Stories for November 2014

Agent join mentor's firm

Mario Carey still remembers the first time he met Prince Lewis. He was a curly-headed child, not quite six years old, holding a book nearly as big as he was.

The need to regulate private security firms

The Bahamas has in recent years seen an explosion of growth in the private security sector. This growth is largely due to the increasing crime rates, expansion of various industries that require basic security controls to operate, and the increase in personal wealth for many Bahamian business persons

Minnis causes more division

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Cable invests $400k in satellite antenna

Cable Bahamas has invested more than $400,000 in a new satellite antenna that enables the company to reduce costs and enhance its REVTV signal quality on all digital and HD signals.

Cable lists pref shares on BISX

Cable Bahamas has listed $114.5 million worth of preference shares on the Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX).

FNM deputy: Bank of Bahamas chief can't 'buck pass'

By NEIL HARTNELL

Sports in brief

BASKETBALL

The art of political leadership

EDITOR, The Tribune

Pastors of Prayer Outdoor Service

Pastors of Prayer will hold their next outdoor service tomorrow (Sunday, November 30th) at 7:30pm at Holy Dove Baptist Church 5th Street the Grove. The public is invited to attend.

UPDATED: Two men shot dead minutes apart

TWO young men were shot and killed in Yellow Elder Gardens Friday afternoon, both murders seemingly committed by culprits driving a champagne coloured, heavily tinted Honda Accord, according to police.

Woman ‘shot in thigh by nephew’

POLICE are investigating an incident where a woman was reportedly shot in the thigh by her nephew.

State-recognised funeral for Dr Myles Munroe and his wife, Ruth

THE funeral of Dr Myles Munroe and his wife, Ruth, on Thursday will be state-recognised, the Cabinet Office announced yesterday.

Man in hospital after shooting outside the Mall at Marathon

POLICE are investigating a shooting incident that took place outside the Mall at Marathon yesterday morning which has left a man in hospital with injuries to his back.

Union chief: BEC overtime well-deserved

Bahamas Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard yesterday charged that the nearly $5 million paid in overtime to workers this year was well-deserved and hard-earned.

Badgers take Battle 4 Atlantis title

The tournament championship bid for Grand Bahamian Buddy Hield and his Oklahoma Sooners at the Battle 4 Atlantis came up just short against one of the top teams in all of NCAA basketball.

Work-to-rule ended by BEC union

BAHAMAS Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard yesterday said the union has decided to be the “bigger person” in its feud with BEC Executive Chairman Leslie Miller and stop the work-to-rule it began earlier this week.

Seven years in jail for killing boyfriend

A WOMAN was sentenced to seven years in prison yesterday for the stabbing death of her boyfriend, who a judge said was “the author of his own demise” in a “heart-rending” case of domestic violence.

Mitchell to probe sickness absence of immigration staff

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday said his ministry is investigating why eight of 12 immigration officers failed to report for work at the Lynden Pindling International Airport on Wednesday – their absence resulting in severe queues for many who tried to clear immigration.

All-Stars shine in New York Parade

THE Bahamas All-Star Band made history yesterday as the first international marching band to participate in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.

Death penalty 'unlikely' without legal challenges

CONSTITUTIONAL Commission Chairman Sean McWeeney said recent comments about the end of hanging by Court of Appeal justices reflects opposition the London-based Privy Council has to the death penalty.

Prime Minister celebrates 40 years in public service

PRIME Minister Perry Christie last night celebrated 40 years in public service at a ceremony at PLP headquarters.

One worker lands $60,991 extra in just nine months

THE “cash-strapped” Bahamas Electricity Corporation paid out nearly $5m in overtime for the first nine months of this year, according to documents obtained by The Tribune.

Bahamian woman volunteers to be test subject for Ebola research

A BAHAMIAN woman studying medicine in the United States has willingly become a test subject in a research designed to fight the spread of Ebola in the Western hemisphere, according to an international report.

Sooners top Butler 59-46 for Atlantis title berth

IT WAS a rough shooting day from the field for Buddy Hield, but a balanced scoring attack from the Sooners propelled them in the Battle 4 Atlantis final.

Ryan Ingraham wins bronze in high jump

Ryan Ingraham finally broke the jinx for the Bahamas, winning the first medal in track and field, on Thursday to push the overall count to seven at the XXII Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico. Team Bahamas, however, fell short of getting on the podium in tennis and the men’s volleyball remained winless as the two-week competition starts to wind down.

Attempted murder suspect seeks bail to be home for Christmas

A MAN awaiting trial for attempted murder is seeking bail so that he can spend the holidays with his family, The Tribune has learned.

Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival to be launched today

BAHAMAS Junkanoo Carnival will be officially launched today in Grand Bahama at the Count Basie Square in Port Lucaya Marketplace, where residents and visitors will see the unveiling of the costume collection.

Man shot by two armed men

A MAN is in stable condition in hospital after being shot by two armed men around 9pm Wednesday.

Visionary leader required for the Commonwealth

Next year’s election of a Commonwealth secretary-general is full of intrigue as Africa and the Caribbean face potential British candidacy, Kayode Soyinka writes

Clubs and Societies 11/28/2014

Advanced Toast Masters Club 7108. - Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell was the guest speaker at a luncheon meeting of Advanced Toast Masters Club 7108 at Lucianos Restaurant on Wednesday, November 19. The topic was the new immigration policies.

Smith blasts the DNA for supporting immigration policy

THE Democratic National Alliance has been chastised for supporting the government’s new immigration policy as a prominent human rights advocate said yesterday the fledgling party is condoning regressive and dictatorial actions.

Galanis slams ‘ludicrous’ $4.6m loan default claim

A former PLP MP and Senator last night slammed a US financier’s bid to obtain a $4.605 million default judgment against him as “ludicrous”, and promised a “serious court battle” over the issue.

Bank of Bahamas: 'PEP' loans less than 5% of total

Loans to politically-exposed persons (PEPs) “never” exceeded more than 5 per cent of Bank of the Bahamas’ total outstanding credit portfolio, its managing director says.

$6.3bn GB development must prove 'viability'

The Government wants the principals behind the proposed $6.3 billion development for east Grand Bahama to prove its “viability” by conducting a feasibility study, Tribune Business was told yesterday.

Tourism fears for visitor experience on airport queues

The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) yesterday warned that first impressions were “critical” to the visitor experience in this country, a day after its major gateway was affected by Immigration processing delays.

Bank of Bahamas in further $6.5m loss

Bank of the Bahamas appears to have incurred a further $6.511 million net loss for the first quarter of its 2015 financial year, its top executive describing the past 12 months as “the most challenging for me personally”.

A survey that will test your company's life-force

Most agree that service quality in the Bahamas, specifically as it relates to to people, process and products, leaves much to be desired.

Ministry of Tourism delegation

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Nightmare trip to the Bahamas

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Growth of a budding nation

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Airport operations return to normal

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Port assists Technical Cadet Corp programme

The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has made a contribution to the Technical Cadet Corp Programme (TCCP), which serves as a valuable extra-curricular activity impacting more than 100 students from 10 schools on Grand Bahama.

Briefly

WASHINGTON (AP) — Hillary Rodham Clinton offered praise for President Barack Obama’s executive actions to stave off deportation for millions of immigrants living in the US illegally. But the Democrats’ favoured presidential hopeful has been less forthcoming on other issues in these early days of the 2016 contest.

Cybots nip Wreckers, Rebels beat the Caribs

THE Mail Boat Cybots and the Rythm Rebels had to hold off their rivals for close victories Wednesday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium as the New Providence Basketball Association’s regular season continued.

Baha Mar institute graduates 350 pupils

Three-hundred and fifty students from Baha Mar’s Leadership Development Institute (LDI) graduated from the largest class in its history on Wednesday.

Miller says launch of legal action by workers is a bid to intimidate him

LESLIE Miller, Bahamas Electricity Corporation Executive Chairman, yesterday accused the Bahamas Electrical Workers Union of using intimidation tactics by reportedly retaining a law firm to sue him as tensions mount over Mr Miller’s refusal to sign a negotiated industrial agreement with the union.

BEC Union says no more overtime – rostering now needed

GONE are the days when unions could demand that they would negotiate industrial contracts with no one but the prime minister.

Affecting our nation

BEC union staff agitating for more pay now operating on work to rule, refusing to work overtime and threatening strike action unless their demands are met.

Pastor Rich was a giant

The tragic plane crash that killed Dr Myles Munroe, Dr Richard Pinder and seven others is still the object of discussion in the country and indeed in the international religious community. There have been countless tributes from many over this tragedy.

Minnis is not to be doubted

I’m writing this letter in a country of people who claim to believe in God. A “Christian” nation. It is clear to me that there are many “supporters” of the FNM who are truly not believers in God or maybe they just don’t have enough faith to believe that God is in control.

Bulldogs top no.5 Tar Heels 74-69

THE biggest fan-base at the Battle 4 Atlantis also has be the most disappointed fan-base at the moment after they witnessed their beloved Tar Heels fall in the tournament opener yesterday at the Imperial Arena.

Where are the worst potholes?

RESIDENTS of the Montagu constituency are alarmed by the lack of a response by Ministry of Works to hazardous potholes in the area.

'40 non-Bahamians a day' being picked up by immigration staff

IMMIGRATION officials yesterday estimated that an average of 40 undocumented non-Bahamians have been picked up daily in New Providence since new resident regulations were implemented on November 1.

Baha Mar to give NIB details over job cuts

BAHA Mar officials plan to present the National Insurance Board with information that would assist the board’s investigation into recent layoffs of 190 workers from Crystal Palace “within time,” Robert Sands said yesterday.

Flowers has no plans to lay off workers

THE head of the country’s oldest web shop operation has no plans to lay off workers now that the Gaming Act has come into force.

Companies refusing to do business with BEC

TWO local companies have refused to do business with the Bahamas Electricity Corporation because the “cash-strapped” organisation has outstanding accounts with balances in the thousands, according to BEC Executive Chairman Leslie Miller yesterday.

Appeal Court says there is never going to be a 'worst of the worst'

“HANGING is over” was the consensus of three Court of Appeal judges presiding over yesterday’s hearing of a man seeking to be exonerated of a conviction and death sentence for the paid execution of his friend.

Best Buddy scheme helps disabled to graduate at Baha Mar

FIVE students with developmental or intellectual disabilities have been offered jobs at Cable Beach mega-resort Baha Mar after graduating from the resort’s Leadership Development Institute yesterday.

Baha Mar in ‘multi-million losses’ warning vs. Breezes

Baha Mar has warned it would lose “hundreds of millions of dollars in expenses and lost revenues”, and employment for thousands of Bahamians would be delayed, if a rival Cable Beach resort is granted its injunction application.

'Tax-free zones will help poor, not displace them'

ESTABLISHING inner city tax free zones will transform communities – not burden the poor or cause them to be displaced, newly-elected FNM Chairman Michael Pintard said yesterday.

Delay in $2m drug trial

THE trial of three men accused of being involved in a $2m drug smuggling plot has been pushed delayed by three months.

DNA 'focused on empowering youth'

THE Democratic National Alliance is focused on empowering the country’s youth, Deputy Leader Chris Mortimer said.

Grand Bahama gears up for Carnival

WITH the inaugural Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival six months away, Grand Bahama is gearing up to reveal its costume line tomorrow.

PM tells students of his personal story of hope

PRIME Minister Perry Christie told students at the opening of a basketball tournament in Grand Bahama yesterday his personal story of hope and how sports inspired a change of direction in his life.

Bahamian star in Atlantis spotlight

BUDDY Hield couldn’t have scripted a better homecoming for his tournament debut at the Battle 4 Atlantis.

Energy costs ‘killing our growth prospects’

Renewable energy sector representatives yesterday urged the Government to “give us a chance to prove ourselves”, the Chamber of Commerce describing reform in this industry as the Bahamas’ “single largest priority”.

Central Revenue set-up ‘well before end-2015’

The Government’s Central Revenue Agency (CRA) will be operational “well before the end of 2015”, a senior official telling Tribune Business yesterday that it will be based on Carmichael Road.

'Hard push' for small business Bill by March

A well-known small business consultant says he will “push the Government hard” to pass legislation deemed vital to the sector’s growth prospects by March 2015.

‘Who’s driving this VAT bus?’

The Government has yet to appoint its Value-Added Tax (VAT) Comptroller even though there are just five weeks left before implementation, with the private sector and Opposition crying: “Who’s driving this bus?”

ART OF GRAPHIX: The warning signs we receive from clients

Over the years, graphic and web designers have had the honour of listening to countless outrageous requests and stories from potential clients. Some we have laughed out loud over, and there were others where we had no choice but to walk into another room to avoid throwing the computer through a closed window. Yes, this is an accurate statement.

POLICE SEEK PUBLIC’S HELP IN LOCATING MISSING ELDERLY MAN

Police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating 77-year-old Anthony Bastian of Zion Boulevard.

Resort receives second successive gold award

The Sandyport Beaches Resort and Hotel has won another industry gold award, the highest acclaim achievable in RCI’s vacation exchange programme.

Cruise liner brings 300 on first Nassau voyage

A German-registered cruise liner brought more than 300 passengers to Nassau during its first voyage to the Bahamian capital.

Tribute to my friends and the BFM family

By Pastor Dr Wilfred T

Minister: 'I can make good' on oil promise

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Downtown Nassau seeks Hilton owner meeting

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Religious notes

• EBENEZER Mission Baptist Church will hold its annual convention on December 4 at 7pm at the church’s fellowship hall. All members are asked to attend the special event.

Dreams that repeat themselves

By KEVIN L A EWING

On Da Hook

THE Wahoo have remained active despite the high winds and weather over the past week in the Bahamas.

Long Island Cancer Society visits St Peter's Church in Long Island

LAST Sunday was a grand occasion which saw many Long Islanders who are committed Anglicans, and who reside in the northern Long Island area, attend St Peter’s Anglican Church in Simms. The proverbial stage was set and Rector Father Chester Burton said he was elated and ecstatic to welcome the newly formed Long Island Cancer Society Chapter to his Eucharistic celebration.

Bel Canto Singers present Christmastide 2014

AFTER a splendid summer performance tour in Washington, DC, the members of Bel Canto went straight to work for this year’s Christmastide.

Calvary Deliverance celebrates Pastoral Anniversary

THE leadership, members and partners of Calvary Deliverance Church on East Street South have come to a very special time of the year in which they will celebrate, appreciate, honour and extend their love and thanks to Senior Pastor James Newry and Queenie Newry during the church’s second annual Pastoral Appreciation Service.

Jollification opens up new markets for local artisans

VETERAN vendors and newcomers alike enjoyed the latest instalment of the Bahamas National Trust’s Jollification where they got the chance to display their wares and expand their clientele.

Report says weather played major part in plane crash

A PRELIMINARY report into the plane crash that killed nine people in Grand Bahama on November 9 attributed the main cause of the tragedy to deteriorating weather conditions that reduced visibility resulting in a missed landing on the aircraft’s second approach to the airport.

Griffin praise for Loretta

SOCIAL Services Minister Melanie Griffin yesterday commended former FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner for “stepping forward” and taking on incumbent leader Dr Hubert Minnis for the leadership of the party.

OAS immigration meeting with Mitchell delayed

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said discussions with two major international organisations that were planned for today to clarify the government’s controversial new immigration restrictions in Washington, DC, have been postponed until next week.

Munroe expects a number of webshops to close

ATTORNEY Wayne Munroe said yesterday that he would be surprised if more than half of the webshops in operation remain in business by December, with compliance costs likely to prove too hefty for many of them.

Six engines shut down - and leave much of New Providence in darkness

POWER outages continued in New Providence yesterday after six engines at the Clifton Pier Power Plant shut down Monday afternoon.

Sparks fly as BEC row grows

MEMBERS of the Bahamas Electrical Workers Union are operating on work to rule and will not work any overtime, union President Paul Maynard said yesterday.

Sports in brief

THE Island Luck Pros punched the right numbers and the PJ Stingers were stinging as the two teams pulled off big victories at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Monday night as the New Providence Basketball Association continued its regular season.

Artist Spotlight: Khiara Sherman

WHEN Khiara Sherman released her first song over a decade ago, there were no social media avenues such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to help push her music. Today, these popular mediums have allowed her to independently share her talent with a larger audience.

A blast from the past

ART enthusiasts will be able to travel back in time when an exhibition that takes a look at Bahamian art spanning 100 years opens this Friday.

'Real Good Time' for Bahamian reggae band

SELF-PROCLAIMED sophomore reggae band Willis and the Illest hope to harness and showcase the power of music in their new music video for an unreleased Bob Marley track “Real Good Time/Bass is Heavy”.

Grand Bahama Artists Association Thanksgiving Exhibition

THE GRAND Bahama Artist Association’s Thanksgiving exhibition has always been one of the island’s largest displays of art which aims to push the boundaries and explore various subject matters.

Belles of the Ball: Pilot Club edition

This week’s beauties of the ball got dressed to the nines for the Pilot Club of Nassau’s 32nd annual ‘Thanks for the Memories’ ball at the Meliá Nassau Beach Resort.

Permission granted to testify by video in double murder retrial

A JUDGE yesterday granted the Crown’s request for key witnesses in a double murder retrial to give evidence by video link.

‘Mixed bag’ on food retail VAT readiness

The food retail/wholesale industry’s Value-Added Tax (VAT) readiness was yesterday described as “a mixed bag”, with a leading executive hopeful all “bumps and hiccups” with the new tax regime will be eliminated in the first six-eight months.

Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival compilation CD released

DURING the month of July, the Bahamas National Festival Commission (BNFC) invited musicians from throughout country to enter their Junkanoo Carnival Song Competition. As a result, over 170 songs were submitted by established and aspiring Bahamian artists who produced new Bahamian music.

Public voting opens for Commonwealth Conference song contest

THE Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has announced the top ten songs in its song competition to mark the Bahamas’ key role in hosting the 19th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers (19CCEM) next June.

Jay Complex explores the flow of time and space with new single

I BET you can’t say ‘spatiotemporal human interaction’ three times fast; and with the third single, more commonly referred to as “S H I” from Jay Complex’s recently released EP “religionROUGE” you won’t have to, because the song is definitely more calming than the title would suggest.

Cuba sweeps Bahamas 3-0

IT wasn’t the start the Bahamas men’s national volleyball team expected at the XXII Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico.

Buddy, Sooners to face Wannah and the Bruins

WITH the prestigious men’s division one collegiate Battle 4 Atlantis basketball tournament set to get underway today, Bahamian players are primed to take centre stage as Buddy Hield’s Oklahoma Sooners square-off against Wannah Bail’s UCLA Bruins.

