events festivals music puzzles history art
ADVENTURES IN THE ARTS
Festive Magic
Fundraiser brings families, friends and vendors together for a bright start to the holidays festivals, pages 10 & 11
By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
IT is not every day you see a jitney that looks ready to rush straight into a parade, but Junkanoo Jitney makes that magic possible. Part classroom, part cultural adventure, and entirely Bahamian, the project is rolling a centuries-old tradition directly into the hands of the next generation.
For Bahamian and cultural enthusiast Rhondi Treco, the journey began nearly eight years ago when she sat down with some of the country’s most iconic Junkanoo creatives.
“These iconic Junkanoo creatives were searching for new, sustainable ways to fund their groups. At the same time, I had a strong desire to pass on the legacy of Junkanoo and share everything I have learned over my 30 years in the culture,” said Rhondi in an interview with Tribune Weekend.
That conversation sparked a vision she could see as clearly as if it were already built. “Almost instantly, I saw it in my mind; a colourful, vibrant Junkanoo Jitney, wrapped in the textures, patterns, and spirit of the festival. It felt catchy, innovative, and uniquely Bahamian. I could literally see the bus rushing through the streets,” she said.
With creative support from Sign Island and design artist Jason Taylor, the concept moved from imagination to reality. Funding from the TDC Pitch Program allowed her to complete the wrap, and CP Louis Transit helped guide the execution.
“Once the design was done, I built the program structure, developed the website, and partnered with a school to test the concept. The response was immediate, and Junkanoo Jitney generated curiosity, excitement, and community support,” said Ms Treco.
Momentum continued when she won an additional grant from The Fox Foundation, which pushed marketing efforts into full swing.
As the programme developed, Ms Treco realised Junkanoo Jitney was closing a cultural gap many young Bahamians
Where Junkanoo meets the open road
never had the chance to cross.
“Even though I grew up in a Junkanoo-rich family, I quickly realised that many Bahamians do not have that same firsthand exposure. I also recognised that Junkanoo extends far beyond Bay Street; into craft, design, entrepreneurship, and artistic expression,” she said.
Ms Treco added that the programme helps spotlight students who may not excel in traditional academics but shine brightly in creative environments.
“Programmes like Junkanoo Jitney ignite confidence, reveal hidden talents, and show real pathways to earning and expressing themselves through culture. By taking students into a
working Junkanoo shack where they learn real techniques and craftsmanship, we are closing a gap that has existed for far too long, the gap between cultural appreciation and cultural participation,” she said.
The initiative also naturally introduces students to STEAMbased learning. “When students step outside the classroom and experience learning in real time, everything becomes more meaningful. Junkanoo is a perfect example of how Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics work together,” she said.
Ms Treco said mathematics appears in costume proportions, engineering in structure
jitney rushes through town, it should remind everyone that this culture belongs to all of us. It is about community, connection, and continuity,” she said.
Moving forward, Ms Treco’s ambitions are expansive. In the next five years, she wants Junkanoo Jitney to expand to more islands and to offer full workshops where children learn costume creation from start to finish.
“This is truly a ‘Junkanoo Journey’ for me, and I am excited to continue revealing how far this vision can grow,” she said. The Junkanoo Jitney Founder also hopes to expand the fleet to include buses tailored to the tourism market, giving visitors an immersive Junkanoo experience that goes beyond the parade.
She also spoke candidly about what the project means to her as a Bahamian woman in culture.
and reinforcement, and physics in rod placement for stability.
“Technology is also playing a bigger role. Computer-generated designs now provide precision and consistency, especially for groups where multiple costumes must match. And at the heart of it all is Art; the storytelling, colour, movement, and identity that define Junkanoo,” she said.
Student responses have been overwhelmingly positive.
“Schools that participate often return with more classes, and our Public-School Sponsorship Initiative in partnership with the Ministry of Education continues to grow. In January 2025, we hosted 25 Ministry of Education representatives for the full programme, and their response was extremely positive,” said Ms Treco.
She said corporate donors have since come forward to help widen access for public-school students, and the programme’s social media channels continue to grow with curiosity and excitement.
For Ms Treco, watching the Jitney rush through the streets is emotional. “I want people to feel invited. I want them to see the Jitney and think; I want to be a part of that. Junkanoo is a labour of love; it lives in our hands, our hearts, and our history. When the
“As a Bahamian woman who has spent my entire life in the entertainment industry, this project means everything. For many years, the decision-making tables in entertainment were dominated by men. Today, I am proud to stand alongside female creatives like Miquelle SwannNairn, Kevanna Hall-Percentie, and Zerline Lockhart,” said Ms Treco. Junkanoo Jitney, she said, feels like a personal contribution to the future of the culture. It affirms who she is, where she comes from, and what she hopes to leave behind.
Support from the Junkanoo community has been strong. “Builders and volunteers warmly share their knowledge during tours, offering live demonstrations. No two visits are the same, students learn something new each time,” she said.
With the help of her dedicated team, including Ricardo Treco, Phillip Hubbard Cooper, Minarda Thompson, Onike Archer, and Ricardo Smith, Ms Treco said they are ready to share the secrets of the shack and the street with the entire nation.
She closes with an invitation that feels as bright as the Jitney itself. “At Junkanoo Jitney, we want to take everyone on a true Junkanoo Journey, from the Shack to the Street. Let us go rushing through the town,” said Ms Treco.
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
ADVENTURES
in the Arts is celebrating a major milestone this season - ten years of inspiring, educating, and empowering young Bahamians through the power of creativity.
