Tuesday, January 31
Two suspects shot by police after man killed on Joe Farrington Road
POLICE officers shot and arrested two suspects shortly after the assailants killed a man on Joe Farrington Road Tuesday.
PETER YOUNG: Could supply of tanks to Ukraine be a turning point?
AS the first anniversary approaches of the worst conflagration on European soil since the Second World War, there has been widespread reporting in the international media this past week of plans by Western countries to supply tanks to Ukraine. With differing numbers being bandied about, the latest information from Kyiv’s ambassador to France is that “numerous countries have officially confirmed their agreement to deliver 321 tanks (to Ukraine)”.
FACE TO FACE: A landmark and the pioneer who created it
BEVERLEY’s Kitchen is one of the pioneering businesses on Carmichael Road, keeping up a long tradition of food, family and friends - celebrating the special things in life. Long before it became the bustling area once dubbed “City 2000” by father of the nation, Sir Lynden Pindling, Carmichael was home to Beverley’s.
Sugar tax? Where’s the fiscal strategy first?
THE Free National Movement blasted the government’s upcoming plans to introduce tax on sugar and excess salt, adding a legally mandated Fiscal Strategy Report has yet to be provided by the government.
EDITORIAL: Pintard puts Davis in quandary over reshuffle
THERE is something of a political game going on between the leaders of the two major parties in our country at present.
Cooper: Seven million and counting as tourist numbers on rise
VISITOR arrivals to The Bahamas, which exceeded seven million last year, are expected to be even higher this year due to stronger branding for the country, according to Chester Cooper, Minister of Tourism, Aviation and Investments.
‘Focused police approach is right for domestic violence’
SOCIAL Services Minister Obie Wilchcombe said he agrees with the police commissioner’s “aggressive and focused approach” to domestic violence.
Nurses chief hopes for end to PMH woes
AFTER the Prime Minister toured Princess Margaret Hospital and admitted the facility was at a “crisis” point, Bahamas Nurses Union president Amancha Williams said she hoped the walkabout will bring a quick resolution to the problems at the facility. Several wards are currently being renovated at PMH.
False claims on social media over permits
CLAIMS circulating on social media were dismissed yesterday by the Ministry of Labour and Immigration.
Passport Office is opened on Cat Island
PRIME Minister Phillip Davis returned to his constituency yesterday to open Cat Island’s first passport office in a move that was welcomed with open arms by residents there.
Minnis: Gov’t is ‘penny wise, pound foolish’ on health VAT
An ex-prime minister yesterday accused the Government of being “penny wise and pound foolish” over the imminent change in VAT treatment of health insurance claims payments.
Hotels eyeing ‘unprecedented forward bookings’ during 2023
The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) president yesterday disclosed the industry is eyeing “unprecedented levels of forward bookings” for the 2023 first half and full year after December beat historical trends by 10 percent.
Financial Stability Council to develop ‘crisis playbook’
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday said the creation of a Bahamian Financial Stability Council will help “develop a playbook” for how regulators and the Government manage an industry “crisis”.
Cheque elimination not a ‘simple flip of switch’
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday conceded that plans to eliminate the use of cheques by end-2024 are “not as simple as flipping a switch” given the resistance encountered thus far to the move.
Pelican Bay Resort renovation is ‘good for Grand Bahama’
TOURISM arrivals have reached seven million for 2022 in figures revealed so far, according to Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation Chester Cooper.
Ambassador visits Grand Bahama and Eleuthera
AMBASSADOR Cindy McCain, the United States Representative to the United Nations Agencies in Rome, travelled to Grand Bahama on Monday and was taken on a tour of the eastern part of the island.
Governor eyes IMF-beating 4-6% GDP growth for 2023
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday forecast that The Bahamas could beat International Monetary Fund (IMF) projections by growing its economy “anywhere in the 4-6 percent range” for 2023.
New Airport among infrastructural improvements planned for Cat Island
CONSTRUCTION for a new airport on Cat Island should begin no later than May, Prime Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis revealed yesterday. “The way it’s looking, we should be able to have shovels in the ground no later than May of this year,” he said.
‘No surprise’ at increase in sex crimes, say activists
ACTIVISTS said the increase of sex crimes is “not surprising”, arguing that the government has continuously failed to prioritise laws that protect women.
Pintard calls for report on Coleby-Davis investigation
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said the government is duty-bound to give a complete report into the police investigation of claims made against Housing and Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis.
DAVIS: STAY OUT OF MY BUSINESS – PM hits back at FNM leader over calls for reshuffle
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis insisted yesterday that he has no plans to shuffle his Cabinet at this time after calls from FNM leader Michael Pintard for him to do so, saying the opposition needs “to stay out of my business”.
Athletes qualify for CARIFTA
The third annual Red-Line Athletics Oaktree Sonja Knowles Track Classic over the weekend at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium was termed a tremendous success with quite a number of athletes attaining the qualifying standards for the CARIFTA Games.
Landscaper: Don’t single out Haitian work permits
THE Bahamas Landscaping Association’s (BLA) chairman says the Government should not bar only new work permit applications for Haitians as there are multiple other nationalities holding jobs Bahamians can do.
MLB The Show ‘23 cover athlete is Marlins’ Jazz Chisholm
MIAMI (AP) — Jazz Chisholm Jr, the Miami Marlins’ euro-stepping, home-run blasting all-star, has goals beyond his impressive stats. With every stolen base and acrobatic catch, Chisholm hopes to have an impact on the next generation of players.
Men’s Soccer League returns to action
THE Bahamas Men’s Soccer League returned to action after the Christmas break with the completion of the quarterfinal rounds of the Hummel Cup 2023 over the weekend at the Roscow AL Davies Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Swimmers make the mark for CARIFTA
THE FAC first annual Bert Bell Memorial Swim Meet took place over the weekend with quite a few competitors attaining the qualifying standards for the 2023 CARIFTA Games in Curacao in April.
NPPPSSA mini basketball tourney underway
THE New Providence Public Primary School Sports Association’s 2023 Mini Basketball Tournament got underway yesterday at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium with some exciting games being played by the girls’ teams.
Pair who deny violating bail are granted bail by court again
TWO men were granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after denying that they violated their bail conditions while on release for separate charges of attempted murder and armed robbery.
Man fined $2000 for possession of marijuana with intent to supply
A MAN was fined $2,000 in court yesterday after admitting to having more than 10 ounces of marijuana.
Accused granted bail in unlicenced firearm and ammunition case
A MAN was granted $7,500 bail in court yesterday after being accused of having a loaded pistol in New Providence last week.
57-year-old man accused of rape of 21-year-old woman remanded
A 57-year-old man was sent to prison yesterday after being accused of raping a 21-year-old woman earlier this month.
Lack of support
Today I had the good fortune to attend the State Recognized Funeral of the Hon. Mr Justice Roger Keith Gomez, Sr (Ret) and was baffled with the lack of support from the clergy, some who personally told me of Bishop Gomez‘ assistance to them in Barbados where he served as Bishop, and particularly the absence of the hierarchy of the Anglican Church
Business Licences
Please allow me space in your daily to voice a concern.
Clinics should not go cashless
Kindly permit me to offer my comments in respect to remarks made by the Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville that the Public Health Clinics will be going cashless.
Monday, January 30
WORLD VIEW: Being homosexual is not a crime - Pope Francis
“BEING homosexual is not a crime. We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity.” Those words were spoken by Pope Francis, easily the most radical pontiff that the Roman Catholic Church has ever had.
THE KDK REPORT: Not all heroes wear capes...
PSYCHOLOGISTS have long proposed that the reason we love comic book superheroes is because we all secretly desire to be the heroes of our own lives.
INSIGHT: Haiti teeters on the brink of civil war with no solutions in sight
IN Haiti, we are witnessing what appears to be the complete breakdown of the law.
Hundreds of jobs on the way for residents of South Abaco
SOUTH Abaco residents have been told to get ready for the “hundreds of jobs and economic activity” that the proposed Kakona South Abaco Development will bring to the island, with airport redevelopments not far behind.
‘Definitely have elements of possible malpractice’ at hospital says Minister of Health and Wellness
WITH allegations of negligence at Princess Margaret Hospital, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said the hospital “definitely” has “elements of possible malpractice”, adding it was up to officials to minimise such incidents.
‘Slight uptick’ in COVID-19 numbers seen at PMH
COVID-19 units at Princess Margaret Hospital are full due to a slight increase in cases, a hospital official said.
Coroner’s Courts inquests will soon resume
AFTER a near three-year absence of inquiries into police-involved shootings, Commissioner Clayton Fernander said he’s been advised that Coroner’s Courts inquests into these matters will soon resume.
‘Reality hasn’t set in’ after guidance counsellor’s road death
A 27-YEAR-OLD school guidance counsellor died in a traffic accident on Queen’s Highway, Eleuthera on Friday.
$50m Arawak Cay project targets ‘Tesla-like’ impact
A Bahamian former professional basketball player is investing $50m in an Arawak Cay manufacturing facility he hopes will enable this nation to become “a leader in the field” of climate-resilient construction.
Cruise port’s $138m refinance eyes millions in cost savings
Nassau Cruise Port yesterday disclosed it is aiming to slash annual debt servicing costs by several million dollars through refinancing the $138m bond debt that kickstarted its transformation at COVID’s peak.
GBPA must ‘get out of the way’ if can’t fulfil mandate
A 50-year Freeport licensee today calls on the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) owners and Hutchison Whampoa to either finally live up to their development obligations or “get out of the way”.
‘Magnificent opportunity’ as Lyford Cay International School to offer additional scholarships for Bahamians
LYFORD Cay International School is looking to increase its more than 40 percent Bahamian student population through the implementation of ten new scholarships.
Police Commissioner warns ‘zero tolerance’
FOLLOWING an increase in murders and other serious offences last year, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander warned that there will be a “zero tolerance” approach to crime this year as he highlighted several new crime fighting strategies geared towards tackling gun violence.
No new work permits for Haitian migrants until revised protocols introduced
LABOUR and Immigration Minister Keith Bell announced on Friday that no new work permits will be processed for Haitians until revised protocols are introduced to ensure the authenticity of documents produced by Haiti’s government.
Gov’t and insurers battling over VAT medical cost rise
The Government and insurance industry last night traded blows over fears that Bahamian healthcare costs will further increase due to a new VAT treatment set to take effect from April 1, 2023.
Crimes against the person increased by 23 percent last year
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander revealed on Friday that crimes against the person increased by 23 percent last year when compared to the same period in 2021, including murders, armed robberies and sex crimes that also trended upwards.
Immigration officer ruled to have sexually assaulted detainee
A SUPREME Court judge has ruled that an immigration officer falsely imprisoned, sexually assaulted and battered a Jamaican woman who was released into his custody eight years ago.
PM: HOSPITAL IS IN A CRISIS – ‘We will fix it’ says Davis as he highlights the need for action
PRIME Minister Philip Davis admitted Princess Margaret Hospital is in a state of “crisis” after a tour of the public health facility on Saturday.
War of words
IT IS not my practice to engage in lengthy correspondence with another through the pages of your newspaper. However, circumstances alter cases, and I find myself engaged in one with the Hon Fred Flag Burning Mitchell, me by letter to the editor and him by voice note on social media.
Artificial intelligence
ActivTrades
Artificial intelligence (AI) was an often-used word on Wall Street last week.
EU team assesses effort to build stronger exports
BAHAMAS Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) executives last week met with European Union (EU) officials in a bid to build a stronger exporting culture in this nation.
Give GB fresh start on nation’s 50th birthday
MY 2023 New Year’s wish for Freeport, Grand Bahama, is that the island is given a new start, and one that brings back full employment island-wide.
Primary school coaches get ready for basketball
IN preparation for their basketball tournament that will start today at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium, the New Providence Publics Primary School Sports Association hosted a two-day certification course.
Atlantis basketball official launch on February 6
THE Atlantis Basketball League’s 2023 official launch is set for February 6 at 6:30pm when there will be an opening ceremony at The Betty Cole Park. All games are open to the public and Atlantis staff for the entire season which ends April 28. Games will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6:30pm for the first game and 9:30pm for the final game of the day.
Track, field athletes Robynn, Charisma take spotlight
WHILE Robynn Rolle-Curry inked her name on another record-breaking performance on the track, Charisma Taylor soared high to victory in the women’s triple jump on the field as the duo led a list of Bahamians in action over the weekend for their respective colleges and universities.
Rockets knock off Giants 87-73, Express roll past Eagles 75-53
THE Discount Distributors Liquors Rockets and the Produce Express both had a big night on Saturday at the AF Adderley Gymnasium as the New Providence Basketball Association continued its regular season.
Mullings shatters his national record
A move to Illinois on January 1 to continue his training has already paid off big dividends for Bahamian national decathlon record holder Ken Mullings.
Passenger spending
I would appreciate you publishing my open letter to Mr Michael Bayley, CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.
Equal access to education for everyone
Please allow the publishing of this open letter to the Minister of Education & Culture
Friday, January 27
'Insufficient evidence' to proceed with investigation into claims against JoBeth Coleby-Davis
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said there is “insufficient evidence” to proceed with investigations into claims made against Housing and Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis.
Situation in Inagua 'stable' – no more migrants apprehended
ASSISTANT Director of Immigration Peter Joseph reported on Friday that the situation in Inagua is “stable” and officials have not apprehended any more migrants in the area.
Blood bank still low as call made for donations
OFFICIALS from Princess Margaret Hospital’s blood bank are appealing to the public to donate blood as supplies remain low.
UPDATED: All seven Bahamian diplomats airlifted out of Haiti
FRIDAY UPDATE: Seven Bahamian diplomats have been airlifted out of Haiti by helicopter and are now safely in the Dominican Republic.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Saying goodbye to little Loki
EVERYONE tells you they’re old, they’ve lived a good life, it’s time. They use the word time as if there were a place on the clock that says time to be born and time to die.
Azerbaijani man fined over $2k for overstaying and two counts of fraud
AN Azerbaijani man was fined in court yesterday after he admitted to defrauding two stores in Atlantis of a collective $340.95 and to overstaying in the country.
Grand Bahama Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority celebrate 115 years with a week of events
PI Upsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc in Grand Bahama marked the sorority’s Founders’ Day with a week of activities celebrating 115 years of sisterhood and service.
MOE to address teacher morale as many feel unappreciated
THE Ministry of Education plans to implement recommendations aimed at improving teacher morale based on findings from a survey of some 755 public school educators and literature research.
Teacher seeks counselling while parent is expected to be charged
THE parent involved in the recent incident at Central Eleuthera High School where a teacher was allegedly almost attacked has been arrested and will “hopefully” be charged, said Belinda Wilson, president of the Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) yesterday.
Search continues for Haitian migrants who landed on Andros on Wednesday
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force Commodore Raymond King said search efforts remain underway for some 60 Haitian migrants who were on board a vessel that illegally landed in South Andros on Tuesday.
Bell resists UN call to suspend deportations to Haiti as situation spirals out of control
DESPITE calls from United Nations officials to suspend deportations to Haiti, Immigration Minister Keith Bell said The Bahamas has “a job to do” to ensure that officials protect the country for Bahamians.
Hayward backs bid to ‘reimagine’ GBPA
A Hayward family member yesterday pledged “an ambitious masterplan for change” to create “thousand of jobs” in Freeport as he backed efforts “to reimagine and revolutionise” the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA).
Gov’t warns US airlines: ‘You won’t bully Bahamas’
THE Government Wednesday warned the US airline industry that it will “not bully The Bahamas into surrendering its sovereignty” over assertions that this nation’s air navigation fees are excessive and unjust.
Five-year verdict delay an ‘embarrassment to justice’
The Appeal Court’s president yesterday slammed the five-year delay in issuing a verdict on a $115,489 pension theft dispute as “an embarrassment to the administration of justice in this country”.
