Stories for February 2016

INSIGHT: Over-the-Hill tax talks

I UNDERSTAND that some listeners to the programme may have been offended by the acerbic tones in which I dismissed Dr Minnis’ stated programme on tax initiatives over the Hill as a “joke“ and “nonsense.”

WORLD VIEW: Would the real tax havens please stand

“IT IS tantamount to an economic blockade”. That’s how Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, described the current withdrawal from Caribbean indigenous and offshore banks of correspondent relationships by US banks. His sentiments were echoed by Deane Barrow and Freundel Stuart, the Prime Ministers of Belize and Barbados respectively.

INSIGHT: Good hair, bad principles

THE Principal’s office isn’t simply for guidance and discipline anymore. In one Nassau school, for one female student, the principal became the beautician and the beast, stirring up much ire after she suggested that the young’s girl’s hair, in its natural state seemed “unkempt”.

Keep gender debate non-partisan

This week, House Members are scheduled to vote on the four gender equality Bills.

How far ahead do we plan?

I see the series of ‘Outlook Seminars’ are starting their 2016 series….have to ask: for what betterment the speakers never are candid - dance around the subject matter and the politicians just make a farce of them so really I conclude a waste of a day and the attendance fee.

NHI: No cost to you! Seriously?

In a recent online publication by Dr Delon Brennen touting the new National Health programme, he mentioned the words NO COST TO YOU no less than four times and FREE once in the space of one minute. I do not know how this man can sleep at night knowing that what he is telling the Bahamian public is not true.

Go ‘suck salt’, Fred Mitchell’s CHOGM choice tells Dominicans

“AS the Foreign Minister of this country, I was bound to support who I thought would have provided for the best interests of The Bahamas. That in my view was Baroness Scotland. She in my view has the ability to increase the complement of Bahamian and Caribbean persons at the Commonwealth in London and to ensure that the ABCs – Australia, Britain, Canada and New Zealand — re-engage.”

Attorney General calls on women to campaign for equality

ATTORNEY General Allyson Maynard-Gibson has urged women to get involved in the gender equality referendum campaign and vote yes “for our sons and daughters.”

Butler-Turner supports plan for FNM convention

LONG Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner said holding a full convention this year will not only ensure the Free National Movement “votes for and presents the best team to the Bahamian people” but will also give the party an opportunity to “gather behind closed doors and become stronger.”

‘Strategic’ approach to Carnival marketing plan

MARKETING to ensure the success of the second Junkanoo Carnival will be very strategic, Bahamas National Festival Commission CEO Roscoe Dames said yesterday.

Mother of Bahamian who died in Haiti slams ministry

THE mother of Christopher Adderley, a Bahamian man who died in custody in Haiti last September, believes her son would still be alive if Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials had “listened to her and done their job” instead of ignoring her pleas for help.

VIDEO: Protesters block access to Paradise Island

DOZENS of irate Cabbage Beach vendors blocked the traffic flow to the Sidney Poitier Bridge yesterday in protest over the “sudden” closure of the main easement access to the popular beach, resulting in violent clashes with police.

Smith: Don’t lay a finger on Cubans

ATTORNEY Fred Smith has warned Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell not to “lay a finger” on the two Cubans authorities are searching for, more than a week after the men were released from prison for being held there unlawfully for nearly three years.

Rollins: Gender vote will fail

FORT Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins yesterday said that the proposed gender equality referendum will become “a victim of the extreme unpopularity” of the Christie administration, adding that he fully expects it to fail.

Bridge toll rise delayed

THE toll increase to cross the Sidney Poitier Bridge has been postponed to Sunday, May 1, a press release from the Bridge Authority said.

Two in hospital after stabbing

POLICE in Grand Bahama are investigating a stabbing incident that has left two men in hospital.

Three drown in separate incidents

GRAND Bahama police are investigating three separate drowning incidents that occurred in Grand Bahama and Bimini.

Athletes qualify for CARIFTA at annual track classic

AT least three athletes attained the qualifying standards for the CARIFTA Games on Saturday during the 10th Annual Road Runners Dianne Lynn Thompson Track Classic at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

Couple held over fake visas

A Haitian couple was arrested at Lucayan Harbour by immigration officials in Grand Bahama after it was discovered that they had fraudulent US visas in their passports.

Devynne helps lead the Boilermakers to second place

DEVYNNE Charlton turned in another big performance over the weekend as she helped to lead the Purdue University Boilermakers women’s track team to a second place finish at the Big Ten Conference Championships in Geneva, Ohio, where she turned in three personal best times, two school records, a facility record and a Bahamian national record.

Jones still out with shoulder injury

WITH Grand Bahamian senior Jonquel Jones still out with an injury, juniors Hannah Schaible and Caira Washington each registered double-doubles to lead the George Washington women’s basketball team to a 73-66 victory over Revolutionary Rival and Atlantic 10 foe George Mason on Saturday afternoon in the regular-season finale at EagleBank Arena.

‘Q’ Ferguson looking forward to fine season

BAHAMIAN sprinter Sheniqua ‘Q’ Ferguson is loving it in Jamaica. Having made the move from her former training base to join the MVP Track Club, Ferguson says everything is going well. Despite early nervousness about the change, she is now looking forward to a fine season.

Sports notes

THIS weekend, the KPMG Youth Winter Championship is all set for Montagu Bay. This is the second year of KPMG’s undertaking to be the proud sponsor of Bahamas National Sailing School’s Annual Junior Winter Regatta.

DNA unveils campaign bus and headquarters

THE Democratic National Alliance ratified four candidates to compete in next year’s general election during the opening of its new headquarters on East Street South on Friday.

HUGH CAMPBELL: The Final Four

The final matchups are all set headed into championship night in the 33rd Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic.

Anti-competitive concern over web shop zoning regs

Zoning regulations designed to curb the proliferation of gaming houses could prove anti-competitive and be challenging to implement on New Providence, with some operators questioning what they perceive as a lack of enforcement by the Gaming Board.

Contractors chief: ‘No doubt’ Bahamians could have finished Baha Mar

The Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president has “no doubt” the local construction industry could have completed Baha Mar on time if it had been “invited in” by the Chinese.

FINCO bad loans still over $100m

Although still carrying more than $100 million worth of ‘bad’ loans, FINCO’s almost 10-fold net income increase for 2015 has given shareholders hope that better days lie ahead.

PowerSecure pledges Bahamas dedication amid ‘A team’ demand

PowerSecure has promised its “dedication and commitment” to BEC remains unchanged in the wake of its $431 million purchase, as Opposition politicians urged: “We need the ‘A Team’, not the ‘B Team’.”

‘Terrified’ of outcome in CIBC loan dispute

A Cacique award winner is “absolutely terrified” that he will face financial ruin this Thursday when a bitter loan dispute with CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) is scheduled to reach its climax in the Supreme Court.

Union concerned about Cuban hospital doctors

A UNION has taken issue with the recent hires and reported royal treatment of Cuban physicians by the Public Hospitals Authority, according to a statement released over the weekend.

Sands fears govt will ‘cherry pick’ NHI fund access

LEADING physician Dr Duane Sands said yesterday because of the government’s “history with cronyism and victimisation” he finds it hard to believe the Christie administration won’t “cherry pick” who has access to National Health Insurance’s $25m catastrophic fund.

Carnival adopts more ‘focused’ marketing

Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival organisers yesterday said a more “focused” approach has been taken to marketing this year’s event, with organisers working closely with the Ministry of Tourism to expand its global reach and partnerships with travel companies such as Expedia.

Union president slams ‘anti-labour campaign’

A trade union leader believes there is a campaign within the public and private sectors to ‘destabilise’ the Bahamian labour movement, and he added: “I don’t like what I’m seeing and hearing.”

Union demands Cuban doctor hire explanation

The Bahamas Doctors Union (BDU) has demanded that the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) and the Government explain the recent hiring of 18 Cuban doctors.

Man held after being shot by police during shop breaking

Police shot and arrested one man and are searching for three others after a shop breaking incident.

19 arrests in island-wide anti-crime operation

POLICE made 19 arrests, seized a firearm and recovered dangerous drugs in an island-wide anti-crime operation on Friday.

Three Chinese men, one Haitian man apprehended by immigration officials

THREE Chinese nationals and a Haitian national were apprehended by immigration officials at an apartment in the Freeport area on Wednesday.

Fred Mitchell: Released Cuban men 'trying to enter US illegally'

THE two Cuban men who were released from prison last week under a Supreme Court Justice’s order are believed to be attempting to illegally enter the United States, according to the Department of Immigration.

Minister: Tribune columnist 'irresponsible' over imprisoned Bahamian pilot article

IMMIGRATION and Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell has branded Tribune columnist Adrian Gibson as “irresponsible,” and denied allegations concerning money for bribes being passed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist a Bahamian pilot detained in Haiti.

Four Cuban migrants detained

FOUR Cuban migrants were brought to Grand Bahama after US Coast Guard officials spotted them onboard a rustic vessel near the Cal Sal Bank this week, an immigration official reported on Friday.

Cruise ship visitor 'drowns while snorkelling'

A cruise ship visitor reportedly drowned while snorkeling at Paradise Cove in West Grand Bahama on Friday.

Fred Smith: Jail or fine for violating bail 'completely unconstitutional'

GRAND Bahama Human Rights Association President Fred Smith, QC, said it is “completely unconstitutional” to jail or fine someone for failing to abide by their bail conditions and the GBRA is prepared to represent anyone who the courts attempt to “illegally” penalise.

Pair convicted of role in death avoid maximum penalties

TWO men convicted of playing a role in the death of a former Ocean Club employee who was killed during a failed robbery did not receive the maximum penalties of imprisonment requested by the widow of the victim.

Teens charged with murder of student have case fast-tracked to Supreme Court

THREE teens charged with the murder of a 12th grade Doris Johnson Senior High School student had their case fast-tracked to the Supreme Court on Thursday.

Political cowardice

It is an appalling act of cowardice that the powers that be should attempt to throw the attorney who appeared for the Crown in the habeas corpus application under the bus.

Action, not bickering

I was dismayed to read your article of February 24th “Minnis lacks support of white Bahamians”. It is unfortunate that attorney Michael Scott thought it appropriate to make a generalisation about people’s opinion based on skin colour, something I think that has no place in today’s society.

Web shop economic impact

It is very interesting that few, if any, of those persons who complain about the depressed state of the Bahamas economy, consider the impact that the web shops have, and continue to have, in this regard.

Cuban doctors to spread socialism?

As I travelled down the valley of life, I banked around a corner and smelled what appeared to be a decaying rat. As I went further, the smell increased and, lo and behold, at the end of the valley there was indeed a dead rat, the proposed National Health Insurance plan.

Mitchell says Amnesty accepted abuse allegations ‘uncritically’

ALTHOUGH immigration officials are still examining Amnesty International’s 2015 report into the state of human rights in this country, Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said the organisation appears to have uncritically accepted allegations of abuse.

Roker says Cuban case a ‘failure across the board’

FORMER Immigration Minister Loftus Roker yesterday said the Christie administration was “not diligent” enough in its handling of two Cuban men imprisoned for nearly three years without ever being brought to court, adding that the matter was “a failure across the board.”

Man guilty of manslaughter of woman feeding baby

A MAN was convicted of manslaughter yesterday by a Supreme Court jury for his involvement in the fatal attempted carjacking of a woman who was breastfeeding her baby six years ago.

Minnis not surprised by ‘gutter politics’ from Gray

FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday “he was not surprised” at MICAL MP V Alfred Gray’s “attack” on Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins, because Mr Gray is a “gutter politician trying to defend the indefensible”.

FNM to hold convention by end of November

THE Free National Movement Central Council has unanimously voted to hold a full convention no later than November 30, ending speculation on whether the party would contravene its own constitution and not hold a convention by the end of the year.

Judge rules Rufa can stay until verdict of judicial review

CANADIAN Bruno Rufa will be able to remain in the Bahamas until April 4 when the Supreme Court is expected to deliver its ruling in the judicial review into a decision made by the Department of Immigration to revoke his 150-day stay in the country.

Wanted alert for Cuban men

THE Immigration Department wants to apprehend two Cuban men who have no legal status in The Bahamas, but who were released from prison under a Supreme Court justice’s order last week, Immigration Director William Pratt said yesterday.

All ‘in denial’ on Baha Mar opening miss

Baha Mar’s principals so wanted to believe that their $3.5 billion project would open on target that they “were in denial” about what was before their very eyes, a businessman said yesterday.

IDB: 2016 ‘rich with opportunity’ for the Bahamas

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) believes that 2016 is “rich” with economic opportunity in the Bahamas, after the Government undertook numerous reforms that laid the groundwork for renewed growth.

Opposition queries BEC manager’s sale

The Government’s reform plans for the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) faced fresh questions yesterday, after it was revealed that its new management partner is to be acquired by Grand Bahama Power’s former owner in a $431 million deal.

‘Escape treadmill of dependency on hotels’

A well-known businessman yesterday branded the Bahamas’ economic philosophy of the past two decades as “deficient”, and urged the country to “get off the treadmill” of dependence on large resort projects.

Defence Force marine accused of voyeurism

A MARINE appeared in Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of violating a woman’s right to privacy by viewing nude images of his victim without her consent.

Sewell bail decision facing court review

A magistrate’s recent decision to grant bail to a Jamaican facing his third allegation of sexual assault in ten years is facing a “review” in the Supreme Court.

NHI fund ‘will not become a political football’

NATIONAL Health Insurance Project Manager Dr Delon Brennen said access to the government’s $25m catastrophic fund will not be determined by a committee, but based on objective criteria.

MOT in new partnership with Florida Panthers hockey team

THE Ministry of Tourism (MOT) has inked a deal and new partnership with the Florida Panthers hockey team.

Sports Notes

THE top scorer in Financial Bowling League competition last night was Kevin B Williams of the Strike Force with a 610 high three game set.

Park honour for ‘Mother’ Butler

THE Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority yesterday rededicated the “Mother” Frances Butler Park in the historic Bain Town community, with officials contending that the move marks the first of many for inner-city areas.

Junkanoo carnival sets date for road fever

THE Bahamas National Festival Commission has announced that costume judging for the best application of indigenous material for the Road Fever street party will take place on May 5 at the Junkanoo Carnival launch event inside Da Cultural Village.

To honour Sir Sidney with love

A CELEBRATORY dinner in honour of legendary Bahamian actor Sir Sidney Poitier being awarded the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Fellowship Award and his 89th birthday was held at the Wilshire Four Seasons in Beverly Hills on Sunday.

Weddings promotion seeks to woo Canada

THE Ministry of Tourism is spreading the love to Canada during the Year of Romance by inviting Canadian couples to register to win the wedding of a lifetime in the world’s leading wedding destination – the islands of the Bahamas.

A COMIC'S VIEW: Mitchell takes the punches, Gray threatens them

After Wednesday’s showdown in the House of Assembly, I half entertained the idea of just submitting an official transcript of what took place in those so-called ‘hallowed halls’ in place of this week’s column.

THE FINISH LINE: A remarkable turnaround for CR Walker Knights

So the CR Walker Knights are back on top of the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association track and field chart. Under first year coach Ednal Rolle, they regained the championship title that they relinquished to the CV Bethel Stingrays two years ago.

Teams eliminated as field reduced to 24

Day four of the prestigious 33rd Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic featured the first group of eliminations as the field was reduced to 24 teams.

CLICO liquidator gets leave to move over ‘fraud’ action

CLICO (Bahamas) liquidator this week obtained Supreme Court permission to serve legal claims, alleging “fraudulent breaches of fiduciary duty”, against two of the insolvent insurer’s former principals in Trinidad and Barbados.

Time to fine tune swimmers for CARIFTA, says coach

WITH the team now selected, head coach Allan Murray said it’s now time for the coaching staff to fine tune the swimmers before they head off to Martinique at the end of March to go for their third straight CARIFTA Swimming Championships.

Prime Minister writes address for Export Outlook publication

THE second edition of the Caribbean Export Outlook yearly publication was launched in Grand Bahama on Thursday, and features an address from Prime Minister Perry Christie.

Clubs and Societies: 02262016

Club Awari. - David Sands, local entrepreneur and promoter of ‘Mind Games’, organised the first afternoon of a new initiative for his Club Awari at the Green Parrot, East Bay Street on Saturday.

Miller: BEC manager’s sale ‘very interesting’

The Bahamas Electricity Corporation’s (BEC) former executive chairman yesterday described the impending acquisition of its newly-appointed manager as “very interesting”, arguing that the deal with the Government could have boosted its sales value.

Union demands that BEC manager’s new owner ‘speak clearly’

The Bahamas Electrical Managers Union’s (BEMU) president yesterday said it would “wait and see” what unfolds following the announcement that BEC’s newly-appointed manager is being acquired in a $431 million deal.

IAN FERGUSON: Paying workers their true worth

We have long toyed with the idea of merit-based pay as a means to increase productivity and efficiency in the workplace. Despite many years of throwing these thoughts around, and the cries from many businesses to adopt it, few have implemented incentive-based pay for employees.

A YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: Pilot’s death in Haiti jail raises questions for Mitchell’s ministry

The tale of the death of Christopher Prescott Adderley, affectionately known as Scottie, in a prison in Port-de-Paix, Haiti, is a harrowing tale of negligence, a callous disregard for the pleas of a distraught mother by the Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and has, in the aftermath, left a family grieving and in pursuit of answers.

Man sought after latest shooting

POLICE are seeking the public’s help in locating a male suspect in connection with a shooting that occurred on Tuesday.

Were hecklers hired for meeting?

According to The Nassau Guardian, between eight to 10 young men disrupted an FNM Torchbearers nomination meeting on Wednesday night.

Cuban case highlights Rufa matter

For those who weren’t sure what to make of the case of Bruno Rufa in Freeport, the case of the Cubans is instructive.

What does the PLP fear?

Another postponement of the PLP convention - clearly the leadership fears something as a convention is totally controlled and only involves three-four days at the most.

Fred Mitchell has still to answer the ‘security risk’ question

THE SCENE in the House of Assembly yesterday was disgraceful.

Gray invites Rollins to meet him 'in the right place'

MEMBER of Parliament for MICAL V Alfred Gray told Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins to “go to hell in a wastebasket” last night after Dr Rollins accused Mr Gray of abusing his power by “interfering with the judiciary” last year.

INTERNATIONAL CONCERN OVER IMMIGRATION POLICIES

HUMAN Rights group Amnesty International raised concerns about “excessive force” and “killings” at the hands of police officers as it also highlighted problems in this country’s criminal justice and immigration systems in its 2015 report on The Bahamas, which was released yesterday.

PM: Govt caught between a rock and a hard place over Cubans

PRIME Minister Perry Christie was adamant yesterday that the government “was caught between a rock and a hard place” as it petitioned several countries to accept Cuban nationals Carlos Pupo and Lazaro Seara Marin during their nearly three year imprisonment in The Bahamas.

FNM Chairman: Minister ‘a bully and a coward’

FNM Chairman Michael Pintard yesterday hit back at Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell for “mischaracterising” him and others in the House of Assembly, calling the Fox Hill MP a “coward” who is afraid to make his comments outside of Parliament “where he is not protected by privilege”.

Violate bail and you could get five years in prison

NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday introduced legislation in the House of Assembly that would make violating bail an offence punishable with up to a $50,000 fine and/or up to five years in prison.

Mitchell blasts critics yet won’t explain Cubans’ security risk

WHILE Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell attempted to shut down critics of his handling of circumstances surrounding the recent release of two Cuban men from prison, the minister was on the defensive offering no clear explanation to questions on why the men were considered “national security risks” by the government.

Baha Mar’s re-hire of 2,000 workers ‘remoter by the day’

The prospects of Baha Mar re-hiring its 2,000 laid-off employees are “growing more remote every day”, the Opposition’s deputy leader said yesterday, given predictions that winter 2017 is the earliest the property can open.