No Rubis fuel leak probe for a month, says former operator

RUBIS Bahamas officials did not investigate concerns over the fuel leak at its Robinson and Old Trail Roads service station for more than a month, according to the former station operator.

19 Cubans detained at Cay Sal Bank

NINETEEN Cuban migrants were apprehended by immigration officials on Tuesday.

Going orange: Say no to domestic violence

CHILD abuse may be a major determining and contributing factor to the “ugly scourge” of domestic violence in the country, Social Services Minister Melanie Griffin said yesterday.

Scholarships worth $150,000 given away by Sunshine Insurance

A BUSINESS plan from a senior at Kingsway Academy that outlined the student’s aim to diversify the economy by creating a bush tea pharmacy has won her a $60,000 scholarship to attend Elmira College.

Sizwe Banzi is dead

A DEEP-SEATED and morally troubling play about life in Apartheid-period South Africa written by Athol Fugard, John Kani & Winston Ntshona, and adapted to the Bahamian stage by Philip Burrows, “Sizwe Banzi is Dead” exposes the sub-humanity blacks lived in that country.

Wage declines spark fear of VAT living standards squeeze

Bahamians are facing “a very significant” living standards squeeze in the New Year, the FNM’s newly-elected deputy leader warned yesterday, with costs increasing but wages “going the other way”.

BEC strike threats are 'totally unacceptable'

A leading private sector executive yesterday branded strike threats by Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) line workers as “totally unacceptable”, with the country “unable to afford” such action as it heads into the key Christmas sales season.

VAT inclusive price concerns are ‘eased’

A leading retailer yesterday said concerns over the Value-Added Tax (VAT) ‘inclusive pricing’ transition had been “resolved”, while urging the Government to prevent “chaos” by allowing period accounting to continue.

Cash: New leadership will continue to hold PLP to account

FORMER Free National Movement Chairman Darron Cash shot back at insults from PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts yesterday, calling him “irrelevant”.

Eleuthera developers target December open

Eleuthera’s French Leave Resort and Marina plans to be “open and operational” by mid-December, its developers telling Tribune Business that more than $8 million has been invested in the project to-date.

'Further threats' demand financial sector overhaul

The Bahamas will face “further threats” to its financial services industry that may demand a complete overhaul of the sector’s traditional business model, the FNM’s finance spokesman said yesterday.

Salvation Army given $10,000 by AML Foods

THE Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Kettle Drive got off to a good start this week with a $10,000 donation from AML Foods Ltd.

Pre-paid Visa cards for social services 'revolutionary'

THE introduction of pre-paid Visa cards for persons eligible for Social Service benefits was described as “revolutionary” by Social Services Minister Melanie Griffin.

US citizen arrested for failing to declare cash

AN American woman of Fort Myers, Florida, was arrested at the airport for allegedly failing to declare nearly $70,000 in cash, police said.

Make clients belong to reach tough road's end

E. Clement Bethel wrote the following words to a song a few years ago. This song ought to be the motto for those who consider themselves marketing revolutionaries. The song goes like this: “When the road seems rough, when you’ve borne enough, don’t faint, don’t sigh, don’t cry, wonder why, just keep on trying, cease your sighing, look beyond the present way, this time will pass, tomorrow’s another day.”

Man stabbed in Grand Bahama

POLICE in Grand Bahama are investigating an incident that has left a man with stab wounds.

Team Swift brings home five medals from Winter Swim Championships

SWIFT Swimming is maintaining its name as having super fast swimmers to look out for.

Roberts presided over deterioration

EDITOR, the Tribune.

Politics have destroyed our human spirit

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Results? A novelty!

Re: Minister says new crime fighting strategies will achieve results.

Coldwell Banker boosts sales team

Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty has added Michael Turnquest to its sales team.

POLITICOLE: Minnis it is (and what's his name)

I paid a few trips to Parliament this past summer, to witness first-hand what Members of Parliament (MPs) get up to in the House of Assembly.

Man accused of murder is cleared

THE question of who was behind the late-night fatal shooting of Aaron Hepburn in The Grove remains unanswered following the acquittal of his accused killer in the Supreme Court yesterday.

Charges considered after boy’s death

INVESTIGATORS will know by Friday whether any relatives of the 11-year-old boy who was shot dead over the weekend will face charges, Chief Superintendant Clayton Fernander said yesterday.

Body of man found in canal - but police do not suspect homicide

POLICE are investigating the death of a man whose body was found in the Sea Breeze canal yesterday.

How Slim the dog saved me from cancer

DAISY, the Labrador, received a medal and a royal pat on the head from Prince Charles last week for her uncanny ability to sniff out cancer – 551 patients in all, including that of her owner.

Demonstration expected today by hundreds of BEC workers

HUNDREDS of Bahamas Electricity Corporation workers are expected to demonstrate in front of the corporation’s main office today, protesting BEC Executive Chairman Leslie Miller’s refusal to ratify the Bahamas Electrical Workers Union’s industrial contract.

'Loretta may have won if she was a man'

SEA Breeze MP Hope Strachan yesterday said she felt that the Free National Movement might have found it “easier” to elect Loretta Butler-Turner as their new leader if she were a man.

LW Young Junior High School closed for repairs

L W Young Junior High School will be closed today due to urgent plumbing repairs that need to be made to the school, officials said.

Boxer advances to the medal round

With an impressive showing, Carl Hield moved into the medal round of boxing at the XXII Central American and Caribbean Games last night in Veracruz, Mexico.

Hats off to the Heart Ball Committee

IT was an afternoon of glamorous designs, fabulous hats and elegant gloves as Bahamian ladies helped to raise money to repair the hearts of children.

Swimmers all set for FINA Short Course World Championships in Qatar next month

WITH all the success they have achieved so far this year, the Bahamas Swimming Federation is still not done yet.

CV Bethel, SAC dominate national high school volleyball tournament

WHILE it was two straight victories for the CV Bethel Stingrays over arch-rivals CC Sweeting Cobras in the senior boys’ final, the St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine was too much for CV Bethel to handle as they dominated the senior girls’ side of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s 2nd Annual National High School Volleyball Tournament.

Carlton Francis Rockets boys, girls win basketball championship titles

THE Carlton E Francis Rockets won both the New Providence Primary Schools boys and girls basketball championship titles at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium on Friday.

Private sector frustration grows on VAT Unit response

A senior private sector executive yesterday called for “immediate improvement” in the Value-Added Tax (VAT) Unit’s responsiveness to business community inquiries, amid concerns this could stymie the last minute “run on registration”.

Missing man

AN Abaco man has been reported missing, police said.

PM hails effect of new airport radar

PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday touted the government’s acquisition of a new radar for the Lynden Pindling International Airport’s Air Traffic Control division as a “dramatic improvement” of the aviation sector in the country.

Seafood supplier accused of fraud worth $65,000

A SEAFOOD supplier accused yesterday of $65,000 worth of fraud faces up to five years imprisonment if convicted.

Lower revenue from Bimini hurts Resorts World's parent company

RESORTS World Bimini’s parent company suffered a decline in earnings in its latest quarter, according to international reports.

Air traffic union highlights failure to establish safety committee

BAHAMAS Air Traffic Controllers Union President Lashan Gray yesterday said the Civil Aviation Department’s failure to establish a Health and Safety Committee for air traffic controllers and resolve several other issues is preventing the union from “truly speaking to progress within air traffic services.”

'We must have zero tolerance for violence against women'

SOCIAL Services Minister Melanie Griffin has urged citizens to have “zero tolerance” for violence against women as today the world observes International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Bahamas ranks 101st for political gender equality

THE Bahamas ranked 101 of 142 countries for gender equality in political empowerment, according to a global report released last month.

Roberts mocks defeated FNMs

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party chairman Bradley Roberts yesterday roasted political rivals for their losses in the recent Free National Movement convention.

Insurers seeking VAT input credit clarity

The Bahamian insurance industry yesterday urged the Government to clarify which inputs it will be allowed to claim Value-Added Tax (VAT) credits on during the 2015 first half, a leading carrier saying this “makes all the difference in the world”.

'Wonderful development' for workplace relations

A three-party meeting will today attempt to finalise legislation designed to create smoother labour relations in the Bahamas, a private sector representative describing it as “a wonderful development”.

Coalition 'won't relent' on wider fiscal reforms

The Tax Coalition will take the lead in tackling all outstanding Value-Added Tax (VAT) concerns due to the Government’s “slower than anticipated” response, its chairman yesterday promising it “will not relent” on wider fiscal reforms.

Lawyer appointed at public expense for killer's appeal

A MAN contesting his conviction for the murder of a friend he claimed introduced him to an HIV-positive woman will now have a lawyer appointed to present his appeal at the public’s expense.

Bimini businesses hit by new Resorts World cruising schedule

Several Bimini business owners yesterday said Resorts World’s new cruising schedule, which has seen its vessel pull out of Port Everglades and revert to sailing from Miami, in what the company has called a “repositioning” to two-night cruises, has caused a fall-off in business levels.

Hotels to 'still pursue' VAT on compliment rooms

The Bahamian hotel industry will “continue to pursue” the Value-Added Tax (VAT) treatment of complimentary rooms, as it has yet to achieve its “preferred position” despite the Government giving ground.

Agriculture policy to emphasise buyer links

Small Bahamian producers and livestock developers must have secure access to regional and international markets, the Minister of Agriculture said yesterday, adding that “connecting buyers to sellers” was central to the the Bahamas’ Agriculture Policy Programme (APP).

9th annual Dr Martin Luther King Jr Essay contest

THE United States Embassy in Nassau has launched its 9th annual Dr Martin Luther King Jr Essay contest.

Cancer Society explains genetic testing for breast cancer

THE Cancer Society of the Bahamas is clarifying information that appeared in a recent media report about genetic testing for breast cancer.

Healthcare vs sickness care

By SUSAN DONALD, DC

The flawed Minnis

EDITOR, The Tribune.

'Women's Week' officially launched

MINISTER of Social Services and Community Development Melanie Griffin launched “Women’s Week” with remarks at the morning worship service at the Church of God of Prophecy, East Street, on Sunday.

Painting the town orange

THE colour orange will adopt new meaning as the Zonta Club of New Providence moves to “Paint the Town Orange” in its new campaign to end violence against women and girls.

US officials meet with Port Authority

US Embassy officials met with the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) last week during a visit to the island.

Bill Cosby show at Atlantis

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Bahamians want lower rates: unionists want more pay

BAHAMIANS from all sides are crying for their electricity bills to come down. Today too many Bahamians, unable to pay their bills, are forced to go without electricity.

Youth group dominates food to Families of All Murder Victims

EXECUTIVES, students and mentors of the Youth Empowerment Programme Bahamas made a donation of non-perishable food items to Families of All Murder Victims on Saturday.

The importance of exfoliation

Desquamation is the body’s natural process of exfoliation, or the shedding of dry, old, hardened skin cells so new cells can come to the surface. In an oily skin condition, desquamation can be slowed, as oily skin acts as a glue that holds dead skin cells to the surface. This can contribute to clogged follicles, leading to the build-up of acne bacteria which stimulates the production of breakouts.

What do women want and why?

By MICHELLE MILLER

Palm Cay marina targets 50% slip rental growth

The manager of New Providence’s newest full-service marina yesterday said he is expecting a “solid season” that could see a 50 per cent improvement in boat slip rentals, and an even greater increase in fuel and other services sales.

Must have humane solution to Haitian problem

YES, the Bahamas has a problem, a major problem that started slowly many years ago but has grown to such proportions today that sound decisions have to be made to contain it. Bahamians call it “the Haitian problem”.

INSIGHT: Ready for battle or heading for defeat?

The FNM may be celebrating the new-look leadership team but there are doubts it has a strong enough voice to win the next general election. Taneka Thompson reports.

President Obama's immigration address

The issue of immigration has been making front page news recently both here in the Bahamas and in the United States. Last Thursday, President Barack Obama took the debate to a new level, when he introduced controversial new policies for the US. Here is his address in full:

YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: FNM needs credible names to be its standard bearers

THE Free National Movement’s convention would be over by the time of today’s publication, but by all accounts it was shaping up to be a heated, highly contested affair

COB warns students of VAT on tuition

WITH the implementation of value added tax only six weeks away, the College of The Bahamas is advising students of how the 7.5 per cent tariff will affect their bills in the next semester and beyond.

Loretta committed to the FNM

AFTER her landslide loss in the leadership contest at Friday’s Free National Movement convention Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner said she will continue her “fight” and remains committed to her party.

BEC union 'will strike' if Miller fails to honour deal

BAHAMAS Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard said the unions representing workers at the Bahamas Electricity Corporation will “go on strike” if Executive Chairman Leslie Miller refuses to honour an industrial contract the union has “already negotiated with the government”.

Nine-year-old boy helping police after cousin, 11, killed as shotgun goes off

A NINE-year-old boy is assisting police with their investigation into the shooting death of an 11-year-old boy, believed to be his cousin, in Andros early on Saturday morning.

Minnis pledges 'tax-free zones'

NEWLY re-elected Free National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said if elected in 2017, his party will create inner city “tax free zones” and develop a new plan, more efficient than the current government’s policies, to “stomp out crime.”

Prisoner escapes from police as he was about to board plane

POLICE have issued a wanted bulletin for an escaped prisoner who ran from officers while he was about to be transferred from Grand Bahama to New Providence.

Historic moment for Grand Bahama

NEWLY-elected Free National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest and Chairman Michael Pintard pushed a message of unity as they spoke with reporters at the party’s headquarters in Grand Bahama.

CAC Games: Boxer Hield advances out of round of 16

THE second and final week of action for Team Bahamas at the XXII Central American and Caribbean Games kicked off in Veracruz, Mexico, over the weekend with boxing, cycling and sailing taking the spotlight.

Near $200m energy saving from natural gas switch

The Bahamas would realise between $172-$186 million per annum in “net savings benefits” if it switched to natural gas as its main energy generation source, with this nation’s electricity system costs the highest in the Caribbean.

Co-pilot of crashed plane laid to rest

FAMILY and friends of the late Franhkan Cooper gathered at Bahamas Faith Ministries on Saturday to say farewell to a man described as a positive, professional gentleman.

Moncur: Opposition must unite for sake of country

A FORMER Democratic National Alliance candidate believes that opposition political parties must put aside their egos for the greater good of the country if they wish to defeat the governing PLP in the next general election.

Crowds brave weather for Jollification

THE crowds turned out in force over the weekend despite the inclement weather – particularly on Saturday – for the Christmas Jollification at the Bahamas National Trust Retreat, Village Road, enjoying some of the country’s finest arts and crafts, a variety of food and a tasting of holiday spirits.

Students flock to BTVI fair

SCORES of Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institution students flocked to the recent college fair to gain information on further education and scholarship opportunities.

Minister 'pledges' to help retain RBC's Bahamas book

The Minister of Financial Services yesterday “pledged” his support for Bahamas-based entities to acquire Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) private wealth management business, in a bid to preserve the 30 local jobs that will be impacted by the Canadian giant’s exit.

BISX listee's principal seeks SEC suit dismissal

A BISX-listed company’s principal, and its broker/dealer affiliate, are demanding that a federal regulator’s lawsuit against them be dismissed because the US courts have “no jurisdiction”.

Four web shops closed before Bill hit House

At least four web shop operators exited the industry before the new Gaming Bill ever went to Parliament, a prominent attorney has revealed, while confirming that Percy’s Island Game was “definitely going ahead” to obtain a license.

Morton Salt hits at union claims

Industrial unrest is brewing at Morton Salt, as the company and its German owners prepare to this week open a $1.2 million administration building to replace facilities destroyed by Hurricane Ike.

Minnis condemned for supporting 'illegal' immigration policies

A LEADING human rights advocate has denounced the newly re-elected Free National Movement leader, Dr Hubert Minnis, for condoning “illegal” tactics, betraying core principles and pandering to prejudice in his support for the Government’s immigration polices as a bid to attract votes.

Union urges Morton: 'Come to your senses'

The union representing more than 100 line staff at Morton Salt has called on the company to “come to their senses” and prioritise resolving outstanding labour issues, accusing it of dictating as opposed to negotiating.

Reality show aims to attract Chinese Visitors

A Bahamian tourism promotion firm is using film to attract Chinese visitor attention to the Bahamas and convert it into travel.

Nearly 100 attend Millennials launch

Pic e-mailed

A plea to China

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Officials 'well on way' to children's registry

OFFICIALS at the Ministry of Social Services and Community Development are “well on the way” towards establishing a children’s registry.

Praise for immigration officers

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Eagles fall to Kings 46-13 in the state chamionship

By RENALDO DORSETT

Realtor: Break Nassau's development 'time warp'

A leading real estate broker has called for Nassau to be viewed as a city, where its occupants now have to build up rather than out.

Chamber unveils its Energy Forum

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) will on December 3 host the Bahamas Energy Security Forum 2014 at the British Colonial Hilton Hotel.

MMA fighter Yves Edwards loses 5th straight bout

By RENALDO DORSETT

Sports in brief

BOWLING

Ex-Robin Hood owner: 'Franchise' possibility for new retail format

By NEIL HARTNELL

Roadmasters' 2nd Half Marathon brings out the distance runners

By BRENT STUBBS

Conchservation scheme given $50,000

A BAHAMAS National Trust programme creating a strategy to ensure the long-time survival of the conch population has received a major boost with a donation of $50,000 from the Moore Bahamas Foundation to its Conchservation efforts.

Police investigate shooting death of 11-year-old

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting death of an 11-year-old boy in Andros.

MINNIS WINS FNM LEADERSHIP VOTE

NEWLY re-elected Free National Movement (FNM) leader Dr Hubert Minnis was ushered into the Holy Trinity Activity Centre last night to boisterous applause after defeating Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner in the leadership contest.

Minnis pays tribute to opponent Loretta

IN HIS first speech as the newly re-elected leader of the Free National Movement, Dr Hubert Minnis last night said he looked forward to working with his former second in command Loretta Butler-Turner in the lead up to the 2017 general election.

New FNM Chairman Pintard sets sights on ‘rescuing the country’

SENATOR Michael Pintard emerged as the Free National Movement’s new chairman at the party’s convention last night.

Deputy Turnquest ‘ready to go to work’

NEWLY elected Free National Movement (FNM) Deputy Leader K Peter Turnquest said last night he is confident the party’s new leadership team will be victorious in the next general election.

