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CIBC Caribbean Celebrates International Women’s Day with S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women

Fri, Mar 15th 2024, 12:56 PM

Hundreds of teenage girls from all walks of life will this week be both empowered and encouraged to make integrity-based decisions, lead a positive lifestyle, and make the world around them a better place. Under the theme, Fortify, S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women will host its 18th Annual Girls Leadership Conference, which serves as an invaluable platform for personal growth and leadership development.

Aware of the importance of nurturing the next generation of empowered women leaders, CIBC Caribbean made a special donation to S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) and this year’s IWD theme, Inspire Inclusion. CIBC Caribbean’s Managing Director, Dr. Jacqui Bend, underscored that CIBC Caribbean is committed to fostering gender equality and supporting the empowerment of girls through education and leadership development.

Dr. Bend said, “CIBC Caribbean is proud to support S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women and the outstanding work it undertakes to uplift young women across The Bahamas. We believe in the importance of creating opportunities for young women to thrive and, through this donation and other initiatives, aim to contribute to building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”

Event organizers anticipate the participation of 250 girls representing almost every public and private junior and senior high school in New Providence and at least two Family Island schools. The event will also feature special sessions for students from local youth correctional and residential facilities.

S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women Executive Director, Therena Cunningham, said, “We are excited about hosting this event to help harness the leadership potential of female students and to execute prevention and intervention activities which are paramount in sowing seeds of hope, confidence, safety, and peace within the minds and hearts of every adolescent and teen girl who attends and participates.”

Ms. Cunningham added, “With the backing of partners like CIBC Caribbean, we are excited to continue our mission of fostering leadership and empowerment among young women, empowering them to make positive changes in their communities and beyond. On behalf of the volunteers at S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center, I am elated that CIBC Caribbean decided to support our youth development organization this year.”

Hundreds of teenage girls from all walks of life will this week be both empowered and encouraged to make integrity-based decisions, lead a positive lifestyle, and make the world around them a better place. Under the theme, Fortify, S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women will host its 18th Annual Girls Leadership Conference, which serves as an invaluable platform for personal growth and leadership development. Aware of the importance of nurturing the next generation of empowered women leaders, CIBC Caribbean made a special donation to S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women in celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) and this year’s IWD theme, Inspire Inclusion. CIBC Caribbean’s Managing Director, Dr. Jacqui Bend, underscored that CIBC Caribbean is committed to fostering gender equality and supporting the empowerment of girls through education and leadership development. Dr. Bend said, “CIBC Caribbean is proud to support S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women and the outstanding work it undertakes to uplift young women across The Bahamas. We believe in the importance of creating opportunities for young women to thrive and, through this donation and other initiatives, aim to contribute to building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.” Event organizers anticipate the participation of 250 girls representing almost every public and private junior and senior high school in New Providence and at least two Family Island schools. The event will also feature special sessions for students from local youth correctional and residential facilities. S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center for Young Women Executive Director, Therena Cunningham, said, “We are excited about hosting this event to help harness the leadership potential of female students and to execute prevention and intervention activities which are paramount in sowing seeds of hope, confidence, safety, and peace within the minds and hearts of every adolescent and teen girl who attends and participates.” Ms. Cunningham added, “With the backing of partners like CIBC Caribbean, we are excited to continue our mission of fostering leadership and empowerment among young women, empowering them to make positive changes in their communities and beyond. On behalf of the volunteers at S.T.R.A.W. Inc. Center, I am elated that CIBC Caribbean decided to support our youth development organization this year.”

BPL Has Over $500 Million in Debt

Tue, Mar 12th 2024, 10:18 AM

Minister of Energy and Transport the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis said the Bahamas Power and Light Company (BPL) has over $500 million in debt.

“Yes, that’s right over half-a-billion dollars and counting. It owes banks, it owes the government and its employee’s pensions are underfunded by $120 million. You heard me! The employees’ pension is underfunded by $120 million. Big change is needed!”

