Work began this week on the $1.5 million cargo shipping dock area of Big Sampson Cay, paving the way for roll-on, roll-off (roro) vessels to deliver and offload goods and supplies for the construction of the planned Turtlegrass Resort & Island Club.

“We are very pleased to report that every aspect of the roro project is being done by Bahamians,” said Bob Coughlin. “We have contracted with CMS Marine Construction which brought in the barge, tow, heavy equipment and a full crew from Spanish Wells and Eleuthera.”

Coughlin said CMS Marine Construction was selected because its owner, Bruce Wilson, understood the importance of protecting the marine environment while engaging in activity that touched it.

“They know and easily agreed to the strict guidelines and protocol of the job, objective - careful handling of any displaced materials so as not to disturb existing marine life and careful restoration of any upland impact,” Coughlin explained.

According to Coughlin, who plans to leave 90% of the 121 acres of Big Sampson Cay in a natural state or dedicated to sustainability, preserving the beauty of Exuma, known as the boating capital of The Bahamas, while making it accessible for others to enjoy is top priority.

“These are the most beautiful waters in the world, and islands like Big Sampson Cay are national treasures that should be treated with great respect,” said Coughlin, who is also founder and president of the non-profit Friends of Exuma. Last week, the Bahamas National Trust credited Friends of Exuma with helping to underwrite the partnership between Elizabeth Harbour and Moriah Harbour National Park that will restore the health of the harbour. Part of that campaign involves installation of dozens of mooring buoys, lessening the danger to marine life by the hundreds of vessels who anchor in the harbour riding out the winter.

Work on the roro docking facility will wrap up by the end of January, and assuming resolution can be reached with the government on certain matters impacting the development, construction of the first phase of the $50 million Turtlegrass Resort & Island Club should begin in early 2024.

At a launch event in October, the project was heralded as “the kind of development The Bahamas needs,” by State Minister of Environment Zane Lightbourne. And the former Executive Director of the Bahamas National Trust, Eric Carey, said Turtlegrass Resort & Island Club should be used as a model for Family Island resorts going forward. Plans call for a low-rise, low density, Bahamian style traditional cottages, a central pavilion overlooking the sea, fine culinary experiences highlighted by fresh food and produce grown or raised on property and freshly caught and locally sourced fish. Coughlin says he would like to see the site become the host for an annual marine environment conference. 

Work began this week on the $1.5 million cargo shipping dock area of Big Sampson Cay, paving the way for roll-on, roll-off (roro) vessels to deliver and offload goods and supplies for the construction of the planned Turtlegrass Resort & Island Club. “We are very pleased to report that every aspect of the roro project is being done by Bahamians,” said Bob Coughlin. “We have contracted with CMS Marine Construction which brought in the barge, tow, heavy equipment and a full crew from Spanish Wells and Eleuthera.” Coughlin said CMS Marine Construction was selected because its owner, Bruce Wilson, understood the importance of protecting the marine environment while engaging in activity that touched it. “They know and easily agreed to the strict guidelines and protocol of the job, objective - careful handling of any displaced materials so as not to disturb existing marine life and careful restoration of any upland impact,” Coughlin explained. According to Coughlin, who plans to leave 90% of the 121 acres of Big Sampson Cay in a natural state or dedicated to sustainability, preserving the beauty of Exuma, known as the boating capital of The Bahamas, while making it accessible for others to enjoy is top priority. “These are the most beautiful waters in the world, and islands like Big Sampson Cay are national treasures that should be treated with great respect,” said Coughlin, who is also founder and president of the non-profit Friends of Exuma. Last week, the Bahamas National Trust credited Friends of Exuma with helping to underwrite the partnership between Elizabeth Harbour and Moriah Harbour National Park that will restore the health of the harbour. Part of that campaign involves installation of dozens of mooring buoys, lessening the danger to marine life by the hundreds of vessels who anchor in the harbour riding out the winter. Work on the roro docking facility will wrap up by the end of January, and assuming resolution can be reached with the government on certain matters impacting the development, construction of the first phase of the $50 million Turtlegrass Resort & Island Club should begin in early 2024. At a launch event in October, the project was heralded as “the kind of development The Bahamas needs,” by State Minister of Environment Zane Lightbourne. And the former Executive Director of the Bahamas National Trust, Eric Carey, said Turtlegrass Resort & Island Club should be used as a model for Family Island resorts going forward. Plans call for a low-rise, low density, Bahamian style traditional cottages, a central pavilion overlooking the sea, fine culinary experiences highlighted by fresh food and produce grown or raised on property and freshly caught and locally sourced fish. Coughlin says he would like to see the site become the host for an annual marine environment conference. 

Next year’s Red Cross Ball, slated for January 27th is being dubbed by planners as “the best to come,” with organizers set to celebrate the Ball’s 50th anniversary as BTC serves as a $30,000 title sponsor.