UPDATED - FNM CONVENTION: DR HUBERT MINNIS WINS PARTY LEADERSHIP VOTE

The latest results are in from the FNM convention at Holy Trinity’s Convention Centre in Stapleton Gardens.

FNM CONVENTION: Ingraham says 'majority will determine the future'

FORMER Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said today that the Free National Movement's (FNM) national convention is important in order to settle "some unsettled issues" affecting the party.

FNM CONVENTION: Party contenders calm and composed

THE Free National Movement leadership contenders this morning remained calm and composed as delegates began the process of deciding whether Dr Hubert Minnis and Loretta Butler-Turner should be charged with the party’s fortunes and direction at the Holy Trinity Convention Centre.

FNM CONVENTION: Warm welcome for Dr Minnis

ARRIVING at the Holy Trinity Convention Centre this morning, the first impression was that it was more a rally for Dr Hubert Minnis than a party convention.

FNM CONVENTION: Carl Bethel backs Minnis

AS delegates and supporters arrived for the Free National Movement party’s convention this morning former Attorney General and opposition senator Carl Bethel voiced his support for incumbent Leader Dr Hubert Minnis in the leadership duel with Loretta Butler-Turner.

Mitchell firm over OAS concern on immigration policy

FOREIGN Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday said he was “not concerned in the slightest” about Organisation of American States Secretary General Jose Miguel Insulza’s “concern” about the Bahamas’ new immigration policies.

Tributes paid to Levarity at funeral

PRIME Minister Perry Christie was one of several persons to pay his last respects yesterday to former Cabinet Minister and parliamentarian Warren J Levarity, who died last week.

FNM CONVENTION: When the votes are cast - when the results are called

NEARLY 450 Free National Movement delegates will cast votes in the party’s convention today to choose representatives across 51 positions, including that of leader, deputy leader and party chairman.

DNA protests BEC prices - and Miller says he wants to join the protest too!

BEC Executive Chairman Leslie Miller said yesterday that despite the steep drop in global oil prices, Bahamians should not expect to see decreases in electricity bills until “at least January”.

Who will carry the torch?

FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner said yesterday she will spend the last few hours before today’s party convention lobbying delegates with “a last rallying pep talk.”

Chipman backs Sands for deputy leader post

ST ANNE’S MP Hubert Chipman has endorsed Dr Duane Sands for deputy leader of the Free National Movement.

Jury to visit crime scene

A JURY hearing evidence in a murder trial is scheduled to visit the crime scene where a man was fatally shot in The Grove.

Bahamian couple detained over US currency

A BAHAMIAN couple has been arrested and accused of possessing a large quantity of US currency believed to have been obtained by illegal means.

Gold fever at CAC

Olympic swimmer Arianna Vanderpool-Wallace put her own stamp of approval on her performance at the XXII Commonwealth Games in Veracruz, Mexico when she picked up her fourth gold medal in another record-breaking feat.

Youngsters learning about Bahamas Waste

YOUNGSTERS have been learning about Bahamas Waste with an increasing number of school tours of the facility in New Providence.

Appeals for trio convicted of murder will be heard next year

THE appeals of three men contesting their convictions for the murder of a policeman will not be heard until 2015.

Crippled cruise ship still docked

THE crippled Bahamas Celebration cruise ship remains docked in Freeport Harbour three weeks after hitting an object on leaving the port in Freeport.

Waterspout sparks alarm among local schoolchildren

A WATERSPOUT spotted off the northeastern coast of New Providence this week, which tried to form a tornado over land, sparked alarm among local schoolchildren, raising the question of what people should do to safely avoid them.

Student's environment poster earns her a $3,000 scholarship

PRISCA Charles, a student at CV Bethel Senior High School, has beaten thousands of entrants from the Caribbean and Latin American region to win a prestigious environmental poster competition and a $3,000 educational scholarship.

Ex-Robin Hood owner 'pioneers world first'

The owner of the former Robin Hood store yesterday likened himself to “the Phoenix rising”, as he returns to the Bahamian retail scene with “an unprecedented concept” he believes will cut his operating costs by 60-65 per cent.

Anoher powerful field expected in the Battle 4 Atlantis

FOLLOWING the latest edition of the Associated Press rankings for the NCAA men’s basketball season, the fourth edition of the Battle 4 Atlantis (B4A) is expected to field yet another powerful field.

Thanksgiving meal for those in neeed

MORE than 100 less fortunate and elderly people were fed yesterday thanks to Great Commission Ministries’ annual Thanksgiving luncheon.

Allegations aside, the Cosby show goes on

FANS of Bill Cosby last night gave the renowned comedian - who has been the focus of renewed claims of sexual assault - a partial standing ovation after his show at Atlantis.

Government tackles VAT register 'turn-off'

A senior private sector executive yesterday praised the Government over its fast-tracking the Businesses License approval process for mandatory Value-Added Tax (VAT) registrants, adding that it was “not unreasonable” for the Government to expect a “mini-windfall” from this process.

Ex-owner takes '100% responsibility' for Robin Hood closure

The defunct Robin Hood retail chain’s owner yesterday said he was personally “100 per cent responsible for the failure”, adding that he had a choice between “brain surgery” of returning to retail.

'Not in market's interest' for BTC appeal to succeed

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) main rival last night said it was “not in the market’s interest” for its appeal against a regulatory ruling, which found it guilty of anti-competitive behaviour, to succeed.

Moody's: Gov't bank rescue costs 'modest'

The Government will only incur “modest” financial costs over the 10-year Bank of the Bahamas bail-out, an international rating agency praising its “swift action” to prevent any wider impact on the commercial banking system.

IAN FERGUSON: Striking the correct Immigration balance

Much has transpired in recent times regarding the national debate on Immigration reform.

Baha Mar's PGA golf course link

Baha Mar has partnered with the PGA TOUR’s TPC Network to unveil TPC at Baha Mar.

Clubs and Societies 11/21/2014

Anglican Church Men of Christ Church Cathedral. - The Anglican Church Men of Christ Church Cathedral invites the public to come and join then at their annual Thanksgiving happy hour mix-mingle and dance on Friday, November 28, beginning at 5:30pm. Music will be provided by DJ Ice BS productions. Tickets are priced at $20. Venue: Cathedral Parish Hall and Courtyard, George Street. Part proceeds to Cathedral House.

Immigration policy is unconstitutional

EDITOR, The Tribune.

OAS offering scholarship opportunities to Bahamians

BAHAMIAN students are being encouraged to take advantage of the large number of scholarship opportunities available through the Organisation of American States.

Sports notes

SOFTBALL

Union hails key taxi self-ownership step

By NATARIO McKENZIE

BTC installs five new mobile towers

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has installed five new cellular towers in New Providence, in a bid to improve service quality for mobile phone users in key traffic areas.

Almost 200 sign up for Venetian package

Almost 200 persons signed up for units at the Venetian West development during its latest open house, with the developers reporting that 52 per cent of units having been reserved to-date.

Jay Major emerges as overall champion in Tour de New Providence Cycling Championships

THE New Providence Cycling Association held its Bertram Cowboy Musgrove/Tour de New Providence Cycling Championships over the weekend in the western portion of New Providence.

Briefly

THE Tenement Museum, on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, is one of my favourite places in New York City. It’s a Civil War-vintage building that housed successive waves of immigrants, and a number of apartments have been restored to look exactly as they did in various eras, from the 1860s to the 1930s (when the building was declared unfit for occupancy). When you tour the museum, you come away with a powerful sense of immigration as a human experience, which — despite plenty of bad times, despite a cultural climate in which Jews, Italians, and others were often portrayed as racially inferior — was overwhelmingly positive.

Simple solution to crime problem

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Leno adds a real estate affiliate

LENO Corporate has become the latest Bahamian financial services provider to launch a real estate affiliate.

Negative letters

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Drama, defections and disrespect - A Westminster tale

By PETER YOUNG

National Hall of Fame Induction set for National Sports Heritage Week Ceremony set to be held at Government House

By BRENT STUBBS

Atlantis unfairly blamed for jet ski operators

RECENTLY, the US Embassy warned of increased incidents of sexual assault in New Providence, some of them linked to the “loosely regulated” water sports on Paradise Island.

BRANVILLE MCCARTNEY: OUR FIRST ACTION WILL BE TO HANG ANYONE CONVICTED OF MURDER

DNA Leader Branville McCartney said yesterday if his party is elected to office, its first course of action would be to “immediately hang anyone who is convicted of murder”.

Turnquest: I have advantage in deputy race

EAST Grand Bahama MP Peter Turnquest believes his status as a member of parliament puts him at an advantage heading into tomorrow’s FNM convention, where he will vie for the deputy leadership post.

Teenage robbery suspects shot after chase

POLICE shot and injured two teen armed robbery suspects late Tuesday night after a high speed chase and shoot-out in New Providence that lasted about 20 minutes.

Police are investigating social media use of plane crash pictures

SENIOR Assistant Commissioner of Police Emrick Seymour has expressed dismay over the unconscionable circulation on social media of gruesome pictures of the victims in the plane crash in Grand Bahama last week.

Nottage: We are still assessing over crime

NEARLY three weeks after the National Security Council met to discuss new crime fighting initiatives, Royal Bahamas Police Force executives and the government are still in a “state of reassessment” over crime, said Bain and Grants Town MP Dr Bernard Nottage.

Bishop's plea to gangs: Turn in your guns

BISHOP Simeon Hall, pastor emeritus of New Covenant Baptist Church, yesterday urged gang members and criminals to turn in their illegal firearms, as a way of reducing gun crime in the country.

Webshops will get seven days to close

WEBSHOPS that are not granted licences to operate will have seven days to shut down once notices of closure are released, Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe announced yesterday.

Bill Cosby concert for women’s charity ‘will not be cancelled’

DESPITE growing controversy over renewed allegations that he sexually assaulted women in several incidents decades ago, American comedian Bill Cosby is still expected to perform in the Bahamas tonight in a charity event.

Detective says suspect's associate told him he witnessed murder

A MAN told a homicide detective how he witnessed an associate of his fatally shoot a man in The Grove, a Supreme Court jury heard yesterday.

Maycock to appeal to Privy Council

MELVIN Maycock Sr was granted leave to go to the Privy Council to contest the Court of Appeal’s rejection of his application that questioned its jurisdiction in varying a sentence originally imposed on him from the Magistrate’s Court.

Port 'completely loses VAT plot'

A prominent QC is threatening to launch a Judicial Review action against the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) for linking Value-Added Tax (VAT) registration to licensees being current with their Port licence fees.

On Da Hook

THE highights of another wonderful week of Wahoo fishing throughout the Bahamas was a 122lb monster caught in Bimini and two 90lb specimens taken in San Salvadorby Andrea Frank.

Tourism minister 'very concerned' over reports of sexual assaults

TOURISM Minister Obie Wilchcombe is “very concerned” about recent reports by some tourists and the US Embassy in Nassau regarding alleged cases of sexual assault on Americans by members of the water sports industry, mainly jet ski operators.

Mitchell reiterates policy over illegal immigration

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said the execution of new immigration policies is a blunt instrument that should not be viewed as social work as he asserted the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling illegal migration.

DNA to hold protest against BEC costs

THE Democratic National Alliance will hold a demonstration at 9am today in front of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation’s main office, in protest of the country’s “extremely high light bills,” Chairman Andrew Wilson said yesterday.

Govt still backs referendum - but no certainty over date

WHILE National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to passing the four Constitutional Amendment Bills, there is still uncertainty over this time line and when the proposed referendum will be held.

Pintard running for FNM chairman after calls from members of the party

SENATOR Michael Pintard officially announced his candidacy for chairman of the FNM last night.

Double silver for Joanna in Mexico

The medal haul continued last night for Team Bahamas in the Leyes de Reforma Aquatic Center at the XXII Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico.

Minister: It may take months to find crash answers

TRANSPORT and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna Martin said yesterday that it could take several months before the investigations into the Learjet 36 crash in Grand Bahama, which claimed the lives of prominent pastor Dr Myles Munroe, his wife, and seven others, is completed.

Judge 'needs to reflect' on manslaughter sentence

A JUDGE said she needed time to reflect on the sentencing of a woman who reportedly suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder prior to her boyfriend’s stabbing death.

NCAA: Bahamian players take spotlight early in season

BAHAMIAN players are making their presence felt across the NCAA division I landscape as teams continue their non-conference schedules early in the season.

RENALDO’S RAMBLINGS: NFL PICKS WEEK 12

We’ve been here with these Chiefs before. Incredible regular season, dynamic running game, adequate game manager, playoff calibre defence, coach of the year candidate….and not an ounce of trust heading into the postseason.

Bar: 'We're not xenophobic', amid foreign VAT adviser hunt

The Bahamas Bar Association’s president yesterday denied that the organisation is “xenophobic”, indicating it would not necessarily oppose the Government’s bid to hire a foreign Value-Added Tax (VAT) ‘legal consultant’.

Development Bank: Less than 30% of loans 'good'

Less than 30 per cent of the Bahamas Development Bank’s (BDB) outstanding loan portfolio was ‘performing’ at year-end 2013, with the taxpayer underwriting its operations via multi-million dollar annual subsidies.

New insurer in 'softly, softly' build to 2015

A newly-formed insurer yesterday said it was aiming to ramp up its market presence in early 2015 through the launch of “a full range” of life products, together with disability coverage targeting Bahamian professionals.

Hotel union rejects TUC chief criticism on Baha Mar lay-offs

The hotel union yesterday rejected criticism of its actions over Baha Mar’s recent 190 lay-offs, saying it would have done “everything in its power” to aid them had it been a party to the Heads of Agreement with the Government.

Upcoming months to define Bahamas 'for next 40 years'

The Government is undertaking reforms to its financial management system, a Cabinet Minister said yesterday, noting that it was seeking to improve its ability to allocate and track public funds.

Water Corp targets 10bn gallon saving

Some 10 billion gallons of water will be saved over the decade-long project to reduce leakages from the Water and Sewerage Corporation’s infrastructure, with losses already slashed by 29 per cent.

Shanae signs letter of intent to join Bulldogs

AFTER a stellar freshman season on the junior college circuit and proving herself as one of the best players in the country on the Bahamian national team, Shanae Armbrister will test her mettle next season against National Collegiate Athletic Association competition.

Minnis cannot cut the mustard

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Morgue ministry

O N ANY given day, family members gather outside of the morgue to identify their loved ones. It is heartbreaking to hear their cries after the viewing for identification. If you have never had to endure the anguish of this procedure, you have no idea what is involved.

'A faithful walk'

By Vanessa C Smith

Tile King showcases latest product range

Tile King held a two-day seminar and certification course for the construction industry this week to introduce its new Wedi Systems product to the Bahamas.

Cable invests $3m with eye on mobile

Cable Bahamas has invested $3 million to upgrade service quality on its fixed-line REVOICE network.

Island Luck names Board of directors

Playtech Systems, trading as Island Luck, has announced the appointment of its Board of Directors.

Businesses must keep doors open in crisis

What is the purpose of your business? Should it die with you, or should it continue regardless of the disasters or tragic events that may present themselves? What have you determined to be a disaster for your business?

27 years of pastoral service celebrated

UNDER the theme “Anointed To Carry The Glory”, Bishop Arnold Josey and Elder Vernita Josey along with members of the Commonwealth Mission Baptist celebrated 27 years of pastoral ministry. State Bishop Josey, a prot�g� of the late Rev Dr R E Cooper, Sr, was commissioned as pastor in September 1987, and continues to serve diligently. Bishop Josey, along with his wife, Elder Vernita Josey, their children, as well as dedicated members and officers continue to live by the church’s motto: “The community church, where the invisible Christ is made visible.”

GB entrepreneurs hold VAT bootcamp

Two Grand Bahama entrepreneurs attracted 80 business persons to a VAT Bootcamp seminar held earlier this month.

Hollywood comes to Grand Bahama Prominent SDA preacher to attend Freeport conference

THE Ministry of Tourism has extended their support to the Freeport Seventh Day Adventist Church in holding their 2014 Strong Faith Leadership Conference from November 21–23 at the Grand Lucayan Resort.

Bahamians give thanks

SOMEONE asked the question, “If you are doing something, shouldn’t you know what you are doing?”

Baha Mar to host regional summit

Baha Mar recently hosted members of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) during a two-day forum that was the forerunner for the first-ever Sino-Americas Summit. This will be held at Baha Mar in July 2015.

'Love Yaself'

By Allison Miller

Oil drilling in the Bahamas

EDITOR, The Tribune

Time for the bank system to be changed

Re: Article “Why do we put up with these banks?”

Immigration

Response to The Nassau Guardian’s Editorial of Monday November 17, 2014 - Mitchell’s Citizenship Warning was Unhelpful

Get courts working as fast as possible

EDITOR, The Tribune.

VAT answers

EDITOR, The Tribune.

The Forgotten Seed

FINDING beauty in the mundane and discarded is the focus of artist Keisha Oliver’s “The Forgotten Seed” series. Now mounted in the Grand Hyatt at Baha Mar, the portraits depict the inconspicuous beauty of a coconut seed.

YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: BOB's lucrative partnership poses questions on ethics

YET again, the Bank of the Bahamas’ (BOB) corporate governance is requiring more scrutiny with the bank’s partnership with the Brickell Management Group, the management company for Venetian West, which is a gated community development purportedly headed by Island Luck owner Sebas Bastian. According to representatives of the management company, their partnership with the Bank of the Bahamas (BOB) will result in that credit facility providing an “exclusive” financing package for potential buyers.

Arianna earns third gold at CAC Games

Arianna Vanderpool-Wallace is having a big splash inside the Leyes de Reforma Aquatic Center at the XXII Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico.

FNM ‘shoulder to shoulder’ with PLP on immigration

THE Free National Movement stands “shoulder to shoulder” with the Christie administration as it executes new immigration restrictions that were implemented earlier this month to tackle illegal migration, said party leader Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday.

Hospital workers ‘deeply saddened’ by colleague’s death

DOCTORS Hospital CEO Charles Sealy yesterday said the hospital’s entire staff is “deeply saddened” by the brutal murder of a man they all grew to know and love as “family.”

FNM leader race 'close' says Watson

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister and FNM stalwart Frank Watson said yesterday that he expects this Friday’s leadership race between Dr Hubert Minnis and Loretta Butler-Turner to be a close one.

Tourist: I was victim of sex attack by jet ski operators

A TOURIST has claimed to have developed post traumatic stress disorder following an encounter near Paradise Island with jet ski operators who allegedly tried to sexually assault her.

Family’s bodies flown home to New Providence

THE bodies of the young family of three that was killed in the tragic plane crash in Grand Bahama ten days ago arrived in New Providence yesterday.

