Reggae Singing Scientist On The “Rise” With Music Video Debut In Atlanta

By Arthia Nixon, The Ambassador Agency

Atlanta, Georgia... Despite being known globally for his groundbreaking research that landed him in the pages of Chemosphere, one up and coming scientist is about to go where few scientists have gone. Sure, chemist Alexander Borodin was a composer, The Cellmates were a rock band of Yale biologists, physicist Diane de Kerckhoven’s jazz singing took her to perform for the likes of Bill Clinton and Paul McCartney and even Albert Einstein was a well received violinist. But none have won a Dove award, two Marlin Awards or debuted their music video with Bahamian pop princess TaDa outside their homeland.
Yet, this is a feat that Stefan ‘The Scientist’ Moss has accomplished while balancing his blossoming science career and raising his young daughter with his wife. When speaking with Moss who makes you feel like a friend by immediately encouraging you to refer to him as Stefan, it’s hard to believe you are in the midst of a Caribbean celebrity whose musical resume includes being featured on projects along with Grammy award winning artist Speech of Arrested Development, gospel crooner Canton Jones, and Kanye West’s G.O.O.D recording artist Tony Williams.
His most recent accomplishment was about a week ago in Atlanta when he released his new album Origins and music video Rise in conjunction with DIRadiocast.com. Attendees such as Olympian Leevan ‘Superman’ Sands, So$aMan, Mylow and Monster Cable (creators of the Beats by Dr. Dre Headphones) got a treat when TaDa joined Moss on stage to perform their hit song.
“Its so amazing to be at this point,” he says reflecting on growing up in The Bahamas and now researching science while making music in north America. “I got to work with TaDa, who I grew up making music with as a teenager when we were members of the group Supernatural along with Raymond “Double Syx” Eneas (another musical import from The Bahamas). Now those crazy dreams are no longer dreams they are actually being lived out.”
The video for the song Rise was shot by Bluehole Pictures, an Atlanta-based company. It takes viewers to the side of Nassau, Bahamas not often seen in the films or commercials. Set to the flow of a hip-hop/reggae/r&b beat, Rise is the soundtrack for Moss to showcase local hangouts like the Paradise Island Bridge, The Caves, Fort Montague, Stone’s Throw and the Queen’s Staircase.
The meaning of Rise however has been adapted as a motivational mandate especially by Facebook users who have been updating their status to “never giving up, rise to the top”.
“I just wanted to send a message of hope and encouragement to everyone facing adversity and difficult times,” Moss says of the song which has already hit several top ten lists. “I want anyone who listens to it to know that they can continue to pursue their dreams and not allow anyone or anything to hold them back!”
Origins, featuring Rise is available on iTunes and Amazon.

Leah Discovers Luck of the Leprechaun: Sole Bahamian Gymnast Grabs Gold At Int’l Meet

By Arthia Nixon, The Ambassador Agency

Orlando, Florida… 14 year-old Leah Rodgers made The Bahamas proud by capturing a first place title in one of her five events at an international gymnastics meet over the weekend. Rodgers, who is a member of Nassau ‘Nastics, was the only Bahamian and Caribbean competitor at the 2010 Leprechaun Classics in Florida. This was her first ever competition.

The young athlete wowed the judges and blew away her competition by getting top marks with super splits and fantastic flips in her floor routine. Rodgers returned to the competition ring and earned a medal on the bars and on the vault. Despite slipping off of the balance beam during her display, Rodgers jumped back into competition to continue her routine.

“I did my best to focus and I exceeded my expectations,” said Rodgers. “I am very, very happy. I was disappointed with the beam but glad I got my medals in the other areas.”

“Leah gave an amazing first time performance,” said Head Coach of Nassau ‘Nastics Trevor Ramsey with pride. “Her mother and I were the only two familiar faces in the whole gymnasium and she didn’t even have any teammates since the other Nassau ‘Nastics members are participating in other events. Yet, despite all the nerves, especially it being her first competition, she did fantastic and captured three medals. I am extremely proud of her accomplishments.”

Workers Academy Junkanoo Babies Delight In First Ever Parade

By Arthia Nixon (The Ambassador Agency) for Workers Academy, Photos by Dion Maycock

Nassau, The Bahamas… Over 300 tiny tots with their eyes all aglow kicked off the holiday season by hosting their Bay Street worthy version of Junior Junkanoo Babies on Parade on Wednesday. The participating students are all a part of Workers Academy and Childcare Centre Junkanoo Babies Parade.

