November 1, 2012
VOLUME 20
NUMBER 21
The Abaconian
Section A
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NOVEMBER 1ST, 2012
Abaco endures Sandy Monster storm brings heavy flooding and deceptively long eye
By Timothy Roberts Hurricane Sandy may be gone but certainly won’t be forgotten anytime soon by Abaco residents as she leaves behind significant flood damage to many communities across Abaco but thankfully no loss of life. Tropical storm force winds began midway through Thursday, October 25 and the center of the storm started affecting Abaco (near Sandy Point) as early as about 2 a.m. Friday morning and did not relent until the early morning hours of Sunday, October 28. Fortunately, as Hurricane Sandy approached Category 2 the storm began to lose strength and by the time the eye crossed central Abaco sustained winds were confirmed to be about 85 mph with gusts recorded as high as 110 mph. Still the massive sized storm battered coastal settlements for close to 48 hours, and while it caused very little physical harm to structures, it made up for it with flood damage. A resident of Sandy Point said that while Sandy was not as strong Hurricane Sandy slammed Abaco with high winds and high water on October 25. The weekend-long storm left several communities in distress as water apparently receded only to surge back hours later catching many off guard. Above: a rescue operation in Marsh Harbour requires a boat to get across what is normally a dry road in a landlocked community.
Please see
Sandy
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North Abaco elects Curry Gov’t delegation observes damage from hurricane
On October 15 North Abaco held their by-election. After weeks of campaigning, rallies and controversy the political carosel stopped spinning. Renardo Curry, for the PLP, came out with the most votes and is the new MP for North Abaco. For more see page 2.
Above: District Sup. of Police, Noel Curry, directs onlookers passing by a grounded boat in Fox Town. The Prime Minister along with other government officials toured some of the more heavily damaged areas on Abaco. By Canishka Alexander Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry Christie and his delegation toured North Abaco on Oct.29 to view the impact of Hurricane Sandy on several communities there. The Category 2 hurricane delivered 36 hours of wind accompanied by storm surges. The group made their first stop in Fox Town where a fishing boat belonging to Grovenor Russell was found landlocked in nearby bushes after winds and waves car-
ried it ashore. A few men busied themselves trying to free the boat well into the afternoon. Adjacent to the boat rescue was the residence of Tamantha Castello, a primary school teacher at Cooper’s Town Primary. She said when the treacherous waters raced ashore on the night of Oct.26 she was all alone and had to run for cover as the sea stormed through her house. Please see
Damages
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The Abaconian November 1, 2012
October 15 wraps up election By Timothy Roberts Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) candidate Renardo Curry defeated Free National Movement (FNM) candidate Greg Gomez on May 15, capturing the seat that was an FNM stronghold for over two decades. “This is a magnificent victory,” Prime Minister Perry Christie said during a mini-victory rally at Curry’s Murphy Town headquarters that night shortly after it became clear that Curry would be declared the winner. Curry received 2,367 votes, Gomez received 1,513 votes and Bahamas Constitution Party (BCP) candidate Ali McIntosh 7 votes, according to the unofficial results from the Parliamentary Registration Department. In the May 7 general election, Curry lost to Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham by 379 votes. Curry received 132 more votes during the by-election than Mr. Ingraham did in the general election. Christie said Curry’s turn-around was astonishing. “We nearly tripled the numbers. That’s… a statement. We came in strength and people saw a strong PLP team. We had a strong message, a message of hope,” Mr. Christie said. “They keep underestimating me. Every time they do that we give them this,” he said, punching his hands to demonstrate blows. Christie added that yesterday’s win was the icing on the cake for the PLP. The
party won 29 of 38 seats at the general election. With the North Abaco win, the PLP now holds 30 seats in the House of Assembly. Christie said he will reveal Curry’s position in the government sometime next week. He gave no further information but emphasized that Curry’s will play a very important role in his government. As of press time, no official word as to his position has been released. “We are going to show the people of North Abaco why he was the right choice,” Christie said, referring to Curry. Curry said he was humbled by the overwhelming show of support. He thanked God, his family and the people of North Abaco for believing in him. Curry said he will work hard to make the people of North Abaco proud they voted for him. In a statement after the election, the PLP expressed gratitude to the residents of North Abaco for their vote of confidence and gesture of good will. “The PLP government is committed to the construction of three new pre-school units, repaved roads and the introduction of urban renewal in the communities of North Abaco well in advance of today’s by-election and will resolutely move ahead with those commitments,” said the party. “The PLP supports these government initiatives as vital to the sustained growth, development, safety and security of Abaco.” The former Prime Minister, and previous Member of Parliament for North Abaco, as well as the leader of the Free National Movement made concession remarks that evening. Mr. Ingraham made his statements as
unitedabacoshippingco@coralwave.com
the last of the votes came in. “The voters of North Abaco have decided that Mr. Renaldo Curry will become their next Member of Parliament. I wish also to acknowledge Mr. Greg Gomez for waging a vigorous contest during the by-election campaign. He has a promising future and will continue to make us all proud.” Mr. Ingraham continued, “I call on the Government to continue these efforts,” he said referring to the several projects which were started under his administration, “This includes working with Edison Key, and the people of North and South Abaco, in completing vital projects already in train and designed to boost Abaco’s medium and long-term development.” Mr. Ingraham again touched on his
fear that the PLP would use unfair practices including the threat of victimization to push their agenda. Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Hubert Minnis, also released statements following the defeat. “The facts are there and people have spoken,” he said, “people are intimidated, people were frightened to go out and vote, people were frightened to wear red. The voter turnout will speak for itself,” Dr. Minnis said. The FNM party leader promised that by 2017, if not sooner, the party would be reenergized and will be successful. Curry was sworn in as a Member of Parliament in the House on Wednesday, October 24, 2012.
Above: An FNM voter back from the polls. Outside most polling stations parties had encampments of supporters eager to show off their purple thumb.
November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
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The Abaconian November 1, 2012
November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
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Central Abaco Several Dundas Town landmarks received major damage By Samantha Evans On Thursday, October 25, the island of Abaco prepared for the arrival of Hurricane Sandy. Effects from the incoming storm could be felt from that morning. However, the full fury of Hurricane Sandy would not be felt until Thursday evening
going into Friday morning. During the day on Friday, October 25, residents could be seen on the streets as they walked and drove around to assess the damage left by Sandy. In Central Pines, the damage was minimal, mostly lost shingles and damaged vegetation. In Dundas Town the damage seen was more heart wrenching as the cabanas and playground at Brown’s Bay were destroyed. Debris from the abandoned structure next to it could be seen all over
Above: Brown’s Bay, a popular spot in Dundas Town, received heavy wind damage with many of the structures being destroyed.
the beach and in the street. At Ocean View Park the damage was bad as well as all of the work that was done by the Dundas Town Local Government in preparation to construct the seawall had been destroyed. This has been a major setback to the Committee but they will regroup and find resources to get the project for the Cultural Center Back on track. Plans to restore these areas will be given in an update from the Dundas Town Committee in the coming weeks. Flooding in the community was not as bad as some areas on Abaco, but there are several streets and low-lying properties on Forest Drive that are prone to flooding. To help alleviate the flooding in these areas, especially in front of Central Abaco Primary School, drains need to be established. Due to continual rain fall from the remains of Sandy, very little clean up could be done in the community in the few days following the storm. However, residents could be seen outside clearing the debris from the street, putting tarps on the roofs of their homes and firing up the grill to fix something to eat. People could even be seen fellowshipping on the outside of their home even as the rain continued to fall. This was short lived, though, as strong winds from Sandy lasted well into Saturday and early Sunday morning which made many believe that the storm was returning. Never-the-less, Sandy continued to move away from the Bahamas but she surely left her mark on the residents of Dundas Town and Central Pines.
