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.

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.

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!