Monday, August 31
SCHOOLS OUT: New term delayed ’til Oct 5 - and then only virtual classes
SCHOOLS across the country will now reopen on October 5 with virtual learning only for the islands of New Providence, Abaco and Eleuthera, Minister of Education Jeff Lloyd announced Monday.
Miller-Uibo shuts down season
In her second straight meet, Bahamian Olympian 400 metre champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo was unable to complete the finals of her event, prompting her to put a lid on the coronavirus-laden track and field season on Saturday.
INSIGHT: The right call, yes. But it’s down to each one of us to get it right this time?
PRIOR to the Prime Minister’s address last week, as rumours flew around the country about a potential week-long lockdown, Dr Hubert Minnis surprised us all. A shocking but much welcomed course reversal was in order. Following what would have been a 21-day lockdown had the competent authority not had a change of heart, we are now in the process of a phased opening.
INSIGHT: No problem, Mr Dames? Abaco residents disagree
For months, reports have leaked out of Abaco of increasing levels of crime which are leaving residents on the main island and surround cars desperate.
INSIGHT: One year on
A YEAR after Hurricane Dorian made landfall in Grand Bahama, the island is still declared as a disaster zone with many residents and businesses picking up the pieces.
Marijuana field discovered in Abaco
A TEAM of officers from the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Defense Force found a marijuana field in Abaco on Saturday. According to a police report, shortly after 9am, a team of officers acting on information, went to an area calle
Defence Force recruits quarantined as training halts
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force has discontinued new entry training due to the “quick spread of COVID-19” among its latest intake of recruits. “New entry training has been discontinued at this time, to allow the proper management and treatment of th
Tragedy of new mum Shakinah
A WOMAN is looking for answers after her daughter, who tested positive for COVID-19, died in Princess Margaret Hospital shortly after giving birth.
SUNDAY UPDATE: 32 new COVID-19 cases, three deaths under investigation
The Ministry of Health reported that there were 32 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 and three additional deaths being investigated on Sunday.
Body found off Carmichael Road
POLICE discovered a body in bushes in the Carmichael Road area Sunday afternoon.
National debt reaches $8.24bn
The Ministry of Finance has revealed that the national debt has ballooned to $8.24bn for the fiscal year 2019/2020 in its fourth quarter fiscal snapshot. This places government debt at 68.4 percent of GDP, up from $7.527bn in fiscal year 2018/2019.
Fiscal deficit soars 259%
The government’s deficit widened by 259 percent from last year’s $788m, the Ministry of Finance has revealed.
Jitney’s to resume today following protest
A public transportation stakeholder is excited to be “back in swing” as jitneys will be allowed to operate with limited capacity today after the second COVID-19 related shutdown in six months.
Hayward family vow commitment
The family of the late Sir Jack Hayward insist a new legal fight over fees owed to them from their father’s estate will not impact their commitment to the Grand Bahama Port Authority.
Treasury revenues slumped 55% in year's final quarter
THE COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to a 55.2 percent contraction in receipts across taxed industries, according to the Ministry of Finance’s budgetary performance report for the fourth quarter of the 2019/2020 fiscal year.
Court rejects grandmother killer's appeal
A MAN who was sentenced to 40 years in prison for stabbing his grandmother to death seven years ago has lost his appeal over the matter.
Can YOU do more to beat this thing?
WHILE announcing more businesses are allowed to operate beginning today under relaxed measures, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis urged people not to let their guards down especially in New Providence where COVID-19 cases remain high.
Dorian pledges - just $109k in cash
SEVEN months after the Hurricane Dorian Pledging Conference was held, a government official said of the $1.77bn in pledges received at January’s event only $109,000 were actual cash donations.
Beach party organisers face being prosecuted
THE people responsible for hosting a beach party near Sweeting’s Cay over the weekend will be brought to court for organising a large public gathering in breach of the COVID-19 emergency orders, police said.
In tribute to Mr Justice Neville Smith
Grateful if you would publish this tribute in memory of Mr. Justice Neville L Smith (ret.): “It is a far, far better thing that I do, than anything I have ever done; it is a far, far, better rest that I go to, than I have ever known.” – Charles Dickens.
Appreciating aid workers
Humanitarians overcome unprecedented access hurdles to assist people in humanitarian crises in 54 countries as well as in a further nine countries which have been catapulted into humanitarian need by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Velocity Fest: Strachan second in 200m
COMING off her last meet on her 27th birthday when she was unable to finish her 100 metre race because of the cramps, Bahamian sprinter Anthonique Strachan returned to action on Saturday with another second place behind Jamaican double Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah.
Lucius Fox: ‘Ready to work. KC you’re getting my all’
LUCIUS Fox had a simple message for the Kansas City Royals fan base after he was traded to the team last week:
Potter’s cay vendors in lackluster return
Two thirds of the Potter’s Cay vendors are not coming back to work today, citing serious financial challenges.
Sunday, August 30
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 30th August: Freeport
STARTS: 08/30/2020 1:25 PM EDT EXPIRES: 08/30/2020 3:30 PM EDT
Saturday, August 29
78 new COVID-19 cases reported on Saturday
The Ministry of Health reported on Saturday that there were 78 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Friday, August 28
'Black Panther' star Chadwick Boseman dies of cancer at 43
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Actor Chadwick Boseman, who played Black icons Jackie Robinson and James Brown before finding fame as the regal Black Panther in the Marvel cinematic universe, died Friday of cancer, his representative said. He was 43.
Dr Philip Thompson dies age 72
The sudden passing of Dr Philip Thompson has been described as a major loss not only to the medical community, but also to the culture of Junkanoo on Grand Bahama.
$10m allocated for PMH renovations
THE government has allocated ten million dollars for renovations to be completed at the Princess Margaret Hospital, Health Minister Renward Wells announced on Friday.
Officials believe cases “are levelling”
DESPITE a recent uptick of positive COVID-19 cases in New Providence, Chief Medical Officer Dr Pearl McMillan said data has shown that the island is experiencing a reduction of infected cases.
COVID phased approach will rely on metrics
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has suggested that in order for omni buses in the country to again operate, certain health metrics have to be met in the country’s COVID-19 fight.
PM says Dorian clean-up essentially 'completed'
NEARLY a year after Hurricane Dorian devastated Abaco and Grand Bahama, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said clean-up is essentially “complete” on those islands.
Derelict vehicles in Freeport under notice for removal
Over 160 derelict vehicles in Freeport residential areas are under notice for removal to a designated disposal site identified by the Grand Bahama Port Authority.
Woman violated curfew 'to clear her head'
A magistrate on Friday discharged a woman who claimed she violated the curfew because she needed to go for a walk to “clear her head”.
Fined for marijuana possession
A 25-year-old man who was caught with an ounce of marijuana was fined $700 in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Man jailed for stealing woman's car battery
A 30-year-old man who stole and sold a woman’s car battery to make money to buy drugs was sentenced to nine months in prison on Friday.
EDITORIAL: We haven't tackled obesity - and now it's proving our downfall
WHEN it comes to the fight against COVID-19, our past failings are coming back to haunt us.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Down on the farm . . .
Farmer Minnis heard the cries of the animals on the farm. He knew they were angry and waiting for a solution to the COVID pandemic.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Sean Connery reaches landmark age
An irresistible ladies’ man but with family at his heart
The first time I met Sean Connery he knew exactly who I was, much to my shock. I was flattered. That was before he lashed into me, transforming me into an ant looking for a rock to crawl under. His unmistakable deep-throated baritone mixed with Scottish brogue came barrelling at me to let me know I had made a mistake in something I wrote.
20,000 backyard farming kits for Grand Bahama
Minister of Agriculture Michael Pintard is on target to distributing 20,000 backyard kits on Grand Bahama as part of an “aggressive” backyard farming programme recently launched by the government.
Celebrating 150 years
ST Paul’s Baptist Church on Bernard Road will celebrate its 150th anniversary this Sunday.
Magistrate urges public to be more careful
DEPUTY Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes yesterday urged the public to “exercise better judgment” to avoid being brought before the courts for violating the emergency orders.
SMES in Grand Bahama grateful Minnis made the changes
A SMALL business operator in Grand Bahama said the community is grateful the government listened to their concerns about lockdowns impacting their livelihoods, however he said beauticians and nail technicians on the island are upset they are still barred from resuming work.
Bishop tells people to follow safety guidelines
ANGLICAN Archbishop Laish Boyd is urging people to take COVID-19 safety guidelines seriously, saying we must “practice the protocols or face destruction”.
$30m spent on Dorian clean-up
Despite the challenges on Dorian stricken Abaco and Grand Bahama, more than $30m has been spent on clean up says the Disaster Reconstruction Authority (DRA) managing director.
BPL told to get it together
A Chamber director has called on Bahamas Power & Light to “get it together” over power outages after the latest blackout affecting the eastern part of New Providence.
Bills rack up but gyms stay closed
One gym owner has racked up expenses totalling $50,000 that are due in September as he laments his sector not being allowed to reopen on August 31.
Dorian donations just $1.14m so far
Over $250m in fundraising for Hurricane Dorian reconstruction is still awaiting to be confirmed with the Disaster Reconstruction Authority only receiving $1.14m to date.
Hair industry asks 'Why leave us out?'
It’s “egregious” that hair salons and barbers were left out of the August 31 reopening plan and they want to know why.
Philip ‘Brave’ Davis discharged from hospital
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip Brave Davis was discharged from Emory University Hospital in Atlanta on Thursday.
97 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Thursday
The Ministry of Health reported that there were 97 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, with two more deaths under investigation.
ZERO TOLERANCE: Senior doctors alarmed over death toll demand rigid use of COVID rules
CONSULTANT physicians are disheartened by the alarming number of patient deaths related to COVID-19, sparked by an exponential increase in cases since the country re-opened its borders.
OBESITY LINK TO COVID FATALITIES: Shock study reveals ‘scary’ risk to people with weight problems
A new international study has revealed that obesity increases the risk of COVID-19 deaths by nearly 50 percent.
Unhealthy lifestyle to blame
Of the 184 countries listed on the Global COVID-19 Index (GCI) Recovery Dashboard, The Bahamas finds itself ranked dead last, with Denmark, Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, Latvia, Taiwan, Canada, New Zealand, Finland and the United Kingdom all being ranked in the top ten. Many of these countries would be classified as either developed or first world, as all of them are allies of the United States, with Canada, the United Kingdom, Latvia and Denmark being members of NATO. Our most important and strategic ally, the United States, ranks 132.
Ten hours without power for one pole!
SOME residents of Eastern New Providence were left without power for more than 10 hours after a car accident damaged a Bahamas Power and Light pole on Bernard Road.
Another elderly drug mule deported
A SWISS man who spent nine months on remand for importing $50,000 worth of cocaine into the country was yesterday turned over to the Department of Immigration for deportation.
Dorian shelter finally closed
AFTER months of being open to accommodate displaced Hurricane Dorian victims, all shelters in New Providence have now been officially deactivated.
All the virus secrets are revealed in the numbers
Being a Philomath and in particular a Matholephile, I created a mathematic model for the Bahamas’s Coronavirus cases and death. This is not accurate but it gives a ball park figure. It is similar to predicting the weather; things could change but there is a high probability it will occur.
Relatives waiting for test results
RELATIVES of a police reservist are awaiting the results of the woman’s COVID-19 test to determine if she had the disease when she died.
Shortstop Fox traded to Royals
Lucius Fox has been traded for the second time in his young baseball career.
Ballin’ By Da Beach first virtual basketball camp ends today
BALLIN’ By Da Beach Basketball Camp’s new venture has been a resounding success over the course of the week as it engaged with hundreds of participants virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Godet to take up assistant coaching job in Rome
CHRISTOPHER Godet, one of the Bahamas men’s national soccer team players, is leaving town today to return to Rome, Italy to take up an assistant coaching job and resume his semi professional career as a player.
Thursday, August 27
EDITORIAL: What is the course for the ship of state?
THERE’S some political sparring afoot. As readers of today’s Tribune can see, the deputy leaders of the FNM and PLP are taking potshots at one another.
STATESIDE: Out of the White House shadows at last we saw something presidential emerge - Melania Trump
Looking back, maybe we should have seen it coming. But it was quite unexpected. It was unethical if not yet illegal. And it might yet prove to be a real turning point.
FRONT PORCH: Make no mistake - we’re all in this fight and have to work together
“We have to move from ‘they should’ to “we should’. We have to move from ‘they say’ to ‘we say’.” – Prime Minister Hubert Minnis
Four survive as aircraft crashes
A GROUP from Abaco is lucky to be alive after their small aircraft crashed into water off Treasure Cay yesterday morning just after takeoff.
What the latest emergency powers allow
THE Minnis administration’s latest emergency order reveals which businesses will be allowed to resume operations as the country eases lockdown restrictions.
Fusion to roll again as soon as government permits
DESPITE being shuttered for the last five months, Fusion Superplex will reopen once the government gives the nod for cinemas to operate.
Nurse 'had to pay for private COVID test'
A NURSE at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre who has COVID-19 says she had to pay $224 for testing at a private facility after waiting since August 10 for her results at the South Beach Clinic.
Bahamasair chief says company’s financial state is ‘very rough’
BAHAMASAIR chairman Tommy Turnquest yesterday described the national airline’s current financial state of affairs due to the COVID-19 pandemic as being “very rough,” adding that officials are anxiously awaiting the government’s greenlight on the resumption of domestic and international travel.
Tributes to former FNM chairman Johnlee Ferguson
FAMILY, friends and political colleagues of former Free National Movement (FNM) chairman Johnlee Ferguson paid tribute yesterday to a man they said had great love for his country and made many contributions to society.
Moody's: GDP down by a fifth
Moody’s expects a 22 percent contraction in GDP in 2020, citing high unemployment and a near tourism collapse in 2020.
Two-year risk to nation's credit
Downside risk to the country’s credit profile will remain for the next two years, ratings agency Moody’s warns as it keeps the country’s sovereign credit rating to Ba2 with a negative outlook.
Sharp rise in households with income below minimum wage
THE number of households reporting an income below the minimum wage in April nearly trebled, according to an Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) report.
700 Wines & Spirits brings back curbside
A major retail liquor store chain will be ready to operate curbside as commercial activity restarts on August 31.
110 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Wednesday
The Ministry of Health reported that there were 110 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday.
Jitney drivers ask 'What about us?'
Jitney drivers are “totally irate” and “sorely displeased” after being left out of the latest emergency powers orders that allowed for commercial activity to resume on August 31.
NO CHARGES FOR LOCKDOWN DEMO: Out-of-court deal stops prosecution and avoids arrested suing police
THE people arrested last week for protesting New Providence’s immediate seven-day lockdown will not be charged in court, according to attorney Wayne Munroe, QC, one of the lawyers representing the group.
Cooper calls on govt to detail state of treasury
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party deputy leader Chester Cooper yesterday called on the government to provide a report on the current state of the Public Treasury and all loan agreements approved for this year.
Jobs crisis hits church funding
RELIANCE on the church has grown “exponentially” amid the country’s COVID-19 outbreak, a reality that has created challenges across the board, according to Bahamas Christian Council President Bishop Delton Fernander.
Spanish woman, 73, was cocaine mule
AN elderly Spanish woman who was arraigned earlier this year in connection with the seizure of 12 pounds of cocaine was yesterday released to the Department of Immigration for deportation after spending five months in custody.
Looking to spring next year
With the NCAA Division II 2020 Fall Championships cancelled, Bahamian football players will have to look to spring 2021 to complete their collegiate careers on the gridiron.
Miller Jr granted NCAA waiver for immediate eligibility
WHEN the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles take to the court for the 2021 season, Franco Miller Jr could have an immediate impact with the programme.
Now we're on the right road, we can begin hard task of rebuilding
The Prime Minister outdid himself during his national address this past Monday. Clearly he has a new crew of advisers and I am especially pleased to note that Dr. Dayl-Regis is back in the loop as lead spokesperson for the health protocols and management of the pandemic on behalf of the Bahamian people and the administration.
Drilling for oil in The Bahamas would be a disaster
The recent oil spill on the southeast coast of Mauritius is a reminder that drilling for oil in The Bahamas is a recipe for disaster.
Man violates curfew to charge ankle bracelet
A 27-year-old man who claimed he violated New Providence’s curfew because he went to get the adapter to charge his ankle bracelet was fined $500 yesterday.
Fined for cocaine possession
A man who officers seized nearly ten ounces of cocaine from on Tuesday was fined $5,000 in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Teenager given bail ahead of trial
A teenager who was accused of hacking into a man’s social media account was yesterday granted bail ahead of her trial.
