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Elnet Maritime Breaks Ground for New Center in Grand Bahama

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#Freeport, GB, August 29, 2018 – Bahamas – Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator Kwasi Thompson, said both foreign and local investors continue to display confidence in the Grand Bahamian economy by starting new businesses or expanding existing ones.

Minister Thompson, who was the keynote speaker at the groundbreaking ceremony for Elnet Maritime Center on Monday, August 27, 2018, noted that CEO of Elnet Maritime Ltd., Elbert Hepburn is a real example of what the spirit of Grand Bahama represents.

“The government has seen restored investor interest among foreign investors, as well as among Bahamians, right here in Grand Bahama,” added Minister Thompson.  “In fact, over the past year or so, there have been a number of new businesses started in Grand Bahama, as well as expansion of existing businesses.

“If there is anyone who says that Grand Bahama is dead, I tell them to open their eyes and they will see,” added Minister Thompson.  “I am in no way suggesting that business is booming.  I am in no way saying that we are doing all that we can and should do, but what I am saying is that there are Bahamians and other investors who are pushing their way through in Grand Bahama and they ought to be commended for contributing to the kind of economy that we would like to see.”

He noted that by virtue of Grand Bahama’s deep waters, its climate and proximity to the United States and its open geographical path to the rest of the world, Grand Bahama has proven perfect for the maritime industry.   “While we also seek to expand other industries such as tourism, technology and others, we want to continue to capitalize on maritime and ensure that Grand Bahama maintains its status as a major maritime and industrial hub in the region,” he said.

During the construction phase of Elnet’s new Maritime Center, Elnet intends to engage some 125 people through self-contractors.  Post construction, there will be opportunities for 80 to 100 new jobs in Grand Bahama.

Minister Thompson said he was excited to see Bahamian-owned businesses investing further into the local economy.  Minister Thompson said Elnet Maritime, which has been around for over 10 years, is a testament to what Bahamians can achieve through hard work, faith, innovation and dedication, and that innovation and entrepreneurship are key to Grand Bahama’s economy.

Since taking office, Minister Thompson pointed out that the government has committed to creating an environment that is conducive to the creation and growth of small businesses by way of providing funding, training programs and mentorship from other professions.

“The government has allocated 25 million dollars over the next few years – five million dollars this year.  I’m sure that a great portion of that five million dollars, when it comes to small businesses development, will be spent right here in Grand Bahama.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest also congratulated the CEO of Elnet, and the principals on the success of the business over the past 10 years.

“We know, based upon the history of this company and based upon your vision for Elnet, that this new endeavor will be very successful, and will continue to contribute to this island in a significant way,” said Minister Turnquest.   “This expansion, I believe, demonstrates to Grand Bahama and to The Bahamas that there is life here in Grand Bahama.  As a government we have intense discussions at least once a week about the future of Grand Bahama and what should be our response as a government and what initiative we should take to help develop this island.”

The Deputy Prime Minister noted that the step by the government to purchase the Grand Lucayan Resort was one of those initiatives or steps the government has taken to help develop the island’s economy, and that it was a demonstration of the government’s commitment to the economy of Grand Bahama and ensuring opportunities for the people of Grand Bahama and throughout The Bahamas.

“The story of Grand Bahama is in the success of entrepreneurship,” said Minister Turnquest.  “Bahamians, like Mr. Hepburn and others who have made the decision to invest in their own country.  Every day we fight to ensure that Grand Bahama gets the resources and attention that it needs.  But, in order for the government to be successful, we need the private sector to step up and take its rightful place.

“Through the small business development center that we are developing here, through the Bahamas Development Bank, through BAIC and all of the other entrepreneurial initiatives that we have, as well as the commitment of the government to put its money where its mouth is, there is opportunity, capital and even training for genuine, well-thought out businesses.”

By Andrew Coakley

Release: BIS

PHOTO CAPTIONS

BIS Photos/Andrew Miller

DPM BRINGS REMARKS – Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. K. Peter Turnquest was among those bringing remarks during groundbreaking ceremony for Elnet Maritime Center on Monday, August 27, 2018.

SHOWING CONFIDENCE – Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson, said expansion of Elnet Maritime is evidence of the confidence Bahamian investors have in the Grand Bahamian economy.

BREAKING GROUND – Deputy Prime Minister, K. Peter Turnquest and Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson (second and third from right), were among those preparing to till the soil as a part of groundbreaking ceremonies for the new Elnet Maritime Center, located on Queen’s Highway, Freeport, Grand Bahama.  CEO of Elnet, Elbert Hepburn is center (fifth from left).

 

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Ayla Isaacs Unveils Transformative Guide Amidst Challenging Times

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Bahamian author Ayla Isaacs is making an impactful debut in the literary world with her book, “Achieving Optimum Spiritual Health—Transforming Your Wellbeing With Diet, Exercise, and Rest.” As crime rates surge and the aftermath of the pandemic leaving many grappling with hopelessness and a sense of abandonment, Isaacs’ guide offers a beacon of hope and a roadmap for personal transformation, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing spiritual resilience in navigating adversity.

