Friday, December 30
Tributes paid in final farewell to Andrew 'Dud' Maynard
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis with other officials joined the family and friends of Andrew “Dud” Maynard in a final farewell to the former parliamentarian at his funeral on Friday.
Large crowd expected at Grand Bahama Junkanoo parade
DOWNTOWN Freeport will come alive on Monday as some nine Junkanoo groups will be participating in the 2023 New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade in Grand Bahama.
Man admits attacking woman, damaging her phone
A MAN was placed on six months' probation on Friday after admitting attacking a woman and damaging her phone.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Finding our roots, literally
THE very word farming conjures up physical images. Words like honest labour, grit, sweat on the brow, God’s green earth. Its words are prayer-like -- praying for good weather and absence of insects that eat what you are growing before you can harvest it.
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION: Break the status quo
REFLECTING on 2022, one of the most significant milestones for One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) was our organisation’s 10th anniversary, celebrated on April 22nd (Earth Day.)
‘No interruption’ to New Year Junkanoo broadcast
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg is satisfied that after a meeting with stakeholders, both Cable Bahamas and ZNS will broadcast the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade without interruption.
Respects paid to ‘Dud’ Maynard
OFFICIALS yesterday remembered the life and legacy of former parliamentarian Andrew “Dud” Maynard, calling him someone who valued country over politics.
‘Anti-corruption laws need to be a national priority’
A GOVERNANCE reformer said yesterday that anti-corruption legislation is a key piece of law that needs to be put forward, adding it has not been made a national priority.
Barricade removal ‘poses risk to motorists’
THE removal of the barricade that had prevented access to Williams Town by way of the beach access road at Bahama Terrace poses a safety risk to motorists traversing the area, a Grand Bahama Port Authority official is warning.
FNM agrees with IDB on inflation measures
FREE National Movement officials yesterday agreed with a recent report from the Inter- American Development Bank calling the measures taken by the government to combat inflation not beneficial to small businesses and low income families.
Respiratory illness triage is resumed at South Beach Clinic
THE South Beach Health Centre (SBHC) has resumed triage services for people suffering from respiratory illness, the Ministry of Health advised yesterday.
Treasure Cay sewerage problem ‘not abandoned’ - but contractor gone on holiday for Christmas
SEWERAGE is again backing up again at Treasure Cay, leaving residents exasperated – but the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) says it has not abandoned them. However, WSC says the contractor may be on his Christmas holiday.
Ten percent cost cut for digital payments planned
A digital payments provider is targeting 10 percent reduction in merchant service cost for the 1,5000 merchants signed up with the Lotus Rewards programme within the first year.
Christmas business is a cut above for hairdressers
Hair salons and beauticians saw a “serious upsurge” in business this Christmas season, forcing people to make deposits up to a month in advance to have appointment space during Christmas week.
UPDATED: Ministry gives update on MV Onego Traveller
The Ministry of Transport and Housing has issued an update on MV Onego Traveller:
Call to digitise NIB and raise age of retirement
THE National Insurance Board (NIB) must be digitised and the age of retirement raised to save the fund from collapse, a top insurance executive has warned.
‘Difficult decisions’ must be made, warns Minnis
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday warned that the Davis administration will have to make some difficult decisions with the Bahamian public in mind, just as he did during the pandemic two years ago with regard to the depleted state of the NIB fund.
Charity alarm at bid to take back FTX donations
LOCAL charities are shocked to learn that the collapsed cryptocurrency exchange FTX has announced they are seeking the return of donations made by its former management.
FTX’S $3.5BN HELD ‘FOR SAFEKEEPING’: Value of assets controlled by Securities Commission is confirmed in statement
MORE than $3.5bn worth of digital assets from FTX Digital Markets have been transferred to digital wallets that are now under the control of the Securities Commission of The Bahamas “for safekeeping”, it was revealed last night.
Bail denied for man charged with stealing 30ft boat
A MAN was denied bail after it was alleged that he had stolen a 30ft boat worth over $100K earlier this year.
PROVIDENCE STORM BASKETBALL HOLIDAY CLASSIC: Championship Day
The Providence Storm Basketball Club’s 2022 Holiday Classic will come down to one final day of competition today when the champions will be decided in the senior boys and girls and junior girls divisions at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.
The top sports stories of the year 2022
“LET’S play ball” was the familiar call of the umpire as the Bahamas Baseball Association finally got to play its first official game in the newly and long-awaited constructed Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.
Coleby brothers ‘are not your ordinary siblings’
IT’S unusual to see two brothers playing together at the international level, but all things concerned, Kadeem and Dwight (Jr) Coleby are not your ordinary siblings.
‘GREATEST OF ALL TIME’: SPORTS STAR AND CULTURAL ICON PELÉ DIES AT 82
SAO PAULO (AP) — Pelé will be famous for 15 centuries.
Fisherman jailed for unlicenced gun
A FISHERMAN from Andros was sentenced to 18 months in prison yesterday after admitting to having an unlicenced gun, which he said he bought to protect himself at sea.
$1,000 fine over knife and giving fake name to police
A MAN was fined $1,000 in court yesterday after admitting to having a knife in public and giving a fake name to a police officer.
Bail over gun threat
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court after being accused of threatening a woman with a gun on Boxing Day.
Banking problems
One has to take what the Central Bank and the Commercial Banks tell us with a pinch of salt I think.
Priority projects must be rolled out
In short order, 2022 would have rolled out and many of us will be greeting 2023 with great expectations and open arms, as we should.
Thursday, December 29
MV Onego Traveller in distress
The Ministry of Transport & Housing is advising the public that MV Onego Traveller is in distress around Hole in the Wall, South Abaco.
STATESIDE – Halfway through his first term: Biden and the immigration issue
US President Joe Biden is halfway through his first term in the nation’s top job. After an initial boost in favourable poll ratings and with TV and other media pundits, Biden began to slip, until earlier this year he achieved a dubious distinction when he sank “under water” with less than 50 percent approval ratings in the polls. Oddly, Donald Trump and “his” Supreme Court have rescued Biden twice.
FRONT PORCH: Reading critical to human development
THE Brothers Grimm, German academics and authors in the late 18th century and early 19th century, became world famous for their piquant and complex folklores, fairy tales and oral tales, which offered object and classical lessons about morality and ethics and the struggle of humanity in every generation to become more civil, humane and less barbarous.
EDITORIAL: Kicking the can again over NIB
ANOTHER year is coming to an end with no resolution to the thorny problem of what to do about our diminishing National Insurance Board fund.
‘High hopes’ of increase in margins for gas dealers
THE vice president of the Bahamas Petroleum Dealers Association said he has “high hopes” that the government will address the issue of the long-awaited margin increase.
Pintard: Govt must focus on good governance
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said government must become more focused on good governance in 2023.
Cable Bahamas accuses broadcasting corporation of breaching terms
CABLE Bahamas Ltd has accused the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas of breaching the terms of its broadcasting conditions for the Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade.
More than 300 percent rise in tourism in November over previous year
THE tourism sector continued its “robust” growth in November, according to the Central Bank of The Bahamas’ monthly economic and financial developments report - with arrivals up by an astonishing 341.5 percent from 2021.
Christmas sales back to 2019 levels, say retailers
Retailers are back on par for 2019 with Christmas sales as they look forward to a robust 2023.
Downtown demolition of buildings ‘a fair process’
The demolition of dilapidated downtown buildings is done through a “fair process”, says the Downtown Nassau Partnership (DNP).
State-recognised funeral for Maynard
A STATE-recognised funeral for Andrew “Dud” Maynard will be held on Friday at 11am at St Agnes Anglican Church.
BNT salutes a legend as Carey bows out
THE Bahamas National Trust recently celebrated its outgoing executive director Eric Carey and his legacy at their “Eric’s Final Farewell Event” at Baha Mar.
Govt ‘will defend right to collect overflight fees’
Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper last night said the government will defend the country’s right to collect overflight fees in the face of threats by US airlines to stop flights.
Central Bank wants stricter due diligence to stop another FTX
The Central Bank of The Bahamas has called for stricter due diligence on the transfer of funds in the wake of the FTX collapse.
‘Back to the drawing board’ for Saxons
AFTER a fifth-place finish at this year’s Boxing Day parade, a representative for the Saxons Superstars conceded that the group has to go “back to the drawing board”.
Fishing Hole Bridge closed for safety
THE Fishing Hole Bridge in Grand Bahama was closed on Wednesday evening due to safety concerns because of hazardous driving conditions experienced and engineering issues in the road construction.
Munroe signals aim to speed up court cases
GOVERNMENT is seeking to reintroduce the Swift Justice programme to help speed up court cases, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe said yesterday.
GOVT ‘WILL HAVE TO MAKE NIB DECISION’: Minister insists all options are being considered over fund
MYLES Laroda, Minister of State with responsibility for the National Insurance Board, said yesterday the government will have to make a decision next year concerning the state of NIB’s fund, which he says remains on target to lose about $70m this year.
Stop borrowing and start taxing
Bahamian governments have borrowed literally billions of dollars in the last few years. This money will be paid back by the poor, at whose expense wealthy individuals and corporations will also continue to live essentially tax free. That is the outrageous reality of Bahamian fiscal governance.
Providence Storm Basketball Holiday Classic heats up
ALTHOUGH they are still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Dorian, the Agape Academy Eagles are eager about the full return of sporting activities whether on the island of Abaco or here in the capital.
Candle light vigil held in memory of shortstop Zella Brown-Symonette
TRIBUTES poured in from softball players, the media and family and friends last night as a candle light vigil was held in memory of the late Zella Brown-Symonette, the veteran national team softball player who was considered one of the best female shortstops that ever played the game.
‘BUDDY’ ON TOP: Chavano Hield The Tribune’s Male Athlete of the Year 2022
In what was an unusual year for Bahamas sports, for the first time there were no nominees for the top five spots from track and field.
Man accused of sex with girl, 14
A 23-YEAR-OLD man was sent to prison after being accused of having sex with a 14-year-old girl last week.
Phone robbery suspect remanded
A MAN was remanded sent to prison from the Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with a woman being robbed of her phone in a knife hold-up last week.
Murder accused also faces attempted murder charge
A MAN on bail for murder was remanded to prison yesterday in connection with a recent murder attempt.
FTX email response
This letter to the Editor refers to the Editorial published in The Tribune of an email from Sam Berkman-Friedman, CEO of FTX, asking Attorney General Ryan Pinder of the Bahamas permission to liquidate assets held by Bahamians or residents of the Bahamas. He further tells Attorney General Ryan Pinder that if he does not get a response he is going to do it anyway and the amount mentioned is $100,000,000.
Denika Lightbourne looking ahead to Daytona
POINT guard Denika Lightbourne has had a promising career since she left the Queen’s College Comets in grade nine to continue playing for the Lady Indians at Tallulah Falls School in Tallulah Falls, Georgia.
Age and climate change - the real time machine
AGE/AGEING is the real time machine, created by God Himself and not by man’s ingenuity. Like climate change, to which I am a recent and reluctant adherent, age and aging are real phenomena.
Wednesday, December 28
ALICA WALLACE: Justice for Megan Thee Stallion
IN July 2020, Megan Thee Stallion (legal name Megan Pete) was shot in her foot in Los Angeles. She posted on Instagram: “On Sunday morning, I suffered gunshot wounds, as a result of a crime that was committed against me and done with the intention to physically harm me.”
‘Seek help to resolve conflicts’
AFTER the country’s latest homicide on Thursday, press liaison officer Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings urged residents to seek help in resolving conflicts so that fewer lives are lost this Christmas.
EDITORIAL: Back to Bay Street with a bang
JUNKANOO returned – and it was dazzling.
'Heard it before' on GB airport
The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) president has “heard it all before” on the Grand Bahama International Airport (GBIA) partner being secured and sees the new target date as an extension of the previous date for the end of December, 2022.
ORG suggests changes to procurement laws
The Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG) has given recommendations to the government on amendments to public procurement legislation.
Kovats 'not selling' despite $3bn lawsuit dispute
A developer suing the Bahamas government for $3bn is moving forward with other projects despite the volatility surrounding his interests.
FTX lawyers apply for creditors stay
FTX’s Chapter 11 lawyers applied for a motion for the enforcement of an automatic stay from creditors in FTX proceedings due to shuffling of funds days prior to the chapter 11 filing, new court filings state.
Reformer predicts 'great year' for economy
The New Year is expected to “crystalise the reconsolidation of the economy", says a governance reformer as 2023 foretells a year of “great performance” for the economy.
Three file lawsuit against FTX founder
THREE people have filed a local lawsuit against disgraced former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried and his associated companies.
Protest held outside Miami Consulate
A GROUP of people demonstrated outside the Bahamas’ Miami Consulate office last week calling for information on the whereabouts of their loved ones and over alleged human rights abuses of Cuban detainees at the Carmichael Road Detention Centre.
Grand Bahama ready for Junkanoo return
GRAND Bahama Junkanoo groups are ready for the return of the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade in downtown Freeport after a three-year absence.
TRIPLE CROWN: Shaunae Miller-Uibo The Tribune’s Female Athlete of the Year 2022
With another triple crown to her ledger, Bahamian quarter-miler Shaunae Miller-Uibo emerged as The Tribune’s 2022 Female Athlete of the Year.
Govt aims to tackle inflation
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the government is targeting initiatives to combat inflation after the Inter-American Development Bank criticised officials’ efforts to tackle the problem.
Commissioner: We will take policing to another level
COMMISSIONER of Police Clayton Fernander said in 2023, officials will take policing to “another level”.
Ticket fraud among event challenges
WHILE Junkanoo made its anticipated return on Monday night, there were some challenges that marred the event including ticket fraud.
ONE WINNER: One Family unofficial winner as Junkanoo returns to Bay Street
ONE Family conquered its competitors as the group was declared the unofficial winner of the 2022 Junkanoo Boxing Day Parade yesterday, captivating the judges and crowd with its theme “Rise of the Warriors".
No major incidents reported
POLICE said there were no major incidents at the Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade.
Providence Storm Basketball Club Holiday Classic gets underway
COUPLE OF UPSETS ON DAY 1 OF FOUR-DAY TOURNAMENT
DAY one of the 2022 Providence Storm Basketball Club Holiday Classic saw a couple of upsets from the Jordan Prince Williams Falcons and the Charles W Saunders Crusaders yesterday at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.
McKay: ‘We had a rough start, but our team is getting better over time’
THERE’S nothing like being home for the holidays.
Sydney Clarke donates to children’s hostel
ALTHOUGH she was coming off her loss in the final of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s 2022 Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals, Sydney Clarke was quite upbeat as she showed up with a car full of food items and presents at the Children’s Hostel for her third consecutive Christmas giveaway.
Cameron Riley qualifies for Great Abaco Classic
IN his second appearance on the Bahamas Professional Golf Association fresh from his initial season on the professional circuit, Grand Bahamian Cameron Riley emerged as the champion of the Korn Kerry qualifier for the Great Abaco Classic.
