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BGIS Triumphs At The 35th Caribbean Media Awards In Belize

The Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS) copped two prestigious awards at the recently concluded 35th Caribbean Media Awards, hosted in Belize from August 11 to 14.

The BGIS was awarded the ‘Best Social Media Content Creator’ in the Digital Category with its captivating series, The Hot Seat Weather Quiz Challenge. The dynamic eight-part series, produced in collaboration with the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS), captured the imagination of viewers by featuring local personalities as they faced a lightning round of weather-related trivia.

The project seamlessly blended the meteorological expertise of the BMS team, led by Semelka Jackman, with the creativity of Information Officers Mikul Elcock and Aisha Reid, along with Chief Information Officer (CIO), Tyson Henry.

IN WINNERS ROW

Key contributions also came from Tia Browne, David Harding, Racquel Davis, Junior Brathwaite, and Rhea Whitehall, who played an instrumental role in developing the quiz content and coordinating the participation of guests. The series is available for viewing on the social media platforms of both the BGIS and BMS, as well as on YouTube, where it continues to engage and educate the public.

The organisation also claimed the award for ‘Best Coverage of Healthy Nutrition Food Policy’ in the Television category for its groundbreaking TV/web series, Grow Green Barbados.

This five-episode series delves into the crucial topics of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture, offering viewers insightful and practical information. Episode 3, “Organic Farming,” stood out among the competition, showcasing the inspiring journey of Grow Green Champions John and Justin Hunte as they cultivated their organic home garden.

The episode also featured Chef Adrian Cumberbatch, who dazzled viewers with a mouth-watering recipe crafted from organic ingredients.

Grow Green Barbados was more than just a series—it was a labour of love and a testament to the power of teamwork. The series was conceptualised and hosted by Dr. David Bynoe, whose vision brought the show to life.

Senior Information Officer, Kathyann Husbands and Web Content Manager, Esther Jones, spearheaded the production, ensuring that every detail was meticulously crafted to perfection. Information Officer Aisha Reid played a pivotal role in production management and concept development for both the main and chef segments, while Mikul Elcock’s filming, editing, and motion graphics added a dynamic visual flair to the series. Esther Jones also contributed additional filming and editing, leading the production and development of the compelling Grow Green Champion segment.

The series, available on the BGIS YouTube channel, not only highlights the importance of healthy living but also celebrates the local heroes who are making a difference in sustainable agriculture.

Congratulating the team members on their achievement, CIO Tyson Henry, stated that the two wins solidified the BGIS’ reputation “as a leader in innovative media production across the region”. He also gave special kudos to the BMS for its role in producing The Hot Seat Weather Quiz Challenge.

Mr. Henry continued: “As the BGIS embraces its achievements at this year’s awards, we are already setting our sights on the future. With the next Caribbean Media Awards slated to take place here in Barbados, the department is poised to make an even bigger impact, aiming to showcase our continued commitment to excellence and innovation in media production as a member of the regional media fraternity.”(PR/GIS)

Caption: The BGIS team won ‘Best Coverage of Healthy Nutrition Food Policy’ in the Television category for its groundbreaking TV/web series, Grow Green Barbados. (L-r) Senior Information Officer, Kathyann Husbands; Information Officer, Mikul Elcock; Information Officer, Aisha Reid; Web Content Manager, Esther Jones and National Coordinator, Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme – UNDP, Dr. David Bynoe

Local

EBC Officers Conducting Verification Of Addresses Exercise

The public is advised that Registering Officers from the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) are in the field conducting a verification exercise to confirm the address of each registrant. This activity is in accordance with the Representation of the People Act Cap 12, Section 12.

EBC Registering Officers will be wearing the department’s branded T-shirts with the official ID prominently displayed as they visit residents in districts across the island.

Householders are encouraged to cooperate with the Registering Officers and secure their pets or animals during the visit. (PR/GIS)

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Police Service Tips For A Safe Bank Holiday Weekend

As persons prepare to attend various events over this extended weekend, Crime Prevention Officer with The Barbados Police Service, Inspector Roger Babb, is encouraging them to “stay in control” as they enjoy themselves.

Inspector Babb reminds members of the public that drinking alcohol impairs their ability to make good decisions, and drinking and driving may result in accidents that can be fatal.

The Crime Prevention Officer shared these useful tips:

Do not feel pressured to drink alcohol; it is okay to say no.
Do not drink and drive, always have a sober designated driver.
If you drink, do so in moderation and never leave your drink unattended.
Do not let anyone bring a drink for you.
To avoid having your drinks spiked, buy your own drinks, and watch the bartender make or open them.
If you think your drink was tampered with, let someone know and seek medical attention.
Be cautious with strangers and do not accept drinks from them.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Never mix alcohol with other drugs.
PR/GIS

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SANDALS BARBADOS RECEIVES (CARPHA) AWARD

Sandals Barbados is the proud recipient of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Healthier Safer Tourism (HST) award.

The presentation was made recently at the Ministry of Health and Wellness office located in the Frank Walcott Building, St. Michael, Barbados.

Accepting the award for the Luxury Included Resort was General Manager Bruno Couesnon.

In his brief remarks Couesnon thanked every one of the team members who contributed to the resort’s recent accolade.

“It’s always nice to win awards; but it takes a team effort to achieve the results for which we are being recognized, today. The health and safety of our guests and team members are important to us and it is great to be selected and celebrated by CARPHA for doing our part and succeeding,” said Couesnon.

Executive Director of CARPHA Dr. Lisa Indar commended the hotel for achieving this internationally recognized award and praised its commitment to health and safety procedures.

“The 2019 Covid pandemic led to global shut down of tourism but it also demonstrated the resilience of the Caribbean by being able to bounce back. Part of that bouncing back was to be able to create a healthier and safer tourism experience and the reason you are here today is by being part of the tourism health programme and implementing proactive measures,” said Dr. Indar.

Some of the benefits of this award include being regionally and internationally recognized for healthier safer tourism endorsed by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO); the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

The award is the only traveler’s health award where compliance is assessed – it is measurable and verifiable, ensuring the safety of the tourist facility, staff and guests. It also gives a comparative, marketing advantage and gives value to the quality of service.(PR)

CAPTION: Sandals Barbados General Manager General Manager Bruno Couesnon (L) accepting the CARPHA award from Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George