Monday, June 30
'Seven digit' Atlantisinvestment delayed bygaming reform wait
Atlantis’s top executive yesterday said its planned multi-million dollar, “seven digit” investment in private gaming rooms was being delayed by the wait for casino gaming reforms to be passed.
'No doubt over VAT chaos' on January 1
A well-known businessman yesterday said he had “no doubt” the Government will be unable to seamlessly implement Value-Added Tax (VAT) come January 1, suggesting “chaos” would result from failing to promptly educate the private sector.
QC urges 19% top earners income tax
A well-known QC yesterday urged the Bahamas to implement a 17-19 per cent income tax on persons earning over $50,000-$75,000 annually, arguing that fears of widespread evasion were overblown.
Baha Mar avoids damages on $10m 'credit letter'
Baha Mar has reached a legal settlement that prevents a former hotel partner seeking specific damages against it for trying to draw down a $10 million Letter of Credit, although arbitration proceedings remain alive.
Briefly
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Death threats commotion raises concerns in FNM ranks
THIS week, I found it interesting that high-level figures within the Free National Movement had received death threats since March but no one had bothered to inform the public or, for that matter, make such a stink about it that the police would have felt compelled to address these matters with urgency and as a matter of public record.
Without financial help, Ranfurly Home faces closure
“RANFURLY must raise $400,000 or close its doors forever” read the headline in Friday’s Tribune.
Gov't urged: End 'ridiculous foot dragging' on BEC
The Government has been urged to end its "ridiculous foot dragging" over the Bahamas Electricity Corporation's (BEC) part-privatisation and wider energy reform, as the private sector readies its own study on the issue.
Hotel helping to solve hunger
THE Meliá Nassau Beach resort recently celebrated the first of regularly scheduled food collections by Hands for Hunger, a local food collection agency.
Gov't pledges to bridge 30k home digital divide
The Government's long-awaited Electronic Communications Sector policy pledges to bridge the 'Digital Divide' that has left 30,000 Bahamian households without broadband Internet, deeming this essential for "further and faster" economic growth.
A disappointing finish for Team Bahamas at NACRA Championships
IT WAS a disappointing finish for the home team in their third game of the group stage at the North America Caribbean Rugby Association Championships.
Latoy clocks season’s best to win 400m
CHRIS ‘Fireman’ Brown didn’t enter, Demetrius Pinder withdrew from the final and Ramon Miller had to watch from the sideline nursing an injury. Yet, in their absence, LaToy Williams still ran a blistering season’s best of 44.97 seconds to win the marquee men’s 400 metres on day two of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ BTC Junior and Senior National Track and Field Championships.
Ryan Ingraham defends high jump title
LAST week at the Fritz Grant Invitational, Ryan Ingraham was complaining of a groin injury. Over the weekend, he was delighted that it didn’t flare up again as he successfully defended his men’s high jump title at the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations BTC National Championships.
Port's 25% growth hides missed trade potential
Freeport is failing to attract “a wider range” of businesses and become a true logistics/distribution hub, despite the Container Port outstripping all Caribbean rivals with 25 per cent cargo throughput growth.
Shaunae getting back to race form
She is still not 100 per cent, but Shaunae Miller wanted to show her fitness level as she gets ready for her first trip to the Commonwealth Games next month.
RoyalFidelity's fund with 'different angle'
RoyalFidelity is planning to launch an “alternative” US$ fund this summer that aims to minimise market volatility risk, a move coinciding with the maturing of another product forecast to generate 50 per cent investor returns.
Govt 'running out of time' to bring VAT Bill
FNM Chairman Darron Cash criticised the Christie administration yesterday for failing to bring the value added tax bill to Parliament with its accompanying regulations and proposed tariff schedule in “an appropriate time-frame”.
Government still waiting on US to answer cellphone spy row claims
THE government still has not received a formal report from the United States regarding the National Security Agency’s reported surveillance of mobile phone calls in the country, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said yesterday.
Bahamian's plea from Cuban prison
A BAHAMIAN serving time in a Cuban prison for drug possession is urging the Bahamas government to repatriate him.
Family group hits out at schools power cut-off
ANOTHER civic organisation in Freeport has spoken out against the Grand Bahama Power Company over its disconnection of supply at the public schools in Grand Bahama. Families for Justice said the recent action executed by officials at the Power Company was an “insult” to the entire community of Grand Bahama.
Teachers faced 'unbearable' conditions with power turned off
FOR three days last week while the electricity was disconnected at schools in Grand Bahama due to the government’s non-payment of bills teachers and administrators had to work in “unbearable and uncomfortable” conditions.
Anger at FNM council meeting over death threat revelations
TEMPERS flared during a Free National Movement council meeting following the revelation that FNMs named in a threatening letter were kept in the dark about possible danger, The Tribune understands.
Tributes paid to Roots junkanoo group founder
PAUL “Diamond” Knowles, 62, best known as one of the founders and leader of the Roots Junkanoo group, died on Saturday evening, family and friends have confirmed.
Drivers, slow down - there are parrots crossing!
THE Bahama Parrot, once found on seven islands, is thriving in Abaco after several successful breeding seasons, so much so that the Bahamas National Trust has installed six parrot crossing signs on the Ernest Dean Highway between the Crossing Rocks and Sandy Point communities.
Save The Bays calls for more details on Nygard proposal
SAVE The Bays lawyer Fred Smith is urging the government to release “relevant information” on the proposed expansion of Nygard Cay so Bahamians can have a chance to respond appropriately.
New defence boat starts first patrol
THE first of The Bahamas’ new patrol boats slipped its berth early on Friday to start its maiden voyage in defence of the country’s sovereignty.
Show your support for Bahamian chefs
ALTHOUGH members of the Bahamas’ national culinary team are confident they will sweep away the competition with their versatile menu at Taste of the Caribbean, they still need Bahamian support in Florida to claim victory.
Man with ankle bracelet is suspect in shooting
POLICE have arrested a 25-year-old man who was wearing an electronic monitoring ankle bracelet following a shooting incident at a business establishment over the weekend.
Webshop laws will be delayed
TOURISM Minister Obie Wilchcombe yesterday confirmed that the much anticipated legislation to regulate the webshop industry will not be tabled this week in Parliament as expected.
Man held over armed robbery
A 21-year-old man was taken into police custody early yesterday in connection with an armed robbery that happened earlier this month. Police made the arrest shortly after 3am at Faith Avenue.
Sunday, June 29
Briefly
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Maritime marriage revenues beating forecasts by 20%
Maritime mariages on Bahamian-registered vessels have generated 20 per cent more revenue than projected for 2014 to-date, the Attorney General telling Tribune Business that this nation has been approached by all the major cruise lines over this venture.
BEC survives a fuel ‘emergency’
The Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) suffered an “emergency situation” on Wednesday night after it almost ran out of fuel due to bad weather disrupting shipping.
RoyalFidelity funds enjoy $10m injection
RoyalFidelity Merchant Bank & Trust yesterday said investors had injected a collective $10 million into its three-strong domestic mutual fund family for the year to end-May 2014, aided by the low interest rate “perfect storm”.
‘Past desperation’ on vehicle title system
Bahamian auto dealers yesterday expressed hope that proposed Road Traffic Department reforms will ultimately result in a vehicle titling system, one telling Tribune Business its creation was “past desperation point”.
Gov’t told: Don’t adjust tariffs at ‘last minute’
The Government was yesterday warned it has one month to inform auto dealers about whether the industry’s Excise Tax rates will be lowered to compensate for Value-Added Tax (VAT), otherwise it may see revenue generated by the sector drop-off in the New Year.
Rival Bahamian bidders in fight for last Gov’t hotel
Rival Bahamian-led bids with strong Andros connections are battling to acquire the last government-owned hotel, Tribune Business can reveal, with at least one proposal focusing on eco-tourism. Prescott Smith, owner of Stafford Creek Lodge, confirmed to Tribune Business that he was heading one group seeking to buy the Fresh Creek-based Lighthouse Club from the Government-owned Hotel Corporation of the Bahamas.
Power back on in schools as $1m paid by government
IN assuring residents that over $1m in outstanding bills had been paid to the Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) to have electricity supply restored at all government schools Dr Michael Darville, Minister for Grand Bahama, yesterday described this week’s disconnection as “a bit drastic and unnecessary”.
Minister dismisses legal action threat over non-disclosures
A government minister yesterday dismissed threats of legal action over the failure of parliamentarians to file their annual public disclosures as “nonproductive”.
Attorney to spend ten days in jail for contempt
ATTORNEY Geoffrey Farquharson will likely spend his next ten days in the dormitory of Her Majesty’s Prisons, The Tribune understands.
Anger over failure to give hazard pay
NEARLY 200 Ministry of Works employees blocked the entrance to the JFK Drive compound yesterday morning to protest nine years of not receiving hazardous pay.
Kids' home saved
THE government will step in to assist the Ranfurly Home in an effort to ensure the subsidised orphanage can remain open, Minister of Social Services Melanie Griffin said yesterday.
Friday, June 27
Taureano Johnson looks to get pro boxing career back on track
IN two weeks, Taureano ‘Reno’ Johnson will step back into the professional boxing ring to get his career back on track.
1,000 pairs of tennis shoes for children in need
CELEBRATE Freeport and the Assemblies of God RV 500 Initiative, in partnership with several major institutions, will distribute 1,000 pairs of tennis shoes to needy children on Grand Bahama this summer.
Red Cross calls for donations to help potential hurricane victims
THE BAHAMAS Red Cross Society is appealing for donations of canned goods and clothing for potential hurricane victims this summer, especially those on the Family Islands.
PM vows to make good on Family Island promises
THE government is in the midst of prioritising development for this year now that the budget has been passed in the Senate, Prime Minister Perry Christie said yesterday.
Coroner reports on death of man who fell from building
A CORONER’S inquest into the death of 25-year-old Delano Dorval, whose lifeless body was discovered on the grounds of the Casa Bahama Building Complex in March, has found that the deceased died of blunt force trauma injuries as a result of falling from the 17-storey building.
35-member team named for CAC Juniors
A 35-member team will represent the Bahamas at the 20th Central American and Caribbean Junior Track and Field Championships in Moreli, Mexico.
Elite athletes get set for Nationals
FOR the first time in its history, the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations will contest its National Track and Field Championships over three days, starting tonight and ending on Sunday at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.
Legal affairs building to be named after Paul Adderley
PRIME Minister Perry Christie will officially open and name the building that houses the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs the “Paul L Adderley Building.”
Men arrested for catching undersized conch
TWO Bahamian men have been arrested after they were allegedly caught fishing undersized conch.
Smiles on BTVI graduates' faces
MORE than 400 students received their diplomas, degrees or certificates yesterday as they became the newest batch of graduates from the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute.
Queen notified of choice for governor role
PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday confirmed that his recommendation for the new Governor General has been sent to the Queen for approval.
Passport delays up to eight weeks
PASSPORT applicants will now have to wait up to eight weeks for a new passport because of increased volume at the Passport Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration said yesterday.
Workers cast votes in strike poll
WORKERS at the Grand Lucaya Resort took a strike vote yesterday at the Grand Bahama Taxi Union Hall. Michelle Dorsett, president of the Commonwealth Union of Hotel Services and Allied Workers, said the poll started at 9am for all line and managerial staff at the resort. The polls closed at 5pm.
Double murderer awaits sentencing
JUSTICE Roy Jones will decide next week whether a man convicted of a double murder will be sentenced to death, life imprisonment or a fixed jail term.
Blind man awaits resentencing after 38 years in jail
AN expected resentencing for a murder convict initially on death row was postponed yesterday by six days.
Johnson: Carnival is an opportunity for The Bahamas
Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Daniel Johnson yesterday defended the government’s decision to host the first “Bahamian styled” Carnival in May 2015.
Gaming bill needs international approval
PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday said the revamped gaming legislation hinges on the support of international regulatory agencies, adding that the government was close to settling “significant issues”.
Government has 'lost focus' on VAT education
THE government has lost focus on preparing the nation for the January 1 implementation of value added tax and has decided to now focus its energy on other issues that are not as important, said FNM Shadow Finance Minister Peter Turnquest.
Failure to pay school bills 'a disgrace'
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson yesterday called the government’s failure to pay the electricity bills of public schools on Grand Bahama on time “a national disgrace”.
Party left FNMs in dark over threats
FNM Deputy Chairman Dr Duane Sands yesterday expressed concern that he and other FNMs targeted in death threats were not alerted to possible danger, saying that had they been informed they could have decided on a suitable approach.
'Help our little girl to defeat cancer'
SINCE last November, five-year-old Zion Knowles has needed 16 different types of medication at a cost of $4,679.75 each month to prevent a leukaemia relapse.
Ranfurly must raise $400,000 or close its doors forever
THE Ranfurly Home may have to close its doors for good after nearly 60 years next month if it is not able to raise the $400,000 needed to keep the orphanage open.
Experts to probe health risks for Grand Bahama residents
TWO international health organisations will be brought to Grand Bahama to conduct a major health and environment risk assessment study in the communities near the Freeport Industrial Park.
Warning over BTC glitches
THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company informed customers yesterday that they may experience slow internet speeds and dropped calls due to ongoing work on its network.
Welcome to the land of do-as-you-please
“We don’t pay taxes. Only the little people pay taxes.” — Leona Helmsley
Thursday, June 26
Briefly
EDITOR, The Tribune.
'Past desperation' on vehicle title system
By NEIL HARTNELL
Gov't told: Don't adjust tariffs at 'last minute'
By NEIL HARTNELL
Rival Bahamian bidders in fight for last Gov't hotel
By NEIL HARTNELL
BEC survives a fuel 'emergency'
By NATARIO McKENZIE
RoyalFidelity funds enjoy $10m injection
By NEIL HARTNELL
NACRA: National rugby team looks for strong finish
TEAM Bahamas will look for a strong finish at home this weekend in the round robin finale of the North American Caribbean Rugby Association Championships.
Junior national soccer team in CONCACAF qualifier
The Bahamas is all set to host the Caribbean Football Union Men’s Under-17 tournament at the Roscow A L Davies Soccer Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex July 21-28.
Keeping the light on for 150 years
ONE of Abaco’s beloved jewels, the Elbow Reef Lighthouse, is 150 years old this week. The lighthouse, on Elbow Cay, is the last manually-operated light fuelled by kerosene in the world.
Casino reforms keep expat resident bar
The Government’s decision not to allow permanent residents and work permit holders to gamble in Bahamian casinos is a “miniscule” issue that will not delay much-needed reform, a tourism industry executive said yesterday.
Atlantis ready for hurricane season
A STATE-of-the-art weather station has been added to further protect residents and staff at Atlantis, Paradise Island, in the event of a hurricane this summer.
Ready for summer junkanoo
BAY Street will come alive with the sounds of goat skin drums, horns and cow bells as entertainers from every major Junkanoo group will showcase their talents in the much-anticipated Junkanoo Summer Festival. The event will take place every Friday and Saturday during July.
New faces join ranks of public servants after vote
THE official results are in for the local government elections on Grand Bahama and several newcomers were elected to represent and serve their communities. In the City of Freeport District, six of the nine councillors are newcomers to local government.
‘No guarantees’ for web shops
Web shop operators were yesterday said to be “very concerned” over the uncertainty and lack of any guarantees surrounding the industry’s impending legalisation.
VAT readiness: PM warned that 'Clock ticking'
Prime Minister Perry Christie has been warned that “the clock is ticking” on the private sector’s Value-Added Tax (VAT) readiness, a Tax Coalition co-chair yesterday calling for the revised legislation and regulations to be published “as soon as possible”.
Gov't accounting switch 'fantastic'
The Government’s planned switch to an accrual financial reporting system has been praised as “fantastic”, a leading accountant arguing it will boost accountability and improve Budget planning.
Gov't 'good faith' key to Brewery's 100-job growth
Sands Beer’s manufacturer yesterday said its planned $15 million growth strategy, which could more than double its workforce via the creation of “over 100” jobs in the next five-10 years, depends on the Government maintaining the ‘tax advantage’ it holds over its BISX-listed rival.
Fishing champions riding the crest of a wave
A BLUE marlin hooked in the last five minutes of the final round of the 2014 Bahamas Billfish Championship (BBC) decided the overall title in thrilling fashion for Jr Davis and his team aboard Wave Paver.
Investigation underway over police officer’s death
GRAND Bahama’s Rand Memorial Hospital Administrator Catherine Weech has confirmed to The Tribune that there is an investigation underway to determine how a police officer died at the hospital last weekend after being treated for an ankle injury.
Woman left waiting for ten years for billionaire to pay $400,000 damages bill
A WOMAN is demanding that an American billionaire comply with a $400,000 damages order that was affirmed by the Court of Appeal concerning the dislocated knee she suffered when slipping on gravy at his then hotel-based restaurant.
Webshops concerned over paying penalty and not getting licences
LAWYER Wayne Munroe, who represents the owners of five webshops, said yesterday his clients are concerned that even after they pay the government’s “so-called penalty” they will not be granted gaming licences.
Cash 'disturbed' by Nygard-PLP documents
FNM Chairman Darron Cash yesterday said a pledge from billionaire fashion mogul Peter Nygard of $45,000 to the PLP in the early 1990s and his subsequent requests for help on issues relating to his property and expansion plans is “embarrassing” and “disturbing”.
Call for Nottage to apologise over crime statistics
FNM Deputy Chairman Dr Duane Sands said yesterday he believes National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage should apologise for not painting an accurate picture of the country’s crime problem when he gave crime statistics in the House of Assembly last week.
FNM deputy angry at lack of police response
FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner yesterday expressed concern for her welfare and that of her family’s after death threats and demands that she resign from front-line politics in March of this year.
Human trafficker jailed for 15 years
THE Bahamas’ first trafficking convict was spared life imprisonment yesterday when a Supreme Court judge sentenced her to 15 years in jail.
Murder victim’s mother arrested with 13 others after court scuffle
KEVA Major, wife of convicted drug trafficker Dwight Major, was arrested with 13 other persons on Tuesday and held by police for several hours following an alleged scuffle at the Nassau Street court complex.
Miller says latest BEC claim is a lie
BAHAMAS Electricity Corporation Executive Chairman Leslie Miller said yesterday that an image of an outstanding electricity bill in his name that was circulating on the Internet yesterday was “manufactured”.
Power cut off in schools as government fails to pay the bill
NEKO Grant, Free National Movement for Central Grand Bahama, yesterday criticised the government after the power supply was disconnected at all of the island’s 14 government schools because of non payment of bills.
Lightning blamed for BEC power outage
FIVE of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation’s engines were struck by lightning yesterday leading to widespread power outages in New Providence, BEC officials said.
Wednesday, June 25
Briefly
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Union chief seeks 100-133% increase in minimum wage
The Trade Union Congress’s (TUC) president yesterday backed a 100-133 per cent increase in the Bahamas’ minimum wage, describing this as “reasonable”.
‘Embrace new era’ with investor citizen plan
The Bahamas has been urged to “embrace a new era in financial services” by launching an Investor Citizen programme, a leading accountant describing this as essential if the country is to remain a “player” in the industry.
