Thursday, June 30
Calvary Deliverance celebrates 40 years
CALVARY Deliverance Church started 40 years ago in the home of its founding pastor. Today the church stands committed shepherding the spiritual lives of those that walk through its doors and being a resource of hope for those in the community.
STATESIDE: Flip side of abortion ruling could throw Democrats a lifeline
YOU may revere him. You may revile him. You may just yearn for his disappearance from American public life. But to deny that ex-President Donald Trump was uncannily wise at anticipating emotionally-charged socio-political trends in the thinking of voters in the US is to overlook an important aspect of recent American political life.
FRONT PORCH: What future lies ahead for the British Monarchy?
BESET by economic woes including rising inflation, low growth and increasing labour unrest - and an unpopular Boris Johnson whom most voters would like to exit Number 10 posthaste - the recent Platinum Jubilee extravaganza in the United Kingdom, celebrating the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, was arguably the sort of gin and tonic that Britain temporarily needed.
EDITORIAL: Gloves are off for Minnis vs Sands
IT’S the FNM fight you’ve all been waiting for… in the red corner, former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, and in the other red corner, his former Health Minister, Dr Duane Sands.
Small home repair scheme to start next month
DISASTER Reconstruction Authority executive chairman Alex Storr said officials plan to start the first phase of the Small Home Repair Programme by early next month.
Man dies after stabbing in Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama Police are investigating a murder after a man was stabbed to death on Wednesday evening at a local bar establishment in Freeport.
PAHO: Prepare now for post-COVID
PAN American Health Organisation (PAHO) director Carissa Etienne has urged countries in the region to prepare health systems now on how to deal with post COVID -19 conditions.
Family rescues private chef stranded on Antholl Island
A NORMAL family day out at sea ended with a twist after a group of cousins rescued a man who was stranded on Atholl Island.
Miller-Uibo joins Special Olympians at reception
THE Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development’s National Commission for Persons with Disabilities hosted a reception for Special Olympics athletes and medalists.
‘No bang for the buck’: Insurer eases off motor
A Bahamian insurer says it is “shying away” from providing third-party motor coverage because “the bang for the buck is not worth it” when returns are weighed against potential losses.
Hotel union aims to close ‘four of five’ this summer
The hotel union’s president yesterday said it is targeting “by summer’s end” to conclude negotiations on at least four of five outstanding industrial agreements in a bid to ease “tremendous pressure” on workers.
Make Gov’t debt ‘best in country’
A well-known businessman is arguing that the Government’s securities must again become “the best debt in the country” as he hailed the Central Bank’s reversal of its public brokerage services.
Unions hold off on liveable wage push
Trade unions are not pushing to “immediately implement” a livable wage despite The Bahamas’ deepening cost of living crisis, a labour leader affirmed yesterday, saying: “No one wants to kill the hen that lays the golden egg.”
Outgoing Central Bank chief warns on ‘procedural overkill’
The Central Bank’s departing chief enforcer says it is “essential” that The Bahamas continue to beat anti-financial crime regulatory standards but do so without imposing “procedural overkill” on low-risk clients.
Sustainability plan at brewery
COMMONWEALTH Brewery Limited is exploring solar energy and eco-friendly packaging to advance the company’s sustainability agenda.
National Trust and Defence Force sign memorandum
MARKING their continued partnership, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the Bahamas National Trust has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to protect The Bahamas’ natural resources.
EY Bahamas’ new office in Freeport ‘positive addition’
The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Ltd. has announced that EY Bahamas Ltd will open a new office in Freeport.
Students turned scientists
IN THE Bahamas, one of the first countries in the world to protect sharks, seven students from a small high school jumped aboard and in the water without a second thought to help tag Caribbean reef and nurse sharks under the watchful eye and professional guidance of research scientists from Beneath the Waves.
Customer robbed at Scotiabank on Bay Street
A ROBBERY took place this morning at Scotiabank on Bay Street.
Murder victim was cleared of teacher’s death
A MAN whose conviction was overturned in relation to the murder of a Queen’s College teacher was himself killed on Tuesday, The Tribune was told.
Former PM tests positive for COVID
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has tested positive for COVID-19.
Nurses hold licence for strike action
BAHAMAS Nurses Union president Amancha Williams confirmed to The Tribune that the union received a strike certificate yesterday.
Minnis fires off letter at Sands ‘interference’
FREE National Movement chairman Dr Duane Sands yesterday staunchly defended his role in the party’s leadership, calling accusations that he interfered in the internal affairs of former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ constituency as nothing but an “unnecessary distraction.”
TARGET STATES SENDING GUNS: Rolle says police have identified key suppliers for Bahamas criminals
THE Royal Bahamas Police Force has pinpointed three US states as points of origin for illegal guns that are turning up in The Bahamas.
Suns make qualifying offer to Ayton
The NBA free agency period begins in earnest today (see sidebar) and the contract situation between Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns remains one of the most speculated on the market.
Gorospe dominates Caribbean amateur junior golf
AIDEN Gorospe continues to be the top performer thus far for Team Bahamas at the 34th Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships in Humacao, Puerto Rico.
Azariah Smith gets the opportunity of a lifetime
AWARDED SCHOLARSHIP TO THE IMG ACADEMY IN FLORIDA NEXT FALL
PREP basketball player Azariah Smith received the opportunity of a lifetime when she was awarded a scholarship to one of the most prestigious sports academies in Florida.
‘Jazz’ Chisholm Jr placed on 10-day injured list with ‘a nagging back issue’
JASRADO “Jazz” Chisholm Jr continues to struggle with a nagging back issue that has forced him to the injured list.
Jones posts 6th double-double of season
(AP) – BAHAMIAN WNBA star Jonquel Jones scored 24 points with 11 rebounds and five steals but it wasn’t enough as the Chicago Sky beat the Connecticut Sun 91-83 yesterday.
Two accused over Indian hemp
TWO men were granted $5,000 bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being arrested for allegedly having almost $15,000 worth of Indian Hemp.
Sir ‘Sonny’ Ramphal releases papers detailing public life
CARIBBEAN and Commonwealth elder statesman, Sir Shridath Ramphal, has released papers on the internet, covering 72 years of public life in the Caribbean, the Commonwealth and internationally.
No VAT ‘holiday’ makes life harder for building suppliers
A building materials supplier yesterday voiced hope that this year may see another temporary VAT ‘holiday’ so persons can stock up on hurricane supplies even though the Davis administration has given no hint it will reinstate the practice.
Down Home feel sparks a 33% brand expansion
A concept store that aims to provide a platform for Bahamian entrepreneurs to exhibit their wares has increased its brand membership by one-third within months of opening.
Dancing on the streets
Oh, back come Goombay Summer and da-junkanoo...well it’s New Day/PLP why wouldn’t they organise an expensive event to keep us natives happy through summer? Why? Didn’t dare call it Carnival - remember that Siorn fiasco? When is Tourism going to understand visitors are not interested in junkanoo... the 2021-2022 season Christmas and New Year’s this year. No parades - hotels full to overflowing!
The Marxist Leninist neighbour
The month of June saw an uptick in the number of Cuban migrants being apprehended by Defence Force and US Coast Guard personnel.
Anger management ordered after attack on man’s partner
A MAN was ordered to attend anger management courses by a Magistrate’s Court yesterday after admitting to assaulting his female business partner.
Man accused over gun and ammo
A MAN was granted bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday after facing firearm and ammunition charges.
Bail granted in bottle attack case
A MAN was granted bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday for allegedly attacking another man with a glass bottle.
Team Bahamas suffers another lopsided loss
TEAM Bahamas suffered another lopsided loss to Puerto Rico and remains winless headed into the bronze medal game at the FIBA Centrobasket Under-15 Championships for women.
Man shot dead in Pinedale Road area
A MAN was shot dead in the Pinedale Road area Wednesday night leaving the local community reeling from the nation’s 70th murder this year.
Wednesday, June 29
ALICIA WALLACE: Turning back the clock for ears and minds that won’t open
LAST Friday, in a 6-3 majority vote, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade, the 1973 ruling that a woman’s liberty to choose to have an abortion was protected by the constitution.
Ministry issues warning over sea lice and jellyfish
THE Ministry of Health and Wellness has issued an advisory warning the public of sea lice and jellyfish bites.
Blankets for dialysis patients
THE Bahamas Kidney Association (BKA) brought smiles to the faces of dialysis patients with a donation of 250 pairs of socks and blankets.
EDITORIAL: Is this how government speaks to investors?
THE tone of dialogue between the government and the company hunting for treasure from ships on the Bahamian seabed has taken a turn for the worse – and then some.
UK announces new High Commissioner
THE United Kingdom has announced the change of the British high commissioner to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
Carbon monoxide confirmed as cause of Exuma deaths
ASPHYXIATION due to carbon monoxide poisoning was yesterday confirmed as the cause of death of three people who died at Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma nearly two months ago.
‘Help eliminate disability discrimination’
EXECUTIVES of The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities are urging the public to help eliminate discrimination on the basis of disabilities.
Stock split revival with Fidelity ‘on $25m track’
Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) will unveil plans for its long-awaited stock split at next month’s shareholder meeting, its chief executive revealed yesterday, as it eyes a total $17.5m dividend payout to investors in 2022
Expanding law firm: ‘We don’t want to be Starbucks’
A Bahamian law firm says that while its Amsterdam expansion has paved the way for partnership discussions with European and African counterparts, it has no plans to become a “Starbucks” equivalent.
Court: Race ‘sabotage’ worker’s firing justified
The Island School’s former chief administrator, who was fired for bad-mouthing her employer as “a racist and sexist organisation that was willfully breaking” Immigration laws, has had her termination upheld by the Supreme Court.
Fishermen ‘ride out the storm’ of high fuel costs
Bahamian fishermen yesterday said they have no choice but “to ride out the storm” of high fuel prices amid hopes that crawfish prices for the fast-approaching season can provide some offset.
FOCOL chief: Make ‘every possible effort’ on Venezuela relief
FOCOL Holdings chairman yesterday urged the Prime Minister and his government to make “every possible effort” to have sanctions on Venezuela removed as the release of its oil will likely have “a material impact” on world markets.
Munroe: Trials more efficient after rule changes
WHILE admitting that an issue facing criminal court cases is generally the preparedness of the prosecution to proceed, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe said a lot of rules have now been put in place to make trials more efficient.
Child is abducted and raped in Grand Bahama
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said yesterday the abduction and rape of a young child in Grand Bahama is very disturbing.
Protest outside office of PM
A SMALL group of contract workers demonstrated peacefully about compensation owed to them outside the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday.
Gas suppliers predict price falling in weeks
THE vice president of the Bahamas Petroleum Dealers Association says he expects gas prices to decrease slightly “within the next week or two” due to falling oil costs abroad.
‘MAKE THE DEAL’: Rolle sees plea bargains as way to clear backlogs and protect suspects out on bail
POLICE Commissioner Paul Rolle is a proponent of plea bargaining, pointing to challenges with the judicial system that have created criminal case backlogs, ultimately delaying justice in some cases.
Treasure seekers told - leave if you don’t like it
THE Minister of National Security said the company exploring for sunken treasure is welcome to leave The Bahamas if they are not willing to accept the government’s new terms.
Teenager denies ‘rape’ in hospital incident
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said both a 14-year-old girl and 52-year-old patient have denied an alleged incident at the Princess Margaret Hospital.
Bail granted in car damage case
A WOMAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday for intentionally breaking another woman’s car.
Junior golfers in the mix at Caribbean Amateur Championships
ALTHOUGH they got off to a slow start after the first day of competition at the 34th Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships, manager Gina Gonzalez-Rolle is confident that Team Bahamas will get into the swing of things in Humacao, Puerto Rico.
Higgs, Weech to represent Bahamas at Youth Sailing World Championships next month in the Netherlands
FOURTEEN-year-old Ellianne Higgs and 16-year-old Joshua Weech emerged as the nation’s top ranked boy and girl in the Laser (Radial) sailboat class
Hornets’ Kai Jones takes part in Elite Skills Camp
KAI Jones, the latest Bahamian to play in the National Basketball Association, took time out during a short break at home to participate in the 9th annual Denykco Bowles Elite Skills Basketball Camp.
Bahamas girls lose by 100 points to Mexico
Despite losing their third straight game of the FIBA Under-15 Centrobasket Championships by 100 points, head coach Varel Davis said there is still hope of Team Bahamas turning things around for the playoffs.
Jailed after series of thefts on Andros
AN ANDROS MAN was sentenced to two years and three months in prison yesterday after a series of thefts on the island and escaping the local police station.
Three months in jail for assault
A magistrate’s court sentenced a man to three months in prison for assaulting a woman with a figurine.
Three accused over firearm, ammunition and drugs
THREE men and a woman appeared in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with firearm, ammunition and drug offences.
Appeal application for bail denied for murder accused
THE Bahamas Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal application of murder accused Dentawn Grant, who was denied bail by a Supreme Court judge for his own safety after attempts were made on his life.
Gas prices are rising too high
Rebuilding a strong economy is the task of every government. But it is very important to realise that rebuilding a stronger economy begins with rebuilding the low and middle class families.
Yachts and rising debt
So, Government wants to encourage Private Yacht registration to the Bahamas flag. Zeroing duty and VAT has zero connection to enticing a yacht owner to register their yacht under the Bahamas Registry.
Counselling order over drug possession
A MAN was ordered to attend drug counselling classes after pleading guilty in the Magistrate’s court yesterday to possessing Indian Hemp.
Three dead in bloody 24 hours
THREE men were killed in separate incidents less than 24 hours apart, pushing the country’s murder count to 69 for the year.
Tuesday, June 28
PETER YOUNG: This is more than a friendly talking shop but somewhere real work is done
Determining different and interesting topics to write about in this column can be challenging. But today it was a simple task to decide to concentrate on the week-long Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, known as CHOGM, in the Rwandan capital Kigali which ended last Sunday.
FACE TO FACE: ‘Reaching the lost and reshaping lives’
AS QUEEN Elizabeth II enjoys her Platinum Jubilee, one group in The Bahamas is commemorating the occasion in a special way.
EDITORIAL: Once more, Venezuela touted as a solution
THE price of gas may be around $7 a gallon right now, but Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis has a solution, it seems – Venezuela.
Davis says govt will ‘hold the line’ on NIB increase
AN increase in National Insurance Board contributions will not come off the table until the Davis administration decides whether or not to accept the recommendations of experts regarding the sustainability of the NIB fund, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday.
PM: ‘international efforts bearing fruit’
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis says not only do world leaders want to strengthen their relationship with The Bahamas, but they also see the country as a viable option to invest.
‘When will we learn?'
A viral video has called into question the regulation of conch harvesting and overfishing practices despite consistent warnings of “serial depletion” in recent years.
‘Sky is not falling in’ on NIB - yet
THE Government still has multiple reform options to rescue the National Insurance Board (NIB) from collapse if it acts now, a pensions specialist asserted yesterday, adding: “The sky is not falling in” yet.
Ex-marina chief doubtful on PM’s yacht registry ambition
A prominent marina operator yesterday voiced doubt that eliminating 10 percent Customs duty on so-called “pleasure vessels” will spark development of a yacht registry as envisioned by the Prime Minister.
Bahamians take ‘partial’ medicine on VAT return
THE Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) former leader says Bahamians have increasingly been obtaining “partial” as opposed to full prescriptions after VAT was reimposed on medicines with effect from January 1.
Lack of budget objectives hits climate spend analysis
THE absence of specific spending objectives in the annual Budget makes it difficult to assess whether the $126.5m allocated for climate change and disaster mitigation in 2021-2022 had the desired effect, it was revealed yesterday.
Two boat theft suspects rescued as vessel drifts
TWO suspected boat thieves were rescued at sea after the vessel, which it was believed they had stolen, was discovered drifting in waters off Grand Bahama earlier this week.
Motorists’ misery only just begun
THE Ministry of Works and Utilities said the Village Road Improvement project is slated for completion at the latest in November as some citizens complain about the inconvenience of road repairs and closures in the area.
PMH incident - let’s wait for the facts
SOCIAL Services Minister Obie Wilchcombe said an alleged incident involving a minor at the Princess Margaret Hospital raises alarm and sheds light on security at the hospital.
