While the principal was giving the report, the lights went out. However, with of flash lights provided by Pastor E. D. Clarke and using her preaching voice, principal Ash was able to complete her report.

Undaunted by the blackout and the absence of a public address system, the speaker, Minister Angela Palacious got up to address the class. Just as she was finishing her prayer, the lights came on.

Relating to the Class Aim "Striving to Achieve Excellence in 2001 and beyond," and Motto, "Commitment brings Excellence," the speaker admonished the graduates to avoid the negatives ways of striving to achieve excellence, and do it God's way by making a commitment to God, integrity, academic excellence and a well-rounded school life.

In making a commitment to God, the graduates were encouraged to "seek to please God by striving to do things God's way and for godly reasons." They should ask Jesus to be their Savior and Lord, and begin to serve Him now to "achieve excellence of character, of spirit, of mind." She suggested that anyone who had "not made a spiritual commitment. . .may graduate. . from a life of hopelessness, helplessness, sin and misery, or a cheap 'good-time' life-style.'

Commitment to integrity involves reflecting the character of Christ. This means telling the truth, being faithful, hard-working, committed, sensitive, and honorable. One who is committed to integrity will "emulate the best in adults around you and carefully avoid the worst."

One who is committed to academic excellence will engage in intense learning and use his/her time wisely. This includes the selection of activities and programs that will elevate one above mediocrity.

The speaker suggested that one who is committed to a well-rounded school life will develop his/her "gifts and talents with self-discipline." This means being different from the ordinary and "making definite difference. No babies before marriage, no gangs and anti-social behavior for Bahamas Academy graduates!

Graduates, parents and teachers were challenged to strive for excellence. Speaking on behalf of the Class of 2001, Travis Knowles, the Valedictorian, gave an impressive and comprehensive review of their journey through the grades at Bahamas Academy Elementary.

Although the program lasted over two hours, the smiles on their faces and the excitement in their voices indicated that parents, guardians and the graduates enjoyed every aspect o the program. -J. Carey, Director of Education

BACE Holds 11^th Awards Ceremony The Bahamas Academy Continuing Education Division held its Eleventh Annual Awards Ceremony, on Sunday, June 17, 2001, at 4:30 p.m., at the New Providence SDA Church, Soldier Road. Speaking on the theme, "Diligence, Perseverance, Faithfulness: Keys to Success," Mrs. Rowena Dames, Vice-President of Bahamas Seventh-day Adventist Educators Association, challenged the students to press on toward their goals and "never give up." She gave a personal example of the results of diligence, perseverance, and faithfulness.

In his remarks, Pastor K. D. Albury, Chairman of the School Board, commended all involved in the program for their contribution and encouraged the students to continue to do their best.

Mr. Ednal Collie, Director of the program, gave some highlights of the successes and challenges experienced in the program during the school year. Mrs. Alwhyne Scavella, administrative assistant, coordinated the distribution of the certificates and awards.

Dr. . A. Johnson, Executive Secretary of the Conference and Dr. Johns Carey, Education Director, were also in attendance and participated in the ceremony

ASI Adventist-Layperson's Services and Industries At its general meeting and election of officers for the ensuing two years preliminary election result reveal that Miss Alvira Thompson was elected president. Vice-presidents are Mr. Andrew Gilbert and Mr. Gabriel Valleray.

The mission of ASI is to empower Adventist Professionals to use their influence for God, among those who cannot be reached by the average church member. The Philosophy of ASI is that each member is a minister in the marketplace. Members Needed- Sharing Christ in The Marketplace. Do you own a business? Do you work for yourself? Do you have a ministry/project for reaching others? Are you a CEO, CFO, or hold and influential position in a company? Then ASI is for you! Watch for details on how you can join ASI.-A. Thompson, President

Grand Bahama Island- Northern Region The brethren of the Island accepted the Master's invitation to come apart and rest awhile. Many took advantage of the long holiday weekend to travel or rest. The Freeport Church family spent Sunday on the beach, but on Monday the tie was spent at the Grand Bahama Academy's annual Fair where there were lots of games, treats and eats.

On Wednesday, June 6, 2001, the Grand Bahama AIDS Awareness Committee sponsored a debate and panel discussion on AIDS. At this forum, a presentation of $100 was made to the Pathfinders Youth Band. On hand to receive this much needed donation was Associate Director of the group Mr. Federick Jervis.

Members of the Freeport Church spent a very quiet yet fulfilling weekend here on the Island. On Sabbath morning after five years, return visitors and Mike and Alexis Sutherland returned to tell us of the miracles of faith that the Lord has worked for them to start and keep the doors of their school open. Quoting from the Great Controversy page 525 and the Desire of Ages, they reminded us that Christian ought to claim God's promises and thank him even before we receive the blessing; ad everyone has a mission field even if it is small and starts right in our homes.

The personal Ministry's team kept this message alive during the divine hour. God's messenger Sister Arleen Sands reflected on Elisha who would not leave Elijah's side because he wanted the blessing to continue the work of the Lord. Sometimes we miss it because we are too far off.

The final moments of the Sabbath were spent focusing on Obesity in children. Sis. Joan Scavella showed how much sugar is consumed daily in a deceptive way, starting with breakfast in the morning. Labels should always be read carefully. The session continued with our own Dr. Tamara Burke, MD who stated that this is a nation wide problem, but we can follow a few steps:

• •Refer children to a physician early in case there is a problem.
• •Discourage the use of junk food and eating in front of the T.V.
• •Allow children to participate in preparing meals. Continued on page 2. That will teach them how to select the right food.