TUC chief: ‘jury still out’ on union-saving legislation
A trade union leader said yesterday that “the jury is still out” on whether the Government’s recent union-saving had truly “cured the mischief”, as one attorney confirmed he had filed for a Judicial Review over the issue.
Pension providers enjoy ‘significant’ 100% inquiry rise
Pension plan administrators yesterday said they had seen a 100 per cent increase in employer inquiries over the past 12 months, describing the surge as “significant” given existing low participation levels.
QC: Don’t reward $35m Nygard ‘law breaking’
The Government was yesterday urged not to reward two decades of alleged law-breaking by approving Peter Nygard’s new development applications, a well-known QC suggesting he had seized land worth $35 million without permission.
Missing transcripts delay appeal hearing
MISSING portions of trial transcripts have led to a delay in the appeal of a man challenging his conviction and 18-year-sentence for manslaughter.
Suspect denies accusations of unlawful sex with 14-year-old
A MAN denied having sex with an underage girl he and a friend picked up in a settlement on a Family Island, a policeman said in Supreme Court yesterday.
30-member CISC team all set
WITH the Bahamas Swimming Federation’s Royal Bank of Canada National Swim Championships over and done with, the focus now switches to the various national teams that will represent the Bahamas this summer. The first team getting set to travel is the 30-member team to the Caribbean Island Swim Championships July 3-7 in Wildey, Barbados.
Freeport may gain a sister in Carolina
THE City of Concord, North Carolina, is interested in establishing a sister city relationship with Freeport, raising the possibility of bringing top level stock car racing to Grand Bahama.
Extension granted for attempted murder appeal
OLAIN Escarment has been granted an extension by the Court of Appeal to serve notice against his conviction for attempted murder.
Swift are national swimming champions
Swift Swimming dominated the Bahamas Swimming Federation’s 2014 Royal Bank of Canada National Swimming Championships by winning the title for the fourth consecutive year at the Betty Kelly Kenning National Swim Complex over the weekend.
‘Golden Knights’ ready for Nationals challenge
IT was one of those “what if” performances turned in by ‘Golden Knight’ Demetrius Pinder over the weekend. In a prelude as he gets warmed up for the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations 2014 BTC National Open Track and Field Championships at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium this weekend, Pinder ran as a rabbit in the men’s 800 metres at the Fritz Grant Invitational this past weekend.
Police officer dies - after treatment in hospital for ankle injury
TRIBUTES have been pouring in on social media sites following the unexpected death of Police Constable Garvin Demeritte, who died while undergoing medical treatment at the Rand Memorial Hospital on Saturday.
Entrepreneur's jetpack plan grounded by delays
AN INVESTOR in a purported $1.5 million business project seeking to commercially operate 10 water-propelled jetpacks expressed frustration yesterday at what he claims to be a “run-around” in getting the approval from the New Providence Port Authority.
Chikungunya virus 'likely' to affect people in The Bahamas
ALTHOUGH no cases of the chikungunya virus have been detected in the Bahamas, the virus is “likely” to arrive and infect people in the country, according to a local health official.
Nygard gave money to PLP - then asked for help over land issues
BILLIONAIRE fashion mogul Peter Nygard pledged at least $45,000 to the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) in the early 1990s. And after highlighting his financial contributions to the party in a 1992 letter to Prime Minister Perry Christie, he requested that the then Minister of Agriculture, Trade and Industry use his position to help solve issues relating to his property and expansion plans, documents obtained by The Tribune show.
Any spying on The Bahamas 'would have been within law'
ANY surveillance conducted by the United States in the Bahamas would have been done within the law, according to a senior anti-drugs official yesterday.
Murders are up by 9%
DESPITE claims from National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage that murders in New Providence are down four per cent, newly released crime statistics show that up to June 10, the murder rate across The Bahamas has actually risen this year by nine per cent to 61, compared to the 56 recorded by that same date last year.
Family still waiting for answers over custody death
THE “frustrating” lack of communication from the Attorney General on Aaron Rolle’s death in police custody has stalled his family’s bid for justice, according to attorney Christina Galanos yesterday.
keith bell hopes murder count will be 40 by 2016
STATE Minister of National Security Keith Bell said while he wishes the Bahamas will one day see a year of no murders recorded, he hopes the count will be no higher than 40 by 2016.
Beauty queens hop over for visit to The Bahamas
SIX beauty queens from around the world have arrived in The Bahamas for a week of fun and charity, all part of the vision of this year’s Miss Bahamas Earth, Vandia Sands.
Freedom of information 'critical' to reform of the economy
FREEDOM of Information legislation is “critical” for economic reform, according to the Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB) regional economic advisor, who called for greater inclusion of the academic community and wider society on policy matters.
Police informed over letter making Lady Pindling claims
THE Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) announced yesterday that it has informed police about a “fraudulent” letter purportedly bearing the signature of a senior executive that alleges Dame Marguerite Pindling owes the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) a substantial amount of money.
Munroe: penalty for webshops never mentioned
ATTORNEY Wayne Munroe, who represents the owners of five webshops, said yesterday that the government has never mentioned to him or his clients anything about imposing a “penalty” for revenue generated by the sector prior to regulation.
Two business raided within hours
TWO businesses on Pioneers Way were reportedly robbed at gunpoint on Monday, police said yesterday.
Man held over killing
POLICE arrested a 30-year-old man in connection with the shooting to death of Andrew Wood last month.
Grand Bahama shooting victim identified
THE man shot and killed last week at Coral Gardens has been officially identified as 22-year-old Jarreth Barry of Gambier Drive. Mr Barry’s death brings the homicide count to nine on Grand Bahama this year.
Successor to Sir Arthur has been chosen
PRIME Minister Perry Christie suggested yesterday that an official decision has been made about a successor to replace Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes, who will demit office in less than two weeks.
Tuesday, June 24
12 union-saving law creates a ‘win-win’
The Government’s recent 12 union-saving legislation helped produce what one labour executive yesterday described as a “win-win” in the Court of Appeal, with a Harbour Island resort and its opposition both achieving their main objectives.
BISX: Majority of stocks don’t move more than 5%
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) has “consistently” found evidence to support its method for calculating share prices, with most companies’ stocks never moving more than 5 per cent from the previous day’s close.
Briefly
EDITOR, The Tribune.
'Embrace new era' with investor citizen plan
By NEIL HARTNELL
Union chief seeks 100-133% increase in minimum wage
By NATARIO MCKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter
QC: Don't reward $35m Nygard 'law breaking'
By NEIL HARTNELL
Pension providers enjoy 'significant' 100% inquiry rise
By NEIL HARTNELL
Customer service crucial to success of tourism
DIRECTOR General of Tourism Joy Ann Jibrilu says exceptional customer service is critical to the success of the tourism and hospitality industry and must be a priority for all Bahamians.
Warm welcome in Washington for Tribune's cartoonist
JAMAAL Rolle’s portraits of significant public figures is bringing him international acclaim.
Top swimmers to represent Bahamas in Glasgow
When the Bahamas Olympic Committee ratifies the team for the Commonwealth Games next month in Glasgow, Scotland, the Bahamas Swimming Federation is hoping to have five swimmers included.
Elite athletes ready for Nationals
ELITE athletes at both the junior and senior levels will vye for national team roster spots and the right to be called national champions this weekend.
Call for removal of BTVI manager
MORE than a dozen employees of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) yesterday renewed their call for the removal of their manager, Dr Iva Dahl, as they protested in front of the school.
Banks 'will support' webshops after new Bill
ATTORNEY General Allison Maynard-Gibson yesterday said she was confident that proposed web shop regulations will be supported by the banking industry.
Bran would rule out Lady Pindling
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance (DNA) Leader Branville McCartney said yesterday that if he were the prime minister, he would “look elsewhere” for a Governor General and not to Dame Marguerite Pindling, based on the recent controversy surrounding her real property tax payments.
FNM: Fire Miller now!
FREE National Movement (FNM) Deputy Chairman Dr Duane Sands said yesterday Prime Minister Perry Christie should fire Leslie Miller as executive chairman of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) immediately or face more public embarrassment.
‘PM must be honest over his disclosures status’
PRIME Minister Perry Christie must tell the country whether he has been up to date with filing his public annual financial disclosures, Democratic National Alliance (DNA) Leader Branville McCartney said yesterday.
Attorney General silent on prosecution for non-disclosure - and her own status
ATTORNEY General Allyson Maynard-Gibson was tightlipped yesterday over whether or not she felt parliamentarians should be prosecuted for noncompliance with the Public Disclosures Act.
US man 'appalled' over handling of complaint against lawyer
AN AMERICAN is appalled that there has been no resolution to his complaint against a Bahamian lawyer in 2003 concerning alleged embezzling of $20,000 that stemmed from a mortgage dispute with a bank.
BEC chief denies claim of stolen electricity
BAHAMAS Electricity Corporation Chairman Leslie Miller yesterday denied “assisting anyone in getting free electricity” and facilitating illegal hookups at his Summer Winds Plaza Complex.
Independence celebrations to cost under $1m this year
THE committee spearheading the country’s 41st Independence Day activities said yesterday that this year’s events will be “scaled back” and executed within a budget of under $1 million.
'Door open' for national lottery
TOURISM Minister Obie Wilchcombe says legislation which seeks to regulate webshops in the country and “leaves the door open” for a national lottery will be laid on the table at the House of Assembly next week.
Questions arise over 'secret' award of landfill contract
FREE National Movement (FNM) Deputy Chairman Dr Duane Sands is calling on the government to give a “full and clear” account of the process that led to Renew Bahamas, a foreign-owned company, being selected to remediate the New Providence Landfill.
Votes cast in local elections
LOCAL government elections went smoothly in the three district councils in Grand Bahama yesterday, the 18th year since the implementation of local government in the Family Islands.
Monday, June 23
The people's voice
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Realtors to Gov't: Regulate appraisal 'game changer'
Bahamian realtors yesterday called upon the Government to pass laws regulating appraisal management companies, with the push by the Canadian-owned banks to foist such a system on the industry branded “a huge game changer”.
Dissenter: hotel's stance was 'Alice in Wonderland'
A dissenting Court of Appeal judge branded a resort’s argument that the hotel union ceased to exist as “Alice in Wonderland”, adding that common sense would “fly out of the window” if it was accepted.
Bimini developer's US appeal in peril
Resorts World Bimini’s appeal against a court decision upholding a US government ban on its night-time cruises appeared to be in peril last night, after it missed a key filing deadline.
No one is above the law, no matter their political persuasion
BASED on the amount of tax dodging we have seen recently it appears that only the poor, the unfortunate and – in some cases – the middle class, are saddled with paying much needed taxes, which would go a long way towards settling the country’s skyrocketing debt and underwriting capital works and essential services.
The perfect predator
The beautiful but voracious lionfish are now threatening the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem. Pam LeBlanc says that eradicating them is impossible - and if you can’t beat them, eat them
49 records erased
While the current stars made their presence felt, the Bahamas Swimming Federation got a good glimpse of the future as the 2014 Royal Bank of Canada National Swimming Championships was held at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex over the weekend.
Key doesn’t vote on budget - as Minnis defends ‘no’ vote
FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis defended the opposition’s decision to vote “no” on the government’s 2014/2015 budget branding it an “assault on democracy” and a “secretive, disorganised mess”.
DC Pratt making most of elite level training
BAHAMIAN Muay Thai fighter DC Pratt is making the most of his elite level training in the Muay Thai capital of the world.
Alana Dillette retires from competitive swimming
Swimming standout Alana Dillette has retired from the competitive side of the sport.
Freedom Farm dominates Baseball Nationals
ONE year removed from a controversial exit in the Bahamas Baseball Federation’s Andre Rodgers’ National Championships, the Freedom Farm Baseball League returned to the nation’s second city in 2014 to deliver a dominating performance.
Lawyer fears jail - but says he wont' pay $2,000 fine
LAWYER Geoffrey Farquharson, although “terrified” of going to jail, told The Tribune he will not pay a $2,000 contempt of court fine to avoid prison time.
No suspects in custody over missing $500,000
POLICE do not have any suspects in custody in connection with the $500,000, which was reported missing from the Customs office in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, according to head of the Central Detective Unit Superintendent Paul Rolle.
Miller: money is money - so why the controversy?
BAHAMAS Electricity Corporation Executive Chairman Leslie Miller said yesterday he does not understand the controversy surrounding the $100,000 cash payment his daughter made toward an electricity bill for his family-owned business last week because “money is money”.
Lady Pindling's tax bill paid in full
THE Ministry of Finance has received full payment for the more than $300,000 real property tax bill on the home of Dame Marguerite Pindling after it was revealed that she had not paid taxes on the home for 14 years, The Tribune understands.
No investigation over leak of BEC chief's bill
BAHAMAS Electricity Corporation Executive Chairman Leslie Miller said yesterday there will be no investigation into who leaked private information about electricity bills associated with him and his family-owned business to the press because “it is a waste of time”.
Children of foreign parents vulnerable to traffickers
CHILDREN born in the Bahamas to foreign-born parents are potentially vulnerable to human trafficking, according to the recently released US Department of State’s 2014 Trafficking In Persons Report for the Bahamas.
Eleuthera 'poised for economic resurgence'
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Bradley Roberts told Eleuthera residents over the weekend that the island is poised for an economic resurgence.
15-year-old detained after $30,000 of drugs found
A 15-year-old youth is in custody after he was caught allegedly attempting to smuggle $30,000 worth of marijuana into Nassau from Andros on Friday.
Miami stars heat up Abaco
LeBron James and Ray Allen traded their basketball shorts for swim trunks, their jerseys for tank tops and their basketball shoes for flip-flops before heading to the Bahamas for a post-season vacation.
Business hit by armed raid
POLICE are requesting the public’s help in solving an armed robbery that occurred on Friday.
Bahamians granted Nanjing University scholarships
TWELVE Bahamians are heading to China this summer to study at the Nanjing University after receiving scholarships from the Chinese Embassy. The delegates, who are learning Mandarin at the Confucius Institute, will attend a 19-day Chinese language and cultural programme.
Athletes make cut for CAC Jr Championships
WITH a little help from ‘Golden Knight’ Demetrius Pinder on Saturday at the Fritz Grant Invitational, Ashley Riley surged to victory in the open men’s 800 metres, joining a list of qualifiers for the Central American and Caribbean Junior Championships.
Sunday, June 22
Briefly
The beautiful but voracious lionfish are now threatening the Gulf
BISX eyeing record year on fund listings
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) is eyeing a record year for mutual fund listings, its chief executive revealing that at least 10 are anticipated before 2014 closes.
Building permit value down 34%
The value of new construction permits issued Bahamas-wide declined by 34 per cent year-over-year to $472 million in 2013, with the drop-off especially pronounced in Grand Bahama.
Retail entrepreneur urges 75% minimum wage rise
A well-known retail entrepreneur has called for the minimum wage to be increased by 75 per cent to $7 per hour despite acknowledging that such a rise would “be challenging for me”.
Planning bureaucracy delays Arawak Homes
Arawak Homes’s latest project has been delayed because the “paper isn’t moving fast enough”, its president backing revisions to a Planning and Subdivision Act that it believes is “too cumbersome” in its current form.
Landfill takeover's 'amazing' secrecy
A well-known Bahamian waste services provider yesterday said it was “amazing” that no details surrounding the New Providence landfill’s takeover by a private company had been supplied to the industry, describing the entire saga as “odd”.
Saturday, June 21
Pindling family quiet on tax as Dame Marguerite is sworn in
ON the day Dame Marguerite Pindling was sworn in as Deputy Governor General her family remained tightlipped over reports that a payment had been made on her outstanding real property tax debt.
$500,000 ‘missing’ from Customs office
POLICE in Abaco are investigating how around $500,000 allegedly went missing from the Customs Office in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, last month. North Abaco MP Renardo Curry confirmed to The Tribune yesterday that the matter is before police as to how a substantial sum of the Treasury’s money was misplaced.
Friday, June 20
UPDATED: Seven in hospital after shootings
SEVEN men are fighting for their lives in hospital after being shot in two separate incidents in New Providence on Thursday night. The Tribune understands all of the men have a criminal history and are “very well known to police.”
Briefly
By LAMECH JOHNSON
UPDATED: Man shot dead in Grand Bahama
GRAND Bahama recorded its ninth homicide when a 22-year-old Freeport man was shot in the Coral Gardens area on Thursday evening. The victim, who is known as Jared, was shot multiple times in his body and died of his injuries at hospital.
Swimmers make a splash on day 1
The Bahamas Swimming Federation’s Royal Bank of Canada 43rd National Swimming Championships got off to a splash as Joanna Evans and Alec Smith set the stage on day one, winning the gruelling 800 and 1,500 metre freestyle races.
Canadian guilty in $1m drug plot
A CANADIAN pilot whispered “I love you guys” to relatives seated in the Magistrate’s Court moments after he pleaded guilty to his involvement yesterday in a $1m drug plot that was foiled at the country’s main point of entry.
Bahamian chosen to serve with the US Coastguard
DEFENCE Force officer Darius Adams, 22, has become only the second Bahamian to gain acceptance to the prestigious United States Coast Guard Academy.
Computers stolen in school raid
TWO laptops, five projectors, parts of a public address system and cash were stolen from Thelma Gibson Primary School yesterday morning. Police are investigating the incident which school principal Donna Brown told The Tribune was discovered by on-duty security officers of a private firm.
FNM DEPUTY: BUDGET WAS POORLY PRESENTED AND CONFUSING
DESPITE strong criticism over voting against the Christie administration’s 2014/2015 Budget, the Free National Movement stood by its decision in a bid to highlight the lack of transparency and clarity in the government’s fiscal plans.
Key: Haitian descendents born in Bahamas should get citizenship
PEOPLE born in the Bahamas of Haitian descent are Bahamians and should have citizenship, according to Central and South Abaco MP Edison Key.
Millers paid off part of BEC bill with $100,000 cash - but that’s against rules
TWO Bahamas Electricity Corporation cashiers were questioned by management yesterday after they allegedly accepted $100,000 in cash towards paying off the electricity bill arrears for BEC Chairman Leslie Miller’s family-owned business.
The twin towers
IDENTICAL twin brothers Trevon and Trevin Woods, the first siblings since another identical twin brothers Devard and the late Devaughn Darling, are the latest products of the Frank Rutherford Foundation to ink their names out of high school in Houston, Texas, to full athletic basketball scholarships in the United States.
Debt may affect Governor pick
PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday said he was unaware of Dame Marguerite Pindling’s real property tax debt, adding that what he saw as a politically-motivated leak of her tax information was “impeccably” timed.
Carolina alumni set sights on The Bahamas
EVERY year, Saint Augustine’s University honours former graduates at its National Alumni Association conference. This year, for the first time, the conference will be held in The Bahamas, the first time outside the United States.
Oil drilling 'will not be a job creator'
Oil drilling in The Bahamas will likely generate work for no more than a handful of locals while putting thousands of tourism and commercial fishing jobs at risk, reEarth President Sam Duncombe warned.
