Stories for April 2012

Missing man

Police are requesting the public’s help in locating 25 year old CRAVON GLASS of BOATSWAIN HILL, CARMICHAEL ROAD.

PM hits back in Pindling row

THOSE involved in politics should remember it is they who are indebted to the people - not the other way around - Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham reminded Dame Marguerite Pindling over the weekend.

Decomposed body found

A BODY is carried away through the rain . . .

Man dies in hail of bullets

THE COUNTRY'S murder count rose to 42 over the weekend when a 31-year-old man was gunned down in front of his home.

Two injured in separate shootings

TWO men are in hospital fighting for their lives after being shot in two separate incidents over the weekend.

Election focus on the economy

IN THE wake of a global economic downturn which brought great challenges over the last five years, the FNM, PLP and DNA each propose a different path to restoring the well-being of

DNA candidate hits out over lack of notice

MARIO Cartwright, the DNA's Long Island candidate yesterday criticised government officials for failing to notify family islanders of their eligibility to participate in Advanced Polling.

Christie: i'll sue over oil claims

PLP LEADER Perry Christie said he will sue the FNM for defamation over the allegations that he is a consultant for a company that hopes to drill for oil in the Bahamas.

Toddler struck by car dies in hospital

FREEPORT - Grand Bahama recorded its second traffic death for the year when a toddler, who was struck by a car on April 1 in Eight Mile Rock, d

Hot air or scandal?

THE two major parties spent the weekend accusing each other of making things up.

PLP claim on decline of visitors is rejected

FREEPORT - Although PLP Leader Perry Christie claims that stopover arrivals have declined under the FNM, Minister of Tourism Vincent Va

'Gun fired' on Atlantis capital improvements

KERZNER International has "fired the gun" on what is expected to be a $60-$65 million capital investment programme at the Atlantis resort in 2012, its Bahamian head saying performance targets set by the new owners would not involve "miracle work" to meet them.

Banks to replace $130m in capital

BAHAMIAN-owned commercial banks will have to phase out and replace some $130 million in collective preference share capital over the next decade, a task that has been described as a "significant change but not onerous".

Atlantis primed for 'take-off to greater heights'

KERZNER International's completed $2.5 billion debt restructuring will pave the way to "a new take-off to even much greater heights" for its former Paradise Island properties, the minister of tourism and aviation believes, with the Government having all the Bahamian employment and tourism economy safeguards it wanted.

Hilton invests $1m in upgrades

THE British Colonial Hilton has seen a positive performance this year in all segments of its business, an executive telling Tribune Business that it had recently spent $1 million to improve its product offering.

Scrap metal hunters may be to blame for bush fires

FREEPORT - The brush fire season here normally begins in May, and fire officials are concerned that persons in search of scrap me

Prime Minister dedicates campaign to grandmother

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham dedicated his final campaign to his grandmother's memory as he pledged his commitment to public life and

Who is the best man in Nassau Village?

A few weeks ago, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham personally distributed the Free National Movement (FNM) manifesto to each of the 38 FNM candidates on stage at a mass rally. He wanted everyone to have a manifesto in

The hard truth about real estate

The hard truth about real estate By Mike Lightbourn Today I'm going to shatter a myth. Real estate is a very difficult career. Successful realtors are married to their jobs. That means showing properties on evenings and weekends. Realtors don't earn a

Team Bahamas misses golden opportunity in the 4x4 relay

THE Bahamas men's team of Demetrius Pinder, Ramon Miller, Michael Mathieu and Chris Brown gave it a gallant effort but missed a golde

8,000 PI jobs guarantee is 'exceptional'

PRIVATE sector leaders have hailed the Government's achievement in getting the new Atlantis and One & Only Ocean Club owners to commit to maintaining a minimum 8,000 employee level on Paradise Island as "exceptional", adding that this and other assurances seemed to be "a win-win for all concerned" in the short-term at least.

Depend on Gov't for regulation only

MOST economic textbooks tell us there are a number of different types of enterprise - sole proprietorships, partnerships, private and public liability companies, corporations and the Government.

Cuckoos win Bahamas Cup final

Cuckoos Rugby Club cemented their status as the dominant team in the Bahamas Rugby Football Union (BRFU) 2011-2012 season. The side completed an undefeated run o

Building suppliers 'cut off' from large projects

BUILDING material and supplies companies say sales continue to remain relatively flat, with one executive claiming that Bahamians are being completely shut off from big projects.

Lady Sonia wins national title

DESPITE the inclement weather in picturesque Elizabeth Harbour, Georgetown, Exuma, the 59th National Family Island Regatta saw a dominating performance from t

PLP candidate urges Gov't: 'Be more specific on Atlantis'

THE Government has been urged to be more specific on the scope of job security provided to Kerzner International's 8,000 employees on Paradise Island in the resurrected 'debt-for-equity' swap deal with Brookfield Asset Management.

My plan for small business growth

SMALL and Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME) owners must carefully review all political parties' platforms for the upcoming May 7, 2012, general election. SME owners must determine which political party best articulates strategies that will develop the SME sector, and grow and diversify the economy of the Bahamas.

WHO'S AFRAID OF THE DNA?

The Democratic National Alliance has managed to establish itself as a real political contender, capable of attracting more support than any third party before it. The big question is, at whose expense?

GAME OF THRONES: Alfie Allen talks to the Big T

• THE Big T got a chance to sit down with three leading actors from the award-winning HBO show “Game of Thrones” as they wrapped up their tour of the region to promote the second season. In a Tribune exclusive three-part interview series, find out what is in store for the new season and get up close and personal with Kit Harington (Jon Snow), Alfie Allen (Theon Greyjoy) and Richard Madden (Robb Stark).

Lady Pindling hits back over Sir Lynden 'endorsement' of Ingraham

Dame Marguerite Pindling, wife of the late Sir Lynden Pindling, has hit back at Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham over a video showing her husband 'endorsing' the FNM leader.

VIDEO: Brookfield made Atlantis' new owner

BROOKFIELD has officially taken over ownership of Atlantis with a “seamless deal” that will see no job losses and no impact on the Bahamas’ economy.

Nassau Beach Hotel demolished

The Nassau Beach Hotel is demolished yesterday as part of the ongoing work at Baha Mar ahead of redevelopment.

Cruise line to stop overnight stays

THE Carnival Cruise Lines' Sensation ship will no longer overnight in Nassau over the next year leaving disgruntled downtown store owners with what they call "a big problem".

Pinder rejects findings of election poll

PLP candidate Ryan Pinder yesterday predicted he will win the Elizabeth seat by hundreds of votes, dismissing survey results that put him in a deadlock with FNM candidate Duane Sands.

Confrontation outside court

A WAR of words took place yesterday outside court between the family of a man nearly killed at a cemetery last weekend and four brothers charged in connection with that incident.

Election focus on health

THE NEED for major changes to public health care is a common theme this election season, with the FNM, PLP and DNA pledging to modernise the system and make it more

Prosecution given deadline by judge in rape case

A MAGISTRATE gave the prosecution in a rape case a little more than seven weeks to have a document ready to have a man accused of rape s

21 women named Zonta Living Legends

A group of 21 trailblazing Bahamian women will take their place on Saturday, April 28 amongst the group named Zonta Living Legends. "It is very important that we recognise these ladies because of the significant contri

Political vandals caught on YouTube

A VIDEO depicting alleged Free National Movement supporters removing PLP political posters went viral on social media yesterday, sparking a wave of public response.

PLP hit out at 'dictator' Prime Minister

PLP DEPUTY Leader Philip "Brave" Davis yesterday accused the Prime Minister and the government of "suppressing free speech" by allegedly removing PLP banners from across New Providence.

Listen carefully to all sides

AS MAY 7th approaches, all registered voters and people who we think are registered will be faced with a common problem.

Where the PM goes, the PLP follows

We are quickly approaching May 7th. It is amazing to me that the PLP continue to follow the Prime Minister wherever he goes to have a rally.

FNM decisions lessen economic hardships

ONE of our readers does not believe that enough focus has been given to the human impact of some of government’s policies and accomplishments in downtown Nassau.

DNA demand Christie's resignation

THE DNA is calling for the resignation of PLP leader Perry Christie over his connection to the Bahamas Petroleum Company.

No Tina, it's simply the rest

NEVER MIND the election. As rumours spread that a very special guest would attend last night's FNM rally, Tina Turner fever took over the country.

'Almost $900m' raised on LPIA redevelopment

THE Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) yesterday told Tribune Business it had now raised "almost $900 million" via six separate financial transactions, having just closed the final $225 million round to fund Lynden Pindling International Airport's (LPIA) $409.5 million redevelopment.

24% energy cost rise 'Achilles heel for private sector

WITH Bahamian hotels suffering a 24 per cent year-over-year increase in electricity costs for January 2012, a senior industry executive yesterday warned that energy prices were the "Achilles heel" for the sector and wider business community, urging this nation to press "the priority button" in tackling the issue.

Benedict House victorious

St Bede's Primary School hosted its inter-house track and field meet at Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium on Wednesday. The meet was officially opened by former athlete and coach Evon Wisdom, who now heads the Sports Div

Fuel costs hurting tour firms 'big time'

TOUR companies are going to be hurt "big time", and some may end up going broke if fuel prices continue to rise, a leading operator telling Tribune Business yesterday that "our fuel costs have gone through the roof".

$250k wine boutique set to create six jobs

A WINE boutique will now complement the gourmet Balduccino Fine Foods deli, its general manager, Anton Alexiou, telling Tribune Business yesterday that over $250,000 had been invested into the venture that would likely create six additional jobs.

'No question' over AML-City Markets deal if left to chiefs

CITY Markets' principal yesterday said "there's no question" that a Joint Venture partnership with BISX-listed AML Foods would have been secured if he had been negotiating solely with the latter's chairman, while confirming that the Finlayson family had initially sought Board control.

Learn from, don't fret, over failures

THIS week's article is directed more towards Internet entrepreneurs, although the comparisons to land-based businesses are there, too. Besides, many Bahamians are already out there on the web, and their businesses are starting to attract good resale prices, too.

Real estate exposure boost through 12m hits per month site

PROPERTIES listed on the Bahamas Real Estate Association's (BREA) multiple listing service (MLS) will now benefit from 'global exposure' through their listing on the popular US real estate site, Realtor.com, which has 12 million hits per month.

30th NPPPSSA Track and Field Championships starts April 30

FOR the second consecutive year, the New Providence Public Primary School Sports Association will partner with a key corporate spons

Sky Bahamas chiefs deny share allegation

SKY Bahamas' principals yesterday told Tribune Business they completely "deny" allegations by a former executive of the airline that they conspired to squeeze him out of his equity stake in the company, and recorded incorrect shareholdings in the Companies Registry.

SAC girls strike gold in 4 x 1 at Penn Relays

The St Augustine's College Big Red Machine, taking advantage of another free trip by the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) go

VIDEO: Footage unveiled at FNM rally

Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham stunned supporters at the FNM rally at Clifford Park on Thursday night.

YESI to host Pro Trials as part of 'Happy Feet Soccer Clinic'

FOR the second time this year, Happy Hall and his YESI organisation are hosting an edition of the "Happy Feet Soccer Clinic" for y

PM attacks PLP record

BATTLING a sore throat, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham last night rallied his troops at a massive event at Clifford Park.

Banners come down - then go back up again

GOVERNMENT officials yesterday confirmed they were given a directive to remove specific PLP billboards from around New Providence – but would not say who gave the order or why it was given.

Union 'was not hired to strike'

EXECUTIVES in the customs and immigration union yesterday denied claims that the union was "hired" by the PLP to strike and hurt the FNM's chances at the polls.

FNM targets victory in 12 family island seats

FNM targets victory in 12 family island seats By KHRISNA VIRGIL kvirgil@tribunemedia.net THE Free National Movement will win 12 family island seats in the May 7 general election, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said last night. Those seats comprise 15 o

PLP hopeful backs oil exploration

OIL exploration and the use of liquefied natural gas is critical to the diversification of the Bahamas' economy, according to PLP candidate Leslie Miller, who said that LNG was the energy of the future.

Survey: It's neck-and-neck in Elizabeth

SUPPORT for both major political parties in Elizabeth is closely matched, according to a new survey, which puts candidates Dr Duane Sands and R

Oil washed ashore after thunderstorm

FOLLOWING a brisk weekend storm, South Ocean residents were horrified to find their local beach hemmed in by a thick coat of black oil.

Hospitals respond to EMS fears

THE Public Hospitals Authority responded to claims its ambulances lack life-saving drugs and dismissed the concerns of Emergency Medical Services staff who fear being overlooked when the health system is revamped.

APPEAL IN MILLIONAIRES' DISPUTE MUST WAIT UNTIL AFTER ELECTION

YESTERDAY'S Appeal Court hearing, expected to end the six-year dispute between the millionaire Weissfisch brothers, did not go ahead as scheduled. It is understood the hearing was rescheduled for May 9 -- two days after the general election. The dispute st

Mitchell seeks to block FNM tv ad

PLP Fox Hill candidate Fred Mitchell yesterday called on broadcast authorities to block an advertisement he says seeks to connect to him to an alleged "visa scandal".

$4m for cameras to fight crime

THE National Closed Circuit Television Project will see more than 200 surveillance cameras worth more than $4 million installed in various locations around New Providence.

Total number of crimes down on last year

THE number of reported crimes so far this year has fallen in comparison to the same period last year. Police statistics show rape, murder, burglary and

National Security Minister congratulated

THE $4.6 million contract signed yesterday by Minister Tommy Turnquest to install 243 Closed Circuit Television cameras in strategic locations in New Providence is indeed a "critical milestone" in government's efforts to fight crime.

Imagine the next generation

As I move around I can hear and feel the frustration that engulfs our society.

As we listen to politicians

It is truly amazing that politicians are so able to divide us along the lines of their views. We look at the same item and depending on our political leanings we develop totally opposing views.

PLP pays its respects after deputy leader's father dies

THE Progressive Liberal Party is mourning the death of Brave Edward Davis, father of the party's deputy leader Philip Davis and a dedicated PLP member for more than 30 years.

From summits with presidents to meeting primary school students

NEVER mind the election season hype - most Bahamians already know who they will support come May 7, Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette said.

PM accuses PLP of being copycats

FREEPORT - Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham is accusing the PLP of "copycatting" and taking ideas from the FNM's manifesto, particularly as it relate

Immigration: Parties face up to a burning issue

ILLEGAL immigration continues to be a hot topic in the Bahamas and all three major political parties have released extensive plans to comba

11.2% stopover growth 'third highest ever'

THE 11.2 per cent air arrivals growth rate achieved by the Bahamian tourism industry during the 2012 first quarter "is the third best on record", the minister of tourism and aviation said yesterday, revealing that he was working on plans to "eke out more business" in the traditionally slow September/October period.

Questions from religious leaders

A GROUP of religious leaders is calling on candidates to declare their stance on pornography, gay marriage and several other "moral and national" issues ahead of the May 7 general election. The Bahamas Coalition of Evangelical Pastors emailed a

$250m project to make Bimini 'The Hamptons of the Bahamas'

THE Bimini Bay Resort's developers yesterday said they were aiming to transform Bimini into "The Hamptons of the Bahamas" via their next $250 million development phase, a project that could potentially generate several hundred full-time jobs for Bahamians.

Bimini Bay targets 10% occupancy rise

THE 374-room Bimini Bay Resort is projecting 10 per cent year-over-year occupancy growth in 2012, a senior executive telling Tribune Business yesterday that its developers had invested around $290 million in its build out to-date.

Almatte is queen bee in spelling contest

THIRTY-TWO Stephen Dillet Primary School sixth-graders graduated from the High Flyers leadership programme and were congratulated and presented wit

Businesses suffer 15-30% energy cost increases

MAJOR Bahamas-based businesses yesterday said that have seen electricity costs surge as much as 15-30 per cent year-over-year during 2012 to-date, one telling Tribune Business the issue was the "biggest deterrent" to getting into - and running - a company.

Hotels beat Q1 occupancy goal by 'just over 1%'

THE 14-property Nassau/Paradise Island hotel industry's 71.2 per cent average occupancy rate for the 2012 first quarter beat projections by "just over 1 per cent", the Bahamas Hotel Association's (BHA) president said yesterday, with occupancies lagging just below - and possibly set to "this year surpass" pre-recession levels.

Bahamas' very own among IAAF Top 10

OUR very own athletes standout in several marquee events in the latest release of the IAAF Top Lists yesterday. Bahamians appear among the top 10 performers

Why should Bahamas be in 7% oil minority?

IT CREPT like a spider, softly climbing up our back. Suddenly, it appeared in front of our eyes: big and black, poised to strike.

Coach excited about Team Bahamas in the Penn Relays

BASED on the performances seen over the last few weeks since he got his assignment, coach Henry Rolle said he's excited about the Bahamas

Regatta pushes back radar maintenance

A SCHEDULED maintenance of the radar system at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) has been pushed back to avoid heavy delays during the busy Exuma regatta weekend, aviation officials said yesterday, which was welcome news for airline executives looking to capitalise on the peak period.

