Wednesday, July 31
Emancipation but not freedom
Slavery in The Bahamas brought with it so many “mustn’ts”. That is what the foundational work of Dr Gail Saunders, together with contributions from scholars like Ms Patrice Williams and Dr Howard Johnson who have built on that foundation, make plain.
EDITORIAL: The same old summer of rushing to repair schools
The race is on. School term starts on September 2 – and the dash to repair buildings before the start of the term is well under way. The question is, will it be done on time?
THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Poverty isn’t a choice, for many it’s their battle throughout life
Money is a complicated topic of discussion. It is, in many ways, taboo to talk about money in real terms. We can comfortably talk about high prices, sales and taxation, but it is more difficult to discuss, in concrete terms, salaries, expenses and what we can and cannot afford.
Time to modernise, D'Aguilar tells Flowers
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar has described recent amendments to the Gaming Act as a “happy medium” while calling on one gaming operator to modernise to avoid being negatively impacted by the changes. He was referring to Craig Flowers, FML Gro
Petition won't stop Disney development
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday said the petition against Disney Cruise Lines’ development of a port at Lighthouse Point will have no bearing on the project proceeding. “The government has already made a decision on this. That project
Police appear to drag woman across the road
AN image of police appearing to drag a woman across the road was shared hundreds of times on Facebook yesterday, sparking outrage from Bahamians who believe the officers’ actions were inhumane.
'Surprise' at just three Nassau Flight offers
A senior government official yesterday voiced surprise that the Nassau Flight Services (NFS) privatisation had attracted just three bids from potential Bahamian purchasers. Algernon Cargill, director of aviation, told Tribune Business that “a lot mo
BNT's Carey: Proceed cautiously on shark legislation
BAHAMAS National Trust executive director Eric Carey wants government to move “very, very cautiously” with plans to amend shark protection legislation.
He couldn’t swim: Drowning victim died hours after buying jetski
A DAY of fun at Lover’s Beach in Eight Mile Rock ended in tragedy for 20-year-old Jerry Device.
School repairs ‘will be done on schedule’
NEARLY $9m has been budgeted for critical school repairs, Education Minister Jeff Lloyd said yesterday as he, along other Cabinet ministers toured four schools in New Providence which are undergoing “serious, urgent repairs”.
‘PM should have sacked WSC director’
BAHAMAS Utilities Services and Allied Workers Union president Dwayne Woods said previous Bahamian prime ministers would have fired Water & Sewerage Corporation board director Bennett Minnis for his inflammatory comments about the Official Opposition.
Cannabis is not all about the money
"There are none so blind as those who will not see."
Are more coming from Europe?
The Tourism Director General made a comment as to the impact of the Lenny Kravits promotional videos promoting the Bahamas…she made mention that Mr Kravits had concerts in Europe at stadiums with 60+000 audiences.
Protection laws have fostered perfect environment for sharks
THE country’s shark protection laws have fostered the perfect environment for research on critically endangered shark species, like the small-tooth sawfish. Dr Mark Bond, Florida International University, said researchers have noticed “very small pu
25,000 still without measles vaccination
AS many as 25,000 people have no vaccination coverage for the highly infectious measles disease, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday.The public’s vaccination rate remains at about 89 to 90 percent, but it could be better, the minister told
We need regulations to control the signs popping up everywhere
For those of us living in the east, and travelling around the bend of Fort Montagu Park, it used to be a delight to look out over the beautifully manicured, low, sea grape hedge, across the freshly mown lawn or grass, onto the majestic beauty of Montagu Bay beyond.
$3.26m contract for Elbow Cay
THE government has signed a $3.26m contract with Bahamas Marine Construction Co. Ltd. for the shoreline stabilisation of ‘Dune Road’ at Elbow Cay, Abaco. The project aims to provide safer passage for residents traversing the area, and the anticipate
CSI TV drama led hotel manager to tourist hanging in room, inquest told
AN Atlantis resort hotel manager yesterday said his familiarity with crime dramas led him to find a South African tourist hanging in her room last year. During the inquest, Bennett Allen, the hotel manager of Atlantis’ Royal Towers, pointed to popula
PMH tackling backlog of 100 surgeries after cooling system mixed
PRINCESS Margaret Hospital is currently tackling a backlog of more than 100 surgeries which were postponed earlier this month while the hospital investigated a suspected sabotage attack, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday. Speaking to rep
New weather stations which can provide island-specific information
THE installation of a WeatherSTEM weather station at Blue Lagoon marks the first Caribbean destination with capacity to provide island-specific, real-time weather information to the island’s management and guests.
Throwers wind up in summer camp
COACH April Smith and her husband love coming to the Bahamas so much that they have made the Blue Chips Athletic Club’s annual throwers’ summer camp a top priority on their list.The duo is back here for the fifth consecutive year to work with Blue Ch
Coach Ronald Cartwright honoured
OVER the span of his 45-year career, Ronald Cartwright has coached athletes who went on to excel as medallists at the CARIFTA, Central American and Caribbean, Pan American, Commonwealth Games, World Championships and Olympic Games.On Friday as the Ba
Distressed debt acquirer's unsecured loan expansion
A “bad mortgage” acquirer is aiming to further relieve distressed borrowers and their lenders by expanding into unsecured loan purchases, it was revealed yesterday.Sir Franklyn Wilson, whose group is one of the investors behind Gateway Financial, tol
Brian Baldwin to headline P1 AquaX Bahamas World Championship at Atlantis
THIS weekend’s Great Lakes Grand Prix is a leading event in the qualification route to the P1 AquaX World Championship at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island. The world’s leading P1 AquaX riders arrive in Indiana later this week with one eye on t
A shifty, uncharismatic and uninspiring leader
PHILIP 'Brave' Davis and Chester Cooper have been reelected, respectively, as leader and deputy leader of the PLP. This act, though not unexpected, confirms that the stalwart councillors are not a group of individuals who think critically or strategically with either the national or the party's interest in mind. In my opinion they are beholden to a tainted, shifty, uncharismatic and uninspiring leader. This is most unfortunate!
Jones’ double powers Sun past Sky 100-94
UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Jonquel Jones had 27 points and 11 rebounds for her 10th double-double this season, and the Connecticut Sun held off the Chicago Sky 100-94 last night for their fifth straight win.
PLP claims its poll says 70% 'dissatisfied' with Minnis
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party internal polls show seventy percent of Bahamians are dissatisfied with the Minnis administration, PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell said yesterday. He did not give The Tribune the poll findings. “The polls give us an edge right n
Minister not intervening in Sky Bahamas dispute
A Cabinet minister yesterday declined to intervene in the dispute that has prevented Sky Bahamas from flying for three weeks and left it on the brink of financial collapse.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, instead urged Captain Ra
Negotiating 'in the dark' fears on hotel talks
A former hotel union presidential candidate has voiced concern that a new industrial agreement is being negotiated “in the dark” with members unaware of what is being done on their behalf. Dave Beckford, who led Team Destiny in its unsuccessful 2013
Law firm urges 'clarification' on $13m judgment
Bahamian law requires further “clarification” following the Privy Council verdict that allowed a liquidator to serve a $13.148m “claw back” claim outside this nation, it was argued yesterday. Attorneys for ZCM Asset Holding Company (Bermuda) Ltd, wh
'Community specific' model to expand for small business
THE Small Business Development Centre’s (SBDC) executive director says it will look to expand the “community specific” model of the Over-the-Hill initiative, where 18 entrepreneurs were awarded $2,500 in grant funding. Those awards represented the f
Pool specialist in new consultancy
A swimming pool services provider has expanded with the launch of his new consulting service, Pool Solutions.Gavin Knowles, long-standing owner and operator of Saline Pools, said he started his new consultancy to ensure swimming pools are free of hea
Tuesday, July 30
EDITORIAL: Civil war in the PLP?
With the fanfare of the Progressive Liberal Party convention barely over, former MP Leslie Miller is already warning of civil war in the party.
FACE TO FACE: Marsha’s keeping our culture alive through her art
Bahamian art and culture means the world to Marsha B. Knowles Adderley. The colours, sounds and vibrancy of Bahamian life are lived through Marsha.
'Political party symbols need to be protected'
PROTECTION for political party symbols need to be “expanded” to prevent people from using party symbols to send “negative messages”, Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday. In an interview with the Tribune, Mr Bethel said the government is look
Alleged child abductor back in court tomorrow
THE Crown is expected to serve alleged child abductor De’Edra Michelle Gibson with her voluntary bill of indictment tomorrow. The VBI, which is a bundle of documents that makes up the Crown’s case against an accused person, was supposed to be served
Speaker doesn't rate PLP chances of success with no-confidence vote
HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie said yesterday the chance of a no confidence vote in Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis succeeding is “negligible”. Nonetheless, he said the Official Opposition would be allowed to move such a motion once they meet the req
BPL eyes a 'before Christmas' deadline for new plant
GENERATION shortfalls continue at Bahamas Power and Light Company as the electricity provider eyes a “before Christmas” deadline for the commissioning of its new plant. Load shedding was initiated Friday and persisted over the weekend because of a h
Sands plays down dangers of mosquito virus
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday said the public should not be alarmed by reports of an increase of a potentially deadly mosquito-borne virus present in central Florida.
New Abaco port needs 'free trade zone' status
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday called for the island’s Chinese-constructed new port to be designated as a “free trade zone” to make its $39m price tag “pay off”. Ken Hutton told Tribune Business that the north Abaco port, built by C
No-confidence vote? Bring it on
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday welcomed the Official Opposition’s pledge to move a no-confidence motion against him in the House of Assembly but sidestepped questions about the Town Centre Mall lease that form the basis of the opposition’s threat.
Shark feeding faces total ban
AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister Michael Pintard yesterday said he believes The Bahamas will get to the point of “completely banning chumming in Bahamian waters”.
Disney petition hits 30k
THE petition against the development of a Disney Cruise Lines port at Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera has garnered over 30,000 signatures.
‘Fred dissed me so I backed Obie’
LESLIE Miller says he supported Obie Wilchcombe in last week’s PLP chairmanship contest because he believes Mr Wilchcombe would look out for past candidates who feel neglected and shut out from seeking nominations in 2022.
Private sector demands WTO 'sense of direction'
The private sector yesterday urged the government to give it “a sense of direction” over its WTO accession plans since the June 2020 target date was clearly “not achievable”. Darron Pickstock, who heads the Chamber of Commerce’s trade and investment
$13,000 raised for kids with sickle cell disease during Miracle Treat Day
More than $13,000 was raised for children with sickle cell disease during this year’s Miracle Treat Day by Dairy Queen Bahamas.
Ready, set, latch on!
Global event seeks to break breastfeeding record
Bahamian women are invited to join mothers from all over the world for the Global Big Latch Off event this weekend to raise awareness of the importance of breastfeeding.
We need all hands on deck!
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
The bionic manhood
Every Bahamian man will face issues with erectile dysfunction at least once in his lifetime. It is an embarrassing affliction that many men suffer with needlessly and in silence.
LIFE LINES: Keeping up in a changing world
“The cave you fear to enter, holds the treasure that you seek.” – Joseph Campbell
Regency queens soar at international pageant
The Bahamas was the only country in the Caribbean region that managed to take top places in the recent Miss Regency International pageant held in Las Vegas, Nevada.
A sister’s legacy fulfilled after more than four decades
Veteran educator launches scholarship fund
Forty-six years after the death of her sister, author and veteran educator Janet Hutcheson is finally able to fulfil her beloved sibling’s legacy with the launch a special scholarship fund. This has been made possible through the discovery of nearly $25,000 which has been sitting dormant in a bank account for decades.
Don't over-tax our visitors
Every year my son takes his family to one of the Family Islands for about ten days. His mother and I tag along.
Mitchell, rank opportunist & chameleon
Like a chameleon, Frederick Mitchell changes his colours and political stripes depending on the needs of the moment and his self-serving political survival and relevance. His principles seem to change as fast as a growing child changes his shoe-size.
Jeffery Gibson voted in as rep for the athletes
MEN’S national 400-metre hurdles record holder Jeffery Gibson has been voted in as the new athletes’ representative for the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations. Gibson, 24, was the only person nominated for the position and was voted in wit
Team Bahamas 3rd as athletes bring home 17 medals - 2 gold
THE Bahamas’ eight-member team returned from the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) Age Group Championships in San Salvador, El Salvador, over the weekend with a third-place finish overall and a total of 17 medals. Medals include
Eastern Division wins Sprite Basketball championship title
THE Eastern Division took on the Western Division during the 11th annual Sprite Basketball Tournament championship game at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium on Friday. After several weeks of intense competition, the Eastern Division team won the title of
Pan Am Games: Newman, Roberts in win column on day 1
Day one of the men’s singles competition at the Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, turned out to be a tale of both ends of the spectrum for Justin Roberts and Baker Newman. Roberts was the national flag carrier for the Bahamas during the official ope
Kristian Robinson ranked No.3 in the Arizona D-backs system
THE Bahamas now can boast of two of the top three prospects in the Arizona Diamondbacks minor league system. Kristian Robinson has now risen to the rank of No.3 within the organisation after he opened the season on a torrid pace for the Hillsboro To
We need people to get our words down, says Bethel
THE government is considering hiring new staff in their bid to resolve the long-standing issue of the lack of stenographers in the Magistrate’s Court, Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday.In an interview with The Tribune, Mr Bethel said he is
A handsome little devil now off the endangered species list
A BIRD that spends half its year in The Bahamas is about to come off the endangered species list.The Kirtland’s Warbler has been considered endangered since 1967, and spends half the year in northern Michigan, and half the year in its preferred Baham
Smith's Point to host festival
After a successful kick-off of Junkanoo Summer Festival last week in Eight Mile Rock, Grand Bahama, the festival will continue at Smith’s Point for the next few Saturdays. According to tourism officials, residents and visitors can expect to see six
Inquest to start into apparent suicide of South African woman
EVIDENCE is expected to be presented today to reveal the circumstances surrounding the alleged suicide of a South African woman at the Atlantis resort last year. The inquest into 25-year-old Carla Van Eeden’s death is due to commence before Her Maje
Man who ran up a tree to evade capture denies groping 18-year-old girl
A 43-year-old man lewdly taunted an 18-year-old woman, her mother and a female police officer in court yesterday when he stood trial over allegations he grabbed the young girl’s buttocks and ran away laughing while her mother gave chase.Sidney Cooper
Marijuana commission may not hit deadline
BAHAMAS National Commission on Marijuana co-chair Quinn McCartney yesterday said there is no guarantee the body will be able to submit their findings to the government on schedule. Mr McCartney said while commission members are “pushing” to meet the
Disability access poor at Parliament, says Henfield
SENATOR Ranard Henfield yesterday hit out at the government’s failure to make parliament more inclusive for people with disabilities. Mr Henfield noted parliametarians in both the Lower and Upper Houses were not required to “upload their contributio
'We'll just have to trust govt over non-profit act'
BAHAMAS Christian Council President Delton Fernander said the organisation would have preferred to police itself when it came to financial regulations, but will ultimately have to trust the government. The Non-Profit Organisation Act was passed alon
Haitian inquiry gets underway
THE Haitian Government has launched a commission of inquiry into concerns of corruption at its embassy in Nassau. The commission arrives today and will meet with Bahamian officials, diplomatic staff, local recruits and community leaders to conduct i
Roberts and Newman lose in doubles
The first time combination of Justin Roberts and Baker Newman lacked the chemistry and it showed in the final outcome of their doubles match at the 2019 Pan American Games.The Bahamian duo went down 6-2, 6-2 to a much more experienced tandem of Guido
'Eagerly awaited $13m claw back verdict upheld
A Bahamian liquidator’s bid to “claw back” a $13.148m pay-out by serving the recipient outside this jurisdiction was yesterday upheld by the London-based Privy Council. The highest court in the Bahamian judicial system found that Alan Bates, court-a
MasterCard eyes Out Island tie-up with credit unions
MASTERCARD wants to introduce its payment technology in the Family Islands via partnerships with Bahamian credit unions, its executives said yesterday, targeting unbanked and under-served communities. Juan Zavala Aleman, MasterCard’s manager of acco
Credit union consolidation predicted by Central Bank
Small Bahamian credit unions will be forced to merge and consolidate as a result of intensified regulation, the Central Bank is predicting.The regulator, in its just-released 2018 Financial Stability Report, said it was increasing oversight of the se
Chinese researchers meet BAIC managers
Chinese agricultural researchers met with the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation’s (BAIC) chairman and executive management on Friday. Tong Xiongcai, vice-president of Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, paid a courtesy call on Bish
Mastercard seeks 'change in mindset' with payments
MASTERCARD yesterday said it is hoping that a “change in mindset” will lead to greater Bahamian take-up of its solution for micro and small businesses in cash-dominated industries. Juan Zavala Aleman, Mastercard’s manager of account management, said
Tourism tie-up produces 678k extra room nights
The Ministry of Tourism is attributing a 678,310 increase in group meeting room nights to its partnership with Cvent, an events and hospitality management technology company. The first year of their tie-up saw group bookings for meetings increase by
PM: Credit unions key to helping 'unbanked'
The prime minister has urged Bahamian credit unions to play “an essential role” in delivering financial services to unbanked communities in the Family Islands.Addressing the World Council of Credit Unions and Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions
Monday, July 29
Loadshedding for Monday night
BPL has announced loadshedding scheduled for Monday night following a three hour rotation for industrial self generating GAP consumers.
Lightning strike and drownings claim three
POLICE are investigating two more drownings and the death of a man struck by lightning Monday.
WORLD VIEW: Boris Johnson’s homegrown can of worms
THERE were echoes of US President Donald Trump’s famous campaign slogan, “Make America great again”, in the first parliamentary statement of Britain’s new Prime Minister, Boris Johnson. “Our mission”, Mr Johnson declared is “making this country the greatest place on earth”.
INSIGHT: Does the PLP leadership have what it takes to form the next government in 2022?
AFTER the almost complete wipeout of the Progressive Liberal Party on May 10, 2017, many believed it would be the end of former Prime minister Perry Christie’s political career - and the end of the PLP’s relevance as one of the two major parties.
Pair injured after domestic dispute in Fusion car park
A DOMESTIC dispute in the parking lot of the Fusion Superplex complex left a woman employee with injuries and a “person of interest” in custody, police confirmed yesterday. “There was a domestic incident there (Fusion), where a male assaulted a fema
Business optimism up but profits fall for 57%
Despite 57 percent of businesses suffering a decline in first-half profits, a Central Bank survey has found that nearly-two-thirds believe the economy will improve during 2019’s final months.
Haiti inquiry into embassy ‘corruption’
THE Haitian Government has launched a commission of inquiry into concerns of corruption at its embassy in Nassau.
Two dead in separate drowning incidents
TWO men died in separate drowning incidents over the weekend. Their deaths bring the number of drownings for the month up to four,
Bank boss warns: we must act on jobless
The Bahamas must “aspire to higher” GDP growth rates in the two to three percent range if it wants to see “new jobs gushing rather than trickling”, the Central Bank’s governor is urging.
‘I’ll probably abstain on confidence vote’
PINERIDGE MP Frederick McAlpine says he will likely vote to abstain if the Official Opposition brings a no-confidence resolution in the House of Assembly against Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, signalling he will not show public support for the leader of his party.
Obie: I’m fighting on for PLP seat
OBIE Wilchcombe says he will “absolutely” continue to vie for the Progressive Liberal Party’s nomination in West Grand Bahama and Bimini despite losing the chairmanship race to Fred Mitchell on Friday.
Cut 'terrifying' bad loan rate by over 50%
The Central Bank’s governor wants to further cut the “terrifying” 8.7 percent loan delinquency rate by more than half despite it having fallen to its lowest level in a decade.While describing the consistent decline in non-performing bank loans as “ve
All-Star Jones posts double double
Jonquel Jones made her second WNBA All-Star appearance and posted a double double in the 2019 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game.
FIBA U-17: Bahamas men settle for bronze
ROMAD Dean controlled the boards for Team Bahamas all tournament and came up with his most timely offensive rebound and score to lift the team to a bronze medal at the FIBA Centrobasket Under-17 Championship for Men. With the win, the Bahamas will a
Bahamas 3rd overall as junior golfers Azar, Anand win
THE Bahamas may not have won the Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championship crown, but at least two of the competitors made an impression among their peers at the Albany Golf Club last week.At the end of the three-day event on Friday, Diego Azar capt
Botswana dominate the relay challenge
GRAND BAHAMA — The visiting Botswana men’s and women’s 4 x 400 metre relay teams came all the way from Africa and dominated the relay challenge against the Bahamas at the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations Senior National Track and Field Ch
Miller-Uibo runs away with 400m national title
GRAND BAHAMA — Without any push from her three international rivals from Botswana, Shaunae Miller-Uibo ran away with the women’s 400 metres to highlight day one of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations Senior National Track and Field Champ
Gardiner victorious, Jones pulls off upset in 200m
GRAND BAHAMA — Despite the scorching heat in the middle of the day at the Grand Bahama Sports Complex, Steven Gardiner blazed to victory in the men’s 400 metres on Saturday in the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations National Senior Track and
Obie now at the back of the bus
The Progressive Liberal Party has now concluded its 54th National Convention.
Burning issue haunts Mitchell
Well, mudda sic! I almost choked on my oatmeal this morning when I read Fred Mitchell’s advice to party followers as they went into convention to vote for their party’s leaders last week.
A COMIC'S VIEW: It would be shameful if, after that electoral stomping, the PLP has not changed
EARLY yesterday, news broke that Philip “Brave” Davis and Chester Cooper were returned as leader and deputy leader respectively of the Progressive Liberal Party as both went unchallenged at the party’s convention.