Appeal justice backs Condo Act reform call
An Appeal Court justice this week backed calls by a Supreme Court counterpart for reforms to the Condominium Act that will remove potential obstacles to the resale of units in such complexes.
Three separate shootings leave four wounded and one dead
POLICE are investigating three separate shootings that left one man dead and four others in hospital.
‘Labour on Campus’ Initiative seeks to assist students entering job market
THE Ministry of Education and Technical and Vocational Training, and the Department of Labour along with stakeholders including Government High School’s Class of 1983 are addressing the country’s skills gap.
Watson ‘not being paid’ for ZNS help
PRESS secretary Clint Watson vehemently denied claims that he has been appointed as a consultant at ZNS, insisting that he is only helping the state-owned broadcaster upgrade its news department.
‘We’ll seek to modify shanty town court order’
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis revealed he has spoken to Attorney General Ryan Pinder who is now seeking to go back to court to get clarity on an existing shanty town injunction and to try to modify it to ensure officials can stop the growing numbers of illegal developments in the country.
FTX’s Bahamas creditors say minimal sums owed
Multiple Bahamian companies identified as FTX creditors yesterday asserted that the purported sums owed to them were minimal to non-existent.
Snacks providers seeking more sugar, salt tax detail
AN ICE cream parlour yesterday said it is “getting into the swing” of things for 2023 despite talk of the Government implementing new taxes targeting sugar and salt.
Regulators, millionaires win double header
THE Leno Regulators and the Mekaddish Millionaires won the New Providence Basketball Association’s double header played on Wednesday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.
Veteran marathoner to raise funds for MD Patient Navigation
Veteran marathoner Ebbie Jackson wants to do all she can to help raise funds to assist those dealing with cancer.
Riley has ‘great experience’ at Korn Ferry tournament
IT wasn’t the performance he anticipated, but Cameron Riley said he was thrilled to have been afforded the opportunity to participate in his first Korn Ferry tournament.
Police investigating after copper theft in Freeport
GRAND Bahama police are investigating the theft of copper cable wires worth $24,000 at a business in Freeport.
Two men granted bail in connection with $100k Inagua drug bust
TWO men were granted $30,000 bail in court yesterday after allegedly being found with $100,000 worth of cocaine uncovered on a mailboat in Inagua last week.
Two men charged with Defence Force officer’s murder
THREE men were charged in court yesterday in connection with two separate murders, including the death of an RBDF officer.
Baseball dream comes true for Sebastian Walcott
WHILE he didn’t get to play professional basketball, Jeff Walcott was happy to see his son Sebastian Walcott’s dream of playing professional baseball come true.
Mental illness or possession
The print media published some months ago a tragic incident involving a mentally ill individual who was put down by law enforcement officers in New Providence. I believe that it was in December that the Senate rubber stamped the Progressive Liberal Party’s Mental Health Bill (2022), which repealed the Mental Health Act of 1969.
Rentokil: No raccoons are killed
I wish to respond to a letter you have featured in your letters to the Editor,
Thursday, January 26
Tanks being built to tackle water problems in Eleuthera
WATER and Sewerage Corporation officials confirmed yesterday that construction of two tanks with 200,000 gallons of water per day capacity is underway in Eleuthera and will be completed by the end of February to improve the water supply on the island.
STATESIDE: Political grandstanding and distractions expected as US Congress grapples with debt and spending
THERE seems to be so many distractions in the US these days, even as an ominously deepening war in Ukraine threatens truly dire consequences.
EDITORIAL: Bodycams are a tool - but the system is broken
THE latest police shooting has seen divided claims between the family of the young man who died, 18-year-old Kwondrick Lowe, and police officers.
Grief counselling ‘very important’ in sudden unexplained infant death cases
SUDDEN unexplained infant deaths (SUID) have unfortunately been the heart-breaking reality for some parents, however, Dr Valencia Johnson is urging people not to put the blame on themselves.
Project to offer safe housing for displaced families
THE Ministry for Grand Bahama will undertake more renovation projects in the Freeport area through its collab unit to provide safe transition housing for displaced families.
Super yacht ambitions to boost cruise port margins
Nassau Cruise Port’s chief executive is optimistic that its “super yacht destination” ambitions and full opening will significantly improve operating income margins that are currently among its parent’s lowest.
FTX US chief moves to ratify Bahamas co-operation deal
FTX’s US chief last night moved to ratify the co-operation agreement thrashed out with the crypto exchange’s Bahamian joint provisional liquidators to end two months of bitter public clashes.
Fiscal Council’s reports ‘not a flip of the switch’
A Fiscal Responsibility Council member yesterday said there was nothing sinister about the body’s delayed publication of two key reports, and asserted: “This is not a flip of the switch.”
BID is ‘missing piece’ of downtown’s puzzle
The Downtown Nassau Partnership’s (DNP) co-chair says the creation of an authority to truly manage the city is “the missing piece of the puzzle” with his group having achieved “80 percent of what we set out to do”.
‘Good time to be a seller’, says realtor
A Bahamian realtor yesterday said it is a “good time to be seller” as the demand for properties valued under $500,000 has generated numerous inquiries from prospective purchasers.
‘Stop the strays by spaying and neutering your pets’
WITH an influx of stray dogs roaming the streets of New Providence, Bahamas Alliance for Animal Rights and Kindness (BAARK) is urging people to consider spaying and neutering their pets.
41 migrants held after landing in Andros
FORTY-ONE migrants were apprehended in Andros yesterday after officers launched a manhunt for passengers of a Haitian wooden sloop that landed in the southern part of the island late Tuesday evening. In a statement released yesterday morning, the Immigration Department said they were alerted that a Haitian sloop ran aground in The Bluff area.
Three in hospital after Abaco shooting
Police on the island of Abaco are questioning a 29-year-old man from the island in connection with a shooting incident that left three men in hospital in serious condition.
Man in hospital after West Street shooting
Police are investigating a shooting incident that has left a 28-year-old man of West Street in hospital.
Teachers anger after ‘near-attack’ by parent
TEACHERS at Central Eleuthera High School stood in solidarity with one of their colleagues who was allegedly almost “attacked” by a parent, according to Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) president Belinda Wilson.
Help for CB Moss’ recovery
THE family of Rev Dr CB Moss received a $1,500 donation towards his recovery yesterday.
Inagua ‘needs a proper detention facility’
THE large number of migrants being detained in Inagua has highlighted the need for a proper detention facility on the island, according to residents there, who say the government has to stop “dragging their feet” on the issue.
POLICE PROBE OVER FOOTAGE OF ARREST: Officer seen kicking man in head as he lies on the ground
THE Complaints & Corruption Branch of the Royal Bahamas Police Force is investigating the conduct of two officers during an arrest of a man.
FRONT PORCH: Dysfunction, decay and dilapidation in Bahamaland
ON ITS website, the Ministry of Tourism boasts of Cable Beach: “This beach is world famous for its fabulous sand and crystal waters and for the myriad upscale resorts that line it.
Bahamas Hope Challenge returns in March
BAHAMAS Hope Challenge (BHC) returns to Eleuthera from 10 to 12 March for its annual fundraiser with the goal of adding to the more than $4 million it has raised toward fighting cancer in The Bahamas over the past 17 years.
NM Valentine Cox dominates The Bahamas National Chess Championship
NM Valentine Cox dominated the 2023 Bahamas National Chess Championship, winning the prestigious event with an impressive 8 out of 9 points.
Bahamas Scholastic Athletic Association basketball results
THE following games were played at The Hope Center on University Commons on Tuesday.
Small businesses step up to sponsor Carifta Games
A GROUP from the stock exchange and small businesses, including Sawyers Studios, Arawak X and Tropical Gyros, stepped forth on Wednesday to pledge their sponsorship of the 50th Carifta Games.
Pat Strachan backs call for Elisha Obed to be honoured
PAT “the Centreville Assassin” Strachan, president of the Bahamas’ Retired Boxers Association Hall of Fame, concurred with Wellington Miller that it’s high time that former World Boxing Council Everette ‘Elisha Obed’ Ferguson get the proper recognition that he deserves posthumously.
ROLLE-CURRY ROARS AHEAD FOR DRAGONS: MSUM school 400m record is broken twice in two weeks
ALTHOUGH she just started competing in the 400 metres when she joined the Dragons track team at Minnesota State University at Moorhead in Minnesota, Robynn Rolle- Curry has excelled as one of the top contenders in the USTFCCCA.
Chinese President speaks at CELAC
THE PRIME Minister of The Bahamas, Philip “Brave” Davis, returns from the seventh summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) today.
Bail granted to woman in cash theft case
A WOMAN was granted bail in court yesterday after being accused of stealing $2,492.60 from another woman.
Man accused of stabbing
A MAN was granted $5,000 bail in court yesterday after being accused of stabbing another man in the back last December.
17-year-old denies assaulting officer
A TEENAGE boy was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest while at the court complex earlier this month.
Money, money, money
As a former Love Beach owner, I read with much sadness the articles about the wanted Passion Point development.
Tattered flag at OPM
Haven’t driven west for a while but had reason to today as we start the celebration for the 50th anniversary of taking Independence and we are for the coming six months chair of CARICOM one would have thought where our proud national flag flies it would be fresh - not faded and not tattered?
Abuse of animals
We have recently seen a large billboard from Rentokil advertising raccoon removal with an endearing picture of the animal.
Why would killing raccoons be okay?
It has come to my attention that some people in Abaco and Nassau have decided it is ok to hunt and eat raccoons.
Growing cruelty to animals
Please allow your valuable space to express the utter disgust toward the RENTOKIL sign mounted on Shirley Street across from the old Gleneagles Hotel.
Water Corp eyes upkeep slash through electric vehicle spend
THE WATER and Sewerage Corporation yesterday said it is investing $100,000 in acquiring electric vehicles as part of a strategy to slash $4m-$5m in annual auto maintenance costs.
Poultry producer gains $40k solar finance help
An Abaco poultry producer yesterday disclosed it has received a $40,000 “small climate grant” to finance the installation of solar energy at its farm.
‘Be careful how world eyes Freeport change’
THE GRAND Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday warned that the Government must pay attention to how its actions are perceived by potential investors as it strives for major in Freeport’s governance.
Don’t allow preparation to become procrastination
Starting a business can often be a worrisome decision, especially if you have never done it before. It is so easy to spend months, or even years, researching best practices to avoid potential pitfalls. But procrastination can also be just as big a hindrance to becoming an entrepreneur, especially if all your friends and family will be watching and you do not want to be viewed as a failure.
Wednesday, January 25
ALICIA WALLACE: Anti-Haitian sentiment rooted in white supremacy
LAST week, in response to questions about shantytowns in Abaco, Member of Parliament for Central and South Abaco John Pinder said: “We’re gonna lose our father’s place. Our ancestors settled there[…]”
Labour Minister Bell: Unemployment statistics have not been forthcoming
LABOUR Minister Keith Bell admitted yesterday that statistics on the country’s unemployment rate have not been as “forthcoming” as he would like.
EDITORIAL: Action on Haiti needed - but what?
THE issue of immigration is once more in the headlines, whether it is in Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ speech in Argentina, in the renewed talk of action on shanty towns - or in the inflamed rhetoric of some who would choose to drum up support for their political posturing through hate.
Grand Bahama residents divided on Moxey’s performance
STRAW vendors and taxi drivers in Grand Bahama have mixed views on calls from Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard for Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey to be removed.
Call for extension for paid maternity leave
ACTIVIST Alicia Wallace is calling for paid maternity leave to extend beyond the current 13-week period for mothers following the recent deaths of two infants in the past week.
Minister optimistic over incentive talks with doctors
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said he is optimistic that the agreements that officials are negotiating with the junior doctors as well as the consultant doctors are “fair”.
Migrants on Cay Sal may be repatriated this week
THE Immigration Department hopes to repatriate nearly 400 irregular migrants being housed in Inagua as early as Friday, its assistant director said yesterday.
'Right track': Gov't push for big GBPA shake-up
The Prime Minister yesterday said the Government is in talks with the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) to place Freeport "on the right track" as it pushes for a major shake-up in the city's governance.
Construction chief challenges minority foreign owner block
The Bahamian Contractors Association's (BCA) president has challenged whether the Government can lawfully bar a foreign investor from becoming a minority partner in a local construction company.
AID 'most concerned' over BPL rate hikes
A major Bahamian retailer yesterday voiced optimism that 2023 will be "marginally better" than last year while revealing it is "most concerned" about Bahamas Power & Light's (BPL) rate hikes depressing consumer spending.
BTC contractors seek better working terms
Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) contractors yesterday asserted they have been without valid employment contracts since June 2022 as they demanded improved working terms and conditions.
SBF: Bahamas attacks motivated by prejudice
Sam Bankman-Fried planned to mount an impassioned defence of The Bahamas before the US Congress by implying that attacks on it over FTX's implosion were motivated by racism and prejudice.
Learning the ropes to take up maritime career
A TEAM of maritime cadets have been training in Canada.
‘More detail’ needed on tax proposal
COMPANIES that supply food and drink are questioning the government’s plan to implement new legislation that will create a tax for sugar and excess salt as well as try to eliminate trans fats being imported into the country, with one general manager saying there are “negative consequences anytime they move any piece on the chessboard”.
No answer on police body cams
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said yesterday he could not confirm if police officers had on body cams during a police-involved shooting on Saturday.
Medical team sent to test captured migrants
A TEAM of nurses and doctors was sent to Inagua yesterday to start the necessary health screening of nearly 400 migrants captured in waters near Cay Sal over the weekend, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said yesterday.
HAITI CRISIS ‘A RISK’ SAYS PM: Davis says instability poses a substantial threat to Bahamas
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the crisis in Haiti poses a substantial threat to The Bahamas due to an increase in irregular migration.
Officials searching for migrants after Haitian vessel runs aground in Andros
Officials are searching for migrants after a vessel from Haiti ran aground in The Bluff, South Andros on Tuesday night.
Charlton and Cartwright star at Larry Wieczorek Invitational
ALTHOUGH she doesn’t have a major indoor championship to compete in this year, national record holder Devynne Charlton said she’s pleased with her progress so far in the women’s 60 metres hurdles.
Giants and Eagles win the NPBA’s double header
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants and the RC Liquors Eagles won the New Providence Basketball Association’s double header played on Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.
Call for government to honour boxer Elisha Obed
LONG time close friend Wellington Miller is calling for an honour for the late Everette ‘Elisha Obed’ Ferguson, the first and only Bahamian to win a world boxing title, during the 50th celebrations of the Independence of the Bahamas.
Two wins and strong finishes for Mingoes at Neville Wisdom Classic
THE University of The Bahamas Mingoes picked up two wins to go along with other strong finishes at DTSP Wolfpack’s Neville Wisdom Classic at The Thomas A Robinson National Stadium Saturday.
Mingoes lose on penalties after 5-5 thriller
THE University of the Bahamas Mingoes Men’s Soccer side was knocked out of the Bahamas Football Association Hummel Cup competition, losing to Dynamos 5-4 in penalty kicks after the match ended with a 5-5 tie.
Modernisation of healthcare needed
Please allow me space in your daily to express a concern. It is said that the Health of a Nation is the Wealth of the Nation. If this is to be taken literally, then we are not amongst the wealthy.
Man jailed for role in sex attack
A MAN charged in connection with a recent home invasion and abetting the sexual assault of a woman was sentenced to 24 months prison in court for a separate stealing charge.
Two years in jail over loaded gun
A MAN was sentenced to two years in prison yesterday for the seizure of a loaded firearm last November.
Bail warning for suspect
A MAN was warned and released from custody yesterday after admitting to having a faulty electronic monitoring device (EMD) while on bail on two murder charges.
Downtown revitalisation being unfair?
