I S around da
Naature Protecting
Conservation Exploration for Raymia Andrews, 12, on Exuma feld trip. see pages 10 & 11
Welcome…
…to the Around da Islands, our weekly supplement, free with Friday’s Tribune.
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This week’s cover is graced by Raymia Andrews, 12, one of more than 30 young people from Staniel Cay, Black Point and Farmers Cay who took to the water to explore the ecosystems that surround their communities during a conservation eld trip hosted by the Save Exuma Alliance (SEA).
Also in the Exumas, philanthropists Bob and Jeanne Coughlin have extended their support to the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) through a new three-year $600,000 commitment from their family foundation, earmarked for the protection of Moriah Harbour Cay National Park (MHCNP).
We are pleased to report on a slight uptick in Grand Bahama’s tourism sector during the Easter holiday period, with hotel operators, transportation providers, and other tourism stakeholders reporting increased activity, despite the absence of o cial visitor statistics.
And read how the Rand Nature Centre came alive last weekend as families, environmental groups, artisans and volunteers turned out to celebrate ‘National Parks Day,’ which is celebrated throughout the Bahamas in a vibrant showcase of art, nature, conservation, and environmental education.
Every week, Around da Islands, having partnered with Grand Bahama 242, highlights news, features and developments from Grand Bahama and the Family Islands, o!ering a broader national perspective beyond Nassau.
And don’t forget, this is your supplement too! Send us your story ideas, features and tips – we can’t run then them all, but we’re committed to strong, fair representation from across the islands.
So come along for the ride!
From all of us here at The Tribune – The People’s Paper.
COVER Raymia Andrews |
This WEEK in Around da IslandsBahamian News, Features & Culture GRAND BAHAMA NEWS
Pg 4 — Slight uptick for GB over Easter and Spring Break
Pg 5 — ‘Respite Day’ brings relief, joy and community spirit
Pg 6 — Grand Bahama wins 3rd straight Capital Union Bank Cup
Pg 7 — Celebration Key “Co ee Grounds” initiative: turning waste into growth
NEW PROVIDENCE FEATURES
Pgs 8 & 9 —New Welcome Ashore Programme shows visitors what locals call home
EXUMA FEATURES
Pgs 10 & 11 — Sorkelling and exploring seagrass beds for young people on SEA’s conservation eld trip
Pg 11— Coughlin family foundation commits $600,000 support for Bahamas National Trust
Pg 12 — Island Brainwaves
GRAND BAHAMA FEATURES
Pgs 14 & 15 — Grand Bahama's National Parks Day unites community in art, conservation, and ecoawareness
Bahama 242 News: 242newsbahamas@gmail.com Send story and feature suggestions to: Islands@tribunemedia.net
Photo: Elijah Sands
By BARBARA WALKIN
GRAND Bahama’s tourism sector experi-
enced a boost during the 2026 Easter holiday period, with hotel operators, transportation providers, and other tourism stakeholders reporting increased activity, despite the absence of ofcial visitor statistics.
At the front of the positive trend is the all-inclusive resort Viva Wyndham Fortuna, where occupancy levels reached near capacity.
General Manager Gianluca Nurchis described the season as exceptionally strong.
“During this Easter period, and more
Slight uptick for GB over Easter and Spring Break
generally throughout the entire high season, we have had very high occupancy … actually exceptionally high,” Mr Nurchis told Around da Island.
“We are currently at 95% occupancy and expect to remain at that level until the end of May. So, we have truly had an excellent winter and a great spring. Our guests are very happy, and we are all very pleased.”
A spokesperson from a small boutique resort, who requested anonymity, echoed similar sentiments, noting that their property also saw “consistently strong
THE ISLAND’s tourism sector experienced a boost during the 2026 Easter holiday and Spring Break period, with tourism stakeholders reporting increased activities.
Photos courtesy of VIVA
WYNDHAM FORTUNA/ CLUB FORTUNA
defnitely better than usual, and that’s always good for business.”
