I�LANDS
Welcome…
…to Around da Islands, our weekly supplement, free with Friday’s Tribune.
This week, read how residents across Grand Bahama are reacting following recently released redevelopment plans for the Grand Lucayan Resort and surrounding properties, expected to exceed $700 million in investments. Overall, it seems to be a mixture of excitement and cautious optimism.
There’s also a mixed reaction from GB residents following Tuesday’s landmark announcement that the Progressive Liberal Party administration has acquired the Grand Bahama Power Company from Emera in a move government officials say will lower electricity costs and transform the island’s energy future.
Some responding to the announcement expressed optimism that the move could finally provide relief from years of expensive electricity bills.
Also inside, read the sweet story of how one young baker in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, is proving that passion, patience and a little creativity can go a long way.
At just 11 years old, Isabella Deal, pictured on today’s cover, has turned a love for baking into a growing venture, Bella’s Sweet Delights, capturing the attention of her community with cookies that are as creative as they are carefully made.
Every week, Around da Islands, having partnered with Grand Bahama 242, highlights news, features and developments from Grand Bahama and the Family Islands, offering 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.
This WEEK in Around da Islands - Bahamian News, Features & Culture GRAND BAHAMA NEWS
Pg 4 — GB Chamber 2026 officers take the reigns
Pg 5 — Back-to-back wins for Grand Bahama students in Junior Minister of Tourism competition
Pg 6 — Mixed reaction in Grand Bahama to government’s power move
Pg 7 — Grand Lucayan redevelopment plans spark cautious optimism and excitement
ELEUTHERA FEATURES
Pgs 8 & 9 — A sweet start for young Eleuthera baker
EXUMAM FEATURES
Pgs 10 & 11 — Savour the flavours of the Exumas Pg 12 — Island Brainwaves Pg 14 — Fair winds for a regatta man
FEATURES
15 — From setback to standout!
GB Chamber 2026 officers take the reigns
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
THE Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce officially installed its newly elected officers and directors during a ceremony at the Chamber’s headquarters on Tuesday evening.
Chamber members, business leaders and stakeholders attended the event and expressed optimism about working alongside the new executive team as the organisation prepares
to advance initiatives
focused on business growth and community development across Grand Bahama.
Leading the Chamber for 2026 is president Ralph Hepburn, who outlined an ambitious
tred on connection, support and sustainable growth for the island’s business community.
In his address, Mr Hepburn reflected on the history and importance of chambers of
commerce worldwide, noting that the first documented chamber of commerce was established in Marseille, France, in 1599 to represent the interests of merchants and traders.
He also highlighted the local organisation’s own milestone, explaining that the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce was first established in Freeport in 1966 as the Freeport Chamber of Commerce before being renamed in 1981.
“This year marks 60 years of existence for the Chamber in Grand Bahama,” Mr Hepburn said. “Over those 60 years, we have continued to build on the mission to promote and to serve.”
He announced that the Chamber plans
to commemorate the anniversary throughout Chamber Month in September with a series of celebratory and fundraising events coordinated by its special events committee.
Mr Hepburn emphasised that the organisation’s focus extends beyond traditional business interests and includes support for non-profit organisations, social outreach efforts and wider community development.
“We want to show that the Chamber is more than just a place for business or elite businesses,” Mr Hepburn said. “We are all about commerce on the whole.”
According to Mr Hepburn, the Chamber aims to strengthen collaboration among businesses, community organisations and government stakeholders while encouraging economic sustainability and investment in people.
“We all have to play our part and work together to bring about the change we need in business in Grand Bahama,” he said. “As we develop our people, we will see Grand Bahama grow into the city we need it to be, not going back but moving forward with a new direction and sustainability.”
The Chamber’s 2026 theme, “Connect, Support and Grow Grand Bahama,” will guide its activities throughout the year.
The other officers are Donna Laing-Jones, first vice-president; Carina Ferguson, second vice-president; Atiya McIntosh-Davermand, treasurer; and Janet Albury-Simpson, secretary.
