Green Turtle Cay

[Moderator242]

Please post any information here.

[Ninster]

Roger Race in GTC managed to call out. The power is out, internet down, but landlines still working. Winds are comming from the North, but not as bad as Frances at this stage. So far So good....

[gatorman]

Just heard Earl Russell, Amateur Radio Op, Black Sound, Green Turtle Cay. WX report at 0745L, estimated. Winds NW gusting to 85 mph. Barometer 28.76. National Hurricane Center radio op reported eye over Marsh Harbour at 0800L. Amateur radio op at Little Harbour reported storm surge of only a foot. I didn't get the rest of his report.

Steve

[gtcway]

I've heard reports on the vhf of flooding in New Plymouth from storm surge. I'm still using DSL so hopefully I will stay on to report more.

[gatorman]

Good Luck!!!!!

[gatorman]

Earl Russell reporting winds at 105 mph, surge worse than Floyd, water is at the second of third step to his house on Black Sound.....pressure is 28.46 and falling.....he is starting to lose his dock.......0902L

[Rob Koury]

Steve-

Thanks for the updates from Earl. Please continue.

[Keyscaptain]

Thanks for the updates..

assume internet may be out as reports have stopped.

how much surge in black sound if water is up to russels back steps and what side of the sound is he on? Is NW at 105 dropping off now that eye must be over or near GTC?

Get ready from the other side...

good luck from adam and lisa on coquette.

martha, scott, bert, and joe from sids....we are thinking of u
Winky, Caroline, Steve, Kool, Brendal, and sundowner crowd...hang on.
AYS and the roberts family...safe passsage.

[Dan Good]

000
Wtnt31 Knhc 251139
Tcpat1
Bulletin
Hurricane Jeanne Intermediate Advisory Number 47a
Nws Tpc/national Hurricane Center Miami Fl
8 Am Edt Sat Sep 25 2004

...eye Of Jeanne Very Near Marsh Harbor On Abaco Island...

A Hurricane Warning Is In Effect Along The Florida East Coast From
Florida City Northward To St. Augustine...including Lake
Okeechobee. A Hurricane Warning Is Also In Effect For The
Northwestern Bahamas...including The Abacos...andros Island...berry
Islands...bimini...eleuthera...grand Bahama Island...and New
Providence. Preparations To Protect Life And Property Throughout
The Hurricane Warning Area Should Be Rushed To Completion.

[gatorman]

I don't know if this is accurate but I thought Earl said surge of two feet. He is 60 feet from the water's edge on Black Sound. He reported, a few minutes ago, that eye was beginning in GTC.

See my 1000L report from Elbow Cay too......

Regards,

Steve Rutledge, Memphis, TN

[gatorman]

1005L report from amateur radio op at Little Harbour.....Winds 80-100 mph estimated, 200 degrees. Pressure 28.XX and rising. Sorry about that. Air temp is 77 degrees.

[Rob Koury]

Just spoke with friend at Black Sound via sat phone. They are in the eye at 1045L. Water over docks. Wind blew "like snot". More trees down. So far, so good. Awaiting rear eye wall [which appears to be not as well organized].

[gatorman]

1125L report from Earl Russell via amateur radio. Winds SSE 30-35 mph, pressure 28.29, "lots of flooding," "four feet of water in parts of New Plymouth," "bar and grill destroyed." I assume he means Sundowner's. He also reported heavy rains but I don't know if he meant previously or currently.

[ToddReaves]

Received a call via satphone about 10:00am from friend at GTC. He reported no injuries, A LOT of water, and Sundowner's destroyed....

[seabiscuit]

unfortunately, after we cleaned up from francis we thought ivan was heading to tampa so we brought our satellite phone back with us so we have had no contact with green turtle other than phone calls to randy russell. it sounds like sundowners 'is destroyed'. if anyone has contact with the island, please let us know what they might need. we have a plane ready to fly us out around the storm tomorrow afternoon or early monday morning.

[gatorman]

Just heard Bob Ball report winds 160 degrees, 80-100 mph, pressure 29.27 rising, time stamp, 1245L

1245L, amateur radio op in Little Harbour reports winds 160 degrees, winds 80-100 mph, pressure 29.27 rising......

[RWillieK]

Hello, we are coming to the Roberts cottages this Christmas, and wondered how they fared this go around? These are the ones of Black Sound. I read a little of what was written, but not sure if any of them were talking about the Roberts? Thanks for any information!

[susanna]

Does anybody know what happened to the boats at Abaco Yacht? Did the yard get flooded? I read that Sundowner's was destroyed. Were the houses next to it destroyed, too? Is Plymouth Rock Cafe OK? Does anyone know what happened to The Lodge on Gillam Bay? I pray everyone is safe.

[Kure]

Any news of Molly McIntosh and her family, as well as the Bluff House family would be greatly appreciated. Everyone on the island is in our prayers....

[gatorman]

Folks, efforts are being made to get some news out of GTC.....Earl Russell, amateur radio op on Black Sound has not been heard from for several hours....There are many possibilities.....his antennas could be down, his power might be affected, or he might be trying to save his property, etc. I have asked a friend, who is talking to his wife on Elbow Cay via satphone, to attempt to reach GTC via VHF. This is a stretch with all that is going on but they know we all want to know. Evidently, rain and clouds is making satcomms unreliable. When I hear something I will post it here immediately.

My brother's family is on the island and he is trying to pull a rabbit out of a hat too. He is, unfortunately, sitting on his hands in Orlando.

I would suggest keeping the board clear for important traffic that we might be hearing when comms are re-established.

Regards,

Gatorman

[simondplumb]

Hi if anyone gets comms with Green Turtle Mr John Robertshaws family in the U.K would appreciate information as to how he and his property are. Pat, Nicol and Simon are thinking about you and good luck.

[Ninster]

Please try "sublime" on VHF 16, on GTC. Roger Race might be able to hear you, as he has an extended antenna. We would appreciate any feedback if you are able to reach Roger. This is from his family who are from GTC but visiting in London.
Thanx
Lyn, Nina and Mikey

[marilee davis]

We are trying to get information on the Lowe family of Green Turtle. Specifically Floyd and Zedeth, Nigel and Anne, Troy and Nikki, etc. Does anyone know if they are safe from the hurricane, Jeanne? If you can get a message to them, please let them know that Marilee, Barbara and Ma Yates are worried about them and would like to know if they are okay. We can be reached at 865-774-5080 or at marileedav@aol.com.
Thank you for any assistance.

Marilee Davis

[judIII]

hoping to hear how the Sawyers are? Prayers are for everyone in GTC.

[Terry W]

Spoke with Eric Sawyer who was in contact with his mom and dad on GTC via sat. phone (Edison and Joan, Reef Rentals). Lots of surge and docks gone, but no deaths or injuries to report. Surge definitely higher than Floyd as earlier posts indicted.

