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BAHAMAS: GBPA Partners with PHA and GBHS to provide COVID-19 vaccination centre

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#Bahamas, March 9, 2021 – The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) has joined forces with the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) and the Grand Bahama Health Services (GBHS) to provide a safe and hygienic environment to administer the much-anticipated AstraZenecaCOVID-19 vaccine to Grand Bahamians and residents.

As the Government of The Bahamas makes preparations to distribute the vaccine, GBPA has stepped in to make a portion of the Susan J. Wallace Community Centre available for an initial period of two months as a full-service immunization facility.  The GBPA will cover all utility costs, provide 24-hour security, and building and grounds maintenance associated with the upkeep and preservation of the facility for the duration of its use as a vaccination centre.

Sharon Williams, Administrator at GBHS, expressed her appreciation for the support given by the GBPA. “This partnership between PHA and the GBPA is timely and will ensure that Grand Bahama Health Services can continue to work diligently to help prevent the rise in COVID-19 cases in our community.”

Distribution of the vaccine at the Centre will also help to alleviate some of the pressure on Grand Bahama’s strained medical system. “The use of the facility for vaccination purposes helps us tremendously,” added Ms. Williams. “Our other healthcare facilities, including our clinics, are unable to facilitate mass vaccinations while caring for ailing patients and conducting normal operations.”

Ian Rolle, President of the GBPA, stated, “Rolling out the vaccine quickly and efficiently is vital to saving and protecting lives in our community. Our Island has suffered so much loss and devastation since Hurricane Dorian and the Covid-19 pandemic. Separately, this will also help the island’s economic recovery, which has been uppermost on GBPA’s mind since Hurricane Dorian. While we acknowledge that medical facilities are the sole responsibility of the Government of The Bahamas, the GBPA was delighted to step up to assist the PHA at the onset of COVID-19. In April 2020, we made the Grand Bahama Cancer Association building available to be used as a COVID-19 medical facility free of charge for a nine-month period. We also sourced and funded a supply of COVID-19 rapid-result test kits, donated two x-ray machines to PHA and provided a back-up generator.

“We know that the fight against COVID-19 requires a collaborative, coordinated effort from all sectors,” continued Mr. Rolle. “We want to continue to support GBHS by providing a safe and central location that can be made sterile and accessible so that all designated persons can receive the vaccine expeditiously.  GBPA will continue to support GBHS’s effort to fight Covid-19. The sooner we get past this daunting hurdle, the sooner our Island can move forward with vigour, and the sooner critical projects in the Grand Bahama pipeline can be underway.”

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Press Statement by Valdez J. Edgecombe (“V.J”) On National Honours Award

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The Bahamas, 10th July 2025

Thanks to the caring support of my mother, grandmother, family members, and the Bimini Island village, I never went to bed with an empty stomach.

Today, my heart is full to learn that I have been named to the 2025 conferral of awards under the National Honours Act to citizens of The Bahamas.  I am very surprised, deeply humbled, grateful, and by all means honoured to identify as a recipient of the prestigious Order of Lignum Vitae Award.

I commend the Office of The Governor General and, by extension, the government and people of The Bahamas for such a profound recognition.  Through this award, my name will forever be linked with hundreds of great Bahamians who have and continue to contribute tremendously to nation-building.  My heartfelt congratulations to all.

Thank you all so very much for considering me to be placed among so many outstanding giants, in particular my fellow athletes who have and are presently performing on the international stage.

This award has everything to do with my mother’s incredible sacrifice, my siblings, and my family’s belief in me, the Bimini village, and wider Bahamas support base, and the many individuals and institutions abroad who are now regarded as my family.

Never in my wildest dream did I expect to wake up on the 52nd Anniversary of my country’s Independence to find that I am a National Honours recipient.

I have always dreamt big, but only divine intervention could have made it possible for me by way of a National Honours list to be associated with the courageous Pompey Rolle, a slave from Lord Rolle’s Plantation in Steventon, Exuma,The Bahamas, back in 1839, who led a revolt with unmatched bravery to free himself and fellow slaves from despicable human suffering – 77 slaves are noted in this chapter of our nation’s history .

Today, in 2025, without ever drawing any real tangible connection to Pompey’s heroics, I wear jersey number 77 for the Philadelphia 76ers.

What a difference 186 years make.

To God be the Glory.

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Storm Forces Historic Shift in Bahamas Independence Traditions

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By Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

 

The Bahamas, July 9, 2025 – For over five decades, the annual Independence celebrations in The Bahamas have been a grand tradition, culminating in a vibrant gathering at Clifford Park in Nassau, where the nation first declared its independence on July 10, 1973.  However, this year, inclement weather has forced an unprecedented change to the celebrations, leaving many to reflect on how nature’s unpredictable power can alter even the most cherished of traditions.

The Office of the Independence Secretariat announced today that, due to severe weather conditions, the traditional in-person festivities would not take place as planned.  Instead, the celebrations will proceed as a televised-only event, ensuring that citizens can still participate from the safety of their homes.  This marks a dramatic departure from the usual spectacle at Clifford Park, where thousands gather each year to watch the raising of the flag and partake in cultural performances.

Tonight’s program will be broadcast live, beginning with the Ecumenical Service at 9:00 p.m. from Bahamas Harvest Church, followed by the Raising of the Flag at 11:20 p.m. at Clifford Park. The Cultural Show, a highlight of the event, has been postponed, with organizers promising a new date following further weather assessments.

The decision, made in consultation with relevant agencies, reflects the committee’s commitment to the safety and well-being of the public. While it is a departure from tradition, the shift to a televised format ensures that the spirit of celebration can still unite the nation, even in the face of adversity. As Bahamians adjust to this new reality, the 52nd Independence anniversary will undoubtedly be remembered as one where the resilience of a nation shone through—both in weathering the storm and in finding new ways to honor its independence.

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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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