New Year, New Cheque Requirements

On January 1, The Bahamas will be ushering in more than the New Year. The country will be welcoming a new era in financial services with the introduction of standard cheques for all customers. Announcement of the change was made today by the Clearing Banks Association, which urged businesses and individuals who maintain chequing accounts at any of the domestic banks to contact their bank to exchange any cheques issued prior to 2010 or replace any cheques that may have been printed on in-house chequing machines.

“The transition to standardized bank-printed cheques for Bahamian dollar accounts is being made for two reasons,” explained Barry Malcolm, Clearing Banks Association Chairman. “The first and most obvious reason is because of security. Cheques that are printed in-house are not printed on what is considered safety paper nor do they contain any of the hidden features that protect against fraud. The new cheques will help safeguard against potential fraud. The second reason for the transition is to ensure good imaging.”

Electronic imaging, or cheque scanning, is now used in cheque clearing, replacing the older means of exchanging the cheques themselves between banks and The Central Bank for clearance. The new system took effect earlier this year when the long-awaited Bahamas Automated Clearing House came on stream, dramatically speeding up cheque clearing time, shaving several days off the time it takes for a cheque to clear an account. Through imaging, most cheques clear within one business day.

“The success of electronic clearance is dependent upon a clear image of the cheque on both sides as it passes through the processing system,” said Malcolm, who is also Managing Director of Scotiabank, one of the seven members of the Clearing Banks Association.

Other member banks include Bank of The Bahamas, Citibank, Commonwealth Bank, Fidelity, First Caribbean and Royal Bank of Canada. “If you bank with any of these banks, consult your bank. We urge you to order cheques now so you do not enter the new year without means of paying bills, making payroll or in any other way being inconvenienced.”

Each bank is setting its specific policy, but there is no extra charge for the new standardized cheques with security features and enhanced imaging capture capabilities. Customers will still be able to choose the design of their cheques based on each bank’s offerings.

Source: Diane Philips and Associates

Grand Bahama sailing team goes to New Orleans

Photo: Dean Bethel and Nicholas Rolle sailing back from Opti practice

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- After returning from Laser Nationals in Nassau Nov 20-21st, the Grand Bahama Sailing Team headed state-side to New Orleans for the club's first international regatta. The Optimist Mid-Winters regatta, hosted by Southern Yacht Club, is one of the top racing events in the USA.

Currently, over 212 sailors from USA, Mexico, and now the Bahamas are registered. The Grand Bahama Sailing Club has never attended a regatta of this size, nonetheless with the expected level of international competition.
Alex Thompson, Nicholas Rolle and Dean Bethel represent the island of Grand Bahama with coach David Valentine. Long Island and Harbour Island also sent a number of junior sailors to bump up the number of Bahamian sailors to 9. Sailing takes place over the Thanksgiving holiday with racing on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The experience gained from this regatta will surely advance the next generation of Bahamian sailors to the next level.
The Grand Bahama Sailing Club has organized this multi-island effort to send these deserving sailors to New Orleans. If you are interested in learning more about the GBSC sailing program please visit the website at www.grandbahamasailingclub.org or contact the sailing director at david.valentine@grandbahamasailingclub.org.

Business expands restaurant offerings

By GENEA NOEL
Freeport News

FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA- Months after 78 workers lost their jobs following the closure of three restaurants in the Port Lucaya Marketplace, local businessman Mario Dinato has hired several of them for a new business venture.
Dinato has acquired only the name for East and La Dolce Vita previously operated by Rick Hayward and has moved both restaurants to his Pier One Restaurant location at the Lucayan Harbour.
Back in September Hayward closed The Pub, La Dolce Vita and East restaurants after an ongoing dispute with the Port Group Limited over rent.
Employees are currently preparing to take legal action to recoup severance pay owed to them.
Speaking to The Freeport News yesterday, Dinato said that Hayward agreed to give him the names of the restaurants and he plans to serve similar offerings to the Grand Bahama community with some of the original staff.
"I have re-employed about nine persons from both restaurants and as business picks up I hope to take on more of those employees," Dinato said
He added that he hopes residents and visitors will warm up to the idea of the all inclusive location with an ideal scenery that cannot be found anywhere else on the island.
The Freeport News visited the restaurants yesterday and employees seemed grateful to be employed again.
Meanwhile, Selvin Newbold, former executive chef of La Dolce Vita and former Chef at East Marshal Bernard, who left months before the closure, said that persons would be able to get their menu favourites from the two restaurants, including Pier One's Bahamian cuisine.
"We have incorporated everything so that we will be able to satisfy our old customers and Pier One's customers."
"They can expect a variety of food under a whole different concept. It's Italian, Asian and Bahamian styles."
Though there was the concern that the new location may be a bit far out than they are used to, the chefs said that once they experience it, it would be worth their while.
Dinato said that the concept will open the market, attract more visitors and give locals a new and exciting experience.
While employees of Hayward's restaurants still intend to take action against their former boss (Hayward) for monies owed to them, they hope that customers will welcome the new location.

Chamber Elections Turnquest returns unopposed

By K. NANCOO-RUSSELL

FN Senior Reporter

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama- The leadership of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce remained almost unchanged after yesterday's election, with many of the executive members being re-elected and new nominees running uncontested.
President K. Peter Turnquest of Telecom Trading and Consulting was returned as the president of the organization, as was first vice president John Swain of Deloitte and Touche.
Esmond Weekes of the College of Business was reinstated as second vice president, while Wayne Russell was elected unopposed as treasurer.
Two persons – Jennivee Nelson of Royal Fidelity Bank and Minna Outten-Winters of Global Consultants and Trainers – were nominated for the position of secretary, with Nelson earning the most votes after the ballots were cast.

Five persons were chosen to serve as executive board members; Marvin Adderley of First Caribbean; Donna Laing-Jones of HG Christie; Lisa Turnquest of Atlantic Medical Insurance; Janet Albury of VIP Services and Christopher Baker of Ronald Knowles and Co.

The other board members who were not up for reelection as they are serving their second year are Neville Wilchcombe, of Dupuch and Turnquest; Vanessa Mallory of Modalena Company Limited; Patra Albury of Pelican Bay Hotel and Lanelle Philips of Lanelle Philips Real Estate.

During Turnquest's address to the members, he thanked them for their support over the past year.

"We will continue to advocate to try and encourage development on Grand Bahama ... We look forward to your support," he said.

There are many challenges facing the island's economy, he acknowledged, and it is likely that there may be a year to two where it will continue to be in a depressed state.

"We have to continue to be watchful of our spending and that we are managing our inventories in our businesses. We have to be careful that we keep enough reserves to carry us through," he advised.

