Friday, October 31
PM hits back at Symonette over sale of Hilton to Chinese firm
PRIME Minister Perry Christie defended the recent sale of the British Colonial Hilton to a Chinese state owned company yesterday and suggested FNM members like former Deputy Prime Minister Brent Symonette have been hypocritical in their criticism.
‘Broke’ BEC scraps plan to buy new generators
BAHAMAS Electricity Corporation Executive Chairman Leslie Miller said BEC has “scrapped” plans to purchase six new generators because “the corporation is broke”.
Less than 10% of businesses register for VAT
LESS than 10 per cent of businesses with an annual turnover of $100,000 have registered for value added tax ahead of the November 30 deadline, according to Michael Halkitis, State Minister for Finance.
Assessment into liberalisation of cell phone market is completed
A GOVERNMENT appointed task force overseeing the liberalisation of the cellular phone market has completed its assessments into the process and will report to the nation on the matter within days.
TRIBUNE COLUMNIST IS ONE OF 24 ATTORNEYS CALLED TO BAHAMAS BAR
TRIBUNE columnist Adrian Gibson was one of 24 new attorneys given the legal right to practise law in the Bahamas after they were called to the Bahamas Bar yesterday.
Nottage: Don’t be a vigilante
NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday said there was “no room for vigilantism” as the government announced the formulation of new crime-fighting strategies.
Hopes for more than 1,000 essay contest entries
THE Templeton World Charity Foundation is hoping that entries for their 2015 “Laws of Life” essay competition will surpass the 1,000 that took part three years ago.
Boat cruise to raise funds for Ragged Island community centre
THE Ragged Island Heritage and Cultural Association is having a boat cruise tomorrow to raise funds for a construction of a community centre.
International experts call for protection of Bimini’s environment
INTERNATIONAL conservation experts are urging the government to fulfil its promise and protect Bimini’s unique ecological heritage and the local industries that have depended upon it for generations.
Three in court over $118,000 drug seizure
THREE men remanded to prison yesterday will return to Magistrates Court today to learn their fate in connection with a recent $118,000 drug seizure.
12 years for sexual assault of girl, 9
A JUDGE yesterday sentenced a man to 12 years in prison for sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl.
PM: Govt willling to disclose BTC sale details
PRIME Minister Perry Christie said yesterday that while his government is willing to disclose details to the public about the 2011 sale of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company that took place under the former Ingraham administration, it must also consider its relationship with Cable and Wireless Communications, the company that took over BTC.
Ronnie Butler inducted into the Caribbean Hall of Fame
‘GODFATHER’ of Bahamian Music Ronnie Butler has been inducted into the Caribbean Hall of Fame, and is the fourth Bahamian to earn the distinction – after Sir Lynden Pindling, Sir Sidney Poitier and Eddie Minnis.
Taxpayers on hook over Bahamas Bowl
The taxpayer faces having to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to subsidise the upcoming Bahamas Bowl football game, after the Government effectively gave away potential multi-million dollar revenue streams to the game’s organisers.
CLUBS AND SOCIETIES: 10/31/2014
Cycling Club Bahamas
BAAA, IAAF and CSJA extend condolences to family of the late Lenford Levy
THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations has joined the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) and the newly formed Caribbean Sports Journalists Association in expressing its sadness on hearing the news of the death of Lenford Levy, director of the IAAF Regional Development Centre (RDC) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Wednesday.
Wildcats win opener over Andros
The Sigma Wildcats came up with a big five-run bottom of the fourth inning to secure an 11-7 victory over Andros to open the Bahamas Softball Federation’s National Round Robin Tournament on a high note last night in the Banker’s Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Cobb ends school blitz at HO Nash
AFTER spending the past week in town providing some tips to our high school students on making “positive choices” in their lives, former National Football League player Michael Cobb returned to the United States.
Martial artists bring home trophies
THE New Providence Martial Arts and Fitness Centre, led by instructors sensei Chin and sensei Evans, travelled with a team of 13 young Bahamians to compete in the Miami Taikai Karate Tournament in Miami, Florida, earlier this month.
Just 7.5% of VAT collecting firms register to-date
The Government yesterday said it was preparing to “use all the tools in our arsenal” to drive Value-Added Tax (VAT) registration, with just 7.5 per cent of the estimated 4,000 mandatory registrants having submitted applications to-date.
'Exclude' renewable energies from VAT
The Government has been urged to “exclude” renewable energy devices from Value-Added Tax (VAT), a leading sector provider suggesting this would incentivise their use and match existing tax policy.
Bahamas 'got everything needed' on tax exchange
The Bahamas “got everything we wanted” from this week’s OECD Global Forum meeting, with its stance on how the automatic exchange of tax information should be implemented accepted by the international community.
Stock market maintains slow, steady recovery
The Bahamian stock market maintained its slow but steady recovery through to end-September 2014, with the exchange’s All-Share Index up 7.44 per cent for the year.
'Something wrong' with construction ease fall
A leading contractor yesterday said it was “disturbing” that this nation had dropped 17 spots to 92nd in the world when it came to processing construction permits, telling Tribune Business: “Something is wrong with that picture”.
Sports notes
IN Financial Bowling League competition Wednesday night, the Price Waterhouse Coopers bowling team sent a clear message which was that their team is no longer to be taken lightly.
Thursday, October 30
The Public Accounts Committee has been hijacked
“THE Committee of Public Accounts,” says May’s Parliamentary Practice – the practitioner’s “bible” for the Westminster system of government – “is empowered to examine the appropriation accounts and such other accounts laid before Parliament as the committee thinks fit.
Tourism honoured with four stamps
The Ministry of Tourism (MOT), in conjunction with the Bahamas Philatelic Bureau General Post Office, this week unveiled four commemorative stamps in honour of its 50th anniversary. \
Don't leave workplace competence to chance
A ‘workplace competency’ is the description of a required skill, feature or behaviour for a specific job, and is used to define and measure an individual’s effectiveness.
Department of Consumer Affairs: does it still exist?
EDITOR, The Tribune. What happened to the Department of Consumer Affairs, does it still exist? The government and police need to protect consumers from unscrupulous businesses who knowingly sell defective products. They make no effort to assist the customer toward a satisfactory resolution.
How many times must my family and household be assaulted?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Dr. Minnis does not understand our system
EDITOR. The Tribune.
Police find home invasion suspect ‘hiding’ in hotel on PI
THE 18-year-old suspect wanted for questioning in connection with the home invasion and murder of Blair resident Andre Cartwright was caught by police early yesterday morning “hiding” in a Paradise Island hotel, according to Chief Superintendent Paul Rolle.
Bahamian boat captain gets 14 year sentence in US over fatal human smuggling trip
A BAHAMIAN boat captain has been sentenced to 14 years in a US prison for a human smuggling venture that resulted in the deaths of four Haitian women. US District Judge Kathleen Williams imposed the sentence yesterday on Naaman Davis, who pleaded guilty in May.
Minnis: I won’t lie to nation on crime
FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said crime is “out of control” as he urged the government to disclose what impact, if any, its highly-touted Urban Renewal initiative has had on the problem.
Ministry: sick plane passenger was not suffering from Ebola
THE MINISTRY of Health yesterday dismissed rumours that a visitor who became severely ill while travelling on a private charter plane in the Bahamas was suffering from the Ebola virus.
Judge asks why it took nine years for child rape trial
A JUDGE sought an explanation yesterday on why it took nearly nine years for a man to stand trial in the Supreme Court for the rape of a child that occurred in 2005.
Blaze destroys ‘shanty town’ off Fire Trail Road
OFFICIALS are investigating the cause of a blaze that destroyed at least 10 wooden structures in what police believe was a shanty town off Fire Trail Road.
A first for Bahamas in key United Nations role
TISHKA Francis has become the first Bahamian to be elected as vice chair of the United Nations General Assembly’s (UNGA) Second Committee during its sixty-ninth annual session.
Woman convicted of boyfriend’s stabbing death faces sentence delay
A WOMAN’S sentencing for her boyfriend’s stabbing death has been delayed by another three weeks.
FNM MPs criticise Dr Nottage over comments on crime
TWO FNM MPs who represent areas that have seen murders this week criticised National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage for his “seemingly dismissive” comments on crime.
Archdeacon Palacious calls for a national family planning programme
ARCHDEACON James Palacious yesterday called on the government to implement a national family planning programme and employ guidance counsellors and truancy officers to “double” the government’s preventative efforts towards crime.
Hundreds of police officers promoted
NEARLY 600 Royal Bahamas Police Force officers have been promoted in a widespread exercise.
‘A miracle’ that man survived bee attack
KEVIN Johnson is lucky to be alive after being viciously attacked by a swarm of killer bees which had been disturbed by noise from a tractor in the area of West Sunrise Highway, Grand Bahama, on Tuesday morning.
Humane Society reminds public to keep pets safe on Halloween
BAHAMAS Humane Society officials are reminding the public to keep their pets safe and secure during Halloween, explaining that during this time of year most animals are “frightened by fireworks”.
BEC bills won't show 25% oil price decline
Hard-pressed Bahamian energy consumers will not reap the benefits from a 25 per cent drop in global oil prices because BEC’s fuel supplier has it “by the balls” over its $130 million debt.
'Tum Tum' looks to make a name for himself in NCAA
He has been highly touted with lofty expectations since he arrived in East Lansing, Michigan, and now Bahamian freshman point guard Lourawls “Tum Tum” Nairn is prepared to fulfil that promise.
Buddy, Sooners have sights set on Battle 4 Atlantis title
IT IS set to be a special year for junior guard Buddy Hield as he seeks to lead the Oklahoma Sooners back to the NCAA tournament.
Auto dealers fear VAT 'perfect storm'
Bahamian auto dealers yesterday said they feared Value-Added Tax (VAT) would combine with a flat economy to create “another perfect storm”, with new car sales still 45 per cent below their 2007 peak.
'Changing night to day' easier than VAT prices
The Government’s insistence on Value-Added Tax (VAT) inclusive pricing will create “unnecessary work” for Price Control as well as the retail industry, a leading operator saying yesterday: “We could change night into day easier than this.”
Fisheries chief: Visiting boaters cost us millions
A leading fisherman yesterday gave his “100 per cent” backing to Eric Carey’s comments over the economic contribution of visiting boaters, charging that the Bahamas was losing “millions of fisheries dollars” to Florida day-trippers alone.
Bahamas' 'dangerous' fall in Business ease rankings accelerates
The Bahamas’ “disturbing and dangerous trend” of falling in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings accelerated yesterday, with this nation slumping another 13 places to 97th spot - dropping into the world’s bottom half.
Latest murder victim was shot while riding his bicycle
THE country’s murder count for the year inched closer to 100 following a shooting in Adderley Street, Fox Hill Tuesday night that left a 38-year-old man dead.
Bahamian engineers told to seek more foreign JVs
Bahamian companies should seek foreign joint venture partnerships to present a more “complete package” to Government when bidding on contracts, a leading Bahamian engineer said yesterday, suggesting this was an area where many were ‘falling down’.
Playoffs in full swing for Bahamian football players in Canada
PLAYOFF football is in full swing for Bahamian players on the gridiron in their respective leagues in Canada.
Nassau Rowing Club makes Bahamas debut at world's largest rowing race
A BOAT representing the Nassau Rowing Club plied the waters of the Charles River at the 50th running of the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta, the world’s largest rowing race, on Sunday, October 19.
National Basketball Referee/Table Official Clinic to shed light on new rule changes
IN an effort to bring the basketball fraternity up to date on the new rule changes, the Bahamas Basketball Federation is scheduled to hold its National Basketball Referee/Table Official Clinic at the AF Adderley Gymnasium this weekend.
Domestic counter to US conch exports ban
Bahamian fishermen said yesterday that while there was “concern” over a potential ban on Queen Conch exports to the US, domestic consumption should mitigate any shortfall.
Anatol Rodgers senior boys get 3rd place trophy in pre-season basketball tournament in Marsh Harbour
IN preparation for what they expect will be a much better regular season, the Anatol Rodgers Timberwolves took two teams to participate in the preseason basketball tournament in Marsh Harbour, Abaco where their senior boys returned with the third place trophy.
Temple Christian basketball tournament in its fifth edition
IN a few short years, the Temple Christian Suns basketball tournament has been established as one of the top preseason tournaments for primary school basketball programmes in New Providence.
Wednesday, October 29
‘Be vigilant of anyone posing as police officers’
ASSISTANT Police Commissioner Leon Bethel yesterday warned Bahamian residents to be vigilant of persons posing as police officers.
Take hold of yourself!
By Canon S Sebastian Campbell
Resorts World: Project sparks new businesses
Resorts World Bimini says its project has led to the opening of several new business ventures on the island.
Bahamian realtor acted for China in Hilton deal
A Bahamian real estate firm, Cross & Mosko Real Estate & Development Company, represented China State Construction America (CCA) in its purchase of the British Colonial Hilton hotel.
Not just 'any old thing'
Almost anyone involved, in, or interested in, art has heard someone say: “Art is everything.” Is it really? Can everything or anything be art? Are there limits to what is acceptable and who decides? These are probably the most debated and discussed questions among designers, artists, collectors and art historians.
Anglican Chorale celebrates ninth annual festival of hymns and anthems
UNDER the patronage of the Bishop Laish Boyd, Sr, and Boyd, the Anglican Chorale will be presenting its ninth annual Festival of Hymns and Anthems at Christ Church Cathedral, George Street, on Sunday, November 16. The concert starts at 4pm and admission is free; an offering will be taken.
Entrepreneuer meets US embassy official
A Bahamian entrepreneur this week paid a courtesy call on the US Embassy’s charg� d’affaires, Lisa Johnson, following his recent participation in the US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Programme.
Are you being attacked in your dreams?
By KEVIN EWING
BICA involved in anti corruption meetings
The Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) has been involved in a series of meetings over follow-up mechanisms for the Implementation of the Inter-American Convention against Corruption (MESICIC).
BICA participates in financial crime risk assessment
The Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) participated in the Money Laundering/Terrorist Financing National Risk Assessment workshop at the Melia Nassau Beach Hotel.
Bahamian gospel singer celebrates international success
ALREADY successful in the Bahamas, gospel singer Ricardo Clarke is now garnering international attention with his hit single “Don’t Count Me Out”. Over the past year, the song has been playing on radio stations in 20 countries outside of the Bahamas; primarily the US, UK, Canada, France, Russia, Australia and Japan.
Feeling safe
By REV ANGELA PALACIOUS
Government considering pedestrianising Bay Street
TOURISM Minister Obie Wilchcombe said the government is considering pedestrianising Bay Street as it strategises about revitalising the tourist hotspot and looks to increase visitor arrivals.
Minister: ‘No Govt cover-up’ over Rubis station gas leak
THE government is considering hosting a town meeting for Marathon residents to address “unnecessary fears” over the underground gasoline leak at a nearby service station, Environment Minister Kenred Dorsett revealed yesterday.
Man in hospital after attack by bees
A SOUTH Bahamia man is recovering in hospital after he was attacked by bees yesterday morning in the area of West Sunrise Highway. Passing motorists watched in horror as the man lay helpless on the ground covered by the swarm.
FNM Chairman says BTC bonus leaks ‘a deflection attempt by PM’
FREE National Movement Chairman Darron Cash yesterday labelled the leaked reports of bonus payments at the Bahamas Telecommunications Company following its controversial sale to Cable and Wireless in 2011 a “deflection attempt” by the Prime Minister and the Progressive Liberal Party, adding that the $1.5m payments to executives were “well deserved”.
Record-breaking swimmer leaves hospital for a second time
AUSTRALIAN ultra-marathon swimmer Chloe McCardel was yesterday discharged from hospital in Nassau for a second time after reportedly being re-admitted at the weekend due to “weeping” wounds resulting from her world record swim from the southern tip of Eleuthera to New Providence last week.
Deputy PM says Bills will pass with or without wells
DEPUTY Prime Minister Philip Davis yesterday said he believed that the government will still be able to pass constitutional referendum Bills with or without the vote of Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells.
Nottage wants a focus on crime fighting strategies – not differences
AFTER two senior law enforcement officials last week gave “contradictory” comments on the status of sexual assault cases in the country, National Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday said the authorities should focus on crime fighting strategies, rather than “focusing on differences.”
TOUGH CALL: The rise and fall of Dr Arthur Porter
The unravelling of Dr Arthur Porter’s life didn’t begin in the Bahamas. But it could be considered to have ended here – more or less.
Two men in hospital after attacks outside nightclubs
TWO MEN are in serious condition in hospital after they were attacked in separate incidents outside local nightclubs on Monday night.
School boards are expanding to Andros, Abaco, Exuma, Eleuthera
EDUCATION officials are increasing the number of school boards around the nation from 49 to 54, expanding the operation to Andros, Abaco, Exuma and Eleuthera.
PM: Security of nation is threatened by Ebola
PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday warned shipowners of the “deleterious” effect a report or confirmed case of the Ebola virus would have on the country’s economy.
‘Only one service calling at Freeport Container Port comes from South Africa’
OF THE 75 to 80 vessels calling monthly at the Freeport Container Port, only one service comes out of South Africa, representatives of international health organisations and the Ebola Task Force were told by port officials during their weekend tour of the transshipment facility to observe safety protocols.
Cash warns Wells: Do not spite Bahamian women to get back at PM
FNM Chairman Darron Cash yesterday warned Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells not to “spite Bahamian women” in a bid to get back at the Prime Minister over the Letter of Intent controversy.
Shot dead at home defending parents
A 44-year-old man was shot and killed early yesterday morning attempting to protect his elderly parents from armed assailants, pretending to be police officers.
PLP disciplinary hearing on Rollins held
THE Progressive Liberal Party disciplinary committee established to decide the fate of controversial Fort Charlotte MP Andre Rollins last night concluded their hearings and will begin deliberating.
Forbes, Hilton named most valuable players
ARNETTE’S Sporting Lounge Hitmen’s ace pitcher Alcott Forbes and Sigma Wildcats’ first sacker Jeannette Hilton have been named the most valuable players for men and women respectively as the New Providence Softball Association’s Carl ‘Bang Bang’ Johnson’s best-of-seven championship series concluded in the Banker’s Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Stevens, Hitmen get ready for nationals
NOW that they have retained their New Providence Softball Association men’s championship crown, the Arnette’s Sporting Lounge Hitmen have one more goal in mind and that is to avenge their disappointing third place finish in the Bahamas Softball Federation’s National Championship last year.
Bulldogs advance to championship series
THE Fidelity Bulldogs clobbered Scotiabank 22-8 to advance to the Banker’s Softball League championship series. On Saturday in the Banker’s Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex, the other half of the chmpionship will be decided between the CIBC/FCIB and BAF.
Near rock-bottom renewable ranking 'speaks for itself'
The Bahamas’ continued near-rock bottom ranking among developing nations for renewable energy adoption “speaks for itself”, industry players said yesterday amid renewed calls for “clear” government policies to spark the industry’s growth.
Former NFL player Cobb urges students to make right choices
THE Sports World ‘Go Positive’ School Tour, featuring former National Football League player Michael Cobb, is now in high gear.
Champions Wildcats dance the night away
The Sigma Wildcats, regrouping with some players who played against them last year, brought out their dancing shoes as they celebrated their 4-2 series victory over the Sigma Brackettes in the New Providence Softball Association’s Carl ‘Bang Bang’ Johnson championship.
Man contests conviction, life sentence for murder of fast food restaurant manager
A MAN is now represented by a Queen’s Counsel as he contests a conviction and life sentence for murdering a fast food restaurant manager after seducing and robbing him.
Bahamian actor recognised as 'pioneer' in American film
THE first Bahamian actor ever to be captured on film is being recognised as a pioneer during a five-month long exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York City.
Three's a charm for Doongalik's ceramics exhibit
THE hard work and dedication of three emerging ceramics artists paid off when their first joint exhibit enjoyed a successful opening at the Doongalik Art Gallery last Thursday.
Cirque Fever to host unique circus event at BNT
THIS weekend, members of the Cirque Fever Junkanoo Carnival company will give the general public a sneak peek of what can be expected when the group hits the streets for the Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival in 2015.
Island Boy - The Musical
AUDITIONS for the 2015 “Island Boy – The Musical” stage production officially kicked off at the Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts last week.
Fam Fest 'best ever'
OF ALL the events in its 19-year history, this year’s Fam Fest was “the best one ever”, according to founder William Mark Cartwright. The three-day family festival is built on the foundations of Bahamian gospel music and clean fun. Due to a forecast of inclement weather it was held at the William Thompson Auditorium on Jean Street instead of Fort Charlotte.
Miss Cultural Bahamas 2014/15 crowned
AFTER months of hard work and preparation, Ambrosina Forbes was crowned the winner of the Miss Cultural Bahamas Pageant 2014/15.
'Lil Locals' brand re-emerges as winner of Absolut art contest
IN WHAT turned out to be a fateful coincidence, Bahamian artist and Lil Locals entrepreneur Anastasia Charlow started working on a wire sculpture inspired by the Absolut Vodka brand two years ago, long before news of the “Absolut Art Ambition” competition emerged and long before she participated and emerged victorious.
New edition of 'A Little Bahamian Cookbook' now available
BACK in 1989, local artist and art educator Sue Bennett-Williams was approached by the owner of Appletree Press in Dublin, Ireland, to create illustrations for a small cookbook that would be introduced as a part of a series.
Nygard footage subpoena granted
A US judge yesterday granted Louis Bacon and Save the Bays the authority they were seeking to subpoena ‘whistleblower’ video footage for use in their legal battles with Peter Nygard, leaving the Bahamian judicial system to determine whether this is “admissible”.
Gov't concern on conch export block decision
The Government yesterday voiced concern that Queen Conch exports could be threatened if the US declares them an endangered species, creating “significant social and economic hardship” for thousands of Bahamian and regional fishermen.
Nygard: Stem cell meeting 'fabricated'
Peter Nygard yesterday alleged that details of a June 2012 meeting with officials from the Prime Minister’s Office were “fabricated”, and that construction of a multi-million dollar stem cell facility at his Lyford Cay home was never discussed.