Webshop legislation to be enacted by government on Monday

THE first webshop licenses are expected to be issued by May 2015, Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe said yesterday, adding that the legislation that will regulate the gambling operations of webshops will be enacted into law next Monday.

Mitchell in talks in US to clarify immigration ‘misconceptions’

FOREIGN Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said he expects to hold discussions with two major international organisations in Washington, DC, next week to clarify “misinformation” about the government’s controversial new immigration restrictions.

Three shot dead in just 12 hours

THREE men were killed in three separate shooting incidents in less than 12 hours, taking the country’s murder toll for the year to 106.

Boxing team hopes to bring home more medals

THE three-member boxing team is heading off to Veracruz, Mexico, today where they hope to return from the XXII Cental American and Caribbean Games in two weeks with medals around their necks.

Human trafficker jailed but 'young enough to be reformed'

THE country’s second convicted human trafficker was sentenced to three years and eight months in prison yesterday in Magistrate’s Court.

Baptiste hits out at 'compromise'

HAITIAN rights activist Jetta Baptiste yesterday said the United Association of Haitians and Bahamians has “compromised” with the government on its new immigration policies.

BISX listee's main owner 'fears' for $4-5m stake

Liquidators for a collapsed $471 million fund structure yesterday said they were “very concerned” about continued losses that are undermining the value of a $4-$5 million equity stake in a BISX-listed company, which they are attempting to “monetise”.

Cybots rout Cleaners 104-71, Wreckers clip Rockets 87-86

WHILE the Mail Boat Cybots pulled off a rout, the Y-Care Wreckers had to go right down to the wire before they prevailed in the New Providence Basketball Association’s double header at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Monday night.

All Dead, All Gone – Joann Behagg's exhibition aims to bring awareness to failing fishing industry

LAST evening, Joann Behagg transformed the Doongalik Studios on Village Road into a ceramic showcase as she presents an exhibition entitled “All Dead, All Gone”.

Pintard aims for chairman role

WITH the backing of senior party members, Senator Michael Pintard is expected to announce his candidacy for chairman of the FNM tonight in Nassau.

Former PM Ingraham pays tribute to Warren Levarity

FORMER Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham yesterday saluted ex-Cabinet minister and Grand Bahama MP Warren Levarity, 82, who died on Sunday after a lengthy illness, as a patriot and someone who devoted his life to improving the Bahamas.

Accused claims ankle monitor shows he was not near the scene of attempted murder

ONE of two men who denied committing attempted murder criticised the justice system when their case was forwarded to Supreme Court yesterday.

Bert Williams exhibition may come to Nassau

AN exhibition at the Museum of Modern Arts (MOMA) in New York City on the late Bahamian actor Bert Williams, which has gotten rave reviews, may be duplicated in Nassau soon.

Sports in brief

THE CV Bethel Stingrays clinched the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association senior boys title behind the impressive most valuable player (MVP) honours by Ramon Miller, who actually produced a GSSSA scoring record in the process.

Baha Mar artists are Eleven Strong

AS part of their latest endeavours, Baha Mar’s art team, The Current, last week presented an exhibition entitled “Eleven Strong”. The event was held at The Glass Bridge Gallery at the Melia Nassau Beach and featured works by 11 Bahamian artists with active practices. With their work, the artists all sought to shift the existing dialogue about Bahamian art by presenting a contemporary spectrum for consideration.

The lady pirates of the Caribbean

The legendary Anne Bonny and Mary Read hold a special place in the annals of piracy in the Bahamas. Sir Christopher Ondaatje recounts their extraordinary tales of disguise and daring

$6.2m drug suspect denied bail by court

A GRAND Bahama man was denied bail yesterday after being arraigned in connection with the $6.2m drug seizure in the nation’s second city.

Top QC: Freeport 'can't be family feudal preserve'

A prominent QC has backed an alternative route to “devolution” of the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) quasi-governmental powers, while agreeing that Freeport should not be “the feudal preserve of two families”.

VAT to produce 'positive' private sector shake-out

Value-Added Tax (VAT) will create a “positive shake-out” in the Bahamian private sector, the Tax Coalition’s chairman yesterday suggesting it would help to eliminate “corrupt and unethical business owners”.

Food retailer: 'I've been to the grave and back'

A major food retail/wholesale operator yesterday vowed to survive despite having to cut some employees’ hours, telling this newspaper: “I’ve already been to the grave and back”.

RBC hands final funds for tuition help to BTVI students

THE third and final installment of RBC Royal Bank’s $30,000 commitment to the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) to provide tuition assistance to three promising students - Victorian Knowles, Dexter Laidley and Philip Curling - has been made.

BTVI donates to Sister Sister

THE Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group has received a helping hand from the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) in the fight against breast cancer.

Bahamas Waste: 'Big concerns' over VAT's receivables impact

Bahamas Waste yesterday said it was taking “a wait and see “ approach to Value-Added Tax (VAT), with its “biggest concerns” centred on its $2 million-plus receivables and fears it may have to ‘carry’ non-paying customers.

Nursing graduates honoured in ceremony

NINE graduates of the College of the Bahamas nursing programme have been recognised at the first pinning ceremony in Grand Bahama at Pelican Bay.

The 39 Steps premieres this weekend

AUDIENCES will get the opportunity to view a world-class comedic drama on a local stage this weekend when four Bahamian actors perform their version of “The 39 Steps”.

VAT unlikely to replace Stamp Duty for 2-3 years

A leading realtor believes the Government is unlikely to replace Stamp Duty on property transactions with Value-Added Tax (VAT) for two-three years, giving it time to assess the latter’s revenue performance.

MARKETING REVOLUTION: Giving 'what', not 'how' can create big pay-off

I do not follow the motto that “you get what you pay for”. I think one of the problems that many businesses face is that they charge before they give value. For example, I am in the consulting business. One of the best things about writing this column is when people stop me and ask me for advice on business or marketing, or an idea that they have. I view this as a great opportunity for themselves and me.

LETTER TO THE BUSINESS EDITOR: A taxpayer gift to private shareholders

Years of poor management, poor lending discipline and politically-related loans have led Bank of the Bahamas (BoB) to a loan book where 39 per cent ent of total credit was non-accrual (impaired) at June 30, 2014. No, that was not a typo, 39 per cent. For perspective, a non-accrual ratio of 3 per cent or less is considered healthy, and Commonwealth Bank had a respectable 4 per cent ratio at year-end.

Chamber unveils its energy forum

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) will next Wednesday host the Bahamas Energy Security Forum 2014 at the British Colonial Hilton Hotel.

Entrepreneurs given eight keys to success

New and existing entrepreneurs and business owners participated in the Entrepreneur Empowerment Workshop, hosted by Mark A. Turnquest and The Small Business Resource Centre, on November 8.

No lack of patriotism in pursing dreams

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Carnival Group Enigma is 'Unleashed'

AFTER months of preparing, the Enigma Bahamas Carnival Group hosted their official mega launch party last Saturday.

Why tragedy before wisdom?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THINGS2DO

Thursday, November 20

Briefly

Jessie Ware pic in Ique

Neymour responds to headline

EDITOR, The Tribune

Acclaimed filmmaker to run local boutique cinema

THE Island House (TIH) has announced the appointment of award-winning Bahamian director Kareem Mortimer to oversee the boutique hotel’s new cinema programme.

Uppercut aims to have the upper hand in music

EVER since the band Uppercut started their live monthly concerts they have been garnering a steady following on Grand Bahama. Now, they will return this month to deliver a unique musical experience for their audiences.

Businesswoman encourages others to: Be Amazing

IN HONOUR of Global Entrepreneurship Week, Bahamian success coach and author Sharell Carroll said she is excited to present her third annual Constellations Professional Mixer this Thursday where she hopes to encourage individuals to “be amazing” in their own unique way.

POLITICOLE: HEAD TO HEAD

THE duel for leadership in the Free National Movement (FNM) looks like infighting. It’s not a good or a strong look.

Why are the Constitutional Bills being delayed?

PRIME Minister Christie, who in 2002 successfully led his party to defeat the FNM’s referendum that would have given equality to Bahamian women, boasted at the time that Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham could not get such a referendum through, but he – Perry Christie — could and would.

Food stores to be policed over VAT price rises

PRIME Minister Perry Christie said yesterday that the government will police food stores across the country to ensure they do not raise their prices without justification as the implementation date for value-added tax nears.

Wells ‘will not speak about letter of intent’

BAMBOO Town MP Renward Wells has said he would not speak in the House of Assembly when it resumes on the controversial $650 million letter of intent with Stellar Waste Management insisting that “nothing else needs to be said” because he has sufficiently explained his position in the past weeks.

Stabbed to death hours before her birthday

HOURS before she would have celebrated her 22nd birthday, Carmin Jean was stabbed to death during a domestic dispute with her boyfriend late Sunday night.

Human rights violations concern from Amnesty

AMNESTY International yesterday expressed concern over the application of the Bahamas’ new immigration policy, fearing it has led to human rights violations.

Pilot had tried to land prior to hitting crane

THE PILOT of the ill-fated Learjet that crashed into a junk pile nine days ago “attempted to land at least once” before smashing into a crane at the Grand Bahama Shipyard, according to an official close to the investigation.

Man shot dead as he unloaded his car

A MAN was shot in front of his home in the Cowpen Road area last night as he unloaded items from his car, police said.

PM: Immigration backlash alarm

PRIME Minister Perry Christie admitted yesterday that he was “worried” about the firestorm of international criticism that the government has been receiving because of its new immigration restrictions.

BTC to be $1m title sponsor for Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival

BAHAMAS Telecommunications Company’s community support in youth, sports and culture is continuing with its $1m title sponsorship of Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival as it becomes the first corporate partner to join the new tourism initiative.

Cosmetic gynaecology gaining momentum

COSMETIC gynaecology has steadily been gaining momentum in recent years, with more and more women looking at it as a viable option for a range of problems.

SAC completes clean sweep of BAISS softball championships

Saint Augustine’s College completed a clean sweep of the four BAISS softball championships as the senior boys crushed Nassau Christian Academy Crusaders 32-5 in four innings and the junior girls outlasted the St Andrew’s Hurricanes 8-4 in yesterday’s deciding third games at Freedom Farm.

Baha Mar lay-offs show how Bahamian worker 'compromised'

Baha Mar’s recent 190 lay-offs show how Bahamian workers have been “seriously compromised”, a union leader last night using the episode to slam his own, as well as the Government and foreign developers.

'Iconic' retailer mulling closure

An “iconic” 92 year-old Palmdale-based furniture retailer yesterday revealed it was assessing the “possibility” of closing down by year-end, causing the potential loss of 20 jobs.

Teachers hold sit-in amid fears over school safety

DAYS after an “irate” parent walked onto their campus to confront a school official, teachers at C H Reeves Junior High School held a short sit-in yesterday over safety concerns.

PM says plan for the future will bring about a stronger Bahamas

PRIME Minister Perry Christie said the country’s economy is set to be revolutionised as a result of the government’s National Development Plan – Vision 2040 – which was launched yesterday.

Clearing out the cattails

THE problem of choking cattails at the Harrold and Wilson Ponds National Park is being tackled by the Bahamas National Trust with the help of dedicated volunteers from the Delta Epsilon Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.

Students ready to take up Marathon Bahamas challenge

TOP student athletes are about to go the distance in the fight against cancer by competing in the 2015 Marathon Bahamas relay on January 18.

Neymour says Minnis has the advantage in contest

PHENTON Neymour, former State Minister for Environment, yesterday suggested that incumbent FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis has the advantage over his rival Loretta Butler-Turner, the party’s current deputy leader.

Smith 'incorrect' in claims over new immigration rules

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has branded recent remarks made by president of the Grand Bahama Human Rights Association Fred Smith over its new immigration restrictions as a “grave error”.

Murder trial delayed

A JURY was empanelled yesterday in the Supreme Court trial of a man facing a murder charge, but the start was delayed by legal discussions between prosecution and defence counsel before presiding judge Justice Indra Charles.

Drug suspects are remanded in custody

THREE men from San Salvador were remanded to the Department of Correctional Services yesterday after being accused of conspiring to supply dangerous drugs reportedly found in their possession.

Man accused of three attempted murder faces court

A MAN is facing up to life imprisonment if convicted of three attempted murder charges for which he was arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

Commercial real estate VAT change 'a minor victory'

The Bahamas Real Estate Association’s (BREA) president yesterday hailed the Government’s u-turn on commercial property Value-Added Tax (VAT) as “a small victory”, and expressed hope it would listen to the industry’s other tax reform concerns.

Compliance, 'first timers' slow VAT registration pace

The Value-Added Tax (VAT) registration process has been slowed because many businesses did not realise they had to be current with other taxes to complete this process, Tribune Business was told yesterday.

VAT to stop Business Licence fee 'fudging'

A leading realtor yesterday said the Government could enjoy a major Business Licence fee increase in coming years due to its tax reform policies, with companies no longer able to “fudge the books”.

Meacher 'Pain' Major to square off with Brazilian Roger Rosa on December 5

AFTER a year of inactivity, Meacher ‘Pain’ Major is preparing to return to the boxing ring where he will take on the same opponent that he faced in his last appearance.

Swimmers advance to finals at the CAC Games

ALL three Bahamians in action in the pool yesterday advanced out of the heats into the final of their respective events at the XXII Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico.

Man dead after traffic accident

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding a traffic accident that left a man dead on Sunday night.

Financial industry honours 3w2 persons

THE Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) honoured 32 persons for their contribution to the industry’s growth and development at its 14th annual Excellence Awards Dinner.

'Sister, Sister' urges women to get breast cancer gene test

“KNOW your BRCA status” is one of the key messages that the Sister, Sister breast cancer survivors support group left Bahamians with at the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Dr Munroe's legacy

EDITOR, The Tribune.

PM: National Plan wait a 'damnable omission'

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Unmasking root canal therapy

THE medical health writer Dr Joseph Mercola publishes articles on root canal therapy several times a year. In his articles, he advises all his readers never to have a root canal therapy performed.

Tourism industry urged: Avoid 'mad rush' on VAT

The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) has urged tourism-related companies to become VAT registrants now and avoid the “mad rush” that will occur by waiting until the November 30 deadline.

Chicago firm takes over management at Bimini Big Game

A Chicago-based hotel group has taken over the management of the Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina.

Bank in special Xmas dividend

Commonwealth Bank’s 6,000-plus shareholders will have a little more money to spend during the holidays this year when the bank issues a pre-Christmas extraordinary dividend of $0.06 per share.

Task Force expects VAT register 'spike'

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Poor people's children

THIS came to mind as I sat and witnessed the outpouring of sympathy when someone got murdered the other day.

Police promotions welcomed

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Bahamian documentary to explore 'Perfect Feet'

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

An absurd threat

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Baha Mar launches 'recruitment nation'

Baha Mar yesterday launched its new employee recruitment advertising campaign, entitled: ‘Baha Mar Nation’.

VAT border deferral branded 'big help' to manufacturers

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Sports notes

BOWLING

When chiropractic is right for you

By Dr Christie  Prosper

Views from atop the hill

Have you ever driven past Government House and considered what life is like on Mount Fitzwilliam?

INSIGHT: Today's youth, tomorrow's leaders

Can the Bahamas, a society where seniority is prized, really afford to disregard the voice of youth? Rashad Rolle hears why the world is waking up to the need to shift from adultism and why the country is in danger of being left behind.

Butler-Turner ‘more than confident’ of victory

WITH LESS than a week left until the Free National Movement’s one day convention, FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner said she is “more than confident” she will emerge as the party’s new leader.

Haiti delegation to have talks

HAITIAN Foreign Affairs Minister Duly Brutus yesterday said bilateral meetings with the Bahamas government over its new immigration policy is a top priority as Haiti does not have the capacity to meet regularisation demands.

Woman stabbed to death in fight

A WOMAN died after being stabbed multiple times following an argument last night - and police have arrested her boyfriend as a suspect in the crime.

Three held as drugs worth $6.2m seized

THREE Bahamian men are in custody following a $6.2m drug bust in Grand Bahama early yesterday morning, the largest “compressed” drug discovery in recent history on the island according to police.

Haitian group rejects boycott

THE United Association of Haitians and Bahamians has publicly denounced the “vicious and unfair” comments of a Florida politician and a Haitian-Bahamian activist whom they said were “misinformed” and could not speak for those at the centre of the government’s new immigration policies.

Son tells of hardest week after death of Dr Myles Munroe

MYLES Chairo Munroe, the son of Dr Myles and Ruth Munroe, said the week following the death of his parents in a plane crash was the hardest for him and his sister Charisa as they grapple with life in the aftermath of the tragedy that killed seven other people.

Water sports operators hold talks with ministry over safety of tourists

TRANSPORT and Aviation ministers have met water sports owners and operators in New Providence to discuss ways in which operators can provide “better and safer service” to tourists visiting the country.

PLP chairman urges more action on crime

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Bradley Roberts said the scourge of crime must not weaken the government as he urged officials to implement all of the plans contained in the Urban Renewal 2.0 programme.

Nursing awards honour the nation's best

THE work of nurses in the Bahamas was recognised at the inaugural Nurses Association of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas Zenith Awards in front of hundreds at Government House with an address by the Prime Minister, whose mother was one of the founder members of the organisation.

Keeping a promise to restore historic kitchen

STUDENTS have kept a promise to carry out a restoration of a kitchen in Cat Island as part of a youth project.

Bahamas debt higher than '2/3 of world'

The Bahamas may be the least indebted tourism-based economy in the Caribbean, but a top International Monetary Fund (IMF) executive has warned its debt-to-GDP ratio is higher than “two-thirds” of other countries.

Rollins recommendation ‘by end of month’

THE Progressive Liberal Party’s disciplinary committee appointed to decide on the fate of embattled Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins is expected to make its formal recommendation to the leadership council by the end of this month, party chairman Bradley Roberts said yesterday.

Arianna strikes gold

Arianna Vanderpool-Wallace made Bahamian history yet again and Joanna Evans continued her torrid pace on the year with another medal in international competition.

Woman, daughter and son injured in drive-by shooting

A WOMAN, her teenage daughter and son were treated in hospital after they were injured in a drive by shooting Friday evening.

'Making a mockery' of gaming industry

THE Gaming Bill 2014 “makes a mockery” of international regulatory standards because it allows the minister responsible to override a key test for industry ownership, the DNA’s leader believes.

