The Abaconian October 15, 2012 Section A

October 15, 2012

VOLUME 20

NUMBER 20

The Abaconian

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OCTOBER 15TH, 2012

Historic Cabinet meeting outlines plans for Abaco

Cabinet was held on Abaco on October 2, 2012. This marks the first time it has been held outside of Nassau. Ministers of the government along with the Prime Minister were present for the closed meeting. After the government ministers emerged they laid out some decisions which had been made for Abaco.

Town meeting run amok

By Timothy Roberts After holding a historic Cabinet Meeting in Abaco on October 2, Prime Minister Perry Christie and his ministers announced a number of decisions made for Abaco, including more than $1.6 million in promised road repair and infrastructure and a pledge to increase police manpower on the island.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works Philip Brave Davis noted that his ministry made a decision to improve the roads after a site inspection in September and are now making “final decisions” to fix pothole-filled roads and infrastructure in Marsh Harbour, Dundas Town, Murphy Town, Great Abaco and Green Turtle Cay. The projected works include remedial and improvement road works at Marsh Harbour, Dundas Town and Murphy Town with the expected expenditure of about $1 million for the work. Work in Green Turtle Cay is expected to cost $250,000.

Mr. Davis said that a contract awarded by the former administration was not finished by the contractor and that the government plans to complete work on Forrest Drive’s Sidewalk at an additional $150,000.

“This government shares your concerns and feels your frustration and can Please see

Cabinet

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Business community attends Abaco Outlook

A live-televised town hall meeting was held on October 4 to discuss issues relevant to Abaconians. Tempers flared as the line between politics and problems became increasingly blurred. Police had to be called as cameras cut to commercial during a particularly heated segment. Above: a heated crowd, seated divisively along party lines, drown out the responses of the panelists. For the full story see page 5.

Above: Geoff Houston at the 9th Annual Business Outlook. During his presentation he noted the 800% increase in data consumption since the unveiling of BTC’s 4G network.

By Canishka Alexander A Stronger Abaco: A Stronger Bahamas was the focal theme of the 9th Annual Abaco Business Outlook held at New Vision Ministries on September 26. The agenda included a diverse line up of speakers with Dennis Lightbourn, vice president

of the Abaco Chamber of Commerce, giving the welcome address along with an update on behalf of the Chamber before the Honourable Obie Wilchcombe, Minister of Tourism, gave his remarks on "A 21st Please see ABO

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report the necessary materials for the projects have been ordered with a view of commencing work immediately,” Davis said.

Minister of National Security Dr. Bernard Nottage said many residents have complained about the need for more police on the island. He said that the Cabinet has authorized him to look into this and he will discuss the matter with the commissioner of police to see how manpower can be boosted.

He added that he is concerned about the security of a number of government buildings, including the structure that houses the Treasury Department.

“We are concerned that perhaps the time has come for us to review the provision of policemen for the entire island of Abaco,” Nottage said. “In recent times the criminal profile has changed and on the weekend, for example, we had two armed robberies which have created a tremendous amount of concern for us.”

Minister of Education Jerome Fitzgerald said three preschools will be built on Abaco while his ministry seeks to allocate more scholarships to the island and has started to expand the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute in Abaco.

“There are three areas where we identified where there is a need for attention,” Fitzgerald said. “The first is in the area of preschools. When I came into Abaco in June I realized that there were no preschools in North Abaco at all.”

“We identified the three locations and over the next four years we have committed that we will build three preschools in North Abaco. The first one should start as early as next year.”

Another significant development is

that the government is in the final stages of approving a multi-million dollar fish farm to be created north of Green Turtle Cay, Abaco.

According to Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Local Government V. Alfred Gray, “We are nearing the end of those discussions and I hope the government will soon be able to announce a $15 million investment by a Bahamian company called Aqua Abaco,” Min. Gray said.

Minister of Health Dr. Perry Gomez said two mammogram machines ordered for the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) in Nassau and the Rand Memorial Hospital in Grand Bahama have arrived in the country.

Gomez said the machine for PMH was scheduled for installation on October 1 and staff will be trained to use it. The machine for the Rand in Grand Bahama will be installed this month as well, Gomez added.

“This will enable women and men throughout the Commonwealth to obtain state-of-the-art testing and follow up care for an illness that is so very common in our country; it’s time that we address that properly,” Gomez said.

He added that the mini-hospital currently under construction in Abaco is set for completion in June 2013.

This Cabinet meeting marked the first time it has ever been held outside Nassau.

The Opposition has charged that the entire exercise was a waste of public funds and a political ploy considering the upcoming North Abaco by-election. The Prime Minister defended his decision to hold Cabinet outside of Nassau and announced tentative plans to hold Cabinet on Grand Bahama and other Family Islands in the future.

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The Bahamian Flag being raised, for the first time on Abaco, to indicate that Cabinet is in session.

October 15, 2012

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All Abaco Court of Appeal orders BEC to publicly consult on operations In a recent order by the Court of Appeal, the Bahamas Electricity company (BEC) was made aware that it must engage in public consultation regarding the operation of its Abaco power plant. According to the Responsible Development of Abaco (RDA) the court decision makes Abaco residents privy to any decision regarding the power plant. Permits are now required for construction and “full and timely” public consultation must be held regarding operational decisions.

The $105 million project has had struggles since its inception regarding location, fuel type, abandoned pipeline plans and public scrutiny. Among the most glaring issues, according to the RDA, was the fact that the decision to construct the power plant at Wilson City was made in 2005 but that decision was not made public until 2008. The Court of Appeals upheld RDA’s judicial review on this, and other grounds.

RDA charged, and was upheld in the Court of Appeals, that the 2009 Town Hall Meeting regarding the power plant was not adequate as meaningful public consultation since construction had already commenced. The Court of Appeals could not find evidence that BEC had had any meaningful public consultation regarding the construction and location of the Wilson City power plant prior to its construction.

Also of concern to RDA was that no Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was submitted to the Bahamas Environment Science and Technology (BEST)

Commission. Considering this, the Court of Appeals agreed that the public legitimately had an expectation of consultation.

The Court of Appeals dismissed RDA’s application of constitutional relief because it was “based on essentially the same facts as [the] judicial review application hence there was duplicity in launching both claims rendering the constitutional relief claim an abuse of the process of court.”

The RDA expressed the case was a “huge win” and that they felt “public authorities will not want to go through the same court process and loss” again. They are confident that going forward proper consultation with Abaconians will occur.

Police called at town hall meeting On October 4 a town hall style interview with panelists was held at the Anglican Parish Hall in Marsh Harbour.

The meeting was moderated by long-time television personality, Darold Miller, and Radio Abaco and Bahamas Christian Network owner Silbert Mills. The panelists were met with questions from the moderators including the upcoming gambling referendum, the political campaign in North Abaco, the economy and the recent Cabinet meeting held on Abaco. There was also a contentious question and answer session later in the program that required police intervention. The meeting was televised live on Cable 12.

As the Parish Hall filled with audience members it became clear that party alliance would be clearly demonstrated.

Yellow-clad Progressive Liberal Party supporters filled the right side of the room while their red-dressed Free National Movement counterparts occupied the left.

Throughout most of the evening if a statement was made by a political representative, either the Hon. Zhivargo Laing or the Hon. Kenred Dorsett, audible boos or cheers were made. This behavior required the moderators to make special mention for the crowd to settle down and to respect the panel members.

The panel included Minister of Environment and Housing- Kenred Dorsett, Abaco Chamber of Commerce spokesman- Dave Ralph, Senator and former Minister of State for Finance- Zhivargo Laing, Central Abaco District Council Chief Councilor- George Cornish, and Abaco member of the Bahamas Christian Council- Pastor Steven Knowles. Mention was made that despite the many prominent Abaco women in business and politics, none were present on the panel. The moderators apologized to the viewers.

The election dominated a large part of the conversation that night. The Hon. Laing made clear that the seat “belongs to the people of North Abaco” and that his party is hopeful they will return their candidate, Greg Gomez, to the seat. The Hon. Dorsett, representing the Progressive Liberal party’s views, reinforced the idea put forth by the Prime Minister that their candidate, Renardo Curry, will have a direct line to the government. The Hon. Laing came back asking that if all the projects had been promised regardless of the winner, referring to the recent decisions from the Abaco Cabinet meeting, then why would it matter who won the

seat in North Abaco.

Regarding Mr. Gomez’s now famous Nassau Guardian Radio interview, where the candidate was unable at the time to answer questions regarding his employment, the Hon. Laing came to his defense. He said that since the interview it had been confirmed that Mr. Gomez had in fact been employed by several schools in the state of Florida and that, during the interview, there had been “no lapses in his honesty.” Responding to murmurs in the crowd Mr. Laing said, “I am not here lying to anyone, neither did Greg Gomez.”

The Cabinet meeting was met with a more tempered response by both the crowd and the panelists. Mr. Cornish said the event was a “good opportunity for the Ministers to see what their Ministries are doing on Abaco.” Pastor Knowles commended the exercise saying that between energizing the young people and the exposure it gave Abaco and the fact that, perhaps, the idea of a “One Bahamas” was promoted was good.

Representing the Abaco Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Ralph said, “We don’t get overly involved in politics. But it speaks well to the area that we could handle it. We welcome the publicity.”

Moving back to the election and the calls of victimization and passionate debates that have been occurring in the community, Mr. Cornish stated that, “I’ve never seen it like this before in my life.

Abaconians have to realize that all these Ministers will leave, but Curry and Gomez will be left here.” He continued, Please see

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The Abaconian October 15, 2012

All Abaco Abaco Urban Renewal 2.0 awaits official launch

By Jennifer Hudson Although still awaiting its official launch, the Urban Renewal 2.0 program began on Abaco on August 27, 2012.

Abaco Urban Renewal involves the Police Department, Social Services, Ministry of Works and the Department of Environmental Health. W/Sgt. 2483 Jocelyn Smith, who is heading this program, is assisted

by P/C 3203 Kenton Clarke, WPC 3278 Vanessa Moss and WRC 643 Janice Jones.

“These people were chosen to make up the team for different reasons and altogether have nine years of community relations work between them. W/Sgt Moss and WRC Jones are both Creole speaking which helps considerably in dealing with the Haitian population,” stated W/ Sgt. Smith. The police team has already made assessments in Dundas Town, Murphy Town, Coopers Town and Blackwood and put forward the names of persons who need help.

A major focus will be working with problem students in the schools, explained W/Sgt. Smith, and to this end the police have put forward a number of initiatives to be implemented in schools under the heading of the RENEW programme. This will be geared towards suspended students. W/ Sgt. Smith , in her daily duties of patrols and school visits, observed the need for a program to help students who are experiencing behavioural challenges as a result of oppressed home situations, bad relationships, unsupervised homes and criminal

elements in the home.

“If students who have been suspended from school have nothing to do they get in trouble so something had to be put in place,” she realized. She has organized a reformative and developmental program based on volunteers from the community with the goal of renewing the attention and good behavior of suspended students and showing them that the wider community cares and has their interests at heart.

This will involve counseling, job training, community service and leadership training.

“Through carefully designed programs and active community participation, RENEW will provide solutions and practical ways for challenged you to become productive citizens,” stated W/Sgt. Smith.

