FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH, 2019
art books film fashion music society gardening history puzzles
Weekend
SOCA STARS IN CONCERT Page 11
A roaring good time BHS celebrates 95 years pages 14, 15 & 27
02 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
CULTURE
'Who We Are'
A renewed focus on Junkanoo with documentary and Kalik By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net
A
documentary giving a “360degree insight into the world of Junkanoo, showcasing every aspect of the process from start to ‘Bay’ “ is expected to released ahead of this year’s parades. The documentary is being released as part of the “Who Are We” campaign launched by Kalik. The campaign, which launched on November 4, is focused on highlighting Junkanoo while bridging the gap between the traditionalists and millennials. Special limited edition Kalik beer 16oz cans featuring various Junkanoo groups have also been released for the campaign. From its inception, Kalik has enjoyed a deep association with Junkanoo – even the brand’s name has a direct link to the sound of the traditional cowbells. And the brand has been doing its part continuously promoting the iconic cultural festival in positive light. According to Jared Cartwright, brand representative for Kalik, one of the main goals of the campaign is to “educate persons on Junkanoo and bring more attention to the art form while
showing the intricate details that go into the production of the elaborate costumes, music and everything else it entails.” “We also wanted to use this as an opportunity to attract the millennials and encourage them to become more involved in our culture and keep Junkanoo alive for years to come,” he said. Roots, the Saxons, the Valley Boys and One Family will be featured on 16oz Kalik cans and bottles, while Genesis, Prodigal Sons and Music Makers will be featured on Kalik beer bottles only. The campaign was embraced and met with excitement by members of the Junkanoo community. “It is an honour for us to be featured. It shows that Kalik recognises the importance of the Roots Junkanoo group in the Junkanoo community and the cans will assist us with promoting and building our fan base. Our group’s mascot is the lion, and lions are leaders…this is how we see ourselves. The fact that our mascot is displayed on the cans is truly an honour,” said Andrew Edwards, director on the Roots executive board.
Chairman of Superstar Saxons Toby Austin added: “For the mighty head of the Saxons to be on a Kalik beer speaks to the authenticity of what it means to be Bahamian.” The campaign goes a long way in putting the spotlight on a cultural event that has gone under-promoted and underappreciated said, said Brian Adderley, chairman of the Valley Boys. “We believe that the spirit of Junkanoo can be found in every Bahamian. And in the Valley Boys this spirit is manifested in the pride we put into all of our Junkanoo activities; we call it ‘Valley pride’.” Anthony Coakley, public relations officer for One Family, said the group is a “community that appreciates culture and traditions. “Kalik has again taken the lead in promoting and supporting the Junkanoo groups, presenting us via this new medium adds more promotional value to our brands and we are excited to be a part of it,” he said. The limited edition cans will be available until January 31, 2020 and the documentary will be released later this month.
Bottled & distributed by:
KLG Investments Ltd.
T: 394-7873
Order online for free home delivery!
www.tampico242.com
The Tribune | Weekend | 03
Friday, November 15, 2019
Inside Weekend
My perfect Bahamian weekend Inderia Green Author
Q
Interview 4 - 5 Bodybuilding champion Lorraine LaFleur talks like, love and competition Entertainment 7 Love is all around for ‘Jollification Actually’ Fashion 9, 13 Young designers get chance display their talent at ‘Afri’King’ showcase plus glam it up for the holiday season with Runway to Parris collection Gardening 10 Jack Hardy gets ‘herbilicious’ Music 11 ‘Restoration for the Bahamas’ concert event brings soca stars to Nassau Society 14 - 15 Bahamas Humane Society celebrates 95th anniversary with Roaring Twenties bash Celebrity 16 The hits and misses of the ‘Frozen II’ premiere Pageants 17 Miss World Vanessa Ponce De Leon makes historic visit to the Bahamas Books 18 The latest releases hitting shelves this week Calendar 19 Things to do around town this weekend Film 20 - 21 ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ‘Ford v Ferrari’ offer high-octane action Forgotten Facts 22 Paul C Aranha on the significance of the sponge industry History 23
Literary Lives 24-25
The first woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature Puzzles 26 Animals 27 BHS celebrates major milestone in style Cover | Shawn Hanna
: Saturday breakfast or Sunday lunch?
“Saturday breakfast. Any day breakfast actually. It’s the best meal to have.”
Q Q
: Wine, Kalik, rum or cocktail?
“Wine. Red. Port. That is all.”
: Beach or sofa?
“I would say the beach, but then again the sofa is so comfortable. So maybe a sofa on the beach.”
Q
: What could you not do without? “My Chapstick for my lips and a pen and notebook.”
Q
: Weekend away: where would you go?
“One of the Family Islands with a place that’s near the beach and has a hammock. I would usually say Abaco, but...well...yeah.”
This weekend in history
Today’s birthdays: Actress Lisa Bonet is 52. R&B singer Bryan Abrams (Color Me Badd) is 50. Actress Maggie Gyllenhaal is 42. Former NBA player Amare Stoudemire is 37. Actor-comedian Pete Davidson (”Saturday Night Live”) is 26.
November 15 • In 1864, during the American Civil War, Union forces led by Major General William T Sherman began their “March to the Sea” from Atlanta; the campaign ended with the capture of Savannah on December 21. • In 1959, four members of the Clutter family of Holcomb, Kansas, were found murdered in their home. (Ex-convicts Richard Hickock and Perry Smith were later convicted of the killings and hanged in a case made famous by the Truman Capote book “In Cold Blood.”) • In 1966, the flight of Gemini 12, the final mission of the Gemini programme, ended successfully as astronauts James A Lovell and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, Jr, splashed down safely in the Atlantic after spending four days in orbit. Today’s birthdays: Singer
November 17 Petula Clark is 87. Former “Jay Leno Show” bandleader Kevin Eubanks is 62. Actor Jonny Lee Miller is 47. Actress Sydney Poitier-Heartsong is 46. Hip-hop artist B.o.B is 31. Actress Shailene Woodley is 28.
November 16
• In 1776, British troops captured Fort Washington in New York during the American Revolution. • In 1939, mob boss Al Capone, ill with syphilis, was released from prison after serving 7 1/2 years for tax evasion and failure to file tax returns. • In 1960, Academy Awardwinning actor Clark Gable (”Gone with the Wind”) died in Los Angeles at age 59 of a heart attack.
• In 1558, Elizabeth I acceded to the English throne upon the death of her half-sister, Queen Mary, beginning a 44-year reign. • In 1869, the Suez Canal opened in Egypt. • In 1973, US President Richard Nixon told Associated Press managing editors in Orlando, Florida: “People have got to know whether or not their president is a crook. Well, I’m not a crook.” Today’s birthdays: Movie director Martin Scorsese is 77. Actor-director Danny DeVito is 75. “Saturday Night Live” producer Lorne Michaels is 75. Entertainer RuPaul is 59. Actress Rachel McAdams is 41. Rock musician Isaac Hanson (Hanson) is 39. – The Associated Press
04 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
interview
As one of the Bahamas’ few female bodybuilding champions, this motherof-one talks to Jeffarah Gibson about life, love, the craze for extreme hourglass figures, and competition on the world stage.
H
“
I have had my share of men who just did not understand me or were not aligned with who I am... But my attitude has always been ‘I do what I do because I want to’. If you are not rolling with that then you can leave.”
Lorraine LaFleur
ER ascension in the world of bodybuilding – placing fourth best in her category at this year’s Amateur World Cup in Spain – all started in 1999 with Lorraine LaFleur’s desire to lose her postpregnancy weight. For a woman whose weight normally never went over 100 pounds, Lorraine felt immensely uncomfortable and unlike herself when she had to wear a size 16 following the birth of her daughter. “I was always a slim person. Before I had my daughter I would usually weigh around 90 to 100 pounds. After having her, my weight went up to 180 pounds. So I went from wearing a size 2 or 3 to size 16,” she told Tribune Weekend. “My body changed in a major way, so much so I went into a state of depression. I only wanted to get back to how I used to be.” Frustrated with her body, Lorraine set out to change things. She bought fitness equipment to create her own home gym. “After working out at home I got bored because there is only so much you can do. I joined the gym, started working out. Then, after three years, my trainer had convinced me to compete. I got my body to the point where I could compete and I did,” she said. Ever since then Lorraine has been working her up in the sport of bodybuilding. Last March, she earned her professional card and this August she won her first pro show to qualify for the
Friday, November 15, 2019
“
I’m a little hotheaded and really shorttempered. My mouth will move before my brain. But being in the gym has taught me how to let things roll off my back a bit.”