Pintard asks Brave to explain duty cut
OPPOSITION leader Michael Pintard has called on government to explain its rationale for removing the ten percent duty on pleasure sailing craft.
Cooking gas suppliers in 68% increase plea
Stressed dealers are pleading with the government for a 68 percent increase in the price of cooking gas to secure the industry’s survival in an “horrendous” climate where some are losing up to $500,000 per year.
EMBARGO REMOVAL COULD BE SOLUTION: PM sees opening up Venezuela trade as answer to gas crisis
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis believes the key to relief for Bahamians concerning escalating gas prices and higher energy costs is wrapped up in the removal of sanctions on Venezuela.
Marine turtles
While it is not surprising that Kim Aranha would respond vigorously to my letter deploring the Ingraham government’s insensitive and unnecessary ban on turtle meat consumption, it is disappointing that, in doing so, she either overlooked or chose to ignore its principal points.
Drumeco Archer pleased with athletes’ performances
BAAA NATIONAL TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS
THE performances from the cross-section of elite, collegian and locally-based athletes at the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ National Track and Field Championships got the attention of BAAA president Drumeco Archer.
Pauline Davis: ‘What Jonquel said about BTC in America was wrong’
OLYMPIC champion Pauline Davis said it’s unfair for Grand Bahamian Women’s National Basketball Association star player Jonquel Jones to attack the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) over her sponsorship in the manner that she did.
BIG3 set to return to The Bahamas
THE BIG3 is set to return to The Bahamas in 2022 and will highlight its fifth season of professional 3-on-3 basketball by hosting its All-Star festivities at the Atlantis resort.
Chavez Young named player of the week
CHAVEZ Young has excelled with the Buffalo Bison since his return to Triple-A baseball and was recognised as the club’s Player of the Week.
Corrington Maycock voted in as new president of Bahamas Association of Athletic Coaches
IN a keenly contested election of officers on Saturday, Blue Chips Throwers Club founder and head coach Corrington Maycock was voted in as the new president of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Coaches.
Junior girls hope to ‘get back into medal round’
FIBA Centrobasket Under-15 Girls Championship
Head coach Varel Davis said the Bahamas junior girls national team is a very young team, but they are performing as best as they can at the FIBA Centrobasket Under-15 Girls Championship.
Jailed for bid to steal bumper
A MAN was sentenced to three months in prison yesterday for trying to steal a man’s car bumper.
Man accused of rape
A MAN was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services yesterday after he faced a rape charge.
Bail over death threats
A MAN and a woman were granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday on separate charges of threats of death.
Man guilty of housebreaking
AN ANDROS man was sentenced to nine months in prison yesterday on charges related to housebreaking, stealing and damage.
Need to know
In the Minnis Administration we had a High Commissioner to CARICOM... full time working at Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Struggling to buy gas? Blame Biden
Who would’ve thought that Bahamians would have to pay an astounding $7 for one gallon of gasoline? A 2022 Chevrolet Equinox gasoline tank holds 14.9 gallons.
Banking options
Why is it that the same handful of Canadian banks continue to hold the Bahamian people hostage after all these years? Why are these banks even operating in The Bahamas when they clearly don’t want to interact with or have anything to do with our citizens and only serve customers grudgingly, as if they were doing us a favour?
Monday, June 27
WORLD VIEW: Time is overdue for correcting a foolish wrong
IT IS time that several nations, led in the Western Hemisphere by the US and Canada, correct a foolish wrong. Among those countries are two member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), namely Haiti and Jamaica.
THE KDK REPORT: Thicker than water
FEAR is unpredictable. It can turn the brave into heroes or lay bare previously camouflaged cowardly traits for the world to see. But in our darkest hour and for a small few, the fear of the unknown can manifest courage so great it nearly defies explanation. Those are the stories that make headlines. It can also allow those willing to face the storm directly to channel their adversities with grace.
INSIGHT: Ambitions unfulfilled and no sign things will get better any time soon
THE countdown clock has begun to the celebrations for Bahamian Independence – but as we reach that 49th anniversary, how is our nation faring?
EDITORIAL: Tax for bread but not for yachts?
THIS one is going to be a little hard to justify for the administration.
HMBS Flamingo captain honoured at ceremony
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe honoured distinguished Defence Force and HMBS Flamingo survivor Captain Witfield Neely at an awards ceremony Sunday.
‘Horrendous June’ cuts Aquapure’s output 40%
A Bahamian bottled water supplier has endured "an horrendous June" after equipment failure and a "bonkers" supply chain cut production for the month by 40 percent.
Health insurance VAT: 'This is not about money'
The Government has undertaken not to change the VAT treatment of private medical insurance claims until a full study is done, its top finance official asserting: "This is not about trying to get tax money."
Man arrested after $10k marijuana discovery
A MAN was arrested in Grand Bahama after he was discovered with about $10,000 worth of marijuana.
Technology provider eyes data recovery laboratory
A Bahamian technology provider says it is investing in a “data recovery laboratory” that will employ biometrics, and face and voice recognition, to help prevent fraud in an increasingly digital world.
Assessing how robust your security systems really are
The annual report on crime, and related trends, by the Commissioner of Police should be applauded. It is a commendable attempt at transparency, allowing members of the public - who are also major stakeholders in the fight against crime - to make assessments of the Royal Bahamas Police Force's performance, efficiency and reliability.
Time for a new global order which deals everyone a fair hand
ActivTrades
SINCE the financial crisis of 2008, the idea that globalisation is doomed gained traction in some circles, fed by the rise of nationalist movements, trade wars, the COVID pandemic and, most recently, the war in Ukraine. The free capital flows and open borders trading, which characterised the global economy over the past four decades, currently face a serious backlash.
Independence events revealed
THE National Independence Secretariat is set to kick off the 49th Independence celebrations on Friday under the theme: “Proud to Be Bahamian”.
Crash fatality was thrown from plane
A NEW report has recalled the final harrowing moments before a small plane crashed at Long Island, ejecting and ultimately killing a mother-of-one who was sitting at the rear of the aircraft.
PMH child ‘incident’ is probed by police
EQUALITY Bahamas has called for a full investigation into an incident at the Princess Margaret Hospital involving a minor, while it accused the institution of failing to maintain a safe environment.
Slain marine was due to leave force
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force marine seaman Joevonte Miller, who was gunned down on Thursday night, was just weeks away from leaving the force, according to National Security Minister Wayne Munroe yesterday.
Gibson should weigh his ‘duty and honour’
NATIONAL Security Wayne Munroe Minister said yesterday officials will be ready to hold a by-election should embattled Long Island MP Adrian Gibson resign his seat in the House of Assembly.
WHY SUDDEN AXE FOR BOAT DUTY?
The Opposition last night accused the government of “sneaking” in a tax break for the rich by ordering Customs to eliminate the ten percent duty rate on so-called “pleasure vessels” outside the normal Budget process.
Abortion: Liberator or...?
I hate this subject with a passion. Nothing can drive apart a relationship, group of people or stop a conversation like abortion.
After Shock Amateur Boxing Show in honour of Ray Minus Jr
ROYCE Colebrooke, Devaughn Musgrove, Christian Thompson and John Saint Wrint were among some of the top performers on Saturday at the After Shock Amateur Boxing Show that was held in honour of Ray Minus Jr.
Davis Cup: Team Bahamas avoids relegation to Group IV
THE Bahamas Davis Cup team, captained by Marvin Rolle and featuring Kevin Major Jr and brother Baker and Spencer Newman, avoided relegation to Group IV in Davis Cup play by winning their final match against Guatemala.
‘Buddy’ headlines training camp for Sr Men’s National Team
MIAMI, Florida — The Bahamas senior men’s national basketball team is back on the path toward FIBA World Cup 2023 qualification and that journey began in earnest this week with an offsite training camp.
‘Prince Jazz’ and ‘Bahamian Heritage Night’ centre stage
MIAMI, Florida — The Miami Marlins organisation transformed its home stadium into a celebration of the relationship between the franchise and The Bahamas, highlighted by its rising star at second base, poised for his first All-Star appearance.
Devynne Charlton breaks her national record in 100m hurdles
BAHAMAS ASSOCIATION OF ATHLETIC ASSOCIATIONS’ NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
NATIONAL record-breaking performances by hurdlers Devynne Charlton and Antoine Andrews overshadowed the superb efforts by Olympic champions Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner during the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ National Championships this weekend.
In response to Andrew Allen
I feel compelled to address some of the points raised by Mr Andrew Allen in a letter to you last week and published on June 20th.
Sunday, June 26
Man shot dead at East Street plaza
A MAN was fatally shot on Friday at an East Street plaza as he was in the process of collecting someone.
Friday, June 24
DeMarco Foundation voices support for Jonquel Jones
THE president and director of local LGBTQIA+ group The DeMarco Foundation voiced support for Jonquel Jones after the WNBA star said her sexuality hindered her marketability.
Pompey Square hosts Regional HIV Testing Day
BAHAMIANS from all walks of life gathered in Pompey Square for Regional HIV Testing Day (RTD) on Friday.
Defence Force extends condolences to family of murdered marine
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force has extended condolences to the family of Marine Seaman Joevonte Miller, who was murdered on Thursday night.
DIANE PHILLIPS: A whole lot of hot air and for what?
ON a bright Saturday morning, a short, paunchy man with a ruddy complexion, round face and a cherubic grin climbed the stairs and entered the front door. His personality was as sunny as his name, though I was never sure if Sonny was his real name (I always meant to ask) or if it was because of the role he played. He was one of the mischievous original Little Rascals on TV and screen and for most of his latter years, he made Nassau his home.
EDITORIAL: We need to talk to Cuba
WHEN Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis flew to the Summit of the Americas held in Los Angeles earlier this month, he pointed out a notable absentee. Cuba.
‘We have not been consulted by govt on marijuana legislation’
HIGH priest Rithmond McKinney said the Davis administration has not consulted with his community regarding their sacramental rights as officials move to finalise legislation that will regulate medical cannabis and industrial hemp industries.
Technical problems delay report card collection
THE Ministry of Education has announced a delay in report card collection at all public schools due to technical challenges with the ministry’s Learning Management System.
$500,000 for women’s shelter
THE government has allocated $500,000 for a new women’s shelter, it was revealed in the Senate.
Leader award for Bahamian farmer
BAHAMIAN farmer Deon Gibson, an agricultural enthusiast, has been recognised as a “Leader of Rurality”.
Red Cross award for Abaco woman
THE Bahamas Red Cross Society has named Christine Lightbourne as the first Bahamian recipient of the Henry Dunant Medal.
Cut $11.8bn debt ‘absolutely’ amid growing distress fears
The Bahamas must slash its $11.843bn national debt in “absolute” terms, a top banker urged yesterday, after this nation was named among ten countries whose bonds are now trading at “distressed” levels.
Soaring gas prices are a ‘silent killer’
Family Island Chamber of Commerce presidents yesterday described soaring gas prices as “the silent killer” for economic activity, with one branding current pump costs as “crazy”.
Realtor enjoys 25% Freeport sales rise
A prominent Bahamian realtor says sales activity in Freeport has increased by 25 percent over the past year as its economic revival ramps up, adding that the city’s “time has come”.
Workers won't see 'equitable rebound'
Bahamian workers are unlikely to enjoy an “equitable rebound” in employment conditions post-COVID, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is warning, with the pandemic likely to have worsened existing skills gaps and mismatches.
Gov’t ‘adds insult to injury’ with medical VAT reforms
Health insurers have yet to meet the Prime Minister over VAT reforms that threaten to increase medical bills and healthcare costs, with the Government yesterday accused of “adding insult to injury” for thousands of Bahamians.
Corporation’s ‘lifeline’ for tourism businesses
Throughout the Caribbean and in the many parts of the world where tourism reigns, tourism development organisations and agencies have reshaped the template for visitor experiences. The Bahamas’ own Tourism Development Corporation, in similar fashion, is poised to redefine how we deliver goods and services to the tens of millions of tourists who visit our shores annually.
Lightning strike hits water supplies
WATER and Sewerage customers residing in central, southern and eastern New Providence may experience periods of reduced water pressure over the next 24 hours.
‘Why hire these new contract workers?’
A FREE National Movement senator yesterday questioned increased funding in the Davis administration’s 2022/2023 Budget for contract workers.
Union says system has failed schools
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers has said that the Ministry of Education must admit that its Learning Management System has failed teachers and students, as it called for an operable virtual platform to be implemented.
Defence Force officer murdered
POLICE are trying to piece together the circumstances surrounding the murder of a serving Royal Bahamas Defence Force officer last night.
CUBAN MIGRANTS LEAD NEW WAVE OF REFUGEES: Pinder warns numbers now heading our way is ‘through the roof’
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said officials are seeing an influx of Cuban migrants into the country in higher numbers than before.
Capital Group gives $50k to youth education
TO celebrate its fifth year in business, IX Capital donated $50,000 for youth education in Financial Services.
Jonquel Jones and Christianity
I am hoping that Bahamian WNBA player Jonquel Jones’ public swipe at BTC will not cause any significant retaliation from the US towards The Bahamas. That country is currently governed by a far-left president who officiated the same-sex wedding ceremony of two White House staffers, Brian Mosteller and Joe Mahshie, in 2016.
Referenda and citizenship
Once again the government, through Attorney General Ryan Pinder, has foreshadowed its plan to introduce legislation to bring about citizenship changes which the referendums of 2002 and 2016 did not. In my view, this is rather unfortunate.
Juveniles put on probation for gay slurs and throwing rocks
TWO male juveniles were put on a year’s probation by a Magistrate’s Court yesterday for hurling rocks and homophobic slurs at a man last year.
One more death from COVID recorded
THE Bahamas has recorded another 77 COVID-19 cases and one death, according to the Ministry of Health & Wellness.
Boy’s home escapee ‘made gun threat’
A 16-YEAR-OLD boy was sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services after escaping Simpson Penn School for Boys and threatening a man with a gun.
Woman attacked former business partner with piece of wood
A WOMAN was put on six months’ probation yesterday after threatening and attacking a former female business partner with a piece of wood.
Two accused over weapons
TWO men were separately sentenced in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday - one in connection with possession of a component part of a firearm and another for carrying arms.
DPM ‘not concerned’ on Fintech regulatory threat
The Deputy Prime Minister says The Bahamas is “not concerned” about the potential threat of increased international regulatory pressures and scrutiny due to the growth of its digital assets industry.
Bahamian digital asset move drives job creation
The Bahamas’ entry into the digital assets space has created at least 30 jobs, and pumped over $5m into the economy, by attracting new broker/dealers and cryptocurrency exchanges to this nation, a financial provider says
Teen jailed for causing harm
AN 18-year-old youth was sentenced to 18 months in prison yesterday after being found guilty of grievous harm.
National amateur golf champions crowned
After four gruelling rounds of competition at various sites on the island, Heathcliff Kane and Ashley Michel were crowned the Bahamas Golf Federation’s men and women national amateur golf champions.
Davis Cup: Bahamas suffers 2-1 loss to Jamaica
THE Bahamas suffered its second loss in as many days in play at the Davis Cup Group III Americas competition in Escazu, Costa Rica.
‘Coach Yo’ named to men’s national team coaching staff
YOLETT McPhee-McCuin continues to make history in the coaching ranks and achieved another milestone on her résumé when she became the first woman to join the coaching staff of a Bahamas senior men’s national basketball team.
Mets’ Warren Saunders assigned to AAA
NEW York Mets prospect Warren Saunders received the highest promotion of his minor league career thus far.
Bahamas set for Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships
THE Bahamas Golf Federation (BGF) confirms its participation in the upcoming Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships (CAJGC) scheduled for June 28-30 in Puerto Rico.
Team Bahamas ends up fourth overall
FIBA UNDER-15 CENTROBASKET CHAMPIONSHIPS
HAD it not been for two teams pulling out before the start of play, head coach Quentin ‘Three Ounce’ Hall feels the Bahamas’ boys national team would have performed much better at the FIBA Under-15 Centrobasket Championships in Gurabo, Puerto Rico.
