Postponed two weeks from its original date because of inclement weather, the Rotary Club of Freeport's annual Past Presidents' Fun Run/Walk found an absolutely picture-perfect morning on Taino Beach Saturday, April 6. Enthusiastic participants from not only the island's various Rotary clubs but a number of local businesses inlcuding Ernst & Young and GB Power lined up for either a 3K or 5K run or walk. There was also a race for students. Additional photos soon on Facebook.
Race results: STUDENTS 3K Gold: Tiana Miller Silver: Jasmyn Jones
STUDENTS 5K Gold: Jaylen Moss (our youngest participant!)
MALES 3K RUN Gold: Othnyell Pinder Silver: Mike Stafford
MALES 3K WALK Gold: Troy McIntosh
MALES 5K RUN Gold: Vishwasa Joga Silver: Brian Cooper Bronze: Shridhara Kattadmoole
MALES 5K WALK Gold: Pedthro Thompson
FEMALE 3K RUN Gold: Razhena Arthur Silver: Rowena Martin Bronze: Christine Van Der Linde
FEMALE 5K RUN Gold: Lottie Strachan Silver: Lorine Miller Bronze: Vicki Stafford
Thanks to 242newsbahamas for recognizing the good work of our Rotarians re-planting the mangroves on the north side of Grand Bahama that are still recovering from the damage of Hurricane Dorian in 2019. Click HERE to view the post on Facebook
Past Rotary International President, Jennifer Jones, visits The Bahamas and sees first-hand the power of Rotarians on these islands and the projects that the Rotary Foundation funded which were so crucial following the passage of Hurricane Dorian in 2019.
Grand Bahama Rotary clubs are coming together to celebrate "Creating Hope in the World" and honour those who've given so much to our island community. The elegant, red carpet affair, will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Grand Lucayan Hotel on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Come celebrate an evening of charity with part proceeds going to the continuing disaster relief efforts. Tickets available from Rotary club members.
Grand Bahama Rotarians to celebrate "Creating Hope in the World" at annual ball
The Rotary Club of Freeport-sponsored Interact Club of Bishop Michael Eldon School in true "Warriors" fashion were able to complete their initiative to clothe all 16 boys and 16 girls at the Grand Bahama Children's Home with a week's worth of brand-new clothes in time for Christmas.
"Our BMES Interact Club not only got the gifts, they did a food drive and provided groceries as well," said Rotary Club President Chinello Sears. "It was really heart warming. In less than 2 months after starting, just the 30th October, 2023, they have outdone themselves.
"Hats off to our Youth Service Chair Past President Lorine Miller that was there every step of the way. Special thanks also to my staff at RGD and my Warriors class of 93 that joined our Club in making this possible. *Rotary the World Over*!"
Rotary's generous donor, TK Foundation, has funded another program to assist East End, Grand Bahama, residents who are still recovering from Hurricane Dorian.
Click HERE to view on YouTube if no display above.
VIDEO: Rotary continues to assist residents of East End, Grand Bahama
Peace and Love are some of the greatest forces on Earth. On Thursday, October 26th, 2023, the Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama, led by Area Governor Othyneil Pinder and a delegation of visiting Rotarians took the administration, faculty and staff of The Beacon School in a transformative Peace Building and Conflict Resolution session.
The workshop allowed for a platform of sharing in a judgement-free zone. The work of the team allowed for layers to be peeled back among the staff. Participants left with a greater understanding of each other as well as an appreciation for their individual backgrounds. The Rotary organization is credited with bringing about a positive change on the campus among the adult staff, which will undoubtedly trickle down to the students and the wider community – through the use of the Share America tools.
Peace and conflict resolution are fundamental aspects of creating stable societies and fostering positive relationships between individuals and communities. Peace, in its essence, signifies the absence of violence, discord, and hostility. It embodies a state of harmony and tranquility where people coexist peacefully, respecting one another’s rights, beliefs, and differences. Achieving peace requires open communication, empathy, and a willingness to understand diverse perspectives. It involves fostering mutual understanding and promoting social justice, equality, and human rights. These tenets were on full display during the session.
Conflict resolution, on the other hand, is the process of addressing disputes, disagreements, or clashes in a constructive manner. It involves identifying the root causes of conflicts, promoting dialogue, and finding peaceful solutions that address the concerns of all parties involved. Effective conflict resolution methods include negotiation, mediation, and arbitration, which aim to reconcile differences and restore harmony. By promoting peace and embracing conflict resolution strategies, societies can create an environment where individuals can thrive, collaborate, and contribute positively to their communities. The same was achieved through the work of the team.
Rotarians attend Peace Building Seminar at the Beacon School
Saturday, October 21st, was a beautiful night at the Hawksbill Yacht Club for the Rotary Club of Freeport's annual Wine & Cheese event, under the theme: The Perfect Pair.
A wide variety of wines from around the world were sampled, and paired, with delicious foods from local chefs. There was excellent music, great raffle prizes, a silent art auction and so much more.
But a picture is worth a thousand words, so click HERE to view the photo album.
Join us for an exciting evening enjoying delicious wines from around the world, rum tasting, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, entertainment and so much more at the Hawksbill Yacht Club on Saturday, October 21st. Beer on tap too for you non-wine lovers. Contact any Rotary Club of Freeport member for tickets. See you there!
Save the date: RCF Wine & Cheese event returns Oct. 21
Great job Team Rotary Club of Freeport! "Service above Self" supporting the Bernie Butler Open Water Swim awards ceremony this past Saturday, August 12th. Click HERE to view more on Facebook
Photos: RCF supports Bernie Butler Swim awards party
Rotary District Governor for 6990, Barbara Gobbi, visits East End of Grand Bahama looking at the work Rotary has accomplished over the last 4 years following Hurricane Dorian.
GB Rotary Disaster Relief Committee continues to assist the Grand Bahama Island community 4 years after Hurricane Dorian thanks to generous donor TK Foundation.
The Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation, commonly referred to as the Rotary Water Plant, is ready to assist Grand Bahamians during hurricane season 2023. ZNS News reports.
On the eve of Mother’s Day, five families that were displaced due to Hurricane Dorian in East Grand Bahama, were given the keys to their new homes built by the Grand Bahamian clubs of Rotary International. Margaret Leathen, with Rotary Area Governor for GB Clifford Bowe, cuts the ribbon to her rebuilt home. (Photo: Tristan Gibson)
On Saturday, April 1, 2023, Rotary Club of Freeport members traveled to McLean's Town in East Grand Bahama and boarded boats for the tiny island of Sweeting's Cay. The mission: to donate fire extinguishers and smoke alarms to every home. Rotarians are no strangers on the cay, having done extensive work there since the destruction of Hurricane Dorian in September, 2019.
Rotary is back, building 5 new homes in East End Grand Bahama thanks to the donor TK Foundation. After Hurricane Dorian, Rotary has built 19 homes, repaired over 1000 homes, repaired 120 boats, gave 60 engines to East End fishermen and more. Watch for updates as Team Sea Grape builds new homes to help hurricane victims.
Rotary’s motto is Service Above Self.
Click HERE to view on YouTube if no display above.
VIDEO: Rotary rebuilding more homes after Hurricane Dorian
Club members and friends came together at Out Da Sea on Saturday, March 18, for the eagerly-anticipated raffle prize drawing. Who was the lucky winner of the car?
Click HERE to view on YouTube if no display above.
In the cool of the early morning on March 18, 2023, score of Rotarians and friends took to the streets of the Taino Beach area for the annual Rotary Club of Freeport's Past Presidents Fun Run/Walk.
With 3K and 5K distances to choose from their was something for everyone to enjoy. And the reward for burning off those calories? Delicious souse and banana bread of course!
Under the presidency of Luther Burrows, the members of the Rotary Club of Freeport celebrated another year of existence in the Grand Bahama community this past January.
As part proceeds of our signature event, our Wine and Cheese, the members of the Rotary Club of Freeport came together this past weekend, after purchasing over $ 5,000 worth of groceries with one thing in mind and that was to assist our community and families in need. We gathered at the Leader Beverages (Rotary Warehouse), formed an assembly line and packaged 150 boxes of grocery items proudly referred to as BLESSINGS IN A BOX.
We started out early on Saturday morning, even though it was a rainy day and covered the entire island of Grand Bahama, from Sweetings Cay to West End, distributing boxes of goodies to families in need. The items ranged from rice, grits, can goods, oat meal, toilet tissue, washing detergent and dish washing liquid just to mention a few.
We were also pleased that during that time we were able to assist Burrows Home for the Aged as well as Home Away from Home in a small but tangible way. We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciate to the GB community with always assisting the Rotary Clubs. We can only do what we do because of the GB community.
Rotary Grand Bahama's Disaster Relief Committee lends a helping hand to a McLean's Town resident through their housing project. As a result, Joyce Russell, who was left homeless following Hurricane Dorian is now back in her home. Shayne Stubbs has more in this report.
Clayton Russell, (pictured right) Sands and Bahamian Brewery Assistant General Manager in Grand Bahama presented a check valued at One thousand five hundred dollars to Mike Stafford, (pictured left) Manager Grand Bahama Water Relief Foundation. "We are very thankful for the generous donation from the Bahamian Brewery," Stafford said. "This generous donation will help us in our maintenance and upkeep of supplies to continue to be ready, willing, and able to distribute fresh drinking water free of charge in the event that the natural supply is interrupted."
Photo: Hulan Davis, a recipient of the first Rotary house built on Sweeting’s Cay, recalls the trauma of Hurricane Dorian. (Photo: Vandyke Hepburn)
Sweeting's Cay has come a long way in three years since Hurricane Dorian, but more remains to be done before the community and people’s livelihood are fully restored. The school and the community clinic are still not open. Repairs to the public dock are still not finished and some homes and businesses need repairs.
September 1 will mark the third anniversary of Hurricane Dorian. And Sweeting’s Cay residents are hoping and praying that another storm does not come their way. During a visit to the cay this week, we saw some signs of progress. The vegetation has grown back, and even some mangroves are starting to regenerate on the shoreline. More residents have also returned to rebuild the island and resume their lives.
District 6990 Governor Michael Kesti and his wife, fellow Rotarian Maria Kesti, visited Grand Bahama August 12-16 and saw first-hand the many projects on the go on the island, including the Rotary water plant, new laundry trailer, the Beacon School and topped it off with a visit to Sweetings Cay. All the clubs came together for lunch on Monday, August 15, where Kesti praised Bahamians as extraordinary people and pledged to continue the district's support.
Click HERE to view on YouTube if no display above.
For 12 months after the ferocious Hurricane Dorian in 2019, Darren Cooper, a Sweetings Cay resident, lived in a tent.
“After Hurricane Dorian hit Sweetings Cay, I was left with nothing to my name,” Cooper said. “Everything I owned was gone, including my home and my boat.”
Now, thanks to the combined Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama, Cooper has a new home and a new engine for his boat.
“I give God thanks for bringing Rotary to Sweetings Cay,” he said.
The Rotary Club of Freeport celebrated 60 years of service to the Grand Bahama community with a celebration at Oceans Blue restaurant on Saturday, May 28th. Relive the many moments of the night, from the fellowship, toasts, speeches, induction of the incoming board with the passing gavel, energetic raffle, music and dancing.
Click HERE to view on YouTube if no display above.
VIDEO: Livestreaming the 60th anniversary celebration
More than 60 participants, of all ages and from all walks of life, gathered on a slightly cool morning at Taino Beach on Saturday, April 9th, for the Rotary Club of Freeport's annual Past Presidents' Fun Run/Walk. New this year were a choice of distance: 3K or 5K and a spirit of competition among the runners with medals awarded to the top three males, females and students.
*5K Males Medal Winners* 1st Place: Clifford Bowe #010 2nd Place: Sean Thompson #020 3rd Place: Darren Cooper #017
*5K Females Medal Winners* 1st Place: Lorine Miller #035 2nd Place: Therisetta Vietti #039 3rd Place: Smobia Moreau #042
*Student Medal Winners* 1st Place: Chanyah Thompson #037 student of Jack Hayward High School. 2nd Place: Brooklyn Thompson #005 Wilbur S. Outten Academy 3rd Place: Nairah Rahming #018
For some, the incentive to get to the finish line quickly was the delicious chicken souse and banana bread waiting. Participants also went home with a gift bag of an RCF water bottle and an orange. In addition, a team from Grand Bahama Health Services was on-hand to offer complimentary glucose testing and health screenings. Click HERE to view the photo album.
Last October 23rd, a flurry of e-mail back-and-forth touched off an effort to transport 25 wheelchairs to the island of Grand Bahama. Stephen Gunn, from the Rotary Club of Freeport, had received requests for wheelchairs for individuals and families impacted by the devastation wrought by Hurricane Dorian in September of 2019.
Efforts had been put forth to supply hundreds of wheelchairs, but the process, from funding to actually getting a container of wheelchairs to Grand Bahama, would take months - if not half the year.
Click HERE to read the full article in the Wheelchair Foundation newsletter. The article is on page 10 but we are including the complete newsletter because it is all worth reading!
Rotary Club of Freeport wheelchair project makes Wheelchair Foundation newsletter
Phase two of the Sweeting’s Cay Home Repair Project is underway to repair 14 homes damaged during Hurricane Dorian two years ago. The project — which is being spearheaded by the Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama, in partnership with TK Foundation — is expected to be completed over the next five to six weeks.
Phase one of the project was completed last week when nine newly built homes were turned over to residents on the cay. The first phase was funded at a cost of nearly $600,000 by the TK Foundation.
Rotarian Billy Jane Ferguson said Rotary is changing lives. “We still have persons living in tents (on Sweeting’s Cay), and the plan is to help them,” she said. “We are hoping the donors will also come on board with phase three.”
With Phase One of the project completed, the Sweeting’s Cay Home Project was a great success thanks to the partnerships of Rotary International, the TK (Torben Karlshoej) Foundation, Team Sea Grape and “countless” others who made the vision a reality. On Friday, May 21, nine Sweeting’s Cay residents and family members were handed the keys to brand-new homes on the quaint cay, the first phase of an ongoing project.
Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, Management and Reconstruction Pakesia Parker-Edgecombe, Member of Parliament (MP) for West Grand Bahama and Bimini, spoke on behalf of MP for East Grand Bahama, K. Peter Turnquest, who was unable to attend the event. “Member of Parliament K. Peter Turnquest stated that he wishes to thank the TK Foundation, particularly Ms. Diane Pindling, who reached out to him as the MP for this area, offering your assistance in a time a need; subsequently, leading to the formation of a team that he considers to the best, led by Area Governor for Rotary District 6990 Billy Jane Ferguson and Rotarian Darren Cooper. He also mentioned Jimmy Smith and his team who made the day’s events possible."
The coconut capital of Grand Bahama, the eastern community of Pelican Point, was severely impacted by the destructive Hurricane Dorian back in September 2019. As result, many of the beautiful coconut trees that lined the streets of the quaint settlement were destroyed and uprooted. To assist with the restoration of the coconut trees, this past Saturday, March 13, the Rotary Club of Freeport in partnership with the Rotary Club of Eleuthera made a special visit to the settlement, bearing gifts.
The donation was a number of fruit trees inclusive of coconut trees, to replant within the community.
Rotary Club of Freeport Past President, Mike Stafford, explained how the initiative came about. “We are here in the beautiful Pelican Point, which is the coconut capital of Grand Bahama. As you know, before Hurricane Dorian there was nothing but coconut trees out here; however, the storm really devastated the area. If you look down the beach now you can only see a few coconut trees, whereas there used to be hundreds of them."
K. Peter Turnquest, member of Parliament for East Grand Bahama, recently got a first-hand look at the housing project in Sweeting’s Cay being funded by the Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama and its international organization. In the first phase of the project, nine homes are being constructed for Sweeting’s Cay residents, who were displaced as a result of the historically devastating September 2019, Hurricane Dorian.
Many of the residents of Sweeting’s Cay, which lies off the coast of East Grand Bahama, were forced to relocate while others remained, living in makeshift tents on their properties. On Friday (February 5) Turnquest expressed how pleased he was to see the progress that the civic organization was making in assisting Sweeting’s Cay residents to return home.
The Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama have embarked on the Sweeting’s Cay Home Repair project to rebuild homes on the cay, where residents have been living in tents and displaced for the past 18 months since Hurricane Dorian. Nine homes will be constructed during the first phase of the project, which is being undertaken and spearheaded by Rotary through funding provided by a private donor, the TK Foundation.
Rotarians travelled to Sweeting’s Cay on Monday, January 11, to officially announce the project to residents there who were very excited and eager about it. Nearly every structure was destroyed on the cay during the storm in September 2019.
The Rotary Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Committee, in its recent partnership with the Grand Bahama Power Company, supplied a truck load of building materials to residents of Rocky Creek in East Grand Bahama. The small fishing village was completely devastated by Hurricane Dorian a year ago. Every single house there was destroyed, and those families are now living in temporary structures until their homes can be rebuilt.
Through a significant contribution by GB Power, the Rotary Disaster Relief Committee acquired building materials from Third Dimension recently. Five Star Trucking provided a flatbed truck to haul the load nearly 40 miles to the settlement. Rotarians from the five Rotary Clubs, and Rotaract members, helped with offloading the materials to every resident.
Although Rocky Creek was devastated by Hurricane Dorian, displaced residents have returned after a year determined to rebuild their small fishing village in East End. Those from the close-knit community of siblings who reside in the settlement are living in temporary structures on their properties where their homes once stood.
“We are happy to be back after being in Freeport for a year. It is not the same as it was before, but Rocky Creek is home, and we will rebuild it,” said resident Maxine Knowles. Ms Knowles is one of four siblings who lives in Rocky Creek with their spouses and children. The family’s matriarch – a native of Long Islander– who moved to Grand Bahama many years ago and settled in East End is 71.
Before the storm, the family decided to leave and take refuge at a shelter in Freeport, except for brother-in-law Paul Russell who stayed behind. He barely survived by clinging to a tree so he wouldn’t be swept away in the 20ft surge.
The Rotary Club of Miami through its foundation has pledged its full support of Project GBI Rx, which was established to provide much-needed equipment for the Rand Memorial Hospital (RMH). The club has pledged to match any and all contributions up to $50,000.
In a press release officers noted that in September 2019, Hurricane Dorian came to Grand Bahama and stayed. “Days of rain created high waters never seen before by an island that has seen its share of hurricanes over the years. The Rand Memorial Hospital in Freeport, the only hospital on GBI to serve 50,000 island residents, did not escape Dorian’s fury. Today, the building repairs are almost completed, but there is still a great need for hospital equipment to replace what was damaged.”
The five Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama with two Rotaract Clubs have created Project GBI Rx to help replace the damaged hospital equipment.
Times have certainly changed and along with it is the way students worldwide are receiving educational instruction, as a matter of fact, greater emphasis is placed on virtual learning in today’s COVID-19 sensitive environment. Parents are now required to purchase laptops and tablets for their children, which is difficult due to financial instability hence the Rotary club of Freeport has worked diligently to lend a helping hand.
Othyneil Pinder, Rotary Club of Freeport President proudly donated 16 Intel Pentium Core desktop computers and 12 iPads to Jack Hayward Senior High School on Tuesday October 27th, 2020 much to the delight of Principal Bronwen Smith.
According to Pinder, “The Rotary Club of Freeport in conjunction with the Mayfield Beach, Florida group are elated to present students at Jack Hayward Senior High School with much-needed desktop and laptop computers to assist with enhancing their education. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic virtual or hybrid learning is the order of the day and many parents are not able to purchase these electronics hence we thought it fitting to do what we can as an organization keen on rendering service above self to assist."
The Rotary Club of Freeport continues to render service above self throughout the Grand Bahama community and on Friday October 9th, 2020 President Othyneil Pinder proudly presented nine state-of-the-art Philips Respironics oxygen concentrators to Grand Bahama Health Services/Rand Memorial Hospital Administrator Sharon A. Williams and Medical Chief of Staff Dr. H. Freeman Lockhart.
