July 15, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 3
Page 4
Section A
The Abaconian July 15, 2012
July 15, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 5
Central Abaco Toastmasters receive awards at ceremony By Canishka Alexander On June 28, Toastmasters’ Abaco Lighthouse Beamers members and guests were invited to attend the 2011-2012 Night of the Stars Awards Ceremony at the Conch Inn. Distinguished Toastmaster and incoming President for 2012-2013 – Jamaro Thompson – opened the meeting. The first item on the agenda was the Table Topics question, “What gets you hot?” followed by a competition for students involved in the Toastmasters International’s Youth Leadership Program. They were Glenn Fernander of St. Francis de Sales School, DeShane Knowles of Forest Heights Academy and Akeem Adderley of Abaco Central High School. Although they are both students of Agape Christian School, Maxine and Ebony Bass served under the Forest Heights Academy program. The students participated in a Table Topics Competition, and were given two minutes to respond to the topic: “Destined for Greatness.” In her impromptu speech, Bass told the audience that being destined for greatness is something she can feel in her bones and in everything she does. Recalling what they were told by Rich Roberts, who was the guest speaker at her graduation, Bass said they were told to remember the little things instead of only looking at the big
picture. “It’s the little things that make a change,” she said. “I believe the little things are the steps to greatness.” All of the students gave speeches, but it was Maxine Bass who walked away with the prize. They all received certificates for their participation and completion of the Youth Leadership Program. Moving on, Toastmaster Julieth Stuart-McCafferty joined Thompson in distributing awards to the members in what he
said was the first of what would become an annual awards program. The Late Again Award was received by Julieth StuartMcCafferty; the Hot Air Award went to Taryn Russell; the All Smiles Award was given to Bekera Taylor; while the Always Misbehaving Award was bestowed upon Jamaro Thompson. The Ah/Um Award was awarded to Datus Farrington, and Athena Russell was selected as the Table Topics Speaker of the Year. Thompson received another award as the Evaluator of
Above: The Toastmasters Awards Ceremony was held on June 28. From left to right: Julieth Stuart-McCafferty, Glen Fernander, Maxine Bass, DeShane Knowles, Ebony Bass, Akeem Adderley, and Jamaro Thompson.
the Year. The Speaker of the Year Award was granted to Kenisha Cornish. Finally, the Sponsor of the Year Award was also received by Stuart-McCafferty. Perhaps the most coveted of the awards, the Spirit of Excellence Award was accepted by Brittany Smith, who gave a speech entitled “Junkanoo” shortly after receiving her award. It was an engaging speech that spoke to the emotions of her colleagues and reignited their allegiance to their favourite Junkanoo group. Stuart-McCafferty received added praise for her accomplishments. She was awarded as the Toastmaster of the Year, and was recognized for making history as the first area governor outside of Nassau and Freeport for the Family Islands. She has also served as past president of Toastmasters. Additionally, Thompson applauded the 2012-2013 executive team, which is comprised of: Travis McDonald, Sergeant of Arms; Jasmine Curry, Treasurer; Brittany Smith, Secretary; Tamar Roberts, Vice President of Public Relations; Julieth Stuart-McCafferty, Vice President of Membership and Area Governor; Charmaine Bonaby, Vice President of Education; and Jamaro Thompson, President. “One thing I ask is that this coming Please see
Toastmasters Page 6
Page 6
Section A
The Abaconian July 15, 2012
Central Abaco Toastmasters
From Page 5
year be the best ever, that we have lots of fun in Toastmasters, and that we come every week to party, to learn and to set some records,” Thompson instructed. He said it has already been a recordsetting year because for the first time in Area 84, which encompasses Grand Bahama and Abaco, Abaco is leading Division I. Next year, he looks to have the No.1 club for District 47 and among all the Toastmasters Clubs around the world. Before the ceremony ended, Toastmasters were asked to attend the annual Toastmasters International Conference, which will be held on July 14 in Grand Bahama. For those interested in attending the meetings locally, Toastmasters Abaco Lighthouse Beamers – Club 01314025 meets at 6:30 p.m. every second and fourth Thursday of the month at the Conch Inn.
Rotary Club holds 2012 turnover dinner By Mirella Santillo The Rotary Club of Abaco held its turnover dinner on June 30. The Jib Room was the venue for the function which attracted many of the club members and their families. Past President, Jo-Ann Bradley passed the torch of power for the year 2012-13 to the new President, Dwayne Wallas. He in turn briefly explained the
philosophy he would follow during his tenure and introduced his new board members who all received a pin attesting to their position within the club. As a fundraiser, the board members decided to offer blackjack and poker to whoever wanted to try their luck. Soon the two blackjack tables and the poker table became crowded. Players could buy chips and play as long as they wanted to. Chips did not have a monetary value, but instead were traded in for prizes. Many walked away with bottles of wine and necklaces among others.
