12022016 weekend

The Tribune

Friday, December 2, 2016

entertainment books weddings film fashion music food animals

Weekend

Ranard Henfield Interview Pages 4&5

Feat of clay Junkanoo ceramics fire imagination

Art, page 13

02 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

life through a lens PHOTOS/SHAWN HANNA

Have you taken a selection of photographs that might make a Life through a lens feature page? If so please submit it to weekend@ tribunemedia.net for consideration

Lights and love

T

he Cancer Society of the Bahamas annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony has become a welcome tradition at this time of year as people honour and remember their loved ones who have fallen prey to the disease.

The 26th annual Love Lights A Tree ceremony took place at the Mall at Marathon last Friday with music, songs and prayers.

Donations go to the Cancer Caring Centre on Collins Avenue, a “home away from home” for cancer patients from New Providence and the Family Islands.

Mya Turnquest, a part

of the Cancer Society of the Bahamas ‘Freedom’s Kids’ support group, lit the tree while Ordain Moss, Sweet Fragrance Praise Team, the Urban Renewal Youth Marching Band and the Kingsway Academy School ‘chimers’ performed. Pastor Denczil Rolle, of Life Worship Center, delivered a Christmas message and the congragation sang ‘Joy to the World’.

Omega Miller, the Love Lights A Tree chairperson, says that fundraising is going well. She encouraged people to donate by coming to the Centre to drop off donations or by making a direct deposit to the Cancer Society of the Bahamas account number 52200112.

The Tribune | Weekend | 03

Friday, December 2, 2016

Inside Weekend Interview 4 - 5 Ranard Henfield, the man behind the Black Friday March, talks about his motivations to make a difference in his country Food 7 Why the tasty pizzas at Anthony’s remind Bahamians of Swanks

Charity 8-9 The traditional Cole’s of Nassau show raises funds for the Bahamas Humane Society

Entertainment 10-11 Christmas on Sapodilla Street returns with laughs; Yodephy’s student showcase adds festive sparkle

Art 12-13 Straw craft and Junkanoo ceramics add flair to the local scene

Weddings 14-15 Forever, together - Peadra and Gerron Dean from takeoff to landing up married

Fashion 16 Hits, splits and fails on the red carpet at the American Music Awards Music 17 Best of the action from the aliv launch concert Books 19 Curiosity and da Cat - an Italian photographer’s plan to capture his adopted home Film 20-21 Warren Beatty returns with ‘Rules Don’t Apply’; BIFF tribute award for Dylan McDermott

Literary Lives 23-25 Fiammetta Rocco and the cure for malaria Forgotten Facts 25 Victoria Hall, 117 years on Gardening 28 Jack Hardy welcomes the winter solstice and suggests plants for Christmas

My perfect Bahamian weekend Shaton Music Singer

it a little flavour by adding a shot of blackberry brandy and it’s the best thing since salami.

Q: Beach or sofa?

Sofa, with my glass of wine and a thigh snack in mind. I like the beach but, bruh, when those sandflies from hell come out, that’s it I’m done! So to avoid a catastrophe give me comfort with A/C if BPL allows it.

“When those sandflies from hell come out, I’m done!”

Q: Saturday breakfast or Sunday lunch?

Uhhmmm ... Saturday breakfast because I believe in having a good, balanced breakfast to get the day started. Things like stew chicken, sheep tongue souse, cheesy yellow grits and a nice egg white veggie omelette!

The best part about Saturday breakfast is first thing in the morning get you a piece of leg to get you started, a solid thigh snack if catch my drift.

Q: Wine, Kalik, rum or cocktail?

Anyone that knows me know I looooove a cold Kalik Gold because I’m a heavy drinker but a glass of wine is preferred. It’s an acquired taste but, bruh, a good glass of wine feels so good going down and if drank at the right time can make it easier to get that thigh snack any time of day (lol).

A nice, blended red wine 19 Crimes, a good white wine Joel Gott Chardonnay, but you can give

Q: What could you not do without?

Music! It’s helped me through a lot of unexpected happenings that I just didn’t know how to handle but the right lyrics can do it for you. Aside from that food, alcohol, and my sofa ... and a thigh snack (I hope you guys get my thigh snack bid).

Q: Weekend away: where would you go?

The Big Apple ... I love New York.

The characters, the food, the art, the history - I’ll take it any day.

Things 2 Do this weekend Friday • Festival Noel Time: 7pm to 10pm Venue: Rand Nature Centre, East Settler’s Way, Freeport The 22nd year of Festival Noel in Grand Bahama. This year Bristol Wine and Spirits will be featuring over 40 wines from Australia, Italy, Chile, California, Washington State, Argentina, France and New Zealand. All funds raised go to the Bahamas National Trust for further development of national parks in the Bahamas.

• Fam Fest 2016 Time: 7pm (continues Saturday and Sunday) Venue: Arawak Cay Under the theme ‘Be Strong’ Fam Fest this year features international stars Deitrick Haddon, Anthony Brown, Briana Babineaux, Tiff Joy and Canton Jones. Also performing will be Anna Calixte, Monty G, Eman, Lyrically Blessed, Najie Dunn, Christian Massive, Shaback and Denzcil Rolle and friends. Free admission.

Saturday • Best of the Best Regatta

Time: 11am Venue: Montagu Beach The overall champion from the Bahama islands regattas will be decided on the final day of racing, as will the annual Star Sailors League, in which the world’s top sailors battle it out in Nassau Harbour.

• Temple Christian Winter Festival Time: noon to 6pm Venue: Temple Christian Academy, Collins Avenue A family fun day and steakout, including a 2-on-2 basketball tournament, dunk tank, mum and daughter fashion show and horse and carriage. Admission is free.

• Wine Experience Time: 1.30pm to 5.30pm Venue: National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, West and West Hill Streets Share in the holiday spirit with Wine Experience, an event presented by Commonwealth Brewery. Experience over 70 wines including new arrivals and old favourites, consult with international wine experts and enjoy the holiday specials at CB’s onsite wine shop.

Public $35, Wine Club members $30.

Sunday • Hero World Challenge

Time: 10.20am to 4pm Venue: Albany Eighteen of the world’s top golfers competing in the final round of Tiger Woods’ annual golf tournament, including the professional return of the former world no.1.

• Natural No Lye Time: 12 to 7pm Venue: Melia Nassau Beach Resort, Cable Beach Billed as a showcase of the best brands in hair, health and beauty for the modern woman of colour who wants natural hair, Natural No Lye makes its debut. Special limitededition products, offers, samples and an ‘unforgettable’ stage show.

Ticket locations are Lowe’s Wholesale - Soldier Road, Windermere Day Spa - Harbour Bay, Nicole’s Hair World East Street South, The Hair Republic - Shirley Street, Styles Unisex Salon - Soldier Road, and Happy Hair Boutique - Sear’s Hill.

• Kalico Bay - A Children’s Fall Fashion Affair Time: 2pm Venue: SuperClubs Breezes, Cable Beach Beginning with a Sip and Shop at 2pm and then the runway show at 3pm, the event also makes donations to two local children’s homes.

SEE PAGE 18

04 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

interview The man behind the ‘Black Friday March’ discovered the need for people to speak up for themselves at a young age. Cara Hunt finds a quiet, private and determined individual holding true to those values in encouraging communities to help themselves and their neighbours rather than wait for the authorities.

Ranard Eric Henfield

E

ven as a little boy, Ranard Eric Henfield has always wanted to be a voice for those who had none.

Growing up in a poor neighbourhood, he saw first hand how difficult life could be for those who had no one to advocate on their behalf.

“I grew up near the corner of East

Street and Wulff Road, and everything around me at that time was injustice.

Because we were poor we had no rights. I would see the landlord come to my neighbours Friday to demand the rent and if they couldn’t find the money, they would meet the padlock on their door on Saturday. The rent would be $75 a week, but they didn’t have it. And they didn’t have anyone to

be their voice and they couldn’t afford a lawyer.

“For me and my friends, the solution was not to become police or politicians.

We needed to speak up for ourselves and protect ourselves. For me law was the only option.”

After graduating from St Augustine’s College at 16, Ranard enrolled in the College of the Bahamas where

he completed his associate degree in criminal law and justice.

“When I finished COB, I applied for and was accepted into the University of London law school, but the tutition at the time was 20,000 pounds. There was no way my family could afford it.”

Instead he went to the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Trinidad, where the tuition was only $3,000.

The Tribune | Weekend | 05

Friday, December 2, 2016

Photo/Aaron Davis

After two years in the programme, Ranard received a scholarship to his first choice school - the University of London - offered to the top students at UWI. As he had in Trinidad and Nassau, he quickly found a job - this time with a financial board which paid 100 pounds a week. “It was a blessing,” he said.

“When I arrived, they were about to hold elections for the student union and as there were a lot of Bahamian and Caribbean students there, I ran for student union president and somehow won.” It was perhaps his first experience in community activism.

After he finished his law degree, Ranard transferred to the University of Northumbria to complete Bar school.

“I chose that school, because they accepted far less students than the schools in London and I figured if they accepted less students it must be harder. When I was accepted I took a chance and moved there.”

He also need to find another job and took one at a dump in central England.

“The job was at the weekend and it was a three-hour train ride from the north of England to central England.

I would take my books and study on the train. There were three of us and we would patrol the dump in 12-hour shifts, but it paid 100 pounds a night. I passed Bar school with a grade of very competent and it really was because I had a lot of quiet time on that job where there was nothing to do but study at the dump,” he remembers.

After returning home, he took a job with his uncle, Willie Moss, rather than with a larger firm even though it meant a smaller starting salary. His rationale was that he would be able to practice a wider selection of law at a smaller, more intimate firm.

“My parents also reminded me of why I wanted to go into law which basically meant that money should be my last motivating factor.”

