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Ministers declare 2022 NACAC Championships in GB a success

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By ANDREW COAKLEY

Bahamas Information Services

 

#FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas, August 24, 2022 – “We did it Grand Bahama!”

Those were the sentiments of Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey, during the closing ceremonies of the Anita Doherty North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) Open Track and Field Championships, on Sunday night at the Grand Bahama Sports Complex.

“Thank you so much for being a part of history and we’ve proven that if the opportunity presents itself again, we will be able to pull it off again,” Minister Moxey said, as fireworks erupted into the night sky, signaling the end of the three-day international meet.

What was meant to be the official closing out ceremony easily turned into a celebration, with athletes and fans alike enjoying the fireworks and Junkanoo rushout, featuring an impromptu performance by both Youth, Sports and Culture Minister, the Hon. Mario Bowleg and Minister Moxey.

Asked how she would describe the end of the three-day meet, Minister Moxey simply called it “a success!”  She said it was an amazing feeling to see Grand Bahama successfully pull off an international meet at the magnitude of NACAC.

“It feels like Grand Bahama is on the right track,” Minister Moxey said, while dancing with the Junkanoo music. “It feels like it is a new day for Grand Bahama with events and entertainment, which we have outlined in our Blueprint for Change, which talked about what we envisioned Grand Bahama could become. So I am excited about today because it’s only the beginning and it will only get better.

“I never doubted that we could pull this off. I know the potential for Grand Bahama Island. I know what we can do. I know that events and the orange economy is something where all Bahamians can benefit. So, it doesn’t matter how much money you have and it doesn’t matter the level of your resources, because anyone can make money in the orange economy when it comes to events and entertainment.  So, I just wanted to focus on that for our people, to give everyone a chance of survival.”

Minister Moxey said the successful hosting of the fourth edition of NACAC speaks to what Grand Bahama could do once given the opportunity. She pointed out the economic benefit of the meet, noting that Grand Bahamians across the board were able to benefit financially. From the hotels to taxi cab drivers, tour operators, straw vendors, restaurants and food vendors – all had an opportunity to make money from the three-day event.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg noted that the success of the 2022 NACAC was something officials had anticipated when the decision was made to host the meet on Grand Bahama.

“There were a few hiccups, but that’s life. We always have troubles and trials in life, but it’s what you do when you fall. You get back up and keep moving,” said Minister Bowleg. “At the end of the day, the main success was that we brought the economic boost that we felt Grand Bahama needed. The injection in the arm to get this island back up and running and bring the magic back to the Magic City.

“That’s what it’s all about. This administration wants to spread the wealth and make sure that the events we have in The Bahamas go to the Family Islands that can host them – and Grand Bahama is one of them. Grand Bahama is one island that we must get back up and running.”

The Youth, Sports and Culture Minister said that the 2022 NACAC is just the beginning for Grand Bahama. He said that there are a lot of things in the pipeline that the Government has on the horizon and Grand Bahama will be a part of those opportunities.

“This is the most medals we would have won at this level, so we want to enjoy this moment and celebrate Team Bahamas and if we get the opportunity to do it again, we will do it again in Grand Bahama,” said Minister Bowleg

“We don’t want hosting this kind of sporting event to be a one-time thing for Grand Bahama. We have so much more sporting events like this for Grand Bahama. In fact I have a surprise for Grand Bahama in March of next year. We have another big sporting event coming. Stay tuned.”

 

BIS Photos/Andrew Miller

Photo Caption: 

Header: Minister for Grand Bahama, theHon. Ginger Moxey (second from left) celebrates during a race at the Anita Doherty North American, Central American and Caribbean Association (NACAC) Open Track and Field Championships on Sunday, August 21, 2022.  Standing with Minister Moxey enjoying the Meet were Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg (left); President of NACAC, Mike Sands (third from left) and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Grand Bahama, Mr. Melvin Seymour (right)

1st insert: Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey poses for a photo with Silver medalist in the women’s 100m, Tynia Gaitor, who also ran the anchor leg for Team Bahamas in the women’s 4 x 100m.

2nd insert: Silver ladies

3rd insert: The Bahamian team won silver in the women’s 4 x 100m relay on the final day of competition of the Anita Doherty NACAC Open Track and Field Championships at the GB Sports Complex.  Making up the team were (from left) Devynne Charlton, Printassia Johnson, Anthonique Strachan and Tynia Gaither.

4th insert: Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mario Bowleg and Minister for Grand Bahama, Hon. Ginger Moxey poses for a photo with Jamaican track star Shericka Jackson, who won the gold medal in the women’s 100m.

Bahamas News

D-Squad Basketball Celebrates 20 years with CWCO’s Support  

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS (July 8, 2025) What began as a small effort to give young people a constructive outlet has grown into an impactful summer camp with participants benefiting from structured practices, personal development sessions, and opportunities to compete. This year marked two incredible decades since D-Squad Basketball has been shaping not just athletes, but leaders.

