Belly laughs and Bahamian women
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
AN all-Bahamianfemale comedy showcase presented by Dynamite Productions, is positioning itself as not just anotherMother’s Day event but a historic moment in Bahamian entertainment and a milestone 25th anniversary celebration for the production company.
“MamaYou KnowI LoveYou” is a groundbreakingcelebration of laughter,andlady poweristaking centrestagewhen thecurtainsare rolled backon theevent tohonour mothers and give them belly busting laughter. Itall takes place at Golden Gates Assembly on May 11 at 6pm.
Atthehelmofitallistheveteran playwright LynnTerez Davis,
knownforher audaciousandbeloved characterDynamite Daisy. The event willfeature entertainmentbyDynamite Daisywhowill be joinedon stageby othercomic acts includingLatoya Laughsand Myz Giggles.
For theplaywright andactress this productionis more thana performance it’s a statement.
“Honestly, Iwas inspiredto put togethera Bahamianall-female comedianlineup afterattending Das Quay’s WorkWith Me standupshow inOctober2024. Itfeaturedanall-male cast,andI thought, ‘Mmm I candothis withwomen too.Thetalent isdefinitely here’ ”
The show, setfor Sunday night, promisesararetreat: notonlyisit thefirst timeBahamianswill seea full female comediccast, but the experience is also up close and personal.MissDaisy herselfwillbe
weaving throughthe crowd, speaking directly to audience members with her signature sass and soul.
For TerezDavis, thisMother’s Day event holds special meaning.
“Motherhoodisnot forthefaint of heart or weak,” she said. “To conceive,carry, birth,and raisea childwhile jugglinglife’s many role, wife, employee, caretaker, is a full-time, lifelongcommitment. This show is just another way to say thank you. To laugh with her is to love her.Laughter is medicine for the soul.”
While the show is a tribute to mothers, it’salso a nodto women in comedy who have paved the way.
“I wantto honourgreats like MissJess Pearl,Cookie,and Vivica Watkins. They’vebeen in this game foryears,” she told Tribune Woman.
“Now we see women like LaToya Laughs,Cindy TheCreative, Ms. Giggles, and Vividly Val rising and Bahamians are showing up for them.”
Amongthose risingstarsis Cindy TheCreative, aperformer makingher officialstand-updebut onastageof thissize. “This is my firsttime doingcomedy atthis level. I have been performing since 2017, but never likethis never as the opener for a Bahamian comedy legend like DynamiteDaisy. I am honored. I am ready.But of course I keepthinking, ‘Ihope theylaugh at my jokes.”
A mother herself,Cindy will be spending her Mother’s Day on stage something shecalls “a great opportunityto beseen ina new light.”
Asthe nightpromisespunchlinesand powerfulmoments,Dy-
namite Productionsis already looking toward thefuture. Up next? Atalent searchto discover the next wave of comedic voices. Aspiring comedians both male and female are invitedtosubmit a7-minuteself-tape byJuly31, 2025. The winners will compete in a showcase this September to close out Dynamite Productions’ 25th anniversary year
Reflecting on her journey, Terez said: “After 25years, I’ve learned thatnobodystays centerstagefor life.Youcompleteyourassignment and pass the baton. I’ve stopped focusing on thosewho don’t support and instead feel deep gratitude for those who do.”
Her goal for the future is to leave a legacy of “Christ-honouring comedy” oneshe saidthatproves you do not needprofanity or putdowns to be powerfully funny.
Leading the way
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter
dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
In arehearsal studiofar fromhome, a group of young Bahamian performers trainsunderthe watchfuleyesoftwo seasonedtheatre veterans David BlakeandKarlene Wray both of whom havemade significantmarks onthe global stage of musical theatre.
David,a nativeofJamaica, andKarlene, originallyfrom Leedswith Caribbeanroots, are acclaimedperformers whohave held leadingroles inDisney’s TheLion Kingin London,among otherhigh-profiletheatre productions.
Long-timefriends andcollaborators,they sharea deeppassionforgiving back,dedicatingtheirtimeand talenttonurturingthe next generation of Caribbean performers. Last month, they provided for members of the Performing Arts AliveTheatre group - a groupoftheatre studentsvisitingLondon from Grand Bahama to showcase their talent and engagein culturalexchange inLondon,
April 12 through 25.