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line to pay $875,000 back wages
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line will pay back wages totalling $875,000, which were owed to the crew while they were stuck on board their ships over the past two months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
'VAT holiday? Who's buying uniform for virtual school?'
Retailers are not enthused about the back to school value added tax (VAT) holiday set to run from August 31 to September 20.
Setback on recovery as cases soar again by 110
THE Bahamas recorded 110 additional COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, pushing the nation’s count up to press time to a staggering 1,923.
Wednesday, August 26
Row ends in fatal stabbing
POLICE are investigating a stabbing incident that occurred on Tuesday night which left a man dead.
EDITORIAL: Is a level playing field really the best way?
WITH the country on course to start to reopen next week, when will the borders fully reopen?
ALICIA WALLACE: Scratching your head trying to work out what really changed in seven days? Me too
Last week, the Prime Minister announced a seven-day lockdown to start immediately due to the rise in COVID-19 cases. The next day, he reversed the decision because, as should have been obvious, people were not prepared for it. He said various business could operate “until further notice”, but never gave any indication of plans to announce another lockdown.
Union chief congratulates PM on changes
BAHAMAS Public Service Union president Kimsley Ferguson yesterday praised Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for relaxing the COVID-19 restrictions in New Providence, saying the move will bring much needed relief to the business community. He also said
Mixed views on reopening plans
THE business community had mixed reaction yesterday to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ announcement of an ease in lockdown restrictions starting next week. Arawak Cay vendors previously complained about getting shafted by the government during the
‘No VAT cut’ after lockdown
The deputy prime minister said that there will be no tax cuts or additional incentives for businesses coming out of the COVID-19 lockdown.
Back to school VAT holiday 'still on table'
The deputy prime minister said that the back to school value added tax (VAT) tax holiday is “absolutely” still on the table to help citizens during this difficult times brought on by the COVID-19 shutdown.
Restaurants happy to reopen – but say revenue will be halved
Restaurants are “excited” to be able to reopen on August 31, but the restrictions still means more than half in revenue losses.
Essential businesses see trade down by half
Business has fallen by 50 percent and is beginning to slow down even more at essential services businesses during the COVID-19 lockdown.
15 more cases of COVID-19, two deaths under investigation
THE Ministry of Health recorded 15 additional COVID-19 cases yesterday with two more deaths under investigation.
TRAVEL BAN TO STAY TWO MORE MONTHS? Tourism pressure remains as foreign flights may be off until end of October
DESPITE most businesses in New Providence being set to re-open on Monday, Finance Minister Peter Turnquest said he anticipates it will still take several weeks until the government fully re-opens the country’s borders allowing for the resumption of domestic and international travel in all islands.
‘Vendors criminal records should now be wiped clean’
AN ATTORNEY and activist have urged the government to expunge the records of street coconut vendors who were charged and fined for breaking emergency orders, insisting Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ plan to offer them grants to advance their businesses does not go far enough.
Where’s the plan on what we do next?
A FINANCIAL expert contended yesterday that the government’s comprehensive long-term post-coronavirus plan should already have been presented to Bahamians.
Police COVID cases were inevitable
THE number of COVID-19 cases in the Royal Bahamas Police Force is “trending downward significantly”, according to National Security Minister Marvin Dames, who said active cases among officers now stand at three.
Global warming’s huge threat to Bahamas
The Bahamas is at risk of losing 80 percent of its landmass in the next eight decades due to the current pace of global warming, according to Bahamian T Oneil Johnson Jr.
Teenagers remanded over claims they planned to harm a woman
TWO teenagers were remanded into custody yesterday over allegations they planned to use a firearm to harm a woman last week. Mantez Rolle, 18, and a 17-year-old male were accused of being in possession of a handgun, which the prosecution alleged the
BAIC staff unhappy with new manager's changes
WHILE staff at the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation have complained about the style of the new management, BAIC’s new general manager Rocky Nesbitt said he is just trying to bring accountability and transparency to an area that is used
Prime Minister's interesting display of political theatre
In an interesting display of political theatre, the prime minister decided to throw the Bahamian people to the wolves in order to save his own political hide. Yet another quality unbecoming of a national leader.
Remembering Neville Smith
The passing of the Hon Justice Neville Smith adds to the rich tapestry of the invaluable contributions that Barbadians have made and continue to make to the development of the Bahamas in various professional capacities, such as teaching, nursing, law-enforcement, engineering, law and medicine.
Nathaniel makes an impact at JUCO basketball showcase
BASED on his performance, Lathaniel Bastian felt he made an impression on the scouts at the All-American Junior College Basketball Showcase.
Police release sketches of suspected rapists
POLICE have released sketches of three suspected rapists and are appealing to the public for information leading to their arrests. ASP Audley Peters confirmed to The Tribune yesterday that the suspects are wanted for separate incidents which occurre
Samuel on the hunt
After spending time here at home since March during the suspension of school because of the coronavirus pandemic, Samuel Hunter has returned to the University of Mississippi for his sophomore year as a member of the Rebels men’s basketball team.
Bail denied as man faces charges of armed robbery
A 37-year-old man was charged with armed robbery in the Magistrates Court yesterday. Miguel Francis, also known as “Smokey”, was accused of robbing Tevaun Davis on August 4. The prosecution said the funds belonged to Polhemus Drugs. According to ini
Fined $500 for assisting in theft
A 28-year-old man who admitted helping another man steal a weed whacker from a yard cleaner last month was fined $500 yesterday. Danrico Carey appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes after he was accused of stealing the gardening tool
The 157 will be to blame
A germ carrier has been defined as a person or thing that carries and transmits harmful microorganisms.
The show goes on for Bahamian equestrians abroad
BAHAMIAN show jumpers abroad are seizing the opportunity to shine in the ring, as equestrian event organisers worldwide begin to establish a “new normal” for showground competition after months of event cancellations due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Tuesday, August 25
GB FNM Council praises Minnis for 'listening'
The Free National Movement Grand Bahama Council has commendide Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and the government of the Bahamas for “listening to the voices of the people”. In a statement released yesterday, the council praised Dr Minnis for being
Revolutionary device to treat urinary incontinence
Tens of thousands of Bahamian women and men have their bladder dictate their lives and reduce the quality of their every day lives.
Why telling kids to ‘clean your plate’ can be harmful
Health coach Ethan Quant, CEO of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Is ‘working from home’ putting extra strain on women?
Working from home, the “new normal” for many right now, may have sounded very appealing a few months ago. Women, mothers in particular, hoped that staying home would help them in taking care of their kids, who have been mostly off from school since March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Toni Braxton inspires with unusual skincare routine
From naming her wigs, to using unorthodox objects to help complete her makeup look, R&B superstar Toni Braxton certainly caught the attention of many women when she revealed her beauty secrets to Vogue during a recent video tutorial.
EDITORIAL: From lockdown to opening the doors
That wasn’t what we expected.
PETER YOUNG: COVID’s here to stay and it may be we’ll just have to learn to live alongside it
Some people consider that so much has been written about the coronavirus pandemic that there is little further to say.
FACE TO FACE: A lifetime’s mission to redress the wrongs of slavery and explore a people’s African roots
August is the month that commemorates the emancipation of Africans in the Western world. The people of the Rastafari movement never let Emancipation Day pass without impassioned calls for the freedom, redemption and repatriation of African descendants throughout the Diaspora. It has been decades since the calls first began.
Hospital worker asks: Why wasn't I told to quarantine?
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net A PRINCESS Margaret Hospital staff member is feeling frustrated after claiming she was not told to quarantine by hospital officials although she was exposed to three patients who l
Jitney boss calls for national plan for restart
THE proprietor of a local jitney service said uncertainty is the main challenge in the nation’s omnibus industry, as he called for stakeholders to be included in some national plan mapping the way to their industry’s return to normalcy. The transpor
Lockdowns have worked for us, says Thompson
Minister of State for Grand Bahama Senator Kwasi Thompson said the lockdowns have worked for Grand Bahama, where they are now seeing a reduction in new COVID-19 cases, as well as cases in the hospital. “The lockdown recommended by the medical offici
Hardship sign: Incoming wire transfers 'doubling'
The Bahamas is no longer "a sending country" for international wire transfers, money transmission providers revealed yesterday, with incoming transactions "doubling" due to COVID-19 hardship. Harvey Morris, Omni Financial Group’s chief executive, to
PM's address 'struck the COVID-9 balance'
The Chamber of Commerce's chief executive last night praised the Prime Minister for "striking a good balance" between COVID-19's economic and health challenges in his decision to relax restrictions. Jeffrey Beckles told Tribune Business that Dr Hube
Sands Beer back in production by September-end
Sands Beer and its "light" version will be back by end-September, their Freeport-based brewer has pledged, with manufacturing restored to between 65-70 percent of pre-Dorian capacity by that date. Jimmy Sands, the Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Compa
Ease leaves GB with 'crippled but better' economy
The Prime Minister's decision to ease COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on Grand Bahama was yesterday said to have placed the island on "a crippled economic footing, which is much better than nothing".
‘Devil will be in the detail’
An ex-Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president last night called for greater clarity on the projects the Government plans to "fast track", adding: "The devil is in the details."
Three months in jail for breaking bail conditions
A 34-year-old man who violated his bail conditions related to illegal firearm and ammunition charges was sentenced to three months in prison yesterday. Alcott Roach appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes after he was accused of failin
Restrictions eased on Family Islands and Grand Bahama
THE Office of the Prime Minister announced the ease of lockdown restrictions for Grand Bahama and several Family Islands yesterday, allowing the resumption of indoor church services, curbside business activity and outdoor dining. These islands can a
‘I didn’t expect to be here after the coronavirus came along’
HE graduated in the St Anne’s Class of 2019 as the valedictorian, but now Red Line Athletics’ sprinter Davon Johnson has decided to follow in the footsteps of his older brother David III at St John’s University in Minnesota.
Unity is key in the face of threat from this virus
Covid-19 has exposed a dangerous fault-line in our public discourse. Our political leaders are not singing from the same sheet of music to address the pandemic. As a result, we the people are getting mixed messages. The lack of clarity plus the loutish behaviour of some of us has put the nation at risk.
Death rate is alarming
The Nassau Guardian reported on Sunday that there have been two additional COVID-19 deaths recorded by the Ministry of Health, pushing the overall total to 29 – all since March.
‘Brave is making progress’
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis is “progressing” and responding well to COVID-19 treatment in a United States hospital, The Tribune was told yesterday.
Bernadette’s passion - nursing and people
NURSE Bernadette Rolle, who died last Friday, was yesterday remembered as a loving, giving and humorous person.
Dashboard mistakes revised to clean up previous errors
THE COVID-19 death toll increased sharply yesterday to 46. Chief Medical Officer Dr Pearl McMillan explained that the increase was mainly due to officials now including “deaths under investigation” to the dashboard. Officials have also revealed errors in data on previous dashboards, which they have since cleaned up leading to a decrease in overall cases.
Two men deny theft claims
Two men were charged with stealing by reason of employment in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Rashad Saunders, 30, of Flying Fish Street, Freeport, and Marvin Williams, 48, of South Bahamia, appeared before Magistrate Rengin Johnson. It
Pair admit violating curfew but needed to eat
A magistrate yesterday discharged two men who claimed they violated the island’s curfew because they were trying to get something to eat. Ahmad Ferguson, 22, and Ricardo Johnson, 21, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes after office
Woman attacked another with a screwdriver
A 24-year-old woman was ordered to attend anger management classes after she admitted to assaulting another woman with a screwdriver during an argument last week. Another woman was also placed on six months’ probation for threatening to knock down a
Firearm charge
A 53-year-old man who appeared in court yesterday for illegal firearm and ammunition possession was denied bail ahead of his trial. Patrick Peterson was remanded to prison over allegations he was found with a .9mm pistol, 75 unfired rounds of .9mm a
Richardson and Giants in the wild-card race
At the midway point of Major League Baseball’s shortened season, Antoan Richardson and the San Francisco Giants are in the midst of the National League wild-card race.
Blue Lagoon dismisses official's separation talk
By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net A major Bahamian destination provider has denied that the jobs of 140 staff members are in jeopardy after a senior government official said he had been informed of "talk about separati
Monday, August 24
UPDATED: Most New Providence businesses can open on August 31, no hard lockdown needed
AS he announced that most businesses in New Providence will be allowed to reopen on August 31, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said new COVID-19 data suggests no hard lockdown is needed at this time for the island.
14 new cases of COVID-19, two deaths
The Ministry of Health reported on Monday that there are 14 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
WORLD VIEW: Diplomats hamstrung as COVID drives them to the computer screen
THE COVID-19 pandemic is severely limiting the work of diplomacy. It could have a lasting adverse affect on international relations if finding a vaccine continues to elude global researchers for much longer.
EDITORIAL: Hearing nurse Rolle shows reality of the COVID-19 fight
AS she fought a losing battle against COVID-19, nurse Bernadette Rolle recorded a voice note detailing her struggle.
INSIGHT: Maybe now you’ll understand - a little taste of dictatorship shows what generations of ‘others’ have endured
Loftus Roker’s infamous “reign of terror” as Immigration Minister in the 1980s is largely responsible for cementing in the minds of average Bahamians the idea that Haitians and people of Haitian descent are second class citizens – actually little better than vermin – and underserving of the same rights as everyone else.
Govt issues new Family Island Emergency Order provisions
The Office of the Prime Minister advises the following measures will begin Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at 5 a.m. for Grand Bahama, Andros, Crooked Island, Acklins, Eleuthera, Cat Island, Exuma, Bimini, the Berry Islands, Mayaguana, Inagua and Abaco.
INSIGHT: A mistake that Dr Minnis can’t afford to repeat
IT was only nine months ago that COVID-19 was still a new phenomenon we were watching from afar.
INSIGHT: Patience runs out as GB businesses demand to be heard
Nearly 200 frustrated Grand Bahama business owners stand ready to protest from today if their pleas to reopen their businesses continue to be ignored by officials at the Office of the Prime Minister in Freeport.
Darville calls for conciliatory approach
A former veteran Bahamian educator is expressing concern over reported threats by the Minister of Education to “hunt down” unregulated educational facilities operating in the country.
BAIC to remain open as long as orders permit
THE Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation will remain open as long as lockdown orders permits it to perform “an essential service in this time of food supply instability,” the corporation said in a statement yesterday.
Brewery chief hits 'double standard'
A Bahamian brewery's principal has slammed the the Government for allowing its main competitor to operate while his firm remains closed, adding: "It doesn't pay to be a Bahamian in your own country." Jimmy Sands, the Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Co
Freeport private sector demands lockdown end
Freeport's private sector yesterday demanded the Government "cease and desist" from further business lockdowns amid fears The Bahamas will "die economically" unless it learns to live with COIVID-19. Some 184 Grand Bahama-based small business owners,
QC urges: End Port/Hutchison tax breaks
An outspoken QC is urging the Government to force the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) and Hutchison Whampoa to fulfill their Freeport obligations by ending the tax benefits they currently enjoy.
ActivTrades: The invisible enemy
We tend to think of ourselves, and perhaps understandably so, as the most successful species on the planet, the pinnacle of evolution determined by natural selection.
Hayward’s children launch new court case
The ruinous financial impact of the late Sir Jack Hayward's battle for control of the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has been exposed by the $4m legal bill still owed by his estate over a decade later.
Another six added to virus death toll
THE Ministry of Health confirmed that six more people have died from COVID-19 as the country recorded an additional 155 new cases of the virus, according to dashboard information for Friday and Saturday.
NURSE’S FEARS AS SHE BATTLED COVID: Bernadette’s ordeal left in recording shows that she prayed she’d survive
NURSE Bernadette Rolle left a heartbreaking message describing her ordeal as she fought COVID-19 in a clinic.
Final moments of doomed flight
THE final moments before the helicopter crash that killed billionaire coal tycoon Chris Cline, 60, and six other people have been revealed.
Man shot after argument at friend's house
A MAN is in hospital after he was shot during an argument at a friend’s house, police said.
Gross inexperience and insensitivity
At this point in the global efforts against COVID-19, there is enough information to determine what has worked and what has not.
PM needs our support
The unfortunate illness of Brave Davis and the dramatic rise in deaths and hospitalizations convince all reasonable observers of the Bahamian society that COVID-19 is a serious virus. Frankly, I don’t wish to engage with anyone on this topic who believes otherwise. My advice to such people is that they have private conversations with others who might be able to help them think through this.
Say No to maskholes
Wear a mask. Keep a six-foot distance. Wash your hands.
Gaither and Gardiner victorious in 100m
The coronavirus pandemic may have limited the amount of meets that they compete in, but quarter-miler Steven Gardiner and sprinter Tynia Gaither are making the best of the opportunities they’re provided with.
‘Reno’ might get his wish
IT appears that Tureano “Reno” Johnson might get his wish by getting a bout against elite competition in the middleweight division.
