I!"#NDS
Friday, September 4, 2026
around da
INCORPORATING
GRAND BAHAMA
Inside:
NEW COLLECTION OF ONE-OF-AKIND BAGS see pages 14 & 15
Resilience
RISING
The Ongoing Journey of Recovery and Renewal in Grand Bahama see pages 8 & 9
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Friday, September 4, 2026 around da Islands
around da Islands Friday, September 4, 2026
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contents This WEEK in Around da Islands Bahamian News, Features & Culture
what’s
hot
GRAND BAHAMA NEWS Pg 4 — Jack Hayward Gym still closed as new school year begins
this week
Pg 5 — From farm to your cup with Green Goddess teas Pg 6 — Taino Beach playground falls into disrepair
Welcome...
NEW PROVIDENCE FEATURES Pg 7 — Local and international stars lined up for inaugural John Watling’s Jam
…to Around da Islands, our weekly supplement, free with Friday’s Tribune. This week marks the 7th anniversary of Hurricane Dorian, a catastrophic tropical cyclone which became the most intense on record to strike the Bahamas - regarded as the worst natural disaster in the country's recorded history. Dorian was not an ordinary hurricane. It became a catastrophic Category 5 storm as it approached the northern Bahamas, reaching maximum sustained winds of 185 mph, with gusts exceeding 200 mph. After devastating Abaco, the hurricane crossed onto Grand Bahama and slowed dramatically. With its steering currents collapsing, Dorian crawled across the island and, at times, appeared almost to stop.
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GRAND BAHAMA FEATURES
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For almost 48 hours, Grand Bahama endured the storm’s heavy winds, storm surge and !ooding. The National Hurricane Center recorded storm surge estimates of 18 to 23 feet above normal tide levels, with higher destructive waves.
Pgs 10 & 11 — The Chamberlains of Staniel Cay
BLUE LAGOON FEATURES
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And seven years later, many residents say they are still rebuilding not only their homes and businesses, but themselves. It tested the island’s strengths, exposed its vulnerabilities and altered the lives of thousands. But it did not erase the determination of the people who call the island home. Every week, Around da Islands, having partnered with Grand Bahama 242,highlights news, features and developments from Grand Bahama and the Family Islands, offering a broader national perspective beyond Nassau.
Pg 13 — “The Breakfast Club” arrives at Blue Lagoon
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ABACO FEATURES Pgs 14 & 15 — New collection of one-ofa-kind bags from Hope Town Canvas and artist Samantha For advertising contact:
And don’t forget, this is your supplement too! Send us your story ideas, features and tips – we can’t run then them all, but we’re committed to strong, fair representation from across the islands.
COVER Minister Ginger Moxey
STANIEL CAY FEATURES
Pg 12 — Island Brainwaves
It was an experience that changed the island and its people forever.
So come along for the ride! From all of us here at The Tribune – The People’s Paper.
Pgs 8 & 9 — Remembering Dorian seven years after Cat 5 hurricane became our worst natural disaster
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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
grand bahama
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Friday, September 4, 2026 around da Islands
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
W
ITH public schools across Grand Bahama opening for a new school year, students at Jack Hayward Senior High School will again be without their gymnasiumwhich has been out of commission for nearly a decade. Member of Parliament for Central Grand Bahama and former educator and school administrator Frazette Gibson this week renewed calls for the facility to be repaired and returned to use, pointing in particular to air-conditioning units purchased for the gym that have remained outside the building for more than five years. “I’ve spoken about this in the House of Assembly and engaged the Minister of Education on the need to have this addressed,” Mrs Gibson said. “When we do school repairs, this should have been included in the scope of works so that the school and our athletes can once again have access to the gymnasium.” The condition of Jack Hayward’s gym was also brought into focus during a recent tour of public schools on Grand Bahama by Deputy Prime Minister
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Education Chester Cooper, along with Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey, visited Jack Hayward Senior High School days before school opened for the new year.
Photo: BIS
Jack Hayward Gym still closed as new school year begins
BASKETBALL coach Lionel Morley said the gym floor was removed approximately five years ago for repairs, but the work was never completed.
MEMBER of Parliament for Central Grand Bahama, Frazette Gibson, renewed calls for the Jack Hayward Senior High School Gym to be repaired and returned to use.
AIR conditioning units have been sitting outside the gym for more than four years, and remain outside with no timeline given as to when they will be installed.