Anchorage levies cover just 30% of park costs
The Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) chief executive says he still “encourages” local government authorities to consult with local boaters about charging them anchorage and mooring fees, on the basis that any revenues raised would be spent for their benefit.
Minister's balanced reply to boating community row
The Tourism Minister yesterday attempted to dampen the row the Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) top executive has sparked with the boating community, acknowledging the sector’s importance while calling for greater management and policing of this nation’s marine resources.
Minister pledges food security
A Cabinet Minister yesterday pledged that the Government would not allow food unfit for consumption to enter the Bahamas, adding that products labelled ‘export only’ were done so purely for tax purposes only.
BTC, Port Authority force stronger ties
Relations between the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) were strengthened during a recent meeting of their top executives.
Halloween things to BOO!
THE time is here again for the ghosts, goblins and all manner of scaries to come out of hiding.
Tuesday, October 28
BREAKING NEWS: Fatal shooting in Fox Hill
Police have confirmed a fatal shooting tonight at Adderley Street, Fox Hill.
Charge Aly with sedition and other minor offences
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Team play to aid the 'rain maker'
More than a decade ago, when I returned home to manage a large company in the Bahamas, I learned what “doing my work” means. Generally, when you ask a Bahamian to do something outside of their regular office routine, they will resist you with every fibre of their being. The excuse often being that they are doing ‘their work’. This attitude is still very prevalent in the Bahamas, and has not been shaken due to hard times. Needless to say, it does not fit well with members of the marketing revolution because we are always trying something different.
Airport quality scores improve
Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) has for the third consecutive quarter been ranked among the top three airports serving between two and five million million passengers.
Baha Mar unveils top restaurant offerings
Baha Mar yesterday unveiled the first four signature restaurants for its planned culinary experiences.
Are we idiots?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Bahamian teen takes a 'risk' with fantasy novel
WHILE some students may be giving themselves a pat on the back for a good mid-term report last week, Alexis Ferguson is celebrating the release of her first fantasy fiction novel.
YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: In the wake of Ottowa shooting, Nassau needs to toughen up
THE Bahamas’ Parliament is wholly unsecure and Parliamentarians are seemingly unprotected in the precincts of both the House of Assembly and the Senate.
Man shot dead in home invasion
A 44-year old man is dead after he was shot multiple times early this morning in a home invasion in Blair Estates.
Protesters demand stiffer laws to protect children, vulnerable citizens
CIVIC groups Bahamas Against Sexual Violence & Child Abuse and Rise Bahamas took to Rawson Square yesterday demanding stiffer laws to protect the nation’s “children and vulnerable citizens” a week after a man was sentenced to five years in prison for the rape of six-year-old girl.
Man who died in plane crash was 88-year-old Texas native
POLICE have confirmed the American citizen killed when his small plane crashed on the island of Eleuthera as 88-year-old Coy Lee Austin.
Dominican men plead guilty to illegal fishing, get $1,000 fine
FOUR Dominican men were fined $1,000 yesterday after foregoing a trial and pleading guilty to illegal fishing in Bahamian waters.
Minister ‘excited’ by web shop regulation process
TOURISM Minister Obie Wilchcombe yesterday said the government is in the process of finalising when key elements of the new gaming legislation are to be implemented as web shops transition into regulated operations.
Fines against poachers in Bahamian waters ‘increased five-fold’
A “five-fold” increase in fines levied against poachers operating in Bahamian waters has been approved by Cabinet, Agriculture Minister V Alfred Gray confirmed yesterday.
Nottage calls for Bahamians to be ‘community leaders’
NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday called for Bahamians to be “community leaders” and to “move our country to the place in which we need to arrive” in the continuing war against crime.
POLITICOLE: The real problem that Bahamians have with illegal Haitian immigrants
THE story of the Bahamian national of Haitian parentage who lost his illegal home in a legal demolition has made its way across every form of local media, perhaps most of all social media, where people have dialogued on the verge of meltdown.
THE BRAIN DRAIN: College and university educated Bahamians choosing to move abroad
A REPORT in The Tribune’s Business section earlier this year said that almost two-thirds of college and university-educated Bahamians have moved abroad to seek jobs in developed countries, costing the nation a sum equivalent to 4.4 per cent of its annual gross domestic product.
Man wanted in US on drug charge to face extradition proceedings
EXTRADITION proceedings will go forward for a man wanted in the United States on a drug charge, a magistrate ruled yesterday.
26-year-old in custody over shooting death of Fox Hill man
POLICE have arrested a 26-year-old man for questioning in connection with the shooting death of a Fox Hill man on Saturday.
Govt defends sale of Hilton to Chinese
WHILE the Christie administration approved the sale of the British Colonial Hilton, it had no hand in selecting China State Construction Engineering Corporation to purchase the historic hotel and its adjoining property, Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe said yesterday.
Wells: PLP and country will see power of one MP
BAMBOO Town MP Renward Wells yesterday suggested that the Progressive Liberal Party and the country will see the “power of one MP” when the Constitutional Amendment Bills come to a vote in the House of Assembly.
Four men in custody after $118,000 of marijuana is seized
FOUR Bahamian men are in police custody in connection with the seizure of over $118,000 worth of marijuana early yesterday morning.
DR MINNIS ‘UNFAZED’ BY LORETTA CAMPAIGN
FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday said he was unfazed by the public campaign of contender Loretta Butler-Turner as time draws nearer to the party’s convention.
Sports in brief
THE Junior Baseball League of Nassau is slated to host its first US Embassy/JBLN/MLB Baseball Skills Clinic October 30 to November 2 at the St Andrew’s Field of Dreams.
Wildcats champions
The Sigma Wildcats, with an explosive fifth inning and a home run in both the sixth and seventh innings, finally closed out the New Providence Softball Association’s Carl ‘Bang Bang’ Johnson series as ladies’ champions.
'Pain' Major has fists set on return in December
A LITTLE short of one year since he has been in the ring, Meacher ‘Pain’ Major is gearing up for his return.
National basketball team standouts making presence felt across globe
SOME of the most prominent names in Bahamian basketball are adjusting well to their new surroundings in their respective leagues.
Bay St: 'Get on board or get out of the way'
An ex-Deputy Prime Minister yesterday said Perry Christie was effectively telling Bay Street stakeholders “to get on board or get out of the way” over Chinese plans to redevelop downtown Nassau, questioning whether the Government was trying to “socially re-engineer” the city.
Cancer rehabilitation Improving quality of life for patients
IT is believed by experts that when a cancer patient participates in rehabilitative exercises they have a better quality of life and can function at a higher level.
Financial coach encourages women to shift their money mindset
THROUGH HER firm Pearls of Wisdom Financial Coaching, financial coach Tishka Scott is encouraging Bahamian women to change their mindset when it comes to money.
'Go Positive Bahamas' tour hits Fox Hill Prison
FORMER National Football League player Michael Cobb, representing the American- based Sports World, made his first stop on the ‘Go Positive Bahamas’ Tour yesterday as he left a sterling message to a group of inmates in the medium security segment of Her Majesty’s Prison, Fox Hill.
'Good showing' at Judo World Juniors
EIGHT Bahamian athletes competed against those from 72 other countries at the Judo World Juniors tournament in Miami, Florida.
Trust chief in apology to ‘el cheapo’ boaters
The Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) top executive yesterday made an “unreserved apology” to international boaters infuriated by his comments that many of them were ‘el cheapo smoochers’, who this nation should not mourn if they “p..... off” when charged minimal anchorage/mooring fees.
Fishermen ecstatic over 'five fold' poaching fine increase
Bahamian fishermen were yesterday ecstatic that the Government is eyeing a ‘five-fold’ increase in fines levied on Dominican poachers, and is looking to prohibit foreigners from working on Bahamian fishing vessels.
Attorneys battle on Nygard stem cell development
Rival attorneys were yesterday battling over disclosures relating to Peter Nygard’s alleged efforts to construct a multi-million dollar stem cell facility in the Bahamas.
Court 'quashes' Commission probe into BISX firm's broker
The Securities Commission is appealing a court verdict that “quashed” its bid to assess the solvency of a BISX-listed company’s broker/dealer affiliate, which is embroiled in an ongoing $340 million fraud probe.
Gov't 'at finish line' over food safety laws
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Port regulatory trust 'spells potential chaos'
A businessman yesterday reiterated his warning that proposals to ‘split-off’ the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) regulatory functions into an independent trust “spell potential chaos”.
BAIC gives contract for GB Arts Centre
The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) has awarded Patrick McDonald Construction Company the contract to complete building and retrofitting work on the Grand Bahama Arts and Crafts Centre.
Bahamian attorney just misses top global spot
A well-known Bahamian attorney has narrowly missed being elected secretary-general of the International Bar Association (IBA).
Monday, October 27
Wisdom teeth woes
AS EARLY as the age of 15, and definitely between the ages of 17 and 25, the most complicated teeth arrive on the scene in the mouths of most people. These are called the wisdom teeth, or in most clinical settings, the third molars. There are usually four wisdom teeth present in the mouths of most adults.
Are you managing the cost of your stress tax?
By MICHELLE MILLER
Sexual violence: Why not take it seriously?
By DR IAN BETHELL BENNETT
Sandilands Rehab Centre raises awareness of dementia
By ALESHA CADET
Gov't 'at finish line' over food safety laws
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Baha Mar features on special stamps
Baha Mar has been selected as one of the ‘game changers’ in tourism during the unveiling of a series of special commemorative stamps honouring the 50th anniversary of tourism in the Bahamas.
Companies combine for anti-laundering seminar
The Nastac Group and Truth Technologies teamed up to conduct an anti-money laundering/counter-terror financing workshop for St James Bank & Trust Company.
Dental Health and Breast Cancer
By Donnette Sands
Dr Rollins loves to row
EDITOR, The Tribune.
INSIGHT: Danger - toxic hazard
Is the Bahamas really serious about environmental pollution and public health? Ava Turnquest, chief reporter, says the clamour to put lives before political posturing must grow louder.
A humane solution has to be found to the Haitian ‘problem‘
“Grant that I may not criticise my neighbour until I have walked a mile in his moccasins,” says an old Indian prayer.
Pastor calls for life sentences for ‘convicted child molesters’
A PROMINENT Bahamian pastor is calling for authorities to establish a minimum sentence of life imprisonment for “convicted child molesters” a week after a man was sentenced to five years in prison for raping a six-year-old girl.
Wells explains LOI signing to PLP council
BAMBOO Town MP Renward Wells told the National General Council of the Progressive Liberal Party on Thursday why he signed a $650m letter of intent with a waste-to-energy company, PLP chairman Bradley Roberts confirmed yesterday.
Turtle Power: Iterns take part in tagging exercises
TWO Bahamas National Trust interns have been learning about and helping to preserve endangered sea turtles by taking part in tagging exercises in Eleuthera.
Officials impressed by Grand Bahama’s Ebola safety protocols
OFFICIALS from the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization were in Grand Bahama yesterday to look at the safety protocols in place and to make recommendations to the Ebola Task Force.
Latest armed robberies bring month’s total to 30
POLICE yesterday said they were investigating three armed robberies that happened over the weekend with the number of reported instances of the crime totalling 30 for the month of October, according to The Tribune’s count.
Call for relocation of residents affected by underground gas leak
JOSEPH Darville, Grand Bahama Human Rights Association Vice President, yesterday called for the immediate relocation of residents affected by the underground gas leak at the Robinson Road Rubis service station.
Man shot dead on way to his friend’s funeral
ONE of the two men killed in three separate shootings over the weekend was on his way to the funeral of a friend murdered in the Yellow Elder community, police said yesterday.
American homeowner dies in Eleuthera plane crash
THE body of an American second homeowner was discovered on the shore of a beach in James Cistern, Eleuthera, still strapped to an aircraft seat after the plane he was piloting crashed, police said yesterday.
Concerns raised over sale of Hilton to Chinese company
OPPOSITION Shadow Minister for Finance Peter Turnquest believes the sale of the British Colonial Hilton and adjoining property to a state-owned Chinese company has concerning labour and foreign policy implications for the Bahamas.
Hitmen sweep Truckers to win title
THE Arnette’s Sporting Lounge Hitmen are the New Providence Softball Association men’s back-to-back champions as they capitalised on a controversial play with ace Alcott Forbes drilling a game ending walk-off solo home run.
STUDENTS QUEUE FOR HIV/AIDS TESTING AT BTVI
SCORES of students queued for a recent campus-wide HIV/AIDS testing at The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute, all in an effort to know their status and strengthen awareness of the deadly disease.
Local attorneys ignored in $8m land scam verdict
A Miami resident who defrauded investors of more than $8 million using a Rum Cay real estate scam has been found guilty by a US jury, despite an ‘army’ of Bahamian attorneys insisting that he had good title to the land.
Freeport regulation 'cannot be purview of two families'
Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) licensees strongly believe that Freeport’s regulation cannot be left to “the purview of a couple of families”, the island’s outgoing Chamber of Commerce president says.
'No point in crying over spilt VAT milk'
A well-known Family Island resort owner believes there is “no point in crying over spilt milk” on Value-Added Tax (VAT), even though it will impose “onerous” administrative demands on small hotels such as his.
$60m Hilton sale 'win-win for all'
The British Colonial Hilton was sold for a sum “in the ball park of $60 million”, Tribune Business was told, as its outgoing chairman described the deal as “a win-win for everyone”.
Landfill manager targets expansion to over 100 staff
New Providence’s landfill manager is making “good progress” with its operations, its chief executive telling Tribune Business the company was investing $7 million in the project and will likely increase its workforce to more than 100 by next summer.
Spanish Wells Bulldogs repeat as champions B team in 4-3 victory over Jordan Prince Williams Falcons
The Spanish Wells Bulldogs, splitting their team in two, repeated as the Bahamas Softball Federation’s Austin Knowles National High School Softball champions as the B team showed the A team how to do it.
Rolle begins offseason play in the ZBL League
FOLLOWING her historic promotion to the Women’s National Basketball Association, Waltiea Rolle began offseason play, like many other WNBA players, on the European circuit.
QC Comets take girls' title
THE Queen’s College Comets, behind the stellar performances of pitcher Dawayna Pratt, avenged their first two losses to the St Anne’s Bluewaves during the regular season of the BAISS to win the girls’ title in the Bahamas Softball Federation’s Austin Knowles National High School Softball Championships.
Sports Notes
THE Bahamas Softball Federation will crown its new men and women champions this weekend as the National Round Robin Tournament is held at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
Brackettes earn 17-15 victory over the Wildcats
THE defending champions Sigma Brackettes proved that they are not quite ready to give up their New Providence Softball Association ladies championship crown to the Sigma Wildcats.
Cargill eliminated in the round of 16
CHRISTIAN Cargill’s historic run at the ITA Atlantic Regional tournament came to an end for the William and Mary University freshman tennis star.
Sunday, October 26
Stingrays get 18-6 win over Jets, Pros top Warriors
WEEK two of the Commonwealth American Football League saw the defending champions move back into the win column, while the league’s newest team failed to take the field for the second consecutive week.
LPIA self-serve boost to travel experience
Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) has purchased 20 Automated Passport Control (APC) self-serve kiosks to enhance the customs process for eligible passengers departing its US pre-clearance facility, improving the overall passenger experience.
Tourism targets Canada via major ad campaign
The Ministry of Tourism hopes to further penetrate the Canadian market with the launch of an aggressive media campaign to promote the Bahamas brand and several direct flights into the archipelago.
BFSB announces award nominees
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) is celebrating the 14th anniversary of its Industry Excellence Awards programme at a Gala Awards Dinner on Friday, 14 November.
Registrar General's staff get insight into an Icon
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) recently led members of its Investment Condominium (ICON) Working Group in co-ordinating the third in a series of training programmes for the Registrar General’s Department.
China's downtown plans 'won't limit' Bahamians
By NEIL HARTNELL
Tourism monitors Ebola concerns
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Port hosts training workshops for VAT
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has served as host to the four-day Value Added Tax (VAT) training sessions that came to a successful close at the Pelican Bay Hotel.
AG: Cellular licence bid launch 'imminent'
By NEIL HARTNELL
Disappointed with Commissioner Ellison Greenslade
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Saturday, October 25
Man dies after plane crashes in bad weather
An American resident of Whykees Estates, Eleuthera has died after his plane crashed in bad weather.
Jamaican man on run after struggle with police
A JAMAICAN man is on the run after a short struggle with police at the Carmichael Road police station on Thursday.
Five separate armed robberies investigated
INVESTIGATORS are seeking the public’s help to solve five separate armed robberies that took place on Thursday.
Two men in hospital after shooting
TWO men are in critical condition and fighting for their lives in hospital after a shooting incident on Thursday night.
Chinese company buys the Hilton
THE China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) formalised its purchase of the historic British Colonial Hotel and adjoining property yesterday during a deal signing event that marked what government officials believe will be the catalyst for rejuvenating downtown Nassau.
Sundance revolutionises the 'Day Party'
A SHIP is sailing in to Nassau Harbour with passengers who have one goal in mind – to reach Nirvana Beach for the most revolutionary ‘Day Party’ held on New Providence to date.
Friday, October 24
Swimmer leaves hospital after record-breaking feat in Bahamas
CHLOE McCardel, the Australian ultra-marathon swimmer who recently swam nearly 80 miles from the southern tip of Eleuthera to New Providence, has been released from the Princess Margaret Hospital and is recuperating in a hotel, The Big T can confirm.
Swimmer leaves hospital after record-breaking feat in Bahamas
CHLOE McCardel, the Australian ultra-marathon swimmer who recently swam nearly 80 miles from the southern tip of Eleuthera to New Providence, has been released from the Princess Margaret Hospital and is recuperating in a hotel, The Big T can confirm.
Bell concerned by rapes spike
STATE National Security Minister Keith Bell yesterday stood by his earlier comments that there has been a recent spike in rapes, but insisted that Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade was correct when he told reporters that the overall reported cases of the crime are down.
Minister affirms November 1 changes
HAITIAN nationals with a claim to Bahamian citizenship may be given additional time to allow for processing delays for documents once new immigration policies come into effect next month, Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said yesterday.
Training under way on Ebola protective equipment
EMERGENCY Medical Services professionals in New Providence got a chance yesterday to try on the personal protective gear they will be required to wear if they have to deal with an Ebola patient.
PM congratulates Sir Durward on Olympic medal anniversary
PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday put aside “political differences” as he congratulated veteran sailor Sir Durward Knowles on the 50th anniversary of his winning the Bahamas first Olympic gold medal.
Straw Market turns pink
THE Straw Market turned pink yesterday as vendors and market organisers worked to bring awareness of breast cancer by decorating the market to reflect the “true colour of awareness”.
STAR SAILORS HONOURED
IT was 50 years ago that Sir Durward ‘Sea Wolf’ Knowles and Cecil Cooke brought international glory to the Bahamas with their gold medal performance at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan. Yesterday, the memory was relived in the recognition by the Bahamas Government and the Bahamas Olympic Committee in a “Golden Anniversary” luncheon.
Through the rain to bring help to those in need
TWO dozen employee volunteers of the British Colonial Hilton weathered rainy conditions yesterday as they hit the road for an extensive food and clothing distribution exercise.
No early VAT, as store eases concern
A LOCAL retail store chain yesterday moved to allay the concerns of customers that it was prematurely adding value added tax to the pricing of its items ahead of VAT’s implementation on January 1, 2015.
PM 'filmed' discussing Nygard Cay construction
Prime Minister Perry Christie and government officials have been videotaped meeting Peter Nygard at his Lyford Cay home and discussed construction activities at the property - the same activities that are being challenged as unlawful in two separate court actions.
Romanian accused of ATM hack asks for bail
A ROMANIAN accused of having a hand in the recent hacking of bank automated teller machines appeared in the Supreme Court yesterday seeking bail.
PM urges co-operation from shipping community over Ebola
PRIME Minister Perry Christie has asked the Grand Bahama shipping community to co-operate fully with the government in its efforts to ensure that arriving vessels are first cleared by health officials for Ebola.
Fraud accused faces more charges
A WOMAN awaiting trial for more than two dozen fraud related charges was back in Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of more crimes.
Signs to be placed on new Bimini heritage trail this month
A HERITAGE trail is being set up on Bimini.
Bahamas lacks 'social maturity' to accept Investor Citizenship
A Cabinet Minister believes the Bahamas lacks the “social maturity” to accept an Investor Citizen programme that would aim to attract the world’s wealthiest individuals to this nation and supply a major economic boost.
IDB project to unlock Andros's $260m 'capital'
The Government is seeking to develop a sustainable framework for unlocking Andros’s ‘natural economic capital’, which studies have suggested could deliver $260 million a year “in net economic benefits”.
Nygard conspiracy claim: 'rantings that defy logic'
Peter Nygard’s claims that two court actions challenging his construction activities are part of a wider conspiracy against him have been blasted as “rantings” that “defy all logic”.
Government to miss VAT registration goal
The Government will likely miss its November 30 target for registering all mandatory Value-Added Tax (VAT) paying businesses, a Task Force co-chair yesterday saying the process would not be completed until after the tax’s January 1 implementation.
CORRECTION
IN an article published in Thursday’s edition of The Tribune (Wells attends PLP disciplinary hearing for fellow MP Rollins) it was stated that Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells was present at a PLP disciplinary committee hearing on Wednesday night.
Exuma's airport must 'start from scratch'
By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter
THE GOLDEN VOYAGE: How The Tribune reported the Bahamas' first Olympic gold medal
Durward Knowles wins first Olympic race in Star class
'AS THE FORECAST FOR OLYMPICS WAS WINDY, CECIL HAD THE PERFECT BUILD'
UP until the 1964 Olympic Games, Sir Durward ‘Sea Wolf’ Knowles and Cecil Cooke were a formidable crew. You named the event in Montagu Bay and they won.
