YOUNG LADIES BECOMING QUEENS
FIVE beautiful young ladies recently graduated as Queens of the Esther Court at a special awards tea party.
The Esther Court is a Bible-based, free empowerment programme for girls aged ten and older which teaches them the importance of selfworth and commanding their own destiny.
The programme’s aim is to equip participants with the tools needed to make wise and confident decisions.
The Esther Court programme covers a range of topics such as: learning about its namesake, the Bible’s Queen Esther; self-awareness; how to dress like a lady; communication and behavioral skills and table manners.
After completing a minimum of four sessions, the programme concludes with an awards and crowning ceremony, held in the form of a high tea party.
This celebration gives the young ladies the opportunity to practice all they have learned during the programme.
It was initially founded in 2021 by Valarina Taylor-Rolle. However, due to the pandemic, there was a graduation but no high tea party.
In September 2024, the Esther Court celebrated 15 graduates at the firstofficialawardsatTheNewOasis of Love Kingdom Ministries.
Most recently, regular meetings were held every Saturday in July 2025.
To culminate the latest session, the five young ladies - Louise Miller, Brittany Huyler, Cynthia Johnson, Megan Sherman and Nylia Philippeenjoyedaroyalfeastincelebrationof their achievements.
The three-course meal was prepared and served by Apostle Dr Utah Taylor-Rolle, who serves as the Mordecai for the Esther Court, and Taylormade Catering.
Guests were entertained by Kristin Thompson, the current Mr University of the Bahamas, along with a former graduate and Queen of the Esther Court, Sierra Leone Taylor-Rolle.
The programme’s founder and president, Valarina Taylor-Rolle, gave the keynote address.
She encouraged the ladies to know their worth and command their own destinies.
From left, Louise Miller, Brittany Huyler, Nylia Philippe , Megan Sherman and Cynthia Johnson.
Moviemaker’s dream comes true
By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
AFTER years of perseverance, delays, and creative transformation, Deon Gibson’s film The Pages of My Heart is set to debut on Amazon Prime Video later this month.
This is a dream come true for the Bahamian filmmaker, currently based in Florida, who has spent the past four years pushing for this moment.
The project tested all of his strength and faith. It was delayed by a storm of challenges, including a lack of funding, a change of cinematographers and a literal hurricane.
“There were so many moments I thought it wouldn’t happen,” he admitted. “We had to stop, recut, find new people… But even when things got delayed, I believed in what we were building. I want other filmmakers, especially Caribbean ones, to know that your beginning doesn’t have to be perfect,” he said. “Your story can still grow. You just have to start and stay with it.”
Originally released in the festival circuit in 2023, The Pages of My Heart won Best Supporting Actress at the Tampa Bay Underground Film Festival, and later earned Best Feature Film, Best Actress, and Best Director at the Sunshine City Film Festival.
The movie is about a young actress named Aaliyah stuck in St Petersburg, Florida, who dreams of a career as vibrant as the beaches. Her local auditions and lackluster love life leave her feeling trapped. Then she meets Aubrey, a captivating journalist and poet. Their whirlwind romance seems too good to be true. But secrets and tragedy shatter Aaliyah’s world, forcing her to confront the risks and rewards of chasing her dreams.
Camille of Casting Call Bahamas to help cast authentic Caribbean faces.
“We could’ve hired crew in Florida,” Deon said, “but I wanted this to reflect the richness of Bahamian creativity. This was a chance to showcase homegrown talent on a global stage.”
One of those talents is JaQuay “Dasquai” Adderley, the film’s executive producer.
He said the opportunityto co-produce and act in a film headed to Amazon Prime Video represents a creative and cultural milestone.
“Something that once felt completely out of reach is now standing right in front of me,” he said. “Just finishing a film is worth celebrating. But seeing it go to Amazon? That’s massive — not just for me, but for Bahamian creatives everywhere
He encouraged Bahamians to seize the opportunity because they don’t know what may lie ahead.
city and the talent we have here which often gets overlooked compared to markets like LA, New York, or Atlanta,” she said. “This film is incredibly special to me because I relate to my character, Aaliyah, in many ways. Winning an award for a role I connect with on such a deep level is both humbling and validating. I hope this film inspires people to step outside of their comfort zones and never give up on their dreams or on love.”
