PLEASE HELP IF YOU ARE ABLE...
CIRA (Cat Island Relief Aid) and
CIHS (Cat Island Humane Society)
These are both non-profit organizations.
Forwarding message from Cat Island Humane Society...
Update from Cat Island
Hello old and new friends. Thank you, Ginger Law and Celeste Gray, for
your efforts on our behalf.
As most of us still have no phone, cell phone signal, electricity,
transportation, web access, communication is challenged.
No persons were killed, no injuries were reported during the storm.
Injuries post-storm to humans are occurring, but none
life-threatening. Animals died during the storm, and many are
injured. Since we have limited communication, we really do not know.
Just this morning someone asked me for assistance for a cat with one
eye “out”. Many dogs that were untied during the storm have been hurt
(machete chop, boiling fat burns) by neighbors who don’t want them
around, scavenging for food. Most are very hungry.
The Bahamas National Defense Force, BEC, Caricom have been present and
working hard to rebuild infrastructure.
Cat Island building codes are strict, and old buildings are strong and
still standing. Roof damage is extensive.
The ease of the web illustrates that we are of one heart and spirit.
But we are not all in one space. Making donations internationally,
post disaster, from persons in one nation to another sovereign nation
is challenging and complex.
If you wish your donations to be used for animal relief, they will be
given to the Cat Island Humane Society. CIHS is incorporated as a
non-profit organization in the Bahamas. Please join our Facebook Cat
Island Humane Society (horse icon). We operate under a board of
directors. Our executive officers are: President- Sylvia Baker, Vice
President, Andrew Seymour, 2nd Vice President, Danson King, Treasurer-
Kay Chriswell, Secretary, Elza Behrens. Food donations have been made
and should reach us soon.
If you wish your donations to be used for human relief, they will be
given to Cat Island Relief Aid, a 501C3 non-profit organization
registered in the US. CIRA was started by Uschi Ingersoll after a
previous hurricane, and they deliver food packages monthly to the
elderly on Cat Island.
Most of us are tired and weary. The mosquitoes and heat are
relentless and most of us have no water. Although electricity was
only introduced in 1993, we are absolutely dependent on it! Solar is
the way to go.
Thank you all for your care and concern. And we hope you will all
come visit soon! The water is (very) warm and we will be “open for
business” any day now! …..Elza
Thursday, September 8, 2011
NEW SHIPPING ADDRESS....IMPORTANT !!!
IMPORTANT MESSAGE:
IF YOU ARE SHIPPING TO G & G ...
I received new information from Chris Illing and G&G Shipping today.
To have goods via G&G Shipping delivered FREE OF CHARGE to Cat Island, and to be in accordance with efforts made by Chris Illing, this is how the label ought to read:
HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORT
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE BAHAMAS
ATTN: CARL PINDER
CAT ISLAND
IF YOU ARE SHIPPING TO G & G ...
I received new information from Chris Illing and G&G Shipping today.
To have goods via G&G Shipping delivered FREE OF CHARGE to Cat Island, and to be in accordance with efforts made by Chris Illing, this is how the label ought to read:
HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORT
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE BAHAMAS
ATTN: CARL PINDER
CAT ISLAND
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Photos of supplies reaching Cat Island
Subject: RE: Quick Cat Island Relief Update #4
Brad,
Thanks!!....Chris mentioned in his email to me last night that we should
send over some cement and you stepped up..thanks again!!
Chris...(and the people on my main distro list included on this relief
update email) let me know what you are hearing about what we need to ship
over next.
Godspeed............
Steve
| Forwarding message: |  |
Sending out some pics of the supplies that made it to Cat...Thanks for
helping out!!!!
helping out!!!!
Following is an easy online way to send donations for Cat Island. The following will describe more in detail.
Forwarding message:
Cat Island Hurricane Relief online donations
http://www.gofundme.com/Cat-Island
Forwarding message:
Cat Island Hurricane Relief online donations
http://www.gofundme.com/Cat-Island
Goal: $5,000
Raised: $815A message from Celeste Gray
I am raising money for friends in Cat Island, Bahamas, hit by Irene while it was a category 3 hurricane. As of the inception of this campaign, the 1,800 residents are without water, food, and many necessities. The situation is extremely dire so any amount will be greatly appreciated. Some of these people stood in the pitch black storm with chest high water inside their homes over night as roofs blew off buildings from 115 mph winds, and trees were twisted by tornadoes. All appliances and home furnishings are ruined and this is a remote island so it takes great effort to get goods and materials to it.
The latest report is that the power will not be restored there for several weeks. Without power, the water plant cannot operate. The island is low on petrol so use of generators is a challenge. Private donors are all the island has had to rely on for help. Thanks to Chris and Lisa Illing of Greenwood Beach Resort, progress is being made in bringing assistance to the people of Cat Island.
The money collected will go towards providing food, water, and necessities, rebuilding their houses, providing replacements of damaged goods in their homes, and helping the animals of Cat Island Humane Society. Artist friend, nurse and organizer of Cat Island Humane Society, Elza Behrens, painted the image above. I am currently connecting with the Bahamas Humane Society and Humane Society International for assistance in getting goods to the starving animals. Funding in this matter is essential.
Supporters can also help by sharing this with your friends on facebook and via email. Remember, every little bit helps. No donation is too small. You may also call 242-457-1965 and ask for Chris Illing or Lisa Illing to offer further assistance. Thank you!
The money collected will go towards providing food, water, and necessities, rebuilding their houses, providing replacements of damaged goods in their homes, and helping the animals of Cat Island Humane Society. Artist friend, nurse and organizer of Cat Island Humane Society, Elza Behrens, painted the image above. I am currently connecting with the Bahamas Humane Society and Humane Society International for assistance in getting goods to the starving animals. Funding in this matter is essential.
Supporters can also help by sharing this with your friends on facebook and via email. Remember, every little bit helps. No donation is too small. You may also call 242-457-1965 and ask for Chris Illing or Lisa Illing to offer further assistance. Thank you!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
CAT ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY...in need of food for animals.
CAT ISLAND HUMANE SOCIETY...
animals on the island desperately in need of food, etc.
The animals on Cat Island desperately need the following supplies:
food ( for dogs, cats, horse, chickens, goats)
collars
tie cable (long leashes)
flea and tick shampoo
bowls
If you would like to donate supplies GandG Shipping will consolidate and deliver to the island for the Cat Island Humane Society.
Please ship to:
GandG Shipping
1300 Eller Drive
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316
(954) 920-9292
(For Cat Island Humane Society,
Hurricane Relief,
Cat Island, Bahamas)
Please remember to have an invoice with the package for GandG as they are prohibited to ship anything unknown.
Via Cat Island Humane Society Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cat-Island-Humane-Society/106330866065176Cat Island Humane Society
animals on the island desperately in need of food, etc.
The animals on Cat Island desperately need the following supplies:
food ( for dogs, cats, horse, chickens, goats)
collars
tie cable (long leashes)
flea and tick shampoo
bowls
If you would like to donate supplies GandG Shipping will consolidate and deliver to the island for the Cat Island Humane Society.
Please ship to:
GandG Shipping
1300 Eller Drive
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316
(954) 920-9292
(For Cat Island Humane Society,
Hurricane Relief,
Cat Island, Bahamas)
Please remember to have an invoice with the package for GandG as they are prohibited to ship anything unknown.
Via Cat Island Humane Society Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cat-Island-Humane-Society/106330866065176Cat Island Humane Society
we are ok. horses ok, even speedy with fallen fetlocks is ok! :).
claire cash in nassau has collected a pallet of food for animals. animals are starving. others are sending from florida via g&g
shipping. if you are in us or europe, please c...onsider donating any
kind of animal foor (dog, cat, horse, goat, chicken)..collars, bowls, tie cable. etc. to g& g shipping to cat island humane society. NOTE:
we cannot call from here, so please communicate with g&g or florida suppliers, thanks!
claire cash in nassau has collected a pallet of food for animals. animals are starving. others are sending from florida via g&g
shipping. if you are in us or europe, please c...onsider donating any
kind of animal foor (dog, cat, horse, goat, chicken)..collars, bowls, tie cable. etc. to g& g shipping to cat island humane society. NOTE:
we cannot call from here, so please communicate with g&g or florida suppliers, thanks!
LETTER FROM PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE !!!
Forwarding message:
Subject: Letter from the Prime Minister Office
PLEASE READ RE: CUSTOMS & DUTY INFORMATION
Dear friends of Cat Island,
Please read below and it is IMPORTANT for everyone sending supplies to Cat
Island or the Bahamas in general:
Message from the Prime Minister's Office, his right hand secretary Mrs.
Teresa Butler,
Good afternoon Ms. Munroe,
Thank you for the copy of your response to Mr. Illing. As you will now be
aware the Prime Minister, as Minister of Finance signed the Order of
Exigency yesterday providing a waiver of customs duty for Cat Island
residents on all hurricane reconstruction building supplies and replacement
of furniture, appliances and vehicles destroyed by Hurricane Irene for a 6
month period beginning on 1 September, 2011.