After working with his uncle and, briefly, with another lawyer Lincoln Bethel, he branched off and started his own firm, Learned Friends Law chambers, in 2013.

However, it was an event in 2005 which shaped Ranard, now 37, as a community activist and leader and perhaps led to his disillusionment with politics and politicians.

“I was planning a major community event that would highlight Aids in the country - The Caribbean Aids Awareness Festival,” he explained. “I submitted my proposal to Dr Perry Gomez,

“It is about helping your neighbour. If you have two fish and you only can eat one, rather than it get freezer burn, why not give it your neighbour who you know has no fish.”

who was at the time founder and director of the National HIV Programme of the Bahamas, and to the Ministry of Toursim. We had a lot of young teenage girls at the time who were getting involved with older men who were giving them STDS,” he explained.

“It was supposed to be a three-day event and we were working to get Bill Clinton and Nelson Mandela on board.

They were willing but the Ministry of Tourism pulled their support because they didn’t want to promote that AIDS was an issue in the Bahamas. And without their backing and funding for the festival we couldn’t bring in Clinton and Mandela.”

Instead they held a workshop with over 1,000 Bahamian students who completed anonymous surveys on their sexual activity.

“What we found out was that 80 per cent of the students were engaged in some sort of sexual activity and a lot of them were not using protection because they didn’t have access to it.”

At the event, both the ministers of health and education made an appearance and spoke with students. “I just looked at them and thought how filled with ego they were and I wanted nothing to do with ego. I kept thinking this thing could have been so much better with your support and then you come in at the last minute.”

Ranard said he slowly became disappointed with the state of the country and after the birth of his daughter briefly considered applying for a green card and moving to the United States.

“But then I thought ‘why leave my country to be a second class citizen in someone’s else country when I should be working to make my own country better?’”

Wanting to make a sustainable difference that did not involve running for public office, he started the Our Carmichael community project. The premise was relatively simple: citizens would address the problems that faced them without waiting for politicians to get involved.

“For example, crime is a problem, so we have a drone. So if a car is stolen, the drone can follow it and then we can call the police. We found out that the crime is happening because people, especially young men, are undereducated and unemployed so that is what needs to be addressed. Women were having seven or eight children because they needed access to family planning and so we provided that. We started programmes for our seniors and help them get their medicines and make their wills and we started community schools to help get the students up to par.”

The programme also provides practical assistance, helping residents secure loans and insurance, and after Hurricane Matthew they helped them repair their homes.

“It is about helping your neighbour.

If you have two fish and you only can eat one, rather than it get freezer burn, why not give it your neighbour who you know has no fish. The great thing about this is that it is not political. It doesn’t matter who you are, or what political party or religion or race or anything you are, it is about helping everyone who needs it - so that no matter who is in power, we will all survive.

The Our Carmichael project - which crosses several constituencies in covering the area from Blue Hill Road to Adelaide Hill Road - has now expanded to Our Grand Bahama and Our North Eleuthera and he hopes it will be a nationwide effort of communities helping themselves.

The idea for the We March last Friday, Ranard says, came slowly and was not something that he planned fully. He just wanted to do what he has always done and what he and his daughter prayed every night that they could be - a blessing to other people.

And he says that he has been amazed and humbled by the response and participation.

“It really made me cry, because you had people from all walks of life out there. Honestly, I didn’t think we would have had that response. I think it was successful because it was someone who was not a politician doing it and I think that people realised that you now have a generation not afraid to march.

“These are the children of the 50-year-old government worker who is afraid to lose their job if they speak out and the grandchildren of the 70-yearolds who voted PLP all their lives, even if they aren’t happy just because they remember Sir Lynden and have always voted that way. We have been able to bridge divides and calm fears,” he says.

And despite the hundreds of calls and the success of the march, Ranard remains adamant that he will not enter the political arena.

“Not everyone who has an idea has to enter politics,” he says. “There is no need for me to run. If I ran for office, what would happen is that I would first have to choose a party and then I would be bound to the people who finance that party - I would have to speak for them or they would shut me up.

“The best thing I can do for my country is to continue to stand up for the people who have no voice. You do not have to be a politician to make a difference. Look at what we have achieved without being in politics.”

06 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

section

The Tribune | Weekend | 07

Friday, December 2, 2016

food Photos/Aaron Davis

Barbecue ribs, Anthony’s Caribbean Rice and vegetables

Penne con pollo with garlic bread

Anthony’s Burger with French fries

Famous pizzas give Anthony’s a good name Paradise Island eaterie a tradition Cracked conch and French fries

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

T Anthony Notafrancesco, the general manager (second right), with the team at Anthony’s.

ucked away in the Paradise Shopping Village, Anthony’s Grill has served up a multicultural blend of breakfast, lunch and dinner to tourists and locals for more than two decades.

“The restaurant has been here for 24 years. It’s owned by George Myers (the prominent Bahamian businessman and hotelier),” Anthony Notafrancesco, the general manager, told Tribune Weekend.

He joked that the restaurant is not named after him: that honour belongs to Mr Myers’ brother, whose name is also Anthony.

The restaurant features a mix of international food designed to accomodate tourists while allowing them to sample Bahamian favourites and seafood as well. Additionally, barbecue ribs, pasta and pizza feature promi-

nently on the menu.

Mr Notafrancesco has been in the country for more than 20 years and served as executive chef in some of the country’s more prominent restaurants.

If the pizza tastes familiar to locals, it’s because it’s the same recipe that was used for the famous Bahamian pizza franchise Swanks “back in the day”.

“People who used to go to Swanks will remember it as soon as they taste it,” he said. “It’s the same thin crust pizza with the sesame seeds and the secret sauce.”

While the Paradise Island location is a natural fit for visitors, Mr Notafrancesco said that it is also the perfect spot for locals to enjoy fine dining in a relaxed comfortable setting.

The restaurant has introduced happy hour, game day and tailgate specials and live entertainment to encourage diners to enjoy either their indoor or outdoor spaces.

“We have $7 appetiser specials as well as two-for-one drink specials and our wings special of 50 wings for $25.

The restaurant can also deliver anywhere on Paradise Island,” he said.

Anthony’s is open seven days a week from 8am to 10pm seven days a week.

08 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

charity The models (from left) Diedre Roache, Leslie Callender Frye, Maeghan Chipman, Fontella Chipman Rolle, Kara Nottage, Erika Adderley, April Unwin, Amanda Pinder, Ashley Brown and Darnel Chipman Ward dressed in Camilla.

High fashion for a good cause

C

ole’s of Nassau and Morley for Men has again kicked off the holiday season with its annual luncheon and fashion show held to benefit the Bahamas Humane Society (BHS).

Store owner Diane Cole-Morley started the tradition 38 years ago when the late Betty Kenning headed the animal protection organisation.

This year, more than 275 guests enjoyed complimentary cocktails sponsored by Wincrest Capital followed by a delicious lunch as models strutted down the runway in some of the hottest holiday fashions for the year.

Key holiday trends for women featured in this year’s show included “The Lacey Number”, “New Metallics” and “Boho Luxe”, a style hybrid best achieved by combining high-end fabrics, picturesque prints and flowy silhouettes.

For the men, essential holiday looks included plush textures and modern fit tailoring.

Fontella Chipman Rolle in Feather & Find

Ramone Perez in Paul & Shark

Mitzi Chipman models Tadashi

The Tribune | Weekend | 09

Friday, December 2, 2016

Fontella Chipman Rolle and Ashley Brown modelling Missoni

Mitzi Chipman in a London Times black dress and Darnel Chipman Ward in a gold Tadashi dress Leslie Callender Frye and April Unwin showcase Alexis

Erika Adderley in Feather & Find Fontella Chipman Rolle models Camilla

Kara Nottage in Missoni

In the swim: from left, Blake Nolan (Vilebrequin), Sean Nottage (Vineyard Vines), Ramone Perez (Orlebar Brown) and Lio Mograbi (Orlebar Brown)

Lio Mograbi in Hugo Boss

For those ladies seeking to stand out during this party season, Cole’s of Nassau offered a few tips.

When it comes to wearing lace, keep accessories to a minimum so as not to overcrowd the lace.

If sparkle is more your thing, you are in luck; this year designers have channelled the value of precious metals into priceless gowns that shone all over the runways.

Electrifying metallic embellishments are a stylish alternative to the usual sequins and sparkly appliqués.

Metallic cording and fabrications are key.

Boho Luxe fashion will allow you to embrace your inner gypsy. With a delicious colour palette, exotic prints and free flowing silhouettes, the Boho Luxe trend is an island girl’s best friend.

The show featured designer labels such as Missoni, Emilio Pucci, Tadashi, Donna Morgan, Parker, Maggy London and Camilla. Cole’s of Nassau also introduced two new brands to the island featuring luxury Italian designer brand Vicedomini and a boho luxe brand from Bali called Feather & Find.

Morley for Men featured luxe labels such as Paul & Shark, Orlebar Brown, Vineyard Vines, Vilebrequin and Hugo Boss.

This year’s luncheon and fashion show raised much needed funds for the BHS to assist with relief efforts for the animals following the devastation of Hurricane Matthew. The event was sponsored by Wincrest Capital and many other generous anonymous donations have been received.

10 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

entertainment

They’re back! Sapodilla Street crew return with more laughs

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net

A

fter rave reviews last year, the team and cast behind the ‘Christmas On Sapodilla Street’ stage play are back again on Sunday for part two.

It is hosted by After Dark Productions, a Christian Drama Group founded in 2012 by Franco and Tamara Moncur, who aim to entertain, inspire and motivate the public through drama while embracing the Bahamian culture and rebuilding communities “one laugh at a time”.

The live musical comedic stage shows will take place at the Dundas Centre For The Performing Arts at 4pm and 8pm with an encore on Monday at 8pm.