'Make the right decision on Sir Arthur's successor'
FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Loretta-Butler-Turner is hopeful the government will make the right decision on the appointment of a new governor general amid a revelation that Dame Marguerite Pindling owes hundreds of thousands of dollars in real property taxes.
WORLD CUP EXPERT EYE: England on the brink after Suarez display
HIGH expectations for England to do well against Uruguay - but they could not deliver. It means they are in a position where if Costa Rica beats or ties Italy today they will be eliminated from the group.
Teenage girls among those held over possession of gun and marijuana
TWO teenage girls, a 39-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman are in police custody after they were arrested and accused of possession of an unlicensed firearm and marijuana on Wednesday evening.
Thieves must pay back victim
TWO men convicted of stealing in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court were ordered to compensate the complainant and to donate money to a local charity.
Double rapist faces delay before being sentenced
OSCAR Ingraham will have to wait up to six weeks before he learns his fate for two separate rape convictions in the Supreme Court.
Landfill maintenance halted since private firm took over
ENVIRONMENT and Housing Minister Kenred Dorsett confirmed yesterday that maintenance of the New Providence Landfill has been halted since a private company took over because fuel for operating heavy equipment has not been provided by the government.
Man in hospital after shooting
A 26-year-old Freeport man is in hospital with serious injuries following a shooting incident in the Coral Reef Estates area. Grand Bahama police have taken two men into custody in connection with the incident.
AML 'not terribly excited' despite 106% profit rise
AML Foods yesterday said it was “not terribly excited” about its first quarter net income more than doubling to $1.346 million, a result aided by a further 20 per cent reduction in shrinkage during that period.
$5bn-plus deficit creating economy 'realignment' fear
The Bahamas is facing a “troublesome realignment” of its external accounts, a former finance minister has warned, noting this nation has amassed a collective $5 billion-plus current account deficit over the past four years.
Airline launches new direct Bahamas flight
JetBlue Airways yesterday began daily direct flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA).
AML chief urges change to BISX pricing method
AML Foods’ chief executive yesterday called for the Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) to change the way it calculates daily stock prices, warning that a small 1,200 share trade can currently “wipe out” $1.5 million in value for his company’s investors.
BISX share index continues to rise
THE Bahamas International Stock Exchange (BISX) yesterday said it had seen a year-to-date increase in its All-Share Index of 3.13 per cent.
Balance the 'eye candy' approach
Employers have for many years seen the benefits of hiring front-line employees who have a high degree of physical beauty to welcome and serve their patrons.
Rosewood sends four Bahamians away for Baha Mar training
Rosewood at Baha Mar, the developer’s luxury hotel that is projected to open in December 2014, is sending four associates to train at the brand’s properties in the US, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Gov't urged to remove planning 'bottlenecks'
A well-known contractor yesterday urged the Government to identify and alleviate the “bottlenecks” in the planning and approvals process, particularly for single-family homes, claiming that such projects were pumping money directly back into the the economy.
Public office holders told: Settle all bills before taking posts
Senior business executives yesterday called for all public office holders to settle outstanding bills and taxes before accepting their positions, with the Chamber’s chairman urging that chronic defaulters be prosecuted.
Customs 'crashes' frustrate brokers
BROKERS yesterday blamed delayed import clearances on repeated crashes of Bahamas Customs’ electronic single window (ESW) system, despite recent assurances from its Comptroller that “all the kinks” have been worked out.
Bahamas losing $3m per week to sports fishermen
BAHAMIAN fishermen have backed proposed legislation that would limit the amount of seafood foreign sports fishermen are allowed to retain, estimating that this nation’s fisheries sector is losing $3 million a week to thisl practice.
Customs told: 'Red flag' cash payers
Customs was yesterday urged to “red flag” businesses that paid for commercial-size imports via cash or personal cheque, with the Chamber’s chairman warning: “We’ve got to squash the informal economy.”
Thursday, June 19
If Gray wants to run in 2017, he should just say so
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Why not junkanoo?
EDITOR, The Tribune
Briefly
Abilities Unlimited. - A patio and rummage sale will be held by Abilities Unlimited on Saturday, June 28, at Dolphin Drive, behind the BTC head office on JFK drive. The event will run from 7-11am and will feature books, ceramics, appliances, new/used clothing, used furniture, handbags, shoes and bargains galore. For more information, contact C Burrows on 326-6080 or 325-2150. For more information about Abilities Unlimited, contact abilitiesunlimited@hotmail.com.
Correction
• On Page 7B in Tribune Business on Thursday, June 19, a photo of a sword recovered off the Berry Islands was captioned as having been recovered by Roger Miklos.
When memories grow dim, history repeats itself
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell, who has taken leave of absence this year to represent the Bahamas at various meetings around the world, made it clear last year that his ambition is to retire from the PLP government “with a comfortable life”. He would also like to “continue to prosper with respect while no longer actively involved in public policy”.
PM confirms a number of MPs have failed to disclose assets
THE PUBLIC Disclosures Commission has expressed concern over the widespread failure of officials to comply with legislation mandating the turnover of annual financial declarations, Prime Minister Perry Christie told the House of Assembly last night.
Man guilty of raping his mother
A MAN faces up to 10 years in jail after being unanimously convicted by a Supreme Court jury of incest with his mother whom he held down and sexually assaulted for nearly six hours.
Miller’s family pays off $100,000 of BEC bill - and he says he won’t resign
THE daughters of Bahamas Electricity Corporation Executive Chairman Leslie Miller paid $100,000 on the electricity bill for their family-owned business yesterday, Mr Miller told The Tribune.
'62 murders - but major crime down'
ALTHOUGH 62 murders have been recorded for the year so far, statistics show that most major crime categories have decreased significantly, National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage announced yesterday.
Nygard prosecution urged 14 years ago
Government officials recommended that fashion mogul Peter Nygard be prosecuted for Town Planning Act breaches 14 years ago, newly-released documents have revealed.
LADY PINDLING OWES $306,000
DAME Marguerite Pindling has outstanding real property taxes amounting to $306,831.73 on her home in western New Providence and has not paid for at least 14 years, according to documents obtained by The Tribune.
Fellowship award for Bahamian
TODNEY Marsh has become only the third Bahamian to become a Fellow of the Academy of Life Underwriting (FALU) - and the second in her household to gain that distinction.
National beach soccer team members sign with the Sable Dancers
THEY have made several strides to spearhead the development of beach soccer in the Bahamas for more than a year, and now two national team members have achieved another milestone to raise the profile of the sport.
Jamaal Douglas secures professional basketball contract
BAHAMIAN forward Jamaal Douglas has secured a professional basketball contract to play for Club Atletico Marne Montevideo (Metropolitan).
Buddy Hield projected as late 1st round pick for 2015 Mock Draft
MANY pundits expected Buddy Hield to have a breakout season as a sophomore last year, and after meeting those expectations, the bar has been raised once again for the Bahamian lead guard headed into his junior year.
Minnis declines to say if FNM MPs will also say 'no' to salaries
FNM leader Dr Hubert Minnis refused to tell The Tribune yesterday if his party’s MPs will give up their salaries as part of rejecting the government’s budget.
Reservists will get owed pay, says Nottage
OUTSTANDING pay owed to hundreds of police reservists over several months is on the way, National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage confirmed yesterday in Parliament.
Man who held woman down while she was raped is jailed for seven years
A MAN has been sentenced to seven years in jail for aiding the rape of a woman who was assaulted on a boat docked at Potters Cay.
Private company 'ill-prepared' to take over work at city dump
A SUDDEN breakdown in services at the New Providence landfill is raising health and environmental concerns for workers and nearby residents, Deputy Director of Environmental Health Services Thomasina Wilson told The Tribune yesterday.
Nottage hits back at Smith over criticisms
NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday fired back at Deputy House Speaker Dion Smith who recently said his constituents in Nassau Village cannot feel the government.
Edison Key goes against party line over Budget vote
CENTRAL and South Abaco MP Edison Key will not support the Free National Movement’s decision to vote against the 2014/2015 budget, he said yesterday.
Resident calls for leadership in Grand Bahama
A CONCERNED resident says Grand Bahama is in need of visionary leaders who can turn the island around and bring Freeport back to its glory days. Mr Elkanah Pinder, a well-known resident of Pinder’s Point, said Grand Bahama is facing a crisis.
Bran blasts FNM and PLP over their lack of public disclosures
THE Democratic National Alliance’s membership has swelled to more than 30,000 people, according to leader Branville McCartney, who hit out at the government and official opposition over their lack of public disclosures yesterday.
DJ Varela performs on-air with 100 Jamz
VOTED top DJ in Panama, Gian Varela is no stranger to The Bahamas. He and two friends decided that this trip would be an ideal time for DJ Varela to express his love for his art to the locals in Nassau.
Nellie Mae's killer to challenge conviction
PRINCE Hepburn will contest his murder conviction and sentence at the Court of Appeal concerning Nellie Mae Brown-Cox’s killing on the basis that he was suffering from “diminished responsibility” at the time.
Woman arrested after $50,000 of marijuana found
POLICE arrested a 30-year-old woman on Tuesday night after accusing her of being in possession of $50,000 worth of marijuana in Nassau Village.
Boldly going into the future
YOUNG Bahamians from New Providence and Grand Bahama have been learning leadership skills in a joint venture between the United States Embassy and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.
Webshops contributing to cost of gaming consultants, says PM
WEBshop operators are contributing to the cost of the services for the government’s international and local gaming consultants, according to Prime Minister Perry Christie.
Overpass planned for flood-prone road
AN overpass/bridge is expected to be constructed at flood-prone Fishing Hole Road from the $12.6m that is allocated for the Ministry of Grand Bahama in the upcoming fiscal year. It is believed that government will seek assistance from three industrial companies in the area to contribute towards building the bridge.
Legislation to be brought to House over Intelligence Agency
NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage said legislation to regulate the controversial National Intelligence Agency will be brought to the House of Assembly soon after the government ends the 2014/2015 budget debate.
Boy held by police after school stabbing
A 16-year-old boy is in police custody accused of stabbing two Anatol Rodgers students during a brawl outside the school campus on Tuesday afternoon.
WORLD CUP EXPERT EYE: Era of tiki-taka Spanish football has come to an end
THE World Cup champions have been dethroned, the era of tiki-taka Spanish football has come to an end. Two brilliant goals by Chile in the first half left the Spanish shocked.
Changes planned for Bail Act
PRIME MINISTER Perry Christie announced yesterday that the government will make amendments to the Bail Act to prevent persons who are out on bail for serious crimes, specifically murder, to be granted bail a second time when charged with another serious crime.
Deputy PM denies claims of layoffs after BEC deal
MINISTER of Works Philip Davis yesterday denied that the government’s proposed break-up deal of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) will lead to mass layoffs.
Nygard Cay's 'paradigm shift' in Town Planning
A well-known QC yesterday expressed hope that “a paradigm shift in Town Planning” had occurred, after the Government announced a 21-day consultation period over Nygard Cay’s proposed redevelopment.
'Cease and Desist' order suggested for Nygard Cay
Nygard Cay’s near-doubling in size has resulted from development activity that frequently lacked the proper building permits, with structures not built “to normal coastal construction standards”.
'$22m donation' tie to salvage licence denied
The Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corporation (AMMC) chairman yesterday denied that underwater salvage/exploration licence approvals were being tied to multi-million dollar donations to preserve historic Bahamian sites.
Water Corp to cut Consolidated debt to under 90 days
THE Government is aiming to reduce the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s (WSC) arrears with BISX-listed Consolidated Water, its main supplier, to just under 90 days, after approving a $20 million subsidy for the 2014/2015 fiscal year.
Atlantis to refinance with seven-year loan
The $2.3 billion Atlantis debt refinancing will reduce leverage on the hotel and replace the existing short-term credit facility with a seven-year loan, Prime Minister Perry Christie revealed yesterday.
Wednesday, June 18
Did Mr Christie forget again?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Calvary Deliverance hosts 'Holy Ghost Revival Services'
SENIOR Pastor James Newry and Queenie Newry, along with the family of Calvary Deliverance Church will host a three-night “Holy Ghost Revival Service” June 23-25 at the sanctuary on East Street South. Services take place at 7pm nightly.
Healthcare for doctors boosted by new union agreement
AN agreement between the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) and the Bahamas Doctors Union this week will benefit 500 physicians and bring greater healthcare quality for Bahamians.
Making your point
By Rev Angela C Bosfield Palacious
Defeating the giant called Jealousy
By Rev Canon S Sebastian Campbell
Bahamas-registered domain in $7.5m deal
LONDON-based domian name seller, CentralNic, announced yesterday that it has acquired Bahamian-registered domain name retailer Internet.BS as it moves to enter markets in the Caribbean an Africa. CentralNic will reportedly pay a maximum of $7.5 million for the Bahamas registered business, of which $5.2 million will be paid upfront, comprising $2.7 million in cash with the rest to be satisfied through the issue of CentralNic shares.
Did you know?
Tithes have become synonymous with religious giving, but tithing was not always connected to religion.
Children begging on the street
EDITOR, The Tribune.
St James Anglican Church Celebrates Four-Night Revival
By ALESHA CADET
While you were asleep your enemy was working!
By Kevin L A Ewing
Week of monster grouper in Abaco
YOU never know what you are going to bring up from the depths of the ocean when you decide to deep drop and send a line down to 1,300 feet. The results make this the week of the monster grouper in Abaco.
Weak men fear women leaders
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Constant dribble
EDITOR, The Tribune.
A deserving leader
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Flying Fred
EDITOR, The Tribune.
New Destiny celebrates 12 years of Christian witness
NEW DESTINY Baptist Cathedral celebrated a 12-year milestone of Christian witness during its recently held anniversary service.
Father's Day Service highlights at St George's Anglican Church
ON Sunday, June 15, the valley was thundering with all the men at the Father’s Day service held at St George’s Anglican Church. The guest preacher was Bishop Cornell Moss- Bishop of Guyana, who delivered the sermon.
RBPF ready for summer camps - thanks to bank
BANK of The Bahamas is supporting the Royal Bahamas Police Force in providing safe and positive activities for youth at 16 summer camps in New Providence and the Family Islands.
'Gippie's Kingdom' fans gear up for dramatic season finale
THE CAST and crew of the Bahamas’ first soap opera, “Gippie’s Kingdom”, will celebrate their unforgettable season two experience as they view the final episode tomorrow night at the Conch N’ Kalik Bar and Grill Downtown Nassau.
Minnis plays down reports of FNM tensions
FREE National Movement leader Dr Hubert Minnis said he “is not familiar with any tension” between himself and Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner.
Cable Bahamas 'did what it had to do' over World Cup blackout
A UTILITIES Regulations and Competition Authority (URCA) official agrees that Cable Bahamas Ltd“did what it had to do” when it last week blacked out two basic cable channels that aired live coverage of the FIFA World Cup.
FNM hits out at Miller over unpaid BEC bill of $239,000
FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday said he has “no idea” what Prime Minister Perry Christie was thinking when he appointed Leslie Miller as executive chairman of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation in view of Mr Miller’s reported admission that he owes the corporation nearly a quarter of a million dollars in outstanding electricity bills.
Two more ministers say no comment on whether they broke law
TWO more government ministers declined to comment on whether they are up to date with their annual public disclosures.
Man ‘had no knowledge’ of alleged rape of mother
A MAN accused of having sex with his mother told a jury yesterday he had no knowledge of the alleged incident, which, according to a physician, left the victim in disbelief, feeling withdrawn and distraught.
Claims that BAMSI workers have not been paid overtime
PRESIDENT of the Bahamas Public Service Union John Pinder said he is investigating claims that some construction workers at the Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute in Andros have not been paid overtime.
Long lines, short tempers in queue for passports
IRATE passport applicants felt the brunt of the summer rush yesterday as they stood for hours outside the Thompson Boulevard Passport Office hoping to make it inside the building and out of the scorching sun to file their applications. When The Tribune arrived at the Passport Office around noon yesterday about 50 people were gathered under a plastic tent outside the building with some being forced to stand out in the sun with no shade at all.
Historic 'No' vote to Budget
OPPOSITION leader Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday that FNM parliamentarians will not support the Christie administration’s “deceptive” 2014/2015 budget which seeks to borrow $343 million for the forthcoming fiscal year.
Celebrations begin in Florida for 41st anniversary of Independence
THE Bahamas Consulate Office in Florida, The National Association Of The Bahamas (NAB), and key people in South Florida’s Bahamian community have teamed up to organise month-long activities to celebrate the country’s 41st anniversary of independence.
Accused is cleared over fatal drive-by shooting
A SUPREME Court justice directed a jury to acquit a man yesterday who was accused of a fatal drive-by shooting.
'Jazz In Bloom' a success a second time around
BAHAMIAN songbird Anuschka Wright believes in giving back to the community and supporting efforts that empower the youth through the creative arts.
VH-1's Taylour Paige to speak at Starmaker 5 Finale
THE winners of Starmaker 5 will be announced during the show’s finale, airing live on June 26 at 8pm from the British Colonial Hilton, and will feature actress Taylour Paige, who stars as Ahsha Hayes on VH1’s “Hit The Floor”.
Artist Spotlight: Mr Munnings
MADIO MUNNINGS was just 17 when the music and entertainment scene got its hook in him. His passion for music came after a friend convinced him to write eight bars of lyrics and record over a computer microphone with a sock as the filter.
Mr J speaks for Bahamians with 'I Need a Raise'
THE ISSUE of Bahamian Parliamentarians receiving a salary increase struck a nerve with local musician Mr J, who weighed in on the controversy with a new song, “I Need A Raise”.
For The Love of Theatre
WHILE she has always had an interest in acting and theatre, taking the stage for the first time sealed the deal for Bahamian actress Chrystall Bethell, who has recently starred in an Off-Broadway play. Now, the Nassau native, who has worked on local productions and American commercials, is pursuing a long-time professional career in acting.
Hotel chain renames its Paradise Island resort
Warwick International Hotels (WIH) is set to rename the 245-room Paradise Island Harbour Resort as ‘Paraiso by Warwick’, its first four-star resort in the Caribbean.
WORLD CUP EXPERT EYE: No match in Brazil is easy, despite who scores first
AFTER looking at all of the countries play their first round of group matches at the World Cup one thing is for certain: no match is easy, even if you score first. 47 goals have been scored, an average of 2.94 per match, with lots of upsets and entertaining matches. This has been the best start to a World Cup yet.
'The cut for this team is going to be extremely tough'
WHILE coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin will be returning home next weekend to complete the 12-member list for the women’s team to the Central Basketball Championships, the Bahamas Basketball Federation has decided that it will be more feasible to send the 19 players off to Colorado where coach Larry Eustachy is stationed before their final selection is made.
19th Annual 'Peace on da Streets' Basketball Classic set for July 16-19
THE Hope Centre and Youth Against Violence announced plans for the 19th Annual Peace on da Streets Basketball Classic July 16-19 at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.