Unfair on Bay Street businesses
Erecting bleachers on Bay Street two weeks before Junkanoo parades is a heartless blow to Bay Street merchants. We have to find a better way. The fourth quarter in the retail cycle of most businesses worldwide is critical to their profitability. I must assume that it’s the same for Bay Street owners and sales clerks.
A child in the cold
The birth of a child has been most dear to me, and I see no difference between each light of joy, Jesus or any other.
Monday, December 26
Basketball standout Rhema Collins prepares for Ole Miss
AS she continues her transition to college, University of Mississippi bound Rhema Collins came home to take advantage of some training from professional player Ryan Moss and veteran women’s coach Anthony Swaby. Moss and Swaby took Collins through a series of workouts yesterday at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium as the 6-foot, 2-inch forward took the break from her final season with the Webb School in Bell Buckle, Tennessee.
Elana Mackey upsets Clarke for ladies’ title
WITH her college roommate as her lucky charm on the sideline cheering her on, Elana Mackey stunned defending champion Sydney Clarke to capture her first Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals women’s title. In the rematch of last year’s final of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s week-long tournament at the National Tennis Centre, Mackey prevailed with an impressive 6-2, 7-5 triumph over Clarke on Thursday.
BLTA Nationals: Denali Nottage takes home men’s crown
One day after enduring his longest match ever to book his ticket to the finals, a well-rested Denali Nottage got his shortest time on the court to hoist the 2022 Giorgio Baldacci Open National Championships. In what he anticipated to be an early present for his 19th birthday on Saturday, Nottage, fully regrouped from his three-set thriller over fellow Grand Bahamian Rodney Carey Jr on Wednesday, only played one game against Kevin Major Jr before he was crowned the new champion.
Crowds turn out for Junkanoo parade
After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Boxing Day parade is back on Bay Street. Thousands of people turned out to experience the sweet sound of Junkanoo once again.
Complaint over "intrusion" on Junkanoo broadcast
THE executive chairman of the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas, Picewell Forbes, has accused Rev Cable Bahamas and Aliv of an “intrusion” on the broadcast of the 2022 Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade.
Man hunted after high-speed chase
A MAN is being hunted by police after a high-speed chase after he fired a gun towards a security guard and damaged a business establishment in the Marathon Road area on Friday.
One dead and multiple injuries after incident that led to police shooting
AN incident at a nightclub on Boxing Day morning led to multiple injuries before an off-duty police officer intervened and shot a man, who later died.
Sunday, December 25
UPDATE: Boxing Day Junkanoo postponed plus latest weather forecast
THE Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade has been postponed due to the weather.
Saturday, December 24
Police investigating armed robbery in Freeport
Grand Bahama Police are investigating an armed robbery in the Freeport area that has resulted in a male victim being stabbed and robbed of cash.
Court filing sheds light on FTX fund transfers
FTX’s Chapter 11 lawyers applyed for a motion for the enforcement of an automatic stay from creditors in FTX proceedings due to shuffling of funds days prior to the chapter 11 filing, new court filings state.
Friday, December 23
Officials looking to tackle Lake View Road sewage issue
THE Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) on Friday said officials were actively working to address the overflow of sewerage in the Lake View Road area.
Back to school for PM as Class of '68 hands over donation
PRIME Minister Philip "Brave" Davis returned to his school days with a visit to St John's College, as the school received a donation of $160,000 on Friday from its class of 1968.
Police warn 'be careful on the roads'
POLICE press liaison officer Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings has urged Bahamians to be cautious on the roads and not to drink and drive this holiday season.
Grand Bahama ready for Junkanoo return
GRAND Bahama Junkanoo groups are ready for the return of the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade in downtown Freeport after a three-year absence.
Police out in force for Junkanoo
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Craig Stubbs said on Friday that there will be more than 800 law enforcement officers at the upcoming Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade as well as road closures, strict screening and security measures for persons entering the parade route.
Police call to resolve conflicts following latest murder
AFTER the country’s latest homicide on Thursday, press liaison officer Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings urged residents to seek help in resolving conflicts so that fewer lives are lost this Christmas.
US man accused over gun
AN American man was granted $12,500 in cash bail in Magistrate’s Court after being accused of bringing a gun into the country last week.
Threat to harm claimed
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court after being accused of threatening to harm another man.
$5,000 fine for marijuana possession
TWO MEN and a woman were in court last week on two separate drug charges. One of the men faced a $5,000 fine after admitting having 5lb of marijuana.
Man accused of stealing phone at gunpoint
A MAN was remanded to prison by the Magistrate’s Court after being accused of stealing a woman’s cash and phone at gunpoint earlier this month.
COLUMN: My Bahamian journey
MY first visit to The Bahamas took place nearly twenty years ago, in the spring of 2003. But when I reminisce over the twists and turns my life has taken over the years, I realize that the journey that would eventually lead me to forge a lifelong connection to The Bahamas started many years earlier, during my last year of college in January of 1988.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Rising to support brothers in need
ON Friday, December 16, the story of brotherly love was the subject of this column. It was the story of two brothers named Lorenzo and Devon Knowles, Long Islanders who came to Nassau to work 15 years ago and for most of those years worked through, or in some connection with, the late Sir Durward Knowles, the first eight years at Queen’s College, later at Montagu Gardens restaurant until it closed. They often worked multiple jobs. After Sir Durward died, they scraped by doing odd jobs, looking after a parking lot, washing dishes at other restaurants, cobbling together a few dollars daily to feed themselves, sometimes going hungry, always faithful to church and Bible study, even when they walked in the rain to get there.
LETTER: If He had not died
Many people are bent out of shape over the true meaning of Christmas. Some say that it represents a pagan season. Others say that the birth, death and resurrection of The Lord Jesus Christ are merely mumbo-jumbo. Yet, a few more alleged that Christmas is representative of “the day of the Sun“. If any of the foregoing is true or false really means nothing to me one way or the other. The facts are the facts.
LETTER: Ride out your storm
Next time a sunrise steals your breath or a meadow of flowers leaves you speechless, remain that way. Say nothing and listen as heaven whispers, “Do you like it? I did it just for you.”
‘Unprecedented’: Hotel staff enjoyed slow season boost ‘unpred
Many hotel staff worked “unprecedented” five-day weeks during the tourism season’s slowest months, a union leader revealed yesterday, as he bids to complete multiple new industrial agreements in early 2023.
Bahamas shrugs off FTX for perfect ‘40 out of 40’
The Bahamas yesterday shrugged off FTX’s implosion through what the attorney general hailed as the “enormous accomplishment” of a perfect score in the fight against financial crime.
Realtor has ‘never seen such high rental rates’
A Bahamian realtor says he has “never seen such high rental rates” as now exist in some of western New Providence’s most upscale communities with demand in this segment now suppressing available-for-sale inventory.
Investor seeking $2.7bn in South Ocean dispute
A controversial Austrian investor is pledging to seek an extraordinary $2.7bn in damages if his attempted acquisition of New Providence’s 384-acre South Ocean resort is ultimately thwarted.
Ex-AG: Don’t let ‘proper’ FTX collapse probe slide
A former attorney general yesterday warned The Bahamas against letting a “proper probe” into FTX’s implosion slide because of its perfect score in the financial crime fight and Sam Bankman-Fried’s departure.
EDITORIAL: Help all Bahamians to have a better Christmas
CHRISTMAS is almost here. For many, right now this means a flurry of last-minute shopping, popping up the final decorations, sitting down and wrapping presents.
Man in hospital after stabbing
A 54-year-old man is in hospital after he was stabbed on Wednesday.
Boys in court over knife discovery
TWO boys were in court yesterday after being allegedly found with a knife at their high school earlier this month.
Psychological test for theft accused
A MAN was ordered to have psychological evaluation after being sent to prison on a shop-breaking charge.
Man accused over failed murder bid
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday in connection with a failed murder attempt outside a bar on East Bay Street last week.
New EMS HQ ‘to reduce response times’
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said a new headquarters for the National Emergency Medical Services should help to improve emergency response times in certain areas of New Providence.
Cooper: Developments must meet the required environment regulations
IN response to environmentalists’ concerns about the $250m resort and cruise port planned for Long Island, Tourism Minister Chester Cooper maintained yesterday that any development approved by the government will not begin major construction until it meets the required environmental safety regulations.
Released from prison - only to be shot dead
A MAN who was recently released from prison was shot dead yesterday.
Ministry says it is tackling flooding near Cable Beach
THE Works Ministry said it is addressing ongoing flooding issues in an area near Cable Beach following recent complaints.
No drop in sales for festive season
SANTA has come early for some Bahamian retailers, who said they have seen no decrease in sales so far for the holiday season, despite some local shipping issues.
Cooper: We’re not going to take part in the recession
DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper brushed off talks of a possible recession as he pointed to strong tourism bookings for next year.
PMH renovation to start ‘next week’
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said renovations at Princess Margaret Hospital will begin as early as the beginning of next week.
Bankman-Fried granted $250m bail by US court
ONE day after being extradited to the United States, Samuel Bankman-Fried, former CEO of the failed cryptocurrency exchange FTX, was released on a $250m bond while he awaits trial on several fraud charges.
Crowds in GB for hot meals
GRAND Bahama residents turned out in large numbers at the Bahamas Union of Teachers building in Freeport yesterday for hot meals distributed by United Faith Ministries International.
Thursday, December 22
STATESIDE: Still a distance to go on women's equality
1972 is usually regarded as a seminal moment in the American women’s movement for greater equality of opportunity, since that was the year of what has simply become known as Title Nine.
FRONT PORCH: The light which is the essence of Christmas
CHRISTMAS is a time to celebrate and to reflect on the Incarnation, God’s very personal and redeeming gift in the person of Jesus Christ.
Gas station warning of New Year lay-offs
A gas station operator yesterday warned the 24 percent minimum wage increase will “almost certainly” force the sector to cut staffing levels unless the Government grants a long-awaited margin increase.
$30,000 donation to support Junkanoo from KFC
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg said the upcoming Junkanoo parade, which is completely sold out, will be “finger licking good” due to a $30,000 donation from Kentucky Fried Chicken yesterday.
‘Talk is cheap’ on resort’s green pledge
A LOCAL environmentalist said “talk is cheap” as she questioned the promise from officials of a multimillion-dollar Long Island project to act within environmental safety regulations.
‘I want Schooner Bay progress’, says ex-PM
An ex-prime minister yesterday asserted he wants to see “progress and development” at an Abaco community once held up as sustainable development model following its baffling break with a former management partner.
Water Corp: $1.2m claim was resort financing ploy
The Water & Sewerage Corporation has defeated a $1.227m damages claim for trespass that it alleges was merely a ploy attempting to force it to finance a planned Andros eco-resort.
‘Breath of fresh air’: 150k cruise arrivals over Xmas
The Downtown Nassau Partnership’s (DNP) co-chair yesterday hailed the increase in cruise ship traffic as a “breath of fresh air” for business with close to 150,000 passenger arrivals forecast for Christmas week.
Major Jr and Nottage face off in men’s final
It will be youth versus experience and Grand Bahama vs New Providence when rising teenager Denali Nottage faces former champion Kevin Major Jr in the men’s final of the 2022 Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals. The tournament, hosted by the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association, will come to a close today at the National Tennis Centre when the women’s champions will be decided as well in a rematch of last year’s finals between champion Sydney Clarke and runners-up Elana Mackey.
Cousins making their presence felt at Nationals
WHEN they are not playing each other or teaming up together in doubles, close cousins Saphire and Breann Ferguson are on the sidelines cheering for one another. The daughters of two brothers - Barron and Bjorn Ferguson - recalled how they got introduced to the sport of tennis by their grandfather Roscoe Ferguson, whom they call “pappa.”
Sparks Rowing Camp set for December 27-30
DURING the Christmas holiday, instead of taking time off to relax and enjoy the festivities, the Nassau Rowing Club will be busy entertaining the Sparks Rowing Camp for the second consecutive year. The camp, scheduled for December 27-30, will be staged at the NRC’s headquarters at Oaks Hills Road, according to Kyle Chea, the president of the association.
Guilty of stealing $2,000 of clothes
A MAN was fined $1,000 in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after admitting to stealing over $2,000 worth of clothing and shoes this week.
Man accused over firearm
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after he was accused of having an unlicenced gun in Eleuthera last week.
Gas prices on the way down ‘for first quarter’
THE vice president of the Bahamas Petroleum Dealers Association said gas prices are trending downwards, something he expects to continue leading into the first quarter of the new year.
Grocers president agrees with IDB on price controls
THE president of the Retail Grocers Association said recent commentary from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) on the negative impact of expanded price controls on businesses is “spot on”.
‘Worst Christmas ever’ say straw market vendors
DESPITE heavy tourism traffic downtown before the holidays, straw vendors say they are experiencing their worst Christmas season to date, with few to no sales most days.
Renovations on national stadium start next month
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg said yesterday that renovations to the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium are set to begin in the first week of January.
Large crowd turns out for Fox Foundation food giveaway
THERE was a large turnout at the sports centre grounds yesterday for a food voucher giveaway organised by the Fox Foundation.
Plan to feed 3,000 in Grand Bahama today
A major effort is underway to feed some 3,000 people today in Grand Bahama through an initiative called Operation Christmas.
PM: Challenges made us stronger
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis extended Christmas greetings and offered well wishes to Bahamians in a video released by the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday.
Wednesday, December 21
FTX founder extradited
EMBATTLED former FTX CEO Samuel Bankman-Fried was extradited to the United States yesterday after formally waiving his right to an extradition hearing.
Don’t Blink Home Run Derby continues to grow
WHEN they got the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby started in 2018, neither Todd Isaacs Jr nor Lucius Fox envisioned that the event would become such a spectacular for the world to see in the Bahamas. The duo not only assemble the best talent available in the professional baseball ranks in the Major League affiliations and now there’s a wide range of celebrities coming on board to participate in the week-long festivities.
IDB brands price controls ‘poorly targeted subsidy’
The Government’s price controls are a poorly-targeted mechanism to counter soaring 16 percent food inflation as they benefit the rich as much as low income and vulnerable families, a multilateral lender is arguing.
‘Unenviable balancing act’ confronting The Bahamas
The Bahamas “faces an unenviable balancing act between food security and fiscal discipline”, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) warned yesterday, with global financial developments proving “particularly concerning”.
Hoopfest in Paradise: ‘We’re looking forward to an even bigger draw’ in 2023
ORGANISER Glenn Smith was so impressed with the initial staging of the Hoopfest in Paradise High School Basketball Tournament over the weekend that they are already looking at returning for the second edition in 2023. Smith, who serves as president of Hoopfest in Paradise Basketball Incorporated, said they were able to display some top-notch basketball competition with some of the top stars coming in from the United States.
