Friday, January 19, 2018
art internet gardening entertaiment film fashion music food
Weekend
SAIL AWAY STYLES Page 14 & 15
Heart of the sea Launching a kids adventure Books, page 12 ALIV is an absolute example of good service
- Stephen Dean
Asst. Senior Commissioner of Police
bealiv.com
02 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, January 19, 2018
entertainment
Organ master to play 18th annual recital “Once (training commences) it becomes a lifetime of learning. Most reasonably talented persons can play the organ after about 10 years of organ training.”
By FELICITY INGRAHAM
O
rgan music can sound absolutely sublime to the ears. Many believe, if played correctly, the organ sounds can serve as a blessing for the heart and have a calming effect on the soul. For those who share this sentiment, you don’t want to miss an opportunity to hear noted Bahamian organist Dr Sparkman Ferguson. On Thursday, January 25, Dr Ferguson will be featured at Christ Church Cathedral’s annual Epiphany recital for the 18th year in a row. Annual recitals began 19 years ago and Dr Ferguson joined a year later, serving as a fixture on the programme ever since, much to the delight of faithful attendees. Hundreds flock to the cathedral each year to hear the accomplished organist. It is described as a classical/ sacred organ presentation and runs over 60 minutes. “The purpose of the event is to share the glory of the organ with music lovers,” said Dr Ferguson, a dental clinician and member of the Bahamas Dental Council. Dr Ferguson has also tried to reach beyond his professional capacity to share his talent with others, inspiring those who listen and providing tangible help for students in need of all the support they can get. “Its a dying art,” Dr Ferguson said, “Few persons have ever had serious organ training in this country.” For this reason, his recital also stands as a testament to the beauty of the art and the fact that is still has some relevance in today’s world, he explained. Dr Ferguson will feature the music of several composers during his performance. They include German composer Johann Sebastian Bach, the Belgian composer Flor Peeters, three French composers – Charles-Marie Widor, Olivier Messiaen and Eugene Gigout, and the British composer Ralph Vaughan-Williams.
Dr Sparkman Ferguson
(clockwise) Johann Sebastian Bach, Flor Peeters, CharlesMarie Widor and Ralph Vaughan-Williams are among the composers whose music Dr Sparkman Ferguson will be performing.
His recital performance has benefitted the students of St John’s College and St Anne’s High School over the years. Both schools have received proceeds from the event. It provided the first donation to the St John’s College’s solar car project last year. In years past, both schools received brass instruments, string instruments, a sheet music library, and a piano. Becoming an organist requires a lifetime of training, said Dr Ferugson. It usually starts with piano or keyboard training. “When someone becomes proficient in piano and desires to switch instruments, then the organ training can commence. Once commenced, it becomes a lifetime of learning. Most reasonably talented persons can play the organ after about 10 years of organ training.” This year’s recital, slated for next Thursday, will begin at 7:30pm. There is no admission charge. However, a “free will contribution” taken will be donated to St John’s College’s developing academic programmes.
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Friday, January 19, 2018
Inside Weekend Interview 4-5 Cara Hunt talks to ‘digital nomad’ Damien Forsythe about finding success far from home Film 7 - 9 The Island House beckons movie lovers with second festival, plus “12 Strong” starring Chris Hemsworth reviewed Food 10 - 11 Award-winning chef brings Italy to Baha Mar Books 12 Literacy advocate writes about adventure on the high seas for kids Fashion 13 - 16 ‘Sail Away’ in style, plus Baha Gala makes you ‘stand out, not fit in’ Internet 17 Bahamian businesses get social with online-focused conference Music 18 Artist Philocypha makes ‘grown man’ tunes Gardening 19 Jack Hardy on teas from the garden Art 20 - 21 Baha Mar’s The Current shows diversity in a shared space Literary Lives 22 - 24 The uncensored “Picture of Dorian Gray” Forgotten Facts 25 Paul C Aranha remembers when it snowed in the Bahamas Puzzles 26 Animals 27 A young champion for animals, plus Pet of the Week Cover | Illustration by Arya Gülistan Yildiz
My perfect Bahamian weekend Bigga Tee Artist at MuhBuiyDem Entertainment Q: Saturday breakfast or Sunday lunch?
“I always eat my Sunday dinner around 12pm to 1pm every Sunday, so it has to be Sunday lunch.”
Q: Wine, rum, cocktail or Kalik? “Wine o’ clock, because wine is bottled poetry.”
Q: Beach or sofa?
“The beach, and hopefully there are a few shoals, because I love snorkelling.
Q: What is the one thing that you can’t live without? “My nine-year-old daughter.”
Q: Weekend away, where would you go and why?
“I would go to Exuma or Andros to make some progress on some of the properties I own, because I am a farmer and a natural medicine doctor.”
Things 2 Do this weekend Friday
• Solomon’s Yamacraw Grand Opening 2018
Time: 12noon - 4pm (continues until Sunday) Venue: Solomon’s, Yamacraw Hill Road There will be door prizes, giveaways and product samples.
Saturday
• Project eXterminate the Waste
Time: 8.30am Venue: Marshall Road
Join in the effort to make Marshall Road and ultimately the entire Bahamas green! The event ends when the dumpster is full, Refreshments will be served. This event is sponsored by Bahamas Waste. • Portfolio Workshop for teens at the NAGB
Time: 4pm Venue: National Art Gallery
This is a free portfolio workshop for aspiring young artists who are applying for entry into college/ university art programmes in 2018 or 2019. This workshop guides participants through the creation of a
successful portfolio and gives helpful tips on the application process. • Benefit Concert for Linda Eldon
Time: 7.30pm - 2am Venue: Pirate Republic Brewing Co
Raise funds to help offset Linda Eldon’s medical expenses. Good times will be had by all featuring tunes by the Charlestown Boys and Skylarkin’. Tickets available to purchase in advance for $20 or at the door. Contact Nancy at 359-1231 to purchase tickets. If you cannot attend the event but would still like to make a donation please visit Linda’s Generosity page: https://www.generosity.com/ medical-fundraising/linda-s-journey. • Pineapple Down Live
Time: 9.30pm Venue: Compass Point Beach Resort Pineapple Down will be performing live in concert. The night promises to be a musiccal explosion. The show is free. • Costume Launch Euphoria Madness 2018
Time: 10pm
Venue: Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Paradise Island It’s the official kick-off to the 2018 Carnival season with Euphoria Madness’ free ‘Exotic Birds’ costume launch party. Come out and see who will be the ‘flyest’ on the road this year.
Sunday
• Learn Archery in the Bahamas
Time: 2.30pm Venue: St Paul’s Field, Lyford Cay
Bahamas Archery offers archery instruction, training, club membership and archery equipment supply and maintenance for individuals and schools throughout Nassau. For detailed information, visit bahamasarchery.com. • Hearthstone Bahamas Fireside
Time: 7.30pm - 10pm Venue: Outback Bahamas
It’s 2018 and this is the first Fireside of the year. Get the hero Nemsy Necrofizzle by joining the “Hearthstone – Heroes of Warcraft”. The players in the Bahamas are looking to create a community to help develop other players and also have fun.
04 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, January 19, 2018
interview The internet has opened up the world to Bahamians. Taking advantage of all the 21st telecommunication innovations, Damien Forsythe tells Cara Hunt how he has embarked on a new and fulfilling life as a digital nomad, travelling the world and working from remote locations. He encourages others to join him on this exciting adventure.
Damien Forsythe
A
fter spending 10 years working for corporate Bahamas, Damien Forsythe knew that he was ready for a change. He wanted a chance to see the world, but not as a tourist. Instead, the e-commerce expert changed his career focus to become a “digital nomad”, which afforded him the opportunity to live and work in some of the most exotic locales all over the world. So-called digital nomads are professionals who use telecommunications technologies to earn a living and, more generally, conduct their life in a nomadic manner. Such people often work remotely from foreign countries, coffee shops, public libraries, co-working spaces, or even recreational vehicles. It is a lifestyle Damien stumbled upon by chance after an extended vacation turned into a new career.
“I have learned that I really have discovered the importance of freedom, seeing the world outside of the routine… anyone can travel, people do it every day, but this is becoming a part of a new culture.”
After attending university in Canada, Damien received a business and e-commerce degree from the University of News Brunswick and returned home where he spent a decade working in corporate jobs in the Bahamas. He realised that he wanted a different life than working all year round with only two months vacation a year. He decided that he wanted a change of pace and a new experience, and so he used his savings to travel the world. He left the corporate world last January and has spent the last year travelling throughout Asia and Indonesia, including Japan, China, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia and Bali. The trip was originally supposed to be just a few months, but has since extended to over a year. However, don’t call Damien a “tourist.” He explained to Tribune Weekend that although he has travelled extensively, his experience as a digital nomad is more than just racking
up frequent flyer miles or being constantly in motion just to being to boast on social media all the places he has been. Instead he said it is all about becoming immersed in a culture while at the same time being an employee of the world. “This has really been a professional journey as well as a personal one. It’s not like someone who is backpacking through Europe primarily for pleasure,” he said. For the past several months, Damien has been based in Bali, a country he says has a deep spiritual balance and fits many of the criteria of a location perfect for conducting business digitally. “You want somewhere where the cost of living is relatively low, where it is safe, and where there is ease of doing business – such as strong Wi-Fi connection, a strong social community and support staff facility, and a strong professional base,” he said.
