Monday, December 31
BHS president: Dog life expectancy claims 'nonsense'
BAHAMAS Humane Society President Kim Aranha said claims by a Canadian news site that dogs in the local shelter have a life expectancy of “only two to three years” are “absolute nonsense”.
Canadian man charged with possession of dangerous drugs
A CANADIAN man was charged with possession of 9.5 pounds of dangerous drugs in a magistrate’s court on Monday.
116 Haitian migrants charged with illegal landing
116 Haitian migrants were charged with illegal landing in a magistrate’s court on Monday.
Reduction on electricity bills 'not due to BPL'
IF you’ve noticed a reduction on your Bahamas Power and Light billing, it’s probably because you used less electricity, BPL Chairman Donovan Moxey told The Tribune Monday, not because the electricity provider did anything differently.
Armed robbery at Dundas Town business
Abaco Police are investigating an armed robbery incident at Dundas Town after a business was robbed by two masked armed men early Monday morning.
12312018 EDITION
Monday, 31st December, 2018.
Junkanoo tickets still available
JUNKANOO tickets are still available for the New Year's Day parade said officials from the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence.
‘Flawed model’ creates more Bahamasair woe
Bahamasair’s “vexing business model” was yesterday blamed for the airline’s latest troubles that resulted in 17 passengers - and virtually all bags - being thrown off a flight to Marsh Harbour.
Royal backdown over crime alert
A major cruise line has agreed to withdraw a crime warning that threatened to “unduly bring fear to passengers coming to Nassau”, a Cabinet minister has revealed.
Filming cops can be a problem
RECORDING on-duty police officers can have violent consequences some residents say, raising questions about whether the Royal Bahamas Police Force will embrace policies that will require widespread use of body cameras.
Visa scam probe remains 'active'
POLICE Commissioner Anthony Ferguson said the Royal Bahamas Police Force is still actively investigating an alleged US visa scam unearthed by the FBI.
Why keep Oban study secret?
THE government’s intention not to release the environmental impact assessment for the proposed Oban Energies oil storage and refinery facility on Grand Bahama until a new Heads of Agreement is signed is “fishy”, according to activist Joseph Darville.
Making history: Cyclist Neely to train in Colombia
FELIX Neely, considered to be one of the future stars of cycling in the Bahamas, has been afforded a rare opportunity to travel to Colombia to train, making history as the first Bahamian to do so in a South American country.
CROWNING GLORY: Miller-Uibo our Female Athlete of the Year
Some things are just not meant to be debated. One of them is Shaunae Miller-Uibo’s crowning glory as the Tribune’s 2018 Female Athlete of the Year.
High Jumper Kyle Alcine decides to stay in Kansas
CLOUD County Community College sophomore Kyle Alcine, one of the rising young high jumpers in the country, has decided to stay in Kansas following his graduation in the spring and will be taking his talent to Kansas State University.
WORLD VIEW: Time that Caricom used the voices of all its members
The English-speaking Caribbean has just emerged from a season manifesting the spirit, intrinsic to Christmas, of ‘peace on earth and goodwill to all’.
INSIGHT: Despite everything, we live in hope of better days
WITH a new year less than 24 hours away, the year 2018 will be behind us. A year filled with political blunders highlighted by the Oban fiasco, the surprise introduction of a 60 percent increase in value added tax, national tragedies as a result of a lack of impetus by successive governments to fix systemic problems, and - on the brighter side – a long-desired reduction in murders in the country.
Japanese grant helps disaster management
THE National Emergency Management Agency has received the remainder of equipment which is part of a $1.8 million Japanese grant aid project to The Bahamas in support of the country’s disaster management programme.
A different take on democracy
It is the Christmas season and my favourite time – new year– is approaching. It is a time of reflection and improvement. Some improve their home by repairs, painting and decorations. Some improve themselves by being generous and making new year resolutions. In this vein I suggest an improvement for the Bahamas’ political system which is a representative democracy.
Marley's lasting legacy to people of The Bahamas
This month of December marks the 39th anniversary of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s International Year of the Child Bob Marley benefit concert at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre. Tuff Gong, as the Jamaican reggae artiste was nicknamed after Gong Guru Maragh, better known as Leonard Percival Howell, was invited by International Year of the Child Commission members the late Beryl Hanna, Rubie Nottage and Telzena Coakley.
RBDF holds 134 Haitians
MORE than 100 Haitian migrants were apprehended by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force yesterday morning.
Bahamas won’t ‘blindly’ rush into joining WTO
The Bahamas is pushing its next WTO talks back by one month, with its chief negotiator pledging that the country will not “blindly” rush into membership of global trade’s rules-setting body.
EDITORIAL: Report Card on this divisive president
New Year’s Eve is rightfully a time for reflection on the year just past and a time to look ahead. We hope that for each Bahamian, and for our many seasonal visitors, this thoughtful pause brings both a smile at the recollection of joys and pleasures from 2018 and a renewed sense of optimism for what may lie ahead in the coming year.
Visitors love Fish Fry
Last week, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines released a letter warning its passengers aboard the Anthem of the Seas about levels of crime in Nassau.
Bahamas ‘closer than ever’ to a sustainable NHI
The Bahamas “is as close as it has ever been to sustainable National Health Insurance (NHI)” with the Cabinet now awaiting the final report on recent stakeholder consultations.
Non-profit sector ‘lucrative’ area for financial services
A well-known QC has backed the Government’s decision to spend more time in getting non-profit regulation right, describing the sector as a “lucrative practice” for the financial services industry.
Marathon expecting to match $2m room effect
MARATHON Bahamas organisers say they are confident that the 2019 event will generate “no less” than the $ 2m in hotel room revenue produced by this year’s event.
Taxi chief’s concerns on unlicensed drivers
THE Bahamas Taxi Cab Union’s (BTU) president says he is concerned over the number of unlicensed operators within the industry.
Sunday, December 30
Arise, Dame Janet
EIGHT Bahamians are among 1,148 people selected to receive Queen Elizabeth’s 2019 New Years Honours - with Janet Bostwick named as a Dame.
Friday, December 28
12282018 EDITION
Friday, 28th December, 2018.
Marijuana field found in Grand Bahama
A MARIJUANA field was discovered in the eastern end of Grand Bahama by Bahamian and US law enforcement officers this week, police officials reported on Friday.
Lloyd: Strike threat did not influence schools reopening date
EDUCATION Minister Jefferey Lloyd yesterday denied reports that a strike threat by the Bahamas Union of Teachers influenced his ministry's decision to reopen public schools on January 7, 2019, five days later than originally planned.
Man charged with Malcolm Road murder
A 29-year-old man was arraigned in the Magistrate’s Court Friday in connection with a murder on December 21.
Canadian man found with $90,000 of heroin at airport
A Canadian man was taken into police custody when $90,000 worth of dangerous drugs were found in his possession at Lynden Pindling International Airport Thursday.
Bahamasair, Ministry fly children to Exuma for one-day trip
BAHAMASAIR and the Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development jointly flew 33 children to Exuma for a one-day getaway.
Ticket sales down for New Year's Junkanoo parade
JUNKANOO Corporation of New Providence officials said Friday ticket sales are down for the New Year's Day parade.
Police aim to reduce murders to less than 90 next year
WITH the country on pace to record fewer than 100 murders in a year for the first time in nearly a decade, National Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday declared his goal for the year ahead: fewer than 90 murders.
Waters: I’m looking forward to a woman prime minister
US Congresswoman Maxine Waters was a well known spectator at the 2018 Junkanoo Boxing Day Parade — a tradition she and her husband have shared for more than a decade.
Govt ‘strained’ by first non-profit bill
The Government would have placed increased “financial strain” upon itself had it gone through with the initial Non-Profit Organisations Bill version, sector representatives warned.
School’s out - for three more days
PUBLIC schools across the country will reconvene January 7, five days later than originally planned, the Ministry of Education has announced.
Glenys renews attack on Oban
ENGLERSTON MP Glenys Hanna Martin has questioned whether the government is truly committed to transparency as it prepares for new negotiations with Oban Energies next month with a new environmental impact assessment not yet made public.
‘Facts don’t merit crime alerts’
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames rejected Royal Caribbean’s warning to its passengers calling Arawak Cay’s Fish Fry a concerning crime area, insisting yesterday there is no statistical evidence to support the assertion.
Church and State
BAHAMAS Christian Council (BCC) President Delton Fernander’s apprehension regarding the Free National Movement (FNM) administration’s Non-profit Organisations Bill may be legitimate.
Marijuana
The issue of legalisation of ganja has become a popular issue in the global discourse on drugs since the pioneering role of countries such as Uruguay and Canada led the way regarding the legalisation of ganja for medicinal and recreational purposes.
EDITORIAL: A time to listen and and live up to expectations
IN this column last week, we took pleasure in wishing everybody a Merry Christmas and emphasised the importance of peace and goodwill in the festive season as families and friends gathered together to celebrate.
Embassy operating through shutdown
THE US Embassy in Nassau will provide scheduled passport and visa services despite the partial shutdown of its government, officials said yesterday.
Major Upgrade to Water Supply for North Eleuthera
RELIEF is on the way for the water woes of approximately 5,000 residents of North Eleuthera. A major upgrade is presently underway to the water supply in that district that will bring relief to complaints of no water, salt water, low pressure and brown odorous water.
Barge breaks from moorings
A LARGE barge broke its moorings in Montagu harbour yesterday and was adrift for a number of hours before being captured and secured.
$500,000 upgrade for ZNS in Grand Bahama
ZNS’ Northern Service in Grand Bahama will undergo a complete digitalisation of its television facilities to the tune of some $500,000, it was announced yesterday.
$4.8m seawall close to completion at Smith’s Point
THE $4.8m seawall and road repaving project at Smith’s Point in Grand Bahama is just about finished and residents are eager for the community to be reopened to the public.
Golden Gates residents: Why are businesses being allowed?
SOME Golden Gates residents are protesting alleged zoning law violations they claim have allowed street vendors and commercial businesses to operate in the single-family residential area.
Biometrics change for Canada travel
THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced changes to Canada’s biometrics programme, which will now require Bahamians applying for various permits or residencies to provide biometrics beginning December 31.
Activists agree with Canada warning to LGBTQI community
TWO LGBTQI activists yesterday agreed with Canadian government’s crime advisory warning Canadians to consider the risks of travelling to The Bahamas because homosexuality is not widely accepted.
Killer jailed for 40 years has court appeal rejected
A MAN sentenced to 40 years in prison for killing another man in a row over money has had his attempt at contesting his sentence dismissed by the Court of Appeal.
Golden Oldies Touch Rugby Sevens Day on February 2
ONE of the oldest rugby clubs in the Bahamas is inviting all former players to come out and participate in the Baillou Rugby Club’s Golden Oldies Touch Rugby Sevens Day.
BAAA Odd Distance Track and Field Meet January 5
THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations is all set to kick off its 2019 season on Saturday, January 5 with the Odd Distance Track and Field Meet at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
Jaguars, Cobras off to fast start
LAST year’s runners-up St George’s Jaguars and the defending GSSSA champions CC Sweeting Cobras are off to a fast start in the 2019 Providence Holiday Classic High School Basketball Tournament.
Golf federation mourning the death of Shaw
THE Bahamas Golf Federation is mourning the loss of yet another one of its long time executive members. Yvonne Shaw, who would have celebrated her 80th birthday on Christmas Day, passed away on Sunday December 23 at the Princess Margaret Hospital after an extended illness.
2018: A year of career-defining moments for our shining stars
It was a year that displayed the diversity of Bahamian sports across many disciplines and career-defining moments for many of the country’s superstars and stars on the rise.
MP ‘far short’ on proof to halt eviction
Fox Hill’s MP “fell far short” of the evidence needed to persuade the Court of Appeal to halt her eviction from the Centreville property that housed the Crab House and Seafood Emporium.
Govt urged: ‘Hear cry of domestic economy’
The Government has been urged to “swiftly address the cries of our domestic economy” and its inefficient processes otherwise the financial services industry’s adjustment will be undermined.
AG ‘unaware’ of alternative non-profit bill
The attorney general has revealed he was only made aware of alternative legislation to regulate Bahamian non-profits days before the current bill was due to be passed by Parliament.
Arawak Cay hits back at crime notice
ARAWAK Cay vendors yesterday hit back at a “double whammy” of crime warnings by accusing a major cruise line of “getting it all mixed up” and hurting their businesses.
IAN FERGUSON: Business strategies to last a generation
Each New Year brings with it a time of reflection for individuals and businesses alike. As 2018 is on its way out, small and medium-sized businesses must take the opportunity to examine the past year, with all its peaks and valleys, and plan for the upcoming 2019 with those lessons in mind.
Bank liquidity ‘cheaper but equal’ to global rule
The Central Bank believes its proposed bank liquidity standards “will be much simpler and cheaper” to implement than global rules but still have the same or “super-equivalent” effect.
BISX lists ten more funds
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) has listed a further ten investment funds, including some with sub-funds, after they fulfilled all its regulatory requirements.
Baha Mar eyes ‘maximum’ occupancies for New Year
Baha Mar yesterday said it was targeting “maximum New Year’s capacity” for its three new resort properties after they enjoyed “a much better Christmas” this year following their completion.
Thursday, December 27
12272018 EDITION
Thursday, 27th December, 2018.
Santa for a day: Dr Sands delivers for Children's Ward patients
MINISTER of Health Dr Duane Sands played Santa on Christmas morning with a delivery of gifts to patients at the Children’s Ward of the Princess Margaret Hospital
Bahamasair delays due to 'weather related challenges'
DESPITE announcing earlier this week that its schedule was back to normal after a weekend of chaos and delays during the peak travel period, Bahamasair said on Thursday "weather related challenges" at Lynden Pindling International Airport left some flights grounded and delayed.
Cruise line: Fish Fry ‘crime concern’ area
A major cruise line yesterday “blindsided” a Cabinet minister by warning its passengers that the Arawak Cay Fish Fry was a “particular area of concern” for crime.
NCAA Div 1: Bahamians set new career highs
SEVERAL Bahamian players set new career high scoring marks in NCAA Division I basketball over the course of the holiday season.
Another banner year for sports in The Bahamas
IT HAS been another banner year for sports in the country and one of those that stood out in the foreground were the performances of our various teams that competed both locally and on the international scene.
Hield, Ayton on fire
Both Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton have been playing their best basketball since the calendar shifted to the month of December and the NBA opened voting for its 2019 All-Star Game.
Sensei Julian Rolle elected vice-president of Pan American United Karate Organisation
SENSEI Julian Rolle was elected vice president of the Pan American United Karate Organisation (PUKO) on December 12.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Oh, for a little respect while out shopping
IN every life, there comes a time when reality hits with a thud, like realising that you had the whole year to get ready for Christmas and suddenly it is here. And once again, though you promised last year and the year before that and probably the year before that it would never happen again, you blew the 8720 hours since the last time and you have 40 hours left to go before the big day.
Davis: No reason to block web shop political donations
OPPOSITION Leader Philip “Brave” Davis does not expect the Minnis administration to push a bill that would prohibit web shops and their bosses from giving money to political parties.
Turnquest: WTO worries overblown
DEPUTY Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest has said that concerns over World Trade Organisation ascension are being “exaggerated,” further asserting that the government would work to “protect” the interests of local businesses.
'Mr PM, how can you wish me Merry Christmas when you can't find my son?'
THE disappearance of 40-year-old Marvin Pratt has darkened the Christmas holiday for his mother, who continues to appeal for authorities to bring her son home.
HAPPY FAMILY: One Family wins Junkanoo Boxing Day parade
ONE Family sashayed its way to victory as the group was declared the unofficial winner of the 2018 Junkanoo Boxing Day parade last night. The group wowed the judges and crowd with its theme “Nursery Rhymes: The Ones We’ll Always Remember,” scoring a total of 87.55 points.
Saintil to be deported next year
HAITIAN-Bahamian Edward Israel Saintil, who was targeted in an explosive FBI undercover operation into US visa fraud in the Bahamas, will be deported to this country following his sentencing early next year.
Impact of Oban deal being kept secret
THE environmental impact assessment for the controversial Oban Energies project will not likely be made public until a new heads of agreement is inked, Labour Minister Dion Foulkes said yesterday.
15th Providence Basketball Club tourney tips off today
A STAPLE of the holiday season basketball schedule for senior boys’ programmes, the Providence Basketball Club is again providing an opportunity for teams to showcase their skills and get an early assessment of their clubs headed into the new year.
Judge clears way for $2.8bn revival
The Supreme Court has cleared the way for the former Ginn project’s $2.8bn revival, and creation of up to 1,400 full-time Bahamian jobs, by declaring Old Bahama Bay’s lease “null and void”.
