Saturday, February 29
Woman in hospital after being shot outside nightclub
A woman is in hospital after being shot outside a nightclub early on Saturday morning.
Friday, February 28
Two charged in connection with murder on Grand Bahama
TWO Freeport men were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Friday in connection with the island’s third murder.
Coin drive aims to help Pinewood's flooding issue
RESIDENTS of Pinewood will host a coin drive Saturday to help raise funds to address the community’s chronic flooding issue.
Grand Bahama water potability '34 percent restored'
GRAND Bahama water potability has reached 34 percent towards full island restoration, according to the Grand Bahama Utility Company Ltd.
Digital classroom initiative launched for Bahamas' schools
THE Ministry of Education has officially launched a digital mobile classroom initiative for public primary schools supported by the Organization of American States.
Bodies of two women found on Long Island: Police investigating deaths as homicides
WHILE searching for a missing mother and daughter in Long Island, police on Friday made the gruesome discovery of the bodies of two women in the Salt Pond settlement and are investigating the deaths as homicides.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Is Marijuana a pot of gold?
AS we creep closer to a final decision on the legalisation and decriminalisation of marijuana in the Bahamas, and on the heels of Pastor Dave Burrows reiterating the Christian Council’s stance on the matter…
'Why buy GB airport rather than build a new one?'
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Deputy Leader Buscheme Armbrister voiced concerns about the government’s consideration over purchasing the Grand Bahama International Airport from the current owners and suggested a new airport be built instead.In Novembe
Optimism over new home for UB North
THERE is strong “optimism” concerning negotiations for a new permanent location in Freeport for the University of the Bahamas North after the loss of the $10m campus and $4.5m residence hall in East Grand Bahama due to Hurricane Dorian. Dr Ian Strac
Pintard: Beware scam artists using my name
A FRAUDULENT Instagram account claiming to belong to Marco City MP Michael Pintard has secured the personal information, including bank details, of some unsuspecting residents, Mr Pintard said yesterday.He said he told police about the problem two we
Ex-minister explores poultry farm revival
A former Cabinet minister yesterday revealed he is in the “advanced” stage of exploring whether to revive a Grand Bahama poultry operation that once produced 3m-5m pounds of chicken annually. Zhivargo Laing, who is the government’s chief World Trade
Oil drilling is 'reckless response' to debt woe
Activists yesterday blasted the government’s decision to give the environmental go-ahead for oil drilling in Bahamian waters as “a reckless and irresponsible response” to the country’s debt woes. Sam Duncombe, reEarth’s president, told Tribune Busin
Environmental nod 'huge milestone' for oil explorer
A Bahamas-based oil explorer yesterday hailed the receipt of all necessary environmental approvals from the government as “a massive milestone” towards drilling its first exploratory well.Simon Potter, pictured, the Bahamas Petroleum Company’s (BPC)
Tourism set for $325m Dorian hit through '22
The Bahamian tourism industry will lose some $325m over the three-year period required to make a “full recovery” from Hurricane Dorian, a newly-published study has revealed.A 218-page Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report, representing a full
'End insurance VAT for small business'
The government should extend the elimination of VAT from insurance premiums to small and micro-sized business following Hurricane Dorian, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is urging. The multilateral lender, in its full 220-page study of Dor
SURGERY SAVES ‘MIRACLE CHILD’: Baby survives after removal of growth larger than his head
AN 11-day-old baby is recovering after a team of physicians, led by leading neurosurgeon Dr Magnus Ekedede, successfully removed a large growth from the back of its head in a groundbreaking operation.
PM tells America his Ragged Island dream
DESPITE criticism that it has taken too long to get plans off the ground to convert Ragged Island into a sustainable “green” community following Hurricane Irma’s devastation, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis maintains the goal still “absolutely” remains, with plans to expand the effort.
Six now in coronavirus quarantine
THE number of Bahamians in quarantine for signs related to the novel coronavirus has increased to six, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands.
Medic: Fox Hill shooting victim lucky to survive
A MEDICAL expert yesterday testified how one of the survivors of the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting could have died from what he believed were “life-threatening” injuries if medical treatment had not been provided.Dr Justin Albury, taking the witness st
Honouring women leading the way
A GROUP of Bahamian women were honoured as female political “firsts” at a ceremony at St Joseph’s Church Hall on Monday. Minister of Social Services Frankie Campbell, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Lanisha Rolle, and Patricia Minnis, wife of
Minister Felicia Archer: ‘Ten years in ministry is only the start’
Minister Felicia Archer’s journey has not been an easy one, but it has surely been a rewarding one. And this evening she is set to celebrate 10 years in ministry with a special event at the Remnant Tabernacle of Praise.
Roker, Gibson rewarded for outstanding seasons
A PAIR of Bahamian student athletes were rewarded for their outstanding regular seasons when the Atlantic University Sport announced its annual awards ahead of this weekend’s conference championships.
BOC: ‘We will continue to plan for the Olympics’
AMIDST concerns about the coronavirus, the Bahamas Olympic Committee has announced that they will continue their preparation for Team Bahamas to compete in the 2020 Olympic Games, scheduled for July 24 to August 9 in Tokyo, Japan.
CH Reeves Raptors are GSSSA track and field champions
The CH Reeves Raptors, completing a dominant performance in winning three of the four 4 x 400 metre relays yesterday at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium, collected their 25th Government Secondary Schools Sports Association track and field championship title.
THE PRESS BOOK: DeMarcus Cousins will continue to ‘boogie’ in Los Angeles
DEMARCUS Cousins may have been waived by the Los Angeles Lakers but their relationship is not entirely done.
New book keeps it simple laying out the steps to salvation
THE message of the gospel, though profound, is simple: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16)”.
Meditation: Forgiving and loving enemies
Matthew 5:43-44 leaves no doubt in our mind the position that Jesus Christ holds on the subject: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy. But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
$1m benefit from tax concessions Over-the-Hill
RESIDENTS and businesses in economic empowerment zones of New Providence have accessed about $1m in tax concessions since the programme was launched in 2018, an official said yesterday.
Justice programme site to go live tomorrow
THE Citizen Security and Justice Programme is preparing to launch its website on Saturday. The website, csjpbahamas.gov.bs, is an information site dedicated to keeping the public up-to-date with the project’s goals and progress. The website will ho
DIANE PHILLIPS: The finest line of all – the last breath
AN old friend died this week. His death was not the saddest part of the story, the end of his life was.
Offer hope, not blame
When a government finds that it does not have the answers to the myriad problems facing a society it is not unusual for it to engage in lashing out at the most vulnerable.
Corporal discipline in schools
At present The Bahamas is not prepared to ban corporal punishment in schools even though many of the developed countries of the world have outlawed physical discipline in private and public schools. This builds a compelling case for all jurisdictions to abolish corporal punishment.
Coping with loss
Life can be overwhelming at times and we have all experienced moments of pain, loss, suffering, heartbreak. misfortune, etc. at some point. In such moments our faith might be challenged but this is precisely the time to look to God and seek His strength and guidance. We can find comfort in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (KJV) which tells us “we are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”
Religious happenings around town
Saturday • YOU – Life, Love, and the Theology of the Body
Open Windows Part II – Abiding faith
Of late, I have been considering the idea that a topic like “Open Windows” may lead some to believe that life is all good. If not for the reader, then for the writer at least. Amazingly, I have had readers attack this whole “Open Window” ideal while facing obstacles of all kinds. Some have suggested I can barely relate to the real struggles of life. Another person following me challenged me with a list of experiences and dared me to exceed the trauma outlined in her text.
Digitise human resources to drive better efficiencies
Improving productivity and efficiency is critical for companies of all sizes in 2020 and beyond. And human resources information systems (HRIS) are helping them achieve this goal consistently. Acquiring HRIS software not only automates these tasks bu
Thursday, February 27
Mother and daughter missing in Long Island
POLICE are actively searching in Long Island for 62-year-old Jane Harding and her daughter Melissa Hui, 34.
Owner of pit bulls that attacked woman is released
THE owner of the dogs that attacked a woman in Pinewood Gardens last week has been released from custody, officials have said.
STATESIDE: Democrats disarray playing straight into Trump’s hands - and they’ve done it before
Just when it looked like things couldn’t get any worse for the Democrats playing bumper cars in an increasingly futile food fight to oppose President Donald Trump in November, things got quite a bit worse.
EDITORIAL: Weigh all sides in the marijuana debate
THE Christian Council is starting to outline its position in the debate on the legalisation of marijuana – and while their report won’t be made public until next month, the head of the committee preparing that report hinted yesterday at opposition to making the drug legal.
BPL: March date for bill increase may change
BAHAMAS Power and Light’s March implementation for the National Utility Investment Bond fee is “subject to change”, according to the power provider’s head of communications Quincy Parker yesterday. BPL had planned to introduce the fee on customers’
Don't link us with Nygard, says STB
SAVE the Bays has again defended itself from claims tying it to a US class action lawsuit accusing Peter Nygard of raping ten women. The lawsuit, filed on February 13 in New York, alleges Mr Nygard raped women, paid them hush money and helped cover-
Electronic retailers fear impact of virus could be devastating
LOCAL electronic retail companies say they fear the global novel coronavirus outbreak will have a devastating impact on their companies in the long-term. In an effort to manage the spread of the deadly virus, Chinese authorities last month mandated
We need $1m to deal with coronavirus, says Sands
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands has revealed the Ministry of Health has requested a million dollars to combat the novel coronavirus. The United States is starting to increase its funding for virus preparedness. American media reported the Trump admin
Royal Caribbean's PI land deals revealed
Royal Caribbean’s Bahamian attorney this week confirmed it has acquired multiple real estate parcels on Paradise Island’s western end, but declined to specify whether it is also seeking crown land. Campbell Cleare, partner at McKinney, Bancroft and
Bahamas investor gives oil explorer $36m war chest
A Bahamas-based investor was yesterday said to have added “another brick in the wall” to a local oil explorer’s financing strategy by taking the funding available for its first well to $36m. Simon Potter, Bahamas Petroleum Company’s (BPC) chief exec
Fears coronavirus to cost $2m home deal
A Bahamian company yesterday said it fears losing a $2m modular housing opportunity in this nation due to the coronavirus impacting its Chinese partners and supply chains. Latrae Rahming, Bahamaren’s managing director, told Tribune Business: “I thin
Ex-AG slams 'absurdity' of financial crime listing
An ex-attorney general has slammed the “absurdity” of the criteria that will determine whether The Bahamas should be removed from an anti-financial crime monitoring list. Alfred Sears, pictured , said the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) asserti
KEEP IT ILLEGAL: Christian Council key official rejects opening door to legal cannabis
A leading Christian Council official advising the body on its position on marijuana has come out against legalising the recreational use of the drug.
‘Bahamians first policy just a play for votes’
A GRAND Bahama union official believes the ‘Bahamian-first’ mantra is just a political card pulled out around election season by both major political parties. “I have a concern with ministers and politicians speaking these things when it comes close to election time,” Dave Barr, president of the Grand Bahama Workers Union said this week.
Police probe into gun-toting officer
AN investigation has been launched after a police officer was caught on video displaying aggressive conduct to several residents on Abaco, officials said.
NIB worker sacked after payout audit
AN internal investigation is underway at the National Insurance Board after an employee was terminated for allegedly wrongly signing contribution forms and accepting “tips” for tasks he was not authorised to do, The Tribune was told yesterday.
20 years for man haunted by decision to go back and kill
A man was sentenced to two decades in prison yesterday for killing a man because the deceased threatened him and accused him of seeing his girlfriend three years ago. Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson sentenced Christopher McQueen to 20 years and two mo
Two thieves steal man's watch and cash
TWO thieves stole a man’s watch and cash on Tuesday morning, police said. Police were told that shortly before 6am, a man was standing near a vehicle on Taylor Street, Nassau Village, when he was approached by two men, one armed with a gun. He was r
'I tried to evade a hail of bullets but was shot twice'
A MAN told a court yesterday how he tried to evade a hail of bullets only to be shot twice during the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting.Leroy Taylor said he first thought the gunfire was the sound of firecrackers, and only realised the sounds were bullets
PAHO links up with experts for mental health forum
THE Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) partnered with the Ministry of Health, the Bahamas Psychological Association (BPA) and the Healthy Bahamas Coalition (HBC) to host a media forum on mental health. The forum was held on Monday at the Univer
This airport is just a bad joke
As legendary tennis star John McEnroe said more than once to an umpire “you cannot be serious”.
Stop the cruise ships coming
Perhaps with the very real threat of the corona virus spreading we should start now cutting back on the cruise ships entering the Bahamas.
Don't lose another generation
I wrote concerning the Marijuana Committee and mentioned in my letter which you published that recent surveys, for or against legalising indicated 70% seventy were against legalising.
DNA evidence helps overturn rape conviction
DEFICIENCIES in the DNA evidence against a man previously convicted of raping a woman at gunpoint after burglarising her West Bay Street home led to his conviction being overturned, the Court of Appeal has said. The appellate court said the reason w
Chef Jose and his team thanked for making 3.2m meals for Dorian victims
THE Ministry of Tourism used the international stage of the recent Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival to say thank you to Chef José Andrés.
Raptors take early lead
The 27th Annual GSSSA Track and Field Championships got underway yesterday and continued its format with both junior schools and senior schools competing simultaneously.
NPBA All-Star Game and Fun Night tomorrow
THE New Providence Basketball Association will showcase its top talent when the league hosts its All-Star Game and Fun Night.
Shelton Williams invited to CFL Eastern Regional Combine
SHELTON Williams will have the opportunity to compete against the top football players in Canada as they get set to showcase their skills in the hopes of eventually earning a spot on a Canadian Football League roster.
Antoan Richardson making impact with Giants, Lucius Fox shows his versatility
ANTOAN Richardson is already having an impact in the Giants clubhouse while Lucius Fox has shown his versatility at a new position in Major League Baseball Spring Training.
GB resort rewards its best employees
A Grand Bahama resort honoured several of its 60 employees during the bi-annual Pelican Awards Ceremony.Della Bridgewater, Pelican Bay’s operations manager, said: “2019 was a particularly challenging year for us because of Hurricane Dorian, but our e
NHI chief 'puzzled' by insurers' stance
The National Health Insurance Authority’s (NHIA) chairman yesterday said he is “puzzled” by the insurance industry’s call for the scheme to set out a “long-term framework” and strategic plan. Dr Robin Roberts told Tribune Business this had already b
The best way to handle your debt
The warning in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, “neither a borrower nor a lender be”, was aimed at keeping money and friendship at arm’s distance. Once you eliminate close friends from the equation, borrowing can be a powerful tool. The real questions are: How
Wednesday, February 26
EDITORIAL: Work permits by the numbers
THERE has been a lot of noise lately over work permits – and the prospect of denying permits to businesses if they don’t have an understudy being trained. Well, listen carefully, here comes the sound of the backtrack.
ALICIA WALLACE: It’s only $100 but its significance means so much
The recent kerfuffle about $100 is almost laughable.
Dames defends decision to move senior officers
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday defended the government’s decision to reassign several senior officers to various ministries. He said it was a necessary move to help address security issues experienced at those respective ministrie
Lewis: 34 domes will be ready in Abaco by Friday
MINISTER of State Disaster Preparedness Iram Lewis said at least 34 domes will be ready at the family relief centre in Abaco this Friday. “There was an issue with the utility connections, they are in place so it’s just a matter now of putting in the
Union angry with UB plan to sack painters
THE Bahamas Public Services Union is up in arms about perceived plans by the University of the Bahamas to make painters redundant. The maintenance workers have a combined 78 years of service at the University of the Bahamas (UB). According to BPSU
Closing down Straw Market was critical, insists Bannister
MINISTER of Works Desmond Bannister yesterday lashed out at Straw Market vendors for criticising the ministry’s decision to close the Bay Street site and calling it “a ploy to get rid of workers.” Noting the statements to be completely false, Mr Ban
I agree with PM's stance on 'illegals', says Johnson
IMMIGRATION Minister Elsworth Johnson said he supports the prime minister’s position on illegal migration, stating yesterday that the issue has put a strain on local schools and health facilities. Mr Johnson spoke a day after Prime Minister Dr Huber
We’re all God’s children, Minnis tells supporters
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said a Progressive Liberal Party official who made derogatory comments about dark-skinned people is “a disgrace.”
'Holding the bag' on 50% sales fall
A Bahamian plastics product supplier yesterday said pleas for government assistance have not been answered as it prepares to terminate more staff following a 50 percent sales slump. Louise Munroe, owner of Plastic Property Ltd, told Tribune Business
DPM: New GB Power charge is 'unavoidable'
The deputy prime minister yesterday described Grand Bahama Power Company’s (GBPC) new Dorian recovery levy as “unavoidable” if electricity supply is to be restored to the entire island. Arguing that this “comes at a cost”, K Peter Turnquest, said: “
Activists blast GB Power's storm levy 'total disregard'
Activists yesterday blasted the addition of a Dorian restoration charge to all Grand Bahama residents’ electricity bills as showing “complete disregard and great insensitivity” for the island’s plight.Pastor Eddie Victor, president of the Coalition o
Bran: Bahamian 'work ethic is bad'
A former Immigration minister yesterday argued that many Bahamians simply fail to take advantage of available employment opportunities because “their work ethic is bad”.Branville McCartney, the ex-Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) leader, told Tri
Labour specialist: to discuss 'good understudy ideas'
The Chamber of Commerce’s top workforce specialist yesterday said he plans to discuss “some good ideas” for solving the government’s understudy issues when he meets its labour chief next month. Peter Goudie told Tribune Business he wanted to create
Confront police - you’re going to lose
A DAY after police shot and killed a suspected armed robber, National Security Minister Marvin Dames said that, while the incident was unfortunate, criminals will lose when they confront police.
‘Prisoners must be treated humanely’
PRISON officers beating inmates is “unacceptable” and “intolerable,” Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security Eugene Poitier said yesterday.
Virus: Four passengers placed in quarantine
FOUR Bahamians are currently in quarantine after travelling on a Canadian flight with a passenger that tested positive for the novel coronavirus, also referred to as COVID-19.
Pinder: We could cut 20,000 work permits
THE government’s push to tackle unemployment and crack down on immigration issues must factor in scrutiny of work permit approvals, Department of Labour Director John Pinder said yesterday.
FBI AGENTS RAID NYGARD’S US HQ: Task Force strikes after five-month probe into sex trafficking claims
US federal agents raided offices of Peter Nygard’s fashion company yesterday amid a sex-trafficking investigation into the wealthy fashion mogul.
Cartwright the one bright spot for FNM
Over the last few years, Bahamians have been watching the steady decline, and I daresay implosion of the FNM. The movers and shakers of the party are already scrambling for an immediate successor but the party is short on talent save for a few.
Mullings wins pole vault, Clarke victorious in high jump
THE University of The Bahamas’ multi-event specialist Ken Mullings won the pole vault and Benjamin Clarke won the high jump at the Embry Riddle First Chance Last Chance Meet this weekend.The team also turned in four second-place performances to open
We need a commission into alleged corruption
I would fully support a Commission of Inquiry into the allegations of political corruption against Peter Nygard in The Bahamas. In the past, commissions were launched in response to negative international publicity and allegations that ran the risk of affecting the reputation of The Bahamas, and the same thing is happening again now.