CCA: We’ll ‘be laughed at by world’ if Baha Mar not open
Top executives at Baha Mar’s main contractor voiced fears they would “be laughed at by the world” if the mega resort’s target 2015 opening was missed while admitting to multiple “shortcomings and deficiencies” in its construction.
Insurers: Don’t sleep on EU blacklisting ‘breathing room’
The Bahamas must not fall asleep after it gained “two years’ breathing room” to escape the European Union’s (EU) tax blacklist and preserve up to 40 percent of its hurricane reinsurance capacity, insurers are warning.
ALICIA WALLACE: Handling the holidays
IN just a few days, Christmas Day will be here and we will all hear people saying some version of, “All that, and one day and it’s over.” The build-up to Christmas is long, everyone seems to be frantic, and everything is expensive and time-consuming. Many resources go into planning and executing Christmas activities, and for many of us, it is all an untouchable, unchangeable practice, but what if we took a step back?
Sydney Clarke vs Elena Mackey in final of BLTA Open Nationals on Thursday
Top seeds Sydney Clarke and Elana Mackey, home from college for the holidays, booked their spots in the women’s final of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s 2022 Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals. The duo advanced to the final set for Thursday at the National Tennis Centre after they breezed through their semifinal matches yesterday.
‘Lots of muscle’ required for $142m toxic BOB pile
The Bank of The Bahamas bail-out vehicle must now employ “lots of muscle” to recover its remaining “toxic” loan collateral valued at $142m, its chairman revealed yesterday.
Long Islanders ‘excited’ by $250m resort and port
LONG Island’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday praised the impending construction of a $250m resort and cruise port on the island and described it as “exciting”.
'Historic' year for tourism ahead
BAHAMAS Hotel and Tourism Association president Robert Sands said The Bahamas is set to see an “historic” level of visitor arrivals next year while bookings for most hotels in New Providence this holiday season and throughout the new year remain strong.
Police officer in a coma after 'jumping from car'
FAMILY and close friends of a police officer who allegedly jumped from a moving vehicle this week have launched a GoFundMe page to assist with his medical expenses.
100,000 meals a month to feed those in need
BAHAMAS Feeding Network is providing up to 100,000 meals a month, supporting more than 100 local feeding programmes.
Donations suffering a slump, say charities
WITH Christmas days away, several nonprofit organisations are appealing for assistance as some say donations are in a slump.
Two face court over alleged cutlass attack
TWO men were granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with an alleged cutlass attack.
Baha Mar backing the Valley Boys
MEGA resort Baha Mar is continuing its years-long partnership with the Valley Boys Junkanoo group and is the group’s primary sponsor for the nearly sold-out Boxing Day parade and the 2023 New Year’s Day parade.
20 out of 23 unpaid nurses have now received pay
THE demand for unpaid salaries did not fall on deaf ears, as the Bahamas Nurses Union president confirmed that 20 of the 23 nurses who were owed money from the beginning of the year have now been paid.
Accused of injuring man
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being accused of injuring a man earlier this week.
Counselling order after father attacked
A MAN was placed on probation and ordered to attend counselling yesterday after admitting to attacking his father and another man last week.
The stories of our nation as anthology is launched
THE Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture marked a major milestone this week with the launch of its first anthology of short stories. The book features the work of more than 30 Bahamian writers and authors.
Ayton has monster double double with 30 points, 13 rebounds
PHOENIX (AP) — Kyle Kuzma scored 29 points and the Washington Wizards stopped their 10-game losing streak last night, beating the Phoenix Suns 113-110. Deandre Ayton scored 30 - five points shy of his career high - and grabbed 13 rebounds with a blocked shot in 32 minutes on the floor for the Suns. He had 12 points and five rebounds at halftime.
BLTA Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals men’s semifinal set for today
THE men’s semifinal of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s 2022 Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals is scheduled to be played this morning at the National Tennis Centre between two familiar names and two surprise entries from Grand Bahama. On one half of the draw, top seed Kevin Major Jr will take on veteran Davis Cupper Marvin Rolle and the other will be a showcase between former Davis Cupper Rodney Carey and Denali Nottage.
Tuesday, December 20
Berry Islands hail new airport as ‘huge step up from shack’
BERRY Island businesses yesterday hailed their new airport as a “huge step up” that promises to revive the tourism economy.
DPM: GB airport ground breaking set for Q1 2023
THE Deputy Prime Minister yesterday voiced optimism that the ground- breaking for Grand Bahama International Airport’s (GBIA) redevelopment will take place in the 2023 rst quarter once the Government approves its new operator.
Mariposa Gold Drops win first horse show of the year
THE Bahamas Interscholastic Equestrian League (BIEL) swung back into action last weekend, holding its first show of the year at Mariposa Stables. Four teams comprised of 20 young riders from different schools participated in the competition, which was won by the Mariposa Gold Drops.
Eagan Neely crowned Athlete of the Year
ALL of the sacrifices and hard work paid off for Eagan Neely as he was crowned the Red-Line Athletics Club’s 20022 Athlete of the Year. The honour was bestowed upon the 14-year-old sprinter during the club’s Christmas party and awards ceremony that was held at the National Training Agency on Sunday.
BLTA Nationals: Sydney Clarke, Elena Mackey lead the charge
COLLEGIANS Sydney Clarke and Elana Mackey, the top seeded players, led the charge for the ladies during day one of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals at the National Tennis Centre yesterday. Top seed Clarke, a senior at the University of Arlington at Birmingham, pulled of a hard fought 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 win over Simone Pratt, while Mackey, the No.2 seed, easily secured a 6-0, 6-0 triumph over Saphirre Ferguson.
Ayton has double double, Suns roll past Lakers 130-104
PHOENIX (AP) — Chris Paul scored a season-high 28 points, Deandre Ayton added 21 points and 11 rebounds and the Phoenix Suns rolled past the Los Angeles Lakers 130-104 last night.
FINA: 5 national records posted
THE Bahamas’ five-member team at the 16th FINA (World Swimming Federation) Short Course (25m) World Championships in Melbourne, Australia, posted five national records with Lamar Taylor inking his name on three and Luke-Kennedy Thompson got a pair.
BLTA Nationals: Major, Rolle advance
After knocking off collegian Donte Armbrister in a three-set thriller, high school sensation Michael Major Jr didn’t have anything left in the tank as he went down in two straight sets to number one seed Kevin Major Jr. With a couple players opting out of competition, Major Jr was the only player to have to play a pair of matches yesterday as the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association kicked off the 2022 Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals at the National Tennis Centre.
LETTER: Keeping children safe
While the holidays are a joyful time of the year for many of us, however, this is also the time of the year when a child is more vulnerable, and at an increased risk of being abused.
LETTER: Village Road fiasco
Hard to believe really that discussions on multi-million resorts are seemingly right on the table and at the same time the shocking total mess that is Village Road is given very little air time.
LETTER: Pop Band is unfair competition
I am a Grand Bahamian singer, song writer, musician, entertainer, artist manager, record producer, former collective bargaining agency leader and a concerned citizen.
Man accused of stealing $10k from restaurant
A MAN accused of breaking into a restaurant on West Bay Street and stealing $10,000 was sent to prison overnight.
Man denies gun possession
IN the Magistrate’s Court yesterday, a man denied possession of a loaded firearm.
Bail violation claimed
A MAN was granted $6,000 bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after he allegedly failed to charge the ankle bracelet with which he was outfitted on an earlier armed robbery charge.
FACE TO FACE: Reaching out to stop the path to violence
THE young boy growing up in the inner city streets of New Providence is at risk of becoming a statistic - one who ends up in jail or dead on the streets. But he is also a child with limitless potential - one who could change the world for the better.
Sarkis loss ‘over $3bn’ if Baha Mar hit targets
Sarkis Izmirlian would so far have “lost more than $3bn” in potential profits alone if the Baha Mar resort from which he was ousted hit his financial projections, an analyst’s report has calculated.
PETER YOUNG: New vision revealed for British foreign policy
AS another year comes to an end and people anticipate a new one, it is traditional to look forward with optimism to better times, both for the lives of individuals and in relation to global affairs.
Skills transfer woe still a ‘sad reality’
The Bahamas must change “the sad reality” that key skills and knowledge are not being passed on to local workers by expatriate work permit holders, a prominent contractor argued yesterday.
FTX shows Bahamas can’t ‘live or die’ by one investor
Governance reformers are arguing that FTX’s implosion further reinforces that there is “no silver bullet to solve our economic growth issues coming out of Dorian and COVID-19”.
Insurers: ‘Light at end of tunnel’ over taxation
Bahamian insurers yesterday voiced relief that there is “light at the end of the tunnel” after the Government said it would drop plans to move the industry to a Business Licence fee taxation regime.
CCA: Sarkis ‘inflaming anti-Chinese sentiment’
Baha Mar’s main contractor has accused Sarkis Izmirlian of “a nakedly xenophobic attempt to inflame anti-Chinese sentiment” while asserting there is “no evidence” it misused $54m to acquire the then-British Colonial Hilton.
New Year tests for students nationwide
EDUCATION Minister Glenys Hanna Martin said she hopes to start the new year by testing students nationwide for any learning loss issues following the pandemic.
Family Island teachers ‘paid what they’re owed’
ACTING Education Director Dominique Russell said that 19 teachers assigned to the Family Islands who were waiting for financial support and payment received what they were owed yesterday.
‘Be careful at holidays as murder rate soars’
AN activist has called on residents to be careful this holiday season due to the country’s escalating murder count, saying people have stopped valuing the lives of others.
Police probe launched as man ‘jumps from moving vehicle’
POLICE said they are investigating the circumstances surrounding an incident where a man received significant head injuries after he reportedly jumped from a moving vehicle.
PM: No preference on where Bankman-Fried should be tried
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said yesterday that the government has no preference on where disgraced former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried should be tried for his alleged involvement in defrauding customers and investors.
Woman knocked down at Paradise Island bridge
A woman was knocked down yesterday in the area of the Paradise Island bridge.
Prison chief: Bankman-Fried ready to leave
ACTING Commissioner of Corrections Doan Cleare said that while former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried is not “uncomfortable” in the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services, he seems ready to leave the country.
Mitchell hits back over ‘attacks’ on Bahamas over FTX
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell questioned how “attacking” The Bahamas helps resolve the FTX saga and dismissed claims of the country’s jurisdiction being nontransparent.
Warning over severe weather
SEVERE weather is expected in the northwest Bahamas tomorrow due to a passing low-pressure system.
Ground broken on $250m Long Island port
AZUL Destinations broke ground yesterday for the construction of a $250m resort and cruise port for south Long Island.
UPDATED: Sam Bankman-Fried waives right to fight extradition – FTX founder will go to the US
AFTER a confusing day in court, Sam Bankman-Fried has decided not to fight extradition to the United States, his attorneys announced yesterday.
Monday, December 19
INSIGHT: Yesterday’s PM in spotlight for wrong reasons
WHEN considering the issues of the day, it’s often easy to look at what is going on with government.
Bran: ‘Don’t abandon’ digital assets on FTX
The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) former leader is urging The Bahamas not to “abandon” the digital assets industry in the wake of FTX’s implosion but instead promote the jurisdiction with “even more vigour”.
‘Permit restricted US dollar holdings without approval’
Bahamians should be permitted to hold a limited amount of US dollars in their account without needing Central Bank approval as part of wider reforms to the commercial banking industry, a report has recommended.
Hoopfest Tournament a blast with top high school teams from US
WITH a little more time to work with their teams, coaches for both the New Providence and Grand Bahama All-Stars feel as if they could have had better showings against the Miami Northwestern High School in the Hoopfest High School Tournament at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium over the weekend. On Friday, the New Providence All-Stars got off to a slow start and ended up getting routed 71-36 by Miami. On Saturday, the Grand Bahama All-Stars got off to a good start, but couldn’t maintain their composure, losing 66-47 to Miami.
Bahamas Bowl: Blazers take title to UAB
THE University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers, the athletic programme that features Bahamian star Sydney Clarke on their women’s tennis team, came back to town on Friday and took home the 2022 HomeTown Lenders Bahamas Bowl football title. The Blazers, with the go-ahead touchdown from Jermaine Brown Jr on 4th-and-1 with one minute and 33 seconds left, held on as Rennard Ellis tackled Jalen Walker at the 1-yard line on the final play of the game that was sealed with kicker Matt Quinn booting in the extra point for a 24-20 win over Miami (Ohio) RedHawks at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
BJ Murray III wins Home Run Derby
POWER hitting third baseman Bertram Murray III, coming off an impressive year in the Chicago Cubs minor league baseball organisation, capped off the first All-Bahamian final to become the first home grown player to capture the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby title. In a dramatic showdown as the fifth edition of the event returned from Paradise Island to the Montagu shores, Murray, better known as ‘Deeja,’ out-slugged Trent ‘T-Money’ Deveaux 9-8 in the final of the country’s biggest event that highlighted the majority of the players playing in the minor leagues or in college.
Road to 2023 Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup
SOME exciting matches are scheduled today as The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) kicks off the Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals at the National Tennis Centre until December 22. The Bahamas’ top athletes will compete to not only be crowned national champion but to also be a part of the 2023 Davis Cup (men) and the 2023 Billie Jean King Cup (BJK women).
NPBA to end year on Wednesday
THE New Providence Basketball Association will complete the year with games on tap tonight and Wednesday at the AF Adderley Gymnasium before taking a break for the Christmas holiday. The league will return to action on January 4.
Putting its best coat on
THE ELBOW Reef Lighthouse Society has nearly completed the repainting of its lighthouse tower’s famous red and white stripes.
INSIGHT: Sir Ronald Sanders - Travel within the Caribbean in crisis
THE closure of LIAT in 2020, without establishing air transport to fill the vacuum, has led to chaos in regional transportation, gravely affecting the movement of people and goods throughout the Caribbean region.
INSIGHT: The KDK REPORT - The platinum gatekeeper
THE opportunity to age gracefully is something that I suspect all human beings long for. Where the differences materialise, however, is in the age we’d like to achieve before dying. Some say 75, while the majority respond somewhere in their 80s or 90s. Rarely does anyone say 100, thinking that it’s too far-fetched to even conceive.
Knicks rally to beat Buddy Hield and Pacers for 7th straight victory
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Jalen Brunson scored 30 points, Julius Randle made six free throws in the final minute and the New York Knicks beat the Indiana Pacers 109-106 yesterday for their NBA-best seventh consecutive victory. The 19th and final lead change came in the final minute, when Randle made two foul shots with 45.6 seconds remaining for a 105-104 lead. After the teams exchanged turnovers, Randle hit four more free throws in the final two possessions. The Pacers missed a shot from just inside half-court at the buzzer. Buddy Hield and Aaron Nesmith each had 23 points for Indiana. Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Haliburton each added 15.
BPL fuel hike: Pintard asserts URCA ‘endorses’ law breach
The Opposition’s leader is challenging whether electricity regulators are “endorsing” Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) breaking the law by asserting it has made an “adequate case” to hike its fuel charge by up to 163 percent.