Back on schedule: Bahamasair chief says company on right track
AFTER a weekend of chaos, cancellations and lengthy delays, operations at Bahamasair are back on schedule, the airline’s managing director Tracy Cooper has said.
Two injured in shooting incidents
TWO men are in hospital after they were injured in separate shooting incidents.
Going into a year of hope
If no one else in The Bahamas believes that I am a prophet, I do. Please, my beloved fellow Bahamians, do not take this assertion as an attempt to big up myself or a vain one to convince any reader to accept whatever I might say or prognosticate without a dose of Morton Salt. Nor, I declare and proclaim is that to suggest any degree of infallibility.
Has a permit been issued for the work at Baha Mar?
Glad someone saw this development…seemingly quietly the expansion of the original dock has now a breakwater and marina docks.
$42m damages warning to hotel condo owners
Old Bahama Bay’s condo owners could be exposed to a $42m-plus damages claim for alleged “tortuous interference” with the resort’s sale as part of the former Ginn project’s $2.8bn revival.
Port bidder pledges 1,050 full-time jobs
A Nassau cruise port bidder yesterday pledged it will create 1,050 full-time jobs through Bahamian business spin-offs and a proposal that is 60 percent local owned.
Cruise port winner chosen in early ‘19
The Government will likely select a preferred bidder for Nassau’s cruise port within the first two months of 2019, a Cabinet minister has confirmed, with tomorrow’s deadline proving unrealistic.
Retailers: Christmas sales matched 2017
BUSINESS this Christmas was “steady” and comparable to last year’s holiday shopping period, several local retailers have confirmed.
Wednesday, December 26
Skeletal remains found off highway
POLICE are investigating after skeletal remains were found on Tuesday.
One Family triumphs in Boxing Day Junkanoo
One Family marched to victory in the 2018 Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade with a theme based on nursery rhymes.
Biometrics change for Canada travel
THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced changes to Canada’s biometrics programme, which will now require Bahamians applying for various permits or residencies to provide biometrics beginning December 31.
Police investigate suspected drowning
POLICE are investigating an alleged drowning that occurred at Potter's Cay Dock on Sunday.
Monday, December 24
12242018 EDITION
Monday, December 24, 2018
BLTA's Giorgio Baldacci National Open Tournament was a success
DESPITE the controversy that dampened the integrity of the Giorgio Baldacci National Open Tournament, Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association president Darnette Weir was pleased that they got it completed.
NPBA: Giants close out the regular season undefeated
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants closed out the New Providence Basketball Association regular season play for the year as the only undefeated team remaining in the team standings.
Sydney Clarke takes home ladies' title
FROM completing the junior ranks as the top player in the country to emerging as the Giorgio Baldacci National open champion, Sydney Clarke could ask for no better way to end 2018.
Armbrister emerges victorious
Donte Armbrister will cherish his first appearance in the main draw of the Giorgio Baldacci National Open Tennis Tournament. Despite the controversy surrounding his seeding, he was unfazed as he emerged with his first senior title.
Church: We've made our case over non-profits bill
CHURCH leaders will “wait to see” if the Government changes the Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) Bill to address their concerns, adding: “We’ve made our case.”
IMF helps Bahamas boost economic data transparency
The Bahamas has enhanced the provision of key national economic and financial data by consolidating it into one website location in accordance with the IMF’s advice.
'Heads in beds' to decide Bahamas Bowl's future
The Bahamas Bowl’s future will be determined by its promotional value and the number of “heads in beds” it generates, a Cabinet minister has confirmed.
Realtors eye 2019 growth despite sales goal misses
Bahamian realtors are optimistic that this year’s growth momentum will translate into an even better 2019 despite regulatory headwinds and missed sales targets for some.
Govt takes street to 20% energy use cut
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) will start installing over 30,000 energy-efficient street lights during the 2019 first quarter in a bid to save the Government $3m per year.
NAD's $73m raise 'a big confidence boost'
The “fully subscribed” Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) offering has raised the bar on what the Bahamian capital markets can generate, an investment banker believes.
Hotels shrug off Baha Mar effect in 35% rate rise
Nassau/Paradise Island hotels have seemingly shrugged off the arrival of Baha Mar’s extra 2,000 rooms as average daily rates (ADRs) rose by 35 percent for the year to October 2018.
'Push' for URCA to take over GB Power regulation
A public advocacy group is targeting 1,000 letters of support as it intensifies its campaign to end Grand Bahama Power Company’s (GBPC) long-standing energy monopoly.
Unwise to suggest Nassau is getting safer
There are times Ministers and senior officials when they will be well advised not to comment as usually what they say comes to bite them hard. Between the PM’s statement copied by the Asst Commissioner of Police and the Minister that it was safer in Nassau can only be described as stupid.
The wrong moral course
The LGBT community in The Bahamas is active and robust. Its leading spokesperson, Erin Greene, recently took Senator Ranard Henfield to task for allegedly uttering a homophobic slur while on Facebook. To his credit, Henfield has apologised. Greene seems to want more from the former We March organiser. With her typical persecution complex, Greene has called for MPs and senators to launch an anti-hate speech campaign, as if the LGBT community is being systematically harassed by the heterosexual population. I’m certain there have been LGBT members who have uttered heterophobic slurs in the past. However, Bahamian heterosexuals never seek to make a mountain out of a molehill by demanding government intervention when they are insulted by gay people. Why is it that Greene and co. always feel as if they are entitled to preferential treatment?
A calamitous presidential performance which rolls on and on
The current American president’s chaotic administration has rarely suffered a worse week than the one just past. If a Democratic effort to impeach Donald Trump was not previously on everyone’s mind, it is now unlikely to again be far from the epicentre of the media circus and public discourse.
INSIGHT: Succeeding by degree - all four of them
“At the time because my mum hardly knew anyone in Nassau she went home to Dominica for family support in the last stages of her pregnancy with me. However, we returned before I was one-month-old,” recalled Frances. The need for Land Surveyors in the country in the 1950s drew Frances Armbrister’s mother and father to The Bahamas from Dominica for work.
INSIGHT: Tis the season - to be on your guard
ARMED robbery is one of the most serious and potentially dangerous crimes committed today. Robbery usually occurs quickly and can be very violent. Plan ahead and reduce the dangers and the potential losses.
INSIGHT: Stand up, speak up because Rome is burning and time is running out
A statement may have been made at one or more of the Caribbean countries that attended the Conference of the Parties (COP) on the disastrous effects of climate change in Katowice, Poland in early December, but if any statement was made it is nigh impossible to find it despite the considerable search engines on the internet.
What's on your Christmas list for The Bahamas?
AS we approach the thick of holiday season and goodwill abounds, the Bahamian people take pause to share in the season of giving with their loved ones. Despite the challenging moments on the political front, a year ending means another begins. To that end, as we are creatures of hope, we must recognise through the toughest of times there is still much to be thankful for and to look forward to.
We're all getting in the Christmas spirit
IN a bid to improve their public image, a team of police prosecutors held a toy drive and luncheon last week for over 80 children at the Bahamas AIDS Foundation.
Police increase visibility in Grand Bahama shops
POLICE visibility has been beefed up on Grand Bahama, particularly in the main shopping areas throughout the island for the Christmas holidays.
Residents call for lower energy prices in remote areas
SOME 300 letters of support signed by residents of West and East Grand Bahama were delivered on Friday by the Coalition of Concerned Citizens to the Office of the Prime Minister in Freeport calling for government intervention in lowering the cost of the energy in those outlying areas.
Police investigate series of armed robberies
NEW Providence police are actively searching for the men responsible for a number of armed robberies which occurred over the weekend.
Dialysis patient 'missed several treatments'
A MAN who died after being turned away from the Princess Margaret Hospital’s Dialysis Unit a week ago due to a staff shortage was previously “noncompliant” with his treatment schedule, the Public Hospitals Authority said yesterday.
We're still unhappy, say junior doctors
DAYS after the Bahamas Doctors Union agreed to call off strike action to negotiate over outstanding holiday pay, junior doctors said the Public Hospitals Authority’s offer of $1.80 per hour was not generous but below minimum wage.
Man dies after argument outside Nassau nightclub
A MAN was found unresponsive with injuries to his body near an abandoned building on Hampton Street on Friday night.
Government complex destroyed by fire
SOUTH Andros MP Picewell Forbes yesterday lamented the devastation and significant loss of public records after a local government complex burned to the ground in Fresh Creek, Andros, on Friday.
Oban boss insists: We're going ahead
OFFICIALS from Oban Energies say they have completed an environmental impact assessment and will sit down with the government on January 7 for expected negotiations on a new Heads of Agreement for the company’s proposed oil refinery and storage facility on Grand Bahama.
Poachers set free due to oversight
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force officers apprehended four more Dominican fishermen in waters near Great Inagua over the weekend - bringing the total number of arrests this month to 18.
Please God, keep the lights on
BAHAMAS Electrical Workers Union president Paul Maynard yesterday told The Tribune that The Bahamas is “on the graces of God” regarding whether another major power outage will affect the country this holiday season.
Double murders: suspect charged
A 33-year-old man was charged in a Magistrate’s Court on Friday with the murders of a man and a woman who were shot dead outside an apartment in the Joan’s Heights area last week.
Bahamasair apologises twice over three days
BAHAMASAIR has issued its second apology in three days following yet another series of flight delays and cancellations for both international and domestic flights that have infuriated passengers this holiday season.
Sunday, December 23
Junkanoo 2022 test
test
Saturday, December 22
Andros government building destroyed by fire
Police on Andros are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fire which destroyed a government building on Friday.
Police investigate after man found dead in Stapelton Gardens
Police are investigating after a man was found dead in Hampton Street, Stapelton Gardens on Friday night.
Friday, December 21
Junior doctors: PHA holiday pay offer was below minimum wage
DAYS after Bahamas Doctors Union agreed to call off strike action to negotiate over outstanding holiday pay, junior doctors said Public Hospitals Authority’s offer of $1.80 per hour was not generous but below minimum wage.
Man charged with murder of couple
A 33-year-old man was charged in a Magistrate's Court yesterday with the murders of a couple who had just pulled up to an apartment in the Joan’s Heights area earlier this week.
Weather issues and power failure impact Bahamasair flights
MULTIPLE Bahamasair flights servicing Florida airports on Thursday were cancelled or delayed due to a “massive weather disturbance” and power failure, the airline confirmed Friday.
Hundreds of letters call for lower energy costs in Grand Bahama
SOME 300 letters of support signed by residents of West and East Grand Bahama were delivered Friday by the Coalition of Concerned Citizens to the Office of the Prime Minister in Freeport calling for government intervention in lowering the cost of the energy in those outlying areas.
12212018 EDITION
Friday, 21st December, 2018.
A COMIC'S VIEW: T’was the Night Before Christmas, 2018
T’was the night before Christmas when all through the House,
FIU beats Toledo 35-32 in Bahamas Bowl
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — FIU fumbled away the opening kickoff, gave up a touchdown 23 seconds into the game and found itself trailing by double digits by the end of the first quarter.
Bimini basketball team hit by thieves in Florida
MISFORTUNE struck a Bimini basketball team’s trip to Orlando after the team’s van was broken into and several items were stolen — including some players’ passports.
POLICE INVESTIGATE CAR ON FIRE AT MALL AT MARATHON
POLICE are investigating the circumstances regarding a car which caught on fire in the parking lot of the Mall at Marathon yesterday morning.
One dead, two injured after triple shooting on Malcolm Road
ONE man is dead and two are in hospital following a triple shooting at a Malcolm Road nightclub early Friday morning.
Rise in rapes: We must get serious
THE 12 percent increase in rapes this year is not only “alarming” but is evidence The Bahamas has not given enough attention to “very serious” gender inequality issues, attorney Marion Bethel said yesterday.
Officer told me they took Marvin
HUMAN rights group Rights Bahamas filed a writ of habeas corpus in the Supreme Court yesterday seeking to compel the Royal Bahamas Police Force to produce Marvin Pratt, 40, a Gambier Village resident police deny having in custody.
I’M DREAMING OF A LIGHTS-ON CHRISTMAS: Power outages sweep island ahead of holiday
A WIDESPREAD power outage struck New Providence yesterday due to a cable fault at Bahamas Power and Light’s Big Pond substation, leaving many residents without electricity for hours and delaying flights at Lynden Pindling International Airport.
Hield cans career high 37 in loss to Thunder
SACRAMENTO, California (AP) — Chavanno “Buddy” Hield had a career-best 37 points, including 7-of-14 shooting from three-point range, for the Sacramento Kings in a 132-113 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
COGOP Baillou Hill Road releases their first movie for Christmas
Rather than hosting a traditional Christmas programme this year, the members of Church of God of Prophecy Baillou Hill Road are excited to present what they are calling “the epic release” of their very own movie, “Called”
‘Churched and unchurched’ called to experience Jesus
All people, whether churched and unchurched, are being called to gather for one night to live ‘The Jesus Experience’.
Make the world a better place for Christmas and beyond
“He came down to earth from heaven, who is Lord and God of all” – Cecil Frances Alexander (in her hymn, “Once in Royal David’s City”)
Our planet has been visited – A Christmas message
George Buttrick, the English-born American preacher, in one of his books noted that, “Human history has been punctuated by a divine presence.” The birth of the God-man meant that the transcendent God, the Creator, took up residence among the created.
A treasured possession
What do you consider your treasured possessions? Are they family heirlooms passed on from one generation to another? Are they items on which you have spent life savings? Are they memorabilia that has been personally autographed just for you? Are they things like photo albums and scrapbooks filled with family memories?
Christmas Part I – A radical call –
Celebrate to the fullest and with a clear conscience of all pagan baggage!
Being the gift – I’m still an exceptional gift!
One of the things I love about our focus on the Christmas story is that you can apply it to so many areas of your life. When it comes to seeing yourself as a gift, and although school is out for the holidays, here are two lessons to study:
A blessed season
My brothers and sisters, We are blessed to be able to experience another Christmas season. As we go about busying ourselves, celebrating and preparing for Christmas Day, we should remember that this is the time set aside to commemorate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. His birth and the ultimate sacrifice that he made for us should be foremost in our minds.
Majority of players opt not to take part in BLTA Nationals
DESPITE a last minute amendment to the draw, the majority of the top male and female players still opted not to participate in the main draw of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s 2018 Giorgio Baldacci National Open.
Rockets vs Panthers: Bahamas Bowl kicks off noon today
WITH the Prime Minister’s Cup displayed between the two of them, the head coaches from both the University of Toledo Rockets and the Florida International University Panthers say they only have one thing on their minds - to hoist the prestigious trophy after today’s Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl.
Simply the best
THREE Marines from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force were recipients of the Marine of the Year Award in their respective categories at the force’s annual event.
Submersible completes 4,000m dive off Abaco
OCEANGATE, the world’s leading manned submersible operation, has successfully completed a 4,000 metre dive in waters off Abaco.
DIANE PHILLIPS: We may lack a little luck but we never lose hope
Another day, another week, goes by and before you know it, you look up and another year has gone by. And you wonder, how did it go so fast, no wonder they say time flies, what did I get done?
Valley Boys looking forward to celebrating their 60th birthday
THE Valley Boys Junkanoo group held a press conference yesterday to announce the group’s themes for the upcoming Boxing Day and New Year’s Day Junkanoo celebrations, which will highlight the group’s 60th anniversary.
Two men charged with murders
TWO men were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday, charged with two of the country’s most recent homicides.
Disembarkation is the key
PORT of Nassau RFP. When has The Chamber of Commerce ever been partisan in supporting any proposer-candidate to develop anything?
Best choice is clear to me
Global Holdings and APD/Arawak Port Development must have got a shock of their lives when the PS, Finance read out that a Mega Cruise Line group - Carnival - RCL - NCL -Disney had put in a bid for the Port of Nassau.
EDITORIAL: Happy Christmas to all our readers
As always at this time of year we are delighted to wish our readers season’s greetings while across the globe Christians celebrate the birth of their Saviour. In a world beset by division and conflict, it is heart-warming that the festive season brings people together, with families and friends gathering in a spirit of goodwill and harmony.
PM visits $45m site in Harbour Island
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis visited the site of a $45m development during a stop in Harbour Island yesterday.
Adrian Gibson, our shining star
The year 2018 is about to end and I felt it would be remiss of me to go into 2019 without giving kudos to Long Island’s Member of Parliament, Mr Adrian Gibson, who has worked tirelessly on behalf of the residents of Long Island since he took office as their representative in May of 2017.
‘Biggest game changer’ for realtors in 30 years
Realtors were yesterday said to be facing their “biggest potential game changer” for three decades as a result of the extra burden imposed by The Bahamas’ new anti-financial crime regime.
