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December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 1 VOLUME 16, NUMBER 24 DECEMBER 15th, 2008 North Abaco celebrated One Bahamas Guests included Governor General and Olympian Gold Medalist By Vernique Russell Patriotism, pride and nationalism defi- nitely set the mood as North Abaconians gathered at the S.C. Bootle High School for the One Bahamas Celebration 2008 on November 27.

The celebration began back in the 90s by Sir Orville Turnquest, then Governor General of the Bahamas.
Since then during the month of November a week has been assigned to reflect on what makes us Bahamians and what unites us as one country.

With a cool Atlantic breeze blowing, One Bahamas was portrayed in songs, ring games and dances done by students from North Abaco.

The schools brought forth their best choirs, dancers and soloists to complete the celebrations.

These renditions truly brought out what it means to be Bahamian.
In attendance was Sir Orville Turnquest, Sir Durward Knowles and other dignitar- ies from Nassau and Abaco.

Sir Orville Turnquest, the Father of One Bahamas, encouraged the students to remember that we are one, no matter which island we hail from.

Sir Durward Knowles urged those Please see One Bahamas Page 13 Sir Durward Knowles was part of the group visiting North Abaco to celebrate One Bahamas.

He is shown here giving representa- tives of each of the schools in North Abaco a DVD copy of his life story.
He was the first Bahamaian to win a gold medal in the Olympics and it was in sailing.

Armed Robbery ends in Murder By Julian Lockhart Shots rang through the peaceful silence of Marsh Harbour on November 27th when two young men from New Providence took the life of Abaco resident Dion Brendon Strachan, 25.
He was working at his father’s store, M & R Food Store on Crockett Drive in Marsh Harbour, when two men entered the store in an attempt to rob it shortly before 8 p.m. A short while later Dion Strachan was killed when shot multiple times to the body.

The thieves got away with approximately $1,300 in cash from the store.

Dion’s father, Roderick Strachan, had left the shop minutes previously to take a cus- Please see Murder Page 14 Murder victim Deon Strachan Housing Minister pleased with new houses U.S.
Ambassador visited Central Abaco Primary The U.S. Ambassa- dor to The Bahamas, Mr. Neil Siegel, vis- ited Central Abaco Primary School on November 24.

After a program that the students put on in his honour, he spoke to them about the impor- tance of reading and read to them a chapter from the book Morn- ing Girl.

The story is significant because it shows the importance of sharing emotions with family.
While on Abaco he was hosted by the Abaco Club on Winding Bay, visited the new development at Schooner Bay and was hosted by Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club on Great Gua- na Cay.

See story on page 6.

The Minister of Housing, the Hon.

Kenneth Russell, center, inspected the houses under construction in Spring City being built by government.

Accompanying him were Mr. Melvin Seymour, the Hon.

Brensil Rolle, both from the Ministry of Housing, and Administrator Cephas Cooper.

See story on page 2.


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The Abaconian Stuart Web Inc. 1521 SE Palm Ct Stuart, FL 34994 Forward and Address Correction PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID WEST PALM BCH FL Permit NO 4595 Page 2 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Minister updated community on housing By Mirella Santillo The government’s housing programme that started in Nassau and Freeport contin- ues on Abaco with 76 homes under con- struction in Spring City and the Ministry of Housing offering local residents additional fully serviced lots to carry out their own construction both in Spring City and the Central Pines Subdivision in Marsh Har- bour.
To follow up on the progress and inform the community at large on what to expect, the Minister of Housing, the Hon.

Ken- neth Russell, visited Abaco to inspect the new phase of construction in Spring City and the building sites in Central Pines.

Ac- companying Mr. Russell was a delegation including the Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Housing, the Hon.
Bren- zil Rolle, the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mr. Melvin Seymour, officials of the Min- istry of Works, Ministry of Health, Water and Sewerage and the Bahamas Electricity Corporation.

Mr. Russell’s first stop was in Spring City at a three-bedroom house close to completion.

He described the Spring City Housing Subdivision as the continuation of a dream.

“Spring City was a historic place and the intention was to bring Spring City back to life.
I think looking around at not just the number of houses here, but the quality of houses so far; it is a wonder- ful testament for a city that was built here many years ago during the pine days,” he said.

Mr. Russell pointed out that there are several models of houses being construct- ed in Spring City, making it attractive to many potential dwellers.

He added that the Ministry is currently building some 76 houses in the Spring City Subdivision and that a large number of those are nearing completion.
“We are hoping that quite a number of them would be completed for Christmas so that people could move in them and bring new life here to Spring City,” he stated.

“What impressed me the most is that the workmen here on Abaco are working dili- gently to complete these house at top qual- ity,” he said.

While pointing out that they are current- ly constructing 76 homes at Spring City, Mr. Russell said it is his Ministry’s inten- tion to build a total of 100 homes there.
He expects all the homes to be completed by the first half of next year.

Seventeen contractors are doing the construction and inspectors are on site daily.

The size of the homes ranges from 800 to 1200 square feet with either two or three bedrooms and will be sold at prices rang- ing from $50,000 to $80,000.

Already 160 would-be “first time homeowners” have applied to buy the houses that are to be built.

The whole project called for a total of 319 lots to be developed.
Mr. Russell hopes that people will be lured to Spring City by the reasonable prices to buy the reminder of the vacant lots and build for themselves.

He mentioned that financing is available through the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation with five percent down pay- ment or through private banks.

The gov- ernment has plans available for building low cost homes.

Anyone using these plans Please see Housing Page 16 Fifteen of the houses under construction in Spring City are nearing completion.
This is the kitchen in the main room of a three-bedroom two-bathroom house.

Early indications are that this is a popular model.

On the left is the Hon.

Brensil Rolle, Parliamentary Secre- tary in the Ministry of Housing, and on the right are the Hon.

Kenneth Russell, Minister of Housing, and Mr. Melvin Seymour, Acting Permanent Secretary.

Mr. Kenneth Russell and his group were pleased with the quality of construction of the government-built houses in Spring City.
Seventeen contractors are working on houses and the construction is inspected daily.

The new houses are creating a new greatly upgraded look to this community.

Lots are available for those wanting to open businesses there.

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The day began with the awards ceremony for the Boys Reading Challenge followed by a very memorable visit by the U.S.

Ambassador to The Ba- hamas, Mr. Neil Siegel.

When the Ambas- sador and his team of Abaco government and police officials arrived at the school, the students of the upper primary school prepared a short program welcoming him to their school.
The students performed a song called Knowledge Is Something if You Get it Today, You Will End Up Having More, sung to the tune of Love is Some- thing if You Give it Away.

The Ambassa- dor was very moved by this presentation as was evident on his face as he listened attentively to every word that was spoken.

The students spoke eloquently which made everyone present very proud.
Ambassador Siegel commended the leaders of Abaco and the educational sys- tem for the wonderful job they are doing with these students.

He told the students that reading helps them to dream so that they can achieve their goals.

As Ambassa- dor, he stated that a part of his job is to as- sist with education and working along with the Ministry of Education in their reading and literacy program and this has been an honor and a privilege for him.
For about ten minutes he read the third chapter of the book Morning Girl which every school across The Bahamas should be reading as well.

The story talked about the emotions and feeling of loss one family felt as a result of a baby dying.

He stated that the book lets them in on the life of this family.

It showed them how to share feelings they may be going through and the importance of letting people into their lives.
At the end of the program, the Am- bassador was presented with a gift and he in turn gave the moderators, principal, and superintendent a small gift as well.

Superintendent for Education in the Abaco District, Mrs. Lenora Black, stated that reading is very important.

It not only improves your vocabulary but allows you to better express yourself.
She expressed her approval of the major focus the school has placed on reading and told the Am- bassador that early that morning the boys were honored for excelling in reading.

She told the students that once they are able to read, they will find that the negative activ- ity they once found pleasure in would be diminished.

Additionally, once they leave school, they would be able to function throughout life as they would have learned and mastered those skills needed for them to be productive citizens.
She stated that it is so fitting that the Ambassador chose that day to visit as it must have been pre- ordained.

His presence there only further serves to motivate these eager students to learn through reading.

The U.S. Amabassador to The Bahamas, Mr. Neil Siegel, was hosted by the Abaco Club of Winding Bay.

He is shown here with Mr. Floyd Swain, general manager, who showed Mr. Siegel around.

Mr. Siegel is traveling to several Out Islands to acquaint himself with the country.
Mr. Siegel visited Central Abaco Primary School to encourage the students to read more.

He is shown here greeting individual students at the largest school on Abaco with more than 700 students.

Support the Cancer Society Donate Used Items to Be Sold in Their Thrift Shop • Call 367-3744 for info December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 7 MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS RT.

HON.
HON.

HUBERT A. INGRAHAM It is once again my great pleasure to extend warm greetings to all residents and visitors to Abaco’s shores during this Christmas Season.

Christmas traditionally brings our generosity of spirit and friendship to the forefront.

Indeed, I am always proud of the bigheartedness of Abaconians not just at Christmas time but throughout the year.
It is all the more important that we use the Christmas season as is our custom, to share with friends and neighbours and especially with the less fortunate.

I hope that Abaconians and other Bahamians throughout our island communities will make welcome all those who are away from their families and friends and who ﬁnd themselves in our midst during this Holy Season.
I am very pleased to use this occasion to acknowledge and thank the many individuals and busi- nesses who respond positively throughout the year to those in need.

I thank also those in government service, in the uniform branches, in our schools, in our clinics, in social services and in the wider administrative and technical public service for their continued efforts to serve the Bahamian people here in Abaco.
On behalf of the Government of The Bahamas, my family and myself, I am pleased to wish you a blessed, peaceful and safe Christmas, and the joy that only Christ can bring.

Hubert A. Ingraham 10 December, 2008 Page 8 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 The Editor Says .

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Our Christmas traditions continue D a v e R a l p h It was announced in the fall that Marsh Harbour’s annual Christmas Festival had to be cancelled.

People were disappointed as this was a popular and widely anticipated event.
Then, with the Prime Minister’s en- couragement, it was resurrected but with lit- tle time for properly organizing the details.

For the past several years it has easily been the single largest event on Abaco, drawing young and old people from the length of Abaco including the cays.

As previously staged, it had live entertain- ment, Santa Claus, food, arts and crafts, games, even a dog show, appealing to a wide range of people.

We estimate that in the course of the day several thousand people attended.
There was a continuous flow of persons arriving and leaving throughout the afternoon and evening.

The site where the event was held in previous years was not available.

Finding another location did not seem feasible as there were no funds to prepare an alternate location.

With little time to organize, the BAIC site was put at the committee’s disposal.

The committee had a little over three weeks to get the site ready and schedule booths and events.
We know their dedica- tion and we are confident the event will be a success.

For those not familiar with this new location, it is on Don MacKay Boulevard in Marsh Harbour across the street from the BEC office.

It is the BAIC site for a future farmer’s market and craft center with a park-like atmosphere.

The present improvements will be utilized as the park is developed.

With the committee’s limited funding, central government made several major contributions to make sure the event was successful.
First, the site was quickly grad- ed and rolled to a smooth surface.

Second, on short notice BEC installed several poles with floodlights and outlets for musicians and food vendors.

Third, the Royal Baha- mas Defense Force Band will perform at central government’s expense.

These three items would have consumed more funds than the committee had available.
With the site prepared, power and lights installed and major entertainment sched- uled, the committee has been left to fill the entertainment gaps with local talent.

This can be accomplished with a much smaller budget.

Craftsmen, food vendors, Junkanoo groups and musicians are being contacted as well as schools and service clubs with their displays and fund raising schemes.
It is encouraging to see the festival back on track, even though the small volunteer team is having to work overtime to put it all together.

Credit for putting this event back on the calendar is due our representative for North Abaco, who happens to be the Prime Min- ister.

He made a few phone calls and things began to take shape.

Our representative for South Abaco, Mr. Edison Key, was quietly working in the background to see that the BAIC site was properly prepared.
On a smaller scale, central government is assisting North Abaco in having a simi- lar festive evening by providing the Royal Bahamas Police Marching Band and Pop Band as the prime entertainment.

With our economy showing signs of decline, Mr. Ingraham is looking for ways to bolster people’s spirits over the holidays.

On December 19 the popular boating parade will be held in Marsh Harbour.

It is scheduled to begin at the Marsh Har- bour Marina and will circle the harbour one or more times.
Tidal restrictions are likely to limit the boats to outboard power or shallow draft vessels.

This was always a popular event, but the fireworks at the conclusion may have had a hand in the high attendance.

Present budgets do not allow fireworks which are expensive.

Several towns are planning celebrations near Christmas.

Santa will be making his appearance in many communities.

These Christmas events are basically community oriented for local residents, but they always welcome visitors.
World news on the television is rather bleak, but Abaco has weathered downturns in the economy in the past.

Several ear- lier recessions in the United States were barely felt here.

Abaco seems to survive these periods better than other areas in the Bahamas.

We hope that our Christmas visitors will arrive in acceptable numbers.

Let us hope that Abaco’s appeal remains strong and that our visitor arrival numbers stay steady.
As a boost to the Abaco economy, sev- eral government capital programs are in the works with one of the largest being the 100 low cost houses scheduled for Spring City.

Seventy of these houses are under construction now by 17 different contrac- tors.

This project fulfills two basic needs: putting people to work and providing low cost housing which is in great demand on Abaco.

These are not give-away houses but will be paid for by conventional mort- gage payments.
Other public works programs are sched- uled with a similar dual purpose, to stim- ulate the local economy with jobs and to benefit us with some projects which have been scheduled for some time.

Construc- tion of a 60,000-square foot administrative complex is expected to start early in 2009.

This will house many government agen- cies and departments.

Additional low cost subdivisions are on government’s drawing board.

Although our economy is not robust, we have much to be thankful for.
With all the strife and hardship in the world, we live in a quiet and peaceful country.

May we enjoy the many freedoms which millions do not have.

Let us be thankful and en- joy these holiday festivities with family, friends and neighbours.

Letters to the Editor An Invitation to Our Visitors Dear Editor, No ordinary camera is powerful enough to capture what I experienced last night.

The fact that there was no moon was part of the reason for the phenomenon.
The night was more than a little cool without a whisper of a breeze and no visible rain in sight anywhere around.

The velvety black night sky seemed to surround me like a cloak and the stars sparkled like tiny dia- monds.

I realize it is not ours alone, but is the same sky seen by millions of other people all over our world.
However, I do not be- lieve it could have been more spectacular anywhere else on this earth than it was last night in Cherokee Sound, Abaco, in the northern Bahamas at 27.50 degrees South latitude by 76.50 degrees North longitude on this the 27th day of November in the year of our Lord 2008.

How lucky we are to live in such a beau- tiful place.