The storyline follows Bahamians in a modern inner city community that has difficulty understanding the real meaning of Christmas. While these locals are more concerned about the latest community gossip, settling old scores, destroying relationships and deception, in the end after much confusion, the neighbours unite at a community constituency tree lighting party.

“The second edition to this play is different from the first as this play emphasises reconciliation, finding new love and solving a mysterious crime coupled with live musical performances by guest artists Holman McDonald, Kyla Rolle and saxophonist Jenson Rolle, along with the After Dark singers accompanied by Pianist Calvin Parker,” said Tamara, who also plays the part of “Prophetess Josie” in the play.

She said the initial idea of the production was built on the foundation of Matthew 22: 37-39 which encourages people to love God and their neighbours. Attendees will come to realise that the folks on Sapodilla Street do not always practice the godly concept of being a “good

The cast of Christmas on Sapodilla Street are “absolutely hilarious” says Tamara Moncur

Hezi takes a drink after an argument with Prophetess Josie

Pearl is excited that her friend, Beulah, won some Christmas money from gambling

neighbour”; however, the play will remind them that change in the community begins with love.

Giving credit to the 13 cast members that assisted in bringing this vision to life, Tamara said rehearsals became a great stress reliever for her after a long day at work. “Absolutely hilarious” she said is the best description of the preparation for the show thus far, as the cast members are funny on and off the stage.

Cast members include Tiffany Aranha as Senator Lorraine Whitehead; Raquel Pinder as Tina Pratt; Fabia Rolle as Beulah; Dellarease Rolle as Pearl; Carla Sands as Dra’Quilla; Kevin McPhee as Joe; Kencil McPhee as Danny; Pedro Oliver as Officer Lewis; Rashad Dean as Officer Farrington; Jenson Rolle as Officer Bodie; Tiara Josie as Victoria Darling; and Franco Moncur as Hezi.

The singers and musicians include Tyler Gray, Nathan Boyd, Khya Farrington, Raedawn Lewis, Brittany Hanna, Luvonne Wilson, Ashely Smith and drummer, Gia Smith.

“Our motto suggest our overall goal, which is changing our community one laugh at a time,” Tamara said. “It is important for me to write, produce and direct a show like this because it allows me utilise my talent, seek and expose the talent of others and present a family friendly comedy show to the public at large. The Sapodilla Street series of shows is the beginning to my ultimate vision of employing singers, dancers, musicians, artists and actors/actresses to apart of a bigger vision.”

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 at the door for children. Ticket locations include Lil Mustard Seed Healthy Café (Mount Royal Avenue), SunTime Bahamas (Mall at Marathon), The Dundas Box Office or via WhatsApp contact at 466-7996 or 467-4738 for more information.

The Tribune | Weekend | 11

Friday, December 2, 2016

entertainment Jayel

Sade

Kristin

Yodephy students to add Christmas sparkle

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

Y

odephy Dance and Modelling Academy will bring down the curtain on 2016 with a showcase that is expected to be “bold, innovative and exciting” all in one.

The “Simply Sparkling” Christmas production is a dance and modelling extravaganza that will feature a cast of 300 performers from two-year-old children to adults. It will be held at the Atlantis Theatre tomorrow beginning at 3pm.

Performances will feature all styles of dance - hip-hop, jazz, tap, ballet acro-dance (gymnastics) - in a completely new show for Christmas. The production will also feature a fashion showcase.

Deborah Geear, co-founder of Yodephy, is keen that the public come and witness all that the students of the academy have learned throughout the

year.

“This event is our end-of-year show to showcase our amazing talented students of the Bahamas, who have worked so hard this year not just at Yodephy but at school, sports with charity events,” Ms Geear said. “It gives our students a great outlet. They love to perform.

“What makes this event unique is the fact that you can get great ideas for fashion for Christmas. All the models depict their own style in their own outfits. All of our dance and modelling routines are brand new, choreographed by our fabulous Bahamian instructors Dwain, Ricardo, Elan, Petra, Lovette, Debbie and Phyllis.”

She said attendees can expect a high energy, packed show full of fun, laughter entertainment for the entire family.

“People should come to this event to see what fantastic talented dancers and models we have in the Bahamas.

Our new professional group will be performing,” she said.

Yodephy - an amalgam of ‘You, Deborah and Phyllis’ - Dance and

Modelling Academy was founded in 1990 by Ms Geear and Phyllis Garraway. The academy now successfully accommodates over 400 students in modelling and dance.

Deborah and Phyllis have had successful careers as performers and instructors in fashion, modelling, etiquette and dance including ballet, modern and tap. Subsequently they have gained national and international awards for excellence.

As well as offering classes, Yodephy provides entertainers, models, dancers, talent for promotions, conventions, bridal shows or parties and houses a variety of costumes for all types of events.

Ms Geear said the year has been exceptional and eventful for the academy students, who had the opportunity to perform at several charitable events.

“Our students and our professional group have performed at many charity events, including Hands For Hunger and The Red Ribbon Ball which were amazing. Our professional group of dancers was formed in September we

Anais

Jaliah decided to give back to the community and invited all advanced and professional dancers throughout the Bahamas to attend free classes and workshops with master instructors.

“So we have been working closely with this great group of guys and girls to improve technique and performance. It has been a wonderful experience and we look forward to more events in the New Year,” she said.

12 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

art Photos/Aaron Davis

Straw icon bows out with a stylish show

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

B

arbara Jesubatham, the iconic Bahamian straw bag designer, has opened her home for her final annual Christmas show, ‘Christmas Soon Come - An Extravaganza of Straw Work’.

The event features a gorgeous selection of native handmade straw work including handbags, baskets, placemats and Christmas ornaments, pepper jelly and fabric tablecloths and napkin rings and pillows.

Mrs Jesubatham and her partner, Martha Cartwright, have spent the last three months working around the clock preparing the items which are all on sale during her show. And while there are literally hundreds of items

for sale, she admits that Hurricane Matthew put a damper on production, meaning that they were not able to produce as many items as they had planned.

“This is my final show,” she vowed. “My customers don’t want me to stop it - and I have said this before - but it is a lot of work and it’s tiring.

But I promise them that even though I won’t have the show, I will still be making items.

All of this work is because I enjoy it, it is joyful work.

“I love Christmas, it is the best time of the year,” she told Tribune Weekend.

The annual show has become a hit with her loyal customers, who use the occasion to complete their holiday shopping. As they shop, patrons can socialise in her lovely garden as they enjoy a sampling of Bahamian pastries.

And this year, as a final treat for her clients, Mrs Jesubatham will also provide tours of her new island museum. ‘The Life in Da Old Days’ display on her back patio on Tuckaway Road features interesting antiques from life on Long Island, including old fashion hearths and ovens, sewing machines, chamberpots and cooking vessels and more unique items like spermaceti - wax from the sperm whale’s head that is used for shipbuilding and candle wax and a bunny cigar box, the box used to catch blue crabs.

“My mother left me quite a bit of things and some of them we found when we went beachcombing, like the fourposter twin headboard, and the no’side lumber, which is the boat lumber that washes ashore that you can use to make signs and furniture. I

Barbara Jesubatham (left) and her partner, Martha Cartwright. love history and antiques and I told my mother ‘don’t throw anything away’. I think people need to see how they used things in the old days - they used everything.”

Mrs Jesubatham added that she has also approached several taxi drivers to bring guests as she thinks the show would be very informative for tourists as well.

“Even with my straw work it is important to pass it down and showcase it. I am the third generation in my family to do

this but it is about keeping our Bahamian heritage alive,” she says.

The show, which started yesterday, continues until Sunday from 10am to 6pm daily. Customers attending the event will receive a ten per cent discount.

Mrs Jesubatham’s home - Serendipity - is located on Tuckaway Road, off Village Road. Take the second right turn and it is the third house on the right. House number 46 is called Serendipity.

The Tribune | Weekend | 13

Friday, December 2, 2016

art

Junkanoo fires ceramic creativity

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

W

hen it comes to her ceramic work, veteran local artist Imogene Walkine is keen on creating pieces that are decorative yet functional.

The newest pieces to be added to her vast collection amassed over the years are nature- and Junkanoo-themed platters.

Over the past few months, Imogene has been working on a series of platters that can be useful and appreciated for their aesthetic qualities.The nature theme pieces take on the life of a sculpture while the Junkanoo platters are irregularly shaped with semi-abstract designs and bright, vibrant colours.

“They are inspired by African design, incorporating African masks and patterns with the patterns and colours of Junkanoo,” she told Tribune Weekend. “I started creating these platters because so many people expressed a disappointment in the discarding of Junkanoo costumes after the parades and I saw the platters as means of actually living with our Junkanoo art form.

The nature platters are inspired by the form and colours of the Poinciana flower.

“The fiery colours and delicate petals which flutter in the wind are my favourite and I look forward to seeing them every year.”

The nature platters are just another version of the artist’s flower and sea form sculptures which have been a common thread in much of her ceramic work displayed publicly over the years.

The artist said she wanted to transfer this style into something more functional because “I’m often asked if I create functional pieces - so these platters are my interpretation of functional”.

The ceramic platters are 20 inches in diameter and can be either hung on a wall or displayed on a table.

The process of making the platters is lengthy as Imogene is always trying to

Three Junakanoo-th

emed platters

A Junkanoo mask push the boundaries by incorporating elaborate designs and a multitude of colours.

“This requires the application of three coats of glaze, as well as the colour application being very precise as opposed to loose like the nature platters,” she explained. “I think my Junkanoo platters are unique because they are like functional paintings; the plat-

A nature-themed platter ters themselves are actually paintings.

I think my nature platters are unique because they are functional sculptures.

They have intricate and beautiful forms like a piece of sculpture but they can be used as servers as well,” she said.

Also part of the new collection of ceramic work are Junkanoo masks that Imogene created to pay homage to colours and textures found in the natural

Bahamian environment.