POLICE ADVICE: Simple rules for the road - they’ll keep you safe
Be responsible while driving and walking. For your safety and the safety of others, you must follow these rules.
Start-up looking for support to launch finance advice plan
A LOCAL tech start-up is seeking support to launch a financial and investment literacy programme aimed at teaching the millennial generation about the importance of investing and wealth-building. Stacc Financial, a digital financial services company
Man found dead off Prince Charles Drive
Police are investigating after the body of a man was found with head injuries off Prince Charles Drive.
Minnis sees ZNS complete digital transformation
The final phase of the digital transformation upgrade of ZNS television was completed when Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis on Friday officially launched digital high definition (HD) television at ZNS northern service in Grand Bahama.
Caps, no interest paid on digital B$
The digital Bahamian dollar will be non-interest earning with accounts capped at a certain amount to protect the financial system’s stability, the Central Bank’s governor has revealed. John Rolle, in a briefing on 2019 first half economic developmen
Skilled workforce is 'critical for tech hub
Transforming Grand Bahama into a “technology hub” involves far more than attracting investors, a Cabinet minister has conceded, with developing a skilled workforce “a critical part” of its plans.Senator Kwasi Thompson, minister of state for Grand Ba
Govt's training focus to underpin tech hub
The government is focusing on education and training to help build the skilled workforce necessary to underpin its technology hub ambitions, a Cabinet minister says. Senator Kwasi Thompson, minister of state for Grand Bahama in the Office of the Pri
Bahamas marketed at largest aviation event
The Bahamas had a strong presence at the world’s largest general aviation show in a bid to attract more private pilot visitors to the destination. The Ministry of Tourism and Aviation was out in full force at the 2019 Experimental Aircraft Associati
Bahamas must avoid 'undue WTO missteps'
The Bahamas must carefully examine the “many complex challenges” presented by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to avoid any “undue missteps” in joining, a governance reformer is urging. Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s
Compliance officers meet on EU data rule's impact
Bahamian compliance officers met for a half-day seminar to discuss how new European data protection rules will impact the sourcing and safeguarding of client information.The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which came into
'Early fall' target to ease property deals
The Central Bank is targeting “early fall” for simplifying exchange control’s involvement with foreign residential real estate purchases as a means to eliminate unnecessary red tape.John Rolle, its governor, confirmed during a briefing on 2019 first
Sunday, July 28
Police look into spate of armed robberies
POLICE are investigating a spate of weekend armed robberies across New Providence. In two separate incidents early Sunday morning, men and women were held at bay by armed robbers who stole cash and other items. The first incident took place shortly
Saturday, July 27
Body of man found in water at Sandyport Marina
Police are investigating after the body of a man was found in waters at the Sandyport Marina on Friday afternoon.
Friday, July 26
PLP Convention: Opposition to bring no confidence motion in House against PM
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said the Official Opposition will bring a no-confidence motion in the House of Assembly against Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis.
Court orders landscaping firm to compensate employee
A landscaping company was ordered on Friday to fully compensate one of its employees for all of the days it suspended her without pay earlier this month, which were actually days she had to report for jury duty.
New recruits inducted into RBDF
MORE than a hundred new recruits were inducted into the Royal Bahamas Defence Force during a passing out parade at HMBS Coral Harbour on Friday.
Fred Mitchell wins PLP Chairman vote
FRED Mitchell on Friday won a dominant victory over Obie Wilchcombe in the closely watched chairmanship race at the Progressive Liberal Party convention, receiving 802 votes to Mr Wilchcombe's 338 votes, according to sources.
EDITORIAL: Why would we want yesterday’s men back in charge again?
SO, barring a catastrophe at the polls in the new election, we are almost certainly in line for a second Minnis administration.
Police officers rewarded for their gallantry, long service and good conduct.
CONSTABLE 3975 Deshana Burnside received a medal for gallantry for an act of bravery in the midst of serious danger, one of more than 400 officers who were presented with medals at Government House this week. On Wednesday and Thursday, 280 officers
Helicopter crash that killed seven happened shortly after take off
THE helicopter crash that killed American billionaire Chris Cline and six other passengers occurred shortly after take off, the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported. According to the board, the aircraft, which took off from Big Gr
Cooper: We are in a fight for the soul of our nation
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper told party faithfuls last night they are fighting for the “very soul of our nation.”
Children's ward evacuated after cooling problem
PATIENTS of Princess Margaret Hospital’s Children’s Ward were temporarily relocated to the hospital’s former Intensive Care Unit on Wednesday evening, following insufficient cooling capacity to the ward. “Minor wear and tear issues were discovered,
FNM: Convention shows PLP not fit to govern
THE Free National Movement has asserted that divisions on display at the Progressive Liberal Party’s national convention shows it is not fit to govern the country.
June 2020 target for WTO is 'aspirational'
The June 2020 target for The Bahamas to become a full WTO member is “purely aspirational” and not one that must be met at all costs, a Cabinet minister confirmed yesterday. Elsworth Johnson, newly-appointed minister of financial services, trade and
Defiant Obie takes fight to Mitchell
FORMER Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe criticised Senator Fred Mitchell’s storied past with the Progressive Liberal Party, suggesting he found it “amazing” that the senator’s loyalty to the organisation has not been questioned as both men face off today for the chairmanship of the PLP.
Fraud audit - now there’s move to act
THE Ministry of Public Service issued ‘show cause’ letters yesterday to ten people implicated in a Department of Education scheme that defrauded the government of $450k, signalling the government has began the process of terminating the employees.
PLP agrees to amend rules to let more vote
THE Progressive Liberal Party has agreed to amend its constitution to significantly increase the number of delegates that could participate and vote in its national conventions, a change that may impact future leadership races.
Davis: I won’t let my people down
PHILIP “Brave” Davis, Chester Cooper and Robyn Lynes were returned as the Progressive Liberal Party’s leader, deputy leader and vice chairman respectively yesterday, as those in the PLP insisted it is a new and improved political organisation ready for a 2022 election victory.
Officer ‘justified’ in fatal shooting
A JURY unanimously found yesterday that the 2014 police-involved killing of Andrew Stubbs, 35, was justified.
Me first the way to go
On July 24, 2019, Boris Johnson became the new prime minister of the United Kingdom(UK). He is known to be bombastic and was selected by his conservative party to get a better deal from the European Union (EU) or leave without a deal.
West vs East in face off for Sprite Basketball title
AFTER several weeks of competition, the Western & Eastern Division teams will face off for the title of Sprite basketball champions at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium today.
BLTA partners with ministry to host summer tennis camp
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) has partnered with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture to host a tennis summer camp at the National Tennis Centre. The camp facilitator and junior development head for the BLTA, Perry Newton, has dir
Supreme Ballers win Andrew Johnson basketball tourney
THE Supreme Ballers basketball team out of New Providence went to Harbour Island last week and returned as champions of the Andrew Johnson Basketball Tournament. Supreme Ballers, coached by Brent ‘Lefty’ Higgs and Duery Edgecombe, won the championsh
Royal Fidelity sponsors national golf team
ROYAL Fidelity has come on board as the proud sponsor of the Bahamas Golf Federation’s junior national team that is representing the Bahamas in the 2019 Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships at the Albany resort. Six Caribbean countries are co
Junior golfers Anand, Azar in the lead
SOPHIE Anand continues to hold onto her lead in the girls’ 15-and-under division, while Diego Azar surged to the front in the boys’ 11-13 division as day two of the Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships came to a close at the Albany Golf Club y
Bahamas bounce back, rout El Salvador 86-57
After losing their opener to host Puerto Rico, the Bahamas national team rebounded to take their frustration out on El Salvador at the FIBA Under-17 Centrobasket Championships. In their opener on Wednesday at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Jua
'Buddy' takes time out to recognise High Flyers
CHAVANO ‘Buddy’ Hield, showing his appreciation to SuperClubs Breezes for hosting his 24 elite players, took the time out to recognise the Breezes High Flyers for their three-peat performance as the New Providence Basketball Association champions.Sti
Artie Johnson's 20th annual tennis camp a success in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera
SUMMER tennis camps all over the Bahamas were conducted during the month of July and they all were very successful. In Eleuthera, Artie Johnson held his 20th annual Summer Camp in Palmetto Point. The Artie Johnson Camp had visiting speakers who pro
Leevan 'Superman' Sands plans to retire next year
HE will skip this year’s National Track and Field Championships this weekend in Grand Bahama, but national record holder Leevan ‘Superman’ Sands said he intends to hop, skip and jump his way into his retirement next year. Nursing an injury that will
Don't bear false witness
Nassau Guardian cartoonist Stan Burnside is on his way out at the esteemed publication.
Stop letting the side down
Since the evolution of human societies diplomats have been in the business of conveying messages between polities safely and reliably. In modern as in ancient diplomacy the nature and functioning of the diplomatic machine has remained the same, with few notable additions.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Who invented the to-do list anyway?
I was trying to remember when I wrote my first to-do list. Maybe in high school or college.
When stop means stop
This week the government announced new regulations for motorists would come into force in the first week of January.For drivers it will mean fines for using a cell phone behind the wheel, having open alcohol, no insurance or proper driving licence.Ca
BTVI encouraging girls to choose science first
THE Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute recently joined a list of other countries encouraging girls and young women to consider educational and career paths in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). A one-day Girls Power Tech conf
Ten jobs axed at plastics company
A PLASTICS manufacturing plant in Freeport has terminated 10 contract workers, according to a company executive. Greg Ebelhar, chief operating officer at Polymers International Ltd, said: “Polymers International Ltd recently adjusted our workforce i
Man with illegal firearm arrested
POLICE arrested a man on Wednesday after he was found in possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition. According to reports, shortly after 9pm, Mobile Division officers, while at Isabella Drive in Marathon Estate, conducted a search of the male a
Driver dies after traffic collision
POLICE are investigating a traffic collision which left a man dead early Thursday morning. According to police, shortly after 1am a grey Honda Aria driven by a woman collided with a red Suzuki Swift driven by a mam on Bernard Road near the Aqua Pure
No 'wait and see' on Abaco port upgrades
Abaco is not taking a “wait and see approach” over further upgrades to its commercial shipping port despite averting the threat of a US cargo shut-down, a local MP revealed yesterday. James Albury, who is also the Abaco parliamentary secretary in th
Sports Notes
SOFTBALL BANKERS LEAGUE AFTER taking a break, the Banker's Athletic Association will resume its softball league on Saturday at the Banker's Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex. Here's the schedule of games on tap: 1 pm BAF Financial vs CI
Chemicals targeted for ban in 1,900 Bahamian buildings
A Chamber of Commerce executive yesterday hailed efforts that have identified 1,900 Bahamian buildings which contain toxic chemicals due to be banned under an international treaty. Debby Deal, who heads the chamber’s energy and environment division, p
Non-profit reforms 'big improvement'
Civil Society Bahamas’ president yesterday said the latest reforms to non-profit regulation represent “a marked improvement” that will prevent the elimination of many groups. Dr Anthony Hamilton, who heads the umbrella organisation that represents l
OECD not harmful finding may only be 'temporary reprieve'
The Clearing Banks Association’s (CGA) chairman yesterday said the OECD’s finding that The Bahamas’ tax regime is “not harmful”, while “good news”, represents only a “temporary reprieve”.Gowon Bowe, pictured, told Tribune Business: “That is a positiv
Bahamas urged: 'Keep pace' on financial reporting quality
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to “keep pace” with global financial reporting standards, a senior accountant arguing: “We have not been accustomed to reporting on our financial affairs”. Gowon Bowe, the Clearing Banks Association’s (CBA) chairman,
IAN FERGUSON: Building the right workplace culture
No matter the industry or profession, in today’s fast-paced corporate environment we undoubtedly spend the majority of our waking week-day hours at work. A lot of us spend more time with our colleagues than with our own families, and during some week
BAIC Farmer's Market in east Nassau return
The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) yesterday said its Farmer’s Market will return to RM Bailey Park this Saturday with a variety of Bahamian grown fruits and vegetables on sale at reasonable prices. BAIC will again team up wi
Thursday, July 25
A cry in the dark
I must say what the Lord tells me to say. I must do what the Lord called me to do. One of the greatest displeasures in this life is to live for oneself, and not for the Lord. If you’re not living for the Lord Jesus, then you’re only existing and not
A choir gives comfort to the elderly
On Saturday, June 15, the Interdenominational Men’s Choir paid a pre- Father’s Day courtesy call on the Geriatric Hospital.On this special visit, the men’s choir treated the patients to cake and ice cream.The choir is headed by Ivan Ferguson. Words o
Meditation: Building the next 46 years: Part II
In part one we focused on the first three of the proposed seven building blocks with which to build this nation: leadership, inspiration, trustworthiness, faithfulness, dedication, commitment, and good stewardship. Let us now examine the last four.
An encounter of the divine kind - Two ministries join forces to show youth 'unshakable faith'
Under the theme “Unshakable Faith”, two Bahamian ministries will soon come together to host a praise and worship concert “to witness a mighty move of God”. Organised by Pastor Derek Farrington Ministries (DFM) in conjunction with Secret Place Minist
27-year-old man denies $44,500 fraud charges
A 27-year-old man was arraigned in Magistrates Court yesterday charged with stealing and laundering $40,000 from Commonwealth Bank and $4,500 from Scotiabank over a two-month period. Samuel Kemp, of Davis Street, Fox Hill, appeared before Magistrate
PLP CONVENTION: Day one
PLP Deputy Leader Chester Cooper – the final speaker of the night – is joined on stage by Party Leader Philip 'Brave' Davis and supporters. Don't miss Friday's Tribune for reaction from the day one of the PLP Convention.
EDITORIAL: A partnership which really would deliver on health
THE Democratic National Alliance is, we are sure, well intentioned and wants the best for the Bahamas. It raises its hand to speak every so often, makes a few points which we already pretty much know all about and then disappears back into the shadows.
STATESIDE: In the Democrats ranks a few real contenders stand out - maybe even a future president
The field of Democratic contenders for Trump’s throne continues to number more than two dozen.
20 beaches in Bahamas awarded the top rating
ABOUT 20 beaches in The Bahamas have received a “green status” meeting water quality standards that are safe for swimmers, according to an international swim guide website.SwimGuide.org - which publishes the status of beaches around the world - relea
Five people, including a JP, face charges over sham marriages
THREE men and two women were arraigned in Magistrates Court yesterday on charges related to fraudulent marriages. Bradley Smith, 48, of Moncur Alley off Kemp Road, Bernard Musgrove, 19, of Palm Beach Street, Haitian national Willy Exama, 24, of Mack
QC: ‘Don’t do business in Bahamas right now’
A prominent QC yesterday said he “would not advise anybody to do business in The Bahamas right now” because of the “strangulation” caused by excessive red tape and client due diligence.
Education bonus fraud: ‘Ten should face action’
THE Office of the Attorney General recommended that disciplinary action, including dismissal, be taken against ten people involved in a Department of Education scheme that defrauded the government of $450,000.
Sky chief asks regulators: Do you want us to close?
Sky Bahamas' principal last night challenged aviation regulators to clarify whether they want "to shut us down" as the airline "could be at the point of not coming back".
Cop killed suspect armed with knife
A WOMAN officer testified yesterday about the moment she saw a knife wielding man charge at her partner before he was fatally shot in Pinewood Gardens nearly ten years ago.
Sex offender register moves a step closer
REGULATIONS tabled in the House of Assembly yesterday contain a provision for the public to be notified through the Royal Bahamas Police Force of the release of a sexual offender from the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.
Non-profits face cash crackdown
UNDER the Non-Profit Organisations Amendment Bill, non-profits that fail to renew registration face having financial accounts frozen and being investigated by authorities, according to Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration Minister Elsworth Johnson.
Collie-minns twins back together again
THEY’RE back together again, competing as a twin tandem in the men’s triple jump for the first time since the 2012 IAAF World Junior Championships. Next week, they both contest the Pan American Games before they head off to the IAAF World Championshi
USA Junior Olympics: Water Polo team brings home gold
THE seven members of the Bahamas national water polo team returned home last night after teaming up with members of the North Houston Storm team where they captured the gold medal at the USA Junior Olympics in California. The team, named the BahStor
Marine to face murder trial next month
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force marine charged with murdering his superior at Government House is set to stand trial in August before the Supreme Court. Able Seaman Jevon Seymour stood before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt yesterday to recei
GB Express to stay in business
GB Express in Freeport will remain in operation, according to co-owner Bob Clutter, who revealed yesterday that Department of Customs officials have now agreed to a system that would reduce costs for the company and their customers. The company - wh
Mitchell urges members to be on their best behaviour at convention
AS members of the Progressive Liberal Party head into day one of their convention, PLP chairman Fred Mitchell has offered some guidance to candidates running for internal office: be careful what you say and avoid public attacks on colleagues. In a p
Canadian biometrics service for visas
THE Canadian government is offering a biometrics collection service in Nassau next week. The service will be available on July, 29, 30, and on August 1 to those who have applied for a visitor visa, for a study or work permit or for permanent residen
Messi's new club
LIONEL Messi, according to many experts the finest soccer player in the world, has been relaxing at the luxury Ocean Club resort on Paradise Island this week.The 32-year-old, who plays for Argentina, right, and Barcelona, is on holiday with his fami
'Healthcare system is falling apart and we need a plan'
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Leader Arinthia Komolafe has called for the government and Health Minister Dr Duane Sands to produce a “comprehensive plan” for the nation’s healthcare system to ensure an improved standard of living for Bahamians. Speak
Bahamas in two-way tie for 2nd place
The Bahamas is sitting in a two-way tie for second place in the team standings after day one of the 32nd Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships, thanks to the performances of Sophie Anand, Diego Azar, Heathcliff Kane and Tyesha Tynes.The quartet
BTC spots 'chinks in Cable's armour'
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) top executive believes there are “chinks in the armour” at Cable Bahamas that it can exploit to win back market share. Garfield “Garry” Sinclair, pictured , BTC’s chief executive, told Tribune Business
Petition targets PM on $580m Abaco project
Opponents of a $580m south Abaco resort project have launched an online petition that has amassed 767 signatures in just over one week against the development.The petition, started by Sustainable South Abaco and aimed at the Prime Minister, warns tha
Jones posts double double, Sun beat the Liberty 70-63
AS the Connecticut Sun closed out the first half of the Women’s National Basketball Association regular season yesterday, centre Jonquel Jones poured in another double double in a 70-63 victory over the New York Liberty. Jones, who is now preparing
FINA WORLDS: Fitzgerald 71st overall in 100m free
JARED Fitzgerald, the only Bahamian in action at the 18th FINA World Championships in Gwangju, Korea, had to settle for ninth place in his heat of the men’s 100m freestyle.
Collapse is on the cards
I am a life long student of Bahamian politics. Politics here in our wonderful nation is phenomenal and oftentimes perplexing. Everyone, literally, expected the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) to have lost the May, 2017 general elections. Few, however, expected the landslide victory of the Free National Movement (FNM). That party declared that it was “the people’s time” and the rest is history.
Tobacco so illogical
Worldwide there are generally two legalised drugs. The first is tobacco, Sir Walter Raleigh brought tobacco from the Americas to Europe in 1586. Incredibly it was perceived in its early years as being beneficial to your health.
THE PRESS BOX: News from the Cowboys' ranch: Zeke's in the house
MY Dallas Cowboys head to training camp this week - the six-week countdown to the kickoff of the NFL’s 100th season is on. And despite the rumours of a potential holdout by All-Pro running back Ezekiel Elliott, all seems to be business as usual, wit
National plan demanded for fishing sector
THE Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association’s (BFFIA) president yesterday called for a national development plan for the industry, voicing concerns that its regulatory regime needs to be strengthened.Prescott Smith told Tribune Business that having
DPM hails OECD finding that tax laws 'not harmful'
The deputy prime minister yesterday hailed the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) finding that The Bahamas’ domestic tax laws are “not harmful”. KP Turnquest, in a statement, said the Paris-based body’s assessment reinfo
Bahamian law firm in awards nominee first
A Bahamian law firm has been shortlisted for Offshore Firm of the Year at this year’s Chambers High Net Worth Awards 2019. Lennox Paton said its shortlisting as one of three finalists marks the first time a local law firm has been in contention for
Fund Act improved due to EU demands
Reforms to the Investment Funds Act will ensure improved investor protection and attract more business to The Bahamas, the deputy prime minister said yesterday. K Peter Turnquest told Parliament that the changes, tabled in Parliament yesterday, were
Non-profit regulation will be 'light touch'
Changes to the Non-Profit Organisations Bill provide for a “light touch” regulatory framework, the deputy prime minister said yesterday, describing the reforms as a “reasonable compromise”.K Peter Turnquest, addressing Parliament on the revised legis
Wednesday, July 24
EDITORIAL: Laws which make sense - for the safety of us all
It’s not often you can look at an incoming piece of legislation and honestly think - about time.
THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: Why now there is simply no excuse
How often do you think about the power you have? As a parent, employer, or citizen, you have a certain amount of power that people who are not in the same position do not.
Wells insists Post Office is in the right place
TRANSPORT Minister Renward Wells fiercely defended the Minnis administration’s decision to lease the Town Centre Mall to house the General Post Office yesterday, insisting the government hid no element of the deal.And despite calls for the lease agre
Union continues assault on BTC management
THE Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union continued its verbal assault on BTC’s leadership yesterday, this time attacking the credibility of CEO Garry Sinclair. After filing a trade dispute against BTC, BCPOU president, Dino Rolle, said i
Davis now happy to take on challengers
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis pivoted last night from rhetoric discouraging a challenge to his leadership team at the upcoming PLP convention.
Aliv: 'Growth at all costs' has finished
Aliv’s top executive says its business model is shifting from “growth at all costs” as it targets a mobile market share “in the mid-40 percent” range by the 2020 half-way mark. Damian Blackburn, in a recent interview with Tribune Business, said the
October D-Day for new road rules
THE government is eyeing an October deadline for the enforcement of amendments that were made to the Road Traffic Act back in March.