I will likely be heading to GTC mid-week. I believe Kim and Rod will be going over on Thursday. Please pm me if I can do anything for you.

I'll report any updates as I hear them.

[Metelus]

It's been awhile for any reports... Any updates on the island? Any injuries reported?

[Vicks]

To all the friends in GTC my love and thoughts are with you all as you are all hit again by the forces of nature.....Vicks - Cape Town South Africa

[Crows House]

Does anyone have any news of Lenny & Mary Lowe and family, Scott & Susan Roberts, Don & Sandra Stewart, John & Debbie Rasmussen, Ricky & Leigh Sawyer and Chris & Sally Dale. I would be very grateful. Just want to know if everyone is safe and well.

Is there a lot of damage from the hurricane? How is New Plymouth, as I have seen some reports of flooding?

Thanks in advance,

Steve & Chrissy Cronan (UK)

[roger phillips]

We heard from our Son David at midnight (UK time) last night, that's about 7.00pm GTC time. His initail statement was, "Worse than the last one" and by that I gather the difference was the storm surge. David said the sea level in New Plymouth was about 3 inches below the top of the cemetry wall, about where I saw it in Besty on September 5th. 1965. The Sundowners has re-located to Marsh Harbour, as has Jimmy McIntosh's walk in cooler, and one of the workshops at Bluff House. At least Marsh Harbour will have somewhere to eat, somewhere to keep cool and some tools to work with!

More shingle damage at Bluff House, Villa 8 lost some shingles, split levels lost some windows, the new Yachtsman's Cottages, and also the Jolly Roger emerged unscathed onec again, but the dock "Looks like a camel", which I gather means some of the sections have lifted, however, the white sound water did not rise to a level that endangered the Jolly Roger deck.

David could see the roof of our house, (one side only), and that was intact but he cannot get through to it yet to see if we have any roof on the other side.

That's about all I know for the moment but if, or when, he calls again, I will post.
Best of luck everyone, what fun we can all have re-building!
Roger Phillips, (in the UK)

[gatorman]

I had brief comms this morning with an amateur radio op in FLL who had talked to Earl Russell just prior to me being on the frequency. He could only tell me that it was very bad on GTC. No injuries which is the best news. I am working very hard trying to contact Earl again for detailed information. You will get it the second I get it.

My brother, Tom, is looking to hook up with ANYONE who is headed down there. He wants to get back to his family. Call him at 407-898-4976.

[Gemini Moon]

Has anyone heard from Bill and Leslie on Manjack Cay? Do you know if they are ok?

Thank you....

[Daze Off]

Hi
This is Mike off 'Daze Off'.
I am having considerable difficulty in finding ANY news of friends in GTC and MH.
Abaco doesn't seem to exist in any weather reports of ALL the recent 'hurries' from a UK point of view...
If and when ANYONE contacts Bill/Leslie, I would be pleased if you could pass on my e-mail address :- moredazeoff@yahoo.co.uk
I would ALSO love to hear from any friends who know me
Best regards and best wishes to all living in GTC

[seabiscuit]

just talked with willis. best news is still no injuries. the main thing that people need right now is water. the flooding contaminated cisterns in town. we're flying over as soon as this storm gets out of tampa and will be taking supplies, hopefully in the morning. the small building across the street from the Wrecking Tree (used to be a video store years ago) "is gone". it seems that the damage to Sundowner's is not as bad as we've heard. i've heard that the dock is gone, but willis said that the center wall, seaside, blew in and brian expects to reopen.

[Ninster]

We have just heard from Roger Race and Willis Levarity via sat phone.
There have been no injuries, and everybody is fine.
As we have all heard, town was flooded. Many of the houses have water damage. We can confirm that "Porky's Video" (the building between wrecking tree and Bert's Bar) is gone. Sundowners sustained alot of damage. The building is still there, but one of the walls blew in, so we can imagine what damage there is. McIntosh's Freezer was found accross the street by the town Generator. Most of the town docks are gone, or seriously damaged.
The treasure cay ferry dock is gone!
The Green Turtle Club sustained flood damage. We have not heard anything about the docks. The Chef's cottage and Michael and Amanda's Cottage lost their roofs (they were not in them during the hurricane). The Bar had about 1 foot of water.
We have heard that there is only one power pole down, and that Sinclair and scott are working hard to get the internet up and running asap.
Crows Nest was reported to be fine.
Shingle and roof damage in Bethel Estates.
We have no reports on boats, but we are working to get info.
Cruzan Lady was fine on the mooring in White Sound.
Brendals Dive Center is fiine.
We are working to get more information. We will keep you posted.

Nina, Lyn and Mikey

[gtc lover]

What can we do here stateside to help? Please let us know! We are praying for everybody and we are so thankful no one has been hurt!

[gatorman]

My brother, Tom, just heard from his wife, Ami, in New Plymouth. Here is the report.....they live in Miss Charlotte's Cottage. It is behind Laura's Kitchen. Ami said the water got within, literally, ONE INCH of the ground floor of the house. If you have seen the cottage, it is built up off the ground, quite high. The house is very old. They panicked but as luck would have it, the eye showed up and the water stopped climbing. When the storm return, it naturally sucked up the water that was on the land and they were saved. All the cats, chickens and "Chickie," the rooster, survived.

Vert Lowe, who has the model shop and is Tom's neighbor, got about three feet of water in his place. That shows you how lucky Tom was and close it got to them.

Earl Russell's granddaughter, Dawn, got about four feet of water in her house.

Tom's thoughts are the flooding was typical of Floyd but the effect was worse due to the wind direction of this particular storm. The worst flooding was in the area of the basketball court, Wrecking Tree, etc. which is very low anyway.

Houses on the north side of the island, i.e., Sundowner's area, got the brunt of the storm. Ami provided some conflicting information regarding this area so I am not going to repeat it. Hopefully, it isn't as bad out there as we think.

So, the Rutledge's are OK. Tom is still trying to get down there to start helping his neighbors. He will take any flight available. He is at our mother's house in Orlando. They are getting whacked right now by the storm. They have no power but their phone is working, 407-898-4976.

Tom is an airline pilot so if you need someone in your right seat, he is the man. He can't post on the board so I will try and relay anything I find.

Regards,

Gatorman

[Ninster]

Molly and Family are fine. Their house did well.

[dianeandchris]

Our family sends their thoughts and prayers to all our friends on Green Turtle. We would like to help if there is a community fund or whatever please let us know.

[Lancy Burn]

First: is everyone connectied with the shipyard and GTC OK? We have lots of friends there.

Secondly: We have/ had, a boat, 31' aft cabin Coronet, twin outboards named " Summer Wine" blocked up in the SW corner of the yard. Is there anyone on line who can tell us the conditions of that boat? It came thru frances fine and hopefully Jeanne as well.

