I S around da
Cyndi Lauper made Atlantis an unforgettable '80s celebration
Winning Bahamasair tickets ‘a sign’ to travel again says Monalisawinner
MONALISA Stubbs is the lucky winner of The Tribune’s Bahamasair-sponsored competition inside last week’s Around da Islands supplement.
Ms Stubbs, a trust ofcer at a local company, correctly recognised the photograph displayed as having been taken from the Hermitage on Mt Alvernia, Cat Island.
She was randomly selected for the prize of two roundtrip tickets to any Bahamasair Family Islands destinations.
Ms Stubbs says that she is a faithful daily reader of the Tribune’s online edition and while she has only recently started reading Around Da Islands she loves the new section.
She loves travelling and says winning the tickets is a signal for her to resume domestic travel.
“A few years ago, my family and I had made the plan to travel to a diferent family island every year,” she said.
“In 2019, we went to Cat Island and then the next year you know what happen – Covid – so Cat Island was the only island, we actually visited. So these tickets are a sign that we need to start this up again, I am so excited!”
Mt Alvernia, also known locally as Como Hill, is the highest point in The Islands of The Bahamas at 206 feet (63 meters).
It was named Mount Alvernia by Monsignor John Hawes, a Roman Catholic priest. It is said to be reminiscent of La Verna, the hill in Tuscany that was given to St Francis of Assisi as a place where he could peacefully contemplate and is reportedly where Assisi received the Wounds of the Cross.
Monsignor John Hawes, known to Cat Islanders as Father Jerome, was a skilled architect and sculptor, a self-described contemplative and admirer of St. Francis of Assisi.
Using local stone, he built The Hermitage on the peak of Mt Alvernia in 1939, a small medieval monastery where he could get away from the world. The way up the hill to the monastery is via a stone staircase on a steep rocky incline. You can see Father Jerome's beautiful and detailed hand-carved stone reliefs of the Stations of the Cross along the way, and the 360-degree view around the lush island from the top will be awe-inspiring.
Father Jerome is also known for building cathedrals and convents throughout The Bahamas, including on Long Island and New Providence. He died in 1956 and is said to be buried somewhere on the site of The Hermitage.
MONALISA STUBBS, the lucky winner of The Tribune’s Bahamasair-sponsored competition
This WEEK in Around da IslandsBahamian News, Features & Culture
GRAND BAHAMA NEWS
Pg 4 — YMCA promotes water safety skills inspired by plane survivor's journey
Pg 5 — Fun and development is focus of GB soccer camp
Pg 6 — Breaking ground on a dream decades in the making
Pg 7 — Taino Beach tra c safety under scrutiny as Goombay Summer Festival returns
EXUMA FEATURES
Pgs 8 & 9 — Creating pathways for young people to thrive
NEW PROVIDENCE FEATURES
Pg 10 — Nassau among top boating destinations
Pg 10 — Beyond the Mainsail: Captain Peg and Redemption
Pg 11 — Lauper show reveals girls do still want to have fun
Pg 12 — Island Brainwaves
Pg 13 — Author and publisher has #1 bestseller on Amazon chart in Prime Day promotion
Pgs 14 & 15 — Radio House partners with Baha Bar and e Perfume Bar for extravagant father’s day giveaway
For advertising contact:
The Tribune: tribads@tribunemedia.net
Phone: 242.502.2394
Grand Bahama 242 News: 242newsbahamas@gmail.com
Send story and feature suggestions to: Islands@tribunemedia.net
COVER Cyndi Lauper | Tim Aylen
YMCA promotes water safety skills inspired by plane survivor's journey
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
THE plane crash on Election Day has renewed discussion about a life-saving skill many Bahamian adults are lacking; how to swim.
A Grand Bahama native who survived the crash revealed during an international interview that one of her greatest fears throughout the ordeal was that she could not swim. Her story has prompted the YMCA to highlight the importance of adult swim education and water survival training.
YMCA Executive Director Karon Pinder-Johnson told Around da Islands: “The interview with the lady said the plane fell in the water and she didn’t know how to swim. We wanted to do something on it to let people know that the Y has a programme, and that it’s important, even if they just learn the basics, the foating and survival aspect.”
