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Taylor and Travis get Webby nods

By MARK KENNEDY | AP Entertainment Writer

Taylor Swift and her Super Bowl-winning boyfriend Travis Kelce, along with Sydney Sweeney, Ryan Gosling and Timothee Chalamet, are among the nominees for this year’s Webby Awards, recognising the best internet content and creators.

The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences announced the nominees on Tuesday, the result of 13,000 entries from over 70 countries. The Associated Press got an early look.

Swift’s Instagram message encouraging her 283 million followers to register to vote was nominated in the best creator or influencer category. The website she directed her fans to — the nonpartisan Vote. org — recorded more than 35,000 registrations, according to the organization.

Kelce got a nomination in the best sports podcast category for teaming up with his brother Jason for their “New Heights” show. Speaking of couples, Michelle Obama got a nod for her “The Light Podcast” while her husband, former President Barack Obama, was nominated for his work with LinkedIn.

The awards are selected by the Academy, while The Webby People’s Voice Award is voted on by fans around the world. Voting for that award is open now until April 18. Winners for all awards will be announced May 13 at a ceremony hosted by “Late Night with Seth Meyers” writer and comedian Amber Ruffin.

Sweeney got a nod for collaborating with Ford Motor Company for a contest with the winner getting a 2024 custom Mustang GT designed by the actor. Paris Hilton was nominated for her 10-minute TikTok post about her family’s hotel brand.

“Ted Lasso” star Brett Goldstein got a nod for his podcast “Films to Be Buried With,” in which he brings on guests to discuss the movies that have most impacted their lives. He faces competition in the TV and film podcast category from podcasts about “The Crown,” “The Last of Us,” “Endeavor” and “And Just Like That...”

Chalamet was nominated in the media and entertainment branded content category for his ad for Apple TV+, a follow-up to last year’s campaign with Jon Hamm. The ad shows the “Dune” star enjoying the programming on Apple’s streaming service and wondering if he could do the projects. “Severance is weird. I could do weird,” Chalamet says.

Chalamet will face off against Ryan Gosling, who admitted his Barbie character, Ken, may have “stolen” one of BTS member Jimin’s signature looks. Gosling gave Ken’s prized guitar to Jimin to apologize.

Music video nominations were handed out to Doja Cat’s “Paint the Town Red,” Lil Nas X’s “J Christ,” Megan Thee Stallion’s “Cobra,” Olivia Rodrigo’s “Vampire” and new best new artist Grammy-winner Victoria Monet’s “On My Mama.”

The list of nominations also illustrate the impact of artificial intelligence, with several new categories for AI apps and experiences, like Burger King’s cheeseburger nuggets.

Companies earning the highest number of nominations are PBS with 20, Warner Bros. Discovery with 18, Netflix at 14, CNN with 13, and three tied with 11 each — Paramount, The Washington Post and MTV Entertainment.

books

24hacks to beat the hustle

By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN author Coach Ruth D Bowe is preparing her readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment as they dive into the pages of her newest book - “24 Hacks to Master the 24 Hourglass”.

For her, this book isn’t just about managing schedules, it’s about transforming a person’s relationship with time.

Through insightful hacks and practical advice, Coach Ruth D guides readers toward a harmonious balance between personal and professional life, ensuring that no moment is wasted in the pursuit of their dreams.

“In the hustle and bustle of modern life, time seems to slip through our fingers like grains of sand in an hourglass. But what if there was a way to seize control of time, to mold it to our advantage, and unlock our full potential?

“24 Hacks to Master the 24 Hourglass is a groundbreaking guide that promises to revolutionise the way we manage our time,” said the author.

Moreover, in celebration of Literacy Month this March, she believes there couldn’t be a more fitting time to delve into the significance of time mastery and its transformative power.

“This game-changing guide offers innovative strategies to make the most of every moment, equipping readers with the tools needed to conquer time constraints, achieve their goals, and optimise their lives.

“Whether you’re struggling to find time for everything or seeking to break free from the constraints of Bahamian time, this book is your roadmap to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life,” said Coach Ruth D.

In the new book, she said each hack offers practical insights, spiritual grounding, and motivational inspiration to help readers craft a unique sequence of success. From relatable scriptures to practical tools and activities, this book promises an immersive journey toward intentional living.

“The motivation for 24 Hacks to Master the 24 Hourglass stems from

my personal journey. My aspirations, though initially deferred, led me to embrace a unique path; one that highlighted the transformative power of time mastery. The name of the book reflects the notion that mastering time is akin to mastering the flow of sand in an hourglass, each moment precious and deserving of intentional attention,” she said.

“I’m eager to hear how Bahamians resonate with the book’s message and how it impacts their lives. Their feedback will provide valuable insights into the relevance and effectiveness of the hacks within the local context, helping me tailor future offerings to better serve the community.”

Through mindful application of the hacks, she said readers can achieve greater fulfilment and productivity in their daily lives.

Speaking of past projects, Coach Ruth D said last year she released “12 Keys to Blended Harmony”, a book designed to assist stepmothers in navigating the complexities of blended family dynamics. Additionally, she launched the “Dynamite Discussions” podcast, offering insightful conversations on personal development.