Despite injury, Jonquel on pace to be WNBA Draft Lottery Pick

DESPITE a lingering shoulder injury which has kept her out of the last eight games, Jonquel Jones remains in contention for many of the NCAA’s top awards and on pace to be a WNBA Draft Lottery Pick.

Eagles win their first tourney game in 3 years

THE Clement Howell Eagles out of the Turks and Caicos Islands have brought diversity to the Hugh Campbell Tournament for the past four years.

Sandyport wins top award

FOR A third consecutive year, Sandyport Beaches Resort and Hotel has won a top hotel industry award based on guests’ positive comments online related to great service, friendly staff and an overall happy vacation experience.

Coast Guard didn’t think El Faro was sinking at first

WHEN an initial report arrived saying the captain of the cargo ship El Faro had called ashore for help, the US Coast Guard did not believe the vessel was at risk of sinking and later had software problems while preparing a response plan.

House in a box idea proposed

CANADIAN businessman James Palibroda is looking to pitch an idea to the Bahamian government that could help people whose homes are damaged by severe weather systems like hurricanes.

Sister of murdered sailor says she forgives killers

A SIBLING of murdered American sailor Kyle Bruner told a judge yesterday that she would not hold the actions of her brother’s killers against The Bahamas.

‘No power to reduce Rufa stay’ says lawyer

THE Department of Immigration did not have the power in law to cancel or reduce the 150-day stay granted to Canadian citizen Bruno Rufa last year, his attorney Fred Smith, QC, has argued.

Brennen: NHI may be optional - but any tax will be mandatory

NATIONAL Health Insurance Project Manager Dr Delon Brennen said yesterday that while signing on to NHI is optional, if the government decides to tax to fund the scheme, “contributions will be mandatory for everyone.”

Police seek man in murder investigation

POLICE want to speak with a man they believe can help with a murder investigation.

FNM row reaches Facebook as MP argues with attorney

FORT Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins and attorney Michael Scott rowed on Facebook yesterday over the attorney’s argument that FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis is failing to get the support of wealthy white Bahamians because they perceive him to be ill-equipped to function as a prime minister.

Falcons get 42-32 win over Sentinels

Family Island teams took to the floor for the first time this week on day three of the 33rd Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic.

Private sector wants renewables re-start ‘as quick as possible’

The private sector is seeking an urgent meeting with Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) and its new operator in a bid to re-start the Renewable Energy Self Generation (RESG) programme “as quickly as possible”.

Investor confidence ‘undermined’ by PM’s Baha Mar assurances

The Prime Minister is undermining investor confidence in the Bahamas by repeatedly promising that a Baha Mar resolution, and completion, is imminent, an Opposition politician has charged.

Bahamas leads region for lift per hotel room

The Bahamas has the greatest airlift per available hotel rooms in the Caribbean, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) working paper has found, although flights to this nation from the US have fallen “by almost 50 per cent” since 2000.

40% licence decline shows auto fall depth

A leading auto dealer yesterday revealed that his Business Licence fee payments have declined by around 40 per cent year-over-year, and said: “Making money is a thing of the past.”

Former police officer accused of robbery has case fast tracked

A FORMER police constable facing three counts of armed robbery had his case fast tracked to the Supreme Court yesterday.

ART OF GRAPHIX: Ensuring constructive criticism hits the mark

At some point in every design project we quit what we are doing and present our unfinished work with co-workers, family members or close friends for critiquing. But what does the critique do for the design and the rest of the project? Do critiques really help, and are they necessary? If so, how do we use their input to improve our creative output?

RICHARD COULSON: Investors need more Cable issue details

A welcome development for our capital markets is the recent announcement by Cable Bahamas of its one-for-eights rights offering to its existing shareholders.

‘Quality shoppers’ biggest challenge for Bay St retail

Major Bay Street merchants yesterday said had few complaints over the duty-free shopping scheme implemented last August, although one retailer said attracting high-quality visitors willing to spend in the downtown area remains a “serious challenge”.

VIEW FROM AFAR: The tax-free enclaves in The Bahamas

DID YOU know that there are islands of The Bahamas where you don’t have to pay Value Added Tax (VAT)?

NASSAU LIFE: Time to face up to mortality

The aged and infirm are shockingly neglected in The Bahamas - and any NHI scheme must address the provision of hospice care, Richard Coulson says.

Decline of Bay Street

It is truly said that “it is an ill wind that blows nobody any good”.

Hawksbill meddling

Hawksbill and Grand Bahama Port Authority - looks as if PM Christie wants to meddle here now.

FNM leader fully backs referendum bills

FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said he “fully supports” the Constitutional Amendment Bills on gender equality and plans to vote “yes” on all four bills in Parliament next month.

Warrant issued for man missing for appeal

A WARRANT of apprehension was issued by the Court of Appeal yesterday for a man who received 19 months for possession of marijuana in a re-sentencing hearing that was unlawfully done by a magistrate.

Tears from accused as pair found guilty of manslaughter

A MAN on trial for triple murder became an emotional wreck in the Supreme Court yesterday after a jury accepted the Crown’s case that he pulled the trigger of a shotgun that killed three persons, including a woman due to give birth to a baby boy.

No more public sector full pay as well as sick benefits

AS the Christie administration seeks to clamp down on “double dipping” in the public sector, Bahamas Public Services Union President John Pinder is preparing to take the government to court over its actions.

Minnis ‘lacks support of white Bahamians’

ATTORNEY Michael Scott yesterday said Free National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis has been unsuccessful in gaining the financial support of white Bahamians because that demographic has little confidence in his ability to lead the organisation or the country.

Drugs found in diaper in Freeport bushes

GRAND Bahama police found a quantity of illegal drugs hidden in the most unlikely place - a discarded diaper in bushes in the Freeport area on Tuesday.

Symonette: Mitchell handled Cubans situation 'poorly'

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette yesterday said Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Fred Mitchell handled “poorly” the situation surrounding the recent release of two Cuban men who were wrongfully imprisoned in the country for nearly three years.

Gov’t urged: ‘Force’ Baha Mar’s auction

An ex-Baha Mar director yesterday urged the Government “to force” the Chinese to auction the $3.5 billion project off to the highest bidder, adding: ‘Gentle nudging ain’t working.”

Bran’s family firm: ‘Enormous loss’ in Drug Plan switch

The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) leader yesterday revealed that his family’s pharmacy business had “lost all kinds of money” over the past two months because the National Prescription Drug Programme’s (NPDP) terms had been changed without warning.

‘Govt is ignoring feedback on NHI’

FORMER Senator Dr Duane Sands yesterday blasted the government’s proposed National Health Insurance scheme as an “abomination,” calling it a “shameful disgrace” that the Christie administration is sticking to its model while “dismissing” the input of key stakeholders.

Next month’s Chickcharney Challenge has expanded course, new routes and gut-wrenching obstacles

WHEN the smoke clears on March 6, dozens of Chickcharney will have bested the toughest obstacle course on the island.

Pacers stop Cavaliers, Knights top the Scarabs

The cross matchups between public and private schools continued to headline the early rounds of the 33rd Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic.

Chamber agrees to new NHI meeting

Primary healthcare services must become better organised, the outgoing Medical Association of the Bahamas (MAB) president said yesterday, adding that Princess Margaret Hospital’s (PMH) emergency room was often filled with patients who did not need to be there.

Sands slams ‘end to cook-outs’ fallacy

The Bahamian public health care sector lacks the capacity “to get as much done as we need to get done”, a leading surgeon said yesterday.

Gov’t may end ‘hazard pay’ under NHI

The Government may seek to discontinue hazard pay or ‘risk allowance’ for public sector employees once National Health Insurance (NHI) is introduced, the Bahamas Public Service Union’s (BPSU) president said yesterday.

Bran: Downgrade to junk now ‘more likely’

The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) leader yesterday warned it is now “more likely” that the Bahamas will be downgraded to ‘junk’ credit status, due to investor predictions that Baha Mar will not fully open until winter 2017 at the earliest.

‘Vociferous’ concern on VAT bi-annual file end

The Government has made good on promises to eliminate bi-annual Value-Added Tax (VAT) return filings, amid “very vociferous” concerns expressed by small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) about the increased administrative burden that will result.”

‘No Fear’: Champion Amateur Boxing Club to host second show for the year

RAY Minus Jr is excited about the future of amateur boxing in the country. His Champion Amateur Boxing Club continues to do its part in the promotion of the sport.

IAAF World Indoors all set for ‘TrackTown USA’ March 7

THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) is expected to send a 9-12 member team, comprising of just one female - and for the first time a team for the men’s 4 x 400m relay - to the International Amateur Athletic Federation’s World Indoor Championships next month.

Mitchell accused of covering himself politically over Cubans

THE war of words between Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell and human rights advocate Fred Smith escalated yesterday when Mr Smith accused Mr Mitchell of seeking to “cover his political backside” in his reaction to the release of two Cuban men from prison last week.

Garbage piles up on Mackey Street

ANOTHER example of an eyesore of overflowing and rotting rubbish - this time by the side of a route into downtown Nassau much used by tourists - has been reported to The Tribune this week, raising several concerns.

BAAA gets in gear for IAAF World Indoors, CARIFTA Games

WITH their local track and field season now in full gear, Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) president Rosamunde Carey said they are now gearing up for a hectic international campaign that will begin with the IAAF World Indoor Championships and the CARIFTA Games next month.

Action heats up in the City Bowling League

THE most valuable player in the City Bowling League competition last night was again Sonith Lockhart of Carib Construction with a 255 high game and an outstanding 671 three game set.

El Faro hearing told of crew tasks on ship

The El Faro’s former chief engineer said five Polish nationals aboard the vessel when it sank would not have been working on projects connected to the freighter’s engines.

Management confident Bahamas CARIFTA team will bring back more than 31 medals

WHILE the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) will be keeping the precedent set last year where only those athletes who qualify will travel, the management team say they are confident that the BTC Bahamas CARIFTA team will bring back more than 31 medals from the CARIFTA Games in Grenada next month.

Murder suspect arrested

GRAND Bahama police made more than a dozen arrests early this week in Freeport, including the arrest of a man who is wanted for murder.

Pilots sign five-year deal with Bahamasair

BAHAMASAIR Holdings yesterday announced the signing of a five-year industrial agreement between the airline and the Bahamas Airline Pilots Association, ending two years of troubled negotiations.

Residents raise concerns over Bahama Rock blasts

THE residents of the Hawksbill Subdivision are living on edge and say they can feel their homes shaking beneath their feet because of the ongoing blasting in the nearby area of Grand Bahama.

Man in court accused of rape

A Freeport man was charged with rape on Tuesday in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court.

Accused of killing man in his home

A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after being charged in connection with the murder of a man who had been reported missing.

Let the light shine on property values

Property owners can spend thousands of dollars on renovations and refurbishments to increase the value of their property. However, there is a much easier and less expensive way to boost the value of a home, office or industrial space: Just add a little daylight.

Doctors chief urges better organisation

Primary healthcare services must become better organised, the outgoing Medical Association of the Bahamas (MAB) president said yesterday, adding that Princess Margaret Hospital’s (PMH) emergency room was often filled with patients who did not need to be there.

Canadian woman drowns while snorkelling in Exuma

AN ELDERLY Canadian woman drowned on Monday afternoon while snorkelling in waters off Exuma.

Students take a trip to the dentist

THE students of Albania Christian Academy were encouraged to establish good oral hygiene early on by a local dentist in observance of National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Fighting 'Sugar Wars'

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and the theme for 2016 is “Sugar Wars”.

Live a Fulfilling Life: Recognising stress overload

Life is full of new experiences and discoveries, deadlines and demands. This way of life can cause feelings of anxiety and stress. Stress isn’t always bad, however.

YOU GO GIRL! Dr Deborah Mackey-Nubirth promotes hearing healthcare services

ATTEMPTING to communicate via sign language with a hearing impaired playmate as a child was what first sparked Dr Deborah Mackey-Nubirth’s interest in the hearing healthcare profession.

Michelle Miller Motivational: It’s not what you eat, it’s what’s eating you!

We have all heard the saying that you are what you eat. While having a balanced diet is essential, the deeper struggle for most people goes beyond food consumption.

#Support the Puff

In a country where women make up over 50 per cent of the population, where women are the primary breadwinners in many households, where more women than men graduate from high school and college – the latter at an astounding 8:2 ratio on the extremely conservative side – women are amazingly silent.

BUN IN THE OVEN: Unanswered prayers

I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge country music fan, but the likes of Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood and Lady Antebellum have made country music much more mainstream in my opinion.

Campaign aims to show 'Natural Hair is Professional'

A new campaign launched by a local salon seeks to debunk the common misconception that natural hair has no place in corporate settings – a topic that has become a hot button issue in the Bahamas and beyond in recent weeks.

'Major failure' hits water supply

THE Water and Sewerage Corporation confirmed on Tuesday that a major failure on a 21-inch water transmission main at the southern end of Robertha Avenue (Ridgeland Park West) has interrupted water supply for scores of residents across New Providence.

PIERRE DUPUCH: Why Minnis is the strong leader the country needs

Former FNM minister and MP Pierre V L Dupuch sees history repeating itself with the party’s current woes.

POLITICOLE: Welcome to the land of Fake Gucci and armed robbery

TOURISM Minister Wilchcombe says we will increase airlift, increase marketing, increase advertising, increase stopover visitors, increase US tourist offices, but I’m not hearing him say anything about increasing the tourism product itself by way of diversification of the product, or by improving or helping to improve the country, the people, or the people’s accessible culture – in other words, the tourism product.

PAC asleep at the wheel

Why is the Chair of the Public Accounts Committee fast asleep at the wheel?

No respect for neighbours

This is an open letter directed to the new occupants of a certain “Apartment No. 3”, located within the Sandilands Village community.

Late to the parade

Re: PM: NHI Delay Likely As Govt Tries To Get It Right.

A different side of the RBDF

Thank you for allowing me time and space to share a matter of public interest to the Bahamian people, first because it involves a key “organ of national security”, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force; and second because of that vaunted responsibility, this organisation has assumed certain obligations that must be upheld.

Man faces court over airport find of gun and ammunition

A MAN was arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday afternoon concerning the recent seizure of a pistol and assortment of ammunition at an airport on a Family Island.

Chef died at his own birthday celebration

THE entire community of Green Turtle Cay is saddened over the sudden death of beloved chef Dominic Lloyd, who was celebrating his 40th birthday with friends at a party on Friday when he collapsed and died unexpectedly in Abaco.

Reaching out hands around New Providence

BAHAMAS Against Crime Executive Director C B Moss yesterday announced the expansion of his organisation’s “Hands Around Bain and Grant’s Town” project to an island-wide initiative.

Govt hopes to vote on gender bills on March 2

AFTER years of delay, the Christie administration is aiming to have a parliamentary vote on its Constitutional Amendment Bills on gender equality on March 2, with the referendum slated to take place this summer, The Tribune was told.

Union doubts priorities in university transition

UNION of Tertiary Educators of the Bahamas President Mark Humes yesterday questioned the government’s “priorities” regarding The College of The Bahamas’ transition to university status, explaining that money spent on new capital works could go towards fixing existing infrastructure issues or faculty.

Delaying convention for gender referendum ‘sounds like an excuse’

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party stalwart and former Cabinet minister George Smith said Bahamians deserve a better explanation from PLP officials as to why it has postponed its convention until November of this year, a date that will be close to the 2017 general election.

Thieves steal car with baby inside

POLICE are on the hunt for the person or persons responsible for stealing a Honda Terino late Sunday night with a six-month-old baby strapped in the backseat.

CALL TO MAKE PUBLIC ALL DOCUMENTS IN CUBAN CASE

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard yesterday urged Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell to clarify why he was seeking to grant asylum in The Bahamas for two Cuban men he now regards as “national security risks”.

Baha Mar: What did govt know?

THE Free National Movement has called on Prime Minister Perry Christie to “be transparent” and reveal whether his administration was aware that the $3.5 billion Baha Mar resort was likely to miss its March 2015 opening deadline.

Police seize gun thrown from car

POLICE seized a firearm that was thrown from a car after suspects led officers on a chase in the Blue Hill Road area.

Sisters unite for unique bartending venture

YEAR after year, come rain or shine, sisters Megan and Tia Ferguson would spend their leisure time attending various festivals throughout Bahamas together.

QC Comets celebrate victory in special ceremony

A special ceremony was held yesterday on the campus of the Queen’s College Comets as they celebrated their repeat victory as the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) track and field champions.

SPORTING MISCHIEF & MAYHEM: For me, Wilt the Stilt is the greatest scorer of all time

ONCE again a great sports debate erupted in the friendly confines of the barbershop. This time it revolved around scoring, and who was the greatest scorer all-time in the history of the NBA.

Mystic Marlins senior boys in church invite honours

AS they prepare to add the prestigious Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic title to their first Government Secondary Schools Sports Association senior boys’ basketball crown, the Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins were invited to church where they were honoured for their performance.

Happy belated 64th birthday to ‘Elisha Obed’ Ferguson

HAPPY belated birthday to Bahamian middleweight champion Everette ‘Elisha Obed’ Ferguson. On Sunday, the Bahamas’ first world boxing champion celebrated his 64th birthday at his sister’s home in Pinewood Gardens.

‘Fireman’ happy with his performance so far this year

CHRIS “Fireman” Brown says he is happy with his performance so far this year after he got a second and fourth place finish in his two races in Europe last week to get his hectic 2016 campaign started.

Next stop USA for band

THE Urban Renewal Band is looking forward to performing at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Washington, DC next month.

Valentine’s dinner for disabled in Grand Bahama

ABOUT 100 disabled persons on Grand Bahama gathered at the Foster Pestaina Hall on Thursday evening for a Valentine’s dinner and spiritual fellowship organised by Charity activist Grace Shepherd.

Two men admit robbery with cutlass of American tourist in 2010

TWO men pleaded guilty in the Supreme Court yesterday to the cutlass attack and robbery of an American visitor who had bought drugs from them.

Jury hears closing arguments for triple murder trial

A JURY yesterday listened to three hours of closing arguments from Crown and defence counsel on whether two accused men were the shooters behind the gruesome execution of three persons, including a woman due to give birth to a baby boy.

VIDEO: Close finishes set the tone for Hugh Campbell

The 33rd Hugh Campbell Tournament tipped off Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium with a trio of close finishes to set the tone for this year’s event right away.

Torchbearer fears victimisation after row

FREE National Movement Torchbearers Association third vice-president Richard Johnson yesterday said he fears he will be victimised for the part he played in “disrupting” last week’s TYA meeting while others go unpunished.

Former College principal Dr Donald Knowles dies

DR Donald Knowles, 80, first principal of the College of the Bahamas, died of a massive heart attack at the Princess Margaret Hospital at 4pm Thursday.

Accounts committee report on Urban Renewal is complete

PUBLIC Accounts Committee Chairman Hubert Chipman has said the group’s investigation into Urban Renewal 2.0 revealed that the programme is no different from any other government entity where “there are things that need to be fixed”.

The Pointe is: ‘Can we rely’ on developer?

Questions were raised yesterday over whether China Construction America (CCA) can be trusted over its $250 million investment at The Pointe, given the revelations that had it had seemingly been less than forthcoming with its Baha Mar partners.

Court approves legal action on Clifton pollution

Environmental activists have obtained Supreme Court permission to launch their long-threatened legal action over the persistent oil pollution plaguing Clifton Pier, which they believe is “damaging the economic prosperity” of the Bahamas.

‘Unforgivable’ for CCA to hide Baha Mar opening miss

An ex-Baha Mar director yesterday slammed as “unforgivable” the failure by its contractor to warn that the planned March 27, 2015, opening would be missed, arguing that an early confession could have avoided the project’s meltdown.

Earliest full Baha Mar open is winter 2017

Thanksgiving 2017 is likely the earliest date that Baha Mar can be fully open and operational, one of its potential purchasers has predicted.