This season, Adventures in the Arts returns with Christmas Edition II, which runs until November 29 at Christ Community Church.
The event opened yesterday with a field trip matinees for schools and evening performances for the general public. The organisation will host its Christmas Giving Celebration - an edutainment showcase followed by a gourmet reception. First Lady Ann-Marie Davis serves as patron of the event.
This year’s cast features world-class performers from American Ballet Theatre (New York), I Musici (Montreal), and Dallas Opera (Texas). A second public showcase is scheduled for tomorrow at 7.30pm.
What began in 2016 as a modest idea formed by a graduate student overseas has evolved into one of the country’s most dynamic arts education organisations, blending edutainment – content designed to educate - community outreach, and cultural development.
The vision came from Bahamian pianist Dr Dion Cunningham, who, while studying abroad, found himself confronting both a personal challenge and a creative opportunity. Originally launched as Adventures in Western Art Music, the project was intended to introduce children and young people to genres of music rarely explored in the Bahamian context. But it was also born from a very real financial need.
“Adventures in Western Art Music was to be my answer for financing my studies,” he said. “Before 2016, I periodically gave piano recitals to raise funds. But by the halfway point of my programme, only a faithful few were attending.
events
“Adventures in the Arts” marks a decade of transforming young lives
As the monthly demands from the university increased, I knew I needed a fresh approach if I were to complete my degree. That is when I imagined a new kind of musical experience - one designed specifically to excite children and youth. I figured that if the kids were enthusiastic, their parents would follow,” he said.
The first series of concerts attracted more than 200 students from schools across New Providence. And although the $8 ticket price was not enough
to cover tuition, something far more meaningful was happening: children were connecting deeply with the music and the stories behind figures like Ludwig van Beethoven and Thomas “Fats” Waller. They even found inspiration in the soundtracks of video games and films.
“I realised that I was planting a seed in the hearts and minds of young people,” Dr Cunningham said. “Their excitement showed me that this work was changing how they thought
Yet Adventures in the Arts is not merely a performance platform. Education remains at its core. In its anniversary year, the organisation extended its reach beyond New Providence, offering piano and vocal workshops on Cat Island and North Eleuthera. In Eleuthera, it also staged its first edutainment showcase outside of Nassau. Plans are already being shaped to reach more communities, including central Abaco and North and Central Andros.
about music - and even how they thought about themselves and their place in the world.”
That revelation was enough to encourage him to continue, year after year.
A decade later, that seed has since flourished.
Adventures in the Arts is now a multidisciplinary creative ecosystem, reaching far beyond classical music. Today, its annual edutainment showcases feature a range of artistic expressions including dance, drama, vocal arts, visual art, digital art, film, and even culinary arts. The organisation collaborates with top-tier talent from around the world, including Dance Theatre of Harlem (New York), Collage Dance Collective (Memphis), and the National Dance Company of The Bahamas - touching more than 3,000 children and young people through its school matinee experiences.
“Our family islands are often left out of conversations about artistic development,” Dr Cunningham said. “The National Arts Festival is doing an incredible job of discovering diamonds in the rough. But there must also be those willing to nurture that talent. Our camps in Cat Island and Eleuthera, and our showcase there, were a powerful beginning. We’re excited to return - and even more excited to expand. There is a great artistic harvest waiting for those who are willing and able to serve.”
“Many organisations support these communities through mass donations, especially at Christmas,” Dr Cunningham explained. “But we’ve found that what these children need most is an improved sense of self-worth. The arts help lay the foundation for identity and confidence. They also need to feel part of the wider community. That’s why they’re always invited to our public edutainment events free of charge, where they can experience various art forms and hear personal stories about how the arts transformed our own lives. For those in Simpson Penn and Willie Mae Pratt, we take the experience to them.”
Tickets for the Christmas Giving Celebration and the Saturday showcase are available at Custom Computers, Logos Bookstore, and Christ Community Church - the host venue. Members of the public may also reserve seats by contacting adventuresinthearts@outlook. com.
Patrice
Smith
Patrice Smith
has spent a life in ministry and is passionate about
uplifting women.
She tells Cara Hunt about the Esther Ball- an elegant event designed to honour Bahamian women who make a difference
IN THE Bible, Queen Esther is said to have been a woman of great virtue, courage faith and selflessness.
The young queen saved her people from genocide when she dared to ask her husband the king to spare their lives.
For Patrice Smith, the story served as the inspiration to celebrate Bahamian women who have demonstrated similar qualities as the biblical queen at an annual Black tie ball.
The minister has demonstrated her own selfishness and ministry throughout her life.
“ I would say that I started my life in ministry about 50 years ago,” she told Tribune Weekend.
“At the age of seven, I was singing at the National Convention for my church, The Church of God of Prophecy, in front of hundreds of people. That was a form of ministry - giving back and I have been in ministry ever since.”
She and husband Dion Smith founded Kingdom Explosion Ministry more than two decades ago and over that time she has continued to minister through song, prophetic teaching, philanthropy and community outreach. She is also a marriage officer and justice of the peace.
“Ministry is a calling I was called to do this and I am very passionate about what I do, ministry is all about helping people to fulfill their own purpose and doing what you are good at for God and to advance the kingdom,” she said.
Seven years ago, she got what she says was a direct order from God to ‘honour his women in grand style.’
“I am a creature of the kingdom,” she said. “I do what I am told to do. It was seven years ago and I remember this so vividly, I was
fasting and meditating, and God told me ‘honour my women.’
“He gave me the blue print for how I was to achieve this by holding a grand ball.”
What he didn’t necessarily tell her, was how she would pay for it all.