International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness’ 2019 Amateur World Cup in Tarragona, Spain, where she placed fourth in the women’s physique elite pro category. “The women they picked ahead of me, their waistline was a little more defined, smaller than mine,” said Lorraine. “I guess that was what the judges wanted this time.” Now that one of the biggest events on her calendar this year has come to a close, Lorraine said she can eat whatever she wants to eat, but only for a few days, as she has to snap back into
her dietary routine as soon as possible to keep her body in peak shape. “I do what I do because I love having the body I have. I love being able to wear any and everything without having a bulge,” she said. “And going to the gym keeps me disciplined and focused.” It has also helped Lorraine with her temperament. “I’m a little hot-headed and really short-tempered. My mouth will move before my brain. But being in the gym has taught me how to let things roll off my back a bit.”
And she has allowed many things to roll off her back, including snide remarks from other women interested in reshaping their bodies. Some of these comments have included statements like, “She looks like a man; I don’t want
to look like man.” Nevertheless, Lorraine is still a source of encouragement to women who want to achieve their dream bodies. She embraces women who seek her out to help them with getting fit and having the body they had only imagined possible through plastic surgery. Thanks to celebrities like the Kardashians, Nicki Minaj and Amber Rose, not to mention the numerous Instagram models, big butts and hourglass figures are now more popular than ever. A big, round booty is for many a must-have to be attractive in this day and age. And while some women are reaching for supplements to hopefully gain weight and consequently achieve that much desired “junk in the trunk”, others – even here in the Bahamas – are taking the more drastic route of plastic surgery. “I always try to encourage women that they do not have to resort to surgery. Once you put your mind to it, it is something that is achievable,” said Lorraine. “Plastic surgery should always be the last option. All you have to do is put the time and work in. You can put in an hour in the gym once a day for a consistent period of time. She added: “I find that people do not want to do this. They do not want to work hard at this. They want the body of the their dreams in a day, but life does not really work like that.
Anything that is worth having takes time and hard work to get. “I tell women all the time who come to me for training that they can get that body, but it will take a lot of discipline. You have to give it at least six months to a year, but you will get there. The first month will be the hardest because your body is not used to feeling that way, but if you stick with it you will see the changes.” Even if some resort to surgery to achieve body they want, Lorraine said those people still cannot bypass the need for a healthy diet and a consistent exercise regimen. “How are you going to keep the figure after the surgery? You have to exercise and eat healthy, or else that body will not look the way it looked when you came off the surgery table.” In addition to helping women understand that their fitness goals are obtainable, Lorraine also encourages women to examine their motives behind the desire to make drastic changes to their bodies. “Many of them do it to please men. They know some Bahamian men love women who have fuller butts and breasts, so this is reason some of them are willing to go through that,” she said. As for Lorraine, all her fitness decisions have been solely based on what she wants for herself. “I have had my share of men who just did not understand me or were not aligned with who I am,” she said. “One of them said: ‘I can’t wait for your show to be over so you can put your weigh back on.’ But my attitude has always been ‘I do what I do because I want to’. If you are not rolling with that then you can leave,” she said. Today, Lorraine is in a committed relationship with a partner who is a great fit for her lifestyle. “We are like-minded. We are into fitness together and he supports me greatly. I have had people who wanted to change me, but I always knew what I wanted for me and nothing is going to change that,” she said. Being a female bodybuilder requires a level of self-assuredness that Lorraine has mastered. Her confidence in who she is has been the foundation for her personal and public successes. “I have learned to put me first and everything else follows,” she said.
06 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
The Tribune | Weekend | 07
Friday, November 15, 2019
entertainment
Love is all around for 'Jollification Actually' By ALESHA CADET
N
| Tribune Features writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net
assau’s favourite holiday festival is taking inspiration from a favourite Christmas film, “Love Actually”. Therefore, the Bahamas National Trust will be celebrating “Jollification Actually” next weekend. In the movie, the audience is shown how airports are not just places of arrivals and departure, but places where families and friends reunite in love. Last year, Lynn Gape, BNT’s Deputy Executive Director, watched from the front porch of The Retreat office as classmates hugged friends they had not seen for a long time. Over the years she has also witnessed the love displayed by those who attended Jollification as kids and now return as adults with their own families. Jollification, now in its 28th year, is the arts and crafts festival that traditionally kicks off the holiday season. The first night of the festival, Friday, November 22, is a members-only event. The gates then open to the general public November 23-24, from 11am to 5pm, at The Retreat, Village Road. “I have been involved with the event since its inception and watched it grow from 20 vendors to over 90 vendors. It feels great to celebrate 28 years,” said Ms Gape. “I asked someone recently why they loved Jollification so much and they responded that it was well organised and
had something for everyone: a great children’s area, good vendors, all in the beautiful Retreat Garden where they felt safe. What an endorsement!” The event features designer jewellery, artisanal jams and jellies, baked goods, strawwork, handmade soaps and candles, fabric art, and a plant area. There is a special children’s area sponsored by Asa H Pritchard which will introduce new product called ReCharge. This area provides a hands-on crafts area as well as unique environmental games. The popular Mistletoe Lounge will feature samples of holiday spirits from Bristol Wines and Spirits and beer and wine from the Bahamian Brewery. “Caribbean Bottling is a special partner providing a special gift for our members on the Friday evening and teaming up with Bristol Wines and Spirits to showcase mixers for that special holiday cocktail. Jollification also offers great shopping for unique Christmas gifts and decorations,” said Ms Gape. For those attending the event for the first time, she encourages them to come early to browse all the stalls, so by the afternoon they can relax and enjoy lunch from one of 14 food vendors and visit the Mistletoe Lounge for some holiday drinks that will make them feel jolly. “I would also encourage them to visit our membership
booth, play the Wheel of Parks game and learn about the BNT, and of course become a member,” she added. This year’s food vendors will include the Batter Girls, Filipino Delights, Corn Diggity, the Greek Annunciation Church, the New Duff, Conch and Cone, Vell Monkey Food, and Limeade Bahamas. Additional vendors at the event include: Bootleg Chocolate, Biggity, Hope Town Canvas, Linda Sands’ unique wine cork decorations, Pirates and Pearls, Tinkering Turtle, Imann Crafts with their unique garden birds made from PVC Pipe, Ridge Farms, the Bahamas Humane Society with its Christmas treats for your pet, and Flamingo Nurseries. Participating artists include Trevor Tucker, Dion Lewis, Clifford Fernander and Judith Papillion. The BNT works very hard to set a high standard with its Jollification vendors, said Ms Gape, making sure they offer LIKE every year, festival-goers can expect lots of eats, treats and unique and quality offerings Christmas goodies at Jollification. each year. “We look for new craft Ms Gape said she is espegive some of the Abaco glasses vendors so that the offerings cially pleased that all of the that featured the Lighthouse if change from year to year. It Jollification vendors from the we could get volunteers to run is a great family event and affected Hurricane Dorian the booth. Several weeks ago of course younger adults islands of Grand Bahama the Lighthouse group called love the Mistletoe Lounge and Abaco will still be and said they were coming; and the sampling of holiday participating. they needed to raise money spirits, learning about unique “It is tough for them, but for repairs for the lighthouse. cocktails they can offer at their they said they need this We hope that the relocated own Christmas parties. Our opportunity to help get back people from Abaco and Grand plant and garden area is also on their feet. The Elbow Cay very popular: offering unique Lighthouse Group had initially Bahama will come to the festival and enjoy the offerings and plants not usually found in called and said they didn’t reunite with old friends and nurseries and beautiful orchids think they could make it. Carfrom Flamingo Nurseries.” ibbean Bottling volunteered to acquaintances,” she said.
08 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
The Tribune | Weekend | 09
Friday, November 15, 2019
fashion
Young talent gets chance to shine on 'Afri'KING' runway By JEFFARAH GIBSON
F
| Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net
IVE student designers who enrolled in the Bahamas Fashion Week Junior Scholar programme will have the chance to showcase their talent alongside established fashion designers Cardell McClam and Christopher John at their upcoming showcase. The two founders of Cardellious – the Bahamas’ first full-figured fashion label – and the Cardell McClam brand are closing out the year with what they describe as one of their strongest collections to date: “Afri’KING”. The showcase is designed to be an embodiment strength, confidence and black empowerment. It will be held on November 24 at the Courtyard Marriott and will draw inspiration from the African identity and black excellence. The setting is an African palace. Cardell described the young designers’ segment on the night of “Afri’KING” as “a show within a show”. These designers were selected by the Ministry of Education’s teachers and chosen by the Bahamas Fashion Week 2019 team. “They will share my stage for the first time. I have never done that before. It is a full show and each designer will have three looks in total,” he told Tribune Weekend. “We are going to the featuring six designers from Bahamas Fashion Week Junior Scholar programme. They are all jewellery designers. I have mentored this these students during the month of June. The Ministry of Education partnered with me as far as identifying the students
DASHANTE Forbes of Doris Johnson High School
JESSICA Clarke of St John’s College
JOHANNA Casimir of L W Young
NAKIA Belle of CC Sweeting
DARA Nairn of Queen’s College
that are great in the subject of design and fashion. They submitted their applications and then were selected.” The designers range from age 12 to 17 and include Dara Nairn, Nakia Belle, Johanna Casimir, Jessica Clarke and Dashante Forbes. Their showcase theme will be centered around Disney movies that reflect their designs. “So it is almost like a two shows in one. But it will all blend with the theme of ‘Afri’KING’. The youngsters are expected to open up the show,” said Cardell. He believes students of the Bahamas Fashion Week Junior Scholar programme
have great opportunities ahead of them. And he believes this is especially true of the six participants in the showcase. “In 2017, a representative from SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) actually came to the Bahamas. They took on one of scholars who received a triple scholarship. We were able to write a recommendation for them, assist with video footage and putting a proper photoshoot together for their portfolios. But because SCAD is expensive that student remained here. However, they anticipate transitioning to SCAD in the new year,” said Cardell.