The Ministry of Finance (Customs Department) is working with each Family
Island Administrator in the administration of this Order.
With regard to items arriving in Cat Island applications for waiver of
customs duty can be made in Cat Island on forms available from the the
Family Island Administrator. Once the Administrator certifies the goods as
bonafide materials and supplies for hurricane repair or replacement as
listed in the Order, the Administrator is authorised to inform the Customs
Officer that he may waive the customs duty.
I am advised by the Financial Secretary, Mr. Ehurd Cunningham, that the
process has been put in place on all Family Islands with the expectations
that relief and reconstruction supplies will not be held up unnecessarily.
For all those islands not listed in the Exigency Order, application for
waivers will have to be made to NEMA as indicated by you.
I trust that this is helpful.
Teresa Butler
Office of the Prime Minister
Subject: Letter from the Prime Minister Office
PLEASE READ RE: CUSTOMS & DUTY INFORMATION
Dear friends of Cat Island,
Please read below and it is IMPORTANT for everyone sending supplies to Cat
Island or the Bahamas in general:
Message from the Prime Minister's Office, his right hand secretary Mrs.
Teresa Butler,
Good afternoon Ms. Munroe,
Thank you for the copy of your response to Mr. Illing. As you will now be
aware the Prime Minister, as Minister of Finance signed the Order of
Exigency yesterday providing a waiver of customs duty for Cat Island
residents on all hurricane reconstruction building supplies and replacement
of furniture, appliances and vehicles destroyed by Hurricane Irene for a 6
month period beginning on 1 September, 2011.
The Ministry of Finance (Customs Department) is working with each Family
Island Administrator in the administration of this Order.
With regard to items arriving in Cat Island applications for waiver of
customs duty can be made in Cat Island on forms available from the the
Family Island Administrator. Once the Administrator certifies the goods as
bonafide materials and supplies for hurricane repair or replacement as
listed in the Order, the Administrator is authorised to inform the Customs
Officer that he may waive the customs duty.
I am advised by the Financial Secretary, Mr. Ehurd Cunningham, that the
process has been put in place on all Family Islands with the expectations
that relief and reconstruction supplies will not be held up unnecessarily.
For all those islands not listed in the Exigency Order, application for
waivers will have to be made to NEMA as indicated by you.
I trust that this is helpful.
Teresa Butler
Office of the Prime Minister
FORWARDING MESSAGES & PHOTOS:
Forwarding messages:
FW: Quick Cat Island Relief Update #3
show details Sep 3 (3 days ago)
Friends,
Just got though all of the emails from today. Keep them coming. Lots of
people doing great things...again......find away to help if you can.
As always, send me an email if you want off of these update threads...no
hard feelings. If you know of somebody that wants to be added, just have
them send me an email. I have added about 12 folks to this growing list of
Cat Islander supporters from last night.
For those of you that sent checks I have begun to receive them and will try
tomorrow to individually get back to you. Thank you very much! Cat Island
thanks you!! Also, many thanks to the wires, cash, and PayPal donations.
For those of you that want to fly to Cat and help out I received the
following from Chris Illing who is on Cat coordinating the distribution of
the much needed building materials and supplies that should arrive from G&G
Ship tomorrow (good luck tomorrow Chris):
############################################################################
##############################
BRING MOSQUITO SPRAY!!!
Things on the island are getting better. The mailboat only arrived today and
it was mayhem. But all goods were delivered and people were smiling from
left to right.
G&G should arrive tomorrow ................
After that:
Friends that come to the island should check with the various small
settlements and see who has supplies and needs help fixing the roof
In the next shipment we should include some cement since some of the
bellcourses need fixing.
We need also mosquito repellent but I'll try to have some come in via
Nassau....the bugs are bad and carry you alive.
Carpenters will be more than welcome.
############################################################################
##############################
I've also attached the HopeDepot Invoice of just my supplies but remember
many people have given generously to the Cat Island Hurricane Relief effort.
I have attached some pictures (thanks Curt for sending the aerial of my
house after the Hurricane - scary picture) that I have received today but no
way I could send them all...way to many...but one thing all of them have in
common is that Cat Islanders need help...so give, call somebody, or get on a
plane and go down and swing a hammer or man a broom....
I've also added some links from emails I have received today. Send me links
and I will share them with this distro list...
AOPA Online: Flight for survival
<http://www.aopa.org/aircraft/articles/2011/110831bahamas-relief-flights.htm
l?WT.mc_id=110902epilot&WT.mc_sect=tts>
http://remoteisland.org/content/hurricane-photos
And lastly on a more personal note, my good friend Reynold Butler of
Bainstown called me last night and said it was the worst 22 hours of his
life...he thought he was going to die.... He lost a bunch of material things
but him and God are pretty tight right now...he said "thank god I made it".
If anybody gets to Bainstown...give my brother a hug for me....he needs
one....
That is all I have tonight.....god bless and as always...godspeed....
Steve
From: Steve & Kelley Jenkins [mailto:jenkins13@blazebroadband.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 01, 2011 11:00 PM
To: 'Steve & Kelley Jenkins'
Subject: RE: Quick Cat Island Relief Update #1
Friends,
Thanks for all of the support so far! Keep it coming, we still have a ways
to go and we need to send more supplies over after this boat load gets
there.
I have dropped a couple people off this distro list per their "kind"
requests and added a whole bunch more. The original list has almost doubled
with folks just wanting to help out. If anybody else wants dropped off, just
"kindly" reply back to me...no hard feelings. If you know of somebody that
wants to be added just send me their email address and I will be happy to
add them.
Today the boat was loaded up with the above invoice of the $10,000 worth of
supplies I put on my Homedepot credit card along with Ed and Fern Hamel's
generous truck load of supplies and Chris Illings pallets of water and
shingles.!!!! The boat should arrive Saturday/Sunday under the Cat Island
NEMA Hurricane Relief effort. G&G Ship out of Florida picked up the freight
which saved us about $8,000 in shipping cost. Chris is on Cat now and will
ensure "fair" distribution of all supplies to Cat Islanders who need It the
most from the north side of the Island to the south.
To date I have received checks in the mail, wires, people have driven by the
house and dropped off money, just talking to people, some gave me cash on
the spot and my good friend reminded me about how easy it is to send money
to the relief effort via "PayPal". So tonight he made a very generous
donation as a test run and the money is in there now. If anybody else wants
to make a test run that is OK with me too...Just use my
jenkins13@blazebroadband.com address. Now, just so I don't get anymore hate
mail tonight my disclaimer is simply this. If you know me and/or trust me
and you want to funnel helping out through me than send me your donations.
If not, I would encourage you to give to somebody, something, or some
organization that can help out that you feel comfortable with. Another
option is to pick up the phone and call Store #6372 Homedepot (James Moore
or Tracey) at 954-713-0663 in Florida and tell them what you want to
purchase and tell them to send it over to Gaby at G&G Ship (954-920-9292 ext
239) in the name of:
HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORT
THE GOVERNMNET OF THE BAHAMAS
ATTN: NEMA
CAT ISLAND
G&G Ship will pick up the shipping and your purchases will be fairly
distributed by government folks on Cat Island. If you do this if you could
kindly drop me an email so I can pass that along to Chris Illing of
Greenwood Resort so he can make sure it gets distributed properly. I thank
you in advance.
Chris Illing is sending pictures of the island and the relief effort when he
gets a chance. I will collect them up and send them out to this distro list
when I get them. I will periodically send out emails and/or pictures as the
weeks go on, so again at anytime you want dropped of the distro list just
reply back.
And lastly and most importantly I realize that just blindly giving somebody
your donations takes a tremendous amount of trust and that is a humbling
experience. If you don't give to me...give to something...and not to sound
to corny...get off the sideline and get in the game...it will feel good when
you step out onto the field!!!
Sincerely,
Steve
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Below is from an email I sent out yesterday....
Friends,
I have received numerous calls and emails from supporters of the Cat Island
relief effort. Some people have even drove by the house and dropped off
money. Thank you very much! People have ask about wiring money because it is
quicker to make the funds available to help out. So below is the wiring
information to my BB&T Cat Island Relief fund account. You can still send me
a check and I will make sure it is put to good use. This is a private bank
account and I can assure you every dollar you send will go to help out Cat
Islanders. The first initial load of supplies sails Thursday from GG SHIP
and I am working on items that will go out next Thursday (order has to be to
Homedepot and paid for by Monday 1200 noon to make the boat). Chris Illing
(Greenwood Resort) will be on Cat Thursday to help with the distribution of
the current wave of supplies and will contact me with what else is needed.
G&G SHIP out of Florida is paying for the freight charge if you ship in care
of the "NEMA Cat Island Relief" effort. This is not meant for individual
relief efforts but goes to Cat Islanders and will be distributed by the
Bahamian Government to Cat Islanders who need it the most. If you have
questions you can contact Gaby at G&G SHIP and she can help you out.