Airlift from Canada continues to play a critical role in supporting stopover visitor arrivals to Grand Bahama, particularly during the winter and spring high season. Regular direct and connecting fights from major Canadian cities such as Toronto and Montreal typically operate weekly, bringing a steady stream
bookings during the Easter period.”
The spokesperson added that the steady infux of domestic and international guests, provided a much-needed boost following slower periods in previous seasons.
Outside of the hotel sector, local
transportation providers also reported increased business. Taxi driver Alexander Green shared that while the increase was modest, it was still meaningful for small operators.
“I did see a slight increase in guest arrivals over Easter,” Mr Green said. “It wasn’t overwhelming, but it was
of visitors seeking warmweather escapes.
Tourism ofcials say that these routes remain a key driver behind the sustained occupancy levels reported across resorts.
Cruise tourism also contributed to the island’s overall visitor numbers during the Easter period, with multiple ship calls at Freeport Harbour and Celebration Key bringing thousands of passengers to Freeport and surrounding areas.
Eforts to obtain ofcial visitor arrival statistics for the Easter holiday period were unsuccessful. Around Da Island contacted the Ministry of Tourism’s Grand Bahama Ofce; however, representatives indicated that consolidated fgures for cruise and air arrivals were not available at this time.
By BARBARA WALKIN
THERE was laughter in the air, the bounce of children in an infatable castle and, most importantly, a quiet few hours for parents of The Beacon School students to run some errands, meet a friend for cofee or just enjoy some quiet time in the afternoon as members of the Pilot Club of Lucaya hosted their annual “Respite Day” on Friday, April 24.
“Respite Day started more than 10 years ago,” explained Karen Ferguson-Bain, Vice President of Pilot International and Director of Projects for the Pilot Club of Lucaya, “It began when our then president, Kira Cox, who visited Canada and experienced a respite programme there. She thought it was something truly unique, and something we could bring home to Grand Bahama.”
From that seed of inspiration, the programme was born initially ofering parents and guardians three uninterrupted hours to rest, recharge and regroup, while their children were cared for in a safe, engaging environment.
“It started with giving caregivers time of just a relaxation period of three hours,” Mrs Ferguson-Bain said. “At the same time, the children were given treats, games and activities to keep them occupied.”
More than a decade later, the event has evolved into a lively, community-driven experience. This year’s edition featured a Bouncy Castle, expanded games, prizes and the involvement of youth arms of the organisation, including the Anchor Club of Lucaya and the Compass Club of Grand Bahama.
“Our Compass President, Kadesh Wallace, along with our anchors,
helped to play the games, give out prizes and serve treats,” Mrs Ferguson-Bain noted. “It has certainly mushroomed into something truly unique and special for the children.”
The impact of the programme was evident
‘
Respite Day’ brings relief, joy and community spirit
not just in the smiles of participating children, but in its growing reach. This year, siblings of Beacon School students, some not enrolled at the institution, joined in the fun, broadening the sense of inclusion and community.
“It’s an opportunity for parents, guardians and caregivers to have time to themselves so they can replenish, regroup and relax, while we take care of their precious little darlings,” she said.
The success of Respite Day has increasingly relied on partnerships and community support.
Mrs Ferguson-Bain highlighted the involvement of corporate and civic contributors, including Chamber of Commerce representative Janet Albury-Simpson, as
well as several anonymous donors.
“We had donations for the Bouncy Castle, the food - fried chicken, pizzas, soft drinks, treats - and we are so grateful,” she said. “We could not have done this alone.”
“I used some of my connections - friends, non-profts, business owners, doctors, teachers - and once people understood what the programme was about, they wanted to be a part of it,” Mrs Ferguson-Bain said.
At The Beacon School, the partnership is deeply valued. Principal Titi McKenzie-Moss described the initiative as both impactful and essential.
“The Beacon School is thrilled to partner with the Pilot Club of Lucaya to host this event,” she said. “This is where kids
get together after school to enjoy fun and fellowship with their friends and family, while giving their parents time to relax and unwind.”
She emphasised the broader importance of community collaboration in supporting children and families.
