Friday, January 31
Small Homes Repairs Programme launches on February 10
THE government will launch its Small Homes Repairs Programme on February 10 – in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian – and eligible residents will be able to apply, said the managing director of the Bahamas Disaster Reconstruction Authority.
Investigation launched into video of dance and provocative song at school pep rally
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd confirmed on Friday that an official investigation has been launched into a video involving school girls dancing to a provocative song at a public school pep rally.
Man critical after police shooting
A MAN is in critical condition after he was shot by police during a chase on Thursday evening.
Meteorologist says earthquake chance slim but possible
THE Bahamas is not in the zone for earthquakes, but according to a veteran meteorologist, one could occur even though it is uncommon.
Jamaican woman denies smuggling three women
A 29-year-old Jamaican woman was remanded to prison on Friday after denying allegations she smuggled three women into the country as a means to exploit them.
Man charged in connection with police involved shooting
A 26-year-old man was remanded to prison on Thursday in connection with a police involved shooting last year.
Coronavirus: Minister meets with families of Bahamians living in China
RELATIVES of Bahamians living in China met Health Minister Dr Duane Sands on Friday as some feared the Chinese border will soon close and they wanted their loved ones evacuated before then.
EDITORIAL: The Bahamas needs you to play your part
HOW concerned should you be about the coronavirus epidemic? The latest step in precautions to prevent the spread of the virus may seem drastic – a check on people coming to The Bahamas if they have been to China in the last 20 days – but the important word to bear in mind is that it is a precaution.
A COMIC'S VIEW: MAMBA OUT
I still haven’t wrapped my head around the untimely demise of my favourite basketball player ever, Kobe Bean Bryant, aka “The Black Mamba.”
PLAYING SAFE: Entry controls on anyone who visited China in last 20 days, Two local residents already in quarantine at undisclosed location
THE government has banned travel from China because of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus, the fast-spreading epidemic that has killed 171 people and infected thousands overseas.
We'll investigate missing money for nurses, says Sands
MINISTER of Health Dr Duane Sands is looking into the matter of some nurses not receiving their promised “scarcity allowance” on Wednesday.It was expected registered nurses and trained clinical nurses in the public health sector would receive $3,000
Man, 72, dies while diving
POLICE are investigating an alleged drowning that occurred in western New Providence on Wednesday. Police were told that shortly before noon, a 72-year-old foreign national was on a diving expedition in waters off western New Providence, when he los
$95m groundbreaking ceremony at university
GOVERNMENT and University of The Bahamas officials broke ground yesterday for a $95m university residence and multi-purpose complex project that they hope will boost the university and surrounding communities.The facility will include a 1,000-bed cap
$3m allocated to renovate LPIA fire station
MORE than $3m has been allocated for the renovation of the fire station at Lynden Pindling International Airport in order to keep up with international standards, according to Minister of Works Desmond Bannister. Yesterday during the contract signin
All Bahamasair planes now have correct navigation kits
ALL of Bahamasair’s planes are now equipped with the necessary navigational kits, as mandated by the United States’ Federal Aviation Administration, and are able to fly into the US without limitation.
Bannister signs $2m deal to build new glass bridge
MINISTER of Public Works Desmond Bannister signed a $2m engineering consultancy contract yesterday with Engineering Technical Services for the Glass Window Bridge in North Eleuthera.
Mother tells of her struggle to survive in virus-hit city
LUANETTEE Colebrooke, a Bahamian student living in Wuhan in China, is in survival mode following the outbreak of the deadly new coronavirus, which has now been declared a global health emergency.
Battle over The Pointe's Margaritaville heats up
Attorneys for Margaritaville’s Bahamian franchisee yesterday said 79 percent of the brand’s defenses have been dismissed as their bid to block its tie-up with the $250m Pointe project heats up. Todd Levine and Adam Steinberg, who are acting for Boss
$130m VAT increase allays fears over hike
The $130m year-over-year increase in first half VAT revenues proves that the 12 percent rate hike has “not dampened” consumer spending, a top Ministry of Finance official argued yesterday. Marlon Johnson, the Ministry of Finance’s acting financial s
Island Luck co-founder a 'fugitive', says judge
A federal judge has branded one of Island Luck's co-founders a "fugitive" from US justice in rejecting his bid to have near-decade old human smuggling charges thrown out.
$187m loss-makers match fiscal deficit
The $186.7m in subsidies to loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) over the six months to 2019 year-end almost exactly matches the government’s deficit for that period, it was revealed yesterday.The government’s “fiscal snapshot” for the first ha
Renewable fear over BPL bond
A union leader has voiced fears that Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) will be unable to meet repayments on its $580m bond as its largest, wealthiest customers race to adopt renewable energy.
Pair accused of stealing $233,000 from ATM outlets
A 30-year-old security guard was remanded to prison yesterday after denying allegations he used his job to steal $233,000 from multiple ATM machines over the last four months.Travis Seymour denied stealing $233,100 from five First Caribbean Internati
Trio accused of stealing
THREE men were charged in Freeport’s Magistrates Court yesterday for stealing. Jermaine Moxey, 43, of Watlins Road; Demri Charlton, 33, of Spoonhill Loop; and John Williams, 40, of Bass Lane were arraigned before Magistrate Charlton Smith on five c
Sex crime workshop looks at challenges of child abuse
A SEX crime workshop was held yesterday to address the challenges of child abuse and sexually-based crime in the Over-the-Hill area. The one-day forum, which was held by the Over-the-Hill Community Development Partnership at the Paul Farquharson Conf
So far, about 12 athletes qualified for CARIFTA Games
SO far, about 12 athletes have attained the qualifying standard for this year’s CARIFTA Games, scheduled for the Easter holiday weekend in Hamilton, Bermuda.Out of that number, nine have attained the standard in field events, four of whom are members
Stan Bethell, Camille Burnside bowling MVPS
TOP scorer in Financial Bowling League competition Wednesday night at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment was Stan Bethell of the Strike Force with a 244 high game and a 622 high three-game series. The runner-up was teammate Kevin B Williams
World Indoors postponed until 2021
The World Athletics announced yesterday that the 2020 World Athletics Indoor Championships, scheduled for Nanjing, China, March 13-15, has been postponed until 2021 because of the coronavirus.The World Athletics, headed by Lord Sebastian Coe, was for
Hanna named NEC Field Athlete of Week
BAHAMIAN junior thrower Tiffany Hanna (pictured right) has been named the Northeast Conference (NEC) Field Athlete of the Week for the third time this indoor season, the conference announced earlier this week.Hanna increased her grip on the league’s
New Birth hopes for spiritual awakening for ‘paralysed’ nation
NEW Birth Church members will kick off their 2020 Spiritual Awakening Crusade this Sunday, February 2, beginning 8am.