Second traffic fatality for Abaco occurs on Don McKay Blvd On Sunday 21, October 2012, at 2:50 a.m. the Police at Marsh Harbour Police Station received a report of a traffic accident which occurred on Don McKay Boulevard near Quality Star Auto, at 2:45 a.m. involving two vehicles which collided head on. Police assistance was requested. A lone male driver, age 31 years, of the Pigeon Peas was the driver of a white Hyundai 2004 Hi Van who was travelling west along Don McKay Boulevard when he collided head on into a red vehicle. Both vehicles received extensive damages to the front section. He received minor injuries and was treated by a local doctor and released. He was taken into custody at the Marsh Harbour Police Station for further enquiries. The scene was visited by Emergency Medical Personnel care of Marsh Harbour Emergency Medical Team, who met the 30 year old male driver of the red vehicle unresponsive. The male, from Dundas Town, was later pronounced deceased on the scene due to injuries sustained. Speed appeared to be a factor in this incident, according to the Marsh Harbour Police. The 31 year old male driver was arraigned in court on October 24. Investigations into this matter continue. The Abaconian expresses our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
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The Abaconian November 1, 2012
North Abaco Pilot Club delivers food parcels to older persons in North Abaco By Samantha Evans The month of October was celebrated as Older Persons Month so the Pilot Club decided to be a part of this celebration and launch their first project. On Saturday, October 20, members of the Pilot Club delivered food packets to older persons in northern Abaco. The names of the persons visited were provided by The Department of Social Services. According to President Augustine Williams, they would normally fix a hot meal to deliver to these older persons as a part of their meals-on-wheels program but decided to give them food items which would feed them well for several days. Some of the items in the packet included rice, grits, canned goods, cooking oil and sugar. Pilot Club members donated the items, packaged the items and delivered them. The club left Marsh Harbour at 9 a.m. and returned at 2 p.m. They delivered twenty four packets of food to residents of Cooper’s Town, Fire Road, and Blackwood. At the homes they visited, they heard the concerns of the residents which included assistance with cleaning and house painting. However, all of the older persons were very appreciative for the food items and thanked the Pilot Club for thinking of them. President Williams stated that they will be doing more projects similar to this since this year they decided to give more. Each month they will engage in a giving
project. Further, they plan to increase membership, work closely with their youth arm, the Anchor Clubs, and raise more funds so that they can do more. The Projects Coordinator is Viline Bien-Aimer. On December 16, the Pilot Club will host an Emerald Ball. A portion of the funds will go towards assisting the Rotary Club with Brent Lowe’s building fund and the remainder will go towards Pilot Club projects. Interested persons can contact Fundraising Coordinator Margo Dean or President Augustine Williams. Meetings are held every third Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Dundas Town Burial Society.
Treasure Cay Library plans book sale On November 17, the Rose Mary Library at Treasure Cay plans to hold a book sale. Starting a 9 a.m. and going through noon, the grounds of the Treasure Cay Community Center will be full of literature for browsing. Proceeds from the sale will all go to the library. All Abaconians have membership to the Rose Mary Library, and this event is one way that the community is able to keep the library going.
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South Abaco Cherokee Community Clinic Committee will sponsor a steak-out and fundraiser By Lee Pinder On November 10 starting at 11 a.m. the Cherokee Community Clinic Committee will hold a steak-out. The event will be held on the school grounds and will be in aid of their new clinic building project. There will be some new games for the children, fun competitions for all who want to compete and soldier crab races to keep everyone entertained. The flea market promises unique items at rock-bottom prices. There will be some great raffle prizes donated by local merchants. All in all it promises to be a day of fellowship, fun and games. If you want an enjoyable day out with the whole family come to Cherokee on Saturday, November 10 starting at 11:00 a.m. for a steak dinner, a hamburger or hot dog, conch fritters, homemade ice cream, home-baked pies and cakes and fudge. The committee guarantees visitors will have a good time.
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Sandy Point slammed by Sandy’s surge By Timothy Roberts As Hurricane Sandy bore down on Abaco the first place to feel her impact and fury was Sandy Point as the low lying settlement was washed over in the storm’s six plus foot surge around two-O-clock in the morning on Friday, October 26. According to Stanley White, Chief Councillor of South Abaco District Council, the community was not prepared. He said they should have taken more heed to the warnings. “We were expecting a weaker storm so some people were not all that prepared and we were fortunate that there was really no damage from homes not being battened up properly,” he said. He said the community came through it okay but they had more flooding than was anticipated. “The water came through in a hurry and between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. over half of this land [Sandy Point] was flooded. Some areas had more than four feet of water,” he said. Mr. White said he lives on the west side near the beach and he had 6-8inches of water inside his house. “We had more water than anyone anPlease see
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November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
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Business HG Christie hosts mammogram luncheon By Canishka Alexander During HG Christie Ltd.’s Mammogram Luncheon on October 18, John Christie, vice president, addressed his guests at the Abaco Beach Resort in celebration of their 90-year legacy of excellence in real estate in The Bahamas as well as the company’s spirit of giving to their communities. Traditionally, he said that his ancestors are well known for their generosity. As they considered how they would put their 90-Year Celebration Fund to good use, Christie said it was decided that they would assist members of the community with access to breast screenings because breast cancer has a statistically high occurrence in The Bahamas. “Our donation of 90 mammograms – 30 in Nassau, 30 in Abaco, and 30 in Grand Bahama, will mean more women will have access to early detection and more women’s lives will be saved,” Christie reasoned. “HG Christie feels strongly that improving the health of our women has a positive effect on families and ultimately our communities. We know that ‘Early Detection’ can make the difference between surviving and succumbing to breast cancer disease.” He graciously thanked the entire HG Christie Team and the efforts of The Abaco Cancer Society (ACS). “It is because of organizations such as yours that we can be triumphant in this battle,” Christie said. Marjolein Scott, ACS vice president,
knows all too well about the triumphs. She has been involved with the Abaco Cancer Society since its inception, and spends most of her time and energy at the Thrift Shop located next to Abaco Groceries. Scott said the Thrift Shop provides their main source of income. In previous years, ACS used to pay for mammograms as women needed them at Auskell. Later, an anonymous donor contributed to their Mammogram Program, which allowed women to go to Nassau for the day to have the procedure done. “We received a cheque for 30 mammograms,” Scott exclaimed. “This is amazing; it’s huge, and of course, we thank HG Christie very much for that.” Presently, Scott said the list is already filled with the names of the women who will benefit from the procedure. On Nov. 3 – the same day as their Second Annual Kayak Challenge with Friends of the Environment – 30 women from Abaco will head to Nassau for their mammograms. Presentations were made to Patricia Saunders, who appeared on behalf of Beverly Archer; SarahJane Davis, a breast cancer survivor; Naomi McIntosh, who was selected as one who took preventative measures against the deadly disease; and Ann Wilmore, who attended on behalf of her relatives. Wilmore encouraged others to take advantage of initiatives that have to do with keeping our bodies in good health. “If you don’t know something you can’t do anything about it, so I would encourage them to check,” she said.
HG Christie made presentations on October 18 during their Mammogram Luncheon. The Bahamas has a statistically high occurrence of breast cancer, so HG Christie decided to put their celebration fund towards the disease’s prevention. 90 mammogram screenings have been donated to women throughout The Bahamas by the business, with thirty donated here on Abaco.
Remember to buckle up.
Citizenwith’shostReview ERIN FERGUSON
invites you to a
TOWN HALL MEETING on the
GAMBLING REFERENDUM
Anglican Parish Hall Friday November 16, 2012 Starting at 7pm L i v e Ta p i ng f o r TV
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The Abaconian November 1, 2012
From the Editor's Desk
This was supposed to be about the results of the by-election. But that seems so long ago now. I am just happy to know that, once again, no one was seriously injured during a hurricane that deiced to threaten our island. Fellow Abaconians, we’ve found ourselves, yet again, being helpless guinea pigs for hurricanes headed for the United States. At least that’s how it feels sometimes watching the stateside weather channels. But it does give me a strange sort of pride knowing that season after season if there is a “big one” coming it, usually hits us. But each time we survive. Each time we build back up. It reminds me of the Great Chicago Fire. The cause of the fire’s not important in this analogy. Some say some poor farmer’s wife left a lantern lit too close to some jumpy livestock, but we can’t really lay any blame on anybody when a hurricane comes knocking on our shores. It’s nature. In the time of the Great Fire the city of Chicago was just another among the many that had started popping up across the United States’ landscape. Chicago was nothing remarkable. Enter the fire on Tuesday, October 10, 1891. For nearly three days the city burned. The destruction that was left behind rivals any natural disaster of today. But where many would leave the hollowed and charred husk of Chicago behind, something different happened. Something happened that would resonate with the city’s inhabitants even today. Chicago rebuilt. From the ashes they became a phoenix. A city reborn.