With The Pages of My Heart ready to reach global audiences, Gibson is already looking ahead. His next goal? To shoot the third installment of the series in The Bahamas — and he’s inviting more Caribbean creatives to get involved.
“We’ve already done so much with limited resources,” Deon said. “But I’m looking forward to what happens when we take it home — and go even bigger.”
The film was shot across the Tampa Bay area, with deep Bahamian roots in casting, costuming, and production.
Deon brought in Kache Knowles of I Is A Bahamian Bey for costume design and Earlene
“Take the chance even if you’re afraid, he said. “Sometimes your ‘yes’ will lead to something bigger than you imagined.”
Lead actress Geneva Maccarone (who plays Aaliyah) was also proud to take part in the project.
“As a Tampa native, I’m very proud that this film was shot locally, showcasing our beautiful
He is now accepting submissions from actors, stylists, musicians, and other creatives interested in working on future productions. Fans and professionals alike are encouraged to follow his official website and Instagram for updates.
The Pages of My Heart premieres on Amazon Prime on August 22.
Charlie Bahama
A familiar face on the Bahamas entertainment scene, Charlie Bahama has met famous names both local and international - and has a host of stories to tell. He talked to CARA HUNT about what is in store as the latest season of his TV show prepares to debut.
FOR more than 30 years, Charlie Bahama has been the voice of Bahamian culture and entertainment not just here but around the world.
And this week, he is set to tell new stories when the latest season of the Charlie Bahama show debuts on Cable Bahamas.
Charlie Bahama started his career in film and television more than 30 years ago. He was the creator and host of Electric Airwhich was the first independently produced television show in The Bahamas.
The long-running show was a hit, featuring a magical blend of both Bahamian music, culture and musicians and the international names making headlines at the same time.
CHARLIE BAHAMA, and, below, pictured with Morgan Freeman and Sir Sidney Poitier.
Additionally, he directed a variety of music videos for the Bahamas National Youth Choir and collaborated with artists such as Lenny Kravitz, Josh Stone and Quest Love.
Charlie also directed the film Pigs of Paradise. Thefilm,whichfeaturedastronautScottKelly,who once declared The Bahamas “the most beautiful place from space”, told the story of the swimming pigs - how they arrived on Exuma, and how they learnt to swim.
The film helped spark the worldwide frenzied interest in the swimming pigs.
Charlie served as the producer/director along with executive producers Fred Munnings and Nadir Hasan for See How The Main Sail Sets. The documentary told the history of the National Family Island Regatta and chronicled the legacy of sailing and boatbuilding in The Bahamas.
He was also one of the first Bahamians to host a
Main photo: Dante Carrer/ Tribune Staff
CHARLIE BAHAMA, whoseshowreturnstoday.
show on an international broadcast network, the Caribbean Satellite Network (CSN), that aired in over 35 millions homes around the world.
Charlie started The Charlie Bahama Show back in 2020. The first two years had two seasons and the last few years had three seasons.
‘So this is lucky 13,” he said.
The onslaught of social media has allowed him to reach a worldwide
this weekend in history
August 8
1974 - Faced with the near-certain prospect of impeachment for his role in the Watergate scandal, US President Richard M Nixon announced his resignation and was succeeded by Gerald Ford the following day.
audience, in ways he could only dream about when he first started producing Electric Air all those years ago.
Each show debuts on Friday night, at 8pm on Cable Bahamas, and then repeats on Saturdays and Mondays and is eventually posted on Charlie’s YouTube channel.
This allows him to expand and add things that other wise would
1992 - The US men’s Olympic basketball team—which had been dubbed the “Dream Team” because of an all-star roster of NBA players that included Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird—easily defeated Croatia to win the gold medal at the Barcelona Games.
August 9
1942 - After the arrests of Mahatma Gandhi and dozens of other leaders of the Congress Party by British authorities, Aruna Asaf Ali raised the Indian flag in Bombay, defying
have had to be cut on the half hour TV show as well as show behind the scenes footage.
“Now people can see the shows around the world… so I have been able to expose The Bahamas and Bahamians all over the world. I have met random strangers who recognised me from the show.”