Baha Mar bidder’s ‘hands are tied’

Sir Sol Kerzner and his partner have replied that “our hands are tied” over a Baha Mar bid because they have not been provided with enough information to make an informed offer.

Two arrested over murder of man found wounded in street

POLICE arrested a man and a woman yesterday morning in connection with the beating death of a man over the weekend.

Chamber chief warns over NHI ‘black hole’

NATIONAL Health Insurance (NHI) could become a “tremendous black hole” that sucks the remaining life out of the Bahamian economy if it is not properly designed and managed, a well-known private sector executive has warned.

Tourims boost from new low-cost route

SOUTHWEST Airlines, the world’s largest low-cost carrier, has announced plans to begin daily non-stop service between Fort Lauderdale and Nassau in early August.

El Faro was on Coast Guard list of at-risk vessels

THE El Faro sank just before it was to be added to a US Coast Guard list of vessels identified as having the most “potential for risk”, a designation that would have triggered more safety inspections.

WORLD VIEW: Helping Haiti to help itself

Haiti has made a firm and important first step in taking responsibility for its affairs after decades of external interference. An agreement, reached on the night of February 5, 24 hours before the Presidency of Michel Martelly ended in accordance with the Constitution, was as historic as it was vital.

INSIGHT: The FNM and its petty games

The Free National Movement (FNM) needs to make up its mind if it wants to be a serious contender for the next general election and stop engaging in petty political games.

INSIGHT: Playing for high stakes

Ownership disputes threaten to undermine gaming licensing process

WHEN the government announced the regularisation and licensing process for the gaming industry in 2014, the Bahamian people were promised a detailed vetting process that required full transparency and accountability on the part of gaming operators.

Cuban row

During my short stint in politics, I participated in a public meeting at which my good friend and then fellow senator, the late Dr Cleveland Eneas, quoted the following famous statement: “Those whom the gods would destroy they first make mad.”

FNM infighting will come to end

Please allow me to respond in kind to an editorial in your paper that commented on a letter written to your paper by one Kevin Evans on February 15th, on “attack dogs” in the FNM party.

Inquiry needed on Ruffin tax

Kindly allow me space to address this matter for clarification, regarding the unpaid casino taxes owed by the former owner of the Crystal Palace Casino, Mr. Phil Ruffin, and a related story that was reported in the Business Section of your newspaper this past Friday.

Does Mitchell want his Immigration Department to be above the law?

“THEY respect neither tradition nor the law and should be exposed for the dictatorial tendencies they secretly harbour.” These were the prophetic words of the late Sir Lynden Pindling in 1990 as he roundly condemned his once admiring protégé Fred Mitchell, who had by then left the PLP and formed his own political party. Sir Lynden, dismissing the young lawyer as a “flag burner”, predicted that those “who burn the constitution one day, would bury the people another day”.

UPDATED: Police investigate after man dies from wound to his body

POLICE in New Providence are looking into the circumstances that led to a man dying in hospital after being found on Wulff Road, near East Street with a wound in his body.

Marketing push begins for Junkanoo Carnival

THE Ministry of Tourism launched its 2016 Junkanoo Carnival marketing campaign in Washington, DC, over the weekend, showcasing the anticipated event to thousands at the Travel Adventure Show.

PM: Postpone convention until after referendum

PRIME Minister Perry Christie has recommended that the Progressive Liberal Party postpone its national convention until after the gender equality referendum, according to party Chairman Bradley Roberts.

Minnis says Butler-Turner has party’s 2017 support

FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday said Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner “definitely” has his support as the party’s 2017 general election candidate amid speculation that Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins was on that island this weekend reportedly to court party supporters.

Man dead, two injured in Freeport shootings

A MAN was shot dead and two others are in hospital following two separate shooting incidents in Freeport over the weekend.

‘I remember screams as marines beat detainees’

LAZARO Seara Marin says he remembers the deafening screams of the three men who were allegedly beaten by Royal Bahamas Defence Force marines with PVC pipes and sticks in the early morning hours of June 13, 2013, at the Carmichael Road Detention Centre.

Mitchell urged release of Cubans he now calls a risk to security

FRED Mitchell, the Minister of Immigration and Foreign Affairs, claimed on Friday that two Cubans who had been detained unlawfully for nearly three years and released by the Supreme Court last week were “national security risks”, three months after he had sought Cabinet approval for their release on parole into the Bahamian population.

WAS PM MISLED ON BAHA MAR? Chinese builder knew it was likely to miss deadline

WEEKS after Baha Mar’s contractor assured Prime Minister Perry Christie and the developer, Sarkis Izmirlian, that all was on track for a scheduled opening at the end of March 2015, the mega-resort’s contractor knew the $3.5 billion project was likely to miss the deadline.

Carifta team named

THE Bahamas Swimming Federation has selected a 36-member team, all of whom have made the qualifying standards, along with ten competitors for the Open Water swim team that will travel to Martinique next month to defend the title at the Carifta Swimming Championships that the Bahamas has won for the past two years.

Shining Knights

THE Government Secondary Schools Sports Association’s (GSSSA) Senior Track and Field Championships concluded on Friday with the CR Walker Knights celebrating as the champions, regaining the title that they lost to the CV Bethel Stingrays for the past two years.

Chamber chief calls for public insurer JV

The Chamber of Commerce’s chairman has called for the Government and insurance industry to consider a ‘joint venture’ over the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme’s proposed public insurer.

QC: Gov’t is ‘breaking Hawksbill Creek’ deal

An outspoken Government critic has urged it to stop using Freeport’s expiring investment incentives as leverage to “unlawfully break the Hawksbill Creek Agreement”.

NHI legislation requires ‘hell of a lot more work’

The draft National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill requires “a hell of a lot more work to bring it to life”, with one doctor arguing that its anti-fraud and confidentiality safeguards need strengthening.

Sarkis: Receivers ‘not pursuing’ Baha Mar’s $192m claim

Sarkis Izmirlian is accusing Baha Mar’s receivers of “failing to properly pursue” the company’s $192 million damages claim against its contractor’s Chinese parent.

CCA knew Baha Mar start doomed 2 months before

Baha Mar’s contractor knew the $3.5 billion project was likely to miss the March 27, 2015, opening just weeks after assuring Prime Minister Perry Christie and the developer, Sarkis Izmirlian, all was well.

FNM still a ‘united force to reckon with’

DESPITE being perceived as a fractured organisation, the Free National Movement “is still a united force to reckon with” ahead of the 2017 general election, FNM Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest said.

Six arrested in swoops on nightclubs

A special operation, led by officers from the Selective Enforcement Team, intensified on the weekend with the arrest of six persons for various criminal offences and the closure of several clubs for business and liquor licence violations.

Ocean Club employees facing ‘unrelenting battles’

EMPLOYEES at the One&Only Ocean Club said they are fighting “unrelenting battles” on two fronts – the worst management team staff at the Paradise Island resort have ever seen and an unsupportive union that has done little to ensure the working rights of members are being respected.

Joining forces for Freedom of Information

DECLARING the public’s right to know the public’s business, two organisations representing powerful interests and ethics convictions officially joined hands last week to urge passage of the much-touted and long-awaited Freedom of Information Act.

Police investigate after man dies from wound to his body

POLICE in New Providence are looking into the circumstances that led to a man dying in hospital after being found on Wulff Road, near East Street with a wound in his body.

Bahamian actor stars in musical’s acclaimed run

THE acclaimed musical drama “The Golem of Havana”, which features Bahamian actor Ronald Alexander Peet, has enjoyed an extended run in Miami by popular demand.

Memorial service today for ‘Bud’ Pritchard

A MEMORIAL service will be held for Sigmund “Bud” Pritchard at 6pm today at St Andrew’s Presyterian Kirk. Mr Pritchard died at his home in Nassau on Thursday after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s.

Slice wins clash of the titans with exhausted punch to down Dada

A FIGHT years in the making finally came to fruition at Bellator 149 on Saturday night and Bahamian mixed martial artist Kevin “Kimbo Slice” Ferguson emerged as the winner in a clash of heavyweight titans.

HUGH CAMPBELL BASKETBALL CLASSIC MATCH SCHEDULE

At the AF Adderley Gymnasium

Roberts wins in four sets in first victory of season

JUSTIN Roberts, the Bahamian sophomore, claimed his first college singles win of the season on Friday and helped the University of South Florida’s men’s tennis team to victory.

Non-mandatory NHI labelled ‘non-starter’

The Government’s decision to eliminate the mandatory legal requirement for all Bahamians and legal residents sign up for National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme has been labelled a “non-starter” by the Opposition’s deputy leader.

Natural history conference to be held at College of the Bahamas

THE third Bahamas Natural History Conference - organised by The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) every two years - will take place next month at the College of The Bahamas (COB) in Oakes Field.

Sports notes

HEADING into the prestigious Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic for senior boys teams in New Providence and the Geneva Rutherford Basketball Tournament for senior girls in Grand Bahama, Ossie Simmons, the guru for high school basketball, has released his top ten standings.

38-year-old man dies after collapsing at Abaco party

A 38-year-old man from Green Turtle Cay died after collapsing at a party in Abaco on Friday night.

Man dies in midnight Freeport shooting

ONE MAN has died and two others are in serious condition in the Rand Memorial Hospital after two overnight shooting incidents in Grand Bahama, police have reported.

Jamaican Matthew Sewell granted bail in sex attack case

JAMAICAN Matthew Sewell was granted $6,500 bail by a magistrate yesterday ahead of his trial concerning the latest allegation of sexual assault brought against him in the past decade.

El Faro boiler parts had ‘deteriorated severely’, hearing told

AN inspection conducted on the boilers of a ship before it sank in Bahamian waters during a hurricane last fall found parts that had “deteriorated severely” or needed to be replaced, but company engineers believed it was still safe enough to set sail, testimony at a US Coast Guard hearing revealed on Friday.

Andre Rollins reportedly 'making rounds to secure support in Long Island'

FORT Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins arrived in Long Island on Friday where sources there said he was reportedly "making rounds in an attempt to garner the support of the party" to secure the constituency nomination.

CR WALKER KNIGHTS ARE CHAMPIONS

THE CR Walker Knights regained the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association's (GSSSA) Senior High Track and Field Championships that had been in the possession of the CV Bethel Stingrays for the past two years after a resounding victory at the two-day meet on Friday at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

FIREARM OFFENCES: Nearly 20 arrested in 24 hours

NEARLY 20 people have been arrested over a number of firearm related offences in the Bahamas in the last 24 hours, police said on Friday.

Police arrest man wanted for questioning in connection with rape

A MAN wanted for questioning over a rape matter was arrested by police in Grand Bahama on Friday afternoon.

Murder suspects 'reported police abuse on admission to prison'

TWO murder suspects alleging police brutality at their trial reported abuse on admission to the prison, a Supreme Court jury heard on Friday.

School children and staff raise funds with 'Red Nose Day'

CHILDREN and staff at Palmdale Primary School, Sandilands Primary School and St Anne’s School and were among those to put on red noses for the first ‘Red Nose Day’ in The Bahamas on Friday to help raise funds for the government’s National Lunch Programme, which provides lunch for many school students.

Cubans relieved after release; Mitchell announces investigation

TWO Cubans released from prison after they were unlawfully detained for nearly three years expressed relief on Friday as Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell announced that an investigation has been launched into why the Supreme Court was persuaded to free them.

Abaco woman, 86, seriously burned in house fire

AN elderly Abaco woman sustained serious burns to the body in a house fire on Thursday night and was airlifted to hospital in New Providence for medical treatment.

A COMIC'S VIEW: The four Cs add up to Confusion

SADLY, the lyrics penned by Phil Collins in that classic hit song “Land of Confusion” are so poignant and so eerily descriptive of our present situation both politically and nationally.

Of plastic, straw and a health plan made of dreams

Gotta laugh out of the new TV ad appearing promoting a Debt Card - this one more than smart it is incredible it can read your bill and make sure the restaurant or shop only charges you the correct amount of the purchase!

Roberts responds to editorial

My attention is again drawn to the journalism terrorism of Eileen Dupuch Carron, the Publisher/Editor of The Tribune in her editorial of Tuesday, February 16, 2016 titled “Bradley Roberts questions editor’s opinion of FNM Leader”.

An April ‘roll out’ for National Health Insurance might be delayed

“You can really have no notion how delightful it will be When they take us up and throw us, with the lobsters, out to sea!”

Police at FNM meeting was ‘unfortunate’

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Frank Watson said an incident in which police were called in to the Free National Movement headquarters earlier this week to diffuse a situation was “unfortunate”, telling The Tribune “we really don’t want to be in the headlines every week”.

NHI legislation released - but no word on funding

THE draft legislation for the government’s proposed National Health Insurance scheme has been released, but officials yesterday were still uncertain on how the scheme would be funded once implemented.

Strike team found escaped murderer

A POLICE search that lasted two weeks ended Wednesday night when a special team of officers arrested escaped convicted murderer Ormand Leon at a home in bushes on Fire Trail Road.

Cubans held for three years illegally

A LAWYER who yesterday argued for the immediate release of two Cubans who were unlawfully detained in prison for nearly three years criticised the authorities for the apparent hypocrisy concerning respect for the rule of law and due process.

NHI scheme blasted as ‘a shell of a programme’

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard blasted the government yesterday for attempting to push through “a shell of a programme” in the absence of the needed prerequisites for National Health Insurance.

Convict gets extra two years in jail for escaping custody

MURDER convict Ormand Leon’s escape from custody warranted more than the two-year maximum penalty that exists on the law books, a magistrate said yesterday.

US gives boats to help drug fight

THE United States donated two new vessels to the Royal Bahamas Police Force yesterday as part of efforts to help this country deal with illegal drug trafficking.

CR WALKER KNIGHTS MARCH INTO LEAD

THE CR Walker Knights, now coached by Ednal Rolle, have emerged as the early leaders of the senior high segment of the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association’s (GSSSA) 23rd Track and Field Championships.

THE FINISH LINE: Saluting the Comets and Mystic Marlins

There’s a saying that good things come in pairs.

Bahamian trio help Holland College reach milestone

WITH a distinct Bahamian presence on both rosters, the Holland College Hurricanes basketball programmes have reached another major milestone as they prepare for a post-season run.

Mail Boat Cybots defeat the Cleaners, Athletico beat Rebels

WITH a change in venue from the AF Adderley Gymnasium to the DW Davis Gymnasium, the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) continued its regular season action on Wednesday night with Athletico Bahamas and the Mail Boat Cybots securing victories in the the double-header.

Buddy Hield’s Sooners lose three of last four games

BUDDY Hield and the No.3-ranked Oklahoma Sooners are reeling after three losses in their last four games and their first two-game losing streak of the season.

Epic victories for Bahamas Water polo teams in Florida

BAHAMAS Water Polo is celebrating after an epic last day at a prestigious tournament in Florida as both the Under-16 and the Under-14 boys teams won their respective place finals with sudden-death goals against formidable opponents.

Sports Notes

A 10-member contingent from the College of the Bahamas Caribs track and field team are off to the Embry Riddle University Meet this weekend in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Jonquel Jones in the running for Senior CLASS Award

GEORGE Washington senior Jonquel Jones has been chosen as one of 10 women’s basketball finalists for the prestigious Senior CLASS Award.

Pools decided for Hugh Campbell Tournament

THE 28-team field is set, the pools have been decided and the most anticipated basketball tournament in the country is just days away from tipoff.

Records and double victories on day one

THREE records - all on the field - and three other double victories were posted yesterday as the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) kicked of the senior high version of their 23rd annual Track and Field Championship at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

NEMA starts shipping building supplies to islands hit by hurricane

THE first set of building supplies to start the rebuilding phase on three Family Islands affected by Hurricane Joaquin last October have been shipped by the National Emergency Management Agency.

El Faro second mate texted storm warning to captain

BEFORE the freighter El Faro sank, the captain was warned by a text message from his vacationing second mate that a storm looming offshore was forecast to become a hurricane.

Big Game Club ready for expanded fishing tournament series

THE historic Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina is continuing its tradition of hosting memorable fishing tournaments by announcing an expanded series in 2016, starting next month.

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES: 02192016

Bahamas Harvest Church. - On January 27, more than 350 students attended a workshop titled “Effectively preparing for the ACT” at Bahamas Harvest Church.

Cable gains 16,600 US clients post-deal

Cable Bahamas’ US business has added 16,600 new residential customers in the two years post-acquisition, and will provide the BISX-listed provider with combined revenue growth of more than 20 per cent over the next five years.

Morton staff urged: ‘Stick it through’ on industrial deal

Morton Salt workers were yesterday urged to “stick it through”, amid calls by some union members for its president to alleviate their financial hardship by signing off on a new industrial agreement.

Gov’t makes NHI ‘non-mandatory’

The revised National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill unveiled yesterday eliminates the mandatory legal requirement for all Bahamians and legal residents to sign up for the scheme, while also tightening patient data safeguards.

Freeport suffers ‘12 years of ineptitude’

Freeport’s economic malaise is today blamed on 12 years of “ineptitude and gross mismanagement” by the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) and its affiliates, a well-known attorney bemoaning its owners’ failure to reinvest despite extracting $300 million from the city.

Public Accounts to probe Ruffin tax row

Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will next week launch a probe to “get to the bottom” of the controversy surrounding whether hotelier Philip Ruffin still owes the Government a multi-million dollar sum in unpaid casino taxes.

Medical team from Cuba arrives in the Bahamas

SIX specialist doctors arrived in The Bahamas from Cuba this week amid concerns about shortages in certain specialist areas, Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) Managing Director Herbert Brown confirmed yesterday.

IAN FERGUSON: The business questions politicians must answer

The years 2016 and 2017 are major political ones for the US and the Bahamas, with many persons already in campaign mode. Our democracy requires individuals, and their and constituencies, to decide who will govern, but the business community watches on nervously given what is at stake.

UPDATED: Recaptured killer jailed for 41 years

MURDER convict Ormand Leon, who escaped from a police bus two weeks ago, was yesterday sentenced to more than 40 years in prison after a Supreme Court judge found that he was apparently “unwilling” to remain in police custody for the court’s sentencing.

A YOUNG MAN'S VIEW – Swift Justice: A response

THIS week, Attorney General Allyson Maynard-Gibson released a non-responsive, vacuous retort to my last column, where I advocated for the independence of our judicial process and dismissed her version of swift justice as nothing more than a farcical nightmare, a headline hunting, political scheme and catchphrase. I stand by that notion.

Headlights on full

I HAVE noticed recently that as soon as darkness falls and lights are turned on, more and more drivers have their car headlights on full, thus impairing the vision of other drivers.

Keep Roberts quiet for all our sakes!

NORTH Korea Leader Kim Jung-Un is in a lot of hot water with the United States and global leaders for pursuing a nuclear programme.

Rufa case prompts alarm

I write this letter to you as a 25-year resident of Lyford Cay to express concern and trepidation regarding the treatment of second home owners Bruno Rufa, his partner Sandra Georgiou, and neighbour, Nanci Salvisburg.

PM: NHI delay likely as govt tries to get it right

PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday said his administration’s main focus is on “getting it right” regarding National Health Insurance in the aftermath of Health Minister Dr Perry Gomez’s revelation that the implementation of the healthcare scheme will “likely” be delayed.

Carnival to have smaller budget - but not yet set

TOURISM Minister Obie Wilchcombe said officials are still working to determine the budget for this year’s Junkanoo Carnival.

Frustration at delay to $2bn Andros project

FRUSTRATION is beginning to mount in the community of South Andros as the government continues to delay approval for a proposed $2 billion ten-year project despite the efforts of developers Solar Verde to meet all the “stringent requirements”.

FNM ‘is in a difficult place’

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard has conceded that the party is in a “difficult place” and facing “tremendous pressure” to settle internal disputes urgently.

VIDEO: Two Cuban detainees released after Supreme Court hearing

TWO Cubans, who have been held in detention in the Bahamas for almost three years, have been released after a Supreme Court hearing on Thursday morning.