Second-year directors are Davina Rutherford, Jayna Campbell, Nicole Colebrooke, Terrance Roberts III, Lesley Davies-Baptista and Felix Roy Bowe Jr. First-year directors include Kiara Jones, Alexandria Thompson and O’Neil Wildgoose.
vision cen-
STANDING from left are: O'Neil Wildgoose, Davina Rutherford, Rerrance Roberts III, Nicole Colebrooke, Kiara Jones, and Felix Roy Bowe Jr. Seated from left are: Janet Albury-Simpson, Secretary; Ralph Hepburn, President; Carina Ferguson, Second Vice President, and Atiya McIntosh-Davermand, Treasurer.
Photos: BARBARA WALKIN
THE GRAND Bahama Chamber of Commerce's newly installed president, Ralph Hepburn.
Fair winds for a regatta man
Dallas Knowles
reflects on leadership and life on the circuit
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
AS THE SAILS settle on another National Family Island Regatta season, Dallas Knowles is stepping away from his role as chairman and commodore with a perspective shaped not just by leadership, but by lived experience across the islands.
Knowles, who now calls Exuma home, did not grow up immersed in the regatta scene, but his connection to it quickly took hold.
“I am from Nassau, lived there throughout my childhood and teenage years. I moved to Exuma in 2004. I sailed in my first National Family Island Regatta in 2013 and became hooked on the experience. That same year I helped start The Exuma Sailing Club and have been connected to sloop sailing in The Bahamas ever since.”
From that first race, the energy of regatta left a lasting impression. Some moments, he said, remain as vivid today as they were more than a decade ago.
“I still remember coming to the windward mark for the first time in the C class in 2013 and how fast my heart was beating. I also remember winning our first race on Tari Anne in the B class on
the final day of regatta one year. Both of those moments remain very vivid for me.”
For Knowles, regatta is deeply rooted in the Family Islands, where the sport continues to thrive both culturally and economically.
“It certainly feels like the out islands are where sloop sailing lives. The economic boost to out island settlements has helped smaller islands survive and remain active. There is also something special about getting away from the hustle and bustle and enjoying regatta in such a beautiful place.”
His time at the helm of the Regatta Committee was marked by efforts to modernise aspects of the sport while maintaining its authenticity.
“I tried to bring some aspects of international sailing into the sloop sailing world. We introduced the gate for downwind roundings to increase options for racers and implemented a low-scoring points system to simplify large fleet scoring.
The committee also produced a revised rule book to help reduce inconsistencies and improve how penalties are handled.”
Still, the role was not without its challenges, some of which came both on and off the water.
DALLAS Knowles
“There are many challenges in the role, but two stand out the most for me. I often had my integrity questioned while running races because my two boys and sailing club were competing. At the same time, even with strong support from sponsors and the Government, there was never quite enough funding to
fully implement the changes needed to improve the regatta.”
As he steps away from leadership, Knowles is looking ahead with a focus on sustainability, particularly for regattas across the Family Islands.
“Now that I understand the challenges behind the scenes,
I would like to see out island regattas survive. Boat owners need to seek out sponsorship so they can operate more independently instead of relying heavily on committees and government support. With more boats being built and rising costs, we are getting closer to a tipping point than we were just a few years ago.”
Central to that future, he said, is the next generation of sailors.
“Young people staying engaged in sloop sailing is essential for the future of the sport. We will continue to lose legends and those names must be replaced by younger sailors who compete with respect and discipline. Youth sailing programmes that teach respect for the rules and appreciation for the sport are critical to carrying this tradition forward.”
Even as he moves on from the role of commodore, Knowles remains closely tied to the culture and energy that define regatta in The Bahamas.
“The answer to what regatta means to me has changed over time as I moved from competitor to coach to organiser and now back to competitor. What has remained constant is the passion and love people have for sloop sailing, which often feels even stronger than international sailing. The energy from the fans, the shouting and the pride all reflect something deeply Bahamian that continues to stand out to me.”
