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RBDF Commended for Outstanding Performance at Annual Church Service

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Bahamas, March 28, 2017 – Nassau – Every year, in the month of March, the Officers, Senior Rates and Junior Enlisted of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) attend a local church regaled in their brightest and best uniforms, to highlight their achievements during the past year, remember those who would have died in the line of duty, and thank God for their safekeeping, and to pray for continued blessings for the new year.

This year, their 37th anniversary service was held at the Church of God of Prophecy Tabernacle on East Street where Bishop Hulan Hanna is the Senior Pastor. The service was attended by the Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Her Excellency Dame Marguerite Pindling, the Minister of National Security, the Honorable Dr. Bernard Nottage, Minister of State Senator the Honorable Keith Bell, President of the Court of Appeal, Dame Anita Allen, members of the diplomatic corps and representatives from various security forces.

Church Photo 1Under the theme Forward, Upward, Onward Together in Guarding Our Heritage, officers and marines in attendance were commended by the Minister Nottage for their outstanding performance since 2012. This period saw 500 marines recruited, 400 officers and marines undergoing professional and military courses, the capture of 13 Dominican vessels and the confiscation of almost 200,000 poumds of fisheries products and a significant reduction in Dominican poachers; the introduction of South Beach coastal patrols with corresponding crime reduction in the area under Operation Southern Shores; and the signing of the Sandy Bottom Project for the acquisition of 9 patrol craft and modernization of port facilities.

The achievements of the Defence Force during the previous year (2016) were also highlighted. These included joint operations with Police in a national fight against crime resulting in a noted reduction in serious crime; firefighting, patrols and medical assistance provided by Defence Force during the city dump fire and evacuation of Jubilee Gardens; disaster relief assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew; introduction of K-9 Unit; the introduction of a pilot drone unit; the continued capture and arrest of Dominican poachers; the implementation of the Defence Force’s ‘Operation Transformation’ for the efficient management, development and welfare of its human capital inclusive of an accredited Maritime Defence Institute and a Naval Infantry School; and the continued unfolding of the Defence Force’s ‘Operation Regeneration’ for the development of the nation’s youth under the Defence Force’s Rangers Program which incorporates over 30 high schools and saw the addition of schools in the Berry Islands and North Andros in 2017; and the acquisition of 9 patrol craft, and the ongoing development of bases and port facilities at Coral Harbour, Inagua and Ragged Island.

Minister Nottage also encouraged members of the Defence Force to keep up the good work and take care of themselves in the process. And he reminded them that they had a favorable reputation in the eyes of the public which they should seek to uphold.

Church Photo 3Bishop Hulan Hanna, who delivered the sermon at the Annual Church Service, reminded Defence Force members, as well as representatives from the Royal Bahamas Polie Force, Bahamas Immigration, Customs and the Department of Correctional Services of the vital service they provide, and he encouraged them to always perform at their best while refusing to associate with non-productive colleagues. Bishop Hanna also reminded those in attendance that real success in national security affairs requires a commitment to Christ as a changed heart produces a changed life.

Commander Defence Force (Acting), Tellis Bethel lauded the event as a success that helps to set a positive tone for the incoming year and expressed his appreciation of the leadership and members of other security forces sharing in this annual service.  Captain Bethel was appointed Deputy Commander Defence Force in January 2012 under Commodore Roderick Bowe’s leadership, and later Commander Defence Force (Acting) since March 2015 upon Commodore Bowe’s official retirement.

The Defence Force anniversary activities continues this month with the 5th Commander Defence Force Regatta that is slated for the March 31 – April 2, 2017, and a fun, run, walk slated for early next month.

(For further information please contact the RBDF Public Relations Department or visit their website: www.rbdf.gov.bs, follow them on Facebook, Twitter and view their Youtube channel).

#RBDF

 

Bahamas News

Scotiabank Launches “Ticket to Tokyo” Campaign with Exclusive Client Event at OKU  

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Nassau, Bahamas – Scotiabank Bahamas officially launched its highly anticipated “Ticket to Tokyo” campaign with an exclusive client celebration at OKU Restaurant, transforming the chic venue into a sleek, Tokyo-themed oasis. Guests, including Scotiabank clients and invited partners, were treated to signature cocktails, curated Asian inspired bites and a vibrant atmosphere designed to mirror the excitement and sophistication of Japan’s capital city.

The event served as a thrilling preview of what one lucky Scotiabank credit cardholder and their guest will experience this fall, an all-expenses paid trip to Tokyo, Japan. The campaign reflects Scotiabank’s continued commitment to creating meaningful and memorable experiences for its clients, extending far beyond traditional banking benefits.

“At Scotiabank, we believe in more than just banking, we believe in delighting our clients with experiences that go beyond the benefits of our products and services,” said Roger Archer, VP & District Head at Scotiabank Bahamas. “Our credit cards are designed to match every lifestyle, with features that reward clients for their everyday purchases in ways that truly matter.”

The “Ticket to Tokyo” promotion, which runs from May 19 through July 7, 2025, is open to legal residents of The Bahamas who are 18 years or older. Eligible participants can enter by spending BSD$350 or more on a Scotiabank credit card, with each qualifying transaction earning one entry into the draw. New cardholders can also participate by activating their card and making a qualifying purchase. There is no limit to the number of entries a cardholder can earn, increasing their chances of winning with each eligible transaction.

The grand prize includes roundtrip airfare to Tokyo for two, five days and four nights of hotel accommodation, ground transportation, USD $1,000 in spending money and a curated experience that may include athletic events and cultural excursions. Travel dates for the trip are set for September 13-23, 2025.

