Bahamas News
BNT Members Take a Deep Dive into the Caves of Lucayan National Park at Special Event
March 11th, 2025 – Grand Bahama, Bahamas
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently provided its Grand Bahama members the opportunity to learn about the Lucayan National Park’s (LNP) remarkable underwater cave systems at a special event hosted on February 18.
The BNT “Members’ Mingle” took place at the Rand Nature Centre (RNC), where renowned cave diver and ecologist Cristina Zenato and underwater photographer Kewin Lorenzen gave a unique educational presentation.
Their captivating lecture took attendees on an informational deep dive into what is known to be one of the longest chartered underwater cave systems in the world – including the advanced technology used to study it and the role of conservation in protecting natural treasures and unique ecosystems like these. Zenato herself has spent more than 20 years doing extensive mapping of the caves at the LNP.
Guests learned about the intricate mapping and imaging techniques that allow scientists and photographers to document these delicate formations. Speakers Cristina Zenato and Kewin Lorenzen presented BNT Director of Parks Ellsworth Weir with a 3D-printed skull model – created using state-of-the-art photogrammetry techniques and photos taken within the LNP caves over time. This model will serve as a
valuable educational tool for students, researchers, members, and park visitors, helping to further the part of the organization’s work that focuses on education as an essential component in conservation.
The Members’ Mingle allowed attendees to celebrate their shared love for preserving The Bahamas’ natural beauty. It serves as part of a wider effort to engage BNT members with like-minded individuals, inspire conversations within the conservation community, and create meaningful experiences within national parks. Caribbean Wines & Spirits provided delightful wine tastings for the event.
BNT’s Membership Officer for Grand Bahama, Jinnel Sturridge, said: “Through special events like these, BNT members gain special access to our national parks, unique learning experiences, and opportunities to contribute to conservation.
“We encourage everyone to join the BNT family today and be part of the movement to protect The Bahamas’ national parks. This event highlighted the importance of national parks and the incredible work being done to document and preserve them. BNT membership is an investment in the future of The Bahamas. Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who simply wants to give back, your membership helps safeguard our islands’ ecosystems for generations to come. By becoming a BNT member, you help ensure these national parks continue to thrive, providing safe spaces for people to enjoy our wonderful biodiversity.”
The BNT extends its gratitude to Caribbean Wines & Spirits for its generous support of the event, as well as to their Grand Bahama membership community for attending the Members’ Mingle event.
To become a member of The Bahamas National Trust, visit https://bnt.bs/get-involved/become-a-member/.
To learn more about the BNT’s role in managing national parks, protecting wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs, and follow its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
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.
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