Turnquest said he does believe however, that there will be some good news within the first or second quarter of next year.

"I want you to be encouraged and know that there are a number of entrepreneurs that are entering the business everyday," he said.

"I think one of the lessons to be learnt from this recession is that people realize that we have to take control of our own destiny, that we have the ability to do that and so people are getting into business and being creative about what they are doing, and I think that's going to be the answer to our success going forward."

Turnquest thanked the outgoing director, Minna Outten-Winters for her work and extended a welcome to the newly elected executives.

He said he looked forward to working with the team as they seek to complete ongoing projects and commence others.

Young Bahamian artists to headline Festival Noel 2010

Lakaii Knowles

Barefoot Marketing

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- On this, the 16th year of Festival Noel, the organizing committee has chosen the youth of Grand Bahama as its muse. This year’s featured artists will not be one but five young Bahamian artists. Aaron Hanna, Veronica Dorsett, Lakaii Knowles, Maquelle Monroe and Kikko Knowles (Forbes) will co-headline Festival Noel 2010.
“This year my committee and I wanted to show off our home grown talent,“ noted GB BNT Chairman, Karin Sanchez. “We have some very talented high school graduates producing beautiful work – I am very excited to see their work showcased in our gallery.”


The five young artists represent a wonderful new talent pool on the island. Thanks to Cecilia Bodie, BNT Education Specialist and their art teachers, these young Bahamians will be able to showcase their talents at the Glory Banks Gallery in a joint exhibition. Each of the five artists attended local schools on the island and are thrilled to be exhibiting to the public, for some it will be the first time.

Born in Freeport but raised in Hawksbill, Aaron Hanna is one of seven children who found his passion for art at the early age of eight. Educated at Jack Hayward High, Aaron fine-tuned his craft from sketching characters from books to exquisitely detailed portraits and murals. “Two of my murals are on display at Cafe Magnolia and at the Freeport Harbour,” noted Aaron. “I am hopeful Festival guests will enjoy my work.”

Fellow Jack Hayward student, Lakaii Knowles, will also showcase her work for the guests at Festival Noel. Knowles hails from Eight Mile Rock and found her passion for painting while attending St. Vincent de Paul Primary. Once at secondary school, both her teachers Mr. Gobin and Mrs. Robinson encouraged and guided her creative talents. “I love painting portraits of people using oil paints,” noted Knowles. “It’s rewarding to see the smile on their face when I have completed a portrait of them.”

Joining the talented group will be Veronica Dorsett, a recent Sunland Baptist Academy graduate. Veronica did not really study art until she was 14 at which time she became captivated by the creative process and soon began to experiment with many different mediums. “Through the guidance of my art teacher, Mr. Bill Nelson, and the skills I’ve learned at workshops over the years, I’ve been able to accomplish quite a lot with my work and next year I will further my studies at College of The Bahamas.”

 Marquelle Monroe

Fellow Sunland graduate, Marquelle Munroe was born in Nassau, but raised in Freeport. She attended Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School and completed high school at Sunland Baptist Academy in 2005. “Throughout my school years art was always a major hobby and a passion of mine,” noted Monroe. “From 2nd grade, I discovered that I have the gift of creativity and an artistic ability, thanks to the help of my primary school art teacher, Mrs. Darville.”

Rounding out the artists will be Kiko Forbes, an Eight Mile Rock High School Graduate in the class of 2008. Forbes’ work has been showcased twice now in the RBC/FINCO national calendars, winning first place both times he entered. One of eight children, Forbes continues to craft his talents and he is thrilled to be showcasing as a guest artist for the Bahamas National Trust.

Festival Noel, which is slated annually on the first Friday of December, will start at 7pm at the Rand Nature Centre. Sponsored by Bristol Wines & Spirits the wine tasting, art show and student chef competition brings out hundreds to support the Bahamas National Trust in Grand Bahama each year.

Veronica DorsettThis year’s event is also co-sponsored by Savemore food store, Cool 96, Freeport Advertising, Bahamian Brewery & Beverage Co., Unexso, Freeport Container Port, Grand Bahama Airport Company and the Freeport Harbour Company. “Without these sponsors we would not be able to finance this event and ensure that each ticket sold brings the BNT a 100% profit,” noted Sarah Kirkby, Barefoot Marketing.

 Veronica Dorsett

Tickets are on sale now for $50 in advance and $55 on the day at Bristol Wines and Spirits, the Rand Nature Centre and Barefoot Marketing. “Tickets for our BNT members are reduced to $45 but only in advance and can only be purchased at the Rand Nature Centre. All tickets on Friday, the 3rd will be $55,” said Sanchez. “We are encouraging everyone to buy their tickets early as we are limited in numbers.”

Old Mother Hubbard opens December 2 at the Regency Theatre

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- An adaptation of a long time nursery rhyme classic, Old Mother Hubbard, will be put on by the Freeport Players Guild at the Regency Theatre beginning December 2nd.
Director Angela Hackman explained that the production is actually a pantomime, and that although the word conjures up for the average Bahamian thoughts of robed, gloved dancers with white paint on their faces, it actually has another meaning altogether in England.
"It has its traditions - usually the dame is supposed to be played by a man and they're not supposed to look like a woman, they're supposed to be outrageous looking and they are the comedic figures. Usually as well, the principal boy is played by a woman."
Old Mother Hubbard will be performed on December 2nd, 4th and 5th and 10th through 12th by some 30 cast members of all ages.
"There's the evil duke who tries to break them up, there's the wicked witch, there's always a witch in there, there's always another comedy duo," she said.
The pantomimes are a popular Christmas tradition in England, she continued, where whole families go out to enjoy the show. The Guild used to put one on every year, she added, but had not done so for a long time.
"I thought it was time to bring it back. It's not just for children, there's a lot of interaction between the audience and the cast, but there's a lot of adult humour that the kids just don't get. There's a lot of slapstick humour too, and surprises, and of course because we're in Freeport there's a lot of topical jokes," she said.

The show will run at 7:30 p.m. nightly with a matinee on Sundays at 4:00 p.m.

Tickets are available at the Seventeen Shop, Island Java and Antoni's Pizzeria for advance sales and at the Regency box office one hour prior to show times. Special family rates for Old Mother Hubbard - 1 Adult + 3 children only $40! Don't miss the raffle either, you could WIN a Nintendo DS3!

Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board offering free companion airfare plus USD 50 instant credit for divers

 Photo: Getty Images

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida -- As The Islands Of The Bahamas continues the expansion of its highly touted and successful Free Companion Airfare Promotion, it was announced that divers will now benefit from an additional bonus of $50.00 instant credit, through the country’s Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board.