Sir Michael sworn in at Court of Appeal
FORMER Chief Justice Sir Michael Barnett was sworn in as president of the Court of Appeal during a brief ceremony at Government House yesterday. Government officials, family and friends watched as the former minister of legal affairs accepted his ap
Sunland Stingers are the Hugh Campbell champions
Rolantae Knowles not only helped Sunland Baptist Academy take the prestigious Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic senior boys’ title to Grand Bahama, but he ended up being one of 12 players selected to the All-Tournament team. Knowles, one of the senio
Dynasty Tip-Off Classic: Rattlers win silver title, Falcons runners-up
COACHES Kevin Clarke and Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson said they both had no regrets their Tabernacle Baptist Falcons and CI Gibson Rattlers skipped this year’s Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic to participate in the Dynasty Tip-Off Classic. Over the weekend in
Southwest Tennis Club members take advantage of tournament
THE Southwest Tennis Club out of the Flamingo Gardens Park participated in the Bahama Pure Water and Ice Tennis Tournament at the YMCA facilities in Grand Bahama over the weekend. Shari Clarke and Marlee Martin teamed up to win the under-14 girls’ d
Leevan Sands Sr dies
THE Tribune Sports Department extends condolences to the family of the late Leevan Sands Sr. Sands Sr, a native of Eleuthera and a former police officer, died yesterday. He was recovering from a mild heart attack. He is survived by his wife Elaine,
BISX listing 'major part' of mutual fund offering
A Bahamas-based fund administrator, which has sponsored 45 percent of the funds listed on this nation’s stock exchange, says being able to provide this is “a key component of our offering”. Ivan Hooper, The Winterbotham Trust Company’s chief executi
Insurers in call for 'long-term' NHI framework
Private sector insurers yesterday urged the government to set out “a long-term framework” for a National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme that has had little impact on their business to-date. Sandy Morley, the Bahamas Insurance Association’s (BIA) depu
Realtor hails end to sector's 'private club-like atmosphere'
A ten-time Bahamas Realty top performer has praised the firm’s former chairman for driving a solution that broke up “the private club-like atmosphere” in the industry to the benefit of all.Stuart Halbert, who has attained that honour ten times in the
Security firm chief calls for increased vigilance
A private security company’s chief executive is urging residents to increase their vigilance and minimise risk following a recent surge in break-ins impacting gated communities across Nassau.Elston Bain, a 16-year Royal Bahamas Police Force veteran,
Jobless benefits sought by 2,600 Dorian victims
The government’s top labour official yesterday said 2,600 persons have claimed unemployment benefits due to Hurricane Dorian but that number has tapered off since year-end. John Pinder, pictured , director of labour, speaking to Tribune Business aft
Tuesday, February 25
EDITORIAL: Immigration sense or election trail rhetoric?
IMMIGRATION was in the Prime Minister’s sights yesterday – though his target was not always clear.
FACE TO FACE: Our own Dr King ready to shake the political throne
It takes a lot of guts to start your own political movement. Many people have complaints about the system of government.
Renovation of Grand Bahama justice centre is complete
THE multi-million dollar renovation at the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre is complete with significant construction, security, and technology upgrades, and the addition of a third Supreme Court in Grand Bahama. Minister of State for Grand Bahama Kwa
We can get jobless figures down to 6%, insists Minnis
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis insisted that six percent unemployment by next year is achievable, adding officials planned to do this by expanding the tourism sector alone. This expansion, however, will not feature building more hotels, Dr Minnis t
We won't spend money unwisely, says Minnis
AFTER facing backlash over the government's decision to increase travel benefits for Cabinet ministers and their spouses, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said tax dollars will not be spent irresponsibly. Speaking at Parliament, Dr Minnis said the go
Nygard's alleged victims will have their day in court, says Smith
ATTORNEY Fred Smith declared yesterday that Peter Nygard’s alleged sexual assault victims “will have their day in court."
Man, 32, jailed for robbing John Bull on Paradise Island
A 32-year-old man was sentenced to almost five years in prison yesterday for robbing a jewellery store on Paradise Island of over half a million dollars worth of high-end watches last week.
Working age 'plateau' to hit growth, credit rating
Moody’s has warned that a working age population due to “plateau” by the mid-2020s will limit The Bahamas’ economic growth potential and “weigh” down its sovereign credit rating. The international credit rating agency, in its just-released latest up
GB Power: New customer charge 'not an easy sell'
Grand Bahama Power Company’s top executive yesterday admitted it is “not an easy sell” to add an extra charge to all customer bills to pay for $15m in Hurricane Dorian restoration costs.Dave McGregor, the utility’s chief executive, defended the Storm
PM: 20% hotel vacancy cut to hit jobless goal
The prime minister yesterday argued his six percent unemployment rate goal can be achieved by increasing average occupancy rates at existing Bahamian hotels by 20 percentage points. Dr Hubert Minnis, telling the House of Assembly that his ambitious
Funeral home chief hits back in Dorian row
A funeral home director has denied an industry association’s assertion that the government paid her business a near-six figure sum to collect the bodies of Dorian victims, branding this “misleading”. Denalee Penn-Mackey, chief executive of Evergreen
BPL must ‘do everything in its power’ to prevent 2019 repeat
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) was last night urged by the Chamber of Commerce’s top executive to “do everything in its power” to solve its cooling woe and avoid a repeat of summer 2019’s blackouts.
PM orders creation of ‘illegals’ strike force
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has instructed Immigration Minister Elsworth Johnson to form a “strike force” targeted at aggressively pursuing undocumented migrants throughout the country.
'Thieves using plastic bags ban to shoplift’
SUPER VALUE president Rupert Roberts yesterday defended the food store chain’s new packing policy, stating the rule was introduced to safeguard against theft which has increased since the government’s ban on single-use plastics.
LIFE LINES: Tolerance is a double-edged sword
We are all fallible as human beings and learning to be tolerant of some differences in character or actions is necessary for harmonious living.
Understanding physical activity
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
New facilities concentrate on healthcare for the whole person
In taking the “whole person” approach to healthcare management, the Family Medicine Centre is officially opening its new expanded facilities which will bring many new medical services on board.
A spotlight on the “silent sight thief”
Glaucoma is one of leading causes of blindness and visual impairment. For this reason the ophthalmology division of the Princess Margaret Hospital will be raising awareness of the sight-stealing disease in the coming weeks.
Three charged with copper theft at BTC
THREE men have been charged in the Freeport Magistrates’ Court in connection with copper theft at the Bahamas Telecommunication Company in Grand Bahama.
Dancing the pain away
With every turn, twirl and movement they make this Friday, a group of young dancers will pay tribute to and tell the stories of those who have suffered abuse in their lives.
Pair deny failing to report child abuse
TWO people yesterday denied allegations allegations they failed to report suspected child abuse. Daryl Rolle and Kime Rolle both denied claims they did not report suspected child abuse when arraigned before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans. Giv
Sister denies she knows the Fox Hill shooters
A woman yesterday denied a defence attorney’s assertions that she knows who the perpetrator of the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting really is but is afraid to call his name because of his notoriety as a member of a “dope gang” in the community.Euphemia Da
Two charged with separate murders
TWO men were charged in a magistrate’s court yesterday over allegations they are behind two of the country’s most recent murders. Javardo Adderley and Berlin Belfort, were charged before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt in connection with two
Unwanted invasion
Re: Observation of illegal immigrants agitating for Ownership/Bahamian people’s Crown land.
2nd annual STARS College Soccer Showcase features over 100 of top student athletes
THE Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s Student-Athlete Resources and Support (STARS) programme and the Bahamas Football Association hosted their second annual STARS College Soccer Showcase featuring over 100 of the top student athletes o
Much cheaper options
As someone with an electrical engineering background, I found the description of the problems and goings on with the new power generators unbelievable and almost risible if not for all the money being wasted.
Time to end licence chaos
Having just licensed three vehicles this week, I suddenly realized why there has been such an outcry about people driving uninsured vehicles.
Stingers take Hugh Campbell title back to Grand Bahama
The Sunland Stingers were the most dominant team throughout the 38th Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic and the programme claimed their first tournament title in school history.
A HPV guide for men in the Bahamas
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most widespread sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most men do not know that HPV can potentially be a cancer causing infection. Nearly 35 thousand men and women are diagnosed every year in the United States with HPV related cancers.
World Karate Martial Arts clinic helps promote sport
IN an effort to promote the sport of karate and increase the performances of the local karate, sensei Msrus Rolle hosted a World Karate Martial Arts Organisation clinic at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium on Monday. Chief instructor Yasuyoshi
GBTA Junior National Tourney rocks YMCA in Freeport
THE Grand Bahama Tennis Association (GBTA) Junior National Tournament was held at the YMCA in Freeport, Grand Bahama, this weekend.
Bowling playoffs: J.S. Johnson advance to semi-finals
AFTER one night of bowling playoffs last week Thursday at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Centre, underdog J.S. Johnson has defeated the No.1 seed and pennant winners GSIM in a clean three-game sweep to advance to the semi-finals. Scotia wo
First annual Harbour Island junior tennis tournament
THE first annual Harbour Island junior tennis tournament was held this weekend.
Bahamian STEM girls lead the way at United Nations meeting
When it comes to educating and believing in girls, the world has made many positive strides in recent years. However, there are still some who think that the traditional STEM disciplines – science, technology, engineering and mathematics – are better suited to boys.
Robber shot dead in sting operation
POLICE shot and killed one suspect and wounded another after one of the men opened fire on officers who foiled an armed robbery at a Mackey Street bank yesterday morning.
Bahamas 'devoted' to highest tax standards
A Cabinet minister told a Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) hosted workshop that this nation is “devoted to meeting the highest international standards of tax cooperation and tax transparency”. Elsworth Johnson, minister of financial services,
Chamber chiefs happy with economic zones
Chamber of Commerce presidents yesterday said the post-Dorian Special Economic Recovery Zone (SERZ) initiative is going smoothly in both Abaco and Grand Bahama. Ken Hutton, head of the Abaco Chamber of Commerce, told Tribune Business: “Things are de
PM hits out on failed succession planning
The prime minister yesterday hit out at expatriate work permit holders who failed to train Bahamians to replace them, yet remained in this nation for years, for taking jobs away from locals. Closing debate on the mid-year budget in the House of Asse
'Mix-ups' to blame for Abaco port goods loss
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday called for better organisation at the island’s shipping port, adding that “mix-ups” rather than “higher levels of theft” are responsible for goods losses. Ken Hutton, pictured , speaking to Tribune Bus
Monday, February 24
EDITORIAL: Last chance saloon for BPL
“THERE will be an end to load shedding,” declared Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) chairman Dr Donovan Moxey in December as the new Wartsila engines were unveiled. How many of us believed him?
WORLD VIEW: Guyana-Venezuela and international law
GLOBAL attention on Guyana has focused on the current campaigning for general elections due on March 2. Reports indicate a vigorous campaign with the country’s newly found resources in oil and gas very much on the minds of the contesting political parties.
Shootings and stabbings leave four men in hospital
FOUR men are in hospital after separate shooting and stabbing incidents, police said.
INSIGHT: A long road to travel on which we need to tread carefully
NEARLY six months after Hurricane Dorian and we are still in a sobering transition period. Two islands – one on the brink of rediscovering its magic and the other comfortably thriving and contributing healthily to the Bahamian economy – both tied together by one storm’s singularly unmatched devastation.
60 Cuban teachers to cover shortages
THE Ministry of Education will engage 60 specialist teachers from Cuba to address a local teacher shortage, officials said on Friday. Ministry officials signed an extension to an existing memorandum of understanding with the Cuban government, which
INSIGHT: When Nygard stomped his feet over broken promises
I’m sure there’s many out there who feel like shouting Good Riddance to Peter Nygard now that he faces allegations of drugging and raping dozens of women, many under age.
Police probe series of armed robberies and home invasion
POLICE in New Providence are actively searching for the men responsible for a series of armed robberies and a home invasion that occurred over the weekend.
BPL race to fix new plant issue: Minister orders firm it must resolve cooling problem with engines
Bahamas Power & Light is racing against time to have its new $95m electricity plant ready to meet peak summer demand after plans for its cooling system literally hit the rocks.
Funeral home row on Dorian burials
A minister has denied that the Government reneged “on its word” to allow a funeral home association to bury Hurricane Dorian’s unidentified victims on Abaco.The Bahamas Funeral Directors Association (BFDA), in a February 19, 2020, letter said it was
Gaming Board’s redundancy fail ‘mind boggling’ - judge
A Supreme Court judge has slammed the Gaming Board’s failure to follow “clearly set out” employment law procedures when it dismissed 24 staff as “mind boggling”.
AG hails ‘a new day’ on financial regulation
The Bahamas is targeting a June “exit” from a list of 18 nations with “strategic deficiencies” in their anti-financial crime defenses, the attorney general said yesterday, hailing “a new day” in regulation.
UPDATED: Officer killed in 4am East Bay Street car crash
POLICE in New Providence are investigating a traffic fatality that left an immigration officer dead and a woman in hospital early Saturday morning.
Grand Bahama sees its third murder of year
GRAND Bahama recorded its third murder of the year when a young man was shot dead early yesterday morning in Freeport.
‘I used Dorian donations where they were needed’
EMBATTLED HeadKnowles Foundation co-founder Lia Head-Rigby maintained she committed no impropriety after crowdfunding giant GoFundMe told The Tribune she withdrew, but did not transfer,
Weather solution ‘answer to our prayers’
It’s happy faces all round for these senior officials at Bahamas Met Office.
Cobras vs Stingers for Hugh Campbell title
THE much anticipated Grand Bahama versus New Providence matchup will continue with former champions CC Sweeting Cobras taking on Sunland Baptist Stingers for the 38th Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic’s prestigious championship trophy 9pm tonight at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.
Jazz makes Spring Training debut
JAZZ Chisholm made his Spring Training debut with the Miami Marlins 40-man roster and showed flashes of why he is listed as one of the franchise’s most highly touted prospects.Chisholm went 2-2 at the plate with a run scored and a stolen base in the
Bahamas beat Mexico, 76-59
In a complete turnaround from game one, the Bahamas men’s national basketball team protected home court and emerged with a dominant win over Mexico in game two in the first window of FIBA AmeriCup Qualifiers.The Bahamas allowed just eight points in t
NCAA Swimming: Higgs and Thompson making waves
NCAA Swimming moved into its conference championships at the Division I level last weekend and several Bahamian student athletes were active with top 10 finishes and several school records.At the SEC Championships in Auburn, Alabama, Albury Higgs and
Deandre Ayton, Devin Booker dominate, Suns top Bulls 112-104
DEANDRE Ayton played an inspired second half and posted impressive numbers to lead the Phoenix Suns to their second largest comeback win of the season. Ayton finished with 28 points, 19 rebounds and three blocks in the Suns’ 112-104 win over the Chi
Scratching back time
Fake News Network (FNN) political operatives in this country lie more than fish drink water.
Delight for Abaco taxi drivers as they are given some new cars
TEN Abaco taxi drivers will now have a chance to restart their livelihood on the storm-damaged island after being presented with new vehicles from an international nonprofit organisation. One of them is Vernon Russell. Having been a taxi driver on
Achieving social justice
We cannot effectively commemorate World Social Justice Day – which was held on February 20 – without reflecting thoughtfully about setbacks and progresses made by poor countries in tackling social injustices.
Allow us to pay in cash
Please permit me to comment on the disclosure by the Minister of Transport & Local Government during his mid-year budget contribution on the initiative by the Road Traffic Department to move to a cashless operation.
Swim meet: Alpha Aquatics win their annual Invitational
THE Alpha Aquatics Swim Club won their annual invitational swim meet held at the Betty Kelly Kenning swim complex over the weekend. At the end of the two-day meet held on Friday and Saturday, Alpha posted the highest scores of 513 points in the wome
Winners of Valentine Individual Time Trials take spotlight
THE New Providence Cycling Association kicked off its 2020 season yesterday with its Valentine Individual Time Trials at Clifton Pier. The winners in the various categories include the following: Junior boys 11-15 years (two laps or 12 miles) 1.
Boxing: Amron Sands stays undefeated
BAHAMIAN heavyweight Amron Sands remains undefeated and improved to 11-0 (nine KOs) following his latest bout. After eight rounds, Sands won via unanimous decision over Cristian Galvez on February 20 at Club Deportivo Calero in Santo Domingo, The Do
'I just want to thank coach for having trust in me'
DOMINICK Bridgewater made the transition from a junior national team standout to a breakout performer on the senior national team.Bridgewater came off the bench to lead The Bahamas to a 76-59 win over Mexico and credited the home crowd as the motivat
Building materials still 'go missing' on Abaco
Building suppliers said port security remains a major concern in Abaco as reconstruction efforts start to ramp up because materials are still “going missing”.Chris Lleida, Premier Importers’ chief executive, said demand for the company’s construction
What impact will coronavirus have on financial markets?
The novel coronavirus first appeared in Wuhan sometime in December and, at the time of writing (February 19), there are over 70 million people infected worldwide, resulting in more than 2000 fatalities. The emergence of the disease triggered an unpre
Land surveyors query PM over Crown Land
Private sector executives have challenged the Prime Minister’s assertion that a shortage of land surveyors is impeding the Government’s ability to issue Crown Land grants to Bahamians. Dave Taylor, secretary of the Bahamas Association of Land Surveyo
Saturday, February 22
Woman in hospital after attack by pitbulls
A woman is in hospital after she was attacked by three pitbulls in Pinewood Gardens on Friday afternoon.
Friday, February 21
Bahamas Diabetic Association's funding decreases
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands says he would be concerned about Bahamas Diabetic Association’s funding but had not received any intervention or request made by the association.
Lloyd welcomes Asst Commissioner to ministry
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd said Friday he welcomes Assistant Commissioner of Police Leamond Deleveaux’s special assignment to his ministry where there are a “wide spectrum” of security responsibilities.
Man arrested after gun, ammunition found
A MAN was arrested Thursday when police discovered a .9mm pistol with nine rounds of ammunition in a vehicle he was in.
Law enforcement and health officials in victim identification workshop
OVER two dozen local law enforcement and health officials were trained in victim identification techniques during a three-day training workshop led by the United Kingdom’s Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Unit Specialists.
Teens charged with robbing 90-year-old
TWO Bahamian teenagers were remanded to prison Friday after they were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court for allegedly robbing a 90-year-old man of $500.
Straw vendors criticise Bannister over closure for repairs
VENDORS Friday criticised Works Minister Desmond Bannister and the Straw Market Authority (SMA) for their decision to close the Bay Street Straw Market for repairs during one of their busiest sale seasons.
EDITORIAL: Speaker should learn when to speak
The current Speaker of the House, Halson Moultrie, came to his post without the benefit of experience of Parliament.
DIANE PHILLIPS: The culture of power is changing before our very eyes
Through the six decades that I have been writing thousands of published news articles, magazine pieces, more lately columns, I have steered clear of politics and have rarely tapped the overflowing well of famous people whose legacy descends into a downhill slide from grace.
Coral reefs around Grand Bahama and Abaco quick to recover
MARINE scientists say most of the coral reefs around Grand Bahama and Abaco could rapidly recover to support fisheries and tourism sectors for those islands, with new research showing only 30 percent of reefs surveyed suffered severe damage.Researche
Final chance for woman to appeal murder conviction
A WOMAN who was convicted of conspiring to have her friend killed has been granted one last chance to overturn her 35-year sentence for the crime. The Court of Appeal granted Caryn Moss leave to petition the London-based Privy Council in a bid to ha
PM defends increase in travel budget
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday defended the government’s decision to increase its travel benefits for Cabinet ministers and their spouses.He insisted that records would show that officials’ spouses have not been taking advantage of the ben
Agreement close on border protection
THE government is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on border protection with Turks and Caicos “very soon”, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis revealed yesterday. The issue of border control, according to Dr Minnis, was among the many topi
1,400 have signed up for repairs plan, says Clarke
DISASTER Reconstruction Authority chairman John Michael Clarke announced that, as of Tuesday, more than 1,400 people have signed up to the Small Homes Repairs Programme.The chairman gave the update yesterday while explaining the authority’s role and
Minnis: Lawsuit won’t affect flow of money
DAYS after HeadKnowles Foundation sued its co-founder Lia Head-Rigby, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he is not concerned about the lawsuit affecting future donations to the country.
QC’s account closures cost Scotiabank $10k
A Bahamian QC has won $10,000 in damages from Scotiabank (Bahamas) after it abruptly closed his law firm’s bank accounts without giving any warning.
Dutch demand 9% corporate taxation to escape blacklist
The Netherlands yesterday demanded that The Bahamas implement a corporate income tax at 9 percent or higher as the price to escape tax non-cooperation “blacklist”.
OECD tax demands may 'devastate the economy'
The Bahamas “may devastate the economy” if it surrenders too easily to demands from high-tax European nations for a corporate income tax, a former finance minister warned yesterday. James Smith, who held the post during the first Christie administra
Two insurance sites eyed for Health ministry
The Government is in “very advanced negotiations” to move the Ministry of Health into two former insurance buildings in the Palmdale area, a Cabinet minister confirmed yesterday. Dr Duane Sands, minister of health, told Tribune Business that the for
Customs cracks down on Abaco aircraft 'abuses'
Bahamas Customs yesterday said it was cracking down on potential “abuses” by private aircraft in response to concerns that it has grounded Abaco’s only air freight provider post-Dorian.The agency, in a statement issued yesterday, did not say Abaco Fr
GoThankYou: Online platform pays $200k to cover ‘lost’ Dorian donations
CROWDFUNDING giant GoFundMe will donate more than $200,000 to the HeadKnowles Foundation, signalling its support for Gina Knowles as she tries to recover funds from charity co-founder Lia Head-Rigby.