One American couple discovered the show when they were watching
British orders and rallying supporters. Her action marked the definitive beginning of the Quit India Movement.
1969 - American actress Sharon Tate and four others were murdered by followers of Charles Manson, leader of a communal religious cult known as the “Family.”
August 10
1914 - France declared war on Austria-Hungary in World War I. 1793 - The Louvre opened in Paris, and it later became the most-visited museum in the world.
YouTube videos researching Carribbean destinations for a potential second home.
Charlie’s on-air tours of the Family Islands helped cement in the minds that is in fact better in The Bahamas.
So just how has Charlie managed to remain relevant and fresh with his content?
Because he has done this for so many years and has interviewed so many cultural icons, he can bring that nostalgia to the show.
For instance, he says that he was able to rerun interviews from the past with people who are making headlines now in the future.
‘I had interviews I had done with people like Diddy and so when his sentencing came up, we reran that interview or Aliyah on her birthday, when OJ Simpson died and most recently when Malcolm-Jamal Warner passed away, we were able to share that footage.”
He said that he then combines that with the most relevant happenings both here and abroad.
“For instance, I will blend KB and Pat Rahming, Das Quay and Sawyer Boy.”
Keeping things fun and relevant will also be successful, he added.
Photo: Dante Carrer/TribuneStaff
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
Answers
V E O U C N R E D
O U C
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 15; very good 22; excellent 29 (or more). Solution next Saturday.
TArGeT oBTAINING agin atoning baiting bang bigot bingo biting boating bong boning gain gait giant gnat goat gonna ingot ngaio noting OBTAINING tang tanga tango tigon ting toga tong toning
Yesterday’s Kakuro Answer
Yesterday’s Sudoku Answer
ART GALLERY FACES: NOWÉ HARRIS-SMITH
By BLAKE BELCHER COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
AT THE centre of our summer camp is education officer Nowé Harris-Smith — the person making sure everything runs as smoothly as possible, even when it’s a little chaotic.
July is one of the busiest months at the museum. We’re always welcoming visitors, but now we’ve also got 100 campers in the mix learning about Bahamian art, being inquisitive, and just having fun across the galleries.
Camp is a fullteam effort, and no department is spared. But Nowé is the one holding it all together. She joined the NAGB in 2023 after teaching junior high art for several years, and she brings that experience to everything she does here.
their words, “invites viewers to see the islands through the eyes of those who wander them freely”, with works that honour “the wild, resilient spirit of Bahamian life”.
If you know Nowé, you’ve probably seen her roaming around the museum or the neighbourhood streets with her camera. She takes a poetic, documentary-style approach, observing the quiet, in-between moments around her: a dried coconut, someone cleaning fish on a boat, an abandoned truck in perfect light. For this show, she leaned into the natural world, capturing macro-like shots of a lone bee on flora and a newly hatched chick.
“What drew me to the show is that part of the proceeds goes to the Bahamas Humane Society,” she said. “I volunteer with the dog walking programme on Saturdays.”
The camp programme is all about introducing kids and teens ages five to 17 to Bahamian art, while helping them tap into skills that often get overlooked in the classroom — like curiosity, experimentation, and creative risk.
She’s also a practicing artist — a photographer, illustrator, painter, explorer, you name it. And her latest photographs are now on view in a group show at the D’Aguilar Art Foundation called For Those Who Roam, which opened yesterday (August 7). The exhibition, in
It’s a clear way her art and work at the NAGB reflect what she cares most about.
We’ve come to expect great things from Nowé, and we’re always proud to shout them out. You can also catch her influence in our annual Summer Camp Exhibition, which opens today, featuring work by the campers she guided and supported throughout camp.
The NAGB is open six days a week and free for Bahamians and residents every Sunday. Come see what’s on view.
REACH to the Sky, above, by Nowe Harris-Smith, and, right, Bee (both images 2025).
Making nature wearable
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
JADA Adriel’s journey into jewellery making began long before she ever set foot in a professional design studio. Long before her BFA in jewellery and metals from the Savannah College of Art and Design, long before her work was featured at local craft markets and pop ups, Jada was just an eight-year-old in primary school, stringing beads and falling in love with the art form that would shape her future.