The Bahamas Free Companion Airfare is now available for divers who book a 4 (four) night or more air/hotel vacation package at participating hotels throughout Nassau and the Out Islands. Divers get an additional $50.00 Dive Credit per diver on the 4-night or more air/hotel/dive package at a participating Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board member hotel in conjunction with a Bahamas Dive Association member.

The booking window for this special promotion continues through February 9th, 2011, and has a travel by date of June 30th, 2011. Blackout dates include December 23rd, 2010 through, and including, January 2nd, 2011 and March 3rd through, and including, April 30th, 2011. Full details are available on line at MyOutIslands.com and bookings can be made by calling the Bahamas Dive Reservation Services at 800-866-3483.

At the recent announcement Mrs. Valery Brown-Alcé, Sr. Director of Marketing, Bahama Out Islands Promotion Board, commented that, “The Board is happy to be a part of a partnership that provides an opportunity to give big savings to divers. The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism will be providing the divers a saving on their air travel and the $50.00 cash credit we provide can be used for savings towards dive tank purchases.”
Bahamas Dive Reservation Services’, Beth Watson, advised that they are ready at the 800 Bahamas dive number to receive and handle all dive bookings. “With more than 30 years experience in booking dive travel, our knowledgeable staff has the expertise to customize any trip to ensure that the diver’s experience is maximized and memorable,” Watson promised.

Adding to Watson’s comments, Richard Treco, Manager, Bahamas Vertical Markets boasted that, “Our waters are pristine and full of life and with 100,000 square miles of water, there is more to see underwater in The Bahamas than in any other country in the world.”

Life in The Islands Of The Bahamas is as culturally diverse as it is vibrantly beautiful, from the carefree Out Islands to exciting Nassau/Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island. With world-class diving and fishing, gorgeous turquoise water and miles of picture perfect beaches the 700 islands of the Bahamas offer visitors the opportunity to do everything or nothing at all. For more information on travel packages, activities and accommodations, call: 1-800-Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com. To purchase one-of-a-kind items and mementos from the Bahamas, visit www.eshopbahamas.com.

Local businesses recognized

The Freeport News

The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) held its third annual Business Excellence Award Ceremony Saturday night at Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort.

The evening recognized the many contributions of outstanding business persons to the island over the last year.

President of the Chamber, K. Peter Turnquest noted that when the GBCC originally thought up the concept of the awards the economy was not in the throes of an economic downturn.

"We thought amongst ourselves, how can the Chamber contribute to increasing the level of service and rewarding and identifying those institutions that have historically and continually rendered good service throughout community, and use them as an example for the rest of the business community to follow," he supplied.

After three years, Turnquest said he hopes the ceremony is serving its purpose by helping to promote better service and encouraging the community to deliver first-class service which Grand Bahama is capable of providing.

He congratulated all the nominees noting that to just be nominated made them all winners.

"It means that there are others out there who have visited your business and patronized your business and appreciated and recognized the level of service that you are giving. It means that you are a cut above the rest and for that you are winners," Turnquest said.

Offering remarks at the award ceremony was Kenneth Russell, member of parliament for High Rock.

"Today we live in a world where mediocrity is gaining ground on too many fronts, he said. "However, as long as there are persons who will not settle for anything else but their very best, excellence will remain as the overwhelming benchmark for doing what we do whether in business or otherwise in our endeavours."

He added that despite the recession it is heartening to see that there are businesses that appear to be thriving and are keeping Bahamians employed.

He noted that like many other businesses that have close down during the recession, the business persons being recognized could have followed suit and closed their doors but have instead stayed to weather the storm.

"These awards tell me that while others slept, the awardees tonight were toiling well into the night and as a consequence they flourished while others failed," Russell said. "Their tenacity of purpose and resolve has produced excellence in the workplace of their various businesses."

The awardees he said have made it possible for Grand Bahamians to still have their jobs and be able to pay their bills.

"I am proud of you, Grand Bahama is proud of you and most certainly, the Commonwealth of The Bahamas is proud of you because without you continuing your businesses, without you shining that light for those of us to follow, without you continuing to roll the ball to keep your employees. There would be no us," Russell noted.

Taking home the award for outstanding businessperson of the year award was Keith Rolle owner of Stop 'N' Wash who thanked his family and employees for making his win possible.

"I hope that moving forward when we hear the word economy we can hear more robust words like flourishing, never been better, words of that nature," he said.

He added that if the island adapts that right attitude it can be achieved.

"If we pull together Grand Bahama can be one of the most uplifting communities in this region," Rolle supplied.

Also taking home awards for the night were Peter Taylor for developing entrepreneur of the year, Waugh Construction which won for philanthropic businessperson of the year and Maitland Cates for lifetime achievement award,

Company of the year Category A went to Butler's Specialty, while Category B went to Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company. Two president's awards were issued this year to Atlantic Medical Insurance Company and Hutchison Ports Freeport.

Park N' Shop celebrates 40 Years!

Forty years of reliable, professional service is what the management and staff of Park N' Shop prides themselves on, says William Howard Russell, president and CEO.

This month Park N' Shop celebrated 40 years of existence in the Grand Bahama community, offering its clients what they wanted over those years as products and needs changed.
Over the weekend management and staff held a reception and during that time The Freeport News got an opportunity to speak with Russell, who was pleased to share the store's past and future plans.
"When I came down here (from Abaco) in the 1970s we (along with his wife Molly) figured we'd come here for a few years and go back," Russell recalled, noting that at that time all the retail stores were owned by foreigners.
"We were really the first Bahamian one," he added.
He remembered the store first opening its doors near Royal Bank, operating out of a 2,000 square-feet space.
"A few years later we were able to move and got a 4,000 square-feet building and a few years after that we bought the Callaghan building which was 10,000 square-feet."
Russell said that he added another 7,000 square-feet and is in that very same building to date.
"There were people who told us 'no way you could compete with us' because they had international backing," Russell said, "they didn't realize that they were visitors in this country and we're Bahamians, and we were here to stay."
Now, he added, they are all gone.
Sustainability and stickability are two of the retail store's motto, Russell noted. Additionally, he credits the staff they have worked with over the years as well for the store's years in the community.
"Also, I believe, that we've lasted this long because we are giving the Bahamians what they want."
He explained that they try to bring in items the Bahamians want. "Not necessarily what I wanted, but what the customers, the Bahamian customers would like."
Russell said that is how Park N' Shop got started and that's how it remained in business.
"In the beginning we started out with figurines, artificial flowers and the like... that was 90 percent of our sales, that was what the people wanted and because there was nowhere they could go to get those things at a price they could afford we were able to establish ourselves in the community," Russell explain-ed.
After facing and overcoming challenges over the years, Russell said that Park N' Shop is looking forward to the next 40 years.
He admitted to having two "bad years" with the down- turn in the economy that is being experienced world-wide.
"We had two bad years ... this is the second year, but we've been able to stay open, we haven't laid anyone off and none of the staff is on short weeks," he revealed, noting that that is a result of them owning the building.
"So we've kept the business open and kept our staff on 40-hour work weeks," he said proudly.