$35,000 for National Swimming Championships thanks to RBC
IN showing their appreciation of the historic performances at both the CARIFTA swimming and water polo competition, the Royal Bank of Canada continued to show their support to the Bahamas Swimming Federation by presenting $35,000 for the RBC Bahamas National Swimming Championships.
Wanted man turns himself in
A MAN wanted by police turned himself into the Central Detective Unit in Freeport yesterday.
When will equality legislation be brought to Parliament?
SEVERAL disabled persons yesterday renewed their call for a definite timeline on when equality legislation will be brought to parliament.
Man held over murder
POLICE have a 21-year-old man in custody in connection with the murder of 26-year-old Rinardo Brown, who was shot and killed while visiting a woman at Cedar Terrace, Tall Pines, on Saturday night.
Analysts 'amazed' by complexity of webshops, says Wilchcombe
THE systems in operation at local webshops have surprised international lawyers and analysts who have said they have never seen such complex gaming systems, according to Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchombe.
Prison chief concerned about smuggled cell phones
HER Majesty’s Prisons Superintendent Patrick Wright said yesterday he is concerned by the number of contraband cell phones that are found in the prison and in the possession of inmates.
Trio charged with attack on police officer appear in court
THREE of the four young men charged with assaulting a police officer appeared in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Four in custody after gang rape
POLICE have four men in custody in connection with the gang rape of a woman early Monday morning.
Gibson clarifies his claim over 30,000 jobs
LABOUR Minister Shane Gibson yesterday clarified job figures he announced in the House of Assembly on Monday, telling The Tribune that the 30,000 jobs he said were created from May 7, 2012, to May, 2014 are a “mixture” of previously unemployed people and those who were employed, but had transferred to new companies from their current jobs.
Burning ambition for Beach Bash party
BURNING marlin sculptures by artist Bobby Little will be lit as the highlight of the Bimini Sands Resort and Marina Beach Bash bonfire celebrations later this month.
The flying doctor
BAHAMIAN pilot Dr Harold Munnings returned from a journey to New Jersey last week where he presented the Bahamian flag to members of the Albert E Forsyth Chapter of the Black Pilots of America.
July 3 for 'BTC 2%' agreement's closure
The Government and Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC) are hoping to conclude their ‘2 per cent’ deal over the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) by July 3, Tribune Business can reveal.
Realtors rail against Royal Bank 'pressure'
Realtors yesterday questioned why Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) was putting them under “so much pressure” to sign a controversial appraisal services management agreement, fearing it was adopting “divide and conquer” tactics.
Bank's AGM delayed by Gov't directors
Bank of the Bahamas is still unable to hold its annual general meeting (AGM) for the 2013 financial year because the Government has yet to supply it with the Board of Directors appointments, Tribune Business was told yesterday.
Commission 'beefs up' cap markets regulation
The Securities Commission yesterday said a three-pronged reform package would “beef up” its capital markets enforcement capacity, enabling it to deal with civil law breaches more efficiently and quickly.
Hotels enjoy 4% pt rise in occupancies, revenue
BAHAMIAN hotels are enjoying an average four percentage point occupancy increase to 60 per cent, the Minister of Tourism revealed yesterday, adding that room revenue was up by the same amount.
Miller’s BEC debts ‘don’t look good’
A leading businessman yesterday said the almost-$240,000 debt owed to the Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) by executive chairman, Leslie Miller, “doesn’t look good” and raises questions over whether he should stay in the post.
Atlantis goes country with three-day music festival
ATLANTIS will play host to the first ever Paradise Music Festival presented by HGTV on the American Labour Day weekend.
'Thank you' best way of internal marketing
A friend of mine, who shall remain nameless, absolutely hates working for the bank. She complains constantly about everything - the bosses, the clients, the hours, you name it. But she works, and works really hard.
Gov't and CWC 'cannot both be right' on BTC
Free National Movement (FNM) chairman Darron Cash yesterday charged that the Government and Cable and Wireless Communication (CWC) “cannot both be right” regarding claims to the majority control of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC).
LCF donor generosity goes a long way in supporting local artists and scholars
LYFORD Cay Foundation scholars and alumni are making waves on Bahamian arts and culture scene. From prestigious international exhibitions to the Central Bank of the Bahamas awards, Lyford Cay Scholars and artists are leaving their mark.
Tuesday, June 17
Thomas sixth, Pinder settles for fourth in Czech Republic
By BRENT STUBBS
Black-tie gala to top Bahamas Independence celebrations in Florida
THE Bahamas Consulate Office in Florida and the National Association Of The Bahamas (NAB), along key stakeholders within the Bahamian community in South Florida, have teamed up to organise a month of activities to celebrate the country’s 41st Anniversary of Independence.
We pay for their dreams
EDITOR, The tribune.
Banana Republic
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Bahamian and Haitian officials in bilateral talks
SENIOR Bahamian and Haitian government officials are in bilateral talks covering trade, technical co-operation and illegal migration. Negotiations in Nassau this week were said to have been fruitful in advancing the draft texts to be signed this summer.
Ya hear?
• Ya hear Disney Channel star Zendaya Coleman set to play Aaliyah in the upcoming biopic?
Bahamian fashion designer awarded in honour of Caribbean American Heritage Month
Award-Winning Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett will be presented with the Caribbean Style & Culture Award of Excellence in Fashion Innovation in Washington, DC on June 27 in honour of the ninth annual Caribbean American Heritage Month.
The power to overcome being overwhelmed
IVING overly stressed, anxious and having a lack of control, leads to being overwhelmed. To get out of feeling overwhelmed is a process.
Bahamian women demanding answers from men
BAHAMIAN women have pressing questions they want to ask men and they are determined to get answers.
Pure Purpose Network excited for weekend conference
FOR THE third time around, the ladies of the Pure Purpose Network are aiming to inspire change for the better for Bahamian women with their highly anticipated conference.
Governor General to step down next month
GOVERNOR General Sir Arthur Foulkes will officially demit office next month, according to a government source.
BEC chairman blamed for financial problems
BAHAMAS Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard yesterday blamed BEC chairman Leslie Miller for the corporation’s current financial problems.
Flowers would offer deal to small webshops
CRAIG Flowers, CEO of the FML Group of Companies, said yesterday that he would invite smaller webshops to operate under his company if they are unable to meet the regulation requirements the government may put in place.
Woman victim of gang rape
POLICE are on the hunt for a group of men they believed attacked and gang-raped a woman early yesterday morning. The alleged assault happened shortly after midnight off Robinson Road.
Gibson: 30,000 now employed who were out of work
THIRTY thousand people who were unemployed before May 2012 are now employed, Labour Minister Shane Gibson said in Parliament yesterday.
At least eight failed to file disclosures
AT least eight government ministers have not filed their public disclosures for this year as mandated by law, according to their own admissions.
Discovering nature
THE Bahamas National Trust (BNT) has a long history of pioneering innovative educational programmes for Bahamian youth, in hopes that they are nurturing future ecologists and environmentalists.
Pintard promises to defend rights of Bahamians in role as Senator
NEWLY appointed senator Michael Pintard promised to defend the rights of oppressed Bahamians during a ceremony yesterday when Governor-General Sir Arthur Foulkes presented him with his instruments of appointment.
Karate stars bring home the hardware
THE Bahamas Karate Academy and Nassau Martial Arts Academy, headed by sensei Erick McKinney and sensei Basil Damianos respectively, took a team of 23 athletes to the United States to compete in the Annual Miyagi Cup International Karate Tournament.
Three former football coaches honoured at Father's Day special
ASK Ronald Major, Robert Gilbert or Jack Knowles and neither one of them will tell you that they got into coaching softball for their own gratification. They were all glad to be awarded for their efforts, but they indicated that it was only for the betterment of the sport.
'It's all about building relationships'
FOR over a decade, local coaches have partnered with a group of US- based coaches to host a programme aimed at using basketball to develop the lives of young student athletes and the Bahamian community at large.
Steven Rolle dominates sculling races
STEVEN Rolle continues to dominate the National Family Island Regatta sculling races, taking victory at Salt Pond, Long Island, recently to follow his success in Exuma. He will race in the national championship in New Providence in November with Clifton Wells, who he beat into second place at Long Island, also taking a place.
Dredging done - but campaigners still concerned
ENVIRONMENTALISTS are more concerned than ever about the safety of Bimini’s marine environment in view of a developer’s “quick” dredging of over half a million cubic yards of material.
'When will nation know if it is victim of spying?'
HUBERT Chipman, FNM Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, said he is curious as to when The Bahamas will get an answer, if any, on the alleged recording of cellphone conversations by the US National Security Agency (NSA).
No arrests over 61st murder
POLICE have no one in custody in connection with the shooting death of a man over the weekend, the 61st murder of 2014 according to The Tribune’s records.
Abaco airport not fully functional
DESPITE its official opening more than two weeks ago, the new airport at Marsh Harbour is not fully functional, Transport and Aviation Minister Glenys-Hanna Martin revealed yesterday.
Customs department 'evolving' senior officer tells conference
SHERICK Martin, Assistant Comptroller of Bahamas Customs for Grand Bahama and Walker’s Cay, said the department is evolving and officers must be aware of the new initiatives implemented by Customs.
What is is that truly allows your body to heal?
What allows a body to heal? Do we have the ability to heal on our own or do we need outside intervention that will tell our bodies how to heal?
Sunscreen and hyperpigmented skin
JUST as any brightening regimen must be approached with diligence to experience results, daily use of sun protection is just as imperative.
2014 Green Earth Festival celebrates natural living
AFTER months of planning and preparing, organisers from NaturaLife – The Whole Life Company are anxious to witness the enjoyment, fulfilment and satisfaction of everyone who attends this year’s Green Earth Festival.
Youth Regatta Champions emerge
Spencer Cartwright, Paloma Cartwright, Tahj Ramirez, MaClean Goodfellow and Alvin Lewis emerged as champions in their respective categories of the Bahamas Youth Olympic Regatta in Montagu Bay over the weekend.
Fare rise for surrey rides may help pay for horse care
THE government is considering an increase in fares for horse surrey operators in a bid to ensure the upkeep and good health of horses, among several other long term changes to the service, Minister of Transport and Aviation Glenys Hanna-Martin announced yesterday.
CWC still claims 51% BTC ownership
Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC) is still claiming 51 per cent majority control of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), raising fresh questions over the Government’s assertion to have regained majority ownership for the Bahamian people.
'Terrified' for Bimini Marine protected area
Bahamians “should be terrified at the prospect” of the Government allowing Bimini’s developers to build on prime marine habitats, a well-known QC warned yesterday.
Cable scores 900 sport subscribers with World Cup
Cable Bahamas has added an estimated 800-900 subscribers to its sports package since the soccer World Cup started, with a senior executive confirming it was still trying to “clear up” transmission quality issues with the master Caribbean rights holder.
Court confirms 2,086 acres for Wilson's Eleuthera development
A Supreme Court judge has granted Franklyn Wilson’s Eleuthera Properties a Certificate of Title to 2,086 acres on the island, branding five rival claims to the land as “not credible”.
BORCO to deliver full year returns in 2014
The Bahamas Oil Refining Company (BORCO) is expected to generate “full-year run rate cash flows” in 2014, after its owner invested $380 million over three years to expand storage capacity by 20 per cent.
Consultant to advise over aircraft registry
The Minister of Transport & Aviation said yesterday that a company has been selected to advise on developing a Bahamian aircraft registry.
Businesses back Culinary team
Numerous Bahamian businesses are supporting the National Culinary Team in a bid to ensure Bahamian chefs have the chance to compete in the elite ‘Taste of the Caribbean’ Culinary, Cocktail and Ice Sculpting Competition held in Miami each year.
Chamber chair: Brain drain 'very concerning'
A leading private sector executive said yesterday it was “very concerning” that the Bahamas was losing two-thirds of its “brightest and best” to developed countries, with a major employer adding that it had done “more than our share” to provide opportunities for persons studying abroad.
HG Christie adds to realtor team
HG Christie has added well-known realtor Silvina Andrews and her almost-two decades experience to its team
Monday, June 16
Inappropriate behaviour?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
The truth about disclosures
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Sports in brief
BOWLING
Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Plagued by those silly fleas
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Minister Dorsett Attends Our Ocean Conference 2014
Environment and Housing Minister Kenred Dorsett left Nassau on June 15 to attend the Our Ocean Conference 2014 in Washington, DC.
parliamentarians pay tribute to bernard dupuch
By KHRISNA VIRGIL
COMING THIS WEEKEND: The Tribune's Top 5
This Saturday, a brand new online feature begins on tribune242.com: The Tribune's Top 5.
WEATHER WARNING: Possibility of flooding in low-lying areas
FORECAST FOR THE BAHAMAS FOR MONDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING
Plea for patience amid delays for passports
FOREIGN Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell has asked passport applicants to “be patient” and “not abusive” to staff at the Passport Office in the wake of reports that some applicants may have become unruly while waiting.
SMITH: OLD GUARD SHOULD LET THE NEXT GENERATION HAVE THEIR SAY
NASSAU Village Member of Parliament Dion Smith said he has a problem when young politicians are ridiculed by older members of their party for speaking their mind on certain issues, particularly when they are doing so in a respectful manner and for the betterment of the country.
Moss is confident he will contest 2017 vote
MARCO City MP Greg Moss remains confident of a 2017 PLP general election nomination and is “unmoved” by criticisms he has received from colleagues over critical statements he has made about the government.
MILLER BRANDS BEC UNION LEADERS AS ‘BLOOD SUCKERS’
UNION leaders who represent employees at the Bahamas Electricity Corporation are “blood suckers” who are only worried about filling their pockets, even if it comes at the cost of the Bahamian people, the company’s Executive Chairman Leslie Miller said yesterday.
YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: Nation at a fiscal crossroads
Today, is my first column back after a brief sabbatical and one notes that so much has transpired over that time. As I get back into the flow of things, I intend to assess a few of the issues that jump out at me and continue to do so as usual.
Gunned-down victim knew his killer
A MAN was murdered by someone he knew following a domestic dispute at a Tall Pines residence over the weekend, police said yesterday.
Second report says businesses are being hit
A SECOND report in a month by an international agency has warned that “rising murder rates”, specifically recent killings of tourists, in The Bahamas could affect the country’s business environment.
Men may have their acquittal challenged in their absence
THE Crown’s appeal against the directed-murder acquittal of three men may be heard in their absence.
Darron Cash’s wife exploring legal options after sacking
FREE National Movement Chairman Darron Cash said yesterday that his wife, Annette, is exploring every available legal option to challenge the basis for her “petty and frivolous” termination from the Bank of the Bahamas (BOB).
WORLD CUP EXPERT EYE: Argentina to win? I'm not so sure now
I SAID beforehand that Argentina is going to win the World Cup - I’m not convinced now. Although Lionel Messi scored a goal in their opening match last night I still think they were average and they will have to do a lot better.
Caricom honour for Marion
MARION Bethel, the Bahamian attorney, human and gender rights activist, filmmaker and acclaimed writer/poet, has been awarded the prestigious Caricom award for women. She is the first Bahamian to receive the award, which will be presented on July 1 in Antigua and Barbuda.
'Rediscover Your Ability to Dream' next month
AFTER turning his focus away from professional football, Myron Rolle has now shifted toward a life of scholarly achievement and philanthropy.
Raymond 'will always be remembered as one of the best competitors that I've personally coached'
RAYMOND Higgs may not have gotten the results he desired, but he will leave the University of Arkansas with some more credentials he achieved by highlighting the Bahamian contingent in key match-ups at the NCAA Division One Outdoor Track and Field Championships over the weekend in Eugene, Oregon.
Hitmen v Warriors rematch ends with a different twist
NORMALLY when a couple of former champions clash on the field, you would expect some fireworks between them. But Saturday night, the much anticipated rematch with the Arnette’s Sporting Lounge Hitmen and the BTC Warriors ended with a different twist.
Youngsters' words are inspirational
NELISSA Thomas of Queen’s College, Britney Gibson of Aquinas College and Jodi Ritchie of Queen’s College are the respective winners in the senior, junior and primary divisions of this year’s prestigious Laws of Life essay competition.
Baha Mar team reaches out to Family Islands
WITH more than 4,000 Bahamians set to be hired by the time Baha Mar opens in December, the $3.5 billion resort’s recruitment and outreach team is ramping up its search throughout The Bahamas for the best and brightest to join the growing Baha Mar team.
University of West Indies honours Sir Ronald
THE University of the West Indies has announced the award of an honorary Doctorate of Letters (DLtt) to outstanding Guyanese/Antiguan scholar, journalist and diplomat Sir Ronald Michael Sanders, 66, KCMG, KCN, AM, in recognition of his long and distinguished service to the Caribbean region and the wider world.
Caricom: A light not yet fully turned on
DR Franklin Johnston, a strategist, project manager and advisor to the Jamaica Minister of Education, wrote a column in the Jamaica Observer of May 30 in which he basically contended that the Caribbean Common Market and Community (CARICOM) and the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) are the constructs of “Anglophone black people” and not in the interest of Jamaica.
Doctor appears in court in bid to secure registration
A PHYSICIAN appeared in the Court of Appeal yesterday hoping to obtain a declaration that the Bahamas Medical Council should allow his registration to practice privately without any restrictions attached.
10,000 flock to Crab Fest
MORE than 10,000 people - from as far afield as China, Greece, Belgium, England, United States as well as The Bahamas - swarmed to Central Andros at the wekeend for the island’s long-awaited Crab Fest, one of the country’s largest annual cultural-heritage events.
Engine failures blamed for power outages
TWO engine failures at the Bahamas Electricity Corporation’s Clifton Pier Plant are to blame for the recent power outages across New Providence, according to BEC Executive Chairman Leslie Miller.
Bank celebrates six years in Cat Island
CELEBRATIONS to mark six years of the Bank of The Bahamas (BOB) branch in Cat Island has given executives the opportunity to emphasise the shift of focus from international expansion to local growth.
Gray warns of Ingraham return
V ALFRED Gray, Marine Resources and Agriculture Minister, predicts the return of former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham as leader of the FNM in a plot to oust current party head Dr Hubert Minnis.
Man arrested after sex attack
POLICE arrested a 33-year-old man who is suspected of an attempted sexual assault and stabbing that took place last Thursday.
Save the Bays to examine permissions for oil exploration
SAVE The Bays will request copies of all permits granted for oil exploration from the government with the view to considering whether they should be judicially reviewed, according to director Fred Smith.
Gov’t pension liability ‘absolutely staggering’
The Government’s unfunded pension liabilities have been described as “absolutely staggering”, a well-known financial expert noting they are projected to exceed 50 per cent of current GDP by 2032 without urgent reform.
Gov't impatience grows over South Ocean deal
The Government is growing increasingly impatient with South Ocean’s owner over finalising a preferred bidder for the property, with no formal application yet submitted to the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA).
Non-profit seeking partnership to fight 'unbelievable' piracy
Wreck salvagers and other heritage preservers will this week move to form a non-profit organisation that will work with the Government to combat “unbelievable” piracy that threatens a potential multi-million dollar industry.
