VOLUME 14, NUMBER 11, JUNE 1st, 2006 N. Abaco Team Wins National Championship Elvis McIntosh Construction Basketball Team Is Tops By Portia Jonsson The Elvis McIntosh Construction Basket- ball Team from North Abaco clenched the Bahamas Basketball Federation Champion- ship after playing seven games in four days held at the Ocean View Park in Dundas Town. On May 5th the first round was played in Nassau against Harbour Island with Elvis McIntosh Construction Basketball Team winning with a score of 83–43. The follow- ing day the team played three games against Cat Island, Nassau’s Police Crime-stoppers and Grand Bahama and won them all with scores of 85-60, 80-74 and 85-82 respec- tively. The team lost its one and only game to Nassau on May 12th at the Ocean View Park with a score of 79-74. The teams returned to Abaco to decide the winner and play the best of three games. Mr. Cay Mills, Presi- dent of the Abaco Basketball Association, attributes the loss of the game to a power failure for two and a half hours, which he believes took the momentum away from his players. This loss meant the Elvis McIntosh Construction Team had to win the remain- ing two games for the title. They came back and did just this, winning the last two with The Elvis McIntosh Construction Basketball Team shows off the trophies they won after playing teams from Nassau, Grand Bahama and Cat Island. The final games were played in Dundas Town, giving this team the National Chamipionship. Please see Championship Page 29
Bluff Point Drew a Crowd Min. Leslie Miller Discusses to Remember the Past Fishing Regulations
About 300 persons were ferried to Bluff Point on the south side of Abaco to see the area where their forefathers lived. The hurricane of 1932 was very destructive and The Hon. Leslie Miller, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, held meetings in Central government moved them several years later to their current location in Murphy Town. Abaco and North Abaco to discuss proposed changes to fishing regulations. He is The landing for getting to Bluff Point is just south of Sand Banks near Treasure Cay. shown here with Mr. Randy Sawyer, a fisherman from Green Turtle Cay. See story on Children enjoyed the water while the adults explored the area, finding wells, remnants page 2 of walls and the location of the church. Food typical of the fare from the old days was offered, cooked on location by Murphy Town ladies. Renew your subscription before the expiration date shown in the label below. By Mirella Santillo to Bluff Point, the site of their community It was a beautiful, sunny and cool Sat- until hurricane damage caused the govern- The Abaconian PRST STD 9945 NW 88th Ave US POSTAGE urday morning, and many people were ment to move them to their current loca- Medley, FL 33178 PAID flocking to the landing near Treasure Cay tion in Central Abaco. Forward and Address Correction Permit #2438 to wait for boats that were to take them As early as 7:30 on May 20, a private MIAMI FL 331 back to the place where their ancestors bus and many cars were already parked had come from. They were all residents of Murphy Town and they were all going Please see Bluff Point Page 4 Page 2 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 Fishermen Want Restrictions and Enforcement Two public meetings were held on May foreigners be reduced from 20 pounds of solve the problem of undue competition by would become effective, Mr. Miller said 10 and 11 in Marsh Harbour and Treasure demersal fish (snapper, grouper and grunts foreigners for the diminishing stocks of on June first, 2006. There have been no Cay respectively for dialog between fisher- when in season) per person per day to 20 crawfish. public notices on this subject up to this time. men and the Minister of Agriculture and pounds of fish per boat. The allowed limit for conch by foreign- Fishermen asked why they cannot be Fisheries, the Hon. Leslie Miller. Accom- It is proposed to reduce the number of ers may be reduced to three per boat from protected against imported fish products panied by several of his staff, Mr. Gifford crawfish from six per person per day to six the present six per person. Furthermore, a when fish are plentiful similar to the way Lloyd and Ms. Chavon Dean, he read a list per boat per day. It was further suggested two-month closed season may be imposed vegetable and poultry farmers are protected of proposed changes to the fisheries rules that foreigners be prohibited from taking on conch during their egg laying season against imports when local supplies are and asked for comments. crawfish from the man-made condos the which was said to be in August and Sep- ample. Mr. Miller announced that two additional fishermen place in the water. The fisher- tember. Mr. Miller thought that was a reason- patrol boats will be assigned to Abaco’s fish- men wanted the visitors’ crawfishing efforts The harvesting of undersize conch by able request and promised to look into it. eries officers. These will augment the three to be limited to the reef and other natural Bahamians and foreigners is an ongoing The fishermen alternately praised, then boats now assigned to Abaco. The fisher- habitats. Fishing at a man-made condo problem and more enforcement will be di- condemned the local fisheries officers. ies officers are responsible for the marine would constitute commercial fishing which rected to this problem. Some felt they were doing a good job un- resources from Walker’s Cay in the north is a prohibited activity for foreigners. Mr. Miller announced that the ban on der difficult circumstances as the fishermen to Moore’s Island on the southwest side of Fishermen urged the Minister to delay Nassau grouper will be extended from the are their neighbors and relatives, and the Abaco and the approximate 150 miles of opening the crawfishing season to foreign- present two months to four months. officers must apply the enforcement evenly water in between. ers for a month after it opens for Bahami- A review is underway on the practice of to all. Others felt the enforcement was bi- Many of the proposed changes will re- ans. This would let Bahamian fishermen issuing licenses to foreign boats to charter ased and unfair. duce the daily or bag limit of fish allowed harvest from the condos without competi- in the Bahamas to the detriment of local There was some feeling that enforcement by foreigners. The fishermen were very tion. However, it was thought that reduc- fishermen. Apparently, there are foreign broke down in the court system with viola- vocal in supporting these changes. ing the quantity allowed foreigners and re- mother boats that come into Bahamian wa- tors, both local and foreign, often being Fisheries is proposing that the limit on stricting them to fish only on the reef may ters with a fleet of flat-bottom skiffs. They sentenced with inconsequential fines. The establish themselves in obscure locations fishermen wanted the boats of violators and take their clients bonefishing. Guiding confiscated. visitors to catch bonefish is reserved for Mr. Miller thanked the fishermen for Bahamians only. their input and promised that they would When asked when these new regulations hear further from the Fisheries Department.
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Pig Roast The Hon. Leslie Miller, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, heard many complaints from Abaco fishermen. He felt that some of their suggestions were good and he will get Every Sunday back to them. Mr. Miller, left is with Mr. Jeremy Saunders, Fisheries Officer for South Abaco, and Mr. Carroll Laing, Chief Fisheries Officer for Abaco. A B A C O S H I P P I N G Joint Venture of Bahamas Address: Marsh Harbour Shipping Co. & United Abaco Shipping Co. U.S. Delivery NEW EXPANDED SERVICE & Receiving Address: P.O. Box AB20737 Marsh Harbour, 2 Weekly Sailings to Marsh Harbour from West Palm Beach Gulfstream Lines Abaco, Bahamas 2 Weekly Sailings to and from Nassau Heavy Lift Services Tel: 242-367-2091 1210 West 13th Street 1 Weekly Sailing from West Palm Beach and Tel: 242-367-3341 Riviera Beach, Marsh Harbour to Spanish Wells, Eleuthera Fax: 242-367-2235 Florida 33404 Fax: 242-367-4885 NEW Warehouse outside of Port Security Area. Tel: 561-840-9393 e-mail: General Cargo, 20' & 40' Dry and Refrigerated Containers, Fax: 561-863-3451 unitedabacoshippingco Drive-on Ramps, Special Charters available Contact: Tina Diaz @coralwave.com RELIABLE, DEPENDABLE AND PERSONALIZED SERVICE When Shipping to Abaco - Remember - ABACO SHIPPING
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i 45 l th a 1 S EXIT tr t r 74 e 95 et us A 2006 - D.A. Lee June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 3
NEW LISTING HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY MARSH HARBOUR TILLOO CAY “BORN AGAIN” #2893 “VILLA ESPANOLA” #3248 “TILLOO DREAM” #2723 Spectacular island style 3 bed, 3 Tropical 4 bed, 3 bath island Two parcels, 1 acre on the bath home on the Sea of Abaco. home with Mediterranean Sea of Abaco, & 1/3 acre with 2,076 sq. ft. with 700 sq. ft. of deck. flare. Extreme privacy, yet close a 1 bed 1 bath cottage which Breathtaking waterfront views and to town. Spacious kitchen & has a spacious deck & access sunsets. Fully furnished & formal dining room. Pool & to the Atlantic Ocean with a landscaped. Shared dock. verandah for outdoor shared dock. $1,175,000. entertaining.$1,200,000. $597,000. Laurie Schreiner Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 Laurie Schreiner 242.367.5046 242.367.5046