Ray Minus Jr’s Champion Amateur Boxing Club relocates
RAY Minus Jr and his Champion Amateur Boxing Club, the country’s most successful sporting franchise, has been forced to move from a location that has been its hallmark over the past two decades.
Total COVID-19 lockdown branded 'economic suicide'
By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net The Prime Minister has been urged to “think like a businessman" by one private sector executive who warned that any renewed attempt to totally lockdown New Providence will be “economic
Colina suffers 96% fall on investment income
A BISX-listed life and health insurer has revealed that 2020 first-half profits were down $3m year-over-year after its investment income plummeted 96 percent due to COVID-19's impact. Colina Holdings (Bahamas), the parent of Colina Insurance Company
Water suppliers hit by 'issues we don't control'
By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net Water manufacturers say third-party issues outside their control impacted the industry's ability to keep up with demand last week after a day's production was lost to the aborted lockd
Sunday, August 23
SKYGuard | Bahamas Power & Light Tropical Storm Laura Weather eAlert (#10)
Sunday, 23rd August, 2020.
Tropical Storm Laura not forecast to be hurricane until well away from Bahamas
TROPICAL Storm Laura is not forecast to become a hurricane until it is well away from The Bahamas and in the Gulf of Mexico, according to Chief Meteorological Officer Arnold King.
62 new cases of COVID-19 and two deaths reported on Saturday
The Ministry of Health reported that there were 62 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases and two deaths on Saturday.
Saturday, August 22
Department of Inland Revenue Exuma Office closes temporarily after staff member tests positive for COVID-19
The Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) wishes to advise the public that its Exuma Office is temporarily closed for deep cleaning and sanitizing following a staff member testing positive for COVID-19.
Southeastern islands prepared for Tropical Storm Laura
Minister of Disaster Preparedness Iram Lewis said the southeastern islands of the Bahamas are prepared and officials are closely watching Tropical Storm Laura and its track in the Bahamas.
Bahamas Power & Light | SKYGuard Tropical Cyclone Weather Alert ( #9)
A couple of hours ago an observing site on the southeast coast of Puerto Rico reported sustained winds of 52 kt.
UPDATED: Sandilands nurse dies of COVID-19
SATURDAY AFTERNOON UPDATE: Minister of Health Renward Wells has paid tribute to Sandilands nurse Bernadette Rolle, who died of COVID-19.
SKYGuard | Bahamas Power & Light Tropical Storm Projected Track & Intensity ( Bulletin #8)
Surface observations and Doppler radar data from Puerto Rico indicate that the centre of Laura is currently over the Virgin Islands, eastern Puerto Rico, and the adjacent Caribbean waters.
Five deaths, 93 COVID-19 cases reported on Friday
THE Bahamas recorded five additional COVID-19 deaths and 93 newly confirmed cases of the virus on Friday.
Friday, August 21
Curfew implemented on Acklins and Crooked Island
A CURFEW has been implemented on Acklins and Crooked Island with immediate effect after a COVID-19 case was confirmed on Acklins and officials launched investigations into seven suspected cases between the two islands.
Grand Bahama food distribution programme expanded with Urban Renewal
AS applications for food assistance have increased, Minister of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson said the government has expanded its food distribution programme with the help of Urban Renewal.
EDITORIAL: The long arm of the law has a heavy hand
WHEN Deon Duverny set off to drive his cousin home, he did not expect the journey would end in a prison cell.
Inagua, Ragged Island projected to feel strongest winds of Tropical Storm Laura
A TROPICAL depression being monitored by weather officials has been upgraded to Tropical Storm Laura.
Fresh Creek Bridge closed
The Fresh Creek Bridge is a vital transport link as it provides the only road crossing of Fresh Creek waterway in Central Andros.
Emergency medical dispatchers temporarily relocated to PHA Corporate Training Centre
The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) has temporarily relocated Emergency Medical Dispatchers from their previous location at the Police Control Room to the PHA’s Corporate Offices in Centreville.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Is there a plot to jettison Minnis? His advisers are not making him look too hot
Let me open this week by saying, as a professional comedian with 23 years in the industry, you can’t write the comedy of errors that unfolded before our eyes this week any funnier.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Once I was lost, now I am found
Once upon a time, a family took a long vacation by van, exploring the backwoods and places they had never been before. Though taking the lesser known route came with some risk, it was a chance to unite, to be together and what an adventure it would be, creating memories to last a lifetime.
UB North working to help youngsters rebuild homes
THE University of the Bahamas North, in partnership with HEART 9/11 of the United States, has launched a Pre-Apprentice Programme to train young individuals with skills in roofing and carpentry, while helping to rebuild homes on Grand Bahama destroyed by Hurricane Dorian.
Doctor calling for more COVID testing on Grand Bahama
A GRAND Bahama doctor is calling on health officials to expand COVID-19 testing capabilities to the island.
Attorneys chip in to pay student’s court bill
AN 18-year-old high school student, who spent over a week in prison for violating the national curfew, was released yesterday thanks to a few local attorneys who paid his $500 fine.
Several nurses calling in sick at Sandilands
BAHAMAS Nurses Union president Amancha Williams confirmed that a number of nurses, experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, called in sick at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre yesterday.
Rolle reveals 85 officers in quarantine
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle revealed yesterday around 85 police officers are in quarantine while one officer has been disciplined for breaching confinement.
Police team giving out water and masks
POLICE Commissioner Paul Rolle and a team of officers gave out water and masks to Windsor Lane residents yesterday.
Bahamasair's cash burn at $7m on 'deeper dive'
A "deeper dive" has revealed Bahamasair is burning through $7m per month in what one Cabinet minister yesterday described as a "vexing" problem for taxpayers and the Public Treasury.
Water Corp 'hanging on a very tight string'
The Government has little choice but to bail-out a Water & Sewerage Corporation that is "hanging on a very tight string"," a Cabinet minister confirmed yesterday.
First steps to 'eating a planning elephant'
A Cabinet minister yesterday pledged the Government is taking the first steps to "eat the elephant" and end the 10-year wait for Land Use Plans that are demanded by Bahamian law.
Union calms members over Atlantis concerns
The hotel union yesterday sought to calm its Atlantis members by saying it has not been approached by the resort over permanent terminations or severance packages less than the legal minimum.
One hundred plan march for '242 business survival'
Permission is being sought for a "business survival march" to draw attention to the plight of entrepreneurs who fear their firms "might not last beyond September" with the present COVID restrictions. Mark A. Turnquest, the small business consultant
We can see virus has very little regard for social status
As of August 20, the United States of America has a total of 5,550,029 confirmed COVID-19 infections, with 173,306 deaths.
Davis flies to States for COVID treatment
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis was airlifted to the United States for COVID-19 treatment yesterday.
Culmer insists no division in Cabinet
FREE National Movement chairman Carl Culmer dismissed speculation of friction in Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ Cabinet due to the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brennen: I’m not resigning my post
DEPUTY Chief Medical Officer Dr Delon Brennen has denied social media claims that he submitted a notice of intention to resign.
Virtual Closest to the Pin golf shootout on September 2
THE Bahamas Ministry of Tourism has announced the launch of a first-of-its kind virtual Closest to the Pin golf shootout.
Virus claims another 79 cases plus extra death
THE Ministry of Health confirmed 79 more COVID-19 cases yesterday and another related death.
25-year-old held on attempted murder charge
A 25-year-old man was remanded to prison yesterday after being arraigned on an attempted murder charge.
Robinson, Chisholm in MLB Pipeline’s Top 100
The Bahamas is one of just four countries to have multiple prospects on the latest edition of Major League Baseball Pipeline’s Top 100.
Basketball players Albury, Edgecombe turning heads
COACH Jamaal Smith could not have been more pleased with the performances of Bahamian basketball players Deyton Albury and Garreth Edgecombe as they wrapped up play with the Carolina Defenders in the series of AAU Tournaments over the weekend.
Sorry language of the lockdown
“Enough is enough. Enough is enough stop running”.
Category 1 storm expected to hit in north
THE northern Bahamas is expected to experience Category One hurricane conditions by Sunday from a weather disturbance being monitored by officials.
Andros banking access worry as storm forms
The South Andros Chamber of Commerce's head yesterday said access to banking and financial services is the main concern for residents as they prepare for a hurricane amid COVID-19 rest
Water supply warning for independent depots
By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net A major bottled water supplier yesterday said it might have to limit service to some independent depots to enable production to catch up with demand. Christian Knowles, Aquapure’s ope
Destination provider signs Disney contract
By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net A Bahamian tour and destination provider has added Disney to its roster of cruise line clients despite the industry's delayed return and wait for COVID-19 border/lockdown restrictions
'Low hanging fruit' for COVID opportunities
The year 2020, and perhaps 2021, will prove to be seasons where entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity will thrive. With thousands of well-established businesses failing under the COVID-19 cloud, and millions being laid-off worldwide, people are
Thursday, August 20
UPDATED: Davis releases statement on decision to travel to U.S.
PLP Leader Philip “Brave” Davis has released a statement on the decision to travel to the United States.
EDITORIAL: Does the Prime Minister have a plan?
IN just four words, former Health Minister Dr Duane Sands shows the problem with our current approach to tackling COVID-19: “What is the plan?”
PETER YOUNG: Those who live in a democracy must be on permanent guard
A month ago, I wrote about the thorny and controversial subjects of ‘wokeness’ and the ‘cancel culture’ - and I return to these today because there is growing evidence that people in the UK are fighting back against these strange phenomena, which are loosely defined as demanding adherence to a new orthodoxy about social and political justice together with attacking and ruining the lives of any who do not submit to such demands.
STATESIDE: Biden may have cracks, Trump’s loathed but can be masterful - for the US it is what it is
Were you watching the first couple of evenings of the Democratic national convention in the midst of a Bahamas lockdown as COVID-19 tried to secure a tighter grip here? Most of the convention was actually quite worth watching.
STATESIDE: Biden may have cracks, Trump’s loathed but can be masterful - for the US it is what it is
Were you watching the first couple of evenings of the Democratic national convention in the midst of a Bahamas lockdown as COVID-19 tried to secure a tighter grip here? Most of the convention was actually quite worth watching.
FACE TO FACE: Fighting the odds since infancy, MJ keeps smiling - and winning
While many are facing tough times due to the pandemic, there are those whose struggles are exacerbated by medical issues and the subsequent cost of getting proper care. That’s the fight that Michelo McKenzie Sr must overcome for the sake of his son, Michelo Jr.
Turnquest: Ignore fake news
Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest has promised the government is committed to the nation’s full recovery from Hurricane Dorian and its battle against COVID-19. His assurance came as he said a significant amount of “fake news and irresponsible in
Tourism chief looking to an October upturn
THE Ministry of Tourism is eyeing late October as the return of its global marketing strategies, hoping by then the country is ready to reopen, Tourism Parliamentary Secretary Travis Robinson said yesterday. “We are looking at around late October fo
Dozens wait at church for food vouchers
SCORES of people waited for hours yesterday at Church of God Auditorium on Joe Farrington Road to receive food vouchers from the National Food Distribution Task Force.
Mitchell: I am appalled by the scenes of chaos on the streets
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Fred Mitchell said some people have asked the party to move a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis over the chaos that erupted over his seven-day lockdown of New Providence and subsequent U-turn.
Pinder predicts 'a silver lining behind dark clouds'
LABOUR Director John Pinder said officials expect more job layoffs in the coming weeks, but he appealed to employers to have patience as a “silver lining is behind these dark clouds”. This comes just a few weeks after he said unemployment “will not
IDB: 100,000 workers 'vulnerable' to job loss
More than one in every six "formal" jobs in The Bahamas could be lost due to COVID-19, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has warned, making 100,000 workers "vulnerable" to the fall-out. An IDB report on the repurposing of more than $19.5m to
Regulators reject Sebas on gaming ad restriction
Regulators have rejected arguments by Sebas Bastian's web shop and media empire that a 5am to 9pm bar on gaming advertising is "discriminatory, arbitrary and capricious". The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA), in an announcement
COVID's open/close cycle just 'too taxing'
A major Bahamian insurer yesterday said its office will function with a "skeleton crew" despite being granted permission to return because the COVID-19 opening/closing cycle is simply "too taxing".
Small business: Second funding release for 63%
The Government's small business assistance initiative stopped taking new applicants from June 15 as it concentrates on distributing the $38.264m in loan and grant funding already approved.
ActivTrades: Is data the new oil?
The 20th Century was the golden age of oil. The black gold, as it became known, drove the ambition of ruthless tycoons and was the reason that lead countries to war. Fortunes were made and lost and maps had to be redrawn, as oil rich regions were able to punch above their weight in terms of geostrategic importance.
MP Hank Johnson tests positive for COVID-19
CENTRAL and South Eleuthera MP Hank Johnson is in hospital after testing positive for COVID-19.
BPL/ SkyGuard Projected Track, Intensity & Arrival Time of Tropical Storm Laura
Thursday, 20th August, 2020.
Bahamas Power & Light | SKYGuard Tropical Cyclone Watch ( 92 hours Away)
Thursday,, 20th August, 2020.
‘Hurricane’ may arrive by Sunday
THE National Emergency Management Agency is closely monitoring a weather disturbance projected to threaten The Bahamas by Sunday.
Sands accuses govt of blundering by: • Having no coherent plan to tackle crisis • Vilifying public for COVID spread
FORMER Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said Monday’s sudden lockdown and subsequent policy reversal will make it “infinitely more difficult for the government now to win the public confidence again”.
Dame Joan - rights are being broken
DAME Joan Sawyer has insisted the government has infringed upon the constitutional rights and freedoms of Bahamians who have been subject to lockdowns, leaving a window open to sue the state over this infraction.
Ms Kelly should retract
Catherine Kelly, in a recent column, obviously thought she was dispensing good natured business advice that would help us during the pandemic-forced shut-down of our tourism economy.
UPDATED: 107 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Wednesday, two more deaths
ONE hundred and seven COVID-19 cases were confirmed yesterday and the death total from the virus increased by two for a total of 22.
Police car damaged at protest
A POLICE vehicle was damaged during a protest near Windsor Park on Tuesday. Police said 39 people were arrested during the short-lived protest because they did not have lawful permission to demonstrate. “The officers questioned the purported leader
TV union boss leads calls for BCB chief to resign from job
THE president and members of the Bahamas Communication and Public Officers Union are calling for the immediate resignation of the general manager of the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas. The union has alleged bullying, threats and a lack of e
Two men deny firearm possession charges
TWO men were arraigned in Magistrates Court yesterday on firearm possession charges. Eric Arthur, 21, and Elvardo Deveaux, 22, stood before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis yesterday, charged with being in possession of an unlicenced firearm. D
Three accused of forgery, attempted fraud
Three Grand Bahama men were charged with forgery and attempted fraud in connection in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. Austin Augustine, 27, of Hanna Hill, EMR; Loran Turnquest, 29, of No 15 Waterfall Drive, Freeport; and Darren Davis,
Jailed for violating curfew
A 27-year-old man who pleaded guilty to violating New Providence’s curfew was sent to prison yesterday because he could not pay a $750 fine. Shaquille Williams appeared before Magistrate Cara Turnquest-Deveaux charged with curfew violation after pol
Minnis must remember he said it is the people's time
The announcement that Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader Philip “Brave” Davis had contracted the COVID-19 virus is a stern reminder that the virus is no respecter of persons. We must pray for the PLP leader and the 1,300 plus Bahamians who have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
Our ‘Junkanoo Boyz’ are placed in Group F
The Bahamas learned its possible path to a berth in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar following CONCACAF’s preliminary qualification draw.
It’s official: Isnord will join Get Better Academy
WILKENSON “Kenny” Isnord will officially join Get Better Academy (GBA) in Prague, Czech Republic, as he makes his transition to pro basketball.
Production lag causes 'crazy' water demand
A bottled water supplier described yesterday's re-opening as "pretty crazy" and said it will need "a couple of days" for production to catch-up with demand following Monday's shutdown. Christian Knowles, Aquapure's chief of operations, told Tribune
Ex-minister blasts GB Power's 'heartless' fee
An ex-Cabinet minister yesterday blasted Grand Bahama Power Company as "inhumane and heartless" for asking customers to foot the bill for $15m in Dorian recovery costs amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Obie Wilchcombe, the former West End MP and ex-touris
Wholesalers warn on restock delays
Wholesalers yesterday warned that food retailers should expect some restocking as they try to “catch up” with the lost time created by the now-aborted (for the moment) full New Providence lockdown. Richard Curry, Lightbourn Trading's general manager
Wednesday, August 19
New insight into the neurological impact of COVID-19: Virus can worsen strokes, affect brain and nervous system
WHILE there is at this time notenough data to prove that coronaviruscan be the root cause of neurological complications, medical professionals note that, like other viruses such as influenza, patients with COVID-19 may experience headaches, anosmia (loss of sense of smell), dizziness, Guillain-Barre syndrome (the immune system attacks your nerves), and even strokes.