Minister Coleby-Davis was making her Contribution to the 2023-2024 Mid-Year Budget Debate in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

She explained that BPL operates 29 power stations on 17 Islands, and over the next five years BPL will need an investment of over $500 million to upgrade its infrastructure:

$300 million in new generation in New Providence and the Family Islands,

$130 million in transmission and distribution in New Providence in the next two years alone,

$35 million in advanced metering infrastructure, and

$70 million in other costs.

The Minister said, “Today to fix BPL, we need over $500 million to address its debts and over $500 million to upgrade and improve our aged and deteriorated infrastructure.”

Plan to Lower Cost, increase reliability and use cleaner sources of energy

The Energy Minister explained that the Government’s plan has four components, each of which is necessary to finally deliver to Bahamians what they deserve: lower prices, increased reliability, and cleaner sources of energy.

She said the components are:

Incorporate solar as a blended source of energy in the Family Islands with a view to replacing 100MW of generation infrastructure. The Ministry received 29 proposals in response to its Request for Proposal (RFP), and is presently evaluating those proposals and intends to notify the successful bidders by the end of March.

Incorporate solar as a source of 60-100MW of power generation in New Providence. The Ministry issued the RFP and the deadline for submitting proposals is March 28, 2024.

Replace and upgrade much of the Transmission and Distribution System in New Providence to improve reliability and reduce cost.

Ensure New Providence has 340 MW of power to meet demand now, and be in a better position to meet forecast growth in coming years.  This requires replacing aged or obsolete generation, purchasing considerable additional new generation, and introducing LNG, liquid natural gas, to increase efficiency of the generating environmental impacts.

Minister of Energy and Transport the Hon. JoBeth Coleby-Davis said the Bahamas Power and Light Company (BPL) has over $500 million in debt. “Yes, that’s right over half-a-billion dollars and counting. It owes banks, it owes the government and its employee’s pensions are underfunded by $120 million. You heard me! The employees’ pension is underfunded by $120 million. Big change is needed!” Minister Coleby-Davis was making her Contribution to the 2023-2024 Mid-Year Budget Debate in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. She explained that BPL operates 29 power stations on 17 Islands, and over the next five years BPL will need an investment of over $500 million to upgrade its infrastructure: $300 million in new generation in New Providence and the Family Islands, $130 million in transmission and distribution in New Providence in the next two years alone, $35 million in advanced metering infrastructure, and $70 million in other costs. The Minister said, “Today to fix BPL, we need over $500 million to address its debts and over $500 million to upgrade and improve our aged and deteriorated infrastructure.” Plan to Lower Cost, increase reliability and use cleaner sources of energy The Energy Minister explained that the Government’s plan has four components, each of which is necessary to finally deliver to Bahamians what they deserve: lower prices, increased reliability, and cleaner sources of energy. She said the components are: Incorporate solar as a blended source of energy in the Family Islands with a view to replacing 100MW of generation infrastructure. The Ministry received 29 proposals in response to its Request for Proposal (RFP), and is presently evaluating those proposals and intends to notify the successful bidders by the end of March. Incorporate solar as a source of 60-100MW of power generation in New Providence. The Ministry issued the RFP and the deadline for submitting proposals is March 28, 2024. Replace and upgrade much of the Transmission and Distribution System in New Providence to improve reliability and reduce cost. Ensure New Providence has 340 MW of power to meet demand now, and be in a better position to meet forecast growth in coming years.  This requires replacing aged or obsolete generation, purchasing considerable additional new generation, and introducing LNG, liquid natural gas, to increase efficiency of the generating environmental impacts.

UB Honours More Than 100 Employees for their Dedicated Service

Mon, Mar 11th 2024, 09:47 AM

One-hundred-and-twenty-five reasons to go farther and reach higher. That is the number of faculty and staff members that University of The Bahamas (UB) is honouring this year as employees who have served diligently from five to 40 years.

UB held its annual employee recognition ceremony on Friday at the Performing Arts Ceremony, one of its 50th anniversary events. It was an occasion to praise the hard work, sacrifice and perseverance of the people who are serving the noble mission of supporting and driving national development. Faculty and staff across a broad number of roles at UB’s Oakes Field Campus and UB-North in Grand Bahama were honoured.