Assisting her in the RENEW programme are Whitney J. Bain of the Whitsun Leadership Group (Leadership) ; Margaret Smith, Christian Counseling Centre and Vernelle Swain, Wellspring Leadership and Development Centre (Counseling) ; Ishmael Morley, Ministry of Youth (Basketball); Pastor Erlyn Baillou, Senior Pastor New Rehoboth Ministries International, Elaine Pilon, Retired Liaison Officer, Cayman Islands Prison Department (Dance) and Jawette Evans, Dept. of Social Services (Community Service – helping in Old Folks Home, Cleaning Parks etc.).

A Drill Corps programme is planned throughout the entire Abaco’s. This will be a disciplinary and also after-school programme which is for all students, not just those who have got themselves into trouble, and will focus on learning to be part of a team and police drills. Officer Clarke will run the program for boys in grades 4

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The Marsh Harbour Urban Renewal Team. Left to right: WPC 3278 Moss, P/C 3203 Clarke, W/Sgt. 2483 Smith. to 6 while Officer Moss will run the program for girls. Sgt. Dorsett of the school police unit will be in charge of the high school programme. This programme has already begun in Abaco Central High, SC Boodle, Coopers Town Primary and Treasure Cay Primary. The team has also been to Hope Town and Man-O-War to speak regarding the drill and officers have been assigned to those areas.

“Drill competitions will be planned in the future between the different schools and also the students will be invited to perform drill displays at various events such as the annual Independence ceremony.

Parental involvement will be an important factor and once a month there will be a

social gathering to encourage interaction at which the students will put on a display for parents.

Another incentive is the Etiquette Programme which is designed for grades two and up. This program will be interactive with whatever the school already has in place for disciplinary measures such as detention. “We will visit the students in detention and teach them basic etiquette such as the way to walk in the street, way to eat and where they should not eat and how to become responsible adults,” explained Officer Smith.

Please see

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The goal of Urban Renewal 2.0 is to reach out to not only the young but also the elderly and will include initiatives such as a homework centre, after-school clubs, chess and tennis instruction, leadership clubs and a soup kitchen. Officer Moss is in charge of activities for senior citizens and her plan for the period September to December is to hold a luncheon for them at which they will be congratulated and thanked for their good works, enjoy entertainment and be presented with bags of groceries.

Officer Clarke is planning a basketball tournament for November 3 between the various government agencies. This will be an event which the community can come and watch and persons will also be invited to participate in segments such as free throw etc.

The police team will also be dealing with the problems of stray dogs and litter.

“Any community that has an issue we will deal with it,” stated Officer Smith. “There are laws on the books concerning dogs regarding their containment in a secured area and licensing. We are receiving a lot of complaints from tourists who are being chased on the beach and also bitten by stray dogs. We are following up all complaints and if the dog owners ignore the warnings then they will be prosecuted. Dumping of garbage and littering is another problem which we will be dealing with in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Health,” stated Officer Smith.

“Urban Renewal is an awesome task,” stated Officer Smith. “We need to be focused and prepared to deal with what we have to deal with. We will be dealing

with social issues but also ready to deal with criminal offences if they occur. All issues will be passed onto the relevant department required to deal with it.” Mentors are still needed in all areas and W/Sgt. Smith asks anyone interested in assisting to call either herself at 367 5623 or Vernelle Swain at 551 4631.

Abaco humane societies struggling to continue great work

By Jennifer Hudson The large number of stray dogs and cats on Abaco pose an ever-growing problem. Were it not for a number of animal lovers who devote much of their time and money in trying to help these animals and control the problem the island would be overrun. While there are many people who own dogs which they love dearly, treat them well and keep them in a fenced in yard, there are also far too many that get puppies and then when the animals are grown abandon them. They become a nuisance in neighbourhoods; biting people and tipping over garbage cans which have not been secured.

These animals have often not been spayed or neutered and so breed prolifically, compounding the problem. The police, through their Urban Renewal programme, are reminding the public that there are laws which require dog owners to make sure that their pets are licensed and kept in a fenced in area. There are too many situations in which dogs are chasing and biting tourists and locals on the streets and on the beach. Many of these dogs do not

have homes, hunt in packs, are undernourished and unhealthy. The people who work tirelessly to try to control the problem and provide a better life for these animals are so often overlooked and are greatly to be commended.

Angie and Nick Lowe of Treasure Cay have been helping dogs for as long as they can remember. “We help dogs anywhere on Abaco, driving from Crown Haven to Sandy Point to pick up strays.

Between spaying and neutering, shipping abroad and finding homes here for puppies we have helped several hundred animals,” Angie told me. “We also care-take puppies ourselves and treat them for mange. We have 22 dogs of our own, 20 of which we rescued.”

Two years ago Angie and Nick took on the official title ‘Cause for Paws’ for their work so that a bank account could be opened in this name to receive monies donated towards their work. Every year the Bahama Beach Club in Treasure cay hosts a fundraiser dinner with an auction which brings in between $8,000 and $10,000.

While this is a great help for which Angie and Nick are very grateful, they regret that the money doesn’t last long considering how many expenses they have to cover for these animals so in between they hold bake sales and other small fundraisers.

Several of the dogs which Angie and Nick take in are shipped over to the Royal Potcake Rescue in Atlanta which is run by a lady who owns property on Green Turtle Cay. Other dogs are shipped to a lady in Palm Beach. “We trust both of these places for the dogs and the ladies find good homes for them,” says Angie. While Angie and Nick also help stray cats, 90% of the ani-

mals they deal with are dogs.

Angie is very grateful for her husband’s help whom she says takes off plenty of time to assist her. They give much credit to both vets here, Dr. Bailey and Dr. Hannah, who very generously assist them in their work. They do need more help with legwork, however and anybody who would like to assist in that way or by donating funds can call them at 475 0695.

Friends of Abaco Animals is another group which assists with stray dogs and cats. Janie Thompson, who is a key worker for the group, she said that their job is harder these days because there is less money around and people who are willing to assist the humane societies are overwhelmed. Janie has devoted many years of hard work to this group which her sister, Candy Key, started in 1982.

Friends of Abaco Animals started in Hope Town but now covers the whole of Abaco. Janie herself looks after 10 dogs and what she terms as a ‘gazillion cats.’

“All our foster homes are now full so we have no more room for fostering any more dogs,” she laments. Potcake puppies are sent to Warm Hearts in Fort Lauderdale and Royal Potcake Rescue in Atlanta which also sponsors spay and neuter clinics on Abaco using the local vets. “We have done a big Job on cats on Green Turtle Cay and are very appreciative of the women in Hope Town who organize the feeding stations for cats. It is very difficult to find homes for cats as nobody wants cats. We have a yard sale every January which provides three quarters of the money for our Please see

Humane

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The Abaconian October 15, 2012

From the Editor's Desk

Wow. Where do I start this issue?

A history-making Cabinet session? Roads being paved in Central Abaco? Big infrastructure promises from the government that may or may not (depends on who you ask) be politically motivated? What people are going to get me for my birthday this month? The by-election?

Ah, yes. The by-election.

So, election time. Big decision my North Abaco friends. The country is watching you, as you are aware, and your candidate choice will be echoed in the news cycles for weeks and weeks after as the losing side, no doubt, will continue to drag the other through the mud and pundits will debate your pick. PLP, FNM or BCP: they won’t soon let you forget where you collectively marked your “X.” But they’re going to do so at a distance. You, we, are going to be here left with our decision and to pick up the pieces.

Seeing so many important people on our island is intoxicating. The Prime Minister one day, the leader of the opposition the next, and rally after rally of parading politicians. We’ve got quite the circus carousel going round and round. And us, I don’t think we got this worked up even during the General Election. Of course, I understand why. It’s not every day that Abaco gets so much attention.

Let me say this now. I have nothing but respect for our political leaders. Yes, they are all flawed, some very deeply, but they are in public service and I have to believe many of them are in fact trying to do their best for us, the Bahamian people.

But here is the problem. They have all, both the FNMs and the PLPs, made Abaco their bully pulpit for the past few months. They’ve whipped us up and pitted us against each other based upon the colour

The Abaconian Bradley M. Albury Editor-in-Chief AB 20213 Marsh Harbour Abaco, The Bahamas

of the shirt we wear. No doubt effective in rallying votes, but it’s making a mess.

After the election and we’ve put away our pom poms and posters we’ll have to look each other in the eye again. Mr. Gomez and Mr. Curry will have remain here, regardless of who wins the seat. And they, in fact share some family. We all share some family. But that hasn’t prevented this whole ordeal from getting pretty nasty.

When these Ministers and Opposition members leave us we will have to pick up the pieces. We will no longer be PLP supporters or FNM generals: we will once again be Abaconians. We need to remember that. The politicians will return to Nassau and the cameras and journalists will follow. Not “The Abaconian,” though, we’re sticking with you.

October 15 will come and go. But your brother and sister Abaconian will still live next door to you and shop at your store and drive past you on the way to work.

Don’t get caught up in a game that has no real winners.

I think we gave ourselves a big enough black eye during the October Town Hall Meeting.

That meeting started out all wrong.

I watched as people filed into the building for what should have been a discussion about problems and topics relevant to Abaco. Red shirts sat on one side and yellow shirts on the other. It was surreal. You would have thought that every issue related to Abaco was linked directly to politics. It was clear nothing of substance would be learned. It was going to be a dog and pony show.

On live television. A national broadcast.

Mr. Laing would speak and the yellows mumbled and hissed under their breath terrible things. Mr. Dorsett spoke and the red shirts berated his every point. I call them red shirts and yellow shirts. I’m not calling them Abaconians because that night what I saw where people consumed by a political groupthink. Not the rational, close knit folk I know Abaco people to be.

Things settled down, and I became a little encouraged as I saw all the youth who were present that evening. Obviously hungry to participate in society and learn what problems Abaco faces, these are going to be our next generation. When I walked out I wouldn’t be so encouraged.

We got to the main event, Phillipa Rolle-Curry told her story. I’m not going to comment one way or another about the content of her story. As far as I’m concerned that won’t matter to the pub-

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// Respect

lic much longer after October 15. What will be remembered is the way we acted.

I don’t have to recount that story, either.

You can read it on page five. All I want to say is that it is exactly the kind of thing that worries me. Look at Bahamians during the Olympics. You won’t find a group of people more cohesive. That should be us. Not robots repeating campaign slogans over and over and destroying friendships for what amounts to very little.

Again, I respect our country’s leaders. I just wish they respected us a little more.

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Bradley Monty Albury Editor-in-Chief // The Abaconian

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October 15, 2012

The Abaconian

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Letters to the Editor Please Note:

Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of “The Abaconian” or its staff. Letters are presented “As Is” with minimal editing. Names are removed along with overly inflammatory content. Anonymity is respected.

Happy reading.

Apologies to a Lawyer Dear Editor: Today, Oct.1, 2012, I received a letter from a lawyer from Nassau telling me that a local lawyer is suing me and taking me to the Supreme Court in Nassau. I really don’t understand why this particular lawyer would hire a lawyer to sue me.