“It takes a community to raise a child,” Mrs McKenzie-Moss added. “We welcome any organization or individual
willing to assist. This partnership fosters a strong community spirit and keeps our children in a safe, engaging environment.”
With growing support and an expanding network of partners, the Pilot Club of Lucaya is hopeful that Respite Day will continue to fourish ofering not just relief, but a reminder of what community care can look like at its best.
MEMBERS of the Pilot Club of Lucaya and the Anchor Club hosted the annual 'Respite Day' at The Beacon School on Friday, April 24 giving parents, guardians and caregivers three hours of relaxation.
Photo: BARBARA WALKIN
PRINCIPAL of The Beacon School, Titi McKenzie-Moss.
Photo: BARBARA WALKIN
MEMBERS of the Anchor Club supervised the Hoopla Table games.
Photo: PILOT CLUB OF LUCAYA
Grand Bahama wins 3rd straight Capital Union Bank Cup
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
THERE are wins that come easy, and then there are some that are rumbles. What unfolded on the pitch in the Capital Union Bahamas Cup fnal was frmly the latter, as the Freeport Rugby Football Club stood tall once again, defeating the Cuckoos of Nassau 52–32 to secure their third consecutive title on Saturday.
From the opening whistle, Freeport looked sharp and
purposeful. They surged ahead early, playing with the kind of confdence that comes from belief and a mix of experience and youth. But the Cuckoos, never short on grit, made the game a proper battle.
“It was a hard game,” said Club President Rob Speller. “We went up early, but Nassau came back strong. In the end, we just managed to score more when it counted.”
While the scoreboard told one story, the physical action on the feld told another. Rugby, by nature, demands sacrifce, and this fnal delivered its share of
bruising moments, particularly for the Nassau side.
Midway through the contest, two Cuckoos players collided in a moment that drew gasps from the sidelines. One player sufered a dislocated shoulder, while the other was forced of the feld for stitches. It was a stark reminder of the intensity of the game, and the fne line players walk between courage and pain.
For Freeport, the difference ultimately came down to execution, and a few standout performances that lifted the team when it mattered most.
D’Vaughn Seide delivered a performance to remember, crossing the line three times with precision that kept the Nassau defence under pressure. Alongside him, young Bob Beaumont made an unforgettable debut. In his frst senior appearance, he not only found the try line but shared “Man of the Match” honours with Seide.
Speller said the goal of the club is to give the youngsters in the community who don’t excel in track, basketball or baseball, but who want to play a sport, the opportunity to be a part of a team.
As the celebrations from the victory settle, attention quickly turns to an even bigger milestone, the club’s 60th anniversary this weekend.
Founded in 1965 by John Lively, Christopher Caferata, and Sir Jack Hayward, the Freeport Rugby Football Club has grown into more than just a rugby institution. It has become a cornerstone of community life in Grand Bahama, nurturing generations of athletes across rugby, soccer, and other sports.
Over the decades, the club has hosted youth rugby festivals, international partnerships, and
development programs that have seen local players rise to national representation. For many, it’s more than a club, it’s a second home.
The anniversary celebrations promise to refect that spirit. Festivities begin Friday evening with a cocktail gathering, welcoming visiting
players and supporters from across the region and beyond. On Saturday, the feld will once again come alive with “old boys” rugby, a salute to the generations who built the club, before the day transitions into a full Bahamian celebration.
“We’ve got players coming in from Ottawa, Toronto, North Carolina,
Nassau, Cayman, and Florida,” Speller shared. “It’s going to be a special weekend not just for us, but for the island.”
The evening will close with local food, music, and culture, including a Junkanoo rush bringing together sport and heritage in a way only The Bahamas can.
THE FREEPORT Rugby Football Club (FRFC) team won their 3rd Capital Union Bahamas Cup over the Cuckoo out of Nassau, 52-32.
Photos courtesy of FRFC
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
FOOD sustainability is the focus of Celebration Key’s “Cofee Grounds” initiative, launched on Saturday, April 25, connecting high school students, backyard gardeners and large-scale and commercial farmers through a simple but powerful idea: turning waste into nourishment for the land.