Yes, we have the lovely warm sun by day, but it is the nights that take your breath away.
All is quiet, all is serene and peaceful and your eyes are pulled upward into the heavens.

You can’t look away, all you can do is stare in amazement.

You can only feel small, insignificant and unimport- ant in such an awesome production.

Yet it is comforting.

Maybe because of its bril- liance we know we are part of a larger plan like being part of an artist’s painting and being included in a much bigger picture.

cost cannot be that high.

Why are we back in the dark ages?


Maybe some get a thrill from watching one of our many lovely sunsets.

I can also feel a bit dreamy and nostalgic seeing the sun go down.

But what I really love is to wake up early enough to see one of our fantastic sunrises.

When the purples turn to pinks and the pinks to gold, they are like a light show that is gone in the blink of an eye, yet is unforgettable and starts each new day with brand new hope.
At this particular time of the year, we truly have so much to be thankful for.

One of the things I’m thankful for is the beauty that surrounds us in the sky.

So I encourage all our visitors to step outside some dark night and drink in the incredible beauty, a picture only God could paint.

Lee Pinder Abaco needs a mini-hospital Dear Editor, I wrote a letter about six months ago in reference to the lack of a proper medical facility on Abaco.
This situation continues, and now the situation has become even more urgent as one of the private doctors has now discontinued all after-hour emer- gency care and is directing all after-hour emergencies to the government clinic.

Over the past year I have had the op- portunity to take four persons with broken bones to seek medical attention in Marsh Harbour.

Because they were all visitors and the incidents occurred after hours, we have had no choice but to take them to the government clinic.
As soon as you arrive at the clinic, the doctor takes one look at the patient and says “gotta go to Nassau.” Can you believe that the Marsh Harbour government clinic does not have an X ray machine?

Even for a simple fracture there is nothing they can do.

I can understand for a major com- pound or open fracture they might have to be flown out but for a simple break?

If there was an X ray machine, simple fractures could be fixed at the government clinic.
Many times there might not even be a break but a bad sprain and for this reason persons have to go to Nassau or Florida to have an X-ray?

Two private doctors in Marsh Harbor have X ray machines so the I am sure there are other needs at the clinic, but I think this would be a good start.

How can we continue to promote ourselves as a top tourist destination when not even the basic health care services are available.
Baker’s Bay even has it in their brochure that in the event of an emergency at their property, their guests will be flown by helicopter to the mini hospital in Marsh Harbour.

(the helicopter is another story!)

but what mini hospital are they referring to?

During election time Abaco was prom- ised a mini hospital in the FNM manifesto.

With the amount of tourist revenue that Abaco generates I would think this would be a priority.

Edison?

Hubert?
Edison?

Hubert?

Troy Don Albury Great Guana Cay An appeal to support Hope Town’s pool Dear Abaco Residents and Community Pool Supporters: It has been brought to my attention that Elbow Cay Properties has been shoulder- ing much of the burden of the increased electrical cost to operate the community pool.

With this increasing debt, they have made the decision to shut down the pool at the end of the summer.
As a contributor to the pool I have no personal interest in this venture other than the benefit to the community.

I am writing this letter in hopes that the deficit in financing for the pool lies in a lack of understanding and communication.

The increase in power bills has affected ev- eryone here and in the US.

It is something we can all understand.

If this deficit is not brought to the attention of the committee and the community, the pool will be closed to the detriment of the children of Abaco.
After seeing a couple of the swim meets, I was inspired by the dedication of the kids to be able to participate in a team sport, something not widely available to them here.

The children compete as individu- als, as members of a team AND for their communities.
Because they have this op- Please see Letters Page 23 The Abaconian David & Kathleen Ralph Editors & Publishers P O Box AB 20551 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Abaco’s most complete newspaper Inquire for advertising rates 7,500 copies Published twice monthly (U.S. address) 990 Old Dixie Hwy #14 Lake Park, FL 33403 Phone 242-367-2677 FAX 242-367-3677 Email: davralph@batelnet.bs Photo credit: Tuppy Weatherford for parrot & lighthouse on page 1 Reporters/Writers: Samantha Evans, Jennifer Hudson, Julian Lockhart, Vernique Russell, Mirella Santillo Contributors: Cleola Pinder, Lee Pinder Free at over 100 Abaco locations from Grand Cay to Moore’s Is.
Subscription rate $20.00 Abaco (One Year) $45.00 USA $95.00 UK, Europe & Caribbean - surface $25 other Bahamas $65 Canada - airmail Subscribe NOW Order form on Page 9 Conference showed uses of GIS technology December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 9 By Jennifer Hudson cies that use GIS The 2nd GIS User Conference was held at the Abaco Beach Resort from November 19-21.

The theme for this year’s confer- ence was Advancing GIS Technology One Island at a Time.
This is the first time the conference has been held on Abaco; the ini- tial conference was held last year on New Providence.

The conference was hosted by the Bahamas National Geographic Informa- tion Systems (BNGIS) Centre, Ministry of the Environment, in collaboration with the Local Government of Central Abaco.

Ad- ministrator Cephas Cooper played a role in the organization of the conference and acted as moderator.
The primary objective of the conference was “to provide a forum for presentations on GIS related topics and informational and educational opportuni- ties for anyone in business, government or the academic arena who is interested in the use of GIS technology in and around the Bahamas.” The Conference comprised a series of presentations focusing on a range of sub- jects of interest such as: • Overview of the Bahamas National Geographic Information Systems (BNGIS) Centre • Technology Spatial Data Infrastruc- ture Improvement Project • Various presentation sessions by agen- November 19, the first day of the con- ference, marked the celebration of GIS Day.
Ms. Antonique Sweeting, GIS Ana- lyst, BNGIS Centre, in her welcome ad- dress explained the meaning of GIS Day and the purpose of the conference.

“This is a grass roots event celebrated by thousands of people all over the world and formal- izes the practice of GIS users opening their doors to the public to showcase real world applications of this important technology in an effort to build vibrant GIS communities throughout the world and in The Bahamas.
Persons are here from Abaco, New Provi- dence and around The Bahamas to witness the rise of the next GIS users in The Ba- hamas”.

Ms. Carolann Albury, Director of the BNGIS Centre, stressed the need for minds that think outside the box and are passion- ate about the environment.
She stated that the Centre will continue to promote GIS in the classroom and announced that as a special part of the GIS Day celebration stu- dents from Abaco schools who had taken advantage of the opportunities to use GIS in the classroom would be engaged in a competition.

The keynote address for the first day was given by Dr. Leon Higgs, Director of Lifelong Learning at the Ministry of Education and immediate past President of the College of The Bahamas.
“GIS is used in many areas, has countless applications and is a powerful tool,” he told the group.

“You must take advantage of the oppor- tunities to be exposed to the cutting edge technology of GIS.

This marks a special occasion in the BGIS Centre in collabora- tion with the Ministry of Education for ex- ploring ways of advancing GPS.
We must ensure that the Bahamas has a trained work force to take on increasing demands and this will involve GIS.” Keynote speaker for the second day of the conference was Ms. Carolann Albury, who opened by expressing her pleasure in having the Ministry of Education partner- ing with the BNGIS especially as the focus is on exposing teachers and students to use GIS systems in the classroom.
“Whatever careers and dreams the students will fol- low, they will be equipped with the nec- essary skill sets and modern tools needed to manage our world,” she stated.

Ms. Albury went on to list the things we all want in our great nation such as improved water quality, protection of our maritime borders, reduced crime in our neighbour- hoods, improved land management, reduc- tion in traffic congestion and improved emergency services.
GIS can help with all of these national and global issues,” she informed.

Mrs. Albury continued, “GIS is no lon- ger a luxury or a technology for specialists but is in fact the tool of the 21st century that supports the policy decision making process.

The Ministry of the Environment is aware of the importance of GIS in The Bahamas and knows that geospatial data is essential for addressing the critical issues of world leaders.
It is evident that The Ba- hamas has to catch up with the use of this technology as an integral part of agencies’ workflow processes.

We have started this process by innovative work undertaken to develop draft GIS legislation in collabora- tion with over 40 governmental agencies as well as those operating under the Ministry of the Environment.
Only GIS technology allows you to store and manipulate infor- mation using geography and to analyze patterns, relationships and trends in that information to help policy makers make better decisions.” Ms. Albury quoted the Minister of State for the Environment, the Hon.
Phenton Neymour, who said, “To make all this work we need to transform the way we conduct business, we need to break down the all too familiar barrier that says, ’But we’ve always done it this way,’ and replace it with ‘Let’s make this hap- pen.’” In closing, Ms. Albury said that they expect further feedback from principals, teachers and students on how they envision integrating GIS in existing curriculum for further consideration.
Ms. Vinceia Coakley read a poem, “GIS The Wave of the Future” which was written by Valderez Miller.

This was fol- lowed by a presentation of awards by Mr. Duane Miller of the BGNIS Centre.

Musi- cal interludes were provided by the Wesley College Youth Band.

A tour of the Map Gallery and Exhibits in the Below Decks rrom followed.

The remainder of the conference was devoted to a series of varied presentation sessions by agencies that use GIS.
It Pays to Advertise The Second GIS User Conference was held in Marsh Harbour on November 19 and 20.

The first day was devoted to working with high school students from three government schools while the second day featured presenters who showed how the GIS system could assist in many areas of government and private applications.
Shown here are Senior Ad- ministrator Cephas Cooper, who helped organize the conference, Mrs. Carolann Albury, Director of the Bahamas National Geographic Information Systems Centre, and Mrs. Enid White Gardiner, moderator for part of the conference.

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Box AB 20551, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Apr 2006 Page 10 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Home Show boasted 20 companies By Jennifer Hudson Abaco’s first Home Show was held on November 22 on the grounds of Faith Convention Centre.

Many people enjoyed the first show of its kind here.
The idea for the show took root in the mind of Mrs. LaSonya Missick, an employee at Scotia Bank, way back in August, and she part- nered with her uncle, Mr. Larry Williams, owner of the Faith Convention Centre, to bring the idea to fruition.

She had been no- ticing the number of home stores that there are now in Marsh Harbour and that their prices are good.

“People have always liked to shop in Florida and really had no aware- ness of what is available locally,” said accoutrements for the home.
Standard Hardware also had a large assortment of paints and tools on display including some very large table saws and even a cement mixer.

The Paint Place was advertising a large range of Benjamin Moore paints and Abaco Stereo had a whole area designated to large appliances.
Companies displaying fine furnishings were Buttonwood Furniture whose major piece was a king size bed beautifully Please see Home Show Page 11 Mrs. Missick, who decided that she would really like to showcase what the Abaco home stores have to offer.

“There is now a bigger market because Abaco is growing, and I wanted to give the economy a helping hand,” she added.

Twenty companies participated and booths were set up both inside and outside the building.
In addition to the home-related booths, the Scurvy Few raffled two child’s bicycles to raise funds for their Toys for Tots programme and there were also din- ners and desserts on sale.

A bouncy castle provided enjoyment for the little ones and the New Entry Band came at four o’clock to bring an air of festivity to the occasion.

In order to bring in the crowds there were some drawings very nice prizes every hour and a beautiful ta- ble by Abaco Marble and Granite valued at $2,995 was also being raffled.
Anyone buy- ing a $10 dinner ticket was eligible to enter a drawing for a $1,000 giveaway to be spent with any of the vendors at the show.

for The children were not forgotten at Abaco’s Home Show.

Cotton candy was a popular snack while a bouncing casle entertained them.

Lots of good food and drinks were avail- able to keep people happy while they shopped.

Bahamas Real Estate Association had a booth that gave infor- mation for those wanting to purchase property.
They explained its Multiple Listing Service and its other services.

Shwon here are Mailin Sands, Margo Albury and Chris Roberts.

Booths were varied, touching on all areas of home ownership.

Abaco Hardware’s booth really covered everything from paints, tools and appliances to a wide variety of at- tractive home décor products such as lin- ens, bedding and many Abaco Hardware had a large outdoor display that included appliances, housewares and linens as well as tools, equipment and diving supplies.
Browsers and shoppers could examine the merchandise at their leisure.
Holiday Celebrations Christmas Eve Celebration Choose between a Family Style Dinner or A La Carte Menu Featuring: Champagne “Specials” Family Style Dinner: Select from Pineapple glazed Ham or Oven Roasted Turkey with sides Entertainment: Live Caroling 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Special Guest: Santa will appear Price for Family Style Dinner: $29.95 per adult; $14.95 per child (Does not include gratuity) Advance Reservations Recommended Christmas Day Celebration Christmas Grand Buff et - Anglers Restaurant Featuring: Complimentary Champagne or Wine Toast Entertainment: Live Caroling 6:30 pm-8:30 pm Appetizer: Cream of Conch Soup Salad: Caesar Salad Entree: Coconut Dolphin ~ Carved Turkey ~ Sliced Ham Steamship of Round Beef with sides Dessert: Yuletide Log and Rum Cake Price: $39.95 per adult; 19.95 per child (does not include gratuities) Advance Reservations Recommended New Year’s Eve Celebration Two seatings for this event 1st seating- 5:30 pm ~ 7:30 pm New Year’s Eve Family Dinner ~ Anglers Restaurant Featuring a limited A La Carte Menu Entertainment by Gary McDonald of The Impact Band Reservations Only New Year’s Eve Dinner & Show 2nd seating ~ 8:30 pm to Midnight ~ Anglers Restaurant Featuring Complimentary Split Champagne Entertainment by The Impact Band with a Salute to Motown Menu: Choose one item from each course Soup: Lobster Bisque or Chilled Strawberry Appetizer: Abaco Crab Cake “Rush” or Bruscetta: diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, Parmesan cheese, basil and olive oil served on toasted baguettes Salad: Fresh Spinach Salad with a warm Bacon Vinaigrette or Stacked Caprese: Buff alo mozzarella, tomatoes and basil Entree: Surf n’ Turf (Filet & Lobster) served with Duchess Potatoes and fresh vegetables or Rack of Lamb served with Saff ron Risotto and fresh vegetables Dessert: Cherries Jubilee Flambe Price: $250 per couple (gratuities included) Advance Reservations and Pre-payment required New Year’s Day Celebration Recovery Champagne Brunch Featuring a M • A • S • H Theme Party Includes: One complimentary “Mimosa” or “Bloody Mary” Entertainment by Pianist and Vocalist Stephen Colebrook Buff et Price: $23.95 per adult; 11.95 per child (Does not include gratuities) Advance Reservations Recommended First Home Show was big success December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 11 impact on the health, energy efficiency and comfort of a home.
The Icynene Insulation System which is now available on Abaco is healthier, quieter and more energy ef- ficient than some other kinds of insulation.