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Friday, January 19, 2018
While Damien does not speak any foreign languages, he said it is usually not a deterrent because in many of the cites favoured by digital nomads English is in frequent use. “It is not something that has ever hampered me and should not be something that discourages you,” he said. While based in Bali, Damien has been doing consulting work for several international companies based in Australia, the UK and the US. He also conducts workshops and training sessions. During his time there, he has found support at the Out Post Bali, a facility designed to be a base for digital nomads. The facility features 600 square metres of indoor, garden and deck space for co-working. It supplies offices, Skype rooms and a reliable internet connection. It also has living spaces persons can rent. Damien admits that that the nomadic lifestyle may not be for everyone, but
“You want somewhere where the cost of living is relatively low, where it is safe, and where there is ease of doing business.” for those who want the ability to experience a new culture while still being able to draw a salary independently, it can be a fabulous way of life. Of course, he said, the lifestyle demands many practical considerations. “You have to have a way to generate income remotely, such as graphic design or e-commerce, and you have to be able to be social enough to make your living and to fully experience the location. You also have to be focused and dedicated because you are not on vacation, work is work no matter where you are or no matter how exotic or beautiful the location,” he said,
Throughout his journey, Damien said he has learned several valuable lessons. “I have learned that I value flexibility more than I realised,” he said. “I have learned that I really have discovered the importance of freedom, seeing the world outside of the routine … anyone can travel, people do it every day, but this is becoming a part of a new culture. There is a stronger connection.” One of the biggest challenges and frustrations of his nomadic existence, of course, is the considerable physical distance from home. “That was why I came home for the holidays, because I need that physical
connection with my family and friends,” he said of his visits to the Bahamas. While he is content to remain in Bali for a while, the beauty of the lifestyle he has chosen is that there is a whole world of options out there when deciding where to go next. Damien said that the beauty of Asia and Indonesia has blown him away, and noted that one of the places he is keen to visit if not work in is Dubai. “On a personal level, I am impressed with how developed and diverse Dubai is,” he said. Damien added that he is sharing his experiences with others because he feels that this lifestyle can work for many young Bahamians who are looking for a unique experience where they can still utilise their talents. “I would love for people to hit me up, and I would be glad to meet up with them, should they find themselves in this part of the world,” he said.
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Friday, January 19, 2018
section
MOBILE
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Take us with you Everywhere you go!
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Friday, January 19, 2018
film
review
Hemsworth leads a solid wartime film in ‘12 Strong’ 12 STRONG RUNNING TIME: 130 MINS
I
n the days and months following the September 11 attacks, a small US Special Forces unit led an offensive against the Taliban and Al Qaeda in Afghanistan. They worked in harsh conditions alongside a local warlord and his men, an uneasy alliance at best, and, even with all the technology and money of the US military, executed the successful mission largely on horseback. The operation — Task Force Dagger — was classified for years and explored later in Doug Stanton’s 2009 book “Horse Soldiers: The Extraordinary Story of a Band of US Soldiers who Rode to Victory in Afghanistan.” It provides the basis for “12 Strong,” a long-in-the-works adaptation from producer Jerry Bruckheimer (”Black Hawk Down”) and director Nicolai Fuglsig, a Danish photojournalist who has shot the War in Kosovo, a Levi’s short film, and a Coca-Cola spot in his eclectic career. Films about US military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan have a somewhat dicey track record. They can veer from too sentimental to too macho and bloviating depending on who’s in front of and behind the camera. But “12 Strong” is, while perhaps not the deepest entry, a very solid movie with an engaging story, script and cast led by Thor himself, Chris Hemsworth. Only slightly camouflaged behind a modern haircut and some manicured stubble, Hemsworth is Captain Mitch Nelson, who is on leave with his young daughter and wife (played by his reallife spouse Elsa Pataky) but springs into action at the sight of the World Trade Center falling on the news. He
Chris Hemsworth leads the charge as Captain Mitch Nelson
PHOTO/NAME NAME
DAVID JAMES/WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT VIA AP
raises his hand to assemble a team and get over to Afghanistan as soon as possible. Before that happens, however, we must sit through another obligatory farewell-to-the-families sequence to remind us that many of these guys have wives and children to get back to. It’s when the men get to the Middle East that the film becomes truly gripping, thanks to an ominous score, a hair-raising helicopter ride that rivals
moments in Kathryn Bigelow’s “Zero Dark Thirty,” and the inherent tension of a mission that, as Nelson puts it, has no playbook. Their task is to meet up with General Abdul Rashid Dostum (an excellent Navid Negahban) who may be equally motivated to fight the Taliban if properly persuaded. Dostum and Nelson form a tenuous bond that is tested throughout the film, as they trade the shield of modern technology for horses and mules to cross
the treacherous landscape. The action sequences are riveting, if a little numbing at times, and their evolving mission is engaging throughout. What separates “12 Strong” from the pack, however, is its ability to introduce and stay with a band of brothers worth caring about. In addition to Hemsworth, they are played by Michael Shannon, Michael Pena, Trevante Rhodes, Geoff Stults, Thad Luckinbill, Austin Stowell, Ben O’Toole, Austin
08 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, January 19, 2018
film
The Island House beckons movie lovers By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
T
he Island House Film Festival is back for its second year with an eclectic collection of films, panel discussions and workshops for movie enthusiasts and industry professionals. The festival will take place at the Island House Cinema from Wednesday, January 24, to Sunday, January 28. Among the films which can be viewed are the highly acclaimed “Cargo” by Bahamian filmmaker Kareem Mortimer, the documentary “Dina” about an autistic couple which won the Sundance US Documentary Grand Jury Prize, the family special “Swallows and Amazons”, and the Critics Choice Independent Spirit Award and the Golden Globe-nominated film “Call Me by My Name”. The festival will also include the New Providence premiere of the award-winning “The Florida Project” which was recently shown in Harbour Island. The Island House Film Festival (TIHFF) will partner with Bahamas Artist Movement to host two morning workshops for local high school students between the ages of 13 and 18, providing them insight into the world of acting and theatre performance. Other workshops include “How to Obtain an Agent” with Thor Bradwell, “How to Finance a Passion Project”, “Documentary Filmmaking” with Charlie Rose, “The State of Filmmaking in the Bahamas”, and an intensive film and television workshop with Evelyn Vacarro, who is known for her work on “Dead Seasons”, “Absolute Madness” and “Salsa Lessons”. Participants in that workshop will benefit from Evelyn’s 20 years in the film industry and learn about the dos and don’ts of the industry. The festival rounds off with two parties – a Salsa party on the Friday and a “Bahamas Best Film” celebration on the Saturday. TIHFF is is an independent non-competitive film festival in The Bahamas. It celebrates and focuses on films and filmmakers that emerge from the Caribbean region, celebrating Bahamian premieres of international, regional and local narrative films and documentaries. The vision is to encourage the production of films in the Bahamas, to empower local practitioners and educators in the field, as well as adding to the rich culture in the Bahamas by presenting quality foreign and local films in an intimate setting. Organisers behind the film festival include Kareem Mortimer, Lauren Holowesko, Will McKechnie and Stephane Cathelin.
“The Florida Project”
“Swallows and Amazons”
“Green Days by the River”
“Breathe”
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Films at the Island House Film Festival 2018 (Tickets are $10 dollars each and must be booked in advance at www.tihff. com) Bad Lucky Goat (Family outdoor screening) Date: Thursday, January 25 Time: 6pm After accidentally killing a bearded goat with their father’s truck, two incompatible siblings in their teenage years embark on a journey of reconciliation. Corn and Rita must find a way to repair the truck in time to pick up the tourists that will be staying at their family’s hotel. As they struggle to find the means necessary to conceal the accident, the siblings will visit a butcher, Rastafari drum makers, a pawn shop and even a witch doctor, in a 24-hour adventure around Port Paradise. The film is directed by Bogota, Colombiabased Samir Oliveros. Dina Date: Thursday, January 25 Time: 6pm The challenges inherent in preparing for marriage are amplified in “Dina”, an affecting documentary about an autistic couple – an eccentric suburban woman and a Walmart door-greeter – who discover that their condition complicates their commitment to one another. Winner of Sundance’s US Documentary Grand Jury Prize, this fragile, frank film chronicles its subjects with stripped-down intimacy, which can sometimes border on feeling like simple gawking. But it’s impossible not to care deeply about these anxious lovebirds, especially as we begin to understand the obstacles threatening their relationship. When God Sleeps Date: Thursday, January 25 Time: 8.30pm This documentary tells the story of Iranian musician Shahin Najafi who is forced into hiding after hardline clerics issue a fatwa for his death, incensed by a rap song that focuses on the oppression of women and human rights abuses. Shah’s frantic escape leads to an impossible romance when he falls in love with the granddaughter of the first Prime Minister of the Islamic
“Call Me By Your Name”
Republic of Iran. The film’s German director Sara Nodjomi and producer Till Schauder will be in attendance for a Q&A following the screening. Breathe Date: Friday, January 26 Time: 12noon This is inspiring true love story of Robin and Diana Cavendish, an adventurous couple who refuse to give up in the face of a devastating disease. Their heartwarming celebration of human possibility marks the directorial debut of Andy Serkis, who is best known for his performance capture roles comprising motion capture acting, animation and voice work in “The Lord of the Rings” film trilogy, the “Planet of the Apes” reboot series, the “Stars Wars” movies “The Force Awakens” and “The Last Jedi”, among films. Cargo Date: Friday, January 26 Time: 3pm A Bahamian fisherman with a gambling addiction in Nassau takes a job smuggling Haitians to Florida in a desperate ploy to support his family. Director and writer Kareem Mortimer and producer Alexander Younis will be in attendance for a Q&A following the screening. Swallows and Amazons (Family outdoor screening) Date: Friday, January 26 Time: 6pm Four children (the Swallows) are on holiday in the Lake District. They sail on their own to an island and start a war with rival children (the Amazons). In the meantime, a mysterious man on a houseboat accuses them of a crime they did not commit. The film is based on beloved children’s book series “Swallows and Amazons” by English author Arthur Ransome.