“Another scholar I mentored went off to college in Canada and she still does fashion as an extra income... The ones involved (in the programme) are definitely going in the direction of attending school for fashion and it is very exciting.” In addition to spotlighting the country’s young talent, Cardell said “Afri’KING” also want to bring awareness to men’s health issues. A local doctor will speak briefly about important facts men need to know about their health. Tickets for the showcase are $45 and can be purchased at Designer Sunglasses at the Mall at Marathon.
10 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
gardening
Herbilicious This week we complete our consideration of culinary herbs with a motley selection that includes some of the most interesting of all herbs, says Jack Hardy
O
ne is a shrub, another is a tree; all of them hold a special place in the herbal compendium. Rosemary is a large sprawling shrub that bears flowers of blue, white, pink or yellow, depending on the variety. I always advise gardeners to buy two rosemary plants, one to grow in a large pot and the other to grow in the garden at large. When small amounts of rosemary are needed the potted plant can be culled. Never touch the other shrub and allow it to reach a good size before using. Rosemary is a true Mediterranean plant that once well rooted has extreme drought resistance. The pine-like flavour is used for white meats, hoofed or fowl. The strength of the herb can be increased by picking stems and allowing them to dry for a week or so before using. Rosemary is easily propagated by ground cuttings. Bend a low branch until it reaches the ground and then arcs up. Remove leaves from the area that will be underground and break the branch
so it remains attached to the main plant. Bury this an inch or so into the ground and fasten in place. If you cannot find anything better you can use a clothes pin and secure the branch with the long end. Within two months roots will have developed and the cutting can be snipped and potted. Rosemary is a barbecuer’s friend. Go to your large shrub and remove whole branches to lay between joints of meat and the grill, or pan and meat in the oven. Rosemary in this style adds great flavour to smoked meat. Bay laurel is a tree and should be planted in welldrained soil in full sun or part shade. It is possible to propagate a half-inch stem by mossing but the process is not always successful so I would advise buying a rooted plant from a nursery. It is the common practice to strip off all growth from the lower part of a juvenile plant and allow
the foliage to bush out above this point. Bay leaves can be used in virtually any soup, stew, or sauce . They are most flavoursome when partly dried but remaining green. Try boiling your cubed potatoes in water that has had a bay leaf added when making potato salad. I have an earthen ware garlic roaster that I only use occasionally, and I keep bay leaves there to have handy access. A week in the garlic roaster brings the bay leaves to optimal strength. Always cut leaves from the parent plant using a pair of scissors. Pulling on the leaves sometimes causes stripping of the bark. Try to keep your bay laurel tree at an appropriate height. It can grow to over 20 feet but is better – and the leaves more easily accessible – to be kept at about eight feet. Bay laurel is an ideal candidate to be grown in a 20-gallon or larger pot.
Mint is a tough herb that often grows too well during the cooler months. The main varieties are peppermint, spearmint, and apple. Mint leaves should be used raw whenever appropriate because cooking beyond a mere scalding introduces a grassy flavour that is not pleasant. If you wish to contain mint plants you should grow them in three-gallon pots. Be sure to remove them every spring, cut the root ball in half, re-pot one half and start another pot with the other. More mint is used in drinks – think mint julep and mojito – than in foods, usually spearmint. Lime and lemon mint can be used in drinks as a change of pace. There are dozens of different mints available such as pineapple, grapefruit, orange, banana, ginger, chocolate, Tashkent, Vietnamese, Moroccan and Egyptian. Catnip is a mint. Plant different varieties of mint well away from each
other as flavour is reduced by cross-pollination. Fennel is loved in sunny parts of Italy but is very much under-used in The Bahamas. It grows readily and produces 5-6 feet stems from an edible root. The herb part of the plant is the leaves which in regular fennel is not particularly strong. The solution is to buy a much smaller herbal variety that is useless as a vegetable but wonderful chopped and sprinkled onto Mediterranean dishes where is does the same duty as fennel seeds in Italian tomato sauce. No doubt if The Tribune were produced in Oslo instead of Nassau the very first herb to be considered would have been dill. Here it is the last, a position it does not deserve. The leaves of dill are called dill weed and are the true herbal part of the plant. Dill weed can be used the same way as fennel and sprinkled onto finished meals. It can also be used as a garnish. It is an essential ingredient of German potato salad and our local potato salad takes on added zest with added dill weed. I would guess that locally dill weed is used more for dressing salmon than any other purpose. Dill grows very easily from seed and can be propagated year-round. The crowning glory is the seeds that follow flowering as these are much stronger in flavour than dill weed. When the seeds form you can bend the top of the plant over and enclose the seed heads in a paper bag, using a twist-tie for adhesion. A tea made from dill seeds is a gentle gas reliever used especially for babies. •For queries and comments e-mail jacktribune242@ gmail.com
The Tribune | Weekend | 11
Friday, November 15, 2019
MUSIC
Soca stars kick off ‘Restoration for the Bahamas’ concert event tomorrow
ALISON Hinds
BUNJI GARLIN
By ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net
T
he venue is all set up and the artists are confirmed and ready to kick off the “Restoration for the Bahamas” benefit concert weekend. The entertainment extravaganza starts tomorrow at 7pm in Pompey Square and will see soca stars Bunji Garlin, FayAnn Lyons, Skinny Fabulous, Alison Hinds, Mr Killa, Blaxx, D Mac, Wendi, and Julien Believe take the stage. Viking Ding Dong, DJ Shuttah, BTeam deejays, DJ Bravo will be at the turntables and Jaiga will host. The plans for the crossCaribbean event were set in motion by Minister Marion Hall, formerly known as the dancehall artist Lady Saw. She used social media to offer her prayers to the Bahamas during these difficult times. Referring to Nassau as her “second home”, she called on her fellow entertainers to help in any way they could. “Let me tell you something, it is so heart-wrenching to see
what is going on there and I feel so helpless, like I am just sitting here. Bahamas, we are praying for you, we are crying with you, we love you, condolences – help is already on the way in name Jesus Christ. I’m calling on all my brothers and sisters of the Caribbean music industry to lend us your time and voice in taking part in this incredible venture,” she said in her Instagram post. Minister Hall’s manager, Delroy Escoffery, reached out to his contacts in the Bahamas, connecting with Fresh Entertainment’s Crispen Cleare, and plans for the mega concert began to take shape. The concert will also feature a gospel showcase in Pompey Square on Sunday, November 17, beginning at 7pm. It will feature Minister Marion Hall herself, as well as Kevin Downswell, Carlene Davis, Rhoda Isabella, Christian Massive, Pastor Bruce Davis, DJ Godson, Oslien Jadorte, and Ity Ellis will host. “The anticipation for this concert internationally,
FAY-ANN LYONS everybody is super excited... With Minister Hall, everything is very spiritual and she believes God placed this in her heart. And if the concert is supposed to happen, it will happen. Prior to becoming Minister Hall she was practically a resident of the Bahamas over the course of her career as Lady Saw, so this is something that is near and dear to her heart and we appreciate her,” said Africa Allah of Fresh Entertainment. Ms Allah and her team are grateful for the fact that the participating artists are still talking about Hurricane Dorian on their social media
SKINNY FABULOUS accounts as it is an issue that should not be put on the back burner. “The hurricane happened and it is going to take a long time to rebuild, so the Caribbean is stepping up and doing what they are doing; it is a lot of love. For these artists to do this for gratis with no outrageous requests and just doing it out of the goodness of their heart because they have generated so much revenue from the Bahamas over the years, is moving. And with the introduction of carnival in our country, Bahamians are being introduced to more artists on our platform and it is only
right they support us because they are sure that we would do the same,” she said. During the initial planning stages of the event, a reggae and dancehall night was scheduled to take place. This segment of the concert, however, has now been postponed to January 2020. “There was some discourse with the artists as it regards to travelling, availability and scheduling conflicts, so we are going to push the reggae night to January. So it is not cancelled, it is postponed,” said Ms Allah.
