Friday, December 29
Pintard raises concerns with PM over Fiscal Responsibility Council
In a letter to Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis on Thursday, Opposition Leader Michael Pintard raised concerns about the state of the Fiscal Responsibility Council (FRC), in light of a Tribune article from earlier this month.
Union president calls for better safety, medical coverage for casual workers
Julian Russell, president of the Bahamas Industrial General Services Union (BIGSU), is calling for better safety and medical coverage for casual workers after a recent incident at the shipyard.
Three charged with separate murders
THREE MEN are behind bars after they were allegedly involved in three separate murders that occurred over the Christmas weekend in New Providence.
Three face firearm, ammunition charges
THREE men were granted bail after they were allegedly found with a loaded gun in New Providence last month.
Woman accused of attacking man with rock
A WOMAN was granted bail on Friday after she allegedly injured a man with a rock on Davis Street last month
HUBERT EDWARDS: The Bahamas performance for 2023 and outlook for 2024
It is beyond doubt that the reported performance of the country for the last fiscal, 2022-23, has been noteworthy. Following two years of deep decline, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and an intervening “bounce back” year, 2023 has seen positive economic performance for the country but unfortunately lacking in sufficient potency to seriously start to change our fortunes.
12292023 EDITION
Friday, 29th December, 2023.
Clubs & Societies December 29th, 2023
On Friday, December 8, the Kiwanis Club of Over-The-Hill provided a Christmas treat for the end of term for the preschoolers at Coconut Grove Preschool.
FACE TO FACE: The amazing people of 2023
I came face to face with some amazing people this year. It has been my pleasure to share their stories and hopefully inspire you, dear readers, to be more, do more, and love more.
DIANE PHILLIPS: All over in a heartbeat, why? Argument to preserving Junkanoo pieces throughout the islands
It happened again this year. Just like it does every year. The magic sounds, rhythm and beat of Junkanoo are still pounding in our ears, our hearts are still beating a bit faster, we can hardly stop doing the shuffle, when it all comes crashing down.
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION – Avis Sturrup-Munroe: A Beacon of Hope and Healing for Cancer Fighters
In the face of adversity, Avis Sturrup-Munroe emerges not only as a breast cancer survivor but as a beacon of hope for others battling the disease.
EDITORIAL: Unanswered questions still linger
THE year is almost done. 2023 is almost out of the door, and 2024 is getting ready to come knocking.
Darville says final meetings to establish protocols for genetic testing coming early in new year
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said final meetings to establish genetic testing protocols for people affected by the landmark Privy Council ruling are set for early January 2024.
Police warn ‘zero tolerance’ in GB during New Year’s Junkanoo
CHIEF Superintendent Alvardo Dames, the officer in charge of the central division in Grand Bahama, said there will be a significant police presence at the New Year’s Day Parade.
‘Airlift holding back Cat Island tourism’
A Cat Island hotelier said the tourism market in the southern islands is only constrained by a lack of airlift. Carl Rolle, owner of Rollezz Villas and Beach Resort in Cat Island, said his hotel was fully booked over the holiday season, with strong bookings to continue into early next year.
‘Don’t revise entire building code - just adjust for certain islands’
BAHAMAS Contractors Association president Leonard Sands said yesterday that the entire building code does not need to be revised - just the code for certain islands.
Slowdown in inflation, reports Central Bank
The Central Bank of The Bahamas said inflation slowed to 4.1 percent in its monthly economic developments report for November.
Skydive company told to stop advertising its jumps
A skydiving excursion provider has been warned by the Civil Aviation Authority of The Bahamas (CAAB) to not advertise any jumps until given further approval.
New Cabinet appointments announced
THE Office of the Prime Minister announced changes to the executive yesterday, which will take effect on January 2, 2024.
Music Makers disqualified due to not enough participants, says JCNP
JUNKANOO Corporation of New Providence chairman Dion Miller said the organisation is still waiting to learn why the Prodigal Sons dropped out of the Boxing Day parade, adding that Music Makers was disqualified from the competition because it did not have enough participants to meet eligibility requirements.
POLICE ‘KILLED MY SON LIKE A DOG‘: Mother distraught after shooting of 27-year-old, Officers say that coroner will investigate
ANGRY relatives and friends berated authorities after police killed Dino Bain hours before the man’s birthday yesterday.
Grand Bahama senior boys steal spotlight
As the Providence Basketball Club’s 24th Yuletide Classic continued yesterday at the CI Gibson Gymnasium, the two senior boys teams from Grand Bahama took the spotlight.
Falcons eliminated in Arby’s Classic
IN their 23rd trip to the Arby’s Classic, head coach Kevin Clarke said his Tabernacle Baptist Academy Falcons continue to get the high level high school basketball talent to get them ready for the local competition in the Bahamas.
DR KENT BAZARD – Beyond the barbell: The multidimensional approach to sports performance training
IN the realm of sports, the pursuit of peak performance is a complex and nuanced journey. As a sports medicine physician and a certified sports performance coach, I have witnessed the evolution of sports performance training from traditional weightlifting to a more holistic approach.
VJ Edgecombe named Junior Male Athlete of the Year
Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe has been awarded the Tribune’s 2023 Junior Male Athlete of the Year. With athletics and aquatics garnering a number of the top stories throughout the year, Edgecombe provided a bright spot for basketball in the junior category.
Man from Eight Mile Rock arrested for drug possession
A male resident of Eight Mile Rock was arrested on Wednesday after he was allegedly found possessing a quantity of illegal drugs.
Praises for ‘new day’ government
2023 was a game changing year and one of the literal resurrection of The Bahamas.
Focus on fixing potholes
I would be grateful if I might pass a little suggestion on to Minister Sweeting to say that although $98,000,000.00 is an impressive amount of money, we don’t need to repave all of the roads in New Providence, but we do need to repair the 98,000,000 pot holes that are in those roads.
Never forget human rights are critical
UN Human Rights report … what a contrast between Minister Munroe and Prime Minister Davis’ comments yesterday.
Man charged with possession of assault rifle, death threats
A MAN was sent to prison until the New Year after he was allegedly found with an assault rifle following a police-involved shooting near Grant Street over the holiday weekend.
Woman who attacked man with cutlass to take anger classes
A WOMAN was placed on six months probation and ordered to attend anger management classes after she admitted to assaulting a man with a cutlass on Christmas Eve.
Woman accused of stealing purse granted $4,000 bail
A WOMAN was granted bail yesterday after she was accused of stealing a purse containing $2,400 in cash in a store last holiday weekend.
Man with drugs for personal use, gets six months probation
A MAN was put on six months probation after he admitted to having a quantity of cocaine and marijuana for his personal use earlier this month.
Thursday, December 28
STATESIDE: Complexities of anti-Semitism, Zionism and anti-Zionsim as Israel Hamas war continues
SINCE Hamas launched its sneak attack on southern Israel nearly three months ago on October 7, the UN estimates that 21,000 Palestinians have been killed. Thousands of Israelis have also perished.
FRONT PORCH: Programmes for at-risk youth should start with expert advice
DURING the period of governance under Sir Lynden Pindling there was considerable discussion of introducing a national youth service. The idea of a service was influenced by such services in Guyana and Africa.
EDITORIAL: How many assistants does Commissioner need?
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander’s defence of the recent promotion exercise that has left the Royal Bahamas Police Force with 14 assistant commissioners is a curious one.
Grand Bahama Junkanoo community mourns the loss of Anthony ‘Huck’ Williams
THE Grand Bahama Junkanoo community is mourning the loss of cultural icon Anthony “Huck” Williams, the founder and leader of the Swingers Junkanoo Group, who died on December 24 after a long battle with cancer.
Addressing citizenship inequalities is a priority next year, says Davis
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said that addressing citizenship inequalities is a priority for his administration next year.
Opposition raises alarm over skyrocketing Q1 deficit
The Opposition’s finance spokesman yesterday warned against an “exploded” deficit for Q1 and chided the government on holding back on its August and September fiscal report for so long.
Central Bank expects growth at ‘moderated pace’ in economy
The Central Bank revealed yesterday that the reduction in external reserve balances for November slowed by over $77.8m from 2022, reflective of net foreign currency outflows through the private sector.
GB chamber chief: Govt has to tighten its belt too
The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce president said more focus needs to be put on public expenditure and the government needs to tighten its belt just like the average Bahamian.
Online sales thriving - but in-store down on last year
Bahamian retailers are reporting a mixed Christmas sales period, but online platforms showed strong performance.
PM announces changes to Cabinet
Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis has announced the following changes to the Cabinet, effective January 2, 2024:
One Family optimistic despite hiccups and delays on Boxing Day
A YEAR after sweeping the Junkanoo parades, One Family finished a disappointing fifth in the 2023 Boxing Day parade but remains in “high spirits”, according to its leader.
Music Makers get backlash over Hurricane Dorian theme
JUNKANOO group Music Makers drew backlash for referring to Hurricane Dorian during the Boxing Day parade –– but its leader said its performance was meant to be an “expression of love”.
Authorities must ‘go back to table’ after murder count tops 100 again
AFTER missing his goal of keeping murders below 100 this year, police Commissioner Clayton Fernander said authorities must “go back to the table and see where we could strategise and do some things differently”.
Fernander defends high number of ACPs
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander defended the high number of assistant commissioners in the Royal Bahamas Police Force after recent promotional exercises brought the number to 14.
SUPERSTARS SHINE: Saxons inch past Valley, Colours take top spot in B
THE Shell Saxons Superstars unofficially won the Boxing Day Parade, dominating the major categories with its Ancient Rulers theme.
Man visiting Bimini on a cruise ship drowns
A 55-year-old man from Pensacola, Florida, drowned in Bimini yesterday.
Man charged with molesting 7-year-old girl remanded
A 20-year-old man was locked behind bars yesterday after he was accused of molesting his seven-year-old niece earlier this month.
Man charged with having illegal firearm granted bail
A MAN was granted bail after he was allegedly found with a loaded gun outside a bar on Nassau Street following a brief police pursuit last week.
Man held in prison after breaching his bail ten times
A MAN was sent to prison yesterday after he allegedly breached his curfew and failed to charge his monitoring device ten times this year while on bail for stealing charges.
RBPF announce promotion exercise for 721 officers
POLICE last week announced the promotion of 721 officers.
Laffer curve and taxes
WHAT is the Laffer curve? The tax rates and the amount of taxes collected by government, and the impact it has on the economy.
What really needs to be done on roads
EVIDENTLY, the present Davis-led administration is moving full speed ahead with turning Gladstone Road into a dual carriageway, a project initially proposed by the former Minnis-led administration. No one can reasonably deny that New Providence has a traffic problem, so this road reconstruction project is welcome news.
Providence Classic starts with a bang
The Providence Basketball Club’s 24th annual Yuletide Basketball Classic got off with a bang yesterday at the CI Gibson Gymnasium, despite the organisers having to juggle the line-up in the absence of a few teams.
Raynor Andrews makes it official with Rutgers
AFTER making the switch from basketball to football, Raynor ‘Big Ray’ Andrews now finds his way on the verge of joining one of the elite college football programmes at Rutgers University where he will be playing for the Scarlet Knights team next year.
Laurann Brown makes adjustment to softball
IN one year, Laurann Brown made an impressive switch to softball at Harris- Stowe State University in Missouri after she transferred from Dodge City Community College where she played soccer.
Greene elected to CAZOVA board
KURTWOOD Greene, the third vice president of the Bahamas Volleyball Federation (BVF), was elected to the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Board of Administration during the electoral congress held at the Brix Hotel on Coblentz Avenue in Port of Spain on Sunday, December 17, 2023.
Jamiah Nabbie named Female Junior Athlete of the Year
Jamiah Nabbie capped off a successful track season crowned as the Tribune’s 2023 Junior Female Athlete of the Year.
Departures up nearly a quarter in November, says Central Bank
The tourism sector recording "healthy growth" with departures up 23.9 percent in November with the economy forecasted to maintain its growth trajectory for the remainder of the year, the Central Bank said yesterday.
Wednesday, December 27
Man shot dead off Bernard Road
Police are searching for the occupants of a grey Nissan Note who reportedly shot and killed a man on Wednesday.
Serial sex offender Sidney Cooper charged with indecent exposure
SERIAL sex offender Sidney Cooper was charged with indecent exposure and released on bail Wednesday after allegedly flashing his privates and making unwanted sexual advances to a woman on Christmas Eve.
ALICIA WALLACE: Set SMART and attainable goals for the new year
NOW that Christmas is behind us, attention has turned to New Year’s Day.
WORLD VIEW – Guatemala: Democracy vs unbridled AG authority
Recent events in the Central American country, Guatemala, underscores why organs of government in any country should have oversight bodies that have the authority to curb rogue behaviour by office holders. These events also demonstrate why legislation should be carefully drafted and reviewed before being passed into law.
EDITORIAL: Murder count tops 100 again, despite COP’s promise
IN August of last year, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander was insistent that the country would not pass a total of 100 murders. He was wrong.
Man drowns after car accident in Abaco and a woman in GB attempts suicide
A MAN drowned after a car accident in Abaco on Monday.
Former FNM MP Floyd Watkins II dead at 73
FORMER parliamentarian Floyd Watkins II died at 73 on December 23.
Disney making school dreams come true
DISNEY Cruise Line (DCL) cast and crew members visited communities in Nassau, where DCL ships visit regularly, Abaco, where its private island destination Castaway Cay is located, and Eleuthera, where DCL is creating its new island destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, recently.
A festive treat
THE National Children’s Choir was among the entertainers at Christmas in the Gardens at Government House last week.
‘Junkanoo in Paradise’ - A new musical running on stage at Atlantis
LOCALS and tourists are familiar with Junkanoo in Marina Village, near casinos and Bay Street in December.
UPDATED – Saxons overall winners of Boxing Day parade
JUNKANOO supporters mocked officials after inclement weather that forced the postponement of the Boxing Day parade never came –– but Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg said standard practices and scientific information spurred the change.
Flat revenues and spending increase see rise in deficit
Flat revenues and a $47m increase in total spending resulted in a near-tripling of the government’s first quarter fiscal deficit year-over-year.
‘Rebound is welcome – but there’s work to do’
A top financial expert said while the economic rebound was significant, there is still a lot of work left to do to get the country back on a pre-pandemic growth path.
SunCash leading the way on transactions of Sand Dollars
A digital payments provider is proud to tout they are processing 80 percent of all Sand Dollar transactions as it leads the way to more business accounts for 2024.