Scotiabank offers a wide selection of credit card products that cater to a variety of needs and preferences. Clients can benefit from no annual fees with the Scotiabank Visa card, earn travel points through the Mastercard Aero or Visa AAdvantage cards, enjoy up to 4% cashback with the Mastercard Gold or accumulate Membership Reward Points through American Express for exclusive perks and lifestyle experiences.

Over the years, Scotiabank has taken its cardholders to some of the world’s most prestigious events and destinations, including Formula 1 races in the US, the NBA Finals in Miami, the Miami Open, FIFA World Cup in Australia, and cultural getaways across Greece, Italy, Paris, Oregon, and Budapest. Clients have also enjoyed exclusive concert experiences, including shows by Taylor Swift and Coldplay.

The “Ticket to Tokyo” campaign is the latest in a long line of once in a lifetime opportunity presented by Scotiabank to thank its clients for their loyalty and continued trust.

“This campaign is an extension of our client-centric approach and our goal to deliver value in unique and exciting ways,” added Archer. “We’re proud to reward our credit card clients with a chance to explore one of the world’s most vibrant cities, where ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation come together in unforgettable fashion.”

The winner of the campaign will be announced on July 17, 2025. To learn more or to apply for a Scotiabank credit card, interested persons can visit bs.scotiabank.com or stop by any branch location.

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Bahamas News

TCI PARTICIPATES IN THE 15TH MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS OF the Caribbean disaster emergency management agency (CDEma)

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 4 July 2025 – Hon. Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development with responsibility for the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies led a delegation to the 15th meeting of the Council of Ministers of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), hosted by the Commonwealth of Bahamas on 27th June, 2025.

The meeting brought together Ministers and delegates with responsibility for Disaster Risk Management from the nineteen (19) CDEMA participating states.

The theme for this year meeting was ‘Resilient States, Safer Lives’. The agenda for the meeting coincided with the theme, focusing on building resilience in member states for the ultimate benefit of the Caribbean region. Moreover, the CDEMA Coordinating Unit re-affirmed its commitment to supporting member states and encouraged more effective collaboration and strengthening of partnerships to mitigate against the impact of all hazards.

During the meeting, Ministers deliberated on a vast array of topics, including:

  • Organizational Restructuring of the CDEMA Coordinating Unit
  • Enhancing Regional Operational Readiness
  • Resource Mobilization
  • Multi-hazard Risk Assessments
  • Regional Emergency Telecommunications Strategy; and
  • ICT Contingency Planning

Hon. Arlington Musgrove noted that “the TCI is enhancing community preparedness, investing in multi-hazard early warning systems and improving coordination across all levels of government. This meeting is a critical step to ensuring TCI can respond decisively to all hazards, particularly considering the commencement of the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Minister Musgrove further commented on the importance of community engagement and public awareness across the archipelago, noting that “building a culture of preparedness starts with informed and empowered citizens.

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Bahamas News

Prime Minister Declares July 7 ‘Civil Society Bahamas Day’ as CSB Marks 20 Years of National Impact

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Deandrea Hamilton | Editor                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                The Bahamas, July 4, 2025 – A significant chapter was added to the legacy of Civil Society Bahamas (CSB) this week as Prime Minister Hon. Philip Davis officially proclaimed July 7 as “Civil Society Bahamas Day”, recognizing the organization’s two decades of national service and advocacy.

The proclamation comes as Civil Society Bahamas celebrates its 20th anniversary, under the theme: “Civil Society: Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future.” The historic acknowledgment cements CSB’s role in promoting participatory democracy and supporting nonprofit collaboration throughout The Bahamas.

To commemorate the milestone, a special thanksgiving service is scheduled for Sunday, 6 July 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Baptist Church, East and Shirley Streets in Nassau. The service will honor the contributions of civil society leaders while setting a renewed vision for national engagement and development.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Honoring Legacy, Inspiring Action                                                                                                                                                                        Dr. Anthony Hamilton, President of CSB, has led a slate of initiatives since assuming office, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to building bridges between the nonprofit sector, government, and citizens. Dr. Hamilton, along with CSB members, recently paid a courtesy call on Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Hon. Ryan Pinder, to discuss strategies for continued collaboration and nonprofit sector advancement.

“The Prime Minister’s proclamation is not just symbolic,” Dr. Hamilton said. “It is a validation of the vital work being done by ordinary citizens and grassroots organizations across our archipelago. Civil society is the backbone of national resilience.”

Founded in 2005, CSB serves as the umbrella body for nonprofit and community-based organizations in The Bahamas. Over the past 20 years, it has led advocacy efforts, policy consultations, and capacity-building programs on critical issues such as social justice, youth development, environmental protection, and gender equity.

A Church Service with Civic Significance

Sunday’s service at Zion Baptist Church is expected to attract a wide cross-section of stakeholders, including former and current civil society leaders, public officials, and youth organizations. The service will reflect on CSB’s past achievements and present its roadmap for future transformation.

The choice of venue is deeply symbolic: Zion Baptist Church has long been associated with community empowerment and national activism, making it a fitting space for CSB’s commemorative gathering.

Looking Ahead: Empowerment, Engagement, Equity

With the official establishment of Civil Society Bahamas Day, CSB is preparing a lineup of initiatives focused on strengthening nonprofit impact and leadership development. These include training sessions, strategic forums, and regional partnerships that will better position Bahamian organizations to respond to evolving social and economic challenges.

As the civil society landscape faces global disruptions—from climate change to artificial intelligence—CSB plans to remain a unifying voice that pushes for inclusive policy and civic empowerment.

“Civil society is not a spectator in national life,” said Dr. Hamilton. “It is an active, essential player in shaping the future of our people and our democracy.”

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