The training took placeat the Stoke Newington Youth Hub in Hackney on April 17.
During a three-hour musical theatre dance master class, as he calls it, David held warmup sessions anddemonstrated basic dance techniques andpositions. Healso usedthe Lion Kingstory todevelop thethemes and ideas around teamwork, choreography, timing,rhythm, coordination,confidence, and improvisation, and helped the youngsterstocomeup withmovementsforthemselves.
“We asteachers have to givestudents an opportunity tobe creative in thisspace. And Iwas reallyimpressed bytheeffort theyput into creatingthe work, andthe youngest personwas6 yearsold,andjust toseeher engaged with the kids wasgood, and to see older kidssupportive ofeach other,was wonderful to see,” he said.
Blake believes thatthe London trip provides not only a great opportunity for Bahamian kids to showcase their talents in performingarts butalsoa wonderfulopportunity for cultural exchange and to learn new
skill sets.
He remindedthe youngmentees thatthe performingarts canopen countlessdoors and thatwith commitment andfocus, they can achieve greatness.
He also acknowledged “Ike” Williams, artistic director of PAAT, who contacted him and made this opportunity possible.
“The Bahamiankids comingto theUK is good because every other person you meet is from adifferent country,so younever feel like a foreigner here which is wonderful,” he said.
Heemphasised thatperformingarts offered awealth of learningexperiences and open doors to numerous opportunities for himandothersin theCaribbean.Blakehas been able to maximisehis success through his journey in theperforming arts more than anything else.
Davidencouraged theBahamianyoungsterstopursuetheirpassionfortheartswhile also prioritising their education.
Unlike in the UKwhere resources allow young people to focus solely on one path, he saidCaribbeanperformersoftenmustmaster both academics and the arts to succeed.
“That’s the unique thingabout us we do both,” he said, highlighting the discipline and determination Caribbeanartists bring to
the stage.
He shared stories of fellow Caribbean colleagues,suchas JamaicanSadieWilliams,a medical doctor who chose to follow her passionfor danceinNewYork; lawyerReneeI McDonald,who becamethe firstCaribbean choreographer for the Alvin Ailey American DanceTheater;and JamaicanGarthFagan, the choreographerof TheLion King,who is based in New York.
Having developed astrong foundation in performing arts at a young age in Jamaica and encouragedby hisartistic director, David moved to Los Angeles, where he went to university. He workedon the Dreamgirls film, taughtand performedbefore returning home to audition for The Lion King.
Afterbeingcast, DavidmovedtoLondon and fell in love with the city. He transitioned from an ensemble dancerto a principal role in the showas Banzai, the leadhyena, and also played understudy for Mufasa.
In2009, hestartedBlakeArts dancecompany because thecommercial studios were not providing the dance techniques that were needed tosupport and preparemany British dancers for The Lion King auditions.
“I started with one student, and over time I was ableto buildup thatclass, anda lotof them got into the UK tour in the London and
DAVID Blake with performers
art health theatre culture
pageants
Germany casts,” he recalls.
Whenthe pandemichappened in2020, David created the Melanin Migration Brothers inArms, receivingfunding from arts councils to createprograms around financialliteracy, careercitizenmanagement, mental health, and wellbeing for many artists when the theatres closed down.
In 2023,he leftThe LionKing andaccepted an appointment as a director of Urdang,City,University ofLondon,a renowned performingarts academy.After 17 months at the university, he left to focus on BlakeArts full-time. He is well known in the performing arts community internationally and in theCaribbean and has received numerous accolades.
“But being able to come and offer my servicesto engagementslike thisis reallyfulfilling because I feelthat as performers, especially for a very long time, we should pass on the information we have to make sure the next generation has the tools they need to be sustainable.”
David invited fellow cast colleague, KarleneWray, acclaimedsinger, actress,and drama coach to conduct a singing and drama workshop for the Bahamian youth.
With herbongo drum, she taughtthem a song from the Lion King, which they performed duringtheir Pride ofthe Bahamas andtribute showcaseatthe MiltonCommunity Center in Hackney, on April 23.