“If you had told me five years ago that this would be my future, I probably would not have believed it. As an author, reaching this milestone feels incredibly rewarding. Each step of this journey has been filled with passion, dedication, and growth. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my insights and experiences with readers worldwide, and I’m excited to see where the future leads,” said Coach Ruth D.

Readers are encouraged to pick up a copy of Coach Ruth D’s newest book, “24 Hacks to Master the 24 Hourglass” directly from her on (242) 422-5105, email dynamicdymentions@gmail.com, on Amazon, or at the All Season All Occasion Book and Gift Centre in Palmdale.

BAHAMIAN author Coach Ruth D Bowe

Eddie Daxon

Having never felt a conventional job was right for him, Eddie Daxon has taken a different path - becoming a successful, and prize-winning, balloon artist and magician. He talks to CARA HUNT about his career, and his latest success.

Eddie Daxon loves to bring joy to his clients and as an entertainer who specialises in balloon arts and magic, he recently was able to dazzle judges at an international convention with his amazing and uplifting talent.

“I never felt in my heart that I was cut out for a conventional job,” he explained when asked how he got started in this particular career.

He started by teaching himself the art of magic and then eventually expanded his entertainment repertoire by asking a local clown to teach him a few tricks of the trade when it came to balloon twisting and found a new career niche that has him all in knots.

Balloon twisting or modeling as it is sometimes called, is the art of using balloons to create animals and other shapes. People who create balloon animals and other twisted balloon decoration sculptures are called twisters, balloon benders, and balloon artists. Twisters often perform in restaurants, at birthday parties, fairs and at public and private events or functions.

“I really enjoy being an entertainer and being able to make people happy and take their minds off whatever it is they are going through and just be present in the moment,” he told Tribune Weekend

Daxon operates his business, Magic for the People, fulltime, working at top hotel resorts and events, and gives back to the community by working with non-governmental organisations.

And he also works to gain new ideas and exposure and connect with other industry professionals by attending various conventions for the past several years.

“There are several of them that cater to specific fields of entertainers, like face painters, jugglers, caricature artists and of course balloon twisters. I think it was back in 2017, when I attended my first balloon twisting convention and you can always learn something new. I had heard a lot about them and had saved up to be able to attend. At these conventions, they have twisting competitions and I was so impressed and wanted to try it out. I knew that I wasn’t at that level yet, I just went ahead and entered it for the experience, but it was something that I knew I wanted to return and place well in.”

Eddie attended the Twist & Shout Balloon Convention in Chicago, Illinois, last month. The convention is an annual event involving education, camaraderie, competitions, and the latest innovation where the most talented “twisters” in the world participate.

And while he had hoped to at least place in one of the categories, he actually did much better than he hoped, bringing home three awards.

Daxon placed third in the ten-minute timed competition by making a turtle, and in the stage performance event, where he presented a choreographed story through acting and balloons, showcasing originality and technical skills. He placed second in the 12-minute timed competition by shaping a large headpiece.

“I left home determined to win at something but was surprised and shocked when I earned three wins among hundreds of competitors,” he said.

“I made a new turtle design that I learned in January at another convention from Mr Jack, a German balloon artist who gave me his blessing to use it in this competition. Also, other balloon instructors contributed, giving me an edge,” he explained.

The balloon artist was ecstatic over his wins and the opportunity to showcase his expertise.

“Because I made the large duck headpiece for the tourists at home and other clients, I was comfortable doing so. I was grateful that it earned me second place in the 12-minute competition.”

“We are thrilled to present Eddie Daxon with these well-deserved awards,” said Patty Sorell, organiser of Twist & Shout, now in its 25th year. “Their creativity in the various events is a fantastic showcase of their abilities in a high-pressure international competition. The highest points earned determine the winner’s placement, and 223 competitors from over 12 countries battled it out to win prestige in the industry.”

EDDIE Daxon with winners USA

EDDIE Daxon with his turtle balloon

EDDIE Daxon with fellow competitors

Best described as a number crossword, the task in Kakuro is to fill all of the empty squares, using numbers 1 to 9, so the sum of each horizontal block equals the number to its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the number on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once. The difficulty level of the Conceptis Kakuro increases from Monday to Sunday.

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday

HOW many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters shown here?

In making a word, each letter may be used once only. Each must contain the centre letter and there must be at least one nine-letter word. No plurals. Verb forms ending in S permitted.

Yesterday’s Sudoku Answer

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

Yesterday’s Easy Solution

Across: 1 Catch it, 5 Sharp, 8 Up to speed, 9 Lay, 10 Hulk, 12 Likewise, 14 Caving, 15 Flaunt, 17 Solution, 18 Serf, 21 Ape, 22 All thumbs, 24 Ditty, 25 Runaway.

Down: 1 Crush, 2 Tot, 3 Hash, 4 Thesis, 5 Suddenly, 6 At leisure, 7 Payment, 11 Level best, 13 Unsteady, 14 Custard, 16 Collar, 19 Fishy, 20 Shun, 23 Maw.