Legal discussions held with jury absent

LEGAL discussions were held yesterday in the absence of a jury hearing evidence in the trial of two men accused of a triple murder.

Union asks for cellular licence to be reconsidered

THE executive board of the National Congress of Trade Unions of the Bahamas has asked the government to “look for a viable alternative” to Cable Bahamas Limited with respect to the country’s second cellular licence.

Trial over murders of immigration officer and girlfriend begins

THE disappearance and murders of a Department of Immigration officer and his girlfriend in Andros allegedly stemmed from a plot to take $8,000 the officer had recently obtained, a jury heard yesterday.

‘Profound economic impact’ forecast after Swiss meetings

PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday said he is “greatly encouraged” by the nature of meetings held with international shipping experts last week, the possible outcome of which he said will have a “profound” economic impact on “the future of this country.”

‘PM has failed to answer questions on loans’

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard said yesterday Prime Minister Perry Christie has “failed” to answer questions raised about the use of Bahamas Development Bank funds by persons connected to the Progressive Liberal Party.

Gov’t ‘cannot be held hostage’ by GBPA developer

Prime Minister Perry Christie yesterday pledged that the Government “cannot be held hostage” to the intentions of any Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) developer, delivering his clearest warning yet that the current owners must seek an exit route.

FNM fears doctor NHI ‘brain drain’

The Opposition’s deputy leader yesterday expressed concerns that National Health Insurance’s (NHI) proposed payment methods could drive high-qualified doctors to leave the Bahamas.

GBPA ‘shadow of former self’

The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) was yesterday branded “a shadow of its former self” by its ex-attorney, who urged Freeport’s 3,500 licensees to take the lead in defending their rights.

PM slams Ingraham Gov’t on Hutchison GB port monopoly

The Prime Minister yesterday slammed the former Ingraham administration for granting a monopoly that complicated negotiations over Carnival Cruise Lines’ new east Grand Bahama port.

Ruffin blasts Obie on casino tax claim

Philip Ruffin yesterday slammed the Minister of Tourism for publicly suggesting he and his companies still owe casino taxes to the Bahamas Government, urging him to “desist” from this position.

Falling in love with the Bahamas

COMING off the heels of winning the World Travel Award for Best Romance Destination in the Caribbean, Ministry of Tourism officials this week launched “From Bahamas With Love” – a new promotion aimed at luring tourists to the country.

Judges refuses to sentence man without psychiatric report

A JUDGE yesterday said she would not sentence a schizophrenic man concerning the stabbing death of his five-year-old brother until hearing the expert opinion of a psychiatrist who can speak to the convict’s mental state.

Conchman Triathlon set to be a ‘memorable occasion’

COMPETITORS and spectators can expect fireworks this year at Grand Bahama’s internationally-famed Conchman Triathlon.

Bahamian trio help Knights’ battle for OCAA playoff spot

WITH just the regular season finale left to play, the Bahamian trio for the Niagara College Knights will need to finish the year strongly and hope for a little help if they are to make a post-season run.

Kimbo Slice ‘to settle a score’ with Dada 500

KEVIN “Kimbo Slice” Ferguson will step back into the Bellator cage this week to settle a score with a former employee and fellow

Scotiabank hosts celebration for Bahamas Special Olympics athletes

IN keeping with Scotiabank’s social responsibility platform - Young People in the Community - which supports opportunities to give back to youth, the bank hosted more than 100 Special Olympics athletes to a fun day again this year.

Bahamian Pair star for Boilermakers

THE Bahamian connection in athletics has paid major dividends for the University of Purdue Boilermakers.

RAPTORS ARE CHAMPIONS

NOW holding the longest winning streak in high school sports, the CH Reeves Raptors captured their eighth consecutive Government Secondary Schools Sports Assocaition (GSSSA) title and again established themselves as the dominant junior track and field programme in the country.

Captain of El Faro refused vacation before ship’s ill-fated final voyage

THE captain of the freighter El Faro that sank in Bahamian waters during Hurricane Joaquin last year refused to take vacation the day before his ill-fated voyage because he wanted to use the time off to be home for his 25th wedding anniversary.

Rotary scholarship for peace studies

WHILE the world hopes for peace, Rotary International works to make it a reality by training the next generation of peace leaders.

Entrepreneur hails Island Luck scheme as a ‘lifesaver’

ISLAND Luck’s OWN Bahamas Programme has been described as a “lifesaver” for budding entrepreneurs like Youlette Etienne and others who have been recipients of grant money to launch their own businesses.

Woman jailed for two years over cocaine in knapsack

A 21-year-old New Providence woman caught with cocaine in a knapsack earlier this week at the Grand Bahama International Airport was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison.

Freeport losing its ‘second city status’

The Government and Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) were yesterday urged to work together to revive Freeport’s economy, an Opposition MP warning it had “just about lost its second city status”.

Club Med adds new Miami flight

Club Med yesterday confirmed guests that its San Salvador resort reopened on January 31, with major repairs to the ‘extensive damage’ caused by Hurricane Joaquin completed in less than three months.

Gray: No vendor will have to move their stall

AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister V Alfred Gray has declared that no vendor operating at Potter’s Cay Dock should fear losing their stall, contending that the government is only working to improve the historic site as a part of its multi-million dollar redevelopment exercise.

Web shop licences ‘could be months away’

TOURISM Minister Obie Wilchcombe said it could take months before the final licences for web shop operators are issued.

Judge orders explanation over escaped convict

A JUDGE yesterday ordered prison authorities to present themselves to the court to explain the absence of murder convict Ormand Leon from his scheduled sentencing hearing.

Migrant women most vulnerable to violence

MIGRANT women who enter The Bahamas are named as one of the most vulnerable groups to gender-based violence, some reporting being locked in homes and subjected to intimidation by the fear of extreme violence.

TOUGH CALL: What Bahamians are discussing on social media

SEVERAL recent posts on my Facebook page discussed topical issues and generated some interesting responses, which I share here.

No running water in Cat Island

Man can live without food for three to five days but will die without water for one day.

Climate change

In an effort to mitigate the risks associated with sea level increases, temperature increases and other ecological impairments, climate change scientists and leaders of developed and developing countries are co-operatively engaged in the development of greenhouse gas reduction strategies and climate change mitigation policies.

A mole within the FNM

The mole or secret agent within the FNM who is sympathetic to Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner’s cause was behind the leakage of a confidential email authored by Butler-Turner that was forwarded to FNM Chair Michael Pintard. The mole evidently was intending to further sully FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis’ leadership image by having another internal squabble between the Minnis and Butler-Turner camps publicised by The Tribune and The Nassau Guardian.

Man who raped victim in front of her child is jailed for 16 years

A MAN was sentenced to 16 years in prison yesterday for the knifepoint abduction, robbery and rape of a woman that occurred in the presence of the victim’s two-year-old child.

Protest over plan to move Potter’s Cay stalls

MEMBERS of the Potter’s Cay Fish, Fruit and Vegetable Vendors Association yesterday staged an angry protest, hoping to thwart attempts by the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resource to move a number of stalls from the site as a part of the multi-million dollar Potter’s Cay Dock redevelopment project.

Men acquitted in Bimini rape case

IT TOOK a Supreme Court jury less than two hours yesterday to acquit three Nassau men accused of gang raping a Bimini woman two years ago after a night of drinking and clubbing.

Union ‘not worried’ about jobs

BAHAMAS Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard said yesterday he is “not worried” about possible layoffs as officials seek to reorganise staff under the operations of the new Bahamas Power & Light Company Ltd.

Long Islanders support Butler-Turner, say they ‘don’t need’ Rollins there

MEMBERS of the FNM’s Long Island Constituency Association have expressed support for MP Loretta Butler-Turner, an executive of the body yesterday telling The Tribune “we don’t need him here” as she spoke of whether constituents would welcome Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins as their new representative.

Minister: NHI delay ‘likely’

HEALTH Minister Dr Perry Gomez said yesterday it is “likely” that the government will postpone the introduction of its primary healthcare phase of National Health Insurance.

BISX targets 100 new debt listings

The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) is seeking to attract more than 100 new listings, its chief executive telling Tribune Business: “We’ve turned the corner.”

Grand Lucayan workers consider going on strike

A STRIKE poll for some 600 hotel workers could take place in Grand Bahama after negotiations for a new labour agreement was not finalised as expected on Tuesday between the union and management at the Grand Lucayan Resort.

Businessman accused of firearm charges

A GRAND Bahama businessman was arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday for more than 20 various firearm and ammunition possession charges.

Hospital authority signs $7.5 equipment deal

THE Public Hospitals Authority signed an agreement yesterday for $7.5m worth of diagnostic imaging services to upgrade and expand its capacity ahead of National Health Insurance’s introduction.

FIFA keeps ball rolling for Beach World Cup

FIFA officials visited Nassau last week for working meetings with a team of more than three dozen leaders from the Bahamas Football Association, Tourism and hospitality as the country prepares to host the 2017 Beach Soccer World Cup, an event expected to draw thousands and air on 200 television stations around the world.

Officers testify that suspect had to be restrained

TWO police officers testified in the Supreme Court yesterday that a suspect detained in custody concerning a triple murder had to be restrained to prevent him from committing suicide.

Man shot multiple times

A MAN is in hospital after he was shot multiple times early Tuesday morning.

Woman arrested over drugs

A 21-year-old New Providence woman was discovered with a quantity of illegal drugs at the Grand Bahama International Airport yesterday morning.

Judge considers sentence on serial rapist

A JUDGE has reserved her decision on what sentence she will impose on a man convicted of raping a woman at gunpoint during a home invasion nearly five years ago.

Wins for Caribs and Stingers as regular season returns

AFTER an exciting All-Star weekend, the New Providence Basketball Association returned to its regular season action on Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium as the College of the Bahamas Caribs and the PJ Stingers picked up victories.

Grand Bahama schools back for Hugh Campbell tournament

AFTER they opted not to compete last year, all of the schools from Grand Bahama will be back to participate in the 33rd Hugh Campbell Basketball Tournament next week.

Industrial Tribunal ‘cannot go behind’ dispute referrals

The Industrial Tribunal “cannot go behind” a Minister of Labour’s decision to refer a trade dispute to it, even if the process is non-compliant with the law, the Court of Appeal has ruled.

Raptors roar ahead

THE CH Reeves Raptors seem to be well on their way to tightening their stranglehold on the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association’s (GSSSA) Junior High Track and Field Championships.

Lab test plan an ‘inducement’ for NHI buy-in

The Government’s push for doctors to conduct in-house laboratory testing was yesterday described as an “inducement” to entice the profession to sign-up to National Health Insurance’s (NHI) preferred care model.

‘An affront to the profession’

Medical technologists yesterday slammed the use of a National Health Insurance (NHI) forum for product promotion as “an affront to the profession”.

Chamber proposes Joaquin ‘stimulus’

The Government has been urged to expand Hurricane Joaquin-related tax breaks to storm-devastated businesses, with the private sector also calling for an amended relief model that would act as an “economic stimulus” throughout the Bahamas.

El Faro captain asked about changing route

THE captain of the doomed freighter El Faro emailed his superiors asking about changing the route home the day before his ship sank in a hurricane near the Bahamas, according to testimony yesterday at the opening of an investigative hearing.

Joaquin-hit islands are ‘still struggling’

Residents in the southern Bahamas are still “struggling” to recover almost five months after Hurricane Joaquin’s Category Fiur winds and rain devastated several Family Islands.

Enough business for Bahamas and Cuba

The Minister of Tourism yesterday said there was enough tourism business to go around, as Cuba inked an agreement authorising daily US commercial flights to the island for the first time in more than 50 years.

Gray defends BAMSI contract for former PLP minister

AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister V Alfred Gray has defended the Christie administration’s decision to award a former PLP Cabinet minister a construction contract at BAMSI, saying the government will do as much as it can for the people who supported them.

SPORTING MISCHIEF & MAYHEM: Losing sleep over ESPN’s flawed NBA greats list

I must admit after seeing the ESPN Top Ten NBA Players of All Time, I was haunted by the flaws.

Student designs winning logo

TO get a younger demographic thinking and talking about disabilities and related issues, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities launched a logo design competition in all secondary and high schools last October.

POLITICOLE: All kinds of love and the feel-good factor

As a female, born and raised in The Bahamas, having lived in The Bahamas for all of my life with the exception of college years, I can confidently admit on behalf of my country that self-love is something Bahamians still have less of than they really should.

Now it’s Nottage . . .

In his vainglorious attempt to sell the idea of a nationalised healthcare system (NHI), Dr. Bernard Nottage inadvertently calls the government healthcare system into question.

Unemployment

The comment as to how we can possibly correct our unacceptable level of unemployment is totally mired in politics - the constant is laughable that even if the Ministry of Labour challenges the accuracy of the Department of Statistics.

Another light sentence

Anyone following sentencing by Magistrates for gun possession, and then following the names of repeat offenders that pop up every few months or years, charged with the same offence, will be left with no sense of wonderment as to the principle reason for the high rate of gun violence in the country.

Bradley Roberts questions editor’s opinion of FNM leader

AS A general rule, we ignore Bradley Roberts as a remnant of the PLP’s dictatorial past and not worthy of our attention.

Four discharged in Bimini rape court case

FOUR of seven Nassau men accused of gang raping a Bimini woman two years ago were discharged after a nine-man jury was directed by the judge to bring back a not guilty verdict against them.

PM declines to provide details of equality referendum plans

PRIME Minister Perry Christie was noncommittal yesterday about the proposed constitutional referendum on gender equality, providing no specifics on when a vote on key legislation concerning the matter will be taken in Parliament.

Ex-cop ‘admitted in interview’ to sex with teenage girl

EDMUND Lewis Jr allegedly admitted, in his record of interview with police, to filming his sexual encounters with a teenage girl he had met in September 2014, a magistrate was told yesterday.

Bahamas has worst total in region for rapes

THE Bahamas leads the Caribbean in the number of recorded rapes followed by St Vincent, the Grenadines and Jamaica, a new report by the National Task Force for Gender Based Violence revealed yesterday.

Butler-Turner angry at snub

LONG Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner has rebuked FNM Chairman Michael Pintard over accusations that he and other party executives were planning to hold an executive meeting in her constituency on Friday without consulting her, which she said is in contravention of the FNM’s protocols.

Cicely Tyson to be given honour at BIFF party

CICELY Tyson, the award-winning film, television and stage actress, will be the first to be honoured with the prestigious Sir Sidney Poitier Tribute Award at this year’s Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) Oscar Party later this month.

Dentistry for children

February is being celebrated as National Children’s Dental Health month. During the month, dental communities focus on the special dental needs of children.

Love from a healthy heart

ON Sunday we celebrated Valentine’s Day. Wherever we went we saw shop windows plastered with hearts and messages declaring that “Love is in the air”.

'Phenomenal' Heart Ball meets its goals

THE 52nd annual Heart Ball was nothing short of “phenomenal”, according to organisers, and provided guests with an evening full of glitz and glamour, while also fulfilling the purpose of raising funds to help children who need urgent heart care.

Unacceptable black beauty

We live in fear of not being white enough, not being pretty enough, not being rich enough, not being skinny enough. We are now perhaps the most bleached, mentally colonised, self-hating country in the region.

Live a Fulfilling Life: The cost of being sick

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, more than 75 per cent of chronic diseases are preventable, and often the same diseases are reversible. This is exciting if you are facing a disease right now or have a family history of disease.

Lignum Vitae Centre of Hope invites to 'Women, Wine & Movies'

THE women that make up the Lignum Vitae Centre of Hope are inviting people to join them this Thursday as they introduce the first instalment of a series of fundraising events in aid of the organisation which hopes to make a positive impact on Bahamian society.

BUN IN THE OVEN: Stress-free infant travel

Travelling for many people is stressful. Add an infant or toddler to the picture and it’s enough to make even the most seasoned parent anxious.

Top student Tyja Braynen selected for presidential inauguration summit

SIXTEEN-year-old Bahamian student Tyja Braynen has been given the opportunity of a lifetime – to witness the swearing-in of the next president and vice president of the United States.

Caring Caden launches 'Red Nose Day' in the Bahamas

It was just a few months ago when 11-year-old Caden Levae Smith had a eye-opening experience that would lead to her launch an international fundraising campaign right here in the Bahamas.

Sharing their love stories

VERY couple has their own, unique story about how their relationship came to be.

Bahamas Darts Federation hosts Gold Cup

ABACO, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera and New Providence provided plenty of excitment as the islands competed for the Bahamas Darts Federation Gold Cup championship.

Deandre Ayton stars in NBA’s Basketball Without Borders camp

DEANDRE Ayton continues to maintain his position as the most sought after prospect in high school basketball.

‘Tum Tum’ Nairn Jr returns from injury in Spartans victory

HE HAD little impact on the stat sheet on his return to the floor but the Michigan State Spartans are willing to accept their floor general in a limited role in an effort to provide a lift to the team.

Leevan Sands aiming for his ‘best ever season opener’

WHEN the Chris Brown Bahamas Invitational (CBBI) returns for its second version on April 16 at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium, one of the marquee events will be the men’s triple jump, featuring Bahamian national record holder Leevan ‘Superman’ Sands.

Sidney Poitier wins BAFTA award

SIR Sidney Poitier, 88, accepted a lifetime achievement award by video link from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards on Sunday night.

Search for missing girl

Police are asking the public’s help in finding 15- year-old Esther Forbes, of Alexander Road, Sunset Park, who was reported missing by family members on Saturday.

Chamber: BISX tie-up ‘fantastic new method’ for financing SMEs

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) yesterday confirmed it was in talks with BISX over a “fantastic new paradigm in how businesses are funded”.

FNM to press over Ruffin’s unpaid taxes

FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest said the opposition will press Prime Minister Perry Christie in Parliament about billionaire investor Philip Ruffin’s failure to pay millions of dollars in owed casino taxes.

Minister rules out Investor Citzenship

A Cabinet Minister yesterday ruled out an ‘Investor Citzenship’ programme to boost the Bahamian economy and financial services sector, saying such a reform was “not so palatable” in the current environment.

Technologists fear quality ‘compromised’ under NHI

Medical technologists have expressed “serious concerns” that healthcare quality could be “compromised” by the Government’s plan for doctors to conduct laboratory tests themselves under National Health Insurance (NHI).

NHI ‘doomed to fail’ if enrolment is not mandatory

The Government’s proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme is “doomed to fail” if it abandons plans to make participation mandatory for all Bahamians and legal residents, a well-known physician said yesterday.

Cable targeting 42% mobile market share

Cable Bahamas believes mobile penetration could increase by up to 33 percentage points when it finally breaks the Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) long-standing monopoly, as it slammed the “inherent dissatisfaction” with the latter’s services.

Resorts World Bimini donates to local clinic

BIMINI’S primary health care facility will soon be better equipped to meet the needs of the island’s residents and visitors thanks to a donation by Resorts World Bimini.

Yolett McPhee-McCuin makes a splash with the Dolphins

IN HER third year at the helm, Yolett McPhee-McCuin continues to transform the Jacksonville University women’s basketball programme into a contender in the Atlantic Sun Conference.

Athletes on their marks for GSSSA Track and field Championships

AFTER hosting a successful basketball championship series at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium last week, the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) will switch its focus of attention to their track and field championships this week at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

Arbitration inserted into BEC agreement

Dispute resolution clauses providing for arbitration were included in recent Heads of Agreement struck with international investors, as the Government seeks to make this the “standard” for all its commercial dealings.

Man dies in Adelaide Road crash

A 37-year-old man became the country’s latest traffic fatality after he lost control of his vehicle and slammed into another car Sunday night.

UPDATED: Man shot dead while driving

A MAN crashed into a wall and died moments after he was shot in the head while driving through the Coconut Grove area yesterday evening.

Can Sanders trump Trump?

IN the United States, particularly in Washington DC the nation’s capital, it is impossible to escape the current elections by the Republican and Democratic parties to choose a candidate to represent them in the contest for a new President later this year.