“Every day on our ships, thousands of cups of cofee are prepared for our guests and crew, and what’s left behind, these cofee grounds
Celebration Key
“Co
ee Grounds” initiative:
turning waste into growth
Cofee Grounds are safe and sustainable fertilizers that have no adverse efects on the environment.”
They described the initiative as more than a distribution exercise.
“It’s about taking something simple and rethinking how it can be used in a more meaningful and sustainable way, while also engaging our wider community in the process. And just as importantly, it’s about collaboration.”
That collaborative efort was evident as students and seasoned farmers collected croaker sacks flled with cofee grounds.
Farmers, both backyard growers and commercial operators, also see immediate value.
Luckner Timothy, owner of Grand Bahama Backyard Farmers, said the cofee grounds will play a key role in improving crop health.
“I can apply this around my fruit trees and in my compost,” he explained.
“It’s going to help the plants get nitrogen and keep them green and healthy. For us in backyard farming, compost is food for the plants. Once it breaks down, it feeds the soil naturally.”
He added that the monthly distribution makes the programme even more impactful.
“A lot of farmers across the island will beneft from this. We’re looking forward to it.”
For larger agricultural operations, the initiative also represents a step toward reducing costs and reliance on imported fertilizers.
Jerilee Kelly-Russell, Managing Director of Island Mana Farms, described the programme as a “full circle moment.”
“We’re recycling and putting it back into the earth,” she said. “We’ll use it to fertilize fruit trees and mix it with other organic material from the farm. It helps reduce food waste and supports healthier soil.”
are not simply waste to us. They’re the beginning of a circular story,” said Garelle Hudson, Health, Environment, Safety and Sustainability Manager for Celebration Key, adding that the programme is part of a larger shift toward circular resource use.
According to Ms Hudson, the cofee grounds can be
used as soil enhancers and composted to become a natural, chemical-free fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, key elements for plant growth and improve soil structure, water retention and microbial activity.
“The result is stronger plants, stronger fruit, stronger crops,” she said. “For Grand Bahama, that means
revitalized soils and real contributions to preserving the natural beauty of our island.”
With monthly distributions of between 3,000 and 6,000 pounds planned, the initiative is expected to make a tangible impact on food production across the island.
Liya Forbes and Malea Fernander of the Health, Environment, Safety and Sustainability Department underscored the broader signifcance of the efort.
“We work together to protect public health, support environmental responsibility, and promote safe and sustainable operations across our destinations,” they said.
“From a public health perspective, Cofee Grounds is an efective alternative to toxic chemical fertilizers. From an environmental standpoint,
High school students from Bishop Michael Eldon School (BMES), participated in the launch, gaining hands-on experience in composting and environmental stewardship.
Chang B. Selim de la Pena, physics and chemistry teacher and Eco-School Coordinator at BMES, said the initiative aligns perfectly with the school’s renewed focus on composting.
“This is very exciting and very unique for us,” she said. “We are relaunching our composting initiative, and this is a great addition. The students will see that another person’s waste could be someone else’s treasure.”
She noted that both primary and high school students, along with staf, are being engaged in sustainability eforts, calling the programme a meaningful learning opportunity with real-world application.
She emphasised the broader implications for national food security.
“The healthier our soils are, the healthier the food we produce, and the healthier we become. This is how we move toward sustainability and even reduce food imports over time.”
As the frst bags of cofee grounds were carried away, many in reusable burlap sacks meant to be returned and reused, organisers say the efort will continue to expand in the months ahead. “We will be putting out information monthly as to where we will be distributing, so persons should follow our social platforms for updates.
For the Health, Environment, Safety and Sustainability Department, the message was clear: “Sustainability is not a single act, but a shared responsibility.”
PICTURED from left are Celebration Key's Health, Environment, Safety, and Sustainability Team members: Angelo Dames, Liyah Forbes, Malea Fernander, and Garelle Hudson, Manager.
Photos: BARBARA WALKIN
CELEBRATION Key launched its "Coffee Grounds" initiative on Saturday, April 25, connecting high schools and local commercial farmers through a powerful idea: turning waste into nourishment for the land.