NEW LISTING HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY LUBBERS QUARTERS “AUNT PAT’S BAY LOT 7” #3317 “WINDOVER” #2638 “FLIP FLOPS” #1851 Fabulous 1/3 acre building site Tranquil gardens surround this Make this very private beach with excellent elevation, immaculate 3 bed 2.5 bath house your island getaway! Sleeps unobstructed views of the home on 2 lots with exquisite 4 with AC. The property is 1.19 Atlantic Ocean & Sea of Abaco. views of the Sea of Abaco & acres of lush tropical foliage with a Deeded use of a dock with surrounding cays. Verandahs, sandy beach & private dock. Pull deep water in protected White upper deck gazebo & more. up a chair, & relax to the best Sound Harbour. $590,000. $1,350,000. Jane Patterson sunsets you’ll ever see. Kerry Sullivan 242.366.0163 242.366.0569 $499,900. Laurie Schreiner 242.366.3143
NEW LISTING HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY TREASURETILLOO CAY CAY HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY WEETINGS ANDING “HOPE TOWN POINT” #2279 “M “HYUNKALOO ISLAND RETREAT” #2724” #3073 “S L ” #2911 Sandy ocean front lot with 120 Beautiful 4 waterfront Bed, 3 Bath property 2 storey 3 bed 2 bath 1,300 sq. ft. + bonus feet of water frontage in a small familywith 2retreat. bed 2 Cathedral bath home wooden & a 1 second floor space. Additional cove. Swimming and snorkeling ceilings,bed 1bath Nicely guest detailed house. woodwork Two + waterfront lot kitty corner to all year round. An excellent throughout.acres that are Wr Seaap-around to Sea with the property, excellent docking property for investment or to screened-inprotected docking porches on withthe Sea of space. Nicely landscaped. build your dream home. viewsAbaco. from every room. US$1,800,000. $675,000 Kerry Sullivan $1,300,000.$995,000. Stan Sawyer Kerry Sullivan 242.366.0163 242.Laurie477.5821 Schreiner: 242.367.5046 242.366.0163
PRICE REDUCED HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY BAHAMA PALM SHORES “ELBOW ROOM” #2989 “RUDY’S PLACE RESTAURANT” “TRANQUIL BREEZES” #2853 Turnkey home with 3 master Well established, fully licensed Beautiful 4 bed, 4 bath home suites. 100 linear feet on the restaurant and bar. 1728 sq. ft. A/C, sits on just over 1 acre with ocean and deeded dock slip in 75ft. by 125 ft. main road lot with 100 feet of oceanfront. Solid Marnie’s Landing. Expansive dock access. Restaurant CBS construction, sprinkler outdoor living area with swimming equipment and furniture included. system, 15 KW generator & pool. Great rental history. Excellent business opportunity. air-conditioned bedrooms. $1,875,000. $325,000 firm. #2681 $1,050,000. Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 Laurie Schreiner: 242.366.3143
HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY “GAZEBO V ILLAS” #2509 #3126 “SIROCCO” #3125 Two villas in Hope Town Village. Beautiful piece of property with This 4 bed, 3 Bbath home Each with 2 bed 2 baths upstairs 109 ft. on the Sea of Abaco - overlooks the bluegreen Sea of and spacious living areas approx 380 ft deep, total area Abaco to the east and beautiful downstairs. Fully furnished and 39,190 square feet. Build your gardens. Central A/C, tile professionally landscaped own private dock. Easy access to throughout with cypress tongue O S H I P P grounds. Excellent rental history. the town of Hope Town. One of a & groove. C US$1,850,000. A B A I N G $1,490,000 for both. kind. $750,000. Jane Patterson Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 242.366.0569 Jane Patterson:242.366.0035
NEW LISTING LUBBERS QUARTERS HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY MARSH HARBOUR “HARBOUR HOUSE” #2818 NEW EXPANDED SERVICE “LOT 20” #3164 “SLEEPY HALLOW” #3251 Waterfront with rock shoreline 2 bed, 2 bath turn-key home with 2 acres with 200'+ of protected but sandy bottom for great wrap-around deck & cool breezes deep water, perfect for large vessel swimming. Good depth of from every direction. Dock with docking. Spacious 2800 sq. ft. water, a rare find for Abaco room for a run-about just 3 home with 4bed, 3.5bath & Ocean Club. Beautiful Sunsets. minutes walk away. Generator, golf screened-in porch. Excellent for $325,000. cart, & garage on lower level. private estate or development. Laurie Schreiner: 242.366.3143 US $740,000 Jane Patterson $2,298,000. 242.366.0569 Kerry Sullivan 242.366.0163 ABACO A GENTS HOPE TOWN HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY MARSH HARBOUR . BIG POINT - Beachfront property with 90 feet on the Atlantic Ocean. . COMMERCIAL - Located in town near the Government Price Reduced US$595,000. #2969 Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 Dock,6,525 sq. ft. lot. $75,000. #2513 . LOT 33 - North End of Elbow Cay. .3642 acres. Ocean & bay sides BAHAMA PALM SHORES beach nearby. US$270,000. # 3261 Jane Patterson: 242.366.0569 MARSH HARBOUR . SECTION T HREE - Block 14, Lot 20 - $47,000. Laurie Schreiner: 242.367.5046 . NORTH END OF HOPE T OWN - 109 ft. on the Sea of Abaco, 39,190 sq.ft. $750,000. # 3126 Jane Patterson: 242.366.0569 GUANA CAY Sea of Abaco Lot- approximately 1 mile west of the settlement. WHITE SOUND 1/2 acre on excellent surfing beach. Close to public dock. . . 6,560 sq.ft $250,000.00 #3206 Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 EXIT $590,000. #3207 Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 ELBOW CAY 76 LUBBERS QUARTERS WHITE SOUND - Elevated oceanfront lot with 100 ft on the water x 300 . CONTACT LAURIE SCHREINER: 242.367.5046 feet deep. $600,000 #2886 Kerry Sullivan: 242.366.0163 95 . W ATERFRONT LOTS from $300,000. Two ocean front lots just south of Abaco Inn. Total 120ft. on the ocean. . INTERIOR LOTS from $52,500. . LARGE LOT with dock. Price reduced to $105,000. #1589 Total 29,000 sq.ft. $ 960,000 for both. #3312 Jane Patterson: . 242.366.0569 . Beachfront lot - North end of Lubbers. 208 ft. of beachfront TREASURE CAY over 1 acre. $349,900 #3357 NEW TILLOO CAY LOTS IN ABACO OCEAN CLUB WATERFRONT LOT 17 AOC $215,000. #3346 OFF-PORT T ILLOO BEACH SUBDIVISION - Hillside interior lots with shared dock . . ATERFRONT OT FACILITY starting at $85,000. #1836. . W L 20 AOC $325,000. . AOC GREAT BUILDING SITES - One lot off the Sea of Abaco. LOT 82 AOC Oceanfront lot - Docking on the Sea of Abaco Spectacular Sunrise! $118,000 #2857 . BEACHFRONT Lot 136 AOC $350,000. #3347 Riviera 100x190. $248,000. #3120. Laurie Schreiner: 242.367.5046 . Beach Marsh Harbour Office: t 242.367.5046
EXIT 74 95 SIRbahamas.com 1 June 2006 Page 4 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 Residents Make Pilgramage to Their Roots Town when she was a child of six or seven. As the morning wore on, two more boats The Bight to the church, of which the four Bluff Point From Page 1 For that reason, she did not remember much arrived and we were under way. In our boat corner walls are still standing, a path had about Bluff Point, but Mrs. Olive Miller was Mrs. Debbie Roland. “I came to see been cut through the luxuriant vegetation. and more and more kept arriving at the land- has not forgotten the date of June 26, 1941, the place where William Simms and Jelita The soil beyond the shore was a rich, dark ing. Soon, people were unloading food, when whoever was still on Bluff Point Saunders, my grandparents, were born,” color and Mrs. Louise Swain, who was also blankets, folding seats, umbrellas and cool- moved to the main island. “Most of these she said. It is my first time here and I am born there, explained that we were stand- ers to take over to the island of their roots. residents were women and children,” she so excited!” She thanked our captain, Mr. ing on the property of George Curry, who Five boats were supposed to carry every- said. “The men had moved ahead to get William Swain, for taking her back. was the gardener for the whole community. body over, but only one had arrived as yet, things ready.” As we approached Bluff Point, we She said, “There were plenty of fruit trees and it was not until nearly 9 that the first Waiting in line were Mrs. Nadine rounded a high bluff which overlooked two and for many years we came back to pick load of people departed through the man- Feaster, Mrs. Geraldine McKenzie and Mr. coves, the one where we arrived and the the fruits until the ones we had planted in groves. Arnold Swain. They were all born at Bluff other called the Bight where the fishing Murphy Town were old enough to pro- Even though everybody waited patiently, Point. Mr. Swain explained that the main boats used to be kept. duce.” there was an atmosphere of anticipation. industry of the island was fishing, especially Mr. Swain explained that he had come “It all started in 1838,” explained 80- Gospel music was playing on a portable crawfishing. He said, “I went back there several times over the past few months with year old Bishop Roland Swain, “when a music box held by Mr. George McKenzie, fishing many times after I left in 1941.” a crew to clear the grounds for the event. ship carrying 61 free blacks, 361 slaves and children played at the edge of the water But for many of the women, such as Mrs. One of these was Mrs. Mabel Saunders, a while older people reminisced, such as Mrs. Viola Woods, it was the first time they were native of Bluff Point, who came back two Please see Bluff Point Page 28 Arenta McKenzie, who moved to Murphy going back. weeks ago to help with the clearing. From
About 300 people traveled to Bluff Point to visit the site of the communities that were Food was prepared, cooked and served that replicated the foods that the early settlers inhabited for over 100 years. The families were moved to the Marsh Harbour area after ate. Temporary ovens were built so cassava bread, potato bread and other foods could be a devastating hurricane in 1932. baked. A pot in the background is simmering on a stone fire pit.