Attorney General responds to Tribune columnist

ATTORNEY General Allyson Maynard-Gibson last night issued a press release in response to Tribune columnist Adrian Gibson’s article in Thursday’s edition.

INSIGHT: A little less talk - more action

2015 was the worst year on record for violent crime in The Bahamas.

More evidence of judicial failure

While it gives me no pleasure to continue to point out the direct and indisputable role that Bahamian Judges and their inept decisions play in the continued breakdown of law and order in The Bahamas, I feel it would be irresponsible on my part not to highlight on a consistent basis the weekly instances that evidence that link.

What would Nero do?

Re: Nottage Preparing To Make Music Not War (The Tribune, February 2).

Time to call off the attack dogs

Long Island MP Loretta Butler-Turner should give serious consideration to calling off the attack dogs from her camp, who have launched an aggressive smear campaign against FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis.

Hubert Minnis’ ‘attack dogs’ are to blame

ON THIS page today is a letter from Mr Kevin Evans, a frequent letter writer to The Tribune, and from the beginning a loyal supporter of Dr Hubert Minnis as FNM leader.

Tax no foundation for a ‘progressive’ govt

FORMER Progressive Liberal Party Cabinet minister George Smith said the Christie administration cannot claim to be the country’s most “progressive” government if it is pinning this accomplishment on value added tax and the introduction of National Health Insurance.

Minnis calls for more aggressive policing

FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday he saw “nothing substantive” in Commissioner Ellison Greenslade’s policing plan for 2016 and warned that if officers “do not get more aggressive” the crime problem will never change.

UPDATED: Man stabbed to death during argument

A 35-year-old man became the country’s latest murder victim when he was stabbed multiple times during an argument with another man Saturday night.

‘No surprise’ at NHI delay talk

A LEADING surgeon yesterday criticised the Christie administration after an official suggested that a delay in the primary care phase of National Health Insurance is a possibility, saying it “speaks to a level of administrative incompetence that we have not seen in the history of a sovereign Bahamas”.

Duo take the spotlight in classic all-star classic match-up

LIVINGSTON Munnings and Michael Bain went out on a scoring spree as the New Providence Basketball Association’s All-Star Classic turned out to be one for the ages on Friday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.

Ministry seeks ‘amicable’ resolution in row over student’s natural hairstyle

THE Ministry of Education released a statement yesterday saying it hoped to “amicably” resolve a dispute between a parent of a child at C R Walker Senior High School and administrators over the student’s natural hairstyle.

BIA unhappy at govt communication

THE Bahamas Insurance Association yesterday criticised the government for having “long lulls” between meetings with the group over the administration of National Health Insurance.

BISX finds partner to ‘revive’ Junior Market

The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) is aiming to unveil a partnership by end-March that will “revive” its long-planned junior market facility.

Bank of Bahamas still violating key capital indicators

Long-suffering Bank of the Bahamas shareholders incurred a further $3.392 million loss during the final three months of 2015, with the institution still non-compliant with key capital ratios.

Liquidation regime bar to $17m asset recovery

A Cayman bank’s liquidators cannot collect on almost $17 million in Bahamas-based assets because this nation’s regime for assisting international cross-border insolvencies is incomplete.

BISX: We can help repatriate millions stashed overseas

BISX can be the vehicle for Bahamians to repatriate”the millions and billions” they have stashed abroad, with its chief executive urging “a change in dialogue” over exchange controls.

US: Bahamas goes further than WTO on copyright protection

The US government says the Bahamas has gone further than what is required for full World Trade Organisation (WTO) membership in its efforts to protect intellectual properties.

Wilson soars to qualifying mark

IF it wasn’t official when he did it at the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ Odd Distance Track Meet in January, Jamal Wilson soared over the qualifying mark for the Olympic Games again in a meet in Linz, Austria, on Friday.

Heavy coverage keeps Hield down

Their first meeting produced a game for the ages, and in the much anticipated rematch, the No 6 Kansas Jayhawks once again got the best of Buddy Hield and the No 3 Oklahoma Sooners.

Taking on the challenge of the Potcakeman

The Potcakeman Triathlon Super Sprint Team Relay Race took place yesterday with teams taking on the challenge of running, swimming and cycling along the route.

Tum Tum back on the court after a month out

Exactly a month after he was sidelined due to injury, Lourawls, “Tum Tum” Nairn Jr made his return to the court for the No 8 ranked Michigan State Spartans.

Ministers expose Gov’t healthcare shortcomings

In his vainglorious attempt to sell the idea of a nationalised healthcare system (National Health Insurance), Dr Bernard Nottage inadvertently calls the Government healthcare system into question.

‘Ship has not sailed’ over aircraft registry

The “ship has not sailed” on the Bahamas’ window of opportunity to create an aircraft registry, an aviation attorney arguing it should still purue this.

Mitchell dismisses foreign homeowner ‘exodus’ fear

The Minister of Foreign Affairs has dismissed Fred Smith’s fears that the Immigration Department’s actions will spark a second homeowner “exodus” in Freeport.

Man in hospital after being shot by police

A man is in hospital under heavy police guard after being shot by an officer on Saturday night.

Hunt for suspects after Madeira Street stabbing

Police are searching for suspects after a man was stabbed on Madeira Street in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Firearm charges against family members withdrawn after one pleads guilty

A family of four was arraigned on Friday in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on firearm, ammunition and drug possession charges. However, the charges were withdrawn against three members of the family after one pleaded guilty.

Police statistics: 2015 saw highest traffic deaths total in over five years

A total of 55 people died as the result of traffic accidents in 2015, the most in a year since 2009 when 56 people were killed, according to Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) statistics.

Officer denies police beating of murder accused

A POLICE officer on Friday denied having knowledge about officers allegedly beating one of two men accused of committing a triple murder while in custody five years ago.

Comets soar to repeat as champions

If you thought last year’s victory was a fluke, the Queen’s College Comets left nothing to chance in 2016 and fortified their claim as the top athletics programme among private schools.

A COMIC'S VIEW: WHERE HAS THE PM GONE THIS TIME?

Anybody home?

Road Traffic failure

Kindly allow me space in your columns to lodge a complaint with the Road Traffic Department as their phone rang unanswered this morning.

Better without

IN today’s Tribune, there seems to be great concern as to who is standing in for PM Christie, while he is away in Switzerland, dealing with urgent matters with Mediterranean Shipping Company. Who cares who is in charge?

The truth about being gay

Hello I’m a gay Bahamian teen in Nassau and I have lived here for my whole life not being anywhere else I attend church and have a mother and father.

Marijuana seizures drop, more cocaine intercepted

POLICE marijuana seizures decreased last year compared to 2014, however there was a slight increase in the amount of cocaine seized during the same time period, according to the latest drug statistics.

‘Where are the tougher measures on crime?’

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard has blasted the Christie administration for its “dereliction of duty” after the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s 2016 policing plan failed to reveal tougher crime fighting measures.

No word on budget for Carnival with three months to go until event

WITH this year’s Junkanoo Carnival three months away, Bahamas National Festival Commission officials yesterday could not say how much money has been budgeted for the upcoming event.

Couple face court over firearms charges

A husband and wife were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday afternoon facing almost three dozen firearms related charges stemming from the recent seizure of a large cache of handguns and assorted ammunition in Freeport.

FNM rejects ‘racist’ claim

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard yesterday denounced former Cabinet member Tennyson Wells for calling Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn “racist”.

QC fears Freeport 2nd home ‘exodus’

Freeport will “suffer tremendously” if the Immigration Department’s actions over Bruno Rufa and the Coral Beach condominium complex spark a second homeowner “exodus”, a QC warned yesterday.

Taking training seriously at judo programme

CURRENTLY over 40 members are in the judo training programme.

Pushathon calls out for helping hands

On Saturday, April 23, the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre will host its fifth annual Geriatric Pushathon, which will involve seniors and staff from the Geriatric Hospital as well as members of the public.

Team Strikers get boxing training in Havana

THE Team Strikers are back from another successful training camp held at the National Boxing Academy of Cuba in Havana, which brought the boxers one step closer to Olympic glory.

Burrows and Bromwell help Tigers Roar in Ontario, Canada

Shamar Burrows and Livingston Bromwell continue to make history for the Ridley College Tigers basketball programme in St Catharines, Ontario, Canada.

Sports Notes

THE Bahamas Hot Rod Association will hold a Race of Love on Valentine’s Day on Sunday at 2pm at the Bahamas Motor Sport Park. The event is under the theme: “Burndown at Sundown.”

THE FINISH LINE: A new twist to annual bout of February Fever

The NCAA Basketball Association is gearing up for their March Madness next month when Chavano ‘Buddy’ Hield and the Oklahoma Sooners are expected to lead the charge for a couple of Bahamian basketball players in action for their respective teams.

ZIKA VIRUS: Bahamas undecided on Olympic involvement

Bahamas Olympic team doctor Dr Rickey Davis said the Bahamas Olympic Committee (BOC) is monitoring all Zika virus advisories from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil before a decision is made on whether to travel to this summer’s event.

Bahamas to host Sport for Life Symposium

THE Bahamas Olympic Committee has joined forces with the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees to put on a Sport For Life symposium.

NPBA All-Star Classic takes place tonight

THE New Providence Basketball Association, which continued its regular season action on Wednesday night with a double header at the AF Adderley Gymnasium, will stage its version of the All-Star Classic tonight.

Jamaican man must wait on bail decision

A JAMAICAN must wait another week before he learns whether he will be granted bail ahead of trial concerning the alleged sexual assault of an underaged girl.

Clubs and Societies: 02122016

Bahamas Human Resources Association. - On Thursday, January 28, the Paul H. Farquharson Conference Center was all abuzz with excitement, laughter and talk as the Bahamas Human Resources Association (BHRA), under the theme “Grow. Achieve. Lead,” installed seven HR professionals to the 2016 executive board. At the helm of this board is President Villiemae Black, HR manager at the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC).

Comets edge closer to repeating as champions

The Queen’s College Comets are one step closer to repeating as BAISS Track and Field champions for the first time in history, but will have to fend off their rivals St. Augustine’s College Big Red Machine in order to do so.

Few to listen at event to discuss NHI proposals

DESPITE it’s “open for input” mantra, the National Health Insurance Bahamas’ public consultation series was launched here in New Providence last night to a sparse crowd.

‘PLP just as fractured as the FNM’

WHILE the Free National Movement has struggled to keep its internal turmoil out of public view, FNM supporter Tennyson Wells says the Progressive Liberal Party is equally fractured.

Global stock volatility ‘rather disconcerting’

A former finance minister yesterday described the latest bout of global stock market volatility as “rather disconcerting” for the Bahamas, adding it was occurring when this nation “can least afford it.”

Cruise ‘home port’ only MSC driver for Grand Lucayan

Any Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) interest in purchasing the Grand Lucayan resort would likely relate to plans to make Freeport a ‘home port’ for its cruise ships, Tribune Business was told yesterday.

BTC plan to ‘attack’ Cable’s home ground

The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) plans to “attack” Cable Bahamas on its home turf in response to losing its mobile monopoly, with its ‘fibre-to-the-home’ infrastructure set to pass 20,000 New Providence homes by end-March.

BTC’s 9% mobile fall undermines its owner

The 9 per cent contraction in the Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) mobile revenues for the three months to end-December 2015 helped undermine its owner’s top-line growth, it was revealed yesterday.

Handwritten passports cancelled next week

AS of February 19 all handwritten Bahamas passports will be cancelled and become null and void, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised yesterday.

Chicago partners help bring tennis equipment to Bahamas kids

THE National Tennis Centre (NTC) has partnered with the Oak Park Tennis Center in Chicago, Illinois, and will hold a special one-day clinic for children associated with the Urban Renewal Programme this Saturday, February 13th at the NTC.

Bahamian renewable participation queried

A local provider yesterday queried whether Bahamian firms would be part of PowerSecure’s vision to integrate solar energy into its Family Islands generation solutions, while calling for clarity on the Government’s residential energy self-generation (RESG) initiative.

IAN FERGUSON: The tolerant approach to ‘honey and money’

February is traditionally known as the month of love. In keeping with the season of Valentine, we briefly take a look at the issue of office romance. The natural question, as we introduce this topic, is: ‘Do we or don’t we?’ For many of us the workplace is where we spend a large percentage of our waking hours. It is not just where we go to do our jobs; it is also the place where we eat many meals, and develop and maintain friendships that last beyond office hours.

UPDATED: Man found dead in home, second victim shot

POLICE discovered the dead body of a man who was being electronically monitored with bruises about the neck in a house in the Shirley Street area yesterday.

Taxi blaze holds up early morning traffic

EARLY morning traffic was backed up and had to be diverted Thursday morning after a taxi bus caught fire on Bay Street.

Major overhaul needed

My thanks to Dr Nottage, who has hired professional help from the FBI at last. But I’m still wondering something.

Minnis camp playing race card?

The Free National Movement has been the most inclusive, impartial, multi-racial political party in the history of The Bahamas.

A response to Dept of Immigration

The Department of Immigration took a poor view of my position in my letter of January 17 titled “Rufa case hurts our nation”, accusing me of making assertions that are “materially incorrect and without foundation” and of outlining a history in the case that is simply “wrong” as it relates to how it has treated Canadian citizen and long-time Freeport resident, Bruno Rufa.

14 police discharged from force in 2015

FOURTEEN police officers were discharged from the Royal Bahamas Police Force in 2015, a number of whom “went before the courts charged for criminal offences”, Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade said yesterday.

Police look at devices to secure prisoners in transport

THE Royal Bahamas Police Force is “looking into new devices to use” for transporting prisoners to and from the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services, Commissioner of Police Ellison Greenslade said yesterday.

NEMA signs deal to build two homes in Acklins

THE National Emergency Management Agency yesterday signed agreements to build two homes in the southern Bahamas as part of rebuilding efforts related to Hurricane Joaquin.

A YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: Swift Justice is nothing but a catchphrase

THE so-called Swift Justice Programme has yielded little and has, in all truth, the potential to negatively impact the public’s perception of judicial independence, undermines any notion of public confidence in the justice system and infringes upon the constitutional separation of powers.

Pintard calls for clarity over loan for senior official

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard yesterday insisted that Prime Minister Perry Christie and Works Minister Philip “Brave” Davis clarify the circumstance surrounding claims that a former senior government official was granted a substantial loan from the Bahamas Development Bank.

Child pornography accounts for 9% of all cyber crimes

THERE were 118 reported cases of cyber crime in the country in 2015, nearly 25 per cent of which were comprised of child pornography matters and online threats combined, according to data contained in the latest police crime statistics.

UPDATED: Dead man's 'badly burned' body found in Abaco

A MAN’s burnt body was found in bushes in Abaco late Tuesday night, marking that island’s first homicide for the year.

CRIME STATISTICS: Murders, rapes and armed robberies up

LAST year was a “terrible and disgraceful” one with the country experiencing record numbers of murders, rapes and armed robberies, Commissioner of Police Ellison Greenslade said yesterday.

No word on who is acting PM as Christie leaves country

PRIME Minister Perry Christie left the country on Tuesday afternoon to attend a series of private discussions in Geneva, Switzerland with Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) officials, The Tribune was told. He is expected to return on Sunday.

Man shot dead on West Bay Street

A MAN was shot dead on West Bay Street late Wednesday night, police said.

Man who was ‘shot eight times’ jailed for illegal gun possession

A MAN who allegedly acquired a handgun to protect himself from people making a third attempt on his life was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

‘Drunk’ man jailed for showing off with gun

A MAN who was caught with a loaded pistol was fined $2,000 and sentenced to ten months in prison.

College students donate $1,365 to hurricane relief

THE College of The Bahamas Union of Students yesterday donated $1,365 to the National Emergency Management Agency to aid in hurricane relief efforts to the southern Bahamas.

Chicken producer in 25% production fall

An Abaco-based poultry producer said yesterday its production had dropped 20-25 per cent over the past 18 months because some Bahamian wholesalers simply did not want to “play ball” and buy local.

NIB defaulters ‘hard pressed’ to win Gov’t bids

The National Insurance Board’s (NIB) compliance chief yesterday warned tax and contribution defaulters that they will be “hard pressed” to win Government contracts, due to improved collaboration between its key agencies.

The pumpkin that grew and grew and grew . . .

ZELDA Bevans intends to share her mother’s latest gift – a 50 pound pumpkin grown on her farm in South Andros – with family and friends.

‘Get Freeport back to work’

A former Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) in-house attorney yesterday urged the Government to renew Freeport’s expiring tax incentives immediately, arguing: “Let’s get the island back to work.”

NIB suffers 30-40% ‘repeat default’ rate

The National Insurance Board (NIB) yesterday pledged to this year launch an aggressive “zero tolerance” campaign against non-compliance, starting with the 30-40 per cent of businesses who default on agreed plans to pay-off existing arrears.

Mystic Marlins finally capture title

Third time’s a charm. After falling to the CI Gibson Rattlers in the 2014 and 2015 GSSSA Senior Boys finals, the Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins finally captured the elusive championship title.

Queen’s College Comets ahead after day one

After bringing an end to the country’s longest winning streak in high school sports last year, the Queen’s College Comets are looking to start a streak of their own.

DW DAVIS ROYALS TAKE THE CROWN IN JUNIOR BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP

Perennial contenders for the GSSSA Junior Boys title, the DW Davis Royals regained a familiar spot atop the league as they reclaimed the championship title.

Tennis ace Philip Major makes strong start to year

His run at his latest stop on the pro circuit may have come to an end but 19-year-old Bahamian tennis ace Philip Major has made a strong start to the year.

Mystic Marlins senior girls victorious

The Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins completed one half of the sweep in GSSSA basketball early yesterday evening with the crowning of their Senior Girls.

PM urged: Stop the ‘false hope’ over Baha Mar

The Prime Minister has been urged to stop giving Bahamians “false hope” that a Baha Mar resolution is imminent, with the $3.5 billion development unlikely to be fully open before the next general election.

Over 900 traffic accidents in 2015 in Grand Bahama

MORE than 900 traffic accidents occurred on Grand Bahama last year, and the Grand Bahama Road Safety Committee, the Police Traffic Division, and other stakeholders are hoping to significantly reduce that number by 30 per cent over a three-year period.

Bimini man charged with murder

A 24-year-old Bimini man was charged with murder and illegal firearm possession in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.

Double murder trial delayed

THE expected start of a trial into the disappearance and murders of a Department of Immigration officer and his girlfriend in Andros has been delayed by six days.

Data Protection chief seeks NHI Bill change

The Data Protection Commissioner yesterday confirmed her office is seeking amendments to the Government’s draft National Health Insurance Bill, effectively backing doctors’ concerns that some clauses threaten the confidentiality of doctors’ patient records.

ART OF GRAPHIX: Choose fonts for a ‘true’ outcome

TrueType is a standard for digital type fonts that was developed by Apple Computer. Each company has made independent extensions to TrueType, which is used in both Windows and Macintosh operating systems.

‘Just crazy’: 50-60% of avocados wasted

A Bahamian poultry producer yesterday said it was “just crazy” that 50-60 per cent of its avocados are simply being “wasted on the ground”, as it blamed Bahamian wholesalers for not buying.

View From Afar: Investing in human capital key to a brighter Bahamas

THERE are many Bahamians who need gainful employment.

More nonsense from Minnis

Just when it looked like FNM Leader Hubert Minnis may have exhausted his propensity for foolishness he comes up with more of the silly stuff. His latest nonsense is his continued coddling of Senator Lanisha Rolle after her unprecedented and savage attack on the FNM’s sitting Members of Parliament.

Patronage and purges

Enquiring minds all over this country want to know what’s wrong with the Free National Movement. They ask and then answer their own question. Dr Hubert Minnis is what’s wrong with the once great party.

FNM Party convention urgent - must be held within the month

TO us, Dr Hubert Minnis as leader of the FNM is a mystery “wrapped up in an enigma”.