Sears to meet Village Road business owners
WORKS and Utilities Minister Alfred Sears has committed to meeting Village Road business owners next month to discuss an economic stimulus plan after confirming the road repair will be delayed until the first week of January.
Activists welcome court victory for Jean Rony
A LOCAL advocacy group is celebrating a decision by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council to send the Jean Rony Jean-Charles case back to the Supreme Court for consideration of an application of constitutional aid.
‘FTX collapse nothing to do with The Bahamas’
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis has once again insisted that the collapse of FTX has nothing to do with The Bahamas, saying “you don’t blame the jurisdiction, you blame the bad actors”.
Berry Islands tourism boom expected after airport opening
OFFICIALS anticipate a big boom in tourism on Great Harbour Cay in the Berry Islands due to the opening of a new international airport.
PM: Murder rate ‘unacceptable’
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said his administration is concerned about the nation’s escalating murder rate, but is hopeful that their crime fighting initiatives will start “bearing fruit” soon.
Two women killed in traffic accidents
TWO women were killed in separate traffic accidents on the weekend, one in New Providence and the other in Grand Bahama.
Call for govt probe after barge sinks
LOCAL environmentalists are calling for government to launch investigations into a sunken barge that was spotted off Goodman’s Bay last week, citing concerns about its potential environmental impact.
‘Real concern’ about $800m project’s environment impact
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president says there is a “real area of concern” about the potential environmental impact from an $800m mixed-use resort project targeted at South Abaco.
CCA: WE SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF BAHAMAS – Contractor reached out for help to son of top govt advisor
Baha Mar's main contractor asked the son of Perry Christie's top policy adviser to intervene when his father proposed changing The Pointe's Heads of Agreement over how many Bahamian construction workers would be employed.
Rocky Road
ActivTrades
Several important interest rate decisions, and accompanying statements by the central banks, are depressing the stock market mood.
23 nurses ‘not paid since start of the year’
BAHAMAS Nurses Union president Amancha Williams is disappointed her members have not been paid the money owed to them by the government.
DEREK SMITH: Don’t ignore risks with digital assets
According to the International Association of Compliance (ICA), “the global virtual assets regulatory landscape is a patchwork of differing approaches, reflecting, in turn, the cultural, political and social differences of many different jurisdictions”.
Sunday, December 18
Messi wins World Cup, Argentina beats France on penalties
LUSAIL, Qatar (AP) — Lionel Messi’s once-in-a-generation career is complete. The Argentina superstar is finally a World Cup champion.
Saturday, December 17
Man held after shooting incident
A 25-year-old man is in police custody following a shooting incident that left another man in hospital in the early hours of Saturday.
Woman killed, man injured in traffic accident
Officers from the Traffic Division are investigating a traffic accident that left a woman dead and a man in hospital.
Police investigate alleged sexual assault
Police are investigating an alleged sexual assault of a 28-year-old female working aboard a vessel docked in eastern New Providence.
Friday, December 16
Tributes paid to Andrew "Dud" Maynard
TRIBUTES have been paid to former PLP chairman Andrew "Dud" Maynard, who died this morning at the age of 82.
Brown's two touchdowns lead UAB past Miami (OH) 24-20 in Bahamas Bowl
NASSAU Bahamas (AP) — Jermaine Brown Jr. rushed for 116 yards and two fourth-quarter touchdowns, Trea Shropshire had 183 yards receiving and a score, and UAB held off Miami (Ohio) 24-20 on Friday in the Bahamas Bowl.
Minister urges greater caution on the roads
TRANSPORT and Housing Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis is urging members of the public to exercise “greater” caution on the roadways amidst the increase of traffic fatalities in recent weeks.
Man on bail in court to face multiple charges
A MAN was denied bail in the Magistrate‘s Court on Friday after being charged with a series of vehicle part thefts and violating his pre-existing bail on an armed robbery charge.
Bail for man charged with grievous harm
A MAN was granted bail in a Magistrate’s Court after being accused of harming a man in an attack earlier this year.
DIANE PHILLIPS: A true story of brotherly love
YOU see them walking together, never one or the other, always the two of them, side by side, each wearing worn out clothes and carrying worn out bags.
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION: Eat well and be merry
“IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas,” and there is so much to be excited about this year.
Prison officer recruits welcomed by PM Davis
THE Bahamas Department of Correctional Services welcomed its latest group of recruits during a passing out parade at the prison facility yesterday.
Ministry: Not all road fees affected
THE Ministry of Transport and Housing released a statement yesterday on impending Road Traffic Department fee increases, clarifying that not all fees have been affected by the adjustments set to take effect January 1, 2023.
Halkitis ‘open’ to proposal on Village Road stimulus
ECONOMIC Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis said he is open to reviewing a proposal from Village Road business owners who are requesting an economic stimulus package for loss of business due to ongoing road works.
San Salvador council staff ‘unpaid for two months’
THE chief councillor for San Salvador said employees of the island’s district council have been without pay for two months, adding it has left them “handicapped” this Christmas season.
URCA ‘out of their minds’ for BPL 163% fuel hike backing
A former Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader yesterday blasted that electricity regulators “have got to be out of their minds” to determine Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) has made the case for up to 163 percent fuel charge hikes.
‘Disaster for business’: Village Road works in up to 46% loss
Village Road companies have branded the area’s ten-month long roadworks “a disaster for business” with income losses running as high as 46 percent and damaged properties urgently needing repairs.
Tax breaks call as Village Road avoided ‘like plague’
Village Road businesses are seeking VAT credits, plus Business Licence and real property tax waivers, to compensate for the damage inflicted by roadworks that have caused consumers to avoid the area “like the plague”.
Fears FTX ‘a game changer’ for financial services sector
FTX could be “a game changer” for the Bahamian financial services industry’s growth prospects, a well-known businessman warned yesterday, with the country facing “severe attack” over its implosion.
‘Learn from FTX collapse’
THE collapse of FTX serves as a crucial learning lesson and an opportunity to fight for the reputation of the country, according to representatives of the Organization for Responsible Governance.
BPL to end deal covering 50% of Nassau electricity
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) is ending a deal that supplies around 50 percent of New Providence’s base load electricity generation despite concerns its own staff are not trained to operate the engines involved.
$800m South Abaco agreement signed
THE government signed a heads of agreement yesterday for the Kakona South Abaco Development worth over $800m.
Bid for bail by lawyers for FTX’s founder
LAWYERS for former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried have filed a bail application in the Supreme Court, after the disgraced businessman was sent to prison on Tuesday.
Man gunned down as he arrives at home
A MAN was shot dead shortly after he arrived at a home in eastern New Providence yesterday.
JEAN RONY WINS AT PRIVY COUNCIL: Case over detention and repatriation back to Supreme Court
THE Judicial Committee of the Privy Council has awarded Bahamas-born Jean Rony Jean-Charles the right to have his case returned to the Supreme Court for consideration of an application of constitutional aid over his detention and repatriation from the country more than five years ago.
Bahamian sport honours
Lately, there have been numerous conversations in the press and elsewhere with regards to persons being awarded the Hall of Fame designation, and some being additionally included in the Legends Walk. In my opinion, all the inductees are deserving, some more than others. However, I am immensely surprised and somewhat shocked at some obvious omissions, or delays as I am now being advised.
Price Control is government intervention
I see why Government had no alternative to pass legislation to enforce the recent amendments to the Price Control regime - the existing law allows for a required approval if the merchant applies if his first cost has increased – a change cannot be refused, the Minister has to sign approval. We all know prices across the board have increased.
Companies urged to build investor sustainability trust
A Bahamian accountant says it is vital that investors have trust in a company’s sustainability reporting in an environment where increasing emphasis is being placed on climate action.
Efforts to rebuild Treasure Cay’s sewerage system hit by ‘procurement, shipping delays’
The Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) yesterday conceded that efforts to rebuild Treasure Cay’s sewerage system have been hit by “procurement and shipping delays” in COVID-19’s aftermath.
NPPPSSA honours Lynch and Stubbs
IN the spirit of the holiday season, the New Providence Public Primary Schools Sports Association found themselves on the giving and receiving end of gifts during their year-ending celebrations on Wednesday at Claridge Primary School.
Xavion gets warm welcome home
WHILE Xavion Johnson continues to make a name for himself on the international judo scene, he’s not forgotten by the Bahamas Judo Federation for his achievements.
Don’t suffer Xmas hangover through financial indiscipline
The holiday season is almost upon us, and while Christmas is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with friends and family, it is also an occasion when a person’s “jolly spending” can create financial hardships for months to follow.
It’s gameday
After losing to Ohio in their initial appearance here in 2017, interim head coach Bryant Vincent said there’s still no better place for his University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazers men’s football team to be than here at the HomeTown Lenders Bahamas Bowl.
Man accused of housebreaking
A MAN was sent to prison yesterday in connection with a housebreaking in Andros last month.
Bail granted in car attack case
A MAN accused of hitting a woman with his car was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Smashing up ex’s car brings probation order
A WOMAN was placed on three months’ probation in court yesterday after admitting to smashing her former boyfriend’s car and other belongings after she found he was cheating on her.
Arawak Cay vendors hit by gate’s closure
Arawak Cay vendors yesterday said the closure of the venue’s eastern gate entrance is creating a “turn off” for visitors to the Fish Fry and a drop in their income.
Investment fund bill to boost gov’t returns
The Attorney General yesterday hailed the National Investment Funds Bill (IFB) for providing a structure that will allow the Government’s ownership interests in private companies to be professionally managed.
FTX & insider trading
I believe that we first heard that FTX computers had been hacked. Then we heard that the Bahamas Government took custody of some of the FTX Assets and that was refined down to the Securities Commission had put them in Cold Storage for safe keeping.
Andrew Munnings returns home from training in Japan
AFTER returning home from a two-month training session in Osaka, Japan, top Bahamian male judoka Andrew Munnings said he’s so pleased with his performance that he definitely feels that he will be able to compete at a higher level in the future.
Thursday, December 15
STATESIDE: A change in the ‘Axis of Evil’ membership?
REMEMBER the Axis of Evil? That was a term very much in vogue back in the days of US President George W Bush, and the charter members of this putative unholy alliance were Iran, Iraq and North Korea.
FRONT PORCH: Ignorance poses threat to our political system
GORGING on US cable television news, quite a number of Bahamians mindlessly regurgitate the analysis of many of the babbling and bobbling talking heads on American television, breezily transposing much of the American political drama and insipid commentary to Bahamian politics.
Climate and health course held in Grand Bahama
OVER 130 community members and health professionals were present for the launch of the first climate and health ambassador training course this week.
LGBTI group wants to see non-discrimination in govt
THE Bahamas Organisation of LGBTI Affairs wants to see an across-the-board anti-discrimination policy implemented in government agencies in 2023, according to its spokesperson Alexus D’Marco yesterday.
Commission ‘cannot condone’ FTXs $100m Bahamas payout
A Delaware bankruptcy judge was yesterday told that the Securities Commission’s vehement rejection of Sam Bankman-Fried’s Bahamian creditor preferential payout plan proves there was no “collusion” with the FTX founder.
Cable unveils its first dividend in five years
Cable Bahamas’ top executive yesterday voiced optimism that it has “set the foundation” to become a dividend-paying stock once again with the unveiling of a first capital return to shareholders for five years.
Attorney to seek Bankman-Fried release
AN attorney representing embattled former FTX CEO Samuel Bankman-Fried says he will proceed with “whatever is necessary” to have his client released from the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services after he was sent there on Tuesday.
‘Arrest was not influenced by other considerations’
DAMIAN Williams, US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, said Sam Bankman-Fried’s arrest on Monday was dictated by law enforcement as opposed to any other considerations, including his scheduled testimony in Congress on Tuesday.
RBC’s 3-day digital woes an ‘absolute catastrophe’
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) yesterday pledged it is “working diligently” to restore its digital banking platform with businesses branding the three-day woe as “an absolute catastrophe” for commerce.
Shoppers warned: Don’t go broke for Christmas
A financial expert urged residents to take a “pause” and not to go broke this Christmas season while shopping.
Airline workers sign agreement
AFTER several months of negotiations, Nassau Flight Services and the Airport Airline and Allied Workers Union (AAAWU) signed a five-year industrial agreement at the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday.
‘No special treatment for FTX founder in prison’
ACTING Commissioner of Corrections Doan Cleare said former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried is getting no preferential treatment in prison, adding that “all inmates are treated equally”.
‘FTX BAHAMAS CHIEF CONFESSED TO FRAUD’: Securities Commission director says admission led to liquidation move
The head of FTX’s Bahamian subsidiary sparked an “urgent” police probe into possible criminal misconduct when he confessed to local regulators about the misuse of multi-billion dollar client funds.
Kenise: My mother ‘was everything to me’
VETERAN national team player Zella Brown- Symonette, perhaps the greatest female shortstop who won numerous championships in the New Providence Softball Association and the Bahamas Government Departmental Softball Association, passed away on Tuesday.
Bay Street demolitions to boost Downtown’s revival
THE Deputy Prime Minister yesterday said the Government has demolished five derelict Bay Street properties over the past year to make way for downtown Nassau’s revival.
Royal date for National Youth Award director
THE National Director of the Governor General’s Youth Award (GGYA) Jacquetta Lightbourne- Maycock travelled to the United Kingdom last month to address a fundraising dinner attended by Prince Edward, chairman of trustees of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation.
US prosecutor confident on Bankman-Fried case
US PROSECUTORS yesterday voiced confidence they have sufficient evidence to convict FTX’s embattled founder, Sam Bankman-Fried, on charges that he “misappropriated billions of dollars of customer funds”.
Treasure Cay ‘one missed pump away from sewerage nightmare’
TREASURE Cay homeowners yesterday complained they still lack a proper sewerage system more than three years after Hurricane Dorian despite contributing “hundreds of thousands” to the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC).
Bahamian liquidators pledge $100m FTX payout recovery
FTX’s Bahamian provisional liquidators yesterday pledged to “claw back” the $100m payout to 1,500 Bahamian clients as they blasted the failed crypto exchange’s US chief for “inflaming and untrue” statements.
Abaco project generates $60m sales in one year
A HIGH-END Abaco resort project was yesterday said to have generated more than $60m in real estate sales in little over a year as its build-out gathers pace following the COVID-19 pandemic’s easing.
Empty seats at stadiums
Do we fill our stadiums? Have they ever been filled? Are we getting our buck return or is the development-building all politics and makes zero financial sense? You realise with the opening of the Andre Rodgers we now have inventory of $100 million worth of stadia!
Raynor Andrews gets an offer from Syracuse
JUNIOR offensive lineman Raynor Andrews continues to become a sought after prep football prospect.