Yesterday’s Cryptic Solution

Across: 1 Head off, 5 Anger, 8 Bandstand, 9 Ass, 10 Side, 12 Sheepdog, 14 Call in, 15 Across, 17 Advances, 18 Veer, 21 Tor, 22 Out of play, 24 Cadet, 25 Certain.

Down: 1 Hobos, 2 Awn, 3 Oust, 4 Flashy, 5 Audience, 6 Grandiose, 7 Resigns, 11 Delivered, 13 Signpost, 14 Chaotic, 16 Hectic, 19 Rayon, 20 Afar, 23 Lea.

EASY PUZZLE

(5)

5 Thorn, 6 Overage, 7 Hairdresser, 8 Secret agent, 14 Frontal, 16 Foppish, 17 Enigma, 19 Links, 21 Often.

THE ALPHABEATER

GUARANTOR

CAN you crack the Alphabeater? Each grid number represents a letter – or black square. As in Alphapuzzle, every letter of the alphabet is used. But you have to complete the grid too! Use the given letters and black squares below the grid to start. The grid is ‘rotationally symmetrical’ – in other words, it looks the same if you turn the page upside down.

Solution tomorrow

agar angora aorta argon argot arrant arrogant aura aurora gran grant grantor groan groat grot grout grunt GUARANTOR organ raga ragout rang rant roan roar rort rota rout rung runt tarn taro tarragon torn torr tour trug turgor turn

Across: Bedtime, Nominal, Juicy, Zoomed, Flit, Await, Knew, Down: Action, Omnivore, Piston, Modulate, Bane, Nylon,

Yesterday’s Kakuro Answer

FIND where the fleet of ships shown is hidden in the grid. The numbers to the right of and below the grid indicate how many of the squares in that row are filled in with ships or parts of ships. The ships do not touch each other, even diagonally. Some squares have been filled in to start you off. Solution tomorrow

● Alternatively, for six Extra Letter clues to your mobile, text DXBEAT to 64343. Texts cost £1 plus your usual operator

Masons are a gardener’s friend

Good day, gardeners. How does your garden grow? We’re approaching the last few weeks of cooler nights, and the days are beginning to get noticeably warmer (as we may be having our last cool front for the year?) as well as the day length increasing each day until June 20 when it will be the summer solstice.

This means that tender greens and vegetables have only a few more weeks of peak production unless you’re able to provide a cool location with a bit of shade.

In the landscape, if the plants aren’t shooting new growth by now, then it’s time to fertilise as the ground is most likely lacking a lot of essential nutrients. I’ve been on a landscape installation for the last few weeks and the material that we’ve put in the ground is filling out rapidly by shooting new buds and fresh growth, quickly. It’s almost as if I can see a noticeable difference each morning that I look around.

I’ve come across several locations where we’re running into rock or conduits and piping that were installed all willy nilly by various trades people. Usually, these conduits and pipes take the easiest and most direct route, with no thought towards the eventual landscape design or additional installations needed where digging into the ground may be needed.

In these cases, digging into the ground is often a quick path to frustrations yielding poor future results. The solution: build up.

I always install raised beds in these instances to provide for problem free plumbing, electrical, and design features far into the future. The importance of placing the right plant in the right place can not be overstated. If something isn’t working in a particular location, dig it up and move it!

It helps to have the assistance of a master gardener, a professional landscape designer, or a qualified horticulturist. In lieu of any of that, ask questions!

A top-notch garden centre will not hesitate to answer any and all questions, but I’d still recommend asking elsewhere as some so-called reputable garden centers are also known to

give answers that suit their bottom line as compared to the best interest of you, the customer. This exists everywhere. Basic business ethics will vary place to place.

Products vary as well, but don’t be caught up in price, quality is key to a successful garden. As I’ve mentioned time and again, fertilisers are a very good example of a product where price often does directly relate to quality. The higher the price, the

During the fiasco of control during the so-called pandemic, wooden raised garden beds were the hottest garden item to have. As all trends go, that one too went the way of most others and faded away. The continuing benefit of avoiding digging into the ground is ease of access. Most plants can be installed into raised beds, the only things I’d suggest against using are trees that need lots of area for roots and growth.

Most palms (excluding the very large growers such as royal, washingtonia, etc), shrubs, and flowering plants can be installed in raised garden beds. I find increased results having a mason install retaining walls and raised concrete garden beds in most situations with the exception of those just mentioned.

Another benefit is that once built, the addition of a high quality top soil, compost, peat moss, pine bark mixes etcetera, leads to a much more productive soil base for whatever is being grown, palms, shrubs, annuals, perennials, herbs or vegetables.

Breaking pipes or coming a bit too close to being electrocuted typically isn’t on the list of good times. Avoid having issues with broken pipes, disrupted electrical or communication lines by calling the mason and have them build up! As always, I wish you happy gardening.

higher the quality or availability of the ingredients. Other basic products can differ in price all over the board.

My point is that when building raised garden beds on a construction site or at a home where there may be pipes and conduits running underground in all sorts of indistinguishable directions, the first call goes out to the masons who construct the raised garden beds.

weddings

EQUIPPING brides and grooms with all the right tools to pull off a uniquely personalised wedding day with minimal headache and less overspending is the goal of The Bahamas Bridal Show this weekend.