Patrick Paul emerges as the overall winner of road cycling nationals
PATRICK Paul, Dorian Roach and Sanchia Fitzmaurice were among the winners of the New Providence Cycling Association Road Championships at the Clifton Heritage Center over the weekend.
Vincent Strachan attends International Boxing Association’s election of officers
BAHAMAS Amateur Boxing Federation President Vincent Strachan got the opportunity to participate in the International Boxing Association’s election of officers recently in Istanbul, Turkey.
New Providence Softball Association to start season July 1-2
PRESIDENT Dwayne Stevens has confirmed that the New Providence Softball Association will now start its 2022 season over the weekend of July 1-2 in the Bankers Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Thursday, June 23
EDITORIAL: Nice words, but what is actually being done?
GLASGOW last year, Rwanda this week, Egypt for the COP27 conference in November … with all this jetting around the world, our climate change problems must be on the way to being solved. No?
FRONT PORCH: Madam Speaker: What will be your legacy?
LAST week, former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Halson Moultrie once again demonstrated why he should never have been elected to the Speakership. He suggested Long Island Member of Parliament, Adrian Gibson should resign his seat after being charged with a number of alleged offences.
STATESIDE: Blurred lines of a conflict where there's no easy exit
WE’VE returned in this space several times over the past four months to the question of the inevitability of US and Western involvement in a shooting war with Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. Even as most major American media focus once again on ex-President Donald Trump, the January 6 committee hearings into his casual incitement of a shocking and fatal riot, and the chances of someone else taking control of the Republican Party before 2024, experts and scholars are quietly wondering aloud if America isn’t already at war with Russia and what it could mean for the short-term future of the world.
One-third of dormant taxi plates ‘rescued’
One-third of the 90 dormant taxi plate holders have paid-off arrears owed to the Government within 48 hours of being warned they would otherwise lose these assets.
Cannabis advocate hails dual track legislation plan
A MEDICAL marijuana and industrial hemp advocate yesterday praised the Government for its dual track approach in seeking to legalise through upcoming legislation.
Gov’t drafting carbon credit exchange law
The Government is developing legislation to establish a carbon credit exchange in The Bahamas to further boost its ambitions to make this nation “a global centre” for the emerging industry.
Capital backs Bahamas: ‘Get past’ 7.2m record
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to quickly “get past” pre-COVID’s record 7.2m visitor arrivals after this nation ranked among the top Caribbean destinations which tourism investment capital is most bullish on.
AG unveils ambition for ‘near shore Delaware’
Insolvency practitioners yesterday said the Attorney General’s ambition for The Bahamas to become “the near shore Delaware of corporate structuring” was both “achievable” and “appropriate” if the correct reforms are made.
AG hails ‘greatest ever Out Islands investment’
The Attorney General yesterday asserted that the Davis administration is making “the greatest investment in the Family Islands of the country that we have seen since independence”.
Real estate transition boost on VAT savings
Parties to real estate deals that are in process could enjoy tax savings worth five-figure sums if they close - and bring their documents forward for stamping - on or after July 1, it was revealed yesterday.
Donations to organisations still down amid pandemic
NON-PROFIT organisations are still struggling to survive amid a slump in donations sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic.
FIBA Centrobasket: Bahamas gets 79-59 win over Turks and Caicos Islands
After a trio of lopsided losses to open the tournament, Team Bahamas responded with a pair of wins to conclude the group stage at the FIBA Under-15 Centrobasket Championships for boys. Team Bahamas defeated The Turks and Caicos Islands 79-59 yesterday at the Fernando ‘Rube’ Hernandez Coliseo in Gurabo, Puerto Rico.
Davis Cup: Bahamas suffers loss to Paraguay
TEAM Bahamas began its current Davis Cup tie with a loss to the top ranked team in its pool. Paraguay scored a 2-1 win over The Bahamas’ team of Kevin Major Jr, Spencer Newman, Baker Newman and Marvin Rolle yesterday at the Costa Rica Country Club in Escazu, Costa Rica.
‘Bring relief to people over high gas prices’
FREE National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright has urged the government to bring relief to Bahamians who are struggling with high gas prices.
Federation names teams for 44th Chess Olympiad in India
THE Bahamas Chess Federation has announced its teams for the 44th Chess Olympiad 2022 in Chennai, India. The event is scheduled to be hosted July 28 to August 10 and will feature more than 100 teams from around the world.
‘90 taxi plates are inactive’
THE Ministry of Transport and Housing has revealed some 90 taxi plates are inactive.
Jazz Chisholm Jr leads All-Star Ballot Returns for NL 2nd Basemen
JASRADO “Jazz” Chisholm Jr emerged as the leading vote getter for National League second baseman after the first return of 2022 MLB All-Star ballots.
Eight months in jail for hitting woman with bat
A WOMAN was sentenced to eight months behind bars for hitting another woman in the head with a metal bat.
Man accused of assault on woman police officer
A MAN was granted bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday after he was charged with assaulting a female police officer, resisting arrest and disorderly behaviour.
Man who hit ex-girlfriend told to take anger classes
A MAN was ordered to attend anger management classes by a magistrate yesterday for assaulting his former girlfriend.
Four accused of stealing
FOUR men were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday on two separate charges of stealing.
Jonquel Jones opens up on price of ‘coming out’
REIGNING WNBA MVP Jonquel Jones claims that her sexuality continues to hinder her marketability - citing a specific local case with one of the country’s leading telecommunications providers.
UPDATED: Traffic fatality on Paradise Island Bridge
POLICE are investigating a traffic fatality that occurred on the southbound Paradise Island bridge on Tuesday night.
'BPL hedging deal is still in place'
BAHAMAS Power & Light Company’s hedging deal is still in place and will continue to cover a portion of the electricity provider’s fuel costs until next year, Latrae Rahming, director of communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, said yesterday.
Govt plans medical cannabis regulation
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder says the Davis administration intends to advance comprehensive legislation to regulate a medical cannabis industry and a separate framework for industrial hemp.
‘We will end vexing issues over citizenship’
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder confirmed yesterday the Davis administration will bring an end to the “vexing” issue of inequality between men and women regarding the transfer of citizenship through the proposed Nationality Bill 2022.
Woman living in bus 'was not squatting'
A WOMAN, who was given 14 days notice by the government to vacate Crown Land in the Bacardi Road area, says she is not squatting. She said government was aware that she was living in the area.
Man killed after two gunmen open fire on group
POLICE are investigating a shooting incident that left a man dead on Tuesday night.
New York makes 13 3-pointers in win over Jones and Sun
UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Stefanie Dolson scored 16 points, including one of New York’s 13 3-pointers with 1:29 left, and Sabrina Ionescu had 11 points, 11 rebounds and six assists to help the Liberty beat the Connecticut Sun 81-77 last night.
Christian Council on remarriage?
I took note of Bahamas Christian Council (BCC) President Bishop Delton Fernander’s statement concerning support for the tightening of laws against rape between legal separation and divorce. In the rarest of rare cases would a level-headed woman give up her body to an estranged husband who has deep pockets. In such a case, the philandering estranged hubby would use his finances to blackmail the financially distressed woman. In the case of physical coercion, it should definitely be classified as rape.
A road by a new name
As an interested party in the resurrection of this ancient road/lane (Eastern Cemetery Lane), about which a Ministry of Works notice appearing in yesterday’s Tribune proposes that it be renamed to Harbourside Way.
THE ART OF GRAPHIX: The right combination in recruitment battles
The battle between qualifications and experience has played out in the business arena for some time. I have met many persons who, with an immense amount of academic knowledge and qualifications, still struggle to secure employment. I am not sure if there is a clear answer to this age-old question, but there are good arguments on both sides.
'TREASURE SHARE MUST FAVOUR US': Govt seeks to secure ‘majority’ of riches found by explorers
A multi-million underwater explorer yesterday said it will cease treasure salvaging in Bahamian waters immediately if the Government's plans to take a "majority" share of the financial rewards prove unworkable.
$2.7m water tanks will help supply in Eleuthera
THE Water and Sewerage Corporation has announced it will execute a $2.7m contract for two one million gallon tanks and an additional $525,000 for related support work in view of water supply interruptions at Central Eleuthera.
PM: We can't win this battle alone
PRIME Minister Philip Brave Davis addressed Commonwealth leaders yesterday and repeated the message he has been telling the world of the dangers to The Bahamas from global warning.
Wednesday, June 22
ALICIA WALLACE: In the heart of Africa, a union of nations seek to work as one
THE Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2022 is now underway in Kigali, Rwanda, after being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
‘No impact’ on tourism from Exuma resort deaths
EXUMA’S tourism numbers remain strong despite the tragic deaths of three American tourists in May at Sandals Emerald Bay Resort.
‘Patience wearing thin’ for nurses
BAHAMAS Nurses Union president Amancha Williams says patience is wearing thin among nurses who are incensed by a lack of urgency by the government to finalise an industrial agreement.
Customers have mixed feelings over BPL service
AMID frequent electricity disruptions, customers have mixed reviews about Bahamas Power and Light Company considering an increase to the fuel surcharge that will possibly translate to higher light bills.
Man shot dead in Carmichael Road area
Police are investigating after a man was shot dead on Tuesday night.
PM joins Rwanda meeting
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis at the opening session of the Commonwealth Business Forum yesterday.
‘Don’t derail tourism revival with higher electricity costs’
The Bahamian tourism industry yesterday warned it “can ill-afford to be derailed” from its post-COVID recovery by a hike in electricity prices which remain “pivotal” to the sector’s global competitiveness.
Crowdfunder aiming to be ‘next Bamboo Shack’
A Bahamian restaurant entrepreneur yesterday unveiled ambitions to become “the next Bamboo Shack” after raising almost one-third of his minimum $320,000 capital target within the first ten days.
Coca-Cola supplier just 6-8% behind pre-COVID
Caribbean Bottling’s president yesterday revealed it is just 6-8 percent behind pre-COVID business levels despite the cost of key raw materials surging by as much as 20-40 percent.
Gov’t won’t back MSC cruise port takeover
The deputy prime minister yesterday said the Government will not back the acquisition of a controlling ownership interest in the Nassau Cruise Port by a single or group of cruise lines.
Super Value to ‘duck’ energy hike via solar
Super Value’s president yesterday said it plans to “duck” any long-term impact from higher Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) prices through the installation of solar power across its business beginning on August 2.
Restaurant entrepreneur: Growth ‘blows our mind’
A New Providence restaurant entrepreneur yesterday said the company’s growth from a home-based business to an actual physical location despite the COVID-19 pandemic “blows our mind”.
Electricity cost rise ‘pretty dangerous’ for economy
Bahamian businesses yesterday warned any increase in electricity costs will be “pretty dangerous” for an economy still recovering from COVID-19’s devastation, although some said spiking global oil prices make such a hike “inevitable”.
Financial industry in more attrition
The Bahamian banking sector saw total on-balance sheet assets shrink by $23bn or 13.3 percent in 2021 as the industry faced regulatory and other “headwinds” that continued to chip away at its size.
‘Mangrove replant delay is madness’
AN outspoken environmentalist is furious over the protracted delay by a government agency to approve a licence to replant mangroves as part of a major restoration project on Grand Bahama.
Tests remain for unvaccinated
TOURISM, Investments and Aviation Minister Chester Cooper said that a change to the requirement for unvaccinated travellers to be tested for COVID-19 is not being considered at present.
Teenage girl dies in Abaco accident
A teen driver is dead following a traffic accident in Abaco earlier this week.
No ending in sight for gas price rises
ACTING Prime Minister Chester Cooper says it is anticipated that gasoline prices will continue to escalate “for the foreseeable future”.
‘WHY DIDN’T GOVT ACT ON BPL’S OIL?': Pintard demands why securing cheap supply was not carried out
OPPOSITION Leader Michael Pintard is “deeply concerned” that Bahamas Power and Light is considering a cost increase for consumers, insisting yesterday that at the heart of the issue is the manner in which the government has “mismanaged” the power provider to date.
Mychal ‘Sweet Bells’ Thompson reflects on son Klay’s NBA triumph
HAVING watched as his son surpassed his achievements before his injury two and-a-half years ago, Mychal ‘Sweet Bells’ Thompson was grateful to witness Klay Thompson’s return to the Golden State Warriors as they reeled off their fourth National Basketball Association championship title.
FIBA Centrobasket: Team Bahamas in win column
After improving in each of their first three games played, the Bahamas junior boys’ team finally got in the win column at the FIBA Under-15 Centrobasket Championships.
Duke of Edinburgh Cup set for this weekend at Atlantis
UNDER the patronage of Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas Cornelius and Lady Clara Smith, the Duke of Edinburgh Cup Tournament will be held this weekend at Atlantis on Paradise Island.
Bahamas Karate Championships all set for Saturday
THE Society of Shotokan Stylist presents the Bahamas Karate Championships, hosted by sensei Shawn Smith - a 4th degree black belt in Shotokan karate and black belt in Shito ryu Karate.
Citizenship change plan
Once again, the government through Attorney General Ryan Pinder has foreshadowed its plan to introduce legislation to bring about citizenship changes which the referendums of 2002 and 2016 did not. In my view, this is rather unfortunate.
Three accused over $70k GB cocaine find
THREE men were charged in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with a $70,000 cocaine raid in Grand Bahama last week.
Court hears that suspect ‘tried to kill two police officers and a woman’
A MAN was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services yesterday accused of attempting to murder two police officers and a woman.
Man accused of armed robbery
A MAN was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services by a Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of an armed robbery at Montagu Beach last week.
Two charged over firearms
TWO men were charged in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with separate firearm and ammunition charges.
Man accused of indecent assault on American teen
A MAN was granted bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday after he faced an allegation of indecently assaulting an American teenage girl.
Bahamas must share its climate science
The reason I am here as High Commissioner is because at the last Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, held in London in 2018, the then Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, was struck by how many member countries didn’t have a resident British office. This included The Bahamas. He was determined to correct this absence and ordered the reopening of the British High Commission Nassau. He believed passionately in “deepening relationships across the Commonwealth”.
Tuesday, June 21
PETER YOUNG: How is Britain controlled by European courts?
THE country of Rwanda, situated in the heart of the vast continent of Africa, has been the centre of attention in the British press this past week.
FACE TO FACE: A coronation in the homeland of Junkanoo
THE heart of a man who went on a quest to learn the origins of Junkanoo only to be crowned in the name of the king responsible for its origins, must be filled with unspeakable joy.
EDITORIAL: Groundhog Day again at BPL
REPORTING on Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) sometimes feels like being trapped in the movie Groundhog Day.
November prison death a ‘homicide’
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe says he has not yet seen an official report that focuses on the circumstances surrounding the death of prison inmate Mikhail Taylor last November.
‘No one allowed to own land that belongs to govt’
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe has defended the 14-day timeframe given to squatters to vacate Crown Land, saying no one will be allowed to own land that belongs to the government.
Junkanoo Summer Festival return
VISITORS to Arawak Cay on Saturdays can soon dance to the vibrant sound of Junkanoo with the return of Junkanoo Summer Festival.
Bahamasair: Extra $200k weekly fuel bill ‘won’t suffocate’ demand
Bahamasair’s top executive yesterday voiced optimism that a fuel bill which has skyrocketed by up to $200,000 per week “won’t suffocate” travel demand despite the airline readying “another small” fare increase.
Bahamas ‘telling the story’ to its investors
The Government is focused on “telling the story about The Bahamas” and its post-COVID recovery to ensure international investors and markets retain confidence in the country’s debt, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.
COVID testing end ‘game changer’ for key markets
High-spending tourism markets have hailed the elimination of COVID entry testing and the Health Travel Visa as a potential “game changer” for The Bahamas given the reduced “hassle” involved in accessing the country.
Ex-GBPA chair loses $82k claim strike out
A former Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) chairman’s bid to be removed as a defendant in an $82,300 claim brought by three ex-employees of his insolvent BISX-listed company has been rejected by the Supreme Court.
Sunset Pilot Club makes history in Grand Bahama
THE Sunset Pilot Club of Grand Bahama has made history as the first chartered co-ed Pilot Club on the island.
ORG officials attend Summit of the Americas
LOCAL officials of the Organisation for Responsible Governance have attended the IX Summit of the Americas.