Bottled water producers feeling foreign pressure

BAHAMAS-based bottled water companies are facing stiff foreign competition, the head of one leading producer telling Tribune Business yesterday that high electricity costs, 15 per cent up over last year, was another major challenge.

Cable Bahamas receives special plaque

CABLE Bahamas yesterday received a special plaque from the Government Secondary Schools Sporting Association (GSSSA), thanking the cable provider for its support in airing the New Providence Public Schools Basketball

Boxing club getting prospects ready for the 2016 Olympics

KEEPING with their mandate to increase the exposure of amateur boxing in the country, Champion Amateur Boxing Club (CABC) is scheduled

'Fire Proof' - Bahamas National Baptist Young Adult Ministry hosts youth conference

SEXUALITY, love, relationships and finance are among the issues that can throw up obstacles for some young Christians.

"A Spring Affair" - Transfiguration Baptist Church hosts tea party and fashion show

THE youngest members of the Transfiguration Baptist Church were the ones who turned heads as the church's Usher Board held its first ever Lenten Tea Party and Fashion Show.

Intimidation

INTIMIDATION is almost always as a result of someone trying to gain control over someone or something that they never had control over before. Therefore intimidation acts as a disguise to strike fear in its victim to ultimately gain control and cause its victim to become subject to them.

Video emerges of alleged FNMs removing PLP signs

Youtube video emerged this morning showing men removing campaign signs placed at what appears to be the new six legged roundabout.

'It's not a hologram, it's just a delusion'

FRANK Smith, PLP candidate for Montagu, yesterday called Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham "delusional" for accusing the PLP of using holograms to increase the number of supporters at their rallies.

PM hits out at Christie oil link

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham criticised Opposition Leader Perry Christie's involvement with a foreign oil company that is seeking to explore for oil in Bahamian waters.

DNA pledge to revamp education

THE DEMOCRATIC National Alliance will put an end to the “social promotion” of students in the public education system if elected as the next government.

Power cut at new court forces delays in hearings

A POWER disruption at the new Magistrates Court complex yesterday morning forced an hour delay in a number of cases and adjournments in others.

PLP plan jettisons anchor projects

ABANDONING their once signature "anchor project" plan, the PLP now proposes to develop the Family Islands through the creation of "full-circle economies" involving smaller scale tourism projects, agriculture, fisheries and mariculture.

'Cousin' Christie claim

THE latest taunt coming out of the FNM war machine is that the 'Bay Street Boys', long associated with the governing party, would actually prefer opposition leader Perry Christie to be prime minister.

Will drilling for oil decide this election?

ACCORDING to the talk, the PLP are now busy making promises to the unions of how much better off their members will be under a Christie government.

Who tief a bit of Nassau?

ASK any Bahamian: "What is the size of New Providence?" Invariably you will be told "21 by 7". Wrong answer! The length of our "Island Paradise" is just over 18.5 statute miles (16 and a bit nautical miles)! Don't believe me; check it out on Google Earth or a chart plotter!

Vandalism a sign of PLP beliefs

THE defacement and destruction of FNM posters and signs could be noticed throughout the island of New Providence. On my way out of my community of Mt Pleasant Village today, I have noticed that the sign and posters of the FNM leader, and candidate have been knocked totally out of the ground and smashed.

Union must answer for its actions

1957: Nassau International Airport opens. One hundred protesting taxi drivers block access to the new airport for 24 hours.

NEMA inspects homes being built in acklins

THE National Emergency Management Agency said it is pleased with the progress of reconstruction in the Family Islands most affected by Hurricane Irene.

Man cleared of bank robbery

ONE of two men on trial for the 2010 armed robbery of a local bank was acquitted yesterday.

Four arrested over theft of vessels worth $500,000

FREEPORT - Four Bahamian men were arrested and two stolen vessels valued at more than half a million dollars were recovered during a joint operation between Bahamian and US authorities.

Union denies blame for water interruption

WATER and Sewerage workers remain engaged in a bitter dispute with the corporation, but their union insists the interruption in water services to western New Providence yesterday was not its doing.

DNA wants a judicial review of Gomez nomination

THE Democratic National Alliance has vowed to contest the nomination of FNM South Beach candidate Monique Gomez in the Supreme Court.

Online boutique launch takes Fashion Show 'to next level'

ORGANISERS behind the Islands of the World Fashion Showcase will next month launch an online boutique/label designed to promote the wares of Bahamian designers to the world, telling Tribune Business yesterday that 50 per cent of those exhibiting at their upcoming show were from this nation.

Bahamas 'on pace' for 2008 stopover levels in 6 months

AIR arrivals to the Bahamas are likely to match 2008 pre-recession levels "in six months at the pace we're going", the director-general of tourism said yesterday, telling Tribune Business that the extension of the 'Air Credit' promotion three weeks ago had generated bookings equivalent to almost 6,000 stopover arrivals.

Bahamasair in 60% local load factors boost

BAHAMASAIR expects to fully take over servicing Vision Airlines' Grand Bahama routes in December 2012 as part of a two-phased arrangement, the airline's managing director told Tribune Business yesterday, adding that the state-owned carrier was holding its own on domestic routes with load factors averaging in the high 60 per cents.

Skills that remain difficult to copy

MR PROLE was a greying, middle-aged English literature teacher who taught me in the 11th grade. He stopped me one afternoon in the school's walkway, stroked his short beard and told me some words that I have never forgotten. "You are a good writer," he said. Even though English language and literature had always been strong subjects for me, his words were enough to give me the confidence, even to this day, that I needed. I could influence others with the written word.

Discount plan targets 20% savings for Bahamas hotels

MANY small and medium-sized Bahamas-based hotels, especially those in the Family Islands, can now take advantage of volume purchase discounts generating savings of up to 20 per cent, placing them on the same footing as chains and large resorts.

Cooper elected Chamber chair

THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) has elected I. Chester Cooper, BAF Financial's president and chief executive, as its new chairman, and also chosen a new Board.

Gov't says economy grew 1.6% in 2011

THE Government last night released preliminary estimates showing the Bahamian economy's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 1.6 per cent in 2011, based on constant prices, despite household spending decreasing by 2 per cent.

Crucial times for the conch

FIVE centuries ago, the Amerindian inhabitants of the Bahamas lived in a completely different world from the one we know today.

Suns shine as runners-up

After dominating the local scene for the past few years, the Temple Christian Suns took their primary boys and girls basketball teams to Florida where they participated in the third annual Jacksonville Magic AAU Tournament.

Macedonia wins the pennant

THERE was some "jiggling" of teams in the standings in both the 15-and-under and 19-and-under divisions on Saturday as the Baptist Sports Council continued its basketball regular season before the rain washed out the majority of the men's games.

RoyalStar: Acquisition in Cayman did 'not come off'

ROYALSTAR Assurance's $41.58 million capital base has given it an acquisition 'war chest', its managing director disclosing to Tribune Business that an attempted purchase in the Cayman Islands last year failed to "come off" due to differences over valuation.

'Gimmick fears' on roadworks compensation

BUSINESS owners impacted by the New Providence Road Improvement Project yesterday said they were still waiting to see what sort of compensation they would receive after completing the Ministry of Finance's survey, one telling Tribune Business he felt the move may have simply been a "gimmick".

Dancers get groovy for womanhood

IN A tribute to women, the National Dance School of the Bahamas celebrated its 35th anniversary with rhythm and cheer. The dance and drum concert drew a full house at the National Center for the Performing Arts, last Thursday.

Party vibes reign at political rallies

SOME say a political rally without entertainment is enough to force a person into a sleeping daze; others say the party is not as important as the Party's message.

Consummate crafter turns to texture painting

Multi-talented is perhaps an understated description of the people taking the texture painting class in Central Eleuthera. A common thread throughout most of the students regardless of their profession was that they all were working on a second or even third stream of income. Such tenacity kept students like the bright eyed and bushy-tailed Susan Culmer throughout the entire clas

Legendary Marley presented like never before

MARLEY, the documentary film on the legendary Bob Marley hits the screens in 13 islands across the Caribbean starting with the first Bahamas screening tonight at Galleria Cinema 11. The film tells a definitive story of the life and legacy of the internationally renowned musician, revolutionary and legend through the eyes of those who knew him best. In the Bahamas, the film is rated C (18yrs and older).

Heliconias and Gingers

Although heliconias and gingers are not related they share similarities and in general are grown under the same conditions. The banana-like heliconia leaves make them popular in garden stands because they are attractive even when not flowering. Some gingers tend to disappear from above ground after flowering but soon come back with renewed intensity.

Colton Dixon Eliminated

A POPULAR American Idol contestant was eliminated from the show last week, sparking more outcry about the show's "failure to recognise talent".

The Truth branches out

THE TRUTH band gained its national spotlight after performing in the Global Battle of the Bands competition last month. For months, however, patrons at Hammerheads bar have enjoyed a regular dose of reggae, rock, and alternative music from the young band.

Party leaders in shouting match

DNA leader Branville McCartney got into a heated shouting match with Perry Christie on live radio yesterday morning over claims the opposition leader colluded with Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham on boundary changes ahead of the general election.

Constituency maps and candidates online

New Providence, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands

Election jitters hit first-time voters

FOR several young Bahamian women, May 7 will mirror the historic day of November 26, 1962 - when women voted for the first time in Bahamas. Although women have been enfranchised for some 50 years, many women have just come of age, or found the right circumstance to be present at the poles.

21 women prepare for public honour

On April 28, a group of 21 Bahamian women will take their place in the history books as Zonta Living Legends.

Erectile dysfunction and your mouth

Erectile dysfunction is generally described as the inability to attain and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It usually affects men over age 40 and affects approximately one in ten men worldwide.

Major advancement for Caribbean cancer care

Caribbean medical history will be made on April 26 with the groundbreaking of a new cancer centre in St John's, Antigua that is modeled off a Bahamian initiative.

On Saturday 'head for the coast'

BAHAMIANS are gearing up for a Fun, Run, Walk on Saturday to celebrate Coastal Awareness Month.

Living with lupus: 'It takes courage'

THE CHRONIC autoimmune disease lupus is a little known disorder in the Bahamas, but there are those like Shanelle Brennen who have fought the disease with the utmost courage for more than 20 years.

Boxing in Paradise V: ‘Kid Wonder’ vs. Julius Jackson

The return to professional boxing for one Bahamian fighter will be met with a formidable test when he faces a former Olympian for the vacant WBC Youth Super Middleweight Silver Title.

'We hope we will have a very successful three-year span'

WITH Burket Dorsett re-elected as president of the Bahamas Softball Federation (BSF) along with his executive team, the administratio

Freedom Farm defeat Grand Bahama 7-5

Inter-island play between junior baseball leagues throughout the country continues to thrive with the recent hosting of the first Bahamas Baseball Federation Mini Island Tournament. Freedom Farm took the championship

Unions blast 'limbo' for City Markets staff

TRADE union executives yesterday reiterated that former City Markets employees cannot be left in "limbo" while a deal for the sale of the struggling food store chain is worked out.

PLP reveals plan for government

THE PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party last night released its "Charter for Governance," a blueprint on how they will govern if victorious at the polls on May 7.

Manhunt after cemetery murder

POLICE are searching for three men after a 25-year-old man was shot, stabbed and beaten with a rock over the weekend.

Police deny reports over rape claim

POLICE chiefs remained tightlipped over the nature of complaints filed against a senior police officer yesterday.

City Market row could go to us court

CITY Market primary owner Mark Finlayson could soon face charges in the New York City Supreme Appellate court over the release of millions in unpaid pension money tied to the company's sale negotiations, employee spokesperson Whanslaw Turnquest yesterday confirmed.

PLP branded untrustworthy over oil drilling by FNM

THE FNM has dismissed the opposition's assurances on oil drilling as untrustworthy considering the PLP's scandal-ridden record.

Men in court over PI drug charges

TEN men appeared in Magistrate's Court yesterday charged with committing drug offences on Paradise Island last week.

'It was a slugfest'

It was a slugfest at the Banker's Field last night as the Bommer G Operators avenged their loss to the Proper Care Lady Sharks. In the New Providence Softball Associatio

DNA to challenge validity of Gomez

THE Democratic National Alliance challenged the validity of an FNM candidate's nomination yesterday.

Playing the game of politics

POLITICS is a game and there are no rules. The game board is comprised of players who claim that they want what is best for us. They will say anything and do anything to get "another chance", to do all the good things they would like to do for us.

Posters Vandalised

I HAVE noticed that three of the giant campaign posters of Free National Movement (FNM) Member of Parliament for Pineridge, Kwasi Thompson, have been torn. I am referring to the posters on the circle on Coral Road and Settlers Way; Pioneers Way and East Mall Drive and Pioneers Way and West Atlantic Drive.

Oil explorer 'exceeds' licence renewal terms

THE Bahamas-based oil explorer that has been rocked by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham's assertion that he would not permit exploration/drilling in this nation if returned to office moved to further calm the international markets yesterday, saying it had "exceeded" all obligations required to obtain a further three-year renewal of its licences.

How yellow changed to red in Centreville

AFTER a second tour of Bay and Grants Town Saturday, Prime Minister Ingraham said yesterday he is confident that the FNM will win the once PLP stronghold – turning it from a stream of yellow to an ocean of red.

Emergency crews fear being overlooked by new government

EMERGENCY Medical Services personnel at the Princess Margaret Hospital are afraid the new government will overlook their needs after the May 7 general elections.

Union officials demand prison chief's resignation

THE National Congress of Trade Unions yesterday demanded the resignation of Prison Superintendent Ellison Rahming, saying he failed to deliver better working conditions for his officers.

Equities 'rebound'as trade volumes rise 71% in Q1

A LEADING investment banker yesterday said Bahamian share prices had "bottomed" and that the market was starting to "rebound", with collective trading volumes for all BISX-listed securities up 71.4 per cent year-over-year in the 2012 first quarter.

Bahamas Waste targets 34% profit rise, waste plant bids

BAHAMAS Waste has submitted bids for the multi-million dollar Pinewood Gardens and Gladstone Road wastewater treatment plants in a move to expand its service lines, Tribune Business was told yesterday, with the BISX-listed company projecting a 34.4 per cent net income increase for 2012.

Wholesaler confirms City Meat HQ interest

LIGHTBOURN Trading, while confirming to Tribune Business that it was in negotiations to acquire the former City Markets head office and warehouse complex, yesterday indicated no deal had been sealed, and that it would either be "building or buying" depending on whether or not it successfully closed.

AML chair: City Markets deal 'kept changing'

AML Foods chairman yesterday said its efforts to acquire City Markets' remaining business fell apart because the latter's principal, Mark Finlayson, "kept changing the terms of the deal" on a daily basis, and had nothing to do with the BISX-listed food retail group refusing to take on the chain's staff.

PM:We will take seat for Bain and Grants Town

PRIME MINISTER Hubert Ingraham said yesterday he is confident the FNM will take Bain and Grants Town from the PLP in the May 7 elections.

Party's views on tourism in run-up to the big vote

THE nation's number one industry makes for a hot topic this election.

BTC invests $1m in retail roll-out

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday said it had invested just over $1 million on its retail roll-out to-date, and seen sales increase at all the five completed outlets.

Graycliff eyeing Caribbean growth

GRAYCLIFF's boutique airport lounge at Cincinnati Airport could be completed by this June, a company spokesperson said yesterday, telling Tribune Business that discussions on expanding the concept to several other airports within the US were in the final stages.

VIDEO: PM: Are PLP supporters really holograms?

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham last night revealed that he has received reports that the PLP is utilising "holograms" to increase the number of supporters that appear at their rallies. Addressing his parties' supp

Atlantic Medical fun run a hit

THE Atlantic Medical Fun Run/Walk 2012 was a tremendous success according to organisers. More than 2,000 walkers and runners from all walks of life participated in the event, now in its 14th year. Companies and corporation

Police deny reports on nature of officer investigation

POLICE have denied reports concerning the nature of a investigation into a senior police officer.

Roof ripped off as storms sweep across the Bahamas

THE NATIONAL Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) assessed the damage to homes yesterday after a freak storm tore the roof from at least one residence in southern New Providence during the early hours of Sunday.

Can you keep up?

During the past 12 months, how many homes have you personally sold? Ten, 15, 20? How did you attract the buyers? Which marketing techniques were most effective? What factors have occurred to affect the selling price?

Hit-and-run killer jailed for 15 years

Hit-and-run killer jailed for 15 years By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net FREEPORT - Hit-and-run killer Glinton Louis has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for manslaughter. Louis, 32, was convicted in March of

Cuba decisions rooted in politics, not principle

US President Barack Obama vetoed Cuba's attendance at this month's Summit of the Americas in Colombia for domestic political reasons. He was not alone in applying domestic considera

Paradise Island arrests as police launch drugs crackdown

POLICE arrested 11 men during a three-day crackdown on Paradise Island last week.