During the workshop,she gave students anauthentictasteofadayinthelifeofamusicaltheatre professional,guiding andinstructing them through script analysis, performance techniques,and industryexpectations.Sheemphasised theimportanceof reputation and work ethic in the industry:
“Ifyouleave somewherewithagood reputation, they will call you back. I haven’t been in The Lion King since 2009, but I still return to do roles because of how I left.”
To thestudents, sheoffered heartfeltencouragement:
“Your skillsare a blessing.May God bless youand causeHis faceto shineupon you,” were her departing words to them following the workshop.
Karlenehasan impressiverepertoirein musical theatre. With a career spanning over two decades,she has performedin standout roles in The Lion King (Zazu), Sister Act (Delores), Ghost the Musical (Odamae and Claraon occasions),AndrewLloyd Webber’sJesus ChristSuperstar, andThe Harder TheyCome, amongothers. Herversatile talent has taken her across the UK and internationally to Ireland and Trinidad. Karlene’sfoundation intheperforming arts began in herteens. Trained in drama from the age of 14,she later pursued a degreein contemporarydanceto ensureshe becamea "triplethreat" a strongactor, singer, and dancer.That dedication opened
DAVID Blake
doors inprofessional theatre,where shehas worked consistently ever since.
Now also a performing arts teacher and soonto-be school administrator,she is passionate about nurturing young talent.
Karlene also shared herdeep respect and admiration forDavid Blake, describing himas a close friend and an advocate for cultural exchange and youth development.
Wray also provides performing arts training in her mother’s native countryof St Kitts, supporting the same kind of international exchange they both value deeply.
“I have a huge amount of respect for him and his level of workmanship and his commitment tothearts. He’s always championing and training the next generationand sharing Caribbean culture with the UK and vice versa. And that is something that we share in common.”
Theirfriendship, whichbegan duringtheir timein TheLionKing, hasgrowninto ameaningful professionalcollaboration rootedin mutual respect and artistic synergy.
Workingwith world-classprofessionalswas aphenomenal experiencefor theBahamian performers, and forged a meaningful connectionthat couldpave thewayfor futurecultural exchanges and workshops with David Blake in The Bahamas.
KARLENE Wray
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. TODAY’S TARGET Good 14; very good 21; excellent 28 (or more). Solution on Monday
Yesterday’s Sudoku 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 on Monday
THE ALPHABEATER
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 on Monday Extra 0907
Yesterday’s Kakuro Answer
Fashion Report with Cara Hunt and Jeffarah Gibson
The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute benefit gala celebrating the opening of the "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" exhibition under the theme Tailored for You.
Diana Ross in Ugo Mozze
Hit
Cara says: She owned the “blue” carpet atthis event,no oneelse broughtthe dramathewayMissRossdid,itwasjusttrue toher divaform. Ialso reallyloved thatthe namesofher familyandgrandchildrenwere embroidered onthe train. Shekilled it – he end.
Farah says: Wow shewas very very stunning atthis year’s Met gala.Her look was also reminiscent ofthe look that Rihanna did with the very big cream dress and the rose. I liked thatshe played with the theme and wentall out. That iswhat we like to see at the Met Gala.
Zendaya in Louis Vuitton
Hit
Cara says: There is justsomething to stunningabout awoman ina simpleelegant white tuxedo and when you add that to Zendaya’s naturalbeauty youhave a winner.
Farah says: This year’s metgala themewas takeninavery literalsenseby many of the attendees. Zendaya’s look to me wasabitbasic eventhoughshelooksreally good. Thelook is definitely tailoredto her and herfit and Ilove theall white, butI just feel shemissed theopportunity thatthe Met Galaprovides toa bitmore outrageous,but she was not the only one.
Hit
Cara says: If ever atheme was “tailored” made for someone,this one was for Janelle, her suit within a suit look was so striking. It reminded me of those mob bosses from the 1920s, but at the same it also had an animatedfeel toit.If youareever gongto layitalloutfashionwise,theMetGalaisthe place to do it andpeople had high expectationsofwhatshewouldwearevenbeforethe day.