The Florida Project Date: Friday, January 26 Time: 8pm Set over one summer, the film follows precocious six-year-old Moonee as she courts mischief and adventure with her ragtag playmates and bonds with her rebellious but caring mother, all while living in the shadows of Disney World. The film as received international critical acclaim and stars Willem Defoe. Lead actress Bria Vignette will be in attendance for a Q&A following the screening. Green Days by the River Date: Saturday, January 27 Time: 11am In a remote village in 1952 Trinidad, a curious boy pursues the affection of two girls. Despite his ailing father’s advice, Shell follows the compassionate Mr Gidharee to work on his plantation along the river, in hopes of attracting his daughter Rosalie, but then falls for Joan, a sweet, sensible girl from the city. From the love triangle that ensues, Shell learns bittersweet lessons of life and love that will define his manhood and future forever. Writer and director Michael Mooleedhar and producer Christian James will be in attendance for a Q&A after the screening. The Price of Memory Date: Saturday, January 27 Time: 2.30pm Queen Elizabeth II is petitioned by a small group of Rastafari for slavery reparations whilst visiting Jamaica for her Golden Jubilee Celebrations. This documentary follows the petition and a reparations lawsuit, whilst exploring the enduring legacies of slavery in Jamaica and the Rastafarian quest to return to Africa. Director Karen Marks Mafundikwa will be in attendance for a Q&A. A Blue Bird in My Heart
Date: Saturday, January 27 Time: 5.30pm An old jailbird aspiring to live a quiet remote life is given a rude awakening when the daughter of the woman he shelters is a victim of aggression. Writer and director Jérémie Guez and producers Julien Madon and Stephane Cathelin will be in attendance for a Q&A following the screening. The Cutlass Date: Saturday, January 27 Time 8.30pm Inspired by true events, “The Cutlass” is a dramatic thriller set in the tropical wilderness of Trinidad and tells the story of a young woman who falls into the grasp of a dangerous sociopath. She finds herself isolated and musters the courage to emotionally battle the unsettled mind of her abductor. Producer Drew Umland will be in attendance for a Q&A after the screening. Jeffrey Date: Sunday, January 28 Time: 12noon Twelve-year-old Jeffrey’s mother wakes him not for school but to clean windshields in traffic to pay the rent, as he’s done for six years. His older brother sings reggaetón, and – anxious to break free of their crushing poverty – he hopes to follow suit as “Jeffrey the Nightmare”. Writer and director Yannillys Perez will be in attendance for a Q&A following the screening. What Lies Upstream Date: Sunday, January 28 Venue: 2pm In this classic detective story, investigative filmmaker Cullen Hoback travels to West Virginia to uncover the truth behind a massive chemical spill that left 300,000 people without drinking water for months. But when Hoback discovers an obscene collusion between chemical corporations and the highest levels of government, the investigation spirals in a terrifying direction, and we learn the frightening truth about what lies upstream of us all. Producer John Ramos will be in attendance for a Q&A following the screening. Call Me By Your Name Date: Sunday January 28 Time: 5.30pm This possible Oscar contender is set in northern Italy in 1983. Seventeenyear-old Elio begins a relationship with visiting Oliver, his father’s research assistant, with whom he bonds over his emerging sexuality, their Jewish heritage, and the beguiling Italian landscape.
10 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, January 19, 2018
food
Award-winning chef brings Italy to Baha Mar By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net
I
t was an evening to remember last Friday, as the sbe lifestyle hospitality company celebrated the opening of the Fi’lia restaurant by Michael Schwartz at the SLS Baha Mar. The event attracted close to 300 people, including Bahamas Tourism and Aviation Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar and Sebastien Silvestri, senior vice president of Food and Beverage, Hotel Division, at sbe, VIP guests and media. They all gathered in the SLS Monkey Bar lounge area for a champagne welcome. Afterwards, they were directed to proceed to Fi’lia’s main entrance located on the Baha Mar casino floor. A short ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by Graeme Davis, president of Baha Mar, Daniel del Olmo, CEO of the Disruptive Restaurant Group, and Chef Michael Schwartz garnered a round of applause. Then, the guest were able to mingle and enjoy the various food stations set up throughout the space as well as treats passed around on trays. “I love the fact that all of these new restaurants are opening and becoming available,” one guest told Tribune Weekend, explaining the need for more dining options in the Bahamas. “I love dining on the town. I have my favourites here and there, but there is always room for more, especially for those that enjoy dating, and for those lovers
Chef Michael Schwartz, winner of the James Beard Award for excellence in cuisine, at the opening of Fi’lia.
looking forward to things to do for the upcoming Valentine’s Day rush. The more options we have available in Nassau, the less hectic it will be in getting a reservation.” Another guest took note of the atmosphere in the room, saying the whole scenery at Baha Mar and the SLS creates “a vibe” that makes persons want to come back for more. “It is fun, it is safe; it makes you feel like you took a flight out just for the day or night, but at the same time you are still enjoying a great time out right in your backyard. Whether I want to dine inside or feel the sun on my back while outside, I can see Fi’lia being that go-to place for an escape. I will definitely be back in a different capacity,” said the patron.
The newest venue at the Baha Mar resort, and sbe’s newest addition to its Disruptive Restaurant Group portfolio in the Bahamas, the Fi’lia restaurant features 202 seats of indoor and outdoor seating with a rustic Italian vibe. The atmosphere comes together through design elements such as whitewashed
brick walls, brasserie inspired lighting, a mix of traditional and modern leather chairs, and an artwork collection featuring sketches, abstract paintings and brightly coloured photography. Tying it all together, are marble and grey oak tables which provide the high-quality finishing touches.
This is Fi’lia’s first international outpost and second location overall after opening at SLS Brickell in Miami last year. Fi’lia is inspired by the simplicity of Italian cuisine, featuring a menu of straightforward dishes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, house-made pasta and memorable signatures like the table-side Caesar salad. “This isn’t my first time experiencing a Fi’lia restaurant. I tried the Miami location at Brickell so I expected nothing less than a lifestyle experience tonight. The pasta and pizza are must-haves, but I am going to taste a little bit of everything right now,” said one guest. Fi’lia’s dinner menu features small, large and extra large plates alongside snacks, sides, pasta and pizza. Menu picks also include the beef carpaccio; the extra large grilled whole snapper with tomato, Calabrian chile, mint and
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Friday, January 19, 2018
PHOTOS: TERREL W. CAREY/ TRIBUNE STAFF
Restaurant opening at SLS.
grilled bread. Pizzas are served with creative topping combinations like pistachio pesto with ricotta, charred onion and pecorino, and the table-side Caesar salad is prepared from scratch, from the dressing to the grated parmigiano finish, on a roaming cart. Of course there are also cocktails to sip and enjoy. For example, “The Mistaken”, offers a lively take on the traditional Negroni aperitivo which features Campari and Carpano Antica sweet vermouth, substituting bubbly Prosecco for gin. Meanwhile the wine list at Fi’lia celebrates Italian, regional varieties and American wines with an Old World sensibility. The restaurant is currently open Monday through Sunday, from 11.30am to 2am, serving lunch and dinner. Fi’lia’ is one of six culinary and entertainment venues to open at Baha Mar. It joins Cleo, Katsuya, the Monkey Bar, the Bungalow Pool Bar and Grill and the Bond nightclub. As part of sbe’s larger movement to bring signature specialties in innovative cuisine and dynamic nightlife to the Bahamas, the group plans to open Privilege, a “Daylife” pool concept, and Skybar, the first rooftop bar in Nassau, in the next few months.
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Friday, January 19, 2018
books
“Nauticalls” offers adventure on the high seas for kids By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
The story of “Nauticalls” is accompanied by art from noted Turkish illustrator Arya Gülistan Yildiz.