However, she drew on her faith and was able to pull off the first Esther Ball and the event has grown by leaps and bounds ever since thanks to a number of sponsors.
“It was such a success and it continues to be a success, it is always very well attended,” she said. “It is a Kingdom Ball and so we go all out to ensure that the evening is filled with elegance and extravagance.”
The highlight of each ball is honouring the ‘Esthers’. Like their biblical namesakes, these are women who have made significant contributions in the areas of their church, their community and their country.
The honourees are selected every year by the ball committee.
“We have dozens of entries each year and each person who nominates someone has to write an essay explaining why they think they should be given the honouree,” she added. “We try to cap the honorees for each ball under 25- because we want to be able to properly honour each one.”
“And then at the end of the evening, we have the crowning of our Top Esther. Last year it was Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings.”
Ms Smith also noted that they also invite a prominent Bahamian woman to deliver the keynote address - this year it will be Education Minister Glenys Hanna- Martin.
“We like to invite women in prominence, women who have
broken the glass ceiling in their careers because we want to have our honorees and the persons in attendance to see another queen. The key note speaker inspires everyone to accomplish great things as well.”
Ms Smith explained that they have done things slightly different this year in honoree of the balls seventh anniversary.
“Rather than open up the nomination process, this year the ball committee has selected the 15 honouress for this year’s ball.”
The honourees are Charlotte Green, Shamarla Hunter, Barbara Evans, Lavonia Burrows, Roseann Christie, Gail Bowleg Mckenzie, Shantel Accilien, Violet Thompson, Ericka Rolle- Brown, Dorothy Newbold, Clementine Petty, Enid Armbrister, Patrice Newbold, Ordette Wells -Simms Shandy Newbold
The Esther ball committee also seeks to serve the community throughout the year as well.
Yesterday they provided a full Thanksgiving meal to 25 persons living in a local shelter.
“We also want to show young ladies excellence in action to inspire them. Last year we invited several at risk ladies to attend the ball and this year we will continue that tradition. We have a sponsor who is providing everything 5 young ladies from urban areas to attend, from the dress to the hair and the makeup. They are our princesses and they will be attending the ball in grand style.
This year’s Esther Ball will be held on December 5 at the Baha Mar resort. There will be a specially recorded red carpet arrival at 7.30 before the main event begins at 8.
Interested persons can call 428-4281 for further information.
interview
November 28
1919 Lady Astor became the first woman to sit in the British House of Commons.
1961 Football player Ernie Davis of Syracuse University became the first African American to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy.
November 29
1929 American pioneer aviator Richard E Byrd flew over the South Pole.
1963 US President Lyndon B Johnson
appointed the Warren Commission to investigate the assassination of John F Kennedy.
November 30
1966 Barbados achieved its full independence from Britain
1982 American singer and songwriter Michael Jackson released Thriller, which became the best-selling album in the world and won a record-setting eight Grammy Awards.
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.
section
Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday
music
Hope Fest 2025
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
FOR nearly four decades, Great Commission Ministries has been a steady anchor for some of the country’s most vulnerable families. Every day, the team prepares hot meals for its feeding programme, packs grocery parcels, and delivers food to the elderly and disabled. Shelters open their doors to men, women, and children who have nowhere else to turn, while those battling substance abuse find structured support and compassionate guidance. On Saturday mornings, children gather for a club filled with lessons, crafts, and a free lunch.
Now after 38 years of serving the community, Great Commission Ministries, founded by Bishop Walter S Hanchell, is preparing to celebrate its mission on a grander scale through Hope Fest 2025, a full-fledged Christmas festival designed to bring families together while sustaining the organisation’s year-round outreach. Set for December 6 at Collins House, Hope Fest will be more than just a fundraiser. It is a community celebration - an explosion of music, food, culture, and holiday cheer.
According to Dr Tamalia Gibson, executive director of Great Commission, “every ticket purchased, every ride enjoyed, directly strengthens our ability to meet urgent needs in our community. Hope Fest will help sustain our feeding programmes, shelters, youth services, and our support for the elderly and vulnerable.”
The event takes place from 1pm-10pm.
The festival’s entertainment lineup already makes it one of the most anticipated family events of the season. A Junkanoo rushout by Colours will
set the tone, followed by performances from some of The Bahamas’ top entertainers. The Royal Bahamas Defense Force
Marching Band will also perform.
In the old school segment hosted by D Mac, guests will enjoy MnM Band and Adrianna Munnings. A Bahamian music showcase hosted by Bodine brings together Da Pond Band, Sweet Emily, D Mac, Geno D, Blaudy, AMBASSAH Band, and the UB Goombay Ensemble. For gospel lovers,
Gandhi Pinder will lead a spirited segment featuring Bishop Lawrence Rolle, Kenyatta Taylor, Davian Chase, Eman, Solo, Monty Sweat, and others. Throughout the day, the sounds of Christmas, Junkanoo, and live Bahamian music will fill the gardens, creating the kind of festive warmth only The Bahamas can deliver.
Children will have their own wonderland of rides and kid-friendly activities, while adults enjoy shopping, dining, and lounging beneath the Christmas lights. “The holiday season can be incredibly busy,” Dr Gibson said. “Hope Fest gives families a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy something meaningful together. And it’s a beautiful way to teach children about giving back while they are having fun.”
A major part of that fun will come from the festival’s vendor marketplace - an eclectic holiday bazaar designed to feel warm, lively, and stressfree. Food vendors will serve Mexican, Bahamian, and Jamaican dishes, along with desserts and speciality drinks. Shoppers will browse handmade crafts, Christmas décor, beauty and body-care products, accessories, clothing, and unique gift items.