Where is the fairness? Please permit me to offer a few comments relative to remarks reportedly made by Mr Michael Maura at the recent Bahamas Business Outlook regarding the state of waterfront properties to the east of East Street north connecting Bay and the expectation that the movement of shipping operations away from Bay Street along with the attendant tax breaks and concessions, would encourage the owners of these properties to undertake improvements.
Minister wants to speed up unemployment data
A CABINET minister yesterday said he wants accurate unemployment data, and details on new hirings, to be obtained much faster, following recent government-sponsored job fairs.
Gas stations explore going cashless move
GAS stations may become cashless in the near future as they seek to drive greater efficiencies beyond long-running negotiations with the Government over a margin increase, it was revealed yesterday.
Tuesday, January 24
PETER YOUNG: European trade unions flex their muscles amid rising inflation
THE extent to which industrial action by militant trade unions is currently causing chaos across Europe may come as a surprise to some. But it is, I think, worth examining as a sign of the times.
FACE TO FACE: Leading light in American football for The Bahamas
AMERICAN football has yet to become as big as it could be in The Bahamas. Even though thousands of Bahamians energetically follow the NFL and anticipate the Superbowl, football is not a major sport in this country.
Officer calls for fair treatment for disabled
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Theophilus Cunningham said it is important that disabled individuals are treated fairly in society.
Pintard: Davis should reshuffle unsuitable Cabinet ministers
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard has called on Prime Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis to consider shuffling his Cabinet, saying it is quite evident that several ministers are unsuitable for their portfolios and should be reassigned to roles better suited to their skills or replaced entirely.
BPSU agreement for salary rise signed
THE Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) and Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) signed an industrial agreement that includes a series of incremental salary increases over three years and increases in rental allowance.
Abaco residents voice concerns over shanty towns
ABACO residents are outraged by the growth of unregulated shanty towns, saying the issue has been out of control for some time.
Mother of man killed by air rifle believes incident was not an ‘accident’
THE mother of a man who was shot while a co-worker was reportedly trying to clear a rifle wants answers about the death of her eldest son.
Ann Marie Davis calls for more help for victims families
LOCAL advocacy group Families of All Murder Victims yesterday honoured the families’ 20 victims, with the day being proclaimed FOAM Day after a ten-year fight by the group’s founder.
IDB visits renewable energy installations
AN Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) delegation has toured solar installations in New Providence and Abaco as part of an $89m project to revamp this nation’s energy sector.
Gov’t battling for $13m VAT on cruise ship sale
The Ministry of Finance’s top official yesterday asserted “there’s no dispute” that the Government should receive a near-$13m VAT windfall from the sale of two cruise ships despite a legal challenge by their secured lender.
Agent ‘unsuccessful’ again on FamGuard conspiracy claims
A former Family Guardian sales agent has been “largely unsuccessful” in her bid to obtain greater damages from the BISX-listed insurer which was again cleared on “conspiracy” to injure by unlawful means”.
Village Rd ‘can see finish’ following up to 70% losses
Village Road businesses yesterday said they can “see the finish line” on year-long roadworks that have caused sales revenue to plummet by up to 70 percent.
Insurers: ‘Everyone will pay’ if storm cover unaffordable
Bahamian insurers yesterday warned that “everyone will have to pay” if hurricane coverage becomes increasingly unaffordable with the issue representing a growing public policy “dilemma” for the Government.
Opportunity to join The Tribune
The Tribune is seeking an enthusiastic sports reporter to add to its team.
Government moving quickly to implement sugar and salt tax
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville revealed officials plan to implement new legislation that will create a tax for sugar and excess salt as well as try to eliminate trans fats being imported into the country.
Man in court over death of Teneisha
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday in connection with the tragic death of three-month-old Teneisha Tanya Mifort who was left in his care while the child’s mother was at work last week.
Blood banks ‘in critical state’
PUBLIC Hospitals Authority managing director Dr Aubynette Rolle said yesterday that the country’s blood banks are in a “critical” state.
Three years with no inquests into police shootings
THE near three-year absence into police-involved shootings has stirred anger in some family members who say they are still searching for answers on their loved ones’ deaths.
‘MY SON RAN SO WHY SHOOT HIM?’: ‘Youth engaged police’ say officers - as family wants camera footage
THE distraught mother of 18-year-old Kwondrick Lowe, who was killed in a police-involved shooting on Saturday, believes her son “ran for his life” when he saw the officers.
Top golfers move on to Great Abaco Classic event
FOLLOWING a magnificent showcase of high-level golf skills at last week’s PGA Korn Ferry Tour/Great Exuma Classic, top golfers moved on to the Korn Ferry Tour/Great Abaco Classic in Great Abaco, where they will continue the battle for 30 PGA TOUR cards and $28 million prize in money.
Frank Rutherford Close subdivision unveiled
ON Friday, executives of Arawak Homes, headed by Sir Franklyn Wilson, along with Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg and other dignitaries, unveiled the new subdivision, Frank Rutherford Close, on Pine Barren Road, Prince Charles Drive.
Spectacular debut for Red-Line Athletics in Texas
THE Red-Line Athletics’ 20-plus member team made a spectacular debut at the Texas Tech High School over the weekend in Texas.
Professional contracts for four I-Elite players
Programme aiming to expand operation
SINCE the inception of the International Elite Baseball Academy in 2012, coaches Geron Sands and Albert Cartwright have not just signed players to professional baseball contracts, they have also secured athletic scholarships to high school and colleges in the United States.
‘Technical education revolution needed’
A veteran educator believes that more must be done to provide technical training to young people so they can take advantage of opportunities in Grand Bahama and The Bahamas.
BTC mishaps?
I think that BTC has completely lost the plot now.
Alternatives are needed to reach source of crime
It has become very clear that we are losing the war against crime despite the idea that things are under control; and what is nerve wracking is that the year has just begun. The crime rate is climbing, and we are crossing into dangerous waters.
Three accused in separate murders
THREE men were charged in court yesterday in connection with three separate deaths in the nation’s capital in the past two months.
Grocers chief: Food prices to remain high
FOOD prices will remain high in the short to medium-term, the Retail Grocers Association’s (RGA) president warned yesterday, amid little sign that inflationary pressures are easing.
Baby boy aged three months dies at daycare
POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a three-month-old boy who was found unresponsive at a local daycare centre yesterday.
Monday, January 23
WORLD VIEW: Peru troubles highlighting unease across South America
MANY countries in South America are now in a state of troubling unease. Recent events in Peru have catapulted it to the forefront of security concerns in all its dimensions. But worry also exists about other countries which are tiptoeing through political minefields that could explode overnight.
THE KDK REPORT: A house divided
SEVERAL years ago, a palliative nurse in Australia wrote a book detailing the top five regrets of individuals on their deathbed.
INSIGHT: How we can honour Kenise and help save others
THE tragic story of Kenise Darville has been in the spotlight over the past few days and many are wanting to know why we can’t do better when it comes to the care we offer our citizens.
Digital future planned for the public service
THE Ministry of Public Service announced on Friday that it is aiming to revamp and digitalise the public service in an effort to improve operational efficiency.
Public clinics to go cashless, says minister
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville announced the ministry’s plans to create a cashless system at public clinics.
EDITORIAL: All quiet over Onego Traveller recovery operation
SINCE the cargo ship the Onego Traveller sank in waters off Abaco on December 29, there has been a curious absence of information from the government about salvage and remediation efforts.
Ministry warning after Lincoln Bain video
THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised the public that no citizen or non-Bahamian should allow themselves to be questioned and detained by someone unless that person is a law enforcement officer.
Entrepreneur hopes cruise giant’s PI ‘invasion’ ending
A Bahamian entrepreneur has voiced renewed optimism that Royal Caribbean may be halting its “invasion” of his leased Crown Land after it purportedly submitted a revised proposal for its $110m Paradise Island project.
Marinas: Online portal closure is ‘step back’
The Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) president says the industry has “taken a step back” through the closure of its online clearance portal with charter demand for this nation down 30 percent compared to the Caribbean.
Minister: We need to refocus in health system
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said there needs to be a refocus on the art of medicine in the health system.
Nurses union seeks to hold new vote
BAHAMAS Nurses Union President Amancha Williams said there were some issues during the union’s election last week as a result the group is hoping for another vote.
‘I feel lost without little Teneisha’
THE grieving father of the three month-old that died while being cared for by a family friend is pleading for answers surrounding his daughter’s death, adding he feels “crushed” and “lost”.
Insurer warnings over 15-20% premium hike
Bahamian households and businesses were yesterday warned insurance premiums could increase “across the board” by 15-20 percent this year as underwriters pull back from covering waterfront and Family Island risks.
Minnis: We have an immigration crisis
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday urged the Davis administration to get a grip on illegal immigration, saying “we are now experiencing an immigration crisis”.
Man killed in conflict with police
A MAN who allegedly engaged police in the Kemp Road area on Saturday was killed by officers in the incident.
PROBE INTO DEATH OF MOM-OF-3: Father in tears as claims made of hospital negligence
AN investigation has been launched into the death of Kenise Darville, a mother-of-three who died days after posting a heart wrenching video on Facebook about the alleged negligence and poor healthcare she experienced at Princess Margaret Hospital.
Age is but a number
Attorney Jeanne Thompson answered Minister Mitchell very well. Ms Thompson you may have to give knitting lesson though!
Mitchell’s comments ‘unacceptable’
I am persuaded that the Hon Minister Frederick Audley Mitchell (PLP-Fox Hill) is one of the best National Chairman which that party has ever had, with the stark exceptions of the late Andrew ‘Dud’ Maynard and the irreplaceable Hon. Bradley Roberts. They were political giants and living legends in their hey day. Brother Mitchell has some big shoes to attempt to fill.
‘Clean-up batter’ signs with Cards
Andru Arthur, known as the “clean-up batter” for the International Elite Baseball Academy’s travelling team, was the last of four signees of professional contracts during the month of January.
‘Big C’ Delancey goes to Red Sox
DOMINIQUE Collie felt he could not have signed a more deserving player to the Boston Red Sox than International Elite Baseball Academy’s shortstop Chad Delancey.
Grace Komolafe qualifies for CARIFTA in the high jump
ALTHOUGH she competed in a younger age group, Grace Komolafe emerged as the lone qualifier for the 2023 Golden Jubilee CARIFTA Games at the DTSP Wolfpack Track and Field meet at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium on Saturday.
Jailed for attempting to sell cop’s body armour
A MAN was sentenced to five months in prison on Friday after admitting to trying to sell a policeman’s body armour he said he found while housesitting.
IC Tennis Doubles: USA’s Robins team takes top spot
THE Bahamas International Tennis Club’s 2023 Doubles Championships came to a close on Friday at the Nassau Lawn Tennis Club with the United States of America’s Robins team beating the USA Bluebirds 3-2 to take the top spot.
PRIME MINISTER VISITING ARGENTINA SUMMIT
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis is presently in Argentina attending a regional summit.
BAARK! Annual Powerade Potcakeman Triathlon set for March 5
BAARK! - Bahamas Alliance for Animal Rights and Kindness - has announced the date for its annual Powerade Potcakeman Triathlon.
60-year-old man dies in police cell
A MAN died in Central Police Station yesterday while being held on a stealing charge.
Man dies as air rifle discharged
A MAN was shot and killed by a co-worker on Saturday who was attempting to clear a high-powered air rifle, police said.
DEREK SMITH: A firm’s greatest assets can also be major risk
People can be a company’s most valuable asset if well-managed, but also represent a significant risk. Defending, equipping and motivating this critical asset requires human resources (HR) and risk management to break down silos and collaborate. To address the inherent risk posed by human capital, a human resources/ employee risk assessment must be considered.
Water Corp’s $84m taxpayer subsidy three times’ budget
TAXPAYER subsidies to the Water & Sewerage Corporation in 2022 hit $84m, more than three times the sum budgeted, as the state-owned utility seeks to develop a plan that makes it financially viable.
2022 mixed for Out Island resort targets
FAMILY Island resorts experienced a mixed 2022 in terms of hitting their collective targets as they closed in on a return to pre-COVID business volumes, a top tourism official has confirmed.
Is Tesla a car maker or a tech company?
ActivTrades
Being the world’s richest man is not for everybody. It takes a blend of determination, hard work and talent.
396 Haitians on intercepted vessel
THE United States Coast Guard intercepted a vessel with 396 Haitians on board near Cay Sal Bank yesterday.
Friday, January 20
Investigation launched into death of Kenise Darville
AN investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the death of Kenise Darville, who died days after posting a live video on Facebook about the alleged negligence she experienced at the Princess Margaret Hospital.
Buckeye Bahamas Hub sponsors a child for a year at Grand Bahama Children's Home
Buckeye Bahamas Hub has committed to covering the yearly cost to care for one child at the Grand Bahama Children’s Home through the “Sponsor-a-Child” initiative.
Three in court on ammunition charges
A MAN and two women were granted bail in court on Friday after being accused of having 27 unfired rounds of ammunition.
Man charged with housebreaking and stealing
A MAN was sent to prison on Friday in connection with a housebreaking in Eleuthera earlier this month and theft of $4,460.
Bank hopes for more Sand Dollar uptake
A CENTRAL Bank official said the institution has plans to get the country’s commercial banks on board with the use of the digital Sand Dollar this year to increase uptake with the general public.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Double decker curiosity – The lawyer behind the novel red bus restaurant and what drove him to do it, a zany twist in the road
ON a sliver of land, not much more than 50 feet wide and maybe 100 feet long, on Shirley Street in Nassau, sits a red double decker bus just like those you see in London.
One Eleuthera Foundation: A culture of giving in The Bahamas
DO Bahamians really give back like they should? As simple as this question sounds, it’s more nuanced than we think. In my line of work, there are a lot of conversations about philanthropic giving in The Bahamas, and recently, I heard the sentiment again that “Bahamians don’t give back as they should”. It got me thinking about invoking a discussion around how we drive more local giving in The Bahamas.
EDITORIAL: Crime rising to top of government agenda
THE first 18 days of this year have been marked with nine murders. A murder every other day.
Bahamas aviation fee defence ‘a red herring’
US airlines yesterday slammed the Government’s “red herring” defence of an air navigation system that allegedly costs just 1 percent of the fees charged by The Bahamas.
FTX: False statements were made to ‘diminish’ Bahamas
A former FTX senior attorney yesterday alleged that “false statements” were made in legal filings to “diminish” The Bahamas after the crypto exchange was advised this nation should be the main venue for its liquidation.
Downtown revival strategy ‘fell short’
Plans to revive downtown Nassau “fell short” because not enough focus was placed on the redevelopment of waterfront properties by their owners, Nassau Cruise Port’s chief executive admitted yesterday.
More ‘teeth’ required to halt copyright stealing
A cultural economy advocate yesterday demanded a copyright law with more “teeth” as she urged Bahamians to stop stealing the creative works and intellectual property of others.
Regulation woes dismissed as ‘nothing further from the truth’
A Bahamian attorney yesterday hit back against assertions that the country’s financial services sector is poorly regulated following FTX’s implosion, arguing: “Nothing could be further from the truth.”
Search for four people after man assaulted and robbed
Police are searching for four people who assaulted and robbed a man shortly after 11pm on Thursday.
1,400 mangroves planted in Abaco
MORE than 1,400 mangroves have been planted in Abaco this week as part of the Northern Bahamas Restoration Project.
Eco-tour company back after Dorian
AN eco-tour company has resumed its tour operation in East Grand Bahama following the long road to recovery since Hurricane Dorian.
100 youths enlist in guard scheme
NEARLY 100 young people from throughout the country that have enlisted in the Bahamas National Youth Guard programme are in Grand Bahama for three months of training at the Police College in Freeport.
The first of many Phoenix Awards
THE Government High School Alumni Association held its inaugural Phoenix Award presentation on Saturday at the University of The Bahamas Performing Arts Centre.