Farah says: So veryeye catching, very intriguing and very interesting. However, JonelleMonae has givenus this look before.We areso usedto seeingher in tailored suits, that this look does not have the kind of impactthat you would want.It almostlooks “jokerish” and Iguess that’s fine for the Met Gala. But maybe if it was someone else wearing it, it would have had more impact,but she looks reallyon theme, but we have seen it on her before.
Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz in Moncler
Split
Cara says: I likedthe couple matching moment.There wasa lotof pinstripe on the blue carpet and I loved that they went for amore vibrant take ratherthan the basicwhite blackgreyAlicia’s pufferstyle jacket/wrap wasan extrabit ofdrama. ButI didn’t like her headpiece.
Farah says: Pinstripes were definitelyathing onthecarpet.This wasacomplete flop andflunk. This did notdo it for me.I don’t likethepinstripeI don’t like the colour.I justdid notlikehow AliciaKeys presented herself.I don’t likewhat she is wearing on her head. This is just a miss. And while Swizz Beats suit wasnot too bad, I didn’t need the do rag on his head.
Rihanna in Marc Jacobs Hit
Cara says: I love this whole look. She isserving upQueenBossMom andIam here for it all. She is just one of those women who lookamazing in whatevershe wears and alwayslooks fabulouswhen sheis expecting.
Farah says: At firstglance Iwas not completely soldon it.But thenI sawit in movement Igot it.She hitit fora pregnant woman, Andeven though I thoughther look last year was outstanding, this one gets the job done. Againit does not havethat drama thatI wouldhave likedto haveseen herdisplay.
Doechii In Louis Vuitton
Miss Cara says: Ithink shelooks basic,I alwaysloveanafro andwhilethesuitis technically on theme this is an outfit that wouldI expectifI sawher atalunch ona random Tuesday. For anevent like the Met Gala, shereally needed totake itup several notches and bring out full drama. Farah says: Idon’tgetthislook.Isee what she is trying to do but it does not work. I don’t like the dated afro paired with this particular tailoredpantsuit, it’svery 1800s English and I am nota fan of the colour scheme she chose.
Simone Biles in Harbison Studio
Split
Cara says: This blue issooo pretty. Simoneissotinyshealwayslookslikesheis playing dress-upso Ilove themini wasnot overwhelmingonher especiallywhenyou add thedrama ofthe trainand bow.The details and the collar on the dress were very pretty and I lovethat she channeled entertainer Josephine Baker in the design. Farah says: Iam kind of torn.I can’t decideifIlikethis lookornot.Ilikethe colour,it isvery eye-catching,butas forit beingtailored, Ican’t saythatit wentwith the theme. I am not overly impressed.
Cara says: Ilove this equestrian meets madhatter look shehas goingonnow whether it’s true to the tailor made Black style theme is a little bit open to interpretation, but she made a stunning statement on the blue carpet.
Farah says: ok Iam loving Jodie Turner-Smi h’s look on the carpet, love the different textures, love the shape, love that is a coat, but also hasthis ballgown effect plus it’sapant suitinone.Sheate ontheblue carpet and I love the cute accent hat - very differentand shetookadvantageof thefact that it is the Met Gala, I love it.
Janelle Monae in Thom Browne and Paul Tazewell
Jodie Turner-Smith in Burberry Hit
Evan Agostini/Invision/AP
The art of helping
By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
The Bahamas Humane Societyrecentlygot afacelift thanks to the efforts of more than50 volunteerswho donated theirtalents by painting amural onthe shelter’s wall.
Elena Bargo who has been a volunteer dogwalker atBHS explained thatshe andseveral other volunteerscame upthe with the initial idea.
“The wall hasbeen in a state of disrepairfor quite sometimeand ofcoursewe would passit everytime we came towalk thedogs. It badly needed to be repaired and given a facelift because it did not in anyway reflect the wonderful care that the animals inthe shelterhave been given.”
Ateam ofvolunteers
tackled the project with the first phase being to repair the actual wall structure. A mural hadpreviously beenpainted there but had overtime faded.
Whenitcame timetorepaint the wall, rather than just paint it a solid colour they wanted to brighten up the space not justfor the shelter staff, volunteers and visitors, butthe entireneighborhood andpasserbyas wellbycreating another mural.