With the battle against COVID-19 continuing to rage on globally, both Williams and Dr. Lockhart noted that the donation could not have come at a more opportune time, as medical professionals fight around the clock to help patients, who contract COVID-19 to recover and survive. “Today, we are here with our health partners the Rotary Club of Freeport that are donating to us medical equipment that can assist with healthcare concerns across the spectrum. We are pleased to be the recipient of nine oxygen concentrators and, we thank the Rotary Club for their continued support of the Grand Bahama Health Services and the wider community,” stated Williams.
A grand welcome home celebration will be held for the 30 displaced children of the Grand Bahama Children’s Home, who will be returning to Grand Bahama on Friday, October 2. The International Federation of Women Lawyers Grand Bahama Chapter (FIDA) and the Rotary Clubs of District 6990 have partnered to welcome the children back, with a grand procession throughout the streets of Freeport.
Hadassah Swain, FIDA regional vice president for North America and the Caribbean, said the children would be welcomed under the theme ‘Tie a Yellow Ribbon’. She said the yellow ribbon symbol became widely known in the 1970s as a reminder an absent loved one would be welcomed home on their return.
As I reflect on the 2019-2020 Rotary year, I must say that it has truly been my pleasure serving as your Area Governor for the Island of Grand Bahama.
You have taught me the true meaning of being “connected” in Rotary. The United States has a motto: “E pluribus unum,” which means “out of many, one.” We exemplify that motto, for we are no longer five individual clubs in Grand Bahama, but are one BIG Rotary family, and for this I am very thankful, for you have created this unity, this connection.
Hurricane Dorian
The Northern Bahamas (Grand Bahama and Abaco) was severely impacted by Hurricane Dorian, the worst hurricane in its history, a category 5 with wind speed of up to 220 mph and 23 ft water surges, wreaking havoc on the second and third revenue-producing islands in The Bahamas. It provided the greatest example of Rotary “connectedness” in the history of Rotary in The Bahamas.
The Rotary Club of Freeport held its recent weekly meeting via Zoom and was delighted to welcome Rupert Hayward, Executive Director of the Grand Bahama Port Authority Limited (GBPA) and the Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Foundation (GBDRF), as special guest speaker. Hayward, an active and vocal champion of Grand Bahama, shared an overview of the work the GBPA and the GBDRF have done to support island residents since the devastation of Hurricane Dorian and COVID-19.
Presenting to over 40 members via the online service, Hayward gave an overview of the work done by the GBPA after Hurricane Dorian to restore the island, discussed ongoing work to rebuild the utility system which was severely impacted, as well as reviewed the amazing quantity of donations that came through GBDRF. “The GBDRF were on the ground from day one working with our partners like Nexus Global and Amazon to help reach and feed over 45,000 Grand Bahamians, from east to west. We then utilized our GBPA geo-mapping system, to successfully identify hundreds of storm-damaged properties and teamed up with various local and international partners including the Bahamas Red Cross, SPB-USA, and yourselves (Rotary).”
President of the Rotary Club of Freeport Othyneil Pinder noted: “It is heartening to understand the full scope of support the GBPA, in its service to Freeport’s businesses and residents, has provided since the passing of Hurricane Dorian.
One year ago the Northern Bahamas (Abaco and Grand Bahama) suffered extreme devastation from Cat 5 Hurricane Dorian. In this video documentary survivors recount those terrifying times while Rotary and others sprang into immediate action to provide relief.
During the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly Zoom meeting on Thursday, August 13, prominent Grand Bahama physician Dr. Kevin Bethel discussed the current situation with COVID 19 in The Bahamas.
Members of Grand Bahama's Rotary Clubs joined together to deliver a truckload of pet food and supplies to the Humane Society of Grand Bahama on July 23. This donation was made in honour of our beloved fallen brother, Richard Bates, who was a great supporter and friend to the HSGB.
Even in these difficult times, and after sustaining severe damage from Hurricane Dorian, the Humane Society of Grand Bahama is still doing a fantastic job caring for our island's animals.
Big "paws up" to them.
Rotarians join together to assist the Humane Society
Residents in East Grand Bahama are closer to getting back into the fishing industry thanks to a project spearheaded by the Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama. ZNS news reporter Megan Shepherd tells the story.
NASSAU, Bahamas -- From being the first relief group on the ground in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake, to coordinating massive relief efforts in The Bahamas after Hurricane Dorian, and spearheading the world’s efforts to eradicate Polio, Rotary Clubs have long been on the frontlines of humanitarian efforts across the globe. These efforts are supported not only by hardworking volunteer Rotarians, but also by partnerships with some of the world’s largest corporate entities.
At its June 19 virtual meeting The Rotary Club of East Nassau was proud to accept, on behalf of the Bahamas Rotary Clubs’ Rotary Disaster Relief Fund, a $228,000 donation from KPMG for Hurricane Dorian relief efforts in Grand Bahama and Abaco.
“We’re so appreciative of our corporate partners like KPMG”, said Barry Rassin, immediate Past President of Rotary International and a member of the Rotary Club of East Nassau. “Financial donations of this magnitude can have such a tangible impact on relief efforts, particularly when paired with an all-volunteer organization like Rotary. We are in a unique position at Rotary to ensure that every penny goes directly to where it’s needed most, and not towards administrative expenses.”
Rotary International to spend approximately $10 million on the recovery of the island of Abaco, immediate past president, Barry Rassin has told The Tribune. Along with the $10 million comes a promise of Rotary staying with Abaconians until their lives return to some semblance of normalcy.
“A disaster comes in parts,” the Rotarian explained. “First there is ‘Immediate Relief’. Rotary Clubs in this country were unbelievable. They all stepped up to provide immediate relief. We worked with the airport, with registering individuals, we were on the boats that went to Abaco to bring in the evacuees. Each club adopted a shelter in the early days so they could help the shelter with whatever they needed like food and supplies.
Thank you to Bones Bar, located at the Pelican Bay Hotel, for their thousand dollar donation to the Grand Bahama Emergency Water Foundation aka the Rotary Water Plant. Hurricane season is here and the water plant stands ready to assist should the need arise.
It is with great sadness that the Rotary Club of Freeport marks the passing of Past President and Past Area Governor Richard Bates on May 11 after a roughly year-long battle with pancreatic cancer.
Richard was involved with Rotary in nearly every aspect. He and his wife Monica attended numerous International Conventions and hosted countless exchange students from around the world. Richard's boat trips to Peterson's Cay were a highlight of every RYE student who was ever lucky enough to visit the island of Grand Bahama. He enjoyed introducing them to Bahamian food and culture.
Richard was also the keeper of the Rotary Wagon - a fixture at every Junkanoo parade. He loved to include Rotaract in manning the wagon and taught them the vital skill of cotton candy making. He also coordinated Rotary grilling burgers at the BASRA swim race, Humane Society dog show and many other community events. In addition, Richard spent many hours at the Rotary Water Plant and was always on-hand to assist after every hurricane with whatever needed done.
He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May he rest in peace.
A portable water plant has been installed on Abaco, bringing 10,000 gallons of potable water a day to residents. The salt water reverse osmosis plant was donated by several non-profit organisations in the country.
Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas, in partnership with PureH2O and their Critical Path Foundation, had the water system installed in Treasure Cay in an effort to provide free clean water for anyone who needs it on the island.
Fresh off a collaborative campaign with the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) which provided over 100 appliances to residents on the island, the Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Foundation (GBDRF) and local NGOs are continuing the work of completing repairs to homes damaged during Hurricane Dorian, in communities across the island.
During Dorian’s two-day rampage on Grand Bahama, as many as 2,000 structures on the island received varying degrees of damage, with 1,500 of these within the City of Freeport. Over the past several months the GBDRF undertook a phased approach to home repair efforts, working closely with GBPA and teams from Rotary International to execute repairs.
The #COVID19 global pandemic is threatening our health, safety and way of life. We will get through this by working together and taking care of each other – just what Rotary members do. Read more: on.rotary.org/covid-19.
A NATIONWIDE volunteer programme is to be launched by Governor General CA Smith on Monday in an effort to foster a culture of volunteerism in the country following Hurricane Dorian.
The initiative, “Volunteer Bahamas - A Call to Action”, was announced during a press conference held at Government House yesterday. Officials are hoping it will be “the largest movement of volunteerism” in the country. Speaking at yesterday’s event was Volunteer Bahamas chairman Barry Rassin, who noted the importance of having a national volunteer movement, especially in the wake of Hurricane Dorian. “The value of volunteerism of the power of volunteers cannot be overestimated as was evidenced in The Bahamas post-Dorian,” he said.
Students of Bishop Michael Eldon School (BMES) were officially installed as members of the Interact Club, the youth arm of the Rotary Club of Freeport at the school’s campus on Wednesday, March 4.
President of the Freeport Club Lorrine Miller led the moderated the ceremony, where she thanked the students for hosting the club and congratulated the newly installed members before they were pinned as official members. “The Freeport Rotary Club if the oldest club in The Bahamas,” she said, adding that they celebrated their 59th Anniversary this year.
Members of the Rotaract Club of Freeport (RCOF) continue to serve the Grand Bahama community through school outreach initiatives. The club recently made toy donations to the Hugh W. Campbell Primary School and the Lewis Yard Primary School on their campuses.
The club adopted Hugh Campbell along with the Lewis Yard Primary School and therefore, decided to present the playful items to each school to confirm their commitment to the institutions. “We wanted to ensure that students at the school felt the love on Valentine’s Day and decided to donate toys to the school. At the Rotaract Club of Freeport, we understand that play is an important part of human learning and development,” said RCOF President Keturah Babb.
Tents, mattresses, sheetrock, roofing supplies and so much more. Rotary is on the ground on the island of Grand Bahama with assistance in every neighborhood, from day one until now, nearly 6 months after Hurricane Dorian.
Click HERE to view on YouTube if video does not display above.
Waiting for a hurricane like Dorian—a Category 5 with winds gusting over 200 mph accompanied by a sea surge of some 22 ft—was, in and of itself, an anticipatory trauma. Stress levels erupted as my husband, Jamie and I thought about the future and the losses the storm might bring. Preparations and television reports showing the constant ‘cone of uncertainty’ disrupted our daily life creating high levels of anxiety. Did we have adequate water and food to sustain us? How long would we be without power? Did we have enough gas? What about our shutters and the generator?
And running under all this frenzied planning was a constant current of fear of the unknown. How would we survive this physically, financially? How would our community survive? Would it ever bounce back? Would we have to leave if our island became a war zone? Where would we go? There was no way to stop the distressing existential thoughts. Just keep moving. Finally, when the last towels were stacked near the windows and doors and our documents and valuables packed in a waterproof container—the preparations were complete.
However, nothing, and I mean nothing could have prepared us for the devastating impact of this particular storm.
The monster storm Dorian devastated Grand Bahama Island leaving the island without potable water. Rotary's Water Plant was the only source after the storm. Learn how a team of dedicated Rotarians and Rotaractors keep it all running.
Rotary International, Grand Bahama, assures that its Emergency Water Relief Foundation or water plant will continue to supply the general public with potable water until the normal supply is no longer interrupted.
Rotarian Michael Stafford, Plant Manager, provided details on the plant’s operation during an exclusive interview with The Freeport News on Wednesday, February 12. Stafford said that the plant, which is located on Bahamian Way, is open 24/7 and self-serving. “People come to get water, before work, after work and in the middle of the day,” he said. He revealed that the self-serving pumps are sanitized about three times a day.
The plant is a Bahamas Government registered foundation that was started in 2007, but the first water was actually pumped in 2009. “It’s the result of a Rotary global grant between District 6990 which is Southeast Florida; District 7020, which is the rest of The Bahamas and the Northern Caribbean and District 5280, which is the Greater Los Angeles, including the Beverly Hills Club and the Club of Santa Monica,” Stafford said. He added that the water plant was also funded by a very generous donation made by the TK Foundation, which paid to build the building.
The Rotary International organization in Grand Bahama has reportedly received over $1 million dollars in donations for Hurricane Dorian relief efforts, revealed a report during the weekly luncheon meeting on Tuesday, February 11, when members from the five clubs – Freeport, Lucaya, Sunrise, Sunset and Grand Bahama – came together for an update on their Hurricane Dorian relief and reconstruction efforts.
Rotary District Governor Lisbeth Knowles disclosed that $1.3 million in donations was received to date. “We have received about $1.3 million so far – $700,000 and $600,000) through the Robbins Fund through our District,” she added. The Robbins Fund, was established over 20 years ago to aid in disaster recovery efforts.
Knowles also spoke about the significance of the meeting that day. “We wanted to get all the Rotary Clubs together, they’ve been working so hard.” She added that they wanted to show the members and volunteers exactly what their hard work has accomplished in the wake of Hurricane Dorian. The presentation included videos and vital information, including the amount of funds the clubs have received and how that money was spent.
The Rotary Clubs in Grand Bahama hosted its second building materials mass distribution on Friday, January 24, at the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA). Area Governor for Rotary District 6990 in Grand Bahama Lisbeth Knowles spoke about the organization’s latest post-Dorian relief effort, during an interview on Tuesday, January 28.
Knowles said that Rotary has been gutting and conducting mould remediation efforts on homes in Hudson Estates and Regency Park. She added that when the initiative began, Rotarians would distribute building material door-to-door. “But it’s pretty tedious and it takes a while, therefore, we decided to do mass distributions instead.”
The organization hosted a distribution exercise just before Christmas 2019 for residents in Hudson Estates; however, the most recent distribution was even bigger with about 3,000 sheetrock and more donated to those in need.
Residents in the community of Hawksbill displaced by the wrath of Hurricane Dorian are even closer to getting back into their homes for Christmas with the delivery of much needed building materials due to the humanitarian efforts of the Rotary Clubs and District 6990. The hustle and bustle of activity was a welcomed kick-off to the yuletide season for residents of that quaint community when the trailer load of building materials rolled in on Thanksgiving Day.
Area Governor of District 6990 for Grand Bahama Lisbeth Knowles was elated to finally get to the stage where residents would be able to see the end of a long-fought journey after a majority of them had to have their homes gutted and treated for mold due to water intrusion.
A collaboration between Rotary, Pure H2O and Critical Path Foundation, of approximately USD$110,000 portable Reverse Osmosis system is being constructed for deployment in Abaco initially but wherever required in future disasters. It is a sea water RO system housed in a 20ft specially outfitted container with a generator, holding tanks and pumps.
The Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas have established partnerships to begin planning projects with:
Lyford Cay Foundation
Bahamas Striping Group of Companies
IDEA Organization
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Click HERE to download the full report in PDF format
Together we will rebuild! Hurricane Dorian recovery report from District 7020
Cognizant of the challenges some homeowners hit by Hurricane Dorian’s storm surge face, Rotary International District 6990, inclusive of all five clubs on Grand Bahama, recently launched its mold remediation program to assist in mitigating potential health risks. In that vein, Rotary partnered with GlobalMedic, an internationally-known rapid response agency headquartered in Canada which specializes in humanitarian disaster response, and Town and Country, a local maintenance business that provides mold inspection and treatment
. The team went door-to-door beginning with homes in the Hawksbill subdivision and Rotary Volunteer Richard Halpern stressed the importance of carrying out inspections, testing, prophylactic cleaning and spraying. “Even when one doesn’t see it, doesn’t mean its not there,” he said of possible mold infestation in homes that have been compromised. “Some of the frustrations that people are feeling, particularly this far into the disaster, is that we want to get back to normal.”
By Area Governor Lisbeth Knowles / October 31, 2019
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
Here is an update on some of what Rotary has done since hurricane Dorian hit our beautiful Grand Bahama Island:
With professional attention to details, and days prior to Hurricane Dorian’s devastating winds and surge reaching the shores of Grand Bahama, the Rotary reverse osmosis plant manager, and his staff, inspected, serviced and double checked this specialized equipment. Once satisfied with the plant’s reliability, the system was geared up to assure as much stored pure, clean drinking water. While we all hoped for the best, this special team planned for the worst. Unfortunately, their foresight proved essential. Subsequently, this same plant manager requested, and was granted, the necessary funds to double the plant’s output capacity.
Hours after the official “all clear” declaration, A special Rotary Disaster Relief committee was formed to evaluate options, to communicate with fellow Rotarians, NEMA, and other NGOs, to provide checks and balances, transparency and accountability to our donors and others. This five persons committee consisted of the present AG, (Area Governor), the incoming AG, and the next in line Area Governor (to permit for smooth continuity), and two persons very familiar with successful post Hurricane Matthew We Care and the Roof Repair and Replacement program.
Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama organised several convoys into East Grand Bahama, distributing much-needed building materials to residents to help rebuild homes in those devastated East End settlements.
Two 40ft trailers with roofing and building materials, and other items, including brand new generators, fuel and bottled drinking water were taken to Pelican Point last week by members of the five Rotary Clubs. According to residents, it was the first distribution of building materials in that area since the storm. It brought some hope for rebuilding in that seaside community ravaged by Hurricane Dorian.
RCF president Lorine Miller was one busy lady on Saturday, August 17. First she joined with Rotarians from all the clubs on Grand Bahama to cook burgers at the 49th annual Bernie Butler BASRA swim race on Coral Beach and later dazzled the crowds as a free dancer during the Ministry of Tourism’s Junkanoo Summer Festival 2019 at Smith's Point. The festival included Junkanoo groups competing for a grand prize; a special performance by the Royal Bahamas Police Pop Band; and the highly-anticipated appearance by Bahamian artist K.B.
Click HERE to read more about the Summer Festival in the Freeport News
Rotary Club of Freeport president dazzles at Junkanoo Summer Festival
Rotarians and guests of the five clubs on the island came together yesterday – Thursday, August 15 – at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant for a special meeting, where they heard the role and responsibilities of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) in the Bahamian waters. RBDF Lieutenant Commander Clint Johnson, who was the guest speaker, also shared on the history and the revitalization of the Force’s decentralizing operation.
Johnson noted that while the decentralizing process is not new, there has been a regional command with an effort of setting up sub-bases throughout The Bahamas. “The decentralizing process was something that started a while ago. It is still in its infancy stages, but because you have 700 islands and you have them spread over 100,000 square miles of ocean, the process has been split up into Northern Command, Central Command and Southern Command."
The Rotary Club of Freeport recently received a large shipment of wheelchairs, which will go towards helping many persons in need of mobility assistance throughout the Grand Bahama community.
Club president Darren Cooper, spoke with this daily on the arrival of the wheelchairs Saturday (April 27). “The Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama have received another container of wheelchairs for distribution to deserving individuals in the Northern Bahamas,” he said.
Cooper said that the Grand Bahama Rotary Clubs have provided over 500 wheelchairs, free of charge, in the Northern Bahamas since the programme started in 2002.
Leader of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA), Arinthia Komolafe, painted a gloomy picture of the economy of Grand Bahama and the rest of the country while bringing remarks as the key guest of the Rotary Club of Freeport recently. She pointed out though that the increasing ease to do business is positive. She likened the general situation though to a “perfect storm.”
Komolafe is no stranger to Grand Bahama. She informed of having visited the island several times over the past six months and that much of her youth was spent on the island.Komolafe admitted that she was first unsure of what to speak to Grand Bahamians about, being a resident of New Providence, but decided to address challenges of the Grand Bahamian economy which affects the country as a whole. Those challenges are already well-documented from devastating hurricanes, to much more in Grand Bahama which she inferred, affects the rest of the country.
Members of the Rotaract Clubs of Freeport and Eight Mile Rock reaffirmed their commitment to support the Grand Bahama community through various initiatives. President and President Elect of the respective clubs sat down with The Freeport News to discuss their plans for the future on Wednesday (March 13).
President Elect of the Rotary Club of Freeport Philecia Martin, stated that World Rotaract Week is globally recognized from March 11-17 and to this end, the club members are dedicating time and effort to giving back to the community. Since the beginning of the Rotaract year, July 1 2018, the Rotaract Club of Freeport has had over 20 community service projects. "We’ve provided hot breakfast for families, adopted two schools and partnered with numerous organizations. Most recently, a dental health screening was conducted at our adopted school and teachers were presented with items for their staff room."
The Rotary Club of Freeport recently furthered its commitment to community service by spending time with the students at Genesis Academy and making a monetary donation to the institution.