Govt ‘not grasping at straws’ with business licence process
A former Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) chairman said the government is “not grasping at straws” with its new enhanced Business Licence audit verification process.
Prodigal Sons pull out – Bowleg says group needs to give reason or repay seed money
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg said the Prodigal Sons Junkanoo group must provide a decent reason for dropping out of the Boxing Day parade or reimburse the seed money provided by the government.
Still in limbo despite ruling on citizenship
MANY would welcome giving citizenship to a Harvard-educated scholar like Dr April Finlayson, but seven months after the Privy Council ruled that people like her are citizens at birth, she still can’t get a Bahamian passport and limits her visits to The Bahamas to avoid being warned again that she overstayed her time in the country of her birth.
DEADLY CHRISTMAS AS FOUR MURDERED: Police shooting kills another as he ‘attacks officers with cutlass’
THE heartbroken girlfriend of a man killed on Sunday said her two sons were robbed of the precious memory of spending Christmas with their father, with one crying: “Mummy, daddy is dead.”
Rattlers fall short of title
THE CI Gibson Rattlers came close to bringing home one of the divisional championship titles at the Tarkanian Basketball Classic in Las Vegas, Nevada. But they had to settle for unwrapping the runners-up hardware over the Christmas holiday weekend.
I-BAP pop up camp a success
I-BAP (Bahamas Athletic Pride) in collaboration with New York’s Electric City Bombers hosted a successful pop up Christmas camp on Saturday at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex to close out the 2023 calendar year.
Athletes qualify early for CARIFTA Games
BEFORE athletes took a break for Christmas festivities, they hit the qualifying mark for the 2024 CARIFTA Games at the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) Odd Distance Meet on Friday at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
Providence Basketball Holiday Classic tips off today
IN the aftermath of the Christmas celebrations and as a prelude to the second half of the regular season in the new year, the Providence Basketball Club Holiday Classic is all set to tip off today at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.
Clarke sisters give back
IN her usual way of giving back, tennis player Sydney Clarke returned to the Bahamas Children’s Hostel for the third consecutive year to provide some much-needed supplies of groceries, toiletries and toys to the 30 residents of the home from nine months to 18 years of age.
Man presumed dead after falling off a cruise ship destined for The Bahamas
A 41-year-old man is presumed dead after going overboard on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship to The Bahamas on December 23, two days into the cruise.
Be aware of threats to your kids
“The greatest threat to our children doesn’t come from strangers. It comes from people we know and trust.” – Darkness to Light.
Is political arrogance rising again?
Past political experience has shown clearly the Bahamian electorate hates an ‘arrogant’ Government — we saw that after 26 years in government even Sir Lynden fell to that … Hubert Ingraham ... Perry Christie and Hubert Minnis got the same treatment. Arrogance saw the end of their terms in office.
Condolences for Watkins family
“It was with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of my former colleague, Mr. Floyd Watkins,” the Rt Hon Hubert Ingraham wrote on learning of the former MP’s death.
Tuesday, December 26
Christmas Day murder is fourth killing in 48 hours
A MAN was shot dead on Christmas Day in the latest of a series of shootings over the Christmas period that left four people killed in 48 hours, and a fifth man shot dead by police.
Monday, December 25
Boxing Day Junkanoo parade postponed until Tuesday
The Junkanoo Corporation New Providence Limited (JCNP) has announced that the Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade has been postponed until Tuesday night at 10pm – due to inclement weather conditions.
Sunday, December 24
Man in hospital after police involved shooting
A 38-year-old man is in hospital after he was shot by police and a firearm was confiscated.
Two men questioned after Gambier Village shooting death
Police are questioning two men in connection with a shooting on Saturday that claimed the life of a 31-year-old man.
Saturday, December 23
Friday, December 22
Minister of Health hosts kids Christmas giveaway
HEALTH Minister Dr Michael Darville hosted his annual kids Christmas giveaway on Friday. The Tall Pines MP welcomed parents and children to the event to receive gifts, foods, and entertainment.
Man charged with Village Road murder
A MAN is behind bars after he allegedly shot and killed a man outside a bar on Village Road last weekend.
Three face drugs and ammunition charges
THREE MEN were granted $7,500 bail on Friday after they were allegedly found with a quantity of dangerous drugs and ammunition that police suspected them of trying to sell.
Woman accused of stabbings granted bail
A 44-year-old woman was granted $5,000 bail yesterday after she was accused of stabbing two other woman at a bar in the Grove community last week.
Man accused of molesting 12-year-old girl
A 23-year-old is locked behind bars after he allegedly molested a 12-year-old girl twice this month.
DIANE PHILLIPS: When bad things happen to good people
A young man with a college degree, good job, solid marriage and a six-year-old daughter is about to start a gofundme page.
EDITORIAL: Despite record tourism, many are still in need
THREE years ago, The Tribune’s front page said it in clear terms.
Hitting Gov’t deficit target ‘increasingly complicated’
The Government will find it “increasingly complicated” to hit this year’s 75 percent deficit-slash target, a major global bank has warned, while predicting this will “shift the debate back to tax reform”.
URCA’s BPL fuel tariff review ‘sounds bit odd’
The Opposition’s leader yesterday asserted “it sounds a bid odd” that regulators now plan to examine the lawfulness of Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) fuel charges having previously approved them.
Small Business Act: ‘Let’s close the deal’
A small business advocate is pledging to “close the deal” on legislation to advance the sector’s interests in 2024, adding: “This is my last year in pushing for this Act.”
Prove services exports deserve VAT-free rating
Bahamian accountants must prove audit and other services they provide to financial services entities are “for purposes outside” the jurisdiction to obtain VAT-free treatment, the tax authorities have ruled.
Don’t leave fiscal change until ‘things getting dicey’
The Bahamas must not leave the need for any fiscal adjustments to the stage where “things get a bit dicey”, a governance reformer advocated yesterday in backing the IDB.
Judge allows Shiver to stay with parents in US
AN American woman accused of plotting to kill her husband had her bail terms varied so she could move to her parent’s home in Alabama, United States, as she awaits trial in the Supreme Court in March.
So many are still in need
DOZENS slept in their cars overnight on Thursday, awaiting food vouchers from the Fox Foundation’s 9th annual Christmas giveback.
Underwater photographer calls to regulate chumming
A POPULAR underwater photographer joined calls to regulate chumming following a shark attack that killed Lauren Erickson Van Wart, 44, two weeks ago as she paddle-boarded three-quarters of a mile off Sandals Resort.
‘I WAS VICTIM OF SEX ATTACK IN DETENTION’: Woman claims assault by Immigration officer - and says son was beaten too
A PREGNANT Jamaican woman claimed she was sexually assaulted in immigration custody and continually abused after complaining about an officer’s actions. She claimed an officer touched her sexually without her consent.
Pratt and Newman national champions
The 2023 Giorgio Baldacci Open National Tennis Championships saw Simone Pratt and Baker Newman claim the championship hardware for the women’s and men’s divisions respectively.
Minister ‘confident’ swimming complex will be ready for CARIFTA
EXCITEMENT is slowly building for the 2024 CARIFTA Aquatics Championships to be hosted in Nassau, Bahamas March 28 to April 7.
DR KENT BAZARD – Parenting a young athlete in today’s world
PARENTING a child athlete is a multifaceted challenge that requires more than just sideline support. As a parent and a sports medicine professional, I’ve experienced and witnessed the hurdles and joys of this journey.
Roadmasters Running Club presents $5,000 to Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group, Md Patient Navigation Services
BAHAMAS Roadmasters Running Club (BRRC), is pleased to present part proceeds from their 11th annual Bahamas Half Marathon & 10K Race Series to Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group, and MD Patient Navigation Services. Each received the amount of $5000.
Keep me safe ‘til the storm passes by
In the dark of the midnight have I oft hid my face while the storm howls above me, and there’s no hiding place.
Christmas time and no turkey?
Treasury gives you a massive allowance $100,000.00+ a year and you cheap you don’t give me anything? Haven’t seen you since September 2021!
Retired Boxers Association
Kindly allow me space in your column to reintroduce the Retired Boxers Association aka RBA Boxing Hall of Fame and Museum to the Boxing fraternity and the public at large.
Man charged with stealing $5k of cigarettes from shop
A MAN was ordered to pay $5,000 bail after being accused of a shop break-in in Eleuthera that led to the theft of more than $5,000 worth of cigarettes.
Two men charged with robbing a man at gunpoint remanded
TWO men were sent to prison yesterday after they allegedly robbed a man at gunpoint in the South Beach area last week.
Man accused of injuring a man with a sword gets bail
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after he allegedly injured a man with a sword in Nassau Village last week.
IAN FERGUSON: How companies can get into the Christmas spirit
Christmas is finally and officially here. A time of joy, celebration, food and festivities. The most effective and successful companies are continually finding ways to give back through corporate social responsibility as well as spreading Christmas cheer to employees. This week’s column focuses on some last-minute suggestions for how small businesses can participate in the holiday spirit.
Sky diving provider burning $8,400 monthly in wait to become licensed
A skydiving excursion provider yesterday said it is burning through $8,400 per month on renting a plane it cannot use as it battles to obtain the necessary licences and permits.
Bahamians urged to guard against ransomware surge
A Bahamas-based cloud services provider yesterday warned consumers and businesses to on their guard for ransomware attacks as there is a "noticeable spike" during Christmas.
Bahamas invests $400k in first livestock feed mill for 40 years
Bahamian agriculture's push to reduce the country's $1bn annual food import bill has been boosted by the Government's $400,000 acquisition of the first new animal feed mill in 40 years.
Thursday, December 21
East GB MP and residents call on govt to repair seawall destroyed by Dorian
KWASI Thompson, MP for East Grand Bahama, has called on the government to restore the seawall in High Rock.
Govt to take ‘aggressive’ approach to building airports, says Romer
THE construction of some Family Island airports is set to be completed by 2025 as the government takes an “aggressive” approach to the building process, according to Dr Kenneth Romer, deputy director general of the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation.
STATESIDE: Could Colorado Supreme Court ruling lead to the end of Trump’s campaign?
IT looks like history may be about to repeat itself in the US presidential election. A Colorado Supreme Court decision on Tuesday makes it quite likely that, as in 2000, the highest American court will be obliged to issue a decision that could determine the outcome of next year’s vote.
FRONT PORCH: ‘Until then it is still night’
THERE is an allegory that serves as a prism for some of the light and meaning of the Incarnation and Christmas: “An old Hasidic rabbi asked his pupils how they could tell when the night had ended and day begun, for daybreak is the time for certain holy prayers. ‘Is it,’ proposed one student, ‘when you can see an animal in the distance and tell whether it is a sheep or a dog?’ ‘No,’ answered the rabbi.
Police Traffic Division looking to introduce red light camera technology
THE top traffic cop said yesterday that police want to introduce red light camera technology to improve the enforcement of road rules, but additional dialogue between police and lawmakers is needed to determine if the technology will be embraced.
EDITORIAL: As we celebrate, don’t forget the hurting
IN yesterday’s Tribune, columnist Alicia Wallace reminded us that Christmas can be a hard time for some people.
Quaker brand granola cereals recall over potential salmonella contamination
A PRODUCT recall has been issued for granola bars and granola cereals from the Quaker Oats Company.
Participants of Bahamasair plane design competition upset over chosen artwork
THE decoration of a new Bahamasair plane sparked complaints from artists who submitted designs for a competition.
Deficits overwhelm growth six-fold in driving debt hike
Weak economic growth has been overwhelmed by the six-fold greater impact of surging fiscal deficits and failed to keep The Bahamas’ debt ratios in check, a multilateral lender is asserting.
Total $1.4bn SOE debts pose ‘a significant risk’
Total debts owed by the Government’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have hit $1.4bn to become “a significant risk” by exceeding 10 percent of annual economic output, the IDB has warned.
FTX settlement ‘proves naysayers were wrong’
The FTX settlement shows The Bahamas has “beaten expectations” and “proven the doom and gloom naysayers wrong” over the crypto exchange’s collapse, a well-known businessman argued yesterday.
URCA proposes 20% expansion in budget
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is for the second consecutive year proposing a major hike in its operating budget via a near-20 percent increase for 2024.
‘Whatever is needed’ will be spent on CARIFTA costs
YOUTH, Sports, and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg said the government would spend whatever is necessary to make certain next year’s CARIFTA Aquatics Championships is “great”.
Blue Lagoon ferry back in service
TRANSPORT Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis said the Port Department has approved Blue Lagoon Island to restart its ferry services “subject to the revised operational protocols”.
Holiday heartaches for the families of those still missing
THIS Christmas season is anything but merry for families still hoping for the return of their missing relatives. Kyle Carey and Daniel Padilla, Jr, disappeared on May 11 and October 2, respectively.
LEFT STRANDED BY BAHAMASAIR: Passengers stuck without help or place to stay - and Romer says ‘no excuse’
BAHAMASAIR passengers travelling to North Eleuthera were stranded in Rock Sound on Monday after they were forced to disembark their plane without warning or help with accommodations.
CARIFTA countdown
The countdown is now officially on for the 2024 CARIFTA Aquatics Championships slated to be held right here on home soil at the Betty Kelly-Kenning Aquatic Centre March 28 to April 7.
Tennis players advance to the finals
FOUR players advanced to the 2023 Giorgio Baldacci Open National Tennis Championships yesterday at the National Tennis Centre (NTC), in addition to qualifying to represent The Bahamas at the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup tournaments.
I-BAP collaborates with Electric City Bombers to host Christmas camp
WITH 2023 now winding down, I-BAP (Bahamas Athletic Pride) in collaboration with New York’s Electric City Bombers intends to host a pop-up Christmas camp this Saturday at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Why corporate income tax?
Why is the Governor of Central Bank with his past experience as Financial Secretary promoting a Corporate Income Tax?
Is our law enforcement impotent?
In many churches over the air waves we are hearing the words of Christmas Carols proclaiming Peace On Earth, but doubt we will hear those sentiments on our streets — nearly 100 murders this year. We are no longer shocked...almost a daily occurrence and seems Law Enforcement totally impotent.
Our passive response is concerning
The Bahamian business community now appears alarmingly complacent in the face of escalating government overreach. It’s as though we’ve surrendered our spirit of defiance, meekly swallowing whatever directives and mandates are imposed upon us by policymakers. This worrying trend of passivity, where voices that used to question and challenge now remain eerily silent, is reshaping our business landscape.
GBPA Workers Union concerned over safety and insurance for all at Grand Bahama Shipyard
COREY Cartwright, president of the Grand Bahama Port Authority Workers Union, expressed concern about an industrial accident involving a contract worker at the Grand Bahama Shipyard.