He thanked the customers for their loyalty for the past 40 years, noting that Park N' Shop tries to please its customers daily, by offering them the best prices and prices they could afford.

"We bring in any item and if there is another store that offers it cheaper or at the same price, we will beat those prices for our customers, no matter what it is," Russell said.

"So for the next 40 years we will be here, we are Baha-mians we have nowhere to go," Russell added.

Featured Listing!! Bahama Reef Multi-Family High Rise Lots 465’ on the water 4 contiguous lots, USD 845,000

• Bahama Reef Multi-Family High Rise Lots

• 465’ on the water
• 4 contiguous lots
• $845,000
• Listing ID#3880

Located in Bahama Reef Yacht & Country Club this lot overlooks the ocean. This lot boasts 465 feet of canal frontage, close to the golf course and minutes away from all the attractions in Grand Bahama. These 4 lots have a total of two acres, to develop exclusive high rise condominiums or even a luxury hotel! Click HERE for more info.

"One small act of generosity on the part of one caring person can transform the lives of hundreds"

Dear Friends,

Seasons Greetings!

As many of you know our company Coldwell Banker James Sarles Realty coordinates its own personal Basket Brigade each year and we are asking for your help again.
The Basket Brigade is built on a simple notion: "One small act of generosity on the part of one caring person can transform the lives of hundreds. It takes only one light to dispel the darkness, and even just one basket or a few, to bring hope!"
Each year, a few days before Christmas, our entire James Sarles Realty staff assembles food baskets with all the "fixings" for a wonderful Christmas Dinner. These baskets are given to the most needy familes on Grand Bahama Island. The baskets contain everything for a delicious meal: a turkey, vegetables, stuffing, candied yams, potatoes, cabbage, gravy, macaroni, cider, chocolates, cookies as well as a blanket and games for the kids. We find the most needy people on Grand Bahama through a variety of sources and acting as delivery people we anonymously deliver the beautifully prepared baskets throughout Grand Bahama Island with a simple note that says:
"This comes to you from someone who cares about you. All we ask is that you take care of yourself well enough to be able to do this for someone else someday."

This year we are planning to deliver even more baskets than in previous years and we are asking for financial help to make the program possible.

If you feel called to help our program please stop in the office or mail us a check to:

James Sarles Realty
"Basket Brigade"
#9 Regent Center East
Freeport, Bahama
P.O. F-43152

We accept PayPal too. Send PayPal funds to jamessarlesrealty@gmail.com
To wire funds contact Kim Anthony at kanthony@coralwave.com

Every little bit helps.

Thanks in advance for your help and support.

Regards,

Jamie

One Bahamas Celebration dedicated to the uplifting of all peoples, Sir Arthur says

Sir Arthur arrives at the Grand Bahama International Airport. Photo: BIS

By Simon Lewis BIS

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, His Excellency Sir Arthur Foulkes said Friday that such celebrations like One Bahamas must inspire not only national unity, but also common cause in the building of a human civilisation dedicated to the uplifting of all peoples.
Sir Arthur’s remarks came as he addressed thousands of school children, parents, teachers and others assembled at the Independence Park in Freeport, Grand Bahama for National Flag Day, a part of the One Bahamas Celebrations.

 This photo show a small portion of the students assembled at the Independence Park in Freeport, Grand Bahama Friday for the One Bahamas Celebration. Photo BIS

 It marked the first time in the 18-year history of the Celebrations that the Governor General delivered his Message from Grand Bahama.
Sir Arthur arrived on Grand Bahama early Friday morning along with former Governor General Sir Orville Turnquest, chairman of the One Bahamas Foundation for the special celebration, which was broadcast live over Radio Bahamas.
He recalled that the first One Bahamas Celebrations was observed in December of 1992 in an effort to promote national unity, foster national pride, and cultivate greater patriotism in terms of citizen service and respect for national institutions.

“This programme seeks to bind us together, fostering unity amidst the wonderful diversity that is our Bahamas. In this we are a model for other countries, large and small.
“Indeed, the ideal of One Bahamas is a living reality as the world marks the manner of our bearing as we continue to pledge together to excel through love and unity,” Sir Arthur stated.

Continuing, he noted that despite the crime which affects us all, that we are a nation of significant social peace within neighbourhoods and communities across our archipelago, and that we have much to celebrate.

Further, he reminded Bahamians that as we observe Flag Day, that we focus attention on our national flag, which stirs within our hearts a tremendous sense of pride year-round, but especially on special occasions.

“That pride often swells and quickens when talented Bahamians, from the Golden Girls and Boys to Rhodes Scholars, to artists and poets, among others, represent our national colours across the seas and the continents of the world.

 

SIR ARTHUR FOULKES as he addressed the One Bahamas Celebrations in Freeport, Grand Bahama Friday. Photo: BIS

 

“Through One Bahamas our ethnic, religious, creed and cultural diversity is combined into a single hymn of praise under the theme: One God, One People, One Bahamas,” he stated.

Sir Arthur added that we thank Almighty God for the blessings of a land filled with immeasurable beauty and opportunities.

“We recognise the goodness and generosity of so many Bahamians in the midst of and despite our national challenges. And we again pledge ourselves to One Bahamas,” he told the large audience.

Admitting that he was very impressed with the large turnout for the celebrations, Sir Arthur told them that even as we give thanks and celebrate the diversity and richness of our natural cultural heritage, we remember that we are part of a larger Caribbean archipelago.

“We also remember today, our Caribbean brothers and sisters who are suffering from the effects of natural disasters, the shortage of food and the threat of disease and despair.

“To borrow and slightly amend the inspiration of the poet John Donne, let me say that no Caribbean nation is an island of itself; every one is a piece of a larger regional community, a part of a global commons.

“In saying this, we recognise that even as we celebrate One Bahamas, such celebrations must inspire not only national unity, but also common cause in the building of a human civilisation dedicated to the uplifting of all peoples,” Sir Arthur stated.

He reminded all, that still, our singular task is to build a better world through building a better Bahamas.

“Even as we surmount the challenges posed by a global economic slowdown, we have the privilege and responsibility of being active and engaged, whether we are senior citizens or youth stewards of our Bahamaland,” he added.

