The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

GRAND Bahamians are encouraged to demonstrate their pride and patriotism by decorating businesses, homes - and, yes, roundabouts for the 50th Independence anniversary celebrations.

The Grand Bahama Independence Committee and the Grand Bahama Port Authority Ltd on Tuesday launched the Deck the Roundabout 50th Independence Edition competition, with more than $20,000 in cash prizes available.

Chevonia McBride, project manager at the Ministry for Grand Bahama, and a representative of the Grand Bahama Independence Committee, said: “We want you to show your patriotism. We are asking persons to depict our theme for Independence: ‘One Nation. Our Legacy. Our Future.’ “

Ms McBride said they are excited about what residents will create and how they display their pride and culture.

Glendia Sweeting, manager of Group Corporate Affairs and Quality Assurance at the GBPA, said they are pleased to be partnering with the Ministry for Grand Bahama in such an initiative.

She said five roundabouts - at Coral Road, the Bowling Alley, West Atlantic Drive, the Shipyard, and the Container Port – have been selected for the decoration competition.

Ms Sweeting said large businesses are licensed with the GB Port Authority and government-licensed businesses will select one of the five roundabouts to decorate. A $15,000 cash prize will be awarded to the winner.

The medium to small businesses are invited to decorate their doors and windows for a chance to win $3,500 and $1,500 cash prizes respectively.

Ms Sweeting said residents are invited to decorate their front doors in true Bahamian style for a chance to win $500.

To register, individuals should visit the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s website, www.gbpa.com, or the Grand Bahama Port Authority Facebook page for access to the link to register.

Troy McIntosh, deputy director and city manager of the Grand Bahama Port Authority said the roundabout competition was started in 2016. He said they are excited to extend the process to the 50th Independence anniversary.

He said registration starts on June 19, and the deadline for submission to the roundabout competition is June 26.

Mr McIntosh said judging will be held July 8 through 12 for all categories, residential, small and medium-sized businesses, and all winners will be announced on July 13.