Ms Pinder-Johnson notes the organisation’s Adult Learn-to-Swim programme is designed for people of all experience levels; from complete beginners to former swimmers looking to regain confdence in the water.
“We have persons who will be learning to swim for the frst time, and we have persons who are reintroducing themselves to swimming, and
ADULT learn-to-swim programmes are back in the spotlight after a very publicised plane crash on Election Day, where one of the passengers admitted to not knowing how to swim. The YMCA Adult Learn-to-Swim programme is designed for people of all experience levels, from complete beginners to former swimmers looking to regain confidence in the water.
Photos: YMCA
THE PROGRAMME is held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., after children’s activities have ended, giving adult participants a comfortable learning environment.
then you have persons who are swimmers and just want to use it as recreation for themselves,” Mrs Pinder-Johnson said. “So, our adult learning-to-swim is going well.”
The programme is
held Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., after children’s activities have ended, giving adult participants a comfortable learning environment.
Mrs Pinder-Johnson said the crash survivor’s account underscores why even basic swimming and foating skills are essential. Noting that fear often becomes overwhelming when individuals have little or no understanding of how to respond in the water.
whom Mrs Pinder-Johnson described as highly experienced in teaching adults.
“Coach Knowles is very knowledgeable and versed in teaching adults how to swim,” she said. “Taking adults from not wanting the water to touch their faces to swimming laps.”
The classes are conducted in an adult-only environment, which many participants fnd encouraging.
“That was her greatest fear,” Mrs Pinder-Johnson said. “After the aircraft hit the ocean, she couldn’t swim. Her fear factor just went through the roof.”
While no one can control the ocean or the circumstances of an emergency, she emphasised that learning simple survival techniques can make a signifcant diference.
“You can’t fght with the ocean, you can’t fght with water,” she said. “But if you learn to relax, your body will foat. It’s as simple as that. Just to relax.”
The YMCA’s adult swim classes focus on building confdence gradually, helping participants overcome fears and develop essential water safety skills. Instruction is led by Coach Ashton Knowles,
“You don’t have the kids around, and it's an adult environment,” Mrs Pinder-Johnson added. “Then they make it fun.”
The YMCA hopes the recent tragedy serves as a reminder that learning to swim is not only a recreational skill but also a potentially life-saving one. Even mastering basic foating, breathing, and survival techniques can increase confdence and improve safety around water.
Registration for the program is $15, and lessons are $10 per class. Applications are available at the YMCA.
In addition to the YMCA programme, another swimming initiative is being ofered this summer by certifed swim coach Tifany Sweeting-Smith, of Mrs Tifany’s Learn to Swim Programme. Sessions begin June 22 to August 1 at the Bishop Michael Eldon School (BMES) pool.
Mrs Sweeting-Smith said the programme ofers two sessions on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 12 noon and from 12 to 1 p.m. “Each session is $25 per person per hour.”
Registration is open and interested persons can contact Mrs Tifany at tlsweetingsmith@hotmail.com or Mrs Tifany’s Learn to Swim on Facebook.
YMCA Executive Director Karon Pinder-Johnson.
Fun and development is focus of GB soccer camp
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
NEARLY 100 young footballers took part in the Grand Bahama Soccer Club’s annual Girls and Boys Soccer Camp, which wrapped up this week at the YMCA pitch in Freeport.
The camp was held in two sessions, with girls from June 15-19 and boys taking the feld June 22-26. The youngsters, ranging in age between seven and 18, attended a full day of camp from 9am to 3pm, working on ball mastery - passing, receiving, fnishing - teamwork and game strategy, while also taking part in fun competitions and activities. Coaches from US college soccer programmes joined local staf to provide specialized training and mentorship.
Grand Bahama Soccer Club President Mary Wooside-Knowles said the girls’ camp numbers were lower than usual.
“We had maybe 45 girls this year,” Mrs Knowles said. “I think some people were worried about the heat, but we live in a hot climate. We make sure they have lots of water breaks, we have tents, and we ensure the children get rest when they need it.”
Mrs Knowles noted that the camp continues to provide tremendous value for families.
The boys’ camp attracted more than 50 participants, and Mrs Knowles said she was particularly proud of the club’s young coaching staf, many of whom came through the programme themselves.