Gov’t’s ‘Fintech festival’ aiming to attract 3,000
The Government is planning to stage an “international Fintech festival” that will attract 3,000 industry executives to The Bahamas early next year and further boost this country’s digital asset ambitions.
Business ‘blows up’ at Family Island resorts
The Bahamas Out Island Promotion Board’s (BOIPB) president yesterday said business for its member properties has been “blowing up” ahead of the traditional summer slowdown.
Compass Point restaurant to follow resort into closure
COMPASS Point’s restaurant will close at the end of July, its proprietor confirmed yesterday, following the previous shuttering of the resort.
Gov’t eyes double return on ‘harsh health realities’
The Government plans to solve “the harsh realities” of Family Island healthcare by doubling the number of new and renovated clinics that will be overhauled via $45.5m in development financing.
Ocean exploration boss - deal above board
A TREASURE hunter salvaging a wreck in The Bahamas yesterday branded National Security Minister Wayne Munroe’s recent comments as “inaccurate”, insisting that the process is “transparent”.
Clayton Fernander takes over as Police Commissioner on July 5
ROYAL Bahamas Police Force Commissioner Paul Rolle will retire effective July 5, 2022.
Union boss warns tough summer ahead
CONSUMERS should prepare for a “tough summer”, according to Bahamas Electrical Workers Union president Kyle Wilson, telling The Tribune yesterday “we are already having issues” in the first weeks of the hottest months of the year.
BPL EXAMINING PRICE INCREASE: CEO insists power will be kept on but bills may have to rise
AS many consumers yesterday grappled with hours-long power disruptions in the sweltering heat, Bahamas Power and Light CEO Shevonn Cambridge said an internal review is underway to determine whether there will be an increase to billing by way of a fuel charge adjustment.
Top squash players to hit the walls swinging
THIRTY local squash players are set to compete in the inaugural Four Walls Squash Open Championship tournament, starting Wednesday at Four Walls Squash and Social Club.
Equestrian Kacy Lyn Smith makes history
BECOMES THE FIRST BAHAMIAN JUNIOR RIDER TO QUALIFY FOR FEI NORTH AMERICAN YOUTH JUMPING CHAMPIONSHIPS
KACY Lyn Smith and her horse Chicago M rode a double clear round at Loudoun County, Virginia, this weekend and, in doing so, made history as the first Bahamian junior rider to qualify for the FEI North American Youth Jumping Championships.
Kai Jones returns home
KAI Jones returned home for the first time since he completed his rookie season in the NBA and already has his sights set on the offseason and improvement headed into year two.
Champions are crowned at the BLTA Junior Nationals
IT was a weekend of exciting and competitive tennis matches at The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) Junior Nationals.
Basketball Smiles is back
SAM Nichols and his cadre of American coaches from Basketball Smiles are back for its 23rd year, bringing a lot of smiles to the faces of Bahamian girls and boys basketball players during the camp that opened up yesterday at the HO Nash Junior High School.
Junior boys suffer third straight loss
FIBA UNDER-15 CENTROBASKET CHAMPIONSHIPS
THE Bahamas junior boys’ basketball team suffered their third straight loss at the FIBA Under- 15 CentroBasket Championships in Puerto Rico.
Swimmers make a splash at FINA Worlds
Competition got underway for Bahamas Aquatics’ four-member team at the FINA World Aquatics Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
$200 fine over Indian hemp find
A MAN was fined $200 in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday for possession of dangerous drugs.
Man accused of attempted murder
A MAN was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services by a Magistrate’s Court yesterday on a charge of attempted murder.
Jailed for receiving stolen aerosols
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison yesterday for receiving $47.36 worth of aerosols over the Father’s Day Weekend.
Four face court over robbery and firearm
FOUR young men were in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday faced with various charges, including two counts of armed robbery and possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Three arrested after $70,000 cocaine find
TWO Abaco men and one Grand Bahama man were arrested in connection with the discovery and seizure of $70,000 worth of cocaine, in addition to firearms and ammunition.
Fatherhood: Meaning of life
I treated lightly sacred things, and went my way in search of fun.
We must support the police
It is hoped that the contents of this letter will encourage action from residents and increase support for the police.
Man dies after shooting
POLICE in New Providence are investigating the shooting death of a man on Sunday.
Monday, June 20
WORLD VIEW: Summit of the Americas was worth attending
AS beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, so is success or failure measured by the beneficiary or the overlooked. Summits of the Americas, from the time they were initiated by the administration of the US in 1994, have overlooked the Caribbean.
INSIGHT: Gibson’s parliamentary future isn’t as cut and dried as some would have it
WITH a series of charges filed against Adrian Gibson, the question of whether he should remain as an MP has been in the air.
THE KDK REPORT: A shallow grave
UNDER the cover of darkness, Anastasia and her family fled the bombing and gunfire now ravaging their homeland. No one in the car that evening could understand how they arrived at this point.
INSIGHT: Cut crime by helping the children scarred by violence
WHEN a murder happens in a community, first responders race to the scene for two reasons – emergency medical personnel handle the victim while the police hunt down the perpetrator.
Team being set up to deal with gender-based violence
A TEAM is being established to deal with issues related to gender-based violence, Press Secretary Clint Watson announced on Friday.
EDITORIAL: Which is harder to find - gold or good governance?
WHEN The Tribune reported last year about an underwater exploration group having detected 13 shipwrecks in Bahamian waters, it was described as a “billion dollar” opportunity.
$1.6m contract signed for morgue upgrades
THE Public Hospitals Authority has signed a contract for approximately $1.6 million with Pinnacle Investment Company Limited for the renovation and upgrades of the morgue at Grand Bahama's Rand Memorial Hospital.
PM: Land issues hold up plan for new GB hospital
PRINE Minister Philip 'Brave' Davis says his plans for breaking ground for a new, state-of-the-art hospital in Grand Bahama by the end of this fiscal period were hampered because of land issues.
Senior immigration officer dies
KIRKLYN Neely, acting assistant director of the Department of Immigration, died on Friday.
‘Stagnant’: Fears for auto sales until 2023
Auto dealers fear new car sales will be “stagnant” for at least another year with global supply chain disruption causing order backlogs of up to 200 vehicles for some operators.
Marinas seek charter clarity amid fear of 20% increase
Bahamian marinas are seeking clarity on whether the 10 percent VAT on foreign yacht charter contracts will be levied on pre-existing deals come July 1 amid fears this will be “a tough pill to swallow”.
COVID rebound uneven for Family Island resorts
Family Island resorts have recovered to 80 percent of pre-COVID business volumes, a senior tourism official has revealed, but the rebound remains uneven because of airlift woes impacting some locations.
Bust or deflated
ActivTrades
ACCORDING to experts, the cryptocurrency Bitcoin is entering its lowest and darkest market phase. The price of Bitcoin fell to its lowest level since December 2020 on Wednesday, and even hit $20,000 for a short time. The oldest digital currency was trading at around $20,500 on Friday, June 17.
Ghanaian trip for Anne-Marie Davis
ANNE-Marie Davis, the Prime Minister’s wife, and an entourage of Bahamian officials are expected to attend a ceremony on Saturday for their son, Christopher, who is being raised to a chief in the Ahanta West traditional area in The Bahamas and wider Caribbean.
Service honours Sir Sidney Poitier
A STATE-RECOGNISED Service of Thanksgiving in honour of the late Sir Sidney Poitier, KBE, was held on Father’s Day.
73 Cuban migrants repatriated
SEVENTY-three Cubans were repatriated last week.
Police investigate Eleuthera shooting
POLICE in the settlement of Palmetto Point, Eleuthera are investigating the shooting death of a man on Friday.
Body found in GB waterway
GRAND Bahama Police are investigating a suspicious death in connection with the discovery of a body at the Grand Cay waterway.
Suspected drowning probed
POLICE are investigating an apparent drowning over the weekend off Arawak Cay.
Vacation homes, retail driving Andros growth
The Andros Chamber of Commerce president says the island experienced “significant growth” in 2021 with vacation homes and the retail sector leading the way.
Over $1.2m provided to Andros farmers, fishing
The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) says it has facilitated some $1.216m in financing for 57 farming and fishing entrepreneurs in Andros.
DEREK SMITH: ‘Box checking’ no security guarantee
A new era of technology-based businesses has begun. Technology is used for every aspect of business, from accepting client instructions electronically to processing credit cards, accepting wire transfers and storing employee and customer information. Simply put: Any business requirement can be met with technology.
‘Options limited’ over relief for gas dealers
The Ministry of Finance’s top official yesterday said the Government’s “options are limited” in providing the relief sought by petroleum retailers struggling with gross margins of 10 percent or less.
‘You’ve 14 days to vacate land’
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe announced a crackdown on people who break laws governing the use of Crown land, warning that they had 14 days to cease their illegal activities.
Clarity needed on Embassy spending
THE official opposition wants to see a full report detailing money spent on furniture and decor at an ambassador’s residence in Belgium.
WHAT’S THE REAL DEAL ON SUNKEN TREASURE? Munroe says licence issued to exploration firm ‘unsatisfactory’
National Security Minister Wayne Munroe said the royalties the government has received to date from treasure hunters salvaging wreckages in Bahamian waters have been “unsatisfactory”.
87 new cases of COVID
EIGHTY-seven new cases of COVID-19 were recorded last Thursday and Friday, according to the Ministry of Health and Wellness.
Nassau does not need local govt
The Progressive Liberal Party government's plan to introduce local government in Nassau will add another unnecessary layer of bureaucracy in the capital, which is where the central government is headquartered. The prime minister resides in Nassau. In fact, every prime minister dating back to Sir Roland Symonette lived in Nassau. To the best of my knowledge, each of Nassau's 24 MPs resides in New Providence, where the House of Assembly and the Senate are located.
Governing for benefit of Bahamians
There are encouraging signs that the present PLP government will go further than Mr Christie’s in reversing the ingrained national inferiority complex that has done this country such harm in terms of policy since 1992.
Don’t pander to church - protect women instead
What does the Church have to do with whether a woman feels like having sex with her husband? Who are they to decide what a woman does with her body?
35 years of sorority in Grand Bahama
THE Pi Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, has celebrated 35 years of sisterhood, scholarship, and service on Grand Bahama.
FIFA U-15 CentroBasket: Two defeats for Bahamas
THE Bahamas’ team at the FIFA Under-15 CentroBasket Championships got a rude awakening in the first two games they played over the weekend at the Fernando ‘Rube’ Hernandez Coliseo in Gurabo, Puerto Rico.
Freedom Farm dominates Andre Rodgers Nationals
THE Bahamas Baseball Association returned to play in its marquee event for local youth baseball, the Andre Rodgers National Championships.
Bahamas Bowl gets a new sponsor
HomeTown Lenders Bahamas Bowl is all set for the eighth edition of the biggest and longest running collegiate football season ending championship bowl game to take place at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium on Friday, December 16.
UPDATED: Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner win 400m races in Paris
Devynne Charlton second in 100m hurdles
COMPETING in the same meet for the first time this year, Bahamian Olympic champions Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner surged to impressive victories in the 400 metres on Saturday at the Wanda Diamond League Meet in Paris, France.
Saturday, June 18
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 18th June: Nassau
STARTS: 06/18/2022 3:30 PM EDT EXPIRES: 06/18/2022 4:15 PM EDT
Friday, June 17
Lincoln Bain faces off with officials over Crown land issues
FARMERS occupying Crown land in the Carmichael Road area raised issues with Friday’s police ride-along in their community and what they claim is wilful government neglect of deforestation there.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Why do we feel so unsettled? Is it because we’re in the Age of Confusion?
I wasn’t around and probably you weren’t either, but after the upheaval of WWII, history seems to show us the relieved and exhausted world settled down to a new predictability.
$3m goal for Urban Renewal Foundation
THE Urban Renewal Foundation will be relaunched with the goal of raising at least $3m to assist with community projects.
‘No break’: Property cover to stick near all-time high
A Bahamian insurer yesterday warned “there’s just no scope for a break” on property insurance prices that are “pretty close” to all-time highs following double-digit percentage increases last year.
Bahamas must get youth for ‘leg up’ on Caribbean
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to start a youth movement so it can grow - for “generations to come” - a flats fishing industry likely to have expanded far beyond its $141m economic impact in 2010.
Airlift ‘bane of everyone’s life’
Andros has exceeded last year’s total stopover visitors by 66.5 percent in just the first four months of 2022, it was revealed yesterday, despite airlift woes being “the bane of everybody’s life”.
FNM ‘will be fine’ despite Gibson case
OFFICIAL Opposition leader Michael Pintard says his party will “be fine” in the aftermath of a Free National Movement MP being arraigned in court earlier this week.
Davis says Budget is a foundation for change
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis yesterday defended his administration’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year against the Official Opposition’s criticisms as he wrapped up debate at Parliament on his party’s first fiscal plan since it took office.
Tributes paid to Dr Eugene Newry
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday led dignitaries, senior law enforcement officials and the clergy in paying respects to former diplomat and neurosurgeon Dr Eugene Newry at Bethel Brothers where his remains were in repose.
‘Train’s left station’: MSC eyes cruise port’s owner
Nassau Cruise Port’s $300m transformation will not be disrupted by a shipping giant’s interest in acquiring its controlling shareholder, its chief executive asserted yesterday, adding: “That train left the station a long time ago.”
Davis claims jobless rate now below 20%
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said yesterday the country’s unemployment rate is now below 20 percent, a major decrease from that of the pandemic, which he estimated at around 45 per cent.
Gangland wars and taking it to courts
ACTING Commissioner Clayton Fernander says officials are working to build strong cases to present to the courts to successfully try crimes committed by gang members.
TARGET TIMING OF RAPE IN MARRIAGE: Churches agree step to protect separating couples is necessary
BAHAMAS Christian Council president Bishop Delton Fernander says the church will support efforts by government to tighten the law to provide protection against rape for spouses in the period between legal separation and divorce.
Jonquel Jones and Sun on a roll, win five of six games
JONQUEL Jones and the Connecticut Sun posted their highest scoring output of the season and won their fifth game in their last six outings.
Urgent cleaning of Goodman’s Beach
I urgently need help to address the cleaning of Goodman’s Bay Beach in Nassau.
I-Elite gets international support
SINCE their formation out of the Max D Baseball Academy in 2017, the International Elite Baseball Academy has been growing by leaps and bounds as they continue to provide opportunities for many young men to experience their dream of playing college or professional baseball.
Bahamas Bassai Karate-Dojo to host its first championship on June 25 at Anatol Rodgers
THE Bahamas Bassai Karate-Dojo (BBKD) is scheduled to host its first Bahamas Karate Championship at 10am on Saturday, June 25 at the Anatol Rodgers High School Gymnasium.
Tarajh Hudson named Freshman of the Year
TARAJH Hudson capped off his season at Northwestern State University after advancing to the NCAA East Prelims in the discus by being named the Freshman of the Year for the Southland Conference.
McPhee-McCuin lands star-studded recruiting class for Ole Miss
ON the heels of a record-setting season and a new contract extension, Yolett McPhee-McCuin has landed another star-studded recruiting class for her Ole Miss Rebels women’s basketball programme.
‘Drips’ Poitier gets new coaching job
AFTER a brief hiatus to coach at the high school and club level while improving on his golf game, former Bahamian national coach Edrick ‘Drips’ Poitier has returned to coaching at the collegiate level.
Moss and Bannister team up again in ACL
FOR the second time in their young minor league careers, Texas Rangers prospects Zion Bannister and Keithron Moss are taking the field together with the same club.
Warriors are NBA champions
BOSTON (AP) — The Golden State Warriors are NBA champions once again, topping the Boston Celtics 103-90 last night for their fourth title in the last eight seasons.
Six months in jail for indecent assault
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison by a Magistrate’s Court yesterday for the indecent assault of a woman last year.
Pair face drug charges
TWO MEN were charged in Magistrate’s Court yesterday with drug and money laundering offences.
Accused says he was victim of abuse by police officers
A MAN claiming to be a victim of police abuse was granted bail in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest.
Two accused of attempt to kill man and woman
TWO men were remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday on a shared charge of two counts of attempted murder of a man and woman.