Health coaching seeks to reshape healthcare with holistic approach
Hiring a health coach is, in a lot of people’s minds, only something athletes and celebrities do to ensure they stay fighting fit and/or look for the camera.
Motivation alone is not enough
Health coach Ethan Quant, CEO of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Dealing with pain “down below”
There are many potential causes of testicular and scrotal pain and swelling.
Miss Bahamas Universe ends reign disappointed in pageant system
As her reign comes to an end, outgoing Miss Bahamas Universe Tarea Sturrup gives up her crown with disappointment in her heart and unfulfilled dreams of making a difference.
ALICIA WALLACE: One man cannot deal with this crisis on his own. Minute-by-minute decisions are not going to get us through this
Some of us do not seem to matter. There is little consideration to people living with illnesses and in need of medication, people experiencing poverty, elderly people, unhoused people, women, or children.
Bishop thanks Minnis for 'gracious decision'
By TANYA SMITH-CARTWRIGHT tsmith-cartwright@tribunemedia.net BISHOP Walter Hanchell thanked Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for his “graceful decision” to adjust the strict seven-day lockdown imposed on New Providence but called on the nation’s lea
Frustration begins to show in Grand Bahama
Going into the fifth consecutive week of lockdowns in Grand Bahama, some residents are feeling a bit frustrated while others believe it is for the protection of all. One Grand Bahama resident agrees the extended lockdowns are not comfortable, but th
Munroe to file more legal action against PM
ATTORNEY Wayne Munroe told The Tribune he plans to file more legal action against Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis after a group of people were arrested yesterday for protesting against New Providence’s immediate seven-day lockdown. He suggested Dr M
Long lines and empty shelves after lockdown U-turn
Food stores were inundated with shoppers on Wednesday, hours after the government reversed the seven-day lockdown.
'Stop beating country with the stupid stick'
The Government was yesterday urged to "stop beating the whole country with the stupid stick" amid growing fears that continual COVID-19 lockdowns will create "an economic implosion by Christmas". Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Govern
GB Power 'cannot keep kicking fee down road'
Grand Bahama Power Company's top executive has warned the utility "cannot keep kicking the can down the road" on implementing the extra charge to recover $15m in Dorian restoration costs. Dave McGregor, its president and chief executive, told Tribun
Construction re-open averts 'complete halt'
The Bahamian construction industry would have "come to a halt within a week to 10 days" had the Prime Minister yesterday not relaxed COVID-19 restrictions on hardware stores being able to open. Robert Myers, head of the Caribbean Group of Companies,
Roberts hails extra hours from lockdown relaxation
Super Value's president last night said the reversal of New Providence's near-total lockdown was "better than back to normal" as his stores can now open for longer than they did pre-COVID-19. Rupert Roberts told Tribune Business that his 13-store su
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 19th August: Freeport – update
STARTS: 08/19/2020 10:30 AM EDT EXPIRES: 08/19/2020 4:00 PM EDT
Normal operating hours for commercial banks, insurance companies, brokers and agents
The Office of the Prime Minister wishes to advise that commercial banks, insurance companies and brokers and agents have been permitted to operate from 8am to 5pm, as needed, to allow residents to make the necessary preparations for a developing weather system.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 19th August: Nassau
STARTS: 08/19/2020 8:30 AM EDT EXPIRES: 08/19/2020 11:30 AM EDT
BPL | SKYGuard Long Range Tropical Cyclone Weather Bulletin #2 ( Invest 98L)
Wednesday, 19th August, 2020.
SHAMBOLIC: PM forced into dramatic U-turn after public fury at ‘no notice’ lockdown
LESS than 24 hours after announcing a seven-day immediate lockdown for New Providence, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis reversed the harsh measures yesterday afternoon and allowed food stores, pharmacies, water depots, gas stations and hardware stores to open from 6am to 9pm beginning today.
Three men accused of violating curfew
THREE men were brought to court earlier this week to face charges of violating the national curfew. Trevon Stubbs, 21, stood before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis, charged with violating the curfew after police found him on Mount Tabor Drive
'Govt zigging and zagging all over the place'
THE hours leading up to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ U-turn on New Providence’s seven-day lockdown caused unnecessary chaos, Progressive Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper said yesterday as he criticised government’s “zigging and zagging”
Man admits theft and causing damage
A 30-year-old man was ordered to pay $700 in the Magistrates Court yesterday after he pleaded guilty to stealing items valued at $380 and causing damage estimated at over $600. Wardnell Pierre, 30, stood before Magistrate Kara Turnquest-Deveaux, cha
Clarke making the transition to collegiate level
THE country’s former top junior female tennis player Sydney Clarke is now making the transition to the collegiate level.
Protesters gather over 'no notice' lockdown
SEVERAL people were arrested yesterday morning after a protest near Windsor Park sparked by the lack of notice given over New Providence’s seven-day lockdown. The protestors defied orders to remain indoors and instead took to the streets to decry th
Charged with running a non-essential business
A 46-year-old man was arraigned in Magistrates Court earlier this week for operating a non-essential business in breach of COVID-19 emergency orders. Roberto Williams appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis, charged with operating a no
‘Sand Man’ now No.15 among title contenders
Amron Sands is now listed at No.15 among contenders for the North American Boxing Federation heavyweight title.
Lockdown took private sector totally off-guard
The private sector was caught totally off-guard by the Prime Minister's decision to completely lockdown New Providence for seven days and bring commerce to a near-total halt. Khrystle Rutherford-Ferguson, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employer
Tuesday, August 18
95 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday that there are 95 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Two Atlantic systems could become tropical storms
WEATHER officials are keeping a close eye on two systems in the Atlantic Ocean that could potentially strengthen into tropical storms later this week.
Graycliff unveils 'workation' plans
A prominent Nassau resort has today unveiled its "workation" initiative as it bids to be "a home office in paradise" for foreign workers and students operating remotely.
Aquapure to be 'slammed' on water production backlog
A top bottled water manufacturer today predicted it will face a production backlog lasting for weeks once the present New Providence lockdown is lifted and demand surges.
PM reverses new lockdown measures
A DAY after announcing a seven-day immediate lockdown for New Providence, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has reversed the harsh measures, allowing food stores, pharmacies, water depots, gas stations and hardware stores to open from 6am to 9pm beginning Wednesday.
TUESDAY'S UPDATES: PM reverses new measures
A DAY after announcing a seven-day immediate lockdown for New Providence, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has reversed the harsh measures, allowing food stores, pharmacies, water depots, gas stations and hardware stores to open from 6am to 9pm beginning Wednesday.
Chamber's 'grave concern' on lockdown release effect
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) today said it is "gravely concerned" by a near-total lockdown of New Providence that may ultimately prove "counterproductive" to the Government's health objective.
Food Distribution Task Force hoping stores closure will be reconsidered
SUSAN Larson, head of the National Food Distribution Task Force, said the group is hoping the abrupt decision to close food stores will be reconsidered.
PLP Deputy calls for amending of lockdown order
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party deputy leader Chester Cooper called on Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to “immediately amend” the most recent lockdown order, stressing people need time to prepare for a seven-day shut down.
Super Value owner seeks permission for staff to buy groceries tomorrow
SUPER Value owner Rupert Roberts says he is seeking permission for his employees to buy groceries on Wednesday after the privilege was granted to employees of the AML Group of Companies despite the seven-day lockdown.
Bishop Walter Hanchell asks PM to open New Providence
BISHOP Walter Hanchell of Great Commission Ministries said he sent an email to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis asking him to open New Providence up so people can get food and other necessities.
COVID numbers checked to see if they're new cases or part of backlog
WITH more than 1,300 confirmed cases of COVID in the country, health professionals are busy deciphering if the latest numbers should be attributed to a backlog of tests or if they are new cases.
Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas restructuring – downsizing a possibility
THE Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas advised staff in a memo Monday that the corporation will be restructuring with the possibility of downsizing.
UPDATED: Glenys Hanna Martin hits out at new lockdown measures
Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin hit out at the government’s new lockdown measures on Monday night, calling them “brutal”.
EDITORIAL: The hurricane of the COVID pandemic has hit us
Wow, this is brutal.
Does smash hit ‘WAP’ expose sexist double standard?
Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion have stirred up a storm of controversy with their new song and accompanying music video “WAP”.
New lockdown brings despair for some residents
A HALF pitcher of water and a few dry goods are all Desmond Taylor has for the seven-day lockdown Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis implemented Monday night.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert: Nassau
STARTS: 08/18/2020 11:57 AM EDT EXPIRES: 08/18/2020 2:00 PM EDT
Police call for patience amid 311 hotline complaints
AMID complaints that the 311 hotline is not being answered, police officials are urging the Bahamian public to be patient as they wait to receive assistance from the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s COVID-19 command centre.
Tribune to publish digitally during seven-day lockdown
Due to the government's strict seven-day lockdown The Tribune will be published in digital format only over the coming days.
DPM rejects Bahamas 'debt crisis' description
The deputy prime minister has rejected assertions that The Bahamas is one of 52 nations trapped in a debt crisis, arguing that the country remains "in a relatively good position".
Bulk property tax discount 'win-win'
The Government can "get an immediate cash injection" worth potentially hundreds of millions by implementing a series of discounts for bulk real property tax payments, a prominent realtor said yesterday.
Union chief fears COVID middle class wipe-out
A trade union leader last night backed the Prime Minister's decision to place New Providence on total lockdown as he warned that COVID-19's economic impact may wipe out the Bahamian middle class.
Shipyard plans rebound from 'brink of closure'
Grand Bahama Shipyard yesterday said last week's termination of 67 workers was vital to its survival strategy after events over the past 15 months brought it "to the brink of closure".
Environmentalists urge reversal of oil explorer's licence extension
Environmentalists yesterday demanded that the Government “rescind” the extension granted to the Bahamas Petroleum Company's (BPC) license to drill for oil in Bahamian waters.
Banks told: Don't take benefits to repay loans
The Central Bank yesterday said it has ordered commercial banks and credit unions not to use clients' COVID-19 unemployment benefits to repay loan facilities.
BTC to continue 'home work' model to end-2020
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) yesterday said it will continue the work-from-home model that is running 90 percent of its operations for the rest of 2020.
COVID-19 forces Scotia to close Cable Beach branch
Scotiabank (Bahamas) yesterday confirmed it has closed its Cable Beach branch until next Monday after an employee tested positive for COVID-19.
Three charged with violating curfew
THREE men were brought to court yesterday to face charges of violating the national curfew.
Monday, August 17
Philip ‘Brave’ Davis ‘in stable condition’
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party officials on Monday said PLP leader Philip “Brave” Davis is in stable condition resting comfortably in the hospital after contracting COVID-19.
Grand Bahama lockdown extended
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced the extension of Grand Bahama’s lockdown for seven days.
Lyford Cay Foundations announces $1.5m grant for food aid
LYFORD Cay Foundations has announced a commitment of $1.5 million in grant funding for food aid to the Bahamian community.
Anglican schools to go fully virtual for reopening
THE Anglican Central Education Authority has announced it will adopt the Ministry of Education's model of a fully virtual platform for the reopening of school.
PM announces seven days of further lockdown measures for New Providence
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced the strongest restrictions yet for New Providence during a national address on Monday night in response to the deepening COVID-19 crisis.
08172020 EDITION
Monday, 17th August, 2020.
WORLD VIEW: External observation of elections protects democracy and rights
CARICOM countries have been subject to intense scrutiny in the period March to August this year, relating to the conduct of general elections, maintaining democracy and upholding the rule of law.
INSIGHT: We must be careful not to let the cure be as damaging as the disease
WITH the country being engulfed in the raging second wave of COVID-19 infections, our knee-jerk response for flattening the curve - lockdown - is once again being implemented in full force.
Bar owner arrested after unauthorised gathering
THE owner of a popular bar was arrested on Friday night after police responded to reports of an unauthorised gathering, which contravened COVID-19 Emergency Orders.
Virus-free islands happy after curfew lifted
RESIDENTS of islands that have remained COVID-19 free are happy to know they can once again move around as curfew has been lifted on certain islands.
Andros residents now fear there could be more cases
ANDROS residents say they fear there could be more COVID-19 cases in the community after a local tested positive for the virus last week, becoming the island’s first COVID case.
Education minister confirms he has tested negative twice
EDUCATION Minister Jeffrey Lloyd has confirmed he’s tested negative for COVID-19 twice.
ZNS will continue as usual, says TV chief
CHAIRMAN of the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas Fred Gotlieb said it will be business as usual concerning news production at the agency, despite the building’s closure due to COVID-19 exposure.
Dr Michael Darville thanks staff at Doctor's Hospital
Senator Dr Michael Darville has expressed his gratitude to the staff at Doctor’s Hospital after he tested positive for COVID-19.
COVID alters Grand Lucayan agreement
A Cabinet minister is still “optimistic” the Grand Lucayan’s sale and redevelopment will proceed even though COVID-19 may make the deal look much different to its original version. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune B
Govt puts 'roadblocks' on 50% of construction
The government’s tightening of restrictions on hardware stores has created “roadblocks” preventing more than 50 percent of the construction industry from functioning properly, a top engineer is warning. Quentin Knowles, The Bahamas’ Society of Engin
Civil servants fight civil war
The Bahamas Public Services Union’s (BPSU) president and treasurer have won another skirmish in their legal battle with rival executives and trustees over how the union’s funds are being used. Kimsley Ferguson, pictured , and Philip Greenslade succe
'Not too concerned' on GB power's new extra charge date
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president is “not overly concerned” about the island’s energy monopoly adding an extra charge to customer bills on October 1 because the date is not fixed.
Hospitalised Davis says ‘Thank you’ for prayers
Opposition leader Philip “Brave” Davis gave his thanks to supporters last nights for their prayers after testing positive for COVID-19.
Nearly 200 new cases reported in 48 hours
THE Ministry of Health reported 198 new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, pushing the nationwide total to 1,315.
Nygard relatives: ‘We’re victims too’ – Two of tycoon’s closest family members accuse him of sex trafficking
CANADIAN fashion mogul Peter Nygard faces astonishing new allegations – that he sex trafficked two of his closest relatives and had them subjected to sexual assault.
Killed by bullets fired through window
A FAMILY has been left distraught after their loved one was fatally shot while standing inside his Elizabeth Estates home on Saturday night.
We must take more offence whenever we hear the N word
It will take a stretch of credulity to try and make the case that Bahamians are inherently racist. Black, brown, white or any hue in between, we are wedded to the principle of equality.
Time to bring back Bay Street
Tribune Business on Thursday 13th August “Commercial Landlords Urged…” realtor David Morley tells the desperate story of where the country is today and perhaps portends where we are on the way to, on our current trajectory.
Chavano ‘Buddy’ Hield: ‘Y’all can read me well’
A POSSIBLY tenuous situation between Chavano “Buddy” Hield and the Sacramento Kings front office this offseason has already begun.
Gardiner shows his speed and versatility
LIKE his Bahamian On Track Management, Inc. counterpart Shaunae Miller-Uibo, World Championship men's 400 meter champion Steven Gardiner showed his versatility and speed over the weekend by competing in a pair of meets in Mariette, Georgia.
Oil explorer hails govt in granting licence 'certainty'
An oil explorer has pledged to complete its first exploratory well in Bahamian waters “well within the timeframe” provided by the initial three-and-a-half month licence extension granted by the government.Simon Potter, the Bahamas Petroleum Company’s
Food retailer: Customers get increasingly frustrated
A Bahamian food retailer says “the money is not adding up” as customers get increasingly frustrated at the length of time it is taking to enter and check-out of stores amid the COVID-19 restrictions. Travarus Barrow, the Phoenix Supermarket’s genera
Port Authority partners on digital food vouchers
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has teamed with the Kanoo Pays app to launch a digital food voucher initiative targeted at helping the island’s most vulnerable families. The tie-up will aid the Grand Bahama Food Distribution Task Force, upon
No curbside privacy for pharmacy clients
A Bahamian pharmacist says the present COVID-19 restriction limiting pharmacies to curbside service is inconveniencing customers as there is “no privacy” and it is too “hectic”.Johnathan Frazer, head pharmacist at the People’s Pharmacy on Prince Char
Lumber provider 'busted open at maximum throttle'
A hardware and lumber provider says it is “busted open at full throttle” after the Government determined that only lumber and concrete providers can remain open during the COVID-19 lockdown. Anthony Roberts, general manager of City Lumber Yard, told
Sunday, August 16
63 new cases of COVID-19, one more death
The Ministry of Health reported on Sunday that there are 63 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Saturday, August 15
133 new COVID-19 cases reported on Saturday
The Ministry of Health reported on Saturday that there are 133 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Philip “Brave” Davis, Dr Michael Darville examined in hospital
Leader of the Opposition Philip “Brave” Davis and Senator Dr Michael Danville are in hospital after being examined “out of an abundance of caution”.
