The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation (MOTIA) is thrilled to announce the Inaugural West End Bootleggers and Seafood Festival, set to take place on Saturday, November 23, from 12 noon to 10:00 p.m. at Commissioner's Field in West End, Grand Bahama.

The inaugural event will showcase aspects of West End’s rich history, particularly during the US’s rum prohibition era, and its mainstays of fishing and tourism.

Nuvolari Chotoosingh, MOTIA’s General Manager in Grand Bahama, highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to bringing exciting new events to the island.  “West End is the capital of bootlegging, and also known as the seafood capital of Grand Bahama.  It is part of the Ministry of Tourism's mandate to bring new and exciting events such as this to the island, so we're doing just that,” he stated.

The festival will offer a wide range of seafood and grilling options, and rum! Junior chefs from St. George’s High School and Jack Hayward High School will showcase their culinary fusion skills preparing tantalising seafood dishes and local breweries and distilleries will be on hand, showcasing their products and offering samples of cocktails and rums.

The Bahamas Distilling Company and Caribbean Bottling Company, in particular, will be stationed at several locations on the festival grounds, near Coffees on the Bay, and next to Brother Eddie's famous Gully Wash stand, where attendants will be serving a twist on the traditional gin and coconut water drink, incorporating Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum and Vita Coco coconut water.  

Festival-goers can also check out an upscale twist on the classic Cuba Libre called the Cuba Libre 2.0, featuring Angostura premium rums, as well as specialty cocktails alongside classic mixed drinks.

Entertainment from local artists will also be a highlight of the festival with performances by crowd favourites K.B., Geno D., and Stevie S., and additional entertainment by Phase Four Band, Lil Joe, and The Trouble Band.

Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary within the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini, noted that “West End was also known as the capital for bootleggers and rum running along with the island of Bimini.”  The history adds a special touch to the festival, highlighting the unique cultural heritage of the quaint community.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Garvin Evans of the Royal Bahamas Police Force assured that police would be in full force to ensure safety throughout the event.  “We encourage all residents to come out, have fun, and enjoy themselves because it will be a safe environment,” he said.

The Ministry of Tourism invites residents to join the celebration, enjoy the entertainment, and sample the creative beverages at the West End Bootleggers and Seafood Festival on November 23 at Commissioner's Field in West End, Grand Bahama.

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation (MOTIA) is thrilled to announce the Inaugural West End Bootleggers and Seafood Festival, set to take place on Saturday, November 23, from 12 noon to 10:00 p.m. at Commissioner's Field in West End, Grand Bahama. The inaugural event will showcase aspects of West End’s rich history, particularly during the US’s rum prohibition era, and its mainstays of fishing and tourism. Nuvolari Chotoosingh, MOTIA’s General Manager in Grand Bahama, highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to bringing exciting new events to the island.  “West End is the capital of bootlegging, and also known as the seafood capital of Grand Bahama.  It is part of the Ministry of Tourism's mandate to bring new and exciting events such as this to the island, so we're doing just that,” he stated. The festival will offer a wide range of seafood and grilling options, and rum! Junior chefs from St. George’s High School and Jack Hayward High School will showcase their culinary fusion skills preparing tantalising seafood dishes and local breweries and distilleries will be on hand, showcasing their products and offering samples of cocktails and rums. The Bahamas Distilling Company and Caribbean Bottling Company, in particular, will be stationed at several locations on the festival grounds, near Coffees on the Bay, and next to Brother Eddie's famous Gully Wash stand, where attendants will be serving a twist on the traditional gin and coconut water drink, incorporating Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum and Vita Coco coconut water.   Festival-goers can also check out an upscale twist on the classic Cuba Libre called the Cuba Libre 2.0, featuring Angostura premium rums, as well as specialty cocktails alongside classic mixed drinks. Entertainment from local artists will also be a highlight of the festival with performances by crowd favourites K.B., Geno D., and Stevie S., and additional entertainment by Phase Four Band, Lil Joe, and The Trouble Band. Kingsley Smith, Parliamentary Secretary within the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini, noted that “West End was also known as the capital for bootleggers and rum running along with the island of Bimini.”  The history adds a special touch to the festival, highlighting the unique cultural heritage of the quaint community. Assistant Superintendent of Police Garvin Evans of the Royal Bahamas Police Force assured that police would be in full force to ensure safety throughout the event.  “We encourage all residents to come out, have fun, and enjoy themselves because it will be a safe environment,” he said. The Ministry of Tourism invites residents to join the celebration, enjoy the entertainment, and sample the creative beverages at the West End Bootleggers and Seafood Festival on November 23 at Commissioner's Field in West End, Grand Bahama.