Thanks in advance for any news on our friends on Manjack, Bill & bLeslie and GTC.

Best to you all.

Lancy & Emily

[E&CNewell]

Ed was in Abaco for the day today and saw Larry Lowe at the TC ferry dock. Larry says that they are all fine including Nigel and his family. They were putting back the dock planks at the TC ferry dock, it seems that they took them up before the storm to minimize damage so by now the dock should be back in good condition. Unfortunately Ed didn't have time to get across to the Cay and get back to the airport in time to get his flight back out so I have no further information that I can share regarding GTC conditions.

[normandys]

We have heard many reports that GTC was hit very hard. We are praying for all of you.
If anyone has information on the AYS boat yard and Everett and his family.....

[Ninster]

I will try and get an info relay from my husband when he calls in today, specifically on AYS. He did tell me that Scott and Susan were fine.
Lyn Race

[TL]

just spoke with don M. via sat phone,worthman house badly damaged as well as old curtis house on coco bay,most houses seem to have fared well,cisterns in town contaminated and being pumped,TCB operating for charter and private ,major clean up ahead of them.

[George]

just spoke with don M. via sat phone,worthman house badly damaged as well as old curtis house on coco bay,most houses seem to have fared well,cisterns in town contaminated and being pumped,TCB operating for charter and private ,major clean up ahead of them.
Is that reference to the new house on White Sound or the one on the hill overlooking Coco Bay?

[Craig Q]

Please post any information here.
Craig And DeeVon on Magic Dragon made it to Key West safely. Planning to charter a plane to TC soon, are there any items we can bring. Any news about condition of the Captain Roberts House appriciated. God Bless All

[Ninster]

We have heard that the cisterns in town are contaminated. If anyone has space for clorox, and/or water purification tablets, or by any chance a spare water maker that we could rig up, it would be helpful.
We are working on getting more information from GTC. Cloud cover looks really bad, so we cannot get hold of anyone on the sat. phones.

[Island Breeze]

Is that reference to the new house on White Sound or the one on the hill overlooking Coco Bay?
I believe it's the house over looking Coco Bay.

[Diana]

Hi this is Al Werthmann's daughter, any updates on his home in Coco Bay would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[ToddReaves]

We are leaving in the morning for GTC on a private plane from Colmbus, GA to TC. I have extra room and will bring clorox(any special kind?). I'm not sure where to buy water purification tablets or a water maker. Give me some instruction and I'll do my best to bring it.

Anything else needed? My email address is treaves@omegafi.com.

[MARIA B]

Can Anyone Give Me Any Information About April, Kevin & Family? I Am Aprils Cousin (in Massachusetts) And I'm Very Worried. Prayed All Thru The Hurricane For All Of You. Thank God No Loss Of Life Like Haiti. We Are Blessed. God Bless U All.

[Craig Q]

Please post any information here.
I just talked with the president of Calypso Air who has rented a DC3 to fly relief items to MH and TC on Thursday. 954 359 5551 Frank Berry. He is willing to take on cargo ASAP. I am trying to get a 24GPH watermaker to him but have to raise $4000 to purchase one (Unable to lease or rent one).
C Quirolo

[bahamaerick]

Last report from GTC was yesterday and most of the reports on the board seem to be pretty accurate. Let me know if anyone have a charter going to TC anytime soon. I am interested in flying over. Still waiting to find out more on relief supplies. Expecting a call today via satellite phone. Will post any updates.

Erick Sawyer
Reef Rentals
bahamaerick@aol.com

[marsha]

i am leslie's sister and would appreciate any info on leslie and bill on manjack. my email is hoppers @innova.net

[Abacobrad]

Any more contact with Earl Russell and his HAM radio? His generator must be down or Earl would be in communication.

[bahamaerick]

Update as of 8:00 pm, Monday 9/27/04

Just got off the phone with my parents...

Parts of town starting to see power restored

Bottled water arrived on the island

TCB allowing flights in

Not too sure about cistern contamination as mentioned, hoping not as bad as it sounds



Thats all I know, will get more updates in the morning.


Erick Sawyer

Reef Rentals

[Metelus]

Has anyone heard news of Donny Sawyer and OtherShore Club? Also, anymore news or damage report regarding Sid Curtis' old house on Coco Bay? Any news would be greatly appreciated. My heart goes out to all of Abaco...I will keep everyone in my prayers.

[handsomejack]

Godspeed to my friends on Green Turtle.

[Steve and Kathy H]

Roger Phillips reported that David, Robin and family were ok, and I read where Molly and family are ok also, but has anyone heard about the rest of the Bluff House staff? Is there any word on Violet and Smitty or Blue Bee? Thanks.

[floridacargocat]

Re DC-3 relief flight organised by Calypso Air. After Floyd, I as was deeply involved in some relief cargo flights and commercial flights out of Lantana, using a DC-3 out of Jacksonville and later out of Opa Locka. A few aspects to consider:
1. A cargo DC-3 holds a maximum of 7500 lbs cargo. That can be lot or little, subject to the density of the relief goods. For illustration purposes, you take 1 case/tray of water (very high density), weighs about 45 plbs, you can fill her up with 166 cases/trays (you will barely see this load). Tar paper (very high density) weighs about 70-80 lbs a roll (you will be able to put in about 100 rolls and you will not see this load). Furniture in general occupies space (low density), and you will be surprised how quickly the DC-3 fills up. Mattresses weigh 70 - 120 lbs - subject to size, and you can bend them (good as filler stuff). The lowest density that I have encountered are the insulation rolls, they weigh nearly nothing, but take space. Canned goods have a high density (cases weigh about 25 - 45 lbs). Tissue paper is low in density, boxes are bulky, they weigh about 25 lbs.
2. If the load of the DC-3 goes to different consignees (recipients), it is imperatiove, that on each and every piece, a label is attached indicating the consignee. It is also helpful, that each box for each consignee is numbered, so a final check can be done that nothing has been missed or left behind (or disappeared somewhere else). This will avoid a lot of unnecessary phone calls at a later stage.
3. Manifest. It is very important, that a proper piece count for each consignee is made and entered into the manifest. Basically a countercheck for all sides involved, what has been loaded and dispatched and received.
4. Weight of the relief goods. It is more than important, that the individual weight of each box/case/tray/piece is indicated on the item, as this help in making the manifests as well as the Weight & Balance calculation.
5. Loading the DC-3. Palletization and forklift are the essential requirements. And it is going uphill.
6. Unloading. Here the real fun begins, especially when having more than one consignee. It is more than helpful, to have a sufficient number of medium-size trucks available when the DC-3 lands in TCB/MHH. Further, splitting the goods as per consignee should not be done at the point of landing, but the goods should be loaded as per consignee if possible. Sorting it out in TCB/MHH can take a long time, and you will need the assistance of bahamas Customs one way or the other. Just dumping all the goods on the tarmac will lead to an unholy mess. Organising the unloading part for a quick turnaround of the airplane is very important. Remember, there are no pallets out there nor forklifts to expedite the unloading. The only expediting factor will be the trucks, backing up the the door of the airplane. and then you need manpower to unload and carry the entire length of the airplane as well as the length of the truck. Albury Trucking played a great role during those cargo flights, and I assume that they still have the resources.
7. Barbara Farnan can give you more advice, as she was involved in these commercial exercises. Sharon Kossack (and many others) will remember the efforts of the relief flights, and what it took to do this job properly. You might look up this period in the archives of the old Abacoboard.
8. Generators. a normal 5500 Watt generator weighs about 110 - 125 lbs. They are considered Hazardous Material and require special handling and documentation (for US Customs and the operator of the aircraft).
9. Bleach/Chlorox is considered Hazardous Material and requires special packaging, handling, labeling and documentation.
10. US Customs declaration. During the relief flights for Floyd, each flight was declared to US Customs with a manifest and supporting documents. Bahamas Customs will be happy to receive the necessary lists, documents and whatever for determing if it falls under "relief goods - free of duty" or not. Relief goods for the community might be handled differently than commercial goods (all the rules and regulations of Bahamas Customs will be applied). The District Administrator and/or the Senior Bahamas Customs officers are in a position to be of assistance (at least that was the case after Floyd).
In case more info is required please feel free to contact me.