“Most of our coaches are in their 20s and nearly all of them played college soccer,” Mrs Knowles said. “They’ve been phenomenal. We have to stop looking outside for good coaching and recognise the quality we have right here in our own young people.”
Beyond soccer skills, Mrs Knowles said the camp emphasises life lessons, including teamwork, communication and confict resolution.
“Parents have to understand that children need opportunities to work through problems on their own. Those are important lessons they’ll carry with them long after soccer.”
Among the visiting coaches was John Haworth of Savannah College of Arand
THE YOUNGSTERS, who ranged in age between seven and 18, attended a full day of camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., working on ball mastery - passing, receiving, finishing - teamwork and game strategy, while also taking part in fun competitions and activities.
“It’s a fantastic camp,” Mr Haworth said. “It’s full of fun, full of laughter and there are so many young players here enjoying themselves. Our goal is to make sure everyone has fun while learning more about soccer.
“The camp has grown every year, and that's because of Coach Mary and Coach Donnie,” he said. “They put their heart and soul into this. They do it for the love of the game and for the community.”
Design (SCAD) in Savannah, Georgia, who returned to Grand Bahama for his third year.
RAND Bahama Soccer Club’s annual Girls and Boys Soccer Camp, which wrapped up this week at the YMCA pitch in Freeport, featured nearly 100 young footballers attending the camp.
Photos: Grand Bahama Soccer Club
GRAND Bahama Soccer Club President Mary Wooside-Knowles said it was exciting to see the girls' personalities pop out. "I love to see their confidence grow during the week."
Breaking ground on a dream decades in the making
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
WHAT began with basketball games in the Garden Villas community in downtown Freeport, mentoring young boysand feeding families in need, has grown into a multimillion-dollar vision for youth empowerment.
On Friday, June 19, community leaders, government ofcials, corporate partners, and residents gathered on Ponce de Leon Drive in East Coral Estates to break ground at the site of the new Reach Out Youth Development Centre, a $1.6 million hurricane-resilient facility powered by The Nassau Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.
For Reach Out Founder Dudley Seide and his wife Katie, the ceremony marked the realisation of a dream
more than two decades in the making.
“I had a vision that one day we’ll have a facility where we can house young men,” Mr Seide said. “We’ve always wanted to have a hurricane shelter, and today is a dream come true.”
The groundbreaking represents the latest chapter in a journey that began whenMr Seide, a taxi driver who had been a successful high school basketball athlete with dreams of playing on the Bahamian national team, started a breakfast program at Lewis Yard Primary School and an outreach efort in Garden Villas, commonly known as “The Ghetto.”
Alongside his wife, Katie, Mr Seide organised community basketball games to keep young boys away from trouble while ensuring they were fed and supported. Those eforts expanded into clothing and feeding drives, mentorship programmes, and eventually the Reach Out Community Centre on Banyan Lane, on property donated by the Grand Bahama Port Authority.
REACH Out Youth Development Centre (ROYDC) breaks ground for its $1.6 million hurricane-resilient facility powered by The Nassau Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.
Photos: ROYDC
Now, that work is set to reach new heights with the construction of a modern youth development facility expected to be completed within 12 months.
The centre will feature classrooms for after-school programmes, an indoor gymnasium, recreational spaces, and will also serve as a hurricane shelter for the wider community.
Refecting on the organisation’s early years, Mr Seide recalled frst approaching the Grand Bahama Port Authority with his vision in 2006.
“My frst time walking upstairs, I met Mr. Ian Rolle,” he said. “Back then, I had dreadlocks, and I wondered if Mr. Rolle would understand what I was trying to do. That bond today is a bond of friendship, a bond of loyalty, and Mr. Rolle has never left me from 2007 to today.”
Mr Seide expressed gratitude to the many sponsors and supporters who stood beside him throughout the years, noting that the centre’s design was completed free of charge, the land was cleared through government assistance, and corporate partners, including the Grand Bahama Power Company, contributed resources to move the project forward.
“The journey is not easy,” Mr Seide said. “My kids took a lot
of sacrifce. My wife Katie took a lot of sacrifce.”