Bahamas Bridal Show is the one for you

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net

More than 40 wedding specialists and vendors will gather for “The One For Me” production of the 34th annual Bahamas Bridal Show, by Buttons Bridal and Formal Wear and Bahamas Events and Sports.

Prepare yourself for the ultimate wedding experience on Sunday at the Baha Mar Convention Centre. It’s no secret, planning a wedding is a huge undertaking and if you don’t know where to begin, the task can seem insurmountable.

This is why organisers of this weekend’s event have brought together a number of bridal experts to show brides and grooms what is possible for their big day.

“Most of the country’s major wedding and home suppliers will put on display their products and services inside the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Convention Centre to impress brides, grooms,” said Tommy Stubbs, the event’s executive producer.

“Delightful exhibits. Food and champagne sampling. A spectacular fashion. Games and wedding demonstrations. Gifts galore. We left no stone unturned to assemble the finest vendors in the Bahamas under one roof on a single day,” he aid.

“And we are grateful that the companies have accepted our invitation gracefully.”

A major highlight of the Bridal Show is the fashion production that exhibits some of the latest in bridal and formal wear while also entertaining audiences.

“The bridal show won’t be more exciting without a fashion show. It’s the trademark of the event by Buttons Bridal and Formal Wear and Studio28 Boutique. All of the scenes are theatrically performed by models – who will receive make-up by Eye Candy - to give couples ideas when it’s their time to walk down the aisles.”

Then there are the games: Gone Shopping and The Nearly Wed Game

Show has returned to the stage. There’s even a new DJ (DJ Ant) to keep the crowd pepped up all day.

“We’re delighted that you’ve decided to take the leap into a marriage relationship,” said Makeva Wallace, event coordinator for the show. “Now it’s time to get your tickets – and bring the entire bridal party with family and friends - to enjoy the show and patronise these businesses that are preparing to greet you. This is where wedding dreams begin.

“As you plan your wedding celebration, we invite you to consider giving some of your business to the wonderful wedding and home suppliers that will gather at the show to offer you their products, services and share their expertise, and offer sound advice for the future.”

Among those exhibiting will be Blue Lagoon Island, Azure Aviation and Imports Export, Willow Events Bahamas, New Providence Life, Beyond

The Décor, Top Builder’s & Repairs, Sapodilla Weddings and Events and Colina Insurance.

“It was important for us to cover business areas that couples need to help them start their lives as husband and wife, from the wedding day and honeymoon travel to buying a new home and insurances,” said Stubbs, who created the show in 1990. “Our brides and grooms deserve more and that’s what wanted to give them.”

Bahamas is recognised as one of the finest honeymoon and vacation destinations in the world, and the Ministry of Tourism, Warwick Paradise Island Resort, SLS Baha Mar, Bahama Out Island Promotion Board and Sandyport Beach Resort will be on hand to demonstrate why.

Aside from enjoying the fabulous exhibits, attendees will have the pleasure of sampling fine wines and spirits from Liquid Courage, wedding cake

by The Boutique Cake, food samples by Fusion Superplex and Bertha’s Catering.

They will have the opportunity to discuss financial planning with representatives of Cash ‘N Go, Easy PayDay and CIBC First Caribbean Bank. Reviv Bahamas will launch its business which provides health energy boast.

Typically, there are $30,000 worth of prizes that are given to couples in attendance at the show. This year is no exception. Apart from exhibitors giving away prizes, others will share the love, including a honeymoon stay by Comfort Suites Paradise Island. The grand prize also features almost everything a bride would need for her wedding day.

Couples can register for a chance to win prizes online at www.buttonsformalwear or www.bahamasevents.net

For more information, contact 242-421-9783.

Fettuccine in the name of charity

By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net

WHEN he is not out of the country on a celebrity booking, chef Joel (Jay) Johnson is somewhere out on the ocean yachting while doing what he loves most - providing a culinary experience.

And even with all this on his plate, the Bahamian chef tries his best to keep philanthropy and charity work as a highlight in his career. Today, he speaks with Tribune Weekend about his most recent event, the “Chef Jay Charity Pop Up” held at the Children’s Emergency Hostel, Carmichael Road.

In a specially curated fettuccine menu, Chef Jay’s catering offered for sale sautéed chicken, seafood and stuffed salmon.

“The main point of the charity pop-up is the cause of awareness, and to hopefully start a domino effect where people can be like, oh, I now know where this place is. For me, I also want to help the kids out, and then be able to donate as well,” said Chef Jay.

When he first heard about the hostel, Chef Jay said he honestly did not know it existed. Since becoming involved, it has opened his eyes to so much insight.

He said: “When I did a walk-through, I saw three rooms that were filled with just toys. But children also need clothing, food, school supplies and more. So I wanted to start this initiative to show that kids are humans too, they need much more than just the video games. They need just what your own kids would need.

“Hopefully this starts a chain reaction. I’m trying to let this be a stepping stone in a sense, to provide awareness to help the kids as much as we can. I also want to help out the staff that works here as well because it’s like 15 to 20 people (staff), and about 30 kids, with a few of them being special needs; and this can be a hassle.”