The Abaconian Bradley M. Albury Editor-in-Chief AB 20213 Marsh Harbour Abaco, The Bahamas
Today they are one of the most important economic centers in the world. Today their skyline rivals New York or London. Today they are stronger, better, than before. Now I’m not saying we as an island, or a country, have endured anything quite as dramatic as the Great Fire. But then again maybe we have. Hurricane Floyd immediately comes to mind. But there have been many monsters before and there have been monsters since. And each monster storm has had its own brand of destruction it doles out on our shores. But what have we done each time? What have our parents, our grandparents our great-grandparents and our forefathers done each time? Whether it has been looking out at a ruined harvest season, a ruined fishing season or a ruined tourist season; we have always as Bahamians, as Abaconians, managed to rebuild. It has never been easy. And sometimes years later it still seems like repairs from a decade-old hurricane is still a work-in-progress. Our soil is thin. But not our skin. Though times may get tough it is in our nature to not only survive but to become stronger because of it. But I’m not really talking about the great Chicago Fire. Nor am I necessarily talking about hurricanes. At least not entirely. We have seemingly built ourselves a society that does not have to rely on hurricanes to tear it down. We have started to do that to ourselves willingly at every conceivable instance. We are becoming a category five self-destructive society. I do not want to see that. And I know it is avoidable. I know it is. Mr. Gomez campaigned on victimization. He campaigned on the facts how I believe he, and many Abaconians, understood them. I can’t speak to what claims were true and who did what to whom. But the fact remains that there are some of our brothers and sisters who live in an honest fear of what will happen now that they are “in the minority.” I cannot express how sad this line of thinking makes me. I know the majority of voting Abaconians did not see it the way the opposition portrayed it. The poll booths reflect that. But again, whether or not
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victimization was actually occurring, the FEAR of victimization MADE it real to some Abaconians. The fact that this by-election, this blip on a proud heritage, allowed such apparently deep-seated politically motivated angst to replace our common sense is disturbing. Whatever victimization occurred, and at whatever level and in whatever party, because it has existed in each party at some level, is below us as Abaconians. This fear is our great fire. We must extinguish it. We must rebuild. Because our sense of community depends on it. Because at the end of the day we have to put aside our red and gold and help our fellow Bahamian repair his dock and rebuild her home. This was a strange hurricane. Sandy lasted much longer than any-
one anticipated. It was more intense than many experts guessed. But the aftermath has been much like all those storms that have challenged us before. We prepared ourselves. We’ve been through these before. Not our first rodeo, as they say. We have a few weeks of repair ahead of us. Some healing. But it can be done. We’ve done it before and we can do it again. To borrow and parahrase a line from one of my favorite authors, (bonus points to anyone who can write in and tell me where it’s from) we are a nation who was born with our backs already bent to the wind. Our roots go a little deeper. Our trunks a little sturdier. And our spirits a little more resilient.
Calendar of Upcoming Events November 2-3: Treasure Cay Golftober Fest November 2: Grade 8 Spelling Bee November 2: Guy Fawkes at Forest Heights November 3: Up-the-Creek Kayak Challenge November 3: Angels Academy School Fair November 6: Hope Town School Italian Night November 7: Primary School Speech Contest November 10: Christian Counselling Center Fun Run/Walk November 10: Health Fair November 10: Cherokee Community Clinic Fair November 15: Beautification Day November 16: Citizen’s Review Town Hall November 17: Treasure Cay Library Book Sale November 24: Fireman’s Ball November 24: Hope Town Box Car Derby
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November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
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Letters to the Editor Encouragement for Lovely Reckley Dead Editor: My name is Shawnelia Francis. I am presently an eleventh grade student at St. Francis de Sales Catholic School. Kindly grant me a space in the newspaper to encourage Mrs. Lovely Reckley for her kind heartedness, love and support to the less fortunate children in Abaco , not only our Bahamian children but children of different nationalities. Mrs. Lovely Reckley feeds about 110-130 students daily, particularly students attending Central Abaco Primary School, Abaco Central High School and Every Child Counts. She has opened her eyes to the needs of the less fortunate children here in Abaco. At the take off of the new school year 2012-2013, she made sure that these children were provided with school uniforms, school shoes and supplementary school supplies. Not being able to provide for all out of her pocket, she may be found at Maxwells food store located in Marsh Harbour, Abaco Bahamas sitting at the exit with a basket collecting donations Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fellow Bahamians, I encourage as many of you as possible to donate and encourage her to continue helping these children that are less fortunate. As Mrs. Reckley’s grandchild it’s encouraging to me and a motivation to give unto others and not to keep everything to myself because there are many that are in
need of the things I take for granted. As Mother Teresa said “At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by “I was hungry, and you gave me nothing to eat, I was naked and you clothed me, I was homeless and you took me in.” Sincerely, Shawnelia Francis
Dangerous Pot Holes Dear Editor: Thank you for allowing me the space for the following: While traveling East on Don Mackay Boulevard on September 29 between K&S and Abaco Hardware, Saturday night during a rain squall, we hit a large pot hole in the road. As a result the rear wheel broke off. The truck then slid off the road hitting a wall, then it flipped over becoming a total wreck. Fortunately, although seriously injured, nobody was killed. Imagine if it had happened during rush hour traffic? So, please everyone, be very careful. It could happen to you. Accidents happen in a blink of eye, but replacing a life can never happen. Special thanks to the ambulance personnel and all other persons who assisted during this trauma event. -A concerned citizen of Marsh Harbour
Fire Department Progress Dear Editor: The Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire and Rescue wants the public to be aware of the status and recent progress of the department. In September 2011 the fire department moved into its own building across from Maxwell’s Supermarket. The volunteer firemen continue to complete the building which now has electricity and water. At present five trucks are in operation. The emergency number to call is still 367-2000 and dispatchers answer phone calls day and night. The firemen have reorganized the department and have put in place a Financial Committee to assist with financial and managerial issues. The members of this committee were elected by the firemen in April 2011. The community members are Reg Sands, chairman, Robert Pinder, Ruth Saunders and Brenda Sawyer along with firemen Randy Albury, Matthew Key and Shane Sands. Chief Fire Officer John Hall, who very competently served as chief for many years, had a serious medical condition that has kept him from being active in the department for the past two years. Chief Hall turned in his resignation as chief and as a member of the organization effective April 7, 2012. Sgt. Paul Johnson of the Royal Bahamas Police Force served as Acting Fire Chief, beginning his leadership role on October 12, 2011, and served until May 1 of this year. At that time the firemen elected Danny Sawyer as Fire Chief. The organization continues under the leadership of Chief Sawyer, who has been a member of the department for the past 15 years. The Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire and Rescue has served Central Abaco since the mid 1960s and is dedicated to protecting both people and property. It is dependent on the public for financial support which is greatly appreciated. -The Volunteers of the Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Numbers for the new Gov’t Complex Building
Administrator’s Office
669-0000
Department of Education
699-0016
Environmental Health
699-0032
Finance/Business License
699-0052
Dept. of Immigration
699-0067
Magistrate’s Court
699-0092
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367-2639
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699-0122
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699-0165 699-0171
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699-0187
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699-0200
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699-0202
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699-0207
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699-0217
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Prime Minister’s Office
699-0241
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699-0244
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Section A
The Abaconian November 1, 2012
All Abaco
The highway headed north experienced flooding and dangerous conditions. Above: ducks waddle along the side of the flooded road and pick at sea weed.
Sandy
From Page 1
as Hurricane Floyd (September 1999) the flooding was worse because they were flooded twice – once from the south as she arrived with a 6-8 foot surge and then as she left the heavy winds pushed water from the shallow south-side of Abaco back into the community. Green Turtle Cay also experienced heavy flooding in New Plymouth the water covered most of the town area. Other coastal areas experienced significant flooding as well. Communities further north, such as Blackwood, Cooper’s Town, and the various settlements of the Little Abaco region received significant flooding along the northern coastlines with sea water flooding out roads in a number of places. Marsh Harbour, Guana Cay, Man-OWar and Hope Town experienced flooding from their harbours flooding out the shoreline roads as deep as three to four feet in some areas. Marsh Harbour also saw extra flooding on Saturday as the winds forced an abnormally high tide surge into the farm lands on the south-side of S.C. Bootle Highway as well as into a small neighbourhood behind Cove Estates. A rescue team comprised of persons from Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire and Rescue using a small aluminum boat went in to help bring an immobile 91-year-old resident to be transported to relatives in a safer location. Bahamas Electricity Corporation workers were out as soon as it was safe to begin restoring power to residents. Luckily there was very little serious damage across the island and restoration has gone smoothly and quickly. Toni Seymour, Manager of BEC in Abaco, said that power has been restored
to more than 80 percent of the island. She noted certain areas still had some line damages or were waiting for transformers that were flooded out to dry out. Government officials said it was too soon to fully assess the damages caused by the storm and are continuing to visit affected islands including Abaco on October 29. Free National Movement opposition leader Hubert Minnis also took a tour of affected areas visiting on the same day along with fellow FNM party members and Member of Parliament for South Abaco, Edison Key. Prime Minister Perry Christie reported that the government will need to review the emergency communication system to ensure reliable communication during emergencies. He said he will also look at mandatory evacuations of areas that are prone to flooding. Director of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Captain Stephen Russell after his visit to Abaco on October 29 noted that they had three major concerns that need to be addressed immediately, including the loss of livelihood to fishermen who lost boats, the number of docks destroyed also hampering the fishing community and the disease concerns for those residing in flooded shanty towns such as Sand Banks and the Mudd. While Abaco was fortunate in having no loss of life or serious injuries, Hurricane Sandy left a trail of about 67 deaths across the Caribbean including one in New Providence and one in Grand Bahama. After leaving The Bahamas Hurricane Sandy, now a hybrid storm combining the low pressure of a tropical system with snow and a cold front, slammed into the northern east coast of the United States bring snow, rain and heavy storm surge along with hurricane force winds.