Gaby Cifuentes
G & G SHIPPING
Tel: 954-920-9292 ext. 239
Fax: 954-925-5342
HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORT
THE GOVERNMNET OF THE BAHAMAS
ATTN: NEMA
CAT ISLAND
Also, I received an email from Graham Waiting who also has started relief
efforts. http://remoteisland.org/content/home/
I am sure there are many more but I have not heard...bottom line is try to
give what you can to anybody that can help out...every little bit helps...
If for some reason there is a problem with wiring money then call Jamie and
she will assist you. Thanks for all of the support so far.
Wiring info below.
(For wiring details and mailing cheques please email Steve Jenkins directly, as I do not think it is wise to publish this info) Thank you.
Steve Jenkins
I was lucky, my house made it, others did not....Thank you very much for
your support,
Steve
P.S. Again, I have put everybody's emails out in the open so be careful if
you "reply all"...but I did this on purpose just in case people have other
relief efforts going on and want people to know about. Again, find away to
help out...I will apologies in advance if I have included anyone on this
thread that I shouldn't have..
Also, please pass this onto anybody that wants to help.....godspeed.....
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
From another email thread.......
Eli...good to hear from you....people have been asking how to help out over
the last couple of days and below is how you can immediately have an
impact.....
Today has been a crazy one to say the least....but we made some things
happen that will really benefit the Cat Islanders.....
Bottom line.... is to make the boat on Thursday that is leaving Florida via
GG Ship to Cat Island I had to have an order into Homedepot by 2PM ish today
so I put $10,000 on my personal Homedepot credit card. I did not have time
to organize how people could individually give.... I had to put a game plan
together fast..... and as you know I am no way, shape or form independently
wealthy..... I am hoping to get $9,000 in donations to cover some of my
card. If you (or anyone else on this thread) wants to help you could send
some money to the following address:
Steve Jenkins
9107 Knoll Run Lane
Marshall VA 20115
I will collect up the money and post who has given to cover this initial
surge of support but I will "not" post how much money each person gave. Some
people obviously can give more than others and any donation size is greatly
appreciated. I will keep the dollar amount of donations private. So if you
can give $5 to $9,0000 I would greatly appreciate it. If I collect more than
$9,000 I will take that money and continue to buy supplies and ship over to
help out Cat. I would like to raise $100,000 if I can...it starts with each
person reaching into their own lives and giving....
Other folks that have jumped in with both feet. Ed Hamel has given
generously and he is shipping much needed supplies over with mine. The
Bahamian government will be there to receive and fairly distribute over
$25,000 worth of "initial" relief supplies to the locals who need it the
most. Additionally, Cat Islanders have a very good friend in Chris Illing
who is working relief efforts from Nassau. He is sending over much needed
water and food on the East wind mail boat tomorrow. Together this should
help out....but this is just the beginning..it will take a lot more support
to get things somewhat stable over there.
GG SHIP and the Bahamian government is allowing us to ship to Cat for free
which will definitely help out our relief effort.
Thanks for inquiring and thanks for any help you can give. As soon as relief
supplies are on their way to Cat this week, I am flying over to help out in
any way I can. They definitely need the help...
I don't want this email to sound like begging but that is the reality of
things....we need to give back my friend.....
Godspeed............
Steve
540-878-0003 cell
P.S. please forward this email on to anyone that wants to give!....every
dollar I receive will help out our Cat Island friends...That you have my
word on......
On Aug 29, 2011, at 1:34 PM, Steve & Kelley Jenkins wrote:
Update........things r coming together...
From: Steve & Kelley Jenkins [mailto:jenkins13@blazebroadband.com]
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 2:23 PM
Subject: RE: Cat Island Relief
Chris...making the order now with Florida Homedepot....modifying my order a
bit it to add 12D framing nails (he is also sending framing material) to
compliment Ed's order...together we should be up to a $25,000 order...(James
said you called and added $2,000 worth of shingles) shipped for free by the
Bahamian government..should be a good first effort...will update u when the
dust settles....godspeed my friend...
From: A Stone's Throw Away B&B [mailto:chrisilling@live.com]
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 1:12 PM
To: 'Steve & Kelley Jenkins'
Subject: Cat Island Relief
Dear Cat Islanders and Friends,
Things starting to happen:
Tuesday: East wind is leaving from Nassau to Cat Island with lots of
drinking water and canned goods, candles etc
Thursday: G&G is leaving from Florida to Cat Island and should arrive by
Sunday (Gaby please confirm)
Steve put the following order in:
500 sheets 5/8 4x8 roofing plywood
75 rolls roofing paper
150 pounds each of 1.5 and 1/4 roofing nails 150# caps
$10,000 (I can put this on my Homedepot card...which is the limit)
I think this should cover the worst houses.
I will order now an additional $3000 of asphalt shingles
Please have all orders shipped to the following recipient:
Cat Island Relief Fund
c/o Chris Illing
I will be on the island to receive, pay the freight and distribute.
G&G will consolidate for us so we can receive the best freight rate.
(Gaby please confirm)
Philip "Brave" Davis should contact customs and make the import effortless.
(Brave please confirm)
I will make a report on which families are affected worst in New Bight and
South.
Brave please send your report on the families in the North and who needs
help first.
Please keep everyone in the loop on what you are sending down there so we
can estimate what is still needed.
Since we are doing this big effort for the first time (and hopefully last)
please send me any improvement suggestions you might have
Also please keep in mind that the southern islands of Crooked and Acklins
are worse than Cat and will need our help next.
I will try to find out what we can do to assist them.
One more note: There is hardly any gas left on the island. Ezra Russel is
now charging $8 per gallon. That must be illegal. Please make this public
knowledge. Iwill pass it on to the local media. We need the government to
supply gas and diesel.
Thank you everybody and we all act as fast as we can. Let's just think for a
minute before we act too fast.
Hope this helps
Chris Illing
FW: Quick Cat Island Relief Update #3
show details Sep 3 (3 days ago)
Friends,
Just got though all of the emails from today. Keep them coming. Lots of
people doing great things...again......find away to help if you can.
As always, send me an email if you want off of these update threads...no
hard feelings. If you know of somebody that wants to be added, just have
them send me an email. I have added about 12 folks to this growing list of
Cat Islander supporters from last night.
For those of you that sent checks I have begun to receive them and will try
tomorrow to individually get back to you. Thank you very much! Cat Island
thanks you!! Also, many thanks to the wires, cash, and PayPal donations.
For those of you that want to fly to Cat and help out I received the
following from Chris Illing who is on Cat coordinating the distribution of
the much needed building materials and supplies that should arrive from G&G
Ship tomorrow (good luck tomorrow Chris):
############################################################################
##############################
BRING MOSQUITO SPRAY!!!
Things on the island are getting better. The mailboat only arrived today and
it was mayhem. But all goods were delivered and people were smiling from
left to right.
G&G should arrive tomorrow ................
After that:
Friends that come to the island should check with the various small
settlements and see who has supplies and needs help fixing the roof
In the next shipment we should include some cement since some of the
bellcourses need fixing.
We need also mosquito repellent but I'll try to have some come in via
Nassau....the bugs are bad and carry you alive.
Carpenters will be more than welcome.
############################################################################
##############################
I've also attached the HopeDepot Invoice of just my supplies but remember
many people have given generously to the Cat Island Hurricane Relief effort.
I have attached some pictures (thanks Curt for sending the aerial of my
house after the Hurricane - scary picture) that I have received today but no
way I could send them all...way to many...but one thing all of them have in
common is that Cat Islanders need help...so give, call somebody, or get on a
plane and go down and swing a hammer or man a broom....
I've also added some links from emails I have received today. Send me links
and I will share them with this distro list...
AOPA Online: Flight for survival
<http://www.aopa.org/aircraft/articles/2011/110831bahamas-relief-flights.htm
l?WT.mc_id=110902epilot&WT.mc_sect=tts>
http://remoteisland.org/content/hurricane-photos
And lastly on a more personal note, my good friend Reynold Butler of
Bainstown called me last night and said it was the worst 22 hours of his
life...he thought he was going to die.... He lost a bunch of material things
but him and God are pretty tight right now...he said "thank god I made it".
If anybody gets to Bainstown...give my brother a hug for me....he needs
one....
That is all I have tonight.....god bless and as always...godspeed....
Steve
From: Steve & Kelley Jenkins [mailto:jenkins13@blazebroadband.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 01, 2011 11:00 PM
To: 'Steve & Kelley Jenkins'
Subject: RE: Quick Cat Island Relief Update #1
Friends,
Thanks for all of the support so far! Keep it coming, we still have a ways
to go and we need to send more supplies over after this boat load gets
there.
I have dropped a couple people off this distro list per their "kind"
requests and added a whole bunch more. The original list has almost doubled
with folks just wanting to help out. If anybody else wants dropped off, just
"kindly" reply back to me...no hard feelings. If you know of somebody that
wants to be added just send me their email address and I will be happy to
add them.