President of the Rotary Club of Lucaya Darren Cooper, told this daily that the organization chose to visit the school because they wanted to conduct a different kind of outreach initiative. “We’re here, as a club, to be the inspiration. Our theme for this year is, ‘Be the Inspiration’ and we thought that it was very important rather than us sitting at the Ruby Swiss (Restaurant) and having our regular lunch meeting, we would come on the outside and connect with our kids,” Cooper revealed.
Rotary Lucaya held a joint meeting at Ruby Swiss on Tuesday, December 19 to discuss economic development plans, which can catapult the Bahamian economy on a wider scope. Four of the Grand Bahama clubs – Rotary Sunset, Rotary Sunrise, Rotary Freeport and Rotary Lucaya – heard from guest speaker, District Governor Rotarian nominee 2020-2021 Peter Verbeeck.
“I notice that The Bahamas doesn’t take advantage of this pot of money that is sitting at Rotary International. It is just waiting especially on global grants for you to have projects that can really impact your local community. Another portion is an economic development project and I call it living the dream. It means whatever you as an individual Rotarian or District dreams to accomplish, you must work together to achieve it."
The Salvation Army, Grand Bahama, crowned Rotary Club of Freeport its 2017 winners of the Red Kettle Campaign. The announcement came last Thursday, at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant. The Red Kettle Campaign is a fund-raiser, whereby clubs partner up with the Salvation Army to raise funds for those who need Christmas assistance. After the money is calculated, the presentation to the the winning club takes place a year later.
According to Salvation Army Representative Major Roger Compton, this is the biggest fund-raiser for the organization each year.“We go out and greet people, and because the public is aware of what the Salvation Army is about, 75 percent of the money that we raise is used for Christmas assistance and the other 25 percent would go to the food pantry.”
Compton congratulated the Rotary Club of Freeport “for winning the Annual Bell Ringing Trophy and for raising the most money in 2017.”
The Rotary Club of Freeport is hoping to win for the fourth time this year.
The Bahamas’ leading nutritionist and herbalist, Jamal Moncur, has traveled the world to bring home lost herbal traditions and African Bi-Mineral therapies designed to improve the quality of life for ailing Bahamians and his international clients. Since launching his New Life business in New Providence in 2010, Moncur successfully expanded his operations to Grand Bahama, providing vegetarian and other natural remedies to treat and prevent scores of diseases facing our modern world. This month, during the annual observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, he and his team will host a ‘Prevention is the Path to Cure’ one day seminar on what they believe can help prevent cancer.
“Breast Cancer remains one of the most common forms of the disease,” noted Moncur, “and because so many people are unable to afford the medical treatments, our mission is to provide a natural alternative that incorporates healthy lifestyle choices and dietary measures that are both affordable and we feel, life changing.”
Ministry of Agriculture Animal Care Unit Acting Warden, Lisa Lockhart on Thursday, August 30 served as the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Freeport weekly meeting at Ruby Swiss Restaurant, detailing responsibilities of the Unit. Known throughout the local community for her passion for animals, Lockhart has held various positions at the Humane Society of Grand Bahama where she worked for the past eight years before joining the Ministry of Agriculture Canine Unit.
Working feverishly to ensure all animals receive the help necessary, the Acting Warden detailed the responsibilities of the Unit stating, “The Canine Unit officially opened on March 1, 2017 and focuses mainly on the Government areas located in Grand Bahama but also able to deal with calls coming from Freeport.
The real estate market is enticing at the moment. Such is the conviction of a noted real estate associate. On Thursday, during the regular meeting of the Rotary Club of Freeport, guest speaker Donna Laing-Jones said that now is the time to invest in the market.
Donna Laing-Jones, with Keys Bahamas Realty, said that there is still a great deal of opportunity in the local real estate market because it is a biased market. “We have a lot of persons who want fixer uppers, now is the time to buy those fixer uppers. I cannot determine if those properties will be available in the next six months. The market is in dire need of rental properties like efficiencies and one to two bedroom apartments."
Photo: Rotary Club of Freeport president Darren Cooper presents Donna Laing-Jones of Keys Bahamas Realty with a certificate of appreciation after she addressed the club on Thursday, August 9.
Rotary International District Governor 6990 Drew Monaghan visited the Freeport Rotary Club (RCF) at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on Thursday, July 19 outlining plans for the year ahead. Darren Cooper, RCF president said he is expressly pleased to have had the District Governor familiarize and update Rotarians and guests on the organization’s outreach efforts, as it relates to ensuring rendering genuine, thought out and properly executed service above self, which is its operational motto.
According to District Governor Monaghan, “My mission here today is to discuss Rotary International’s new theme, “Be the Inspiration” and its expected impact; as a matter of fact, our Rotary International President Barry Rasin, East Nassau came up with it and it is important to know how important the actions of Rotarians are particularly as it involves inspiring others in joining together to get more done within our local communities and worldwide. “Certainly, we are keen on increasing our youth service programs, which helps kids become more connected as it relates to youth leadership and mentoring, as well as reduce crime and violence."
Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama Island Assistant Governor, Wayne Russell, held a joint meeting on Wednesday, June 13 at Ruby Swiss Restaurant donating $9,000.00 to four charities inclusive of the Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation (Rotary Water Plant) and the Rotary Wheelchair for the Handicapped Programme.
Elated with the success of the Annual Rotary Gala Ball, Russell thanked the out-going presidents of the Rotary Club of Sunrise, Sunset, Freeport and Lucaya as well as the Rotaract Clubs of Eight Mile Rock and Freeport, along with the membership for their unwavering support, particularly, as it regards rendering “Service Above Self.”
LIS DONATION – Lucaya International School (LIS) Interact Club President Quincy Gordon Jr., (center) this past Thursday, May 10 presented a donation to the Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation (Rotary Water Plant) during the Rotary Club of Freeport weekly meeting. Also pictured are club’s president, Elsie Knowles (left) and Mike Stafford (right), Rotary Water Plant Manager. (PHOTO: JENNEVA RUSSELL)
The talented members of the Grand Bahama Youth Choir performed the U.S. and Bahamian national anthems as well as other songs and drum performances at the 2018 Rotary Ball, held on March 17 at the Grand Lucayan. See video below or click HERE to view on YouTube.
Grand Bahama Youth Choir performs at the Rotary Ball 2018
Grand Bahama Health Services (GBHS) Family Medicine Specialist Dr. Tiadra Johnson recently addressed the topic, “Show Your Kidneys Some Love” at the Rotary Club of Freeport Meeting kick-starting Kidney Health and Awareness Month, which is celebrated in March worldwide.
Kidneys are vital organs of the body that not only regulate blood pressure but also filter 120-150 quarts of blood daily, activate vitamin D for healthy bones, remove waste products from the body, direct production of red blood cells and balance the body’s fluids, Dr. Johnson informed Rotarians and guests.
MENTORSHIP ASSISTANCE – Rotary Club of Freeport presents Falcons Boys’ Club with a $1,000 check to assist mentorship efforts locally and nationally. Pictured from left to right are RCF president Elsie Knowles; Community Projects Chairperson Venus Hall-Miller; Falcons Boys’ Club Founder Darrin Rolle and Rotarian Steve Gunn. (PHOTO: SHARELL LOCKHART)
Click HERE to read full story in the Freeport News
Pictured is President Elsie Knowles, Rotary Club of Freeport, Acting President Frederick Potier of the Northern Bahamas Council for the Disabled, and Stephen Gunn of the Rotary Club of Freeport. The occasion is the annual Rotary Club of Freeport Christmas presentation of funds for the the purchase of food items for members of the Council for the Disabled.
Acting President Potier for the Council gave an update on the history and the present efforts of the Northern Bahamas Council for the Disabled. There was also a presentation of a new wheelchair for the Acting President, Pastor Potier, who was in need of a new wheelchair.
Pastor Potier whole heartedly thanked the Rotary Club of Freeport for its support over the years and also for the wheelchair program that the Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama have provide over the last fifteen years with their distribution of over five hundred wheelchairs. The gift of mobility is deeply appreciated by the recipients.
Rotary Club of Freeport donates to Council for the Disabled
Water is an essential life source and thankfully prior to, during and after the passage of Hurricane Irma, Rotary Club District 6990 Associate Assistant Governor and Plant Manager Mike Stafford worked diligently to ensure that shelters across Grand Bahama had an ample supply. Extending an open invitation to other civic organizations such as the Pilot Club of Lucaya, Kiwanis Club of Eight Mile Rock and the LIONS’ Club of Freeport as well as the junior branches of each; Stafford revealed he was pleased to have the support of everyone especially as it relates to sanitizing the water plant, filling up jugs and preparing tote trucks for distribution throughout the community.
Always prepared to render service, Stafford admits he is thankful that Hurricane Irma did not do as much destruction on Grand Bahama as Hurricane Matthew last year and, happily provided an update on the action plan at the water plant ahead of the recent tropical cyclone.
Renowned Bahamian Cardiologist and Internist Dr. Winston Forbes discussed the importance of maintaining good heart and blood vessel health at the Rotary Club of Freeport meeting held at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on Thursday, August 24, 2017.
Providing health tips while dispelling common misconceptions regarding various heart conditions, Dr. Forbes pointed out, “Maintaining proper heart and blood vessel health is essential, as heart disease (Cardiovascular disease) is the number one killer in The Bahamas among both women and men, which is a fact that is completely contrary to popular belief that cancer tops the list.
The balmy beaches and crystal clear waters of The Bahamas is an alluring attraction not only for visitors but residents too and, water safety is oftentimes forgotten. Annually, particularly on holidays, families’ host outings at the beach and such joyous occasions become horrific when just for a split second a child is left unsupervised and a drowning occurs.
In light of this fact, the Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) has sought to heighten water safety awareness and education throughout Grand Bahama by introducing the Josh the Baby Otter Water Safety and Awareness Project during the organization’s weekly meeting at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on Thursday, August 10, 2017.
Innovative youth development and improved community service programs top the list of goals newly elected Rotary Club of Freeport President Elsie Knowles hopes to successfully achieve during her tenure at the helm of the service organization. An Emergency Medical Technician, Knowles was sworn in as the 55th president of the Rotary Club of Freeport two weeks ago and noted she is ready to hit the ground running with the support of fellow Rotarians and Immediate Past President Darren Cooper.
She noted that the service organization has made tremendous strides throughout the Grand Bahama community and she not only intends to work diligently to ensure success with all previously implemented programs but introduce new initiatives that would further boost and positively impact the youth and local environment. “Indeed I am elated to serve as the 55th president of the Rotary Club of Freeport and to continue the wonderful work and programs established to aid the growth and development of the Grand Bahama community."
Rotarian Brian Ramatally, from the Rotary Club of San Fernando South, Trinidad (right), visited the Rotary Club of Freeport's luncheon meeting on Thursday, February 23, 2017, and exchanged club banners with RCF president Darren Cooper (left). Mr. Ramatally told RCF club members about his club's strong youth programs on the island of Trinidad.
The Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) along with President Darren Cooper and NEMA Center Manager Tammi Mitchell delivered much-needed building supplies to Smith’s Point residents on Monday, February 20. Four months ago, Hurricane Matthew unleashed its fury across Grand Bahama with 10,000 homes sustaining severe infrastructural damages.
While NEMA has led the charge in providing aid to help with the post-Hurricane Matthew repair and recovery efforts island-wide, Smith’s Point residents expressed sincere gratitude to Joseph ‘Sharkbite Joe’ Kohler and the Rotary Clubs of Upstate New York for donating $3,450.00 for the purchase of materials specifically for the recovery process of their community.
The Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) donated $1,000.00 in Sawyer’s Fresh Market gift certificates to the Lunch Programs at Freeport Primary School, St. Georges High School, Bartlett Hill Primary School and Eight Mile Rock High School. The presentations were made during the club’s weekly meeting at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on Thursday, February 16.
Representatives from the four public schools thanked the RCF for lending assistance to one of its most vital programs, which provides disenfranchised students with much-needed hot and well-prepared meals on a daily basis. Darren Cooper, RCF president revealed it is indeed a pleasure to help, stating, “Today the RCF Board of Directors along with its members thought it would be fitting to once again assist some of the public schools here on Grand Bahama with their free, hot lunch programs."
Photo 1: Freeport Primary School Principal Troy Ritchie (R) and RCF president Darren Cooper.
Photo 2: St. Georges High School Senior Mistress and Family Consumer Science and Hospitality Studies coordinator Yvonne Pearson and RCF president Darren Cooper.
The Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) GBI Post-Hurricane Matthew Relief Initiative received $3,450 from Rotary Clubs of Upstate New York on Thursday, February 2, to aid in the island’s recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew.
Darren Cooper, RCF President thanked Joseph ‘Sharkbite Joe’ Kohler, a second homeowner on Grand Bahama for facilitating the partnership and financial aid provided, during the club’s weekly meeting at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant.
Cooper noted that every penny would be used to purchase building materials and supplies to repair homes in the Smith’s Point community.
The Falcons Boys’ Club (FBC) received much-appreciated support from the Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) this past Thursday, January 19, 2017, as the non-profit mentorship organization prepares to host its annual Boys’ Conference in the West Grand Bahama District. Darrin Rolle, FBC Founder revealed the conference, which will be held at Eight Mile Rock High School (EMRHS) Gymnasium is opened to boys between eight to 18 years old, who attend Bartlett Hill, Martin Town, Holmes Rock and West End Primary Schools as well as EMRHS and members of the club.
Proud to lend support to the FBC and Rolle, Rotary Club of Freeport President Darren Cooper said, “It is very important for Rotary to continue to support organizations such as the Falcons Boys’ Club, which take time out to mentor the youth of our society steering them in the right direction. “The Rotary Club of Freeport certainly is doing its part to support the FBC in various endeavors whether financially, through the donation of equipment and/or by providing assistance whenever called upon, as best we can."
Santa's Helpers, led by Vicky Martel of the Rotary Club of Freeport, made their annual delivery to children in West End, Grand Bahama recently. Known for her humanitarianism, each year Mrs. Martel leads a toy drive and heads the delivery.
The area took the brunt of Hurricane Matthew earlier this year, and there were many happy faces welcoming the Rotarians who had a wrapped gift for each child.
Click HERE to view more photos in The Bahamas Weekly
Santa's Helpers visit the children of West Grand Bahama
Hurricane Matthew dealt Grand Bahama a devastating blow nearly three months ago tearing through homes, schools, churches and businesses and essentially transforming the island’s landscape forever.
Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) President Darren Cooper along with former Rotary Club District 6990 Assistant Governor and Rotary Water Plant Manager Mike Stafford and RCF GBI Post-Hurricane Matthew Relief Initiative Steve Gunn along with community partners began working immediately prior to, during and after the storm to secure much-needed aid for families adversely impacted.
At the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly meeting - and Christmas party - at the Ruby Swiss on December 22nd, President Darren Cooper presented scholarship recipient Chelsey Wildgoose with a second cheque towards her studies at College of The Bahamas.
Chelsey is studying Primary Education.
Following the cheque presentation, Chelsey then joined Rotarians and their guests in a rousing, and very off-key, good-natured round of Christmas carol singing.
Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) President Darren Cooper recently thanked Sawyer’s Fresh Market CEO, Sandy Sawyer, at Ruby Swiss Restaurant for partnering with the organization and generously assisting the Grand Bahama community whenever called upon especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew.
According to Cooper, “We wanted to take the time to pause and say ‘thank-you’ to Mr. Sawyer for all he has done through the partnership that has been struck with the Rotary Club of Freeport. The Grand Bahama community has certainly benefitted from Mr. Sawyer’s assistance and generosity, which has eased the burdens of residents who have faced numerous challenges.”
We are pleased to report that the Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation (GBEWRF) again proved to be a vital component of the Grand Bahama Hurricane Recovery Plan in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. From our strategic location, next to Hawksbill Service Station, we were able to pre-position emergency water to the shelters in High Rock, Eight Mile Rock and Freeport as well as provide immediate relief after the storm -- until the island’s water supply was re-established.
Working with NEMA, and with the help of our partners in Polymers, FOCOL, Grand Bahama Port Authority, GB Power Co., GB Utility Co., Guardian Fencing & Shutters, Waugh Construction and Bradford Marine along with countless volunteers from the Pilot Club, Rotary, Rotaract, Interact, Kiwanis Club of Eight Mile Rock and others, we managed to provide over 100,000 gallons of emergency potable water to our fellow citizens.
Our reverse osmosis water maker and double filtration system ensured the delivery of clean water to those most in need. However, the demand for emergency water was great and we struggled to keep up with the overwhelming need. We could potentially provide twice the amount of water. Our plant, designed and built by the late Harold “Sonny” Waugh and others worked well and was planned with enough space to add a second reverse osmosis water maker. It is for this reason that we call upon you to help us complete this final improvement so that we can fulfill our mandate to provide emergency water relief to all of those in times of need.
The cost of this upgrade is in the $60,000 range and will double our production capacity to 15,000 gallons per day. The GBEWRF has a dedicated bank account which has committee oversight. If you or your company are in a position to assist this worthy cause please make cheques out to The GB Emergency Water Relief Foundation.
Yours in Service,
Michael Stafford
Director, Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation
Phone 242 727 1176
Email: bahamapro@hotmail.com
TO VIEW PHOTOS of the Rotary Water Plant in action, click on the photo album at the bottom of this home page.
The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands are intricately connected hence when Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) president, Darren Cooper, solicited assistance from business executives there for help with GBI Post-Hurricane Matthew Relief Initiative, it was no surprise that Waterloo Investment Holdings Ltd. (WIHL) Community Service Committee immediately answered the call to support.
Sanajah Forbes, Blue Haven Marina and Resort, TCI Owner Relations/Property Admin. Manager traveled to Grand Bahama to present the Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) with two checks, during the organization’s meeting on Thursday, November 17, 2016 at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant – which is expected to go a long way in helping those persons devastated by Hurricane Matthew. According to Forbes, “Indeed it is a pleasure for both my colleague Sonia Simmons and I to travel to Grand Bahama presenting two checks to the Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) in aid of the GBI Post-Hurricane Matthew Relief Initiative.
Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) Community Services Project Director Venus Hall-Miller recently spearheaded the ‘Drive For the Cure’ Specialized Pink License Plate Frames Project both in support of the fight against cancer and in memory of her mother and grandmother Barbara Francis and Dolly Hall respectively.
The project continues to receive tremendous support and during the Rotary Club of Freeport weekly meeting at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on Thursday, November 10, 2016 Hall-Miller presented a $1,000.00 check to Cancer Society of Grand Bahama (GBCS) President Loren Miller.
Losing both her mother and grandmother to two varying types of cancer as well as several good girlfriends, Hall-Miller chose to heighten community awareness while celebrating the beautiful life of her loved ones by galvanized support through the project to aid the GBCS efforts throughout the island.
Smiles of appreciation lit the faces of West End residents, who were the recipients of over $2,000.00 in Freeport JetWash Co. Ltd. gasoline vouchers this past Monday (November 7) courtesy of the ‘Gas for Generators’ Drive for West End Initiative.
D’s Car Rental proprietor, Darren Cooper and West End native Maybell Bridgewater partnered up in support of residents of the community who suffered severe infrastructural damage to their homes and businesses in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, which ripped down electrical poles and power lines forcing all into complete darkness.
With the electrical supply of West End sustaining serious damages and the timeline for its restoration uncertain, Cooper and Bridgewater reached out to the Grand Bahama community for assistance in raising funds for the purchase of gasoline to power generators at the homes of residents.
Hurricane Matthew proved to be a harrowing experience for many families throughout the Grand Bahama community, especially for those fighting to repair and restore their homes and lives. Three weeks ago, the Category 4 storm made landfall completely transforming the island, leaving many without essential services, including clean, running water and electricity with even more in limbo from a financial perspective.
Hoping to ease the burden of residents adversely impacted by Hurricane Matthew through a philanthropic partnership is the Pilot Club of Lucaya, Rotary Club of Freeport and Seacor Island Lines formerly (G and G Shipping Co. Ltd.,) which has already begun making a positive and well-received impact throughout Grand Bahama.
Marco City residents and Windsor on the Mall tenants extended sincere appreciation to all civic, corporate and political organizations as well as philanthropic individuals on Wednesday, October 26, 2016 for providing much-needed emergency relief aid to families in the community. Severe rooftop damage was sustained at Windsor on the Mall, which is home to 55 families, who have been living without electricity and running water prior to and after the passage of Hurricane Matthew.