T
he amusing antics of her young son are the inspiration behind a new and colourful children’s book by a noted Bahamian literacy
advocate. Beverley Turnquest, who formerly operated The Children’s Place and The Children’s Library, has written and is about to release her first book, “Nauticalls, Caerwyn and The Heart of the Sea”, a whimsical tale of a little boy who takes to the high seas in search of a future career. “I have always been into books,” said Mrs Turnquest, who has worked to promote youth literacy in the Bahamas for more than a decade. She has completed a number of projects, including starting Gliterature, a children’s magazine, “Hooked on Books”, an annual Spring camp which she created to encourage students to enjoy reading, and publishing the book “Relit – The Great Retelling”. “We did a project with some of the children where they interviewed their grandparents and then we published the stories in the book which was a collection of short Bahamian folklore stories, retold and written by children featuring mermaids, impish chickcharney’s lore, a sea monster, a wicked stepmother, ghosts, and the very dishonourable Bouki and Rabbi characters,” Mrs Turnquest told Tribune Weekend. Fast-forward to the birth of her son Caerwyn, and she is once again inspired to put pen to paper. “I was a first-time parent and I remember being so surprised when I heard my son say an empathetic ‘No’ and I said, “Oh, naughty is not calling you. For his birthday, I had him and my godchildren do a nautical inspired photoshoot and the idea for the book eventually grew.”
Caerwyn, Beverley Turnquest’s young son, inspired her to write a children’s book.
“The book’s title, “Nauticalls”, is a play of the expression “naughty is not calling you” and the word nautical, and the fact that the story takes place at sea,” she explained. In the story, a young sailor named Caerwyn embarks on an exciting adventure. It is the tale of a boy whose reflection was stolen by the second wave to the west and the consequence was that he caught a fever for the sea. He sets sail to find the elusive Heart of the Sea with a boatful of nice and nautical friends, while trying out a few marine roles along the way. Together they find a wonder, a treasure and a truth. At the end of the journey Caerywn discovers that what he most wants is to be happy. “The book is reminiscent of ‘Peter Pan and the Lost Boys’, with a mix of real life and fantasy characters. It mirrors a few aspects of Peter Pan also; instead of mischievous children you will find them all well behaved, instead of
being lost, they are finding, and instead of fairy dust, the magic is in a wish, a prayer and a prophesied date,” said the author. Originally, Mrs Turnquest said she wanted the book to be a birthday present for her son. It was intended for him only and was to feature the images from his birthday photoshoot. However, as the project developed, she decided that she wanted to share it with other children as well. As a result the book will now feature drawings by noted Turkish illustrator Arya Gülistan Yildiz – a graduate of the Dokuz Eylul Fine Arts Faculty. “I think that it is a book that can be enjoyed by children all over the world because it highlights diversity and the natural resources of the Bahamas,” said Mrs Turnquest. “Nauticalls, Caerwyn and The Heart of the Sea” will be available in stores and online later this Spring.
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fashion
Illuminating individuality By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net
“D
on’t fit in, stand out” is the idea behind the homegrown Baha Gala jewellery brand. For Tenisha Erskin-Carey, founder of Baha Gala, following a trend was never her thing; she always set her own course – an action that led her to create her own company offering “unforgettable, intriguing and stunning” jewellery. A published poet, songwriter, photographer, fashion model, clothing and interior designer, Tenisha said her work on this line embodies “a unique, effervescent, cultural fashion”. Since establishing Baha Gala in 2003, which is located in the Castaways Resort Hotel and Suites in Freeport, she has specialised in handcrafted pieces made from materials such as shells, seeds, corals, turquoise and semi-precious stones, fresh water pearls, and even sand. “My designs have been crafted to stand alone, and I’m sure you’ll agree that once adorned with the breathtaking jewellery by Baha Gala you will certainly illuminate a crowd and become your own fashionista,” said Tenisha. Throughout the years, Tenisha said, Baha Gala has remained true to its original vision: to create jewellery that touches the soul and warms the heart as much as it delights the eye; to create handcrafted designs in accordance with the highest quality standards, and to set the Bahamas apart from other tourist destinations. “Beauty and artistry explode around us. There’s décor in our surrounding landscapes; it’s in the ocean, it’s in the trees, it’s in the air, it’s in everyday people. Life is a beautiful design and I’ve always wanted to be a part of that design. Growing up, I’ve always said, I was born to beautify the world. Fashion is ever-changing, it’s evolving, it’s exciting. There is art in every form of fashion,” she said. Baha Gala releases new designs on a monthly basis, and Tenisha said one of the company’s most unique features is
that it allows clients to customise their purchases, from necklaces and bracelets, to rings, cufflinks and earrings. “Whatever the category, Baha Gala will continue to offer affordable luxury, as this is key to our ongoing success,” said Tenisha. “The encouraging personal messages, e-mails and phone calls from clients have been so rewarding, so inspiring. I cannot emphasise enough how proud it makes me to be Bahamian. We are presently in talks with major fashion chains to bring Baha Gala to a larger international market. It is my dream to take 242 to the world.”
Upcoming plans and Baha Gala 2018 highlights include an opening of two additional locations in Freeport. Nassau and Abaco clients will also be excited to know that Baha Gala jewellery will soon be available at special locations throughout their islands. Further, Tenisha is looking forward to a collaboration with Amazon Handmade, which will give the company an unprecedented level of exposure, and availability at the Baha Mar Resort. “To all my BG butterflies, your love and support throughout the years has been a testament to my work. I appreciate you. I applaud you for allowing this little girl’s dream to come to pass. Thank you for allowing me to adorn your lives, thank you for buying and believing in Bahamian, thank you for being you for embarking on this journey with me,” said Tenisha. For more on Baha Gala, visit www. bahagala.com or https://www.facebook.com/BahaGalaJewelry.
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Friday, January 19, 2018
celebrity With Karin Herig and Cara Hunt
SPLIT
FAIL
SPLIT
SPLIT
HIT
Halle Berry ”Kingsman: The Golden Circle”
Danai Gurira ”Black Panther”
Rutina Wesley ”Queen Sugar”
Ava DuVernay ”A Wrinkle in Time”
Karin says: “If she could tone down the overly large ruffle on her chest this dress would be awesome. It’s a sweet little 80s white dress with cool seams featuring pearl studs. But the ruffles are just too much. Ah well, she’ll have many more chances to shine on the red carpet this season.” Cara says: “This dress has just way too much going on. It wants to be sweet with the ruffled top, edgy with the studs, and flirty with the tiered hemlines. I like it in parts, but as a whole dress, it just seems a bit much.”
Karin says: “I’ve loved Rutina since ‘True Blood’, so it dismays to call this a fail. But a fail it is. It just looks like a cheap prom dress. It’s ill-fitting and doesn’t look like it was sewn together with any care. However, the royal blue is really pretty one her.” Cara says: “First let me say that I think this blue and white combo is really pretty. I love people mixing it up with a pattern as it’s a way to stand out on the red carpet. That being said, I just wish the top was a little more tailored, but I like it overall.”
Karin says: “I always feel like Ava wants to hide herself under miles of fabric, and this is no exception. She certainly has a signature style. The wine colour is gorgeous, the design of the jumpsuit is interesting, and I love her hair, I just wish she would get out of her comfort zone a bit.” Cara says: “This outfit is perfect for Ava. It’s a bit whimsical like her, but at the same time very fashionable. I am always a fan of her braids and this little half up-do is super cute.
Samira Wiley ”The Handmaid’s Tale”
Karin says: “Before we get to the dress, this hairdo is just not doing Halle any favours. Now, as for the gown, I get she wanted to be sexy, but this is just horribly structured. A step to the right, a sway to left, and we’re left to wonder how much Halle is willing to expose. I hope she’s wearing some good nude coloured undies.” Cara says: “Obviously Halle still has that awesome flat stomach and she is rocking this dress. I dunno, I still feel like it’s border line a bit too risqué for me. It would have still been cute with a bit more coverage.”
PHOTO BY RICHARD SHOTWELL/INVISION/AP
The Weekend Fashion Report NAACP Image Awards
Karin says: “Samira just has that star power. She’s been killing every red carpet she’s stepped out on. The chartreuse colour is stunning on her. It’s just a simple cut with a subtle pattern, but it makes a big statement; no other bling needed. And I love the 1920s inspired wave in her hair.” Cara says: “Where is the heart eyes emoji when you need it? This is gorgeous; the colour against her skin, the detail on the fabric and the vintage inspired hair. She looks simply beautiful.”