A demonstration by the BFI mobile van was given during the show.

Wonderland Gardens Nursery was there to take care of anyone’s landscaping desires with a wide variety of attractive plants both large and small.
Anyone interested in purchasing land or a home would have found the BREA (Bahamas Real Estate Association) booth Home Show From Page 10 covered with exquisite bedding and cosy throws, and Fine Living showing a variety of attractive smaller scale furniture and home décor items.

Owner Colette Bootle had catalogues on hand from which per- sons can order pieces with a delivery time of only two weeks since she does not have room in her small shop to display larger items.
Island Petals surprised me as, in addition to their small home décor pieces they have been known for, they also had on display a beautiful and very comfort- able overstuffed couch.

I discovered that they now have expanded premises which enables them to sell larger piec- es of furniture.

Round- ing out the furnishings section was Abaco Carpet.

helpful.
helpful.

It was manned throughout the show by a roster of BREA members who were there to educate people on what BREA is and also on what their Mul- tiple Listing Agreement means.

There were photographs many showing samples of affordable properties offered throughout Abaco within different price ranges with lot prices starting as low as $20,000 and homes within the $250,000 to $350,000 price range.
Insurance is a very important consider- ation for home own- ers and there to advise and take care of those needs were Colina In- surance and British American which also arranges mortgages.

Banks on hand to offer complete banking services were Commonwealth Bank and Scotiabank.

Providing fun for kids was Characters for Kids.

This company, which hosts par- ties, youth and promotional events, has six characters for rent and a host of novelty items.
Two of their characters were at the One of the special features of the Home Show was the raffle that give a $1000 voucher to the winner to purchase merchan- dise from any of the companies represented at the show.

The raffle tickets came with the purchase of a $10 dinner.

The win- ner was Tiffinee Poitier shown above with Mr. Sonnith Lock- hart, whose daughter drew the winning tickets home show thrilling the kids who were able to have their photograph taken with the characters.
This first very successful annual Aba- co Home Show was certainly enjoyed by many and Mrs. Missick said that she in- tends next year for it to be even bigger and better.

Standard Hardware, with a large booth outside, was able to show many power tools.

Distributors were on hand to demon- strate the equipment and tools.

Abaco Print Shop Abaco Shopping Center • Tel: 367-3202 - Fax: 367-3201 Open 9 am - 5 pm • Mon.
- Fri. For those persons planning to build or wishing remodel to the kitchen, their Kitchen Closets & More booth had many designs and colours to choose from.

Delivery takes about four to six weeks and installa- tion will be completed in two days.

Also for those planning to build, some very interesting and valuable informa- tion was available at the Bahamas Foam Insulation booth.
In- sulation has a major Page 12 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 North Abaco Cheers for One Bahamas Students from various schools in North Abaco recently welcomed the One Baha- mas celebration to the region with cheers, music and excitement at a pep rally at the S. C. Bootle High School.
“This ceremony that we held was one of the most impressive and successful that I have ever been involved in,” former Gov- ernor General of The Bahamas and One Bahamas Chairman, Sir Orville Turnquest, said at the event.

“The children were really wonderful.


The way they performed, the way they reacted, I think it was a wonder- ful, wonderful occasion really in the spirit of what One Bahamas is all about.” One Bahamas committee members, stakeholders and organisers came from New Providence and Grand Bahama for the event on Abaco.

“This is the best response that we had in all the islands,” said first Bahamian Olympic Gold medalist and One Bahamas Co-Director, Sir Durward Knowles.
“All due respect to Freeport, Grand Bahama, the children showed more enthusiasm than I have seen in my life.

Really, it is so encouraging to see the enthusiasm they had.” Senior Assistant Secretary at the Minis- try of Youth, Sports and Culture, Ricardo Deveaux, added that the young people of North Abaco were “truly outstanding” in the presentation and acceptance of the One Ba- hamas concept.
“As a representative of the Ministry, we were proud to see the young people of Abaco turn out for this ceremony and really display what One Bahamas is all about,” he said.

“I believe that if this is any indication of what is to come, I think we are in a good stead in this country.” “Given what they presented to us to- day, it is obvious that they understand the One Bahamas concept,” added Executive Director of the One Bahamas Foundation.

Ms. Patricia Francis.


“It’s about under- standing that no matter where we are in this country, we are all one, we can live and work together and we recognise on whose shoulders we stand upon as we rise and go forward.” Several students in attendance said they not only learned more about the importance of a united Bahamas, they also appreciated the visit from “living legends” to their is- land.
“They took a day out of their busy life to come speak to us and that makes me feel excited,” Chelsea Bowe, head girl at Cooper’s Town Primary School.

“The islands of The Bahamas must stay united even if they are separated by water,” she added when asked what she learned for the event.

Fellow schoolmate Deonte Pritchard added that it made him feel extra special that the One Bahamas representatives came to the island.
S. C. Bootle High School senior Kris- tie Russell said she felt that the celebra- tion was a time for teachers, students and the North Abaco public at large to come Please see Celebration Page 13 The former Governor General, Sir Orville Turnquest, reviewed the honour guard of S.C. Bootle High School students on his arrival at the school for a One Bahamas celebration.

He organized the annual event in the mid 1990s to bring all young people together.
He was very impressed with the response and enthusiasm the group received from the young people of North Abaco.

Students from six schools attended the celebration.

The official One Bahamas group attending the celebration at S.C. Bootle High School are shown here.
They are William Curry, Chief Councillor of Green Turtle Cay District; Freddie Munnings, a prominent musician from Nassau; Sir Orville Turnquest, former Governor General and Co-director of One Bahamas; Mr. Churchill Knowles-Tener, Chairman of the Grand Bahama Sports Council; Mrs. Lenora Black, Abaco’s Education Superintendent; Mr. Cecil Thompson, Deputy Director of Education and Co-chairperson for the One Bahamas Committee; Sir Durward Knowles, Co-director of One Bahamas and first Bahamian Olympic Gold medalist; Mr. Cephas Cooper, Senior Administrator for Central Abaco; and Mr. Theophilus Cox, Administrator for North Abaco.
Christmas Dinner December 25th, 2008 Seating 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00, 8:30 Soup Lobster Bisque Salad Belgian Endive, Gorgonzola and Walnut Salad Entrees Beef Wellinton with Cream Spinach and Artichokes Served` with garlic whipped potatoes and asparagus wrapped with proscuitto Rack of Lamb Honey Dijon & Brie sauce with caramelized shallot Served with garlic whipped potatoes and asparagus wrapped with proscuitto Scallops Au Gratin Sea Scallops simmered in a light garlic creme sauce and baked with Parmesan bread crumb crust Served with garlic whipped potatoes and asparagus wrapped with proscuitto Dessert Macadamia Creme Brulee Coffee or Tea Complimentary glass of Wine with dinner or Holiday Mimosas Price per person $50 plus 15% service charge Live Junkanoo Band after dinner Toast the New Year as we celebrate Our Sixth Annual Masquerade Ball which features: A Five Course Dinner ~ Party Favors A complimentary glass of Champagne on arrival A Live Junkanoo Band @ 10:00 pm First Course Cozy Shrimp with a spicy mustard dipping sauce Second Course Portabella & Brie Soup Third Course Mesculn field Green topped with Gorgonzola complimented by a touch of caramelized walnuts Fourth Course Lobster Therimidor Fresh local Lobster meat in Mornay sauce topped with cheese gratin & mushrooms.
Served with fresh buttered haricots verts and duchess potatoes Filet Oscar Grilled certified Angus Beef topped with asparagus, lump crabmeat and bearnaise sauce.

Served with fresh buttered haricots verts and duchess potatoes Fifth Course Rhapsody Cheesecake Coffee or Tea Price Per Person : $75 gratuity included North Abaco hosts One Bahamas celebration December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 13 Celebration From Page 12 together and celebrate unity.
“And I am very, very pleased that they chose northern Abaco to have this event,” she said.

“I feel that my classmates have learned a whole lot from this event, seeing that it is very important, and we have learned the impor- tance of being united.” Fellow senior Ivanisha Russell added that she liked to see so many different schools in attendance and hoped that events such as One Bahamas could happen again soon in North Abaco.
Amy Roberts Primary school sixth- grader Tyler Schreack said that he learned that everybody is “one family” and it does not matter what colour a person happens to be.

“We all come from one country,” he added.

“We can come from all over the world, and we can still live as one since we are all here in The Bahamas,” S. C. Bootle High principal Huel Moss said.
“That is the message that I hope my students get and that is what we push here as part of our whole overall objective and philosophy.” Treasure Cay Primary school sixth- grader Johnny Agusde said that he learned that “all of us are one.” “You could be any colour and all of us could be friends, not enemies,” he said.

“We must all be kind to each other.” “We are so happy to see the response that we got here today and it is so encour- aging to us,” Sir Durward said.

the laws of the country.


“Against that kind of background, they could have the ambi- tion to succeed in becoming whatever they want to be because they are the future lead- ers of this county.

The leaders must come from them,” Sir Orville said.

One Bahamas From Page 1 present to always remember what it is to be a Bahamian and not to forget their roots.
He reminded the children that regardless of color, race or creed our nationality is what unites us as one and that we all have the same rights and answer to the same laws.

He was serenaded with the song You Are My Hero sung by Adeena Cooper, a student of S.C. Bootle High.

Sir Durward presented DVD’s of his autobiography to all the schools represented.

The celebrations will leave memories in the minds of all who attended.

The service was extraordinary, informative and unique, a wonderful celebration.
The students were enthusiastic and enjoyed the event.

Anthonique Cooper, a student of S.C. Bootle High School, sang a song, You Are My Hero, specifically for Sir Durward Knowles.

He was very impressed and re- warded her with a hug shown above.
Sir Orville said he wanted the students to understand that they are the future of The Bahamas and that, if The Bahamas continues as “One Bahamas,” they must do all that they can to learn all they can in school, live together in harmony and obey Quality Star Auto Service Station And Garage Don MacKay Blvd., Marsh Harbour THE PLACE FOR YOUR ENTIRE AUTOMOBILE AND TRUCK NEEDS We stock a wide variety of parts and tyres.
If you need an item that is not in stock, we will quickly import it for you Students from five schools in North Abaco and Agape Christian School in Marsh Harbour gathered for the One Bahamas celebration.

Each school contributed entertainment.

Here students of S.C. Bootle performed a lively dance.
Open 7 am - 7 pm Monday thru Thursday 7 am - 8 pm Friday and Saturday Tel: (242) 367-2979 Page 14 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Police arrested ﬁ ve suspects in murder Murder From Page 1 tomer with groceries home.

When he re- turned, his son was dead.

According to witnesses the two masked men entered the store and struck the victim on his head, then shot him in his back as he attempted to flee, according to a witness.

He was attempting to run to the back of the store when he was shot.
Three suspects from New Providence and two from Abaco were arrested less than 24 hours later while trying to char- ter a plane to leave Abaco.

They were charged with murder in New Providence on December 2nd and held without bail.

Residents of Central Abaco were very upset by the murder of Deon Strachan on November 27.

Several hundred people gathered outside the store after the killing, loudly expressing their grief.
The police arrested five young men the next day and held them temporarily at the Police Station in Dundas Town.

This shows a crowd there, actually between 100 and 200 people, the next night.

The men were taken to Nassau so no further incident could take place.

The case was moved to New Providence for arraignment because of concern for the safety of those arrested and the officers in Abaco.

Police charged a minor, aged 17, and Lavardo Leon Rahming, both of New Providence with murder.
Police also charged Rahming, Dario Silbert Mills, 22, of Dundas Town, Jermaine Russell, 30, of Nassau and the 17-year-old minor of Nassau with conspiracy to commit armed robbery, conspiring to cause the death of Strachan and receiving $981 of the store’s cash.

Rahming and the minor are accused of possessing an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

They had a 9mm handgun and a .38 handgun as well as ammunition for both weapons.
There will be a prelim- inary inquiry to see if there is sufficient evidence for the case to go to the Supreme Court.

The case will be heard on January 16, 2009.

The fifth person arrested, Calvin Edge- combe, Jr. of Spring City, was in the hos- pital at the time of the arraignment but is expected to be arraigned when he is re- leased from the hospital.

The 17-year-old suspect in the case is also a suspect in two other murders and several attempted murders in New Provi- dence.
Police are asking all businesses to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

They said not to take anything for granted and to increase security measures through- out the day.

Police said this was the first murder on Abaco for the year and 72nd for the coun- try.
Police warn to be vigilant ABACO EXPRESS YOUR PERSONAL MAIL PLANE YOUR CHARTERED SEAT YOUR CARGO PLANE PICK UP AND COURIER SERVICE Passengers / Freight / Mail to Abaco 2532 Old Okeechobee Road Ste.11 West Palm Beach / Marsh Harbour email :abacoexppbi@bellsouth.net Ph: 561-689-1010 Fax: 561-689-9454 Bah: 242-367-3450 Boat House Restaurant New Year’s Eve Dinner December 31st, 2008 ~ Dinner served 7 pm or 8:30 pm Assorted Rolls ~ Pumpkin Biscuits ~ Garlic Rolls ~ Sundry Tomato Biscuits Appetizer ~ Grilled Beef Satay with a Jack Daniel Sauce Soup ~ Crab & Lobster Bisque Salad - Baby Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and toasted Almonds with warm vinaigrette dressing Entrees Prime Rib Oscar Style ~ Prime Rib topped with crab meat and grilled asparagus ~ $55 Boathouse Grouper ~ Macadamia nut encrusted pan seared and accompanied with shrimp and a coconut chive butter sauce ~ $50 Balsamic Glazed Roasted Duck Breast ~ Balsamic honey glazed roasted 9 oz duck breast sliced and served on a three-cheese penne pasta Alfred with vegetables ~ $50 Portabella-Stuffed Lobster ~ Lobster stuffed with crab and portabella mushroom baked in light white wine sauce ~ $55 Above comes with a soup or salad, rice or potatoes and a dessert Rice and Potato Spanish Rice Sweet Marshmallow Potatoes Dessert Lili Cake ~ Layers of lady fingers with chocolate mousse and fresh raspberries Brulee Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with orange caramel sauce Kids half price ~ Reservations required ~ Contact us on VHF Ch.
16 or Ph 366-0065 Live Music by The Islanders ~ Junkanoo Dance Exhibition Free champagne during dinner ~ Free party favors Come join us for the after party at 1 am until .

.