Today the boat was loaded up with the above invoice of the $10,000 worth of
supplies I put on my Homedepot credit card along with Ed and Fern Hamel's
generous truck load of supplies and Chris Illings pallets of water and
shingles.!!!! The boat should arrive Saturday/Sunday under the Cat Island
NEMA Hurricane Relief effort. G&G Ship out of Florida picked up the freight
which saved us about $8,000 in shipping cost. Chris is on Cat now and will
ensure "fair" distribution of all supplies to Cat Islanders who need It the
most from the north side of the Island to the south.
To date I have received checks in the mail, wires, people have driven by the
house and dropped off money, just talking to people, some gave me cash on
the spot and my good friend reminded me about how easy it is to send money
to the relief effort via "PayPal". So tonight he made a very generous
donation as a test run and the money is in there now. If anybody else wants
to make a test run that is OK with me too...Just use my
jenkins13@blazebroadband.com address. Now, just so I don't get anymore hate
mail tonight my disclaimer is simply this. If you know me and/or trust me
and you want to funnel helping out through me than send me your donations.
If not, I would encourage you to give to somebody, something, or some
organization that can help out that you feel comfortable with. Another
option is to pick up the phone and call Store #6372 Homedepot (James Moore
or Tracey) at 954-713-0663 in Florida and tell them what you want to
purchase and tell them to send it over to Gaby at G&G Ship (954-920-9292 ext
239) in the name of:
HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORT
THE GOVERNMNET OF THE BAHAMAS
ATTN: NEMA
CAT ISLAND
G&G Ship will pick up the shipping and your purchases will be fairly
distributed by government folks on Cat Island. If you do this if you could
kindly drop me an email so I can pass that along to Chris Illing of
Greenwood Resort so he can make sure it gets distributed properly. I thank
you in advance.
Chris Illing is sending pictures of the island and the relief effort when he
gets a chance. I will collect them up and send them out to this distro list
when I get them. I will periodically send out emails and/or pictures as the
weeks go on, so again at anytime you want dropped of the distro list just
reply back.
And lastly and most importantly I realize that just blindly giving somebody
your donations takes a tremendous amount of trust and that is a humbling
experience. If you don't give to me...give to something...and not to sound
to corny...get off the sideline and get in the game...it will feel good when
you step out onto the field!!!
Sincerely,
Steve
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Below is from an email I sent out yesterday....
Friends,
I have received numerous calls and emails from supporters of the Cat Island
relief effort. Some people have even drove by the house and dropped off
money. Thank you very much! People have ask about wiring money because it is
quicker to make the funds available to help out. So below is the wiring
information to my BB&T Cat Island Relief fund account. You can still send me
a check and I will make sure it is put to good use. This is a private bank
account and I can assure you every dollar you send will go to help out Cat
Islanders. The first initial load of supplies sails Thursday from GG SHIP
and I am working on items that will go out next Thursday (order has to be to
Homedepot and paid for by Monday 1200 noon to make the boat). Chris Illing
(Greenwood Resort) will be on Cat Thursday to help with the distribution of
the current wave of supplies and will contact me with what else is needed.
G&G SHIP out of Florida is paying for the freight charge if you ship in care
of the "NEMA Cat Island Relief" effort. This is not meant for individual
relief efforts but goes to Cat Islanders and will be distributed by the
Bahamian Government to Cat Islanders who need it the most. If you have
questions you can contact Gaby at G&G SHIP and she can help you out.
Gaby Cifuentes
G & G SHIPPING
Tel: 954-920-9292 ext. 239
Fax: 954-925-5342
HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORT
THE GOVERNMNET OF THE BAHAMAS
ATTN: NEMA
CAT ISLAND
Also, I received an email from Graham Waiting who also has started relief
efforts. http://remoteisland.org/content/home/
I am sure there are many more but I have not heard...bottom line is try to
give what you can to anybody that can help out...every little bit helps...
If for some reason there is a problem with wiring money then call Jamie and
she will assist you. Thanks for all of the support so far.
Wiring info below.
(For wiring details and mailing cheques please email Steve Jenkins directly, as I do not think it is wise to publish this info) Thank you.
Steve Jenkins
I was lucky, my house made it, others did not....Thank you very much for
your support,
Steve
P.S. Again, I have put everybody's emails out in the open so be careful if
you "reply all"...but I did this on purpose just in case people have other
relief efforts going on and want people to know about. Again, find away to
help out...I will apologies in advance if I have included anyone on this
thread that I shouldn't have..
Also, please pass this onto anybody that wants to help.....godspeed.....
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
From another email thread.......
Eli...good to hear from you....people have been asking how to help out over
the last couple of days and below is how you can immediately have an
impact.....
Today has been a crazy one to say the least....but we made some things
happen that will really benefit the Cat Islanders.....
Bottom line.... is to make the boat on Thursday that is leaving Florida via
GG Ship to Cat Island I had to have an order into Homedepot by 2PM ish today
so I put $10,000 on my personal Homedepot credit card. I did not have time
to organize how people could individually give.... I had to put a game plan
together fast..... and as you know I am no way, shape or form independently
wealthy..... I am hoping to get $9,000 in donations to cover some of my
card. If you (or anyone else on this thread) wants to help you could send
some money to the following address:
Steve Jenkins
9107 Knoll Run Lane
Marshall VA 20115
I will collect up the money and post who has given to cover this initial
surge of support but I will "not" post how much money each person gave. Some
people obviously can give more than others and any donation size is greatly
appreciated. I will keep the dollar amount of donations private. So if you
can give $5 to $9,0000 I would greatly appreciate it. If I collect more than
$9,000 I will take that money and continue to buy supplies and ship over to
help out Cat. I would like to raise $100,000 if I can...it starts with each
person reaching into their own lives and giving....
Other folks that have jumped in with both feet. Ed Hamel has given
generously and he is shipping much needed supplies over with mine. The
Bahamian government will be there to receive and fairly distribute over
$25,000 worth of "initial" relief supplies to the locals who need it the
most. Additionally, Cat Islanders have a very good friend in Chris Illing
who is working relief efforts from Nassau. He is sending over much needed
water and food on the East wind mail boat tomorrow. Together this should
help out....but this is just the beginning..it will take a lot more support
to get things somewhat stable over there.
GG SHIP and the Bahamian government is allowing us to ship to Cat for free
which will definitely help out our relief effort.
Thanks for inquiring and thanks for any help you can give. As soon as relief
supplies are on their way to Cat this week, I am flying over to help out in
any way I can. They definitely need the help...
I don't want this email to sound like begging but that is the reality of
things....we need to give back my friend.....
Godspeed............
Steve
540-878-0003 cell
P.S. please forward this email on to anyone that wants to give!....every
dollar I receive will help out our Cat Island friends...That you have my
word on......
On Aug 29, 2011, at 1:34 PM, Steve & Kelley Jenkins wrote:
Update........things r coming together...
From: Steve & Kelley Jenkins [mailto:jenkins13@blazebroadband.com]
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 2:23 PM
Subject: RE: Cat Island Relief
Chris...making the order now with Florida Homedepot....modifying my order a
bit it to add 12D framing nails (he is also sending framing material) to
compliment Ed's order...together we should be up to a $25,000 order...(James
said you called and added $2,000 worth of shingles) shipped for free by the
Bahamian government..should be a good first effort...will update u when the
dust settles....godspeed my friend...
From: A Stone's Throw Away B&B [mailto:chrisilling@live.com]
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 1:12 PM
To: 'Steve & Kelley Jenkins'
Subject: Cat Island Relief
Dear Cat Islanders and Friends,
Things starting to happen:
Tuesday: East wind is leaving from Nassau to Cat Island with lots of
drinking water and canned goods, candles etc
Thursday: G&G is leaving from Florida to Cat Island and should arrive by
Sunday (Gaby please confirm)
Steve put the following order in:
500 sheets 5/8 4x8 roofing plywood
75 rolls roofing paper
150 pounds each of 1.5 and 1/4 roofing nails 150# caps
$10,000 (I can put this on my Homedepot card...which is the limit)
I think this should cover the worst houses.
I will order now an additional $3000 of asphalt shingles
Please have all orders shipped to the following recipient:
Cat Island Relief Fund
c/o Chris Illing
I will be on the island to receive, pay the freight and distribute.
G&G will consolidate for us so we can receive the best freight rate.
(Gaby please confirm)
Philip "Brave" Davis should contact customs and make the import effortless.
(Brave please confirm)
I will make a report on which families are affected worst in New Bight and
South.
Brave please send your report on the families in the North and who needs
help first.
Please keep everyone in the loop on what you are sending down there so we
can estimate what is still needed.
Since we are doing this big effort for the first time (and hopefully last)
please send me any improvement suggestions you might have
Also please keep in mind that the southern islands of Crooked and Acklins
are worse than Cat and will need our help next.
I will try to find out what we can do to assist them.
One more note: There is hardly any gas left on the island. Ezra Russel is
now charging $8 per gallon. That must be illegal. Please make this public
knowledge. Iwill pass it on to the local media. We need the government to
supply gas and diesel.
Thank you everybody and we all act as fast as we can. Let's just think for a
minute before we act too fast.