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Friday, January 19, 2018
internet
Bahamian businesses get social By FELICITY INGRAHAM
W
hen great minds come together, phenomenal things can happen. That’s exactly what went down at Let’s Get Social 242 – a social media conference that successfully brought together some of the Bahamas’ best in innovative social media marketing and management. Valdez K Russell created the event to bring together Bahamian businesses, big and small, to discuss best practices, share new insights, and help one another be more savvy social media users. Let’s Get Social 242’s aim was to open the eyes of those in attendance to the latest trends in social media. Even the most successful companies represented said they benefitted from the information and technology shared at the conference, which was held at the Meliá Nassau Beach Resort last Tuesday. Mr Russell, a social media expert himself, thought to bring together professionals from various realms of technology Among the presenters was Derek Newbold, senior manager of Business Development for the Grand Bahama Port Authority. He shared his knowledge concerning the benefits of the free trade zone of Freeport under the management of the GBPA. For new entrepreneurs, Mr Newbold said, the process of attaining a business licence is effortless and well-supported by his team. Duty free concessions for businesses means a lower cost of doing business and a higher rate of success, he said. The benefits also get passed on the employees of the new business in personal and professional areas. He also shared the success of the GBPA’s social media plan, including an internet talk show, which gives persons a chance to raise questions and leave comments as the port seeks to bring in new members and help existing ones become even more successful. Yolanda Darville, a storyteller, focused on the conference-goers themselves by asking them to clearly define who they are and what they represent on social media. She provided them with key tips to telling great stories on
Let’s Get Social 242 organiser Valdez K Russell
Yolanda Darville shares social media success stories
Lincoln Deal II shares tips on how to share personal stories online social media, which is totally different from telling their story on other media platforms. By properly engaging viewers and subscribers, Ms Darville said, businesses stand a higher chance of getting the buy-in from the public that truly spells social media success. Megan Minus wowed the crowd with her presentation, showing them how lights, colours and sound really affect social media followers. A proper presentation means the difference between followers who feel invested in the business, and those who were not moved by the businesses’ post at all, she said. Her background in design has allowed her
to find creative ways to make the most unique posts for businesses – tips she passed to others together with her colleagues at the conference. Shawn A Forbes, author and attorney, proved that business owners can jump on the social media bandwagon at any age. He encouraged even senior individuals to take the time to learn how important social media is to the success of their business and gain some fundamental skills towards it. He called for businesses to consider the following questions: “Who am I? Why am I here? How do I want to use my voice and why should it matter?”
Jacqueline Haarsma, global communications specialist at FleishmanHillard Public Relations & Digital Marketing Agency, motivated the crowd with her presentation. All throughout her presentation, she conducted live polls to show how instant and effective polling is in the social media market. She encouraged social media representatives of the various businesses to “stop random acts of marketing” and get specific with followers. Instead of adopting an “I feel like making a post now” attitude, come up with a specific plan and look at the end result you want before you even begin, she advised. This was backed by Mr Russel, owner of VKR Insights, who encouraged attendees to set an entire annual calendar for social media posting from the start. Burton Wallace, a local media mogul, shared information about new technology that is revolutionising social media. He showed the importance of videos and the fact that they often result in a greater amount of engagement and interest from viewers. Mr Wallace also gave examples of live TV via the internet and revealed the changes that will usher in a new era in social media. Tanya McCartney of the Bahamas Financial Services Board kept the crowd upbeat with her personality, and shared what she learned at Let’s Get Social 242. She revealed that BFSB is placing more emphasis on social media, and encouraged the public service and corporate Bahamas to utilise the tools of technology even better towards their overall success. Meanwhile, Lincoln Deal II, a young entrepreneur already running a group of companies, shared his personal success story. In the realm of social media, he has learned that telling your personal story is just as important as telling your professional one. Once you are careful and selective in the way you share your personal story, he said, you will find that followers become emotionally attached and are even inspired to share their own stories as well. Let’s Get Social 242 attendees networked and shared contacts. They posted live during the conference and found individual success on their social media pages based on the prompts from each presenter. They are now calling for VKR Insights to plan another successful conference in the near future.
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Friday, January 19, 2018
music
Artist spotlight – Philocypha makes ‘grown man music’ By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net
W
ITH goals to one day become an ambassador for the Bahamas and also at the same help to bring about positive change through music, Jessie McQueen is on a mission to make 2018 his year. “I have a need to make music the same way you have the need to breathe. The reception of those who hear my music can be described in three words – ‘grown man music’. I don’t use profanity in my lyrics, so persons appreciate the fact that the music can be played anywhere, any time. The message is positive, timely and inspirational. The production is far above average,” said the artist who is known in the industry by his stage name Philocypha. His musical journey began when he was just nine years old. Philocypha was taught how to read music and play the alto saxophone by local jazz icon “Duke” Errol Strachan. He later became a member of the Duke’s National Youth Orchestra during from 1993 to 1998, where he learned musical discipline, showmanship and various types of music genres and techniques. Philocypha said he is inspired by an eclectic list of famous artists, from Tupac Shakur to Michael Jackson, Mozart to Notorious B I G, Kanye West to Henry Mancini, as well as Jay Z, Chris Brown, Charlie Parker, Lil Wayne, Beyoncé, John Coltrane, Dr Dre, The Neptunes, and Timbaland. “I’ve been performing and been involved with music all my life. My best friend who had developed himself into a prolific producer gave me my first beat in college. I wrote my first song and have been
writing ever since. I’ve worked with a lot of artists and producers on songs for myself and for others. My goals for this year are to continue to take my music to another level. To get the exposure and recognition for my music production and writing skills; to reestablish positive influences and creativity in youths for all arts, and to show the world the effect music can have when used efficiently,” he said. In a collaboration with fellow rap artist Barz Noble, Philocypha’s recent mix tape called “21/7” features fan favourites such as “One Night Stand,” “Hail Mary” and “Perfect World.” “It’s a mix tape full of nostalgic beats with real and honest lyrics that take you back to when word play and substance in music was more important than the type of beat used. Moreover, my debut solo EP album entitled ‘Where Do We Go?’ presented by Y A M A is produced by the people at EmpowermediA. The solo EP came to exist as a result of recording the mix tape,” he said. “There were many conversations, emotions and experiences combined with a few beautiful mistakes that all culminated in the birth of ‘Where Do We Go?’ A title that gets the mind going.” He describes “R U 4 Real,” a single from the EP, as a classic 90s R&B undertone track with heavy guitar riffs and a classic female sung hook infused with elements of trap music. He said the inspiration
for this single is stated plainly in its title. Another song entitled “Straight Outta Zion” has a conscience old school reggae riddim feeling to it with new school issues that address concerns in Bahamian society today. Meanwhile, “My Island” is a fusion of Junkanoo, hip-hop and rake n’ scrape. “This infectious, upbeat anthem is for us, about us and by us. This was made to inspire all Bahamian pride and to restore prestige to our status worldwide. The lyrics vividly paint the sun, sand and sea experience as the beat transforms your speakers to the downtown Bay Street – rhythmic, hypnotic, kaleidoscope of sounds and colours called Junkanoo,” said Philocypha. To follow Philocypha’s musical journey on check him out under “philocypha242” on Facebook, as “philocypha” on reverbnation.com and Soundcloud, and on www.empowermediamusic.com/ our-store.
The top 10 songs and albums on the iTunes Store iTunes official music charts for the week ending January 11, 2018: Top Songs 1. Finesse (Remix) (featuring Cardi B), Bruno Mars 2. Filthy, Justin Timberlake 3. Perfect, Ed Sheeran 4. Havana (featuring Young Thug), Camila Cabello 5. Meant to Be (featuring Florida Georgia Line), Bebe Rexha 6. Thunder, Imagine Dragons 7. rockstar (featuring 21 Savage), Post Malone 8. For You (Fifty Shades Freed), Liam Payne & Rita Ora 9. Him & I, G-Eazy & Halsey 10. River (featuring Ed Sheeran), Eminem Top Albums 1. The Greatest Showman (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), Various Artists 2. ÷, Ed Sheeran 3. Revival, Eminem 4. Beautiful Trauma, P!nk 5. Evolve, Imagine Dragons 6. reputation, Taylor Swift 7. Pitch Perfect 3 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), Various Artists 8. DAMN., Kendrick Lamar 9. Life of a Dark Rose, Lil Skies 10. From A Room: Volume 2, Chris Stapleton The Associated Press
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Friday, January 19, 2018
gardening
Teas from your backyard After choosing from a wide array local ingredients, Jack Hardy says it’s time to brew our own tea.
N
ext time you visit your supermarket, stand back and consider how expansive the tea shelves are. Then make a quick assessment of how many teas of the non-Indian/Ceylon/China type feature plants we grow in our Bahamian yards. My guess is about three-quarters. So why are you buying herbal or fruit tea when a fresher, tastier tea is readily available? A tea or tisane is fresh or dried leaves/rinds/roots/barks that have boiling water added and allowed to steep for several minutes. If you buy commercial then you pull out your teabag and drink your tea, sometimes with a sweetener and or milk added. If you make your own tea you pour it into a cup using a small tea strainer. Iced tea is popular and when making larger quantities you can often let the tea steep until it is cold, then strain and refrigerate. Teas made from fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs need a greater amount to give the right flavour, just as a teaspoon of dried herbs means a tablespoon or more of fresh in regular cooking. Virtually everything we grow in our gardens could be made into a tea but this article features teas that are made for good taste. Maybe in the future we can look at bad-tasting teas that are good for you.