.

with free Chicken Souse Sea Spray Sport Fishing Getaway Come spend a week in a tropical paradise where friendliness is the norm and fishing is in abundance.
For four people Airfare round trip for 4 from South Florida 7 night stay in a 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom villa One week golf cart rental ~ 2 half day fishing charters One week 20 ft. Albury Boat rental, excluding gas $5600 Subject to availability ~ offer extended January and February 2009 (Does not include 6% government tax on villa) www.seasprayresort.com ~ info@seasprayresort.com Local clinic held a health seminar December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 15 fruit juice with no sugar added be- fore being instructed on what were the signs and symptoms of the dis- eases they were covering and be- ing lectured on the importance of a healthy diet.
The coordinator, Mrs. Margaret Daxon, a nursing officer from Nas- sau, who with two members of the Diabetic Research Institute, made a presentation on the various types of diabetes, the treatments available and the complications.

They urged people with diabetes to take special care of their feet as poor circulation associated with diabetes often create serious problems in the lower limbs.
There was a representative from Auskell Clinic who talked about re- laxation therapy and Pharmacist Ri- cardo Miller from the Island Phar- macy assisted with the screening and with one-on-one talks.

While family mem- bers were being checked, kids enjoyed a bouncing castle.

Many local businesses sponsored the event with food donations made by several stores.
A pharmaceutical company from Mrs. Margaret Daxon, a nursing officer from Nassau, spoke at the health seminar put on by the Marsh Harbour government clinic.

She discussed diabetes, giving advice on diet and healthy living habits.

Nassau donated the screening supplies.

Dr. B. Swarna, Nurse Friday Epka and several nurses participated in the event.

A similar seminar was held in Cooper’s Town on November 21 and in Sandy Point on November 22.
By Mirella Santillo On November 22nd a huge tent was set in front of the government clinic grounds to accommodate a group of approximately 60 people who met early that day to par- ticipate in a health seminar on Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases.

The semi- nar focused “on disease prevention and good health promotion,” according to the nursing officer in charge, Ms. Antoinette Cumberbatch, The day started early in the morning with a walk from the clinic to the airport.
Upon their return to the clinic, partici- pants had their vital signs taken including weight, height and waist measurement to determinate their body mass and tests were administered to verify the participants’ blood pressure, blood sugar and choles- terol levels.

Some people with abnormally high readings were sent inside to be treated immediately by the attending nurses.

Some were asked to come back the following week for more intensive investigation.
The participants were then treated to chicken sauce, wheat bread, water and real A Christmas Celebration in North Abaco By Michelle Mikula North Abaco will experience its share of festivities during the Yuletide season when a Christmas Celebration is staged at the Ball Park in Treasure Cay on De- cember 22nd.

This event which will begin at 6 p.m. will have all the trappings of a Bahamian Christmas that will be pleasing to the en- tire family.
Food, games, crafts, toys, gift items and entertainment will be in abundance.

The vibrant sounds of cow- bells, horns and goat skin drums will be blended in a colourful Junkanoo parade that is very much an important part of Christmas celebrations in the Bahamas.
The event will become even brighter and cheerful for those in attendance when the world famous Royal Bahamas Po- lice Marching and Pop Bands take cen- ter stage with their performances and the lighting of the Christmas tree, which will be beautifully decorated and remained lit throughout the holidays.

Coordinators are encouraging locals and visitors to be a part of this joyful event that is intended to put all in the Christmas spirit.
For further information on this event, please contact the Abaco Tourist Office at 367-3067.

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Ph: (242) 367-4842 l Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas May the Happiness and Good Cheer of the Holiday Season be yours throughout the New Year.

FROM MANAGEMENT & STAFF Page 16 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Phase II in Central Pines is now ready Housing From Page 2 still has to have routine Town Planning ap- proval.

The Minister insisted that while prepar- ing the next lots for construction as many native trees as possible were to be left standing.
The Minister said all govern- ment-constructed homes will now include landscaping.

It is interesting to note that the cost of the original lots in Spri ng City were sold to the old timers for $.02 per square foot as a reward for there patience and perse- verance.

Several lots at the entrance of the settle- ment have been reserved for commercial use that will make Spring City a nearly self sufficient township.

Central Pines has 94 lots in Phase II available Minister for Housing, the Hon.
Ken- neth Russell, announced that Phase II of the Central Pines Subdivision in Dundas Town is completed and that residents could now purchase lots there.

Focusing on the Central Pines II Subdivision, the Minis- ter encouraged residents to apply now to the Ministry of Housing’s office in Marsh Harbour for the new lots.

“There aren’t really many lots here.

There are 94 lots and my understanding is that we have more than 100 persons wait- ing to purchase 94 lots.
So we can see the 94 lots going in a matter of weeks because the people say they are ready and have their money.” he said.

Mr. Russell announced that the Ministry has started developing a new 200-acre sub- While the Minister of Housing, the Hon.

Kenneth Russell, was inspecting the construction of government built houses in Spring City, a BEC crew was extending the electric lines to the houses almost completed.

division in the Murphy Town area as well.


According to the Housing Minister, the original Central Pines Subdivision still has another 50 lots that are available for sale and as soon as all the lots are disposed off the Ministry will begin to look at a Phase III expansion in the Central Pines Subdivision.

Commenting on the demand for housing in Abaco, Mr. Russell said, “It is great.
In fact, we did not know how great it was until we decided to build houses in Spring City.” He said there is currently a demand for houses in northern Abaco, particularly in places like Crown Haven, Fox Town and Cooper’s Town.

While Abaco is a thriving island and the economy is great, there are still some persons in low income or middle income brackets.
These are the ones we cater to, they are the ones we are trying to ensure get a piece of the rock and get a home for themselves and their fam- ily,” he said.

Mr. Russell confirmed that the lots in Central Pines II have all services available including paved roads, water and electric- ity.

Central Pines, he said, is about 500 acres in size.
“The subdivision as designed by us has areas in it that are zoned for single family residences, duplexes and multi-fam- ily; and in this case there is some commer- cial zoning also, and some playgrounds.

We are also zoning for a church.

While in the original Central Pines the zoning areas were not adhered to, we will seek to avoid that this time.
We will work with the Local Government Town Planning Board here in Marsh Harbour to ensure that they have all the information, they know where duplex lots are, they know where the single-family lots are and they know where the church and commercial areas are.

The average cost of the lots in the Cen- tral Pines Subdivision is between $14,000 and $18,000 with the minimum size of the lots being 10,000 square feet.

The cost is $1.75 per square foot.


The original cost was $.95 per square foot when the lots were first offered.

But costs of putting in the infrastructure have gone up and gov- ernment needs to cover its costs so that the money can be used later to develop subdi- visions elsewhere.
Caribbean Marine Construction DOCK BUILDING SPECIALIST l COMMERCIAL DOCKS l BOAT LIFTS l PRIVATE DOCKS l SEA WALL CONSTRUCTION l DOCK DEMOLITION & REMOVAL Office Tel: 367.4842 Cellular: 357.6564 P.O.Box AB-20757, Marsh Harbour December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 17 SEASON’S GREETINGS TO THE FRIENDS, FAMILY AND BUSINESSES OF THE ABACO’S “MAY YOUR HOLIDAYS BE FILLED WITH JOY AND GOOD TIDINGS” Page 18 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 19 Season’s Greetings The Ladies and Gentlemen of The Abaco Club On Winding Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Managed Club, wish to take this opportunity to thank our Members, Guests, Contractors and Suppliers for your friendship and support in 2008.
We wish you and your families a happy and festive holiday season.
email: info@theabacoclub.com Website: www.theabacoclub.com Phone (Toll Free): 1.888.303.2765 Phone (Worldwide): 1.242.367.0077 Fax: 1.242.367.2930 Page 20 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 21 Page 22 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Obituaries of Family and Friends Cooper, Latanya, Eugene Jr., Larado, Decota and Nicole Rolle, Alexander III, Aliesha, Precious, Junique, Jewel and Juda Rolle, Marine Seaman Javano Edgecombe, Jenice and Jacquelle Edgecombe, Dennis, Daliesha, Moniqua, Makiva, Deangela, Deangelo and Dan Murray, Bariesha, He- liesha, Shomel, Brittany and Baranda Pin- der, Trunise, Troy, Tereka, Timothy and.
Tamara Bullard, Bethsheba, Roberto and Robyn Darville, Kevin Hepburn Jr., Wal- ternique and Brianna Saunders; nephews; nieces; sons-in-law Charles Cooper, Jenson Edgecombe, Debreth Murray, Barry Pin- der, Bishop Cedric Bullard, Robert Dar- ville, Petty Officer Corey Brown, Kevin Hepburn, Walter Saunders; daughters- in-law Sharon, Lavanne and Judy Rolle; grandsons-in-law Calton McIntosh, Kyle Knowles, Oswald Parker; granddaughter- in-law Cindy Rolle; brothers-in-law James Colebrooke, Eric Russell, Everette, Al- bert, ASP Welbourne, Drexel Bootle, Ler- man McIntosh Sr., Gary Hudson, Ornold Cornish; sisters-in-law Joyce Rolle, Geleta Armbrister, Ruthmae McIntosh, Melvern Cornish, Donna Hudson, Melrose, Lan- tamae, Eleanor and Manuleta Bootle; god children Maxwell Rolle, Rodney Laroda, Jewel, Alricia and Garth McIntosh, Sta- cey Sands; and many other relatives and friends.
Hazel Charlotte Pyfrom, widow of Hazel Charlotte Pyfrom the late Ros- cow N, Py- from, went to her Lord 7 Sunday, December, while sur- rounded by their loving d a u g h t e r s , C h a r l o t t e Pyfrom, Rosalie Pyfrom, Frances Sakach, and Catherine Pyfrom.

Mrs. Pyfrom is also survived by their grandchildren, Christina Halliday, Jeffrey Halliday, Jennifer Hal- liday and Christina Pyfrom.

Mrs. Pyfrom had been hospitalized at JFK Medical Cen- ter, Atlantis, West Palm Beach.
Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations are re- quested in her memory to Christ Church Cathedral, P.O.

Box N653, Nassau, Ba- hamas.

Felicia Latura Pritchard, 21, of Cedar Harbour died in Cedar Harbour on No- vember 28.
She is survived by her daughters Livia Brown and Marcie Moxey; father Michael Ned Pritchard Sr.; adopted mother Gwen- dolyn Bain; stepmother Vivenne Pritchard; sisters Alicia and Catherine Martin, Madea Williams, Makenna and Makayla Pritchard, Fenicia Cornish, Suzette Molly, Ingrid and Ericka Bain; brothers David Johnson, Ron- denero, Serrano and Michael Pritchard Jr., Stephen Clarke, Leonard Whyms, Osmond Munnings, Clarence and Frederick Bain; nieces; nephews; aunts; uncles; and many other relatives and friends.
The funeral for Cecil Alexander Forbes, 61, of Treasure Cay and formerly of Wood Cay, was held on December 7 at Full Gos- pel Assembly God in Treasure Cay.

Rev.

Patrick Paul and Rev.

Stafford Symonette officiated assisted by Bishop Clifford Hen- field.

Interment followed in the Treasure Cay Community Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife Olive Forbes; children Cecile Forbes, Deneisha Emile, Lynn, Toyin, Rayan, Travan and Chris- hantie; adopted children John McIntosh, Samantha Duverney, Charmaine Bootle and Monique Laing; grandchildren Miguel, Raven and Zahara; adopted grandchildren Miranda, Tanya, Judah, Maygan, Raveyn, Elijah; great-grandchild Asia; son-in-law Levar Emile; adopted sons-in-law Lou- bert Duverney, Clifton Bootle and Tyrone Laing; adopted daughter-in-law Lorinda McIntosh; adopted sisters Roselyn Rus- sell, Marica Roberts, Marilyn Cornish and Orita Munroe; sisters-in-law Evelyn Hen- field, Sheila and Gail Sands, Deborahmae Douglas, Vernette Saunders, Michelle, Janet, Cheryl and Tracey Sands; brothers- in-law Ruel Smith, Bishop Clifford Hen- field, Charles, Kevin, Sidney, Sultan and Michael Sands, Tony Douglas, Nehemiah Saunders; adopted brothers-in-law Eric “Benny” Russell and Vernal Cornish; aunt Muriel Forbes; aunts-in-law Danilia Hep- burn, Geraldine Cooper and Modina Hep- burn; uncle-in-law Arnold Hepburn; nieces and nephews including Jennifer Saunders, Tiffany, Sanfa, Neil, Jewel and Zhivargo Pratt, Mizpah McIntosh, Mark and Lakei- sha Douglas, Nekera and Nemara Saunders, Lt. Darren Henfield, Genova Wilmore, Sheinrece Rolle, Tremis Sands, Stacy An- derson, Alonzo Williams, Sabrina Sawyer, Inez and Taran Maynard, Vito Russell, Tra- vis and Micheala Sands, Demetrius Russell, Evanya and Taj Roberts; and many other relatives and friends.
The funeral for Alexander Rolle, Sr., 76, of Cooper’s Town was held on Decem- ber 6th at the Church Of God Cathedral.

Bishop Archilus Cooper officiated assisted by Bishop Cedric Bullard and other min- isters.

Interment followed in the Public Cemetery in Cooper’s Town.
He is survived by his wife Isabella Rolle; sons Hector Sr., Freeland, Eugene Sr. and Alexander Jr. and Joshua Rolle; daughters Oseta Cartwright, Deborah Cooper, Rosie Edgecombe, Monica Murray, Helen Pin- der, Gertrude Bullard, Bethseba Darville, Sheleke Brown, Paulette Hepburn, Isabella Saunders; adopted children Lington Rolle and George McIntosh; brother Nathan Rolle; sister Reva Colebrooke; grandchil- dren Ludwig, Luthana and Lakita Cart- wright, Lavina McIntosh, Lorell Knowles, Niki, Tosheba, Hector Jr. and Tyler Rolle, Tori, Sherise, Shakara and Freelander Rolle, Fatima Parker, Charles Jr., Char- lene, Chauncey, Cordero and Danielle More Letters to the Editor Letters From Page 8 portunity, perhaps one day a young Aba- conian will be able to compete for their nation.
That would really be something to be proud of!

The benefits of this community effort go far beyond the obvious.

The residents of the out islands get together for a positive purpose.

The children swim with the en- tire community cheering them on no mat- ter how well they finish.

What a wonderful way for a community to come together.

What a wonderful way for a kid to see how much their community cares about them, a public show of support for all of the young people.
What a memory, what an esteem builder.

Yes, there is water all around, who needs a pool?

But how many inter-island swim meets did you see in the harbours?

Hope Town could be like so many other islands of the Bahamas with yet another failed project in its midst due to lack of community support.

Certainly, no one would be surprised.

For those of you whose ego would like to see the pool project fail, please consider that this failure reflects on all of Abaco no matter what your opinion.
If any nation should hold as a priority the value of their water resources, it would be an island na- tion like The Bahamas.

I am amazed that the priorities of the community do not lie with ensuring that ALL the children in Abaco can swim and can learn to enjoy the water.