Former death row inmate 'waited too long' to challenge court ruling

THE Court of Appeal told a former death row inmate he waited too long to challenge a 2008 ruling.

Charged over sex claims

FREEPORT - A 29-year-old man was charged with having sex with three young boys on Grand Bahama.

Foxdale playground

WITH election fever upon the citizens of The Bahamas, Foxdale Subdivision is being courted by the sitting member of parliament with the promise of a long overdue playground being provided after said MP is re-elected.

Why has Troy Garvey rejoined the PLP?

I WAS taken aback after I had seen a photo of popular Grand Bahama activist Troy Garvey on stage with Gregory Moss at a massive Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) rally in Freeport at the Old Portion Control grounds on Saturday, April 14, on a popular Internet newspaper that is pro-PLP. Moss is the PLP's standard bearer for the Marco City constituency.

Discussions to conclude today ahead of robbery trial

PRIVATE discussions between a Supreme Court judge and the attorneys in a 2010 bank robbery trial will conclude today when the judge r

Hollande victory could impact US markets

A strong showing by Socialist candidate François Hollande in the first round of France’s presidential election Sunday may rattle US and global financial markets in the coming weeks.

$20m complex named after Cornelius A Smith

FREEPORT - The new $20 million government complex was named in honor of Cornelius A Smith and was opened by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham

Mammoth air carrier lands in Grand Bahama

Mammoth air carrier lands in Grand Bahama FREEPORT - One of the largest air-freight carriers in the world landed at Grand Bahama International Airport on Saturday in a display of the island's potential as a logistic hub for air transportation.

Party by party: where the candidates stand on crime

THE Bahamas put the world on alert in early 2010 after a country which is noted for its sun, sand and sea racked up 87 murders the year before.

GB Power minimises $4.7m recovery effect

GB Power minimises $4.7m recovery effect By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor The Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) has received regulatory approval to minimise the consumer impact of recovering a $4.7 million impairment charge by spreading it out o

PI resort facing wind-up petition

THE Paradise Island-based Club Land'Or resort is facing a winding-up petition in the Supreme Court, as a former employee bids to secure compensation she claims is due to her from the property.

Giants win the title in Bimini

ONE or two times wasn't enough for the Commonwealth Bank Giants. After three-peating as the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) champions, they went to Bimini and duplicated the fea

Outdoor victories for 'Superman' & Thomas

Triple jumper Leevan 'Superman' Sands and high jumper Donald Thomas both opened their 2012 outdoor season with victories as they begin their quest for the London Olympics in August. The duo,

Lightbourn Trading likely purchaser for ex-City Markets HQ

BAHAMIAN wholesaler Lightbourn Trading is the party in negotiations to acquire the former City Markets head office and warehouse complex from the supermarket chain's staff pension fund, Tribune Business can reveal, with the Finlayson family hoping to exit majority ownership of the latter "by the end of this week".

Bahamas Waste in 135% profits rise

DESPITE a 134.8 per cent year-over-year net income increase to $461,181, Bahamas Waste's managing director has revealed that results for 2011 were "still not as good as we had expected", with some business categories underperforming internal expectations.

WTO vital to protect Bahamas from 'abuse'

THE Bahamas' lead World Trade Organisation (WTO) negotiator "can't imagine" that the next government would fail to complete the process of achieving full membership, arguing that this was vital to preventing other nations from "abusing" this country and its private sector.

Manage to lead with full integrity

QUESTIONS about ethical and moral behaviour in leadership are probably being asked around the country, particularly as we prepare for the electoral process.

8% revenue rise maintains Nassau hotels upswing

THE 14-property Nassau/Paradise Island hotel industry last night reported an 8 per cent year-over-year room revenue increase for March 2012, with average daily room rates (ADRs) and occupancies both up on 2011 levels.

Oil’s economic significance is ‘being ignored’

The Bahamian people should determine whether ventures such as oil exploration/drilling should be explored in this nation’s water, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s (BCCEC) chairman saying the issues at stake were much wider than those presently being discussed.

Severance pay for City Markets 'moot'

A RECENT Supreme Court decision involving a group of former City Markets employees in Freeport has made the issue of severance pay for former Nassau staff a "moot point," according to an attorney involved in the matter.

DNA hammers opponents at mass rally: An in-depth review

LOVE him or hate him as you choose, but accept, Branville McCartney, leader of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) and candidate for Bamboo Town, is no political lightweight.

Two hunted after man killed in shooting

POLICE are searching for two men after a drive-by shooting claimed the life of a 36-year-old man. The victim was at Royal Palm Street and Allamander Lane when he was approached by a black two-door Honda Civic and

GAME OF THRONES: Kit Harington talks to the Big T

THE Big T got a chance to sit down with three leading actors from the award-winning HBO show “Game of Thrones” as they wrapped up their tour of the region to promote the second season. In a Tribune exclusive three-part interview series, find out what is in store for the new season and get up close and personal with Kit Harington (Jon Snow), Alfie Allen (Theon Greyjoy) and Richard Madden (Robb Stark).

Five questioned over shooting, stabbing incident

Police are questioning five males in connection with a stabbing and shooting incident that has left a 25-year-old male of Yellow Elder Gardens in hospital.

‘FNM thug threw rock at gran’

A 61-YEAR-OLD grandmother was hit in the eye by a rock that her daughter claims was thrown by a thug in an FNM t-shirt.

Game of Thrones special interview in Saturday's Big T

GET up close and personal with the stars of the award-winning HBO show “Game of Thrones” in an exclusive three-part interview series which starts this Saturday in The Big T.

DNA takes exception to Tribune headline

The DNA has taken exception to The Tribune’s Friday headline with a press statement issued yesterday morning.

Host of events to mark Earth Day in Eleuthera

A HOST of events are taking place this weekend in Eleuthera to celebrate Earth Day.

Money isn't everything on the declarations - sometimes it's all about the plants

FOLLOWING each Nomination Day, when hopefuls become official general election candidates, the public eagerly anticipates the publication of their financial assets.

Nottage: PM refused to address people

BAIN and Grants Town candidate Dr Bernard Nottage said Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham let the people of the constituency down when he failed to address them during a walkabout on Wednesday.

Graffiti assault on dog

HUNDREDS of angry Bahamians vented on social media networks yesterday, after a photo of a dog spray painted with letters "FNM" went viral.

FNM 'three weeks from making history'

AN ELECTION win for the FNM would tie the PLP's record since independence, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham pointed out last night.

Officers accused of $32,000 theft

TWO Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers have denied stealing $32,000 worth of machinery from their agency's base.

Prison staff protest

MORE than 50 prison officers demonstrated in front of Her Majesty's Prison yesterday morning blocking Minister of National Security Tommy Turnquest from leaving the compound before speaking with them.

Billionaire court case is annulled

ATTORNEY General John Delaney exerted his constitutional powers yesterday when he ordered an annulment of a multi-billionaire's private prosecution of eight persons in Magistrate's Court.

Bahamas run 'into the ground' by FNM and PLP

THE FNM and the PLP have governed the Bahamas "into the ground" through fiscal recklessness and irresponsibility, DNA leader Branville McCartney said.

Call for government to come clean on oil

AS THE expiration of Bahamas Petroleum Company's permits to drill for oil in the Bahamas draws near, the DNA is again calling on the government to come clean on the future of the deal.

Thanks for cancer donations - more needed

WE WANT to thank those who over the past several weeks have so generously donated to the campaign to raise funds for a much-needed up-to-date digital mammogram machine for the Princess Margaret Hospital. The $500,000 fund-raising goal was achieved and the machine is now on its way.

Fixed date for vote

HOW is it that no one in the PLP ever dared to broach such a subject when LOP was PM for twenty-five years? Had such a new system been in place, LOP would not have been returned after the first election because he called, I believe, two elections shortly thereafter - one a year later after the first, and another shortly after that...

Exchange control

RECENT comments arising from a public discussion at COB on Exchange Control again raises inaccurate information as to the reasonably expected consequences of the lifting of Exchange Control.

Rallies more important than the message

I HAVE attended the rallies of the Free National Movement (FNM), the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and the street meetings of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA). All of these political parties have one quest; to be the next government of the Bahamas.

'Late-again PLP criticised for lacking a manifesto

DESPITE continuing to talk and make promises, opposition leader Perry Christie has still not released his five-year platform, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham pointed out.

Promise of upgrades for Family Islands

ADDRESSING hundreds of FNM supporters at a rally in Lower Bogue, Eleuthera, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham pledged to continue to upgrade infrastructure in the Family Islands to facilitate both domestic and foreign investment.

Political elite is a millionaires' club

BISHOP Simeon Hall hit out at the country's entire political class yesterday following the disclosure of candidates' assets.

FNM candidate demands apology from Shane Gibson

POLITICAL newcomer Winsome Miller has demanded an apology from her rival, veteran MP Shane Gibson, after PLP supporters simulated the killing of a straw "FNM supporter" on nomination day.

Churchill Square to be opened today

FREEPORT - Today's official opening ceremony for the transformed Churchill Square will mark the successful completion of the Downtown Turnaround Project spearheaded by the Grand Bahama Port Authority.

Contract awarded for museum restoration

THE government has awarded a contract for $1,174,127 to Coastline Construction and Development to restore Pompey Museum.

$40m insurer 'outperforming market by considerable way'

ROYALSTAR Assurance's managing director yesterday told Tribune Business the general insurer had "outperformed everyone in the market by a considerable way" over the past nine years, although $1.4 million in net Hurricane Irene claims dropped its 2011 total comprehensive income by 15.7 per cent.

Atlantis occupancies up 6% points for Q1

ATLANTIS' occupancy levels were up by 6 per cent year-over-year "across the board" for the 2012 first quarter, Tribune Business was told yesterday, with the summer months set to be the recovery "proof in the pudding".

Revised Kerzner deal 'imminent'

A "CONSORTIUM" of lenders, rather than Brookfield Asset Management by itself, was last night said to be on course to "imminently" take over ownership of Kerzner International's Paradise Island resort, previous dissent from one of the 'middle' creditors having been quelled.

Ex-City Markets workersget $189k sale injunction

A GROUP of 10 former City Markets employees have obtained an injunction in the Supreme Court prohibiting the disposal of funds or assets worth $189,000 from the supermarket chain's pending sale to Super Value, according to court documents obtained by Tribune Business.

Bahamas carrier: 'More and more difficult' to get reinsurer backing

A LEADING Bahamian general insurer yesterday said it was "becoming more and more difficult" to attract reinsurance support for this market, although a reduction in competitive pressures meant this might ease somewhat.

Oil explorer tight-lipped on PM remarks

SENIOR officials at the Bahamas Petroleum Company were tight-lipped yesterday, following remarks by Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham that, if re-elected to office, the Free National Movement (FNM) would not permit oil drilling and exploration in Bahamian waters.

Making the transition from executive to entrepreneur

I CAME across the less-used term of Intrapreneur on TechCrunch the other day, and it certainly set me thinking. As might be expected when you think of it, Intrapreneurs work in larger organisations, where they spearhead projects such as new product lines and branches. This is, in fact, exactly what entrepreneurs do, too.

Agency to lower smallbusiness risk profiles

THE proposed agency to facilitate Bahamian small and medium-sized businesses will help to reduce their risk profiles, according to minister of state for finance, Zhivargo Laing, who said this will ultimately allow them greater access to capital.

Union fury over City Markets severance

TRADE union executives representing City Markets line-staff said yesterday that the food store chain's former employees were all entitled to their severance packages having been "effectively terminated", telling Tribune Business that legal action may be taken.

Judo Nationals set for Xavier's

THE Bahamas Judo Federation (BJF) is scheduled to hold its annual Judo National Championship at Xavier's Lower School 11am Saturday. This year, according to BJF president D'Arcy Rahming, athletes (students) from five clubs and two islands are expected to

NPSA to 'play ball' with new and improved teams, facilities

THE sound of "play ball" will ring out Saturday night as the New Providence Softball Association (NPSA) kicks off its 2012 season under new management with an improvement to the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

BAISS volleyball season begins at SAC courts

THE Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) kicked off its final discipline for the 2011-12 calendar year with volleyball at the St Augustine's College courts. On Wednesday, the action got started in the senior boys division. They are

56 Bahamian millionaires target election wins

SOME of the Bahamas' wealthiest individuals, including 56 millionaires, are battling to become MPs in the General Election.

Rare chance for 'budding' soccer stars

BUDDING stars on the soccer pitch will have a rare opportunity to showcase their skills for pro scouts at home. Soccer player Happy Hall and his YESI organisation partnered with the Dayton Dutch Lions of the USL Pro

'Saving jobs is the priority, not paying compensation'

SAVING jobs not dishing out compensation is the priority in the talks over the future of City Market says its boss.

Cancer campaign hits $500,000 goal

WE'VE done it! The Tribune with the Princess Margaret Hospital has raised over $500,000 to purchase a new, much-needed mammogram machine, at PMH.

BCP wants dress code for tourists

AN enforced dress code for tourists in Nassau is one of the pledges by a party which is trying to get its message to the masses. The Bahamas Constitution Party believes it has a fai

Plan for new RBDF base revealed

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham last night revealed his government's plans to effect the largest upgrade to the Royal Bahamas Defence Force with the construction of a new base, expanded ports and 11 new vessels.

Confrontation on the election trail

POLITICAL candidates engaged in a war of words yesterday as Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham conducted a walkabout of an opposition stronghold yesterday.

Independent challenges his bamboo town rivals to debate

NDEPENDENT Bamboo Town candidate Craig Butler has challenged his opponents to a public debate to determine who is best fit to represent the constituency. Mr B

Police hold man in rape probe

AUTHORITIES in Grand Bahama are investigating the alleged rape and sexual assault of several young boys by a man, police confirmed yesterday.

Political leaders have to be more responsible

THE predictions are that this is going to be an "ugly" election. This need not be so if the leaders of the various political parties would in fact lead by example, not just talk about avoiding clashes, but do

No chance for Curry

The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is making plenty noise in Abaco nowadays. Opposition Leader Perry G Christie and Chairman Bradley Roberts are both convinced that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham will be toppled

Death penalty

With the murder rate predicated to surpass last year's to set a new record, I am baffled and confused as to why the government and the judiciary are still subjecting the citizens of this country to the "mercies" of the

Minister stating obvious

SUCH a profound and insightful statement from our Minister from the dwarf planet Pluto - something like saying "flames are due to fires". Als

Party stages march against crime

Party stages march against crime By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net "MURDER Record Rate, vote DNA!" was the chant heard by motorists and pedestrians yesterday as members of the Democratic National Alliance marched nearly

Freed from prison to be gunned down

THE COUNTRY'S latest murder victim was recently released from Her Majesty's Prison and has been "in an out of the system" for many years, police confirmed yesterday.

Land reform pledge for Grand Bahama

DNA Leader Branville McCartney is calling for land reform in the Bahamas.

PM: Why no PLP apology over effigy?

OUTRAGE continued yesterday over photographs depicting PLP supporters driving over an effigy of an FNM supporter.

Fred Mitchell hits back at PM for 'insulting' Christie

FRED Mitchell, the PLP candidate for Fox Hill, chastised Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham yesterday for "insulting" the PLP and its leader.

DNA promise Marco's Law register for sex offenders

A PROPOSED bill to set up a sex offenders' register would be introduced under a DNA government. The promise to introduce the bill, know

On the campaign trail in Nassau Village

WHEN I turned up for the interview at the Nassau Village Constituency Office of Free National Movement candidate (FNM) Basil J Moss, I was surprised to find a shell of an office, with no furniture, no electricity

Baseball in the military

At a baseball powerhouse in Gainesville, Florida, a pair of Bahamian players are making key contributions to their team's run at a state championship playoff spot as t

Rugby: Battle for bragging rights between Nassau and Grand Bahama at month end

THE battle for nationwide bragging rights on the rugby pitch will again be decided in an inter-island rivalry bet

Rotary golf event moved due to election

A ROTARY club has rescheduled its fundraising golf tournament because of the General Election on May 7.

Symonette 'partner' in $15m hotel expansion

A major US-based resort developer/operator yesterday confirmed it had teamed up with Craig Symonette, brother of Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette, to expand an Eleuthera hotel via a $15 million first phase investment.

AML bracing for 10-15% rise in freight costs

A BISX-listed food retail group yesterday warned it had budgeted for freight costs to increase by 10-15 per cent in 2012, telling Tribune Business it was also being held back by price controls that were "not needed in this day and age".

AML aims to 'double' its net profit margin

AML Foods is aiming to double net profit margins to 4 per cent, its chief executive telling Tribune Business yesterday that it was targeting year-over-year top-line growth of 16.4 per cent to $115 million for its current financial year.

Bahamas First suffers $6.5m bottom line hit

BAHAMAS First Holdings' (BFH) chief executive yesterday expressed concern about the "unprecedented" level of fire claims the general insurance group incurred in 2011, telling Tribune Business that together with Hurricane Irene-related losses these produced a collective $6.5 million bottom line hit.