Photo: BARBARA WALKIN
and Minister of Education Chester Cooper, approximately two weeks before the start of the new school year. During the tour, Mr Cooper inspected the gymnasium while Principal Melissa Cooper guided him through the facility and provided an update on the work still required in the school. The inspection highlighted several outstanding issues, including plumbing problems affecting the bathrooms, additional work needed in several classrooms, and maintenance requirements in the gymnasium, including a floor for the facility. Mr Cooper assured the school that the Ministry of Education was working to improve conditions at Jack Hayward Senior High and to get the gymnasium back into working condition. Mrs Gibson, in a widely circulated video, said she understands that a suitable gym floor is available in the Western District and suggested that the government explore securing it for installation at Jack Hayward. “We are appealing to the government to do what is right in the interest of our children and this community, and to do it as quickly as possible,” Mrs Gibson said. Frustration over the gym’s condition is also being felt by coaches who say the prolonged closure has placed additional pressure on the limited number of functioning school gyms in Grand Bahama. Basketball coach Lionel Morley said the gym floor was removed approximately five years ago for repairs, but the work was never completed.
Mr Morley said the lack of access to Jack Hayward’s gym has also increased the demands on other school facilities, particularly the gym at St. George’s High School. He pointed to deterioration of the St. George’s gym floor, including visible damage and sections of wood lifting from the surface, which he attributed to the facility carrying a heavier workload. Mr Morley praised the gym at Eight Mile Rock High School, describing it as one of the best school gymnasiums in the country. The facility was recently renovated and is now being used for games, providing another venue for student athletes in the district. Meanwhile for Mrs Gibson, the continued presence of the unused air-conditioning units outside the gym is a visible reminder of how long the community has been waiting. The units were purchased for the facility but, according to Mrs Gibson, have remained outside the gymnasium for years while the building itself remains unavailable for regular use. Coaches, parents and student athletes agree that the question is not whether the facility is needed, but when the long-promised work will finally be completed. Around Da Islands contacted the Ministry of Works seeking an update on whether the ministry will undertake the repairs or whether the work will be assigned to a contractor, as well as when work is expected to begin. No response had been received at the time of publication.
By LEIGH LIGHTBOURN
coming from Local Organics. “I wanted health benefits just like I do with the produce, to be affordable to everybody,” she said. “The future is clean food and clean water.” That philosophy has shaped Local Organics since Dennison established the farm in 2007. The operation uses hydroponic and aquaponic systems to produce crops in an environment where traditional agriculture can be challenging, and has supplied vegetables, herbs, edible flowers and other products to households, restaurants and
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OR Tiffany Dennison, innovation has always been part of growing food in The Bahamas. Now, the owner and lead grower of Local Organics is taking that philosophy from the farm to the teacup with Green Goddess Teas, a line of handcrafted herbal teas produced in Freeport. The teas are a natural extension of Dennison’s longstanding commitment to providing Grand Bahamians with locally produced, healthy food while finding new ways to make those products accessible. “I am always trying to find a way to innovate and grow food, “she told Around da Islands, “organic produce for our people.” The idea for Green Goddess developed from her work at Local Organics, around already familiar ingredients including hibiscus, fever grass and ginger. She also wanted the teas to reflect the same emphasis on health that guides her approach to farming. “There’s so many health benefits,” she said, explaining that she began exploring herbal teas and developing recipes: Hibiscus with Apple and Ginger, Bahama Breeze featuring fever grass, ginger and pineapple, and Cinnamon Rooibos Chai. Rooibos, a naturally caffeine-free South African herbal tea, forms the base of the chai blend, while the other combinations bring together
ingredients associated with traditional herbal teas. For Dennison, Green Goddess Teas is about
more than creating another product. Affordability remains central to the concept, just as it is with the produce
same path. Dennison sees possibilities well beyond a cup of hot tea, including chilled drinks, signature beverages, cocktails and infused teas for local bars, restaurants and tourism businesses. “It’s a little bit of our islands that people can take home with them,” she said. With its tropical ingredients and Bahamian connection, Green Goddess may offer another way for local businesses to incorporate locally produced goods into the visitor experience while giving residents something new to enjoy. For Dennison, the goal is ultimately consistent with the vision that has driven Local Organics from the beginning: grow locally, work together and create more opportunities for Bahamians to benefit from what is produced at home.