Tax, compliance woes put realtor into ‘back seat’
An Abaco-based realtor says he is “taking semi-retirement” from the industry due to the combination of tax hikes and an increased regulatory compliance burden.
Aliv fined $735k for roll-out miss
Regulators fined Aliv $735,000 for failing to hit one of the deadlines for the nationwide build-out of its mobile communications infrastructure, it has been revealed.
US eyes ‘open skies’ deal with Bahamas
The US is interested in sealing an “open skies” agreement with The Bahamas as many of the conditions for such a deal are already in place, a cabinet minister has revealed.
After three double murders, time to resume hanging
The Bahamas has had three execution styled double murders in a three week span, for a grand total of 89 murders in 2018 thus far. There are arguments for and against the death penalty, but philosophising alone does not produce tangible results in reducing criminality and murder. My personal opinion is that the government should resume hanging, but not as a knee jerk reaction to the reckless rampant taking of human life we have been witnessing.
Bleachers mean Bay Street ‘looks like a prison’
The Downtown Nassau Partnership’s (DNP) managing director yesterday expressed “extreme disappointment” over the placing of Junkanoo bleachers on Bay Street so far ahead of the parade, arguing that it “looks like a prison rather than a city centre”.
Bahamas wins two extra tourism awards
The Bahamas has won two awards from the largest website covering Caribbean travel and tourism.
Charities praised for making lives better for Christmas
SOCIAL Services Minister Frankie Campbell yesterday commended local charitable organisations for the help they have rendered in the lead up to the Christmas season.
Retailers urge better duty-free promotion
BAHAMIAN retailers are hoping to see a pick-up in Christmas holiday sales heading into the weekend, with one executive telling Tribune Business that “word isn’t getting out fast enough” on the clothing and shoe price cuts stemming from the Government’s duty waiver.
IAN FERGUSON: What workers want from their managers
Christmas is typically viewed as a season of giving and sharing. People create wish lists and become hopeful that someone, somewhere will fulfill their desires. In the spirit of the season, we share a short “wish list” for employers. Here are ten things, based on the research findings of leadership coach, Rick Conlow, that every employee wants and expects:
National debt now over $8bn
The Bahamas’ national debt broke through the $8bn mark during the quarter to end-September 2018 despite a reduction in its growth rate due to narrowing government deficits.
Retailers seek ‘positive’ cruise line partnership
BAHAMIAN retailers yesterday called for a more “positive partnership” with the cruise industry, with one executive saying it is a “shame” that passengers are being discouraged from spending locally.
Thursday, December 20
Suspect shot dead by police
A MAN was shot dead after a fatal run in with police who were looking for an active shooter.
12202018 EDITION
Thursday, 20th December, 2018.
Canadian tourists hurt in rental motorbike crash
POLICE are investigating an accident that left two tourists with non life-threatening injuries yesterday evening.
Five held after drugs and cash found in Grand Bahama
FIVE people were arrested in Grand Bahama for various offences, including drug possession and possession of a large quantity of cash in separate incidents.
Ferguson defends crime record but warns: Be careful about company you keep
AFTER three double homicides in as many weeks, Commissioner of Police Anthony Ferguson issued a blunt warning to Bahamians yesterday: “Be careful with the company you keep.”
Just what doctor ordered - no strike
THE imminent threat of a strike by the Bahamas Doctors Union was called off yesterday on the assurance that “swift” resolution will be brought to junior doctors receiving outstanding holiday pay, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands told The Tribune yesterday.
Fishing industry: Time to be tough
FISHERMEN faced with repeated threats from Dominican poachers said they were “extremely disappointed” with the lukewarm stance taken by Foreign Affairs Minister Darren Henfield in the government’s efforts to end the illegal practise in Bahamian waters.
Party financing draft drawn up
ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel has presented the Progressive Liberal Party with a draft bill seeking to regulate the campaign finances of political parties, the beginning of a process that could transform politics in the country.
Food donations expected to aid 2,000 families
AML Foods and Bahamas Feeding Network distributed food care packages yesterday to a number of non-profit organisations and churches in Grand Bahama for less fortunate residents.
BUSINESS BITES: We need more proof of Turnquest optimism
Before enjoying Christmas euphoria, we should spare a moment of sympathy for Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest over the dilemma he faced in his December 5 address to the House tabling five pieces of legislation, three of which are crucial to the creation and future existence of Bahamian business entities.
Mitchell attacks Dames over Fox Hill claims
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell has denounced suggestions that staff and programme coordinators at the Fox Hill Community Centre were unqualified, political hires.
Chavanno ‘Buddy’ Hield joins ‘Be A Hero’ campaign
AFTER receiving major endorsements from well- known sports heroes like Chris ‘Fireman’ Brown, Jonquel Jones and Shaunae Miller-Uibo, the Ministry of the Environment has added yet another high-profile sports superstar to its popular Be A Hero campaign, basketball phenom and Grand Bahama native Chavanno “Buddy” Hield.
Two-thirds of shanty town homes have running water
THE government’s assessment of Abaco shanty towns found 67.6 percent of those dwellings had running water, with 80.2 percent of households featuring indoor flushing toilets.
Water supply initiative helps residents on Long Island
HUNDREDS of residents in remote settlements of Long Island now have access to potable water thanks to the government’s South Long Island Water Supply initiative which extends the central water distribution system into the settlements.
Lloyd: Teachers are raising new issues every single day
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd said yesterday his ministry has addressed all 20 initial complaints listed by the teachers of C H Reeves Junior High School in their trade dispute, however he added “every single day” the teachers raise another issue.
Triple top: Here are my leading MPs of the Year
THIS year was not a good one for the average Bahamian. On balance, since the advent of the ruling FNM regime, the economy has contracted and things are 'tough' for the bulk of the lower and middle classes. The upper classes, as usual, especially the politicians, apparently, and their cronies, have increased their net worth and appear to be living large on the proverbial hog.........the Adrosian one.
Founder of Yo! Sushi buys island in Bahamas for $2.3m
A BRITISH sushi tycoon has purchased a cay in the Berry Islands for $2.5m in a private sale.
Some of our political class have been willing to sell us into economic slavery
Bahamas Power and light seems intent upon forcing us to pay more for electricity than is necessary or affordable for the average Bahamian. Every day, people tell me about having to choose between paying their light bill and other important bills and expenses. And yet there is no good reason for this.
BLTA Nationals: Players refuse to play in main draw
PLAYERS collectively took a stance on Wednesday and refused to play the opening round of the main draw of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s Giorgio Baldacci Tennis Nationals, claiming their displeasure in the way the seeding was done by the BLTA.
Youth clinic treat for aspiring stars
For the fourth consecutive year, the organisers of the Bahamas Bowl treated the aspiring Bahamian young men and women to a youth clinic.
Agreement in principle between physicians and Public Hospitals Authority
THE Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) and the Consultant Physicians Staff Association (CPSA) yesterday announced an agreement in principle to all aspects of a proposed five-year industrial agreement.
Port bidder: ‘Majority’ of $250m for Bay St
A Nassau cruise port bidder yesterday pledged that the “majority” of its $250m investment will be spent outside Prince George Wharf to help bring Bay Street “back to life”.
‘Fairly managed’?: Only if cruise port is independent
Nassau needs an independent port operator to “manage it fairly” and maximise the economic benefits from the cruise industry’s rapid expansion, one bidder argued yesterday.
$225m cruise bid: ‘Everybody wins’
Another Nassau cruise port bidder declared its hand yesterday by pledging the facility’s $225m transformation into the “Gateway to the Caribbean” under majority Bahamian ownership.
Christmas miss on CLICO payout
CLICO (Bahamas) clients are unlikely to receive a much-needed Christmas gift after a top government official yesterday confirmed their latest payout is unlikely to be made in time.
Cruise bidder plans ‘biggest offering in Bahamian history’
A Nassau cruise port bidder yesterday said it its targeting “the biggest offering in Bahamian history” by giving 20,000 locals a chance to own a piece of its $250m project.
Wednesday, December 19
12192018 EDITION
Wednesday, 19th December, 2018.
Alleged killer in custody after breaking his bail conditions
EIGHT-year-old Eugene Woodside Jr’s alleged killer has had his $50,000 pre-trial bail revoked for not honouring any of his reporting conditions since August.
East Bay street roadworks to drag on into new year
THE completed re-pavement of East Bay Street will happen in the new year, according to Deputy Director of Public Works Damian Francis.
CULTURE CLASH: How we dress isn't the problem, bullying attitudes to belittle women is
It is not uncommon to experience and hear about difficulty accessing government services.
Most shanty town residents in Abaco own their homes
AN “overwhelming majority” of shanty town residents in Abaco said they own the unregulated dwelling they occupy, according to the preliminary analysis report by the Shantytown Action Task Force.
Missing Marvin - we don’t have him
POLICE Commissioner Anthony Ferguson said nobody named Marvin Pratt was recently arrested or is in police custody, despite claims he was taken into custody weeks ago and has not been seen since.
Poacher sentences ‘cause of concern’
OFFICIALS from the Dominican Republic are concerned about lengthy prison sentences given to fishermen found guilty of poaching in Bahamian waters, Foreign Affairs Minister Darren Henfield revealed yesterday.
$80k doctors had ‘generous’ offer
AS he pointed to the use of taxpayer dollars to fund tuition costs of young doctors, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands suggested the Bahamas Doctors Union’s strike vote had gone against the expectations of Bahamians who will inevitably suffer inconvenience from any form of industrial action BDU might stage.
Couple slain as they arrive home
A MAN and a woman were shot dead in the Joan’s Heights area early yesterday morning, marking the third double homicide in New Providence this month. The incident, which some neighbours speculated was a “targetted crime,” occurred just after midnight on Tuesday.
Bowl executives donate 3,000 bowl tickets to students in New Providence
MAKERS Wanted Bahamas Bowl (MWBB) executives have donated 3,000 bowl tickets to students in New Providence.
Blue Jays hire Antoan Richardson as Outfield Coordinator
FORMER pro baseball player Antoan Richardson thought his pioneering Major League career was over when he announced his retirement in 2017. It turns out that retirement was just the beginning of Richardson’s baseball journey.
Rockets, Panthers hold first official workout sessions
AFTER settling in at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island, both the Toledo Rockets and the Florida International University Panthers took to the field for their first official workout sessions on Tuesday.
BLTA NATIONALS: Cartwright, Rolle, Clarke, Thompson and Major Jr win
It was a clean sweep for Kerrie Cartwright, Danielle Thompson, Marvin Rolle and Kevin Major Jr as they closed out round robin play in the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s 2018 Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals.
Time to tame the dragon
This tale was inspired by the resolute and ongoing work of the members of the Lighthouse Point Protection Coalition and my reading of Columbia University and NASA climate scientist Kate Marvel’s fairy tale in Scientific American, Slaying the climate dragon. Marvel’s tale serves as a launching point for a tale about another metaphorical dragon, and I am indebted to her for both inspiration and her reminder that, while not all original fairy tales have sanitised happy endings, the impact of the villian on the victim can be mitigated by virtuous champions — thus allowing fairy tales to end on a hopeful note, inspiring the done-to, the affected, to continue to do battle against the dragon.
We must beware people who want to change their name
I am a Bahamian citizen by birth, origin, heritage, lineage down through time were Bahamian. My grandparents birthed my mother and she bore children– there were ten of us – each gender properly represented…and we all were given names…so that differentiation/can take place…so that we/they would be able to systematise the differences.
NUMBER OF SWINE FLU CASES NOW SIX, CONFIRMS SANDS
THE number of confirmed cases of swine flu in the country has risen to six, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands.
Bahamasair dismisses false online rumours over mechanical failure
THE national flag carrier Bahamasair dispelled false claims circulated in a voice note which spread on popular messaging platform WhatsApp yesterday, alleging a plane experienced mechanical failure.
Man who stabbed technician to death has sentence cut
A MAN who stabbed a Cable Bahamas technician to death as he tried to protect his 10-year-old daughter during a home invasion on Grand Bahama 17 years ago has had almost 20 years shaved off his 60-year sentence.
Maybe now is not the best time!
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Penile prosthesis: An effective solution for erectile dysfunction
Every Bahamian man will face issues with erectile dysfunction at least once in his lifetime. It is an embarrassing affliction that many men suffer with needlessly in silence.
SURFING INTO HISTORY: Islay becomes a record breaker
ISLAY Symonette didn’t set off to make the Guinness World Records.
Let’s talk about PrEP!
Local doctor explains the ins and outs of drug that reduces the risk of getting HIV
WITH 151 new cases of HIV reported in 2017 and about 5,287 people living with the disease in the Bahamas, the National HIV/AIDS Programme headed by Dr Nikkiah Forbes is continuing with its vigorous efforts to teach Bahamians about the epidemic, how it is contracted, how to get tested, what treatment is available locally and preventative options.
Confusion over immigration dress code
PRESS Secretary Anthony Newbold was ambiguous yesterday and could not say definitively whether Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and his administration support the Department of Immigration’s restrictive dress code policy.
‘Shift system would free up minimum of 100 nurses’
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands defended the Public Hospitals Authority’s now deferred shift system yesterday saying the move would free up a minimum of 100 nurses to be used in public health where there are shortages.
Enjoy tea time in a new, natural way
Like most Bahamians, Ryan Winters grew up drinking tea. Of course, during his childhood he was used to tea made with store-bought tea bags. As he grew older, however, he discovered the “natural” lifestyle and this extended to his favourite beverage. He found that he preferred loose-leaf tea as it tasted superior.
2,200 set to enjoy extra special festive meal
ON Christmas Day, more than 2,200 families will be able to gather together and partake in a hearty Christmas meal thanks to the generosity of AML Foods Limited and those who supported the third ‘Feed Five Thousand Families’ holiday giveback event.
S&P: ‘Reforms will take time to pay off’
The Government last night hailed its success in breaking “the perpetual cycle of credit rating downgrades”, despite Standard & Poor’s (S&P) warning its reforms will “take time to pay dividends”.
Bahamian doctor makes history, joins Cleveland Clinic’s Glickman Institute
In what is believed to be a first, a Bahamian surgeon has been chosen to join the faculty of the Cleveland Clinic’s Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute in the United States, a facility that is part of the award-winning Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.
UB Mingoes knock off Pirates 85-80, Bucket top Elite 113-104
THE Aliv Bucket and the University of the Bahamas Mingoes pulled off the New Providence Basketball Association’s double header played on Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.
ANOO set to ‘Walk It Off’ on January 5
AFTER consuming all the ham and turkey over the Christmas holiday, the newly formed ANOO Association and Sports Fellowship Institute will hold a “Walk It Off” event on Saturday, January 5, 2019.
Bay St ‘survival’ fears over cruise industry port bid
A former downtown Nassau retailer yesterday expressed concern that many remaining businesses may not “survive” if the cruise line-backed bid to take over the port is successful.
‘Not out of woods’ on financial crime rating
The Bahamas cannot afford to “prematurely celebrate” its upgraded compliance with global anti-financial crime standards when it remains on two “watch lists” and under “enhanced” scrutiny.
Private sector not against regulation - just its inefficiency
Bahamian businesses are not opposed to regulation, just its inefficiencies, two private sector leaders have told Tribune Business.
Fishermen seek ‘pick-up’ despite poaching threat
BAHAMIAN fishermen have begun to finally see a “pick-up” in their harvest this crawfish season, a top executive said yesterday, warning that poachers “aren’t easing up” and have changed their tactics.
‘First batch’ of SMEs progress to funding
SOME seven small and medium-sized businesses have seen their plans progress move forward for funding so far, the Small Business Development Centre’s (SBDC) principal said yesterday.
GB resort targets March for 50% room renovation
Grand Bahama’s Pelican Bay resort plans to complete the renovation of half its room inventory by mid-March 2019 after investing $4m to finish 45 units in time for Christmas.
Bahamas on track through rail link-up
The Bahamas has ramped up its tourism marketing efforts in Florida through a partnership with Brightline, the high-speed rail system that connects major cities in the Miami area.
Designers named for $500m project
A Princeton architectural firm yesterday said it has been selected to design the revival of Port St George, the $500m investment project proposed for Long Island.
Tuesday, December 18
Man found shot dead at his Freeport home
RESIDENTS of a quiet Freeport subdivision were shocked after a man was found shot to death at his home in the upper-middle-class area known as The Ridge yesterday morning. The victim, who is a well-known resident of Freeport in his late 40s, was discovered by a friend.
12182018 EDITION
Tuesday, 18th December, 2018.
FACE TO FACE: ‘As a mother, when tragedy strikes, you could end up in a place where you forget about your spiritual life; the natural kicks in and you ask God: Why?’