Above: most settlements experienced some flooding. Among the hardest hit were Green Turtle Cay and Sandy Point. Below: Hurricane Sandy left destruction all along Abaco’s shoreline. Many boats were sunk or floated into the road. Many docks experienced damage as well.
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Above: the highway heading south. Powerful surges brought the water level up and over the road. At high tide the road was completely submerged. This image was taken at low tide.
Local 242.366.0216 • US 561.208.8369 • realestate@hopetown.com
HOPE TOWN HIDEAWAYS
Queen’s Highway, Hope Town, Elbow Cay, Abaco, The Bahamas
Hope Town • Marsh Harbour • Guana Cay • Lubbers Quarters • Treasure Cay • Man-O-War Cay • Green Turtle Cay • Tilloo Cay
November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 11
All Abaco
Damages
From Page 1
She recalled that the water rose at first, and then receded from the shore giving her the impression that all was well. Castello was wrong. “After 4 a.m. or so I got up, and I saw the water start to come over to the house,” she said. “I went through the storm to my car, and I sat in my car until after 12.” Fortunately, only furniture and a few books were damaged in Castello’s home. Nevertheless, an abundance of sea grass and fish scales covered her lawn and an array of fishing vessels lined the narrow streets. Meanwhile, Fox Town Government Clinic also experienced flooding and damage to its roof. A stone’s throw away from the clinic,
Garnell Pinder was the next person in the long line of losses. She explained that the area where she has lived for the past 20 years normally floods, but it was the first time that two boats landed in her yard. As for the dock that they were tied to – it was long gone. Pastor Stephen Knowles’ dilemma on his farm was also made known to Prime Minister Christie, and he allowed Knowles the opportunity to talk about his plight. Although unable to give an estimate of the loss and damage to SNK Organic Farm and Petting Zoo, Knowles mentioned the loss of 36 piglets and a great number of crops. A twotime victim of hurricane season, Knowles was also hit by Hurricane Irene last year. As they continued through the settlement, the Prime Minister spoke with Ron-
Above: a boat that came loose during the storm and came to rest on dry land during the extensive flooding.
The Prime Minister and Ronald Russell talking about what Mr. Russell lost during the hurricane.
ald Russell, the owner of M & R Seafood, who suffered great loss with the destruction of his docking and fueling facilities. Russell said that his business provided one of the main hubs for fuel in the area. As he observed the damage, Russell expressed that despite feeling bad over what happened, there is nothing that he can do about it. The business has been in his family for more than 20 years, and he has managed it for 12 to 13 of those years. Russell added that affordable insurance to ease their burden. Toward the end of the visit to the North, Prime Minister Christie shared that there are many challenges with regard to the necessity for duplication of infrastructure throughout the islands. “The Government of The Bahamas
when it comes to disaster preparedness has a very, very difficult and expensive proposition because it requires us to look at how we can help people ease their personal loss and suffering,” he said. Prime Minister Christie talked about the enormous personal loss to Grand Bahama, particularly its pensioners; and the rebuilding of roads from a structural standpoint. He continued: “My major concern in the region itself is the impact of climate change and the issue itself. There’s no model for our country in this hemisphere; if you superimpose a map of The Bahamas or the Caribbean, you will see the challenges.” The tour ended in Crown Haven with future plans to visit South Abaco and the remaining Bahamas Islands that had been impacted.
Page 12
Section A
The Abaconian November 1, 2012
November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 13
Page 14
Section A
The Abaconian November 1, 2012
All Abaco Opposition leader assesses damages By Timothy Roberts Doctor Hubert Minnis, leader of the Free National Movement, visited Abaco on Monday, October 29 to get a first-hand assessment of the damages suffered on the island as a result of Hurricane Sandy. After touring Grand Bahama, Dr. Minnis arrived on Abaco to assess damages and noted that the government must assist Abaco as it assists other affected islands as well. “Abaconian who suffered damages as a result of flooding, they too should be offered government assistance.” He also noted his concern for farmers who would have lost crops due to Hurricane Sandy. “Farm areas and places like Abaco Big Bird need assistance after the
great financial stress these individuals would have gone through.” Another component Dr. Minnis felt need to be looked at is the need for an assessment of the psychological impact of Hurricane Sandy. “What you are looking at today is one particular health aspect but tomorrow, because of the impact, lots of individuals will need counseling. This is an aspect that the Ministry of Health needs to consider.” He was pleased to see that the minihospital under construction did not take any damage and shows that the location is relatively safe in the event of a significant storm. He noted the admirable spirit of the Abaconian people and that they are already about the business of cleaning-up and moving on after the storm; “It speaks of the resiliency of the people of Abaco,” he said.
Abaco Chamber tours new airport
Above: Abaco Chamber of Commerce given a tour of the new terminal by the architect.
Above: Darron Cash (Former Acting FNM Chairman), Frankie Russell, Opposition Leader Dr. Hubert Minnis and MP for Central and South Abaco Edison Key.
On October 16 the Abaco Chamber of Commerce took a tour of the new airport terminal. Donald Dean, chief architect of the site, acted as tour guide of the nearly completed building. The Abaco Chamber was pleased to see the work that had been done so far. When they compared the nearly finished project to what had originally been proposed, the Chamber was happy to admit they had played a hand in upgrading the site plans. Mr. Dean stated that, according to his estimation, the terminal should be completed by the middle of December. No word yet on what, if
any, delay Hurricane Sandy has put on the project. Mr. Dean explained that work had progressed smoothly from one political administration to the other. However, some of the same problems continued to persist, including getting work inspected and meeting with the end users, namely the airlines who plan to rent the booths. The Chamber of Commerce also expressed their concern that an airport management company had yet to be sePlease see
Terminal
Page 18
Above; Interior of new terminal; new thoroughfare.
The Department of Public Health presents
“Lets Get Well Abaco”
Family Wellness Day & Health Fair Saturday, November 10, 2012 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the BAIC Park (Across from the BEC Office in Marsh Harbour)
Join us for a fun day of family wellness activities!! •FREE Pressure, Sugar, Cholesterol & HIV Checks •FREE Weight, Diabetes, & Hypertension Tips •FREE Healthy Cooking Demonstrations •FREE Backyard Gardening Demonstrations FOOD, MUSIC, GAMES, PRIZES, SURPRISES, DANCE CONTEST! 367-2510, 554-9922, 367-3067
AND SO MUCH MORE!
November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
Section A
Page 15
Further Business Entrepreneur Watch
Sweet Island Treats
Kidz R’ Us
Ashley Knowles, out of Hope Town, decided that if she kept waiting for the right time it would never come. So she made her own time and set out to start her baking service. Sweet Island Treats, is her new business that is hot out of the oven. “I'm currently providing pies to Hope Town Inn and Marina for their dessert menu and have made a few pies by order for a couple of their guests,” Ms. Knowles said. She explained that her bakery is “by-order” so she can assure each customer that the goods will be fresh and catered perfectly. Ms. Knowles prefers getting orders in at least three days ahead of time. This way she can be sure to have all the ingredients ready and not worry about doing a rushed job. She makes just about any type of baked good including: pies, cookies and cupcakes. She’s keeping things simple to start out with, baking out of her own home, but she is excited to grow. Ms. Knowles is also keen on the social media aspect of growing her business. Every fresh batch of new baked goods she posts to her company’s Facebook page, which is also one of the best ways to get in contact with her to place an order. Another way to reach her is via telephone at 242-577-0282.
