NASSAU, BAHAMAS—The 1920’s era of prohibition, bootleggers and Charlston-dancing high society ladies was re-created at Albany recently for the glamourous “Bootleggers’ Ball” Speakeasy. The fundraiser was in aid of the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (B.R.E.E.F.) and its national teacher and student education programme.
Amidst bobbles, bangles, and beads, bootleggers with ‘tommy-guns,’ fat cigars and fashionable hats set the stage for a fun night reminiscent of a by-gone era in The Bahamas noted for its oceans filled not only with ships laden with barrels of forbidden liquor, but also an abundance of groupers, lobsters and other marine-life.
A mock casino won over the crowd while a competitive rich bounty in the silent auction and a bootlegger’s treasure-trove of raffle and door prizes, thrilled. Bahamian jazz singer Stazzy crooned favourites of the time and energetic Charlston dancers raised the temperature. Dion Turnquest band: Tingum ‘Dem kept ‘em dancing following the gourmet dinner prepared by noted Chef Leudders.
Ball co-chair Etoile Pinder said the success of the fund raising will make a tremendous impact on BREEF’s teacher and student training programme. “We can increase the frequency and reach of our educational programmes throughout the islands starting with our 14th annual, 8-day Marine Conservation Teachers Training Workshop at the Gerace Research Centre on San Salvador in July.”
Founded in 1993 by the late Sir Nicholas Nuttal to address growing concerns on the state of The Bahamas’ marine environment, BREEF educates people on The Bahamas marine environment and how to protect t. For more information, visit www.breef.org, telephone (242) 327-9000, or email breef@breef.org.
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