Government ofcials attending the ceremony praised Mr Seide’s longstanding commitment to Grand Bahama’s youth.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg highlighted the impact Reach Out has had on countless young lives and pledged increased government support.
“The ministry gives Dudley an annual grant now, as we speak,” Mr Bowleg said. “Since I became the minister, I think Dudley thanked me for increasing that. But Dudley, I want to assure you that we will increase it again.”
Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey also reafrmed her ministry’s commitment to the initiative.
“My ministry, through the Collab Unit that has been established, Collab Partnerships for Development, is always ready to support, and Dudley, I think, can attest to that,” Ms Moxey said.
President of the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) Ian Rolle commended the Seides for their commitment to the community.
“Every child regardless of their status deserves and opportunity,” Mr Rolle said. “When you lift up one child, you lift up a generation.”
The most moving moments of the ceremony when Mr Seide singled out several young men, who were impacted by Reach Out, particularly Travis Munnings, who now plays professional basketball overseas and McKell Bethel who credited Mr Seide with years of dedicated service to the community.
“He’s been a great mentor, a great father fgure,” Mr Bethel said. “He’s been doing work in the community for years, and I just want him to keep it up. I’m very proud of him, very thankful, and ready to help him along the way.”
FOUNDER of Reach Out Youth Organisation, Dudley Seide.
PRESIDENT of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Ian Rolle.
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
THE Ministry of Tourism’s annual Goombay Summer Festival is set to begin on Thursday, July 16, at the popular Taino Beach site in Grand Bahama, but while residents and visitors eagerly anticipate the weekly cultural celebration, concerns have surfaced regarding access to the festival grounds due to infrastructure changes at the Taino Beach Bridge area.
The Taino bridge, a fourlane roadway that provided access to the Taino Island, was closed last year to facilitate its demolition and replacement. In response, custodians of the infrastructure, Lucaya Service Company (LUSCO) and Tamarind Development Company, installed a temporary access two-lane causeway across the canal to maintain connectivity to the area.
Given the increased trafc volumes typically associated with Goombay Summer Festival events, questions have been raised about the capacity of the temporary roadway to safely accommodate festival patrons.
Nuvolari Chotoosingh, General Manager for Grand Bahama at the Ministry of Tourism, said ofcials are aware of the anticipated increase in trafc and are working with stakeholders to ensure public safety.
“As increased visitor and resident attendance is anticipated, the Ministry of Tourism will be working closely with our partners to ensure that access to the venue remains as safe and efcient as possible,” Mr Chotoosingh said.
“Higher-than-normal vehicle movement is expected during festival hours; however, the temporary access road was established to facilitate safe entry and exit to the event site.”
He encouraged attendees to exercise caution when traveling to and from the festival.
“We encourage patrons to exercise caution, follow posted signage, and allow additional travel time when attending the festival,” he added.
Taino Beach tra c safety under scrutiny as Goombay Summer Festival returns
Mr Chotoosingh told Around da Islands the ministry has partnered with the police to address concerns about trafc congestion and road safety, “Yes, the Ministry is collaborating with the Royal Bahamas Police Force and other relevant public agencies to support trafc management and public safety eforts throughout the event,” Mr Chotoosingh told Around da Islands. “Appropriate measures will be implemented to help maintain steady and orderly trafc fow and ensure the safety of all patrons attending the Goombay Summer Festival.”
Superintendent Christopher Farquharson,
Ofcer-in-Charge of the Grand Bahama and Northern Bahamas Trafc Division, confrmed that additional ofcers will be deployed throughout the festival period to enhance public safety, monitor trafc fow, and ensure motorists adhere to road trafc laws in an efort to prevent accidents and other incidents.
He noted that the festival is marketed as a continuous cultural experience and benefts from maintaining momentum through consecutive weekly events.
“Goombay Summer is marketed and enjoyed as a continuous festival experience, and maintaining consecutive weekly events allows for stronger momentum, greater community engagement, and a more consistent visitor experience,” Mr Chotoosingh said.
Around The Islands contacted Lucaya Service Company (LUSCO) for comment regarding trafc and access concerns related to the upcoming festival.
“Work on Taino Beach Bridge replacement project continues to progress as planned, with a major focus currently on the relocation of critical utility infrastructure,” LUSCO ofcials responded in a statement.