Wrapping up a full slate of various activities celebrating 'National Public Service Week' during October and early November -- public servants enjoyed their Float Parade through the city streets, today.  

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey says the legacy of Obadiah H. Wilchcombe will live on in the hearts of the people of West End and Bimini.

“From West End to East End, to Bimini and other islands of The Bahamas, he is truly someone we will continue to admire and celebrate,” Minister Moxey added in her remarks just before the start of a gospel concert in memory of Wilchcombe.

“We know that Obie has done so much for this community, has done so much to ensure that people’s lives were positively impacted.”

In spite of the inclement weather scores of people from throughout Grand Bahama and even from other islands of The Bahamas gathered at the Eight Mile Rock Gymnasium on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to be a part of the One Love Gospel Concert that was held in recognition of the one-year anniversary of the death of former Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, Obadiah Wilchcombe.

In reflecting on those moments when she received the phone call that Obie had passed, Minister Moxey said it was a call that would change her life, her family’s life and the lives of those living in West End and Bimini. She described it as a sinking feeling, a pain she feels will only diminish over time.

“Obie envisioned a better Bahamas for all Bahamians,” she added. “He empowered and inspired people. His loved ones, friends, constituents and everyone he met were left 'the better' after being around him. He was a consummate journalist and broadcaster. He was a veteran politician as a senator, Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister and leader of Government business in the House of Assembly.

“So, on behalf of our Prime Minister and the Government of The Bahamas, we honor the memory of a true patriot, and the champion for the people of Grand Bahama.  Tonight, as we lift our voices in praise, let’s remember the good times we shared with our friend.  Let us give thanks to God for the life of Obadiah Wilchcombe and the commitment he had made to this country.

“I want us to continue to ensure that his legacy lives on and that [his] legacy would inspire future generations.” 
The concert featured the Cooling Waters, Simeon Outten, Shabach, West End Primary School, Holmes’ Rock Primary and the Eight Mile Rock High School.

Also bringing brief remarks before the start of the concert, was Member of Parliament for West End and Bimini, Kingsley Smith, who admitted that it would be almost impossible to forget Obie and the work he did in his constituency.

“The people of West End and Bimini will not let me forget Obie,” said Smith. “Although I’m in my own shoes, I still feel an obligation to try and walk in the footsteps of Obie and that’s a tough act to follow.”

Smith noted that Wilchcombe was more than just an MP, but a pillar in the constituency of West End and Bimini, a warrior leader and a great example of leadership. He pointed out that the former MP and Cabinet Minister was someone who epitomized leadership, someone who’s life reflected a heart of service and commitment to faith, family, friends and the entire country.

“He had a self-sacrificial, others-oriented love, both as an individual and as a politician.”

Quoting from the famous “love chapter” in the Bible (Book of 1 Corinthians 13), Smith noted that the verses adequately described the former Member of Parliament. He said the scriptures reflected the power of 'one love' and working together, which was a theme of Obie’s life.

“One love is what propelled people like Obie to succeed and constantly give their best in service to others,” Smith added. “He was about building and not breaking; he believed in the best and wanted the best for others. He chose to give more in his time on this earth, than what he took. The way he responded to external and internal challenges, spoke volumes. He was resilient and he preserved. He had self-discipline.  We all saw these qualities in Obie and that’s why so many of us can gather here to celebrate his memory.”

Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey says the legacy of Obadiah H. Wilchcombe will live on in the hearts of the people of West End and Bimini. “From West End to East End, to Bimini and other islands of The Bahamas, he is truly someone we will continue to admire and celebrate,” Minister Moxey added in her remarks just before the start of a gospel concert in memory of Wilchcombe. “We know that Obie has done so much for this community, has done so much to ensure that people’s lives were positively impacted.” In spite of the inclement weather scores of people from throughout Grand Bahama and even from other islands of The Bahamas gathered at the Eight Mile Rock Gymnasium on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to be a part of the One Love Gospel Concert that was held in recognition of the one-year anniversary of the death of former Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, Obadiah Wilchcombe. In reflecting on those moments when she received the phone call that Obie had passed, Minister Moxey said it was a call that would change her life, her family’s life and the lives of those living in West End and Bimini. She described it as a sinking feeling, a pain she feels will only diminish over time. “Obie envisioned a better Bahamas for all Bahamians,” she added. “He empowered and inspired people. His loved ones, friends, constituents and everyone he met were left 'the better' after being around him. He was a consummate journalist and broadcaster. He was a veteran politician as a senator, Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister and leader of Government business in the House of Assembly. “So, on behalf of our Prime Minister and the Government of The Bahamas, we honor the memory of a true patriot, and the champion for the people of Grand Bahama.  Tonight, as we lift our voices in praise, let’s remember the good times we shared with our friend.  Let us give thanks to God for the life of Obadiah Wilchcombe and the commitment he had made to this country. “I want us to continue to ensure that his legacy lives on and that [his] legacy would inspire future generations.”   The concert featured the Cooling Waters, Simeon Outten, Shabach, West End Primary School, Holmes’ Rock Primary and the Eight Mile Rock High School. Also bringing brief remarks before the start of the concert, was Member of Parliament for West End and Bimini, Kingsley Smith, who admitted that it would be almost impossible to forget Obie and the work he did in his constituency. “The people of West End and Bimini will not let me forget Obie,” said Smith. “Although I’m in my own shoes, I still feel an obligation to try and walk in the footsteps of Obie and that’s a tough act to follow.” Smith noted that Wilchcombe was more than just an MP, but a pillar in the constituency of West End and Bimini, a warrior leader and a great example of leadership. He pointed out that the former MP and Cabinet Minister was someone who epitomized leadership, someone who’s life reflected a heart of service and commitment to faith, family, friends and the entire country.   “He had a self-sacrificial, others-oriented love, both as an individual and as a politician.” Quoting from the famous “love chapter” in the Bible (Book of 1 Corinthians 13), Smith noted that the verses adequately described the former Member of Parliament. He said the scriptures reflected the power of 'one love' and working together, which was a theme of Obie’s life. “One love is what propelled people like Obie to succeed and constantly give their best in service to others,” Smith added. “He was about building and not breaking; he believed in the best and wanted the best for others. He chose to give more in his time on this earth, than what he took. The way he responded to external and internal challenges, spoke volumes. He was resilient and he preserved. He had self-discipline.  We all saw these qualities in Obie and that’s why so many of us can gather here to celebrate his memory.”

Jael Joseph has officially relaunched BlackIslandGirl.com, transforming her passion project into a dynamic multimedia platform that caters to a wide array of interests and communities. Originally created in 2021 as Joseph’s capstone project at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), Black Island Girl has now evolved into a comprehensive digital space that reflects her creative vision and commitment to representation, storytelling, and empowerment.

The newly revamped site features a broad range of content sections, including Beauty, Business, Culture, Entertainment, Health and Wellness, Politics, and “The BIG Feature,” a spotlight segment focusing on in-depth stories and profiles. In addition to articles and features, the site’s new “What’s New” section provides event promoters with the opportunity to list their events, making Black Island Girl a go-to source for cultural and community engagement.