“We reachedout tonoted artist Angelika Wallace Whitfield and she immediately agreed. She is an animal lover andshesaid thatshehadhad the BHSwall on herlist of areas she would have liked to paint and soshe designed the mural(the designofwhich wasapproved bytheBHS board of directors) and led volunteers in its completion.”
Elena explained that BHS wanted it tobe a community
project thatchildren and adults could both participants.
“Angelikastenciled outthe designonthe wallinbigsections,so that it would be easy for everyoneto pick aspot to paint and wegot donations and discounts on the paint and the supplies.”
There were two painting days and 55 persons showed up to lend their support.
“The response was overwhelming,I didnot thinkthat thatmany personswould show up.
She said that this was a way to giveback that wasnot animal handson. Thisproject
goes beyond aesthetics, its about turning the BHS into a more welcomingcommunitycentred space that encourages bothlocals andvisitorsto visit, adopt and get involved.
TheBHS hasa numberof additional volunteer programmes including:
The DogWalking group (Wednesdays 9-11am and Saturdays from 10am-12pm)
ThePotcake PuppyParty - bathingand preppingpuppies for the popular Baha Mar cuddle sessions where visitors can donate to spend time, with the pups
Other opportunitiesinclude freedom flightsupport,
COMMUNTIY Art project taking place at the Humane Society. Volunteers gather to paint Mural at the Humane Society on May 3, 2025.
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
theatre
Pulse Theatre debuts with Love On A Two Way Street
By BY JEFFARAH GIBSON
Tribune Features Writer
jgibson@tribunemedia.net
THE newestkid onthe block, PulseTheatre Bahamas, makesits highly anticipated debut withthe “Love on a Two-Way Street” described as a “gripping and emotionally charged” production written and directed by E Antoinette Knowles. Set topremiere atthe StJohn’s CollegeAuditorium onJune6-7, the playexplores theintricate dance betweenlove andambition, betrayal and forgiveness.
According tothe playwright, audienceswill notonly beentertained but to seethemselves in the stories unfolding on stage.
“The production isn’t justaplay it’s a declarationof purpose for
Pulse TheatreBahamas. Loveon a Two-Way Street alignsseamlessly with the mission and vision of Pulse Theatre by delivering a powerful,emotionallychargednarrative rootedin universalthemes,” Ms Knowles told Tribune Weekend.
“It reflectsthe complexitiesof Bahamian life while touching on global experiences.”
Fromthe momentshepenned the first scene,Ms Knowles knew this was the storyto launch her company. “Wechose Loveona Two-Way Street as our debut productionbecause itspeaksdirectly totheemotional coreofwhatwe aim todo tell storiesthat are honest, culturallygrounded, and deeply human,” she said.
Thisstory capturesthecomplexityofrelationshipsandthepersonal choices that shape our lives.”
Ms Knowles, who was mentored by the lateBahamian theatre legend JamesJ Catalyn,credits him withhelpingtoshapehervoiceasa playwright.
“James had a gift for telling stories that made people laugh while still touchingtheir hearts, and thatspirit liveson inthis production.
“One of the last things he said to me was, ‘Finish it,’ and that simple encouragement became a driving force. It wasmore than advice it was a blessing.”
And finish it, she did.
Audiencescan expecta “fully immersive theatricalexperience that feelsboth intimateand electric”.
We are creating an atmosphere filled with emotion, energy, and authenticity,” Ms Knowles said.
“Thelaughteris real,thetension is palpable,and thecharacters feel like people youknow. We want people toleave notonly entertained butmoved thinking about the choiceswe make inlove and life, andhow they shapewho we become.”
WhileLove onaTwo-Way Street drawson universalthemes, its setting andstorytelling remain deeplyrooted inthe Bahamianexperience she said.
“In the Bahamian context, where ourculturalidentity isshapedby close-knitrelationships andshared experiences, stories like this allow usto seeourselveson stage.It opens up spacefor conversations about trust, choices, and second chances reminding us that emotional truthand connectionare just as important as material success.”
Theplay recentlyreceiveda
Star from the local film board,a distinctionandKnowles sees as a significant milestone.