Freeport church holds events to honour 60th anniversary
CHRIST the King - the oldest church in Freeport - is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a number of fundraising events that will benefit their social outreach ministry on Grand Bahama.
‘Davis must not compete with Mottley’
In May, Office of the Prime Minister Press Secretary Clint Watson said that Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis is in high demand globally due to his no-nonsense stance on climate change. Watson’s response was due to the Progressive Liberal Party government coming under scrutiny for its frequent travelling abroad.
Thursday, June 16
Heart disease top cause of death in nation
ISCHEMIC heart disease is the number one cause of death in the country, according to Health Minister Dr Michael Darville.
STATESIDE: Centre stage or a sideshow which is going to change nothing?
WERE you watching last week when the US House of Representatives January 6 select committee held the first of its several planned TV expositions of what they have found in the 18 months since a mob attacked the US capitol building and threatened to overrun the US Congress?
FRONT PORCH: Talks and photo ops - but is it really taking us where we need to go?
MANY international summits, some more than others, are talkfests, mostly occasions for high-blown rhetoric and photo-ops, though substantive speeches, statements and diplomacy are often critical, including for domestic audiences.
EDITORIAL: Tough call - but will it be the right one?
IT has been expected – but the step to remove the travel health visa was taken yesterday, with it no longer being a requirement for travel from Sunday.
500 new healthcare hires
NEARLY 500 allied healthcare professionals will be hired by the government in an effort to shore up manpower resources, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said in the House of Assembly yesterday.
Minnis: Gibson is innocent until proven otherwise
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday “a man is innocent until proven otherwise” as many in the country wait to learn what will be the next political steps of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson.
Pintard sees ‘arrogance’ growing in government
Opposition leader Michael Pintard yesterday described the Davis administration as one that does not comply with laws and suggested that he was beginning to see seeds of “arrogance” grow in the new day government.
24,000 doses of child vaccine received through COVAX plan
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville yesterday revealed that the government has secured more than 24,000 paediatric doses of COVID-19 vaccines through the COVAX facility.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 16th June: Freeport
STARTS: 06/16/2022 1:10 PM EDT EXPIRES: 06/16/2022 2:15 PM EDT
‘Christmas comes early’ for tourism with COVID easing
Tourism operators yesterday said “Christmas has come early” after the Government announced the elimination of COVID entry testing for vaccinated visitors and the Health Travel Visa with effect from this Sunday.
‘We won’t give shop away for porridge’
The deputy prime minister yesterday pledged that the Davis administration will “not give the shop away to investors for a bowl of porridge” as he revealed it is presently reviewing the tax breaks granted to them.
Insurers seek ‘urgent’ PM meeting on VAT reforms
Bahamian insurers are seeking “an urgent meeting” with the Prime Minister before the week ends over VAT-related reforms that will potentially increase medical bills and treatment costs for thousands of Bahamians.
DPM aims to ‘double’ stopovers in 3 years
The Bahamas is aiming to “double” stopover visitor numbers within the next three years as it bids to reverse its “shrinking” share of the Caribbean visitor market, the deputy prime minister revealed yesterday.
$80k a year to prevent Freeport drainage flooding
GRAND Bahama Port Authority is investing $80,000 annually to ensure Freeport’s drainage system is “storm ready” to prevent flooding.
Tax hike measures branded ‘inevitable’
New and/or increased taxes are “inevitable somewhere down the road” as greater enforcement and collection efforts will be insufficient to meet The Bahamas’ revenue needs, an investment banker warned yesterday.
‘Embassy’s spending followed protocol’
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and former Foreign Affairs Minister Darren Henfield were at odds yesterday over spending that took place under their administration to furnish and decorate an ambassador’s residence in Brussels, Belgium.
'Credible' investors interested in redevelopment of Grand Bahama International Airport
THREE “credible” investors have expressed interest in the redevelopment of the Grand Bahama International Airport, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper revealed yesterday.
ALL OVER FOR HEALTH VISA – and no tests if you’ve had COVID jabs
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville announced yesterday the government will remove its COVID-19 testing requirement for vaccinated people entering The Bahamas beginning Sunday.
Bahamas Basketball Federation names its coaching staffs
THE Bahamas Basketball Federation announces its 2022 junior boys’ and junior girls’ coaching staffs.
Self-inspection key to controlling risks
TODAY’S ever-changing business environment requires companies to implement a culture of dynamic risk management through effective internal controls to ensure their objectives are achieved.
$5bn investment approvals target
The Government is aiming to approve $5bn in investments by year-end, the deputy prime minister said yesterday, with half that sum having already been given the go-ahead.
Pintard challenges Gov’t over BPL’s fuel hedging
The Opposition’s leader yesterday challenged the Prime Minister and his administration to clarify whether Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) fuel hedging initiative will be renewed given that the present structure is set to expire at month’s end.
Minister’s brother fined
A MAN was fined in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday on multiple charges, including disorderly behaviour and assaulting a female police officer.
Electric cars
EV’s or in simple language ‘electric vehicles.’
A journey to be able to tell a story
Thank you for allowing me such a limited space in your daily life to express a concern for the citizens of our beloved Bahamas.
Health visas
When is the Bahamas Government going to face reality and abolish the Health Visa and the three-day old rapid antigen test? They are both now completely a roadblock to secure bookings to your country. For those of us in England the test and three-day arrival is unworkable for most people.
Officer testifies in assault case
AN OFFICER gave testimony in a Magistrate’s Court in a man’s ongoing trial where he faces accusations of assaulting a police officer last Christmas.
Shop-breaker is jailed
A MAN was sentenced to one year at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services yesterday for shop-breaking.
Discharge in drugs case
A Magistrate’s Court yesterday placed a man, accused of drugs, on conditional discharge.
Harm and threats focus of cases
TWO MEN were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday on separate charges of causing harm and threats of harm.
Lion King show this weekend
BAHAMIAN choreographer Georgia Storr-Taylor has taken her live theatre productions to the next level with multi-media projection screen backdrops, sounds, and a live choir to enhance the audience’s experience.
Chisholm Jr solidifies his case for National League All-Star bid
Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr’s power-hitting display ranks among the top at his position in all of Major League Baseball and continues to solidify his case for a National League All-Star bid.
BJ Murray assigned to the Chicago Cubs’ high-a affiliate
BJ Murray Jr continues his progression in the Chicago Cubs organisation.
Colts’ Mike Strachan looks ahead to second season
HEADED into his second season with the Indianapolis Colts, Mike Strachan said his mindset is to continue his progression up the organisation’s depth chart.
Corporate sponsors step up to support BAAA Nationals
CORPORATE citizens have stepped forward to support the BAAAs and its athletes as they prepare for the landmark event on the local track and field calendar.
BLTA names three teams for international tennis competition
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) has named three teams for international tennis competition this month.
Barraterre celebrates 37th annual regatta & homecoming festival
AFTER a two-year hiatus because of the COVID- 19 pandemic, thousands returned to the beautiful shores of Exuma over the Labour Day weekend to experience the camaraderie and excitement of the long-awaited Barraterre regatta and homecoming festival, which ran from June 3-6.
Wednesday, June 15
06152022 EDITION
Wednesday, 15th June, 2022.
ALICIA WALLACE: Lizzo’s handling of her mistake is an example to learn from
One of the most interesting artists of this generation is Lizzo. Some fans were enjoying her music on YouTube long before she made it big.
Plans for new town centre for Marsh Harbour unveiled
TRANSPORT and Housing Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis yesterday unveiled plans for the development of a new town centre for Marsh Harbour, Abaco which she said will assist with the island’s economic growth following Hurricane Dorian’s devastation in 2019.
PM: I told US Caribbean nations feel neglected
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis says he has told the United States that Caribbean countries in the Americas have felt neglected by the US, compounded by a view that “we are only known when we’re needed”.
Davis negative for COVID after Trudeau contact
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis tested negative for COVID-19 yesterday after he came into contact with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who recently tested positive for the virus.
13 Cubans detained in Grand Bahama
THIRTEEN Cuban migrants were brought to Grand Bahama on Monday after they were intercepted in Bahamian waters by US Coast Guard officials.
Long Island MP released on bail
LONG Island MP Adrian Gibson was released on bail yesterday 24 hours after he faced corruption charges for allegedly abusing his power as executive chairman of the Water and Sewerage Corporation.
Moultrie raises issue of Gibson staying MP
FORMER House Speaker Halson Moultrie suggested yesterday “any honourable” parliamentarian accused of criminal offences should consider resigning to protect the institution of Parliament.
PM tours Aqualina site in Cable Beach
PRIME Minister Philip Davis and members of Cabinet toured the construction site of Aqualina on Cable Beach yesterday to view the progress of the 11-storey skyrise.
‘Put money with mouth’ to escape IMF clutches
The Bahamas must “put our money where our mouth is” and prove to global investors why it will not require an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme to escape its economic and fiscal woes, a top banker said yesterday.
Arrested cruise ships fetch $128m in sale
Two cruise ships that have been under arrest in Bahamian waters for more than four months were yesterday sold for a combined $128m via auction, Tribune Business was told.
Opposition: ‘Shore up’ investors’ confidence
The Bahamas is “not doing anything to shore up” the confidence of investors who are “rightly concerned” about the country’s economic and fiscal prospects, the Opposition’s finance spokesman asserted yesterday.
Brewery succeeds in $1.2m tax challenge
Commonwealth Brewery has revealed it successfully challenged a $1.156m tax demand by the Government and is now awaiting its response to the arbitration ruling.
Scholarships for quartet at Grand Bahama College
Bahama Blue Realty and Terreve College has partnered to present scholarships to four students to pursue tertiary studies at the college in Grand Bahama.
Munroe: Always concern over deaths while on bail
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Monroe says there is always concern when people on bail are victims of murder.
Darville: We’re seeking to deal with nurses’ grievance
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said a negotiation team has been given the mandate to bring resolution to the Bahamas Nurses Union’s grievances as soon as possible.
Bahamas fights child labour
LABOUR and Immigration Minister Keith Bell joined the International Labour Organisation in the observance of World Day Against Child Labour on Sunday at the ILO’s Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Disabled crane operators lose Weather Dept tornado claims
Three former Freeport Container Port operators have lost their bid to claim damages from the Government over disabilities and “extensive psychological trauma” resulting from the March 2010 tornado that devastated the firm’s operation.
‘No public criticism from me’
DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper says he won’t publicly attack public servants following House Speaker Patricia Deveaux’s rebuke of National Emergency Management Agency director Captain Stephen Russell in Parliament last week.
Dome families exit deadline
PEOPLE living in emergency dome houses at Abaco will soon be given a deadline to leave the temporary structures, Transport and Housing Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis announced yesterday.
$1M EMBASSY MAKEOVER BILL: Minister hits out at Minnis administration over spending on ambassador’s apartment in Europe
LABOUR and Immigration Minister Keith Bell yesterday accused the Minnis administration of the “indiscriminate callous haemorrhage” of the public purse to buy extravagant furnishings and decor for an ambassador’s apartment in Europe.
Gov’t invests $1.5m in housing infrastructure
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the Government is spending $1.5m on infrastructure for its low-cost housing subdivisions during the upcoming 2022-2023 fiscal year.
Speaker’s rebuke of Russell
It is always a joy and a privilege to pen a set of impressions on matters of a national charge – and for the greater-good-betterment of a people seeking to have the shortcomings adjustments where necessary – and never to belittle anyone, group or groups of people, party/organisations. For it is my belief that there is no place or time left to point the finger...for it accomplishes little.
Gibson tried in court of public opinion
FREE National Movement (FNM) Leader Michael Pintard’s press release regarding the legal situation of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson was well within reason, considering the difficult circumstances his party finds itself in.
37-year-old accused of unlawful sex with girl
A MAN was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services yesterday after he was accused of unlawful sexual intercourse with a ten-year-old girl.
Two accused after discovery of Indian hemp
TWO men were arraigned separately in different Magistrate’s Courts yesterday on drug charges.
Jacobi Bain earns Rookie of the Year
Jacobi Bain completed his freshman season with the Gold Rush men’s tennis team at Xavier University of Louisiana as the ITA NAIA South Region Rookie of the Year.
Junior Baseball Nationals to christen Baillou Hills complex this weekend
THE Bahamas Baseball Association is expected to christen the refurbished Balliou Hills Sporting Complex this weekend with the return of the Junior National Baseball Championships.
Leevan Sands on NCAA Outdoors: ‘It was our best showing since 2012’
WHILE he basked in the success of the Florida State Seminoles men’s track and field team, Olympic bronze medallist Leevan “Superman” Sands was just as in awe from what he saw from the Bahamian athletes competing at the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s National Outdoor Championships.
Tuesday, June 14
PETER YOUNG: Like a cat with nine lives Boris survives again – but the road ahead looks bumpy
AFTER all the superlatives about The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee last week and the lifting of people’s spirits throughout the country, the politicians and the trade unionists in Britain have managed to bring the nation back to earth with a bump.
FACE TO FACE: A couple who shared their life building a family and the nation
IT is always extraordinary when you come across entire families that have a legacy of nation building. When matriarchs and patriarchs put service above self, they leave indelible marks - not only on their families - but on their country. In this case, I share the heritage of the Coakley family as they say goodbye to their matriarch, Marietta Margaret Coakley.
17 armed robberies in the past week
OVER the past week, a total of 17 armed robberies were recorded, according to Police Commissioner Paul Rolle yesterday.
Sex offender’s death ‘not classed as murder’
THE death of a recently released sex offender has not been classified as a murder, Police Commissioner Paul Rolle said yesterday.
Rolle: Officers have to take responsibility
POLICE Commissioner Paul Rolle says officers have to take “personal responsibility for their integrity” in the aftermath of a police officer facing the courts on drug related charges.
EDITORIAL: Snub the rumours, and let courts do their work
THE accusations surrounding Adrian Gibson MP have landed in a courtroom.
Two new schools for San Salvador and Exuma
THE government will build two new schools on the Family Islands at a cost of $16m each, Education Minister Glenys Hanna Martin announced in the House of Assembly yesterday.
Digital court recording system in Grand Bahama
A new digital court recording system has been installed and is now operational in both the Supreme and Magistrate Courts in Grand Bahama.
FNM ‘in solidarity’ with Long Island MP
THE Free National Movement stands in solidarity with Long Island MP Adrian Gibson, party leader Michael Pintard said yesterday, adding the organisation was of the view that the parliamentarian was innocent until proven guilty.
AF Adderley shooting victim was on bail
THE man shot and killed on Sunday outside of AF Adderley’s gymnasium was on bail and being electronically monitored, according to Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle yesterday.
‘Take bull by the horns’: $100m for agriculture
The Government is being urged to “take the bull by the horns” and facilitate the $100m investment required to revive a Bahamian agricultural sector that is “40 years behind” where this country requires it to be.
Airlines battle competing forces on price increases
Bahamian airlines have had to increase ticket prices by between 5-5.5 percent to offset soaring fuel costs as they battle to survive continuing COVID-19 and inflation-related challenges.
Grand Bahama to be ‘grand again’
A Freeport realtor yesterday affirmed transactions “are way up” due to revived buyer interest stemming from recent multi-million dollar investment project announcements, adding: “Grand Bahama is going to be grand again.”
COVID entry testing to end ‘even if not correct’
COVID “fatigue” and economic pressures will likely see The Bahamas follow the US lead and eliminate entry testing “even if it is not the right thing to do”, a prominent doctor conceded yesterday.
Former cruise destination chief loses $335k claim
An ex-Atlantis executive has lost his $335,000 constructive dismissal claim against a cruise tourism destination because its failure to pay his due salary was not the primary reason he resigned.
$50,000 donation to help farming schools throughout nation
THE Agricultural Development Organization (ADO) has announced a $50,000 donation in supplies to boost farming at government schools throughout The Bahamas.
One year on and Exuma Markets celebrates
EXUMA Markets has celebrated its first year anniversary and official grand opening.
Blaze rips through Grand Bahama junkyard
A massive blaze broke out at a car junkyard yesterday in the commercial industrial area of Queen’s Highway, Freeport.