‘That’s not your job, Mr Speaker’
AS AN “impartial arbiter,” House Speaker Halson Moultrie should not be calling for action or legislation on any matter regardless of his convictions, attorney Wayne Munroe insisted yesterday.
Haitian man facing year in jail for passport fraud
A HAITIAN man was sentenced to a year in prison yesterday for trying to fraudulently obtain Bahamian citizenship by using a fake Haitian passport. Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans sentenced 29-year-old Jamesly Fils-Aime, who had assumed the iden
Second man charged with $200,000 armed raid on photo studio
A SECOND man was remanded to prison yesterday charged with holding up at gunpoint the proprietor of a photo studio on Carmichael Road and robbing him of over $200,000 last week. Andino Cunningham, 44, of Pinewood Gardens was charged before Chief Mag
Doneisha Anderson named SEC Women’s Runner of the Week
UNIVERSITY of Florida Gators female track and field sophomore Doneisha Anderson has been named this week’s SEC Women’s Runner of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday.
Bahamas Drug Council Fun Run/Walk March 7 at Arawak Cay Heritage Site
THE Caribbean Bottling Company is proud to support the upcoming Bahamas Drug Council’s Fun, Run/Walk. CBC will keep the walkers, runners and joggers hydrated with Dasani water.
Bahamas lose to Mexico in FIBA AmeriCup qualifier
The Bahamas men’s national team got out-matched in their first meeting and will need all the help they can get when they host Mexico in their FIBA AmeriCup 2021 Qualifier in the ballroom of the Atlantis resort, Paradise Island, on Sunday.
The dangers of supressing news
In the 1970s and 1980s I watched our Bahamas change. Drugs came here in large amounts. Young men were dealing it and making plenty, plenty money. Young men just barely out of their teenage years were driving luxury cars and living in mansions. The fast life came to The Bahamas.
Bail is denied as man faces murder charge
A Haitian-Bahamian man was charged in Magistrates Court yesterday with murdering another man last weekend.
I saw blood oozing from man's ear, says woman whose two brothers were killed
A WOMAN yesterday described how she had to seek professional help to get over seeing blood oozing out of a man’s ears “like water” moments after his body was sprayed with bullets during the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting.Euphemia Davis said she had to u
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS FORCE LOADSHEDDING
MECHANICAL problems at its Clifton Power Station forced Bahamas Power and Light to load shed yesterday morning. A notice posted to BPL’s Facebook page said the load shedding began at 9.10am, affecting portions of New Providence. BPL later said an eng
Flood waters had nowhere to go
I hear the comment of Minister Lewis who we must not forget is a qualified architect, but in 245 years of the history of hurricanes hitting The Bahamas only one in seven years is there a hit…35 in 245 years!
Teams eliminated on day 4 of Hugh Campbell Classic
IT was mass elimination day on day four of the 38th Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic as the tournament field continues to dwindle ahead of this weekend’s pool championships.
Maginley and Roberts set sights on doubles title
JUSTIN Roberts may have been eliminated in singles, but he’s hoping that he and his partner Herbert Jody Maginley from Antigua can secure a men’s doubles title before they leave Mexico this weekend after playing on the ITF World Tennis Tour Circuit.
Kai Jones posts career highs
IN his second game back following an ankle injury sustained earlier this month, Kai Jones set several career highs to help the Texas Longhorns snap a three-game losing streak.
Physical education teachers take up crash course in golf
PHYSICAL education teachers from the government secondary high schools spent a portion of their mid-term break in class over the past two days as they participated in a crash course in golf at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s Driving Range.
Pinewood Archery Club gets rave reviews
REUBEN Rahming, Member of Parliament for Pinewood, decided to broaden the horizon of the residents of his constituency by inviting the Bahamas Archery Federation to introduce the sport of archery through the formation of the Pinewood Archery Club.
A comeback for church choirs
The 21st century has seen the slow death of church choirs not only in The Bahamas but around the world.
Religious happenings around town
Friday • St Barnabas’ 2020 Annual General Meeting
MEDITATION: Brought up short
Sometimes we are jolted into the realisation that the way we have been living is just not good enough and we are ready to make a change. What does one do when the old way will not suffice?
Girl Guides learn biblical principles
Under the theme “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion”, members of the Exuma Girl Guides Association recently gathered at the Ebenezer Union Baptist Church at Farmer’s Hill for a prayer, praise and worship.
Death, the great equaliser
The death of Kobe Bryant has for all intents and purposes been dominating the news and social media over the past couple of weeks. The superstar basketball player died in a horrific helicopter crash, along with his daughter and seven others in Calabasas, California.
Why God is real
I have experienced and observed the awesome power of God at work in difficult and challenging circumstances, both in my life and the lives of others. Consequently, my relationship with our Heavenly Father is sacrosanct and steadfast. James 1:17 (KJV) tells us “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” Believers in Christ understand that our God is real, He is tried and tested, and we have learnt to rely upon His grace, mercy and faithfulness.
Arawak port targets 10-20% profits rise
The Nassau Container Port’s operator yesterday said its 2020 profits could beat the prior year by as much as 10-20 percent following a stronger-than-anticipated first half. Dion Bethell, Arawak Port Development Company’s (APD) president and chief fi
$100m investment to regain Shipyard's competitiveness
The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday voiced optimism that the planned $100m investment in the Grand Bahama Shipyard will maintain its competitiveness. Speaking after Carnival Cruise Line, a 40 percent shareholder in the Shipyar
Thursday, February 20
EDITORIAL: Are we prepared for the next hurricane season?
As much as we have talked about the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, we must now turn our minds to a new hurricane season.
STATESIDE: Is Trump about to lose another loyalist who just can’t take any more?
The latest public spat between US President Trump and one of his key cabinet members has involved a superficially unlikely but perhaps predictable cabinet secretary.
Sister pleads for help to find missing brother
RELATIVES of a man who has been missing for over three weeks are pleading for people to come forward with information to assist police with their investigation. Gladstone “GG” McAlpine, 59, was last seen on January 28 at Cowpen and Blue Hill Roads.
EU decision proves our finance industry is solid, says Turnquest
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest said yesterday that the removal of The Bahamas from the European Union’s tax watch-list proves that the country’s financial services industry is solid and managed by a “sound regulatory regime.” Mr Turnquest mad
Miller dismisses FNM mid-year budget as 'woefully deficient'
THE Minnis administration’s mid-year budget is “woefully deficient”, charged Golden Isles MP Vaughn Miller, insisting government did not do enough to show it was prepared for the impending 2020 hurricane season.Speaking in the House of Assembly yeste
Police investigating Nygard sexual misconduct claims
POLICE are still investigating allegations of sexual misconduct against Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard, a top official said yesterday. However, an investigation into allegations that Mr Nygard bribed law enforcement officials to facilitate his
BTC suffers further 4% mobile subscriber drop
THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) suffered a further 4 percent mobile subscriber erosion in the 2019 fourth quarter, it was revealed last night, while struggling to penetrate other market segments. Liberty Latin America (LiLAC), the Baham
Customs grounds sole Abaco freight provider
FEARS were mounting last night that Bahamas Customs’ decision to ban Abaco’s sole aviation freight provider from flying to the island will further setback the island’s post-Dorian recovery. Furious Abaco residents told Tribune Business that blocking
GB electricity demand drops 13% post-Dorian
GRAND Bahama’s electricity demand has declined by 13 percent post-Dorian, it was revealed yesterday, with the island’s sole utility provider suffering a $13m Canadian dollar earnings hit. Emera, the Canadian utility giant that owns 100 percent of Gr
Last shelters stay open ‘til June
OFFICIALS hope to have completely deactivated shelters for victims of deadly storm Dorian before the start of the 2020 hurricane season, according to Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell yesterday.
400k Dorian funds lawsuit
GINA Knowles, a co-founder of the HeadKnowles Foundation, has sued her former partner Lia Head-Rigby and her husband, accusing them of using GoFundMe funds for personal use while violating a mandate to send all the donations to The Bahamas.
‘Officer beat my son in prison’
A MAN on remand for marijuana possession was beaten so badly by a prison officer that his leg required surgery, his mother alleged yesterday.
Saunders - Miller doesn’t scare me
TALL Pines MP Donald Saunders said yesterday his record alone will thwart off any challenge by former area MP Leslie Miller.
Pair charged with illegal firearm possession
TWO young men were charged with illegal firearm and ammunition possession in the Freeport Magistrates’ Court yesterday. Keiano Bethel, 20, of Independence Drive, Heritage Subdivision, and Geovano Oliver, 21, of Sandilands Circle, Yoeman’s Wood, appe
Philippines makes $100k donation for Dorian
IN an effort to assist residents in The Bahamas following Hurricane Dorian, the Philippines government has donated nearly $100,000 to further the recovery efforts on the storm impacted islands. The donation, totalling $97,643.62, was given to govern
Bail for principal accused of indecent assault
THE principal of a Christian school has been granted bail ahead of his trial over allegations he indecently assaulted one of his former female students last month. Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt granted Thomas Whitfield Nottage $3,500 bail w
Jamaican accused of murdering Jamal Russell
A 19-year-old Jamaican was charged with murder in Freeport yesterday. Damaine Donovan Sterling, of Cherry Corner, Poineer’s Loop, appeared before Magistrate Rengin Johnson in Court Three. He was represented by K Brian Hanna. A group of people stood
Focus on port and ship security
IN an effort to ensure that the country remains compliant with international security standards for ports and shipping facilities, the Ministry of Transport and Local Government yesterday hosted its first International Ship and Port Facility Security
A Christian education
While technological innovation has its place in the overall transformation, growth and development of education in The Bahamas, the teaching of Christian values in our schools ought to continue to play a pivotal role in nation building. If we want productive, responsible and spiritual citizens, then spiritual values taught from a Christian perspective is crucial.
STARS College Soccer Showcase starts today
THE top student athletes in the country on the soccer pitch are preparing for an opportunity to showcase their skills and achieve higher education through the game.The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s Student-Athlete Resources and Supp
Junior sailors take advantage of the 7th annual Youth Olympic Regatta
THE seventh annual Bahamas Youth Olympic Regatta was held by Nassau Yacht Club and Bahamas National Sailing School February 15-16 in Montagu Bay. The regatta is one of five major junior events held each year in the Bahamas and attracts sailors from
Rutherford gets congressional recognition
THE Bahamas’ first track and field Olympic medallist continues to be recognised both for his historic accomplishment in athletics and youth development.Frank Rutherford was presented with a certificate of congressional recognition by Peter Olson (R),
Reservists like my father deserve better treatment
My father is a Reservist with many years of service. He had performed duties in the Royal Bahamas Police Reserve, he is one of those officers that can be called upon at any time. Without hesitating or complaining and stop whatever it is he is doing to go to that appointed station or function.
A history of corruption
Let’s look back to the earliest times of when The Bahamas was discovered by Columbus…on behalf of the Spanish many of the original tribes of the Bahamas were taken as slaves to Mexico and other parts.
Hugh Campbell Day 3: Marlins, Eagles, Stingrays, T’Wolves win
Day three of the 38th Hugh Campbell Invitational featured the debut of defending champions, the first appearance for Family Island teams and also the first elimination of this year’s event.
'Healing Games' theme of Geneva Rutherford Basketball Classic
SEVERAL of the top junior and senior girls’ basketball programmes in the island nation will head to Grand Bahama this weekend for the division’s longest standing tournament. The Helping Our Youth Through Education and Sports (HOYTES) hosts the 21st
Another historic milestone for Equestrian Bahamas
EQUESTRIAN Bahamas recorded another historic milestone for the programme and Bahamian sport with their success at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association International Invitational.Peyton Wong, Elle O’Brien, Mila Sands, Maya Tilberg and Nicholas A
Sasha Wells named Summit League Track Athlete of Week for third time this season
SASHA Wells continues to dominate the indoor season of Summit League Track and Field and was recognised once again by the conference for an outstanding performance. Wells was named the Summit League Female Track Athlete of the Week for the third tim
Murdered man was due to be married
A MAN died in hospital shortly after he was shot outside an apartment in the Wilson Track area Tuesday night, police said.
Gov't will invest $50m in Out Island upgrades
THE Government plans to invest more than $50m on Family Island infrastructure projects over the next two years, a Cabinet minister said yesterday. Desmond Bannister, minister of works, told the House of Assembly: “In North Eleuthera we have recently
Association provides health insurance access solution
An Association has moved to solve the health insurance affordability and accessibility challenges faced by many Bahamian businesses and individuals. The Western New Providence Association (WNPA) said the January 23, 2020, launch of its group health
Bahamian ports face full security exercise
Bahamian ports will face a full security drill later this year, the country’s international standards compliance head said yesterday.Senior Lieutenant Bertram Bowleg, of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), told a seminar on adherence to the Inter
Wednesday, February 19
Mitchell: We're seeing hundreds of interested PLP candidates
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Senator Fred Mitchell says the party is seeing interest from hundreds of people seeking to be potential candidates in Grand Bahama and New Providence. While in Grand Bahama Monday night, Mr Mitchell said at a Marco
Court ruling on 24 jobs delights former Gaming Board workers
A SUPREME Court ruling ordering the reinstatement of 24 workers from the Gaming Board has excited people like Meresha Walkes, a 46-year-old woman who was forced to find a new home and create a different lifestyle when she was fired from the board in
Victim was 'nice, quiet young boy'
A NEIGHBOUR of the man who was shot dead on Monday night is taken aback by his murder, describing the victim as a quiet and down-to-earth person. Kevin Storr, believed to be in his early twenties, was killed near his home on Toote Shop Corner off Ea
EDITORIAL: We must concentrate on the victims, not the politics
TODAY’S developments in the allegations against Canadian businessman Peter Nygard make shocking reading.
'Carnival double deal will help recovery efforts'
DAYS after Carnival Corporation announced it will double its investment at the Grand Bahama cruise port, Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest said yesterday the move will aid the recovery efforts on the storm-impacted island. “We’re certainly looking
At last! 11 years for Ericka's killer
AFTER a 14-year delay, a 54-year-old man was finally sentenced to prison yesterday for stabbing his common-law wife to death in front of her mother and children over a decade ago.Justice Renea McKay sentenced Leo Roderick Johnson to 11 years behind b
6,000 volunteers to help rebuild Abaco
OVER the next two years over 6,000 volunteers will use their own work holidays to help Abaco residents rebuild and recover from Hurricane Dorian. This is according to Jess Thompson, a member of the All Hands and Hearts (AHAH) Bahamas Dart Team. He a
Dames: DNA identification of storm victims 'well underway'
DNA identification for storm victims who died during Hurricane Dorian is well underway, according to National Security Minister Marvin Dames.Mr Dames confirmed that officials are “moving ahead” with victim identification yesterday during a press conf
ALICIA WALLACE: Whispered secrets which tell a much deeper story
Everyone is talking now, just as they were before, but with voices that are a little louder. It almost seems as though there is less fear. Memories are being jogged as stories are spilling and judgments are being made. People are finally saying, in spaces where more people can hear them, that they knew at least a part of what was allegedly happening behind the walls at Peter Nygard’s Lyford Cay home.
EU sorted: Now for France and Holland
The deputy prime minister is “very confident” The Bahamas will resolve its blacklisting by individual European Union (EU) members after it yesterday completed its escape from the bloc’s tax watch-list.K Peter Turnquest told Tribune Business that this
WTO advocate argues Bahamas to never join
A prominent World Trade Organisation (WTO) advocate yesterday said he doubts The Bahamas will ever join, adding: “You can lead a horse to water but can’t make it drink”.Carey Leonard, the former Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) in-house attorney, t
Bahamas must 'totally embrace' physical regime
A former attorney general yesterday said The Bahamas “must absolutely embrace” its new regulatory regime to attract fresh investment, jobs and companies to this jurisdiction. John Delaney, pictured , now principal of the Delaney Partners law firm, t
NHI's extra $10m 'no cost overrun'
Top National Health Insurance (NHI) executives yesterday said extra government funding was required to cover the five percent monthly increase in beneficiaries, and did not represent a “cost overrun”.Dr Robin Roberts, the National Health Insurance Au
Insurer suffers $220m in Hurricane Dorian claims
JS Johnson’s underwriting affiliate suffered just a $105,787 net loss for 2020 despite incurring more than $220m in insurance claims, it was revealed yesterday.The BISX-listed broker and agent, unveiling its results for the full-year and fourth quart
Suspects held for string of recent home invasions
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday confirmed the Royal Bahamas Police Force has arrested people in relation to a spate of recent armed robberies and home invasions in the capital.
Miller - I’ll win easily in Tall Pines
FORMER PLP Member of Parliament Leslie Miller says he’s certain he can win the Tall Pines constituency by at least 500 votes in the 2022 general election.
Nygard: ‘Dozens more victims’ – Lawyers reveal over 100 women have come forward to accuse him
DOZENS of women have come forward to accuse Peter Nygard of sexual misconduct since lawyers in New York filed a class action lawsuit against the fashion mogul, according to a lawyer in the case.
NHIA launches electronic healthcare record system
THE NATIONAL Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is going paperless as the agency launched its Electronic Health Record (EHR) system for primary healthcare providers yesterday. The EHR system eliminates the need for paper patient health records and ac
Lawyer tells court her car was used at Fox Hill shootings
A TAX lawyer testified yesterday how her car was stolen while she was at work and was allegedly used by suspects to execute the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting.Erica Culmer-Curry said her charcoal grey Honda was stolen out of her employer’s parking lot j
This silence is deafening
Years have passed since the late Dr. B. J. Nottage, former Minister of National Security, committed himself to legislation his government would introduce, that he called “Marco’s Law”.
Police need our support
Can you imagine going to work each day and not being sure you’ll survive your shift and see your family again?
Teams shuffle on Classic day 2
With a last minute adjustment to the schedule and the brackets, things are starting to take shape in the 36th annual Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic.
Coach ‘KJ’ and Rattlers off to Orlando for Tip-Off Classic
WITH a greater emphasis on exposing his players to the potential basketball scholarships, coach Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson has decided to skip the prestigious Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic and will be going to Orlando, Florida, to participate in the Tip-off Classic (Super Regional) instead.
FIBA qualifier: Bahamas will have 10 players against Mexico
THE men’s national basketball team will only have the service of 10 players for their FIBA AmeriCup 2021 qualifier against Mexico on Thursday night.
Superior Care to the rescue
WHEN it comes to sports, safety is paramount for local clubs, associations and federations as they seek to provide the necessary medical care for their athletes, coaches and officials.
NHI: 'Struggle' to get data protection here
The National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme yesterday said its newly-launched electronic health record (EHR) system will achieve the “highest standards” of data protection by being hosted offshore.Graham Whitmarsh, pictured, NHI’s managing director an
'Prioritise growth over living cost reductions'
A former Cabinet minister says The Bahamas must prioritise economic growth over cost of living reductions. Zhivargo Laing, pictured , former minister of state for finance under the last Ingraham administration, told Tribune Business: “Let’s be clear
Buyer demand rising as post-Dorian prices halve
Buyer demand for Abaco homes is increasing with properties selling at about 50 percent of their pre-Dorian value, a Hope Town-based realtor. Jane Patterson, a Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty estate agent, said: “Most of the buyers I have bee
Tuesday, February 18
How do you heal a broken heart?
MOST of us have sadly experienced the intense emotional pain that comes with having one’s heart broken – be it due to a romantic relationship ending, a loved one dying, or one’s hopes and dreams failing.
EDITORIAL: Marsh Harbour relocation a model for all our futures
Should Marsh Harbour be moved inland?
