Twenty-three sport fishing boats sailed into Grand Bahama for the Third Annual Dana's Tuna Frenzy, which was held July 21-23 at the Blue Marlin Cove Resort and Marina, West End.

Tournament Director Callie Levendowski said the fishing and weigh-in tournament was established following the tragic boating death of Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) fisheries biologist Dana Katz in 2020, and is set around the time of Katz's birthday, which was July 19.

Katz and two other scientists were on board a vessel that crashed into a piling in suburban West Palm Beach in October 2020.

The tournament was established by Katz' boyfriend, Kyle Shea, and brings together her family and friends to honor her memory, her love of birds, fishing and to raise money for her favorite charity, the Pelican Harbor Seabird Station in Miami, Florida.

Pelican Harbor Seabird Station was founded in 1980 for the purpose of caring for injured brown pelicans and has grown into an internationally recognized center for seabird rehabilitation.

Levendowski said that Blue Marlin Cove was chosen as the official home for the tournament, because of Katz's affection for Grand Bahama.

"This was one of her favorite resorts to stay at and so, we thought it fitting to host the tournament here," she said.

"This year, we had 23 boats show up, which was [fewer] than last year when there were 27. But it was a good time all the same."

She said all proceeds go to the pelican charity.

"The first year we raised $7,000. Last year that amount almost double, we raised $13,000," Levendowski said.

She said the tournament not only benefits Katz's favorite charity, but is a boost to the island's economy.

"Some 200-plus guests traveled to Grand Bahama for the event this year. Most of them stayed at Blue Marlin, while others checked into the Old Bahama Bay, Paradise Cove, Bootle Bay Fishing Lodge and VRBO West End GB Rentals," Levendowski said.

"We will return next year, but may look at finding a bigger resort."

The anglers competed in several categories - Biggest Yellowfin Tuna, Biggest Wahoo, Biggest Mahi-Mahi, 3 Fish Aggregate, Deep Drop Specimen, Top Lady Angler and Top Junior Angler.

Participating and sponsoring the tournament for the third consecutive year was Chris Green, owner of USP Marine, Coral Springs, Florida. He said fishing was good on the final day of the event, despite a few challenges.

"The sea was a little rough and there were a lot of sharks in the channel. So, most of the boats went north pass Walker's Cay where the big fish were," Green said.

He added, "Kyle does a good job organizing this event with accommodations, food and on-shore activities. We enjoy coming down here. I bring my whole family."

Katz's father, Barry Katz, said the event is always emotional and rewarding.

"To see all the people that are here and support this event in her memory ... it is like an extended family I never knew I had," he said.

Katz remembered his daughter's passion for her work with the Wildlife Commission, fishing and birds, particularly pelicans.

"She worked for FWC and every weekend she was on the boat coming to Grand Bahama with Kyle," he said.

"This was one of her favorite places and so to witness this, is special."

He thanked all the boaters, family and friends who continue to support the Tuna Frenzy every year.

"It's just a great event that helps this local economy in West End and the Seabird Station in Florida," Katz said.

In the next month or two, Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) will release a request for proposals to have an entity begin a tariff study that could lead to an increased base rate for electricity consumption, but the inevitable decrease in electricity costs as the company converts to burning liquefied natural gas and implements more renewable energy production, which could lead to the company paying off its legacy debt, the company's Chief Executive Officer Shevonn Cambridge said yesterday.

Cambridge, who made the remarks during an appearance on Morning Blend on Guardian Radio 96.9 FM, said a comprehensive study could take six months to one year.

He added that the tariff study would lead to a change in BPL's base rate, which he said has not increased since 2010. Cambridge said at the current base rate, BPL does not make enough revenue to cover its expenses.

According to the BPL CEO, the tariff study will explore new revenue collection models that introduce more rate categories than exist currently, and create a more equitable cost distribution for power.

"So part of the tariff study is also to implement some of the revenue collection or building things that are being done in what we call the new utility model," said Cambridge.

"The new utility model has things in it, like EV [electric vehicle] rates, time-of-use rates, they are all the different rate

categories. Right now, we have basically three, we have residential, commercial and industrial.

"But there are places where they have stuff for medical facilities, they have stuff for auditoriums, like I told you they have special rates for EVs, there are vulnerable consumer rates, all of these things.

"So, when you do a comprehensive tariff study, it's all about making your product accessible and affordable to all consumers. Electricity isn't one of those things where it's, you know, for the haves and have-nots. As you said, it's essential. Outside is like 98, 99 degrees. AC is almost now a life-line product, a necessity."

Cambridge said when the study is done, approval to move forward with a comprehensive plan for BPL will have to be given by the shareholders [Bahamian people] and regulators [Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority].

He explained that the tariff study will simply show what BPL's revenue requirements are, and draw a plan to get the utility to that revenue goal.

"Fortunately for BPL, it's a state-owned enterprise, and we're not a profit making entity," he said.

"So, there's really no markup on it [costs], it's more or less what is required to sustain the utility.