The function grossed close to three thousand dollars. The net profit will be used for club projects.
Below: Past President of the Abaco Rotary Club, Jo-Ann Bradley, initiates Dwayne Wallas as the new president of the club for the 2012-2013 year. The Club held its changeover dinner function at the Jib Room in Marsh Harbour on June 30. The evening included dinner, drinks and a casino to raise money for the clubs different charity projects.
Will Bethel fundraiser rallies community By Tim Roberts Many persons came out in support of a variety of events, which included a fun run/walk, a softball game, a cook out and an auction, held to assist with the ongoing medical expenses of the late Will Bethel. The day’s events began with a walk/ run at 7am and featured prizes for several categories. Adrian Whylly was first to finish followed by Brent Cartwright for the men. Linda Leffler finished first for the women and young Tanner Cartwright placed first in the Junior category. Ted Pearce, one of the organizers, said they had a good response to the run with some running and quite a few walking. He is hopeful that this can become an annual event in memory of Will Bethell. In the afternoon a cook-out was held at New Vision Ministries, the church Will attended, serving up hamburgers and hotdogs from the grill. They also had a variety of snacks and treats along with conch salad and fritters. During the afternoon persons were able to bid on a number of silent auction items and later that evening they held a live auction which included weekend stays at local resorts and inns, art and jewelry, and even baby sitting and carpentry services among a variety of items. Young and old braved the heat of the afternoon and started up a fun softball game. Please see
Bethel
Page 7
Page 8
Section A
The Abaconian July 15, 2012
From the Editor's Desk
We recently hit the fever pitch of summer. With the week-long, islandwide Regatta leading into the festivities of our nation’s Independence a lot of activities have kept us busy. And we’ve had such nice weather for it, too. It is nice to see people from communities all over this island get together. That’s one reason I love the summer. With so many parties and events, such as the Independence celebrations behind us and the Sail Away and opening of Crawfish Season ahead of us, it allows a lot of us to get out there and see our friends and our beautiful island. As long as we don’t go overboard, we all have great times. The Regatta is an incredible experience for both Bahamians and locals. With our gorgeous and protected waters we have the perfect setting for the sport. But beyond the competition and actual sailing, Regatta time allows us to collectively experience the joy our islands and waters present. From Green Turtle to Hope Town, everyone involved with the Regatta pulls together to create a unique event that showcases what makes Abaco so special. And there are a lot of special things about Abaco. And there are a lot of special things about our country. Our country, for those of you still groggy and sunburned from the party on Fiddle Cay, recently celebrated our thirty ninth anniversary of Independence. A huge accomplishment by
The Abaconian Bradley M. Albury Editor-in-Chief AB 20213 Marsh Harbour Abaco, The Bahamas
any measure. An accomplishment I hope we don’t begin bury beneath layers of political infighting or pompous, stiff ceremony. It’s a joyous thing, wonderful to behold and experience. So far, I think, we have approached each anniversary of our Independence with the appropriate amount of awe, respect and revelry. I just pray the generations that follow us are able to see Independence Day not just as a big party, but also as a statement to the character of this nation. I know a few who will scoff at my statement; but this country, this archipelago of artists, dreamers and craftsmen has a character so great many others would break apart on these rocky shores like those Spanish galleons and castaway pirates of old. We are so scattered in these shallow seas, but we are also so together. As a people we are marching into our future together. It is an incredible notion to think that, with so many things out there to pull us apart we have remained so unified. It, again, is a joyous thing to behold and experience. As an independent nation we are still so young; with growing pains and strife we’ll have to overcome. But I do believe we will, because it’s in our character and we must. Right now, as a nation, we are night swimming. Yes, there are treacherous things in the dark, moonlit waters. Things with stingers and teeth and bad intentions meaning to drag us down. And we often won’t be able to see them until we’ve experienced their sting or feel the frightful current of their circling motions. But we’re a country of strong swimmers. And we will always find shore as long as we help our fellow countrymen and women find their right stroke. But while we’re out to sea in these true, independent Bahamian waters, let’s not forget all that makes night swimming so beautiful: the night is ours. As Bahamians, as Abaconians, as men and women from Coopers Town, Marsh Harbour, Sandy Point or Crown Haven; these waters are ours.
Abaco’s most complete newspaper.