TERRANCE ROBERTS III, Managing Director of Berkshire Bahamas Farms, collects his burlap sacks of coffee grounds.
By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
There’s a certain magic that happens when visitors to a country connect with the residents who live there.
The result is an experience that is more authentic, relaxed and educational - more of a personal invitation to one’s home rather than a neighbourhood drive by.
This is the concept behind the Welcome Ashore Programme designed to
NEW WELCOME ASHORE PROGRAMME
Shows VisItors What Locals CalL Home
give visitors to New Providence a unique perspective from the locals who call the island home.
“We are the front line. We are the ambassadors. Every interaction matters because how we treat people is how The Bahamas is remembered.”
For his latest venture, he partnered with John Watlings co-founder Pepin Argamisilla. Pepin says that magic happens when tourists connect with locals as it allows for a more immersive experience.
“I joined Welcome Ashore because it gives voice to those who make tourism meaningful — residents, artisans, entrepreneurs, and visitors who believe in collaboration over competition. Together, we can show the world that The Bahamas is not just a destination, but a community — one where every experience tells a story, every church bell rings with history, and the blast of the cannon reminds us that our spirit, like our islands, endures.”
He noted how important it is to capture the hearts of cruise passengers enticing them to leave the port and its surrounding areas and venture further into the city.
“Every ship that docks in Nassau brings opportunity that extends far beyond our gates. Cruise passengers and travellers support guides, artisans, musicians, farmers, and small business owners who keep our city’s heart beating. When they visit places like ours, they help preserve what makes The Bahamas authentic — ensuring that its benefts stay with its people.
Tourism in The Bahamas is evolving, and I believe that responsible, locally led experiences are the key to a sustainable future. Visitors who connect with Bahamian stories, products, and people become part of that future — one where culture thrives and prosperity is shared.
A prime example of how tourism can both entice visitors and revitalise the economy, is the neighbourhood where John Watlings is located which has been revitalised as the top of the hill.
Welcome Ashore is the brainchild of tour guide Dave Curry, who had a simple vision - just show visitors his home. The premise is even refected in his company’s name
Simply Dave Tours.
“I was born right here in Nassau
— these islands raised me,” he says.
“My mother is from Cat Island, my father from Exuma, so loving The Bahamas is in my blood. I started out working wherever I could — warehouses, landscaping, the Straw Market with my grandmother — learning early that pride, people, and hard work matter.
“Tourism came naturally. My father started Big Bubba Tours, and before I was even old enough to be insured, I was already welcoming guests and learning how to host.
Simply Dave Tours was born out of the need to stand out — and the belief that being yourself is always enough.”
Dave says that tourism really is everyone business
Our frst bus stop on the tour was started at the historic Queens Staircase or 66 Steps and Ft Fincastle area where Dave introduced us to another Bahamian ambassador, coconut vendor Jamaal Rolle, whose enthusiasm and down to earth personality provides the type of advertising the Ministry of Tourism simply can’t pay for.
As Jamaal handed out fresh coconuts and straws, he talked about how he loves to make the visitor experience special.
“The tourists, we want them to taste the island, not just see it with their eyes, but taste it with their mouths, So its very special to me knowing that I can give them this experience of the island.”
In addition to fresh coconut juice served in the coconut, Jamaal also ofers coconut jelly which can be enhanced with brown sugar, lime and salt and other toppings and other local fruits such as sugar cane tamarind and mangos.
The next step was the historic and quaint Grayclif hotel and restaurant for a tour of its beautiful grounds. Unfortunately, time did permit us to visit the wine cellar which is world-renowned and the wine list has won the prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award since 1988 and the World of Fine Wines 3-stars since 2015. The Wine Cellar has an inventory of over 250,000 bottles from over 5000 vintners in 20 countries.
“When we founded the distillery, our goal went beyond crafting exceptional spirits. We set out to create an experience that celebrates everything Bahamian — our artistry, our architecture, our music, our favours, and our history. Around us, Bahamian culture is thriving. The historic neighbourhood surrounding the estate has become a vibrant hub of local experiences — from Grayclif’s timeless elegance to Tasty Teas’ favourful infusions, from the cultural storytelling of Educulture Bahamas to the inspiring exhibits at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, just steps away. The many historic churches that surround us — with their music, stonework, and spirit — continue to anchor the community, ofering a glimpse into the faith and resilience that defne Bahamian life.”