ZNS headquarters closed after staff member tests positive for COVID-19
ZNS Headquarters in New Providence closed for cleaning and sanitation on Saturday after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.
Friday, August 14
Lockdown and curfew lifted for Spanish Wells
The Office of the Prime Minister has announced that, based on the advice of health officials, Spanish Wells may resume normal commercial and social activity, effective immediately.
Good Samaritans pay vendor’s court fine
A 20-year-old man, who was convicted for selling coconut water without a permit last month, was able to pay his $800 court fine on Friday thanks to good Samaritans.
Two in court on fraud related charges
TWO men were arraigned in a Magistrate's Court Friday on fraud related charges.
UPDATED: 30 new cases of COVID-19, two deaths reported on Friday
COVID-19 cases in The Bahamas have now risen to 1,119.
Teens charged with armed robbery
TWO teenagers were remanded to prison on Friday after being arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court on two counts of armed robbery.
'Extension of food distribution programme needed'
WITH more than 35,000 households nationwide registered under the National Food Distribution Task Force, its Chairman Susan Larson has said there is a need to extend the programme past month’s end.
Two injured after attempted armed robbery
AN ATTEMPTED armed robbery at a business establishment has left an employee and suspect injured and receiving care in hospital.
Man charged with grievous harm
A 21-year old Haitian man, who claimed he attacked another man because he believed he was sexually assaulted by him, was remanded to prison on Friday.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Mario’s mad as hell and isn’t going to take it anymore
It’s funny how people spend their lives doing one thing, get really good at it, make a name for themselves, and suddenly they turn up doing something so different you’d think it must be someone else with the same name.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Who's in charge now that Doc's in quarantine?
The past week saw more political twists and turns, three of the nation’s top executives in self- imposed exile, a lingering eyesore on Bay Street and a columnist releasing her inner ‘Karen’.
5,000 sign petition to demolish the Torii Gate
A 5,000-signature petition for the demolition of a well-known Freeport landmark has been launched and has already exceeded 50 percent of its signature target.
Health officials respond to rising cases at facilities
IN response to an increasing number of COVID-19 cases across Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) facilities, officials yesterday said several countermeasures have been put in place in New Providence and Grand Bahama.
University employees test positive
TWO University of the Bahamas employees have tested positive for COVID-19, leaving officials to now determine the level of exposure to the virus of essential employees.
Wards temporarily relocated at Rand Memorial
The “increasing demand” for resources to facilitate COVID-19 health care and ongoing construction at Rand Memorial Hospital has resulted in the temporary relocation of the medical and surgical wards outside of the public health institution.
'Economic implosion' fear if lockdown not relaxed
The Bahamas faces “an economic implosion” within weeks unless the government relaxes the COVID-19 lockdown for domestic industries, an ex-Contractors Association chief warned yesterday. Stephen Wrinkle told Tribune Business that The Bahamas “doesn’t
'Substantial appetite' anticipated for visa despite Barbados lag
The Economic Recovery Committee’s co-chair yesterday predicted there will be “substantial appetite” for The Bahamas’ proposed annual work/study visa even though it lags rivals such as Barbados. Marlon Johnson, who is also the Ministry of Finance’s a
'Airbnbs of ocean' face satellite tracking plans
A prominent realtor yesterday disclosed he is working on a “nano satellite” tracking app that would aid The Bahamas in regulating and taxing “the Airbnbs of the ocean”.Mario Carey, the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate MCR Group Bahamas principal,
Govt urged: Speed up GB airport acquisition
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce yesterday urged the government to speed-up its nationalisation of the island’s airport “in the best interests of the Bahamian people”. Gregory Laroda told a webinar organised by the Government-appointed Economic Re
GB Shipyard cuts further 65 workers
Grand Bahama Shipyard was last said to have laid-off a further 65 workers in what sources described as a third round of cuts as Tribune Business went to press. The company was not available for comment last night, but a well-placed source - speaking
COVID TAKES HIGH TOLL ON MARRIAGE: Lawyers report surge in couples looking to divorce after lockdown
PROMINENT attorneys yesterday revealed “a tremendous increase” in divorce cases coming before them following the end of the first COVID-19 nationwide lockdown.
Frontline police now fitted with body cams
THE Royal Bahamas Police Force has officially launched the use of body worn cameras for its first responders and front line officers.
‘Officers were collecting meals for inmates’
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle said yesterday that a restaurant that has been opened in the Golden Gates Shopping Plaza during lockdown is one of several servicing people in police custody, but it should not be selling food to members of the general public.
Grand Bahama’s clean-up gathers 1,000 derelict cars
About 1,000 derelict vehicles have been removed so far on Grand Bahama as part of a major clean-up initiative underway in Freeport to restore ‘the second city’ back to a state of cleanliness it was once known for.
Ayton and Suns miss out on Western play-in game
Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns will miss out on the Western Conference “Play-In” game, despite a late run at the postseason that became a captivating storyline of the NBA restart.
51 new cases as surge goes on
NEW Providence recorded a new single-day record of 51 confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday.
About 15 student-athletes sign up for scholarships
THE Bahamas Parents Association of Student Athletes is doing all it can to assist as many Bahamian student-athletes attain their goal of competing and earning a degree at various NAIA, Junior College and NCAA divisional colleges and universities in the United States.
Kings sink 21 3s, roll to win as Lakers rest most starters
BUDDY Hield concluded the Sacramento Kings’ 2019-20 season with one of his traditional streaky shooting performances and a win over an in-state rival.
New visa scheme to let people work or study in Bahamas for a year
CABINET has approved a recommendation from the Economic Recovery Committee to introduce an extended stay visa programme so foreigners can work or study in The Bahamas for a year.
Armed robbery sentences quashed by Court of Appeal
THE Court of Appeal yesterday quashed the armed robbery sentences of two men who were accused of stealing an assortment of items from a woman in 2014, after they argued the trial judge erred when he allowed “prejudicial evidence” to be admitted into their trial.
Air conditioning unit thieves must pay up or cool off in prison
THREE men who admitted to stealing two air conditioning units and posting them online for sale at a reduced price were ordered to pay fines of a combined total of $4,000 or risk spending six months in prison.
Eight months in jail for breaking into car to steal items
A MAN was sentenced to eight months in prison yesterday after he admitted to breaking into another man’s car to steal an assortment of items earlier this year.
Teenager on gun charge is granted bail
A TEENAGER, arraigned on a charge of illegal firearm possession, was yesterday granted bail ahead of his trial.
'Low hanging fruit' for business ideas
The years 2020 ,and perhaps 2021, will prove to be seasons where entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity will thrive. With thousands of well-established businesses failing under the COVID-19 cloud, and literally millions being laid off the world
Long Island slows despite re-opening
Long Island businesses yesterday said the economy remains slow due to the absence of international visitors even though it has been released from the latest COVID-19 lockdown. Jennifer Cartwright-Butler, owner/operator of Jen C Collection, told Trib
Family Island set out infrastructure challenge
Family Island Chamber of Commerce heads are arguing that infrastructure and communications development concerns are a major obstacle hindering their islands’ economic development. Speaking at an Economic Recovery Committee (ERC) Town Hall meeting ye
Govt promises shared economy funding boost
A top Ministry of Finance official yesterday said “direct funding” is being provided for Bahamians wishing to pool resources and enter the vacation rental market. Marlon Johnson, acting financial secretary, told an Economic Recovery Committee webina
Exuma fears 'established' businesses facing closure
Exuma’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said there are “rumblings” that some “established” businesses on the island may permanently close once the COVID-19 lockdown is lifted. Pedro Rolle, pictured , while not naming any specific companies,
Thursday, August 13
53 cases of COVID-19 reported on Thursday
The Ministry of Health reported on Thursday that there are 53 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: Why do some get to show such blatant disregard?
THE news that there were another 40 cases of COVID-19 in New Providence yesterday means it looks increasingly likely that the national lockdown will be extended.
STATESIDE: Harris is a huge boost to Biden’s ticket as Trump looks ever more desperate
Did the selection on Tuesday of Kamala Harris as Joe Biden’s 2020 running mate surprise you? It had seemed in recent weeks that Biden would select a black woman as his vice president, and much recent speculation centred around two accomplished women born to equally accomplished parents.
FRONT PORCH: We fight as hard as we can but there is no escaping the darker side of human nature
In The Netherlands, new daily coronavirus infections are currently back to “roughly half their level at the peak of the pandemic.” The French Prime Minister said he is trying to avoid another lockdown amid a “worrying increase” in cases.
$30m debris clearout starting to look good
The Disaster Reconstruction Authority has spent $30 million to date in debris removal on Grand Bahama and Abaco, Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness Iram Lewis said on Wednesday as he announced the continuation of “intensified” debris clean u
Thompson calls for public to take health warnings seriously
Following criticism over the COVID-19 response on Grand Bahama, Minister of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson assured that government is working aggressively in the ongoing fight against the spread of the coronavirus.
'I'm used to working hard for what I get - this is like begging'
MANY Bahamians who are recipients of the $1m a week National Food Distribution Programme say they are grateful, but others are expressing anger in having to rely on it in the first place. In June when COVID-19 restrictions began to relax, the govern
Public losing confidence in Minnis, claims Davis
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis said unfair application of emergency orders have caused the public to lose confidence in Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. “The orders appeared to us to be driven by political convenience and pres
INTERNATIONAL NEWS: UAE to establish full diplomatic ties with Israel
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel and the United Arab Emirates announced Thursday they are establishing full diplomatic relations in a U.S.-brokered deal that required Israel to halt its contentious plan to annex occupied West Bank land sought by the Palestinians.
‘Boiling point’ struck on COVID open inequality
A Bahamian businessman yesterday revealed he has reached "boiling point" over the "inequality" that is allowing some competitors to open amid the COVID-19 lockdown while he and others remain closed.
Further lockdowns ‘point of no return’
Any further blanket COVID-19 lockdown could push the Bahamian economy past “the point of no return” and cause “irreparable damage” lasting for years, an accountant warned yesterday.
Govt agency closures ‘drag commerce down’
The inability of the government’s key commercial agencies to function amid the COVID-19 lockdown is “dragging commerce down” and slowing what little activity remains, an attorney warned yesterday.
Super Value chief: COVID vulnerable must remain home
Super Value’s president has suggested that all persons aged over 65, and those with pre-existing medical conditions, remain at home to facilitate the Bahamian economy’s COVID-19 re-opening.
Commercial landlords urged: Set out strategy through year-end 2020
A major property manager is urging commercial landlords to develop a “long-term plan” that tackles COVID-19 uncertainty by taking themselves and their tenants through to end-2020.
LEADING US BY EXAMPLE: The Tribune witnesses police officers defying restaurant lockdown rule
DESPITE Emergency Powers Orders that prohibit the opening of restaurants in New Providence, people - including Royal Bahamas Police Force officers - have been patronising a popular eatery on the island.
Virus forces closure of govt offices as cases pass 1,000
THE Bahamas reached the grim milestone of more than 1,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday as government offices continued to shut down after exposure to the virus.
Legal bid to erase COVID convictions
LAWYER Wayne Munroe is representing 21 people who are suing Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for matters related to the state of emergency and COVID-19 regulations.
Ballin’ By Da Beach to host virtual basketball camp
BALLIN’ By Da Beach Basketball Camp continues its effort of engaging with its participants virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fine over stolen car
A man who bought a stolen car he could not produce a bill of sale for was fined $1,500 yesterday by Magistrate Samuel McKinney. Phillip McCartney, 37, was charged with dishonestly receiving a stolen $15,000 Toyota Mark sometime between October 28, 2
Staff in quarantine in Abaco after being exposed to COVID-19
NORTH and Central Abaco Administrator Terrece Bootle-Laing and around 10 of her staff are in quarantine on Abaco after being exposed to COVID-19 earlier this week. The administrator told The Tribune yesterday she and her colleagues were placed on a
Father fined for getting water for his children
A 29-year-old man who claimed he violated the national curfew because he was trying to get water for his children was fined $500 yesterday. Wilmer Pierre appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after officers found him on Cowpen Road around 1am o
$1.5k fine for threatening to kill his ex
A 33-year-old man who last week threatened to kill his ex-girlfriend was fined $1,500 in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Brandon Fisher appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after he was accused of making death threats to his ex-girlfriend on A
New Olympic website to better serve athletes and fans
THE Bahamas Olympic Committee (BOC) launched its new website today, aiming to keep pace with a technologically advanced world in order to better serve athletes and sport supporters.
Ordered to compensate for ATM theft
A 30-year-old man who stole nearly $10,000 from a ScotiaBank ATM machine last month was ordered to compensate the local bank or risk spending a year behind bars. Travis Seymour was accused of stealing $4,040 from a ScotiaBank Bahamas Limited ATM mac
Decision Day for Ayton and Suns
THE outcome of Deandre Ayton and the Phoenix Suns’ potentially historic run at the NBA playoffs will be decided tonight on the penultimate day of the NBA’s seeding games.
Rolle named deputy director of athletics
Bahamian administrator Jermaine Rolle has been appointed to a major post at an NCAA Division I programme.
CONCACAF: First round draw set to be hosted August 19
THE preliminary draw has been set as CONCACAF continues to reveal its restructured qualification process for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Funds needed in quick time for rental help
We would like to commend the Government of the Bahamas for the work of the National Food Distribution Task Force, which has impacted the lives of thousands of needy Bahamians in search of food in the COVID-19 pandemic. Those among us that are most vulnerable have been targeted to receive assistance to the tune of 1 million dollars per week. While this feat is quite admirable, thousands of unemployed Bahamians have been unable to pay their rent, mortgages, bank loans and other commitments.
Insulted by this trash talk
I must, outrightly, disclose that I myself have neither been informed nor benefitted by a personal read concerning “conduct” and its “code” – as expounded upon, evidently, in 1955 England, the Lord High Chancellor, Viscount Kilmuir, at the time the highest ranking judicial officer in Britain (see The Graduate’s Letter- to- Editor, The Tribune of Monday, August 10th, 2020). I have not had the privilege yet.
An inspirational leader in waiting
Would you kindly permit me some of your valuable space in your prestigious newspaper to share my thoughts on the Hon. Shanendon Cartwright.
Wednesday, August 12
Alumni worried over future of UB North
The Grand Bahama Chapter of the University of the Bahamas Alumni Association is concerned over the uncertainty surrounding the future of the UB North, specifically the completion of a new campus at a downtown location in Freeport. Following last yea
47 new cases of COVID-19 – total number passes 1,000
The Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday that there are 47 new cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: No one is immune
WE have heard often during the COVID-19 pandemic that the virus can affect anyone, rich or poor, in any part of society – and the news that both the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister are self-quarantining is as sure a sign of that as you could find.
ALICIA WALLACE: There are too many unanswered questions and a lack of respect
We are now in our second week of lockdown and received a national address from the Prime Minister on Sunday evening which gave very little information.
Tyson's rumble on the reef
Grand Bahama received major international exposure during the Discovery Channel’s Shark Week aired on Sunday starring boxer Mike Tyson at Tiger Beach.
BPL switches billing dates to help customers
BPL has modified its billing dates to allow customers to receive bills by the 20th of each month.
Rolle defends NIB's payment operations
NATIONAL Insurance Board Minister Brensil Rolle has defended operations at NIB’s cheque distribution centre, saying while there were some challenges with the process, officials were still able to dole out a "significant number" of payments.
Bar Association calls for ‘open’ process
THE Bahamas Bar Association said the process that led to the country’s latest judicial appointment was a missed chance for the government to show its commitment to the rule of law.
COVID-19: Ministry of Health headquarters closed
The Ministry of Health headquarters is closed this afternoon after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.
Ministry of Works closed after COVID-19 exposure
The Ministry of Works has been closed after exposure to COVID-19.
North and Central Abaco Administrator and staff in quarantine
NORTH and Central Abaco Administrator Terrece Bootle-Laing and around ten staff members are in quarantine after being exposed to COVID-19 earlier this week.