Bahamian jailed for 60 months over human smuggling

A 32-year-old Bahamian man has been sentenced to 60 months in a Florida prison following his second conviction for human smuggling.

FNM ‘most powerful political organisation’

CHAIRMAN Michael Pintard last night called the Free National Movement “the most powerful political organisation” in the country as the party officially introduced two of its general election 2017 candidates.

‘Time to stop using the race card in politics’

FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette yesterday spoke out against remarks made by Tennyson Wells, blasting the former parliamentarian and Cabinet minister for using political tactics that should be “relegated to history books”.

UPDATED: Police find further $2m of cocaine on seized boat

POLICE seized nearly $2m worth of cocaine from a boat in Inagua Sunday afternoon two weeks after they first discovered $20,000 worth of cocaine in the same vessel.

Crown Land renewable plan is ‘slap in the face’

The Opposition’s deputy leader yesterday described plans by the ‘new BEC’s’ manager to use Family Island Crown Land for solar farms as “a slap in the face to the Bahamian people”, while questioning the absence of a long-term business plan.

Three UK coaches signed up for Sir Jack Hayward Soccer Camp

THREE top young coaches from the United Kingdon are already signed up for this year’s Sir Jack Hayward Soccer Camp in Grand Bahama in June.

Texas training move pays off as Armbrister turns in personal best

CACHE Armbrister is hoping that a change in training location from Kingston, Jamaica, to Houston, Texas, will enable her to finally make her breakthrough as a competitor in an individual event at the IAAF World Indoor Championships and the Olympic Games this year.

Thomas sets new best as high jump series kicks in

AS the International High Jump series kicked off between some of the top men in the world, Donald Thomas turned in a personal best in posting a third place finish in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia, last Thursday.

Hield the hero at the last

CHAVANO “Buddy” Hield has had some big games in his four years with the Oklahoma Sooners but one of the most memorable came on Monday night, when he canned a three-pointer with 1.3 seconds remaining to help secure a 63-60 victory over the Texas Longhorns.

Marlins shake the Rattlers

THE Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins found a way to hold off the defending champions, CI Gibson Rattlers, to snatch game one of their Government Secondary Schools Sports Association’s (GSSSA) best-of-three senior boys basketball championship series last night at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.

Moss says facts distorted over fight to save Clifton

REVEREND C B Moss yesterday accused officials at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture of a “deliberate distortion of the facts” surrounding the process to protect the Clifton area.

VIDEO: Passengers tell of cruise ship terror

US Federal transportation officials might soon be investigating a Royal Caribbean cruise ship that ran into high winds and rough seas in the Atlantic Ocean over the weekend on its way to Florida and the Bahamas.

Central Bank: Bad loans below $1bn by year-end 2017

The Central Bank of the Bahamas believes that commercial bank ‘bad loans’ will dip below the $1 billion mark by the end of 2017, with institutions only requiring more capital if they increase by 200 per cent.

Bran blasts ‘spending like drunken sailors’

The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) leader yesterday accused the Government of squandering its Value-Added Tax (VAT) revenue boost, saying: “We seem to be spending money like drunken sailors.”

‘Drastic improvement’ in Investments Board turnaround speed

The Investments Board was yesterday said to have produced “a drastic improvement in turnaround time” on permit approvals, although a Cabinet Minister conceded that the process has yet to meet private sector standards.

Gov’t ‘exhausts’ 95% of deficit projection

The Government used up 95 per cent of its projected 2015-2016 full-year deficit within the first five months, the Chamber’s chairman arguing this shows the Bahamas cannot escape its fiscal predicament via new taxes alone.

PLP chairman says ‘deep-seated division’ in FNM is clear

PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts said it is evident there is “deep-seated division” within the Free National Movement after Montagu MP Richard Lightbourn revealed he had been called “racist” at a party meeting because of his criticism of proposed tax breaks for Over-the-Hill communities.

Trial delay for ex-cop accused of child porn

THE trial of a former police constable accused of producing child pornography did not begin yesterday due to the absence of a stenographer and conflicting schedules for witnesses in the case.

Two men in rape case say woman gave consent

A POLICE investigator told the Supreme Court yesterday that two of the seven men accused of rape admitted to having consensual sex with a Bimini woman who had also given her permission for their friends to have sex with her after a night of drinking and partying at several night clubs.

Pathologist: No evidence of women being shot at close range

A pathologist testified yesterday that she saw no evidence of close range fire in an autopsy she performed concerning two of three victims who were fatally shot.

Repairs to veteran’s home ‘delayed by hurricane’

URBAN Renewal Co-Chair Algernon Allen on Monday said repairs to the home of a World War II veteran seemingly forgotten during a previous cycle of the Small Homes Repair programme has been delayed due to funds being “shifted” towards hurricane relief efforts.

Solar AC shines for savings light

Where did winter go? Just the other week we were wearing warm jackets, but now it feels like summer is already here. The forecast for this summer, like every year in the Bahamas, is sunny and hot.Normally, this means just one thing: Ya’ll ga sweat. Today, however, we will see how you can use the sizzling summer sun to remain cool.

Union slams wait on Morton Salt decision

The union representing more than 100 Morton Salt line-staff yesterday blasted the year-long wait for a legal decision in the two sides’ dispute over overtime and a proposed base salary increase for workerst.

Financial union urges lower business costs

The Bahamas Financial Services Union (BFSU) yesterday urged the Government to reduce the cost of doing business in this nation, in a bid to halt the industry’s contraction and outsourcing of jobs to lower-cost Caribbean rivals.

Unions meet with new NHI adviser

A trade union leader said yesterday that ensuring there was no “drop-off’ in health insurance benefits currently enjoyed by his membership was among the major concerns with the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme.

Two policemen charged with manslaughter over Aaron Rolle's death in custody

TWO policemen were granted $18,000 bail on Tuesday following their arraignment in connection with the beating death of Aaron Rolle exactly three years after the 20-year-old was found dead in a police station cell.

Seven injured after rogue wave smashes Bo Hengy cabin windows

SEVEN people were taken to hospital on Monday night after a “rogue wave” struck the Bo Hengy III while the boat was passing through the ‘Devil’s Backbone’ on its way back to the capital.

Live a Fulfilling Life: Hypertension – a holistic perspective on treatment

What is the difference between high blood pressure and hypertension?

Cancer patients, survivors and caregivers get together for 'Hugs & Mugs'

WITH the goal of taking patients’ minds off their illness and helping them deal with sometimes difficult treatment procedures, the Cancer Society of the Bahamas has introduced the “Hugs & Mugs” programme.

Michelle Miller Motivational: Are you asking the ‘right’ questions?

One of the core principles emphasised in my public speaking programme is the importance of thinking critically and asking the ‘right’ questions. To speak well you must think well.

Men need to learn, but society is not responsible

I keep hearing well-meaning people say that boys and young men need to learn how to be better people. They need to learn how not to be angry, how not to kill, how not to steal and rape.

BUN IN THE OVEN: Zika and maternal health

Microcephaly is a word most of us up until a few weeks ago had never heard of before. A seemingly uncommon and rare condition caused by the Zika virus has created a panic in the Americas, especially for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Teen pageant calls for contestants with beauty and brains

THE MISS Teen Bahamas International organisation is looking for the next young beauty queen to wear its crown and represent the country on the world stage.

Chocolate bliss for your hands and feet

LAST week, we told you all about the benefits of the chocolate facial. Today, we are highlighting another unique use for chocolate, namely in manicures and pedicures.

Letters to your ex

IF we can learn one thing from vocal powerhouse Adele it is that breakups can have long-lasting effects. The Grammy award-winning singer spun the hurt from her failed relationships into musical gold, but most of us don’t have that kind of outlet.

Planning a purpose-filled year

BAHAMIAN businesswoman Sharell Carroll has created a special planner which she says will help women prioritise their lives and accomplish their goals this year.

Closing the gap: Female students making waves in technical education

Kelliah Kelly was intimidated the first day she stepped into an auto mechanics class at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institution (BTVI). She was surrounded by a group of males who wondered whether she was lost. Today, she is one of the top students and has fully embraced her passion for fixing vehicles.

POLITICOLE: Bahamians are slaves to the master of tourism

WE are a servant society. Our primary reliance on tourism has led us to this place today. This is not a smear campaign against tourism, lest the tourism officials’ knickers become knotted.

NHI to fail

THE decision of the government to push ahead with NHI is not surprising. They have a firmly established reputation of making poor and expensive decisions on behalf of the people they were elected to serve.

Fiddling while Nassau burns

Re: Nottage Preparing To Make Music Not War.

Mule vs the Horse

Thank you for the opportunity to address the current leader of the FNM who was on ZNS with Darold Miller today (Monday).

In support of MP Lightbourn

I am writing in reference to the headline implying that Mr Richard Lightbourn, MP is a racist.

Govt to revise NHI scheme after doctor alarm

THE government is set to make numerous revisions to its National Health Insurance scheme after doctors expressed concerns about it last month, The Tribune understands.

FNM Deputy: New Carnival, but same mistakes as last year

FNM DEPUTY Leader Peter Turnquest yesterday said it seems the government and the Bahamas National Festival Commission “have not learned anything” from the failure of last year’s Junkanoo Carnival and are “back to making the same mistakes.”

BEC general manager leaves role, becomes advisor

WITH PowerSecure now in full control of the operations of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation, sweeping changes have been implemented at the executive level with former BEC General Manager Kevin Basden now assuming a new role as consultant/advisor to Bahamas Power & Light (BPL), The Tribune understands.

Jobs may go after BEC deal

A TOP executive of PowerSecure, the American firm contracted to manage the Bahamas Electricity Corporation, said there could “potentially be a reduction” in workforce in the coming months as officials seek to reorganise staff under the operations of the new Bahamas Power & Light Company Ltd (BPL).

SPORTING MISCHIEF & MAYHEM: A day of sporting blessings for a proud Papa

Today is a truly a very special one - it’s my youngest son Andoni’s birthday!

SAC seek vengeance in BAISS championships

THE Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools Sports’ (BAISS) Track and Field Championships, which surpassed the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ (BAAA) National Championships in terms of the drama and suspense last year, is back this week at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium and the expectations are just as high this time.

Three champions back for GSSSA championships

THREE of the four champions are back to defend their titles as the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association’s (GSSSA)

Latest Bahamian talent holds court at Holland College

HOLLAND College has been a pipeline through which Bahamian talent can access higher education in recent years via a number of sports including football, volleyball, soccer and basketball.

Magnum Rolle helps Wyverns roar in Japan

AFTER joining his new club near the mid-season mark, Magnum Rolle has paid immediate dividends for the Passlab Yamagata Wyverns in Japan’s National Basketball Development League.

Bahamians sign on the dotted line for college football careers

NATIONAL Signing Day is a major milestone in the collegiate careers of student athletes across the United States, and this year, also for a pair of Bahamian aspiring gridiron stars.

Ray Minus Jr pays tribute to Lennox Boyce

OVER the past few decades, Ray Minus Jr has trained some of the top amateur Bahamian boxers who have gone on to excel at the national and international level, including Meacher ‘Pain’ Major and Jermaine ‘Choo Choo’ Mackey, and become household names in the professional ranks.

Capturing the Blue and Beyond

ALESSANDRO Sarno, an Italian with a passion for travel and, now, for photography, first came to the Bahamas in 2008 and has been coming back every year since.

Man accused of sex attack on tourist

A MAN was arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday afternoon in connection with a complaint filed by an American tourist who alleged that she was sexually assaulted by an acquaintance.

Man accused of gunpoint robbery is denied bail

A MAN was remanded to prison without bail yesterday after being charged in connection with the recent gunpoint robbery of a convenience store.

47 Haitians detained near Hog Cay

THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force apprehended a group of 47 Haitians near Hog Cay, Ragged Island on Sunday night.

Five to be charged after Bimini murder

POLICE are expected to formally charge several persons in connection with the murder of a man last week in Bimini, a senior police official said in Grand Bahama on the weekend.

Bruno Rufa files defamation claim over online petition

CANADIAN resident Bruno Rufa has filed a defamation lawsuit in the Supreme Court concerning allegations published by a Bahamian in an online petition early last year.

Injunction is lifted over remains of former senator

A LEGAL dispute over the remains of a former politician was heard in the Supreme Court yesterday afternoon.

Minister calls for ‘all hands on deck’ over job outsource

A Cabinet minister yesterday warned that “all hands on deck” were required to prevent the further outsourcing of financial services jobs, with this nation needing to improve operating efficiencies and how business is conducted.

Chamber chief’s two-year target for energy ‘norm’

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s (BCCEC) chairman yesterday gave the ‘new BEC’s’ manager two years to lower energy costs to “a consistent norm”.

Financial regulatory regime gains pre-inspection boost

The Bahamas’ financial services regulatory regime had largely addressed all previously-identified deficiencies just before international watchdogs subjected it to its latest anti-money laundering assessment in late 2015.

Bank ‘totally discredits’ PM’s Baha Mar optimism

Baha Mar’s financier has “totally discredited” the Prime Minster’s statements insisting that a resolution for the $3.5 billion project is imminent, the Opposition’s deputy leader is arguing.

Fiscal numbers alone won’t halt downgrade

The Government must “sell our story” correctly to avoid the Bahamas being downgraded to ‘junk’ status, the Chamber’s chairman warning yesterday that the fiscal numbers were not enough to prevent this by themselves.

Urban Games seeks to uplift the nation’s youth

THE Urban Renewal Commission yesterday announced the launch of its first annual “Urban Games” track and field meet that is set to take place this Saturday at the Thomas A Robinson Stadium.

Urban Renewal waits for PAC before pursuing contractors

THE Urban Renewal Commission is awaiting the conclusion of the Public Accounts Committee’s probe into its Small Homes Repair programme before fully pursuing the contractors who were allegedly paid to repair homes but did not undertake or complete their duties, Urban Renewal Co-Chair Algernon Allen said yesterday.

‘New BEC’s’ solar Out Island focus

The Bahamas Electricity Corporation’s (BEC) new manager yesterday promised that solar energy would be integrated into its generation solutions, with the Family Islands likely to prove especially fertile ground.

New BEC manager eyes cleaner fuel

The ‘new BEC’s’ manager yesterday reassured that its business plan has an environmental focus, with plans to use cleaner fuel sources to generate Bahamian energy.

Seven men accused of raping woman

A BIMINI woman who alleges that she was gang raped two years ago testified that she remembered waking up after the alleged attack without her tights or underwear.

INSIGHT: Haiti takes a step towards democratic elections

President Michel Martelly made his farewell speech to Haiti as he departed office yesterday with no successor yet chosen because a runoff election was scrapped last month amid violent protests and deep suspicions about vote rigging.

We should all play a part in protecting oceans

JOSEPH Ierna Jr believes protecting oceanic resources should be a high priority for everyone, everywhere.

INSIGHT: Pitch Battle - Bahamas soccer losing sight of the goal

The Bahamas Football Association (BFA) continues to collapse.

The voice of Bahamians

Truly I am amazed at a very significant issue that transpired in the Holy Bible. It involves the last days of Jesus Christ on earth.

Gone fishin’

The Bahamian people have misinterpreted the generosity of the Chinese munitions factories, and all one hears today is “what is the defence force going to do with all of those grenades” ?

The row within the FNM

It both surprises and amuses me to some degree that Senator Lanisha Rolle, Maurice Moore and others feel that they can threaten, bully, berate and intimidate FNMs into supporting Dr Hubert Minnis. So…ok…this might succeed to some extent with elected party officers, Members of Parliament and candidates from whom the party is in a position to withhold nominations, appointments and the like.

The daily struggle facing unemployed Bahamians

FOR the past two years, Celeste Neymour has been looking for work, desperate to secure employment so that she can provide for her two young daughters.

Govt to reconsider one aspect of NHI scheme

THE Christie administration has agreed to reconsider its position on patient-centred medical homes, a leading physician said yesterday, noting that the matter has been a significant point of contention for doctors negotiating with the government on its proposed National Health Insurance scheme.

$4.5m cocaine haul seized

A MAJOR drug seizure of some $4.5m worth of cocaine was made at the Freeport Container Port yesterday, police said.

Carnival sets may date for Nassau

THE second Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival will take place on May 5-7 in New Providence, with a kick-off event from April 15-16 in Grand Bahama, the Bahamas National Festival Commission announced last night.

UPDATED: FATHER OF TWO IS SHOT DEAD AFTER ARGUMENT

POLICE are investigating the death of a 31-year-old father of two who was killed at Irish Springs Close off John Chipman Street on Saturday.

Lightbourn told of criticism at FNM meeting

MONTAGU MP Richard Lightbourn said he was accused of being “racist” during a Free National Movement policy meeting, admitting to The Tribune yesterday that he is concerned efforts are underway in the party to define him as such because of his criticism of FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis.

Police search still goes on for murderer

A WANTED fugitive due to be sentenced for murder remains at large nearly a week after he escaped from a police bus en route to prison.

NPWBA: Wins for Athletico Bahamas, Cheetahs and Operators

THE New Providence Women’s Basketball Association kicked off its junior division as they continued their regular season action at the DW Davis Gymnasium on Saturday.

CLARIFICATION: Junkanoo nymphe

WE have been asked to make clear that the Junkanoo Nymphe costume, which was featured in the Tough Call column on February 3 about acclaimed Bahamian body-painting artist Monty Knowles, was a collaborative creative effort by a team led by Elizabeth P Clarke.

AML receives 7% Xmas sales boost

AML Foods says its January sales numbers “are looking quite strong” after a Christmas season in which its top-line was up 7 per cent year-over-year.

PM urged: ‘Keep up pressure’ on Baha Mar’s lender

A former Baha Mar director has urged Prime Minister Perry Christie to keep the pressure up on the $3.5 billion project’s lender, as he argued: “The Government backed the wrong horse.”

‘Pie in the sky’: Gov’t slammed on Freeport regulation claw back

Calls for the Government to reclaim regulatory authority over Freeport have been branded “a pie in the sky idea”, given the existing legal barriers to such a move.

‘Privacy invasion’ fear on NHI Bill

The draft National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill has been slammed for providing the Government with “sweeping invasion of privacy powers” that threaten the confidentiality of doctors’ patient records.

‘Extraordinary’: Concern over $400k Sir Jack overdraft rise

The Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) audit chief has demanded an explanation for how the overdrawn balance on the late Sir Jack Hayward’s shareholder loan account ballooned by an “extraordinary” $400,000.

Rescued: Baby manatee saved by researchers

RESEARCHERS turned rescuers when a baby manatee had to be untangled from fishing line in Spanish Wells, Eleuthera.

With new starter gun, track meet finishes before sunset

BENEFITTING from the new electronic starter’s gun that was donated to the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials by their sponsor JR McDonald, the Star Trackers’ 2016 Star Performers Track Classic broke new grounds on Saturday as the one-day meet finished before sunset - the first thing done at a local track and field meet.

Denver D dominates Panthers in 24-10 victory

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — If this was the final game of his magnificent career, what a Super way to go out for Peyton Manning.

Scottsdale Vixens win NPVA title

WHILE the New Providence Volleyball Association ladies’ champions were decided on Friday night at the DW Davis Gymnasium, the men have been extended to Wednesday night.

Rattlers to face Mystic Marlins in GSSSA basketball championships

AFTER a pair of thrilling finishes in the sudden death semi-final rounds, the highly anticipated Government Secondary Schools Sports Association senior boys’ basketball championship series is all set.

Next round of NHI public meetings announced

THE National Health Insurance Secretariat will meet with members of the Bahamas Insurance Association and the Christian Council this week as it ramps up pubic meetings.

Ministry of Tourism gives support to visitors on Zika

AS concerns mount over the explosive spread of the Zika virus in the region and the potential impact on the local populace and tourism industry, Ministry of Tourism officials have assured the public that they are being proactive.