In that spirit, he invited and encouraged all Bahamians to become even more committed to community service and philanthropic efforts. He felt that many of us can give more of our time, talent and treasure, adding that oneness requires a unity of spirit, purpose and concrete action.

“So, dear friends, let us not simply curse the darkness. Let us kindle hope and refresh the light through a generosity that issues forth in civility towards our neighbours, service to fellow citizens, and solidarity with the more vulnerable and less fortunate,” he stated.

Sir Arthur Foulkes and Sir Orville Turnquest Photo: BIS

Sir Arthur and Sir Orville were given the red carpet treatment at the airport with the Honour Guards on arrival and departure Friday.

At the Independence Parks they participated in an exciting display of Bahamian culture through music, songs, dance, poetry and junkanoo performed by the many schools taking part in the celebrations.

The Grand Bahama One Bahamas Committee had bused students from as far east as McCleans Town and from West End, Grand Bahama for the fun filled celebrations, which also saw members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Royal Bahamas Defence Force participating in the Flag Raising.

WestJet resumes nonstop service to GB

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter


FREEPORT - Grand Bahama can expect thousands of visitors again this winter as WestJet resumed its seasonal non-stop service from Toronto to Freeport for a second consecutive year.
Terrence Roberts of the Ministry of Tourism Office in Freeport said the non-stop service from Canada is "very convenient" and provides an opportunity for Grand Bahama to increase its share in the growing Canadian market.

"Having this non-stop service is very convenient for our customers who can get here and begin vacationing right away without having to stop at other locations before they get here," said Mr Roberts.

The low cost carrier is expected to bring more than 10,000 visitors to Grand Bahama this year.

As part of their ongoing promotion and marketing efforts, Tourism officials are hosting a "familiarisation trip" for a number of tour planners from Canada tonight.

Mr Roberts said he is very optimistic that the event will help make some inroads into the Canadian market.

Grand Bahama was the number one destination for Canadian visitors 35 years ago, and tourism officials are trying to win back that market.

It is hoped that low-cost carriers like WestJet will help to lure visitors back to Freeport and away from competing destinations.

Mr Roberts said various hotels on Grand Bahama are part of the familiarisation trip, including the Radisson at Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort, Pelican Bay and Old Bahama Bay.

A welcome reception will be held at the great lawn at Our Lucaya Resort today.

The group will visit the various convention facilities while on the island. They also will be taken to Smith's Point Fish Fry, Junkanoo Beach Club and some nightspots.

Authenti-City comes to Grand Bahama, November 25-27th

Freeport, Grand Bahama - The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation and The Ministry of Tourism presents, The Annual Grand Bahama Trade Show: Authenti-City from November 25th to 27th on Retail Street at Our Lucaya Resort.

A place to find everything Bahamian! Over 20 booths featuring artisans and manufacturers from Grand Bahama.

Products to be showcased: jams, jellies, conch shell items, bath and body products, candles, designer straw bags, portfolios, wallets and more. Wood carvings, sand jewelry, Bahamian packaged foods and much, much more!

A new classy store opens in the International Bazaar

Owner of Classy Clutter, Sheila Johnson-Smith is pictured with Father Harry Bain who officially blessed and opened the store.

Barefoot Marketing

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- Taking advantage of the increasing popularity of the revitalized International Bazaar, Shelia Johnson-Smith, opened 'Classy Clutter' in the arcade of the bazaar in early November. Smith's store is a one-of-a-kind home accessories and decor store. She noted, "It reminds you of shopping in home specialty stores in the US or Europe - but with our Bahamian flair."

Classy Clutter carries unique, one-of-a-kind accessories to help add those special touches to any home. Vases, lamps, pillows, decorative pieces and more fill the beautiful store at affordable prices just in time for the Christmas giving season. "It's these pieces of 'clutter' that add class to any home and create those eclectic touches that individualize your house," said Smith.

The motto of the store is 'Making Your World More Beautiful.' Smith noted, "If clients don't find what they want, no problem, we will find it for you and help make your home more beautiful in a flash." The store is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm.

Featured Listing!! 16 Fortune Cay Club, 3 Bed, 3 bath USD 685,000 Listing ID-5586

 

#16 Fortune Cay Club   

5,577 sq. ft.

3 Bed, 3 bath

$685,000

Listing ID#5586

Island style living awaits you in this beautifully appointed three bedroom three bath home in Gated Fortune Cay Club.  This open floor plan home allows for the ease of entertaining while a wrap around patio allows the outdoors in. Amenities include a pool and tennis court with ocean views and access to the beach. This home is offered to you fully furnished. CLICK HERE FOR FULL LISTING

Men's clothing in demand at Red Cross

By CLEOPATRA MURPHY

Freeport News Reporter
Men's clothing and shoes are among the biggest demands from the public at The Bahamas Red Cross Society Grand Bahama Centre, according to administrator Mary Culmer.
"A lot of men seem to always need clothing. Shoes are in demand for men. That happens to be a demand constantly," she said.
Culmer noted that recently there has been a steady growth in the donations being given to the Red Cross, top among those items include clothing and shoes.

"Clothes and shoes are the type of things that are consistently donated and from time-to-time we have persons who would now choose the Red Cross as an area to patronize for their event," she supplied

Culmer noted that there are also parents that come in from time-to-time looking for clothing for their children, but that number is not so large.

She added that the Freeport location also supplies clothes to the centre in Eight Mile Rock by the bulk.

Culmer noted that her attention for the past couple of months has been focused on getting the 'Meals on Wheels' Program up and running again.

Now that it is operating smoothly, she added that the next project on her agenda is to increase membership with the organization so that she can form committees to develop various fund-raising projects and preparing for disasters.

"We are preparing now for the 2011 year," she said. "Fund-raisers and disaster response are the two areas that we also want to look at."

Culmer also noted that in terms of volunteership the numbers have been increasing slowly. She added that she now has five persons that come in on a regular basis to assist with preparing meals for the 'Meals on Wheels' Program.

"As the 'Meals on Wheels' expands I'd like to see more volunteerism on the delivery of the meals," she said.

Culmer added that it would lessen the burden on the one vehicle the organization currently has.

More volunteers, she said, will be able to split up and target different communities.

She added that in establishing the 'Meals on Wheels' program, Pinder's Point has been a difficult area to assess in terms of the persons who need to be on the program.

Culmer said that the Red Cross has been diligently seeking candidates who meet the requirements for the 'Meals on Wheels' Program.

She noted that if persons call in she would willingly come out to perform an assessment but they must qualify.