“The Junkanoo masks are great because they are a perfect size for the wall space that a lot of people have and are also a great means of living with the wonderful art form that we have in Junkanoo,” she said.

And with Christmas around the corner, Imogene believes that platters and masks can make great holiday gifts.

• For information phone 437 6438, email imowalk@gmail.com or visit Facebook: Ceramics: Imogene Walkine Fine Art Ceramics

14 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

Friday, December 2, 2016

weddings PHOTOS/BRAXTON GARDINER

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

W

Forever together ‘Wherever you go I will’ is bride Peadra’s message

hen Gerron Dean started chatting to the cute girl boarding the same flight to San Salvador’s homecoming neither had any idea that the chance encounter would lead to wedding bells.

“We met in LPIA on our way to San Salvador’s homecoming celebration. As we were boarding the plane Gerron decided to make an approach. During the weekend we conversed, danced and enjoyed each other’s company,” Peadra, the new Mrs Dean, told Tribune Weekend.

“We were together for 18 months before Gerron popped the question, and I excitedly said yes.”

Gerron and Peadra took about seven months to plan their October 29 wedding at St Cecilia’s Church followed by a reception at 1er Cru for 175 guests.

“There was no particular theme chosen; we wanted our wedding to be about us, and show who we are. We both love live bands, rake n’ scrape and just having a great time. Gerron is very active in Junkanoo and also a member of a band.

“There was a Junkanoo rush out by the One Family Group, and music was provided by the Sky Juice Band, Blue Connection, Driftwood and the Scorch Conch Rake “n” Scrape band. We are very thankful to Bahamian artists such as Fanshawn Taylor, Ebony Gibson and Blaudy who came out to show their love and support,” Peadra said.

As a special love note to her groom, Peadra included the phase, “Wherever you go I will”, on the invitations, the aisle runner and the cake topper. “It was a simple reminder to him that I will always be at his side,” she explained.

Even the threat of rain early in the day could not dampen their happiness.

“The day was perfect. We experienced light showers in the morning and afternoon of the wedding, but we knew they were showers of blessings. The best memory of the day was walking down the aisle to meet each other - a moment of complete happiness. The smile on our faces told it all! We knew at that moment we would be bonded forever as we ought to be,” Peadra added.

Gerron and Peadra said they would advise other couples to plan a wedding that reflects who they are.

“Remember it’s your wedding, make it personal. Have lots of fun while planning, and only keep those closest to you that are truly genuine and positive at your side.”

The Tribune | Weekend | 15

0:(6(23*(2"#-45*(6(7**8*5$

!"#$%&'()*+*,-*"(.'(./01

!"#$%&'()*+*,-*"(.'(./01

!"##$%&' !"#$#%&'()*$#+,-)(./+0(

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

W

()*"+"*,-)&"-."* ;73*"*<*"(&=4(>=(?(@#AAB(#C(-"#$*(D*%$"%BC(,*CC%>*

hen Gerron Dean started chatting to the cute girl boarding the same flight to San Salvador’s homecoming neither had any idea that the chance encounter would lead to wedding bells.

“We met in LPIA on our way to San Salvador’s homecoming celebration. As we were boarding the plane Gerron decided to make an approach. During the weekend we conversed, danced and enjoyed each other’s company,” Peadra, the new Mrs Dean, told Tribune Weekend.

“We were together for 18 months before Gerron popped the question, and I excitedly said yes.”

Gerron and Peadra took about seven months to plan their October 29 wedding at St Cecilia’s Church followed by a reception at 1er Cru for 175 guests.

“There was no particular theme chosen; we wanted our wedding to be about us, and show who we are. We both love live bands, rake n’ scrape and just having a great time. Gerron is very active in Junkanoo and also a member of a band.

“There was a Junkanoo rush out by the One Family Group, and music was provided by the Sky Juice Band, Blue Connection, Driftwood and the Scorch Conch Rake “n” Scrape band. We are very thankful to Bahamian artists such as Fanshawn Taylor, Ebony Gibson and Blaudy who came out to show their love and support,” Peadra said.

As a special love note to her groom, Peadra included the phase, “Wherever you go I will”, on the invitations, the aisle runner and the cake topper. “It was a simple reminder to him that I will always be at his side,” she explained.

Even the threat of rain early in the day could not dampen their happiness.

“The day was perfect. We experienced light showers in the morning and afternoon of the wedding, but we knew they were showers of blessings. The best memory of the day was walking down the aisle to meet each other - a moment of complete happiness. The smile on our faces told it all! We knew at that moment we would be bonded forever as we ought to be,” Peadra added.

Gerron and Peadra said they would advise other couples to plan a wedding that reflects who they are.

“Remember it’s your wedding, make it personal. Have lots of fun while planning, and only keep those closest to you that are truly genuine and positive at your side.”

23*(2"#-45*(6(7**8*5$(6(09

16 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

fashion The Weekend Fashion Report American Music Awards

FAIL

SPLIT

SPLIT

SPLIT

HIT

Lady Gaga

Taraji P Henson

Chrissy Teigen

Teyana Taylor

Ciara

Cara says: “Of course I am a little monster - and I always love that she goes all in on the red carpet - but I have to say this white low cut tuxedo look is tired. It has been done over and over again. Even with the hat it still looks stale.”

Alesha says: “I mean it’s a white blazer and pants suit.

She played it safe which is not the usual for her. There isn’t much to say about it.”

Cara says: “Everything about this look just screams ‘I made no effort’. Well, OK, her face is kinda beat but did her chauffeur lend her his shirt after her real outfit got destroyed? I have questions.”

Alesha says: “I absolutely love this ensemble. From the simple shirt-dress and lace bralette to that blinging necklace and bomb makeup! I love, love, love it.”

Cara says: “I have to admit to loving this. I mean, yea, she had a hard time controlling the spilt and apparently some of her lady bits may have peeked out, (causing a fuss in Twitterland) but I guess she was fine with that. Chrissy always has fun in her dressing and I love that.”

Alesha says: “I don’t like it. I have seen better on her. This looks tacky.”

Cara says: “This dress has me a little confused. I mean I sort of like it, but there are a few things about it that have me on the fence. For example, I hate the way the girls are hanging out - it’s not sexy, it’s tacky, and I really don’t like her hair or the sleeves. Get rid of those things and I like it.”

Alesha says: “You gatta give it to Teyana. Ever since that lead eye-catching dance role in Kanye’s “Fade” music video, she has been killing the “physically fit fashion. I like the dress ‘on her’.”

Cara says: “In every picture she is caressing her baby bump ... awwww. I think this dress is fun. She went for a little drama with the train even if the black/white combo reminds me of Shamu (I really shouldn’t compare a pregnant woman to a whale, sorry.) The hair is a bit messy but overall, I like it.”

Alesha says: “I’m sorry but I am here for Ciara’s pregnancy fashion. I think she looks absolutely beautiful. Mind you, I can do without the white tail but I’ll still give her a pass.”

AP PHOTOS

With Cara Hunt and Alesha Cadet

The Tribune | Weekend | 17

Friday, December 2, 2016

music PHOTOS/SHAWN HANNA

Party in the park

T

ribune photographer Shawn Hanna captures images at the free concert at Clifford Park last Saturday to celebrate the launch of aliv, the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second mobile service provider

18 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

island life

Happy snappy young dressers at Christmas

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

C

hristmas will be merrier this year for children in two residential homes in New Providence thanks to a donation from a local children’s boutique.

Danielle Anusiem, the owner of Kalico Bay, told Tribune Weekend that one of the highlights of her annual Fall fashion show on Sunday will be donations to the Bilney Lane and Elizabeth Estates Children Homes.

Each establishment will receive $1,000 worth of new clothing to ensure that their children look fabulous for the holidays.

“We selected them because these homes don’t get the attention that they

deserve or need,” she said. “There are about nine special needs kids at Bilney Lane and Elizabeth Estates has about 18 children.”

She explained that, often, the brunt of holiday attention is focused on the more popular and more populated homes “We will present the director of those homes with the donations, along with the director of youth K Darron Turnquest, who will be in attendance.

“During the holiday the average child who lives at home with mom and dad can go shopping and chose their own attire. These kids are not fortunate to have that opportunity and we wanted to provide them with that experience.

“I am delighted and privileged to do this and it will be a trend. We are not here to just service our customers, we were here to be partners as we work to

build a better community in any way we can. In our case it is making kids beautiful.”

Mrs Anusiem went on to say that this year’s fashion show will feature the hottest trends in children’s clothing this season.

“This holiday season there will be lots of metallics and natural tones. Fall florals are making a great comeback in deeper tones like brown, mustard, cranberry, red, green, black and navy.

Additionally, fabrics like suede, silk and lace and vintage-styled clothing will be big as well.”

Mrs Anusiem said patrons can expect to have a fun, fashionable, wholesome afternoon for the entire family.

“We have three main sponsors - Sarsha Lepeche, who is providing make up service for all the models, the Baking Barrister Vivenne Dean will provide

Presenting paradise in a creative way

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net IT is always encouraging to see young Bahamians shining brightly in their respective creative career fields and the recent launch of the Fall/Winter edition of the Bahamian Escapes Luxury Real Estate and Lifestyle brand validates that notion.

The company is known to highlight the best of the Bahama islands - particularly luxurious estates, boutique resorts, fine restaurants and art.

Shamon Campbell, Bahamian Escapes CEO and Real Estate Agent, said they have also made their mark in the local community by hosting exquisite events at a few exceptional ‘on the market’ properties.

“Bahamian Escapes has grown tremendously since its launch in 2012,” she told Tribune Weekend. “Initially, we were solely focused on the publication - Bahamian Escapes Magazine. Now, after partnering with H G

Shamon Campbell, CEO of the expanding Bahamian Escapes Christie, Christie’s International Real Estate, we’ve grown from featuring beautiful waterfront homes to now being able to provide professional real estate services to readers that have the desire to escape to the Bahamas.”