“My journey into jewellery actually began at the age of eight in primary school when I started learning basic beading techniques from a teacher that would later become one of my first mentors,” Jada told Tribune Weekend. “I had always enjoyed creating whether that was drawing, painting, or creating more three dimensional work. So I was drawn to jewellery making because of the intricacy of it, along with it basically being a wearable piece of art.”
That love for intricacy and the freedom to create tangible, wearable beauty evolved into a style all her own. Bold and grounded in simplicity, Jada’s pieces are as refined as they are rooted, using natural elements as both medium and muse.
“I would probably describe the style of my pieces as simplistic, but also bold with a heavy reliance on the natural beauty of its components. When wearing any of my pieces, I would hope that the wearer would feel effortlessly elegant while still making a statement.”
For Jada, materials are never just materials. They are treasures. Her pieces incorporate elements like conch shells, seeds, and pearls, materials she finds organically and uses with intention.
“When it comes to materials, I primarily like to use shells, more often than not, conch shells, and sometimes various seeds that I can find, like poinciana, tamarind, and nicker seeds. I also have a fascination with pearls as well, so I find myself using them in quite a number of my collections.”
Her techniques are as thoughtful as her choice of materials. The jewellery maker said she gravitates towards them mainly because of the shapes and also the various finishes that can be applied.
In terms of techniques, Jada said she loves to crochet, but with wire in this case, and she has recently found herself enjoying working with clay as well for her latest collection:
The Bahamia Jewels.
While some artists begin with a sketch or a grand idea, Jada often begins with the material itself.
“Oftentimes I find myself looking at the material first then deciding what technique or process would work best to really
show off the beauty of what I am using,” she said. “I draw a lot of inspiration from nature. I have become quite captivated by plant life specifically from how things grow down to how they give back to our environment.”
Nature not only inspires her designs but anchors her creative process in intention and mindfulness. This was especially true during one of her most formative design moments, her senior year collection at SCAD.
“I think the most meaningful and memorable pieces that I have ever made was actually when I was tasked with designing a collection for my senior year in college,” she recalled. “I had ultimately decided to create a collection that showcased both techniques and materials that I had learned throughout the years while at home in Nassau and also those that I had tapped into throughout my four-year programme. I decided to use sterling and fine silver as my base and conch shells as the focus.”
This senior collection was not just a culmination of skills but also a turning point in respect for craftsmanship. After creating those pieces, Jada said she had a newly found respect for those artisans that do carving or lapidary work because of the challenge.
As she moved from student to entrepreneur, the transition came with its own lessons, especially when it came to running a creative business. One of the biggest lessons she has learnt is how to be patient with herself.
“Whether that be with learning a new technique or trying to keep tabs on everything over on the business side of things. Patience is definitely key to holding it all together.”
Through local craft markets like Solomon’s Craft Market which she recently participated in Jada has found more than customers. She has found a community. “By participating in various craft markets and pop up opportunities such as the Solomon’s Craft Market I have been able to meet new people and network with other creatives and new customers alike,” she said. “It has given me a chance to even challenge myself when it comes to the way I think and even produce my work after enlightening conversations with other artisans and entrepreneurs.”
For aspiring jewelry designers hoping to turn their passion into a profession, Jada offers heartfelt advice that prioritizes both creativity and authenticity. “Make time for both business and for fun within your work,” she said. “Yes create work for you to sell for others to enjoy, but also create just to create sometimes. Find time to simply enjoy what it is that you do.”
And more than anything, she encourages other creatives to dig deep and stay true. “Find your own style and unique way of doing things.”
ONE BLOOD BRINGS THE VIBES
MORE than 2,000 music lovers gathered at Clifford Park recently for OneBlood27:SummerEdition, a celebration of reggae culture, community, and unforgettablevibes.
Produced by Concepts Events, this year’s event was headlined by reggae icon Junior Reid, whose performance included fan favorites such as “One Blood” and “This Is Why I’m Hot.” A true showman, Reid took things to another level mid-set, dropping to the stage for a full round of push-ups.
The DJ roster included Selector Ty, Selector 3D, Supa Mario, and Jason PantonofDubwiseMiami.
“The energy this year was incredible,” said Leah Davis, founder of Concepts Events. “We’re thankful to the artists, DJs, sponsors, andouramazingcommunity for continuing to show up and make One Blood what it is — a true celebration of reggaeandtogetherness.”