Gibson hits back at Davis over 'child' jibe
Long Island MP Adrian Gibson hit back yesterday at Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis for referring to him as a child. As he joined striking members of the Bahamas Utilities Services and Allied Workers Union (BUSAWU) outside WSC headquarters las
Murphy: No glass found in prison meals
BAHAMAS Department of Correctional Services Commissioner Charles Murphy said “there is no truth” about claims of small pieces of broken glass being found in inmates’ food. “What I’ve learned (is) that there’s nothing, no fact to that statement,” Com
PETER YOUNG: 30 years on, we remember Mandela’s walk to freedom
A free man at last. Nelson Mandela was released from prison in South Africa 30 years ago.
24 fired from Gaming Board to get jobs back, court rules
A SUPREME Court judge has ordered that 24 people fired from the Gaming Board in 2017 be reinstated and/or damages paid to them, according to lawyer Wayne Munroe. Justice Indra Charles’ ruling is among the first to challenge parts of the Minnis admini
Sands: We need to take a close look at the funeral industry
THE country’s unregulated funeral industry has presented some “‘pretty scary” situations that now requires attention to prevent calamity, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday.Recognising the challenges this presents, Dr Sands said th
Nursing homes may be used to ease burden on PMH
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said officials are looking at various nursing homes to provide alternative accommodations for boarders at Princess Margaret Hospital. Not only does the situation create a burden on public finances, but it has exacerbat
'We're working to provide temporary housing in Abaco'
CHAIRMAN of the Disaster Reconstruction Authority John-Michael Clarke said yesterday the authority will be working with the Department of Social Services to determine a solution to provide “temporary” housing in Abaco for displaced shelter victims li
Fatal stabbing came after an argument with friend
FRIENDS of the man who was fatally stabbed in an argument off East Street early Sunday morning said he will be dearly missed. According to police reports, shortly after 2am on Sunday, the body of a man was discovered on Ross Corner with what appeare
FACE TO FACE: What happened next to Sweet Emily, the Queen of Junkanoo
She was the biggest female name in Bahamian music. Her songs are still played, sung and loved to this day.
'North of $120m' offer for Out Island airports
The government’s aviation chief yesterday said he has received a Bahamian-generated offer to provide the “north of $120m” financing needed to kickstart overhauls of the major Family Island airports. Algernon Cargill, director of aviation, told Tribu
Ex-FNM minister: 6% unemployment rate 'improbable'
The prime minister’s pledge that the unemployment rate will be slashed to a 21st-century low of six percent within 18 months was yesterday branded “highly improbable” by an ex-FNM Cabinet minister. Zhivargo Laing, former minister of state for financ
Bahamian airline defeats GB airport's $372k claim
Grand Bahama Airport Company’s demand that a prominent Bahamian airline pay it $371,353 in “outstanding airport fees” has been rejected by the Supreme Court.Senior justice Estelle Gray-Evans ruled that the Grand Bahama International Airport operator
Minister: No WTO membership 'for at least five years'
A Cabinet minister yesterday said full Bahamian membership of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) “cannot happen for at least within the next five years”.Elsworth Johnson, minister of financial services, trade and industry and immigration, told the Ho
Fidelity's loan portfolio 'better than pre-Dorian'
A BISX-listed bank’s loan book has performed “better post-Dorian” than before the storm, a top executive revealed last night, adding that it has set an initial $26m profit target for full-year 2020.Gowon Bowe, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) chief financial
Mother tells court: ‘Oh Lord - I got shot’
A retired woman yesterday described the moment she was shot in the chest and leg from a hail of bullets while waiting for Junkanoo results at Freedom Park during the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting.
China virus: No more in quarantine
ALL those who were under quarantine amid fears of the spread of the deadly coronavirus have been released, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday.
Is it time to move Marsh Harbour?
STATE Minister for Disaster Reconstruction Iram Lewis said a discussion “must be had” with landowners in Marsh Harbour, Abaco about possibly rebuilding the town centre more inland in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian.
‘Why would anyone want to kill Jamal?’
THE family of Jamal Russell, whose body was found stuffed in a plastic storage bin at his home, is clueless as to why someone would kill the deaf man who “never bothered anyone”.
Man charged with holding up photo studio at gunpoint
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday charged with holding up at gunpoint the proprietor of a photo studio on Carmichael Road and robbing him of over $200,000 last week. George Bennet Delva Sr, 44, of Blair Estates, was charged before Chief Magistr
Follow the British example
House of Assembly – just how open to speech is the House when an opposing side MP can interrupt constantly through a presentation? Compare that to the mother of parliaments, this never occurs.
Commission not impressed by BDC's performance appraisals
THE Public Service Commission was “not impressed” by recent Bahamas Department of Corrections’ performance appraisals, according to a national security official who advised department heads not to let their feelings sway the process. Eugene Poitier,
A love for light skin
Last week, during the PLP’s rally, Patricia Deveaux introduced Senator the Hon Dr Michael Darville with specific language.
It's good to see a paper that is standing up for the underdog
THE Tribune is The Bahamas’ most courageous newspaper.
Hugh Campbell Classic tips off
Still celebrating their Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools Sports’ senior boys basketball championship victory, the Queen’s College Comets got off to a sluggish start, but poured it on down the stretch against Galilee College in one
Jared Fitzgerald helps the Spartans win title
SEVERAL Bahamian swimmers were in competition for their respective programmes as several conferences hosted their championship meets at various levels of the NCAA. Jared Fitzgerald had an active meet for the University of Tampa Spartans and helped l
Wilson honoured in final home game with Tigers
JORDAN Wilson was honoured in his final home game with the Dalhousie Tigers men’s basketball programme and proceeded to earn the award as the top performer on the night. Wilson finished with 14 points and six rebounds in the Tigers’ 105-73 win over
UB women's judo team win two gold, silver
THE University of The Bahamas’ women’s judo team picked up two gold medals and a silver at the Cherry Blossom Open judo competition this weekend.Breanna Grant won a gold medal (70 kilogram division) and a silver medal (78 kilogram division) and Raven
Cherif, 14, invited to Future Stars
JUST about every day, more and more Bahamian players are getting the exposure to either play college or get introduced to the professional ranks of baseball.One of the latest to receive such an offer is 14-year-old Cherif Neymour, who was invited to
'Play Tennis' programme looking for beginners
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) continued with its developmental “Play Tennis” programme aimed at beginners between the ages of five and 17. Over the weekend appoximately 40 kids were on hand to benefit from this free programme hosted at
Jimmy Norius ends up 4th overall in Brazil
AFTER being an International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) professional in 2018, Jimmy Norius had to slowly work his way on the international stage to compete. Over the weekend, he participated in just his second pro show at the Angel
Doing it for the culture
She’s a project accountant by day, a ceramist in her spare time, and a mother to three kids all of the time. One might think Gina Smith’s agenda is full to the brim, but then one would be mistaken, as this superwoman has yet another role to play – that of business owner.
Kerima overcomes tragedy to win top graduate award
Now that Kerima Smith has completed her Master of Science degree in Management Studies with distinction from the University of the West Indies (Open Campus Bahamas) and snagged the top graduate award, she is more fervent about higher learning than ever.
The under-eye struggle is real
At some point in your life you will be looking in the mirror and asking, what is going on with my eyes?
Cryotherapy: A curative treatment option for prostate cancer
Cryotherapy is also referred to as cryoablation or cryosurgery, that uses freezing gas to destroy prostate cancer cells, while leaving the prostate gland intact. The term cryotherapy is misleading as it is not a form of surgery. Cryotherapy was US Food and Drug Administration approved for prostate cancer treatment in the year 2000. It has been used in the past 20 years as an effective, minimally invasive management option for prostate cancer.
Do I have to take supplements?
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Bike-a-thon supports special needs kids displaced by Dorian
Over 200 children, parents and a host of sponsors came out recently to support special needs children displaced by the September 2019 Hurricane Dorian.
Going natural
Paul and Denise Worrell’s journey towards all things natural started right in their kitchen. After starting their own family, the couple decided to go back to their roots when it came to putting food on the table for their kids.
Donation of blood pressure monitor goes a long way
It is now easier than ever before for geriatric patients to check their blood pressure quickly and conveniently.
‘Super Bowl of fitness’ returns to the Bahamas
THE World Beauty Fitness & Fashion (WBFF) pageant returns for a second year with what organisers are promising will be a “bigger and spectacular” show.
BOB profits decline $1m on 141% credit loss rise
A 141 percent increase in loan loss provisions due to Hurricane Dorian and new accounting treatments have been blamed for cutting Bank of The Bahamas’ first-half profits by more than $1m. The BISX-listed institution, unveiling its results for the si
Nassau/PI resorts enjoy 24% increase in 'mice'
The Nassau/Paradise Island resort industry last year enjoyed a “24 percent increase” in its meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) business, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told
Critical Marsh Harbour assets eyed for move
The government needs the co-operation of private property owners and other stakeholders to move Marsh Harbour’s town centre further inland, a Cabinet minister said yesterday. Iram Lewis, minister of state for disaster preparedness, management and re
Bahamas must 'rethink' all planning in Dorian's wake
The Bahamas must “rethink” every aspect of its infrastructure and planning regulations following Hurricane Dorian’s devastating $3.4bn impact, a government minister said yesterday. Iram Lewis, minister of state for disaster preparedness, management
Boating show to donate $110k to Ranfurly Home
All proceeds from an upcoming yacht, boating and marina showcase will be donated to the construction of a transitional home on the grounds of the Ranfurly Homes for Children. The Bahamas Charter Show, which will be held from February 27 to March 1,
Monday, February 17
Man shot dead off East Street
Police are investigating after a man was shot dead off East Street on Monday night
EDITORIAL: Find answers - not offer distractions
IMAGINE if you will that a serious allegation is made. Two sides look at the allegation, one nods soberly and says yes, we’d better investigate. The other side says that’s crazy and look over there, that other thing over there is what we really need to investigate.
We've been forgotten, say the Queen's Cove residents
QUEEN’S Cove is “a forgotten community” that is still in shambles five months after Hurricane Dorian.The subdivision is vulnerable as incidents of stealing are a continuing problem for the few returning residents who are trying to rebuild.According t
Bannister praises The Mudd clean-up
CARIBBEAN Pavement Solutions has completed its clean-up of The Mudd shanty town in Abaco, transforming an area that was a labyrinth of structures later decimated by Hurricane Dorian. Works Minister Desmond Bannister said he toured the site on Friday
WSC staff told to go back to work
STAFF at the Water and Sewerage Corporation have been ordered to return to work until the country’s top judge rules on whether union members have a right to strike. Dwayne Woods, president of the Bahamas Utilities and Allied Workers Union (BUSAWU),
INSIGHT: There are clouds on the horizon - but is it going to rain?
Donald Trump is many things. Modest and unassuming are not two of them.
INSIGHT: Minnis must have other secret deals lined up if he’s to pull this one off
LAST week’s announcement of deals in Abaco and Grand Bahama by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis may have provided residents there hope after the devastation of Hurricane Dorian.
WORLD VIEW: Hypocrisy unmasked as OAS stands at crossroads
IF candidates were to get a prize for making the best case for why they are best suited to be Secretary-General of the OAS, María Fernanda Espinosa would have easily walked away with it when the three contenders for the post appeared before the Permanent Council of the Organization on February 12.
Michell urges PLP to treat reports with ‘several grains of salt’
THE Progressive Liberal Party has urged supporters to treat a report connecting allegations about Peter Nygard to the party with “several grains of salt”.
Armed robbers hold up jewellery store on Paradise Island
POLICE are searching for the suspects who held up and robbed a jewellery store on Paradise Island of a number of Rolex watches over the weekend.
Magic man David Copperfield in fight over $2m property tax bill
A world-famous magician/illusionist has defeated the Government's bid to obtain a summary judgment in their $2m-plus real property tax dispute involving his private Exuma resort destination.
Get 'house in order' for aircraft registry
The Bahamas will be unable to fulfill its aircraft registry ambitions unless it “gets its house in order” on the industry’s civil aviation regulatory regime, a Cabinet minister has admitted.Dionisio D’Aguilar, pictured, minister of tourism and aviati
‘Flamboyant’ dresser’s casket costs funeral manager $34,000
A funeral home manager, whose photo of the casket for one of Nassau’s most “flamboyant” dressers went “viral on social media”, has lost her $14,472 claim for wrongful dismissal.
Cable chief places 'undivided attention' on customer service
Cable Bahamas top executive says customer service and content quality will have his “undivided attention” for the next one-two years following completion of the firm’s $301.5m US exit.Franklyn Butler, pictured, the BISX-listed communications provider
UPDATED: Dead body found in rubbish bin
GRAND Bahama police made a gruesome discovery on Friday when the body of a missing man was discovered stuffed inside a bin at a home in the Lewis Yard area. The discovery was made shortly after 6pm on Friday.
Dames: We have obligation to investigate Nygard claims
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said police will investigate claims that Peter Nygard concealed his alleged sexual crimes by bribing local law enforcement officials, saying the country’s reputation is at risk.
PM congratulates Buddy
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, on behalf of the Government of The Bahamas and the Bahamian people, extends congratulations to Bahamian NBA shooting guard Buddy Hield on his 2020 NBA 3-Point Contest win. Hield, a native of Eight Mile Rock, Grand Ba
The real war on crime
I thank the Lord Jesus Christ that He, obviously, protected Sir Arthur Foulkes, our beloved senior statesman and former Governor General, and his wife, Lady Joan, from bodily harm or worse during a recent invasion at their home. One shudders at the very thought of what could have happened to them both.
Rape conviction dismissed after STD tests are different
THE Court of Appeal has freed a man previously convicted of raping an underage girl primarily because she tested positive for a sexually transmitted disease while he did not. The appellate court quashed Rukeithso Richardson’s 14-year sentence for hav
Don't just blame Mrs Deveaux for having her views
PLP National vice-chairman Patricia Deveaux’s racist remarks — for which she later had to apologise — brought back many childhood memories.
All quiet on Oban
Have you noticed the OPM-FNM is not talking about that OBAN deal whilst Freeport is so desperately looking for employment and investment? Strange I hope not as the AG should be looking at prosecutions and Ministerial resignations but you know how we go.
‘Buddy Marvellous’: Hield wins NBA All-Star 3-Point contest
Buddy Hield needed a nearly perfect final round to become the NBA’s new three-point champion and the Grand Bahama native did just that to highlight his appearance at the league’s All-Star Weekend.
GSSSA basketball champions crowned
THE GSSSA basketball championships produced four programmes successful in their bids to repeat in each of the respective divisions as the league concluded its season over the weekend at Loyola Hall. In the league’s finale, the Doris Johnson Mystic M
Open Water Swim Meet was a splash
THE Mako Aquatics Club hosted its Open Water Swim Meet on Saturday to give swimmers an opportunity to qualify for the team that will be a part of the Bahamas Swimming Federation’s team heading to the CARIFTA Swimming Championships in Wildey, Barbados
Anthaya leads the way at the University of Kentucky invite
SPRINTER/hurdler Anthaya Charlton led the way for a number of Bahamians from the Star Trackers and Red-Line Athletics track clubs as they competed at the University of Kentucky High School Invite over the weekend in Lexington, Kentucky.Charlton, now
Doneisha Anderson victorious in the 400m
IN her greatest performance so far for the University of Florida, sophomore Doneisha Anderson surged to the front of the women’s 400 metre final with an NCAA-leading time and a lifetime best to head a list of Bahamians competing at the Tiger Paw Invi
Athletes qualify for the CARIFTA games
BRANDON Hutchinson, celebrating his 16th birthday a day early, led four other competitors in achieving the qualifying standards for the 2020 CARIFTA Games at the Roadrunners Track Club’s 14th annual Dianna Lynn Track Classic at the Thomas A Robinson
Roberts ousted
JUSTIN Roberts’ great run in the Pro Circuit M15 in Cancun, Mexico, ended yesterday in the semi-finals against Maximiliano Estevez 2-6, 3-6.The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association congratulates Justin on his semi-final appearance. Roberts will be partici
36th Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic gets underway today at AF Adderley
THE 36th Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic is all set to get underway today at the AF Adderley Gymnasium, featuring 24 teams in four pools. Over 40 games over the course of the week will lead to the championship finale on Monday, February 24 to decid
Water Corp unions sent back to work
The chief justice has ordered members of both Water and Sewerage Corporation unions to return to work until there is a full Supreme Court hearing on their industrial dispute next Monday.Brian Moree QC granted a temporary injunction on Friday that eff
Investors buy up 35% of oil explorer's fund
A Bahamas-based oil explorer says it achieved its targets after local investors purchased 35 percent of the available shares in the investment fund it created.Simon Potter, the Bahamas Petroleum Company’s (BPC) chief executive, said in a statement th
Bahamas company near end on Mudd clean-up
A Bahamian company says it has substantially completed post-Dorian clean-up of the 40.9 acre location that was previously home to The Mudd shanty town community. Caribbean Pavement Solutions’ (CPS) said it had finished sorting through, and removing,
Satellites shine light on Dorian's damage
Grand Bahama’s share of total Bahamian economic output dropped by 4.5 percentage points in the six years to 2018 based on the the strength of “night lights” seen from space, a study has revealed. A newly-released Inter-American Development Bank (IDB
Chamber unveils digital committee
The Chamber of Commerce has launched its own Digital Transformation Committee (DTC) to ensure the private sector’s needs are met by the government’s technology transformation efforts. Formally unveiling the new committee, the Chamber said it will wo
Bahamas draws ‘significant’ interest at top tourism show
The Bahamas attracted “significant” interest at this year’s New York Times Travel Show, the largest travel trade and consumer show in North America, with more than 1,000 attendees visiting its booth.
Travel awards honour top tourism performers
A regional media publication teamed with the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation to host the first-ever Bahamas Travel Awards Ceremony in recognition of the industry’s top performers.
Sunday, February 16
Man in custody after stabbing death
One man is dead and another is in custody after a stabbing incident off East Street in the early hours of Sunday.
Friday, February 14
Death, the great equalizer
The death of Kobe Bryant has for all intents and purposes been dominating the news and social media over the past couple of weeks. The superstar basketball player died in a horrific helicopter crash, along with his daughter and seven others in Calabasas, California.
Church of the Nazarene has 2020 vision
Under the theme “2020 Vision: Perceiving Through the Lens of Faith”, the Church of the Nazarene will celebrate 45 years of ministry in the Bahamas, beginning Tuesday, February 25, at 7pm.
Our rainbow
Most of us would be familiar with a rainbow and it many colours. There is a scientific explanation of the origin and composition of a rainbow, but this article focuses of a biblical interpretation and representation.
Open Windows – Part I Desire + New Action = Results
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” – Malachi 3:10
Women’s retreat to reveal God’s blueprint for success
Angel Livas, founder of the Woman Behind the Business Retreat, always ensured she had a spiritual undertone to her events, but struggled to weave God into her programmes in a meaningful way.
God’s grace helps new author survive devastating blows
At the age of six, Lateisha Black was given just 24 hours to live. She had been diagnosed with meningitis and the worst was feared, but like with so many other hurdles in her life since then, she was able to overcome.
Police called after row between man and woman at Freeport NIB Building
POLICE were called to a disturbance at the National Insurance Building in Freeport where a man and woman were involved in an argument on Valentine’s Day.
PLP leader: PM's unemployment prediction unrealistic
OPPOSITION Leader Philip "Brave" Davis said he does not believe the government will reduce the unemployment rate to six percent, accusing the prime minister of making the statement as a political strategy.
Man tells court he found stepson in pool of blood
A MAN told the court on Friday of how he heard what sounded like “firecrackers” going off at the nearby Freedom Park, only to end up finding his stepson lying in a pool of blood at the Fox Hill recreation grounds seven years ago.
Water and Sewerage reveals additional plans for Abaco
WATER and Sewage Corporation, having restored water supply in twelve Abaco settlements, have revealed additional restoration plans for the island.
Davis calls for Gibson's removal from WSC
OPPOSITION leader Philip “Brave” Davis has called for the removal of Water and Sewerage Company executive chairman Adrian Gibson – calling Mr Gibson a child and saying he is not mature enough to fill the role.
US Chargé d'Affaires pleased with Grand Bahama progress
Chargé d'Affaires Stephanie Bowers toured parts of Grand Bahama and was pleased with the progress of recovery. She said that the US will continue to support the Bahamas during its recovery.
Police investigate three armed robberies
POLICE are searching for people responsible for three separate armed robberies on Thursday.
EDITORIAL: Nygard lawsuit shows our failings as a nation
THE allegations against Peter Nygard are horrendous.
