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World’s wealthiest expected to bid on Paradise Island Showpiece, $28+ Million Waterfront Home Opens for Bidding on Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions Website March 10

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#TheBahamas, February 27, 2023 – Elisium, a 20,000-square-foot, 9-bedroom, 11-bath show-stopping, jaw-dropping residence in Ocean Club Estates on Paradise Island in The Bahamas, is expected to draw a fiercely competitive field of bidders when the bidding officially opens, without reserve, on March 10 via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions.

A spokesman for Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions, the world’s largest luxury real estate auction marketplace, said they have already seen interest in the never-before-lived-in estate.

“It’s extremely encouraging to see so much early interest in a property weeks before the auction even opens for bidding,” said Danny Prell, Vice President, Business Development.

“The answer to early interest lies partly in the property itself, but additionally in its premier location,” says Prell, an opinion shared by Christopher ‘CJ’ Ansell, the local cooperating broker for the sale.

“The property known as Elisium is a one-of-a-kind offering,” said Ansell, whose performance earned him Circle of Excellence status at Nassau-based Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty in 2022.

“The estate, not only beautiful in and of itself with exquisite attention to detail around every turn, is also the only residence in the famed Ocean Club Estates that enjoys both a harbour and ocean view and the only property with both marina basin dock and private beach. There is absolutely no other property like it.”

The attention to detail Ansell notes begins from the moment of entry, where individuals step onto perfectly polished and seemingly seamless porcelain floors that appear as is if they are floating. The 28-foot-high arched windows frame crystal blue waters, and sky lighting up the entry living area soaks the space in natural light.

“That light alone and the clean, inviting whites in the furniture paired with dark wood trim adds a touch of contrast,” says Ansell. “It sets the tone for the rest of the experience with the space telling a story that says immediately, ‘You are in The Bahamas, welcome home to a world of light and beauty.”

If Ansell waxes eloquent on the property, it’s hard not to.

“A labor of love, the current owners spent four years constructing what was meant to be their forever home. With a keen eye for fine details and personal touches, the owners’ taste for luxury design is sure to benefit the next buyer.”

Those personal touches are evident from the moment you enter the gated estate. Leading to the front door is a boardwalk over a saltwater pond, stocked with starfish, jellyfish, and other species. Massive double doors open to an entryway with two 11-foot-high aquariums, and from there, the uninterrupted vistas fill your senses.

“The kitchen is so untouched that no one has ever even had a cup of coffee in it,” says Ansell, while opening the doors of two dishwashers, a wall-length concealed Subzero fridge and freezer, a chef’s stove, and microwaves, revealing operations manuals still in their cellophane wrappers.

Twin staircases lead to the second floor joining at a landing with another magazine-worthy view. An intimate dining area for up to eight persons is situated just off the elevator leading to the second floor. Two thickly carpeted, self-sufficient suites are accessible by stairs or elevator.

The third floor is devoted to a full-on breathtaking primary suite as well as a smaller space, poised as a nursery or private office. That attention to detail shines yet again in even in the bathrooms with flowing grains of marble matching to perfection through bends, corners, and rounds, reflecting the master craftsmanship.

“You see that excellence again and again,” says Ansell, “throughout the supersized closets with finely detailed, extensive built-ins. You see it in the bathrooms with his and her dressing spaces, extravagant free-standing tubs, radiant heated towel bars, and the stamped Elisium name.”

Outdoors, the property showcases two swimming pools, one specifically designed with a faux coral climbing area, a private beach, and a separate play area for kids and their parties.

According to Prell, while the estate and its features are in a class of their own, Elisium’s location puts it on the global map.

“From the moment the first lots were sold in the late 1990s to today—almost 25 years later—Ocean Club Estates has not only retained its place in the somewhat rarefied air of the most desirable places on earth to live, the properties have consistently appreciated in value,” said Prell. “Access to Four Seasons Ocean Club, Atlantis resorts, automatic approval for the Ocean Club membership privileges for those who wish to join, and the amenities in the Estates community itself—golf, tennis, restaurants—make it the luxury location of choice.”

The bidding officially opens on March 10 on casotheby’s.com, and, while listed at $28.8 million, the estate is being offered without reserve.