Bahamas confronts 'Sir Stafford Sands moment'
COVID-19 has created “a Sir Stafford Sands moment” for The Bahamas to transform its economy and “leap” into the 21st century, an ex-Cabinet minister argued yesterday. Alfred Sears QC, a former attorney general, told Tribune Business that the country
Ex-AG: Govt agencies must 'raise their game'
Key government agencies that form The Bahamas’ commercial hub were yesterday urged by an ex-attorney general to rapidly “step up their game” in adapting to COVID-19’s digital business demands.John Delaney, now principal at the Delaney Partners law fi
Business payroll relief gets $19.5m IDB funding boost
Some $19.5m in Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funding has been reallocated to payroll support for Bahamian businesses amid COVID-19, the deputy prime minister confirmed last night. K Peter Turnquest told Tribune Business that the multilateral
Digital payments provider eyes 50k year-end users
A Bahamian digital payments provider yesterday said the COVID-19 pandemic has helped it exceed first-year expectations “by almost 100 percent” as it targets 50,000 active users by 2020 year-end.Keith Davies, Kanoo’s chairman and chief executive, told
Jobless Bahamians fume at third-party benefits provider
Irate jobless Bahamians have blasted a third-party digital payments provider for its failure to provide them with much-needed benefits and income support amid the COVID-19 crisis.Island Pay’s Facebook page has been inundated with postings by angry Ba
PM QUARANTINES: Turnquest also in isolation and staff urged to follow suit
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest voluntarily entered self-quarantine “out of an abundance of caution” yesterday after someone who works at the Cecil Wallace-Whitfield Centre tested positive for COVID-19.
Experts confirm border move to blame for surge
A PAN American Health Organisation official has attributed the alarming number of COVID-19 cases in The Bahamas to the opening of borders allowing non-essential travel and citizens visiting destinations where the virus has skyrocketed.
Police shootings ‘part of the job’
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday called the latest police-involved shooting that led to a man being killed and two officers injured “unfortunate” but noted such incidents are “the nature of the business”.
Early move on medical marijuana?
THE Bahamas Marijuana Commission is resuming its work this week with its co-chair Quinn McCartney admitting it will be challenging to fully decriminalise the substance in two years even though “low-hanging fruits” like medical marijuana can be legalised in that time.
27-year-old accused of indecent assault
A 27-year-old man has been remanded to prison over an allegation he indecently assaulted a woman earlier this week.
Firearm charges
A 33-year-old man was charged with illegal firearm and ammunition possession in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Strachan: ‘I see things that I need to improve on’
IN what could be considered her “saving grace” as she continues to revitalise her promising young career, Bahamian sprinter Anthonique Strachan said she finds herself in the right atmosphere at the right time.
Man fined $6,000 for marijuana possession
A 55-year-old man who was found with over three pounds of marijuana was fined $6,000 in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Fined $500 for going to get food for his children
A 28-year-old man who said he violated national lockdown to get food for his children was fined $500 yesterday.
We need to care for those who have hit rock bottom
The Tribune broke the story that Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis will be going into self-quarantine due to possible exposure to COVID-19 at the Cecil Wallace-Whitfield Centre.
Some fast food for thought
Yesterday morning while shopping at the Golden Gates shopping centre I noticed that Super Value wasn’t the only hub of activity.
Life can't go on like this past September
So, we are on lockdown until September 30, 2020. Let’s pray that everything works out by then. We are really a lockdown-weary people right now. Life cannot continue on this road beyond September – in my opinion.
Ayton and Suns 7-0, stay in hunt for play-in spot
Bahamian centre Deandre Ayton and his Phoenix Suns kept their playoff hopes alive with a 130-117 rout over the Philadelphia 76ers yesterday in the National Basketball Association’s bubble at the ESPN Wild World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.
Miller-Uibo opts out of 100m final at Sprint Showcase
AS a precautionary measure after a sub-par performance in the preliminaries, Bahamian Olympic 400 metre champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo opted not to compete in the women’s 100m final at the Star Athletic Sprint Showcase.
Bahamians told: Brace for 100% lumber hike
A Nassau-based building supplier yesterday warned consumers to brace for at least a 100 percent increase in lumber prices during this hurricane season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Raymond Collins, Tops Lumber and Plumbing’s general manager, told Trib
Bahamas in southern boating 'travel bubble'
The Bahamas is promoting its COVID-19 free southern islands as a “travel bubble” for visiting boaters in a bid to retain at least some tourism business, a top official said yesterday. Joy Jibrulu, pictured , the Ministry of Tourism’s director genera
Regulator probes meat, rubbing alcohol 'gouging'
Price regulators yesterday said they were probing potential cases of meat and rubbing alcohol gouging by pharmacies and food stores.Danny Sumner, the Price Control Commissions (PCC) chairman, told Tribune Business: “I have gotten a few complaints thi
Tuesday, August 11
44 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Tuesday
The Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday that there are 44 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: When does a good deal become a bad deal?
BACK in July 2018, there was a bold promise.
PETER YOUNG: We can’t be held hostage to fear, waiting for a cure while the economy dies
If you mention The Bahamas to people in Britain, there is likely to be a positive reaction because the country is seen as a most desirable tourist destination. Such is the country’s fine reputation, it is no exaggeration to say the name itself seems to carry a certain aura. Last week, however, it hit the headlines for the wrong reasons.
FACE TO FACE: From ‘playing doctor’ as a child, Theresa’s now in the frontline of our battle with COVID
If all is well the latest national lockdown will lift next week. For that to happen experience tells us we will need to have seen a period when there were no new cases. This is what allowed our southern islands to be taken out of lockdown on Sunday.
Second COVID-19 wave is worse, warns Bartlett
Dr Frank Bartlett, the coordinator at the GB Health Services COVID-19 Task Force has revealed that patients contracting the coronavirus in the second wave are “more sicker” and are hospitalized “much longer” than those in the first wave. He also dis
Biden selects Sen. Kamala Harris as running mate
First Black woman to compete on a major party's presidential ticket
WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Joe Biden named California Sen. Kamala Harris as his running mate on Tuesday, making history by selecting the first Black woman to compete on a major party's presidential ticket and acknowledging the vital role Black voters will play in his bid to defeat President Donald Trump.
PM and Deputy PM to self-quarantine after Cecil Wallace-Whitfield Centre exposed to COVID-19
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest will go into self-quarantine after the Cecil Wallace-Whitfield Centre closed following exposure to COVID-19.
Long lines of jobless queue for assistance
HUNDREDS of unemployed workers flocked to the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium yesterday, queuing in long lines to collect assistance cheques from the National Insurance Board after weeks of waiting to receive payouts.This comes after NIB Minister
We won’t ’Shell’ Bahamas short
A Cabinet minister yesterday pledged that Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) "will not sell the Bahamian people short" in negotiations with Shell North America over New Providence's new power plant.
Lawyers losing out in lockdown
Commercial lawyers have seen business volumes plunge by up to 80 percent amid the latest COVID-19 lockdown, two ex-Cabinet ministers disclosed yesterday, describing the impact as “tremendous”.
FDI’s 33% decline ‘horrendous signal’
The 33 percent decline in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in 2019 is “an horrendous signal” for The Bahamas’ prospects of replacing tourism’s earnings, a governance reformer has warned.
Cruise lines urged: Come to our cities once you return
A Cabinet minister yesterday promised to “encourage” the cruise lines to visit The Bahamas’ major cities immediately upon the resumption of sailing despite the sector’s preference for its private islands.
Pharmacies push govt for easing of patient pains
Pharmacies yesterday urged the government to permit five days per week opening and to better define what “curbside service” means for the industry during the present COVID-19 lockdown.
COVID alcohol bar cuts Brewery revenue 48%
Commonwealth Brewery has disclosed that the COVID-19-related bar on alcohol sales slashed its 2020 second quarter revenues by 48 percent year-over-year, dropping it to a $3.16m first half net loss.
One-year's probation for drug possession
A 20-year-old man caught by police with a weed brownie was placed on one-year probation by a magistrate yesterday. Chrishon Forbes was charged with drug possession after officers seized 1.58 ounces of Indian Hemp from him on August 1. The court was
As cases rise to 945, one resident urges young people to take it seriously
AS COVID-19 cases in the country yesterday climbed to 945, an Abaco resident who has the virus says he wants young people to take it more seriously, saying it is “nothing to play around with” even for those with strong immune systems. According to t
Paradise Island home badly damaged by fire
A HOME at Ocean Club Estates, Paradise Island, was extensively damaged in a fire on Sunday night. According to Fire Services Director Superintendent Kenrick Morris the cause of the blaze is unknown at this time. No one was injured and a vehicle was
PLP targets ‘failings’ in efforts to help Grand Bahama
THE Progressive Liberal Party knocked Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ national address yesterday, saying it failed to properly address the needs of Grand Bahama residents.
FAMILY ROW ENDS IN DEADLY SHOOTOUT
A MAN was fatally shot by police yesterday at Pinewood Gardens after he allegedly opened fire on officers and his mother following a heated “domestic” dispute over prayers.
Brother slaps sister in the face
A 28-year-old man who slapped his younger sister in the face was charged with assault yesterday. Police arrested Jermaine Smith Jr after his sister reported him for slapping her in the face sometime around 12.20pm on July 20. Smith Jr admitted to t
23-year-old on rape charge
A 23-year-old Grand Bahama man was charged with rape in the Freeport Magistrate Court yesterday. Kenneth Farrington appeared before Magistrate Charlton Smith in Court Two. It is alleged that on August 4 at Freeport the accused had sexual intercourse
Man ordered to pay theft compensation
A 54-year-old man was yesterday ordered to compensate a woman he stole more than $1,000 worth of building supplies from last month. Patrick Gray was accused of stealing 32 bundles of shingles and 12 gallons of paint from a woman sometime between Jul
Fisherman admits assault
A 29-year-old male resident of Grand Cay, Abaco, was convicted of causing grievous harm after admitting to punching to a man in the face who was hospitalized after suffering a concussion and left with several missing teeth. Elvardo Cooper, 29, was a
Charged with damaging car
A 32-year-old man was charged with causing damage in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Monday. Deshawn Laing appeared before Magistrate Charlton Smith in Court One, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge. It is alleged that on August 5, the acc
Leaders who are going nowhere
The Tribune reported that there were 48 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday.
To make wise decisions, we need the facts
COVID-19 started in December 2019; possibly earlier. In order to contain the virus, The Bahamas and countries around the world went into lockdown. We were asked to be patient and told the lockdown would not last long.
SIX STRAIGHT: Ayton and Suns in win column again
The Phoenix Suns had some nervous moments early on with Deandre Ayton on the sidelines but were able to right the ship and keep their undefeated streak alive in the NBA bubble.
‘Buddy’ and Kings eliminated from NBA playoffs contention
THE Sacramento Kings have been eliminated from playoff contention for the 14th consecutive season.
Tennis player Shepherd will stay at home until January
WITH the collegiate sports programmes taking shape in the landscape of the coronavirus pandemic, tennis player Iesha Shepherd will be one of those Bahamian student-athletes who will be staying at home until January.
Boaters hit by inter-isle quarantine restrictions
Bahamian marinas yesterday voiced fears it may be “too late” to prevent visiting boaters bypassing this nation in favour of the southern Caribbean due to the latest COVID-19 lockdown.
Davis: ‘No surprise’ on BPL power plant woe
The government’s political opponents yesterday argued there was “no surprise” that Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) multi-fuel power plant deal with Shell had seemingly run into difficulty.
Food retailer sees no benefit in extra hours
One food retailer yesterday said that extending Saturday shopping until 6pm for “essential workers” will only produce losses through driving up costs without the revenue earnings to match.
Monday, August 10
47 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Monday
The Ministry of Health reported on Monday that there are 47 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19.
08102020 EDITION
Monday, 10th August, 2020.
EDITORIAL: We need to stay resolute
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced the relaxation of lockdown restrictions for southern islands yesterday while disclosing efforts to add an additional 80 beds to the frontline fight against COVID-19.
WORLD VIEW: Guyana’s election impasse may be resolved but so much more is yet to be tackled
THE one upside of the challenges facing the Government of Guyana after a five-month impasse in declaring the result of general elections on March 2, is that the country’s economic growth in 2020 is projected at a whopping 52.8 percent – surpassing all 26 Latin American and Caribbean states. This trend is likely to continue for many years to come.
INSIGHT – Shell’s message: Our ability to invest remains dependent on the timely closure of current negotiations with BPL and the government
We are living in a crisis of uncertainty. In just a few months, we have seen the world go into lockdown mode in the face of an historic pandemic, causing serious impact to the global economy and upturning each of our lives. And as Bahamians know too well, this has happened less than a year since Hurricane Dorian, The Bahamas’ worst natural disaster ever, destroyed the beautiful islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama.
Public urged to be prepared for hurricanes
WEATHER officials are urging the public to remain prepared during the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season as the number of predicted systems continue to increase in what experts say is as an “above-average” season.
INSIGHT: We’re in a war and we’re losing - we need to bury petty differences and work together
THERE is no doubt our initial success in warding off COVID-19 was merely a test run. Indeed, we are in the thick of things as we may have overestimated our ability to open the country with cases surging in the United States.
I've not been contacted BPL probe, says Osborne
FORMER Bahamas Power and Light chairwoman Darnell Osborne says she has not been contacted concerning a promised investigation into what caused the collapse of BPL’s board when she led the team in 2018.
Nurses getting burnt out, says union chief
BAHAMAS Nurses Union president Amancha Williams said some nurses are burnt out and discouraged from volunteering their services due to the way health officials are organising the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Officials probe three COVID deaths
HEALTH officials are investigating three potential COVID-19 deaths as the country recorded 69 confirmed cases of the virus on Friday, a new single-day record.
Family Island residents get together to help each other
FAMILY Islanders have felt the economic pressure of COVID-19 since the borders initially closed in March—the start of the high tourism season.
Minnis: $1m a week for food task force
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said $1m is being provided to the National Food Distribution Task Force each week to help people who need food during the COVID-19 crisis.
Man shot dead by police in Pinewood Gardens
A man was shot dead by police and two officers were injured after a shootout in Pinewood Gardens on Monday.
Foreign investment flows slump by 33%
Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the Bahamian economy fell by one-third in 2019, it has been revealed, signalling it is unlikely to fill the COVID-19 foreign currency vacuum left by tourism. The just-released World Investment Report 2020
Lockdown 'seesaw' simply unsustainable
Eleuthera’s Chamber of Commerce president has warned the economy “cannot live on the lockdown seesaw for ever”, with The Bahamas now facing a “salvage” as opposed to recovery operation. Thomas Sands, in e-mailed replies to Tribune Business questions
Shell urges ‘timely’ power plant closing
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chairman yesterday pledged he is focused on “getting the best possible deal” for its new power plant as its multinational partner called for “the timely closure” of negotiations.
Tourism 'cannot' return amid surge
The Bahamas “cannot” relaunch its vital tourism industry until the latest COVID-19 outbreak is contained and a “strict 14-day quarantine” regime in place, a Cabinet minister warned yesterday. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, war
ActivTrades: Lessons to learn from the Swedes softly-softly approach
While most countries around the world reacted to the COVID pandemic by imposing strict social distancing measures, often requiring the shutting down of large sectors of their economies, one nation stands out, having decided to take an alternative approach. I am of course referring to Sweden.
We need to stay resolute: PM warns lockdown must continue as another death recorded and cases rising
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced the relaxation of lockdown restrictions for southern islands yesterday while disclosing efforts to add an additional 80 beds to the frontline fight against COVID-19.
War of words over court appointment
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis says he opposes the recent appointment of Supreme Court Justice Carolita Bethel to the Court of Appeal. His statement yesterday drew rebuke from Attorney General Carl Bethel who accused him of launching a “highly politicised attack aimed at the constitution itself and the learned justice of appeal personally”.
Stick to what you know and don't deal in rumour
There’s a video on YouTube and Facebook of a Gulf stream G650ER leaving the Lynden Pindling International Airport several days ago.
Madam Justice is out of order with her views
If Joan Sawyer was just an ordinary retired senior citizen she would be well within her remit to wax eloquent on any subject her heart desires.
Freezing toads unethical
I read your article about the authorities’ “battle” with cane toads and how they could be “humanely euthanised”.
Ayton posts double double, Suns win 5th straight in NBA Bubble
THE Phoenix Suns are the lone undefeated team at the NBA restart in Orlando, Florida.
Velocity Fest: Sprinter Strachan races to victory and a third place
With the Jamaican athletic scene turning to some sort of normalcy in the coronavirus pandemic, Bahamian sprinter Anthonique Strachan produced a couple of impressive results over the weekend in a series of Velocity Fest meets against some of the top female sprinters on the island.
NCAA decision will affect several Bahamian student athletes
IN a decision that will affect several Bahamian student athletes, both NCAA Division II and Division III have cancelled their 2020 Fall championships.