[Abacobrad]

My wife and brother in law are headed to GTC now and should be there mid afternoon. The group has a SAT phone so I should be able to make a few reports later today.

[turtlegirl13]

Any reports about "Our House" on Coco Bay would be greatly appreciated.

[TL]

Please post any information here.returned from gtc today ,powere restored in town 4:15 am this morning ,north beach took a hit but in remarkably good shape ,gtc club docks in good shape water in club and structural damage ,from the air coco bays cottages appear to have been doused but still there,bita bay house ok and still sitting right on the beach,boat yard had 2 sail boats slip their cradles all rest upright an look ok all coping and moving forward with continual clean up airport open with customs and immigration,ferries operating,abaco seafood has ice ,stores open

[Gemini Moon]

Please, does any one have word on Bill and Leslie on Manjack Cay? Could someone try to contact them via VHF radio, or take a skiff over to see if they are ok? Thank you for any updates.

Glenna

[Abacobrad]

Wife reported in from Bita Bay- Hoping for power to be restored tomorrow. The roof and porch still intact- and after Frances long pounding we were worried. Lot of erosion, shingles and sand in the yard, lost some trees, and had a front door breach... But as we keep saying it could have been a lot worse. (we are tiring of saying that) Hoping to report more when she calls back with my list--Brad

[Keys George]

have call in to frank berry/per craig q's e.asked what to bring and where to bring it. when i hear i'll post. have big suv w/room for supplies coming from keys. will deliver to dc-3.

[Cruzan Capt Phil]

Molly, David, Vern, Arnold, Violet, Michael, Marcus, Willis, EVERYBODY...

David Atkinson and I are coming over on Friday to help with whatever. We are bringing some things that we had on the list from last week when we were unable to come due to the storm. I have some room in my plane for more stuff. Would like to help if We could.

If anybody has any special needs on the island, stuff that will fit on my plane, let me know.

See you on Friday. Stay safe.

PHIL SMITH

[Keys George]

just talked to frank berry. loading thursday night at FLL. 1100 lee wagner blvd. (just rt of control tower. he says don't worry about weight. dry food. water. felt. tarps. if anyone has goods; i'm leaving the keys (tevernier) around noon thursday with truck & trailer. stopping at home depot in florida city.(they probably have more stuff on hand than FLL.) if anyone hears from Green Turtle, let me know what they need. i can't get through on the phone or e. thanks.g

[floridacargocat]

I find it more than commendable, that Frank Berry has donated the flight of a DC-3 for flying relief goods out to the Abacos. The remark "don't worry about weight" does worry me, unless the operator has taken the necessary precautions, that the aircraft weight & balance can be properly established. This aircraft is being loaded under the nose of the FAA, and in all my years in the air cargo industry, I knew exactly which weight went into each section of the airplane (small or large). As I have written earlier, a DC-3 holds up to 7500 lbs, and if a lot of "heavy stuff" is brought with all the good intentions of the donors, this maximum weight could be exceeded very easily. The DC-3 has proven numerous times, that it can haul more, but under Part 135, 7500 lbs is the limit. A DC-3 Turbine (yes, this exists) can technically haul even more. See also my previous remarks.

[TonyLockhart]

Here are a few pics of the Lockhart House and Ocean Beach.

[TonyLockhart]

More Pictures

[TonyLockhart]

More Pics

[TonyLockhart]

Some More Pics

[Lancy Burn]

i am leslie's sister and would appreciate any info on leslie and bill on manjack. my email is hoppers @innova.net
Go to search and type in bill & leslie and a post comes up that they, the house and boats are fine. phones are still out.

best, lancy and Emily Burn

[Keys George]

just talked to frank berry at calypso air. he is going to wait until tuesday to fly out with supplies. more time needed to gather supplies. he said stops in marsh harbor and treasure cay. clothing, dry goods, anything welcomed.

[seabiscuit]

just returned from gtc. everyone's busy getting the island back in shape. a lot of people have water damage from the surge, cisterns are being pumped out. we took bottled water with us and our cistern was fine, but there weren't a lot of takers for water. the bread we took was greatly appreciated. sid's grocery was fine and had plenty of food. wrecking tree and the mcintosh had a lot of water damage but they are busy trying to reopen. brian was already rebuilding at sundowner's and thinks he might be selling beer by this weekend. the kitchen still looked ok so that may be open soon, too. i didn't get a chance to go by, but i understand that the art gallery had a lot of damage. quite a bit of damage to docks. the water taxis are on their regular schedule, but are not doing charters due to a shortage of fuel. power is back on down to bethel estates and some phones are working for local calls. it may be a while for long distance. dsl is up, just got an email this morning. we flew back with willis and don mcintosh and they should be at my house saturday and sunday, so if you have any specific questions please send me an email at lakedogz@aol.com and reference gtc so i'll know who it is.

[Ninster]

Thank You Tony Lockhart for posting the pictures.

I have just spoken to my mum on the Satellite Phone. She said that there were two boats; "Confido" (I think that is how you spell it) and Captain Dexter, that blew down in Jeanne. Sorry to hear abou that. She said the rest seemed to be fine. She also said that Alton Lowes looked fine from the outside. She wasnt too sure about the inside. Last of all.... Power is on at the Green Turtle Club and Bluff Harbour. I am not sure if it is on at Bluff House.
If anyone needs any more reports from GTC, please e-mail me (Nina) at ninster03@hotmail.com . I will be happy to try to find out info about properties, boats, etc.
Take Care!!!