2022 Aero Circle New Smyrna Beach FL. 32168
8,000 copies Published twice monthly
Logo Photo Credit: Tuppy Weatherford
Reporters/Freelance Contributors: Canishka Alexander, Samantha Evans, Jennifer Hudson, Timothy Roberts, Mirella Santillo, Rashida Murray, Lee Pinder
Free at over 100 Abaco locations from Grand Cay to Moore’s Is. Subscription rates: $20.00 - Abaco $25 - other Bahamas (One Year) $45.00 USA $65 Canada - airmail $95.00 UK, Europe & Caribbean - surface Phone 242-367-3200 FAX 242-367-3677 AbaconianNews@gmail.com
Subscribe NOW
// Night Swimming And the stars are shining. And the moon is out. And the sea is warm. And it is beautiful. This country is ours and it is a marvel of both human spirit and natural wonder. Not many can trace a history as romantic, heartbreaking and rugged as ours. But we’ve survived, as improbably as a country of seven hundred islands can, and we will continue. There will be struggles as we continue out to sea, so we must always be our own advocates to raise the standards for our youth and for ourselves. We must find our path indicated by our own personal North Star and follow it. We cannot allow ourselves to be dragged by currents into depths that our country can’t stand. That is why our Independence celebration is important. It should
remind us of where we have come from and it should act like a bright star illuminating our way forward. We should enjoy this summer for all our many blessings. We are not a perfect country and we don’t live in perfect communities. But that doesn’t mean we have to simply stay afloat and be afraid of what goes bump in the night. Unless we start swimming we will drift. We need to remember we’re strong swimmers who’ve bent our backs to hurricanes and stood tall and who have consistently shown the potential for greatness. So we must swim forward, together.
Upcoming Events •July 16 - July 20: FRIENDS Summer Camp •July 19: D-Mack @ Sea Spray •July 23 - July 27: FRIENDS Summer Camp Week Two •August 2: Stileet @ Sea Spray •August 5: Beauties at Brunch @ Abaco beach resort •August 8: Sailaway •Help The Abaconian Fill Our Calendar: 242-367-3200
Why subscribe? The Abaconian will keep you informed on issues such as: • Resort & hotel development • Improvements to (and disrepair of) infrastructure • Important Utility Updates • Community events • Fishing, boating & sporting activities • New business ventures • Immigration, taxes or duty changes • Changes in airline service • Changes to laws and regulations • Actions by local government
Order The Abaconian Today Name Address Address City St. Postal code + Country E-mail or Tel # 24 issues - US$ or B$ Above subscription is a gift from: $45 USA via 3 rd Class If you want to renew this gift next year, $25 Bahamas via surface please give us your address below $20 to Abaco US$65 Canada via Airmail US$95 UK, Europe Surface Mail to: 2022 Aero Circle, New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32168 or: P.O. Box AB 20213, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas
WE NOW EXCEPT MASTER CARD/VISA NAME ON CARD:
Master Card
CARD NUMBER:
EXP DATE:
SIGNATURE:
AMOUNT PAID:
Visa
JUNE 2012
July 15, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 9
Letters to the Editor A complaint about boat boarding Dear Editor; My name is Dr. Robert Thousand Jr., my wife is Jane Thousand. We have owned property in Treasure Cay Bahamas for over 10 years and have been making annual trips to the Abaco’s for race week for many years. This year our departure out of Fort Pierce on Monday, June 11th was later than planned due to mechanical problems with a fractured raw water hose on our boat engine and had to return to port for repairs, which brought us to a late arrival on the Bahamas’ Bank on Tuesday, June 12th, around 5:30pm at Matenella. We then proceeded to the remote island of Great Sale, where we arrived at 12:30am. We made a midnight water instrument approach to an anchorage dropped the hook and hit the bunk. After a nights rest, we arose early on Wed, June 13th and sailed toward New Plymouth to clear customs. As we were about 2 miles north of Green Turtle we were intercepted by the Bahamian Defense Force on boat P49. We were boarded by three recruits and asked if we had cleared customs. I replied “no, we were heading that way when you stopped us”. We were asked if we had any weapons on board and I replied, “Yes. They have been declared every year for the past 10 years”. I then produced last year’s customs clearance form with the serial numbers of my weapons. We were then told that an extensive search would be performed and asked if I would comply, to which I answered, “Yes Sir”. I produced everything and anything they asked for. And after an hour and a half search was performed, the recruits seemed to be satisfied with the results. We were then ordered to follow the vessel P49 to the government dock in New Plymouth. Upon both vessels being tied to the New Plymouth’s dock, a Lieutenant from a 49 boarded the boat and began a 30 minute lecture on my wrongful behavior. He asked me if I had been fishing and I told him, “yes, and I caught two barracuda”. He asked me if I had cleared customs and I replied that I had not and I was heading to New Plymouth when we were intercepted. He explained that I should have cleared at Walkers Cay or Spanish Cay prior to Green Turtle since they were closer. He began a 30 minute ranting and raving about how I did not love my country because I did not have the American flag up and no quarantine flag up. I was under the assumption the yellow quarantine flag was to be raised when you where in port. Both flags were actually setting out on my counter, prior to this encounter, to be raised. Please note that I am a US Army Veteran and served during the Vietnam War years and took great offense at his disrespectful assumption, but