For even more Caribbean luxury, view Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions’ additional offerings, including a 3-bedroom tower villa with 360-degree mountain & Caribbean ocean views in St. Vincent & The Grenadines, a private 186-acre Bahamian island chain with development potential, or an exclusive villa boasting with extensive indoor and outdoor living spaces, set in Sundance Ridge on St. Kitts.

 

Photo Captions: 

Header:  Interest is already being shown well ahead of the opening date of March 10 for online bidding via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions on the Elisium estate, a 20,000 square foot showpiece of stunning design and master craftsmanship in world-renowned Ocean Club Estates, Paradise Island, Bahamas.

1st insert: The 28-foot high windows fill the entry living area with light, providing a sense of place and an invitation to breathe deeply and unwind. Light fills nearly every space at Elisium, the 20,000 square foot,  9-bedroom, 11-bath estate in Ocean Club Estates, Paradise Island, Bahamas, that goes on auction via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions March 10.

2nd insert: Elisium baths reflect stunning design tails and master craftsmanship that explain its $28.8 million valuation. Note the perfection in flowing marble around corners, bends and throughout the walls. Interest in the never-lived-in grand estate is already being shown ahead of online bidding that starts  March 10 via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions.

3rd insert: One of two pools at Elisium, Paradise Island, the lagoon pool with rock and boulder wall overlooks the water and private beach while a second expanded lap pool runs the length of the main house.

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PAHO launches award to recognize Caribbean leadership in the fight against superbugs

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Bridgetown, Barbados, 5 September 2025 (PAHO/WHO) — The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has launched the Suzan McLennon-Miguel Caribbean Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Leadership Award, a new regional honor recognizing exceptional leadership in the fight against antimicrobial resistance—a growing global health threat often referred to as the “silent pandemic.”

The award celebrates the legacy of Dr. Suzan McLennon-Miguel, a Jamaican veterinarian whose three-decades career spanned veterinary public health, disaster response, food safety, and AMR advocacy. Affectionately known as “Doc Sue,” she was a passionate champion of the One Health approach, which unites human, animal, and environmental health to tackle complex health challenges like AMR.

PAHO welcomes the nominations of individuals or organizations from across the Caribbean who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to addressing AMR. Eligible nominees may include those who have led impactful community-based AMR initiatives; contributed to education, policy, or public health solutions; or advanced research or innovation using a One Health lens. Self-nominations are encouraged.

Nominations are open until 30 September 2025, and the winner will be announced on 18 November 2025, during World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week.

Celebrating a legacy of Caribbean leadership

Dr. McLennon-Miguel passed away in July 2023 after a battle with cancer, but her influence continues to shape public health in the Caribbean. She led animal health responses during the 2021 volcanic eruption in St. Vincent and served as a food safety specialist at the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) in Suriname.

Her impact extended beyond science and policy. In Jamaica, she created “Doc Sue’s Happy Rooms”—colorful spaces in hospitals where sick children could play, learn, and dream. “It’s more than a playroom,” she said. “It’s a place where children can start dreaming of what they want to be in the future.”

The awardee will be invited to PAHO’s Headquarters in Washington, D.C. for meetings with regional experts, participation in strategic AMR discussions, and the opportunity to showcase their work. They will also receive a commemorative plaque.

“AMR threatens lives across the Caribbean, from routine infections to critical treatments like cancer care,” said Pilar Ramon-Pardo, Chief, Antimicrobial Resistance Special Program at PAHO. “This award celebrates Dr. McLennon-Miguel’s legacy by recognizing leaders who are building a healthier future.”

A panel of experts from PAHO and international partners will select the winner based on impact, innovation, collaboration, and sustainable contributions to AMR efforts.

Why AMR matters

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites stop responding to the medicines used to treat them. This makes common infections harder—and sometimes impossible—to cure. In the Caribbean, AMR threatens everything from routine infections to surgeries and cancer care, placing decades of public health progress at risk.

PAHO is stepping up its efforts to combat AMR in the Caribbean by strengthening surveillance, expanding laboratory capacity, promoting responsible use of antibiotics, and fostering One Health partnerships. These efforts are supported by the UK Government’s Fleming Fund and new South-South cooperation initiatives.

By honoring leaders like Dr. McLennon-Miguel, this award aims to inspire bold action to curb superbugs and safeguard the region’s health.

