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Minister Halkitis opens BAF and Cash n’ Go in Grand Bahama

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By: Andrew Coakley

Bahamas Information Services

 

#Freeport, GB, The Bahamas, August 21, 2022 – Minister of Economic Affairs and Leader of Government Business in the Senate, Senator the Hon. Michael Halkitis says that Grand Bahama has a large role to play in the government’s national development plan.

Noting that the government is committed to fulfilling the vast potential for economic growth and diversification that has always existed in Grand Bahama, he said: “We have not yet tapped into Grand Bahama’s potential as a hub for Fintech.  The local farming and manufacturing industries still provide tremendous potential for development and expansion.  And we are in the early days yet of rebuilding the tourism industry.”

Minister Halkitis was the keynote speaker at the opening of Bahamas Assurance Financial’s (BAF) new offices, along with the new office for Cash n’ Go, August 12, 2022 in the Regent Center. The opening of the two new businesses is expected to create more job opportunities for Grand Bahamians.

Minister Halkitis said it was always intended for Grand Bahama to join New Providence as central pillars of the Bahamian economy.  Many people still fondly remember when Grand Bahama’s quality of life was unparalleled, said Minister Halkitis — “it is time to rebuild, restore and return to those days.”

He continued, to return to those days, “we not only need government resources and foreign direct investment, we also need Bahamian-owned businesses to lead the way. BAF Financial & Insurance, and Cash n’ Go, are two such Bahamian brands that are leading the way.

“In an ideal environment, this is exactly how it works: the government provides the infrastructure and paves the way for opportunity, while private sector minds provide market-driven solutions. BAF and Cash n’ Go represent Bahamian-led enterprise at its finest.”

Minister Halkitis noted that as the government seeks to improve the ease of doing business and facilitate economic growth; innovative businesses like BAF and Cash n’ Go will be the primary engines of growth for the local economy. He pointed out that every business that re-opens or expands in Grand Bahama is another small step in the right direction.

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey also congratulated BAF Financial and Cash n’ Go for the re-opening of their new locations in Freeport.  She noted that the BAF story of 2007 is one that characterizes Bahamian empowerment, when two young Bahamians, of humble beginnings pioneered the buy-out of one of the leading and the oldest insurance companies in the Bahamas. Those two business visionaries were I. Chester Cooper and John Wilson.

“This kind of story continues to be an inspiration to many young entrepreneurs in the Bahamas,” said Minister Moxey. “I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the leadership of BAF and Cash n’ Go for remaining a part of the Grand Bahama community. The relocation and opening of these new offices in the Regent Center is an indication of your level of confidence in this island.

“Both of these businesses provide employment and crucial services to the residents of Grand Bahama at a time when our island is still rebounding and rebuilding from the devastation caused by Hurricane Dorian.

“As the Member of Parliament for Pineridge, where these offices are located and as Minister for Grand Bahama, I would like to congratulate the executive team from both BAF and Cash n’ Go on the opening of your new location. Thank you for your investment in Grand Bahama and your contribution to the growth and development of the Grand Bahama economy.”

 

Photo Caption: Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey cut the cake to commemorate the opening of the new offices of BAF Financial and Cash n’ Go, during a celebration ceremony on Friday, August 12, 2022 in the Regent Center. Looking on is Minister of Economic Affairs, Sen. the Hon. Michael Halkitis (left) and Mr. Felix Stubbs, Chairman, Board of Directors BAF Financial (right).

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Monument Beverage Co. Caribbean Wines & Spirits Uniquely Bahamian Newest Product

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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.

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Lady Kayla Crowned Goombay Punch Cup Sailing Champion of 2025/2026

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L–R: Joss Knowles, Kianno Hutchinson, Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager at Caribbean Bottling Company and Dallas Knowles receiving a donation on behalf of the Exuma Sailing Club at the Long Island Regatta awards ceremony.

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.

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Caribbean Bottling Supports the 27th Basketball Smiles Week  

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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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