Family of mother who set daughter ablaze – My sister needs help, not just to be punished
PHILIPA Marshall, the schizophrenic woman who was convicted of murdering her one-year-old daughter by setting her on fire, needs help, not retribution, says her elder sister Denise Carey.
The British are coming back
TRANSPORT Minister Renward Wells said yesterday the British High Commission is scheduled to return to The Bahamas in August.
Oban: We’ve not gone away
AS negotiations between the government and Oban Energies continue for a more environmentally-friendly and sustainable development, a source close to the project says that Oban officials remain confident and committed to the project.
31-year-old from Abaco charged with murder
A 31-year-old Abaco man accused of killing a father of two was charged with murder in the Marsh Harbour Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Kevin Gabriel, of Crockett Drive, appeared before Magistrate A Evans. It is alleged that on Friday, July 19, the ac
Bahamas Pro Golf Tour Signature Classics 2nd round set for Ocean Club
WITH round one in the history books, the second round of the 2019 Bahamas Professional Golf Tour (BPGT) Signature Golf Classics is heading to Paradise Island at the Ocean Club Golf Course on Sunday.
Roberts hosts clinic for BLTA juniors
FRESH off his first International Tennis Federation men’s doubles and singles titles in a span of one week, Justin Roberts returned home for a brief break before he heads out today to represent the Bahamas at the Pan American Games.During his stay, R
'Buddy' Hield likes the make up of his Kings
WITH so much wheeling and dealing that went down during the free agency period in the National Basketball Association, shooting guard Chavano ‘Buddy’ Hield likes the make up of the Sacramento Kings as they prepare for the 2019/20 regular season. “Ga
Munnings opens the 32nd Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships
TIMOTHY Munnings, director of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, encouraged the golfers to cherish the relationships they forge here this week as he officially opened the 32nd Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships. Munnings’ remarks we
FINA Worlds: Evans 31st overall in 200m freestyle
After opening up in the 400 metre freestyle at the 18th FINA World Championships in Gwangju, Korea, on Sunday, Joanna Evans returned to competition yesterday in the 200m freestyle. Inside the Nambu University Municipal Aquatics Center, the Grand Baha
We must hold on to those things that make us who we are
I am a Bahamian who has grown weary of reading editorials about why we need to cut ties with our British or colonial heritage.
Shrewd play by the PM
There is a theory that the Prime Minister was being cunning like a fox when he chose to stare at the leather in his shoe rather than look the international boss of BTC directly in the eye.
College happy to open its new alumni office
SATURDAY July 20 marked a new page in the Saint Augustine’s College Alumni Association’s book. Due to damage caused by successive hurricanes, the alumni office, which for many years was originally located on the campus of St Augustine’s College, Fox
Rolle: NIB serious about collecting missing $17m
THE National Insurance Board is serious about collecting $17m in outstanding contributions, Public Service Minister Brensil Rolle said yesterday, revealing some employers have gone before the courts for committing the offence. Although he could not
Fraud trial over fake degree claim now set for 2020
A DATE in 2020 has been set for a man’s trial alleging he used fraudulent documents to secure his admission to the Bahamas Bar. Acting Deputy Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain said Shavon Bethel will stand trial on January 22 next year on 10 criminal
August deadline set to tackle transport problems
TRANSPORT Minister Renward Wells said yesterday the British High Commission is scheduled to return to The Bahamas in August. Mr Wells, in an interview with reporters outside of Cabinet after a recent trip to London, said he looks forward to Bahamian
$300m takes island from 'industrial site to paradise'
MEDITERRANEAN Shipping Company (MSC) executives yesterday said $300m has been invested to-date in transforming Ocean Cay from an “industrial site into paradise”, with close to 130 Bahamians to be employed.The Swiss-headquartered global shipping giant
Cable and BTC reject URCA's IXP argument
Cable Bahamas and the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) have unanimously cast doubt on URCA’s case for developing a local Internet Exchange Point (IXP). The Bahamas’ two largest communications companies, responding to the Utilities Regulation
Real estate sales show two-tiered market continues
Real estate sales data for the 2019 first half continues to show a two-tiered market, as the lower and middle class segment continues to struggle while the upper end surges. An analysis of Multiple Listing System (MLS) data by real estate firm, Enge
DPM: OECD tax review 'pointless, will be deferred'
The deputy prime minister yesterday said a planned OECD review of The Bahamas is “pointless” and “will be deferred” because this nation has yet to enter any income tax treaties. KP Turnquest told Tribune Business that the government was in the proce
Farmer's Market 'closer to home' for east Nassau
The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation’s (BAIC) latest Pop-Up Farmer’s Market has been hailed by eastern New Providence customers delighted to see it “closer to home”. BIAC and the Potter’s Cay Dock Produce Exchange moved the event from
Bahamian entrepreneurs take part in Atlanta event
The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) has helped four Bahamian companies to participate in The Village Market Atlanta and sell their handmade products. The SBDC worked with The Bahamas’ Consulate General in Atlanta to facilitate a trip that w
MSC cruise port targets 'close to zero' eco effect
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) executives yesterday pledged that their Ocean Cay private cruise port will have as “close to zero” environmental impact as possible, as mandated by the project’s financing. Matthew McKinnon, senior advisor to the
Tuesday, July 23
FACE TO FACE: Butch or Plati Dread - life’s never been conventional
A trend is growing in Nassau. More and more people are becoming interested in alternatives to traditional ways of living.
DNA raises more concerns over BPL power plant
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Leader Arinthia Komolafe yesterday demanded Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and Works Minister Desmond Bannister address lingering concerns surrounding Bahamas Power and Light.
King denies fraud charges
BAHAMIAN businessman and impresario Rudolph “Rudy” King was charged yesterday with defrauding the General Post Office of over a half a million dollars, then laundering that amount between 2012 and 2015.
Sky Bahamas in fight to survive: Flights grounded and airline could face total collapse
Sky Bahamas’ principal yesterday said the airline and its 63 employees are fighting for its survival following a two-week long grounding due to delays in a key permit’s renewal.
Son accused of killing his mother
THE 26-year-old son of a woman found dead last week in the trunk of a car was charged with her murder in the Freeport Magistrates Court yesterday.
Sears in threat to sue Sands
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands has been told to apologise for comments he recently made about Bahamas and Power and Light’s former board or face a defamation lawsuit.
Severe weather heads north
Torrential rains which swamped New Providence are expected to clear up by later today with the damaging weather system heading north towards Florida. Yesterday’s rains prompted a severe weather warning but the chances of a tropical cyclone forming are considered “slim”.
Maynard tells BTC boss: go back to Jamaica - now
Bahamas Electrical Workers Union president Paul Maynard wants BTC’s Chief Executive Officer Garry Sinclair to do one thing: to go back to Jamaica.
Motorist causes death by dangerous driving
A 26-year-old man yesterday denied allegations that his dangerous driving in a car he had no permission to operate caused the death of a 25-year-old woman last month. Shaquille Bethel Hamilton entered a not guilty plea to causing Yoandra Roberts’ de
Man on attempted murder charge
A 24-year-old man recently acquitted of attempting to murder a police officer in 2016 was charged yesterday with trying to kill a woman two months ago. Shannon Wilson, of Cotton Wood Street, stood before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt accuse
Buddy hosts clinic
THE University of the Bahamas has partnered with Sacramento Kings’ Buddy Hield to host an elite invitational basketball clinic for top high school players in the country.At a press conference yesterday, UB president Rodney Smith revealed that UB Athl
Break-in likely to cost Dundas Centre $7,000
A BREAK-IN at the Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts has left the iconic non-profit with more than $7,000 worth of damage, according to manager Delores Adderley, who made appeals for donations to offset repair costs. Mrs Adderley, who has been th
BISX 'very close' with gov't debt
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) is “very close” to having the $3bn-plus government debt market listed and traded on its platform, its chief executive has confirmed. Keith Davies, pictured , speaking after the Central Bank took a
'Tum Tum' home after being 'fired from the Phoenix Suns'
LOURAWLS ‘Tum Tum’ Nairn Jr is no longer with the Phoenix Suns. But he will cherish the opportunity that he had to work in the front office in player development.“I’ve been home for the past few months just chilling after we got fired from the Phoeni
'Viagra' for women
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on June 21 approved the new “female Viagra”, a sexual libido enhancing medication called Vyleesi. Vyleesi is not a pill; it is a self or partner administered injectable that should be given 45 minutes before sexual intercourse. It has been recommended that Vyleesi should not be administered more than once in a 24-hour period and it should not be used more than eight times in a given month.
LIFE LINES: Networking at work
The title of this column is deliberately ambiguous to enable a conversation about my two intended meanings: the necessity of so-called ‘networking’ for business purposes, and when or how it does or doesn’t work, with particular emphasis on how women perceive the use of networking.
Generations of Girl Guides, patrons turn out for soft launch in $800,000 fundraiser to complete headquarters
Long before the US women’s soccer team won its fourth World Cup title amidst cheers of fans round the world, there were young girls across the globe headed for success, many of them thanks to an international organisation – the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.
Parents and those expecting enjoy ‘Babycation’ expo
Parents, and well as moms- and dads-to-be, got to experience a fun ‘Babycation’ themed event at the British Colonial Hilton.
Begin a new, healthier life with your own garden
After her mother was told to eat better or else she may not enjoy the full quality of life, Latoya Hutchinson decided to grow a full-fledged garden in her backyard to help provide her mother with healthy, home-grown produce.
Life after loss: Coping with a spouse’s death
New community seeks to support young widows
The death of a spouse can have a profound, often devastating impact on our lives.
'Buddy' opens Hope Elite 24 Basketball series
Chavano ‘Buddy’ Hield remembers the time when he was running around trying to get an opportunity to be seen by the international scouts. Now the Grand Bahamian going into his fourth year in the National Basketball Association is opening the door for
All change on Bay Street
My late maternal grandmother, born in 1900, would often reminisce about the sleepy town of Nassau, with its quaint little Bay Street shops, many of which buildings are still here today.
Obie stays above fray
I must commend former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) MP and Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe for demonstrating civility and political maturity amid vicious propaganda attacks against him in recent days.
EDITORIAL: Beware the mess Boris is sure to create
Imagine the worst politician you’ve ever seen. A liar, adulterer and buffoon who makes himself, his party and his country look a laughing stock. What can you do with such a person. Well, it’s obvious isn’t it? Make him Prime Minister.
32nd Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships opens tonight
THE Bahamas Golf Federation’s hosting of the 32nd Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships is slated to begin 6pm tonight with the official opening ceremonies at the Superclubs Breezes Grand Ballroom. The event, staged by the Caribbean Golf Assoc
'Reno' has fists set on world title
TUREANO ‘Reno’ Johnson said his dominating performance over Ireland’s Jason Quigley for the North American Boxing Federation (NABF) middleweight title is just the tip of the iceberg. He now wants to go after a world title.In the 10-round main event o
Modified Pitch Softball League action
THE New Providence (Wholesalers) Modified Pitch Softball League saw action over at the Blue Hills Sporting Complex. Airborne Freight Stallions 17, Hitmen 5: Short Stop Alcott Forbes went 3-for-4, scored three runs, drove in three runs and added a ho
Did RBDF officers bring in undeclared items?
CUSTOMS officers seized goods from a Royal Bahamas Defence Force vessel docked near the Coral Harbour base on Sunday. In a statement yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance K Peter Turnquest said: “The customs investigation team ass
Union: BTC 'needs leader with a plan'
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) lacks “a leader with a plan”, its line staff union chief is arguing, insisting that workers realise the carrier needs to “settle down” and compete. Dino Rolle, the Bahamas Communications and Public Office
BTC chief: I won't succumb to dissent
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) top executive has pledged he will “not give up” in the face of union resistance as he is “convinced” the carrier is now “on the right path”.Garfield “Garry” Sinclair, BTC’s chief executive, told Tribune
Atlantis buyer must give workers 'piece of the pie'
The hotel union’s president yesterday called on any a new Atlantis owner to ensure employees “get a piece of the pie”, while voicing optimism that it would “bring stability to the property”.Expressing “no major concerns” over Brookfield Asset Managem
Monday, July 22
Conchman Committee makes donation to the Freeport Rugby Football Club
THE Freeport Rugby Football Club (FRFC) is delighted and thankful for a recent donation provided by the GBPA Conchman Committee of funding for new uniforms (kits), training equipment and tents for the new season starting in September. Having just fi
INSIGHT: Loose lips sink ships. Just what was Brent Symonette thinking?
THE resignation of the former Minister of Immigration, Financial Services, Trade and Industry, Brent Symonette, has been far from the proverbial ride off into the sunset. Instead it has been mired in the usual controversy that surrounds the questionable decision making and sloppiness under the past two years of the Minnis administration.
Wilchcombe may still run for PLP chairman
FORMER Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe said yesterday he continues to consult with the people, adding it is they who will have the final say, as he mulls over a possible run for Progressive Liberal Party chairman. He told The Tribune he would make
Atlantis still on lookout for a buyer
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar confirmed yesterday Brookfield Asset Management is again searching for a company to purchase the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, after a prospective sale fell through last year. According to the minister, “this i
Abaco murder victim is a 24-year-old father of two
THE man who was fatally shot in an Abaco shanty town has been identified as a 24-year-old father of two. On Friday, police said officers in Abaco were investigating a shooting incident that occurred shortly after 1pm. Police were alerted to gunshots
'BTC suffering because of lack of leadership'
THE Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union will continue to publicly reject the leadership of BTC CEO Garfield Sinclair until he resigns, insisting staff refuse to work with him moving forward. Speaking to The Tribune yesterday, BCPOU Pres
BTC warns staff – Time to get real: CEO tells unions to stop confrontation and accept change
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) trade unions have been warned their tactics “could be fatal” to a business that has lost $110m in revenue in less than three years.
Bran: Get 'right Atlantis buyer'
The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) ex-leader yesterday urged the government to use its influence to ensure “the right buyer” is found for Paradise Island’s Atlantis resort. While acknowledging that the Minnis administration cannot interfere in
Flowers’ fears over ‘winners tax’ impact
CRAIG Flowers, FML Group of Companies owner, sees the Minnis administration’s proposal to only tax lottery play winnings as “problematic” for his chain of web shops where revenue is largely based on the numbers game.
Mitchell’s plea: Keep same team in charge
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell yesterday made an appeal to party delegates to re-elect the PLP’s leadership team at its upcoming convention as executives craft a 10-year plan for the organisation.
Attack shadow on shark conservation
THE death of an American woman from a shark attack in Bahamian waters has presented significant challenges to conservation efforts.
WORLD VIEW: Name and blame the polluters
CLIMATE change is no longer a future event. It is here, now and real. Planet Earth, mankind’s common homeland, appears to be already locked into 1.5C of warming, once hoped to be the top limit of human-caused climate change.
EDITORIAL: Trump lights the fuse to expose to expose the U.S. racism
“Send her back, send her back.” It was the chant that brought home how disturbing the state of American politics is at present – being driven by the racism of President Donald Trump.
Scrambling to catch up on marijuana
The good Pastor Cedric Moss is nothing if not consistent. Unfortunately, he consistently views debates in the public square through the prism of extreme puritanism.
Schools need reading programmes for all
Having worked in education at several schools for over 20 years, I can say that I am thoroughly frustrated.
Police hunt after armed robberies
NEW Providence police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating the suspects responsible for two armed robberies on Saturday. In the first incident, shortly after 10pm, a male was in the area of Clifton Street off Montrose Avenue, when he was
Bahamas' Under-17 men ready for the Centrobasket Championships
FOLLOWING their women’s counterparts, the Bahamas’ under-17 men are set to compete against the top teams in the region at the 2019 Centrobasket Championships. The tournament is scheduled to be hosted July 24-28 at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in Sa
Pan Am U-20: Anderson wins bronze in 400m
DONEISHA Anderson came through with the only medal - a bronze in the women’s 400 mertres - at the XX Pan American Under-20 Track and Field Championships in San Jose, Costa Rica.Anderson was a part of the Bahamian 14-member delegation that represented
Sir Orville celebrates his 90th birthday
THE Free National Movement extended birthday greetings to former Governor General Sir Orville Turnquest on Friday. “On behalf of the party leader Dr Hubert Minnis, Deputy Leader K Peter Turnquest, Chairman Carl Culmer, MCMs, party officers and membe
'Buddy' Hield brings Hope 24 series
CHAVANO “Buddy” Hield is in New Providence to host another edition of his summer series to give back to the community and showcase the best in young Bahamian basketball talent. The Sacramento Kings guard is expected to host a series of events centre
INSIGHT: Opening the door to a better life
My father died when I was very young leaving my mother to raise four young children all on her own. By the age of 11, just like my older siblings, I too had to find work to make ends meet. I packed groceries at a nearby Winn Dixie after school and on weekends. This was a tough time for the family without my dad, but we did our best.
BTC owner proposing 25,000 homes spend
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) ultimate parent is proposing a “huge” investment to extend its fibre network past another 25,000 homes, not the buy-out of the government’s stake in the carrier. Garfield “Garry” Sinclair, BTC’s chief e
Seymour 6th in 100m hurdles, Gibson 7th in 400mH
AS they gear up for the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ National Track and field Championships this weekend in Grand Bahama, two of the island nation’s elite athletes competed in the London Grand Prix Meet on Saturday. Pedrya Seymour,
Roberts captures his first ITF Pro singles title
One week after winning his first International Tennis Federation men’s doubles title with Jody Maginley from Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamian Justin Roberts celebrated another major feather in his cap by capturing his first singles championship crown.
BTC to offer 'much more' in new VSEP
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) top executive has pledged that new voluntary separation (VSEP) packages will be “considerably more” generous than in previous downsizings.Garfield “Garry” Sinclair, BTC’s chief executive, confirmed to Tr
BAMSI no rival to Bahamian farmers
The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) is “here to support our farmers, not compete with them”, a senior executive has pledged. Dr Raveenia Roberts-Hanna, its executive director, challenged concerns that the Institute is in dir
BAMSI exhibits at Wellness Fair
The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) was one of the participants in the Central Bank of The Bahamas’ recent annual Wellness Fair. Besides providing information on the Institute and explaining all of its academic programmes, B
BTVI helps global women in IT PUSH
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) recently joined a worldwide push to encourage women to consider educational and career paths in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).A one-day Girls Power Tech conference, sponsored b
Central Bank is latest BISX broker member
The Central Bank is becoming the seventh BISX broker/dealer member in the latest step towards the eventual listing and trading of government debt via the stock exchange. The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX), in a statement, confirmed
Saturday, July 20
Man shot dead in Abaco
ABACO Police are investigating a homicide after a man was shot dead in the Mud’s Haitian community on Friday afternoon.
Friday, July 19
Mitchell: Davis asked Wilchcombe not to run for party chairman
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis has personally asked Obie Wilchcombe not to run for party chairman at the upcoming convention, Fred Mitchell said on Thursday.
'Tremendous progress' in reduction of HIV/AIDS cases
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said while the country has seen “tremendous progress” in the reduction of HIV/AIDS cases annually, there is still much more work to be done before both viruses can be completely “eliminated”.
Court hears police officer was 'outgunned'
A POLICE officer was “outgunned” when he tried to apprehend a 22-year-old man who shot at him and his partner with a high-powered assault rifle after leading them on a high-speed chase in a stolen vehicle two years ago, one of his colleagues testified on Friday.
Anatol Rodgers High School mourns deaths of three students
FAMILY, friends, classmates and staff members gathered at Anatol Rodgers High School yesterday for a prayer service to mourn the deaths of Dustin Ranger, Cornell Edwards and Leo Dorcley – after all three died in different incidents in recent weeks.
PLP, DNA: Ruling to ban Town Centre Mall discussions in Parliament unjustified
THE Progressive Liberal Party and the Democratic National Alliance say the ruling to ban discussions related to the lease of Town Centre Mall during parliamentary proceedings is unjustified.
EDITORIAL: Welcome progress - but we still must do more to fight crime
“If there is only one person injured from a shot or weapon, that is too much.”
A COMIC'S VIEW: First, Nair put his foot in his mouth - then the Office of the Prime Minister put its foot to his behind
Well, well, well...what do we have here?
Tureano Johnson claims NABF Middleweight tile
An overwhelming performance from Tureano Johnson earned the Bahamian pro boxer the NABF Middleweight title as he regained his status among the elites in the division.
FNM officials tight-lipped on remarks by Bennett Minnis
OFFICIALS were tight-lipped yesterday on whether the Minnis administration will address the viral homophobic rant levelled against Progressive Liberal Party leaders by a public official. Bennett Minnis, a Water and Sewerage Corporation board directo
Grand Bahama remembers 'a good person who had no problems with anyone'
A RELATIVE of Eudelle Bevans, who is a native of Sweeting’s Cay, said the entire community there was shocked to learn of her murder in Freeport on Wednesday.Gladstone Russell, chief councillor for Sweeting’s Cay, and cousin of the deceased, told The
HEARTBREAKING LOSS: Drowning victim was co-founder of water charity which helped millions
AN American woman who drowned while on vacation with her family in Abaco on Wednesday has been identified as Molly F Greene.
Cable: $442m debt slash top 'priority'
Cable Bahamas’ chief executive yesterday pledged that slashing the company’s $442m debt and “reinstating” shareholder dividends are among the top priorities in its new financial year. Franklyn Butler, in an interview with Tribune Business, said the
Speaker closes down Mall debate
HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie ruled yesterday that Members of Parliament will not be allowed to raise matters related to the Town Centre Mall during proceedings.