Priest inspires students to ‘keep the dream alive’
Rev Angela Bosfield Palacious recently encouraged students, staff and faculty of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) to keep their dreams alive even when they are deferred, as every part of the journey counts.
Meditation: Our gifts
This is the time in the Church’s year when we think of the journey of the wise men or magi to find the Christ child.
Lawyers fight over documents disclosure
ATTORNEYS representing the government in a judicial review centred on shanty town demolition have insisted the state “has nothing to hide” while asking the court to deny a request for numerous documents to be submitted, including those that could expose sensitive Cabinet discussions.
14 small businesses in Grand Bahama receive grant funds
FOURTEEN small businesses in Grand Bahama received grant funding yesterday to get them back on their feet and reopen following Hurricane Dorian. State Minister for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson said the grants were awarded in conjunction with the Smal
Open windows – A promise for new years and new seasons
Whenever a new year rolls in, we are bombarded with words of goodwill, resolution, all in preparation for what will happen during the fresh season that is upon us. Pastors, motivators, counsellors all echo the same sentiments in terms of meeting goals, changing behaviours, and affirming what is positive.
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
DIANE PHILLIPS: How many could have survived Dorian if they’d known how to swim?
The enormous economic toll of Hurricane Dorian continues to shake The Bahamas with Finance Minister Peter Turnquest this week confirming we were borrowing hundreds of millions more to help rebuild our devastated islands.
Another generation ruined
THE Marijuana Committee did not have to complete their report as it is or was obvious what was the intent of the Prime Minister a long time ago…decriminalise and further expunge any criminal record for the use of small amounts of marijuana. Ex Asst Commissioner McCartney and Bishop Emeritus Simeon Hall really wasted a lot of time and probably money and now imagine after the Report was presented to the PM the Committee is going to test the opinion of the people? Why didn’t you do that from the beginning? Surveys I have seen 70% are against this.
Hall playing interesting role yet again
Pastor Emeritus of New Covenant Baptist Church, Bishop Simeon Hall has played a massive role in two watershed events in recent Bahamian history.
Pleasing God
There are few issues that should be more important to us than wishing to please God, our Creator. This responsibility is even more important for Believers. None of us are without sin (Roman 3:23) but the Apostle Paul told us in 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV): “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
Buddy Hield: 'I want to continue to wear No.24 as a tribute' to Kobe
SEVERAL players have opted to change their jersey number from No.8 or No.24 to honour Kobe Bryant, but Buddy Hield has chosen to continue to wear No.24 as a tribune to the late NBA icon. Hield said that continuing to wear the number and compete at t
Bahamian players could suit up for team Britain at World Baseball Classic Qualifiers
BAHAMIAN baseball players have been on the roster for Great Britain at the last two editions of the World Baseball Classic Qualifiers and both sides look to continue that relationship at this year’s event. Teams, schedules and logistics for the 2021
Woman flourish in the Almighty’s presence at Church of God of Prophecy retreat
The word “retreat” signals a withdrawal from the chaotic clutter that 21st century lives have become, from the constant buzz of a world tugging at us for our attention, away even from the distraction of family and loved ones and womanly responsibilities – to a safe space for individual reflection, renewal and focus, for bonding with the like-minded, sharing and reconnecting.
Bahamian realtor hails 75th birthday
A well-known Bahamian real estate firm is celebrating its 75th anniversary thanks to its founder spotting the island’s second home potential just after the Second World War ended.Nick Damianos, a descendant of Greek immigrants who arrived in Nassau i
Bahamas featured at Lauderdale art show
The Bahamas was prominently featured at the four-day Art Fort Lauderdale fair, where one luxury home featured Junkanoo pieces and other cultural selections including music. The home designated “Bahamas Haus” was co-sponsored by the Ministry of Touri
Consumers urged: Take charge of energy reform
Renewable energy advocates are urging Bahamian consumers to “take charge” of their consumption and become more “independent” if they are to lower costs and be more environmentally-friendly. Philip Feller, general manager of SuperGreen Solutions, spea
Opposition slams $120m non-Dorian spending hike
The opposition’s shadow finance minister has slammed the government’s decision to increase non-Dorian spending by $120m, branding it a “farce designed to mislead the Bahamian people”. Chester Cooper, also the Progressive Liberal Party’s (PLP) deput
Energy 'band aids' won't combat climate change
The Bahamas needs a “long-term plan” to fix its energy woes, a Chamber of Commerce executive is arguing, adding: “Band aids only cover the wound.” Debbie Deal, head of the Chamber’s energy and environment division, told a Democratic National Alliance
IAN FERGUSON: The science of good leadership
Leadership behaviours, and skills that contribute to superior performance, are known as the leadership competencies. Companies can help identify and develop next generation leaders by adopting a competency-based approach. Managers, aspiring managers
Thursday, January 30
No one hurt as 'tornado' destroys mobile home
A GOVERNMENT vehicle used to house its employees on Abaco was destroyed after bad weather hit the area yesterday morning, officials have confirmed. “The trailer was on the Ministry of Public Works’ compound. There was no one occupying the trailer an
EDITORIAL: Extra borrowing a drop in the rising ocean
THE announcement of extra borrowing by the government – to the tune of $587.9m – will, no doubt, bring a sharp intake of breath from many.
STATESIDE: Pompeo is probably right about Ukraine - many Americans just don’t care
There was a big kerfuffle last week involving American Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and an experienced, well respected reporter for National Public Radio in the US. The reporter, Mary Louise Kelly, had arranged an interview with Pompeo and during the conversation she asked him some pointed questions about Ukraine.