I withheld my comments and simply answered “yes sir, no sir”. I did not want to provoke him as he continued his verbal chastising lecture on the laws of the seas and Bahamas. I respectfully answered all of his questions and he issued me a Warning Citation, which I will enclose, but as he was departing he said “take the fish and the rods and reels,” the recruits then took my fishing rods and reels and cooler with the fish. The new Penn Senator Gold reels 30W and 30 reels and rods they were a gift from my son for Father’s Day (and held a $2000.00 value). The packaged fish I caught in international water before I got to the Bahaman bank, which by the way was dated on the baggy the day before ( I always date the fish I catch with a magic marker on the zip lock) along with the two barracuda I caught for my lawn man and my cooler. If the citation was a “Warning”, I’m compelled to consider the property that was seized from my vessel as an unauthorized and possibly illegal fine. My family has been coming to the Bahamas for 30 years and I have promoted tourism and supported the people of the Bahamas for many years. My son is a doctor as well and we were invited to deliver a lecture to the first Bahamian Dental Society meeting in Nassau in November 2010. I am president of the Bahamian Junkanoo Organization in St. Augustine and two years ago facilitated a Bahamian celebration in St. Augustine which included flying 30 Bahamians to St. Augustine for the festivities. My wife and I personally drove our friends from the Bahamas around for three days in two buses. Furthermore we have been a financial supporter of a fouryear scholarship program for an Abaconian girl attending Flagler College in St. Augustine who just completed her second year. During our more than 30 years of travel to the Bahamas with my family, we have had several notable humanitarian experiences which occurred during our crossings. These include the rescue of five non-English speaking Jamaicans and a Bahamian, 4 years ago whom my wife and I rescued 30 miles offshore on their capsized boat. They were in great danger drowning and had been floating in the ocean for 24 hours when we picked them up and sailed them into the Freeport immigration without incident. The lieutenant from P49 stated that vessels traveling the Bahamas bank should clear at Walkers Cay and Spanish Cay rather than Green Turtle since they are on the route before Green Turtle. This information should be made clear to visiting vessels. If it is correct, I feel we need to inform the race committee that is in charge of the 100 boat fleet that will be arriving in the Bahamas in the coming week for race week that Green Turtle, New Plymouth, is not a legal port of entry if you are traversing the Bahamas Bank form Florida.
I am not requesting an apology from the Lieutenant from P49 but, being in the military myself, do feel he was out of order in his actions of taking my rods and reels. And if allowed to continue as such will subject the respected Bahamian Defense Force and Customs Department to a reputation that may be detrimental to tourism economy. The visiting pleasure vessels who patronize the Bahamian businesses are a large part of the lifeline of the out islands economy. What I do request is that my two rods and reels that were requisitioned, be returned to me. It is a “Warning Citation” that was issued which was escalated to a stiff fine of $2000.00 equivalent to the value of my rods and reels with the seizure of my father’s day gift. We look forward to another great sailing race week in the Abacos next week, joining our friends from the Bahamas and America. I will continue to patronize the facilities and help support their economy through commerce and tourism during these economically depressed times that we are all experiencing. I am a member of the St. Augustine Pilots Association and enjoyed the fellowship shared with the Tourist Ministry when they visited our airport a few weeks ago. Sincerely, Dr. Robert and Jane Thousand Jr.
Cynicism vs reality Dear Editor; I have many times been accused of being the most cynical person when it comes to Bahamian Governance. However I refer to myself as a realist; and not negative at all. I also promised to make no criticism of the new administration for at least six months, in order to allow the political ducks to be placed in that proverbial row. I will now break this promise; which, (thank goodness), places me outside the realm of political aspirations. I will refer to several previously made statements in the local press. 1) In the Tribune of Tuesday July 3 Tribune, A5, The Minister of Agriculture A. Grey gave a short statement in which he essentially said that..... Farmers and potential farmers need to come forward in order to access the one million dollars ($1m) now available, in order to address the country's high unemployment rate; and reduce food imports by approximately 20%. The preferred way to do this would be by establishing large operations that employ 50 –60 people. The Government (GOB) will level the playing field between foreign and Bahamian farmers by financial grants, and increasing duty rates. He used as an example the
chicken farm on Abaco which is 'dying' and needs assistance. 2) In previous statements 2 of the largest crop producers in the country had separately stated that access to the private markets, and high energy and labour costs were their major constraints to making a profit. The North Andros farmers spokesman stated that promises made by the major fresh produce handlers in the country were not followed by action, and that the government exchange limited its individual farm intake, and was extremely slow to pay for received product. The operator of Lucayan Tropical, greenhouse producer, opined that the high cost of energy, and, the high cost of labour were the main constraints to the operation turning a profit. Taking these statements at face value I am of the opinion that minster Grey has not yet taken the time to examine the local constraints on agricultural production, see what the causes are, and come up with a realistic solution that can establish a viable alternative input to the economy of the