‘All he did was try to run away’
FAMILY members and loved ones of the young man shot and killed by police on John Street Wednesday afternoon are calling for justice.
Crime down but fears still remain
CRIME in the first half of the year declined by 17 percent compared to the same period last year, Police Commissioner Anthony Ferguson said at a press conference yesterday.
FNM attacks PLP over lease deal to minister’s family
THE Christie administration entered into a ten-year, multi-million-dollar lease agreement with relatives of a sitting Cabinet member, Grand Bahama Minister Dr Michael Darville, and its decision not to publicly disclose the agreements has drawn accusations of hypocrisy from Public Services Minister Brensil Rolle who now has responsibility for leases.
‘Pay up or we’ll shut you down’
DESPITE admitting the government’s first rates of taxation for number houses were “probably overly ambitious”, Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar has warned non-compliant operators behind on taxes face losing their licences.
32-year-old charged with stabbing man to death
A 32-year-old man was charged in Magistrate’s Court yesterday with stabbing another man to death during an argument last week. D’Javon Johnson, of Cox Way, was arraigned on a single murder charge stemming from Nicartha “Twin” Murphy’s death on July
Marlins excited about addition of Lewis
THE Miami Marlins are excited about the addition of Ian Lewis and the prospect of recruiting more Bahamian talent, while Lewis is intent on setting an example for local players looking to follow in his path. “It [Bahamian baseball] is slowly growing
Mario's Mixed Doubles Bowling Tourney heats up
Competition in the Mario’s Mixed Doubles Bowling Tournament continued Wednesday night at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Centre where teams of one male and one female are competing over a six-week period for a 1st place prize of $1,000, seco
Hooping by the Park Tourney starts on August 1
JABARI Wilmott liked what he saw in the first edition of his brainchild Hooping by the Park Basketball Tournament at the Freedom Park in Fox Hill. So did a number of sponsors who have all returned to support the former basketball player in this year’
Fox one step away from Major League Baseball
LUCIUS Fox has made another progression in the Tampa Bay Rays organisation, and is now just one step away from Major League Baseball.The 22-year-old shortstop was assigned to the Durham Bulls, the Rays’ AAA affiliate based in Durham, North Carolina.
THE PRESS BOX: Cousins ready to 'boogie' in LA
SINCE DeMarcus Cousins stepped foot in the league, it was obvious that he was one of the most talented big men. And his prior experience playing with Anthony Davis and Rajon Rondo in New Orleans was a major factor in him coming to the Lakers after h
Patricia 'Pattie' Johnson basketball camp a success
FOR the past 20 years, Patricia ‘Pattie’ Johnson, organiser of the Bahamas’ most outstanding female high school basketball camp, has staged her free-for-all summer basketball camp at the HO Nash Junior High School. Designed for boys and girls of all
Nigerians, Hoyas in Summer of Thunder
The inclusion of the Nigeria men’s national team and the Georgetown Hoyas, coached by Hall of Fame NBA centre Patrick Ewing, and the introduction of the ladies’ division will make the 2019 edition of the Summer of Thunder one of the most exciting to
Beware this racial inferiority complex
The Bahamian population is over 92 percent black. Within this massive racial demographic is a consciousness of our skin tone, due to what African Americans would call colorphobia, colorism and internalised white supremacy.
We need more male principals in education
How many male principals do we have in our junior and senior schools today?
Former COB employee has jail term cut by 40%
THE Court of Appeal has docked 40 percent of former College of the Bahamas employee Chimeka Gibbs’ 15-year sentence for stealing over $700,000 from the institution over a seven-year period. The appellate court said Gibbs will now serve nine years in
National lottery still an option for Bahamas
WHILE the Gaming Board is still considering options for a national lottery, a recommendation on a way forward has not yet been made, Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said yesterday. The minister said the Gaming Board was mulling over whether the
Still no movement on high profile investigations
POLICE Commissioner Anthony Ferguson yesterday confirmed several high profile investigations were still ongoing, but could not give an update on their status. The police chief told reporters at a press briefing he did not have an update to probes in
Patron tax to cover just 45% of gaming
Just 45 percent of web shop gaming activities will attract the new patron “winnings” tax, a Cabinet minister yesterday revealing that online casino spins will remain untouched “for now”. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told the
Aliv calls on BTC: 'Work with us for good of Bahamas'
Aliv yesterday called for greater co-operation from the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) in developing “a more resilient interconnection regime” following several recent service disruptions that impacted both carriers’ clients.Damian Blackbur
Both sides claim victory in Briland project battle
Both sides in the dispute over a controversial Harbour Island project were yesterday claiming victory in the first battles of a brewing legal war over efforts to overturn its permits and approvals. Benjamin Simmons, the Harbour Island hotelier who i
Canadian supplier disowns claims against Renew chief
A Canadian company has disowned claims levelled by an ex-Bahamas-based consultant against the chief executive of the former New Providence landfill manager. Machinex, which manufactured and supplied the materials recycling facility still sitting at
BTVI students to design Miss Bahamas outfits
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) recently signed an agreement with the Miss Bahamas Universe organisation for its students to create outfits for the 2019 pageant.with the Miss Bahamas Universe (MBU) organisation to have BTVI’s fa
GB law firm gains shipping honours
A Grand Bahama-based law firm has been named as Lawyers World Global’s shipping and maritime law firm of the year for The Bahamas under their global awards category. “It’s a humbling honour to be recognised globally by an organisation like Lawyers W
PwC boosting skills for Caribbean staff
The PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) affiliates in the Caribbean are launching an internal training programme to boost the skills of employees. The accounting firm’s intermediate to advanced skills-building initiative, called Digital Accelerators, will
IAN FERGUSON: The seven toxins that hurt employee output
Every employee has their Achilles heel; an area of vulnerability where there is the potential to fall. Most know what it is and how to manage it, but it is often ignored and left to eat away like a cancer. For many in the workplace, particularly in t
Thursday, July 18
Calvary Deliverance hosts annual convention for 37th year
For over three decades the Calvary Deliverance Church has been ministering the gospel and changing lives. This will be celebrated in a major way as the church gets set to recognise its 37th year with a series of special services next week.Bishop Jame
A concert of hope for the 'Divine Lady' - Friends gather as gospel singer battles serious illness
As award-winning gospel singer Vanessa Clarke battles an incurable, life-changing illness, her friends and fans are expected to come together on Saturday, July 27, for a benefit concert in her honour. The purpose of the concert is to raise funds to
Unmasking the fakers
It is high time we take off the mask of religion and hypocrisy within our churches. It is very easy to fake Christianity in front of congregants, and not be genuinely saved. We are very good in acting the part, but fail miserably in living the truth
Building the next 46 years: Part I
We have come this far by faith and by hard work on the part of those engaged in building rather than tearing down. We have had 46 years to test ourselves as an independent people or nation. Where do we go from here?Let us consider seven building bloc
I know her...
Women are perhaps the most interesting people on the planet. Their words, actions, thoughts and ideas all point to one amazing fact – God is indeed a creative God!I have come to appreciate all the qualities that make me the amazing woman I was create
FNM must remove this disgraceful man
The PLP believes that the point was properly made in The Tribune’s editorial about the conduct of Bennett Minnis, Member of the Board of the Water and Sewerage Corporation, who engaged in a homophobic, racist diatribe by voice note. In the news pages, he doubles down on his conduct and words, quite proud as he wallows in ignorance and stupidity.
EDITORIAL: Technology and transparency can help ensure justice
Two police-involved shootings in as many days again leads us to raise questions about such incidents.
STATESIDE: Radicalism and racism on the road to re-election
What are we to make of the widening tripartite dispute between US President Trump, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and “the Squad,” a group of four newly-elected Democratic congresswomen who see as part of their mandate the transformation of the Democratic Party?
Bahamian music icon gunned down in his own home
BAHAMIAN musician Sylvester “Sly” Roker was killed after a home invasion in the Turks and Caicos Islands yesterday morning.According to Royal Turks and Caicos Island Police, around 3.05am yesterday officers received reports that armed assailants ent
PMH resumes non-emergency ops
NON-EMERGENCY surgeries will resume today at Princess Margaret Hospital following a brief suspension, the Public Hospitals Authority announced yesterday. “All patients whose procedures were cancelled during the temporary suspension will be reschedul
Ministry of Tourism hit by computer virus
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar is calling for computer security at the Ministry of Tourism to be beefed up following the discovery of a virus on a ministry server on Tuesday. Mr D’Aguilar confirmed the existence of the virus to reporters yester
PLP to challenge Bennett Minnis in his own backyard
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party officials will visit Clarence Town, Long Island, after the party’s convention this month, daring Water & Sewerage board director Bennett Minnis to make good on his threat to block them from the area, PLP chairman Fred Mitchell said.
'Don't be tempted' on BTC buy-out proposal
A Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) union leader last night urged the government “not to be tempted” by any Liberty Latin America offer to acquire its stake in the company. Dino Rolle, the Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union’s (B
Legal fight begins over controversial Briland investment
Opponents of a controversial Harbour Island project have seen the Supreme Court reject their bid to include the local council as a respondent in the battle to overturn its permits and approvals.Justice Diane Stewart ruled on Monday that local hotelie
Woman’s corpse in trunk of car
A GRUESOME discovery was made early yesterday morning when the body of a woman was found in the trunk of a vehicle at a local car junkyard in Freeport.
Apology? You can put it in writing
AFTER a harsh rebuke and ridicule over his comments mocking Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and criticising Bahamian workers, Liberty Latin America’s president Balan Nair apologised and explained that his comments were taken out of context.
JURY CONVICTS ‘MAD’ FIRE MUM – Defence vows to appeal and prove she’s ‘ill not evil’
A schizophrenic woman was unanimously convicted yesterday of murdering her one-year-old daughter by dousing her with gasoline and setting her afire.
Bahamas in win column
TEAM Bahamas closed out the group stage with a win at the Caribbean’s qualifier for the Little League World Series.
‘Reno’ to face Irishman in ‘critical’ title fight
Just hours away from what he considers a career-defining fight, Tureano Johnson is primed to claim the North American Boxing Federation middleweight title.
Chipman presents petition over Quieting Titles Act
CENTREVILLE MP Reece Chipman yesterday moved a petition to review the Quieting Titles Act of 1959, which currently outlines the process to claim unused land without holding a legal title. During the request for presentations of petitions yesterday i
We will review protocols in light of shark attacks, confirms tourism minister
IN the wake of a month marred by several shark attacks - including one fatal encounter - Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday said the government will review protocols to see how it can “mitigate against” these occurrences.He also suggested
In hindsight, I was wrong to be alone with woman
CHIEF Immigration Officer Norman Bastian yesterday maintained that it was not “improper” for him to have had sex with a Jamaican woman he questionably had in his exclusive custody and who has accused him of raping her, though, he said, in hindsight h
Lack of funding: Pan Am U-20 team may not be able to travel
A LACK of funding and subsequent travel issues are once again prohibiting some of the top junior athletes in the country from participating against international competition.
Wilson’s academic, athletic career uncertain as a result of visa issues
ANOTHER Bahamian student athlete faces uncertainty in his academic and athletic career due to visa issues.
DNA repeats call for vote of no confidence
THE Democratic National Alliance held a press conference on the steps of the House of Assembly yesterday, again calling for a vote of no confidence to be moved against the Minnis administration.
Six face summer theft charges
SIX men were brought before the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday to face a laundry list of shopbreaking and stealing offences that occurred in the Eight Mile Rock and Freeport areas between June and July.
No shortage of work to be done
When I was much younger, there was a saying about “holdin’ on ter ya ma gown-tail”. In more demeaning tones, it was said “under ya ma gown-tail”. I knew what it meant then, and I wonder how many of us would understand that bit of Bahamianism today. Since this country’s Independence, nearly a half century ago, it seems that there is still a pervasive mentality of being attached to that colonial past; gown-tail.
Gaming Bill tabled with fresh tax scales
THE government’s Gaming Amendment Bill 2019 proposes a winnings tax and returns the Gaming Board to a regulatory body with power to shut web shops, search them and seize documents that may prove noncompliance with laws. According to Attorney General
Sebas hails increased Gaming Board powers
Island Luck’s principal last night hailed the Gaming Board’s enhanced regulatory powers as “great for the industry as a whole”, although he described the patron winnings tax as “a wild card”.Sebas Bastian told Tribune Business that the web shop indus
RBC alliance 'three-way win' for financial access
Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) alliance with a payment solutions provider was yesterday hailed as a “three-way win” for solving financial access woes when it rolls out across all Out Islands.Omni Financial Services executives, unveiling their pilot Lon
Sir Franklyn warns against forced BTC renationalisation
A leading businessman yesterday warned that a forced renationalisation of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) will “do more harm than good” for this nation.Sir Franklyn Wilson, pictured, who led the Christie administration’s negotiations to
Small Business Centre partners with BAIC on Crown Land access
The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) teamed with BAIC officials to demystify the process by which Bahamian entrepreneurs can lease crown land for business purposes. Debbie Strachan, the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation’s (BAIC
Bahamian firm claims regional lead in managed service sector
A Bahamian-headquartered company has been named among the world’s leading managed service providers (MSPs) on the 12th annual Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings.Cloud Carib, in a statement issued yesterday, said it had been rated above all other provid
KPMG hires digital and it team leader
KPMG (Bahamas) has announced the appointment of Nico Maritz as a director in its advisory services team.He will be responsible for leading KPMG’s digital and IT advisory practices, bringing to bear technology skills from more than 22 years’ experienc
ART OF GRAPHIX: Design skills to keep you on cutting edge
The graphic design industry is always changing and evolving as new technology arrives. in recent decades, design has progressed from hand drawings to computerised artificial intelligence. Not too many years ago, designers needed to be able to code to
Wednesday, July 17
American woman believed to have drowned in Abaco
Police in Abaco are investigating an alleged drowning that occurred on Wednesday.
Suspect dies after officers open fire
POLICE in New Providence are investigating an officer-involved shooting Wednesday that left a man dead. This incident is the second police involved shooting in as many days.
EDITORIAL: No place for water board member’s disgusting rant
IT is less than a week since Bahamas Independence celebrations – yet it already seems forever ago that people were calling for unity and an end to political divisiveness.
THE ALICIA WALLACE COLUMN: A whole new world and we don’t look anywhere near ready
The commitment has been made to ban single-use plastic in The Bahamas by next year. There have been a few mentions in the media since 2018, but I have not seen much happening to prepare the public for the changes to come.
McAlpine calls on Minnis to explain his telephone call with Symonette
PINERIDGE MP Frederick McAlpine yesterday called on Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to account for his personal phone call with former Cabinet Minister Brent Symonette regarding the government leasing a portion of Town Centre Mall, insisting the matt
New warning issued over 'aggressive bees'
A WARNING was issued yesterday advising Freeport residents to be aware of “aggressive bees” in the area of Wellington Drive and Ponce de Leon.Police were called to the area around 9am yesterday after a beehive was disturbed by workmen at Sanitation S
UPDATED: Body of woman found in car in Grand Bahama
Police are investigating after the body of a woman with stab wounds was found in a car in Grand Bahama.
American leaves hospital after attack by reef shark
NEARLY a month after being bitten by a shark while in the waters off Waderick Wells Cay, 50-year-old American Salvador Ruiz has been discharged from a Florida hospital.
Govt urged: Reclaim BTC for Bahamians
Trade union leaders yesterday urged the government “to part ways” with the Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) controlling owner after its top executive “insulted” the company’s workforce. Bernard Evans, the National Congress of Trade Unions
Bahamian musician Sly Roker ‘killed in Turks and Caicos’
BAHAMIAN musician Sly Roker was reportedly killed in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Wednesday morning.
OUT OF ORDER: PM’s office blasts Jamaican CEO on BTC remarks
IN an extraordinary statement, the Office of the Prime Minister blasted the head of BTC’s parent company yesterday for “distasteful” and “insulting” comments mocking Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and criticising BTC.
FNM official stands by his foul PLP rant
WATER and Sewerage Corporation board director Bennett Minnis yesterday doubled down on his viral homophobic rant against the leadership of the Progressive Liberal Party.
Man’s remains found in fire debris
POLICE found human remains, burnt beyond recognition, in a house that was extensively damaged in a structural fire yesterday morning.
Hospital sabotage in hands of police
AS Princess Margaret Hospital grapples with rescheduling more than 50 non-emergency surgeries that were cancelled over sabotage suspicions connected to the facility’s chilling system, officials plan to follow through with prosecution if recommended by police.
American loses arm in boating accident
THE American man who was recently injured in a boating accident in Exuma has lost his arm, Superintendent Shanta Knowles confirmed yesterday.
Judge offers to recuse herself in rape case
AN attorney said yesterday he will consider a judge’s offer to recuse herself from presiding over a Jamaican woman’s lawsuit against the government over allegations she was raped by a senior immigration officer while in his custody five years ago.The
'Pattie' Johnson basketball camp free-for-all at HO Nash
FOR the past 20 years, Patricia ‘Pattie’ Johnson, the country’s most outstanding female high school basketball camp, has staged her free-for-all summer basketball camp at the HO Nash Junior High School. Designed for boys and girls of all high school
12-man water polo team named
BAHAMAS Aquatics has selected a 12-member team to represent the Bahamas at the Union Americana De Natacio (UANA) IV Pan American Youth Men’s and Women’s Water Polo 17-and-under Championships, scheduled for the National Aquatic Centre in Balmain, Couv
Discount for runners who register by midnight Sunday
WITH a little more prize money to offer, the Bahamas Roadmasters Running Club is hoping that they can attract more international competitors to participate in their signature 7th annual Bahamas Half, 10K, 5K, 3K and Half marathon relay on Sunday, Nov
Bahamas suffer 6-0 loss to Cuba in Little League tourney
The Junior Baseball League of Nassau team representing the Bahamas at the 2019 Caribbean Zone Little League Tournament in Willemstad, Curacao, suffered a heartbreaking 6-0 loss to Cuba yesterday. Unfortunately, the JBLN players didn’t have an answer
TECH TALK
• Residents in Providence, Rhode Island, are paying more for a ride on the city’s popular electric bikes. JUMP, an Uber-owned company, announced a change in its pricing model Monday.
5 Moon-landing innovations that changed life on Earth
Much of the technology common in daily life today originates from the drive to put a human being on the Moon. This effort reached its pinnacle when Neil Armstrong stepped off the Eagle landing module onto the lunar surface 50 years ago.
Poor leadership puts Bank of Bahamas on the critical list
I am always saddened and angered when I think, hear, or talk about our beloved Bank of Bahamas (BOB). It has become the self-inflicted scorned legacy of the last three administrations; inclusive of the present regime – while the bank continues on life support.
People should be free to march
ONE word…freedom. Is the Bahamas not a free country? Whether you agree or disagree with people’s choices, all of us living in this country have the right to free speech and free expression.
Time to end the suffering at Potter's Cay
This is a plea for the saving of the economic lives of the Bahamian Potters Cay licensed businesses, that sell conch salad, food, and drinks to many visitors and locals alike.
Extra $15m for clinic upgrades, says Sands
NEARLY $15m has been earmarked for South Beach Health Centre and Elizabeth Estates Clinic to upgrade both facilities for emergency care, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday. It is hoped that, once completed, the improved facilities will pl
DNA calls for vote of no confidence over post office relocation
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance leader Arinthia Komolafe has called on the Official Opposition to put forward a motion for a vote of no confidence in the government over recent revelations regarding the General Post Office’s relocation to Town Centre Ma
Sixth suicide highlights mental health challenges
IN the wake of the sixth suspected suicide of the year, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said the challenges surrounding mental health and depression is “very real”. Speaking to reporters at Cabinet, Dr Sands said Bahamians don’t take suicide seriousl
Abaco port inspection failure 'not an option'
An Abaco MP last night voiced optimism that the island’s main port will pass its “make or break” inspection today, and added that failure “is quite simply not an option”.James Albury, pictured, who is also the Abaco parliamentary secretary in the Pri
Miller to oversee day-to-day operation of six sports at the Pan Am Games
WHEN the XVIII Pan American Games is held in Lima, Peru from July 26 to August 11, there will be at least one Bahamian making a significant contribution to its success behind the scene. Wellington Miller, the immediate past president of the Bahamas
Tourism chief blasts drive operator's 'rant'
The Tourism Development Corporation’s chair has blasted a dive operator’s “self-indulgent diatribe” over efforts to protect The Bahamas from a “vicious onslaught” over recent shark attacks.Michael Scott told Tribune Business that he took “a very nega
Multi-billion pension deficit 'high priority, not top' for govt
The deputy prime minister says resolving the government’s own looming multi-billion dollar pension crisis “is certainly a high priority but not top of the list”.KP Turnquest, in a recent interview with Tribune Business, said the Minnis administration
Goombay strikes Harbour Island
Residents and visitors to Harbour Island were able to celebrate all things Bahamian at the Ministry of Tourism’s annual Goombay Summer Festival from July 5-7. Working with industry partners in Long Island to extend festivities that began with the Am
PM promises on small business capital access
The prime minister has pledged the government’s commitment to ensuring smaller companies have access to capital as a means of economic empowerment.Addressing the Former Hospitality Professionals Awards Banquet, which honoured tourism pioneers for the
Bahamian to address safe gaming seminar
A Bahamian compliance professional is joining the speaker line-up for the 33rd National Conference on Gambling Addiction and Responsible Gambling. Cheryl Bazard, pictured , principal of Bazard and Company, will address the premier educational and ne
Tuesday, July 16
Man injured by police in shoot out
A MAN is in hospital after he was wounded by police during a shoot out following a car chase that ended in the Freeman Subdivision.
EDITORIAL: Abaco deserves better than to have its future in the balance
Tomorrow, Abaco faces an inspection that is more than “make or break” for its port – a failure would have a knock-on effect for the whole island.