“It’s the perfect place to complete your Christmas shopping. And every
vendor fee helps support our outreach while allowing small Bahamian businesses to shine,” Dr Gibson told Tribune Weekend.
Choosing Collins House as the venue was also intentional. Its central location at Collins Avenue and Shirley Street makes it easily accessible, but it is the sweeping, historic grounds that make it ideal for a family festival.
“We wanted a venue that was secure, spacious, centrally located, and aesthetically beautiful - and Collins House checked every box,” Dr Gibson said.
On festival day, the grounds will be transformed with Christmas lights, festive installations, vendor lanes, music zones, and dedicated children’s areas. Professional parking attendants and on-site police officers will help ensure a smooth, safe experience for all. Families are strongly encouraged to arrive early - the first 50 children will receive one free ride.
“Hope Fest is more than a festival- it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and the spirit of Christmas,” Dr Gibson said. Tickets are available at www.gcmbahamas.com or at the gate: $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under.
GENO D
ADRIANNA Munnings
BLAUDY
MONTY Sweat
KENYATTA Taylor
SWEET Emily
MNM Band
BISHOP Lawrence Rolle D-MAC
DAVIAN Chase
Allan Wallace
It was an honour and a pleasure to be a part of such a groundbreaking show.
The RF Bank &Trust, partnering with The Ministry of Education & Technical & Vocational Training, Bahamas, for goodwill will always be something I'm here for. The show being curated by Jason Taylor and Kishan Monroe, two artists I have love and a lot of respect for, was the icing on the cake.
I think it’s a responsibility of all artists to use their gifts not only to support themselves and their families but also to help out the less fortunate and push
INSIDE PAST FORWARD:
What drew me to Past Forward initially was being invited by co-curator Kishan Munroe. Knowing his reputation and dedication to the creative community, I knew if he had a hand in it, that it was something exceptional. The other element of partnership, collaboration, scholarship, etc., was all icing on the cake.
RF Bank and Trust’s investment in this project should not be downplayed. It’s always a wonderful thing
An exhibition brought to life through the voices and visions of the artists who reinterpret Bahamian heritage.
good community initiatives. The generation of artists that came before us paved the way, making it possible for me to meet most of the amazing artists in this show decades ago. The work I’ve done over the years and continue to do is the result of God’s Blessings and hard work. Also, groups like The RF Bank seeing the value in helping young artists with support that help make their dreams come to reality.
The theme Past Forward resonates with me. To interpret it is to recognise how the past is never fully behind us; it shapes the way we see the world, informs our identity, and influences the stories we choose to tell. For me, the theme evokes the idea of
rediscovery—reviving moments in history that may have been overlooked, forgotten, or misunderstood. It also reflects my own growth as an artist, as I revisit subjects that once felt distant and explore how they speak to who we are today. Hyperrealism is my chosen discipline, an art form that demands precision, patience, and emotional stamina. It’s not a widely practised genre because of the sheer intensity of work required— some pieces take up to 200 hours to reach the polished level I strive for. My process begins long before I pick up a pencil. Research is the foundation of my compositions. I read, study, and immerse myself in the history or culture I intend to portray. One example is my drawing “Na Baha Cacique Guaiba,” inspired by the journal of Christopher Columbus. After learning more about the early encounters between Europeans and the Indigenous peoples of these islands, I felt compelled to give visual life to a young Taíno girl in 1492—an individual upon the arrival to Guanahani the admiral saw amongst the gathering natives along the shoreline according to his journal. The title, reconstructed from the Arawak language, means “I saw the foreign chief,” a simple yet powerful phrase that captures a moment that changed the trajectory of the entire region. This method—research, reflection, and artistic reconstruction—is
a pattern that guides much of my work, whether I’m exploring themes related to the British monarchy, Alkebulan (Africa), or the ancestral narratives of the Caribbean.
The Past Forward exhibition itself was an exceptional experience. The organisers and the entire team deserve immense credit for the care and vision they brought to the event. The room was alive with curiosity, thoughtful conversations, and genuine engagement—the kind of atmosphere that fuels artists and reminds us why we create. What made the exhibition even more meaningful was its purpose: proceeds are allocated to scholarships for aspiring art students. Knowing that our work contributes to new opportunities for the next generation of creatives was a significant factor in my decision to participate. It felt like contributing to a cycle of inspiration—honouring the past, standing in the present, and investing in the future.
I also want to acknowledge the incredible talent of the other artists featured in the show. Each brought a unique narrative and interpretation of the theme, and their presence elevated the exhibition into something truly memorable. I am honoured to have shared that space with them and grateful for the conversations and connections that emerged throughout the event.
Jason Taylor
As a creator, I am energised not only by making art but also by collaborating with fellow Bahamian artists. Our shared passion forms a vital tapestry of voices that documents who we are as a people—our struggles, our triumphs, our heritage, and our dreams. I believe deeply that creatives serve as custodians of cultural memory. Through our varied disciplines, we preserve history, provoke dialogue, and shed light on the emotional landscape that shapes our society. This conviction was central to my role as co-curator of “Past Forward,” an exhibition designed to honour where we have come from while imagining what lies ahead.