For Knowles, stepping away from leadership does not mark an ending, but a shift. The sails may look different now, but the connection to the sea, the sport and the islands remains firmly in place.
By ALESHA CADET
Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
THERE are moments in a career that could easily define a person in the wrong way.
For Richenda L A King, those moments became the foundation for something far greater: a story of resilience, purpose and perseverance now captured in her new book, Fired to Finish: The Art of Exceeding Expectations.
With more than two decades of experience in senior human resources leadership across The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean, Richenda said her journey has not been without challenges. In fact, some of her most defining moments came during periods of professional disappointment.
“I have been a C-suite human resources professional for over 25 years working in private and public entities,” said Mrs King. “Over the last two decades, I have been fired three times. Each time I was fired, I refocused on my purpose and passion and was able to finish developing and building a legacy.”
That ability to regroup and rebuild became the driving force behind her decision to write the book, which aims to speak directly to people navigating setbacks of their own.
From setback to standout!
the book. Richenda said she was especially proud to be introduced by her daughter, RiKendra Rolle, a moment that underscored the generational impact she hopes her work will have.
“I was inspired to write this book because there are so many people who may not want to get up after they have been knocked down. I want to say to everyone who has had a disappointment in their work life and who has felt that they are never going to be enough, that you are enough and you can recover from every challenge that you face once you believe you can,” said Richenda.
The message resonated strongly at the official launch, which recently brought together colleagues, friends and family in what the author described as a deeply meaningful evening. The turnout reflected not only her professional reach, but also the relationships she has built throughout her career.
“The book launch was surreal. We had an overflow of guests with family members and friends and attendees from some of the companies that I would have worked with over the years,” said Richenda.
The programme blended reflection with celebration, highlighting the influences and milestones that shaped her journey. Familiar faces took the stage, including long-time collaborators and mentors who played a role in her professional development.
“There were so many standout moments,” said Mrs King, recalling the evening’s programme. She pointed to the role
of Keith Major, chairman of the Insurance Commission, who moderated the event and shared memories from their time working together. “That brought back a lot of memories,” she said.
Performances by students of CI Gibson added a cultural and emotional layer to the evening, while musical contributions and readings from contributors helped bring the themes of the book to life. The presence of those involved in the publication, including Patrick G Ward, who wrote the foreword, made the occasion even more impactful.
“When Mr Ward referred to me as a ‘life force’ I was awestruck,” she said. “I will wear that term as a badge of honour, bringing intense energy and passion to everything I do.”
Additional tributes echoed that sentiment, reinforcing the image of a woman driven by determination and purpose.
“He called me a ‘force of nature’,” Mrs King said of author Chris Fuller. “To me, a force of nature is unstoppable, and that is how I want my readers to feel when they read the book – unstoppable.”
“RiKendra is an attorney who is just beginning her career. I wrote this book for her and other young women and aspiring professionals so that they will be inspired to dream big and accomplish their goals step by step. They should never let anyone tell them that they are not ready to live their dream, they should live it anyway,” said Richenda.
Going forward, she is already focused on extending the conversation beyond the pages of the book. Her next steps centre on mentorship and leadership development, areas she sees as critical to building future generations of professionals.
“In the book, I offer a free mentorship session for anyone who is interested in moving to the next level in their career or to become a servant leader,” she said. “If you continue to grow, you will continue to excel.”
While the evening celebrated her achievements, it also reflected a more personal motivation behind
For Mrs King, the launch marked a beginning that opens the door for others to see possibility where there was once doubt and to move forward with renewed confidence.
Photos: Ashley Roberts
Back-to-back wins for Grand Bahama students in Junior Minister of Tourism competition
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
SIXTEEN-YEAROLD Raia
Cargill of Sunland Baptist Academy has made history by winning the Junior Minister of Tourism title at the national championships held in New Providence.
Competing against 13 finalists from across The Bahamas, Ms Cargill represented Grand Bahama and follows in the footsteps of Xaria Ingraham, the 2025 Junior Minister.