'Nurses still missing out on money'
SOME nurses were not paid their promised scarcity allowance yesterday, according to Bahamas Nurses Union president Amancha Williams. Registered nurses and trained clinical nurses in the public system were to get $3,000 and $2,000 respectively. But
Coronavirus: Anyone who travelled to China in past 20 days will be quarantined
l emergency on Thursday, Minister of Health Dr Duane Sands said anyone who has travelled to China in the last 20 days will be quarantined in the Bahamas.
Fernander files health security concerns
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander submitted a preliminary report this week to Commissioner of Police Anthony Ferguson outlining security concerns at the Ministry of Health, which are matters that can be addressed without his presence and in less than a year, according to his attorney Wayne Munroe.
We may need to revise building codes after tremors, says PM
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday it might be necessary for the country’s building codes to be amended to ensure structures can withstand the impact of earthquakes.
Sands signs deal with US foundation to aid Dorian recovery efforts
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday announced his ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Americares Foundation to aid Hurricane Dorian recovery efforts.
‘Bringing people home could be public health risk’
A HEALTH expert has warned it could be a public health risk to bring citizens back home from Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, without being quarantined.
Compass Point owner issues licence warning
Compass Point’s owner yesterday warned he will not renew his hotel licence for 2020 until the government agrees to support an examination of how the resort industry’s regulation can be improved. Leigh Rodney, the West Bay Street-based property’s pro
'Uncharted territory' on $508m deficit blow-out
The Bahamas is in “almost uncharted territory” over its unplanned $508m post-Dorian borrowing, a Fiscal Responsibility Council member said yesterday, while warning: “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Gowon Bowe, who represents the Bahamas Institute of Ch
Govt seeks extra $120m for non-Dorian spending
The government plans to borrow almost $120m to cover unbudgeted non-Dorian spending deemed “imperative for orderly, stable, sustainable and resilient governance”, it was revealed yesterday. K P Turnquest, pictured , deputy prime minister, detailed s
$200m tax breaks drive revenue fall
A “sizeable proportion” of the $232.55m in foregone Dorian revenues relates to recovery zone tax breaks, the Ministry of Finance’s top official confirmed yesterday, Marlon Johnson, the acting financial secretary, said the government had taken “a ver
Consumer watchdog's zero regulation 'teeth'
The government’s consumer watchdog lacks enforcement “teeth” because it has zero regulations to support its activities, its chairman adding that planned changes will “bring us into the 21st century”. Philip Beneby, the Consumer Protection Commission
Sands warns of danger despite precautions as students set to return
AS the deadly coronavirus continues to infect people worldwide, Minister of Health Dr Sands told Parliament yesterday that “concern regarding the further spread” of the virus to Bahamian shores “is a reality”.
Dorian bill leaves no option to borrowing
FINANCE Minister K Peter Turnquest defended government’s intention to borrow $637.9m post Hurricane Dorian, insisting the Minnis administration had the “appropriate response” to rebuilding the affected islands and revitalising the economy.
Valley defiant despite Rolle offer to mediate
VALLEY Boys Chairman Brian Adderley said yesterday that while the group is open to discussions to address issues concerning the handling of Junkanoo parades, its members are still not prepared to participate under the current parade’s management.
Blessed are MPs - who could do better
ANGLICAN Archdeacon Father James Palacious told parliamentarians that they need to stop their “slackness” when it comes to adhering to the Public Disclosure Act.
Come out and support GSSSA championships
The Government Secondary Schools Sports Association Basketball championship series promises to provide an unique experience for the student-athletes participating and fanbases cheering them on.
Keep out of the pulpit
Take the Gazette announcement…Sunday, January 5th, 2020 Royal Bahamas Annual Church Service will be held at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church Robinson Road…thereafter came the Traffic arrangements.
Higgs sisters continue winning ways
BOTH Higgs sisters continue their winning ways in the Carolinas to highlight the performances of Bahamian collegiate swimmers throughout NCAA Division I swimming. Albury Higgs and the South Carolina Gamecocks completed the weekend with a pair of win
Man denies throwing hot liquid on woman
A 43-year-old man yesterday denied allegations he put a woman in hospital after throwing a hot liquid on her after they got into an argument earlier this month. Ricardo Cartwright denied causing grievous harm to Sanovia Johnson Cartwright on January
Policeman describes finding dead body of one of four killed
A senior police officer yesterday described encountering the dead body of one of four people killed during the Fox Hill mass shooting moments after the incident occurred seven years ago. Inspector Lavardo Sherman testified about encountering the lif
Christopher Ferguson to pursue pro football ranks
AS his collegiate football career came to an end and his attention shifts to the pursuit of professional ranks, Christopher Ferguson delivered a parting message to the people most influential on his journey thus far. In the final game of his collegi
Lloyd needs reality check
Education Minister Jeff Lloyd needs a serious reality check. His recent self-serving rant about why he sometimes needs his wife by his side when he undertakes official foreign travel came across as defending an entitlement.
Lashann and Longhorns on 5-game win streak
AFTER a slow start to the season, Lashann Higgs and the Texas Longhorns Women’s Basketball has now extended their winning streak to five games in the Big 12.Higgs scored a game high 19 points to lead the Longhorns to a 70-53 win on the road over the
Global growth too low
Since September 2019, the Federal Reserve has been buying 80% of US Treasury debt. The US is borrowing from itself – unprecedented. The attack on the Abqaiq oil facility in Saudi Arabia in September 2019 that affected global oil supplies significantly barely increased oil prices. The killing of the Iran general by the US on January 3, 2020 barely influenced oil prices. The markets are not being influenced by threat to Middle Eastern oil.
Doing something right
RE: A Servant Of The Nation Who deserves Respect. The Tribune, Editorial, January 24, 2020.