I have been a friend to the lawyer for life, and so have my children. He is also my lawyer and my children’s lawyer. We have a great deal of confidence in his firm, but he feels like I owe him an apology for the letter I wrote to you on Sept.1, 2012.

My brother Michael V. Malone had three lawyers in Marsh Harbour. Therefore, I apologize to the lawyer for whatever you think I said about you.

With apologies, Yvonne M. Malone-Albury-Key

Trapsetters Taste Their Own Medicine Dear Editor, I find it absolutely humorous how people can become so pathetic and point fingers screaming “victimization,” forgetting that they, too, were first planning the same ordeal. Since the General Election, FNMS could be heard like squawking seagulls complaining about “victimization.” What they fail to realize is that they are only getting a taste of their own medicine.

For the past five years of Mr. Ingraham’s government, complaints could be heard coming out of North and Central Abaco about his supporters in the government offices denying persons on the six-month government job because their families were PLP. But enough of the “he said- she said.” It’s time for me to state not what I heard, but what I know.

During this time, I was fresh out of high school, ready to work and take what the real world had to offer. My mother called one of Mr. Hubert A. Ingraham’s so-called female “generals” in a North Abaco office because she had the list and applications of persons to be hired. While trying to get me on the list, she received a reply from this female saying, “This is for Torchbearers only.”

Fast forwarding to mid-April 2012, a few weeks before the General Election, I was (and still am) a 52-week programme trainee. Out of an office of seven persons, and being the only present PLP at the time (besides one other) – indirect statements were made such as “if you ain vote for Mr. Ingraham and you on this program, you gone” and “people too ungrateful; they getting send home” along with: “them PLP ain ga get nothing, and I’ll make sure.

When the Port finished: none! The control tower: none! The airport – only FNM!” These were followed by paroxysms of laughter and side glances.

Unfortunately for them, I did not vote for the FNM. I was smart enough to realize that this 52-week programme was just an election scheme to win some votes…but thanks for the $200! God is my supplier, and no man can intimidate me – no man!

I supported Renardo Curry then, and I’m going to support him again! To those who campaign using victimization, remember in the Good Book: One of the things the Lord hates is a heart that devises wicked schemes.” – Proverbs 6:18 and “If a man digs a pit, he will fall into it. If he rolls a stone, it will roll back on him.” – Proverbs 26:27.

Everything you did wicked when the FNM was in power is now acting as a boomerang. What you sow, so shall you reap!

Gold & Bold, Erakesha Hield (Support Renardo Curry!)

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www.HopeTown.com T info@hopetown.com (w) 1.242.366.0224 (us) 1.561.208.8369 (f) 1.242.366.0434

Service You Deserve. People You Can Trust.

Faith Restored Dear Editor, I sometimes tell my friends that I am losing my faith in humanity, but this afternoon it was restored.

During a trip to Crossing Rocks this afternoon I experienced two flat tires. Before many minuets a truck pulled up driven

by Lowell Burrows of Sandy Point who helped me on my way. Mr. Burrows was thoughtful, polite and friendly as well as being a reserve policeman.

I wish to publicly thank Mr. Burrows and hope this letter will encourage others to stop and assist when needed.

Patrick J. Bethel

victim.

Any Bahamian in their sane mind can see that immigration is the number one problem to be dealt with. You think it is the debt we’re in but of course we won’t be able to keep money if we have to always send it to social service who aid immigrants with their six to eight kids in school, or when we always have to deport them or buy hundreds of medical products per-week to send to clinics, hospitals that have 70% of immigrants in their waiting rooms.

To make a long story short, how can we keep money when we always have to use it on these people, these burdens on our government’s shoulders? Indeed immigration is the cause of most of our problems……think about it Bahamian Talk 367

Immigration Crisis Dear Editor, We Bahamians have been nice for too long, having murders and bank robberies linked to you is more than enough! Time for these people to go! It is a crying shame we did not give the DNA a chance, they would have solved this problem for us!

These immigrants have invaded out educational institution, our health care systems, our job opportunities and our beds!

Now they’re invading our homes more aggressively with guns and taking it to the banks.

When the government fails to please you, you move them. We kicked out the FNM, please PLP….do not be the next

The Editor received an unusual amount of letters this issue. For the rest turn to Section B (Lighthouse) Page 21.

Do you have a letter?

Email:

BradleyAlbury@gmail.com

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The Abaconian October 15, 2012

Central Abaco Stride for Life Walk organized

By Jennifer Hudson The Abaco Cancer Society would like to thank the 20 persons who turned out on October 6 to participate in the annual Stride for Life Walk. Lilian Cash, Society President, said that she was disappointed, though, that the event was so poorly supported this year. Registration took place for the 5K walk at 7:00 a.m. which proceeded from the BAIC Park to the airport roundabout and back. Included in the registration fee was a free ‘Stride for Life’ T shirt. While the majority of the participants chose to walk, Kim Roberts, Leazona

Richard and friend ran the five miles.

The Stride for Life Walk is held annually in October since October is Breast Cancer awareness month. It serves both as a fundraiser for the Cancer Society and to raise awareness of this dreadful disease.

Cancer has affected countless hundreds of Bahamian men and women over the last decade. The walk is designed to promote healthier lifestyles and to raise cancer awareness in general but breast cancer in particular.

The Stride for Life walk was first begun in Nassau in 2004 and has been held on Abaco for the past few years. While the Cancer Society of the Bahamas was hoping all of the family islands would support this event only Nassau and Abaco organized a

Stride for Life walk with Grand Bahama organizing a 4 mile relay.

At the end of the walk tables were set up for participants to purchase several Cancer Society items with logo such as key chains, mugs and recyclable bags.

Funds raised from the walk will help towards providing airline tickets for cancer patients and screening clinics. Once again the Abaco Cancer Society wishes to thank all those who participated and would like to encourage more people to come out and join in the walk next year.

Summer Madness delights audience

By Jennifer Hudson Judging by the response of the full house audience on September 29 at the Faith Convention Centre, the performance of Summer Madness by James Catalyn and Friends was a resounding success and greatly enjoyed. Everybody left with beaming faces and great praise for the cast.

This was the group’s third appearance on Abaco and its visits are always greatly anticipated.

Fifteen skits were performed including some musical numbers, all of which had the audience ‘in stitches.’ These skits, while providing much fun and laughter, all have a serious theme and so enable people to examine crucial issues of the day in a thought provoking but light hearted manner. This year marks the 30th year in which the annual Summer Madness revues

have presented ‘every aspect of Bahamian life, from politics to religion to social commentary, highlighting these many aspects of Bahamian life through the medium of comedy.’

This year the timely subjects highlighted by the group’s special brand of comedy included the seemingly never ending chaos of road works in Nassau, crime, ‘tiefin’ and buying and selling of stolen goods, ‘the good life’ in Fox Hill prison, extra marital relationships, the Prom and social climbing. All of the acts were very professionally executed but special praise goes out to Chigozie Ijeoma who, I was pleased to see, once again this year gave another of his outstanding impersonations of Hubert Alexander Ingraham in ‘Dey Teef Muh Tings’. James Catalyn always makes his programme very topical and so had included various references to a couple of Abaco’s social problems.

In his programme notes Mr. Catalyn stated that; “ The players are at home on any stage; have performed on every “2 x 4” stage in Nassau and The Bahamas and worked and performed under challenging conditions that may have daunted many performers”. Saturday night at the Faith Convention Centre may have added one more list to their challenges. The stage was certainly less than satisfactory and did indeed become quite dangerous causing many of the audience to sit with bated breath hoping that an accident would not happen The cast are to be praised for their Please see

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Above: some participants of the Stride for Life Walk.

Some actors from the James Catalyn and Friends troupe after the performance on September 29.

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agility in working around a gaping space in the middle of the stage without letting it mar their performance and, fortunately no legs were broken. It is to be hoped that when they come next year a sturdy and safe stage will be provided for them.

The James Catalyn and Friends Theatrical Group is presently the Bahamas’ leading troupe in ethnic Bahamian Theatre. The group came into existence as the brainchild of renowned Bahamian writer, poet, satirist, Bahamian dialectician and actor James Catalyn. They are well known throughout The Bahamas, having performed on many of the family islands and are also internationally known having given performances throughout the United States, Canada and the West Indies and as far afield as New Zealand. In addition to their 30 annual Summer Madness reviews the group has also performed many fulllength features, one act plays, cultural shows and television performances and troupe members can also be heard and seen in many of the locally produced television and radio commercials.

At the close of the performance Mr. Catalyn came onstage and explained that through these reviews he is trying to teach Bahamians to laugh at themselves. Over the years all works performed by the group have been written by Mr. Catalyn himself but he stated that he has always encouraged members of the group to develop their writing skills so that they can take over after he has gone.

Three of this year’s skits were written by up-and-coming writers Jovan But-

ler, Juliet Holmes and Kennedy Storr. Mr. Catalyn dedicated this 30th annual review to members of the troupe who are now deceased. He also introduced new art director, Omar Williams, who thanked the audience for their kind hospitality and presented a cheque to Leazona Richard of the Abaco Pathfinders as an act of giving back to Abaco.

The audience had a chance to meet with the cast at the end of the evening since they formed a reception line in the lobby so that people could greet and chat with them as they left.

Humane

From Page 7 spay, neuter and release program.”

Janie Thompson implores people to spay and neuter their animals. “Please don’t let them breed,” she begs. “If you don’t have the money then contact the vets and they will contact us to assist you.”

Willis ‘Pops’ Weatherford is another great friend of the downtown potcakes.

Over two years ago he opened a shelter for these stray dogs on land which used to be the Marsh Harbour dump. This shelter, which began by housing just a few dogs, is now home to almost forty.

“They eat a huge amount of food each week and we need donors of food, money and time,” he says. While Pops has some volunteers who help bathe, feed and find adoptive homes for the dogs, he needs more help and can be contacted at Pop’s Place in Marsh Harbour at 367 3796.

Other animal rescue organizations which are doing excellent work for the stray potcakes of Abaco are Friends of Abaco Animals, Abaco Animal Rescue Coalition and the Treasure Cay Humane Society. If you know of any other organizations please contact The Abaconian so they may also be recognized.

Petition to bring a Cable Bahamas office to Abaco is being circulated Since the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority town meeting was held in late September it has become increasingly clear that Abaco customers want Cable Bahamas to open an office on the island. The status quo, which involves going through the local banks to pay bills, has many customers upset especially since additional fees are involved with this process. At the end of October a petition will be sent to Cable Bahamas with signatures from affected customers.

To have your name included in the Cable Bahamas petition, one can contact Curtisa Ambrister at 458-3178.

Olivia Key caring for potcakes at Pop’s Animal Shelter.

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The Abaconian October 15, 2012

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Business

An entrepreneur spotlight: Abaco businessman tackles garbage problem

By Canishka Alexander The Opportunity: Toward the back of the P & A Fabricating Company building, Paul Mills was already deep into his work one September morning. Donned in his signature blue bandana with black shades atop his head, he was hunched over a ruined garbage bin.

As he looked up, Mills’ face was riddled with disappointment.

“This garbage bin has never had any maintenance on it. It actually was brutalized,” he said. “It’s like a body when the body dies the soul is gone. The bottom of this garbage bin is completely gone – it’s rotten, decayed.”