Marc Bircham confirmed as BFA’s new technical director
FORMER Queens Park Rangers captain Marc Bircham, having dealt with a court matter that sidelined his trip here, is confirmed as the Bahamas Football Association’s new technical director.
Long Island 'excited' on lockdown release
Long Island’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said she was “very excited” that the island has been released from the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown and can resume commerce from today. However, Cheryl de Goicoechea told Tribune Business that Lo
GB companies exploit lockdown to restructure
Some Grand Bahama businesses say they are using the latest COVID-19 lockdown to complete internal projects and restructuring that would have been difficult had they remained open.James Rolle, Dolly Madison’s general manager, said: “What we’re doing i
Water suppliers now face bottle shortages
A water provider is urging the government to permit its bottle suppliers to open during the COVID-19 lockdown to prevent raw materials shortages that impact customers.Andrew Clarke, owner/operator of Crystal Select, told Tribune Business: “The only t
Delivery firms argue lockdown 'too narrow'
The delivery firms previously hailed by the prime minister are now pressing for relaxation of the present lockdown restrictions after being hurt by the immediate total shutdown of many business clients.Granville Collie, MUTRU’s managing director, tol
Chamber chief hails relaxation for Abaco
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday hailed the relaxation of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on that island as “welcome news” for its post-Dorian reconstruction. Ken Hutton, pictured , told Tribune Business he had been requesting the chan
Lock-out criminals by true client verification
Criminals may be locked down, but are we - as risk and compliance professionals - ensuring they are also locked out of our financial systems? While the cycles of lockdowns and curfews continue based on COVID-19’s worldwide impact, one fact is certain
Scotiabank set to expand new deposit ABM roll-out
Scotiabank (Bahamas) has confirmed it plans to expand the roll-out of its “smart” or Intelligent Deposit Machine (IDM) network to improve convenience and efficiency for its customers. Roger Archer, Scotiabank (Bahamas) managing director, said six ID
Sunday, August 9
PM announces 20 new cases, relaxation of lockdown measures for some islands
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis on Sunday announced the relaxation of lockdown measures on some islands.
BPL SkyGuard Severe Weather Warning – Freeport
STARTS: 08/09/2020 3:40 PM EDT EXPIRES: 08/09/2020 9:00 PM EDT
48 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Saturday
The Ministry of Health reported on Saturday that there are 48 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Saturday, August 8
Man in hospital after shooting
A man is in hospital after a shooting in Yellow Elder Gardens early on Friday.
Friday, August 7
UPDATED: 69 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19
HEALTH officials are investigating three to four potential COVID-19 deaths as the country recorded 69 confirmed cases of the virus on Friday, a new record.
Michael Pintard relaunches Backyard Farming Programme
AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister Michael Pintard relaunched the Backyard Farming Programme on Friday, distributing 1,500 backyard kits here on Grand Bahama.
Singer fined $450 for after making threats
A LOCAL singer who posted a video making death threats against police officers and calling for the government to be overthrown was fined $450 on Friday.
Man charged with burglary, rape and stealing
A 55-year-old man who said he broke into people’s homes and stole their belongings to support his cocaine addiction was arraigned on Friday on a string of burglary charges and accused of rape. He will appear before the chief magistrate next week for sentencing.
Man accused of indecently assaulting two minors
A 31-year-old man who was accused of indecently assaulting two minors has been granted bail ahead of his trial.
EDITORIAL: US cheek to issue travel warning
IT takes some audacity for the United States to issue a “do not travel” alert for The Bahamas because of the risk of catching COVID-19.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Cocooning in the time of COVID
Staying at home is changing our lives in ways we never imagined. We grew up thinking we had to go to school, get into and through college if we were able, so we could “go out” into the world and find a job and later, when we were old, be able to retire and stay home.
A COMIC'S VIEW: If the animals could talk to Farmer Minnis
In the days following the outbreak of COVID-19 at the Grand Barn, many areas of the Farm started to deteriorate quickly. Farmer Minnis held a meeting on a Friday and told all the animals that he would lock down the farm for the weekend starting on Saturday.
Nearly 400 invasive cane toads caught
NEARLY 400 cane toads have been caught as the battle against the invasive species continues. The Bahamas National Trust in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Environmental Health and the Best Commission have captured 39
Tributes paid to Black Tuesday veteran Effie Walkes
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party stalwart councillor Effie Walkes, famed for her role in Black Tuesday, died yesterday at the age of 96.Ms Walkes, a political activist of her era, is known for the vital role she played in organising Black Tuesday, an event
Customs officers in quarantine
SEVERAL customs officers in Abaco have been placed under quarantine after a worker was reportedly exposed to a COVID-19 positive patient on the island, prompting officials there to close the Customs Department at the Leonard M Thompson International
'Budget for survival' on new cruise delay
Bay Street merchants and other cruise ship-dependent sectors were yesterday urged to “budget for survival” until at least 2020 year-end after the industry further delayed its return to November. Charles Klonaris, the Downtown Nassau Partnership’s (D
Supply disruption may cause ‘10% hit’ for contractors
Bahamian contractors may suffer up to “a ten percent bottom line hit” due to supply chain disruption during the COVID-19 lockdown, an ex-Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) chief said yesterday.
Retailer says curb side 'very hard to execute'
A major Bahamian hardware retailer yesterday said its online sales were equal to just 20 percent of those generated in-store, describing curb side sales as “very difficult to execute”. Brent Burrows, CBS Bahamas (Commonwealth Building Supplies) gene
Insurer expands to US Virgin islands
A Bahamian insurer has expanded into the US Virgin Islands (USVI) to further its goal of reducing reliance on this nation to just 60 percent of its total business portfolio.Anton Saunders, RoyalStar Assurance’s managing director, told Tribune Busines
More firms facing 'death sentence'
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president last warned that more and more businesses are being “handed a death sentence” as the island’s COVID-19 lockdown was extended to August 19. Greg Laroda told Tribune Business that The Bahamas needed to “fin
23 PATIENTS GET VIRUS ON WARD: Single Sandilands employee passes on COVID as health officials deny PPE shortage
THE Public Hospitals Authority confirmed yesterday that 23 people have tested positive for COVID-19 on the male ward of the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre.
Grand Bahama lockdown extended by 12 days
Minister of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson announced yesterday the lockdown implemented in Grand Bahama will be extended to August 19.
Family’s grief as man is shot dead
A FAMILY has been left grieving after their loved one was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon.
Luciano’s staff will receive their cash
FORMER staff members of Luciano’s have threatened to take legal action over severance pay, but a spokesperson for the popular high-end eatery says it’s a “non-issue” that will be taken care of in the weeks ahead.
Man jailed over illegal gun
A 24-year-old man was yesterday sentenced to 15 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to illegal firearm and ammunition possession. He is the brother of the man who attempted to plead guilty for the same crime to protect his mother on Wednesday.
Jailed for spitting in strangers' faces
A 51-year-old man who said he spat in the faces of two strangers because that’s what he felt like doing at the time was sentenced to two months in prison yesterday.
PAHO donates equipment and tests to help fight
THE Pan American Health Organisation presented the Ministry of Health with equipment and COVID-19 tests to assist in the fight against the disease. The donation included laboratory equipment, COVID-19 tests, laptops, mobile phones and modems. A hand
Former FNM chairman and Senator Ferguson dies
FORMER Free National Movement (FNM) Chairman and past Senator Johnley Ferguson died yesterday morning. He was 69-years-old. Mr Ferguson was appointed senator in May 2007 and was elected vice-president of the Senate. He resigned from the upper chambe
‘We need answers on COVID-19’
BAHAMAS Customs, Immigration & Allied Workers Union officials say union members want better communication from government officials on efforts to protect workers from contracting COVID-19.
Premature opening of borders
THE Competent Authority and his disjointed cabinet made the decision, collectively, to prematurely open the nation’s borders and to permit Bahamians to travel in and out of the USA (inclusive of hot spot areas like Florida) and to re-enter the country without being tested or quarantined if the travel period was less than 72 hours.
Time for Minnis to be ousted
It seems that our system of governance has devolved into a discretionary representative democracy. Politicians get elected claiming they will represent the interests of the people and somewhere along the way they seem to only represent their own interests. I don’t know when it happened, but it has been that way for decades.
Trump reduces U.S. to Third World
In my opinion US President Donald Trump, who is going through many twists and turns to be re-elected President of the United States, has certainly succeeded in reducing the status of the US presidency to third world status.
Ayton: 'Respect us'
The Sacramento Kings finally got into the win column while the Phoenix Suns became the only 4-0 team in the NBA restart at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida.
Poitier: ‘I’m just coaching club volleyball right now’
AFTER completing his tenure at Florida State College at Jacksonville, Bahamian coach Edric ‘Drips’ Poitier turned his attention to his Powers Volleyball Club in Jacksonville, Florida in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
Suppliers able to restock retailers
Food retailers yesterday confirmed that major wholesale suppliers have been allowed to restock their stores on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s amid the latest COVID-19 lockdown. Cyril Carey, general manager of Kenneth’s Food Store on Prince Charles Drive,
Barbers, salons: 'No one talking of closing'
Barbers, hair salons and spas have vowed “to cope” with their latest COVID-19 lockdown as one industry representative revealed: “No one is saying they are going to close down.” Dellarese Taylor, the Bahamian Cosmetologists and Barbers Association’s
IDB loans $200m to aid business climate
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) yesterday said it has approved a $200m loan to boost the business climate through increased productivity, innovation and greater diversification. The multilateral lender said the initiative would support the
How to cope with lockdown stress
The past five months have been a difficult time for businesses and employees as they grapple with reduced hours, pay, work and customer engagement due to COVID-19. These losses have resulted in stress which, for many, has become distress. Large numbe
Landscapers: Two-day opening 'is not working'
Landscapers yesterday said the exemption allowing themselves and pool maintenance companies to operate two days per week during the COVID-19 lockdown “didn’t work then and is not working now”.Conray Rolle, interim chairman of the Bahamas Landscaping
Thursday, August 6
UPDATED: U.S. State Department advises against travel to The Bahamas
On Thursday, the Bahamas became the only country in the English-speaking Caribbean to receive a level four travel advisory from the United States indicating that US residents should not travel here because of the “health and safety measures and COVID-19 related conditions”.
10 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Thursday
The Ministry of Health reported on Thursday that there are 10 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: With the national lockdown underway, the real economic risks are being made clear
THE Bahamas Federation of Retailers has warned that this could be “the nail in the coffin” that shuts the doors of a number of companies. With that would go jobs, with more than 22,000 working in the sector.
Grand Bahama lockdown extended
Grand Bahama’s lockdown has been extended to 5am on Wednesday, August 19, Minister of State for Grand Bahama Senator Kwasi Thompson announced during a press conference on Thursday.
STATESIDE: Biden won’t come out to fight leaving everyone guessing who’s going to be standing beside him
It’s pretty clear the dreadful COVID-19 virus is helping Joe Biden in at least two critically important ways as he prepares to battle Donald Trump in November.
Residents divided over Grand Bahama lockdown
AS more COVID-19 cases are recorded daily in Grand Bahama, residents expressed mixed feelings about whether the two-week lockdown should be extended here on the island.
23 test positive for COVID-19 at Sandilands
TWENTY-THREE people at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre have tested positive for COVID-19.
COVID-19 therapy trials 'very promising'
THE early reports of a therapy for COVID-19 patients in a clinical trial is “very promising” as a possible therapeutic option for the virus, according Director of the National HIV/AIDS & Infectious Diseases Programme at the Ministry of Health Dr Nikkiah Forbes.
Pintard: We will be cautious after employee tests positive
AGRICULTURE Minister Michael Pintard said officials will err on the side of caution after a Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources employee tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday.
Straw market vendors face uncertain future
WITH no income coming in due to COVID-19 restrictions, straw vendors say they fear they do not have sufficient food supplies and income to last for the duration of a two-week lockdown as provisions made by the government are not enough.
Several customs officers in Abaco placed under quarantine
SEVERAL customs officers in Abaco have been placed under quarantine after a worker was exposed to a COVID-19 positive patient on the island, prompting officials there to close the Customs Department at the Leonard M Thompson International Airport on Thursday.
FORMER FNM Chairman Johnley Ferguson dies, according to reports
FORMER Free National Movement Chairman Johnley Ferguson died Thursday morning, according to reports.
Game plan to avoid COVID-19 'salvage'
The Bahamas must urgently develop a COVID-19 “game plan” covering all potential scenarios to prevent its economic recovery from becoming a “salvage” operation, a chamber chief urged yesterday. Ken Hutton, the Abaco Chamber of Commerce’s president, t
FINAL NAIL IN RETAIL COFFIN: Retail Association warns lockdown may be last straw for many traders
Bahamian retailers yesterday warned that the latest COVID-19 lockdown will be "the nail in the coffin" for multiple companies and jobs in a sector that employs more than 22,000 persons.
Economist warns reserves issues 'loom' long-term
The Bahamas faces a “looming problem” over the “lifeblood” of its economy if it is unable to swiftly attract significant foreign currency inflows, an economics lecturer warned yesterday.Rupert Pinder, who lectures at the University of The Bahamas, to
AID: 'Still best time' for $8.2m projects
A major Bahamian retailer yesterday said it believes this is “still the best time to go ahead” with its $8.2m investment in new stores despite the latest national COVID-19 lockdown. Jason Watson, Automotive Industrial Distributors (AID) president, t
BTC suffers 15% revenue decline
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) was not spared by the COVID-19 pandemic, it was revealed yesterday, as the carrier suffered a near-15 percent year-over-year first half revenue fall. Liberty Latin America (LiLAC), the ultimate parent for
Man dies after shooting on Pine Yard Road
A man is dead after a shooting on Pine Yard Road on Wednesday afternoon.
Health chiefs accept suspect cases are severe challenge
AFTER several doctors and nurses at Princess Margaret Hospital walked off the job due to COVID-19 safety concerns, the Public Hospitals Authority yesterday admitted the facility has remained challenged due to the influx of suspected COVID-19 patients presenting at its A&E Department.
Pinder doubts shutdown will see job losses increase
WHILE optimistic about the current national lockdown, Director of Labour John Pinder said he doubts unemployment will increase during this period due to the extended NIB unemployment programme that is giving employers a necessary break.
If you catch the virus - don’t panic
A Grand Bahama resident who has COVID-19 but did not experience any of the severe symptoms associated with the disease, says people should not panic if they too test positive because it is not “a death sentence”.
Why does Nassau put so much faith in tourism?
Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is considering reopening around the Thanksgiving holiday in late November, according to a July 24 Tribune article.
Students urged to look at distance learning courses
THE Ministry of Education has advised students planning to study abroad this year to instead consider distance learning, local tertiary schools or enrolment deferral until 2021 amid global uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pair of businessmen launch website to track pandemic
TWO local businessmen launched a new website this week to allow Bahamians to easily track the COVID-19 pandemic through customisable graphs.
Man who is accused of home theft remanded to prison
A MAN was yesterday remanded to prison over allegations he broke into a residence to steal a video game console and its accessories.
Country’s natural resources are threatened, says pressure group
THE Bahamas Protected Areas Fund says the country’s long history of protecting its natural resources is being threatened by illegal poaching, climate change, external shocks and unfair rules governing the way overseas development assistance (ODA) and other international funding initiatives are allocated.
Son claims he had firearm so he could protect mother
A MAN who claimed he pleaded guilty to illegal firearm and ammunition possession to “protect his mother,” is expected to appear before the chief magistrate for sentencing today.
Denied bail over assault charge
A 35-year-old man who assaulted another man earlier this week was yesterday denied bail ahead of his trial.
Follow simple advice
It is interesting to reflect on the past and consider how far we have come in establishing our rights and our privileges. However, in our slow movement forward, we have left something behind. We have forgotten to emphasise our corresponding duties – the duty we owe our fellowmen when it comes to respecting their privileges.
Future ripe with opportunity
The US council on foreign Relations published and article entitled: “It Is Time to Abandon Dollar Hegemony”, on July 28, 2020.
Ayton and Suns undefeated
DEANDRE Ayton and the Phoenix Suns have been the biggest surprise of the NBA restart with an undefeated record thus far including back-to-back wins over playoff teams.
Fox, Isaacs on Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities
BAHAMIAN Baseball prospects Lucius Fox and Todd Isaacs joined Major League’s Baseball Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) programme to discuss the development of the sport in the country.