Thanks to the generosity of the Pilot Club of Lucaya, Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF), G and G Shipping Co. Ltd., Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) Customer Relations, Kiwanis Club, Free National Movement (FNM) Pine Ridge Constituency Candidate Rev. Frederick McAlpine, Michael Pintard, FNM Deputy Leader K. Peter Turnquest, Grand Bahama Rotary Clubs Disaster Committee and Chairman Jamie Rose among many others, residents living throughout Garden Villas and the Marco City constituency particularly Windsor on the Mall tenants are finally able to enjoy a glass of water, flush their toilets and take a quick bath among other tasks.
Three weeks after Hurricane Matthew unleashed its fury on Grand Bahama leaving many families displaced and without any recourse, several civic, corporate and political organizations have partnered to lend a helping hand to Freeport Gardens Apartment Complex residents as well as the disenfranchised throughout the Garden Villas community.
Desperately, fighting to push through the ordeal and live in the complex that is in a state of complete disrepair, parents are forced to venture out into the city with their little ones in search of essentials like water, as the infrastructure at Freeport Gardens in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew has not allowed for the supply to be reconnected there.
The Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) will host its Annual Wine and Cheese Fund-raising Event beginning 7:00 p.m. at the Grand Bahama Yacht Club on Saturday, October 1, 2016.
Darren Cooper, RCF President revealed, “We want to encourage everyone to support our upcoming Wine and Cheese Event, as by doing so the funds derived (100 percent) would be divided and utilized to assist the Grand Bahama community through the efforts of the RCF Wheelchair Foundation, GB Emergency Water Relief Foundation and the Rotary Wheel Wagon (Mobile Concession Stand).
On Thursday, April 28, 2016 during The Rotary Club of Freeport weekly luncheon meeting our guest speaker Mr. David Wallace spoke on "The Power of Pooling Your Resources". He indicated that one of the greatest impediment to starting a business is money, however he said that this can be overcome through pooling your resources with others of like mind. He stated that for a partnership to succeed there must be great ideas, committed people, like minded people, clear vision, integrity, proper record keeping and prepare for long term investment.
Pictured L-R: President Othyneil Pinder and Guest Speaker David Wallace
On Saturday April 23rd, 2016 the Rotary Club of Freeport held it's annual Past President's Walk-a-thon on Tiano Beach where all enjoyed the exercise, and the food.
On Thursday, April 7, 2016 during our weekly meeting, guest speaker PAG Mike Stafford spoke about the role the G.B Emergency Water Relief Foundation plays in the event of a natural disaster in Grand Bahama. He also gave a brief history of the Foundation and the role it played during the last hurricane on Grand Bahama, providing fresh drinking water to the residents from East End to West End. The Rotary Club of Freeport also made a check presentation to assist with the day to day operation of the Foundation. Pictured L-R: President Othyneil Pinder and PAG Mike Stafford.
The Role Of The Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation
On Thursday, April 7, 2016 during our weekly meeting The Rotary Club of Freeport presented a check Ruth Cadet, Director of Sparkles Girls Club. Ms. Cadet and her team mentors young girls from Primary School to High School in Grand Bahama. Pictured L-R: President Othyneil Pinder and Ruth Cadet
The Rotary Club Of Freeport Donates To Sparkles Girls Club
On Thursday, March 24, 2016 our weekly meeting two new members were inducted into the Rotary Club of Freeport. Pictured L-R President Othyneil Pinder, newly inducted Rotarians Brittany Heath and Llereva Mortimer-Roker and Membership Chair Louis Alleyne.
The Rotary Club of Freeport Inducted Two New Members
In keeping with our theme "Be a gift to the world" The Rotary Club of Freeport donated 18 computers to fully furnish the computer lab at the Eight Mile Rock High School. Principal Ivan Butler stated that they were very grateful for the donation and it will assist with bringing that institution remedial student up to standard. This was made possible by a grant we received from our District 6990 and a generous donation by Rotarian Christina Burrows. In being a gift to the world the Rotary Club of Freeport seeks to better our communities by enriching the lives of our Youths. L-R: Teacher Martha Edgecombe, President Othyneil Pinder, Principal Ivan Butler and Community Service Chair Elsie Knowles.
Rotary Club Of Freeport Donates Computer To Eight Mile Rock High School
On Thursday, February 4, 2016 during The Rotary Club of Freeport weekly luncheon meeting guest speaker Mitch Carson spoke about their upcoming event, Bahamas Social Media Summit 2016 under the theme; ‘Maximizing profits through Social Media.’ Bahamas Social Media Summit 2016 is a partnership between himself, an experienced speaker and seminar promoter who has been on platforms throughout the U.S., Canada, Australia, United Arab Emirates and New Zealand and responsible for placing over 1,000,000+ buying units in conference halls in multiple niches and categories and Mackey Media Ltd. This first of four events planned for Grand Bahama Island during 2016 will feature four international presenters, one Bahamian and one guest presenter.
New York Times Best-selling author Joel Comm will cover New Media, Twitter and Periscope. John Cornetta, who has been named one of the top 12 Internet marketers in the world, will unlock the secret to generating profits through Facebook. Jocelyn Jones of EmpoweredMarketingSolutions.com will present on creative ways to earn money through Instagram. Linked expert Gary Kissel will talk step by step on how to optimize your Linked In profile for success and Mitch Carson aka 'Instant Celebrity Maker' and David Mackey Creative Director & President of Mackey Media Ltd will present on video marketing through YouTube and how to produce for YouTube.
On Thursday, December 17, 2016 during our weekly luncheon meeting we presented two deserving students Chelsea Wildgoose and Sonia Russell scholarships to attend The College of The Bahamas. The Rotary Club of Freeport have been giving deserving students in the Grand Bahama community scholarships for the past 50 years and have spent more than $400,000.00. Pictured L-R: President Othyneil Pinder, Recipient Chelsea Wildgoose and Scholarship Committee Chair Betty Van Lew, missing is Recipient Sonia Russell.
On Thursday, December 17, 2016 during our weekly luncheon meeting the club hosted our outbound Rotary Youth Exchange Student Latess Bartlett for lunch. Latess is excited and appreciative for this once in a lifetime opportunity and thanks the Rotary Club of Freeport. Latess a butting Chocolatier wishes to go to Belgium the chocolate country or Switzerland to sharpen her skills. Pictured L-R: President Othyneil Pinder, Latess Bartlett and Past President Richard Bates.
On Tuesday, December 8, 2015 The Rotary Club of Freeport made a donation (Air Condition) to Dudley Seide & Reach Out Ministries. As the Center is 85% completed Mr. Seide welcomed the donation and made an appeal for others in the community to help. His Ministry caters to at risk boys, steering them in a positive direction by offering a homework center, mentoring, hot meals, school supplies and uniforms. He thanked The Rotary Club of Freeport for the donation and for partnering with the Ministry over the years. Pictured L-R: Public Image Director Oliver Missick, President Othyneil Pinder, Rotarian Vicky Martel, Secretary Venus Miller and Dudley Seide.
Rotary Club of Freeport Donates to Reach Out Ministries
On Thursday, December 3, 2015 during The Rotary Club of Freeport weekly luncheon meeting guest speaker Mr. Terry Miller stated that over the past 24 years, The Bahamas Association for Social Health (BASH) has operated a male residential substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation programme, first in Eleuthera and presently in New Providence. During this period the organization has impacted the lives of thousands of residents throughout the Bahamian archipelago and brought hundreds of families back together from the ruins of substance abuse.
While the main focus of the BASH programme is substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation, our clients come with a myriad of health issues including HIV and co-occurring disorders, in fact at any given time at least 15% of our population will be co-occurring and 30-40% HIV positive.
Due to the difficulty in quantifying the impact of our work as it relates to crime prevention, health, and drug demand reduction, and beyond the fact that we are helping substance abusers and their families to cope, the importance of our services is often overlooked and undervalued, especially in this social environment where there are so many other issues taking precedence in the minds and hearts of the Bahamian public. Pictured L-R: Past President Constance McDonald, Terry Miller and President Othyneil Pinder.
On Thursday, December 3, 2015 during our weekly luncheon meeting Michael Lowry the newest Rotary Club of Freeport member was inducted. Michael is being pinned by his sponsor Past President Len. Pictured L-R: Past President Len, Rotarian Michael and President Othyneil.
On Thursday, November 27th, 2015 The Rotary Club of Freeport donated medical equipment (Suction Machines and Breathing Regulators) to Public Hospital Authority (Rand Memorial Hospital). Pictured L-R: Treasurer Richard Bates, Community Service Director Elsie Knowles, Two PHA Representatives, President Othyneil Pinder, Secretary Venus Miller and President Elect Darren Cooper.
Rotary Club of Freeport Donate to The Public Hospital Authority
On Thursday, November 19, 2015 at the Rotary Club of Freeport weekly luncheon, former Minister and Ambassador to Washington Hon. C A Smith spoke on the Grand Bahama economy and the role the Government and the Port Authority should play to bring about a positive change. L-R President Othyneil Pinder, Hon. C A Smith and Rotarian Oliver Missick
On Thursday, November 12, 2015 The Rotary Club of Freeport was presented with the Salvation Army trophy for the second consecutive year. To make the presentation was Captain Roger Compton who stated that the Rotary of Freeport has raised the most money during the Salvation Army annual bell ringing during the Christmas season. Pictured L-R: Past President Louie Alleyne, Community Service Director Elsie Knowles, President Othyneil Pinder, Captain Roger Compton, Rotarian Vicky Martel, Past President Queen Rolle and Past President Wilbur Major.
On Thursday November 12, 2015 during the weekly luncheon meeting The Rotary Club of Freeport donated $1000.00 to Santa Helpers. This program is headed by Rotarian Vicky Martel who provide toys for the underprivileged kids throughout the Grand Bahama community during the Christmas season. President Othyneil Pinder presenting cheque to Rotarian Vicky Martel.
On Thursday, September 24, 2015 Mrs. Patrice Russell from First Caribbean Bank spoke to our joint club meeting with the Rotary Club of Lucaya about the "Walk for Cure" fundraiser that their bank is putting on, in aid of cancer and cancer awareness. The walk is set for October 3, 2015 at 7am beginning at First Caribbean Bank, The Mall Drive, to the circle at the Grand Bahama Airport and back. Registration fee is $15.00 which includes a t-shirt. Mrs. Russell also stated that all funds raise will stay in Grand Bahama and donated to the Cancer Societies here on the Island. Pictured L-R Othyneil Pinder President Freeport Club, Mrs. Patrice Russell Guest Speaker, and Billy Jane Ferguson Acting President Lucaya Club & Assistant District Governor.
On Thursday, September 10, 2015 Governor Larry Herman made his official visit to the Rotary Club of Freeport. Gov. Larry meet with the Board of Directors where he was informed of our agenda for the Grand Bahama community for the rotary year 2015-2016. The Governor also shared his vision for the District and reminded us to "Be a gift to the world" this rotary year. Present Elect Darren presented a gift to Gov. Larry and his wife from the Rotary Club of Freeport along with Assistant Governor Billy Ferguson.
Governor Larry Herman visits the Rotary Club of Freeport
On Thursday, September 10,2015 Governor Larry Herman installed and welcomed Charlene Carey as the newest Rotarian in the Rotary Club of Freeport, she is seen with her sponsor President Elect Darren. Also pictured are President Christine of Lucaya Club and AG Billy.
On Thursday September 3, 2015 Ms. Philcher Grant and Mrs Nikita Mullings from the Grand Bahama Power Company spoke to our joint club meeting with the Rotary Club of Lucaya on hurricane preparedness and the role GBPC plays before, during and after severe weather conditions. They also advise residents to decide where they would go if ordered to evacuate, have cash on hand, purchase water and non perishable food items, check your disaster supply kit/first aid kit, listen to radio and news forecast, refill prescription, clear yard of debris before the storm approaches. During the storm they advise that residents remain indoors and listen to the radio for weather updates. After the storm stay indoors or remain home and if any damage occur begin repairs to safeguard your home, take pictures of damages for insurance purposes and stay away from all loose, down or dangling power lines. L-R: Dennis Knowles Past President Lucaya Club, Nikita Mullings GBPC, Othyneil Pinder President Freeport Club, Phlcher Grant GBPC, Christine Van de Lew President Lucaya Club.
On Thursday, August 20, 2015, Rotarian Steve Gunn spoke to our Club about The Wheelchair Foundation. The Wheelchair Foundation is a nonprofit organization striving to provide a free wheelchair to every child, teen, and adult worldwide who needs one, but has no means to acquire one. This Foundation is leading an international effort to create awareness of the needs and abilities of people with physical disabilities, to promote the joy of giving, create global friendship, and to deliver a wheelchair to the people who need it. For these people the Wheelchair Foundation delivers hope, mobility, freedom, dignity and independence.
Your support helps bring independence and hope to those who have been deprived of mobility by war, disease, accident, natural disaster and advance age. Together we are making dreams come true for hundreds of thousands of physically disabled people. You can become a sponsor for as little as $160.00. During the meeting three Rotarians pledge their support. Pictured L-R (Rotary President Othyneil Pinder, Rotaract President Cecil Williams Jr. and Speaker Rotarian Steve Gunn). Email us at rotaryfreeport@gmail.com or call 242-646-9165.
On June 25, 2015 the Rotary Club of Freeport held its annual installation of new officers, where outgoing President Queen Rolle handed the gavel over to incoming President Othyneil Pinder. During his speech President Othyneil outlined the following projects for his rotary year: through a District Grant, provide computers to the Eight Mile Rock High School, through private donations provide computers to other schools/institutions in need, through private donation provide health care equipment to the Hospital Authority, continue our commitment to the Grand Bahama Youth Choir, Falcon Boys Club, Reach Out Ministries, Santa Helper , the Children’s Home and the scholarship program. The newly installed officers included Venus Miller (Secretary), Louie Allyne (Treasurer), Queen Rolle (Membership Chair), Betty Van Lew (Vocation Chair), Constance McDonald (Foundation Chair), Gina English (Fellowship Chair), Elsie Knowles (Community Service Chair), Darren Cooper (President Elect & Club Services Chair) and Len Hindley (Sargent at Arms). President Othyneil also challenge each Rotarian to "Be a gift to the world" this Rotary year through one of the avenues of service which includes promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education and protecting children from the sex trade industry.
The Rotary Club of Freeport was abuzz this past Thursday as District 6990 handed down top honors to two of its senior members.
President Queen Rolle was awarded Top President of the Year for her accomplishments this year. Under her leadership the club has injected well over $25,000 into the local community including installing hurricane shutters on the GB Children's Home, renovating the bathrooms and plumbing at the new GB Centre for Performing Arts and supporting other local charities.
Assistant District Governor Mike Stafford captured the Top Assistant Governor award in the district for the second year in a row as a testament to his leadership not only amongst the local clubs but throughout the district. Mike runs the Rotary Water Plant and is Rotary's Disaster Chair for Grand Bahama as well as serving on the District F & P Committee.
Club members are very proud of the accomplishments of The Rotary Club of Freeport and encourage everyone to help others in need under their motto of “Service Above Self"
The Rotary Club of Freeport got a taste of Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival on Thursday, which served as a prelude to the Kickoff Weekend set for Grand Bahama on April 17thand 18th at Taino Beach.
Bahamas National Festival Commission Consultant Ginger Moxey, in her address at the Rotarians’ weekly luncheon meeting at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant, spoke about the merits of the first ever Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival which was a created as a vehicle to market Junkanoo and Bahamian arts and culture, rebrand the country as a viable entertainment and cultural destination and create a profitable industry from which all Bahamians can benefit.
To learn more from Bahamas Islands Weekly click HERE
Rotary Club of Freeport gets a taste of Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival
Members from all the Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama Island came together at Taino Beach Park on Saturday, March 20 to give the community a day of family fun and showcase Rotary's continued service in the community.
James Sarles, president for the Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise explained that Rotary is an International Organization with one million people around the world doing a tremendous amount of service in their communities.
To read more from Mia Whylly of the Freeport News click HERE
Rotarians showcase community programs during 'Rotary Day" -aka- Family Fun Day'
The Rotary Club of Freeport will host its Third Annual Free Legal Aid and Financial Consultation Clinic on Saturday, March 14 beginning 9:30 a.m. at the Circle Mall.
Designed to assist persons in the Grand Bahama community, who cannot otherwise afford proper legal or financial guidance, Rotary Club Community Service Director Louie Alleyne revealed, "Once again we will be offering to the community free legal and financial clinic consultation through this annual event, which would provide attendees with a wide cross section of criminal and civil litigation advice and fiscal consultation.
To learn more from Sharell Lockhart of the Freeport News click here
Rotary Club of Freeport to host third annual free legal aid, financial consultation clinic
Veteran educator, Terry Goldsmith, recently shared his concern over the rising level of violence in The Bahamas, during the Rotary of Freeport’s weekly meeting at the Ruby Swiss restaurant.
Goldsmith, a qualified youth worker and Education Welfare Officer, has lived in The Bahamas for almost 50 years and taught in schools throughout the country, including New Providence, Long Island, Cat Island, San Salvador and Grand Bahama.
“My concern is the lack of respect of young people who have never been taught self-dignity and self-worth. The corruption, robbery, the murders and, above all, the increase in gun violence is so prevalent throughout this country,” said Goldsmith, noting that much of it is by disrespectful and uncontrolled violent young men..
clickHEREto read more from Mia Whylly of the Freeport News
Rotary has power to influence the country’s future
East and West Grand Bahama Economic Development Regulations were the subject of Ministry for Grand Bahama Assistant Permanent Secretary (APS), Conrad Jones’ presentation during the Freeport Rotary Club recently.
Jones shed light on Duty-free Exemptions open to businesses established in communities outside of the Freeport Area, thanks to Government’s amendment of the Tariff Act.
to learn more from Sharell Lockhart of the Freeport News click here
Duty free exemption tool to promote economic development in East and West GB
Look at the Past Presidents of the Rotary Club of Freeport; all these Men and women have rendered service to our community through rotary and continue to be committed to the ideals of the organization, even after 53 years. President Queen chose to honor the Past Presidents of the Club, during the anniversary celebrations. They were hosted to special eats and drinks, and a tribute in song.
Rotarians on Grand Bahama Island have embarked upon fulfilling the mandate of the Rotary International President, Gary C.K.Huang, to 'Light Up Rotary' and what better way to portray this ideal than to welcome visitors to the island.
The Rotary club of Freeport partnered with Freeport Harbour to produce signage welcoming guest to our shores.
"We chose to share this initiative with all the Rotary clubs on the island by including them in the signage so that the greater message communicated is that Rotary has become a household name on Grand Bahama and all Rotarians share in the vision for our organization and the passion of our District Governor, to offer 'Service Above Self'," said club president Queen Rolle.
It is the intent to have a new president at the helm of Rotary Clubs every Rotary year. This allows for variety in new leadership during the period beginning July 1st through to June 30th of the following year. It is every president’s desire to establish a signature project and be remembered by that specific project.
President Queen Rolle and the membership of the Rotary Club of Freeport planned and executed a successful fundraiser which took the form of a wine and cheese tasting earlier this month. The goal was to earmark proceeds from this event to funding hurricane shutters for a building at the Grand Bahama Children’s Home (GBCH), and on Saturday, October 25th, the Rotary Club of Freeport realised that goal when the first of the shutters were installed.
Most countries with failed economies are operating on the Value Added Tax (VAT) System, Consultant H. Rudy Sawyer said Thursday. Sawyer made this claim at the Rotary Club of Freeport’s weekly luncheon at Ruby Swiss where he served as guest speaker. In spite of that finding, though, Sawyer noted that a failed economy is not necessarily the future that Bahamians should come to expect. Concerning the outcome of the January 1 arrival of VAT, Sawyer said it is a “wait and see” matter; one that cannot be accurately predicted. However, he said, the outcome should not be feared by the Bahamian public, either.
To read more from Niaa Lang from the Freeport News click here
Seems like VAT Jan. 1 arrival is a ‘wait and see’ matter
The Bahamas is not experiencing a crime crisis, but a social crisis, according to Reverend C.B. Moss, leader of Bahamas Against Crime.