Because the water had not been drained out and raw food had been placed directly in the bin’s interior, deterioration was widespread. Complicating the problem even further was the lack of proper maintenance, which meant that rats and dogs had easy access to whatever was put into it.

Turning back to the project at hand, he measured seven inches from the garbage bin’s base going all the way around the rusted area that would be cut off and eventually be restored. Next, he would sand it down, repaint it, re-fabricate the bottom and make it live again.

“These seven inches that I’m cutting off has to be replaced with a new seven inches to make the garbage bin completed to the capacity that it used to hold,” he remarked.

He then used a lever to draw a chalky line marking the seven inches that would be removed. The next step would be to cut all the way around the garbage bin until the bottom dropped out. Afterwards, he would

go into his steel pile, and retrieve steel to restore it to its former height and a capacity of 72 inches of steel on the bottom.

When it was first built, Mills used 3/16 of an inch of steel, but this time around he redesigned the remaining structure with a quarter of an inch of steel so it would be stronger, last longer, and “take all the punishment that the world out there has to offer.”

“You know people really don’t take care about their garbage bin until it’s gone,” he said, disapprovingly. “So my advice to you is to have your garbage bin serviced at least once a year.”

For grocery stores, business establishments and apartment complexes, large capacity garbage bins are used and can hold about six yards of fill. The medium capacity bins are designed for homes and can contain a little over a week’s worth of garbage. All in all, the dumpsters have a lifespan of five to ten years.

Disappointment resurfaced again when he considered that the garbage bins are built right here on Abaco – tax free and duty free – nevertheless, people usually search abroad to purchase them. This has limited business for him, so he can’t afford to hire people to help him when he makes a sale once or twice a month.

But he knows that people will inevitably call on him when dogs knock their garbage out of the barrels and need him to pick the garbage up from their streets and yards. Undeterred, Mills said that what he is accomplishing at his business on a small scale is the new way and the new look for housing garbage.

“We have to leave the past behind

Above: Paul Mills, local entrepreneur, is using his skills in fabricating to create animalproof garbage storage. He urges Abaconians to seek solutions close to home and to buy local. sometimes, so we can reach for the future. And this is the future – housing our garbage where the dogs and the wild animals cannot destroy it or put it all over our lawns.”

Based on his visionary approach, Mills said a proposal was made to local and central government to provide the community with the garbage bins, so that garbage collectors would have no issue with picking it up. He envisions a cleaner environment,

better neighbourhoods, and a proper place to throw things people no longer want.

The Challenge: Nevertheless, Mills acknowledged that he is being overlooked for reasons he is unsure of. Sadly, he believes that one reason could be that he is Bahamian. For Please see

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him, it’s a shame because many Bahamians were schooled in different countries to learn how to manage the things we come across.

“I’m home where there’s no place else in the world I‘d rather be, but my business is not moving successfully. It’s not because of me. It’s because our government is not instilling in our people the proper way to facilitate the things that we need to do. For once garbage should be housed in the proper facility. They give the garbage contracts to people who don’t even have the trucks because there is a kickback or because they are a friend of theirs or family. This is wrong to our economy. We are robbing our economy out of things that it should have because of who you know and not what you know. And that’s killing us.”

“In order for us to come back and be a strong nation, we have to give people the respect of the things that they can do instead of who they know. Because who you know sometimes can’t do the things that you told them and want them to do.

Everybody wants something for helping somebody. Why can’t you just do something for somebody and feel good about it?

I feel good about my whole conversation because I know what I am doing here is keeping my community and my country and that’s why I’m working so hard at it.”

“We are bringing in foreign investors and foreign this and foreign that, and we have everything here in our own backyard.

It’s just like the medicine we reach for and buy in the pharmacy, and we have it right

in our bushes. But we search so far to find what we already have. We have a future in Abaco.”

A Future for Abaco Mills is a part of that future. He is a steel worker who does welding and fabricates steel, and he has been employed by Berman Bros. Inc. in Jacksonville, Fla.; Canam Steel Corporation; Seacrest Closure in Milwaukee, Wis., The Railroad Company repairing railroad cars; and Waste Management’s Waste Equipment Department.

After leaving Abaco in the early 1960s, he went to Freeport searching for a purpose and a way to help. He started working as a busboy and eventually worked his way up to a waiter and a chef.

In 1979, he relocated to the United States after meeting people from there.

“It was amazing, opportunities were all around, and I was a person with a vision,” Mills recalled. “I saw everything I wanted to do and become. People were motivated, people were going places, people were doing things and people were successful. And the part about it that captured my eyes was that people were people wherever you go and your respect took you as far as you wanted to go.”

In his time abroad, Mills was grateful to his mother for being the only guidance and counsel he knew, and for being a hard-working parent. With a purpose behind what he wanted to do and a desire to return home, Mills had no time to waste.

Of course, he went through varying challenges, but he learned to get back up.

Please see

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Integrated Medical Center

is pleased to announce the schedule of Clinics for October 2012 Walk in Welcome Same Day Appointments No Long Waits No referrals needed The place where complete healing begins Dr. George Charité Tel: (242) 367-1304 • Fax: (242) 367-1305 MEDICAL DIRECTOR

e-mail: imcabaco@gmail.com

SLEEP APNEA TESTING NOW AVAILABLE & STAT IN-HOUSE BLOOD RESULTS Dr. Rashida Brown-Clarke; Psychiatry Please call for date

Dr. Charles Diggis: General Surgery/Lap Band Surgery Please call for dates Dr. Arthur Clarke: General Surgery & Urology Oct 27th Dr. Carnille Farquharson; Family Medicine Oct 17th, 24th & 31st Dr. Winston Forbes; Cardiology/Internal Medicine Call for dates Dr. F. Bartlett; Pediatrics Oct 13th & 14th Dr. Lucio Pedro; Obstetrics/Gynecology Please call for dates Dr. Timothy Williams, General Practice Please call for dates Dr. N. Akazie, Oct 19th & 26th Dr. Marc Binard, General Practice & Internal Medicine Please call for dates Dr. George Charité; General Practice, Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine, Daily TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT CALL OUR FRIENDLY STAFF AT 367-1304/225-8014 OR FOR EMERGENCIES 458-1234

Bahamas Striping teams up with candidate for court project

Above: Abaco businessman, Atario Mitchell of Bahamas Striping, along with PLP candidate Renardo Curry and community volunteers, stripe and repaint the Murphy Town Basketball Court.

By Canishka Alexander The blaring midday sun did nothing to deter the collective efforts of those who pitched in during the restoration project to restripe the Murphy Town basketball court at Abaco Central High School on September 29.

In a joint venture between the Progressive Liberal Party’s North Abaco Can-

didate Renardo Curry and Bahamas Striping Company President – Atario Mitchell – the work began at 9 a.m. with a handful of young men from the community.

Mitchell, who grew up on Abaco, was pleased to support Curry because it gave him the opportunity to give back to Please see

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Further Business ABO

there are plans to roll out the LTE network by next year. With the unleashing if BTC's flagship stores across The Bahamas, Marsh Harbour will receive its own in six weeks' time. Indeed, the Bahamas' market has been revolutionized by the products that are now being offered.”

Next in line was Bradley Albury, Editor-in-Chief of “The Abaconian.” Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, Albury expressed unrelenting optimism in the face of adversity. He said that despite the longstanding recession, Abaco still remains as the third and fastest growing economy in The Bahamas. He reminded his colleagues to remember their history and to carefully manage our resources. Despite external and internal challenges faced by Abaconians, we are still pictured as a thriving community. While our story is still be written, Albury envisions our island growing in a sustainable way.

Soon Janette Isaacs, founder of Jemi Health and Wellness, advised that there must be healthy living for a stronger Abaco.

Sadly, many of the illnesses that lead to death are not only treatable, but are preventable. However, it is because of poor eating habits and lack of exercise that we have imprisoned ourselves in the chains of chronic illness like hypertension, cholesterol and diabetes. Added to the high rate of mortality is the high cost of health care.

Her philosophy is simple, "If you empower people, they are more motivated to want to make changes and want to do good."

Motivation was also key for Manuel Messina, The Bahamas' IICA representative. His role is to give technical assistance to government and private entities so that they can identify opportunities to help them grow and market their products. Based on his last workshop with Abaco farmers, Messina acknowledged the need for institutional strengthening, rural development, sustainability and education of farmers.

"You have to work on something more than beaches," he admonished.

Messina didn't have to wait long to

From Page 1

Century Paradigm."

Min. Wilchcombe believed that Tourism's slogan of being "Better in The Bahamas" should be the standard that is adhered to on each island. He fully commended the nearly completed airport terminal in Marsh Harbour adding that the airport runway requires more square footage to accommodate bigger aircrafts.

On another note, his ministry is working closely with the Bahamas National Trust to ensure the sustainability of what we have. He added that the bottom line is ensuring that we create jobs as we place emphasis on the delivery of quality service to our visitors.

Renward Wells, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Works, spoke concerning "Infrastructure Plans for Abaco."

Before mentioning upcoming plans, he announced that all government departments will be housed in the new government complex by November. Funding is all allocated for the resurfacing of the Treasure Cay International Airport Runway and repairs to roads in Marsh Harbour, Dundas Town, Murphy Town and Green Turtle Cay. Repairs to the Cooper's Town Dock are nearing completion and docking facilities in North Abaco are under review.

"Be assured that the government's commitment is to provide services necessary to the island," he pointed out. In response to the prevalence of pot holes on Abaco roads, Wells said that within the week they expected to receive a shipment of Perma Patch to patch holes and possibly get crews out of Nassau to assist with the repairs.

National Insurance Board Director Algernon Cargill braced the topic of "National Insurance: A Stronger Safety Net for All." Cargill said he was convinced of the impact NIB has had on the lives of Bahamians as they celebrate their 38th An-

Above: keynote speaker and Minister of Tourism the Hon. Obie Wilchcombe, explains some new directions the Ministry is taking along with praising certain policies of the previous administration which are being kept. He also made reference to the possibility of expanding Marsh Harbour’s runway to accommodate larger aircraft. niversary. He was pleased to emphasize the success of the NIB Prescription Drug Plan, wage ceiling increase and labour force coverage to name a few. He added that most of the 22 amendments made are now enforced.

However, he stressed, the Bahamian people are a part of this success.

"While the fund remains strong, it can only remain strong with your support," he advised.

Eric Carey, BNT's executive director, also spoke of Abaco's success. With the management of six national parks on Abaco, there are incredible opportunities for outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling and kayaking, he said. Carey said Bahamians can create small business opportunities based on our marine environment.

In the coming months, he said that BNT's

intent is to link its parks with products.

One example he gave was a wildlife drive that would incorporate different habitats on the tour that give way to a ridge with one of the most dramatic viewscapes found at Hole in the Wall. He reminded the audience that we have valuable assets like the lighthouse found on Abaco and San Salvador that we don't take advantage of.

Carey looked forward to training nature tour guides to become more skilled and who can help out in these areas.

"Abaconians love their environment and there is a natural affinity to protect their environment," Carey shared.