Sears need not resign
It is interesting to note the baying of opponents of the ruling Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) calling for the resignation of the Hon Minister Alfred M Sears (PLP-Fort Charlotte) as Minister of Works & Public Utilities due to what they call his “admitted misleading of the House of Assembly relative to whether or not he had received an email from the Ministry of Economic Development on the continuation of an oil hedging proposal for Bahamas Power & Light,”
Fredrick King has career night for Blue Jays
FREDRICK King had his second NCAA start and produced a career night for the Creighton Blue Jays.
Chipola improves to No.2 in poll
Deyton Albury, Paul Greene and Chipola College are now the no.2 ranked men’s basketball programme in NJCAA Division I.
‘Buddy’ and Pacers beat Warriors, Curry hurt
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Tyrese Haliburton scored 29 points and the Indiana Pacers made 16 3-pointers to hold on for a 125-119 victory last night over the Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry, who didn’t finish the game because of a left shoulder injury.
Boys accused of trespassing
FOUR boys admitted to trespassing on school premises after dark intending to commit an offence.
Shooting suspect is denied bail
A MAN accused of shooting at a woman as she drove away in her car was denied bail in the Supreme Court.
$15k fine over marijuana
A MAN was ordered to pay a $15,000 fine after he admitted to having 10 lbs of marijuana in his possession.
Wednesday, December 14
ALICIA WALLACE: Dinner with the patriarchy
IN celebration of a special occasion, I was one of four people having dinner at a fairly popular restaurant, known for its focus on meat, at a major resort in New Providence. The restaurant was selected to give the guest of honour as many options as possible, allowing her to be as indulgent as she wished. Since I choose not to eat meat, I looked at the menu online and identified the items that I could order and hoped to enjoy.
Tourism next year ‘the best ever’
TOURISM, Aviation and Investments Minister Chester Cooper says he anticipates that tourism arrivals for next year will “be the best” the country has ever seen, with forward bookings for the first half of 2023 already showing promising signs.
EDITORIAL: The fall of Sam Bankman-Fried
IT is a remarkable fall from grace.
Minister quiet on Christmas decor cost
AMID some criticism over the national Christmas tree decorations, Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg shied away from revealing the cost of the project, adding that he found no issue with the aesthetics.
Congresswoman hopes arrest will see Bankman-Fried held accountable
UNITED States Congresswoman Maxine Waters expressed hope that former FTX CEO Sam Bankman- Fried’s arrest and arraignment will signal him being held accountable for the alleged “fraud” he committed leading to the giant crypto exchange firm’s disgraceful fall, affecting as many as one million people.
FTX’s US chief hits PM, AG over ‘total stonewall’
FTX’s new US chief has accused the Prime Minister and Attorney General of “a complete stonewall” over his push for The Bahamas to embrace the US legal system as the primary venue for solving the collapsed crypto exchange’s woes.
‘Shut down’ on FTX $300m Bahamas assets safeguard
FTX’s Chapter 11 chief yesterday alleged to the US Congress that efforts to obtain “clarity” over the Securities Commission’s action to safeguard $300m in client assets had been “shut down” by The Bahamas.
Bran: New pharmaceutical price controls are ‘a stretch’
A former Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader yesterday said coping with the pharmaceutical industry’s new price control regime was “certainly a stretch” as it had left his family’s business operating at a loss.
SBF deal with Deltec chief’s US bank ‘highly irregular’
FTX’s new US chief yesterday confirmed he is probing a “highly irregular” transaction with Bahamas links where Sam Bankman-Fried’s hedge fund paid an “off the charts” sum to buy into a small American bank.
Winning bidder for Grand Bahama Airport picked
AFTER several months of deliberation, the government has selected the winning bidder for the redevelopment of the Grand Bahama International Airport.
Cooper: We will defend nation’s reputation
WITH the arrest of former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried dominating international headlines, Acting Prime Minister Chester Cooper gave an assurance yesterday that the government will continue to protect the country’s reputation, while expressing confidence in the nation’s judicial system.
National debt shrinks - but only falls $21m
The Bahamas’ national debt enjoyed its first quarterly contraction for years during the three months to end-September 2022, the Central Bank revealed yesterday, although the decline was a modest $20.7m,
New FTX CEO: Bahamas is not transparent
FTX CEO John Ray III said the Chapter 11 process in Delaware is the only clear option that gives visibility to customers about what happened to the fallen crypto giant and a chance to recoup their money, as he lambasted the process in The Bahamas as not transparent.
Albury Jr following in his brother’s footsteps
AFTER watching his big brother Deyton Albury leave Temple Christian to pursue his basketball career in high school in the United States, Michael Albury Jr has made the transition to Florida from Teleos Baptist Academy where he was a star player for the Cherubims basketball team.
Govt to offer proposal to BPSU members today
THE Davis administration plans to present its final proposal to the Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) today, State Minister of Public Service Pia Glover-Rolle said yesterday. She is hopeful a new industrial agreement can be signed before the end of the year.
Public servant concerns ‘to be resolved by first quarter next year’
STATE Public Service Minister Pia Glover-Rolle said yesterday that by the first quarter of next year the government is aiming to resolve the long-standing concerns of public servants from the Ministry of Social Services.
Media have an agenda over Sears
It is now patently clear that the main media organisations may have an agenda to force the resignation of the Hon Alfred Sears as they have anointed itself prosecutor, judge and jury in this developing political saga. We have yet to hear and digest all of the facts herein.
Man, 73, jailed for ten years over unlawful sex with eight-year-old girl
A 73-YEAR-OLD Grand Bahama man convicted of having unlawful sexual intercourse with an eight-year-old girl was sentenced to ten years behind bars yesterday.
Suspect charged with fatal stabbing
A 20-YEAR-OLD man appeared in Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with last week’s fatal stabbing in Pinewood Gardens. Shamar Hepburn faced Magistrate Kendra Kelly on a charge of murder.
Man accused of using car in assault
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after denying assaulting a woman with his car last week.
14-year-old guilty of injuring man
A TEENAGER was sent to Simpson Penn Centre for Boys after admitting to injuring a man yesterday.
College football teams are ready for Bahamas Bowl
It was a day of fun and relaxation for the college football teams yesterday after they arrived in town on Monday for the HomeTown Lenders Bahamas Bowl.
Basketball community mourning death of Rodney Johnson
THE basketball community is mourning the loss of former long-time and smartly dressed coach and referee Rodney E.C. Johnson, who made his contribution to the game at every level.
Roadrunners Track Club hosts 22nd annual awards banquet
ON Saturday, the Roadrunners Track Club, led by president and head coach Dexter Bodie, hosted their 22nd annual presentations and awards banquet for their athletes.
FROM FTX TO PRISON AS BAIL DENIED: Sam Bankman-Fried remanded in custody until February court date
DISGRACED former FTX CEO Samuel Bankman-Fried was denied bail by Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt and remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDCS) until his next court appearance in February.
Tuesday, December 13
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried denied bail
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried has been denied bail by Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt and has been remanded to the Bahamas Department of Corrections.
Getting glam for the holidays
If there is ever a time to “get fix up”, like Bahamians say, the Christmas season is it.
Bahamian barista places in the top 3 of regional coffee competition
AFTER winning a local competition and placing in the top three of the regional contest stage, local Starbucks barista Shanyhah Bowe has returned home from Costa Rica enriched with an even greater appreciation for coffee.
FACE TO FACE: Following a path that is still evolving
WHEN Deidre Moss graduated from the College of the Bahamas with an Associates Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication back in 2007, she dreamed of making her mark in the media field and impacting lives.
Detention Centre upgrades ‘to cost at minimum seven figures’
LABOUR and Immigration Minister Keith Bell revealed that necessary upgrades to the Carmichael Road Detention Centre will cost “seven figures at the very minimum”.
Mitchell defends Sears over BPL fuel hedging
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday defended Works and Utilities Minister Alfred Sears over the controversy surrounding the latter’s conflicting statements over the Bahamas Power and Light fuel hedging issue.
Cooper hails ‘transformational’ National Investment Funds Bill
ACTING Prime Minister Chester Cooper yesterday hailed the National Investment Funds Bill 2022 as a “transformational” piece of legislation that will lay the foundation for public sector investing and reinvestment in support of the country’s national development goals.
Thankful for a helping hand in a time of need
CHERYL Adderley said since being diagnosed with a brain tumor, her life has changed drastically as she now depends on the assistance of Social Services.
‘Alarm’ as 53 killed on roads this year
AFTER a string of traffic fatalities in recent weeks, Chief Superintendent David Lockhart of the Royal Bahamas Police Force Traffic Division said the number of accidents in the country is “alarming”.
FTX FOUNDER ARRESTED: US expected to seek extradition
SAM Bankman-Fried, former CEO of crypto giant FTX, was arrested by the Royal Bahamas Police Force yesterday and will likely face extradition to the United States, Attorney General Ryan Pinder announced.
Bahamas battles for control over $256m FTX properties
A major legal battle was brewing last night for control of $256.3m worth of Bahamian real estate assets as FTX’s local liquidators sought to extract them from Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in the US.
Minnis blames Christie Gov’t for Oban debacle
Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday sought to blame the last Christie administration’s failure to conduct “proper due diligence” for the $5.5bn Oban oil refinery debacle, while admitting that his government “took the hit”.
Digital pass to drive jitney unity for 90k
Digital technology was yesterday hailed as a key element in driving New Providence’s jitney industry towards the long-promised unified transportation system through an initiative that will launch in early 2023.
Central Bank’s waiver drives $202m sovereign debt boost
Incentives that sparked almost $202m of local investor demand for The Bahamas’ US dollar bonds has been “very, very significant” in driving an international debt turnaround, a senior official said yesterday.
Govt ‘massive’ clean-up plan for New Providence
THE Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources has embarked on a “massive” clean-up campaign for New Providence and several Family Islands in preparation for the nation’s 50th independence celebrations next July.
EDITORIAL: Questions remain after FTX founder’s arrest
THE news of the arrest of Sam Bankman-Fried’s arrest feels as if it has been both inevitable and strangely overdue.
Minnis: Nation could hit new murder record
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday the country is on track to set another murder record due to the government’s failed handling of crime.
AG: ‘No go’ for $100m FTX Bahamian returns
The Attorney General last night denied that he or any government official gave permission for FTX’s now-arrested founder to violate a freeze order by returning $100m in assets to 1,500 purported “Bahamian” clients.
Buddy Hield scores 19 in 87-82 loss to Heat
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Bam Adebayo had 22 points and 17 rebounds and Jimmy Butler scored seven straight points late in the fourth quarter to help the Miami Heat hold off the Indiana Pacers 87-82 last night.
Grant named to All-Tournament team
Team Bahamas second baseman Adari Grant was named to the All-Tournament team for the fourth annual Caribbean Baseball Cup.
Major Jr, Bain face off with top tennis players in world
IT was a rare opportunity when high school sensation Michael Major Jr and collegian Jacobi Bain got to play against some of the top tennis players in the world at home.
Jonquel Jones posts 29 points, 19 rebounds in blowout victory
JONQUEL Jones continues to lead CBK Mersin to the top of the standings in Turkey’s Herbalife Nutrition Women’s Basketball Super League, and contention in FIBA EuroLeague play.
RIP: BACO members are laid to rest
IT was an unusual Saturday for members of the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials.
The Return: Chickcharney Challenge set for January 28
IF you have not yet registered for the Chickcharney Challenge there’s still time, as organisers of the island nation’s premier obstacle course challenge have announced a new date for the wildly popular event.
Baha Mar junior tennis clinic ‘a huge success’
THE 3rd Annual Baha Mar Cup was held this past weekend.
Retailer orders three months early to beat supply backlog
A BAHAMIAN retailer says this Christmas has proved more challenging than in previous years because product orders had to be placed months in advance to overcome supply chain and shipping challenges.
Man accused of armed robbery
A MAN appeared in court yesterday in connection with two armed muggings in the nation’s capital earlier this month.
Two charged with rape attacks
TWO men were remanded to prison yesterday after being accused of two separate sexual assaults against women.
Prosecutor calls for man guilty of incest to be jailed for up to 30 years
A PROSECUTOR said that a father convicted of two counts of incest against his daughter should face 20 to 30 years in prison.
Thank you, Mr Duffy
The Bahamas Press Club today is sad to learn of the passing of Mr Eugene Duffy, managing editor of The Tribune.
A winter we may not forget
THE Farmers Alamac, an American Periodical has been forecasting North America’s weather since 1818. These long-range forecasts have offered farmers, meteorologists and the public a explanation of what will possibly happen with our climate and why. Well, the Alamac’s predictions for the winter of 2022-2023 should elicit our attention and possible response to the highly active weather to come.
Policeman charged with conspiracy to commit murder
A POLICE officer along with his alleged accomplice were formally charged with conspiracy to commit murder yesterday in connection with the death of a Passport Office employee earlier this month.
Monday, December 12
AG announces arrest of Sam Bankman-Fried
Former CEO of FTX Sam Bankman-Fried has been arrested, Attorney General Ryan Pinder has announced.
WORLD VIEW – NO TIME TO WASTE: Protecting school children and ending gang violence
GANG violence, particularly in schools, and directed at school children, is fast becoming a grave concern throughout the Caribbean.
THE KDK REPORT: A smile in September
IN January 2020, while getting ready for church, my patient sat in his living room chair to put on his shoes.
INSIGHT: How would the Alfred Sears of yesterday judge his actions today?
THE story of Alfred Sears and his slow steps toward admitting that he had indeed misled Parliament is a curious one.
Abaco residents hit out at ‘absurd’ grocery prices
SEVERAL Abaco residents have expressed frustration over the “absurd” prices of food in grocery stores on the island. Yesterday, The Tribune spoke to several residents after receiving numerous complaints about items being overpriced for the average person.
‘Tax and spend govt’ raises road traffic fees
THE Free National Movement has accused the Davis administration of being a “tax and spend” government due to the impending increase in Road Traffic Department fees.
Bahamasair targeting $2m bulk cargo boost
Bahamasair is targeting an initial $2m annual revenue boost from launching bulk cargo services, it has been revealed, with the number of passengers transported in 2022 set to almost double year-over-year.
Fair share: Hotel rental unit tax not in effect yet
A key Budget measure designed to ensure hotel rental pool units pay their fair share of taxation has yet to be implemented amid the wait for legislation to give it lawful effect.
‘Banner year’: Resorts beat revenue target by 10% pts
Resorts on major Family Islands are targeting “a banner year” in 2023 after room revenues through to end-October beat the industry’s post-COVID target by ten percentage points.
Mitchell condemns BPSU for ‘disrespectful’ action
PUBLIC Service Minister Fred Mitchell has condemned the actions taken by members of the Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) at the House of Assembly last week, saying it was “unnecessary and disrespectful” for the union to confront acting Prime Minister Chester Cooper on the steps outside Parliament in a hostile fashion.
Four killed in weekend road crashes
FOUR men are dead following four separate traffic fatalities over the weekend, two of the accidents having occurred in Eleuthera yesterday.