FACE TO FACE: A legend born out of a broken heart
In the late 1990s, “Matters of the Heart” was such a popular radio programme it became a household name.
Ex-Atlantis worker fined for stealing from tourists when he was drunk
A FORMER Atlantis employee was fined over $1,000 yesterday for stealing $3,000 worth of merchandise from tourists at the Paradise Island resort while he was drunk.
Reparations fight needs to be global movement, says Bethel
THE fight for reparations for people of African descent has to be a large enough “global movement” to “force the hands of Western countries”, according to Attorney General Carl Bethel.In an interview with The Tribune, Mr Bethel spoke of his support o
'The PHA would not have issued a statement about possible sabotage if it didn't have clear and (irrefutable) evidence'
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands is maintaining that the Public Hospitals Authority would not have issued a statement about a suspected sabotage attack unless it had “clear” and “irrefutable” evidence to support this claim. Dr Sands made these comment
Post Office exposure '$17m and something'
The government’s first Post Office partner yesterday warned that taxpayers may be exposed to a “$17m something claim” after a proposed settlement failed to proceed at the last minute. Scott Godet, who agreed a public-private partnership (PPP) with t
Post office deal ‘all above board’
A KEY Cabinet minister yesterday told The Tribune the government followed every protocol in leasing the Town Centre Mall from a sitting Cabinet minister to relocate the General Post Office.
Marsh Harbour ‘closure’ crisis
Abaco's main shipping port faces a 'make or break' inspection tomorrow that could result in its closure and derail the island's economy by halting virtually all cargo trade with the US.
New online battle to stop Disney cruise plan
THE Waterkeeper Alliance has partnered with leading environmental groups in the country to launch a digital campaign in protest of Disney’s plans to construct a cruise ship port in South Eleuthera.
Davis tells PLP - don’t challenge leadership
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis wants no challenges to his leadership team at the upcoming PLP convention, he has told party members.
New rules to follow shark attacks
CONCERN that the Bahamas’ tourism market could suffer a blow after a fatal shark attack last month has created the impetus for officials to consider a number of measures to protect snorkellers.
Sixth annual Miracle Treat Day to support children with sickle cell disease
Dairy Queen is calling on all to help make miracles for children with sickle cell disease. On Thursday, July 25, Miracle Treat Day 2019, DQ will donate $2 from every Blizzard treat sold to the Bahamas Sickle Cell Association.
Sarkis urges dismissal of 'moot' CCA oppression
Sarkis Izmirlian, pictured, yesterday urged that the “shareholder oppression” claim against him by Baha Mar’s main contractor be dismissed because it is “moot” and can only be heard in The Bahamas.The latest legal filings by Baha Mar’s original devel
Police to investigate suspected teen suicide
POLICE are investigating the alleged suicide of a teenage boy who was found hanged in a closet on Sunday afternoon. Police said shortly after 5pm, police officers were called to a home on Faith Avenue north of Carmichael Road, where a male was disco
Victim may be an innocent bystander caught in crossfire
POLICE suspect a man who was shot dead on Sunday morning in Freeport was an innocent bystander caught in gunfire from two armed men who had just robbed a nearby nightspot.Although identification is being withheld pending notification of next of kin,
Crown fails to appear again in case regarding Muslim officer
THE Crown has failed to appear on three occasions to represent the state in a lawsuit against former Commissioner of Police Ellison Greenslade for firing a police constable because of his unwillingness to compromise a key component of his Muslim fait
American injures hand in boating accident
EXUMA police are investigating a boating accident that left an American man in hospital on Sunday. Shortly before 5pm, a tour boat was sailing in Elizabeth Harbour, George Town when the captain felt something hit the rear of the boat. He and others
Arrests as police crack major criminal GB gang
GRAND Bahama police have cracked down on a major stealing ring in Freeport and Eight Mile Rock, arresting several persons and recovering thousands of dollars worth of stolen items and property.
Sorry to see you go, Mr Symonette
Dear Mr Brent Symonette . . .
Deep down, we are troubled
Do we today really have National Pride or is it just a thing for the next day or so? We are asked to don our Gold-Turquoise and Black as if that means anything except to the shop selling the gear because I don’t think it does.
Electioneering already . . .
Wow it seems pre-election campaigning has already started!
Pride parade would be an audacious move
Pride Bahamas spokeswoman Alexus D’Marco obviously understands the provisions in the constitution which allows for the freedom of expression and the freedom of movement and assembly for all citizens, although I don’t believe the framers of the constitution had in mind Bahamian homosexuals marching though the streets of Nassau.
LIFE LINES: Change - a challenge or a threat?
Change of any kind is an adventure. The question is how you view this challenge? Is your attitude towards it positive, to be anticipated with excitement and interest as to the outcome or does it seem frightening and uncomfortable? The answer for most
Bahamas face Cuba today in Caribbean qualifier
TEAM Bahamas is still in contention among the top youth baseball competition in the region in a bid to become the Caribbean’s qualifier for the Little League World Series.The under-12 team from the Junior Baseball League of Nassau (JBLN) is 2-1 thus
Miss Teen Regency wants more Bahamians to say 'Hola!'
Kayla Culmer, the newly crowned Miss Teen Regency Bahamas, would like to see more Bahamians become fluent in Spanish. The 15-year-old At Anne’s student has chosen “Making Spanish Aware to Monolingual People Around the World” for her platform during
Jones awarded the Eastern Conference Player of Week for 4th time this season
JONQUEL Jones continues to make history and receive recognition for her elite play in the WNBA this season.Jones was awarded WNBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week for the fourth time this season. She averaged 16.7 points and 9.3 rebounds per gam
Travis Munnings to begin pro basketball career in France
TRAVIS Munnings is set to begin his pro basketball career in France.The former ULM Warhawk reached an agreement with ADA Blois Basket 41 of the France - ProB League yesterday.Blois finished last season ranked No.7 in the standings and were eliminated
Small island girl follows big dreams
The best thing about running her own business, says Alexis Hudson, is that there is no one to boss her around. She is fully independent and can pursue whatever ideas she has for her calligraphy business, Chalked By Alexis.“I’m my own boss. I can work
Roberts and Maginley win title
The third time appearance in the reunion of long-time close friends Bahamian Justin Roberts and Antigua & Barbuda’s Jody Maginley turned out to be the charm as they teamed up to win their first International Tennis Federation men’s doubles crown.
Serena Brown to transfer from Aggies to Hawkeyes this fall
SERENA Brown will make the transition from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) to the Big 10 for the next step in her collegiate career.
Ready to marry... but is your chosen one ‘wife material’?
With all the chaos in many marriages today, you must wonder if men are giving any thought at all to the essential characteristics of a good wife.
New innovative treatment for overactive bladder
Overactive bladder and urinary incontinence/leak affects thousands of Bahamian men, women and children.
Raise a cup to good health
Rediscovering traditional fruit teas
Looking around in her community, Degria Duncombe became alarmed at the increasing number young Bahamians who are battling health issues like high blood pressure, constipation and other conditions.
BOB: $10m claims were ‘abandoned’ by default pursuers
Bank of The Bahamas has accused companies jointly owned by an ex-Cabinet minister’s family trust of “already abandoning” claims worth $10m in their bid to enforce a default judgment.
Bahamas seeking tourism boost via Canada air deal
The Bahamas is hoping its just-signed air transport agreement with Canada will boost tourist arrivals from that nation by encouraging increased airlift from its major cities. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, said the agreement w
Monday, July 15
Plane crash lands at Exuma airport
THE pilot of a charter flight was forced to return to mainland Exuma Monday morning after the aircraft’s landing gear failed to open on arrival at Staniel Cay, resulting in a crash landing at the airport in Moss Town.
INSIGHT: We’re being taken for fools but our patience is going to run out
THE Bahamas is not a real place. Perhaps that mantra is never more fitting than when a country that pays exorbitant fees for mysteriously concocted electricity bills has so often been in smouldering darkness.
Grand Lucayan LOI in 30-day extension
The government has extended the Letter of Intent (LOI) for the Grand Lucayan’s purchase by 30 days as ITM and Royal Caribbean seek to “tie down” their airlift and sealift plans. Well-placed Tribune Business sources confirmed last week that the LOI,
BPL blackout - the misery drags on
Load shedding is expected to continue in parts of New Providence this week as demand for electricity peaks, a Bahamas Power and Light spokesperson confirmed yesterday.
Union fury over PMH sabotage claim
PRINCESS Margaret Hospital has suspended non-emergency surgeries this week while it investigates a suspected sabotage attack.
21 years for people smuggler
A JAMAICAN man - who claims that he was born in The Bahamas and was being denied entry into the country after being deemed an “undesirable” - has been sentenced to more than two decades in a US prison for running a human smuggling operation.
Post office deal ‘wrapped in lies’
OPPOSITION leader Philip “Brave” Davis has called for Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ resignation insisting his administration’s handling of the General Post Office’s move to the Town Centre Mall has been overshadowed by falsehoods.
13 suspected human and drug smugglers caught after joint operation
THIRTEEN suspected human and drug smugglers were apprehended on Friday off West End, Grand Bahama in a joint Royal Bahamas Defence Force and Bahamas Immigration Department operation. One Bahamian and 12 nationals from the Caribbean, South America, a
EDITORIAL: Time for action on BPL outages
If we were to invite readers to put their hands in the air if they were surprised to learn that there will be more load shedding this week, we doubt we would see many hands raised.
Thomas strikes out eight in pitcher's duel
TAHNAJ Thomas had his second consecutive career high outing in as many appearances for the Bristol Pirates against the Pulaski Yankees. The 20-year-old, 6’4” right hander struck out eight batters in a pitcher’s duel, but the Pirates suffered a 2-0 l
Rolle, Saunders making an impact in pro baseball
JAMES Rolle and Warren Saunders have had an immediate impact on their respective clubs in their introduction to pro baseball. Rolle, 17, made his debut with the Baltimore Orioles in the Dominican Summer League while Saunders made his first appearanc
It's time we were more honest about marijuana
Nowadays, almost daily, the marijuana debate is in the news, and quite often it makes headline news.
Pride march is a horrible idea
I just read in today’s edition of your newspaper, that the Bahamas’ very own LGBTI community is actually planning to stage a pride parade, sometime next year. Personally, I think this is an unbelievably bad, if not, horrible idea that will undoubtedly lead to problems, including possible violence.
POLICE ADVICE: Spot signs of abuse to protect children
Abusive behaviour comes in many forms, but the common denominator is the emotional effect on the child. Whether the abuse is a slap, a harsh comment, silence, or not knowing if there will be dinner on the table, the end result is a child that feels unsafe, uncared for and alone.
INSIGHT: Lessons are being learned from aviation tragedies
The past year and a half has certainly been active with aircraft accidents impacting the sovereign waters of The Bahamas. One week ago, the most recent of such aircraft accidents in Bahamian waters involved an AugustaWestland AW139 helicopter which impacted waters off of Abaco island. Tragically, there were no survivors among the passengers, one of whom was billionaire Chris Cline.
WORLD VIEW – The new burden of diplomacy: the enemy within
THE mess resulting from reports that the British Ambassador to the United States, Sir Kim Darroch made about President Donald Trump and his administration underscore the dangers of leaking confidential government documents.
Freeport man charged with two counts of attempted murder
A FREEPORT man on Friday was charged with two counts of attempted murder. Edvardo Evans, 33, of Bruce Avenue, appeared in court before Magistrate Charlton Smith where it alleged that on Sunday, July 7 at Freeport, he, being concerned with others, at
New Providence hit by three armed robberies
THREE armed robberies took place within a 12-hour period in New Providence on Saturday, according to police reports. One of the victims was a woman in her late 50s who was robbed while cleaning her house. Another victim was beaten by two men during
Day of the Seafarer
AS part of Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to inspire the next generation of maritime professionals, Disney Dream shipboard officers hosted a group of students onboard from the Bahamas Maritime Cadet Corps (BMCC) while the ship was docked in Nassau.T
'Paradigm shift' for technology hub, logistics
A drone operator yesterday said its multi-million dollar investment will produce both “a paradigm shift in Bahamian logistics” and a much-needed boost for the Grand Bahama technology hub. Arthur Frisch, co-founder of Hogfish Ventures, told Tribune B
Contract work fear for middle classes
A trade union leader has voiced fears that the increasing use of contract workers by Bahamian employers threatens to further “erode” an already-shrinking middle class. Bernard Evans, the National Congress of Trade Unions (NCTU) president, told Tribu
Dive operators 'thrown under bus' on sharks
The principal of Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas yesterday said the industry had been “thrown under the bus” by the government’s response to recent shark-related incidents. Stuart Cove, revealing that business levels had returned to normal “within a week
Winterbotham continues 'strong' BISX listing year
A Bahamian fund administrator has continued its “strong year” of sponsoring BISX listings by adding another to the exchange’s roster. The Winterbotham Trust Company also acts as administrator for World Oil System Fund, which has completed the listin
Resolve Out Island needs before WTO
This is an assessment of how The Bahamas’ renewed efforts to become a full World Trade Organisation (WTO) could impact the Family Islands, especially tourism, construction and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While the WTO’s professed agen
Atlantis, PI to host jet ski championship
Atlantis will serve as the host hotel for a three-day championship event this November that marks the climax of an international jet ski race series.Paradise Island will be the venue for the P1 AquaX Bahamas World Championship, set for November 8-10,
Sunday, July 14
Police investigate armed robbery and homicide on Grand Bahama
Police in Grand Bahama are investigating an armed robbery and a homicide that happened within half an hour of each other early on Sunday.
Radio stations to go silent for Mdeez and others lost to violence
RADIO stations across the country will go silent for 10 to 15 minutes Monday in tribute to slain musical artist Devon “Mdeez” Knight and others who have lost their lives to violence.
Friday, July 12
Mother charged with assault, son with causing harm
A MOTHER and her minor son were arraigned on Friday in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court – one for assault and the other for causing harm.
PMH suspends non-emergency surgeries during investigation into possible sabotage
THE Princess Margaret Hospital is suspending non-emergency surgeries while it investigates possible sabotage at the hospital.
Creating solutions for plastic pollution
IN an effort to create solutions for plastic pollution, the Bahamas Plastic Movement (BPM) held its 6th Plastic Pollution Education and Ocean Conservation Camp at the Eleuthera Arts & Cultural Centre from June 22-28th.
Ministry 'not aware of additional funding requests for water polo team'
THE Ministry of Youth Sports and Culture has said it is not aware of any requests for additional funding from the Bahamas Aquatics Federation on behalf of the Bahamas Water Polo team.
Ricardo Smith likely to challenge Chester Cooper for PLP deputy leader post
RICARDO Smith is gearing up to challenge Chester Cooper for deputy leader of the Progressive Liberal Party yet again.
Power outages 'putting care home patients at risk'
CARETAKERS throughout New Providence say the constant power outages in the capital are putting the health of their elderly patients at risk.
Miller-Uibo, Gardiner win in Diamond League
Bahamian double sprint national record holders Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner made their 2019 Diamond League Circuit debuts in grand style at the Herculis EBS in Monaco on Friday.
EDITORIAL: Did the government mislead over building decision?
The decision to relocate the Post Office to Town Centre Mall has been thrown into the spotlight in the past week.
Independence Day joy for mothers
THE mothers of the first boy and girl born on July 10 were yesterday presented with gifts as part of Princess Margaret Hospital’s annual Independence Day donation presentation. Symphany Charlton, 24, and Shonell Hepburn, 37, said they were surprised
'Tourists take risks when they go to swim with wild animals'
A TOUR boat operator said yesterday tourists and visitors assume risk when they snorkel, adding despite increased shark incidents the industry will survive.As he agreed it should be mandatory that every boat has basic medical equipment and medication
Chris Brown takes on head coach role at Clayton State University
CHRIS 'Fireman' Brown has been promoted to head coach of the Clayton State University Lakers men's and women's track and field programmes after just one year as assistant coach.
'Skeleton in closet' fear over debt fall
A governance reformer yesterday expressed fears that “a skeleton in the closet” could yet derail the government’s achievement of the first quarterly national debt reduction for years. Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (ORG)
UPDATED: Mother of child found walking on Haven Road has been located
Police are reporting that the mother of the little girl who was found walking on Haven Road on Friday morning has been located.
Second twin dies in street knife fight
AS Curtis Murphy Jr held his stabbed and bloodied younger brother Nicartha in his arms at the parking lot of Smith’s Motel on Tuesday night, he clung to hope the 32-year-old father would live to see another day.
Fire death mother ‘was ill, not evil’
THE lawyer for Philippa Marshall, the woman accused of murdering her daughter by setting her on fire in December 2017, yesterday submitted that the accused was “not in her right frame of mind” when the offence took place and therefore called for the nine-woman jury to find her not guilty by reason of insanity.
Engineer hired to advise on Post Office HQ: Town Centre Mall was wrong choice
THE Minnis administration’s rationale in a resolution last year for abandoning the Phil’s Food Store building as the site of the General Post Office was not supported by the assessment of independent engineers contracted to evaluate the building.
New govt office in Bimini to be built
THE National Insurance Board has advised that the project to construct a new government office complex in Alice Town, Bimini is being restarted with the signing of the final contract on June 11 with Pyramid Construction.
Joshua Turnquest awarded Male Athlete of Year
JUNIOR Joshua Turnquest has been chosen as the 2018-19 River States Conference Male Athlete of the Year. The 6-foot, 2-inch graduate of CV Bethel Senior High led the voting of the athletic directors in the league. As a junior, Turnquest was an NAIA
Focus on family for our future
As I read about crime in our newspapers, I think and ask myself, “What are the answers to our social problems, crime, and the pressures on us from the outside? How do we solve them?” I realise that so much is clear from God’s word that will guide us back to a safer, more caring people, but I wonder why we as a people can’t see it or why do we ignore it? It is as if we are blind to the truth of what transforms lives and or to what works.
The value of a good education
We are living in the fourth industrial revolution and human beings without technological skills, which a good education provides, will be at the bottom of the social hierarchy. A long term deterrent to a life of crime is a good education.
Tennis ace Major Jr clinches 3rd win in Florida
Kevin Major Jr has clinched his third singles victory at the USTA Broward Summer Men’s Open in Coral Springs, Florida.On Tuesday, 24-year-old Major won the title over Ronald Hohmann 4-2, 4-1 in a shortened final set due to time constraints.“This was
DIANE PHILLIPS: Brent’s departure exposes that bizarre Bahamian custom - resentment of success
It’s hard to get over the past. So when a white man who happens to be wealthy decides to offer himself for public service in a country where white people, possibly his own ancestors, once had slaves and colonial rule led to what some call the plantation economy, the past stomps on the present. In your face, present. It brazenly paints current perception with a patina of ugly reflection.
Bahamas 6th overall
FOR the second consecutive year, team Bahamas finished sixth at the FIBA Centrobasket Under-17 Championships for Women.The Bahamas closed out the tournament with a 73-50 loss to Costa Rica yesterday at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, Puert
Nottage takes over AS national risk chief
DR Cassandra Nottage has been appointed to the post of national identified risk framework coordinator, according to a press release from the Office of the Attorney General.
GB freight company working to keep its business running
BOB Clutter, co-owner of GB Express, is “seriously considering” continuing its air-cargo express service in Freeport following recent discussions with the government about air freight customs procedures that would relieve some costs for air couriers.
PLP quick to attack signs of progress says FNM
THE Free National Movement has accused Progressive Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis of launching an “unprecedented campaign to attack any and all signs of progress in the country,” after Mr Davis said last week the ShotSpotter technology was
'We need people in politics who can contribute'
SENATE president Katherine Smith says while she supports having more women enter politics, having people who are qualified to run who can make a contribution to the growth and development of the country is greatly needed.Her comments came during an i
Colebrooke qualifies for IAAF Worlds
THIS was a breakout year for sprinter Samson Colebrooke and nobody was more surprised by his accomplishments than his Bahamian coach Norbert Elliott at Purdue University. Colebrooke’s time of 10.01 seconds in a photo finish for the silver behind gol
Jonquel selected as a starter for the WNBA All-Star game
JONQUEL Jones, enjoying one of her best professional basketball seasons, has been selected as a starter for the Women’s National Basketball Association’s AT&T WNBA All-Star 2019.
DPM: Something must be done over pensions
The Bahamas’ retirement funding crisis must be given “focus”, the deputy prime minister agreed yesterday, given the ever-increasing drain it threatens to impose on the nation’s resources.KP Turnquest, responding after the Central Bank’s latest privat
Man jailed and fined over drugs possession
A man convicted of possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply was sentenced to one year in prison and fined $2,000 by a Freeport Magistrate on Friday.