The idea to build the business was

born out of Shamon’s love of homes.

She has always been infatuated with real estate and the islands of the Bahamas. The 68-page 2016 Fall/Winter issue of Bahamian Escapes Magazine features a fresh new look from the cover to the back and offers an exclusive

Danielle Anusiem, owner of Kalico Bay, gets ready for Sunday’s Fall fashion show desert for everyone and DJ Fun, who will provide entertainment for the kids.”

The Kalico Bay - A Children’s Fall Fashion Affair will be held on Sunday at SuperClubs Breezes, beginning with a Sip and Shop at 2pm followed by the runway show at 3pm.

look inside Villa Sul Mare, a tropical oasis in the ultra-exclusive Ocean Club Estates on Paradise Island. Subscribers will find real estate updates and the latest in interior design trends.

“I thought there was a great need to present the Bahamas on a more creative platform - all by itself. No longer by way of a small feature in another publication or media outlet. Outside of tourism interests, we have tremendous opportunities and offerings here. Breathtaking properties and the lifestyle of island living in its entirety deserves a stage of its own,” she said.

Kendeno Knowles, Editor In Chief at Bahamian Escapes, said the Villa Sul Mare will leave viewers wanting to walk its halls. “As Bahamian Escapes continues to evolve as a brand, so will our offerings,” he said. “What I am willing to say at the moment is that we will soon begin offering a more interactive part to what we are doing. We will continue to expand our features with a diverse and more organic feel.”

Readers can visit www.bahamianescapes.com to read the new issue of Bahamian Escapes Magazine and get updates and upcoming events.

The Tribune | Weekend | 19

Friday, December 2, 2016

books

Curiosity and da Cat Italian photographer’s stunning book of pictures and poems

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

I

t was a simple case of curiosity that led Alessandro Sarno to come to the Bahamas, but after that initial visit he took up photography just so he could share his love of the country with the rest of the world.

“I first visited the Bahamas in 2008.

I had just heard about the country and I was curious and just decided that I would take a trip there. The first island I visited was Eleuthera and I loved it so much. I made friends and after that I have returned every year and visited more islands,” Alessandro, an Italian, told Tribune Weekend.

His love affair with the country inspired a new hobby - photography - and he is forging a burgeoning reputation.

“I was not a photographer before, but I was so amazed by the beauty of the country that I got my first camera because I was so inspired by the landscape and people. I love taking photos, not just of the landscape but of scenes of everyday life. I like to see children playing in a healthy, natural way, and I love taking pictures of older women, they fascinate me. The wrinkles in their hands and faces and the stories that they tell.”

He recorded some of the images in a book as a gift for a friend and, as more people saw them, the idea for a coffee table book formed. ‘Catch da Cat’ is the result and is now available in time for the holidays.

“I chose Cat Island to feature first because I had met Andrew Jones, who

owns a vacation home there - Spirit House - and he invited me over to explore the island. I have been fascinated by the simplicity of the island.”

Alessandro returned to Cat Island several times over a two-year period, taking dozens of pictures of both the island’s striking landscape and the friendly faces of its people.

To accompany the photographs, he invited local poets to write poems and contribute to the book. They include Patrice Francis, Garth King and Andrew Jones. “I just gave them the photos and then let them be inspired and create what they wanted,” he explained.

Alessandro, who spends more than half the year in the Bahamas, now plans to give every island in the archipelago a similar treatment. Along with stunning images, the coffee table books will include the writings of people from each of the islands.

He said he would love to hold exhibitions of the images at a special fundraising event with the funds going to provide cameras for the students on the islands so that they, too, can begin to capture the beauty of their home.

Already he is planning to hold an event for the Cat Island book at Doongalik Studios early next year.

The project, he said, will serve as a special thank you to a country which has given him so much joy. “I also hope that other Italians and others

Alessandro Sarno with a copy of ‘Catch da Cat’.

who see the book will be inspired to visit and fall in love with the Bahamas just as I have.”

‘Catch da Cat’ is available solely online at the thelonesomephotographer@ bigcartel.com

20 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

film PHOTOS/FRANCOIS DUHAMEL/TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX

review

Beatty back as eccentric billionaire RULES DON’T APPLY RUNNING TIME: 126 MINS

W

arren Beatty doesn’t want us to regard “Rules Don’t Apply” - in which he stars as Howard Hughes - as a Howard Hughes film. It’s actually a movie about late ‘50s Hollywood, he says, and the sexual puritanism of the era.

Indeed, Beatty doesn’t appear for a long while in this much-awaited film, which he co-wrote, directed and starred in - perhaps partly to prove his point that he’s not the main attraction. But it’s Warren Beatty, a legend who has not made a film for 15 years, playing America’s most famous eccentric, controversial billionaire until ... Of course it’s a Howard Hughes movie.

And that’s not a bad thing, because whatever you think of the new film, Beatty at 79 retains much of that youthful charisma - he may have wrinkles, but the features are still boyish - that’s made him a Hollywood fixture for more than a half-century, from “Splendour in the Grass” to “Bonnie and Clyde” to “Shampoo” to “Heaven Can Wait” to “Reds”.

As for “Rules Don’t Apply”, it’s been decades in the making, brings together a Who’s Who list of on-andoffscreen talent, looks gorgeous and still feels strangely uneven and tonally confusing. But if you can get over that, it’s undeniably entertaining and at times, even quirkily mesmerising.

It’s Hollywood in 1958 - just three years before Beatty himself made his mark - and aspiring starlets are descending on the town, among them fresh-faced Baptist beauty queen Marla Mabrey (Lily Collins). She’s been invited by the reclusive Hughes to audi-

Warren Beatty stars as Howard Hughes in “Rules Don’t Apply”.

Lily Collins plays an aspiring starlet and romantic interest. tion for his RKO Pictures. Once there, she realises she is just one of many aspiring starlets Hughes has brought in on contract. But when her mother (the always-superb Annette Bening, being directed by her husband for the first time) gets the willies and suggests they leave, Marla insists on staying.

Marla’s handsome driver is aspiring real-estate developer Frank Forbes (Alden Ehrenreich). When Marla complains she hasn’t yet met Hughes, Frank admits he hasn’t met their employer,

either. Suddenly, Marla is ushered into a darkened hotel bungalow and served a TV dinner in tinfoil. Hughes appears, befuddled and amusing. He asks her name, plays some saxophone, barks into the phone to his subordinates.

These include Matthew Broderick (Hughes’ chief driver), Candice Bergen (personal assistant), and Martin Sheen as Hughes’ CEO. The plot, often in short, choppy scenes unfolding pell-mell, careens like a pinball between Marla, Frank and

Hughes. The young couple has obvious chemistry. But there’s a catch. Frank, a Methodist and a virgin like Marla, is engaged to his hometown sweetheart.

And Hughes, despite his own sexual dalliances, has declared that drivers hitting on actresses will be fired.

The Marla-Frank plotline competes with Hughes’ increasingly erratic episodes - taking the cockpit for a terrifying ride while singing at the top of his lungs, or ordering truckloads of BaskinRobbins’ Banana Nut ice cream, and then declaring: “No More Banana Nut! I want French Vanilla!”

And mostly, the Frank-Marla courtship has the pizzazz of ... vanilla ice cream. The Hughes storyline? More banana nut, with the emphasis on nut.

Which would you rather watch?

Beautiful to look at, never less than engaging, sometimes inspired and sometimes just odd, the film shifts uneasily in tone. Yet it’s distinctly watchable, even when perplexing us.

Is this Beatty’s final big film? At this rate he’ll be in his 90s for the next one.

All the more reason to appreciate this, foibles aside. Perhaps for a man with the pedigree and charisma of Warren Beatty, the rules really don’t apply - and that’s OK. JOCELYN NOVECK Associated Press

The Tribune | Weekend | 21

Friday, December 2, 2016

film

BIFF honours McDermott with celebrity tribute award

D

YLAN McDermott, the American actor who has starred in more than 35 feature films in a career spanning over 30 years, is the recipient of the 2016 Bahamas International Film Festival’s (BIFF) Celebrity Tribute Award.

BIFF founder and Executive Director Leslie Vanderpool announced yesterday that Mr McDermott will be on hand to receive the prestigious award for outstanding contributions to the film industry on Tuesday at the Romora Bay Marina and Resort on Harbour Island.

Mr McDermott was spotted by an agent in his debut performance in Biloxi Blues on Broadway in 1985 and his big break in films came ‘In the Line of Fire’. It was through his connection

with Clint Eastwood that Mr McDermott was able to land his first major gig in the television series, ‘The Practice’.

His role as lawyer and law firm head Bobby Donnell in ‘The Practice’ earned him a Golden Globe Award for best performance. He gave stellar and varfied performances in scores of outstanding films, including ‘Steel Magnolias’, ‘Hamburger Hill’, ‘Wonderland’ and ‘Olympus Has Fallen’ and in the comedies ‘Home for the Holidays’

and ‘The Campaign’ with Will Ferrell.

He now features in ‘Blind’, the Michael Mailer-directed film which opens the BIFF in Nassau on December 8 after its three-day run in Harbour Island. Written

by John Buffalo Mailer, ‘Blind’ also stars Alec Baldwin and Demi Moore Blind in a story of a novelist blinded in a car crash that killed his wife and several years later rediscovers his passion for life and writing when he embarks on an affair with the neglected wife of an indicted businessman. Mr McDermott will be starring in two upcoming films, ‘Huntsville’ and ‘Clovehitch’.

Among his other tv credits are American Horror Story, Dark Blue and Hostages.