FNM: Sears throwing PM under bus
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard accused Minister of Works Alfred Sears of throwing Prime Minister Philip Davis “under the bus” on the Bahamas Power and Light fuel hedging controversy.
Policeman accused of conspiracy to murder
POLICE have charged a police officer with conspiracy to commit murder in relation to the death of a Passport Office employee.
Bankman-Fried: We tried to do right by regulators
FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried yesterday denied claims of the company being non-compliant with the country’s digital assets regulations, insisting his team had spent an enormous amount of time “on regulations and compliance”.
FTX LIQUIDATOR IS FROZEN OUT: Access to company records blocked – and documents could be lost forever
The joint provisional liquidators for FTX’s Bahamian subsidiary have revealed a month-long block on access to the company’s records is “frustrating” their efforts to secure and protect assets.
Getting nowhere fast
I have finally made my way through back issues of the two plus weeks of newspapers that accumulated during my trip to Europe recently.
Eugene Duffy
Thank you for your wonderful tribute to my friend and colleague over very many years, Eugene Duffy. You’ve very much captured the essence of the man.
5th Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise begins on Wednesday
ONE of the mainstays on the sports tourism calendar, the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby In Paradise is set to begin its week of festivities for its fifth edition.
NCAA Indoors: Athletes reach new milestones
BAHAMIANS continue to reach new milestones early in the NCAA Indoor Track and Field season.
Ayton has 28 points, 12 rebounds in 129-124 loss to Pelicans in overtime
THE Phoenix Suns are mired in a losing streak, but Deandre Ayton continues to enjoy one of his best statistical stretches for the season.
Baha Mar Cup brings star tennis players to Bahamas
THE island nation’s most decorated tennis player brought the Baha Mar Cup back to the Bahamas for a third time with a line-up of some of the most accomplished male and female players in the world to the Baha Mar Tennis Club over the weekend.
BPL fuel charge hike to recover $76m cost
BAHAMAS Power & Light (BPL) is hiking its fuel charge to recover $76m in costs that it failed to pass on to customers after the late 2021 oil purchases designed to underpin its hedging strategy were not executed.
Marijuana field found in Andros
OFFICERS in North Andros discovered a marijuana field on the island on Friday.
Nassau/PI hotels enjoying 136% room revenue jump
ROOM revenues for Nassau/Paradise Island hotels have increased by 136 percent year-over-year in 2022, it has been revealed, with non-US source markets also producing triple digit percentage increases in visitors.
Baha Mar’s Xmas bookings up 40%
BAHA Mar’s booking pace for the Christmas and New Year period is some 40 percent ahead of 2021 comparatives, a senior executive has revealed, with group bookings for 2023 up by 33 percent.
Market outlook for 2023
ActivTrades
THIS year has been a fertile one for market volatility. After decades of relative price stability, inflation returned with a vengeance, forcing a policy shift by developed country central banks and triggering interest rate hikes around the world.
Bahamas 4th overall
CARIBBEAN BASEBALL CUP
Team Bahamas finished the 2022 Caribbean Baseball Cup in fourth place and missed out on an opportunity to qualify for the 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games.
Issues in the courts
Greetings and thanks very much for the opportunity to write these several points to ponder.
Friday, December 9
$3,000 fine for bail violations
A MAN on bail for five counts of attempted murder was fined $3,000 in court after admitting to failing to adhere to the conditions of that bail.
Man bound to keep the peace for a year by court
AN elderly man was bound to keep the peace for a year by a Magistrate's Court on Friday after admitting to assaulting and threatening his sisters.
Man charged with possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court on Friday after reportedly being found with a loaded gun in Eleuthera earlier this month.
Two shot dead off West Bay Street
A MAN in his early 20s and a teenage boy who was out on bail were shot dead on Friday morning when they were ambushed by gunmen in a parking lot on Ferguson Road off West Bay Street.
DIANE PHILLIPS: The little team that could – and did
IT was a nail-biting, hold-your-breath moment that lasted for weeks on end. Would Team Bahamas – kids who had worked so hard to qualify and had their hopes pinned on faith -- get the funding to go to Marseilles to participate in the 2022 FIA Motorsport Games?
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION: Myths of non-profit groups
ON Monday, I was rewatching a Ted Talk video called, “The way we think about charity is dead wrong” by Dan Pallotta.
EDITORIAL: Will Alfred Sears follow tradition and resign?
ALFRED Sears misled Parliament. It has taken some time to reach the moment when the Minister of Works and Utilities has admitted that fact. The matter is simple.
‘Govt needs to attend to Family Island healthcare’
SENATOR Darren Henfield said yesterday that the healthcare facilities on the Family Islands need the attention of the government. He said many islanders are still forced to fly to the capital for emergency medical assistance.
‘Disappointed’ in Eleuthera water firm
WATER and Sewerage chairman Sylvanus Petty expressed his disappointment with Aqua Design, the company contracted by the government to provide water to Central Eleuthera due to the repeated disruptions in supply.
Gladstone Road project will last for two years
MAJOR work on the Gladstone Road Improvement Project is now expected to begin mid-2023 and will last for two years, officials from the Ministry of Works revealed yesterday.
‘New farming model’ to aid 57,000 trapped in poverty
A “new food production model” will aid up to 57,000 poverty-stricken Bahamians through the location of ten hydroponic container farms “in poor and vulnerable communities”, it has been revealed.
Bahamian bank, chair under US senate scrutiny on FTX
A Bahamian bank and trust company, and its chairman, are coming under increasing scrutiny by US senators over their links to FTX and other entities owned by the collapsed crypto currency exchange’s founder, Sam Bankman-Fried.
‘We didn’t have $40m for fuel hedge trades’
The Government and Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) last year lacked the $40m in free cash needed to finance cut-price oil purchases that would have saved electricity consumers millions, it was argued yesterday.
BPL’s solar drive targets $30m consumer savings
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chief executive yesterday said the utility could create $30m per year in savings when its proposed 60 Mega Watt (MW) solar project for New Providence becomes operational.
Plays and films board is created in Grand Bahama
THE Grand Bahama Plays and Films Control Board has been created as a regulatory body to approve and rate local productions for public viewing for audiences on the island.
Golden win for Dorian Williams in Britain
A FORMER student of the Beacon School in Grand Bahama competed in the first British Down Syndrome swimming championships recently, taking the gold and silver medals in two events.
Congresswoman says FTX subpoena ‘on the table’
US HOUSE Financial Services chair Maxine Waters dispelled reports that she is not willing to subpoena former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried, stating that it is “definitely on the table”.
No change in electric disconnections yet after bills increase
THE recent hike in electricity bills has not affected the rate of electricity disconnections, according to Bahamas Power and Light CEO Shevonn Cambridge who revealed yesterday that monthly disconnections continue to hover around 1,400.
Knife killer ‘knew wife of victim’
THE sister of a man who was fatally stabbed at a home in Pinewood Gardens on Wednesday night believes he was killed by someone his wife knew.
‘More than 1,000 potholes patched’
THE Ministry of Works and Utilities has patched up more than 1,000 potholes in New Providence over the last five months as a part of its efforts to improve roads in the capital amid continued complaints over the issue.
Ann Marie Davis joins call for marital rape laws
ANN Marie Davis yesterday said “no means no” and joined countless other Bahamian officials and activists calling for marital rape to be outlawed.
Sears admits misleading House on BPL fuel hedge
A Cabinet minister yesterday admitted misleading Parliament by initially denying he was briefed on the Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) fuel hedging controversy that will allegedly cost households and businesses over $100m.
Implications of Warnock’s Georgia win
The much anticipated run-off in the Georgia Senate race has been completed, and the Democratic Party incumbent Raphael Warnock has won, giving his party a 51-vote majority in the Senate.
Two charged over firearms and drugs
TWO men were charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with recent firearm and drug possession charges after being captured by police following a car chase.
Man accused of indecently touching ten-year-old girl
A MAN was granted bail in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being accused of inappropriate behaviour with a child.
Man accused of bail violation
A MAN accused of armed robbery and murder faced court on five counts of violating his Supreme Court bail yesterday.
Teen charged over robbery
AN 18-year-old man was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court in connection with a recent robbery and assault of a man over a gold chain.
Pet campaign reaches out to schools
The Bahamas Alliance for Animal Rights and Kindness (Baark!) saw its mobile clinic hosted throughout November at Forbes Organic Farm off Cow Pen Road - and today and tomorrow, the clinic will return there.
Puerto Rico defeats The Bahamas, 14-2
Team Bahamas concluded the opening round of the Caribbean Baseball Cup with a 1-3 record and the no. 4 seed in the playoffs.
Coaches discuss HomeTown Lenders Bahamas Bowl
The 2022 HomeTown Lenders’ Bahamas Bowl will have two very different head-coaching situations when the teams face off next weekend at the Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
Shamar Burrows earns player of the week honours
SHAMAR Burrows concluded the first semester of the Atlantic University Sport basketball season with a conference-wide honour.
Thursday, December 8
‘Residents can still apply’ despite SERZ order end
DESPITE the end of the Special Economic Recovery Zone provisions, government MPs reiterated yesterday that residents in Grand Bahama and Abaco still needing post-Dorian assistance can apply to the relevant agencies to get the help they need.
STATESIDE: Trump suffers setbacks in his many legal battles
IN the month since the American midterm elections, many in the US media, including long-time supporters Rupert Murdoch and his Wall Street Journal and New York Post, have been critical of the role played by ex-president Donald Trump in the disappointing Republican election performance in November.
FRONT PORCH: We are not a Christian nation constitutionally
THE level of ignorance about our constitution is widespread. The ignorance is particularly alarming on the part of those who pretend to know about such matters.
Carnival is back - and this time it’s ‘fully sanctioned’
OPERATORS of this year’s “fully sanctioned” Christmas Carnival anticipate large crowds as the prices of tickets have not risen, and there are three new attractions and new safety measures available for the holiday event.
EDITORIAL: Blaming The Bahamas instead of crypto industry
IN the fallout over the collapse of FTX, there has been quite a lot of talk about The Bahamas and its role in the whole affair – much of it completely unfounded.
Permanent tribute to honour Keva Bethel at UB North Campus
THE PI Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc, in partnership with University of The Bahamas, announced plans to establish a permanent historical marker in honour of Dr Keva Bethel at the Grand Bahama campus.
Debt consolidation ‘uptick’ as credit reports double
Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) doubled the number of debt consolidation-linked credit reports it requested for November, its top executive revealed yesterday, as it targets a “flat” loan book outcome for the fourth quarter.
Marinas suffer 40% or more business plunge
Bahamian marinas were yesterday said to have suffered up to a 40 percent or more decline in business that is being blamed on VAT’s imposition on yacht charter fees.
FNM chairman queries FTX chief’s local status
The Government should begin examining “in a very deliberate fashion” the immigration status held by embattled FTX chief, Sam Bankman-Fried, and his close associates, the FNM chairman said yesterday.
Judge rejects ex-minister’s ‘boutique resort’ evidence
A Supreme Court judge has rejected evidence from a former Cabinet minister alleging that a Staniel Cay homeowner “circumvented” environmental requirements in constructing a property “typical of of a boutique hotel”.
Sears: We have a plan for roads
WORKS and Utilities Minister Alfred Sears assured the public yesterday that his ministry has a comprehensive plan to improve roads throughout New Providence and has already deployed contractors out on the streets to carry out much-needed repairs.
Eleuthera anger at water problem
AFTER nearly a week without running water, residents of Central Eleuthera are disgruntled with the continued disruption of water supply on the island.
PM flies out to Angola conference
PRIME Minister Philip Davis left the country on Wednesday to attend the 10th Summit of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific (OACPS) Heads of State and Government.
Man and woman questioned over stabbing death
Police are questioning a 20-year-old man and a 40-year-old woman in connection with a stabbing death on Wednesday night.
Disaster bill ‘a significant step’
MYLES Laroda, State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, led debate in the House of Assembly yesterday on the Disaster Risk Management Bill 2022, saying the proposed legislation, once enacted, will mark a “significant step” in the country’s development.
'Sears unsuitable for his portfolio’
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard says Works and Utilities Minister Alfred Sears is “unsuitable” for his portfolio.
Pintard: Govt misleading public over civil service relations
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said the government has continued to mislead the public through public relations to give the impression that all is well with them and civil servants.
UNION PROTEST AT ‘SLAP IN THE FACE’: Members gathered outside Parliament as matters unresolved
SCORES of Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) members gathered outside the House of Assembly yesterday outraged over the government’s failure to meet with union executives to resolve several outstanding matters.
Dorian tax breaks access sparks House controversy
THE deputy prime minister yesterday pledged that Dorian-devastated Bahamians who “need help will get help” amid ongoing concerns that the mechanisms to provide continued access to tax breaks are not fully in place.
DEIDRE BASTIAN: Customer service is key to stand out from crowd
Today’s business environment is incredibly competitive, and superb customer service is required if you wish your company to succeed.
Cable targets 33,000 Nassau homes for new network in Q1
CABLE Bahamas is targeting 33,000 southern New Providence homes for connection to its new fibre-to-the-home network starting in the 2023 first quarter after overcoming supply chain challenges that delayed the roll-out.
Best of the Best Regatta has all-junior line-up in E Class for first time ever
AMIDST the majestic sight of A, B and C Class sloops in Montagu Bay last weekend, there were two other boat fleets out on the water, most of which were being sailed by junior sailors aged 17 and under.
Bahamians shine at the Lil Mo/Big Mo tennis competition
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) congratulates Khai Rhees, Kingston Rees and William McCartney on their performances at the Lil Mo/Big MO Competition in Palm Beach, Florida.
Albury, Greene lead team to wins
THE Chipola coaching staff has raved about the contributions of its Bahamian stars as the team has continued its undefeated season and risen as high as no.4 in the national junior college rankings.
Vlasov savours Grand Prix victory
DECEMBER 4 was a fun day for Anna Camille Vlasov and her Belgian Warmblood gelding Gulliver du Saint-Chene as they blazed to victory in the 1.40m Grand Prix competition on the final day of the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour in Oliva, Spain.
Team Bahamas suffers 9-3 loss to Cuba
4TH CARIBBEAN BASEBALL CUP
For the second consecutive game, Team Bahamas fell behind early and a late inning rally fell short at the 2022 Caribbean Cup Baseball Tournament.
‘Buddy’ Hield scores 26 pts in 121-115 loss to Timberwolves
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — D’Angelo Russell had 15 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter. Anthony Edwards scored 26 points and the Minnesota Timberwolves held on to beat the Indiana Pacers 121-115 last night.
Bimini man accused of murder
A 34-YEAR-OLD Bimini man was charged with attempted murder in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
Fined for $3,000 fraud offence
A MAN was fined in court after admitting to fraudulently obtaining $3,000 by claiming to be a bail bondsman.