On a more personal note if the residents of Abaco and of Hope Town do not see the benefits of this project, it certainly is of no benefit to me personally.
I believe it is a worthwhile endeavor and I know that many children have already learned to swim and have benefitted from the pool.

I have elect- ed to remain an anonymous donor because I have no interest in notoriety.

I love this December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 23 place and the people here.

If you choose to let this project go, it will be disappointing; but it is certainly your choice as a commu- nity.
The intention of this letter is to insure that the community is aware of this situ- ation and can make an informed decision before it is made for you.

Please contact Lighthouse Marina 242- 366-0154, Elbow Cay Properties 242-366- 0035 or Hope Town Hidaways 366-0224 to see how you can support this important community project.

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“Best Beach in the Caribbean” Caribbean Travel & Life Magazine Toll Free Reservations: 800-563-0014 Merry Christmas Treasure Cay, Abaco, Bahamas Phone: 242-365-8500 Fax: 242-365-8501 www.BahamaBeachClub.com Page 24 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Central Abaco News Wine Experience 2008 By Jennifer Hudson Abaco’s first annual Wine Experience was held under the marquee at the Abaco Beach Resort on December 5.
This Grand Wine Tasting event was organized by the Burns House Group and over 40 wines from all of the major wine growing regions of the world were featured.

Eight tables were laid out each manned by a member of the Burns House Group and each table held a different variety of wine: Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc/Riesling, Sparkling Wine/Champagne, various reds and blends.
Many popular names were on display such as Louis Jadot, Kedall Jack- son, Jacob’s Creek, Frogs Leap, Masi, Jo- seph Phelps, Cavit, and Tattinger as well as some of the lesser known producers.

There was something to suit everyone with prices ranging from very affordable to the more pricey.

Wines could be purchased at the Burns House Wine Shop in the marquee for a 30 percent discount and anyone purchasing wines was eligible for a drawing for a gift basket of wines.
Graycliff signature cigars were also on sale.

Several persons from the Burns House Group in Nassau were on hand to assist and were rather surprised at the low turnout for the event on Abaco.

The Wine Experi- ence had previously been held in Nassau at the Sheraton Cable Beach where more than 300 people attended and in Freeport at the Westin Our Lucaya where there were more than 100.

On Abaco numbers did not even reach the 50 mark.

However, those that did attend appeared to thoroughly en- joy the event.
The organizers say that they will try it here again next year and hope for larger numbers.

Abaco’s first Wine Experience was held at Abaco Beach Resort and was enjoyed by peo- ple in Central Abaco.

This was an event of Burns House Group that holds similar events in Nassau and Freeport.

Shown above are Brian Thompson, Kendy Anderson, Cassandra Hardy, Wynsome Ferguson, Nicki Ferguson and Oman Forbes.

BEC held a training course on the maintenance and operation of their diesel engines, both large and small.
Shawn Miller from Nassau was the technical trainer who worked with Leonardo Moxey, assistant manager of generation on Abaco.

Eight employees took the five-day course.

Included were lessons in diesel engine theory as well as hands-on practical experience.

Equipment studied ranged from diesel engines in pick-up trucks and larger trucks to the huge stationary diesel engines at the generating plant.
Shown above are, front row, Mr. Miller, Mr. Moxey, Lazaro Cornish, Kyle Smith, David Hepburn and Adrian Russell.

In the back are Teron Gilbert, Arthur Roberts and Tracey Scott.

More Central Abaco News December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 25 BAIC offered shell craft class By Mirella Santillo The second Shell Jewelry Class of the year, sponsored by Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation, ended on December 5th.
On that day the 16 ladies from Murphy Town and Dun- das Town who attended the class taught by Mrs. Lovely Reckley met for a last time to complete the creations they had started and display their inven- tory.

During the ten-day course Mrs. Reckley taught her students how to utilise shells for decorating and creating objects.

She showed them how to do macrame knots that they used to make necklaces and bracelets.
For some such as Mrs. Elizabeth Cornish, who decorated mirrors and made some napkins holders, it was a first time class.

Others such as Ms. Judith Nesbitt attended most of arts and craft classes of- Please see Central Page 26 Abaco Block and Concrete Company in Murphy Town annually donates to needy people in Murphy Town.

This Christmas it presented twenty gift certificates for food for the needy to be redeemed at Price Right.
The recipients will be determined by the Murphy Town Association with Cleveland Dawkins as president.

This is the fourth year that Abaco Block and Concrete has made this Christmas donation, one of many contributions it makes to the Murphy Town community.

Presenting the certificates to Mr. Dawkins are Rebecca Russell and Shawna Sands.

Sixteen ladies of Central Abaco took a course on making crafts and jewelry with shells.
The course was offered by the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation and was taught by Lovely Reckley of Marsh Harbour.

The beginners learned the basics of shell craft while those experienced in shell craft learned more advanced techniques.

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New comers or veterans, they all said they enjoyed the class, learnt a lot and thought Mrs. Reckley was an ex- cellent teacher.
She paid a lot of attention to her students working with each of them checking on how they were doing, correct- ing or advising.

Besides the usual mirror or picture frame decoration, there were a lot of innovative creations such as business cards holders, candle holders and condiment dishes made of locally found shells.

Other creations were made with store-bought shells and supports such as hair combs, napkin holders, shell balls or brooch.

Mrs. Owanta McDonald added pearls to the shells.


Mrs. Amanda Davis used brightly colored nail polish to enhance the shells.

Many had used large conch shells to make lamps and some had made shell sculptures.

There was even a Baker’s employees donated to needy turtle made of a large cowrie and smaller bleeding teeth for fins, head and tails.

The evening ended with refreshments prepared by the students and the presenta- tion of a perfume set gift to Mrs. Reckley.
There will be an award ceremony for the attendants of both classes (the first one took place in late spring) in the new year.

New Businesses Siaha’s Jerk Pit and Restaurant By Samantha V. Evans The week of November 11th Oswald Nixon, the owner of Siaha’s Jerk Pit and Restaurant, opened his restaurant next to Shell Gas station in Dundas Town.

For the past five years Mr. Nixon operated from a trailer in the same spot but decided to expand the business into a full restaurant.
The restaurant specializes in all Bahamian cuisine including down home dishes includ- ing desserts like grandma used to make.

They cook all types of jerk dishes includ- ing pork, chicken, fish, and conch.

They also offer crawfish pasta, ginger lemonade and other specialty drinks.

They cater to private functions and to schools upon re- quest.

The phone number at the restaurant is 367-2605.

The store hours are Tuesday through Thursdat 12 noon to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 12 noon to 10 p.m.
They are closed on Sunday and Monday.

Nails by Iris By Samantha V. Evans Students have an opportunity to get their nails professionally prepared at a discount- ed price at Nails by Iris.

Located in Cathe- rine’s Beauty Salon a few doors down from the Island Bakery, Iris specializes in sculp- tured nails, pedicures and manicures.

Iris is not new to this profession and is proud to be back offering the best nail service on the island.

She can be contacted for an ap- pointment by calling 442-7103.
Maxwell’s building is underway Simone Bowe organized a drive with the employees of Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club to contribute food and clothing items to families in need.

This was in answer to a plea by Heal Our Land as its supplies were running low.
Shown here are Pastor Earlin Bail- lou and Mrs. Joan Baillou, both counselors with Heal Our Land; Mrs. Cleola Pinder, Secretary of Heal Our Land; Ms. Simone Bowe, Director HR and Training with Baker’s Bay; Mrs. Kathleen Knowles, President of Heal Our Lnad; and Dr. Livingston Marshall, Senior Vice President of Environmental and Community Affairs of Baker’s Bay.

Progress is being made on the new building for Maxwell’s Supermarket on Pole Line Drive.
Owner Chad Sawyer is hopeful that he’ll be able to open in the spring.

It has been designed to work much more efficiently that the original store that burned down in July.
Sweetheart Weekend February 13-14, 2009 Sweetheart Weekend Friday, February 13-14, 2009 Enjoy a Romantic Dinner Featuring an A La Carte Menu Entertainment by Pianist and Vocalist Stephen Colebrook In Anglers Restaurant Friday, Feb 13th 2009 Advance Reservations Recommended Sweetheart Ball Package Saturday February14, 2009 “Optional Vow Renewal” Includes a Champagne Strawberry Cocktail In the Marquee Time: 6:30pm-7:00pm Sweetheart Ball Dinner and Show Featuring International Wine Tasting Entertainment: 7 pm - 8 pm Luther Vandross Classics Best “Love Songs” ever recorded 8 pm until .
New Entry Band with a Salute to “Motown” Hors d’oeuvres will be passed All Sea Food: Seared Ahi Tuna on wonton skins with wasabi cream, Smoked Salmon Mousse, Lobster en croute Salad: Mixed Baby Greens with Raspberry Vinaigrette Entrees: Grilled Angus Beef Filet Oscar served with three jumbo Shrimp, sauteed spinach and bearnaise sauce and Marquise potatoes and fresh a sparagus Dessert: Brandy Flamed Cherries Jubilee with Vanilla Ice Cream Price: $150.00 per couple (gratuities included) Advance Reservations and pre-payment required More Central Abaco News December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 27 Construction at Abaco Central High School shows progress Two new buildings are under construction at Abaco Central High School.
This shows the new administration building that will have offices for the principal and vice princiapl, a reception area, student sick bay, staff lounge, rest rooms and a kitchenette.

It is being constructed by Jones Construction Co. Ltd and is expected to be completed early in the spring.

This replaces an administration building that was burned down three years ago.

The second building is a block with three classrooms for technical training.
This con- struction is being done by Williams & Sons Construction Co. Ltd.

It will include rest rooms and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

BEC observed Safety Month By Jennifer Hudson November 27th was celebrated as Cus- tomer Appreciation Day at Bahamas Elec- tricity Corporation.

In order to say thank you to its customers, the Abaco office was giving out bags of fresh fruit which proved very popular.
According to Executive Sec- retary, Mrs. Beverley Archer, the corpo- ration decided, instead of the normal food spread, to give away bags of fresh fruit in keeping with its theme of health and safety.

Customer Appreciation Day brought to a climax Health and Safety Month which had been observed throughout November by BTC.

Although observed in previous years in Nassau, this was the first year that the Abaco office has joined in.

Events were held at the Marsh Harbour office.


Nurse Sears from the Marsh Harbour Government Clinic was present on two of the days from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to do free blood pressure checks which, according to Mrs. Archer, were very well attended.

Customers found to have blood pressure problems were given medical advice.

Another very popular event was the Portable Fire Extinguisher Training by Sgt.
Johnson of the Police/Fire Depart- ment assisted by Mr. Danny Sawyer from the Marsh Harbour Volunteer Fire Depart- ment.

“Many people have portable fire extinguishers in their home in case of an emergency, and yet we found that few know how to use them,” said Mrs. Archer.

The demonstrations were very practical and extremely useful.

An outstanding First Aid presentation was given by Mr. John Pintard.
He encompassed a wide range of situations which included CPR, accidents on the road, electrical burns, fractures, unconsciousness and stroke.

A National Insurance Session was pre- sented by Mr. Gordon Musgrove, Manager of the Abaco National Insurance Office.

The Management of Bahamas Electric- ity Corporation was very pleased with the response to its first Health and Safety Month events.
North Abaco Christmas Celebration Royal Bahamas Police Band Games • Toys • Crafts • Food • Junaknoo Dec 22 • 6 pm • Treasure Cay Ballpark Page 28 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Viewpoint .

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Protection does not require national park status By J.F.

Hedden The subject of the environment and eco- logical health always remains a priority topic in my mind, but I would certainly not categorise myself as an earth angel.
As development takes place anywhere in the world there is a trade off between the economy, earnings and profits.

To date the environment has usually taken a back seat to financial benefits.

Recently, how- ever, more consciousness has been devoted to the implementation of environmentally thoughtful designs and concepts in propos- als for developmental projects.
Some of these have been genuine and for Abaco, the Schooner Bay development seems to be making a serious attempt to conserve space, resources, the natural her- itage and also traditional construction de- signs.

This for a Bahamian project is both unusual and innovative.

Conversely, we have other proposals which seem to promote environmental con- sciousness through rhetoric only, with no real commitment to the conservation of our heritage, be it historical or natural.
One such has been the Valencia Group proposal for the Hole-in-the-Wall peninsula.

Others, of course, have sought to take advantage of public lands, obtaining them for a mere nominal valuation on their true worth.

These include Winding Bay and the apparently defunct Snake Cay project.
Public perceptions and opinions have been rigorously expressed over some, and the Elbow Cay residents have voiced very loudly over the Joe’s Cay proposal, with the apparent resulting success of a scaled down construction programme waiting to be approved.

Of course, the subject of protection be- comes uppermost in the minds of the en- vironmentalists, and the need to conserve and reserve areas of Abaco close to the set- tlements used extensively for leisure pur- poses most dominant.
It would appear to me that over the last few years opposition to development has taken place for almost every piece of coastline around the Sea of Abaco, including the offshore smaller cays and islands.

Some in my mind are valid, case in point.

The creek system behind Cherokee settlement, known as O’Neil’s Creek, has been abused and over exploited for many years, mainly by the good people of Cher- okee and Casuarina Point with some assis- tance from those of more distant habitat.
Illegal netting, use of spears and compres- sors, harvesting of rollers (baby conch) and the like have decimated marine populations for years.

It still continues.

Now the move to protect it becomes real and genuine.

Other areas are perceived as being threatened, and one such is the creek sys- tem just to the south of Snake Cay, which I refer to as the Angel Cay System (ACS).
This is truly a wonder to behold, not only by boat but also from the shoreline along the edge of the pine forest, full of life and obviously a thriving part of the surround- ing marine ecosystems.

It always makes me consider why two such areas in close proximity have been exploited in such different ways.

Both are heavily trafficked and both are fished.

Yet the ACS is full of adult and immature ex- ploited species and has been for the last 25 years.
O’Neil’s, on the other hand, is grossly over fished and depleted.

Now a move is afoot sponsored by the National Trust (BNT) and implemented by Friends of the Environment (FOE) to turn the whole of the creek systems from Snake Cay to O’Neil’s Creek into a national park because it holds so much as a marine re- source.

This immediately brings several questions to mind which neither BNT or FOE have managed to answer yet.

But as usual I must be slower than most.


The main question is “Why does this area need to be- come a national park?

Sure, it needs to be maintained and “protected from rampant anchor project development,” but park sta- tus is not going to guarantee any greater protection than does exist now.

Another question that comes to mind is How many of these protectionists have actually traversed the cay road running through O’Neil’s Creek and ending up on the edge of the Bight of Old Robinson?
How many of them extensively access the wilderness areas of the west side of Abaco, which to my mind is much more significant as a marine resource and is in more urgent need of protection before it becomes too late as has happened in the case of Chero- kee creeks.