Long-time Bahamian physician Dr. Horizal Simmons says, “Ms. Isaacs not only states the spiritual ingredient that we should use for our therapy, but she also explains how it works in our spiritual system and the beneficial changes that will bring the desired transformation or spiritual health benefits.” Applauding the soundness of the book and paralleling it to physical wellness, Dr. Simmons said he highly recommends it to anyone serious about their spiritual well-being and health.

Isaacs is a highly experienced Project Manager who draws from her background in Civil and Environmental Engineering, International Business, and Christian ministry, whether a physical structure or the wellbeing of an individual’s life. Her published work shows that she strongly believes in building with structural integrity. Isaacs provides readers with a holistic approach to welfare beyond traditional self-help. She explores the transformative power of simple spiritual practices integrated into daily life. Isaacs believes that prioritizing spiritual health can help individuals find inner fulfillment and a sense of purpose, which she believes are essential in combating the prevailing hopelessness.

Coach Gregory Cash, who has spent decades helping to develop great athletes and leaders in the country, believes the unique perspective shared, especially relating to spiritual exercise, can touch the hearts of so many. Wendy Fernander, PhD., a licensed clinical psychologist and president of the Bahamas Psychological Association, noted that too few of us think about our spiritual diet, which results in our spiritual wellbeing. When asked about the book, Dr. Fernander said, “This book will provoke you to do serious soul searching.”

Amid the challenges communities face, Isaacs encourages readers to initiate a positive “me” movement—a focus on self-improvement that, when embraced collectively, can lead to stronger families, churches, and nations. According to Isaacs, strengthened individuals become catalysts for positive change within their immediate circles, creating a ripple effect that extends to broader communities.

Ayla Isaacs, whose roots go back to South Eleuthera, is a founding member of the Smart and Strong Sisterhood (SASS) and the creative mind behind A.I. Paper, a gift-wrapping paper and bag company that celebrates the islands of The Bahamas. Isaacs believes that investing in spiritual wellbeing is pivotal for personal growth and resilience. A conference speaker who is actively involved in church ministries and affiliated with several civic organizations, Isaacs firmly believes in the balance between personal and community wellbeing.

“Achieving Optimum Spiritual Health” is now available on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com in paperback and eBook form and locally at Oasis Bookstore in Nassau. Isaacs encourages readers to embark on a transformative journey and be architects of their spiritual wellbeing. In times of uncertainty, “Achieving Optimum Spiritual Health” offers a guide and a message of hope and empowerment for individuals seeking personal and communal transformation.

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Tired of Taking Notes? The new Samsung Galaxy S24 Will Transcribe and Summarize Your Voice Notes In A Snap! 

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NASSAU, Bahamas – Faster, smarter and more convenient than ever before, the new Samsung Galaxy S24 will revolutionize your productivity with its new Transcript Assist and Browsing Assist features. In the continuous pursuit of delivering innovative solutions that enhance productivity and user experience, Samsung Electronics is proud to introduce two groundbreaking features: Transcript Assist and Browsing Assist.

The Transcript Assist feature, powered by Galaxy’s advanced artificial intelligence, takes note-taking to a whole new level by enabling users to easily convert voice notes and conversations into useful and accessible notes. Whether in a business meeting, conference, or casual conversation, the Galaxy S24’s Transcript Assist makes capturing information easier than ever.

By utilizing Transcript Assist, users can effortlessly record any conversation with multiple speakers and transform it into a clear and concise transcript with just a few taps. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to keep a detailed record of discussions and decisions made during important meetings or collaborative work sessions.

“With Transcript Assist, we’re redefining the way people take notes and record information,” said Gianmarco Leri, Product Manager at Samsung Electronics. “No longer do you have to worry about missing important details during a conversation. With the Galaxy S24, you can capture every word and turn it into a useful reference that you can easily review and share.”

In addition to generating accurate transcripts, the Transcript Assist feature also offers the ability to generate quick summaries of conversations, as well as the option to translate the entire transcript into different languages, facilitating communication and collaboration among people from different regions and cultures.

On the other hand, the Browsing Assist feature allows users to navigate more efficiently and conveniently on their Galaxy S24 devices by providing intelligent and contextual suggestions during web browsing and online content exploration.

The Galaxy S24, equipped with Transcript Assist and Browsing Assist, marks the beginning of a new era of productivity and convenience in mobile devices. These innovative features demonstrate Samsung Electronics’ continued commitment to providing advanced tools that help people achieve their goals more effectively and efficiently in everyday life.

So, get ready! The new Samsung Galaxy S24 will be coming soon to tech stores in The Bahamas soon.

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Weather Systems Affect Cuba and The Bahamas

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Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

#Weather#Cuba#TheBahamas, March 25th, 2024 – Serious weather struck The Bahamas and Cuba over the weekend, both nations receiving warnings from their meteorological entities. The Bahamas was affected by severe thunderstorms.  In fact, an area of the Carnival Freedom Cruise Ship, which was 20 miles off Eleuthera, Bahamas, caught fire and reports say it was possibly due to a lightning strike.  Fortunately no lives were reported lost.

Meanwhile, Cuba had intense rainfall and hailstorms, resulting in damage to surrounding areas, thousands left without electricity amid fallen trees and Flash Floods.

 

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