Three years jail for woman in $30k vehicle import scam
A WOMAN was ordered to spend three years in prison yesterday after she failed to repay almost $30,000 in a vehicle import scam in 2020.
Man accused of injuring two women in Exuma granted bail
A MAN was granted bail after he was accused of injuring two women at a restaurant in Exuma and violently resisting arrest last weekend.
Man held accused of having unlicenced gun a second time
A MAN was sent to prison until the new year after facing a gun-related charge less than three months after being charged with a similar offence.
Man given ankle monitor over housebreaking charge
A MAN was granted $5,000 bail after being accused of a recent housebreaking in New Providence.
Wednesday, December 20
ALICIA WALLACE: Christmas is not the same for everyone - share love, kindness and understanding
THE holiday season is one we generally expect to be full of good cheer. Even through their complaints, people happily spend money — often more than they can really afford — on festivities, from decorations and food to gifts and events.
EDITORIAL: Should the name of Nassau’s historic hotel change?
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet.” So says William Shakespeare as Juliet longs for Romeo though finds that it “tis but thy name that is my enemy”.
Bahamas signs joint statement condemning Houthi rebels attacks on Red Sea Shipping
THE Bahamas signed a joint statement with other countries condemning Houthi rebels in Yemen for their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.
Number of unregistered daycare facilities has risen since pandemic, says education director
EDUCATION Director Dominique McCartney-Russell said unregistered daycare facilities surged after the COVID-19 pandemic –– including one where a dog attacked a child in Grand Bahama last week.
Pratt appointment to Immigration director likely to go to Industrial Tribunal, says Thompson
THE immigration union’s dispute over the Davis administration’s appointment of William Pratt as director of the Department of Immigration will likely be addressed by the Industrial Tribunal after two Department of Labour conciliation meetings failed to resolve the matter, according to new Labour Director Howard Thompson.
Janet Jackson concert coming to Atlantis Resort in April 2024
JANET Jackson is coming to The Bahamas. The iconic entertainer will perform on Casuarina Beach at Atlantis on April 27, 2024, the resort said yesterday. The performance will launch its next Music Making Waves concert series.
Belles of the Ball – Scotia Wealth Management’s 65th anniversary gala ball
Members of Nassau’s banking community turned out in all of their finery as Scotia Wealth Management celebrated it’s 65th anniversary with a gala ball at Baha Mar last Saturday.
Commission asset turnover as part of FTX’s settlement
FTX Bahamas’ liquidators have agreed to use “commercially reasonable efforts” to ensure some $426m worth of digital assets held by the Securities Commission are transferred to their US counterparts.
Abaco residents renew water billing complaints
An Abaco resident says she has been hit with a $1,300 Water & Sewerage Corporation bill despite being absent from her property for over three years after it was devastated by Hurricane Dorian.
Business Licence audit can’t be ‘too draconian’
A Bahamian accountant yesterday warned against the enhanced Business Licence verification process becoming “too draconian” and urged that some flexibility be provided on a “case by case” basis.
Gov’ts $544m undershoot on Dorian and COVID-19
The two greatest crises in modern Bahamian history resulted in the Government’s 2019-2020 revenues falling $544.1m short of their target, its leading fiscal watchdog has affirmed.
‘Landmark breakthrough’: FTX Bahamas strikes new Ray deal
FTX’s Bahamian liquidators yesterday hailed the settlement reached with their US counterpart as “a landmark breakthrough” that will avoid “years of protracted litigation” which would cost creditors dearly.
Seasonal rush expected at LPIA
LYNDEN Pindling International Airport officials urge travellers to pack patience for this weekend, which they expect to be the busiest of the year, surpassing the number of travellers last year.
Reparations Committee chair calls for hotel name change
MANY welcomed the reopening of the British Colonial Hotel on Monday, but some, including the Bahamas National Reparations Committee chair Dr Niambi Hall Campbell-Dean, believe the hotel should have dropped its name.
JOHNSON BANNED AND FNM GAGGED: Judge’s decision given after recent altercation involving vice chairman
FREE National Movement Secretary General Serfent Rolle said a Supreme Court judge yesterday banned FNM vice chairman Richard Johnson from attending the party’s meetings or visiting its headquarters or precincts until any further court order.
Focus on cost of living issues
LET me state from the outset that I am a dyed-in-the-wool capitalist. I do not subscribe to the malevolent Marxist school of thought which is diametrically opposed to the Judeo-Christian worldview.
Christmas tree still half-done
Only our national Christmas tree doesn’t! Each morning this past week on my drive through town, I convince myself that what should be our beacon of beauty will have been sorted out, but, lo and behold, it still stands half decorated. Are the authorities seriously going to leave our national Christmas tree looking like this?
Man charged with stealing scooter and cash granted bail
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of stealing a man’s scooter and extorting $200 cash from him last week.
Teen charged with stabbing another teen outside mall
A 17-year-old youth was accused of stabbing a 16-year-old boy multiple times outside the Mall at Marathon earlier this month.
Man ordered to pay $1,500 fine after admitting to having hemp
A MAN was fined $1,500 after admitting to having eight and a half ounces of Indian Hemp on him last week.
Man breaches bail while out on armed robbery charges
A MAN was fined $2,000 after admitting that he failed to charge his monitoring device while on bail for armed robbery.
Top players clash in semifinals today
Athletes turned in top performances to make a smooth transition into today’s semifinals at the Giorgio Baldacci Open Tennis National Championships. In yesterday’s quarterfinals round, the top seeds validated their rank by dropping their opponents.
BAAA Odd Distance Meet all set for Friday
THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) will get an early start to the track and field season beginning with the Odd Distance Meet scheduled for Friday at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
NPVA Recap: Panthers on a roll to close out the year
THE Caribbean Gas Panthers closed out the year with an unblemished record in the New Providence Volleyball Association (NPVA) standings after defeating the Set-sy Poppers at the DW Davis Gymnasium last week Friday.
Renewable investors tour Eleuthera plants
A group of potential investors yesterday toured Eleuthera power plants as the Government’s Family Island renewable energy sought to build momentum.
Gov’t procurement portal taking ‘positive’ direction
The Government’s online procurement portal is heading in a “positive” direction by providing timely updates on contract awards, a governance reformer said yesterday.
CBS: Online platform in 20% of Xmas sales
A Bahamian retailer yesterday said its e-commerce platform is generating 20 percent of total revenue this Christmas season.
Tuesday, December 19
PETER YOUNG: New initiative by Bahamas to combat climate change
TWO years ago at the UN’s Conference of the Parties on climate change, COP26 in Glasgow, Prime Minister Philip Davis delivered a memorably impressive speech. He spoke eloquently and in dramatic language about the potentially catastrophic effects of climate change and global warming on low-lying Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like his own, in particular as a result of rising ocean levels.
FACE TO FACE – A long journey upwards: Janet McKenzie earns ACP after 30 years of service
FOR the first time in the history of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, two women were promoted to the lofty position of Assistant Commissioner of Police at the same time.
Empowerment club holds annual Christmas Party
THE Boys and Girls empowerment club at LW Young held its annual Christmas party at the Fox Hill Community Centre, with Archdeacon Keith Cartwright discussing the purpose of Christmas with the students.
Cooper ‘disappointed’ that Ragged Island school not complete
EXUMA and Ragged Island MP Chester Cooper said he is disappointed that a public school in Ragged Island is incomplete, but expects its completion by Easter.
Embassy celebrates our shared story
THE US Embassy held an art competition for local students and twelve lucky winners won a $200 gift card and had their drawings featured in the embassy’s 2024 calendars.
EDITORIAL: Munroe at odds with PM on UN report
WHEN the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention reported on issues affecting the criminal justice system in this country, and with the facilities where people are locked up, we wrote that it was reiterating problems we already knew about.
Some retailers reporting a Christmas ‘boom’ with sales better than last year
SOME retailers report a boom in sales as people continue their last-minute shopping before Christmas.
Straw Business Persons Society president says ‘too costly to only sell authentic Bahamian products’
STRAW Business Persons Society president Rebecca Small defended the work of straw vendors, insisting it is too costly to only sell authentic Bahamian products.
Pinder confident govt committee will deal with growing shanty town in Abaco
CENTRAL and South Abaco MP John Pinder said he is confident the committee dealing with unregulated communities will tackle a growing Abaco shanty town in the first quarter of 2024.
American woman dies after diving expedition
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 75-year-old American woman visiting from Myrtle Grove, North Carolina, who died following a diving expedition.
Mario Carey Realty brings cheer to Centre for Deaf
STUDENTS at the Centre for the Deaf received an annual gift of Christmas cheer from Better Homes and Gardens Mario Carey Realty (MCR) Bahamas.
Dorian and COVID-19 cost Bahamas one year’s GDP
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved doubling its crisis financing facility for The Bahamas to $200m after combined Dorian and COVID losses matched this nation’s annual economic output.
Bahamian ‘Russian roulette’ with 30% uninsured drivers
The Bahamas is “really playing Russian roulette on the road” with its citizens’ lives by failing to crack down on the estimated 25-30 percent of drivers who are uninsured, insurers warned yesterday.
British Colonial employs ‘stair step’ opening plan
The British Colonial’s general manager yesterday affirmed the resort is “being very conservative” following its re-opening so as not to “overwhelm our staff” with a sudden surge in visitor demand.
FTX Chapter 11 plan needs Bahamas deal
Plans to bring FTX out of bankruptcy protection in the US cannot be finalised without agreement with their Bahamian counterparts as “ongoing good faith negotiations” between the two sides continue.
No Xmas ‘shock’ over food prices
Super Value’s president yesterday said consumers “won’t be shocked” by food costs over the Christmas period as she voiced hope for price stability in 2024.
Cay Mills charged with a breach of bail terms
WELL-KNOWN social media personality and Abaco resident Cay Mills was sent to prison accused of breaching his bail conditions, according to a police official.
‘Unacceptable’ delay on ‘Ninety’ ruling, says judge
A SUPREME Court judge said he regretted the “unacceptable” and “inexcusable” length of time it took him to issue his judgement on Samuel “Ninety” Knowles’ legal action against government officials who surrendered him to the United States in 2006 before his habeas corpus application was heard in The Bahamas as scheduled.
British Colonial Hilton re-opens
DIGNITARIES cut the ribbon to reopen the renovated British Colonial Hotel yesterday after its two-year closure.
PM: UN detention report right but we have limited resources
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said legacy human rights issues affecting the criminal justice system highlighted in a recent United Nations report concern him.
‘JUDGES SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE’: Attorney General supports a disciplinary system for members of the judiciary
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said he supports introducing a disciplinary system for the judiciary, adding judges should be held accountable for misconduct like everyone else.
Celebrate life, love and the divine
One of my favourite images is seeing Jesus in His Mother’s arms.
Man charged with stealing and 24 breaches while on bail
A MAN was sent to prison yesterday after he allegedly breached his curfew 24 times this year while on bail for four counts of armed robbery.
Four Eleuthera teens charged with grievous harm of a youth
FOUR Eleuthera teenagers were accused of seriously injuring another juvenile on that island earlier this month.
Man charged with possession of hemp with intent to supply
A MAN was fined $6,500 yesterday after admitting to having $3,040 worth of marijuana products in his home last week.
‘Donnie’ gets Lifetime Achievement Award
Donald “Donnie’’ Martinborough, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Bahamas Realty, became the first Bahamian to be presented the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 52nd International Sunfish Class Association (ISCA) World Championship in Miami, Florida.
Giorgio Baldacci tennis quarters on today
THE Giorgio Baldacci Open National Tennis Championships got underway yesterday at the National Tennis Centre (NTC). After a busy day one, tennis action will pick up in the quarterfinals today.
BLTA Awards: Top players soak up spotlight
ATHLETES received top honours at the inaugural Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) Recognition Awards Ceremony on Saturday evening at the National Tennis Centre (NTC).
November Cup on par for Jan. 13
THE Albany Golf Community presented the Cancer Society of The Bahamas with a cheque for $106,125.35 which were proceeds from their last year’s November Cup Golf Tournament held at Albany’s Golf Course.
Bahamasair groundings force plane ‘wet leasing’
Bahamasair has entered into “wet leasing arrangements” with a US company to temporarily rent planes, and enlisted Western Air’s support, after several of its own aircraft were grounded by mechanical woes.
No Junkanoo bleachers complaints voiced - yet
Downtown Nassau businesses have not complained about Junkanoo bleachers impeding Christmas trade yet even though there is still “some room for improvement” over their set-up.
MP working to ‘mitigate’ Abaco water billing woe
An Abaco MP yesterday said he is working with the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) to alleviate consumer woes caused by back billing and mass disconnections.
Salvation Army sees Xmas donations fall
The Salvation Army yesterday revealed Christmas donations have declined this year despite launching collections at new locations with donor numbers remaining unchanged.
Monday, December 18
INSIGHT: Road repairs necessary but will the work go smoothly and without cost overruns?
RESIDENTS in New Providence may be thinking it’s déjà vu – with the announcement of a near-$100m road project.
INSIGHT: So how safe is your pension?
FORMER Tribune managing editor JOHN MARQUIS had his Bahamas pension blocked “without warning and for no good reason”. As he battles for its reinstatement, he asks what the implications might be for Bahamian pensioners and those expats who devoted their working lives to The Bahamas.
EDITORIAL: NIB pension issues - isolated or prevalent?
A FAMILIAR face makes a reappearance in today’s Insight section.
Minnis’ book details early life struggles and his determination
DR Hubert Minnis’ rags to riches story is familiar to anyone who paid attention to politics when he was leader of the opposition and prime minister.
Sir Franklyn: ‘Price deflation’s’ consumer confidence boost
A BISX-listed food retailer’s disclosure of “price deflation” in some product categories should inspire improved consumer confidence heading into 2024, a Bahamian businessman argued yesterday.
Cruise port: 4.2m projection beaten and 65 ships to come
Nassau Cruise Port’s top executive yesterday said the loss of three vessel calls on Friday due to bad weather is “not material” with the original full-year 4.2m passenger arrivals target already beaten.
Accountants: ‘Some wins’ on Business Licence verification
Accountants have secured “some wins” over enhanced Business Licence reporting through less intensive scrutiny that will be applied to companies below the $5m annual turnover threshold.
Man hospitalised with multiple injuries after he falls from tanker at Grand Bahama shipyard
A 23-year-old man is in hospital with multiple injuries after falling from a tanker at the Grand Bahama Shipyard on Saturday.