BIFF 2016 takes place from December 5 to 8 in Harbour Island and in Nassau from December 8 to11. This year’s

Enjoy the wild ride that is Minor

By CARA HUNT cbrennen@tribunemedia.net SAM Avery admits that he wrote very little dialogue before production started on his latest film, ‘Minor’, set to be shown at the Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) next week.

“The truth is there was no script,” the Canadian producer told Tribune Weekend.

“There was a story I developed but very little dialogue was initially written prior to shooting. I then worked with Elissa (Mielke), who plays Farrah, and Alana (DeVito), who plays Dana, to fill out the narrative around their characters.

“The girls are both musicians here in Toronto and it was important for me to capture the authenticity of what it is like to be a young female artist trying to ‘make it’ at their craft. With the help of our producer, we bought a vintage limousine, snuck it into the US and miraculously drove from chilly Niagara Falls to sunny Los Angeles filming our first feature film.”

‘Minor’ tells the story of two underage

Two underage musicians steal a limousine and drive from Canada to California in ‘Minor’. musicians from Niagara Falls who take destiny into their own hands by stealing a limousine and driving to California. Fate takes an unexpected

turn that pulls the pair apart with polarising consequences The film was a labour of love funded in part though a Kickstarter

Dylan McDermott stars with Demi Moore in ‘Blind’, which opens the 2016 Bahamas International Film Festival next week festival will showcase 99 films from 26 different countries, including 33 features of which several are world or international premieres and nearly all Bahamian premieres.

campaign.

“Thanks to our backers we were able to continue shooting on the road for two weeks and then for an additional week when we got back to Toronto. With picture editing and sound design the film took a total of two years to complete,” he said.

While he has always made movies, Sam says that one of his favourite class projects in college was a short film. “I’ve been making films ever since,” he says.

As a Canadian film maker, Sam says that he is excited to showcase the film in a Caribbean location.

“We were invited by Leslie Vanderpool, the Executive Director at BIFF, to screen ‘Minor’ at this year’s festival.

I was excited about the idea of the film playing for an audience on a remote island in the Caribbean - especially now that it’s zero degrees in Canada.

“If the audience was to take anything away from Minor (as cheesy as it sounds) it would be never give up what you hold dear to your heart. No matter how hard the struggle is, fighting for what you love is always worth the work,” he says.

‘Minor’ will be shown on December 11 at 4.15pm at Galleria in the Mall at Marathon.

22 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

podcasts

Tips on making a success of business

By STEPHEN HUNT shunt@tribunemedia.net

W

hat makes a business a success - and what can you do to help make your business a success?

This week’s podcasts dive into the world of entrepreneurs to find out what they have learned along the way.

How I Built This How I Built This is an NPR show hosted by Guy Raz which looks back at businesses in discussion with the entrepreneurs who built them to find out how they got to where they are now.

The latest show is an absolute peach. More than likely, you’ve heard of Angie’s List, a review service that started out with recommendations about contractors over the phone and is now a company listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Angie Hicks, the founder of the business, is such a refreshing guest to listen to; she talks disarmingly about the experience of starting out, from having to overcome her introvert nature to go knock on doors to drum up subscribers, through to when the company expanded to having a second phone (and that was literally just a second phone in the same office), leaving her sometimes sitting on the floor with a phone in either hand and no hold button in sight.

From her talk, you can see how the company evolved from its early days when people would simply ring her up from a recommendation to the moment of transition when they set up their first website and realised that’s where so many sign-ups were coming from and starting to move to the point of people being able to leave their own reviews.

She also talks about the harder times in the business when it was urged that they

Angie Hicks, founder of Angie’s List, talks about her experience of starting out in business on How I Built This downsize, but she asked the question of whether people knew how hard it was to lay someone off and determined to get through it without cutbacks. She did.

It’s a great show, really inspiring to hear someone’s success story and the hurdles they had to clear along the way.

Website: http://www.npr.org/ podcasts/510313/how-i-builtthis

Good Life Project Emily McDowell is a writer, illustrator and entrepreneur who quit advertising to launch her own greeting card business, providing cards that reflect real-life relationships. It became a multi-million dollar business, and she joins host Jonathan Fields to discuss the path of her career - and the unexpected turns it took along the way.

She moved to California and felt instantly connected to the area, joining a free magazine that she says to this day was her favourite job but

which crashed and burned because it had no business model. But the defining moment came when, in her mid-20s, she was diagnosed with cancer.

She was thankful for the medical insurance that she had - needing $1 million in treatment but only having to pay $4,000 - and having an incredibly understanding employer. However, the way in which cancer affected her relationships with people around her and how people distanced themselves because of not being able to deal with what she was going through really struck her intensely.

Once she recovered, she didn’t know what she wanted to do and drifted a little, falling into a jewellery-making business, then advertising, before the idea for her card business bubbled to the surface.

It’s a lengthy interview, full of lots of personal detail, but it’s a little unfocused to listen to. It’s the kind of thing that would make a great article afterwards once you cut out

the meandering parts, but as a listen, it feels as if the host could be more involved to direct the conversation.

At an hour and a quarter, it feels like it could be tighter, sharper and perhaps half the length. But McDowell is still an enthralling listen as she recalls a path that might have caused many to stumble rather than soar.

Website: http://www.goodlifeproject.com

The Business of Art Russell Nohelty is a podcaster on a mission. He is in charge of a small press, Wannabe Press, and The Business of Art is about getting the job done. Whatever it takes to achieve the goal of getting the product in front of people is what he discusses on the show.

The latest episode is all about Kickstarter and how to use it to generate the funds for publishing - in this case, comics.

The show is a recording of the Palm Springs Comic Con panel about using Kickstarter,

and for anyone involved, it’s a knowledge bomb ready to go off and splatter useful advice all over the place.

Whether it’s factoring in international postage, changes in postage, trolls who pledge money only to pull it at the last minute to try to make your campaign fail, there’s a ton of useful stuff in here for anyone who has used that platform.

Beyond that, there’s useful marketing advice, such as the deals publishers strike with bookshops for display stand placement inside the store, and advice on contracts with creators, and what creators should challenge in a standard deal.

There are shows you listen to where you think people are waffling along and don’t really know what they’re talking about. Nohelty and his fellow panelists absolutely know what they’re talking about.

For anyone in the field, it’s an excellent listen.

Website: http://thebusinessofart.us

The Tribune | Weekend | 23

Friday, December 2, 2016

literary lives fiammetta rocco

You give me fever Sir Christopher Ondaatje finds recommended reading on cures and prevention of deadly mosquito and mosquitoborne diseases

A

nyone who has ever suffered from malaria will find much of interest in Fiammetta Rocco’s wellresearched and personal story of malaria and the cure that revolutionised medicine, ‘The Miraculous Fever Tree: Malaria, Medicine and the Cure that Changed the World’, published in 2004.

And anyone who hasn’t would be well advised to learn about this deadly sickness, which kills as many as three million people a year. “In the last decade”, Fiammetta Rocco writes, “malaria has killed at least ten times as many children as have died in all the wars that have been fought over the same period. Yet the mosquito that carries it is little larger than a single eyelash.”

The mosquito is the most dangerous animal in the world. Diseases transmitted by mosquitoes include malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, chikungunya,

“A Jesuit priest working in the Peruvian Andes who knew about the deadly marsh fever so prevalent in Europe thought that the bittertasting outer bark of the cinchona tree - used by some local Indians as a cure for shivering might be worth trying against the epidemic in Rome.”

Fiammetta Rocco travelled to see the precarious new plantations being established in the virgin forests of eastern Congo to bring new hope yellow fever, filarasis, Japanese encephalitis, various branches of equine encephalitis and Zika virus.

Fiammetta Rocco was born in Kenya to French and Italian parents, and read Arabic at Oxford University. She went to work as a journalist covering Africa and the Middle East and was named “British Feature Writer of the Year” in the UK Press Awards and twice “Best Magazine Writer” by the Overseas Press Club of America.

She joined The Economist in 1998 as Editor of Books and Arts and is now Culture Editor of the magazine and its sister publication, 1843. She also writes

a weekly column on the art market for The Economist online, and has contributed to Vanity Fair, Independent on Sunday, International Investor and the Daily Telegraph. ‘The Miraculous Fever Tree’ is still available in paperback all over the world. It is an important piece of history.

Rocco begins her remarkable story in 1623, when six Cardinals and countless attendants died from the malaria or ‘bad air’ of the Roman marshes during the conclave that followed the death of Pope Gregory XV, who had been killed by the same disease. The remaining Cardinals, frantic as their

colleagues collapsed around them, elected Urban VIII to the papacy; he promptly fell ill too.

Meanwhile, a Jesuit priest working in the Peruvian Andes who knew about the deadly marsh fever so prevalent in Europe thought that the bitter-tasting outer bark of the cinchona tree - used by some local Indians as a cure for shivering - might be worth trying against the epidemic in Rome, which also caused repeated attacks of shivering. In the 1630s records show that Corticus Peruvianus (‘Peruvian bark’)

Continued on page 24

The Tribune | Weekend | 24

Friday, December 2, 2016

“During the American Civil War there were over a million cases of malaria on the Union side alone. It caused explorers in West Africa to be halted in their tracks and the very building of the Panama Canal to be brought to a standstill.”

The mosquito, though little larger than a single eyelash, is the most dangerous animal in the world, transmitting a range of deadly diseases Continued from page 23 began to be prescribed at the Ospedale di Santo Spirito in Rome for some cases of fever. As its use spread, the bark divided medical opinion across Europe because its effects did not accord with contemporary medical theory, which held that fever could only be relieved through blood-letting and purging. Cinchona, argues Rocco, had yielded Europe’s first pharmaceutical drug.

The vital derivative of the bark was, of course, quinine, and many fables about the discovery of quinine and its introduction in Europe quickly emerged. Most were variations on the legend of the Countess of Chinchon, the wife of the Peruvian Viceroy, who fell ill with a tertian fever and was miraculously cured by the bark of a local tree. In fact, a lay monk, Agustino Salumbrino, practised as an apothecary in Lima and the shop he established provided virtually all the quinine dispensed in Europe for nearly a century.