Meanwhile, Geoff Houston, BTC's CEO, looked at the way the company has undergone its transformation. He gave a breakdown of what Cable and Wireless is; what is happening in telecommunications around the world and how it relates to The Bahamas; the company's journey in the last year; and what they are looking to achieve going forward. Houston now realizes that there is an "almost insatiable demand for data communications in The Bahamas, so

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Dr. Keith Lewis • • • •

Headaches • Neck Stiffness • Foot Pain Low Back Pain or Stiffness • Painful Joints Pain Between the Shoulders • Loss of Sleep Arm/Hand Numbness • Leg Pain/Numbness

Will be in office from: Monday October 22nd thru Monday October 29th Also Dr. Lewis will be at: Student Career Day, Wed Oct 24th Government Clinic Health Fair, Sat Oct 27th On Radio Abaco, Tues Oct 23rd 9-10am

Auskell Medical Center

242-367-0020

THE HOLIDAYS ARE ALMOST HERE!!

T

nly

re o

ea her

4

s sue n Is a i n e co for Aba eft be days L i o H l The DEADLINE FOR AD PLACEMENT FOR: November 1st issue is October 25th November 15th issue is November 8th

Don’t Forget to Advertise your: Restaurant Specials Political & Business Thank You ads Christmas & New Year Events Store and Merchandise Open House School & Church Programs December 1st issue is November 22nd December 15th issue is December 6th

Telephone: 242-367-3200 Fax: 242-367-3266

Email: abaconiannews@gmail.com www.theabaconian.com

October 15, 2012

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Further Business ner for the Hope Town Harbour Lodge, was the final speaker. After spending nine years in South Andros, he expressed his pleasure in being on Abaco. As a member of the Bahamas Boutique Hotel Group, Hartman assured that boutique hotels are the strength of Abaco and The Bahamas.

With that said, he conceded that he has never sold a hotel room in his career.

"I sell experiences," he stated. "Marketing is an every-day process, and the key to success is finding a different approach.

There are thousands of other smaller hotels - what makes you different?"

Local businesses support Lee Denim Day for cancer awareness

A sketch of the proposed wildlife trail and visitors center as outlined by BNT Executive Director, Eric Carey, during the Abaco Business Outlook. He expanded on the entrepreneurial opportunities involving small scale eco-tourism.

ABO

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hear an innovative idea as Llewellyn Cartwright, a senior associate of Callendars & Co., approached the podium. Cartwright introduced the idea of an International Aircraft Registry, which he said could revive and diversify our economy. He said that an aircraft registry will broaden services offered and increase employment in the

aviation industry. One such company that is benefiting from a registry is Bermuda.

Nevertheless, there are a few pertinent steps that will pave the way for this to happen including becoming a signatory to the Cape Town Convention. Cartwright said with those things in place The Bahamas is in a good position to become the top jurisdiction for ancillary service, and a true aviation destination.

Michael Hartman, managing part-

By Canishka Alexander Businesses everywhere have joined the fight against breast cancer and many are finding innovative ways to bring more awareness to a disease that has claimed the lives of many around the world.

During the month of October, which is designated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, local businesses held month-long promotions or participated in Lee Denim Day or similar events. At John Bull, customers received a free Pandora Pink leather bracelet with the breast cancer ribbon with the purchase of $85 worth of Pandora Jewelry. The promotion runs from October 1 through 31 while supplies last.

The Abaco Cancer Society organized two events – the Stride for Life Walk/Run event, which was held on October 6, and the upcoming Kayak Challenge – Up A Creek with a Paddle 2012 – on November 3.

According to Gennie Dean, chairperson for the Cancer Society’s Stride for Life Walk Committee, more than 30 businesses supported the Stride for Life Walk.

They included: Bahamia; Shoe Village; G R Sweeting; Commonwealth Bank; CIBC First Caribbean; Scotiabank Ltd.; Royal

Bank of Canada; Bank of The Bahamas; Aquapure; Nautilus; Rubins; John Bull; Thompson Trading Co.; Milo B. Butler & Sons Ltd.; Lowes Wholesale; Starbucks; Colina Insurance; J.S. Johnson & Company Ltd.; Atlantic Medical Insurance Ltd.; Doctors Hospital; Colombian Emeralds; Kentucky Fried Chicken; Superclub Breezes; Comfort Suites; Hard Rock Café; Montagu Gardens; Dolphin Encounters; Sky Bahamas; Bahamasair; Bahamas Fast Ferries; and Compass Point.

The management of Island Bakery sold Pink Ribbon cupcakes in remembrance of their deceased sister Brendalee Cornish, and asked for the community’s support in helping them to reach their 2012 goal. The goal, according to Bertlyn Cornish-Linden, was to make a donation to the Abaco Cancer Society to aid them in raising awareness and assisting cancer patients on the island. The cupcakes were available in chocolate and buttercream and vanilla and buttercream flavours.

Chelsea’s Choice complemented their water bottles with pink caps in recognition of the worthy cause, and over at BAF Financial, Lee Denim Day was supported by its staff members.

Abaco Denim Coordinator Nia Cooper, who is a four-year cancer survivor, said the event has been a part of their organization for 14 years on Nassau and for the past five years on Abaco. She said her co-workers have been affected by the disease as well as others she knows in the community, so the movement holds special significance for them.

“As an employee of BAF and a survivor of breast cancer, I use this opportunity to inform other women, that there is hope and not to give up their fight,” Cooper said. “I believe early detection saves lives; this isn't to say early detection solves everything, for it doesn't, however it increases the options available and improves your chance for survival.”

“As a Bahamian woman it is important that we take note of what's happing in our society as it relates to cancer. I believe when you do nothing you feel overwhelmed and powerless. But when you get involved, you feel a sense of hope and accomplishment that comes from knowing you are working to make things better.

During the month of October, millions of people around the world will participate in this cause.”

Cooper said that T-shirts for children and adults along with jewelry, pink wrist bands, squeeze bottles and car magnets can be purchased from BAF’s local office because proceeds will be donated to the Abaco Cancer Society. Additionally, she asked that companies and schools in the community allow their employees and students to join them in wearing their T-Shirts and denim on each Friday in October in exPlease see

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change for a donation. Matching corporate sponsorship is also encouraged.

“Each Friday in October won’t be the ordinary casual Friday; the shirts worn on this day will not only be worn for comfort, but it will make a powerful statement for an important cause,” Cooper replied. “Fridays will have significant meaning to the employees and students elected to join millions of others across the world by participating in the fight against breast cancer.”

Cooper thanked companies, organizations and schools for their enthusiastic support every year for their participation and donations that make the fundraiser a success. For more information on how you can help, call 367-5601-3 or e-mail ncooper@mybafsolutions.com or tpinder@mybafsolutions.com.

Nationwide – donations support the National Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative Fund, the Bahamas Cancer Society and the Sister, Sister Cancer Support Group.

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“My endeavour was to try to be as good as I could to everything that I came across. Whatever I could do that would help my country move effectively and my community I would try to learn and be my best at it.”

After enrolling at Walkershore County School it gave Mills the chance to hit the books combined with an opportunity to work in the field. He learned that fabrication is an art, and his professor instructed

him to go after something he would always want to wake up to and be willing to do.

“Fabrication comes under welding, and I wanted to fabricate steel simply because there’s a challenge, and I like seeing the beauty in the steel once it is fabricated,” he marveled.

After learning to weld, troubleshoot and familiarize himself with the equipment, Mills was encouraged to take the test for the Union he was assigned to which was Union 8 Structured Steel. However, to his amazement, while working at Seacrest Closure he appeared to be more of a helper than a welder. After working for the company for seven years, he learned about thermoforming or reject molding to create plastic signs, bins, caps, and garbage bags.

“You have to take what you learned in the classroom and put it aside until it is needful on the job because sometimes the job can be totally different, but the education part is still worth it. It’s still what you need – you need education.”

His services include building, painting, garbage pickup, maintenance and restoration of dumpsters. He also builds barbecue grills and boat trailers. The grills can be bought with or without detachable wheels and a front handle for easy movement.

“I want to be able to reach one and teach one so that my next generation can be better than this generation. Only one way of doing that is to deal with what we have now and help the ones who are here now.

As a Bahamian, I speak for most of the steel men on Abaco and most of the guys coming back from school, college and uni-

versity. We don’t have the chance that we should have. Give me a chance, I’m a true Bahamian.”

Striping

From Page 15

his community.

“It’s really about giving back to our young people,” Curry said. “As you can see today we’re here with the Bahamas Striping Company with our very own Atario Mitchell, who decided he wanted to give back to our community. He’s donating his work here today, and I’m happy to be a part of it.”

Curry said the project was a demonstration of what the PLP has been talking about along with young men and women starting their own businesses and being able to give back and to build their communities.

“This is a very exciting time, and our young men are here supporting him,” Curry explained. “We’re going to have a basketball game afterwards, and I may end up on the basketball court because who knows I may still have one or two more moves left.”

With both men having benefitted from time played on the very same basketball court during their high school days, they realized the forthcoming benefits it will yield for youths in the community.

A scheduled cleanup of the adjoining park along with the restriping of the volleyball court was also expected to take place.

Abaco Neem Ltd. expands -Press ReleaseAbaco Neem is excited to have recently opened in two major chain stores in New Providence: Solomon’s Fresh Market (AML Foods) located in Lyford Cay and soon to open in the Harbour Bay shopping Plaza and in three Lowes Pharmacy locations, Harbour Bay, Soldier Road and South West Plaza.

We could not have done this without the support and recommendations of our local customers and distributors. We would like to thank every one of You for contributing to our growth. To all of our local customers, using our products in your households, stocking your medicine cabinets and protecting your pets and gardens; to fellow farmers using our agro-products in the field, to our special visitors taking home a home grown gift from the Bahamas, and many schools who have toured our farm and production facility, a special “thank you” to you all. And to all of our distributors food stores, gift shops, medical offices, pharmacies and pet stores, a special “thank you” for having the confidence in Abaco Neem to stock our products on your stores shelves.

Abaco Neem products can be found throughout Abaco and the Cays, New Providence, Grand Bahama, Exuma, Bimini, Eleuthera and online via our website www.abaconeem.com visit our site to find Please see

Neem

Page 22

Page 20

Section A

The Abaconian October 15, 2012

Further Business Entrepreneur Watch

Unique Nails and Art Designs by Shanna Petite

By Samantha Evans Shanna Petite has a unique artistic gift that she has transferred to her business as a nail technician. It was while in high school, she explained, that she discovered her gift of art. After high school she went away to study nail art and now draws pictures on some of her Unique Nails clients.

She has taken the business of nails to a new trendy level. She specializes in unique nail designs such as cheese cake French tips, stiletto nails, water marble nails, aquarium nails, 3-D nails, glitter nails, and glass nails along with regular nail work, manicures, and pedicures. The aquarium nails are made to order. These nails have water in them along with sparkles, nail tricks, and small fish.

An art design can also be added to the back drop of the nail. She can also draw wall art, murals, and design lamps and other home décor which she will be venturing into soon. In the coming months she will be introducing color fading acrylic nails, gel nails, and gel polish. She started her professional business a few months ago in Marsh Harbour and can be reached by calling 468-0585. She works Monday to

Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

days 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. She can be contacted by calling 475-8664.