Recreational use of marijuana not included in draft legislation, says permanent secretary
A TOP health official has reiterated recreational marijuana use is not covered under current cannabis legislation.
Higgs says PHA will investigate Sandilands woman’s death before ministry follow-up
AN INVESTIGATION into the death of a woman in Princess Margaret Hospital after being transferred from Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre will be carried out by the Public Hospitals Authority before the Ministry of Health and Wellness has any involvement.
Water Corp losing 55% of Family Island supply
More than half the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s supply to Family Island customers never reaches the end-user, it has been revealed, resulting in a negative 306 percent operating loss margin.
Bahamasair apologises for weekend cancellations
BAHAMASAIR apologised over the weekend for flight delays and cancellations, which managing director Tracy Cooper attributed to the inclement weather.
JUDGE ASKED TO JAIL FORMER MP: Application to commit Lockhart to prison for ‘failure’ to refund $3m
A FORMER member of parliament and Supreme Court judge is facing an application to send him to prison after he allegedly failed to refund more than $3m his client gave his firm to hold in escrow.
Devaughn Robinson dominates, wins title
Despite the inclement weather, the Bahamas Professional Golfers Association’s National Golf Championships at the Ocean Club on Paradise Island over the weekend turned out to be the Devaughn Robinson show.
Hoopfest in Paradise turns out to be a real treat
EXCEPT for the constant interruption to wipe the moisture off the floor inside the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium, the second Hoopfest in Paradise turned out to be a real treat for both local and high school basketball players from the United States of America.
Edgecombe Jr, 18, has impressive showing at home
HOMECOMINGS are usually quite memorable, but for Valdez ‘VJ’ Edgecombe Jr, his return home to the Bahamas as one of the top ranked high school boys’ basketball players in the United States was extra special.
CI Gibson rattlers off to tournament in Las Vegas
IT’S Christmas time and the CI Gibson Rattlers are off on their usual trip to the United States to get some international exposure as they compete in another tournament in Las Vegas.
Four shooting incidents over weekend leave one dead and five hospitalised
Four shooting incidents over the weekend left one man dead and five hospitalised.
New ideas to curb shark attacks
Many years ago when the Bahamas was awakening to the issues of Nature and in particular our National Bird the White Crowned Pigeon, a great deal of effort was put into understanding these creatures, their movements and particularly their breeding habits.
In 50 years buy power has regressed
The Bahamas has just celebrated 50 years independence.
NHI’s electronic records give boost to patient care
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has partnered with an electronic records provider to enhance patient care and efficiency for the scheme’s 150,000 residents.
AML Foods set to ‘vigorously fight’ $1m unpaid VAT claim
AML Foods has pledged to “vigorously contest” the Government’s demand that it produce nearly $1m in “unpaid” VAT related to Grand Bahama’s port-Hurricane Dorian economic recovery zone (SERZ).
‘More improvements’ needed on Bahamas First’s Cayman health
Bahamas First says “more improvements” are required before the woes impacting its Cayman health portfolio are fully behind it as it unveiled profits of $2.2m for the quarter to end-September 2023.
Room supply ‘restrains’ 30% stopovers growth
The Deputy Prime Minister says The Bahamas will be “restrained” from consistently growing stopover visitor numbers by 30 percent if it fails to expand the supply of hotel and vacation rental rooms.
Rates remain unchanged
ActivTrades
After their recent record run, the international stock markets lacked further momentum at the end of last week. On Friday, investors lacked buying arguments on both sides of the Atlantic and trading was experiencing a lacklustre day all around.
Friday, December 15
World-class ballet comes to the Bahamas: An ‘Iconique’ performance awaits
Bahamian ballet enthusiasts and those who wish to learn more about the artistic dance are in for a special treat. Next February, the world-renowned UK-based Covent Garden Dance Company presents “Iconique”.
Family seek help over missing 65-year-old woman
The family of a 65-year-old missing woman is concerned for their loved one’s safety and is asking for the public’s assistance in locating her.
Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative brings Christmas joy to young mothers
THE Bahamas Women’s Health Initiative hosted its fifth annual Christmas luncheon on Friday, feeding over 40 young mothers enrolled in the Adolescent Health Clinic and PACE School.
US woman accused of plotting to kill husband seeks permission to change address
AN American woman accused of plotting to kill her husband is once again seeking the court’s permission to change her address.
DIANE PHILLIPS: The Lessons My Father Taught Me
Today is December 14. You’d think I would be used to it by now. But I am not. Every year, the date catches me and twists my insides around like a pretzel with a stomachache. It is the anniversary of my father’s death, December 14, 1966, 67 years ago.
Reassessing needs is cause of delay of Social Services food vouchers
RECIPIENTS of Department of Social Services food vouchers will get them in time for the Christmas season despite delays, government officials said yesterday.
Governor backs corporate income tax if ‘framing right’
The Central Bank’s governor has given guarded backing for a corporate income tax amid private sector calls for the Government to avoid a “piecemeal” approach to this reform.
Atlantis touts $20bn visitor spend impact
Atlantis guests have accounted for almost one-third of The Bahamas’ total air arrivals during the past 25 years, a senior executive said yesterday, while generating more than $20bn in visitor spending.
Firms ‘doomed to fail’ on Business Licence audit
The Chamber’s newly-elected chairman has voiced concern that some companies are “doomed to fail” their upcoming full Business Licence audit because they have been given inadequate time to prepare.
‘Huge inconvenience’ on BOB San Salvador close
San Salvador businesses yesterday voiced concern over the timing and uncertainty created by Bank of The Bahamas’ “temporary closure” of the island’s only bank branch ahead of the Christmas holiday.
Grand Bahama daycare where one-year-old boy was bitten by dog closed as Ministry investigates
EDUCATION Permanent Secretary Lorraine Armbrister said the Pre-school and Daycare Council is investigating a Grand Bahama daycare where a one-year-old boy was bitten and injured by two dogs.
Police reward girl who broke-up fight between two school girls
AN eleventh-grade CI Gibson Senior High School student said she broke up a fight that went viral last week because it was the right thing to do despite risks to her well-being.
Man pleads guilty to stealing $1,200 in Junkanoo tickets, gets six months in jail
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison yesterday after admitting to stealing $1,200 worth of Junkanoo tickets earlier this week.
$25m air freight firm’s links to gaming boss
The company charged with the $25m transformation of the Government’s air freight terminal has links to a web shop principal, Tribune Business can reveal.
‘It’s unreal’ says woman after fire destroys home
CAROLYN Lewis and her family lost their home of 30-plus years in an inferno just two weeks before Christmas, leaving them vulnerable, emotional and uncertain about the future.
‘Fifty percent of cars in accidents are uninsured’
THE top traffic cop said it may be time to change laws so authorities can seize uninsured cars after finding that fifty percent of vehicles in accidents this year were uninsured.
$98m to repair roads in Nassau
A $98m road paving programme will start next month to repair more than 50 miles of roads in New Providence in the first phase.
‘NO ONE TOLD US MY SISTER DIED’: Family ‘not notified’ as Sandilands patient fell ill and died at PMH
A FAMILY claims Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre failed to tell them about their loved one’s deteriorating health and admittance to Princess Margaret Hospital, where the woman died on December 5 without the comfort or awareness of her relatives.
Golfers brave the rain on first day of National Golf Championships
It was a major adjustment for many of the Bahamas’ professional golfers as they had to fight through the wind and the rain more so than they did their rivals on the Ocean Golf Club course yesterday.
Arnold Brando Bain dies at age 56
AS the announcer proclaimed quiet for “Mr Starter,” Arnold Brando Bain would get ready to crank up his gun to get the athletes in motion for the start of their track races at the Thomas A Robinson stadiums - old and new.
National Sports Authority to stage ‘A Baseball Christmas’
IN anticipation of what is expected to be a hectic season in 2024, the National Sports Authority is giving the general public a prelude with the staging of ‘A Baseball Christmas.”
Coaches ready for Hoopfest in Paradise
A NUMBER of the top high school teams from the United States of America (USA) made their arrival yesterday for the second Hoopfest in Paradise High School Basketball Tournament.
DR KENT BAZARD – CUTTING-EDGE STRATEGIES FOR ATHLETIC RECOVERY
IN the dynamic world of sports, where the pursuit of excellence pushes athletes to their limits, the art of recovery has become as crucial as the game itself. Join us as we take a deep dive into the latest advancements in sports medicine, uncovering innovative strategies and technologies designed to propel athletes toward faster and more effective recovery from intense training and competitions.
Grand Bahama missing from Hoopfest in Paradise
THE 2023 Hoopfest in Paradise High School Basketball Tournament is all set to be one for the books with 10 teams scheduled to compete at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium on Friday and Saturday. The home teams are two squads from the New Providence private and public schools, leaving Grand Bahama on the outside looking in.
Mingoes start slow against Inter-Nassau, pull off 4-0 victory
THE University of The Bahamas men’s soccer team started slow against Inter-Nassau FC – 17 in their Bahamas Football Association match.
You inspire me
We all have people who inspire us. From family members to teachers, spiritual leaders, famous historians, and, yes, some politicians there are those who inspire us and make us want to do more.
Playing dirty
I am sceptical about the global climate issue as I follow our Prime Minister and his international counterparts crusade around the world while travelling in one of the worst climate change guilty parties - the airplane.
Man charged with attempted murder of another man at dock in Eleuthera
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after he allegedly attempted to kill another man at a dock in Eleuthera last weekend.
Two men charged with spree of armed robberies collectively stealing $2,000 cash
TWO men were sent to prison after they were accused of being involved in a spree of armed store robberies last month.
Woman pleads guilty to having large amount of marijuana cookies in her home fined $3,500
A WOMAN was fined $3,500 after admitting to having 51 marijuana-infused cookies in her house this week.
More Reloaded players to participate in Perfect Game Series Texas Challenge
THE Reloaded Baseball executive team, in a press release yesterday, announced the invite and pre-approved selection of more Reloaded players to participate in the Perfect Game (PG) 2023 Series Texas Challenge at Big League Dreams, League City, Texas December 27-31.
Thursday, December 14
STATESIDE: Biden firm on Ukraine support - but alternative peace solution needed
LAST week, US president Joe Biden gave an address to the country that appealed for Congressional passage of another big package of military aid to Ukraine. Fox News, Newsmax and the more liberal cable outlets all interrupted normal programming to broadcast Biden’s mid-day remarks. The US continues to double down on Ukraine and on resistance to Vladimir Putin’s armed Russian invaders.
FRONT PORCH: A Deep Crisis of Culture
A dear friend was asked after her public service as a contract officer whether she was disillusioned by government. Her response: “I now have a greater appreciation of the complexities of government work. But after working in government I am more disillusioned about the Bahamian people!”
Lewis calls for more funding to develop local sports talent during anti-doping bill debate
CENTRAL Grand Bahama MP Iram Lewis said more funds should be allocated to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture to develop local talent.
Cleare responds to UN Working Group criticisms over Detention Centre
AFTER the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WAGD) criticised the Department of Corrections for not allowing conjugal visits since the COVID-19 pandemic, acting Corrections Commissioner Doan Cleare countered yesterday that video calls are common and have generally replaced in-person visits.
Pintard calls on govt to pay retired officers ‘denied millions in gratuity'
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard renewed calls for the government to pay hundreds of retired police officers who claim they have been wrongfully denied millions in gratuity.
EDITORIAL: Former PM Ingraham gets to the point
LIKE him or not, it has to be admitted that former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham never shies away from what needs to be said.
Conservation advocates call on Bahamas govt to join Pacific island nations on oil non-proliferation treaty
CONSERVATION advocates are calling on the government of The Bahamas to join Pacific Island nations, as well as Antigua and Barbuda, among other jurisdictions, international entities and prominent individuals, in endorsing the initiative for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Minnis presents Ingraham with a copy of his book - ‘The Power of Determination’
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis presented a copy of his new book, “The Power of Determination”, to Hubert Ingraham yesterday.
Ex-minister blasts ‘outrageous’ Business Licence audit fines
A former Cabinet minister yesterday slammed the “outrageous” fines for Business Licence audit non-compliance even as government officials questioned why there was so much private sector anxiety.
Air freight terminal ‘disgrace’ set for $25m transformation
The Ministry of Finance’s top official yesterday assured there will be “a very minimal” cost impact to Bahamian imports from a $25m deal to overhaul “a disgrace” of an air freight terminal.
Business Licence audits to impact ‘less than 1%’
The Ministry of Finance’s top official yesterday challenged why Business Licence audits for firms with turnover over $5m is “posing a great difficulty” given that less than 1 percent of all companies are impacted.
Minnis warns on increased New Year air import costs
An ex-prime minister yesterday warned Bahamians will have to pay increased costs to import goods via air freight from New Year’s Day due to a $25m outsourcing deal struck by the Government.
Justifiable killing ruled in Adderley shooting case
A CORONER’S Court jury ruled yesterday that police were justified in killing Royal Bahamas Defence Force leading seaman Rodney Adderley, Jr, on Dunmore Avenue on January 10, 2022.
Dad may seek legal action after dog bites son
A GRAND Bahama father said he is considering legal action after his one-year-old son was bitten and injured by a dog in Grand Bahama.
Three men shot, two are dead
TWO men were shot dead in Yellow Elder yesterday, leaving Mount Moriah MP McKell Bonaby in tears after he likened them to a younger son and brother.
INGRAHAM: REBELS WANT NEW LEADER – Former PM backs Pintard – while standing next to likeliest rival Minnis
IN a rare and fascinating joint interview with Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday, Hubert Ingraham said “rebels” in the Free National Movement are unnecessarily pushing the party to hold a convention, but he still has confidence in the team Michael Pintard leads and does not want FNMs to be distracted.
Six teams hoist trophies
35TH FATHER MARCIAN PETERS INVITATIONAL BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
Six teams hoisted their championship trophies in the 35th Father Marcian Peters Basketball Tournament yesterday evening at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium.
Teams announced for Hoopfest in Paradise
AFTER a successful hosting of the inaugural Hoopfest in Paradise High School Basketball Tournament in 2022, the basketball extravaganza has returned for its second year, this time with more teams added to the fold.
Local Italian community supports the Eleuthera Sailing Academy
NOW a tradition, members of the resident Italian community come together each year to donate their time and efforts at the International Culture, Wine and Food Festival (ICWFF).