Culmer noted that they must be in need of a mid-day meal Monday through Friday, they must be 60 years and over and incapacitated and have no one at home that can prepare a meal.

For other persons that do not qualify, she noted that the centre can possibly provide care packages.

Culmer also provided that while donations to the centre are presently enough to sustain the 'Meals on Wheels' program, she is hopeful that the donations will increase to support the program as it continues to expand.

"The spurts of donations we have had demonstrates to me that there is an increased and a heightened awareness in the community about the needs of the Red Cross," she supplied.

Culmer also noted that the centre has recently certified three first aid, CPR-AED instructors to conduct classes at the centre.

She said that persons who are interested in obtaining certification can contact the centre as it has a training room where the classes will be conducted.

Santa's Helpers aid the Grand Bahama Children's Home

Jean Hivert, GBCH Executive Committee, and Vicky Martell of Santa's Helper's along with some of the shoes and toys that were donated to the home. 

Barefoot Marketing

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- Thanks to Santa's Helpers and Richie's Calypso, the Grand Bahama Children's Home children will have new shoes for the holidays.
Vicky Martell, the small but mighty force behind Santa's Helpers, has always wanted to help the Home and this year with her donations coming in early, she knew that the shoes would be a super benefit. "We were able to donate dressy, school and everyday shoes thanks to our partners Riche's Calypso and we snuck in a few toys to keep the boys busy over Christmas too," said Martell.
Pictured are Jean Hivert, GBCH Executive Committee, and Vicky Martell of Santa's Helper's along with some of the shoes and toys that were donated to the home. To find out how you can help the home click on to heir website at www.gbchildrenshome.com or find them on Facebook. (Barefoot Marketing photo)

Our Lucaya optimistic about 2010 holiday season

Nikia A. Wells   

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- The Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort has taken a new approach to attracting guests to Grand Bahama for the holiday season. Event bookings have increased since last year, and in conjunction with Reef Village’s recent improvements, the addition of new packages, reduced room rates and a new website, Our Lucaya is optimistic for the 2010 holiday.

Group and event bookings, for Christmas, are up. There are still spaces available, but the resort will be busy with an array of parties and other group activities. These events will not only utilize the property’s meeting spaces, but various dining outlets that will include Churchill’s, which will be reopening on Nov. 25.

Our Lucaya will also be offering a number of new promotions for the 2010 holiday season that will combine their unique dining experiences with accommodations. With the success of the resort’s Friday Night Bahamian Buffet, several other holiday themed buffets will be packaged with rooms at the resort, providing travelers with affordable options that highlight the entire property. The new holiday packages will provide value added options for guests who are price conscious, but also looking for the complete holiday experience.

Room rates have also been reduced from last year. In an attempt to attract as many travelers to Grand Bahama as possible, the resort has decided to offer pricing that can compete favorably against other comparable destinations. For guests who prefer to book online, they will soon be presented with a new web layout that offers improved graphics and more user-friendly options.

For more information, please contact the Our Lucaya Beach and Golf Resort’s Reservations Department at 373-1444

Grand Bahama Chamber announces award nominees for Business Excellence

The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce has released the names of the nominees for this year's Business Excellence Awards, which will take place on Saturday, November 20 at 7:00 p.m. at the Our Lucaya Resort.

GBCC executives say the idea for the award ceremony came about as the organization looked for ways to stimulate the community's awareness of businesspersons who offered excellent customer service and who are making progress even in the slow economic times.

Among the businesses nominated for the Company of the Year in the category for businesses with 50 employees or less are Zorba's, Atlantic Medical, Wendy's, Prestige Auto, Pelican Bay Hotel, Sunrise Medical, OBS Marine, Butler's Specialty Store, Discovery Cruise Line and Bellevue Business Depot.

In the category for the Com-pany of the Year with 50 or more employees, Bahamian Brewery and Polymers International, Ltd. are the nominees.

Keith Rolle of Gizmos & Gadgets and the Stop N' Shop Mall; Kenth Symonette of Pizza Hut and Kentucky Fried Chicken (Mone Investments) and Magnus Alnebeck of Pelican Bay Hotel are the three finalists for the Businessperson of the Year Award, while Candy Laing of Expressions Boutique; Peter Taylor of Tyler's Express Food Market and Erik Russell of Keen I Media are in the running for the Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award are Maitland Cates, Chancery Corporate Services; Jeff Butler, Butler's Group; Joan Davies, Paint Fair; Dr. Wiona Pratt and Hanns Hahn, Discovery Cruise Line.

In the category of Philanthropic Business/Business-person of the Year are Waugh Construction, Furniture Plus, Jeff Butler and Hanns Hahn.

Nominees will be judged on a number of criteria, including the age of the business; the contribution to the Bahamian economy; management/employee relations; contribution to employment and employee training and the contribution to the community.

The winners will be chosen by a panel of judges appointed by the Board of Directors of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce.

VIDEO- Savemore Foodstore opens in Grand Bahama

Video by GB TV

New Downtown Welcome Centre Officially Opens

NEW WELCOME CENTRE FOSTERS PARTNERSHIPS – GBPA executives officially welcome members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Road Traffic Department during a walkthrough of the new downtown facility. (Pictured left to right): Basil Rahming, Deputy Controller, Road Traffic Department; Ginger Moxey, Vice President-GBPA; Ian Rolle, President-GBPA; Sr. Asst. Commissioner of Police, Quinn McCartney; and Allison Campbell, Deputy Director of Business & Development Services-GBPA

Freeport, Bahamas – With the opening of the new Downtown Welcome Centre and Bus Transit Station, officials of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) are pleased with the increased police presence the facility brings to the area.

Referring to the Downtown Turnaround Project launched by GBPA in April 2009, GBPA-President, Ian Rolle, described the new multi-purpose building as an integral part of the project.

“Last year, we unveiled a three-phase plan that included a full-scale clean-up of downtown Freeport, the introduction of new landscaping, signage, benches, lighting and other aesthetically pleasing features into the area,” explained Rolle.

“As we revitalize the city’s centre, our focus is on encouraging business development. We want to create opportunities for greater economic activity and provide an environment in which businesses can flourish,” he added.

Primary aspects of the 1495 square foot handicap accessible building include a jointly-shared Royal Bahamas Police Force and Road Traffic Division satellite station, restrooms and snack shops.

Rolle was enthusiastic about the partnership. “Onsite presence of Police Force and Road Traffic officers bodes well for the safety of all parties involved,” he stated.