Constituency Meeting Tomorrow A special called Constituency Meeting of the Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists will convene on Sunday, June 24, 2001, at 9:30 a.m. at the Hillview SDA Church on Harrold Road. All delegates are requested to be on time.-Office of the Secretariat

Campsite Development Special Offering During our Mid-year Convention June 23, 2001, a special project offering will be collected for the development of the Campsite. We invite each member to plan to give a special love offering on this Sabbath.

Children's Ministries Mid-year Convention Parents and guardians are advised that the venue for the Cradle Roll, Kindergarten and Primaries will be at the Church of God Auditorium, Joe Farrington Road, June 23, 2001. -Sis. Rowena Smith, Children's Ministries

Announcement For The Position of Principal

Continued from p.1 Earlier this year, Mrs. Estherlean Ash, Principal of Bahamas Academy Elementary division, informed the School Board of her intention to relinquish her post as principal of the Academy as of July, 2002, in order to pursue other interests. The Conference Committee and School Board appreciate the contribution Mrs. Ash has made to the development of the school during her principal-ship and wish her success in her future plans.

Accordingly, applications from and nominations of qualified persons for the position are being accepted. The person selected for the position should have the following qualifications:

1. Be a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

• Hold at least a Bachelor's degree, but a Master's degree is preferred.
• Have at least five year's teaching experience in the elementary school.
• Have training and/or experience in School Administration.
• Possess effective communication skills with ability to work collaboratively with students, staff, parents, and the School Board.
• Have ability to create a safe, orderly school with discipline and security.
• Possess educational leadership skills with ability to implement innovative educational ideas.

The application should be accompanied by (a) a cover letter describing your present position, and (b) an updated resume. All applications or nominations should be submitted to: The Chairman, Search Committee; P.O. BOX N-356, Nassau, Bahamas. Fax:341-4088. The deadline for the receipt of applications is June 29, 2001, or until the position is filled.

Application forms may be picked up at the Conference Office or at Bahamas Academy Elementary Division. The Committee reserves the right to reject the applications of any or all applicants.

Grand Bahama Island-northern Region Continued from p. 1

• •They should become active by exercising regularly.
• •Drink up to six glasses of water daily. If these simple rules are followed, they will be able to avoid some of the adult diseases later in life. It was a well spent Sabbath Day - only eternity will tell.

Pastor P. A. Scavella held a constituency meeting in the Abaco district on Sunday, June 11^th where the members were further updated on the Northern Region Mission progress. The historical update of this thrust was outlined and the benefits to the area highlighted. It was the concerns of the area to work together.

There were some concerns about the ability of the committee members from the Abaco District getting together among others concerns. A vision and plans were outlined that will soon eradicate the concerns of the northern region.

Youth Ministries Announcements

**Application forms for the Adventurer Camp will be available during Mid-year Convention June 22 to 24.

**Youth Director Pastor Clarke, says thank you to all Pathfinders and Masterguides who attended and supported the march at the funeral for the late Sis. Arimentha Colbrooke.

**The Pathfinder Camporee to be held August 22 to 27 will soon be here. All persons planning to attend. The approximate cost is $500 (airfare $300 miscellaneous expenses $200) A $50 deposit is requested by June 29, 2001. Please make every effort not to be left out!

**Youth Leaders are reminded that the names of all Adventurers, Pathfinders, Masterguides are to be turned into the Youth Department Office.

**A Youth Revival and Camp meeting will be held July 29 to August 5. Watch for additional information.

**A Youth march will be held on the afternoon of June 23 at 4:30 p.m. beginning at the Fox Hill roundabout and culminating at the Joe Farrington Road auditorium.

Adventists Health Professionals Association The AHPA will host a trip to Uchee Pines, Seals, Alabama September 23 to 30, 2001. See your local Health Leader or contact Marlene McKinney at 364-0085 after 6 p.m. Deposit required by July 30^th.

Vacation Bible School July 2001 is designated Vacation Bible School month. All churches are encouraged to utilize this avenue of the church to lead children to Christ.- Personal Ministries Dept.

BAS Final Entrance Exam The final entrance exam for all students desirous of attending Bahamas Academy Secondary in September will be held Friday, June 29, from 9 a.m. to noon. Application forms should be collected from the school and turned in on or before the morning of the exam.- Lynn Smith, Vice-principal BAS

Bahamas Academy Elementary Summer School BA Elementary summer school will be held June 25 to July 20, 2001, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Regular Summer School package $200 (Mathematics, Reading/Phonics, Language, Art/Craft, Music, Computer, Movies).

• Swimming + Other activities $175 (Art/craft, Music, Computer, Movies)
• Swimming only $95.00

14^th Annual Jeff Rodgers Basketball Camp July 2^nd to 27^th, 2001 Jeff Rodgers, 14^th annual Basketball Camp will be held at the B A Gym from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday. Application forms are available at the Youth Dept. of the Conference and B A Secondary during regular office hours. Boys and girls ages 5 to 18 are welcomed.

Masterguides Club Formed A Masterguides club was formed on June 9, 2001, by the Southwest Federation/ The following officers were elected: Sis. Margaret R. Guillaome, Director; Bro. Kirkwood Clarke, Associate Director; Sis. Ursula Rolle, Secretary; Sis. Eustace Jennings, Assistant Secretary; Bro. Tyrrell Miller, Treasurer; Bro. Christopher Hanna, Assistant Treasurer; Sis. Benita Exalus, Assistant Public Relations Officer and Bro. Alfred Styles, Chaplin..

The purpose of the club is to unite all invested and in-training masterguides to meet regularly. The club will promote witnessing programs. Masteguides will be able to take an active part in the A Y Society by helping others and to spread the gospel to others in the Community. The club will see to promote current AY Honors, refreshes AY Honors, field trips, seminars, outreach programs; and provide means for learned skills to be sharpened.