"So it's [tariff study] to determine what our revenue requirement is based on our current operational needs and our capital plans going forward. And then to make sure that the tariff is in place to support that, or able to pay that and in that is also servicing the legacy debt."

The Hon. Vaughn Miller, Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources, attended the recent Meeting of Ministers of High Authorities of the Environment, Science and Innovation of the G77 and China in Havana, Cuba.  During his address of the meeting, he noted that cooperation among member states of the global south was important in achieving sustainable development goals within the region. 

In his remarks describing critical issues the Bahama  Islands face, Minister Miller listed water security, the country’s vulnerability to storm surges, sea level rise, and water intrusion among the areas of concern.

He said, “The Bahamas has no significant rivers or lakes and its freshwater supply primarily relies on underground freshwater lenses and rainfall. The freshwater reserves are limited, making the country vulnerable to water scarcity and ensuring sustainable management is essential. We remain vigilant to ensure that threats to water quality concerns are adequately managed to provide safe and clean water to the population.”

Minister Miller informed participants of the country’s susceptibility to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency and intensity of storms, and changing rainfall patterns.

“These changes can further stress freshwater resources and exacerbate water scarcity issues.” He noted the devastation of Hurricane Dorian in 2019 to some of the islands.

He underscored the nation’s demonstration of its commitment to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals by integrating them into the national policies and development plans, and highlighted the Global Environment Facility Bahamas Pine Island Project as an example of this.

 “This project permits the Government to promote sustainable forest management (SDG 15.2). It also integrates biodiversity considerations and ecosystem services into forest management and land use planning, focused on four main islands: New Providence, Abaco, Andros and Grand Bahama.

“The project is slated to be completed by 2025 and will help us to bridge the capacity gaps and create foundational practices for our forestry management and sustainable livelihoods.”

Moreover, Minister Miller highlighted the efforts of the Marine Protected Areas Network. He noted that 50 new environmental, forestry and marine officers have been engaged (over a 3 year period) to conduct monitoring, research and restoration efforts within protected areas.

He said Coastal Wetlands play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and have a significant correlation with climate change dynamics.

“They are among the most productive ecosystems on earth and act as large carbon sinks, meaning that they absorb and store significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. They are found in our mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows. These areas are the interface of land and sea. They also store substantial amounts of carbon, both in their living biomass and in the sediments beneath them.”

Furthermore, Minister Miller underscored that it is time for developing countries to harness their assets via the Carbon Credits Industry as “the majority of member states in the global south are not emitters.”

“Conserving and restoring wetlands are crucial strategies for mitigating climate change. Preserving intact wetland ecosystems and implementing sustainable management practices can help maintain their role as carbon sinks, as well as support biodiversity, improve water quality and provide valuable ecosystem services for both human and wildlife.”

Minister Miller told the Meeting that The Bahamas accepts that partnership is a crucial element to development.

“Some would say that partnership makes miracles happen. Although we are doing well, there is still much more that needs to be done and we cannot do it all by ourselves.

“Even with our best efforts, our capacity to manage, protect and enforce the areas remain limited. We recognize the significance of South-South cooperation for member states of the global south, and together we can achieve sustainable development target goals within the region.”

The Hon. Vaughn Miller, Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources, attended the recent Meeting of Ministers of High Authorities of the Environment, Science and Innovation of the G77 and China in Havana, Cuba.  During his address of the meeting, he noted that cooperation among member states of the global south was important in achieving sustainable development goals within the region.   In his remarks describing critical issues the Bahama  Islands face, Minister Miller listed water security, the country’s vulnerability to storm surges, sea level rise, and water intrusion among the areas of concern. He said, “The Bahamas has no significant rivers or lakes and its freshwater supply primarily relies on underground freshwater lenses and rainfall. The freshwater reserves are limited, making the country vulnerable to water scarcity and ensuring sustainable management is essential. We remain vigilant to ensure that threats to water quality concerns are adequately managed to provide safe and clean water to the population.” Minister Miller informed participants of the country’s susceptibility to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, increased frequency and intensity of storms, and changing rainfall patterns.   “These changes can further stress freshwater resources and exacerbate water scarcity issues.” He noted the devastation of Hurricane Dorian in 2019 to some of the islands.   He underscored the nation’s demonstration of its commitment to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals by integrating them into the national policies and development plans, and highlighted the Global Environment Facility Bahamas Pine Island Project as an example of this.  “This project permits the Government to promote sustainable forest management (SDG 15.2). It also integrates biodiversity considerations and ecosystem services into forest management and land use planning, focused on four main islands: New Providence, Abaco, Andros and Grand Bahama.   “The project is slated to be completed by 2025 and will help us to bridge the capacity gaps and create foundational practices for our forestry management and sustainable livelihoods.” Moreover, Minister Miller highlighted the efforts of the Marine Protected Areas Network. He noted that 50 new environmental, forestry and marine officers have been engaged (over a 3 year period) to conduct monitoring, research and restoration efforts within protected areas. He said Coastal Wetlands play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and have a significant correlation with climate change dynamics. “They are among the most productive ecosystems on earth and act as large carbon sinks, meaning that they absorb and store significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. They are found in our mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows. These areas are the interface of land and sea. They also store substantial amounts of carbon, both in their living biomass and in the sediments beneath them.” Furthermore, Minister Miller underscored that it is time for developing countries to harness their assets via the Carbon Credits Industry as “the majority of member states in the global south are not emitters.”   “Conserving and restoring wetlands are crucial strategies for mitigating climate change. Preserving intact wetland ecosystems and implementing sustainable management practices can help maintain their role as carbon sinks, as well as support biodiversity, improve water quality and provide valuable ecosystem services for both human and wildlife.” Minister Miller told the Meeting that The Bahamas accepts that partnership is a crucial element to development. “Some would say that partnership makes miracles happen. Although we are doing well, there is still much more that needs to be done and we cannot do it all by ourselves.   “Even with our best efforts, our capacity to manage, protect and enforce the areas remain limited. We recognize the significance of South-South cooperation for member states of the global south, and together we can achieve sustainable development target goals within the region.”