[abacopotcake]

DSL is working tonight! Still cant call overseas...not even Nassau...Everyone on GTC survived Jeanne. All weary, but trying to get things picked up and sorted out. Frances took all the trees, so most of the debris washed up with the tidal surge! I have ONE grapefruit left on a totally bare tree! Think I could get a good price on ebay???? Thank you everyone for all the good thoughts and prayers!

[wanda]

Spoke to Austin Lowe tonight in Green Turtle so they are able to recieve our calls now.They need bread, batteries and fruit (canned should be ok).It was good to hear his voice and know they are all ok.

[roger phillips]

Good News from Bluff House
We have spoken to Tracy , (Bluff House Front Desk), this evening, (UK time), and the 'phones are up again, as is the electricity. I know we all moan from time to time about our Bah. Utility Companies but when disasters strike, there is no better. My hat is off to all those guys and gals, (don't forget the girls!), at BEC and BaTelCo. Also, I understand that the Jolly Roger bar and restaurant will be open by Monday. Accomodations, (somewhat limited), are also available to those who want to visist the Cay to inspect etc.

More news as I get it,
Roger Phillips (in the UK)

[Terry W]

I'm headed over to GTC tomorrow (Saturday) through Thursday.

The new GT Club owners have post-storm updates at:
http://www.greenturtleclub.com/fall04.html (http://www.greenturtleclub.com/fall04.html). Note - the picture of the downed tree was thanks to Frances and is right in front of our house. It hit our neighbor's across the street who chose to spend their six-week GTC vacation in the school shelter during both Frances and Jeannies. The Maggiones are definitely not sissies!

Power is up due to the wonderful town generator and dedicated workers. Phones appear to be coming online.

The surge caused us to lose our freshwater pump and hotwater heater and we sustained more sideways rain in through soffits and into living room. Nothing to complain about compared to what others have had to deal with in FLA, Bahamas, Haiti, Grand Caymen, etc. per Charley, Frances, Ivan, Jeanne!

Thanks to Erick of Reef Rentals and many others for posting updates on the board and staying in touch peronally with those of us who care so much about the well-being of the island and its friendly people!

Terry Stetson Wilson

[Mike Stetson]

God speed lil sis.


I'm headed over to GTC tomorrow (Saturday) through Thursday.

The new GT Club owners have post-storm updates at:
http://www.greenturtleclub.com/fall04.html (http://www.greenturtleclub.com/fall04.html). Note - the picture of the downed tree was thanks to Frances and is right in front of our house. It hit our neighbor's across the street who chose to spend their six-week GTC vacation in the school shelter during both Frances and Jeannies. The Maggiones are definitely not sissies!

Power is up due to the wonderful town generator and dedicated workers. Phones appear to be coming online.

The surge caused us to lose our freshwater pump and hotwater heater and we sustained more sideways rain in through soffits and into living room. Nothing to complain about compared to what others have had to deal with in FLA, Bahamas, Haiti, Grand Caymen, etc. per Charley, Frances, Ivan, Jeanne!

Thanks to Erick of Reef Rentals and many others for posting updates on the board and staying in touch peronally with those of us who care so much about the well-being of the island and its friendly people!

Terry Stetson Wilson

[ratherBsailing]

Is Laura's Kitchen okay and able to function?

[seabiscuit]

just called from tampa to my neighbor at longbay house!

[gatorman]

Talked to my brother, Tom, last night. I dialed in and got a great connection. He said it was the first phone call they have received. He said his house did VERY well but many have been devestated. Houses that had roof damage had subsequent drywall failures and furniture, etc. was ruined. He says the dump is overflowing.

Tom said his wife wasn't kidding when she said the water came within an inch of getting in their house. He said the water was three feet deep in his back yard. His washing machine was submerged and he got it running again but he doesn't know for how long.

He also said all the docks were torn up. He said he repaired the town dock (two cannons) next to the ferry dock himself. The govt bought the lumber and he provided the free labor. He said some docks are gone, etc.

Interestingly, the generator in TC that has been so dependable is down. They are now on BEC power which comes and goes. Some may know that GTC used to generate its own power but made the switch to BEC several years ago. They kept the generator. Great idea!

He was without dial-up Internet before the storms so he has no idea what the status of that is.

FYI, Tom lives behind Laura's Kitchen.

[ucfbahamian]

I just wanted to say that I really appreciated all the info people have been puposting on here. BUT a big BUT at the same time I think we need to be careful what we put on here. I appreciated the updates saying that everyone was okay but didn't appreciate the constant reminder of my parents business being "COMPLETELY DESTROYED". In the last hurricane we lost everything in our house to a fire and now a hurricane comes and all people can say is that our business was destroyed. I understand that you are just trying to get as much information on the board as possible. But you also have to take into consideration WHO is going to be reading this information and if this is the way it should be found out. I didn't see anyone coming on here specifically asking if that business had been ok during the storm. I completely panicked considering I didnt have a house and now my parents had nowhere to work so I flew out as fast as I could only to find out IT REALLY WASNT THAT BAD...we still had a roof ! Think before you POST.

[Terry W]

Yes, UCFbahamian, in the haste to get info out early, I'm certain there were lots of errors. I believe someone has posted that Sundowners was not destroyed, was serving beer, and hopefully would be serving food again soon. Hope so!

We do need to be careful. From what I would guess - some structures took it hard in Jeanne and some did not. For example, I am under the impression that the docks in White Sound are Ok and yet Steve Rutledge mentioned the destroyed docks.

Guess I'll see for myself tomorrow.

Take care and Go Knights!

[gatorman]

Hey, I can only report what I hear. There are bound to be discrepancies in information, etc. At first, everyone was complaining that there was no news coming out of the area. Then when it started coming out, they didn't want to hear it. There is no way to verify what someone who is there tells you. Maybe they are hearing it from someone else whose interpretation is different from yours. I don't think anyone is trying to mislead anyone though.

[island daze]

Hey UCF

Glad to hear and see from friends pictures that sundowners was not destroyed.Brian and Caroline and Eric and yourself do not need anymore loses you have had enough for a lifetime in the last month.I agree that information needs to get out as i am a second homeowner and was worried sick as to how everyone was doing and as to how bad the damage was, but i think that sometimes the info is so second or third hand that it has to be taken with a grain of salt so to speak, unfortunately for you it was the only news that you had on the business and you family.Just a tthought but the hope town fire dept did a great job of getting reports out during and after the storm on the state of hopetown and its residents and then later a very lenghty damage report on houses.I think if every second homeowner could donate $100 a year to the fire dept in GTC it could buy a sat phone and the equipment and a salary to get this information out, It could be a great way to alleviate the problem of passing this down from person to person and getting distorted by the rumor mill.It would also provide people like myself with the answer to the question of do i go down to check on my house with no idea of the condition and possibly taking away valuable resources from the people on the island that need it or if there is anything i can do or send to help out.Hopefully money would also be left over to donate to the GTC fire dept depending on how much this was used, kinda like an insurance policy.Thanks to all though that passed on what you heard from your contacts during the storms but it seems like this should be a wake up call for their to be some way of getting some reliable info out as soon as possible and as accuratly as possible.Thats all just a thought if i can help in anyway just email me.