FIRST CECIL COOKE MEMORIAL JUNIOR REGATTA SET FOR MONTAGU BAY NEXT MONTH
AFTER watching the recognition heaped upon her deceased father, Sandra Cooke said she intends to keep his memory alive by hosting the first Cecil Cooke Memorial Junior Regatta over the weekend of November 1-2 at the Nassau Yacht Club in Montagu Bay.
SOFTBALL CLASSIC STARTS TOMORROW
THE Austin Knowles high school national championship softball classic will start tomorrow at the Banker’s Field in the Blue Hills sporting complex.
Trust chief: Anchorage fees must be nationwide
The Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) chairman has called for anchorage fees to be imposed in mooring spots throughout the Bahamas.
Thursday, October 23
WHY DO WE PUT UP WITH THESE BANKS?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
LORETTA IS A TEAM PLAYER
EDITOR, The Tribune.
CLUBS AND SOCIETIES:10/24/2014
Cycling Club Bahamas. - Upcoming Events:
BFSB unveils annual student essay contest
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has launched its Essay and Speech Competition, as part of the annual National Career Awareness Month (NCAM).
Briefly
IT’S always good when leaders tell the truth, especially if that wasn’t their intention. So we should be grateful to Leung Chun-ying, the Beijing-backed leader of Hong Kong, for blurting out the real reason pro-democracy demonstrators can’t get what they want: With open voting, “You would be talking to half of the people in Hong Kong who earn less than $1,800 a month. Then you would end up with that kind of politics and policies” — policies, presumably, that would make the rich less rich and provide more aid to those with lower incomes.
ETHICS IN PUBLIC SERVICE
EDITOR, The Tribune.
11,000 Water Corp customers sign up to e-notification
More than 11,000 Water & Sewerage Corporation customers have signed up for its electronic notification (e-Notification) system following a three-month joint promotion that it ran with the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC).
GB targets 35% air arrivals rise from new Canada services
Tourism officials are expecting a significant increase in visitors to Grand Bahama due to the introduction of new weekly direct flights from two Canada gateways.
Eliminating unethical workplace behaviour
The shifting moral structure in our nation - and globally - has been blamed for the rise in unethical behaviour at work. People seem unconcerned with following the rule of law in and outside their workplaces. Some place the blame on younger parents who appear to take child-rearing less seriously than the traditionalist generation.
Time to open the books - Bahamians want an accounting
A FRIEND of ours told us of an incident that occurred a few weeks ago to illustrate the depth of agitation in the community of government’s seemingly mindless spending of their taxes.
PM ‘will speak on LOI issue’
PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday said he has not spoken to Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells since he was fired as parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Works last week.
Confusion as police chief says rape figures down
RAPE statistics are trending downward compared to last year, Police Commissioner Ellison Greenslade said yesterday amid increased focus on reported instances of the heinous crime.
Shanty town resident apologises for comments
THE shanty town resident of Haitian descent whose “inflammatory” comments last week sparked outrage among many Bahamians said yesterday that he went into hiding because he feared death over the perceived threats.
‘Bahamas is prepared to tackle Ebola cases’
PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday insisted that the Bahamas is ready to tackle Ebola cases as he officially announced the task force appointed to spearhead preparedness in the event that the deadly virus arrives in the country.
Stung, tired and in hospital - but swimmer sets world record
ULTRA-marathon Australian swimmer Chloe McCardel carved her name into the history books early yesterday by swimming almost 80 miles unassisted from the southern tip of Eleuthera to New Providence – but spent the day in hospital as a result of severe jellyfish stings.
Who will be the king of sculling?
In every sport, dynasties are developed with teams and athletes dominating the competition over a period of time. Since the inception of the Sands ‘Man in the Boat’ Championships three years ago, Clayton Bain has emerged as the “king of the sculling competition.”
Meet Jimmy Mackey, a certified NASM master trainer
FROM the basketball court to the training room, Jimmy Mackey has found a new niche in life and he is hoping that his role as a certified National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) master trainer will be able to help more Bahamians to excel in all areas of their physical fitness.
Increased surveillance in Grand Bahama to watch for Ebola
HEALTH surveillance is being beefed up at the port and airport in Grand Bahama as international efforts to contain and prevent the spread of Ebola continues in west Africa.
Man who died in police custody identified
POLICE have identified the man who died in police custody over a month ago as Oral Pinder, a 55-year-old from St Margaret’s Road.
Bahamas staff kept in lockdown after Canada shooting
THE BAHAMAS High Commission in Canada was under lockdown for several hours following a suspected terrorist shooting in downtown Ottawa yesterday.
COB study reaction: 'Culture condones men being in charge'
BAHAMAS Crisis Centre Director Dr Sandra Dean-Patterson is not surprised by the conclusions of a new College of the Bahamas study showing that 58 per cent of high school boys in a recent survey believe men should discipline their female partners.
$40m investment drops ex-Royal Oasis manager
A $40 million private island resort project targeting the Exuma Cays believes it will create around 200 construction, and 50 full-time, jobs, having dropped the management company initially tapped to operate the property.
Man pleads guilty to $20,000 worth of marijuana
A MAN was spared an immediate prison sentence yesterday after he pleaded guilty to possession of $20,000 worth of marijuana.
Robbery investigated
GRAND Bahama Police are investigating a robbery in the Polaris Drive area where a woman was pushed to the ground by a masked man and robbed of an undetermined amount of cash.
On Da Hook
THE Wahoo and Mahi bite has been very active this week with reports coming in from Bimini, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Eleuthera and Nassau of good catches and exciting fishing.
Pair accused over $1m drug seizure denied bail at court hearing
TWO men were denied bail yesterday after being arraigned in connection with a $1 million drug seizure in Acklins.
Rollins appears before PLP disciplinary committee
FORT Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins appeared before a Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) disciplinary committee for the second time last night.
King of the Grill Fest
ON National Heroes Day this year, all roads led to Adelaide Village where the Anglican Church Men (ACM) of St James Parish hosted their ninth annual Father R F Anthony Roberts’ ‘King of the Grill’ Fest.
Cabinet Minster: legal profession must 'open up'
A Cabinet Minister yesterday made a renewed appeal for the Bahamian legal profession to open up to specialist foreign firms, arguing this was essential to grow the financial services industry’s business volumes.
BFR implores government to go with VAT 'exclusive' pricing
The Bahamas Federation of Retailers (BFR) has said that VAT “exclusive” pricing, as opposed to VAT “inclusive” pricing, is essential to the success of the government’s attempt at reforming the existing tax structure.
Airport overhaul set to cost $185m
The Government is estimating that a $185 million investment is necessary for a “complete overhaul” of all the Bahamas’ 28 airports, with only six identified as key ‘port of entry’ gateways that can be economically sustainable.
Automatic tax exchange 'fundamentally flawed'
A Cabinet Minister yesterday said current proposals for the global automatic exchange of tax information are “fundamentally flawed”, and would impose “impossible obligations” on the Bahamas.
DC Pratt set for 2nd round of training in Thailand
AS he looks to relocate in an effort to perfect his Muay Thai craft, DC Pratt is set to make his trek to Thailand for the second time this year to undergo elite level training in the sport.
Officials call of game 3 because of rain
FOR the second night in a row, mother nature took centre stage in the New Providence Softball Association’s Carl ‘Bang Bang’ Johnson best-of-seven championship series.
Bahamian tennis ace making his presence felt at the ITA Atlantic Region Championship
BAHAMIAN tennis ace Christian Cargill is making his presence felt as a freshman and is having an immediate impact on the William and Mary Tribe men’s tennis programme.
'Golden Anniversary' celebration today in honour of Sir Durward, Cooke
THE Bahamas Olympic Committee is expected to entertain more than 400 people in the Imperial Ballroom at Atlantis Paradise Island today as they honour Sir Durward ‘Sea Wolf’ Knowles and the late Cecil Cooke 50 years after they won their country’s historic first Olympic gold medal.
Wednesday, October 22
A Mental Revolution
YOU must have heard the story of a woman cutting off the edge of a leg of ham every time before boiling. She did it because her mother did it, who did it because her mother did it.
Take up Thy Bed: Coping with grief
By Allison Miller
'Brand Bahamas' needed to make Asian inroads
By NEIL HARTNELL
PMH - a national political disgrace
EDITOR, The Tribune.
An opportunity squandered
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Passing the buck
EDITOR, The Tribune
Unaccountability at the Public Accounts Committee
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Unseat the spirit of Delilah
By Kevin L A Ewing
Highway Church Of God Ladies host convention
THE Ladies Department of the Highway Church of God (Bahamas) this week met in the National Ladies Convention under the theme “Faith to Overcome” at the historic Church of God Temple located KD Josey Way and Crooked Island Street.
GB Chamber unveils its award nominees
The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce will recognise businesses and entrepreneurs who have demonstrated commitment to community building at the this Saturday’s fifth annual Business Excellence Awards ceremon at the Regency Theatre.
The FNM dilemma
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Weaving a design for web and print
Designing for print media, as opposed to designing for the Internet, can be a completely different experience. To better understand these differences, each has to be viewed through areas such as types of media, audience, layout, colour, technology and careers.
Pray always and do not lose heart
“PRAY always and do not lose heart” (Luke 18:1) is a direct word from the Lord for every generation. It is a reminder that this is the way to cope with the unexpected, the predictable and the overwhelming circumstances of life. If an unjust judge will succumb to the persistent requests of a desperate widow, how much more will a loving and just God respond to the desires of those whose petitions are in keeping with God’s holy will. We have to keep the faith and believe that a delay in the delivery is not a denial of love and care for us. Will the Son of Man find faith on Earth when he comes? If we, who are supposed to be Christians, keep the faith the answer to Jesus’ question (Luke 18:8) will be yes.
Tourism official: target key markets for Exuma airlift
By NATARIO McKENZIE
BTC chief calls for an Internet Exchange Point
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) chief executive has urged the Government to lead the way in making the Bahamas a regional hub for information and communications technology (ICT).
St Michael's Methodist Church celebrates 50 years
“A community church...a family church...a church with dynamic preaching...a progressive Methodist church.” These are all descriptions and other salutary comments that have been made to describe St Michael’s Methodist Church in Chippingham.
Grand Bahama tourism sector educated on VAt
Tourism-related businesses throughout Grand Bahama gathered at a Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) facilitated Value-Added Tax (VAT) workshop in Freeport on Monday.
Single mother spreads love with 'Cross My Heart Ministry'
By ALESHA CADET
Exuma Chamber of Commerce president suggests govt subsidised flights from US
BY NATARIO McKENZIE
Financial services award judges meet
The Blue Ribbon Panel appointed to determine the winners for the 2014 financial services Industry Excellence Awards has held its first meeting to consider the nominations.
Voters regretting their choice
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Woman stabbed in fight with two other women
A WOMAN is in hospital after she was stabbed during a fight with two other women, police said. The incident occurred just after 7pm on Monday.
Residents concerned for 20 years over fuel spills
CONCERNS over fuel spills from the service station at Robinson Road and Old Trail Road intersection remain unanswered after more than 20 years, according to area residents.
Australian finishes marathon swim in Bahamas
NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Dehydrated and exhausted, Australian swimmer Chloe McCardel successfully completed a 78-mile (126-kilometer) swim Wednesday between two islands in the Bahamas.
Shootings on the increase
THERE have been 44 reported shootings since September 1 to October 21 – 12 of which have added to the country’s murder count, according to The Tribune’s analysis of the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s daily crime reports yesterday.
Drug agency chief sues auditor over PHA report
THE acting director of the Bahamas National Drug Agency has sued accountant John Bain and his firm, UHY Bain & Associates, over allegations made about him in a forensic report into the Public Hospital Authority’s supply of pharmaceutical drugs and medical supplies.
Murder victim was wearing an electronic ankle bracelet
ONE of the country’s latest murder victims was out on bail and wearing an electronic monitoring ankle bracelet, Supt Paul Rolle said yesterday.
Man found dead as 100 Haitians detained
ONE Haitian died and more than 100 other migrants were apprehended by Royal Bahamas Defence Force marines in the Exumas yesterday morning.
Shanty town resident’s outburst condemned by Haitian embassy
THE Haitian Embassy in Nassau has condemned “irresponsible rhetoric” made by a shanty town resident of Haitian descent last week which many observers saw as threatening.
PLP veteran dismisses Wells’ quit threat
FORMER PLP Cabinet Minister George Smith yesterday shot down Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells’ resignation threat saying that he did not have the political clout to “stand on a bully pulpit and talk tough”.
New carnival group builds its 'Empire of Love'
A NEW carnival group is inviting Bahamians to be a part of its “mighty love empire” in an effort to showcase the myriad of talent that exists in the country at next year’s inaugural Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival.
Inaugrual leadership summit next week
AN inaugural leadership summit in Nassau next week is aiming to inspire the community to “do more and talk less” in addressing social issues and ills in the Bahamas.
Vibes On The Island: Sandals raises money for teenage mothers with reggae concert
SANDALS is the place to be this Saturday when the luxury all-inclusive resort hosts its second annual Vibes On The Island concert.
HD Boyz tackle 'Beast of Beats'
A HUGE opportunity awaits the Bahamian group The HD Boyz when they participate in the “Beast of the Beats” competition next month.
The evolution of youth: EEVO Bahamas celebrates its launch
WITH a focus on fostering an environment where young adults can evolve, a new programme called EEVO Bahamas recently held its official launch event at the British Colonial Hilton.
SEC: Broker discovery objections ‘baseless’
US regulators have blasted a former Bahamian broker/dealer and its principal for allegedly using “baseless legal restrictions” to explain why they cannot produce documents relevant to their ongoing New York legal battle.
Peeping Tom convicted of indecent behaviour
FREEPORT – A man who is accused of peeking into windows and masturbating was convicted in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court of indecent behaviour, trespassing, and vagrancy.
19TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL FESTIVAL
SAMPLING the foods and beverages of faraway places, mixing and mingling with other cultures, and just having a great time overall was what hundreds of Bahamians experienced last weekend at the 19th Annual International Cultural Festival.
Hilton staff reaches out to help those in need
MORE than two dozen volunteers from the British Colonial Hilton Nassau rolled up their sleeves and got down to work at The Salvation Army, Mackey Street yesterday as Hilton Worldwide’s third annual Global Week of Service got underway.
Comets earn wins
THE Queen’s College Comets made quick work of the Charles W Saunders Cougars yesterday thanks to a fine performance by starting pitcher Daalan Adderley. The Comets needed only three innings to tame the Cougars 14-4.
Exploring the Party Impulse
THEY are known as some of the most prolific hitmakers in the Bahamas, and now Dillon “D-Mac” McKenzie and MDeez are joining forces to launch a one-of-kind nightclub experience for mature party-goers.
Celeste Marshall to represent the Bahamas at the 2015 'Top Model Of The World' pageant
The date has been set and it’s official, former Miss Bahamas Celeste Marshall will be travelling to China next year to once again represent the Bahamas on the international pageant stage.
Witness no-show delays gambling trial of 71-year-old
WITNESSES did not show at the Magistrate’s Court yesterday for the trial of a Bahamian entertainer accused of allowing his bar to be used as a place for gaming.
Mixed feelings in Grand Bahama over FNM battle
WHILE many Free National Movement supporters in Grand Bahama are reserving their comments over the leadership battle, some believe that Loretta Butler-Turner’s decision will deepen democracy in the party.
Questions raised over fishermen's marriages
A MAGISTRATE yesterday expressed concern for the “red flags” raised from the marriage certificates and spousal permit applications of four Dominican men seeking bail ahead of a trial for illegal fishing.
Captain and crew in harmony
In the words of his children, Sandra and Charles, the accolade for their father, the late Cecil Cooke, is long overdue.
SAC shocked by Comets
THE last unbeaten record in BAISS senior girls softball has fallen after the Queen’s College Comets shocked St Augustine’s College 11-7 yesterday.
Vendetta Group rocks the crowd at Cultural Festival
THE Vendetta Group took over the stage at the International Cultural Festival over the weekend, performing numerous songs that had the crowd moving and dancing.
Nygard names FNM in alleged conspiracy
Peter Nygard’s US attorneys have alleged that two Judicial Review actions challenging construction activity at his Lyford Cay home are part of a wider conspiracy involving the Free National Movement (FNM).
Sandyport resort's 14% occupancy rise
Sandyport’s existing report has enjoyed a 14 per cent year-over-year occupancy increase for 2014 to-date, its developer yesterday telling Tribune Business: “We’re feeling bullish about Bahamian tourism.”
Dingman out of Sandyport
Jamie Dingman and his investor group are no longer operating Sandyport’s beach restaurant, Tribune Business can reveal, just months after the highly-touted signing of their lease.
Sports in brief
ANTON Sealey has been returned as the president of the Bahamas Football Association.
Rain washes away game three
GAME three of the New Providence Softball Association’s Carl ‘Bang Bang’ Johnson Memorial Championship series got rained out last night in the Banker’s Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.
New Chamber chairman: 'I hope Myers' name cleared'
The Tax Coalition’s remaining chairman yesterday said it will continue to push for fiscal responsiblity and freedom of information despite Robert Myers’ resignation, adding that the Government was still placing too much focus on taxes.
Tuesday, October 21
NICOLE BURROWS: Do Bahamian politicians really want to keep the people ignorant?
There is a school of thought in public and private circles in the Bahamas that says our political leaders make the decisions they do and act out those decisions in certain objectionable ways because they believe the Bahamian people are ignorant and they want to keep them ignorant and oppressed.
Gov't pension liability is a 'ticking timebomb'
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Gov't unveils National Maritime Policy talks
By NEIL HARTNELL
Company changing road upkeep 'modus operandi'
Caribbean Pavement Solutions, a subsidiary of Bahamas Striping Group of Companies, has introduced a product to rejuvenate asphalt surfaces to this nation.
Is BTC really the nation's once more?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Ministry to empower youths to make positive choices
FOR the second consecutive year, Sports World Ministry is bringing its Go Positive Tour to the Bahamas.
The celebrity within your financial reach
When I was a child, I thought that if you owned a business you were automatically rich. And that if you appeared in the newspaper or television for something good, you were automatically famous and rich.
Briefly
‘Access Granted’
NIB payouts to soon exceed contributions
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Make Government House the People's House
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Atlantis signs on to Autograph Collection
The Atlantis resort has formally joined Marriott International’s Autograph Collection, and been added to the hotel stays that can be booked through Marriott.com.
Truly confident over Ebola?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Phat Groove All Star Comedy JAM
ALL THOSE in search of a good laugh last Saturday headed on down to the National Centre for the Performing Arts on Shirley Street for a night of comedy entertainment
Not enough notice
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Bowe becomes Chamber chair
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) has named Gowon Bowe as its new chairman, after accepting the resignation of his immediate predecessor, Robert Myers.
Engaging your dreams
THERE are no rules and no restrictions for your imagination when it comes to the brand new wedding related website entitled “Engage”.
HOME ARE THE HEROES
Durward Knowles and Cecil Cooke arrived home to a heroes welcome as Bahamians thronged to greet the country’s first Olympic champions following their victory in the Star class sailing at the Tokyo Games 50 years ago today. It is a feat which will be recognised on Thursday at a gala lunch hosted by the Bahamas Olympic Committee. As part of The Tribune’s series this week marking the anniversary Knowles describes the emotional journey from atop the Olympic podium to being feted in Nassau...
Rollins faces PLP committee
EMBATTLED Ft Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins appeared before a Progressive Liberal Party disciplinary committee last night, accompanied by lawyer and former PLP Chairman Raynard Rigby.
UPDATED: Swimmer's record challenge
ARMED with only goggles, a swim cap and swim suit, Chloe McCardel yesterday morning set out on her world record-breaking attempt to swim the 80 miles from the southern tip of Eleuthera to New Providence.
Two held after $1 drugs find
TWO men are in custody after police caught them yesterday with more than 1,000lbs of marijuana worth an estimated street value of $1m.
Auditor says hospital is trying to discredit him
ACCOUNTANT John Bain yesterday dismissed the Public Hospital Authority and Bahamas National Drug Agency’s attempts to “discredit” his firm’s forensic audit of PHA’s supply of pharmaceutical drugs and medical supplies, accusing officials of raising a red herring and “attacking the messenger.”
Bell: Repeat offenders may be to blame for rise in rapes
STATE Minister of National Security Keith Bell yesterday said investigations into recent rapes reveal there is “a very strong possibility” that repeat sexual offenders are to blame for the spate of rapes in New Providence.
COB STUDY: 58% of boys believe men should discipline their female partners
FIFTY-eight per cent of high school boys and 37 per cent of high school girls participating in a recent academic survey believe men should discipline their female partners, according to a new College of the Bahamas study.
Prime Minister meets Ebola taskforce
A TASK force on the deadly Ebola virus, comprised of several government ministers and key personnel from various government departments, met yesterday at the Office of the Prime Minister, the government said.
Two murders in six hours
TWO men were killed in separate shootings yesterday which occurred less than six hours apart.
DR IAN BETHELL BENNETT: Gang violence in the Bahamas
OVER the last few months we have heard countless stories about young men from Step Street stealing, shooting, getting shot and being killed.
Effective mouth cleansing for adults
SUCCESSFUL care for the mouth all boils down to cleansing. This is as true for a healthy mouth as it is for an unhealthy mouth.
Myth: Milk causes acne
BUSTED: This is another misinterpretation. Milk doesn’t trigger acne or breakouts. It’s the hormones produced by cows that are found in milk that can actually overstimulate oil glands and cause overproduction of oil. As cows that give milk are pregnant most of their lives, the natural hormones that occur during pregnancy are found in the milk you drink.
Getting fit in the fight against breast cancer
IN HONOUR of persons who are fighting breast cancer in the Bahamas, Club One Fitness Centre has designated this entire week to bring awareness to breast cancer prevention.
Call to stop dredging plan for Coral Harbour
AN ENVIRONMENTAL activist branded the Christie administration’s plans for the Sandy Bottom Project, which will dredge the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s harbour to accommodate large vessels, as “disrespectful and absolutely disgusting.”