This situation remained unchanged for nearly 150 years until the Jesuits were forced to leave Peru, and all other Spanish colonies, in 1767. Sa-

The cover of ‘The Miraculous Fever Tree: Malaria, Medicine and the Cure that Changed the World’

lumbrino’s pharmacy fell into decline and eventually disappeared. However, by this time, the treatment of malaria had taken on a life of its own, as the demand for cinchona had escalated all over Europe. It found many champions, among them Cardinal Juan de Lugo, who, in the 17th century, fought for the mass distribution of quinine to the Italian poor; and Richard Spruce and Charles Ledger, two Englishmen who did much to introduce cinchona in India and Java almost 100 years later.

In addition to the history of the cure, Rocco also narrates the history of the disease - and it makes fascinating reading.

Malaria badly weakened the Roman Empire; it killed thousands of British troops fighting Napoleon during the Walcheren raid on Holland in 1809; and during the American Civil War there were over a million cases of malaria on the Union side alone. It caused explorers in West Africa to be halted in their tracks and the very building of the Panama Canal to be brought to a standstill.

Still the actual cause of malaria was not known, and it was not until the late 19th century that Dr Ronald Ross, working on mosquitoes in India, dis-

The Tribune | Weekend | 25

Friday, December 2, 2016

Forgotten facts Paul C Aranha covered the secret of how malaria was transmitted. He received the Nobel Prize for Medicine in 1902 and, Rocco writes, “as the twentieth century dawned, the age of ignorance appeared to be drawing to a close. Yet malaria continued to be more of a problem than it had ever been ... [and] a large proportion of mankind was about to be deprived of its most famous cure.”

Within three years of the outbreak of the Second World War, the Germans took over Dutch supplies of cinchona and Java fell to the Japanese. The world’s supply of quinine was in enemy hands. This forced the eventual development of chlorophine, a synthetic which was so effective that it appeared the quinine tree would be consigned to history. This, and the introduction of the new and extremely effective pesticide DDT in the immediate post-war years, seemed to herald man’s victory over the deadly disease.

Unfortunately, over the past 40 years the malaria parasite has mutated to resist chloroquine, rendering the drug ineffective in large parts of the world. Doctors now treat patients with a cocktail of anti-malarials, including a rediscovered medicine that is regarded with fresh respect. It is cheap to produce, easily manufactured in the developing world and highly effective as a treatment for the most dangerous kinds of malaria; it is also the oldest anti-malarial known: quinine, the same drug that Jesuits derived from cinchona bark. However, cinchona no longer grow in large numbers in the dwindling forests of South America, India or Java, but only on the Rwanda-Congo border.

To research the Jesuit history of quinine, Fiammetta Rocco travelled to Peru, where, when curfews were imposed during the tense polling for the 2001 presidential election, she was virtually imprisoned in the State Archives in Lima and had to spend nights sleeping on the floor, shielded from bitter drafts by mountains of ancient papers. She also travelled to Rome, Spain and Panama. But it is her journey to see the precarious new plantations being established in the virgin forests of eastern Congo that allows her to offer the reader new hope, while also highlighting our return to dependence on cinchona.

I fear, however, that with the populations of poorer countries not able to afford high-priced drugs like Lariam, Malarone and Doxycycline, and the limited supplies of quinine from the cinchona forests of Congo, the dangers of mosquito-infected diseases, which have plagued human for centuries, will affect more than 50 per cent of the world’s population - an increasingly terrifying statistic. Nevertheless, as anyone who has survived in the tropics will tell you, the best advice is simply not to get bitten.

NEXT WEEK: class and political satire the hallmarks of George Orwell’s writing • Sir Christopher Ondaatje is an adventurer and writer resident in the Bahamas. A Sri Lankan-born Canadian-Englishman, he is the author of several books, including “The Last Colonial”

Victoria Hall, home to Queen’s College, 117 years on

T

he December 14, 1889, edition of The Nassau Times carried this report of the opening of Victoria Hall, that big, pink building on Charlotte Street: “Our town is not so rich in public buildings that we can ignore the completion of the Victoria Hall, and its opening for public use, which is to be inaugurated by a Concert on Monday evening next, under the distinguished patronage of His Excellency Sir Ambrose Shea, K.C.M.G. and Lady Shea who, with characteristic kindness, have cheerfully consented to the request of the promoters, to act as patrons on this occasion.

The Corner Stone of this building, as many will remember, was laid on June 20th, 1887, by the Honble. E. B. A. Taylor, C.M.G., in commemoration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Queen’s accession to the throne, and in honor of whom it received the name it bears. The erection, however, was not commenced until September of the following year.

The building is cruciform in shape, having a frontage of about 105 feet. The main hall, or nave, is 68 feet, in the clear, in length, and 30 feet in width. There are two transepts, 30 feet long by 20 feet wide, in the clear.

The walls are all of native stone, and the window and door frames of native hardwood, the floor, roofs, etc. being of pitch pine. The roofs are all open timbered and very neat in design, the windows and doors are lancet-headed, and the sashes are of white ground glass.

The plans were drawn by Mr. Francis J. Aranha and Mr. W. E. Johnson was the foreman of works, to both of whom much credit is due. The whole structure, whilst not very elaborate in design or richly ornamented, is neat and presents a very handsome appearance.

The building has been erected mainly for the purpose of higher education, and it will henceforth be the home of the Queen’s Col-

Victoria Hall, which in 1890 became the first home of Queen’s College lege which, in January next, will be opened for the reception of pupils.

The College is to be under the Principalship of Mr. B. R. Wilson, M.A., Cantab., and will comprise three departments, two upper schools for the youth of both sexes, and a preparatory school for children.

The whole establishment appears to have been carefully designed for these objects, and the extensive grounds, in which it is placed, add no little to the utility and attractiveness.

As a lecture and concert room, the main Hall is everything to be desired and the arrangement for the lighting and seats are such as to make it exceedingly comfortable to those who attend on these

occasions.

The cost of the whole property is about £3,500 and we understand that the opening concert is to be but one of a series of concerts, exhibitions and lectures at first, mainly in the raising of means to meet this large expenditure, and partly for recreation and instruction.

We have great pleasure in inviting the presence of our citizens and others to the concert, on Monday evening next, and to the lectures and entertainments to follow. We trust that at any rate the Hall will be crowded at its opening, and the concert will be an unexampled success.”

• islandairman@gmail.com

26 | The Tribune | Weekend

section

and last 2.5 min

grid too!www.ex Use t Friday, December 2, 2016 letters and bla

TARGET

T E L E D I L B T

E D I L B ALPHABEA T THE

*Calls cost 75p plus your telephone company’s 21st network access charge.

PINTS (down)

The Target uses words in the main body of Chambers 21st Century Dictionary (1999 edition)

HOW many words of four letters or more can you make from the letters shown here? In making a word, each letter may be used once only. Each must contain the centre letter and there must be at least one nine-letter word. No plurals or verb forms ending in “s”.

TODAY’S TARGET Good 17; very good 26; excellent 34 (or more). Solution tomorrow.

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION amir ciao coir cowrie crime emir erica miaow mica micro MICROWAVE mire moire movie ramie rice rime rive vicar vice view voice waive waiver wavier weir wire

Call 0907 181 2585 for today’s Target solution *Calls cost 80p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge.

*SP: Spoke – Helpline 0333 202 3390

Century Dictionary (1999 edition)

below the grid grid is ‘rotation symmetrical’ – words, it looks you turn the pa 28down.8Solution 6

HOW many of four CAN you crack words the A letters 16 22 Alphabeater? grid or more canEach you make from the B number represents a letterIn making letters shown here? a C used – or black square.

As inmay be 37 27 word, each letter Alphapuzzle, once only. every Eachletter mustofcontain the D the alphabet is used. centre letter andBut there must at E 39 be 20 you have to complete the least one No grid too!

Usenine-letter the given word.

F plurals orblack verbsquares forms ending in “s”. letters and

Yesterday’s

38Black19 squar 34 9, 10, 11, 20,

34, 36, 4 3229, 13 Bus 9 Across:

Listen, Yode

32 below the grid to start. The G 11 TODAY’S TARGET grid is ‘rotationally H symmetrical’ – in good other 26; excellent Good 17; very I 18 33 words, looks the same if tomorrow.

34 (oritmore).

Solution J you turn the page upside down. Solution tomorrow.

K 14 5 YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION

3 Apiary, 31 Cog, 39

Gambit, Snif Axis, Retriev

15Down: 20 Sowin 32

Jar, Body, A Sandwich, St

15Aggrieve, 13 Sq 28

amir ciao coir cowrie crime emir Yesterday’s solution L erica mica Black miaow squares: 3, 4,micro 5, M 15 MICROWAVE moire movie29 9, 10, 11, 20, 24, mire 27, 28, N vice 29, 34,rice 36, 40. ramie rime rive vicar Across: Business, view voice waive Card, waiver O wavier 16 10 Listen, Yodel, Salami, weir wire P

Sit, Reifying,

4

Full solution

0907 181 2558

1

*Calls cost 80p per minute 21 plus your telephone company’s network access charge.

W

6 Full so 37

15

0907 18 35

17

*Calls cost 80 plus your teleph 5 network 24 acc 6

V

Y 6 Z

(Deduct three each extra clue

3

7 3390 27 Extra clues0333W202 *SP: Spokeletter – Helpline (Deduct three minutes for each extra clue letter heard)

30

6 0907 26 18 6

Apiary, Cog, Sketch, Gambit, Sniff, Inject, Q 6 36 Axis, Retrieve.