Honouring our top athletes
ROADRUNNERS TRACK CLUB’S 23RD ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET @ SANDALS
A number of student athletes from the Roadrunners Track Club were honoured on Saturday night at Sandals Royal Bahamian as the club hosted its 23rd Annual Awards & Presentation Banquet.
Try this experiment, share love
Making a list and checking it twice might be a notion popularized by a certain holiday jingle, but too many frustrated and annoyed Bahamians seem to be preoccupied with lists of legitimate grievances, even at this festive time of year.
Rich need to pay like the rest of us
I appreciate the editor allowing me to speak truth to power without fear or favour. Too many of us sit idly by and have a problem with what’s being said but need help to gather the courage to say something. These same people would be the first to complain about anything and criticise everyone who steps up to shine a light on the hypocrisy. We are too busy calling wrong, right, and right wrong because of who is talking.
Man accused of firing on three police granted bail
A MAN allegedly engaged three police officers in a gunfight in Bain Town last week.
Four granted bail after they allegedly threatened man and stole his phone
TWO men and two women were granted bail yesterday after they allegedly threatened a man with death and stole his phone by force.
American tourist was granted conditional discharge after being found with marijauna
AN American tourist admitted to having marijuana on his person while visiting Parliament Street earlier this week.
Workplace confidentiality key to corporate success
Workplace confidentiality is important as it helps manage disputes, ensures the security of delicate information, promotes loyalty, protects clients and prevents crime and discrimination. Confidentiality is often assured under a company’s policies, and therefore anyone who breaches the agreement is liable to face legal action.
Non-profit reveals 36% fall in distributed meals
The Bahamas Feeding Network (BFN) yesterday said corporate donations have dropped-off noticeably since the COVID pandemic even though one in every eight Bahamians is thought to be living in poverty.
Royal Caribbean says PI project is 'near finish line'
Royal Caribbean's senior Bahamas executive yesterday said its Paradise Island project is "near the finish line" on obtaining the necessary approvals with a Heads of Agreement now being finalised.
Gov't urged to move on bus fare increase
Bus drivers yesterday said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) needs to just get on with increasing jitney fares rather than delay any decision until the New Year.
Hurricane Hole developer takes on Briland project
Hurricane Hole’s developer has been hired to manage a $200m resort and marina project on Harbour Island with effect from January 2024.
Wednesday, December 13
Two toddlers found unresponsive in swimming pool
Police have reported that two toddlers, aged one and three-years-old, are in critical condition after they were found unresponsive in a swimming pool in the Tropical Gardens community on Wednesday.
ALICIA WALLACE: End hypocrisy over human rights reforms
SUNDAY, December 10, was Human Rights Day, with the theme of Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All (with italics indicating the emphasis on “all”). It marked 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
EDITORIAL: Should murder accused seek safety behind bars?
WE are in a very strange situation in this country right now.
Infant boy attacked by dog in a Grand Bahama daycare
A one-year-old boy was attacked by a dog at a daycare facility in Grand Bahama on Monday, prompting a police investigation.
Bahamian law enforcement working with US authorities to curb human smuggling
COMMISSIONER of Police Clayton Fernander said human smuggling is big business, but Bahamian law enforcement is working closely with US counterparts to curb the practice.
Pinder says industrialised countries are ‘obligated to vulnerable, non-emitting countries’ over climate crisis
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said industrialised countries are obligated to vulnerable, non-emitting countries for their contribution to the climate crisis.
Genesis Academy donates to local charities
GENESIS Academy wished Merry Christmas to four local charities yesterday by giving them donations.
‘Severe penalties’ fear on Business Licence audits
The Chamber’s newly-elected chairman last night voiced “serious concern” that firms may be exposed to “severe penalties” for Business Licence infractions due to inadequate time to ready for full audits.
Residents ‘won’t let guard down’ on hotel expansion
Residents in Tropical Gardens and Gambier Heights yesterday pledged they will “not let our guard down” even though a controversial planning application has been placed in the “pending file”.
Royal Caribbean: ‘We’re exploring future projects’
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines yesterday confirmed it “continues to explore future projects” with its interest in acquiring Freeport’s Xanadu hotel hailed as a move that can attract other investors.
Climate change loss fund couldn’t even cover Dorian
A Bahamian environmental advocate yesterday said there is “no way” that the $700m pledged thus far to the climate change ‘loss and damage’ fund is sufficient to even cover this nation’s needs.
Central Bank: 1,250% digital asset capital not ‘excessive’
The Central Bank yesterday rejected assertions it is being “excessive” in requiring licensees to hold 12.5 times’ the amount of capital involved to back trades of non-stablecoin digital assets.
PM: Pledge on climate fight by wealthy countries not enough
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the wealthiest countries in the world, including the United States of America and China, did not pledge enough to the loss and damage fund COP28 delegates agreed to establish during a recent meeting of the major climate conference in Dubai.
Straw vendors struggling despite record tourism rise
ALTHOUGH the country is hitting tourism records, some straw vendors say they are struggling.
‘Munroe’s UN response ridiculous’, says Alicia Wallace
HUMAN rights advocate Alicia Wallace ripped National Security Minister Wayne Munroe’s response to the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention’s (WGAD) report about this country’s detention systems, calling it “ridiculous” in its “unnecessary and inappropriate defensiveness”.
Rained off? Burna Boy postponed
PROMOTERS of a concert starring Burna Boy announced the event’s postponement yesterday, citing inclement weather.
MAN BEGS ‘LET ME BACK INTO PRISON’: Commissioner praise for suspect who asked to cancel bail after shooting
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander wants more people accused of serious crimes to follow the example of Anthon Munroe, a murder suspect who asked a judge last week to cancel his bail because he felt unsafe.
Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy ends the year on a high note
THE Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy closed out the year on a high note with a drive, chip and putt end-of-year celebration at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s practice facility on Saturday.
Darvinique Red-Line Athletics’ Most Outstanding Athlete
HURDLES specialist Darvinique Dean emerged on top of the class of 2023 as the Red-Line Athletics’ Most Outstanding Athlete.
Bassai Bahamas karate-dojo training seminar a success
THE Bassai Bahamas Karate-Do hosted a karate training seminar spearheaded by chief instructor for Japan Karate-Do International sensei Yasuyoshi Saito on Saturday at the St Gregory’s Anglican Church Hall.
Consolidated Water backs Mario Ford Baseball
MARIO Ford Baseball participants joined over 200 youngsters in excitement during the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby Week.
Boy Scouts; please lower the volume
I could have written this letter six years ago; however, I have been reluctant to do so in order not to tarnish the good reputation enjoyed by the Scout Association of the Bahamas in this country.
Bonamy hands over command of Grand Bahama to ACP Shanta Knowles
RETIRING Assistant Commissioner of Police Bernard BK Bonamy, Jr, officially turned over command of the Grand Bahama District to Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles yesterday.
Teen admits to stabbing another youth outside Mall
A 16-year-old boy admitted to stabbing another teenager multiple times while they were standing outside the Mall at Marathon earlier this month.
Man pleads not guilty to being found with firearm
A MAN was granted bail after he was allegedly found with a loaded gun in Pinewood Gardens following a brief police chase.
Man gets more than two years for three break-ins in Andros
A 51-year-old man was sentenced to two and a half years in prison after admitting to a series of house break-ins in Andros over a period of a year.
Forensic pathologist testifies that Adderley was killed by a bullet to his heart
A FORENSIC pathologist testified that Royal Bahamas Defence Force leading seaman Rodney Adderley, Jr, died from a bullet wound to the heart.
Event planners enjoy uptick for Christmas
Event planners yesterday said they are “really busy” for the upcoming Christmas season due to corporate clients sponsoring multiple activities.
Poor utilities spark bad tourist reviews
A Family Island hotelier says poor utility services have resulted in negative guest reviews of their Bahamian vacation experience.
Golfers Robinson and Riley have eyes on national title
Devaughn Robinson and Cameron Riley are both coming home with the same goal in mind. They want to win the prestigious Bahamas Professional Golfers Association’s National Championship title and earn the rights to represent the Bahamas at the two Korn Ferry Golf Tour events in Exuma and Abaco in January.
Tuesday, December 12
FACE TO FACE: Krista Barr-Bastian encourages all women to ‘push powerfully’
IF you are a woman feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by life, there is a Christmas angel looking out for you. Krista Barr-Bastian knows what it is to feel as if she is losing the will to fight back when what she really wants to do, deep down, is to win at life.
PETER YOUNG: UK COVID inquiry - useful or pointless?
THE British government’s public inquiry in to the COVID-19 pandemic is now under way. Local reaction so far has been mixed. Critics are calling it a total waste of time and money that will end up as an “appalling establishment sham”. But others believe it is essential to conduct a comprehensive examination of what happened in order to identify and take account of policy failures.
EDITORIAL: Exciting news for GB, as long as locals benefit from it
IN XANADU did Royal Caribbean a stately pleasure dome decree.
Correctional officers with pending promotions will be back paid, says Munroe
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said correctional service officers with pending promotions would receive back pay dating to 2020.
‘The whole of the inside of my home is wrecked’ – Homeowner complains over unfinished roof repairs provided by Urban Renewal programme
A BENEFICIARY of the Urban Renewal Small Homes Repair programme claimed a contractor failed to complete repairs to his house, which now has a collapsing, leaking roof.
Bahamas suffers 3,000 gap over trademark applications
Bahamians made 3,000 more trademark protection applications abroad than at home during the five years to 2022, it has been been revealed, with government income from the sector "stagnant" for a decade.
Compliance chief loses bid to block grilling by ex-boss
A broker/dealer's former compliance chief has failed in his bid to prevent attorneys acting for his ex-boss from cross-examining him over his answers to 74 questions posed by US federal regulators.
Gov't patent earnings down 44% in decade
The Government's earnings from trademark and patent applications nosedived by 44 percent over past decade as The Bahamas' "loss of competitiveness" on intellectual property safeguards intensified.
LPIA operator leaves its COVID debt woe behind
The Bahamas' major airport continues to leave its COVID debt woes behind it with the coverage ratio stipulated by its lenders now healthier than it has even been since the pandemic started.
Nine Chief Superintendents promoted to Assistant Commissioner of Police
NINE chief superintendents of the Royal Bahamas Police Force have been promoted to assistant commissioner after their predecessors retired or took pre-retirement leave, with Shanta Knowles making history as the first woman officer in charge of the Northern Bahamas.
Stuart Cove: Chumming needs to be controlled
AN operations manager at Stuart Cove stopped short of calling for chumming to be outlawed, but said the practice needs to be controlled.
Video shows Adderley lunged at RBPF officer
BODY camera footage of the fatal police-involved shooting of Royal Bahamas Defence Force leading seaman Rodney Adderley, Jr, showed the marine lunged at an officer before he was shot.
Munroe criticises UN Working Group report on Detention Centre
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe criticised a United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention’s report about the country’s detention systems, saying the experts did not provide proof of many of their accusations about the country’s criminal justice system.
CEO denied Alana Major’s request as information ‘not received’
THE CEO of Family Guardian insisted yesterday that his company denied Alana Major’s request to work from home during her difficult pregnancy because she didn’t get back to them with sufficient information about her doctor’s advice.
CRUISE LINE PLAN FOR GB REVEALED: Xanadu hotel acquisition part of Royal Caribbean goal to transform harbour
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines is eyeing the potential acquisition of Freeport's long-closed Xanadu Beach Hotel as part of plans to develop a resort and water park destination, it can be revealed.
‘Greatest Show on Sand’
Organisers Todd Isaacs Jr and Lucius Fox stood on Montagu foreshore and looking over the crowd of spectators on hand on Saturday, just basked in their success at the end of the hosting of the sixth Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise.
Clarke continues to give back
EVEN though she’s pre-paring for a hectic year to complete her collegiate career as a member of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Blaz-ers women’s tennis team, Sydney Clarke is still all excited about giving back to the less fortunate here at home.
Inaugural Harbour Island doubles tennis tourney
THE inaugural Harbour Island Doubles Tennis Tournament was held this weekend at the Pink Sands Resort in beautiful Har-bour Island.
Ruled by slackness and mediocrity
As 2023 is heading towards its end, I truly wonder whether there is any hope that 2024 will bring Bahamians much-needed relief.
Four men on bail for murder charged with spree of shop break-ins in Grand Bahama
FOUR New Providence men on bail for murder were charged on Monday with a spree of shop break-ins and stealing incidents on Grand Bahama.
Man charged with armed robbery, stealing a wallet at gunpoint
A MAN was in custody yesterday after he allegedly robbed someone at gunpoint, taking their wallet containing $300.
Fifteen immigrants from Dominica charged with illegal embarkation
FIFTEEN immigrants were charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with breaching the Immigration Act.
Chamber elects new chairman
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) has elected Timothy Ingraham to serve a two-year term as its new chairman.
Seaplane operators in call for Out Island infrastructure
Seaplane operators are urging Family Island resorts to install ramps to facilitate their operations and increase airlift to remote destinations.
Seaplane service must be properly regulated
A Family Island hotelier yesterday backed the use of seaplanes to increase airlift once such services are properly zoned and regulated.
Artificial Xmas trees enjoy ‘overwhelming’ sales jump
Sales of artificial Christmas trees have been “overwhelming” in the run-up to the holiday season with the premium pre-lit variety also sparking demand, vendors said yesterday.
GB Chamber chief is ‘positive’ on island’s investment outlook
The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday said “positive” things are happening for the island’s economy despite strained relations between its quasi-governmental authority and the Government.
Monday, December 11
INSIGHT: Mission details for troops headed to Haiti still needed
THE prospect of Bahamian troops being deployed to Haiti edges ever closer – and yet we still do not really know what it is they will be doing.
‘National Youth Guard will train for climate resilience’
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the second cohort of the National Youth Guard will be trained in the fight for climate resilience and gain other employable skills.
EDITORIAL: We know the problems – what next?
THERE is a tendency at times for our nation to resist advice from outside bodies – but the criticisms levelled by the UN ought to be weighed appropriately, not least because they are reiterating problems we already know about.
Promoters of the Burna Boy concert defend ticket prices
PROMOTERS of the concert Burna Boy will headline said tickets are expensive because of the significance of the headline act.
Traffic fatalities see 50 percent rise for women, says Coleby-Davis
TRAFFIC fatalities involving women jumped by more than 50 per cent this year compared to 2022, Transport and Energy Minister Jobeth Coleby-Davis said.
VAT ‘outlier’ status in up to 25% marina fall
Marinas are warning the “hesitancy” of foreign yacht charters to consider The Bahamas because of its status as a VAT “outlier” has caused a 20-25 percent business drop-off for some properties.