Several fun themes were displayed such has Ne-Hao Kai-Lan and China, Sesame Street, Educational Characters, and the Living Things Made By God.

According to principal of the institution, Dale Davis, the parade was an immense success mainly in part to the school’s Parent Teacher Association and parent involvement. She especially acknowledged the crowd of spectators that stayed strong from 10 to 2.30 pm.

“We held the parade in the middle of the day and parents took time from their jobs to see their children participate,” she said. “We’ve had parents come and decorate the cribs of those who are too little to make the rush and we had parents stay late into the evening or come in extremely early to make certain that their children’s classes were ready.”

Principal Davis says that the main objective of educating children about their culture was fulfilled based on what she saw.

“We sought to educate our students about their culture in a direct hands-on approach,” she said. “We wanted give them all aspects from learning, to coloring, to making costumes and to rush and based on the parent feedback that we’ve been getting, who knows, we might consider looking into joining the major parade next year.”

Workers Academy and Childcare Centre, which facilitates children from three months to sixth grade is the education arm of the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union and is attached to Workers House in New Providence.

Model Chanel Iman; Here's to you Ms. Robinson!

When your parents name you Chanel Iman Robinson, you’d better be able to live up to that fierceness. Now that reigning young black model Jourdan Dunn is expecting her first child, 20 year-old Chanel Iman is left to stand solo on the pedestal that Tyra, Naomi and the original Iman built.

With her exotic eyes and caramel complexion, Chanel Iman is a true model citizen who looks like no one else. Additionally, she’s only 5.9” and still somehow taking the fashion world by storm. One Google image search of her name proves why agents go gaga when she steps into the room. It also helps that her personality is awesomely positive. The Atlanta native is part Korean and part black and from the sibling pics posted on her Myspace page, it’s easy to see that beauty genes run in her family. Her Myspace page also says she’s married but we’re wondering about that. If she is, good for her, if she’s notgood for her. Relationships are things that you do on your own and we tend to mind our own business about.

Chanel Iman was last month’s Teen Vogue covergirl and we’re surprised that she hasn’t nailed a whole lot more covers in the time she’s been out there. Perhaps because she’s been stomping down some of the world’s leading catwalks. In fact, at Milan Fashion Week in September 2009 to showcase the Spring 2010 collections, Chanel Iman seized nines shows (including fashion giants Gucci, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana). She was credited as leading the resurgence of black models being featured in Italian shows.

For the record, she comes across as well spoken and a beauty with a brain. Regardless, we know that she is one to watch and she’s our You Ought 2 Know model for now. By the way, happy birthday to you Chanel!

Want more Chanel Iman? Click on her name above to check out her Myspace page

Bahamian Gymnasts Clinch 5th Place In Individual Categories At Florida Meet

Coral Springs, Florida… Six Bahamian gymnasts brought home a trophy after making their mark at the recent Fright Night invitational meet in Coral Springs, Florida. Members of the all female team are all trained at Nassau ‘Nastics, the nation’s oldest gymnastics club. While the team did not win the overall title, as the smallest contingent at the meet, they still fared well with two team members landing in the top five for their categories.

“They all tried their best and they did fairly well,” said Coach Diana Whylly who, along with Coach Lavette Saunders, prepared the team. “We don’t have the facilities that they have in the United States to practice with nor do we have multiple clubs to compete against. So when you consider those factors, the team did well. However, we got to see areas on which we can improve and we plan to work on those areas so that our next meet is more successful.”

Savannah Brady, (top photo) the youngest member of the team, beat out nearly 20 other participants to capture fifth place on her favorite event, the floor routine with a score of 9.050. She placed 11^th on vault with 9.225 and 15^th in both bars and beam. Overall, she placed 11^th in her category with 34.175 points. Also scoring an individual fifth place title was Kristy Daniels (centre photo) with a 9.275 on the vault. Placing 16^th overall with 33.525 points, Daniels scored 7.9 on the bars, 7.7 on beam and 8.650 on the floor.

Both Angel and Peyton Willie placed 18^th in their levels. Angel scored 8.8 on vault, 7.725 on bars, 6.150 on beam and 7.650 on floor for an overall score of 30.325. Meanwhile, Peyton scores were 8.650 on vault, 7.450 on bars, 6.950 on beam and 8.125 on the floor to a total of 31.175 points.