School stay away as thousands drop out
EDUCATION Minister Glenys Hanna Martin says thousands of students have still not returned to campuses since schools were reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Junkanoo return is on the cards
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg said he expects that Junkanoo parades will not only be held in New Providence this year, but in Grand Bahama and the Family Islands after a two-year hiatus of the cultural event.
CONCACAF Nations League: Senior men’s national soccer team loses 3rd straight match
THE Bahamas senior men’s national soccer team lost its third consecutive match in CONCACAF Nation’s League play.
28-member team named to represent Bahamas at Commonwealth Games
AHEAD of the national championships for track and field and swimming, the Bahamas Olympic Committee has announced a 28-member team of athletes and seven coaches to represent the Bahamas at the Commonwealth Games.
Travis Munnings and club win LPB title in Portugal
TRAVIS Munnings and Sporting Lisboa Benfica completed a dominant season in Portugal’s Liga Portuguesa de Basquetbol (LPB) with the 2022 championship title.
Olympic solidarity scholarship: 7 athletes to get $1,000 each a month
THE Bahamas Olympic Committee has gotten the approval for seven Bahamian athletes to receive a monthly stipend of $1,000 each from the Olympic Solidarity Scholarship heading into the 2024 Olympic Games.
9-member team for inaugural Caribbean Games
THE Bahamas will have a nine-member team among the 800 under-23 athletes from 29 countries competing at the historic inaugural Caribbean Games in Guadeloupe from June 29 to July 3.
Minister Bowleg produces comprehensive programme
With a 25 percent increase that pushes their budget allocation to little over $5.8 million, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg produced a comprehensive programme.
Special Olympics: Athletes bring home medals
TEAM Bahamas returned home after competing in the Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Florida.
Long Island Regatta returns with major Sands sponsorship
REGATTAS are back! One of the country’s major cultural expressions has returned in full force and the Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company Ltd. (BBB) is proud to be back in support.
Ex-finance minister: No fear on $2.3bn roll over
A former minister of state for finance yesterday said he expects the near-$2.3bn in Bahamian dollar debt, which is due for repayment over the next 18 months, to be rolled over without any alarm.
Agriculture’s $3M Israeli move targets poultry output doubling
A Cabinet minister yesterday hailed a $3m partnership with an Israeli company as a “red letter day” in The Bahamas drive for greater food security following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gov’t to double uniform support
A Cabinet minister yesterday said school uniform assistance provided to vulnerable Bahamian families will increase by 100 percent in the upcoming 2022-2023 Budget year.
Veteran policeman and two Colombians accused over drugs
A VETERAN police officer - who has now been relieved of his duties - and two Colombian men were arraigned in Magistrates Court yesterday accused of importing 181 pounds of cocaine and 31 pounds of indian hemp into Acklins last week.
Falling into the sewer
In my youth and middle years, The Bahamas was a wonderful place to live. Unfortunately, in my senior years I am constantly reflecting on the words of Shakespeare’s beleaguered protagonist, Macbeth, when he said “our way of life has fallen into the sewer”.
No evidence for electric car claim
We write in reference to a letter published on Friday. June 10th, in which Mr Kevin Evans opines that Electric Vehicles are unsafe in wet conditions.
Leaders need to act over flooding
What has happened over the last few weeks should now more than ever be a wake up call for our country’s parliamentary leaders.
Man accused of harming two victims
A MAN was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services yesterday accused of causing harm to two men and assaulting one of them with a handgun.
Monday, June 13
Long Island MP Adrian Gibson, six others, charged
SITTING Member of Parliament for Long Island Adrian Gibson and six others were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court Monday on corruption charges in connection with his tenure as executive chairman of the Water and Sewerage Corporation under the Minnis administration.
INSIGHT: Blue Holes reveal today’s hurricane activity is nothing compared with the past
HURRICANES and Blue Holes? You may be wondering about the connection. Well, The Bahamas has the greatest concentration of blue holes in the world with “valuable long-term record” of the Atlantic hurricane activity dating back over five centuries.
THE KDK REPORT: The North Star
GROWING up and living on a remote family island offers a wealth of peace and tranquility few outsiders can comprehend. With a small population, everyone on the island is either a family member or neighbour and there’s a genuine sense of community throughout the entire land.
INSIGHT: Out of order, Madam Speaker
THE Speaker of the House took centre stage last week – and not in a good way.
EDITORIAL: Thin margins as high prices drive people to cut back
WE do not need to tell you that the price of gas has been going up, and up – and up.
Fuel operators: We might have to shut down
FUEL operators yesterday warned gas stations may have to shut down if prices do not stabilise soon, insisting they cannot wait months for this crisis to be resolved.
Doctors: $50m COVID test boost set for ease
Doctors Hospital yesterday confirmed it will adjust its COVID testing workforce to “match” the anticipated demand fall-off after generating “north of $50m” in revenues from 1.3m such screenings over the past two years.
COVID entry testing end ‘back on table’
A Cabinet minister yesterday said eliminating The Bahamas’ COVID entry testing requirements will “come back on the table” for discussion this week in the wake of the US decision to eliminate such a mandate.
Subsidies jump despite $31.5m Bahamasair fall
Subsidies to loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) increased by more than $25m during the nine months to end-March 2022 despite an even greater drop in taxpayer support for Bahamasair.
Poitier named to Foreign Affairs post
THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs yesterday announced the appointment of Eugene Poitier as its new permanent secretary.
Munroe: We are on cusp of transformation
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe says The Bahamas stands on the cusp of transformational change and will be depending on young Bahamians to take the country to the next level.
Suspected monkeypox patient airlifted out of country
A FOREIGNER who was being monitored for suspected monkeypox was airlifted out of the country last week, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville confirmed yesterday.
114 new COVID cases
THERE were 114 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the country on Friday and Saturday.
Taxi drivers to push for 25% fare raise
The Bahamas Taxi Cab Union’s (BTCU) president says it is seeking a 25 percent fare hike to ease the burden of higher gas prices and soaring inflation.
Choppy waters
ActivTrades
Downtown Nassau and its cruise port have seen some signs of life during recent months. The berths are full, and the tourists were roaming the streets and supporting the local economy once more.
Over 35% of Gov’t local debt comes due in year
More than one-third of the Government’s domestic debt holdings, equivalent to around $2.3bn, is due to mature within the next year as it moves to eliminate “spikes” in principal redemption that place undue strain on its finances.
US ends requirement to test before entry
THE United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has announced passengers entering the country no longer need to get tested or show documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in order to enter the US.
Gas price crisis wiping out retailers’ profits
Bahamian gas stations say “no business operates” on the unsustainable seven percent gross margins they are enduring amid warnings the sector may have to cut jobs and operating hours to survive.
Bahamas ‘stands out like sore thumb’ over COVID entry testing
Tourism executives are warning The Bahamas “stands out like a sore thumb” over its continued COVID entry testing measures after the US eliminated such restrictions with effect from midnight yesterday.
Killings prompt plea to families
THREE murders occurred within 24 hours in New Providence this weekend, the latest of them a man who was killed after a basketball game at AF Adderley Junior High School yesterday - prompting a call for people who know relatives possess illegal firearms to “do the honourable thing”.
I’VE NOTHING TO APOLOGISE FOR: Speaker insists she stands by criticism of NEMA’s director
HOUSE Speaker Patricia Deveaux yesterday maintained she sees nothing wrong with her criticism levelled at National Emergency Management Agency director Captain Stephen Russell and sees no need to apologise.
Chisholm Jr responds to criticism
JASRADO “Jazz” Chisholm Jr was reportedly the subject of criticism from fellow Miami Marlins teammates in a players only meeting, but the much maligned star second baseman responded on the field with the most productive stretch of his MLB career.
Men’s national soccer team suffers heartbreaking loss
The men’s national soccer team suffered another heartbreaking loss, this time 2-0 to Nicaragua on Friday before the home crowd at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
Bahamian athletes shine at the NCAA Outdoors
THE National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) 2022 Outdoor Championships concluded on Saturday at the Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon with just one Bahamian competing in a final event.
Speaker’s comments were wrong
I would appreciate the publication of this open letter in The Tribune addressed to House Speaker Patricia Deveaux for her criticism of Public Officer Mr. Stephen Russell, Director of The Bahamas National Emergency Agency, for his handling of the recent tornado that hit our island.
Young Bahamian scientists are losing their jobs
Because of a knee jerk, silly law passed by the former FNM government, our brightest young scientists are finding themselves out of work and at risk of permanent serious damage to their careers.
Mako Aquatic Club wins Oak Tree Medical Invitational
THE Mako Aquatic Club captured the second annual Oak Tree Medical Invitational held on Saturday at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex.
Gibson Jr and Rolle capture Unca Lou title
ONE of the top amateur golfers teamed up with one of the youngest competitors in the field as Richard Gibson Jr and Kerrington Rolle combined for a 59 net to win the St Augustine’s College Alumni Association’s inaugural Unca Lou Golf Tournament.
Friday, June 10
Pintard: Speaker owes NEMA director an apology
OFFICIAL Opposition Leader Michael Pintard says House Speaker Patricia Deveaux owes National Emergency Management Agency Director Captain Stephen Russell an apology.
Two injured in shooting at church
A SHOOTING incident took place at Grace Community Church in Marathon on Thursday evening resulting in two men being taken to hospital.
Four teens accused of Quinton McKenzie's murder
FOUR teens appeared in a Magistrate’s Court accused of murder.
23 Cuban migrants charged with illegal landing
Twenty-three Cuban migrants were charged this week in Freeport Magistrate’s Court with illegal landing in the Bahamas.
Woman jailed for making false rape report
A WOMAN was sentenced to two months in prison for making a false rape report and was told that she did a “very wicked thing.”
Man pleads not guilty to indecent assault of university students
A MAN pleaded not guilty to two counts of indecent assault of two female university students.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 10th June: Freeport
STARTS: 06/10/2022 8:30 PM EDT EXPIRES: 06/11/2022 1:00 AM EDT
DIANE PHILLIPS: Green high-top Converse a symbol of pain too much to bear
For a moment last Tuesday, Mathew McConaughey could have run for and been elected President of the United States. For a moment, the Oscar-winning actor took us all where we needed to be – in the heart of Uvalde, Texas where on May 24, a deranged 18-year-old brandishing an AR15 walked into an elementary school and for 40 minutes before the SWAT team arrived went on a killing spree, leaving 19 children and two teachers dead.
EDITORIAL: Union unrest amid economic uncertainty
TEACHERS ready for industrial action, nurses voting for industrial action – it looks like there are rocks ahead amid talk of the economy flowing again.
Moxey hails $3.7m for new unit
GRAND Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey says $3.7m allocated for a new unit called Collab: Partnerships for Development would bring “impactful change” to her Ministry and Grand Bahama.
Temporary kitchen donated to NEMA
US NORTHERN Command has delivered a third temporary kitchen unit to The Bahamas’ National Emergency Management Agency before the start of the 2022 Hurricane Season.
Cancelled: BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 10th June: Freeport
STARTS: 06/10/2022 2:30 PM EDT EXPIRES: 06/10/2022 4:17 PM EDT
A candle for Quinton
A CANDLELIGHT vigil was held last night in remembrance of Quinton McKenzie, 13, who died last Friday morning after he was hit in his head by two bullets.
Second tragedy for family
THE uncle of a 10-year-old boy who was murdered last year, was himself shot dead on Wednesday night.
Stem cell pioneer: Just 3% of claims accepted
Less than 3 percent of $16.5m in creditor claims against a Freeport business, once hailed for pioneering The Bahamas’ entry into the stem cell therapy industry, had been accepted as at end-May 2022.
‘Still among leaders’: But Bahamas’ FDI down 60%
The Bahamas is “still among the leaders” despite a United Nations (UN) agency yesterday revealing that foreign direct investment inflows to this nation declined by 60 percent year-over-year in 2021 to $360m.
Gov’t hails 69% VAT rise: Rate cut works
The Government is hailing its VAT rate cut for producing a 62.8 percent year-over-year increase in revenues to $299m for the three month period that closed at end-March 2022.
Vehicle theft claims ‘out of the ordinary’
A Bahamian insurer says an “out of the ordinary” increase in motor vehicle theft claims was among the principal factors why it missed profit projections for 2021.
Reflating economy aids $11.843bn debt burden
The Bahamas’ $11.843bn national debt at end-March 2022 has dropped below this nation’s economic output due to the continued post-COVID-rebound, resulting in a debt-to-GDP ratio of around 98.4 percent.
Deputy Speaker threatens to remove Opposition leader
DEPUTY House Speaker Sylvanus Petty threatened to have opposition leader Michael Pintard removed from the House of Assembly last night after the Marco City MP took exception to remarks made by North Abaco MP Kirk Cornish.
NEMA lays out timeline after tornado touchdown
THE National Emergency Management Agency sought yesterday to set a clear timeline of its involvement in relief efforts after a tornado touched down in parts of New Providence on Wednesday.
Sandals sex case couple hire ex-AG
FORMER Attorney General Carl Bethel, QC, is representing a US couple in the Bahamian courts in a $30m lawsuit against Sandals Resorts.
Nurses cast ballots in strike poll
THE majority of nurses who voted in yesterday’s strike poll cast ballots in favour of industrial action, according to Bahamas Nurses Union president Amancha Williams last night.
Speaker’s anger at NEMA boss’ response
HOUSE Speaker Patricia Deveaux sharply rebuked National Emergency Management Agency director Captain Stephen Russell yesterday, telling him “you need a 9 to 5 job” and suggesting he did not have the same vision as the government to advance the country.
‘LAST CHANCE TO CUT A DEAL’: Teachers leader warns stalled pay talks heading towards industrial action
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson has warned that it will not be business as usual in the upcoming fall school semester if the government does not present an “acceptable” proposal for an increase of teachers’ salaries.
BPL summer
ALLELUIA! I honestly was worried, but BPL will be able to supply electricity this summer.
Electric cars are a risk of electrocution
In the 2022/2023 Budget Communication, Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis announced that his government will reduce the duty rate on electric vehicles valued under $70,000 to 10 percent.
Prospects make pro debut in Minor League Baseball
THE newest group of Bahamian baseball prospects made their professional debuts in the Dominican Summer League (DSL) while others progressed to the Arizona (ACL) and Florida (FCL) Complex Leagues for their respective franchises.
Acklins man accused of assaulting officer
AN ACKLINS man was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with threatening a police officer and assaulting him with a vehicle.
Police: Rape claim on social media was false
GRAND Bahama Police are still searching for the suspect/suspects in connection with two rape incidents and one attempted robbery incident that occurred in Freeport.
FIFA Nations League qualifier: Bahamas vs Nicaragua today
TEAM Bahamas head coach Nesly Jean says they are looking forward to playing Nicaragua today at 5 pm in their first of two meetings in the FIFA Nations League Qualifier.
Pro basketball player Dwight Coleby signs in Venezuela
DWIGHT Coleby’s next stop on his professional basketball journey will take him to the Venezuelan SuperLiga.
Special Olympics update
TEAM Bahamas continues competition at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, hosted in Orlando, Florida.
Jonquel Jones scores 16, Sun stop the Fever 88-69 for 4th straight victory
UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Brionna Jones scored 18 points and Jonquel Jones added 16 to help the Connecticut Sun beat the Indiana Fever 88-69.
Miller-Uibo settles for fourth in 200m
Shaunae Miller-Uibo, preparing for another medal at the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon in July, had to settle for a fourth-place finish in her season debut in the women’s 200 metres yesterday at the Wanda Diamond League in Rome.
IAN FERGUSON: Grooming a workforce for corporate success
A grooming policy should reflect the needs of the employer while not unnecessarily restricting an employee’s individual expression. The more formal or professional the culture, and the more employees interact with individuals outside the workplace, the greater the need for employers to have a policy governing employee grooming and hygiene.
Gov’t allocates $4.5m for GB growth revival
A Cabinet minister yesterday said some $360,000 has been set aside to finance micro, small and medium-sized (MSME) businesses and entrepreneurs in Grand Bahama.
Ex-PM renews attack on cost of living ‘crisis’
The former prime minister yesterday renewed his attack on the Government’s decision to reimpose VAT on so-called “breadbasket” food items by arguing this has “made worse” the cost of living crisis faced by many Bahamians.