By Samantha Evans Kidz R Us opened its doors for business on Saturday October 6, 2012 at 102 Dove Plaza next door to Golden Grouper in Marsh Harbour. Owner Charlene Russell stated that she and her daughter Rebecca Sweeting had been talking about opening this business for several years and when the space became available they decided to do it. Now that they are open, Charlene’s sister, Marla Key will be partnering with them. Charlene has worked with her greataunt at Party Time for several years and now that they are closing down, she will be carrying some of those items in this new business venture. Kidz R Us specializes in toys, children’s clothing from babies sizes to 14-16, party supplies, underwear, socks, baby blankets, crib sheets, school bags, some character flip flops, greeting cards for all occasions, gift bags, and decorations. They also have stuffed animals by the Ty Company, beanie babies, assorted board games, playing cards and more. They will also blow up helium balloons and sell various assortments of balloons. They will also carry baby furniture including high chairs, walkers, and pak n’play. Just in time for Christmas they will be bringing in more clothing including Ninjago, Legos, bikes, play kitchens, children’s tents, and play table and chair sets
for toddlers. Lay-a-ways are also available for parties. They will be introducing gift certificates in the coming months as well. Russell is also looking to provide a baby section of the shop so that they can carry items expecting mothers need to pack their hospital bag. Kidz R Us is a great place to shop for Christmas, birthdays and all those special occasions. They are open Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They can be contacted at 475-1571 (which is their temporary number).
Augustine’s Upholstery By Samantha Evans Augustine Williams has been in the upholstery business for many years in Dundas Town but this year, he got an opportunity to open his business in Treasure Cay so he seized it. His shop is located in the Treasure Cay Shopping Plaza where Bill’s Upholstery used to be. He specializes in home, office and marine upholstery work. He covers sofas, love seats, dining room chairs, bar stools, chaises and the like. For marine upholstery he covers ttops, Bimini tops, cushions, boat covers, and snap covers for the Bimini top. Since he moved to this new location, his business now sells canvas bags which are made within. Since the bags came on stream they have been selling well.
He is looking forward to them expanding their canvas line in the coming months. He picks up from and delivers items on the mainland, the freight boats and ferry boats. His shop is open Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. He can be contacted by calling 457-0665 or 367-1297.
AbacoCottage.com A new website is making vacationing in Abaco easier than ever. According to the owner, Robbie Bethel, Abaco Cottage Properties (www.AbacoCottage.com) has quickly become the largest searchable database of rental homes and resorts in Abaco with more homes joining every day. The website includes privately rented homes, homes that are managed by rental companies, as well as resorts that maintain cottages in addition to their rooms. Abaco Cottage includes houses on all of the major Abaco locations: Hope Town and Elbow Cay, Lubber’s Quarters and Tilloo Cay, Man-O-War, Guana Cay, Marsh Harbour and the Mainland of Abaco, Treasure Cay and Green Turtle Cay. Promotion plans for the site include local, national and international advertising, drink coasters with the site address in local restaurants and bars, tri-fold brochures to be placed around Abaco. In the Please see
Entrepreneurs Pg 17
Page 16
Section A
The Abaconian November 1, 2012
November 1, 2012
The Abaconian
Further Business Auskell Gym and Fitness Centre officially opens By Jennifer Hudson October 10 marked the official opening of the Auskell Gym and Fitness Centre. The guest speaker was Dr. Keith Lewis, a chiropractor who sees patients on a regular monthly basis at the Auskell Clinic. Dr. Lewis was instrumental in setting up the program which is modeled on his very successful fitness rehab centre in the United States which was established in 1992. He welcomed everybody telling them, “It is our goal to get everybody healthier through healthy diet and exercise. In time we would like to expand this to all of the islands. Any age group from 6 to 96 can participate in the gym and its programmes which are geared to increasing muscle tone and cardiovascular function.” He highlighted the many, varied services offered. An aerobics class led by Churton Toote is held every morning and despite its early hour of 5 a.m. it is very popular. On Mondays and Wednesdays a Healthy Lifestyle class is led by Elaine Pilon which includes Pilates and yoga exercise and talks on nutrition. This class has proved so popular that a new class is being scheduled for Tuesday evenings. Two detox services are offered. The body contour wrap is a detoxifying body wrap in which the body is covered with a Niacin (Vitamin B) cream and then wrapped during a 30 to 45 min process. This helps improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage and, is claimed, to promote the loss of inches. An Ionic Cleanse footbath detox system is designed to draw out impurities from the body. Two innovative services are also in the pipeline; these include Light Therapy and Music Therapy. Following his talk, Dr. Lewis answered personal questions from the audience and gave good advice. He explained that in addition to chiropractics, he is also Board Certified in anti-ageing medicine and his goal is to diagnose to prevent things from happening and to minimize the use of medications.
Throughout the day free 15 minute back, neck and shoulders stress reliever massages were offered. These were provided by Derek Donathon, a massage technician from Nassau. Mr. Donathan had clients scheduled from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. which was an intense work load for him. He was very pleased at the response and stated that by lunchtime he had already given 15 massages and after that he lost count. Mr. Donathon, who trained in general body massage, sports massage and reflexology at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute, began his career working at the Bob Marley Resort in Nassau and has been recently working privately. He has now been hired by the Auskell Clinic to work full time for them on Abaco and will shortly moving here. “I love what I do; I have always wanted to work in the medical field and this is holistic medicine. Massage helps the body heal itself and I can see the results of my work,” he stated. People who attended the grand opening also enjoyed giveaways and refreshments and a tryout of the gym apparatus. Anyone wishing to sign up for use of the gym and/or any of the classes can call Auskell Clinic that 367 0020 for more information and to register.
Entrepreneurs
From 15
coming months the company will also be launching “Blue Door Rentals” a comprehensive rental home and resort search website for all of the Bahamas (a first of its kind). All properties on AbacoCottage.com will automatically be included in the Abaco section of that site at no extra charge. They are launching a booklet to tie in with the site called The Abaco Rental Guide. This guide will be coming out later this Fall (November 2012) with our first issue, they will be printed every 6 months. Abaco Cottage does not take referrals or commissions for rentals. The cost per home is $180 a year. Resorts are being offered half price for four or more units as well as being listed on the “Resorts of Abaco” page. Persons or Agencies interested in signing up their rental homes or resorts should contact him at e-mail: info@
AbacoCottage.com or call 242-366-0576.
Fox Window and Door Repairs By Samantha Evans Oxley Fox is a native Abaconian but had been away from the island for several years while he worked on the island of Eleuthera. Now that he is back on the island, he has restarted his business Fox Windows and Door Repairs. As an entrepreneur, he finds that business can be a bit slow especially if locals are not aware of the services provided. Therefore, he decided to write a bit about his business to let people know what areas he specializes in. Mr. Fox considers himself to be a Jack of all trades but he specializes in glazing windows and doors. He also repairs broken glass, screens, mirrors, and water leaks especially as a result of storms or hard frequent rain. He works from his home office in Murphy Town but is on the road a lot as the majority of his work is done on site. He works seven days a week and is on call 24 hours a day. He can be contacted by calling 367-1265 or 458-4810.
Abaco Delight Charter Services By Samantha Evans Captain James Sands has been in his business, Abaco Delight Charter Services, for the past 15 years. He enjoys taking the visitors to the Abacos around the island for an island hopping experience. He provides such experiences to Man-O-War Cay, Guana Cay, Green Turtle Cay, Hope Town and Treasure Cay. He takes them to see the sights of each of these locations then takes them snorkeling at Sandy Cay, Fowl Cay, or Mermaid Reef. While on the Cay, he takes them to one of the local eateries for them to have a down home Bahamian meal. Additionally, he also takes the guests to dive for conch, lobster hunting, and deep sea fishing. He then polishes the conch shell for them to take home as a Bahamian souvenir. On Friday October 12, Captain Sands launched his stall next to First Assembly Church in Marsh Harbour. At his stall, he sells grill conch, conch salad, jerk chicken, grill chicken, conch fritters, cassavas, sweet potatoes, and fried fish. He will eventually offer boil fish as an alternative to fried fish since his focus is on getting the public to eat healthier. The stall will be open every Friday from now on. They will be open from 12 noon until. Captain James can be reached by calling 458-2380.
DHL Promotes Services on Abaco
Above: Dr. Keith Lewis explaining some of the equipment and techniques at the Auskell Gym and Fitness Center.