12 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
shopping
Customisation is key for small jewellery design company By ALESHA CADET
| Tribune Features writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net
I
t’s only November, but shops have already rolled out the Christmas decorations and have started playing the Yuletide tunes. So it’s definitely not too early to get a start on your Christmas shopping list. Popular gift options are of course the traditional perfumes, electronics and jewellery. To compete with the big stores, small local businesses like Butlaire are seeking to offer customised, unique present ideas. Team Butlaire is a group of experienced design, marketing, retail and brand-building entrepreneurs who are committed to providing luxurious and trendsetting products and experiences. Butlaire currently offers jewellery for men and women. The team’s most popular product are the customisable photo pendants and the Bahamas Independence jewellery sets. “We believe that the Butlaire customisable photo pendants will make an excellent Christmas gift. Customers can feature themselves, their children, pets, or memorialise loved ones who have passed on. It is a gift that is thoughtful, affordable, beautifully designed and customised to the best artisan standards,” said Jacob Butler of Butlaire. “(They are) 18K gold overlay made to industrial standards and are of the finest craftsmanship. With our pendants, we wanted to offer a product that would be meaningful and individualised for our customers.” When it comes to the feedback received from
Bahamians, Mr Butler said the team feels a sense of gratitude. “At Butlaire we truly value our customers and we take the time to explain many misconceived notions about jewellery. The marketplace is filling up with many vendors who are willing to take advantage of unsuspecting
customers. Therefore, it is extremely important that we provide honest, benchmarked and current information to our customers. In this business, we work to surpass expectations, not create disappointment. The team will continue to research, innovate and
expand our collection,” said Mr Butler. Going forward, he said there are new designs in the pipeline that are intended to broaden the team’s appeal to other demographics. “ We are also thankful to the customers who continue to support the brand and
provide suggestions. We take recommendations from our customers very seriously,” said Mr Butler. Butlaire products are available for purchase at YNGDGRT$ on Rosetta Street. Worldwide shipping is also available at yndgrts.com.
The Tribune | Weekend | 13
Friday, November 15, 2019
fashion
Glam it up for the holiday season
Power shoulders, 90s’ satin and rich velvet are back By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
T
he festive season is right around the corner and it is never too early to begin planning your holiday wardrobe for all the upcoming parties and celebrations. To ensure Bahamians ladies are fully decked out this Christmas, the Runway to Parris brand is launching its holiday collection early. From rich velvet dresses to bold shouldered party numbers, the new collection is designed to sparkle and shine. The brand will be hosting a special dinner event to unveil the pieces in the collection. “Our holiday collection drops right on time – the beginning of party season, also known as the time when we get to have the most fun with our wardrobes,” said Parris Barnes, owner of the Runway to Parris brand. The holiday collection debuts on November 30 at the company’s very first pop-up to be held at Bon Vivants coffee shop in Sandyport from 12pm
“Taking you all the way back to the 70s and the 80s, and of course the 90s – all these eras showcased with bold and powerful looks. Our collection resurrects those decadent eras.” to 4pm. It will feature the season’s most dominant colours and styles. “Fall/Winter is probably one of my personal favourite seasons because this is the season where you can have a little more fun with your wardrobe. This season, satin
PARRIS BARNES, owner of the Runway to Parris brand
1980’s style power shoulders and metallics are back in style.
is back to stay. Versace brought it back with their 90s satin dress and now we can’t get enough. Then you have the power shoulder. Some may say the 80s is a difficult decade to pull off, but bold shoulders are back. We’ve seen a lot of designers showcase power shoulders and a slim waist silhouette on the runways. Metallics, sequins, velvets, fringe, animal prints and bold colourful tailoring are all what is trending
this holiday season,” said Ms Barnes. Runway To Parris is a collection of specialty brands curated to include the most sought-after styles. Founded in 2018, Mr Barnes said she and her team translated the traditional brick-and-mortar boutique into a singular online shopping experience. The upcoming fashion show will feature 20 plus pieces – Hollywood glam with a modern mix. “Taking you all the way back to the 70s and the 80s, and of course the 90s – all these eras showcased with bold and powerful looks. Our collection resurrects those decadent eras. Our holiday collection signifies femininity; we want women to feel sexier, powerful, more mature and daring” she said.
16 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
celebrity The Weekend Fashion Report ‘Frozen II’ Premiere
SPLIT
SPLIT
FAIL
SPLIT
Kristen Bell
Patrick Starrr
Busy Philipps
Karin says: “I wish she’d worn something more on-theme considering she is the voice of Anna. I’m not crazy about the rough linen material, but otherwise I actually like it. It’s different, simple and striking. I’m not sure the colour suits her though.” Alesha says: “I don’t blame Kristen; play it safe, girlfriend. I would have, however, appreciated the exact same dress in a silver or sheer grey colour, to match the ‘Frozen’ theme, I suppose.”
Karin says: “This is pure Patrick Starrr. I likely the sparkly material, but I almost wish he’d switch it up a bit. He’s been wearing this same look with the headwrap for years now. The icicleesque necklace is perfect for ‘Frozen’, but it’s a maybe a bit much.” Alesha says: “I love it. A showing of metallic fabulousness. The headpiece, the jewels, and of course the ‘slayage’ with the make-up – Patrick has it all. It’s ‘Frozen’, but chic ‘Frozen’.”
Karin says: “This is just atrocious. I know Busy has her own particular style, but this looks like a little girl’s dress in a giant size. It’s not flattering; it’s not even stylish in an avant-garde way. That collar and bow look like a clown’s.” Alesha says: “LOL. Wow, what is this? It is not even suitable for a tea party. The dress is a decided ‘fail’ on my part; no question about it. However, those shoes are cute, honey.”
Yvette Nicole Brown Selena Gomez with her sister Gracie Karin says: “Yvette looks Elliot Teefey like she’s in the frozen North herself. I’m not 100 percent sold on it, but it does work for this particular premiere. Yes, it’s basically a house coat belted over a black sheath dress (or bodysuit?), but it’s still stylish.” Alesha says: “Nope, nope and nope. It’s almost like one big throw rag with a long-sleeved bodysuit underneath. The kinda thing you wear while getting ready to put on the real red carpet outfit. Apart from all of that, I like the natural makeup and the high bun.”
HIT
Karin says: “Talk about being on-theme! They look like they came straight from Arendelle. I love that Selena went all out for her little sister like this. I normally don’t like anything too costume-y, but this I approve of.” Alesha says: “OK, there is a lot going on, but I can’t help but find it cute. Maybe it’s the little version of the outfit that is getting me. I love how fascinated kids are with ‘dress up’ and how they support their favourite characters, so I will give them both a pass for cuteness.”
Photos/Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP
With Karin Herig and Alesha Cadet
The Tribune | Weekend | 17
Friday, November 15, 2019
pageants
Miss World visits the Bahamas on a historic trip
F
or the first time in the history of the Miss World pageant, a reigning Miss World is visiting Bahamas. When she touched down at the Lynden Pindling International Airport on Tuesday, Vanessa Ponce De Leon of Mexico became the first queen of the world’s largest and longest running international pageant to visit these islands. Miss World Bahamas Nyah Bandelier is hosting the queen, who will be helping her to raise money for her Abaco School Restoration, an initiative which is the focus of her ‘Beauty With a Purpose’ project. Nyah, who with the support of sponsors ALIV and REV TV has already raised $20,000 for Hurricane Dorian relief efforts, also plans to donate funds to assist with the care of children who were displaced or orphaned during the storm. A series of events were planned for the visit, which ends on Saturday. Pageant fans will have an opportunity to meet and greet Miss World while donating to this worthy cause. Tonight, a fashion show and wardrobe unveiling for Nyah Bandelier will be held at Sapodilla. Creations of some of the nation’s leading designers, including David Rolle and Theodore Ellyet, will be showcased, with Miss World and former Bahamas titleholders serving as models. Key pieces from Nyah’s Miss World wardrobe will also be displayed at the event, for which tickets are $30 per person. Miss World also got to enjoy a bit of Bahamian culture while here. A visit was planned to Educulture Junkanoo Museum, and a special assembly was held by the
THE REIGNING Miss World Vanessa Ponce De Leon is in the Bahamas to assist with hurricane relief efforts.
LOCAL designers Theodore Elyett (left) and David Rolle will showcase some of their creations at tonight’s event. students of Cleveland Eneas Primary School. The international beauty also visited the Ranfurly Home for Children and took a trip to Marsh Harbour to see first-hand the devastation on left behind by Hurricane Dorian.
The Bahamas will be the final stop of her trek across the globe before she heads to London to pass the coveted blue crown to her successor. The Miss World finale is set for December 14 in London.
MISS World Bahamas Nyah Bandelier’s wardrobe for the upcoming international pageant will be unveiled tonight.