Angelique Strachan placed 12^th overall in her division with total score o 32.175. She scored an 8.550 on vault, 8.4 on bars, 7.625 on beam and 7.6 on her floor routine. Rounding on the team with a score of 31.700 overall was Athalia Swann who placed 16^th after scoring a 9.0 on vault, 7.150 on bars, 7.800 on beam and 7.750 on floor.

“This is only the first meet for some of the team members so it gave them a chance to see what they are competing against,” noted Head Coach of Nassau ‘Nastics, Trevor Ramsey. “What is good about the team is that they are eager and willing to learn new things and they all understand that they have to put their best forward. The main reason we seek to provide them with opportunities to compete abroad is for exposure. There are so many doors that can be opened with successful gymnastics when you think about scholarships and more. So, now that they are back and we have seen their potential, we are going to work and take them to the next level.”

Rush Hour Director Brett Ratner Seeks Bahamians For Commercial

Nassau, The Bahamas…Filmmaker and music video director Brett Ratner will be returning to The Bahamas to shoot another project soon – and he’s looking for a few Bahamians to be a part of the production as extras. Ratner has had blockbuster success with movies like The Family Man, X-Men: The Last Stand and the Rush Hour series which featured Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. Ratner’s last Bahamian project was After the Sunset, which showcased Salma Hayek, Peirce Brosnon and the unofficial Bahamian star, the Atlantis resort of Paradise Island.

Now, Ratner returns to Atlantis to shoot a commercial for the resort and plans to cast some lucky Bahamians to be seen worldwide. Ratner is working with local casting company Sharma Entertainment to seek Caucasians, Asians and Latinos between the ages of eight and 55 with various looks. All extras will be compensated $150 for a day’s work.

Radel Parks, CEO of Sharma Entertainment says that any and everyone fitting the descriptions can participate as there are no speaking roles and acting experience is not required since extras for the most part simple appear in the background and make a scene more natural.

“Atlantis is known for producing top notch family oriented commercials,” said Parks. “Our goal at Sharma Entertainment is to provide quality entertainment for the family through film, tv, and theatre in addition to seeking opportunities to expose local talent for work that is suitable for them though auditions, castings and other events that will place talent in the market best suited for them.”

Parks added: “This experience with Mr. Ratner promises to be very exciting and rewarding as it will give participants the chance to discover what working on a set is really like. It’s a chance of a lifetime to observe a world renowned direction in ‘action’!”

Potential extras can e-mail headshots to sharmaentertainment@gmail.com. All persons interested however, must attend a casting at Sharma Entertainment’s office in Baker’s Close, Oakes Field. For more information call 328-5729.

Manifest Now Solo Star On His Dunamus Soundz Label

Nassau, The Bahamas… After spending the past decade launching the musical careers of well rounded entertainers such as Bodine ‘BE’ Johnson and Ricardo ‘Mr. Beeds’ Forbes, multi-award winning producer/hip hopper, Lavard ‘Manifest’ Parks announced that he is now the sole artist on his Dunamus Soundz Records label.

Manifest established himself as pioneer on the Caribbean hip hop scene as a teenager when he started the label, after being musically moulded by Double Syx, the producer who introduced the world to Manifest and other artists such as Ternielle ‘TaDa’ Burrows. Now, the hit-maker and founder of the Bahamas Hip Hop Fest says he’s ready to take his music to a whole other level, and as a result has had to make changes to facilitate the road he’s now travelling.

“I just want to clear the air that no one was dropped or fired or anything,” stated Manifest. “The people who were on the label were and still are family. Everyone got to complete what they were working on and it was really cool how we are still able to chat each other up when it’s time to make music and such. The real deal is that I am unable at this time to commit to developing the whole artist as I once did because the vision I wrote is becoming plain and there is room for the work of my hands. In other words, Manifest is about to blow the roof off! Because I’ll be travelling the Caribbean and North America very soon and of course my obligation to my family and even the youth I mentor, I simply won’t have the time to focus on polishing up an artist.”

Manifest noted that while he will be pushing himself as an artist with a team of managers and publicists in the Caribbean, Bahamas and North America, the overall goal is to take the lessons he’s learnt and come back to help establish more artists from his country.

“I mean, it’s like this – in order to take your craft to another level once you’ve saturated a market, you have to follow opportunities as they present themselves,” he says. “I’ve been blessed to have had a great decade of hits in my country, and I’m blessed to see that the hardwork has paid off with the awards I’ve received, but the time is right to take it to a whole new level. We’re not breaking the company down, we’re building on to it.”