IT was really a shock to hear that Katherine Hilton, the mother of Ashlee Hilton, died just two weeks after her daughter was fatally shot by a gunman on the grounds of Sandiland’s Rehabilitation Centre.
‘Over-the-Hill schemes help to reduce crime’
BAIN and Grants Town MP Travis Robinson yesterday said recent initiatives in Over-the-Hill constituencies are helping to “decrease the level of crime” in these communities.
BAMSI workers accused of armed robbery
TWO farm workers at the Bahamas Agricultural and Marine Sciences Institute (BAMSI) were remanded to prison yesterday charged with robbing an Andros businessman at gunpoint of $8,000 last week.
Couple shot dead in Joan's Heights
A man and a woman are dead after a shooting in Joan’s Heights just after midnight on Tuesday.
Government ‘didn’t do homework’ as bill delayed
FRED Mitchell criticised the Minnis administration’s handling of the controversial Non-Profit Organisations Bill, insisting that recent delays prove the government failed to do its “homework” on the legislation’s potential impact.
Visa suspect takes FBI deal
THE Haitian-Bahamian man at the centre of an explosive FBI undercover operation into visa fraud in The Bahamas has taken a plea deal, according to court filings.
Fox Hill staff unpaid and youth schemes halted
STAFF and youth programmes at the multi-million-dollar community centre in Fox Hill have become casualties of a battle between the Minnis administration and the non-profit organisation that owns the facility.
‘Stop trying to police our clothes’
ACTIVISTS have criticised the Department of Immigration’s new dress code for entry as “gender-based discrimination” and “irrational”.
Stranded couple: Help us get home
AN American couple is currently stranded in The Bahamas without passports and no funds to return back to Kentucky after missing their return cruise due to a medical emergency.
Internet sensation Jeremy Archer on indecent exposure charge
INTERNET sensation Jeremy Archer will stand trial next month accused of exposing himself inappropriately in a public place last month.
Ten-year-old McKayla organises walk-a-thon for diabetes patients
After seeing her grandmother struggle to monitor her glucose levels, 10-year-old McKayla Knowles was inspired to raise funds to help people living with diabetes.
Baker ‘prayed like a sinner in church’ to launch her cake business
For Katisha Corneille it is an euphoric experience to see simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter and eggs come together to create delicious masterpieces.
The ‘Balloon Princess’ rises to the occasion, donates to breast cancer support group
Karis Knowles, the 11-year-old “Balloon Princess”, has fulfilled yet another one of her promises by donating to the fight against breast cancer in the Bahamas.
THE PRESS BOX: Two potential future NFL players all set for Bahamas Bowl, clinic
COLLEGE Football Bowl Month is underway. And once again our very own - the fifth annual Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl - is part of an outstanding lineup on ESPN.
UB Mingoes lose to STU Bobcats after strong start
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – Kemsy Sylvestre and Justin Smith combined for 49 points for UB but a slew of three-pointers from St Thomas University late in the game kept the Mingoes from picking up the win.
Jacobi Bain gets win over Rolle
JACOBI Bain got one of the early surprising victories as the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s 2018 Giorgio Baldacci Open Nationals Challenge got underway yesterday at the National Tennis Center.
FIU Panthers and Toledo Rockets touchdown at Atlantis
The excitement is now building with the arrival of the Florida International University Panthers and the Toledo Rockets at the Atlantis resort yesterday for the Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl football game.
Cartwright and Thompson breeze to victory on day 1
KERRIE Cartwright and Danielle Thompson both breezed past their respective opponents - Afrika Smith and Sierra Donaldson - on day one of the Giorgio Baldacci Open National Challenge.
Juries can’t deliver the justice we need
Our justice system makes use of juries in criminal and select civil cases.
Why American Football event is a bad investment
For whatever reason does tourism think the Bahama American Football Bowl is an event that should be expensively sponsored? We have to demand that after this year there will be a public disclosure of the audience - attendees at Thomas Robinson Stadium - cost to Tourism - hotel revenue/spend?
Stop giving these murderers the kid glove treatment
In October 2013 I wrote that Bahamas Christian Network CEO Silbert Mills had posted on his Facebook page that there were 1,000 murders committed in The Bahamas up to that point since the state execution of David Mitchell on January 6, 2000.
EDITORIAL: Who can the US trust to dig out the truth?
Chapter 184 of the Statute Law of The Bahamas establishes the purpose and power of Commissions of Inquiry. In the legislation, there is provision for the Governor General to appoint such a commission “whenever it shall appear to be for the public benefit to do so”. It is stipulated that, in general, Commission of Inquiry proceedings be held in public and that the commission’s summary report represent “a full, faithful and impartial inquiry into the matter specified in the commission”.
Bahamas Feeding Network gets an extra $5,000 to help those in need
SOCIAL Services Minister Frankie Campbell announced yesterday that the ministry will donate $5,000 to the Bahamas Feeding Network (BFN) from the Urban Renewal Commission to assist citizens in need.
American arrested at airport for failing to declare more than $70,000
AN American man was arrested on Sunday at Lynden Pindling International Airport for failing to declare more than $70,000 in cash.
A&E doctors in GB make donation to children’s home
DOCTORS from the Accident and Emergency Department at Grand Bahama Health Services held their annual Christmas give-back event at the Grand Bahama Children’s Home on Friday.
Bird causes flight to return to Grand Bahama
A WESTERN Air plane bound for New Providence returned to Grand Bahama International Airport shortly after take off on Monday morning because of a bird strike to the plane’s windshield.
‘Government keeps moving goalposts over Grand Lucayan’
THE government continues to move the “goalpost” on the resale of the Grand Lucayan property, Senator Michael Darville suggested yesterday.
PM visits Family Islands
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis spent much of yesterday bringing Christmas cheer to Family Island residents along with assurances that his administration was working to eliminate discrimination between the capital and the islands.
12 migrants held in Bimini
TWELVE undocumented immigrants were captured on South Bimini by the combined efforts of the Royal Bahamas Defense Force and police officers stationed on the island on Sunday.
Diver found dead off Exuma Cays
POLICE are investigating an alleged drowning that occurred in the Exuma Cays on Sunday.
Second group of fishermen in a week detained
FOR the second time within a week, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force arrested a group of Dominican fishermen for illegally operating in Bahamian waters.
US, UK warnings end on ‘great leap forward’
The Attorney General yesterday expressed hope that the US and UK will “withdraw or soften their advisories” against The Bahamas after its “great leap forward” in fighting financial crime.
Rationale for non-profit bill ‘does not exist’
An outspoken QC yesterday argued that “the rationale for the Non-Profit Organisations Bill does not exist” because no such Bahamas-based group operates using foreign currency.
‘Potential remains’ for property tax fall-out
A prominent Abaco attorney has called for a property tax formula that is “fair and reasonable”, warning that “the potential is still there” for the latest hikes to scare off foreign investors.
Non-profit forced to ‘get creative’ on Aliv donation
A non-profit’s need to “get creative” so it could access a major donation from Aliv highlights why civil society wants the law to impose “accountability” for the sector’s timely registration.
$500m: ‘A bit overwhelming’
LONG Islanders yesterday called for greater “insight” into the proposed $500m Port St George project’s revival, describing its scale as “a bit overwhelming”.
Cruise bidder pledges partnership approach
One of the three Nassau cruise port bidders is pledging to drive more passengers off-ship and increase their per capita spending in an effort to boost downtown Nassau businesses.
Ex-BPL chair laments missed lng possibility
A former Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) chairman yesterday urged the utility to “sort out” its Clifton power plant woes “sooner rather than later”, arguing that the country’s energy costs would now likely match Florida’s had his liquefied natural gas (LNG) plan been embraced.
Monday, December 17
12172018 EDITION
Monday, 17th December, 2018.
Witness says gunman asked victim ‘You remember me?’ before shooting
A MAN had just bought tobacco products from a local tuck shop before he was shot dead in the Woods Alley area as part of an alleged murder plot two years ago, a Supreme Court jury has heard.
INSIGHT: Another year like this and it could be game over for Minnis & Co
WITH the year 2018 wrapping up, it is quite normal to evaluate how the government has performed throughout the year. Naturally, those opposed to the government take advantage of the opportunity to tell their compatriots, “I told you so”, and supporters loyally defend their party, for better or worse. Likewise, there are those on the fence who may give the benefit of the doubt as they are only two years into a five-year contract with the Bahamian people.
INSIGHT: The rise of a Third Force, thinking outside the box could change it all
LIKE many I remain an ardent supporter of the FNM, but like many, I too am frustrated, exasperated and discouraged at the dissonance exhibited by my party.
Woman killed as car pulled out had alcohol troubles
A MOTORIST, pulling out of her driveway, rolled over and killed a 51-year-old woman at Sheila Close off Joe Farrington Road shortly before 8pm on Saturday, police said.
Mother of shooting victim dies
A FAMILY has suffered a double tragedy after the mother of Ashlee Hilton, Katharine Hilton, died.
UPDATED: Drive-by shooter kills 1, injures 2
ONE man is dead and two others are said to be in serious condition in hospital following a shooting in Ridgeland Park over the weekend.
Woman in 80s assaulted in home raid
AN elderly woman was sexually assaulted during an armed robbery attack on Saturday, police said.
WHERE’S MY SON? Suspect ‘held’ 13 days ago goes missing
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander said the Royal Bahamas Police Force has launched a full-scale investigation into the whereabouts of Marvin Pratt, 40, a Gambier Village resident whose family believes he is in police custody.
WORLD VIEW: Scotiabank’s obligation for decades of profits
A CURIOUS double standard is bein g applied by the Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS) by its decision to sell its operations in nine Caribbean countries to Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) of Trinidad and Tobago.
Seven Dominican fishermen guilty of poaching
THREE days after they were apprehended by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, seven Dominican fishermen were charged before the courts on Friday for poaching in Bahamian waters.
Man held after marijuana find
DRUG Enforcement Unit officers in Grand Bahama arrested one man and seized more than 20 pounds of suspected marijuana in two separate incidents.
Fugitive from US caught at airport
A MAN declared a fugitive in the United States was caught at the Lynden Pindling International Airport on Saturday attempting to flee the country, police said.
It’s official! Bowl week kicks off in Bahamas
BOWL week has officially kicked off in the Bahamas.
Munnings and Warhawks get 74-58 win over Bain and the Lumberjacks
A PAIR of Bahamian players faced off in non-conference play and another set a new career-high scoring mark to highlight action from throughout NCAA Division I.
Dehydrated, Canadian Lemieux withdraws from fight
TUREANO Johnson and his camp were left with disappointment rather than a much-anticipated return to action in the ring.
Consecutive wins for Deandre Ayton and Suns
WITH a roster in a state of flux and their top scorers back from injuries, Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns scored consecutive wins for the first time this season.
New champions crowned in Father Marcian Classic
The 33rd edition of the Father Marcian Peters Basketball Classic produced new champions in five of the six contested divisions.
‘Crazy’ Abaco property tax bill fears resurface
Realtors are warning that “absolutely crazy” real property tax valuations and billings are again threatening to undermine Abaco’s vital second home/property market.
Don’t they know it’s Christmas?
Social media is awash with commentary about the time chosen by “someone” to do road works to East Bay Street between the Bridge and Who Knows Where. Not that that little stretch doesn’t need repaving, but OMG does it have to be done at the busiest time of the year when people have the least amount of time available to sit and dither in traffic?
My thanks to an inspiring Knight
Bastian pays tribute to Mr Denis Knight.
We’re no fools - we’re just tired
PM so correct on the future for electricity but we cannot forget the 80MW Standby generator RFP…or the pre-RFP contractor - is still in place therefore the RFP was ‘not issued’?
Too many guns are coming in from US
There is a craft which politicians need to learn when to talk and when to simply shut up and be quiet!
Courts need to show the way
In the last fortnight, social media has been obsessed by the PM’s silly remarks about Bahamians having lost their fear of crime under his watch. While foolish remarks by our prime minister have long since become as newsworthy as the sunrise, it is sad to see the focus of the discussion about crime once again misdirecting itself: this time onto the absurd distinction of whether 90 or 110 Bahamians were slaughtered with illegal guns in a given year.
EDITORIAL: TURMOIL IN EUROPE AND IMPORTANCE OF SAFEGUARDING OUR OWN DEMOCRACY
The continuing violent demonstrations on the streets of Paris and other French cities in reaction to economic and other reforms have caused chaos amidst nationwide anger. Similar riots in other parts of the EU as well, provoked by dissatisfaction with government policies, have reflected widespread unrest on the continent.
Dames promises new crime-fighting techniques in 2019
WHILE he said on Friday he is pleased by the results of new policing strategies implemented under the Minnis administration, Minister of National Security Marvin Dames said “we are a very long way from getting it done,” and indicated that new crime-fighting technology would be rolled out in the first quarter of 2019.
I was singled out as a thief by Sun Oil, says former employee
A FORMER Sun Oil employee is suing that company for accusing him of stealing over 41,000 gallons of gasoline a year ago, suggesting he was made out to be the fall guy in the matter.
No more NIB letters for business licence
The Government has eliminated the need for companies to provide upfront proof of National Insurance Board (NIB) compliance before they can obtain business licence renewals.
‘First positive financial sector news in decade’
The attorney general will today unveil “the first positive news for financial services in a decade” by revealing that The Bahamas’ compliance with global anti-financial crime standards has been upgraded.
Govt says: We’ve accepted 80-90% of non-profit needs
The Government believes it has “accommodated 80-90 percent” of non-profit concerns over plans to regulate the sector, although it remains on a collision course with the church.
Christmas lights up for 15,000 BPL customers
AROUND 15,000 Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) customers will be able to benefit from the utility’s offer to help keep their lights on over Christmas, its chairman believes.
Doctors Hospital names new chief finance officer
Doctors Hospital has named former KPMG executive, Dennis Deveaux, as its chief financial officer.
Hackers bragging about Central Bank take-down
Hackers are bragging that the Central Bank of The Bahamas’ website was an “easy target” for them to take down, although the regulator says the attack was “stabilised in less than 24 hours”.
Bahamas in multiple aviation agreements
The Bahamas last week signed multiple aviation agreements in a bid to stimulate increased airlift that will drive economic and tourism growth.
Royal Caribbean chief: Private isles don’t hurt Nassau
Royal Caribbean’s top executive has refuted arguments that the cruise industry’s reliance on its Bahamian private islands is hurting Nassau, adding that there are “opportunities’” to improve the latter’s product.
Friday, December 14
12142018 EDITION
Friday, 14th December, 2018.
Arrests in Grand Bahama over drugs, firearms and ammunition
GRAND Bahama Police made several arrests this week in connection with drugs, firearms and ammunition possession.
Ministry caution on medicine containing Valsartan
IN the wake of expanded recalls, the Ministry of Health is purchasing and distributing medication that does not contain the ingredient Valsartan, which is found in several blood pressure medications, the ministry said in a press release yesterday.
Minister advises withdrawal of Del Monte “fiesta corn”
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands is advising wholesalers and retailers to pull cans of recalled Del Monte “fiesta corn” from their shelves, noting there is “no way” anything can be done to “make the product safe”.
Dept of Immigration dress code sparks debate
THE Department of Immigration’s dress code has sparked public debate, with people divided over whether the rules are an example of old-fashioned beliefs and institutional misogyny while others see no issue with the standard.
Police recruits complete fire training
Thirty-four recruits completed fire training at the Police College in Freeport, making them the first Fire Squad to pass out in over a decade at the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Man jailed for shopbreaking, stealing, and causing damage
Moses Storr, 35, was sentenced to four years and six months in prison after pleading guilty in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Friday to charges of shopbreaking, stealing, and causing damage.
Man held in connection with armed robbery
ONE man is in custody in connection with armed robbery and the recovery of an illegal firearm.
A COMIC'S VIEW – Translating the code: What men really mean
In the spirit of fair play a certain subject must be addressed.
Wells confirms post office has been shredding mail
TRANSPORT and Local Government Minister Renward Wells confirmed yesterday that the General Post Office has been shredding mail, but said the exercise has been consistent with international standards. He characterised the mail that has been shredded as “undeliverable.”
Lucayan union ‘feasts on economic tragedy’
The Grand Lucayan’s managerial union has been accused of “feasting on an economic tragedy” by demanding an extra $650,000 payout after the hotel had already upped its offer by $500,000.
SENSELESS: Father-of-three’s murder leaves families reeling
THE Coconut Grove community was left in shock and disbelief in the aftermath of the murder of Mario Cartwright, a husband and father of three small children who was shot unexpectedly as he entered a corner store on Wednesday.
Former Cabinet Minister's killer has life sentence cut
ONE of three men convicted of the murder of former Free National Movement Cabinet minister Charles “Chuck” Virgil two decades ago has had his life sentence reduced by the Court of Appeal.