Swimmers get set for FINA Worlds
BAHAMAS Aquatics’ four-member team named to the FINA World Aquatics Championships are all set for their trip to Budapest, Hungary, June 18 to July 3.
Suspect accused of copper theft
A MAN was granted $4,000 bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of stealing and receiving almost $2k worth of copper wires from a woman’s house.
Unlawful sex charge for 55-year-old suspect
A MAN was remanded in Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of unlawfully having sex with a mentally unstable woman and assaulting her with a knife.
Man accused of attempted rape
A MAN was accused in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday of attempting to rape a 29-year-old woman.
All aboard at Crew House
THE new Crew House on East Bay Street, is the start of something “huge” for easterners, according to the manager of one of the newest full bar and lounge spots.
Minnis: Nation worse off under PLP
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis was yesterday critical of the Davis administration’s performance, insisting the country is worse off now since the Progressive Liberal Party assumed office last year.
Why not celebrate the Queen?
Today, Her Majesty our Queen - Queen of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas became Queen of the Realm and the Colonies. Could not be a stranger story... not planned as certainly the abdication of her Uncle was far from expected which plunged her father George VI to be King and she, Elizabeth the oldest a potential Queen probably after a long reign of her father.
$3,000 bail in causing harm case
A MAN, accused of causing harm to another man, was granted $3,000 bail in the Magistrate’s court yesterday.
Thursday, June 9
FRONT PORCH: Finding the balance in relations with the US and China
CHINA is obviously not attending the 2022 Summit of the Americas currently being hosted by the United States in Los Angeles. But the country of 1.4 billion looms large as a competitor to the US for the interests, investment needs and geopolitical considerations of the Caribbean and Latin America.
STATESIDE: The winds of war are picking up strength
AS REPORTS from the Russo-Ukraine War get pushed further off America’s front pages in favour of higher gas and other prices, mass shootings, COVID and miscellaneous political outrage from all sides, President Joe Biden and his most significant European and Asian allies are quietly preparing for what may be a smack down of the less than awesome Russian army before European unity starts to crumble later this year under the threat of no Russian fossil fuel imports as winter approaches.
EDITORIAL: Another summer of failure ahead for BPL?
WE’VE ASKED it before in this column – but what on Earth is going on at BPL?
Davis: I’ll raise gun smuggling issue
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis says he intends to raise the issue of gun smuggling into The Bahamas at the 2022 Summit of the Americas.
$12m plan to upgrade Moore’s Island infrastructure
WORKS and Utilities Minister Alfred Sears said his ministry plans to invest more than $12m on much needed infrastructural upgrades and repairs on Moore’s Island, Abaco.
Shelf life extended for vaccine
DESPITE a noted drop in vaccine uptake for the past several months, health officials have not thrown away any doses due to being granted shelf life extensions by international regulators.
Coral disease fighter: ‘We are being seen as pirates’
The scientific institute spearheading The Bahamas’ fight against a killer coral disease yesterday said it may have to start slashing local jobs this summer due to permitting woes, adding: “We’re being viewed as potential pirates.”
FOCOL ‘gunning’ to beat $40m savings for BPL
FOCOL Holdings is “gunning” to beat the $40m savings pledged to Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) customers through the New Providence rental generation it will supply to prevent summer blackouts, its chairman asserted yesterday.
Contractors Act reform must prevent ‘storm’
The Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday said the Government is prioritising reforms that will prevent a “storm” erupting in the sector through “thousands” of persons potentially being barred from obtaining licences.
Chinese funding wait halts $23.3m stadium upgrades
The $23.3m renovation of the Thomas A Robinson stadium has been placed “on hold” while the Government tries to obtain grant financing from the Chinese government, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday.
One dead, three injured in Bain Town shooting
A MAN was left dead and three other men are in the hospital after a shooting in Bain Town last night.
Key files ‘removed’ at Beach Authority
STAFF at Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority were told to file a police report after files from a computer in the office were downloaded and removed “after hours” without approval.
‘Cuban refugees posing threat to our security’
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis is concerned about Cuba’s absence from the 2022 Summit of the Americas, saying sanctions on the island nation have sparked desperation among residents posing an “existential threat” to the national security of The Bahamas.
‘Where did church’s Dorian funds go?’
THE Church of God has been asked in an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court to account for $500,000 in Hurricane Dorian contributions it received to aid victims and churches under its umbrella that were ravaged by the Category Five storm in 2019.
BPL: $15m maintenance put back to ‘manage cash’
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) has delayed $15m in maintenance overhauls beyond summer 2022 “to manage cash”, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday, while conceding that such practices have undermined generation “reliability”.
Glass Window rebuild can be ‘world famous’
A Cabinet minister yesterday confirmed construction on Eleuthera’s new Glass Window Bridge will begin next year amid hopes that the new infrastructure will become a tourist attraction in its own right.
Water Corp racked up $40m supplier debts
The Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) racked up a $40m debt owed to its major reverse osmosis suppliers since Hurricane Dorian struck in 2019, an MP said yesterday.
Man accused of firing gun
A MAN was remanded in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after “wantonly” discharging an unlicensed firearm.
Man accused of causing harm
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of causing harm and threats of death.
Suspect accused of stealing electronics
A MAN was granted $5,000 bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being accused of stealing more than $5,000 worth of electronics from another man’s home.
Senior men’s national soccer team to face Nicaragua at home
AFTER finishing 1-1 in the first weekend of 2022 Concacaf Nations League play, the Bahamas senior men’s national team returns home to the Thomas A Robinson Stadium to face Nicaragua.
Officer testifies over $44,000 marijuana find
A POLICE OFFICER testified in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday in a man’s drug trial for possession of $44,000 worth of Indian Hemp.
No respect for Queen’s 70th Jubilee
We show enormous respect to our mothers - grandmothers and great grandmothers in that case if we have the privilege of still having her. We treat them with enormous respect - never forgetting their birthdays - anniversary’s and in many cases even if they have left us, we memorialise them on their anniversary of their births and deaths.
Trampling on the Constitution?
Is our Constitution being trampled on?
Feeling pinch of inflation
Some months ago, the former US Treasury Secretary Larry Summers predicted the oncoming onslaught of inflation and offered advice on how the US government ought to counter it. However, the Joe Biden led government ignored him and now the chickens are coming home to roost.
Jazz speaks on his first grand slam, career high 6 RBI
JASRADO “Jazz” Chisholm Jr broke out of his recent slump with an electrifying performance and continues to build his résumé toward a 2022 National League All-Star berth.
BLTA partners with Urban Renewal
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) is pleased to partner with the urban renewal programme to provide tennis lessons to the wider community.
Crowdfund platform targets 12 more listings after ‘retool’
A Bahamian crowdfunding platform yesterday disclosed it is preparing to bring another 12 companies to market within the next three months following what it described as a six-month “retool”.
Denisha Cartwright named USTFCCCA Women’s Track Athlete of the Year
MINNESOTA State Mavericks sprinter Denisha Cartwright has been honoured by the US Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association for her stellar outdoor season.
Wednesday, June 8
ALICIA WALLACE: Climate change isn’t just a hurricane - it’s the flooding in our streets and we all need to get real
YEAR after year, the rainy seasons meets us unprepared.
EDITORIAL: Don’t panic - but be prepared
THE Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Michael Darville, sounded a cautious note as news broke yesterday of a suspected case of monkeypox in The Bahamas – but whether the case is confirmed or not, we should be prepared for the eventuality that the virus reaches our shores.
‘We want to give answers on Long Island crash soon’
TOURISM, Investments and Aviation Minister Chester Cooper says officials are hoping to expedite the investigation report into the Long Island plane crash so that they can provide survivors with answers as soon as possible.
Discussions over removing mask mandates on Family Islands
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said officials are currently discussing whether to remove the remaining mask mandates on certain Family Islands that have no active cases of COVID-19.
140 homes flooded in northern Bahamas
AT LEAST 140 homes in the northern Bahamas suffered flood damage due to heavy rainfall over the weekend, Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey said yesterday.
Marine seen in crocs had a heel injury
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) has sought to clear the air on a photo circulating on social media which shows a female marine wearing a neon pair of crocs during an event to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.
Record rainfall as nearly a month’s rain falls in a day
CHIEF Meteorological Officer Patricia Weeks revealed a record 6.43 inches of rain was recorded in Nassau from Monday to Tuesday.
Sandals founder’s family in Bahamian legal battle
The family of Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, the late Sandals resort chain founder, have become embroiled in an escalating Bahamian legal dispute over the multi-million dollar estate he has left behind.
Entrepreneur targets $850k for restaurant’s expansion
A restaurant entrepreneur yesterday moved to raise $850,000 from Bahamian crowdfunding investors to finance construction of a production and distribution centre and his planned franchise expansion.
Coral killer will ‘decimate’ tourism, fisheries sectors
The Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) top executive yesterday warned that tourism and other coral reef-reliant industries will be “decimated” unless this nation rapidly arrests the spread of a killer disease for these key marine ecosystems.
Bahamas can enjoy $177m boost from near-home focus
The Bahamas could increase goods exports by some $177m if it maximises its “nearshoring” potential, an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) study disclosed yesterday.
Murals unveiled by clean-up campaign
THE Keep Grand Bahama Clean (KGBC) Committee held the unveiling of four large concrete mosaic murals of sea horses at the roundabout at Settler’s Way and West Atlantic Drive on Thursday.
DEREK SMITH: Compliance amid rapid business change is key
Internal and external stakeholders, particularly in the areas of data protection and environmental, social and governance (ESG) responsibility, are placing increasing emphasis upon compliance. This compels chief compliance officers, chief risk officers and other executives to create a more flexible and responsive compliance function, even as they manage rising costs and company-wide expense-cutting pressures.
Petroleum retailers fear ‘implosion’ as gas hits $7
Petroleum retailers yesterday warned the industry could “implode” unless the Government urgently adjusts the price-controlled, fixed margin business it has laboured under for decades as gas prices breach the $7 per gallon mark.
Bahamian exporters hit by LPIA cargo scan woe
Cargo scanning woes at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) have blocked frustrated Bahamian exporters from sending thousands of dollars in native products to Europe since last year, Tribune Business can reveal.
Commissioner lands IMO role
OUTGOING Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle is to take on the role of ambassador to the International Maritime Organization.
CCTV rollout plan to raise park safety
THE Ministry of National Security will work to place CCTV cameras in public parks in the aftermath of the shooting death of a 13-year-old boy over the holiday weekend.
SUSPECTED CASE OF MONKEYPOX: Health Minister says patient in isolation for tests after signs of virus detected
A FOREIGN national who recently travelled to The Bahamas is being closely monitored by health officials for suspected monkeypox, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville revealed yesterday.
Man, 20, accused of underage sex
A MAN was charged in the Magistrate’s Court for having sex with an underaged girl.
Liberty battling injuries, COVID-19, look to get on roll
NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Liberty are a work in progress. When coach Sandy Brondello took over the team this year she knew it would take time for the players to gel on the court.
Jazz has grand slam among two homers, Marlins win
MIAMI (AP) — Jazz Chisholm Jr. homered twice, including a grand slam, and had a career-high six RBIs as the Miami Marlins beat the Washington Nationals 12-2 on Tuesday night.
Saunders hits his first home run for Cyclones, BJ Murray overcomes slow start
WARREN Saunders hit his first home run for the Brooklyn Cyclones while BJ Murray overcame a slow start to emerge as an offensive leader for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in Single A Baseball.
Equestrian Awards rock Balmoral Club
MEMBERS of the Equestrian sport community turned out in style at the Balmoral Club last weekend to celebrate the accomplishments of an eventful 2021-2022 competition season. Attendees enjoyed a raffle and silent auction as well as dinner and dancing.
Soccer: Bahamas men suffer 1-0 loss to Trinidad
AFTER winning their opening game of the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association (Concacaf) Nations League 1-0 over St Vincent & the Grenadines at home on Friday, the Bahamas men’s national soccer team suffered the same fate to host Trinidad & Tobago Monday night in game two of their home-and-away series.
Athletes await NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships
All attention this weekend will be on the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division One Outdoor Track and Field Championships when at least seven Bahamian athletes and four coaches are expected to compete for their respective schools at the Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.
Man denies failing to declare cash
A MAN was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday for failing to declare money to a US border officer.
Two facing court over vehicular manslaughter
TWO MEN were granted $10,000 bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday on two separate charges of vehicular manslaughter.
Biden’s war on oil
There was a Twitter post on Facebook alleging that a Bahamas Petroleum Dealers Association official stated that a gallon of gasoline had surpassed $7 at one particular service station in Nassau. A June 6 New York Post article stated that a Chevron station in Mendocino is charging $9.60 per gallon. In the US, the national average price is $4.86. Diesel is now $5.64.
No excuse for child abuse
I write this letter out of my frustration at the lack of an established national child sexual prevention programme in this country.
Vaccinations still key to end pandemic
We are enjoying a gradual reduction of COVID-restrictions in The Bahamas. That is a good thing to be celebrated. We should remember that COVID-19 is still present and new variants are still developing and spreading around the globe. The impact of the COVID-19 virus lingers across our country. Some have lost loved ones. Many of us have friends or family who are still feeling long-term COVID effects.
Tuesday, June 7
PETER YOUNG: A nation united for a Queen revered
THE Platinum Jubilee in Britain was nothing less than a glorious success and a triumph for The Queen, for the monarchy as an institution and for the whole country.
FACE TO FACE: Kenise on track with a home-grown hit and skills she wants to pass on
WHAT do you get when you combine a hard-working mom with a passion for arts and crafts, a knack for doing business and a commitment to helping the next generation? You get “Something Beautiful” - that’s the name of Kenise Darville’s company, which is gaining popularity in the tumbler world with outstanding drinking pieces that are durable and memorable.
EDITORIAL: Not a popular thing to say - but the right thing
HE won’t win many friends in politics by saying it – but Myles Laroda is right to draw attention to the state of the National Insurance Board reserves.
NEMA reacts as storm hits The Bahamas
THE National Emergency Management Agency gave a status report on the northern Bahamas after Tropical Cyclone Alex made landfall there this past weekend.
Survivors ‘traumatised’ by Long Island crash
FAMILY members of the surviving victims of the Long Island plane crash said the accident has left them shaken and traumatised.
‘Stay tuned’ for share offering, says Doctors
Doctors Hospital says investors will “hear from us in the next quarter” on plans to finance its multi-million dollar Bahamian healthcare expansion via an equity share offering.
Revenue chief: ‘No choice’ in pursuing $800m arrears
The Government’s top revenue official has admitted that the failure of successive administrations to enforce compliance with the law has resulted in the $800m “astronomical arrears” over real property tax.
IDB’s taxpayer boost for $385m Gov’t bond issue
The Bahamas will this week seek to limit the debt servicing burden for taxpayers via an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) guarantee that will underwrite most of its $385m foreign currency bond issue.
Gov’t set to ‘pursue’ Qatar on Bahamas aviation hub
The Government will “continue to pursue” Qatar Airways to establish an aviation hub in The Bahamas that can service Latin America and the wider Western Hemisphere, the deputy prime minister has pledged.
Suspected case of Monkeypox being monitored
The Ministry of Health has released a statement regarding a potential case of Monkeypox:
Food security
ActivTrades
The shockwaves caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continue to reverberate, transcending the nations directly involved and the wider European region. The impact has been profound and felt globally, both in the political and economic spheres.
Labour Day returns after COVID break
THE spirit of Randol Fawkes lives on as the annual Bahamas Labour Day March returned after a two year COVID hiatus.
‘We must process promotions’
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell admits the government must resolve “the capacity problem” to process promotions of public service workers.
VAT boost from $2bn real estate purchases
More than $2bn in real estate sales were brought forward for stamping and the payment of taxes during the first 11 months of the 2021-2022 fiscal year, it has been revealed.
Family’s anguish for slain teen
THE mother of teenager Quinton McKenzie spoke yesterday of her horror at the death of her 13-year-old son. Quinton died on Friday morning after he was hit in his head by two bullets.