Bahamas races to fill aviation safety gaps
Aviation chiefs yesterday pledged to double The Bahamas’ compliance score after global regulators found it had implemented less than one-third of the required “safety oversight” regime. Captain Charles Beneby, the Bahamas Civil Aviation Authority’s
Aviation concern on 'deviation from optimum safety'
Private aviation operators yesterday warned that “any deviation from optimum safety is a concern” after it was revealed that The Bahamas was just 32 percent compliant with global standards. Anthony K Hamilton, president of the Bahamas Association of
Airbnb hails 'Bahamas Sabbatical' partnership
Airbnb says its partnership with The Bahamas will both promote sustainable tourism and drive increased visitor numbers to this nation. The vacation rental website linked with the Ministry of Tourism to unveil the “Bahamas Sabbatical”, which will off
Bahamas takes 'Sabbatical' with Airbnb for visitor boost
The Bahamas’ latest partnership with Airbnb is designed to further boost post-Dorian tourism and encourage locals to develop sustainable cultural and environmental offerings, officials said yesterday.Joy Jibrilu, the Ministry of Tourism’s director-ge
Insurance switching to risk-based taxation
Reforms switching the Bahamian insurance industry to risk-based taxation are with the Attorney General’s Office and expected to be in Parliament “shortly”, it was revealed yesterday. Vibert Williams, the Bahamas Insurance Association’s (BIA) deputy
Life insurance claims exceed $300m mark
Life insurance claim payouts are expected to top the $300m mark for 2019, the Bahamas Insurance Association’s (BIA) deputy chairman said yesterday. Sandy Morley, speaking at the opening of Insurance Month, said: “I would just take a minute to highli
Women entrepreneurs hit by 30% income gap
The US government has teamed with its Bahamian counterpart to launch its Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) initiative locally in a bid to narrow another element of the gender gap. Stephanie Bowers, the US Embassy’s charge d’affaires, said The Bah
Furniture store aids plastics end drive
A Bahamian furniture store is backing the government’s single-use plastics ban by offering complementary reusable bags to consumers as long as supplies last. Oasis Furniture sad its bag campaign is part of a broader sustainability effort that it pra
Wednesday, January 29
Shooting is year’s first murder for Grand Bahama
GRAND Bahama recorded its first murder for 2020 when a young man was shot dead on Tuesday evening in the “Ghetto” area of Freeport.
EDITORIAL: We have allowed this failure for far too long
THE tragedy that saw Byron Ferguson’s plane crash into Bahamian waters – leaving him missing presumed dead – had already exposed some of the failings of our search and rescue capacity. Today the extent to which our nation is ill prepared when it comes to airline safety is laid bare.
Laroda confident over GB Airport and Lucayan sale
GRAND Bahama Chamber of Commerce president Greg Laroda is confident major announcements could be made soon concerning the sale of the island’s airport and the beleaguered Grand Lucayan resort. Mr Laroda believes the airport is vital in terms of the
Turnquest: We are getting there
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest said yesterday the government has received positive feedback from utility companies in Grand Bahama concerning the restoration process on the storm impacted island.Ever since Hurricane Dorian made landfall on the
Fourth body recovered after boat capsize
THE body of another man was found off Double Breasted Cay yesterday as Royal Bahamas Defence Force officials continue investigating the discovery of 31 Haitian migrants in the Ragged Island chain. The discovery comes after three men were found washe
Rolle hoping to bring groups back together after Valley Boys resignation
A DAY after the Valley Boys shocked the nation with its resignation from the Junkanoo Corporation New Providence (JCNP), Youth, Sports & Culture Minister Lanisha Rolle said her ministry will work to bring all groups together for a discussion to resolve ongoing issues.
DPM urges more than 25% water bill cut for GB
The Grand Bahama Utility Company yesterday defended its 25 percent water bill discount against calls from the deputy prime minister for the reduction to be greater.The water supplier, in a statement issued to Tribune Business, said Freeport businesse
Search and rescue failings exposed before pilot crash
Deficiencies in The Bahamas’ aviation search and rescue system were exposed by international regulators seven months before the crash involving still-missing pilot, Byron Ferguson.The International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) last assessment
Nassau airport targets 1,448-acre expansion
The Lynden Pindling International Airport’s (LPIA) operator has obtained 1,448 acres from the government for future runway expansion after recording its first-ever annual profit at $7.755m.The Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD), in its 2019 ann
Cabinet shaken by quake tremors
TREMORS from a powerful regional earthquake disrupted a Cabinet meeting and forced dozens along New Providence’s northern coast to evacuate their multi-storey office buildings and seek safety on ground level yesterday.
Leniency plea - for 107lbs of marijuana
AN attorney was unsuccessful in her bid yesterday to have a magistrate impose a lighter sentence for drug possession on her Jamaican client because of the prime minister’s stance on decriminalising small amounts of marijuana.
Monitored for deadly virus: Quarantined student tells Tribune of her life under lockdown
A BAHAMIAN student living in Wuhan - the city where the new coronavirus originated - has been quarantined by officials in China.
What next for Valley Boys after Junkanoo boycott?
FEARS were raised yesterday in the Junkanoo community of large-scale defections from the Valley Boys group and the impact on the parade’s turnout after the group’s resignation from the Junkanoo Corporation New Providence (JCNP).
Attempted murder charge
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
Airbnb and BNT link up to offer five sabbaticals
AIRBNB has partnered with the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) to launch a Family Island sabbatical to let the world know The Bahamas is still “open for business” following the passage of Hurricane Dorian. In April, the online lodging marketplace will g
Murder accused says his bruises were caused by 'lovemaking' and basketball
The man accused of murdering a middle-aged woman on Valentine’s Day three years ago at Seagrape, Eight Mile Rock, had told the lead police investigator that the bruises and abrasions on his body were caused from “lovemaking” with his girlfriend and w
Here's where money talks
Reference your editorial today 21st January 2020, “The Law Must Be Upheld. “ As they say in Internet Cryptography, FOTFL or Fell on the floor laughing.
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Former cop fails to overturn extradition order in sex case
THE Court of Appeal has foiled a former police officer’s hopes of having the country’s highest court overturn its order for him to be extradited to the United States to stand trial for allegedly sexually assaulting his ex-girlfriend.The appellate cou
Ragged Island in desperate need of help
Please allow a little space in your paper for our letter expressing concerns we have for our beloved home of Ragged Island.
Time to tell the public
The Chair of BP&L, Mr Moxey - his Minister when speaking about the all essential use of standby generators always speaks about their cost, but never speaks or confirms if BP&L makes a profit from their extensive use – why?