When it comes to using his platform to promote awareness events like this - Chef Jay said it is always surprising to find out who’s watching.

“Especially in this day and age of social media content and whatnot, a lot of people are living life vicariously through others. I know I have a platform, even though it may be a small platform, I know if I start it, somebody else is watching me could be like, oh, I want to help in this way as well. Then somebody watching that person can be like, oh, I want to help as well. As long as you spread the word, you get on from there,” he said.

With more than ten years in the culinary industry, working alongside many great chefs and in many world-renowned restaurants, Chef Jay was able to sharpen his craft mastering Thai, Japanese, Mediterranean, French and American cuisine. With his knowledge and experience, he also became a private chef and a foodservice consultant.

Now with Chef Jay Catering, he is ready and willing to take on all tasks presented to him with a beautiful execution of both flavour and presentation.

“I started Chef J Catering in 2019. Since branching off, it’s been great. I have absolutely no regrets in the slightest of it. I met a lot of lot of clients, a lot of cool celebrities as well. That, plus my craft, kind of boosts me to where I am right now. And just making sure my brand speaks for itself,” said Chef Jay.

He said the charity pop-up’s menu is an old past-time favourite of his. He remembers earning extra cash back in the day by hosting lunch themed “pasta pasta” pop-ups.

He said: “I used to spend like two days out of the week, just delivering lunch. With this, I figured since I haven’t done it in literally like four or five years now, it’ll be cool to help people out and get the biggest support I can get. I’m just really focused on making sure the kids are straight. A lot of the young men here, they need a mentor. So even though I don’t have much time, I like to pass by, like how I’m prepping (food) right now. I have the young guys in the kitchen with me.

“I’m just teaching them a few things, trying to pick their brain on things they’re thinking about, how they’re feeling, things they need and you know, after a while I am able to give them advice on certain things.”

Moreover, Chef Jay was happy to share that he has received amazing feedback from the Bahamian people with regard to the charity event.

“As a matter of fact, I made a post on Facebook thanking everyone who was supporting me for years. It is a post that was long overdue. I thanked people who donated for the event, things like frozen goods, clothing and other things for the kids. It has really been a positive experience,” he said.

“I have had multiple people whom I don’t know, just find my number and asked how they can assist or

help. Some people donated a whole bed set. There was a carpenter who donated in time and talent by revamping and fixing the doors at the hostel. It was really helpful.”

For the remainder of the year, Chef Jay said he does have a number of things planned for hosting.

“I don’t want to say too much but these are things that I have been talking about for quite a while. Now that I am back in The Bahamas and I have the time, I will explore more culinary events,” said Chef Jay.

BB King

Part One (1925-2015)

Sir Christopher Ondaatje writes about the American blues guitarist, singer and songwriter who introduced a sophisticated style of guitar soloing based on fluid string bending, shimmering vibrato and staccato picking that influenced many later blues electric guitar players. Allmusic recognised King as “the single most important electric guitarist of the last half of the 20th century”.

“The blues was bleeding same blood as me. The blues didn’t have to explain the mystery of pain that I felt; it was there in the songs and voices of singers like Lonnie Johnson and Blind Lemon Jefferson, in the cries of their guitars.”

BB King

BB King was born Riley B King on 16 September 1925, on a cotton plantation of Berclair named Bear Creek in Leflore County, near the city of Itta Bena, Mississippi, Alabama. When King was four years old, his mother left his father for another man, so he was raised by his maternal grandmother, Elnora Farr, in Kilmichael, Mississippi, then in Lexington. As a teenager he moved

to Indianola, and later worked in a cotton gin. He served in the US Army during World War II, but was released as being “essential to the war economy”, based on his experience as a tractor driver.

While very young King sang in the gospel choir at Elkhorn Baptist Church in Kilmichael. He was attracted to the Pentecostal Church of God in Christ because of its music. The local minister performed with a Sears Roebuck Silverton guitar during services and taught King his first three chords. King’s first guitar was bought for him by Flake Cartledge, his employer in Kilmichael, for $15. Cartledge withheld money from King’s salary for the next two months until the debt was repaid.

In November 1941 King Biscuit Time first aired, broadcasting on KFFA in Helena, Arkansas. It was a radio show featuring the Mississippi Delta Blues. King heard it while on a break at a plantation. Although on the way to becoming a self-taught guitarist, he then wanted to become a radio musician.

King left Kilmichael to work as a tractor driver and play guitar with the Famous St John’s Gospel Singers of Inverness, Mississippi, performing at area churches and a WGRM in Greenwood.

In 1946, King followed “Bukka” White, a well-known Delta Blues guitarist, to Memphis, Tennessee. White took him in for the next ten months, after which he returned to Mississippi, where he practised what he had learned from “Bukka” White, who really was a slide guitarist. Two years later, he returned to West Memphis, Arkansas, and performed on Sonny Boy Williamson’s radio programme on KWEM in West Memphis, where he began to develop an audience. King’s appearances led to steady engagements at Sixteenth Avenue Grill in West Memphis, and later to a ten-minute spot on the Memphis Radio station WDIA. The radio spot became so popular that it was expanded and became the Sepia Swing Club.