FLIGHT HOME THAT ENDED IN TRAGEDY: Young mum caught early plane only to perish as it crashed
ALEITHEIA Newbold, the woman who died in a plane crash in Long Island on Sunday, was yesterday remembered by loved ones as a “bubbly, over joyous” person who was deeply loved by all who knew her.
WNBA: Jonquel Jones earns Player of the Week honours
JONQUEL Jones concluded May with a season low scoring effort but opened June with season highs in three consecutive games to earn WNBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week honours.
‘Can’t be left behind’ in competitive world
The global pandemic has presented us with many opportunities and lessons for creating a society that is more sustainable and better prepared.
New Legend, New Susan Chase and Xena victorious
53RD ANNUAL LONG ISLAND REGATTA IN SALT POND
The 53rd annual Long Island Regatta was held over the weekend in Salt Pond, Long Island and was dubbed a tremendous success.
‘Jazz’ faces Richardson, Fox in the same week
THE Bahamian connection in Major League Baseball continues to take centre stage in Miami, Florida.
Inaugural Bahamas All-Pro Celebrity Weekend: Bahamian NFL players to headline list of stars
BAHAMIAN National Football League players Michael Strachan and Rashad Fenton will headline a list of stars in town for the inaugural Bahamas All-Pro Celebrity Weekend at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
Strachan left in the blocks
As Jamaica’s two-time double sprint champion Elaine Thompson-Herah went on to post a meet record in the women’s 100 metres at the Wanda Diamond League Meeting in Rabat on Sunday, a technical error left Bahamian Anthonique Strachan watching in disbelief in the starting blocks.
Accused of fraud marriage to gain permit
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court last week after being accused of attempting a fraud marriage to gain a spousal permit.
Two charges of endangering life
A MAN faced two counts of endangering life and a charge of causing grievous harm to a woman in Magistrate’s Court last week.
Three face court on drugs charges
THREE WOMEN and a man were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on separate drug charges.
Barefoot boy
As I walked to the corner to catch the 21 bus, something inside kept telling me that this would be one of the best days I had ever had.
Scientists losing jobs
Because of a knee jerk, silly law passed by the former FNM government, our brightest young scientists are finding themselves out of work and at risk of permanent serious damage to their careers.
Accused of manslaughter
A MAN was charged in the Magistrate’s Court for manslaughter and possession of an unlicenced firearm.
Boys accused of stabbing
TWO teenage boys were charged in Magistrate’s Court in connection with the stabbing of two students at AF Adderley Junior High last week.
Wanted man surrenders
A GRAND Bahama suspect wanted for assault with a deadly weapon surrendered to police on Sunday.
Monday, June 6
UPDATE: Appeal to those on crashed plane to contact AAIA
MONDAY UPDATE: On Monday, Delvin Major of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) appealed to those who were on the aircraft that crashed in Long Island on Sunday to reach out to the AAIA.
Sunday, June 5
UPDATED: Tropical Storm Warning for northwest Bahamas discontinued
From the Bahamas Department of Meteorology:
The Bahamas beat St Vincent & the Grenadines 1-0
WITH a penalty kick from veteran captain Lesly St Fleur, the Bahamas Junkanoo Boys national men’s soccer team prevailed with an impressive 1-0 victory over St Vincent & the Grenadines on Friday at the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium in game one of their World Cup Qatar Qualification.
Saturday, June 4
Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey releases statement on Potential Tropical Cyclone One
Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey released a statement on Potential Tropical Cyclone One on Saturday night, saying the public is advised to remain indoors and to remain vigilant:
Grand Bahama Airport closed due to tropical cyclone winds
Grand Bahama Airport will be closed immediately due to winds associated with the tropical cyclone moving over Florida on Saturday.
BPL Skyguard Wind Warning 6th June: Nassau
STARTS: 06/04/2022 10:15 AM EDT EXPIRES: 06/04/2022 7:30 PM EDT
Potential Tropical Cyclone One – Saturday morning update
From the Bahamas Department of Meteorology:
Friday, June 3
Potential Tropical Cyclone One – Friday early evening update
From The Bahamas Department of Meteorology:
NEMA 'ready for hurricane season'
A CABINET minister says the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is ready for hurricane season with $500,000 set aside.
NIB reserves forecast to 'decline sharply'
A Cabinet minister said reserves at the National Insurance Board (NIB) are forecasted to “decline sharply” in the next few years and called for a contribution rate increase of 2 percent.
Govt reverses previous administration's stance on Venezuela's Maduro regime
In light of three countries being excluded from the upcoming Summit of the Americas, Foreign Affairs and Public Service Minister Fred Mitchell has announced that the government is reversing the previous administration's position on Venezuela and is now supporting Nicholas Maduro's regime.
Potential Tropical Cyclone One – Friday afternoon update
From the Bahamas Department of Meteorology:
Eight Mile Rock hosts Randol Fawkes Labour Day March
Despite overcast skies, marchers turned out in force for the Randol Fawkes Labour Day March which started at Seagrape, Eight Mile Rock, at 8am on Friday and concluded at the St Stephen's Anglican Church grounds where various trade union representatives spoke.
Tropical Storm Warning in effect for northwestern Bahamas
The latest from The Bahamas Department of Meteorology on the weather system in the Gulf of Mexico:
Thursday, June 2
18 Bahamians named in Queen's Birthday Honours
Eighteen Bahamians have been named in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
'Daunting task' of removing storm-damaged vehicles from Grand Bahama continues
THE removal of the 30,000 plus storm-damaged vehicles in the City of Freeport and other parts of the island is continuing two years after Dorian, a Grand Bahama Port Authority official said.
Department of Inland Revenue '$100m over revenue target'
THE acting director of the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) said the agency is $100m over its revenue target for the current fiscal year.
System likely to become tropical depression or storm
On Thursday, The Bahamas Department of Meteorology released the following statement on a weather system near the southeastern Gulf of Mexico:
Waterspout forms next to Paradise Island Bridge
This video shows the moment a waterspout appeared at the Paradise Island Bridge on Thursday afternoon.
STATESIDE: When – if ever – is it going to stop?
IS horrific gun violence in the US even newsworthy anymore? One can reasonably wonder what will be required for American legislators to enact meaningful gun control laws.
FRONT PORCH: Geopolitical lessons from Pacific Island states
BEGINNING last week, China’s Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi embarked on an unprecedented ten-day tour with a delegation of 20 to ten Pacific Island countries with which the People’s Republic has diplomatic relations.
Marijuana legislation ‘by end of summer’
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder says legislation for marijuana legalisation should be concluded by the end of the summer.
Nation ‘must be prepared’ for monkeypox outbreak
THE Bahamas must be on alert and prepared to take rapid action for an inevitable outbreak of monkeypox, according to a Pan American Health Organization official.
$6m allocated for food security initiatives
THE government is allocating over $6m to support its food security initiatives, according to Agriculture and Marine Resources Minister Clay Sweeting.
$4.2bn in hurricane damages
THE Bahamas has suffered more than $4.2bn in damages and losses as a result of hurricanes over the last seven years, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis revealed yesterday as he called for more to be done to fight against climate change.
Architect draws up plans for fire-hit stalls
AGRICULTURE, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs Minister Clay Sweeting said his ministry has contracted an architect to design three stalls for Potter’s Cay Dock vendors who were affected by a fire last year.
Aviation relief as ‘really ugly’ outcome averted
Bahamas Customs has apologised for its now-aborted efforts to introduce a new border control system for private aviation that could have produced “a really ugly” outcome if implemented.
Bank chief challenges PM over $80m ‘revenue loss’
A Bahamian commercial bank chief yesterday challenged the Prime Minister’s assertion that the Government lost $80m in revenues through the sector’s 2018 tax structure change to meet the European Union’s (EU) demands.
PM ‘confident’ over bank tax despite blacklist fear
The Prime Minister yesterday voiced “confidence” that changes to commercial bank taxation will not violate existing agreements with the European Union (EU) despite Opposition fears it “could shake the foundation of our credibility”.
PM: Property tax arrears at $800m
The Prime Minister yesterday revealed that real property tax arrears now total $800m as he pointed to the Government's plan to allocate all past due revenues to paying off the national debt when collected.
House blows traded over 350% yacht charter hike
The Prime Minister and an ex-Cabinet minister yesterday traded blows over the Government's plan to increase the taxation rate on foreign charter operators by 350 percent in the upcoming 2022-2023 fiscal year.
Private liabilities ‘settled’ by new financial year
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder says private financial liabilities owed by the government should be settled going into the new fiscal year.
UB president hails graduates at Northern Campus
BAHAMAS University president Dr Rodney Smith commended the 40-plus graduates of the Class of 2022 for surviving these past years to complete their studies at UB North, while enduring the challenges caused by Hurricane Dorian and the COVID pandemic.
Legal aid project launched by Eugene Dupuch Law School
THE Eugene Dupuch Law School (EDLS) has partnered with the Attorney General’s Office, The Bahamas Bar Association and The Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions (the Agency) to launch a Community-Based Legal Aid Project (CLAP).
Pupils stabbed in school fight
TWO students were stabbed during an argument on the AF Adderley Junior High School campus.
Thompson slams govt ‘fiscal irresponsibility’
A FORMER Cabinet minister yesterday accused the Government of “the height of fiscal irresponsibility” with the Budget’s projected deficit forecast to overshoot by some $149m targets set just four months ago.
Davis: $2bn in investments approved by government
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis has revealed his administration has approved over $2bn in investments since assuming office last year.
Agricultural Fund seeking to revive interest among young
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the Government plans to create an Agricultural Development Fund that will give young farmers access to grant and loan financing.
'Economic dignity': Container Port slashes casuals to 24%
The Prime Minister yesterday said the Government's drive for "economic dignity" had resulted in Freeport Container Port reducing the number of "casual" employees in its workforce to 24 percent.
Managing the Budget’s perils
The 2022-2023 Budget has generated vibrant, robust discussion in certain quarters and an uncanny level of silence in others.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Promoting greater staff advancement
You have been working hard, putting in long hours at the office and giving in to every demand from your boss, and you are still being passed over for a promotion. Being a loyal worker clearly is not enough to get you to the next career level, so what is a dedicated employee to do?
Antoan Richardson discusses coaching role with Giants
ANTOAN Richardson’s San Francisco Giants are once again expected to battle for a National League postseason spot and the club’s first base coach detailed his decision to accept the post in addition to the appeal of the Giants organisation in his recent media availability.
Senior men’s national soccer team back on pitch
THE Bahamas Football Association’s senior men’s national team returns to the pitch this weekend to kickoff the second edition of the CONCACAF Nations League.
‘Jazz’ Chisholm Jr hits home run, drives in four
After two hitless games since his return from a hamstring injury, Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr was the catalyst of a Miami Marlins offensive explosion in the first game of yesterday’s double header.
$2,000 bail over threats
A MAN was granted $2,000 bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday for issuing threats of harm.
Counselling for drugs
A MAN was ordered to attend six months of drug counselling yesterday as part of a conditional discharge.
Two accused after woman punched
TWO MEN were charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with punching a woman and stealing nearly $1,000 worth of her property.
Sacrilege trial hears testimony from officers
TWO OFFICERS testified in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday at a man’s ongoing sacrilege trial for breaking into a church last year.
Response to China allegations
This letter to The Tribune editor is regarding a report in The Tribune’s May 30th issue raising questions about Chinese products and technologies.
Happy Platinum Jubilee
What an achievement. Something most of us can only aspire to and look on in awe. Her Majesty The Queen is celebrating a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years of service to the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth.
Wednesday, June 1
ALICIA WALLACE: Be proud but don’t forget the messages that lie behind it
IN many countries all over the world, today marks the beginning of Pride month. It is most often celebrated in June because the Stonewall riots - catalyst for the LGBTQI+ movement in the US — took place in June 1969.
EDITORIAL: Nurse dispute has gone on too long
BACK in October 2020 in this column, we wrote about a dispute between nurses and the Public Hospitals Authority.
GBPA: We’re ready for storm season
THE Grand Bahama Port Authority Ltd announced yesterday that it has completed a “robust and comprehensive” Storm Response Plan for the start of the new Hurricane Season.
PM pledges solar power field by next year
PRIME Minister Phiilip “Brave” Davis said yesterday the government has made a commitment to have a 60 megawatt solar power field by next year.
Change of routes in drug trafficking
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe says officials have noticed new drug trafficking trends with smugglers using different routes than seen in past.
Doctor concerned over hospital system capacity to handle COVID rise
A senior physician says she expects increases in the COVID-19 infection rate and is fearful the hospital system is unable to deal with the infected and its regular patients at the same time.
Last-minute rescue for private aviation
Bahamas Customs yesterday flew to the private aviation industry’s last-minute rescue by delaying implementation of a new border control regime that some feared could drive away up to 50 percent of this nation’s business.
Cruise port hits 97% end-May occupancy
Passenger occupancies on vessels calling at Nassau Cruise Port in the final week of May exceeded 97 percent, it was revealed yesterday, signalling the sector is closing on full recovery from COVID-19’s ravages.
Budget’s housing focus can be ‘windfall catalyst’
The Budget’s focus on stimulating home ownership “could be the catalyst that triggers an economic windfall” by boosting investor confidence in the wider economy, the Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president believes.
‘Get past need for Budget secrecy’
The Government must “move past this need for secrecy” in the annual Budget process and avoid blindsiding the private sector and wider Bahamian public on planned fiscal reforms, a prominent banker is arguing.
Insurers: Monday night floods a ‘wake-up call’
Bahamian insurers yesterday said Monday night’s heavy rainfall and flooding should be a “wake-up call” for all home and vehicle owners, plus businesses, ahead of what is expected to be an active 2022 hurricane season.
Flooded streets - and more rain on way
TORRENTIAL rains are on the horizon bringing most of us a wet holiday weekend.
Ministry to celebrate Cooperative Month
THE Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs is celebrating Cooperative Month this month.
Former senator on sex offence charge
A FORMER SENATOR was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with indecently assaulting a 12-year-old boy.
India donates $1m for Abaco shelter
THE government of India has donated $1m to assist with the construction of the Abaco community centre and hurricane shelter. The funds are being facilitated through India’s United Nations Development Partnership Fund.
Nurses heading to June 9 strike vote
BAHAMAS Nurses Union (BNU) is set to hold a strike vote on June 9 over an outstanding industrial agreement and a 40 percent scale increase.
DOMES USED AS ‘BROTHELS’: Officials probing new claims of illicit use of emergency housing
GOVERNMENT officials are investigating reports that emergency dome houses on Abaco are being used as brothels.
Bahamian blood on US Second Amendment
Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis’ startling claim that 90 percent of confiscated guns used in murders in this country have been traced to American manufacturers and firearm retailers suggests to this writer that the 2nd Amendment to the US Constitution is stained with Bahamian blood.
BPL woes can’t be solved ‘overnight’
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) struggles to keep the power on are the result of “legacy issues” that cannot be solved “overnight”, a trade union leader asserted yesterday.
Unions won’t ‘twiddle thumbs’ on industrial agreement delay
A union leader yesterday warned that the labour movement will “not sit around twiddling our thumbs” as he voiced displeasure with the Government’s failure to progress multiple industrial agreement negotiations.
US woman fined over live ammunition in luggage
AN American woman was fined $500 in Magistrate’s Court yesterday for having a live round of 9mm ammunition in her luggage.
Bailed in stolen car case
A MAN was granted $6,000 bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after attempting to sell a stolen car.
Leaders need to act on flooding
What has happened over the last few weeks should now more than ever be a wake up call for our country’s parliamentary leaders.
Man accused of attack on wife
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday for allegedly assaulting his wife.
Sprint hurdler Charlton clocks season’s best time
Sprint hurdler Devynne Charlton continues her season of milestones with another new season’s best time.
Isaacs Jr and Seymour offensive leaders
ANFERNEE Seymour and Todd Isaacs Jr have had productive starts to their seasons in independent baseball leagues and have emerged among early offensive leaders for their respective clubs.
O’Neil Williams gets set to run in Berlin Marathon
VETERAN distance runner O’Neil Williams will have another opportunity to add to his résumé of accolades when he competes in the elite field of one of the most highly regarded events on the international marathon circuit.
Teens accused of gunpoint robbery
TWO TEENAGERS were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of stealing $300 from a woman at gunpoint.