country. As has been the case with every previous administration no realistic evaluation of farming decline over the years has taken place; even though hundreds of agricultural public servants sit in, (air conditioned), offices all day long farming paper and making statements with the full knowledge that they will come to ought. I will list some of the areas of concern which must be addressed. a) Small businesses create full employment for the family unit, and beyond; and are capable of making the most significant contribution to the country economy if allowed the freedoms from interference necessary to develop. This includes farming. Red tape, lack of appropriate infrastructures, and political interference are the biggest constraints to small business establishment in the country today. They are also the simplest to solve, without financial investment by the local government, I might add. b) Genuine access to land. Farmers going into business need access to capital and land. The simplest way for GOB to assist in this would be to allow farming operations to purchase the land over the lease period. This would then give farmers access to private capital directly for the needed investment in their operations. The present reliance on politicians waving a million dollars around does not cut the mustard. c) Graded and level playing fields. One of the major constraints to producers in both agriculture and industry is the very high cost of the required imported inputs. High customs tariffs need to be Please see
Letters
Page 9
Page 12
Section A
The Abaconian July 15, 2012
July 15, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 13
Page 16
Section A
The Abaconian July 15, 2012
Cultural Explosion ushers in 39th Anniversary of Independence on Abaco By Samantha Evans “The Bahamas United in Love and Service” was the theme under which this 39th Anniversary of Independence was held across the Bahamas. Like in the capital and on other islands of the Bahamas, independence activities began on Abaco on Saturday July 7 with a Fun, Run, Walk. The official All Abaco Independence Cultural Explosion took place on Monday evening July 9 beginning at 6:30pm at the BAIC Park in Don Mackay Blvd. The Cultural Explosion was divided into three categories: Youth Jam, Gospel Hour, and Artists Explosion. The Youth Jam began after 7pm, as multitudes of young people took to the stage to share their talent with those present. Selections ranged from solos by Ashton Sawyer, musical selections by Celena Russell and Lady G, and dance medleys by Abaco Supreme Drill Team and North Abaco Dancers. All of these youth were fantastic but the most unique performance in this section was from the Abaco Supreme Drill team that danced and stepped to Bahamian music which was so dynamic that they received a standing ovation at the end of their performance. In the Gospel section, the performances were even better as singers from all ages sang praises and thanks
to God for his blesses over the Bahamas for these thirty-nine years. Some of the performers were Kelia McKinney, First Assembly Dance Team, Zion Baptist Praise Team, Lydia Bodamer and Judy Dawkins. The finale for the Gospel Hour was by The Bahamas Dance Theatre and Wesley College with its dance troop of twenty-three members strong. The focus of their performances was on the challenges faced in the country, political uprising, development and infrastructure and improvements in examination results. The songs chosen for their performances were a combination of Bahamian and secular songs and lullabies. The dancers also paid homage to the Women’s Suffrage Movement on their fiftieth anniversary celebrations in the Bahamas. In the Artist Section, T-Time Rake and Scrape Band performed several of their original songs such as “Crab Soup and Dough” before Abaco’s home grown talent in the form of Geno-D exploded onto the stage accompanied by the Impact Band. Geno-D sang a medley of famous Rake and Scrape Songs such as “Brown Girl in the Ring,” “Run Na Mama,” “Angel,” “Amen,” among others then he went on to sing some dance songs such as “Abaco People,” “We Jammin’,” and “Staggerly” to get the crowd in a party mood.
As he performed the rain came down but that did not spoil the fun or festivities planned for the evening. The crowd kept on dancing, singing, and waving their flags. Once the rain ended, the crowd made their way to the street for the Royal Bahamas Police Force March Pass along with the Defense Force Officers and Rangers and Immigration Officers. Even though the parade was shorter than those seen in years past, it was still a great performance as some of the officers from the Police Marching Band in
Nassau took part and performed a few of their March Pass tricks and dance moves which thrilled the anxious crowd of onlookers. Right before the Flag Raising and National Anthem, Senator Gary Sawyer inspected the parade of uniformed officers and spoke briefly to a few of them as he passed. After the singing of the National Anthem, Senator Sawyer led the cutting of the cake. He was accompanied by Senior Island Administrator Please see
Independent Page 18
Above: Senator Gary Sawyer was present for the Independence Anniversary festivities.
July 15, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 17
Page 18
Section A
Independent
The Abaconian July 15, 2012
From Page 16
Cephas Cooper and his wife. While they were cutting the cake, fireworks filled in sky in a rainbow of colors of blue, red, green, and yellow. The moderators for the event were Abaco Central High School Valedictorian and Salutatorian Barbrianna Dawkins and Damara McIntosh respectively.
The Mistress of Ceremony was Gaynell Rolle. Vendors were also on hand selling Bahamian cuisine, drinks, and snacks all night. This event was planned and executed by the Independence Committee which was made up of persons from the public and private sectors. Below: Senior Island Administrator Cephas Cooper cuts a Bahamian themed slice of cake in celebration of Independence.