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retailers across Grand Bahama. Dennison also sees collaboration as an important part of building a stronger local food system. Her motto, she says, is “Forward, upward, onward, together,” and this wellknown Bahamian motto shapes how she works with other farmers and retailers. “I believe that cooperating with other farmers that are like-minded, like Local Organics, we are 100 per cent pesticide free. Everything is organic.” The approach is already finding its way into her business practices, as Dennison works with other growers to help bring their products to market and looks for ways to create opportunities for people who might otherwise struggle to find them. Green Goddess is intended to follow that
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grand bahama
From Farm to your cup with Green Goddess teas
around da Islands Friday, September 4, 2026
grand bahama
news
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Friday, September 4, 2026 around da Islands
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
their children to use equipment they consider unsafe or keep them away from the playground altogether. City of Freeport Council Chief Councillor Kendal Culmer told Around da Islands the City is in no way responsible for the maintenance of the playground. “The care and maintenance of the playground has been under the
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OR years, the playground at Taino Beach has been a safe and inviting space for families to bring young children to play. Now, according to one local, it has become a source of concern as the swings, slides, and seesaws havebroken and deteriorated. According to the resident, who did not want to be named: “Families frequent the playground with their children, and over the last several months the equipment has deteriorated.” She pointed specifically to broken swings and outdated playground equipment, as well as a notice posted at the facility warning users that they play at their own risk. The sign reads: “Play at your own risk. Lucaya Service Company will not be responsible for any injuries or loss of property while using this facility. For inquiries contact: 350-9016.”
Port for years now,” Mr Culmer said. “CFC has no responsibility.” Around da Islands also contacted the Lucaya Service Company (LUSCO) seeking comment on the condition of the playground, its maintenance responsibilities and the warning posted at the facility.No response had been received as of press time.
BROKEN swings tell the tale of unsafe conditions on the Taino Beach Playground.
Taino Beach playground falls into disrepair The resident questioned the fairness of leaving families to assume the risk when the playground itself appears to be in need of attention. She said the situation is particularly troubling
because the playground is located at Taino Beach, one of Grand Bahama’s popular recreational and gathering spots, where families regularly spend time together. “Parents bring their children to the beach for a day outdoors, while families often hold picnics, birthday celebrations and other gatherings on the lawn near the playground. For many young children, the playground has been part of the attraction.” But, she added, the deteriorating equipment is now making it dangerous for toddlers and other young children
to enjoy what should be one of the simplest pleasures of a family day at the beach. The concern is even more pronounced because the Anuual Goombay Summer Festival is held on Taino Beach and attracts large numbers of residents and visitors. Families often bring young children and traditionally allow them to spend time on the playground while adults enjoy the festivities. With much of the equipment now reportedly broken, worn or outdated, parents are left with an uncomfortable choice: allow
THE SIGN posted by Lucaya Service Company (LUSCO).
NAILS protruding from the seat of the seesaw could cause injury to a young child operating the playground toy.
Bahamian stars in the line-up include Lady E, fresh from the release of her new hit Regatta Time, Judah Tha Lion, Sweet Emily, Patrice Murrell, Vitamin G, and rising stars such as Naira Knox and
Maiden star Steve Harris. John Watling’s Jam puts the spotlight on both local and international performers and aims to be the first in a series of shows at the venue. “This event really came
Islha. The concert on September 12, is in the beautiful surroundings of the Buena Vista Estate that John Watling’s Distillery calls home – tickets include an open bar with all of John Watling’s premium products, Kalik and Sands beer, and other premium spirits so your glass stays as full as the dance floor. The event brings live performances to a new kind of venue for the Bahamian music scene – building on the success of the British Lion concert in April with Iron
from seeing an opportunity to bring great people, great talent and this breath-taking setting together to create something new,” said Paula Welch, Chief Operating Officer at Diane Phillips & Associates. “We have this amazing mix of international and Bahamian artists, the historic backdrop of Buena Vista, and teams that were excited to do something a little different. It creates another stage for these performers to shine, gives audiences a fresh way to experience live music, and
Local and international stars lined up for inaugural John Watling’s Jam
adds something new to The Bahamas’ entertainment landscape. When the energies shine through from all these wonderful souls…that is when the magic happens!” “And of course the open bar certainly adds fairy dust to the magic!.” Event partner Linnea Levy, of Staniel Cay Concierge, sees the Jam as an opportunity to show the best of Bahamian culture. “As someone with deep family roots in Staniel Cay, I see this event as part of a much bigger vision: using curated experiences to celebrate Bahamian culture, support our creatives, and position The Bahamas as a leading destination for music, art, hospitality, and connection. John Watling’s Jam is just the beginning of what I believe is possible,” said Linnea.” Pepin Argamasilla, co-founder and managing partner of John Watling’s Distillery, welcomed the opportunity to host the event. “Partnerships are the heart of what we do here at John Watling’s Distillery – it makes us all stronger when we work together – and this is a great example of that, bringing together the teams at DPA and Staniel Cay Concierge, our team here at the Buena Vista Estate, the vendors who will be there on the night and, more than that, the talented
artists from both near and far who will take to the stage,” said Pepin. Tickets cost $95 for general admission, including the premium open bar and access to the full concert experience, food trucks,local vendors and secure parking at the Department of Public Service at Augusta and Delancy Street. VIP tickets cost $150 and also include an exclusive elevated viewing area with a direct view of the stage, air-conditioned space and VIP parking on-site and at St. John’s Baptist Cathedral and a private VIP open bar. Doors open at 6pm. To book tickets or for more information, visit johnwatlings.com. Guests can also book preferred accommodations at Margaritaville with a group rate available. RAIN POLICY: As an outdoor event, John Watling’s Jam will proceed as planned, weather permitting. Should inclement weather require a change of plans, organisers have contingency arrangements in place, including a designated rain date. If the event is rescheduled and ticket holders are unable to attend on the alternate date, refunds will be made available. Full details and any weather-related updates will be communicated directly to ticket holders and through official event channels.