‘Valiant effort’ to close BTC deal
The Government and Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC) still have not closed their ‘2 per cent’ deal over the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), despite making a “very, very valiant effort” to do so last week.
Kelly's battles 'Customs bully'
Freeport businesses must “fight the Customs bully” to preserve their rights under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, a well-known QC citing this as the reason for a major wholesaler’s continuation of a three year-old dispute.
Bahamas losing 2/3 of 'best and brightest'
Almost two-thirds of college and university-educated Bahamians have moved abroad to seek jobs in developed countries, costing this nation a sum equivalent to 4.4 per cent of annual gross domestic product (GDP).
Poultry producer in feed cost challenges
AN Abaco-based poultry producer is still being challenged by high feed costs coming off a “terrible December and January”, calling for the 30 per cent duty on imported poultry to be “tweaked a bit” as it was selling certain portions at a big loss due.
Real estate market 'fair' in first half
NASSAU-based realtors have described activity during the 2014 first half as “fair” and “steady”, with some noting significant activity in the high-end market.
Gaming 'double taxed' if subjected to VAT
A leading accounting firm has warned that casino gaming would be subject to “double taxation” if it was made ‘VAT-able’, undermining the industry’s competitiveness and ability to attract world-class tournaments.
Chamber gets on the move
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) will introduce its ‘Board of Directors on the Move’ initiative on June 18, in a bid to provide more accessibility to its members .
Sunday, June 15
School delivers 400 juice boxes to children's home
LUCAYA International School (LIS) donated 400 juice boxes to the Grand Bahama Children’s Home this week, the results of their fourth “juice box drive”.
What happened to democracy?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Please put sign up
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Creating links with China
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Fritz Grant Track and Field Invitational announced
THE Ambassadors Athletic Club is pleased to announce the hosting of the 7th Fritz Grant Track and Field Invitational on Friday, June 20 and Saturday, June 21, starting at 5:30pm and 3pm respectively.
Honesty over causes of poverty
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Saturday, June 14
‘GREENER BAHAMAS FROM OIL REVENUE’
“NONSENSICAL” was the way Bahamas Petroleum Company CEO Simon Potter dismissed the idea of using fossil fuel to provide energy for the Family Islands. Rather, he said, the potential oil revenues could fund a “greening” of the Bahamian economy.
Teen charged with attempted murder of police officer
A MAN was remanded to prison without bail yesterday after being arraigned in connection with a near-fatal shooting and endangerment of three police detectives last weekend.
Former Parliamentarian Bernard Dupuch dies age 81
TRIBUTES have been paid to former Parliamentarian Bernard Dupuch after he passed away in the early hours of yesterday at his Seabreeze home following years of declining health. He was 81.
Friday, June 13
Arrest in connection with police officer shooting
POLICE have arrested a 20-year-old man in connection with murder and the attempted murder of a police officer.
More criticism for Cable Bahamas over World Cup TV Coverage
By KYLE WALKINE
Gray insists agreement reached between government, vendor
DEFENDING his integrity, Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister V Alfred Gray insists that government had already made an agreement to accommodate a single mother of two who was forced out of her business at Potter’s Cay Dock in April for safety reasons.
Pilot gets bail in $1m drug seizure case
By LAMECH JOHNSON
Court of Appeal orders murder retrial for former prison officer
By LAMECH JOHNSON
Man accused of raping mother did not sign statement
A MAN accused of having sex with his mother refused to sign his record of interview in police custody after denying the accusation, a jury heard yesterday.
DION SMITH: Nassau Village 'frighteningly poor'
IN the House of Assembly yesterday PLP MP Dion Smith told the Christie administration that his constituents in “frighteningly” poor Nassau Village complain of not being able to “feel” the government.
FNM Deputy has not filed financial disclosures
FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner yesterday admitted that she has not filed her annual financial disclosures since 2012.
Moss ‘misguided’ in his criticism of VAT plans, says Fitzgerald
EDUCATION Minister Jerome Fitzgerald said yesterday that Marco City MP Greg Moss was “misguided” when he told parliamentarians that the government’s plan to implement value added tax (VAT) goes against party principles.
Pinewood drainage repair to cost up to $13M
A FEASIBILITY study for Pinewood Gardens’ storm water management is currently before Cabinet awaiting approval before work begins on drainage repair to the flood prone area. The repair is estimated to cost between $8 to $13 million, not the $25 million initially proposed.
Nottage says crime down - despite recent spate of murders
DESPITE a recent spate of murders and violent crime throughout the country, National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage said yesterday that crime is “trending downward” specifically in New Providence and within areas that have challenged authorities.
OWN GOAL FOR CABLE BAHAMAS
CABLE Bahamas incurred the wrath of sports fans yesterday after they cut all basic channels providing coverage of the opening FIFA World Cup football match.
Graduation class urged to pursue their dreams
THE 2014 graduating class at St Georges’ High School was yesterday encouraged to pursue their dreams and to live their life with integrity by Neko Grant, MP for Central Grand Bahama, who delivered the address at the school’s commencement exercise at the Grand Lucaya Resort.
Drug lord awaits decision over $250,000 fine or jail ruling
MEVLIN Maycock Sr is awaiting a Court of Appeal decision over his questioning its jurisdiction to order that he serve two more years in prison if he fails to pay a $250,000 fine. The Appeal Court had upheld his prison conviction for the possession of $1.2m worth of marijuana, but in doing so added the fine to better reflect the worth of the drugs confiscated.
Rainy weather expected to leave area tomorrow morning
RAINY weather is expected to continue sporadically throughout the northern Bahamas today but will leave the area tomorrow morning, according to meteorologists at the Department of Meteorology.
Oil exploration 'to begin next year'
BAHAMAS Petroleum Company’s chief executive Simon Potter yesterday expressed confidence that oil exploration will begin next year.
Memories denies strike by workers at resort
FREEPORT – Management at the Memories Resort denied there was a strike or any attempts by workers to strike as reported in a local newspaper, according to David Johnson, CEO of the Hotel Corporation of the Bahamas.
RBC gives $75,000 to COB
RBC Royal Bank yesterday awarded $75,000 to the College of the Bahamas to fund research and awareness initiatives related to the preservation of fresh water resources in the country.
Shaunae reflects on World Relays injury
On Wednesday, quarter-miler Shaunae Miller was featured on the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) website as she reflected on her injuries and the IAAF World Relays. Her comments were posted on the IAAF online diaries.
Soccer players head to Florida
Coaches and parents from the Grand Bahama Girls’ Developmental Soccer League will be taking a team of talented soccer players ranging in age from 11 to 15 years to Jupiter, Florida, for two full days of soccer this weekend.
Defending champs finish 1st in Junior Baseball League
THE defending champions Phillies, sponsored by Scotiabank, took home another 1st place finish in the Junior Baseball League action recently.
Concern as toddler waits for hours in police station
A CONCERNED father of six was shocked by what he saw inside a police station at midnight on Wednesday – a toddler, sleeping in the station’s foyer, awaiting the arrival of her absent guardians.
'Occupy Rawson Square' goes on for second night
PROTESTERS camped out at Rawson Square for a second night as the 48-hour occupation ends today.
Bigger, Louder, Thunder!
THE Bahamas Basketball Federation’s Summer of Thunder will get bigger and louder when the sixth annual version is held from August 2-25 at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.
More than $1m spent on sending migrants home
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell announced on Wednesday that the government spent over $1 million last year in repatriation costs for illegal immigrants.
The one that didn't get away
A HUGE bluefin tuna caught off Cat Cay this week has brought back memories of the golden era of Ernest Hemingway and Rybovich boats which made the waters around Bimini so popular for big game fishing.
Potter's Cay stall owner's dispute unresolved
TWO months ago, Wendi Constantine was enjoying the benefits of her stable seafood business under the bridge at Potter’s Cay Dock.
COB president search will soon close
THE search for the new president of the nation’s leading tertiary institution will soon come to a close, Acting President of the College of the Bahamas Dr Earla Carey-Baines said yesterday.
$4.1bn pension liability a ‘Titanic-sinking iceberg’
The Government’s unfunded public sector pension liabilities will hit $4.1 billion by 2032 without proper reform, a leading accounting firm yesterday describing this as “unsustainable” and akin to “the iceberg that sank the Titanic”.
KPMG urges Gov’t: Be ‘more aggressive’ over spending cuts
A leading accounting firm last night urged the Government to “take a much more aggressive approach” to cutting its projected $1.823 billion in public spending, describing the issue as “the elephant in the room”.
Solomon's Mines owner: No Diamonds Int'l sale
Solomon’s Mines’ owner yesterday denied it was currently seeking to sell the luxury goods retailer to Diamonds International or any other suitor, saying it would let the new management team “do their thing”.
'Domino effect' concerns over minimum wage
The “domino effects” from a minimum wage increase are the private sector’s main concern, a leading executive explaining yesterday that it could result in ‘across-the-board’ salary rise pressures.
KPMG HOPES GOV'T REVENUE PROJECTIONS 'CONSERVATIVE'
Any failure to properly implement Value-Added Tax (VAT) and better collect existing taxes will have a “material” impact on the 2014-2015 Budget, a leading accounting firm yesterday expressing hope that the Government’s revenue projections were “conservative”.
Development Bank moves to forge international ties
The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) is moving to forge strategic alliances with similar multilateral and international lending institutions, as part of its 2014-2018 strategic plan.
It's showtime in 50-mile road race
THE New Providence Cycling Association held a 50 miles road race on Whit Monday.
The faults that can damage your brand
Many people have become familiar with the damaged brands of General Motors, Target and Paula Deen Enterprises. Each of these entities made gross errors in their delivery of products and services, resulting in reduced customer loyalty and, ultimately, lower output and profits.
Cash: Unpaid land bills 'instructive' for VAT
The Free National Movement’s (FNM) chairman yesterday charged that the Government’s multi-million dollar unpaid bill for land it has compulsorily acquired was a good indication of how the Christie administration will treat Value-Added Tax (VAT) credits, warning that businesses should not expect to receive their payments on a timely basis.
Trust aiming to 'jump start' nature tourism
CITING the “immense potential” for nature-based tourism in the Bahamas, the National Trust’s (BNT) executive director believes an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funded project to promote the sector in Andros and Inagua could ultimately “jump start” the sector throughout the Family Islands.
Minimum wage rise would impact some hotel staff
THE Bahamas Hotel and Restaurant Employers’ Association (BHEA) said yesterday it would welcome the opportunity to discuss changes to the country’s minimum wage, acknowledging it would have implications for certain categories of workers within the industry.
Golf federation excited by team for Caribbean Championships
BAHAMAS Golf Federation’s secretary Oswald Moore said they are excited about the team they have put together to represent the Bahamas at the 57th Caribbean Amateur Golf Championships to compete for the Arthur Ziadie title.
Thursday, June 12
Bank celebrates sixth Cat Island anniversary
Bank of the Bahamas’ Cat Island branch has celebrated its sixth anniversary with a business reception, community sponsorships and appreciation day for customers. Head office representatives also travelled to Cat Island to attend the reception that was held at the branch in New Bight on June 4.
Clubs and Societies 06/13/14
Cycling Club Bahamas. - Morning rides west: Wednesdays & Fridays, 4:45am Goodman’s Bay, West Bay Street, 20-mile ride route: Headed east to Montague and return. One-hour duration, cyclists capable of 14+mph welcome (cyclists are invited to join in anywhere along the route). Contact Shantell the day before to confirm your attendance: shorelinecargo@gmail.com
Briefly
HERE‘S a riddle: Why would a Hurricane Alexandra be deadlier than an identical Hurricane Alexander?
PM cannot ignore vote
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Alternatives to VAT introduction
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Taking no action is murder
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Stuck in rudeness
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Sister Annie Thompson elected Prioress of the Sisters of St Benedict at St Martin Monastery
SISTER Annie Thompson, the guitar-playing nun whose heart as a young woman would quicken to the beat of goat skin drums, has been elected for the second time as Prioress of the Sisters of St Benedict at St Martin Monastery on Nassau Street. The term is for four years.
Saint Martin Monastery, an historic site
“STANDING on the shoulders of his ancestors,” Vicar Forane in the Bahamas, Father Hildebrand Eishhoff, diligently toiled to increase membership in the newly established Roman Catholic Church.
Words in the Bahamas that could come back to haunt the Heat
Just after they defeated the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, Miami Heat Coach Erik Spoelstra said the team mentioned the difficulty of winning a third consecutive NBA title just one time - months ago when the Ministry of Tourism and the Atlantis Resort hosted the heat to the historic training camp in October.
SEVERE WEATHER WARNING 2.30pm-5.30pm
THE BAHAMAS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY HAS ISSUED A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FROM 2:30PM EDT UNTIL 5:30PM THURSDAY 12TH JUNE 2014.
Discrimination over sexual preference blights those seeking medical help
TRAINING gaps among health and social service workers contribute to an environment of stigma and discrimination for men who have sex with men and sex workers, according to an international report.
Civic groups rally for Freedom of Information
ORGANISERS yesterday declared yesterday’s Freedom of Information demonstration an unprecedented success as representatives from civic groups across the country rallied in solidarity over the need for legislation that will give greater transparency to the government’s actions.
Gomez highlights conviction rates
SIXTY per cent of the cases that have gone to trial between January and April of this year have ended in convictions, according to data released by the Office of the Attorney General.
Child killer to appeal conviction
DEATH row inmate and convicted child killer Kofhe Goodman must wait four months before his appeal hearing takes place in the country’s second highest court.
‘Public is wrong over issue of raise in M.P. salaries’
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said yesterday that public opinion on the issue of MPs getting a raise and a new Parliament is “wrong” and “pure foolishness”.
Police officer shelters in webshop after being shot in chest
POLICE are on the hunt for three men who shot and critically injured a police officer during an attempted armed robbery yesterday afternoon.
U.S. to answer N.S.A. spy claim
JOHN Kerry, the United States Secretary of State, has stepped in to oversee the investigation of reports that the National Security Agency is intercepting and recording all cell phone conversations in The Bahamas, with the ability to store them for up to 30 days.
Thousands left without power by lightning storm
THOUSANDS of Bahamas Electricity Corporation customers were without power for several hours early yesterday morning when, during a lightning storm, the company’s transmission and distribution systems were damaged.
Sports fishing restrictions 'could harm tourism'
A SENIOR government official yesterday urged legislators not to impose additional restrictions on foreign sports fishermen, insisting that such a move could negatively affect the country’s tourism industry.
Confirmed: Wife of Cash no longer employed by bank
BANK of the Bahamas sent out a company memo on Monday informing the staff that Annette Cash, wife of Free National Movement Chairman Darron Cash, is no longer employed at the bank.
Bringing the taste of lionfish to the Big Apple
A NEW Bahamian restaurant specialising in gourmet lionfish dishes is making waves in the Lower East Side of New York.
Pair held over gun find
TWO men, ages 21 and 27, are in custody after they were arrested on Tuesday accused of possessing an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Drowned American identified
GRAND Bahama Police have released the name of the American visitor who reportedly drowned in Abaco as 63-year-old Russell Weisbender, of Manhattan, Kansas.
Griffin: Poverty statistics were expected due to global recession
SOCIAL Services Minister Melanie Griffin told The Tribune yesterday that while she was surprised by statistics that show an increase in poverty in the Bahamas, she expected it given the recent global recession.
Rekindling history
RENOVATIONS to convert the historic Polhemus House in the grounds of the convent of St Martin de Porres Monastery on Nassau Street into a retreat are underway.
F.N.M. deputy's comments on new B.T.C. C.E.O. 'disgraceful'
AGRICULTURE Minister V Alfred Gray branded as “disgraceful” comments from FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner who on Tuesday said appointing Leon Williams as the Bahamas Telecommunication Company’s new CEO is a step backward.
Marlins are just darlin' for champions
AS HAS become the formula to win a Bahamas Billfish Championship (BBC) round this season Marlin Darlin’s three blue marlin, one white marlin and a sailfish earned victory in the Treasure Cay Championship.
Praise in Parliament for Major League hopefuls
Accolades continue to pour in for the dynamic trio of Bahamian teenagers recently chosen in the 2014 Major League Baseball Draft.
Chasing the pro football dream
The next step on the path to professional football for one Bahamian gridiron star will now take him to Canada.
New Christian Council president welcomes non-traditional churches
NEWLY-elected Grand Bahama Christian Council president Rev Peter Pinder said he welcomes the many non-traditional churches that have emerged on the Christian scene. He is calling on all churches to embrace the diversity of church bodies that are reaching people and winning souls for Christ.
Bahamas takes on top teams in beach soccer contest
Quality Beach Soccer recently traveled to Virginia Beach last weekend to represent The Bahamas in the North American Sand Soccer Championships, June 6-8th.
Lawyer to contest contempt ruling
A LAWYER is to appear in the Court of Appeal today to contest a Supreme Court judge’s ruling finding him in contempt of court.
Opposition MP Key praises government
AN FNM member of Parliament yesterday praised the government for its progress and expressed optimism that the Prime Minister was set to leave behind a legacy with the success of the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI).
Lucaya International students honoured
STUDENTS from Lucaya International School (LIS) are getting ready to head to universities across the United States, Europe and Canada after graduating from its International Baccalaureate Diploma programme.
Atlantis cautious but group pace 25% faster
Atlantis’s top executive is remaining cautious despite a group booking pace for 2015 and 2016 that is 25 per cent faster than this year’s, adding of 2014 to-date: “We’re exactly where we thought we’d be.”
Dissenter: Bimini dredge permit was 'rabbit out of hat'
Despite a dissenting judge finding that the “rabbit-like production” of a dredging permit “cannot pass muster”, the Court of Appeal majority yesterday ruled that the lower court was correct to remove the bar on Resorts World Bimini’s dredging.
Super Value chief: $200 minimum wage acceptable
Super Value’s owner yesterday said he could accept a 33 per cent increase in the weekly minimum wage to $200, agreeing that “nobody can live” on the existing $150 per week.
Insurance fear on inflationary impact from VAT
A leading Bahamian insurer has expressed concern about a potential “one-time” balance sheet hit if claims reserves are not sufficient to absorb the 7.5 per cent Value-Added Tax’s (VAT) inflationary impact.
Bahamians urged: 'Pull hard for Leon's success'
Bahamians employed by multinational companies were yesterday urged to “pull hard for Leon Williams to succeed” at the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), a leading businessman suggesting this could pave the way for them to take top executive posts.
Bahamas pledges travel agent reward initiative
Top US travel agents have been given an authentic taste of the Bahamas via the Ministry of Tourism and premier travel magazine, Travel & Leisure.
Small businesses seek 3-year VAT bedding in
Bahamian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) want “fair play” and a “consistent” three year Value-Added Tax (VAT) implementation strategy, a leading consultant said yesterday, citing a potential fall-off in consumer spending as a primary concern.
Fiscal deficit contracts 32%
The Government’s fiscal deficit contracted by 32.2 per cent to $260.8 million for the first nine months of the 2013-2014 Budget year, driven by a drop in capital spending and increased non-border tax revenue.