Acting President of UB Janyne Hodder said she was extremely proud of their efforts and how they have remained steadfast, even through challenging times, to deeply impact the lives of citizens, the community and the country.

“As we all reflect on the 50-year journey of University of The Bahamas, I'm even more in awe of the dedication of all of you and of all who came before you to make UB the high quality Bahamian national university that it is,” said President Hodder.

“I thank you on behalf of those who came before and on behalf of all who will follow. Those of you in this room make up the very fabric of University of The Bahamas. You faced such challenges, found solutions failed and tried again. You’ve been innovative and most of all, you love this university.”

For half a century, the institution, created during the inception of The Bahamas’ independence, has been integral to the country’s growth and development. Today, hundreds of faculty and staff are part of a vibrant system that is educating more than 4,000 students in New Providence and Grand Bahama who are on their way to joining an alumni base of more than 22,000.

At the recognition ceremony, one by one, each honouree walked across the stage to the applause of their peers and friends to receive their special pins.

Remarkably, Lecturer Greta Kemp was saluted as a 40-year veteran employee. Kemp was a part of the first graduating class of COB. She eventually became a member of faculty and taught many of the institution's employees who serve in faculty and staff roles today. She received a standing ovation and cheers of applause. Assistant Professor of Architecture Kenneth Cartwright has also served for 40 years.

President Hodder reminded the honourees that what they do is connected to a larger vision that deeply impacts the nation.

“We're striving for more, for better, not for ourselves, but for our community and for our country. This is what I know and UB is fortunate to have so many within its faculty and staff who are striving always for better, for more, for our students, for our country, and for our community. Your contributions have shaped the lives of thousands of students, and propelled our university forward on its journey of growth and transformation,” she said.

One-hundred-and-twenty-five reasons to go farther and reach higher. That is the number of faculty and staff members that University of The Bahamas (UB) is honouring this year as employees who have served diligently from five to 40 years. UB held its annual employee recognition ceremony on Friday at the Performing Arts Ceremony, one of its 50th anniversary events. It was an occasion to praise the hard work, sacrifice and perseverance of the people who are serving the noble mission of supporting and driving national development. Faculty and staff across a broad number of roles at UB’s Oakes Field Campus and UB-North in Grand Bahama were honoured. Acting President of UB Janyne Hodder said she was extremely proud of their efforts and how they have remained steadfast, even through challenging times, to deeply impact the lives of citizens, the community and the country. “As we all reflect on the 50-year journey of University of The Bahamas, I'm even more in awe of the dedication of all of you and of all who came before you to make UB the high quality Bahamian national university that it is,” said President Hodder. “I thank you on behalf of those who came before and on behalf of all who will follow. Those of you in this room make up the very fabric of University of The Bahamas. You faced such challenges, found solutions failed and tried again. You’ve been innovative and most of all, you love this university.” For half a century, the institution, created during the inception of The Bahamas’ independence, has been integral to the country’s growth and development. Today, hundreds of faculty and staff are part of a vibrant system that is educating more than 4,000 students in New Providence and Grand Bahama who are on their way to joining an alumni base of more than 22,000. At the recognition ceremony, one by one, each honouree walked across the stage to the applause of their peers and friends to receive their special pins. Remarkably, Lecturer Greta Kemp was saluted as a 40-year veteran employee. Kemp was a part of the first graduating class of COB. She eventually became a member of faculty and taught many of the institution's employees who serve in faculty and staff roles today. She received a standing ovation and cheers of applause. Assistant Professor of Architecture Kenneth Cartwright has also served for 40 years. President Hodder reminded the honourees that what they do is connected to a larger vision that deeply impacts the nation. “We're striving for more, for better, not for ourselves, but for our community and for our country. This is what I know and UB is fortunate to have so many within its faculty and staff who are striving always for better, for more, for our students, for our country, and for our community. Your contributions have shaped the lives of thousands of students, and propelled our university forward on its journey of growth and transformation,” she said.

Bahamas Development Bank Launches 50th Anniversary Celebrations

Wed, Mar 6th 2024, 02:25 PM

The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) recently commenced its golden anniversary celebrations with special church services held at Freeport Bible Church and Golden Gates Native Baptist Church, in Grand Bahama and New Providence respectively. Both services marked the beginning of a year filled with commemorations of the bank’s 50 years of financial service and national development.