features
TARS on the stage and stars in the sky – that’s the tantalising promise as top Bahamian and international artists gather for the debut John Watling’s Jam. Performers include international stars Natalie La Rose, famous for her hit Somebody, as well as DJ, singer and dazzling violinist Anaya, who has performed with Lil Yachty and Snoop Dogg, while Sherwood Rahming brings the local flavour to the decks with Goombay House. Dutch multi-platinum singer, songwriter, DJ and dancer Natalie La Rose has been back in the studio recently – and has worked around the world with acts such as Flo Rida and Fifth Harmony, as well as performances including Ellen, the Disney Music Awards, the Latin American Music Awards and The Late, Late Show with James Corden. Esther Anaya has appeared on some of the greatest sporting stages as well as music stages – having been the official DJ for the LA Chargers at the 2023 Super Bowl, and with performances for FIFA as well as MLS side LA Galaxy and with Rihanna and Kanye at the NBA AllStar Game alongside major festivals such as EDC Mexico City and Baja Beach Fest.
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new providence
S
around da Islands Friday, September 4, 2026
Around da Island readers have the chance to win two free tickets for the inaugural John Watling’s Jam.
NATALIE LA ROSE, left, and violinist and DJ Anaya NAIRA Knox
Simply answer this question:
WHAT IS LADY E’S NEW SINGLE CALLED? Send your answer to islands@tribunemedia.net
VITAMIN G
LADY E
PATRICE Murrell
JUDAH Tha Lion
ISLHA
SWEET EMILY
grand bahama
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Friday, September 4, 2026 around da Islands
around da Islands Friday, September 4, 2026
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
years later, there are encouraging signs of recovery. “Some businesses that were here pre-Dorian have been able to rebuild and continue to provide the Grand Bahama community with the services they used to offer before, and in some cases have extended and added additional services to accommodate needs that came about because of Dorian and what happened afterward,” Mr Hepburn said. He said the island has developed a foundation of businesses that have learned to listen more closely to their customers and respond to changing needs. At the same time, Dorian created opportunities for new businesses to emerge. “There have been a number of businesses that came on due to the
S
even years have passed since Hurricane Dorian tore across the northern Bahamas, but on Grand Bahama, the memories have not faded. For many residents, September 2019 is not simply a date on a calendar. It is sounds, sights and memories that remain difficult to revisit. The howl of hurricane-force winds, non-stop rain, rising floodwaters, destroyed homes, businesses toppled and, for too many families, the devastating loss of loved ones. Dorian was not an ordinary hurricane. It became a catastrophic Category 5 storm as it approached the northern Bahamas, reaching maximum sustained winds of 185 mph, with gusts exceeding 200 mph. After devastating Abaco, the hurricane crossed onto Grand Bahama and slowed dramatically. With its steering currents collapsing, Dorian crawled across the island and, at times, appeared almost to stop. For almost 48 hours, Grand Bahama endured the storm’s heavy winds, storm surge and flooding. The National Hurricane Center recorded storm surge estimates of 18 to 23 feet above normal tide levels, with higher destructive waves. It was an experience that changed the island and its people forever. And seven years later, many residents say they are still rebuilding not only their homes and businesses, but themselves. For Vangel Wright, a resident of Ingrave Drive in Lucaya, the storm shattered the confidence she had placed in being prepared. Ms Wright had moved into her home only two years before Dorian. She had invested in hurricane-impact windows and shutters and believed she had done everything necessary to protect the property. She secured the house, stocked up on supplies and prepared to ride out the storm at home. Her decision was based partly on her previous experience with hurricanes. Storms that had affected Grand Bahama in the past had often brought heavy rain and strong winds but not the kind of catastrophic flooding she would later witness. That expectation proved tragically wrong. “Dorian changed all of that.” Ms Wright remembered watching as water rushed toward her home and began rising with frightening speed. Realising that she could not safely remain inside, she called a friend. Fortunately, help arrived before the rising water left her trapped. “I lost everything to the flood,” she told Around da Islands. “It was so bad.” The experience took an emotional toll. Ms Wright said she became depressed and struggled to cope with the magnitude of what she had lost. But amid the