American loses $77,000 in winnings - and gets $500 fine
AN American man was fined yesterday after admitting to making a false declaration at the airport. This admission resulted in him losing $70,000 in casino winnings which was seized at the time of his arrest.
Bail in causing harm case
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court after being accused of harming a woman last month.
Two accused of drugs offences
TWO men were fined yesterday after admitting to separate drug offences.
The Cooper egg farm
THE recent Facebook photo showing the price of a dozen of eggs on a Family Island was a sobering reminder of grocery inflation in The Bahamas and the Progressive Liberal Party government’s inability to prevent it.
Remember the Family Islanders
Please don’t forget your Family Islanders, Mr Davis. This is an open letter to Prime Minister “Brave” Davis.
Wednesday, December 7
ALICIA WALLACE: Having a tough time choosing presents? Here are some ideas
THE holiday season is one that many look forward to all year. There are beautiful lights, lots of events, and the anticipation of giving and receiving gifts. There always seems to be a rush to check off all the items on our lists in the three weeks before Christmas.
EDITORIAL: Items left on the govt’s to-do list this year
AS WE head towards Christmas, government seems to be more stumbling rather than sprinting towards the year’s finishing line.
Ex-minister warns BOB: $6m appeal withdraw ‘not the end’
A former Cabinet minister yesterday warned “it’s not the end” after an appeal against the dismissal of a $6m default judgment against Bank of the Bahamas was withdrawn by attorneys representing his interests.
Debt consolidation loans not cutting borrower woe
Commercial banks have revealed that debt consolidation loans frequently fail to reduce a troubled borrower’s debt service ratio to the 45 percent of income previously targeted by industry regulators.
Staniel Cay owner to seek ‘major damages’ over halt
A Staniel Cay homeowner yesterday said he is “ready for anything” and plans to seek “significant damages” from fellow residents after the Judicial Review challenge to his property’s construction was dismissed.
Minister demands food retailers ‘respect’ law
A Cabinet minister yesterday demanded that food retailers “respect” the law and adopt the Government’s expanded price control regime or face an enforcement crackdown that will see fines and penalties levied.
‘No way forward’ in union talks with government
BAHAMAS Public Service Union (BPSU) president Kimsley Ferguson said there is still “no way forward” in negotiations with the government about the union’s outstanding industrial agreement.
Teachers union signs memorandum of understanding
THE Bahamas Union of Teachers signed a memorandum of understanding yesterday with the Bahamas Baptist University College and the Charlotte Knowles- Thompson Agency Limited.
Prime Minister hails government’s accomplishments
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said his administration is pleased with its performance in office so far, but also acknowledged that there is still much more work to be done.
Halkitis: Food retailers are expected to comply
ECONOMIC Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis said yesterday the government fully expects food retailers to comply with its new price control regulations and that it intends to enforce the law against operators who refuse to implement the changes.
Pintard ‘not surprised’ at marijuana delay
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said he is not surprised that the Davis administration has delayed presenting marijuana legalisation to Parliament.
Mitchell highlights need to tackle issues facing Haiti
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell is of the view that Haiti continues to suffer social and economic depression because it “struck the first blow for freedom back in 1804” for oppressed black nations. He urged regional counterparts to help them resolve their problems.
‘Govt owes teachers $1.5m back payments’
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson said some teachers in her union are owed an estimated $1.5m in back pay from the government.
Sweeting speaks out over Eleuthera water problems
Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera Clay Sweeting said the disruption of water supply on the island is “unacceptable and extremely frustrating” - and that he has expressed his “disappointment” to colleagues.
CHRISTMAS SHOWDOWN – Roberts: Price Control backed off after festive season shutdown threat
Super Value’s principal yesterday disclosed Price Control “backed off” seizing vast quantities of product when warned of pre-Christmas store shutdowns, telling the Government: “We don’t want war, and you don’t want war.”
Man charged with bail violation
A MAN was denied bail in Magistrates Court after being accused of failing to charge his electronic monitoring device (EMD) while on bail for armed robbery.
GB Chamber chief seeks airport plans
THE GRAND Bahama Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said he wants to see plans for Grand Bahama International Airport’s (GBIA) revival before the Government finalises a deal with a private sector partner.
Travel agents report mixed Xmas signals
TRAVEL agents say there has been a significant increase in inbound visitors coming to The Bahamas for the upcoming Christmas holiday but outgoing and domestic business is softer than normal.
NCAA: Bastian shy of double double, Hunter scores nine
SEVERAL Bahamian players had season best performances with their respective teams in NCAA Division I basketball.
Criteria for Legends Walk of Fame under scrutiny
THE criteria and selection process for the National Walk of Fame has recently come under scrutiny following the latest additions to the list of honourees.
‘Buddy’ reaches another career 3-point milestone
Chavano “Buddy” Hield reached another career milestone, another addition to his résumé as one of the top three-point shooters in the NBA.
Four accused of Arawak Cay attack
THREE men and a woman were granted bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being accused of together attacking and injuring a man on Arawak Cay late last month.
Man charged with Freeport murder
A 30-YEAR-OLD Grand Bahama man was charged with murder in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Woman and man face court over separate assault charges
A MAN and a woman were charged in court for two separate assaults yesterday.
Weather changes
THE Farmers Alamac, an American Periodical has been forecasting North America’s weather since 1818. These long-range forecasts have offered farmers, meteorologists and the public a explanation of what will possibly happen with our climate and why. Well, the Alamac’s predictions for the winter of 2022-2023 should elicit our attention and possible response to the highly active weather to come.
Outstanding taxes and what is achieved?
Greetings and thank you very much for the space in your daily newspaper to have these several points unearthed. I appreciate it.
Tuesday, December 6
FACE TO FACE: A humble start and a steady climb
HE had at his disposal some of the most auspicious mentors one could ask for. He came from humble beginnings, but lived in a loving home.
PETER YOUNG: Rarely seen protests in communist state
CHINA has been much in the news recently. Public protests about the nation’s zero-COVID policy have hit the headlines, not least because in an authoritarian state dominated by the CCP - the Chinese Communist Party - such dissent, including calls for freedom and for President Xi Jinping to stand down, is unprecedented. Amidst violent clashes, there has been a massive police presence and heavy crackdown in major cities including Beijing and Shanghai and stiff penalties imposed on those concerned.
Miller: I’m talking to cruise lines about pollution problem
ENVIRONMENT and Natural Resources Minister Vaughn Miller yesterday said he is in conversation with cruise lines about the issue of pollution in Bahamian waters. If necessary, he said, the government will use the “maximum extent of the law” to deal with the issue.
Attendance at public school now at 95 percent
ACTING Director of Education Dominique McCartney Russell revealed that the public school attendance rate for face-to-face learning is at 95 percent.
Environmentalist warns of coral damage risk
A LOCAL environmentalist is concerned by the arrival and anchoring of a cruise ship in waters off Lucaya, Grand Bahama, where it could cause permanent damage to healthy coral reefs in the area.
Auto sector’s 20% rise beats ‘outrageous’ shipping costs
Bahamian auto dealers yesterday predicted new vehicle sales will close 2022 some 15-20 percent ahead of last year after the industry overcame “outrageous” shipping cost hikes and inventory shortages.
Bimini ‘diamond in rough’ in $10m transformation
A well-known Bimini condo hotel has closed for a $10m overhaul that will near-triple existing marina slips and “polish a diamond in the rough”, its developer revealed yesterday.
No Cable customer payout for bad TV
Cable Bahamas pay-TV customers will not be compensated even though regulators found it breached both its licence terms and consumer protection regulations by delivering poor quality services in 2021.
Regulators throw out $85m Cable warning
Regulators yesterday rejected Cable Bahamas’ warning that the fine imposed on it for poor pay-TV service quality would “detract” from its $85m capital investment in network infrastructure upgrades.
Junkanoo tickets selling fast
TICKETS for prime Junkanoo seating in Rawson Square are selling fast as anticipation builds for the return of the country’s premier cultural expression.
Migrants told: Smugglers don’t care if you live or die
A UNITED States Coast Guard official has told migrants that “smugglers do not care” whether they live or die after 79 Haitians, including several children were transferred to Bahamian authorities over the weekend.
FTX founder ‘still learning’ what caused firm’s collapse
DISGRACED FTX founder Sam Bankman- Fried said he is still “learning” and “reviewing” what led to his company’s collapse last month, adding he is not sure he will be ready to testify before Congress at a hearing in the United States next week.
Sailing for science
OFFICIALS yesterday praised the STEM for the Oceans programme that hosted 80 students and others on board the world’s largest cruise ship, calling the initiative something that speaks to the bright future for Bahamian natural resources.
EDITORIAL: Farewell to Tribune managing editor Eugene Duffy
EUGENE Duffy was a self-confessed old school journalist.
Atlantis beats revenue goals, targets ‘strong’ 2023 first half
Atlantis continues to beat its revenue targets and is predicting a strong 2023 first half, a senior executive has revealed, with the wider resort industry bracing for 90 percent-plus occupancies over the Christmas and New Year period.
Get your shots as flu cases are on the rise
LOCAL health officials have seen a rise in the number of reported flu cases in the country, with one expert warning Bahamians to stay alert and up to date with their influenza vaccinations before heading into the holiday season.
Tribune managing editor Eugene Duffy dies age 60
THE managing editor of The Tribune newspaper, Eugene Duffy, has died aged 60 after a period of illness.
Pintard: Change Laws and protect women
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said far too many women and girls are being abused in domestic situations and that “chauvinistic” laws must be changed.
MARIJUANA LAWS PLAN UP IN SMOKE: Promised legislation by end of year now ‘not likely’, says AG
DESPITE promises from the Davis administration to present the marijuana legalisation to Parliament before the end of the year, Attorney General Ryan Pinder said yesterday that this is “not likely”.
Man accused over series of robberies in New Providence
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday in connection with a string of robberies in the nation’s capital.
Suspect charged over unlicenced gun
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after being accused of having an unlicenced gun and two sets of ammunition in his possession.
Man accused of using gun to threaten
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being accused of threatening someone with a gun.
FOURTH CARIBBEAN BASEBALL CUP: Bahamas 1-1 after loss to Curacao
An early 10-run deficit was too much for Team Bahamas to overcome as they suffered their first loss of the 2022 Caribbean Baseball Cup.
American fined over weed he brought to smoke on vacation
AN American man was fined in Magistrate‘s Court yesterday after admitting to having brought weed with him to smoke on his vacation.
GB does not need Nassau charity
A prominent solicitor who responded to the remarks of the financial secretary in the Ministry of Finance in The Tribune Business spoke for most Grand Bahamians when he essentially said that New Providence was not sustaining that northern island in the wake of Hurricane Dorian in September 2019.
Product shortage concern for Christmas tree vendors
CHRISTMAS tree vendors yesterday voiced fears over inventory shortages with one revealing they had to source product from further north than normal.
Retailers enjoy steady sales in Xmas run-up
BAHAMIAN retailers yesterday said sales are growing steadily in the run-up to Christmas.
Taxi union still pushes for 30% fare increase
THE BAHAMAS Taxi Cab Union’s (BTCU) president yesterday said it is still pushing for a 30 percent fare hike to offset inflation-fuelled cost increases despite the Government being unresponsive to its calls.
5th ‘Best of the Best Regatta’ winners are Susan Chase V, Running Tide, Captain Peg, Sassie Sue
THE fifth Best of the Best Regatta returned to Montagu for the first time in two years featuring the top sloop sailors in the island nation.
Frugality? Prove it!
GOVERNMENT talks but they don’t practice what they preach – frugality!
Monday, December 5
THE KDK REPORT: Devil in the details
BEFORE the internet became mainstream, my father owned a set of medical encyclopedias.
INSIGHT: As we approach 50, what does our future look like?
THE scene on Saturday morning was beautiful to see. Crowds turned out in force to either take part or volunteer to organise the Road to 50 road race.
‘Headroom for growth’: Tourism forecast to hit regional average
A senior hotelier yesterday said The Bahamas “still has some headroom for tourism growth” post-COVID amid forecasts its annual expansion rate will merely match the Caribbean average for the next decade.
‘Don’t punish many for the few’ on Dorian tax breaks
An activist is urging the Government to “not punish thousands of people because of a handful” of tax dodgers who have abused the Hurricane Dorian tax breaks meant to aid Abaco and Grand Bahama’s recovery.
‘Can’t rest on our laurels’ with 20% growth forecast
The Bahamas “cannot rest on our laurels” despite a 20 percent growth forecast for its tourism industry that is more than three times’ greater than the world average, the deputy prime minister is warning.
WORLD VIEW: Higher cost of living demands competent governments
THROUGHOUT the world, people and their governments and Central Banks are worrying about inflation, or the rate of increase in the cost of living. In many countries, this concern about the cost of living has become a prime consideration in general elections because electorates want competent governments in whose hands they commit their expectations.
Robbers pose as police
TWO men heading to the airport were robbed by armed men posing as police officers on Saturday.
Baha Mar’s contractor ‘overfunded’ by $113m
Baha Mar’s main contractor was “overfunded” by up to $112.7m during the project’s race to completion, it has been alleged, while at the same time diverting “emergency” financing to pay for its British Colonial Hilton acquisition.
$2m price tag as patients will be housed at doctors hospital
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville announced yesterday an agreement that allows the transfer of Princess Margaret Hospital patients to Doctors Hospital West.
PM pitching for stadium to become baseball hub
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said he anticipates that the country will become the nexus in regional baseball with the opening of the Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium.
Man found shot dead in govt vehicle
A 43-year-old man is dead following a shooting incident over the weekend, prompting police to appeal for the public’s assistance in their investigation.
SAFETY FIRST FOR JUNKANOO: Police out in force, says minister, as tickets in demand
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg is pledging that the upcoming Junkanoo parades will be safe, with police and Defence Force officers set to be out in full force.
4TH CARIBBEAN BASEBALL CUP: Bahamas victorious
Team Bahamas opened the new Andre Rodgers National Stadium and the 2022 Caribbean Cup on a winning note.
DEREK SMITH: Accounting for the risks posed by digital assets
Blockchain technology has revolutionised mutiple products and services in recent years, making it one of our generation’s most fascinating advances. Crypto currencies are enabled by this same blockchain technology. Due to their outstanding capabilities to address specific challenges, crypto currencies have emerged as the most popular blockchain application. As a result, over 300m individuals now own crypto currencies, according to international reports.
DPM targets Saudi Arabia to ‘match’ $6bn in investments
THE DEPUTY prime minister is targeting Saudi Arabia as a key source of investment capital for The Bahamas with the Government seeking to “match” the $6bn worth of projects already approved during its second year.
Bad Santa
ActivTrades
THE mother of all consumer battles is over, and Apple is one of the winners. Americans shopped online for a record $11bn on Cyber Monday, and AirPods and MacBooks were very popular.