City Markets staff 'want to have cake and eat it, too'

CITY Markets principal, Mark Finlayson, in addressing employee concerns over compensation packages, yesterday said the "primary" issue in negotiating the sale of the five-store chain was saving jobs, telling Tribune Business the situation was different in Freeport where severance payments would have to be made.

Arawak Port gets BISX listing nod

THE Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) last night announced that the listing application submitted by the Arawak Port Development Company had been formally approved by its Listing Committee, with the firm added to those listed on the exchange.

Eliminate the red eyes picture sore

YOU have lined up the group in a great location, and you have taken a ton of fabulous pictures. Then you browse through the camera and notice that half of them have bright red glowing eyes.

Business goes on 'defensive' over URCA dispute

A GRAND Bahama businessman said yesterday that he was going on the "defensive", after the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) issued an order prohbiting the use of his assigned radio spectrum. He told Tribune Business he would wait for the communications regulator to take him to court.

E-commerce firm targets 200-250k clients in a year

A BAHAMIAN E-Commerce company is aiming to attract 200,000-250,000 persons to its electronic and mobile commerce market within the next 12 months, a company executive said yesterday, telling Tribune Business it would have 25 retail outlets by the end of May 2012 part of its phased roll-out.

How to be like the ant

THE ANT keeps the winter in mind, so it collects all the food it can during the summer.

Organ recital to benefit ministry

OFFERING his musical talents through a piano recital performance, organist Preston Ferguson promises to give patrons an evening to remember on Thursday April 26.

Easter at the Nazareth Centre

AS everyone around the nation celebrated Easter traditionally or in their own special way, the management and staff of the Medical Pavilion Bahamas wanted to ensure that the children of the Nazareth Centre located in Millennium Gardens, were also included in the celebration of Easter.

The model of a man

From March 21-25, the Anglican Church Men in the Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands gathered for the 39th Conference on Long Island.

The world prays for us

IN 2015, the whole world will pray for us. At least, all those involved in the World Day of Prayer, who will focus on our small but great nation to celebrate with us and intercede for us. Each year a different country is chosen and now it is our turn. The spotlight is on us.

From feelings to faith

THE sun was so bright that it peeked through the blinds that hanged from the window. A brand new day had emerged and it had so many possibilities. The beauty of the day was so forceful it could not be ignored.

Secular DJ makes gospel debut

ORGANISERS of the "Jesus In The Park" event say they will be making the streets "come alive" this Friday. Christian followers are invited to the social outreach event that will be hosted by DJ Godson, also known as DJ Slyfox, in association with Mr J Int'l and Entertainment, at Christie Park.

Exclusive Game of Thrones interviews start in Saturday's Big T

GET up close and personal with the stars of the award-winning HBO show "Game of Thrones" in an exclusive three-part interview series which starts this Saturday in The Big T.

RAW VIDEO: Nomination day in Bamboo Town

Footage from Bamboo Town Tuesday, as candidates seal their nomination bid for the constituency.

Parties decry nomination day antics

NOMINATION day was marred by claims of violence and aggression, as photos surfaced of PLPs driving over an effigy of an FNM, while the opposition accused someone on the government's side of injuring an elderly supporter. Acco

Drug lord must pay $250,000

ACCUSED drug lord Melvin Maycock Sr had his three year sentence upheld, but was fined an additional $250,000 by the appellate court after it dismissed his appeal to overrule a drug possession conviction for $1.2 million worth of marijuana.

Election 2012: The contenders

FOR the eighth consecutive and final time, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham officially became the candidate for the Free National Movement for the North Abaco constituency early yesterday morning.

Ingraham claims PLP is ashamed of Perry Christie

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham yesterday claimed the PLP was ashamed of Perry Christie and no longer wanted him as their party leader.

PLP act against FNM effigy backfires

YESTERDAY afternoon, the PLP issued a statement condemning an attack earlier in the day on an elderly lady — a PLP supporter in the Farm Road constituency — “allegedly by male supporters of the Free National Movement.”

Graduation dreams crushed

I AM a long standing resident of the Exuma community, and I am writing to express my concern about the recent discussion and the decision to disallow 27 graduating students of the local high school, Livingston N Coakley, to participate in their commencement ceremony. I do understand that this decision is meant to punish these students for disobeying school rules, but must we be so harsh?

Trade union unrest

IT IS very clear to many of us that the unions' unrest is politically directed and who is the mastermind behind it...He has done it before and is seeking to do it again to gain brownie points for the forthcoming elections.

A message to strikers

I AM sitting on a plane waiting to take off and we are already over an hour late...I can see the runway and no plane has taken off or landed for the last 10 minutes. What does that tell you!

The Tribune got election date first

I WOULD like to congratulate the journalists and the Editor at The Tribune newspaper for being the first to report that the election date has been set for May 7.

Candidate misses out over $400 deposit

ALL prospective candidates for Fort Charlotte but one were successfully nominated yesterday.

DNA hopeful proving a challenge for FNM in Montagu

TRADITIONALLY a strong FNM seat, some observers feel the race for Montagu could be a little closer this election due to the popularity of the DNA's Ben Albury and the fact that governing party candidate Richard Lightbourne is new to front-line politics.

Elizabeth could prove to be a critical battleground

NOMINATIONS for the Elizabeth constituency took place yesterday at Thelma Gibson Primary School with the PLP's Ryan Pinder, the FNM's Senator Duane Sands and the DNA's Charlene Paul set to face off against each other.

Rivals to take on Christie

THREE contenders were officially nominated for the Centreville seat yesterday.

Historic document opens a window onto the past

A "DELIGHTFUL DOCUMENT" published by the Bahamas Historical Society in 1968 opened a fascinating window on a long-lost age. Other than history buffs, few are familiar with this publication today, but it offers a refreshing alternative to the bilious political circuses we have to put up with now.

Customs staff end strike ahead of tribunal

THE Customs and Immigration strike ends today and their trade dispute will be heard and tried before the Industrial Tribunal this week, according to their attorney.

City Market workers want answers on severance pay

CITY Market employees are demanding to be told when their severance packages will be paid after a group of them were turned away from the company's main office.

Seventeen candidates officially nominated in Grand Bahama

FREEPORT - A total 17 candidates on Grand Bahama were officially nominated to contest five of the 38 seats in the 2012 general elections.

BEC slashes accounts receivables by $14m

THE Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) has cut its accounts receivables by $14 million over the past six months since September 2011 to a current $129 million, its executive chairman told Tribune Business yesterday.

Supreme Court freezes assets in $160m 'fraud'

THE Supreme Court has been busy over the last four months issuing asset freeze and document production Orders relating to an alleged $160 million international fraud, which has involved - albeit unwittingly - a Bahamian-domiciled investment fund and accounts at a well-known international bank.

Merchant market can 'revolutionise' local economy

THE Bahamas Trade Commission's co-chair yesterday threw his backing behind the proposed AsiaMart merchant emporium in Freeport, telling Tribune Business it could "revolutionise" the Bahamian economy and create "astronomical" benefits for local retailers, manufacturers and other entrepreneurs.

AsiaMart clients to 'take up 75%' of GB hotel capacity

AsiaMart clients to 'take up 75%' of GB hotel capacity By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor The proposed merchant trade market for Freeport will "take up" 75 per cent of Grand Bahama's existing hotel room inventory, one of its directors implying it

Airline 'holding back' on Florida

WESTERN Air's chief executive yesterday said the airline was "holding back" on plans to move into the saturated Florida aviation market, telling Tribune Business the carrier was operating at 78 per cent load factors domestically.

Aviation promoted to Florida's pilots

BAHAMIAN student, Marie Irene Ajero, presents an artistic hand painted aviation chock to the president of the Florida Air Museum, John Burton, at the recent Sun N' Fun Aviation Show in Lakeland, Florida.

Regulator links with BFSB for insurance conference

THE Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) and the Insurance Commission of the Bahamas (ICB) are in Philadelphia this week attending a major global insurance conferencem, RIMS 2012.

Getting a direct client response

MY son could recognise the Golden Arches of McDonald's from the time he was two.

IMF's 2.5% Bahamas growth is 'a stretch'

THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation's (BCCEC) chairman yesterday said it would "really be a stretch" for the Bahamian economy to achieve the newly-released International Monetary Fund's (IMF) projected 2.5 per cent GDP growth rate for 2012, unless it and the Government knew something 'outsiders' did not.

$12m NIB pensions to increase by 4.6%

THE National Insurance Board (NIB) pays out about $12 million monthly in long-term pensions, its director, Algernon Cargill, saying yesterday that their 4.6 per cent increase to come in July was "good news" for recipients.

Giants to defend title

Giants to defend title By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net Having secured their third consecutive New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) championship title, the Commonwealth Bank Giants are now looking forward to duplic

Macedonia, St Mark's still undefeated

WITH just two more weeks left in the regular season in the Baptist Sports Council's 2012 Basketball League, there are only two teams still undefeated. Both Macedonia and St Mark's top the men's A and B divisions respectively with perfect 3-0 win-loss reco

Hopeless cries of COB art students

Art students at the College of the Bahamas have "basically lost faith" in the academic institution, claiming the administration parades the department like "a prize trophy" when convenient, while turning its back to the long-standing cries of students.

Bahamian legend honoured in 'pieces of eight'

FOR six years Bahamian artist Je'Rome Miller has donated proceeds from his annual exhibit to the Winston V Saunders Memorial Scholarship Fund at the College of the Bahamas.

Art exhibit uplifts young men

Last fall, the Public Treasury Art Programme (PTAP) celebrated the launch of its new art initiative, which transformed the foyers of the Public Treasury building into gallery space to showcase original art by professional and emerging artists.

Feud erupts after 'Karaoke King' quits

MARIO'S Bowling and Entertainment Palace fired back at popular entertainer Demetrius "King of Karaoke" Smith over claims of discrimination.

Princess Cay Vendors Tip the Texture Painting Scales

Two south Eleuthera vendors Mary Whylly and Juneninka Mackey signed up for the island's Texture Painting Class in Tarpum Bay Eleuthera. Their goal was to diversify and refine the souvenir and craft products they were offering to their customers on the cay.

The papaya fruit fly

Papaya is a very popular fruit that is grown in most backyards in The Bahamas.

And the "Save Card" goes To: Jessica Sanchez

AMERICAN IDOL fans are still in a state of a shock due to the drama that unfolded during the elimination episode last week. Fan and judge favorite Jessica Sanchez found herself being voted off the show for receiving the lowest number of votes for the week.

It's all for the show, mostly

IN THIS year's general election, political campaigns are constantly being energized and kept alive, not by the speakers alone, but by the support from local musicians. Singing their hit songs, artists are transforming rallies into mini concerts every chance they get. For many artists, it is just business, but not all.

Man questioned over latest murder

POLICE are questioning a 20-year-old man in connection with the country's latest murder.

Nomination Day: As it happened

FLAGS, prayers and motorcades – it can only be nomination day. With the election now less than three weeks away, nominations had to be handed in between 9am and noon yesterday.

Woman charged over murder of husband

A WOMAN accused of shooting and killing her Defence Force husband nearly two years ago was informed of her trial date yesterday.

Staff on strike to be prosecuted

CUSTOMS and Immigrations officers who failed to return to work "will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law", Labour Minister Dion Foulkes said yesterday.

Police officers charged in court

TWO police officers were charged yesterday in connection with the hospitalisation of a man they allegedly pushed out of a moving police car two months ago.

Gun safety warning after boy's shooting

WHILE police are still investigating the accidental shooting death of a 12-year-old boy, they are appealing to licensed fire arm owners to ensure the security of their weapons.

Parties using phone polls

POLITICAL parties are continuing their use of polling to gather information concerning who voters are more likely to support in the lead up to the 2012 general election.

Pair in court over robbery and murder

FREEPORT - Two young men were arraigned on murder and armed robbery charges in Freeport Magistrate's Court yesterday.

Elderly woman's body found in city harbour

THE BODY of an elderly woman was found floating in Nassau Harbour early yesterday morning.

An open letter to Cable Bahamas

It was some years ago when a public outcry was made pertaining to the vulgarity on BET and eventually it was removed from the cable network.

Marital rape bill is a ploy

WHAT some people will do to get a vote never ceases to amaze me! It is now being said that Bran McCartney has been "black listed" because he opposes the Marital Rape Law. Join the club McCartney, I too do not believe in passing laws that cannot be enforced.

Striking unionists refuse to return to work

A FEW immigration officers have dribbled back to work with sick slips, claims of being away on vacation, or joining the picket line only on their days off to try to escape the consequences of participation in the immigration-customs strike at the airport. The airport workers walked off the job on April 5.

Outreach 'too little, too late'

THE Progressive Liberal Party called it "incredible" that the FNM waited until just days before the general election to use social intervention as a tool in the fight against crime.

Vandals at the gate

CAMPAIGN silliness is now in full swing with both major parties hurling claims of vandalism at each other.

DNA blames 'red splash of murder' on FNM

DNA CANDIDATE for Bain and Grants Town Rodney Moncur is blaming Minister of National Security Tommy Turnquest for the record levels of violent crime.

Pledge to create safety net for lost jobs and homes

FREEPORT - PLP leader Perry Christie said his party will create a safety net to prevent Bahamians losing their homes or jobs.

Island 'has incredible potential'

THE FNM's Michael Pintard told Cat Islanders their community has incredible potential for economic development, especially in agriculture and food processing.

FNM hits back at 10-point list

THE governing FNM has responded to the 10-point list of complaints about the economy issued by the PLP, calling them "false, hypocritical attacks that distort and even ignore the FNM's record"

PM unveils agenda for Grand Bahama

FREEPORT - Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham unveiled the FNM's "Recovery and Growth Agenda for Grand Bahama", which he said will restore and strengthen the island's economy.

Woman power at the polls

IN THE 50th year of women's suffrage, Bahamian women will hold the power at the polls.

Meet a new generation of police officers

NINETY-ONE new recruits were sworn in at Police Headquarters yesterday in what the government said was a fulfillment of Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham's pledge to step up the fight against crime.

Water cut-off/fees battle tears apart resort project

A FURIOUS battle between several homeowners and the developer at an Exuma-based real estate/tourism development has broken out, Tribune Business can reveal, with the Water & Sewerage Corporation caught in the middle over claims its failure to provide an alternative water supply is "damaging the image of the Bahamas" in investor eyes.

Project's $400m 'game changer'

THE proposed trade market for Freeport is projected to have an annual $400 million economic impact and create between 6,000-8,000 total jobs, one of its directors telling Tribune Business yesterday that it would be a "game changer for the entire Bahamas".

$50-$60m resort project's 'humungous advantage'

AN Eleuthera-based resort project's chairman yesterday said between $50-$60 million had been invested in its build-out over the past seven-eight years, telling Tribune Business the absence of any bank debt had given it "a humungous advantage".

TOURISM BODY'S GROWTH GOAL 'AT BOTTOM OF RANGE'

THE World Travel and Tourism Council's (WTTC) growth projections for the Bahamian tourism industry over the next decade are towards "the bottom" of the likely expansion range, the minister of tourism and aviation said yesterday, adding that this nation had "some ways to go" to reach iots potential.

Wilson says $11m bond ruling 'not devastating'

COTTON Bay's chairman yesterday said the Supreme Court verdict that rejected its $11 million performance bond claim against CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) would "not be devastating" for the project, adding that he had emerged with his personal reputation intact.

Customs union adviser in call for 'urgency'

ATTORNEY Obie Ferguson yesterday said the decision by Labour minister Dion Foulkes to simply refer the dispute involving the Bahamas Customs, Immigration and Allied Workers Union (BCIAWU) to the Industrial Tribunal was "not adequate", telling Tribune Business the matter also needed to be expedited given its sensitivity.

Giants 3-peat

The Commonwealth Bank Giants came from a 2-0 deficit to sweep the MailBoat Cybots in the final three games and three-peat as the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) champions.

Pinder opens outdoor season with 2nd in 200

FRESH off his silver medal performance at the IAAF World Indoor Championships, Demetrius Pinder opened his outdoor season with a second place finish in the men's 200 metres at the Miami Hurricane Alumni Invitational.

COB Caribs women 5th, men place 10th

THE College of The Bahamas' track and field team competed in the Bethune Cookman University Invitational - its third intercollegiate competition of the spring semester - over the weekend.

YESI trials all set for April 28

YOUTH soccer players around the country will receive a unique opportunity to showcase their skills for a professional club and vie for a spot on the roster in one of several leagues.

Sir Durward christens 'One Bahamas'

LOCAL sloop sailing, "sculling" and boat building received a boost to its profile thanks to the efforts of a local sporting icon.

Living legend honour for 21 women

TWENTY-ONE trailblazing women will be presented flowers while they are still around to smell them, at the Zonta Club of New Providence's Living Legends Gala Ball.

A party fit for royalty: 'Mama Dee Dee'

HORNS blew as onlookers waved at the custom-fitted horse and carriage carrying Rachel Elizabeth Jennings down the streets of Nassau, Sunday. The fanfare celebrated the 100th birthday of the Bahamian matriarch known as "Mama Dee Dee".