The ease of doing business, he said, still needs attention. Businesses need timely responses from government agencies, faster processing and greater certainty when applying for approvals and licenses. For Grand Bahama, he said, improved cargo and transportation services are also critical. Expanding cargo services through both the Freeport Harbour and the airport, he said, would help ensure that goods reach the island more efficiently and in the quantities needed. But perhaps just as important is having a long-term plan that businesses can rely on. Dorian did more than destroy property. It exposed vulnerabilities and forced Grand Bahama to reconsider how it prepares, rebuilds and does business. Mr Hepburn believes the island must
companies not simply because customers are local, but because they receive a standard of service that can stand alongside what is offered anywhere else. For him, rebuilding Grand Bahama is ultimately about more than economics. It is also about people, faith and responsibility. “We have to put our trust in God from a spiritual perspective,” he said, while emphasising that businesses must also understand consumer concerns and deliver products and services at a level that can compete internationally. For East GB Member of Parliament Kwasi Thompson, Dorian was not just a moment in history, it was personal. “We remember the loss of life, the destruction of homes and businesses, the devastation of entire communities and the tremendous uncertainty our people faced.” However, he said, today he remembers
devastation, one thought kept her going. “I still had life.” Surviving Dorian became the beginning of another kind of recovery, one that involved learning to live with what had happened while trying to rebuild what was lost. Liz Black, a Coral Reef resident, said Dorian left some families without the closure they desperately needed, particularly those who lost loved ones in East Grand Bahama. She remembers how she had to escape her home. “I had to walk LEADER of the Free National Movement, Michael Pintard (left), and Member of Parliament MINISTER for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey, laying a wreath at the Hurricane Dorithrough almost waist-high water FAMILY members remember their loved ones lost in Hurricane Dorian, as they reflect an memorial in High Rock on Wednesday, September 3, 2026. for East Grand Bahama, Kwasi Thompson, remember those lost in Hurricane Dorian. to leave my home,” she recalled. seven years later. Photo: BIS Photo: BIS Photo: BIS
REMEMBERING
DORIAN
seven years after Cat 5 hurricane became our worst natural disaster Seven years later, Mrs Black said the physical repairs have been only part of the recovery. “It’s just a memory that I am still recovering from mentally and emotionally, and I’m still making repairs to my house.” Stan, who asked us not to use his last name, said remembering Dorian remains painful. “It was deadly and traumatic, so thinking and remembering Dorian is
heartbreaking to me still,” Stan said. “The rain, the water, the wind howling, the devastation, the loss … it was just a lot.” Dorian took a toll on virtually every part of island life, but Stan said the devastation also revealed something about the character of the people who call Grand Bahama home. “It took a toll on the island, families, homes, businesses,” he said. “But as Grand Bahamians, even those who migrated here before and after that
storm, we are rebuilding slowly but surely. We are truly resilient people on this island of Grand Bahama.” The storm’s impact was felt far beyond individual homes. For the Grand Bahama business community, Dorian forced companies to reassess how they operate and respond to the needs of residents. Ralph Hepburn of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce said that, seven
needs that were created since Dorian,” Mr Hepburn said. “They have been able to fill in and, to some degree, change the way business operates in Grand Bahama and, in some cases, the entire Bahamas.” But rebuilding the economy, he said, requires more help from governments. Mr Hepburn pointed to bureaucracy and unnecessary red tape as continuing obstacles for entrepreneurs trying to establish or expand operations.
continue adapting to a changing global economy. “We have to adapt, bring on new ideas and try new things as it relates to technology, doing business, communication, shipping and how we go about sourcing stuff,” he said. He also believes Grand Bahama must deliver better customer service. The island’s businesses, he said, should be able to compete with international
the strength of the people. “Much of the progress we see today is a testament to their determination.” Mr Thompson said: “While assistance has been provided since Dorian, I do not believe that the full level of assistance and support promised to the people of East Grand Bahama has been delivered. The passage of time cannot be allowed to erase commitments that were made to our communities.”