Hope this helps
Chris Illing
Cat Island Partners and The PGA relief efforts
On Wednesday August 31, 2011 Cat Island Partners and The PGA flew in a cargo plane with relief efforts for Cat Islanders after Hurricane Irene. The plane landed at Hawk's Nest.
will send another a email later today, with a pic of our drinking water distribution efforts. I will be in a meeting with some 'officials' tmrw morning at 9am. Hope to have a better idea of how things are going afterwards, will send you what I know tmrw as well. I can tell you that 25 tarps CIPL and The PGA flew in with cargo plane have been given to Jr johnson of Smith's Bay and he and a crew of 3 have been working from New Bight working their way down south and covering roofs. He got the last remaining tarps last night and was working in Port Howe this morning. He has a list of people he has covered. I may be able to get some names to you at some point as well
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: kristy pawlik
will send another a email later today, with a pic of our drinking water distribution efforts. I will be in a meeting with some 'officials' tmrw morning at 9am. Hope to have a better idea of how things are going afterwards, will send you what I know tmrw as well. I can tell you that 25 tarps CIPL and The PGA flew in with cargo plane have been given to Jr johnson of Smith's Bay and he and a crew of 3 have been working from New Bight working their way down south and covering roofs. He got the last remaining tarps last night and was working in Port Howe this morning. He has a list of people he has covered. I may be able to get some names to you at some point as well
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: kristy pawlik
Sister Eileen requesting information on people in New Bight, Cat Island
Forwarding message from Sister Eileen:
Ginger,
Can you post Sister Eileen's request...thanks so much.
My phone and e-mail service has been out since Thurs. am.
As you can imagine, I have heard that Gili is OK but I wonder about NewBight folks. Nicker Knowles and Grace Dorsett & Bluebird folks; Vernice Storr, Idell Dorsett (she lives on beach road south of NewBight Primary), Sam Romer's family, Rosie McKinney and Bernadette Lightbourne family; QUEENIE GILBERT & neighbors, Angela McKenzie & family (siblings, children, her Mom), Bernice Poitier &family? ETC.ETC. Was Holy Redeemer used as the shelter? I heard the airport and Candy's store as well as govt. bldg. were 'destroyed'? I'm feeling 'powerless' here; please keep me up-to-date. Eileen
Ginger,
Can you post Sister Eileen's request...thanks so much.
My phone and e-mail service has been out since Thurs. am.
As you can imagine, I have heard that Gili is OK but I wonder about NewBight folks. Nicker Knowles and Grace Dorsett & Bluebird folks; Vernice Storr, Idell Dorsett (she lives on beach road south of NewBight Primary), Sam Romer's family, Rosie McKinney and Bernadette Lightbourne family; QUEENIE GILBERT & neighbors, Angela McKenzie & family (siblings, children, her Mom), Bernice Poitier &family? ETC.ETC. Was Holy Redeemer used as the shelter? I heard the airport and Candy's store as well as govt. bldg. were 'destroyed'? I'm feeling 'powerless' here; please keep me up-to-date. Eileen
Saturday, September 3, 2011
NEW POSTS....I CAN POST AGAIN...send your info to me !!!
I now have power and INTERNET so I can post again. :)
If you have comments, links, emails, photos, etc. that you would like me to post please email me at: gingerl@starband.net .
Thanks everyone for all that you have been doing for Cat Island.
Best to all of you,
Ginger
If you have comments, links, emails, photos, etc. that you would like me to post please email me at: gingerl@starband.net .
Thanks everyone for all that you have been doing for Cat Island.
Best to all of you,
Ginger
Monday, August 29, 2011
HELP & SUPPLIES NEEDED:
Forwarding Comment:
Sent: 8/28/2011 12:21:20 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
Subj: From Andrew...
Friends Im ok but people in Nassau in a position to help, The settlements of Cat Island are in dire need. There is no power water and low supplies of food and it is not likely to improve for weeks if not months. There is no plumbing in The settlement of Devils Point no water no fefrigeration or freezer to keep food frexh escept my house has solar working and we are moving freezers out there
Almost everyone on the island has some kind of roof damage and people areThere are a couple of small working genersators for the whoele settlement that areall the power availab;e. No lights or fans or phones. We need rechargeable lights that i cna charge from my solar and candles . I also have rain water tanks and working pumps so we are trying to supply those in need with water.
There is no cell communication and only a few internet connections working. wet and we will eventually need materials to rebuild. There is some gas and diesel on the island but it will run out and it is expensive as hell and nobody has any money and banks are not working. Lisa Illing is coordinating relief and she needs help. She can be reached at 457 1965,,
She is really going to need help. Any one who can help please do with money logistics and transportation to Cat island. NEMA and The government are overwhelmed and mostly ineffective so far. The need will become more dire as time goes on. I will not be able to respond to every message as computer access is limited as is time
If anybody wants to come help they will need to bring food and supplies and i cannot pick people up i can house them but i dont have gas or time to find them at the airport and no way to know if anybody is coming. The best thing for us would be a boatload or planeloads of supplies into Hawk. s nest. I dont mean to overhype this situation but it could get worse as time goes on and i want to try to stay ahead of this situation beforee it gets worse.
Thanks andrew
Sent: 8/28/2011 12:21:20 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time
Subj: From Andrew...
Friends Im ok but people in Nassau in a position to help, The settlements of Cat Island are in dire need. There is no power water and low supplies of food and it is not likely to improve for weeks if not months. There is no plumbing in The settlement of Devils Point no water no fefrigeration or freezer to keep food frexh escept my house has solar working and we are moving freezers out there
Almost everyone on the island has some kind of roof damage and people areThere are a couple of small working genersators for the whoele settlement that areall the power availab;e. No lights or fans or phones. We need rechargeable lights that i cna charge from my solar and candles . I also have rain water tanks and working pumps so we are trying to supply those in need with water.
There is no cell communication and only a few internet connections working. wet and we will eventually need materials to rebuild. There is some gas and diesel on the island but it will run out and it is expensive as hell and nobody has any money and banks are not working. Lisa Illing is coordinating relief and she needs help. She can be reached at 457 1965,,
She is really going to need help. Any one who can help please do with money logistics and transportation to Cat island. NEMA and The government are overwhelmed and mostly ineffective so far. The need will become more dire as time goes on. I will not be able to respond to every message as computer access is limited as is time
If anybody wants to come help they will need to bring food and supplies and i cannot pick people up i can house them but i dont have gas or time to find them at the airport and no way to know if anybody is coming. The best thing for us would be a boatload or planeloads of supplies into Hawk. s nest. I dont mean to overhype this situation but it could get worse as time goes on and i want to try to stay ahead of this situation beforee it gets worse.
Thanks andrew
SUPPLIES & HELP NEEDED:
Forwarding comment:
Bob CheyneyHi Fern.... Just talked to Chris and your house is fine. From what he said, a...
3:52 PM (23 hours ago)
Bob CheyneyLoading...3:52 PM (23 hours ago)
Reply |Bob Cheyney to feham
show details 3:52 PM (23 hours ago)
Hi Fern....
Just talked to Chris and your house is fine. From what he said, a few shingles are missing from the top cupola. Hope you made out ok in Maryland???
Below is an e-mail Lisa and Chris Illing and from Andrew Jones. I just talked to him on Skype a few minutes ago. If the government does not do something soon to restore electric "quickley", there could be severe health concerns. Locals are using their yards, etc as bathrooms
(no water for toilets to work) and food spoiling in frig's and freezers......after that....."no food" + no medicine. They could easily end up with a lot of disease that could be epidemic. Some folks have generators but not enough and fuel is like gold.
BEC will not recieve any diesel fuel until at least Sep 2nd. Not anywhere near enough electric poles or wire on hand for replacement. Even if there was, there is only 1 (2 at the most) truck for digging the holes and setting poles and no gas to operate the truck.
The road is passable from north to south but in very bad condition in a lot of places, especially from Smith Bay to Knowles. Poles and wires down everywhere.
Smith Bay partially operational but not sure if the mail boat can dock? Also, as you will see in Andrew's letter, trying to get supplies in will be a problem. Communication with anyone is difficult at the very least so trying to tell someone that they or supplies are coming is almost impossible.
The situation is grave to say the least. I will keep you posted and will post this on the Blog. Feel free to give a call.
All the Best
Bob & Patti Cheyney
************************************************************************************************************
Dear All,
Chris is back in Nassau in one piece and feeling very relieved. We are on recovery mode for South Cat Island.
Many families in the settlements of Port Howe, Devils Point, Old Bight and New Bight really felt the brunt of Irene! Some have lost everything, some have no roofs, most have some type of structural damages. THERE IS NO POWER, poles are down everywhere. BEC has no diesel.
If you are wishing to assist with funds or otherwise, for these families who are in need of;
Can and dry goods
Water
Plastic tarps
Plywood
Shingles and roofing supply
Candles and batteries
Please contact Chris or Lisa at...
