Grand Bahama
Deaf Association enjoyed performing at Independence celebrations
By Yasmin Popescu
Jul 24, 2013 - 5:18:30 PM


Freeport, BAHAMAS -  The Deaf Association in Grand Bahama made their grand debut last week during the 40th Independence Anniversary celebrations on the Independence Park.

This group was quite pleased with their acceptance and performance, and according to advisor for Marsha Stubbs, it was a beautiful time for them.

“It was a time that we could get the public to know about us and know that there is a Deaf Association, so that we can get some notoriety in Grand Bahama” she continued in an interview on Tuesday afternoon. “There is an association in Nassau and we are trying to link both associations so that there can be attention paid to the persons who are deaf.”

She said it was their first time performing as a group outside, other than performing at church events.

The Association was formed in 2010, but Ms. Stubbs said she joined in 2012 to assist.

The group has between 25 – 40 persons in the group and they meet monthly at the Beacon School.

President of the Association Jonathan Cooper, thanked Ms. Stubbs for getting them on the program to perform for Independence.

He took time to also encourage other deaf persons on the island to become involved in the association, “because don’t want them to feel left out, but to be a part of the community.”

He noted that during the performance on the park the group did very well, even though he thought at first that they would be scared and nervous.

Mr. Cooper then thanked Ms. Nicola Knowles who was the leading interpreter for the group, for the work she is doing in the community as well.

“It was awesome, with good spirit and while we performed I heard the people cheering but I don’t know what for, but I am very thankful to God for allowing us to perform.”

Ms. Stubbs said that future plans for the group include some afternoon classes in computer and crafts, so that they can enhance their skills.

She noted that member Paula Roberts is a filing clerk at Insurance Management, and others who are working in food stores and at gas stations. She said the association wants to broaden the capabilities of the members to get them to do more for themselves.

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