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He noted that government should therefore establish a clear, funded and time-bound programme for completing the remaining Dorian-related projects in East Grand Bahama. “The people of East Grand Bahama have demonstrated their resilience. They have done an extraordinary amount to rebuild their lives and their communities. Government must now demonstrate that same determination and urgency to finish the work that remains.” Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party, Fred Mitchell, said the passage of seven years has not erased the pain left by Dorian. “After seven years, the devastating impact and catastrophic memories are still with us,” Mitchell said. “Abaco and Grand Bahama, and by extension the entire country, have endured much.” Hundreds of people who were displaced and forced to relocate, he noted, have returned home. Minister Mitchell said the government remains committed to creating more sustainable opportunities for residents during its current term, and Minister Ginger Moxey continues to work nonstop to improve the state of Grand Bahama. But rebuilding, he acknowledged, cannot rest with government alone. “It takes all of us,” he said. “The public and private sectors must deliver.” Dorian changed Grand Bahama. It tested the island’s strengths, exposed its vulnerabilities and altered the lives of thousands. But it did not erase the determination of the people who call the island home.
staniel cay
features
10 Friday, September 4, 2026 around da Islands
The
Chamberlains
of Staniel Cay
From humble beginnings in the 1950s to a thriving familyrun enterprise, the Chamberlains have shaped the vibrant community of Staniel Cay, blending tradition with tourism and leaving an indelible mark on the island's history. near the yacht club, a store at the airport, boat rentals and an air charter company. “Back in the early ’50s, it was basically just a short concrete dock, the clubhouse and a few 55-gallon drums of fuel,” John told Around Da Islands, recalling the humble beginnings of the Staniel Cay Yacht Club. “My dad fell in love with Staniel, bought out [the owner] and started the yacht club around 1958.” A partnership with Joseph Hocher followed and continued until the mid-1990s, when Mr Hocher assumed full ownership. Staniel Cay and its yacht club would soon gain international attention. In the 1960s, the island became a base for the crew of the James Bond film Thunderball, much of which was filmed in the surrounding waters, including the nearby underwater cavern now known as Thunderball Grotto.
THE FAMILY's rental cottages sit on beach-front property.
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net
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HE Chamberlain family has been part of the story of Staniel Cay for more than seven decades, beginning in the early 1950s when Albert ‘Bob’ Chamberlain took passengers through the Exumas aboard his sailboat charters, stopping at Staniel Cay to refuel. His fascination with the island eventually led him to establish what would become the Staniel Cay Yacht Club. Today, his son John and his family continue that legacy through a collection of businesses that includes colourful rental cottages along the beach
IN 1999, John Chamberlain and his wife, Bernadette, began building a collection of rental cottages.
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around da Islands Friday, September 4, 2026 11
The site has since become one of the Exumas’ best-known tourist attractions. The Chamberlains also played a role in preserving another of the region’s most famous attractions: the swimming pigs of nearby Big Major Cay. Their origins remain the subject of local lore. Stories suggest the pigs were left on the cay by passing sailors, survived a shipwreck or were introduced as part of an early scheme to attract tourists. Bob Chamberlain and his wife, who were originally from the United States, made The Bahamas their permanent home in the 1960s. They raised their adopted son and daughter on Staniel Cay, homeschooling them until high school, when they went to the United States and returned to the island during school breaks. “Every break, our dad would fly us home,” John recalled. “He taught me how to fly at about 14 years old, and I would take his plane and fly around The Bahamas.” John eventually returned to Staniel Cay permanently in 1986–87 and has remained there ever since. He became a permanent resident with the right to work in The Bahamas in 1992. In 1999, John and his wife, Bernadette, began building a collection of rental cottages, starting with the blue, two-bedroom Atlantica. “That was followed by one per year for a few years,” he explained. “We have a total of nine now, including a two-storey built in 2018.” The family’s business interests have continued to expand across the island. Their son, Dreko, operates an air charter service featuring three 10-seat Cessna 402 aircraft, while Dreko and his brother Tyree are also involved in the family’s boat-rental operation. Another son, Tywan, works at his mother’s store at the airport. The family’s entrepreneurial reach extends even further through Bernadette’s creative work.