98.7 is new radio station
were male except for one. They are being processed by the Department of Immigration and after they receive necessary medical treatment will be sent to Nassau for further processing.
Earlier this month 98.7, or Y98, launched its broadcast in Abaco. For the time being the station will operate as a rebroadcast of Nassau’s Y98 station. There are plans, however, to eventually accompany the Abaco broadcast with a local studio to provide Abaco-specific content. The station plays a mix of soft rock and contemporary hits. The tower is located centrally in Marsh Harbour.
North Abaco Summer Festival to be held in Treasure Cay
Illegal immigrants caught near Sandy Point By Tim Roberts Acting on information received, Sandy Point Police captured 27 Haitian migrants in the area of the Hole in the Wall road just after seven in the morning on July 11. After receiving reports of suspected migrants coming out of the bush the Police investigated the area finding seven male and two female Haitian nationals. They appeared to have been dehydrated and were later taken for medical treatment in Sandy Point. While Police were on scene another five Haitian migrants drove to the area to meet the persons already in custody and they were subsequently arrested as well. At about 11:45am were able to capture another thirteen migrants all of which
Enjoy great dining at Angler’s Restaurant or casual fare at our famous pool bar both at the water’s edge in Marsh Harbour
Karaoke
Tuesday night by the Pool Bar starting at 8 pm.
Rake n’ Scrape Dance with “Brown Tip” every Friday night starting at 8:30 pm.
Calypso Night
“Clint Sawyer” LIVE every Saturday night at 8:30 pm.
Stephen Colebrook
Enjoy Stephen’s versatile piano music and vocals Wednesday through Sunday. Contact us at 367-2158
www.AbacoBeachResort.com
Press Release The North Abaco Summer Festival Committee is pleased to announce the hosting of the 7th Annual North Abaco Summer Festival & Power Boat Race from July 20th until July 22nd, 2012 at the Treasure Cay Public Beach in Treasure Cay, Abaco. Making a splash at this year’s festival will be the Jet Ski Races, the Small Skiff Races and the Kayak Races, along with other competitions and beach activities that will be fun and exciting for all. Other components of the festival include: the best in Bahamian entertainment, a great selection of food and craft vendors and the Bahamas Shootout Golf Tournament that takes place at the Treasure Cay Beach Resort & Marina
Want to advertise or sponsor a section? Call The Abaconian: 242-367-3200
July 15, 2012
The Abaconian
Crime Report Shop breaking At 6:10am on July 5, 2012, a 43 year old male of Forest Drive, Dundas Town, Abaco and owner of Local Convenient Store located Forest Drive, Dundas Town reported that sometime between 11:00pm on July 4, 2012 and 5:40am on July 5, 2012, some unknown person/s broke into his store through a northern door and stole his black briefcase containing two HP laptops valued at $1000.00, one black briefcase valued at $60.00, and two passports belonging to himself and his son. Police action requested. Officers from the Central Detective Unit visited the scene. Investigation continues. Suspect arrested At 5:45pm on 6th July, D/Sgt. 2377 Farquharson arrested the suspect a 19 year old male of New Providence and Spring City, Abaco referencing this matter. Investigation continues.
Shop breaking & Stealing At 7:54am on 6th July, 2012, a 26 year old female of Pelican Shores, Marsh Harbour and c/o a local repair Car Centre reported that sometime between 11:00am on 5/7/12 and 7:55am on 6/7/12 some unknown person/s broke and entered the store and stole four chrome rims, three tires, one black fan, one case of soda and hot dogs. Entry was gained by prying open the front door. Police action requested. Officers visited the scene and discovered that the suspect in this incident is known to the Police Department. On 7th July, 2012, a concerned citizen came to M.H.P.S. and handed over a set of rims and three tires and stated that he found the same in the bushes in Dundas Town, Abaco. The exhibits were shown to the complainant who positively identified the same as stolen from the store. Suspect Arrested: On 8th July, 2012, a 18 year old male of Murphy Town, Abaco was arrested reference to this matter. Investigation continues.
Armed Robbery At 9:35pm on 6th July, 2012, a 26 year old employee of a local liquor reported that at 9:30pm while leaving the store along with her co-worker, they were both robbed by two men dressed in masks, dark clothing and armed with a handgun. The
culprits discharged several shots in the air and stole their handbags containing an assortment of personal effects including cellular phones, bank cars, earrings and personal cash. The culprits made good their escape in a southern direction towards The Mudd, Abaco. Police action requested. Officer of the M.H.P.S. responded immediately. Investigation continues.
Assault At 11:00pm on 3rd July, 2012, a 19 year old female of Dundas Town, Abaco reported that while at work at a local restaurant located in Marsh Harbour she was attacked by the bar tender, a fellow employee, who threw ice in her face and threw her up against the bar causing injuries. Police action requested. Investigation continues.