Sure, the Bahamas is signatory to a myr- iad of international environmental treaties with a binding to protect a significant por- tion of our natural resources.
But this does not mean that we have to turn everything into a national park to protect it.

And if we do, how do we then protect it anyhow?

The Bahamas government certainly does not have the funding, and quasi govern- mental organisations such as the Bahamas National Trust have expressed their own concern over a budgetary shortfall of one hundred million dollars (B$100,000,000) for the last ten years.
I guess what will happen is that in the end the public will have to shoulder the responsibility of pro- tecting what they already do now.

Makes sense to me?

Perhaps the answer really lies in proper zoning regulations and a major drive for public education.

After all, isn’t this what the BNT and FOE claim to be all about.
Neither has proven to be either outspoken or activist even when their own boundar- ies have suffered insurgencies, or when the threat of anchor projects and the BEC sit- ing have infringed on our heritage.

My solution for this area is as follows: From Witch Point down to the peninsula of Wilson city be declared an ecologically sensitive area, with the zoning and restric- tions on development to match.
The Witch Point area of Crown land should be perma- nently designated as public land and given free and total access by the public for rec- reational use such as beaching, picnicking and the like.

Snake Cay should be maintained as pub- lic land and development encouraged with- in the co-operative framework to maintain public ownership and the perception of the same.
As far as national park status is concerned, there are many other areas of Abaco and the rest of The Bahamas which are much more threatened but suffer from a severe lack of publicity and sponsorship.

One example would be the Atlantic coast of Mayaguana with its miles and miles of beaches and creeks teeming with marine life.

Let’s get real about this.


December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 29 South Abaco News Cherokee Sound By Lee Pinder Kids Doing Their Part Our local kids from Kid’s Korner start- ed a project to raise funds for kids in need on Inagua after the hurricanes hit there this past year.

The children got their moms to bake homemade goodies that they took to various parts of the settlement on three con- secutive Fridays to sell.

Many people gave additional donations to help the children reach their goal.
All together they raised $1,240.

The monies were sent to Mr. Co- lin Ingraham on Inagua who was in charge of seeing that it got to the most needy.

Mr. Ingrham promised to have the children cor- respond with our children here about their experiences during the hurricanes and how their donations were utilized.

Project leader, Ellen Curry, would like to thank the community for participating in this very worthy project.
She told me how touched she was at the enthusiasm and benevolence of our children in wanting to help others less fortunate.

She noted how very blessed we are and suggested that we might all like to remember others at this time of the year and do something, no mat- ter how small, for someone else.
She said, “You will see how even little things mean so much to others in need.” Treat Packages for Thanksgiving Again, Kids Korner kids were thinking of others as they put together a very at- tractive, and I might add delicious, plates of sweets for the Old Folks of Cherokee.

Again, moms helped out and prepared the home baked goodies, but the packaging was really outstanding.
Their goal was to make the seniors feel special and I’m sure Many young people of Cherokee Sound attend an after school Christian club called Kids Korner at Epworth Chapel held on Wednesday afternoons.

Some of them are shown here with one of their leaders, Ellen Curry.

that’s just how they felt when the beauti- fully wrapped packages were delivered.

Ellen says this is the first year they have attempted this, but assures me it will not be the last.
Kids Korner is held every Wednesday afternoon after school with an aim towards bringing Christianity into these young peo- ple’s lives.

This year there are three lead- ers, Ellen Curry, Eleanor Jorgensen and Doreen Albury.

I applaud these women for a job well done.

Senior Citizen’s Tea The community along with the school children honoured our senior citizens with a Tea on November 26 at the W.W. Sands Community Center in Cherokee Sound.
Approximately 30 people attended the Tea and enjoyed an hour of socializing with “old” friends.

Many of our seniors are housebound and don’t get out very often.

Most of them were pleased to be able to enjoy an afternoon’s outing to visit with family and friends that otherwise they don’t have an opportunity to see very of- ten.

The weather was delightful, a warm 80 degrees with a beautiful blue sky and a light breeze, which made the event even more enjoyable.
AID’s Awareness Day Cherokee Primary School was visited by Mrs. Sandy Edwards, Curriculum Officer for the Housing and Family Development Department.

The purpose of her visit was to discuss with our youth the importance of being aware of AIDS and the HIV virus.

She pointed out that this health problem has been around since 1981 and over 510,000 deaths have been attributed to it since that time with very little progress being made in its eradication.
Mrs. Edwards gave a very informative presentation and brought two young men with her that have been diagnosed with the HIV virus who also spoke with the chil- dren.

They were all impressed with how informed our students were and with the general discussion and question and an- swer period following her talk.
Drive Safely Watch for School Children Frederik F. Gottlieb and Co. Wishes Its Clients Best Wishes for the Holidays & throughout the New Year Counsel & Attorneys Notaries Public Marsh Harbour, Abaco Page 30 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 Club News Thanksgiving on Abaco By Rita Wieczorek Rear Commodore, RMHYC Members of the Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club have been gathering the last couple of weeks as they return for an- other winter season in sunny Abaco.
We have had a November social and have our regular scheduled Yacht Club meetings on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays on the VHF radio channel 78 at 8 a.m.

The men’s and women’s walking groups have started walking every day except Sunday when we rest and go to church services.

About 70 percent of the boats have returned this year to Boat Harbour, some on the hook or on mooring balls and others at various mari- nas close to Abaco Beach Resort.
Thanksgiving was celebrated by citizens from the United States, joined by Canadian friends who also like to party.

Robert and I attended a dinner at Anglers with about 30 other friends.

We had six tables and the menu was terrific.

The band played songs from the 60s and 70s.

The musicians looked at the crowd and played the music of our era.

There was also a Thanksgiving party aboard the m/v John Henry for the Dock 4 crowd.

I understand they had two turkeys and all the trimmings.
They had two set- tings for the hungry group, one in the af- ternoon and one in the evening.

Of course, there were other parties aboard other boats and some at other marinas on Abaco.

The RMHYC group is organizing its work at Every Child Counts and Buck-A- Book.

I expect that members will also join the food drive at the Jib Room for families that can use extra food during this holi- day season.
The members are thrilled to be guests in The Bahamas, and they look forward to many community activities as a way to give back to the generous people who live and work on the island!
Discovery Club Awards Ceremony By Mirella Santillo The Discovery Club, an after-school ed- ucational program for students sponsored by Friends of the Environment, celebrated the end of the first semester with a cer- emony organized by the leaders and acted out by the students in front of an audience consisting of parents and members of the organization.

The children were divided in two groups according to their ages.

The younger ones were the Explorers, the older ones the Guardians.
One by one the Explorers took turns de- scribing the marine mammals or the aquat- ic plants they had learnt about.

The Guardians acted out skits to tell the audience about their field trips or the activ- ities they took part in during the semester.

Pedro Maycock and De Shane Knowles de- scribed what they saw during outings to the shores.

Sujith Swarna and Andrew Hanna talked about the coral reef.
Amber Mar- tinborough and Yael Sawyer attended the clean-up at Crossing Beach where they col- lected over 100 pounds of garbage.

They deplored that the visitors did not tidy after themselves and thought that garbage bins would help resolve part of the problem.

In between remarks by the leaders, the students performed two songs written by Mr. Enzil Cooper one of the leaders of the club.
The first one, I’m gonna fish respon- sibly, was a reminder not to catch under- sized fish and lobsters and to respect the fishing season.

The second song described the ambient marine habitat.

Mr. Cooper and Mrs. Joy Chaplin were the leaders for the Guardians.

Each child was presented with marine badges and FRIENDS’ membership cards by Mrs. Kristin Williams, Executive Di- rector of Friends, and Mr. David Knowles of the Bahamas National Trust.
Students who attended all the meetings and partici- pated in all the activities were presented with a special Model Badge.

Those who at- tended all the meetings received a Perfect Attendance Badge.

Mrs. D’Shan Maycock, Educational Of- ficer, informed the audience that each stu- dent joining the Discovery Club was given a T- shirt, a Bahamas National Trust mem- bership card and a Friends of the Environ- ment membership card along with earned badges and a sash.
Parents and students were reminded that the Discovery Club will resume on Janu- ary 12th when the participants will learn all about bugs.

Anchor Club Initiation and Installation Ceremony By Samantha V. Evans The Initiation and Installation Ceremo- ny for the 2008-09 Anchors was held on Saturday November 15th at Abaco Youth Ministries.

A total of four schools were represented: Forest Heights, St. Francis de Sales, Abaco Central High, and Central Abaco Primary Schools.
Officers serving this year are: President of Abaco Central High School, Kadesha Scott; President of St. Francis de Sales, Vickarieo Major; President of Forest Heights, Telia Bur- rows; and President of Central Abaco Pri- mary School, Malesha Joseph.

They all pledged to work hard to make Abaco clubs number one in the entire district.

Discovery Club members received awards for participation in the club activities.
The club is sponsored by Friends of the Environment to help the youth appreciate the environment.

The club members go on field trips and the emphasis this fall was on marine life.
The Owners and Management wish you a Memorable Holiday Season and a Blessed and Prosperous New Year Abaco should consider appealing to niche markets December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 31 By Julian Lockhart As Abaco starts to feel the pinch of the American financial crisis through the di- minishing number of tourist, it is time for the Abaco Tourist Office as well as part- ners to look at alternative attractions to lure visitors to the shores of Abaco.
This is where niche tourism plays a part in the overall specter of the business with the op- portunity to reach out to a new clientele through innovative business ideas.

Some forms of niche tourism already occur on Abaco with international wed- dings and people coming in specifically for fishing expeditions.

While more can be done to attract fishing fans from not only America, but from around the world, it is also expensive with the cost of fuel and docking charges for individual boats and yachts.
However, with the dwindling schools of bonefish in Florida, Abaco can be pushed as a destination of choice for the bonefisherman who wants to cast his fly rod on Abaco instead of just Andros and Bimini.

Abaco is known for its acres upon acres of natural forest teaming with hundreds of beautiful birds of all colors of the rainbow, Anchors assist with clothes drive not counting the Bahamian parrot, which delight any bird watcher.
Bird watching can be an attraction to those who just love to watch God’s winged creatures in their natural environment, and it allows them to do so with the beach at their back door.

Thousands of tourists go to New Provi- dence every year just to scuba dive and nothing else.

Scuba diving is advertised and pushed internationally by the companies in New Providence.
Guests come from all over the world just to dive one of the many wrecks or reefs off New Providence and spend a week delving into the wonders of the deep.

Abaco has many more reefs than New Providence and they are prettier and more expansive, not to mention the walls, caves and blue holes which can attract the avid diver to these shores.
Scuba diving should be one of the main attractions of Abaco as those who are in- terested in diving, just like those who play golf, travel no matter what state the econo- my is in for a fix of their favorite pastime.

There are numerous small entities of Abaco that, if marketed properly to the in- ternational traveling market, could entice a number of travelers to look at this island as an alternative to their usual path for re- laxation.
It only takes some imagination and the partners within the tourism sector to think outside the box and look elsewhere for tourist dollars besides the norm of winter residents and boaters.

Substitute Lionﬁ sh for Grouper in your meals On November 24th the Anchors of Abaco Central High School and Central Abaco Pri- mary School along with their advisors Neulessa Lundy-Major and Phillipa Farrington assisted Abaco Youth Ministries with its clothing drive.
The Anchors made the posters and encouraged persons to stop by the booths to collect clothing that was being given away for free.

This is just one of the community activities that the Anchors will take part in throughout this school year.

bahamian cuisine on Hope Town’s waterfront Bar Opens Daily 10 a.m. Closed on Tuesdays Happy Hour 5 - 6 p.m.
Lunch & Dinner Daily Lunch 11:30 am - 3 pm • Dinner 6 - 9 pm Appetizers 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m Call 366-0087 • 366-0292 • VHF Ch 16 RENTAL BIKES I C E Page 32 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 School News At last the results were announced: S.C. Bootle won the wedding cake decorating competition, the fruit and vegetable carv- ing and the napkin folding.

Abaco Central High won the three categories (beginners, intermediate1 and intermediate2) of cake decorating.
The event was organized by Mrs. Simms and Mrs. Princess Williams, home eco- nomic teacher at Abaco Central.

S.C. Boo- tle students were accompanied by home economic’s teacher, Ms. Michelle Clarke, and mathematics teacher, Ms. Altaliese Cartwright.

Mrs. Agatha Simms, head of the Home Economics Department at Abaco Central High School, was cooking fritters and fried chicken helped by two students to be sold to those attending.
Guava duff was offered Please see School Page 34 Students of Abaco Central High School and S.C. Bootle High School competed in cake decorating and fruit and vegetable carving at the Abaco Central school.

The S.C. Bootle team arrived with caps and aprons, looking very professional.

The advanced groups competed in decorating a wedding cake.
Friends of the Environment 5th Annual South Abaco Christmas Bird Count December 20, 2008 Bird count to take place near Abaco National Park Three grades of difficulty - Easy, Moderate and Bushwacker Meet at Friend’s Office 6 a.m. to carpool $7 charge includes Audobon fee Take your own lunch, snack and beverages For further information call Anita at 367-2721 or anita@friendsoftheenvironment.org Awards Day at Abaco Central High School By Mirella Santillo On November 27th Abaco Central High School held a special ceremony to acknowl- edge the students who had performed espe- cially well during the last school year.
The function was moderated by Senior assistant, Mr. Vincent Coakley, and vari- ous students participated in the event, pro- nouncing the invocation, addressing the welcome, performing musical pieces and introducing the guest speaker, Bishop An- thony Campbell.

Many students were rewarded, among them four who passed the BGCSE: Ash- ley Whilly, Bethsheba Darville, Kendero Murray and Agnola Thompson.

Twelve students passed the BJC and Shaquille John- son made the Principal’s List with a 3.80 GPA.
Twenty-one students were cited on the Honor Roll such as Sasha Davis with a 3.48 GPA, Rahede Smith with a 3.45 GPA, Zandria Wells with a 3.36 GPA.

Two more boys followed closely, Carlos Decius with a 3.32 GPA and Jackson Jacques with a 3.24 GPA.

The subject awards were presented by Ms. Vanessa James, Principal; Ms. Domi- nique McCartney, Vice-Principal and the PTA President, Mr. David Lightbourn.
Mrs Sandy Edwards made a presenta- tion on AIDS awareness explaining facts about the disease and warning the students about promiscuity.

Three students were cited for perfect attendance; they were Amelia Burrows, Rose Previlon and Jason Vilma.