Presently, Manifest is working on his latest music video and putting the finishing touches on HISlife, HISmic set to be release in early 2010. Good Times, the first single from the album has already been making the top ten lists on several stations and magazines while providing him with opportunities to perform live including at this weekend’s Artists 4 Peace concert.

“It’s been a really good time for me because of the people I surround myself with,” admits Manifest. “My wife has been there every step of the way supporting me – I mean, when Dunamus Soundz was still an idea in my head, she was the one who got me my first computer. Of course, my right hand man Corridon ‘The Don’ Hanna has been behind the scenes from the start and while I travel he’s going to be holding it down. I also wouldn’t be able to do what I do without the fans who actually continue pushing me to bring more clean, cuss-free, feel good hits so I thank God for them. And even though he’s only been here for four months, my son Jojo also gives me new motivation and he’s already living the hip hop life by joining us when we do some interviews and shows and who knows, he might even have a cameo in one of the new videos. All in all, keep looking out and checking me up on Facebook, MySpace and www.dunamussoundz.com because we are taking it to a whole new level!”

J.CHASE DEBUT ALBUM COMING SOON!

Don't miss the worldwide introduction of gospel rapper J.Chase in his very first interview, right here with us

at YouOught2know. Come back soon and check out his very first interview and find out why he's the hottest new sensation set to blaze it up.

El-Shaddai Ladies Get Set For Free Legal Talk

Photo Caption: Left to right Elder Lenora Davis, Vice President; Elder Dorian Cox, President; Sis. Lynette Carey, Secretary and Deaconess Chantell Duncombe of El-Shaddai Ministries International (Bahamas). (Photo by Arthia A. Nixon)

El-Shaddai Ladies Get Ready For Free Legal Talk

Nassau, The Bahamas….The Women’s Ministry of El-Shaddai Ministries International (Bahamas) will be providing an evening of free legal consultation with noted attorney Nadia Johnson of Harding, Lee and Co. The event is planned for Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 7:30pm at El-Shaddai Ministries on Mount Royal Avenue (the old Culmersville Laundromat).
According to President of the group Elder Dorian Cox, Johnson’s expertise comes at a time when so many hurting women are desperate to find out their rights in many matters that can make a huge difference in their lives. Johnson will also specifically address The Benefits of Inheritance Planning.
Johnson was called to the Bahamas Bar in 2005 after being trained at the University of Buckingham and University of the West of England. Her areas of expertise includes conveyancing, mortgages, family law, wills and probates. She is also the president of Toastmasters Club 6796.
“We are excited to have Nadia Johnson joining us,” said Cox. “We are also pleased to be able to bring this to a community like Culmersville where many people feel that legal consultation is out of reach for them. This is an awesome opportunity to find out what rights they have as single mothers, what to do in terms of settling divorces, how to get accurate answers on inheriting property and to find out whatever they feel affects them at no cost to them.”
Ladies interested in attending El-Shaddai’s Legal Talk are urged to reserve their seats by calling 361-7153 or 356-0510 at the church or visit http://www.elshaddiministries.org/History.html

TADA: She’s That Girl At The Mall This Weekend

Nassau, The Bahamas… The leading lady of the local music scene will show first hand why she continues soaring to international standards this weekend at the Mall at Marathon June 27 from 12 to 2 p.m.
TaDa will be bringing along a few friends who’ve been making their waves a tsunami in the industry like NCity, Fred Ferguson, DJ Clean Cut, DJs Supa Mario, DJ iGnite, NCity, Bodine 'Be' Johnson, Kyng David, Randy C, ReBirth, Asdarjah Bahamas, FDot, The Little Dicey Doe Boys, Vamp and a whole host of entertainment media and local paparazzi.
Come and spice up your MySpace or Facebook page with a photo of TaDa or some of these other awesome artists. Get a copy of her latest album and she might even sign it for you!