Candidates pander for female votes

POLITICAL parties are parading their female candidates around town trying to appeal to women voters, who this year comprise the large majority of voters.

Tech toy helps autistic child communicate

NINE year-old Christof Tynes uses an iPad application to communicate with his parents. When he is not using his iPad, he tries to murmur words or points to different objects.

Murdered man identified

POLICE have today named a man who was gunned down in Kemp Road on Saturday.

Nomination Day latest

Follow the latest news . . .

Huge fire on East Street South

Fire services had to be called . . .

FNM: Upcoming campaign events

Tuesday, April 17th Nomination Day . . .

Bank's $11m bond claim win over Wilson-chaired project

A FRANKLYN Wilson-chaired Eleuthera resort development has seen its efforts to enforce $11 million worth of performance bonds rejected by the Supreme Court, which ruled that there was a "pre-ponderance of evidence" to show they were not valid and binding against FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas).

Team Bahamas second overall with 49 medals

A silver-medal performance by the boys 15-17 200 metre relay team of Evante Gibson, Dustin Tynes, Keith Lloyd and T'Auren Moss brought the curtains down last night on the BTC 2012 Carifta Sw

Murdered woman is identified

POLICE identified the body found badly beaten off West Bay Street early Thursday morning as that of 23-year-old Emanuela Augustin of Coral Harbour.

Boy, 12, killed in gun accident

AN ACCIDENTAL shooting claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy and wounded his younger brother yesterday. Last night, police were tightlipped over the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting at the children's home in Na

Second victim dies after nightclub shooting

THE deadly nightclub shooting earlier this month has claimed another life.

'Smuggle drugs or be executed'

A BAHAMIAN found wandering on a South Florida beach told police he was forced to smuggle drugs into the US by a man who threatened to kill him if he refused. According to a report in

Police on the streets

THIS admirable strategy should be introduced slowly and very carefully, thus permitting many of the senior staff to adapt gradually to the realities of actually fighting crime rather than paperwork.

$1m to help young and beat crime

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham yesterday released $1 million to select social outreach programmes across the country making good on last year's anti-cri

Election evokes thoughts of The Last Battle

The upcoming general election reminds me of the final showdown in C S Lewis’ The Last Battle when Aslan assembles together the millions of creatures of Narnia for judgment after Father Time finally awoke from his sleep.

Decision time for striking unionists

Decision time for striking unionists A VISITOR arriving at Lynden Pindling International Airport over the weekend asked a Bahamian if the airport strike was still on. The Bahamian, feigning ignorance, asked: "What strike?" The visitor replied that he had

PM pledges to introduce health insurance scheme

FREEPORT - Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham promises to introduce National Catastrophic Health Insurance if the FNM is re-elected to office.

Man gunned down

POLICE are calling on anyone with information regarding a deadly shooting over the weekend to come forward immediately. The victim, a 25-year-old Nassau East man, was shot

Who will be next deputy for FNM?

TWO FNM MPs vying for seats in the May 7 general elections spoke about a key leadership position that will become vacant should the FNM retain governan

Christie calls Ingraham 'worst ever PM'

PLP leader Perry Christie claimed Hubert Ingraham is “the worst prime minister” the country has ever had.

DNA: Economy suffering from double dependency

THE Bahamian economy is suffering from "double dependency syndrome" according to DNA leader Branville McCartney.

Bahamian movies to be entered into film festival

Bahamian movies to be entered into film festival TWO short films produced by media majors at the College of the Bahamas will be entered into an international film festival in October. The films, "En Route" and "Last Week Tuesday", tied for first place at

Arts students stage protest

SENIOR officials at the College of the Bahamas were blindsided last week by an "all black" student protest during the annual opening of the Colours of Har

Dwayne defends chef title

Dwayne defends chef title ASPIRING chef Dwayne Sinclair of Temple Christian High School once again emerged as the winner of the National All-Island Senior Young Chef competition. He also placed first in the preliminary stages at the New Providence senior

Getting the relationship right with China

CHINA'S presence in the Caribbean is becoming a matter of increasing debate if not concern as more Chinese businesses open in Caribbean towns and villages crowding out locals, and Chinese-funded projects import a majority of Chinese workers at a time of high unemployment in Caribbean countries.

Tributes paid for 100th birthday celebration

GOVERNOR General Sir Arthur Foulkes presented Rachel Elizabeth Jennings with a bouquet of flowers in honour of her 100th birthday during a visit to Government House on April 13.

Giants even series 2-2

THE Commonwealth Bank Giants came from the brink of elimination in two straight games against the MailBoat Cybots and now the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) men's best-of-five

Customs staff ignore minister's demand to return to work

FOLLOWING the Minister of Labour's demand to return to work or face consequences, customs and immigration officers are still on strike.

Key CLICO asset in $13.27m deal

CLICO (Bahamas) liquidator has agreed a $13.267 million deal to sell one-third of the remaining land at the insolvent insurer's main asset, having enticed back a former prospective purchaser who pulled out of a much larger deal.

BTC warns on 'up to 60%' price cuts

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has warned that preliminary efficiency targets set for it by the industry regulator could force it to reduce wholesale prices "by up to 60 per cent", something that would "substantially damage" its ability to finance existing operations and investment in new services.

Hotel chief 'confident' nation closing on 2m stopovers before 2022

THE Bahamas Hotel Association's (BHA) president is "confident" this nation will be approaching the two million stopover visitor mark before 2022, believing a study on the industry's economic impact has underestimated the $2.6 billion Baha Mar project's post-2014 impact.

Wednesday targeted for City Market close

CITY Markets principal has told Tribune Business that a deal to sell the supermarket chain's remaining four stores to Super Value had been finalised, adding that attorneys still sorting out the paperwork had suggested it might close on Wednesday.

Checking worker negative attitudes

MOST employers will admit that finding employees with a positive attitude is a most difficult thing to do.

A voter's manifesto

WITH elections three weeks away and three political parties that apparently have yet to formulate, much less articulate, any new or credible plan for Bahamian development or growth in 21st century (and no, planning to beg more rich people for more money to buy up more of our precious archipelago does not count), I think it's time for the average Bahamian, the voter, to exercise her democratic right and put down in print what will or will not get her vote.

Boy, 12, killed, his brother injured after shooting incident

Police are investigating a shooting incident that has left an 11-year-old boy in stable condition in hospital and his 12-year-old brother dead.

Carifta Swimming: Bahamas on track to bypass last year's total

THE Bahamas inched closer to the top of the standings and was set to surpass last year's medal haul at the close of Saturday's competition at the BTC 2012 Carifta Swimming Championships.

Minister praises athletes ahead of Carifta Swimming Championship

THE road to crowning the 2012 BTC Carifta Swimming Championship champions was started on Thursday night at the Betty Kelly Kenning National Swim Complex.

Murder hunt begins as woman’s body found

THE BADLY beaten body of a partially clothed woman was discovered off West Bay Street early yesterday morning bringing the country’s murder count to 36 for the year.

Bran: I Will step aside if i lose

DNA leader and Bamboo Town incumbent Branville McCartney said he will step aside as party leader if not re-elected.

City Dump fire expected to be completely extinguished by weekend

City Dump fire expected to be completely extinguished by weekend FIRE OFFICIALS don't expect the fire at the City Dump to be completely extinguished until the weekend, The Tribune can reveal. While the smoke and fumes from the burning dump have lessened

13 face court over drug charges

13 face court over drug charges THIRTEEN men appeared in court yesterday to face drug charges. All pleaded not guilty except for one man, who claimed the others had nothing to do with the incident. They all appeared before Magistrate Carolita Bethell on

Police identify Grand Bahama murder victim

FREEPORT - Police have released the identity of the man shot and killed at Garden Villas on Sunday.

12 indians captured by police

TWELVE Indian men are in police custody today after being discovered in Inagua on Wednesday.

Gun Point base to open

TOMMY Turnquest recently announced that Gun Point, a new defence force base in the Ragged Islands, would open later this year. I read this with much anticipation and think this is a step in the right direction. It is also important to note that this area is one of the richest fishing grounds in the Bahamas.

Candidate sets out philosophy

Thank you for your kind complimentary letter published in The Tribune Wednesday, April 11 under the heading: "Ben Albury should be commended."

Unionists who put self before country

Unionists who put self before count ON TUESDAY Labour Minister Dion Foulkes, speaking with a Tribune reporter, seemed confused by striking Customs and Immigration employees. He said that all of the union's concerns had been discussed last month, and reso

Hundreds turn out for PLP rally

HUNDREDS of staunch Progressive Liberal Party supporters gathered at Arawak Cay on Wednesday night for the party's first mass rally ahead of the May 7, 2012 general elections.

DNA could be a game changer - even if they don't win a single seat

THE DNA will not win any seats at all, but could be a political "game changer" according to a veteran PLP.

DNA: We will work for all

DNA leader Branville McCartney said his party is committed to redefining the role of government if they are victorious at the polls.

Bran: FNM not serious about crime

THE FNM are not serious about crime, DNA leader Branville McCartney charged during a radio interview yesterday.

Stopover visitors to hit 1.88m by 2022

THE BAHAMIAN tourism industry's 2012 GDP contribution growth was yesterday forecast to exceed the next decade's average by hitting 3.1 per cent, with stopover arrivals projected to increase by around 500,000 over the next 10 years ti hit 1.883 million.

'Millions' to refit City Meat stores

Super Value’s president last night confirmed that capital expenditure “running into the millions” would be required to re-equip three of City Markets’ New Providence stores, telling Tribune Business that but for a “misunderstanding” related to government approvals the Cable Beach outlet could have been open this weekend.

Sign of the times

VOTERS out east are asking why the FNM seems to be the only party taking advantage of public spaces to boost their election campaign. PLP and DNA supporters say they're tired of seeing giant billboards bearing the faces of the FNM's Mo

$12m deal to create new hospital

THE National Insurance Board has signed a $12 million contract with Coastline Construction to create a new community hospital in Marsh Harbour. The signing and groundbreaking ceremony for the facility, scheduled for compl

'Change your habits to live a productive and healthy life'

BAHAMIANS must make "aggressive" changes to their behaviour and habits if they want to live productive, healthy lives, Minister of Health Dr Hubert Minnis said. Addressing the opening session of

University courses for Bahamians

FREEPORT - Local institute Terreve College signed an articulation agreement with a US university that will make a number of new courses available to

In tomorrow's BigT

AFTER being denied the opportunity to say her proper good-byes before Parliament was officially dissolved this week, St Cecilia MP and former Deputy Prime Minister Cynthia "Mother" Pratt spoke, pictured right, with The Big T about her

Super Value: $4 dividend beats others' 'cents return'

Super Value: $4 dividend beats others' 'cents return' By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor Super Value's president yesterday asserted that the 11-store supermarket chain was a public company, telling Tribune Business that the $4 per share dividend i

Team Bahamas third in points

Team Bahamas third in points By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net The Bahamas sits in third place in the point standings after the first day of competition in the BTC Carifta Swimming Championships at the Betty Kelly Kenning

Airline enjoys 70% Out Island load factors

WITH larger carriers in the Florida market "pulling back", Silver Airlines chief executive, Darrell Richardson, yesterday said the carrier was looking to "pick up the slack", telling Tribune Business it was recording just over 70 per cent load factors on its Family Islands service.

Construction '1/3 done' on Baha Mar

CONSTRUCTION work on Baha Mar's $2.6 billion Cable Beach redevelopment is "one-third complete", a senior executive said yesterday, after hitting a "significant milestone" with the installation of the last of 2,550 foundation pilings.

Lauren and her father Lionel are not your ordinary soccer players

IT'S very rare that you see a father and daughter combo head down the same path. But Lionel and Lauren Haven are not your o

Better to 'start-up' via an existing business

I HAVE enquiries from people every day who are thinking of going into business. Some are interested in my businesses for sale, while others are just fishing. The latter usually depart with a remark like: "Why should I pay to have a business" or "It's cheaper to start your own", or something similar. Some go on to succeed. Many more do not, because they overlook reality.

Abaco airport is '60-70% finished'

CONSTRUCTION on Marsh Harbour's airport terminal building is set to be finished in five months, the project's contractor yesterday saying work was currently between 60-70 per cent complete.

Bahamian realtor at top industry summit

BAHAMAS Realty's chief executive has attended an Orlando summit featuring some of the world's top real estate firms and professionals.

BTC to complete Abaco cell overhaul in mid-May

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is set to complete its wireless system overhaul on Abaco and the northern Bahamas by mid-May, giving customers improved cellular service, including faster speeds for downloads and browsing on smart phones.

Bahamas 'not very dynamic' on shareholder society move

THE Bahamas has not been a dynamic share owning society, a government minister said yesterday, urging more Bahamians to save and invest.

'This is a golden opportunity'

'This is a golden opportunity' By RENALDO DORSETT Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net AN initiative to help develop local sloop sailing and boat building is set to receive an endorsement from the Bahamas' most legendary name in the sport over the

Gatorade's junior athlete of the week

G-Series Performance: Just a week after her record- setting, Olympic qualifying performance at the Colina Carifta Trials in New Providence, Strachan took her talent on the roa

PM: You must pick a leader

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham last night reminded Bahamians that while they are voting for individual representatives, they are ultimately choosing a party and leader to guide the country for the next five years.

FNM releases its Manifesto

DURING a mass rally on RM Bailey Park last night leader of the FNM Hubert Ingraham released his party's 2012 Manifesto,

Christie: PM out of time

OPPOSITION leader Perry Christie last night said that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham was reluctant to call elections because he fears an FNM loss.

Man dead in night of terror

A "NIGHT of terror" left the childhood friend of a DNA candidate dead and a police inspector in hospital after a shooting. The police inspector is the brother of Assistant Superintendent

PM greets Carifta heroes

PRIME MINISTER Hubert Ingraham praised the efforts of the record-setting Carifta team yesterday.

PLP commit to fixed date for elections

PLP Deputy Leader Philip "Brave" Davis announced last evening at his party's mass rally on Arawak Cay that if the PLP is returned to office they will co

Two arrested over murder

FREEPORT - Two men are in police custody in connection with a recent armed robbery and murder on Grand Bahama. Police are still searching for a third ma

DNA repeat call for debate

ONCE again calling on Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham to engage in a public debate, the DNA claims after 25 years in political life Mr Ingraham has become "intoxi

Too late? Hard luck

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham said yesterday he is "not concerned" with the persons who were unable to register to vote on Tuesday because "tardiness is something he

Blaze at city dump still smoulders two days on

MORE than 20 firefighters worked throughout the night to extinguish a fire at the City Dump that has been burning for two days.

Full honours for officer's funeral

A FULL military funeral service was held yesterday for Assistant Superintendent of Police, Andrew George Deveaux Sr. Independence Drive, Robinson Road, and Soldier Road were all te

National security not compromised by strike

NATIONAL SECURITY is at risk! Unskilled Defence Force officers are manning immigration stations at the airport, exposing the country to "terrorists and smugglers!"

Why respect matters

WHAT does respect mean? Especially in the context of our being a "Christian nation", and the exercising of our democratic rights in this particular season.

Shame of charade

THE symbolic ringing of the bell which was anxiously anticipated by almost everyone finally happened on Tuesday. How could the government screw up such a routine procedure?

Simple solution?

IT'S SO exciting when an ingenious new solution is proposed for a vexing and persistent old problem.

Men charged over marijuana worth $500,000 due back in court today

NINE men charged on Tuesday in connection with the confiscation of nearly $500,000 worth of marijuana in Inagua will ret

On the campaign trail

POLLING stations across the country will be the main focus of international observers invited to monitor Election Day 2012.

Overcoming the party allegiance

I STARTED this campaign cycle annoyed by the fact that Perry Christie and Hubert Ingraham's faces were plastered all over my constituency, considering I live far from North Abaco and far from Centreville, where these men, both leaders of their respective political parties, are offering themselves as candidates in the May 7 general election.

Who you think will win the vote

AFTER the drama of Tuesday's election date announcement, Tribune242 readers were quick to give their predictions for May 7.

Murderer must wait for appeal

A CONVICTED murderer learned yesterday he must wait three weeks before his appeal can be heard. Damian Stuart, 28, will return to the Court of Appeal on Ma

PLP: FNM made recession worse

THE Progressive Liberal Party claims the Ingraham administration's issuance of contracts worth millions to foreign companies contributed to the ongoing recession.

Support group breaks silence over lupus

A NEW support group for those suffering with lupus has officially been launched in New Providence.

Judicial Review threat to resort development

A WELL-known QC yesterday said his clients were being left with no choice but to file Judicial Review proceedings to halt a proposed 16-room boutique resort project on Exuma's Stocking Island, arguing that the Government's failure to follow the Planning and Subdivision Act was "a glaring example of the challenges" faced with Family Island developments.