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Four stu- long to Ms. Michelle Lowe, Headmistress, Field Trip to Andros dents from Moore’s Island submitted their and the teacher of the lower grades, Students Shine This is a report from the students of work and Sasha and Kerriann received the Anastacia Seymour. Of course, there are Cherokee Sound Primary School grades one By Jennifer Hudson honour of having their pieces selected for only 19 students in all six grades, but the through six in their own words on their re- Three students from the Moore’s Island publication. effort made by this small group more than cent field trip to Andros. All Age School have just made their school The students could select from specific compensated for the lack of any official By Donovan Hepburn – Grade 1 and community very proud of them for their topics such as Friendship, My Island or My party they may have received. I went with my school on fast ferry to outstanding achievements both in the liter- School and Hurricanes. Kerriann chose The way it came about was by Ms. Andros. It was a huge boat. It had three ary and athletics fields. Moore’s Island as her subject while Sasha’s Seymour making plans with Ms. Lowe’s decks. Most of the time we stayed on the Ninth grade student, Francesca McBride, piece was called Friends. The publication students, and Ms. Lowe’s students making second deck. They sold snacks there. I has received a full scholarship to attend the committee in Nassau selected Kerriann plans with Ms. Seymour’s classes for the bought some skittles. My daddy and I went Bishop M. Eldon Anglican High School in Stuart to travel into Nassau for the launch- various surprises for her. Both teachers were on the top deck. I saw the captain. He was Freeport. This scholarship was awarded by ing ceremony which took place on April brought a hot lunch everyday by the stu- driving the boat. The sea was calm and Basil Neymour on the basis of excellence 27, and an anthology was presented for each dents in addition to bouquets of flowers and smooth. I liked riding the fast ferry to in athletics. Francesca recently achieved student. District Education Officer for little presents. There was a surprise party Andros. quite an accomplishment in being very close Abaco, Mr Smith, was present at the cer- for Ms. Lowe and she was even given a By Adrian Williams – Grade l to making this year’s Carifta team. She is a emony. day off, thanks to some of the parents who I liked going in the pool and the slides at 13-year-old who ran in the under 17 divi- “Both Sasha and Kerriann have contin- came to fill in for her. This is true appre- Atlantis on Paradise Island. I dove off the sion, 800 m and 400 m. She placed fourth ued to do well in the area of language arts,” ciation and I’m sure both ladies enjoyed the in the finals this year and is excited about stated their Principal, Ms. Ruth Rolle. pampering and attention they received from Please see South Page 10 next year when she hopes to do even bet- Two students from the Hope Town their students. ter. Her coach, Pastor Anthony Williams, School also had their work selected for this thinks the move to Freeport will be very anthology. They are Aly Boyce, who sub- good for her as she will have proper facili- mitted her Hurricane Journal, and Laura ties on which to train. Albury, who chose to write about her move Last month, the Freeport News carried from England to Abaco. Blue Sky a story on her entitled A Diamond in the The book will be available for purchase Rough. All on Moore’s Island are very ex- GALLERY and details will be announced later. Original Art l Prints l Framing cited about her future because of her great potential. Cherokee Sound Originals by Two budding writers, Sasha Davis and By Lee Pinder Lou Lihou Anne Ray School News Malcolm Rae William Johnson Kerriann Stuart, both of Moore’s Island Shula Raney Fritz Keck Kim Rody have recently had their literary work pub- Teacher Appreciation Week Photography by Tuppy lished in the anthology Around the Archi- In the past the government has hosted a Local Artists pelago; Literary Treasures From Across the party for the teachers of Abaco as a way of Bahamas. This anthology has been pub- Beth Sweeting Zandrick Jones showing appreciation for all the hard work Lori Thompson Dion Lewis lished by the writing unit of the Depart- they do for our children. This year, how- Colyn Rees ment of Education under the initiative of ever, no luncheon or party was given in Located Queen Elizabeth Drive, Marsh Harbour the Minister of Education, Mr Alfred Sears. their honour. So our students at Cherokee Invitations were sent out to schools at Sound Primary School took it upon them- Tel: 367.0579 the end of last year, and Grade 6 students selves to show their appreciation all week
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For further information l Telephone: 242-367-2452 Fax: 242-367-2354 l [email protected] Page 8 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 The Editor Says . . . Airport Closure Will Cause Hardship hard pressed to accommodate the extra Marsh Harbour terminal will begin this sum- ognizing the need to upgrade these facili- counters, computers and other equipment mer and will be done in a manner to avoid ties and their desire to do this work with “ needed by these airlines. any disruption to current activity in the . . . minimal disruption to the business com- Medical emergency flights during this present building. Details or the floor plan munity.” However, six weeks closure will interval will have to be conducted from the on this addition are not currently available. play havoc with our economy this fall and Treasure Cay airport. Government is to be commended for rec- will seriously affect several businesses. Had Nassau officials held meetings on Abaco earlier for local input, some of these issues would have come to light. Thoughts on the Failed White Paper Many local people feel that the most prac- A bold initiative by the Hope Town tical solution would be to construct a run- of their settlement as Green Turtle Cay, Council, or perhaps more accurately by the way south of the current runway and paral- Grand Cay and Moore’s Island have been Chief Councillor, to bring orderly growth lel to it. Then the current runway would assigned. Green Turtle Cay was separated to the district’s destiny failed by approxi- become the taxiway. Although the current from the North Abaco District a year ago mately 2 to 1. Hope Town voters embraced runway has dips and bumps, that would not and allowed full control of the island’s af- Dave the concept but Man-O-War and Guana Cay affect its use as a taxiway. These imperfec- fairs as was given in 2002 to the other two Ralph swung the vote against the issue. Approxi- tions are dangerous only for planes that are islands assigned this category. mately 40 percent of the registered voters Work on the Marsh Harbour airport of- coming in at high speeds. All this could be This could be done by a stroke of the decided the issue. ficially began in early May with surveyors done with no interruption to the normal ser- pen by the Minister for Local Government, Residents rejected the opportunity to gain making preliminary studies and measure- vice. or with no economic loss or disrup- but it does not appear likely to happen un- more control over their future. Although ments. They measured 500 feet from the tion to the business community. less intense lobbying by the residents brings basically uniform in their desire to get more runway centerline and discovered that the In the coming weeks and months, more the issue to the forefront. local control, the process proposed was proposed taxiway will impact several on- information on the airport improvements Another recent innovation by local gov- apparently overly cumbersome and difficult going operations. should be given us by official sources. ernment was undertaken by the Central to understand. Although the measure failed The taxiway will pass through the present A portable structure housing flight infor- Abaco District Council when it passed an by popular vote, it was sanctioned by aircraft parking area at the main terminal. mation officers is still scheduled. This is a ordinance related to the use of golf carts on Nassau, and that may turn out to be a vic- It will take most of the space in front of step below a full control tower but will pro- the streets of Marsh Harbour. The slow tory for local government. Even though the Abaco Air’s hanger. Cherokee Air’s build- vide the basic services necessary for orderly mov,,,,,,,ing golf carts were felt to be an process was approved, there was no assur- ings and ramp area are further back so control of arriving and departing aircraft. The impediment to the orderly flow of the grow- ance that local acceptance would translate would be less severely affected. Fix based addition of a taxiway will go a long way to ing traffic on the narrow streets in the busi- to acceptance by Nassau. operator ZigZag was not mentioned and the relieving the aircraft congestion. ness district. That ordinance is now in The fact that the referendum was encour- taxiway is presumed to stop short of its A decision on a permanent tower will be Nassau going through the approval process. aged by Nassau suggests that the need for operation. made in the future along with the decision When the ordinance process is better changes is being acknowledged. This re- Interest then shifted to putting the taxi- on an entirely new airport midway between understood, it holds promise for alleviat- cent effort failed, but the obvious lesson is way on the south side of the present run- Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay. That ing many problems faced by rapid growth to aim for simpler goals that are better un- way. To our knowledge, a final decision decision may be five years or more away. in the area. The golf cart ordinance, if ac- derstood. has not been made. We suspect it may be based on reviewing cepted by Nassau, may turn out to solve Each of the three towns in the Hope Town Current information on resurfacing the several years’ of operations at the Marsh more traffic problems than the councillors District, Guana Cay, Man-O-War and El- runway is that work should begin in Octo- Harbour airport after improvements are envisioned when they drafted it. This is bow Cay, wants to shed responsibility for ber when aircraft activity is reduced and completed. another test of the dormant authority which their neighbors and have singular control the weather is cooler. This phase is expected A 14,000-square-foot addition to the the councils have but don’t well understand. to take six to eight weeks and will require the runway be closed. Cooler fall weather will allow the new runway surface to be used sooner than if the paving is done in Soft Call the hotter summer months. It appears that this paving phase will shut By Larry Smith lengthy Planning and Zoning White Paper of buildings and land, and dividing the dis- the airport down completely with traffic Mr. Smith - whose grandfather was a – to gain a comfortable win because of pub- trict into smaller zones better suited to being redirected to the Treasure Cay air- Hope Town Malone - writes a provocative lic concern over the im,,mmunities. implement and enforce these regulations. port. The two airports are about 28 miles weekly column for the Tribune called Tough But only 40 per cent of the district’s 500 The bye-laws deal with a range of land apart by road. This is presently a $70 cab Call and will be producing occasional ar- voters turned out in stormy weather, and use policies including the protection of ride for two persons. ticles for The Abaconian. A professional 126 (almost two to one) voted against the wetlands, coastal areas and open spaces. It is estimated that approximately 100 writer and editor, over the past 20 years he proposal - after four months of community They also seek to regulate waste disposal persons employed at the airport will be out has operated his own advertising agency meetings and discussions. and the use of docks, harbours and water- of work when the airport is closed. The and book distributor in Nassau In an official statement, Chief Council- ways. And they lay out a very elaborate set three fixed base operators, known as FBO’s, www.bahamasmedia.com. lor Wayne Hall made the point that the out- of town planning regulations. cannot be relocated to Treasure Cay as their ([email protected]). come was determined by a minority. And, In fact, the scope, bureaucratic complex- aircraft support equipment is housed at their A historic initiative by the Hope Town he added somewhat sarcastically, “The ity and level of detail contained in both the Marsh Harbour facility. District Council died quietly last month Council is of the opinion that residents are bye-laws and the White Paper – especially Airport operations and employees will when voters on Elbow Cay, Guana Cay and happy with the decisions made