Moss served as the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Freeport’s weekly luncheon on Thursday where he addressed the escalating rate of violent crime in The Bahamas.
“Crime is not the problem,” Moss said. “Crime is the manifestation of the problem. When you see crime, so many things have already gone wrong. Crime is just the evidence of those things gone wrong.”
He claimed that the majority of the Bahamian population is looking at the “crime issue” in reverse; seeking to fight crime has become the focus instead of tackling the issues that exists on a social level.
To read more from Nina Laing of the Freeport News click here
Rotarian CB Moss: Bahamas experiencing social crisis, not crime crisis
Members of the Grand Bahama Youth Choir (GBYC) and other youngsters interested in performance arts will soon have a place to explore and hone their talents.
This according to GBYC Director Kevin Tomlinson, who after serving as guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Freeport’s weekly meeting, revealed that the Grand Bahama Port Authority has granted his choir access to the Luis De Torres Synagogue.
Tomlinson added that the “wonderful congregation” of that synagogue has also approved the choir’s use of the building as a center for creative growth.
Tomlinson said he is thrilled with the idea of opening a performing arts center and said he anticipates that many residents both young and old will benefit from the facility once it has been officially opened.
He noted that the building would undergo restoration beginning this weekend as members of the Rotary Club of Freeport and Rotoract have volunteered to partake in the remediation process.
The various Rotary clubs on the island inclusive of the Rotary Club Sunset, Rotary Club Lucaya, Rotary Club Freeport and Rotary Club Sunrise held a collective meeting recently to welcome the newly named Rotary International Presidential aid for 2015/2016, Dr. Barry Rassin. Rassin was able to tour the island and the various projects that the respective clubs have embarked on in an effort to make a meaningful contribution to society.
President of the Rotary Club Freeport, Queen Stubbs said this visit provided the opportunity for the newly named Rotary International Presidential aid to see what she and her team have done. “We thought that since he was in town, why not introduce him to some of the projects that the Rotary clubs have done on the island,” she said.
“We saw there was a need so today we’re having a joint meeting with all of the Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama. We have Dr. Barry Rassin out of Nassau who has been named the Rotary International Presidential aid for 2015/2016,” Rolle continued,” Rolle added.
Photo: 'Doctor of Rotary' - Barry Rassin (third from left) with (from left) RCF President Queen Stubbs, Sunrise Club Deputy Membership Billie Bowe and James Sarles, President of Rotary Club of GB Sunrise.
At least 100 more disabled persons on Grand Bahama and neighboring islands will soon be able to get around a little easier, thanks to the Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama and the Rotary Wheelchair Foundation.
One hundred new wheelchairs were brought to the island recently, 18 of which have been donated thus far. Three of these were presented to local residents July 10th on Grand Cay, Abaco, noted Stephen Gunn, Rotary's GBI Wheelchair coordinator and Rotary Club of Freeport (RCF) member.
"We went to Grand Cay and gave out three wheelchairs: one to the clinic there that didn't have any; one to Freddy Miller who has no legs and one to Peter Gardiner who can't really walk or do much for himself."
This most recent community service operation is a joint effort of all the Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama which include the Rotary Club of Freeport, Grand Bahama Sunrise Rotary Club, the Rotary Club of Lucaya and Grand Bahama Sunset Rotary Club.
According to Gunn, the wheelchair effort is not new, but has been an ongoing project for the local non profit organization.
After a near 11-month stay in Grand Bahama, Rotary Youth Exchange Student Katrin Wohltmann will bid her host families, friends, and the Rotary Club of Freeport farewell next week. The 17-year-old native of North Bremen, Germany arrived on the island on August 18, 2013 and will leave on Saturday, July 12.
While addressing Rotarians at the Freeport Club's weekly meeting on Thursday, Wohltmann said her time spent in Grand Bahama has been informative, transformative and truly enjoyable. " It's the most amazing experience. It's life changing. I've gotten to see and experience so much new stuff. Everyone should get this experience," Wohltmann said.
She said she was first introduced to the Rotary Youth Exchange after her siblings participated in the program some years ago. After some research, she said she was eager for the opportunity to become an exchange student as well. Wohltmann chose an exchange a trip to The Bahamas over Argentina and Paraguay, noting that the opportunity to visit this country does not come around very often.
During her stay, Wohltmann lived with two host families Richard and Monica Bates and Erik and Rebecca Russell and attended Bishop Michael Eldon School (BMES), where she was in the 11th grade.
The Rotary Club of Freeport is hoping to appeal to the public's sweet tooth for its annual Worldâ s Finest Chocolate Fundraiser.
The club has been hosting the fundraiser for the past four years and has raised thousands for its community projects in the process.
Fundraising Chairperson Vicky Martel said that she came up with the idea for the chocolate fundraiser four years ago after coming across some memorabilia from her years in high school.
" I was going through a box of old memorabilia and I found this World's Finest Chocolate wrapper. We used to sell them in high school and it was to raise money," Martel said.
" So I saw this and I said let me just see, because we were looking for a project for Rotary that had never been here before,"
She said she was surprised to find that after 50 years the company still manufactured the chocolate bars she remembered as a child.
After launching the fundraiser in Freeport, Martel said she was thrilled to find that the candies were so popular.
Typically, she said, the Rotary Club of Freeport orders 100 cases, with 60 chocolate bars per case. Each case includes almond, caramel, milk chocolate, crisp, and dark chocolate and almond candy bars.
The chocolates are priced at $1.50 per bar and $90 per box.
Martel said the fundraiser helps to raise about $4,000 for Freeport Rotary each year.
" After we consider we have to pay duty... we probably make $3,000 to $4,000 on it," she said.
" As you know, Rotary is a service organization and as a service organization, all the money that we collect we use back into the community. We have to have projects to raise the money in order to give the money."
All proceeds gained from this years fundraiser will go toward scholarships and the purchase of wheelchairs for the elderly and disabled, Martel said.
For this reason, she encouraged those who have not done so already to purchase the chocolate bars.
" Please do not procrastinate because there is a limited amount and we won't order again until next year. So if you like chocolate, get it," she said.
" If you buy them we can help other people. $1.50 a bar may not seem like much but it adds up. When you help us, you help other people in the community."
Individuals interested in supporting the World's Finest Chocolate Fundraiser can purchase the candy bars from Rotarians or Bellevue Business Depot.
Rotary Club of Freeport appealing to community's 'Sweet Tooth' to raise funds
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) plans to develop national parks in East Grand Bahama and on the northern shore of the island, according to BNT Parks Planner Lakeisha Anderson.
Anderson served as the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly luncheon recently where she detailed the BNT's plans for Grand Bahama.
She noted that the BNT has a desire to have a greater presence within the community in order to be more effective in conserving and protecting the island's natural resources.
Finances, family, corporate and criminal law are some of the topics that will be addressed at the Rotary Club of Freeport Second Annual Legal and Financial Aid (LFA) Clinic.
The information forum is set for the Circle Mall on Saturday, March 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Club president Louie Alleyne noting the importance of the clinic, which is open to the Grand Bahama community free of charge said, "It is indeed a pleasure for the Rotary Club of Freeport to conduct our Second Annual Legal and Financial Aid Clinic that will address matters concerning divorce, probate, wills, mortgages and land, employment, immigration and commercial issues.
" Partnering with us this year will be the Bank of The Bahamas, Family Guardian Insurance Company and the Bahamas Immigration Department providing expert advice to persons taking advantage of the clinic.
" Following last year's event we discovered many persons within the community are unaware of their legal rights including the processes and procedures which must be adhered to when attending to all legal and financial matters.
The Rotary Club of Freeport is spear-heading its Fifth Annual Essay Competition offered to Junior and Senior High school students.
The Competition is based on “The Rotary Four Way Test” and is considered the lifeline for Rotarians, as it is a principle by which they strive to live by in their personal and professional environment.
Rotary Club of Freeport New Generations Director, Queen Stubbs, “We would like for students to describe how the four way test can be applied to their everyday lives and demonstrate via the essay, the best use of the saying.
“We anticipate full support of this initiative spearheaded by our Club, as a means of encouraging our children to positively expand their mindset.
The Four Way Test: Of the things we think, say, and do,
Former educator, Andrea Thompson, raised concern regarding literacy in The Bahamas as she addressed the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday during the organization's weekly meeting at the Ruby Swiss.
Noting that literacy in the government school system has its challenges, Thompson said that often times students are left behind due to a difference in learning styles.
"As an educator, when you have 35 children in a class, it's very hard to get to each and every child. In many of the government schools we have amazing teachers, but you have to gear towards that middle child, because what happens is the child that is remedial or learns at a different pace is left behind," she explained.
The Rotary Club of Freeport embarked upon its road safety and environmental friendly campaign August 16th after awareness was heightened over a series of accidents that took place within our Islands of the Bahamas, including Grand Bahama.
“We thought the causes could be attributed to the irresponsible use of vehicles on our streets by drivers, as they are often observed texting and driving, or disobeying the speed limits. Hundreds of students utilize our streets daily to get to and from school, and we know from the Road Traffic reports that within seconds of taking our eyes of the street, the results could be fatal,” said Club President Louis Alleyne.
It was also considered a wonderful opportunity to promote the good work that Rotary does not only locally, but all over the world. To accomplish this initiative, the Rotary Club of Freeport sought partnership from a leading charter bus service - H. Forbes Charter Bus Service.
Rotarians from the four clubs on Grand Bahama welcomed inbound exchange students Katarina Supkasupakova from Slovakia and Katrina Wohltmann from Germany to Grand Bahama on Sunday, August 18th. The two young ladies will be spending a year living with host families on the island and attending high school.
Grand Bahamians Alana Russell and Alexis Degregory are also participating in the Rotary student exchange program and will be spending the upcoming year in Germany and France respectively.
Former Minister of State for Finance, Zhivargo Laing, addressed a large crowd at the Rotary Club of Freeport meeting on Thursday, August 15, at the Ruby Swiss restaurant on the hot topic of Value Added Tax or VAT. Text of his speech below:
Mr. President and other executives of the Rotary Club of Freeport, members and guests, members of the media, good afternoon. I was invited by your president to speak to you about the Value Added Tax (V.A.T.), which, if the Government meets its deadline will be a feature of our tax system commencing in July of next year. I will not be long I promise but I will try to be clear. My talk today will seek to answer five questions, namely:
Senior GIS Technician at Grand Bahama Port Authority, Elise White, conveyed the positive contributions of Geographic Information Science/Systems (GIS) in The Bahamas and the world during the Rotary Club of Freeport's meeting recently.
Having obtained her undergraduate degree at York University, Toronto, Canada, White majored in geography with specialization in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing.
GIS, she noted, helps answer questions and solve problems by looking at collected data, by mapping where things are in the world, quantities and densities, finding what's inside and what's nearby. By integrating hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information, one can easily understand, question, interpret, visualize and share data to reveal relationships, patterns, and trends in the form of maps, globes, reports and tables.
Follow your dreams ... when God gives a vision He always makes provision," says Mrs. Marva Moxey, the first Bahamian to obtain a law degree in Australia, a country ranked eighth in the world for higher education.
Sharing her educational experience abroad with members and guests of the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly meeting, she explained, "In 2011 I took my 12-year-old son with me to Australia. At age 48 I was going back into the classroom as a student, changing careers."
The lawyer and mediator said, "I knew this journey was going to be different since I had to rely on other people's experiences and did not have a clue where we were going and what to expect. My attitude was: it was a new and exciting adventure. I took the necessary steps with the help of Bahamian couple Portia and Dr. Ricardo Hamilton, whom I had never met.
"I was taking five law classes and I had to work and pay my own way through school. Days were full. I needed to pull through. I never looked back and God, faithful as He always is, opened doors for us the entire time we were there. He provided for us and put the right people in our path."
Along with being vastly intelligent, Lancelot Darville, a Rotary Club of Freeport scholarship recipient, is a delightful, business minded young man who will be a force to reckon with in the future business world of The Bahamas.
His track record began here on Grand Bahama. In October 2009 he was chosen as Youth Parliamentarian and Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly for The Bahamas Government. In 2008 he was Interact Club President of the Year for Rotary International and awarded the Powerful Speaker Award by the Catholic Board of Education.
2013 graduate of Northwood University, Florida, where he spent four years, Darville was chosen from among his peers as Valedictorian and Summa Cum Laude.
A Finance major, he was an amiable role model at the all business school, being voted President of the Student Body and asked to return as President the following year.
The Rotaract Club of Freeport installed its new board of officers for 2013-2014 on Wednesday, June 26th at the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce. In attendance were members and distinguished Rotarians from the various Rotary Clubs in Grand Bahama, along with family and friends.
The new board officers received certificates and pins, dignifying their various positions that will be carried out in the club. Representatives from the Rotary clubs of Freeport, Lucaya and Sunset commended the club on it past services and efforts, as well as extended words of encouragement for a successful future.
Outgoing president, Justin Missick, expressed his gratitude in serving as club leader for the 2012-2013 year.
The decline in visitors to the island of Grand Bahama is a direct affect of 'bad' customer service, laying the responsibility to deliver exceptional customer service at the feet of us all, says six year Senior. Manager of The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association and Marina Operators of The Bahamas (MOB), Ms. Shamine Johnson. "If I was to take a poll, there would be far more negative exchanges of customer service experiences on this island than positive ones. A recent labour survey conducted by the Inter Development Bank (IDB) and the Department of Labour showed that there is a decline in visitor arrival to our island - a direct result of our customer service. I could say 'we need to address this issue', but I pose this question: who are the we and what are we prepared to do about it?"
Former senator Michael Pintard recently spoke on the topic of 'Improving Grand Bahama's economy and social condition' at the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly meeting at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant.
According to Pintard, The Bahamas (Grand Bahama more importantly) cannot control the state of the world economy or the adverse affect it has had on our country as well as the decisions made by policymakers after the vote has been cast.
The Rotary Club of Freeport recently held induction for the Interact Club of Bishop Michael Eldon High School.
Several members of the Rotary Club were on hand for the induction.
It was said to be a special day for the Interact Club of BMES as they honored new and old members into the club, the members were told by Rotarian Betty Van-Lew.
To read more of this article from Yasmin Popescu of The Freeport News, clink on the link below:
In preparation for Tropical Storm Sandy's ills, the Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama jump started the recently completed Water Relief Plant to ensure that Grand Bahama residents would not be without drinkable water during or after the storm. Rotarians came together full force and put teams in place to distribute water to those in need.
According to Mike Stafford, Assistant District Governor elect, and past President of the Rotary Club of Freeport, the plant was activated on Wednesday and Thursday utilizing the standby generator to save on electricity and then re-activated early Saturday morning.
To Read More of this Article From Sonia Walker-Russell of The Bahamas Buy & Sell, click on the link below page 28
Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation re-cap of Hurricane Sandy activation, October 24-28, 2012.
During the approach of Hurricane Sandy the RO machine was run for 9 hours on Wednesday and 8 hours on Thursday, which put about 5,000 gallons of water in the tank. This was done utilizing the standby generator filled with donated fuel to reduce any electricity bill.
Thank you to Mr. Tony Miller (Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunset) and Freeport Oil Company (FOCOL) for the donation of fuel and for their anticipated continued support of the plant.
Hurricane Sandy impacted Grand Bahama for much of Friday and into the evening and early hours of Saturday.
The plant was re-activated early Saturday morning and Rotarians began to assemble and sanitize and fill the one gallon jugs which had been collected and stored in the plant throughout the year (about 500 of them).
FREEPORT - Hurricane Sandy caused severe flooding on Grand Bahama that resulted in one casualty, and left the airport, several residential subdivisions and settlements, and some roads underwater.
PRIME Minister Perry Christie surveys a damaged dock on his trip to Grand Bahama yesterday. (Photo/Peter Ramsay)
Although Sandy brought little rain, her strong winds produced dangerous storm surge along the island’s north shore.
The four Rotary Clubs in Grand Bahama held a joint meeting yesterday to greet the five member group of student exchange professionals visiting the island.
The five are visiting from India and got a chance during the luncheon meeting to talk about the many aspects of their country.
The team set out from India, coming here via a short visit to District 6990 Broward, Miami-Dade, Monroe counties, Florida, and Grand Bahama.
President of Reach Out Ministry, Dudley Seide is appealing to the Grand Bahama community to support the organization's upcoming initiatives.
In a press conference held at the organization's headquarters, Seide announced that the organization is continuing its maintenance efforts to the building and preparing it for official use.
Plans for the completed building include recreation rooms, a kitchen, a classroom and a space to further aid and mentor young men in the community.
Mentoring today has become extremely challenging for a number of reasons, Clayton Curtis, District Commissioner for Boy Scouts Grand Bahama told members for the Rotary Club of Freeport.
He explained that as a society, we have become comfortable with the high rate of young people taking on the role of parenting and at increasingly younger ages.
"These young people need guidance and direction themselves and are not quite ready to mentor their own children.
A computerized baby will be the key weapon to combat teen pregnancy on Grand Bahama and throughout The Bahamas, it was revealed yesterday. Past president of Southeast Nassau Rotary Club Peter Goudie and Sabrina Russell-Skinner of the Ministry of Education, Health and Family Life unveiled Baby Think It Over Inc., a program of Realityworks, a United States company that uses experiential learning technology to educate and reduce the impact of teen pregnancy through the use of interactive technology to the Rotary Club of Freeport.
Local corporate trainer and motivational speaker Deborah Pratt, president of DAPS corporate training and business services, spoke with the Rotary Club of Freeport about "The ART of Membership."
August in the Rotary organization is membership month and Pratt said, no club or civic organization is healthy without continuous growth.
Let's get together Grand Bahama, for the 18th annual Grand Bahama Regatta on Taino Beach September 27th.-30th. Yep! Three days of fun, sun, racing, live music, and much more for the whole family.
According to Harold McPhee, Grand Bahama Regatta Committee Chairman, though the cost of such an event is well over $100,000, regattas are one of the few culture/sports that brings more people to the island than any other, even Junkanoo, and brings about a great boost to the local economy.
"Junkanoo is normally one day whereas Regatta goes over three to four days. People, when they travel here for regattas, have to eat, sleep, rent cars, etc. That is the reason why it is a greater economic boost and social medium than any other."
To Read more of this article By Sonia Walker-Russell of The Bahama Buy & Sell, click on the link below: http://www.bahamabuyandsell.com/
The topic of obesity was tackled during the Rotary Club of Freeport's meeting yesterday.
Nutritionist Jourdan Bowe said studies have shown that obesity can shorten the lifespan by six to seven years.
"This is because it increases your risk for a variety of diseases," Bowe said. "In The Bahamas, recent statistics show that seven out of 10 Bahamians are overweight or obese. Thats 70 percent and that's a pretty large number of the population.
The island of Grand Bahama has suffered a great loss with the passing of legendary businessman and noted Rotarian Harold Sonny Waugh.
Eighty-four-year-old Waugh was born in Nassau in 1928 and established a name for himself in Grand Bahama through a series of business ventures.
In 1965, Waugh introduced Grand Bahama to premier construction services with the opening of Waugh Construction (Bahamas) Limited located on Shelly and Milton Streets.
An impeccable businessman with a passion for his country and community, Waugh joined the Rotary International organization in 1972.
Waugh exemplified the Rotary Club's motto "Service Above Self" and his efforts within the club both in The Bahamas and internationally afforded him the distinct privilege of being known as Mr. Rotary.
National co-ordinator for the Global Environment Facility (GEF), Small Grants Program, D. Alexander Stewart shared with Rotarians of the Rotary Club of Freeport on Thursday a number of the programs spreadheaded by GEF.
In an interview Stewart told The Freeport News that the Small Grants Program which was implemented by the United Nations provides funding for environmental groups, and civil society organization of up to $50,000 to undertake environmental projects in their community.
Convinced the Jump Start Program recently introduced in The Bahamas is a good jolt to promoting entrepreneurship, Dr. Michael Peters revealed yesterday why this group of free thinking is so important to economic grow-th.
The professor emeritus of marketing and entrepreneurship at Boston College in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Freeport weekly meeting at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant.
to read more from Ledera March
Eleven-year-old Lashaunna Elizabeth Williams admonished Rotarians to maintain
good character in the midst of economic disparity and high crime levels, as it
will be the key needed to move The Bahamas forward in a positive direction.