Basil tea Let’s start with citrus. Everybody in the Bahamas has access to citrus leaves. If the leaves are left to dry in a shady area for a few days they will dehydrate somewhat without losing their colour. Dehydrated leaves give stronger taste. Lime, lemon, orange and grapefruit leaves can be used separately or in combination, two crumbled and torn leaves to one cup of boiling water then steeped for 10 minutes. If you have access to citrus fruits you can remove the zest from the rind in strips, boil it for 10 minutes, then throw away the water and allow the zest to dry until brittle in a low oven on a cookie sheet. A mixture of leaves and zest gives a pleasant citrus tea that can be sweetened with sugar, honey, stevia or agave. Ginger tea is used as a gastric aid but tastes so good it can stand as a pleasure tea. Grate a teaspoonful of fresh root ginger then add a cupful of boiling water and steep for 10 minutes. If you are making a larger amount for ice tea you can boil 2 tablespoons of shaved or finely sliced ginger in a quart of water for 20 minutes, allow it to cool, then strain. A squeeze of lime juice adds to the flavour. Mint is another gastric aid that tastes too good to leave for just medicinal reasons. There is a choice between peppermint – the better for burps – and spearmint. Tear a handful of leaves and add two cups of boiling water. Muddle
the leaves as you would for a mojito while it cools to drinking temperature. Lemon grass or fever grass makes a lovely lemony tea. Use only the white portion of the stems, usually the lower 3 to 4 inches. Chop and then crush the white stems and add boiling water, allowing a cupful for every teaspoon of mashed stem, then steep for 10 minutes. Now it is off to the herb garden we go. Chamomile is a recognised aid to induce sleep but can also be sipped for its flavour. Four or five flower heads can be used for one cup of tea, steeping for five or more minutes. Honey is the usual sweetener for chamomile and German chamomile is reputedly the finest. Very few herb teas need a sweetener; indeed, we will be tempted to add a pinch of salt instead. A quarter of a teaspoon of Marmite or Vegemite (both vegan approved) can help beef up the flavour. Fennel seeds make a great tea. If you are using seeds from the spice racks of a food store it would be a good idea to warm the seeds in a small saucepan before grinding them using a mortar and pestle. Half a teaspoon of seeds makes one cup of boiled tea. Seep for 10-15 minutes and strain before drinking. We Bahamians love our thyme and thyme tea is great. Chop a good-sized sprig of thyme into pieces for each cup
of tea then add boiling water and steep for 5-10 minutes. For basil tea we must consider the strength of the herb. If you use Genoa basil – the large leaf variety – them a tablespoon of leaves will be needed. For Thai basil half that amount will suffice per cup of tea. Pile basil leaves on top of each other then roll them into a chiffonade and slice the roll thinly with a sharp knife. Steeping time is 5-7 minutes and basil is one herb to which you can add a sweetener. Agave is recommended. For parsley we need the leaves only, not the stalks. Mince the leaves finely and use a quarter cup to each cup of boiling water, steeping for 5 minutes. You can add a squeeze of lemon to parsley and even sweeten it a little. Many other garden herbs can be used to make tea and you can consider herb combinations. Those herbs that usually go together in cooked dishes will combine well in a tea. Once you have made a few herbal teas you will be able to calculate quite easily the amount of herbs you will need, bearing mind their taste intensity. Sage tea is popular in Europe. Chervil (anise flavour), borage (cucumber flavour), and cilantro (sewing machine oil flavour) are all recommended for teas, but should not be mixed with each other.
• For questions and comment e-mail j.hardy@coralwave.com
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Friday, January 19, 2018
art
Diversity in a shared space The Current’s resident artists show at Baha Mar
By NATASCHA VAZQUEZ
A
t the heart of The Current’s programming at Baha Mar is its Artist-in-Residence programme. Artists from a wide array of backgrounds and disciplines have the opportunity to collectively engage their creative process, where a shared studio culture might permeate their practice and inspire growth. Hosting multiple perspectives in a communal space is pivotal in promoting a shift in the way one approaches art-making. The Residency programme, essentially, is a catalyst, trusting that the union of working artists will spark creativity in new and interesting ways. RE:1 showcases works created in The Current Studio by our first artist residents: Kerry China, Janeen Walker and Sue Katz. The artwork generated from the residency and displayed in RE:1 reflects the nature of working in a shared studio space, where different artistic practices cross paths. With this, the overarching theme of the exhibition is the residency itself.
Each artist was strategically chosen for the programme based on the intention of combining individuals working in a variety of styles and mediums. We also attempt to balance well-established artists with those that are emerging, providing an opportunity for new and upcoming artists to saturate themselves with the experience of a seasoned artist. Diversity is an essential pillar of the residency programme.
Kerry China (born 1972 in Canada) is a certified Ashtanga and anti-gravity yoga instructor, contemporary dancer and artist. Her paintings reflect an inherent curiosity for rhythm and movement, using her body to express a type of painterly dance. Ms China creates textures and patterns using everyday objects, reconsidering the use and importance of the mundane. Her works are process-based, focusing
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Friday, January 19, 2018
PHOTOS/ TERREL W CAREY
heavily on the physical outlet of mark-making. Ms China lives and works between Sault Saint Marie, Canada, and Nassau. Janeen Walker (born 1971 in the Bahamas) uses the expressive and gestural technique of acrylic pouring to create both large-scale and intimate paintings that exude the vibrancy of the painting language. She explores the way in which marks are spontaneously created through a collaboration between artist and art material. Ms Walker draws emphasis on each layered pour, exposing them through the transparency of epoxy. Ms Walker studied Art at the University of the Bahamas and has exhibited her work in various solo and group exhibitions. She is currently a practicing artist and the retail and merchandising manager for The Current Art Gallery and Studio at Baha Mar. Sue Katz (born 1962 in Boston) is an assemblage and collage artist working and living in the Bahamas. Through dynamic layering of paper, paint and other found objects, Ms Katz creates stimulating surfaces that capture the viewer, presenting new ways of interpreting and perceiving traditional landscape and portraiture. Oftentimes, the imagery in her work reflect past experiences, highlighting a fleeting era of simplicity, humour and irony. Ms Katz received a BFA in Illustration from the Rhode Island School of Design and has exhibited her work both internationally and locally, including galleries in Illinois, California and Arizona. Ms Katz is currently an artist resident at The Current Gallery and Studio, working towards creating a large-scale installation for the Fairwind exhibition. RE:1 will be on view in The Current until March 7.
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Friday, January 19, 2018
literary lives - dorian gray
The uncensored ‘Dorian Gray’ Sir Christopher Ondaatje investigates and compares the opinions and introductions to a recently published edition of the famous playwright’s enduring philosophical novel.
“O
scar Fingal O’Flahertie Wills Wilde was born in Dublin in 1854 the son of an eminent eye surgeon and a national poetess. He was educated at Trinity College, Dublin and Magdalen College, Oxford. He tried to establish himself as a writer with little success, however, his three volumes of short fiction, The Happy Prince (1888), Lord Arthur Saville’s Crime (1891) and A House of Pomegranates (1891), together with his only novel, “The
Picture of Dorian Gray” (1891) gradually won him a reputation confirmed by the enormous success of his theatrical comedies – Lady Windermere’s Fan (1892), A Woman of No Importance (1893), An Ideal Husband (1895) and The Importance of Being Earnest (1895) – all performed on the West End stage between 1892 and 1895. Wilde’s success however was short-lived. “In 1891 Wilde met and fell extravagantly in love with Lord Alfred Douglas. In 1895, when his success was at its height, Wilde brought an unsuccessful libel action against Douglas’s father the Marquess of Queensberry. Wilde lost the case and two trials later was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for acts of gross indecency. As a result of this experience he wrote The Ballad of Reading Gaol (1898). He was
released from prison in 1897 and went into an immediate self-imposed exile on the Continent. He died in Paris in ignominy in 1900.” The above introductory paragraph is from the Penguin Classic edition of Wilde’s masterpiece “The Picture of Dorian Gray”– a book that still fascinates readers even though it is more than a hundred years after its first publication. The Classic edition, published in 2000, contains a scholarly introduction by Robert Mighall, a former editor of the publishing company, providing us with a new and contemporary judgement of Wilde’s novel, which we are allowed to compare with that of Peter Ackroyd who wrote the introduction to the 1985 edition. Both are conveniently included to the 2000 edition.