Bahamian Body Building Champ “Mighty Mouse” To Represent Caribbean Region at World Games

Nassau, The Bahamas…Already known to China as a small nation packing a mighty blow when it comes to athleticism following the 2008 Olympics, The Bahamas stands a great chance of earning yet another medal when Paul Edward “Mighty Mouse” Wilson faces off during the 2009 World Games in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The powerhouse was personally selected by the International Bodybuilding Federation to represent the Caribbean region at The World Games.
At 5 foot 2 inches tall and 152 pounds, Wilson is a 26 year-old bodybuilding champion in the lightweight amateur division. He started the sport nine years ago while in high school and spent the last eight years dominating the sport. Among the titles he’s accumulated are the reigning Central American Caribbean champion gold medalist, the reigning national lightweight champion, and the two time champion of the Southern States Body Building Competition in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. While representing The Bahamas for the past eight years, the man they call Mighty Mouse earned one gold, two silvers, and one bronze medal at four of those competitions. In 2006, he placed 17th out of 71 competitors at the World Championships held in the Czech Republic.
“I’ve been doing this sport since I was a teenager,” Wilson reflects. “In fact, I entered my first competition the day after I graduated Faith Temple Christian High School. I became a certified fitness instructor in Nevada and now I’m one of the personal fitness instructors at Mystikal Fitness, where I also train. All in all, I am more than ready to compete.”
Another thing that Wilson is ready to do is to bring more attention to the sport and he’s determined to get the financial backing he needs to reach his goals.
“I think that body building in The Bahamas is being stunted because of the downturn in the economy and the stigmatism that goes along with the sport,” he noted. “It does take a lot of money to stick to the proper diet, the vitamins, supplements and gym membership but a the same time, Bahamians have not only proven to be successful in the sport, but also are serious when it comes to abusing their bodies with steroids. I’m proud to say that we (The Bahamas) don’t have anyone known for drug abuse at these competitions.”
As for his pending competition, Wilson is ready for to make the nation proud on his first trip to Asia.
“I’m excited about going to Chinese Taipei,” he says. “I’ve seen some of the top notch athletes at other competitions and I’m ready. I’ve faced off against some of them before and I know the caliber of athletes on that level. Overall, I’m motivated to compete and bring what I’ve got to the forefront.”
The World Games are set to begin July 16.

3rd Annual Bishop Ian K. Brathwaite Golf Tourney Set For End of June

Join Bishop Ian K. Brathwaite as he celebrates his 3rd annual highly anticipated Golf Tournament on June 27. Just view the video for more information and find out how you can help support the Bahamas Diabetic Association and the development of Junior Golf in The Bahamas.

Our First Readers' Reward Prize Giveaway! You Can Win Something Straight From the Hands of Hip Hop Icon Manifest!

Lavard 'Manifest' Parks performs at the Hip Hop Fest, an event he founded several years ago while wearing gear from his label.

Hi there everyone,

We've got some exciting news from Manifest that we'll be sharing very soon that is truly worth celebrating. Soooooo, in order to celebrate, I've decided to give an autographed Dunamus Soundz product to you. Simply answer the following questions (some of them are already answered for you right here):

1)What is Manifest's real name?

2)Who, other than Manifest, has produced the most tracks under the Dunamus Soundz label?

3)What is the name of the hip-hopera song that won Manifest his most recent award?

4) Who is the only female to serve on the Dunamus Soundz Executive team?

5) What is the name of Manifest's newest album?

6) Which Caribean island did Manifest tour early 2009?

7)Name the mega Bahamian female artist who shared a musical mentor with Manifest when they were teens?

We'll be taking your answers from now until we release our latest story on Manifest. So take care and do your research... PS His official page is on Facebook and it's connected to his website.. or you can scroll our archives at http://www.youought2know.blogspot.com/

You may also leave your answers at 1-242-225-1550 ONLY if you leave your e-mail/phone number and at least your first name.

Happy hunting!

Azaria Clare Makes History As First Miss Global Bahamas

Nassau, The Bahamas...19 year-old Azaria Clare (forefront) sealed her place in history on Sunday May 3rd at the Rainforest Theatre as she became the first-ever Miss Global Bahamas International. The six foot stunner also captured awards for Best Evening Gown, Most Outstanding Participant, Best Interview and Miss Congeniality. 1st Runner up is Talent Winner Shannell Moss of Crooked Island (back right) and 2nd Runner up is Jaimie B. Morris who captured the Best Body/Swimsuit Award. The event was held under the patronage of the Hon. Desmond Bannister and attended by many distinguished guests including Mr. Lachau Ramchandani, the international president and founder of Miss Global International.

Expect an update soon will a full story and photos! Congratulations to Miss Clare.