The next One Blood is on Saturday,December20.
Abilities Unlimited ready for Summer Fund Fest
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
IN AN effort to restore vital training programmes and raise funds for much-needed renovations, Abilities Unlimited is preparing to host its first-ever Summer Fund Fest tomorrow.
The all-day event will be held at the organisation’s Dolphin Drive headquarters and promises to be a lively, family-friendly celebration with a meaningful purpose.
From a Kiddie’s Corner complete with water slides to bingo, a raffle, and performances including a Junkanoo rush-out, the event will offer a full day of entertainment and community engagement. Attendees can look forward to a wide range of food and drink vendors, along with opportunities to support a cause that has impacted lives for over five decades.
The inspiration behind the event, according to Abilities Unlimited board member Toneika Russell, came from an urgent need to revitalise the organisation’s vocational training programmes. These programmes are designed to equip individuals with disabilities with skills necessary to join the general workforce.
“There is a great need to revitalise the vital training programmes that empower individuals with disabilities in an effort to gain the skills necessary to join the general workforce,” said Toneika. “Additionally, as the buildings for Abilities Unlimited have been around for 51 years, it requires renovation work to be performed and this fundraising event will go towards those costs.”
Funds raised from the Summer Fund Fest will go directly toward the refurbishment of the existing facility and the relaunch of training programmes, which are scheduled to commence in September. These include a stipend for individuals enrolled in the programme, rewarding them for their participation and the work performed.
Abilities Unlimited has long operated as a sheltered workshop, offering training and employment opportunities for adults with mental and physical disabilities, as well as for the deaf and mute. Its core mission is to equip individuals with the skills they need to start their own businesses or secure meaningful employment elsewhere.
“As we graduate trainees and help them achieve
independence, we welcome new participants, ensuring a continuous cycle of empowerment and growth,” said Toneika.
Under new leadership, the organisation is also preparing to roll out a robust lineup of new vocational classes. These include jewelry making, soap making, beginner sewing, ceramics, plumbing basics, finished carpentry, upholstery, basic shoe repair, reading and writing, and preparation for the learner’s permit.
Abilities Unlimited is actively seeking qualified vocational training instructors who can contribute
their time and expertise to make these programmes possible.
The Summer Fund Fest is more than just a fundraiser. It is a reintroduction of Abilities Unlimited to the wider public and a rallying call to support the inclusion of people with disabilities in every aspect of society. Russell believes that true inclusion begins with empowerment and that support from the public is essential to the organisation’s success.
“The message we would like to send to the Bahamian public aboutsupportingpersonswithdisabilities is that the ‘disabled’ are still ‘able’, they just need our help to ‘enable’ them. They should be wholeheartedly accepted into our society as it only takes one incident for any one of us to go from ‘enabled’ to ‘disabled’,” she told Tribune Weekend.
For those who cannot attend the event, donations can be made via the organisation’s website or by visiting the office in person. Volunteers are also welcome, both at the Summer Fund Fest and at future events.
The impact of Abilities Unlimited’s work is already evident. Russell shared a recent success story from a former electrician tutor who once taught at the facility.
“He stated that he taught electric work and one of the individuals in the class was hired by one of the local electric stores in Nassau.
“That story and similar success stories is why our board of directors and other volunteers work tirelessly to revive Abilities Unlimited once again.”
Looking ahead, the organisation envisions building a full-fledged community centre for individuals with disabilities. The goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where participants can gain life skills, form social bonds, and achieve true independence.
“The long-term vision for Abilities Unlimited is to build a community centre for individuals with disabilities, continuing on the plans of the founder, David L Smalley,” Russell said. “The intention is to develop a community on the grounds of Abilities Unlimited where it serves as a hub for individuals to connect with peers and build social networks.”
For more information about Abilities Unlimited, contact 242-820-8200.
Tag! Kids are doing it in style
MOVE over, designer brands — there’s a new label in town. Ten-year-old Caerwyn Turnquest has launched ‘Tag, You’re It!’, a youth-led self-worth branding company.