NUVOLARI
This year’s Grand Bahama Goombay Summer Festival has been reduced to three Thursdays rather than the traditional four because Independence Day falls on a Friday this year.
“The National Independence Tattoo at Independence Park will be held on Thursday, July 9,” Mr Chotoosingh explained. “As a result, it was determined that beginning the Goombay Summer Festival on July 3, pausing for a week, and then resuming on July 16 would not provide the best experience for patrons or stakeholders.”
“Earlier this month, Grand Bahama Power Company began the process of rerouting its services from beneath the existing bridge structure to an overhead alignment. It is anticipated that communications providers, including ALIV and BTC, will commence similar relocation works over the coming days and into next week. The utility relocation phase is a critical prerequisite to the bridge’s demolition and reconstruction. Once all essential infrastructure has been successfully rerouted, active demolition of the existing bridge can begin,” the statement said.
“While this stage may not be the most visible aspect of the project, it is among the most important. These eforts are designed to ensure that residents and businesses on the south side of the bridge continue to receive uninterrupted access to essential services, including electricity and telecommunications, throughout both the demolition and reconstruction phases.”
The statement concluded: “We appreciate the public’s patience as this important work progresses and will continue to provide updates as key milestones are achieved.”
CHOTOOSINGH, General Manager for Grand Bahama at the Ministry of Tourism.
Photo: BIS
THE TAINO Beach Bridge, a four-lane roadway that provided access to Taino Island, was closed last year to facilitate its demolition and replacement.
Photo: BARBARA WALKIN
GIVEN the increased traffic volumes typically associated with Goombay Summer Festival events, questions have been raised about the capacity of the temporary roadway to safely accommodate festival patrons.
Photo: GB242NEWS
Creating pathways for youngtopeople thrive
creating an environment where students are encouraged to become
“Conquerors” in every aspect of their lives.
“I don't see Friends of Exuma as just donors or sponsors. I see them as true partners.” said Keniqua Burrows, Founder and Director of Exuma Christian Academy.
“Today, four of our students benefted from their scholarship fund. These scholarships help our graduates with their accommodations, their fights, and the startup costs of getting to university. Times are difcult for many of our families, so every bit of help goes a long way. Friends of Exuma has always supported our school, and we look forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come.”
Friends of Exuma is investing in the next generation of leaders with two grants supporting scholarship awards at Exuma Christian Academy and the Nelson A. Ranger Scholarship Fund.
The donations, totaling $20,000, will help ensure that deserving students have access to educational opportunities that nurture their talents, reward their hard work, and empower them to pursue their dreams.
For Friends of Exuma, the impact of these scholarships goes beyond tuition. They create pathways for young people to thrive and give Exuma's brightest minds the support they need to become the island's future leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. On a small island where college costs fall squarely on families, that support is often what turns a dream into a plan.
“Exuma is flled with remarkable young people whose talent, determination, and character inspire all of us,” said Bob Coughlin, President of Friends of Exuma. “These scholarships are an investment in possibility. When we invest in our young people, we invest in the future of Exuma itself.”
For the graduates, the impact is deeply personal. Barr, now an Exuma Christian Academy graduate, plans to study management before training as a pilot, a future his scholarship helps put within reach while easing the cost his parents would otherwise have to carry.
“ Exuma is filled with remarkable young people whose talent, determination, and character inspire all of us.”
At Exuma Christian Academy’s 2026 commencement, four graduating seniors received Friends of Exuma scholarships: Jaylen McKenzie, who heads to law school in London at just 16 years of age with plans to return home as a corporate attorney, and one day start a scholarship fund of her own; Stanley Pitt, bound for the University of The Bahamas to pursue engineering and medicine; Winston Barr, the school’s head boy, on his way to study management and aeronautics to become a pilot; and Jeremy Clarke, also chasing his wings as a professional pilot to fy the world. Each one shares a single ambition: to bring their talents back home to The Bahamas.
Founded by educator Keniqua Burrows, Exuma Christian Academy has grown from a vision of faith and excellence into a thriving K–12 institution serving more than 100 students. The Academy has earned recognition for its commitment to academic achievement, leadership development, and
“Words simply cannot describe how I’m feeling. You made a dream become a reality,” he said. “This lifts a huge burden of my parents’ shoulders, and I’ll be sure to put it back into the community of this country.”