“Past Forward” brings together artists whose perspectives, backgrounds, islands,
when private and corporate entities step forward and invest in the creative community, and this exhibition was no different. To not only invest in the creative community through active artists but also to invest in budding creatives is something to be commended. I also think the collaboration with the other artists is something that should be applauded. It’s always a beautiful experience when Bahamian artists from different mediums and different walks of life can stand side by side with each other, complement each other and genuinely want each other to succeed without any traces of ego, but instead have one goal in mind, and that’s success for each other. Viewing
and artistic practices are as diverse as the Bahamas itself. Each contributes a unique interpretation of our cultural identity, offering a layered, intergenerational portrait of our nation’s past, present, and future. The exhibition not only celebrates our creative legacy but also invests in the next generation of cultural visionaries through scholarship support for young art students. In curating this showcase, I hope to help create a space where Bahamian stories continue to flourish—where creativity builds bridges across time and where our collective imagination inspires the future. This unique endeavour would not be possible without the generous contribution from RF Bank and Trust. Their willingness to invest so many resources is a testament to the immense value they have placed on the efforts of the creative community from the past, present and future.
Lamaro Smith
I was excited to bring my digital and mixed media works to the show. I felt that the theme of the exhibit was fascinating and that it was a recognition of other modern/unconventional methods of creating in the Bahamian art space. The charitable aspect of the exhibit spoke to me. The arts need more funding, and you get creative when that support comes early in your career. I got the chance during the opening night to speak to a young creative who is hoping to make a career as an artist. I was pleased to help educate and provide insight to those creatives who desire to make art their career path.
I was grateful to be invited to showcase that was in the heart of the country. I'm hoping for more inclusion of other Bahamian artists from around the country. The art realm can be insular at times, extending the invite to a variety of creatives, I feel, is the best way to ensure Bahamian art thrives and evolves.
Kenford Stubbs
Kevin Cooper
By ALESHA CADET
Tribune Features Reporter
acadet@tribunemedia.net
THERE is a certain magic that settles over The Retreat whenever Jollification
weekend arrives; a kind of festive flutter that lets you know the holiday season has officially begun. This year, that feeling returned brighter than ever, filling the gardens with music, colour and the unmistakable joy that has made the Bahamas National Trust’s signature fundraiser a
Crowds rush back to Jollification magic
beloved tradition for more than three decades.
As always, the event brought together families, art lovers, foodies, children, friends and unexpected reunions. It was a weekend of browsing beautiful crafts, tasting Bahamian treats, supporting local vendors, and discovering pockets
of entertainment tucked around every corner of the grounds.
While walking through the event, I could not help but agree with many attendees I spoke to that this year’s Sunday session felt especially full of life. The crowd was thick, the atmosphere upbeat, and the energy contagious. Jollification is always a
must on my own calendar; it never disappoints. It is the kind of space where catching up with old friends happens naturally, where simple browsing turns into laughter, where networking mingles with nostalgia, and where families share good, clean fun in a festive garden setting.
Throughout the evening, visitors who had
made the event part of their yearly tradition shared what keeps them coming back.
One attendee, Maria, who was strolling hand in hand with her husband, said she adjusts her entire schedule to be present for Jollification, no matter which island she is on at the time. “I live between Nassau and the Family Islands, but I always make it my business to be in Nassau for Jollification. I have not missed it in recent years. The atmosphere is always so warm and fun; I just enjoy every area and the whole vibe,” she said with a smile.
For another visitor, Simone, this weekend offered a welcome return to tradition after the postponement of the Wine and Art Festival earlier this year. “I really missed being in this space. I came with a group of friends and it just felt good to be back out here enjoying something wholesome and familiar again. It is always a good time at the BNT events,” she shared. Families were also out in full force. At the bustling Jolly Land children’s section, a mother named Rochelle was catching her breath while keeping an
eye on little ones moving between games and activities. “My kids are having a blast. It is hectic for me because it is crowded and moving around with little ones can be really tough, but I am still happy we came. They are loving every moment,” she said.
Not far away, another attendee named Janae had just purchased an art piece crafted by a young vendor. “I saw this little boy, maybe seven or eight, selling his artwork with so much pride. I had to support him. He was so enthusiastic and confident. This is why I love Jollification; you discover things and people you would not see otherwise,” she said. Vendors echoed the excitement. One food vendor noted that Sunday’s turnout far exceeded expectations. “The crowd today was triple the size of Saturday. Both days were good, but today was something else. I sold out of everything. Jollification is always one of my favourite events to pop up at,” she said, clearly pleased.
Everywhere you turned there was music, whether from the main stage, a hidden speaker or a wandering performer. Adults enjoyed the cultural stalls and the beer garden, children revelled in games and pottery activities sponsored by Bluebird Juice and CasaBah Pottery Studio, and food lovers indulged in everything from waffles on a stick to handcrafted Bahamian treats.
Lynn Gape, special projects consultant at the BNT, said the joy of the weekend comes alive most clearly through the vendors’ passion. “I love seeing what they have created for the event; they are constantly creating and upgrading their products. Their excitement helps me get excited
festivals
about hosting the event,” she said.
She added that Jollification continues to be an important fundraiser for The Retreat Garden. “It is wonderful that so many people support this event, which allows us to keep this urban national park as a space for natural history education and activities for families throughout the year,” she said.
For Lynn, Jolly Land also remains one of the most charming parts of the experience. And, true to this year’s theme, she said the vendors themselves brought the sparkle. “Our Jollification vendors truly exemplified the inner sparkle; their cheerful enthusiasm and incredible crafts and cuisine express wonderful creativity and individuality,” she said.
As the sun set over The Retreat on Sunday, it was clear that Jollification had done what it always does best: create a place where community, creativity and holiday spirit meet in perfect harmony. People laughed, browsed, sipped, shopped and played; and as they left with bags in hand and music still ringing in their ears, you could feel that familiar warmth the event brings every year.