Sailor Joshua Weech, 13, learns to balance his chores, homework
DESPITE having eight international competitions and multiple domestic races under his belt, 13-year-old sailor Joshua Weech is still a typical Bahamian teenager with chores and homework. With the help of his family and friends, the promising athlete
Charisma, Sasha burn up track
Charisma Taylor and Sasha Wells, who could be headed for a collision course in the NCAA Division One Indoor Track and Field Championships, had some outstanding performances over the weekend for their respective colleges.Taylor, competing for Washingt
Bears hand Mingoes their second loss of the season
THE University of the Bahamas Mingoes scored first against the Bears in BFA action on Sunday and were hoping to hold on for the win. The Bears though answered back to take the match 3-1 and hand the Mingoes their second loss of the season. Mingoes
Ayton leads Suns to 133-104 blowout of Mavericks
DALLAS (AP) — Devin Booker scored 20 of his 32 points in a decisive third quarter, Deandre Ayton had a season-high 31 points and the Phoenix Suns never trailed in a 133-104 dismantling of the Dallas Mavericks last night.
BLTA congratulates junior tennis stars
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) congratulates two of its juniors on their selection as “Student Of The Year” Nominees: Jackson Mactaggart and Sarai Clarke.
NPBA: Mingoes stop Rebels 83-70
THE University of The Bahamas Mingoes never trailed against the Patmor Rebels in NPBA action Monday and led by as much as 15 points en route to the 83-70 victory at the AF Adderley Gym on Monday night. Robert Joseph led the Mingoes with 25 points, i
BISX's share index doubles growth rate
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange’s (BISX) All-Share Index more than-doubled its growth rate last year compared to 2018, it was confirmed yesterday.The Index, which only measures share price movements among BISX-listed equity stocks and e
GBPA says airport talks still 'ongoing'
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) yesterday confirmed that discussions about the Government taking over ownership of the island’s airport remain “ongoing”. Freeport’s quasi-governmental authority, in a statement, said “full details” would be di
Vacation rentals not feeling VAT’s impact
The Ministry of Tourism’s top official yesterday said Bahamian vacation rental owners are not feeling the impact of the VAT that Airbnb has been collecting on the Government’s behalf since October.
Women entrepreneurs hit by 30% income gap
The US government has teamed with its Bahamian counterpart to launch its Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) initiative locally in a bid to narrow another element of the gender gap.
Bahamas takes ‘Sabbatical’ with Airbnb for visitor boost
The Bahamas’ latest partnership with Airbnb is designed to further boost post-Dorian tourism and encourage locals to develop sustainable cultural and environmental offerings, officials said yesterday.
Tuesday, January 28
NPVA: UB Mingoes defeat Junior National Team in three sets
THE University of The Bahamas Mingoes only needed three sets to defeat the junior national team in New Providence Volleyball Association action at DW Davis on Monday night. The Mingoes won the match 26-24, 25-22 and 25-11. The Mingoes now sit in the
FACE TO FACE: Tony keeps on running - and giving back for the success he’s achieved
Imagine running for 26 miles – 42 kilometers. There’s a special place on the endurance list for the people who run this distance in marathons around the world. As I interviewed Anthony Longley for this week’s Face to Face, I was impressed by all of his achievements. He is the first Bahamian to ever serve as International Director in Toastmasters International and he is the first Bahamian to speak at the Million Dollar Round Table.
NEMA releases statement after powerful earthquake hits between Cuba and Jamaica
NEMA has released the following statement on the earthquake that struck south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica on Tuesday afternoon:
Lloyd launches new curriculum guides
EDUCATION Minister Jeffrey Lloyd yesterday announced his ministry has revised curriculum guides for primary and high schools to ensure students are equipped with the practical skills they need to be successful in the 21st century.Speaking at a press
Campbell cutting red tape on Dorian relief
IN response to frustrations, Social Services and Urban Development Minister Frankie Campbell said his ministry has removed red tape over requests for hurricane relief assistance to help residents on Grand Bahama. “Having heard the frustrations, the
Abaco marketing campaign to get extra support
MINISTER of Tourism and Aviation Dionsio D’Aguilar said yesterday officials will be revisiting their marketing campaign to include new updates about ongoing developments in Abaco following Dorian to help facilitate more visitors to the island. This
Photographer hopes award-winning image of trapped sea turtle will inspire change
A PHOTO of a dead turtle hooked and tangled in fishing line in Bahamian waters has gained international attention after winning a prestigious photography award. The image, which was captured in 2017 by Canadian dive instructor Shane Gross, placed fi
Auto ‘shot in arm’ via 31% sales rise
Auto dealers received a “badly needed shot in the arm” from 2019’s 31.18 percent sales increase, it was revealed yesterday, marking the industry’s best performance since VAT’s arrival.
Financial firms in 'strategic alliance'
A well-known Bahamian accounting firm has teamed with a local investment house in a “strategic alliance” that has seen the latter taking over its back office and registered agent functions.Senior executives at FT Consultants and Providence Advisors c
BPL targets fall 2021 for rental generation end
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) last night confirmed it aims to end its reliance on rental generation by fall 2021 in a move that would save long-suffering consumers $2m-plus per month.
Odyssey confirms overflight fees bid
Odyssey Aviation, the fixed base operator (FBO) with a presence in Nassau, yesterday confirmed it was among the rejected bidders who sought to operate The Bahamas’ overflight fee regime. Steven Kelly, its chief executive, told Tribune Business: “We
'Unify' Abaco's power grid to eliminate four voltages
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has warned many Abaco residents will be without power “for a year or longer”, as it called for a “unified” grid to eliminate the four voltages used pre-Dorian.The multilateral lender, in documents accompanyin
Fernander takes on new job - by remote
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander did not report to the Ministry of Health yesterday, but is actively handling its security matters since being briefed by the minister of health, according to his attorney.
That’s it - we quit: Valley Boys resign in protest over loss of Boxing Day title
THE Valley Boys resigned from the Junkanoo Corporation New Providence (JCNP) yesterday, saying they will no longer participate in upcoming parades managed by the body.
US urged to amend warnings
THE government believes travel advisories issued by the US State Department should be revisited, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Darren Henfield, who stated yesterday the warnings “are counterproductive” to the country’s tourism industry.