Properly dressed or it’s ‘don’t come in’
PEOPLE must be “properly dressed” when they come to the government building, Immigration Minister Brent Symonette said yesterday in answer to reports that women have been turned away from the Department of Immigration for wearing shorts.
Buddy, Nemanja, Bogdan and Kings stop T-Wolves 141-130
SACRAMENTO, California (AP) — Sacramento coach Dave Joerger wants his team to use its speed to run right past opponents.
Confusion as school bus drivers sent termination letters
THE government has terminated contracts for dozens of Family Island school bus drivers but intends to rehire the contractors and give them better terms of employment, Minister of Education Jeffrey Lloyd said yesterday.
We are behind on cannabis reform, says Bishop Hall
BISHOP Simeon Hall yesterday acknowledged that the country was “behind” on consultation for cannabis reform, but noted he was still optimistic.
Bethel: There’s no rush for us to pass NPO Bill
THE stalled Non-Profit Organisations Bill 2018 is under no immediate pressure for passage, according to Attorney General Carl Bethel, who yesterday revealed the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) doesn’t call for a full implementation until September 2019.
Senate agrees Business Licence Amendment Bill
THE Senate has passed the Business Licence Amendment Bill 2018, aiding the Minnis administration’s push to repeal amendments it brought earlier this year.
Abaco group appeals Supreme Court order to pay $250,000 'security costs'
AN Abaco-based advocacy group is contesting a Supreme Court judge’s order for it to pay the government and a US-based developer a combined $250,000 in “security costs” ahead of the group’s judicial review of the proposed construction of a marina at the heart of a solar powered community.
Court of Appeal dismisses appeal of man who aided killing teenager
A MAN has had his hopes dashed for contesting his near 20-year sentence for aiding the person responsible for killing the teenage son of convicted drug traffickers Dwight and Keva Major four years ago.
Spreading Christmas cheer in Freeport
THE Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) with the Ministry of Tourism held an annual gift-giving event at Freeport Harbour on Tuesday spreading Christmas cheer to over 200 students on Grand Bahama.
EDITORIAL: Public consultation a duty, not an afterthought
ON December 10 the upper chamber of government withdrew a bill it anticipated would zip through without so much as a challenge.
Judge, jury and executioner . . .
I am disappointed that Sandals Bahamas briskly decided to take on the roles of judge, jury and executioner in the matter pertaining to the New Jersey couple and the Bahamian butler.
Way too fast for my liking
Traffic - speeding and where are our $6million worth of new patrol cars?
Too much privilege for the US embassy
Strange it could be, but did you see the equipment the US embassy donated to the Ministry of National Security?
Sad but marriage has lost its value
I wrote this a while ago and I would like to bring out what Is important to this article:
Johnson vs. Lemieux: ‘They said fireworks, it’s going to be bombs’
BOTH fighters and their promotional teams exchanged their final words before the much-anticipated middleweight bout between Tureano Johnson and former IBF World Champion David Lemieux.
Bahamas Bowl to create ‘home away from home’
The Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl matchup between the Florida International University Panthers and the Toledo Rockets will feature several compelling storylines with two of the most exciting offences in their respective conferences and the expectations of fanbase less than an hour away from New Providence.
International Elite Sports Academy to host its first Christmas Baseball Camp
INTERNATIONAL Elite Sports Academy will look to keep young baseball players active over the holiday break as they head into their respective 2019 seasons.
Heed the writing
How do you react when you see or hear any or all of the following warnings?
Woe to the bloody city
Thinking about the lives that were taken by the criminal element in our nation’s capital really hits home to the very core of my soul.It is absolutely incumbent upon every child of God to take a stand and to diffuse the fiery darts of the wicked one.
Delton Fernander helps his readers find “The Missing Peace”
WITH all the turmoil going on in the world and people facing new challenges in their lives, many are looking for peace.
An ode to strength – Gospel singer releases new album
GOSPEL singer Ricardo Clarke describes his latest album as a celebration of strength, especially in difficult times.
Honouring Mark Cartwright – Gala concert pays tribute to Fam Fest founder
The gospel community is coming together to pay tribute and honour one of their own with a special concert dedicated to Mark Cartwright.
Tech Talk
• Video review and goal-line technology are coming to water polo to help the oldest Olympic team sport keep pace.
China launches pioneering mission to far side of moon
China launched a ground-breaking mission on Saturday to land a spacecraft on the largely unexplored far side of the moon, demonstrating its growing ambitions as a space power to rival Russia, the European Union and the US.
Hertz, Clear partner to speed rentals with biometric scans
Biometric screening is expanding to the rental car industry.
Union withdraws Atlantis strike vote
The hotel union’s threatened Atlantis strike vote has been withdrawn, its president confirmed yesterday, adding that he was now focusing on securing a new industry-wide industrial deal.
GB resort loses out on under-insurance
A Grand Bahama resort has lost out in its dispute over a Hurricane Matthew insurance claim because it failed to realise what would happen if the property was under-insured.
Cruise lines’ port bid: ‘This is what we do’
ROYAL Caribbean’s top executive yesterday said the cruise lines’ expertise and understanding of their industry meant they were ideal candidates to oversee Nassau’s port transformation.
Minister: Come see me when you have a deal
A Cabinet Minister yesterday told Tribune Business he had informed investors pitching a $500m Long Island project to “come back and see me when you have a Heads of Agreement”.
Thursday, December 13
12132018 EDITION
Thursday, 13th December, 2018.
Road chaos hits Nassau
ROADWORKS on East Bay Street are angering some residents and business owners, reigniting longstanding concern that highway repairs typically take place during the day rather than at night.
Man shot dead as he walks in on raid
A MAN was shot dead as he walked unsuspecting into an armed robbery of a store last night - a killing that comes just a day after the murder of the brother of 11-year-old Marco Archer, who was killed seven years ago.
Minnis defends changes to Business Licence Act
MONTHS after passing amendments to the Business Licence Act, which angered many in the private sector, the government made a U-turn on the decision by reverting to the former regulations yesterday.
Trio face cocaine retrial in February
THE retrial of a former woman police officer, her brother and another man in connection with a $64,000 cocaine seizure at Lynden Pindling International Airport five years ago has been adjourned to next year.
‘Miss Florida’ to face drugs trial next year
INTERNET sensation Handerea “Miss Florida” Rolle’s criminal trial alleging that she was caught with $1,700 worth of marijuana, intending to supply it to others, will continue early next year.
35-year-old arrested over break-in at Royal Bank of Canada branch
A 35-year-old man was arrested in connection with last week’s break-in at the Royal Bank of Canada’s Freeport branch.
Charities report donations decline
CHARITY organisations such as the Children’s Emergency Hostel, Persis Rodgers Home for the Aged and the Ranfurly Home for Children have all reported their donations for the Christmas season are down.
Family’s agony after Marco brother slain
THE man shot dead outside of his North Street home on Tuesday is Rico Archer, brother of 11-year-old Marco Archer, who was killed seven years ago.
Is post office now shredding our mail?
TRANSPORT and Local Government Minister Renward Wells yesterday announced his ministry has launched an investigation into claims of a mass shredding exercise underway at the General Post Office.
Grand Lucayan payouts ‘before Christmas’
THE government is working on completing voluntary separation payouts for Grand Lucayan staff before Christmas, according to Finance Minister K Peter Turnquest, who yesterday insisted there was an agreement with the workforce’s trade unions.
Seven poachers stopped at sea
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force apprehended seven Dominican poachers off Little Inagua on Tuesday afternoon.
The only thing we have to fear
Re: PM: Public’s not afraid any more, The Tribune, December 7.
‘100% green’: $7m spend for last Hotel Corp resort
A Bahamian entrepreneur yesterday said he plans to create the country’s “first 100 percent green resort” through a $7m investment to revive the last Hotel Corporation-owned property.
We’re stuck talking loud but saying nothing
As 2018 draws to a close there are several questions which we, as a people and a nation, must ask ourselves. Unemployment and under employment continue to be problematical for the FNM.
Downtown redevelopment: Why is it taking so long?
Downtown Nassau continues to be a terrible eyesore and a stain upon our national reputation.
Time we had a more efficient taxation system
As a way to raise revenue for The Bahamas, I can think of no worse way than the current customs duty regime.
EDITORIAL: It’s a wonder the Bahamas has any viable business
A RECENT Industrial Development Bank survey reports that the functional capacity of The Bahamas’ civil service scores 19 out of 100 on the charts, showing “that the Bahamas has significant room for improvement”.
Munnings and Warhawks back in the win column
AFTER losses in four of their last five games, Travis Munnings and the Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks began their homestand back in the win column.
Canadian Lemieux: ‘I’m ready and I’m a beast’
Tureano Johnson and David Lemieux had an opportunity to discuss predictions and strategy on their upcoming bout as fight week promotion is in full swing.
Bahamian and Jamaican charged with Immigration Act breaches
TWO men - one Bahamian and the other Jamaican – were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court this week for breach of the Immigration Act.
Meeting Street: Will be paved in new year
MOTORISTS who frequent Meeting Street will have to endure poor road conditions for a little longer with Minister of Works Desmond Bannister telling The Tribune the street should be paved “early in the new year”.
Complaint over Ocean Club manager - but workers speak up in support
THE Department of Labour has conducted an investigation into complaints by middle managers at Four Seasons Ocean Club that a foreign senior manager was “verbally abusive” to Bahamian staff.
DIANE PHILLIPS: I’m being robbed and it’s driving me mad
There are 18 thieves in my house, maybe more, five in my bedroom alone, another six in the kitchen. I have tried to ignore them, shut my eyes and pretend they are not there. I have willed them away and tried cover-up tricks to get rid of them, but I can’t. Most of them are smaller than a fingernail but thieves they are. They steal my sleep and run up my BPL bill.
Chipman and McAlpine stand with opposition on House ruling
TWO Free National Movement MPs stood alongside the Official Opposition yesterday against the House of Assembly proceeding with its normal agenda after the issue of opposition question time was raised during the sitting.
Government has 'egg on its face' after not listening
BRANDING the Minnis administration “wayward” and “stubborn,” Exuma and Ragged Island MP Chester Cooper said a failure to listen about changes to the Business Licence Act was an embarrassment that did nothing to support government’s pledge to improve the ease of doing business in the country.
Sports Notes
THE Bahamas continued competition at the 14th FINA Short Course World Championships with three of the four team members in action.
Lucayan managers: Board ‘hellbent’ but we dropped by $1m
The Grand Lucayan is “hellbent” on using the wrong formula to calculate staff separation packages for middle managers who were yesterday said to have cut their demands “by over $1m”.
Central Bank official: OECD tried to 'hobble' permanent residency
A top Central Bank official has accused the OECD of trying to “hobble” the competitiveness of The Bahamas’ economic permanent residency regime by including it in an arbitrary “quasi-blacklist”.
Banks urged: Don’t ‘stifle’ investment currency outsource
Bahamian commercial banks were yesterday warned not to “stifle” the goals behind the investment currency market’s outsourcing through “compliance trepidation”.
Post Office almost eliminated backlog
A Cabinet minister yesterday confirmed he was looking into claims of a mass shredding of mail at the General Post Office, adding that workers were close to catching up with the mail backlog.
Bahamian group drives Mayaguana port plan
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the proposed Panama Canal-style port development in Mayaguana, which he admitted is in its "infancy", is being driven by a Bahamian private sector group and not the Government.
Sterling expands its executive team
Sterling Global Financial, the Bahamian-headquartered financial services provider with more than $9 billion in assets under administration and management, has expanded its executive team.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Quieting our minds so creativity can flourish
Have you ever been driving down the street when, suddenly, the solution to a concept you have been mulling over for weeks pops into your head?
Companies will 'feel the Business Licence change'
The prime minister yesterday pledged corporate Bahamas will receive “prompter service and less bureaucracy” when they submit business licence filings and payments in the New Year.
Wednesday, December 12
12122018 EDITION
Wednesday 12th December, 2018.
CULTURE CLASH: ‘Sorry’ still seems the hardest word
How many times do you apologise in week? For stepping on someone’s foot, bumping into someone, hurting someone’s feelings, or failing to follow through on a commitment, we often have to say we are sorry. Apologies do not immediately repair damage, but they are not just words.
Major crime on the way down, says AC Seymour
MAJOR crime categories continue to trend downward, according to Acting Commissioner of Police Emrick Seymour.
Minnis & Co have ‘no clear vision for energy reform’
THE Minnis administration has “no clear vision for energy reform” Progressive Liberal Party leader Philip Davis said yesterday, adding that if the current government had followed the former administration’s “blueprint,” the country would not be where it is today.
We'll avoid financial blacklisting, says Turnquest
THE Minnis administration is confident it has done everything necessary to avoid a financial blacklisting, according to Deputy Prime Minister K Peter Turnquest.
NPO bill fraught with challenges - PLP leader
OPPOSITION leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday the decision to delay the passing of the Non-Profit Organisations Bill was “prudent,” noting the bill was “fraught with challenges”.
Culmer: McAlpine still has FNM support
DECLARING that the Free National Movement needs to move forward from public fighting, party chairman Carl Culmer said he was prepared to fly to Grand Bahama to personally meet with FNM MP Frederick McAlpine, seemingly extending an olive branch to settle grievances.
‘Stop giving us the runaround’: Nurses allege deliberate bid to delay strike
BAHAMAS Nurses Union President Amancha Williams yesterday slammed labour officials for what she called a deliberate delay to certify her union’s strike vote, claiming officials were pandering to the public for support instead of doing the “right thing”.
Legal status for majority in shanty town census
MOST shanty town dwellers in unregulated communities across Abaco have legal status permitting them to reside in the country, according to Labour Minister Dion Foulkes, who yesterday revealed an estimated population size of around 3,500 residents.
Poachers’ jail terms cut in half
MORE than 40 convicted Dominican poachers have had their one-year prison sentences reduced by half on appeal. The Court of Appeal ruled on Monday that the 45 poachers will now serve six months behind bars.
Oban 2 deal? Umm, maybe next month
DESPITE announcing in June that the Minnis administration would have a renegotiated Oban Energies deal in a matter of weeks, Labour Minister Dion Foulkes said yesterday the government is still looking to pin down a firm date to rework the Heads of Agreement.
When freedom of speech will be put to the test
Popular Jamaican dancehall and reggae artist Buju Banton has finally been released from a U.S. federal prison after serving seven years for conspiracy to possess cocaine with the intent to distribute. Banton was incarcerated at the McRae Correctional Facility in the state of Georgia.
‘NFL Lovers’ campaign a treat for winners, Dolfans
THE official beer of the National Football League, Bud Light’s regional Caribbean division along with local distributors Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company, continue to give fans an opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and feel of the game through its “NFL Lovers” campaign.
Plane makes emergency landing at LPIA
A PLANE carrying 21 passengers was forced to make an emergency landing at Lynden Pindling International Airport early yesterday morning.
Abaco police investigate after man shot in the leg
ABACO police are investigating a incident during which a man was shot in the leg.
Anti-smuggling working focused on nuclear security
THE International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) in collaboration with the Royal Bahamas Police Force held an opening ceremony yesterday at the Melia Nassau Beach Hotel for an anti-smuggling workshop.
Bahamas in 14th FINA Short Course World Swim Champs
THE Bahamas’ four-member team began competition with a personal best at the 14th FINA Short Course World Swimming Championships in Hangzhou, China.
Don’t Blink! Time to crown the Home Run Derby King
For the second consecutive year, the country’s top pro baseball prospects will host another showcase of local and international talent, vying for the title of the Bahamian Home Run Derby King.
Powerade to fuel United FC
THE Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC) is proud to return as a sponsor of the United Football Club (United FC) for the 2019 season.
‘Defying the Odds, Fulfilling Our Dreams’
Roadrunners enjoy 19th annual awards banquet at Atlantis resort
ROADRUNNERS head coach Dexter Bodie said ever year they take the time out to recognise young people striving to be great in the sport of track and field, whether they were forced into it by overzealous parents or came on their own free will. He said they try to change the lives of every athlete they come across.
Bahamas golfers bring home the Higgs & Higgs Trophy
THE Bahamas was well represented at the recent Caribbean Golf Association’s (CGA) Four Ball Championship.
Ronald Cartwright thanks Demaris Cash
RONALD Cartwright, head coach of the RC Athletics Throwers Club, wishes to extend his appreciation and gratitude to Demaris Cash, who once again sponsored their annual throwers’ meet.
Lucayan payouts: ‘Take it or leave it’
The Grand Lucayan’s Board plans to begin voluntary staff separation payouts without an agreement with the workforce’s trade unions on their value and terms, its chairman said yesterday.