for them by the all-encompassing permitting procedures be directly affected by the airport closure, Man-O-War Cay turned down a proposal central government.” - probably scared off enough people to en- but it is less clear how other businesses in that would have helped “preserve the char- Later he said the vote was both surprising sure a no vote. For those willing and able the area will be affected. October is a slow acter of local communities.” and upsetting. “After months of research and to wade through the documents, many month with visitor traffic beginning to pick It was the first initiative of its kind by a discussion people could still say they were would rather be safe than sorry and are of- up in mid-November. Whether the airport district council since local government was not fully informed and wanted more talk. ten more comfortable dealing with the devil closure and a $70 cab ride will discourage introduced to the islands in 1996. And in- Some people just like to make noise, I guess.” they know. the visitor arrivals we have during that pe- siders say it would have put a framework But he does not intend to let it go at that. Here’s one of many shining examples: riod remains to be seen. Our normal fall in place to control overbuilding and help “We do need more effective local govern- “Pre-existing nonconforming lots may be traffic by local residents will be seriously protect the environment. ment to deal with our problems and I am changed; provided that no change in size, disrupted. The Marsh Harbour airport cur- In fact, the outcome of the mid-May vote not ready to give this up. The Council will shape, boundaries or frontage of any pre- rently has 13 airlines servicing the area now. surprised many who expected the proposed regroup, rethink and repackage so that it existing, nonconforming lot shall be done The Treasure Cay airport terminal will be bye-laws – which were backed up by a can be presented for another vote before in any manner except only pursuant to the the year is out.” issuance of a special permit granted by the Mr. Hall, a 40-year-old computer tech- special permit granting authority designated The Abaconian Abaco’s most complete newspaper 7,500 copies nician who moved to Abaco in 2004, was by this chapter based upon a finding that said change will not be substantially more David & Kathleen Ralph Inquire for advertising rates Published twice monthly the prime mover of the White Paper pro- posal – a 100-page document with ideas detrimental than the existing nonconformity Editors & Publishers (U.S. address) Phone 242-367-2677 culled from the bye-laws of small coastal to the neighbourhood; provided, further, P O Box AB 20551 990 Old Dixie Hwy #14 FAX 242-367-3677 towns in the United States and Canada that that no such special permit shall be granted Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Lake Park, FL 33403 Email: [email protected] face similar growth challenges. which creates any new nonconformity or Photo credit: Tuppy Weatherford for parrot & lighthouse on page 1 The White Paper’s stated goal is to “keep increases any existing nonconformity.“ Graphic Artist: Kelli-Ann Sands the Hope Town District as it is. We want to And, of course, there is also the ever- Reporters/Writers: Jennifer Hudson, Portia Jonsson, Mirella Santillo keep our rural roads small. We want to pre- present influence of party politics in small Contributors: Mary Balzac, Lindsey Delaplaine, Samantha Evans, Ms. Kemp, Candace Key, serve and enhance wildlife habitats, open communities. Mr. Hall is said to be a PLP supporter in what many consider an FNM Ms. Owen, Lee Pinder, Kim Roberts, Anita Rolle, Vernique Russell, Larry Smith, Ms. Wallace space, trails, parks and agricultural uses. We would like to retain our historical quaint- stronghold, so his White Paper went down Free at over 100 Abaco locations from Grand Cay to Moore’s Is. Subscribe NOW ness, while still allowing for future eco- like Hubert Ingraham’s constitutional ref- Subscription rate $20.00 Abaco $25 other Bahamas Order form on Page 9 nomic growth.” erendum just before the last general elec- (One Year) $45.00 USA $50 Canada - airmail But it is really about orderly growth and $95.00 UK, Europe & Caribbean - surface development. The proposal called for des- Please see Soft Call Page 27 ignating and regulating the location and use June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 9 Letters to the Editor Speaks Out in Favor of problems we have seen with the PLP for OUR BAHAMAS and MY BAHAMAS. Our New State-of- years. I would welcome his open support Sincerely, the Baker’s Bay Project of our party. But this is hardly sufficient to Alfredo Cornish the-Art Airport To the Editor: qualify him to represent FNM values in the Director of Transportation Dear Editor, As an Abaconian and a former represen- House of Assembly. Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club Well, well - are we really going to have tative of Abaco for 19 years, I spent a lot The best, and possibly only, chance the Barge Still Is something done about our local joke? The of time and personal expense flying over PLP have of winning the South Abaco seat Marsh Harbour International Airport potential investors into this area. For every would be for the FNM to appoint Mr. Key Aground on Reef Anyway, the politicians say they have 100 who came, perhaps one brought rev- as our candidate, leaving me and many other This is a letter written on May 14 from signed a “Contract” for a taxiway and an enue into our country. For example, Briga- long time supporters feeling abandoned. In the owner of the barge aground on the extension to the existing runway of 1000 feet dier Robbins (opened the Hope Town order to generate support and enthusiasm Reef between Man-O-War and Hope - to be followed by a contract to build (or Harbour Lodge), National Container Cor- the candidates must present a real choice. Town. It was written to an individual who extend) the terminal. poration (later sold to Owens Illinois), I hope the FNM will give us a candidate continues to work to have the barge re- They must know something we don’t. In Dumas Milner (invested in Treasure Cay’s who will inspire us to get out and campaign moved before it does any further damage talking to several users, old heads and not a first hotel and golf course). These foreign- and vote in the next election. I am hearing to the reef. few who, in years gone by, were builders of ers kept food on many Abaconian’s table. too many people suggesting they no longer To bring you up to date, we hired a airports, roads and salt pans. Nobody has One of your editorials referred to the will bother with the “hypocrisy” of our tug boat from Florida. However, on the come up with any idea how to extend the “price” Guana Cay would pay for Baker’s political parties. first try, it came in two hours late, past runway and re-paving it while still using it! Bay development. I believe the “price” to How sad it would be to see the PLP win the high tide. Further, one of the four Some agree that a taxiway could be shoe- be an increase in property values - tenfold. our district seat because we failed to get six- inch diesel pumps plugged up and Please see Page 30 (I remember when my family’s beachfront our traditional supporters out to vote. Please we had to shut down because of the dark- Letters Hope Town home’s value was only the withhold my name as long as the PLP is ness as three pumps were unable to stay Abaco pine it was built with). Developers the governing power. ahead of the incoming and investors in Abaco provide jobs like A Reluctant Victim water. On the second electrician, plumber, painter, mason, land- Baker’s Bay Project try, one of the pumps scaper, architect, pool services, chef, shop seized completely and keeper and generally better the life of the Provides Employment we had to stop to re- average Abaconian. and Benefits pair it. We have now All of Abaco but in particular Hope repaired the fourth Town, Man-O-War and Green Turtle Cay Dear Sir: pump and we are enjoy year round revenue from the second I write in reference to the Bakers Bay ready to pump again. home owners. The master plan at Baker’s Project on Great Guana Cay. My father was We are trying to Bay is in harmony with the second home a cab driver for some 30 years and he envi- hire the Sea Lion at market that we have been promoting in sioned the growth and prosperity of Abaco Walker’s Cay to come Abaco for generations. through tourism and asked that we, his chil- to pull us off. But they Out natural beauty and live reefs are great dren, prepare for it. are busy for the next assets to locals as well as the developers. Today I am seeing his vision being ful- two to three weeks. Do you really think these successful busi- filled. Discovery Land Company, one of We have tried to hire nessmen plan to kill the golden goose? many investors in the Bahamas today, has all the local marine Where were all these concerned citizens entered into a Heads of Agreement with the companies to help pull when the cruise line dredged just offshore government to develop one of the most us off, but they have of Baker’s Bay, created a five-acre shell beautiful pieces of property on the face of all refused. island and muddied up the waters for miles? the earth - Baker’s Bay. It was the natural If you could talk to Surely the silt, debris and mud draped on beauty that attracted them here; so why one of the local compa- the reef during that time were harmful but should some say that they will destroy it? It nies into pulling us off I recall no marches, petitions or letters to makes no sense! and around the corner the press. Baker’s Bay has always maintained an to a safe spot where we Yes, I sympathize with the people over open door policy and without fear of con- could unload some of the Crown Land but most of the property tradiction has invited anyone to come on the cargo and lighten the Hurricane Wilma blew the M/V Louis J. Goulieu up on the was private land purchased from the owner, tour and see the development for them- barge, we could tow it reef just south of Man-O-War where is remains to this day. who I seriously doubt would have ever con- selves, to see that they have not only com- back to Walker’s Cay. The owner’s attempts to float it and tow it to an anchorage sidered any development. plied with Bahamian laws as they relate to We have a thousand have failed so far. One thousand tons of cargo plus cracks that Fellow Abaconians, let’s face facts, you the well being of Bahamians, marine life, tons on board; we are leak large amounts of sea water are factors working against a can count the number of big money Baha- reefs and mangroves, but in most cases too heavy for the long successful project. The barge was for oil exploration in the mian investors on one hand. Like it or not, exceeded them. voyage. Walker’s Cay area. It broke loose during the hurricanes of we need foreign investors like Discovery Baker’s Bay cannot only propel the tour- Kermit Waters 2004, ending up in the southern Bahamas. It was towed back Land Company. This Company is reputable ism industry here, but with the standards to North Abaco where it broke loose again last year. with a great vision and a successful history they are setting it can be an example for - just what we need on Abaco. future investors to follow. Sincerely, I have spent 23 years in the airline in- Leonard. Thompson dustry, always putting country above self. Why subscribe An Appeal to the FNM If I thought that this project would in any- way be detrimental to Abaco, I would not Receiving the Abaconian regularly will keep you informed Dear Editor, be working here. on issues such as: • Resort & hotel development I have been an active supporter of the I want my government to know that this • Improvements to roads, airport, docks, schools, etc. FNM from the time that party was formed. is the same company that they signed the • Phone and electric company changes • Community events My support during the years before 1992 Heads of Agreement with and announced • Fishing, boating & sporting activities • New business ventures resulted in me and my family suffering the to The Bahamas that it would be so good • Immigration, taxes or duty changes • Changes in airline service consequences of openly opposing the PLP’s for the people and future of Abaco. Noth- • Changes to laws and regulations • Actions by local government candidate. During those days many of us ing has changed with Discovery Land Com- understood full well the term “victimiza- pany. So why is it that the government re- tion.” During the subsequent years of FMN mains so quiet on the issue? I say to them rule people were truly free to criticize the “Stand for something or you will settle for Order The Abaconian Today government without fear. Mike Lightbourn, anything.” Name Fred Gottlieb and Robert Sweating repre- I am grateful and at the same time sym- Address sented the interests of all people of South pathetic to my employers for their unwa- Address Abaco regardless of their party affiliation. vering support and commitment to what we City St. Since the “New PLP” regained power, all believe in. Though some of us are out Postal code + Country the political atmosphere has drifted back of jobs because of the undertaking, they E-mail (or Fax) (for renewal) toward the attitude that suggests either you have kept most of us here with hopes of the 24 issues - US$ or B$ Above subscription is a gift from: agree and support us or you are the bad truth being told. $45 USA via 3 rd Class guys. I am again motivated to renew my Many would have sent everyone home $25 Bahamas via surface If you want to renew this gift next year, efforts to restore FNM government. until the matter is resolved, especially since $20 to Abaco please give us your address below As part of that effort I intended to attend it has been over five months and counting US$50 Canada via Airmail the recent FNM fund raising Steak Out. But since the undertaking. Discovery Land US$95 UK, Europe Surface each time I drove by I saw a very small, Company is not just a good company; they scattered group and Edison Key prominently are a “Great Company” and will build the Mail to: 990 Old Dixie Hwy, #14, Lake Park, FL 33403 circulating and shaking hands looking much best project in The Bahamas. like the candidate for South Abaco. I am or: P.O. Box AB 20551, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas I speak out because developing projects Apr 2006 pleased that Mr. Key finally discovered the like Baker’s Bay are the way forward for Page 10 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 South Abaco News