Students stay put in China - for now
AS the government continues to closely monitor the deadly coronavirus in China, Foreign Affairs Minister Darren Henfield said yesterday that officials see “no real reason” to evacuate Bahamians studying in Wuhan.
Mrs Minnis in Belize for CARICOM meeting
PATRICIA Minnis, wife of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, travelled on Sunday to attend an executive meeting and adolescent Forum hosted by the Spouses of CARICOM Leaders Action Network (SCLAN) in Belize City, Belize. The event began yesterday and e
Police find illegal firearm, marijuana
POLICE recovered an illegal firearm and a quantity of dangerous drugs from the streets of New Providence on Sunday. In the first incident, according to reports, shortly before 1pm, operations officers acting on intelligence conducted a search of a b
Double rapist loses bid to overturn 14-year sentence
A DOUBLE rapist has lost in his bid to have the country’s highest court overturn a lower court’s decision to dismiss his appeal of one of his sentences without hearing the matter first. The Privy Council, in a written ruling, set aside Melvin Saunde
Call to speed up $450,000 honoraria investigation
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd is anxious for police to complete their investigation into allegations that workers defrauded taxpayers of nearly $450,000 by manipulating a system of stipends and honoraria. Accountability, he said in a recent intervie
Woman stable after drive-by shooting
A WOMAN is in hospital in stable condition after she was injured during a drive-by shooting, police said. According to a police report, shortly after 1am yesterday, a man and a woman were driving on Mackey Street, near Chesapeake Road, when occupant
Two men remanded on unlawful sex charges
TWO men were remanded to prison yesterday over allegations they each had sex with a teenaged girl.
PETER YOUNG: It’s all done and dusted, time for Boris to deliver
Having written two weeks ago about the watershed moment of the UK Parliament passing the Withdrawal Bill for Britain’s departure from the European Union, I hesitate to claim there has been yet another significant milestone in the Brexit saga. But this time, finally, it is for real and the goal has been achieved.
We deserve better service
Not long ago, we were reminded that the Bahamas is a difficult place to do business. We are stuck well over the 100th worst place to do business in the world. Successive governments have boasted that legislation planned or enacted would address this problem. So far there has been little movement.
Abaco's sorry trailer
The most recent back and forth about the unfortunate, insensitive and cold state that the people of Abaco find themselves, are through no fault of their own.
Winning Rasta vote
Expressing his support for the decriminalisation of marijuana, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis may have endeared himself to the Rastafarian community, particularly Bobo Ashanti members of the late Prince Charles Emmanuel Edwards’ Ethiopian African Black International Congress (EABIC). To the Rastafari, marijuana is a sacrament.
Buddy Hield: ‘See you in paradise, you’ll be missed’
THE outpouring of grief continues as Bahamian athletes joined the international sports community in mourning the death of NBA icon Kobe Bryant and the victims of Sunday morning’s helicopter crash.
Devynne Charlton looks to make her comeback
IT has been two years since she last competed on the international scene. But hurdler Devynne Charlton feels she’s in the right place at the right time to make her comeback.
Basketball Smiles partners with Bahamas Basketball Federation
BASKETBALL Smiles looks to continue its more than two decade relationship with the Bahamas and has now partnered with the Bahamas Basketball Federation moving forward to further that development.
Hield scores career high 42, rallies Kings to 133-129 win over Timberwolves in OT
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Buddy Hield scored a career-high 42 points to help the Sacramento Kings rally from a 27-point deficit for a 133-129 overtime victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves last night.
A poetic expression of womanhood
Inspired by Maya Angelou and with the goal to define womanhood in the 21st century in mind, Tamara Bethel returns with the second edition of her “Woman Thou Art” poetry showcase.
A female friendship leads to the ‘Perfect Finish’
LAUNCHING a business is never easy. Add having a full-time job and tertiary studies to the mix and an entrepreneurial venture can seem far out of reach.
LIFE LINES: Instinct and intuition – your inner compass
Intuition, instinct. Those two words are sometimes interchangeable although I would probably ascribe slightly different shades of meaning to each, as intuition frequently gets used pejoratively, especially when used as a phrase “woman’s intuition”. But I won’t go there today. Instead I want to talk about that innate sense of instinct or intuition when you just feel something – good or bad – about a situation or a person.
‘Women largely ignored in planning for natural disasters’
Women tend to suffer more during and after natural disasters. We have learned lessons from Long Island and Ragged Island, but these seem to have evaporated into the ether.
Four silent killers of Bahamian men
Bahamian men notoriously take poor control of their health. Many Bahamian men rarely have annual health physicals and often make negative lifestyle choices. Silent health killers sadly continue to lead to the early and usually preventative deaths of hundreds of Bahamian men every year.
Local company uses revolutionary new material in feminine hygiene products
THE Women’s Haven has always been adamant about taking the organic approach to “yoni” wellness, a Sanskrit word that has been interpreted to literally mean the womb and the female reproductive organs.
Protected Areas Fund in $1.1m german Grant
THE Bahamas Protected Areas Fund (BPAF) will receive $1.1m from the German government to aid with post-Hurricane Dorian recovery and environmental damage assessments. The Bahamas is normally disqualified by its relatively high per capita income from
Furniture store grows into its third location
A Bahamian-owned outdoor furniture store is expanding to its third location less than three years after opening its Sandyport outlet.Oasis Furniture has extended its footprint to Eleuthera by collaborating with Governor’s Harbour-based Bahama Hand Pr
Customs has 'weathered many storms', says DPM
The deputy prime minister has praised the Customs Department for “weathering many storms” such as the criticism it faced over its electronic Click2Clear goods clearance system. K Peter Turnquest, speaking at its awards ceremony, also reminded the De
Minister 'apologises' for Abaco omission
The tourism minister yesterday apologised for his ministry’s decision to remove the Abacos from its marketing platforms, and vowed to switch to more “specific” messaging about the islands. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, conced
US hails Bahamas air agreement as 'win-win'
A top US official yesterday hailed the signing of an air transport agreement with The Bahamas as a “win-win” situation that paves the way for increased airlift and economic growth in both countries.David Short, the US Department of Transportation’s d
Monday, January 27
EDITORIAL: Justice delayed is justice denied
IT IS now more than three years since Osworth Rolle was shot dead by Detective Constable Kendrick Brown.