Cybots knock off Rebels 84-73, Rockets rout Stingers 87-74

THE Mail Boat Cybots and Pyramid Food Rockets pulled off victories in the New Providence Basketball Association’s double header at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Saturday night.

Nine pistols and 1,100 rounds of ammunition seized by Grand Bahama police

A LARGE cache of firearms and ammunition has been seized in Freeport by Grand Bahama police, who have three men in custody for questioning.

Man shot and seriously wounded in Eight Mile Rock

A MAN is in hospital in Grand Bahama after being shot several times and seriously wounded on Friday night in Eight Mile Rock.

Strong winds reportedly prevent Bahamasair flight from landing in Grand Bahama

A Bahamasair flight was reportedly unable to land at the Grand Bahama International Airport early on Friday morning due to strong winds associated with a cold front that moved into the area.

Bran compares PLP's 'abuse' of Bahamians to 'a battered wife'

BRANVILLE McCartney has called on Bahamians to "do the right thing" and vote the Christie administration out of office as he compared the PLP's "abuse" of the Bahamian people during its current term in office to that of a "battered wife".

Security officer shot in attempted robbery at Abaco resort

A SECURITY officer at a resort in Abaco was shot during an attempted armed robbery on Thursday evening, police reported.

UPDATED: Man shot dead on Mount Royal Avenue

POLICE are investigating the murder of a young forklift operator at Mount Royal Avenue early on Friday morning.

Artisans get international exposure as handicrafts exported to Germany

MORE than $70,000 worth of Bahamian handicrafts were exported to Germany providing international exposure for talented Bahamian artisans, it was revealed this week.

DNA Deputy slams FNM for 'infighting'

THE Deputy Leader of the Democaratic National Alliance (DNA) slammed the Free National Movement (FNM) on Friday for its recent "infighting," calling the party a group of "hapless, unsupervised toddlers who seem to have no care for what is happening in this country".

Three plead not guilty to $24,000 worth of food

THREE men were granted $5,000 bail in Magistrates Court on Friday after pleading not guilty to theft of more than $24,000 worth of food from a major distribution company.

A COMIC'S VIEW: Drumming up grenades and a side order of music

As a young boy growing up in Nassau, I once saw a fight between police officers and a very intoxicated street corner philosopher whose fondness for foreign poultry earned him the nickname ‘American Chicken’.

Mitchell’s tactics

I see now that Fred Mitchell is trying to intimidate into silence anyone who opposes his random behaviour or questions his wild ego.

No confidence over election?

Tall Pines MP Leslie Miller’s suggestion that Prime Minister Perry Christie should call a snap election in either June or July lends the impression that he isn’t confident at all that the PLP can take on an invigorated, cohesive FNM.

Drone regulations

I read that this am and noted that it does not say “drones” as we have come to use the term for multi-propeller radio controlled aerial photography devices/platforms, but rather “unmanned and remotely piloted aircraft” which would include ALL radio controlled airplanes, helicopters and drones...and debatably even kites which are be controlled...hmmm...kite sailing too?

BTC’s 4G data is garbage

I recently purchased a new smartphone from an electronics store in the Mall, which I needed for the convenience of doing business in this modern age; and already, I’m beginning to regret that decision.

Nottage hopes for parole legislation before end of year

NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage hopes the government can produce draft legislation before the end of the year that would ultimately make hundreds of incarcerated people eligible for parole.

Cabinet to review Intelligence Agency legislation next week

NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage said Cabinet is expected to review the long-awaited National Intelligence Agency legislation next week.

‘No concern’ over deadlock at Baha Mar for conference

LOCAL officials preparing for an upcoming Inter-American Development Bank conference at Baha Mar said they have no concerns about the resort’s ongoing deadlock overshadowing the $6m event which will see 5,000 international delegates enter the country.

VIDEO: Super Value robbed again by armed raiders

POLICE are aggressively pursuing two armed men who robbed Super Value's Portion Control on Robinson Road on Thursday evening.

BIA ready to deal with govt on NHI - but no meeting since December

BAHAMAS Insurance Association Chairman Emmanuel Komolafe yesterday suggested that the group is willing to “compromise” on its stance regarding the administration of National Health Insurance, adding that the insurers are not an “enemy”.

Man jailed for four years for housebreaking

A MAN will serve four years in prison after he pleaded guilty to 11 counts of housebreaking in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

Attorney General’s office under fire over bail in Sewell case

THE Office of the Attorney General came under fire from a magistrate yesterday during a bail hearing when officials sought to argue that a man recently charged with sexual assault should not be granted bail as he had previously been charged with similar crimes.

Don’t litter because . . . Das Nasty

THE voice that became the conscience of the country in songs with catchy lines and upbeat rhythm delivering serious messages has hit the airwaves and Youtube again, this time urging people to stop littering and start respecting the beauty of The Bahamas.

VAT revenues hit $271m for first 5 months

The $271.1 million in gross Value-Added Tax (VAT) revenues collected during the first five months of the Government’s 2015-2016 fiscal year slashed its fiscal deficit by almost 50 per cent to $134.1 million.

Bank outsourcing: Middle class on ‘unstable footing’

The continued outsourcing of financial services jobs is placing the Bahamian middle class “on a very unstable footing”, the Opposition’s labour spokesman saying yesterday: “I don’t know how we’re going to arrest this.”

New NHI consultant is ‘last chance’ for Gov’t

Doctors believe the Government’s hiring of a world-renowned KPMG executive is the last chance to demonstrate it is serious about “meaningful consultation” over National Health Insurance (NHI), amid concerns his report will simply be ignored if the findings are unfavourable.

Baha Mar financier confirms Bahamian creditor slippage

Baha Mar’s financier yesterday admitted Bahamians had been pushed further down the ‘creditors queue’ by the receivers’ financing requirements, as it slammed “entirely unfounded” suggestions that it was responsible for the project’s demise.

Over $62m owed in casino taxes

Existing casino operators owed the Government nearly $11 million in outstanding taxes at the 2013-2014 fiscal year’s end, while the former Crystal Palace owner’s bill had been under-valued by more than $2 million.

New starter gun for BACO

IN their effort to help improve the level of officiating in the Bahamas, the Star Trackers and its sponsors Baker Concrete and Greyco Limited have made a major donation of an electronic starter gun to the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials.

Music emergency? call the Jambulance

THERE’S a new sound about to hit the streets of the capital complete with EMS personnel - here comes the siren and flashing lights of the ‘Jambulance’ and its Emergency Musical Services.

Sports Notes

THE New Providence Volleyball Association’s best-of-five championship series continued Wednesday night at the DW Davis Gymnasium with the Scottsdale Vixens and National Fence Intruders moving into the driver’s seat. They both can wrap up the ladies’ and men’s titles when the series continues tonight.

Bahamas Fed Cup team suffers 3-0 loss to host Puerto Rico

THE Bahamas’ Fed Cup team lost its third game at the Americas Group II competition at the Centro De Tenis Honda in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, yesterday. The Bahamas suffered a 3-0 loss to the host Puerto Rican team.

NPBA: Cybots holf off Caribs 84-81, Athletico tops the Legends 104-95

THE New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) continued its regular season at the AF Adderley Gym Wednesday night. The Mail Boat Cybots and Athletico Bahamas earned wins in the double header.

THE FINISH LINE: Georgette put up a gallant effort against the world’s best golfers

WE have reached the end of the first month of 2016 and with it came the hosting of the fourth annual Pure Silk Bahamas LPGA Classic.

New BACO president says training ‘has been our challenge’

A LOT of the success of a local track and field meet hinges on the performances of the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials.

Jeffery Gibson in town for Star Performers Track Classic

While he is not expected to make his 2016 debut until he returns home for the 2nd Chris Brown Bahamas Invitational in April, 400 metre hurdles national record holder Jeffery Gibson is home as a special guest for the 13th Star Performers Track Classic at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium this weekend.

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES 02052015

Bahamas Press Club. - President of the Bahamas Press Club 2014, Anthony A Newbold, addressed the Rotary Club of South East Nassau weekly luncheon meeting on the role of the Press.

Farewell to a senator - and a dear friend

Dion Foulkes pays tribute to his late friend and former senator, Edwin ‘Wykee’ Brown, whose state recognised funeral takes place today at Bethel Baptist Church, Meeting Street, at 11am.

Heart Association to hold Freeport fundraiser

WITH heart disease one of the leading causes of death in The Bahamas and worldwide, The Grand Bahama Heart Association is raising awareness by hosting a major fundraising event in Freeport this month.

Small crowd for NHI meeting at short notice

THE first of a series of National Health Insurance town meetings in Grand Bahama was held in Freeport on Wednesday evening, however the lack of sufficient public notice resulted in a small turnout of residents at the Bahamas Union of Teachers Hall.

Three men, one woman arrested over string of robberies

POLICE arrested three men and one woman Wednesday night who they suspect of being responsible for a string of recent robberies in the capital.

Officer who helped detain triple murder suspect testifies

A JURY heard testimony yesterday from a police officer who was a part of a special operation instrumental in the arrest of a suspect wanted for questioning in a triple murder.

IAN FERGUSON: How firms can give a great reception

People often say that first impressions are lasting impressions. Research further indicates that people know whether or not they want to do business with you within the first seven seconds of engagement. Think about how many stores you walked out of because of the first ‘vibe’ you felt, either from the employees or the facilities.

Insurance chairman backs CLICO probe

The Bahamas Insurance Association’s (BIA) chairman yesterday backed a public inquiry into CLICO (Bahamas) collapse, adding that the new regulatory framework for the sector is “quite robust”.

Integrate insurance reform into change

Insurance reform must be part of this nation’s wider healthcare initiatives, the Bahamas Insurance Association’s (BIA) chairman said yesterday.

20 arrested as hunt for escaped murderer goes on

POLICE arrested nearly 20 people between Wednesday and Thursday for “assisting and providing shelter” for convicted murderer Ormand Leon, according to Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Leon Bethel.

A YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: Signing away The Bahamas

WITH the government signing yet another Heads of Agreement (HOA) on Monday, it appears that Prime Minister Perry Christie has returned to his old ways.

OPINION: Why cancer treatment is better in The Bahamas

Bahamians should not think travelling abroad for cancer treatment is necessarily the best plan. Dr Tom McGowan explains why . . .

MP was invited by Governor General

The February 3 edition of The Tribune carried a Letter to the Editor from Margaret Humes which essentially questions the composition of the delegation that travelled with Her Excellency the Governor General to various Family Islands devastated by Hurricane Joaquin.

Reforming male identity in our culture

“You like man.” It’s a phrase we heard in recent years, and it has become a cliché in everyone’s minds to revile men who are “soft”.

Truth, facts and interpretation

There are a lot of quotes about the truth. And like any good quote they are immediately applicable to our society.

Why must Bahamas have a military arsenal?

WHILE Democrat Bernie Sanders, in answer to a question last night as to what, if he became president of the United States, he would do to help improve relations between urban communities and their police forces, replied that he would demilitarise the police force, and make it look less like an invading army.

Police still in the dark on NHI

DESPITE assurances from the government, the Police Staff Association continues to be concerned about the future of the health insurance scheme for police officers, fearing that it will be diminished as National Health Insurance comes on stream.

‘What are you going to do with the grenades?’

FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest accused the Christie administration of “preparing for something” as he called on Bahamians to be “vigilant” and “concerned” over the People’s Republic of China’s recent gift to the country of military equipment and musical instruments worth $1.2m.

Approval is given to new manager of BEC

DEPUTY Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday announced that PowerSecure has received approval from the government to officially assume management control of Bahamas Power and Light, which now operates as the Bahamas Electrical Corporation.

Seven years in jail for rape and armed robbery

A MAN who made a plea deal with Crown prosecutors in separate rape and armed robbery cases was sentenced to seven years in prison yesterday.

Murdered man’s body found in Bimini

THE partially decomposed body of a man was discovered in bushes in Bimini early yesterday morning.

Auditor warns of ‘breeding ground of improprieties’

THE Auditor General has warned of an “alarming amount of alleged theft” at the Post Office, with at least one of its practices branded “a breeding ground for improprieties”.

After day off, Fed Cup team returns to action today at Americas Group II Tie

AFTER having a day off, the Bahamas Fed Cup is expected to return to action today at the Americas Group II Tie at the Centro De Tenis Honda in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.

13th Star Performers Track Classic all set for this weekend

THE Star Trackers Track and Field Club is all set to host the Baker Concrete/Greyco Limited 13th Star Performers Track Classic 2016 in the Thomas A Robinson Track & Field Stadium at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre on Saturday.

SPORTS NOTES

PHILIP Major, playing in his second consecutive F5 Futures in Turkey, got eliminated in the first round of the men’s singles yesterday.

Hunt for missing 17-year-old girl

POLICE are seeking the public’s help in locating 17–year-old Kevanna Mia Patterson of Claridge Road who was recently reported missing by family members.

Police seek armed robbery suspects

POLICE are looking for the suspects behind two armed robberies that occurred on Tuesday.

Five Cuban migrants held

FIVE Cuban migrants were discovered on Anguilla Cay by US Coast Guard officials early this week and taken to Grand Bahama on Wednesday morning.

Sentencing delayed over man’s killing of five-year-old brother

SENTENCING of a schizophrenic man who fatally stabbed his five-year-old brother has been delayed by two weeks.

Jury sees pictures of triple killing crime scene

A SUPREME Court jury yesterday was shown nearly five dozen images illustrating the aftermath of a shooting at a home that claimed three lives, including that of a pregnant woman who was shot in the head.

Not a happy family

Re: Minnis: Keep It In The Family. The Tribune, January 27, 2016

Did granting bail cause more murders?

There is basic evidence in the number of cases where persons on bail killed people on bail.

Unions ‘with programme’ on BEC manager

The Bahamas Electricity Corporation’s (BEC) trade unions yesterday promised they were “with the programme”, as the Deputy Prime Minister confirmed that the Government had given its approval for the signing of a five-year management contract with PowerSecure.

Gov’t seeks GBPA stake in tax break ‘trade off’

A 20-year extension of Freeport’s expiring investment incentives should only be granted if the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) owners both agree to sell and give the Government an equity stake in the company, the latter’s advisers have recommended.

‘Wonderful compromise’ over Business Licences

The Government’s decision to push the Business Licence return filing deadline back two months was yesterday hailed as “a wonderful compromise” that will relieve the stress on both the private sector and accountants, some of whom complained about “busting my behind” to hit January 31.

Post Office a ‘breeding ground for impropriety’

The Auditor General has warned of an “alarming amount of alleged theft” at the Post Office, with at least one of its practices branded “a breeding ground for improprieties”.

$10m penalties in Bill for damage in oil exploration

THE Petroleum Bill 2014 seeks to enforce penalties of up to $10m for damage to this country’s environment during oil exploration should they occur, Attorney General Allyson Maynard-Gibson said in the Senate yesterday,

Training venue change paying big dividends for ‘Q’ Ferguson

A change in training venue from the United States to the Caribbean is certainly starting to pay off big dividends for sprinter Sheniqua ‘Q’ Ferguson.

Griffith, Mathieu all set for IAAF World Indoors next month

SPRINTER Adrian Griffith and quarter-miler Michael Mathieu, now training partners in Orlando, Florida, have booked their ticket to the IAAF World Indoor Championships next month in Portland, Oregon.

TRIKE-A-THON BAHAMAS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE ST JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL

THE Sandals Foundation sponsored St Jude Trike-a-thon is set to roll out this Friday with children of all ages biking, triking and scootering for a good cause.

No final decision yet on penalty for not signing up to NHI

CHIEF Medical Officer Dr Glen Beneby yesterday said no “final” decision has been made on whether the government will penalise those who do not to enrol for National Health Insurance, but stressed that officials are discussing ways by which to “encourage persons to comply” instead of creating a penalty.

Strachan family, Mt Ararat Baptist among winners of Family Fun Run/Walk Race

THE Strachan family and Mt Ararat Baptist Church were among the big winners of the Baptist Sports Council’s 2016 AID Family Fun Run/Walk Race at Charles W Saunders High School on Saturday.

21-day permit, approval time urged for Freeport

The Government has been urged to improve Freeport’s competitiveness and ‘ease of doing business’ by introducing 21-day turnaround timelines for work permits and all business-related approvals.

Opposition deputy: Give Sarkis first opportunity

The Opposition’s deputy leader yesterday said Baha Mar’s original developer, Sarkis Izmirlian, should be given the first chance to revive the $3.5 billion project if he has a workable plan.

ART OF GRAPHIX: Font choices can be heavy lifting

Imagine hauling around heavy boxes of metal type, a different set for every typeface, and having to assemble your text letter in order to design a document. That seems a world away from our point-and-click, instant world of digital design.

THE BIG QUESTION: What would YOU do to improve Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival in 2016?

What would YOU do to improve Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival in 2016?

MASSIVE MANHUNT CONTINUES

AS a massive manhunt continues for convicted murderer Ormand Leon, police have launched an internal investigation into how he escaped from a police bus.

Living with interstitial lung disease

When she was first diagnosed with interstitial lung disease in 2011, Glendamae Black said the condition became the focal point of her life, affecting her in every way possible.

Don’t be so sensitive!

If eating a frozen daiquiri or snow cone makes you say “ouch”, then you may be suffering from tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common complaints among patients. They can no longer enjoy cold or hot beverages without feeling some sort of discomfort.

Cancer Fighters programme to be developed in the Bahamas

REPRESENTATIVES of the Cancer Treatment Centres of America (CTCA) are gearing up to officially launch their Cancer Fighters programme here in the Bahamas to help those living with the disease to “nurture, engage and empower one another”. Cancer Fighters is about patients and caregivers connecting with each other.

TOUGH CALL: A true Bahamian body of art

Did you know humans can levitate?

BAHAMIAN DOCTORS: Who do you trust on NHI - the doctors or the govt?

A group of Bahamian doctors has written to The Tribune to express their deep concerns and expert medical views over the government’s proposed National Health Insurance scheme.

Brazilians and Haitians fail in bid to enter US from Bahamas

NEARLY a dozen Brazilian immigrants were discovered at a local resort in Freeport, and 27 illegal Haitians were brought back to Grand Bahama after a failed smuggling attempt into the United States early this week.

MINNIS TELLS SUPPORTERS: DON’T LOSE FOCUS

FREE National Movement leader Dr Hubert Minnis told supporters last night that at a time when it is easy to get distracted in the “silliness”, “constant bickering and petty airing of our dirty laundry”, FNMs must not lose focus of the real issues now facing the country.

FNM ‘outraged’ over ‘false’ report that Dr Minnis attempted to expel four MPs

FREE National Movement Chairman Michael Pintard yesterday said the party is “outraged” at the “false assertion” that party Leader Dr Hubert Minnis attempted to expel four FNM parliamentarians at an emergency executive meeting on Monday night.

Union president slams NIB over mould infestation

BAHAMAS Public Service Union President John Pinder yesterday blamed the National Insurance Board for the “terrible” mould infestation and “deterioration” at the Department of Public Service, which he said was caused by “shabby work” by NIB’s private contractors.

Mall at Marathon begins the next phase of makeover

THE Mall at Marathon yesterday announced plans to renovate and remodel the mall’s main entrance and corresponding corridor, the next phase in its multi-million dollar enhancement project.

Jury to return to Supreme Court for triple murder trial

A JURY returns to the Supreme Court today for the expected start of a trial for two men accused of committing a triple murder in which one of their alleged victims was pregnant.

Greg Moss: NHI charging Bahamians a second time for public health care

MARCO City MP Gregory Moss adamantly opposes National Health Insurance, which he says is really about charging Bahamians a second time for access to public health care that they are already paying for now through taxes paid to the government.

Police hunt murderer who escaped custody

AN ISLAND wide-manhunt was underway yesterday afternoon for a convicted murderer who escaped from custody on his way to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

Filipino dies after electrocution on board ship

POLICE in Grand Bahama are investigating the death of a Philippines crew member who was reported to have been electrocuted on board a foreign vessel on Tuesday morning.