Arson reported At 3:45am on 7th July, 2012, a female resident of The Mudd, Abaco, reported that there was a house on fire in the Mudd, Marsh Harbour in the area of the Seven days Adventist Church. Police assistance requested. Fire Officers, Volunteer Fire Officers and Police Officers were dispatched to the scene and were able to extinguish the fire. A total of three houses were destroyed. The owner of the resident a 25 year old female of The Mudd, Marsh Harbour came to M.P.H.S. and reported that she had an altercation with her ex-boyfriend of Marsh Harbour who threatened to burn her residence. Suspect Arrested Officers of the Central detective Unit arrested the suspect in this matter. He as charged for this offence.
Section A
Page 19
Burglary
Stealing from a Vehicle
At 10:42pm on 7th July, 2012, a 44 year old male of Marsh Harbour, Abaco reported that while driving to his residence, he observed three masked males dressed in dark clothing, fled from his residence into nearby bushes. At the time he left one of his friends in the house who stated that the three culprits gained entry through an eastern door. He confronted them and they fled the scene on foot. Police action requested. Officers visited the scene. Investigation continues. Suspect arrested On 8th July, 2012, a 47 year of male of the Mudd, Abaco was arrested reference to this matter. Investigation continues.
At 12:15am on 6th July, 2012, a 35 year old of Murphy Town, Abaco, reported that at about 12:10am same date when she returned from Hope Town to the Ferry Dock located Marsh Harbour she discovered that some unknown person/s broke into her 1997 Honda Accord by smashing her front passenger glass and stole her C.D. player. Police action requested. Investigation continues.
Causing Damages
At 8:20am on 8th July, 2012, a 27 year old male of The Mudd, Abaco, reported that sometime around 11:00pm on same date while at his residence he was alerted by a loud noise. When he checked, he noticed that a white van had crashed into the front section of his wooden structure home causing damages to the door and front section. The driver fled the scene leaving the vehicle wedged in the house. Estimated cost of damages are $700.00. Police action was requested. Officers of the M.H.P.S. visited the scene and found a 1990 Ford Winstar in the house as reported. Suspect arrested On 8th July, 2012, a 47 year old male of The Mudd, Abaco was arrested in reference to this matter. Investigation continues.
Assault of a Police Officer, Threats of Death, Drunk and Disorderly Behavior, Resisting Arrest and Disorderly Behaviour in a Police Station At 4:46pm on Friday 6th July, 2012, an officer from the Treasure Cay Police Station reported that while executing his duties, a 34 year old male of Coopers Town, Abaco, Assaulted him by raising his hand towards him. As a result, Officer Boyd arrested the accused who resisted and shouted obscenities. The accused, who appeared to be drunk, was taken to Coopers Town Police Station where he verbally threatened the arresting officers. He was further cautioned about disorderly behavior in a police station.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon At 12:30am on 8th July, 2012, a 30 year old male of Murphy Town, Abaco reported that at 12:15am while at his residence in Murphy Town, some unknown person/s fired off gunshots at his residence through a southern bedroom window. Police action requested. The scene was visited by officers of the Central Detective Unit. Investigation continues.
Open Year Round
Boat House Restaurant White Sound, Elbow Cay
Bahamian Breakfast - Sat. & Sun.
Come lounge at The Helm, our indoor bar Happy Hour Daily 5 pm - 6 pm
Enjoy a delicious dinner with us Sea Spray will pick up from Hope Town
LIVE MUSIC by: Brown Tip Rake N Scrape Every Sunday 6:30 pm - 9 pm FULL SERVICE MARINA
• 60 Deepwater Slips • Fuel/ Oil/ Bait/ Ice • Fresh Water • Garbonzo Reef Bar
WATERFRONT VILLAS
• One, two & three bedroom units • On the ocean & harbour • Full kitchen/air cond/sat TV For local transporation to Sea Spray call VHF 16 or 366-0065
email : info@seasprayresort.com www.seasprayresort.com
July 15, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 21
Business Entrepreneur Watch Gracie’s Boutique and Variety Store By Samantha Evans Grace Knowles has opened Gracie’s Boutique and Variety Store in the Corner Value Building. She opened the store on June 22. This store specializes in men and women’s clothing, fragrances, underwear and socks, accessories, bags, work and church wear, including shirt and tie sets for men. She carries a full line of urban wear from small to 6X. She also has linen outfits for kids. In the near future, she will be bringing in a few linen suits for adults so that she can test the Abaco market. She plans to outfit weddings and proms too. According to Grace, she has the best prices on name brand fragrances in town, which means that her prices are comparable to those in the US. Since she is an Ardyss Distributor, she plans to get into their healthcare line so that she can assist people with natural health. Her store is open Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Rihanna’s Kids Fashion By Samantha Evans Rihanna’s Kids Fashion opened for business on May 21 in Suite 204 of Dove Plaza. This store specializes in kids clothing and footwear from toddler sizes up to pre-teens. In boys clothing they carry polo brand tops and name brand pants, and all fashionable girls wear. They also carry accessories, gift baskets for babies, underwear, character stuffed toys, church clothing, and christening outfits. In the coming months, owner Alude Dumercy, will be bringing in school supplies such as bags, books, socks, and shoes. The store is open Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Bahamas’ potential in the yachting industry Presnted by:
Glitter Me Dazzle Studio of Make Up & Photography By Samantha Evans This unique store is a beauty salon and photography store in one. Owner, Omeece Culmer, has a passion for both forms of art. She has been doing hair since she was a teenager but took a break from it and focused on photography for the past four years. Now that she has mastered both, she opened her business called Glitter Me Dazzle Studio of Make Up & Photography located in Marsh Harbour across from MARCO and between Abaco Motor Mall and Betty K. Agencies. On the salon side of the business, she specializes in weaving, braiding, and styling female hair only. She also sells hair including Indian Remi and Brazilian Remi, fashion accessories, bags, hats, sunglasses, earrings, a variety of makeup sets and supplies, clutches, change purses, and hair accessories. On the photography side of the business she specializes in glamor shots, airbrushing, makeovers, weddings, christenings, and event photography. Photos can be taken in the studio or on location. She is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Culmer sees beauty salon clients by appointment and as walk-ins but photography clients must make an appointment. She can be contacted at 425-8626.