Elegant Hair Express and Beauty Supplies

to Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sexy Trends can be contacted by calling 554-8869.

Trinity Sexy Trends

By Samantha Evans Elegant Hair Express and Beauty Supplies has been the dream of Edith Williams-Joseph for seven years. She has over six years of experience dealing with hair and enjoys helping people, especially when they are looking for the right quality of hair to match a special occasion. She specializes in lace wigs, short bumps, duby hair, old head wigs of all colors, 16” and 18” human hair, Premium Too, Premium Sweetie, 21 pieces, jerry curls, 28 pieces in the Janet Collection and the Bump, Premium Now line, synthetic hair, perms, oil sheens, gels, eye lashes, and mirrors.

She plans to have a little bit of everything in the shop so that her customers can have options. She will be adding blow dryers, buckets of perm, kinky hair line, braiding hair, and other hair items to her inventory just in time for the holidays.

She plans to become the hair stylers’ headquarters. She is located in Suite #1 of the Colina Building. She is open Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sun-

Linden’s Online Service

By Samantha Evans As Abaco continues to grow, more and more businesses are opening on the island. Another new business to open a few months ago is Sexy Trends. They specialize in ladies clothing, shoes, accessories, and bags. They sell casual and smart casual clothing. Clothing sizes range from small to 3X and shoe size range in size from 5 to 11.

Sexy Trends also sells trendy belts, natural soaps for acne and bumps, G&G Bleaching Cream, and body oils for ladies and men such as Fantasy, Envy Me, Bob Marley, Michelle Obama, Barak Obama, White Diamonds and many others.

Owner, Adeline Louissaint, stated that she owned a business on the island before that was doing very well but moved to Nassau for a year. Now that she is back on Abaco, she decided to open her store again. In the coming months she plans to expand to men clothing then footwear.

There is also a nail technician on staff.

She is located on Fire Road above Abaco Island Pharmacy. They are open Monday

By Samantha Evans Linden’s Online Services is now offering services to the Abacos that provide convenience and an affordable avenue to order goods from the United States. They specialize in ordering school books and nooks, shoes, cell phones and accessories, iPads, clothing, baby items including furniture, laptops and desktops, game consoles and hand held games, kindle fire, and many others.

Now that the holidays are approaching, this is a good time to order those Christmas decorations, gifts, and outfits.

The motto at Linden’s Online Services is “You Want It, We’ll Bring It.” Crystal Linden is the owner and is no stranger to online businesses as she has done this business before and it did well but she put it aside to embark on another business.

Now that she has restarted her business in September, she wants the Abaco public to know that she now guarantees faster arrival times. She can be reached by calling 699-2520 or 458-2345.

The Moorings and The Conch Inn Hotel and Marina Compliments of

Printed by Tides & Currents for Windows TM by Nobeltec Corporation (503) 579-1414 - www.tides.com

Tide - North Bar Channel November 2012 Cruise the Abaco Sound in one of our new power boats 34 ft. mono-hull or 37 or 45 ft. Catamaran

The Conch Inn Marina • Full service docks with power • Cable TV connections • Texaco fuel station

The Moorings Yacht Charters

• The Best Sailing Vacations In The World!

• Prestige Class crewed yacht charter • Sailing Sloops and cats 35 ft. - 47 ft.

• Power catamarans 37 ft.

The Conch Inn Resort

• Hotel rooms on the harbour front • Fresh water pool • Curly Tails waterfront restaurant and bar • Dive Abaco - a complete dive facility

The Conch Inn Resort and Marina PO Box AB20469, Marsh Harbour, Abaco Ph 242-367-4000 • Fax 367-4004 Email: themoorings@batelnet.bs www.themoorings.com

Come and experience the beauty of the Bahamas. We are waiting for you.

October 15, 2012

The Abaconian

Section A

Page 21

Central Abaco Meeting

From Page 5

“All these people will soon be gone, and us Abaconians will be left to fend for ourselves.”

When pressed about victimization, the political panelists both agreed that any acts, if they were occurring, are wrong.

The Hon. Laing expressed that whether victimization is occurring on a wide scale or not, there is still the fear of victimization that is just as real to some people.

The Hon. Dorsett remarked that victimization has occurred during every government, but it takes place outside of those who make policies.

Issues involving gambling, the upcoming projects in relation to Urban Renewal and infrastructure improvements and the end of the 52 week government employment program were discussed along political talking points almost exclusively with some input from the Chamber of Commerce, Local Government and the Christian Council.

The question and answer session was

opened three quarters of the way through the televised program. Accusations were put towards both the political panelists regarding victimization under both parties. Phillipa Curry, step-mother of PLP candidate Renardo Curry, approached the mike and accused the previous PLP government, during 2002-2007, of unfairly firing her husband which led to his early death. As her story continued she drew the ire of some in the room, in particular Ms. Curry’s other step-son who approached her at the mike.

The room hit a boiling point when Ms. Curry continued to push that Renardo Curry was being disingenuous by supporting a party that she believed caused her husband, his father’s, failing health and unfortunate demise. Many in the audience got up and approached the center of the room where it appeared a fight would break out. The producers of the event had to immediately cut to a commercial break as police were called.

After an extended break the cameras returned to a now diminished audience as the panelists fielded the remaining

The panel gathered for the special town hall meeting representing experience from the government, politics, the business community and the church. Left to right: Min. Kenred Dorsett, Dave Ralph, Zhivargo Laing, George Cornish and Steven Knowles.

few questions. Former Central and South Abaco candidate, Roscoe Thompson III, asked Min. Dorsett what steps the government would be taking to ease the problems arising from illegal immigration.

Mr. Dorsett assured Mr. Thompson and Abaconians that the government is presently training more junior immigration officers and more would be stationed on Abaco specifically.

In closing, the panelists thanked the producers, the crowd and each other.

Min. Laing made a special effort to appeal to the crowd to respect each other despite differences of political opinion and expressed respect for Min. Dorsett and other political opponents.

42 pints of blood collected

By Mirella Santillo For the first time ever, the Rotary Club of Abaco organized a blood drive on Abaco. The Rotary-owned Blood Mobile arrived by ferry at Sandy Point in the morning of Friday, September 28 and was picked up by Firemen Timothy McDonald who drove it to Marsh Harbour. There it stayed parked in front of Maxwell’s Supermarket for two days, collecting blood from volunteers. Eighty seven people offered to give their blood, one pint per person, but Please see

Blood

Page 22

Above: the Rotary blood mobile parked outside of Maxwells Grocery Store in Marsh Harbour. Staffed by Nassau phlebotomists Danella Bain and Dorneka Sears, and local nurse Tishura Mills, the crew collected 42 pints of blood. One pint can save up to three lives.

Page 22

Section A

The Abaconian October 15, 2012

All Abaco

Road work commences in Central Abaco

Road repairs began Monday, October 8 as Bill Simmons Construction and Heavy Equipment Company Ltd. commenced works by filling potholes starting in the Murphy Town area. Project Manager Greg Simmons said that they will be using blacktop which will be provided

by Bahamas Hotmix as they pave the roads in Central Abaco.

Power Outage on Moore’s island -Press ReleaseThe Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) apologizes to its consumers on Moore’s Island, Abaco who are presently experiencing an island-wide power outage.

The outage, which began early Wednesday morning (October 10, 2012), was caused by major generation failure.

The failure of two generator unit coincides with the ongoing overhaul of a third unit that is presently inoperable. As a result, BEC is presently unable to generate electricity on the island.

BEC Abaco has sourced necessary parts to repair one of the units. The parts are expected to be on the island later on Wednesday. Once repairs are made the engine should return to service bringing relief to residents who would have been without supply for more than 12 hours.

The Corporation advises residents of Moore’s Island that despite anticipated repairs to one of the units, there may be periods of supply disruption due to the limited capacity of this particular engine. A trailer (stand by) unit is expected to be in Moore’s Island on Friday, October 12th, 2012 and should alleviate supply shortfalls until the other generator units are returned to service.

Once again, the Corporation apologizes to its Moore’s Island customers for any inconvenience caused during these outages and continues to assure them that BEC remains committed to providing an uninterrupted supply of electricity to that island.

Blood

From Page 21

altogether 42 pints were drawn.

While members of the Rotary Club of Abaco recruited people and had them fill their health history information, two phlebotomists from Doctor’s Hospital in Nassau, Danella Bain and Dorneka Sears, helped on Saturday by a local nurse, Ti-

shura Mills, worked from morning to afternoon. They reviewed information and collected blood from people, a procedure that lasted from a few minutes to close to half an hour, depending on the flow of the donor’s blood.

Blood from people older than 65, who were on medication for chronic disease, suffering from a temporary ailment or certain health conditions, could not be used.

The blood collected on Friday was immediately sent to Nassau by plane that same day and the same procedure was repeated on Saturday.

The blood will be kept in the blood bank at Doctor’s Hospital to be used as

needed. On many previous occasions blood reserves have run out. Having a supply on hand is critical should emergencies arise.

Dock Construction

Residential and Commercial Customized to suit your lifestyle

Boat Lifts

Sales and Service Quality boat lift dealer for 10 years

And Much More...

Offering unsurpassed attention to detail with almost two decades of hands on experience

Contact us today! www.lbtmarine.com bthompson@lbtmarine.com Cell: 242-357-6532 Ph/Fax: 242-367-2704

Sea Level Cottages

Area Code 242 unless listed otherwise

Island-wide Abaco Listings

Abaco Cottage + Abaco Vacation Planner +

114 hse 25 hse

Lee Pinder + Marina Albury Cottages

3 hse 366-2053 5 cottages 366-2075

Cherokee

Green Turtle Cay

242-357-6532

the location most convenient for you.

Due to our growth, we have expanded our neem leaf drying capacity in our production facility to meet the increased demand for neem leaves used in our Neem Leaf Capsules, Extract and First Aid Spray.

The importance of understanding the many uses of neem, its properties and benefits to helping to maintain a healthy lifestyle led us to commission Pamela Patterson, to write a book based on Nick’s over twenty years experience growing, harvesting and personally using our neem products. We are excited to announce the launch of our new book “Health Benefits of Neem from the Abaco Neem Farm” now available on Amazon.com and soon to be available in our store and our distributor outlets. Please visit Amazon.com and “like” our book.

Our message is always that prevention is the best medicine and Neem is your best first response product. It is also important to note that our farm is “certified organic” and that we produce pure neem oil second to none in the world. We are completely transparent and invite you to come into our production facility at the Marsh Harbour airport circle to see where and how our product is made. Neem helps to protect you against colds and flues, stress related issues and supports your immune system so don’t delay get NEEMAFIED to prepare for the change of season this winter!