Auto parts supplier pleads website case
An auto parts supplier yesterday urged the government to permit its website to facilitate delivery and pick-up purchases as The Bahamas entered it second COVID-19 national lockdown. Dwayne Higgs, WHIM Automotive’s general manager, told Tribune Busin
Digital provider: 'We're like domestic credit card'
A digital payment provider, which facilitates the National Insurance Board’s (NIB) unemployment benefit payments, yesterday likened its system to a “domestic credit card”. Sean Smith, SunCash’s business development manager, told Tribune Business tha
$8.8m Andros bridge eyes December finish
The $8.8m Staniard Creek Bridge replacement is due to be completed by Bahamas Marine Construction by December 2020, the Ministry of Works has announced.Desmond Bannister, minister of works, said the existing concrete bridge structure was in “extremel
Company losing fight against staff lay-offs
An auto parts and hardware store yesterday warned it may lay-off some of its 25 staff members due to the restrictions imposed by the new two-week COVID-19 lockdown.Doreen Rolle, owner/operator of Rolle’s Auto, told Tribune Business: “The hardware sid
GB marine life set to land knock-out blow
Grand Bahama’s marine life will be at centre stage when boxer Mike Tyson takes on one of the ocean’s greatest predators during the launch of Discovery Channel’s Shark Week this Sunday. The channel will feature the Tyson versus Jaws: Rumble on the Re
Breezes remains open with 'handful of guests'
A major Bahamian resort yesterday confirmed it remains open despite the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown because it is hosting “a handful of guests” waiting out their 14-day quarantine requirement. Muna Issa, SuperClubs Breezes managing director, told T
Funeral director slams restrictions
A Bahamian funeral director yesterday said it “not fair” and in “poor taste” that persons cannot give their loved ones a full send-off during the latest COVID-19 lockdown. Denalee Penn, Evergreen Mortuary’s chief executive, told Tribune Business of
Training Agency aids 255 students online
The National Training Agency (NTA) says it is giving 255 students free online job training and certification to prepare them to function effectively in the workplace amid COVID-19. The students are being trained in office procedures; information tec
Wednesday, August 5
36 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Wednesday
The Bahamas recorded 36 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, 30 on New Providence and six on Grand Bahama.
Government releases lockdown emergency order
THE government released the emergency order for the current two-week lockdown on Tuesday night.
EDITORIAL: We must protect our frontline workers
TIME and again during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been reminded of the importance of the work being done by medical personnel – and the need to do our part to help protect those workers.
WORLD VIEW: Climate change is killing the Caribbean one cut after another
AMID the feverish work to cope with both the public health and economic effects of COVID-19 on their populations, Caribbean governments can be forgiven for dropping their guard against the existential dangers posed by climate change.
ALICIA WALLACE: We need to take account of all COVID’s symptoms - mental, financial and social
We’ve spent another holiday weekend on lockdown followed by one day to prepare for a two-week nationwide lockdown.
Schools will still reopen in September, says Lloyd
THE Ministry of Education still intends to reopen public schools on September 21 with virtual education first and then move on to “blended learning” to be a combination of virtual and face-to-face classrooms, according to Education Minister Jeff Lloyd.
Davis blasts the government for its 'failure
PLP leader Philip “Brave” Davis labelled the Minnis administration a failure over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying the new lockdown is “only necessary because of a series of specific mistakes” made by the government.
Turnquest: Expect big changes to family budget
FINANCE Minister Peter Turnquest said while officials expect some changes to happen in the “family budget” due to the re-imposed national shutdown, decisions have yet to be made concerning the future of public servants.
Abaco mother worried about support after her son tests positive
AN Abaco woman, whose son has COVID-19, says she is concerned about the lack of communication from health officials on the island as she and her husband have yet to be tested for the virus.
Salons fear they will not survive second lockdown
AFTER the initial COVID-19 lockdown forced them to close for three months earlier this year, some salon and barbershop owners fear they won’t be able to survive this new restrictive period.
Mountain of PPE equipment arrives from China
THE shortage of Personal Protection Equipment has been a problem for countries all over the world since the COVID-19 crisis first exploded.
'Don't kill the fly with the sledgehammer'
Bahamian businessmen yesterday warned that the two-week national lockdown could be “more devastating than COVID-19 itself”, and urged: “Don’t use a sledgehammer to kill a fly.” Ben Albury, Bahamas Bus and Truck’s general manager, told Tribune Busine
Auto dealers 'crippled' as sales drop 55.5%
Auto dealers yesterday said they were bracing for the two-week lockdown’s “crippling” effect after suffering an industry-wide 55.5 percent decline in new vehicle sales for the 2020 second quarter. Rick Lowe, the Bahamas Motor Dealers Association’s s
Foreign reserves enjoy $200m restriction boost
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday said restrictions imposed on capital outflows have boosted the external reserves by $200m to-date, as he pledged: “Losing control of the peg is not an option.”John Rolle, unveiling the regulator’s economic assess
Lockdown: 'Low hanging fruit' missed out
The Bahamian private sector was yesterday said to be in discussions with the government to address “low hanging fruit” that can aid the economy amid the latest COVID-19 lockdown.Jeffrey Beckles, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confedera
Governor: No tourism rebound fully till 2023
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday warned the tourism industry might not fully recover from COVID-19 until 2023 with the Bahamian economy now projected to contract by 15-20 percent this year.
PMH STAFF PLEA FOR PROTECTION: Doctors and nurses beg for equipment to guard against COVID
WITH the situation at Princess Margaret Hospital at “a boiling point”, doctors and nurses yesterday called on health officials to implement the “necessary protocols” to better protect workers amid safety concerns at the hospital about the COVID-19 threat.
Why close down islands with no recorded cases?
FAMILY Island restauranteurs like Dwight Hart are frustrated with the one-size-fits-all COVID-19 restrictions that will force him to shutter his business for two weeks even though Exuma only has three confirmed cases of the virus.
Passenger death sees jet divert
AN American Airlines plane from Puerto Rico landed at the Lynden Pindling International Airport on Monday night to disembark an elderly man who died. According to government officials, the diversion took place after the 84-year-old man experienced a medical event and became unresponsive. He was given medical assistance but died.
Johnson’s warning on work permits
AMID economic uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Immigration Minister Elsworth Johnson said the government will not be issuing any new work permits, except under “urgent circumstances”.
‘Full’ animal centre cries for help
THE Bahamas Humane Society is at full capacity with over 400 animals in the shelter and representatives have made an appeal for donations of food and cash.
Island tale to inspire women to follow dreams
A new novel by a Bahamian author seeks to inspire young women to always follow their dreams, regardless of the circumstances.
Wedding woes – Vendors seek dialogue with government
The wedding industry has been thrown into chaos. Many brides and grooms are distraught over cancellations and repeated postponements. The weddings that are still happening have been vastly downsized, and wedding vendors have found themselves in an indefinite limbo.
BBF withdraws from FIBA WCup Skills Challenge tryouts
Without any response to their request to stage practice to select the national teams for the under-17 boys and girls skills challenge, the Bahamas Basketball Federation had no other choice than to withdraw from the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Americas Region competition for qualification for the World Cup Skills Challenge.
Jean: ‘It’s important for us to be ready for this tournament’
WITH the country now locked down again and no venue to train on, men’s national soccer coach Nesley Jean said he’s hoping that he can still get the Bahamas Football Association’s team ready for the CONCACAF Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup QATAR 2022.
When it's time to have 'The Talk'
Talking to your kids about the birds and the bees can be embarrassing for many parents.
Family Guardian closes office after employee has COVID-19
FAMILY Guardian Insurance Company announced that their Carmichael office is closed to the public until further notice after an employee tested positive for COVID-19.
Archie Nairn, a consummate professional
I had the honour and pleasure of working with Archie Nairn, who was the Permanent Secretary of the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Legal Affairs for the first few years of my second stint as Attorney-General and Minister.
Mitchell's personal agenda does us no good
Today, I am once again left confused as to whether the opposition wants The Bahamas to win this fight against COVID or are they hell bent on playing politics with this matter?
Cleveland Clinic in pioneering uterus transplant
For the second time, the Cleveland Clinic has delivered a baby from a uterus that was transplanted from a deceased donor.
Sugar waxing is nothing to fear
SUGARING, or sugar waxing, may sound a bit intimidating, but with the right tools and an expert guide to follow, women can use home kits for this type of hair removal without worries, said Shiann Smith, a pre-med student.
Steven Gardiner closes season with a victory
As he completed what turned out to be the climax of a shortened track and field season, Bahamian quarter-miler Steven Gardiner went out with a bang at the American Track Meet in Georgia over the weekend.
DPM: No cuts to civil service eyed
The deputy prime minister yesterday said the government still has no plans to slash civil service jobs and hopes to “sustain” current staffing levels despite growing fiscal pressures from COVID-19.K Peter Turnquest, speaking to reporters outside the
Web designer sees COVID work uptick
A web design and marketing firm yesterday said its development of online applications and e-commerce platforms has generated significant growth for it amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Randia Coakley, Azulify’s creative director, told Tribune Business : “
Tuesday, August 4
36 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday that there are 36 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: The battle for our lives
HIS is the moment none of us wanted.
PETER YOUNG: A staggering own goal which could cost the BBC dearly
Having written at length last week about its lack of impartiality, I hesitate to return to the subject of the BBC today. Having written at length last week about its lack of impartiality, I hesitate to return to the subject of the BBC today. But it may be worth commenting on what could turn out to be a massive miscalculation on the part of the corporation, since many people depend on Britain’s renowned public broadcaster for reliable information as a trustworthy global news provider and they are interested in how it is faring.
FACE TO FACE: Ginny’s been peddling the recycling message for years - and it pays off
Bahamians throw away more than $1.5 million worth of aluminium cans each year – cans that could have been recycled and that could have brought money back into the country. With that amount of waste going into the landfill, being strewn across beaches, ending up in the sea and becoming litter on roadsides we have every reason to want to do something about it.
Fred Mitchell sorry Emancipation Day not marked
FORMER Fox Hill MP Fred Mitchell lamented the lack of celebrations yesterday to mark the 186th anniversary of the end of legal slavery in The Bahamas. “We continue to suffer the bitter legacy of racism and slavery these many centuries later,” Senato
Police deny McAfee gun allegations
POLICE officials have denied allegations made by Bitcoin millionaire John McAfee, who claimed he had bribed a Bahamian officer with $1,000 to secure his weapons back in 2018. In a series of tweets over the weekend, Mr McAfee alleged he attempted to
Locals left in the dark over why power had to be off for so long
BAHAMAS Power and Light has left some locals in the dark about why their power was shut off for more than 30 hours in some cases despite winds from Hurricane Isaias barely at tropical storm levels as it churned over the country. BPL said teams are o
NEMA chief grateful Isaias skirted country
THE director of the National Emergency Management Agency said Bahamians should thank God for small mercies after Hurricane Isaias skirted through the country without leaving any major damage in its wake. Captain Stephen Russell said thankfully no in
Storm caused minimal damage on Grand Bahama
GRAND Bahama fared well overall as Isaias passed near the island on Sunday downgraded as a tropical storm, causing only minimal damage and isolated flooding in some communities due to heavy rain. Power outages were reported in some areas because of
Senior exec at Albany contracts COVID-19
A SENIOR executive at the Albany resort has contracted COVID-19, The Tribune has learned. According to a well-placed Tribune source, the senior executive contracted the deadly virus from a Peruvian nanny who was taking care of his and another person
Isaias: We dodged a bullet
Cabinet ministers and private sector executives yesterday said the Bahamian economy had "dodged a bullet" after Hurricane Isaias inflicted minimal damages and loss on this nation.
GB small businesses need $15m ‘bail-out’
The government was yesterday urged to make a $15m “bail-out” fund available immediately to prevent Grand Bahama small businesses already “on their last legs from going belly up”.
Gas station dealers eye 45-50% margin growth
Petroleum dealers want “at least a 45-50 percent” margin increase if gas stations are to remain open once the COVID-19 pandemic has come to an end. Vasco Bastian, the Esso station owner at East Street and Soldier Road, told Tribune Business : “We st
Hope for 'strategic' lockdown dashed
Calls for the prime minister to avoid a “one-size fits all” national lockdown to curb COVID-19’s second wave were dashed last night after he imposed more severe restrictions than in the first shutdown.Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Go
PMH staff 'at tipping point'
LOCAL doctors and nurses are calling on health officials to implement the “necessary protocols” to better protect healthcare workers at Princess Margaret Hospital amid safety concerns about the COVID-19 threat. Their calls for more safety measures comes as the country continues to experience a surge of COVID-19 cases, with the total currently standing at 679.
ActivTrades: The eternal appeal of youth
It’s becoming increasingly common to hear that 40s is the new 30s, 50s the new 40s and so on. But is it really so? Undeniably, many of us appear younger than our parents did at the same age.
HERE WE GO AGAIN: Minimum two-week lockdown to try and halt new COVID surge
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced a strict “two-week minimum” national lockdown beginning tonight to curb the rapid spread of COVID-19, a decision he said came based on the advice of health officials.
Marines apprehend Haitian sloop
A group of 44 Haitian migrants was apprehended in the central Bahamas on Sunday morning in a joint operation between the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the US Coast Guard.
No one hurt as car flips over
A car accident at Grosvenor Close Entrance at the Princess Margaret Hospital resulted in a vehicle being overturned and badly damaged Saturday evening, according to reports. Police officials could not confirm to The Tribune yesterday whether the driv
More than 800 on Grand Bahama now in quarantine
MORE than 800 people are in quarantine on the island of Grand Bahama, which continues to lead in recorded COVID-19 cases in the country.
Another 31 cases as COVID count hits 679
COVID-19 cases in the country have skyrocketed to 679, with 31 additional cases recorded just yesterday as health officials expect cases to increase in the days ahead.
Enlightened integration
Owen Arthur, the late former Prime Minister of Barbados, wanted everyone to know that once his feet were on the soil of any Caricom country, he was home.
Don't expose others
Fifty people die, and it’s a hoax says Dr. Trump.
Ayton and Suns off to hot start, ‘buddy’ and Kings struggle
Deandre Ayton got his Phoenix Suns off to a hot start while “Buddy” Hield and the Sacramento Kings struggled early on the opening weekend of the NBA restart in Orlando, Florida.
Phenom Challenge: Bahamian 1-2 punch helps Defenders shine
THE Bahamian 1-2 punch of Deyton Albury and Garreth Edgecombe helped the Defenders 2020 to split their four games at the Phenom Challenge over the weekend in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Eagles excited to add Franco Miller Jr
THE Florida Gulf Coast Eagles are excited to add Franco Miller Jr to their programme and look forward to the incoming transfer combo guard to have an impact whenever he steps on the floor.
Aliv: 98% of towers restored post-Isaias
Aliv yesterday said “over 98 percent” of its cellular tower sites were fully operational by yesterday afternoon following Isaias’ passage, its top executive saying: “The resilience has paid off again.” Damian Blackburn told Tribune Business that jus
Food retail 'confusion' on open hour change
Food retailers yesterday criticised the “confusion” and “bad calculations” that resulted from the government’s last-minute changes to their store opening hours over the holiday weekend.Supermarket operators said the constant revisions, first allowing
Businesses closing as COVID hits workplace
Bahamian businesses were yesterday hailed for “responsible behaviour” in electing to take the “heavy blow” of shutting down for two weeks once staff members test positive for COVID-19. Jeffrey Beckles, pictured , the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and
Hardware retailers busy before Isaias
A major Bahamian hardware retailer said Friday had proven “extremely busy” as persons prepared for Hurricane Isaias landfall. Brent Burrows, CBS Bahamas (Commonwealth Building Supplies) general manager, told Tribune Business that: “The store was ext
Monday, August 3
PM announces national lockdown
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has announced a national lockdown for the entire Bahamas in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.
31 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Monday
The Ministry of Health reported on Monday that there are 31 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19.
VIDEOS: Freeport during and after Isaias
These videos show the effects of Hurricane Isaias in Freeport over the weekend.
Sunday, August 2
BPL | SKYGuard Severe Weather Warning, Sunday 2nd August
STARTS: 08/01/2020 2:00 AM EDT EXPIRES: 08/03/2020 8:00 AM EDT
49 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday
The Ministry of Health reported on Sunday that there are 49 new cases of COVID-19.
PM and NEMA team assess damage from Isaias
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) conducted an initial aerial overview to survey the damage and assess the needs of those in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Isaias on Sunday.
SKYGuard eAlert #17: Tropical Storm Isaias Currently Passing West of Freeport
Sunday, 2nd August, 2020.
Saturday, August 1
SATURDAY UPDATES: All clear for New Providence, Andros, Abaco, Eleuthera – Hurricane Warning remains for Grand Bahama, Bimini, Berry Islands and neighbouring cays
10pm: A statement from BPL on power restoration efforts – Bahamas Power and Light Company Ltd (BPL) wishes to confirm for customers that we have begun restoration efforts and have returned service to some of the feeders, but BPL continues to prioritize safety of our customers and staff as we recover from Hurricane Isaias.
25 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Saturday that there are 25 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19.