Human resources body outlines its yearly goals

THE Bahamas Human Resources Development Association's (BHRDA) new executive team is looking to tackle the main issues impacting the profession in the Bahamas.

Long Islanders celebrate Palm Sunday service

NORTH Long Islanders assembled in droves to celebrate the Palm Sunday Liturgy in Grand Style at their respective churches.

AML chair rejects 'blew it' claim on City Markets

AML Foods' chairman has rejected assertions that the BISX-listed food retail group "blew it" in its attempt to acquire City Markets' remaining New Providence stores, telling Tribune Business yesterday it had "not been formally told" its offer was rejected.

Love covers all offences

THE bible is filled with scriptures admonishing individuals to allow their lives to be controlled by love. Although this poses some difficulty, extending love when one has been offended is the life each Christian should reflect.

The background to photo editing

"HOW can I remove the white box or unwanted background from around my image?" This question has always been a popular pitch, both within and outside the graphic profession. Nevertheless, why would one choose to remove a background from a photo, especially if it marks a timeline of an occasion and tells a story?

City Markets sale on track for Friday close

CITY Markets' principal yesterday said the supermarket chain was still on course to conclude the sale of its remaining four New Providence stores to Super Value by Friday, adding that the details had been determined already between himself and Rupert Roberts.

Higgs & Johnson wins STEP Moot competition

THE Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Bahamas branch held its second annual Moot competition at the British Colonial Hilton Hotel on Thursday, March 29, 2012.

Attorney urges 'debt for equity' mortgage relief

A LEADING attorney yesterday proposed a 'debt-for-equity' style-swap as the solution to the Bahamas' existing mortgage woes, telling Tribune Business that to force commercial banks into losses and capital write-offs could endanger the nation's financial system and create even greater problems.

Realtor: '25% or fewer listings' impede MLS as activity gauge

A BAHAMIAN realtor yesterday said the industry's Multiple Listing System (MLS) was not the best indicator of market activity because it only featured "25 per cent or lower" of properties available for sale, telling Tribune Business it would take 10 years for it to list all available real estate.

$3.4bn Kerzner bidder hits out at ex-consultant

THE investment group that made a $3.4 billion offer to acquire Kerzner International in 2010 yesterday accused a former consultant of leaking documents related to the deal to Tribune Business, alleging that he was trying to embarrass both itself and the Atlantis owner.

The most holy season of all

The most holy season of all By Angela Palacious We have now emerged from our holy weekend and have begun the season of Easter which continues until pentecost. What a glorious time to celebrate the love and mercy of God. Maundy Thursday was the day to re

Saving lives with Christian counselling

BEFORE it assumed the role of providing counselling and support to the abused and emotionally scarred, the Christian Counselling Center was a place where cocaine addicts turned for help.

Real estate 'buyer's market' suffering 30-50% price drops

THE Bahamian real estate sector is a "buyer's market", realtors said yesterday, one telling Tribune Business that property values were seeing a downward trend of anywhere between 30-50 per cent.

Freedom celebration for Jewish community

THERE is hardly another day on the Jewish calendar as rich in tradition, custom, historical involvement and symbolism as the festival of Passover. For Passover marks the exodus from Egypt, and the birth of the Jewish nation.

Hundreds reborn in Easter water baptism

Some 100 candidates participated in the Easter Water Baptism

Bran: You can trust my leadership

DURING a press conference at DNA headquarters yesterday, party leader Branville McCartney said Bahamians can trust his leadership to move the country forward.

'Rising stars of the Bahamas'

Accolades continue to pour in for the Bahamas' record-setting Carifta track and field team which captured the country's attention with its best performance in mor

Pastors call on drug dealers to stop their war against society

FOLLOWING the National Security Minister's acknowledgment that the country's high murder rate stems primarily from drugs, New Covenant Baptist Church pastors are appealing to dealers to stop their "ongoing war" against society.

Top swimmers on the blocks this morning

THE Betty Kelly Kenning Aquatic Centre will buzz with the electricity of international competition today as the Bahamas will be competing against 22 oth

'Very young' water polo team gains experience

Coach Laszlo Borbely said he was pleased with the experience that Team Bahamas gained in the Carifta Water Polo Championships. He said they ha

Murder inquiry after woman's body found

POLICE have launched a murder inquiry after the body of a woman was found under a truck.

Shooting takes murder count to 34

THE murder count for 2012 now stands at 34 after a man was gunned down in New Providence.

Chaos after late rush to register for vote

CHAOS erupted in the Parliamentary Registration Department yesterday after more than 100 persons were told it was too late for them to register to vote for the May 7 general elections.

Container Port's 47% income fall

Container Port's 47% income fall By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor The Freeport Container Port suffered a dramatic 47 per cent operating income drop in 2011, its majority shareholder has revealed, due to a sharp decline in cargo transhipments to

Cable Bahamas says: 'Expect great things'

Cable Bahamas says: 'Expect great things' By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor Cable Bahamas yesterday warned Bahamians to "expect great things" in 2012, as it targets "significant upside" from its newly-launched fixed-line voice services that alrea

Airport processes 37,000 passengers

HOTEL and airport executives yesterday reported minimal fall-out from the strike initiated by Customs and Immigration officers during the Easter holiday weekend, with Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) processing some 37,000 travellers.

How to begin working on your dream (Part 2)

Most of us are conditioned to believe that hard work is the key to surviving the week. If we do not sweat, make up our faces or run around like a lost chicken day after day, we do not feel as though we have put in a good day's work.

CLICO's US recovery 'aims to exceed' $50m

CLICO (Bahamas) liquidation team is "hoping to exceed" original projections of a total $50 million recovery from the insolvent insurer's main asset, due to a combination of a "strengthening" Florida real estate market and revised selling strategy.

Brokers in 'slow down' from Customs' strike

CUSTOMS brokers said yesterday that their operations had "slowed down" due to the ongoing strike action by the Bahamas Customs, Immigration and Allied Workers Union (BCIAWU).

Spring Fruits

Spring Fruits By Garderner Jack We had a mild winter this year and spring fruits should be abundant. We still have both sour and sweet oranges on the tree with the delicious Temple tangor soon to be ready and grapefruits waiting for perfection. Limes a

New Entry on the verge of new album

WELL KNOWN Abaco musicians in the New Entry band are proud of their performance at the recently held Global Battle of the Bands, but most of all, they are proud of the success achieved so far on the Abaco musi

Postcards from the new-improved Nassau

Several years ago in this space, I offered this charming description of the city of Nassau... For over 20 years private sector leaders have been seeking to persuade successive governments t

Education hiring policies

Education hiring policies EDITOR, The Tribune. I would advise the Ministry of Education to review their hiring policies when it comes to the appointment of Principals and Senior Masters. It has come to my attention that when a school experiences a prob

Roadworks improving Nassau

DRIVING around Nassau, you get this gut feeling that upon completion of the road works, it's going to be a pleasure to drive anywhere in this city, regardless of what the naysayers and the opposition are saying.

Candidate turned crimefighter

AS I was catching up on my reading this week, I came across a story in which Ben Albury was cast in the light of a crime fighter. I have heard Mr Albury leading the oil exploration charge in recent weeks.

Bahamian winner travels VIP with Sean Paul

The road to meet Sean Paul is long and hilly and leads from Montego Bay (Mobay) airport to the hillside and beach-front villas of Sandals Grande Riviera in Ocho Rio

26,000 registered in Grand Bahama

FREEPORT - More than 26,000 Bahamians have registered to vote in Grand Bahama in the general elections. On Tuesday, the House of Assembly was dissol

Rise in infant mortality 'not PLP fault'

FORMER Minister of Health Dr Marcus Bethel released a statement yesterday claiming the rise in infant mortality during his tenure was not the fault of the PLP government of the day. According to Dr Bethel, who ser

Nine charged over seizure of marijuana worth $500,000

POLICE brought nine men - four Bahamian and five Haitian - to court yesterday to be charged in connection with the seizure of nearly $500,000 worth of marijuana.

Huge fire at city dump

FIREfighters spent yesterday attempting to extinguish a massive fire at the city dump. Fire Chief Walter Evans said more than three fire engines were dispatched to the scene after 10am to contain the blaze. Meanwhile, nearby reside

Homes for dogs sought

THE Bahamas Humane Society is filled to capacity and desperately seeking permanent homes for dogs. With 70 dogs and 120 puppies looking for homes, BHS president Kim Aranha said the shelter has reached "the point of no return". She s

Playing the numbers for marketing success

I RECENTLY ran an ad for a client in three different newspapers. One ad yielded two new clients, another 10 and the third, 13. After further testing I will be able to analyse the results and develop a budget for the client based on some hardcore numbers, rather than just my or the client's feelings.

Junka time is here: The evolution of the Junkanoo sound

MUSICIANS at the Junka Shack Studio are taking Junkanoo artistry in a new direction with the latest evolution in Bahamian music.

$102m plant in'75% Bahamian labour' pledge

THE developer of Baha Mar's $102.3 million Seawater District Cooling (SDC) system has pledged that Bahamian labour would perform 75 per cent of the construction work, accounting for a collective 80,000 man hours.

Arts festival heads to family islands

FOR 59 years the E Clement Bethel National Arts Festival has been a place for young Bahamians to showcase their skills in the performing arts. The festival has inspired s

Swimmers get set for Carifta at home

Team Bahamas' goal in this weekend's Carifta Swimming Championships is to improve on last year's haul of 39 medals and third place finish overall in poi

Special reception for Team Bahamas

ROYAL Bank of Canada (RBC) continues to show its support for the Bahamas Swimming Federation (BSF). RBC yesterday hosted Team Bahamas - members of the Ca

Another one bites the dust

AMERICAN Idol fans put him in the bottom three with contestants Hollie Cavanagh and Elise Testone, and American Idol judges voted him out: Contestant DeAndre Brackensick got no love last week, as AI judges opted again

Business broker 'turns down more than I can take on'

Business broker 'turns down more than I can take on' By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net A Bahamas-based business broker said yesterday he had turned down more business than he was prepared to take on, telling Tribun

Arts festival unites private and public schools

HIGH SCHOOL students will take the stage at the National Centre for the Performing Arts on Saturday for an event dubbed "Celebrating the Talents of Youth". The

Man is charged over 'execution'

A YOUNG Bain Town man has been charged in connection with a murder that has been dubbed an 'execution.'

'Murder rate due to drugs and guns'

NATIONAL Security Minister Tommy Turnquest said yesterday the Bahamas' high murder rates stem primarily from drugs and firearms.

Immigration staff warn of risk to national security

THE country is facing a national security risk in allowing the Royal Bahamas Defence Force to act as immigration officers, it has been claimed.

No man - or woman - is above the law

SHARP WORDS were exchanged last week at the Nassau Street magistrate's court complex between the police officer in charge of security and a lawyer, himself a former senior police officer, who objected to the new security measures that had been introduced just 10 days before.

It is time for drastic measures

Thank you for allowing me to address the letter by Mr Watkins. First of all I would like to thank you, Mr Watkins, for the great and special service you have given to our country as a police officer.

Military funeral closes roads

ROADS were closed this morning as friends, family and police officers gathered to pay their respects at the full military funeral of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Andrew Deveaux.

It's official: Election on May 7

THE 2012 General Election will be on Monday, May 7, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham announced Tuesday night.

Prime Minister's official election statement

My Fellow Bahamians, I address you tonight after serving as your Prime Minister for the last five years, but more importantly, as a husband, a father and a citizen of the country that we all love.

Roll-over car crash

The scene of a terrible roll-over crash on JFK Drive

VIDEO: Parliament dissolved, race is on for 2012 General Election

THIS year's General Election will be on May 7, Tribune242 can reveal.

Political Leaders' Biographies

Backgrounds of the three main parties' leaders

Demetrius gets second consecutive team MVP award

FOLLOWING a record-setting season which resulted in a championship for the Holland College Hurricanes and a second consecutive team MVP award f

'Q' Ferguson clocks personal best

Sheniqua 'Q' Ferguson has gotten off to a fast start this year. Competing along with a field of Bahamians at the Auburn Invitational over the weekend, Ferg

Sands in the Man 'sculling' races in Family Islands for the first time

ROCK Sound, Eleuthera -- Robert Hall wanted to teach the young boys a lesson. On Saturday, Hall dominated the Bahamian

Carifta gold rush

IMPROVING on last year's performance of 31 medals, Team Bahamas is expected to return home from Bermuda with 40 medals for second place and the bid to host the 42nd Carift

Turks and Caicos defeat Caribs 2-1

In a new venture for College of the Bahamas (COB) men's soccer team, they were able to split its series against the Turks & Caicos' under-23 side. Thanks to

Two men quizzed by police after murder

POLICE are questioning two men in connection with the country's latest murder.

BREAKING NEWS: Customs and Immigration workers continue their protest

IRATE Custom and Immigration workers continue their protests for the sixth day.

Man killed during armed robbery

FREEPORT - Grand Bahama police are investigating the murder of a 38-year-old man who was shot during an armed robbery in the Garden Villas area over the Easter holiday weekend.

Burned body found in house thought to be Haitian woman

Burned body found in house thought to be Haitian woman By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net FREEPORT - Firefighters discovered the charred remains of a body among the debris of a burnt-out wooden house in Eight Mile Rock

Insurance ensures 'no fiscal risk' from PLP mortgage plan

A LEADING architect of the Progressive Liberal Party's (PLP) mortgage relief plan is arguing that its so-called $105 million 'funding gap' would be covered by insurance, ensuring the Bahamas' "national financial position is not put at risk".

10,000 passengers daily for airport

NASSAU Airport Development (NAD) officials reported 'strong' passenger numbers during the Easter holiday weekend, after bracing for the impact of a strike initiated during the peak travel period by Customs and Immigration officers.

New realty listings dwarf sales by 25:1

New realty listings dwarf sales by 25:1 By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor New properties added to the Bahamas Real Estate Association's (BREA) Multiple Listings System (MLS) during the 2012 first quarter dwarfed those sold by 25 times', one realt

Making a splash before ringing the bell

THE FNM will fight over every vote and work without pause in the lead-up to the election, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham told supporters yesterday. Mr Ingraham made the announcement at the FNM's Red Splash event at

City Meat chief: $6-$10m to turn 4 stores around

CITY Markets' principal believes an investment of between $6-$10 million is required to turn the supermarket chain's remaining four New Providence stores around, telling Tribune Business he aimed to close their sale to Super Value "by the end of this week".

Legalise the lottery now and we can all be winners

ON FEBRUARY 24, this column called for the legalising of the lottery and numbers business.

Easter Fiesta regatta 'rocks' at Montagu

ELEAZOR "Sailing Barber" Johnson, in conjunction with the Burns House Group of Companies, hosted the Easter Fiesta regatta at Montagu foreshore over the weekend. The event featured a number of C Class sloops from

Islands of the World Fashion Week

Islands of the World Fashion Week The much anticipated return of Islands of the World Fashion Showcase (IWFS) is just over one month away and the organizers are extremely excited about the event. The newly rebranded showcase is set to take place May 11-1

Customs strike: announcement today

CUSTOMS and Immigration workers were expected to make a 'big announcement' today over the future of their ongoing strike.

Bahamians have recreation areas by the sea

TWO YEARS ago - on February 2, 2010 to be exact -- PLP Senator Jerome Fitzgerald stood on the seashore and tried to hold back the tide of progress.

Ambassador's case adds to racism concern

IT SEEMS that institutional racial profiling continues to be a massive problem in the United States notwithstanding that the country has an African-American President, several African-American Congressmen and Mayors of Cities, and accomplished African-Americans in the media and in corporate America.

An entrepreneur's fragrant passion

ONE local entrepreneur is harnessing all of her creativity, skill and passion to produce a line of customised skin care products that is as desirable as a Victoria Secret fragrance. One step at a time, she is confident about reaching her goals.

Canine Parvo Viral Enteritis

Canine Parvo Viral Enteritis By Dr Basil Sands Parvo Viral Enteritis (or PARVO) for short is a relatively new disease. This highly contagious and often lethal virus was first identified in 1978 and is found throughout the world. While the exact source o

Girls to tackle image issues

IN ORDER to blossom from a little homely bird to the most beautiful swan of all, young women must discover their inner beauty, cherish their bodies, and become fully secure within themselves.

Sir Alvin is far from a mulatto

I READ with interest an article written in Thursday, February 24, 2011 edition of The Punch in which P. Anthony White referred to Sir Alvin Braynen as a "mulatto" from The Current.

Your kidneys and your mouth

World Kidney Day was March 8th, 2012 and it was recognized internationally. It is a joint initiative of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF). The day is to increase awareness of the importance of the kidneys to the overall health (including the mouth). In addition, the day seeks to reduce the stigma attached to kidney disease.

Kerzner 'never received offer of any merit'

KERZNER International (Bahamas) managing director yesterday dismissed the surprise reemergence of a group that made a $3.4 billion offer in October 2010 to acquire the Atlantis and One & Only Ocean Club, telling Tribune Business the company had "never ever received an offer of merit".