R Call 0907 181 2585 for Down: Sowing, Flapjack, S 12 15 Jar, today’s Body, Active, Target solution Sandwich, Stir, Null, *Calls cost 80p per minute T plus your telephone company’s Aggrieve, Squirm, Faze, U 31 22 network access charge.

Sit, Reifying, Punchy.

0907 181 2560 X

36

Extra lett

40

38PLAY 28 M 23 18

14

9

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

22

23

24

25

26

27

2

● Alternatively, for six Extra Letter clues to y

PLAY MORE CROSSWORDS AND GAM

The Tribune | Weekend | 27

Friday, December 2, 2016

animals Animal matters Kim Aranha

Musings of an ever hopeful heart

PET OF THE WEEK

Carefree Casper

By The Bahamas Humane Society

C

PATRICIA VAZQUEZ

T

he fine line between barring all foreign involvement in our ecosystem and animal life and opening far too many doors has reached a crucial point in the Bahamas.

I am, however, heartened by the many people who carried placards in the ‘Black Friday’ march, advocating that animals had rights and protecting our fishing interests, enforcing the laws and just generally voicing a very environmentally responsible position. What concerned me was that so many things were held up as needing change during the march that I fear the animals, their rights and the fishing rights being shared with other nations, perhaps passed by unnoticed.

The march carried so many messages that I am concerned that some disappeared and were lost in the forest of banners, placards and demands.

As far as the fishing is concerned, I believe that our Prime Minister has said that that should such a proposal come across his desk it would be absolutely “rejected outright”. A friend of mine, whose brother is a very prominent lawyer in Nassau, told me that his brother assured her from the get-go that the proposal would not “fly” because “all things fishing” have to be owned 100 per cent by Bahamians. I guess I was ignorant of the laws and facts, so I did not know that it would never have worked. I am just disappointed that it was ever even suggested.

The Bahamas as a nation has so much to be proud of, The beauty that surrounds us in the islands is aweinspiring, yet so many of us take it for granted. I worry that our young children are not being taught about the importance of our ocean, the sea, the beaches and wetlands and that delicate infrastructure that preserves the circle

of life that we are all so dependent upon.

Fruit and vegetables are important for our nutrition and our bodies.

Today, I was grocery shopping and picked up a “bunch” of asparagus … when I got to the checkout station I had to tell the young lady using the till what kind of veg I was buying and how to spell it. So often I have to explain what I have bought and how to cook it … It makes me wonder if those kind of subjects are broached in schools today.

I return to the topic of Starfish, which I touched upon the other day.

asper the friendly cat is very glad Hallowe’en is over, but he was really hoping that by the time it was he would have found a home of his own.

This friendly one-year-old does not really mind sharing cage space with a host of other cats but he would prefer the one-on-one companionship he will get with you.

He’s pretty laid back and relaxed but can play happily when the mood takes him.

Do you have a pleasant carefree home where Casper can put his good looks to his and your advantage? If so, come in to the Bahamas Humane Society to meet Casper, or call 323-5138 for more information. Adoption hours are 11am to 4pm

Seriously, we must stop this incessant harvesting of the Cushion Starfish from our waters by our own people, who in turn sell them to tourists. In defence of the people of the Bahamas, they are in need of money, the starfish is free, easy to kill, no fight and can be sold to the visitors. But these varied colour creatures are so much more beautiful seen through a mask whilst swimming in shallow water than dead and hollow on a mantelpiece.

How do we begin to teach the future adults of the Bahamas to be the opposite of what we are today and to

Cushion Starfish are “so much more beautiful seen through a mask whilst swimming in shallow water than dead and hollow on a mantelpiece”.

Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

This weekend and next (December 10 and 11) there will be an Adopt-A-Thon at the BHS. Regular Saturday hours apply and Sunday will be noon to 4pm. This is a great opportunity for you to select a new family member who will be well settled in

by Christmas. For children there will be face painters while adults will be able to have their car washed while making their selection. All funds raised go to the BHS. Don’t forget to pick up your 2016 BHS raffle tickets (grand prize $10,000 worth of groceries from Super Value) and your 2017 calendars from the shelter. Both make great stocking stuffers and directly support the BHS.

be a nation of nature admirers? What should mothers tell their children when they are tiny? What is being left out of the mix?

I know I frequently return to my “favourite topics” but when I see how dogs are treated in Europe, on trains, in shops, in restaurants and remember the outcry when I took my dog to the airport to greet my son (his master) and the hysteria of one lady taxi driver who rushed off to call the police - because one very well behaved Bernese Mountain dog was sitting quietly on a leash at the arrivals paying no attention to anybody around us - I remember that day like it was yesterday. The only sin committed by Star was that she was a big, big dog. The lady is still a taxi driver. I know that she doesn’t remember, but every time I see her and remember her antics I cannot bring myself to acknowledge her greeting.

I want to bring the Bahamas to another level, a level where we all appreciate the importance of animals in the world, where we respect our ecosystems, nurture and care for nature and preserve the starfish for our grandkids.

• Kim Aranha is President of the Bahamas Humane Society

28 | The Tribune | Weekend

Friday, December 2, 2016

gardening

A turn for the better Plants will appreciate the longer days after the winter solstice, Jack Hardy says

C

hristmas is the great celebration of the year but there is another - older - celebration on December 21, the shortest day of the year.

The winter solstice is a turning point for the whole year. Days start getting longer and plants really appreciate this.

Those gardeners who sowed their tomato seeds in mid-August should be enjoying ripe fruits around now but the process was not easy. The classic formula calls for seedlings to develop while the days are lengthening, with long ripening days for the mature plant.

During our Bahamian autumn we were able to start many vegetables but their progress was not optimal, almost like walking uphill or against the wind.

Raising vegetables will become much easier after the winter solstice.

Many gardeners will have had their early vegetables destroyed by Hurricane Matthew and hopefully will be under way with a new crop. Here on Abaco, where we did not get the full force of the storm, many gardeners lost their early tomatoes and peppers. It was a reminder of how viciously wind can affect plants, especially young ones.

I had mine still in pots and was able to lay them on their sides for added protection. They seem to be doing well now but the setback means that Christ-

Christmas cactus in a hanging basket is one of Jack Hardy’s favourites mas is my target date for first ripe fruits.

Later plantings are doing well and most gardeners living outside Matthew’s track should be benefitting from their labours with lettuce and greens, beets, chard, summer squash and cucumbers ready to cut, pull or pick.

It looks as though local nurseries will have to provide more than usual numbers of seedlings of winter annuals in order to make up for lost time.

Petunias and other slow-growing annuals will need to be bought as seedlings while marigolds and portulaca develop quickly from seeds. Impatiens must also be grown from seeds because the ban on live plants from the US seems to be still in effect.

Many of us will be buying Christmas plants to add a festive touch, both inside and on the patio. The favourite is poinsettia, either traditional red or a less usual colour or colour combination. Remember to remove the ‘hat’ - a decorative pot cover - when watering your poinsettias and only replace it after the pot has fully drained. Poinsettia roots are very susceptible to rotting when overwatered.

I love Christmas cactus, especially as a hanging basket. Treat the plants well and they will become Easter cactus.

Later in the year, when the flower-

ing has stopped, the top two or three segments can be transplanted with the lowest portion half buried. These should root and give you free plants next year if you can nurse them through the summer.

I notice that my strawberries are beginning to flower but otherwise the only fruits in the yard are carambolas and papayas. This should give a strong message to those who do not have carambolas or papayas planted. Both are compact and do not take up much room. Carambolas bear fruit from July to January but papayas will fruit throughout the year. As a brief aside I should mention that my Barbados cherry tree produced a small harvest in November, the first time that has ever happened.

Back to vegetables. Now the garden is well under way we should plan to keep our veggies productive. This means successive planting of those crops, like tomatoes, that will either die off or become overextended. Tomatoes are either determinate or indeterminate. Indeterminate vines will continue producing fruits for a long time while determinates will die off after producing a single crop. Indeterminate plants are a mixed blessing. Yes, the extra tomatoes may be handy but the quality

tends to go down and the longer the vines are in the ground the more likely their roots will be attacked by nematodes. Old tomato plants tend to look unsightly too.

Most lettuces will survive a ‘cut and come again’ policy but it would be a good idea to refresh your salad supplies by sowing more seeds in January to take you through to early summer. The same applies to sweet peppers. Your older plants will be producing but the newer plants will have more vitality and usually develop larger fruits.

Snap beans should have successive sowings but do not be too quick to pull up the older plants. Some varieties pause for a while after the beans are harvested and take a few weeks to flower again. Only pull your bean plants when you are sure they are dying rather than resting.

This is a good time to sow eggplant seeds or - better still - eggplant seedlings. Whether it is response to lengthening days or warming temperature I do not know but eggplants started at the same time as tomatoes (in August) often grow well and flower but do not produce fruits. Those eggplants grown after the winter solstice usually set fruit reliably.

December is a good time to start potatoes. Seed potatoes are very hard for the average gardener to obtain but healthy tubers with a few ‘eyes’ can be obtained from a food store. Cut a fairly large chunk - a quarter of a potato on average - and leave one or two eyes in place. If there are too many eyes you can remove the excess with your thumbnail or the point of a knife. Dip your chunk of cut potato in a weak solution of bleach - a teaspoonful of bleach to a cup of water - and allow it to air dry before planting.

Dig a deep hole and then replace the soil to within five or six inches of the surface. Lay your potato segment on the top with the eyes upwards. As the eyes develop into a plant you should gradually return the soil until the hole is filled and all the foliage is above ground. In time new potatoes will grow (hopefully in abundance) between the wedge and the surface of the soil. It is a good idea to mound soil around the base of the plant as any sunlight reaching the potatoes will turn them green - and poisonous.

Once the plant dies off it is time to harvest - one of the great joys of home gardening.

• For questions and comments email j.hardy@coralwave.com