Hovland hangs on to become repeat winner of Hero World Challenge
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Viktor Hovland led by four shots at the turn. No one got closer to him than two shots during the final nine holes at the Hero World Challenge.
First ever Northern Bahamas Volleyball Championships
THE Grand Bahama Secondary Schools Athletic Association completed its first ever Northern Bahamas Volleyball Championships over the weekend.
Baseball and softball champions crowned
WHILE Garvin Tynes outslugged Palmdale for the girls’ softball title, Sadie Curtis blanked TG Glover to emerge as the boys’ baseball champions as the New Providence Primary Schools Sports Association completed its week-long dual competition at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Drumeco Archer returned as BAAA president
AFTER an intense campaign, Drumeco Archer was returned on Saturday as president of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations for the next four years, a term that will include the hosting of the 50th CARIFTA Games and the return of the World Athletics Relays in 2024.
Six months for stealing from account
A WOMAN was sentenced to six months in prison on Friday after admitting to stealing $2,600 from someone’s Bank of the Bahamas account.
Robbery and attempted murder charges heard
FOUR young men were arraigned in the Supreme Court on Friday facing various charges, including two counts of armed robbery and two counts of attempted murder during the summer.
Two deny separate rape attacks in Eleuthera
TWO men denied rape allegations in the Supreme Court on Friday for two separate sexual assault incidents in Eleuthera. One of the incidents was connected to a home invasion in late February.
Bus driver shooting suspect remanded
A MAN was remanded to prison on Friday in connection with the shooting death of a bus driver who had been on bail for murder in early October.
George Smith to advise on 50th Independence
FORMER Cabinet minister George Smith has been appointed as a special advisor to the government for the country’s 50th anniversary independence events.
Goodman’s Bay
Totally agree with writer P Bullard. Visitors from the States once residents who frequented Goodman's Bay in their time wanted to stop and spend some hours enjoying the quietness and the views of the bay - got there around 11:30 in the morning and round-and-round we drove trying to find a parking spot in the eastern end of the park. Eventually risked parking behind a parked vehicle of a person who got there before and were on the beach and they kindly offered to park behind us as we weren't leaving for an hour.
Light gun sentences
On the same day last week that it reported the 121st murder of a Bahamian for 2022, The Nassau Guardian casually reported that a man was sentenced to a mere three years in prison by one of our magistrates for driving around New Providence with an assault rifle in his car.
The FTX meltdown
Bahamians should fasten their seatbelts. The collapse of the FTX crypto exchange under the thirty-year-old Sam Bankman Fried and his young colleagues may turn out to be one of the biggest financial scandals in Bahamian history.
Friday, December 2
Christmas food items 'will reflect Thanksgiving prices'
SUPER Value owner Rupert Roberts said Friday with the holidays approaching, the price of popular holiday goods will remain consistent to the prices currently reflected in stores.
FNM Chairman urges minister to address water challenges, potholes
FREE National Movement chairman Dr Duane Sands has urged Public Works Minister Alfred Sears, KC, to help the “long suffering” people of San Salvador and Eleuthera with water challenges.
Valley Boys excited for Bay Street return
THE Valley Boys have not come to play this Junkanoo season, with one official declaring, “when you are a Valley Boy you represent greatness.”
Valley Boys donate to Bahamas Red Cross Society
TO help the community, the Valley Boys Junkanoo group gave a donation to The Bahamas Red Cross Society on Friday.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Influencer wariness
THE UNINTENTIONAL IMPACT OF THE COLLAPSE OF FTX
RONALDO, the drop-dead handsome, talented Portuguese footballer, gets $1.6 million per Instagram post, another $800,000+ per Tweet. When he vouches for dandruff-beating Clear shampoo and hair products, enough of his 443 million followers scamper to scoop up bottles off the shelves that he’s worth every penny of the funds he earns as an influencer.
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION: Why does supporting local farmers matter?
HAVE you ever looked at the food on your plate and wondered who grew it and where it came from? Do you trust the methods used by the producer before it reached your plate? Has this food been treated with your best interest in mind from the field all the way to your plate?
Countdown to Junkanoo begins as new season is launched
YOUTH, Sports, and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg officially launched the start of the 2022/23 Junkanoo season after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Regulator warned 127 on financial crime compliance
Bahamian regulators issued warnings to 127 law and real estate firms over non-compliance with anti-financial crime mandates while giving this nation’s $306m-plus residential real estate sales a clean bill of health.
‘Season survival’ fears on 50% lobster price plunge
Fears were yesterday voiced that some Bahamian fishermen “may not survive the season” as the industry seeks to “weather the storm” created by lobster tail prices plunging by up to 50 percent.
Gov’ts deficit jumps $75m but below full-year run rate
The Government incurred a $75m October deficit after it was yesterday revealed that monthly spending on goods and services more than doubled to drive a 24.5 percent year-over-year recurrent spending increase.
FTX payout probe urged as US trustee intervenes
FTX’s Bahamian provisional liquidators were yesterday urged to “thoroughly investigate” any payouts to local investors that violated the Supreme Court asset freeze as the US Justice Department moved to intervene in Delaware.
Cruise port targeting 4.5m arrivals in 2024
Nassau Cruise Port’s top executive yesterday predicted that the facility will receive around 4.5m passengers in 2024, representing around a 12.5 percent increase on arrivals projected for the upcoming year.
US and Bahamas police link up for deportation
A JOINT effort between United States Homeland Security and the Royal Bahamas Police Force has resulted in 34-year-old wanted suspect Derval Anson Cornell Hanna, of Bimini, being arrested and deported.
$4m AML store opening to bring Freeport ‘rebirth’
AML opened the doors to its new $4m Solomon’s food store in the Winn Building yesterday, signalling the long-awaited rebirth of downtown Freeport for many Grand Bahamians.
Month of cultural activities to be held
THE Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture in collaboration with the cultural community, has organised a series of activities this month to celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage.
‘Take Back the Night’ event tonight
SURVIVORS of sexual violence will unite today to raise awareness about the “epidemic” of sexual violence in The Bahamas.
Child labour policy conventions signed
THE government yesterday signed two conventions concerning progress for persons with disabilities and gender-based violence and also launched one phase of the National Child Labour Policy.
‘How many taxi plates have been issued?’
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has urged Transport and Housing Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis to disclose the number of taxi plates that have been issued, amid accusations that the law has not been followed regarding the issuing process.
Cruise port grand opening in may, says chief executive
A GRAND opening for the new Nassau Cruise Port will be held in the last week in May following the multi-million-dollar project’s completion, its chief executive officer revealed yesterday.
Bell hoping for amicable resolution over salaries
LABOUR and Immigration Minister Keith Bell yesterday said he is not concerned with the “rhetoric” being spread about union negotiations for public servants’ salary increases, adding he hopes for an “amicable” resolution.
PM: Authorities quiz FTX founder
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said yesterday he was informed that embattled former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried has been interviewed by local authorities as investigations continue into the collapse of the crypto giant.
FTX impact
The full financial, social and political impact of FTX’s collapse is far from being known – in my view. One thing is certain, and that is a multitude of ordinary hardworking folks throughout the world have lost their whole life savings – or a significant portion of it as a result of FTX’s burst bubble.
Best of the Best regatta sets sail in Montagu
THE Ministry of Agriculture’s return of the Best of the Best Regatta kicked off yesterday in Montagu Bay.
Three more athletes added to Walk of Fame
WORLD and Olympic champions Shaunae Miller- Uibo and Steven Gardiner and their World Relays’ mixed relay gold medal teammate Anthonique Strachan were the latest athletes added to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s Legends Walk of Fame.
50th Carifta Games set for April 7-10
AMIDST the backdrop of the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) officially launched the hosting of the 50th CARIFTA Games to commemorate the Bahamas’ 50th anniversary of Independence.
Undefeated Cavaliers secure 40-31 win over Freedom Baptist Warriors
IT was another day in the office for coach Wilton Johnson and his Mt Carmel Cavaliers senior boys basketball team last night.
Voucher system to help children’s development
A CONTRACT for the universal pre-primary education, public private pre-school partnership programme was signed yesterday at the Ministry of Education.
Team Bahamas named for 4th Caribbean Baseball Cup
Team Bahamas is ready to take on the region at the 4th Caribbean Baseball Cup.
Jamaal Rolle: Legends Walk of Fame ‘serves as landmark for the country’
BAHAMIAN celebrity artist Jamaal Rolle may have outdone himself in producing the 69 portraits of past and present Bahamian sporting superstars for the relaunch of the Legends Walk of Fame outside of the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
IAN FERGUSON: Exploit public relations to drive customer traffic
Clarity is critical in all kinds of business communications, yet can be difficult to achieve. Unlike paid marketing programmes such as advertising, public relations is focused on earned media and can take advantage of unpaid communications channels. Public relations is about managing perceptions, namely how people think about your business.
Bahamas eyes travel ease for Saudi and Middle East
THE deputy prime minister has suggested that visa waivers and electronic visas will be some of the tools employed to boost travel to The Bahamas from Saudi Arabia and other Middle East states.
Aviation optimistic over ‘booked solid’ Christmas
BAHAMIAN aviation operators yesterday said they were optimistic a “booked solid” Christmas period will escape the flight delays and clogged airport ramp that impacted last year’s festive period.
Grand Lucayan: Focus on buyer not maximum price
THE Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday argued that the Government should drop its obsession with maximising the Grand Lucayan’s sales price and instead focus on finding the right buyer.
Bail granted in firearm possession case
A MAN was granted $3,000 bail yesterday after allegedly being found by police with a loaded pistol over the summer.
Two accused of drugs charges
TWO MEN were charged in a Magistrates Court yesterday on separate drug charges, with one facing a $1,000 fine after admitting to owning a pound of marijuana.
Cat Island
This letter is addressed to the attention of our Prime Minister of the Bahamas, also the representative of Cat Island.
Sensible plan?
IS government development of housing in a country, especially on New Providence with very little useable real estate left, the policy of this Government and of the past sensible?
Thursday, December 1
STATESIDE: The Bahamas makes front page news after FTX collapse
A FRIEND and Bahamaphile was unhappy on Monday morning. “Did you see the headline on the front page of the Washington Post?” she exclaimed. “The Bahamas was mentioned in a near-banner headline, front page, top of the fold, the first thing a reader saw that day. And guess why? The Post sent a reporter down to Nassau to investigate the collapse of this now-bankrupt cryptocurrency firm FTX that had set up its headquarters out west in Albany.
FRONT PORCH: Making good public policy is hard work
WE often cook up public policy in The Bahamas in a similar manner to which an unsatisfying and innutritious meal is slapped together. There is little forethought, no clear recipe, with all kinds of slam bam ingredients hurriedly mixed together.
Goodman’s Bay Park ‘an eyesore’
GOODMAN’S Bay Park has become an eyesore as some residents have complained about the distressed state the park’s playground is in.
EDITORIAL: FTX founder’s long list of unknowns
FOR someone in charge of a multi-billion operation, Sam Bankman-Fried seems to not know a lot of things.
‘Stop union-busting’
UNION leaders yesterday called on the Davis administration to stop its “union busting tactics” calling the government’s recent announcement about forthcoming salary increases for public servants that were reportedly made without consultation “a blatant disregard for unions”.
Taxi union says minister is missing in action
WESLEY Ferguson, president of the Bahamas Taxi Cab Union, said yesterday that union members are still awaiting correspondence from the Ministry of Transport and Housing on the issue of the regulation of taxi plates.
Brokers fret as Customs revenue $15m up on ‘19
Brokers yesterday warned the cost of clearing goods into The Bahamas will likely increase in the New Year as Customs revealed its revenue collections year-to-date have increased by $15m compared to pre-COVID levels.
‘Slap in the face’ on Dorian’s tax breaks
The Government was yesterday accused of delivering “a slap in the face” to Abaco and Grand Bahama by confirming that both islands’ present Dorian-related tax breaks expire today as scheduled.
Liquidators to go after FTX Bahamas payouts
The joint provisional liquidators for FTX’s Bahamian subsidiary are “guaranteed” to go after any payouts to local investors if they violated the Supreme Court freeze imposed as the crypto exchange imploded, it was revealed yesterday.
East Grand Bahama women fly to Nassau for free mammograms
THIRTY women from East Grand Bahama were flown to Nassau to receive free mammogram screenings at Doctors Hospital on Friday.
Two new cruise ships sail to Grand Bahama
TWO new cruise ships are expected to make inaugural voyages to Grand Bahama, with one arriving this week.
12th grader receives $30,000 empowerment scholarship
KIERIA Woodside, the recipient of the $30,000 Golden Gates Female Empowerment Scholarship, thanked her family for the motivation to excel despite the odds.
CIBC’s New Year halt to in-branch payments
CIBC FirstCaribbean last night justified its decision to halt physical in-branch transactions from January 3 - a move that will impact thousands of Bahamians - by asserting that 85 percent of clients are already using digital banking channels.
Boy, 9, dies after collision while out riding his bike
THE family of a nine-year-old boy who was killed in a tragic traffic accident on Tuesday are devastated and struggling to come to terms with his untimely death.
FNM vice-chairman sues party leaders
FREE National Movement vice-chairman Richard Johnson has taken legal action against party leaders Michael Pintard and Dr Duane Sands after being banned from attending future council meetings, which he claimed violated the party’s constitution.
‘I did not try to commit FTX fraud’
FORMER FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried said he did not try to commit fraud and unknowingly commingled funds of his company’s customers with his hedge fund Alameda Research.
Three years in jail over assault rifle
A MAN was sentenced to three years in prison in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after admitting to having a banned assault rifle last week.
Matchup set for hometown lenders Bahamas Bowl
THE matchup is set for the 2022 HomeTown Lenders Bahamas Bowl and the NCAA Division I Bowl season is set to begin in The Bahamas.
Lightbourne and Dames lead Blue Devils to win over ranked team
BRADLEY Lightbourne, Joshua Dames and their Kansas City Kansas Community College Blue Devils continue to play one of the most difficult schedules in JuCo basketball and defeated their second ranked team of the young season.
Man accused of hitting policeman with car
A MAN was granted $5,000 bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being accused of hitting a police officer with his car and resisting arrest.
Solomon’s cannot revive GB
Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey recently told attendees at The Winn ceremony that the revitalisation of downtown Freeport is finally here.
The causes of crime
As A trained lawyer, albeit a defrocked one, I had extensive practice before the Criminal Defence Bar during my hey days. In fact, at any given time, I commanded 80 per cent or more of the most heinous cases before all courts, the Supreme and Magistrates included. The other lawyers were obliged to literally, in some case, fight for the crumbs. As such, I came to understand the economic and psychology of crime and the causation.
Man accused of gun threat
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after allegedly threatening someone with a handgun.
Suspect faces court over rape accusation
A MAN was yesterday accused of raping a woman in the nation’s capital late last month.
Free food for needy
Should those who really have a lot go online when there is ‘free food’ being distributed and partake? Surely their conscience pricks them?