Substance, not style, is the election's real deal

Without a doubt, for the next several weeks the Bahamas will be fully consumed by election fever. The Free National Movement (FNM) has announced that it has completed its parliamentary ag

Port chair pledges to address 'vitally important' breaks

THE Grand Bahama Port Authority's (GBPA) newly-confirmed chairman yesterday pledged to address Freeport's "critically important" Business Licence and real property tax exemptions, due to expire in 2015, with the Governmsent once the election was over.

Big T winner lands IPad from Custom Computers

ONE lucky reader has scooped an iPad thanks to a competition run by The Big T and Custom Computers.

Four in hospital after shootings

FOUR PEOPLE are in hospital after shooting incidents on Friday and Saturday.

Pair charged with two murders

POLICE arraigned two men in Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with two murders.

Executed for killing gang pal

NOEL Roker may have been executed by members of his own gang after he accidentally shot and killed a friend and fellow gang member the night before.

FNM camp shake-up

A shake-up in the Free National Moverment has brought to the party a new booking agent in the lead up to the 2012 general election.

Tourist to sue over nightmare 24 hours

A FLORIDA woman has filed legal action against Carnival Cruise Lines over allegations that she was wrongfully stripped and cavity searched as a minor on board a cruise in The Bahamas.

Mother's plea to save child from cancer

A DESPERATE mother is making a public plea for help with the medical expenses of her young son, who is struggling with cancer.

Embassy honour for student

ON MARCH 27, the faculty and students of Moore's Island All Age School formally celebrated the accomplishment of 10th grader Devin Major, the Abaco winner of the US Embassy's 2012 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Civil Rights Essay Contest.

Customs and Immigration workers strike

SEVERAL hundred Customs and Immigration Workers are on strike today after efforts to negotiate a new industrial contract with the government stalled once again.

Bishop calls for election reform

BISHOP Hanchell has spoken out in favour of election reform. Addressing a number of matters, church leaders gathered yesterday at a press conference at the New Covenant Baptist Church to speak on social issues, including crime and politics.

Attorney threatens action over alleged assault at court

AN ATTORNEY who refused to submit to new measures at the Magistrates' Court complex requiring body searches for contraband is considering legal action after claiming a senior police officer assaulted him.

Is anyone responsible for mayhem?

Is anyone responsible for mayhem? EDITOR, The Tribune. Every island, cay, and rock in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas falls within a parliamentary constituency. In other words, every constituency is represented in the Honourable House of Assembly. Howev

No mortgage magic bullet

No mortgage magic bullet EDITOR, The Tribune. After the PLP set a new standard for bad public policy recommendations, the DNA followed behind with an equally bad idea, stating that banks should reduce the principal on troubled mortgages by 50 per cent.

Police keeping close watch on the gangs

THE POLICE now have the gangs in their sights. Nervous that retaliation between gang members for the mistaken murder of one of their own this week could lead to “gang war,” police are on full alert.

Survey: DNA to hit FNM more than PLP

Survey: DNA to hit FNM more than PLP THE preliminary findings of a new political survey claim the DNA, although trailing both major political parties, will pull more votes from the FNM than from the PLP. Those votes will come from Bahamians who supporte

Investigation launched into claims of sex assault on boy

THE MINISTRY of Education has launched a full investigation into claims that an 11-year-old boy was sexually assaulted by two of his schoolmates.

BTC says sorry to Mother Pratt over park

BTC has apologised to MP Cynthia "Mother" Pratt for installing a cell tower in the community park named after her.

22-year-old guilty of murder

A 22-YEAR-OLD murdered a man whose body was found riddled with bullets on a track road.

Killer's family in tears after manslaughter conviction

A SUPREME Court jury convicted 36-year-old Prince McPhee of manslaughter yesterday after unanimously deciding he did not murder the country's 47th homicide victim in 2010.

Woman struck by car while using pedestrian crossing

FREEPORT - A woman was seriously injured yesterday after being struck by a car while on a pedestrian crossing.

Police hunting suspects after shooting victim rushed to hospital

FREEPORT - Grand Bahama Police are investigating a shooting in the Freeport area that left a 24-year-old man in hospital.

City Markets staff want pension answers

CITY Markets employees say they have yet to be updated on the status of their pensions and are demanding answers about the combined millions of dollars they have paid in over the years.

Contracts signed for Exuma hospital

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham was on hand yesterday for the official contract-signing ceremony for the construction of the Exuma Community Health Care Facility.

PLP: New government should have picked new chair of Port Authority

PLP: New government should have picked new chair of Port Authority By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Staff Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net THE appointment of a new chair to the Grand Bahama Port Authority should have been left to the incoming government, a

Boxer to bring the 'Pain'

Meacher "Pain" Major said this is his time to shine as he prepares to travel to Mississauga in Ontario, Canada, on May 12 for the North American Boxing Association's super featherweight title bout against champion Logan Cotton McGuinness.

Easter Fiesta all set for Montagu this weekend

MONTAGU Bay will again come alive with sloop sailing action to fill a busy and festive Easter Holiday weekend.

'Sculling' boats make way to Rock Sound homecoming

HAVING christened them at the St Valentine's Day Massacre in Montagu Bay in February, Bahamian Brewery and Beer Company is now taking its four new sculling boats to the Rock Sound Homecoming Celebrations in Eleuthera over the Easter holiday weekend.

Pink Foxes in 33-6 blowout of Lady Raiders

The Bahamas Flag Football League (BFFL) continues to draw a growing fanbase at Winton rugby pitch and entered a new venture in week four as the women's league began regular season play last Sunday.

Super Value chief: Prices up 2-3% with new Port

SUPER Value's owner yesterday warned the price of many grocery items is likely to increase by at least 2-3 per cent, having been told that freight rates will rise by 10 per cent due to the new/revised charges being imposed by the Arawak Cay Port.

6m tourist target's big 'psychological value'

THE Bahamian tourism industry is reaping "huge psychological value" from visitor numbers tracking 10 per cent ahead of 2011 and on target to pass the six million mark for 2012, with April the first month "solidly ahead" of pre-recession comparatives.

Roberts: Abaco interests up 11%

SUPER Value's owner has told Tribune Business that Abaco has proven "more resilient" to the global recession than any other Bahamas island, with his interests on the island seeing an 11 per cent increase in business year-over-year.

External reserves 'run-off' in 2012 no major concern

External reserves 'run-off' in 2012 no major concern By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor While the Central Bank of the Bahamas is expecting "some run-off" in the nation's external reserves, its governor yesterday told Tribune Business any drop woul

Superwash hit by $400-$500k fire 'curve ball'

SUPERWASH president Dionisio D'Aguilar yesterday said his laundromat chain could lose $400,000-$500,000 in revenue due to a fire that destroyed the roof of one of his locations, telling Tribune Business: "It's definitely a curve ball in our operations."

'Look after the pennies, and the dollars will come'

'Look after the pennies, and the dollars will come' By Simon Cooper Res Socius When businesses fail, the reason is usually cash flow or spending money they are not making. Some expenditure is unavoidable, such as replenishing stock and affording premise

Designing for a contract success

NOTHING can teach us what should be in a business contract more than experience.

Finlayson slams pension lawsuit

CITY Markets principal, Mark Finlayson, yesterday slammed a lawsuit alleging that "all or most of the funds" in the supermarket chain's staff pension plan had been disposed of, telling Tribune Business: "I have never done anything contrary to the laws of the Trust".

Contracts signed for Exuma projects

Minister of Public Works and Transport Neko Grant flew into Exuma, Wednesday afternoon, for the contract signing ceremony of various infrastructure works for that island.

Royal Bank slams lawsuit involving Bahamas unit

THE ROYAL Bank of Canada (RBC) has rejected allegations by US regulators that it devised a "massive wash trading scheme", branding them as "unwarranted".

Further air traffic action 'catastrophic'

AIRLINE operators and Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) officials yesterday said any further industrial action affecting air traffic over the Easter weekend would be "catastrophic", as they brace for heavy passenger numbers.

'Unca' John's memory lives on

'UNCA JOHN', 78, never received any of the gifts his children purchased for Father's Day last year. He was killed the day before in a tragic car accident.

Easter message

When two disciples were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus one afternoon, they met the risen Christ.

Cleaning up our act

IN ONE of the New Testament healing stories, the man with the leprosy asks the Lord to please heal him by making him clean.

A time for all

EASTER is upon us and every believer is grateful for this time. Without this sacrifice none of us would have a right to eternal life.

Legendary local guide 'Bonefish Foley' confirmed as an Anglican

MR. ISREAL "Bonefish Foley" Rolle, the legendary bonefish tour guide has received the sacrament of Holy Confirmation as administered by the Anglican Church. In a private ceremony witnessed by three of his closest associates.

Showers of blessings at Easter water baptism

WITH over 100 candidates already signed up for the 2012 Easter Water Baptism, members of the Bahamas Harvest Church expressed their excitement by saying "God is awesome".

Easter Song: A heartfelt success

FOR THOSE who have ever wondered what it would have been like to witness last days of Jesus' life on earth, the United Passion Week production entitled 'The Easter Song', will transport you back to biblical times.

Fire hits Superwash

SUPERWASH owners are still trying to assess the damage to one of its locations after a fire extensively burned the building early yesterday morning.

Home destroyed in blaze

A wooden house off Nassau Street was destroyed by fire shortly after 8pm on Tuesday night.

Classmates allegedly assault boy, 11

A school is reeling from shock after an 11-year-old boy was allegedly attacked and sexually assaulted by two adolescent boys. According to information obtained by The Tribune, the boy was assaulted by two students aroun

Beer Fest fans get double dose

WELCOMING the biggest crowd since its inception six years ago, Beer Fest 2012 provided patrons with a double dose of entertainment using a split-theme concept to divide and style t

Disco night racks up big bills

SIX people walked home richer than when they arrived at the Bahamas Humane Society (BHS) "Disco Night" on Saturday night. The annual fundraiser event served as the drawing table for the signature BHS Raffle. Winners took ho

DNA leader at injured girl’s bedside

AFTER the violence hit close to home, DNA leader Branville McCartney criticised the government for its failure to crack down on the country’s escalating crime problem.

Court video link ‘a fool’s dream’

DNA CANDIDATE Wayne Munroe yesterday criticised live video link testimony in the Her Majesty’s Prison, calling it an “ineffective fool’s dream.”

Shelves cleared in shopping frenzy at City Markets

AMID reports that the struggling five-store supermarket chain will close or agree to sell, hundreds of shoppers flocked to City Market locations for a cash only, al

Off-duty policeman shot in leg

AN off duty police officer was shot in his leg yesterday afternoon in Nassau, prompting police to take into custody a "significant number" of men. Police are also investigating two other Grand Bahama incidents which left tw

Public urged to follow rules as new mini roundabout unveiled

REQUESTING the public's close observance of a new road measure intended to alleviate traffic coming out of the port, the Ministry of Works announced the installation of a temporary mini-roundabout at the Arawak Cay junction yesterday.

Russell 'a double threat' on diamond

BELL BUCKLE -- Being only a sophomore, teams might discount Webb sophomore Rio Russell as simply too young and inexperienced to pose much of a threat on the diamond.

Computer start-up targets Bahamas

A Bahamas-based cloud computing start-up is looking to deliver IT solutions and significant cost savings to Bahamian institutions, its director telling Tribune Business yesterday that the financial and hospitality industries were in its target market.

PLP mortgage plan 'a ploy'

THE Progressive Liberal Party's 10-point plan to assist struggling homeowners is nothing more than a political ploy, Bahamas Mortgage Corporation chairman Dr Duan

Head over heals for painting

Straw craft instructor Emily Munnings is determined to paint just about anything she can get her hands on. The designer of Mavis M. Straw Bags was eager to learn every bit of texture painting techniques sha

Licences needed for City Market deal 'go'

SUPER Value's acquisition of City Markets' four remaining New Providence locations is effectively done and only awaiting the Government's shop licence approvals to be consummated, Tribune Business was told yesterday, the former's owner saying he "couldn't risk" the stores falling into the hands of a competitor.

The month of April

There are two seminal months in the year. Forget the official dates. By the end of October it is winter; by the end of April it is summer. This means any plant we grow from seed in April will have fierce sun to conte

Veteran band represents for Bahamian culture

It was a Bahamian competition, but traditional Bahamian music was not the only sound on the stage at the Global Battle of the Bands, Bahamas

Candidate wants every resident to have a voice

FNM CANDIDATE for Montagu Richard Lightbourn said effective community building can only take place if every resident has a voice.

FNM still playing the dating game over naming day of the election

FNM still playing the dating game over naming day of the election THE decision to call a general election is made by the prime minister, who advises the governor-general (who represents the monarch) to dissolve parliament. This gives the governing party

BTC flagship sees 35-40% sales rise

THE growing demand for smart phones has boosted sales at the Bahamas Telecommunications Company's (BTC) Mall at Marathon location by 35-40 per cent year-over-year, its chief executive has told Tribune Business.

Don't throw PLP mortgage plans 'under the bus'

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor A leading housing developer yesterday urged Bahamians and the banking industry not to "throw under the bus" the Progressive Liberal Party's (PLP) plan to tackle mortgage foreclosures, arguing that the so-called fu

Super Value chief blasts 80% share claim as 'garbage'

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor Super Value owner Rupert Roberts yesterday blasted claims that his impending acquisition of City Markets' remaining store locations would give him an 80 per cent market share as "garbage" and "total rubbish", tell

Mitchell hits back at PM on City Markets

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham's public condemnation of the PLP for allowing City Markets to be sold a second time sparked an irate response from Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell yesterday.

Loud applause for first battle of the bands

IT WAS the first event of its kind. An unmatched outlet for a Bahamian bands to showcase their talents. It was the Global

Agencies moving in to new $18m site

FREEPORT - Several government agencies have started relocating to the new $18 million government complex on Mall Drive.

Voter fraud: five electors removed

THE final ruling in the North Andros voter fraud case was delivered yesterday. Administrator Huntley Christie ruled that five of the challenged voters will be removed from the island's register while the other 15 will r

Disqualified band rocks GBOB

AFTER months of hard work, their disqualification from the Global Battle of the Bands, Bahamas competition was a disappointing blow, but Legacy 242 would not be defeated. They staged a guest performance at Saturd

Big win for fledgling band at GBOB

Local bands let loose at the Botanical Gardens on Saturday bringing everything from reggae, alternative/rock 'n roll to Goombay and rake n' scrape at the

Bye bye to the funny guy

THE AMERICAN Idol contestant Heejun Han, known for his over the top comical sense of humor, found himself voted out of the competition last week. As the season quickly nears its end, the competition last week.

Business owners scout fresh talent at GBOB

THE Global Battle of the Bands, Bahamas, was no ordinary music event. Not just because it included 10 Bahamian bands, performing live, origi

New choir members rise to the occasion

MEMBERS of the National Youth Choir of the Bahamas filed onto the stage and dazzled the crowd with classical, negro spirituals, and broadway performances

Gala event for school anniversary

THE Lyford Cay International School this year celebrates its 50th anniversary and many celebratory events are being held to both raise funds to expand and upgrade facilities, and to mark the important milestone.

Cybots take game 1 of championship series

The MailBoat Cybots stunned the Commonwealth Bank Giants in game one of the New Providence Basketball Association's (NPBA) best-of-five championship series.

Prosecution abandon incest trial

FREEPORT - A 36-year-old father accused of incest will no longer stand trial in the Supreme Court after the matter was withdrawn on Monday.

114 immigrants sent back to Haiti

THE Department of Immigration yesterday announced the successful repatriation of 114 Haitian immigrants to Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

Father and sons charged in connection with drugs find

FIVE men were charged in Magistrates Court yesterday in connection with two drug seizures in which a total of nearly a $900,000 worth of drugs were confiscated.

Verdict expected today over shooting death

A SUPREME Court jury will pass judgment today on 36-year-old Prince McPhee, who is standing trial in connection with the 47th murder of 2010.

Don't fall for those who can't deliver

WHEN one picks up a copy of The Tribune and sees page upon page of homes on the market because owners are unable to keep up with their bank mortgages, there is cause for tremendous concern.

Bring a statue of Tommy to the stadium bearing his name

I WATCHED with pride on Saturday, February 25th, 2012 as the Thomas A Robinson Stadium was officially opened.

Recent naturalisations

IS IT just me or has anyone else noticed the sudden increase in recent weeks in the number of "Notices" in our local papers for persons who are being considered for naturalisation/citizenship?

On visit of New York supercop

WILLIAM Bratton, the former Police Commissioner in New York City, credited for cleaning up New York crime problems in the mid-1990's, was in town recently for a consultation with Bahamian Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade and the Cabinet of The Bahamas Government.

Costs of laying water main

Costs of laying water main EDITOR, The Tribune. For the sake of accuracy, the public needs to appreciate that in 2007 this FNM government added to the New Providence Road Improvement programme the strategic 30-inch water main which was to be installed f

Mother Pratt: Why put a telephone mast here?