By Samantha Evans Ted and Ali Curry are business owners who love helping people. So when the opportunity presented itself for them
Section A
Page 17
to become the local agents for DHL they gracious accepted. DHL is solely a courier service that is operational worldwide. They just introduced their service to Cuba which is an untapped market. The main service offered is express service which can be delivered in three to five working days depending on where the package is going. According to Ali Curry, they receive and deliver packages to their clients. What makes their service stand out from the rest is that they ensure that once the package arrives on the island that their clients receive it by the next day. Additionally, she explained that packages are sent out the same day received. Over the period of October 10 and 11, representatives from the Nassau Head Office were on Abaco to promote DHL services to Government Agencies, banks, law firms and other local businesses. Ms. Curry wants potential business clients to know that they can open a business account with them and be billed monthly for the services rendered. She stated that the services provided by DHL are of the highest quality and they pride themselves in offering efficient service time. Packages are received Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cut of time is important because they need time to get packages to the airport by 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. She further noted that customers can look forward to added services in the coming months which will allow them to continue helping the community to grow. To find out more about the services offered, persons can contact them at 3672274 or visit them online at www.OCIinvestment@hotmail.
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Don’t Forget to Advertise your: Restaurant Specials Political & Business Thank You ads Christmas & New Year Events Store and Merchandise Open House School & Church Programs
DEADLINE FOR AD PLACEMENT FOR: November 15th issue is November 8th December 1st issue is November 22nd December 15th issue is December 6th
Telephone: 242-367-3200 Fax: 242-367-3266
Email: abaconiannews@gmail.com www.theabaconian.com
Page 18
Section A
The Abaconian November 1, 2012
All Abaco Terminal
From Page 14
lected. Without the management company in place, the infrastructure would remain dormant. The tour took the Chamber up to the top floor, where airport administrators would be stationed, and out to the domestic and foreign sides of the tarmac. One significant improvement of the new terminal over the old one is this division of arrivals. Mr. Dean went over some of the details and state of the art equipment which will be housed in the new terminal. He said the building will be one hundred percent self-sufficient on power for an extended period of time should mainland power be lost. He also explained that with the establishment of the new terminal an entirely new culture will have to take hold. He was referring to the way the previous airport handles security and maintenance compared to how it should be in the new terminal. The Chamber enquired whether the new terminal would be able to handle a
future increase in traffic. Mr. Dean responded that the designs incorporated farsighted planning. He pointed to the spacious waiting room lounges and efficiently designed customs and immigration areas. When questioned about rumors that the new air control tower was built too short, Mr. Dean shook his head and explained the tower is the pinnacle of engineering for such a structure and perfectly suited for the job. The only problem, he suggested, might be that when they extend the runway the tower will not be exactly in the center as it is now. The Ministries responsible recently toured the runway and planning is already underway for around a 1,400 foot extension. This will accommodate bigger jets. Everyone agreed that this would not be such a large problem. The tour concluded and the Chamber of Commerce thanked Mr. Dean for his time. Everyone was happy with the contribution the Chamber had made in lobbying for the airport and the new designs which were put into place. With December approaching it is yet to be seen if the airport will be open for the season.
SP
From Page 6
ticipated.” Fellow resident Preston Roberts noted that the storm was different than Hurricane Floyd which hit in September 1999. He said that even though Floyd was stronger they only had one flooding. Sandy, however, brought additional flooding from the western side of the settlement after the eye of the storm passed. Mr. White said that “the most important thing needed right now is help for those who had flooding in their houses and we also need to get the clean-up orga-
nized as soon as possible.” He said they are looking forward to getting the electricity back on and telephone services need to be restored so that they can communicate. He said after the storm there was only one phone working in the community. “This is a community that sticks together and does what is necessary to help each other,” Mr. White said.
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Above: Sandy Point was hit particularly hard during the storm. The settlement was one of the first place on Abaco the hurricane hit and the area received extensive flooding.
Hotels and House Rental Agents + agents with multiple cottages and houses Sea Level Cottages
Area Code 242 unless listed otherwise
Island-wide Abaco Listings
Above: part of the lounge at the new terminal. The lounge will consist of two floors.
Abaco Cottage + Abaco Vacation Planner +
114 hse 25 hse
Lee Pinder + Marina Albury Cottages
3 hse 366-2053 5 cottages 366-2075
Cherokee
Grand Cay
Rosie’s Place
Green Turtle Cay
366-0576 367-3529
352-5458
Barefoot Homes 14 hse 577-4092 Bluff House Club 12 units 365-4247 Cocobay Cottages 6 cott 800-752-0166 Green Turtle Club 35 rm 365-4271 Island Properties + 34 hse 365-4047 New Plymouth Inn 9 rm 365-4161 Ocean Blue Properties + 34 365-4636 Other Shore Club 365-4226 Roberts Cottages 3 cott 365-4105
Guana Cay
Dive Guana + Dolphin Bch Resort Guana Sunset Beach Ocean Frontier Ward’s Landing Ruth Sands +
11 hse 365-5178 4 rm 10 cott. 365-5137 13 units 365-5133 6 cott 519-389-4846 4 units 904-982-2762 9 hse 365-5140
Hope Town
Abaco Inn 22 rm 366-0133 Crystal Villas 5 villas 321-452-0164 Elbow Cay Prop + 53 hse 366-0035 Hope T Harb Lodge 25 rm 366 0095 Hope T Hideaways + 63 hse 366-0224 Hope Town Inn 6 rm 4 Villas 366-0003 Hope T Villas + 3 hse 366-0266 Lighthouse Rentals 4 cott 366-0154 Sea Gull Cottages + 4 hse 366-0266 Sea Spray Resort 6 villas 366-0065 Tanny Key + 43 hse 366-0053 Turtle Hill 4 villas 366-0557
Lubbers Quarters
4 hse
Man-O-War
366-3121
Island Home Rentals + Schooner’s Landing Waterway Rentals +
2 hse 365-6048 5 condos 365-6072 14 hse 365-6143
Abaco Beach Resort Abaco Real Estate + Abaco Towns Ambassador Inn Bustick Bight Resort Conch Inn Living Easy + Island Breezes Motel Lofty Fig Villas Pelican Beach Villas Regattas HG Christie +
82 rms 6 hse 16 apts 6 rms 8 rms 9 rms 16 hse 8 rms 6 eff 6 cott 32 apts 11 hse
Marsh Harbour area
Sandy Point
367-2158 367-2719 367-0148 367-2022 367-3980 367-4000 367-2202 367-3776 367-2681 367-3600 577-6764 367-4151
Oeisha’s Resort 366-4139 Pete & Gay’s Resort 14 rm 366-4119 Rickmon’s Bonefishing 10 rm 800-628-1447 Spanish Cay Resort
Spanish Cay
18 rm 6 hse 365-0083
Treasure Cay
Bahama Beach Club 88 units 365-8500 Brigantine Bay Villas 5 units 877-786-8455 Treasure Cay Resort + 95 rms 365-8801 Mark’s Bungalows 4 units 365-8506 Abaco Estate Services + 365-8752 Island Dreams Rental + 357-6576
Turtle Rock
Villas at Palmetto Beach
3 villas 262-820-1900
Tangelo Hotel
14 rm 1 villa 365-2222
Wood Cay
Web Sites with Abaco Information
http://www.abaconian.com http://www.abacos.com http://www.abacoinet.com http://www.oii.net http.//www.abacoinfo.com http://www.bahamas.com http.//www.abacocottage.com Rev. March 2012
Visitors’ Guide November 1, 2012
Emergency Services
Police - Marsh Harbour 367-2560 • 911 B. Electricity Corp 367-2727, 367-2846, 367-4667 Water & Sewerage 475-1499, 475-5518 The following services are provided by volunteers Fire - Marsh Harbour 367-2000 Fire -Hope Town VHF Ch 16 • Fire - Green Turtle Cay 365-4133 Fire - Man-O-War 365-4019 Abaco Crash Fire & Rescue 365-9111 BASRA Bah Air Sea Rescue Assoc - all areas Marine VHF 16 Hope Town 366-0500 Marsh Harbour 367-3752 Guana Cay 365-5178 Treasure Cay 365-8749
Medical Services
Abaco Family Medicine Marsh Harbour.......................367-2295 Auskell Advanced Medical Clinic.................................367-0020 Integrated Medical Center...........................................367-1304 Emergency................................................458-1234 Marsh Harbour Medical Centre....................................367-0049 Government Clinic Marsh Harbour.............................367-2510 Corbett Clinic Treasure Cay ..........................................365-8288 Government Clinic Cooper‘s Town...............................365-0300 Government Clinic Green Turtle Cay............................365-4028 Government Clinic Hope Town ....................................366-0108 Government Clinic Sandy Point...................................366-4010 Government Clinic Fox Town .......................................365-2172 Tourism’s People-to-People program
Be matched with a local person or family with a similar interest such as Bird watching, Attending church, Foreign language, School class visit, Environmental interest. Marine, Native plants, History, Humane Society, etc. This is not a dating service or an offer for a free meal or lodging but an opportunity to meet someone locally with similar interests. Call Tourism’s Doranell Swain at 367-3067 for more information. Email: dswain@bahamas.com
Airlines Serving Abaco