Woodwork and Basket Crafts only bought one. Their baskets were not our guide came for us. He took us to the South From Page 6 By Dominique Chea – Grade 6 made from plaits like I’ve seen before. Their blue hole in Love Hill. On Saturday the slides on my belly, but the water wasn’t On my field trip to Andros I got to see plait is round like rope. driver, my teacher and classmates were deep and besides, I had my floater on. I some woodwork and basket crafts in Red Capt. Morgan at Morgan’s Bluff looking for the chicharnie’s nest. They saw the corrals where they kept the sponges Bay. First, we saw the man who made the By Dominique Chea - Grade 6 know where some nests may have been in Red Bay Andros, and I got a sponge to wood carvings. There were all kinds of At Morgan’s Bluff we saw a sea plane where two pine trees were bent together. keep for my own. carvings. Some carvings were bonefish, land. It was so cool! We drove as far as we could, then we By Alpheneous Kemp – Grade 2 conch shells and giraffes. One carving had Captain Morgan was a pirate who used had to walk to the blue hole. Steve, Dre’s When I went to Atlantis on a field trip, all sorts of birds on one big piece of wood. Morgan’s Bluff as his base. Captain daddy, and I jumped in first. Dre was we went in the dig. I saw crawfish. I walked The man gave us a great deal on the wood Morgan’s cave is thought to be where he scared to jump; but when he did jump, through the tunnel and there were crawfish carvings because he didn’t charge us as buried his treasure. We saw some red bats he wanted to go again and again. When all over the roof of the tunnel. There was a much as he normally sold them for. in the cave. Rev. Hamilton, who was our we came out, Rev. Hamilton told us a big one that was crawling up the wall. I He told us a great story about the tour guide, said not to go near them cause story about a ten-headed dragon who lives saw a big green moray. It had a fish in its chickcharnies. It goes something like this. A they were poisonous. The walls in the cave in the blue hole and comes out at full mouth. They looked mean and scary. I saw women was in the pine forest one day gath- were weathered and old looking. There moon. Then we went to the beach swim- a big mantra ray. On his back was black ering wild yams. She saw a creature come were trees coming down through the roof. ming after that. and under his belly was white. There were out in the middle of the road and it looked so That looked so cool. Rev. Hamilton said The first day we went to Andros we big sting rays. There were a lot of jelly- funny she poked fun and laughed at it. It went that people used to come there and try to went to see how to see how they did fish. Some of them were white and some back in its nest, and just as it did, the woman find the treasure that Captain Morgan sup- sponging. We drove to Red Bay to see pink. I hope I get to go back to Atlantis started to grow bits of trees out of her legs. posedly buried there. Some people even the sponging corral. This is where they again some day. Some men came and found her, and it took slept in the cave to see if in their dreams put the sponges out to dry. We went to By Dre Hepburn – Grade 3 them three days to get her to the boat. She they could see where Captain Morgan bur- see a man who sells the sponges. He was In Andros we visited the Androsia fac- arrived in Nassau at the hospital just in time. ied his treasures. We had a blast at Captain sorting and cleaning them. He showed tory. First, we watched the ladies stamp She is still living up to this very day in Nassau. Morgan’s Cave and Bluff. us how he pressed the sponges into small the cloth with wax from different shapes. But she has never been in a pine forest ever By Austin Kemp – Grade 6 bundles to ship them. My teacher got a Some of the shapes were starfish, seashells since. The gentleman who told us this story I went on a field trip to Andros with hard head sponge to bring back for our and sand dollars. There were many other has seen a chickcharnie nest but has never my school. We had just gotten there when class. stamps that they used on the cloths they seen a chickcharnie. made. In the next room were large contain- Ms. Peggy bought one of the big barra- ers full of dye where the coth was put to cuda carvings, I bought a little one and get its color. When they put it in the dye, Donovan bought a giraffe. It was to be used the places where the wax stamps were stayed as a coat hanger, but first you had to put white. In the next room the women were screws in it and attach it to the wall. We all cutting out the patterns for dresses, shirts thought that man was a great story teller. and many other kinds of clothes. They were His wife made some straw baskets to sell, sewing them. We went in the shop where they were all very beautiful. they sold the clothes. The shop was full of We saw all kinds of baskets and jugs. brightly colored Androsia clothes. They were all so beautiful. Some of them had Androsia fabric on them. Ms. Peggy & bought one or two, and Ms. Lowe and I : 367.2798 : 367.5098 June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 11 Page 12 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 North Abaco News Treasure Cay families are healthy, too. If the employees Finally, the subject of substance abuse Church. Rosline is the daughter of Jessi and are healthy, they perform better.” She ex- was approached. “Tobacco is the worst Alderose Forbes of Treasure Cay and Resort Held a Health Seminar plained further, “Employment is a partner- scourge,” he said. It is the number one cause Johnny is the son of Alisten Nelson and By Mirella Santillo ship between employers and employees. It of emphysema and cancer. Emphysema is Tassie Pierre of Treasure Cay. Ms. Nadia On May 19 all the employees of the Trea- is more than performance and a pay check. the destruction of lung tissues as a result of Romer and Mr. McKinley Joseph were also sure Cay Resort and Marina attended a Concern has to be shown to employees. I smoking, and it is irreversible. Tobacco also joined together as one. Nadia is the daugh- seminar organized by the resort’s Human would encourage every business to budget promotes high blood pressure and vascular ter of Mr. And Mrs. Brian Romer of Trea- Resources Manager, Mrs. Lovan not only for beautification and infrastruc- diseases.” sure Cay formerly of Eleuthera. Both McKenzie, and sponsored by Insurance ture, but also for human resources. Your “Hard drugs spread AID and hepatitis B couples reside in Treasure Cay. Marketing Center, a company located in employees are your best resource and our through needle usage.” Continuing in the spirit of unity Ms. Miami. The purpose of the meeting was to company is committed to developing our Alcohol in moderation has a beneficial Sasha Laing and Mr. Avard Rolle were familiarize the employees about Treasure human resources.” she added. effect, especially red wine. The consensus joined together as one on January 20 at the Cay Resort’s insurance plans and explain The morning session ended with an as- on moderation is two drinks per day for Full Gospel Assembly in Treasure Cay. to them what were their benefits. The in- sistant of the Corbett Medical Clinic, Mrs. men and one drink a day for women. Sasha is the daughter of Ms. Gaylene Laing surance company’s broker, Mrs. Alicia Patricia Pinder, taking everybody’s blood He reminded the audience about preven- of Treasure Cay and Avard is the son Dimitriou, “has been an agent for the Trea- pressure and checking everyone’s vital tive health care. Prostate and colon cancer Marsha Rolle of Nassau. The couple re- sure Cay Resort for the last 20 years.” Also signs. are easy to take care of, if caught soon sides in New Providence. present was Mr. Darren Bastian with At- At 2 p.m. Dr. Shed addressed a room enough. All men over 40 should have a “And the two shall become one.” Indeed, lantic Medical in Nassau, the representa- full of employees, telling them to take con- blood test to assess the PSA. If the PSA is they became one on February 3. Ms. tive of Insurance Marketing Center. trol of their health and life style through over 40, a biopsy of the prostate should be Janadell Curry and Mr. Kelphine Russell The seminar was divided into two parts. common sense. “At least 60 per cent of done. Regular colonoscopys are recom- joined as ‘bone of my bone” and “flesh of The first, a presentation by the insurance common ailments,” he stated, “could be mended as well as pelvic examinations, pap my flesh.” Two hearts with one sounding agents, went over the benefits of insurance avoided with the proper diet and life style. smear and mammograms for women. beat. The ceremony took place at Unity coverage and to make employees aware of Eat less saturated fats, check calories in, The organizers of the seminar were very Baptist in Treasure Cay and was officiated good health habits,” explained Mrs. versus calories out,” he said. He talked pleased with the attendance of the employ- by Rev. Edward Laroda and Rev. John McKenzie. Each employee present was about eating disorders and explained obe- ees and the interest they showed. This was McIntosh. Janadell is the daughter of Ms. given a publication issued by Atlantic Medi- sity which is when your body mass is ex- demonstrated by the relevant questions Daisy Ward of Treasure Cay and Kelphine cal covering health issues. The second part cessive. many asked. is the son of Mrs. Bridgette Thurston-Mills was reserved for Dr. Shed’s presentation He explained how diabetes relates to Wedding Bells of Treasure Cay and Mr. Scott Russell of which was Take Control of Your Health. obesity and obesity to diet. Diabetes 2 is Are Still Ringing Green Turtle Cay. Eighty nine employees currently enjoy usually a consequence of obesity. It is re- Ribbons of love flew across the skies on By Vernique Russell medical insurance through the resort. “As lated to a bad diet heavy in sugars. “Avoid February 11 as Ms. Jennifer Johnson and “I do!” This saying has been very popu- soon as they are working full time, they eating too many cookies or cakes and drink- Mr. Daniel Des-Auguste exchanged lifetime lar in the community of Treasure Cay dur- are eligible for insurance coverage,” ex- ing sweetened sodas.” He explained how vows at Full Gospel Assembly. The cer- ing the first five months of this year. The plained Mrs. McKenzie. She continued, to avoid high cholesterol that is responsible emony was officiated by Rev. Stafford year began with wedding bells ringing and “The exercise the company is conducting for cardiovascular problems. “Eat more Symonette. Jennifer is the daughter of Ms. the ringing continues. today is so employees become aware of the fish, less dairy products. Eat nuts and cut Estelle Major of Treasure Cay. On January 14 Treasure Cay experienced benefits available through this company and down on red meat. Exercise regularly. Ex- “She found herself, she found her lover its first double wedding ceremony. Ms. to ensure that they practice healthy living. ercise raises the HDL or good cholesterol Rosline Forbes was joined in matrimony to We want to make sure that they extend these and increases your metabolism, leading to Please see North Page 13 Mr. Johnny Pierre at St. Simon’s Anglican practices to their home life so that their weight loss.”