“Bernadette has a photography business, does makeup, she’s a professional artist, owns the store and owns all the cottages,” John said. Her artistic touch is unmistakable throughout the family’s properties. Her paintings are displayed in the airport boutique, while her murals adorn the walls of the Chamberlain cottages. She also created the colourful, eclectic décor of the shared guest deck, where a bar and living-room-style seating provide visitors with a relaxed communal space. From a modest dock, clubhouse and a few fuel drums in the 1950s to a thriving family enterprise serving visitors by land, sea and air, the Chamberlain story is woven deeply into the modern history of Staniel Cay.
THE FAMILY’s business interests have continued to expand across the island to include a boat-rental operation.
Curator, Coupon, Liquid, Debris,
Sleeve, Anxious, Hold (clue), around da Islands 12 Friday, September 4, 2026
TV CROSSWORD
MUDDLESOME
9x4=36, 4x3=12, 5x7=35
Do I Hear a Waltz? Pacific Overtures West Side Story
SMALL CROSSWORD
Across: 1 Combining, 7 Once, CRYPTOQUOTE Across: 1 Paris, 6 Bart, 8 The Walsh, 8 Water, 10 Ago, 11 Donkey, 10 Alley, 11 Marco, 12 Animal, CLOCK-WISE 13 Underline, 14 Repair, 16 Tan, 15AGlen, AXYDLBA X R16 Krause, 17 Tate, Edges, 19 grid True, 20 Dismisses. SudokuZola, is aLake, number-placing puzzle based18on a 9x9 Keel, Elsa, Sago, Gozo is L O N G F E19 L Sisters, L O W21 Erin, 22 Feltz. 1 Conducted, with several given numbers. The object Down: is to place the 2 Onions, Down: 2 Anna, 3 Strong,A 4 Tara, One letter stands for another. In this example, is numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the3each Beak,row, 4 Nag, 5 Italian, 6 Groceries, each 5 Shameless, 6 Belfast, 7 Thy, 8 Whereas, 9 Endings, 12 Unique, and each box contains the same number only used for the three L’s, X for the 2 O’s, etc. Single columnQUIZ OF 3x3 THE WEEK 9 Everett, 13 Loki, 14 Seacrest, increases from Pits, 17 Gem. letters, apostrophes, the length and formation of once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku 15 17 Time, 18 Ewan, 20 Sue. 1 Foot, 2 Enid Blyton, 3 D, 4 Iran, to Sunday words are all hints. Each day the code letters are Monday CROSS DOUBT 5 1970s, 6 Africa, 7 Frequently, TV show: Scarpetta (9) different. 8 Grohl, 9 Thigh bone, 10 Out. Across: SQUID Down: PASTY PUZZLES@REACHPLC.COM
island
brainwaves
Dawdle, Melody.
Yesterday’s Answers
1
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5 9 6 7 8 4 1 6
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TARGET
Across: 3 Accessory, 8 Owns, 9 Addiction, 10 Dreams, 11 Stole, 14 Rival, 15 Exit, 16 Yearn, 18 Nous, 20 Emmet, 21 Regal, 24 Pullet, 25 Religious, 26 Afar, 27 Messenger. Down: 1 Bordering, 2 Endeavour, 4 Cads, 5 Edict, 6 Settle, 7 Room, 9 Amply, 11 Stall, 12 Exemplify, 13 Statutory, 17 Nexus, 19 Series, 22 Alien, 23 Fete, 24 Puce.
UPBRAIDED aped biped burp burped diaper drape draped drip drupe dupe duped padre paid pair paired pard pare pared pareu pear pied pier prau pride prided pried prude pure puri rape rapid reap repaid ripe upbraid UPBRAIDED
Yesterday’s
CHALLENGER
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blue lagoon
features
around da Islands Friday, September 4, 2026 13
“The Breakfast Club”
arrives at
Blue Lagoon
By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
B
LUE Lagoon Island has a new welcoming committee: a trio of capybaras named Maple, Waffle and Biscuit, collectively known as “The Breakfast Club.” Native to South America, capybaras are semi-aquatic mammals perfectly adapted for life near water. They possess partially webbed feet — four toes on the front and three on the back — making them exceptionally strong swimmers capable of staying submerged for up to five minutes. While exceptionally large individuals can reach weights of up to 174 lbs, the average female weighs approximately 135 lbs and the average male around 110 lbs.