Stand up for our rights as a sovereign country
If you want to launder or hide money today where do you go - US, UK and Europe - forget the Bahamas - it is too small!
Live life for the children is a good motto for us all
The recent proliferation of crime committed by adolescents is taking a toll on society. Both young women and young men that look to crime as a way of life are being charged with serious offences.
Over-the-Hill unit hires 42
THE government’s Over-the-Hill unit has hired 42 people as environmental monitors after 80 applied for the job, according to Project Manager Rocky Nesbitt. Those selected include 24 women and 18 men, he said.
‘High expectations’ NAD’s $75m offer is oversubscribed
The Nassau airport operator’s advisers last night said they had “high expectations” its refinancing will be fully or oversubscribed after raising 90 percent of their target within the first two days.
‘Trustworthy’ hotel operator sought to preserve 100 jobs
Old Bahama Bay’s owner was yesterday seeking a “trustworthy” new operator after repossessing the resort to facilitate its sale for the former Ginn project’s $2.8bn redevelopment.
Three cruise port bids: Spend from $130m to $250m
The Government has received three bids, ranging in investment value from $130m to $250m, for the contract to manage and operate Nassau’s cruise port.
BTC pays for Black Friday meltdown
Regulators have ordered the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to pay 50 percent of its fine for last year’s Black Friday mobile number portability meltdown to affected consumers.
Minister uncertain on hotel union strike vote
The Minister of Labour yesterday said he was uncertain whether the hotel union will continue with its strike vote given assertions that its concerns have been addressed.
DPM: ‘There’s still much work to do’
THE DEPUTY Prime Minister yesterday stressed that the Government must continue with its economic growth and fiscal initiatives, conceding: “There is still a lot of work to be done.”
Davis: IMF ignores nation’s ‘social pain’
THE Opposition’s leader yesterday argued that the latest International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) report fails to capture “the social pain being inflicted” by the Government’s austerity measures.
Tuesday, December 11
Man shot dead in Fort Fincastle
A MALE was gunned down in the street Tuesday night in a shooting in Fort Fincastle, the 87th murder victim of the year.
12112018 EDITION
Tuesday, 11th December, 2018.
FACE TO FACE: When the mountain is too high you have to ask for a little help
Jarvis and Dereka Grant are a power couple in the world of culture in The Bahamas.
BPL employees ‘didn’t know’ about companies which got fake cheques
A BAHAMAS Power and Light retiree claimed yesterday his former department never did any business with two of the many companies a former bank employee allegedly wrote fake Scotiabank cheques for as part of a multi-million-dollar theft scheme in the early part of last year.
Nassau Christmas lights costing us $100,000 – but they'll last for years
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister revealed yesterday that the new Christmas lights erected around town cost just over $99,000.
‘Shell deal can’t cost us jobs’
BAHAMAS Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard insisted yesterday no employee will be pushed out as he raised concerns regarding the job security of Bahamas Power and Light employees upon the completion of the Shell North America deal.
AG: We’ll listen but bill will go ahead
THE Senate delayed debate yesterday on the Non-Profit Organisations Bill to allow for the review and possible incorporation of suggestions from civil society, according to Attorney General Carl Bethel.
Thanks for the invitation, Brave . . . but FNM’s rebels staying put - for now
WHILE saying there is no immediate need for him to now cross party lines, Free National Movement MP Frederick McAlpine yesterday said he was keeping his “options open” as relations between him and the governing party remain frigid.
Ole Miss ladies end 5-game losing streak, Bahamians struggle in NCAA Division I
OLE Miss Women’s Basketball finally ended a five-game losing streak. However, other Bahamian players and their programmes across NCAA Division I continued to struggle over the weekend.
THE PRESS BOX: Hats off to Cooper and Cowboys!
MY Dallas Cowboys wouldn’t be, winners of five straight games, one victory away from locking down an NFC East title and the accompanying playoff berth, if it weren’t for Amari Cooper. Period!
Cartwright and Lions finish as runners-up
HIS senior season ended just short of the ultimate team goal, but Michael Cartwright is already looking ahead to the complement of his recruitment process and NCAA decision.
‘Heavy Is The Head That Wears The Crown’
WHEN the NBA schedule was released, we (because I’m making all of you a part of this) circled December 4 as the day we would literally witness a new historic chapter in Bahamian basketball.
Johnson to square off with Lemieux this Saturday
Bahamian pro boxer Tureano Johnson is expected to step back into the ring for the first time in just over 15 months.
With a bodyguard, I would feel safe too
I don’t care what the Prime Minister or the Minister of National Security says we the People do not feel safe in our neighborhoods. He and his minister have bodyguards!
FNM would lose an election if held today
MAY 10th, 2017 for the FNM party it was a red letter day they had been voted in with a very large majority 35 against four but the electorate knew this was not the real world it was the proverbial Bahamian decision when they are fed up with Party ‘A’ just vote dem out. Did they want the FNM?
Glad to see this BISX flexibility
Three months ago, I suggested that BISX remove the pricing restrictions that reduce trading in our local market. Those restrictions remain in place, but BISX did accede to investor requests to widen the trading band on Arawak Port Development, Bahamas Property Fund, and Benchmark Bahamas. This caused a resumption of trading and significant price changes in all three stocks.
EDITORIAL: From the ruins of the Soviet Union Putin strives to revive the Russian superpower
The passing of former US President George HW Bush reminded many that we are approaching the 30th anniversaries of some of the most critical geopolitical events of the second half of the 20th Century.
Grand Bahama enjoying lift in tourism sector
MINISTER of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson highlighted revelations from the latest report from the Central Bank of the Bahamas which showed an overall increase of more than three percent in stop-over visitors to Grand Bahama, marking improvement in the island’s tourism sector.
Is arguing really necessary in a relationship?
As long as two or more people come together in life there will be differences of opinions. Those differences more often than not lead to arguments. But they don’t have to. We act the way we do because of the information we’ve received. Our actions generally shift when there is a change of information.
PHA paramedic travels to Tennessee for expert help
A paramedic supervisor from the Public Hospitals Authority’s National Emergency Medical Services (NEMS) recently joined nearly 6,000 participants from more than 50 countries at the EMS World Expo held this year in Nashville, Tennessee.
Bill is an invasion of our privacy, warns QC Smith
ATTORNEY Fred Smith yesterday echoed concerns levelled by civil society over the proposed Non-Profit Organisations Bill, calling the legislation a complete invasion of privacy rights.
Bannister critical of Gray's 'irresponsible statement' over bill
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister released a statement yesterday dismissing former Minister of Agriculture V Alfred Gray’s “irresponsible statement” concerning a proposed Contractors Association Bill for Parliament.
Teen author has ‘amazing’ meeting with Governor General
It is not every day that a 10th grader gets to pay an intimate courtesy call on the person who holds the highest office in the land, but then again, teen author Sierra Blair isn’t your average high schooler.
Getting ‘Tingsy’ with it: Young entrepreneur finds success with gift box venture
ALL over the world, there has been a rise of millennial entrepreneurship as young men and women are starting more companies and holding managerial positions.
‘Strike vote at school must be certified’
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson yesterday said the union will have to seek legal recourse if the strike vote held by C H Reeves Junior High School teachers is not certified.
Creating in paradise: Travel enthusiast urges writers to share their inner voices
ONE of the first things on the agenda for Terrenique Bastian when 2019 rolls in is to help aspiring authors get their creative juices flowing so they can finally publish books they have not been able to finish or even start to write.
Bahamians ‘walk in the shoes’ of domestic violence victims to gain new perspective
Sixteen days of activism to “Say No to Violence Against Women and Girls” wrapped up worldwide this Monday with the commemoration of International Human Rights Day.
IMF gives govt vital ‘boost of confidence’
The IMF yesterday gave the Government a much-needed “boost of confidence” with an upbeat assessment of its economic and fiscal reform progress despite the “many challenges ahead”.
Union rejects Atlantis’ ‘no strike vote basis’ assertion
ATLANTIS’ assertion that there is “no basis for a strike vote” was yesterday vehemently rejected by the hotel union, which said it still plans to proceed with its December 18 poll.
Credit Bureau operator set for January selection
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday confirmed that the preferred operator for The Bahamas’ first-ever Credit Bureau will be unveiled in January amid IMF calls for its “speedy” creation.
Bahamas ‘25% of way there’ on reform progress
The Bahamas is “maybe 25 percent of the way there” on economic and fiscal reforms, a governance campaigner said yesterday, with too few Bahamians feeling the benefits of this progress.
Non-Profit Bill too one-sided
The Government’s Non-Profit Organisations Bill is too one-sided because it neglects the positive effects of the sector’s growth for Bahamian society, a governance reformer argued yesterday.
Non-profit groups set for ‘mapping and valuation’
Civil Society Bahamas yesterday pledged to identify all the country’s non-profit groups and produce a valuation of their worth, as the Government delayed moving forward with controversial legislation to regulate the sector.
Bank heads sessions at infrastructure forum
CIBC FirstCaribbean headed two sessions at this year’s Caribbean Infrastructure Forum (CARIF 2018), focusing on financing trends and climate resilient water supplies.
PM: ‘Fill the 7,000 empty hotel rooms’
The prime minister has challenged the Bahamian hotel industry to “fill the 7,000 rooms left unoccupied” in 2018 so that it can maximise the nation’s tourism potential.
Monday, December 10
Lady Zoe Maynard dies, aged 92
FRIENDS and family are mourning the death of Lady Zoe Maynard, wife of former Deputy Prime Minister Sir Clement Maynard, who died peacefully at home yesterday, aged 92.
12102018 EDITION
Monday, 10th December, 2018.
Campaign finance laws to come this term, pledges PM
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said campaign finance legislation and the full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act are still being prioritised by his administration, insisting the implementation dates for both will come during this term.
Non-profit bill ‘does not exclude political parties’
THE Non-Profit Organisations Bill that passed the House of Assembly on Wednesday does not explicitly exclude political parties from its financial disclosure requirements, Official Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis has said.
No contract for Christmas decorations
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister said yesterday this year’s Christmas decorations were the result of “direct orders” and not contracted work, as has been the case previously.
INSIGHT: Feeling safer? I’m amazed Minnis could say that with a straight face
WITH the nation on pace for its lowest murder count in a decade, the government has much to be proud of with regard to its crime fighting efforts. The previous government campaigned and won the 2012 election largely on an empty promise to eradicate crime. Unfortunately, we all know how that panned out. Successive murder records were set under the former administration and fear was at an all-time high with rapes, robberies and murder rampant throughout the country.
Munroe concern over confidential settlements
AS governments around the world come under fire for confidential settlement agreements, their use persists in The Bahamas in the absence of public scrutiny, alarming transparency advocates.
‘Please help to pay for Tarique’s treatment’
A LACK of money has kept Tarique Miller, a nine-year-old boy diagnosed with hereditary angioedema (HAE), away from “critically important” medicine for almost six months.
US fugitive caught in Nassau nightclub
AN American wanted in the United States for multiple murder investigations and other alleged offences, was captured at a nightclub in New Providence on Saturday, according to local police.
Water chief sues for unfair sacking
Former Water and Sewerage Corporation’s general manager Glen Laville has filed a lawsuit against the corporation alleging unfair dismissal, Attorney General Carl Bethel confirmed yesterday.
Nurses hold to strike threat
DESPITE the Public Hospitals Authority’s decision to indefinitely defer its new shift system implementation for nurses, Bahamas Nurses Union president Amancha Williams said yesterday the union remains firmly committed to taking industrial action.
EDITORIAL: If PMH is best – God help the rest
WE were very interested in a statement by Dr Marcus Cooper during the recent consultants pay dispute at the Princess Margaret Hospital, in which he explained that it was because of the personal and professional sacrifices of these same doctors to improve the quality of services in our public system that The Bahamas “is able to boast the best public healthcare facility in the region”. Dr Cooper is president of the Medical Association of The Bahamas.
GAIN AN EDGE: Princeton’s proof of just what’s possible
When Princeton Boston entered the gates of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) in 2010, he was focused. By summer of the following year, he had earned a certificate in auto mechanics with his sights set on college abroad. Today, Princeton is a mechanical engineer at Benteler Automotive, a German manufacturer for exhaust systems in Michigan.
WORLD VIEW – The Caribbean: Confronting its demons
Had the meeting of CARICOM governments on the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) been the only event affecting the Caribbean in the first week of December, it would have been a week to celebrate. But, it was also a week when global emissions of carbon dioxide reached such high levels that the future of Caribbean countries is now almost irreversibly endangered.
INSIGHT: The little things all added together which could mean so much
Among the many poignant testimonials following the loss of well-known pilot Byron Ferguson in a plane crash last month, one touched a particularly important nerve.
QC Comets dominate inaugural Cross Country Championships
ALTHOUGH it was a team scoring event, the Queen’s College Comets athletes turned in a dominating performance at the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools’ inaugural Cross Country Championships, winning six of the eight categories contested at St Augustine’s College on Saturday morning.
NPBA: Bucket, Shockers Stingers in the win column
THE Aliv Bucket, Seafood Shockers and PJ Stingers were winners of the New Providence Basketball Association’s triple header at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Saturday night.
Athletes shine on the track and field
ROLANDO ‘Lonnie’ Greene, in his first year as head coach of the University of Kentucky Wildcats’ track and field team, liked what he saw from freshman sprinter Devine Parker in her collegiate debut at the Hoosier open indoor meet in Lexington, Kentucky, on Friday.
Keyshawn Strachan wins javelin, qualifies for CARIFTA
ON his first attempt, Blue Chips Athletics’ Keyshawn Strachan won the under-20/open men’s javelin on Saturday in the RC Athletics Throwers Meet at the University of the Bahamas field, becoming the first qualifier for the 2019 CARIFTA Games.
A story that is worth a thousand smiles
There is a saying that it is better to give than receive. I would like to share a story about two people who gave to a young girl and received a lifetime of smiles and thanks.
Should we look closer to home for business?
The compendium…heard that before under the FNM - remember those faxes when Hubert Ingraham was PM?
We must oppose this violation of religious freedom
The Non-Profit Organisations Bill, 2018 (the NPO Bill) recently passed in the House of Assembly.
NIB in cash flow boost via $139m NAD refinancing
The National Insurance Board (NIB) will receive a cash flow boost in return for smoothing the $139.1m refinancing of Nassau’s airport operator, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.
Legal battle disrupts $2.8bn Ginn revival
A brewing legal battle has disrupted the $2.8bn revival of Grand Bahama’s former Ginn project and creation of up to 1,400 full-time Bahamian jobs, Tribune Business can reveal.
Condo owners fearing 1,500 room night loss
The Old Bahama Bay resort faces “irreparable harm” through having to place 1,500 room night reservations “on hold” due to uncertainties over its imminent sale, its condo owners are alleging.
‘Leave no room for doubt’ that political parties in NPO bill
The Bahamas’ Transparency International affiliate has urged the Government to “leave no room for interpretation” on whether political parties are captured by the Non-Profit Organisations Bill.
Civil society fears bill’s ‘decimation’
Civil society groups have until this Saturday to provide the Government with their concerns over a Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) Bill many feel could “potentially decimate” this sector.
Airlift access hurts south Out Islands
The Bahamas must continue to promote itself as a multi-island destination and make all destinations easier and more affordable to access, one executive saying: “We know what the solution is”.
Jamaica the model for investment promotion
THE Government is planning to use the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) as the model for investments promotions arm it wants to add to the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA).
Sunday, December 9
Saturday, December 8
Friday, December 7
Scheidt/Boening demolish opposition on final day of Star Sailors League Finals qualifying
While the star performers today certainly were Robert Scheidt/Henry Boening and Paul Cayard, significant to more competitors was what was happening mid-fleet. For on Friday, the final Qualifier races were held at the Star Sailors League Finals in Nassau.
Break in at Royal Bank of Canada in Freeport
THE Royal Bank of Canada in Freeport was broken into by culprits who shattered the large glass window gaining access into the bank early Friday morning.
PM: High energy costs stifling industries
HIGH energy costs and a lack of efficiency in the sector continues to stifle major segments of critically important and budding industries, according to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis.
Post office 'relocated to Town Centre Mall by January 1, 2019'
THE relocation of the general post office to the Town Centre Mall is now expected to be completed by January 1, 2019 and on budget, Transport Minister Renward Wells has revealed.
Six held after illegal firearms discovered
SIX men are in police custody and five illegal firearms have been taken from the streets after separate incidents in New Providence and Berry Islands Thursday.
Pop-up farmer's markets bring in more than $250,000
BAHAMAS Agricultural & Industrial Corporation (BAIC) Executive Chairman Michael Foulkes announced Friday pop-up farmer’s markets around the capital have brought in more than $250,000 in revenue this year.