David and Pepin both stay they want visitors to feel special from the moment they meet Welcome Ashore Ambassadors as if they are spending a few hours with family.
The Tribune recently was invited on a bus tour to see the magic frst hand and what a delightful afternoon it was- flled with inside jokes, island gossip mixed with facts and just maybe one too many cocktails for a work assignment.
We were hosted by Roberta Garzaroli, whose parents Enrico and Anna Maria purchased the historic Grayclif mansion in 1973.
Roberta gave some delightful behind the scenes info about the property’s pool which features the most beautiful hand painted tiles on the bottom a birthday gift from her father to her mother. She explained that the pool was originally salt water and a previous owner would request that it be emptied and reflled every single day.
The Grayclif tour also included a quick visit to the property’s very popular chocolate and cigar factories where guests can make their own chocolate or roll their own cigars.
“On a good day we can see 3000 to 4000 persons a day, Brent Cartwright at Grey Clif explained when asked about cruise passenger trafc.
Then it was of to John Watlings for a mixology class to learn how to make one of the company’s signature coconut rum cocktails.
Our last stop was at Tasty Teas. It was founded in 2013 by the mother-and-son duo Hilda and Jonathan "Jay Jay" Forbes. The business, which specialises in authentic Bahamian bush teas and natural juices made from local herbs, began by selling from a car trunk before growing into a, now well-known, heritage village.
Ms Forbes who is a cancer survivor explained that she was inspired by Revelation 22:1-2: A river of the water of life, clear as crystal, fows from the throne of God, with the tree of life on either side, bearing twelve kinds of fruit and providing leaves for the healing of the nations. She began drinking various bush teas every day and has been cancer free for many years. Tasty Teas also includes an ice cream shop a cocktail bar and restaurants.
PEPIN and Dave at the cruise port
ROBERTA GARZAROLI
Snorkelling and exploringseagrass
beds for young people on SEA’s conservation
eld trip
MORE than 30 young people from Staniel Cay, Black Point and Farmers Cay took to the water to explore the ecosystems that surround their communities during a conservation feld trip hosted by the Save Exuma Alliance (SEA).
Students snorkelled over coral reefs, explored seagrass beds, and spent time inside the Exuma Land and Sea Park, one of the country’s model protected areas. The trip also included time in the North Bay of Sampson Cay, a pristine coastal environment currently under threat from a proposed large-scale dredging project. For some of the children, it was their frst time snorkelling.
The feld trip is part of Save Exuma Alliance’s broader efort to connect young Bahamians with their natural environment while building awareness of the threats those ecosystems face. The North Bay stop was a deliberate choice, giving children a frsthand look at one of the most ecologically signifcant and contested areas in the Exuma Cays.
THE trips were led by naturalist Elijah Sands and marine ecologist Alannah Vellacott.
Save Exuma Alliance plans to continue the feld trips through the summer months.
“These places belong to the people of these islands,” said Mr Sands. “Every child who grows up here is heir to one of the most extraordinary coastal and marine environments on earth. No aquarium on earth compares to what these children have in their backyard. People travel from all over the world to see what they wake up next to every day. We want them to feel the full weight of that. This is theirs to know, to love, to protect.”
Added Ms Vellacott: “Many children who grow up near the
PHILANTROPISTS Bob and Jeanne Coughlin have extended their support to the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) through a new three-year $600,000 commitment from their family foundation, earmarked for the protection of Moriah Harbour Cay National Park (MHCNP) in the Exumas.
This transformative gift follows more than $1 million in support provided by The Bob & Jeanne Foundation over the last fve years, solidifying the Coughlins’ role as a cornerstone "Conservation Champion" for the Exuma community.