Her journey to success was motivated by the memory of Grace Cooper, a former Sunland student who tragically died on February 9, 2026, at the age of 16.
“For me, this not only means carrying out a legacy but also a lifelong
journey for Grace Cooper,” Ms Cargill said. “Our last conversation was about how she wanted to be a junior director.”
Initially hesitant about public speaking, Ms Cargill stepped away after her first competition did not go as planned.
But when she realised victory was hers, the moment became overwhelming.
Embracing her new role, Ms Cargill expressed excitement about taking on the responsibilities of Junior Minister of Tourism.
“I’m up for the challenge. I love talking about anything. I love innovation, and I’m passionate about
MINISTRY of Tourism's 2026 Junior Minister of Tourism, Raia Cargill.
“I tried, I didn’t conquer, and I left it alone,” she explained. However, the loss of Grace reignited her passion.
“After her passing, there was like a ringing in my spirit; I had to do this. I tried many times to turn it away, but I knew that was impossible for me. I decided to do it.”
After committing to the competition, she steadily advanced through the rounds, never expecting
Photos: BARBARA WALKIN
to take
home the title.
“When they said I won the interview [locally], I went on to the next stage. When I won again, I got emotional. In that moment, I thought, what did I just get myself into?”
On finals day, she said she was mentally prepared for defeat.
“I had my bag packed. I thought it was a nice competition,” she recalled.
it,” she said. “I hope to bring a touch of innovation and my personality to the tourism sector.”
Ms Cargill also highlighted the experience of competing alongside young people from various islands.
“It was a joyful experience… truly an eye-opener. It was motivational to see other young people put themselves on a national stage and do so well. It enlightened me.”
Her coach, Ashleigh Peterson of Sunland Baptist Academy, described the win as a deeply meaningful achievement.
“This is my first year actually being involved with coaching the whole process… so this win for her is just as much a win for me. It’s exciting and rewarding to see her push herself and believe in herself.”
Gina Turner, manager of training and education in Grand Bahama, praised the victory as a reflection of the Ministry of Tourism’s dedication to nurturing young talent.
“We are so proud… Grand Bahama has been doing its thing with this junior minister programme,” she said. “We take our time with our students. We pour into them; they’re family.”
As Ms Cargill prepares for her upcoming participation in the Caribbean Tourism Organization conference, she said she is still processing the win.
Her message to others is simple and heartfelt: “I want to tell anyone… never give up on themselves. Because if I continued to give up, I wouldn’t be in the position that I am today.”
JUNIOR Minister of Tourism, 16-year-old Raia Cargill of Sunland Baptist Academy, is pictured with Principal Sheryl Wood (third left), school staff, and her family.
JUNIOR Minister of Tourism, 16-year-old Raia Cargill of Sunland Baptist Academy, is pictured with Principal Sheryl Wood (third left), school staff, and her
THE PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party administration has acquired the Grand Bahama Power Company from Emera in a move government officials say will lower electricity costs and transform the island’s energy future. From left: Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey; Minister of Energy and Transport JoBeth Coleby-Davis; Prime Minister Philip Davis; Emera Executive VP Corporate Development Karen Hutt, and GBPC Chief Operating Officer Nikita Mullings.
Photo: BIS
Mixed reaction in Grand Bahama to government’s power move
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
RESIDENTS
across Grand Bahama are expressing mixed reactions following Tuesday’s landmark announcement that the Progressive Liberal Party administration has acquired the Grand Bahama Power Company from Emera in a move government officials say
will lower electricity costs and transform the island’s energy future.
Some residents responding to the announcement shared optimism that the move could finally provide relief from years of expensive electricity bills.
Angela Pinder described the government’s decision as “great news” for the island.
“The government, I think, is doing the right thing for Grand Bahama,” she said. “We’ve been paying high bills so long, especially after Hurricane Dorian and at a time when people were trying to get back on their feet. I applaud Prime Minister Philip Davis for this move.”
Wellington Robinson of Eight Mile Rock also welcomed the announcement.
“This is great news,” he said. “Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis and the government are to be commended.”