242 457 1965 or 242 376 3004... Or by email chrisilling@live.com. Lisailling@me.com
The website on Facebook is chris Illing and greenwoodbeachresort ... where you can see photos and our progress as we move forward over the next few days and weeks in helping the south recover.
Thank you, Chris and Lisa Illing
Bob CheyneyHi Fern.... Just talked to Chris and your house is fine. From what he said, a...
3:52 PM (23 hours ago)
Bob CheyneyLoading...3:52 PM (23 hours ago)
Reply |Bob Cheyney to feham
show details 3:52 PM (23 hours ago)
Hi Fern....
Just talked to Chris and your house is fine. From what he said, a few shingles are missing from the top cupola. Hope you made out ok in Maryland???
Below is an e-mail Lisa and Chris Illing and from Andrew Jones. I just talked to him on Skype a few minutes ago. If the government does not do something soon to restore electric "quickley", there could be severe health concerns. Locals are using their yards, etc as bathrooms
(no water for toilets to work) and food spoiling in frig's and freezers......after that....."no food" + no medicine. They could easily end up with a lot of disease that could be epidemic. Some folks have generators but not enough and fuel is like gold.
BEC will not recieve any diesel fuel until at least Sep 2nd. Not anywhere near enough electric poles or wire on hand for replacement. Even if there was, there is only 1 (2 at the most) truck for digging the holes and setting poles and no gas to operate the truck.
The road is passable from north to south but in very bad condition in a lot of places, especially from Smith Bay to Knowles. Poles and wires down everywhere.
Smith Bay partially operational but not sure if the mail boat can dock? Also, as you will see in Andrew's letter, trying to get supplies in will be a problem. Communication with anyone is difficult at the very least so trying to tell someone that they or supplies are coming is almost impossible.
The situation is grave to say the least. I will keep you posted and will post this on the Blog. Feel free to give a call.
All the Best
Bob & Patti Cheyney
************************************************************************************************************
Dear All,
Chris is back in Nassau in one piece and feeling very relieved. We are on recovery mode for South Cat Island.
Many families in the settlements of Port Howe, Devils Point, Old Bight and New Bight really felt the brunt of Irene! Some have lost everything, some have no roofs, most have some type of structural damages. THERE IS NO POWER, poles are down everywhere. BEC has no diesel.
If you are wishing to assist with funds or otherwise, for these families who are in need of;
Can and dry goods
Water
Plastic tarps
Plywood
Shingles and roofing supply
Candles and batteries
Please contact Chris or Lisa at...
242 457 1965 or 242 376 3004... Or by email chrisilling@live.com. Lisailling@me.com
The website on Facebook is chris Illing and greenwoodbeachresort ... where you can see photos and our progress as we move forward over the next few days and weeks in helping the south recover.
Thank you, Chris and Lisa Illing
SUPPLIES NEEDED:
Forwarding comment:
Tameron Armbrister posted on your Wall.
"can u please add this to your blog:
Any donations for Cat Island please send to Fernandez Bay Village, 151 North Nob Hill Rd, #310, Plantation, FL. 33324
Need:
-Home Depot Gift Cards
-Flashlites
-Batteries
-Tarps
-Nails
-Publix Gift Cards
-Canned Food
-Costco Gift Cards
-Candles
-Games/Books for the kids
Thank you all for your help."
Tameron Armbrister posted on your Wall.
"can u please add this to your blog:
Any donations for Cat Island please send to Fernandez Bay Village, 151 North Nob Hill Rd, #310, Plantation, FL. 33324
Need:
-Home Depot Gift Cards
-Flashlites
-Batteries
-Tarps
-Nails
-Publix Gift Cards
-Canned Food
-Costco Gift Cards
-Candles
-Games/Books for the kids
Thank you all for your help."
Posting and comments
Hi all,
PLEASE READ ALL COMMENTS. PEOPLE ARE TRYING TO GET IMPORTANT MESSAGES OUT!
UNfortunately, I have very sporadic cell coverage and I'm without power.
TO POST A MESSAGE YOU WILL NEED TO LEAVE A COMMENT UNDER THIS POST.
PLEASE READ ALL COMMENTS. PEOPLE ARE TRYING TO GET IMPORTANT MESSAGES OUT!
UNfortunately, I have very sporadic cell coverage and I'm without power.
TO POST A MESSAGE YOU WILL NEED TO LEAVE A COMMENT UNDER THIS POST.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Saturday night - Wishing everyone a safe and restful night.
Saturday night - Wishing everyone a safe and restful night.
FYI...I will most likely lose power tomorrrow (a.m. or p.m. - not sure) for several days and will be unable to post new information.
I kindly ask all of you to post (comment) to this post any information you have regarding people on Cat Island, their homes, infrastructure, photos, contact information, etc.. Your efforts are greatly appreciated by those on Cat Island and abroad.
Thank you and good night.
Ginger
FYI...I will most likely lose power tomorrrow (a.m. or p.m. - not sure) for several days and will be unable to post new information.
I kindly ask all of you to post (comment) to this post any information you have regarding people on Cat Island, their homes, infrastructure, photos, contact information, etc.. Your efforts are greatly appreciated by those on Cat Island and abroad.
Thank you and good night.
Ginger
Sister Eileen requesting information on friends in New Bight.
From a comment: Has anyone been in contact with or know how the following people in New Bight are???
Sister Eileen Kelly has sent you a link to a blog:
Like Y.Cartwright, I'd like to ask about Rosie's family and Queenie's...I lived with them in NewBight for 9 yrs. How did HolyRedeemer Church do in 'Irene'? S.Eileen
Sister Eileen Kelly has sent you a link to a blog:
Like Y.Cartwright, I'd like to ask about Rosie's family and Queenie's...I lived with them in NewBight for 9 yrs. How did HolyRedeemer Church do in 'Irene'? S.Eileen
Woman requesting information on family members/friends???
If anyone has information regarding the following people would you kindly place a comment to Ms. Cartwright? Thank you!
1 comments:
- This is Yvonne Cartwright in Freeport, does anyone update on Rosie & Sean Mckinney, Bernadette Lightbourne, Dwaine Adderley & family (New Bight) and the Harris family in Knowles? We aren't to reach them by phone, so an update will be very reassuring. Thank you To all the residents of Cat Island, we must thank God that no life was lost!
BEC (Bahamas Electricity Corp) update!
Following is information on electricity (BEC) on Cat Island and throughout the Bahamas via the Tribune:
Many homes still without electricity
Share This Article:
Diigo/Furl
Most of the utility poles and power lines like this one in Cat Island were badly damaged or destroyed. (Photo: Felipe Major/Tribune)
By CELESTE NIXON
Tribune Staff Reporter
cnixon@tribunemedia.net
TEN per cent of New Providence was still without electricity this morning, according to BEC officials.
According to a statement released by the corporation early Saturday morning, restoration efforts in New Providence and the Family Islands is in full progress.
It said: "Teams worked overnight in an effort to restore supply to the 10% of customers who remain without service."
On Thursday afternoon, BEC crews were dispatched around the capital to began assessment and restoration of supplies to customers.
Spokeswoman Arnette Ingraham said there are pockets of areas and individual residences that are still without electricity.
Beginning Saturday morning, BEC crews will be working to restore electricity supply to a small number of customers in the following general areas:
Ridgeland Park, Chippingham, Rosebud Road, Quarry Mission Road, Bain Town, Nassau East, Fox Hill Rd, Seabreeze, Imperial Park, Tropical Gardens, Cordeaux Ave., West End Ave., Water Street, Lyon Road, Lake View Road, Carl Drive, McCullough Corner, Perpall Tract, Sunderland Road, Kennedy Subdivison, Flamingo Heights, Gamble Heights, Bilney Lane, Shirley Slope, South Beach, Soldier Road, Faith Gardens, Pride Estates, Adelaide, Village Estates, McKinney Drive, and Lyford Cay
While crews are trying to restore supply to these areas, Ms Ingraham said the corporation is requesting the public to be patient.
BEC explained "that as areas and communities become re-energized there are cases where residents in the same area or on the same streetmay not be restored at the same time. In some cases, customers may be supplied by
different high voltage lines or receive supply from different transformers. Moreover, there are a number of individual customer issues that require additional attention. BEC reminds customers of its restoration plan which is to restore major substations (which has been completed), followed by different communities, and finally to handle
individual power related concerns."
In the Family Islands, BEC said electricity has been fully restored to Inagua, Great Harbour Cay, Rum Cay, Long Cay, North, Central and South Andros, Bimini and the majority of customers in Crooked Island.
Corporation officials said there are several islands where there was significant damage to BEC's "transmission and distribution networks" which include Abaco, Acklins, Cat Island, Crooked Island, Eleuthera, Exuma, Long Island and Mayaguana.
A technical team from New Providence is already on the ground in Cat Island; badly hit by Hurricane Irene. BEC officials are also expected to fly in to some of those hard hit islands today. Supplies and crew are on standby ready to begin restoring service to these areas.
Cpt Steven Russell, director of NEMA, said BEC is partnering with BTC and the Caribbean Regional Electricity Generation to coordinate restoration efforts for islands still without telephone and power.