Entrepreneur Watch is a feature The Abaconian publishes because we believe in supporting entrepreneurs and community business. If you know of an entrepreneur just setting out in their business please contact us at abaconiannews@gmail. com or 367-3200. If you are an established business and would like to sponsor the Entrepreneur Watch we would love to hear from you as well.
The Bahamas has long been known – globally known -- as a premier hotel and cruise ship destination. Without question, the Bahamas should also be known as a major hub for the Caribbean luxury yacht industry. Ft Lauderdale, Miami, West Palm Beach, and the southern Caribbean islands (like St. Maarten) have reaped massive benefits of this growing industry. Why not the Bahamas? Just imagine, with billions of dollars passing through the waters of the Bahamas each year, either heading to a premier yacht show, or yacht owners using Bahamian ship-yard facilities, and with yachts stationed for six months or more at Bahamian docks, the Bahamas could become a global center of the yachting industry. The Bahamas offers ideal opportunities for yacht sales, yacht management and chartering. Yacht registration, especially of American boats, should also be a growing – thriving – source of income. (This has certainly been true for small island countries like the Caymen Islands and British Virgin Islands.) Given its rich, unrivaled yachting history, its natural beauty, its prime location, its varied attractions, the Bahamas should be one of the main yachting destinations in the world. All that may be needed for this to become a reality is the right focus and the vital assistance from the Bahamian government. The government needs a strategic game plan that will help transform the country into a major yachting destination in this region. The financial rewards could be dramatic, enormous – and beneficial to virtually every Bahamian. At the heart of this opportunity is the simple fact that other countries cannot compete against the attractions of our islands, our marine life, the spectacular beauty of our waters. Moreover, the crucial proximity to the USA is a prime advantage when it comes to transforming the Bahamas into a yachting powerhouse. And our airports, with flight service from many countries, make it possible – probable -- that the Bahamas can emerge, in a
very short time, as a global center of the yachting industry. Nassau’s new international airport is the finest in the region; Odyssey offers equally superb service for all private jets. Of course, many luxury yachts already take advantage of Bahamian waters and our unspoiled islands. Florida-based boats often spend a full week in the Exuma Cays, or Eleuthera, at Abaco, Nassau, or near our many smaller, equally beautiful, islands. No wonder that major yacht management companies like International Yacht Collections in Ft. Lauderdale are heavily marketing these locations in the Bahamas to the yacht charter community. IYC clients and captains constantly promote the islands and the extraordinary yachting experience available in Bahamian waters. It is significant that yacht owners have increasingly begun stationing their yachts in the Bahamas, with some owners hiring Bahamian captains on a full time basis. Marinas like Albany, Atlantis, Valentines and Cape Eluethera have opened the door to this luxury yacht clientele by providing upscale dockage and amenities. Still, there is no reason why the Bahamas cannot be the primary yachting destination in this part of the world. This can become a reality if certain aspects of the yachting industry are more effectively put in place. As an example, the Bahamas needs more marinas capable of servicing the largest yachts (180ft and larger). Most of the mega-yachts currently have to go to the cruise ship dock in Nassau or anchor offshore while cruising in the Bahamas. Additionally, opening the Yacht Registry is a critical necessity. Many yacht owners would certainly take advantage of this service. Bahamian corporate and banking laws (coupled with the proximity to the USA) make this registry issue a truly golden opportunity. Remember, Bahamian corporate and banking laws are as inviting as those of any other Caribbean nation. Clearly, a better promoted and Please see
Yachting
Page 22
Page 24
Section A
The Abaconian July 15, 2012