King worked at WDIA as a singer and disc jockey, where he was given the nickname “Beale Street Blues Boy”, and finally to “BB”. It was in Memphis that he met T-Bone Walker.

“Once I’d heard him for the first time, I knew I’d have to have an electric guitar myself. ‘Had’ to have one, short of stealing.”

B.B. King

In the late 1940s and early 1950s, BB King was a recognised part of the blues scene on Beale Street.

“Beale Street was where it all started for me.”

B.B. King

He performed with Bobby Bland, Johnny Ace and Earl Forest in a group known as the Beale Streeters. In 1949, Ike Turner introduced King to the Bihari Brothers while he was a talent scout at Modern Records, and King began recording songs under contract with Los Angeles-based RPM Records, a subsidiary of Modern Records. Many of King’s early records were produced by Sam Phillips, who later founded Sun Records. Earlier in 1949 King had issued the single “Miss Martha King” which did not do well – out of a company in Nashville called the Bullet Transcription Company.

“I had horns that very first session. I had Phineas Newborn on piano, his father played drums, and his brother Calvin played guitar with me. I had Tuff Green on bass, Ben Branch on tenor sax, his brother on trumpet, and a lady trombone player. The Newborn family were the house band at the famous Plantation Inn in West Memphis.”

B.B. King

BB King assembled his band, the BB King Review, under the leadership of Millard Lee. Onzie Horne was a trained musician enlisted as an arranger to assist King with his compositions. By his admission, King could not play chords well and always relied on improvisation.

King’s recording contract was followed by tours across the United States, with performances in Washington, DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, Detroit, and St. Louis, as well as gigs in smaller clubs in the southern United States.

His first Billboard Rhythm and Blues “3 O’Clock Blues” charted number one, after which King became one of the most important names in R&B music in the 1950s, amassing hits including: “You Know I Love You”; “Woke Up This Morning”; “Please Love Me”; “When My Heart Beats Like a Hammer”; “Whole Lotta Love”; “You Upset Me Baby”; “Every Day I Have the Blues”; “Sneakin’ Around”; “Ten Long Years”; “Bad Luck”; “Sweet Little Angel”; “On My Word of Honor”; and “Please Accept My Love”.

This increased his weekly earnings from £85 to $2,500, with appearances at major venues like the Howard Theatre in Washington, and the Apollo in New York. Touring the “Chitlin Circuit” in 1956 became a record year with 342 concerts booked and three recording sessions. He founded his own record label “Blues Boys Kingdom” on Beale Street, Memphis. In 1962 King switched to ABCParamount Records – which later absorbed into MCA Records, and then into Geffen Records. In November 1964 King recorded Live at the Regal album in Chicago.

“The Album is considered the best recording I’ve ever had … that particular day in Chicago everything came together.”

B.B. King

From the late 1960s, his new manager Sid Seidenberg pushed King into a different type of music as Eric Clapton and Paul Butterfield were popularising blues music among white audiences. He gained further visibility when he was chosen to be the opening act on the Rolling Stones’ 1965 American Tour. He won a 1970 Grammy Award for “The Thrill is Gone” – a hit on both Pop and R&B charts.

King was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame 1980, the Rock Hall of Fame in 1987, and the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2014.

From the 1980s, to his death in 2015, King maintained a highly visible and active career, performing three hundred nights a year. He gleaned a new generation of fans when he teamed up with the Irish band U2 on their Rattle and Hum album. In December 1997, he performed in the Vatican’s fifth annual Christmas concert. In 1998 he appeared with Eric Clapton in The Blue Brothers 2000, and teamed with Clapton again to record Riding With the King – which won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album.

In 2006, King went on a “farewell” world tour – but didn’t retire. The tour started in the U.K., but continued to the Montreux Jazz Festival, and to Zurich. Later that year he recorded a concert album BB King: Live at his BB King Blues Clubs in Nashville, and Memphis. Released in 2008, they documented his first live performance in over a decade.

“I struggle with words. Never could express myself the way I wanted. My mind fights my mouth, and thoughts get stuck in my throat … If I were wrongfully accused of a crime, I’d have a tough time explaining my innocence … words aren’t my friends. Music is sounding notes, rhythms. I talk through music.”

B.B. King

In 2007, King played at Eric Clapton’s second Crossroads Guitar Festival, and contributed songs

“Goin’ Home”, to “Goin’ Home: A Tribute to Fats Domino. In the summer of 2008, King played at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee. Also in 2008 he was inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame.

King performed at the Mawazine Festival in Rabat, Morocco on May 27, 2010, and then the following June at the Crossroads Guitar Festival with Robert Cray, Jimmie Vaughan and Eric Clapton. He also contributed to Cyndi Lauper’s album Memphis Blues, which was released on June 22, 2010.

In 2011, he played at the Glastonbury Music Festival, and the Royal Albert Hall in London. Rolling Stone ranked King at No.6 on its 2011 list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time.