Their foundation’s initial 2026 investment of $200,000 will help advance the BNT’s vision for national parks, with a
Coughlin family foundation commits $600,000 support for Bahamas National Trust
we’re
focus on environmental education and youth engagement.
ocean never actually get into it. When you put a young person in the water and let them move through a reef, watch a conch, foat over a seagrass bed, something clicks that no classroom can replicate. These ecosystems become real to them in a way that lasts. When a child puts on goggles for the frst time and sees that world beneath the surface, they are meeting themselves. That connection is something no one can take from them.”
Expanded support will strengthen both existing and new environmental youth programmes in Exuma, creating opportunities for hands-on learning, stewardship, and pathways into conservation careers for the next generation of Bahamians.
“The Bahamas needs a strong BNT to steward and protect its environmental heritage,” said Mr Coughlin.
“Our support is grounded in a belief that conservation and education go hand in hand. By investing in this work,
helping equip the next generation of Bahamians to lead, protect, and sustain these natural resources for years to come.
“We believe in the BNT’s role and are proud to stand behind a team delivering meaningful, long-term impact in Exuma.”
“Through their eforts, Bob and Jeanne [Coughlin] have provided foundational and transformative support for the conservation and programming at Moriah Harbour Cay National Park,” shared MHCNP Manager Catherine Booker.
“Understanding the need to be responsive and timely in giving, as well as appreciating the variety of needs under the umbrella of conservation, makes their contributions uniquely impactful.” The foundation’s support already facilitates several integral roles within the park, including an Exuma Park Manager, two Park Wardens, and an Education and Outreach Ofcer. By covering these essential operating costs, the Foundation helps ensure that the park’s 22,833 acres of pristine beaches, sand dunes, coral reefs, and mangrove creeks remain protected and deepens community engagement through education and outreach.
“The Coughlin family represents the spirit of visionary philanthropy,” said BNT Executive Director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle.
“Their commitment to the people and environment of Great Exuma allows us to invest in our greatest asset—our young people—by connecting them with nature, building environmental awareness, and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders.”
BNT PARK WARDENS, Bradley Charlton and Onelle Pugh, support Education & Outreach Officer Felicia Rolle on an outdoor park experience at Moriah Harbour Cay with young students from George Town.
BNT PARK WARDENS, Bradley Charlton and Onelle Pugh, support Education & Outreach Officer Felicia Rolle on an outdoor park experience at Moriah Harbour Cay with young students from George Town.
12 Friday, May 1, 2026 around da Islands
One letter stands for another. In this example, A is used for the three L’s, X for the 2 O’s, etc. Single letters, apostrophes, the length and formation of words are all hints. Each day the code letters are different.
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
MICRO CROSSWORD
Answers
Grand Bahama's National Parks Day unites community in conservation,art, and eco-awareness
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter Dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
THE Rand Nature Centre came alive as families, environmental groups, artisans and volunteers turned out to celebrate ‘National Parks Day,’ which is celebrated throughout the Bahamas in a vibrant showcase of art, nature, conservation, and environmental education.
The event, which featured guided tours, eco-activities, a farmers market, art displays, music and environmental displays, was open to people of all ages, from small kids to adults.
Elsworth Weir, director of parks for the Bahamas National Trust in Freeport, said National Parks Day which has been held since 2018 is celebrated the Saturday after Earth Day. He said it has become a way to showcase the country’s protected areas and invite the residents
Create,’ which has is in the art gallery full of recycle products that have been created into art.
FROM WASTE, We Create displayed some of the art pieces students created with recycled materials. Fish created of soda can openers; turtle created with cardboard and plastic bottle caps, butterflies made of cardboard, robot made of plastic coffee container and plastic cups.
to reconnect with nature at all the country’s national parks. “Every island is taking part this year, except for Andros. And at every park there are diferent activities being ofered, he said. We see it as an opportunity to open up the park to everybody and have various activities that they can come and enjoy with their families and let them know the national parks are here,” he said.