Now Open: The Silverfish by Cin
AS YOU walk into the Project Space Gallery on the first floor of the museum, you are immediately confronted by three snake-like forms crawling across the walls. Last Thursday, we opened a Project Space show titled The Silverfish, an installation of three straw sculptures by Cin — a contemporary artist working primarily in installation and figurative painting.
Curved and insect-like, the pieces creep playfully across the gallery, bringing the rich cultural history of Bahamian straw work into the museum space.
Cin’s intention for the work was to address the precarity of the straw industry, where so many workers and materials are undervalued and underpaid. She argues that the true worth of the work lies in the labour and skill of each straw artist. She also wanted to honour the genius of the straw artisans she encountered while learning to plait under her mentor, Rosemary Brice.
For this project, however, Cin sourced the plait from Judy and Sheila Pinder, both masters of the craft.
“I was introduced to Judy Pinder and her daughter, Sheila, through Deborah Strachan, the owner of Depre, which produces beautiful straw and other artisan work,” she explained.
“I wanted to consult my teacher, Rosemary Brice, about my idea of creating my sculpture, but she was unavailable. This led to me sharing my ideas with some of my more experienced straw-plaiting classmates and other artist friends for their thoughts on how to create a durable sculpture.
“My initial idea was to make the work out of plaster, but everyone kept telling me, ‘Why not just make it out of straw?’”
Cin’s decision to use straw meant she needed help — nearly 200 square feet of plait.
By Letitia Pratt
“By luck, I found my answer in the Mall at Marathon at Depre,” she said.
“I contacted Mrs Strachan, and she put me in touch with the Pinders. I’ve always appreciated that the straw community doesn’t ‘gatekeep’. Her sharing her contacts was a true blessing and played a major role in the success of the project.”
“I later met Mrs Pinder and Ms Sheila, and in true Long Island fashion, they were warm and welcoming. I shared my idea for the plaits, and they showed me the styles available at their studio. We stayed in close communication — even while I was overseas before the show — and they were incredibly supportive.
“While I was on the island, we also arranged for Mrs Pinder to offer private classes for people interested in straw work. This service is now available through the Airbnb platform and can also be arranged via my website, which is featured in the show.”
Cin used the plaits sourced from Judy and Sheila as the base for the larger sculptures, which she enlarged to resemble a silverfish scaled up to the length of a yard-long straw plait — a typical purchase from a plaiter.
Beyond its cultural references, The Silverfish offers a metaphorical reflection on the industry itself. The silverfish is a small insect known to feed on starches and fibres — including straw. By mimicking the creature’s curved form, with frayed ends resembling antennae, Cin suggests that “the silverfish” also symbolises customers who unknowingly consume the straw industry without offering proper return.
The straw industry has been integral to Bahamian culture since the early 1700s, yet despite its deep cultural significance, it remains difficult to sustain. Artisans often receive inadequate compensation for their expertise, and materials are
increasingly costly and scarce. As a result, the market has become flooded with inauthentic manufactured goods, a by-product of undervaluing both the makers and the material.
This is why it was important for Cin to acknowledge the plaiters she worked with and to highlight the creativity of these artists. Each of the wide, undulating structures incorporates different types of straw and plait styles, with the most diverse selection found in The Market, which uses plaits such as “Peas and Rice”, “Bahama Mama”, “Spider Plait” and “Jacob’s Ladder”. The dual-coloured patterns mimic the scales of the insect — an effect that becomes striking when seen crawling up the gallery wall. With this Project Space show, Cin hopes to honour the significance of the medium and inspire more support for an industry that carries so much cultural weight.
•The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas (NAGB) is a contemporary art museum dedicated to collecting and celebrating Bahamian art through exhibitions, public programmes, and community collaborations. NAGB is home to a diverse collection of Bahamian art that encourages self-exploration and discovery. Admission is free for residents of The Bahamas every Sunday. Get all the information for your next visit at nagb.org.bs/ admission.
Stay connected:
National Art Gallery of The Bahamas West and West Hill St, Nassau @ nationalartgallerybahamas
entertainment
What to stream this weekend
BONG JOON Ho’s “Mickey 17,” a new batch of “Stranger Things'” in its final season and Kevin Hart debuting a new comedy special on Netflix are some of the new television shows and films, headed to a device near you. Also among the streaming offerings worth your time this week, “Everybody Loves Raymond” gets a 30th anniversary special on CBS, the Hallmark's special “A Grand Ole Opry Christmas” with Brad Paisley and Mickey Guyton, and a new Beatles documentary series hits Disney+.
New movies to stream from Nov. 24-30
—Taiwanese filmmaker Shih-Ching Tsou, known for collaborating with and producing several Sean Baker films including “Tangerine” and “The Florida Project,” makes her solo directorial debut with “Left-Handed Girl,” about a single mother and her two daughters who return to Taipei to open a stand at a night market. Netflix acquired the film after it was warmly received during the Cannes Film Festival and Taiwan has already selected the film as its Oscar submission. It begins streaming on Netflix on November 28.
—Bong Joon Ho’s “Mickey 17” arrives on Prime Video on Thursday, November 26, for some dystopian holiday viewing. In her review for The Associated Press, Jocelyn Noveck praised Robert Pattinson’s performance (or, rather, performances) as an expendable who is constantly being reprinted anew. She writes, “It’s his movie, and he saves it from Bong’s tendencies to overstuff the proceedings. In an extremely physical, committed, even exhausting performance, Pattinson takes what could have been an unwieldy mess and makes it much less, well, expendable.”