The highly anticipated event will be held at the Baha Mar Resort, under the theme, “50 Shades of Red, a Golden Celebration”.

“The Bahamas Red Cross is an organization whose outreach spans far and wide, and our corporate social responsibility efforts have always extended to the Red Cross, whether it’s assisting them after a hurricane or supporting their initiatives, we ensure that we are always there to lend a hand,” said BTC’s CEO Sameer Bhatti.

Continued Bhatti: “We are more than delighted to serve as the title sponsor for the upcoming 50th Ball, we are looking forward to supporting what we know will be a grand celebration of five decades of service to the Bahamian people.”

Alicia Pinder, Director General of The Bahamas Red Cross said the Ball Committee is thrilled to have BTC serve once again as the title sponsor.

“We are just thrilled because BTC has really helped us in such a wonderful way to get our Ball event started,” Pinder said. “Last year the sponsorship was $20,000 and they have moved this up to $30,000, so we are grateful that BTC can continue to support us in this way.”

Continued Pinder: “Looking at all the things that we must do, we will always need support, and BTC has accepted the call once again to be our title sponsor. This is so important because we had one or two setbacks this year and we do need the support of our generous corporate sponsors such as BTC. We depend on corporate sponsorship as that is the key to helping us achieve more and do more. We have big goals, but our greatest limitation is always funding.”

Pinder said next year’s Ball will be memorable as the Committee plans to “pull out all the stops” to ensure that the event is exciting.

“We will have great entertainment, the best menu, and many gifts and surprises,” she said. “Attendees will have a chance to win bigger and better prizes as well as take part in a silent auction. It will be super!”

The Ball will feature special performances by The Royal Bahamas Police Force Pop Band, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Pop Band, the Rhythm Band, DMac, and Nishie LS.

In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, the Ball will also feature a silent auction where a brand new 2024 BYD Yuan Plus, an electric SUV, will be offered.

A pre-ball platinum reception will be held at Government House on January 11th. The reception will recognize volunteers and businesses who have assisted the Red Cross over the years.

The corporate honoree for next year’s Ball is Commonwealth Brewery. The individual honoree is Mr. Craig Gomez, past president of The Bahamas Red Cross Society.

Next year’s Red Cross Ball, slated for January 27th is being dubbed by planners as “the best to come,” with organizers set to celebrate the Ball’s 50th anniversary as BTC serves as a $30,000 title sponsor. The highly anticipated event will be held at the Baha Mar Resort, under the theme, “50 Shades of Red, a Golden Celebration”. “The Bahamas Red Cross is an organization whose outreach spans far and wide, and our corporate social responsibility efforts have always extended to the Red Cross, whether it’s assisting them after a hurricane or supporting their initiatives, we ensure that we are always there to lend a hand,” said BTC’s CEO Sameer Bhatti. Continued Bhatti: “We are more than delighted to serve as the title sponsor for the upcoming 50th Ball, we are looking forward to supporting what we know will be a grand celebration of five decades of service to the Bahamian people.” Alicia Pinder, Director General of The Bahamas Red Cross said the Ball Committee is thrilled to have BTC serve once again as the title sponsor. “We are just thrilled because BTC has really helped us in such a wonderful way to get our Ball event started,” Pinder said. “Last year the sponsorship was $20,000 and they have moved this up to $30,000, so we are grateful that BTC can continue to support us in this way.” Continued Pinder: “Looking at all the things that we must do, we will always need support, and BTC has accepted the call once again to be our title sponsor. This is so important because we had one or two setbacks this year and we do need the support of our generous corporate sponsors such as BTC. We depend on corporate sponsorship as that is the key to helping us achieve more and do more. We have big goals, but our greatest limitation is always funding.” Pinder said next year’s Ball will be memorable as the Committee plans to “pull out all the stops” to ensure that the event is exciting. “We will have great entertainment, the best menu, and many gifts and surprises,” she said. “Attendees will have a chance to win bigger and better prizes as well as take part in a silent auction. It will be super!” The Ball will feature special performances by The Royal Bahamas Police Force Pop Band, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Pop Band, the Rhythm Band, DMac, and Nishie LS. In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, the Ball will also feature a silent auction where a brand new 2024 BYD Yuan Plus, an electric SUV, will be offered. A pre-ball platinum reception will be held at Government House on January 11th. The reception will recognize volunteers and businesses who have assisted the Red Cross over the years. The corporate honoree for next year’s Ball is Commonwealth Brewery. The individual honoree is Mr. Craig Gomez, past president of The Bahamas Red Cross Society.

During the month of October, Jimmy's Wines & Spirits (JWS) reprised its role as a critical supporter in the fight against cancer, partnering with the Cancer Society of The Bahamas on a nationwide Drink Pink Campaign” that raised $3,500 to support the organization’s crucial initiatives.