Hoop moves: 'Kino' to new club, Smith signs in France, Coleby re-signs in Japan
SEVERAL Bahamian pro basketball players inked new deals with their respective clubs this offseason.Jaraun “Kino” Burrows will move to a new club in France, while Kentwan Smith signs in France for the first time and Kadeem Coleby re-signs for another
'Well beyond time': Realty VAT paid online this year
The Ministry of Finance’s top official yesterday pledged that VAT on real estate sales will be payable online during this fiscal year, adding: “It’s well beyond time to go digital.” Marlon Johnson, acting financial secretary, told Tribune Business t
Domestic banks in 10% cost increase
Domestic banks and trust companies endured a near-ten percent operating cost increase in 2018 amid continued expense and regulatory pressures on the wider financial services industry. The Central Bank’s survey of the sector’s 2018 contribution to Ba
Re-trial over Rum Cay restaurant demolition
The dispute over a Rum Cay restaurant’s demolition has been sent back to the Supreme Court for re-trial even though its majority owner may have “a bogus claim to ownership of the land”. The Court of Appeal, in a unanimous verdict delivered this week
ALBANIA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY CELEBRATES MILESTONE- Emphasises importance of early faith-based education -
This year’s graduation at the Albania Christian Academy Pre-school was a special one, as the institution is celebrating its 25th anniversary of serving the public by providing Christian-minded early education.The pre-school first opened its doors and
Take aviation accident probe improvements to next level
The past 18 months has certainly been active for aircraft accidents within the sovereign waters of The Bahamas. The most recent tragedy occurred one week ago involving an AugustaWestland AW139 helicopter, which crashed while flying from Abaco to Flor
Bishop Laish Boyd returns to Holy Cross
Anglican Bishop Laish Boyd recently visited the church he used to lead for many years to join its members in celebrating its Feast of Dedication and its 41st anniversary. Bishop Boyd led the service and expressed joy at the renovations that have take
The sum of all fears
We all have phobias and are afraid of different things. Fear, in the Bible, is presented as a spirit. 2 Timothy 1:7 says: “For God had not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”What voice is whispering in your e
Making the most of the next 46 years
There is so much that makes us who we are, but as we move toward the next stage of national maturity, let us think about our personal contributions to this growth, focus on our strengths and develop them as much as possible. If we all pool these stre
Thursday, July 11
One man killed, another injured after stabbing
One man is dead and another is in hospital after they stabbed each other on Wednesday night.
BUSINESS BITES: Time to pull the plug on Bahamasair
Efficient reception of international air travellers is clearly key to our tourism and is well performed by our Lynden Pindling International Airport, a government-owned public utility not committed to the profits of an investor-owned enterprise.
Smith leads calls to end 'archaic' criminal libel laws
RIGHTS Bahamas yesterday renewed calls for an end to archaic criminal libel laws after social media commentator Gorman Bannister was remanded to prison over the offence.Bannister was arraigned before Senior Magistrate Derrence Rolle-Davis over allega
STATESIDE: Hail to the Chief (well, not from everybody)
Two nations that are linked by several factors celebrated their independence days last week, one day apart. A comparison of the two is intriguing.
Architects: Millions lost by 'unscrupulous' practices
Architects have warned the government it is “losing millions of dollars” annually in VAT and other taxes through “unscrupulous” practices by consultants working on construction projects. The Institute of Bahamian Architects (IBA), in a February 2019
Honours to creators of flag and anthem
TIMOTHY Gibson, the late composer of The Bahamas’ national anthem, and Reverend Dr Hervis Bain, the man who designed the nation’s flag,
Fire report delay - heads must roll
OPPOSITION leader Philip Davis yesterday called for the immediate release of the report detailing the fires that crippled infrastructure at Bahamas Power and Light’s Clifton Pier Power Plant last year.
BPL deputy chairman to sue Eyewitness News
BAHAMAS Power and Light deputy chairman Stephen Holowesko has refuted media reports that his family’s company funded the purchase of seven new generators. In a statement issued yesterday, Mr Holowesko threatened legal action against the news outlet which aired the claims this week.
US family hits out over shark death
THE family of the American woman killed in a shark attack while swimming off Rose Island in June has claimed the tour company had no basic medical supplies and did nothing to attempt to save the college student’s life.
EDITORIAL: Think what we can achieve when we lift up our heads together
SOMETIMES life in The Bahamas seems to be always troubled by divisions.
FIBA U-17 Centrobasket: Bahamas rout Barbados 83-41
AFTER a heartbreaking loss to eliminate them from medal contention, Team Bahamas responded yesterday with their most lopsided win of the tournament.
Miller-Uibo, Gardiner win
While Shaunae Miller-Uibo, with her silver hairstyle, inked her name on another meet record in producing a season’s best performance, Steven Gardiner fell shy of eclipsing his own mark as they were both victorious in their respective events in Szekesfehervar, Hungary.
‘Tax on society’: 75% of workers have no pension
Bahamians face paying “another tax on society” to support the near-75 percent of workers not covered by an employer-sponsored pension plan, a leading investment banker has warned.
Desmond Bannister's mother dies, aged 82
THE Free National Movement offered condolences to Minister of Works Desmond Bannister yesterday on the death of his 82-year-old mother Joyce. “On behalf of the leader, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, Deputy Leader K Peter Turnquest, Chairman Carl C
The same old broken cars
National Pride Day Rawson Square - have to ask if the Police Summer School did not bus hundreds of children there how many children would have turned up? I suggest few.
Idea is dead on arrival
Alfred Sears’ proposal would seem to be an attempt to support possibly a potential challenge to the leadership in the PLP of Brave Davis.
What about the moral garbage from carnival?
During his contribution to the recent budget debate, Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis announced that the government will no longer be cleaning up garbage left over from carnival. That is the right decision, and I commend the Prime Minister and his government for making it.
Why Eyewitness News must be held to account for its mistakes
After erroneously accusing the BPL Board and Stephen Holowesko, the Deputy Chairman of the company’s Board, of a conflict of interest on the news programme Beyond the Headlines, Clint Watson of Eyewitness News went on TV the following evening to apologise to BPL and to Mr Holowesko.
Citibank to head BPL refinancing of up to $550m
Citibank has been selected as the lead adviser for the $450m-$550m mega financial restructuring of Bahamas Power & Light (BPL), Tribune Business has been informed.
'Big jump' over VAT realty submissions
The government’s requirement that all documents for “stamping” on New Providence be submitted via e-mail from August 1 was yesterday described as “a big jump” by practitioners. Attorneys, speaking on condition of anonymity, questioned whether 20 day
National debt in $30m fall
The Bahamas’ national debt has seen its first quarterly decline for years as it fell by just over $30m during the three-months to end-March 2019 thanks to a small budget surplus. The Central Bank’s quarterly review for the period, published this wee
Company removes 'boat load of harbour garbage'
A Bahamian mosquito control firm has cleaned up Nassau Harbour by removing a “boat load of garbage” from the water and bushes along the western Paradise Island shoreline. Bahamas Mosquito Fogging Company collected plastic, styrofoam, tyres, nets, ro
Ex-Central Bank executive to head financial crime fight
A former Central Bank executive has been confirmed as The Bahamas’ National Identified Risk Framework Coordinator (NIRFC) with responsibility for leading the fight against financial crime.Dr Cassandra Nottage has more than 40 years’ experience in ant
40 Cable staff gain leadership awards
More than 40 supervisors and high performers at Cable Bahamas have graduated from with college-level certificates in leadership from the National Cable Television Institute (NCTI). The BISX-listed communications provider’s ‘REV University’, its educ
Minister urges closer links for education and industry
A Cabinet minister has called for even closer collaboration between industry and educators to help develop a new generation of Bahamian entrepreneurs.Addressing teachers attending the 16th Education Industry Internship Programme, hosted by the Bahama
BISX moves closer to 100 fund listings
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) has added seven new investment fund listings as it targets passing the 100-listing mark for the category this year.The newly-listed funds are: Pavillon Rouge Multi-Strategy Fund; Quercus Multi-Stra
Tuesday, July 9
Grand Bahama enjoys spectacular Independence celebrations
THE 46th annual Independence Celebrations in Grand Bahama ended with a spectacular fireworks display at Independence Park, following a cultural extravaganza and flagraising on Monday evening.
Water polo team withdrawal 'misconstrued' by critics
THE revelation that a junior water polo team withdrew from a tournament because it lacked funds to continue has been “misconstrued” by critics, the president of Bahamas Water Polo said in a statement on Tuesday.
Fred Mitchell describes govt's position on reparations as 'racist'
IN the wake of Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest underscoring that reparations for black Bahamians are not a government priority, Opposition Chairman Fred Mitchell has described the Minnis administration’s position on the matter as “racist”.
Man charged in connection with Montel Heights shooting
A 26-year-old male was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday facing nearly a dozen firearm-related charges in connection with the mass shooting in Montel Heights on June 30 that left more than 10 people suffering gunshot injuries.
Man charged with indecent assault of girl
A 30-year-old man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday charged with indecently assaulted a 13-year-old girl on Cat Island.
US Secretary of State extends warm wishes ahead of Independence anniversary
UNITED States Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has extended warm wishes to The Bahamas ahead of its 46th anniversary as an independent nation.
EDITORIAL: What opportunities are we missing out on?
The bid by Bahamas Hot Mix to raise up to $750m in cheap British government loans is certainly an eye-catching one.
FACE TO FACE: Felicia fighting to help young women from falling through the cracks in the system
When Felicia was just 16-years-old, she gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. She knew she was too young and that life would never be the same. She was born in a two-parent home and she considered her life stable until the age of 10, when her parents got divorced.
Looking back doesn't help, says Deputy PM on issue of reparations
“LOOKING backwards doesn’t help you win a race,” Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest said yesterday when asked his thoughts on calls for reparations for black Bahamians. In an interview with The Tribune, Mr Turnquest said reparations are not at
BPL announces areas currently affected by load shedding
Bahamas Power and Light said it expects the three-hour load shedding rotation to continue. The areas currently affected are:
Cline helicopter almost identical to model that crashed in UK
THE helicopter that crashed last week in Bahamian waters, killing seven, was nearly identical to a craft that crashed less than a year ago in the United Kingdom and resulted in the deaths of five people, including a pilot and four passengers from the
Independence celebrations will go on as scheduled
THE events planned for this year’s Independence celebrations will go on as scheduled, said Mark Humes, Fort Charlotte MP and chairman of the Independence Anniversary Planning Committee.
Generation need drives BPL’s first four solar choices
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chairman yesterday said the four Family Islands targeted to pioneer solar energy’s roll-out were selected because of their “additional generation needs”.
Gold fiasco - don’t blame us
THE government is not to blame for the failure of a teenage water polo team to complete a weekend regional tournament, Algernon Cargill, president of the Bahamas Aquatics Federation, said yesterday.
Post office deal will hit election
TRANSPORT and Local Government Minister Renward Wells yesterday said the future of the General Post Office will ultimately be decided by the next general election.
Hot Mix offered to raise $750m loan
A company part-owned by Brent Symonette's family offered to raise up to $750m in cheap British government loans to fund critical infrastructure works in The Bahamas.
BPL begins to release its load shedding schedule
BAHAMAS Power & Light began releasing a schedule of power cuts yesterday as part of its load shedding exercises.
Symonette's admission 'regretable', says Watson
FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Frank Watson yesterday called Brent Symonette’s admission over the circumstances that led to the lease of Town Centre Mall “regrettable”. However, the senior FNM member told The Tribune he believed the government made th
Turnquest promises to support GB business
DEPUTY Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest said the government is committed to facilitating the ease of doing business in Grand Bahama. He spoke after the owners of an air-cargo business, which has operated in Freeport for some 20 years, said they are
Police investigate suspected drowning
POLICE are investigating an alleged drowning incident that left a man dead. According to a police report, shortly after 3pm on Sunday a group of people were swimming at Jaws Beach, in western New Providence, when they noticed a male who appeared unr
'Decision on NHI catastrophic care expansion still six months away'
WHILE stressing the government’s commitment to fully implement National Health Insurance, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said it will be another six months before a decision is made about when the scheme can be expanded to include catastrophic care.
$1.8m contracts signed for PMH
CONTRACTS worth nearly $1.8m were signed yesterday for work at Princess Margaret Hospital to correct damage caused by periods of “neglect” of hospital equipment and infrastructure.One agreement will allow for a complete turnkey service to supply, ins
Social media commentator remanded
SOCIAL media commentator Gorman Bannister was remanded to prison yesterday over allegations he intentionally defamed ex-Cabinet minister Tennyson Wells in a series of voice notes. When he was arraigned before Senior Magistrate Derrence Rolle-Davis y
'Enforcing building codes helps counter climate change'
DEPUTY Prime Minster K Peter Turnquest yesterday said maintaining and enforcing building codes is a key way the government is attempting to mitigate the effects of climate change. Speaking on the sidelines of the CFAL Budget Pass held at the Baha Ma
No retrial as man has 42-year murder sentence quashed
A man has had his more than 40-year sentence for murdering someone he called a friend over five years ago quashed by the Court of Appeal. The court set aside Deangelo Johnson’s 42-year sentence for murdering 19-year-old James Farrington in March of
'LGBTI community marginalised by church and state'
THE LGBTI community’s silence over the years has allowed it to become marginalised by the state and church, according to Pride Bahamas organisers. But having been pushed to the sidelines this position is no longer accepted by younger generations who
Feedback 'very light' over BISX rules changes
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange’s (BISX) chief executive yesterday said market feedback on its proposed rules changes has been “very light” ahead of the results being submitted to regulators later this month. Keith Davies told Tribune
Sands Beer Cup: Jenna Bayles in the lead
BAHAMAS Golf Federation president Lynford Miller has announced that the race for the 2019 Sands Beer Cup is in full swing. After six rounds, the current leader is Jenna Bayles with a total of 151 points representing her best four rounds. Bayles also
Is the new Little Mermaid part of your world? Bahamians weigh in on Disney’s casting choice
Disney’s announcement that 19-year-old Halle Bailey as been cast as Ariel in their upcoming live action adaption of “The Little Mermaid” has created quite the social media stir.
Four things a healthy breakfast should include
According to registered dietitian and nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner, there are extensive benefits to starting the day with a nutritious meal.“The name breakfast means to ‘break the fast’ that happens when you don’t eat overnight,” said Ms Blatner
The benefits of a medical pedicure
A pedicure is a usually fun activity to pamper yourself and to get those pretty feet you can show off in open shoes. However, for many people, pedicures are a vital part of their health regime.Traditional cosmetic pedicures focus on making your toena
Mahlia Neely spearheads school uniform recycling initiative
She may have just finished high school herself, but Mahlia Neely believes one can never be too young to make a difference in one’s community. And she is doing just that by heading the nonprofit organisation Uniforms For All (UFA) – an initiative desi
How to perform better tonight
Getting a good quality erection and maintaining an erection can be an overwhelmingly stressful task for many men of various ages.Erectile dysfunction will affect every man to some degree at some point in their lives. But erection problems should neve
LIFE LINES: Women - afraid to be powerful
Power: an evocative word, and a provocative one, especially when used in the same sentence as the word woman or female. It often evokes an emotional but negative reaction in many, so much so that we as women have been told not be too assertive, lest,
Royal College of Surgeons Fellow helps bring back house call doctors
Dr Susan Williams-Lockhart appointed head of Bahamas Wellness Health System's mobile division
Former flight service physician, acute care specialist and Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Dr Susan Williams-Lockhart has been appointed clinical director of the Bahamas Wellness Clinic with responsibility for its mobile medicine division.The
Group fitness - A great place to start
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Coach Anthony Swaby on Soaring Eagles' honours list
LONG time legendary women’s basketball coach Anthony Swaby was among four persons making the Commonwealth Baptist Church’s Soaring Eagles’ 14th annual Community Independence Service honours list. Swaby, along with Minister of Works Desmond Bannister
Career highs for D'Shawn Knowles and Tahnaj Thomas in minor league baseball
A CAREER-high hitting streak for D’Shawn Knowles and a career-high strikeout performance for Tahnaj Thomas highlighted Bahamian minor league baseball play over the weekend. Knowles carried an eight-game hit streak into last night’s series finale aga
Burnside brothers recognised at Cycling Nationals
THEY were hailed as a group of brothers who collectively helped to change the scope of cycling on the local and international scene. During the Bahamas Cycling Federation’s 46th National Cycling Championships, Lawrence, Jeffery, Franklyn and Drexel B
Water polo funding 'insufficient' despite regional success
LOCAL water polo continues to face issues with funding, despite the recent success the sport has had at the regional level. Over the weekend, the team was forced to cut travel plans short at the CCCAN Championships in Bridgetown, Barbados, where the
Elite athletes warm up for BAAA track and field nationals
WITH the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ National Track and Field Championships fast approaching, some of the elite athletes were in action over the weekend at the Star Athletics Sprint Series at the Montverde Academy in Montverde, Flor
Bahamas U-17 girls suffer 83-43 rout to Puerto Rico
The Bahamas was on the opposite end of a lopsided result on day two of the Centrobasket Under-17 Championships for Women. The team suffered an 83-43 loss to Puerto Rico in their second game of the group stage yesterday at the Roberto Clemente Colise
Traffic men have their own power
Tuesday around 11am Nassau went dark - the whole island did not have any electricity but the Royal Bahamas Police, Traffic Division must had have a generator and in their eyes nothing changed and it would seem that they did not consider their presence at junctions controlled by traffic lights could need some assistance? Kudos to ASP Mark Stubbs.
A PM who is as unfit for office as Mr Symonette
In the run up to the 2017 General Election, the media and the public at large were whipped into a frenzy by a supposed conflict of interest that was exposed in email exchanges between then Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald and Sarkis Izmirlian, the original Baha Mar developer. In the emails, Mr. Fitzgerald enquired after his father’s company’s application for a contract with the resort.
Convicts see charges withdrawn
TWO men who previously stood trial over two separate murders have been discharged from allegedly causing harm to a fellow inmate at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services last year.
Architect chief: Building permit 'red tape' rising
A senior Bahamian architect yesterday argued that building permit “red tape” is increasing, not decreasing, and added: “I don’t know anyone who gets an approval in less than six months.”Gustavus Ferguson, the Institute of Bahamian Architects (IBA) pr
$20m honey market creating major buzz
A $20m market for honey-related products presents a tremendous entrepreneurial opportunity for Bahamians, the head of a local beekeeping co-operative believes. Alex Holden, chairman of the newly-formed Bahamas National Beekeepers Co-Operative (BNBC)
Entrepreneurs needed to 'ace' tourism competition
The Bahamas must continue to “ace” its tourism competition through superior customer service and identifying new entrepreneurial activities that appeal to visitors, a Cabinet minister is urging. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation,
Seminar to focus on harnessing Fintech
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has partnered with Aliv to host its annual Fintech (financial technology) seminar on July 26 at the British Colonial Hilton Hotel. Featuring both local and international speakers, the event will cover topi
Monday, July 8
VIDEO: Flooding on West Bay Street after heavy rain
The Bahamas has been drenched by heavy rain over the last few days.
UPDATED: BPL announces load shedding schedule for Monday
AS load shedding continues in New Providence, Bahamas Power & Light released a schedule of anticipated power cuts for Monday evening.
EDITORIAL: Will reparations talk ever be more than just talk?
Has the time now come for serious discussion about reparations?
Entrepreneurs hedging their bets with a $2m cannabis investment
Pioneer Bret “King of Kush” Bogue and former IT director Yorick Brown are hedging their bets on a Bahamian cannabis industry with a $2m investment in a local growing facility. Mr Brown, of Browns Point Ventures Ltd, said he and Mr Bogue - as partners
INSIGHT: Why vilify Symonette? The white oligarchs were replaced by black ones who have failed us
This past week potentially marked former Minister of Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration Brent Symonette’s last time in the Cabinet - and if we are brave enough to look ourselves in the mirror, it may be an instructive moment in our history.
LGBTI group wants to stage pride parade in 2020
THE local lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex community has set its sights on 2020 to host a pride parade.
'Deepen the spend' on 17.5% tourist rise
The Bahamas must “deepen the spend” if it is to maximise the “fabulous” 17.5 percent increase in stopover visitors for the year to end-May 2019, a Cabinet minister conceded yesterday. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribun
New calls for Minnis to step down over links with Symonette
THE decision to lease the Town Centre Mall to house the General Post Office has come under renewed scrutiny after former Cabinet minister Brent Symonette revealed Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis called him personally to negotiate the deal last year.
Crash copter’s black box found – Wreckage brought to surface and shipped to US lab
OFFICIALS have successfully located the flight recording device of the helicopter that crashed in waters off Abaco on Thursday, killing all seven people on board including American coal magnate billionaire Chris Cline.
Cycling: ‘Biggie’ wins national title, Cole takes overall crown
TYLER Cole came to town and outsprinted Lee Farmer to carry the Bahamas Cycling Federation’s 92-mile road race overall title home to Trinidad & Tobago. However, the national title went to third place finisher Anthony ‘Biggie’ Colebrooke.
Athletes bring home 3 gold medals, 4 silver, bronze
SAMSON Colebrooke, Keyshawn Strachan and Anthaya Charlton helped to lead the Bahamas to a fifth-place finish in the 10th North American, Central American and Caribbean U-18 and U-23 Athletic Championships in Queretaro, Mexico.
Chisholm hits two home runs, ties career high for RBIs
JAZZ Chisholm homered twice to bring his season total to 17 and tied a career high for RBIs in a single game to lead his Jackson Generals to their latest win in Double A Baseball. Chisholm also added a single to finish 3-5 with five RBI and two runs
WORLD VIEW – Making a difference: the example of António Guterres
IN HIS three and a half years as Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres has proved himself sensitive and alert to the difficulties confronting Caribbean states. He has been an example that Secretaries-General of other inter-governmental organisations would do well to emulate, particularly those interested in being elected for second terms.