—OK, “The Last Duel,” streaming on Hulu on Sunday, November 30 might be four years old but it’s a far better option than, say, “Flight Risk” (on HBO Max ). Ridley Scott’s medieval tale, written by Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Nicole Holofcener, is a brilliant spin on the historical epic told from three different perspectives, Damon’s Jean de Carrouges, Adam Driver’s Jacques Le Gris and Jodie Comer’s Marguerite. In his review for the AP, film writer Jake Coyle wrote that it “is more like a medieval tale deconstructed, piece by piece, until its heavily armored male characters and the genre’s mythologized nobility are unmasked."
— ’Tis the season for Hallmark holiday films. And for the country music fanatic, that means “A Grand Ole Opry Christmas.” The film follows a woman forced to confront her musical past and heritage in the esteemed venue – and there may or may not be some time travel and Christmas magic involved. Stay tuned for the all-star cameos: Brad Paisley, Megan Moroney, Mickey Guyton, Rhett Akins, Tigirlily Gold and more make an appearance. It starts streaming on Hallmark+ Sunday.
New series to stream from November 24-30
It's hard to believe that “Everybody Loves Raymond” has been off the air for two decades. The multi-camera sitcom starred Ray Romano and Patricia Heaton
as Ray and Debra Barone, a young married couple whose daily lives are interrupted regularly by Ray's meddling parents, played by Peter Boyle and Doris Roberts, who live across the street. CBS recently taped a 30th anniversary special to air Monday which will also stream on Paramount+. Hosted by Romano and creator, Phil Rosenthal, it recreates the set of the Barone living room and features interviews with cast members including Romano, Heaton, Brad Garrett and Monica Horan. There will also be a tribute to Boyle and Roberts who died in 2006 and 2016, respectively. It's fitting for the special to come out around the holidays because its Thanksgiving and Christmas episodes were top-notch. All nine seasons stream on both Paramount+ and Peacock.
— " Stranger Things” is finally back with its fifth and final season. Netflix is releasing
the sci-fi series in three parts and the first four episodes drop Wednesday. Millie Bobby Brown says fans will “lose their damn minds” with how it ends.
— Also Monday, Kevin Hart debuts a new comedy special on Netflix. It's called “Kevin Hart: Acting My Age.” The jokes center around, you guessed it, aging.
— A new “Family Guy” special on Hulu pokes fun at those holiday movies we all know, love and watch. It’s called “Disney’s Hulu’s Family Guy’s Hallmark Channel’s Lifetime’s Familiar Holiday Movie” and pokes fun at the commonly-used trope of a big city gal who ends up in a small town at Christmas and falls in love. It drops Friday, November 28 on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.
animals
A Heartfelt Farewell
By KIM ARANHA
WHEN Diesel passed over to the rainbow bridge on November 17, his earthly, human mum wrote on facebook “my heart is shattered” – she had lost her dog, her boy who was so important to her.
He was her canine soulmate and she had gone way more than an extra mile for and with him.
Diesel had been battling prostate cancer since July
It is always such a heart wrenching moment when the vet tells you that your beloved best friend is afflicted with cancer.
Almost always, all you can buy is time, a few more weeks or months giving them everything they want and storing up the cuddles for when they are gone. They chose to do everything they could.
When that awful day comes to say good bye, invariably the dog himself tells his beloved humans
that it is time. What we tend to forget is that dogs do not fear death as we do. They are accepting and at peace, a fact that can give us cause for thought and comfort. However for us, it is a physical pain that surpasses so many other pains.
Diesel had been in the middle of Laura’s universe for 12 wonderful years, and the two of them bonded like twins, even though one was dog and one wasn’t.
Diesel was a big 80 pound boy, He was most definitely a magnificent Royal Bahamian Potcake, with all the potcake characteristics, and considered the road near his house his personal domain and would bark at all those who ventured near. His strong personality shone through all the drama and posturing. For Laura he was just one great big baby.
Diesel was rescued as a puppy from a guy in Centerville and he ended up as one of the many puppies at the BHS looking for a home.
She lived in fear of this day because we knew it is going to come, they simply do not live long enough.
In my opinion there have been three dogs that in the past fifteen years have stood out like a beacon in the rescue worlds in Nassau.
One was my own beloved boy Chiefie who lived until he was 15 years old and battled cancer twice, he won round one, but lost round two. He was an exceptional dog, smart, loyal and brave, my heart broke when I finally had to admit he wasn’t going to make it and that I had to say good bye.
Roger was the second amazing rescue story. Lissa moved mountains to rehabilitate him after she found him in the rubble on a side street during the first Operation Potcake.
The owners “ didn’t want him.” After orthopedic surgery and many months of care he too turned into a mega superstar of a potcake, alas he also contracted cancer.
Now, it is sad to say, the third musketeer has succumbed to that evil cancer.
Laura fell for him on day one and made a deal with the shelter that if he didn’t get adopted she would give him a home and the rest is history.
Alas he contracted a very bad case of parvo when he was about 6 months old. He fought hard, and so did his vet team, and his human mum. Day after day they danced a dance of fragility agains death. Nobody was giving up, and finally Diesel pulled through, proving that miracles do take place, especially those seasoned with love.
The years that followed were good happy years for the two of them, Laura got married and he accepted and loved David. His girl was happy so was Diesel, and many a night he would climb into bed with them and fall asleep feeling safe and loved so very dearly. It was a love he returned to them a hundredfold.
He was her soul dog she wrote, “I have never felt more close to another being in my entire life and I loved him fiercely.”