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), the non-profit organization that manages the country's national parks, is celebrating a double milestone this July with a special campaign: "National Parks, Bahamian Pride.” This initiative honours the 50th anniversary of The Bahamas' Independence and the 64th anniversary of the BNT's establishment.

Glinton Sweeting O’Brien Counsel & Attorneys-at-Law (GSO) donated $50,000 as a leading gift to officially launch the campaign. The tremendous donation will go directly towards the management and upkeep of national parks, and hopefully inspire other individuals and corporates to support the campaign as well.

"The same robust spirit of independence that led to the birth of our nation also drives our commitment to conserving our national parks," said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, BNT Executive Director. "As we celebrate our country's 50th anniversary, we also mark 64 years of tireless efforts to protect our natural heritage."

The "National Parks, Bahamian Pride" campaign aims to raise public awareness of the significant role national parks play in preserving Bahamian culture, heritage, and traditions, and to raise funds to support their continued maintenance and preservation. 

"Our national parks are living museums, preserving the rich history, vibrant heritage, and proud traditions that make us uniquely Bahamian," Anderson-Rolle added. "Celebrating 50 years of Independence and 64 years of the BNT is a tribute to the spirit of the Bahamian people — free, resilient, and fiercely protective of our natural heritage.”

In addition to fundraising, the BNT will be offering free entry days to various national parks during national Bahamian holidays, starting with Whit Monday in August. This promotion offers Bahamians a chance to appreciate the beauty and diversity of The Bahamas' natural environments by visiting their national parks. 

The BNT invites all Bahamians and visitors to express their national pride by participating in the campaign, visiting their national parks, and donating towards their upkeep. By supporting the BNT's work, individuals can contribute to the preservation of The Bahamas' natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.

For more information about the "National Parks, Bahamian Pride" campaign, or to make a donation, visit www.bnt.bs.

To learn more about the role the BNT plays in managing terrestrial and marine national parks, conserving wildlife, and informing environmental policy, visit its website: www.bnt.bs and follow/subscribe to its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), the non-profit organization that manages the country's national parks, is celebrating a double milestone this July with a special campaign: "National Parks, Bahamian Pride.” This initiative honours the 50th anniversary of The Bahamas' Independence and the 64th anniversary of the BNT's establishment. Glinton Sweeting O’Brien Counsel & Attorneys-at-Law (GSO) donated $50,000 as a leading gift to officially launch the campaign. The tremendous donation will go directly towards the management and upkeep of national parks, and hopefully inspire other individuals and corporates to support the campaign as well. "The same robust spirit of independence that led to the birth of our nation also drives our commitment to conserving our national parks," said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, BNT Executive Director. "As we celebrate our country's 50th anniversary, we also mark 64 years of tireless efforts to protect our natural heritage." The "National Parks, Bahamian Pride" campaign aims to raise public awareness of the significant role national parks play in preserving Bahamian culture, heritage, and traditions, and to raise funds to support their continued maintenance and preservation.  "Our national parks are living museums, preserving the rich history, vibrant heritage, and proud traditions that make us uniquely Bahamian," Anderson-Rolle added. "Celebrating 50 years of Independence and 64 years of the BNT is a tribute to the spirit of the Bahamian people — free, resilient, and fiercely protective of our natural heritage.” In addition to fundraising, the BNT will be offering free entry days to various national parks during national Bahamian holidays, starting with Whit Monday in August. This promotion offers Bahamians a chance to appreciate the beauty and diversity of The Bahamas' natural environments by visiting their national parks.  The BNT invites all Bahamians and visitors to express their national pride by participating in the campaign, visiting their national parks, and donating towards their upkeep. By supporting the BNT's work, individuals can contribute to the preservation of The Bahamas' natural beauty for future generations to enjoy. For more information about the "National Parks, Bahamian Pride" campaign, or to make a donation, visit www.bnt.bs. To learn more about the role the BNT plays in managing terrestrial and marine national parks, conserving wildlife, and informing environmental policy, visit its website: www.bnt.bs and follow/subscribe to its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.