Gov’t faces ‘pre emptive strike’ over Freeport

The Government’s plans for Freeport were yesterday hit by “a pre-emptive strike”, with an outspoken QC now seeking Supreme Court declarations that its Business Licence regime and associated fees do not apply in the city until 2054.

BMC Dri Tri earnings will be donated to Dr Meyer Rassin Scholarship Foundation

TWO regulars on the local triathlon and international ironman scene made it to the top of the leaderboard in the first BMC Dri Tri on Saturday.

Federation all set to host the AGM of Caribbean Basketball Confederation

THE Bahamas Basketball Federation and its partners are all geared up to host the Annual General meeting of the Caribbean Basketball Confederation at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island this weekend.

Strikers Boxing Club members off to training camp in Cuba

BACK from a highly successful four-day training camp last week in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Strikers Boxing Club’s seven elite boxers and two coaches are off again.

Veteran forward Bennet Davis 2nd leading scorer in France

CONSTANTLY on the move, the latest stop on Bennet Davis’ pro basketball venture sees him continue his career in France for the second consecutive season

Sponge revival in 17% sales growth

Bahamian spongers will enjoy an average annual sales growth of 17 per cent by the time a three-year project to revitalise the industry concludes, an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report has revealed.

‘Shaq’ and ‘Chicken’ in NCAA spotlight

IT was “Texas-sized” night of upsets Tuesday night, involving a pair of Bahamian players at the NCAA Division I level with some of the top programmes in the state.

‘A superstar in the making’

One of the most sought after high school basketball recruits of the past decade, Bahamian standout DeAndre Ayton reminded scouts, coaches and the media of goals as his highly anticipated recruitment gains momentum.

RBC outsourcing more jobs to Trini

Commercial banking industry consolidation and job losses are set to continue, after Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) yesterday unveiled plans to transfer its credit card unit to Trinidad & Tobago.

Chamber awaiting Business Licence ‘pressure relief’

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) yesterday said it was optimistic that the Government will shortly announce changes to its Business Licence processes and “relieve the pressure” many companies have faced.

Scotia loses battle over $100k ‘fraud claim’ funds

Scotiabank (Bahamas) has been ordered to pay a former expatriate worker interest on $100,000 worth of bank drafts, following a 17-year saga that involved fraud allegations and a police complaint.

Man shot dead in South Beach

A MAN shot in South Beach late last night died in hospital of his injuries a short while later, police reported.

SkyBahamas passenger feared ‘we were going down’

TIM Aylen said he was overcome with fear that “we were going down” after he witnessed a propeller of a small SkyBahamas Airlines flight stop as oil dripped from it minutes after the plane left Nassau headed to Freeport, Grand Bahama.

VIDEO: Tourists ‘leave Straw Market in droves’ after row between compliance officers, police, vendors

SCORES of tourists reportedly left the Nassau Straw Market in droves yesterday after chaos erupted when police and Straw Market Authority compliance officers flooded the cultural centre over issues involving vendors, The Tribune was told.

Exuma Chamber chief wants ‘real FDI partnerships’

Foreign direct investment (FDI) project must go beyond job creation to provide meaningful partnerships with the local community for true economic empowerment, the Exuma Chamber of Commerce president yesterday arguing that this

Joaquin drives ‘below average’ crawfish yield

The Bahamas Commercial Fishers Alliance’s president (BCFA) said yesterday that the 2015-2016 crawfish season is expected to have a below average yield, due largely to the devastation caused by Hurricane Joaquin to 20 per cent of the fishing fleet.

A DOZEN KEY AREAS TO BE FOGGED TO STOP SPREAD OF ZIKA VIRUS

THE Department of Environmental Health Services (DEHS) plans to fog a dozen key areas in New Providence known for the proliferation of mosquitos and mosquito-borne illnesses to prevent the spread of the Zika virus, Director of Environmental Health Melanie McKenzie said yesterday.

UPDATED: Minnis tries to throw out MPs

AT an emergency executive meeting, called at FNM headquarters last night, committee members dissuaded party leader Dr Hubert Minnis from expelling four FNM parliamentarians for demanding a public apology from Senator Lanisha Rolle, who had publicly criticised them in a call-in radio talk show two weeks ago.

Blackness and the unbeauty

We often talk about beauty as if it were an unnatural thing that has a particular commercial value. We tend to measure women against this unnatural, commercially-valued beauty. If they do not measure up, as no woman can naturally, according to the media, then she is an unbeautiful and socially unacceptable, especially among the youth who wear this badge as if it were their life.

BUN IN THE OVEN: Five things to make your kids feel special

It’s hard to keep things going in a world that moves at the speed of light. Being a working mom, a single mom, any mom, is challenging.

Sensually yours

GOING on dates as a married couple can play a major part in keeping the spark alive. And even with the hustle and bustle of daily life, couples are encouraged by marriage counsellors to set some time aside to enjoy each other’s company and have fun together.

Sweet facials for radiant skin

BELIEVE it or not, there is a way to enjoy chocolate without worrying about a single calorie. And more than that, you can actually use chocolate to fight issues like aging, dehydration, and to maintain your skin’s radiance.

Women in agriculture – Part III

WHEN it comes to choosing a career, children often follow in their parents’ footsteps. Whether it is the lucrative nature of the craft or the passion displayed by mom and dad, the little ones see what drives their parents and yearn to experience the same. Such was the case for Marina Newton…eventually.

VIDEO: 'Strange' engine noises force return of SkyBahamas flight

A SMALL SkyBahamas Airlines flight with five passengers and three crewmembers was forced to return to the capital shortly after takeoff on Tuesday after pilots reported hearing “strange” noises coming from one of the plane’s engines.

Equality referendum is ‘likely’ before July

IT IS likely that the government will hold its severely stalled equality referendum within the first half of this year, according to National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday, as he stressed that the vote “is still very much on the books”.

Cease and desist

I am an FNM. I feel Loretta Butler-Turner and her band of Merry Men need to cease and desist with their foolish distractions.

POLITICOLE: Losing tolerance for what masquerades as leadership

WITH every news report I watch, listen to or read, the shorter my fuse becomes ... my fuse of tolerance, that is, for what masquerades in The Bahamas as leadership and governance.

Receivers are all that matter

“IZMIRLIAN seeks Baha Mar talks” by Ms Khrisna Virgil seems to miss that there is a court appointed receiver totally, 100 per cent in charge of Baha Mar.

A frightening prospect

Does China’s “gift” of military equipment and weaponry tie in with Prime Minister Christie’s warning that new crime strategies may impact freedom of movement?

Judges and the public interest

I welcome Justice Anita Allen’s response to those of us in the wider public and press who have grown increasingly impatient with perceived failures of the court, which we view as a significant causative factor in the crime wave we are witnessing.

Convicted murderer escapes from prison bus

A MAN convicted of murder and scheduled to return to Supreme Court for sentencing in two weeks escaped custody on Tuesday afternoon, The Tribune has learned.

Attorney General: Removing Privy Council a major task

ATTORNEY General Allyson Maynard-Gibson yesterday said while The Bahamas is “obliged” to enforce the death penalty in accordance to law, the removal of the London-based Privy Council would require “serious consideration” and “extensive consultation” with the Bahamian people.

Family prepare to sue over cremation of mother’s body

THE family of the late Lillian Theresa Gilbert has retained a lawyer to get answers from officials at the Rand Memorial Hospital as to how their mother’s body was released and mistakenly cremated at a local funeral home in Freeport.

PM surprised at Izmirlian bid to make contact

PRIME Minister Perry Christie said yesterday he was surprised to know Baha Mar developer Sarkis Izmirlian has been seeking to meet him concerning getting the $3.5 billion resort completed and opened.

Bank denies probe into delinquent ‘PLP loans’

THE BAHAMAS Development Bank yesterday denied assertions that the bank was overlooking “delinquent loans” by members of the Progressive Liberal Party and that politics plays a role in the day-to-day operations of the financial institution.

Nottage preparing to make music not war

ACTING Royal Bahamas Defence Force Commander Captain Tellis Bethel yesterday moved to allay concerns sparked by his organisation’s recent acquisition of military equipment from China, explaining that there was no need for public concern.

Programme Sure students given valuable advice from FNM Deputy Leader

THE students at Genesis Academy/Programme Sure received valuable advice and encouragement last week from Deputy Leader of the Free National Movement, Peter Turnquest, who told them about overcoming challenges when growing up to become successful, productive citizens.

Hard Rock, Resorts World eye GB casino

The Minister of Tourism yesterday expressed relief that top-tier brands were “finally” eyeing Freeport’s solitary casino, with both Hard Rock and Genting’s Resorts World format looking at taking over the property’s management.

Finding common ground in Chinese Spring Festival

THE PRESIDENT of the Bahamas China Friendship Association, Anthony Capron, compared the Chinese Spring Festival and The Bahamas’ Christmas Junkanoo season and found a common factor in that they bring families together.

Minister hails expansion at Deep Water Cay as ‘critical’

A $168m expansion of the Deep Water Cay resort has been approved by the government, Minister for Grand Bahama Dr Michael Darville has revealed, adding that there are other multi-million projects underway on the island.

FOI legislation reading ‘before this year’s budget debate’

THE FREEDOM of Information Act legislation will be available for a first reading in parliament before the 2016/2017 budget debate, Attorney General Allyson Maynard-Gibson said yesterday.

‘Mercy’ plea to judge for man who raped woman as her child watched

A JUDGE has been asked to balance justice with mercy for a 31-year-old man who dragged a woman out of her home at midnight to rob and rape her at knifepoint as her two-year-old child looked on.

Athletes qualify for the CARIFTA Games at Club Monica Athletics Track & Field Classic

CHARISMA Taylor, Megan Moss, Serena Brown, Edward Kemp, Kyle Alcine and Benjamin Clarke were among the list of athletes who surpassed the qualifying standards for the CARIFTA Games during the 13th annual Club Monica Athletics Track and Field Classic over the weekend.

MOT officials already planning for Bahamas LPGA 2017

MINISTRY of Tourism officials are already planning for an exciting Pure Silk Bahamas LPGA 2017 after history was made Sunday at the Ocean Club Golf Course.

Gov’t: Remobilisation ‘imminent’ at Baha Mar

The Government believes talks between Baha Mar’s Chinese stakeholders will lead to an “imminent remobilisation plan” and the project’s re-opening “in the shortest possible timeframe”.

GB airport value up six-fold via tourism rebound

A Grand Bahama “tourism turnaround” could produce a six-fold increase in the value of its international airport, which the Government’s consultants currently estimate is as low as $3 million.

Receivers ‘dual approach’ for Baha Mar resolution

Baha Mar’s Chinese lender and its receivers were yesterday said to be keeping all their options open, amid suggestions they have changed their strategy for resolving the $3.5 billion standstill.

DNA deputy leader criticises ‘hapless’ opposition

DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Deputy Leader Chris Mortimer yesterday criticised the official opposition, the Free National Movement, for “squabbling publicly like a group of unsupervised toddlers”.

Insurers criticise PM for turning to foreign experts

THE BAHAMAS Insurance Association yesterday criticised Prime Minister Perry Christie for opting to utilise a group of international healthcare experts over local professionals to examine his efforts on National Health Insurance.

Sporting Mischief and Mayhem: When sporting lives are tragically taken too young

THIS past week was definitely an emotional rollercoaster in sports, filled with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.

St Paul’s Baptist Church wins Bethel Baptist Youth Department basketball tournament

ST Paul’s Baptist held off neighbourhood rivals Macedonia Baptist to win the Bethel Baptist Association’s Youth Department initial basketball tournament that was played at Remnant Tabernacle.

Sports Notes

CHAMPION Amateur Boxing Club hosted its “Back on Track” amateur boxing show, sponsored by Limeade Bahamas, at the Wulff Road Boxing Square on Saturday night.

Fidelity Bank to offer free women’s seminar

The ‘Women Only’ seminar, designed to financially educate women and help them take advantage of opportunities, will be hosted by Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) this Saturday.

Live a Fulfilling Life: Taking a ‘time out’

For some of you, giving to everyone and everything else before yourself is a daily habit. Many times we find ourselves with health issues, stress imbalances or failing relationships and do not realise that a likely cause is that for too long you have attributed a disproportionate amount of time, attention and energy to ‘other things’.

Our very own MMA fighters are among the best in the Caribbean

MIXED Martial Arts in the Bahamas has increased its profile locally and now the region has begun to take notice.

‘More power’ to China if it finishes Baha Mar

A former Baha Mar director yesterday said financing the project’s full $600 million construction completion represents “an extremely risky strategy” for the China Export-Import Bank, but conceded: “More power to them if they do.”

BFA technical director resigns

A MAJOR executive post in the Bahamas Football Association is now vacant after the resignation of its techincal director.

Falcons flying high

It was another day of celebrations for the Jordan Prince Williams High School.

Lawyers file for mistrial of former Turks & Caicos Premier

LAWYERS for former Turks and Caicos Islands Premier Michael Misick will formally file for a mistrial in his high profile corruption case in Providenciales today, the Turks and Caicos Sun has reported.

BDB’s ‘bad borrower’ litigation rises 115%

The BAHAMAS Development Bank (BDB) has over the past three years more than doubled the volume of litigation launched against delinquent borrowers, its managing director yesterday emphasising there are “no sacred cows” among defaulters.

Exuma becoming high-end location

EXUMA is positioning itself as a “high net worth destination”, the Prime Minister said yesterday, as the Government signed a Heads of Agreement for a $200 million boutique resort on Children’s Bay Cay and Williams Cay.

WHO declares global emergency over spread of Zika virus

The World Health Organisation (WHO) yesterday declared a global emergency over the explosive spread of the Zika virus, which has been linked to birth defects in the Americas, calling it an “extraordinary event” that poses a public health threat to other parts of the world.

$200m deal signed with govt to bring five-star resort to Exuma

THE government signed heads of agreement yesterday with billionaire Swiss businesswoman Dona Bertarelli for the development of a $200m project on Children’s Bay Cay and Williams Cay, Exuma.

Govt admits its Baha Mar timetable ‘over-ambitious’

THE JUDGE presiding over the government’s winding-up petition of the stalled Baha Mar project was told yesterday that the initial two months granted to stakeholders to negotiate the property’s future was “over-ambitious” and unrealistic.

INSIGHT: The real reason behind the ‘greedy doctors’ barb - votes

Former MP Pierre Dupuch questions Shane Gibson’s reasoning regarding the proposed National Health Insurance plan.

INSIGHT: Roberts barks, but now there’s no bite

It was interesting - but not surprising - to see Bradley Roberts, the chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party, attacking the media last week.

WORLD VIEW: De-risking or destruction? Neither is fair

“If there were any scheme designed to destroy the economies of several countries without a military war, then this is such a scheme. It is erroneous; it is pernicious; and it is vicious”.

A blind eye to our changing nation

Is the old Palm Hotel West Bay Street a Holiday Inn or a Courtyard Hotel?

Taking a liberty

I read with interest this morning’s Tribune article detailing the gift of military hardware from The People’s Republic of China to our government and the RBDF.

Intolerable situation

The appointment of Lanisha Rolle to the Senate on the advice of Opposition Leader Dr Hubert Minnis was at the outset a huge political blunder. Subsequent events may prove that it may have been the biggest blunder by a political leader in recent times and the self-designed improvised explosive device that will blow up the leadership aspirations of Hubert Minnis.

Whither go The Bahamas and Beijing . . . and our sovereignty?

WE HOPE that Prime Minister Perry Christie’s confidence that those who scoff at his optimism over the opening of Baha Mar will join him in celebrating its success when the $3.5 billion resort — now attracting unflattering world attention – opens.

Fisherman drowns

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man who reportedly drowned during a fishing trip in Long Island yesterday.

Four more MPs call for public apology by senator

DESPITE Free National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis’ request to keep party problems internal, four more FNM parliamentarians are now calling for Senator Lanisha Rolle to publicly apologise for criticism levelled at members of the party.

Inhaling smoke kills mailboat crew member

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man onboard a mailboat docked in Smith’s Bay, Cat Island, on Sunday morning.

Former MP warns that FNM is facing financial trouble

A FORMER Free National Movement MP who lost his bid to be re-elected during the 2012 general election, has insisted that the party is facing financial troubles with several of its main funders threatening to “abandon ship” if the infighting and leadership issues are not resolved.

Suicide claim over man who drove off pier

POLICE are probing the circumstances surrounding the death of a man who allegedly drove his vehicle into the waters off Clifton Pier on Friday.

Izmirlian seeks Baha Mar talks

BAHA MAR’s developer Sarkis Izmirlian is calling for Prime Minister Perry Christie to sit and meet with him if his Government is serious about getting the $3.5 billion resort completed and opened.

May date for Baha Mar winding-up after government delay request granted

SUPREME Court Justice Ian Winder has again acceded to the Crown's request to further adjourn the government's winding-up petition of Baha Mar until May 2.

State funeral to be held for former senator

A STATE-recognised funeral will be held for former senator Edwin “Wykee” Brown on Friday, February 5, at 11am at Bethel Baptist Church, Meeting Street.

BTC switches on TV product in Bimini

BAHAMAS Telecommunications Company (BTC) has celebrated a new milestone: the official launch into the market of its new FLOW TV package to residents and businesses in Bimni, along with its internet, voice and mobile services.

Mobile liberalisation like ‘duck in the pond’

Mobile liberalisation’s final stages have been compared to “the life of a duck in the pond’, a key adviser explaining that much progress made to-date is not visible to the Bahamian public.

Hayward trustee says his removal ‘complete surprise’

A former trustee for the late Sir Jack Hayward’s family trust says his removal “came as a complete surprise”, since there had been no complaints about the conduct of negotiations to sell the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA).

‘It’s not about money; it’s about quality care’

Doctors have warned that the Government’s National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme will remove all incentive for them to invest in new equipment and expanded practices, turning them into cost-cutting machines and undermining healthcare quality.

Gov’t plans S&P meeting to ward off downgrade

The Government will meet with Standard & Poor’s (S&P) immediately after next month’s mid-year Budget in a bid to stave off a further credit downgrade to ‘junk’ status.

Water Corp violated industrial agreement

The Water & Sewerage Corporation breached the industrial agreement with its management union by failing to give members ‘first shot’ at the contracts for three Family Island reverse osmosis plants.

Sweet victory

The 2016 season got started with Hyo Joo Kim winning her third career title in a keenly contested finish in the fourth Pure Silk Bahamas LPGA Golf Classic on Sunday.

SAC senior, QC junior girls win BAISS title

THE BAISS girls basketball finals featured a repeat in the senior girls’ division and a new champion among junior girls.

‘Cudas’ dominate invitational swim meet over the weekend

THE Barracuda Swim Club dominated their 2016 Leno Corporate Services Barracuda Invite Swim Meet over the weekend at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex.

Georgette Rolle finishes at bottom of the pile

WITH the party back in her backyard for the fourth consecutive year, Georgette Rolle was hoping that her third appearance in the main draw of the Pure Silk Bahamas LPGA Classic would have been better than the previous two in 2013 and 2014.

FNM holds prayer breakfast

FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis attended a prayer breakfast in Grand Bahama on Saturday, calling for unity among party members.

Regulations on drones come into effect today

THE Ministry of Transport and Aviation has reminded the public that regulations governing the operation of drones will take effect today.

A master at work

OVER 400 people thronged to Christ Church Catherdral last week to hear accomplished organist Sparkman Ferguson give his annual Epiphany Recital, among them Governor Generals past and present.

Police investigate sex attack on American tourist

AN American tourist was allegedly “sexually molested” by a Bahamian man, police said.

Turnquest not worried about deputy challenge

FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest yesterday said he is not worried about the potential challengers he might face at the party’s national convention, stressing that such a process is necessary to strengthen the party ahead of the 2017 general election.

Stories for February 2016

Monday, February 29

Sunday, February 28

Saturday, February 27

Friday, February 26

Thursday, February 25

Wednesday, February 24