On the way home this evening I heard a brief segment of news where some people were disappointed to learn that the government has decided not to support the Bahamian American Association Incorporated (BAAI) with money to repair their building in New York City.

My understanding is that they want some $1,000,000 but this was not made clear in the newscast, or I missed it.

The web site of The Bahamian American Association Incorporated (BAAI) says:

We envisioned a reclaimed and renovated building at 211 West 137th Street, in New York City, which would provide a basement and sub-basement area for the association’s use, a first floor to host or sponsor seminars, conferences, community and cultural events, and a second and third floor area, which would complement the activities of the combining areas, consistent with the character of our not-for-profit organization.

It goes on further to state that:

Under the leadership of the Hon. Eldred ‘Ed’ Bethel, Consul General of The Bahamas to New York and Mr. William R. Dames, President of BAAI, a delegation of twenty- six association members and three supportive friends visited Nassau, Bahamas, from Thursday, May 25th to Sunday, May 28th, 2006. The focus of this sojourn was to sensitize the Bahamian Government and community of the contributions made by Bahamians and friends in New York City, and to appeal to the public and government for financial donations or partnership opportunities to renovate the historic building and home of the Bahamian American Association, Inc., located in Harlem.

Being inherently disposed to disagreeing with government, I find that I agree that our country should not support this adventure for a few people with a connection to The Bahamas, with taxpayer dollars.

Now if Bahamians wish to contribute their money directly to help restore the building that’s fine, but a million dollars or more is better spent here at home than on a site in New York that few Bahamians will ever enjoy.