The Nelson A. Ranger Scholarship Fund was founded by Nelson Ranger, who benefted from scholarship opportunities as a young person and has dedicated himself to paying that gift forward. Through scholarships, educational initiatives, and youth programs, the fund has supported students pursuing college and technical education and has recognized excellence among students across Exuma.
“I know frsthand how one opportunity can change the trajectory of a young person’s life,” said Nelson Ranger. “Every scholarship is an investment in a dream and a reminder to our students that their community is standing beside them. I’m incredibly grateful to Friends of Exuma for helping us continue this important work.”
“Friends of Exuma believes that when communities invest in education, everyone benefts,” Coughlin added. “By supporting scholarship opportunities through trusted community partners, we continue our mission of strengthening the people, programs, and places that make Exuma extraordinary.” To learn more about Friends of Exuma's work supporting youth development, conservation, and cultural preservation across Great Exuma, please visit its website:
Ntrips platform, BoatBooker.
Asked why Nassau had made the list, BoatBooker responded: “Famous for its colonial architecture, bustling straw markets, and jaw-dropping neon-blue waters, the destination ofers an upscale tropical escape for travellers who want to blend classic American traditions with an international island fair.
“The local charter feets are fully prepared for summer vacationers, ofering an incredible selection of guided excursions through the surrounding cays.
“Casual travellers can hop onto a shared high-speed catamaran tour to swim with the famous pigs at Rose Island, or spend a relaxing afternoon on a guided snorkeling trip over vibrant shallow reefs. Many luxury resorts host massive Independence Day freworks displays, and booking a public sunset cocktail cruise provides the ultimate vantage point.”
The full list of the 10 Best Fourth of July Boating Destinations for 2026 was curated by analysing a mix of histor ical booking performance and early seasonal demand signals to identify the country's ultimate maritime hubs. They are:
Beyond the Mainsail: Captain Peg and Redemption
CARIBBEAN
Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to host the annual Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup. Now in its fourth year, the competition shines a spotlight on E-Class sloops and the rich tradition of Bahamian sailing.
Launched in December 2022, the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup measures the performance of participating sloops across three premier regattas: the Best of the Best Regatta, the National Family Island Regatta, and the Long Island Regatta.
At the conclusion of the Long Island Regatta, the sloop that accumulates the highest number of points across all three events is crowned the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup Champion. Throughout the six-month competition season, Bahamas Goombay Punch also celebrates the participating vessels by featuring them on limited-edition cans, bringing these iconic boats and their stories to consumers across the country.
Photo: boatbooker.com
Created to elevate and preserve the sport of sailing through both fnancial and promotional support, the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup continues to champion one of the nation’s most treasured traditions. In keeping with that mission, Llyod Sands of Captain Peg and Kevin Moxey of Redemption share the stories, history, and unique features that make their sloops stand out on and of the water.
To learn more about the Bahamas Goombay Punch Cup and Caribbean Bottling Company’s involvement in the community, follow on social media at @caribbean_bottling or visit the website www.cbcbahamas.com today.
Lauper show reveals girls do still want to have fun
By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
LEGENDARY singer and songwriter Cyndi Lauper proved that girls still wanna have fun at a special concert held at the Atlantis Resort at the weekend.
Many fans of the iconic star channeled their 80s inner child by wearing attire symbolic of that era such as ankle boots with lace socks, fshnet stockings under tulle mini skirts and sequined and leather jackets and big hair bows. It was a night to let the hair down and rock out with the signer who is currently fnishing of her farewell tour.
For many audience members, the evening was a rare chance to see an artist who has contributed to the soundtrack of their childhood in person. Leslie Thomas, who attended the concert with her two sisters as part of a sisters weekend trip to the Bahamas said: “ I can not remember how many times we used to listen to Girls Just Want To Have Fun and have dance parties. So when we got here and realised she was performing, we were like oh yea we have to go.”
Cyndi has quite the illustrious career with record sales in excess excess of 50 million. Her iconic voice, infuential punk glamour, and infectious live shows have cata pulted her to stardom.