Volleyball: Defenders win title
WITH not so many teams participating, the Defenders took advantage of their experience to win the women’s title in the TMT Independence Volleyball Classic yesterday at the DW Davis Gymnasium. The Defenders knocked off the combination of the Lady War
Load shedding to continue for rest of week
LOAD SHEDDING will continue this week in New Providence as beleaguered Bahamas Power and Light attempts to get more assets online, according to Executive Director Patrick Rollins. Still, Mr Rollins maintained the company’s position that the country
Man represents himself and has rape conviction quashed
A MAN has successfully argued his own appeal against a 25-year sentence for raping a woman at gunpoint and robbing her of almost $200 after burglarising her West Bay Street home. Oscar Ingraham, who was not represented by an attorney, was successful
Seven robbed at gunpoint
SEVEN people were robbed at gunpoint of cash, cellphones and vehicles in separate incidents over the weekend. Of those incidents, four took place on Friday and involved mostly women. The other three incidents took place on Saturday night. Shortly a
Jones and Sun lose 4th straight game
JONQUEL Jones and the Connecticut Sun continued their recent struggles, lost a fourth consecutive game and had their home winning streak broken.Jones had a season-low five points, eight rebounds and four blocked shots in the Sun’s 74-71 loss to the M
Third shark attack in two weeks
AN American tourist was bitten by a shark while snorkelling in waters off Guana Cay on Thursday, becoming the third reported person attacked by a shark in Bahamian waters in two weeks. Police said the Fort Lauderdale, Florida resident was snorkeling
Armed robbery at food store
POLICE are investigating the armed robbery of a Super Value food store yesterday morning. According to police, the incident took place shortly after 8am at Super Value’s East Street and Robinson Road location. Reports said that an armed man entered
Junkanoo Bowl: Americans Bernard, Catanzarite emerge as champions
AMERICANS Alexander Bernard and Ava Catanzarite emerged as the boys’ and girls’ champions of the International Tennis Federation’s Junkanoo Bowl junior tennis tournament. After carting off their respective singles titles on Friday at the National Te
Uniformed opportunist chasing clicks
I saw a Facebook video of a Free National Movement (FNM) supporter alleging that a controversial media personality and political opportunist has described Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis as being an Uncle Tom.
Bank chief: 'We can do better' over card fees
The Clearing Banks Association’s (CBA) chairman has admitted that the industry “can do better” in pushing for lower debit card fees, thus aiding the drive for a cashless society. Gowon Bowe, pictured , told Tribune Business that the industry needed
Enough to make your eyes bulge
A popular phrase these days is, “there are many ways to skin a cat”, with apologies to cat and animal lovers.
Bahamas dominate El Salvador 79-59
The Bahamas made an impressive debut with a dominant performance to open tournament play at the Centrobasket Under-17 Championships for Women.
'Slow climb out' on govt reform goals
The government has been urged to “speed up” its short-term transformation targets, a governance reformer suggesting current goals indicate “a slow climb out” for the economy. Robert Myers, pictured , the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (OR
Ex-minister holds off on $6m BOB 'default'
A former Cabinet minister yesterday said he had given an undertaking to hold off on enforcing a $6m default judgment against Bank of The Bahamas until July 16. Damian Gomez, former minister of state for legal affairs under the former Christie govern
WTO 'devastating' for farmers and fisheries
Becoming a full World Trade Organisation (WTO) member will be “devastating” for Bahamian farmers because they are “not prepared” for the competitive demands of liberalised trade regimes.Caron Shepherd, president of the Farmers United Cooperative, tol
Jitney drivers 'hold off' on cashless payments
Jitney drivers have held-off on introducing cashless payment mechanisms into the bus system due to the costs associated with maintaining them.Frederick Farrington, president of the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union (BUBDU), said such expenses undermi
Courier blames Customs demands for its closure
A Grand Bahama-based courier service is blaming Customs’ “virtually impossible demands” for its decision to close on July 31 after 22 years in business. GB Express, in a letter to its customers last week, said it was “impractical” to continue operat
Web shops donate to gambling addict fight
Bahamian web shops have donated $7,500 to Grand Bahama Health Services (GBHS) to help finance the training of two clinicians in how to treat gambling disorders.The Bahamas Gaming Operators Association (BGOA), in a statement issued last night, said th
Bahamas seeks Israeli help on transportation
The Bahamas is seeking Israel’s support and assistance over maritime and transportation-related matters. Renward Wells, minister of transport and local government, last week discussed with his Israeli counterpart, Bezalel Smotrich, the Middle Easter
Realtor teams with RBC for Hot Summer Homes
A Bahamian realtor has partnered with Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) to launch a two-month promotion that pledges to deliver a 48-hour turnaround on buyer financing approvals. Monica Knowles, property specialist with Bahamas Realty, explained that the t
Saturday, July 6
UPDATED: Police name seven victims in helicopter crash
A Bahamasair jet left Grand Bahama International Airport on Friday afternoon with the bodies of billionaire Chris Cline, his 22-year-old daughter, Kameron, and five other people who were killed in a helicopter crash off Abaco.
Colebrooke wins Bahamas’ third medal in Mexico
PURDUE University's sprinter Samson Colebrooke pushed the Bahamas medal count to three, adding to second silver during the evening session of day one of the 10th North American, Central American and Caribbean Under-18 and Under-23 Athletic Championships in Queretaro, Mexico on Friday.
Friday, July 5
Police report filed over illegal dumping 'that caused blackout'
OFFICIALS at Bahamas Power and Light yesterday confirmed that a police report was filed over the illegal dumping that reportedly caused an island-wide blackout.
Exciting lineup of Independence events
AN exciting calendar of events has been prepared for this year's independence celebrations.
Grand Bahama man charged with armed robbery
A 23-year-old male resident of Grand Bahama was charged with last week's armed robbery of Coca Cola in Freeport.
Governor General calls for Bahamians to reject divisiveness
BAHAMIANS must “reject” the things that stir up division if they want to “preserve” the country’s legacy of hospitality, said Governor General Cornelius A Smith.
34 fishermen deny fishing with prohibited apparatus
MORE than 30 Bahamian fisherman have denied allegations they were caught fishing in the Cay Sal Bank area with prohibited fishing apparatus last month.
Race conversation 'should start with reparations'
MINISTER of State for Legal Affairs Damian Gomez believes a national conversation on race should start with reparations.
Bahamas 'significantly affected by climate change'
THE Bahamas is being significantly affected by climate change, according to the acting director of the BEST Commission.
10 Haitian migrants intercepted at sea
TEN Haitian migrants, including six minors, were intercepted at sea this week by the US Coast Guard and taken to Grand Bahama on Thursday.
Opposition on Grand Bahama to Independence celebrations date change
THE change of date of the Independence Celebrations to July 8 on Grand Bahama is not going over well with some residents who feel it is breaking national tradition, and are calling for celebrations to be held as usual on July 9.
Anthaya Charlton wins gold, breaks record at NACAC championships
ANTHAYA Charlton added another historic performance for the Bahamas as the 10th North American, Central American and Caribbean U-18 and Under-23 Championships got underway in Queretato, Mexico.
EDITORIAL: Overcharged by BPL? Get the facts and figures before calling
It’s fair to say there’s not a great relationship between BPL and customers at the moment.
A COMIC'S VIEW: The real bosses of BPL, cont
Last week Works Minister Desmond Bannister offered up this nugget, regarding BPL’s horrendous performance, especially as of late.
Symonette dismisses idea of cannabis venture
FORMER Cabinet minister Brent Symonette has ruled out the possibility of a business venture in cannabis for him or his children if the government moves to end prohibition. Mr Symonette told The Tribune he supported the track to cannabis reform outli
Gibson retains Knight to be his lead attorney
FORMER Labour and National Insurance Minister Shane Gibson has retained Jamaican attorney Keith Knight, QC to be his lead attorney in his upcoming bribery trial, it was revealed yesterday.
DPM: Tax 'confusion' resolved by Monday
The deputy prime minister yesterday pledged that any “confusion” and “run around” stemming from the switch to VAT on real estate transactions will be “sorted out by Monday”. KP Turnquest told Tribune Business that the government was moving to ensure
American man bitten by shark off Guana Cay
AN American tourist was airlifted to New Providence after being bitten by a shark in waters off Guana Cay on Thursday.
US billionaire among seven dead in helicopter crash off Abaco
A helicopter crash off Grand Cay, Abaco claimed the life of billionaire coal tycoon Chris Cline, his daughter and five other people yesterday. Mr Cline died a day before his 61st birthday after their helicopter crashed as it was flying back to the United States,
‘Knee-jerk reaction’ won’t stop crime
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames insists law enforcement will not allow emotional, “knee-jerk” reactions to drive decision making in the fight against crime.
‘Power’s off, so why higher bills?’
AMID consumer complaints of rocketing Bahamas Power and Light bills in the aftermath of load shedding and an island wide outage, BPL Chairman Donovan Moxey is urging consumers to look at subtle changes in their behaviour while at home.
‘It’s not colour, it’s you, Brent’
PROMINENT businessman Sir Franklyn Wilson has hit out at former Cabinet minister Brent Symonette for his comments on race, calling his views narrow and emotional.
Infection killed girl set ablaze
A one-year-old girl who was allegedly set on fire by her schizophrenic mother had close to 50 percent of her body burned in the process, a forensic pathologist said yesterday.
US cops facing charges over Bahamian-American teen arrest
THREE Florida police officers are facing criminal charges after two of them were caught on video punching and arresting a Bahamian-American teen.
Volleyball tourney in memory of Tamaz
FOR the third consecutive year, the Defenders Volleyball Club will keep the memory of their former player Tamaz Thompson alive with the hosting of the Defenders Volleyball Tournament.The tournament is scheduled to begin 7pm tonight at the DW Davis Gy
Inauguration ceremony held for president at anniversary banquet
The Rotary Club of New Providence held its traditional changeover and inauguration ceremony for its new president, Kevin A Fernander, on Saturday, June 12.
Govt renews its 52-week job programme
HUNDREDS of participants of the government’s National Job Creation and Skills Enhancement Programme have been re-engaged for the second year of the employment initiative which begins on Monday, Minister of Public Service and National Insurance Brensi
Sweeting: 'We are here to help families through the process of acquiring these scholarships'
INTERNATIONAL Elite Sports Academy has become known for producing young talent to the professional baseball level but has also recognised several prospective student-athletes on their path to collegiate baseball this fall.I-Elite recently extended it
Stakeholders meet over water sport protocols
THE Tourism Development Corporation yesterday held a stakeholder meeting to discuss the development of emergency protocols and regulations for the water sport industry. In an interview with The Tribune yesterday, TDC CEO and Executive Director Janet
Auditors fail to verify $280,000 school payment
AUDITOR General Terrance Bastian has said the Bahamas Embassy in Washington DC did not receive any receipts over five years to verify that nearly $280,000 was paid to a school for tuition. As a result, auditors could not verify whether the school re
Shooting incident leaves two women in hospital
TWO women are in hospital following a shooting incident in Freeport early yesterday morning, according to police. Assistant Superintendent of Police Terecita Pinder reported the victims sustained non-life threatening injuries. According to reliable
STATESIDE: Supreme Court plays both sides of the table
With all the furore over the first Democratic candidates debates and President Trump determined to interject himself into today’s Washington DC Fourth of July extravaganza, the American Supreme Court has been mostly pushed off the front pages.
Bahamians in minor league baseball spotlight
JAZZ Chisholm and Lucius Fox split a four-game series in another head-to-head matchup, Tahnaj Thomas improved in his third start and Kristian Robinson hit his second home run of the season to highlight action from Bahamian players this week in minor
Conquerors for Christ celebrate 15th anniversary and leader’s birthday
The Conquerors for Christ Junkanoo group has had much to celebrate in recent weeks. First, on June 22, the group’s leader, Apostle Henry Higgins celebrated his 54th birthday with the community, and then the following Sunday, June 30, they marked their 15th anniversary with a special church service.
IMF: Make bus tickets electronic
The government has been urged by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to prioritise introducing electronic bus tickets as a means to encourage Bahamians to switch to electronic payments. The fund, in a just-released assessment of the Bahamian payme
Local Christians are converted to apostles through Cursillo
Cursillo is Spanish and simply means “a short course in Christianity”.
It’s in you: The yin and yang of parenting
It’s impossible to discuss all the potential and promise of kids without looking at their parents. Although kids have other influences such as friends, mentors, teachers and the like, parents are the foundation layers, the main ingredient in who and what a child may become.
Walking with God
Believers in Christ understand the significance and connotation of walking with God. It represents a way of life that requires that we adhere to God’s commands and that we live in harmony with God’s will for our lives. For many this can be extremely challenging notwithstanding the depth of one’s faith. Micah 6:8 (KJV) tells us: “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”
Junkanoo Bowl: Jacobi and Sydney eliminated
Top seed Sydney Clarke and top-ranked male player Jacobi Bain both fell victims to respective southpaw opponents and were eliminated from the International Tennis Federation’s Junkanoo Bowl junior tennis tournament.
Bahamas girls ready for under-17 Centrobasket in San Juan
THE Bahamas Basketball Federation will field its first team for a busy summer with the upcoming Centrobasket Under-17 Championships. The U-17 Girls will be hosted at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Team Bahamas will be capta
DIANE PHILLIPS: Success secured by quietly going it alone
In a few days, The Bahamas will celebrate its 46th anniversary of Independence. There will be the usual pomp and circumstance, the banners, flags, bunting, music and feelings of pride and nationalism. It will be preceded by a Beat the Retreat on the 7th and culminate in a Junkanoo rush-out on Bay Street that insiders say will be different from any that came before.
Fears for 'reform catalyst' if WTO deadline missed
Private sector executives yesterday expressed fears that The Bahamas will lose “a desperately-needed reform catalyst” if the government decides the 2020 WTO target is unattainable.Darron Pickstock, who heads the Chamber of Commerce’s trade and invest
WTO opponent: 'I'm not letting my guard down'
A vocal WTO opponent yesterday promised he will “not let my guard down” despite the government’s chief negotiator suggesting it was likely the 2020 accession target will be missed.Paul Moss, pictured, head of Bahamians Agitating for a Referendum on F
Bank chief urges shift in low-cost housing policies
The Clearing Banks Association’s (CBA) is again urging the government to focus its low-cost housing effort on buying distressed properties rather than developing new subdivisions.Gowon Bowe, pictured, told Tribune Business that such a shift would gen
Travel company wins airline award for third year in row
Going Places Travel, a major Caribbean travel management firm, has been honoured by American Airlines for a third consecutive year. The airline awarded Going Places Travel its Caribbean Circle of Excellence Award, which recognises the sales performa
Airbnb unveils Experiences platform for entrepreneurs
Airbnb has teamed with the Government’s Tourism Development Corporation to host a series of events aimed at empowering local entrepreneurs through a platform that highlights local activities.The events, which included a Train the Trainer programe, an
IAN FERGUSON: Ways to navigate the treacherous workplace
We are increasingly hearing about the great difficulties younger employees are having in their efforts to assimilate into the Bahamian workforce. The general perception is that younger workers are not fully committed to the task at hand, and walk in
Chinese travel agents make Bahamas visit
The Ministry of Tourism partnered with the private sector to host senior managers from 12 leading Chinese travel agencies on a familiarisation visit to The Bahamas.The objective of the trip, which was organised with help from Air Canada, Atlantis, Gr
Thursday, July 4
EDITORIAL: The issue of race in The Bahamas
Is The Bahamas ready for a white prime minister?
Jitney drivers cut back on services and warn a full strike could be next
JITNEY drivers withdrew their services yesterday after government officials failed to meet with the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union before their July 1 deadline.Frederick Farrington, BUBDU president, told The Tribune their demonstration yesterday w
Audit report finds poor monitoring of reservist hours
AN Auditor General’s report has said there was inadequate monitoring of Royal Bahamas Police Force reservist hours, which increased the risk of officers being paid for hours they did not work. At the same time, Auditor General Terrance Bastian said
Delinquent homeowner law's $500m 'bottleneck'
Commercial banks are working with the government to remove “bottlenecks” to cutting the industry’s $500m “bad loan” pile that stem from existing protections for delinquent homeowners. Gowon Bowe, the Clearing Banks Association’s (CBA) chairman, this
Don't blame BPL – illegal dumping caused island-wide blackout
ILLEGAL dumping within close proximity to a Bahamas Power and Light transmission pole was yesterday blamed for an island-wide blackout, which impacted New Providence on Tuesday.
'Bahamas not ready for a white PM'
FORMER Cabinet minister Brent Symonette yesterday suggested the country was not ready for a white prime minister as he reiterated his call for a national discussion on race and wealth in politics.
Firms still fume over summer chaos
BUSINESS owners and residents say they are frustrated with the constant power outages in New Providence that have cost them customers and household appliances.
Fighting crime will cost some freedoms
DAYS after more than a dozen people were shot while attending a birthday party in Montel Heights, Bahamas Christian Council president Delton Fernander said residents must give up some “freedoms” so law enforcement can stem crime.
‘Night my wife set daughter on fire’
A MAN fell asleep with all three of his children by his side, only to wake up the next morning to discover that his schizophrenic wife had taken the youngest one and set her on fire at the behest of “demons”, jurors heard yesterday.
Bran: Bahamas 'must explore' income tax
The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) ex-leader yesterday argued that The Bahamas “certainly needs to explore” replacing the present regressive taxation system with an income tax.Branville McCartney, backing the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF)
Liability issue blamed for long delay in Rubis gas leak report
A PERCEIVED liability issue was named as the controlling factor behind a year-long delay in the release of a report into a 2012 Rubis gasoline leak that impacted Marathon residents.
Royal Bahamas Defence Force Fun Run/Walk and Health Expo
CORAL HARBOUR BASE — RBDF - Mackey Williams and Branae Coakley were the first male and female runners to cross the finish line on Saturday past at the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s annual Fun Run/Walk and Health Fair at Goodman’s Bay.
Athletes invited to the Pan Am Games
THE Bahamas Olympic Committee released the names of the athletes invited to participate in the 2019 Pan American Games.
Amron signs with DiBella Entertainment
ONE month under new management, Amron Sands has made another progressive step outside of the ring and joined a new promotional outlet in search of new opportunities.Sands joined DiBella Entertainment as the latest addition to its roster of heavyweigh
'Shaw' Fritz to join the Tigers this fall
SHAQUILLO Fritz has decided on the final destination of his NCAA basketball career in his postgraduate season. Fritz announced via Twitter that he will join the Pacific University Tigers for the upcoming Fall 2019 campaign. “I want to express how t
Cracking the minor leagues
The Bahamas continues to produce elite baseball talent and added another group of young men to the expanding list of local players to sign minor league contracts with Major League franchises. Ian Lewis (Miami Marlins), Everett Cooper (Houston Astros
THE PRESS BOX: If the Lakers lose out on Kawhi, all is not lost
LAST summer, All-Star centre DeMarcus Cousins took a huge pay cut to join the star-studded Golden State Warriors with the hope of winning his first NBA championship title and rebuilding his value. After not winning the championship in this year’s NB
Cannabis is a control issue
THE Cannabis conversation we are having right now in The Bahamas is all about control.
Sorry Nassau and the ghetto
“On the Island” was originally “created” after news of the May 9, 2019 double homicide in White’s Addition off Kemp Road -- the morning after the double murder at Potter’s Cay. While I did not witness the White’s Addition shootings, I was on the Queen’s College campus and heard the gunshots and the wails of grief that followed.
Health expert cross is honoured to be chosen for long term care role
BAHAMIAN Patrelle Major Cross has been selected from a pool of thousands of healthcare professionals across the United States as a future leader in long-term and post acute care.
Peruvian man dies from injuries
A 35-year-old male Peruvian man died in hospital this week following serious injuries he sustained in a hit and run traffic accident in Freeport on June 30, police reported yesterday.
Prison escapee fails to overturn his 18-year sentence for armed robbery
A FORMER prison escapee’s hopes at overturning his 18-year sentence for robbing a local jewellery store and two people at gunpoint of over $100,000 worth of cash and merchandise have been dashed by the Court of Appeal. Appellate Justices Jon Isaacs,
'Sexual offences court could have disruptive impact'
JUSTICE Bernard Turner yesterday expressed concern that the establishment of a sexual offences court could have a “disruptive impact” as legal counsel may already have matters scheduled for other courts. Speaking during yesterday’s session of the Na
Govt undecided over citizenship anomalies
THE government is still undecided on whether it will correct “anomalies” regarding the transference of citizenship through legislation or to leave it for a referendum, according to Law Reform Commissioner Dame Anita Allen. Public consultation on the
Pharmachem confirms Freeport job losses
PHARMACHEM Technologies has confirmed over 30 full-time workers and direct contractors were laid off at its facility in Freeport, but said the company will continue to inject over $20 million annually into the economy. In a statement issued yesterda
UWI's Bermudez to make keynote speech
ROBERT Bermudez, chancellor of the University of the West Indies, will be the keynote speaker for a public discussion scheduled for July 15 at UWI House Restaurant on University Drive, Nassau. Mr Bermudez, the university's 6th chancellor and highest
Bimini in 'devastating' fuel shortages blow
Bimini’s boating-reliant tourism industry was yesterday said to be facing another “devastating blow” from fuel shortages just ahead of the US Independence Day holiday weekend. Multiple resorts and marinas confirmed the island’s economy was bracing f
GB ships' waste processor in $3m expansion raise
A Freeport-based ships’ waste processor has been approved for a $3m Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) loan that will quadruple the size of the Caribbean’s first such facility.Clean Marine Group, which was founded in 2017, will also receive $1.5m
Digital B$ 'no panacea' with unreliable BPL
A digital Bahamian dollar is “no panacea” for this nation’s financial inclusion issues, the IMF has warned, especially if unreliable power supply continues to plague the Family Islands.The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its Article IV report,
Wednesday, July 3
ALICIA WALLACE: None of us is safe from a stray bullet, vulnerable amid illusions of safety
Following the shooting of 15 people at a party in Montel Heights where the intended target ran into the crowd, the Commissioner of Police said: “I feel safe and I think you feel safe.” This is a puzzling statement, particularly given the incident being discussed.
EDITORIAL: A shadow of its former self
It ought to be the crown jewel of The Bahamas. Instead, it’s not fit enough for its new occupant to live in.