Only fear Business Licence audit if ‘something to hide’
Only businesses “with something to hide” should fear having to submit audited financial statements over their Business Licence renewal, a prominent gas station operator believes.
Gov’t on deficit track even if 2024 ‘slides’
The Government’s prior year performance gives confidence that it remains on track to eliminate the fiscal deficit even if 2023-2024 “slides” from its original targets, a governance reformer said last night.
Govt seeking a new partner for Nazareth Centre
THE Catholic Church’s partnership with the government to run the Nazareth Centre will end this month, according to State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Myles Laroda.
BHS calls for end to ‘chumming’ practices
BAHAMAS Humane Society president Kim Aranha called on the public to stop chumming in public swimming areas in response to recent fatal shark attacks.
Abaco slams Water Corp’s Dorian back-billing cut-offs
Furious Abaco residents yesterday slammed the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s move to launch mass pre-Christmas disconnections over bills dating back four years to Hurricane Dorian as “very inhumane”.
‘Notable inequality’ as some families unable to afford bail
A UNITED Nations group is concerned that some families in The Bahamas cannot afford to pay for bail, creating inequality regarding access to bail.
UN REPORTS ON DETENTION FLAWS: Forced confessions and prison problems among issues noted by group
THE United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WGAD) offered a searing assessment of the country’s detention systems, finding numerous faults relating to how the criminal justice system treats people deprived of their liberty.
Breyias Dean emerges as the ‘Home Run King’
A year ago, Breyias Dean was walking around in awe as the stars came out to perform in the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise on Montagu Bay. On Saturday, the Miami Marlins’ minor league affiliate rookie had the stars watching him.
‘Buddy’ Hield and Pacers fall to Lakers
CHAVANO “Buddy” Hield, who was linked to trade rumours with the Los Angeles Lakers, watched as LeBron James and Anthony Davis put on a show to dismantle his Indiana Pacers to claim the first National Basketball Association’s In-Season Tournament title.
Baha Mar Cup raises $120,000
THE Baha Mar Cup returned to the sporting paradise for the fourth time at the Baha Mar Racquet Club over the weekend.
Tennis pros host successful kids’ clinic
THE fourth Baha Mar Cup presented by Mark Knowles culminated with a successful hosting of a tennis kids’ clinic at the Baha Mar Racquet Club on Sunday.
PM Davis commends Don’t Blink Derby organisers
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis commended organisers Todd Isaacs Jr and Lucius Fox for their continuation of the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise that has now grown to become a signature sporting event in December in the Bahamas.
Human Rights Day Message from the UN
“ALL human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”
Convention calls are for Minnis
Former Free National Movement Cabinet Minister Desmond Bannister’s calls for a convention in a recent letter to the FNM leadership team is a repeat of the Loretta Butler-Turner faction’s calls for a convention during the tumultuous tenure of Dr Hubert Minnis as Opposition leader in 2016.
Dock construction starts to pave way for $50m resort
WORK has begun on a $1.5m cargo shipping dock that will pave the way for construction of a resort development in the Exuma cays.
Pipe maker to hire 90 for $1m plant build-out
A NEWLY-created PVC pipe manufacturer has pledged to hire more than 90 persons for the construction of its $1m Grand Bahama plant that is due to be completed by September 2024.
Petro versus luxury
ActivTrades
The petro fortunes from the Middle East are reshaping the latest list of the wealthiest families in the world. Oil billionaires, luxury dynasties and industrial tycoons are part of the list of the greatest fortunes. For the first time in a long time, there was a change at the top.
Friday, December 8
UTEB calls for 'transparency' over new BTVI president
THE Union of Tertiary Educators of the Bahamas (UTEB) is calling for “transparency” on behalf of its members at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), regarding who has been chosen as the new BTVI president.
Rand Memorial Hospital reopens Fluoroscopy Room after five-year absence
The Rand Memorial Hospital reopened its Fluoroscopy Room on Friday after it was closed for several years.
$1,500 fine for drug possession
A MAN was fined $1,500 after admitting to having a pound of marijuana in his house last week.
Man charged with violation of bail conditions
A MAN was remanded to prison after he allegedly failed to charge his monitoring device while on bail for assault with a deadly weapon.
Man pleads guilty to causing harm, resisting arrest and deceit charges
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison after he admitted to injuring an officer responding to a burglary incident last week.
Four-year sentence for violent robbery
A MAN was sentenced to four years in prison on Friday after he admitted to stealing over $2,000 from two women in a violent robbery last week.
Man arrested after suspected marijuana found
A 38-year-old Abaco man was arrested on Thursday following the discovery of a large quantity of suspected drugs on that island.
Clubs & Societies December 8th, 2023
While people concentrate on the physical health of their children to ensure good growth, the mental health of children is just as important for their overall well-being.
DIANE PHILLIPS (written this week by Paula Welch): Tendering my resignation as an adult
DIANE Phillips is taking a rare break this week and letting her daughter, Paula Welch, step up to the keyboard with a little word magic of her own. Enjoy.
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION – Cultivating hope and effective community problem-solving strategies
IF you are like me, you may feel that our current daily feed of media reports covers a significant amount of bad news. It is important to pay attention to and stay informed about these daunting reports, which provide a window to experiences of conflict and suffering. Yet, while we can observe these problems and potentially feel a sense of helplessness, I also want to discuss how a commitment to continuous learning can provide possibilities of hope in troubling times.
EDITORIAL: With a little help from our friends
THE restoration of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse in Hope Town, Abaco, is an unqualified success.
Minister says sorry for Junkanoo ticket difficulty
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg apologised to those who could not get premium tickets for the upcoming Boxing Day parade because of limited seating on Bay Street.
PM: Renewable plan clear strategy
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the government’s plan to develop renewable energy on Family Islands is a “clear economic strategy” to give Bahamians affordable power.
Food programme still being probed
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said police are still investigating the COVID-19 food programme the Minnis administration launched, adding police recovered “matters” unrelated to the programme.
A landmark reborn
THE iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse in Hope Town, Abaco, was officially re-opened yesterday after months of renovation following Hurricane Dorian.
Gov’t wage bill’s $68m jump ‘not annual norm’
The Ministry of Finance's top official last night said the $68m year-over-year increase in compensation for government employees during the 2022-2023 fiscal year is "not an annual norm".
Promotion Board president urges 30% stopover focus
The Bahamas Out Island Promotions Board president yesterday urged the nation to near-double the proportion of stopover visitors that make up its tourism base to 30 percent.
Yacht broker alarm on 'dismal' winter charters
Bahamian yacht brokers yesterday warned charter bookings for the peak winter season are "dismal" with the sector "almost at a standstill" due to VAT's imposition and lack of clarity on how it works.
Coroner’s Court jury rules police justified in shooting Ishido Saunders
A CORONER’s Court jury ruled that police were justified in killing Ishido Saunders, an ex-con who demanded $3,000 to start a new life moments before he was shot on Antigua Street on April 28, 2022.
Migration down overall - but rise in those headed to the US
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Commodore Raymond King said the northern Bahamas has seen a 90 per cent increase in migration to the United States.
RBDF RECRUITING DROP OVER HAITI: Candidates choose other services amid deployment plans
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force Commodore Raymond King said plans to send officers to Haiti has hampered the RBDF’s recruitment efforts, with some potential recruits choosing to join other law enforcement organisations.
MLB stars come out in Futures Showcase
From Bahamian Major League player Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr and coach Antoan Richardson to American icons Andrew Dawson, Derek Jeter and CC Sabathia, there was no shortage of stars for the local and international high school players to glean from as they got their opportunity to shine.
Shockers down Giants 2-1, win championship trophy
THE St Francis and Joseph Shockers had to make room for yet another championship trophy after the girls closed out their series against the Xavier’s Lower School Giants 2-1 in game three of the Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools Championships.
Terrence ‘Red Eye’ McSweeney honoured
FOR the tremendous work he has done over the years, veteran women’s basketball coach Terrence “Red Eye” McSweeney was honoured by The Hope Center during their men’s service on Sunday.
Baseball/Softball Kids’ Clinic a success at Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium
THE Don’t Blink week of festivities included the successful hosting of a baseball and softball kids clinic held at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium for the first time on Wednesday.
DR KENT BAZARD – The challenge of navigating weight loss at Christmas
Most of us just give up on nutrition during this season but as we approach every Bahamian’s favourite time of year, let’s circle back to our discussions on nutrition and, specifically, why your favourite New Year’s resolution was unsuccessful this year...again.
Gov't: We have maturing $300m US bond 'covered'
The Government is "very confident that we have covered" the $300m external US dollar bond due to mature in mid-January 2024, its top finance official said last night.
Water Corp must pay for Mangrove Cay 'trespass'
The Water & Sewerage Corporation has been ordered to pay damages for trespass after it installed key network infrastructure for supplying Mangrove Cay on property which it did not own.
Seven in court over $14k theft
SEVEN men were each granted $5,000 bail yesterday after they were accused of stealing $14,000 worth of electronics from a store during a break-in last month.
Man accused over deadly shooting of Ricardo Rolle
A MAN is behind bars after he allegedly shot and killed a man in New Providence last week.
IAN FERGUSON: Young entrepreneurs to require these qualities
YOUNG entrepreneurs do not necessarily have a lot of work experience - either because they just graduated from college, or entered the job market for the first time and want to start a new business venture. The encouragement they often receive is to get a job and work towards gaining experience that will later inform their entrepreneurial pursuits. The truth is that an early start on the road to enterprise can also prove beneficial to youth in business.
Family Island resorts eye renewable energy plans
Family Island resorts were yesterday introduced to an initiative designed to lower the upfront cost of renewable energy investments and make them more affordable.
Family Island locations 'blowing it out the water'
A senior tourism official yesterday said several Family Island destinations have been "blowing it out of the water" as the Government seeks to drive increased airlift to the destination.
Reforms to keep Bahamas off EU, OECD tax blacklists
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the latest reforms to the economic substance reporting regime are designed to remove The Bahamas from, and keep it off, tax-related blacklists.
BPL addresses Briland woes with fuel supplier
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) yesterday said it is speaking to its supplier to ensure the fuel contamination that has disrupted Harbour Island's electricity over the past three weeks ceases.
AG: Tackling substance reporting woes is critical
The Attorney General yesterday said The Bahamas must address alleged deficiencies in its economic substance reporting regime to escape the European Union's (EU) tax blacklist.
Thursday, December 7
STATESIDE: The mixed legacy of Henry Kissinger
HENRY Kissinger died a week ago. He was 100 years old. Major newspapers such as the New York Times and the Washington Post devoted several full pages to accounts of his life and many accomplishments.
FRONT PORCH: Christmas won’t be the same this year
EVEN at the beginning of Advent, we are already purchasing or thinking about the Christmas gifts we may want to give this year. A part of our Advent meditation and preparation for Christmas may be greater thoughtfulness about how we will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Task force announced to examine water safety after fatal shark attack
BAHAMAS Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) president Robert Sands said the association will establish a task force to examine watersports and beach activity concerns.
Darville concerned over PMH worries
HEALTH Minister Dr Michael Darville said he is concerned about Bahamians’ mixed feelings about services at Princess Margaret Hospital.
A Legendary beginning
A GROUNDBREAKING ceremony was held yesterday for the Legendary Marina Resort at Blue Water Cay, a project expected to employ more than 200 qualified Bahamians, according to Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis.
Whistleblower secretly taped broker meetings
A Bahamian whistleblower secretly recorded an executive meeting at a now-defunct Nassau broker/dealer whose principal continues to battle US federal regulators in the Florida courts.
Construction’s fears on ‘bread and butter’
The Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president has voiced fears that construction’s “bread and butter” will be undermined if the declining trend in mortgage loan approvals persists.
Accountants urged one-year Business Licence audit delay
Bahamian accountants had urged the Government to delay the Business Licence audit requirement for firms with an annual turnover of $5m or more by one year, it was revealed last night.
Out Islands 115MW bid launch ‘fantastic’
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday hailed the launch of a bidding process for Out Island microgrid, renewable and clean fuel generation as “fantastic”, adding: “I can’t wait for it to start.”
Saunders demanded $3,000 to start a new life – moments before he was shot dead
A BISHOP testified yesterday that Ishido Saunders showed up to the Golden Gates Assembly Church in 2022 and demanded $3,000 from him to start a new life before police fatally shot him.
First day for new MP Smith
THE Progressive Liberal Party’s Kingsley Smith, Jr, was officially sworn in yesterday as the member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini.
‘No plans’ to move Junkanoo off Bay Street
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the government is not considering moving the annual Junkanoo parades to another location, describing Bay Street as the essence of Junkanoo.
Coroner to oppose police appeal in Azario Major case
THE Coroner’s Court will oppose police officers’ attempt to appeal the Azario Major homicide by manslaughter finding in the Supreme Court.
Comedian cleared over sex video accusations
COMEDIAN Khing Kloud was acquitted yesterday of voyeurism and intentional libel after his accuser failed to show up for trial, ending what he said was an emotionally distressing saga that diminished his career and robbed him of economic opportunities.
Pintard says Bannister is diminishing credibility
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said Desmond Bannister’s comments about the FNM’s need for a convention are disappointing, adding that the former deputy prime minister addressed the matter in an unfortunate way.
PM: HATE ATTACK ‘NOT TOLERATED’ – Davis condemns ‘assault’ of trans woman – as US Embassy calls for a full investigation
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday condemned the alleged attack on a transgender woman at a club on West Bay Street over the weekend. The US Embassy in Nassau said it expects a full investigation into the claims.
SHOCKERS WIN TITLE: Xavier’s Lower School Giants tie series 1-1
The Sts Francis and Joseph School Shockers’ boys swept the Xavier’s Lower School Giants 2-0 in the Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools Championships to become the 2023 champions yesterday at Loyola Hall.
Don’t Blink festivities underway
DON’T Blink Week got off to a rousing start yesterday at the Andre Rodgers Stadium with a kids baseball and softball skills clinic followed by a celebrity softball game getting this week’s festivities started.
BPGA gears up for 50th National Pro Golf Championships
THE Bahamas Professional Golfers Association (BPGA) is gearing up for its 50th Year National Professional Golf Championships for men, women and senior men.
President of Boxing Federation Vincent Strachan off to Congress
VINCENT Strachan, president of the Boxing Federation of the Bahamas, left town on Tuesday for the International Boxing Association Ordinary Congress in Dubai, UAE. Strachan is slated to return December 10.