A COMIC'S VIEW: I once fell in love with someone who only knew four vowels . . . They didn't know I existed
Happy Valentine’s Day to each and every one of you. Seeing how, oftentimes love is accompanied by laughter, I think it only fitting to offer up some Valentine’s humour on the day of love, for all of the lovers, in love, in The Bahamas.
Water strike to go ahead
MEMBERS of the Bahamas Utilities Services and Allied Workers Union (BUSAWU) will continue their strike despite being notified by Labour Minister Dion Foulkes that he has referred the matter to the Industrial Tribunal. WSC officials said workers par
Third top cop moved on after forced vacation
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Leamond Deleveaux is now the third senior police officer appointed to a government ministry following his forced vacation leave, with Commissioner of Police Anthony Ferguson directing him to report to the Ministry of
PM predicts jobless rate will fall to 6% by end of 2021
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday predicted the national unemployment rate will drop to six percent or less by the end of 2021. Dr Minnis made the prediction while speaking to reporters about the reactions he received from residents in Abaco
600 jobs expected as Minnis signs heads of agreement for $300m Abaco project
A HEADS of Agreement was officially signed yesterday between the government and Tyrsoz Family Holdings Ltd for a $300 million residential resort and marina in South Abaco, which will allow for the creation of 600 construction jobs on the island. Not
Armed robberies spark increase in police manpower
FOLLOWING a string of recent armed robberies and home invasions in New Providence, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday police officers will be beefing up manpower in an effort to get the matter under control. “We’ve heard of and we recogn
We're close to finalising plans to bury storm victims, says Russell
NATIONAL Emergency Management Agency Director Captain Stephen Russell yesterday said officials are in the process of finalising a plan that would allow them to bury storm victims who are currently being held in a refrigerated trailer.Captain Russell
DPM: Bahamas 'far from' uncontrolled debt spiral
The government is “far from” an uncontrolled debt spiral, the deputy prime minister argued yesterday, while voicing concern that a PLP administration would not remain faithful to fiscal consolidation. K Peter Turnquest told Tribune Business that Bah
Minister hails $300m South Abaco project as 'transformational'
The government “is very mindful of the environmental concerns” surrounding the just-approved $300m South Abaco project, a Cabinet minister said yesterday, hailing it as “transformational”. Dionisio D’Aguilar, pictured , minister of tourism and aviat
Beat OECD/EU to income tax
A former attorney general yesterday urged The Bahamas to implement a “progressive” income tax regime geared to its own needs before one is imposed by the OECD/European Union (EU).Alfred Sears QC told Tribune Business that this nation should view its
'Chicken and egg' on project labour
South Abaco’s MP yesterday said concerns over whether there is sufficient housing for a $300m development’s 600-strong workforce represents “a chicken and egg” situation. James Albury, speaking to Tribune Business following the Heads of Agreement si
Bahamas resident defeats Canadian sanctions of $20m
A Bahamas resident has defeated a Canadian regulator’s bid to impose a $20m-plus sanction on him after the Supreme Court ruled it cannot be enforced in this jurisdiction.Justice Ian Winder, in a January 29, 2020, verdict, ruled that the Ontario Secur
Andros eviction threat for 1,800
RESIDENTS living in structures illegally erected on government land in North Andros have been issued eviction notices, a move that could possibly displace an estimated 1,800 people.
Nygard hit with new US sex lawsuit
PETER Nygard has been accused of raping ten women, including nine Bahamians, in a wide-ranging criminal enterprise that involved intimidating victims and offering them hush money for over more than a decade.
Ankle injury forces Ayton to withdraw from Rising Stars on All-Star weekend
A NAGGING ankle injury will keep Deandre Ayton sidelined during NBA All-Star weekend and forced his withdrawal from the 2020 NBA Rising Stars Game. The Phoenix Suns centre will be replaced by Nicolo Melli of the New Orleans Pelicans in the game, to
Team Bahamas set for inaugural Interscholastic Equestrian Invitational in Georgia on Saturday
EQUESTRIAN Bahamas is all set to record another historic milestone in Bahamian sport when it fields its first team to an international event this weekend. Peyton Wong, Elle O’Brien, Mila Sands, Maya Tilberg and Nicholas Astwood are expected to compe
Men's national basketball team 'one of the best' assembled
WHEN the Bahamas Basketball Federation heads to Mexico this weekend to play in the first leg of the home-and-away series in the FIBA Americup 2021 Qualifiers, president Mario Bowleg feels they will have one of the best all-around teams ever assembled
Work permit problems hit Chinese
THE discontinuance of work permits to people from China amid coronavirus fears creates “an inconvenience for the people-to-people exchange” between that country and The Bahamas, Chinese Ambassador Huang Qinguo said yesterday. “Some of the (local Chi
Man admits stabbing alleged sex offender to death in bar
A man admitted yesterday to stabbing an alleged sex offender at a bar following an altercation nearly two years ago. Dino Pinto denied murdering Jeremy Petit-Frere on September 8, 2018, but instead pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter
No shame in being a 'darkie'
After reflecting on the racist gaffe committed by a Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) official at a recent rally at Columbus Primary School, I began to reflect on the PLP’s history on race relations.
DIANE PHILLIPS: What's love got to do with it anyway?
News alert. Today is Valentine’s Day. That is, it’s a news alert for anyone who drove to work today with blindfolds on and did not see pop-up florist stands proffering roses for those to whom planning ahead was something that could be procrastinated.
High jumper Jamal Wilson qualifies for Tokyo Olympics
COACH Ronald Cartwright feels that based on their offseason training, high jumper Jamal Wilson is on track for turning in a credible performance this year. In his first international meet in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia, on Tuesday, Wilson soared to a
Tennis ace Justin Roberts making his presence felt
AFTER his upsetting win over the top-seeded player, Justin Roberts continues to make his presence felt at the Cancun Tennis Academy in Cancun, Mexico. Playing in his second tournament for the year, Roberts pulled off a 6-3, 7-6 (4) over Juan Alejand
Where's the emergency?
When may a Police or Fire truck or Ambulance use a siren? I ask because over the past months there has been a serious misuse I suggest of that blaring noisy siren without any emergency whatsoever – Why?
Falcons, Saints junior basketball champions
One defending champion was dethroned while the other made it three consecutive division titles as the BAISS concluded its basketball championship series at Loyola Hall last night. In Junior Girls, the Kingsway Academy Saints overcame a game one loss
STARS College Soccer Showcase starts next Thursday
THE Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s Student-Athlete Resources and Support (STARS) programme will continue its mission of creating opportunities for local student athletes to showcase their skills on the soccer pitch. The second annua
Wife was in US when husband killed in Fox Hill shootings
A WOMAN yesterday testified how she had left her husband in The Bahamas to go on a trip with her children out of the country, only to find out later that he was one of four people killed in the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting. Helen Davis, taking the wi
Meditation: The Abundant life
This is a life of love and liberty. Let us explore this further.
Nassau airport upgrades set to resume next week
The Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) yesterday confirmed it will resume upgrading runway and apron surfaces at The Bahamas’ main airport on February 17.The Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) operator said the latest work would focus
Disney teams for $1m assistance to start-ups
Disney Cruise Line yesterday teamed with Eleuthera’s Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) to pledge $1m in assistance for the island’s business start-ups.The funds, which will be distributed over a three-year period, a
IAN FERGUSON: Are graduates ready for the world of work?
I sat silently observing an assembly of 12 grade students, and pondered how adequately we have prepared them for the global corporate environment. How focused have we been in ensuring what they receive in our schools is applicable and relevant to the
BPL starts its winter generation overhaul
Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) yesterday said its winter maintenance overhaul has begun with one unit at Clifton Pier Power Station being taken off-line for 25 days. The state-owned energy monopoly, in a statement, said the DA13 diesel engine was rem
Bahamas to host major pageant
The Ministry of Tourism and Aviation yesterday announced that The Bahamas will host the World Beauty Fitness and Fashion (WBFF) pageant at the Baha Mar resort.
Thursday, February 13
EDITORIAL: The long, slow path to justice for Ericka
IT has taken a long time for any measure of justice to be reached over the death of Ericka Fowler.
STATESIDE: Watch who Trump targets - that may be his biggest contender
They put a Rotary Club awards ceremony on American national TV last week.
Man on bail for murder jailed for owning gun
A MAN previously on bail for murder was sentenced to over two years in prison yesterday after being caught with a loaded gun in his home two days ago. Magistrate Samuel McKinney sentenced Andre Thompson to two-and-a-half years in prison for being ca
We must have resiliency in buildings, says Lewis
MINISTER of State for Disaster Preparedness Iram Lewis said his ministry plans to introduce building proposals in the upcoming months to “support the view of building for resiliency.” During his speech in the House of Assembly yesterday, Mr Lewis sa
Minnis: Govt will only take up pledges which are in our interests
THE government will only pursue offers coming out of January’s Hurricane Dorian Pledging Conference that are in the best interests of the residents of the areas affected by the storm, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said on Tuesday. During his first
Quarantine numbers fall
THE number of Bahamians in quarantine after travel to China has declined, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health. Four people have been released already and two more were expected to be released from quarantine yesterday, the ministry
WSC embarks on 'right-sizing' programme
THE Water and Sewerage Corporation is embarking on a process of staff transfers to “right-size” departments and ensure better efficiency. In a statement released yesterday, WSC officials said: “As we move to realign the corporation to heighten its e
20-year-old remanded over 'karaoke king' attack
A 20-year-old man was remanded to prison yesterday for trying to kill Bahamian entertainer Demetrius Smith in the course of an armed robbery on Sunday. Rasheed Watson was charged before magistrate Samuel McKinney on one count each of attempted murder
Carnival to spend $100m on new Grand Bahama dock
MONTHS after a crane collapsed and damaged Grand Bahama Shipyard’s largest dock, Carnival Corporation is planning a $100 million investment to build a new and bigger dock. Giora Israel, senior vice president of global ports and destination developme
British High Commissioner glad to be back in business
THE British High Commission was officially re-opened during a special ceremony in New Providence yesterday nearly 15 years after closing its operations in the country.Speaking at yesterday’s ceremony, British High Commissioner Sarah Dickson said the
'Beer we go': Sands in full return by June
Bahamians can look forward to Sands Beer and its fellow beverages returning by “early summer”, the brand’s founder revealed yesterday, as he predicted a “massive” effort to rebuild market share. Jimmy Sands, the Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company
Taxpayer interest bill to jump $50m
Bahamian taxpayers face a $50m post-Dorian hike in debt servicing costs that a former finance minister yesterday described as “very troubling” for fiscal sustainability. James Smith, pictured , who held the post under the first Christie administrati
DPM predicts $130m economic output fall
The government is forecasting that Bahamian economic output may be slashed by a full percentage point due to Hurricane Dorian, the deputy prime minister revealed yesterday. K Peter Turnquest, pictured , launching the House of Assembly debate on the
Digital dollar to have 'monumental effect'
The Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive yesterday predicted that the Bahamian digital currency will “have a monumental effect” on the transparency and safety of local financial transactions. Jeffrey Beckles, speaking after the Central Bank introdu
China virus could hit Pointe finish
THE Pointe’s developer, China Construction America (CCA), is worried that the travel ban on people from China due to the deadly coronavirus outbreak will affect the timely completion of the resort’s construction, according to a Chinese Embassy official.
Justice in sight - but 14 years late: Family finally see man admit brutally killing their mother
THE son of a woman fatally stabbed over a decade ago in front of her children is calling for swift justice over her murder, after the man charged with the killing confessed to the crime.
Foulkes wades in to stop water strikers
WATER and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) workers will have to go back to work as Labour Minister Dion Foulkes has referred their strike action to the Industrial Tribunal, saying the issue has “threatened the public interest”.
‘No new taxes’ to pay for Dorian
THE Minnis administration’s request for additional borrowing is not for idle purposes, Finance Minister Peter Turnquest insisted yesterday. He told Parliament the country’s insufficient resources led government to seek more money following Hurricane Dorian.
PLP blasts Minnis national address
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ first national address of 2020 was a “fake report” showing government is completely detached from reality, Opposition leader Philip Davis said yesterday.
Bahamas blanked by Guatemala in Junior Fed Cup Pre-Qualifier
THE Bahamas was blanked by Guatemala yesterday as they continued play in the 2020 North/Central America and Caribbean Junior Fed Cup Pre-Qualifying tournament in El Salvador.
Greene and J Addison win OSBA Challenge Series
PAUL Greene led his J Addison Prep basketball programme to another in-season tournament title in the Ontario Scholastic Basketball Association.
Saints, Falcons stave off elimination
BOTH junior divisions will go to third and deciding games in the BAISS basketball championship series as the Kingsway Academy Saints and Jordan Prince Williams Falcons staved off elimination against the St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine.
Still struggling for a fair society
The spinning sound we heard this week was not a carnival ride, rather, the late patriot and statesman Sir Milo Boughton Butler turning in his grave.
Unselfish volunteers
Five dreary months have passed since Hurricane Dorian lay waste Abaco and Grand Bahama, and daily in the local press we hear and read of persons being dissatisfied with the pace of hurricane reconstruction.
QC boys, SAC girls are basketball champions
Both titles in the BAISS Senior divisions were decided by two-game sweeps as the SAC Big Red Machine won the Senior Girls while the Queen’s College Comets won Senior Boys at Loyola Hall last night.
Bahamas promotes new Denver airlift
Ministry of Tourism officials promoted the latest direct airlift link to The Bahamas to 20 journalists and social media influencers, and 140 travel agents, on a recent visit to Denver. The trip, which also included Bahamian hoteliers, was undertaken
Demand concern for key Abaco air link
The Abaco Chamber of Commerce’s president has voiced concern over whether there will be sufficient demand to sustain American Airlines’ return to the island which starts today. Ken Hutton told Tribune Business that the resumption of the carrier’s in
GB businesses RISE with $160,000 funding
A further 14 Grand Bahama businesses have received grant funding from an initiative that has already awarded almost $160,000 to assist with post-Hurricane Dorian restoration.Team RISE, which stands for Restoring Industries and Sustaining Employment,
Complete Bahamian digital dollar roll-out by year-end
THE Central Bank’s governor yesterday confirmed that the digital Bahamian dollar will be rolled-out throughout all islands during the 2020 second half after being introduced to Abaco by month’s end.John Rolle, pictured, addressing a Bahamas Chamber o
URCA takes consumer protection to Eleuthera
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is planning to take its consumer protection message to Eleuthera and Grand Bahama residents this month. The supervisory body, in a statement issued yesterday, said it will return to the latte
Bahamian Brewery hails Pernod tie-up
A Freeport-based brewery has further expanded its product offering with a deal to act as the exclusive Bahamian distribution agent for Pernod Ricard's wine and spirits brands, Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company said the tie-up with Pernod Ricard'
Wednesday, February 12
Man 'serious' after stabbing
A MAN is in hospital after he was stabbed while walking on West Bay Street yesterday morning. Police said that shortly after 2am, the victim was walking on West Bay Street near McDonald’s restaurant, when he was approached by two men who stabbed him
EDITORIAL: Good news after the storm
THE delight was obvious to see in Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ announcements of two big economic deals – one for South Abaco and one for Grand Bahama.
Lewis warns building codes will be firmly enforced
WITH an estimated $3.4bn in losses and damage caused by Hurricane Dorian in the northern Bahamas, State Minister for Disaster Reconstruction Iram Lewis has warned there will be a review and more “aggressive” approach in enforcing the building code.
Company to spend $48m on addressing environmental issues
CARNIVAL Corporation officials say the company has been experiencing a decline in sewage discharge problems as it embraces wide ranging measures to improve its environmental safety record. A top official said the company will invest $48 million over
BPL offloading Aggreko units, says Bannister
BAHAMAS Power and Light is currently in the process of getting “rid” of its Aggreko units, Minister of Works Desmond Bannister said days after a fire occurred at one of the company’s plants. “BPL has a number of rental units called Aggreko units to w
Woods calls for removal of Gibson and plans ‘full strike’
THE unions representing the managers and line staff at the Water & Sewerage Corporation called for the removal of WSC executive chairman Adrian Gibson and for the corporation’s executives to meet with both unions to address their grievances during day one of a joint strike.
Sands: China virus to cost govt $100k
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands estimated the coronavirus quarantine process will cost the government nearly $100,000. Yesterday he pegged the figure for this initiative at $75,000-$85,000 and expects that expense to climb. He said that the cost acco
Grand Lucayan deal likely to be signed next month
THE sale of the Grand Lucayan resort in Grand Bahama is expected to be made final when a Heads of Agreement is signed on March 2. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis made the announcement last night, while foreshadowing the creation of 2,000 to 3,000 jo
ALICIA WALLACE: Going through the motions is the easy option - but not the right one
This past weekend, my father celebrated his birthday and we marked the occasion by attending his church. I realised, not for the first time, that it was quite easy to go through the motions of sitting and standing, responding when prompted and follow the entire service without aid. Years of weekly attendance with my great-grandmother ensured that, not only was the mass cemented into my memory, but several versions of it.
UPDATED: Two arrests after staff held hostage in armed robbery
Two men are in custody after staff were held hostage in an armed robbery at the FML Plaza on Carmichael Road on Tuesday morning.
'Strange message from company town owners'
Freeport’s two largest owners have sent “a strange message” to other investors by their reluctance to rebuild Grand Bahama’s airport post-Dorian, a leading hotelier argued last night. Magnus Alnebeck, Pelican Bay’s general manager, told Tribune Busi
'From bridesmaid to bride' on March 2 Lucayan close
The prime minister’s announcement of a March 2 closing date for the Grand Lucayan sale was last night hailed as “a game changer to transform Freeport from the bridesmaid into the bride”.James Sarles, principal of Coldwell Banker James Sarles Realty,
Collision course on South Abaco project
The government is heading for a confrontation with environmental activists after the prime minister last night confirmed it has approved a controversial $580m project for South Abaco.Dr Hubert Minnis, in his televised national address, said the devel
Insurance cuts Aliv's Dorian cost to $2.5m
Aliv’s subscriber base grew by 20 percent during the final six months of 2019, its top executive revealed yesterday, after the mobile operator shrugged off $2.5m in one-off net Dorian costs. Damian Blackburn told Tribune Business it had “recovered a
Probe found 'no wrong doing' on $5m water deal
A probe into complaints over a $5m contract awarded to BHM Company (Bahamas Hot Mix) found “no wrong doing”, a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) executive said yesterday. Daniel Best, its director of projects, defended the $28.5m Water Supply Improve
Two more guilty of Breanna murder
A young mother burst into tears and fell to the floor in court in despair yesterday after she and her friend were unanimously convicted of murdering teenage mother Breanna Mackey two years ago.
Carnival says Grand Bahama proposal has doubled
CARNIVAL Corporation’s investment in Grand Bahama, already its largest in the region, has doubled in size and may grow even more by the time the details are finalised, an official said.
Closures signal ‘illegals extraction’
IMMIGRATION Minister Elsworth Johnson said yesterday immigration officials will “extract” undocumented migrants living in shelters throughout New Providence once those facilities have been deactivated.
‘Darkies’ remark forces apology
A PLP official has issued a public apology after coming under fire for controversial remarks about “darkies” she made at a PLP rally on Monday night. While introducing PLP Senator Dr Michael Darville at the party’s campaign launch on Monday night, PLP National Vice-Chair Patricia Deveaux bragged about the party having attractive members, rather than a “bunch of darkies.”
PM signs off on Abaco project
A HEADS of Agreement for a $300m residential resort and marina in South Abaco is to be signed today, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis revealed last night.
Fred Smith was off the mark with Carnival
Mr Smith, I am with you on many issues. However, your Carnival defence piece was off the mark.
Reserve policeman jailed for assault on teenage girl
RESERVE Sergeant Dwayne Decosta was sentenced to six months in prison yesterday for abducting and assaulting a teenage girl at a police station two years ago. Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson sentenced the 56-year-old convict to six months behind bars
PLP out to win over media
I recently saw a collage of Facebook photos of high ranking Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) officials and prominent media personalities frolicking comfortably at what looked like a lavish social event at a high-end residence.
It's a question of security
Security for present and past Governor Generals - Prime Ministers - Judges - Magistrates, etc…can the Minister confirm or deny that none of the above has 24/7 security?