Serving as the keynote speaker for the weekly luncheon for the Rotary Club of
Freeport, Williams said "all of the major problems that we face in the world
today are the result of a lack of good character. Last year in The Bahamas we
faced a murder count of 127, what will our figures reflect this year?
Fisheries Superintendent Clement Campbell yesterday issued a warning to fishermen to obey the laws of the Fisheries Act, which were created to help sustain the fishing industry – a lucrative one for the country. Campbell was addressing the Rotary Club of Freeport's luncheon meeting, and shared some recent statistics on the export of seafood products. Read more from the Freeport News
Fishermen warned 'Stay on the right side of the law' Campbell urges
"The world is a difficult place and the
greatest gift we can give our children is the means to live a life of
responsibility, respect and reverence; a moral compass that makes life's
journey less treacherous to navigate." These were the thoughts of
veteran educator, Donald McCartney during an address to the Rotary Club of
Freeport Thursday afternoon. Read more from the Freeport News.....
Veteran educator says it's time to change the 'entitlement mentality'
Clarification on the Road Traffic Department's licensing regulations was provided to Rotarians of the Freeport Club on Thursday by Chief Supervisor at the Department, Franklyn Sands.
Sands explained the three categories by which vehicles are classified for registration, and the difference in the types of weight that are measured.
When hurricanes Frances and Jeanne ripped through Grand Bahama several years ago, they created a dismal scene where thousands of residents were left scrounging for food and water in their aftermath.
The Grand Bahama Emergency Water Relief Foundation has taken a proactive approach to help islanders become better prepared, with the construction of a reverse osmosis water plant on the island.
A joint meeting of all Grand Bahama clubs will be held at 12:30 Wednesday April 26 at Ruby Swiss to commemorate the visit of the Group Study Exchange participants visiting from Scotland. All members are strongly encouraged to attend.
Photos of BASRA's annual beach day, held at Coral Beach, Freeport. Rotary Club of Freeport members play a vital role in the success of this event each year.
On behalf of the Rotary Clubs in Grand Bahama; namely the Rotary Club of Freeport, Rotary Club of Lucaya, Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise and the Rotary Club of Sunset Grand Bahama I wish to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences on the passing of Sir Jack A. Hayward Kt. O.B.E. to his family, loved ones and the management and staff of the Grand Bahama Port Authority Limited. Sir. Jack was a member of the Rotary Club of Freeport from its early days and was made an Honourary Member of that club.
Sir. Jack was a great man and a great Rotarian, and always supported Rotary in Grand Bahama in all its endeavours, notably Rotary's first project on the island - the Rotary Field - which is today known as the YMCA field, and especially charitable fundraising.
His passing is a great loss to Rotary in The Bahamas and indeed to Rotary worldwide.
Mike Stafford Assistant District Governor Rotary District #6990
Grand Bahama Rotary Clubs extend condolences on passing of Sir Jack Hayward
The Grand Bahama Performing Arts Centre will be a place where young people can develop and express their artistic side. It will be a vital place of growth, and contribute significantly to growth of the local and national community.
It was a standing ovation and generous donations for the talented young performers in the Grand Bahama Youth Choir as they performed to a packed house during the closing banquet of the Rotary Multi-District Conference at the Grand Lucayan Resort on Saturday night.
Over 300 Rotary Club members and guests from Florida – as far away as Sarasota to Key West – along with some 60 local Grand Bahamians were vocal in their support as choir leader Kevin G. Tomlinson took the youngsters through their paces.
Click HERE to read more from BahamaIslandsInfo.com
The island of Grand Bahama was buzzing with community-minded visitors May 1-4 as over 300 Rotary Club members from across Florida came together with the four Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama for their annual District Conference.
“All in all this conference was an overwhelming success; our Florida counterparts were overwhelmed with the hospitality shown to them by their Bahamian Rotary hosts,” said Mike Stafford, Assistant Rotary District Governor for District 6990/Grand Bahama and conference chair.
One third of young boys in local government schools are failing at in-house and national examinations, according to Deputy Director of Education – Grand Bahama, Bimini, and Cays Sandra Edgecombe. This is a major motivating factor behind the number of students that drop out of school, she explained.
Edgecombe made these remarks while addressing Rotarians of the Freeport Club at their weekly luncheon at Ruby Swiss Restaurant yesterday. During her address, Edgecombe said she hopes to reduce the number of dropouts by improving the academic performance of the island’s young boys. In order to do so, she said it is necessary to improve literacy in schools, which she noted is a major objective for the Ministry of Education.
The four Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama came together on Saturday night, February 15th, to celebrate their community service works and raise funds to continue doing more in a glittering event at the Grand Lucayan. After a four-year break from holding an annual ball the return of the event was well received with a packed crowd enjoying great food, wine and entertainment under the theme "Rotary Has Heart 2014".
The Grand Bahama Youth Choir performed stirring renditions of both the American and Bahamian national anthems, MC David Wallace kept them laughing with non-stop jokes, the Police Pop Band kept them dancing to lively Bahamian music, and as evidenced by the photo gallery everyone had a wonderful night including two exchange students from Germany and Slovakia, visiting Rotarians from Florida and a broad cross-section of the Grand Bahama business community.
Rotarians from the island's four clubs converged at the Grand Lucayan Ballroom last Saturday, February 15 for the Rotary Ball, held under the theme "Rotary Has Heart 2014."
After a four-year absence, the charity ball returned to Freeport, attracting scores of individuals from the corporate community.
The event serves as a fund-raiser to support Grand Bahama's Rotary Clubs' various community projects.
The Rotary Ball featured performances from the Grand Bahama Youth Choir and the Royal Bahama Police Pop Band.
Rotary Ball Chairman Mike Stafford said he was pleased with the overall event and attendance.
Contrary to arguments that Value Added Tax (VAT) would have an adverse effect on the economy and livelihood of residents in The Bahamas, one banking executive suggests that many citizens can easily adjust to life with the proposed tax.
Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) Limited President Gregory Bethel said that there is a great deal of inaccurate information being spread about VAT, namely what the tax will be applied to.
While addressing Rotarians of the Freeport Club at their weekly luncheon at Ruby Swiss Restaurant yesterday, Bethel said they ought not be concerned about VAT being applied on goods, because few products will receive the tax.
Facing challenges, hard work, sacrifice of time and resources, "Service Above Self" is a Rotarian's mandate and even more so is the role of the President of a Rotary Club.
Celebrating 52 years in existence on Grand Bahama, the Rotary Club of Freeport's (RCF) Past Presidents took to the podium recently at the Club's weekly meeting, to tell of their experiences during their year as President. The first Rotary Club to be established on the island in 1962, RCF has inducted 50 different business men and women of this community to take on the responsibility of leading the organization in service to the community, The Bahamas and the world over.
The mandate of a Rotary Club President is to ensure their Club functions effectively by:
● sustaining or increasing membership base
● implementing successful projects that address the needs of their community and communities in other countries
● supporting the Rotary Foundation through both program participation and financial contributions
● developing leaders capable of serving in Rotary beyond the Club level
Photo: L-R are: AG Mike Stafford; Bert Lighbourne; Secretary Constance McDonald; Ron Carter; Wilbur Outten; Paula Harris; Roger Pinder; Leonard Hindley and President Louie Alleyne.
The Rotary Club of Freeport has partnered with Lydia Grant, a retired Ministry of Health employee with over 35 years experience in elderly patient health care, to establish the Grant’s Retirement Home & Elderly Day Care Center in the heart of the Hawksbill community.
According to Rotary Club of Freeport president Louie Alleyne the club learned about the retirement home from its community service director Darren Cooper, who felt the it is a necessary project for the service organization to embark on.
Grand Bahama Rotarians will host the 2014 Multi-district International Conference for districts 6990, 6960, and 6950, District Governor Ellen Blasi told The Freeport News yesterday.
The conference was last held in Grand Bahama 13 years ago.
Upon her installment as District Governor, Blasi said she made it a personal goal to bring the conference back to the island.
"This is a three or four-day conference with some Rotary training and some Rotary fellowship and we bring in speakers from some of the big names from the Rotary world. I knew when I was selected governor that I was bringing the conference to The Bahamas," she said.
According to Blasi, local Rotarians can expect to be joined by about 500 Rotarians from Florida when the conference is held in May.
Attorney Carey Leonard presents his views on the impact of VAT on businesses in The Bahamas, with particular emphasis on the effect it may have on businesses located in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Presented at The Rotary Club of Freeport on July 25, 2013, and provided courtesy of Keen i Media Ltd.
The Rotary Club of Freeport recently installed a new slate of officers for its 2013/2014 year.
The Board consists of Richard Bates, Membership Director; Len Hindley, Chief Sergeant-at-Arms; Darren Cooper, Community Service Director; Constance McDonald, Secretary; Louis Alleyne, President; Neil Burrows, Treasurer; Vicki Martel, Director and Chief Fundraiser; Bert Lightbourne, Foundation Director and Betty Van Lew, Vocational and Club Service Director. All of whom have committed their time and resources to the betterment of their communities and the world through "Service Above Self".
Mike Stafford, new Assistant Governor for Rotary District 6990 and member of the Rotary Club of Freeport implored his fellow Rotarians: "Each of you has been charged with a very specific task to perform to make this Club even stronger and in turn assist this community and the Rotary world at large. The theme for Rotary International this year is 'Engage Rotary, Change Lives'. I ask that you all remember this as you perform duties and realize that this is not a position you perform once a month at a board meeting or once a week at a Club meeting but everyday as a Rotarian."
As concern regarding the implementation of VAT slated for 2014 continues to rise, local attorney at law Carey Leonard addressed the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday and said his main goal is to inform the public of the harmful effects it will impose on the state of the country.
Carey compared VAT to a tropical storm within the business sector as he noted there is an array of issues.
He said, "Tropical storm new customs management regulations is on us, new accounting reporting requirements for companies, IBC's, trusts and partnerships were the first four Acts of 2013 and they have now become law.
"You must have not felt the effect yet ... there are six or seven Bills out for review, all to meet the EPA and WTO. The new Intellectual Property legislation is forming. Hurricane Value Added Tax will arrive in 2014, leading up to The Bahamas ascension into the WTO, and for sometime after it there will be a requirement for new legislation and new regulations to enable The Bahamas to comply with all its treaty agreements."
Leonard noted that his underlying goal for the fast approaching ordeal is to impart knowledge to the public.
"The main goal is really to continue the education of the general public on Value Added Tax and more particularly the World Trade Organization," he said.
by Owen S. Arthur, M.P. Former Prime Minister of Barbados
In my recent address, as part of the celebration of Bahamas’ 40th Anniversary of its Independence, I called attention to the fact that the environment within which the development of Caribbean societies takes place has been subject to dramatic transformation.
I further stated that countries which failed or showed themselves as being too slow to adapt to their changed environment run the risk of falling behind in the race to development, and, at worst, of becoming failed societies.
This address today draws upon that perspective in offering an opinion on the likely impact of the introduction of a Value Added Tax on the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.
While the focus will be on issues related to the possible impact of a Value Added Tax, it would seem that justice can only be done to this subject if it is discussed within the context of a broader and interrelated set of issues.
The various Rotary Clubs around the world need to let their communities know
what they are doing and how they are helping so that the communities will know
who they are, what they do and help them to accomplish their goals. These
sentiments were expressed by Barry Rassin, Past Director Rotary International,
Rotary Club of East Nassau as he addressed the Rotary Club of Freeport's 50th
Anniversary banquet on Saturday January 28, 2012 at the Grand Bahama Yacht
Club. He began his address by recognizing charter member Doug Silvera, whom
Rassin said, without he and his colleagues 50 years ago, the club would never
have existed. Rassin went on to say that there were three other clubs in The
Bahamas who were also celebrating 50 years – one in Nassau, another in Abaco,
and another in Eleuthera. Looking specifically at the Freeport Club he noted
that their first project was to clean and maintain a field that later became the
YMCA here in Freeport.
To read more from Yasmin Popescu of the Freeport News click here
Come January 28 the Rotary Club of Freeport, the second oldest club in The
Bahamas, will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary with a banquet at the Grand
Bahama Yacht Club.
Club president Dr. Leanthandore Percentie, said this celebration is of
tremendous national importance.
"Throughout the 50 years of its existence, the Rotary Club of Freeport has
made tremdous contributions not just to Grand Bahama, but to other areas of The
Bahamas and indeed the world. For those whose lives have been touched by the
Rotary Club of Freeport, it has made a positive impact.
"In addition to its ongoing scholarship program over the years the Rotary
Club of Freeport has been directly involved in numerous projects such as
Operation Raleigh that exposed young people to different cultures around the
world; the Admiral Lord Nelson which was a special ship outfitted for persons
with disabilities, the Lucayan National Park, the Grand Bahama Emergency Water
Relief Foundation that provides drinking water after a disaster, the rebuilding
of the YMTA Center in Pinders Point after hurricane Frances and Jeanne in 2004,
annual food drive for the elderly, etc."
He added that during the evening Harold "Sonny" Waugh will be awarded the Sir
Durwood Knowles Humanitarian Award by all four Grand Bahama Rotary Clubs.
In a press conference this week it was noted that the work of Rotary in Grand
Bahama began in 1961 when the first provisional club was formed in November,
1961, by 23 men inspired by the Rotary ideal, like every Rotarian thereafter of
service above self. These 23 men believed in the Rotary motto of service, "He
profits most who serves best."
The first project, according to Rotarian Mike Stafford involved the clearing
and maintenance of a field which later became the present day YMCA.
According to the history of the club, on January 25, 1962, the official
charter was presented to the Rotary Club of Freeport. The Freeport Rotary Club
is in District 6990 which includes Grand Bahama and Southeast Florida. The
Charter President was Reginald J. Curtis. The 23 charter members, including the
president were Harold "HAP" Allen, Jim Crockwell, J.T. Edenfield, Brian Ellis,
James Hall, George C. Hust III, Sidney Mahony, Joe McKenna, Collier Page, T.R.
Parker, Joel E. Pyle, Douglas Silvera, AL Soskin, Earl Thomas, John Barber, Bob
Darville, Peter Gregory, Ed Link, John Muller, Ken Piaget, Bert Sinden and Harry
Bowen.
It is now two weeks into the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season and the Red Cross has been working with residents of High Rock to ensure that they are thoroughly prepared for any disaster that may come their way – hurricane or otherwise.
New Providence based attorney and author Marion Bethel shared information about her latest project, a documentary about The Bahamas' women's suffrage movement of the 1950s and 1960s with members of the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday, and asked for their support as she seeks to fund the film.
Club
President Constance MacDonald presenting another cheque to Darren Rolle Director of the Falcons Boys Club. This was the second cheque presented to the
Falcons Boys Club this year bring our total contribution to $1,000.00 for
this Rotary year. The event was the starting ceremony of their farther and son
conference. The Rotary Club of
Freeport has supported this group consistently now for fourteen years.
In July we started a journey, a journey towards creating a new vision, a new vision for the future of Grand Bahama. We knew from the outset that to create such a vision would require more than the Grand Bahama Port Authority and the Government, it was going to require the vision of you in this Rotary Club, the vision of all those in the Rotary Clubs, the vision of all the GBPA Licensees, of all the other businesses in Grand Bahama, from West End to Sweeting’s Cay, and the vision of all those who call the island of Grand Bahama home. You may ask why we started by coming to Rotary? This was not done in a vacuum, we came to you because Rotary is the perfect starting place. Why do I say this? Look at the principals that you operate by, your “Four-Way Test” Is it the TRUTH, Is it FAIR to all concerned, Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS, and Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned? For a truly holistic vision to be created all those ideals are required. No special interest group can do this; it is going to take us all.
Freeport, Grand Bahama - The Grand Bahama Red Cross Centre will be relaunching its ‘Meals on Wheels’ Program this week. In preparation for this, members of The Rotaract Club of Freeport, as well as the Interact Club of Sunland Baptist Academy took time this past Saturday (September 11th) to ensure that all food service vessels and utensils were cleaned and ready to be used in time for the program’s intended relaunch. More from The Bahamas Weekly
Rotaract's Community Service project at the GB Red Cross Centre - Preparing for ‘Meals on Wheels’
Last week the Rotary Club of Freeport had a very educational presentation by Mr McGibbon is a licenced Professional Automotive Mechanical Engineer and President of McGibbon Auto. He addressed the club on his H2O powered vehicle which was present on location for viewing.
Last week the club was visited and addressed by the current District Governor Doug Maymon. DG Doug's brought a message of "Value Added". He spoke about bridging continents through exchanging ideas and sharing resources. DG Doug says that we must ask ourselves what do we do as Rotarians to add value to people's lives. He highlight the Rotaary youth exchange program and Rotary's polio plus initiative as examples of how we add value. The DG encouraged the Rotary Club of Lucuya ooops!! he meant Freeport to always add value and the club will become bigger, better and bolder.
Rotarian Vickie presented the District Governor and his wife a gift on behalf of the club.
This presentation is a follow up to an earlier one titled, "First Steps to a Sound Economic Development of Freeport and Grand Bahama". In that presentation it was proposed that the Licensees should be the ones to review the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, and be the ones to guide the amendment process. In order for the Licensees to do this, it is important for them to have a clear understanding of the Hawksbill Creek Agreement itself. The object of this presentation is to refresh the knowledge of those who have already dealt with the Agreement and to provide others with an introduction to it.
Read More......
July 8th, 2010 The guest speaker of the day was the recent Paul Harris Fellow recipient Dudley Seide founder of Reach Out Ministry. Mr. Seide spoke to the club about his organization who works with inner city young men aiming to keep them off the street through positive and wholesome activities. He gave club members an update of his efforts to take 30 young men on a trip to Orlando, Florida and Nassau to visit Her Majesty's Prison. Mr. Seide explained the many challenges involved in the undertaking and was presented with $700.00 from club member donations and an additional $500.00 on behalf of the club for a total of $1,200.00. Mr. Seide says he does not do this for any recognition and is grateful to the Rotary Club of Freeport and the opportunity to experience a Rotary meeting.
Harold "Sonny" Waugh could have been a success
story anywhere. He was born in Nassau in 1928, did his early school
studies in the capital before travelling to Pennsylvania for higher
education at Penn State. He returned home in the late 1940s and got
immediately into the workforce. Up to 1955, he went about establishing
himself in the New Providence job market, first with the Carlton House
Hotel and also with Standard Plumbing Company. Then came the move to
Grand Bahama and Waugh hasn't looked back since.
His relocation was a blessing for Grand Bahama. Over the five
decades-plus, he has been one of those citizens who made a big
difference in the development process of Grand Bahama.
Click here to read more from Fred Sturrup in the Freeport News
Based on predictions issued by Colorado State Univer-sity's hurricane forecast team, meteorologist Lee Marvin Johnson said that The Bahamas is in store for an "above-average" hurricane season this year, with the probability of hurricane landfall on Bahamian soil at 53 percent.
Rotarians of the Freeport Club engaged in a lively discussion at their weekly meeting yesterday when attorney and former President of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce, Gregory Moss stopped by to address the recent by-election in Nassau.
Click here to read more from Nina Laing of the Freeport News
Although the crime statistics for January 2010 are looking "rather favourable" compared to January 2009, Senior Assistant Commissioner Quinn McCartney says he has warned his commanders that it is still too early to get comfortable.
We are seeking corporate assistance in the purchase of a container of wheelchairs to send to Haiti.
You can help us raise the $15,000 needed to purchase and deliver to our Rotarians who are on the ground in Haiti and know where these chairs can be of the most benefit to those who have lost limbs in the earthquake.