Abaco Air - Nassau, N Eleuthera, Moores Is............................367-2266 Air Gate Aviation - Daytona/New Smyrna............................367-3636 American Eagle - Miami ......................................................367-2231 Bahamasair - Nassau,W. Palm B, Ft Laud .............................367-2095 Continental Connection - Miami Ft. Laud and W Palm Beach...............................................367-3415 Craig Air Center - North Florida............................................367-3522 IBC Airways - Ft.Lauderdale, W Palm Beach..........................367-1336 Locair - Fort Lauderdale..............................................1-800-205-0730 Regional - Freeport...............................................................367-0446 Sky Bahamas - Nassau/Ft. Lauderdale..................................367-0996 Twin Air Calypso - Fort Lauderdale ......................................367-0140 Western Air - Nassau ............................................................367-3722 Yellow Air Taxi - Ft Lauderdale..............................................367-0032 Local air charters serving Bahamas & S.Florida Abaco Air...............................................................................367-2266 Cherokee Air Charters .........................................................367-3450
Dive Shops
Abaco Dive Adventures, Marsh Harbour......................367-2963 Above & Below, Marsh Harbour..................................367-0350 Dive Abaco 1978, Marsh Harbour............................... 367-2787 Dive Time, Man-O-War................................................365-6235 Froggies, Hope Town.................................................. 366-0431 Treasure Divers, Treasure Cay.......................................365-8571 Brendal’s Dive, Green T. Cay........................................ 365-4411 Dive Guana................................................................. 365-5178 Man-O-War Dive Shop .................................................365-6013
• Between Marsh Harbour Ferry and: Clinic, downtown, Ab Beach Hotel .................................................. $ 10 Nat. Ins. Bldg, Murphy Town, Gr. Cistern ...........................................$10 Wait time $0.40 per minute, Hourly rate $40 per hour Children under three - free • Caged pets - as people Luggage $0.75 each over two, large bags $1 ea. • Treasure Cay Airport to: Effective Dec 08 Green Turtle Cay ferry dock................................................................$10 Madeira Park.....................................................................................$20 Sand Banks .......................................................................................$25 Treasure Cay Resort...........................................................................$30 Leisure Lee ........................................................................................$45 Black Wood .......................................................................................$20 Fire Road & Cooper’s Town ................................................................$40 Cedar Harbour ..................................................................................$60 Wood Cay ..........................................................................................$70 Mount Hope..................................................................................... $80 Fox Town ...........................................................................................$85 Crown Haven ....................................................................................$90 Marsh Harbour airport ......................................................................$80 Green Turtle Ferry to Marsh H Airport ...............................................$80 Treasure Cay Hotel to Marsh Harbour.................................................$85 Treasure Cay Hotel to Green Turtle Ferry............................................$25 Treasure Cay Hotel to Blue Hole.........................................................$30
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Restaurants • Services • Transportation w w w. t he a b a c o n ian .c o m
Ferry Schedules • Departure times shown • Daily service unless noted Marsh Harbour to Hope Town or Man-O-War - 20 minutes, Guana Cay - 30 minutes
Everyone reads The Abaconian
Albury’s Ferry Service • Ph 367-3147 or 367-0290 • VHF Ch. 16 • Hope Town & Man-O-War from Crossing Bch Marsh Harbour>Hope Town 7:15am 9:00am 10:30am 12:15pm 2:00pm 4:00pm 5:45pm Return: 8:00 am 9:45am 11:30am 1:30pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:30pm Marsh Harbour>Man-O-War 10:30am 12:15pm 2:30pm* 4:00pm 5:45pm * Not on Return: 8:00am 11:30am 1:30pm 3:15pm* 5:00pm Sundays Marsh H.>Guana Cay/Scotland cay From Conch Inn or holidays (6:45am - Union Jack Dock) 10:30am 1:30pm 3:30pm 5:45pm Return: 8 am 11:30am 2:30pm 4:45pm 6:30pm
All phones use area code 242 unless noted
Fare • Adult prepaid one way $17 / open return $27, • Kids 6-11 half, Under 6 free (Phone after hours 359-6861) Note: During the month of August through December there are some adjustments made to the schedule. You are advised to contact the office for the changes.
Green Turtle Ferry • Phone 365-4166, 4128 • VHF Ch 16 • Ten minute ride T Cay Airport>Green T Cay 8:30am 10:30am 11:30am 1:30pm 2:30pm 3:30pm 4:30pm* 5:00pm Return: 8am 9am 11am 12:15pm 1:30pm 3:00pm 4:30pm* * * Note: 4:30 pm trip to GTC not on Sundays
** Note: 4:30 pm trip will be made from New Plymouth only
New Plymouth :One way adult $12 (Children $7) • Round trip $17 (Children $10) • Extra to some G T Cay docks
Abaco Adventures • Ph 365-8749 or 375-8123 VHF Ch 16 Charters Available Treasure Cay to Guana Cay Sunday departs 11:00am & returns 3:30 p.m. $40 Round Trip T Cay to Man-O-War/ Hope Town - Saturday departs 9:30 am, $45 Round Trip Pinder’s Ferry Service Between Abaco & Grand Bahama Crown Haven, Abaco to McLean’s Town, Grand Bah. Daily 7:00 am & 2:30 pm McLean’s Town to Crown Haven - return Daily 8:30 am & 4:30 pm Fare $45 OW / $90 RT • Children half fare • Call Abaco 365-2356 for information Bus between Freeport and McLean’s Town • Rental automobiles at both terminals. Bahamas Ferries Summer Schedule only (April to Dec) Sandy Point & Nassau Every Friday & Sunday, except holidays, under 4 hours. Call 225-3376 or 366-4119 Call for rates. The Great Abaco Express Eco & Historical bus tours • Call 367-2165 or 559-9160
Attractions
Albert Lowe Museum.................................Green Turtle Cay Capt Roland Roberts House, reef exhibits...Green Turtle Cay Memorial Sculpture Garden..................... Green Turtle Cay Wyannie Malone Historical Museum..................Hope Town Elbow Cay Light Station.....................................Hope Town Swim Mermaid Reef off Marsh Harbour......... Pelican Shore Drive to & swim in Blue Hole............Treasure Cay farm road Art studio & working foundry....................... Little Harbour Working boatyards......................................Man-O-War cay
Pocket Beaches
• Crossing Beach in Marsh Harbour • Witches Point - 3 miles S. of Marsh Harbour • Little Harbour - 20 miles S. of Marsh Harbour • Cherokee - 23 miles S of Marsh Harbour Miles of beach (most exposed to ocean) • Treasure Cay • Green Turtle Cay • Guana Cay • Elbow Cay • Man-O-War Cay • Casuarina Point • Bahama Palm Shore • Sandy Point & more
Items of interest
• Man-O-War boat yards • Blackwood blue hole & sisal mill • Cedar Harbour plantation ruins - need guide • Hole-in- Wall lighthouse - last mile very rough road • Abaco wild horses by appointment 367-4805 • Bird watching - ask tourism 367-3067
Taxi Cab Fares one or two passengers
Extra $3 for each passengers above two • Marsh Harbour Airport to: Effective Dec 08 Clinic, Downtown, Stop Light, .........................................................$10 Ab Bch Resort, Eastern Shore close, Ferry .........................................$15 Spring City.........................................................................................$15 Dundas Town, Nat Ins bldg, C Abaco Primary Sch ..............................$15 Murphy Town & Great. Cistern ..........................................................$20 Snake Cay .........................................................................................$35 Casuarina Point.................................................................................$60 Cherokee, Winding Bay, Little Harbour..............................................$80 Bahama Palm Shore..........................................................................$90 Crossing Rocks.................................................................................$105 Sandy Point ....................................................................................$150 Leisure Lee ........................................................................................$50 Treasure Cay Airport, G Turtle ferry....................................................$80 Treasure Cay Resort...........................................................................$85 Fox Town .........................................................................................$165
The Abaconian
Charter Boats Lucky Strike - Hope Town......................366-0101 Sea Gull - Hope Town............................366-0266 A Salt Weapon - Hope Town..................366-0245 Down Deep............................................366-3143 Local Boy...............................................366-0528 Back Breaker.........................................365-5140
Abaco Marinas - Slips - Fuel - Phone