Oscar Wilde’s story “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is one of the most brilliant philosophical novels ever written, and was first published by chance when Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle (author of “Sherlock Holmes”) dined with the American publisher, J M Stoddart, who commissioned both men to write a story for Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine. Conan Doyle’s story was “The Sign of Four”, and Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray”. The latter appeared in the July 1890 issue of Lippincott’s. Fearing criticism for publishing an indecent story the editor of Lippincott’s, without Wilde’s knowledge, deleted 500 words from the story. Despite this, the novel was aggressively disparaged by book reviewers for moral reasons, which caused Wilde to revise some of the controversial material and lengthen the story for book publication in April 1891 by Ward, Lock and Company. All of Wilde’s original unedited material eventually appeared in 2011 in an edition published by Harvard University Press. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is the subject of a full-length portrait by Basil Hallward, an artist, who is impressed with Dorian Gray’s beauty. Through Basil Hallward, Dorian Gray meets Lord Henry Wotton and he is soon enthralled by the aristocrat’s hedonistic view that beauty and sensual fulfilment are the only things in life worth pursuing. Dorian Gray then expresses the desire to sell his soul so that the picture will age and fade instead of him. His wish is granted and Dorian Gray pursues a libertine life of a whole variety of amorous experiences while he stays young and beautiful. However, his portrait ages and records every soulcorrupting sin. Towards the end of the story Dorian Gray invites Basil Hallward to see his portrait hidden away in a locked room, and now made hideous by Dorian Gray’s corruption. In anger he blames the artist for his fate, stabs him and kills him. He then blackmails a scientist friend to use his knowledge of chemistry to destroy the body. Later he is responsible for the suicide of a young actress he has deserted. He is then implicated in other scandals and acts of depravity. Finally, realising that only a full confession will absolve him of any
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“The Picture of Dorian Gray” first appeared in the July 1890 issue of Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine The Penguin Classic edition of “The Picture of Dorian Gray” wrongdoing, Dorian Gray destroys the last vestige of his conscience – the portrait – and using the knife with which he murdered Basil Hallward, he stabs the picture. His ensuing horrifying screams and cries of alarm attract passersby and the police who break into the locked room to discover a disfigured old man – withered and decrepit who can only be identified by the rings on his fingers. Beside him is the picture of Dorian Gray, reverted to its original beauty. “The theme of a double life of outward respectability ... while secretly transgressing society’s moral codes is central to the plot of Dorian Gray,” Robert Mighall says. Peter Ackroyd agrees, stating, “The point was that Dorian Gray presented in oblique form an image of the double life which Wilde himself was leading at this time, and there are some critics who believe the book to represent Wilde’s need for confession if not expiation.” Mighall also adds that “Wilde’s novel goes further in blurring the distinctions between high and low, respectable and outcast. For while this supposed affinity between art and criminality, idle hedonism and actual delinquency, would not shock or trouble a large portion of the
respectable and idle classes at the time, Lord Henry Wotton’s rapier wit threatens to indict a much large section of the social spectrum.” Ackroyd adds, “And if Dorian Gray is one of the best narrations of the double life of a Victorian gentleman, so it is also one of the best accounts of the divisions within London itself. As the narrative moves from the dining tables of the rich to the hovels of Whitechapel and Limehouse, Wilde’s descriptive powers lift the book far above the sonorities of his conventional prose; and as we marvel at this, we can see also the burgeoning comedy of Wilde’s dialogue in those scenes where Lord Wotton appears.” Robert Mighall reminds us too that the theme of a young man selling his soul in exchange for eternal youth is not new – as Wilde confesses. It is an idea as old as the hills. But “The Picture of Dorian Gray” offers an intriguing and highly original treatment of this idea principally owing to Wilde’s brilliant conceit of the portrait which masks Dorian Gray’s life. In Horace Walpole’s “The Castle of Otranto” (1764), the figure of Alfonso steps down from his portrait – warning that Manfred’s days at the castle are numbered; and Edgar Allan Poe’s story “The Oval Portrait” (1845) describes the artist’s obsession with capturing an absolute likeness which eventually Continued on page 24
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Continued from page 23 destroys his model – the wife worn out by arduous sittings for the portrait. Ackroyd too reminds us that Oscar Wilde’s classic is reminiscent of other classic stories among them Huysmans’s “A Rebours”, Balzac’s “Le Peau de Chagrin”, Gautier’s “Mademoiselle du Maupin” and Pater’s “Gaston de Latour”. Wilde, Ackroyd says, was not one to shrink from plagiarism, even plagiarism of himself. To Robert Mighall it is clear that “The Portrait of Dorian Gray” is the vehicle for a fantastic plot device ... a metaphor or mask for erotic desire, or the alibi for a life of secret vices; but it is also a work of art, and therefore occupies an important place in Wilde’s text and oeuvre. Wilde … “made art, its relation to life and conduct, and its correct interpretation the dominant theme of most of his writings and public pronouncements. These concerns are explored in Dorian Gray, a novel in which a painting rather than its subject is the eponymous character.” Indeed, as Mighall points out, when Dorian Gray attends a performance of Wagner’s Tannhaüser he sees in the prelude to that great opera a presentation of the tragedy of his own soul. It is the spectator, and life, that art really mirrors. Works of art therefore act as subjective mirrors in Wilde’s novel. Robert Mighall concludes, “It is a book that continues to fascinate readers of all ages over a hundred years after its first publication. For at the centre of the narrative is a study of an individual struggling with the consequences of his actions, and coming face to face with the reality of his soul. Wilde’s study of conscience and corruption can also be understood in both metaphysical and psychological terms.” “The soul is a terrible reality. It can be bought, and sold, and bartered away. It can be poisoned, or made perfect. There is a soul in each one of us.” – Dorian Gray Mighall continues and explains: “… although the central conceit of the physical consequences of certain acts is informed by beliefs peculiar to the time, Wilde’s depiction of how this process affects Dorian Gray has the power to fascinate and chill readers in an age that has discarded such beliefs and can recognise in such descriptions an outline of what now be termed paranoia. Dorian Gray is in part an acute study of obsession and psychological collapse,
Friday, January 19, 2018
Ben Barnes plays Dorian Gray in the 2009 film adaptation of the novel.
Oscar Wilde with Lord Alfred Douglas in 1894
depicting a mind destroying itself with its own obsessions. ... The Picture of Dorian Gray is therefore a work that can be read in a number of ways. It is an enduring parable on the corruption of the soul and a study of psychological collapse, a compendium of the beliefs of the period, and an exercise in literary
decadence, conspicuous in its exotica and esoteria.” Even before Wilde had finished “The Picture of Dorian Gray” he had already started work on “Lady Windermere’s Fan” (1892), and the publication of his novel, despite all its criticism, launched Wilde’s extraordinarily successful
career as a dramatist. At the time of his public downfall in 1895 he had two plays An Ideal Husband and The Importance of Being Earnest playing to packed audiences in the West End of London. These plays were almost immediately taken off, and a US tour of “A Woman of No Importance” was cancelled. On May 25, 1895, Wilde was sentenced to two years imprisonment with hard labour. In November that year he was declared bankrupt. On his release from Reading gaol Wilde left England forever. He died destitute in France in November 1900. And yet today Oscar Wilde’s plays have never been more popular, and “The Picture of Dorian Gray” remains one of the best-selling titles ever published in the Western world - despite its shame and criticism. NEXT WEEK: One of the greatest actresses of classic Hollywood cinema • Sir Christopher Ondaatje is an adventurer and writer resident in the Bahamas. A Sri Lankan-born Canadian-Englishman, he is the author of several books, including “The Last Colonial”. He acknowledges that he has quoted liberally from the Penguin Classic edition of “The Picture of Dorian Gray”.
The Tribune | Weekend | 25
Friday, January 19, 2018
history
Baby it’s cold outside! Forgotten facts Paul C Aranha
L
ike me, you have probably noticed how cold this January has been, with strong northerly winds and enough rain to cause serious flooding on several of our islands. This reminded me that on January 19, 1977, a quick-moving cold front tore into the Bahamas overnight, accompanied by high winds and raging seas – and snow! Grand Bahama reported snow in West End and Freeport, while Abaco saw snow in Walker Cay, Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbour. My friend Kenneth Lightbourne, the chief meteorological officer, said, “Our records show that this has never happened here before”, but reliable record-keeping didn’t exist in 1789, when it is alleged that it snowed then, too. Who knows? One boat captain reported winds of 65 mph near the Berry Islands, and in Nassau 50-mph winds tore down trees, a slew of roof-top TV antennas and power lines in all parts of the island.
This weekend in world history
WILLIAM Pitt the Younger (1759-1800)
THE TRIBUNE front page on Wednesday, January 19, 1977 In Nassau’s harbour, several boats were sunk. Others, including three Out Island mailboats, broke their moorings and drifted away, slamming into other boats and causing chaos on the waterfront. Both the Air Swift and Miss Beverly drifted up the harbour and
sank near Fort Montagu, but the Goldfinger was able to be rescued before any damage was done. The rescue work was directly overseen by Port Director Leon Flowers, who could be seen on the tugboat Mako I, helping vessels in need.
January 19 • 1783 – William Pitt the Younger becomes the youngest Prime Minister of England at age 24. • 1903 – The first regular transatlantic radio broadcast between US and England takes place. • 1915 – During World War I, Britain suffers its first casualties from an air attack when two German zeppelins drop bombs on Great Yarmouth and King’s Lynn on the eastern coast of England. January 20 • 1265 – First English Parliament summoned other than by royal command (in this instance by Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester) meets in Westminster Hall. • 1841 – During the First Opium War, China cedes the island of Hong Kong to the British with the signing
BASRA rescued 20 people from boats in distress. Overnight temperatures in Nassau dropped to the 40s and Freeport reported 38°F at noon. Nassau was cold, but Florida was colder. A Bahamian who lived in West Palm Beach awoke to a call from a friend who lived in Miami. The friend apologised for not being able to come to Palm Beach as planned “because of the snow”. He thought the friend had a weird sense of humour, until he opened the curtains and saw snow on the ground. Ocean Cay is a tiny, bleak place, 20 miles south of Bimini airport, where there is no escaping the wind. The workmen, particularly the Bahamians, were freezing, so the company had to buy electric heaters to send to the cay. But the stores in Florida were sold out. There was not one heater to be bought in Florida, but Trans Island Airways came to the rescue, flying a plane-load of heaters that had been shipped from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale. • For questions and comments, e-mail islandairman@gmail.com
of the Chuenpi Convention, an agreement seeking an end to the first Anglo-Chinese conflict. • 1930 – Charles Lindbergh arrives in New York, setting a cross country flying record of 14.75 hours. January 21 • 1793 – One day after being convicted of conspiracy with foreign powers and sentenced to death by the French National Convention, King Louis XVI is executed by guillotine in the Place de la Revolution in Paris. • 1903 – Stage magician Harry Houdini escapes from Halvemaansteeg police station in Amsterdam which helps him rocket to stardom. • 1924 – Vladimir Lenin, the architect of the Bolshevik Revolution and the first leader of the Soviet Union, dies of a brain haemorrhage at the age of 54.