If you can help us please email us at bahamapro@hotmail.com you may also call us at 242 727 1176
This is an update on District 7020's response to the sad events in Haiti, from District 7020's Haiti Liaison Chair PDG Richard 'Dick' McCombe (last updated Jan. 31st, 2010 PM).....(You may subscribe to the blog to automatically recieve updates)
WHEELING IN GIFTS-The Rotary Club of Freeport recently donated 12 much needed wheelchairs to the Rand Memorial Hospital to assist in their health care efforts. Pictured left to right (standing):Harlene Saunders, material management; Dr. Lea Percentie; Steve Gunn; Wilbur Major, club president, Mike Stafford and Richard Bates. (sitting) Harold Sonny Waugh; Nursing Supervisor Patsy Johnson and Hospital Administrator Sharon Williams. (Photo Courtesy of Prescott Knowles)
This is an update on District 7020's response to the sad events in Haiti, from District 7020's Haiti Liaison Chair PDG Richard 'Dick' McCombe (last updated Jan. 22nd, 2010 PM).....(You may subscribe to the bolg to automatically recieve updates)
Dear Fellow Rotarians
Rotary District 7020 Haiti Earthquake Relief Overview
I wanted to share a synopsis of the District 7020 relief efforts as I see it right now. As we move forward we will be redirecting our efforts as the needs dictate, and everyone's input is important and appreciated. Michael Terrelong can post this on the Blog and we welcome your comments and recommendations as we consider and develop our next steps
Jetta Baptiste, president of the Haitian Bahamian Society, took her appeal for assistance for Haiti to the Rotary Club of Freeport on Thursday, January 21st.
After giving a brief history of Haiti, Baptiste told Rotarians that while it is good to give to Haiti, in the wake of the monstrous earthquake that devastated her native island, they should also consider the many investment opportunities that are available.
"There is opportunity in Haiti," she said. "As businesspersons I am going to tell you that now is the time to get involved in Haiti. Now is the time to get to know Haiti because Haiti is a gold mine."
She noted that oil, copper and gold have been discovered on the island and Bahamians can join with the many international groups that are all investing in the island.
NASSAU, Bahamas -- The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas announced plans Wednesday morning for a major two-night telethon packed with celebrities, performers, partners and appeals to raise funds for aid to Haiti following the earthquake that devastated Port-au-Prince nine days ago.
The telethon, to be aired Monday, January 25 and Tuesday, January 26, will be simulcast live by ZNS, JCN and Cable 12 TV from telethon headquarters at the British Colonial Hilton in downtown Nassau. BTC is partnering with organisers to provide a phone bank that will accommodate 50 volunteers at a time along with dedicated lines. Radio stations capable of streaming live will also offer coverage.
Plans call for a two-night drive with Monday's appeals linked to new footage from the stricken area now being shot by a Bahamian videographer. Personal appeals will come from several well-known and respected persons, including Ambassador of Haiti Louis H. Joseph. Entertainers will also perform. Tuesday's event will be broadcast from two locations – the Hilton headquarters and Arawak Cay where entertainers will perform live.
Five professionals from Peru participating in the Rotary Club's Group Exchange Program were on island this week as part of their tour of the clubs in the 6990 District and yesterday they met with Rotarians during a joint luncheon for the three clubs on the island at the Ruby Swiss restaurant.
The Group Exchange Program allows teams of young professionals from a particular community between the ages of 25 and 40, led by a Rotarian, to obtain grants from various clubs to travel to a foreign country.
Over four to six weeks, team members experience the host country's culture and institutions, observe how their vocations are practiced abroad, develop personal and professional relationships, and exchange ideas.
Dario Cox, general manager of Paramount Consultants and Agents, yesterday of-fered suggestions on jump-starting the island's economy during the financial decline.
Cox, who was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly meeting yesterday at the Ruby Swiss restaurant, said that while no one can predict when the financial turmoil will end, many would agree that things will get better.
For 75 years the Rotary Student Exchange program has provided high school seniors with the opportunity to broaden their horizons, see different cultures, and have life experiences that many persons only dream of.
Here on Grand Bahama, at least one local 12th grader each year is given the opportunity to travel abroad, while Grand Bahama in turn plays host to one or more students from other countries.
On Thursday, the Rotary Club of Freeport welcomed back Kristina Saunders, who spent her year in Ecuador, and was also given the chance to visit Peru and Columbia.
"It's a year that will stick with you forever," Saunders said. "It will help you to grow as a person. I know I grew as a person. It helps you to broaden your horizons and become open minded."
During their time abroad, students live with two to three host families, go to school and live life with them. Saunders said she became very attached to her new family.
"I now have a second home," she said. "I had two families that were amazing. I love them as though they were my natural born family".
Gail Woon, environmentalist and founder of Earthcare, is appealing to the government to implement legislation protecting the environment as a matter of urgency.
Speaking at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday, Woon said that as Grand Bahama is dubbed the "industrial capital" of The Bahamas, some industries have been detrimental to our environment.
"The sad thing is that in 2009 we still do not have environmental legislation to speak of," Woon said.
According to Woon, many industries on Grand Bahama were attracted to The Bahamas due to our lack of rules about environmental stewardship and lack of environmental legislation to serve as a watchdog of sorts.
Click here to read more from Genea Noel of the Freeport News
The backlog of passport applications at the Grand Bahama Passport Office will soon begin to dwindle.
Superintendent Clarence Russell, officer in charge of the Grand Bahama Passport Office, yesterday revealed that passport woes of Grand Bahama residents may be coming to an end during his address to the Rotary Club of Freeport.
A local business strategist shared his take on what it will take for Freeport to strengthen its economy with members of the Rotary Club of Freeport during their weekly luncheon meeting at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant.
Robert Millard, of Global Fulfillment Services, said in his opinion, there is a grim prognosis for the future of tourism in The Bahamas.
There are opportunities available for Grand Bahama's economy, but they are not in tourism, he said, at least not in the traditional sense.
Millard said he would buy into proposals for expanding various aspects of the industry such as commercial or medical tourism, but is not optimistic about much else happening in that industry.
Pointing out that the downfall of the U.S. economy has led to a halt in international travel by the middle class, Millard said the truth of the matter is that The Bahamas should look to other industries for profit.
Click here to read more from K. Nancoo-Russell of the Freeport News
Leslie Minus, founder and director of Alpha Omega Christian School, addressed members the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday at the club's weekly meeting where he spoke on the topic "Crime and Urgent Response."
Minus, who recently attended the funeral of Leslie Maycock, a Grand Bahama businessman who was shot during a robbery of his Hawksbill establishment, said he was at first reluctant to attend yet another funeral.
"On Saturday, August 1, 2009, I was in a state of ambivalence about whether or not I could allocate three hours to attend another funeral, although a part of my indecision resulted from the thought that I had to shave and wear a pair of shoes not as comfortable as my sneakers," he said.
The funeral, he said, was like many others – sad and sombre. He noted that Maycock was yet another victim of crime that is running rampant on the island and in The Bahamas.
Click here to read more by Cleopatra Murphy of the Freeport News
With over a century of successful Rotary service, we are proud to be confident of a future in which generation after generation of Rotarians will bring hope to those in need and peace to a world full of conflict. We see ourselves as part of a great Rotary tradition, as links in a chain joining our future to our past. If that chain is to continue, every link in it must be strong. It is our responsibility, yours and mine, to forge solid links to Rotary's future. It is our responsibility to ensure that Rotary will be stronger next year than it is now, and even stronger the year after that. It is our responsibility to fulfill our promise of a poliofree world today so that Rotary can take on other great challenges tomorrow. As Mohandas Gandhi once told us, "The future depends on what we do in the present." If we hope to see Rotary continue through a second century, we cannot simply leave well alone. If the road ahead is to be long, then we will need a map to travel it — and we have that map.
Members of the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday received a lecture on the state of the Grand Bahamian economy and what measures it will take for the island and the country to rise above the present challenges and once again prosper.
Addressing the club's weekly weekly luncheon meeting at the Ruby Swiss Restaurant, Sammy Gardiner, administrator in the Grand Bahama Of-fice of the Prime Minister, spoke on the topic, "What Is Going To Happen To Grand Bahama? We Have Given Up."
The highly debated and controversial issue of introducing a legal lottery in The Bahamas was addressed by a noted religious leader yesterday at the weekly meeting of the Rotary Club of Freeport.
Dr. Emmette Weir, pastor of Our Saviour Lutheran Church, presented his case for holding a national referendum on the issue, giving all Bahamians an opportunity to voice their concerns on the matter.
Members of the public have an erroneous view of the role of the Christian Council (GBCC), often thinking of it as an activist organization, a disciplinary board, or a legislative body.
This was the claim of current president Sobig Kemp during his address yesterday at the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly meeting, where he sought to clarify the real function of the Council.
With only four days left before the start of the hurricane season, chief meteorologist Donna Duncombe addressed members of the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday on the importance of climate change and hurricane preparedness.
Although this year is not predicted to be an active one, Duncombe told Rotarians that it only takes one storm to cause serious damage and being prepared is key.
"Regardless of whether the season is forecasted to be active, or low active the main thing to remember is that it only takes one storm for us to have a bad season," she said.
"We are forecasting less activity, however, it still stands that we have to always be prepared over the next six months."
She noted that The Bahamas has an 81 percent chance of a landfall storm and the northern Bahamas has a one in three chance of having a major hurricane.
Click here to read more from Genea Noel / The Freeport News
Ten Rotary exchange students from countries around the world who were placed at locations throughout Florida will be spending the weekend in Grand Bahama as part of the exchange experience.
The group arrived at the Grand Bahama International Airport shortly after 1 p.m. yesterday and were met by a group of Rotarians, including president of the Rotary Club of Lucaya Minerva Kemp. Kemp explained that the students are nearing the end of their exchange year and were given the opportunity to visit Grand Bahama since it is a part of the Rotary District 6990, which includes Florida and The Bahamas.
"Today we have all of the exchange students from within the district coming to Freeport for the weekend. They end their trip here because they all go back home in June and they wanted to let all the students in the district get together," she said.
Mia Farrow, actor and children's rights advocate, and Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist, are set to speak during convention plenary sessions.
You won't want to miss keynote addresses by two of the world's most influential humanitarians at the 100th annual RI Convention in Birmingham, England, this June.
Register by 31 March to take advantage of special pricing. Register online through Member Access.
Three of the island's leading civic clubs came together over the weekend under the theme "Dreams of a Better World" at the 2009 annual Rotary Ball, where leaders of the community and supporters of the organization celebrated the achievements of the clubs.
Members of the Rotary Clubs of Lucaya, Freeport and Sunrise gathered for a night of fun at the Portobellos Restaurant in the Our Lucaya Resort, where host David Wallace kept the crowd alive with his witty humour and lively antics.
Special invited guest and keynote speaker, Marcy Ullom, who serves as District Governor for area 6990, said that she was impressed with the work of the local groups.
Click here to read more by Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News
Our sister club, Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise, held a steak-out a few months back under the theme "Protect the Protectors," with the aim of raising funds to purchase bullet-proof vests for the police on Grand Bahama.
The event was a great success and Sunrise Club President Tom Leeder was able to donate 101 of the vests to Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Marvin Dames for the police force use.
Click here to read more by Genea Noel of the Freeport News.
Five professionals from the Philippines arrived in Grand Bahama on Tuesday as a part of the Rotary Group Exchange Program and yesterday they met with Rotarians during a joint meeting of the three clubs on the island at the Ruby Swiss restaurant.
The group - made up of Hazel Ludovice, Ma Althea Apungan, Leah Araos, Jonalyn Villasante and Maria Molato and team leader Francis Harty-Aytona - introduced themselves and shared information about their country with Rotarians through an informative slide presentation.
Ludovice, integrated marketing communications manager at Ford Motor Company and a part-time professor at universities in Manila, spoke to The Freeport News and said her experience thus far has been an extremely positive one.
"I would say that it's really a worthwhile experience and I would recommend that others apply to the group exchange program because it's not about visiting the different countries, it's more about enculturation and sharing ideas. You really get to know what the culture is and you get involved in what they do and at the same time it also builds friendships," she shared.
Click here to read more from K. Nancoo-Russell of the Freeport News
The 2009-10 RI theme acknowledges the important role individual Rotary clubs will play in shaping the future of Rotary.
RI President-elect John Kenny unveiled the theme, The Future of Rotary Is in Your Hands, on Monday during the opening plenary session of the International Assembly , an annual training event in San Diego, California, USA, for incoming district governors.
The 2009-10 RI theme acknowledges the important role individual Rotary clubs will play in shaping the future of Rotary.
RI President-elect John Kenny unveiled the theme, The Future of Rotary Is in Your Hands, on Monday during the opening plenary session of the International Assembly , an annual training event in San Diego, California, USA, for incoming district governors.
Bahamian society's apparent acceptance of an environment where sexual predators are being allowed to teach and influence the country's youth contradicts the old adage that this is a Christian Nation, said Eight Mile Rock High School (EMRHS) PTA President Troy Garvey,
Addressing the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly meeting yesterday, Garvey, who has become an advocate for the protection of children, said the extent to which our children are protected in the country should always be first priority, no matter the circumstances.
As PTA president, Garvey said that his administration was faced with many challenges at EMRHS, but it was all for the good of the students.
"We endured infestation, building troubles and some other internal matters, but we tried to deal with everything on the inside before we went public," Garvey said.
"All of the things that went to the media was dealt with on the inside, but we got no results forcing us to put it out there."
Click here to read more from Genea Noel of the Freeport News
Rotarians of the Freeport Club were yesterday admonished to be proactive in the fight to save the island's coral reefs by marine life enthusiast Gary Simmons.
Simmons was the guest speaker at the club's regular weekly meeting, where he explained that too many persons can see the problem and call it out, but not enough of them are offering solutions.
This, he said, is unacceptable and he offered a solution of his own, the introduction of electronic reefs, a marine ecosystem replenishing program which he said has proven successful in other parts of the world.
"The idea is to put in electric reefs, which will basically create habitat and replenish the fisheries throughout The Bahamas," which he said have been vastly depleted over the years by a number of things.
Click here to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News
Crime has become a common part of life for residents of The Bahamas and many in authority appear to be taking a passive approach to tackling the issue, Bishop Simeon Hall said yesterday.
Hall, who serves as the chairman of the National Advisory Council on Crime, was speaking at the weekly luncheon meeting of the Rotary Club of Freeport.
"It should be noted that crime in our society is more common than conch fritters. The root of crime runs so deeply throughout almost every area of Bahamian society," he said, adding that the problem is so far-reaching that many communities are on the brink of complete disintegration.
"Tragically and regrettably, in the face of all this, some churches continue to give emphasis to a completely other worldly message and passively avoid the challenges of relevance and the hard task of doing good to the least, the lost and the left out in our community."
Click here to read more from K. Nancoo-Russell of the Freeport News
On the most picture-perfect, calm and starry night, scores of brightly decorated boats took to the canals of Fortune Bay Saturday night to join the Rotary Club of Freeport's first annual Christmas Carol Canal Boat Cruise. Even boats without decorations turned on their red and green running lights to keep in the festive spirit as they cruised past the two judging stations adding additional voices to the brightly lit big boys who were required to sail by to show off their decorations and then sing Christmas carols for extra points in the official competition. Extra points were also given for bribing the judges with treats. Click here to read more from BahamaIslandsInfo.com
Because of the dedication, hard work and generosity of Rotarians around the world, thousands of children from impoverished nations have been spared the devastating effects of polio, says Rotary 6990 District Governor Marcy Ullom.
Ullom, was in Grand Bahama visiting the Rotary Clubs of Freeport, Lucaya and GB Sunrise.
Click here to read more about her visit, club address, and Rotary International from Lisa S. King of the Freeport News.
The Rotary Club of Freeport has invited public and private schools across Grand Bahama to be a part of its Four-Way Test essay and poster competition.
According to Club President Rengin Johnson, the Rotary International motto is "Service Above Self" and as Rotarians, they practice the four-way test, which is believed to exemplify that principle in their business, personal and social lives.
"This year, we would like for as many schools as possible to join in learning, practicing and living by Rotary's four-way test principles," she said.
"We have the four-way test by which we are guided and it goes as follows: for the things we think, say or do; first, is it the truth? Second, is it fair to all concerned? Thirdly will it build goodwill and better friendships and will it be beneficial to all concerned?"
Click here to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News
Rotarians of the Freeport Club were given a refresher course yesterday on the meaning and core values of Rotary by their President Rengin Johnson.
Johnson served as an impromptu speaker at the club's regular weekly meeting after guest speaker YMCA Director Daniel Williams cancelled at last minute because of unfortunate and unforeseeable circumstances. The object of Rotary, she explained, is to foster and encourage the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise.
"In particular to encourage and foster the development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service, high ethical standards in business, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupation and the dignifying of each Rotarians' occupation as an opportunity to serve society," she said.
Johnson said that the works and ideals of Rotarians should be modelled by all people in everyday life.
Click HERE to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News
LIS aiming to offer students higher level of education
By K. NANCOO-RUSSELL - Freeport News Reporter
As the level of competition within the global workforce and the demand for well-rounded and highly-educated individuals to satisfy advanced requirements increases, administrators at the Lucayan International School (LIS) say that institution is aiming to offer its students an education that will help them compete at that level.
LIS' Acting High School Coordinator Nigel Kirkby addressed the Rotary Club of Freeport yesterday, where he described why the school is able to satisfy international standards.
"LIS offers a truly international education. We cater to a section of the population that are both internationally mobile, that is, here because their parents' jobs have brought them to The Bahamas, and also the local population who are looking for an international education with Bahamian flare," he said.
Pointing out that the school's population is, despite popular perception, mostly Bahamian, Kirkby said scholarships are also available to Bahamian na-tionals if the student carries a GPA of 3.25 and based upon the family's net financial standing.
As part of their on-going partnership with the Wheelchair Foundation and their mandate - to provide a free wheelchair to every child, teen and adult worldwide who needs one but has no means to acquire one - members of the Rotary Club of Freeport and Rotary Club of Grand Bahama Sunrise took delivery on Tuesday, September 30th of 60 wheelchairs, in three sizes, for distribution on Grand Bahama. A further 50 are being sent to Nassau for distribution by Rotarians on that island.
Given the troubling news from Wall Street over the past several weeks, we have received many inquiries about the impact these events will have on Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation. Although our investments have lost value in the short term, we believe they will recover when the financial markets stabilize. In addition, Rotary maintains a diversified portfolio that includes investments outside of the markets that were adversely impacted by recent events. Rotary's investment policies have proven to be sound through past down markets. This prudent management should allow our programs and projects to continue as planned.
On the 16th of August Bahamas Air Sea Rescue Association had it's annual fund raiser at the Bernie Butler Swim Marathon.
During this fund raiser an appeal was made to assist BASRA with funds to offset the fuel price increases.
For those who are not aware, BASRA is a local volunteer organization (the only one)that does sea rescues.
They receive no funds except donations from the public and fund raisers.
The announcement was made by the Chairman Justin Snisky and was heard by our president of The Rotary Club of Freeport Rengin Johnson.Rengin immediately went into action and secured $500.00.The Rotary Club Of Freeport was pleased to have Godfrey Waugh, director and past chairman on hand at the meeting of the 19th of September where the club was able to present a cheque for the $500.00 as our donation to assist BASRA.
We were very happy to assist BASRA and urge any and all other clubs and persons to assist in any way that they can.Of course we live on an island and if there is ever a need BASRA hopefully will be there to assist any and all of 'us'.
At a recent Rotary Club of Freeport weekly meeting,the true meaning of 'service above self' was bore out.The members had seen the tremendous devastation inflicted on Haiti by the hurricanes.They took it upon themselves to do something about it.
Beacon School Principal Sheryl Wood shared with Rotarians yesterday how considerable strides have been made in the arena of special education in The Bahamas and Grand Bahama.
The veteran educator was addressing the matter with members of the Rotary Club of Freeport during their regular weekly meeting, where she spoke on what The Beacon School is offering its students to prepare them for life after school.
Speaking to the fact that some students are returned
to mainstream education, Woods explained that the inclusion is only possible when everything is in place to meet the needs of the learner.
To that end, she explained that there are special programs that are in existence in the public school system that are being maintained by the Ministry of Education such as programs for the deaf at Maurice Moore Primary and Jack Hayward High as well as programs for the blind at Jack Hayward.
Click here to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News
Acknowledging that there is a prevalence of persons suffering from diabetes in The Bahamas, Dr. George Charite yesterday addressed treatment options for persons suffering from chronic wounds that may stem from that disease.
Dr. Charite, who specializes in wound care and hyperbaric medicine, shared with Rotarians of the Freeport Club during their regular weekly meeting at Ruby Swiss some startling statistics about the disease.