Thank you for choosing and supporting Abaco Neem “To Help the Body Heal”

+ agents with multiple cottages and houses

Grand Cay

Brandon Thompson

From Page 19

Hotels and House Rental Agents

Rosie’s Place

“Honesty and Quality You Can Count On”

Neem

366-0576 367-3529

352-5458

Barefoot Homes 14 hse 577-4092 Bluff House Club 12 units 365-4247 Cocobay Cottages 6 cott 800-752-0166 Green Turtle Club 35 rm 365-4271 Island Properties + 34 hse 365-4047 New Plymouth Inn 9 rm 365-4161 Ocean Blue Properties + 34 365-4636 Other Shore Club 365-4226 Roberts Cottages 3 cott 365-4105

Guana Cay

Dive Guana + Dolphin Bch Resort Guana Sunset Beach Ocean Frontier Ward’s Landing Ruth Sands +

11 hse 365-5178 4 rm 10 cott. 365-5137 13 units 365-5133 6 cott 519-389-4846 4 units 904-982-2762 9 hse 365-5140

Hope Town

Abaco Inn 22 rm 366-0133 Crystal Villas 5 villas 321-452-0164 Elbow Cay Prop + 53 hse 366-0035 Hope T Harb Lodge 25 rm 366 0095 Hope T Hideaways + 63 hse 366-0224 Hope Town Inn 6 rm 4 Villas 366-0003 Hope T Villas + 3 hse 366-0266 Lighthouse Rentals 4 cott 366-0154 Sea Gull Cottages + 4 hse 366-0266 Sea Spray Resort 6 villas 366-0065 Tanny Key + 43 hse 366-0053 Turtle Hill 4 villas 366-0557

Lubbers Quarters

4 hse

Man-O-War

366-3121

Island Home Rentals + Schooner’s Landing Waterway Rentals +

2 hse 365-6048 5 condos 365-6072 14 hse 365-6143

Abaco Beach Resort Abaco Real Estate + Abaco Towns Ambassador Inn Bustick Bight Resort Conch Inn Living Easy + Island Breezes Motel Lofty Fig Villas

Pelican Beach Villas Regattas HG Christie +

82 rms 6 hse 16 apts 6 rms 8 rms 9 rms 16 hse 8 rms 6 eff 6 cott 32 apts 11 hse

Marsh Harbour area

Sandy Point

367-2158 367-2719 367-0148 367-2022 367-3980 367-4000 367-2202 367-3776 367-2681 367-3600 577-6764 367-4151

Oeisha’s Resort 366-4139 Pete & Gay’s Resort 14 rm 366-4119 Rickmon’s Bonefishing 10 rm 800-628-1447 Spanish Cay Resort

Spanish Cay

18 rm 6 hse 365-0083

Treasure Cay

Bahama Beach Club 88 units 365-8500 Brigantine Bay Villas 5 units 877-786-8455 Treasure Cay Resort + 95 rms 365-8801 Mark’s Bungalows 4 units 365-8506 Abaco Estate Services + 365-8752 Island Dreams Rental + 357-6576

Turtle Rock

Villas at Palmetto Beach

3 villas 262-820-1900

Tangelo Hotel

14 rm 1 villa 365-2222

Wood Cay

Web Sites with Abaco Information

http://www.abaconian.com http://www.abacos.com http://www.abacoinet.com http://www.oii.net http.//www.abacoinfo.com http://www.bahamas.com http.//www.abacocottage.com Rev. March 2012

October 15, 2012 Emergency Services

Police - Marsh Harbour 367-2560 • 911 B. Electricity Corp 367-2727, 367-2846, 367-4667 Water & Sewerage 475-1499, 475-5518 The following services are provided by volunteers Fire - Marsh Harbour 367-2000 Fire -Hope Town VHF Ch 16 • Fire - Green Turtle Cay 365-4133 Fire - Man-O-War 365-4019 Treasure Cay Fire & Rescue 365-9111 BASRA Bah Air Sea Rescue Assoc - all areas Marine VHF 16 Hope Town 366-0500 Marsh Harbour 367-3752 Guana Cay 365-5178 Treasure Cay 365-8749

Medical Services

Abaco Family Medicine Marsh Harbour.......................367-2295 Auskell Advanced Medical Clinic.................................367-0020 Integrated Medical Center...........................................367-1304 Emergency................................................458-1234 Marsh Harbour Medical Centre....................................367-0049 Government Clinic Marsh Harbour.............................367-2510 Corbett Clinic Treasure Cay ..........................................365-8288 Government Clinic Cooper‘s Town...............................365-0300 Government Clinic Green Turtle Cay............................365-4028 Government Clinic Hope Town ....................................366-0108 Government Clinic Sandy Point...................................366-4010 Government Clinic Fox Town .......................................365-2172 Tourism’s People-to-People program

Be matched with a local person or family with a similar interest such as Bird watching, Attending church, Foreign language, School class visit, Environmental interest. Marine, Native plants, History, Humane Society, etc. This is not a dating service or an offer for a free meal or lodging but an opportunity to meet someone locally with similar interests. Call Tourism’s Doranell Swain at 367-3067 for more information. Email: dswain@bahamas.com

Airlines Serving Abaco

Abaco Air - Nassau, N Eleuthera, Moores Is............................367-2266 Air Gate Aviation - Daytona/New Smyrna............................367-3636 American Eagle - Miami ......................................................367-2231 Bahamasair - Nassau,W. Palm B, Ft Laud .............................367-2095 Continental Connection - Miami Ft. Laud and W Palm Beach...............................................367-3415 Craig Air Center - North Florida............................................367-3522 IBC Airways - Ft.Lauderdale, W Palm Beach..........................367-1336 Locair - Fort Lauderdale..............................................1-800-205-0730 Regional - Freeport...............................................................367-0446 Sky Bahamas - Nassau/Ft. Lauderdale..................................367-0996 Twin Air Calypso - Fort Lauderdale ......................................367-0140 Western Air - Nassau ............................................................367-3722 Yellow Air Taxi - Ft Lauderdale..............................................367-0032 Local air charters serving Bahamas & S.Florida Abaco Air...............................................................................367-2266 Cherokee Air Charters .........................................................367-3450

Dive Shops

Abaco Dive Adventures, Marsh Harbour......................367-2963 Above & Below, Marsh Harbour..................................367-0350 Dive Abaco 1978, Marsh Harbour............................... 367-2787 Dive Time, Man-O-War................................................365-6235 Froggies, Hope Town.................................................. 366-0431 Treasure Divers, Treasure Cay.......................................365-8571 Brendal’s Dive, Green T. Cay........................................ 365-4411 Dive Guana................................................................. 365-5178 Man-O-War Dive Shop .................................................365-6013

• Between Marsh Harbour Ferry and: Clinic, downtown, Ab Beach Hotel .................................................. $ 10 Nat. Ins. Bldg, Murphy Town, Gr. Cistern ...........................................$10 Wait time $0.40 per minute, Hourly rate $40 per hour Children under three - free • Caged pets - as people Luggage $0.75 each over two, large bags $1 ea.

• Treasure Cay Airport to: Effective Dec 08 Green Turtle Cay ferry dock................................................................$10 Madeira Park.....................................................................................$20 Sand Banks .......................................................................................$25 Treasure Cay Resort...........................................................................$30 Leisure Lee ........................................................................................$45 Black Wood .......................................................................................$20 Fire Road & Cooper’s Town ................................................................$40 Cedar Harbour ..................................................................................$60 Wood Cay ..........................................................................................$70 Mount Hope..................................................................................... $80 Fox Town ...........................................................................................$85 Crown Haven ....................................................................................$90 Marsh Harbour airport ......................................................................$80 Green Turtle Ferry to Marsh H Airport ...............................................$80 Treasure Cay Hotel to Marsh Harbour.................................................$85 Treasure Cay Hotel to Green Turtle Ferry............................................$25 Treasure Cay Hotel to Blue Hole.........................................................$30

Section A

Page 23

Visitors’ Guide Restaurants • Services • Transportation w w w. t he a b a c o n ian .c o m

Ferry Schedules • Departure times shown • Daily service unless noted Marsh Harbour to Hope Town or Man-O-War - 20 minutes, Guana Cay - 30 minutes

Everyone reads The Abaconian

Albury’s Ferry Service • Ph 367-3147 or 367-0290 • VHF Ch. 16 • Hope Town & Man-O-War from Crossing Bch Marsh Harbour>Hope Town 7:15am 9:00am 10:30am 12:15pm 2:00pm 4:00pm 5:45pm

Return: 8:00 am 9:45am 11:30am 1:30pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:30pm Marsh Harbour>Man-O-War 10:30am 12:15pm 2:30pm* 4:00pm 5:45pm * Not on

Return: 8:00am 11:30am 1:30pm 3:15pm* 5:00pm Sundays Marsh H.>Guana Cay/Scotland cay From Conch Inn or holidays

(6:45am - Union Jack Dock) 10:30am 1:30pm 3:30pm 5:45pm

Return: 8 am 11:30am 2:30pm 4:45pm 6:30pm

All phones use area code 242 unless noted

Fare • Adult prepaid one way $17 / open return $27, • Kids 6-11 half, Under 6 free (Phone after hours 359-6861) Note: During the month of August through December there are some adjustments made to the schedule. You are advised to contact the office for the changes.

Green Turtle Ferry • Phone 365-4166, 4128 • VHF Ch 16 • Ten minute ride T Cay Airport>Green T Cay 8:30am 10:30am 11:30am 1:30pm 2:30pm 3:30pm 4:30pm* 5:00pm

Return: 8am 9am 11am 12:15pm 1:30pm 3:00pm 4:30pm* * * Note: 4:30 pm trip to GTC not on Sundays

** Note: 4:30 pm trip will be made from New Plymouth only

New Plymouth :One way adult $12 (Children $7) • Round trip $17 (Children $10) • Extra to some G T Cay docks

Abaco Adventures • Ph 365-8749 or 375-8123 VHF Ch 16 Charters Available Treasure Cay to Guana Cay Sunday departs 11:00am & returns 3:30 p.m. $40 Round Trip T Cay to Man-O-War/ Hope Town - Saturday departs 9:30 am, $45 Round Trip Pinder’s Ferry Service Between Abaco & Grand Bahama Crown Haven, Abaco to McLean’s Town, Grand Bah. Daily 7:00 am & 2:30 pm McLean’s Town to Crown Haven - return Daily 8:30 am & 4:30 pm

Fare $45 OW / $90 RT • Children half fare • Call Abaco 365-2356 for information

Bus between Freeport and McLean’s Town • Rental automobiles at both terminals.

Bahamas Ferries Summer Schedule only (April to Dec) Sandy Point & Nassau Every Friday & Sunday, except holidays, under 4 hours. Call 225-3376 or 366-4119 Call for rates.