For Caerwyn, Tag, You’re It! isn’t just a business — it’s a belief system. Raised to value people over possessions, he was never encouraged to chase trends or flashy logos. Instead, he was taught everyone is equal, and real worth comes not from what you consume — but from what you create.
Since age four, Caerwyn has proudly worn his own personalised leather patches — a hand-stamped tag featuring his name and three symbols: A crown, to lead with integrity. A heart, to spread kindness and love. A cross, to remind him that God is always with him.
Caerwyn chose to turn that patch into a business.
Backed by mentors, Tag, You’re It! was born.
Joining Caerwyn are fellow young entrepreneurs Daniel Johnson-Mensuah and Anwar Rolle Jr, who are launching junior franchise-style outposts in the east and central districts of New Providence.
Anwar joined the project thanks to his sister. His older sibling, Aalysha, wrote a teen motivational book, The Worth of It, which often sparked meaningful conversations around their family dinner table. Anwar was inspired by those conversations.
Daniel was drawn to the project the moment he heard about it. Inspired by the mission and message, he was eager to contribute and become part of something meaningful.
This challenge invites students to start the school year by checking in with who they are — not what they wear. Instead of measuring value by price tags or peer groups, Tag, You’re It! encourages kids to reflect on their strengths, values, and goals — and wear those proudly.
Designed by kids, for kids, the brand pushes back against cliques.
Rather than flexing with borrowed brand names, students are invited to rock something far more original: their own. Each Tag, You’re It! label is hand-stamped with the wearer’s name and symbols that reflect their identity — then clipped onto belt loops, backpacks, or uniforms like a badge of honour.
“Why wear someone else’s name,” Caerwyn asks, “when you can wear yours and make it iconic?”
From leather branding and stamping to graphic design, sales pitch, customer service, pricing, and profit the young team is learning real life business operations.
The first official Tag, You’re It! location operates from Caerwyn Turnquest’s west Nassau location, where he works as a self-proclaimed “Patchologist”. Daniel and Anwar’s sites will launch soon, expanding the brand across the island.
For more information, contact 558-1512.
FROM left, Anwar Rolle, Caerwyn Turnquest and Daniel Johnson-Mensuah.
Murphy, Davidson and The Pickup
NEW Orleans legend Big Freedia returning with a new gospel album and the acting trio of Eddie Murphy, Pete Davidson and Keke Palmer teaming up for the armored truck action comedy “The Pickup” are some of the new television, films, and music headed to a device near you.
Also among the streaming offerings worth your time, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: The animated “King of the Hill” returns after a 15-year pause, the first half of season two of “Wednesday” lands on Netflix appropriately on Wednesday and the “Welcome to Wrexham” spinoff “NECAXA” premieres with Eva Longoria.
New movies
• Eddie Murphy and Pete Davidson are armored truck drivers coerced into a heist in the action comedy “The Pickup.” Keke Palmer plays the criminal mastermind who disrupts their routine drive. Eva Longoria, Andrew Dice Clay and Marshawn Lynch co-star in the movie, which made headlines during its Atlanta production after several crew members were injured in a collision during the shoot. It streams on Prime Video.
• Filmmaker Osgood Perkins’ latest horror “The Monkey” is streaming on Hulu. The follow-up to his breakout hit “Longlegs” was inspired by a 1980 Stephen King story. Theo James plays twin brothers whose lives turn to chaos when a demonic toy monkey stars causes deaths around them. In her review for The Associated Press, Jocelyn Noveck wrote that it felt “uneven”. She added that, “surely there will be an audience for the creatively rendered gore. The rest of us may feel left with a witty, visually arresting, highly inventive quasi-mess on our hands”.
• If you haven’t had enough Pedro Pascal this year, he’s a key part of Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s “Freaky Tales,” streaming on HBO Max on Friday. The anthology action comedy follows four interconnected stories in Oakland, California, in 1987. Before the film’s Sundance debut in 2024, Boden told the AP that “It’s a movie lover’s movie … It has one foot in reality and then one foot just launches off into fantasy.”
What to stream
— AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr
New music
• New Orleans legend Big Freedia, the queen of bounce music (and a notable Beyoncé collaborator, lest anyone forget the zeitgeist-shifting “Renaissance” ), is back with a new album. But “Pressing Onward” is new territory for the artist. It’s her first gospel album and it still manages to induce as much booty-shaking as ever before. The difference this time is that her vibrant sonic celebrations are all about faith. Start with “Holy Shuffle” featuring Billy Porter or “Sunday Best” with Tamar Braxton. It’s good for the soul.