Rattlers strike first
The CI Gibson Rattlers showed why they have the two top ranked teams in the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association as they rallied from behind to take a 1-0 lead in their best-of-three basketball championship series at the Loyola Hall on Gladstone Road last night.
Ansel Ferguson, Driskell Rolle are city bowling MVPs
THE most valuable player in the City Bowling League competition Monday night was Ansel Ferguson of Carib Construction with a 224-second high game and a 630 high three-game series.
Temple Christian Suns bring championship title to Nassau
THE Temple Christian Suns advanced to both the boys and girls finals, but only managed to come back from Grand Bahama with one of the championship trophies in the HOYTES Gladstone ‘Moon’ McPhee/Cecil Thompson Primary School Basketball Tournament.
Ozzie ‘The Insider’ Simmons’ high school basketball top 10 rankings
GRAND Bahamian Ozzie ‘The Insider’ Simmons has released his Top 10 rankings as the action heats up in high school basketball throughout the country.
NPBA: Specialists stop Rebels 93-85, Eagles Nest get 96-89 win over Elites
THE Uptown Cuts Specialists and the Leno Eagles Nest prevailed in the New Providence Basketball Association double header at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Monday night.
Bacardi pledges $1m to assist Dorian recovery
Bacardi has pledged almost $1m towards helping small and micro businesses in the tourism sector recover from Hurricane Dorian’s devastation. Executives from the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA), Mercy Corps International (MC) and the American Red
Caribbean integration 'key' to hitting development goals
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) approved $200m in loans and grants last year as it focused on regional integration as a means to achieve the 2030 sustainable development goals (SDGs).Daniel Best, its director of projects, said yesterday: “We app
Caribbean bank projects 2% growth for Bahamas
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) yesterday gave the most optimistic forecast yet for The Bahamas’ 2020 prospects by predicting this nation’s economic output will expand by two percent. Dr Justin Ram, its director of economics, told reporters: “I
Tuesday, February 11
Dangers of fad diets
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Active surveillance: a safe and effective method to manage prostate cancer
Prostate cancer will affect one in six men in their lifetime.
Lost and found family
Adoption is a topic that is not often talked about in the Bahamas. Yet there are hundreds of children in the country who have either been left orphaned after the deaths of their parents or were given up by their biological parents. For many of them, one of the country’s several children’s homes is the only home they will ever know.
LIFE LINES: Write your own story, Cinderella!
Writing your story doesn’t have to be taken literally, although if you feel you have a story to tell by all means write it.
Mia’s Abaco-inspired dishes land her top spot in culinary competition
Hurricane Dorian couldn’t put a stop to her dreams, and neither could a malfunctioning oven.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T...Find out what it means to the ‘Foxy Ladies’
New Bahamian rom-com premieres this Valentine’s Day
A battle of the sexes is brewing in a new Bahamian film set to premiere this Valentine’s Day.
Conference seeks to show women how to love themselves
Shena C Johnson wants every woman to know one vital thing about herself: “You’re worth it”.
EDITORIAL: Big promises but prosecutions fall flat
FIRST on the election trail and then again once in office, tackling corruption was a theme that Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis kept returning to.
PETER YOUNG: What comes first - a terrorist’s rights or the public’s safety?
It was sad to write in this column last November about the terrorist attack that had taken place on London Bridge. This resulted in the murder of two young people - who were dedicated to the rehabilitation of prisoners - by a convicted Islamist terrorist. The attacker had been released from prison on licence after serving half his sentence and was himself later killed by the police. How depressing it is, so soon after that, to comment now on another similar incident in the British capital just a week ago.
Haitian man jailed for getting fake birth certificate for daughter
A Haitian man was sentenced to three years behind bars yesterday for getting a fake birth certificate and school acceptance letter in order to obtain legal papers for his daughter. Jacsen Simeon avoided the maximum five-year penalty yesterday for sw
33 years for killing former Governor General's aide
A MAN was sentenced to over 30 years in prison yesterday for murdering the aide-de-camp to former Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling over a year ago. Justice Bernard Turner sentenced Timothy Cole to 33 years behind bars for murdering Inspector
Moree happy to discuss selection of judges
CHIEF Justice Brian Moree says he understands the Bahamas Bar Association’s calls for greater transparency in the country’s judge selection process, telling The Tribune that to do so would ensure a level playing field. BBA President Kahlil Parker, a
FACE TO FACE: Gena holds a key to unlocking children’s potential
The values we impart to our children are often reflected in the way they live their lives as adults. That is why, when I write Face to Face and tell the stories of people who are walking in their purpose, they often refer to their parents and credit them for their part in making them who they are.
Leno's 'new mission': $3bn assets by 2024
An “ambitious” Bahamian financial provider sees its “new mission” as tripling assets under management to $3bn within the three years to 2024 via a mixture of local and international expansion. Sean Longley, the Leno Group of Companies’ founder, yest
'Taxpayer waste' fears on $130m civil service spend
The government’s planned $130m investment in the civil service will “waste taxpayers’ money” unless the correct “checks and balances” are put in place, a governance reformer has warned.Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (ORG)
Jitney system pilot is 'cultural shock'
Customers and jitney drivers are grappling with a “cultural adjustment” following the roll-out of the bus unification system’s test route, the project manager has revealed.Marvin Clarke, in an interview with Tribune Business, said that while there ar
PM: 'Much work needed to boost our productivity'
The prime minister yesterday admitted The Bahamas faces “much work to boost productivity and prosperity” as he helped launch the $25m construction of a local financial provider’s new office complex. Dr Hubert Minnis, acknowledging that the Leno Grou
Bank warns 'efficiency' key to Bahamas' IFC survival
A Swiss bank that is selling majority control of its Bahamian subsidiary has told this nation to focus on regulatory and ease of doing business “efficiency” to improve its financial centre status.A SYZ Group spokesperson, responding to Tribune Busine
Forget Florida - spend repair grants at home
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis officially launched the Small Homes Repair Programme in Grand Bahama to help residents rebuild their homes destroyed five months ago by Hurricane Dorian.
Davis puts his case to be the next prime minister
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis made his case for replacing Dr Hubert Minnis as prime minister during a campaign launch last night, two weeks after Dr Minnis launched his own re-election bid.
Smith and Gibson sue for damages: Cleared of corruption, now they hit back for ‘malicious prosecution’
SHANE Gibson and Frank Smith have sued the government for malicious prosecution and are seeking aggravated and exemplary damages stemming from the bribery charges they were acquitted of last year.
‘Frustrated’ WSC workers strike today
THE union representing Water and Sewerage Corporation workers plans to strike today, angered by lingering issues and alleged staff “abuse”.
‘Karaoke King’ survives brutal attack
BAHAMIAN entertainer Demetrius Smith is in hospital after being stabbed during an armed robbery in eastern New Providence early on Sunday morning.
Kingdor hopes to make life better for Parkinson’s sufferers
Around the world, the month of April is observed as Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and here in the Bahamas the Kingdor National Parkinson Foundation is gearing up to host a series of events under the theme “Better Lives Together”.
Jonquel Jones signs multi-year contract with Sun
JONQUEL Jones was the first member of this current star-studded WNBA free agent class to sign and will remain with the Connecticut Sun for the foreseeable future. Jones signed a multi-year contract with the Sun yesterday as the league’s free agency
Two women in hospital after shooting
TWO women are in hospital following a shooting inside a business on Carmichael Road Sunday night, police said. The incident occurred shortly before 7pm. Police said the two women were inside a business on Carmichael Road west of Gladstone Road, “whe
Register for people with Parkinson's disease
KINGDOR National Parkinson Foundation is trying to get assistance from the Ministry of Health to set up a national register for the number of people with Parkinson’s disease. The foundation’s president, Marvis Darling-Hill, explained yesterday at th
Keep up the quarantine
We certainly hope there is no weakening on the part of Dr Sands to lessen the quarantine measures for the Bahamas to prevent the dreaded coronavirus being introduced here just because the Chinese Ambassador to the Bahamas thinks his quarantine measures for the Bahamas are too severe.
Driving so dangerous
The driving in Nassau has become nothing short of frightening. I have noticed three trends, all occurring at traffic intersections and all of which have become the norm.
Marijuana madness
DEAR Honourable Brother Marvin H Dames, the Most Honourable Hubert A Minnis, the Honourable Carl W Bethel, QC, et al:
A Pointe to prove
Re: Bay Street ‘Facing The Wrong Way’. The Tribune, February 7, 2020.
Missing the Haitians
This is no time to be critical, or even sarcastic, but I can’t help but comment on an observation made recently by a friend of mine about how much cleaning up of debris that still had to be done in Abaco after Hurricane Dorian. His aside was that the people seemed to be waiting to see who was going to arrive to do the heavy lifting.
Step up for heart health
BRISKLY walking up stairs, down stairs, to your car, and just taking more steps in a day is an easy exercise that can have a huge, positive impact on your heart.
Spotlight on heart disease and obesity at second Cleveland Clinic lecture
For more than a decade, the leading cause of death among Bahamians has been heart disease, with mortality numbers increasing year over year.
Theo Knowles and the Saints win title in Texas state league
THEO Knowles, making the transition from playing in the Bahamas to the United States of America, helped the Faith Christian Academy Saints win their first senior boys Texas state league basketball championship title over the weekend. “We started off
Road to Olympics: Hield pulls off 2nd-round TKO
CARL Hield’s road to the 2020 Olympic Games qualifying tournament began with a victory in his first match for the year over the weekend in Pennsylvania. Hield, the top Bahamian amateur boxer now training in Tampa, Florida, pulled off a second-round
Children take advantage of free 'Play Tennis' clinics
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) “Play Tennis” programme is reporting a steady stream of young children between the ages of four and 16 at its free tennis clinics on Saturdays. On this past Saturday, the rain did not deter the crowd of chi
Big Red Machine on a roll in championship
The St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine won the opening game in three of four contested divisions while the Queen’s College senior boys prevented a SAC sweep as the BAISS championship series got underway at Loyola Hall last night.Game two in each
Strong Bahamian presence at the AUS Championship
THE Atlantic University Sport conference championships will have a strong Bahamian presence after three teams clinched spots in the playoffs or top seeding over the weekend. The AUS Championship will be hosted February 28 to March 1 at the Scotiaban
DPM calls for greater Caribbean resilience
The deputy prime minister has urged the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to invest in initiatives that will make the region more resilient and self-sufficient. K Peter Turnquest, chair of the CDB’s Board of Governors, said The Bahamas’ recent experi
Minister promises to fix 'toxic BAIC environment'
A Cabinet minister yesterday acknowledged “the toxic environment” at the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) while pledging that its long-standing issues are being addressed. Michael Pintard, minister of agriculture and marine res
Minister leads BTVI on mission to US college
A Cabinet minister recently led officials of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) to Orlando-based Valencia College on a fact-finding mission. Jeffrey Lloyd, minister of education, was accompanied by BTVI’s president, Dr Robert W Ro
Monday, February 10
Driver dies in another police chase
A MAN died in a fiery crash after leading police on a car chase in the Carmichael Road area where he collided with a parked Mack truck.
Woman denies stealing in car scam operation
A 29-year-old woman was remanded to prison yesterday after denying allegations she stole thousands of dollars from several people in furtherance of a car scam. Felicia Wilmott, pictured, was charged before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis over
EDITORIAL: Where are our children learning to be violent?
HAS your child been in a fight at school in the past 30 days?
Moree: Changes would ease pressure on courts
CHIEF Justice Brian Moree has said decriminalising small amounts of marijuana possession is a “policy issue” that if made, would alleviate some of the case load from the court system.Stressing he needed to be extremely careful in speaking about the c
'We'll deal with Andros migrants in humane manner'
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said there have been many complaints about illegal immigration in Andros and vowed yesterday to clamp down on the problem in a humane manner. His comments to The Tribune came as the Department of Immigration continues
Three in hospital after separate stabbing and shootings
THREE men are in hospital after separate shooting and stabbing incidents. Police said a man was shot after 9pm on Thursday. He was walking on Taylor Street, Nassau Village when a gunman approached and shot him. The injured man is in stable conditio
INSIGHT: Education is critical otherwise we're on the road to nowhere
At a time when the country is filled with challenges, the Bahamian people, while not having a shortage of problems, can’t say the same for solutions.
Taylor’s creditors left high and dry
Kelly's Home Centre leads the Bahamian unsecured creditors who will receive nothing of the debts owed to them by Taylor Industries, its liquidator has revealed.
Minister’s pride on tourism ‘shake-up’
A Cabinet minister has voiced pride at “really shaking up” the Ministry of Tourism’s workforce after discovering that the nine percent aged under 30 accounted for nine out of 10 resignations.
Realtors close on reforms to 'take it to another level'
The Bahamas Real Estate Association’s (BREA) president says the industry is “almost there” with reforms to its governing Act that are designed to “take it to another level”.Christine Wallace-Whitfield, pictured, told Tribune Business that the propose
Bahamas ranked 81st in world for corporate bribery
The Bahamas 81st ranking in a new global bribery index must serve as a wake-up call to “keep our foot on the gas pedal” in the fight against corruption, governance reformers urged yesterday.
Dames: No let up on marijuana arrests
POLICE officers will not stop arresting marijuana users despite the recommendations made by the Bahamas National Commission on Marijuana concerning the drug, according to National Security Minister Marvin Dames.
‘Abaco clean-up is making progress’: Clarke hits back at criticism of pace for island’s rebuild
CHAIRMAN of the Disaster Reconstruction Authority John-Michael Clarke yesterday defended the pace of the debris removal on Abaco, noting that officials feel “certain” that work is progressing on the storm-impacted island.
Moree plans moves to restore court integrity
ACCEPTING the findings of Auditor General Terrance Bastian’s audit into the Magistrates’ Court as a “serious” matter, Chief Justice Brian Moree has said there will be fundamental changes with the system over the next six months in a bid to restore integrity.
China ban may relax to 14 days
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday the government will certainly reconsider a change to the new coronavirus quarantine measures to align The Bahamas with the posture of other countries.
Charles Bain posts season high scoring effort
CHARLES Bain posted a season high scoring effort to lead his Robert Morris Colonials to a fifth straight win in the Northeastern Conference. Bain finished with 16 points in the Colonials’ 61-58 win on the road over Sacred Heart. The junior forward
Jazz Chisholm appears at Marlins' annual Fanfest
THE Miami Marlins hosted its annual Fanfest on Saturday at Marlins Park to give fans their first opportunity to see and interact with the 2020 roster which now includes Jazz Chisholm. Chisholm’s appearance on the Big O Show with Orlando Alzugaray Jr
'Buddy' becomes fastest player in NBA history to reach 800 career 3s
The crowd at the Golden One Center in Sacramento, California, exploded with chants of “Buddy! Buddy” as Buddy Hield put on an historic shooting performance and reached another NBA milestone from three-point range. Hield shot 9-10 from beyond the arc
WORLD VIEW: Time for a new approach in Venezuela - and it may very well be played by Trump himself
WHEN is a failed policy recognised as a failure and abandoned for a new approach? That was the question Barack Obama and his administration had to confront after more than 50 years of a policy of trade embargoes, sanctions and, at one point, invasion that failed to dislodge the Castro government in Cuba. It is a question the present Donald Trump administration should be considering in relation to Venezuela and the Nicolas Maduro government.
POLICE ADVICE: Remember - never take a chance with a robber
By observing basic precautionary measures, chances of becoming a robbery victim are greatly reduced. Here are some general rules to follow:
It's easy to confuse tactics and strategy
Leader of the opposition is never an easy job.
Bloated health insurance
Re: All Homes Must Have Insurance’: Leading Insurer Warns Mandatory Cover Has To Be On Agenda After Dorian. – Tribune, Wednesday, Feb 5th.
NPWBA: Rockettes in the win column
THE Discount Distributors Rockettes won the lone game played in the New Providence Women’s Basketball Association at the DW Davis Gymnasium on Saturday night. The Rockettes prevailed with a 62-54 decision over the Arawaks. Christine Sinclair, playi
Deandre Ayton grabs his 1,000th career rebound
DEANDRE Ayton continues to set franchise records for Phoenix in just his second NBA season.Ayton finished with 28 points, 19 rebounds in the Suns’ 117-108 loss to the Denver Nuggets at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona, on Saturday n
Bahamians turn up the heat on track
A NUMBER of Bahamians turned in credible performances over the weekend in both the professional and collegiate ranks.Gaither fourth in TorunAt the World Athletics Indoor Tour’s Orlen Copernicus Cup in Torun, Poland, sprinter Tynia Gaither got fourth
NPBA: Giants stop High Flyers 125-104, Regulators beat defenders 76-73
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants continue to roll along with the best record in the New Providence Basketball Association.On Saturday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium, the Giants stomped past the Breezes High Flyers 125-104 to highlight a series of gam
BAIC's 160 staff warned to brace for workforce cut
Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation’s (BAIC) 160 employees have been warned to brace for job losses as the “heavily overstaffed” agency awaits the results of a manpower audit.Bishop Gregory Collie, its chairman, said Strivewise Performanc
Tourism: No impact yet from coronavirus
A senior Bahamian tourism executive yesterday said the industry has suffered no impact “to-date” from the global novel coronavirus outbreak as it heads into the peak winter season.Robert Sands, Baha Mar’s senior vice-president of government and exter
Tourism honours its 'timeless treasures'
The Ministry of Tourism has honoured 17 of its “timeless treasures” with numerous accolades for longevity and serving the country’s major industry with distinction.“Over the years you’ve put your shoulder to the collective wheel and, with excellence,
Oil explorer extends fund offer by 3 days
“Sophisticated” Bahamian investors will have an extra three days to buy into the £2m mutual fund created to allow them to participate in local oil exploration activities. The offering period for the Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC) sponsored fund will
Produce Exchange moves for upgrade
The Potter’s Cay Dock Produce Exchange is being temporarily relocated as part of a $20,000 refurbishment designed to alleviate health concerns that have existed since Hurricane Matthew. The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) conf
Sunday, February 9
Boxer Rashield Williams picks up his third victory
RASHIELD Williams, now training in the Philippines, picked up his third victory with a third knockout over Rege Pahayag in the men’s welterweight division in amateur boxing. The fight was held in Tagaytay, Philippines. After the fight, Williams said
Minnis to make two major announcements
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis says he will make two major announcements concerning Grand Bahama and a Family Island when he delivers his first national address of the year tomorrow. He told The Tribune: “The address gives me an opportunity to make
Four arrested after marijuana found
FOUR men were arrested after police discovered six boxes of marijuana worth $90,500 in New Providence.
Friday, February 7
Step Street set for road works
The Ministry of Public Works/Bahamix, has scheduled milling and paving works for Step Street.
Aquaponics project launched at schools on Grand Bahama
THE STEM in Aquaponic Sustainable Agriculture Project was launched on Grand Bahama at two schools where the pilot programme will teach students valuable skills of a more sustainable and eco-friendly system of food production.
BPL electrical failure on Friday morning
MANY customers voiced frustration Friday on Facebook over an electricity failure by Bahamas Power and Light Company leaving them without service.
Fatal police chase was 'tragic'
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames has called a recent police chase that led to two men being killed in a car crash “unfortunate” and “tragic”, adding it’s never easy when “someone loses their life.”
Dames urges students to 'say no to violence'
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames urged Bahamian students on Friday to "say no to violence” after a recent survey revealed that 17 percent of the students surveyed say they were in a fight at school within the last 30 days.
Dr Sands says coronavirus cruise ship report is 'non-story'
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands urged the public to avoid spreading “unverified information,” after reports alleging that a Royal Caribbean Cruise ship carrying passengers believed to have been exposed to the new Coronavirus, suggested that the ship was recently docked in Bahamian waters.
Companies urge homeowners to invest in alarms
SECURITY companies in New Providence are urging homeowners to invest in alarm systems as a first line of defence against criminals in view of concerns over a perceived increase in home invasions.
Bahamian, Chinese nationals intercepted during human smuggling operation
A Bahamian and a group of Chinese nationals were intercepted by the US Coast Guard at sea during an illegal human smuggling operation last week, according to Immigration officials on Grand Bahama.
A COMIC'S VIEW: All aboard the marijuana express
Seeing how the legalisation and decriminalisation, of marijuana seems to be the hot topic throughout all the land, with opinions from various sections of the voting populous abounding everywhere.