Cross Country: QC, SAC finish on top
THE sports rivalry between the Queen’s College Comets and St Augustine’s College (SAC) Big Red Machine continued over the weekend at St Andrew’s School for the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) Cross Country Championships.
Dogs bark over FNM
The by-election is over and the FNM has lost, however in the aftermath and post-mortem of it all there is lots of noise in the market. The noise has become deafening so much so that amidst the noise there were screams for a new leader for the party, even screams from one who claimed he had got a recent beatdown.
Business cards
There has been a debate surrounding the perceived weight of traditional paper business cards versus modern smart business cards. I strongly disagree with the notion that paper business cards hold more significance.
$6,500 fine over marijuana in car
A MAN was fined $6,500 after admitting to having 4.8lb of marijuana in his car near Potter’s Cay Dock earlier this week.
Accused of carrying loaded gun
A MAN was sent to prison after he was allegedly seen walking with a loaded gun at his waist on Lily of the Valley Corner last weekend.
Further reforms ‘will ensure we are off’ EU and OECD blacklists
The Bahamas has been forced to change its economic substance reporting laws twice within a year “to ensure that we are off” the OECD and EU blacklists, the Prime Minister said yesterday.
Fostering human innovation key to digital transformation
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital transformation, it is easy to get swept up in the wave of technological advances. However, amid the algorithms and automation, the human element remains an integral factor for success. Building a culture of innovation is not just about implementing the latest technologies, but fostering a mindset that encourages creativity, adaptability and collaboration among the workforce.
Bahamas moves to block loss of investment funds
The Prime Minister yesterday unveiled reforms to a package of financial services laws in a bid to prevent The Bahamas losing “a material amount” of investment funds to Brazilian tax law changes.
RBC customers hit by ‘skimming’ fraud
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) yesterday confirmed that “a number” of its Bahamian customers have fallen victim to fraud and loss after their Visa cards were exposed to a ‘skimming’ attack.
Stranded passengers may get distressed rate for hotel stay
PASSENGERS who find themselves stranded at Lynden Pindling International Airport due to unexpected circumstances may be given a helping hand as part of discussions between Nassau Airport Development (NAD) and hotels.
Grand Bahama ‘joining the party’ for tourism
Ian Rolle, chairman of the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board, said tourism numbers there are “finally joining the party”.
Talks with Port Authority over GB future ‘stalled’
TALKS with the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) over the future of Grand Bahama have “stalled”, says Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis - but he is hopeful that they will resume shortly.
Distillery unveils limited edition rum to mark 50th independence
John Watling’s Distillery has unveiled the limited release of its Bullion rum to commemorate both its tenth birthday and the 50th anniversary of Bahamian independence.
Wednesday, December 6
Govt invests $37k in national school farming initiative
THE Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources has invested over $37,000 to launch a national school farming initiative.
ALICIA WALLACE: Gender expression should not be a restriction but an opportunity
LAST week, there were reports of a man attempting to use a women’s restroom at a sports facility. This was later found to be false, and the original report was the result of hysteria. The person who was accused of trying to enter a women’s restroom said that they were merely accompanying someone to the general area of restrooms. It was reported that the person was wearing a crop top. This was an important detail because it gives insight into what the person who made the false report was thinking.
Man charged with two counts of attempted murder remanded
A MAN was sent to prison after allegedly trying to kill two people last week.
Police release identity of victim of shark attack
POLICE have identified the woman killed in a shark attack on Monday as Lauren Erickson Van Wart, 44, of Massachusetts.
Ministry of Energy and Transport says BPL responded ‘swiftly’ after criticism from Cartwright on Acklins and Eleuthera power outages
FREE National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright ripped the government’s “unreliable” electricity and water supply to Eleuthera and Acklins yesterday, drawing a response from the Ministry of Energy and Transport, which said electricity issues have been quickly addressed.
UNESCO adds Junkanoo to Intangible Cultural Heritage list
JUNKANOO has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity.
IMF report response blasted as ‘embarrassing if not so serious’
The Government and Opposition responses to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) report on The Bahamas “would be embarrassing if it wasn’t such a serious matter,” a financial observer has blasted.
Business Licence full audit ‘screams you don’t trust us’
The Government’s enhanced Business Licence verification regime “screams that you don’t trust us” to pay all due fees, the Bahamas Motor Dealers Association’s (BMDA) president argued yesterday.
Briland ‘won’t have a product to sell’ if energy woes persist
Briland resorts and property managers yesterday warned “we won’t have a product to sell if this continues” after the high-end tourism destination was hit by a third successive week of power and utility outages.
National debt shrinks $77m in third quarter
The Bahamas’ national debt shrank by almost $77m during the 2023 third quarter but this proved insufficient to reverse the total $400m-plus growth incurred over the prior 12 months, it was revealed yesterday.
Banks see 30% profits increase
Bahamian commercial banks collectively enjoyed a 30 percent year-over-year profit increase to $109.2m during the 2023 second quarter due to rising interest income, it was revealed yesterday.
Judge finds Daxon claims ‘frivolous, vexatious’
A JUDGE tore apart and struck out two lawsuits Maria Daxon brought against police and other public bodies, finding her claims frivolous, vexatious and abusive of the judicial process with no real prospect of success.
FNM files complaint with police on Johnson’s accusation over attack
LEADERS of the Free National Movement party filed a complaint with police about Richard Johnson, the organisation’s vice-chairman, saying he falsely accused them of orchestrating the physical attack he experienced last week.
‘Junkanoo parade has outgrown Bay Street’
JUNKANOO Corporation of New Providence Chairman Dion Miller said the annual parades have outgrown their Bay Street venue –– and Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg agrees.
Monetary donations are at all-time low, say charities
THE Good Samaritan Senior Citizens Home has received many donations this holiday season –– but the gifts have been smaller than in the past.
‘HATE CRIME’ ATTACK ON TRANS WOMAN: American tells court ‘five or six men’ beat her at Bay Street club
A LAWYER claimed an American transgender woman was beaten “black and blue” during a “hate crime” at a club on West Bay Street on Saturday.
DON’T BLINK: Stage set for baseball extravaganza this week
The stage is set for the Don’t Blink Baseball extravaganza this week. It all begins 4pm today at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium with a kid’s clinic, organised by the MLBPA. Immediately following that at 7pm will be the celebrity softball game at the stadium as well.
Major Jr excited to be back home
BACK home among family and friends after completing his first semester as a freshman for the Bison men’s tennis team at Howard University, Michael Major Jr is looking forward to displaying his skills at both the Mark Knowles Tennis Cup and the Baldacci Tennis Open.
Catholic Primary Schools Finals: Shockers go up 1-0
THE Sts Francis and Joseph School Shockers boys and girls advanced to a 1-0 series lead after game one of the Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools Championships yesterday at Loyola Hall.
UB Mingoes In 1-1 draw with Western Warriors
THE University of The Bahamas men’s soccer team came into the Bahamas Football Association match against The Western Warriors looking for a win and a shot to move up the standings.
Dunkin’ Donuts Baseball Treat
ON Monday, Dunkin’ Donuts on East Street was transformed into the epicentre of baseball and Dunkin’ delights, as local baseball players from the highly anticipated Don’t Blink Home Run Derby took a break from knocking balls out of the park to serve customers not only coffee and donuts, but lots of smiles.
‘Buddy’ Hield thriving in starting role for Pacers
SINCE being added to the Indiana Pacers’ starting unit in late November, Bahamian guard Chavano “Buddy” Hield has thrived in his starting role.
Pintard shows how not to lead
Free National Movement (FNM), once a symbol of political strength and progress in the Bahamas, now languishes under the lackluster leadership of Michael Pintard. This period in the party’s history will likely be remembered as a time of missed opportunities, strategic blunders, and a glaring disconnect from the Bahamian electorate.
Killing sharks is not the answer
Another fatal shark attack on a tourist has prompted calls again for culling sharks.
‘Footage shows Saunders shot at police before killed’
A POLICE inspector testified yesterday that security footage showed Ishido Saunders chasing and shooting at a police car before two officers fatally shot him near Golden Gates Assembly Church in 2022.
Man allegedly robbed woman at gunpoint on Carmichael Rd
A MAN is behind bars after allegedly stealing a woman’s purse at gunpoint at a bus stop on Carmichael Road last week. Two civilians reportedly detained the suspect before police arrested him.
Three men charged with loaded gun possession
THREE men were granted bail after they were allegedly found with a loaded gun in their car on Cowpen Road last week.
Coral restoration drive to boost ‘blue’ economy
The Ministry of Tourism yesterday partnered for a coral reef restoration drive that aims to boost sustainable tourism and the 23 percent of Bahamian economic output generated by the ocean economy.
Cement maker hails 2023 as ‘amazing year’ in construction
A cement manufacturer yesterday branded 2023 an “amazing year” for construction as it focuses on expansion to the Family Islands in 2024.
Bahamian firms urged to embrace AI benefits
Bahamian companies are being urged by the head of a local technology firm to embrace the advantages of using artificial intelligence (AI) in their day-to-day operations.
Tuesday, December 5
PETER YOUNG: Wokeness is destroying west, says Boris Johnson
He’s back. To general acclaim, whether you like him or not, ousted former British prime minister Boris Johnson has returned to his old trade by becoming a regular columnist for the UK’s mass circulation tabloid newspaper, the Daily Mail. So he has a new platform to express his views on a variety of issues and to maintain his relevance as a political figure in Britain – believing, apparently, that he still has a future in that most unforgiving of occupations.
FACE TO FACE: Making a world of difference for people with disabilities
PEOPLE living with disabilities are no different from any other kind of human being; all are deserving of the same level of respect and consideration, so that human rights are truly guaranteed to all.
EDITORIAL: FNM needs to get house in order
ALL is not well in the ranks of the FNM.
Tourist spending in local economy will ‘far exceed $6bn’, says Cooper
TOURISM officials estimate that direct visitor spending in the Bahamian economy amid record tourist arrivals will “far exceed $6bn” this year, exceeding previous records, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation Chester Cooper.
US ‘newlywed’ killed by shark
A SHARK attack that killed a 44-year-old American woman yesterday was likely the result of an “accidental bite,” a shark expert said yesterday.
Ministry of Agriculture giving $64k held to Potters Cay vendors affected by fire
POTTER’S Cay Dock vendors whose stalls were destroyed during a recent fire will share $64,823 from the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources to rebuild.
Governor General gives thanks for workers at PHA institutions
GOVERNOR General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt expressed appreciation to Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre (SRC) staff yesterday during the annual governor general’s visit to Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) institutions.
Four honoured for their heroic actions saving a woman from a sinking car
THE Royal Bahamas Police Force gave four people bravery awards for helping to save Saniyah Penn, 16, from waters near Arawak Cay when a vehicle she was in went overboard and started sinking on October 22.
‘Happy medium’ within sight on Business Licence anxiety
The Ministry of Finance’s top official last night voiced optimism that “a happy medium” is close over new Business Licence verification rules that were causing growing private sector anxiety.
‘Condemned’ risk over fiscal watchdog’s continued limbo
The Bahamas risks being “condemned” for failing to sustain a key watchdog with most Fiscal Responsibility Council (FRC) members viewing their tenure as having ended, one has revealed.
‘No question’ Bahamians feeling $6bn visitor spend
The deputy prime minister yesterday asserted there is “no question in my mind” that all Bahamians are feeling the impact from more than $6bn in tourism spending driven by record visitor arrivals.
Cable: No further NFL blackout ‘anticipated’
Cable Bahamas top executive yesterday said it “doesn’t anticipate” a repeat of Sunday afternoon’s National Football League (NFL) blackout that has sparked a regulatory inquiry.
Cruise port targeting 5.6m visitors in 2024
The Nassau Cruise Port’s chief executive yesterday revealed it expects total passenger arrivals to grow by 27 percent in 2024 to strike a new record of 5.6m for the year.
BTC the title sponsor of 50th Red Cross Ball
NEXT year’s Red Cross Ball, scheduled for January 27, is being dubbed by planners as “the best to come”, with organisers set to celebrate the ball’s 50th anniversary as BTC serves as a $30,000 title sponsor.
$42,000 neurosurgery tool donated to hospital
VITAL equipment for use in neurosurgery and spine procedures has been presented to Princess Margaret Hospital.
Girls’ softball and boys’ baseball champions earn bragging rights
THE New Providence Public Primary Schools Sports Association completed its girls softball and boys baseball competition on Friday at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
URCA looks into Cable’s failure on NFL games
THE Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is looking into Cable Bahamas’ recent failure to broadcast some NFL games, which sparked complaints from National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, among others.
Technical issues upset residents trying to buy Junkanoo tickets on Aliv’s app
THIRTY-SEVEN per cent of Junkanoo parade seats are reserved for certain people, with many seats located in prime positions in Rawson Square and in the front of Scotiabank.
Atlantis supervisor of woman on jury duty scolded by Judge
A SUPREME Court judge in the Adrian Gibson corruption trial declined to fine an Atlantis supervisor yesterday, but reprimanded her for allegedly telling a juror to take vacation leave while on jury duty.
‘TIME FOR FNM TO HOLD CONVENTION’: Bannister calls for vote but Lewis questions if party factions will unite
FORMER Deputy Prime Minister Desmond Bannister urged Michael Pintard to call a convention “at the earliest possible date,” saying a delay would diminish confidence in his leadership amid divisions in the party.
STARS ALIGN FOR BAHA MAR CUP: Mark Knowles gets set for one-of-a-kind tennis fundraiser
Another talented group of international stars will be in town this weekend to participate in the fourth annual Baha Mar Cup.
Junkanoo 242 teams up with World Relays
THE World Athletics Relays Bahamas ‘24 announced the partnership with Junkanoo 242 at their official launch over the weekend.
Rev Diana Francis set to be honoured at awards banquet
THE Rev. Diana Francis is expected to be honoured on Saturday night when the Roadrunners Track Club hosts its 23rd annual Presentation and Awards Banquet at the Sandals Royal Bahamian hotel on West Bay Street.
Agape Eagles senior girls, LIS boys win Northern Bahamas volleyball title
THE Northern Bahamas Volleyball Championships took place Saturday at St George’s gym in Grand Bahama with both the senior girls and boys games being completed in two-game sweeps.
Pintard needs to deal with rebels
The open rebellion within the Free National Movement towards Marco City MP Michael Pintard is not unique, but the irrational expectations of the beleaguered leader’s detractors is borderline unprecedented.
Man charged with murder in the killing of Angelo Antonio
A MAN was remanded after he allegedly gunned down a 37-year-old man who was sitting in his car outside a bar on West Bay Street last month.