THE construction of a cellular phone tower in the middle of an inner-city community park has outraged its namesake, St Cecilia MP Cynthia 'Mother' Pratt, who hit out at the lack of prior consultation.

How to target your market

A FEW months ago, a local retail client of mine asked me to help them with their Facebook strategy. During my strategy session I asked them: "What is the ultimate goal of your being on Facebook?" After a lot of back and forth, they said the idea was to drive traffic into the store while providing quality information to their customers. They felt the best way to accomplish this was through a Facebook Fanpage. However, they were disappointed with the results they were presently achieving.

BTC targets total 4G cover by end-summer

By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net The BAHAMAS Telecommunications Company (BTC) is optimistic that by summer's end the entire nation will be covered by its 4G (fourth generation) network, its chief executive telling

Port confirms Fair as chairs

FREEPORT - Ian Fair is the new chairman of the board at the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), it was confirmed yesterday, more than six months after Tribune Business revealed the move was in the offing.

Royal Bank 'blamed Bahamas branch' on multi-million scheme

US regulators have alleged that Royal Bank of Canada blamed staff at its Bahamian branch for playing the lead role in devising a "massive wash trading scheme" worth hundreds of millions of dollars, which it executed through this nation and the Cayman Islands.

Blood plea

DOCTORS Hospital is appealing to the public to make blood donations.

Victim of nightclub shooting named

POLICE have identified the man who was shot and killed in front of a night club over the weekend as 20-year-old Akio Françoise Burrows.

Jack's the pick of the bunch in chef contest

JACK Knowles, of LW Young Junior High School, is the winner of the 2012 New Providence Junior Young Chef Championship. The 14-year-old grade nine student earned a combined 528 points with his "Mahatma Island" and "Spicy Caribbean Delight" - which also won

Protocol and the Prince

EDITOR, The Tribune. Some years ago, when Sir Gerald Cash was Governor General, we had a royal visitor to the Bahamas in the person of Princess Anne, the Queen's daughter. The visit coincided with the opening of a new session of parliament and so some o

PMH'S CRITICAL CARE BLOCK '20% FINISHED'

By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net THE $52 million Princess Margaret Hospital Critical Care Block is on schedule and about 20 per cent complete, Cavalier Construction's managing director said yesterday, telling Tribu

How to on dog midwifery

Most Veterinarians are inundated with calls from their clients during off hours concerning dogs that are delivering puppies. The common concern: My dog is about to deliver pups, and I need to know what to do and what to expect.

Will all four relay teams qualify for Olympics?

WILL all four of our relay teams qualify for the 2012 London Olympics? Well, that's a question that remains to be answered as the Bahamas is expected to begin its trek to relay-qualifying during Penn Relay Carnival set for April 26-28.

'Biggie' gets the victory

Anthony "Biggie" Colebrook, one of the top junior cyclists in the Bahamas, set a new course record to win the Potcake Biathlon series. Over the weekend, there was a tight finish between Colebrook and Justin Minnis who got second place. Antonio Roberts, a

Mother and baby separated as bail is rejected

Mother and baby separated as bail is rejected By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net A MOTHER still breast-feeding her less than five month old baby was told by a magistrate that despite her circumstances, the court could no

Empowering women for a better Bahamas

A LOCAL group is on a mission to better the Bahamian society. To achieve this goal, the group has committed itself to the empowerment of women.

Parties pledge to tackle foreclosures

By CELESTE NIXON Tribune Staff Reporter cnixon@tribunemedia.net ALL three political parties have pledged to address the worrying rate of home foreclosures over the past several years. Over the weekend Progressive L

More police on the street as senior staff are to leave their desks behind

By SANCHESKA BROWN Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net SENIOR officers attached to the Central Police Station will spend less time on desk duty and more time patrollin

Bran: Ingraham's personal agenda hurt GB

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net FREEPORT - DNA Leader Branville McCartney claims that Hubert Ingraham allowed his personal conflicts with the principal of the Grand Bahama

PM promises resolution 'soon' for CLICO policy holders

By KHRISNA VIRGIL kvirgil@tribunemedia.net CLICO policy holders who were unsure of what would happen, following the company's liquidation, to the millions of dollars that they had paid in, can soon

A healthy classroom for healthy generation

INSIDE the standard lunch box of a Bahamian child you will likely find chips, cookies, soda and any number of processed foods.

Troy Garvey hits out at FNM over relief initiative

BY DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net FREEPORT – After almost five years of leading protests against the Grand Bahama Power Company, which recently announced a “relief initiative” for disconnected customers, community activist Troy Garvey criticised

Parade of suspects at court over armed robberies

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net FIVE MEN and a juvenile boy were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with a number of armed robberies over the past month. The first pair to be arraigned

Roadwork compensation 'a political tactic'

Roadwork compensation 'a political tactic' By KHRISNA VIRGIL kvirgil@tribunemedia.net THE government's survey of businesses adversely affected by the ongoing road works is nothing but a shallow political tactic, Coconut Grove Business League spokespers

PLP MORTGAGE PLAN'S $100M UNFUNDED GAP

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor Bahamian banking industry executives yesterday identified several flaws with the Progressive Liberal Party's (PLP) mortgage foreclosure plans, telling Tribune Business there was a more than-$100 million gap betwee

DEALER: CAR SHOW PROPOSALS 'DOUBLE'

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor Bahamian auto dealers are nervously waiting to see whether seemingly-heightened buyer interest at last weekend's Car Show will translate into increased sales, one yesterday saying it had seen a 100 per cent year-o

Ethics and Professionalism

Is your dentist a professional? Or is he just an individual who has a degree in dentistry? After your dentist graduated from dental school, he became a participant in a profession and not necessarily a professional. Joining a profession will not automatically make an individual a professional.

Oil explorer inks RoyalFidelity to aid BDR offering

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor A Bahamas-based oil explorer yesterday said it had appointed RoyalFidelity Capital Markets to advise it on a Bahamian Depository Receipt (BDR) offering and subsequent Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BIS

Bahamian journalists return from women’s empowerment tour

AFTER participating in the U.S. State Department’s Women’s Empowerment Reporting Tour, Bahamian journalists Noelle Nicolls, features editor at the Tribune and Inderia Saunders, contributing writer to the pan-Caribbean eWoman Magazine paid a courtesy call on US Chargé d’Affaires John Dinkelman at the US Embassy.

Last respects to the late Kent 'Drinks' Forbes, 51

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net Softball players, coaches, executives and fans packed St Francis Xavier Catholic Cathedral to pay their last respects to the late Kent Forbes. Forbes, 51, collapsed on the field in the Archd

Teens charged over robbery

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net POLICE charged two teenagers in Magistrate's Court yesterday with kidnapping and armed robbery at Paradise Island on March 7. They were accused of abducting a

Who cares about human rights?

It was a constant theme amongst women advocates in the United States, and it appears to be the hard cold reality for women advocates in the Bahamas: that is, policy makers and private citizens are basically unmoved by impassioned cries for human rights.

Marriage: What you need to know before the vows

Marriage: What you need to know before the vows By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer SOME people invest a great deal of time and money educating themselves about special interest fields, but do not think the same can be applied to marriage. For

World Health Day shines spotlight on ageing

World Health Day is celebrated annually on April 7 and represents a unique opportunity to focus attention on a specific global health issues with intention, and to compel governments, international communities, civil societies and individuals to take action globally.

COB men's soccer team set to host Turks & Caicos in two-game series

By RENALDO DORSETT Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net INTERNATIONAL and intercollegiate athletics will merge when the Bahamas' top tertiary institution faces our neighbours to the south in a friendly exhibition. The College of the Bahamas (COB) me

Minister fears air trafficaction's effect on tourism

By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net MORE industrial action is imminent if an amicable resolution is not reached within the next few days on outstanding issues raised by the Bahamas Air Traffic Controllers Union (BATCU

PM tours site of care unit

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham toured the site of the new Critical Care Unit that is currently under construction at the Princess Margaret Hospital yesterday.

Fundamentals are the problem

EDITOR, The Tribune. Debates have raged and the public and pundits alike have given their two cents on the poor state of our Judiciary. From the amount of time it takes for a matter to make its way through the system, to issues pertaining to jury trials

BAHAMAS FIRST CHIEF: BISXLISTING 'PROBABLE' IN 2012

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor Bahamas First Holdings' chief executive yesterday told Tribune Business he personally believed the general insurance holding company would list on the Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) in 2012 "if i

Bahamians beware of the cyber attackers!

THE CYBER rascals are at it again. This time, they decided to hack into the gmail account of the president of the East Nassau Rotary Club.

PLP celebrate Bahamians losing lives?

PLP celebrate Bahamians losing lives? EDITOR, The Tribune. The PLP seem to be celebrating every time someone is killed. I am baffled as to how this could be good for the PLP. It is a stretch to even fathom how they could profit from the tragedy of other

Two men gunned down in killings

Two men gunned down in killings POLICE are searching for the motives behind two cold blooded killings that took place on the streets of New Providence yesterday. The first victim, a St Alban's Drive man, was chased down and shot dead on his doorstep earl

Teenager dies in car crash

POLICE are investigating a traffic accident in which a 18-year-old man was killed. The incident occurred at around 11pm on Sunday.

Man found shot dead

Reports have reached The Tribune of a shooting death off West Street.

Four shot, one dead in nightclub shooting

THE Luna nightclub was the backdrop for a violent attack over the weekend, when a shooting left one man dead and three people - including a 17-year-old girl - in hospital.

Girls paying for school with sex

YOUNG girls are turning to prostitution in an effort to make ends meet, according to a leading psychiatrist.

PM vow to city markets staff

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham has promised City Markets workers the government will ensure they are treated fairly. On Friday, the owners of the supermarket chain confirmed they were in talks with Super Value about the possibility of selling the remaining five stores to their biggest competitor.

Sweet smell of success for Stinkin Wayz

LESS than one point separated the winner from the first runner-up at the Global Battle of the Bands, Bahamas competition on Saturday.

Task force launched to prevent human trafficking

THE Ministry of National Security announced the establishment of a National Task Force on Trafficking in Persons to enhance its responsiveness to one of the most quickly growing criminal enterprises in the world.

Police crack down on marijuana

THE government is cracking down on the use and production of marijuana across the country. Minister of National Security Tommy Turnquest said that while the use of cocaine - which rose to epidemic proportions in the 1980s - has substantially fallen off, the use of marijuana has grown, especially among young people.

Candidate recovering after surgery

PLP Garden Hills election candidate Dr Kendal VO Major was yesterday recuperating in hospital after surgery.

PM highlights efforts to defeat crime

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham opened the FNM Fox Hill Headquarters on Saturday, endorsing candidate Shonel Ferguson. Speaking out on the war on crime, Mr Ingraham said the government has "invested extraordinary amounts to upgrade the effectiveness of the police and the capacity of the criminal justice system".

Obama faces host of election-year constraints

MISSILE defence isn't the only area in which President Barack Obama will have "more flexibility" if he's re-elected. Immigration, the Canada-to-Texas oil pipeline, gay marriage, tax policy and other issues could invite bold initiatives by a president who knows he will never run for office again, especially if his party gains ground in congressional elections.

A thousands times no to foreign police

I READ with interest a report by Dr David Allen a noted psychologist, while I agree with some of his findings on the root cause of the crime situation and some of his recommended remedies, I strongly oppose the bringing in of foreign police from Canada, the UK and Israel for the following reason, we have had personnel from the UK on our police force for over a hundred years and whereas a few of them made valuable contributions to our force, the majority of them would have been better off remaining where they came from.

Whoops, wrong way - police have to explain new traffic flow

POLICE and government officials took to the streets yesterday to direct drivers still confused about traffic flow changes stemming from ongoing road works.

Education honour for veteran

FREEPORT - Veteran educator Donald McCartney has been named VIP Member of Worldwide Who's Who for Excellence in Education Administration and Public Service.

Where are businesses in Caribbean business?

Where are businesses in Caribbean business? By Sir Ronald Sanders THE countries of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM), with the exception of Guyana and Suriname, are each experiencing severe decline in their economies. The small Leeward

Honesty pays for taxi driver

FREEPORT - A taxi driver was presented with the Most Courteous Driver Award for returning a valuable piece of equipment he found on the roadside.

Relay team could qualify for the London Olympics

The Bahamas Swimming Federation (BSF) could for the first time have a 4 x 100 freestyle relay team qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games.

'Fireman' postpones meet until next April

INSTEAD of going to Grand Bahama, Chris 'Fireman' Brown has decided to holf off his initial Invitational Track and Field Classic and is now expected to stage it at the new Thomas A Robinson Stadium next year.

Pinder, Brown honoured

DEMETRIUS Pinder and Chris 'Fireman' Brown admitted that, although they are rivals, they both had one mission and that was to win a medal at the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Istanbul, Turkey.

Athletes get good send-off to Carifta Games

WITH the 70-member team preparing to leave town on Thursday for Hamilton, Bermuda, the majority of the athletes got a good send-off to the Carifta Games on Saturday night.

City Markets staff allege 'conspiracy'

TEN Grand Bahama-based City Markets employees are alleging that the company and its principals deliberately altered their employment terms to "coerce and compel" them to leave voluntarily, thereby relieving the supermarket chain of the need to pay them severance and pension benefits.

Bank warns on provisions rise

BANK of the Bahamas International has warned investors it may have to increase loan loss provisions further during its financial year's second half, its managing director telling Tribune Business it was "grappling" with the inability to rapidly sell distressed real estate assets.

City Markets chief hoping deal 'imminent'

CITY Markets' principal believes the acquisition of the struggling five-store supermarket chain by Super Value's owner and president, Rupert Roberts, is "imminent", telling Tribune Business: "He's a very serious man, and he's very serious about this deal."

Competition fearson Super Value's City Markets 'deal'

RIVAL food retailers have voiced fears that allowing Super Value to acquire City Markets' remaining stores would create a "virtual monopoly" in the New Providence supermarket business, with an estimated 60-80 per cent market share.

Cable pressured by 18.5% cost rise

Cable Bahamas last night unveiled a 2.5 per cent net income increase for 2011 to $20.483 million, as it warned that rising costs continued to "challenge" its financial performance. Unveiling an improvement upon its 2010 bottom line of $19.991 million, the

City Markets name 'should have died'

THE City Markets name was what ultimately caused the struggling supermarket chain to fail to recover, a rival food retailer believes, telling Tribune Business that the Finlayson family "should have let the name die" when they acquired the 78 per cent majority stake back in 2010.

Report on crime

IN today's Insight, we present the official report on crime prepared by noted psychiatrist Dr David Allen. Some findings from this report were first published in The Tribune on March 30, 2012.

Man shot dead

A 32-year-old man was shot dead in the early hours of Monday morning

One dead, three injured in shooting

A shooting in the early hours of Sunday morning left one man dead and three others injured.

'Lifeline' for City Market workers

Boss promises 400 jobs will be secured

A MAJOR Bahamian owned food store chain is negotiating to buy the financially struggling City Market ¬– offering a lifeline to hundreds of workers, says the company’s bos

High hopes for Bullard

SINCE dominating at St Bede’s, then at Westminster College and now at Ridley College in Canada, Geno Bullard Jr has matured into one of the most highly acclaimed junior basketball players in The Bahamas.

Man questioned after woman suffers serious head injury

FREEPORT – Police are investigating a grievous harm incident that resulted in a young woman suffering a serious head injury.

Tribune242 readers back foreign assitance to tackle crime problem

THE majority of Tribune242.com readers think foreign assistance is needed to tackle the nation’s escalating crime problem.

Lawyer E Dawson Roberts dies age 85

PROMINENT Bahamian lawyer E Dawson Roberts died at 11am yesterday at his Eastern Road home. He was 85. Mr Roberts was a direct descendant of Loyalist Wyannie Malone, who founded Hope Town, Abaco, in 1783 after moving from Charleston, South Carolina.

Bahamian talent hits Brooklyn

BAHAMIAN talent is being represented in a big way in New York this weekend, as two aspiring models and one singer take part in Brooklyn Fashion Week.

The best of the FNM cabinet

IN this increasingly hyper-partisan and thorny political environment—in the face of a general election—I decided to rate the FNM’s best and worst ministers from 2007 to 2012, measuring the ministerial performances of each and rating them on a scale from one to five. Last week’s YMV column listed the one-star, bottom-tier ministers who I felt had mismanaged the sky-high expectations of the Bahamian people.

Disdain for Mr 'Squeaker'

WHAT is it about Speakers of the House that makes them so pompous? First, there was Alvin Braynen of the Bahamas House of Assembly. Now there is John Bercow of the British House of Commons. JOHN MARQUIS reports...

Saturday March 31st

“Surprise, surprise. This is how I felt when I saw the same telephone unionists in the news again after only a few short months when they raised all kind of corn to dissuade others from working for the new company. I thought these would have been the first people out of the door to work for themselves.”

Stories for April 2012

Monday, April 30

Saturday, April 28

Friday, April 27

Thursday, April 26

Wednesday, April 25

Tuesday, April 24