18 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
books
New releases hitting shelves this week • NOT THE GIRL YOU MARRY BY ANDIE J CHRISTOPHER (romance)
Jack Nolan is a gentleman, a journalist, and unlucky in love. His viral success has pigeon-holed him as the how-to guy for a buzzy, internet media company instead of covering hard-hitting politics. Fed up with his fluffy articles and the app-based dating scene as well, he strikes a deal with his boss to write a final piece de resistance: How to Lose a Girl. Easier said than done when the girl he meets is Hannah Mayfield, and he’s not sure he wants her to dump him. Hannah is an extremely successful event planner who’s focused on climbing the career ladder. Her firm is one of the most prestigious in the city, and she’s determined to secure her next promotion. But Hannah has a bit of an image problem. She needs to show her boss that she has range, including planning dreaded, romantic weddings. Enter Jack. He’s the perfect man to date for a couple weeks to prove to her boss that she’s not scared of feelings. Before Jack and Hannah know it, their fake relationship starts to feel all too real—and neither of them can stand to lose each other.
• THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE, BUT FIRST IT WILL PISS YOU OFF! BY GLORIA STEINEM (non-fiction)
For decades people around the world have found guidance, humour, and unity in Gloria Steinem’s gift for creating quotes that offer hope and inspire action. From her early days as a journalist and feminist activist, Steinem’s words have helped generations to empower themselves and work together. Covering topics from relationships (“Many are looking for the right person. Too few are trying to be the right person.”) to the patriarchy (“Men are liked better when they win. Women are liked better when they lose. This is how the patriarchy is enforced every day.”) and activism (“Revolutions, like trees, grow from the bottom up.”), this is the definitive collection of Steinem’s words on what matters most. Steinem sees quotes as “the poetry of everyday life,” so she also has included a few
favourites from friends, including bell hooks, Flo Kennedy, and Michelle Obama.
• QUEEN OF THE CONQUERED BY KACEN CALLENDER (fantasy)
Sigourney Rose is the only surviving daughter of a noble lineage on the islands of Hans Lollik. When she was a child, her family was murdered by the islands’ colonizers, who have massacred and enslaved generations of her people -- and now, Sigourney is ready to exact her revenge. When the childless king of the islands declares that he will choose his successor from amongst eligible noble families, Sigourney uses her ability to read and control minds to manipulate her way onto the royal island and into the ranks of the ruling colonizers. But when she arrives, prepared to fight for control of all the islands, Sigourney finds herself the target of a dangerous, unknown magic. Someone is killing off the ruling families to clear a path to the throne. As the bodies pile up and all eyes regard her with suspicion, Sigourney must find allies among her prey and the murderer among her peers... lest she become the next victim.
The Tribune | Weekend | 19
Friday, November 15, 2019
FRI 11/15
• Good Times Happy Hour Time: 5pm - 9pm Venue: Hillside House Bar, Cumberland Street Hillside House Bar’s Good Times Happy Hour returns. Unwind after work or start your night on the town at Hillside.
• Glow Spin Party Time: 6pm - 7pm Venue: Energy Fitness Bahamas Fall back into Fall and fall in love with spin all
The Tribune Established 1903
over again. Ride into the night to your favorites tunes. Members pay $25, non-members $20.
• Prohibition Cognac & Smoke Experience Time: 6pm - 11pm Venue: British Colonial Hilton Enjoy ready D’ussé cognac and music by the Synergy Band at the Bullion Bar. Tickets are $50 per person and include a cigar, a drink and complimentary parking.
Editior’s Voice
SAT 11/16
Cordeaux Avenue and Washington Street For a donation of $12, choose from chicken or rib dinners with peas n’ rice and two sides. The fundraiser will assist the school with a minor upgrade to their facilities.
• Atlantis Bourbon Bash
|100 Jamz | Y98
weekend
• St Barnabas Garden Club PreShow Plant Sale Time: 11am - 5pm Venue: St Barnabas Anglican Church Visitors can expect to find orchids, succulents, airplants, native fruit trees and ceramic pots. The entrance fee is $5. • Kingdom Kids Fundraising Cookout Time: 12noon - 5pm Venue: Kingdom Kids school, #9
Saturday & Sunday An Evening with Miss World 2018 Vanessa Ponce de Leon Time: Friday, 7pm Venue: Sapodilla Restaurant Meet the Vanessa Ponce de Leon, the first Miss World to visit the Bahamas during her reign, and get a sneak peek of the wardrobe Miss World Bahamas Nyah Bandelier will be wearing for the upcoming international pageants. Both queens will be modelling creations of leading Bahamian designers during a fashion show. Tickets are $30. The event is in aid of hurricane relief efforts.
What's going on this Being Bound To Swear To The Dogmas Of No Master
Time: 6.30pm 10pm (continues on Saturday) Venue: Atlantis, Paradise Island Enjoy the resort’s inaugural Bourbon Bash event, featuring liveaction cooking, live entertainment, desserts, barbecue dinners, and cocktails for all bourbon connoisseurs. For more information, call 3633000, option 1.
• Adria Bee’s Book Launch for “God and the GOAL Digger” Time: 12pm - 3.3pm Venue: Shop The CC, Mackey Street
Enjoy drinks and treats and pick up your exclusively signed copy of “God and the GOAL Digger,” a 40-day detox devotional challenge. Author Adria Bree opens up about being at one of the lowest points in her life, from which she had to reinvent herself as a woman in Christ and a woman in business.
• The Nassau Night Market Time: 2pm - 10pm Venue: Market Slope, next to the Straw Market The street festival highlights Bahamian culture and entrepreneurship through offering entertainment, flavorful foods and precious products. It is a family-friendly event which seeks to enliven Downtown’s dead hours.
SUN 11/17
• Free Financial Tips for Millennials Workshop Time: 4pm - 6pm Venue: #56 Collins Avenue Sip complimentary wine and mimosas as host Nelson Smith, an insurance expert, talks financial planning every third Sunday of the month. The workshop is free, but participants must register. Call 8124177 or e-mail nelson. smith@colina.com.
20 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
film
Review:
Elizabeth Banks takes a shot at ‘Charlie’s Angels’
I
charlie's angels | 118 minutes
f you’re watching a big studio film featuring a female ensemble, there is a 50 percent chance that there is going to be some monologue about how men underestimating women is both a truism and an advantage. It’s becoming as inevitable as environmentalist supervillains. On its face it’s a harmless observation and a signal to the audience that this movie is aware of modern gender politics. Sometimes it’s even passable, as in “Hustlers.” But where it starts to wear thin is when the movie around it doesn’t stand up to even the most modest expectations of popcorn entertainment (hello, “Ocean’s 8”). The latter is more the case with “Charlie’s Angels ,” starring Kristen Stewart, Ella Balinska and Naomi Scott. It is, of course, a semi-reboot of the 1970s television series that spawned a film series and another attempt at a television show. While it has always featured three women in the lead roles, the original concept was not exactly a model of enlightened feminism. And unhelpful monikers like “Jiggle TV” did their best to undermine any kind empowerment that audiences might have derived from seeing women leading a popular television show. Even Farah Fawcett once chalked
the show’s No 1 status up to bras (or lack thereof). But then Drew Barrymore and McG came along with a take that knowingly winked at its own history of sexploitation while playing into a very 1990s “you go girl” concept. Add a batch of charismatic movie stars and a Destiny’s Child anthem about financial independence and suddenly “Charlie’s Angels” seemed fresh. What is most surprising about the latest “Charlie’s Angels,” which was written and directed by Elizabeth Banks, who also plays the part of Bosley, is how little the “go
KRISTEN STEWART, Ella Balinska and Naomi Scott as “Charlie’s Angels”.
girl” feminism of the 2000 film has evolved in nearly 20 years. Blame society or a lack of imagination on the part of the filmmakers, but there is nothing all that new about the ideas here. The film even feels the need to hit the audience over the head with a “girls can do anything” message right at the start with an entirely sincere (and wholly disconnected) montage showing pre-teens doing things like sports and science. But then the question of expectations rises again: What are we really looking for in a “Charlie’s Angels” movie after all? Not terribly much.