Green Turtle Cay Bluff House ....................... 45..........F..........365-4200 Green Turtle Club ............... 32..........F..........365-4271 Black Sound Marina........... 15......................365-4531 Other Shore Club................ 12..........F..........365-4195 Abaco Yacht Service........... 10..........F..........365-4033 Treasure Cay Treasure Cay Marina......... 150..........F..........365-8250 Man-O-War Man-O-War Marina ........... 26..........F..........365-6008 Marsh Harbour Boat Harbour Marina....... 183..........F..........367-2158 Conch Inn........................... 75..........F ..........367-4000 Harbour View Marina......... 36..........F ..........367-2182 Mangoes Marina................ 29......................367-4255 Marsh Harbour Marina....... 52..........F.......... 367 2700 Hope Town Hope Town Marina............. 16......................366-0003 Hope Town Hideaways.................................366-0224 Lighthouse Marina............... 6..........F..........366-0154 Sea Spray........................... 60..........F..........366-0065 Spanish Cay Spanish Cay Marina............ 75..........F..........365-0083 Guana Cay Bakers Bay Marina........... 158..........F..........365-5802 Guana Hide-aways............. 37......................577-0003 Orchid Bay.......................... 64 .........F..........365-5175
Boats can clear Customs at Green Turtle Cay, Treasure Cay or Marsh Harbour
Bring errors & revisions to our attention Revised March 9 12
Bonefish Guides Casaurina Point Junior Albury................ 366-3058 Cherokee Noel Lowe.................... 366-2107 Marty Sawyer............... 366-2115 Randy Sawyer............. 366-2284 Will Sawyer.................. 366-2177 Crossing Rocks Tony Russell................ 366-3259 Green Turtle Cay Rick Sawyer................. 365-4261 Ronnie Sawyer............ 365-4070 Hope Town Maitland Lowe............. 366-0234 Tom Albury................... 366-3141 Man-O-War David Albury................ 365-6502
Tours & Excursions Abaco Eco Tours & Kayak rental........................475-9616 Abaco Island Tours • Marsh Harbour.................367-2936 Abaco Neem • Marsh Harbour..........................367-4117 Abaco’s Nature Adventure................................577-0004 Above & Below • Marsh Harbour......................367-0350 Adventure on Prozac - T Cay.............................365-8749 Brendals Dive • Green Turtle Cay.......................365-4411 C & C Charters - Treasure Cay............................365-8506 Dive Abaco 1978, Marsh Harbour.....................367-2787 Excursion boat, Froggies • Hope Town..............366-0024
Bikes & Scooters • Boats Cars & Cart Rentals Marsh Harbour A & P Car Rentals ..............................................367-2655 Abaco Dorado Boat Rentals...............................367-1035 B & B Boat Rentals............................................367-7368 Bargain Car Rentals...........................................367-0500 Blue Wave Boat Rentals ....................................367-3910 Concept Boat Rentals........................................367-5570 Cruise Abaco......................................................577-0148 Quality Star Car Rentals (Texaco).......................367-2979 Rainbow Boat Rentals.......................................367-4602 Rental Wheels Scooters, Bikes, Cars...................367-4643 Rich’s Boat Rentals ..........................................367-2742 Sea Horse Boat Rentals .....................................367-2513 Sea Star Car Rentals .........................................367-4887 The Moorings Boat Rentals...............................367-4000 Green Turtle Cay Brendals Dive Bikes & Kayak rental...................365-4411 C & D Cart Rental ..............................................365-4084 Cruising Cart Rentals.........................................365-4065 D & P Cart Rental ..............................................365-4655 Donnie’s Boat Rentals........................................365-4119 Kool Karts.........................................................365-4176 Reef Boat Rentals .............................................365-4145 Sea Side Carts & Bikes.......................................365-4147 T & A Cart Rentals.............................................375-8055 Guana Cay Donna Sands Cart Rentals ................................365-5195 Dive Guana Boats & Bikes..................................365-5178 Orchid Bay Cart rentals......................................354-5175 Lubbers Quarters Cruise Abaco..............................................321-220-8796 Man-O-War Conch Pearl Boat Rentals..................................365-6502 Ria-Mar Golf Cart Rentals..................................365-6024 Waterways Boat Rental .................357-6540 & 365-6143 Hope Town Cat’s Paw Boat Rentals......................................366-0380 Elbow Cay Cart..................................................366-0530 Hope Town Cart Rentals ...................................366-0064 Island Cart Rentals ...........................................366-0448 Island Marine Boat Rentals ..............................366-0282 J R’s Cart Rental.................................................366-0361 Sea Horse Boat Rentals.....................................366-0023 T & N Cart Rentals.............................................366-0069 Treasure Cay Adventure on Prozac - Kayak.............................365-8749 Blue Marlin Rentals...........................................365-8687 Cash’s Carts.......................................................365-8771 Cornish Car Rentals...........................................365-8623 JIC Boat Rentals ................................................365-8582 Triple J Car Rentals............................................365-8761 Abaco Adventures - Kayaks ..............................365-8749
Marsh Harbour Jody Albury................375-8068 Sidney Albury.............477-5996 Richard Albury...........367-0367 Terrance Davis...........375-8550 Buddy Pinder.............366-2163 Justin Sands..............367-3526 Danny Sawyer...........367-3577 Jay Sawyer................367-3941 North Abaco O’Donald McIntosh....477-5037 Alexander Rolle.........365-0120 Edward Rolle.............365-0024 Herbert Thurston.......365-2405 Sandy Point Valantino Adderley.....366-4323 Anthony Bain.............366-4107 Derek Gaitor..............366-4249 Nicholas Roberts.......366-4486 Treasure Cay Capt. Joe Pritchard....559-9117
Restaurant Guide Prices $ Low, $$ Moderate, $$$ Upper (Based on dinner entree range) + Picnic tables & restroom only ‡ Provides ride from town Marsh Harbour Abaco Pizza..................................$................... 367-4488 Anglers....................................$$$................... 367-2158 Blue Marlin..................................$................... 367-2002 Curly Tails ................................$$$................... 367-4444 Gino’s...........................................$................... 367-7272 Golden Grouper .........................$................... 367-2301 Island Family Rest........................$................... 367-3778 Java Coffee House........................$................... 367-5523 Jamie’s Place................................$................... 367-2880 Jib Room ...................................$$................... 367-2700 Kentucky Fried Chicken................$................... 367-2615 Mangoes..................................$$$................... 367-2366 Pop’s Place + ...............................$................... 367-3796 Snack Shack +.............................$................... 367-4005 Snappas.....................................$$................... 367-2278 Wallys .....................................$$$................... 367-2074 Hope Town Abaco Inn ...............................$$$................... 366-0133 Cap’n Jacks.................................$$................... 366-0247 Harbour’s Edge.......................... $$................... 366-0087 H T Coffee House (B & L)...............$.................. .366-0760 H T Harbour Lodge ...................$$$................... 366-0095 Munchies.....................................$................... 366-0423 OnDa Beach...............................$$................... 366-0558 Sea Spray ‡................................$$................... 366-0065 Sugar Shack +.............................$................... 366-0788 Little Harbour Pete’s Pub...................................$$................... 366-3503 Lubber’s Quarter Cracker P’s..................................$$................... 366-3139 Man-O-War Bradley’s on the Harbour..............$................... 365-6380 Dock’n Dine..................................$................... 365-6139 Island Treats Snack Bar.................$................... 365-6501 Guana Cay Baker’s Bay - Market Place.......$$$................... 612-1021 Grabbers....................................$$................... 365-5133 Nippers .....................................$$ .................. 365-5143 Orchid Bay................................$$$................... 365-5175 Treasure Cay Coco Beach Bar & Grill..................$................... 365-8470 Florence’s Cafe..............................$.................. .365-8354 Spinnaker Restaurant ..............$$$................... 365-8469 Touch of Class .........................$$$................... 365-8195 Treasure Sands Club.................$$$.................. .365-9385 Green Turtle Cay Bluff House..............................$$$................... 365-4200 Jolly Roger Bistro.......................$$................... 365-4200 Green Turtle Club .....................$$$................... 365-4271 Harvey’s Island Grill....................$$................... 365-4389 McIntosh’s Restaurant ...............$$................... 365-4625 Miss Emily’s Restaurant..............$$................... 365-4181 New Plymouth Inn.....................$$................... 365-4161 Pineapple Restaurant Bar & Grill.$$.................. 365-4039 Plymouth Rock Cafe...................$$................... 365-4234 Shorties Take-a-way...................$$..................365-4342 Sundowners...............................$$................... 365-4060 Sandy Point Nancy’s......................................$$................... 366-4120
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Section A
The Abaconian November 1, 2012