He said in order for electricity and telephone services to be restored to areas such as Cat Island, downed and damaged utility polls will have to be replaced.
Cpt Russell said utility polls will have to be barged to the various islands, shipping them is very dependent on the weather and sea conditions which won't be possible until ocean conditions are calmer.
BEC encourages customers to call the Corporation's Customer Service Call Centre to report any problems or outages.
The contact numbers are: 302-1000, 302-1257, 302-1675, 322-4930 or 302-1001. For those without phone service, representatives are also available at BEC's Administration Office on Blue Hill and Tucker Roads until 4.30pm.
AIRPORT UPDATES THROUGHOUT THE BAHAMAS
FOLLOWING ARE AIRPORT UPDATES THROUGHOUT THE BAHAMAS INCLUDING CAT ISLAND via the Tribune.
Operations restored at most airports
Share This Article:
Published On:Saturday, August 27, 2011
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net
MOST airports across the Bahamas sustained minimal damage from Hurricane Irene, enabling operations to be restored yesterday morning, said emergency officials.
The Lynden Pindling International Airport, the country's main gateway, was back in business from early Friday morning, accommodating passengers trying to leave the country.
Officials from the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) said the majority of the activity was at the US-departures section, where American Airlines, US Airways, Continental, Delta, Bahamas Air and Jet Blue were in operation. Air Tran did not operate flights yesterday, but they are expected to be up and running today.
Jet Blue and Bahamas Air officials were on site from as early as 8am to check in passengers. It was a Jet Blue aircraft that arrived at 9.01 as the first inbound flight from Fort Lauderdale. Jet Blue also had the first outbound flight, heading to Orlando at 10.25am. Most airlines were in talks with their head offices yesterday, working to restore regularly scheduled flights.
NAD officials are advising passengers to contact their airlines directly to confirm flight times and to reschedule where necessary.
As Hurricane Irene continues to threaten the East coast of the United States, passengers are advised to be mindful of potential airport closures in the US.
The major disruption reported at the LPIA was the closure of US Pre-clearance. Bahamian passengers were disgruntled about the closure, as they were unable to book flights at the airport without a US VISA. Ordinarily, Bahamians are able to travel with identification and a police record; however, airlines would not book passengers as a result of the US Pre-clearance closure.
Passengers claimed there were US Immigration officials "walking around the airport", which further upset them. NAD officials were in discussions with US officials yesterday, working out when US Pre-clearance would open.
Last night, it was announced that pre-clearance services will not available until tomorrow.
The airport said in a statement that post-clearance will continue to be in effect throughout the day today.
Bahamians who have plans to travel to the United States this morning with only a police record will not be able to travel, the statement warned.
Visas are required for all persons entering the US, where they will clear Immigration and Customs.
"United States Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) will restore full pre-clearance services as soon as their staff complement returns to normal levels.
"Updates will be provided as circumstances change. All passengers are asked to be patient with these new arrangements as these are unusual circumstances.
"Every effort is being made to have the US departures experience be as efficient and pleasant as possible," the statement said.
Three Abaco airports - Marsh Harbour, Treasure Cay and Moss Island - were out of service yesterday, as a result of Hurricane Irene, said Captain Patrick Rolle, Civil Aviation director. The Rum Cay airport was also closed, as aviation officials were not able to communicate with the island as of yesterday afternoon.
The Grand Bahama International Airport experienced major flooding, which covered the tarmac with water and debris, and caused minor water damage to the physical building. Both the international and domestic sections were affected by the flooding.
Captain Rolle said the airport staff were working to have operations restored this morning, around 7am. Although Cat Island experienced some "extreme damage", Captain Rolle said the damage at the airport was not enough to affect operations.
All of the other Family Island airports were open as of yesterday, said Captain Rolle. "We are grateful that considering everything that has happened most of the airports are intact and open," he said.
By NOELLE NICOLLS
Tribune Staff Reporter
nnicolls@tribunemedia.net
MOST airports across the Bahamas sustained minimal damage from Hurricane Irene, enabling operations to be restored yesterday morning, said emergency officials.
The Lynden Pindling International Airport, the country's main gateway, was back in business from early Friday morning, accommodating passengers trying to leave the country.
Officials from the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) said the majority of the activity was at the US-departures section, where American Airlines, US Airways, Continental, Delta, Bahamas Air and Jet Blue were in operation. Air Tran did not operate flights yesterday, but they are expected to be up and running today.
Jet Blue and Bahamas Air officials were on site from as early as 8am to check in passengers. It was a Jet Blue aircraft that arrived at 9.01 as the first inbound flight from Fort Lauderdale. Jet Blue also had the first outbound flight, heading to Orlando at 10.25am. Most airlines were in talks with their head offices yesterday, working to restore regularly scheduled flights.
NAD officials are advising passengers to contact their airlines directly to confirm flight times and to reschedule where necessary.
As Hurricane Irene continues to threaten the East coast of the United States, passengers are advised to be mindful of potential airport closures in the US.
The major disruption reported at the LPIA was the closure of US Pre-clearance. Bahamian passengers were disgruntled about the closure, as they were unable to book flights at the airport without a US VISA. Ordinarily, Bahamians are able to travel with identification and a police record; however, airlines would not book passengers as a result of the US Pre-clearance closure.
Passengers claimed there were US Immigration officials "walking around the airport", which further upset them. NAD officials were in discussions with US officials yesterday, working out when US Pre-clearance would open.
Last night, it was announced that pre-clearance services will not available until tomorrow.
The airport said in a statement that post-clearance will continue to be in effect throughout the day today.
Bahamians who have plans to travel to the United States this morning with only a police record will not be able to travel, the statement warned.
Visas are required for all persons entering the US, where they will clear Immigration and Customs.
"United States Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) will restore full pre-clearance services as soon as their staff complement returns to normal levels.
"Updates will be provided as circumstances change. All passengers are asked to be patient with these new arrangements as these are unusual circumstances.
"Every effort is being made to have the US departures experience be as efficient and pleasant as possible," the statement said.
Three Abaco airports - Marsh Harbour, Treasure Cay and Moss Island - were out of service yesterday, as a result of Hurricane Irene, said Captain Patrick Rolle, Civil Aviation director. The Rum Cay airport was also closed, as aviation officials were not able to communicate with the island as of yesterday afternoon.
The Grand Bahama International Airport experienced major flooding, which covered the tarmac with water and debris, and caused minor water damage to the physical building. Both the international and domestic sections were affected by the flooding.
Captain Rolle said the airport staff were working to have operations restored this morning, around 7am. Although Cat Island experienced some "extreme damage", Captain Rolle said the damage at the airport was not enough to affect operations.
All of the other Family Island airports were open as of yesterday, said Captain Rolle. "We are grateful that considering everything that has happened most of the airports are intact and open," he said.
News from the Tribune
Following is an article from the Tribune:
Davis: Irene caused millions of dollars in damage to Cat Island
Share This Article:
Published On:Saturday, August 27, 2011
By TANEKA THOMPSON
Deputy Chief Reporter
tthompson@tribunemedia.net
RESIDENTS whose homes were destroyed by Hurricane Irene began picking up the pieces of their lives yesterday, sifting through debris and repairing roofs in a desperate bid to return to normalcy.
The Tribune toured portions of Cat island yesterday with a team led by area MP Philip 'Brave' Davis, and found dozens of homes either left uninhabitable, destroyed or with significant roof damage.
Mr Davis said Irene caused millions of dollars in damage to the island and has traumatised the nearly 1,800 inhabitants.
There was no power on the island up to 8pm last night. Snapped power lines and downed poles littered the streets making it difficult to manoeuvre around significant portions of the island.
"My stove gone, fridge gone, everything gone," said Doreen Farrington, a resident of The Lot in Orange Creek.
The unemployed mother spent several frightful hours holed up in her friend's home as Irene ripped through the two-story wooden structure, taking with it a portion of the house's eastern wall.
Shattered glass, portions of the home's roof and other household debris were strewn around the property when The Tribune visited yesterday. Miraculously, Ms Farrington and the other two people in the home during the storm were not seriously hurt.
She was just one of dozens of residents on that island who were trying to sort through the damage left behind by Irene and salvage precious personal belongings.
Many also complained that food and water they had stored was washed away by torrential rain and storm surges.
"It was very heartwarming to see that despite all of the physical damages we did not lose any lives," Mr Davis told The Tribune at the end of yesterday's assessment.
"The physical damage is substantial. . . What is concerning is not just the physical restoration. . . but the hurricane was a traumatic experience. A number of persons on the island are still in a daze from what they experienced".
Mr Davis, along with PLP leader Perry Christie, plan to return to Cat Island and visit Rum Cay, San Salvador, Acklins and other islands hurt by the tropical cyclone.
By TANEKA THOMPSON
Deputy Chief Reporter
tthompson@tribunemedia.net
RESIDENTS whose homes were destroyed by Hurricane Irene began picking up the pieces of their lives yesterday, sifting through debris and repairing roofs in a desperate bid to return to normalcy.