“This isn't the first time Jimmy's Wines & Spirits has partnered with the Cancer Society and it definitely won’t be the last,” explained Senior Brand Manager Joel Smith. “Our partnership with them goes back quite a few years now and it’s really indicative of our commitment as a truly Bahamian brand to support initiatives that truly improve the lives of Bahamians,” he said.

For nearly 50 years, the Cancer Society of The Bahamas has been a stalwart in the global fight to raise awareness on the prevention and treatment of the disease. Locally its advocacy and activism has provided invaluable resources for patients and their families.

During the month of October, one dollar from the proceeds of every pink bottle sold in every Jimmy’s location across the country was set aside. Renowned brands, including Beefeater’s Pink Gin, La Crema Rose, and of course, the brewery's truly Bahamian Radler, Sands Pink Grapefruit, were all included in the effort.

Susan Warren said, “The donation of $3,500 is a testament to the generosity of Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits and its loyal customers.” A check was presented to the Cancer Society of The Bahamas, on November 27, just in time for the start of the holiday season. The funds, officials say, have been earmarked to further the organization's efforts, including providing housing assistance to family island residents undergoing treatment here in New Providence.

Cancer Society Administrator Errin Storr noted, “This donation will greatly impact the Cancer Caring Center where we have persons from the family islands that stay here free of charge while they’re undergoing treatment. With this donation it will really help a few families that stay here to rest comfortably in our nice, clean, and peaceful surroundings. We thank you so much for this; I know it will put a smile on a few families' faces that stay here and recuperate from cancer. “

Sadly, the fight against cancer continues, but Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits Executive Marketing Manager Wellington Seymour says they will be there to assist. "Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits is more than a brand; we pride ourselves on also being able to align ourselves with causes that make a real impact as well. We believe in supporting organizations like the Cancer Society of The Bahamas to improve the quality of life for all Bahamians."

During the month of October, Jimmy's Wines & Spirits (JWS) reprised its role as a critical supporter in the fight against cancer, partnering with the Cancer Society of The Bahamas on a nationwide Drink Pink Campaign” that raised $3,500 to support the organization’s crucial initiatives. “This isn't the first time Jimmy's Wines & Spirits has partnered with the Cancer Society and it definitely won’t be the last,” explained Senior Brand Manager Joel Smith. “Our partnership with them goes back quite a few years now and it’s really indicative of our commitment as a truly Bahamian brand to support initiatives that truly improve the lives of Bahamians,” he said. For nearly 50 years, the Cancer Society of The Bahamas has been a stalwart in the global fight to raise awareness on the prevention and treatment of the disease. Locally its advocacy and activism has provided invaluable resources for patients and their families. During the month of October, one dollar from the proceeds of every pink bottle sold in every Jimmy’s location across the country was set aside. Renowned brands, including Beefeater’s Pink Gin, La Crema Rose, and of course, the brewery's truly Bahamian Radler, Sands Pink Grapefruit, were all included in the effort. Susan Warren said, “The donation of $3,500 is a testament to the generosity of Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits and its loyal customers.” A check was presented to the Cancer Society of The Bahamas, on November 27, just in time for the start of the holiday season. The funds, officials say, have been earmarked to further the organization's efforts, including providing housing assistance to family island residents undergoing treatment here in New Providence. Cancer Society Administrator Errin Storr noted, “This donation will greatly impact the Cancer Caring Center where we have persons from the family islands that stay here free of charge while they’re undergoing treatment. With this donation it will really help a few families that stay here to rest comfortably in our nice, clean, and peaceful surroundings. We thank you so much for this; I know it will put a smile on a few families' faces that stay here and recuperate from cancer. “ Sadly, the fight against cancer continues, but Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits Executive Marketing Manager Wellington Seymour says they will be there to assist. "Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits is more than a brand; we pride ourselves on also being able to align ourselves with causes that make a real impact as well. We believe in supporting organizations like the Cancer Society of The Bahamas to improve the quality of life for all Bahamians."

The beautiful real estate properties of The Bahamas were on full display during the 2023 Canadian International Property Show in Toronto, Canada, where HG Christie Real Estate Agent and Relocation Specialist Rosalyn Brown shared some of the top real estate options available for purchase throughout our islands.

Property developers, financiers, promoters and other real estate firms from around the globe were exhibited during this year’s event in late October, where properties in The Bahamas joined the ranks of other high-end options from Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, USA and other Caribbean destinations.

“I think that by showcasing HG Christie & Christie's International, these investors and agents will think of us as not only the largest and oldest real estate company in The Bahamas, but one that is innovative and willing to expand our marketing horizons,” according to Brown, who called it a great experience to be the only agent present from The Bahamas.