[seabiscuit]

i just got off the phone with brian and sundowner's is open. of course, he still has a lot to do. they need to replace their pool table so if anyone hears of a great deal, let me know and i will try to get it to them. in reply to island daze (hi, and i hope i'll see you tomorrow......) i would be happy make a donation for a satellite phone. also, i think we need to do something special for the BEC guys. i heard that someone saw them out working at 4:30 in the morning. they did an excellent job restoring power so quickly!

[Terry W]

You can count me in for a donation for a sat. phone. Let's do what we can to get this going. I'm going to Sundowners tomorrow eve. (Sunday).

[abacopotcake]

I think when you are riding out the storm emotions are also running high. It is overwhelming to sit totally helpless as the winds roar and the rain pounds the place you hope is safe! I could not even eat..Could not swallow food! I could not sit down..my legs hurt sooo bad. My teeth even hurt from the tension...THEN its over and we go outside..and its even more overwhelming...everywhere you look there is damage. Trees down, power lines like spiderwebs all over town, debris everywhere..but when you see parts of a building missing then it seems even worse. The first reaction is OMG! Disaster! But after the initial shock you look closely and realize that it can be repaired or repalced! I overheard a phone conversation and the person was saying that town was a disaster. I thought, what an exaggeration! Most of the stores and businesses were not damaged and noone is homeless! A few cisterns had to be emptied, because dirty, salt water went in, but we were more desperate for water in June because nobody had any to spare! But I'm not criticizing the person for saying it..It truly is overwhelming....And for friends and family who are waiting for news, it must be just as nerve wracking!! Especially to hear words like DESTROYED, DEVESTATED, DISASTER! We can only hope that we are DONE with hurricanes this year and for many to come!!

[gatorman]

I would highly recommend buying a satphone. Get a very expensive one. It will virtually guarantee you that there will be no hurricanes until the phone is obsolete. Kind of like buying a snow blower after the last big storm. Insurance against it. A cheap price to pay. :)))))

[Keys George]

the calypso air dc-3 is leaving tuesday for marsh harbor and treasure and they have lots of clothing and some foodstuff for the poor at marsh harbor. there is room for supplies to new plymouth if residents need tarps etc. but i haven't heard a word from anyone on gtc. if there are specific needs, let me know and we'll try to round up things. thanks,g.

[seabiscuit]

i've been in contact with several people and told them about the DC3 going over but have not received any requests. i know a couple of people are going over to west palm to send a lot of supplies back on the freighter. thank you for your generous offer.

[MaggieD]

I just returned fron GTC. Power is back on-most of the time. Some phones are working and sat phones are connecting. and Channel 16 is buzzing. The island was not as bad as i expected after hearing minimal reports, but there was damage and a lot of work to be done. There was just plain a lot of water everywhere. rain coming through windows, roofs, any joints aor attachments, and then the tidal surge from the North. A great deal of clean up has already taken place and every one has been working hard.
In general, the reports on the board have quite accurate.
In White sound area a couple of docks were totalled, and about 2/3 need work. GTC club docks looked good. In the harbour, only Cruzan lady stayed on her mooring. Abaco Tug is expected to come in on Tuesday to lift the beached and sunken boats out.
On Coco Bay the tide came up to an inch from Louie's door and to the second step at Arnold & Verns, so we got lucky on that one. The dock took a pounding, but nothing compared to Doc Faber's house where the dock is up in the yard with the boat still tied on to it.
Last night Sundowners up and running,like a fighter with a few teeth knocked out, a little bruised, but not down for the count.

[roger phillips]

I just returned fron GTC. Power is back on-most of the time. Some phones are working and sat phones are connecting. and Channel 16 is buzzing. The island was not as bad as i expected after hearing minimal reports, but there was damage and a lot of work to be done. There was just plain a lot of water everywhere. rain coming through windows, roofs, any joints aor attachments, and then the tidal surge from the North. A great deal of clean up has already taken place and every one has been working hard.
In general, the reports on the board have quite accurate.
In White sound area a couple of docks were totalled, and about 2/3 need work. GTC club docks looked good. In the harbour, only Cruzan lady stayed on her mooring. Abaco Tug is expected to come in on Tuesday to lift the beached and sunken boats out.
On Coco Bay the tide came up to an inch from Louie's door and to the second step at Arnold & Verns, so we got lucky on that one. The dock took a pounding, but nothing compared to Doc Faber's house where the dock is up in the yard with the boat still tied on to it.
Last night Sundowners up and running,like a fighter with a few teeth knocked out, a little bruised, but not down for the count.
Congratulations to the Sundowner Crew. Just shows you what a positive attitude can achieve. Well done all of you and best wishes for the future which surely must be better! I look forward, (as Verity does also!), to THE NEW SUNDOWNSERS - SASSIER THAN EVER!
Again, congratulations on re-opening so quickly, despire being "Destroyed, Gone, Demolished, etc.
Roger Phillips

[dianeandchris]

If the Satphone idea takes flight, could you post where to send contributions?

[TurtleDreams]

On Coco Bay the tide came up to an inch from Louie's door and to the second step at Arnold & Verns, so we got lucky on that one. The dock took a pounding, but nothing compared to Doc Faber's house where the dock is up in the yard with the boat still tied on to it.


Maggie
Good to hear both you and Louie & the house fared reasonably well. We are neighbors of sorts. So far we have only a cistern (just above Kola's) We've met your dad and mom and Louie when we stayed at GT Club a couple of years back. How are they doing through all this? Also we were wondering if Coco Plum took any water from Jeanne? My best to you all.
Susan

[Cruzan Capt Phil]

Dave Atkinson and I flew over this past Friday to check on everyone and the Cruzan Lady. I flew a couple of laps around GTC and Dave shot some pretty good aerial photos of the island. I'll try to get him to post these to share with everybody.

I begin by saying that even after going through 2 hurricanes, the people of GTC are in remarkably good spirits. The place is really buzzing with everyone cleaning up and rebuilding. There was a lot of damage and there will be plenty to do for some time to come.

Thanks also to the Bluff House and staff for hosting a Cocktail party at the Jolly Roger bar early Saturday for everyone. I think that everyone appreciated a place to go after a long week of exhausting clean up work.

I was able to witness Brian and Caroline working non-stop (as they always do) getting Sundowners ready to Go. Later Saturday night we gathered up at Sundowners for the Grand Reopening. It is inspirational to witness the positive attitudes of Brian and Caroline. Frankly, after all they have been through, I don't know how they do it.