However, not all residents are fully convinced the transition will automatically improve service and affordability.
One small business owner, who declined to be identified, expressed concern about whether the government can maintain GBPC’s current level of reliability.
“I hope they know what they are doing,” the business owner said. “While I think the government should be in charge of certain infrastructure, the track record is not very good when it comes to power reliability across New Providence and the Family Islands.
“I know it is the people and equipment that makes the company work, so I hope they keep the team we have at Grand Bahama Power, because it doesn’t appear that the BPL team or the equipment is up to par to handle the electricity supply.”
Others, meanwhile, are taking a wait-and-see approach.
Richard Flowers told Around da Islands that he plans to reserve judgment until the first year of government ownership has passed.
“I will wait until the 12 months probationary period is up before I comment on the government’s move to control Grand Bahama Power Company,” he said.
Former Member of Parliament and Independent general election candidate Frederick McAlpine also weighed in on the government’s acquisition of the Grand Bahama Power Company, expressing cautious concern over whether the state can maintain the level of service residents have become accustomed to.
“We are yet to observe how the government will navigate this new State-owned Enterprise,” Mr McAlpine said. “Grand Bahamians are accustomed to quality service when it comes to electricity.”
Mr McAlpine’s comments echoed concerns raised by some residents and business owners who questioned whether government ownership could maintain the reliability standards
currently associated with GBPC, particularly when compared to ongoing challenges faced by Bahamas Power and Light in other parts of the country.
The announcement, made during a press conference attended by Prime Minister Philip Davis, Energy Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis, Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey, Emera executive vice-president Karen Hutt, and other senior government and utility officials, has sparked island-wide discussion about the future of electricity rates, reliability and economic development.
Under the agreement, the Government of The Bahamas, through a special purpose vehicle known as the Grand Bahama Electricity Company, will acquire all outstanding shares of GBPC. The transaction is being financed through a loan from Standard Chartered and Scotiabank, backed by a government guarantee.
Prime Minister Davis described the acquisition as a major step toward reducing the burden of high electricity costs on residents and businesses.
He announced that GBPC customers will now transition to the Bahamas Power and Light tariff structure, which government officials say will result in lower electricity bills for households, churches, schools and businesses.
“Families will pay less for electricity. Small businesses will pay less. Large businesses will pay less,” the prime minister stated.
RESIDENTS across Grand Bahama are reacting with excitement and cautious optimism following recently released ‘grand’ redevelopment plans for the Grand Lucayan Resort and surrounding properties expected to exceed $700 million in investments.
The long-anticipated plans were confirmed by Counsel and Attorney-at-Law Terence Gape, Senior Partner at Dupuch & Turnquest, who revealed that the firm represents purchaser and resort developer Concord Wilshire Capital Group, headquartered in Miami, Florida, in the transaction involving the sale and redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan properties.
News of the project’s plans were discussed across the island, particularly among residents whose livelihoods are closely tied to tourism.
Taxi driver Alexander Brown said many drivers have struggled for years since the closure and decline of major hotels on the island.
“Grand Bahama has been needing something like this for a long time,” Mr Rolle told Around da Islands. “Taxi drivers have it hard, but if they really build all of this and tourists start coming back in big numbers, it could change plenty lives.”
Another taxi operator, Craig Smith, said residents are hopeful but cautious after hearing redevelopment promises over the years.
“People want to actually see construction start,” he said. “We’ve heard announcements before, but this sounds much bigger than anything we’ve heard in years. If it happens, it could wake this island back up.”
Straw vendors at Port Lucaya Marketplace also welcomed the announcement, saying increased visitor traffic could provide badly needed relief for small businesses.
Vendor Daina Darville said the prospect of one million cruise passengers annually could significantly boost sales.
Grand Lucayan redevelopment plans spark cautious optimism and excitement
"... Bahamians should get opportunities too. We need local people working, selling products, and benefiting from the tourists.”
“Right now, we have slow days and no days,” she said. “If the cruise visitors come over here and the marketplace gets revived, that would help all the vendors, hair braiders, jewellery sellers … everybody.”