New home delight as Bahamians receive keys
FIVE Bahamians received keys to their new homes yesterday in the newly unveiled Frank Rutherford Close, an Arawak Homes subdivision off Prince Charles Drive.
China gives $170,000 of medical equipment
CHINA has donated three containers of supplies to help Princess Margaret Hospital.
George Smith: We must do more to help poor
A FORMER Cabinet minister is adamant that more must be done to help people escape the shackles of poverty.
‘Church must have say on marital rape’
BISHOP Walter Hanchell said legislators cannot deny the church “its say” on the issue of marital rape in response to some who criticise the government for continued consultations on the matter.
‘We are dealing with immigration problem’
DESPITE some critics saying the government is not doing enough to clamp down on illegal immigration, Prime Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis insisted yesterday that his administration is addressing the problem.
PM SETS OUT TOP THREE PRIORITIES: Economy, education and crime leading government agenda
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said his administration will focus on three key areas over the next 12 months: the economy, education and crime.
Red-Line Athletics track team arrives safely in Texas
MEMBERS of the Red- Line Athletics track team have arrived safely in Texas where they will be competing this weekend at the Texas Tech Under Armour High School Invitational.
AOS gold partner for the 50th Golden Jubilee CARIFTA Games
LEADING by example as they put their “money where their mouth is,” Accounting Outsource Services Limited came on board as a Gold Partner for the 50th Golden Jubilee CARIFTA Games.
USA Robins blank Barbados 5-0, USA Bluebirds hold off Bahamas 3-2
THE International Tennis Club’s Bahamas IC Doubles Week will come to a close today at the Nassau Lawn Tennis Club.
Sand Dollar rout Zulu Media 96-64, Cyber Tech top Mekaddish Millionaires 82-80
THE New Providence Basketball Association continued its regular season action at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Wednesday night.
Cavaliers: ‘We are like that’
Mt Carmel senior boys basketball team earn 47-45 win over Akhepran in double overtime
COACH Wilton Johnson and his Mt Carmel Preparatory Academy Cavaliers senior boys’ basketball team had something to prove last night at the Hope Centre.
‘It was such a short time to lose both of them’
LESS than one month after her mother passed away, Kenise Symonette-Darville followed in the footsteps of Zella Symonette-Brown when she died at Princess Margaret Hospital on Thursday.
Devaughn Robinson doesn’t make the cut
Devaughn Robinson fell short in his bid to make the cut for the first leg of the Korn Ferry Tour that got started this week at the Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma.
Demand’s 40% surge drives Doctors revenue $2m higher
A 40 percent "surge" in private healthcare demand has driven Doctors Hospital's average monthly revenues some $2m higher than pre-COVID levels, its chief financial officer revealed yesterday.
Scotia: 95% gone online amid ‘lousy’ service claim
SCOTIABANK (Bahamas) will this year test mobile banking technology capable of serving all Family Islands, its top executive said yesterday, with 95 percent of customer transactions now conducted online or at ABMs.
Cruise industry blasted on environmental ‘subterfuge’
THE CRUISE industry was yesterday blasted as “bad actors” that engage in “tricks and subterfuge” rather than addressing their environmental impact and pollution incidents head on.
IAN FERGUSON: Making sure the price is right
Pricing your goods and services should never be a wild guessing game. When you are reasonably new to business, though, it can feel like a loaded task. There are any number of factors to take into account, such as how much you are spending on supplies, how much your time is worth, and more. Your pricing structure will also ultimately set the tone for your small business.
Mental evaluation ordered after arson attack on home
A MAN was ordered to have a mental evaluation yesterday after being charged in connection with a recent home arson.
$4,500 fine for man over marijuana find
A MAN was fined $4,500 in court after admitting to having 2.5lb of marijuana shipped to him under someone else’s name.
Bail granted over death of brother’s alleged killer
A MAN was granted bail by the Supreme Court yesterday in connection with the alleged murder of a man he says killed his brother.
Doctors at PMH, where is your care?
I write this letter with a heavy heart as Iearn of the passing of my dear friend, Kenise Darville. She was a patient at Princess Margaret Hospital at the time of her passing on Thursday, January 19.
Immigration problem needs continuous enforcement
The headline in The Nassau Guardian dated 13/1/23 reads “Harbour Island’s Migration Woes” Bahamians, in particular residents of Harbour Island must be concerned for their security, safety, health and peace of mind after reading the contents of the article, the revelations of the Member of Parliament and Chief Councillor. The video describes a situation, that is unsafe, insecure and unhealthy for Harbour Islanders, residents and visitors.
Thursday, January 19
Countdown to 50 is on
The 50th Independence logo and theme was officially unveiled at an event in Rawson Square on Thursday night.
200 jobs available as IHOP nears opening
SOME 200 local jobs will be available for Bahamians at the Department of Labour’s latest job fair this weekend in partnership with the IHOP franchise, said Labour officials yesterday.
STATESIDE: Prime Minister’s message at Atlantic Council was consistent and clear
WE are accustomed to viewing prominent Bahamian politicians on our own television broadcasts, listening to them on the radio and reading their words in our newspapers. Consequently, it’s always intriguing to witness the appearance of a predominant Bahamian figure in an unfamiliar, foreign context.
FRONT PORCH: Women and the struggle for power, equity and respect
THE home of Mizpah and J Egbert “Bertie” Tertullien in Blue Hill Estates brimmed with books. There were shelves of books on politics, psychology, economics, social sciences, literature – especially West Indian and African literature – and other topics. Ideas and current affairs were exuberantly and spicily debated at the Tertulliens.
Police chief concern over bail decisions
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said police are looking forward to a good year working with legal officials with a view of taking individuals off the street who continue to offend and get bail.
EDITORIAL: When will Village Road construction be complete?
IT seems a long time ago when we were assured that the roadworks on Village Road would be completed in time for the start of the school term. Perhaps we should have asked which school term.
Eleuthera residents left in dark after power failure
SOUTH Eleuthera residents are frustrated with failure of the power supply that has left them without power since early Tuesday morning.
‘Enormous amounts’ of oil still at Equinor site
AN appeal is being made to the government to be vigilant concerning the oil spill clean-up at the Equinor South Riding Point plant in East Grand Bahama.
One in five in region cannot afford healthy diet
MORE than 130 million people in Latin America and the Caribbean cannot access a healthy diet, according to a United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization report.
Minister: Bear with us over bed shortages
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville yesterday asked the public to “please bear” with his ministry as officials seek to address bed shortages at Princess Margaret Hospital and also carry out repairs at the facility.
Abaco MP warns of ‘boiling point’ over shanty towns
CENTRAL and South Abaco MP John Pinder said government must act now to deal with unregulated shanty towns in Abaco as the issue is about to reach a “boiling point”.
Human rights group calls for end to fearmongering
LOCAL advocacy group Human Rights Bahamas said every person within the jurisdiction of The Bahamas has a constitutional right to freedom from discrimination, harassment, and intimidation.
Bahamas must ‘bite demon in butt’ over food insecurity
The Bahamas must “bite the demon of food insecurity in the butt”, an agriculture entrepreneur urged yesterday, after it was revealed that close to one in five residents recently suffered from limited access to food.
Tighten ‘exit strategy’ on failed FDI projects
A prominent realtor yesterday argued that The Bahamas must craft a robust “exit strategy” for when major foreign direct investment (FDI) projects “go south”, adding: “Surely we’ve learned from our mistakes?”
More than 100 extra police in training
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said more than 100 new recruits will be in training for the next five months and half of those will be assigned Downtown to the cruise port in New Providence.
‘Not competitive’: Marina boss sees 20% Xmas fall
A Nassau marina operator yesterday blamed increased taxation for a near-20 percent decline in Christmas yacht traffic, and warned: “We’re not competitive with anywhere else in the Caribbean.”
Briland resort enjoys 33% revenue surge
A Harbour Island hotelier yesterday said the Christmas holidays were “bananas as usual” with December 2022’s revenues 33 percent ahead of pre-COVID comparisons for that month.
‘Leave before we deport you’
IMMIGRATION Minister Keith Bell issued a stern warning yesterday to people living in the country illegally “to wind up” their affairs and leave immediately or face deportation.
‘I HEARD MY SON SCREAM FOR HIS LIFE’: Defence Force Officer murdered in his car
THE mother of a 30-year-old Royal Bahamas Defence Force officer who was shot and killed early yesterday morning said she heard her son scream for his life.
Psychological test for theft accused
A MAN was ordered to get a psychological evaluation yesterday after being accused of a failed purse snatching earlier this week.
Pandemic effects on the region
The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, climate change, and the general economic slowdown have brought the fight against food insecurity to the forefront of global public debate. Latin America and the Caribbean is not on the sidelines of this situation.
Independence ...from what?
I must once again give a salute to the amazing Lady Pam Burnside. She states the truth that this country will never move forward until the majority of the people are elevated to receive the goodness and richness of our land. Majority is ruled, rather than given the power to rule. It is blatantly evident that the oligarchy and the rich still wield the heavy hand in this land.
Nine months in jail over marijuana smuggling
A JAMAICAN was sentenced to nine months in prison yesterday after admitting to smuggling marijuana into the country in cereal boxes.
Woman must repay $922 stolen from employer
A WOMAN was ordered to repay her former employer yesterday after admitting to stealing $922 from a gaming house in Long Island last year.
Aliv comes on board as CARIFTA sponsor
With a cheque of $289,000, Aliv came on board as the official broadcast sponsor of the 50th Golden Jubilee CARIFTA Games, all set for the Easter holiday weekend at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
Gladstone Road firms aim to avoid Village Road’s fate
GLADSTONE Road businesses yesterday voiced optimism they will avoid the same fate as their Village Road counterparts when their own roadworks start as a similar outcome could cut commerce by 50 percent.
Construction ‘collapse’ if all undocumented workers lost
THE Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday said the construction industry would “collapse” if the Government deports every single undocumented worker in its latest threatened Immigration crackdown.
Minister leads Bahamas team at energy summit
A BAHAMIAN delegation headed by Cabinet minister, Vaughn Miller, travelled to Abu Dhabi to promote this nation’s renewable energy ambitions.
IC Bahamas: USA Bluebird, Barbados in the win column
THE International Tennis Club’s 2023 IC Doubles Championships continued yesterday at the Nassau Lawn Tennis Club with the United States Bluebirds and Barbados winning the two matches played.
Gibson Jr prepares for England
BY virtue of making the cut for the 2023 Latin American Amateur Championships in Puerto Rico, Richard Gibson Jr has secured a berth in the British Amateur Championship.
Sports notes
OSSIE ‘the Sports Insider’ Simmons is back with his usual rankings for the senior boys’ high school basketball competition.
Red-Line Athletics Track Club all set for Texas Tech Under Armour High School Invitational
A TOTAL of 22 athletes, comprising 11 boys and 11 girls, make up a contingent of coaches and parents from the Red-Line Athletics Track Club, who are off this weekend to compete in the Texas Tech Under Armour High School Invitational.
IC Bahamas: Americans making impact
THE Bahamas has always been a special place for American tennis player turned instructor and administrator Robert Castorri.
Wednesday, January 18
ALICIA WALLACE: Embracing the spirit but losing the message?
ON January 13, a large bronze sculpture dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King was unveiled in Boston. Twenty feet long and 26 feet wide, titled “The Embrace”, it is meant to depict the Kings hugging, inspired by a photograph of the two after Dr King received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
EDITORIAL: Prime Minister presses climate change message
IT was a busy day for Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday.
Bell rounds on critics over immigration
IMMIGRATION Minister Keith Bell yesterday branded comments from critics that the government is not doing enough to address the illegal immigration problem in the country as completely “disingenuous”.
PM presses case for climate change action
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis said that resiliency and funding are the answers to the climate woes of the Caribbean.
Realtor hails $1bn property sales ‘first’
A realtor yesterday hailed the $1bn in property sales his firm handled in 2022 as a “first” in The Bahamas, and asserted he would “be very surprised” if any rivals were close to matching this performance.
Bran: Price control switch ends pharmacy ‘beating’
The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) former leader yesterday gave “thanks to God” that the pharmaceutical industry’s lower-margin price control regime has ended, adding: “We took a little bit of a beating on that.”
Union leader targets liveable wage talks within two years
A trade union leader’s call for livable wage talks to begin by 2025 was yesterday met with scepticism by private sector representatives who argued that such a move will “only put businesses further under”.
Bahamas saves 25% of FTX assets from ‘dumpster fire’
FTX’s implosion was yesterday branded a “dumpster fire” as it was revealed that 25 percent of recovered international digital assets are in the Bahamian Securities Commission’s safekeeping.
Roadworks-hit businesses seek Gov’t ‘follow through’
Village Road businesses were last night said to be awaiting “follow through” by the Government after the two sides met on Monday to discuss their proposal for roadworks relief and compensation.
Learning loss assessment starts next month
THE Ministry of Education announced the start of the learning loss assessment tests for next month in partnership with a private international learning analytics company.
Munroe: Zero tolerance towards rogue officers
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said yesterday that he has a zero-tolerance approach towards “rogue” officers.
Record number of repatriations last year
THE government repatriated 4,748 migrants last year, which was the highest number of repatriations ever, Labour and Immigration Minister Keith Bell said yesterday.
Brief disruption in air traffic service
AIR traffic controllers returned to work after a brief disruption yesterday.
Coalition gives govt ‘14 days’ to act on migration
MEMBERS of the Coalition of Independents protested outside the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday over what they term to be an immigration crisis in the country.
Girlfriend of murder victim ‘broken’
THE girlfriend of a 24-year-old man who was killed in Abaco on Monday said she is “broken”, adding the victim was at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Father of three killed on way to work – one of three shooting deaths in 24 hours
A FATHER of three was shot and killed in his car yesterday morning while on his way to work – one of three shooting deaths within 24 hours.
Pregnant mother of Bella in jail awaiting sentence
A PREGNANT mother was sent to prison yesterday to await sentencing for allowing her boyfriend to beat her four-year-old daughter to death in 2021.
PMH ‘crisis’ as no room for patients
THE president of the Bahamas Nurses Union is sounding the alarm about a “crisis” in Princess Margaret Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department (A&E), telling this newspaper the area has no space to keep some patients.
ARREST AFTER BABY’S DEATH: 29-year-old man held following infant being found unresponsive
POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an infant girl who became unresponsive while in the care of a family friend on Monday.
$170m project must stop Exuma’s south ‘dying out’
EXUMA’S private sector says the $175m Torch Cay project is urgently needed to prevent the island’s southern end from “dying out”.
IC Tennis: Team USA shut out Bahamas 5-0
THE United States Robins’ team pulled off another impressive victory, this time shutting out the Bahamas 5-0 in a couple of hard-fought tennis matches.
BAIC deal’s pay terms will not be retroactive
THE Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation’s (BAIC) newly-signed industrial agreement with the union representing its line staff will not be made retroactive to cover the five-year negotiating period, officials said yesterday.
It’s official: Janero signs with Marlins
Two years after he started playing baseball as a “late bloomer” at age of nine, Janero Miller said it was always his dream to become a professional player.
Lobster hunting
We heard probably now nearly a year ago that the popular US fast food restaurant chain had been granted a franchise for The Bahamas and a group was going to cloud fund the project. If I recall some $1.8m plus was announced had been placed.
Bahamian distillery eyes ‘robust’ 2023
A BAHAMIAN rum producer yesterday said business is “definitely up” compared to pre-COVID levels and is predicting a “robust” 2023 performance.
Gibson makes the cut, Kane falls short in Puerto Rico
IN his second trip to the 2023 Latin American Amateur Championships, Richard Gibson Jr finally got the international breakthrough he was looking for, making the cut in the four-day tournament in Puerto Rico.
Bahamas Chess National Championship heading for an exciting showdown
THE 2023 Bahamas Chess National Championship is heading for an exciting showdown as competitors try to stop NM Valentine Cox from attaining a sweep of the big event.
