New Category : Caribbean News

Minister of Tourism envisions 'StreetSmart242' App will redefine tourist experience

Mon, Mar 18th 2024, 10:54 AM

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper has thrown his support behind an innovative application aimed at redefining the tourism experience in The Bahamas. 
The 'StreetSmart242' App was officially launched at Nassau Cruise Port, downtown, on Monday, March 11, 2024.

“This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a transformative journey, not just for our visitors but for our local entrepreneurs and communities across our beautiful archipelago,” the deputy prime minister said.

StreetSmart242 will provide Bahamian entrepreneurs with a platform to offer their products and services to visitors, and give visitors a convenient place to find experiences off the beaten path.

“It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate the launch of StreetSmart, an innovative application that promises to redefine the way we experience tourism in The Bahamas,” he said. “As Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, I am thrilled to endorse StreetSmart and its mission.”

According to DPM Cooper, the launch of StreetSmart aligns perfectly with the vision of the Tourism Development Corporation to enhance tech tourism and transform the visitor experience in downtown areas and throughout the country.

He added, “StreetSmart is the innovation we encourage in the Innovate242 Initiative. We encourage this type of project to partner with our Smart City Pilot initiative.  There is a certain synergy between StreetSmart and Smart City.”

He congratulated the entire team behind StreetSmart, notably Mr. Ehren Hanna, the Chief Operating Officer of StreetSmart.

“Ehren's journey is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and innovation. From his dynamic leadership in sales and banking to his entrepreneurial spirit that led to the creation of Ehren's Grooming Center, Ehren has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence and community engagement,” the deputy prime minister said.

He further noted that Mr. Hanna's involvement in various organizations, including the Exuma Chamber of Commerce and the Bahamas National Youth Council, showcases his passion for giving back and fostering economic empowerment.

“What I am saying, Mr. Hanna, is that this initiative ticks all of the boxes for the important innovative trail that we have been blazing.  By connecting tourists with the heart and soul of The Bahamas, StreetSmart embodies our mission to provide visitors with unprecedented access to local insights, cultural experiences, and the hidden gems that define our paradise.”

The tourism minister further explained that the initiative not only promotes collaborative partnerships with local vendors but also fosters economic growth, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are maximized for our local communities.

“In embracing StreetSmart, we are taking a significant step towards reducing economic leakage and increasing the economic viability of our tourism industry. This innovative platform is a powerful tool that will strengthen our local tourism sector, creating a more sustainable and inclusive economic future for The Bahamas.”

In conclusion, he said, “I am confident that this application will play a crucial role in achieving our shared vision for the Bahamian tourism industry.  We will be watching what we hope will be a remarkable success.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper has thrown his support behind an innovative application aimed at redefining the tourism experience in The Bahamas.   The 'StreetSmart242' App was officially launched at Nassau Cruise Port, downtown, on Monday, March 11, 2024.   “This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a transformative journey, not just for our visitors but for our local entrepreneurs and communities across our beautiful archipelago,” the deputy prime minister said.   StreetSmart242 will provide Bahamian entrepreneurs with a platform to offer their products and services to visitors, and give visitors a convenient place to find experiences off the beaten path. “It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate the launch of StreetSmart, an innovative application that promises to redefine the way we experience tourism in The Bahamas,” he said. “As Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, I am thrilled to endorse StreetSmart and its mission.”   According to DPM Cooper, the launch of StreetSmart aligns perfectly with the vision of the Tourism Development Corporation to enhance tech tourism and transform the visitor experience in downtown areas and throughout the country.   He added, “StreetSmart is the innovation we encourage in the Innovate242 Initiative. We encourage this type of project to partner with our Smart City Pilot initiative.  There is a certain synergy between StreetSmart and Smart City.”   He congratulated the entire team behind StreetSmart, notably Mr. Ehren Hanna, the Chief Operating Officer of StreetSmart.   “Ehren's journey is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and innovation. From his dynamic leadership in sales and banking to his entrepreneurial spirit that led to the creation of Ehren's Grooming Center, Ehren has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence and community engagement,” the deputy prime minister said.   He further noted that Mr. Hanna's involvement in various organizations, including the Exuma Chamber of Commerce and the Bahamas National Youth Council, showcases his passion for giving back and fostering economic empowerment.   “What I am saying, Mr. Hanna, is that this initiative ticks all of the boxes for the important innovative trail that we have been blazing.  By connecting tourists with the heart and soul of The Bahamas, StreetSmart embodies our mission to provide visitors with unprecedented access to local insights, cultural experiences, and the hidden gems that define our paradise.”   The tourism minister further explained that the initiative not only promotes collaborative partnerships with local vendors but also fosters economic growth, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are maximized for our local communities.   “In embracing StreetSmart, we are taking a significant step towards reducing economic leakage and increasing the economic viability of our tourism industry. This innovative platform is a powerful tool that will strengthen our local tourism sector, creating a more sustainable and inclusive economic future for The Bahamas.”   In conclusion, he said, “I am confident that this application will play a crucial role in achieving our shared vision for the Bahamian tourism industry.  We will be watching what we hope will be a remarkable success.”