The ceremony was followed by lunch and early dismissal.
Food Presentation Compeition By Mirella Santillo Students from the two public high schools gathered on December 6th at Ab- aco Central High School in Murphy Town to participate in a cake icing, fruit and veg- etable carving, napkin folding and towel creation competition.

Nine students from each school, Abaco Central and S.C. Boo- tle High School, entered the various con- tests.

The competitors were divided into beginners, intermediate 1, intermediate 2 and advanced.
The first event was cake icing which took place in a class room.

Each partici- pant was given one and a half hour to deco- rate a cake.

Some recreated a model such as a car or a cartoon character while others performed free lance designs on a round cake.

While the beginners and intermedi- ates were occupied with their decoration, the advanced students separated into groups to tackle the wedding cakes, one for each school.

They were allowed three hours to accomplish their task.
Outside, two tables were laid with canta- loupes, water melons and an array of vege- tables, sweet peppers, carrots and radishes ready for the carving artists who would turn them into little tropical landscape mas- terpieces.

Other tables were piled up with towels and paper napkins, also awaiting the hands that would transform them into an elephant, a snake, a rabbit or a swan.

Judges were strolling from tables to tables, making notes and commenting on the results.
Happy Holidays to all our valuable customers & friends.

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Albury’s Trucking Ltd. Tel: (242) 367-2976 Email: abacocustoms@batelnet.bs VHF 16 December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 33 GOVERNMENT NOTICES Ofﬁ ce of the Prime Minister Commonwealth of The Bahamas Island of New Providence Notice of Investigation Take Notice that pursuant to Section 4 of the Acquisition of Land Act, Chapter 252 Statute Laws of The Bahamas 2000, it appears to the Minister Responsible for the Acquisition and Disposition of Lands, that the Land described in the Schedule hereto is likely to be needed for the public purpose of construction of a Public Road and for uses re- lated thereto.
And Further Take Notice that the Minister and his servants or workmen may either generally or spe- cifically authorise any person to do all or any of the following things, namely: (a) Enter upon and survey and take levels of the said land or any part thereof; (b) Dig or bore into the sub-soil of the said land; (c) Do all acts necessary to ascertain whether the said land is adapted for the public purpose outlined; (d) Set out the boundaries of the said land and the intended line of Work (if any) proposed to be made thereon; (e) Mark such levels, boundaries and lines by placing marks and cutting trenches on the said land; (f) For the purpose of carrying out the foregoing (if necessary) cut down clear any standing crop, fence, tree or bush; (g) Do all such other acts as may be incidental to or necessary for any of the purposes aforesaid.
A copy of the Plan of the said land may be in- spected commencing on the 3rd day of November AD., 2008 at the Department of Lands and Sur- veys situate at Bay and Armstrong Streets between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday.

Dated this 27th day of October A. D., 2008.
Hubert A. Ingraham, Minister Responsible for the Acquisition and Disposition of Lands Schedule All that certain piece or parcel of land being a proposed highway 100 feet wide and shown on an extract of a map of Abaco sheets 10 and 11 in the Department of Lands and Surveys and situate in the area of the settlements of Fire Road and Coopers Town on the Island of Abaco in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas Abutting and bounding from the Main Abaco Highway through land granted to Gideon Lowe K144, through land south of Fire Road thence through lands granted to William Lowe B100, B2- 252, B112 thence through land granted to William Sweeting B116 and thence through land granted to John Roberts B112 thence through land granted to Joseph Saunders B131 to the Main Abaco High- way or however else the same may abut and bound which said piece or parcel of land or highway is more particularly delineated and shown coloured red on the plan of the area (N. 7) Page 34 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 More School News School From Page 32 for the sweet tooth.
Annual Festival of Carols brought students together By Mirella Santillo Many school children from all over the island, even as far as Moore’s Island, trav- eled to the Church of God in Dundas Town on December 5th to participate in the an- nual Festival of Carols organized by the Department of Education.

The event was moderated by two Forest Heights Acade- my’s students, Taj Anderson and Nasaha Bootle, who presented the performers as they read the Scriptures, sang carols or performed skits.
The performers were all students with a few exceptions.

Central Abaco Primary School students read verses from the Gospel according to Luke.

Others such as Sujith Swana and Amelia McDonald from Agape Christian School acted out a nativity skit or sang carols solo such as Akeem Adderley from Abaco Central High School or with their school choir such as Man-O-War, Amy Roberts Primary and Moore’s Island All Age students.
It was a festive morning aimed at put- ting the audience in the Christmas spirit, an audience comprised of local dignitaries, school principals, teachers and many par- ents.

Most musical pieces were accompanied by the Wesley College Band under the direction of Rev.

Charles Carey.

An in- strumental medley was performed by the Abaco Central High School Band directed by Mr. Jamal McIntosh with an impressive drum solo by Mackenson St. Fleur.
Mrs. Lenora Black, Abaco’s Education Superintendent, addressed her thanks to all the organizers and reminded the assembly not to forget the true meaning of Christ- mas.

She announced the presentation of a gift basket for the senior citizens of Sibyl’s House because, she said, “We believe that there should be a bond between the old and the young.” The basket was handed to the Director of Social Services, Mrs. Salomie Gibson, by Mackenson St. Fleur of Abaco Central.
Before the end of the ceremony Bishop Anthony Campbell spoke of the message of Christmas, “the never ending story of the nativity will still be there as long as there is a world,” he assured.

He urged people Please see School Page 35 Central Abaco recognized outstanding students Students who were in grades 1-5 last school year were awarded for performing well dur- ing that time.

The awards ceremony that was on November 28th.


Students making the outstanding and principal’s lists received certificates and trophies.
The most outstanding students were Victoria Hardy, Maliyah Forbes, Adrian Russell, Basia McKinney, Tazmia Cunningham, Shiwana Gilot, Richard Smith, Briniqua Munroe, Yolnicka Jeune, Twane- sha Lightbourn, Madelin St. Fleur, Ervette Knowles, Juline Russell, Destiny Seymour, Alpheneaus Kemp, Youricka Moreau, Chelshanno Adderley, Kadesha Canton, April Smith, Swanson Moss, Elizier Evariste, Wilda Cadet, and Isaiah Seymour.
The students who made the principal’s list were: Maliyah Forbes, Jerone Burrows, Earelle Reckley, Basia McKinney, Robert Russell, Tazmia Cunningham, Yolnicka Jeune, Twanesha Light- bourn, Amelia Gomez, and Antonyah Mackey.

Students from most schools on Abaco took part in the annual Festival of Carols that was held this year on December 5 at the Dundas Town Church of God.

Students conducted almost the entire service.


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Built Hurricane Tough School From Page 34 as they celebrate and exchange gifts with their friends and family not to forget the gift of Jesus.

The closing Christmas hymn followed Bishop Campbell’s benediction as people left the church giving each other hugs and Christmas greetings.

Thanksgiving at St. Francis de Sales By Samantha V. Evans On November 20th the school family of St. Francis de Sales celebrated Thanksgiv- ing.
As tradition stated, on this day all stu- dents brought their non-perishable items to give to the needy.

Each grade had to deco- rate their box.

They gathered at St. Francis de Sales Church where all of the gifts of thanksgiving were displayed.

Thanksgiv- ing Day is observed on the last Thursday in November; but due to school exams, they brought the date up one week.

The service started with a prayer of Thanksgiv- ing to God for all of His many blessings and for His continued care.
A slide show was shown of the school’s accomplish- Please see School Page 36 December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 35 More School News Students of the Month at Central Abaco Primary Ginelle Places Second in Nassau Students of Central Abaco Primary School have been working hard to learn the many subjects they are required to master at their specific grade level.

Student who performed exceptionally well in October were recognized.
They were Benjamin Cornish, Preschool; Quinesha Bonamy Grade 1; Dwayne Saunders Grade 1; Tredon Alleyne Grade 1; Earelle Reckley Grade 2; Maliyah Forbes, Grade 2; Chinica Jean, Grade 2; Rosmichel Denyer, Grade 3; Guetly St. Fleur, Grade 4; Christina Guillaume, Grade 4; Ashanti Davis, Grade 5; Tyzel Cunningham, Grade 5; Isaac Russell, Grade 5; Jermina Davis, Grade 6; Shavante Simms, Grade 6; Marcdala Augustin, Grade 6; and Edmilvannera Curry, Grade 6.
On November 28th Ginelle Longley, the winner of the Religious Knowledge compe- tition on Abaco, flew to Nassau along with her coach Roberta Lindsay and her parents as she competed in the National Religious Knowledge Competition.

The topic for the speech was Let’s Build Each Other Up.

Gi- nelle placed second in the competition.


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Page 36 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 More School News School From Page 35 ments and many blessing so far this school year, after which a skit was presented by the school’s drama club.

After the service, the items were separated so that they could be distributed.

The items will be given to needy families across Abaco.
Winning boy read 375 books in Boys Reading Challenge Once again boys from Central Abaco Primary School got a chance to improve their reading and writing skills by taking part in the annual Boys Reading Chal- lenge held during the month of October.

One hundred seventeen boys registered to participate and 55 of them were rewarded for actually taking part in this event.

The theme for this year’s Challenge was Re- solving Conflicts Peacefully Without Be- ing at War.
The awards day was held on November 24th at the school.

The guest speaker for this event was Det.

Insp.

Ed- ric Poitier, a 28-year veteran policeman with the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

The awards ceremony was lead by boys who took part in this Challenge.

The guest speaker gave the students a powerful talk on resolving conflicts and the results of being at war with each other as we are seeing manifested in society today.
He began by telling them that conflicts usually begin because someone is angry with another person.

He stated that anger is not a bad emotion.

In fact it is natural.

However, it is when a person allows anger to result in them harming another person that they lose control, get into trouble and can break the law.

There is good and bad anger.


People respond positively to anger when they feel threatened or wronged but bad anger results in frustration when needs and/or desires are not met or they lose their patience.

He encouraged them to find posi- tive ways to channel their energy.

Det.

Insp.

Poiter told them to learn how to resolve the conflicts now while they are small because when they reach adulthood it will become more difficult.

He encouraged them to think before they act.


They will live to be thankful they did.

Bringing remarks and commending the boys for a job well done was District Edu- cation Superintendent Lenora Black.

She Please see School Page 37 Religious Knowledge Speech Competition Declares a Winner The winner of the Boys Reading Challenge at Central Abaco Primary was Sidney Decius of grade 5.
The big prize was a bicycle along with cell phone, photo package, gift certificates, reading books, calculator, games, toys, cologne and school supplies worth over $200.

The Department of Education held a Religious Knowledge speech competition on Novem- ber 10th, an event organized by Sandy Edwards.

The theme focused on improving rela- tionships.

Five students participated representing Amy Roberts Primary, Central Abaco Primary, Cooper’s Town Primary, Agape Christian, and St. Francis de Sales.
The win- ner was Ginelle Longley, grade 5, from Central Abaco Primary School.

In second place was Yelena Persuad, grade 5, from St. Francis de Sales and in third place was Andrew Hanna, grade 6, from Agape Christian School.

The winning students received trophies.

December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 37 More School News School From Page 36 told the students that focusing on reading is a most necessary undertaking.
This Chal- lenge addresses reading which is necessary for them to get around in life.

Reading is important when you travel so that you can read signs and when you use the computer.

She stated that boys and girls who can read are not usually involved in conflicts as they resolve them using the many words they know.

She ended by further encouraging the boys to continue reading even though this Challenge is over as they should aim to become life-long readers.
All students to participate in the com- petition received a certificate.

Students to read more than ten books and to write a book report for each one received books as prizes.

The top ten boys received books and special gifts from toys to electronics to the coveted bicycle.

The winner for the second year having read 375 books and having written the same number of book reports on the theme of the book was Sid- ney Decius of grade 5.
Other winners were Isaac Russell – 2nd place, Travar Blanc – 3rd place, Loudino Box – 4th place, Brandon Meadows – 5th place, Eustace Sturrup – 6th place, Recelph Mere – 7th place, Kevin Pierre – 8th place, Warren Moreau – 9th place and Isaac Miller – 10th place.

Some of the prizes that the first place winner received included a bicycle, cell phone, photo package, gift certificates, reading books, calculator, games, toys, cologne and school supplies worth over $200.
The winning class teacher, Roberta Lindsay, also received a gift for motivating her students to embrace this opportunity to improve their reading and writing skills.

She had the most entrants - ten.

Coordinator of the Reading Challenges, Samantha V. Evans, stated that she was very proud of the boys.

This year all of the boys, but one received recognition for a job well done.

To add to the excitement of the wonderful prizes obtained, Superin- tendent Black will treat the top ten to lunch with her.
Also serving on the committee for the Challenges are Neulessa Major and Kayla Wallace.

Business were generous in donating prizes, certificates, programs and other items.

Central Abaco Primary Re- ceives Playground Donation By Samantha V. Evans Earlier this year, a gospel concert was held organized by Special Touch and the PTA Board of Central Abaco Primary School where part proceeds were to go to- wards the purchase of a new playground for the school.
On November 24th, Gwen Martin presented principal Eunice Mills with a check for $3,000 to go towards that purchase.

The school body thanks all per- sons concerns for assisting in this effort.

Abaco Print Shop Abaco Shopping Center Tel: 367-3202 - Fax: 367-3201 FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS!

Open 9 am - 5 pm Mon.

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The Jib Room Restaurant New Year’s Eve Dinner Party Surf & Turf Dinners Midnight Champagne Toast Starts 8 p.m. Party Favors Dancing Music Open for Lunch Wed - Sat 11:30 - 2:30 Dinner nights Wed & Sat Only 7 p.m. - Reservations Home of the best Babyback ribs & One Pound Steaks & Yacht Club Call 367-2700 • VHF Ch 16 Page 38 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 November was Diabetes Awareness Month By Samantha V. Evans The month of November was observed as Diabetes Awareness Month and the fo- cus this year was on diabetes in children and adolescents.
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases to affect children and can affect a child at any age includ- ing toddlers and babies.

A team from the Marsh Harbour Clinic visited Radio Abaco to educate the public on the dangers of diabetes; especially in children.

To climax the month, the clinic held a health walk on November 22, ending with the health fair.
At the health fair residents could get their blood pressure and insulin checked, free screening for diabetes and asked questions of the trained staff on hand.