Three magnificent potcakes, strong, barking loyal boys, so deeply loved, have left us over a few short years.
Last week, Laura drove Diesel to his vet, praying for a miracle. Those prayers are so desperate and furverent. One begs, pleads, makes bargains, open to any desperate suggestion that provides that unattainable wish.
She heard a song by Chris Stapleton - about his dog Maggie…
She modified the words “Run, Diesel, run With the heart of a rebel child Oh, run, Diesel, run Be just as free as you are wild I never knew me a better dog And I guess I never will”
To have been loved by a special dog is an amazing blessing, not everybody has that experience, but not everybody opens their heart to love their beloved dog back with the same passion and dedication.
I hope that Diesel was greeted by Chief and Roger, standing at St Francis’s side ready to show him around and fit his wings… God bless them.
Brandon and his sparkly Christmas outfit were a hit at Jollification this year. This handsome three-month-old potcake loves to socialise as well as to be snuggled, and didn't even mind that he'd been dressed for the festive season.
Brandon gets along well with the other pups, too, and would love a home with lots of people or pets around. He's young and smart and just wants to be loved. If you have a soft spot for Brandon, please come in to the Bahamas Humane Society to meet him or call 323-5138 for more information. Brandon looks forward to meeting you.
BHS raffle tickets are now available from the shelter, Fox Hill Nursery, and at tables at some of the Super Value stores. Our thanks to the raffle prize donors. The draw date will be Tuesday, December 30.
PHOTO of Brandon with BHS Board member Kath de Souza by Linda Gill-Aranha.
Baha Mar welcomes hundreds for the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation Celebrity Invitational
BAHA Mar proudly celebrated another extraordinary weekend of philanthropy, tourism impact, and community partnership as it hosted the third annual Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation Celebrity Invitational, welcoming more than 200 visitors to The Bahamas for the star-studded, three-day event.
This year’s Invitational not only raised an impressive $1 million for underserved youth across the United States but also delivered meaningful impact right here at home:
The Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation donated $50,000 to the Baha Mar Foundation, reinforcing its shared commitment to youth empowerment, community development, and creating opportunities for the next generation of Bahamians.
The weekend brought a wave of energy to the resort and local economy, with celebrities, athletes, and supporters flying in to participate in the festivities. Guests enjoyed the Celebrity-Amateur tournament at the Royal Blue Golf Course and a spectacular closing night at Jon Batiste’s Jazz Club filled with Bahamian hospitality, culture, and a special performance by global icons Boyz II Men.
Celebrity attendees included Anthony Anderson, Brett Young, Bode Miller, Roger Clemens, Wayne Gretzky, and others, all joining Mark Wahlberg in support of the cause.
“We are honored to welcome Mark, his team, and the more than 200 guests who traveled to The Bahamas specifically for this event,” said Graeme Davis, President of Baha Mar.
“The Foundation’s generous $50,000 donation to the Baha
Mar Foundation will have a direct and positive impact on youth and community programs locally. Partnerships like this allow us to uplift our communities while showcasing the warmth, hospitality, and beauty of our islands.”
The mission of the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation is to improve the quality of life
for inner city youth through a working partnership with other youth organizations. Established in May 2001 by Mark and Jim Wahlberg, the Foundation provides financial and community support to assist in making the dreams and ultimate potential of young people become a reality. Founder and president Mark Wahlberg said: “Baha Mar
continues to be an incredible partner. We’re thrilled that this year’s Invitational not only raised essential funds for youth across the U.S. but also contributed directly to the community here in The Bahamas. We look forward to growing this impact each year.”
Pete Falcone, Owner & CEO of JP Sports & Entertainment,
which manages the Invitational, also noted the exceptional partnership with the resort and local community.
“The Bahamas offers an unmatched experience for our guests, and we are proud to support both the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation and the Baha Mar Foundation through this year’s event,” Mr Falcone added.
THE second annual West End Bootleggers and Seafood Festival was held last week at Commissioner's Field in West End.
The event brought together locals and visitors for a day of local cuisine, specialty rum, and live cultural performances, local craft breweries and distilleries and a showcase of West End’s famed seafood dishes — all designed to immerse residents and visitors in the heritage of Grand Bahama.
Administrator for the West Grand Bahama District Local Government, Ricardo Ferguson Sr said hosting the event in West End felt both symbolic and strategic.
“West Grand Bahama is the capital, at least that’s what they always tell me. So why not host this here?” he remarked. “I’m happy it’s in West End because it provides an infusion into the community. And I’m especially pleased to see students involved, learning, participating, and being encouraged in the field of cookery.”
One highlight of the event was the Junior Chef Showcase which featured students from three local schools-
St George’s High School, Eight Mile Rock High School, and Sir Jack Hayward High School.
The students worked hard preparing unique dishes such as jaguar juice and Stew fish duff
St. George’s culinary instructor Lovinia McDiarmid teased the crowd with bold creations on the menu.
“As the Jaguars bring out Jaguar Juice, we’re creating something amazing with Johnny cake — something you’ve never seen or tasted before. And look out for our stew fish duff,” she said.
The event was attended the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation (MOTIA) General Manager/Grand Bahama Nuvolari Chotoosingh; Local Government representative Elizabeth Grant; MOTIA Event Coordinator Ava Andrew and others from the MOTIA Board.
The festival included a full line up of entertainment including Bahamian icon D-Mac.Sponsors for the event include Freeport Power, The View and the Local Government offices of West End and West Grand Bahama.
(BIS Photos/Danielle Rollon)
West End Bootleggers and Seafood Festival celebrates a successful second year