Man remanded after being charged with manslaughter
A MAN was remanded yesterday after he was accused of causing the death of a person last month.
Suspect accused of raping woman in Shirley St home
A MAN was remanded yesterday after he was accused of sexually assaulting a woman at a residence on Shirley Street last week.
‘My son threatened a pastor before police shot him dead’
THE mother of Ishido Saunders testified that her son threatened a pastor at Golden Gates Assembly Church before he was killed.
Gov’t targets $65,000 to repair Potter’s Cay stalls
The Government yesterday said it is trying to raise almost $65,000 to repair stalls belonging to Potter’s Cay Dock vendors that were destroyed by fire two weeks ago.
Battery energy storage ‘sooner rather than later’
Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority (URCA) executives yesterday said battery energy storage systems (BESS) to help drive greater renewable energy usage will be here “sooner rather than later”.
Stopover visitors exceed pre-COVID high by 30%
Stopover arrivals beat pre-COVID highs by more than 30 percent in September with the economy forecast to hold its “growth momentum” into 2024, the Central Bank said yesterday.
Monday, December 4
THE KDK REPORT: A thousand percent
THERE is a rhythm to island life that foreigners may appreciate but only natives can fully understand. Day by day, the oft dull percussions of the land and sea beat slowly with no regard for time. Islanders move at their own pace and work if they feel like it or if they must.
WORLD VIEW – Climate Change Realities at COP28: A Critical Assessment
THE upcoming Climate Change meeting in Dubai – COP28 – is enveloped in hype, yet expectations of transformational change are misplaced.
INSIGHT: When actions don’t support the rhetoric
RIGHT now, people are sitting down to try to save the world. In theory, at least.
EDITORIAL: Praiseworthy statistics in fight against HIV
FOR those who remember the challenges this country has gone through in dealing with sexually transmitted diseases, today’s news of continuing declines in cases is the kind of news that seemed impossible to dream of at times.
Flooding mitigation promised by Ministry of Works has not arrived a year later, say Cable Beach residents
ONE year later, residents near Cable Beach say Ministry of Works officials have not delivered on promises to mitigate flooding and its effects in their area.
‘Time is a luxury we do not have’, Davis warns at COP28
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis warned world leaders that “time is a luxury we do not have” as he once again called for urgent action to fight climate change at the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) in Dubai on Saturday.
Gov’t loses intervention on $12m cruise ship sale VAT
The Department of Inland Revenue’s bid to intervene in the sale of two cruise ships and secure the $11.636m in VAT it claims to be owed has been dismissed by the Supreme Court.
Abaco Cay warns PM BPL woe ‘unbearable’
Residents of an Abaco cay have warned the Prime Minister that “unbearable” electricity woes have become “a significant deterrent” to tourism and are driving second homeowners to invest elsewhere.
Legal dispute erupts on $1.3m Post Office deal
A fledging Bahamian company that won a $1.323m bid to digitise the Post Office’s services has launched legal action over allegations it has been prevented from fulfilling the contract award.
$110m marina project in ‘accelerating’ sales
A $110m southern New Providence marina development says wet and dry slip membership sales “continue to outpace expectations” with construction work having begun ahead of the official ground breaking.
Higher for longer
ActivTrades
Hopes remain for a continuation of the year-end rally on the equity markets. After the recent price gains, investors are hoping for such an outcome. In the coming week, economic data and signals from central banks are likely to dominate events.
Junkanoo parades entry order announced
ANTICIPATION for the upcoming Junkanoo parades is growing after the order of entry for groups was announced on Saturday.
Bowleg: $25k Christmas tree wasn’t completed
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg defended the aesthetics of the Christmas tree in Parliament Square yesterday, saying the tree was incomplete during last week’s national tree lighting ceremony.
Azario family frustrated with court as officers granted leave to appeal
THE family of Azario Major is frustrated by what they see as an effort to delay justice after police killed their loved one outside Woody’s Bar on Fire Trail Road on December 26, 2021.
Cases of sex infections reduced over ten years
THE public healthcare system recorded 2,169 sexually transmitted infections in 2022, 61 per cent –– or 1,320 –– of which were syphilis cases.
FNM LEADERS DENY ROLE OVER ASSAULT: ‘Regrettable’ that Johnson accused top party members following attack outside HQ
THE leadership of the Free National Movement said Richard Johnson’s claim that party leaders were involved in the physical attack against him outside an FNM meeting last week is false and regrettable.
THE BEST-OF-THE-BEST: Long Island skipper Stefan Knowles takes home Class B, C titles
After four days of exciting action on the seas and on land at Montagu Bay, the best of the best in sloop sailing around The Bahamas were awarded at the sixth Best-of-the-Best Regatta last night.
‘Geno’ Nairn honoured at Big Red Madness
ALTHOUGH he walked off St Augustine’s College as a graduate in 1968, Eugene ‘Geno’ Nairn continued to come back, giving of his time, energy and resources to assist with the further development of the Big Red Machine athletic programme.
Tennis juniors shine in college showcase
COACH Philip Major Jr said he was more than impressed with the performance level of the seven Bahamian junior tennis players who participated in the college showcase held last week in Maples, Florida.
Catholic Primary Schools Basketball Championships all set for Tuesday
THE 2023-24 Catholic Board of Education Primary Schools basketball championships will feature the Xavier’s Lower School Giants boys and girls versus the Sts Francis & Joseph School Shockers on Tuesday at the Loyola Hall.
Bahamas Youth Flag Football League champions crowned
THE 2023 Bahamas Youth Flag Football League (BYFFL) season is now in the books after three champions were crowned over the weekend on the playing fields opposite the original Thomas A Robinson stadium.
Scheffler makes it look easy for 3-shot victory in Hero World Challenge, Tiger Woods finishes 18th
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Scottie Scheffler has made great gains in his putting. Add that to the rest of top-ranked game, and he made it look easy yesterday. He closed with a 4-under 68 for a three-shot victory in the Hero World Challenge.
Pintard, an exemplary leader
I write to commend the exemplary leadership of Michael Pintard, the party leader of the Free National Movement, during the recent by-election for West Grand Bahama and Bimini. While our party may not have secured victory in this battle, I am confident that, with Pintard at the helm, we are well on our way to winning the war and regaining the government in 2026.
FNM not learning their lesson
Loretta Butler-Turner once said: “I never lose, I learn.” Now that the finger-pointing has already started in the aftermath of the FNM’s defeat in the by-election, it’s clear that some FNMs are not learning the right lessons.
Gov’t: We won’t add to gasoline pump prices
A Cabinet minister is voicing hope that reductions in global oil prices and energy costs will give Bahamian petroleum retailers some relief outside their long-desired 30 cents per gallon margin increase.
Bahamian realtor generates $100m sales after rebrand
A rebranded Bahamian real estate firm generated $100m in property sales during its first week of operating under two international industry names.
Friday, December 1
Man charged with murder granted bail after three years on remand
A MAN charged with murder was granted bail after spending three years on remand awaiting trial.
PAHO Director Emeritus Dr Carissa F. Etienne dies
The Pan American Health Organization announced on Friday that Director Emeritus Dr Carissa F. Etienne has died.
Man awaiting murder retrial charged with firearm possession
A MAN awaiting retrial for murder was sent to prison after he was allegedly found with a loaded gun after being chased by police in the Big Pond area last week.
Two charged over boat theft
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after he was accused of stealing a $25,000 boat in Eleuthera last month.
Woman ordered to pay $1,000 to her former girlfriend after beating and attempting to stab her
A WOMAN was ordered to pay $1,000 as compensation to her former girlfriend after admitting to beating her and attempting to stab her with a knife at her home last week.
Tiger Woods putts into a bunker and loses ground, Spieth and Scheffler share lead in Hero World Challenge
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Tiger Woods opened with four birdies in seven holes. The closing stretch was another struggle Friday in the Hero World Challenge, which included a putt that went off the green and into the bunker.
Clubs & Societies December 1st, 2023
On Saturday, December 9, from 11am to 3pm, the Cancer Society’s Freedom Kids Support Group will hold its Annual Christmas Kids Party, featuring food, games, and gift giving.
DIANE PHILLIPS: ‘Tis the season to be... WHAT?
‘TIS the season to be jolly, deck the halls with boughs of holly, fa la la la la la la la la, or so the song goes, but as a friend reminded me it’s also the season for something else – licensing firearms.
EDITORIAL: Promising action at start of COP28
THE United Nations climate conferences – of which COP28 is the latest incarnation – have perhaps too often been seen as talking shops. Lots of talking, not as much doing.
Marijuana legislation to be tabled ‘hopefully in January’ says Pinder
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said he hopes marijuana legislation will be tabled in the House of Assembly in January.
‘Agriculture Crown land leases where shanty homes are built will be ended’
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said the government would terminate agriculture-related Crown land leases if shanty towns have been built on the properties.
Halkitis says country’s fiscal position stronger than last year
ECONOMIC Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis said the country’s fiscal position is stronger than last year.
Munroe defends both monitoring company and police after criticism
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe defended both the company that monitors people on bail and police who respond to notifications about bail violations after both groups were criticised.
NIB move saves drug access for thousands
The National Insurance Board (NIB) last night went manual to preserve access to essential medicines for thousands of Bahamians after the National Prescription Drug Plan’s IT system crashed.
Project fills ‘10-year void’ for upper middle housing
A south-west New Providence development was yesterday said to be filling a “ten-year void” in the middle class housing market after clinching $13m in lot sales during its first three months.
‘Tables are turned’: BPSU chiefs in vacation pay fight
An ex-Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) president has enjoyed “limited success” in securing the $72,000 in accrued vacation pay he alleges is owed following a furious legal battle.
Gov’t ‘betting on ability’ to prove the IMF wrong
The Government is “betting on our ability” to hit its fiscal targets, a Cabinet minister asserted yesterday, predicting that the Opposition and other critics will “be wrong again”.
Bahamians ‘get better IP protections abroad’
Bahamians are better able to safeguard their intellectual property rights and innovations in foreign countries than at home due to an existing regime that is “so antiquated”, the Attorney General said yesterday.
One person injured after three vessels catch fire at Potter’s Cay Dock
One person was injured after three vessels caught fire at Potter’s Cay Dock on Friday morning.
Vice-Chairman assaulted outside FNM headquarters
A MAN assaulted Free National Movement vice chairman Richard Johnson outside the party’s headquarters last night, disrupting the meeting that was happening inside and causing police to get involved.
BACSWN could land Bahamas millions in US-certified aviation carbon credits
A Bahamian company is in the international spotlight after an interview with a US TV network.
Climate impact fund agreed at COP28 Dubai conference
DELEGATES at COP28 agreed to introduce a loss and damage fund for small island developing states and other vulnerable territories such as The Bahamas to recover from storms, floods, and other adverse weather events influenced by climate change.
HEAD BOY LOCKED UP UNLAWFULLY: $50k damages after student behind bars for 17 hours and missed BGCSE examinations
THE head boy of Westminster College was arrested, forced to sleep on the floor while in custody for 17 hours, and made to miss several BGCSE exams in what a Supreme Court judge ruled was a case of unlawful arrest and false imprisonment, awarding him $50,120 in damages and $12,000 in costs.
REGATTA TIME AGAIN: Best-of-the-Best off to great start in Montagu Bay
The sixth Best of the Best Regatta lived up to the hype on day one of the sloop sailing event. Skippers and their crew members were in top form on the waters at Montagu Bay, competing in Class A, B, C and E.
Carl Hield on a roll in pro bouts
SINCE making his professional debut in October, Bahamian boxer Carl Hield has been unstoppable.
NPBA: High Flyers earn victories
THE Sand Dollar High Flyers division one and two teams added another victory to their win columns after defeating the Island Development Rebels and BIBT Great Whites on Wednesday night at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.
DR KENT BAZARD – Unlocking speed: The seven keys to propel your performance
IN the pursuit of speed, athletes explore a multifaceted journey where various elements intertwine to propel them toward greater velocity. Here, we unravel the seven keys to unlocking your fastest self, backed by both empirical evidence and the synergy of scientific wisdom.
Reloaded Baseball collaborates with Grand Bahama Baseball/Softball Leagues for first time
THE Reloaded Baseball executive team commuted to Grand Bahama earlier this week to meet with representatives of the Grand Bahama Little League and Legacy Baseball League.
Hero World Challenge at Albany: Tiger Woods has a sloppy finish for a 75
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Tiger Woods held up just fine yesterday in his first time competing in eight months, except for limping at the end. That was more about his golf than his fused right ankle.
Officials working on legislation to eliminate inequalities in citizenship access, says AG
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said officials are working at legislation that would eliminate inequalities related to citizenship access.
WSC worker denies being coerced to testify against Gibson
A SENIOR employee at the Water and Sewerage Corporation denied a defence attorney’s suggestion yesterday that she was coerced into giving evidence against Adrian Gibson and his co-accused to avoid being charged in the case.
FNM’s downfall by Pintard
The Free National Movement (FNM), once a symbol of political strength and progress in the Bahamas, now languishes under the lackluster leadership of Michael Pintard. This period in the party’s history will likely be remembered as a time of missed opportunities, strategic blunders, and a glaring disconnect from the Bahamian electorate.
Concerned over holiday season safety
Guess I should be saying Season’s Greetings with just short of a month to go, before that big day Christmas, followed by the residual other holidays, a good rest time for some of the country’s essential staffers, well deserved, I think.
Samoa agreement - good or not?
There is presently a push to have the African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries sign on to a 20-year binding agreement with the European Union (EU). This is a revised version of two previous agreements that primarily dealt with trade between the regions, amongst other benefits.
Man accused of sexually abusing mentally ill woman gets bail
A FORMER corrections officer was granted bail yesterday after he twice allegedly sexually abused a mentally ill woman this summer.
Man accused of having gun and ammo granted $9k bail
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after he was allegedly found with the shell of a gun and 11 rounds of ammunition last week.
Possession of a gram of marijuana leads to $1,300 fine for man
A MAN was fined $1,300 after admitting to having a gram of marijuana last weekend.
Man accused of stabbing another man near his eye
A MAN was sent to Sandilands yesterday after he allegedly stabbed another man near his eyes outside Super Wash on Nassau Street earlier this week.
IAN FERGUSON: How to avoid strife over family-owned businesses
Many micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in The Bahamas are family-owned sole proprietorships or husband and wife partnerships. There are MSMEs that are quite small, operating in a ‘Mom and Pop’ type fashion, but there are others who have navigated the landscape well enough to grow and expand.