Breyias Dean, Daniel Gaitor going to Miami
IT was a double treat for Breyias Dean and Daniel Gaitor as they both signed their professional contracts with the Miami Marlins organisation yesterday at the Crypto Isle in the former Luciana Restaurant.
Price fixing after the pandemic
The softwood industry is continuing to cut back production, while the prices of those products it produces domestically continue to rise to levels not seen in many years.
Pharmacies waiting on price control impact
BAHAMIAN pharmacies yesterday said it was too early to determine the financial impact after three-month, lower-margin price control regime came to an end.
Indecent exposure charge
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of being found naked as he trespassed on Margaritaville on Christmas Eve.
Man accused of raping woman
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday in connection with the sexual assault of a woman that took place last week.
Sex case suspect remanded in jail
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday accused of abetting the sexual assault of a woman during a home invasion earlier this month.
Montagu billboards
While continuing to beat a horse after it has succumbed is a waste of time I know. But it is said that a dripping tap, left long enough, can drill a hole through a concrete block.
Will Fred take his own advice?
Is it too much to Hope that the Hon Fred Jetson Mitchell will take his own advice, and, as a mature person in public life fly off into the sunset and leave the governance of the nation to a younger generation?
Tuesday, January 17
Prime Minister meets with Vice President Kamala Harris
Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis met with Vice President Kamala Harris at The White House on Tuesday to discuss a number of issues facing The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean region.
PETER YOUNG: Is history repeating itself for the Royal Family?
HAVING written only last month about the ructions following the Netflix documentary purporting to tell the story of the life together of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, there is a danger of repetition in returning to the subject today. But, given the huge fallout from the subsequent publication of Prince Harry’s explosive memoir entitled “Spare”, which is reported to have become the fastest-selling non-fiction book ever in the UK, it is hard to ignore it all together.
FACE TO FACE: Rhonda Wright’s health and wellness journey is paying off
RHONDA Wright has been one of the major advocates for healthy lifestyles in The Bahamas for many years. She has pushed for her fellow countrymen to see the value in a vegan lifestyle long before it became the cool trend it is now. She has been in the trenches - an unsung heroine in health and wellness - committed to reversing the staggering statistics for non communicable diseases in The Bahamas.
Residents ‘in survival mode’
RESIDENTS of the Bain and Grants Town community are in survival mode as some have tried to make ends meet by any means necessary.
‘Local workers can’t get work ahead of foreigners’
A GROUP of Central Andros residents have expressed frustration over alleged unfair hiring practices on the island, saying local workers cannot get any jobs because contractors are hiring foreigners instead.
FNM: What now for NIB?
THE Free National Movement is going to seek to get a full briefing from Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis on what has been decided concerning the National Insurance Board’s contribution rate, FNM leader Michael Pintard said yesterday.
Hot Mix and CFAL’s chief in GB airport bid
A well-known Bahamian contractor and local financial analyst were yesterday said to have partnered on a bid to transform Dorian-ravaged Grand Bahama International Airport.
FTX’s Bahamas liquidators beaten to $143m by DOJ
The bid by FTX’s Bahamian liquidators to take control of $143m held in US bank accounts was rendered “moot” - at least temporarily - after the assets were seized by the US federal authorities.
GB airport not enough for ‘diamond in rough’
A hotelier yesterday said “it’s about time” that the “diamond in the rough” which is Grand Bahama gets polished as he warned that fixing the island’s airport will not be a cure-all for its multiple challenges.
Developer: ‘All this waiting is Bahamians not working’
A Bahamian businessman is hoping work on a $63m New Providence real estate development can start this month, adding: “All this waiting is persons not working who could have jobs.”
PM hails Bahamas relations with China
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis hailed relations between The Bahamas and China as he spoke at the observance of the Chinese Lunar New Year festival on Thursday last week.
Wheelchair donation a gift of hope
CHINA donated 15 wheelchairs to The Bahamas in a ceremony on Friday.
Teachers back in class after Eleuthera protest
TEACHERS from Preston Albury High School in Eleuthera have gone back to the classroom after they, along with parents, protested earlier this month, Acting Director of Education Dominique McCartney-Russell said.
Finlaysons fail to escape $2.8m loan default liability
A prominent Bahamian businessman and his son yesterday failed to escape paying the outstanding $2.763m balance on a defaulted loan that was secured on their high-end yacht.
Pintard wants receipts over Bermuda trip
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said in the absence of receipts from the Progressive Liberal Party regarding repayment to the Public Treasury for a controversial Bermuda trip last year, he cannot be sure that the figure provided by the government’s press secretary last week is true.
Man shot dead in Abaco
Police are searching for a lone gunman after a man was shot dead in Abaco on Monday night.
AG: Don’t be reckless on cases of pollution
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder yesterday cautioned Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard to be mindful “not to make reckless forecasts” as to what may be awarded this jurisdiction for environmental damage in connection to two shipping incidents that took place last year.
‘GOVT STALLING ON MARITAL RAPE LAW’: Activists say women’s rights are not being treated as a priority
WOMEN’S rights activists have accused the government of “dragging its feet” on marital rape legislation, suggesting the Davis administration is stalling with ongoing consultations.
Dame Marguerite
Seems she did not receive an “official invitation” - who organises the national events? Cabinet Office and mostly Ministry of Foreign Affairs - suggest possibly the plot thickens here and now - so Foreign Affairs who invites presumably omitted Dame Marguerite.
VAT on health
INFLATION....did anyone notice like me that Health Insurance Premiums have gone up 12-14%?
Cut the ceremony and get on with it
Official opening of Assize in Nassau of The Supreme Court surely should suffice and the repeat ceremony in Grand Bahama is just fanciful political artificiality?
Winner turns loser
AN American man lost his casino winnings and faced a $500 fine in court yesterday after admitting to lying to a US officer at LPIA by saying he had $15,000 when he actually he had $49,200.
Boy admits possessing rifle
A 15-YEAR-OLD was sent to the Simpson Penn Centre for Boys yesterday after admitting having a loaded high-powered rifle in the nation’s capital last week.
Basketball results
BASKETBALL results for Monday, January 16. Games were played at The Hope Center on University Commons. Mini Division
Jonquel Jones traded to New York Liberty
It’s now official. After spending the past seven seasons in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) with the Connecticut Sun, the 29-year-old Grand Bahamian native Jonquel ‘JJ’ Jones has packed her bags and is now with the New York Liberty.
Poor show for visiting tourists
I recently went on a Royal Caribbean cruise with a group of friends from Cayman and the United States. One of the stops was in our own Nassau, Bahamas. We were actually advised to leave our valuables and cash on the ship if we got off in Nassau!
Police probe in possible suicide case
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged suicide of an elderly Caucasian man.
Man quizzed after victim shot outside his residence
POLICE are questioning a 26-year-old man of Dunmore Street in connection with a recent shooting that has left a 24-year-old Rupert Dean Lane man in hospital.
Phones, drugs and weapons in prison contraband
CELL phones, shanks, drugs, Wi-Fi boxes and other contraband were confiscated by law enforcement in an overnight joint operation at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.
Two years in jail over drugs and ammo
A MAN was sentenced to two years in prison yesterday after being found with 50 rounds of unfired ammunition and 13oz of marijuana in his Kennedy Subdivision home last week.
Shooting suspect remanded
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday in connection with a shooting on Key West Street last month that left one man dead and another wounded.
USA dominate as International Tennis Clubs Doubles Week gets underway
THE International Tennis Clubs Doubles Week, featuring veteran retired tennis players from around the world, got underway yesterday at the Nassau Lawn Tennis Club with the United States showing their dominance in the two matches they played.
Janero Miller signs with Miami Marlins as pitcher/outfielder
ALTHOUGH he was considered a late bloomer at the age of nine, Janero Miller will achieve one of his goals of becoming a professional baseball player at the age of 17.
Freedom Farm Baseball League enjoys opening day
ON Saturday, the Freedom Farm Baseball League held its opening day festivities.
Monday, January 16
WORLD VIEW – Abolition of work permits: an example for regional integration
IT HAS been interesting to read the responses in Editorials and Opinions in some regional media, concerning the decision by the two main political parties in Antigua and Barbuda to abolish work permits for nationals of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries and the Dominican Republic.
THE KDK REPORT: In fairytales we dream
MANY beloved fairy tales were morbidly gruesome in their original connotation. Sleeping Beauty, for example, was unconscious when she was savagely raped by the king. Then, to add to the heinous nature of the act, he murdered his wife hoping to be with the woman he assaulted when she awoke. Soldiers were told to cut out Snow White’s liver and lungs to feed to the evil queen. In retribution, she was forced to dance at Snow White’s wedding in burning hot iron shoes until she died.
INSIGHT: Questions remain unanswered over Bermuda PLP trip
THE curious tale of the Progressive Liberal Party’s trip to Bermuda resurfaced in public this week – and despite it being several months on from the event, the official line has still failed to nail down all the answers.
EDITORIAL: Antigua and Barbuda move opens up CARICOM future
WHAT does CARICOM mean to you? The question is particularly relevant at the moment, with Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis assuming the role of chair of CARICOM, taking over from President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, of Suriname.
‘Mentally ill’ prisoner dies after fight in cell
A “MENTALLY ill” prisoner died after complaining of chest pains following a fight at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services on Friday.
That takes the cake - egg prices soaring
SEVERAL local bakeries have expressed frustration over the “incredible” rise in the price of eggs, among other items, in grocery stores on the island.
Stop ‘abandoning’ Budget projections
The Government must “stick to” its fiscal forecasts and stop treating the Budget “as an annual exercise” if it is to build much-needed investor confidence, a Bahamian banker is warning.
Western Air ‘implores’ overflight fee peace
A Bahamian airline is “imploring” the Government and its US counterparts to resolve their overflight fee dispute without impacting its ability to fly to America and “unreasonably disadvantage” its business model.
Developer takes ‘Passion’ to his Love Beach project
A prominent Bahamian developer is taking his “Passion” to Love Beach with plans to construct two seven-storey condo buildings that will in total feature 61 three-bedroom units.
PM to discuss national security issues at the White House
Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis will visit the White House tomorrow to discuss issues of national security, including illegal migration and gun trafficking, with US Vice President Kamala Harris.
Mixed emotions
ActivTrades
The upward trend in the stock market continued into 2023 for a second week. The reporting season in the US traditionally starts with the balance sheets of the large financial institutions. However, their quarterly figures were mostly worse than expected.
Motorcyclist killed in vehicle collision
A 34-YEAR-OLD motorcyclist died after a traffic accident in Dundas Town, Abaco, on Friday.
Woman taken to hospital after being shot by police
POLICE shot a woman during a car chase that ended in an accident in Grand Bahama yesterday.
Stay wrapped up as cold lingers
YOU should keep your blankets and warm clothes handy as weather officials said the cool weather from a passing cold front will last for another few days.
Murder victim ‘known to police’
A man who was known to police in connection with a previous murder was shot dead yesterday in the Flamingo Gardens area.
‘Minister must resign’ over taxi plates issue
THE head of the Bahamas Taxi Cab Union is calling for Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis to resign, claiming that her decisions since assuming office have caused utter “chaos” and “turmoil” in the industry.
Workers’ hours cut back at some gas stations
GAS station operators say they remain in “wait and see” mode over their requested margin increase and are hoping that the government will make a decision within the first quarter of this year before the sector is forced to cut staff.
$60M ‘LOST’ IN POLLUTION FINES: FNM leader says the govt failing to act on environmental laws
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said the country stands “to lose up to $60 million in uncollected fines” because the Davis administration has failed to act on environmental laws and punish polluters.
NPBA: Tucker Boys beat Giants 57-56, Eagles top Rebels 76-60
THE New Providence Basketball Association continued its regular season action at the AF Adderley Gymnasium over the weekend with a pair of games played on Friday and Saturday night.
CARIFTA standards attained at T-Bird meet
AT least four athletes attained the qualifying standards for the 50th CARIFTA Golden Jubilee here over the Easter holiday weekend, while there were several record-breaking performances as the T-Bird Flyers concluded its two-day meet at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium on Saturday.
Athletes shine in the USA
As the collegiate indoor track and field season officially got underway over the weekend around the United States, a number of athletes - coming off injuries and making their debut for their respective schools - shined in their individual events.
Bail granted for suspect in hotel room theft case
A MAN was granted $7,500 bail in court on Friday after he was accused of entering a tourist’s hotel room and stealing over $1,000 in cash.
Spin, spin, spin
One thing with the Davis Administration they are good at spinning events and so-called political interventions – the redundancies at Freeport Container, a perfect example.
Requests for repairs unanswered
There is something that having the environment around you, especially the derelict and rundown state of anything can and does to the human psychic, which in the least is not encouraging and even Father God has a major problem with this kind of tolerance.
Yet more pain for businesses
Despite the compulsory pain Bahamas Customs put small businesses through just a few short years ago with “Click to Clear” (which was anything but clear by the way. Months of training and numerous glitches, repetition, etc. in which finally most small business got “use”), here we go again with mass increase in business expense.
Brokers sceptical on Customs chief’s ‘better than sliced bread’
Customs brokers remain sceptical that requiring them to fully integrate with the electronic import clearance system will be “the best thing since sliced bread” with many still viewing the move as “totally unnecessary”.
Gov’t urged: ‘Drill down further’ on Business Licence suspicion
The Government must “drill down further” and obtain greater evidence to confirm its suspicions that many companies are under-reporting annual turnover to evade full payment of Business Licence fees.
Friday, January 13
Grand Bahama to have third full-time judge in May
ANOTHER Supreme Court judge is expected to start serving on the bench in Grand Bahama on May 1, Chief Justice Ian Winder announced in Freeport on Friday.
Contract negotiations between UTEB and BTVI reach impasse
CONTRACT negotiations between the Union of Tertiary Educators of The Bahamas (UTEB) and the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) reached an impasse when both parties were unable to reach an agreement on workers’ salaries, UTEB President Daniel Thompson said Friday.
American visitor fined for bringing recreational marijuana into the country
AN American cruise visitor was fined in court on Friday after admitting to bringing recreational marijuana into the country.
Rev C B Moss remains in medically induced coma
REVEREND C B Moss remains in a medically induced coma after collapsing during the Majority Rule Day church service at St Agnes Anglican Church on Tuesday.
Man charged with threatening to kill police officer
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court on Friday after allegedly threatening to kill a police officer.
Man sentenced to six months of anger management classes
A MAN was sentenced to six months of anger management classes after admitting to unlawfully entering a home and assaulting a man and woman there.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Stop looking at immigration as a problem that needs to be solved instead of an opportunity that needs to be seized
EVERY day, thousands of people desperate to escape persecution, war, famine, violence or just in search of a better life flee their home countries. They pile into overcrowded makeshift boats or rafts. They cross harsh terrain with whatever possessions they can carry on their back, many with young children at their side, even in below freezing temperatures.
Arrest in connection with abduction and rape; police investigate shooting incident
A 24-year-old man is in police custody after he reportedly abducted and sexually assaulted a 29-year-old woman on Thursday.
Man admits stealing $22k from business
A MAN was remanded to prison after admitting to stealing over $22,000 in cash from a business in the Berry Islands earlier this week.
Repair programme to start this month
DISASTER Reconstruction Authority executive chairman Alex Storr confirmed that the Small Homes Repair programme is set to begin this month with some 200 homes in Grand Bahama and Abaco.
Govt ‘working on Family Island facilities’
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said yesterday that officials are working actively to build and renovate health facilities in the Family Islands.
Freedom of Information ‘not on the shelf’ but no date yet
PRESS secretary Clint Watson said the Davis administration is still committed to full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, which, he said, is “in the process of being launched”.
Bahamas: $176m aviation income ‘just and equitable’
The Bahamas’ plan to generate $176m from the first five years of its new overflight fees regime was defended to US aviation regulators as “just and equitable for all air space users”.