Another vendor, Angela Mack, said she hopes local
entrepreneurs will be included in the redevelopment plans.
“We don’t want all foreign stores and foreign businesses,” she said. “Grand Bahamians should get opportunities too. We need local people working, selling products, and benefiting from the tourists.”
Hospitality workers and former resort employees also expressed optimism that the project could bring longawaited job opportunities back to the island.
Former hotel worker Erica Black said many hospitality professionals have either migrated or changed careers since the Grand Lucayan downsized operations and eventually closed.
involving MSC Cruises, which plans to acquire approximately 20 beachfront acres to create a large-scale beach destination capable of welcoming up to one million cruise visitors annually.
Several aging hotel buildings are slated for demolition, although the historic Manor House and Breakers Cay buildings are expected to be preserved and integrated into the new vision for the property.
Developers also confirmed plans to redevelop the Reef Golf Course into a cham-
Ms Black said: “A project this size could bring hundreds, maybe thousands, of jobs during construction and after opening.”
Restaurant worker Virginia Knowles said renewed activity in the tourism sector could create ripple effects throughout the economy.
“When tourism is good, everybody feels it … taxi drivers, restaurants, shops, boat tours, everybody,” she said. “Grand Bahama needs energy again. People need confidence again.”
According to details released by developers, the project will dramatically transform the resort corridor, featuring a new 550-room Hilton-branded hotel and casino complex, expanded family accommodations, a second casino linked to a cruise resort development, a mega yacht marina, international shopping, and more than 20 restaurants.
The redevelopment also includes a major partnership
pionship-level course and revitalize nearby tourism assets including Port Lucaya Marketplace, the Port Lucaya Marina, and the Grand Lucayan Yacht Club.
In a related deal, the Xanadu tract and surrounding beachfront acreage totalling approximately 28 acres is reportedly being sold to an affiliated cruise line group for $40 million.
Developers say one of the major distinctions of the MSC beach development is that it will remain accessible not only to cruise passengers but also to overnight visitors and the wider public, creating a more integrated tourism product for Grand Bahama.
The project further includes plans for international shopping, at least 20 new restaurants, and renewed investment interest in Port Lucaya Marketplace, the Port Lucaya Marina, and the Grand Lucayan Yacht Club.
GRAND LUCYAN HOTEL
A sweet start for youngEleuthera baker
By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
In the quiet charm of Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, one young baker is proving that passion, patience and a little creativity can go a long way.
At just 11 years old, Isabella Deal has turned a love for baking into a growing venture, Bella’s Sweet Delights, capturing the attention of her community with cookies that are as creative as they are carefully made. Balancing school with her budding business, Isabella is already showing discipline and drive well beyond her years. Her journey began in a familiar place: the kitchen. Encouraged by family and guided
by curiosity, Isabella said her interest developed naturally over time.
“I first started baking in kitchen with my aunt. She would often let me try out different desserts, and that’s when I really fell in love with baking,” said Isabella. “What made me want to take it further was how much my family enjoyed my treats – my mom, dad, sisters, uncles. They always told me how good everything tasted, and that encouraged me to share my baking with other people. And that’s how I started my business.”
As her confidence grew, so did her menu, with each creation reflecting her willingness to experiment. Among her stand out treats is a cookie that has quickly become a favourite.
“One of my favourite cookies
to make is a cookie I call
making my s’mores cookie because it brings all the flavours together in one treat, and it always
What started as a home-based effort has since reached a wider audience across the island, with her cookies now available in local spots including Boogie Bubbles, Buccaneer Club and Awesome Kitchen Supplies. For Isabella, seeing her products on display has been both exciting and en-
“It feels really exciting to see my cookies being sold in different places on the island. I’m still new to this, so I was especially happy knowing that people enjoyed them and believed in my product. When my sister first asked me what I thought about offering my products at Boogie Bubbles, which was the first place I sold to, I was so
excited. The very first set that was delivered there sold out quickly, to the point where the owner ordered more for the store. That experience made me even more excited to see how my other cookies will do in the future,” said Isabella. While baking involves several steps, Isabella has already found her favourite part of the process.