DOWNTOWN PROJECT BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO CITY CENTER – ‘Port Authority’ officials and representatives from various agencies celebrate the opening of the new Downtown Welcome Centre and Bus Transit Station. (Pictured left to right): Valentine Knowles, Sr. Supervisor, Road Traffic Department; Kelly Russell, Secretary, Downtown Association; Wilfred Seymour, President, Downtown Association; Arthur Jones, Vice President, Building & Development Services-GBPA; Ginger Moxey, Vice President-GBPA; Sr. Asst. Commissioner of Police, Quinn McCartney; Ian Rolle, President-GBPA; Basil Rahming, Deputy Controller, Road Traffic Department; Almondo Talbert, President, Ground Operators Association; Timothy Nottage, President, Bus Association; and Nakira Wilchcombe, Environmental Manager, Building & Development Services-GBPA

 The location of law enforcement officers in these new premises follows on the heels of a GBPA presentation of two state-of-the art Segways to the Royal Bahamas Police Force late last year. Donation of the new two-wheeled, self-balancing electronic vehicles greatly added to police mobility in patrolling the town’s center.
Under the oversight of GBPA’s Building and Development Department, construction on the new Downtown Welcome Centre and Bus Transit Station began in June of this year, by local contractors, Michael Swann and Larry Robinson of Quality Construction Limited. The building features a unique Bahamian architectural design.

On-hand for an official walkthrough of the facilities were members of GBPA, Police Force and Road Traffic officials, along with representatives from the various Downtown, Bus, Taxi and Ground Operators Associations.


As facets of the Downtown Turnaround Project aim to breathe new life into the city center, ‘Port’ officials are already planning a holiday concert to be held on December 11, in the facility’s parking lot. The program will feature a local high school marching band, various choirs, carolers and other musicians. Food donations will also be made to the Red Cross and Salvation Army for needy families on the island.

Locally shot film, Beneath the Blue has its Bahamas premiere

 Special guests of the Bahamas premiere of Beneath the Blue, left to right: Betty Bethel, Grand Bahama Ministry of Tourism; Mr and Mrs. Gregory von Hausch of FLIFF (along with their daughter); Leah Eneas, actor and her mother; and Donna Mackey of the Bahamas Film Commission for Grand Bahama Photo: The Bahamas Weekly

TheBahamasWeekly.com
Freeport, Bahamas - Thanks to a collaboration between the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) and the Grand Bahama Ministry of Tourism a Bahamas premiere screening of Beneath the Blue, a family film shot in Grand Bahama Island was held on November 8th at the Regency Theatre.

Beneath the Blue is the sequel to Eye of the Dolphin, and Bahamian Leah Eneas, one of the actors attended the screening, along with one of the film's producer's, Paul Mockler. Mockler is a resident of Grand Bahama and world renown for his underwater camera work. The film is visually stunning with most of the scenes taking place in or off the Smith's Point area, as well as at the UNEXSO dolphin sanctuary.

Bonnie Adams, Senior Program Director,FLIFF and Gregory von Hausch of FLIFF and their daughter arrive at the Regency Theatre on November 8th, 2010 Photo: The Bahamas Weekly 

 A third sequel is expected in the future and there is also talk of a TV series.

President and CEO of FLIFF was also present along with his wife and daughter. Future collaborations between FLIFF and the Film Commission of The Bahamas are expected. ABOUT THE FILM
Alyssa Harker, an 18-year-old dolphin researcher works with her famous scientist father Hawk on Grand Bahama developing a dolphin language. Beneath the Blue picks up where Eye of the Dolphin left off, showing Alyssa's powerful bond with the wild dolphin Rasca. Having assimilated to the island, the research center and the dad she never knew, Alyssa is now tested when she meets a somewhat mysterious tourist named Craig.

Paul Mockler, producer; and Leah Eneas, actor. Photo: The Bahamas Weekly

 BENEATH THE BLUE features Paul Wesley, who stars in the smash CW hit television series “Vampire Diaries." He was recently named one of Cosmopolitan’s “Fun Fearless Males of 2010". Caitlin Wachs (Alysssa) was named one of People Magazine’s “20 Teenagers Who Will Change The World” and received the Young Star Award from The Hollywood Reporter. David Keith (Hawk) is currently starring in the new hit Fox TV Series “Lonestar”, and is best known for his work in “An Officer and a Gentleman” and “Behind Enemy Lines”. The majority of the shoot took place in the quaint, friendly town of Smith’s Point, Grand Bahama, where Director Michael D Sellers worked creatively intertwining the actors and story with the Bahamian community both on land as well as beneath the ocean. Sellers captured researched developments of human-dolphin interaction while bridging fictional elements with actual ongoing supreme court rulings.

Grand Bahama Power co. $30-$40m spend's regulatory block

By NEIL HARTNELL

Tribune Business Editor

Grand Bahama's archaic electricity regulatory structure acts as a disincentive for the island's power company to make $30-$40 million in critical infrastructure investments, its chief executive told Tribune Business yesterday, because there was little prospect of generating a return from such a capital outlay.

Alan Kelley, Grand Bahama Power Company's chief executive, said that engineering a change in the regulatory structure to establish a "tie between revenues and investment" had been a key focus for him in the 10 months since he took over from E. O. Ferrell.

Pointing out that all modern electricity utility regulatory regimes included such a tie-in, enabling power companies to generate a return on their capital expenditure and still cover fuel and operational costs, Mr Kelley told Tribune Business that the company's decision to boost its power generation capacity this June had involved a straight wealth transfer from its shareholders, 20 per cent of whom are Bahamian institutional and retail investors, to its customers.

The Grand Bahama Power Company chief executive also told Tribune Business that the decision by one of its major shareholders, the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), to relinquish its investment in the company would "not have any impact".

Taqa, which acquired a 27.7 per cent stake in Grand Bahama Power Company through its 50/50 Caribbean joint venture with Japanese firm, Marubeni, yesterday announced that it was withdrawing from this partnership - in which it invested $320 million - to focus on its Middle Eastern and African interests.

This means that its 27.7 per cent interest goes back to Marubeni for the time being, Mr Kelley indicated, giving the Japanese entity majority control once again with a 55.4 per cent equity interest. The balance is held by Canadian power company Emera, which has a 25 per cent interest through its 50 per cent stake in BISX-listed ICD Utilities, the remaining 19.4 per cent being held by Bahamian shareholders.

However, Marubeni is unlikely to retain its 55.4 per cent for long. "Their strategy calls for them to have a partner, and they're in discussions with one or two others to bring it about, so I don't expect it to have any impact on the company from an operational or financial standpoint," Mr Kelley told Tribune Business.

Several observers suggested one partner likely to be interested in partnering with Marubeni was Emera, given its enthusiasm for the Caribbean and current talks for it to become the Bahamas Electricity Corporation's (BEC) operating partner. It is unlikely, though, that Marubeni would want to cede control.