Chicken souse was also given to all persons who took part in the events.
Hotels and House Rental Agents + agents with multiple cottages and houses Area Code 242 unless listed otherwise Island-wide Abaco Listings 800-633-9197 800-462-2426 Abaco Vacations + Bahamas Vacations + Casuarina Point Different of Abaco 8 rm 20 cott 366-2150 Lee Pinder + Marina Albury Cottages Cherokee 3 hse 5 cottages Grand Cay Rosie’s Place 366-2053 366-2075 352-5458 Green Turtle Cay Bluff House Cocobay Cottages Green Turtle Club Island Properties + New Plymouth Inn Ocean Blue Properties + 34 Roberts Cottages 30 rm 6 cott 35 rm 34 hse 9 rm 365-4247 365-5464 365-4271 365-4047 365-4161 365-4636 365-4105 3 cott Guana Cay 11 hse 365-5178 4 rm 10 cott.
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Abaco Towns) Moore’s Island 8 rm Sandy Point Moore’s Is Bonefish Camp Oeisha’s Resort Pete & Gay’s Resort Rickmon’s Bonefishing 14 rm 10 rm Spanish Cay 367-2158 367-2719 367-3529 367-4460 367-2022 367-3980 367-4000 367-3980 367-3776 367-2681 367-3600 367-0148 366-6334 366-4139 366-4119 366-4477 Spanish Cay Resort 18 rm 6 hse 365-0083 Treasure Cay Bahama Beach Club Island Dreams + Treasure Cay Resort 45 hse 95 rms 365-8500 365-8507 365-8801 Wood Cay Tangelo Hotel 19 rm 3 villa365-2222 Web Sites with Abaco Information http://www.abaconian.com http://www.abacoinet.com http.//www.abacoinfo.com http://www.abacos.com http://www.go-abacos.com http://www.oii.net http://www.bahamas.com Rev.
Apr 08 Emergency Services Police - Marsh Harbour 367-2560 The following services are provided by volunteers Fire - Marsh Harbour 367-2000 Fire - Dundas Town 367-2935 or 4935 Fire -Hope Town VHF Ch 16 Fire - Green Turtle Cay 365-4133 Fire - Man-O-War 365-6911 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 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 ................................
Taxi Cab Fares for one or two passengers Plus extra for each passengers above two • Between Marsh Harbour Airport and: Ferry Dock or Murphy Town to Ammons Dr ........... $12 + $3 Bristol Cellers thru A.

Beach Hotel or Gov’t dock thru .......... Dundas Town ......................................................... $10 + $3 Dove Plaza, Stop Light or Sawyer’s Market .......... $10 + $2 Gov’t Clinic thru Western Auto ................................ $ 6 + $2 Gov.
freight dock through Dundas Town ................ $10 + $3 Murphy Town to Shell Sta ...................................... $14 + $4 Pelican Shores to Frankie Russel house ................ $14 + $4 Eastern Shores to Peas & Rice house ................... $14 + $4 Beyond Russell house or Peas & Rice house ........ $16 + $5 Great Cistern ......................................................... $20 + $5 Spring City ............................................................. $15 + $5 Snake Cay ........................................................... $35 + $10 Treasure Cay ..................................................... $60 + $ 10 Casuarina Point ................................................... $60 + $10 Treasure Cay Airport or Bah Palm Shores ........ $70 + $ 10 Little Harbour or Cherokee ................................... $80 + $10 Crossing Rocks ................................................. $100 + $10 Sandy Point ....................................................... $135 + $10 • Between Marsh Harbour Ferry and: Ab Beach Hotel thru Wally’s & Eastern Shore ........$ 2 each Jib Room ................................................................$ 3 each Solomon’s Super Center ......................................... $5 + $3 Stop Light, Dove Plaza, Gov’t dock ....................... $ 6 + $3 Government Freight Dock ....................................... $ 7 + $3 Gov.Clinic, W. Auto or Nat.
Insurance ................... $ 9 + $3 Mother Merle restaurant ......................................... $10 + $3 Waiting time $20 per hour, $10 per half hour Children under three - free • Caged pets - as people Luggage $1.00 each over four, Surf boards $4.00 ea.
• Between Treasure Cay Airport and: Effective 13 Nov 05 Treasure Cay Resort .............................................. $20 + $5 Madeira Park .......................................................... $14 + $4 Green Turtle Cay ferry dock ..................................... $8 + $4 Moxy ...................................................................... $18 + $5 Bahamas Star farm ................................................. $24 + $5 Sand Banks ........................................................... $24 + $5 Joe’s Creek, Leisure Lee ..................................... $44 + $10 Black Wood ........................................................... $18 + $5 Fire Road & Cooper’s Town ................................... $37 + $5 Cedar Harbour ....................................................... $55 + $5 Wood Cay .............................................................. $60 + $5 Mount Hope ........................................................... $65 + $5 Fox Town ............................................................... $70 + $5 Crown Haven ......................................................... $75 + $5 Marsh Harbour Airport ......................................... $75 + $10 T Cay Hotel to Marsh Harbour ............................. $65 + $10 T C Hotel to G Turtle Ferry (Blue Hole $24) .......... $18 + $ 5 T C Hotel to Boneﬁ sh Marles .................................. $22 + $5 T C Hotel to Joe’s Creek ........................................ $35 + $5 T C Hotel to Moxey ................................................ $16 + $5 T C Hotel to Banyan Bch Club XX ............................ $6 + $3 Green Turtle Ferry to Marsh H Airport ................. $75 + $10 Airlines Serving Abaco Abaco Air - Nassau, N Eleuthera, Moores Is ........ 367-2266 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 Southern Air - Nassau .......................................... 367-2498 Twin Air Calypso - Fort Lauderdale ..................... 367-0140 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 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 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 December 15, 2008 The Abaconian Section A Page 39 Visitors’ Guide Restaurants • Services • Transportation * Not on Sundays or holidays Compliments of The Abaconian www.abaconian.com Area code 242 unless noted otherwise Ferry Schedules • Departure times shown • Daily service unless noted Marsh Harbour to Hope Town or Man-O-War - 20 minutes, Guana Cay - 40 minutes 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 7:15 am 9 10:30 12:15 pm* 2 4 5:45 Return 8 am 9:45 11:30 1:30 pm* 3 4 5 6:30 Marsh Harbour > White Sound Contractor’s special - Mon - Fri 7 am Return 5 pm Marsh Harbour > Man-O-War 10:30 am 12:15 pm 2:30* 4 5:45 Return 8 am 11:30 1:30 pm Marsh H. > Guana Cay (& Scotland Cay with advance notice) from Conch Inn (6:45am - Union Jack Dock) 10:30 3:30 1:30 pm 3:15* 5 5:45* Return 8 am 11:30 2:30 pm 4:45 5:45 Fare • Adult prepaid oneway $15 / open return $25, • Kids 6-11 half, Under 6 free Green Turtle Ferry • Phone 365-4166, 4128, 4151 • VHF Ch 16 • Ten minute ride Green T Cay to Treasure Cay Airport 8 am 9 11 12:15 1:30 3 4:30 T Cay Airport to Green T Cay 8:30 am 10:30 11:30 1:30 2:30 3:30 4:30 5 New Plymouth one way adult $10 (Children $7) • Round trip $15 • Extra to some G T Cay docks Abaco Adventures • Ph 365-8749 VHF Ch 16 Treasure Cay to Guana Cay Sunday Lv 12 & returns 4:45 p.m. $25 RT T Cay to Man-O-War/ Hope Town - Wed 9:30 am, return 4:30 pm $35 RT T Cay to Guana Cay Sunset Cruise - Fr $25 , call for time 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 Sandy Point to Nassau under 4 Hr.
Call Sandy Point 366-4119 or Marsh Harbour 367-5250 for sailing dates • Adults $95 RT, $55 OW • Cars & trucks The Great Abaco Express Marsh Harbour charter bus to N Abaco • Call 367-2165, Group tours Boneﬁ sh Guides Sandy Point Patrick Roberts .. 366-4286 Nicholas Roberts Derrick Gaitor Ferdinand Burrows 366-4133 Vernal Burrows Kendall White Anthony Bain ...... 366-4107 Floyd Burrows .... 366-4175 Links Adderly ...... 366-4335 Valentino Lightbourne Ricky Burrows .... 366-4233 Marsh Harbour Jody Albury ......... 375-8068 Terrance Davis .... 367-4464 Buddy Pinder .......366-2163 Justin Sands ...... 367-3526 Danny Sawyer ..... 367-3577 Jay Sawyer ........ 367-3941 Man-O-War David Albury ....... 365-6059 Crossing Rocks Tony Russell .......366-3259 Cherokee Theodore Sawyer ... 366-2111 Will Sawyer ............. 366-2177 Marty Sawyer .......... 366-2115 Noel Lowe ...............366-2107 Randy Sawyer .........366-2284 Casaurina Point Junior Albury ...........366-3058 Hope Town Maitland Lowe ........366-0234 North Abaco O’Donald McIntosh ..477-5037 Pope McKenzie .......477-5894 Orthnell Russell ......365-0125 Alexander Rolle .......365-0120 Edward Rolle ..........365-0024 Green Turtle Cay Rick Sawyer .............365-4261 Ronnie Sawyer .......365-4070 Jeff Survance ..........365-4040 To Abaco by land and sea from Florida • Take Discovery Cruise Line (954-971-7347) from Ft. Lauderdale or CloudX ferry (866-473-3779) from West Palm Beach to Freeport •Bus to McLeans Town • Ferry to Crown Haven • Bus to Green Turtle Ferry or Marsh Harbour •Taxi to Marsh Harbour ferry dock • Ferry to Hope Town, Man-O-War or Guana Cay • Its an adventure Please bring errors & revisions to our atten- tion - Rev 1 Dec 08 Everyone reads The Abaconian Bikes & Scooters • Boats • Cars & Carts Rentals * Marsh Harbour A & P Car Rentals ............................. 367-2655 B & B Boat Rentals ............................ 367-7368 Bargain Car Rentals ........................... 367-0500 Blue Wave Boat Rentals ................... 367-3910 Concept Boat
 Rentals ........................ 367-5570 Power Cat Boat Rentals ................................... 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 Green Turtle Cay Bay Street Rentals + ........ 477-5300 365-4070 Brendals Dive Bikes & Kayak rental ...365-4411 C & D Cart Rental ............................. 365-4084 D & P Cart Rental .............................. 365-4655 Donnie’s Boat Rentals.........................365-4119 New Plymouth Cart Rentals .. 365-4188 or 4149 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 Man-O-War Conch Pearl Boat Rentals .................. 365-6502 Island Treasures Cart Rentals ........... 365-6072 Ria-Mar Golf Cart Rentals .................. 365-6024 Waterways Boat Rental ..357-6540 & 365-6143 Hope Town Cat’s Paw Boat Rentals ..................... 366-0380 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 Alison Car Rent ................................. 365-8193 Cash’s Carts....................................... 365-8771 Claridge’s Cart Rentals ..................... 365-8248 Cornish Car Rentals ........................... 365-8623 JIC Boat Rentals ............................... 365-8465 Triple J
 Car Rentals ........................... 365-8761 Abaco Adventures - Kayaks .............. 365-8749 Abaco Marinas - Slips Fuel Phone Walker’s Cay Walker’s Cay - ................................... Closed 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 ......367-2736 Conch Inn ...................75....... F .....367-4000 Harbour View Marina .36....... F .....367-2182 Mangoes Marina ........29................367-2366 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 ..................50....... F ......366-0065 Spanish Cay Spanish Cay Marina ...75....... F ......365-0083 Guana Cay Orchid Bay .................64 ...... F ......365-5175 Boats can clear Customs at Green Turtle Cay, Treasure Cay or Marsh Harbour Tours & Excursions Abaco Island Tours • Marsh Harbour 367-2936 Above & Below • Marsh Harbour 367-0350 Dive Abaco 1978, Marsh Harbour 367-2787 Brendals Dive • Green Turtle Cay 365-4411 Excursion boat • Froggies • Hope T 366-0024 Hope Town historic walking tour 458-4670 Points of Interest 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 Walk to & swim on Mermaid Reef off M Harb.
..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 are generally on ocean exposures • Treasure Cay • Green Turtle Cay • Guana Cay • Elbow Cay • Man-O-War Cay • Casuarina Point • Bahama Palm Shore • Sandy Point & more Restaurant Guide Prices $ Low, $$ Moderate, $$$ Upper (Based on dinner entree range) + Picnic tables & restroom only ‡ Provides ride from town Marsh Harbour Anglers ...........................$$$ ....... .... 367-2158 Curly Tails ......................$$$ ............. 367-4444 Gino’s .................................$ ............. 367-2002 Golden Grouper ..............$ ............. 367-2301 Island Cafe .........................$ ............. 367-6444 Jamie’s Place .....................$ ............. 367-2880 Jib Room .........................$$ ............. 367-2700 Kentucky Fried Chicken ............... ... 367-2615 Mangoes ........................$$$ ............. 367-2366 Pop’s Place ........................$ ..... + ..... 367-3796 Sea Shells .........................$ ............. 367-4460 Snack Shack .....................$ ..... + ..... 367-4005 Snappas .............................$ ............. 367-2278 Wallys ............................$$$ ............. 367-2074 Hope Town Abaco Inn .....................$$$ ............. 366-0133 Cap’n Jacks .......................$ ............. 366-0247 Harbour’s Edge ............... $$ ............. 366-0087 H T Harbour Lodge .......$$$ ............. 366-0095 Munchies ..........................$ ..... + ..... 366-0423 Sea Spray ......................$$ ..... ‡ ..... 366-0065 Little Harbour Pete’s Pub Lubber’s Quarter Cracker P’s......................................... 366-3139 Man-O-War Hibiscus .......................................... 365-6380 Island Treats Snack Bar ..................... 365-6501 Guana Cay Docksiders .....................$$$ ............. 365-5230 Grabbers ........................$$$ ............. 365-5133 Nippers ..........................$$$ ............ 365-5143 Orchid Bay .....................$$$ ............. 265-5175 Treasure Cay Florence’s Cafe .................$ Coconuts .............................. Harbour Cafe ....................$ ............. 365-8635 Hudson’s Delight ...............$ ............ 365-8648 Spinnaker Restaurant ...$$$ ............. 365-8469 Touch of Class .............$$$ ............. 365-8195 Green Turtle Cay Bluff House.....................$$$ ............. 365-4200 Jolly Roger Bistro .............$$ ............. 365-4200 Green Turtle Club ..........$$$ ............. 365-4271 Harvey’s Island Grill .........$$ ............. 365-4389 Laura’s Kitchen ...............$$ ............. 365-4287 McIntosh’s Restaurant ....$$ ............. 365-4625 Plymouth Rock Cafe .......................... 365-4234 Rooster’s Rest ................$$ ....... .... 365-4066 Sundowners ....................................... 365-4060 Wrecking Tree Restaurant Sandy Point Nancy’s ................................ Pete & Gays .................$$$ ............ 366-4119 Rickmon Boneﬁ sh Lodge ................... 366-4477 H Cafe Open Nights Only Page 40 Section A The Abaconian December 15, 2008 350-3500 350-3510 322-3211