Bahamas News
Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association Launches “Forward Together” Initiative
| Engaged membership is essential for the region’s recovery and sustainability |
March 22, 2021 – As the Caribbean tourism and hospitality industry continues to respond and adapt to challenges arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the region’s leading association representing the interests of the private sector, has launched Forward Together, an initiative which encourages industry stakeholders to join their colleagues in supporting the trade association.
“With the growing deployment of vaccines worldwide, we are encouraged by industry research indicating that travelers’ views towards international travel are increasingly favorable, and confirming that Caribbean countries and territories continue to be some of the most desired destinations for leisure travel,” said Vanessa Ledesma, CHTA’s Acting CEO and Director General, who posits that CHTA’s ability to continue responding to the pandemic and support an accelerated recovery depends on the support of existing and new members, both large and small.
“For the past year CHTA has directed much of its attention towards the pandemic response as we have developed resources and programs to mitigate the impact of COVID-19, restore the viability of the hospitality and tourism sector, promote public health measures, and bolster traveler and employee confidence,” Ledesma noted.
In response to the needs of the industry, CHTA has developed an extensive collection of COVID-19 resources, including the Caribbean Tourism Health Safety Training Series, comprehensive industry health safety guidelines and related training endorsed by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA). The association also has hosted more than 25 live webinars addressing issues ranging from trends in travel demand and concerns over travel safety to risk management, as well as Caribbean Tourism Fireworks, a series of virtual press conferences providing destination updates to the industry, media and consumers.
Hoteliers, restaurateurs, banks, attractions, marketing agencies and other tourism-related partners who renew or sign up for a new CHTA membership enjoy access to hallmark events, such as the association’s annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace and the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF), several virtual events, and a range of educational tools and training materials. CHTA also offers a variety of services and products thanks to strategic partnerships with brands such as Amadeus, MasterCard, STR and Travelzoo, and the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.
“CHTA remains committed to this dynamic and essential industry, and to ensure our collective success, we need the support of our members,” added Ledesma.
Ledesma reminded stakeholders that for the first time in nearly 40 years, Caribbean Travel Marketplace, the premier annual gathering where Caribbean hospitality and tourism professionals meet with regional colleagues and international buyers and sellers, will be staged virtually this year.
The marketing event, now in its 39th edition, is traditionally held during January, but due to the impact of the pandemic on travel and in-person gatherings, the event will take place in an online environment from May 11-14, 2021.
To renew or sign up for a CHTA membership, visit http://www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com/forwardtogether.
Release: CHTA
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
Bahamas News
Bahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday
Turks and Caicos, August 20, 2026 – The planned participation of the Bahama Brass Band in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ inaugural Constitutional Holiday celebrations on August 30 has sparked public debate over culture, heritage and the historical contributions of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad.
Organizers defended the invitation, saying the band’s inclusion is intended to highlight the deep historical ties between the two countries
and honor Turks and Caicos men who helped establish and develop the institution in Grand Bahama.
According to the organizers, the Bahama Brass Band began in 1955 in Pine Ridge, Freeport, with Turks and Caicos Islanders, including the late Deacon Reuben Hall Sr. of Middle Caicos and Jenkins Williams and Mervin Hendfield of North Caicos, among those who helped build its foundation. The band eventually grew to more than 50 men.
The organizers also pointed to the participation of Turks and Caicos men in The Bahamas’ Independence celebrations on July 10, 1973, arguing that their contributions became part of Bahamian history while maintaining strong connections to their homeland.
Supporters say bringing the band home represents an opportunity to honor those pioneers, showcase their regional influence and expose younger generations to an important part of Turks and Caicos history.
However, concerns raised publicly described the invitation as potentially disrespectful to local culture and heritage. Organizers acknowledged those concerns, apologizing to anyone who felt overlooked or offended, while maintaining that no disrespect was intended.
The committee said the event should ultimately unite rather than divide, presenting the band’s history as evidence of the reach and resilience of Turks and Caicos heritage.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bahamas Brass Band
NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Dasani products, proudly sponsored the fifth annual, Caribbean Hoopfest.
The tournament brings together Bahamian high school basketball teams and visiting teams from the United States for a competitive
showcase at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium. Following its inaugural year at the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym and last year’s event at Loyola Hall, the tournament returned to the Kendal G. L. Isaacs gym this year.
During the weekend tournament, CBC kept athletes well hydrated with in-kind donations of Dasani Water, Powerade and Minute Maid Juices.
During the tournament’s final day, CBC provided additional support by offering Sprite No Sugar samples and inviting attendees to participate in its Spin the Wheel for a chance to win exciting prizes.
CBC was proud to support this incredible event, which provides young Bahamian athletes with valuable exposure to U.S. basketball scouts and coaches. This opportunity gives them the chance to earn scholarships, continue their education, and pursue their basketball careers in the United States.
Event organizer, Donald Francois shared his appreciation for CBC’s support.
“I want to express our sincere appreciation for Caribbean Bottling Company, who has been a tremendous supporter and an important part of the success of our program. Without CBC’s support, Caribbean Hoop Fest would not be able to function at the level it does today. And without Caribbean Hoop Fest, we would not have been able to provide the opportunities that have helped young Bahamian athletes gain exposure and pursue educational opportunities in the United States,” he expressed.
Since the program’s inception, several Bahamian student-athletes have been selected for scholarship opportunities, highlighting the
tournament’s growing impact on the development and advancement of young basketball talent in The Bahamas.
They are: Kelvin McDowells – Guard, Wodson Antoine – Power Forward, Justin Lafleur – Guard and Sean John – Guard.
After another successful edition of the tournament, Francois shared what he hopes he and Caribbean Bottling Company can achieve in the future.
“Our vision is bigger than basketball. We want to use the platform of Caribbean Hoop Fest to educate, develop, and create opportunities for young people and their families throughout the Bahamas. With individuals and organizations committed to our mission, we believe we can continue to grow the program and make an even greater impact,” Francois said.
For more details on community support, events and new products visit Caribbean Bottling Company at www.cbcbahamas.com today.