$358m penalty for fraud with Bahamas 'alter ego'
A US judge has imposed a $358 million fine on the perpetrators of an alleged multinational fraud that he found employed a BISX-listed firm’s subsidiary as its “alter ego”.
Commission targets repeal of Financial Provider Act
The Securities Commission is aiming to kickstart the process for drafting a replacement to the Financial and Corporate Services Providers (FCSP) Act before year-end, admitting it will be “challenged” to regulate so-called ‘cash for gold’ outlets.
Chamber chief: 'I won't give up on Oceania Heights'
The Exuma Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday pledged he would “not give up” his efforts to resolve the Oceania Heights dispute, as one of the development’s former owners renewed the verbal battle with his former clients.
$6.3bn developer shrugs off 'pot shots' on finance
The principal behind a proposed $6.3 billion development for east Grand Bahama yesterday shrugged off “pot shots” over whether he has the necessary financing, telling Tribune Business the funds are “sitting” in a Hong Kong bank.
Bank of Bahamas in ‘simultaneous’ AGMs
Bank of the Bahamas is aiming to hold annual general meetings (AGMs) for its 2013 and 2014 financial years simultaneously, as regulators yesterday pledged to address “gaps” and “grey areas” surrounding this issue.
BOC all set to host 'Sports Outlook 2014'
IN an effort to unite and develop the sporting community through a cross-section of ideas, two of the country’s leading sporting entities will host a gathering of the most influential persons within the demographic.
Crawfish yield off 30% from 'big hit'
Fishermen yesterday said the recent capture of two Dominican fishing vessels was proof the Royal Bahamas Defence Force could be effective in curbing poachers if given the necessary resources, as they revealed crawfish yields were down by up to 30 per cent.
Airline's Exuma cut back seasonal, not withdrawal
Silver Airways yesterday confirmed it is expecting to resume flights into Exuma in February 2015, adjusting its schedule to a seasonal service rather than a complete withdrawal as had been feared.
Falcons dismantle Cougars 17-8
IN A showdown between the top two Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools senior boys softball teams, Jordan Prince Williams (JPW) made a convincing statement against Charles W Saunders (CWS), the Falcons dismantling the Cougars 17-8 to record a seventh successive win this season.
Ferguson named 'Athlete of Week' for 2nd time this season
A STELLAR season on the gridiron continues for Bahamian defensive back Demetrius Ferguson and the St Francis Xavier X-Men.
Elite eight in Junkanoo Jam on Grand Bahama next month
WHILE the top men’s NCAA basketball programmes will flock to Paradise Island during next month’s Thanksgiving Holiday, simultaneously, women’s NCAA basketball will take centre stage in the nation’s second city.
Monday, October 20
Will Mt Fitzwilliam be ignored by the Press?
SINCE the release on Friday of the strict code of behaviour expected of the press when called to “cover” Government House, a jesting Bahamian wanted to know if we had indeed installed the Queen at Mount Fitzwilliam.
Divided they stand, united they could still fall
Next month, Free National Movement executives will go head-to-head for party positions at its convention. But FNM insiders say the party must look beyond next month, and its internal fights, and chart a united course that will help it win the next election. Tribune News Editor, Taneka Thompson reports . . .
Robberies investigated
By DENISE MAYCOCK
Wives show proof of marriage to Dominicans accused of illegal fishing
By LAMECH JOHNSON
Pre-school education for every four-year-old under new plan
By NICO SCAVELLA
Women honoured as Girl Guides celebrate
SIX women, who have made “stellar contributions” to the Bahamas Girl Guides Association, were honoured as the organisation opened its centenary celebrations with a rally at Government House on Saturday night.
Financial services in Beijing Landfall
The Bahamas’ latest Landfall financial services promotion arrived in Beijing on 13 October.
A parent's guide to chiropractic health
By THE BAHAMAS ASSOCIATION OF CHIROPRACTIC
Stem cells to treat blindness appear to be safe
LONDON (AP) — An experimental treatment for blindness that uses embryonic stem cells appears to be safe, and it improved vision in more than half of the patients who got it, two early studies show.
Saving young hearts
THE Heart Ball Committee is back and striving to save as many hearts of children as possible. Despite current economic challenges and imposing changes to the economy, the Heart Ball Committee recently met to plan their upcoming events. This group of dedicated volunteers give their time and efforts to raise funds to help repair the hearts of children. When committee members Zelia Bethell and Linda Lafleur, who also serves as treasurer, were asked why they do what they do, they replied as follows.
Arrivals rise 10 per cent to Family Islands
Foreign air and sea arrivals to the Out Islands increased by 10 per cent year-over-year between January and July 2014, according to the latest data from the Ministry of Tourism’s research statistics and scanning units.
Bahamas 'co-opts' Canada practices
A Canadian executive spoke to more than 100 Bahamian co-operative and credit union members this month as part of the Department of Co-operative Development’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
Gospel concert funds to help officer's cancer fight
GRAND Bahama Assistant Commissioner of Police Emrick Seymour yesterday presented funds raised from a gospel concert to a police reservist who is suffering from cancer to assist with his mounting medical expenses.
The deed is done
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Man convicted of receiving stolen property
By DENISE MAYCOCK
Man wanted in connection with armed robbery
By DENISE MAYCOCK
Grand Bahama Minister questions effects of industry on cancer rates
By DENISE MAYCOCK
No breach of FNM constitution
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Minnis doesn't know party rules
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Man awaiting work permit in court on gun charge
By LAMECH JOHNSON
Waste firm executive faces delay in court ruling on theft case
By LAMECH JOHNSON
Time to celebrate our first Olympic heroes
THIS week the country will officially commemorate the greatest achievement in Bahamian sports – the historic winning of the first Olympic gold medal.
Man dies while snorkelling
POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a European man while on a snorkelling trip to Rose Island yesterday.
FNM Chairman says response to Ebola threat is too 'laid back'
FREE National Chairman Darron Cash yesterday criticised the government’s response to the potential threat of an Ebola case as “laid back” given the enormous risk the disease poses for the country’s tourism-driven economy.
Neymour slams BEC management for oil spills
MANAGEMENT at the Bahamas Electricity Corporation’s Clifton plant continue to allow waste oil to spill out of containers and drain directly into the sea, according to former State Minister for Environment Phenton Neymour.
World record swim attempt from Eleuthera to Nassau underway
An Australian endurance athlete has started an attempt to achieve a world-record 80 mile swim in the open waters of the Bahamas.
Minister urges Bahamians not to give in to hysteria
POLICE and Immigration officials are investigating inflammatory remarks made by a shanty town resident during a demolition which were broadcast on ZNS last week, Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said yesterday.
Health concerns of residents still unanswered
MARATHON residents continue to live in fear for their health nearly two years after a reported 30,000-gallon gasoline leak at a nearby fuel station.
YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: More 'Lettergate' questions
The Renward Wells/Letter of Intent fiasco took another turn this week when the Cabinet office, late on Tuesday evening, released a statement that simply said that “the office of Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Urban Development (had) become vacant.” However, this terse statement could only be likened to a wonderfully choreographed piece of high-stakes politics at its sordid worst.
'No interviews' rule marks a change for the Governor General
GOVERNMENT House has announced that the Governor General “does not give interviews”, nor can members of the media interview anyone else inside Government House or on its premises during official functions.
Wildcats blow out Brackettes 12-2 to take 2-0 lead in championship series
THE New Providence Softball Association’s ladies defending champions Sigma Brackettes avoided getting shutout again, but they couldn’t stop the pennant winning Sigma Wildcats’ onslaught as they pulled off another abbreviated victory.
'I just see Carl if he was here, just how happy he would be'
STEPHANIE Meadows, still sobbing, was too overwhelmed to express her gratitude to the New Providence Softball Association for remembering her son.
$2m flagship Wendy's restaurant opens its doors
WENDY’S Bahamas has completed construction of its new $2m flagship restaurant on Pioneer’s Way, adding significant commercial value to the downtown area of Freeport.
Hitmen seal 10-9 walk-off victory over Truckers
RUDY Fox may not have come through as a clutch hitter so far for the Arnette’s Sporting Lounge Hitmen, but the Sting Truckers will remember why the versatile cricket player was slotted into their clean-up spot in the line-up.
Airline's $2.1m loan expansion 'milestone'
A Bahamian airline believes it has achieved “a major milestone” by obtaining a $2.1 million loan from an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) affiliate, which will enable its fleet to more-than-double in size.
Five armed robberies in 24 hours
POLICE are appealing for public assistance in finding the culprits behind five armed robberies that occurred in New Providence in under 24 hours over the weekend.
Two arrests over armed robbery
GRAND Bahama police have arrested two men in connection with an armed robbery that occurred on Friday on the East Sunrise Highway.
19 Cubans arrested by Defence Force
NINETEEN Cubans were arrested by Royal Bahamas Defence Force officers over the weekend, Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said yesterday.
Leadenhall wind-up is 'about 90 per cent finished'
The wind-up of the most recent Bahamian bank to be placed in court-supervised liquidation is “about 90 per cent done”, with a further $4 million dividend to creditors recently-approved.
Myers awaits Chamber's resignation acceptance
Robert Myers yesterday said he was waiting for the Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors to accept his resignation, amid increasing suspicions he had been ‘set up’ over his vehicle’s disputed valuation.
Freeport project's $575m 'sell-out'
A proposed Freeport residential resort development will have a total $575 million sell-out value based on phase one prices, its developer yesterday describing it as “the first project I’ve seen in 12 years that adds up”.
More Airlift on Exuma's 'front board' after Silver withdrawal
Attracting more airlift will be “squarely on the front board” for Exuma’s Chamber of Commerce, after the island was dealt a blow by Silver Airways’ seeming decision to cease service to it.
A perfect 6-0 season for the Hurricanes
IT was a perfect season for the Holland College Hurricanes football club, and now they set their sights on the postseason and successfully defending the Atlantic Football League’s Moosehead Cup.
Sunday, October 19
BHS to host to free distemper clinics
THE Bahamas Humane Society will host two free distemper vaccine clinics for dogs this week.
Quick action, Mr PM!
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Chairman's job to enforce the rules
Re: FNM Constitution Breached
Exuma outlook's speakers unveiled
The ninth annual Exuma Business Outlook will take place this Wednesday at Sandals Emerald Bay Resort, under the theme ‘Charting a Course for Growth in Exuma’.
Exuma private island resort gets go-ahead
By NEIL HARTNELL
Were we swung on election day?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Golf event aids workforce development
More than 20 sponsors donated $50,000 in cash and prizes to support the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) workforce development programmes, as 100 golfers teed off in its 16th annual golf Tournament.
CWC chief on meet BTC staffers tour
Marking a nine-month milestone in his first year as Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC) chief executive, Phil Bentley is leading a ‘getting to know you’ Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) ‘Team Talk Live’ visit that will bring him in touch with employees nationwide.
Bahamian realtor firm attends global summit
Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has participated in the 2014 Sotheby’s International Realty Global Networking Event, which brought together 1,500 members from 31 countries.
Minnis is not likeable enough
EDITOR, The Tribune.
CAFL season opens with intense rivalry
THE Commonwealth American Football League (CAFL) officially kicked off this weekend with a rematch of the last four Boil Fish Bowl championship games between the defending champions V8 Fusion Stingrays and the Orry J Sands Pros at DW Davis.
Saturday, October 18
Dominicans in court accused of illegal fishing
FIVE Dominicans with reported ties to the Bahamas found themselves back in Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of illegal fishing.
Public Hospitals authority officials hit back at auditors
PUBLIC Hospitals Authority (PHA) officials have blasted external auditors for failing to investigate whether recommendations raised in the six-year-old internal audit report used to substantiate their findings had already been implemented.
Bahamas holds off on Ebola travel ban
AS nations throughout the Caribbean impose travel bans and restrictions on foreigners who have moved through the Ebola-affected countries of west Africa, the Bahamas has decided not to close its ports at this time, government health officials said last night.
Friday, October 17
Junkanoo brings happiness but costs $10m in unwaged labour
JUNKANOO costs the country more than $10 million per year in unwaged labour and personal contributions, according to a new College of the Bahamas study.
When will Bahamians be instructed in Ebola protocols?
EARLIER THIS month, health officials assured the public that protocols were in place to adequately take care of an Ebola-infected patient should one arrive on our doorstep.
Customs swoop on suspected stolen and smuggled vehicles
AUTHORITIES have confiscated three high-end vehicles believed to have been stolen in the United States and smuggled here.
Bishop says gay marriage row is a red herring
CONCERNS that one of the government’s proposed Constitutional Amendment Bills will open the door to same-sex unions is “a red herring,” Anglican Bishop Laish Boyd said this week during his address at the 113th Anglican synod.
Woman raped in her home
A WOMAN was raped by a man who came to her home around 1am yesterday, police said.
Concern over BEC fuel spill
ENVIRONMENTALIST Sam Duncombe yesterday raised concerns about “serious health implications” and possible contamination of the water table following the leakage of fuel from a Bahamas Electricity Corporation line that runs from Clifton to the Blue Hills Power Plant.
PLP Chairman taunts Rollins over LOI threat
A PLP disciplinary committee is expected to rule on the fate of embattled Ft Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins by the end of the month, party Chairman Bradley Roberts said yesterday.
Fraud claims denied
THE Bahamas National Drug Agency has refuted allegations contained in a forensic audit into the Public Hospitals Authority that raises concerns that an official at the drug agency allegedly had ties to a “shell company” established hurriedly only to do business with the PHA.
Report blasted by managers
MANAGEMENT at the Public Hospitals Authority claim that the forensic audit conducted on its supply of pharmaceutical drugs and supplies did not follow best practice industry standards and exposed the agency to civil litigations, according to documents obtained by The Tribune.
Audit under fire: Officials reject claim of $10m missing funds
OFFICIALS at the Public Hospitals Authority have refuted an auditor’s findings that $10m in pharmaceutical inventory went missing last year, blaming the discrepancy on data entry errors that had already been corrected.
Girl Guides hold rally to start centenary party
THE Bahamas Girl Guides Association kicks off its centenary celebrations with a mass rally in the Upper Gardens of Government House tomorrow evening, at which the Governor General will be present.
Wildcats blank Brackettes 7-0
MARY 'Cruise’ Sweeting and the pennant winning Sigma Wildcats sent a strong message to the defending champions Sigma Brackettes.
Investors 'outraged' by lawyer's venture
Investors in the controversy-torn Oceania Heights development yesterday expressed “outrage” after this newspaper found that the attorney responsible for their land title woes has launched a business offering solutions to the exact same problems.
Sentence cut for woman who held drugs because she faced hard times
A BIMINITE, who blamed “hard times” for her decision to hold $19,000 worth of marijuana in her possession, had her sentence reduced by one quarter yesterday.
Murder convict granted extension over appeal
A FORMER fugitive has been granted an extension by the Court of Appeal to serve notice against his conviction for a murder that occurred nearly a decade ago.
Stiff competition in the 'Briland' regatta
THE 25th North Eleuthera Regatta hosted by the North Eleuthera Regatta Association October 6-13 marked the last event on the country’s 2014 regatta calendar.
Cable and Wireless 'investing heavily' in BTC
PHIL Bentley, CEO of Cable and Wireless, says the company is investing “heavily” in Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to improve its mobile reliability in the Bahamas.
Sports in brief
SMALL in stature but with a big heart, Ambrose ‘Cabbage’ Hanna was the forerunner of the great Bahamian triple jumpers. However, the sporting community mourns his passing after he died on Sunday, September 28. He was 89.
Two in hospitals after shootings
TWO men were left in hospital on Wednesday after being shot in separate incidents on Wednesday, police said.
Cancer survivor in pride of place on pink waste truck
BAHAMAS Waste is making the fight against cancer and raising awareness of the disease personal after unveiling its “big pink surprise” yesterday.
Top pitchers and batting champions take the spotlight
SIGMA Wildcats’ infielder Jeanette Hilton and Sting Truckers’ outfielder Lamar Watkins are the New Providence Softball Association’s 2014 ladies and men’s batting champions respectively.
Tank says judges' unanimous decision 'ridiculous'
SHERMAN ‘The Tank’ Williams said he threw enough “conch punches,” but was highly disappointed in the judges, calling it “ridiculous” after he suffered an unanimous 10-round decision to hometown favourite Joseph Parker at The Trusts Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand, on Thursday night.
Hitmen stun Truckers 13-3
ALCOTT Forbes was on top of his game and that made all the difference as the defending champions Arnette’s Sporting Lounge Hitmen stunned the pennant winning Sting Truckers 13-3 to snatch game one of the New Providence Softball Association’s best-of-seven Carl ‘Bang Bang’ Johnson championship series.
Sandals team on beach clean up
AFTER having to forego a cleanup for Coastal Cleanup Day 2014, a team at Sandals Royal Bahamian chose the day after National Heroes Day to make New Providence’s beaches clean once again.
Big Red Machine destroy Giants
For the second consecutive BAISS game the St Augustine’s College junior boys softball team needed only three innings to take out their opponents as “The Big Red Machine” destroyed St John’s Giants 11-1 yesterday.
Solomon's Mines probe of possible inventory theft
Police are investigating the potential theft of up to $700,000 worth of inventory from luxury goods retailer Solomon’s Mines, Tribune Business can reveal.
'Awkward spot' in City Markets pension talks
Hopes for a deal that would have settled the pension obligations owed to one group of City Markets beneficiaries faded last night, after the key parties reached an “awkward position” amid suggestions of renewed legal action.
Bahamas 'never had plan' to maximise FDI
The ability of Bahamian-owned businesses to leverage foreign direct investment (FDI) projects for their own benefit is “not where it should be”, a Cabinet Minister said yesterday, arguing that this nation “never had a strategy” to achieve this.
Carnival eyed Bird Cay for private island
Bird Cay in the Berry Islands is among the locations assessed by Carnival Cruise Lines for its own port/private island in the Bahamas, Tribune Business was told yesterday.
Thursday, October 16
The best answer to long-term sickness
During October, corporate Bahamas joins in celebrating, and commemorating, those whose lives have been changed as a result of cancer. We have worn our pink, participated in the fund raising walk-a-thons, and joined in the health talks.
Clubs and Societies 10/17/2014
Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association. - The BPA continues to be the voice for the Pharmacy profession in the Bahamas, and is the leading provider of Continuing Pharmacy Education in the Bahamas. Its members comprise of pharmacists, technicians, educators, and supply management personnel. The BPA has three local chapters, one in the Northern Bahamas (encompassing Grand Bahama and Abaco) and the remaining two based in New Providence, but inclusive of members in Eleuthera, and Exuma. The current membership is approximately 150 members. The BPA is a member of the Commonwealth Pharmaceutical Association (CPA) and the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists. Meetings are held monthly, and are available via video conference and webcast to members outside of New Providence.
Bahamas spreads 'trust' message through Asia
A team of financial experts and politicians represented the Bahamas at the Grand Hyatt hotel in Hong Kong for the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Asia conference on 8 October.
Be patient with our police force
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Maritime Authority officials tour port
Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) representatives have toured the Nassau Container Port (NCP) facility, getting an overview of its operations and how it integrates with government agencies such as Customs and Immigration.
FNM Constitution breached
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Fix parenting to tackle crime
EDITOR, The Tribune.
On a wing and a prayer: religious tourism takes off
By RICARDO WELLS
Man who ditched trousers guilty of firearm possession
A MAN whose bank card was found at the scene of a firearms seizure was convicted in Magistrates Court yesterday of a dozen firearms-related charges.
Missing trial transcripts delay appeal for men guilty of killing policeman
OUTSTANDING trial transcripts have delayed the attempts of three men to contest their convictions for the murder of a policeman by at least a month.
‘Why has PM not explained sacking?’
FREE National Movement Chairman Darron Cash is demanding that Prime Minister Perry Christie explain the circumstances surrounding Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells’ unauthorised signing of a $650m letter of intent with a waste to energy company that led to his firing as an official in a government ministry.
Fraud fears over citizenship bids
SOME 300 applications for citizenship were returned earlier this year due to suspicions that birth certificates were fraudulently issued from the civil registry, Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell revealed yesterday.
Sands aims to become FNM deputy leader
FREE National Movement Deputy Chairman Dr Duane Sands announced yesterday that he will run to become deputy leader of the FNM in next month’s highly anticipated party convention.
Government’s Ebola plan ‘not enough to safeguard the country’
FREE National Movement Deputy Chairman Dr Duane Sands said the Ministry of Health’s Ebola Preparedness and Response Plan is not enough to safeguard Bahamians in the event of an outbreak in the country.
Deputy PM satisfied with Wells being fired
WORKS Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday said he was satisfied with the decision to fire his former Parliamentary Secretary Renward Wells over the multi-million dollar letter of intent controversy.
Hospital auditor defends report
ACCOUNTANT John Bain yesterday defended a forensic audit into the Public Hospitals Authority which he had prepared, after FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis claimed that the audit contained “clerical errors”.
UPDATED: Miller says 5,000 gallons of fuel spilled by thieves
THE BAHAMAS Electricity Corporation lost more than 50,000 gallons of fuel yesterday when a man, illegally cutting fill off Carmichael Road, accidentally ruptured one of its main fuel lines with a backhoe.
VIDEO: Minnis takes the bus and shows his 'common touch'
FNM leader Dr Hubert Minnis was “caught” on camera getting off a jitney in Bay Street on Wednesday on his way to his office.
Man in hospital after shooting
POLICE are seeking the public’s help in solving a shooting that left a man in hospital on Tuesday.
PLP chairman blames Minnis for PHA failings
PLP Chairman Bradley Roberts yesterday blamed FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis for “systematic failures, irregularities and vulnerabilities” in the Public Hospitals Authority that Mr Roberts said the PLP now has to clean up.
'Significant risk' from VAT registrant doubling
The Government is taking “a significant risk” if it believes just 4,000 businesses will register for Value-Added Tax (VAT), a Tax Coalition co-chair yesterday predicting the number might be double that.
Acklins wins in culinary competition
AFTER a two-weekend tantalising culinary competition involving several islands, Acklins has emerged the winner of the Ministry of Tourism’s Taste Our Bahamas Competition.