'No doubt' web shop interest in Bank of Bahamas

THE DNA’s leader says there is “no doubt” that web shop industry players may be interested in acquiring Bank of the Bahamas, although such a move would not sit well with the global financial services industry and its regulators.

Bank eyes 'huge' $5m fee increase for 2014

COMMONWEALTH Bank believes it will incur an almost-$5 million licence fee increase for the 2014 full-year, but still expects to notch “a notable achievement” by coming close to matching last year’s $54.506 million bottom line.

QC promises new 'road to success' in Customs fight

A WELL-KNOWN QC has pledged to take “a different road to success” in a battle with Bahamas Customs, adding that the Privy Council’s refusal to grant his law firm leave to appeal is “not the end”.

Company dissolutions online by 2015's Q1

VOLUNTARY company dissolutions are expected to be available online within the 2015 first quarter, the Attorney General has revealed.

Call to North Korea over nuclear plans

MINISTERIAL-level meetings between the Japanese government and CARICOM member states ended last night with a strong appeal to North Korea over denuclearisation and humanitarian concerns.

Forbes seeks concessionary loans for Family Islands

THE Bahamas has appealed for concessionary loans to boost infrastructure development of disadvantaged Family Islands during bilateral meetings with the Japanese government.

'Deficient laws' undermine BDB

THE “deficient and archaic” laws governing the Bahamas Development Bank’s (BDB) operations are at the root of its challenges, its managing director charging that current legislation provides management with little power and autonomy.

Exuma in airlift increase of 17%

EXUMA’S airlift is up 17 per cent year-over-year, although air arrivals to Nassau/Paradise Island have only shown a slight increase year-to-date.

NCAA: Buddy Hield puts up a record performance

THE men’s NCAA basketball season tipped off this weekend in the United States and several Bahamian players took to the court for their respective division I universities.

Sports World expresses condolences

SPORTS World, an organisation comprising former professional athletes who share their personal life experiences with students, helping them to recognise the consequences of their choices while challenging them with a message of hope, joined the Bahamian community in expressing condolences for the loss of Dr Myles Munroe and his party in the plane crash last week.

Pros stun the Giants 105-96

THE Island Luck Pros surprised the defending champions to join the Read Deal Shockers with a perfect two wins, no losses record for the season on Saturday night in New Providence Basketball Association play at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.

Rim Shot takes Nassau Cup after light wind slows leaders

IT was a “death from behind” year for the 2014 Miami-Nassau Cup Race, with slower boats riding new breeze right up to the leaders on the final leg to Nassau Harbour, the entire fleet finishing within two and a half hours of each other on Friday evening.

Cuckoos beat Buccaneers 19-14 to open new season

THE Bahamas Rugby Football Union kicked off its 2014-15 season on Saturday at the Winton Rugby Field with a thrilling finish to the first match in the Nassau Cup series.

Proud to make history

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Golden Gates co-ed, Macedonia still undefeated

GOLDEN Gates co-ed and Macedonia men remain undefeated in the Coca-Cola Softball Classic as the Baptist Sports Council completed another week of its short regular season action at the Bankers Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

The end for BTC?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

MACEDONIA dominates BSC Track and Field Classic

MACEDONIA dominated the delayed Baptist Sports Council (BSC) Track and Field Classic on Saturday at the original Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium, finishing with 609 points.

Creation of corruption

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Applications for funding

THE British High Commission in Jamaica is inviting applications by human rights-related projects in need of funding from the Human Rights and Democracy Programme for next year.

Counting down to jollification

THE Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) annual Christmas Jollification will open to the public at the weekend.

Dr Myles Munroe’s last moments revealed

DR MYLES Munroe was talking on his cell phone with pastors of Bahamas Faith Ministries (BFM) in Freeport, Grand Bahama, when his Lear Jet crashed on Sunday, killing all nine on board.

Workers devastated by colleague’s death in crash

WORKERS at the Freeport Container Port are devastated by the death of their employee relations manager Lisa Gibson, who was killed in a traffic accident on Queen’s Highway on Thursday evening.

24-year-old man shot dead in Pinewood area

POLICE are investigating a murder in Pinewood yesterday that left a 24-year-old man dead.

BFM announces events to honour Dr Myles Munroe

BAHAMAS Faith Ministries (BFM) Senior Pastor and Board of Governors chairman Dave Burrows announced yesterday a series of events in honour of Dr Myles Munroe, who perished along with eight others, including his wife Ruth, in Sunday’s plane crash in Grand Bahama.

Gunmen shoot woman and her son and daughter

A woman and her teenage son and daughter are in hospital after being shot on Friday night.

Man accused of owning dangerous drugs

By LAMECH JOHNSON

Corrections officer faces seven years if convicted

By LAMECH JOHNSON

One woman dead, another critical in hospital after Grand Bahama car crash

A WOMAN driver died and her passenger is in hospital in critical condition following a traffic accident in west Grand Bahama last night.

Body of man found after fire destroys building

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of an adult male body burnt beyond recognition early yesterday morning.

FNM Chairman claims bank chief is in ‘feud’ with PM

FNM Chairman Darron Cash claimed yesterday that Managing Director of the Bahamas Development Bank Arinthia Komolafe, Prime Minister Perry Christie and State Minister for Finance Michael Halkitis are “embroiled in an ongoing feud” over recent firings at the bank.

Correctional officer held over drugs at prison

A 51-year-old correctional officer is in police custody after he was arrested at the prison on Wednesday afternoon accused of possessing dangerous drugs with intent to supply.

Bishop: Tell Haitians to respect the law

A PROMINENT religious leader yesterday called on Haitian pastors in the country to urge their members not to follow anyone who encourages a “blatant disrespect” of the laws of the Bahamas.

‘Loretta will be Better’ jingle ramps up leadership campaign

WITH the Free National Movement’s convention a week away, leadership contender Loretta Butler-Turner has ramped up her campaign with the release of a jingle.

Civil rights activist pays tribute to Dr Myles Munroe

AMBASSADOR and civil rights activist Andrew Young said although Dr Myles Munroe has “gone to glory” his mission will continue with another generation through the messages in his books and his teachings.

Court of Appeal told four men can’t be found

FOUR men separately acquitted in the Supreme Court of a murder and a triple attempted murder cannot be found, the Court of Appeal was told yesterday.

Appeal over life sentence for murder of 10-year-old

THE Court of Appeal yesterday reserved its decision on the appeal of a former death row inmate who wants a reduction on his life sentence for the murder of a 10-year-old boy.

'Why replace Stamp Duty with the VAT?'

The Bahamas Real Estate Association’s (BREA) president yesterday questioned why the Government would even contemplate replacing Stamp Duty on property transactions with Value-Added Tax (VAT), adding that she had shown why there was no need to impose the latter on the industry.

Banks running out of time over 'scary' VAT

The looming Value-Added Tax (VAT) implementation was yesterday said to be getting “scary” for commercial banks, who are running out of time to make critical system adjustments.

Festive fun at Kelly's as Toyland and Fantasy Forest are opened

THE arrival of Santa Claus and Snowbear signalled the opening of Kelly’s House & Home’s Toyland and Fantasy Forest last Saturday and was greeted with cheers and laughter from hundreds of children and adults.

Sorority makes the grade with school supplies donation

AS PART of its educational development initiatives, the Nassau Bahamas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority donated about 400 bags filled with supplies to local schools in the past month. The items were collected during the Sorority’s Southern Regional Conference in July.

Thanks for donations when buying poppies

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Latin and Central American filmmakers to attend BIFF

FOR the first time in its 11 years, the Bahamas International Film Festival will have filmmakers from Latin and Central America at its annual festival next month.

CBC on their marks for Bahamas half marathon

THE Caribbean Bottling Company will be the official water provider for the Bahamas Roadmasters Half Marathon and 10k, which starts and finishes at Arawak Cay on Sunday, November 23.

Dr Julius Garvey addresses COB

WHEN Pan-Africanist Dr Julius Garvey speaks about the dislocation of African people, the breach they have endured and the African diaspora, people listen.

Atlantis employees get together for annual golf tournament at Ocean Club

ATLANTIS employees took to the Ocean Club Golf Course this week in the annual Employee Golf Tournament. Under clear skies and breezy conditions the group enjoyed an amazing day on the near perfect golf course.

McPhee-McCuin, Dolphins sign Grand Bahama native Neely

IN her second season as Jacksonville University Dolphins head coach, Yolett McPhee-McCuin has used her influence to give the programme a distinct Bahamian feel.

'Team Beastmode' trio in Combat Nights

EMPIRE Mixed Martial Arts will once again look to the state of Florida to field bouts for its “Team Beastmode” group of fighters.

Elite, developmental sports programme supports athletic achievement at The Lyford Cay International School

STUDENTS with exceptional athletic ability at The Lyford Cay International School (LCIS) now have new support for their ambitious goals: The Elite and Developmental Sports Programme (EDS).

Ferguson named to All-Star team for a stellar season

HIS collegiate career ended with a loss, but Demetrius Ferguson still had a successful year as he ended his tenure with the St Francis Xavier X-Men.

Nassau hub key to regional passenger growth

TRANSPORT and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said yesterday that the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) could serve as a hub for Latin America and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) member airlines, noting that the Bahamas’ main airport was currently operating at only half its capacity.

Bank 'Resolve' could help mortgage relief

A top banker yesterday suggested the ‘Bahamas Resolve’ concept could be expanded to deal with other commercial bank ‘bad loans’, and potentially kickstart the Government’s stalled Mortgage Relief Plan.

$106m needed to fix Family Islands water supply

THE Water & Sewerage Corporation (WSC) needs $106m to upgrade its supply and distributions systems in the Family Islands, a senior corporation executive has revealed.

South America "ripe" for more Bahamian airlift

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Latest Fidelity payout increases dividends 78%

Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) yesterday announced a further $0.15 per share dividend payment, pushing shareholder returns for the year-to-date some 78 per cent higher than in 2013.

Cellular bidder brings 'best of both worlds'

By NEIL HARTNELL

Crafting clients for life

Carpentry is truly an art of its kind, especially when a wooden log that has passed through a carpenter’s hand earns its identity, character or appeal once crafted.

Bidding begins on second cellular licence

THE bidding process for the country’s second cellular provider licence begins today, Prime Minister Perry Christie said.

Airline chief says many factors may have led to crash

SKYBAHAMAS CEO and President Captain Randy Butler yesterday said “any number of factors,” including “weather phenomena” and “microbursts” could have caused Sunday’s fatal plane crash that killed Bahamas Faith Ministries International founder Dr Myles Munroe and eight others.

Black box analysis to begin in Washington

AN analysis of the cockpit voice recorder and digital electronic engine monitors that were on board the ill-fated Learjet that crashed in Grand Bahama on Sunday, killing Dr Myles Munroe and eight others, will begin today in Washington, DC.

Son vows to carry on Munroe's work

MYLES Chairo Munroe, the son of Dr Myles and Ruth Munroe, with his sister Charissa and other family members, stood bravely before the Global Leadership Forum and thanked everyone for the outpouring love and support following the tragic deaths of their parents, and the seven others who died on Sunday in a plane crash in Grand Bahama.

Haitian activist backs Florida politician '1,000%'

THE president of the Haitian Bahamian community in the Bahamas said yesterday she supports “1,000 per cent” Florida politician Daphne Campbell’s calls for tourists and international businesses to boycott the Bahamas because of the government’s new immigration policies.

BTC drops 40,000 calls a day but to spend $65m

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd has reduced its daily average of dropped calls to 40,000 from more than 70,000 and now expects fewer challenges, Chief Executive Officer Leon Williams said yesterday.

Disability commission to be appointed by December

THE National Commission for Disability could be appointed in less than a month, Social Services Minister Melanie Griffin said yesterday.

'King Eric All For One Regatta' has 'largest purse' in Bahamian history

IN an effort to pay homage to the memory of a Bahamian cultural icon, The “King” Eric Regatta Committee in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture and Local Government will host what they plan to be one of the biggest regattas in the country.

Crusaders stun Big Red Machine

The Nassau Christian Academy Crusaders stunned the St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine 15-13 in game 1 of the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) softball championships.

Faith United makes debut with 14-10 victory over St Paul's

FAITH United handed the Baptist Sports Council’s defending men’s champions St Paul’s Fox Hill their third consecutive loss as the 2014 Softball Classic continued on Tuesday night.

NCAA: Coleby to have increased role with the Ole Miss Rebels

LOOK for Bahamian sophomore forward Dwight Coleby to have an increased role with the University of Mississippi Rebels when the NCAA basketball season tips off this month.

NHI architects tout $160m benefit savings

The National Health Insurance (NHI) plan’s architects yesterday forecast that the scheme would generate almost $160 million in annual benefit savings by 2025, pledging that its impact would be “fiscally neutral”.

BTC to begin testing TV product in family islands

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd is expected in the coming weeks to begin beta testing its new Internet Protocol (IP) TV product in the Family Islands.

Death row inmate's appeal adjourned to allow more time to study transcripts

THE Court of Appeal granted the Crown’s request for an adjournment in the appeal of a man convicted of a paid execution.

Bell: Dredging has not begun at RBDF base

KEITH Bell, State Minister for National Security, yesterday denied that dredging has started at the Royal Bahamas Defence Force base in Coral Harbour.

Remembering Sir Clifford Darling

THE life and times of Sir Clifford Darling, the fourth Governor General of the Bahamas, is being depicted in a pictorial exhibition at the National Insurance Board headquarters in Nassau. Yesterday, the Labour and National Insurance Minister, Shane Gibson, and Sir Clifford’s widow, Lady Ingrid Darling, opened and unveiled the exhibition at Baillou Hill Road.

Teonya to be academic scholar

TEONYA Takahra Knowles, a graduate of St George’s High School, has become the latest recipient of an academic scholarship from the Grand Bahama Chapter of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA).

Teachers of tomorrow

FORTY-six tenth grade students from 14 New Providence high schools have been inducted into the Future Teachers of The Bahamas programme with hopes that they will be the potential 2017 intake at the School of Education at the new University of The Bahamas.

Paying tribute to traffic fatality victims

THE Road Traffic Department planted a Madeira tree along Lake Cunningham in memory of traffic fatality victims.

On Da Hook

WITH the break in the high winds over the past week, anglers have been making the most of the opportunity to hit some of their favourite fishing spots and been rewarded with fine Wahoo.

‘Sad week for the Bahamas’ after plane crash, says Williams

LEON Williams, Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd CEO, yesterday paid his respects to Bahamas Faith Ministries International Senior Pastor Dr Myles Munroe, one of nine people who died in Sunday’s tragic plane crash.

Top bankers praise Bahamas' 'terrific' response to OECD

Top private banking executives yesterday praised the Bahamas’ “terrific” response to international regulatory initiatives, explaining that compliance with these was “key” to their institution’s long-term presence in this nation.

Mobile bidder: 'Turn us on'

A leading contender for the Bahamas’ second mobile telecommunications licence last night urged the Government to “turn us on”, after it formally launched the bidding process.

Bahamas 'hub' on Lombard Odier's Latam expansion

Top Lombard Odier executives yesterday said they planned to use their Bahamas operation as “a hub” to support further expansion into Latin America, adding that this nation’s financial services industry was likely to join global consolidation trends.

Web shop competition to spur bank lay-offs

A senior commercial banking executive yesterday warned of more lay-offs, and potential closures, in the industry as a result of the increased competition that will likely be provided by legalised web shops.

BTC drives 40,000 to smart phones

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is aiming to drive some 40,000 mobile customers to upgrade to smart phone technology, its chief executive yesterday confirming the incumbent carrier will start testing its TV product in Bimini next week.

Court judgments only retroactive Credit bureau info

Only loan agreements entered into after the Credit Bureau’s introduction will be included in its records, the Central Bank Governor said yesterday, adding that the “only exception” would be outstanding court judgments.

Gov't sets out mobile liberalisation terms

The Government expects to award a second cellular license by April 2015 it was disclosed yesterday, with its Task Force announcing that tender documents would be launched today.

Talk to Haiti, Ms Campbell

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Long-serving Bahama Brass Band members to be honoured this Saturday

DURING its 89th year, five musicians who have collectively contributed 143 years to the brass band ministries of the Church of God of Prophecy will be honoured for their faithful stewardship to one of the oldest church brass bands in the country.

Shame on you, Renward Wells!

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Understanding the November 9 tragedy

By Canon S Sebastian Campbell

Briefly

ON OCTOBER 1, 608 Royal Bahamas Police Force officers were promoted throughout the ranks, from constables to assistant commissioners. In addition, several new ranks have been created to accommodate them.

A farewell to Manifest

LAST Sunday’s tragic plane crash on Grand Bahama claimed the lives of nine people, among them hip hop and gospel music pioneer Lavard “Manifest” Parks.

Bahamas' leading organists to play at Anglican Chorale Hymn Festival

THE Anglican Chorale offers its ninth annual eclectic sounds of hymns when it presents Preston R Ferguson, Sr, Jeffrey Sturrup and Edward Cox as organists this Sunday at the historic Christ Church Cathedral.

Living under two laws

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Spiritual harvests

By Rev Angela Bosfield

The world remembers Dr Myles Munroe

By ALESHA CADET

Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?

By Pastor Mario Moxey

Bank must restore its credibility after rescue

Now that the dust is slowly settling since the hastily-called press conference on October 31, we can see more clearly what happened and what it means for the future.

Fall for Bahari

AFTER the massive success of its initial Independence-inspired launch in July, the Bahari Bahamas label is back with a new fall collection.

Climate change on Japan agenda

TOKYO, Japan - Climate change and disaster risk reduction will take centre stage during the ministerial-level talks between Japan and CARICOM member states this week.

Blair killing suspect is denied bail

A MAN accused of the recent home invasion and murder in Blair Estates was remanded to prison yesterday with a second man alleged to be an accessory after the fact.

Final crash victim was US translator

A 38-year-old Colorado resident and evangelical minister has been identified by loved ones as the final passenger on the Lear 36 jet that crashed in Grand Bahama on Sunday, killing all nine on board, including religious leader Dr Myles Munroe.

Twin: I still hope it’s my sister when the phone rings

THE twin sister of one of the passengers killed in Sunday’s tragic plane crash, said yesterday that she is still living in denial, hoping that when the phone rings the voice on the other end of the line is that of her loved one.

BLACK BOX FOUND AT PLANE CRASH SITE; US man is named as last victim

INVESTIGATORS have found the cockpit voice recorder and the digital electronic engine monitors from the ill-fated Lear jet which crashed on Sunday in Grand Bahama, killing all nine people on board, including religious leader Dr Myles Munroe.