Download the nomination form (PDF) and read the full call for nominations (PDF).

For questions or to submit a nomination, please contact Franka Des Vignes at desvigfra@paho.org or Nathalie El Omeiri at elomeirin@paho.org, using the subject line: Suzan McLennon-Miguel Award nomination.

Links

Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance in the Caribbean – PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization

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Caribbean News

Caribbean Democrat Union Hails JLP Victory Amid Low Turnout

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Jamaica, September 6, 2025 – The Caribbean Democrat Union (CDU) has extended warm congratulations to the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) on its resounding success in the September 3 general election, securing its third consecutive term in office.

Preliminary results show the JLP, led by Prime Minister-Elect Andrew Holness, won 34 of the 63 parliamentary seats, while the opposition People’s National Party (PNP) claimed 29 seats, solidifying the JLP’s parliamentary majority. Voter turnout was notably low, hovering around 38–39%, underscoring persistent challenges in civic engagement.

In its release, the CDU praised Holness’s “stellar leadership,” crediting his administration with economic transformation, strengthened democratic governance, and tangible improvements in citizens’ lives. The JLP victory was described not just as a national triumph but “a moment of pride for all who believe in democracy, prosperity, and freedom across the Caribbean.”

Holness framed the win as a mandate for continuity, pledging more economic reforms—some of which include lowering income tax and raising the national minimum wage, initiatives he championed during the campaign. The low turnout, however, casts a shadow over the scale of his electoral support, prompting concerns from democratic watchers.

The CDU reaffirmed its solidarity with the JLP as it embarks on this new term, signaling strong regional support for the continuing leadership of Holness. The statement positions Jamaica—and the broader Caribbean—as committed to democratic stability and prosperity.

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Caribbean News

US Strike on Venezuelan Drug Boat Sparks Fierce Caribbean Divisions

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Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

 

September 6, 2025 – In a dramatic escalation along the southern Caribbean, U.S. forces on September 2 launched a military strike on a boat allegedly carrying illicit narcotics from Venezuela.  Officials say the strike killed 11 members of the Tren de Aragua cartel, which the U.S. has designated a terrorist organization, part of a broader “war on narco-terrorism” tied to the deadly spike in fentanyl and other drug deaths among Americans.

Within CARICOM ranks, reactions were deeply divided.  Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, voiced unequivocal support—saying drug traffickers “should be killed violently,” citing the nation’s struggle against cartel-driven violence and addiction.

Conversely, Barbados Foreign Minister Kerrie Symmonds and other regional diplomats expressed reservations about the U.S. operation’s legality, calling for greater diplomatic coordination and transparency to prevent further destabilization.

On the U.S. domestic front, Democratic lawmakers demanded answers.  Many were excluded from a scheduled briefing, fueling concerns over executive overreach.  Critics questioned the legality of a lethal strike in international waters without Congressional approval, warning of constitutional and international law violations.

A former Biden administration official, Juan González, also warned that the U.S. risks becoming entangled in a “disastrous” intervention in Venezuela—a conflict scenario more complex than past U.S. operations in the region.

In response to mounting regional pressure, the U.S. is ramping up its military presence.  Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth vowed continued operations against narco-terrorists.  The Pentagon has deployed ten F-35 stealth fighter jets to Puerto Rico as part of a broader naval and air buildup.  Senator Marco Rubio echoed the aggressive stance, stating more such strikes “will happen again.”

Meanwhile, Venezuela denounced the strike and dismissed U.S. claims as fabricated.  Venezuelan officials pointed to the video evidence released by President Trump as misleading or manipulated.

What’s at Stake:

  • International law & sovereignty: Experts have questioned the legality of using lethal military force against suspected traffickers on the high seas without clear legal justification.
  • CARICOM unity: The divided responses highlight deeper tensions over U.S. security policy and Caribbean sovereignty.
  • Escalating militarization: The strike signals how Washington is blending drug interdiction with geopolitical pressure on Caracas, setting the stage for ongoing regional friction.

As Washington defends the strike as necessary for protecting American lives against a fentanyl-fueled crisis, Caribbean leaders worry the fallout may bring greater instability, not safety.

PHOTOS: Screenshots from U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) video

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