Grand Bahama to host Fred Stirrup Amateur Boxing Showdown
THE Fred Stirrup Amateur Boxing Showdown is set for Saturday, March 16, in Freeport, Grand Bahama at the Wallace Groves Auditorium on East Sunrise Highway.
Gambier Primary School students encouraged to 'be a hero'
ENVIRONMENT Minister Romauld Ferreira continued his “Be a Hero” campaign Friday at Gambier Primary School.
12072018 EDITION
Friday, 7th December, 2018.
Inmates graduate from training
A ceremony was held yesterday at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services in honour of the first cohort of inmates to graduate from a training and certification programme at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI).
Cameras broken at murder scene
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said yesterday law enforcement will “go vigorously” after those responsible for the two double homicides that occurred in the capital this week. As Monday’s shooting occurred at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, Mr Dames also said he is working with a team to create a “robust policy” to improve security at “all government properties”.
Doctors call a halt and do deal
SENIOR public doctors ended their industrial action yesterday after signing an agreement-in-principle that boosts their terms of employment.
US court orders visa scam mum deported
A BAHAMIAN mother of four, who was caught up in the FBI’s two-year undercover operation into US visa fraud in Nassau, was sentenced to time served and deportation in a federal court yesterday.
PM: Public’s not afraid any more
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is convinced Bahamians are no longer fearful of crime under his administration as was the case in years past, adding yesterday he was pleased with the accomplishments authorities have achieved in a short timeframe.
Juniors represent Bahamas in Lil Mo tennis tourney
A CONTINGENT of young tennis juniors from the Bahamas represented the island nation at the Lil Mo International tennis competition in Florida.
Rebuilding walls of hope
Advent is the time to consider the impossible.
God’s one word
The Bible is normally referred to as the word of God or God’s word. This suggests that although God spoke many words, they are all one. One in unity, one in love, one in obedience, one in righteousness and one in judgement.
A refreshing worship experience
An experience dedicated to “unrestrained, prophetic intercession and worship” is being promised by the organisers of “The Refreshing”.
Experience an outpouring of God’s love
This Friday is set to be a night of miracles, signs and wonders, according to Latasha Taylor Ministries, which will host worship encounter at Mount Tabor Church.
Being the gift
Based on the music, decorations and clothing out now, we know everyone is anticipating Christmas. If not for Junkanoo, then for the shopping and decorating. If not that, then for the food. Of course the holiday and days off are a bonus as well.
The true meaning of Advent
Advent began last Sunday, December 2, and continues to Christmas Eve. There are four weeks in this season. Hold the breaks; no, it’s not Christmas yet!
Christian women may be delayed, but never denied
A local church hopes its annual women’s conference will not only break down denominational boundaries, but also bring about unification and empowerment in the proclamation of the gospel.
Sports Notes
TRACK BAISS CROSS COUNTRY
THE FINISH LINE: Let’s make sure the international events stay on our calendar in 2019 and beyond
THE Star Sailors League is back and they are off and sailing in Montagu Bay.
Levy, Howard and Rutledge all set to call Bahamas Bowl
VETERAN ESPN SportsCenter anchor and college football commentator Steve Levy, 1991 Heisman Trophy winner and Super Bowl XXXI MVP Desmond Howard and sideline reporter Laura Rutledge are expected to call the 2018 Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl.
In the NPBA, Buckets rout Stampers, Giants pound Pros 87-61
THE Aliv Buckets and the Commonwealth Bank Giants emerged victorious in the New Providence Basketball Association double header at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Wednesday night.
Blaize making his presence felt for the Eagles
BLAIZE Darling Jr, a versatile track and field athlete and basketball player, is making his presence felt for the Master’s Academy High Eagles in Orlando, Florida.
Justin Roberts advances to Futures semi-final
WITH another solid performance, Justin Roberts booked his ticket into the semi-final of the men’s singles in the International Tennis Federation’s USA F35 Futures Tournament in Tallahassee, Florida.
Mendelblatt, Fatih take the lead
Bahamas conditions set in on day three of the Star Sailors League Finals with 12-18 knot winds from the prevailing northeast-easterly direction.
Tackling crime in isolation is not going to solve problem
Much has been said about fighting crime in The Bahamas but whatever strategy the government employs the situation will reach Nash equilibrium – a stable state of a system involving the interaction of different participants, in which no participant can gain by a unilateral change of strategy if the strategies of the others remain unchanged.
Unfair way to treat our PM
A video clip showing an interview of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis by various reporters which aired on Clint Watson's Beyond the Headlines had made the rounds on Facebook, WhatsApp and other social media platforms throughout the country. A friend of my wife's forwarded the WhatsApp video of the interview at its tail end with Minnis jokingly talking about being more concerned about the Shell Saxons Superstars winning at Christmas. He was responding to a question about the possibility of a general strike by the unions he had met with on December 3.
EDITORIAL: We've had the warnings - but what are we actually doing?
Three years after the Paris Agreement on climate change and global warming there is renewed focus on this controversial issue with a major United Nations conference now taking place in the Polish city of Katowice. This is the first such meeting since the landmark report in October by the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change which declared drastic action is required to avert a world disaster precipitated by climate change.
Grand Bahama is winning the war on drugs, says ACP Butler
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Samuel Butler said yesterday the force has had a “major impact” on the war on drugs in Grand Bahama.
US Embassy presents equipment to RBPF
THE Royal Bahamas Police Force received $430,000 worth of equipment and gear from the US Embassy yesterday.
Move to raise VAT exemption celling a ‘hoodoo’ response
SENATOR Michael Darville yesterday called the government’s bid to raise the value added tax (VAT) exemption ceiling for electricity bills from $200 to $300 a “hoodoo” political response to mounting public pressure.
Govt in move to allow people solar power
AS he declared the cost of electricity will eventually go down, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said the government intends to move forward with legislation that allows homeowners to have some degree of solar power.
Little progress on citizenship laws, says Minnis
DESPITE announcing more than a year ago his administration’s intention to amend the Immigration Act to allow Bahamian women the right to automatically transfer citizenship to their children regardless of birthplace, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis suggested yesterday there has been little movement on the issue.
Bahamian living in Atlanta flees during trial
A BAHAMIAN man living in Atlanta has been declared a fugitive in the United States, going missing days before a jury found him guilty of rape, aggravated sexual battery, child molestation and cruelty to children in the first degree.
RBDF too slow to help distressed vessel, says boater
A CONCERNED boater has criticised the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s response time following an incident at sea where a smoking boat was left in distress for hours.
Four deny owning drugs with intent to supply
THREE women and one man pleaded not guilty to possession of a quantity of Indian hemp with intent to supply yesterday.
‘False victory’ in blacklist escape
The Bahamas will score a “false victory” if it avoids Europe’s latest “blacklist”, a former finance minister argued yesterday, as it represents another step in the “slow death” of financial services.
Non-profit ‘wipe out’ fear over new legislation
The Government was yesterday warned it will “wipe out” many non-profit organisations (NPO), and drive away valuable donations, through its new regulatory regime.
‘No deal breaker’ over landfill deal
The Government expects to close the New Providence landfill’s outsourcing “imminently”, a Cabinet minister revealed last night, adding: “There’s no deal breaker.”
Govt ‘dilemma’ over local FDI inclusion push
A Cabinet Minister yesterday said the Government faces a “dilemma” over whether it should intervene with foreign investors to secure Bahamian involvement on major projects.
Govt eyes Mayaguana for Panama Canal ‘port’
A Cabinet Minister yesterday said he intends to “push” for Bahamian involvement in designing, constructing and managing Nassau’s cruise port, while revealing that the Government is exploring the possibility of a port in Mayaguana.
Drive BISX forward by taking brakes off
Three months ago, I suggested that the Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) remove the pricing restrictions that reduce trading in our local market.
Govt to ‘tremendously’ speed up build permits
The GOVERNMENT is pursuing an electronic platform to process building permit applications, a Cabinet minister said yesterday, in a bid to “tremendously” speed up approvals.
Bahamas briefs Swiss, UK on financial sector
A Bahamian delegation has visited Switzerland and London to meet with institutions and intermediaries that play a key role in driving business to the Bahamian financial services sector.
Thursday, December 6
12062018 EDITION
Thursday, 6th December, 2018.
Student arrested in Florida for death threat to professor
A Florida Atlantic University student raised in the Bahamas was arrested last week for allegedly threatening to kill his professor for scheduling a 7am exam.
Dodge taxes and you’ll end up in court
TAX dodgers will be subject to criminal charges before the court under the government’s proposed amendment to the Penal Code.
Two accused of killing
AN adult male and a teenager were yesterday arraigned on murder and attempted murder charges.
‘We need to know source of the money’
FINANCE Minister K Peter Turnquest defended government’s intention to legislate non-profit organisations insisting yesterday the Minnis administration is simply seeking to ensure transparency while safeguarding the country against international risks.
‘Carry on, doctors’ - but end in sight
DOCTORS had a productive meeting with finance officials yesterday, pulling them closer to full service after more than a week of industrial action.
Murder toll falls by a quarter
THERE have been 86 murders for the year thus far, police press liaison officer Superintendent Shanta Knowles revealed yesterday.
‘Stop feeding harbour sharks’
The Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources yesterday cautioned the public against disposing fish innards and waste into the sea as they could attract sharks to beaches and residential areas.
PHA: New nurse shift in patients’ interest
WHILE the Public Hospitals Authority is indefinitely deferring its planned shift change for nurses, it is maintaining that the shift is in the best interest of nurses and patients.
Scheidt takes early lead after boat breaking final race
RACING at this sixth edition of the Star Sailors League Finals got off to a dramatic first day of competition in Nassau, with four races held, four different winners and a last race in which a squall brought driving rain and 25 knot gusts that claimed one rig and caused one man overboard.
Raynell Young and Eagles are champions
AFTER completing primary school at St Cecilia’s, Raynell Young has taken her talent to South Florida where she’s starring both athletically as a versatile basketball and track and field athlete and academically as an honour roll student for the Attucks Middle School in Hollywood, Florida.
Roberts advances to quarter-finals
Justin Roberts, still celebrating his birthday and the Ministry of Sports’ recognition with the Leevan ‘Superman’ Sands Courage Award, continues to turn in some tremendous performances in his comeback from an injury as he advanced to the quarter-final of the International Tennis Federation’s USA F35 Futures in Tallahassee, Florida.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Americans will spend $465 billion on their Christmas gifts, what will Bahamians do?
The Washington-based National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association, estimates Americans will spend $465 billion on Christmas gifts this year.
Why VAT exemption is not such a big deal
IT was very evident few MPs have seen a current BP&L bill. All they talked was exempting bills up to 300.00 from VAT on bills under $300. What if BP&L would advise us how many MPs are current with their BP&L Bills - where arrears what is that amount?
Dame Marguerite enjoys annual trip to the Rand
GOVERNOR General Dame Marguerite Pindling made her annual Christmas visit to the Rand Memorial Hospital yesterday, where she met with patients and staff at the public healthcare institution in Grand Bahama.
Helga visits Grand Bahama to help with sustainable tourism
HELGA Piaget, CEO and founder of Passion Sea which is an international project to spread the awareness of the importance of clean water among the world’s youth, was in Grand Bahama on Tuesday.
Man robbed of cash
POLICE are searching for the men responsible for an armed robbery which occurred on Tuesday.
Astronaut helping to preserve the most beautiful place from space
NASA astronaut Scott Kelly has donated $5,000 to the Bahamas National Trust for the protection of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.
46,000 enrol for NHI programme, says Roberts
ABOUT 46,000 Bahamians are enrolled in the government’s National Health Insurance programme as of Monday, National Health Insurance Authority Chairman Dr Robin Roberts said yesterday.
EDITORIAL: Tiger burned bright but we missed an opportunity
If you turned on the TV any time toward the end of last week or on the weekend, you were likely to see a welcome face in a familiar place, Tiger Woods at Albany.
Man stabbed after argument in street
GRAND Bahama police are investigating a stabbing that has left a 22-year-old man in hospital in serious condition.
Man is guilty of trial juror contact
A 26-year-old Freeport man was convicted of obstruction of justice and sentenced to more than a year in prison by a Freeport magistrate.
Lourawls ‘Tum Tum’ Nairn making his mark on the sidelines
PHOENIX, Arizona —The focus for much of the night was on the history making efforts of Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton, but another Bahamaian basketball figure continues to make his mark on the sidelines.
Business ‘choke point’ withdrawn
The Government yesterday retracted a private sector “choke point” by moving to eliminate the need for companies to supply “certified bank statements” with business licence filings.
NHI $1,000 cost 'not pulled from out of thin air'
THE National Health Insurance Authority’s (NHIA) chairman yesterday defended the $1,000 premium costing for its basic package, arguing it had not been “pulled out of thin air”.
OECD/EU: Lawsuits over tax breaks end are ‘your problem’
The Bahamas would have been “blacklisted” had it insisted on existing foreign investors fully enjoying their preferential investment incentives, the deputy prime minister revealed yesterday.
No ‘substance’ to private wealth fear
Private wealth management structures “ought not to” be impacted by The Bahamas’ physical presence response to global anti-tax evasion initiatives, the deputy prime minister said yesterday.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Reaching a ten year milestone
THE ART OF GRAPHIX column is blowing out ten big candles this year. It seemed like yesterday, but how time flies. Yes, November 2018 marks the tenth anniversary of this column. We began this journey in 2008 with the view that one should always cultivate or promote the things we are driven by. We should be prepared to enhance, and share our knowledge and abilities, with a wider platform.
Gov't tables $100 disaster loan plan
The Deputy Prime Minister last night sought parliamentary approval to activate a five-year, $100m emergency loan facility to help The Bahamas cope with natural disasters.
Wednesday, December 5
12052018 EDITION
Wednesday, 5th December, 2018.
Two men found shot dead in Jubilee Gardens
TWO men, one of whom was being electronically monitored by police, were found shot to death in Jubilee Gardens early Wednesday morning in a car with its motor still running. The men were reportedly cousins.
Number of confirmed cases of swine flu rises to four
THE number of confirmed cases of swine flu in the country has risen to four, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands.
Dames aiming to transform BDCS from a penal facility to a correctional one
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said yesterday the substantial role of commissioner of the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services will be filled at some point in 2019, this as several “transformative” moves are being finalised as the facility moves towards its proposed parole scheme.
Star Sailors League Finals in Nassau – Day two
A replay of day two of the Star Sailors League Finals from Nassau.
Nurses in huge vote to strike
NURSES overwhelmingly voted to take industrial action during a strike poll held yesterday, Bahamas Nurses Union President Amancha Williams said.
PM: I was only joking - honest
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is not concerned about the talk of a general strike in the country.
Dames: We have ‘fair idea’ who shot couple
POLICE have a “fair idea” who was responsible for Monday’s brazen double homicide at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre in Fox Hill and will “bring them to justice,” according to National Security Minister Marvin Dames.
‘Give us justice for our lost son’
DEVASTATED by the sudden and unexplained death of their brain-injured toddler who spent his entire life in hospital, a couple are suing the government in the hope to bring not just closure for loved ones but justice for their son.
Govt fails to halt Jean Rony case
THE Court of Appeal has granted Bahamas-born deportee Jean Rony Jean-Charles leave to appeal its revocation of a Supreme Court judge’s landmark decision concerning his controversial detention and removal from The Bahamas to the Privy Council, despite stern opposition from the Crown.
CLASH OF THE TITANS: Buddy Hield and the Kings top Deandre Ayton and Suns, 122-105
PHOENIX, Arizona — The much anticipated first NBA regular season game featuring two Bahamian born players quickly turned into a lopsided win for Buddy Hield and his Sacramento Kings.
We need to tempt the tourists off those ships
Tourism arrivals – well irony in that the FNM are now praising the economic effect of the Baha Mar project – had to be sort of a happy occasion for the good Minister seeing that his buddy Sarkis created it and PM Christie dug the whole mess out…thanks also to EXIM.
The CPSA's shakedown of the Minnis administration
SENIOR doctors of the Consultant Physicians Staff Association (CPSA) and the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) remain in stalemate. Notwithstanding the assurances of CPSA doctors, the ongoing industrial action has the potential of exposing gravely ill Bahamians who depend on the Princess Margaret Hospital to unnecessary risks. Most Bahamians do not have the option of going to Doctors Hospital or other privately owned health institutions, simply because they cannot afford to.
EDITORIAL: May's down to the wire with storm clouds on every side
Britain’s departure from the European Union is once again top of the international news agenda.
Angels upset Saints 87-71
THE New Providence Women’s Basketball Association hosted two games on Saturday as the season officially got underway at the DW Davis Gymnasium.