The Rand Nature Center Farmers’ Market is one of the main featured staples where vendors ofer their authentic-made products to the public. Visitors also enjoyed guided bird tours, the snake exhibit, nature walks, a sip-and-paint experience, a student art competition, speech competition, and displays from environmental groups, including, Coral Vita, Waterkeepers Bahamas, Earthcare, ‘From Waste We
Music from DJ Governor kept the atmosphere lively, while volunteers and civic groups including the Kiwanis Club, Celebration Key, Aliv, and The Craft House helped support the event.
Mr Weir described the celebration as a true community efort. “So it’s a community event and we enlist the support of civic organizations as well as businesses. And we just invite everyone to come out and have a great time.”
Grand Bahama has three national parks — the Rand Nature Centre, Peterson Cay National Park, and Lucayan National Park. Mr Weir said the Lucayan National Park is the busiest. ‘It is the second most visited park in the whole system in the Bahamas,” he said.
Beyond the festivities, Mr Weir said the day is about raising awareness and encouraging residents to make use of the island’s natural spaces.
“We want people to come in and enjoy and experience the parks. A lot of times people might pass and just see a gate (at the Rand Nature Center), but they don’t realize that this is actually a national park,” he said.
“This is a 100-acre property… we try to feature native
MARILYN Ritchie (left) and Brittney Baldwin (right), of Bahamas Environmental Recycling Initiative (BERI), display a beach cleanup station made of wooden pallets. The group has also launched From Waste, We Create, an art competition using recycled materials. The competition is open to school students and ends in June.
Photo:DENISE MAYCOCK
Photo: BARBARA WALKIN
A YOUNG artist is seen painting in the art gallery at the Rand Nature Center on National Parks Day.
Photo:DENISE MAYCOCK
ELLSWORTH
Weir (wearing a light-coloured shirt and khaki pants) at the snake exhibit at the Rand Nature Center.
plants and to some extent animals, and we have an Abaco Boa Constrictor, and we look at it as an educational center and we really want for persons to be able to come in and learn about what’s native… and this is a centrally located place where you can do that.”
Environmental stewardship was also in the spotlight through the work of the Bahamas Environmental Recycling Initiative (BERI), which partnered in the event through its “From Waste
behind that is we plan to keep items out of the landfll, not only out of the landfll, but reuse them as resources and put them back into the island,” Ms Ritchie said.
The initiative is spearheaded by Ms Ritchie and Brittney Baldwin.
Among BERI’s upcoming projects are beach cleanup stations made from reclaimed pallets, encouraging residents and visitors to pick up litter while enjoying Grand Bahama’s shores.
“It’s really an astounding the amount of garbage that washes in, but also gets dumped. I think it’s really important to highlight just the impact that these items have on the environment and not just for a short amount of time, for a
We Create” student ecoart competition.
Marilyn Ritchie of BERI explained the competition encourages students to transform discarded materials into artwork while raising awareness about waste and recycling.
“The idea is that you save items from cleanups, around the home, around the school, on beaches that would otherwise
end up in a landfll, and you create a beautiful art piece with it and you enter the competition for a chance to win $1,000.”
The initiative is tied to a wider efort to reduce landfll waste and promote reuse.
“The larger idea from that is this organization that we’re building called BERI, the Bahamas environmental recycling initiative. And the idea
really long time,” she said.
Students from Lucaya International School also displayed creative science and art projects made from beach cleanup materials, while an Eco Fashion Show added another environmentally themed element to the celebration.
Also participating in National Parks Day was Earthcare, which used the event to promote environmental education and conservation.
Founder Gail Woon said the organisation has long supported National Parks Day as a way to raise awareness about protecting the environment and reaching newcomers to the island.
She highlighted Earthcare’s classroom programme, Conch in the Classroom, at
Freeport Primary and Maurice Moore Primary, where students care for juvenile conch while learning about marine life and conservation. The group also hosted a teachers’ workshop on mangroves earlier this year and is using April to spotlight the seven endemic birds of The Bahamas.
Ms Woon said Earthcare continues to ofer environmental education programmes year-round aimed at inspiring young people to become stewards of the environment.
For many attending, National Parks Day was more than an outing — it was a reminder of the island’s natural treasures and the community role in protecting them.
Photos:DENISE MAYCOCK