Moultrie: Ministers should give answers
HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie wants to make ministers answer questions in the House of Assembly and hopes the Rules Committee of the lower chamber ensures this happens. The ability of the official opposition to question Cabinet ministers is a popula
Gibson: Hurricane workers were abusing overtime
WATER and Sewerage Corporation executive chairman Adrian Gibson said officials uncovered an “abuse of overtime” among a handful of workers doing restoration on Abaco following Hurricane Dorian.
Police issue sketch in hunt for rapist
POLICE have issued a sketch of a man wanted for questioning in connection with a burglary and rape investigation. The man in the sketch has a dark complexion, is 5’7” to 5’8”, of medium build and is wearing a hoodie. Police did not say if he is want
Families frustrated over lack of answers on evacuation
RELATIVES of Bahamians in China have been left with very little answers about evacuating loved ones from the Asian country amid an outbreak of a new deadly strain of the coronavirus. The Tribune understands that family members who attended last week
Bay Street - it’s wrong way round
Downtown Nassau is failing to exploit its prime asset because many Bay Street buildings “are facing the wrong way”, a Cabinet minister has told Tribune Business.
'Slow, painful death' without corporate tax
A Bahamian financial services provider yesterday renewed calls for this nation to adopt a low-rate corporate income tax as the platform to prevent the industry “dying a slow, painful death”. Paul Moss, Dominion Management Services president, warned
Flight Services must cut ‘growing taxpayer draw’
Nassau Flight Services (NFS) must “reduce its ever-increasing draw” on Bahamian taxpayers, a Cabinet minister charged yesterday, after privatisation efforts proved unsuccessful.
Bahamas bank in managers buy-out
The majority buyout of a Bahamas-based bank by its existing local management team is only awaiting approval from the relevant regulators before it closes, it was revealed yesterday. The Swiss-headquartered SYZ Group confirmed in a statement that Bah
Labour chief's concern over Atlantis payroll
The government’s top labour official yesterday expressed disquiet that Atlantis appears to be moving ahead with switching to a bi-weekly payroll despite the hotel union’s objections.John Pinder, pictured, director of labour, said he was unsure “if it
Sir Arthur Foulkes and his wife ‘shaken’ after break-in
FORMER Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes and his wife have been left “shaken” after their West Bay Street home was broken into as they slept on Wednesday night.
‘Zero tolerance must be hammered home’
THE Bahamas National Trust yesterday criticised Norwegian Cruise Lines for violating the country’s environmental laws after it was revealed the vessel had dumped waste into Bahamian waters.
‘Make killers pay victims’ families’
KHANDI Gibson, founder and president of the local advocacy group Families of All Murder Victims (FOAM), wants the government to enforce legislation that would ensure that perpetrators are responsible for supporting the families of victims affected by their acts of violence.
Marijuana move ends ‘Rasta persecution’
MEMBERS of the Rastafarian community yesterday praised the recommendations made by the Bahamas National Commission on Marijuana to have the drug legalised as a sacrament for Rastafarians, noting the move as a step in the right direction.
Next stop’s court for plastic ban offenders
RETAILERS who fail to comply with the 25 cent per plastic bag charge could be given a notice to appear in court, according to a representative of the Ministry of Environment and Housing.
Bain still setting the pace at Lumberjacks
Months after he garnered the attention of the college basketball world and brought awareness to The Bahamas’ post Dorian restoration efforts with his late game heroics, Nathan Bain continues to be a leading playmaker for the Stephen F Austin Lumberja
Hield on road to Oympics
CARL Hield’s road to the 2020 Olympic Games will begin with his participation in a tune-up tournament in Pennsylvania this weekend.Hield, the country’s top amateur boxer, is looking forward to making the Bahamas team that will compete in Tokyo, Japan
The politics of pandering
Very conscious that the FNM are gearing up for an election? FNM are finally going to hold their long overdue Convention we have to look and understand why Minnis is pushing certain issues.
Pimps in pulpits
I write this article with the intent and objective to inform and educate my readers concerning the gross misconduct of false clergymen.
Red Alert: SAC teams feature in all four division championships
The Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools completed their sudden death semi-finals yesterday at the Anatol Rodgers Gymnasium and the championship matchups are set for next week’s final. The best-of-three championship series in all div
Timberwolves girls are history makers
The Anatol Rodgers Timberwolves advanced to the Senior Girls GSSSA Championship series for the first time in school history. The T’Wolves closed out the best-of-three semifinal series with a 39-29 win over the CV Bethel Stingrays last night at the A
Russell makes a strong start with Royals
Rio Russell is off to a fast start in his senior season with the Warner University Royals baseball programme. Russell went 2-4 and drove in four RBI in the Royals’ season opener, an 8-6 loss to the NAIA No.16 ranked Webber International University W
Investigator denies claim about falsifying evidence
A SENIOR crime scene investigator yesterday denied a defence attorney’s assertions that he “deliberately falsified” evidence that would ultimately be used in the trial of three men accused of the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting.Inspector Lavardo Sherman
The high cost of Bahamas life
An international report places The Bahamas as Number six as the most expensive places to live. Is it equitable - fair?
Children's home getting closer to reopening
Grand Bahama Children’s Village is undergoing hurricane repairs and expects to reopen soon so that resident children can return home to Freeport from New Providence. The children and teens - who are considered wards of the state - were evacuated to
Scott heads list of newly appointed QCs
GOVERNMENT has announced the appointment of five new Queen’s Counsel, including lawyer Michael Scott, Grand Lucayan’s chairman. The remaining appointees include lawyers Cedric Parker, Jean Ferron Bethell, Krystal Rolle and John Wilson. They can now
DIANE PHILLIPS: Can’t Grand Bahama ever catch a break?
What happens in and to Grand Bahama transcends partisan politics and for nearly two decades has challenged every administration in office. What was once proudly deemed The Bahamas’ Second City, was founded in mid-last century as a planned resort, a glamorous casino a magnet.
The saga of marijuana
The Bahamas marijuana commission deliberated for more than a year to determine the way forward on marijuana only to present the Prime Minister with an incomplete report.
Dysfunctional relationships
Truth be told the vast majority of Bahamian relationships are dysfunctional.
Ministerial travel
Ministerial travel…not a problem with increase except the $650.00 a head for American Eagle Club which could cause a $40,000.00 pa cost…except PM - DPM.
THE PRESS BOX: Memorialising Mamba
As “Kobe” fans world wide, still try to come to grips with his passing. A public memorial for the victims of the Jan. 26 helicopter crash that killed nine people, including Kobe and his daughter Gianna ‘Mambacita’ Bryant, reportedly will be held on
Gardiner to the fore
The top scorer from the Financial Bowling League competition last night was Clayton Gardiner of Leno Corporate Services with a 565 high three-game series. The runner-up was Charles ‘CQ’ Johnson of Moonlight Strikers with a 531-second high set. Teamma
The Hidden Word
Psalm 119:11 (NIV) says: “I have hidden your word in my heart.” What does it mean to hide something in one’s heart?
Discord and lack of unity
Few things can disrupt the smooth and orderly flow of events more than where there is discord and absence of unity within a group, association, household, political party, church or business organisation.
Eleuthera woman shares her ‘Know Your Worth’ ministry
Island girl LaTanya Renee Maynard may have left her beloved Eletheura behind to relocate to Florida, but she is still passionate about sharing her Know Your Worth Ministries and apparel line with her fellow Bahamians.
Young believer-turned-author hopes to bring youth to God
In a time where many millennials and Generation Z kids have lost interest in the Church and God, Tomia Shearer is a young voice calling on her peers to share in her faith.
ACM branch to be created at St Christopher’s
The Anglican Church Men (ACM) Council and members recently visited St Christopher’s Anglican Church with the intention to form an ACM branch in that parish.
Rental rate concerns for Abaco business revival
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said there were “no locations” where willing businesses can reopen, adding that landlords were “totally out of line” over the rents they are seeking. Ken Hutton told Tribune Business that the “biggest
Law firm wins honour for 2nd year running
A Grand Bahama-based law firm says it has been named as the Commercial Litigation Firm of the Year in The Bahamas for the second consecutive year.ParrisWhittaker, in a statement issued yesterday, said the designation has come from Global Law Experts
Works minister: 'Public has right' to expect more'
A Cabinet minister has called upon his ministry’s staff to be more “proactive” in 2020, adding: “The public has a right to expect more from us.”Desmond Bannister, minister of works, in his annual New Year’s charge to staff, urged them to take the ini
National Trust: Cruise industry 'must get message' over waste
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) yesterday said the cruise ship industry “must get the message that poor practices that damage our environment cannot be tolerated”. Eric Carey, its executive director, in a statement urged the government to release i
Commission 'underplays' industrial hemp potential
The National Commission on Marijuana has “really underplayed” the potential economic impact of industrial hemp, an advocate for the drug’s legalisation charged yesterday. Terry Miller, head of the Bahamas Cannabis Research Institute (BACARI), veheme
Thursday, February 6
EDITORIAL: Still matters to consider over marijuana
AT long last, the report of the commission tasked with considering changes to our laws on marijuana has been tabled in Parliament.
STATESIDE: Better than Broadway - and, for once, the lead actor didn’t fluff his lines
Tuesday’s State of the Union speech by US President Donald Trump was worth watching. But not really for anything that was said. It became compelling political theatre for what wasn’t said.
Every day, life is still a struggle for the people of Abaco
FOR Abaco residents who are trying to regroup after Hurricane Dorian, many are questioning when their lives will return to normal. Nearly six months after the Category Five storm hit the island, debris still extends for kilometres in some parts of th
Cooper attacks employment policy at Pointe
THE Pointe is one of the most egregious examples of this country failing to protect Bahamian employment in the construction sector, Progressive Liberal Party leader Chester Cooper said yesterday.The Heads of Agreement for the project was negotiated a
WSC rejects all complaints from union
Last night, The Water and Sewerage Corporation fired back at what it saw as a “sudden, ill-advised and unreasonable press conference held by Dwayne Woods”.
We'll shut you down, threatens Woods
BAHAMAS Utilities Service and Allied Workers Union (BUWASU) President Dwayne Woods “threatened a total shut down” yesterday as he accused Water & Sewerage Corporation (WSC) executives of attempting to decrease the union’s influence by rolling back a number of benefits.
UTEB boss complains of union busting tactics
DANIEL Thompson, president of the Union of Tertiary Educators of the Bahamas, claimed the union busting tactics carried out by employers in the country proves there is a general disregard by management for their workers. Mr Thompson made the comment
Rapid response team set to react to virus threats
CONTACT tracing would be a key part of healthcare work if there is a suspected, probable or confirmed case of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus in The Bahamas, according to a draft of the Ministry of Health’s preparedness and response plan for the virus.The
Guilty of killing his godmother
A Supreme Court jury yesterday returned a unanimous guilty verdict for Dwayne Belizaire for strangling his 49-year-old godmother and leaving her dead in a bathtub.
Govt halts Nassau Flight Services sale
The government’s decision not to proceed with the Nassau Flight Services (NFS) privatisation is no reflection on the two final bidders’ quality, a top aviation official revealed yesterday. Algernon Cargill, director of aviation, confirmed to Tribune
'Don't become paralysed' by financial sector attrition
The Bahamas “must not become paralysed” by continuing financial services industry attrition, an ex-attorney general warned yesterday, urging to it instead rapidly “re-engineer” the sector. Alfred Sears QC, pictured, acknowledged to Tribune Business
Activist demands 'action, not talk' on cruise ships
The government’s renewed pledge to crack down on cruise ship dumping in Bahamian waters was yesterday branded by an environmental activist as “more hot air until we see some real action”.
'Separate zoning' for hemp, medical marijuana strains
The Bahamas must zone “separate regions” for industrial hemp and medical marijuana to avoid “cross-pollination” and ensure both become sustainable industries.The Bahamas National Commission on Marijuana’s preliminary report, tabled in the House of As
Bank contraction threatens 'way of life' for Bahamas
The opposition’s shadow finance minister yesterday warned the “way of life for many Bahamians is under threat” to the continual loss of institutions and jobs in the financial services industry.Chester Cooper, the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) dep
Marijuana report puts no limit on medical use
PEOPLE prescribed cannabis for medical purposes will have unlimited potential to grow plants to meet their needs if the Bahamas National Commission on Marijuana has its way.
Second sex assault during home raid
A WOMAN in New Providence was sexually assaulted on Tuesday night during a home invasion in Coral Harbour.
Norwegian admits dumping in ocean
THE government is clamping down on cruise ships operating in Bahamian waters, with Transport Minister Renward Wells declaring yesterday discharges at sea will not be tolerated.
Court audit uncovered payments changes
AN Auditor General’s report into the Magistrate’s Court has exposed instances of cashiers allegedly altering payment receipts and nearly two dozen missing cheques.
Last chance to appeal jail sentence
A man currently serving half a century in prison for seducing a Burger King manager in an unsuccessful bid to rob the restaurant before stabbing the man to death will have one last chance at overturning his sentence next month. Simeon Bain is seekin
The accused didn't call for help, didn't go to the police - they went for drinks, claims attorney who says they should be found guilty of murder
A prosecutor yesterday urged jurors to convict two women accused of murdering teenage mother Breanna Mackey two years ago, asserting the pair valued rolling with their “crew” above distancing themselves from the girl’s attackers.Attorney Cassie Bethe
Philanthropists donate tablets to primary school
TEXAN philanthropists Carl and Gigi Allen, the owners of Walker’s Cay, recently presented tablets to students at the Freeport Primary School. The donation is part of a memorandum of understanding forged last year with the Ministry of Education. The
Wrong to say rape is impossible in marriage
House Speaker Halson Moultrie stirred up a hornet’s nest while commenting on a report titled: “The Criminalisation of Marital Rape and Intimate Partner Sexual Violence Across the Commonwealth”.
Pelosi a hypocrite
Since Donald Trump became President he has not received a lot of benefits from the Liberal Media. It has been a constant barrage of negatives comments by almost every TV News Anchor from Norah O’ Donnell, Lester Holt and even people like F Chuck Todd and even George Stephanopoulos.
Isnord takes Prague chance
Wilkenson “Kenny” Isnord is set for a new opportunity to continue his basketball career in Europe through the Raw Talent Elite organisation.
Final line-ups set for GSSSA championships
The Government Secondary School Sports Association basketball championship series are set in three four divisions after the top seeds swept their best of three semifinal series.
Thompsons pay surprise visit to see students
The Thompson Family Foundation continues its community outreach efforts in The Bahamas with a surprise visit to Claridge Primary School.
Ayton rises to occasion but Suns eclipsed by Pistons
Andre Drummond had 31 points and 19 rebounds, and the Detroit Pistons handed the Phoenix Suns their fourth straight loss, 116-108 on Wednesday night.
Starting with a bang
Dwight Coleby and Zane Knowles have made immediate impacts with their new clubs while others produced impressive stat lines this week to highlight performances from Bahamian pro basketball players in European and Asian leagues.
'Regional unity' urged over financial services
The opposition’s shadow finance minister yesterday urged “regional regulators to unite” and ensure external forces play no role in “determining the fate of our local banking systems”. Chester Cooper, pictured , also deputy leader of the Progressive
Foundation raises $75,000 for Fyre Festival's victims
An Exuma-based foundation yesterday said its Global GoFundme campaign has raised $75,300 to ease the pain of Fyre Festival victims. The Exuma Foundation, in a statement, said: “Many Bahamians took a financial hit from the festival, either through un
Govt moves over EU fund concerns
Legal reforms debated in Parliament yesterday are designed to “address concerns” preventing the European Union (EU) from fully accepting The Bahamas’ investment funds regulatory regime. Ellsworth Johnson, minister of financial services, trade and in
Financial provider to unveil new $25m corporate office
The prime minister will attend Monday’s groundbreaking for the Leno Group’s new $25m corporate head office at the top of Collins Avenue’s hill. Designed by Bahamian architect, Wellington Woods, the five-storey glass and steel building will enable th
ART OF GRAPHIX: Getting animated over movement
Whether it is movies, cartoons, short films or advertisements, humans love watching animated characters on screen. Animation creates an entirely different world for the viewers. But do you realise how much work goes into creating these animation film
Telecoms auditor touts 12-25% client savings
A telecommunications audit specialist says its recommendations can often help Bahamians companies slash their monthly phone bill by between 12-25 percent.“Many businesses tend to accept utility bills as they come, assuming there’s nothing they can do
Port Authority adds to corporate affairs
The Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) affiliate, Port Group Ltd, yesterday announced the appointment of Glendia Sweeting as its manager of group corporate affairs. Philcher Grant, Port Group Ltd’s director of group corporate affairs and governmen
Wednesday, February 5
EDITORIAL: Marital rape law? Don’t expect anyone to rush
WHATEVER your viewpoint on the issue of marital rape – freshly in the headlines after Speaker Halson Moultrie opened his mouth on the subject and put his foot squarely in it – let’s be clear about one thing: Nothing’s going to change in a hurry.
ALICIA WALLACE: Forget the game - there’s so much to talk about in that half-time show
Super Bowl LIV has come and gone, the Kansas Chiefs celebrating their win over the San Francisco 49ers. Conversation continues about the televised event with focus on at least four areas – the US president’s tweet placing the team in the state of Kansas when it is actually in Missouri, boring commercials, Jay Z and Beyonce sitting during the national anthem - and the half-time show. As always, people have a lot to say about the latter. Shakira and Jennifer Lopez, Latina performers known for both singing and dancing, shared a stage for the first time.
'Leadership of Dorian reconstruction a mess'
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis was critical yesterday of two government bodies set up to handle relief and reconstruction in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. A “mess” was how Mr Davis described the leadership of Iram Lewis,
March 1 deadline for asset disclosures
THE Public Disclosure Commission has sent notices to all Members of Parliament and senators as the deadline for declarations approaches. MPs and those in the Senate are expected to submit documents disclosing their assets by March 1. According to P
Acting commander says RBDF doing 'tremendous work'
WHILE remaining quiet yesterday on Tellis Bethel’s extended leave from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Acting RBDF Commander Raymond King insisted the force has been doing “tremendous work” in his absence. Speaking at the RBDF’s media meet and gree
RBDF set to deal with any health incidents
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force officials will follow the Ministry of Health’s protocols and have an operational plan for effectively dealing with any potential incidents of the coronavirus. Speaking at the RBDF’s media meet and greet event yesterday, A
Dorian victims receive nearly $2m in benefits
STATE Minister for Grand Bahama Senator Kwasi Thompson said yesterday the government has paid out nearly $2m in unemployment benefits to hurricane victims in Grand Bahama since Hurricane Dorian. The revelation came as the state minister was giving a
Government House security review completed, says Dames
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames confirmed yesterday that the review committee tasked with investigating the security issues at Government House following the murder of Petty Officer Percival Philip Perpall has completed its investigation. “T
‘ALL HOMES MUST HAVE INSURANCE’: Leading insurer warns mandatory cover has to be on agenda after Dorian
Bahamas First's chief executive yesterday said laws making it mandatory for all business and residential property owners to have full catastrophic insurance cover "must be on the table for discussion".
Bahamas rejects IMF's $200m Dorian offering
The Bahamas will not be taking up the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) offer of up to $200m in concessionary funding for Hurricane Dorian recovery, the deputy prime minister confirmed last night.K Peter Turnquest told Tribune Business via a messag
Economy fears: Bahamas ranked world's sixth most expensive state
The Bahamas’ ranking as the world’s sixth most expensive nation to live in highlights “a fundamental challenge related to the country’s economic viability”, it was argued last night. Matt Aubry, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (ORG) ex
'Don't cry over spilt milk': Exit of Julius Baer
The Bahamas must “not cry over spilt milk” due to Julius Baer’s imminent exit, a former attorney general warned yesterday, and should instead focus on remaining “relevant” as a financial centre. John Delaney, principal of the Delaney Partners law fi
Loan arrears fall $125m in 2019 to decade-low
Total loan arrears fell by $123.5m or 15 percent during 2019 to hit their lowest level for a decade at year-end, a Central Bank of The Bahamas presentation has revealed.The monetary policy regulator, unveiling the status of credit quality within the
Two Breanna accused stay silent
TWO women opted to remain silent yesterday to allegations that two years ago they murdered teenage mother Breanna Mackey in an argument over an $80 smartphone.