INSIGHT: Will Dr Minnis still be driving the FNM train in 2022?
WHEN the FNM were sworn in to become the next government of The Bahamas on May 11, 2017, many were convinced that we lived to witness, arguably, a retirement party for the country’s worst prime minister. Though it was done by an unlikely hero, it still made the way for Bahamians to be hopeful again. Two and a half years later, while the title of worst prime minister may still be in the grasp of his predecessor, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is failing to win many friends in the electorate.
Valley Boys resign from Junkanoo Corporation
THE Valley Boys have resigned from the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence with immediate effect over a row about official results for the Boxing Day parade.
Disaster Reconstruction Authority dismisses 'fake news' over quality of domes
THE Disaster Reconstruction Authority has defended the integrity of the domes it has purchased to temporarily house storm victims, calling social media posts criticising their quality “fake news”. “On Friday, January 24, 2020, a fake news story circ
100m tax ‘rebate’ in doubt
Hurricane Dorian’s financial fall-out has placed the government’s plan to return $100m to the Bahamian people through “significant tax cuts” in doubt, the deputy prime minister has revealed.
Economy 'running on 30% efficiency'
The Bahamian economy is “running on 30 percent efficiency” because of its public education woes, a governance reformer has warned, arguing that these have placed “the entire nation in peril”. Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance
Outrage at Abaco tourism omission
A furious South Abaco tourism business is blasting the Ministry of Tourism for “scrubbing” the island’s portal from its website, arguing that this threatens “to tear us down even further” post-Dorian.
Bahamas in Fintech 'first for Caribbean'
Corporate loan rejection rates in The Bahamas are double those in other Caribbean countries, it has been revealed, resulting in financial technology (Fintech) being deployed to boost capital access. An Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) paper on
'We don't want the Valley Boys to boycott Junkanoo'
JUNKANOO Corporation of New Providence Chairman Dion Miller is “disappointed” with the Valley Boys’ threat to boycott further parades after the official 2019 Boxing Day results placed the Shell Saxons as victors of the parade.“We don’t need that kind
Nygard in two new sex writs
CANADIAN fashion mogul Peter Nygard is facing two separate lawsuits after being accused of sexual assault.
Bodies found after boat capsizes
MEMBERS of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the Royal Bahamas Police Force are investigating the discovery of three bodies washed ashore in the Ragged Island chain on Saturday.
Still waiting answers on son’s unlawful killing
KENDAL and Christine Rolle were relieved last April when Coroner’s Court jurors found that a police constable killed their son unlawfully.
Thousands hit by water breakdown
THOUSANDS of homes in Eastern New Providence were left without water yesterday after a major supply pipe fractured caused the road to collapse around it.
Students caught in Chinese virus city
AS the coronavirus death toll in China climbs, officials will continue to monitor the travel history of every visitor to The Bahamas, but there are no plans at this time to evacuate Bahamians studying in Wuhan, where the outbreak originated.
AG leads condolences to J Paul Morgan family
ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel, QC, on behalf of the Bahamas government, expressed condolences to the family of the late J Paul Morgan, a long standing member of the board of the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority, (URCA) and a friend of Th
Kobe Bryant's death leaves NBA players, others in shock
NEW YORK (AP) — Kobe Bryant authored some of his most memorable moments at Madison Square Garden and made himself a centrepiece of the Lakers-Celtics rivalry. Bryant was remembered for that and so much more yesterday after the five-time NBA champion
Megan Moss 4th in 400m, Charlton wins hurdles
IT was a phenomenal day on the track for quarter-miler Megan Moss and hurdler Devynne Charlton at the Rod McCravy Memorial in Lexington, Kentucky.Moss, in her freshman year at the host University of Kentucky, picked up a fourth-place finish in the wo
Kristian Robinson and Jazz Chisholm among MLB's Top 100 Prospects
A PAIR of Bahamian minor leaguers were listed among the Top 100 Prospects when MLB Pipeline unveiled its first rankings for the upcoming 2020 season. Kristian Robinson of the Arizona Diamondbacks was listed at No. 43 while Jazz Chisholm of the Miami
Hield scores 21, Kings beat Bulls 98-81 to snap a six-game slide
BUDDY Hield came off the bench for the first time all season and still led the Sacramento Kings in scoring as they stopped a six-game losing streak. Hield finished with 21 points and eight rebounds to lead the Kings to a 98-81 win over the Chicago B
Athletes qualify for the Carifta games
SIX athletes attained the qualifying standard for the 2020 CARIFTA Games to highlight the third annual DTSP Wolf Pack/Rose Cleare Track Classic on Saturday at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium. Leading the way was Anthaya Charlton in the
WORLD VIEW: Only CARICOM countries can divide CARICOM
THE meeting between US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, and the Foreign Ministers of seven Caribbean countries, gave rise to many questions, but the US seeking to “divide CARICOM” should not be one of them.
It's our job to hold the police to account
The Commissioner of Police is complaining that this village is producing so many idiots that he is obliged to lower his recruitment standards.
Election will tell us
Seeing that, before their appointment, the closest most FNM cabinet ministers would have come to the first class world travel they are now enjoying would have been a weekend at Day’s Inn in Fort Lauderdale, there is perhaps some truth to the PM’s assertion that his government has “uplifted the poor’’.
Ayton posts 2nd straight double double but Suns lose to the Grizzlies 114-109
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Ja Morant scored 14 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter to help the Memphis Grizzlies hold off the Phoenix Suns 114-109 last night for their second straight victory.