Investment team jets out to join in four-day forum
MEMBERS of the Bahamas Investment Authority are in Geneva, Switzerland, this week for the four-day World Investment Forum (WIF).
RENALDO'S RAMBLINGS: NFL PICKS WEEK 7
There were two weeks of media fervour surrounding the premature demise of the Pats dynasty.
Teen stabbed
A 15-year-old boy has been airlifted to a hospital in New Providence following a stabbing incident in Abaco on Tuesday.
Sorority group encourages young to sign up to vote
A LOCAL sorority has created a campaign that encourages young people to register to vote and become educated about national issues.
Woman sexually assaulted by intruder in her home
A WOMAN was sexually assaulted when a man forced his way into her home early yesterday morning, police said.
Real estate can 'absorb' VAT at 6% Stamp Duty
The Bahamian real estate industry can “maybe absorb” Value-Added Tax (VAT) if Stamp Duty rates are cut to 6 per cent market-wide, a leading realtor has told Tribune Business.
Realtor: 'Too many grey areas' on VAT
A leading realtor yesterday said “too many grey areas” remain over Value-Added Tax (VAT), expressing fears that its implementation would be “a bloody mess” come the New Year.
AML's $17.75m refinance to slash interest costs
AML Foods is aiming to slash its annual debt servicing costs by more than $220,000 via the refinancing of its existing $17.75 million preference share debt, its chairman confirmed yesterday.
Investors 'shy away' over LOI-type fears
The Renward Wells ‘Letter of Intent’ controversy further “validates” why many investors “keep shying away” from the Bahamas, the Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) leader said yesterday.
CBS Bahamas expands with brand showroom
Commonwealth Building Supplies (CBS) Bahamas last week unveiled a new showroom for its Kohler kitchens and bathrooms brand.
Bahamians to hit the hardwood in Battle 4 Atlantis
WITH the stage set for the 2014 Battle 4 Atlantis, this year’s event will include eight of the top NCAA men’s basketball programmes and for the first time Bahamian players on the floor which should lead to one of the most successful editions to date.
MARKETING REVOLUTION: Establishing your company's domain
Most people understand that a ‘Domain Name’ is simply the basic web address of a website, but few actually grasp how domain names work.
CASJA choooses athletes to receive awards
THE newly formed Caribbean Sports Journalists’ Association (CASJA) is pleased to collaborate with the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) to select the top track and field athletes in the region.
Wednesday, October 15
Company stages VAT readiness workshop
The Nastac Group has staged a workshop to help businesses prepare their accounting and record-keeping systems for Value Added Tax (VAT).
Ebola concern
RE: EBOLA
Bank of Bahamas officer passes the Series 7 exam
An account officer at the Bank of the Bahamas, Aja A. Burrows, has passed the Series 7 Exam in the US after studying at the Nassau-based Securities Training Institute (STI).
GBPA stages VAT training sessions
Nearly 100 Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) licensees attended its four-day training initiative on Value-Added Tax (VAT).
Clean up the country
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Loretta must distance herself
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Lighting up the darkness
By REV ANGELA PALACIOUS
An insult by Dr Minnis
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Court of Appeal case delayed
A COURT of Appeal case was delayed to November 20 because of outstanding transcripts yesterday.
Bahamas Anglican Men Cursillo Movement hosts their 25th conference
LAST week, the Bahamas Anglican Men Cursillo Movement hosted their 25th conference. The rector for BAMC #25 was Trevor Bethel, assisted by David Ferguson.
Did you marry into a generational curse
By Kevin L A Ewing
Church hosts seminar
UNDER THE theme “We Are Family, Does It Matter?”, the Pastoral Care Ministry of Saint James Anglican Church recently held a seminar to promote its platform.
Highgrove Singers to stage annual summer choral presentation
IN their annual summer choral presentation, the Highgrove Singers, under the direction of Adrian A W Archer will present “Then Sings My Soul” – a concert of sacred hymnody tomorrow and on Sunday.
Teens prepare for Christian Youth Talent Jam
BAHAMIAN teenagers are preparing to take centre stage at the annual Christian Youth Talent Jam tomorrow at the Diplomat Centre at 7.30pm.
TOUGH CALL: Is it time for FNM to change horses or hold a steady course?
WITH less than eight months to the next British general election, the opposition Labour Party appears to be having buyer’s remorse over its choice of leader. In fact, there are some interesting parallels with the political situation here.
All Star Comedy Jam to bring big laughs this Saturday
COMEDY show lovers know that when the name Phat Groove Entertainment pops up on an event flyer they are in for a good time.
Back door sweep: Hitmen send Elite Warriors home
The Arnette’s Sporting Lounge Hitmen and their die hard fans celebrated last night as if it was 2013 all over again when they won their first New Providence Softball Association championship.
FNM must select best candidate to defeat PLP
BAHAMIANS today who offer themselves for leadership in government must be prepared to subject their personal ambitions and consider what is best for the Bahamian people and this nation called the Bahamas.
More power outages - due to 'generation challenges'
POWER outages in pockets of New Providence yesterday were due to ongoing “generation challenges”, Bahamas Electricity Corporation spokeswoman Arnette Ingraham said.
Man shot in head at dock
A MAN is in serious condition in hospital after he was shot in the head at Potter’s Cay Dock on National Heroes Day.
Minister seeks to resolve taxi row
TRANSPORT and Aviation Minister Glenys Hanna Martin says officials are working to prevent a repeat of the tense demonstration that took place between taxi drivers and tour company workers on Bay Street on Monday.
UPDATED: Sands announces bid for FNM deputy leadership
Dr Duane Sands has formally announced his intent to run for FNM deputy leader
New immigration policy is xenophobic, says academic
AN AMERICAN academic has blasted the government’s new immigration policy as “xenophobic” as scepticism among undocumented persons in the Haitian Bahamian community continues to grow over the proposed changes.
Minnis confident he will be re-elected as FNM leader
FNM LEADER Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday he is “more than confident” he will be re-elected at the party’s November convention and is “not concerned” about who will challenge him.
Forecasters: Gonzalo now a Category 4 hurricane
MIAMI (AP) — Forecasters say Hurricane Gonzalo has strengthened to a Category 4 storm as it churns in the Atlantic.
Renward Wells sacked - but no explanation from PM
PRIME Minister Perry Christie has fired Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells from his post of parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Works and Urban Development following months of controversy sparked by his reportedly unauthorised signature on a $650m letter of intent with a waste-to-energy company in July.
International Cultural Festival returns this weekend
WITH ONLY a few more days to go, the largest international festival to hit the Bahamas is gearing up for its 19th edition.
Cash calls on PM to answer over hospital authority audit
FREE National Movement Chairman Darron Cash yesterday called on Prime Minister Perry Christie to say when he became aware of the details contained in a forensic audit of the Public Hospital Authority, which revealed unaccounted for pharmaceuticals worth $10m.
800 visitors on inaugural trip
THE inaugural Bimini SuperFast cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, arrived at the port at Resorts World Bimini yesterday with more than 800 visitors on board.
Fiscal Responsibility Act pledge urged by mid-Nov
The Government was yesterday urged to publicly commit by mid-November to passing a Fiscal Responsibility Act, amid “increasing push back” over fears it will renege on its side of the Value-Added Tax (VAT) bargain.
Limousine drivers complain over road traffic officer's actions
DISGRUNTLED members of the Bahamas Limousine Association yesterday complained that a Road Traffic officer prevents them from getting jobs by giving “first preference to taxi drivers” at the Lynden Pindling International Airport.
Suspect held over armed robbery
POLICE have taken into custody a 26–year-old Carmichael Road man in connection with an armed robbery on Monday morning.
Bail denied for rape suspect
A MAN was remanded to Her Majesty’s Prison yesterday after being arraigned in connection with a recent rape that occurred in Nassau.
Neymour, Rolle and Pintard likely to vie for chairman post
SEVERAL familiar political faces are expected to vie for the chairman’s post at the FNM convention next month.
Fraud suspect to hear bail decision
A MAN accused of aiding a fraud plot is set to return to Magistrate’s Court in a week to learn if he will be granted bail before of trial.
Drug convict's bid to extend appeal time rejected
A DRUG possession convict had his hopes for a reduced sentence dashed by the Court of Appeal yesterday.
Youngsters learning how to make the most of money
STUDENTS from over a dozen schools throughout the Bahamas, representing the “leadership” of the school-based co-operative movement in the country, have been receiving additional advice on money management and leadership skills as part of the annual School Co-operative Conference 2014.
US man held over suspect cash sum
AN American citizen has been arrested in Grand Bahama accused of having in his possession a large sum of US currency, suspected of being the proceeds of criminal activity.
VAT questions as implementation nears
MANY business licensees in Freeport were eager to learn what they need to do to be VAT compliant as the January 1 implementation date draws near.
Man, 24, held over robbery of tourist
A 24-year-old male resident of Bimini has been arrested in connection with the armed robbery of an American visitor on the island.
Good vibes
THE Sandals Foundation and Coca-Cola’s “Vibes On The Island” returns for another fundraiser in aid of PACE’s (Providing Access to Continued Education) building fund.
VAT registration creaks to a start... 0.005% take-up
The Government is optimistic that Value-Added Tax (VAT) implementation will “not be tumultuous” come January 1, although just 20 companies applied to be taxpayers during the first two registration days.
Bahamas 'lost at sea' over oil exploration
A leading advocacy group yesterday said it was opposed to oil exploration in Bahamian waters “unless and until” a US-style Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is created, warning that this nation is “lost at sea” on the issue.
Business registry takeover labelled 'healthy approach'
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) believes the private sector will be better able to self-regulate and ensure greater tax compliance if it takes over as the Registrar of Businesses, its chairman said yesterday.
No 'tsunami' over virtual warehouses
The Government is “not expecting a tsunami” of businesses applying to use ‘virtual warehouses’ to ease the Value-Added Tax (VAT) transition, a top government official expecting “a few dozen at most” by today’s deadline.
Six swimmers to represent Bahamas at the CAC Games
STILL reeling from their success at a number of international meets this year, the Bahamas Swimming Federation is looking forward to another grand showing when a six-member team will represent the Bahamas at the 22nd Central American and Caribbean Games.
Fiscal Responsibility Act pledge urged by mid-Nov
The Government was yesterday urged to publicly commit by mid-November to passing a Fiscal Responsibility Act, amid “increasing push back” over fears it will renege on its side of the Value-Added Tax (VAT) bargain.
MARKETING REVOLUTION: Changing our inward looking mental block
A few years ago I was doing some consulting work for a large Bahamian retailer, and I ran into a technical problem that was beyond my capacity to solve. So I did some research and found some highly-qualified Bahamians to help me solve the problem. In talking to them I said how delighted I was to find this level of expertise in the Bahamas.
21st L Garth Wright Sr Golden Gloves Amateur Boxing Tournament
CHAMPION Amateur Boxing Club hosted its 21st Annual L Garth Wright Sr Golden Gloves Amateur Boxing Tournament at the Wulff Road Boxing Square on Saturday.
GB consultant at Trinidad summit
A Grand Bahama-based business consultant was one of six Bahamian delegates to attend the fourth annual Caribbean Institute of Certified Management Consultants (CICMC) 2014 conference, held in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad this month.
Crusaders earn 9-3 win over Comets
THE CRUSADERS took one step closer to the junior boys BAISS pennant with a convincing 9-3 win against the Queen’s College Comets yesterday, the victory taking the Nassau Christian Academy side’s record for the season to 4-1.
'Black Moses' screens in Big Apple
“THE Black Moses”, a film on the life of the ‘Father of the Nation’, the late Sir Lynden Pindling, had its theatrical release in New York and Nassau on October 10.
For the love of music with DJ KD
LIKE MOST deejays, Krino “DJ KD” Deleveaux’s inspiration to get behind a mixing board stems from his love for music.
Tuesday, October 14
Faction against Minnis
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Little time for Loretta
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Minnis becoming shrewd
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Conference to explore key financial services topics
Local and international financial services experts will explore several key issues at next Wednesday’s Nassau Conference at the British Colonial Hilton.
Association maintenance fees declared VAT-able
The Ministry of Finance yesterday confirmed that maintenance fees for condominium and homeowners’ associations will be subject to Value-Added Tax (VAT) if annual billings exceed the mandatory $100,000 registration threshold, although there is “no upside revenue potential” for the Government.
Muin242 offers up a "Melodic Conch Salad"
By FARAH Tribune Features Writer
GB consultant at Trinidad summit
A Grand Bahama-based business consultant was one of six Bahamian delegates to attend the fourth annual Caribbean Institute of Certified Management Consultants (CICMC) 2014 conference, held in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad this month.
Extreme Youth TV to return with a bang
By JEFFARAH GIBSON
Padrino returns home
By Kortney Rodgers
'Ultimate carnival group' weaves its enchantment
By Kortney Rodgers
And the Supermodels of the Bahamas 2014 are . . .
CONTESTANTS Stephoine St Louis and Michael Anderson are the winners of this year’s Supermodel of the Bahamas competition.
Move comes after letter of intent controversy
Renward Wells has been removed from his position as Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Urban Development.
Health Ministry breaks Ebola silence
SINCE July, the Ebola story has dominated the international airwaves, especially in the United States when it was learned that a Minnesota resident returning home to his Minnesota family collapsed after getting off a plane in Lagos. He later died in Lagos. He had been infected with Ebola in Liberia where he had worked as a top government official in the Liberian Ministry of Finance.
Calling to account
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Jazzy Moms off to a swinging start with brunch
THE JAZZY Moms organisation have held the first in a series of events with their Moms Who Brunch at Doongalik Art Gallery under the theme “Managing the Modern Mom.”
Twins mix and match to produce special cupcakes
IT HAS only been a few months since twins, Deandra and D’shanti Pinder, turned what was once a hobby into a cup cake making business, but their treats have quickly become a sweet tooth must for Bahamians.
YOUNG MAN’S VIEW: ALL FOR ONE . . . ONE FOR ALL?
THINGS are heating up in the Free National Movement and soon members and party officers will feel the fire burning as the internal races and rhetoric, preceding the convention, intensifies before they select an executive team that’s likely to lead the party into the next general election.
'Too early’ to act on hospital report completed in March
IT is “too early” to say if anyone will face consequences due to alarming findings in a forensic audit into the Public Hospitals Authority, Health Minister Dr Perry Gomez said yesterday.
Ten robberies in just three days
POLICE are currently investigating ten armed robberies that occurred within three days, one which resulted in the shooting of a woman.
'No foul play' over prisoner's death
NO FOUL play is suspected in the death of convicted murderer Forrester Bowe, according to police sources close to the matter.
Accusation of bias could see attorney punished by court
ATTORNEY and former Progressive Liberal Parliament member of parliament Keod Smith could face a fine or even time in prison after a Supreme Court judge was urged to consider finding him in contempt for questioning her impartiality on the basis of political affiliation.
HURRICANE GONZALO LATEST
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Hurricane Gonzalo churned up heavy surf across much of the Caribbean on Tuesday.
Woman shot in head by armed bikers
A WOMAN was shot in the head by armed men on motorcycles during a weekend of violence that left four other people in serious condition and one in critical condition in hospital.
Coleloquial: The mindset of innovation
Nick Woodman is the founder and CEO of GoPro, a $10bn tech company that makes mountable sporting video cameras, based in Silicon Valley, California.
Loretta bids to lead FNM
FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner yesterday formally announced her intent to run against current Leader Dr Hubert Minnis at the party’s convention next month.
Bitter or better
WE all want to believe that we are getting better at living our lives, maximising our potential and really becoming who we are born to be.
Scuffle in row between taxi drivers and tour operators
A CONFRONTATION between irate taxi drivers and tour operators turned physical yesterday during a protest at the Prince George Wharf.
Rehabilitation centre steps up after plea to assist disabled man
AFTER reading about a distraught mother’s pleas for financial assistance, a local rehabilitation centre has offered 20 free physiotherapy sessions to her paralysed son.
New Arawak port road proposal within 45 days
The Arawak Port Development Company (APD) expects to pin down financial and planning details for a proposed new road link to its facility within 45 days, believing it could open up further investment on the Cay.
Predators defeat Alliance 17-14 in OT thriller to win the title
THE fifth annual Bahamas Flag Football League postseason invitational tournament saw one new champion crowned while another repeated as title holders at the Winton Rugby Field during the National Heroes Day holiday.
42-page plan 'shows nation's readiness' for Ebola threat
THE government has prepared a 42-page document that outlines exactly what “needs to be done” and “what will be done” should the Ebola virus reach Bahamian shores, Health Minister Dr Perry Gomez said yesterday.
PM's plan for honours system
PRIME Minister Perry Christie said yesterday he hopes when the government returns from its six-week recess, he will be in a position to bring the “long overdue” national honours system to fruition.
Atlantis employee throws party to honour seniors
AN Atlantis employee commemorated Older Persons month in the Bahamas by hosting her organisation’s fifth annual Senior Citizens Festival at Arawak Cay yesterday.
Ammunition found at home in Freeport
A 34-year-old male resident of Freeport was arrested by police after .9mm ammunition was allegedly found at his residence Thursday night.
Breezes '32-month wait' for Baha Mar land proof
SuperClubs Breezes has allegedly been waiting 32 months for proof that the land it will receive from Baha Mar has been freed from all mortgage-related charges.
‘Non-compliance’ forces Sports Authority into $237,000 write-off
The National Sports Authority has effectively been forced to write-off $237,000 due to “non-compliance” by users of the Thomas A. Robinson stadium in paying rental fees.
Insurers fear 'force feeding' over VAT
Family Guardian’s president wants the duration of insurance products, rather than type, to determine their Value-Added Tax (VAT) treatment amid fears that underwriters will be forced to “eat” the tax.
Family Guardian: Mortgages outperforming market by 33%
Family Guardian believes its mortgage portfolio is outperforming the Bahamian market by “about 33 per cent”, with the value of delinquent properties also recovering in the past 10 months.
Sports notes
TWELVE 12 local athletes from seven sports were honoured by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture for their contributions to sports at the Grand Bahama Youth Awards ceremony on Saturday at Christ the King Hall. They were:
Treat parenting like investment returns
A top executive is linking banking principles to parenting in an investment message that is taking hold like a song you cannot get out of your head.
Hitmen face Elite Warriors in fifth and deciding game tonight
THE pennant winning Sting Truckers are sitting back and waiting for their opponents for the New Providence Softball Association’s (NPSA) Carl ‘Bang Bang’ Johnson men’s best-of-seven championship series.
Realtor near doubles plaza's occupancy within 10 months
A realtor has reversed the fortunes of a 15-unit commercial plaza within 10 months, taking occupancy levels from 50 per cent to 90 per cent.
DPM's optimism 'disspiated' over Baha Mar roads talks
The Government remains in negotiations with Baha Mar to resolve its share of the re-routed West Bay Street costs, having paid some $28 million thus far.
BTC targets key launches for 2015
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) will launch both its Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) business enterprise solution and Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) in mid-2015.
Kerrie Cartwright making impact in singles, doubles for Seminoles
KERRIE Cartwright, in her senior year at Florida State University, is making an impact in both singles and doubles for the Seminoles women’s tennis team.
Water reserves reduced by 50%
CARIBBEAN water ministers are examining ways to manage scarce resources and the proper treatment of wastewater, following the latest regional Water and Waste Water Association (CWWA) conference.
Bahamas targeting 'creme de la creme' of investment
Government ministers are this week promoting pharmaceutical manufacturing opportunities in Grand Bahama to the world’s largest investment conference, as they seek to generate “tremendous interest in doing business in the Bahamas”.
Hurricanes a win away from undefeated regular season
THE Holland College Hurricanes officially clinched the top spot in the Atlantic Football League and, by virtue of the pennant, earned home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Bahamas to present at top wealth management summit
The Bahamas will participate in this year’s leading Latin American wealth management summit.
Eight to represent Bahamas at Judo World Juniors
“Whoever wins this tournament will be the champion of the world,” said Tim Munnings, director of sports and Olympic medallist, as he delivered a motivating message to the eight young athletes who will be representing the Bahamas at the Judo World Junior Championships this week in Miami.
Monday, October 13
11pm UPDATE WITH NEW MAP: Tropical Storm Gonzalo
ST. JOHN'S, Antigua (AP) — Hurricane Gonzalo formed Monday in the Caribbean and was on course to move out over open ocean after buffeting Antigua and nearby islands with heavy rain and dangerous wind.
Five critical dental years
PEOPLE aged 21 and older who missed seeing the dentist during the “five critical dental years” keep wondering thereafter “what has happened to my teeth?” They are wondering because their teeth, in many ways, have hit rock bottom early in life.
Noni - the health drink that stands the test of time
By DR BETTY ADDERLEY
How a check-up can reduce worries about your child's health
By BAHAMAS ASSOCIATION OF CHIROPRACTIC
Empire MMA takes 'Team Beastmode' to Florida
By RENALDO DORSETT
Scheduled Bahamas charter plan unveiled
A Texas-based airline operator yesterday unveiled plans to offer scheduled charter service to five Bahamas destinations from Fort Lauderdale and one from New York.
Five top tips for boosting your confidence
Do something good for someone else
Man and woman in hospital after shootings
A man and a woman are in hospital after two separate shooting incidents on Sunday.
Saturday, October 11
Shooting victim 'critical' after 12-hour gun spree puts four in hospital
THREE separate shooting incidents in New Providence in 12 hours have left four men detained in hospital, one in critical condition.
Man held over alleged rape of teen he met on Facebook
A 25-year-old man is in police custody in connection with the alleged rape on Thursday of a teenage girl he met on Facebook.
Murderer is found dead in prison cell
A CONVICTED murderer who took part in a notorious escape in 2006 that resulted in the death of a police officer was found dead in his prison cell yesterday, authorities have confirmed.
Friday, October 10
Bran: Corruption costs Bahamians $200m a year
CORRUPTION costs Bahamians over $200m per year, Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader Branville McCartney claimed yesterday.