One of the most significant changes in this relaunch is the platform’s shift towards multimedia offerings. Businesses can now request custom commercials and podcasts, giving them new avenues to promote their products and services. This expanded functionality opens the door for Black Island Girl to tap into every corner of modern media, creating a space that engages audiences through multiple forms of content.

Advertisers can now leverage the platform’s growing reach, promoting their brands and services within a diverse and inclusive community. Jael Joseph’s vision for the site goes beyond traditional media, offering opportunities for men and women alike to find inspiration, learn, and connect.

The relaunch of Black Island Girl comes at a time when Joseph is dedicating more time and energy to the project, following the registration of Black Island Girl Multimedia. This business venture further underscores her intent to build a creative and empowering space. Under the same multimedia banner, she also released her debut film Territory, a powerful short documentary that has been recognized internationally. Territory was nominated at several film festivals and took home the award for Best Short Documentary at the 2023 Caribbean Tales International Film Festival, marking another major achievement in Joseph’s creative career.

This relaunch highlights the multifaceted talent of Jael Joseph and her dedication to creating a platform that not only showcases her work but also serves as a source of inspiration for others. With its enhanced offerings, Black Island Girl is now positioned as a go-to multimedia hub for those interested in culture, wellness, business, and more.

As Joseph continues to focus her energy on Black Island Girl, the platform is poised to become an essential digital space that empowers and uplifts. Whether through its rich content, multimedia offerings, or community-focused event listings, Black Island Girl is set to carve out a unique niche in the media landscape, fueled by Jael Joseph’s passion and creativity.

Jael Joseph has officially relaunched BlackIslandGirl.com, transforming her passion project into a dynamic multimedia platform that caters to a wide array of interests and communities. Originally created in 2021 as Joseph’s capstone project at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), Black Island Girl has now evolved into a comprehensive digital space that reflects her creative vision and commitment to representation, storytelling, and empowerment. The newly revamped site features a broad range of content sections, including Beauty, Business, Culture, Entertainment, Health and Wellness, Politics, and “The BIG Feature,” a spotlight segment focusing on in-depth stories and profiles. In addition to articles and features, the site’s new “What’s New” section provides event promoters with the opportunity to list their events, making Black Island Girl a go-to source for cultural and community engagement. One of the most significant changes in this relaunch is the platform’s shift towards multimedia offerings. Businesses can now request custom commercials and podcasts, giving them new avenues to promote their products and services. This expanded functionality opens the door for Black Island Girl to tap into every corner of modern media, creating a space that engages audiences through multiple forms of content. Advertisers can now leverage the platform’s growing reach, promoting their brands and services within a diverse and inclusive community. Jael Joseph’s vision for the site goes beyond traditional media, offering opportunities for men and women alike to find inspiration, learn, and connect. The relaunch of Black Island Girl comes at a time when Joseph is dedicating more time and energy to the project, following the registration of Black Island Girl Multimedia. This business venture further underscores her intent to build a creative and empowering space. Under the same multimedia banner, she also released her debut film Territory, a powerful short documentary that has been recognized internationally. Territory was nominated at several film festivals and took home the award for Best Short Documentary at the 2023 Caribbean Tales International Film Festival, marking another major achievement in Joseph’s creative career. This relaunch highlights the multifaceted talent of Jael Joseph and her dedication to creating a platform that not only showcases her work but also serves as a source of inspiration for others. With its enhanced offerings, Black Island Girl is now positioned as a go-to multimedia hub for those interested in culture, wellness, business, and more. As Joseph continues to focus her energy on Black Island Girl, the platform is poised to become an essential digital space that empowers and uplifts. Whether through its rich content, multimedia offerings, or community-focused event listings, Black Island Girl is set to carve out a unique niche in the media landscape, fueled by Jael Joseph’s passion and creativity.