Chipman backs Mitchell over politician's call for a boycott

IMMIGRATION shadow minister Hubert Chipman yesterday said Florida politician Daphne Campbell was “totally out of order” for her calls this week for tourists and international businesses to boycott the Bahamas because of the government’s new immigration policies.

Wells slammed and told ‘not good enough’

FNM CHAIRMAN Darron Cash yesterday criticised Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells for choosing to “break his silence” on the Stellar Waste to Management letter of intent controversy during a time when the nation is in mourning.

Five more arrested in connection with Blair murder

POLICE arrested five additional men Monday afternoon in connection with the shooting death and armed robbery of Blair resident Andre Cartwright.

Suspects deny being at scene of Mackey murder

THE men to be tried in connection with the fatal shooting of Latore Mackey have denied being at the scene of crime.

PM: Job cuts ‘unfair’ - and protection is needed

PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday criticised last week’s terminations of 190 Crystal Palace workers by Baha Mar as “unfair” and said the Government needed to give hotel staff greater protection in future Heads of Agreements negotiated with foreign developers.

Second shooting of day may have been retaliation

A TEENAGER was shot multiple times early yesterday morning, minutes after he was reported to have been involved in another shooting four corners away that left a 20-year-old man in critical condition in hospital.

VAT's healthcare impact 'nothing short of stupid'

Value-Added Tax’s (VAT) design is “nothing short of stupid”, a leading physician warned yesterday, warning it would further weaken the Bahamian healthcare industry’s global competitiveness.

Former Cabinet minister Warren Levarity dies, aged 82

PRIME Minister Perry Christie expressed sadness over the death of former cabinet minister and Grand Bahama MP Warren J Levarity who died Sunday after “a lengthy illness”.

DNA criticises latest job losses

DNA Leader Branville McCartney said he has “no confidence” in the implementation of value added tax by a government that “can’t even get their disclosures right”.

Atlanta hip hop trio Migos to perform at Nassau concert

STARFORCE promotions will feature the popular Atlanta-based hip hop trio Migos in their ninth and last concert for the year this Friday.

New buses to help Urban Renewal with mission to help children

THE Urban Renewal Commission revealed a new “key component” in its effort to improve the lives of the children in urban communities in New Providence.

McCartney: I don't trust the govt with implementing VAT

DNA Leader Branville McCartney criticised the government over recent hotel job losses and said that the PLP’s promised “grandiose employment strategy” has “failed to come to fruition”. Mr McCartney said yesterday that the “highly touted” job creation promised by the Progressive Liberal Party during its campaign ahead of the 2012 general election has turned out to be “nothing more than another empty campaign promise”.

Artist Spotlight – Nevandria

A FORMER beauty pageant queen is seeking to establish a professional career as a musician and hopes to become a force to be reckoned with, both locally and internationally.

Impulse opens in style

IF LAST week was any indication of what Friday nights at the Impulse Lounge will be like, then party-goers are in for an exciting weekly experience at the newly renovated club.

First ever Sundance Beach Party ‘a huge success’

ALL OF the real soca warriors were in position when DJ Private Ryan started up the turntables last weekend. When his signature intro began to play, and the sounds from the first song of his mix filled the beach, hips began to gyrate, feet began to move and arms to sway. Such was the vibe all day during Sundance’s inaugural beach party on November 1.

Graycliff gets in the Christmas spirit with first annual festival

GRAYCLIFF is spreading holiday cheer with its first annual Heritage Village Christmas Festival to be held at the newly restored Mountbatten House.

Teenage sculptor gives shape to his dreams

IT ALL started with a science project for school. Working with clay to complete the assignment awakened in the then 12-year-old Clayton Miller a passion for the medium which he has been pursuing ever since.

Enigma in a rush for Bahamas Carnival

THE highly anticipated launch party to celebrate the new Enigma Bahamas Carnival Group will take place this Saturday under the theme “Unleashed”.

'Breaking ground' in the name of baseball

THE new Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium is expected to be completed in 2015 and heralds rapid expansion of the game of baseball in The Bahamas.

Rockets, Pros win in NPBA double header

THE New Providence Basketball Association’s season got in full swing with its first double header of the season at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Monday night.

$1.3m Scotiabank theft appeal delayed by trial transcripts

A NEW court date has been set for two former Scotiabank employees contesting conviction for theft of $1.3m from the bank’s Nicholl’s Town branch on North Andros.

PM brands 190 Crystal Palace lay-offs 'unfair'

Prime Minister Perry Christie yesterday blasted last week’s terminations of 190 Crystal Palace workers as “unfair”, and said the Government needed to give hotel staff greater protection in Heads of Agreements negotiated with foreign developers.

Gov’t eyes phased implementation for $600m NHI scheme

The Government is considering rolling out its National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme in a three-phase process that will ultimately create a package costing more than $600 million annually, the Prime Minister said yesterday.

Water Corp's 20% demand cut gives $1.7m in savings

The Water & Sewerage Corporation’s leak reduction initiative has cut water volumes purchased from its BISX-listed supplier by 20 per cent, it was revealed yesterday, slashing its top-line for the first nine months by 2014.

Debt growth rate targeted for 130 basis pts decline

The rate of growth in central government debt will drop to a five-year average of 11.4 per cent of GDP, as opposed to the current 12.7 per cent, if the Bahamas smoothly implements planned fiscal reforms.

US fraternity reaches out to help Bahamian children

AN American fraternity celebrating its centenary has been in the Bahamas this month helping a local primary school with a scheme to raise literacy standards among a number of other activities.

Jones pegged as a leader for Colonials in 'breakout year'

THE 2014-15 campaign is expected to be a breakout year for the George Washington Colonials and Bahamian forward Jonquel Jones.

English golfer Rose having a great time in the Bahamas

JUSTIN Rose, the English golfer, has moved his family from Florida to the Bahamas, where he has owned property at Albany for the last few years. The Roses moved after the Open Championship in July and have made that their permanent residence - at least for now.

Berry Islanders graduate from BTVI training course

BERRY Islanders have joined the ranks of graduates of a general maintenance course offered by the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute.

US Embassy helps to train drug treatment workers

WITH funding from the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, the US Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Section is partnering with the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre to create a cadre of internationally certified drug treatment staff in the Bahamas.

Two amateur boxers prospects for the 2020 Olympics

KEEPING with their mandate to increase the exposure of amateur boxing in the country, Champion Amateur Boxing Club (CABC) is in the process of fast tracking a pair of fighters as developmental prospects for the 2020 Olympics.

BORCO parent gains permission to appeal $17m damages limit

By NEIL HARTNELL

IWFS rocks Fort Charlotte

FASHION aficionados looking for a fulfilling experience were not disappointed with this year’s edition of the Islands of the World Fashion Showcase (IWFS).

HeadHere

• Ya Hear the Track Road Theatre is gearing up to present an exciting stage play in Nassau next week? John Buchan’s “39 Steps” comedic spy drama adapted by Patrick Barlow will be shown at the Dundas Theatre from November 20 - 23. The show will feature Bahamian entertainers Leslie Ellis-Tynes, Gail Hanna, Glenn Sherman, Jr and Rossano Deal. Show time is 8pm.

MARKETING REVOLUTION - Dr Myles Munroe: A true Marketing revolutionary

I was at a conference in Chicago when the waiter heard me speaking and asked: “Where are you from?” When I told him the Bahamas, he said: “Be sure to say hello to my brother, Dr Myles Munroe. I’m reading one of his books now.”

BNT reviews parks plans for GB

BAHAMAS National Trust executives have been meeting the Minister for Grand Bahama, Hutchinson officials and Grand Bahama Port Authority representatives to review the proposed new and extended parks for the island.

Saunders eyes deputy chairman post

FORMER FNM Deputy Secretary General Don Saunders has announced his intention to run for the post of deputy chairman at the Free National Movement’s convention this month.

Private-public linkages drive telecommunications

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) chief executive says there “has always been” a relationship between the private and public sectors in the country’s communictions market.

Reasons for concern over beach access

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Tourism moves on Middle East market

The Ministry of Tourism is looking to the Middle East as it seeks to diversify this nation’s source visitor markets and attract more tourists.

BEC ripping off the people

EDITOR, The Tribune

A return for Ingraham?

EDITOR, The Tribune

Palm Cay ahead of schedule for third condo phase launch

A southeastern New Providence real estate development yesterday said it will open reservations ahead of schedule for the third phase of its luxury condominium complex, The Anchorage, after demand outpaced supply in the first two phases.

POLITICOLE: Illegal immigrant sympathisers who attack Bahamas immigration law

IT comes as no surprise that the people with the loudest voices, with the most brazen of accusations about The Bahamas’ approach to the management of illegal immigrants and our level of “inhumanity” and “unChristianness” in the country are, in fact, not Bahamian, and/or are not living/have not lived in or near to the end results of illegal immigration in a small country of islands like ours.

A life without purpose is the greatest tragedy

DR Myles Munroe, with his wife, Ruth, and two leaders of his ministry, was killed when his plane crashed Sunday afternoon as it prepared to land in Freeport during a rainstorm. Dr Munroe, and the eight passengers in his Lear Jet with him, was on his way to Freeport to open his 2014 Global Leadership Forum.

Ingraham pays tribute to Munroe as an ‘inspiration to thousands’

FORMER Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham yesterday praised Dr Myles Munroe as an “inspiration to thousands of Bahamians” and followers around the world.

Faithful gather at Ministries prayer meeting

“WELCOME to day two of the new life of BFM.” Those were the words a senior pastor of Bahamas Faith Ministries (BFM) told congregants gathered for an emergency prayer meeting at BFM last night, a day after Dr Myles Munroe, his wife and seven others died in a plane crash.

Family who died were expecting another child

THE young family of three, instantly killed in Sunday’s plane crash, was expecting a child and had recently celebrated the purchase of a new home, compounding the grief of loved ones, according to family friend Arthia Nixon.

‘Black box crucial in crash probe’

Prime Minister Perry Christie and Minister of Transport and Aviation Glenys Hanna Martin yesterday visited the crash site at the Grand Bahama Shipyard, where the Lear 36 jet went down on Sunday killing Dr Myles Munroe, the president and founder of Bahamas Faith Ministries International, and eight others on board.

Minnis 'has advantage' in leadership battle

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Frank Watson yesterday said that FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis “has an advantage” over Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner in their battle for the party’s top post.

Florida politician calls for boycott of Bahamas

A FLORIDA lawmaker of Haitian descent vowed yesterday to stop at nothing until tourists and international businesses boycott this country because of controversial immigration policies that came into effect on November 1.

Hospital authority pays tribute to worker killed in plane he co-piloted

HERBERT Brown, Public Hospitals Authority Managing Director, yesterday said the death of Franhkan Cooper, one of the nine people killed in Sunday’s tragic plane crash in Grand Bahama, was “a bitter pill” to swallow as he remembered the 34-year-old as an employee with a heart for service.

Call to name street after Dr Myles Munroe

A LOCAL advocate has called on government to assure that internationally recognised pastor and author Dr Myles Munroe is remembered in history by naming a street after the “great Bahamian”.

Ranfurly hosts 'Love that Child' walkathon

FOR the first time ever, the Ranfurly Homes For Children played host to a Love That Child Walkathon and Fun Run last Saturday.

9th Annual Track Classic

THE Anglican Diocesan Youth Department hosted its 9th Annual Track Classic at the Thomas A Robinson Stadium of the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre over the weekend.

REVIEW: 'Gentle Giant': The Andre Rodgers Story'

“GENTLE Giant: The Andre Rodgers Story” uses baseball to tell the story of a life where sacrifice, family and legacy intersect as a young man was plucked from relative obscurity to become an ambassador and pioneer for a small island nation.

New Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium set for 2015 completion

With the new Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium set to be completed in 2015, the infrastructure will create a myriad of opportunities for local players, baseball development and the country’s sports tourism product.

Gov’t human resources, payroll failings exposed

Government personnel files “cannot be located 15 per cent of the time”, another report cataloguing further waste and inefficiency that ultimately costs the Bahamian taxpayer.

Bank of Bahamas: QC urges suit if 'no accountability'

A top QC yesterday urged minority Bank of the Bahamas shareholders to launch a ‘class action’ style lawsuit if the institution fails to fully account for its $100 million ‘rescue’ by the Government.

Top ballers making an impact in Europe

EARLY in their respective seasons, some of the country’s top national team members and prominent names in Bahamian basketball are adjusting well to their new surroundings on the European and Middle Eastern circuit.

Is your life out of balance?

THERE was a time in the not-so-distant past when families were expected to give up everything in order to achieve the level of financial security most craved.

What is the long-term impact of our 'nowness'?

DO WE ever think to teach the importance of good decision making and the impact a bad decision could have on the rest of our lives?

In the eye of the makeup artist

SHE started out in the unlikely field of banking, but today Lucy Lu is on her way to becoming one of the Bahamas’ leading makeup artists.

Dental care and diabetes

Whether you have type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, high blood sugar can affect your entire body, including your mouth.

Shoulder, arm and hand problems

YOUR brain “talks” with the rest of your body through a vast communications system mostly made up of nerves.

How to get perfect wedding day skin

MAINTAINING a skin care routine is not only vital to great looking skin on your wedding day, it also provides a perfect canvas for flawless makeup

Bahamas needs 'courage to change status quo'

The Government must summon “the courage to change the status quo” when it comes to efficient cash flow management, a leading private sector executive yesterday warning this was especially “crucial” given the Bahamas’ $5.8 billion national debt.

Bahamas must 'cast its net beyond tourism'

The Bahamas must “cast its net beyond tourism” to grow and diversify the economy, a private sector executive describing this as a key step in attracting more qualified professionals/university graduates back to this nation.

Atlantis ranked seventh in world for families

Atlantis has been ranked seventh on Travel+Leisure’s list for the World’s Best Hotels for Families, landing in the top tier for the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda.

Can cashiers be trusted?

EDITOR, The Tribune

Man convicted of killing friend in HIV row has appeal delayed

By LAMECH JOHNSON

Bimini first testing ground for BTC's TV

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) will use Bimini as the first testing ground for its news Internet Protocol (IP) TV product, with trials set to begin in two weeks.

Minnis, the grand flip-flopper

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Third Bahamian contender declares cellular intent

A Bahamian-led company has become the third local player to announce its intentions to bid on the second cellular licence, the tender for which is set to be launched shortly.

Atlantis 'stamps' mark on tourism anniversary

A commemorative stamp featuring Atlantis was recently unveiled as part of a series developed by the General Post Office to mark the Ministry of Tourism?s 50th Year of tourism.

Probation report not ready

By LAMECH JOHNSON

Are we in breach of our Constitution?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Mitchell 'deeply saddened' by death of Dr Munroe

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Fred Mitchell, who had a war of words with Dr Munroe earlier this year over gay rights, said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.

Man acquitted of stealing $150,000 from customer

By LAMECH JOHNSON

Man was shot dead as he was hanging clothes out to dry

By SANCHESKA BROWN

car theft ring suspects held

By SANCHESKA BROWN

Embassy closed

THE United States Embassy will be closed today in observance of the US Veterans Day holiday.

ACE Diabetes Expo helps the community 'get on track' to better health

MORE than 400 Bahamians came out to support the second annual ACE Diabetes Get On Track Expo last Saturday.

Briefly

EDITOR, The Tribune.

US crime alerts reported in NY Times

SO ANXIOUS to win the 2012 election, the Christie government promised the Bahamian people that if elected it would reduce, if not eradicate, the country’s escalating crime. The PLP claimed to have had the answers.

INSIGHT - YOUNG MANS VIEW: Long Island's economic slump

I GREW up on the best place on earth — Long Island. I have long thought that our great island — for me, the greatest island in our archipelagic chain — has become a forgotten outsider. That has saddened me, particularly during my countless visits to Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Bimini, Exuma and other Bahamian islands.

YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: Bank of the Bahamas fiasco highlights social inequality

THE Bank of the Bahamas (BOB) fiasco is a national disgrace and rational, reasonable Bahamians cannot help but wonder how that BISX-listed institution’s loan portfolio could become such a shameful mess with the accrual of hundreds of millions of dollars of non-performing loans. The bank can only be likened to an asue where everyone withdraws and drops out once they have got their share.

Crystal Palace to train over 3,000

Baha Mar will use the former Crystal Palace Hotel and casino to train more than 3,000 potential staff for its $3.5 billion development, as it moves to structure its workforce for the late Spring 2015 opening.

Fatal shooting takes murder count to 101

A MAN was fatally shot in the Yellow Elder Gardens subdivision last night, pushing the year’s murder count to 101.

Dr Myles Munroe: Teacher, author, inspiration

Dr Myles Munroe is survived by his two children, his son Myles “Chairo” Jr Munroe and his daughter, Charisa Munroe.

Mourners gather at Bahamas Faith Ministries headquarters

TEARFUL mourners gathered at Bahamas Faith Ministries last night soon after they learned that Dr Myles Munroe died in a plane crash on Grand Bahama with eight others yesterday.

PM shocked by death of 'great Bahamian' Munroe

PRIME Minister Perry Christie last night said he was left “shocked” and “saddened” by the tragic death of Dr Myles Munroe and others who were on board his ill-fated plane.

Dr Myles Munroe dies in plane crash - nine killed as jet collides with crane

DR MYLES Munroe, pastor of Bahamas Faith Ministries International, and his wife Ruth, were among the nine persons on board a Lear 36 executive jet that went down in a “gruesome” crash in bad weather in Grand Bahama on Sunday evening.

FNM Deputy wants help for 190 sacked workers

FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner is calling on the government to respond to the needs of the 190 Crystal Palace employees who were fired last Friday.

Three in hospital after shootings, stabbing

POLICE are currently investigating two shootings and one stabbing incident over the weekend that have left two men in stable condition and another man in serious condition in hospital.

Freeport development gains much interest

A proposed multi-million dollar residential resort development for Freeport has generated significant international interest, with pre-construction sales set to begin in the coming months.

Commonwealth Bank Giants get championship rings

THE Commonwealth Bank Giants got their championship rings and then they polished off their title as they knocked off last year’s runners-up Mail Boat Cybots 98-87 at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.

'Overall, I think it was a very competitive meet'

THE 29th version of the Barracuda/Family Guardian Swim Meet was keenly contested and well supported over the weekend.

Lions stop Caribs 73-68

What a difference the home court made for the College of the Bahamas Caribs men’s basketball team.

Cash flow mismatch costs Gov't $136m

The Bahamian government could slash its borrowing needs by $136 million through implementing basic cash flow management systems, with up to 10 per cent of its annual debt financing deemed “unnecessary”.