Capybaras have gained global popularity for their social nature and gentle dispositions. And the newest Blue Lagoon residents have adapted nicely to their new surroundings excelling in their enrichment and
training programs, showcasing the intelligence and curiosity the
species is known for. “We are overjoyed to introduce Maple, Waffle and Biscuit to our guests. Not only are they incredibly charming, but they also serve as vital animal ambassadors,” said Taurean Moss, Director of Zoological Operations at Blue Lagoon Island. “By meeting these animals up close, our visitors can
learn about the biodiversity of South American rainforests and the importance of conservation across all ecosystems — and we are proud to support that mission through our educational programming and ongoing conservation partnerships.” Guests visiting the island can chose to participate in a
special capybara meet and greet. During this interactive program, guests can get up close the animals, take photos with them and learn fascinating facts about them. Blue Lagoon Island inspires and engages guests to learn more about marine animals and to preserve and protect the extraordinary ocean environment through educational, sustainable, interactive and authentic Bahamian experiences. The island offers encounters with native dolphins, stingrays and nurse sharks as well as California sea lions, among many educational activities including eco-nature walking tours that feature beautiful beaches and native flora and fauna.
Friday, September 4, 2026 around da Islands
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abaco
ABACO artist Samantha Sawyer
New collection of one-of-a-kind bags
from Hope Town Canvas and artist Samantha By LEIGH LIGHTBOURN
F
OR Abaco artist Samantha Sawyer, art has always been closely tied to place. The colours, textures, patterns and rhythms of the island find their way into her work, whether she is painting, creating mixed media pieces, designing a mural or developing work for a local business.
That connection has resulted in a new collaboration with Hope Town Canvas, Abaco, where Sawyer’s colourful paintings and patterns have been transformed into a collection of one-ofa-kind bags . “I love functional artwork,” Sawyer says. “I think the more art in the world the better. There is a great joy to be found in having beautiful everyday functional items that make you happy,
especially if they are Bahamian artists or brands.” The collaboration was a natural fit. Sawyer has been managing Hope Town Canvas’s social media for almost a year and has long admired founder Nakia Wong and the brand, which began as a small Hope Town venture creating handmade bags from well-traveled sails. “Nakia, the founder, and the brand itself have always been an inspiration
to me,” she says. “I have quite a few Hope Town Canvas bags in my personal collection, and they are just such a unique Bahamian woman-founded brand. Every time I go into their studio, I always leave inspired.” Hope Town Canvas approached Sawyer earlier this year about creating a painted collection. The two immediately found common ground in the brand’s playful, colourful aesthetic.
with diving being a passion that stirs memories, yet feel like a different universe. Her practice ranges from illustration and graphic design to large-scale murals and painting commissions. She has worked with Baker’s Bay, The Abaco Club and other Bahamian businesses, while her work is held in private collections in The Bahamas and the United States. “I still feel like I'm finding my voice as an artist,” she says. “I feel like I will always be working towards refining my body of work and improving it, and that I will always be evolving and shifting.” Yet whatever the medium, Abaco remains at the centre. “The landscape is integral to the body of work and always has been,” Sawyer says. “Texture, form, pattern, movement, all these things find their way back into my work.” The relationship became even more profound after Hurricane Dorian in 2019. “Seeing it being taken away in the blink of an eye had a big effect on not only me but the entire community,” she says. “With every shift, it has made me appreciate how significant a place is and its direct connection and web over just about everything I have loved and grown-up loving.” That sense of connection is perhaps what makes the Hope Town Canvas collaboration feel so fitting. Sawyer is not simply putting her artwork onto a bag. She is creating something rooted in the same islands, memories and visual language that have shaped her as an artist. “I’m very, very excited about people having a painting that they can carry around with them all day long,” she says. You can find Samantha Sawyer’s work at Hope Town Canvas or online at https:// www.samanthasawyerart.com
abaco
After some initial sketches, Sawyer began experimenting with chunky brushstrokes, inky washes, saturated colours and organic patterns. Bahamian motifs including fruit, fish and spiny lobster appear throughout the collection, with no two pieces painted exactly alike. “We honestly were blown away with the response we got and we are already brainstorming the next collaboration,” Sawyer says. For Sawyer, the collection also reflects a broader artistic journey. Born in 2003, she grew up in Abaco surrounded by the natural environment that continues to inform her work. She earned a BFA in Painting with a minor in Business from the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2025 and returned to Abaco last year to work as a full-time freelance artist. She spends as much time as she can under the sea,
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Friday, September 4, 2026 around da Islands