‘Refreshed’ Richa Resurfaces With New Album

"I needed to be rejuvenated and refreshed...and that I am"

Nassau, The Bahamas…She’s been called everything from the beauty queen who made it big to the orphan who found her happy ending that once included a real live African king. She’s been an actress, a singer, a songwriter with a platinum record and even a pageant director. Yet, her happily ever after once seemed like a happily never after at a point when she once contemplated suicide, dealt with depression and failed relationships. Now, Richa Sands is back, rejuvenated and refreshed with a brand new album and brand new outlook on life.
Refreshed, the third album released under her company Bently Productions is aptly titled with a thoroughly refreshing sound of a cool, confident woman who puts the life she once wanted to end firmly in the hands of her Creator.
The album serves as the perfect demo for any artist who aspires to crossover. No two songs seem to fit the same genre yet, it proves Richa is indeed a force to be reckoned with when it comes to versatility. Taking time from her travels with living gospel legend Ron Kenoly, Richa spoke candidly and openly about Refreshed which took three years to complete.
“I chose the name for the album because I took time away from frontline music ministry because I needed to be rejuvenated and refreshed...and that I am.,” she admits. “Also given the season that we are presently living in I believe that everyday we need to be renewed and refreshed. The mood of this project also lends to that feeling.”
The former Miss Bahamas also admits that her daughter Maleah serves as a muse in bringing the project to fruition, the first completed since become a mom.
“How can children not serve as inspiration?” she beams. “They teach us the meaning of 'becoming like little children, so as to make it into the Kingdom of Heaven'. My daughter definitely serves as a major source of inspiration! She fills my heart with joy and laughter and came to me at a time when my heart was broken and I am grateful to God for sending her to me.”
Richa added that she aspired to bring several elements to the album and she achieved her goal an award-worthy way. She starts off the album with a jazzy style for Bless The Lord before pouring out her Bahamian roots with Revival In My Soul, a true example of how the cultural expression of Junknaoo rushin’ was birthed from the church. The album also reconnects Richa with her Jamaican heritage in a dancehall techno mix of Send Down The Rain featuring Dangerous while her elegant vocals lend a sense of class to reggae with Marching To Zion. Perhaps one of the more interesting twists on her record is Take My Life, a traditional funeral hymn that stands out as an R&B love song to God.
Richa is also sure to lure in a new fans as she ventures into the crunk/hip hop genre with Clap Your Hands and the pop jam Get Straight featuring award-winning artists Monty G and Mr. Lynx.
“I would have to say that the single I released from the album T’is So Sweet ToTrust In Jesus is the song that is most personal to me,” Richa noted of the project. “This is the great lesson we sometimes have such difficulty with – simply to trust God and allow Him to have His way in our lives. It’s so much more rewarding and beautiful that way.”
Richa’s new album Refreshed is available in The Bahamas at 100% Bible Bookstore and Jukebox. Her album is also available by contacting her through Facebook or MySpace.com.

Interested in booking Richa or interviewing her for your publication? Call 1-242-225-1550 or 1-242-535-4522 and we'll be more than happy to connect you!

From Pageantry to Parliament: Miss Global Bahamas Contestants Pay Parliament A Visit

Politically Poised: Miss Global Bahamas Director Desiree Tynes-Moss and some of the participants meet Speaker of the House Hon. Alvin Smith after sitting in on a session. The ladies were guests of the Hon. T. Desmond Bannister, Min. of Youth, Sports and Culture who serves as the Patron for the first-ever pageant. (Photo by Arthia Nixon)

Nassau, The Bahamas…In keeping with their theme Ready for The World: A Global Mission, the participants of the first-ever Miss Global Bahamas Pageant made it their mission to learn about their country as they observed the inner workings of the House of Assembly on Wednesday.
The ladies and organization President and Director Desiree Tynes-Moss were the special guests of Member of Parliament for Carmichael, the Hon. Desmond Bannister who serves as the Patron for the historical pageant. The ladies were acknowledged by Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Hon. Alvin Smith from the bench and got the rare opportunity to speak to their Members of Parliament and various Ministers on issues affecting their respective platforms. The Parliamentary visit was preceded by a courtesy call to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture with Min. Bannister and Permanent Secretary, Archie Nairn in addition to a radio interview.
“I don’t think I recall beauty pageant contestants attending the House of Assembly as a group,” the Speaker noted when speaking with the young ladies. “I am very pleased to see that you have made it your mission to observe this aspect of your country and to meet the Members of Parliament. I admire that your organization is focused on building character rather than external beauty. It speaks highly of what Mrs. Tynes-Moss is achieving by not only empowering young women but by also be an exemplary role model to them.”
Members of Parliament were also given a special invitation to attend the evening gown and talent segment of the competition set for this Sunday at 7pm, during which time the ladies will have the opportunity to speak out issues of a country making the news. Several of the Ministers also promised contestants from their constituencies that they would be attending the event as a show of support.
For more information e-mail info@missglobalbahamas.com or call 242-525-3122.