Mitchell: Haiti ambassador not recalled

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday dismissed a Miami Herald report which claimed that the Haitian ambassador to this country has been recalled to Haiti.

$100m bank rescue 'no reflection' on Board and managers

Bank of the Bahamas’ $100 million rescue is “not an adverse reflection” on its management or Board, but epitomises a commercial bank “reality” that was last week reiterated by Scotiabank’s nine-digit Caribbean writedown.

Hotels contravene Excise Stamp law

Bahamian hotels have been running afoul of the Government’s Excise Stamp law for tobacco products, resulting in goods “of significant value” being confiscated.

Baha Mar lay-offs at 'absolute worst time'

Hotel union executives say Baha Mar’s decision’s to lay-off 190 workers on Friday came at the “absolute worst time”, and have called on the Government to intervene.

Ground broken for new Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium

BASEBALL will once again have a home in the Bahamas as the government officially broke ground on the intended site for the new Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.

PharmaChem buy back deal closes

The Italian founder of Freeport’s PharmaChem Technologies has successfully closed the deal to buy back the company from its French owner, and is now understood to be assessing potential expansion plans.

Venetian West developer investment reaches $17m

The Venetian West developer has invested some $17 million in the western New Providence gated community to-date, with about 100 units in the development’s first phase having been reserved thus far.

DR MYLES MUNROE AND HIS WIFE DEAD IN PLANE CRASH

THE leader of Bahamas Faith Ministries, Dr Myles Munroe, and his wife Ruth have been killed in a plane crash in Grand Bahama.

Killarney is not a safe seat

EDITOR, The Tribune

$13.1m savings from procurement reforms

By NEIL HARTNELL

PharmaChem deal gives Chamber chief 'optimism'

The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s newly-elected president hasexpressed “cautious optimism” for Grand Bahama’s economy, following the recently-completed acquisition of PharmaChem Technologies (Grand Bahama’s) net assets.

Thanksgiving service

A SERVICE of thanksgiving was held at St Agnes Anglican Parish on Friday for members of the British Legion-Bahamas Branch to honour those men and women who fought in the Second World War.

Murder suspect arrested, second man turns himself in

POLICE arrested a murder suspect during a special operation over the weekend while another man wanted for questioning in connection with a murder investigation turned himself in, the Royal Bahamas Police Force said.

BICA unveils events for Accountants Week

The Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) is holding its annual Accountants Week this week, with seminars from Tuesday through Friday at The Melia Nassau Beach Hotel.

Sports in brief

BOWLING

Baha Mar lays off 190 hotel workers

SOME 190 Bahamian workers are without a job just weeks before Christmas after they were terminated from the Crystal Palace hotel by Baha Mar yesterday.

Five of police’s ‘most wanted’ now in custody

FIVE “armed and dangerous” men wanted by police in connection with murder cases are in custody less than 48 hours after bulletins were issued for their arrest.

Minnis: Do you want a speaker or do you want solutions?

FREE National Movement leader Dr Hubert Minnis has dismissed persistent criticism that he is “a flip-flopper” and not charismatic.

Bran wants referendum on rights to apply for citizenship

DNA Leader Branville McCartney yesterday called for the government to hold a constitutional referendum “as soon as possible” to determine whether children born in this country to illegal migrants should have a right to apply for Bahamian citizenship.

Five children picked up by immigration ‘in care of the state’

FIVE children who were picked up by Department of Immigration officers during an operation on Saturday remain in the care of the state, Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said yesterday. Mr Mitchell said the children are awaiting “the return of a responsible adult.”

Cemetery condition ‘a national disgrace’

FORMER Works Minister Neko Grant yesterday said the poor upkeep of the Southern Cemetery at Cowpen and Spikenard Roads is “nothing short of a national disgrace” as some graves have been left open with rusty caskets visible.

MURDER COUNT REACHES 100

A MAN died at the Central Detective Unit after his suspected girlfriend drove him to the police station following an early morning shooting in the Soldier Road area.

Dr David Allen: We must confront criminality head on

FAMILIES of murdered victims and residents of the Blair community joined psychiatrist Dr David Allen at his second anti-crime forum.

PHA board ‘won’t play political games’

FRANK Smith, chairman of the Public Hospitals Authority, said the PHA’s board is not going to play political games with results of forensic audits into the entity because improving healthcare is the government’s “priority”.

Body found in water off East Bay Street identified by police

POLICE have identified the man who was discovered in waters off East Bay Street on Tuesday as Yuri Mark Smith, 47, of Wulff Road.

Blogger: ‘is there cover-up of crimes against tourists?’

AN AMERICAN blogger yesterday questioned whether the Royal Bahamas Police Force is “covering up” crime against citizens of the United States to protect the tourism industry.

BRAN: Govt must let the commissioner do his job

DNA Leader Branville McCartney yesterday said the government needs to “let the commissioner and his men do their job” and “lock down” New Providence in certain areas to deal with criminals.

Delay in the transfer of Latore Mackey murder case

THERE was a delay yesterday in the expected transfer of the Latore Mackey murder case to the Supreme Court.

Two of three Romanian men admit hacking ATM machines

TWO of three Romanians accused of hacking bank automated teller machines yesterday owned up to their involvement in the crimes, which a magistrate called “white collar crime at its worst.”

Winners emerge at Cecil Cooke Memorial Sailing Championship

BENJAMIN Derbyshire, Luke Knowles, Noah Simmons, Paloma Cartwright, Connor Pinder and Paul de Souza emerged as the respective divisional winners of the Cecil Cooke Memorial Sailing Championship held in Montagu Bay over the weekend.

'Training has been going great' for the CAC Games

IN preparation for the Central American and Caribbean Games this month in Veracruz, Mexico, Rashield Williams has decided to go to Washington DC to train with assistant team coach Floyd ‘Pretty Boy’ Seymour instead of joining his teammates in Havana, Cuba.

Big Red Machine rolls to championship round

The St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine once again took the spotlight on day two of the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools softball playoffs as both boys teams advanced to the championship round.

Lauren Haven making a name for herself at University of Charleston

BAHAMIAN Lauren Haven is making a name for herself at the University of Charleston.

$1.9bn deal boost for BTC TV plans

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) TV launch plans were yesterday boosted by a $1.9 billion “game changer” that will likely increase its ability to compete head-on with Cable Bahamas for market dominance.

BTC left 'flat' by price/cost cutting

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) controlling shareholder yesterday blamed its “flat” first-half financial performance on preparations for cellular competition, with net income matching last year’s $37 million.

'Comprehensive list' of all outstanding VAT issues sought

The Coalition for Responsible Taxation’s co-chairman yesterday urged that a “comprehensive list” of all outstanding Value-Added Tax (VAT) issues be drawn up, with matters involving ‘inclusive’ pricing, loan origination fees and homeowners associations all still unresolved.

Wendy's targeting further expansion

Wendy’s (Bahamas) yesterday said it was aiming to add another restaurant location in 2015, as it expands the franchise even further.

IAN FERGUSON: What employers really want from you workers

In 2000, Mel Gibson starred in the famed chick flick, ‘What Women Want’. He played a chauvinis male executive who, after a freak accident, gains the ability to hear what women are really thinking. This telepathic understanding allowed him to SCORE lots of romantic points and ultimately changed his life for the better.

FDI can't be 'sole economic driver'

The Bahamas needs to “start paddling forward” to achieve a higher credit rating, a leading private sector executive yesterday arguing that foreign direct investment (FDI) could not be the economy’s “sole driver”.

US crime warning 'could not have been worse timed'

The private sector remains “very concerned” over crime, a senior executive telling this newspaper that the recent US warning “couldn’t have come at a worse time”.

Bahamas targets 100k visitors from Europe

Tourism officials are anticipating an increase in airlift to the Bahamas from Europe following promising discussions with travel partners at the World Travel Market (WTM) forum in London.

Business editor's review of BoB issue

EDITOR, The Tribune.

When do we say 'we are a failed state'

EDITOR, The Tribune.

In praise of immigration officers

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Junior riders to test their skills at annual horse show in Camperdown

HORSE enthusiasts of all ages will be treated to a festive atmosphere and fierce competition at the Camperdown Equestrian Centre Annual Horse Show in New Providence.

Macedonia Baptist teams beat neighbourhood rivals

MACEDONIA Baptist Church co-ed and men’s teams both won their games over their neighbourhood rivals, St Paul’s Baptist, as the Baptist Sports Council continued its 2014 Softball Classic in the Banker’s Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex last night.

Next year a 'tipping point' for Bahamas

BY NATARIO McKENZIE

Hunt for eight armed and dangerous men

POLICE yesterday said they were on the hunt for eight “armed and dangerous” men who are wanted for questioning in connection with several murder investigations.

Kofhe Goodman faces three month wait for appeal hearing

DEATH row inmate and convicted child killer Kofhe Goodman must wait another three months before his appeal hearing takes place in the country’s second highest court.

Minnis: Govt should follow the US in protecting citizens

FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday he sees “nothing wrong” with the United States warning its citizens about the prevalence of “rape and armed robbery” in New Providence.

Repatriations budget for year ‘almost spent’

THE government has already spent $1.2 million of its $1.5 million budget for repatriations this year, Deputy Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis said yesterday.

‘Terrified Haitians going into hiding’

THE Haitian community in Grand Bahama is “terrified” and people are going into hiding with their children in the aftermath of new immigration restrictions and raids on Saturday, a local human rights activist said yesterday.

Dr Minnis gets a warm welcome in Grand Bahama

FNM 2014 convention delegates, including meritorious council members and supporters on the island of Grand Bahama, turned out in large numbers to greet party Leader Dr Hubert A Minnis during a one day visit to that island on Saturday.

Speculation that teen was murdered is ‘nonsense’

CHIEF Superintendent Paul Rolle yesterday said speculation that spread over social media that a teen girl who died at the Willie Mae Pratt Centre for Girls was murdered is “nonsense”.

Haitian Bahamians: They should have given us more time

HAITIAN Bahamians yesterday claimed that the minority group has been unfairly stigmatised for political gain and said misinformation about the government’s new immigration policies is rampant.

Man has his sentence reduced by more than half

A MAN convicted of drug possession and sentenced to the previous four year mandatory minimum term had his time reduced by more than half.

Loretta calls for unity in the FNM

FNM leadership candidate Loretta Butler-Turner has pledged to make every effort to keep the party unified during the lead up to its convention and beyond.

Hilton controversy shows Bahamas as 'banana republic'

A leading businessman yesterday warned that the controversy surrounding China’s purchase of the British Colonial Hilton gave the impression the Bahamas was ‘a banana republic”.

Grandison gets 'male athlete of the week award'

IT IS a rarity for any true freshman to have an immediate impact on a basketball programme, but Bahamian wing Delroy Grandison is doing just that at Niagra College in Southern Ontario, Canada.

Saunders eager to hit field with defending national champs

THE coaching staff chose not to redshirt him in his freshman season, but Bahamian gridiron star Mavin Saunders is still awaiting his opportunity to contribute on the field with the defending national champions.

Top seeds Falcons and Hurricanes go home

The Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) softball playoffs got underway yesterday with two number one seeds being eliminated from playoff performance.

S&P: Hit 3% VAT goal to escape credit downgrade

The Bahamas was yesterday warned that hitting Value-Added Tax (VAT) revenue targets equivalent to 3 per cent of GDP is “key” to avoiding another credit downgrade, with Wall Street also “watching” the Bank of the Bahamas situation.

Gov't urged: Move 'hastily' on $30m CLICO guarantee

A leading clergyman yesterday urged the Government to move “hastily” on providing the long-awaited $30 million CLICO (Bahamas) guarantee, adding that it was hard to avoid the contrast with the Bank of the Bahamas ‘rescue’.

Fidelity's 46% profit growth aided by $1m affiliate boost

Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) yesterday unveiled a 45.8 per cent net income increase for the year to end-September 2014, aided by a $1 million contribution from the 50 per cent equity stake it holds in its merchant bank affiliate.

Arawak port eyes 40% profit growth

The Arawak Port Development Company (APD) is projecting a 40.2 per cent net income increase for its 2015 financial year, while raising security and tax evasion concerns over Potter’s Cay and Family Island ports.

Bahamas National Feeding Network donates $30,000 in food vouchers

THE Bahamas National Feeding Network made good on its promise to combat hunger in the country by donating $30,000 in food vouchers to more than a dozen feeding organisations during a ceremonial luncheon held at Luciano’s of Chicago restaurant, East Bay Street yesterday.

Oil price drop set to 'counter balance' VAT

The Central Bank of the Bahamas believes Value-Added Tax’s (VAT) inflationary impact will be partially “counterbalanced” by declining global oil prices.

Vacation rental managers fear VAT business loss

Abaco-based property management firms fear Value-Added Tax (VAT) will cost them business by driving visitors to book vacation rentals via foreign sources, thereby avoiding the tax.

Ethics for Civil Servants

AT A recent event hosted for those in the public service it was my honour to be invited to bring a religious perspective to the topic given to the three panellists: “Service to Self vs Service to others: Ethics in the Public Sector”.

First Baptist Church celebrates Annual Choir And Youths Day

WITH just two days to go, anticipation is building for the Inspirational Choir of First Baptist Church to take the stage in a spirit-filled and life-changing Annual Choir and Youths Day Service.

"Women of Virtue, Women of War" - Company of Deborahs hosts conference

By ALESHA CADET

Feuding between FNMs

EDITOR, The Tribune.

ART OF GRAPHIX: Learning from a carpenter's craft

Darius Kazemi once asked if there was a difference between carpentry and art? If you ask me, I firmly believe that carpentry is altogether art, as it creates something out of nothing.

Deeply concerned about Bank of the Bahamas issue

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Intestinal fortitude

THROUGHOUT his ministry, Jesus demonstrated intestinal fortitude. He challenged a ruler of his time, Herod, calling him a fox, a sly sneaky animal. This is probably equal to Bahamians calling you “a dog”.

"Unlocked and Released" - Evangelistic Temple hosts Women's Conference 2014

UNDER the theme “Unlocked And Released”, the women of Evangelistic Temple will come together for a time of renewal at their 13th annual Women after the Heart of God Conference 2014. Services will be held nightly from November 12-14 at 7.30pm at Evangelistic Temple East, located on 4th Terrace and Collins Avenue. This event will culminate with a prayer breakfast on Saturday November 15 at 8am.

Hitting the sweet spot

GIVING exposure to local pastry chefs and confectioners was the goal that was successfully met by Sugar Rush 2 last Sunday.

Jah Hem aims to capture hearts with new love ballads

THINGS have been quiet around Jah Hem over the past few months, but the Bahamian reggae artist is about to give his fans some new rhythms to groove to.

Pastor voices concern over immigration raids

TEMPLE Baptist Church Pastor A Geoffrey Wood yesterday said he was “concerned” about the government’s recent raids of illegal residents in the country and warned the government to “be careful” in its future interdiction exercises.

Man convicted of sexually assaulting his mother to serve five years

A MAN who was unanimously convicted of holding down and sexually assaulting his mother will serve five years in prison, a Supreme Court judge ruled yesterday.

FNM Chairman defends Minnis over video claim

FNM Chairman Darron Cash yesterday urged party supporters “not to read too much” into party leader Dr Hubert Minnis’ assertion that he held the FNM together in the aftermath of defeat in the 2012 general election.

‘Don’t use child as a passport’

IMMIGRATION Director William Pratt yesterday warned migrants not to attempt to use their children as a “passport” to illegally reside in the Bahamas.

Anti-crime rally being held tonight

PSYCHIATRIST Dr David Allen as well as families of murdered victims and residents of the Blair community are hosting an anti-crime rally tonight in direct response to recent rapes and home invasions in the capital.

Mitchell cautions Ambassador after ‘Christian spirit’ remarks

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday said he had a “very frank” conversation with Antonio Rodrigue about the Haitian Ambassador to the Bahamas’ controversial comments on the rounding up of illegal immigrants on Monday.

Human skeletal remains found in Grand Bahama

HUMAN skeletal remains were discovered Tuesday morning in West End, Grand Bahama, police reported yesterday. The remains were found around 8am on Tuesday about 500ft in the bushes from the West End Government Clinic.

AG calls for increased education on equality

ATTORNEY General Allyson Maynard-Gibson says she is “certainly uncomfortable” about reports of nearly 60 per cent of high school boys supporting the idea that men should discipline their female partners. She said efforts had to be increased to “educate our people about equality.”

Foreign Affairs Minister leads Bahamas delegation to CARICOM Ebola meeting

FOREIGN Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell led a delegation to Trinidad and Tobago for a special meeting of CARICOM ministers to discuss the potential threat of the Ebola virus.

Man charged in connection with seizure from shipping containers

A TRIAL date was set yesterday for a man recently charged in connection with the recent seizure of more than $200,000 worth of stolen vehicles, ammunition and electronics from two shipping containers.

Turnquest: ‘Govt’s cookie cutter approach derailed VAT registration’

FNM Shadow Finance Minister Peter Turnquest yesterday blamed the government’s poor education campaign for the slow registration of businesses for value added tax (VAT).

Sports notes

THE Bahamas’ two-member team of national champions Leonardo ‘Lee’ Davis and Xynea Johnson are trying to make up some ground in the standings at the 50th QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup in Wroclaw, Poland.

BAISS softball playoffs set to begin today

THE Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) softball regular season concluded with the St Augustine’s College junior boys clinching their share of the pennant with a 17-7 win against Queens College Comets and Charles W Saunders clarifying the playoffs and avoiding the top-seeded Jordan Prince William Falcons in the senior boys division.

BSC Classic opens with huge victories

WHILE their co-ed team continued where they left off last year, St Paul’s men avenged their championship loss by pulling off two huge victories to start the Baptist Sports Council’s 2014 Softball Classic.

Exhibition game opens Bahamas rugby season

SEASON OPENER: The new rugby season in New Providence kicked off on Saturday with the traditional curtain raiser between the President’s XV playing the Vice-President’s XV at the Winton Field.

Pro golfer hosts 1st leg of tourney

WHILE she’s still waiting to compete in her next professional golf tournament, Georgette Rolle is making good use of her time at home to assist the Bahamas Golf Federation’s Junior Division with the development of the younger competitors in the country.

Davis Jr looking to make impact on pro circuit

RICARDO Davis Jr would have preferred to have had an opportunity to get in more practice time. But he’s confident that he can go to Orlando, Florida, and still make an impact on the professional circuit.

New ‘lavish’ party series kicks off in Nassau

THREE Amigos Media along with the XS Group are gearing up for their inaugural party series that is expected to be an attractive and unique addition to Nassau’s nightlife.