VIDEO: Burglars target eastern estates
RESIDENTS in eastern gated communities have had their sense of safety disrupted by a string of home burglaries.
Marital rape not priority for PLP
Progressive Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday said he could not commit his party to prioritising the issue of marital rape if it takes office in 2022.
Virus quarantine number now at 10
THE number of Bahamians in quarantine for signs related to the deadly coronavirus has increased to 10, according to local health officials. However, there are still no suspected or confirmed cases of the illness locally.
Accused charged with murder after man shot
A man was charged with attempted murder and firearm possession in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Nigel Forbes, 42, of No 16 Bradfield Lane, was charged with attempted murder and three counts of possession of a firearm with intent to put
Lawyer urges jurors to clear man of Valentine's Day killing
THE lawyer for a man accused of killing his godmother on Valentine's Day three years ago in Grand Bahama urged jurors not to convict him, saying police investigations were not thorough.
Prison officer denies making fake sick claims
A prison officer was remanded to his place of employment yesterday after denying allegations he defrauded the government of over $2,000 via a fake sick slip scheme three years ago. Alexander Cortez Burrows entered not guilty pleas to allegations he
GSSSA teams through to final
CHAD Smith struggled with his shot all game until he got open with just seconds left on to the clock to nail a three-pointer to lift the CI Gibson Rattlers past the Anatol Rodgers Timberwolves 70-69.
Giants at the double
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants and the Your Essential Store Giants won the New Providence Basketball Association’s doubleheader on Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium. In the division one feature contest, the Giants knocked off the Abaco Strong
Poems which sum up my life on this lovely island
Please a little space in your paper to allow me to commend the people of your little nation of nations via your newspaper regarding my experience in The Bahamas.
Don't hide the crime
The policy of the Minnis government to expunge criminal records for what could be described as ‘minor – not serious crimes’ – raises a serious issue of rights of an Employer and right of foreign governments to know if that person applying for employment or a VISA or Residence has been sentenced by a Court of the Bahamas?
Too quick to get rid of Shenique
The abrupt termination of veteran journalist and host of The Conversation at ZNS, Shenique Miller, is being labelled political victimisation by Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) supporters.
Slatter shines as Telco claim triumph
THE most valuable player (MVP) from the City Bowling League competition on Monday night was David Slatter of the Telco Enterprises with a 615 high three-game series. The runner-up was Edmund Deal of the Bahamasair Flyers with a 611-second high se
Disney targets Lighthouse Point work start for 2020
Disney Cruise Line yesterday said it is hoping to begin construction work on its Lighthouse Point destination this year, and is targeting late 2022-early 2023 for the project to become operational. Kim Prunty, vice-president of Disney Cruise Line, t
Minister hails Atlantis owner's reinvest plan
A Cabinet minister yesterday hailed planned reinvestment in Atlantis by its owner as “welcome news” after it abandoned efforts to sell the Paradise Island-based destination resort. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister for tourism and aviation, said there was
Bank: 'No truth' to lay-off, closure talk
A Bahamas-based financial services provider yesterday said it plans to hire extra staff within the next few months as its restructuring nears an end. Marco Netzer, Private Investment Bank’s vice chairman, dismissed financial services industry talk t
Minister: Hutchison 'will not rebuild' GB airport
A Cabinet minister yesterday confirmed that Hutchison Ports Holdings had indicated it will “not rebuild” the parts of Grand Bahama International Airport that were devastated by Hurricane Dorian. Senator Kwasi Thompson, minister of state for Grand Ba
Bahamas gains 'massive visibility' from mall show
The Bahamas has gained “massive visibility and exposure” through being promoted to thousands of shoppers at one of south Florida’s largest malls. This nation has “dominated” the Sawgrass Mills complex since January 16, and shoppers have one final we
Tuesday, February 4
EDITORIAL: Brookfield here to stay – so work together for a brighter future
THE future of Atlantis has been up in the air for a long time – but now it is off the market.
PETER YOUNG: And finally . . . let’s not look back in anger
Well, folks, it has actually happened. Britain left the European Union on January 31. This has created enormous attention and extensive international media coverage and there have been huge celebrations in London and elsewhere in the country. It has been described in Britain as the most significant moment in the nation’s modern history.
Bishop Hall backs PM's stance on expunging criminal records for minor offences
BISHOP Simeon Hall said he supports the prime minister’s stance on expunging records for people convicted of minor offences, stating yesterday everyone deserves a “second chance”.Bishop Hall spoke a day after Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis told The
Remains of another two people found on Grand Bahama
POLICE in Grand Bahama are continuing their search for missing storm victims after the human remains of two people were recently discovered on the island. According to Superintendent Brian Rolle, head of Grand Bahama’s Central Detective Unit, office
Activists calling on Disney to help create 'sustainable alternative' to private port
ORGANISERS of the Last Chance for Lighthouse Point campaign are calling on Disney Cruise Line to collaborate with local non-profit organisations to create a “sustainable alternative” to its private cruise port that would protect the environment and b
Officials target mid-Feb for Grand Lucayan sale
OFFICIALS are eyeing a mid-February deadline for the completion of the sale of the Grand Lucayan resort in Grand Bahama. According to Michael Scott, chairman of government’s special purpose vehicle that owns the resort, the agreement on the final tr
Virus rumours hit restaurant trade
CHINESE restaurants have experienced a drop in business which they attribute to rumours about the coronavirus, according to Brian Wong, president of the Chinese Community Association of The Bahamas. He said yesterday: “The rumour I heard is, ‘don’t
Sands says Hanna Martin claims 'unfair'
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands called Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin’s recent claims of people being denied healthcare “unfair”. On Sunday, Ms Hanna Martin issued a statement noting she has heard “more and more personal accounts” from people in d
FACE TO FACE: A rollercoaster ride of fame, despair and finally salvation
The year was 1973 – the glorious year of Independence for The Bahamas. There was a lot to be proud of. There was such a sense of pride in being Bahamian; having a flag of our own, a national anthem and a pledge. The people of The Bahamas were committed to moving forward, upward and onward together. Bahamians were making their presence felt in the world in many disciplines; among them - athletics.
ATLANTIS SALE IS ABANDONED: Owners take resort off the market and now plan to reinvest
Atlantis will not be sold "at this time", it was revealed last night, with its owner instead deciding to unleash a "significant" three-year investment strategy despite receiving multiple offers.
Central Bank raises growth forecast to 'flat'
The Bahamas’ 2020 economic growth prospects have improved to “flat”, it was revealed yesterday, with the Central Bank less certain that this nation will suffer a minor contraction. John Rolle, its governor, said it “doesn’t want to be wedded to a nu
$2m lighthouse project aiming to 'energise' PI
A Bahamian entrepreneur yesterday voiced optimism that his planned $2m transformation of Paradise Island’s western tip will “energise the restoration of other historical sites” throughout this nation.Toby Smith, principal of Paradise Island Lighthous
'Be sceptical' of all sides on free trade
An international trade attorney says that The Bahamas will “definitely” have to slash its average Customs duty rate in half if it continues to pursue full World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) membership. Paul Lalonde, partner and head of international t
30 jobs lost as Julius Baer closes
A major Swiss-owned financial institution yesterday revealed the closure of its Bahamas business with the loss of 30 jobs in the latest blow for the financial services industry.
Staff fume at salaries change
The hotel union yesterday warned "another fight" is brewing over the decision by Atlantis to switch from a weekly to bi-weekly staff payroll, a top official saying: "It's not sitting well."
Embassy rejects virus travel ban
HAIGANG Yin, the Chinese charge d’affaires to The Bahamas, said China does not support the travel restrictions The Bahamas and other countries have implemented to combat the spread of the new coronavirus, insisting his country has the disease under control.
Officer sues over Exuma assault case
THE senior police officer who allegedly punched two women in an incident in Exuma that went viral on social media last year is suing the government for “unlawfully” interdicting him for offences he claims he did not commit.
Davis perfect from three-point range
Radshad Davis continues to set milestones in his senior season of collegiate basketball and had a career best shooting percentage from beyond the arch.Davis finished with 15 points and was a perfect 4-4 from three point range in a 68-54 win for his T
5-for-5 as Clarke sees Da Boyz to victory
The Masters Softball League continued its regular season action over the weekend at the Archdeacon William Thompson Softball Park at the Southern Recreation Grounds. Here’s a look at the summaries of the games played: Da Boyz 35, Corner Boys 8: Win
Tributes to athlete Jonique after two-year battle with lupus
HUNDREDS turned out to pay their last respects to the late Jonique Elizabeth Webb. Although she was not one of the countries more prolific athletes, Webb had a promising career that was cut short after she was diagnosed two years ago with lupus. Bu
Accused can't explain how DNA was found near victim's home
DWYANE Belizaire yesterday vehemently denied murdering his godmother but could not explain how his DNA was found under her fingernails and inside a condom police found in bushes behind the the victim’s home. Belizaire, 33, took the stand yesterday m
Wendy Hanna-Darling remembered
WENDY Hanna-Darling, best described as a mother of firstborn sons, was remembered by her family and friends following her passing in Houston, Texas on Sunday, January 26 in Houston, Texas. Hanna-Darling, 66, was the aunt of Frank Rutherford, the fir
Crime scene may have been tampered with after Fox Hill mass shootings, court is told
THE attorney for one of three men charged in connection with the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting yesterday asserted that the scene of the crime was tampered with before investigators could process it. Geoffrey Farquharson, attorney for Justin Williams,
Bahamasair explains its mechanical troubles
RECENT Bahamasair mechanical troubles were due to issues with the landing gear, a fuel pump, and loading on several planes, said the airline’s managing director Tracy Cooper. In a press statement released on Friday, the airline informed customers of
Watch for fake news
The Bahamas’ very own Muhammadan apologist, The Graduate, has fallen into the same egregious error as former US President George W Bush, when he mischaracterised Islam, the second largest religion in the world, as a religion of peace.
Our PM has done nothing spectacular since the start
The Most Honourable Prime Minister has announced the launching of the FNM’s campaign for re-election.
Murray and Simmons join Fighting Knights
Following a short stint in the minor leagues, a pair of Bahamian players are getting their opportunity at collegiate baseball with the Lynn University Fighting Knights. Byron Murray and Kyle Simmons have helped Lynn to a 2-0-1 record early in Sunshi
Sailor in the spotlight
Joshua A Weech began sailing in January of 2015 at age 9. His older brother, then age 12 was already sailing so Joshua was around the Nassau Yacht Club whenever his brother had sailing. Joshua expressed an interest in starting and the rest is history
Bahamians on the court as tennis players shine
A number of Bahamian female tennis players participated for their respective colleges and university tennis teams over the weekend in the United States. At Lee University, Sierra Donaldson made her season’s debut as the Flames women’s tennis team de
The frustration and pain of recurrent urinary tract infections
Far too many Bahamians live their lives in misery and utter frustration as they deal with recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bahamian women in particular are prone to suffer from urinary tract infections due to the female anatomy and menopause.
Fairytale success for Super Bowl winner
A PROUD Bahamian mother watched as her son completed a fairytale journey on Sunday - becoming a Super Bowl winner at the same stadium where he used to serve beers and pizzas. Laurie Fenton watched as her son, Rashad Fenton, played as a cornerback for
Second defeat for Bahamas in Davis Cup contest
The Bahamas two-member team of Dentry Mortimer Jr and Anthony Burrows Jr suffered their second consecutive loss at the Junior Davis Cup competition in El Salvador. The team, coached by Jared Turnquest, lost to El Salvador on Monday. Both Mortimer Jr
Mingoes hit rivals for six
The University of The Bahamas Mingoes won six events at the 17th Star Performers Track and Field Classic over the weekend to open local competition.
How the Lamaze method helps you during childbirth
The process of giving birth is a miraculous one. However, with so much information floating around, it can also be a nerve-wracking, anxiety-ridden time. To make things a bit easier, a local licenced educator recommends couples attending Lamaze classes.
Embracing the all-natural you
There are two positive trends that Morgan Pearson follows when it comes to both her personal and professional life: the organic movement and the increased embracing of natural hair within the black community.
BTVI exchange programme ignites a fire in Edwinique
“When I came to BTVI, I never once imagined that this would’ve been the gateway God used to let my desires come to fruition.”
LIFE LINES: Technology, like medicine, has side effects
Technology – a blessing and sometimes a curse. The worldwide web, the internet and a plethora of social media are firmly entrenched in our daily lives. There is now a generation which knows nothing of a life without social media. In 1990/91 the worldwide web was born, and although universal usage is a mere 20 or so years old and still growing exponentially, we rarely stop to think about a downside and yet there are significant signs that there are many relating to our emotional well-being and personal relationships.
How safe are your cosmetics?
On average a woman uses about 12 to 25 different cosmetics a day and applies more than 200 chemicals to her body in the process.
Make sure to do this before you start your health and fitness journey
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
Learning to love the skin you’re in
As someone with sensitive skin, Mechelle McDonald-Sweeting has been through many moments of trial and error in an effort to understand what works well for her skin and what doesn’t.
Event to put Bahamas 'on the yachting map'
The first Bahamas Charter Show is aiming to “put this nation on the yachting map”, it was revealed yesterday, with more 20 boats and 80 registered brokers already registered to attend. Dr Kenneth Romer, the Ministry of Tourism’s executive director o
First MSC graduate joins cruise vessel
The first of 220 Grand Bahamians training to work on Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) cruise ships has taken his post after the vessel docked in Freeport Harbour. The MSC Divina welcomed Raymond Campbell to its crew last Tuesday as part of the M
Renewable provider in energy efficiency drive
A Bahamian renewable provider is providing energy savings upgrades to both local resorts and government health clinics, while aiding efforts to make the country more resilient post-Dorian.Greg Uptagrafft, PowerPlus Bahamas’ principal, said: “Because
Monday, February 3
EDITORIAL: What happens after the sentence is served?
WHAT do we do to turn the lives around of offenders once the gates of Fox Hill Prison close behind them?
$1m of school repairs in Grand Bahama to begin soon
EDUCATION Minister Jeffrey Lloyd announced on Friday about $m of school repairs will start soon at the Hugh Campbell Primary in Grand Bahama.
Fake lawyer reprimanded for claims based on ‘dishonesty’
THE Court of Appeal has chastised a fake attorney for asking it to dismiss the Bahamas Bar Council’s attempts to overturn a judge’s order that he be given legal credentials, when that very order was based on his own “dishonesty”.
MP's firm misses chance to overturn its eviction
FOX Hill MP Shonel Ferguson’s investment company has squandered a chance at having the Privy Council overturn its eviction from a building it never paid real property taxes on since assuming responsibility for it some 13 years ago.
INSIGHT: Setting sail to raise the alarm on climate change
Bahamian biologist O’neil Leadon is set to sail across the Atlantic and embark on a tour through Europe to participate in the United Nations Climate Change Conference (SB52).
INSIGHT: Why do we only pick on Carnival when it comes to pollution on the seas?
I have been an ardent environmental and human rights advocate since I could reason.
INSIGHT: Kobe was delivering in his greatest and most important role - as a father
LAST Sunday, just over 2,500 miles away, The Bahamas felt like it lost one of its own with the passing of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. Los Angeles, the state of California, America and beyond have been grieving since the news broke of his death, along with eight other people, including his young daughter and basketball prodigy, Gianna. Even in our tiny archipelago, far away, Bahamians who grew up watching the basketball wizardry any time number eight, and then number 24, stepped on the hardwood, were heartbroken.
$188m SOE subsidy 'definition of insanity'
The government is awaiting “imminent” receipt of a study on how to “optimise” the loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) responsible for virtually its entire first half $188m fiscal deficit.
Polymers lays-off 11 as plastics ban bites
Polymers International last night confirmed it had terminated 11 employees due to “reduced demand” for its products as a result of the growing global ban on Styrofoam and single-use plastics. Greg Ebelhar, the Freeport-based manufacturer’s chief ope
DRILLING ON OFFSHORE PLATFORM IMMINENT
A Bahamas-based oil explorer yesterday said it is “ready to deliver” on a 14 year-old promise after confirming it will drill its first exploratory well in Bahamian waters in April 2020.
Minister 'won't intervene' on Compass Point issue
Compass Point’s owner has been urged to resolve his hotel licensing grievances with the regulator, a Cabinet minister saying: “This is not a case where I can intervene.” Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune Business tha
Valley’s members support boycott
VALLEY Boys Chairman Brian Adderley yesterday said the majority of the group’s members are in support of its decision to leave the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence (JCNP), with their focus now on “moving in a new direction”.
PM seeking ‘clean slate’ for offenders: Minnis wants minor criminals released to fresh start in life
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis wants a “complete overhaul of the rehabilitation process” for prisoners, declaring yesterday too many people have been deprived of their freedom and future.
China virus - nine now placed in quarantine
A PRIVATE plane carrying 14 people from China was denied entry to The Bahamas because of travel restrictions designed to fend off the fast-spreading coronavirus, which has killed more than 300 people.
Shenique hits out after ZNS dismissal
SHENIQUE Miller, host of the daytime talk show The Conversation, is disappointed ZNS has terminated her contract after what she says is the huge success of the show.
Build for future
The threat that climate change poses is existential.
Lies in OAS contest: sifting the wheat from the chaff
IF EVER there was a time in global politics when governments did not indulge in deliberately and maliciously running smear campaigns against candidates they oppose for international positions, it has now passed.
Time to shuffle the FNM pack
If the FNM were a four-cylinder motor engine it would be firing on two cylinders and with fits and starts of misfiring at that. A major problem in our wonderful nation. as it relates to politics is that if one were to critique something that a party or its leader may do or say, others who should know better tend to accuse that detractor of being an enemy of the nation, God forbid, or the party itself.
Gaither shines in Houston meet
It was another successful weekend for a number of Bahamians, representing their respective college and university track and field teams at various meets around the United States.
Mahomes, Chiefs win Super Bowl with late surge
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Uncomfortable and under duress for much of the game, Patrick Mahomes suddenly recaptured his mojo and lifted Andy Reid and the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory, the team's first NFL championship in a half-century.
Boldly going out to set records at Star Trackers
THERE were qualifying performances for the Carifta Games and a number of meet records set as the Star Trackers Track Club hosted their 27th Star Performers Track Classic on Saturday at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.
Triumph for Saints and Destroyers
The New Providence Women’s Basketball Association continued its regular season action at the DW Davis Gymnasium on Saturday night with a double header on tap.
Hield and Ayton set for All-Star Weekend
For the second time in as many years, the Bahamas will have a strong presence at NBA All-Star Weekend with both Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton were selected to participate in the league’s midseason celebration.
Superhuman effort as Roker leads his X-Men to victory
Azaro Roker continues to post conference leading numbers in the Atlantic University Sport and led his St Francis Xavier X-Men to a crucial win to move into second place as the regular season winds down.
Athletics to take centre stage with GSSSA meet
The Government Secondary School Sports Association is already looking ahead to the next sport on its calendar as athletics prepares to take centre stage.
Mingoes hold off fightback
The University of the Bahamas Mingoes led the Leno Regulators by as much as 28 points, but in the fourth quarter of their New Providence Basketball Association’s division one match-up on Friday night, UB almost let the Regulators back in the game.
Caribbean AG tells Bahamas: 'get into the digital asset race'
A former Caribbean attorney general is urging The Bahamas to “get into that race” of digital currency regulation as a means to overcome its traditional challenges with economic scale.John McKendrick QC, Anguilla’s ex-top law enforcement officer, told
Disney unveils website for its Eleuthera project
Disney Cruise Line has unveiled a website dedicated to its Lighthouse Point project in a bid to keep Bahamians informed about progress on the Eleuthera-based destination. The website, www.DCLLighthousePoint.com, was designed by a Bahamian company, F
Internet gives 30% boost for Bahamian tourism forecasts
The Bahamian tourism industry’s ability to accurately predict visitor arrivals trends increases by 30 percent if it incorporates Internet search data into its forecasts, an IMF paper has revealed. The report Where should we go? Internet searches and
Sunday, February 2
Two dead after high speed chase with police
A POLICE chase ended in a car crash that killed two men on Saturday. Police said officers were acting on information shortly after 9pm when they visited the Golden Gates area and observed a silver car that was occupied by two men who were behaving suspiciously.
