Bahamas News
Carnival reaffirms its commitment to major project in Grand Bahama
#Freeport, GB, September 9, 2019 – Bahamas – In spite of the devastation unleashed on the Northern Bahamas by Hurricane Dorian, Carnival Cruise Line is still committed to its major project on the island of Grand Bahama.
That commitment was confirmed by Giora Israel, senior vice-president of Global Port and Destination Development, during an interview with the media on Friday, September 6, 2019.
“I’m here to advise that Carnival was committed, is committed and re-committed to the Port project,” said Mr. Israel, during an interview at the Emergency Operation Center at the C.A. Smith Building.
“As soon as is practically possible, we will finalize the paper work with the government and we want to do it here in Grand Bahama, with the Prime Minister, so that we can go to work. We remain committed to this project.
“Just ten days ago, or more, the Prime Minister and Minister Thompson, in Nassau announced that an agreement has been reached and finalized for the construction of a major cruise port in Grand Bahama, which we had announced in February of this year. I just want to reaffirm that we are still committed to that project.”
Mr. Israel, along with Marie McKenzie, vice-president, Global Ports and Caribbean Government Relations; David Candib, vice-president, Development & Operations, Global Port and Destination Development Group; and Carlos Estrada, director of Commercial Home Port Operations — made a special trip to Grand Bahama on Friday to not only get a firsthand look at the devastation that Hurricane Dorian left behind, but they also came with supplies for the residents of Grand Bahama.
Before meeting with the media, the Carnival executives held a private meeting with Deputy Prime Minister, K. Peter Turnquest and Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson, to discuss the purpose of their trip to Grand Bahama.
“A part of our goal in providing help to Grand Bahama is to do our part to help bring the economy back on its feet, and quickly, and to bring hope back to the people of Grand Bahama,” said Mr. Israel. “Carnival has a long, great relationship with The Bahamas that spans many decades and so in line with that relationship, we feel that it was not even a question of whether or not we would step in and do our part to help Grand Bahama.”
Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson said that the announcement by Mr. Israel was an important one for the island, which is still reeling from the blow that was delivered by Hurricane Dorian. He noted that while, on the surface, such an announcement may not seem directly tied to the recovery efforts presently going on in Grand Bahama, it provided a hope for the future growth of the Grand Bahamian economy.
“We are very pleased that Carnival has confirmed their commitment to the cruise port,” said Minister Thompson. “That message is essential for the relief, the recovery and the comeback. I think that message is one which all Grand Bahamians will take note of and would be pleased about.
“I want to thank Carnival Corporation and the entire team for their decision to come to Grand Bahama at this time, which confirms their partnership and commitment to Grand Bahama. They didn’t come empty-handed, but they brought with them loads of relief items, essential medical supplies and personnel. So to them we say ‘Thank you’.
“In fact, we want to say how much we appreciate the entire cruise industry. They have really come together, have been committed and they were some of the first groups of people to come in and bring relief for the whole island of Grand Bahama.”
Mr. Israel said that Carnival is also looking at the medium and long term of re-establishing Grand Bahama’s economy, which includes the re-opening the Grand Bahama Shipyard as soon as possible. As one of the original Founders of the Shipyard over 20 years ago, Israel says he understands the importance of the industry, as it is one of the largest in the hemisphere.
“It would be good if the Shipyard could be opened quickly,” said Israel. “We (Carnival, the Government and executives of the Shipyard) are in discussions about what it would take to make that possible in a matter of days.
“Not only does the shipyard create jobs for those who work there, but it creates a lot of auxiliary contributions to the economy, from airlines, port agents, hotels and restaurants. We want to make sure that businesses are coming back, that the economy rebounds; that beyond the most urgent and immediate help, we are looking to the future.”
Minister Thompson concurred, adding that getting the shipyard up and running is critical to re-starting the economy of Grand Bahama, particularly following the negative effects of Hurricane Dorian. “That’s obviously important for employment, it’s hugely important for visitors coming in and for the industry,” said Minister Thompson. “That move also helps to solidify Carnival’s commitment to the island of Grand Bahama.”
He noted that Carlos Estrada, who was also traveling with the team, was already making connection with officials at the Port, to work with the agent to assess whether or not they can bring in the people. They will have further talks with the taxi association, tour operators over the next several days to decide when would be the right day to bring in cruise ship passengers.
“Let’s show the people of Grand Bahama the love and they will appreciate it,” said Mr. Israel.
Minister Thompson, along with Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. Peter Turnquest and other Parliamentary colleagues spent most of Friday in the EOC, meeting with international volunteer groups coming in and seeking ways to assist in the restoration efforts.
Minister Thompson said that the invitations to assist and the volunteers coming in from out of town has been tremendous.
“The Prime Minister himself noted that one of the best ways that a person can show his/her way of bringing relief is to continue to do business with the Bahamas,” said Minister Thompson. “So, Carnival’s commitment to continue to bring cruise ships to Grand Bahama is what will help us a lot.
“One of the things that we have to rebuild quickly is the business sector of Grand Bahama, which was hugely affected by severe flooding. So to have partners that come and say that they are fully committed and on the ground early, is very important.”
By Andrew Coakley
Release: BIS
Photo Caption: Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson (third from left) thanks Giora Israel, senior vice-president of Global Port and Destination Development, for Carnival’s commitment to the long-standing relationship with Grand Bahama; and more specifically, he thanked him for reaffirming Carnival’s commitment to the construction of a cruise port in Grand Bahama. Mr. Israel and his team of executives made a special trip to Grand Bahama on Friday, September 6, 2019 to get a firsthand look at the damage to the island from Hurricane Dorian. They also brought along a large number of supplies for NEMA. Joining Mr. Israel were (from left) David Candib, Marie McKenzie and Carlos Estrada (right).
(BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Wines & Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wines and spirits distributor is proud to announce the launch of Monument Beverage Co., its newest 100% locally produced ready-to-drink alcoholic cocktail.
Monument, “Made to Celebrate”, perfectly encapsulates everything the brand represents. Created and distributed by CWS, Monument is
inspired by culture, crafted with excellence and bursting with innovation.
This unique beverage celebrates island living with three bold flavors, Ginger Lime, Peach Passion and Melon Fizz. All of which can be enjoyed at an ABV of five-point-two percent.
The brand’s creativity really shines through each can’s packaging. Bold colored stripes, cherished native flora and fauna and of course, national monuments can all be found on each can.
The beverage’s two year plus development is a testament to CWS’ dedication to quality and innovation. Countless hours of tastings, reformulations, focus groups and package design reviews all paid off with the creation of Monument.
Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Chief Commercial Officer of Caribbean Wines & Spirits and Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, shared what this authentically Bahamian made product launch means for the company.
“When we were conceptualizing Monument, we wanted to create a product that not only tasted like The Bahamas but would be an ode to the
nation as well. With those two thoughts in mind, I, along with a team of experts, created three incredible flavors we believe really connect with and celebrate the essence of island living,” she said.
“Additionally, being that Monument is the first product to be 100% manufactured by Caribbean Wines & Spirits, we really wanted to ensure that both the flavors and packaging honored our rich heritage. On each of the cans, you can find various monuments such as the Nassau Public Library in New Providence, the Garden of the Grove in Grand Bahama and the Hatchet Bay Silos in Eleuthera; all of which pay homage to our diverse Bahamian heritage.” Wells-Lisgaris concluded.”
The historic monuments found throughout our islands are more than places we pass every day; they are reminders of who we are, where we’ve come from and the stories that connect us as Bahamians.
Monument is perfectly formulated with quality ingredients, and each can celebrates a collection of these cultural icons from across The Bahamas.
Whether chilling solo beachside, gathered around a family table or backyard a grill with friends, make Monument your sip of choice. Monument is made to celebrate, visit www.cwsbahamas.com today for more details.
NASSAU, Bahamas —– Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to crown Lady
Kayla of Exuma as this year’s annual Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup winner.
CBC created the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup to further the advancement of sailing and Bahamian culture through monetary and social support. The competition judges the skipper’s performance across three regattas, The Best of the Best, the National Family Island and Long Island Regattas.
The winning sloop led by Kianno Hutchinson and Joss Knowles showcased their skillmanship in the E-Class category across each round of competition. In addition to winning the trophy, the skippers were awarded a $5,000 donation, an $8,000 stipend to the junior sailing club of their island and a limited-edition Lady Kayla Bahamas Goombay Punch commemorative can, which will be released soon.
Jonathan Thronebury, Marketing Director of CBC shared the significance behind The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup.
“The Bahamas Goombay Punch is more than a beloved local brand; it’s a vibrant part of our cultural fabric. Just like sailing, our national sport, it carries a rich legacy that spans generations. Recognizing this shared history, we’re proud to support initiatives that celebrate and advance Bahamian culture,” he said.
Hutchinson and Knowles shared what this win meant for them.
“I felt super proud when I realized we won. I am grateful and thankful to God, for good coaches and Joss. It was really an honor winning the
Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup,” Hutchinson expressed.
“I am very honored to have been able to compete in the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup, I think it is a great concept and idea for a competition and really adds a new motive throughout the regattas. The whole championship was super competitive, and every single race was a fight. Alvington McKenzie was extremely competitive and had us until the Long Island regatta, which made it a very fun and tough competition. Very excited to have been the winner of a super close championship,” Knowles revealed.
Lady Kayla’s owner, Dallas Knowles, shared the team’s winning strategy.
“In sailing consistency is key and our guys in Lady Kayla are some of the best in the business at staying near the top. In the end, that was enough to secure their first Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup win. We are so proud of Joss and Kianno for what they have done in Lady Kayla. Thank you to Caribbean Bottling Company for such an amazing and forward-thinking initiative,” Knowles shared.
The Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup is proud to continue its impact on sailing and community building through clean and fair competition.
For more updates on the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup and Caribbean Bottling Company visit the website www.cbcbahamas.com today.
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to once again support Basketball Smiles for their 27th year.
Upholding its corporate pillar of community outreach, CBC proudly donated $2,000, over 75 cases of Dasani, Powerade and Sprite, reusable
Powerade water bottles and numerous marketing materials.
The annual sporting summer camp offers free basketball and life skills training to Junior and High School students.
Basketball Smiles’ mission of developing leadership qualities while fostering children’s academic achievement and self-esteem aligns perfectly with CBC’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth.
Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager for Caribbean Bottling Company shared why the company continues to support this program each year.
“At CBC, we believe investing in our youth is one of the greatest ways to strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support Basketball Smiles each year because it goes beyond the game. This program champions healthy lifestyles, positive values and brighter futures. It’s a privilege to play a role in helping these young athletes reach their full potential each year,” she shared.
Sam Nicholls, Basketball Smiles Camp President and Founder expressed.
“Caribbean Bottling Company is an incredible partner. We are truly grateful for their generous support, which will go a long way in making a positive impact on the lives of our campers,” Nicholls expressed.
CBC is always ready to lend its support toward initiatives and programs that uplift young Bahamians. The impact Basketball Smiles makes on the community is undeniable and is why CBC remains a historic sponsor.
For more information on sponsorship, events and new products, visit www.cbcbahamas.com today.
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