Traffic victim identified
By DENISE MAYCOCK
Man gunned down in Nassau Village
A 22-year-old man became the country’s latest murder victim early yesterday morning after he was gunned down in Nassau Village.
WSC takes heat for leak
PRESIDENT and shareholder of Winton Estates Raymond K Claridge yesterday criticised the Water and Sewage Corporation (WSC) for their “inefficiency” for failing to fix a damaged water valve in the Twynam Heights area that has allegedly been “gushing” water for three days.
Former PM Ingraham hopes team 'will help strengthen democracy' in Mozambique
AFTER reading about a distraught mother’s pleas for financial assistance, a local rehabilitation centre has offered 20 free physiotherapy sessions to her paralysed son.
25 years in jail for robbery that ended in death
DUDLEY Seide Jr was yesterday sentenced to 25 years in prison for the armed robbery of businessman Leslie Maycock, who was robbed and murdered five years ago in Grand Bahama.
DNA says hospital audit shows blatant mismanagement
A FORENSIC audit into the Public Hospitals Authority has renewed concerns about “blatant mismanagement of the country’s resources”, the DNA charged while calling for public health officials to answer the tough questions on the allegations of corruption.
Businessman accused of smuggling ammunition
AN elderly businessman was ordered to return to Magistrates Court today to post his $15,000 bail after he was arraigned yesterday in connection with the recent seizure of more than $200,000 worth of stolen vehicles, ammunition and electronics from two shipping containers.
Woman risks five years in prison for human smuggling
A WOMAN faces up to five years imprisonment after being convicted yesterday in the country’s second human trafficking case to date.
Multiple gunshots leave father of three dead
A FATHER of three became the country’s latest murder victim when he was shot multiple times late on Wednesday night.
Wells 'not playing active role' during row, says Davis
DEPUTY Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis says Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells is not playing an active role in the Ministry of Works while the controversy over his allegedly unauthorised signing of a letter of intent persists.
FNM approves convention date
FREE National Movement Central Council members voted overwhelmingly in support of a national convention last night as the party struggles to clamp down on the “appearance of disharmony”.
Ramon Miller 'making real progress' on ligament injury
QUARTER-miler Ramon Miller is slowly working his way back to form.
'I'm in a very good place right now'
ARIANNA Vanderpool-Wallace has some unfinished business to take care of before her celebrated 2014 swimming season is over.
Woman claims BEC staff 'invaded' her property
A DISGRUNTLED Bahamas Electricity Corporation customer claimed BEC technicians conducting a service disconnection exercise this week “invaded” her property, hopped over a wall to gain access and almost “Tasered” her three dogs in the process.
SAC CRUSH THE CRUSADERS 10-0
THE bats of the St Augustine’s College junior boys softball team came alive early yesterday as they defeated the Nassau Christian Academy Crusaders 10-0.
Pre-school gives $200 to help fight cancer
KIND hearted pre-schoolers from the One on One Pre-School proved their generosity by donating $200 to breast cancer awareness last week after hearing of the inaugural Dunking For Boobies event.
Union seeks to negotiate increased pay based on income from oil
BAHAMAS Public Services Union President John Pinder said the union will be “proactive” in formulating a draft for negotiations for increased pay for union members in time for the government’s tabling of its recently completed petroleum legislation.
Davis: BEC overhaul to cost 'between $50m and $500m'
DEPUTY Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday that it may cost between $50m and $500m to overhaul the Bahamas Electricity Corporation.
Man recently freed from jail held for immigration dept raid
A 53-year-old man, who was recently released from prison, is in police custody in connection with a string of thefts, including the break in at the Department of Immigration last month.
Drug dealer's appeal over jurisdiction rejected by court
THE Court of Appeal was divided 2-1 in rejecting a drug convict’s application that questioned its jurisdiction to order that he serve two more years in prison if he fails to pay a $250,000 fine.
Albany clients hit by 'horrific' oil spills
Albany’s marina chief yesterday said he was “hoping and praying” the Government would finally take concrete action over persistent oil spills at Clifton Pier, as there had been several “horrific” incidents witnessed by the development’s high-end guests.
Families 'destroyed' by poverty
CITIZENS For Justice claim that families are being destroyed as a result of increasing poverty and have called on the government to address the high cost of living and of doing business in the Bahamas to avoid unemployment.
Sands wants amicable resolution to leadership conflict
FNM DEPUTY Chairman Dr Duane Sands said yesterday the only way the party can “dig itself out” of a public relations “hole” is for Leader Dr Hubert Minnis and Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner to “resolve their issues amicably.”
50% Breezes expansion 'stymied' by Baha Mar
Plans for a 50 per cent expansion at SuperClubs Breezes have been “completely stymied” by Baha Mar’s failure to complete agreed land transfers, the former’s owner is alleging.
Drug free: The way to be
SPREADING the message to high school students that drugs are not the answer to daily problem solving, the Ministry of National Security made a special presentation at Anatol Rodgers High School this week as part of its drug awareness campaign.
Demetrius Pinder eyes Chris Brown's outdoor record
AS the holder of both the Bahamas national indoor 200 and 400 metres records, Demetrius Pinder said the only thing missing from his résumé; is the outdoor record held by veteran Chris ‘Fireman’ Brown.
WILDCATS TAME THE LADY CARIBS
THE Sigma Wildcats hit top form to end the College of the Bahamas Lady Caribs’ interest in the New Providence Softball Association ladies’ postseason play.
FOUR-YEAR DEALS FOR BTC STAR ATHLETES
FOR the second time, swimmer Arianna Vanderpool-Wallace and track and field athletes Demetrius Pinder, Ramon Miller and Shaunae Miller will act as BTC Star Athletes. This time, however, the quartet are signed up for the next four years which will take them into the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janiero, Brazil.
Port profits rise on expenses $1m below forecasts
Arawak Port Development Company (APD) cut budgeted expenses by more than $1 million to produce a 3.5 per cent profit increase for its 2014 financial year, offsetting the failure to hit revenue and cargo throughput targets.
Unpaid property, casino taxes branded as 'crazy'
A Tax Coalition co-chair yesterday suggested that the Government ‘sell’ its $580 million real property tax receivables to the private sector, describing this and the build-up of $51 million in unpaid casino taxes as “crazy”.
Betty K to gain $2.553m new home
The Arawak Port Development Company (APD) is expecting to go out to bid within the next 30 days on a $2.553 million construction project designed to give Betty K Shipping a new home.
Consolidated in $18m annual Bahamas spend
BISX-listed Consolidated Water says its operations inject $18 million annually into the Bahamian economy.
Financiers also responsible for Bahamian fiscal crisis
Many Bahamians are blaming the Government for perceived corruption and illicit laundering of borrowed funds in various loss-making enterprises.
Union leader: Apply dispute resolution to labour cases
A Bahamian trade union leader yesterday said he backed alternative dispute resolution (ADR) “100 per cent” as a mechanism for resolving industrial conflicts.
Thursday, October 9
Minnis is too weak
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Disagreeing with PM's detractors
EDITOR, The Tribune.
US applauds equality initiatives
By Lisa Johnson
McCartney is no different
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Commission signs 24th Europe fund agreement
The Securities Commission has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) with its French counterpart, the Autorit� des March�s Financiers (AMF).
Protect our businesses
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Clubs and societies 10/10/2014
Cycling Club Bahamas. - Upcoming Events:
Time for Loretta
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Sports in brief
BOWLING:
TOUGH CALL: What's the hold up with a Bahamian university?
(This article, written by Larry Smith on February 7, 2012 is reprinted here today because the subject of what’s holding up a Bahamian university is still topical. The question he asked then – all the preparatory work to turn the College into a university has been completed, so what’s the hold up? – is still relevant today).
Nov 21 convention date must be ratified by FNM council
FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said the party’s planned November 21 convention has to be ratified by the FNM’s council adding that he has “no idea” how the information on the event was leaked prematurely.
Cutting the ribbon at hospital cafe
DOCTORS Hospital has completed the renovation and rebranding of its cafeteria and has invited the public to come and see what the new Meyer’s Cafe has to offer.
Teaming up for concert to raise funds
URBAN RENEWAL yesterday announced a new social partnership with the Tribune Media Group in an effort to host a Christmas concert that will raise funds for the much-needed provision of 600 new instruments for the Urban Renewal Band.
Hospital shake-up could cut corruption, says report
A FORENSIC report into the Public Hospitals Authority suggested frequent reshuffling of the executive team in an effort to reduce the appearance of corruption.
Man who stabbed girlfriend to death in rage jailed for 45 years
A MAN was sentenced to 45 years in prison yesterday for the murder of his girlfriend who he stabbed 15 times and nearly beheaded.
Laws expected next month on oil drilling
LEGISLATION to govern oil exploration will also include the framework for a “sovereign wealth fund” that would benefit the nation in case commercially viable quantities of oil are discovered, Environment Minister Kenred Dorsett said yesterday.
Body of missing policeman found
The body found in a Freeport canal has been identified as that of retired police officer Frank Pearson who was reported missing earlier this week.
Time running out for govt to collect $50m in unpaid taxes
THE 2012 Auditor General’s Report recommended that the government take “urgent steps” to collect more than $51m in outstanding taxes owed from closed casinos before the opportunity to do so would not exist.
Minnis warned he is ‘playing a dangerous game’
FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner has told party Leader Dr Hubert Minnis he is playing a transparently “dangerous game” by calling a snap convention next month.
RENALDO'S RAMBLINGS: NFL PICKS WK6
WEEK FIVE REWARDS The “No Country For Old Men ... Except This One. Old Men Rule This One With An Iron Fist” Award presented by George Blanda - Tom Brady and Peyton Manning.
'High fraud risk' as $108m taxes still due
The Government failed to collect almost $108 million in due real property taxes during the 2011-2012 Budget period, a sum equivalent to almost 25 per cent of that year’s fiscal deficit.
Mother's plea for help for disabled son
A DISTRAUGHT mother struggling to come up with funds to pay off her disabled son’s physical rehabilitation fees has made an emotional plea to the public for financial assistance.
Cause of oil spill 'remains unclear'
THE government is still unsure about the actual cause of the latest oil spill to occur in the Clifton Pier area last weekend, according to Environment Minister Kenred Dorsett.
Cash says 'spotlight of suspicion' is on govt as house takes recess with no answers from Wells
FREE National Movement Chairman Darron Cash said “the spotlight of suspicion” now shines on many people within government in the absence of definitive answers over Renward Wells’ signing of a multi-million letter of intent with a waste to energy company.
On Da Hook
DEEP drop fishing has been the theme for the most part in in the Bahamas this week, with reports coming in from Grand Bahama, Abaco and as far south as Inagua.
Review to guard against money laundering
THE FIRST phase of an intensive review of the country’s financial systems and regulatory capacity to protect against money laundering and terrorism began yesterday.
Man in tears as he is cleared of sex attack on 12-year-old
Govt 'slow' on Ebola policy http://bit.ly/1xupm8M
Woman dies in traffic accident
A 78-year-old businesswoman was killed in a traffic accident on Seahorse Road in Grand Bahama on Wednesday.
Two charged in connection with illegal landing of migrants
TWO Bahamian men have been charged in Abaco for assisting in the illegal landing of some 20 illegal Haitians on the island this week.
PM expected to chair CARICOM in January
PRIME Minister Perry Christie is expected to chair CARICOM in January, Attorney General Allyson Maynard-Gibson said yesterday.
Govt 'slow' on Ebola policy
FNM DEPUTY Chairman Dr Duane Sands yesterday accused the government of being “slow” to execute an effective policy to minimise the risk of the Ebola virus reaching our shores.
Yolette enters second year in charge of JU Dolphins
THE off-season has been almost non-stop basketball for Yolett McPhee-McCuin and now her focus shifts from the national level to the collegiate level as she enters her second year at the helm for the Jacksonville University Dolphins women’s programme.
Income tax 'on horizon' within next 10 years
A Tax Coalition co-chair yesterday said he believes a Bahamian income tax will be “the subject of great discussion, if not already on the books”, within a decade due to it being the only equitable reform option.
'Huge change' to VAT on tourism
The Government’s decision not to levy Value-Added Tax (VAT) on gross overseas sales and gratuities was yesterday branded “a huge change” that will ensure tourists are not directed away from the Bahamas.
Gov't oil regime 'unblocks logjam'
The Government’s plan to bring the new Petroleum Act and accompanying regulations to Parliament next month was yesterday hailed as the first step in “unblocking a logjam” to multi-million dollar oil exploration investments.
'Concern' over Treasury's $20m in bad cheques
The Public Treasury has been urged to get a grip on $20 million worth of “dishonoured cheques”, with the Auditor General calling on these to be provided for as ‘doubtful accounts’.
Hutchison manager passes Canadian compliance exam
A manager at the Hutchison Group of Companies in Grand Bahama, Kimberley Knowles, has passed the Canadian Chief Compliance Officer qualifying exam after studying with the Securities Training Institute’s (STI) on-line programme.
ART OF GRAPHIX: The site to fit the type
The Internet has forever changed the way we do business. Businesses are networking better than they ever could before due to social networking sites.
Gov't 'putting money where mouth is' over financial regulation
The Government is prepared to “put its money where its mouth is” to ensure compliance with global anti-money laundering and terrorism financing standards, the Attorney General said yesterday.
Anti-money launder assessment to take six-eight months
AN assessment of this nation’s anti-money laundering and terrorism financing defences is expected to take six to eight months, the Compliance Commission’s inspector yesterday saying it would assess the ‘real’ rather than perceived risk of such activities in the Bahamas.
Property buyers urged: Close deals before Jan 1
HOME and property buyers who are can close their transactions prior to January 1 should seek to do so, a leading housing developer urged yesterday, as there would be a “big difference” between closing costs before and after Value-Added Tax (VAT) implementation.
Beastmode facing Florida test
EMPIRE Mixed Martial Arts will take another major stride toward the local development of the sport as they get set to face international competition in the near future.
Flag football teams gear up for invitational
THE Bahamas Flag Football League (BFFL) is set to stage its fifth annual invitational tournament over the holiday weekend at the Winton Rugby Field.
US sports scientist to help Bahamian swimmer
IN A sport where a place on the podium is determined by fractions of a second, every competitive swimmer wants to swim faster. Later this month, Bahamian swimmers will have another opportunity to improve their technique and learn new ways to train and race when US sport scientist Rod Havriluk will hold swim clinics at two Nassau locations.
Wednesday, October 8
Prayers in Andros for the success of BAMSI
THE Bahamas Agricultural and Marine Institute (BAMSI) began operation with a special Pontifical Eucharist at the Parish Church of St Margaret, Nicholl’s Town, Andros on September 28.
Breastfeeding is God's divine plan
By REV ANGELA PALACIOUS
Calvary Deliverance to host prophetic conference
THE family of Calvary Deliverance Church, under the leadership of Senior Pastor James Newry and Lady Queenie Newry, will host their second annual Prophetic Conference from October 27 to 30.
Late in ordering hazmat suits
EDITOR, The Tribune.
PLP in a hard place facing tough decisions
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Distinguished Bahamians honoured in Andros
THE Parish of St Margaret in Andros last month honoured nine people for their priceless contributions to local and national society.
Beware the spirit of Delilah that is subtly affecting your life
By KEVIN L A EWING
St Ambrose Church fair bigger and better this year
ST AMBROSE Anglican Church held its “Da Dilly Tree” Grill and Fair over the weekend and were pleased to see it growing in popularity.
Business plans must account for pandemic
When I was first introduced to business continuity in the early 2000s, the ‘buzz word’ was the H1N1/H5N1/avian influenza better known as the bird flu. Many major global players, such as Toyota and Sony, were beginning to develop and test response plans for this contagious event.
Law firm stages client seminar
HIGGS & JOHNSON last Wednesday hosted its annual client seminar under the theme ‘Bankruptcy, Inheritance & Taxes’.
Lead the way of Ebola action
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Anglican Synod meets in Nassau next week
THE Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands will meet for its 113th annual Synod next week.
Baptists gather to dedicate new auditorium
THE Baptist community gathered to dedicate a new auditorium on Jean Street, Gleniston Gardens, in honour of Rev Dr William Thompson, CMG, senior pastor of Faith United Missionary Baptist Church and president of the Bahamas National Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention.
Take up arms and steel yourself for spiritual warfare
By JEFFARAH GIBSON
Cooking competition will be highlight of St James ACM Grill Fest
By ALESHA CADET
HeadHere
THIS is the National Heroes holiday weekend.
In Ya Ear With DJ Spuddy
YOUNG and aspiring Djs are on the rise in the Bahamas and Gerald “DJ Spuddy” Bowe Jr holds a solid spot on that list.
Minnis on equality bill: Don't blame delay, just bring the vote
FNM Leader Dr Hubert Minnis urged the government yesterday to bring the Constitutional Amendment Bills to the House of Assembly for a vote and quit blaming the FNM for delays.
Swimmer aims for 79 miles in 48 hours - avoiding sharks and jellyfish
AUSTRALIAN ultra-marathon swimmer Chloe McCardel will attempt a world record-breaking open water swim from the southern tip of Eleuthera to Nassau later this month. If successful the 79-mile swim, which is expected to take up to 48 hours to complete, would be the longest open-water solo, continuous, unassisted marathon swim ever.
Activist: Why is referendum not treated as a human rights issue?
ACTIVIST Erin Greene yesterday said the latest postponement of voting on the four Constitutional Amendment Bills in Parliament was inevitable given the government’s reluctance to address the changes as a human rights issue.
Hamilton: 'Don't like the PLP? Leave!'
SOUTH Beach MP Cleola Hamilton criticised political “turncoats” yesterday who are attempting to dismantle the Progressive Liberal Party. She urged them to “gather the testicular fortitude” and leave the party.
NAACP calls for probe of Bahamian's death by stun gun
THE National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) wants the US Justice Department to investigate the death of a Bahamian in New London, Connecticut, after he was shot twice by police stun guns over the weekend, according to American press reports.
Lightbourn quizzes govt on $10m of missing drugs
MONTAGU MP Richard Lightbourn raised concerns over a reported unaccounted $10m in pharmaceutical drugs and supplies from the Public Hospital’s Authority while questioning the government’s ability to responsibly handle public funds as debate continued on a multi-million dollar resolution for COB’s further development.
Double rapist Oscar Ingraham gets 30 years in jail
A JUDGE yesterday did not go along with Crown prosecutors’ request that a double rapist, considered “a serial rapist” and a “danger to society”, be given a life sentence.
Women urged to be vigilant after spate of attacks
POLICE are warning women to be “extra careful and vigilant” after a recent “spike” in the number of reported rapes in New Providence.
Nzuri debuts to raise awareness of domestic violence
NZURI, a Bahamian film created by a husband and wife team to bring awareness of domestic violence abuse occurring in the country, presented a harsh storyline while providing the audience with comedy, action and suspense at its premiere at Galleria Cinemas JFK last Thursday.
MP questions govt diligence while Wells remains silent
MONTAGU MP Richard Lightbourn questioned “how the government does business” after discovering a judgment filed in the Supreme Court against Stellar Waste Management principal owner Dr Fabrizio Zanaboni.
Drug trafficker's appeal delayed until he is freed from US prison
THE Court of Appeal yesterday adjourned the hearing of convicted drug trafficker Dwight Major until his scheduled release from a US prison in May 2016.
Cash condemns use of BIS as propaganda arm of the PLP
WITH just over two months until value added tax is officially introduced in the Bahamas, National Insurance Board Director Rowena Bethel said the organisation has identified an internal committee to ensure that the organisation is ready once the tax is implemented.
Marine among those accused of gun charges
A DEFENCE Force marine was one of several persons arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with four separate firearm and ammunition seizures last weekend.
NIB sets up committee to ensure readiness for VAT
WITH just over two months until value added tax is officially introduced in the Bahamas, National Insurance Board Director Rowena Bethel said the organisation has identified an internal committee to ensure that the organisation is ready once the tax is implemented.
Search and rescue group to shut down as stalwart ends tenure
AFTER 37 years, the Nassau-founded SEARCH organisation has announced that it will cease to operate at the end of the month as no successor can be found to replace long-serving stalwart Nick Wardle as president.
IMF cuts Bahamas 2015 growth 25%
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) yesterday cut its projections for Bahamian GDP growth in 2015 by 25 per cent, meaning this nation’s focus has “got to be” economic expansion and job creation.
Wildgoose seeks a bigger stage
QUITTING his daytime job to become a full-time artist and actor was not easy, chasing a dream in an entirely new city ever tougher. However, fear of the unknown did not stop Matthew Wildgoose from moving to Atlanta and the Bahamian actor is confident that his relocation will help launch his career as a world class performer.
Touching down in Nassau? Then why adverts for Florida?
AN irate citizen criticised Bahamas Airport Advertising, the advertising company for the Lynden Pindling International Airport for opting to place a Miami, Florida advertisement in the arrivals section of the airport.
Salus Project observes social wellness with group installation artwork
IN KEEPING with its aim of hosting exhibitions that focus on components of wellness, The Salus Project will present an interactive show entitled “In Observance” from tomorrow at the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas.
'BASEBALL IS BACK'
With those words Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Dr Daniel Johnson, announced an historic agreement yesterday resolving the lengthy and damaging dispute between the Bahamas Baseball Association (BBA) and the Bahamas Baseball Federation (BBF).
DNA leader questions ability to cope if ebola reaches the Bahamas
DNA LEADER Branville McCartney yesterday questioned the government’s ability to deal with an Ebola crisis should the deadly virus reach our shores.
Ministry of Education forced to close by lightning strike
THE Ministry of Education was closed yesterday because of malfunctioning air conditioning units that were reportedly damaged by a lightning strike.
Up close and personal with harsh realities
SHAKESPEARE in Paradise struck a conscious chord with its production of “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf.”
Fashionable and fierce
FRIENDS and entrepreneurs, Audra Bain and Kotora Johnson, merged their local businesses for a day to host a Fashionable and Fierce Party at Luciano’s of Chicago on Sunday.