• For several years now, one of the most exciting names in heavy rock music has been BABYMETAL, Japanese kawaii metal trio that marries pop idol culture with chugging riffs, full-throated vocals, blast beats and bilingual lyricism. They’ve inspired fanfare across the globe, and on Friday, they’ll release their fifth studio album, “METAL FORTH.” It features guest spots from Poppy, Spiritbox and Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello. Clearly, it’s not for the faint of heart.
— AP Music Writer Maria Sherman
New series
• Would you believe it’s been 15 years since “King of the Hill” went
off the air? The animated comedy returns with a new 14th season on its new home, Hulu. All ten episodes drop at once for bingeing. The show picks up give or take 10 years after the events of season 13. Hank and Peggyarebothretiredafterreturning from Saudi Arabia, where Hank had been working. Their kids are now grown. Adjusting to life as retirees and in the current political climate in America presents challenges for the couple.
• Another long wait came to an end Wednesday when the first half of season two of “Wednesday” premiered on Netflix. The show follows teen Wednesday Addams (played by Jenna Ortega) as she studies at a boarding school called Nevermore Academy. Ortega’s deliciously deadpan delivery earned her an Emmy Award nomination for her work on Season 1. Catherine Zeta-Jones and Luis Guzmán play Wednesday’s parents, Morticia and Gomez.
• Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne proved that yes, men and women can be just friends in the first season of their Apple TV+ comedy called “Platonic. “ The codependent buddies, Will and Sylvia are back with a new season. We meet them again and Will is engaged to his boss — who doesn’t like Sylvia. And Sylvia is planning their wedding. Will is struggling to open his bar and Sylvia’s event-planning business has yet to take off.
• More than two years ago, AMC Networks pulled the plug on its sci-fi comedy “Demascus “ as a cost-cutting measure even though production was already completed. Tubi has rescued the show, starring Okieriete Onaodowan, and it premieres Thursday. It’s about a man who begins using an experimental technology that allows him to experience different timelines of his life.
• The “Outlander” prequel “Outlander: Blood of my Blood” debuts on Starz today. It’s about the parents of Claire and Jamie from “Outlander.” Unlike its predecessor, “Blood of my Blood” does not have source material by author Diana Gabaldon but its showrunner Matthew B Roberts also works on “Outlander” and is very familiar with the lore. The cast is already filming a second season. It streams on the Starz App or through platforms like Hulu and Prime Video.
• The “Welcome to Wrexham” spinoff “NECAXA” premieres Thursday on FX on Hulu. After their success owning the Welsh soccer team Wrexham AFC, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney join Eva Longoria and buy a stake in a Mexican club, NECAXA, “It’s more than winning games. We’re gonna win hearts. We’re gonna inspire pride. We’re gonna empower the team,” Longoria says in the trailer.
— Alicia Rancilio
What a crying shame
YOU have probably already heard about it. The papers carried the story yesterday; our Tribune featureditbold and visible. It was on social media, (though, alas, some of the actual details were not totally accurate). The oldest charity in The Bahamas was broken into, damage to doors and windows, interior mess, things were scattered.
The Bahamas Humane Society was targeted by two young men (easy enough to see that in all the camera videos), they jumped over walls and walked through dog paddocks with an alarming air of familiarity, brazen, brash and callous, they forced open a outside door and broke into a locked inside office and then broke into a padlocked and large filing cabinet knowing exactly where to go.
Yes, they stole some money, it wasn’t thousands and thousands of dollars as some have claimed. It was money from the long weekend destined to be disbursed on Wednesday to staff and merchants alike.
In our country today one is caught up in a situation of fear and doubt. How safe is it to send your staff to a bank to make a deposit. Not long ago a gentleman was murdered in cold blood whilst making a cash deposit in broad daylight in Palmdale. Do we send good honest people out to risk being mowed down for a handful of cash?