In case you haven't heard, Brian and Caroline lost their home first by flooding and then by fire after the first hurricane. Brian also told me that his boat sank. Then add the damage to his business and one wonders how they keep going with the positive attitudes that they have.

So Dave and I are opening a trust account at my law firm to accept donations for Brian and Caroline to help rebuild Sundowners and their home. We would appreciate any and all donations that you can come up with. Sundowners is a place where all of us go for a little fun. Let's see if we can all help them restore their livelihood and our fun little place to escape to. Please send donations to:

Phillip S. Smith
McLin & Burnsed, P.A.
1000 W. Main St.
Leesburg, FL 34748.

Make Checks payable to McLin & Burnsed, P.A. Trust Account. We will be taking donations for the next 30 days. And we will be sure to let them know that each of you were thinking of them. If you have any questions about the above, please feel free to call me at 352-787-1241.

Thanks to all who care about GTC and its people. I think that GTC is going to be just fine with everyone's help.

Phil Smith

[seabiscuit]

thanks so much, capt. phil, for your generous efforts to help out brian and caroline! i've been raising money with my friends, also, and should be able to get some cash to them late this week. they've really had it rough, but they are two of the strongest people i know and they NEVER complain.

[island daze]

The idea of the sat phone and a way to get info out to all of the people away from GTC whether they are friends family or homeowners was just an idea i had from looking at the posts from the hopetown fire dept.I would like to pursue this and any one who would like to participate can email me at go2abaco@hotmail.com.This may be something that works or doesnt but for now lets see if we can get some support for the idea.In the present many families have been hit hard by the hurricanes and i think for the near future we should support the funds for the victims of the hurricanes and if you go to GTC and Sundowners maybe give these guys some help they took a big hit.What i am proposing with the sat phone link is something that can be worked out this winter after the recovery process has had a chance to go froward and everything is back to normal as possilble.Gatorman i don't know where in florida you live but i hope you are going to be the one to donate the very expensive sat phone so we don't have any more hurricanes, Up here on the outer banks it doesn't seem to work we just try to take care of everyone we can as best we can.

Thanks
Island Daze

[roger phillips]

Regarding Sat. Phones for emergencies:

There seems to be quite an interest expressed by a number of people to my original suggestion that we start a collection to obtain one or two of these 'phones for use by the GTC community. What I would like to suggest is that everyone who has expressed an interest, please email me with a contact email address so that I can begin to build a mailing list. What I envisage happening is that interest will wane once everyone knows how their particular situation turned out and people will be difficult to contact.

I also envisage that we should have a Community meeting, perhaps headed by our Chief Councillor, to discuss just what items were found to be deficient for the Community at large when such storms arrive. Once we have that list I am sure we can muster enough contributions to make klife a lot more pleasant for both the Community and those offshore second home owners and family friends, hence the need for a mailing list while the problems are still fresh in our minds. I also now understand that Sat. phones are no longer the expensive items they once were and are readily affordable.

If anyone wishes to register their interest in becoming part of this idea, please let me have your email address to rp@oii.net. At the moment no web is available on GTC but since I will be here in the UK until October 23rd., I can build this mailing list while on line here and carry it back with me. As son as I return, I will get together with David Bethel and then contact each of you with the suggestions.

I look forward to many emails!
Roger Phillips, (Bluff House Beach Hotel - I hear we now have a much improved Bluff House beach - "It is huge" There is always a silver lining!)

[johnsails]

Having a "fireman's" web site for every Island is a great idea, I can build you a "Free" web site - with a tool (web page) to easy post and edit "important" information - via SAT phone, or Radio or email - and add a island mailing list form to collect email addresses for emergencies.
let me know what you think. - see Rogers post
john

[Kimberly]

As you get your targeted fundraising campaign off the grounf, I just wanted to let you know that Harbour Island/Eleuthera DID plan ahead, and all local government councils were outfitted with an Iridium or Globalstar satellite phone. We thought we were set in terms of post-storm communication capabilities.

That being said, NONE of the local government or privately-owned Iridium or Globalstar satphones worked once the eye of first Frances and then Jeanne came through. The ONLY communication that did work effectively come rain or cloud cover or shine was homeowner Ben Knox's Direcway two-way satellite system, courtesy of Satellite Bahamas [and a product of DirectTV].

The Briland Modem called several sales teams for the Globalstar phone consortium and reported the blackout in available satellite service, and were told that the system had been 'overloaded' for the duration of the two storms. Hmmmm ... the Iridium phones are good enough for use by the Pentagon, but the Caribbean region of 40 million inhabitants tops is enough to overload the satellite uplink system in place? I discontinued our Iridium service.

I'm having the Direcway installed at the house --
Kimberly
Briland.com

[flyingdogs]

After having a sat phone on Guana for the the last week, connection and service was very bad for the price and the weather was clear. A full conversation of 2-3 minutes took a couple of trys. Most with Directway and dial pad had greater reliability and a more reasonably priced option. Glad the sat phone was just a rental, It's going back today.

[gatorman]

Kimberly is right. Bandwidth is a continual problem with most of the satellite services. Certain users get priority during high traffic times. You can figure this out yourself. I know that Bob Ball's Directway system in Little Harbour seemed to work fine. He took the dish down during the storm as it would obviously be destroyed (oooooops, dirty word) I mean it could have suffered some hurricane related consequences. However, once the storm passed he was right back on the air. I think someone on Guana was using one too.

[Kimberly]

Thanks, Gatorman. FWIW, Ben Knox kept his Direcway dish install intact on the side of the house throughout both storms, although our top winds were experienced during Frances and never got over 120mph. That being said, Harbour Island and Eleuthera were hammered with those 120mph winds for close to twenty-five hours, and the Direcway satellite install stayed intact.

I don't mean to sound like a salesman, but we were really impressed. He got messages out via his laptop throughout the storm ** which laptop he recharged via his generator when necessary ** which messages we were able to immediately share with the Briland.com local, regional, expat, business, second homeowner e-mail list, which went far to assauge nerves.

[Lancy Burn]

After having a sat phone on Guana for the the last week, connection and service was very bad for the price and the weather was clear. A full conversation of 2-3 minutes took a couple of trys. Most with Directway and dial pad had greater reliability and a more reasonably priced option. Glad the sat phone was just a rental, It's going back today.

? What service were you using? what kind of phone were you using? for sure that is not what they need! Clarify.

[flyingdogs]

Not that experienced with them, rented from Globalcom Satellite, It was a Motorola 9505 which they said was an upgrade. www.globalcom-usa.com Rented it for after Francis, and got there and didn't need it because most phone services were up within a day or two. Still had it for Jeanne and had only 2 calls that lasted for more than 3 minutes that it didn't drop the call or we couldn't hear each other and just hung up. Cell service was up after about 4-5 days after Jeanne. In that critical time during and after the storm any communication is better than none, but the sat phones don't seem to be able to handle the load or the reliability that is needed.