Some good action, costumes and chemistry from the leads, perhaps. In other words, just entertain us. And in that respect, this 2019 “Charlie’s Angels” only partially succeeds. The action is fine and engaging but nothing we haven’t seen before. The costumes, by Kym Barrett, are fantastic (a love letter to sequins, hot pants and excess) as are all the fierce makeup looks. As for the chemistry? Well, it’s a little lacking. Part of that is due to the story. These Angels don’t have a pre-existing relationship. Stewart’s Sabina
and Balinska’s Jane are solo operators. And one (Scott) isn’t even an Angel at all, but an engineer who gets dragged into the fray because she’s discovered that the energy saving device she created can be weaponised. So when things go awry with the device and it’s stolen to be sold on the black market, they have to learn to work together under the oh-so-fabulous and ohso-jaded guidance of Banks’ Bosley. Stewart is having so much fun playing such a sarcastic and carnal character that it’s impossible not to smile along with her, but the others get a bit lost in her movie star shadow. The interplay of three magnetic stars is what made the 2000 film so appealing. And Stewart’s delightful comedic turn is not enough to carry the sluggish beginning. The film does some clever things: It doesn’t erase the Angels of the past and Bosley now is a “rank,” not a single person. Sam Claflin, as a wealthy tech entrepreneur, and Patrick Stewart as another Bosley are also lively standouts who, like Kristen Stewart, know what movie they’re in. But by the time its found its footing and a pace and energy that holds up to the flash, it’s already the end. LINDSEY BAHR AP Film Writer
The Tribune | Weekend | 21
Friday, November 15, 2019
film
Review: 'Ford v Ferrari' is a very pleasant (fast) ride
C
MATT Damon as the legendary American driver and car designer Carroll Shelby Photos/Merrick Morton/20th Century Fox via AP
ford v ferrari | 152 minutes ops might do well Mans in Georgia because the to position their original has been too altered speed traps near in the intervening years. movie theatres Damon plays the legendwherever the new ary American driver and car film “Ford v Ferrari” is playdesigner Carroll Shelby, who ing. They might fund their won Le Mans in 1959 but gets whole year’s budget busting sidelined from driving due to speeders peeling out of the a bad heart. He considers the parking lots. best driver in the world to be This infectious and Ken Miles, a daredevil British engrossing story of the 1966 missile played by Bale. showdown on a French raceIf Damon is a bad boy, then track between car giants Ford Bale is a bad-bad boy, a role and Ferrari is a high-octane perfectly in his wheelhouse, ride that will make you instinc- another intense, almost-overtively stomp on a ghostly gas the-top role. But it’s Damon, pedal from your movie seat. almost subdued with little But you don’t need to be fireworks necessary, who a motorhead to enjoy Matt shows real compassion as a Damon and Christian Bale as man caught between corporate a pair of rebels risking it all for responsibility and honour. purity and glory. Yes, direcLe Mans by the mid-60s tor James Mangold takes you was a plaything of Ferrari, down onto the raceway, with which dominated year after cameras low to the ground and year. Lee Iacocca, then an care to show the crack of gear executive with the Ford Motor shifts and feet on pedals. Company, convinces his boss, Yet he’s not created a “Fast Henry Ford II, to enter the and Furious” film — this is racing world and win Le Mans more a drama about a pair of — not necessarily for glory but visionaries who fight against to make the company appeala smarmy bureaucracy. That ing to young buyers. vision happens to be on a “James Bond does not drive track. a Ford, sir,” Iacocca (played The first three-quarters by Jon Bernthal, perfectly of “Ford v Ferrari “ sets the cast, showing layers) tells stage for the furious 40-minute Ford. “We need to think like restaging of the exhausting Ferrari.” Le Mans race — a 3,000-mile, Ford initially tries to do that 24-hour slalom through counby just buying Ferrari — but try roads. So meticulous have Italian head Enzo Ferrari tells the filmmakers been that they the Ford delegation to “go built an entire accurate Le back to Michigan, back to your
CHRISTIAN Bale as the British daredevil race car driver Ken Miles. big ugly factory.” Boo! That naturally ruffles the feathers of Henry Ford’s son (Tracy Letts, lighting up every scene with unpredictable energy) and so Ford is now ready to build its own race team. The film at some points should be called “Ford v Ford” as Shelby and Miles butt heads against an army of Ford executives in Brooks Brothers suits. The marketing paper-pushers are constantly trying to insert themselves into the race and especially don’t want Miles to drive because they deem him “not
a Ford man.” Shelby fights back: “You can’t win a race by committee.” The film then goes to the 24 Hours of Le Mans — fake grainy TV and radio broadcasts help set up the tension — and you can almost smell the burnt rubber. “She’s hot, mate. Crack on!” one driver says of the Ford’s GT40 Mark II. Enzo Ferrari glowers from his box in the stands and the filmmakers don’t bother to translate everything the Italian team says, so clear is the acting.
Many of the songs we hear are well placed — it’s got a soundtrack of The Animals, The Sparkles and The Quarrymen — plus, you’ll marvel at another past technology: Sunglasses in the 1960s would make anyone look cool. Perhaps the only thing overshadowing the two Oscarwinning lead actors in this film are the cars. They’re truly drool-worthy. But be gentle on your gas pedal on your way home. MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer
22 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
HISTORY
'Sponger money never done' Forgotten facts | Paul C Aranha
W
hen George Symonette sang
“Sponger Money Never Done”, his audience tapped their feet and sang along: “Sponger money never done, sponger money/Sponger money never done, sponger money/Sponger money is a lot of fun, you got sponger money.” He memorialised the days when the sponge industry was king. George was one of Nassau’s leading calypso/Goombay singers, unforgettable for his music and his stunning looks. In William R Johnson, Jr’s book “Bahamian Sailing Craft” there’s a lot about the people, the boats and the equipment that made sponge-fishing so profitable. Sailing vessels were the life-blood of settlements in the Out Islands, carrying passengers, livestock and freight between the islands and to Nassau. Settlements that had locally-based (and usually locally-built) boats were more self-sufficient than those where there were no boats. Those that that did not have boats of their own were dependent upon others. And it was not uncommon for weeks to go by without any connection to the outside world and no food or other supplies reaching the settlement. A nearby supply of wood and a skilled ship’s carpenter with an eye for choosing the right trees to cut were the first essentials of successful boat-building and many of these boats were built
A RECORD by George Symonette
FORGED iron sponge hook (Image/ William R Johnson, Jr)
in places like Mangrove Cay, Andros, which in the 1920s was second mostpopulated island in the Bahamas. Some might be owned, and operated, by a single family, others by an entire settlement. Andros thrived on sponge-fishing, using their schooners and manpower to gather wool sponge from the spongebeds west of Andros island known as ‘The Mud’. A schooner carried a crew of 10 to 20 men and six to eight dinghies.
When they reached The Mud, the schooner captain would anchor his vessel and the dinghies, each with a crew of two, were put overboard. One man would scull and the other would be the spotter who looked through a water-glass until he saw sponges. Then, using a special hook on a long pole, he would ‘rip’ the sponges from the seabed. Life on a spongeschooner was harsh. Work started at dawn and sponges were ‘hooked’ non-stop until noon.
After lunch it was back to ‘hooking’ until the sun went down. It was ‘man’s work’ and the women were left behind to keep the home fires burning, without seeing their men for many, many weeks.
At the end of each day, the seamen stored the sponges aboard the schooner until there was no more storage space. At this point, the sponges were taken ashore and put into shallow kraals,
where they would rot. A few weeks later, the sponges would be washed, pounded, washed again, then strung in the ship’s rigging to dry, after which the schooner would set sail for the Sponge Exchange in Nassau – a huge shed at the foot of Frederick Street – where they were sold to the highest bidder. Once graded and packed, the sponges were shipped abroad. The spiritual needs of the fisherman were provided at St Cuthbert’s Seamen’s Mission, an outreach of Christ Church Cathedral. • For questions and comments, e-mail islandairman@gmail.com
The Tribune | Weekend | 23
Friday, November 15, 2019
history
Why tyranny could be the inevitable outcome of democracy THE CONVERSATION – Plato, one of the earliest thinkers and writers about democracy, predicted that letting people govern themselves would eventually lead the masses to support the rule of tyrants. When I tell my collegelevel philosophy students that in about 380 BC he asked “does not tyranny spring from democracy,” they’re sometimes surprised, thinking it’s a shocking connection. But looking at the modern political world, it seems much less far-fetched to me now. In democratic nations like Turkey, the UK, Hungary, Brazil and the US, anti-elite demagogues are riding a wave of populism fueled by nationalist pride. It is a sign that liberal constraints on democracy are weakening. To philosophers, the term “liberalism” means something different than it does in partisan US politics. Liberalism as a philosophy prioritizes the protection of individual rights, including freedom of thought, religion and lifestyle, against mass opinion and abuses of government power. What went wrong in Athens? In classical Athens, the birthplace of democracy, the democratic assembly was
an arena filled with rhetoric unconstrained by any commitment to facts or truth. So far, so familiar. Aristotle and his students had not yet formalised the basic concepts and principles of logic, so those who sought influence learned from sophists, teachers of rhetoric who focused on controlling the audience’s emotions rather than influencing their logical thinking. There lay the trap: Power belonged to anyone who could harness the collective will of the citizens directly by appealing to their emotions rather than using evidence and facts to change their minds. Manipulating people with fear In his “History of the Peloponnesian War,” the Greek historian Thucydides provides an example of how the Athenian statesman Pericles, who was elected democratically and not considered a tyrant, was nonetheless able to manipulate the Athenian citizenry: “Whenever he sensed that arrogance was making them more confident than the situation merited, he would say something to strike fear into their hearts; and when on the other hand he saw them fearful without good reason,
PLATO is widely considered the pivotal figure in the history of Ancient Greek and Western philosophy.