We have been criticised for having a fistful of dollars on the premises, in fact, many people on the Nassau Guardian social media page seem far more cross at us than cross at the robbers. “What do you expect if you have any money at all” was the tone. It is as if the person robbed had it coming because they had some cash.
I readily acknowledge that in retrospect we must find another solution, one that will keep our employees safe and out of the range of gunfire as well as fiercely protecting our hard-earned assets. Frankly, I find it distressing that somebody wrote to me on Facebook and in essence said that
responsibility must be shared between the perpetrator and the organisation robbed. Really? what an extraordinary comment. Stealing is wrong, there are no extenuating circumstances, and I find it bizarre at the very best that you can lay the blame at the feet of the wronged. Perhaps that attitude is a sign of the times.
However out of evil springs good, this morning I received a phone call from Sandy Sands, senior vicepresidentatBahaMarresort,sayingthatBaha Mar would like to present the Bahamas Humane Society with $7,500.00 and provide aid to make the necessary repairs. It was a breath of fresh air and really put a smile on my face… such kindness, so greatly appreciated when we were all feeling pretty depressed and despondent.
I must also thank all the wonderful friends of the BHS who have messaged and called to commiserate, and to those who have sent in donations, you are all stars, and I cannot begin to tell you how grateful we all are.
The press has been amazingly supportive too. Both national newspapers have given us front page coverage, and we have been on every national
radio and TV station. The kindness and compassion shown to us by the press has been overwhelming. Now we come to the most disturbing topic, what is wrong with a person (or in this case, two persons) who steal from a charity, what kind of pathetic excuse for humanity are they?
I cannot believe that anybody feels it is okay to steal money from people who have given of their personal funds, to help others conduct essential services to our country. Let us not forget the BHS actually serves the people of The Bahamas in so many essential ways. I have looked at those video tapes several times, and I see two rather slight, very young males. They look as if they know exactly what they are up to, and that makes me doubly sad, please don’t tell me that these boys were familiar with the shelter. We come back to the age-old discussion as to whether the young of today are being brought up or are they merely being allowed to grow up, such a huge difference. Stealing was a big deal when I was young, now I have a learned man telling me that responsibility should be shared between he who steals and he who has been stolen from. Shame on you. That is like people saying if a girl wears a bikini she deserves to be accosted and/ or worse.
FROM left, Sandy Sands, Kim Aranha, Percy Grant, and Fiona Frazier pictured as a cheque for $7,500 is donated by Baha Mar following the burglary that took place at the Bahamas Humane Society.
We all know what is right, right is Baha Mar leaping up to the bat to help us. Wrong is two adolescent males breaking in and stealing from the oldest charity in The Bahamas.
This will not get us down.
FROM
Mural magic at The Retreat
THE Bahamas National Trust (BNT) has unveiled four new murals at the Woodland Road exit of its base at The Retreat.
Designed by local artist Trevor Tucker, the murals depict birds and plants found within The Retreat.
This project brought together BNT constituents, Governor General’s Youth Award (GGYA) volunteers, and employees from EV Motors.
Mr Tucker, a long-time BNT collaborator and art teacher at St Augustine’s College, provided guidance to the volunteers. His previous work with the BNT includes a similar mural at Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park.
“It was a great experience to work on the murals and see them come to life,” said GGYA volunteer Rovette Murphy. “I am very proud to have worked on this project and to share it with my family and friends.”
Derencia Rolle-Davis, of the EV Motors Marketing team, added: “I thoroughly enjoyed getting out of the office and working on this project. It was great that they had the murals set up in the garden so that we were able to enjoy the beauty of The Retreat while we worked.”
The BNT thanked Sherwin-Williams Paint Bahamas for providing the paint.
Reto Giovanoli, of Sherwin-Williams Paints, said: “Sherwin-Williams Paints is proud to support the Bahamas National Trust and its mission to preserve the natural beauty and heritage of our islands. Through our support of the mural project, we were honoured to help provide young artists with a creative outlet to express their love for the environment and deepen their connection to the incredible work of the trust.”
left, Shannon Tucker, Derencia RolleDavis, Cassandra Sweeting, Joy Casildo, Rovette Murphy ,Tristan Tucker, Reto Giovanoli and and Trevor Tucker in front of a white-crowned pigeon mural. Below, Trevor Tucker making some finishing touches.