Friday, February 19, 2010

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Andrew Curry played vital role in nation's youth development By FRED STURRUP ~ NG Associate Editor ~ frederick@nasguard.com: The word rapidly spread around the country this past Sunday morning. Bahamian patriot, icon, educator, hero Andrew Curry had died. The 74-year-old mentor to thousands of the nation's youth population over a period of five-decades plus, was not able to overcome illness despite his incredibly strong spirit. Nevertheless, the body of work produced by Andrew will remain etched in the very fabric of this country forever. His many accomplishments spoke to a giant who cast a wide shadow that belied his rather small physically stature. Andrew was known the world over as an immensely talented musician. He was a cultural czar who crafted some of the finest choral groups in the history of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. He directed shows that compared favorably with those produced on Broadway in New York, Paris, or the London Theater. His organ playing for church services long ago became legendary. Andrew's talents were enjoyed also by the secular crowd. I recall the nights he was on keyboard starring with the famed Ronnie Butler in the Big Bamboo Club. And yes, there was more to Andrew Curry. His contributions aforementioned overshadowed the fact that he was a staunch supporter of sports. In his youth, he was a quality athlete. Years ago at Aquinas College, the staff would take on the varsity basketball team. Andrew astounded onlookers with his ability to handle the ball and smoothly drive to the basket and finish. He would give that sly wink when he scored. His look posed a question: "I bet you didn't think I could do that?" He was closely associated with the varsity teams. In basketball Vince Ferguson and then Jerry Harper would coach the teams, but the players could always rely on "Mr. Curry" transporting them to road games or ensuring transportation to the away venues. There was more. He was the mastermind along with his lovely wife Lynn behind the uniforms for the varsity teams at Aquinas. Long before the Puma, Nike and Adidas outfits became popular at local high schools, the Aquinas players performed in uniforms made by Lynn Curry (She did the same for the stage outfits and costumes). Andrew believed in the overall development of the student population and even during the years when the Aquinas students were known more for their singing and stage performances while being the doormats in sports, "Mr. Curry" stayed faithful to the school's sports cause. Under Coach Harper, the mighty Aquinas Aces became the best Bahamian high school squad in history. None, not even Coach Harper, or the star players, Charlie Robins, Dave Bastian, Noel Taylor and others were more delighted than Andrew. One got the clear feeling that "Mr. Curry" enjoyed the victories posted by the Aces just as much as he did his stage plays that packed the Garfunkel Auditorium on a regular basis. Andrew Curry, this man for all seasons, will be missed by a multitude of people. He meant so much to our national development. Condolences go out to Lynn, sons Andrew Jr. and Aemile and daughter Helena. May the soul of Andrew Curry forever rest in peace. Thursday, January 22, 2010