On February 21, 2012, King was one of the performers of “In Performance at the White House: Red, White and Blues”, during which President Barack Obama sang part of “Sweet Home Chicago”. On July 8, 2012, King performed at the Byblos International Festival in Lebanon.

On May 26, 2013, King appeared at the New Orleans Jazz Festival.

On October 3, 2014, after completing his live performance at the House of Blues in Chicago, a doctor diagnosed King with dehydration and exhaustion, and the eight remaining shows of his ongoing tour had to be cancelled. King did not reschedule the shows, and the House of Blues show would be the last before his death on May 14, 2015.

BB King was married twice, to Martha Lee Denton in November 1946 to 1952. Then to Sue Carol Hall from 1958 to 1966. The failure of both marriages was due to the heavy demands made by King’s 250 performances a year. He fathered 15 children with several women. After his death, three more children claimed King to be their father. Though neither of his marriages produced children, biographer Charles Sawyer claimed that King’s sperm count was too low to conceive children. King never denied paternity of the 15 children who claimed it. In May 2016, the 11 surviving children initiated legal proceedings against King’s appointed trustee over his estimated $30 to $40m estate. Several of them went public, saying that King’s business manager, LaVerne Toney, and his personal assistant, Myron Johnson, had fatally poisoned him. Autopsy results showed no evidence of poisoning. Other children have also filed lawsuits targeting King’s music estate, which remain in dispute.

The last eight performances of King’s 2014 tour were cancelled because of health problems caused by high blood pressure and diabetes. King died in his sleep at the age of 89 on May 14, 2015, from vascular dementia caused by a series of small strokes.

King’s body was flown to Memphis on 27 May 2015. A funeral procession went down Beale Street, and his body was then driven down Route 61 to his hometown of Indianola, Mississippi. He was buried at the BB King Museum.

Sir Christopher Ondaatje is the author of The Last Colonial. The author acknowledges that he has quoted liberally from Wikipedia.

A very nice letter

By Kim Aranha

The Bahamas Humane Society has worn its 100 years of kindness, compassion and empathy with great dignity.

On many occasions, the BHS has been lacking the attention from government, the courts and the general population that it ought to receive. In spite of being overlooked, the society has never faltered and has ploughed forward doing the right thing and selflessly helping those who cannot help themselves.

The millions of volunteer hours that have gone into making us one of the strongest charities in the country, with over 600 animals in sanctuary at any one given time must never forgotten. The dedication and determination of those who work to make their shelter somewhere that animals can lay their weary heads in safety and not in fear is tremendous, where there is water and food and the promise of a home at the end of the tunnel.

Broken animals come in to us and painstakingly we try and heal them and match them with suitable foster homes when they are well enough to move away from daily medical care.

It is a privilege to be part of the revolving door of needy animals, to be in service for them, find generous donors and solutions to move them on to a better and happier life.

The angels are the people who help us, they come to us with time, gift and ideas, they are passionate about what they do and their help assists us to grow and flourish and be who we have become.

We have so many plans to improve, expand, provide more help, train, teach and save. This letter from the RSPCA is a boost to us that we are recognized and remembered. It is a moment of pride to receive such recognition and I enjoy having to opportunity to share it with our supporters and my readers.

Bring on the next 100 years, as we make kindness to God’s creatures a priority in this nation of ours that is rich in wildlife and animals. We are their custodians, and we will not let them down.

ON ANOTHER NOTE:

The Bahamas Humane Society staff and board are deeply saddened and shocked by the brutal murder of former board member and legal advisor Donald Saunders. He was a fine man and donated many hours of legal assistance when on our board. May his family fine comfort from the memories they hold dear. Rest in peace, Don.

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Patron

Patron

3 April 2024

3 April 2024

Kim Aranha President

Kim Aranha

President

Bahamas Humane Society 35 Dunmore Avenue in Chippingham

P O Box N-242, Nassau Bahamas

Bahamas Humane Society 35 Dunmore Avenue in Chippingham P O Box N-242, Nassau Bahamas

Sent by email to: berryislandgirl@gmail com

Sent by email to: berryislandgirl@gmail.com

Dear Kim

Dear Kim

I am writing to congratulate the Bahamas Humane Society on reaching their centenary on June 24th this year The Bahamas Humane Society and the RSPCA have enjoyed a very close relationship over those years, particularly in the four years following 2004 when Kevin Degenhard, our then Head of Inspectorate training, was given a sabbatical from the RSPCA to become your Chief Executive I know Kevin keeps in close contact with you and as one of my trustees he continues to keep me up to date with the good work that your Humane Society undertakes

I am writing to congratulate the Bahamas Humane Society on reaching their centenary on June 24th this year The Bahamas Humane Society and the RSPCA have enjoyed a very close relationship over those years, particularly in the four years following 2004 when Kevin Degenhard, our then Head of Inspectorate training, was given a sabbatical from the RSPCA to become your Chief Executive I know Kevin keeps in close contact with you and as one of my trustees he continues to keep me up to date with the good work that your Humane Society undertakes