Bahamas Development Bank Managing Director, Nicholas Higgs, said, "As we launch our 50th anniversary celebrations, we are reminded of our journey fueled by an unwavering commitment to our country. As we look forward to the next 50 years and beyond, we remain dedicated to fostering economic growth, supporting local entrepreneurs, and building a prosperous future for The Bahamas."

The New Providence service was led by Pastor Alonso Hinsey Jr., who serves not only as the senior pastor of Golden Gates Native Baptist Church but also as an executive at BDB. In his sermon, Pastor Hinsey emphasized the importance of trusting God and being trustworthy as two sides of the same coin.

“Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship and our relationship with God is no exception. When we trust God, we believe who He says that He is, what He is going to do, and that He will do what He says He will do. We rely on Him to guide us, protect us, and to provide for us. Being trustworthy is just as important. When we are trustworthy, others can rely on us to keep our promises, can rely on us to tell the truth, and act with integrity.”

He referenced the story of God ordering Abraham to sacrifice his promised son Isaac.

“Trust is not easy when facing challenges. However, even in the midst of our doubts and fears, God is faithful and trustworthy. When we are trustworthy, others know they can rely on us and that they will not be let down. When we are trustworthy, we are reflecting the character of God who faithful and true,” Pastor Hinsey added.

Hinsey also stressed that, “Trustworthiness is essential for building strong relationships and creating a just and harmonious society.”

The Bahamas Development Bank has been instrumental in providing financial solutions and expertise to Bahamian businesses and entrepreneurs, driving economic growth and sustainability across the country. The 50th anniversary marks a significant milestone in the bank's history and will be marked by a variety of events, including community outreach initiatives, competitions, and celebrations that both reflect on the bank's past accomplishments and outline its way forward.

Pastor Hinsey’s powerful message can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/live/c0FxUErI65o?si=em2vTZ7AfPIZklNk.

The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) recently commenced its golden anniversary celebrations with special church services held at Freeport Bible Church and Golden Gates Native Baptist Church, in Grand Bahama and New Providence respectively. Both services marked the beginning of a year filled with commemorations of the bank’s 50 years of financial service and national development. Bahamas Development Bank Managing Director, Nicholas Higgs, said, "As we launch our 50th anniversary celebrations, we are reminded of our journey fueled by an unwavering commitment to our country. As we look forward to the next 50 years and beyond, we remain dedicated to fostering economic growth, supporting local entrepreneurs, and building a prosperous future for The Bahamas." The New Providence service was led by Pastor Alonso Hinsey Jr., who serves not only as the senior pastor of Golden Gates Native Baptist Church but also as an executive at BDB. In his sermon, Pastor Hinsey emphasized the importance of trusting God and being trustworthy as two sides of the same coin. “Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship and our relationship with God is no exception. When we trust God, we believe who He says that He is, what He is going to do, and that He will do what He says He will do. We rely on Him to guide us, protect us, and to provide for us. Being trustworthy is just as important. When we are trustworthy, others can rely on us to keep our promises, can rely on us to tell the truth, and act with integrity.” He referenced the story of God ordering Abraham to sacrifice his promised son Isaac. “Trust is not easy when facing challenges. However, even in the midst of our doubts and fears, God is faithful and trustworthy. When we are trustworthy, others know they can rely on us and that they will not be let down. When we are trustworthy, we are reflecting the character of God who faithful and true,” Pastor Hinsey added. Hinsey also stressed that, “Trustworthiness is essential for building strong relationships and creating a just and harmonious society.” The Bahamas Development Bank has been instrumental in providing financial solutions and expertise to Bahamian businesses and entrepreneurs, driving economic growth and sustainability across the country. The 50th anniversary marks a significant milestone in the bank's history and will be marked by a variety of events, including community outreach initiatives, competitions, and celebrations that both reflect on the bank's past accomplishments and outline its way forward. Pastor Hinsey’s powerful message can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/live/c0FxUErI65o?si=em2vTZ7AfPIZklNk.