FLAHAMA Updates – May 2011

Kim Foster and Rachel Lightbourne in Nassau.

Coastal Angler Magazine-FLAHAMA in Nassau

Coastal Angler Magazine-FLAHAMA reached the shores of New Providence in December of 2010. After a year of working to ensure the magazine consistently reached key Family Islands, we knew that we were ready to hit the streets of the capital. This could not have been done without the assistance and guidance of Earlston McPhee, the general manager of Sustainable Tourism for the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, and his suggested on island distributor Kim Foster. Over the last several months Kim has been selecting distribution points and introducing the magazine to the business community. We are pleased to say that the magazine is being as well received in Nassau as the rest of the country.


 

Co-publisher Gary Guertin attends MOB meeting.

Coastal Angler Magazine-FLAHAMA’S co-publisher Gary Guertin attended a meeting of the Marina Operators of the Bahamas on April 5th in Nassau as a member of the public. It was great to see many member friends attending the meeting; the venue also provided a chance to make new friends. As a longtime member of the marine trades association in Florida, Gary was pleased to see marina operators collaborating to find solutions to today’s challenges of marina management and operations. Coastal Angler Magazine salutes the MOB members and encourages other Bahamas marinas to become members of the Association.


 

A Nassau find…Land Shark Divers Hotel

Having a need for overnight accommodations while in Nassau, Coastal Angler Magazine co-publisher Gary Guertin had the occasion to meet Mr. Timothy Dames, the owner of the Land Shark Divers Hotel on West Bay Street. If seeking affordable accommodations in Nassau, this is a location to put on your “must check out list.” Conveniently located, during its earlier history, the Land Shark catered exclusively to the diving community. Fast forward to 2011, the property has evolved into one well-suited to the budget-centric traveler. Special thanks to Tyrone, Ms. Johnson, Ms. Knowles and Ms. Morley who extended gracious hospitality during Gary’s stay.


Boaters returning to Stuart-Martin County from the Bahamas.

Martin County Florida County Commissioners Approve Fee-Based Customs Office

For many years the marine community has known that a U.S. Customs Office located in Stuart, Florida would be a significant asset and amenity for boaters returning from the Islands of the Bahamas. Through diligent work and lobbying, Martin County Commissioners made the decision to make the fee-based customs office a reality. If all conditions are met as scheduled, Customs and Border Protection Office could be operational by winter of 2013. The FLAHAMA connection has taken a major step forward with the approval of this new facility. Congratulations to those dedicated individuals and businesses for taking the initiative to accomplish this monumental initiative.

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