ART OF GRAPHIX: The Picture across the digital divide
Is ‘film photography’ superior to ‘digital?’ Read any print or online photography magazine and you would think that digital photo capture just might be the ‘second coming’.
BNT 'desperate' for increased funding
THE Bahamas National Trust (BNT) is “seriously concerned” and “desperate” for much-needed funding, its executive director said yesterday, expressing confidence nonetheless that it could raise sufficient.
'Champ' making strides through minor leagues
As much of the country focuses its the attention of the the latest trio with an opportunity at the major league’s, the sole Bahamian draftee of 2013 continues to make strides in the minor league farm system.
Bahamian resorts in improving trend
BAHAMIAN resorts appear to be trending towards a slight improvement in occupancy rates and overall room revenue for the first five months of 2014, the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) president said yesterday.
Wednesday, June 11
Remembering Rev Dennis Clarke - a patriarch and community leader
By ALESHA CADET
Three party race harms FNM and DNA
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Build up the homes
By Rev Canon S Sebastian Campbell
Fathers to be honoured in special service
THE Bahamas Gospel Fest International (BGFI) is celebrating its first annual Fathers’ Day Honorary Service and Concert to be held this Sunday at the New Covenant Baptist Church East West Highway at 6pm.
Battle Cry Conference aims to "change lives"
IN AN effort to inspire youths to reach higher heights and develop a stronger fellowship with Christ, the Salem Union Baptist Church is hosting its Battle Cry Conference.
Catholics to honour fathers with a gala banquet
THE Archdiocesan Catholic Men’s Association (ACCMA) will hold a celebratory gala banquet to honour 24 Catholic fathers on Friday, June 20, at the Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort & Spa.
Briefly
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Support for two new national parks
PLANS for two new national parks in Grand Bahama - at Northshore/Gap and East Grand Bahama - have the support of residents and The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), a public meeting organised by the government has heard.
Keep trying to stop crime
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Community Outreach Centre in need of assistance
ON NOVEMBER 25, 2012, St David’s Methodist Church in Grand Bahama honoured the longest serving local preacher within the Methodist Church in the Bahamas and in the Caribbean, Evangelist Lloyd Fuller Quant. Evangelist Quant has been serving the church for more than 80 years as a local preacher, ever since 1934.
TOUGH CALL: A Bahamian in Normandy
As we eased along the peaceful wooded lanes in Alan Wilson’s green Bentley, it was hard to believe that one of the bloodiest battles of the Second World War lay just around the corner.
“Road to Macy’s Concert”
IN PREPARATION for one of their biggest performances yet, the Bahamas All-Star Marching Band is hosting the “Road To Macy’s Concert” – a unique event that will fund the musical group’s trip to New York in November.
Gambling - creating a future problem?
BAHAMAS Faith Ministries founder, Dr Myles Munroe – although gambling is against his religion – has drawn his breath in long enough to tolerate a more emasculated version of the devil in the form of a national lottery rather than a licensed webshop industry.
Officer happy to be back to work after being shot
POLICE Superintendent Clayton Fernander is happy to be “back to work” after continued therapy for the damage done to his right hand the night he was shot by two men during a botched robbery in the driveway of his home.
'Water park not a scam' - but investors have dried up
THE multi-million dollar water park that has been dubbed a “scam” by some may have to be put off until next summer as people have been trying to destroy the park’s reputation before it is even opened, according to the Chairman/CEO Patrick Ferguson.
Gray warns new politicians not to be 'fast on their tongue'
NEW generation politicians must learn not to be “fast on their tongue”, MICAL MP V Alfred Gray warned yesterday explaining that a mistake can lead to the end of a political career.
Rollins defends right to express different views
FORT CHARLOTTE MP Dr Andre Rollins yesterday warned Progressive Liberal Party “loyalists” that they are setting a “dangerous” precedent by criticising members of the party who express differing views from the party line.
SEVERE WEATHER WARNING 11.30AM - 1.30PM
THE BAHAMAS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY HAS ISSUED A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FROM 11:30 AM UNTIL 01:30 PM WEDNESDAY 11TH JUNE 2014.
More than 40,000 live under the poverty line
CHILDREN under 14 have the highest poverty rate in the Bahamas as national statistics released yesterday reveal more than 40,000 persons in the country live under the poverty line on less than $5,000 per year.
Pair jailed for shooting top cop
YESTERDAY’S conclusion of the Supt Clayton Fernander shooting case ended with Excel Josey and Maurice Armbrister being sentenced to 17 and 19 years in prison respectively for the attempted armed robbery and attempted murder of the senior police officer.
'Webshops may be fleecing customers'
WEBshops may be “fleecing” its customers out of winnings from unregulated electronic slot games, Gaming Board Chairman Dr Andre Rollins told the House of Assembly yesterday.
BTC callback for Williams
PHIL BENTLEY, Chief Executive Officer of Cable & Wireless Communications, says yesterday’s decision to appoint Leon Williams, a Bahamian, as the new CEO of Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) was made without government interference.
Into the blue
THE Atlantis resort on Paradise Island announced a new website for the Atlantis Blue Project, a programme dedicated to saving sea species and their habitats throughout the Bahamas and surrounding Caribbean seas.
US man dead in apparent drowning
POLICE in Abaco are investigating an apparent drowning on the island that has left a 63-year-old American citizen dead.
Three-day strike plan has not gone away - but still no date from congress president
TRADE UNION Congress President Obie Ferguson said thousands of workers are still preparing for a massive three-day strike despite National Congress of Trade Unions Bahamas President John Pinder telling The Tribune that the strike is “unlikely to happen.”
Film to highlight life on Cay
SHOWCASING the beauty and biodiversity of an island is not easy to do in under 15 minutes, but this is the job that Matt McCoy of Loggerhead Productions did while working with the Bahamas National Trust and National Audubon to create a spectacular short film about these cays and tidal creeks that are usually only seen by fishermen frequenting the Joulter Cays.
Williams appointment 'a major step backward'
THE appointment of board director Leon Williams to the post of CEO at the Bahamas Telecommunications Company is “nothing short of a major step backward”, according to FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner.
Solar panels to cut school power bills
THE Ministry of Education plans to install solar panels at some government schools in an effort to lower its $5m electricity bill, Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald said yesterday.
Engine catches fire on Bahamasair flight
BAHAMASAIR is conducting an internal review of the circumstances that led to an engine fire on board a commercial flight to Eleuthera last week.
Cash says Pintard will take down PLP giants
FNM CHAIRMAN Darron Cash thanked PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts for reminding the public that newly appointed Senator Michael Pintard is a fearless fighter who is “unafraid of a challenge” and will take down the giants of the PLP.
Rolle tells of bitter pill after being cut by the Lynx
IT was a bitter pill for Waltiea Rolle when she was cut by the Minnesota Lynx just before the start of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) 2014 season.
Moody's: Gov't in $60m revenue over-estimate
The Government is over-estimating its revenues for the 2014-2015 fiscal year by more than $60 million, a rating agency yesterday warning that the Bahamas’ creditworthiness will be subject to continued “downward pressure” for the next 12-18 months.
Private sector: We'll withdraw VAT consent if no wider reforms
The Bahamian private sector yesterday warned it will withdraw its consent to Value-Added Tax (VAT) “at any percentage” if the Government fails to follow through with wide-ranging fiscal reform, saying of the latter: “It’s not an if; it’s a must.”
Minimum wage rise plan 'dangerous, ludicrous'
Private sector leaders yesterday branded the Government’s plans to increase the minimum wage as “dangerous” and “ludicrous”, warning that it risked increasing unemployment and further undermining the Bahamas’ cost competitiveness.
Baha Mar promises no $10m draw down
Baha Mar has pledged not to ‘draw down’ a $10 million Letter of Credit posted by Morgans Hotel Management Group, as it bids to end their court dispute following termination of the latter’s 20-year operating deal.
BTC goes ‘back to the future’ with Williams
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday confirmed it had gone ‘back to the future’ with the long-awaited return of Leon Williams as its chief executive, its controlling shareholder denying there had been “pressure” from the Prime Minister or Board for his appointment.
BTC share deal close 'imminent'
CABLE & Wireless Communications (CWC) chief executive, Phil Bentley, said yesterday that the conclusion of the ‘2 per cent of shares’ in the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) deal with the Government was “imminent”.
Man convicted of armed robbery
A MAN is awaiting sentencing after a jury unanimously convicted him of robbing a man at gunpoint of cash and a cellphone in a bar.
Weather warning
THE public should expect adverse weather conditions to last until late Thursday, Department of Meteorology officials said yesterday.
Freedom of Information rally to be held today
CIVIC and political organisations across The Bahamas are expected to meet in Rawson Square today to demand Freedom of Information legislation from the government as parliamentary debate on the national budget continues.
Bahamas to host football game at national stadium
THE HBCUX Network, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (BMT), Central State (CSU) and Texas Southern (TSU) Universities held a joint news conference in Nassau, Bahamas on May 21 to announce the inauguration of the “Bahamas HBCUX Classic,” an American football game between CSU and TSU to be held at Nassau’s Thomas A Robinson Stadium on Saturday, September 13, 2014.
Major League draft shows a bright future for Bahamians
WITH the drafting of three Bahamians into the Major League baseball over the weekend, the future looks bright for the Bahamas.
Selection narrows for national team
AFTER the second tryout over the weekend, the women’s national team has been reduced to 15 with the final 12-member cut expected to be made during the training camp over the weekend of June 23, leading into the two weeks before they travel to the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Tournament in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.
BFSB announces five Landfall promotions
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has teamed with its Ministry of Financial Services co-sponsor to schedule five Bahamas Landfall events between August and October, as it targets business opportunities in Latin America and China.
VAT real estate 'game changer'
Value-Added Tax’s (VAT) impending implementation may give buyers “the push” to secure properties before January 1, one realtor suggesting: “It may be better to do it now rather than seven months from now.”
Resorts World in local hiring
Resorts World says it hired dozens of Biminites following a Career Fair held on the island last Wednesday.
Out Island hotels in 15% occupancy boost
Family Island hoteliers believe an aggressive marketing approach has helped increase tourist arrivals by 14.7 per cent year-over-year for the 2014 first quarter.
Gov't urged: Direct privatise proceeds to debt reduction
The Government was yesterday urged to “restrict” all proceeds derived from public asset sales, such as the impending Bahamas Electricity Corporation (BEC) privatisation, solely to paying down the $5.567 billion national debt.
Bank says E-Alert gaining traction
Bank of the Bahamas (BOB) says its eNotifier service, which keeps customers in touch with their accounts at all times, is gaining increasing customer acceptance.
Economist urges education, not minimum wage, focus
INCREASING the minimum wage could ultimately reduce employment and limit the ability of the economy to grow, a top Bahamas-based economist warned yesterday, urging the Government to instead focus on increasing the skills and productivity of the workforce.
Tuesday, June 10
Softball double header
THE New Providence Softball Association, with the past two plsying nights called off, will now resume play in its regular season on Thursday night at the newly renovated Bankers Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex with a double header on tap.
Artist Spotlight: Tony Bryte
BASED on the quality of the music he has put out so far, Bahamian performer Tony Bryte said the possibility of him becoming a household name in the near future is a very real one.
"Scandal" star sets stage for Bahamian actors
A UNIQUE opportunity will be afforded to local actors and actresses when “Scandal” star Jeff Perry and award-winning casting director Linda Lowy make their way to Nassau to participate in the Bahamas Artist Movement’s upcoming workshop.
Ya Hear
• Ya hear Love & Hip Hop Atlanta star Stevie J has been arrested?
Noshi Curry sings for peace
SINGING for a cause brings Bahamian musician Noshi Curry great pleasure. Therefore, the young New York-based performer, composer and director has banded together with several other artists for a project to promote peace.
Andros Crab Festival is coming
“CHURCH out, crab crawling.” – Yes, it’s that time again. Touted as one of the best parties under the Bahamian sun, the 17th annual All Andros Crab Festival is set to be held in Queen’s Park in Fresh Creek, Andros, this weekend.
Miss Teenager Bahamas shows national pride
WITH nine competitive youthful beauties ready to take the stage, Miss Teenager Bahamas will officially host their first ever pageant on June 29 at the Wyndham Crystal Palace Resort and Casino.
Grand Bahama Regatta announces entertainment lineup
THE Grand Bahama Regatta and Heritage Committee has announced this year’s entertainment lineup.
BHS launches fifth annual photo contest
The Bahamas Humane Society has announced its fifth annual photography contest sponsored by Mr Photo and Bahamas Local. Photographers of all ages can participate in this fun competition.
Cat Island celebrates rake n' scrape
BAHAMIAN culture and music were celebrated during the Rake n’ Scrape Festival held in Cat Island over the holiday weekend.
Bahamian filmmaker wins at the Africa Movie Academy Awards
BAHAMIAN filmmaker Kareem Mortimer is once again adding to his trophy case, this time with a prize from the prestigious annual Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).
Davis Jr shines in Grand Bahama battle
THIS past holiday weekend, all eyes in the Bahamian golfing community were focused on the island of Grand Bahama where the Bahamas Golf Federation held its 2014 National Amateur Championship.
Gambling - creating a future problem?
BAHAMAS Faith Ministries founder, Dr Myles Munroe – although gambling is against his religion – has drawn his breath in long enough to tolerate a more emasculated version of the devil in the form of a national lottery rather than a licensed webshop industry.
Careers fair held at BTVI
INSIGHTS into the requirements, vetting process and benefits of careers proved beneficial for students of The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) at a public services summer job fair recently.
Webshop licences – heading for a collision
ALREADY Government’s plan to regulate and tax webshops is headed for the shoals.
Sugar + Spice
ALTHOUGH she has several educational qualifications that can be listed behind her name, Bahamian businesswoman Raeh Williams prefers to be known as an entrepreneur, simply because it is the truest description of who she is professionally.
SEVERE WEATHER WARNING 3.30pm-8.30pm
THE BAHAMAS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY HAS ISSUED A SEVERE WEATHER WARNING FROM 3:30PM TUESDAY …UNTIL 8:30PM.
SEVERE WEATHER WARNING
The Bahamas Department of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning from 1.30 pm Tuesday until 3.30pm.
Still no arrests despite $25,000 reward offer
IT HAS been almost three months since the brutal killing of British citizen Edgar George Dart in Grand Bahama and no arrests have been made, despite a $25,000 reward which was offered for information leading to the arrests of those responsible.
Campaigners to take Bimini dredging appeal back to the Privy Council
THE Court of Appeal rejected the Bimini Blue Coalition’s appeal against the Supreme Court’s decision to discharge the Privy Council’s injunction on dredging activities last week Thursday, prompting the environmental group to now seek an appeal before the Privy Council in London.
Mitchell to reveal NSA spy report to Parliament
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell will present a full report in Parliament this week on the investigation into reports that the US’ National Security Agency (NSA) is intercepting and recording all cellphone conversations in the Bahamas.
Policeman shot by teenager during arrest
A POLICE officer is recovering in hospital after he was shot by a teenage boy during an arrest on Sunday evening in Elizabeth Estates.
Youth hurt in Fish Fry gunfight
A 19-year-old youth is fighting for his life in hospital after he was shot multiple times during a shoot out on Arawak Cay early Saturday morning.
Pair convicted in Supt Fernander case get 19 and 17 year sentences
Excel Josey and Maurice Armbrister were sentenced to 17 and 19 years in prison respectively.
Moss slammed over V.A.T. blast
PLP chairman Bradley Roberts criticised Marco City MP Greg Moss yesterday for speaking “out of turn” when he said implementing value added tax “goes against the principles of the party”.
Pintard 'a two-time loser' says Roberts
THE senator appointed last week by the Free National Movement to replace John Bostwick was described last night as a “two-time loser and a political retread” by Bradley Roberts, chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party.
The eight-year-old Bahamian pastry chef
TAYLOR Moxey is living proof that age does not limit your ability or ambition.
Breast cancer genetic testing reaches Eleuthera
DURING the month of May, a team from the Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative Foundation (BBCIF), led by its executive director, Melissa Major, and including genetic counsellor Magan Trottier and BBCIF volunteer Kitiboni Adderley, visited Eleuthera to conduct testing for the BRCA gene which pre-disposes carriers to breast cancer.
Teen stabbed, two men shot
A teenager was stabbed and two men were shot over the holiday weekend in separate incidents in the Freeport area.
Gibson: Govt seeking to protect Bahamian waters
DURING a nationally televised Labour Day address Labour and National Insurance Minister Shane Gibson stressed that the government is focused on amending legislation and establishing policies that will protect Bahamian workers.
Would you want to find THIS on the beach?
WHILE many Bahamians were enjoying the Bank Holiday weekend one group of environmentalists were hard at work in Grand Bahama to mark World Oceans Day. Volunteers from Earthcare cleaned the beach at Williams Town on Sunday, one of hundreds of events worldwide to inspire people to get involved in solutions for a healthy ocean and society by supporting clean energy choices, trash-free coasts and beaches, sustainable seafood and more.
Bahamian students among Minnesota graduates
TWO Bahamian students participated in the commencement ceremony at St John’s University, Collegeville, Minnesota, last month.
Memories resort workers 'are getting crumbs'
KIRK Russell, vice-president of the Bahamas Hotel Managerial Association, claims that workers at the newly-opened Memories Resort in Grand Bahama are being paid salaries that are below hotel industry standards.
Trio can earn chance at Major Leagues
IN another historic selection process for the Bahamas, graduating room-mates Anfernee Seymour and Todd Isaacs were joined by near by high school resident Byron Murray as members of the Major League Class of 2014 Draft that took place over the weekend in Secaucus, New York.
Minister says no factual basis to claims of missing funds
CONCERNS over whether funds have been misappropriated by local government officials in Bimini have no factual basis, Agriculture, Marine Resources and Local Government Minister V Alfred Gray said yesterday.
Caribbean urged to push back against China
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - Regional economist Carl Howell urged labour markets in the Caribbean to address competitiveness and ease of doing business in a bid to push back against saturation from China.
Man in hospital after being shot while playing dominoes
A 33-year-old man is detained in hospital following a shooting incident in the Eight Mile Rock area, police reported. The victim was among a group of men playing dominoes around 10.30pm on Thursday in the Pinedale area when two masked armed men opened fire on them.
Minnis rallies in readers' poll to be named best person to lead FNM
THE latest tribune242.com poll saw a big swing in the final hours of it being online.
BISX chief in $15m Bargain City deal
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange’s (BISX) chief executive is a principal in a $15 million deal to acquire the well-known Bargain City Shopping Plaza on Carmichael Road.
$141m Ocean Club purchaser targets convention centre
The One & Only Ocean Club’s new owner has set its sights on developing a convention centre, after closing the Paradise Island property’s purchase for $140.5 million.
Heads of Agreement 'like an AIDS virus'
The lead attorney for opponents of Bimini’s cruise ship terminal yesterday likened Heads of Agreement deals with major developers to “an AIDS virus in the body politic” of the Bahamas.