Celebrating society's "Beautiful Warriors"

INSPIRED by the stories of women and nature’s colour palette, and with an admiration for the old and appreciation for the new, fine artist and graphic designer Philece R presents her solo exhibit

Artist Spotlight: He Ensures Fury

FROM performing at a very young age in the church to watching his aunts electrify the Sunday praise and worship services, music has always been a part of Javan Johnson’s life.

Judo medal hopes for Rahming family at CAC Games

OVER the past few years, the Rahming family has really taken the sport of judo to the next level.

Atlantis chief warns on hotel 'casualties'

Atlantis’s top executive yesterday warned there will be “casualties” among New Providence’s resorts if the island keeps adding hotel rooms without a matching increase in airlift.

Capital breaches 'did not warrant' bank's closure

Bank of the Bahamas’ breaches of Central Bank-mandated capital ratios did “not warrant” its closure because it was still in compliance with international regulatory requirements.

Conch verdict preserves $3.3m fisheries exports

BAHAMIAN fishermen yesterday hailed as “welcome news” the US’s decision not to place the Queen Conch on its endangered species list, and blamed harvesting shortfalls on “destructive” methods by foreign poachers.

US attempts to seize Bahamian duo's $1.4m

US authorities are attempting to seize $1.4 million belonging to a brokerage firm run by two indicted Bahamians, alleging that bank activity was “consistent with the layering of criminal proceeds”.

Wilson: 'Silver lining' to $100m bank rescue

A leading businessman yesterday said there was a potential “silver lining” to the $100 million Bank of Bahamas ‘rescue’, adding that the case for the Government retaining majority ownership had “diminished”.

MARKETING REVOLUTION: Flexibility key to business survival

Most people in a business have a fixed and inflexible attitude towards how a business makes money. But it is important that you as a member of the Marketing Revolution have flexibility. Because it may be the case that you have to change your model, especially if you have some major interruption that stops you from being able to pay your bills. For example, let us say you have some major roadworks that stop people from being able to come to your business.

Logistics provider targets expansion

A Fort Lauderdale-based logistics provider, which has been offering concierge services to Bahamian businesses and residents for more than a decade, is aiming to expand its service offering.

POLITICOLE: Dear Prime Minister: Who are we building the Bahamas for?

Another hotel is not what we need.

HeadHere

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Miss Galaxy Bahamas contestants unveiled

THE 11 contestants vying for the title of Miss Galaxy Bahamas 2014 were unveiled during a special event over the weekend at the Sun Fun Resort.

Bahamas to lead European charge

The Bahamas is looking to stand out among the 200 countries that are all seeking a greater share of the UK and European tourist markets at World Travel Market (WTM) in London.

'Long Island needs some serious help'

Long Island will be the site of the seventh and latest Business Outlook when the one-day forum is held at Clarence Town’s Community Centre on November 12.

Maintaining the rule of law

EDITOR, The Tribune

Seeing the side they want to see!

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Teen girl dies in 'apparent suicide' at Willie Mae Pratt Centre

A TEEN resident of the Willie Mae Pratt Centre for Girls died yesterday morning after an apparent suicide, the Ministry of Social Services and Community Development said yesterday.

Dr Minnis: I held FNM together after defeat

FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis has defended his record as party chief, saying that it was he who held the "deflated" party together after its "greatest defeat" in the 2012 general election.

Man shot dead while sitting in car

A 34-year-old man was shot multiple times and killed while sitting in his vehicle near Caves Village on Sunday night.

Thieves take two safes in Haitian Embassy break-in

HAITIAN Ambassador Antonio Rodrigue confirmed yesterday that no passports or confidential documents were stolen when Haiti's embassy in Nassau was ransacked by thieves.

Call for overhaul of BOB directors

FNM chairman Darron Cash called yesterday for a complete overhaul of the board of directors at the Bank of the Bahamas and criticised Central Bank governor Wendy Craig for agreeing with the government's decision to establish a company that will absorb $100 million of BOB's toxic commercial loan debts.

US citizens warned over Nassau crime

A NEW American warning about crime in the Bahamas expresses concern over home invasions and a recent spike in reported sexual assaults, some which are linked to the loosely regulated water sports industry on Paradise Island.

Bahamas Celebration cruise ship ‘won’t sail for first two weeks of November’

THE Bahamas Celebration cruise ship, in dock in Freeport after being holed shortly after it departed Grand Bahama for Florida on Friday, is vital to the local tourism industry as it brings nearly 30 per cent of the overnight visitors to the island.

Media guidelines are amended for interviews at Government House

MEMBERS of the media will now be allowed to conduct interviews of “diplomats, officials and other individuals who make courtesy calls on the Governor General” in an “office building” of Government House, officials confirmed yesterday.

Haitian Ambassador voices concern over detention of children

THE apprehension and detention of children by Bahamas immigration officials is a major concern, said Haitian Ambassador Antonio Rodrigue.

Bran commends govt clampdown on illegal immigration

FORMER State Minister for Immigration Branville McCartney yesterday commended the government for “finally taking seriously its responsibility to protect our borders” by clamping down on illegal migration and imposing new immigration restrictions.

It’s official: Royal Bahamas Police Force promotions

THE Royal Bahamas Police Force has officially announced its recent round of promotions.

Three men appear in court over $600,000 marijuana seizure

THREE men were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with the seizure of over $600,000 worth of marijuana over the weekend.

Passengers voice anger at ‘unorganised chaos’ on board cruise ship

PASSENGERS are continuing to express their anger about what took place on board the Bahamas Celebration following Friday’s incident, which has been picked up by the international media.

Prosecutors fail to find man acquitted of three attempted murder charges

CROWN prosecutors have been unsuccessful in their attempts to track down a man acquitted of three attempted murder charges, the Court of Appeal was told yesterday.

Witnesses in night club murder case are no shows

WITNESSES expected to give testimony in the trial of a man accused of a night club murder were no shows in the Supreme Court yesterday.

Two Brazilian men arrested in connection with credit card fraud

POLICE arrested two Brazilian men on Paradise Island Sunday afternoon in connection with credit card fraud.

PLP Chairman expects Rollins report at party’s next general meeting

PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts expects to get a report from a disciplinary committee appointed to look into the actions of Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins on November 18 at the next PLP general council meeting.

Tony Gaskins, Jr holds counsel in the Bahamas

WHEN it comes to relationships, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for the common problems that couples face. However, those who attended the “The Real Love Tour” got relationship advice and insight into a variety of issues that affect singles seeking love and couples a like.

Bank: Commercial exit 'double edged sword'

Bank of the Bahamas yesterday said its decision to “curtail” its commercial lending activities was a “double-edged sword” for the country, as it would potentially retard private sector and economic growth.

Bank of Bahamas: 'We'll be profitable within 12 months'

Bank of the Bahamas’ managing director yesterday expressed confidence it would return to profitability “within the next 12 months”, revealing that the loan portfolio “clean up” had largely been completed by end-September 2014.

Caribs have home court advantage against rivals FMU Lions in 40th anniversary game

THE College of The Bahamas Caribs is hoping that its home court advantage on the basketball court this Friday against the Florida Memorial University (FMU) Lions will give the team the momentum it needs to secure the win against its rivals.

Caribbean mode, talent showcase heads to Grand Bahama

AFTER a successful start in Nassau this August, the Music, Model & Talent Showcase of the Islands (MMTS) is now heading to Grand Bahama.

Clayton Bain emerges again as Sands Beer 'Man in the Boat' sculling champion

Clayton Bain has every reason to boast and brag. For the third consecutive year, he has emerged as the Sands Beer ‘Man in the Boat’ sculling champion.

Bahamas avoids tax exchange 'disaster'

The Bahamas is “in the best possible position” following last week’s OECD Global Forum, a private sector executive warning yesterday that it would have been “disastrous” not to agree to automatically exchange tax information.

Bank of Bahamas shares to resume BISX trading today

Bank of the Bahamas shares will resume trading on the Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) today, following a temporary one-day suspension to allow for a “material disclosure” on its $100 million ‘bail out’.

Chamber chief urges 'feasibility plan' over bank rescue

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s (BCCEC) chairman yesterday called for the Government to produce a “feasibility plan” for the Bank of the Bahamas ‘rescue’, questioning why no other institution had experienced similar problems.

Burkett Dorsett won't be seeking another term as BSF president

AS the Creter Bulldogs and the Candies Wolverines took the men’s and women’s national titles to Abaco and Grand Bahama respectively, the weekend showdown between the champions from the affiliated island associations in the Bahamas Softball Federation saw the curtain come down on the legacy of its longest serving executive.

Men's national volleyball team set for CAC Games

THE Bahamas Volleyball Federation has been working towards competing in a major international competition like the Central American and Caribbean Games for a long time.

Yacht Club gearing up for finish of Nassau Cup Ocean Race

THE Nassau Yacht Club is gearing up for the finish of the 2014 Nassau Cup Ocean Race hosted by Nassau Yacht Club, Coral Reef Yacht Club, Lauderdale Yacht Club and Storm Trysail Club and managed by the Southern Ocean Racing Conference (SORC).

BAISS softball playoffs start on Wednesday

THE Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) softball playoffs is all set to begin at the Freedom Farm in Yamacraw on Wednesday.

BOC names largest ever team for CAC Games

AFTER the completion of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Association’s fitness trials over the weekend and the withdrawal of the men’s national basketball team, the Bahamas Olympic Committee announced a 65-member team with about 10 officials who will represent the Bahamas at the Central American and Caribbean Games.

Bromwell set for exchange programme at Ridley College

TWO-sport star Livingston Bromwell is billed as “The Next Man Up” for Noble Preparatory Academy and will have his opportunity to fulfil that promise when he leaves this week for an exchange programme at a prestigious Canadian boarding school.

BFSB plans briefing on insurance sector

The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) will later this month host a half-day Insurance Industry briefing that includes a ‘Captives 201’ component.

Bahamas puts local industry 'first' in WTO discussions

The Bahamas is still moving towards completing its World Trade Organisation (WTO) accession by December 2015, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.

BFSB lists finalists for top student award

The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has announced three finalists for its 2014 Financial Services Student of the Year awards.

Realtor calls for Eastern Rd. re-zone

Just one week after Kerryann Pearce settled in to her new post as an estate agent with Island Living Real Estate, she came up with an idea likely to generate mixed opinions. Yet she believes it will give one of Nassau’s most established districts, Eastern Road, the boost it deserves and the market it needs.

YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: Govt needs to do more to curb gun violence

THESE days, maniacal criminals are increasingly using guns as their weapon of choice as they disrupt the serenity of our once tranquil islands, going on murderous rampages, robbing families of loved ones and callously committing heinous crimes with no regard for the law.

ACE Diabetes hosts second 'get on track expo'

FOLLOWING the success of its inaugural event last year, ACE Diabetes is set to launch the second annual Get on Track Expo with the same theme: “Prevent and Protect”.

A mother's fight inspires new organisation for colon cancer awareness

By ALESHA CADET

What's next?

By Dr Ian Bethell Bennett

BFSB unveils mentor award

The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has announed that the fifth Mentor of the Year award has been given to Edward E. Virgil II, acting manager at Commonwealth Bank’s East Bay Street branch

Smoking . . . what a drag

By SARAH BEEK

Now Dr Minnis is feeling the pressure

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Is now the time for Brent Symonette to lead the FNM?

EDITOR, The Tribune.

The push for a debate between party hopefuls

EDITOR, The Tribune

Today's orthodontics

MOST laymen refer to orthodontics as “braces for teeth.”

Many misfortunes for the Bahamas

WE recall years ago when many Bahamians bitterly complained that the banks would not grant them unsecured loans to build their homes and start small businesses. At the time the PLP encouraged them in their demands, and the belief that the purpose of a bank was to help the little man get on his feet. No solution was offered as to what would happen to the bank when too many “little men” failed.

INSIGHT: Stopping the bloodshed

While the government has remained guarded over new crime fighting strategies which were formulated last week, a noted psychiatrist gives his take on what we can do to stem the tide of violent crime. Tribune News Editor Taneka Thompson reports.

We are the champions

Grand Bahama finally regained the women’s divisional title of the Bahamas Softball Federation as the Candies Wolverines completely dominated the 2014 National Round Robin Tournament over the weekend.

Call for calm after immigration raid

IMMIGRATION and Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday called for “calmness and equanimity” regarding the Department of Immigration’s weekend interdiction exercises and said Bahamians should not incite anger over the “routine” exercise.

Minnis: Name the politicians with delinquent Bank of Bahamas debts

THE FNM yesterday demanded that the government reveal the names of all politicians whose delinquent debts may have contributed to the government’s proposed $100 million bail out of the Bank of The Bahamas (BOB), a move the party dubbed as nothing more than continued political cronyism.

Passengers back in US after cruise ship is holed in Grand Bahama

THE 960 passengers onboard the Bahamas Celebration are back safely in Florida after a terrifying ordeal when the cruise ship ran aground and was holed shortly after leaving Grand Bahama on Friday evening, forcing it to return to port.

Haitian activist hits out at deportation policy

ACTIVISTS yesterday blasted the government over its implementation of new immigration policies that they feel have unfairly criminalised hundreds of persons of Haitian descent.

Attorney hits out at ‘swift justice’ initiative

ATTORNEY Fred Smith has bashed the government’s “swift justice” initiatives and called the country’s judicial system a “machine that is just moving forward to get convictions”.

Four held as $600,000 of marijuana seized

FOUR men are in police custody in connection with the seizure of over $600,000 worth of marijuana over the weekend.

Chipman: Enforce immigration policies in a humane way

ENFORCEMENT of immigration policies should be done in a humane way, Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Hubert Chipman said yesterday.

Loretta urges FNM members to ‘make history’

FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner has ramped up her efforts to win the party’s leadership post with the release of a commercial over the weekend urging party members to “make history” by electing her.

Real estate broker’s plan to bring graduates back to the Bahamas

A LEADING real estate broker is proposing to stem the tide of a growing number of Bahamians going abroad to study but not returning after they have completed their college or vocational training by tying graduation to affordable housing.

‘Wade in the Water’ repopens Pompey Museum

IT HAS been closed for nearly three years after a disastrous fire but on Saturday, the Pompey Museum reopened with an exhibition called “Wade in the Water.”

Bulldogs take national title back to Andros

THE Creters Bulldogs, preparing for another motorcade to celebrate when they return home to Abaco today, made their second consecutive Bahamas Softball Federation men’s national championship title look so easy.

Swim meet in memory of Rhonda Bullard-Stamp

THERE’S no better feeling for an athlete than to look up in the stands and see and hear their parents cheering for them when they are competing.

Bank of Bahamas: $69m loss drove insolvency fears

Bank of the Bahamas’ shareholders suffered a $68.747 million net loss for the year to end-June 30, wiping out its retained earnings prior to Friday’s $100 million bail-out.

Gov't 'unable' to halt ease of doing business slippage

The Bahamas may need to completely restructure the way it does business to “stop the slippage” in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings, amid concerns the Government is incapable of solving the problem.

OPINION: Bank of Bahamas investors to enjoy bail-out boost

Let’s not mince words: Everyone in the commercial banking industry knew that Bank of the Bahamas has been in trouble for some time. The only questions were the size of the damage, and how the Government would fill the ‘hole’.

QC retained over stalled Lucaya deal

An outspoken QC has been retained by the Port Lucaya Marketplace purchaser to determine if the deal needs to be approved by central government, with some elements in the Christie administration preferring a Bahamian buyer.

Mobile contenders wish auction start occurred 'yesterday'

Bahamas-based contenders for the nation’s second cellular licence wish the bidding process had begun “yesterday”, adding that they will be “quicker on the draw” and could launch services before 2016.

QC: 'Bahamianisation evil form of discrimination'

An outspoken QC has branded ‘Bahamianisation’ as “an evil form of discrimination” that is long past its sell-by date, suggesting that governments abused it to serve their own interests.

SPORTS NOTES

THE Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools is scheduled to complete its regular season for softball starting at 4pm today and on Tuesday at the various schools that have to play make-up games,

BOB's focus on retail services to return to profit

BANK of the Bahamas (BOB) managing director Paul McWeeney has announced the embattled bank will “curtail” its commercial lending business with an increased focus on its retail and electronic banking offerings.

Ferguson and X-Men advance to bowl game

WITH a win in dramatic fashion, Demetrius Ferguson and his St Francis Xavier X-Men advanced to a bowl game - his first in his career with team - and look to end their season with an upset win.

Wind, solar and water cooling schemes considered in reducing energy costs

THE cost of energy to domestic consumers and investors is “the most significant challenge” facing the Bahamas, Prime Minister Perry Christie acknowledged recently, stating that the government was sorting through several renewable energy proposals by major investors in the country.

Jets touch down on the Pros 28-22

AFTER week three of the Commonwealth American Football League, the top teams in the league remain deadlocked with 2-1 records, while the fourth team from the capital finally made their season debut.

US Embassy, Junior Baseball League of Nassau host baseball skills presentation and youth outreach clinic

THE United States Embassy, in partnership with the Junior Baseball League of Nassau (JBLN), hosted a baseball skills presentation and youth outreach clinic at the JBLN “Field of Dreams” this weekend.

Hurricanes take second league title, third in four years

NOW firmly established as a dynasty in the Atlantic Football League, the Holland College Hurricanes captured their second consecutive league title, the third in four years.

Halkitis backs Resolve to collect Outstanding debts

By NATARIO McKENZIE

SWIMMING RESULTS

RESULTS of the Alpha Aquatics - Rhoda Stamp Swim Meet at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex on Saturday:

How is government getting away with this?

Mr Leslie Miller, MP (PLP), Executive Chairman of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation, recently announced that savings from reduced oil prices will not be passed on to consumers.

UPDATED: Bahamas Celebration cruise ship runs aground: 'No danger of it sinking'

SEVEN hundred passengers and crew members were evacuated from the Bahamas Celebration after the cruise ship ran aground outside Freeport Harbour on Friday night.

$100 million rescue plan for ailing BOB

PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday announced a plan to help the struggling Bank of the Bahamas by establishing Bahamas Resolve, a new state-owned and controlled company that will assume liability for $100 million of BOB’s non-performing commercial loans.

Police chief: Something must be done with criminals who have served time

THE FATE of criminals who have already served their time should play an integral role in the fight against crime, according Commissioner of Police Ellison Greenslade.

Stories for November 2014

Sunday, November 30

Saturday, November 29

Friday, November 28

Thursday, November 27

Wednesday, November 26

Tuesday, November 25