Investment Attaché in The Bahamas Consulate General Office in Toronto Dwight Hart was a part of The Bahamas’ delegation, in partnership with the Minister of Tourism.

"I was delighted to have been invited to participate in the Canadian International Property Show in partnership with HG Christie and the MOT,” Hart said. “As the Investment Attaché for The Bahamas Government here in Toronto it gave me an opportunity to see what was being showcased by some of our global competitors in the real estate market. I was also able to connect with a few Canadian real estate companies that are interested in establishing connections with real estate companies in The Bahamas with one potential partnership already bearing some fruit. Shows like this offers The Bahamas a unique opportunity to market all that we have to offer as a warm weather, white sand and crystal-clear water destination."

During the property show, Brown and The Bahamas’ delegation saw a steady stream of potential investors to The Bahamas, which she anticipates will reap benefits for the country’s real estate market.

This year’s show saw over 2,500 attendees from over 15 countries with more than 400 properties on display, and $300 million in transactions. Shining a light on the importance of investors buying properties overseas, by bringing the real estate experts all to one marketplace.

“Our booth had a huge banner backdrop created by our HGC design team which indicated the ability to have both a wonderful vacation home in Paradise, and to earn income through rentals when not in use,” according to Brown.

“We had many Investor Brochures and ‘Invest in The Bahamas’ information cards which ran out very quickly. We had a news crew attend who interviewed both Dwight and myself about the investment opportunities available throughout our Islands and why we were in Toronto. I explained the tax efficiency benefits for Canadian citizens, as well as investors from Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and India. It was a truly international show.”

Brown said the opportunity was priceless for HG Christie and The Bahamas’ real estate product, saying “In my opinion the future of international real estate investing is promising given that people can benefit from both ownership and investment income. Another benefit might be that it was held in one of the richest areas of Toronto - Yorkville, and so most of the private attendees had the means to buy a second or third home. I explained to the many Canadians I spoke to that they can spend 3 hours driving north to a cottage that they may be able to use 2-3 months of the year due to the weather, or fly 3 hours and be in Paradise.”

The beautiful real estate properties of The Bahamas were on full display during the 2023 Canadian International Property Show in Toronto, Canada, where HG Christie Real Estate Agent and Relocation Specialist Rosalyn Brown shared some of the top real estate options available for purchase throughout our islands. Property developers, financiers, promoters and other real estate firms from around the globe were exhibited during this year’s event in late October, where properties in The Bahamas joined the ranks of other high-end options from Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, USA and other Caribbean destinations. “I think that by showcasing HG Christie & Christie's International, these investors and agents will think of us as not only the largest and oldest real estate company in The Bahamas, but one that is innovative and willing to expand our marketing horizons,” according to Brown, who called it a great experience to be the only agent present from The Bahamas. Investment Attaché in The Bahamas Consulate General Office in Toronto Dwight Hart was a part of The Bahamas’ delegation, in partnership with the Minister of Tourism. "I was delighted to have been invited to participate in the Canadian International Property Show in partnership with HG Christie and the MOT,” Hart said. “As the Investment Attaché for The Bahamas Government here in Toronto it gave me an opportunity to see what was being showcased by some of our global competitors in the real estate market. I was also able to connect with a few Canadian real estate companies that are interested in establishing connections with real estate companies in The Bahamas with one potential partnership already bearing some fruit. Shows like this offers The Bahamas a unique opportunity to market all that we have to offer as a warm weather, white sand and crystal-clear water destination." During the property show, Brown and The Bahamas’ delegation saw a steady stream of potential investors to The Bahamas, which she anticipates will reap benefits for the country’s real estate market. This year’s show saw over 2,500 attendees from over 15 countries with more than 400 properties on display, and $300 million in transactions. Shining a light on the importance of investors buying properties overseas, by bringing the real estate experts all to one marketplace. “Our booth had a huge banner backdrop created by our HGC design team which indicated the ability to have both a wonderful vacation home in Paradise, and to earn income through rentals when not in use,” according to Brown. “We had many Investor Brochures and ‘Invest in The Bahamas’ information cards which ran out very quickly. We had a news crew attend who interviewed both Dwight and myself about the investment opportunities available throughout our Islands and why we were in Toronto. I explained the tax efficiency benefits for Canadian citizens, as well as investors from Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and India. It was a truly international show.” Brown said the opportunity was priceless for HG Christie and The Bahamas’ real estate product, saying “In my opinion the future of international real estate investing is promising given that people can benefit from both ownership and investment income. Another benefit might be that it was held in one of the richest areas of Toronto - Yorkville, and so most of the private attendees had the means to buy a second or third home. I explained to the many Canadians I spoke to that they can spend 3 hours driving north to a cottage that they may be able to use 2-3 months of the year due to the weather, or fly 3 hours and be in Paradise.”