Gaming VAT: Casinos 'vehemently opposed'
MAJOR casino operators are “vehemently opposed” to suggestions that Value-Added Tax (VAT) should be levied on players via the gross sum bet, fearing this could make them “less competitive” than North American rivals.
Wilson: Income tax the 'most equitable'
A leading businessman believes there “is no question” that income tax is the most equitable fiscal reform option, but the Bahamas has run out of time to implement it.
Defenders by name, title defenders by nature
WHILE it was a reunion for American Ryan Stafford as he helped the Scotiabank Defenders successfully defend their title at the “Defend Ya Spike” Volleyball Tournament, it was payback for the International Jammers as they regained their female crown from the Auto Mall Bommers.
'Disastrous effect' fear if general insurance VAT-able
Placing general insurance into the ‘VAT-able’ category will have a “disastrous effect” on the Bahamian economy, a leading industry executive arguing that the New Zealand tax consultants were “mixing up apples and oranges”.
Cardboard recycling a weekly waste saver
Bahamas Waste says it is saving 180 cubic yards of landfill space per week via the 20 tonnes of cardboard waste it is recycling.
Financial Secretary 'placed oil on fire'
The Financial Secretary’s decision to reveal that the Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate is likely to rise soon has been questioned by a well-known businessman, who likened it to “sprinkling oil on a fire”.
Pinder wins head-to-head against Bain
IT was a weekend for the Bahamian quarter-milers as they competed in a series of events.
Promotion hopes stalled by Puerto Rico defeat
THE Bahamas will have to wait another year to try to get promoted out of zone III of the American Davis Cup tie.
Tiathletes rise to meet tough task
SATURDAY morning’s Pineappleman Sprint Triathlon in Gregory Town, Eleuthera was so much fun even a manatee made an appearance.
Monday, June 9
Show others respect
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Bahamas Waste offers cardboard recycling services
BAHAMAS Waste has become the first company to offer cardboard recycling services in the country. Cardboard is the one of the biggest waste products worldwide and by recycling it Bahamas Waste is helping the make the nation greener.
Regatta ends in controversy
THE 47th Long Island Regatta turned out to be one of the best ever in Salt Pond, but it was sad that it ended up on a controversial note in the last race on the final day of competition on Saturday evening.
Interactive 'Food for Thought' forum reveals hunger facts and debunks myths
THE charge of the non-profit organisation Hands For Hunger can be summed up with a quote by Bahamian performer Ordain Moss: “Let’s take away their pain and hold on to a hand, let’s put our love to work.”
Better skin - see a therapist
Why do you need a professional skin therapist? For the same reason doctor and dentist check-ups are necessary: for better health!
Cancer Society Ball - A Success the 13th Time Around
MEMBERS of the Cancer Society of the Bahamas said they were extremely pleased with the turnout for their 13th annual ball and the amount of proceeds raised on the night.
Fight to reduce number of brain injuries in the Bahamas
By JEFFARAH GIBSON
Best exercises for female weight loss and toning
Diet and exercise go hand-in-hand, but diets are often associated with women while exercise regimens tend to be geared toward men. But exercise is just as important for women as it is for men, which is why women must find the right balance between diet and exercise to achieve their weight-loss goals.
Women can lead us along a different road
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Sports in brief
TENNIS
POLICE OFFICER SHOT, SUSPECT IN CUSTODY
A 19-year-old man is custody following a shooting incident that left a police officer detained in hospital on Sunday.
Thursday, June 5
FNM name Michael Pintard as new senator
MICHAEL Pintard has officially been announced as the new Free National Movement (FNM) senator.
Woman in custody after husband stabbed
A 36-year-old woman is in police custody after she allegedly stabbed her husband in the back during a fight Wednesday evening.
D.N.A. to join march for freedom of information
THE Democratic National Alliance (DNA) will join activists, environmentalists and members of the trade union movement among others in a march and demonstration in Rawson Square on June 11 to agitate for the prompt implementation of a Freedom of Information Act.
Concerns raised over Bimini permit validity
A LAWYER for the Bimini Blue Coalition raised concerns in the Court of Appeal yesterday over the validity of a permit issued to Resorts World Bimini, pointing to alleged contradictory statements made by officials of the Department of Physical Planning at the Ministry of Environment and Housing.
Rolle soothes fears over Bimini dredging damage
KHAALIS Rolle, Minister of State for Investments, yesterday sought to allay fears that dredging activities by a private developer in North Bimini will harm the environment.
M.P.: Citizens suffocated by crime
CENTRAL Grand Bahama MP Neko Grant yesterday urged the government to put more effort into the fight against crime as citizens are being “suffocated” by the crime.
Grant demands salary breakdown in budget ‘book of confusion’
FORMER Minister of Works Neko Grant has called for a detailed salary breakdown of all officers within the ministry as he said it is very unclear to him and citizens of the country how much these men and women are being paid.
Cash silent on reports of wife being fired by bank
ANNETTE Cash, wife of FNM Chairman Darron Cash, was reportedly fired from Bank of the Bahamas, The Tribune understands.
Lawyers to act in N.S.A. spy row
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell raised concerns before the Organisation of American States yesterday over reports that the NSA has been recording virtually every cell phone conversation in The Bahamas, emphasising that the allegations cannot go unanswered.
Mother forced out at Potter's Cay to sue govt for $200,000
A MOTHER of two has threatened to sue the government for over $200,000 in damages she claims is owed to her after she was forced to vacate a stall at Potters Cay Dock.
Man cleared of robbery
A MAN, accused of robbing another man of his cellphone at gunpoint, was unanimously acquitted yesterday by a Supreme Court jury of the three charges he faced.
Senate shortlist down to Sands and Pintard
THE Free National Movement has narrowed down its list of Senate hopefuls to Dr Duane Sands and Michael Pintard, The Tribune understands.
Davis Cup stars power past Panama
THE day off worked out perfectly for the Bahamas team at the American Zone III Davis Cup Tie at the Palmas Athletic Club in Humaca, Puerto Rico.
Honouring the memory of pioneer pilot
A LOCAL doctor will pilot a single engine plane into New Jersey this weekend to present the Bahamian flag to members of the Albert E Forsyth Chapter of the Black Pilots of America.
Predators earn win as playoffs draw near
THE Bahamas Flag Football League is two weeks away from their playoffs and teams are scrambling to secure a good playoff spot. On Sunday past, the featured game in the men’s division was between the Finlandia Predators and A Sure Win Team Elite as the winner of this game would move into 2nd place overall.
Miami heroes and the elusive title
THE ‘Marks Brothers’ were considered the Miami Dolphins’ best wide receiver tandem to play with Hall of Fame quarter-back Dan Marino.
Grand Bahamas local govt electoral race underway
THE Local government electoral race is in full swing in Grand Bahama as 96 persons throughout the island vie for available seats in three districts. Elections are set for June 23.
Disability legislation defended
BAHAMAS National Council for Disability president Townsend Roberts yesterday defended proposed disability legislation against criticism that it did not address the needs of adults with disabilities.
Two charged in connection with marijuana field discovery
TWO men were charged in a New Providence Court in connection with the discovery of a marijuana field in Grand Bahama.
Going out of the box to land a catch
BAHAMAS Sport Fishing Network expert Chang Chin led a Memorial Day weekend charter to the northern Exumas where up to 50 boats were in the pocket at Ship Channel. Needless to say, fish were hard to find there - but down by Highbourne was a different story.
Former BIS executive director dies
EDWARD Ellis, the former executive director of Bahamas Information Services (BIS), has died.
Ricara shines in college awards
THE prospect of receiving an award for being academically exceptional was never at the forefront of Ricara Skippings’ mind as she matriculated from her Bachelor of Business Administration (Accounting) programme at the College of The Bahamas (COB). She says she was simply following the sage advice of her mother.
Regional economist backs V.A.T.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - A regional economist said Value Added Tax (VAT) is “the best alternative to border taxes” for this country adding that The Bahamas must move quickly to create vital alternative sources of funding as customs duties face “significant” cuts in the lead up to WTO ascension.
Workers make a stand against domestic violence
AN exhibition at the Mall at Marathon last week brought the stark reality of domestic violence to the public, featuring dramatic depictions of the bondage and fear that victims face.
Shotgun recovered
OFFICERS from the Southwestern Division, acting on intelligence, uncovered a shotgun in the Blue Hill Road south area, police said.
Another delay in sentencing for men who tried to kill senior policeman
THERE was another delay in the sentencing of Excel Josey and Maurice Armbrister in the case of attempted armed robbery and attempted murder of Police Superintendent Clayton Fernander.
S&P: ‘All possibilities on table’ over rating
Standard & Poor’s (S&P) yesterday said “all possibilities are still on the table” over the Bahamas’ sovereign credit rating, with “execution” of Value-Added Tax (VAT) and other Budget measures key to avoiding a further downgrade.
'Unstoppable momentum' sees Baha Mar locate Mondrian replacement
Baha Mar yesterday said its rapid replacement of the Mondrian brand with SLS Hotels provided evidence of “the unstoppable momentum” behind the $2.6 billion project.
Consultants: Put VAT on gambling
The Bahamas should levy Value-Added Tax (VAT) on all forms of gaming, with consultants urging it to follow New Zealand’s lead by taxing players through the gross sum bet.
$627m in FDI for 2014 year-to-date
THE Government has approved $627 million worth of foreign direct investment (FDI) so far this year, a Cabinet minister said yesterday, adding that this nation receives $3 in return for every dollar offered in investment incentives and subsidies.
Court rejects SEC re-plead against Bahamian broker
A US judge has rejected the Securities & Exchange Commission’s (SEC) bid to re-plead ‘fraud’ allegations against a Bahamian broker/dealer, branding its claims as “unavailing” and failing to prove there was any cover-up of an alleged $11 million ‘pump and dump ‘scheme.
Credit union enjoys 'record breaking' 14% member growth
A well-known credit union yesterday said it had enjoyed a “pretty good year” in 2013, with “record breaking” 14 per cent growth in its membership coupled with a just under 8 per cent increase in total assets.
National Forestry estate plan is 'unprecedented'
The creation of a national forestry estate would mark a “significant and “unprecedented” move for the Bahamias in the management and protection of its natural resources, a top official said yesterday.
VAT consultants call for 'doubtful debt allowance'
The Bahamas should include a ‘doubtful debts allowance’ in its Value-Added Tax (VAT) legislation, the two Zealand consultants suggesting that this “seems necessary” to alleviate “significant cash flow difficulties”.
Business owners graduate from capacity building
Some 35 business owners attended a three-day training initiative on Grand Bahama to boost the trade capacity of small companies.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Shoot on instinct, not technicalities
Aren’t you a little tired of being perfect all the time? Does art always have to be so pretty and seamless? What if you tried posing for a shot in the rain?
Burrows praises Mackey for fitness training
MOST athletes would probably have looked outside of the Bahamas to help them with their physical fitness, but professional basketball player Jaraun ‘Keno’ Burrows said he found the right personal trainer here at home in former basketball player Jimmy Mackey.
Wednesday, June 4
Boat not moved for months
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Clubs and Societies 06/05/2014
Cycling Club Bahamas. -
Lessons of the World Relays
EDITOR, The Tribune
Shop early for Communion needs
Warm weather and blooming flowers are telltale signs that spring has arrived. Another such sign that spring is upon us is a church brimming with children decked out in their white Communion and Confirmation finery. Once Communion and Confirmation dates have been announced, the rush is on for families to get all of the necessary supplies to celebrate such a momentous event.
CDC Power to Make Difference mid-day celebration
UNDER the theme ‘Power to Make a Difference’, Senior Pastor James Newry and his wife, Queenie Newry, along with the family of Calvary Deliverance Church will commemorate the advent of God upon the servants of Christ during a special mid-day session slated for Whit Monday at 12.30pm at the sanctuary on East Street South.
Stand up and deliver
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Filled with the Holy Spirit
By Rev Angela C Bosfield Palacious
United to march
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Stay active to fight off depression and worry
By Father Sebastian Campbell
Understanding the dreams you dream - generational and ancestral curses
By Kevin L A Ewing
Leading bay bad example
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Briefly
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Irate returns with 'Rockstar Riddim'
FOR well-known Bahamian soul musician Irate the development of his newest compilation project started with just a simple rock guitar riff.
Talent blooms at COB graduates' art show
GETTING into the practice of working towards and putting on their own shows, art graduates from the College of the Bahamas explored a blossoming theme in a new exhibition at the Central Bank of the Bahamas.
Ya hear?
• Ya hear R&B singer Chris Brown released from prison? According to reports, the “Loyal” singer was released from a Los Angeles County jail on Monday.
Court to permit video evidence from witnesses
THE Court of Appeal yesterday upheld the anonymity order allowing for the protection of the identity of witnesses expected to testify against two brothers set to stand trial for murder.
Gray: I warned Minnis over deputy challenge
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party MP V Alfred Gray said he warned opposition leader Dr Hubert Minnis a long time ago that he had colleagues within his party coming after his post as leader.
Mitchell: Cash playing politics over raid to stay in the limelight
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday accused Free National Movement Chairman Darron Cash of using the recent police search of his home and seizure of items as a political tactic to keep himself in the limelight.
Minister fears water theme park firm is preying on poor people
A DAY after a purported developer defended his business against scam claims, Investments Minister Khaalis Rolle said he is concerned the business might be “preying on poor people.”
Nation has most loans in region written off
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - Delinquent mortgages in The Bahamas represented a “lion’s share” of the non-performing loans written off by CIBC FirstCaribbean this year, the bank’s CEO Rik Parkhil said yesterday.
Bimini dredging row 'will put off investors'
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The ongoing legal dispute relating to the validity of dredging permits obtained by a private developer in North Bimini will affect potential investors, Trinidad and Tobago Trade Minister Vasant Bharath said yesterday.
Second man arrested over teenager's killing
POLICE have moved quickly to arrest two men in connection with Sunday’s stabbing death of 17-year-old Enrico Major. Enrico, the son of convicted drug traffickers Dwight and Keva Major, was murdered as he walked on Baillou Hill Road South with a friend.
One jailed, one awaits trial over $3.2M drugs discovery
A JAMAICAN man spent his first night of a six-year sentence behind bars after admitting to growing for sale more than 30,000 marijuana plants, valued at $3.2 million.
Chairman says leadership bids not disturbing harmony
FNM Chairman Darron Cash said yesterday that expected leadership challenges against Dr Hubert Minnis have not affected harmony within the party.
'My son has broken through barrier'
MARGARET ‘Muggy’ Albury, a former women’s national volleyball player, never had the opportunity to take her game to the next level, playing on the professional circuit. But she’s extremely proud that her son, Byron Ferguson has broken the barrier and is now making his presence felt.
PM backs brain injury support
BAHAMIANS suffering from traumatic brain injuries will soon have access to local rehabilitation services after a pledge of crown land from the Prime Minister.
Renowned organist and mezzo-soprano to perform in Nassau concert to benefit new music school
INTERNATIONALLY renowned organist Nigel Potts and his wife, mezzo-soprano Sarah Rose Taylor, are scheduled to perform in a benefit concert at Christ Church Cathedral, Nassau, tomorrow night.
242 artists get a boost on "Bubble Style Riddim" compilation
BAHAMIAN entertainer Shavon “Csavi” Mitchell has teamed up with more than 20 local artists on a new musical project that is already making waves.
Artist takes a look at Nassau's history
WITH her upcoming exhibit “Nassau Facades”, artist Nastassia Pratt wants to use her talents to educate Nassauvians about their history and heritage.
The karate kid
NORMALLY when they’re successful, a parent - particularly a father - prefer to see his son carry on his legacy. Not the case with powerlifter Kevin ‘One Ton’ Woodside and Nathaniel Woodside.
Sports in brief
AFTER losing their opening match at the American Zone III Davis Cup tie in Puerto Rico on Monday, the Bahamas’ four-member team had the day off on Tuesday at the Palmes Athletic Club in Humacao.
Overseas rivals to challenge in Bahamas
SEVEN men and seven women teams, coming from the Bahamas, Jamaica, US Virgin Islands, the United States of America and Canada, will be participating in the fourth annual “Defend Ya Spike” volleyball tournament over the Labour Day weekend at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium.
Sandals donates supplies to DW Davis Junior High
SANDALS Royal Bahamian helped to lighten the financial load on parents and administrators of DW Davis Junior High for the third consecutive year, with its donation of food supplies and kitchen utensils for the practical portion of the school’s Bahamas Junior Certificate Home Economics exam.
FNM Chief defends reporting of tax plans
FNM Chairman Darron Cash defended the media’s reporting of the government’s tax reform plans yesterday and criticised Prime Minister Perry Christie for what he called his failure to conclusively explain the government’s tax reform plans.
June 23 set as date for local government elections
NOMINATIONS for local government elections took place throughout the Family Islands yesterday, with elections set to take place on June 23.
PLP Chairman praises Budget
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party (PLP) Chairman Bradley Roberts praised the government’s 2014/2015 budget and said the Christie administration’s fiscal plan “charts a course for a brighter future through fiscal reform, economic growth and jobs creation.”
US Coast Guard cutter spends week in Freeport
THE US Coast Guard cutter Cormorant, an 87-foot coastal patrol boat, has spent a week in Freeport, Grand Bahama, as part of an expert international exchange in maritime law enforcement between the United States and The Bahamas.
Hurricane season forecast as near of below normal
THE National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is satisfied that The Bahamas is prepared for the threat of hurricanes this season, which the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Centre is forecasting as near-normal or below-normal.
Bahamas dance school gets a taste of Cuba
THE National Dance School of the Bahamas recently made a trip to Havana, Cuba to participate in a dance and drum workshop at the Cuban National School of Dance.
Cocktails for a good cause
BLAIRWOOD Academy students kept guests entertained through words and music at the school’s “Cocktails by the Sea” event on Saturday at the Royal Nassau Sailing Club to raise funds towards curing literacy.
'Viable' cultural exchange opportunities for Bahamas abroad
THE unique culture of the Bahamas can be successfully marketed abroad, especially within the United States. This, according to Randy Rolle, Bahamas Consul General to Atlanta and surrounding areas.
It's 'Mime Tyme' for kids' summer camp
GIVING children an appreciation for the fine arts while simultaneously teaching how to be creative themselves is the goal of the upcoming Mime Tyme Summer camp.
Consultant speaks out against back-door deals
PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD - Unsolicited proposals represent a “scourge on transparency” for governments, according to a regional consultant speaking on Caribbean public private partnership yesterday.
Bahamas near bottom at 40% 'tax capacity'
The Bahamas is currently operating at just 40 per cent of its tax capacity, the Government’s US consultants have warned, ranking this nation near-bottom of 98 countries.
Future 'zero rate' urged for business financial services
The Government has been told to consider ‘zero rating’ financial services supplied to Bahamian businesses once a Value-Added Tax (VAT) regime has been in place for several years.
Fiscal rule urged to 'maintain credibility'
The Government’s US consultants called for the Bahamas to implement a ‘fiscal rule’ to “maintain credibility” with bondholders and the international capital markets, given the switch to a lower revenue-yielding Value-Added Tax (VAT).