Businesses are warned: Stop ‘lying’ on turnover
The Government’s tax collection chief yesterday voiced scepticism that fewer than 20 percent of businesses meet the VAT registration threshold, and demanded the private sector “be truthful”.
‘Go-to’ contractor faces worker payment probe
A contractor, which advertises itself as “fast becoming the go-to” builder at Abaco’s Baker’s Bay development, was yesterday confirmed to be under investigation for alleged non-payment of Bahamian workers.
Customs to ‘vigorously pursue’ illegal alcohol
Customs’ top official yesterday pledged to “vigorously pursue” persons smuggling alcohol or selling it without the permission of Bahamian companies who have sole local distribution rights.
Govt investigates after Abaco workers unpaid since September
THE government has launched investigations into allegations that a number of Bahamian workers contracted by an international company to do work at Baker’s Bay, Abaco, have not been paid since last September.
18 illegal immigrants apprehended on Inagua
Police on Inagua apprehended 18 illegal immigrants on Thursday.
Three students fall ill after eating suspected marijuana cookies
A 16-year-old female student is assisting police with their investigations, after she allegedly brought and sold cookies infused with suspected marijuana on a school campus in North Eleuthera.
Pharmacies hopeful new price controls ‘cease’ next Tuesday
Pharmacies are voicing cautious optimism that their lower-margin price control regime could end as early as next Tuesday with the industry also pushing for a reduction in work permit fees.
New COVID variant may be in country
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said yesterday the latest COVID-19 variant may be in the country, adding officials are still waiting for confirmation.
Bermuda PLP trip cost ‘paid in full’
THE Progressive Liberal Party has fully reimbursed the Public Treasury for Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ controversial trip to Bermuda last year, Press Secretary Clint Watson said yesterday.
$170M RESORT PLAN IN EXUMA: Hundreds of jobs are expected in Torch Cay project
THE Davis Administration signed a heads of agreement yesterday with PMR Bahamas for the development of an upscale resort and residential community for Torch Cay on Exuma’s southern tip, with a $170m investment planned.
$3,500 fine for breaching curfew
A MAN was fined $3,500 by the court yesterday after admitting to breaching his curfew while on bail for the alleged shooting of an off-duty police officer in a botched mugging in 2016.
Jailed for 18 months over $400k of marijuana
A MAN was sentenced to 18 months in prison yesterday after admitting to having $396,000 worth of marijuana in his home.
Whose business is this?
Recently the print media has been reporting, albeit anonymously, divorce/family proceedings held in the Supreme Court. Such reporting appears to be novel as over the years one rarely expected to read about proceedings held in the family division of the Supreme Court.
Whitewashing Majority Rule
Recently, I listened attentively as a 5th grade student gave the meaning of the colours in the Bahamian flag. She said that the black in the flag stands for the strength of the Bahamian people. I was surprised by this. When I attended school during the tumultuous 1980s, we were told by our teachers that the black stood for Black Bahamians. Nothing in the flag represents the White minority.
T-Bird Flyers Track Classic this weekend
THE T-Bird Flyers Track Classic will be the first meet out of the gate as the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ 2023 season officially gets underway this weekend at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.
Mt Carmel senior boys 3-1 after 37-32 loss to Genesis Academy
COACH Wilton Johnson and his Mt Carmel Preparatory Academy Cavaliers senior boys’ basketball team’s winning streak came to an abrupt halt yesterday at the Hope Centre.
International tennis teams to join Bahamas for IC Caribbean Doubles Week Championship
INTERNATIONAL tennis teams from USA, Barbados and Canada will be joining The Bahamas team for the sixth bi-annual International Tennis Clubs (IC) Caribbean Doubles Week Championship from Monday, January 16 to Friday, January 20.
Boy arrested after gunshots alert
A 15-YEAR-OLD boy was arrested after he was found with a high-powered weapon on Wednesday.
Junior tennis players headline New Year’s tourney
JUNIORS in two age categories, U14 and U16, participated in the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) New Year’s Tournament from January 7-10 at the National Tennis Centre.
IAN FERGUSON: Creative ideas to bring new businesses online
As people survey the world’s current business and political landscape, many are leaning towards entrepreneurial pursuits. And it should not be surprising that most new small business ideas in 2023 will involve an online model.
Scotia chief’s ‘Outlook’ on technology solutions
SCOTIABANK (Bahamas) top executive yesterday said he will focus on technology solutions for the country’s financial services access ills at next week’s Business Outlook conference.
‘We will crack down on illegal alcohol sales’
CUSTOMS Comptroller Ralph Munroe yesterday warned that his department will be going after people who do not have distribution rights to sell alcohol after receiving several complaints that some businesses have been selling the beverages illegally.
Inaugural Phoenix Awards to be held
THE inaugural Government High School Alumni Phoenix Awards will be held tomorrow at the University of The Bahamas Performing Arts Centre.
Minister pays visit to Island School
MINISTER of the Environment and Natural Resources Vaughn Miller and a delegation from the ministry recently toured the Island School in South Eleuthera.
Two men accused over stolen immigration stamp
TWO men were granted bail after denying having a stolen Bahamas Department of Immigration stamp.
GHS Magic slow down RM Bailey Pacers 39-33
While the RM Bailey Pacers senior girls prevailed over the Government High Magic, the Magic senior boys avenged the defeat by knocking off the Pacers in their Government Secondary Schools Sports Association double header at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium yesterday.
Thursday, January 12
STATESIDE: Circus over McCarthy’s bid for House speaker
THE circus atmosphere surrounding the dogged efforts by California congressman Kevin McCarthy to become the new speaker of the US House of Representatives was widely mocked and derided in various American news media.
FRONT PORCH: Person of the Year 2022
WOMEN ACTIVISTS, THE ONGOING STRUGGLE FOR EQUALITY
IT IS a lazy misnomer and misread of world and Bahamian history to repeat the cliché that women were “granted” the right to vote. It was not a grant or gift. Women fought ceaselessly, organised, were jailed, ostracised, went on hunger strikes, were mocked – and sometimes died in demanding and seizing the right to vote.
EDITORIAL: Wait for marital rape legislation goes on
THE long, slow progress toward legislation on marital rape seems to be continuing.
DPM: More health facilities needed in Exuma
DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper said yesterday there is a need for more health facilities on Exuma.
Government searching for site for New Providence hospital
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said yesterday that the government is actively reviewing potential sites for a new hospital in New Providence.
Pintard: Majority rule is for all Bahamians
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard criticised the Progressive Liberal Party for not promoting the fact that Bahamians of “all walks of life” participated in majority rule.
Government hopes to seal BPSU deal - despite ‘disadvantage’
THE Davis administration hopes to conclude ongoing industrial agreement negotiations with the Bahamas Public Service Union this month, despite the union saying the government’s latest proposal puts its members at a “disadvantage”.
Chief Justice defends judiciary
CHIEF Justice Ian Winder yesterday defended the work done by the courts, saying it is irresponsible for people to attack the judiciary and say they are responsible for all that ails the criminal justice system.
‘Implement FOIA and rape law’
BAHAMAS Bar Association president Khalil Parker once again urged the full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, and called for action on Bahamian citizenship rights and said that there is “no place” for rape in the country or in marriage.
Bahamian charters fear of ‘devastating impact’
Bahamian charter operators yesterday warned that being cut-off from the US due to the dispute over this nation’s overflight fees regime will have “a devastating impact” on their ability to survive.
Broker integration vital to end $50m Customs loss
The Ministry of Finance yesterday asserted that broker “integration” with Customs’ systems is vital to eliminating more than $50m in annual revenue losses amid a continuing dispute over whether such requirements are lawful.
‘All back to normal’ assures airport authority
THE chairman of the Airport Authority yesterday allayed fears of further flight delays in New Providence following delays at the airport last week and international reports of grounded flights in the United States due to computer outages.
Bell defends efforts to curb rise in migrants
Immigration Minister Keith Bell yesterday defended the government’s efforts in handling irregular migrants amid a significant influx of people from Haiti and Cuba to The Bahamas.
Remediation ‘continuing’ on sunken ship
THE Transport and Housing Ministry said yesterday remediation efforts of the sunken Onego Traveller ship off Abaco are continuing, adding 3,119 tons of steel coils and 4,505 tons of Ferix in bulk remained submerged.
Man held over sex attack in home invasion
A MAN is in police custody in connection with a recent home invasion and sexual assault, according to Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander.
Rev Moss stable in hospital
THE REV CB Moss is in stable condition in hospital after he collapsed on Tuesday at a Majority Rule Day service at St Agnes Anglican Church.
'We need a new court complex’
CHIEF Justice Ian Winder has reignited calls for the construction of a new modern court complex, saying the time for a “complete judicial complex” has long passed as current facilities are ill suited and in a state of disrepair.
Wilchcombe: Marital rape law consultation done ‘in weeks’
SOCIAL Services Minister Obie Wilchcombe said officials are hoping to have consultations wrapped up regarding marital rape legislation in the next several weeks.
‘Sooner the better’ over BPL base rate increase
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chief executive yesterday warned the utility’s base tariff rate must ultimately increase to offset “diminished returns”, adding: “The sooner, the better.”
POLICE QUESTION FORMER MINISTER: Officers quizzed Lanisha Rolle as part of investigation
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander confirmed that officers questioned former Cabinet Minister Lanisha Rolle and her husband yesterday as a part of their investigations into the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.
Pindling name fades in the PLP
I wasn’t surprised that Dame Marguerite Pindling took the opportunity on Majority Rule Day to publicly upbraid executives of the Progressive Liberal Party for the perceived wrong done to her late husband’s name.
Sports notes
THE Bahamas Football Association will kick off its night league play this weekend at the Roscoe Davies Development Centre at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
BAAA will be ready for 50th Golden Jubilee
ALTHOUGH there are a number of international events on their agenda for 2023, Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations president Drumeco Archer said they are making sure that they are ready for the hosting of the 50th Golden Jubilee CARIFTA Games.
Insurance gold sponsor for the CARIFTA Games
WITH their cheque presentation of $50,000, NUA Insurance Agents & Brokers became a gold sponsor of the 50th Golden Jubilee CARIFTA Games over the Easter holiday weekend.
Mystic Marlins bite up Cobras
Coach Kevon Spence said he felt his Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins were in a 10-round heavyweight main event fight against the CC Sweeting Cobras.
Three accused of carjack and kidnap
THREE men were remanded to prison yesterday in connection with a recent armed carjacking when a man was kidnapped and had $1,130 stolen from him.
Don’t fear relapses on New Year resolutions
The year’s start is the perfect time to turn a new page, which is probably why so many people make New Year’s resolutions. It feels like a fresh start, and a great opportunity to change bad habits and establish new routines that will help spiritual, emotional, physical and intellectual growth.
Registrar General moves to finalise ‘data migration’
OFFICIALS from the Registrar General’s Department (RGD) will travel to the Cayman Islands next week to “finalise the migration of data” to a new online portal as efforts to digitise its companies section ramp up.
Wednesday, January 11
ALICIA WALLACE: Crime and corporal punishment
OVER the past few days, in addition to the usual crime reports, there have been stories about the need to address what the prime minister called a “serious a chronic problem”.
EDITORIAL: An apology demanded for a rift long in the making
A RIFT appeared very publicly in the ranks of the Progressive Liberal Party – given voice by Dame Marguerite Pindling.
Roots wants Junkanoo judging change
MEMBERS of The Roots have called for the “abolition” of Junkanoo’s “flawed” judging system, adding it is overdue to be changed.
Woman accused of child neglect
A MOTHER was granted $5,000 bail on Monday after being accused of neglecting her six children last week.
Bahamas requires $16bn economy ‘to make sense’
The Bahamas must grow its economy to $16bn, expanding its size by around one-third, if its future is “to make sense” in the absence of government austerity, a governance reformer urged yesterday.
Fishermen urge: ‘Spare no expense’ on sunken vessel
Bahamian fishermen have urged the Government “to spare no expense” in preventing any environmental damage from the sinking of a cargo vessel off south Abaco just prior to the New Year.
Second US aviation group calls for Bahamian airline sanctions
A second aviation industry group yesterday backed calls for sanctions to be imposed on Bahamian airlines flying to the US unless this nation reforms its allegedly “unjust” overflight fees.
‘Future generations and youth let down’ over NIB
The National Insurance Board (NIB) must be given more independence from government, a pension specialist urged yesterday, adding: “Successive administrations have let the youth and successor generations down.”
$233m IMF rights can’t be viewed as ‘panic exercise’
The Government must not allow its borrowing of $233m in IMF Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) from the Central Bank to be perceived as “a panic exercise”, a Bahamian commercial banker has warned.
Pregnant Bahamian woman killed in US
A FATHER is trying to cope after the tragic killing of his pregnant daughter in America last week, who, he said, went to the United States for a better life for herself and her family.
Halt to elective surgery at Princess Margaret Hospital
PRINCESS Margaret Hospital has temporarily suspended elective surgeries that require overnight stay due to limited bed capacity because of ongoing ward renovations among other issues, health officials confirmed on Monday.
Rev Dr CB Moss collapses at church service
REVEREND Dr C B Moss, a long-time advocate for the Over-the-Hill community, is hospitalised after collapsing during the Majority Rule Day church service at St Anges Anglican Church yesterday.
Mitchell blasted by Dame Marguerite
DAME Marguerite Pindling caused a stir yesterday when she demanded an apology from Progressive Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell as she publicly accused him and the PLP for using a Majority Rule Day event at her husband’s grave as “a stepping stone”.
Waiting for RBC
Calling if not the leading commercial bank one is told calling their Client Service there might be a delay – what is a reasonable delay I have to ask?
Small businesses facing struggle on NIB rate hike
BAHAMIAN small businesses will struggle to absorb any National Insurance Board (NIB) contribution rate increase due to the multiple other expenses hikes they are grappling with currently, a sector consultant has warned.
Roadwork-hit businesses seeking ‘come back to Village Road’ boost
A “COME back to Village Road” incentives package is needed to revive businesses that have been damaged by the year-long roadworks impacting that corridor and the surrounding area, an entrepreneur is arguing.
Bell and Farrington win golf title
THE fourth edition of the Cancer Society of the Bahamas charity golf tournament saw the team of Andrew Bell and Marcus Farrington emerge as the champions on Majority Rule Day yesterday at the Baha Mar resort’s Royal Blue Golf Course.
Fox and Isaacs Jr encourage each other
AS childhood friends, Lucius Fox and Todd Isaacs Jr have been each other’s greatest inspiration on and off the baseball field.
Sports Notes
THE Government Secondary Schools Sports Association will kick of its basketball season today with the junior boys and girls playing at the AF Adderley Gymnasium and the senior boys and girls at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.
Double dose of victory
While it was a double dose of victory for Briana Houlgrave on the girls’ side, Jackson and Patrick Mactaggart made it a brothers affair on the boys’ side of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s New Year’s Tournament.
Bail denied after 1,000 rounds found
AN Abaco man was denied bail after being accused of having nearly 1,000 rounds of unfired ammunition and a large quantity of Indian hemp on a family island last week.
Man accused of December murder
A MAN was remanded to prison on Monday in connection with the fatal shooting of a man on bail for possession of a prohibited weapon last month.
Police urge people to plan a strategy in case of home invasion
POLICE are urging people to plan a strategy or have one in the event of a burglary or home invasion.
Sunwing returns to Grand Bahama
ABOUT 500 Canadians visitors were in Grand Bahama last week with the return of Sunwing Airlines non-stop jet service to Freeport.
Nothing is changing over NIB
On this Majority Rule Day, I think of things relating to the “true true” meaning of the word ‘majority’ particularly after reading a newspaper article that yet again references another immediate call for action relative to the looming depletion of the National Insurance Board (NIB) funds in a mere few years, whilst da gubment dem ain taking “the lazy way out” but are “being creative and finding additional ways” to mitigate any depletion - whatever that might mean!