She won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist with her frst album, She’s So Unusual, and became the frst woman in history to have four top-fve singles from a debut album. Since then, she has released ten additional studio albums,
She has been nominated for 15 Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, seven American Video Awards, and 18 MTV Awards. In 2013, Cyndi Lauper became the frst solo
woman to win Best Original Score (music and lyrics) for Kinky Boots. She contributed a Tony-nominated song to the score of the Broadway musical SpongeBob SquarePants and is currently writing the score for the Broadway adaptation of the 1988 feature flm Working Girl. She was been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015 and awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2016. She has also released a New York Times best-selling memoir, was honoured with Billboard’s Women In Music ICON Award in 2018 and the inaugural High Note Global Prize issued by United Nations Human Rights in 2019. In 2022 her famous music video for Girls Just Want To Have Fun joined the YouTube Billion
Concert goers were able to chose a bite to eat from one of the food trucks stationed at the concert village set up outside the grand ballroom ahead of
Cyndi wowed the crowd singing a variety of the songs which have made her a legend including When You Were Mine, She Bop, I Drove All Night, Change of Heart, Good Enough (from the movie the Goonies) and the emotional hauntingly beautiful Sally’s Pigeons. The singer is as vibrant and dramatic as ever, drawing in the audience in between songs even as she battled an hilarious wardrobe malfunction when a stocking snapped) and losing
But it was of course the fnal trio of songs that most
fans had come to hear and as soon as the introductory chords started playing, the crowd went wild.
First, the lights were dimmed and cells phone lights illuminated the ballroom as she sang the classic Time After Time, then the darkened room burst into a rainbow of lights for her breathy performance of True Colours and then it was a full on dance party for the fnaleGirls Just Want To Have Fun.
For the performance, Cyndi had asked renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama to create a stunning back drop featuring a bold pattern of red and white polka dots. Yayoi is considered one of the most prominent Japanese artists ever and perhaps the most successful artist world-wide.
Cyndi explained that she chose Yayoi because they had quite a few things in commonthey both have fought for women’s rights, share their creativity with the world and enjoy bold and colourful fashion.
At the end of the performance, Cyndi changed the iconic lyrics from Girls Just Want To Have Fun to Girls Just Want To Have Fundamental Rights – a nod to the organisation she founded to support eforts that advance women’s right and health care.
The concert was a part of the successful Atlantis Live Concert Series. Part proceeds beneft the Blue Project Foundation which was founded in 2005 with the mission of saving sea species and their extraordinary habitats.
By funding scientifc research, conservation programmes and community outreach eforts, The Foundation's mission is to protect the waters and its vast marine wildlife to ensure The Bahamas will remain a haven for a myriad of one-of-a-kind, rare and endangered species for generations to come.
Lauper’s Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour at Atlantis, Paradise Island Saturday, June
(Tim Aylen/Bahamas Visual Services)
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
TARGET
UNTRODDEN dendron, dent, donder, done, donned, donut, drone, droned, dune, dunned, dunner, dunno, neon, nerd, neuron, neutron, node, none, nonet, note, noted, noun, nude, nurd, redound, rend, rent, rodent, rone, rotund, round, rounded, rune, runt, tend, tendon, tenon, tenor, tern, tone, toned, toner, tonne, tonner, torn, trend, trodden, tune, tuned, tuner, tunned, turn, turned, under, underdo, undo, undone, unnoted, unto, UNTRODDEN
Across: Lexicon, Eloquent, Prompt, Badger (clue), Goal, Trapeze. Down: Clover, Magical, Accent, Betray, Squalid, Enamel.
AUTHOR and publisher Stephen Hunt is celebrating after one of his books hit the top of the charts in the Amazon bestseller list. It hit the top spot as part of a promotion to tie in with Amazon Prime Day, with three books in the promotion. Tales From Alternate Earths III reached number one in the alternative history category, while the frst two books in the series, Tales From Alternate Earths 1 and 2, were also in the top ten.
The books are published by Inklings Press, a small press where Mr Hunt, a former managing editor of The Tribune, is the editor-in-chief. He is also the lead writer for Diane Phillips & Associates (DPA), and the head of the newly launched DPA Books division. He also writes fction under the pen name Leo McBride.