She believes it’s “a vote of confidencein ourvision totell powerful, culturally relevant stories with excellence and heart”.
“It validates our mission to uplift Bahamian talentand stories.This recognitiontellsus weareonthe right path.It shows thatour voices deserveaspotlight andthatBahamian theatrehas thepower to move peopleand makea lasting impression.”
Asopening nightapproaches, audiences are invitedto take their seats andprepare fora storythat promisesto lingerlong afterthe final bow.
“It’s more than a play. It’sa shared experiencethat speaksto theheartofwhat itmeanstobe human and Bahamian.”
Gold
pageants art wellness
Brown Gyal Living infuses Bahamian culture into self-care
By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
TWO Bahamianwomen areon amissionto make wellness feel personal, powerfuland proudly local. Brown Gyal Living, the brainchild of ShereinaRolle andChristina Strachan, blendsaromatherapy withBahamianflairtocreatealifestyle brandthat is equalparts selfcare and cultural celebration.
Bothwomen comefrombackgrounds in hospitalityand tourism, where the practice of thoughtful gifting was second nature.
They shared a passion for aromatherapy and recognized the need for moments ofmindfulness in their own fast-pacedlives. That shared vision led to the creation of abrandthatoffersrelaxationwitha
distinctively Bahamian twist.
“From the hospitality and tourism industry, we’dalways ensurethatourclientshadatakeaway from their experiencein The Bahamas,” they said.
The ladiestold Tribune Weekend, byway ofworking ina fast-pacedenvironment, theyunderstood theimportance ofand placed ahigh valueon self-care and being able to unwind from the stressors of their everyday lives.
From the very beginning, the goal was to create something more than justa productline. They wanted to build a brand that felt familiar, empowering and true to their roots.
“We wanted toensure that BGL captured our truest essence and ensured that the feelings and thoughts evokedwere onesthat werenot only representative oftwo Bahamian gyals with a ‘dolla and a
dream’ but also, one that everyone could resonate with,” said the ladies.
Their signature 'gyal logo' reflects this identity, atribute to Bahamianwomen whoarestrong, bold, and full of personality.
“We’rewomanish, biggety,hard headed and strong. But not only do wepossess thoseculturalqualities distinctive inBahamian women alike,we wantedto honein onthe factthat we’re women, daughters, mothers, sisters andfriends,” said the ladies.
The brand’s aromatherapy-based products are alldesigned to promote calm,clarity andconnection throughscent. Fromshower steamers and botanical bath salts to sugar scrubcubes andsoy candles, theofferings aimto improvewellness in meaningfuland accessible ways.
“The applicationof ourvaried products suchas showersteamers impactsthe olfactorysystemand nervoussystem whichultimately can have a significant impact on one’s mood,” they said.
Shereina andChristina alsoinfusetheir ownroutines intothe brand. Shereina’s favoriteshower steamertostart thedayis ‘Energy Booster’. Theblend ofessential oils such aslemon, bergamot, and orange energize her for the day ahead and uplifts spirits.
Onthe otherhand,Christina prefers the ‘Calming Lavender’
shower steamer to end the day as it helps tocombat the feelingof fatigueandalleviate thefeelingsof stress and anxiety from her day.
Newlyaddedto thelinein December2020, BrownGyal Livingnow offerscandles,reed diffusers, car diffusers, soothing salvesandmore. Eachproductis thoughtfully packaged, often using recyclableand reusablematerials to align withthe brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Theirsignature scentlinenow includessevencustomblends,each with a distinct name that pays homagetolocal slangandculture; from “Trapsy” and “Gin and Coconut Water” to “Muddasick Bey” and “ Sweet T’ing in Da Can.”
“We alsospecialise incurated giftingforall oflife’s commemorativemoments. Ourcuratedgift boxesareour mostsoldproduct which we have had the esteemed pleasureof providingforlocal hotel brands,” they added.
Astheyapproach fiveyearsin business, the duois planning to commemorate the milestone with a special celebration.
“It isimportant tocontinue to blendqualitywithculture.AsaBahamian, women-owned business, we want to inspire,uplift, and support our own,” they said.
Brown Gyal Livingalso has its sights set onlaunching a fully functional online storeand con-
tinuingtowork alongsidelocalartisans and vendors.