[Lancy Burn]

Not that experienced with them, rented from Globalcom Satellite, It was a Motorola 9505 which they said was an upgrade. www.globalcom-usa.com Rented it for after Francis, and got there and didn't need it because most phone services were up within a day or two. Still had it for Jeanne and had only 2 calls that lasted for more than 3 minutes that it didn't drop the call or we couldn't hear each other and just hung up. Cell service was up after about 4-5 days after Jeanne. In that critical time during and after the storm any communication is better than none, but the sat phones don't seem to be able to handle the load or the reliability that is needed.

Hi Everybody,
We've heard complaints about the 9505 Motorola and when we were shopping around were encouraged to go with the 9500 Motorola. We've used is four years in the Bahamas and it always gets through. Some fading and echos occasionally but it does work. Maybe the satalites are getting old or something. We still own it and use it. Not sure whats out there now. Maybe we should look over the lot and come up with a better system. I'm not sure there is anything but Iridium. Stratos is our server. they are world wide. Costs US$ 31.66 a month and so much a minute..it's coming down but right now I can't tell you how much. I'll call them today and find out. I think it's a good idea. Maybe we can get together this fall and check it out. We'll be down after T/giving and stay til late March. Maybe have a satphone shoot out or something. Our prayers are with all our friends there, and wish all a speedy recovery.

[Abacobrad]

Sorry for not posting sooner. September has been a blur for the Abacos and so many others in Florida and elsewhere. Susan and I came back from both our trips after Frances and Jeanne flat out impressed and thankful by all the hardwork and great attitudes of everyone on GTC. I will refrain from recognizing people by name because the list would be too long and we would invariably forget someone. Exhausted as everyone may be, the spirit of the island is stronger than ever.

The attitude and enthusiasm at the Bluff House party and later at Sundowners was damn near magical. No whining from this bunch either- and we heard some amazing stories... It was nice to visit with everyone no matter what the occasion.

Bita Bay is back in shape thanks to a lot of caring people:
Here is a bit of what was accomplished: 8 wheelbarrows of sand from inside the house, complete washdown and clean up inside, 10 windows temporarily repaired, shingles replaced, garage doors replaced, screen tite re-done (twice in 3 weeks) and a several tons of sand moved back to the front- gotta thank Ken and Wade here! We did have 7 feet of sand in parts of the yard! We are thrilled that we can now take guests and be part of much needed tourism thanks to so many fine and caring people. The view from the porch has not changed- its even better with NO vegetation in front (for now). I will report later on a few of our neighbors on the beach- I took pictures and will post them as well. God Bless and I look forward to seeing everyone soon for Kaliks. Brad

[Myra]

Wow Brad lots of work and it looks beautiful.

[Abacobrad]

We heard from most of our GTC neighbors asking for updates. Unfortunately many had Jeanne wack them in Florida too. Most fared well on the GTC beach. Everyone had water in the house, sand blasting, and lots of erosion. We've all got plenty of work ahead, and just pray that this 20 year cycle stuff is just myth. Houses pictured: BelleMare, Villa Pasha, Bennett, Tranquility and Bita Bay

[JJ]

Abacobrad, thanks for the photos. We were your neighbors for a week this summer when we were at Tranquility (with the three blonde girls) and we have been concerned for everyone on GTC.

[Lancy Burn]

As you get your targeted fundraising campaign off the grounf, I just wanted to let you know that Harbour Island/Eleuthera DID plan ahead, and all local government councils were outfitted with an Iridium or Globalstar satellite phone. We thought we were set in terms of post-storm communication capabilities.

That being said, NONE of the local government or privately-owned Iridium or Globalstar satphones worked once the eye of first Frances and then Jeanne came through. The ONLY communication that did work effectively come rain or cloud cover or shine was homeowner Ben Knox's Direcway two-way satellite system, courtesy of Satellite Bahamas [and a product of DirectTV].

The Briland Modem called several sales teams for the Globalstar phone consortium and reported the blackout in available satellite service, and were told that the system had been 'overloaded' for the duration of the two storms. Hmmmm ... the Iridium phones are good enough for use by the Pentagon, but the Caribbean region of 40 million inhabitants tops is enough to overload the satellite uplink system in place? I discontinued our Iridium service.

I'm having the Direcway installed at the house --
Kimberly
Briland.com

Hi K,
Well, with that said why waste money, time and effort on a useless system? Like cell phones; they work well until disaster and then they die... So I'm going to hold my donations until further input. If it don't work it don't ride. (That is very good input by the way, and valuable info. Thank you!)

Question. Is there such a thing as emergency single side band for legit emergency people. Who without all the licenses and such could still put out a call for help should there be a lot of injuries and more medical back up needed? Maybe a SSB transceiver and a gen. be a better investment? Satphones like cell phones would work fine when things get back up and running, houses and boats are not necessariy or usually life and death situations.

Best to all, L

PS-- I sorta changed horses in mid stream there because I have never heard of direcway and haven't a clue how it operates. But SSB either marine or ham works just fine. It,(Direcway) sounds like it may be worth looking into. L

[Abakimmy]

Taken Sept 30 -Oct 5 after Jeanne.

http://outerbanksvacationhomes.photosite.com/AbacoJeanne/

[Terry W]

Great pictures, Kimmy. Just returned from extended stay in GTC. I took lots of pictures, but dropped my camara, so we'll see.

As usual, the residents have pitched in and are getting things back to normal. Now what is needed is for tourists to return.(Call first to ensure that your hotel/room is ready for you!)

I saw three boats lifted by Roddy and Abaco..something slavage. Rebel Razor is no longer in the backside of White Sound. (Tailwinds was also pulled out of the depths at Bluff House. Short Sail is back to it's mooring on White Sound.

Pieces of Deck House boat house are drifting around in White Sound. And last I heard the 75 ft. barge lost from Spanish Cay had not been found. (But I did see a similar size barge being towed in the direction of Spanish on my flight out this eve. Let's hope it was the missing one!)
Bita Bay House now has a nice mound of sand between them and the ocean. Now we just need to bring them some sea oats!

GT Club has been working fast and furiously on repairs and the dining room is close to being finished. They are aiming for a Nov. 14th re-opening.

Saw progress at Sundowners every day.

[Mike Stetson]

Good job Terry!

[Mike Stetson]

Taken Sept 30 -Oct 5 after Jeanne.

http://outerbanksvacationhomes.photosite.com/AbacoJeanne/
Thanks for sharing your pics with us Kimmy.

[Keys George]

ok guys, here's a new one: i just bought a maule on straight floats. where do i clear customs on the way to gtc from the keys? anyone? thanks. george