ATHENIAN politician Pericles delivering his famous funeral oration in front of the Assembly. he restored their confidence again. So it came about that what was in name a democracy was in practice government by the foremost man.” Misleading speech is the essential element of despots, because despots need the support of the people. Demagogues’ manipulation of the Athenian people left a legacy of instability, bloodshed and genocidal warfare, described in Thucydides’ history.
That record is why Socrates – before being sentenced to death by democratic vote – chastised the Athenian democracy for its elevation of popular opinion at the expense of truth. Greece’s bloody history is also why Plato associated democracy with tyranny in Book VIII of “The Republic.” It was a democracy without constraint against the worst impulses of the majority.
• This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. Read the original article here: http://theconversation.com.
Lawrence Torcello Rochester Institute of Technology
24 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019
literary lives
China Pearl Sir Christopher Ondaatje recalls the prolific career of the American writer and novelist who was the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature.
P
earl S Buck was born Pearl Sydenstricker on June 26, 1892 in Hillsboro, West Virginia, to Caroline Maude and Absalom Sydenstricker. They were Southern Presbyterian missionaries who had travelled to China almost immediately after they were married in 1880, but returned to the United States for Pearl’s birth. They went back to China when Pearl was five months old, first to Huai’an and then in 1896 to Zhenjiang (or Tsingkiang), near Nanking. In her memoir, “My Several Worlds: A Personal Record”, Pearl recalled her worlds, one a “small, clean, white Presbyterian world of my parents”, and the other the “big, loving merry not-too-clean Chinese world”. The Boxer Uprising (1899-1901) affected the family. Chinese friends deserted them and Western visitors decreased. Her father, remaining behind, sent his family to Shanghai for safety. Pearl was enrolled in Miss Jewell’s School in Shanghai, tutored by her mother in English, and the local Chinese dialect by her friends. She was taught classical Chinese by a Chinese scholar – Mr Kung. She read voraciously – especially the novels of Charles Dickens – which she attempted to read every year for the rest of her life.
PEARL Sydenstricker Buck (1892 – 1973) was also known by her Chinese name, In 1911, Pearl left China when she was 19 to attend the Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, Virginia, graduating in 1914. When she learned that her mother was seriously ill she returned to China, serving as a Presbyterian missionary from 1914 to 1932, resigning only because her religious views became at odds with the modernistic view of the Presbyterian Society. “The truth is always exciting. Speak it, then. Life is dull without it.” – Pearl S Buck By then she had married John Lossing Buck (May 30, 1917), an agricultural economic missionary. They
moved to Nanjing on the campus of the Univer- Sai Zhenzhu. sity of Nanking, where they both managed to get teaching positions. She taught English Literature at the church-run university, and in 1920 the Bucks had a daughter, Carol, who was diagnosed with phenylketonuria – a rare inherited disorder resulting in a build-up of the acid phenylalanine in the body. It causes seizures and behavioural problems – eventually leading to problems in the Buck’s marriage. The Bucks returned to the United States where she earned her master’s degree from Cornell University. The Bucks adopted a daughter, Janice, and returned to China in 1925
“The Good Earth” won the Pulitzer Prize in 1932. In 1938, Pearl Buck was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature “for her rich and truly epic descriptions of peasant life in China and for her biographical masterpieces”. for a very troublesome time which reached a climax in 1927, during the Nanking Incident with the capture of Nanking – the port, then capital of China – by the National Revolutionary Army. Both Nationalists and Communist soldiers participated in the rioting and looting. Terrified, the Buck family hid in a Chinese family hut until they were rescued by American gunboats. They travelled to Shanghai and then sailed for Japan where they stayed for a year before returning to China. “I love people, I love my family, my children ... but inside myself is a place where I live all alone and that’s where you renew your springs that never dry up.”
The Tribune | Weekend | 25
Friday, November 15, 2019
A STATUE of Pearl S Buck stands in front of the former residence at Nanjing University in China. Back in China in late 1927, in a lonely failing marriage, needing funds to support herself and her two daughters, Pearl concentrated on a career as a professional writer. In 1929 she travelled again to the United States to find long-term care for Carol, and while there Richard J Walsh, editor at John Day publishers in New York, accepted her novel “East Wind: West Wind” (1930). They began a relationship that would eventually result in a marriage that would last until his death. Returning to Nanking she retreated every morning to the attic of her university bungalow and, within a year, completed the manuscript for “The Good Earth” – also published by John Day in 1931. In 1934, Pearl left China, intending to return. Instead she resigned from the Presbyterian Board and stayed in America while her husband John Lossing Buck remained in China. “If you want to understand today, you have to search yesterday.” Pearl divorced her husband in Reno, Nevada in 1935 and married her publisher and editor Richard Walsh the same day. He was both her mentor and literary advisor throughout their life together in Pennsylvania until he died in 1960. “Through a long career she published more than 70 volumes of fiction,
BUCK with her daughter Carol
BUCK receives the Nobel Prize for Literature from King Gustav V of Sweden in the Stockholm Concert Hall in 1938. biography, and tales for children, but her heyday as an author was in the 1930s and 1940s, when she was seldom off the best-seller lists. Her second novel, “The Good Earth”, remains the book for which she is best remembered. Published in 1931, while modernism was turning fiction artfully on its ear, Pearl Buck’s simple, plot-driven tale of the shifting fortunes of Chinese peasants Wang Lung and O-lan was innovative in its own way marking the introduction of Asian characters into mainstream Western literature. In its pages, readers
witness the serenities of the ancient land being pulled into the confusions of the twentieth century.” – 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die, James Mustich A Pulitzer Prize winner, “The Good Earth” not only held its place on the best-seller lists for two years, but in 1937 was also turned into an Oscarwinning film. “Race prejudice is not only a shadow over the coloured, it is a shadow over all of us, and the shadow is darkest over those who feel it least and allow its evil effects to go on.” Pearl S Buck, as the preeminent American writer of Chinese village life, was denounced as an “American Cultural Imperialist” during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. She was repeatedly refused permission to return to her beloved China and thus was compelled to remain in the United States for the rest of her life. She died of lung cancer on March 6, 1973 in Danby, Vermont, and was interred in Green Hills Farm in Perkasie, Pennsylvania. Her grave marker is inscribed
with Chinese characters representing the name Pearl Sydenstricker. NEXT WEEK: A sensitively brilliant short story by an influential Italian writer • Sir Christopher Ondaatje is the author of The Last Colonial. He acknowledges that he has quoted liberally from Wikipedia and from 1,000 Books To Read Before You Die by James Mustich.
Hardback copies of Sir Christopher Ondaatje’s “Pro les in Literature” are now available for purchase for $20 from The Tribune of ces on Shirley Street.
27
Tidings, 22 Very small 9 amount of 10 Enid, 12 Tea, dessert (6)13 Blazers, 14 Era, 15 Rubs, Friday, November 24 Stole short17 tops, breaking Sceptre, 19 Timely, law (5)
26 | The Tribune | Weekend
Du t rHE mP i
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 Conceptis Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday
● The Target uses words in the main body of Chambers 21st Century Dictionary (1999 edition)
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 or verb forms ending in “s”. TODAY’S TARGET Good 16; very good 24; excellent 32 (or more). Solution tomorrow
call 0907 181 2585 for today’s target solution Yesterday’s *Calls cost 80p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge.
Sudoku Answer
BATTLESHIPS CRYPTIC PUZZLE Down 1 Royalty’s own touch of honour (8) 2 He’s not on speaking terms with his brothers (8) 3 Unusual way to serve meat (4) 5 An order to execute (5,7) 6 Show fond regard for the opposite sex (4) 7 An odd goal in Africa (6) 8 Offer the wrong type of inducement (6) 11 Confront the orchestra - or the critics (4,3,5) 15 Silver down at meltingpoint? (5) 16 What a debater takes to demolish an opponent (5) 18 Mummy’s nationality (8) 19 Exchange of repartee that will bear fruit (4,4) 21 Sort of tureen that is neither one thing nor another (6) 22 Free beer held up, but put down again (6) 26 The goddess of hate? (4) 27 Exploit that should be witnessed (4)
Across 1 Like a seabird behind the ship (6) 4 Recommend someone to take legal action (8) 9 Eric goes wild about the French girl (6) 10 Steps outside an upper window (8) 12 They may part with a smile (4) 13 We’re clean out of them (5) 14 Smart boy (4) 17 Released a big eruption it’s unpleasant (12) 20 Talk of the natives (6,6) 23 We’re breaking up the vessel (4) 24 So men are employed making signs (5) 25 Fight, probably rigged (4) 28 Case in which everyone is involved in the trial (3,5) 29 No rise for those more advanced in service (6) 30 I can read somehow in bright light (8) 31 A round heavy-bodied port (6)
1
2
3
4
9
5
6
7
8
18
19
10 11
12
13
14
15
16
17
20 21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Yesterday’s Easy Solution Across: 1 Chive, 4 Garland, 8 Lip, 9 Ultimatum, 10 Besiege, 11 Ready, 13 Evince, 15 Hebrew, 18 Wagon, 19 Example, 21 To the fore, 23 Lot, 24 Hygiene, 25 Taste. Down: 1 Calibre, 2 In passing, 3 Elude, 4 Gutted, 5 Remorse, 6 Act, 7 Dumpy, 12 Acropolis, 14 Concede, 16 Wrestle, 17 Before, 18 Watch, 20 Alert, 22 Tug.