'It's all about getting the job done'
AS THE sixth Bahamian to play in the Major League, Antoan Richardson has had an impact on the local sporting community. He joined the elite field that includes Ed Armbrister, Wilfred ‘Suggy’ Culmer, Tony Curry, Wenty Ford and Andre Rodgers.
Willis and The Illest band to debut new single
BAHAMIAN reggae band, Willis and the Illest, will reveal their newest project - a cover version of Bass is Heavy - to their fans during a special event at the John Watling’s Distillery on Friday.
Realtor: 'Tale of two markets' means 90% of buyers high-end
A well-known realtor yesterday said his reliance on luxury international purchasers has grown to 80-90 per cent of his sales, telling Tribune Business: “It’s almost like the Bahamian buyer has disappeared.”
Water Corp eyes monthly billing
The Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) is aiming to shift to a monthly billing system through the introduction of automated meter reading (AMR) for both commercial and residential consumers, ending the practice of physical meter readings.
City Markets pension deal: renewed hope
City Markets’ former principal yesterday said he was “hopeful we should have agreement by the end of the week” on a real estate deal that would settle the pension obligations owed to one group of retirees/beneficiaries.
South Ocean resident 'won't rest' until access answers
A South Ocean Village resident yesterday pledged he “will not rest” until the resort explains why it has seemingly barred himself and other homeowners from accessing the beach, threatening legal action if the matter is not resolved.
Fidelity rewards staff's top achieving children
Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) has hosted an award ceremony during which 30 students were recognised for academic excellence.
NEW ANDRE RODGERS NATIONAL BASEBALL STADIUM TO BE CONSTRUCTED
WITH the Baseball Baseball Association and the Bahamas Baseball Federation now coming back together under one umbrella, the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture is looking at the next phase of restoring the creditability of the sport with the construction of the new Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium.
Sandals graduates 20 from training plan
Sandals Royal Bahamian has prepared 20 persons to enter the industry after they completed the resort’s Hospitality Training Programme (HTP). It subsequently hired 65 per cent of the graduates who were eligible to work, following the six week exercise.
Carey and Arthur make Sparks fly against Shockers
THE Catholic Board of Education basketball season moved into the second week with a double header between the St Thomas Moore and St Francis and Joseph boys and girls teams at Loyola Hall.
MARKETING REVOLUTION: Dare to be bold amid the critics
If you have something of value to offer the world, and dare to market it in a different way to what everyone else does, then congratulations are in order. You have joined the Marketing Revolution.
National debt hits $5.8bn at mid-year
The Bahamas’ national debt stood at almost $5.8 billion at end-June 2014, increasing by $131.2 million during the year’s second quarter despite a narrowing of the Government’s fiscal deficit.
Playing it for laughs
THE Caribbean King of Comedy, Oliver Samuels, is bringing his popular production, Dolly House, to a Bahamian audience on Sunday at the Rainforest Theatre, Wyndham Nassau Resort.
Taylor-made teaching for musicians and all that jazz
ENCOURAGING young musicians to pursue their gifts to a “superior level” has always been a goal for Jazz artist Naomi Taylor-Crawford.
Tuesday, October 7
PHOTO GALLERY: Carnival outfits launched in style
THE Carnival colours of the Eden Bahamas Carnival band were unveiled on Saturday.
Briefly
I’M SURE there are many technical explanations for the recent breakdowns in Secret Service protection that allowed an armed intruder to run right through the front door of the White House and an armed felon to ride on an elevator with President Barack Obama. But I’d also put some blame on the nation’s political class.
Church has no right to lecture PLP
EDITOR, The Tribune.
A missing element in the VAT equation
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Pouring good money after bad?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
‘I looked in the mirror and saw a total stranger’
EVEN after feeling a lump in her breast and taking a mammogram, the possibility of having breast cancer was the last thing on Sharine Symonette’s mind since she had no family history of the disease. Unfortunately, her doubts, did nothing to change the test results.
COLELOQUIAL: The Great Parliamentary Show
ON the morning I write this, I recognise, in my favourite western-area coffee shop, and seated snugly in the corner but in view of the door, the former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, a character missing from the dramedy cast profiled here, but looking very well-rested in his retirement.
BREAKING NEWS: Oscar Ingraham sentenced to 30 years
Oscar Ingraham was sentenced today to 30 years imprisonment for two separate home invasions and rape of two women.
Union ordered by court to pay injunction costs
THE Supreme Court has ruled that last month’s three-day strike by several unions that fall under the Trade Union Congress was illegal and bound the involved unions from taking further action until their respective disputes were resolved before the Industrial Tribunal.
Ingraham chosen to lead election monitor group
FORMER Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has been selected to lead a Commonwealth Observer Group that will monitor the national and provincial elections in Mozambique later this month.
$16.1m loan to pay for COB university changes
THE Christie administration yesterday moved a $16.1m resolution that is expected to cover 70 per cent of the $23.2m in costs to cover the first phase of the College of the Bahamas’ transition to university status.
'Political interference' claim over police promotions
QUESTIONS are being raised over whether there is government interference in determining who is promoted as part of the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s expected promotion exercises.
No funds to repair broken traffic lights
MOTORISTS will have to put up with malfunctioning traffic lights at a busy Nassau intersection for the foreseeable future as a Ministry of Works official yesterday appealed for patience and said there were no funds to meet the $20,000 cost of repairs.
Oil leak was from BEC and one other source
BAHAMAS Electricity Corporation executives met with government officials and a team of biological engineers from the United States yesterday morning after it was discovered that fuel from the corporation’s Clifton Pier facility was leaking along the coastline.
FNM blamed for new delay in referendum
NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage blamed the opposition for the failure of the four Constitutional Bills to move through the House of Assembly, causing another delay to passing the landmark changes in the lower chamber yesterday.
Bahamian killed by stun gun was visiting relative in the US
A 31-year-old Bahamian who died in Connecticut over the weekend was visiting relatives the week police shot him twice with a stun gun, according to international reports.
100 escaped capture in Abaco landing
PRELIMINARY investigations into Sunday’s illegal landing of Haitian migrants in Abaco reveal that 11 persons were allegedly thrown overboard during the journey from Haiti to the Bahamas and at least 100 migrants landed safely and evaded capture, according to Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell.
'Why did it take a crisis to bring a wake-up call over oil?'
SAVE The Bays yesterday praised the government for taking action after the latest oil spill in the Clifton area, but lamented that it took a crisis to give rise to a wake-up call.
Police seize 26 stolen motorcycles
POLICE seized 26 stolen motorcycles Sunday afternoon during a “major operation” designed to “deter and disrupt the biking nuisance” in New Providence, according to Superintendent Stephen Dean.
Supreme Court justice to be appointed
A NEW Supreme Court justice is expected to be appointed this Thursday as the government furthers its efforts to speed up the rate at which cases in the country are tried and heard.
Man bailed for firearm possession faces court over new gun find
A MAN on $10,000 bail ahead of trial for possession of an unlicensed firearm was back in Magistrate’s Court yesterday facing the same charge in connection with a firearm arrest over the weekend.
New sports academy takes it to the max
MAXIMUM Development Sports Academy was created with several goals in mind, most noteably to prepare aspiring student athletes for scholastic and professional opportunities through baseball.
Date for appeal of murder conviction
A NEW court date has been set for a man contesting his conviction and sentence in the Court of Appeal for a failed home invasion that turned deadly.
Dawn Charlton takes CAC title
IT WAS third time lucky for Dawn Charlton as she became the latest Bahamian to earn her professional bodybuilding card by winning the overall women’s fitness title at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships over the weekend in St Maarten.
Tourism 'black eye' fears from oil spill
A leading dive operator yesterday warned that the latest Clifton oil spill could leave the Bahamas with “a real black eye” internationally, having potentially cost his business “tens of thousands of dollars” in damages/
Making his mark in the major leagues
WHEN Antoan Richardson had the opportunity last month to play in the Major Leagues for the second time in his career little did he think he would play a pivotal role in one of the defining games of the 2014 baseball season.
Why your mouth is no place for fashion
WOULD you have your tongue pierced if you knew that it might cost you your life? Well, some people have taken that chance and died as a direct result of this one decision.
Baha Mar donates to band's New York trip
More than a dozen rake n’ scrape band members yesterday left for New York, where they will perform at churches and colleges in and around the city.
Bahamian players close in on major league baseball
SEVERAL Bahamian players have made strides this summer towards their ultimate goal of a Major League Baseball (MLB) call-up.
Heart and sole
DOING WHAT they can to lend a helping hand to Bahamian communities in need, the members and staff at Club One Fitness Centre at Sandyport have created a new outreach project - Sole 2 Sole.
Pretty in Pink - Mario's strikes out in the fight against cancer
SOLIDIFYING its commitment to create continued awareness of and "strike" against breast cancer, Mario's Bowling and Entertainment Palace hosted its "best ever" Paint Da Lanes Pink event at the weekend.
Supermodel of the Bahamas returns - angels only please
FOR the seventh time the Supermodel of the Bahamas Model Search competition is back with 11 contestants for the coveted 2014 title.
Show your trust and people will trust in you
PEOPLE often say that their word is their bond, meaning that once they give you their word, you can trust them to follow through on doing what they say they would do.
Drying skin, stinging and burning is not the answer to blackheads
Your skin has something to say! Let’s start with the basics ...
Gov't told: 'Live up to your end of the fiscal bargain'
The private sector has contacted an international organisation that works to make governments more accountable for help in achieving the same in the Bahamas, as it told the Christie administration: “Live up to your end of the bargain”.
'Battle 4 Atlantis' beats impossible: Sales 15% higher
Atlantis’s top executive believes the resort has achieved the impossible by selling tickets for its upcoming US college basketball tournament at a pace that is 15 per cent faster year-over-year.
Darts duo shine in tournaments
BREYDON Rosson and India Sweeting, the top male and female youth players in the country, are still basking in their success at the Caribbean Cup XX and the WAF Americas Cup VII in Tampa, Florida, in July.
Atlantis to 'open new market' on October 16
Atlantis believes it will “open up a whole new market” for itself and the Bahamas when its 10-year franchise/marketing relationship with Marriott and its Autograph Collection launches on October 16.
Realtors: ‘Biggest hurdle’ VAT on commercial sales
Value-Added Tax (VAT) on commercial property transactions is the biggest hurdle” the industry will have to overcome as a result of tax reform, the Bahamas Real Estate Association’s (BREA) president said yesterday.
Caribbean water utilities assess disaster response
Caribbean water operators began the 23rd annual Caribbean Water and Waste Water Association (CWWA) conference yesterday examining best practices across the region in risk management and natural disaster responses.
Scotiabank backs education efforts
Scotiabank partnered with the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) as it hosted its 16th annual golf tournament.
Coaches work on their skills ahead of soccer season
WITH the youth soccer season kicking off next week, the Bahamas Football Federation (BFA) has been focusing on improving coaching skills and involving new coaches in the game in order to give players the right training from an early age.
Cricketers look to make home pitch count
NEXT month, the Bahamas Cricket Association’s national programme will have an opportunity to protect home pitch advantage and rebound from a disappointing finish in their last appearance.
Monday, October 6
Sports in brief
MOTOR RACING
NIB inspectors appointed in bid to increase compliance
By NICO SCAVELLA
New businesses 'a sign of confidence'
By DENISE MAYCOCK
Praise for songwriter's anti-crime message
BY DENISE MAYCOCK
Sun, sand and sea is stale
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Safe and sure at the adjustment bureau
By THE BAHAMAS ASSOCIATION OF CHIROPRACTIC
DNA hits a raw nerve with Mitchell
FOX HILL MP Fred Mitchell’s complaint that the Democratic National Alliance paid demonstrators to go to Bay Street Wednesday to protest against government, sounded like the exclamation of an incredulous child seeing a movie for the first time.
Third party politics: Changing of the guard at the Palace of Westminster
The Conservatives have new energy and impetus but are unsure how to respond to the UKIP threat while Labour’s weak, left-leaning leader is an electoral liability. As the starting gun fires on the race to next year’s General Election in Britain Peter Young forsees the end of voting on traditional two-party lines amid the political uncertainties.
YOUNG MAN'S VIEW: Determining the true value of an ideal education leader
WITHOUT doubt, the $400,000 salary demand by recently selected College of The Bahamas (COB) presidential candidate Rodney Smith is excessive, beyond the pale and, frankly, unreasonable.
Mitchell says DNA marchers were paid $25
THE Democratic National Alliance allegedly paid “vulnerable people” $25 to wear DNA T-shirts and to participate in the party’s demonstration last week, Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell claimed.
Another oil spill confirmed, government launches probe
SAVE The Bays Director Fred Smith yesterday accused the government of pandering to the United Nations on the environment instead of effectively mitigating oil pollution after another spill was confirmed in the Clifton area.
Minnis says he hopes that Wells will resign today
FREE National Movement Leader Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday he hopes that Renward Wells will announce in the House of Assembly today that he has resigned from his post as parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Works.
Bahamian dies as US police shoot him with stun gun
A BAHAMIAN medical school graduate died in Connecticut on Saturday morning after police officers used stun guns on him twice in the span of eight hours, according to American reports.
Man jumps in car and rapes female driver
A FEMALE motorist was raped in the Carmichael Road area early yesterday morning, police said.
Rollins facing suspension risk
FORT Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins could be reprimanded, refused a nomination in the 2017 general election or suspended for up to two years by the PLP’s National General Council based on a report from a disciplinary committee formed last week to determine his fate.
Smith supports delay in PLP convention
FORMER Progressive Liberal Party Cabinet Minister George Smith yesterday welcomed the party’s decision to postpone its national convention until next year because the country is currently faced with many important issues.
Five arrests after firearms discovered
POLICE arrested five people and recovered four firearms with ammunition this weekend.
A whole new world of art under the sea
THE western New Providence seascape is changing this week as the Bahamas’ first “underwater living art gallery” takes shape in the waters off Clifton Heritage National Park.
Six undocumented crew members seized on Bahamian boat
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force arrested six undocumented crew members on board a Bahamian fishing vessel that was seized last week for fisheries and immigration violations.
Atlantis groups up 16% despite VAT concerns
Atlantis’s “very strong” 2016 group booking pace is 16 per cent ahead of this year, despite the twin threats posed by Value-Added Tax (VAT) and competition from Baha Mar.
Resorts World Bimini 'adopts' high school
RESORTS World Bimini (RWB) has “adopted” the Louise McDonald High School and will be working closely with the school’s administrators to improve the academic experience of its students.
Spate of armed robberies
POLICE are appealing for public assistance in a spate of armed robberies over the weekend.
Shooting and stabbings over weekend
POLICE are investigating two weekend shootings and three stabbing incidents.
32-year-old held after stabbing
GRAND Bahama police have arrested a 32-year-old man in connection with a stabbing incident that occurred in Freeport.
'Maximum size Freeport' would end VAT need
Freeport could generate “significantly more” revenue than Value-Added Tax (VAT) on its own, if its ‘free trade zone’ model was allowed to grow the city to its 300,000 resident-strong maximum.
National Development Plan consultation 'kicks off'' today
Consultation on the Government’s long-awaited National Development Plan begins today, a Cabinet Minister describing it as “fundamental to the future success of the Bahamas” and its economy.
Stop VAT-financed Gov't 'spend spree'
A VAT Education Task Force member has urged Bahamians to prevent the Government using its anticipated $400 million revenue windfall to finance “a spending spree”, adding that other taxes should be cut to ease the economic burden.
Atlantis 'prepays' energy bill to boost BEC liquidity
Atlantis has been paying its BEC bill before receiving it to boost the cash-strapped Corporation’s cash flow, its top executive warning that lower energy costs were “imperative” for Bahamian economic success.
Back in the game
THE College of The Bahamas Lady Caribs and the Arnette’s Sporting Lounge Hitmen avoided getting swept in their respective New Providence Softball Association’s best-of-five playoff series on Saturday night.
Businesses exposed to VAT penalties by employee fraud
Businesses must beware employees exposing them to Value-Added Tax (VAT) penalties by committing fraud, a well-known accountant urging that they enhance their internal controls.
Carnival works with Gov't to aid cruise passenger security
CARNIVAL Cruise Lines is working with the Bahamian authorities to enhance visitor security its chief executive recently confirmed, adding that it also had concerns about Value-Added Tax’s (VAT) implementation.
Antoan: I never gave up on my dream
IT’S one thing to get a chance to play at the highest level of your sport. It’s another when you get a second chance to do it all over again.
History shows price of Gov't appeasement
CARNIVAL Cruise Lines is working with the Bahamian authorities to enhance visitor security its chief executive recently confirmed, adding that it also had concerns about Value-Added Tax’s (VAT) implementation.
Identify theft, bribery schemes on the rise
BAHAMIAN accountants specialising in internal fraud investigations have noticed a rise in identity theft and bribery schemes likely brought on by unemployment.
Tax expert: Bahamas' low VAT rate to lower inflation
The Government’s decision to opt for a “relatively low” 7.5 per cent Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate should ensure the Bahamas avoids a major inflationary impact unlike other nations, an international tax expert says.
Sunday, October 5
Family Guardian ratings reaffirmed
BISX-listed Family Guardian Insurance Company has seen the world’s leading insurance credit rating agency reaffirm its top financial strength ratings.
Price of a plagiarist
EDITOR, The Tribune
Former Haitian president Jean-Claude Duvualier dies aged 63
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti
Sports in brief
Bowling
If Christie can't fire Wells, maybe it's time to fire Christie
EDITOR, The Tribune.
US officials in Baha Mar tour
Senior US Embassy officials have been introduced to Baha Mar’s executive team and taken on a tour of the luxury $3.5 billion resort.
The green holes of debt
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Port Lucaya Marketplace buyer in carnival donation
The potential purchaser of Freeport’s Port Lucaya Marketplace has donated funding to the combined Grand Bahama Carnival Company. The money will be used to develop prototype costumes for next year’s Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival set for May 7-9, 2015.
Hurricanes keep top spot
By RENALDO DORSETT
Businesses exposed to VAT penalties by employee fraud
By NATARIO McKENZIE
Saturday, October 4
PLP convention postponed
THE Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) has postponed its highly anticipated November convention to next year out of respect for the expected constitutional referendum.
COB AGREES THREE-YEAR DEAL WITH SMITH AS PRESIDENT
THE College of the Bahamas announced last night that Dr Rodney Smith has officially been appointed president to serve for a period of three years.
PLP committee to ‘determine fate’ of Rollins
THE Progressive Liberal Party has activated its disciplinary committee to “determine the fate” of Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins, according to party Chairman Bradley Roberts.
Man shot after argument at neighbour’s house
A 36-year-old man is in serious condition in hospital after he was shot several times during an argument at his neighbour’s Pineyard Road home Thursday night.
Friday, October 3
VIDEO: Breast Cancer awareness event a splash hit - $3,400 raised
“DUNKING For Boobies”, a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness hosted by Radio House and the Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative Foundation (BBCIF), proved an overwhelming success on Friday morning, raising $3,400 in just four hours.
Units for senior citizens, disabled persons
By DENISE MAYCOCK
Man shot after argument at neighbour's house
By SANCHESKA BROWN
Two charged in connection with break-in that turned fatal
By NICO SCAVELLA
Two charged with murder, conspiracy
By NICO SCAVELLA
St Joseph's 10th anniversary mass
SISTER Cecilia Albury, staff and seniors of St Joseph’s Adult Care Centre have extended an invitation to the public to join them as they celebrate their tenth anniversary at mass at St Joseph Catholic Church, Boyd Road, tomorrow at 10am.
Man held for $12K cash stash
By DENISE MAYCOCK
Man robbed by trio at Coral Harbour
POLICE are appealing to the public for help in solving an armed robbery in the Coral Harbour area on Wednesday evening.
FNM Chairman questions why no further action over stolen vehicles
FREE National Movement Chairman Darron Cash questioned why no one has been charged more than two weeks after Customs and police officials revealed a seizure of more than $200,000 in stolen vehicles, ammunition and electronics in two containers shipped from the United States.
Christie fails to clarify Wells issue
PRIME Minister Perry Christie defended his capacity for making tough decisions in the House of Assembly yesterday while renewing his commitment to address the controversial signing of a letter of intent with a waste-to-energy company by Renward Wells.
$150,000 goal in battle to beat breast cancer
THE Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative Foundation is hoping to raise at least $150,000 this month for research and support for its education outreach programme in the country.
Govt to borrow $16m to fund COB transition to university
STATE Minister for Finance Michael Halkitis brought a resolution to the House of Assembly yesterday to borrow $16m to fund the College of the Bahamas’ transformation into a university.
Mystery over identity of man who died in police custody
POLICE Commissioner Ellison Greenslade yesterday said the man who died in police custody on Saturday was arrested after a businessman reported he was on his property.
Victim is killed by shot to the face
A MAN died in hospital on Wednesday hours after he was shot in the face, police said yesterday.
Davis: I’m not trying to undermine prime minister
DEPUTY Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday dismissed claims that he is trying to “undermine” Prime Minister Perry Christie in an effort to become PLP leader.
Three-week-old baby dies in power outage
POLICE are investigating the “sudden death” of an infant who died yesterday morning.
Man reportedly pulled knife after pursuit
A POLICE officer shot a break-in suspect who allegedly drew a knife on him after leading the officer on a foot chase through bushes off Prince Charles Drive yesterday morning.
Is this how to welcome people to the Bahamas?
DEPUTY Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday admitted that the landscaping along the Airport Gateway Project has “left much to be desired” but until the project is officially turned over to the government, he said the maintenance is the responsibly of the contractor.
Atlantis seeks out the best young students
STUDENTS attending the College of The Bahamas’ Oakes Field campus recently got a close-up view of the career options offered at Atlantis, Paradise Island.
Developer allowed to appeal troubled $30m PI condo sale
The developer of a distressed $30 million Paradise Island condominium project has been given permission to appeal the Supreme Court order permitting CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) to sell it.
Radio personalities 'dunking for boobies'
SOME OF the best known radio DJs and personalities in the Bahamas will be getting an early morning soaking today as Radio House, home to 100Jamz, Cool96 and Y98FM, partner with the Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative Foundation (BBCIF) for the ‘Dunking For Boobies’ event to help raise funds and promote breast cancer awareness month.