BEST CALLED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL BIMINI BOND
The Government’s environmental adviser recommended that Resorts World Bimini post a performance bond to cover any beach enhancement costs resulting from its cruise ship terminal/jetty as far back as summer 2013, documents lodged with the Supreme Court reveal.
VAT rate rise 'criminal' if no compliance
A former Bahamas Chamber of Commerce president yesterday it was “criminal” for the Government to already be talking about increasing the 7.5 per cent Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate prior to getting the existing tax system’s compliance levels to 80 per cent.
'Struck by abuse' of 15% VAT's exemptions
The New Zealand tax consultants were “struck by the potential for abuse” created by the “substantial list of exemptions” under the Government’s initial 15 per cent Value-Added Tax (VAT) model.
Eleuthera in call for 'duty level playing field'
The Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce’s president said yesterday he was “somewhat disappointed” the island had not been included under the Family Island Development Act extension, arguing South Eleuthera, epsecially, was “just as challenged” as other locations benefiting from the duty exemptions.
VAT 'damage done' to yacht charters
THE “damage has already been done” to the yacht charter business for 2015, with uncertainty surrounding Value-Added tax (VAT) prompted some clients to go elsewhere, the Marina Operators of the Bahamas (MOB) chief said yesterday.
The 'pay-off' from pre-event planning
I just threw an awards banquet that was very successful in terms of what I needed it to do.
Tuesday, June 3
Labour Day march
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Another kind of swift justice
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Doctors makes 'major investment' in therapy
Doctors Hospital Health System (DHHS) has acquired the latest monoplace system for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), its president describing it as “a significant investment in the future” of both the company and Bahamian patients.
Great way to end season for special Olympians
SPECIAL Olympics Bahamas recently held its local end of season bocce tournament and organisers of the event deemed it a smashing success.
The effects of government spending
EDITOR, The Tribune.
A gift to help regatta
THE Cat Island Regatta is an established fixture on the Bahamian summer calendar and this year’s event in August will offer a busy programme and upgraded facilities.
Briefly
Friday night’s action in the New Providence Volleyball Association featured The Scotia Bank Defenders topped the Crusaders in straight sets.
Trust the NIA
IF our NIA does not yet have a motto, perhaps they might consider “Trust Me”.
Minnis has to go
In his most recent contribution to national debate, FNM leader Hubert Minnis has managed to revive the most tiresome and illogical idea that ever raised its head in this country: limiting the tenure of a Prime Minister to two terms in office.
Bimini is alive thanks to resort
I was born a Biminite and have always held Bimini very dear to my heart. I moved away from Bimini as a teenager to seek a high school and college education – like many at that time – and to find something different from fishing, conching or salvaging; this led to me being away for some 38 years off and on.
Pension plans reviewed amid projection concerns
THE Christie administration is reviewing public sector pension plans ahead of projections that have determined drastic payout increases in the years to come, according to State Finance Minister Michael Halkitis.
‘Impossible’ to reduce funding on subventions
STATE Finance Minister Michael Halkitis insisted yesterday that it was impossible to cut back on nearly $288m in subventions the government expects to award various organisations and public corporations amid calls to curb public spending.
Spate of drugs finds continues
POLICE confiscated $105,000 worth of marijuana from a teenage boy in Eleuthera a day after they discovered $3.2 million worth of marijuana plants growing in a plot in Grand Bahama.
Family plan for funeral rather than graduation
TERECITA MAJOR said she had looked forward to seeing her grandson graduate from high school in a few days. However, instead of graduation plans, the family is making funeral arrangements.
Halkitis hits out at critics of Budget
MICHAEL Halkitis, State Finance Minister, yesterday defended the Christie administration’s 2014/2015 fiscal plans saying detractors have stretched its interpretation to cause “unwarranted fear in the minds of the public”.
Woman charged with killing boy she said was robbing her
A WOMAN is on remand at Her Majesty’s Prison after being arraigned in Magistrates Court yesterday in connection with the country’s 56th murder for 2014.
Eight licences maximum is likely for webshops
THE government will likely award a maximum of eight web shop licences as it moves to regulate the sector, Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe told The Tribune yesterday.
Water park developer denies venture is a scam
THE purported developer of the first Bahamian-owned water theme park, Adventure World Discovering the Waters, yesterday defended his business from claims that it is not legitimate.
FNM deputy may go for leadership
FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner last night said she is considering running for the leadership of her party, adding that she has been inundated with support from people asking her to vie for the FNM’s top position.
Four accused over $200,000 drugs find
FOUR men were arraigned in Magistrates Court yesterday in connection with the recent seizure of more than $200,000 worth of marijuana in Eastern New Providence.
Sentencing delayed for shooting of senior cop
YESTERDAY’s expected sentencing of Excel Josey and Maurice Armbrister, who were convicted of the attempted armed robbery and attempted murder of Police Superintendent Clayton Fernander, did not take place because of a letter from prison authorities to a judge describing the prison conditions the two men had to endure while on remand.
Bahamian sororities join hands to '#bringbackourgirls'
OVER the last few months, the hashtag “Bring Back Our Girls” has been trending worldwide on various social media outlets, including here in the Bahamas.
New book aims to equip young women for life
NOT EVERYONE is fortunate enough to have been nurtured in an environment rich with essential values – honesty, respect, responsibility, generosity, forgiveness.
Bitter or better - What's your flavour?
Who goes to the ice cream parlour and orders a bitter flavoured ice cream cone? Nobody would; it’s an odd thing to do since having an ice cream cone is supposed to be an enjoyable experience.
Officials working to promote Bahamas in New York's Caribbean Week
THE Bahamas is once again looking to make its mark at the annual Caribbean Week in New York as tourism officials are vigorously working to present the country as the premier destination choice of the region.
TRIPADVISOR EXCELLENCE AWARDS FOR TWO GRAND BAHAMA NATIONAL PARKS
TWO Grand Bahama parks and the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve in Eleuthera have been awarded TripAdvisor Excellence awards. The awards, which recognise hospitality excellence worldwide, are given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor.
76 Haitians held in Exumas
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force arrested 76 Haitian migrants on Friday after receiving intelligence from OPBAT.
Karate school keeps on kicking
CHILDREN at an Englerston karate school can continue to practice their martial arts without disturbing the neighbours thanks to a good deed triggered by Police Officer Corporal Don Dorsett. There had been a danger that the noise coming from Smokey’s Karate School in Englerston would force it to close.
Court of Appeal dredging hearing adjourned
A COURT of Appeal hearing on whether an injunction on dredging activities in North Bimini should have been discharged has been adjourned to tomorrow.
Crisis Centre campaign
THE BAHAMAS Crisis Centre is continuing its campaign to bring peace to the community with its monthly walkabout in Englerston west at the weekend.
Concerns over transport system and disabled access
A FRENCH couple back on vacation in New Providence since their first visit two years ago had expected to see an improvement in public transport and improved facilities for pedestrians with a change in government.
Former senior police officer blames lawyers for trial delays
FORMER Assistant Commissioner of the Royal Bahamas Police Force Paul Thompson yesterday blamed lawyers for trials taking so long to begin in the Bahamas.
Funeral services for Madeleine Robertson
FUNERAL services for Mrs Madeleine Robertson, 72, will be held at St Anselm’s Church, Bernard Road, at 9:45 am tomorrow.
Halkitis details revenue moves
STATE Minister for Finance Michael Halkitis yesterday outlined “key revenue measures” contained in the 2014/2015 budget.
Police search for two men
POLICE are requesting the public’s assistance in locating two men for questioning in connection with their investigations into a case of housebreaking and causing harm.
Bahamas culture can be marketed abroad
THE culture of The Bahamas can be successfully marketed abroad, especially within the United States, according to Randy Rolle, the country’s Consul General to Atlanta and surrounding areas.
Celebrity artist earns praise of ex-presidential candidate McCain
JAMAAL Rolle, The Tribune’s cartoonist, has received a ringing endorsement of his portrait work from a former US presidential candidate.
CB Moss joins rally for freedom of information
DECLARING that a Freedom of Information Act will “remove the veil of secrecy which is a part of the culture of Bahamian governments,” the powerful civic organisation Bahamas Against Crime has thrown its full support behind a rally calling for immediate passage of Freedom of Information legislation.
'Set VAT rate in stone for 2 years'
A Tax Coalition co-chair yesterday called for the 7.5 per cent Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate to be “set in stone for two years”, branding a policy of successive revenue-grabbing increases as his “greatest fear”.
Judge lifted Bimini dredge bar despite 'compliance concern'
Despite expressing “concern” over whether Resorts World Bimini was in “full compliance” with the requirements of its dredging permit, a Supreme Court judge ruled that the developers had made a “prima facie” case that the approval was valid.
Natural disaster block to fiscal controls 'absurd'
A Tax Coalition co-chair yesterday slammed as “absurd” a former finance minister’s suggestion that ‘fiscal rules’ or spending caps could not be implemented in the Bahamas because they would impede hurricane relief and other unanticipated emergencies.
Gov't to expand Excise Stamps to alcohol imports
The Government was yesterday warned that plans to extend its Excise Stamp programme to combat alcohol smuggling could be “a lot more complicated” than the initiative underway in the tobacco industry.
Bahamian Brewery backs upcoming regattas
BAHAMIAN Brewery and Beverage continued their support of regattas throughout The Bahamas by making donations last week to the forthcoming Long Island and Grand Bahama regattas.
Bank in card link up with MasterCard
MORE than 25 years after Commonwealth Bank introduced SunCard as the first Bahamian dollar credit card, it yesterday announced it will marry the brand with the strength and loyalty programmes of MasterCard.
Business owners graduate from capacity building
Upon successful completion of the modules, participants received internationally-recognised ProNet certificates. Pictured from L to R is Kevin Jones, advisor, competitiveness and innovation - CEDA; Garnell Frith, owner of Dollar Deals; and Ian Rolle, GBPA president
Bank in 'cautious optimism' for 2014
Commonwealth Bank executives said yesterday they were “cautiously optimistic” regarding the bank’s performance outlook for the remainder of 2014, after reporting a $13 million profit for the three months ended March 31.
VAT rate rise 'likely soon'
A senior government official has confirmed to Tribune Business that the Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate is likely to be increased “in the not too distant future”.
Davis Cup team falters in Cuba tie
IT wasn’t the type of start that the Bahamas men’s national team expected at the Davis Cup Americas Zone III tie on Monday.
Bowlers battle it out for places in Florida contest
THE Bahamas Bowling Federation completed its trials for the selection for the 2014 Lee Evans Tournament of Americas over the weekend at Mario’s Bowling and Entertainment Palace.
Basketball camp to bring smiles for 15th year
COACH Sam Nichols, retired Hall of Fame Head Women’s Basketball Coach at McMurry University, Abilene, Texas, will be coming again this year for his 15th annual Basketball Smiles Basketball Camp. In co-operation with coach Kevin Johnson, the camp will be held at the CI Gibson Gymnasium from June 16-18, 2014.
Boxers back and showing off their medals
THREE of the four Bahamian boxers returned home with medals from the XVI International Jose ‘Cheo’ Aponte Boxing Tournament in Caguas City, Puerto Rico.
The undefeated
DICK Anderson remembered it as clear as day. When you go through a perfect season, how could one forget.
Triathlon back with a splash
SOMEONE once said ‘If at first you don’t succeed; try, try again’. At Saturday’s Pineappleman Sprint Triathlon, in Gregory Town, Eleuthera, competitors can do just that.
Bank bracing for short term VAT default 'spike'
Commonwealth Bank’s president said yesterday it anticipates a short-term spike in delinquencies when Value-Added Tax (VAT) is implemented on January 1, having estimated the previous model would have increased its own annual costs by $4 million.
Broker blasts SEC's 'fraud' re-pleading
A Bahamian broker/dealer has blasted attempts by US regulators to re-plead previously dismissed fraud allegations against, arguing that its “boilerplate claims” would only create “a pointless burden and expense” for all.
Law firm sponsors regional conference
Higgs & Johnson was a luncheon sponsor of the 2014 Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Caribbean conference held in the Bahamas.
Monday, June 2
Is a man's skin really different from a woman's?
BESIDES having facial hair, there are structural differences between a man’s skin and a woman’s.
New foundation to highlight meningitis and childhood illnesses
By JEFFARAH GIBSON
Sports and athletics
By the Bahamas Association of Chiropractic
Two points on VAT
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Can anyone fill the prime minister's shoes?
ALTHOUGH the next general election is some three years away, speculation is rife about who will lead both major political parties into the fight in 2017.
Bimini business model
I don’t care how much money Genting has, the odds of making Resorts World Bimini successful stand about the same chance as making a Super Wal-Mart successful in Mayaguana. The business model just doesn’t work.
Answer to our rate of murders
Please publish this follow-up to my two earlier letters, in which I pointed out the obvious and insidious connection between the levels of violence in the Bahamas today and the ineptitude of a Judiciary that continues to release violent criminals to reoffend while on bail.
Human rights group alerted to Cash case
FREE National Movement Chairman Darron Cash has filed a report against the government with Amnesty International over alleged human rights abuses in the aftermath of a search at his home and seizure of personal items.
Hanging thought to be suicide
POLICE do not suspect that foul play was involved in what they believe might be a suicide based on the discovery of a “badly decomposed body” found hanging from a tree over the weekend.
Still no answers over spy claims
AFTER more than a week with no answers from Americans or “hard facts” over spying claims, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said he plans to raise concerns over allegations at a regional meeting this week.
Stabbed teenager is 60th murder of year
A TEENAGE boy was killed last night after he was accosted by a group of male attackers who stabbed him in the head and back, police said. It was the second murder of the weekend, the eighth in 11 days and took this year’s total to 60.
SMALL WEBSHOPS: ODDS AGAINST US
THE OWNER of a newly formed webshop operation said yesterday that the government’s proposed plans to impose a hefty licensing fee and performance bond on the sector is “unfair” to smaller businesses and in the best interests of the “big number bosses”.
Crime a deterrent to buying in the Bahamas
A PROSPECTIVE second home-owner seeking to buy a home in New Providence is surprised by the murder rate and reports of the high levels of crime in The Bahamas.
Marino among Dolphins stars in Bahamas visit
PRIME Minister Perry Christie admitted that he is not as big a Miami Dolphins or the National Football League as he is with the Los Angeles Lakers and the National Bahamas League.
Mitchell confident that abuse trial will resume
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday expressed confidence in the timely resolution of stalled hearings into allegations of abuse of Cuban detainees.
New faces join The Tribune
THERE are major changes in the editorial team at The Tribune with the arrival of a new Managing Editor, News Editor and a news reporter in recent weeks.
Poster competition to 'Save the Wetlands'
The Sandals Foundation yesterday held a poster competition for primary school students who participated in Experiential Education’s ‘Ride to Save the Wetlands’.
Shipyard apprentices help to build special needs playground
APPRENTICES at Grand Bahama Shipyard (GBS) learned the true meaning of giving back by helping to build the newly-opened special needs playground at the Beacon School in Freeport. The improved playing area includes a track slide set, swing set, merry-go-round, two bocce ball courts and a basketball court. Most of the equipment is wheelchair accessible.
So proud of Prachi
BAHAMAS national Spelling Bee champion Prachi Kondapuram narrowly missed out on a place in the semi-finals of the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington last week.
Student of the year aims to win even more awards
DONOVAN Butler, an 11-year old student of Xavier’s Lower School in New Providence is the 2014 Primary School Student of the Year.
$1m funding increase 'only cos adjustments'
THE increase of just over $1m in the 2014/2015 budget allocation for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration reflect only cost-adjustments, according to Minister Fred Mitchell.
'Mother' Pratt helps hand out free textbooks
SCORES of teachers received free textbooks and related materials last week as private sponsorship facilitated by Urban Renewal (UR) soars.
Gov't spending cut will 'choke economy to death'
A former finance minister has blasted the private sector for continuing to criticise the Government despite largely getting the Value-Added Tax (VAT) regime it wanted, arguing that many did not understand the fiscal “complexities”.
Lead adviser: Gov't to avoid double taxation
A key Ministry of Finance consultant “suspects” the Government has given itself enough breathing room to deal with the private sector’s post-Budget ‘double taxation’ fears, adding: “We don’t have two shots at this.”
Striping group '90% there' on $8.25m PPP
The Bahamas Striping group is “90 per cent there” in talks with the Government over an $8.25 million ‘public-funded partnership’ (PFP) for airport and road maintenance throughout the Bahamas.
Licensing delays cost Doctors Hosp $1.275m
Licensing and permit delays for its medical tourism programme cost Doctors Hospital $1.275 million in its last financial year, helping to propel it to a collective $261,391 net loss.
Bank 'prepays' Culinary Team
The 2014 National Culinary Team will be cashless at the Taste of the Caribbean Competition…..but that’s a good thing.
Bahamas FDI inflows fall by some 29%
Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the Bahamas fell by 29 per cent year-over-year in 2013, a United Nations (UN) body has reported.
Four months to 'convince' Gov't on spending cuts
The Tax Coalition has four months to “convince” the Government that commitments to spending curbs are “essential”, a co-chair adding that expenditure increases across 30 ministries do little to inspire confidence.
Agriculture Institute in business incubator
THE Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) will create a business incubator to help agricultural producers seeking financing or joint venture opportunities.
Project ahead of construction goal
An eastern New Providence real estate development is “slightly ahead of schedule” on construction of its condominiums, with roof trusses in place before the roof due date.
Exumians want to 'own tools' in island's 'transformation'
Exumians want “to be more than employees” in the numerous multi-million dollar investment projects than can “transform” the island’s economy.
World Relays stars back in the running
ONE week after running at home to participate in the IAAF inaugural World Relays, Bahamian team-mates Chris ‘Fireman’ Brown, Michael Mathieu and Adrian Griffith were back on the international circuit, competing in separate meets in the United States, while there were others attempting to qualify for the NCAA Outdoor Championships.
Sea Bees meet is buzzing
WITH the season winding down, the Sea Bees Swim Club provided the local swimmers with another opportunity to qualify for the Bahamas Swimming Federation’s annual Royal Bank of Canada National Swimming Championship.
Strikers dominate in Fish Fry Fist contest
THEY were short of matches, but Tyrone Oliver nor Israel Johnson unleashed a flurry of punches to entertain the crowd on Saturday night at the Champion Amateur Boxing Club’s 19th annual Wellington ‘Sonny Boy’ Rahming Silver Glove Amateur Boxing Tournament.
Keen contest expected at regatta
THE Long Isand Regatta, the second largest in the Bahamas behind the National Family Island Regatta, is to get underway on Wednesday in beautiful Salt Pond.
Sunday, June 1
Three in custody after drugs found
A 44-year-old man, a 36-year-old woman and a 17–year-old male are in custody after police in Eleuthera arrested them over a large quantity of marijuana last night.
HURRICANE SEASON: South New Providence may not be prepared for extensive flooding
THE entire southern corridor of New Providence, including Pinewood Gardens, may not be able to handle extensive flooding this hurricane season if rainfall exceeds the holding capacity of the drainage system.