“Wewantyouto beabletosee ‘us’– twoproud Bahamian gyals andknow thatwe getit andwe’re heretoassist youbypouringlove and lightinto ourgift toyou,” said the ladies.
Readersare askedto stayconnected with BrownGyal Living on social media (@browngyalliving on all platforms) to follow their journey and explore what’s next.
CHRISTINA Strachan and Shereina Rolle
Inaugural Pet Stem Cell Conference
By KIM ARANHA
Iwent to a very interesting eventlast Saturdaywithmy fellow board member, Mrs AnnMarie Davis,wifeof our PrimeMinister. Iwas honouredtohave beenincludedas a guest to theInaugural Pet Stem Cell Conference, held at the Goldwynn Resort.
IsomehowexpectedthatIwould not find it to be the kind of seminar thatwouldhold myattention.Iam nota scienceperson, butmuch more art and music lover, an artist or a romantic so to speak.
Was I ever wrong!I had thought thatI wouldslipoutpolitely afew hours into thepresentations. Absolutelynot. Isat inmy seatriveted and totally fascinated as the various speakers came forward and spoke. In fact, I couldn’t get enough, and wasalways hand up high ready with a question.
MrsDavis gaveopeningremarks, which wasexciting as she
serves onthe BHS boardas our treasurerand hasfor overten years.Present alsowereseveral Humane Societystaff andsupporters.
Thepresident oftheVeterinary MedicalAssociation ofTheBahamasalso gavea veryinteresting and supportivewelcome tothe presenters and audience.
Bahamian Dr Keith Cox tackled atopicthat Ihaveneverthought would interest me. He spoke about the advancements ofstem cell technology for food production, suchasmeats, seafood,andother products ofanimal origin.I was absolutely spellbound howthey can createmeat thatisn’t meatbut is meat because it was created from stemcellstakenfor acow,pigor Lamb.The entireprocess wasexplained very clearly and coherently byDrCox andtheamazementof the audience was audible.
IanJenkins,who isanAIspecialist, captivated us with the fas-
cinating prospect of prolonging our lives by an additional 50 percent, it also sentmy mind whirlingas to what 140-year-old Kim would be working onand would shestill be saying that “one dayI will write a book”
Ian Jenkins also showed us some veryinteresting graphsthat showed thenumber ofanimals usedandkilledin thenameofscience.
So manycompanies useanimals forresearch andyetthe testresults arealmost neverused. Whatwas sad tohear isall thesecompanies thatstilluse animalstoprovethe efficacity and safetyof their product, 95% of the products that passanimal testsfailin thehuman trials. Thereis a very realneed for more predictive,human-relevant modelsandThese cannowavailable.
Millions of animalsdie in cruel and senseless tests for no good reason than it iswhat we have al-
ways done. 85%of the population of the UnitedStates of American agree that it is time to phase animal testing out.
Isavethebest forlast.Avery personable,fascinating andwarm DrJonathan LakeyfromCanada, stoodonthe podiumanddescribed how his life questhas been a researchfocus incell isolationand preservation,including stemcells andtheirproducts withafocuson insulin producing cellsfrom the pancreas for humans. However, Dr Lakey hada doghe loveddearly andoneday henoticedthathis furryfriend couldn’tjump upon the bed because of arthritis.
Likesomany ofusthisdistressed him, his dog was not that old but alreadyarthritis was interferingwith hisqualityof life.He said hesuddenly thoughtif he could help humans live a better life using stemcells, why notdo the same for dogs, and particularly this dog of his. I won’t try to go into the scientific details, but after one singleinjection intothe dogsoffending jointand hewas jumping up on the bed again. One single injection of anon-chemical nature. He hasalso usedcultured canine mesenchymal stem cells in the
Pet of the week
"North, South, East,and West" which isbest? Today,clearly it's East, who is the last of her litter of four still available for adoption atthe BahamasHumaneSociety. Eastcame inwith hersiblings two anda half years agoas small pups. Today, Eastis grown and loves going out on the dog walks. She'd alsoreally loveto finda home of her own. East is good withotherdogs,notsomuchwith cats. Doyou needsome direction in your life? East might just help youfind it!Comeinto theBHS tomeether orcall323-5138for more information. East looks forward to meeting you!