Tolerating bad staff undermines business
We have seemingly developed a culture of allowing major workplace infractions to go unresolved without consequences for those responsible.
Armed robbery case discontinued as two victims fail to appear in court
A DAY after requesting an adjournment, Crown prosecutors discontinued a case against two men accused of a 2011 armed robbery in the absence of two of the three victims.
Man in hospital after stabbing
A 38-year-old man is in hospital following a stabbing incident in Eight Mile Rock, Grand Bahama, on Wednesday police have reported.
Delay in sentence for woman convicted of killing boyfriend
THE sentencing of a woman, convicted of manslaughter in her boyfriend’s death, has been delayed because her lawyer has request an independent psychiatric evaluation be performed.
Grand Bahama call for govt to hold off over VAT
VALUE Added Tax is causing much concern among business owners and ordinary citizens in Grand Bahama who believe that government should hold off on its introduction.
CLUBS AND SOCIETIES - 10/03/14
Cycling Club Bahamas. - Upcoming Events: Saturday, November 1 - Conchman Tri-Taino Beach, Grand Bahama https://www.facebook.com/conchmantriathlon.
Bahamians get top mediation honours
Two Bahamians have obtained the advanced certificate in Trust and Estate Mediation, and lead the way among trained professionals for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) cases.
Sammie Swain a hit with nearly 15,000 tuning in for show
NEARLY 15,000 viewers tuned in to Cable 12 last Sunday to watch the television premiere of the celebrated Bahamian folk opera “The Legend of Sammie Swain”, E Clement Bethel’s timeless musical about a disabled Cat Island man who sells his soul to the Devil to be with the village beauty.
Network aims to tackle 'eroding moral foundation'
PASTOR Jeremiah Duncombe, former full-time pastor and president of The Bahamas Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists, launched the Bahamas Global Impact Prayer and Fasting Network (BGI-PAFN) yesterday to address what he sees as “an eroding of the moral foundation of our country”.
Wilson: VAT 'hiccups won't be catastrophic'
The Bahamas is doing everything possible to prevent inevitable Value-Added Tax (VAT) implementation “hiccups becoming catastrophic”, a leading businessman yesterday expressing confidence any difficulties would be “minor”.
'Criminal' wait for Bay Street height decision
The 10-month wait for a government decision on whether to lift downtown Nassau’s height restrictions was yesterday branded “criminal”, a leading realtor saying it was depressing property values and inhibiting investment proposals critical to the area’s revival.
Carnival eyes own Bahamas property
Carnival Cruise Lines is still looking to develop a Bahamas-based property of its own to diversify passenger experiences, its chief executive yesterday telling Tribune Business this destination was important to the cruise line’s future.
VAT 'not as difficult as people make out'
A well-known businessman yesterday said Value-Added Tax (VAT) implementation would not “be as difficult as people make it out to be”, warning that the Bahamas would be forced into currency devaluation without tax and fiscal reform.
BTC starts Out Island roll-out
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has unveiled the first of four Family Island retail stores that it will roll-out over the next two months.
BFSB selects Fair as lifetime honoree
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has selected Ian D. Fair as the recipient of its 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognises outstanding and sustained performance within the industry.
Downtown awaits 'three loop shuttle' approval
The Downtown Nassau Partnership (DNP) is awaitingthe Government’s response to its proposed “three loop shuttle system”, its project manager yesterday disclosing that approval would lead to the introduction of revenue-raising parking meters.
Delroy making a name for himself with the Knights
SINCE joining the Niagara College Knights men’s basketball team, Delroy Grandison has been making a name for himself.
'Daunting task' for VAT education team
The VAT Education Task Force has “a daunting task” to ready all businesses for the new tax by January 1, one of its members admitted yesterday, but was already devising strategies to speed the process up.
Bad loans breach $1.4bn threshold
Total commercial bank loan arrears breached the $1.4 billion mark at end-August 2014, the Central Bank of the Bahamas has revealed, with almost 23 per cent of all outstanding credit now in default.
Thursday, October 2
Airport road a disgrace
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Comets get 9-3 victory over the Hurricanes
By BRENT STUBBS
Briefly
LONDON — A mural by the artist Banksy satirising racism has been removed by the governing council of a British town where the anti-immigration UK Independence Party hopes to win its first parliamentary seat — after a complaint that the painting itself was “offensive and racist.”
Where is the flip flop?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Port Backs licensees on 'Freeport services VAT'
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has sided with its licensees and the island’s Chamber of Commerce, after receiving a legal opinion that Value-Added Tax (VAT) should not be levied on services transactions in Freeport.
DNA gives a lesson to the FNM
EDITOR, The Tribune.
PM failing to address important issues
EDITOR, The Tribune.
4.30pm SEVERE WEATHER WARNING
THE BAHAMAS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY HAS ISSUED A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING WITH EFFECT FROM 4:00 PM EDT UNTIL 6:00 PM THURSDAY.
Justices criticise lawyers for constant requests for delays in appeal cases
A LAWYER’S request for additional time to prepare her client’s appeal against conviction and the death sentence for a paid execution, drew the ire of Court of Appeal judges yesterday.
Skeletal remains are found on Abaco
HUMAN skeletal remains, discovered on Abaco this week, have been flown to New Providence for laboratory testing and evaluation, according to a senior police official on the island.
Workers were unpaid since August robbery
V ALFRED Gray, MP for MICAL, admitted yesterday that government workers in Mayaguana have not been paid since August, but said the Treasury refused to release the salaries until the island “tightened up its security”.
DNA protests the 'death of democracy'
NEARLY 200 Democratic National Alliance supporters, led by DNA leader Branville McCartney, protested in Rawson Square yesterday over what they called a “death of democracy” caused by the Christie administration.
Defiant Rollins refuses to apologise
FORT Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins will not publicly apologise to Prime Minister Perry Christie for criticising him despite PLP general council members urging him to do so.
MP makes accusation in House
FORT Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins believes Bamboo Town MP Renward Wells is a victim of a leadership struggle between Prime Minister Perry Christie and at least one other member of the PLP.
Four men sought for robberies
POLICE are asking for help in locating four men in connection with four separate armed robberies on Tuesday.
Investment tips for young Bahamians
YOUNG Bahamians from New Providence, Andros and Grand Bahama are being introduced to investment techniques so they can get a better understanding of the value and management of money by leading sector company, Colina Financial Advisors Ltd (CFAL).
New Providence hotels have paid up, says Miller
NEW Providence hoteliers have made good on outstanding electricity bills, but an Abaco hotel is still in high arrears, Bahamas Electricity Corporation Chairman Leslie Miller confirmed yesterday.
Contractor 'grind' over Baha Mar pay delays
Bahamian contractors yesterday disclosed it was “a grind” to obtain timely payment for work done on the $3.5 billion Baha Mar project, with waits up to 90-120 days hitting cash flow and eating into already-thin profit margins.
No evidence over death threat claim, says lawyer
A LAWYER told The Tribune yesterday that there was no evidence to substantiate death threat claims made against a prosecutor or a murder charge against his client.
Urban Renewal launches workshop and rally to try to reduce violence
THE Urban Renewal Commission has announced a violence workshop and a youth rally as a part of a raft of initiatives planned for National Youth Month.
Pupils given an early introduction to painting and decorating
ELEVEN boys from L W Young Junior School have been chosen to participate in a dual enrolment programme at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute to be introduced to the skills of painting and decorating.
Parents keep children out of school
PARENTS on Grand Cay staged a demonstration and kept their children out of school on Tuesday to protest the shortage of teachers at the island’s government school.
Better beach access and more state parks pledged by minister
ENVIRONMENT Minister Kenred Dorsett yesterday pledged the government’s commitment to improving access to beaches and increasing the number of state-managed parks.
Campaigner calls on PM to live up to his words
A LEADING environmentalist yesterday called the Prime Minister’s address to the United Nations Climate Change summit “disingenuous, claiming that more has to be done by Bahamians to reduce the threat in coming years.
No new date for equality bills to be tabled in Parliament
NATIONAL Security Minister Dr Bernard Nottage yesterday said he could not forecast when the constitutional bills for a referendum on gender equality will be passed in the House of Assembly.
Smith’s salary at COB ‘to be in line with former presidents’
EDUCATION Minister Jerome Fitzgerald yesterday reiterated that the terms of Dr Rodney Smith’s contract as the new College of the Bahamas president will “remain reasonable” and in line with that of former presidents.
SAC in 13-1 rout over QC
THE St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine are poised to contend for a fourth Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools junior girls’ softball title.
Ready to respond to Ebola risk
THE risk of an Ebola outbreak in the Bahamas is still relatively low despite reports that the United States has confirmed its first case, an international health official said.
NFL Picks - Week 5: 'Just give Thursday to the women and their Scandal and pack it up guys'
The “What I do have, are a very particular set of skills. Skills I’ve acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for the people like you” Award presented by Liam Neeson and the “Taken” trilogy - Steve Smith
Anti-corruption team complete three-day visit
THE Organisation of American States’ Anti-Corruption Mechanism last week conducted a three-day on-site assessment of the Bahamas on the implementation of a convention against corruption in the lead-up to the enactment of new gaming regulations.
'Outstanding women' honoured
SCORES of Bahamian women were honoured yesterday for being “outstanding women of the Bahamas” during Celebrating Woman International’s inaugural event for its Women of Distinction & Women of Excellence awards.
ON DA HOOK
MONSTER fish either caught or photographed in the Bahamas are capturing the interest of USA Today readers in their thousands and the fourth slideshow released by the Bahamas Sport Fishing Network (BSFN) this week is set to build on that success.
Motivational speaking event
A LIVE leadership simulcast featuring world-renowned motivational speakers, including John Maxwell, will take place in Grand Bahama tomorrow.
VAT policy conflict with Price Control
The Government’s revised Value-Added Tax (VAT) ‘inclusive pricing’ conflicts with the Price Control Act, a leading retailer yesterday warning it would create “tremendous consumer confusion” and unnecessary multi-million dollar spending.
Appeal Court eliminates PI condo sale obstacle
The Court of Appeal has removed one obstacle to the potential sale of a multi-million dollar Paradise Island condominium project, upholding the grant of a key easement right to it.
'Tragic' Bahamas surpassed by trade model it pioneered
The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday said it was “tragic and ironic” that other countries had used the model pioneered by Freeport to surpass this nation as international free trade zones.
Gov't urged: Clarify VAT treatment for physical office IBCs
The Government was yesterday urged to clarify the Value-Added Tax (VAT) approach to International Business Companies (IBCs) with a physical presence in the Bahamas, and if financial institutions can ‘apportion’ inputs between different tax treatments.
FATCA to catch trust companies, trustees
Financial institutions must determine their classification under the US Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), a US-based attorney said yesterday, warning that they could be subject to penalties or excluded as a Non-Financial Foreign Entity (NFFE).
Bahamas-China air services deal 'pivotal'
The Air Services Agreement being negotiated between the Bahamas and China is “pivotal” to opening a direct gateway to Asia for this nation’s tourism industry, a senior Baha Mar executive said yesterday.
DEMETRIUS IS NAMED X-MEN SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK
VERSATILE defensive back Demetrius Ferguson continues to excel in his senior season with the St Francis Xavier X-Men football programme.
Wednesday, October 1
Pastor celebrates four years in ministry
Overseer Pastor Janean Hart, of Soul Winning United Church of God In Christ, celebrated her fourth anniversary under the theme “I Am Persuaded” taken from 2 Timothy 1:10-13 at a service last week. In attendance were Apostle G Anthony Chisholm of New Beginning Church; Pastor Val Nesbitt of Church of God, Dundas Town Abaco; Bishop G Elton Major, jurisdictional prelate for UCOGIC Bahamas and Senior Pastor of Lion of the Judah Kingdom Embassy.
What now for Rollins?
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Equestrian Bahamas' end of year awards ceremony a success
LAST Saturday was an evening of celebration and fellowship for Bahamian equestrians when the Equestrian Bahamas Federation held its 2013-2014 End of Year Awards Ceremony at La H�pica Restaurant on Nelson Road in western New Providence.
Gov't 'fuels' VAT impact mitigation
By NATARIO MCKENZIE
Persuading clients to see his vision
Do you believe that the only time we should ever look back in life is to see how far we have come? This is certainly something to ponder, considering the many challenges, failures and disappointments that sometimes seem to follow us daily.
Shocked by salary demand of $400,000
EDITOR, The Tribune.
Miss Cultural Bahamas Contestants attends church service
THE contestants in this year’s Miss Cultural Bahamas pageant attended a special church service at Judea Baptist Church on Sunday.
Myles Munroe to host leadership forum in Freeport
AS THE demand on global leaders continues to increase with the relentless issues that face them, their leadership skills and time-tested values are constantly pressured.
One Night With the KIng Miracle Crusade
THE power of prayer will be demonstrated during the second annual “One Night With The King Miracle Crusade” on Sunday, hosted by the nation’s singing Bishop Lawrence Rolle at the British Colonial Hilton.
Seeking the true meaning of a national celebration
By REV CANON SEBASTIAN CAMPBELL
Pastors Of Prayer renew resolve at anniversary service
By ALESHA CADET
Comfort for the bereaved
By REV ANGELA PALACIOUS
Arson feared, entire school could have burned down says official
THE Grand Bahama Academy was closed for some 250 students after a fire yesterday morning damaged some of the classrooms, the kitchen and the cafeteria.
Happy Jewish New Year
ROSH Hashanah, a major date in the Jewish calendar, was marked in Nassau on Wednesday evening when Rabbi Sholom Bluming, the Bahamas’ first full time Rabbi, led a celebration at the Sandals Resort at Cable Beach.
Sands admits harm from FNM infighting
FNM deputy chairman Dr Duane Sands said the “infighting” within the Free National Movement is a “public relations nightmare” that is distracting the country from “the government’s dismal performance.”
Mitchell says environment, crime and illegal immigration are top concerns
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday highlighted the country’s top three concerns as the environment, violent crime, and illegal immigration during his address to the 69th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
FNM Deputy: Leader didn't want me as his second-in-command
FNM Deputy Leader Loretta Butler-Turner revealed for the first time yesterday that party chief Dr Hubert Minnis initially did not want her as his second-in-command.
Webshop consultants could be hired for a year
TWO international gaming consultants could settle in for a year-long training initiative to transition webshops into a regulated market as early as next week.
Man jailed for seven years after raping 12-year-old girl
A MAN facing life imprisonment for inappropriate contact and the rape of a 12-year-old girl walked away from the Supreme Court with a seven-year sentence yesterday.
$400,000 salary for college president defended by teaching union chief
UNION of Tertiary Educators of the Bahamas President Mark Humes is pushing back against the “excessively harsh criticism” Dr Rodney Smith is receiving after it was revealed he requested a salary of $400,000 as the next president of the College of the Bahamas.
Refusal to give details over custody death ‘unprecedented’
LAWYER Christina Galanos yesterday raised concerns about the recent death of a man in police custody saying the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s refusal to release details could spark speculation “that police brutality was involved”.
'Sorry may not be enough for Rollins'
PLP CHAIRMAN Bradley Roberts said yesterday even if Fort Charlotte MP Dr Andre Rollins apologises to the Prime Minister in the House of Assembly today, there is “still a lot more” he has to do before his fate in the party is decided.
Show your ambition with Absolut Art
ART AND Absolut Vodka has enjoyed a happy marriage for decades and to develop a closer relationship with the local art community The Burns House Group has launched the Absolut Art Ambition competition, where local artists are challenged to create works of art inspired by the brand.
Paradise Plates a success
THIS year’s Paradise Plates has been voted a success as guests sipped and sampled some of the finest cuisines and drinks the island has to offer.
One step closer to forming new link with sister city
CAT Island is one step closer to a “mutually beneficial” Sister Cities relationship with Richton Park, Illinois, after a recent four-day visit to the United States.
TOUGH CALL: Of politics and high society in Bahamian days gone by
MY reading list recently has included two personal memoirs by individuals connected to the Bahamas.
Man wanted by police
GRAND Bahama Police are searching for Bernard Jerome Ferguson, aka “Jerome”, who is wanted for questioning on seven counts of stealing from a dwelling house, causing major damage, and trespassing.
Hearing date set for man's rape conviction appeal
THE Court of Appeal yesterday gave a substantive appeal hearing date for a man who maintains he did not attempt to rape a woman who hitched a ride from him after a cancelled prayer meeting.
Rape suspect diagnosed as schizophrenic denied bail
A MAN previously diagnosed as “schizophrenic” sought bail for the second time ahead of his trial in connection with the rape of a 17-year-old American girl in San Salvador.
‘Wolf’ on the water: Former elite cyclist Randy Albury forms kayaking club
From cycling to kayaking, Randy ‘Wolf’ Albury has made a transition in sports.
'Lawsuit guaranteed' over VAT 'claw back'
A well-known QC yesterday “guaranteed litigation” against the Government, as fears deepened among Freeport’s private sector that it is using Value-Added Tax (VAT) to “claw back” previous court rulings that upheld the Hawksbill Creek Agreement.
Educator appointed to key role at Lyford Cay
JOANNA Paul, an experienced educator with an extensive leadership background in California and the Bahamas, has been appointed Development Director of Lyford Cay International School as it prepares for the expansion of the secondary school.
Paint a plate for Halloween
IT’S THEIR goal at Paint Your Own Pottery (PYOP) to not only create traditional pieces, but keep up to date with seasonal art as well.
Fun, food and games with Special Olympics
FOR the fifth consecutive year, the US Embassy in Nassau partnered with Special Olympics Bahamas to host the annual Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day celebration.
Hailing the heroes
A SHORTLIST of 25 past and present residents to be considered for recognition for significant contributions to the community has been announced by the Bain and Grants Town Advancement Association as it prepares to celebrates its third annual Heroes Week.
Construction of hospital stalled
RESIDENTS of Marsh Harbour, Abaco, yesterday complained that stalled construction on a community hospital and the government’s disregard for the local clinic in the area has forced them to cope with “substandard medical facilities.”
Costume creators promise a high-energy Carnival
IF LAST Saturday was any indication of what the 2015 Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival is going to depict, then Tribune Entertainment can say that it will be filled with bright colours, high energy and live entertainment with fun at the centre of it all.
Acrobats and stilt walkers will bring carnival to fever pitch
MEMBERS of the Cirque Fever Junkanoo carnival company will not only be gyrating to the vibrant rhythms during the Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival 2015, but will feature circus skills such as stilt walkers, acrobats and jugglers in the parade.
Top musicians to promote unity during concert
WITH such a huge following in the Bahamas, organisers of the first Unity Fest expect that concert goers will be thoroughly entertained when the event featuring some of the hottest reggae/dancehall acts kicks off on Saturday.
'Headed for chaos' on VAT-inclusive pricing
Super Value’s owner yesterday warned the Government it was still “headed for chaos” by insisting on Value-Added Tax (VAT) ‘inclusive pricing’, even though retailers had been granted a two-month compliance ‘extension’.
Bahamas praised for 'not fighting' regulatory change
The Bahamas’ decision to “work with change rather than fight it” has left this nation well-positioned to deal with FATCA and other global regulatory initiatives, an international tax planning expert said yesterday.
Miami law firm in Bahamas tax advisory set-up
A well-known Miami law firm is aiming to open a niche Bahamian tax advisory and structuring affiliate “within 12 months”, targeting a local market it believes will eventually “grow into something far larger”.
'Gov't made Freeport like rest of Bahamas'
The Government’s “redirection” of Freeport’s economic model has resulted in the city becoming indistinguishable from the rest of the Bahamas, eliminating its natural advantages and global focus.
Luna lights up to Lady Saw and K Camp
HUNDREDS of Bahamians flocked to the Luna Nightclub last weekend to celebrate Arthur’s Guinness Day in grand style.
Top quarter-miler to join Pure Athletics Club
AFTER spending the past year and-a-half at the University of Georgia under the supervision of coach George Cleare, quarter-miler Shaunae Miller is packing her bags to head to a new location under a different coach.
Oil exploration can be a 'game changer'
As Bahamian marketing consultants with a history of serving international clients, we are strongly convinced and satisfied that the Government’s commitment to bring new regulations relative to the Bahamas Petroleum Company’s (BPC) efforts to explore for oil presents a win-win situation for the country.
Cheek.y makes headlines with intimates shopping
BAHAMIAN boutique store, Cheek.y Intimate Apparel, has been featured for the first time in a popular, international designer magazine, The Best of Intima.
Gov't targets Nov 30 for mandatory VAT registration closure
The Government is aiming to register 4,500 businesses over the $100,000 mandatory Value-Added Tax (VAT), a Cabinet minister said yesterday, revealing the four-member private sector Task Force expected to oversee the public education campaign.
Sports in brief
IN the continuing effort by The Bahamas Olympic Committee to develop and recognise athletic talent throughout the entire Bahamas, Moore’s Island athlete Shane Jones was among the recipients of the BOC’s coveted Olympic Scholarships.
MARKETING REVOLUTION: Adding value to win international clients
I just came back from a book signing and seminar in Boston. As they read off my accolades in introducing me, they talked about me being in the field for 33 years. People in the audience were from the US, Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. They had bought books and videos from me, either online or direct, over the past 20 years. And here they were buying another book. They called me a legend. I thought to myself: “I’ve built an international audience right from Nassau.”
Bahamas ready to sign Canadian trade deal
CARICOM has yet to decide whether to allow member states in agreement with the new Canada trade deal to sign-on, a Cabinet Minister said, with the Bahamas ready to do just that.
Special Olympics Bahamas swim programme comes to a close
SPECIAL Olympics Bahamas (New Providence) recently brought its 2014 local swim programme to a close after four months of training.
Businesses brace for VAT surprises
Several businesses said yesterday they were bracing for a sales slowdown and increased costs as a result of Value-Added Tax (VAT), with one auto dealer telling this newspaper he anticipated an increase in used car sales.
