NASSAU, Bahamas -- FirstCare Medical Plan, AML Foods, John Bull and Custom Computers donate valuable prizes to winners of the “Autism in The Bahamas: Building Relationships through Understanding” essay contest staged by FirstCare Medical Plan in association with R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas and the Ministry of Education.

The competition encouraged interested students to submit a 300-word essay on the topic to increase local junior and high school students’ social awareness of this neurobiological disorder during April, internationally recognized as Autism awareness month.

“We are overwhelmed with the number of entries received from students throughout The Bahamas,” stated Mario Carey, President of R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas. “Reaching students who are eager to learn about this prevalent disorder significantly bolsters our efforts to increase autism awareness locally.”

More than three dozen junior and high school students from around the Bahamas submitted essays on the topic including students from Nassau, Grand Bahama, Exuma and Acklins. A panel of judges will select three winners in early May.

“AML Foods through our brands, Cost Right, Solomon’s, Solomon’s Fresh Market and Domino’s Pizza is proud to support R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas in their fight to promote Autism Awareness.  It is important for everyone to learn more about this disorder that affects so many Bahamian families,” stated Renea Knowles, VP of Marketing and Communications, AML Foods Ltd.  

NASSAU, Bahamas -- Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes is presented with a copy of "Through the Eye," an insight into the history of black people in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, by author Franklyn G. Ferguson, during a courtesy call at Government House, April 10.

(BIS/Photo Raymond A. Bethel)

NASSAU, Bahamas -- FirstCare Medical Plan has partnered with R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas and the Ministry of Education to host an essay contest on the topic “Autism in The Bahamas: Building Relationships through Understanding” open to students grades 7 to 12.

The competition is being held to increase local junior and high school students’ social awareness of this neurobiological disorder during April, internationally recognized as Autism awareness month. Interested students are encouraged to submit a 300-word essay on the topic. Submissions will be accepted through April 30, 2013.

"The Ministry of Education is proud to partner with FirstCare Medical Plan and R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas on this initiative which will help to increase junior and high school students' understanding of autism and how to best interact with their peers who are affected by this neurobiological disorder," stated Lionel Sands, Director of Education.

FirstCare Medical Plan, as the sponsor of the competition has pledged to provide the grand prize winner with $300 and the first and second runner-up with $200 each. Each winner will also be provided with additional prizes from supporting corporate sponsors including John Bull.

“FirstCare is dedicated to helping Bahamians live healthy lifestyles.” stated Corinna Neely, President, FirstCare Medical Plan. Part of building a healthy society is educating our youth about tolerance and acceptance which is why we see great value in encouraging students to conduct their own research on autism and write informed essays on their interpretation of the topic.”

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- On Friday, March 8th, Grand Bahama residents joined with thousands of women, men and children worldwide who gathered on bridges to call for an end to war and to demonstrate that we can build the bridges of peace and hope for the future.  

As part of the 4th annual 'Join me on the Bridge' event, held at Garden of the Groves, organiser and Women for Women volunteer, Lynette McInnes, invited female high school students on Grand Bahama to submit an essay under the theme "What do Women’s Rights and Equality Mean to Me?"

Charlotte Craig, a Year 10 student at Lucaya International School, was the winner with honourable mention going to Sophie Paine and Asiyah Robinson.  All three ladies' essays are reproduced below.

For more information and to view a complete photo gallery visit the event Facebook page HERE.

Photo 1: Grand Bahama joined thousands worldwide who gathered on bridges to mark International Womens' Day March 8th (Photo: Dave Mackey/Mackey Media Ltd.)