Bucket knock off Rockets 85-79, Stingers stop Rockets 94-78
THE New Providence Basketball Association’s double header on Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium saw the Aliv Bucket and the PJ Stingers emerge victorious.
Avengers’ Greg Taylor City Bowling League MVP
THE most valuable player (MVP) from the City Bowling League competition last night was Greg Taylor of the Avengers with a 256 high game and a 604 high three game set.
Mother of eight getting ready to run Marathon Bahamas
A RETIRED mother of eight is gearing up to participate in Marathon Bahamas in January.
Abaco Tennis Association in the spotlight
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) will be highlighting tennis development in the Bahamas over the upcoming weeks.
Roberts, Newman advance to main draw
BIRTHDAY boy Justin Roberts and Davis Cupper Baker Newman advanced to the main draw of the respective tournaments they are competing in this week in the United States and the Dominican Republic.
No wind on day 1 of Star Sailors League Finals
THE wind failed to materialise on Nassau’s Montagu Bay for the opening day of the sixth Star Sailors League Finals.
Miller-Uibo misses ‘hat trick’ of awards in athletics
SHAUNAE Miller-Uibo missed out on the hat trick of awards in athletics, losing out in the voting process for the International Amateur Athletic Federation’s Female Athlete of the Year to Colombia’s Caterine Ibarguen.
CULTURE CLASH: What we saw in 2016 is what we have now
We are plagued by the desire for a hero. When anything goes wrong, we look for someone to save the day.
Land-based commercial coral farm a blessing for Grand Bahama, says group
SAVE the Bays environmental group believe the development of a land-based commercial coral farm in Freeport by the conservation group Coral Vita is a blessing for Grand Bahama.
Justice of the peace accused of performing fraud marriages
A 60-year-old justice of the peace was charged yesterday with performing fraudulent marriages with some of the fake marriage certificates he allegedly had in his possession bearing the name of his co-accused.
Cruise bid criticism ‘absolute rubbish’
A Cabinet minister yesterday blasted criticism of the Nassau cruise port bidding process as “absolute rubbish”, adding that it was vital to the destination’s “survival as a premier Caribbean port”.
End-of-week payout deal target for 227 Lucayan workers
The Grand Lucayan’s chairman yesterday said he is “aiming” to finalise voluntary separation packages for 227 staff by week’s end, after “substantially” narrowing differences with the unions.
Top civil servant: Ministries ‘failing’ to manage staff
A senior civil servant has “unequivocally” warned that all government ministries are failing to properly manage and develop personnel, and have “major room for improvement” in both areas.
Chamber confident ‘reason will prevail’ in labour disputes
The Chamber of Commerce’s chairman yesterday expressed optimism that “reason will prevail”, giving the Government a vote of confidence in its ability to prevent further industrial unrest.
Govt urged to exit utilities ownership
GOVERNMENTS must start “divesting” their interest in state-owned utilities, an ex-Water & Sewerage general manager urged yesterday, with progress often stifled by changing administrations.
Natural resources boost vital to mitigating storms
CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES must combine “hard infrastructure” with increasing the “resilience” of the natural environment to combat natural disasters, a Bahamian engineer said yesterday.
Financial Centre marks bank’s fifth anniversary
A Bahamas-based financial institution has celebrated its fifth anniversary with the inauguration of its financial centre to show its belief this nation can become a “top five” financial centre.
CIBC pledges commitment to Caribbean infrastructure
Almost one-third of CIBC First Caribbean’s $1.8bn in financing for regional infrastructure projects over the past three years has gone to energy utilities in The Bahamas and elsewhere.
Talent shortages challenge on NHI
Continuing industrial unrest in the Bahamian healthcare sector underscores the need for this nation to “retain, regain and increase” workforce talent so it can realise its Universal Health Care (UHC) ambitions.
Tuesday, December 4
12042018 EDITION
Tuesday, 4th December, 2018.
Buddy Hield, Deandre Ayton matchup 'can motivate aspiring Bahamian athletes'
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - Ahead of their historic matchup, Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton placed the first NBA regular season meeting between the two into perspective, hoping to serve as motivation for the development of Bahamian basketball.
FACE TO FACE: Goofing around in class with the future PM - what would come next?
Too often when we see successful people, we automatically think they had it made or the road was well paved for them.
‘It’s getting better at PMH’ says minister
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands highlighted yesterday a number of significant accomplishments achieved at Princess Margaret Hospital this year and project goals for the hospital in 2019.
RBC worker told to pay back $170,000 he stole
A FORMER Royal Bank of Canada employee was yesterday ordered to pay back the $170,000 he stole from his former employer over a four-month period two years ago.
Sands orders review of security at centre
THE security and surveillance protocols at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre in the lead up to the double homicide at the property yesterday will have to be reviewed, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands has said.
AMBUSHED: Gunmen slay couple as they leave hospital
AN engaged couple were murdered yesterday in an apparent ambush near the general entrance to the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre in Fox Hill.
‘Renew boss cost me $600k’
MICHAEL Cox, the former Renew Bahamas CEO fighting allegations in court of working without a work permit, is facing a new court action alleging he defrauded a Bahamian contractor with whom he went into business in 2016.
Minnis meeting with unions falls flat
UNION leaders branded Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ large-scale meeting with them a flop yesterday, dismissing the event as an elaborate courtesy call rather than a productive attempt to resolve their issues. Rather than leading to conciliation, the meeting and its three-hour airing of grievances gave way to talk about a general strike among trade unionists, The Tribune was told.
Doctors row may have progress
SENIOR doctors could resume non-emergency services at public hospitals today following a satisfactory meeting with Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday.
Sandals couple - we’ll see you in court
THE lawyer representing the couple in a $30m Sandals resort sexual assault lawsuit yesterday defended the couple’s decision to wait for two years after the alleged incident occurred to file a case, saying the couple had to “heal somewhat” before they could “look to see justice done”.
The gender implications of poverty and degradation
We remain locked in a male-empowering, female-disempowering gaze that builds along racial and ethnic lines using stereotypes and particular behaviours as moral and social markers of difference.
Star Sailors League Finals in Montagu Bay this week
FROM wily old sea dogs to the latest fresh-faced talent, the top talent in our sport will take to the warm, azure blue waters of Nassau’s Montagu Bay this week for the Star Sailors League Finals, to determine the world’s greatest sailor - the ‘star’ of sailing.
THE PRESS BOX: Popcorn for ‘one interesting offseason’ in NFL
A five-yard run in the first quarter gave the 41-year-old Patriots QB Tom Brady 1,000 yards rushing on his career and he became the oldest player to achieve the milestone since 1970.
Anfernee Seymour Baseball Clinic
ANFERNEE Seymour shared his experience as a professional baseball player during a clinic at Freedom Farm over the weekend.
Boxer Amron Sands reflects on undefeated season
Amron Sands had a spectacular showing in 2018, going undefeated in all five fights as a professional heavyweight boxer based out of Orlando, Florida.
Suns rout Saints, 73-41
IT was a lopsided Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools senior boys’ basketball affair as the Temple Christian Suns delighted their home crowd yesterday with an impressive 73-41 rout over the visiting Kingsway Academy Saints.
Bahamian named Canada Research chair for ‘Internet of Things’
OCAD University in Toronto has named Bahamian Dr Alexis Morris, Assistant Professor of the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Sciences, as one of two Tier 2 Canada Research chairs.
Bahamian man with MS stands up for hope
David Beneby Jr has lived with multiple sclerosis for more than 20 years. Throughout his journey he has dedicated his life to motivating and empowering others to embrace life’s challenges.
Navigating the holidays
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Teen author debuts new book at Atlantis, Ardastra
Most authors pray they will snag a spot on the New York Times, Washington Post or Amazon’s best-sellers list to get wide exposure, but 14-year-old Sierra Blair took a different route.
Lightening the load: Young entrepreneur starts laundry pick-up service
It’s a brand new day, and now you will have time to enjoy it, thanks to the owners of a recently launched pick-up and drop-off laundry service called Miss Millie’s.
The Bahamas’ ‘Financialista’ warns of overspending this Christmas
We’re in the middle of the Christmas season, which means that many people will be busting their budgets buying gifts for family members and friends.
Why Christians should oppose legalising marijuana
Letter writer Porcupine’s recent write-up was more an atheistic polemic against Christianity in particular and theism in general than a counterargument against the Biblical injunction on recreational marijuana.
Government seems brain dead
BP&L…receivables of at least $91.6million unsure if that includes what Government owes them, which usually is in excess of $30 million so BP&L are owed a whopping $115 million!
Do MPs not understand basic finances?
WHEN politicians simply talk garbage and refuse to state the Cost of Operating BP&L which is the real cost reflected in the Billings then we are nowhere close to resolving the issue.
EDITORIAL: Money not the only issue in Minnis juggling act
IT’S hard to know what was likely to come out of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ meeting with unions this week.
Police hunt for suspects after series of armed robberies
POLICE on New Providence are searching for the men responsible for three separate robberies, including a home invasion, which occurred on Sunday.
Major case delayed as attorney falls ill
DWIGHT Major’s $280,000 drug case was adjourned for another four days yesterday after his attorney told the court he was too ill to continue with the proceedings.
Legal battle to restart on web shop taxation
The Government and web shops will resolve their dispute over the industry’s “sliding scale” tax structure in the courts, it was revealed yesterday, despite making progress on the “patron tax”.
Unions give PM month to avoid ‘national strike’
Trade union leaders yesterday warned the prime minister he has a month to resolve multiple labour disputes otherwise “he’s going to have a national strike on his hands”.
Hotel union: We ‘won’t talk much longer’ with Atlantis
The hotel union will “not talk for much longer” in seeking a resolution to its dispute with Atlantis, its president yesterday pledging: “We won’t allow them to dictate to us.”
Give Bahamians ‘first rights’ over BTC outsourcing
The prime minister was yesterday urged to ensure Bahamians “have first rights” on all outsourcing opportunities at the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) if downsizing continues.
Airbnb’s October bookings up 50%
Stopover tourist visitors to The Bahamas increased by 7.4 percent over the first three quarters of 2018 with the Central Bank forecasting “continued economic strengthening” through year-end.
CIBC named top Bahamas bank
CIBC FirstCaribbean has been named The Bahamas’ Bank of the Year for the third straight year.
Developers plan ‘stand out’ Jack’s Bay project
DEVELOPERS behind the mixed-use Jack’s Bay resort community in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, believe it will “stand out” in the marketplace similar to an Albany or Baker’s Bay.
‘Blurring of the lines’ weakens civil service
THE Bahamian public service has failed to attract quality talent due to a “blurring of the lines” over how is intended to function, a top accountant says.
Monday, December 3
12032018 EDITION
Monday, 3rd December, 2018.
INSIGHT: A president who delivered a moment to America when anything felt possible
There are many reasons to miss George HW Bush, the 41st President of the United States who died at the weekend. A World War II hero, he later served his country with great distinction in a number of important positions before becoming vice president and then president.
INSIGHT: Who’s really left to suffer as doctors dispute goes on?
RECENT weeks have unfolded with labour relations fracturing across various sectors, but one in particular has the potential to destabilise the nation. While threats have lingered over the past few months, senior doctors walked off the job leaving a monumental strain on the public health sector as negotiations failed yet again between the Consultant Physicians Staff Association (CPSA) and the Public Health Authority (PHA). The PHA, left with no other choice, had to temporarily cancel emergency services last week.
Foreste free after closed-door hearing
SUPREME Court Justice Andrew Forbes has dismissed the habeas corpus application of Louisbin Foreste, who was deported in violation of a Supreme Court order.
Minnis faces unions as doctors fight on
THE Public Hospitals Authority is maintaining its emergency operations protocol today as senior doctors press on with their industrial action before a key meeting with Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis this morning. Dr Minnis is said to be concerned that tensions surrounding the dispute have been ramped up too high and has asked the CPSA to stop talking about the matter in the press.
Butler: I only gave her a hug
THE accused former butler in the $30m Sandals resort sexual assault lawsuit broke his silence over the weekend, maintaining all he did was hug the bride-to-be — at her request.
Suspect shot as cops try to arrest
POLICE shot a man yesterday while trying to arrest him for a domestic complaint.
Osborne – show me the money
FORMER Bahamas Power and Light chairwoman Darnell Osborne has hired attorney Alfred Sears to secure payment from the government for defamation and breach of contract relating to the dissolution of BPL’s board in August.
Climate change a threat to us all
No doubt the issue on everyone’s lips is the cost of electricity - we have now been re-warned by Minister Bannister that the prices we saw in last months’ bills might not be the highest as the fuel (diesel) purchased was at prices of three months ago and since then diesel prices have exceeded that level…retail over $5.00 a gallon.
Jon Rahm wins the Hero World Challenge
SPANISH pro golfer Jon Rahm made his first appearance at the Hero World Challenge one of the best performances of his young career and produced his third title of the season.
EDITORIAL: The Bahamian work force is today’s challenge
IT WAS indeed a below-the-belt blow to learn from the World Bank that it is easier to do business in the war-torn West Bank and Gaza Strip than it is to do business in The Bahamas.
Bahamians given hand in fight to save species
FOURTEEN Bahamian and eight Caribbean experts took part in a week of training in Nassau on how to assess threatened and endangered species, known as the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List training.
Rolle defends ‘easy target’ of civil servants after criticism
PUBLIC Service Minister Brensil Rolle defended civil servants against critiques while also underscoring the Minnis administration’s commitment to improving the public service sector after Cabinet Secretary Camille Johnson was quoted in a recent Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report calling some key workers “weak”.
WORLD VIEW: CARICOM must not sit idle as Haiti’s torment drags on
HAITI continues to be an unsettled country politically. Demonstrations against successive governments have become almost normal, and so too, tragically, are the deaths associated with them.
Time for minister to resign
I have long been a political and fraternal supporter of the Hon Doctor Duane Sands (FNM-Elizabeth). He is a skilled medical practitioner but, in my view, a ‘bad’ politician and people’s person.
The day Chrissy lacked the love
THE Old Testament Book of Ecclesiastes 3:8 says that ''there's a time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.''
Free clinics help those affected by doctors' industrial action
AFTER hosting two free clinics on the weekend for patients affected by doctors’ ongoing industrial action, Dr Harold Munnings expressed gratitude yesterday to the team that helped him.
‘AIN’T NO STOPPING US NOW’: Winners take spotlight at National Sports Awards
Shaunae Miller-Uibo moved one step closer to earning a hat trick in athletics when she was named the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s Prime Minister Female Athlete of the Year on Saturday night at the gala national awards ceremony at SuperClubs Breezes.
Bahamas Bowl matchup all set
THE matchup is set for the 2018 Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl and both programme’s had an opportunity to conduct a site visit ahead of the game as they begin to galvanise support for the holiday season contest.
Grant and T-wolves push win streak to five games
AFTER another win against a U Sports ranked opponent, Leashja Grant and the Lakehead Thunderwolves head into the winter break with a national ranking of their own.
Jazz Chisholm signs with Roc Nation Sports
FOLLOWING what many pundits considered a breakout season in the minor leagues, Jazz Chisholm signed with one of the fastest rising sports agencies in America.
Chris Ferguson and Bearcats to face Hokies in Military Bowl
CHRIS Ferguson and the Cincinnati Bearcats learned their bowl destination last night as they look to conclude their milestone season on a high note.
BOB chair: ‘Peanut’ profits make dividend premature
Bank of The Bahamas (BOB) chairman says it is “premature” to discuss resuming ordinary shareholder dividend payments when profits to-date have been “kind of peanuts”.
BOB ‘reputation’ boost from $15m repayment
Bank of The Bahamas believes it will boost its “reputation and creditworthiness” by repaying its last $15m in preference share debt, and declaring an interest dividend, before year-end 2018.
Bahamas urged: ‘Heed’ fiscal council warning
The Bahamas would be “very wise to heed” findings that a new fiscal watchdog’s credibility will be enhanced the more independent it is from the Government.
Bahamas needs more than laws for dispute centre
The Bahamas must do much more than just pass laws if it is to realise a 20-year ambition to become “this hemisphere’s arbitration centre”, a well-known QC has warned.
Accountants await business licence regulation change
The Government is expected to “reverse” by mid-December its requirement for certified bank statements to accompany business licence renewals, a top accountant has revealed.
Saturday, December 1
Former US President George H.W. Bush dies at 94
HOUSTON (AP) — He was the man who sought a "kinder, and gentler nation," and the one who sternly invited Americans to read his lips — he would not raise taxes. He was the popular leader of a mighty coalition that dislodged Iraq from Kuwait, and was turned out of the presidency after a single term. Blue-blooded and genteel, he was elected in one of the nastiest campaigns in recent history.
