Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: PM Minnis Says Zorba’s Owners Show Confidence in GB’s Economy
#Bahamas, November 28, 2017 – Grand Bahama – Prime Minister, Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis noted Friday that it is unusual for a restaurant to retain all of its employees during a time of recession and economic hard times, and that the owners of Zorba’s Restaurant must be commended for not only maintaining the employment status quo, but also expanding their business and making a significant contribution to the economy of Grand Bahama.
“What is being demonstrated is the confidence that the owners of this business have in the Bahamian economy,” added Prime Minister Minnis. “Under ordinary circumstances, if a restaurant or business suffers from something as devastating as a fire, in many instances that business would close especially knowing the economy of the entire country was experiencing great difficulty.
“But Nick and Noelle, not only remained opened, they renovated and expanded. That demonstrates true confidence in this society.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks came during the re-opening ceremony of Zorba’s Restaurant and the launch of Zsa Zsa Mojito Bar in Port Lucaya Marketplace on Friday, November 24, 2017. Also attending the event were Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator the Hon. Kwasi Thompson and Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Michael Pintard.
The event was a celebration of commitment, tenacity and faith in Grand Bahama. Like many businesses in Grand Bahama, Zorba’s Restaurant and Agave Restaurant both suffered damage from recent hurricanes as well as the effects of the downturn in the Grand Bahamian economy. In addition, two months ago Zorba’s Restaurant was damaged by fire, forcing part of the restaurant to close.
In the midst of all of these trials, owners of Zorba’s and Agave Restaurant did not let go any of their 100 staff members. This, according to the Prime Minister, says a lot about the owners of the restaurants.
“We, the government did all we could during these times to try and stimulate business in the Marketplace area, and the Prime Minister’s office here in Grand Bahama held certain events in this Marketplace to help keep the businesses afloat,” said Prime Minister Minnis.
“Earlier today we launched an entrepreneurship program for young people, who will be given monies to start their respective businesses; and it is our hope that as those businesses grow, they will employ more people who in turn will have money to further support the Grand Bahama economy.”
As far as the re-opening of the Grand Lucayan resort is concerned, Prime Minister Minnis told the audience that they are even closer to a resolution and the sale of that hotel, during which time the resort would be renovated and re-opened.
“So, Grand Bahama is on the move,” said Prime Minister Minnis. “We will continue to work to stimulate the economy of Grand Bahama.”
Continuing, he said: “So, again, I want to congratulate the owners of these restaurants and thank them for their confidence in the Bahamian economy. I am certain that just as God blessed them in their business during hard times, God will continue to bless them and their staff in this new venture.”
By: Andrew Coakley (BIS)
Photo credit:
Header: HELPS CUT RIBBON – Prime Minister Hubert Minnis gets a hand in the cutting of the ribbon to Zsa Zsa Mojito Bar from the daughter of one of the owners of the bar, as well as a hand from Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Michael Pintard (right), during official opening ceremonies on Friday, November 24, 2017. (BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
Insert: PM RE-OPENS ZORBAS – Prime Minister, Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis was the keynote speaker during the re-opening of Zorba’s restaurant in Port Lucaya Marketplace on Friday, November 24, 2017. (BIS Photo/Lisa Davis)
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.
-
Education1 week agoDepartment of Education Concludes Four-Day TCI National Standards Secondary School Curriculum Implementation Training
-
Independent writer6 days agoFifty Years of Ministerial Government: Honouring Our Past, Embracing Our Present and Preparing for Our Destiny
-
News1 week agoUNDER 40 DAYS: COMMITTEE FORMED—BUT WHO IS ON IT?
-
Health5 days agoKnow the Possible Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer
-
News1 week agoInvest TCI Brings Entrepreneurs and Bankers to the Table
-
News3 days agoLiberty Business launches in Turks and Caicos Islands
-
Education3 days agoTCI Schools Invited to Participate in 2026 National Student Council Election