Mrs. Ann Marie Davis celebrates International Women's Day with women of Grand Bahama

Mon, Mar 11th 2024, 09:40 AM

Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, wife of Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis, was the event patron at International Women’s Day (IWD) Bahamas Celebration on Friday, March 8 at the Stone Crab Restaurant in Freeport, Grand Bahama.

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey, former Member of Parliament Loretta Butler-Turner, Grand Bahama Port Authority chairman, Sarah St. George and His Excellency Jamaal Rolle, Bahamas Ambassador & Permanent Delegate to UNESCO and Mrs. Patrice Russell, wife of Senator the Hon. Kirkland Russell were among those in attendance.

During the luncheon, the ladies were all invited to participate in the creation of an art piece by Ambassador Rolle.

Mrs. Davis commended the women for combining their efforts to raise funds for the Grand Bahama Children’s Home, Twenty Pearls and G.E.M.S.

Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, wife of Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis, was the event patron at International Women’s Day (IWD) Bahamas Celebration on Friday, March 8 at the Stone Crab Restaurant in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey, former Member of Parliament Loretta Butler-Turner, Grand Bahama Port Authority chairman, Sarah St. George and His Excellency Jamaal Rolle, Bahamas Ambassador & Permanent Delegate to UNESCO and Mrs. Patrice Russell, wife of Senator the Hon. Kirkland Russell were among those in attendance. During the luncheon, the ladies were all invited to participate in the creation of an art piece by Ambassador Rolle. Mrs. Davis commended the women for combining their efforts to raise funds for the Grand Bahama Children’s Home, Twenty Pearls and G.E.M.S.

Charlton sets new world record to win gold

Mon, Mar 4th 2024, 09:42 AM

The Bahamas emerged as a true giant at the recent World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, claiming the top spot amongst Caribbean nations on the medal chart. This incredible feat is a testament to the unwavering talent and dedication of our Bahamian athletes.

Leading the charge was the unstoppable Devynne Charlton, who cemented her dominance in the women’s 60m hurdles by shattering the world record not once, but twice. Her blistering run in, clocked in at a blazing 7.65 seconds, was two-hundredths of a second faster than her previous record set just a month ago. This remarkable achievement places her in a league of her own, proving that she is truly the world's best in this electrifying event.

Team Bahamas' success extends beyond gold medals. Ken Mullings displayed exceptional athleticism in the heptathlon, securing a personal best and a new national record with his fourth-place finish. Charisma Taylor showcased her talent with a sixth-place finish in the women's triple jump, while Donald Thomas and LaQuan Nairn displayed their skills in the high jump and long jump events with markings of 2.15m and 7.59m, respectively. Anthonique Strachan competed in the women’s 60m event, finishing eighth in the semi-final round.

The entire nation overflows with pride for the accomplishments by this six-member team. We celebrate Charlton's record-breaking feat, the resilience and determination of all our athletes, and their unwavering spirit in representing The Bahamas on the world stage. They have shown the world that our small nation packs a powerful punch. The aquamarine, black, and gold proudly flies high in recognition of your achievements.

A huge congratulations to Team Bahamas, the coaches, the federation, and everyone who contributed to this incredible performance. The journey continues, and we stand with you, united, as you pave the road to Paris with gold and world records in your sights. We salute you. 242 to the world!!!

The Bahamas emerged as a true giant at the recent World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, claiming the top spot amongst Caribbean nations on the medal chart. This incredible feat is a testament to the unwavering talent and dedication of our Bahamian athletes. Leading the charge was the unstoppable Devynne Charlton, who cemented her dominance in the women’s 60m hurdles by shattering the world record not once, but twice. Her blistering run in, clocked in at a blazing 7.65 seconds, was two-hundredths of a second faster than her previous record set just a month ago. This remarkable achievement places her in a league of her own, proving that she is truly the world's best in this electrifying event. Team Bahamas' success extends beyond gold medals. Ken Mullings displayed exceptional athleticism in the heptathlon, securing a personal best and a new national record with his fourth-place finish. Charisma Taylor showcased her talent with a sixth-place finish in the women's triple jump, while Donald Thomas and LaQuan Nairn displayed their skills in the high jump and long jump events with markings of 2.15m and 7.59m, respectively. Anthonique Strachan competed in the women’s 60m event, finishing eighth in the semi-final round. The entire nation overflows with pride for the accomplishments by this six-member team. We celebrate Charlton's record-breaking feat, the resilience and determination of all our athletes, and their unwavering spirit in representing The Bahamas on the world stage. They have shown the world that our small nation packs a powerful punch. The aquamarine, black, and gold proudly flies high in recognition of your achievements. A huge congratulations to Team Bahamas, the coaches, the federation, and everyone who contributed to this incredible performance. The journey continues, and we stand with you, united, as you pave the road to Paris with gold and world records in your sights. We salute you. 242 to the world!!!

'242 DAY' Independence Pop-Up!

Mon, Feb 26th 2024, 09:36 AM

The Bahamas Independence Secretariat, recognizing '242 DAY' -- February 24 -- staged an Independence Pop-Up! on Friday afternoon, February 23, 2024 at the Independence Roundabout on East Street South and East West Highway. 

All were encouraged to wear National Flag colours to celebrate.   The team was joined by executives of SuperClubs Breezes, as sponsors of the 50th anniversary celebration were invited to attend.