Energy reinforcements coming from Freeport as load shedding continues
AS he apologised on behalf of the government for Bahamas Power and Light’s failure to offer uninterrupted service, Acting Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest revealed that generators from Grand Bahama are on the way to Nassau to assist with the continui
Symonette had no conflict of interest, says Turnquest
DEPUTY Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest yesterday defended St Anne’s MP Brent Symonette against conflict of interest claims he says are unfair and baseless. Underscoring a lack of maturity, Mr Turnquest said it was very unfortunate the country could
You get less time for manslaughter – what judge said as woman appeals against sentence for COB theft
APPELLATE judges yesterday questioned whether a Supreme Court judge was right in sentencing a former College of the Bahamas employee to potentially 20 years in prison for stealing over $700,000 from the institution over a seven-year period.Appellate
Shotspotter isn't helping us, says Davis
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday slammed the government’s investment in the ShotSpotter technology following the mass shooting in Montel Heights on Sunday morning.
GG’s rental expenses ‘money we must spend’
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest yesterday stressed the importance of “comfort and security” in the wake of reports the government will spend $9,000 a month to rent a home for new Governor General CA Smith.
Brent admits talks ahead of Minnis coup: ‘But I told rebels not to go ahead’
ST Anne’s MP Brent Symonette yesterday admitted he was involved in “some discussions” ahead of the coup that saw then-Opposition Leader Dr Hubert Minnis ousted as leader of the Official Opposition in Parliament last term – but ultimately told the “rebel seven” not to go through with it.
DPM: Middle class fear over IMF’s income tax
The deputy prime minister yesterday warned that following the IMF’s income tax call would likely result in “a significantly higher tax burden” for middle class Bahamians.
Sarkis in new court victory over CCA
Sarkis Izmirlian’s $2.25bn fraud and breach of contract claim against Baha Mar’s main contractor was yesterday given full clearance to proceed by a New York appeals court.
'We want teachers to be satisfied with deal'
THE Ministry of Education is aiming to ensure teachers are satisfied with the outcome of negotiations over a new industrial agreement. This is according to Education Minister Jeff Lloyd, who told The Tribune yesterday he was happy with the progress
PLP back in the running
With the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) securing only four seats in the 2017 general election, it seemed like a farfetched notion that the oldest political organisation in The Bahamas would be able to rebound and become a viable alternative to the incumbent Free National Movement (FNM) with its 35 seats.
An insane event
I recently read in one of the dailies about an upcoming party to be held on Sassoon Drive in Winton Heights, which apparently advertises the event as “bare naked-The ultimate summer pool party. Apparently it is an economic event advertising general admission tickets as $25 and VIP tickets as $50.
Beauty and beast
The natural beauty of the Montagu waterfront: The displays of shifting colours and shadows orchestrated by the setting sun. The gentle, refreshing breeze a welcome respite after a stifling hot day and BPL outages. The families, especially the children splashing in the shallows, and others immersed up to their chests in the sea recapping the day and solving the country’s problems.
Kevin Johnson Summer Basketball Camp helpingprospects get off to school
JERINA Madayag likes what she sees in the Bahamas. That is one of the reasons why she continues to come back year after year to the Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson Summer Basketball Camp looking for more and more basketball prospects to take to the US.All the way
Junkanoo Bowl: Donte and Denali eliminated
Davis Cupper Donte Armbrister and national junior champion Denali Nottage took their opponents right to the wire, only to lose gruelling three-setters in their first round matches in the International Tennis Federation’s Junkanoo Bowl Under-18 Tennis
Kalik Summer Bowling League heats up
PLAY continued in the Kalik Summer Bowling League Tournament Monday night at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Centre with 10 teams competing for a 1st place prize of $1,200, 2nd place $600 and 3rd place $400. The Strike Force team, led by an
Mike Sands elected president of the NACAC
MICHAEL ‘Mike’ Sands is now the new North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) president and International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) area representative.
Cycling nationals all set for this weekend
THE Bahamas Amateur Cycling Federation is slated to hold its annual National Independence Championships this weekend in Heritage Park. But there will be a new twist to the time trials and road race. According to federation president Roy Colebrook, f
Abaco Tennis Association hosts successful summer tournament
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) congratulates the Abaco Tennis Association (ATA) for hosting a successful summer tournament this past week. The Abaco Tennis Summer Camp was held in Forest Heights, Abaco. Recently, BLTA “Play Tennis Cours
Two arrests as police find marijuana
GRAND Bahama police were able to recover a container with more than 250 packages of suspected marijuana which resulted in the arrest of two men on Monday. According to reports, officers of the Rapid Response Unit were on routine patrol shortly after
No place for corruption, says Johnson as he steps into new role
NEWLY sworn in Minister of Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration Elsworth Johnson yesterday suggested there will be “no place for corruption” as he committed the Immigration Department to upholding the rule of law and equality under
$7.2m to repair nine schools
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd said yesterday nine schools are in need of critical repair at a cost of $7.2m. With about six weeks until administrators and teachers are expected to report to work, Mr Lloyd said school repairs have already begun. “We
Gaming Board regulations could be finalised this week
GAMING Board regulations that will tack down the legal taxation framework for the industry could be enforced today. Attorney General Carl Bethel told reporters yesterday draft amendments to the Gaming Act were also being reviewed by Cabinet and, if
Man can still have fair trial even though he's no longer a juvenile
A MAN who was charged as a 15-year-old has lost his bid to appeal a judge’s decision not to permanently stay the criminal proceedings against him because he had already become a legal adult before the trial could get off the ground, thus losing the b
IMF queries Central Bank 'independence' over BOB
The government’s majority ownership of Bank of The Bahamas may have impaired the Central Bank’s “independence” in regulating the troubled institution, the IMF has reported.The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its just-unveiled Article IV and fin
IMF tells banks: Don't 'penalise' merchants on debit card use
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged local banks to stop “penalising” Bahamian merchants for accepting debit card payments by levying “unjustified” transaction fees. The fund, in its newly-released financial sector assessment on The Baham
Bank collapse fund at just 45% of $125m target
The fund protecting Bahamian depositors against bank failure contains just 45 percent of its desired $125m asset target, the IMF has revealed, as it called for the industry to pay more. The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its just-released ass
Hurricane Hole targeting largest dock in Caribbean
Hurricane Hole’s developer yesterday said its investment will increase by $20m-$30m amid plans to build the Caribbean’s largest marina at the Paradise Island destination. STERLING Global Financial executives said the project was a “couple of weeks”
Hurricane Hole 'proves' pent-up demand for PI
THE “pent up” demand for Paradise Island has been proven after two-thirds of the Hurricane Hole project’s first phase residential units went under contract within the first two weeks. Patrick Lenihan, director of sales at Waypoint Real Estate, the m
Mega docks to aid yacht registry effort
Hurricane Hole’s ambition to develop the largest Caribbean marina slip could aid The Bahamas’ efforts to establish a yacht registry, the deputy prime minister said yesterday.
Tuesday, July 2
Man shot dead on Ragged Island Street
A MAN is dead after being shot shortly before 3pm Tuesday on the corner of Ragged Island Street and Andros Avenue.
Teenager dies in hit and run
TRAFFIC police in New Providence are investigating a hit-and-run incident that left a boy dead Tuesday morning.
EDITORIAL: We must work together to stop guns
Members of the community spoke yesterday about the fear, trauma and anger following Sunday’s mass shooting in Ethel Street.
Sands elected president of NACAC
MICHAEL 'Mike' Sands made history Tuesday by becoming the first Bahamian president of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC).
FACE TO FACE: It’s all adding up for the girl from Fox Hill
Jamielle Davis is a Fox Hill girl to the bone. Her homestead is in Fox Hill, as is her church and the school she spent all of her formative years in.
Bahamas Hot Mix still in dispute over Antigua work
BAHAMAS Hot Mix, the company awarded a major $20m contract to upgrade two runways at Lynden Pindling International Airport, remains locked in dispute adjudication board proceedings over contracted work in Antigua, The Tribune understands. BHM was in
Rental delays force continued load shedding
BAHAMAS Power and Light’s generation challenges are continuing and have been exacerbated by the delay of some rental generators. Load shedding was continued in portions of eastern New Providence yesterday, with many residents lashing out on the powe
Sebas extends his Titans following $750,000 raise
Sebas Bastian’s securities house has extended the offering period for its Titan funds by over two weeks after the flagship vehicle so far attracted 400 investors and $750,000 in subscriptions. Hillary Deveaux, Investar Securities chairman, yesterday
Brent: My decision to leave Cabinet
ST ANNE’S MP Brent Symonette said yesterday his decision to step down as a substantive Cabinet minister had “absolutely” nothing to do with recent controversy over a contract awarded to a company tied to his family. Instead, the former financial services, trade and industry and immigration minister said the move was up for discussion between him and Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for the past six months.
They came to kill: Families relive terror of Montel Heights outrage
RESIDENTS of Ethel Street say they have been left “traumatised”, “frightened” and “angry” following Sunday’s horrifying mass shooting at a birthday party that left more than ten people suffering gunshot injuries.
‘Violence brought on by years of neglect’
IN the wake of a weekend marred by serious gun violence, National Security Minister Marvin Dames has condemned the “growing prevalence of assault rifles” possessed by “young, misguided, and immature young men”.
Warning after man suffers 16 bee stings
RECENT “aggressive” bee attacks occurring in Freeport and East Grand Bahama have prompted the Bahamas National Trust to issue an alert to the public.
Shark feeding blamed for attacks
AN American man survived a shark bite in Abaco last week just days before an American woman was killed, raising further concerns about possible chum dumping in Bahamian waters.
CA Smith is the 10th
In both their speeches during the swearing-in ceremony Friday morning Prime Minister Hubert Minnis and new Governor General C. A. Smith got some history wrong.
Indoor cycling trend catches on in the Bahamas
With New Providence not really being a bicycle friendly city, indoor biking is steadily becoming a popular alternative for those who want to give their bodies a low-impact, but effective workout.Cycling in place may seem boring to the person who enj
A 'Fresh Face' for Summer
After years of heavy Instagram makeup being being the go-to look for women, a new trend is taking hold: the face, natural face look. Runway and social media models, celebrities and cosmetic professionals are all going for luminous skin without lookin
Nesbitt signs with Paulista in Brazil
DAVID Nesbitt is on the move for the third time in as many years in Brazil’s pro basketball league, the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB).The veteran forward signed with Sport Club Corinthians Paulista for the 2019-20 season.In 37 games for Flamengo Basketb
Heats Athletics track club compete in junior nationals
THE 10-member team of the Grand Bahama Heats Athletics track club was recently in Nassau to compete in the Junior Nationals. One of the star players, Terrence Jones, was part of the 10-member team that participated. Terrance holds the 2019 Junior Na
Johnson: 'I feel far better conditioned for this fight'
BAHAMIAN middleweight boxer Tureano Johnson promises a much better showing this time around when he steps back into the ring.During a pre-fight promotion for his July 18 matchup against Ireland’s Jacob Quigley for the North American Boxing Federation
Juniors get set for Pan Am U-20
IT’S going to be a busy time for several junior athletes as they will be heading off to compete in two separate meets in the space of two weeks this month. Right after their return from the NACAC Under-18 and Under-23 Championships in Santiago de Qu
Minor league players begin their pro careers as rookies
BOTH Bahamian minor league players with New York Major League Baseball franchises begin their pro careers at the rookie level in the Gulf Coast League. D’Vaughn Knowles is several games into his campaign with the New York Yankees’ - GCL Yankees East
Jacobi advances
Top seed Alexander Bernard had one of the quickest matches played so far in the International Tennis Federation’s Junkanoo Bowl junior tennis tournament yesterday at the National Tennis Centre. Also on day one of the week-long tournament, Bahamas La
DIANE PHILLIPS: How a British war hero and a young Bahamian woman proved that love really can conquer all
On June 17, three generations of a low-profile Bahamian family boarded flights to a remote town in Wales where the man who was their father and ancestor would receive one of the highest honours ever accorded.
The ultimate boot camp for aspiring pageant contestants
THE latest undertaking of former Miss Bahamas World Chantal O’Brian will see her hosting a pageant and modelling boot camp that will act as a training ground for aspiring beauty queens.Having competed in three consecutive Miss Bahamas Organisation pa
LIFE LINES: Are you a real victim or a volunteer?
Before any reader gets too agitated by misconstruing my headline, let me say that I am not suggesting that any of us volunteer to to be the object of the genuinely bad things that can befall us – such as murder, rape, or any emotional, physical or cr
Doctors agree a one-two punch most effective in treating gynaecological cancers
In the Bahamas, where the rate of new cases of cancer of the cervix is the highest in the Caribbean and nearly twice as high as the global average, experts say a one-two punch is proving most effective in treating the disease.At almost one new case p
29 fishermen arrested for violations
A BAHAMIAN fishing vessel with 29 Bahamians on board was apprehended on Sunday afternoon by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force for fisheries violations.While on routine patrol, HMBS Rolly Gray, under the command of Senior Lieutenant William Sturrup, app
Sea lice warning issued for beachgoers
THE MINISTRY of Health has issued an advisory warning beachgoers following an eruption of sea lice and jellyfish bites. Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said officials received many complaints about sea lice and released the statement to educate the p
Poor AC forces workers to go home at lunchtime
WORKERS at the Department of Environmental Health Services are voicing their concerns over unacceptable conditions that have been forcing them to leave work half day. Employees at the department’s Farrington Road location told The Tribune they have
Kwasi sorry to see 20 jobs axed at Grand Bahama firm
MINISTER of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson has expressed sadness over lay-offs at Pharmachem Technologies in Grand Bahama where it is believed that some 20 persons were affected. The industrial company - which had commenced a $180 million exp
Drug trial delayed as accused recovers from shooting
A WOMAN’S trial over allegations she tried to smuggle drugs to an inmate has been adjourned by another three months after revelations she is still incapacitated from being shot earlier this year. Wendy Smith was one of four people shot on March 10 d
The right recipe for health and success
Frank Benoit is 61 years old and struggled with his weight for many years. He finally decided to make a decisive change 10 years ago when he took an honest look at his lifestyle, especially his diet. Committed to his new health and wellness journey,
Pictures we don't need
I firmly believe in the citizens right to freedom of expression and of the press so now in the day of social media and with the proliferation and instantaneous postings Government and especially the law enforcement Agencies need to wake up and be far more responsive to incidents of public interest.
Jitney drivers warn on strike
JITNEY drivers yesterday put Bahamians on notice that they plan to withdraw their services as early as this week Wednesday, telling Tribune Business: “Enough is enough”. Frederick Farrington, president of the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union, told
Symonette exit will cost FNM
Brent Symonette’s resignation from the Minnis cabinet is a net loss to The Bahamas and to the FNM.
Penile cancer: What you need to know
Penile cancer is relatively rare in developed countries, but in some penile cancer could represent as high as 20 percent of all male cancers. In the United States, according to the American Cancer Society, penile cancer affects one in 100,000 men. Pr
The time is now
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic. I am like most people w
IMF lowers Bahamas 2019 growth to 1.8%
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) last night cut The Bahamas’ projected real GDP growth for 2019 to 1.8 percent, and warned that external risks facing this country “have increased”.The fund’s executive board, in concluding its annual Article IV c
BOB: $80m in deposits lost if it collapsed
Just one-third of insurance-eligible Bank of The Bahamas (BOB) deposits would have been covered if the troubled BISX-listed institution had collapsed, the IMF revealed last night. The International Monetary Fund (IMF), which released both its Articl
IMF calls for property tax rate increase
The IMF last night called on the government to raise real property tax rates while again forecasting that it will miss its 2018-2019 deficit target by a sum equal to 0.5 percent of GDP. The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its full Article IV r
Nassau hotels hit 34% room revenue increase
New Providence hotels saw average room rates for the four months to end-April hit the $300 mark as Easter added further fuel to the year-to-date 34 percent increase in room revenue. The Central Bank’s report on monthly economic developments for May
Tourism teams with pageant organisers
The Ministry of Tourism yesterday said it has teamed with a fitness pageant organiser to bring 300 contestants to The Bahamas for a four-day competition from August 7-10. In a statement, it described the WBFF Worlds Bahamas pageant as “the super bow
Minister hails BMA's quality ranking move
The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has moved up six spots to second place on an international ranking that measures the quality of a country’s shipping registry. Renward Wells, pictured , minister of transport and local government, hailed the BMA’
Monday, July 1
How passenger helped bus crash victims
A passenger on the tourist bus that crashed at Rock Sound, Eleuthera, last week has spoken of how he helped survivors in the immediate minutes after the crash.
PMH cancelled admissions and elective surgeries after mass shooting
PRINCESS Margaret Hospital cancelled admissions and elective surgeries yesterday until further notice following a Montel Heights mass shooting, which compounded an ongoing overcrowding and boarding issue at the Accident and Emergency Department.
Six-month plant delay hits Pharmachem jobs
A six-month construction delay has forced Pharmachem Technologies to lay-off 23 staff, with possibly more to follow, in what was yesterday described as a “major blow” for Freeport’s economy.
‘Don’t sweep our boys’ deaths under the carpet’
THE family of Blair John, one of the two young men found dead in Italy last month, has raised concerns that authorities initially attempted to sweep the investigation into their deaths “under the carpet”.
THE BIG QUESTION: What changes do you want to see before the 50th year of Independence in 2023?
As we prepare to celebrate the 46th anniversary of Bahamian Independence, what changes would you like to see in the nation before the 50th anniversary?
EDITORIAL: We must stop the flow of automatic weapons
In an instant, a celebration turned into horror. A birthday party for a pregnant woman in Montel Heights became the target of a mass shooting. Video clips circulated online showed how panic suddenly struck as people scrambled for cover.
Bloodbath: Ten women among 15 shot as gunman attacks birthday party
FIFTEEN people were shot early yesterday morning in Montel Heights during a birthday celebration that turned into a nightmare.
UPDATED: Symonette resigns from Cabinet
TWO weeks after revelations that a company with ties to Brent Symonette’s family was awarded a contract to upgrade runways at Lynden Pindling International Airport, the St Anne’s MP resigned from his substantive Cabinet position.
BLTA’s Junkanoo Bowl starts today
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association is getting ready to begin its annual International Tennis Federation (ITF) Junkanoo Bowl Tournament at the National Tennis Centre today.
Soccer girls get their athletic scholarships
LAURANN Brown, Savanna Rolle and Grand Bahamian McKell Yallop were among the first of five soccer players who have pioneered the student-athlete resources and support (Stars) programme.
Arnett-Willie invited to serve as a commentator
WITH a track career that enabled her to compete at the Olympic Games over and done with, former sprinter Philippa Arnett-Willie is lending her expertise to the sport as a commentator.
El Aalvador: Age group team leaves on July 25
SHERRY Francis likes the make-up of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) Age Group team that she’s taking to San Salvador, El Salvador.
19-member team all set for Mexico
FOR the first time, the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association has added the under-18 division to the Under-23 division for the 10th edition of the biennial NACAC Championships this year.
Sands to run for president of NACAC
BY Tuesday, former Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations president and public relations officer Mike Sands will know whether or not he will become the fifth president of the North America, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association.
Freedom Farm claims all three division titles
The Freedom Farm Baseball League highlighted the final day of the Bahamas Baseball Association’s 2019 National Championships with a dominant performance and three division titles.
Three ministers stood out in the budget debate
The budget debate has now, mercifully, been concluded.
No time to privatise
Just as residents of New Providence tuck into another muggy summer of intense load-shedding that (by official statement released in late winter) is not happening, the Guardian chooses this time to call for the selling off of the utility. One sometimes wonders if those in charge do not share such ambitions, which are (in some minds) advanced by the failure of BPL right in the midst of one of the hottest summers on record.
POLICE ADVICE: We have to make time to be involved in our children’s lives
If we want to stop violence, we need to understand what causes it in the first place.
INSIGHT: Everyone in search of a magic moment but they came up short
Hugh Hewitt was regaling a private New York audience late last week after the first two Democratic debates of the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Hewitt, a 63-year-old pundit and Harvard graduate who is resolutely conservative, has emerged in recent years as an acceptable right-wing voice on left-leaning or centrist American media such as CNN, MSNBC and the Washington Post. Now he was trying to put into perspective the first night of Democratic debates.
Minnis heads to St Lucia for CARICOM conferencce
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis will travel to Gros Islet, Saint Lucia today for the 40th Regular Meeting of the Conference of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Team Bahamas named for Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships
THE Bahamas Golf Federation has announced the team members that are expected to represent the Bahamas at the 63rd annual Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships.
Bahamas’ case for lesser KYC regime still ‘not sufficient’
The Bahamas cannot rely on the Central Bank’s “low risk” finding alone to persuade international regulators it should lower an onerous compliance burden, an ex-attorney general is arguing.
‘Unusual’ claims volume knocks Summit off peak
A Bahamian insurer has blamed “an usually large number of claims” for a non-hurricane year resulting in 2018 profits being slashed almost in half.
Bimini power crisis ‘like visiting the Third World’
A Cabinet minister has admitted that Bimini’s power crisis is “extremely vexing” for the island’s tourism lifeline as furious visitors cancel bookings, leave early and demand refunds.
BTC apologises for ‘critical fault’
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday apologised after “a critical fault” on its network disrupted fixed-line and mobile voice communications throughout the weekend.
Bran: End blame game over BPL energy crisis
The DNA’s former leader has called for the political blame game over Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) generation woes to cease, branding the crisis as an “economic disruptor”.
Govt renews 52-week jobs initiative for year
The government is renewing its 52-week jobs initiative with a pledge to “re-engage” those of the 1,000 participants who received “satisfactory” reports from their employers and ministries.
Bahamas must ‘come to grips’ with FATF realities
THE DNA’s former leader says The Bahamas must “come to grips” with the fact that its efforts to comply with global financial services regulatory demands will “never be enough”.
Intellectual property key as WTO awaits
More than 30 Bahamian entrepreneurs have been equipped with tools to assist their venture’s development by protecting its intellectual property.
Swimming pigs come back home
The film based on Exuma’s swimming pigs has arrived back home to screenings in The Bahamas following stops in Fort Lauderdale and at the Cannes International Film Festival.