Eight injured as boat hits rock
EIGHT people were injured after a boating accident in Exuma on Monday.
Monday, January 9
WORLD VIEW: The fallacy of ‘President’ Juan Guaidó is now over
THE pretender, Juan Guaidó, is now finally gone. The myth that he was the President of Venezuela and had the capacity to act and speak for the country, has now evaporated.
INSIGHT: A show of faith in The Bahamas over FTX probe
THE collapse of FTX – with the vast amounts of money involved – was always going to attract a global spotlight.
Taskforce to deal with backlog of criminal cases
WITH the judiciary experiencing a backlog in cases, particularly criminal proceedings, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe announced yesterday the appointment of a taskforce to address the persistent problem.
‘All hands’ needed to curb crime
PASTOR Dave Burrows said all hands are needed on deck to curb crime, adding there’s a misconception that only those from the “streets” can reach troubled youth.
FTX’s Bahamian liquidators to to control $46m Tether assets
FTX’s Bahamian provisional liquidators have gained control of $46m in Tether stablecoins as part of their “co-operation” deal with the crypto exchange’s US chief that creates a “path forward” to resolve all remaining disputes.
‘Don’t be led like sheep to the digital slaughter’
Bahamians were yesterday told “don’t be led like sheep to the digital slaughter” with a businessman arguing that the stance taken by some government agencies in not accepting cash was illegal.
CLICO victims: Don’t forget our $35m need
Victims of CLICO (Bahamas) implosion have made an impassioned call to the Government not to forget their continuing plight with an estimated $35m still required to make them whole.
69-year-old woman in hospital after shooting
A 69-year-old woman is in hospital after a shooting incident on Sunday night.
Seven in custody after 390Ibs of suspected marijuana found
Seven men are in police custody after they were found in possession of over 390 pounds of suspected marijuana.
Tributes are paid to April Crowther-Gow
TRIBUTES have been paid to April Crowther- Gow, a former deputy chief councillor of Freeport, and a council member of the Free National Movement.
FNM: Davis govt has failed to address crime crisis
FREE National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright voiced concerns that the Davis administration has neglected the Bahamian people by failing to address the “crime crisis”.
Sears: Forensic report of BPL soon
WORKS and Utilities Minister Alfred Sears said Deloitte has been engaged in a forensic examination of Bahamas Power and Light and officials should receive that report “shortly”.
PM: We’ll give more resources to crime fight
PRIME Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis and Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe pledged more resources to assist police in crime-fighting efforts, including more manpower and vehicles for patrols.
FTX CEO’S ATTACKS ON BAHAMAS ‘MISGUIDED’: Attorney General hails regulator for ‘proper’ measures
FTX’s US chief has admitted his attacks on The Bahamas’ integrity were “misguided” by agreeing to work with the failed crypto exchange’s local liquidators, the Attorney General argued last night.
Two unscathed after plane crash
TWO people were lucky to walk away with no injuries after a plane crashed shortly after takeoff in Exuma on Friday.
BAAA executives, members begin season in church
EXECUTIVES of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations and its members began the 2023 season by attending church together at St Barnabas Anglican Church yesterday.
Fresh start
ActivTrades
The first trading week of 2023 is behind us after providing some hope on the global stock markets.
Businesses take midweek Majority Rule day in stride
BAHAMIAN businesses yesterday said they are taking the January 10 Majority Rule holiday in their stride despite losing another day of commercial activity so close to the Christmas festivities.
Gym owners eye New Year spike in business
BAHAMIAN gym owners say business has increased by as much as 25 percent post-Christmas as persons move to work off the pounds gained during the holiday season.
'Too late': Fired Gaming Board employees can't get jobs back
Seventeen former Gaming Board employees, who were found to have been unfairly dismissed, have lost their bid for reinstatement some four-and-a-half years after they were terminated.
Opposition: Is customs broker ‘integration’ legal?
THE Opposition’s finance spokesman last night queried whether the Customs laws and regulations must be changed before mandating that brokers acquire third-party software to “integrate” with its electronic import clearance system.
DEREK SMITH: Firms won’t be ‘board’ by 2023 corporate challenge
Volatility appears to be further increasing in an already-shaky environment.
Masters Softball League to host return of Senior Moments
THE Masters Softball League will host the return of their visitors Senior Moments softball team from various places in the United States on their 17th trip to the Bahamas for a series of games on Tuesday at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Bahamas women are not entered in ECASC tourney
THE English Caribbean Amateur Softball Confederation (ECASC) Women’s Fast-Pitch Tournament Qualifier will be held in St John, US Virgin Islands February 28 to March 6, but according to tournament director Burkett Dorsett, the Bahamas is not entered.
NPBA: Giants and DDL in win column
THE defending champions Discount Distributors Liquors and runners-up Commonwealth Bank Giants both pulled off victories over the weekend to highlight the men’s division one play in the New Providence Basketball Association.
Don’t Blink: Freedom Farm receives $200,000 worth of baseball equipment
In the aftermath of the return of the fifth annual Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise in Montagu last month, Freedom Farm received a generous donation of $200,000 worth of baseball equipment from the Players Alliance Association.
Buddy scores 21 in Pacers’ win
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Myles Turner scored 29 points, Buddy Hield had 21 and the Indiana Pacers capped the first half of their regular-season schedule with a 116-111 comeback victory over the Charlotte Hornets yesterday.
Hunt for sex attackers
POLICE are looking for three men who sexually assaulted a woman after breaking into a home in southern New Providence yesterday.
Warning on crime
I had written several Letters to the Editor in 2022 in The Tribune newspaper giving great recommendations and suggestions to deter gangs, reduce guns and prevent crime in the Bahamas.
Davis taxation
This is an Open Letter to Prime Minister Davis on Bahamian Suffering:
Sunday, January 8
'The money is gone': Bahamas tries to turn page after FTX (Associated Press)
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Dressed in a canary blue suit on a warm December night, sweat dripping from his brow, Bishop Lawrence Rolle belts out the lyrics to his latest hit song for the hundreds of children and adults gathered to celebrate Christmas.
Friday, January 6
Two killed in separate shootings
TWO men, including one who was on bail for murder, are dead after separate shooting incidents on Friday.
BNT voices concern over sunken cargo ship
THE BAHAMAS National Trust has expressed concerns about the cargo ship that recently sank off the southern coast of Abaco and its impact on the marine environment.
FTX Trading Limited agrees on 'mutual cooperation' terms
FTX Trading Limited has agreed on terms for “mutual cooperation” on the chapter 11 in the US and the provisional liquidation in The Bahamas.
$3,200 fine for drugs charges
A MAN was fined $3,200 in court on Friday after admitting to having 2.2lbs of Indian hemp.
18 months probation for assault with a deadly weapon
A MAN was placed on 18 months’ probation in court on Friday after admitting to assaulting another man with a hatchet last year.
Man admits breaching bail
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison after admitting to breaching his bail on a murder charge to go to the carnival with his child over the holidays.
Man charged in connection with double homicide
A MAN was sent to prison on Friday in connection with the year’s first double homicide. This incident left a couple dead after armed assailants broke into their home while they slept.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Thanks, Eric Carey, you took the elitism out of the Bahamas National Trust and made it ours
WHEN Eric Carey said a final formal farewell to the Bahamas National Trust at the end of December, he left an organization that belonged to the people.
One Eleuthera Foundation: Food for thought about food sustainability in The Bahamas
I recently came across a document that I wrote in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when the world was in turmoil due to lockdowns and many of the distributions systems that we took for granted for many years were shutting down.
Bus scheme to help stop after-school violence
IN an effort to curb after-school violence, 28 bus drivers have partnered with the Ministry of Education in the launch of its public-school bus programme.
Red Cross ball returns - and aims to double income
THE Bahamas Red Cross Society is looking to double its proceeds for this year’s ball after two years without its largest fundraiser and the organisation encouraging the public to support.
Mother of ten tells of her struggle since son’s murder
A MOTHER of ten said yesterday since the murder of her son last year she has been struggling to make ends meet while also fearing for the lives of her other children.
Gambling ‘instability’ fuels wider Bahamas inequality
The gap between rich and poor Bahamians “continues to widen immeasurably”, a prominent businessman warned yesterday, while blaming gambling for causing increased family and social instability.
Investment bank targets $150m ‘pipeline’ raises
A Bahamian investment bank yesterday disclosed it has $150m worth of transactions in “the pipeline” for 2023 amid “growing momentum” within the private sector to raise much-needed capital.
Bahamas Waste in first price rise for ‘more than a decade’
A BISX-listed waste services provider yesterday confirmed that “crazy” cost increases over the past year had left it with no alternative but to raise customer prices for the first time in over a decade.
No more ‘catch up’ over financial crime standards
The Bahamas must ensure it never again plays “catch up” after achieving perfect compliance with global anti-financial crime standards, a former attorney general is warning.
Farmer frustration at rampant thefts
A LOCAL farmer has expressed disappointment over the rampant theft of produce and goods from his property, which has increased since the beginning of the pandemic.
Marijuana haul found by police
ABACO and Grand Bahama Police made a large drug haul this week, seizing over 200 blocks of suspected marijuana and arresting a male resident of Treasury Cay.
FNM: What led to decision to terminate workers?
DESPITE the Freeport Container Port reversing its decision to terminate some 20 staff, Free National Movement MP for East Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson said he believes it is still incumbent on the government to investigate the circumstances that led to the decision in the first place.
Minnis: FTX statements about lack of trust are ‘very serious’
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis called statements from US lawyers and representatives of FTX about not trusting The Bahamas “very serious”.
FTX’s Bahamian customers financed SBF’s $546m deal
FTX’s Bahamian subsidiary, and its customers/investors, were yesterday said to have unwittingly helped finance a $546m investment by Sam Bankman-Fried that has now been seized by US federal authorities.
Pharmacist profits down after price controls
PRIVATE pharmacies have seen a reduction in profits since the government’s price control regulations that were meant to bring economic relief to Bahamians were introduced late last year, according to the Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association’s (BPA) president yesterday.
PM's 'swift intervention' reverses decision to lay off 20 Bahamian workers at Freeport Container Port
THE decision to lay off 20 Bahamian workers at the Freeport Container Port has been reversed following the “swift intervention” of Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, according to an official statement by the Ministry for Grand Bahama.
Horror as teen collapses and dies playing basketball
AN 18-YEAR-OLD girl collapsed and died at a basketball court at Masons Addition park yesterday.
Opposition: ‘Bad signal’ over $233m borrowing
The Opposition’s leader yesterday warned that the Government’s “breach of law” in borrowing $233m worth of IMF special drawing rights (SDRs) from the Central Bank sends “a bad signal” to the international financial markets.
‘One step forward, two back’ before port layoff reversal
GRAND Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said it feels like the island constantly takes “one step forward, two steps back” prior to Freeport Container Port reversing the termination of 20 workers.
Brokers shut out of Customs’ systems
IMPORT-RELATED commerce came to a halt yesterday after Customs brokers complained they were shut out of the Electronic Single Window/Click2Clear goods clearance system for the entire day.
‘NPBA action is fantastic’
University of the Bahamas Mingoes open new year with big victories
WITH the return of the New Providence Basketball Association action at the AF Adderley Gymnasium, the University of the Bahamas Mingoes and the Rockets opened the new year with big victories.
Mario Ford baseball camp gets support
INNER city children as young as four and up to 15 years old continue to use baseball as a tool for both sport, physical fitness and character development thanks to the Mario Ford baseball programme and financial support from sponsors such as Consolidated Water (Bahamas) Ltd (CWCO).
Katerina Coello wins top overall individual score of Mini Jumping Challenge
THE Caribbean Equestrian Association (CEA) announced the results of its 2022 Mini Jumping Challenge, with Bahamian rider Katerina Coello winning the top overall individual score.
Baseball/softball umpires association formed
On the heels of the newly constructed Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium comes the newly formed Local Umpires Association-Academy.
LeRon Rolle emerges as top bowman in Bahamas
IN less than a year, multi-talented LeRon Rolle has emerged as the top Bahamian archery man in the country. And based on his rapid progress, Bahamas Archery president David Rahming said Rolle could be one of the top competitors in the region.
Man stole from store while drunk
A MAN was ordered to reimburse a grocery store yesterday after he admitted stealing $46.62 worth of inventory while drunk.
Two accused of gun threat
TWO men were given bail in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday on separate charges of assaulting and threatening a man with a gun on New Year’s Eve.
Fined for bail breach
A MAN was fined in court yesterday for breaching his curfew while on bail for his alleged involvement in a 2021 airport armed robbery that almost killed a woman and a police officer.
Dad jailed for having loaded gun when arrested in front of his children
A FATHER was sentenced to two years in prison in court yesterday after admitting to having a loaded gun when he was arrested in front of his children in December of 2021.
Embassy on COVID in China
OVER the past three years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese government has put people first, prioritised saving lives, and has taken a science-based and targeted approach in its pandemic response.
Road closure due to state recognised funeral
Police wish to advise the public that due to the State Recognised Funeral of the late Ruth Rosalie Miller, CMG, which will be held on Friday 6th January 2023 at Bethel Baptist Church, Meeting Street, the following streets will be closed to vehicular traffic:
Thursday, January 5
STATESIDE: Predicting the future as 2024 race begins to build
JUST about two years ago, there was a forecast in this space as to how the 2022 US Senate races would unfold.
FRONT PORCH – Majority Rule: A shared celebration
THE LATE Roman Catholic Vicar General Monsignor Preston Moss grew up a stone’s throw away from the top of the hill East Street, not far from Mortimer Candy Kitchen.
Bail rejected after alleged failure to charge device
A MAN was denied bail yesterday after being accused of failing to charge his electronic monitoring device (EMD) while on bail for armed robbery, in addition to other charges.
Sunken ship response is ‘like a band aid on top of cancer’
A LOCAL environmentalist said the government keeps putting “one Band- Aid on top of cancer” in its response to the sunken ship in South Abaco.
EDITORIAL: We have the statistics - now what can be done to stop child abuse?
WE have the statistics - now what can be done to stop child abuse?
Teachers hold protest in Eleuthera over series of issues
PRESTON Albury High School teachers and parents in Eleuthera protested over a myriad of concerns such as a teacher shortage and lack of support for dealing with insubordinate students.
15 percent rise in visitor arrivals to Grand Bahama forecast
OVERALL visitor arrivals are projected to increase by 15 percent in Grand Bahama, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Aviation and Investments Chester Cooper said while in Freeport this week.
Reid: We must tackle root issues of crime
A LOCAL community activist has called for a shift in the way the country deals with crime following a rise in killings last year.
18-year-old girl collapses and dies on basketball court
AN 18-YEAR-OLD girl collapsed and died at a basketball court in Masons Addition this morning.
‘$400m opportunity’ to double cruise spend
Nassau has a “$400m opportunity” to double gross cruise passenger spending if it can fully capitalise on the “springboard” provided by the 900,000 visitor increase forecast for 2023, its port chief argued yesterday.
‘Settle down’ before tax crackdown tie-in
The Government should allow the corporate real estate market to “settle down” before seeking to tie Business Licence renewals to property tax compliance by commercial landlords, a prominent realtor argued yesterday.
Gov’t defends $233m borrowing against ‘pure arrogance’ charge
The Government yesterday defended itself from Opposition accusations of “pure arrogance” after it confirmed the law will be changed retroactively to facilitate its borrowing of $233m in IMF special drawing rights (SDRs).
Govt aware of shanty buildings
THE government has reported it is aware of concerns of a new shanty town in Murphy Town, Abaco.
COVID non-factor: Winter tourism season up 10-15%
Forward bookings for The Bahamas’ peak winter tourism season are 10-15 percent ahead of 2022 numbers, a leading hotelier disclosed yesterday, with the industry “satisfied” there will be no return to past COVID restrictions.