The Great Abaco Express Eco & Historical bus tours • Call 367-2165 or 559-9160

Attractions

Albert Lowe Museum.................................Green Turtle Cay Capt Roland Roberts House, reef exhibits...Green Turtle Cay Memorial Sculpture Garden..................... Green Turtle Cay Wyannie Malone Historical Museum..................Hope Town Elbow Cay Light Station.....................................Hope Town Swim Mermaid Reef off Marsh Harbour......... Pelican Shore Drive to & swim in Blue Hole............Treasure Cay farm road Art studio & working foundry....................... Little Harbour Working boatyards......................................Man-O-War cay

Pocket Beaches

• Crossing Beach in Marsh Harbour • Witches Point - 3 miles S. of Marsh Harbour • Little Harbour - 20 miles S. of Marsh Harbour • Cherokee - 23 miles S of Marsh Harbour Miles of beach (most exposed to ocean) • Treasure Cay • Green Turtle Cay • Guana Cay • Elbow Cay • Man-O-War Cay • Casuarina Point • Bahama Palm Shore • Sandy Point & more

Items of interest

• Man-O-War boat yards • Blackwood blue hole & sisal mill • Cedar Harbour plantation ruins - need guide • Hole-in- Wall lighthouse - last mile very rough road • Abaco wild horses by appointment 367-4805 • Bird watching - ask tourism 367-3067

Taxi Cab Fares one or two passengers

Extra $3 for each passengers above two • Marsh Harbour Airport to: Effective Dec 08 Clinic, Downtown, Stop Light, .........................................................$10 Ab Bch Resort, Eastern Shore close, Ferry .........................................$15 Spring City.........................................................................................$15 Dundas Town, Nat Ins bldg, C Abaco Primary Sch ..............................$15 Murphy Town & Great. Cistern ..........................................................$20 Snake Cay .........................................................................................$35 Casuarina Point.................................................................................$60 Cherokee, Winding Bay, Little Harbour..............................................$80 Bahama Palm Shore..........................................................................$90 Crossing Rocks.................................................................................$105 Sandy Point ....................................................................................$150 Leisure Lee ........................................................................................$50 Treasure Cay Airport, G Turtle ferry....................................................$80 Treasure Cay Resort...........................................................................$85 Fox Town .........................................................................................$165

The Abaconian

Charter Boats Lucky Strike - Hope Town......................366-0101 Sea Gull - Hope Town............................366-0266 A Salt Weapon - Hope Town..................366-0245 Down Deep............................................366-3143 Local Boy...............................................366-0528 Back Breaker.........................................365-5140

Abaco Marinas - Slips - Fuel - Phone

Green Turtle Cay Bluff House ....................... 45..........F..........365-4200 Green Turtle Club ............... 32..........F..........365-4271 Black Sound Marina........... 15......................365-4531 Other Shore Club................ 12..........F..........365-4195 Abaco Yacht Service........... 10..........F..........365-4033 Treasure Cay Treasure Cay Marina......... 150..........F..........365-8250 Man-O-War Man-O-War Marina ........... 26..........F..........365-6008 Marsh Harbour Boat Harbour Marina....... 183..........F..........367-2158 Conch Inn........................... 75..........F ..........367-4000 Harbour View Marina......... 36..........F ..........367-2182 Mangoes Marina................ 29......................367-4255 Marsh Harbour Marina....... 52..........F.......... 367 2700 Hope Town Hope Town Marina............. 16......................366-0003 Hope Town Hideaways.................................366-0224 Lighthouse Marina............... 6..........F..........366-0154 Sea Spray........................... 60..........F..........366-0065 Spanish Cay Spanish Cay Marina............ 75..........F..........365-0083 Guana Cay Bakers Bay Marina........... 158..........F..........365-5802 Guana Hide-aways............. 37......................577-0003 Orchid Bay.......................... 64 .........F..........365-5175

Boats can clear Customs at Green Turtle Cay, Treasure Cay or Marsh Harbour

Bring errors & revisions to our attention Revised March 9 12

Bonefish Guides Casaurina Point Junior Albury................ 366-3058 Cherokee Noel Lowe.................... 366-2107 Marty Sawyer............... 366-2115 Randy Sawyer............. 366-2284 Will Sawyer.................. 366-2177 Crossing Rocks Tony Russell................ 366-3259 Green Turtle Cay Rick Sawyer................. 365-4261 Ronnie Sawyer............ 365-4070 Hope Town Maitland Lowe............. 366-0234 Tom Albury................... 366-3141 Man-O-War David Albury................ 365-6502

Tours & Excursions Abaco Eco Tours & Kayak rental........................475-9616 Abaco Island Tours • Marsh Harbour.................367-2936 Abaco Neem • Marsh Harbour..........................367-4117 Abaco’s Nature Adventure................................577-0004 Above & Below • Marsh Harbour......................367-0350 Adventure on Prozac - T Cay.............................365-8749 Brendals Dive • Green Turtle Cay.......................365-4411 C & C Charters - Treasure Cay............................365-8506 Dive Abaco 1978, Marsh Harbour.....................367-2787 Excursion boat, Froggies • Hope Town..............366-0024

Bikes & Scooters • Boats Cars & Cart Rentals Marsh Harbour A & P Car Rentals ..............................................367-2655 Abaco Dorado Boat Rentals...............................367-1035 B & B Boat Rentals............................................367-7368 Bargain Car Rentals...........................................367-0500 Blue Wave Boat Rentals ....................................367-3910 Concept Boat Rentals........................................367-5570 Cruise Abaco......................................................577-0148 Quality Star Car Rentals (Texaco).......................367-2979 Rainbow Boat Rentals.......................................367-4602 Rental Wheels Scooters, Bikes, Cars...................367-4643 Rich’s Boat Rentals ..........................................367-2742 Sea Horse Boat Rentals .....................................367-2513 Sea Star Car Rentals .........................................367-4887 The Moorings Boat Rentals...............................367-4000 Green Turtle Cay Brendals Dive Bikes & Kayak rental...................365-4411 C & D Cart Rental ..............................................365-4084 Cruising Cart Rentals.........................................365-4065 D & P Cart Rental ..............................................365-4655 Donnie’s Boat Rentals........................................365-4119 Kool Karts.........................................................365-4176 Reef Boat Rentals .............................................365-4145 Sea Side Carts & Bikes.......................................365-4147 T & A Cart Rentals.............................................375-8055 Guana Cay Donna Sands Cart Rentals ................................365-5195 Dive Guana Boats & Bikes..................................365-5178 Orchid Bay Cart rentals......................................354-5175 Lubbers Quarters Cruise Abaco..............................................321-220-8796 Man-O-War Conch Pearl Boat Rentals..................................365-6502 Ria-Mar Golf Cart Rentals..................................365-6024 Waterways Boat Rental .................357-6540 & 365-6143 Hope Town Cat’s Paw Boat Rentals......................................366-0380 Elbow Cay Cart..................................................366-0530 Hope Town Cart Rentals ...................................366-0064 Island Cart Rentals ...........................................366-0448 Island Marine Boat Rentals ..............................366-0282 J R’s Cart Rental.................................................366-0361 Sea Horse Boat Rentals.....................................366-0023 T & N Cart Rentals.............................................366-0069 Treasure Cay Adventure on Prozac - Kayak.............................365-8749 Blue Marlin Rentals...........................................365-8687 Cash’s Carts.......................................................365-8771 Cornish Car Rentals...........................................365-8623 JIC Boat Rentals ................................................365-8582 Triple J Car Rentals............................................365-8761 Abaco Adventures - Kayaks ..............................365-8749

Marsh Harbour Jody Albury................375-8068 Sidney Albury.............477-5996 Richard Albury...........367-0367 Terrance Davis...........375-8550 Buddy Pinder.............366-2163 Justin Sands..............367-3526 Danny Sawyer...........367-3577 Jay Sawyer................367-3941 North Abaco O’Donald McIntosh....477-5037 Alexander Rolle.........365-0120 Edward Rolle.............365-0024 Herbert Thurston.......365-2405 Sandy Point Valantino Adderley.....366-4323 Anthony Bain.............366-4107 Derek Gaitor..............366-4249 Nicholas Roberts.......366-4486 Treasure Cay Capt. Joe Pritchard....559-9117

Restaurant Guide Prices $ Low, $$ Moderate, $$$ Upper (Based on dinner entree range) + Picnic tables & restroom only ‡ Provides ride from town Marsh Harbour Abaco Pizza..................................$................... 367-4488 Anglers....................................$$$................... 367-2158 Blue Marlin..................................$................... 367-2002 Curly Tails ................................$$$................... 367-4444 Gino’s...........................................$................... 367-7272 Golden Grouper .........................$................... 367-2301 Island Family Rest........................$................... 367-3778 Java Coffee House........................$................... 367-5523 Jamie’s Place................................$................... 367-2880 Jib Room ...................................$$................... 367-2700 Kentucky Fried Chicken................$................... 367-2615 Mangoes..................................$$$................... 367-2366 Pop’s Place + ...............................$................... 367-3796 Snack Shack +.............................$................... 367-4005 Snappas.....................................$$................... 367-2278 Wallys .....................................$$$................... 367-2074 Hope Town Abaco Inn ...............................$$$................... 366-0133 Cap’n Jacks.................................$$................... 366-0247 Harbour’s Edge.......................... $$................... 366-0087 H T Coffee House (B & L)...............$.................. .366-0760 H T Harbour Lodge ...................$$$................... 366-0095 Munchies.....................................$................... 366-0423 OnDa Beach...............................$$................... 366-0558 Sea Spray ‡................................$$................... 366-0065 Sugar Shack +.............................$................... 366-0788 Little Harbour Pete’s Pub...................................$$................... 366-3503 Lubber’s Quarter Cracker P’s..................................$$................... 366-3139 Man-O-War Bradley’s on the Harbour..............$................... 365-6380 Dock’n Dine..................................$................... 365-6139 Island Treats Snack Bar.................$................... 365-6501 Guana Cay Baker’s Bay - Market Place.......$$$................... 612-1021 Grabbers....................................$$................... 365-5133 Nippers .....................................$$ .................. 365-5143 Orchid Bay................................$$$................... 365-5175 Treasure Cay Coco Beach Bar & Grill..................$................... 365-8470 Florence’s Cafe..............................$.................. .365-8354 Spinnaker Restaurant ..............$$$................... 365-8469 Touch of Class .........................$$$................... 365-8195 Treasure Sands Club.................$$$.................. .365-9385 Green Turtle Cay Bluff House..............................$$$................... 365-4200 Jolly Roger Bistro.......................$$................... 365-4200 Green Turtle Club .....................$$$................... 365-4271 Harvey’s Island Grill....................$$................... 365-4389 McIntosh’s Restaurant ...............$$................... 365-4625 Miss Emily’s Restaurant..............$$................... 365-4181 New Plymouth Inn.....................$$................... 365-4161 Pineapple Restaurant Bar & Grill.$$.................. 365-4039 Plymouth Rock Cafe...................$$................... 365-4234 Shorties Take-a-way...................$$..................365-4342 Sundowners...............................$$................... 365-4060 Sandy Point Nancy’s......................................$$................... 366-4120

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Section A

The Abaconian October 15, 2012

HOME INSURANCE

Your Peace Of Mind Is Important To Us! Insurance Management makes home protection a priority with the most dependable protection in The Bahamas. It's how they've earned their good reputation.

Coverage you can rely on.

INSURANCE MANAGEMENT

(BAHAMAS) LIMITED. INSURANCE BROKERS & AGENTS

Nassau

Freeport

Abaco

Eleuthera

Exuma

Rosetta Street P.O.Box SS-6283 Tel: (242) 394-5555 Fax: (242) 323-6520

1, Pioneer’s Way P.O.Box F-42541 Tel: (242) 350-3500 Fax: (242) 350-3510

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Queen’s Highway P.O.Box EL-25190 Tel: (242) 332-2862 Fax: (242) 332-2863

Queen’s Highway P.O.Box SS-6283 Tel: (242) 336-2304 Fax: (242) 336-2305

email: info@imbabaco.com