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Hand Tools June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 13 More North Abaco News
Fund Raiser Was Held supply was interrupted North From Page 12 By Vernique Russell without explanation. In mid-May electric- for life and the two were joined together in The community of North Abaco is mak- ity supply was inter- the Lord.” Ms. Athena Mickey and Mr. ing preparation for it first annual Summer rupted between the Vito Russell completed themselves as they Festival and Power Boat Races. With the communities of Trea- were joined together in holy matrimony on relocation of the All Abaco Regatta, the sure Cay and Little April 24. The ceremony took place at Full community came together to brainstorm Abaco. These areas lost Gospel Assembly. Athena is the guidance another festival to replace the All Abaco electricity at 8:55 a.m. counselor at the Sherlin Bootle High School Regatta. The event was a source of income There was no formal and is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alvia for many. On May 20 the committee hosted warning given by BEC Mickey of Nassau. Vito is the son of Mr. its first fund raiser in the form of a steak- on Radio Abaco as they Chris “The Burner” and Myrtis Russell. out at the Regatta Village site in Treasure normally do. After On May 20 Rev. Stafford and Mrs. Lacy Cay. Tickets were on sale for $10. making attempts to con- Syrnonette along with Pastor Clint and Mrs. Thank You, Mr. Ingraham tact personnel at the Wendy Laroda celebrated with their chil- By Vernique Russell BEC branches both in dren Cramston and Calea in the joining of In an effort to express their gratitude to Treasure Cay and The Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham, Member of Parliament for matrimony. The morning blessing matri- the former prime minister and Member of Marsh Harbour, I was North Abaco, attended several functions on Abaco on May 26- mony ceremony began at 8.30 a.m. at Full Parliament for North Abaco, the Rt. Hon. finally successful at 28 to receive the thanks and appreciation of the people of Abaco Gospel Assembly in Treasure Cay followed Hubert A. Ingraham, the constituency 3:59 p.m. At this time I for what he has done for his home island. He is shown here at by a breakfast reception at the Touch of planned a fun-filled weekend of thanksgiv- learned that the power at the Treasure Cay airport on his arrival on May 26. Class Restaurant in Treasure Cay. The ser- ing for May 26-28. The celebration began was interrupted to upgrade the GSM tow- you be more considerate. Advise residents vice was officiated by Rev. Patrick Paul, on Friday with a social time of apprecia- ers on the Sherlin Bootle Highway. I was not sometime but every time of power sup- National Superintendent of the Assemblies tion at Ingraham Park in Cooper’s Town. also informed that the electrical supply ply interruptions. Due to the power outage, of God in the Bahamas. On May 27 there was a gala banquet at the should be restored at 4:30 p.m. Congratulations are extended to all the Great Abaco Beach Resort. The climax for BEC, residents realize that the work must couples. As you embark upon this chapter this fun-filled weekend was a church ser- Please see North Page 29 be completed; we are just requesting that in your life, may each day bring joy and vice of thanksgiving at the Full Gospel As- fulfillment. May your life together bubble sembly in Treasure Cay. The planning com- with love and laughter and may your glass mittee wanted the entire community of always be brim-full with good health and Abaco to celebrate with them as they said Guana Freight Services cheers. “Thank you” to a giant of a man. The events Regular Freight Runs to Guana & Scotland Cay Love is indeed in the air in Treasure Cay. were organized by Mrs. Melvern Cornish.. Monday thru Friday • Charters & Water available on request The spirit of commitment and completeness BEC, Please Be Considerate is walking. With all these weddings so far By Vernique Russell Phone or Fax and this is just May, it leaves me to wonder The popular lyrics of Civil Servant by Rich or Melena at “who will be next?” But something tells Bahamian music legend, KB, normally 242-365-5190 me it wouldn’t be a long wait to find out. leaves a smile on everyone’s face. How- 477-5292 Once again, congratulations! ever, they were no smiles on the faces of 375-8833 Northern Abaco residents when their power Great Guana Cay
by Under the Palms Web sites starting at $600 “We contacted Under the Palms to develop a new web site for us , within 3 months it was up and running. With over 50 pages and close to 300 pictures, that was a lot of work to accomplish in a short period of time. We are extremely happy with the result, they know and love the Abaco’s and that comes across in their work”. - Julie Farrington, Island Property Management, Green Turtle Cay visit our site at abacoislandrentals.com TREASURE CAY HOTEL RESORT & MARINA 10 years in the out islands Resort Features: •Spectacular 3 -mile beach • (203) 389-3304 Championship golf course •Marina-view restaurant & bar [email protected] •Pool, tennis, watersports visit our site at underthepalms.com •150-slip full-service marina •Diving, snorkeling & dive shop •Boat rentals, charters & guides visit some of our clients sites: •Hotel rooms, 2 or 3 BR suites www.treasurecay.com abaconian.com abacotranquility.com Treasure Cay Road abacoislandrentals.com baystreetrentals.com (exit off Bootle Hwy) pineapplesbar.com waterwaysrentals.com Hotel: 242-365-8801 Spinnaker Restaurant: 242-365-8469 louiesseasidevillas.com schoonerslanding.com Golf Course: 242-365-8045 Treasure Divers: 242-365-8465 Page 14 The Abaconian June 1, 2006
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TREASURE CAY SHOPPING CENTER • OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY 8AM-6PM & SUNDAY 9AM-1PM • CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 15 Junkanoo Festival Time Is Approaching Provided by the Abaco Tourist Office Abaco singing celebrities Jay Mitchel, show. The Back Yard Quadrille Dancers ticipate. Food and drink; arts and crafts Throughout Abaco, anticipation usu- Gino D and Colin McDonald will be fea- will perform along with Ophie and the stalls in addition to kids’ activities will ally begins to escalate as the summer tured. Dance groups are scheduled, and Boys-rake and scrape music. Modern complete the summer, festive atmosphere months approach for the commencement the sensational New Wave Dancers from Vintage from Nassau, Bahamian super- and execute the theme of Party Time in of the traditional Goombay Summer Fes- Grand Bahama will perform colourful and star, Elon Moxey, and the dynamic en- Abaco. tival. Hosted by the Abaco Tourist Of- rhythmic themed routines every other tertainer, KB, are also scheduled to par- fice, over a two-month period, entertain- ment and enjoyment is delivered through the experience of the Abaco brand of Bahamian culture. Each year it is guar- Bridal Seminar Trains Consultants anteed to be something spectacular and By Jennifer Hudson the job of a wedding planner involves and fessionally and we must aim to make The different through its theme, entertain- A seminar organized by the Abaco of- explained how poor planning could ruin the Bahamas and the Caribbean the star jewel.” ment, food, arts and crafts. fice of the Ministry of Tourism was held reputation of the wedding business in the All participants at the seminar had some Interesting adjustments to the festival’s for prospective bridal consultants on May Bahamas. “If a wedding on Abaco goes experience planning weddings, and each was program are always expected. However, 9 at the Learning Resources Centre in badly, the people will tell others not to get asked to describe some of their activities. this year an innovative idea was sug- Marsh Harbour. married in The Bahamas,” she said. “Nega- The certification programme for Wed- gested. This year Goombay Summer Fes- Kendi Anderson, Tourism’s local Coor- tive experiences get publicised much faster dings Beautiful is a correspondence course tival will be renamed and replaced by dinator of Weddings and Honeymoons, who than positive ones, so we need better trained which students take at their own pace with Junkanoo Summer Festival. has been responsible for developing the wedding professionals in The Bahamas. six months to one year being the recom- The festival will be introduced successful wedding program on Abaco, “When people want an island wedding, mended time frame for completion. The throughout The Bahamas and hosted by welcomed the 18 participants. “This busi- The Bahamas is often considered because course consists of 18 assignments covering the various tourism offices in designated ness is growing by leaps and bounds,” she it is conveniently close to the United States, areas during the summer months. Al- said. “Abaco is now seeing an assortment a big market. Brides will go to a place where Please see Seminar Page though the name has been replaced, one of weddings such as Hindu, African and they know weddings will be handled pro- thing is certain, not to be changed is the Jewish in addition to the traditional Chris- atmosphere of celebrating the Bahamian tian or civil wedding. Wedding planners heritage and the cultural entertainment, need to understand that they must be pre- Abaco style. pared to do whatever the customer wants The theme