Miss Global Bahamas Beauties Set For Swimsuit Competition Following Launch and Tour

Historic beauties – The participants of the first-ever Miss Global Bahamas Beauty Pageant pose after their official launch with Regional Director and President for Miss Global Bahamas, Desiree Tynes-Moss and International President Lachau Ramchandani (centre). (Photo by Donald Knowles for MGB)

Nassau, The Bahamas…Fresh from their island hopping tour of historic San Salvador and the pink sand beach of Harbour Island, the stunning ladies of the first-ever Miss Global Bahamas beauty pageant will be making waves this weekend when they participate in the highly anticipated swimsuit competition.
The sizzling event will take place this Sunday at 2pm poolside at the Wyndham Nassau Resort and Crystal Palace Casino on Cable Beach under the patronage of the Hon. Desmond Bannister.
“The judges certainly have an arduous task ahead of them with these amazing, confident, intelligent and beautiful Bahamian women who are already ambassadors for their communities in New Providence and the islands they hail from such as San Salvador, Crooked Island and Grand Bahama,” said Desiree Tynes-Moss, president and regional director of the pageant. “Already, the ladies have been busy with a day of beauty, a trip to San Salvador as the special guests of the Miss and Teen pageant there, a photo shoot on Harbour Island and attending the launch of E-Life Magazine among other workshops and sessions.”
“Something we reiterate with Miss Global Bahamas is that we are not your typical pageant,” added Mrs. Tynes-Moss during the launch that was attended by international chairman for Miss Global International, Lachau Ramchandani. “We consider ourselves an organization that focuses more on leadership, personality and character rather than physical beauty.”
Mr. Ramchandani, a respected veteran in the industry noted that The Bahamas has a lot to offer the pageant world and the caliber of ladies who have entered the competition are truly worthy of wearing the international title.
“I am very pleased to be a guest in this wonderful country and pleased with what I have seen so far in this pageant,” he said. “In all my years of pageantry, I must commend the Miss Global Bahamas Organization for treating me to one of the best launches I have ever seen. The participants are making history as the first contestants and I admonish each of them to give their best.”
For more information and tickets call 242-525-3122, e-mail info@missglobalbahamas.com or visit their Facebook page.

“It Costs That Much To Raise Me?” Financial Workshop To Teach Teens Dollars and Sense

Nassau, The Bahamas… Many parents affected by the present economic slump are finding themselves answering questions like “Why can’t we have fast food?”, Why can’t I have that new gadget?” and even “Why are you taking me out of private school?” to a generation that seemingly doesn’t understand the value of a dollar these days.
Now, those questions and more can be answered on Saturday April 18th and 25th in a Providing Money Skills Youth Need For Life workshop at the British American Financial Centre on Independence Drive. The 10am to 2pm and 3pm to 7pm sessions will be hosted by Creative Wealth Bahamas, organizers of Camp Millionaire and The Money Game.
The brainchild behind the workshop is former banker Keshelle Kerr, founder and CEO of Creative Wealth Bahamas. She is also the founder and vice president of a woman’s investment group called FFL Investments Ltd. Trained in Santa Barbara, California, Kerr is the only certified creative wealth coach in her native Bahamas.
“April is financial literacy for youth month and in these times it is essential for us to talk to our kids about the changes in our lifestyle due to the downturn in the economy,” said Kerr. “I have a nine year-old daughter and until I sat down and explained how money works to her, she did not fully appreciate the sacrifices that have been made for her to go to school, get tech toys or even go to her favourite restaurant. Many parents whose children enter our programmes thank us all the time because their kids are suddenly more money wise and aware of how much it costs to raise them and as a result, pressure their parents less.”
A part of the upcoming programme includes teens experiencing the proverbial “rat race” of working to receive a set salary and paying their monthly expenses. They are also given a choice whether to save any extra cash or purchase pleasure items.
“At the end of the day, teens realize what it feels like to pay rent and that a credit card does have to be paid off. They then learn about passive income, assets and liabilities, how and why to save and so much more.” “We have a vast demographic taking part in the course,” says Kerr.
Despite being a former banker, Kerr says the workshop is not about encouraging kids to get into banking but about empowering teens to follow their passion and to create financial freedom in their lives.
“The workshop is focused on making sure the next generation doesn’t make the mistakes of their parents by not being properly prepared,” she says. “It’s about making sure they are able to spend wisely, save for their futures, not have to deal with financial difficulties and know how to enter their adulthood as responsible individuals. All and all it’s about making sure they understand dollars and sense.”
For more information on the workshop and to register call 242-341-5860 or visit http://www.creativewealthbahamas.com/