COVID ‘under control’ in China despite wave of new measures
A CHINESE Embassy spokesperson yesterday insisted that the country has the COVID-19 situation there under control, arguing that commentary in international media regarding their virus policies is “nothing but double standards”.
‘Village road is safe’ - despite car plunge
A RESIDENT engineer for the Ministry of Works has given an assurance that safety measures are in place in Village Road after concerns were raised by motorists about the road project.
‘ALARM’ AT CHILD ABUSE STATISTICS: Advocacy group questions lack of public outrage
THERE were 240 new reported cases of child abuse, neglect and abandonment documented between January and October of last year, according to data released by the Ministry of Social Services.
Modus operandi
Would someone please tell Financial Secretary Simon Wilson that it is easier to catch flies with honey than with vinegar. And maybe he could send a less aggressive photo of himself to The Tribune for any further utterances he might be making.
A Junkanoo Festival
If there is one thing the recent Junkanoo parades have demonstrated to us is that they are too long. Beautiful, spectacular, but long. Twelve and thirteen hours for one event is too arduous for both the Junkanoo groups and the public who come to enjoy the spectacle that is Junkanoo and to cheer on their favourite group.
West Bay Street development’s rental rates 20% above target
A residential West Bay Street development was yesterday said to be more than 95 percent sold with rental rates some 20 percent higher than projected.
Towing fare increase could heighten risks
Automotive repair shops yesterday voiced concern that the 67 percent, or two-thirds increase, in standard towing fees could prompt Bahamians to take more risky measures to move broken down vehicles.
Goldwynn’s $100m eastern expansion
GoldWynn’s developer yesterday said it no longer plans to acquire additional Goodman’s Bay real estate to its immediate west and will instead move eastwards with its $100m second phase expansion this year.
Hubert Edwards: Potential and challenge as Bahamas nears 50
This past year was one for recovery and reflection. The COVID-19 pandemic, alongside widespread predictions of a US and wider global recession, supply chain disruptions and other socio-economic tragedies, has marred potential development opportunities for world leaders, consumers, entrepreneurs and businesses.
Man accused of shotgun threat
A MAN was granted bail in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after being charged with threatening a woman with a shotgun last month.
Man accused of drug and firearm charges
A MAN was granted bail in court yesterday on firearm, ammunition and drug charges after being arrested on New Year’s Day.
Minister: ‘I anticipate a very, very active year’
With this being the 50th anniversary celebrations of the nation, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg said there’s quite a bit of things for the sporting populace to look forward to in 2023.
McKay Jr and Saints on a roll
AFTER some good Bahamian cooked meals and some quality time with family and friends, Gregory McKay Jr returned to Limestone University and helped the Saints men’s basketball team to two straight victories.
Bahamas Olympic Committee elections paramount
BAHAMAS Olympic Committee president Romell Knowles said they are looking forward to another hectic year of activities, but paramount will be their election of officers.
Equestrian president: ‘We anticipate continued strong participation in the sport’
EQUESTRIAN Bahamas president Cathy Ramsingh-Pierre said they will enter 2023 with gratitude for the successes achieved in the past year, and a sense of optimism and renewed energy for the year to come.
Deyton Albury and Chipola undefeated
DEYTON Albury and the Chipola College Indians are off to a great start, riding a perfect 18-0 record that has them sitting on top of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) division one men’s basketball rankings.
Wednesday, January 4
ALICIA WALLACE: A good time to take a realistic look at your goals for 2023
WE are a few days into 2023. The holidays came and went as quickly as they always do. There was shopping, cleaning, cooking, and gathering. In the midst of all of the activities, many of us made time to reflect on 2022, imagine what could be in 2023, and make resolutions, set goals, or set intentions for the year ahead.
EDITORIAL: COVID reminder - and a watchful eye on China
IF it seems to many that COVID-19 has gone away, today is a rude reminder that it is anything but.
‘No oil spill from ship’ says Abaco MP
CENTRAL and South Abaco MP John Pinder denied claims of an oil spill on the south coast of the island, describing it as “erroneous”.
PMH renovations ‘to be completed in weeks’
RENOVATIONS at Princess Margaret Hospital are on target to be completed in the next several weeks, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said yesterday.
Mitchell touts progress in talks to boost tourism with Middle East nations
NEGOTIATIONS with Middle Eastern countries to support tourism to The Bahamas have been going well, with recent agreement signings with Dubai and Saudi Arabia concluded, said Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday.
‘Hundreds’ of teachers still owed back pay, says union
HUNDREDS of teachers are still owed back pay, according to Bahamas Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson.
Platinum Knights march to GB victory
PLATINUM Knights captured its fifth consecutive win in the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade in Grand Bahama, dominating with a lead of more than 130 points ahead of rival Superstar Rockers.
Gov’t pledges law change over its $233m borrowing
The Government has promised to change the law to facilitate its “use” of $233m in International Monetary Fund special drawing rights (SDRs) that have for the past 16 months boosted The Bahamas’ foreign reserves.
US airlines: We’re paying five times Bahamas costs
Major airlines allege they are paying “more than five times” what it costs The Bahamas to provide air navigation services to them amid demands that sanctions be imposed on local carriers flying to the US.
‘Collusion’ document contradicts such claim
FTX’s Bahamian liquidators are asserting that the document being cited as evidence of this country’s alleged collusion with Sam Bankman-Fried sparked the very court action that led to his removal.
Minister urges gas retailers not to rush to lay off staff
LABOUR Minister Keith Bell yesterday urged gas retailers to exercise restraint and “not to be swift to any sort of action” amid warnings about potential layoffs in the sector as costs rise.
Towing prices up – but businesses say it stops job cuts
TOWING businesses said although the recent price rise in towing services may deter some customers, it ultimately benefits business by preventing downsizing of staff.
Pintard: Govt doing more talking and less execution
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said yesterday the government has been doing more “talking” than “execution”.
Almost 700 flights delayed on Monday
ON Monday, almost 700 flights departing from Lynden Pindling International Airport were delayed due to system challenges at air traffic control.
Rise in migrants fleeing turmoil, says Bell
LABOUR and Immigration Minister Keith Bell said officials anticipate a “very significant” influx of migrants from Haiti and Cuba to The Bahamas in the days ahead amid growing economic turmoil in the two countries.
16-year-old killed in two-car collision
THE COUNTRY recorded its first traffic fatality for 2023 after a 16-year-old male died in a traffic accident in the capital on Monday.
Tax crackdown threat for Business Licence renewal
Bahamian companies will have their 2023 Business Licence renewals withheld if they fail to comply with the Government’s crackdown on tax dodging commercial property landlords, it was confirmed yesterday.
FTX US chief ‘in contempt’ over Bahamian court order
The Securities Commission’s top executive has accused FTX’s US chief of being “in contempt” of the Supreme Court by blocking access to the collapsed crypto exchange’s cloud-stored system and digital assets.
NO CHINA LIMIT AS COVID CASES RISE: Health Minister says officials are closely monitoring situation
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville said yesterday the government currently has no plans to impose COVID-19 testing requirements for travellers coming from China after a surge in cases there.
Basketball standout Antonicia Moultrie following in her mother’s footsteps
VERY few parents get the opportunity to watch their children follow in their footsteps and coach them at the same time in the process. Anastacia Sands-Moultrie is one of these individuals as her daughter Antonicia Moultrie is picking up where her mother left off.
American bit and kicked police woman – and broke officer’s finger
AN AMERICAN woman who bit a police officer, kicked the officer repeatedly in the face and broke the officer’s finger during an incident at Aura nightclub on New Year’s Day has been ordered to pay $1,500 in compensation.
FTX founder pleads not guilty
FORMER FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan federal court yesterday to charges of cheating investors and looting customer deposits on his cryptocurrency platform.
New Year expectations
Coming out of the COVID- 19 pandemic, sports took off and many of the sporting bodies were thrilled to be back in action. And as they transition to the new year, there are even more exciting expectations for the new year.
Minister: No ‘sweeping lay-offs’ from minimum wage increase
A Cabinet minister yesterday voiced confidence “there won’t be sweeping lay-offs” as a result of the 24 percent minimum wage increase despite previous warnings by petroleum retailers that they ma be forced to terminate staff.
Gas stations to ‘manage’ minimum wage increase
Petroleum retailers yesterday the minimum wage increase was something they “all have to manage” as they continue to push for a change to the industry’s fixed-margin business model.
Three fined over bullets and hemp
THREE men were fined in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after admitting to having more than 1lb of Indian hemp and 18 unfired rounds of ammunition last week.
Tuesday, January 3
Man in hospital after Freeport stabbing
A 26-year-old Grand Bahama man is in hospital following a stabbing in Freeport, police reported yesterday.
Nursing - not only a profession for women
CHRISTON Deveaux was the only male in the nursing cadet programme at his alma mater CR Walker back in 2012. Fast forward a decade later, and the field of nursing almost mirrors those days - Christon still stands as one of few male nurses touching lives through health care.
Canary in a coal mine
ALARMING GLOBAL FALL IN SPERM NUMBERS
IN THE 1900s, British coal miners were exposed to carbon monoxide and other lethal toxic gases. John Scott Haldane and his research on carbon monoxide would in that age provide a solution of using canaries, as early indicators of trouble prompting the miners to evacuate.
What is on your bucket list for 2023?
THE calendar for 2023 is wide open for most people who are anticipating what the new year will bring. Others though, are all for curating experiences and having a blast while doing it.
Maybe just don’t set yourself up to fail
IT’S a new year and with it comes thoughts of resolutions and being all you can be.
PETER YOUNG: When political leaders fail to act in their country’s interests
DESPITE the normal festivities surrounding Christmas, my wife and I found there was more time this year for reflection since I was house-bound while recovering from hip replacement surgery. So I was particularly grateful to a good friend for his kind gift of an interesting book entitled ‘The March of Folly’ by American Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author, Barbara Tuchman. In her heyday in the 1960s she was well known as one of America’s foremost popular historians for she had an engaging style and succeeded in making the past interesting to millions of readers.
FACE TO FACE: Giving voice to the children
THIS is the beginning of one of the most significant years in Bahamian history. This year, 2023, marks the 50th anniversary of Bahamian Independence. Let the celebrations begin!
Saxons: We’ll plan way forward
ALTHOUGH yesterday’s Junkanoo parade did not end on a victorious note for the Saxon Superstars, group representatives say members are still thankful for their second-place finish and are planning to meet as early as Friday to discuss the way forward.
Fears over slow response to ship sinking
THE Onega Traveller ship leaking oil off the coast of South Abaco is a threat to fishing grounds as clean-up crews do not have all of the equipment necessary to contain it, an Abaco business leader has warned.
Bahamas warning of ‘US airspace ban’
A BAHAMIAN aviation operator has warned that a ban on Bahamian-based flights entering the US “cannot be accommodated” and warned of the danger of a dispute between US airlines and the Bahamas government escalating.
FTX claim over $300m in assets
THE new ownership of FTX has accused the joint provisional liquidators (JPL) in The Bahamas of conspiring with the Securities Commission of The Bahamas (SCB) in hiding $300m in assets during the liquidation process.
BPL charging customers ‘against the law’ says FNM
FNM leader Michael Pintard said Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) is now charging consumers “against the law” after government botched the fuel hedging strategy left in place by previous administration.
FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried pleads not guilty in New York
NEW YORK (AP) — FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried pleaded not guilty in Manhattan federal court Tuesday to charges that he cheated investors and looted customer deposits on his cryptocurrency trading platform.
Limit on visitors as hospital sees uptick in COVID-19 cases
THE Ministry of Health and Wellness said precautionary measures have been implemented in the Intensive Care Unit and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Princess Margaret Hospital following a noticed uptick in COVID- 19 cases related to exposure at the hospital.
A massive U-turn in China
ActivTrades
Having maintained a strict zero- COVID policy for almost three years, the Chinese government had become a prisoner of it. The strategy was designed to address the low vaccination rates of the elderly population (80 million people aged 80+ years are not vaccinated and 44% of the population did not receive the third dose, this percentage rising to 60% among people aged 80+ years). And, although studies in Hong Kong comparing CoronaVac with BioNTech’s vaccine have not been conclusive, the Chinese government did not seem to have much confidence in the degree of immunity provided by their own vaccines.
Govt ‘needs to get a grip on rising violent crime’
FREE National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright has called on the Davis administration to get a grip on the rising violent crime this year.
Commission denies claims by FTX’s chief executive
The Securities Commission of The Bahamas has denied allegations of directing the failed crypto-exchange FTX to mint $300m tokens prior to its collapse.
PM priorities include jobs, youth and inflation
THE government’s top priorities for this year will include tackling inflation, creating more job opportunities for Bahamians and fostering youth empowerment, Prime Minister Phillip Davis said yesterday.
UPDATED: Couple shot dead in their sleep
Two men are being questioned by police after a man and woman were shot dead in their sleep early on Monday morning.
One Family wins parades back-to-back
ONE Family emerged as the unofficial winner of the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade, kicking off the new year with back-to-back wins after rushing to victory just days earlier on Boxing Day.
Contractor: I’m not to blame over Treasure Cay sewerage
A CONTRACTOR for the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) has said he is not the one to blame for problems residents of Treasure Cay are experiencing with their sewerage system.
FTX liquidators: Don’t sell off assets - wait for restructuring
THE Joint Provisional Liquidators (JPL) appointed after the collapse of the FTX crypto-exchange are arguing in court in the US that any sale or auction of assets should be reserved for any of the Bahamian company’s rights.
Tapping into loan ‘like printing money’
OPPOSITION leader Michael Pintard has warned of “grave concern” over the government tapping into $232m International Monetary Fund (IMF) special drawing rights (SDR), warning of the “equivalent of printing money”.
C I Gibson Rattlers win senior boys’ title
It went right down to the wire as the CI Gibson Rattlers prevailed with the senior boys’ title over the Jordan Prince Williams Falcons in a nail-biting championship game that brought the curtain down on the Providence Storm Basketball Club’s 2022 Holiday Classic at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.
Big Red Machine take senior girls’ crown
IN an epic battle right to the end, the St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine rolled past the CV Bethel Stingrays 46-41 behind the stellar leadership of Antonia Moultrie to win the senior girls’ title of the Providence Basketball Club’s Holiday Classic.
Bail denied for Canadian after $300k of drugs found in luggage
A CANADIAN man was denied bail in Magistrate’s Court on Friday after he was allegedly found with nearly $300,000 worth of marijuana in his luggage at LPIA.
Lives of service
The Bahamas is a great little nation despite the challenges and obstacles which confront us every so often. 2022 was a good year for many and I, for one, thank the Lord Jesus Christ for having assisted our people with successfully emerging into 2023. Some of us did not, unfortunately, make it through. Many of us did, however, and as a people and individuals we must now put our shoulders to the wheel and develop ourselves on a personal level and the nation collectively. We have any number of distinct role models.
Show faith in police
The Bahamas government, Bahamian and residents must find ways to demonstrate their faith in the performance of our Law Enforcement Agencies, in particular the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Jordan Prince Williams Falcons Jr Boys’ champions
JORDAN Prince Williams Falcons pulled off an impressive 54-19 victory over St John’s Giants to win the junior boys’ title in the Providence Storm Holiday Classic at the CI Gibson Gymnasium on Friday.
Sunday, January 1
Chief Justice Ian Winder knighted in King's New Year Honours
Chief Justice Ian Winder has been given the award of Knight Bachelor in the King's New Year Honours.
Onego Traveller: Clean up crews to assist with oil remediation efforts – (updated with video)
CLEAN up crews have been deployed to Abaco to assist with oil remediation efforts after a cargo ship that was carrying heavy fuel onboard sank in waters in the southern part of the island.