From day one, Consolidated Water (Bahamas) Ltd. (CWCO) has believed in the program’s mission to build character, discipline, and drive in the next generation of Bahamians through the game of basketball.

The D-Squad camp welcomes dozens of boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 19, offering structured training, mentorship, and a safe, empowering space to grow each year. With core values of drive, determination, dedication, and discipline at its foundation, the program has become a staple in the community. It has launched the dreams of young Bahamians and provided lifelong lessons both on and off the court.                                                                                                                                                                                                                         CWCO Board Member, Ethan Adderley, said “Investing in our youth is one of the most meaningful ways we can help build a stronger Bahamas. Programs like D-Squad Basketball offer structure, mentorship, and a sense of purpose. CWCO is proud to stand behind Coach McCoy and the work he’s doing to develop future leaders.”

The water supplier has funded equipment, uniforms, and other essential items so no child is left behind due to financial hardship. From first-time dribblers to college-bound athletes, D-Squad Basketball has reached hundreds of participants over the years.

Founder of D-Squad Basketball, Coach Harcourt McCoy, said, “D-Squad is more than basketball. It is a family, a mindset, and a movement.”

He added, “We have seen kids come through the program and go on to do great things, not just because they were good players, but because they learned how to push through, how to lead, how to believe in themselves. CWCO has been with us from the beginning, and thanks to their belief in our mission, we have been able to reach more children each year.”

As D-Squad celebrates this milestone year, CWCO is honored to continue investing in a program that proves what’s possible when a community comes together to lift its youth.

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Bahamas News

Carnival’s Celebration Key Set to Open July 19, 2025, Marking a Major Milestone for Grand Bahama

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Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

 

Grand Bahama, Bahamas, July 14, 2025 – The highly anticipated Celebration Key, Carnival Cruise Line’s newest private destination on Grand Bahama Island, is set to officially open on July 19, 2025. This momentous occasion is expected to be a game-changer for the island’s tourism and economy, ushering in a new era of opportunities for local residents and businesses.

The inaugural docking will feature the Carnival Vista, arriving at the port from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, with a grand opening ceremony scheduled for 10 a.m. Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy will lead the celebrations, highlighting the collaboration between Carnival and The Bahamas to bring this vibrant new destination to life.

Celebration Key is Carnival’s first major project on Grand Bahama in over two decades. The sprawling port features five uniquely themed areas, including the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons and the impressive 10-story Suncastle water playground. With a range of dining, entertainment, and retail options, the site promises an immersive experience tailored exclusively for Carnival guests.

Ahead of the grand opening, top Bahamian officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism Chester Cooper, Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey, and State Minister for Environment and Natural Resources Zane Lightbourne, toured Celebration Key. Their visit underscored the importance of this development for the island’s future and the broader tourism sector.

With its stunning natural beauty and fresh amenities, Celebration Key is poised to become a premier destination in the Caribbean cruise market — a win for Carnival, Grand Bahama, and The Bahamas as a whole.

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Bahamas News

Jazz Chisholm Named to 2025 MLB All-Star Game, Capping Comeback with Flair and Firepower

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Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

 

“I think I worked hard for it and earned it.”

Those were the words of Bahamian baseball star Jazz Chisholm Jr. after being named to the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, marking his second career selection.  The 27-year-old infielder will represent the New York Yankees at the Midsummer Classic, set for Tuesday, July 15 at 8:00 p.m. ET, live from Truist Park in Atlanta and broadcast on FOX.

The announcement comes as The Bahamas celebrates its 52nd year of Independence, amplifying the pride felt across the archipelago for one of its most beloved athletic sons.

Chisholm’s All-Star nod is particularly meaningful after he overcame an injury scare earlier in the season.  Since returning to action on June 3, he has been electric — batting .308 with eight home runs, 21 RBIs, and four stolen bases in just 29 games.  His season line now includes a .245 average, 15 home runs, 38 RBIs, and 10 steals in 59 games.

“You work hard, and to get the recognition, it’s amazing,” Chisholm said.  “It got harder once I got hurt, but I came back and got hot.”

Known as much for his on-field explosiveness as his off-field style, Chisholm teased his upcoming appearance at the All-Star red carpet with a signature swagger.  “I do have a fit in mind,” he said with a grin.  “But you guys will just have to see it.”

Chisholm joins Aaron Judge and Max Fried as the Yankees’ All-Star representatives.  Yankees manager Aaron Boone will lead the American League squad, after guiding New York to the AL pennant in 2024.

“What Jazz has been doing all year — hitting the ball all over the field, making some great plays — it’s been pretty great,” Judge said of his teammate.

For young Bahamians watching at home, Jazz is more than just a Major Leaguer.  He is a symbol of possibility, pride, and perseverance — especially during Independence week.  His journey from Nassau to Yankee Stadium continues to inspire.

As Bahamians across the nation tune in on Tuesday night, they’ll be watching not just an All-Star — but one of their own lighting up baseball’s brightest stage.

Let’s go, Jazz!

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