Yesterday’s Cryptic Solution Across: 1 Lucid, 4 Perhaps, 8 Ova, 9 Free trade, 10 Sutures, 11 Hades, 13 Enrapt, 15 Stored, 18 Radio, 19 Leather, 21 Following, 23 Run, 24 Express, 25 Steve. Down: 1 Look-see, 2 Chartered, 3 Defer, 4 Please, 5 Ratchet, 6 Ada, 7 Steps, 12 Dark horse, 14 Propose, 16 Derange, 17 Allies, 18 Rifle, 20 Aegis, 22 Lap.
EASY PUZZLE
Across 1 Prestige (6) 4 Mythical strong man (8) 9 Intimation (6) 10 Afflicted (8) 12 Tense (4) 13 Disparage (5) 14 Tiny biting fly (4) 17 Stingy (12) 20 Basic runway (7,5) 23 Damage from use (4) 24 Haughty (5) 25 Blond (4) 28 An aromatic herb (8) 29 Pious (6) 30 Trusted followers (8) 31 Exultant (6)
Down 1 Disdain (8) 2 Class of things (8) 3 Every one (4) 5 Demanding too much (12) 6 Gaming counter (4) 7 Fondness (6) 8 Australian legislature (6) 11 Unsurpassed (6,2,4) 15 Concluding (5) 16 Over-elaborate (5) 18 An escape from prison (8) 19 Full of life (8) 21 To change (6) 22 Infertile (6) 26 Incautious (4) 27 Transaction (4)
FIND where the fleet of ships shown is hidden in the grid. The numbers to the right of and below the grid indicate how many of the squares in that row are filled in with ships or parts of ships. The ships do not touch each other, even diagonally. Some squares have been filled in to start you off. Solution tomorrow 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 2
B
2
C
1
D
4
E
1
F
3
G
1
H
4
I
1
J
1 4
2
1
1
1
1
4
2
1 x Battleship
3 x Destroyer
2 x cruiser
4 x submarine
1
B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
1 21
A
3
black squares: 5 20 Entrances. Down: 1 Interest, 27, 28, 29, 31, 35, 2 Main, 3 Mud, 4 Venezuela, Across: Naked, T TAR 5 Angler, 6 Loses, 8 Reassess, Invoked, Cod, Eft, TI 11 Dancer, 13 Brain, 16 Brie, 18 TBC. Baton, Jabot,32 From Down: Zygotic, H cAn you crack the Alphabeater? Each grid Extra letter clu TARgeT Odds, K number represents a letter – or black square. Viaducts, 0907 181 25 Atom AsAPPReHeND in Alphapuzzle,aped everyappend letter of the alphabet Expediting, (Deduct three minute each extra clue letter is used. But you have to complete the grid too! APPREHEND daphne dapper deep use the given lettershappen and black squaresharp below CRoSS full Doub solution drape endpaper happened theharped grid toheap start.heaped the gridnape is ‘rotationally 0907SHAWL 181 25 napped Across: symmetrical’ – inneep otherpadre words,pander it lookspane the *Calls cost 80p per min napper neap Down: GLOVEcomp your telephone same if you turn the page upside down. paper papered pard pare pared peahen network access cha Solution tomorrow pean pear peed peen peep peer pend SuMMiT uP prep 39 rape 39 rapped reap reaped A preen 24 10 32 22 27 19 1 67 14 and 26 1003
THE ALPHABEATER
TARGET 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.
THe ALPHA
15, 2019
25 19 11 25 35 16 22 18 38 3
28 33
33 1
11 23
33 39 27 4
30 35 32 2
14
28 37 26 12 39 29 12 36 1
18 5 3
24 30 19 22 25 23 16 2
6
38 27 38 17 7
23 10 40 39 31
33 1
4
1
16
39 2
14 28 33 29 12 37 39 16 6
31 6
24 14 27 14 34 15 34 3 6 26 Yesterday’s
21 26 7 38 6 20 11Answer 12 18Kakuro
1
3
3
25 34 17 11 6
21 17 2
6
36 15 1
26 6
37 8
40 21 26 18 3
31 7
33 1
3
26 24 28 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30 31
Y
11
12
■ 32 C■
28 40 14
20 10 35 19
7
10 6
■
6
1
21 37 27 31
13 1
13
14
15
16
17
18
33
34 35
36
37
38 3
F
1
● Alternatively, for six Extra Letter clues to your mobile, text DXBEAT to 84901. Texts cost £1 plus your usual operator ra
WORD BUILDER Answer the clues so that each word contains the same letters as the previous word, plus or minus one.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Solution tomor 1 Insect 2 Becomes sunburnt 3 Bear
4 Intimidates
5 Female relat 6 astound
7 edible kern
The Tribune | Weekend | 27
Friday, November 15, 2019
animals
Oh, what a night!
H
alf way through the day, Saturday past, the skies opened up and the most incredible tropical downpour flooded the streets of New Providence. We looked to the sky and murmured a chant to keep those clouds away from the western end of the island. The Old Fort Club is located on one of the most beautiful beaches around; the club itself is a old private house built in a majestic Spanish style, thick walls, covered porches and arches galore. The perfect setting for an elegant evening celebrating a very important birthday. A 1920 mobster and a moll sat behind the ticket table welcoming the glittering selection of fringed, diamond-studded, feathered and glamorous ladies accompanied by a backdrop of dapper gentlemen in straw boaters, white dinner jackets, white tie and tails, all befitting the honour of escorting these magical dames of the 1920s. The Bahamas Humane Society is 95 years old this year and we organised a stellar and elegant event at the Old Fort Bay Club for this grand old lady of the Bahamian charities. The BHS was born in 1924 so it only seemed fitting to have the guests come dressed as as they did in the era that we became a charity. How interesting that in a country that places so little importance on animal life that the animal charity is the oldest of them all. It strikes me as truly ironic! The ticket price was high and the menu was era-appropriate with foods that made up an elegant offering for the supporters who wanted to enjoy a night of old-time elegance. We were so delighted to have sold out and have a full
Animal matters | KIM ARANHA
ANN MARIE DAVIS, Bahamas Humane Society treasurer, with BHS vets Dr Issa Hansen and Dr.Tanya Chase.
DR Val Grant and Felena Burrows
KAREEM Mortimer and Jonathon Morris
house, and even more thrilled how almost every guest joined in the fun and got dressed up in costume. The enthusiasm with which the outfits were prepared was absolutely amazing. At one point the event could have been mistaken for the set of a period movie set in the Roaring Twenties. The banquet room was decorated very stylishly by the creative team from Wildflowers – black table cloths with red and silver napkins, and amazing red roses that were so dark in colour that they almost appeared to be tinged with black. They were set up on delicate towers in the centre of the table. Candle light flickered and soft music played as the guests took their seats. Adrian D’Aguilar, musician supreme, brought together a group of musicians who played just the right music to set the scene. Among them the hugely talented Stazzi Appleyard, a beautiful performer with a fabulous voice. It would be impossible to list all the people and businesses who donated prizes to us for the raffle and silent auction, we would need more space than this weekly article is entitled to. Suffice to say that, once again the community stepped up and were incredibly generous and the reception that the prizes received was encouraging. It was reassuring that so many people out there do care. These last few months have been a real test
for the BHS and sometimes we felt that we were being stretched to our utmost limits. Lately, the number of dogs and puppies that are brought to our shelter daily is disheartening; you feel that it is a never-ending stream. We had considered postponing this party as many other event organisers have theirs, but decided to not do, but to make it memorable, and a happy celebratory event acknowledging the oldest charity with the dignity it deserves. It may not always be elegant volunteering at our shelter, and you might be grubby and sweaty when you are done, but if you take a moment to look at the faces of the animals you realise that in place of glamour there is the irreplaceable gift of unconditional love. Those eyes speak to you and each wag of their tails or purr thanks you a million times over. We realised that these animals need the help now, so we would still hold our party and it would be beautiful, and elegant‌a party evoking perhaps one of the most glamorous eras of modern history, the era that introduced shorter skirts for the ladies, the bob hairstyle, fringes, baggy trousers, and stunning young women who called themselves flappers. These are the woman who paved the way for us, who fought for the right to vote, to be equal. These are the same women who fight for animal rights and demand more enforcement against animal cruelty. Last Saturday we celebrated all these strong and brave women and their male counterparts who have made the BHS what it is today. The event was a huge success, we are incredible grateful for the incredible support and generosity we received..
28 | The Tribune | Weekend
Friday, November 15, 2019