Asked how Grand Bahama Power Company was performing, Mr Kelley said of 2010: "It continues to have its challenges. This year is a tough year, like 2009 was a tough year."

He confirmed that the company had plans to modernise and expand its generational and network infrastructure, improving efficiency and reliability, but told Tribune Business that Grand Bahama's regulatory regime provided no incentive for it to do so.

"I'm looking at in the neighbourhood of $30-$40 million. I'm ready to make the investment now if we get a promise of that, if we get a regulatory structure that provides for it," Mr Kelley told Tribune Business on the need for reform. "I'm not incentivised to do the right thing.

"We have a structure where there is no tie-in between revenues and investment. I'm hopeful that we will get that turned around, so that when there is a tie between the two, we have a plan to make that investment in more efficient generation capacity."

Typical utility regulatory regimes allowed power companies to recover investment and capital expenditure costs through their revenues, while also covering operational and fuel costs.

But Mr Kelley said: "The rate was established decades ago, and while it's sometimes changed by the Consumer Price Index, it has no tie to the company's investment levels. That's what we have to get changed today to make the investment. I'm hopeful we will get it turned around soon."

The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), the regulatory authority for electricity in Grand Bahama, was "working with" the utility monopoly on the issue. It had hired an "internationally-known expert on utility regulation" to advise it, and Mr Kelley said: "He gets it, and understands the need."

He told Tribune Business that Grand Bahama Power Company needed new electricity generation equipment and technology that was more efficient and reliable than the firm's current generation capacity.

Mr Kelley said that Grand Bahama Power Company's rental of extra, more efficient power generation units in the summer had improved reliability and reduced the number of power outages.

"Most of the outages are generation related, and that's why we need to make investments," he explained. Mr Kelley also told Tribune Business that the rented generation units had saved Grand Bahama customers more in fuel than it had cost to obtain them, the latter expenditure coming from shareholders.

"The costs to rent were $1.5 million, and the fuel savings were over $1.5 million. The shareholders are helping the customers to have a more reliable service," Mr Kelley said.

Old Bahama Bay Resort Unveils 2010 Holiday Packages on Grand Bahama Island

Old Bahama Bay at Ginn sur Mer, Grand Bahama Island’s premier resort and marina, invites guests to escape to the white sand beaches for memorable and relaxing holiday getaways in true Bahamian style.

Old Bahama Bay (http://www.oldbahamabay.com) provides the perfect destination and holiday packages for both families and couples seeking total relaxation in an exclusive island paradise setting this holiday season. The Bahamas resort, located just 55 miles east of Palm Beach, Florida, features tranquility at every turn with its hammock-lined beaches, crystal blue waters, spectacular sunsets, luxury guestroom accommodations and exciting on-site activities.


Thanksgiving Tingum 4 Night Package $1,592
Dates: November 22 – 28, 2010
Package includes: Four nights oceanfront jr suite accommodations, Special Thanksgiving Dinner for two, Daily full American breakfast for two, All non-motorized water sports & snorkeling, Roundtrip airport transfers, Special Old Bahama Bay gift, Tax & Service. Extra nights available at $334 per night.

Bahamian Christmas 3 Night Package - $1,420
Dates: December 20 - 28, 2010
Package includes: Three nights oceanfront jr suite accommodations, Special Christmas Dinner for two, Daily full American breakfast for two, Boxing Day Junkanoo Party & Bonfire for two, All non-motorized water sports & snorkeling, Roundtrip airport transfers, Special Old Bahama Bay gift, Tax & Service. Extra nights available at $334 per night.

Junkanoo New Years 5 Night Package - $2,742
Dates: December 29, 2010 – January 3, 2011
Package includes: Five nights oceanfront jr suite accommodations, Daily Full American breakfast for two, Special New Years Eve Dinner for two, Special Old Bahama Bay party favors, Complimentary bottle of Champagne, Junkanoo Rushout party, All non-motorized water sports & snorkeling, Roundtrip airport transfers, Tax & Service. Extra nights available at $520 per night.

Old Bahama Bay is located in West End Village, approximately 25 miles west of the city of Freeport, Grand Bahama and only 55 nautical miles east of West Palm Beach, FL. With its 73 rooms, 2 restaurants and 72 marina slips, Old Bahama Bay has a barefoot elegance ambiance with an out-island remote feel, but with the convenience of an international airport and major destination amenities all just 26 miles away. For more information or reservations please call 1-888-800-8959, email info(at)oldbahambay(dot)com or visit http://www.oldbahamabay.com/resort/inntroduction.htm.

Greening Glade Multi Family Lot Fabulous Golf Course Lot! 22,700 sq. ft. USD 105,000 Listing ID 5591

• Greening Glade Multi Family Lot
• Fabulous Golf Course Lot!
• 22,700 sq. ft.
• $105,000
• Listing ID#5591

This is the ideal lot for a single family home or investment property. An excellent opportunity for you to build your dream home or apartments! Located in Greening Glade, you have personal access to the well-manicured golf course, a short walk to dining, entertainment and the beaches.

Residents Concerned Over Grand Bahama Cruise Port Project Progress

Freeport News
Residents of the Williams and Russell Town areas say they are concerned about the progress of the proposed cruise port, saying the Government has been mum on the matter since the initial announcement.

Some residents have even questioned whether the port is still on the drawing board, since no information has been provided to indicate that it is.

When contacted regarding the project yesterday, Minister of Works and Member of Parliament for Lucaya, the constituency where the port is expected to be located, Neko Grant, said he had no update to provide on the matter.

Resident George Williams said he wishes the Government would offer some further facts, and is unsure as to what could be causing the delay.

“I don’t know if it’s bureaucracy, paperwork, or I don’t know if they’re waiting on this economic recovery to come around, of if they’re doing it closer to the time when election comes, stalling for that, but it would be good if the cruise port does come, it will be beneficial to the whole island,” he said.

“I’m kind of disappointed that it hasn’t started as yet because you want to see some progress. On the whole, the island of Grand Bahama needs some kind of movement to get some people to work. So we need to find out what’s going on with that.”

Another resident Pauline Newbold said she has heard a lot of talk among residents about what the advantages and disadvantages of the cruise port may be, but has reserved judgment herself in the absence of concrete information.

“I want to hear more about it from them so I can know. Even though you might be against it, it’s kind of hard to stand in the way of progress and if that’s the government and they already say they’re going to do it, no matter how much you fight eventually they’re going to get their way, but at least speak with the people, talk to us let us know what it is, because we might be saying one thing when it’s totally different,” she said.