The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I had the privilege of being a guest spectator at the Exuma Junkanoo Parade held in Georgetown Exuma on Saturday 4th of January.

As a member of The Valley Boys for over four plus decades, I never knew what is was to be a spectator, because I was always a participant, but, I can tell you this, it was the first time in many years I enjoyed the innocence, safety, love, and friendly community cohesion in a Junkanoo environment in a long time.

So many tourist in the thousands simply enjoyed themselves, just the opposite in Nassau where sadly violent activities erupts endangering the lives of innocent people who simply come to enjoy the Junkanoo parades.

The micro commercial entrepreneurs, hotels and businesses all enjoyed a safe family fun Junkanoo parade.

I must congratulate Mr Andrew Pinder, Mrs Kishlane O’Brien, Mr Fast Eddie Dames, Mr Stephen “Eggy Bump” Bain and their many team members who organised this wonderful, safe, tourist rich and family event.

I congratulate The Ministry of Tourism and Deputy PM I Chester Cooper MP for Exuma who visited the major Junkanoo Shacks encouraging the youngsters, congratulating all the members, and truly injecting himself into the heart of his community and enjoying this wonderful gift to the Bahamas called Junkanoo.

To the Junkanoo Groups,

The Crusaders, led by Mr Gavin Nottage.

The Musical Youths, led by Mr Ricky Rolle and Mr Ken McPhee, and The Warriors led by Mr Renardo McPhee and Mr Oliver “Shine” McPhee, congratulations to you all.

Special thanks to all The Nassau imported Junkanoo veterans who came and assisted the various Junkanoo Groups.

“I am watching you”…

The JCNP and all members of the Nassau Junkanoo Community, no matter what group you are in, please pay attention.

We have to adjust, adapt, and overcome obstacles, or will continue to turn our fans away.

You will be rushing to empty bleachers.

We must honestly address the continuous known problems and obstacles that are now adversely affecting attendance at the Nassau Junkanoo parades.

Culture and our business community in the downtown space must come up with an amicable solution so that we can co-exist during what is probably the busiest business time of year for merchants coupled with our festive season and activities.

The bleachers cannot stay up after the parades adversely impacting businesses downtown. We must find a solution.

We know better and we must and can do better.

Junkanoo in our Family Islands have once again flavored my heart favorably as a Junkanooer.

Congratulations once again Exuma Junkanoo Groups and special congratulations to all participants and spectators who made it a wonderful peaceful successful Junkanoo experience.

ANTHONY U BOSTWICK

Nassau,

January 7, 2025.