“My favourite part of baking is definitely decorating. I love being creative and trying different designs. No matter what I do, it always comes out nice, and I enjoy adding little details, like placing mini cookies on top to make them look extra pretty,” she said.
Despite her early success, Isabella has her sights set on a different long-term goal.
“In the future, I don’t necessarily see myself becoming a baker or chef full-time because I want to become a doctor,” she said.
“However, baking will always be something I love, and I might continue doing it on the side or even grow it into something bigger one day. With the help of God and my very supportive family, I know I can do anything I put my mind to.”
For now, Bella’s Sweet Delights continues to grow, one carefully crafted cookie at a time — a journey rooted in passion, supported by family, and filled with promise.
ISABELLA Deal at Boogie Bubbles
By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer
WHAT happens when you combine the beauty of the Exumas with food from some of the world’s top chefs - a four-day event designed to give participants a true taste of the islands.
The Inaugural Taste of Exuma event begins on May 14 and is designed to be the perfect pairing of fine cuisine, with the right partner at the right place and the right moment.
It will feature three top chefs performing live cooking demonstrations during the day, and sumptuous dining delights during the night, all with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients that showcase the natural bounty of Exuma.
Get ready for a hot date next to the cool mile-long stretch of ivory beach at Grand Isle Resort and Residences, with the stars twinkling above and the clear waters of Emerald Bay sparkling below – as the chefs bring together island spirit and global taste.
“Imagine a beautiful Exuma sunset as you dine on exquisite offerings that come from the sea and shores of the island chain’s sparkling blue waters, and you get a sense of the magic of the Taste of Exuma festival. What could be more romantic?”
asked Shona Perry, Grand Isle general manager.
Executive Chef Antonio Williams is the executive sous chef at the British Colonial Hotel, with more than 24 years of experience in the industry. He says he enjoys telling stories through food, highlighting fresh local ingredients and Bahamian culture.
From farther afield, Chef Alyn Williams is coming from London, England, where he ran the Michelin-starred Westbury restaurant from 2011 to 2019.
Savour the flavours
of
In 2012, he was named the National Chef of the Year. He is currently leading the Magistracy Dining Room in Hong Kong and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the culinary world, including Gordon Ramsay, Angela Hartnett and Marcus Wareing.
He describes Exuma as “a special place for my whole family and me, adding: “There is already so much talent on the island, and I think combining all The Bahamas has to offer, we can really build something special for the future that will be a staple on the tourism calendar for years to come.”
Bringing it back home is Grand Isle’s own head chef, a proud native
the Exumas
“As the national flag carrier, we remain committed to strengthening connectivity across our islands and supporting initiatives that celebrate the culture, cuisine, and character that define Exuma.”
Exumian, Chef Nigelle Thompson, who blends tradition and innovation to deliver an elevated dining experience that celebrates the vibrant flavours of the islands.
The event offers much more than just food, featuring a full daily schedule. Highlights include a junior chef cook-off, a marketplace showcasing Exuma’s specialities, pop-ups with local vendors, a live painting auction, Junkanoo, and more.
John Watling’s Distillery’s co-founder and managing partner, Pepin Argamasilla, will be bringing the taste of the Buena Vista estate in Nassau to the family islands with
a curated John Watling’s Mixology Experience during the festival, as well as rum tastings.
There will be daily cocktail demonstrations – and a unique signature drink each night.
“We are honoured to be the official spirits partner of Taste of Exuma. The event promises to be one of the finest and most fun experiences of the culinary calendar,” he said.
A variety of ticket options is available for the festival, ranging from single-day passes to full festival packages. Packages can include a premier villa and all-access passes. Tickets without an accompanying villa are also available.