“The books are anthologies of short stories – including authors from around the world, so the success is really for all of them,” he said. “I have stories in each of the books too, and they were great books to work on. They are full of “what if?” stories which show how history could have taken another turn – sometimes a very diferent turn indeed.
“Promoting the third book again was perhaps a bit of a leap – it came out in 2021, in that strange, post-COVID world, and fve years on, how much love would it receive? Seeing it go to number one is fantastic. There are some really great writers in there – legends in the feld and legends of the future, and great company to be in.”
DPA president Diane Phillips said: “We are so excited and proud to have a number one best-selling author on the DPA team. Kudos to Stephen Hunt whose book Tales from Alternative Earths 3 hit #1 on Amazon in the Alternative History category this week – and during Amazon Prime Days when more eyes than ever are on the choices.”
She added: “Stephen, who writes under a pseudonym, is an author and publisher with 14 nail-biting books. We are proud to call him part of the incredible talent that makes up the team at DPA – graphic designers, digital asset managers, event planners, community campaign organisers, photo and video experts and, of course, powerful writers like Stephen. Way to go, Stephen, keep the brilliant juices fowing and the fngers on the keyboard fying. We couldn’t be prouder.”
Mr Hunt said he hopes there will be a lot more to come. “Inklings Press is very much a team efort –thanks very much to the eforts of fellow authors at the press Ricardo Victoria in Mexico, Rob Edwards in Finland, and Brent A Harris in the US. We had been on a hiatus at Inklings Press while life had been very busy – but we have just set in motion plans for a new anthology. Details to be announced – but we will be calling for submissions for writers in the near future.”
For more details of future projects, visit www.inklingspress.com.
AUTHOR and publisher
Stephen Hunt with Amazon bestseller Tales From Alternate Earths III
features
Radio House partners with Baha Bar and The Perfume Bar
for extravagant father’s day
LISTENERS across New Providence and the Family Islands were treated to an unforgettable Father’s Day weekend as Radio House teamed up with premier corporate partners to shower local dads with luxury gifts and elite dining experiences.
The multi-station campaign spanned all four major broadcasting properties under the Radio House umbrella: 100 JAMZ, Y98 FM, JOY 101.9 FM, and KISS FM.
To activate nationwide listener engagement, each station hosted its fagship "Best Dad Look-Alike Contest" on social media, inviting children to upload side-by-side photos showcasing their striking family resemblance.
The interactive campaigns generated massive digital engagement, culminating in grand prize announcements ahead of the holiday weekend. The ofcial station winners include:
EACH grand prize winner was awarded an exclusive, custom-curated luxury gift basket loaded with premium designer fragrances, courtesy of a generous headline sponsorship from The Perfume Bar.
The Father's Day activations carried an extra layer of celebration this month, as both Y98 FM and JOY 101.9 FM are currently celebrating their ofcial station anniversaries. To mark the occasion, the network took listener appreciation to the absolute highest tier.
Radio House partnered with Baha Mar to give away premium, all-inclusive packages to the highly sought-after Katsuya Geisha Father’s Day Brunch. Lucky winners from Y98 FM and JOY 101.9 FM were awarded pairs of passesto treat their fathers to a spectacular, world-class culinary experience this past Sunday at the luxury resort.
"At Radio House, our guiding policy has always been to ensure our listener giveaways are of the absolute highest, top-tier status," said Noel “Reality” Sands, Marketing & Promotions Director at Radio House.
"This Father’s Day, we wanted to go all out. By partnering with premium brands like Baha Mar and The Perfume Bar, we were able to truly bless our community, honour the legacy of local fathers, and give back to the listeners who have kept us at the top of the ratings dials for decades."
The promotions division confrms that this holiday block serves as the ofcial launchpad for a heavy calendar of major mid-summer campaigns, including the upcoming Y98 and JOY FM "Praise Fest" anniversary events, and the return of the high-cash 100 JAMZ Secret Sound Jackpot in July.
For more information on upcoming station promotions, follow 100 JAMZ, Y98, KISS FM, and JOY 101.9 FM on their ofcial social media platforms.
Mysty Capron
Ti ni Adderley
Michaela Munnings
Grace Smith