Best-selling Seeds of Hope Author Grows Scenes of Hope With Drama

“You said a man who find a wife finds a good thing, but Lord you ain’t give me a wife – you give me a knife!”
Freeport, Grand Bahama…Having all three books in her Seeds of Hope trilogy hit best-selling lists around the world within the past year seems like an arduous task for many first time writers. Yet, Margaret C. Mullings is not your average writer. The stay-at-home mom and pastor’s wife is quick to admit she is still confused by many functions in her word processor but those who have read her work know that God has gifted her with a special anointing. Now those who have viewed her first screenplay Woman Will Thou Be Made Whole can see first hand of how she is capable of pulling in an audience to see the bigger picture.
Despite the title of Woman Will Thou Be Made Whole, this particular picture seems to zoom in on Kenny, an overwhelmed, overemotional, overburdened husband halfway down the cliff as he comes to the harsh reality that his once vibrant and vivacious wife Karen, is slowly losing her battle with cancer. Despite his tough love in forcing her to bathe, cook, get out of bed or take care their nine children, her deteriorating health seems to get the best of her in all situations except for her faith in God. Meanwhile, Kenny drops his masculine façade and reveals a side rarely seen in a strong black man as he sits at his kitchen table crying over what used to be instead of finding solace in the arms of another woman or alcohol, something audience members eagerly anticipate. Obliviously, he develops his own communication with God with the simple desperate cry: “Lord I don’t know how much more of this I can take. You said a man who find a wife finds a good thing, but Lord you ain’t give me a wife – you give me a knife!”
“Woman Will Thou Be Made Whole has been striking many chords, especially in terms of restoring faith that God has the last word on your health,” Mullings. “It seems however, that more people are connecting with the fact that Kenny is restoring the image of a hard-working, supportive and faithful husband, which is sadly a rarity today. Overall, I think there is an obvious message of hope in the play and the actors portray it perfectly. I know that God has assigned me to spread seeds of hope and it’s time to venture beyond the pages and I think that’s where visually, these scenes of hope are coming to life.”

Caribbean Hip Hop Mogul To Perform Live With Opera Legend At Music Awards

Nassau, The Bahamas... Guests and nominees of this year’s Marlin Music Awards will be in for a never before seen performance when Bahamian music icons Manifest and Joanne Callender take the stage for their ‘hip-hopera’ duet I Shall Rise on March 29.
The highly anticipated annual event, considered the Caribbean version of the Grammy’s combined with the positivity of the Stellar Music Awards, recognized Manifest at the last gathering in 11 categories as a nominee. This year, Manifest, who also serves as CEO of Dunamus Soundz Records is up for Song of the Year with I Shall Rise. The single from the Overcomers soundtrack has been in heavy rotation in the Caribbean and North America. It’s also featured on Manifest’s newly released Parables album and has listeners comparing his authoritative vocals to the likes of several well-known artists. However, the seasoned hip hop artist is quick to point out that his style is much different.
“Whatever I rhyme about comes from a deep spiritual connection I have with my Creator,” says Manifest. “My message is about hope and I do not believe in creating derogatory or offensive songs laced with cuss words or violence. This song in particular is self-explanatory – it’s about rising and overcoming no matter what people think of you and to stop being blind and finally seeing how awesome things can be. A part of the awesomeness behind this single is the hard work that Joann and Lee put into it to making it a trailblazing hit by more or less marrying hip hop and opera. Sure it sounds like an odd couple but when you actually sit and work on it, opposites attract.”
Bahamian diva Joann Callender is a stellar soprano who has given sold out performances all over the world accompanied by her husband, noted piano virtuoso Lee; the grandson of Timothy Gibson, who composed the Bahamas National Anthem. According to Manifest, the birthing of the song came quite naturally as the artists behind it were eager to unleash a new sound.
“We admire and respect each other as artists and that is very important in making a record that will be successful,” said Manifest. “It was a first time for both of us to venture so far away from our own sound but the riffs came out amazing and overall it offers something that inspires and empowers. We want that to come across when we perform in front of our industry colleagues.”