The Tribune toured portions of Cat island yesterday with a team led by area MP Philip 'Brave' Davis, and found dozens of homes either left uninhabitable, destroyed or with significant roof damage.
Mr Davis said Irene caused millions of dollars in damage to the island and has traumatised the nearly 1,800 inhabitants.
There was no power on the island up to 8pm last night. Snapped power lines and downed poles littered the streets making it difficult to manoeuvre around significant portions of the island.
"My stove gone, fridge gone, everything gone," said Doreen Farrington, a resident of The Lot in Orange Creek.
The unemployed mother spent several frightful hours holed up in her friend's home as Irene ripped through the two-story wooden structure, taking with it a portion of the house's eastern wall.
Shattered glass, portions of the home's roof and other household debris were strewn around the property when The Tribune visited yesterday. Miraculously, Ms Farrington and the other two people in the home during the storm were not seriously hurt.
She was just one of dozens of residents on that island who were trying to sort through the damage left behind by Irene and salvage precious personal belongings.
Many also complained that food and water they had stored was washed away by torrential rain and storm surges.
"It was very heartwarming to see that despite all of the physical damages we did not lose any lives," Mr Davis told The Tribune at the end of yesterday's assessment.
"The physical damage is substantial. . . What is concerning is not just the physical restoration. . . but the hurricane was a traumatic experience. A number of persons on the island are still in a daze from what they experienced".
Mr Davis, along with PLP leader Perry Christie, plan to return to Cat Island and visit Rum Cay, San Salvador, Acklins and other islands hurt by the tropical cyclone.
From the Palm Beach Post - photos
These photos are from the Palm Beach Post:
Two men make temporary repairs to the roof of a home damaged by Hurricane Irene, on Cat Island Friday.
CAT ISLAND, BAHAMAS - A home, seriously damaged by the storm surge from Hurricane Irene, on Cat Island Friday. A group of Bahamian officials and journalists toured the island, the first people to visit the island since Irene hit.
Lannis Waters/Palm Beach Post
CAT ISLAND, BAHAMAS - A home, seriously damaged Two men make temporary repairs to the roof of a home damaged by Hurricane Irene, on Cat Island Friday.
UPDATES & a new blog for helping those on Cat Island
Hi everyone, I have been out prepping the house for the hurricane hitting here tomorrow morning. Sorry I haven't updated anything.
I may lose power here tomorrow for a few days or more and hope that all of you are able to continue posting information for those on Cat Island and abroad. Thank you so much for your efforts.
Following is some updated information:
5 comments:
- Karen Weaver said...
- FYI - I just spoke with Sky Bahamas and they are flying today (Saturday) at their normal 3:45 PM time and are back on their "regular" schedule.
- August 27, 2011 10:05 AM
- Anonymous said...
- Video from the AP in Cat Island http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBzjDiyceBg&feature=player_embedded#! Also: AP has published a story with some photos (one recognizably from Orange Creek), with info also on Periwinkles and owner Evelyn Burrows. See http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5h2Nx5KDt-B7zZ7McgInfHwgTcy 1w?docId=c6dc4652fa1f4490b06465bb73dc5e06 Finally, we've received news from Pigeon Cay and the north. Resort there sustained some damage but sounds like its not awful. Generally, in the north end of the island, its mostly cosmetic, vegetation, and water damage, so no need panic.............this is just going to take alot of work and man hours to clean up, and put the peices back together. **all homes intact at Pigeon Cay**, and pretty much same up north......expect power to be restored in the north within 2wks or less, as very few poles down........... It is clear the north fared far far better overall - our property even has a a beachfront palapa still standing.
- August 27, 2011 10:52 AM
- Mike + Michele Fish said...
- Hi has anyone heard how Leslie /Ned and the boys are doing, we hope they are okay as well as everyone else on this beautiful Island, Your friend in Canada are worry and hope all is well, our prayers and though go out you Cat Islander residences. Mike & Michele
- August 27, 2011 12:00 PM
- zardiw said...
- Mounting a relief effort: http://catislandhelp.blogspot.com/ z
- August 27, 2011 12:13 PM
- Anonymous said...
- Mike, We heard from Ned: Ned/Leslie and the boys are fine. Sounds like they had quite a night (Ned said it was a 'nightmare') but they are unharmed, some damage to their property apparently but it sounds like they fared OK.
AIRPORT INFORMATION & FLIGHTS!!!
AIRPORT INFORMATION & FLIGHTS!!!
Forwarding Comments:
Jim Roswell said...
Heard from Randy that the airport at Hawks Nest is clear. But should use caution and fly by first to inspect. I expect to fly down Sunday, noon. Will bring Bob Tilman and Cathy Benson. I understand from other people in Hawks Nest, that houses on the beach did OK, not much damage. Hawks Nest there was a lot of damage. Jim Roswell August 26, 2011 12:44 PM
Anonymous said...
Arthur's Town airport is open August 26, 2011 5:28 PM
MATT HALVORSON said...
We have 3 people who are interested in getting down to the island to help. We can help with flight costs. Anyone headed that way with room? Thanks, Matt & Sooner Halvorson August 26, 2011 9:34 PM
Forwarding Comments:
Jim Roswell said...
Comments coming in including updated HAWK'S NEST INFO
Forwarding comments: Glad to hear that the blog is helping people. Thanks.
(JR, I'm glad to hear that Randy & your dog are safe, as well as those in Devil's Point area)4 comments:
- Anonymous said...
- GINGER ..... THANKS FOR DOING THIS BLOG. IT'S BEEN A BIG HELP TO A LOT OF PEOPLE. IT'S ALLOWED US TO FEEL INFORMED AND INVOLVED EVEN THOUGH WE'RE HUNDREDS OF MILES AWAY. THE KOREENS
- August 26, 2011 10:32 PM
- Anonymous said...
- Hi Ginger, J.R. here! I think Cat Island in General faired well, considering the winds were clocked @145mph. Randy stayed at the apt. the ceiling caved in while he was in the house and lost the dog, she ended up returning after the storm. He was able to seek shelter. Lost living room & everything in Jes-Sea's room. Sucks since we just got it renovated. The point house roof came completely off and is in the front yard. Pretty sure we are going to bulldoze it down. Of course all fences, trees down. Good ol clubhouse and hotel rooms made it thru/ thank goodness we just replaced the sliding glass doors, they held up well. Airstrip is great! Most neighbors flying in tomorrow. Joe and I already shopping for supplies and flying out soon, with Bossman in tow. MY wonderful office not touched! Had internet and internet phone immediately flowing the storm. Everyone in Devils Point is fine. No houses destroyed or person's hurt. Regular hurricane damage, trees, shingles, leaks. 50 power poles down b/w HN & New Bight. Flamingo Bay did good as well, Jerry and Donna just visited me in FL, Chris & Kristi stayed at there house ( the ones running the golfcourse project). Marina docks damaged but nothing we can't repair by November. ALL BOATS DOCKED AT HAWK'S NEST HAD MINIMAL/WIND DAMAGE. WHAT A GREAT SAFE PLACE TO RIDE OUT A HURRICANE!!!! WE WILL BE READY FOR WAHOO FISHING IN NO TIME!!! CHEERS HAWKS NEST MANAGER
- August 27, 2011 2:46 AM
- this is Tom and Carol Walsh - have house in Greenwood down the road from Greenwood resort just before R & L. Any word regarding the houses down that way. Also looking for info regarding other homes near Gili. Looking to see also how some friends of our are - Carlto and Joan and their children, Mr. Zonicle and Sheila out of Port Howe. PLEASE PLEASE advise us if there is anything that we can do to help. Our love and best wishes are with everyone on the island.
- August 27, 2011 7:29 AM
- Anonymous said...
- This is Bruce Leeth. We just built the green home in Port Howe not far from Daisy Mae and next door to Mirian Storr. Can anyone give us any information on that area? Also wondering about Carl Pinder and Steve Bonaby...are they ok? Thanks
Friday, August 26, 2011
Friday night & wishing everyone a safe and restful night.
Just want to wish those in the Bahamas and those about to be hit in the U.S. a safe and restful night.
Thank you to all of you who have helped gather and post information.
Good night.
Thank you to all of you who have helped gather and post information.
Good night.
Any information regarding OLD BIGHT CHILDREN'S HOME???
Forwarded comment:
1 comments:
- Anonymous said...
- Has anyone information on the Children's Home at Old Bight?
- August 26, 2011 6:04 PM
Following are some photos coming from the Fernandez Bay Village Official site on Facebook. Thankfully, everyone that stayed on Fernandez Bay is fine including the dogs Pacer and Benni!
These photos were taken at Fernandez Bay, which is in the middle of the island on the west side close to the New Bight Airport.
These photos were taken at Fernandez Bay, which is in the middle of the island on the west side close to the New Bight Airport.
Any Orange Creek, Cat Island information????
Forwarding comment:
1 comments:
- Anonymous said...
- Any word from Orange Creek?
- August 26, 2011 5:13 PM
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)