MaJor, MedaL (across or down)
26 | The Tribune | Weekend
Best described as a number crossword, the task in Kakuro is to fill all of the empty squares, using numbers 1 to 9, so the sum of each horizontal block equals the number to its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the number on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once. The difficulty level of the Conceptis Kakuro increases from Monday to Sunday.
Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Conceptis Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday
CRYPTIC PUZZLE Across 1 Had sent a letter, but expected nothing to come of it (7,3) 6 Sign on the staff (4) 10 Crane put out Pearl’s mother (5) 11 With assurance, indeed (9) 12 Give sorrow or give rage perhaps (8) 13 Fifty-nine weaving cloth (5) 15 In new roles it makes no attempt to hurry (7) 17 No answer (7) 19 He mingles with the crowd to get food (7) 21 Word of praise (7) 22 Emblem of the brave (5) 24 Reasonably practical? (8) 27 Canned - as sardines are (4-5) 28 Bury for most of the winter (5) 29 Where to get a divorce in the forenoon (4) 30 Looked happier when the light improved? (10)
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Down 1 An uncooperative habit (4) 2 Unknown gin and tonic mixed together with love (9) 3 The Irish lost more than half of them (5) 4 Uncle is out to get us; that’s the heart of the matter (7) 5 Avoid showing fright when catching the ball (7) 7 Revolutionary type of 13 Across (5) 8 What a parachutist takes from an aircraft (6,4) 9 Factors in debt-collection (8) 14 Time will be on its side (5,5) 16 Poem done in my break (8) 18 Nigel’s not perhaps the only one in a suit (9) 20 Not a silent thief! (7) 21 Meaning to follow, being sheepish (7) 23 A claw that can pick up a pound in weight (5) 25 Being a fool I do it wrongly (5) 26 Like a desert raid that goes wrong (4)
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Yesterday’s Easy Solution Across: 1 Pegasus, 5 Habit, 8 Truncheon, 9 Tin, 10 Hock, 12 Achilles, 14 Dreamy, 15 Havana, 17 Arkansas, 18 Next, 21 Tea, 22 Boomerang, 24 Crepe, 25 Solvent. Down: 1 Pitch, 2 Gnu, 3 Such, 4 Speech, 5 Handicap, 6 Battleaxe, 7 Tunisia, 11 Checkmate, 13 Amenable, 14 Drastic, 16 Famous, 19 Tight, 20 Well, 23 Awe.
Yesterday’s Cryptic Solution Across: 1 Delibes, 5 Hopes, 8 Catamaran, 9 Tug, 10 Sack, 12 Doubters, 14 Craven, 15 Cotton, 17 Wildfire, 18 Hymn, 21 Eat, 22 Extricate, 24 Deeds, 25 Curtsey. Down: 1 Docks, 2 Let, 3 Bomb, 4 Sermon, 5 Handbook, 6 Patiently, 7 Signs on, 11 Charlotte, 13 Leaflets, 14 Cowherd, 16 Critic, 19 Needy, 20 Tier, 23 Ass.
EASY PUZZLE
Across 1 Script for film (10) 6 Type of leather (4) 10 Drink made from apples (5) 11 Artificial storage lake (9) 12 A venomous arachnid (8) 13 Burn superficially (5) 15 Permanent (7) 17 Author of Canterbury Tales (7) 19 Zealot (7) 21 To bear (7) 22 Swiss mountain (5) 24 As a rule (8) 27 In high spirits (9) 28 Imposing punishment (5) 29 Frog-like creature (4) 30 Free from suspicion (2,3,5)
Down 1 Religious denomination (4) 2 Diminution (9) 3 Wrongdoing (5) 4 Leave-taking (7) 5 A deadly poison (7) 7 Beautify (5) 8 Patient (10) 9 Encroach (8) 14 Perplexity (10) 16 A detained enemy alien (8) 18 Object to (9) 20 Keep in check (7) 21 Withdraw from competition (7) 23 A mild Dutch cheese (5) 25 A savoury jelly (5) 26 Disparagement (4)
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call 0907 181 2585 for today’s target solution *Calls cost 80p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge.
*SP: Spoke – Helpline 0333 202 3390
Rued, Index, Rolls, Brave, Pelt, Zag, Leave, Exogamy, Gangsters.
Extra letter clues
0907 181 2560 (Deduct three minutes for each extra clue letter heard)
full solution
0907 181 2558
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*Calls cost 80p per minute 21 plus your telephone company’s network access charge.
● Alter
PLay More Cross
The Tribune | Weekend | 27
Friday, January 19, 2018
animals
Richie Johnson, a champion for animals
O
ne of the great pleasures of writing one’s own column in the paper is the freedom to write about the things you want to write about. The luxury of the freedom to highlight issues and to tell stories that need to be told. It is a strange feeling to realise that that are millions of people around the world who do not have this privilege and are only allowed to publish what is acceptable and what has been heavily censored. In that respect we are blessed to live in a country that allows the freedom of expression. The children of our nation are encouraged to grow up with a limitless horizon of possibilities. Some of the schools take this even further and encourage our future generations to have compassion and empathy, sentiments that are frequently all too lacking in the Bahamas lately. One such school is Temple Christian School which encourages in their children this very important part of social conscience with a “Giving Back” project. I cannot tell you how surprised and delighted I was to receive an e-mail yesterday informing me that Temple Christian Primary school student Richie Johnson has chosen the Bahamas Humane Society as the focus of her “Paws for a Cause” project. There is something very heartwarming and encouraging when a child reaches out and wants to help and be involved with animals and nature. It displays a tenderness and awareness that is not always present in the youth of today. The lure of the internet and online games frequently influence a child’s perception of the world they reside in, and makes them pass over the simple pleasure that life has to offer, and that we, as older people, remember savouring as kids. Richie Johnson is a shining example of the kind of caring young person I feel the world, and the Bahamas, would benefit from having more of. With the help
Resilient Ruthie By The Bahamas Humane Society
PET OF THE WEEK
T
hird time’s a charm...Ruthie has had a lot of experience at the Bahamas Humane Society. She first arrived as a small pup, but her first adoption didn’t work out. Sadly, neither did her second. This very mellow year-and-six month-old potcake isn’t quite sure why she keeps returning to the BHS but makes the most of it, getting along with her various kennelmates, but all the while hoping for a home of her own, one where she will get to stay this time. She likes both adults and children and is pretty sure she’d make friends with your cat if you had one. Ruthie’s a yard dog, but would love to visit you inside with supervision. Do you have just the right fit for Ruthie? If so, come in to the BHS to meet her or call 325-6742 for more information. Adoption hours are 11am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, and 10am to 4pm on Saturday. Ruthie looks forward to meeting you!
PATRICIA VAZQUEZ
Animal matters Kim Aranha
This Sunday, purchase cookies from one of three locations to support a young student’s “Paws for a Cause” drive to benefit the BHS. of her parents, Ian and Sasha Johnson, she is arranging a cookie drive at three different locations this Sunday. The venues are Super Value Cable Beach (Westridge Plaza), Extra Value Yamacraw and Meat Max on Carmichael Road.
I am asking all of you who are reading this article to try and make a very special effort to go out to one of these locations on Sunday and buy some cookies. It may not be convenient, but that doesn’t have to be a problem. The simple pleasure of assisting a young
person in a very noble endeavour, and helping the animals of this country, should be reward enough to make any inconvenience fly right out of the window. I am full of anticipation of writing a second article about this wonderful young person who has reached out to us without us soliciting her assistance. I am hoping that this project of hers will encourage other youngsters to “jump on the bandwagon” and choose projects that assist animals and the environment in the Bahamas. I am looking forward to reporting how much money her cookie drive has raised and what the BHS will be able to use those funds for. Assisting animals and the environment is actually assisting the humans in the nation. The BHS and the environmental organisations make this a better place to live. We, by spaying and neutering, cut down on the volume of stray animals. By cutting down on the stray population there are less health issues with rotting bodies of deceased animals, less barking in the neighbourhood, less trash cans overturned; overall many less inconveniences. The environmental groups fight the good fight to maintain the natural resources of the Bahama Islands, resources that many citizens either take for granted or totally disregard. Without the animal and environmental groups working day and night, with back-breaking dedication, this country would not be in as good a position that it is in. However, we still, admittedly, have a very long way to go. That distance ahead of us to become responsible towards animals and the environment, can be shortened with the conscious, able, dedication of young people. Young people like Richie Johnson who is paving the way for other young pioneers to follow her lead. We at the Bahamas Humane Society are very excited about Richie’s cookie drive and we wish her all the luck in the world. We applaud her parents for supporting her in this endeavour, and we congratulate Temple Christian School for encouraging their students to have a social conscience. And we ask you to please help Richie have a very successful cookie drive by going to one of the mentioned locations and buying some cookies from her.
28 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, January 19, 2018
section
since i’ve had ALIV its considerably less expensive and the service has been remarkable - Basil Christie
Special Olympics Chairman / Friends of the Blood Bank
believe in best
bealiv.com