Party Time in Abaco de- in order to make us a world-class destina- picts what will be showcased at Abaco’s tion. We should be able to do weddings Junkanoo Summer Festival 2006 during anywhere in the world and this seminar six alternating weeks beginning June 9th could be the start of a professional wed- and ending August 11th at Goombay Park ding career for you.” in Marsh Harbour. Each evening will Presenter for the seminar was Ms. Janet present a junkanoo parade, local and na- Albury, a certified wedding specialist from tional Bahamian calypso and marching Freeport who is a representative of Wed- bands including of the Royal Bahamas dings Beautiful Bahamas and Caribbean Police Marching and pop bands sched- Islands. This is the top certification The participants of the Bridal Consultants Seminar learned about working with visitors uled to make three visits during the sum- programme for wedding planners and is wanting to marry on Abaco. The wedding program has been very successful on Abaco mer festival. affiliated with Weddings Beautiful World- and this seminar covered many aspects and details of how to satisfy the couples to make Other special evenings will produce va- wide. their day very special. In the foreground is Ms. Jeritzan Outten, Abaco’s Director of riety shows when nationally acclaimed Ms. Albury gave an overview of what Tourism. Page 16 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 Ministry of Tourism Directors & Top Aids Gives The ABACO CLUB On Winding Bay Left to right, Ms. Jeritzan Outten, Tourism Director for The Abacos, Mr. Grant Noble, Club Director at The Abaco Club, Ms. Vernice Walkine, Director General of Tourism, Ms. Angela Cleare, Tourism Senior Director for the Out Islands, Mr. Highest Grade Ellison “Tommy” Thompson, Deputy Director General of Tourism, and Ms. Geneva Cooper, Tourism Senior Director in The Director General’s Office.
“This place is absolutely impressive. In my opinion, The Abaco Club on Winding Bay is the finest example of what the Government of The Bahamas and we at The Ministry of Cabanna scenes at The Abaco Club. Tourism expect to see happen in this
country, as it relates to Happy Staffers at The Abaco Club. developments”. Ms. Vernice Walkine, Director General of Tourism “With the combinations of Botannical scenes at The Abaco Club. the natural heav- The Natural life at enly beauty and “... kudos to the The Abaco Club club for the the magnificent preservation and facilities you have use of all the here, supersedes indigenous plants, everything else we trees, shrubberies have in The and stones. Simply Bahamas put, the entire . atmosphere at The period Ms. Jeritzan” Outten Abaco Club, is out Abaco Tourism Director of this world. First Class Golf Course Ms. Angela ”Cleare at The Abaco Club Senior Director Out Islands Snorkelling scenes at The Abaco Club. Ministry of Tourism Happy trails at This place is mind blowing. It is absolutely off The Abaco Club. “ “The club is absolutely the chain. Before my visit, I did not see or hear amazing. You have the ideal much about the project. It is significantly more spot here; the landscaping is than I anticipated. Anyone will be more than Cottage rooms at superb and the activities overjoyed to stay here. Presently, I am not aware The Abaco Club available, are just what of any other existing properties in The Bahamas visitors are looking for now that can compare to The Abaco Club . days. We are looking forward ” to the expansions and the Ms. Geneva Cooper partnering with “The Ritz Senior Director, Ministry of Tourism Carlton”. This merger will ad Club House at The Abaco Club more excellence to the present existing product.” Mr. Ellison Thompson, Deputy Director General of Tourism
The Abaco Club • PH:1-888-303-2765 • 242-367-0077 • Abaco, The Bahamas • www.theabacoclub.com Produced By: Mr Gladstone McEwan June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 17 ChrisThompson Real Estate
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FAR NIENTE, CROWS NEST, North End, Elbow Cay North End, Elbow Cay 4 bed / 4 bath on the Sea of Ocean front North End Abaco North End, Elbow Elbow Cay - large 1.5 acre Cay. Large open floor plan, property, 2 bed / 2bath villa, fully furnished, beautiful generator room, can be beach $3,900,000 subdivided $4,460,000 SUMBLIME, Hope Town Settlement - Traditional Abaco MAGNUSON HOUSE, home overlooking the Hope Town Harbour. 4 bed 2 bath with FINDERS KEEPERS, North End, Elbow Cay detached building and dock on the Quiet North End Elbow harbour. $1,600,000. White Sound, Elbow Cay Cay, 3 bed/3 bath (de- Great rental cottage one lot tached master efficiency) CONCH QUEST - Ocean front villa, 2 bedroom, 1 bath with room from ocean, 2 bed 1.5 bath, overlooking white sandy to expand. Open deck overlooks beach, large wrap deck, excellent rental history excellent surfing location. Just $465,000 sold fully furnished, great steps from marina and restaurant, art work, boat, golf cart rental history available. $795,000. included $1,485,000 JACKS JUNGLE - Lubbers Quarters waterfront west side over KIWI HOUSE, HIGH HOPES, 1/2 acre with deeded dockslip. $240,000 White Sound, Elbow Cay North End, Elbow Cay . Newly custom built Atlantic Ocean, North End WHITE SOUND - Rare Ocean front find in White Sound, large lot with Bahamian style home, 2- Elbow Cay 3 bed 3 bed Dock on White Sound Bay. 150’ on CONTRACT story, 3 bed, 2.5 bath. bath, large ocean side the ocean and White Sound Bay, Expansive decking Pool, 129’ on North Boundary, and 94’ on deck, excellent history UNDER central AC, generator. $1,450,000 South Boundary. Ideal spot to build second home, or income producing Spectacular views of the rental $899,000. Atlantic Ocean $897,000 OCEAN FRONT WHITE SOUND BLEST NEST, Lots #13 & #14 with dockage on PINEAPPLE BEACH White Sound Bay $499,000 each. HOUSE North End, Elbow Cay White Sound, Elbow Cay DORROS COVE Lot #18 335,000. High on ocean dune at and Lot #20 $362,000. UNDER Oceanfront home with North End. 3 bed / 3 bath CONTRACT POOL, 4 bed / 3 bath, open (detached guest cottage) LYNARD CAY kitchen on top floor Efficiency panoramic views, excellent 3 acres on Sea of Abaco, north of pond $730,000. 1 cottage adjacent to main rental history $1,425,000 acre north of pond on Sea of Abaco $365,000. house, rental history $1,800,000 * Private Islands * Waterfront Homes and Land* Investment Property * Acreage * Project/Property Management ***** Exclusive Agents for Matt Lowe’s Cay ***** www.ChrisThompsonRealEstate.com Chris Thompson Greg Roberts Page 18 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 Ingraham Meets with Guana Cay Objectors A gathering of 40 - 50 persons greeted • The lack of government’s concern and • Current law does not allow Crown in opposition and the present government the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham and his party consultation with the residents of Guana Cay. Land to be sold to foreigners or in particu- is in control of the terms given the devel- of FNM leaders under the fig tree on the • Government should be more concerned lar not for the foreigners to sell it at a profit. opers. Mr. Ingraham promised to get back settlement harbour on Guana Cay. Mr. with the welfare of the residents than pan- The residents’ views were well presented to them with a report on any changes re- Ingraham, the Member of Parliament for dering to the developers. without undue emotion and often drew a sulting from his tour of the project and meet- North Abaco and the leader of the opposi- • Dissatisfaction over the proposed in- comment from Mr. Ingraham. ing with the Baker’s Bay management team. tion, came to hear first hand of the resi- ternal monitoring by the developers. The He was concerned when told that the 126 This subsequent meeting with the Baker’s dents’ concerns and objections to the residents want independent scientific over- acres of Crown and Treasury Land under management, actually the principals of the Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club on the sight of compliance including veto power discussion was the only land of this nature Discovery Land Company of California, north end of Guana Cay. Several residents when things go astray. on Guana Cay. Secondly, without elabo- followed his meeting with town residents. came forward and gave summaries of these • Although the ownership of the Crown rating, he said that this development is gen- He was accompanied by many of the issues. and Treasury Land is still being contested erally within the parameters of what the FNM leaders and other Members of Par- Common concerns raised included the and has not been given, sold or leased to FNM would consider a model project. He liament. At the conclusion of the meeting following: the developers yet, extensive marina con- was of the opinion that the BEST Commis- in town, the group went by ferry to the • The size of the project will overwhelm struction was said to be underway. sion would be monitoring the project Baker’s Bay development for a tour and Guana’s laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. • Vehicle activity on the beach is dis- closely. meeting with the employees and manage- • Hazards will be imposed on the health turbing to nesting turtles and is illegal in He was apologetic in being unable to ment. of the nearby reef by the golf course from any event. promise any specific relief as his party was chemical and fertilizer runoff.
The Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham met with the residents of Guana Cay to hear their complaints After listening to the complaints of the Guana Cay residents, Mr. Ingraham, left, toured about the Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club development begun on the north end of their the Baker’s Bay project. He is shown listening to a presentation by Mr. Livingston island. He felt that their complaints could be resolved. Shown here is Mr. Troy Albury Marshall, right, a Vice President of the Discovery Land Company that is developing the stating his objections. Listening to him are Mr. Brent Symonette, MP, Mr. Neko Grant area. Assisting with the presentation was Bruce McDaniel. from Freeport, Mr. Ingraham, Mr. Larry Cartwright, MP for Long Island, and Mr. Tommy Turnquest, Senator.
bahamian cuisine on Hope Town's waterfront Bar Opens Daily 10 a.m. Closed on Tuesdays Happy Hour 5 - 6 p.m. Lunch & Dinner Daily Lunch 11:30 am - 3 pm • Dinner 6 - 9 pm RENTAL Appetizers 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m ICE BIKES Call 366-0087 • 366-0292 • VHF Ch 16 June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 19 Hubert Ingraham Met with Developers On arrival at the Baker’s Bay dock, the Mr. Ingraham noted that the developers group was given a presentation by Dr. are aware of potential danger to the reef Livingston Marshall, Sr. Vice President for and have gone to lengthy means to contain Environmental and Community Affairs, and any damaging nutrients from the golf course Ed Davita of Discovery Land Company. and keep them from reaching the reef. Ex- Questions and answers followed. The group tensive monitoring of the reef has begun then went to the sales area on the north- which will provide information on existing west corner of the 490 acres they own out- conditions. This data will allow scientists right. to monitor future conditions and make in- This took them past the reconstructed formed decisions on corrective measures, dune on the often mentioned Baker’s Bay if necessary. beach, so popular with boaters and local It was mentioned many times that it is in residents. Although the dune is shallow by the developers interest that the natural some standards, the grasses and vegetation beauty of the area be preserved as that is planted are capturing windblown sand as the underlaying concept that they are sell- nature intended and has already increased ing. the dune height by 18 to 24 inches. The It should be said that 70 acres of the public beach area accessible by law to the Crown and Treasury land is marginal high water mark is often 100 or more feet swamp or narrow beach frontage and is to beyond the daily high tide line. This is true be dedicated as a preserve for public use on both the Atlantic and bay-side beaches. and enjoyment. Further discussions were held at the sales Mr. Ingraham said the marina design and Employees of Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club spoke to the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham site between employees, management and operation is the most advanced in The Ba- about employment opportunities the developer is offering. Shenique Albury with the the FNM politicians. hamas and will be environmentally friendly. microphone is Manager of Environment Affairs who has the power to stop any work that Apparently, there is some consideration The overall development has the potential she feels is damaging to the environment. being given by the developers to using a to provide 100 - 120 more jobs for Baha- He felt that many of the residents con- velopment is the most environmentally con- smaller portion of the Crown and Treasury mians than the 80 - 90 now employed, ac- cerns could be resolved to the satisfaction scious development presently underway in land. cording to Mr. Ingraham. of all. He concluded by stating that this de- the country.
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Residences from $742,500 plus closing costs P.O. Box AB 22275 Treasure Cay, Abaco, Bahamas Phone: 242-365-8500 Fax: 242-365-8501 E-mail: [email protected] Broker Participation Invited www.BahamaBeachClub.com Page 20 The Abaconian June 1, 2006 News of the Cays Voters Rejected White Paper Mostly, objections prevailed and the fi- That’s where Joy’s parents were born and on Harbour Island in 1753 but moved to The White Paper proposed by the Hope nal draft came out at 30 pages. Even then it raised before moving to Nassau. New Plymouth in the early 1800s after the Town Council and tacitly encouraged by appeared to be too intimidating to the few “Dunc” was a man of many skills, she Loyalists came. He died there in 1833. She officials in Nassau was defeated by a mi- persons attending the town meetings. explained. Although he could not read or found out that Lowes were present in The nority of voters on May 15, 16 and 17 in Although discouraged, Mr. Hall expects write, he invented his own communication Bahamas as early as 1730. “There are the settlements of Guana Cay, Man-O-War to continue but will probably confine the code. He was a blacksmith, a ship wrecker, Lowes all over the world,” she says, “in Cay and Elbow Cay, respectively. next attempt to a simpler change to the lo- a boat builder - and taught his sons to man- Australia, in the United States, even in The results were as follows: cal government process. age the family sugar cane plantation. Canada.” Town Yes No Spoiled Those persons attending the meetings in Joy married a Swiss citizen and moved She has been a regular visitor of Green Total each of the three towns seemed to be unani- with him to the United States in 1964. She Turtle Cay over the years where she visits Guana 3 40 1 44 mous that change is needed but 30 pages of now lives in Oregon but will never forget with her cousin, local artist Alton Lowe, Man-O-War 12 48 0 60 change was apparently too intimidating and the islands of her youth. In 1980 she began who is also a descendent of Capt. Gideon Hope Town 58 38 2 98 therefore rejected. to do research on the internet to establish a Lowe. Total 73 126 3 202 Genealogy Expert Joy Lowe- family tree. Eventually, she was able to Had the proposal been accepted locally, Jossi Visits Green Turtle Cay trace the family lineage back nine genera- Please see Cays Page 21 tions to Capt. Gideon Lowe, who was born it would have gone to Nassau to be accepted By Mirella Santillo there by various arms of government. By The Island Roots Heritage Festival is self failing locally, the voters and Council mem- explanatory: it invited people to look for bers are left guessing as to whether the pro- their ancestry and heritage. And that’s just posal would have been accepted by Nassau. what Joy Lowe-Jossi was doing when she Without fanfare, the process was sanc- became a genealogy expert a few years tioned by Nassau. However, there was no back. She was in attendance at the geneal- risk on their part as acceptance locally was ogy booth this year, along with Gail tantamount to a straw vote letting Nassau Saunders, the government’s Heritage Direc- know that changes were wanted at the local tor, and Philip Roberts of New Plymouth. level. The booth displayed information Mrs. Lowe- Chief Councillor Wayne Hall spent hours Jossi had gathered on her own family as well researching the elements that were pre- as tools to help others research the origin of sented. He studied similar small resort towns their names and ancestry. up and down the U.S. coast line. For good As a child in Nassau, Mrs. Lowe-Jossi measure he also investigated small but recalled the visits of her grandfather, Eldred growing resort towns inland. Lowe, when he was in town buying sup- The regulations that worked in other lo- plies for his Abaco store. “He talked about cations and appeared to have merit in Hope his forefathers and the old ways. He was Town and the other two cays were put into the one who kindled my interest in know- a 130-page White Paper and circulated to ing about my ancestors,” she explained. The genealogy booth at the Island Roots Heritage Festival in Green Turtle Cay last month the three towns. Mrs. Lowe-Jossi told the story of her proved to be a popular place where people could find out about their forefathers. Mrs. Meetings took place in these towns over great grandfather, “Dunc” Lowe, who was Joy Lowe-Jossi, who has studied her family roots, was there along with others intereested a two-month period with residents discuss- born on Green Turtle Cay but married a in genealogy. Shown above are Lynn Johnson, Mr. Alton Lowe, Mrs. Jossi, and Ms. Gail ing the merits or objections to the items girl from Marsh Harbour and moved there. Saunders, government’s Heritage Director. proposed. June 1, 2006 The Abaconian Page 21 More News of the Cays
Alton Lowe in 1977 to mark the anniver- special gifts - the flagship of the Conch Sculpture Garden. Cays From Page 22 sary of the event and since 2004 it has be- Republic, a schooner named Wolf, and two The S/V Wolf has been featured in films Key West Connection come a yearly commemoration known as Key West rock roses donated by Benjamin and documentaries and is U.S. Coast Guard the Island Roots Heritage Festival. With the Bruce, a descendent of the Curry family certified for day sails and international voy- Is Kept Alive help of Karen McIntosh, the festival who moved to Key West in 1884. The roses ages. She was sailed by a crew of four, Capt. By Mirella Santillo committee’s president along with Julie will be planted behind the Albert Lowe Mu- Finbar Gittelman, Julie McEnroe, Capt. During the 19th century many Bahami- Farrington, Annabelle Cross and other com- seum in memory of Mr. Bruce’s mother, Marci McNamara and mate Bobby ans from New Plymouth emigrated to Key munity members, it has become a promi- Betty Bruce, and her friend, Ida Baron, who West, sometimes taking their homes with nent cultural event on Abaco. were inspirational in the creation of the Please see Cays Page 29 them, like John Bartlum and William Curry. Key West residents participate in the fes- And after the 1932 hurricane, residents of tival whether they have Bahamian connec- Green Turtle Cay began leaving for the tion or not, and officials of the Conch Re- United States again. So it is no wonder that public are an integral part of the a strong bond exists between the two com- programme. According to Peter Anderson, munities. That bond was consolidated in secretary-general of the Conch Republic, 1976 when Key West and New Plymouth “As long as I am alive, I will never miss became sister cities. this festival.” A celebration was organized by artist This year Key Westers came bearing two
A group of Key Westers attended the Island Roots Heritage Festival, enjoying the special relationship between the Sister Cities, Key West and Green Turtle Cay. They brought with them the S/V Wolf and two rose plants that had come originally from Green Turtle Cay.
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