In addition, Bahamasair is proud to support the Taste of Exuma experience by providing seamless access to one of The Bahamas’ most captivating destinations. Travellers can take advantage of special fares from Nassau and Fort Lauderdale to George Town, Exuma, using promo code TASTYGGT for a limited-time discount. The offer is available for booking through May 15, for travel between May 13 and May 20.“As the national flag carrier, we remain committed to strengthening connectivity across our islands and supporting initiatives that celebrate
the culture, cuisine, and character that define Exuma,” said a Bahamasair spokesperson.
To learn more about the festival or to book, visit www.TasteofExuma. com or call +1 (242) 358-5000.
What happens when you combine the beauty of the Exumas with food from some of the world’s top chefs - a four-day event designed to give participants a true taste of the islands.
The Inaugural Taste of Exuma event begins on May 14 and is designed to be the perfect pairing of fine cuisine, with the right partner at the right place and the right moment.
It will feature three top chefs performing live cooking demonstrations during the day, and sumptuous dining delights during the night, all with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, showing off the natural bounty of Exuma.
Get ready for a hot date next to the cool mile-long stretch of ivory beach
at Grand Isle Resort and Residences, with the stars twinkling above and the clear waters of Emerald Bay sparkling below – as the chefs bring together island spirit and global taste.
“Imagine a beautiful Exuma sunset as you dine on exquisite offerings that come from the sea and shores of the island chain’s sparkling blue waters, and you get a sense of the magic of the Taste of Exuma festival. What could be more romantic?” asked Shona Perry, Grand Isle general manager.
Executive Chef Antonio Williams is the executive sous chef at the British Colonial Hotel, with more than 24 years of experience in the industry. He says he enjoys telling stories through food, highlighting fresh local ingredients and Bahamian culture.
From farther afield, Chef Alyn Williams is coming from London, England, where he ran the
Michelin-starred Westbury restaurant from 2011 to 2019.
In 2012, he was named National Chef of the Year. He is now at the helm of the Magistracy Dining Room in Hong Kong and has worked with some of the biggest names in cuisine, including Gordon Ramsay, Angela Hartnett and Marcus Wareing.
He describes Exuma as “a special place for my whole family and me, adding: “There is already so much talent on the island, and I think combining all The Bahamas has to offer, we can really build something special for the future that will be a staple on the tourism calendar for years to come.”
Bringing it back home is Grand Isle’s own head chef, a proud native Exumian, Chef Nigelle Thompson, who blends tradition and innovation to deliver an elevated dining experience that celebrates the vibrant flavours of the islands.
The event goes beyond the plate with a full schedule each day. That includes a junior chef cook-off, a marketplace exploring Exuma’s speciality fire and pop-ups with local vendors, a live painting auction, Junkanoo and more.
John Watling’s Distillery’s co-founder and managing partner, Pepin Argamasilla, will be bringing the taste of the Buena Vista estate in Nassau to the family islands with a curated John Watling’s Mixology Experience during the festival, as well as rum tastings.
There will be daily cocktail demonstrations – and a unique signature drink each night.
“We are honoured to be the official spirits partner of Taste of Exuma. The event promises to be one of the finest and most fun experiences of the culinary calendar,” he said.
ARANGE of packages is available to attend the festival, from one-day tickets to packages for the whole festival. Packages can include a premier villa and all-access passes. Tickets without an accompanying villa are also available.
In addition, Bahamasair is proud to support the Taste of Exuma experience by providing seamless access to one of The Bahamas’ most captivating destinations. Travellers can take advantage of special fares from Nassau and Fort Lauderdale to George Town, Exuma, using promo code TASTYGGT for a limited-time discount. The offer is available for booking through May 15, for travel between May 13 and May 20.
“As the national flag carrier, we remain committed to strengthening connectivity across our islands and supporting initiatives that celebrate the culture, cuisine, and character that define Exuma,” said a Bahamasair spokesperson.
To learn more about the festival or to book, visit www.TasteofExuma.com or call +1 (242) 358-5000.
Friday, May 8, 2026
a X Y d l B a a X r is l o n g F e l l o w
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
challenger
Yesterday’s Answers