The RSPCA is celebrating its 200th year this year so I was particularly pleased to learn that your Society was created exactly one hundred years and eight days following the RSPCA’s founding 2024 will be an exciting year for both our organisations and I hope will be a springboard for many improvements in how we treat animals in both of our countries in the years to come

The RSPCA is celebrating its 200th year this year so I was particularly pleased to learn that your Society was created exactly one hundred years and eight days following the RSPCA’s founding 2024 will be an exciting year for both our organisations and I hope will be a springboard for many improvements in how we treat animals in both of our countries in the years to come

The RSPCA looks forward to continuing our good relations and working with you over the next hundred years

The RSPCA looks forward to continuing our good relations and working with you over the next hundred years

Yours sincerely

Yours sincerely,

Chris Sherwood Chief Executive

Chris Sherwood Chief Executive

E: chris sherwood@rspca org uk

E: chris.sherwood@rspca org uk

PET OF THE WEEK

Claudia

ByTHEBAHAMASHUMANESOCIETY

Claudia is a gentle giant of a dog who loves to go on the Wednesday and Saturday dog walks. She’s not sure why her son was adopted before her, but she’s hoping she’ll find a new home very soon. Claudia is an older lady at eight years, well past those puppy antics, and large and stocky. She’s good with most other dogs, not so great with cats, and she loves adults and children. Do you need a

jolly giant in your life (not a green one!)? Then come to the Bahamas Humane Society to meet Claudia or call 323-5138 for more information. Claudia looks forward to meeting you.

BHS Scavenger Hunt - Save the Date! Sunday, April 28, start time 12:30pm at Trudy’s Bar and Grill, Arawak Cay. Maximum five people per car/team. $15 registration fee. You must preregister your team with Amanda

Meyers 376-0364. This is a fun, adventurous way to support the Bahamas

PHOTO of Claudia by Judy Young.

Are you ready to revel ?

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net

THE BAHAMAS Carnival season is kicking off in a highly energetic way as Hennessy is bringing some of the loudest voices in soca for a collaborative event.

“Revel” as the name implies is for those who can survive hours of non-stop Carnival fun, to be held on Saturday at the Nassau Cruise Port.

This is the first time Hennessy will host a collaborative carnival event; providing a shared space for all carnival bands and revelers to celebrate together.

“Revel” is a two-fold event, a showcase for the carnival bands and a fete all rolled into one. It will feature nine bands: Mas Khaos, Euphoria, Rhythms, Xtreme, Insane Avengers, Big Boys, Junkabrations/Krewe Carnival, Masqueraders and Hypnotic.

Each band will showcase three costumes and echo their themes for the 2024 Bahamas Carnival Season.

During the event, there will be exhibit stations for each band across the venues, allowing patrons to sign up and learn more about what each band has planned, leading up to the highly anticipated Road March scheduled for May 18.

What is significant about this showcase according to Pareece Johnson, Hennessy and Moet brand manager at Commonwealth Brewery, is that the brand has integrated both local and international talent “to curate an unforgettable show”.

The brand also released limited edition bottles featuring colors and patterns indicative of Bahamas Carnival.

The performers for this event include DJs Gorgun, Melody, Kozmo, Spuddy, Fresh and Willy Chin who is will bring the energy and set the stage for performances by Wendi, Benje, Problem Child and Lyrikal.

“Revel” concept is rooted in unity, expression, and celebration. It was important for us to present a line up that showcases local interpretation and soca’s intrinsic sound. We are confident that the dynamic between Wendi, Benje, Problem Child and Lyrikal will present an unforgettable show.”

This event, she said, offers the right kind of build up to what will be an “exciting season”.

“There is a sense of excitement and anticipation when considering the Bahamas Carnival Season. This event serves as a glimpse into what the Bahamas Carnival Association has planned for the season as well as it provides a unique opportunity for patrons to get ready for the road, and then fete.

“We want to encourage revelers to fully embrace this opportunity, as our intention is to curate a show that exudes the spirit of carnival and to showcase the creativity and vibrance that connects all forms of artistry and expression; from the

costume design to the artists that will perform,” she said.

Just as partygoers are anticipating the event, the artists are also excited to hit the stages.

For soca star Lyrikal, this is not his first time performing locally. However every performance he will bring the energy like it is first time.

“It’s always an amazing feeling to see ppl celebrating your music across the Caribbean region. These are the people that take your music further than you can sometimes. By streaming, attending shows, and promoting it on all social media platforms etc. The people can expect a high energetic performance with hits from the past till now. Might even give them a sneak peak of something new I’m gonna release real soon.

This will be artist Benje’s second time performing for Bahamas Carnival.

“It’s an amazing feeling to see how your art makes people smile, move , dance and sing to your creations. Makes you wanna do better and more .

On April 6, they can expect energy, fun entertainment and new music for Bahamas Carnival 2024.

Wendi is without a doubt no newcomer to the Bahamas Carnival having participated in the event since its inception ten years ago. She too is looking forward to hit the stage during the event.

“I have been fortunate to land a few international riddims and featured at international carnivals which had afforded me to now be known by my peers and it feels great. My performance at Hennessy’s Revel is going to be sexy, and energetic with plenty winning and plenty good timing.”

BENJE

WENDI