TheBHS ThriftShop isopen and ready to sellyou all kinds of wonderful things!Books,
treatmentof indolentulcers.He showed photosof dogswith dreadful eye conditions,and ulcers, andthe results afterjust one treatment was spectacular.
Dr Lakey quickly became my hero, and the morehe spoke, the more excited I became. This could revolutionise animalcare andhelp ourbeloved petenter theirgold yearsina carriageratherthana gurney have invitedDr Lakey to return to TheBahamas. So many people were unawareof the amazingtopics werebeingdiscussed behind the finery of Goldwynn.
In a room fullof highly skilled veterinarians, Isat andheard their nods of approval, and felt very much a part ofthis brilliant innovativetechnology thatcan helppets as well.
I often accuseThe Bahamas of not being interested in companion animals, inthis casewe putour best footforward lastweek andI am ready to be there next year for the follow-upand secondPet Stem Cell Conference.
Thank youto all thepeople who made that conferencepossible, I was humbled bythe great brains present in that room.
clothing, housewares,art, and much more!Wednesday/Thursday/Friday 11am to 3pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm. Donations arealways gratefully accepted. All fundsraised go to the BHS.(Bring yourshopping bag with you!)
PERCY Grant (general manager), Kim Aranha (president), Ann Marie Davis (treasurer), Dr Nigel Wlliott (director of operations), Dr Valentino Grant (board member and veterinary consultant) with friend of the Bahamas Humane Society Dr Keith Cox.
PHOTO of East by Judy Young.
Louis &Steen’s, The Bahamas’ first specialty coffee brand,continues its strategic expansion opening a third locationat thehistoric JohnWatling’s Distillery.
The newest cafébrings the brand’s signature Louisiana charm tothe heartof historic Downtown Nassau, offering artisanalcoffee andconvenient grab-and-go menu options.
Sinceits inceptionin2016, Louis &Steen’s knownfor its premium coffeeand soulful Southern cuisine has earned a stronglocal andinternational following.
The family-owned company, named inhonour of Louis andEarnestine “Steen” Carter proud Louisiananatives buildson alegacyof family, hospitality, and culinary traditions,now rooted in The Bahamas through the couple’s descendants.
The John Watling’s location blendsthe bestoftwo ofthe brand’s successfulconcepts theflagship Louis& Steen’s |Market Orléans,a
Louis & Steen’s Coffee House expands again
full-service coffeehouse, micromarket, andkitchenin western NewProvidence and Louis & Steen’s | Xpresso Bar atRUBiS Gladstone,ahightraffic location offering beverages, pastries, and grab-andgo meals.
“This third location representsourabilitytothoughtfully scale our brand by creating intentionalspaces ateach outlet,” said DavinRussell, vice president.
“Aswegrow, wearecommitted totailoring eachoutlet to meet the unique clientele that weserve whilestaying rooted in what makes Louis & Steen’s special. Partnering with JohnWatling’s allowsus anopportunity todo thissuccessfully.”
The café isalready being well received bythe neighbouring businesscommunity and tourists alike.With serene surroundings, the location offers a peaceful retreat in the middle of Nassau’s bustling city center.
“This newlocation bringsa bit of theMarket Orléans culture to the heart of Nassau. Our goal was tocreate a relaxing place where both locals
FROM LEFT, TaraRussell, managingdirector, LarryRussell, Sr,president, JoyceCarterRussell, vice president, Davin Russell, vice president of Louis & Steen's New Orleans Coffeehouse along with Pastor Kersch Darville of Bahamas Faith Ministries International.
andtourists couldslow downand recharge.Based on theinitial feedback,I thinkwehavehitthatmark,” said Tara Russell, managing director.
And the growth for Louis & Steen’s doesn’t stop here a fourth location opensthis weekatthe RUBiSgas stationon Shirley Street. That location features the brand’s specialtycoffee, afullkitchen and grab-and-goofferings, further expanding the brand’s footprintacross the island and reinforcing Louis & Steen’s positionasa leader in the specialty coffee and food and beverage space in The Bahamas.