"The diabetes population worldwide is between nine to 12 percent and that is a large number of people in the community. Out of those people who have diabetes, approximately 15 to 20 percent of them in their lifetime have some type of chronic wounds," he said.
Click HERE to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News
Freeport Rotarians get advice on treatment options
This year, we have set ourselves an ambitious goal: to Make Dreams Real for the world's children by reducing child mortality. I believe we can achieve this goal, if we focus our efforts and work together. But I also know that at the end of this year, there will be a great deal left for us to do to bring health and hope to all of the world's children.
As Foundation Chair for 2008-09, he has distributed his goals and hopes for this Rotary year:
In recent years, it has become customary for the incoming trustee chair of The Rotary Foundation to establish goals that will motivate Rotarians to action and provide a framework for measuring our achievement.
The principles upheld by the Rotary organization, as outlined in its four-way test, are important tools that can be used to tackle any number of the growing problems facing The Bahamas, Mike Stafford, outgoing president of the Rotary Club of Freeport, told members during their weekly meeting yesterday.
Pledging to carry on the legacy established by past presidents of her organization, new president of the Rotary Club of Freeport, Rengin Johnson, and the members of her board were officially installed on Saturday night during the club's annual installation banquet at the Ocean Reef Yacht Club.
Former YMCA Director Terry Goldsmith believes that if Government and civic society are serious about affecting change in the attitudes and behaviours of the nation's youth, they must focus on a formula that is tried and true - positive sporting activities.
Goldsmith was addressing members of the Freeport Rotary Club yesterday at their weekly luncheon meeting, where he spoke eloquently about his experience growing up as a troubled youngster and the positive influence sports continues to have on his life.
Click here to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News.
In keeping with the traditional practices of the Rotary International's Youth Exchange Programme, the local Grand Bahama clubs of District 6990 (which includes Grand Bahama and Southeast Florida), welcomed five exchange students to the island last week where they were treated to a fun-filled weekend.
The youngsters, who were from various countries around the world, were visiting Grand Bahama along with their chaperones as part of the District's mandate to ensure that all students assigned therein would have a full experience of the Southeast Florida and Grand Bahama cultures.
Click HERE to read more from Lisa King of the Freeport News
The Rotary Club of Freeport recently contributed $3,000 to support international efforts in the fight to alleviate the food shortage in Haiti. Mike Stafford, President of the Rotary Club of Freeport, presented his club's cheque during the District 7020 Conference last weekend at the Atlantis resort in Nassau.
Concerned about the excessive number of youngsters found on street corners and in game rooms, rather than being indulged in wholesome activities, one local businessman yesterday presented a marvellous proposal for a youth development programme to members of the Rotary Club of Freeport.
Huseyin Dengizer, in his address at the club's weekly luncheon meeting, spoke with much enthusiasm about his concept for a project that he said should provide benefit to the community of Grand Bahama for years to come.
Dengizer suggests that the community of Grand Bahama build six sports clubs around the most populated areas on the island.
Click HERE to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News.
Rotarians were apprised yesterday of the benefits of plastic surgery and about how a simple surgical procedure can become a positive life-changing experience.
Veteran plastic surgeon Dr. Kenneth Dickie took members of the Rotary Club of Freeport on a historic journey back to the advent of plastic surgery and the time when it gained mainstream popularity - during the first World War when injured soldiers would return home with battle scars and serious physical defects.
"Doctors were seeing many persons coming in with disfiguring wounds, especially to the face. And out of that came the necessity for reconstruction and repair," he said.
Click HERE to read more from K. Nancoo-Russell/Freeport News
Never before has the Rotary Club of Freeport given a standing ovation at a luncheon. Rotarians rose clapping and a few eyes in the restaurant were teary as twelve year old Alexis DeGregory stood tall at the podium and explained how she and her mother came up with the idea for "Cookie Kids for Kids" to help hungry children at a local Grand Bahama school. Miss DeGregory explained that she and her mother Cindy were watching a local news report on TV where a P.E. teacher, Kelley Albury from Lewis Yard Primary made a plea to the community to help with funds to support children from that school whose families could not afford food for their breakfasts and lunches.
Click here to read more from Robbin Whachell of the Bahamas Weekly.
Long-time insurance agent Allan McEwan, business development manager of J.S. Johnson, reminded Rotarians of the importance of having insurance and warned them about the dangers of being uninsured or underinsured.
The Rotary Club of Freeport delivered a much needed fridge to the Burrows Retirement Home in Freeport on Wednesday Feb 6, 2008. The deluxe two-door Whirlpool fridge, complete with ice and water dispenser, was much appreciated by Mrs. Burrows and the residents of the home. Mrs. Burrows struggles daily to meet the challenges of housing the 12 residents of the private home which receives no government assistance for it's monthly operational costs. Photo L-R: Richard Bates; Past President, Nurse Alberta Hudson, Mrs. Burrows; Home Director, Mike Stafford; President of the Rotary Club of Freeport, and Wilbur Major; Club Board member. Nurse Hudson from the geriatric department of GB Health Services visits the home each week and tends to the residents' needs. She, along with Mrs. Burrows, are two of our many unsung heroes who devote time to those in need. If you would like to assist the home please click HERE to contact the Rotary Club of Freeport.
Rotarians celebrated the 80th birthday of long time Rotarian Harold "Sonny" Waugh on January 31st. In addition to a Rotary lunch honouring him, Sonny was also treated to a grand surprise party by his family and friends.
A veteran stakeholder of the tourism industry warned yesterday that bad attitudes are 'killing the tourism goose' and the only way the country can see a resurgence in visitor arrivals and returns is by tackling this widespread problem.
Anthony "Tony Macaroni" Hanna made those remarks during his address at the Club's weekly luncheon meeting where he shared with Rotarians some of the many 'horror' stories he had heard first-hand from visitors over the years.
Praising the Christian framework that is set out in the constitution of The Bahamas, Pastor Scott Kirkland of the Lucayan Presbyterian Kirk said that although it is commendable, it is not enough to ensure that residents of the country live by those principles.
Kirkland, who was speaking to Rotarians of the Freeport Club at their weekly luncheon meeting yesterday, advised that a religious foundation sets the nation apart from others in the world.
click here to read more by K. NANCOO-RUSSELL of the Freeport News
Dedicated to the very end! On their last night in town, with the majority of the St. Bonaventure group gone back to New York, the students commit to hours working the Rotary wagon at Junior Junkanoo on Grand Bahama Island on January 12th. Four of these students will remain on island for 7 weeks to assist at Hunter's St. Vincent de Paul school. Those that had to return home were quite jealous of those remaining in The Bahamas, while they had to return to their studies and cold climate. Standing in the blue t-shirt with the student teachers is Mike Stafford, Rotary Club of Freeport President.
At the beginning of January 2008, forty student teachers from St. Bonaventure University in New York paid their own way to Grand Bahama Island to engage in approximately ten days of community service. During their final days on the island the program organizer, Dr. Todd Palmer, a professor from St. Bonaventure was the guest speaker at the Freeport Rotary Luncheon at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on January 10th.
Click here to read more from Robbin Whachell of the Bahamas Weekly
A proposed 10-year expansion plan for the Bahama Rock company was revealed for the first time to the public yesterday at the weekly luncheon meeting of the Rotary Club of Freeport, where General Manager Walter Reed summed up the sizable initiative.
The proposed development, which once completed will cost in excess of one billion dollars, will include the construction of a mega-port that will help to bring the Freeport Harbour up to world-class standards and set the stage for jobs and other economic opportunities for the years ahead.
Reed told Rotarians that the largest vessels in the world are unable to enter this region because they can't pass through the Panama Canal. However, once the canal's current expansion plan is completed, these vessels will be able to enter the Caribbean for the first time, but in order for them to dock at the Freeport Harbour, it will have to increase it's capacity some 52 feet.
The benefits to the island, Reed said, are limitless ...
Click here to read more from Angelo Armbrister of the Freeport News
'Tis the season when the Salvation Army's Christmas kettles appear in front of local businesses. No strangers to community service, Steve Gunn, Wilbur Major, and Betty Van Lew were seen ringing the bell on the Saturday before Christmas in front of Kelly's. Remember, need has no season, and the Salvation Army are always appreciative of your donations.
Rotary District 6990 held its annual conference onboard the Carnival Imagination Nov 15-19 2007. President Mike, PP Richard, PP & PADG Sonny, and Wilbur enjoyed the entertainment and hospitality onboard along with spouses, Sonny's grandson, and a host of other Rotarians from Grand Bahama and South Florida.
It was VIP treatment all the way as the Rotary cruise organizers had arranged an early embarkation and gourmet lunch for attendees before the Carnival Imagination departed from Port of Miami on a picture perfect twilight evening.
President Mike and Past President and Membership Chair Richard joined over 400 other Rotarians and their guests gathered in Fort Lauderdale, FL., on August 24-25th 2007 at the seventh and final Presidential Conference this Rotary year -specifically focused on membership development and retention.
Pineridge Member of Parliament Kwasi Thompson is confident that should the corporate community and residents of Grand Bahama form a solid partnership, better communities will be developed and young people mentored for the job market.
A hurricane ravaged building which the Rotary Club of Freeport rebuilt using monies from the Robbins Fund hosted an educational summer program this year.
The Young Mans Training Centre (YMTA) was all but wiped out after Hurricane Wilma unleashed her storm surge in 2005. The Rotary Club of Freeport injected club funds to get the building sealed up and then applied successfully for a grant from the Robbins Fund and finished the building and installed a learning library and computer centre.
The club then recruited student teachers to run a very successful summer education program. Here is their story:
Wanting to do something a little different, and make the event a night to remember, Rotary Club of Freeport President Mike Stafford decided to hold his Installation Banquet on the historic research vessel Atlantis II docked at Freeport Harbour.
Owner of the vessel Gordon Hunsucker, the Captain, and assorted crew members gave tours of the ship, Steve Davies entertained on the keyboard, guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres, a free-flowing bar, and dancing to the backdrop of twinkling lights in the harbour.
March 22nd 2007 has been designated by the United Nations as World
Water Day, and Mike Stafford, President of the Rotary Club of Freeport took this
day to showcase Rotary's plan to build an emergency
water-making facility in Grand Bahama. Click the play button on the video below or click HERE to view the video in another window.
(Part I) Frederick Smith Speech to The Rotary Club of Freeport on The duty free importation, display, retail and wholesale Sale of Goods under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, September 21, 2006
Grand Bahamian Gregg Waugh, of the National Marine Fisheries Service(NMFS), Office of Science and Technology (a division of NOAA ) spoke Thursday, Aug 3, at the Rotary Club of Freeport about the impact of mega-developments on the Bahamas.
SIGNIFICANT DONATIONÂ -- The Rotary Club of Freeport donated $6,100 yesterday to the Young Men Training Association (YMTA) to assist the organization with purchasing much needed building supplies to restore the interior of its community centre in Hunters that was extensively damaged by Hurricane Wilma. Pictured from left to right are Sobig Kemp, Rotary Club of Freeport president; Simon Lewis, public relations director and chairman of fund-raising for the YMTA; and Stephen Gunn, club community service director. (Staff photo by ANGELO ARMBRISTER)
President Elect Mike shares an important discussion held with RI Director Kwang-Tae Kim from Korea about the relationship between literacy, poverty and the family of Rotary.
President Elect Mike and incoming Asst District Gov Sonny spent time chatting with Past Rotary International President Jonathan Majiyagbe. The Past President visited Grand Bahama during his term, the first time a Rotary International president visited the Bahamas.
Visit Rotary.org for interesting and useful links to learn more about and see photos from the 2006 Rotary International Convention being held in Malmö, Sweden, and Copenhagen, Denmark. This meeting stands as the first Rotary convention occurring in two countries and two cities.
The family of Rotary will reunite again at the 2006 RI Convention, to be held 11-14 June in Malmö, Sweden, and Copenhagen, Denmark. For the first time, a Rotary convention will span two countries and two cities, underlining the global bond of Rotary. President Elect Mike Stafford and incoming Asst District Governor Sonny Waugh will be attending.
The Rotary Club of Freeport has donated $8,000 to the Y.M.C.A. for the purchase of much-needed swimming pool supplies and carry out restoration work around the facility.
The Rotary Club of Freeport recently re-posted the memorable Undertakers Love Overtakers sign on the Warren J. Levarity Highway. Special thanks to Past President Richard Bates for his work to ensure this happened! Click the photo to zoom in.
Chairman & CEO of Cable Bahamas Ltd and Columbus Communications Ltd Brendan Paddick spoke to the Rotary Club of Freeport April 20, sharing the companies' past successes and plans for the future in the Bahamas and the Caribbean region.
And a GREAT turnout. About 25 peolpe bowling w/ 6 lanes & at least 8 people socializing & cheering everyone on. Rotarians brought friends & family out. Some family, all the way from England & some friends all the way from Canada.
Nearly 300 Grand Bahama Rotarians and friends attended the annual Rotary Ball held Saturday, March 18 at the Convention Centre at the Westin at Our Lucaya in Freeport. District Gov Owen Freed was in attendance and addressed the gathering.
Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) Second Vice-president Chris Lowe [member of the Rotary Club of Freeport] is urging all licensees of the Port Authority to seriously pursue their rights as it relates to the Hawksbill Creek Agreement (HCA), and form a licensee association to help them forge the way forward.
After another fulfilling year of diligent community work, members of the island's three Rotary clubs plan to come together for the annual Rotary Ball this weekend. In an anticipated celebration of the year's many successes, ball planning committee programme designer, Lee Termath, expressed that this year, the ball is going to be just plain fun.
BIG BOOMÂ - Old Bahama Bay's Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Bob Kramm was a guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Freeport weekly meeting yesterday, where he urged tourism industry leaders to prepare for a big boom. From The Freeport News
Race results:
MALES 5K WALK
The Rotary Club of Freeport-sponsored Interact Club of Bishop Michael Eldon School in true "Warriors" fashion were able to complete their initiative to clothe all 16 boys and 16 girls at the Grand Bahama Children's Home with a week's worth of brand-new clothes in time for Christmas.
"Hats off to our Youth Service Chair Past President Lorine Miller that was there every step of the way. Special thanks also to my staff at RGD and my Warriors class of 93 that joined our Club in making this possible. *Rotary the World Over*!"
Peace and Love are some of the greatest forces on Earth. On Thursday, October 26th, 2023, the Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama, led by Area Governor Othyneil Pinder and a delegation of visiting Rotarians took the administration, faculty and staff of The Beacon School in a transformative Peace Building and Conflict Resolution session.
Saturday, October 21st, was a beautiful night at the Hawksbill Yacht Club for the Rotary Club of Freeport's annual Wine & Cheese event, under the theme: The Perfect Pair. 
From: The Nassau Guardian
In the cool of the early morning on March 18, 2023, score of Rotarians and friends took to the streets of the Taino Beach area for the annual Rotary Club of Freeport's Past Presidents Fun Run/Walk. 
Courtesy of 242 News Bahamas
By: Denise Maycock/Tribune Freeport Reporter
From: The Nassau Guardian
More than 60 participants, of all ages and from all walks of life, gathered on a slightly cool morning at Taino Beach on Saturday, April 9th, for the Rotary Club of Freeport's annual Past Presidents' Fun Run/Walk. New this year were a choice of distance: 3K or 5K and a spirit of competition among the runners with medals awarded to the top three males, females and students. 
Last October 23rd, a flurry of e-mail back-and-forth touched off an effort to transport 25 wheelchairs to the island of Grand Bahama. Stephen Gunn, from the Rotary Club of Freeport, had received requests for wheelchairs for individuals and families impacted by the devastation wrought by Hurricane Dorian in September of 2019.
By: Denise Maycock/The Tribune
By: Jaimie Smith/The Freeport News
By: Jaimie Smith/The Freeport News
By: Denise Maycock/Tribune Freeport reporter
By: Denise Maycock/Tribune Freeport reporter
By: Denise Maycock/Tribune Freeport Reporter
From: The Freeport News
By: Sharell Lockhart
By: Sharell Lockhart
By: Denise Maycock/Tribune Freeport Reporter
Dear Fellow Rotarians,
From: The Freeport News
Members of Grand Bahama's Rotary Clubs joined together to deliver a truckload of pet food and supplies to the 
Video from ZNS Bahamas Northern Service
NASSAU, Bahamas -- From being the first relief group on the ground in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake, to coordinating massive relief efforts in The Bahamas after Hurricane Dorian, and spearheading the world’s efforts to eradicate Polio, Rotary Clubs have long been on the frontlines of humanitarian efforts across the globe. These efforts are supported not only by hardworking volunteer Rotarians, but also by partnerships with some of the world’s largest corporate entities.
By Tanya Smith-Cartwright/The Tribune
It is with great sadness that the Rotary Club of Freeport marks the passing of Past President and Past Area Governor Richard Bates on May 11 after a roughly year-long battle with pancreatic cancer.
By LEANDRA ROLLE/The Tribune
By: FN Reporter Abria Cooper
By Freeport News reporter Abria Cooper
By Marina Gottlieb Sarles
Meet Captain Phil. 
By Freeport News reporter Abria Cooper
News by Freeport News reporter Abria Cooper
By Freeport News reporter Abria Cooper
By Lededra Marche, Authentic PR Bahamas
PARTNERSHIPS for BIGGER IMPACT
By Lededra Marche, Authentic PR Bahamas 
By Area Governor Lisbeth Knowles / October 31, 2019
By Denise Maycock/Tribune Freeport reporter
Photo: Jenneva Russell/The Freeport News
By: Juelanda Thompson/The Freeport News
By: FN Reporter Abria Cooper
By: Abria Cooper/The Freeport News
Members of the Rotaract Clubs of Freeport and Eight Mile Rock reaffirmed their commitment to support the Grand Bahama community through various initiatives. President and President Elect of the respective clubs sat down with The Freeport News to discuss their plans for the future on Wednesday (March 13).
By: FN Reporter Abria Cooper
By: Juelanda Thompson - The Freeport News
By: Juelanda Thompson (The Freeport News)
From the Freeport News
By Sharell Lockhart/The Freeport News
Rotary International District Governor 6990 Drew Monaghan visited the Freeport Rotary Club (RCF) at Ruby Swiss Restaurant on Thursday, July 19 outlining plans for the year ahead. Darren Cooper, RCF president said he is expressly pleased to have had the District Governor familiarize and update Rotarians and guests on the organization’s outreach efforts, as it relates to ensuring rendering genuine, thought out and properly executed service above self, which is its operational motto.
By: News Reporter Sharell Lockhart
From the 
By: Freeport News reporter Sharell Lockhart
Pictured is President Elsie Knowles, Rotary Club of Freeport, Acting President Frederick Potier of the Northern Bahamas Council for the Disabled, and Stephen Gunn of the Rotary Club of Freeport. The occasion is the annual Rotary Club of Freeport Christmas presentation of funds for the the purchase of food items for members of the Council for the Disabled.
By: News Reporter Sharell Lockhart
By: Sharell Lockhart (The Freeport News)
By Sharell Lockhart/Freeport News
By: Sharell Lockhart (Freeport News)
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
Click 
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
By Derek Carroll
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
At the Rotary Club of Freeport's weekly meeting - and Christmas party - at the Ruby Swiss on December 22nd, President Darren Cooper presented scholarship recipient Chelsey Wildgoose with a second cheque towards her studies at College of The Bahamas.
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
We have added a fun new feature to the right-hand column of this website called a flag counter!
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
By: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
by: Sharell Lockhart, News Reporter
By Sharell Lockhart, Freeport News Reporter
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Members from all the Rotary Clubs on Grand Bahama Island came together at Taino Beach Park on Saturday, March 20 to give the community a day of family fun and showcase Rotary's continued service in the community.
A veteran stakeholder of the tourism industry warned yesterday that bad attitudes are 'killing the tourism goose' and the only way the country can see a resurgence in visitor arrivals and returns is by tackling this widespread problem. 
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Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) Second Vice-president Chris Lowe [member of the Rotary Club of Freeport] is urging all licensees of the Port Authority to seriously pursue their rights as it relates to the Hawksbill Creek Agreement (HCA), and form a licensee association to help them forge the way forward.