Oil explorer seeks approval to open to small investors
A Bahamas-based oil explorer and its advisers last Thursday submitted a formal request for regulatory approval to open their £2m mutual fund to investments by small Bahamian retail investors.Brian Jones, managing director of Leno Corporate Services,
Climate change 'reverse' for real estate valuations
A Bahamian realtor says climate change is reversing real estate market values “back to the era of our grandparents” with an emphasis on elevated locations away from the coast. Monica Knowles, a top producer at Bahamas Realty, argued that the impact
BTVI chief: Skills gap has widened
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute’s (BTVI) president is arguing that skills gaps within the Bahamian workforce have actually widened over the past decade based on recent survey results.Dr Robert Robertson, speaking to Tribune Business fo
DPM: Credit bureau to create 'truth in lending'
The deputy prime minister has voiced optimism that The Bahamas’ first-ever credit bureau will create “truth in lending” and help to open a “sluggish” credit market that has dampened economic growth. K Peter Turnquest, speaking at the bureau’s launch
Airport to seek extra fixed-base operator
Lynden Pindling International Airport’s (LPIA) operator is aiming to grow its revenue streams by seeking an extra fixed-base operator (FBO) after it broke the 4m passenger mark for the first time in 2019.The Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD),
UK indicates support for Bahamas' 'Blue Economy'
The British High Commissioner has indicated that the UK will likely support The Bahamas’ efforts to develop the so-called “Blue Economy” and greater use of technology in agriculture. Sarah Dickson shared her government’s potential backing when she p
Sunday, January 26
Only CARICOM countries can divide CARICOM
THE meeting between US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, and the Foreign Ministers of seven Caribbean countries, gave rise to many questions, but the US seeking to “divide CARICOM” should not be one of them.External forces can try as they wish to divi
Man dies after Abaco traffic accident
A man is dead after a traffic accident on Abaco in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Kobe Bryant and his daughter perish in helicopter crash, seven others dead
CALABASAS, Calif. (AP) — NBA legend Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter and seven others were killed in a helicopter crash on a remote, steep hillside in Southern California on Sunday, his sudden death at age 41 touching off an outpouring of grief for a star whose celebrity transcended basketball.
Friday, January 24
Tributes paid to woman killed in Andros traffic accident
THE family of the woman who lost her life in a traffic fatality in Central Andros on Thursday say they are shocked by her unexpected death and believe she was taken too soon.
'No reported cases of coronavirus' in Bahamian students in Wuhan, China
THERE have been no reported cases of the coronavirus found among Bahamian students living in Wuhan, China, following its deadly outbreak in the province, foreign affairs officials have said.
Bahamian accused of killing friend in Florida
A BAHAMIAN man is accused of kicking his friend to death in Florida after a surveillance video emerged showing the victim being kicked for an hour and 19 minutes.
Environment minister: Climate change is a real threat
ENVIRONMENT Minister Romauld Ferreira said the country must face the fact that climate change is a real threat, stating scientific data proves the Earth is getting warmer.
Murder victim described as loving, caring and good-hearted
RELATIVES of the man shot dead on Thursday night in Flamingo Gardens have identified him as 25-year-old Jahkil Armbrister.
Man dies after being hit by vehicle in hospital compound
THE Public Hospitals Authority is warning the general public about the speed limit at Princess Margaret Hospital after an elderly man died when he was struck by a vehicle in the hospital compound Friday morning.
Minister meets with US Secretary of State at CARICOM event
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Darren Henfield met with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during his two-day working visit in Jamaica with CARICOM leaders this week.
Davis: Creation of ministry, Disaster Relief Authority delayed pace of hurricane recovery
PLP Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis believes that the government’s creation of a Ministry for Disaster Relief and now a Disaster Relief Authority further delayed the pace of hurricane recovery for Grand Bahama and Abaco.
DNA Chairman criticises government over marijuana issue
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Chairman Omar Smith accused the government of using marijuana to deflect from the administration’s failures.
Ministry coalition launches initiative to tackle childhood obesity
THE Ministry of Health’s Healthy Bahamas Coalition launched their Let's Move Initiative: Reducing Childhood Obesity project at Stephen Dillet Primary School on Friday.
Shark attacks decrease around the world in 2019
UNPROVOKED shark attacks around the world decreased last year, although they rose in the United States, according to researchers.
Killarney’s FNM Constituency Association meeting
KILLARNEY’S FNM Constituency Association’s general monthly meeting will he held on Tuesday at 7pm in the Community Centre on Blake Road.
EDITORIAL: A servant of the nation who deserves respect
IT was late at night on April 10, 2013, when a call came into The Tribune newsroom to report not one, but two police officers shot in separate incidents. One was senior officer Clayton Fernander.
DIANE PHILLIPS: When a minister’s soft voice shouted in rage
When a Methodist minister writes a tell-all book about his life, you aren’t too surprised to hear him wax eloquently about the one woman he loved for half a century, or the fact that he never lost faith, no matter how many challenges he faced.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Connect the dots on marijuana legislation
PRIME Minister Minnis seems to be in the zone these days, in regards to legalising and decriminalising marijuana, both medicinally and recreationally here in the Bahamas.
'We will solve issues at Fishing Hole Road'
THE government is committed to fixing the structural issues at Fishing Hole Road in Freeport, according to a Minnis administration official. Minister of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson made the comments at a press conference on Wednesday, after
'My mother was killed like a dog in the street'
THE son of the female pedestrian who lost her life after being hit by a car wants the person responsible for his mother’s death to be jailed.Deangelo Bain, 29, told The Tribune he is “deeply saddened” to know that his mother, 46-year-old Geneva Gibso
Culmer: Still time for recall system
FREE National Movement Chairman Carl Culmer has said the governing party has more than two years remaining to fulfil goals set in its 2017 manifesto, suggesting yesterday a non-performing MP recall system could still be possible. Mr Culmer’s optimis
'FNM paid for meeting to launch re-election'
THE event billed as a town-hall meeting that launched the Free National Movement’s 2022 re-election campaign on Wednesday night was funded by the party, Chairman Carl Culmer told The Tribune . The event was criticised by Progressive Liberal Party Le
Pinder defends proposals to revoke work permits
DIRECTOR of Labour John Pinder further defended the department’s understudy/apprenticeship programme yesterday, days after saying he wanted employers’ work permits revoked if they failed to appoint and properly train apprentices. “...It has nothing
BTVI survey aims to close the skills gap
A RECENT skills gap survey completed by the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute has revealed that 46 percent of employers surveyed say they are unable to recruit local employees to meet their needs.The survey also revealed that 65 percent of i
Lawyer accuses police of 'fakery' over car in shooting
A DEFENCE attorney yesterday accused a crime scene investigator of engaging in “pretty, childish fakery” to convince jurors that the car he processed was the one three men used to execute the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting. Geoffrey Farquharson accused
GB airport in '$1 each' proposal
A proposal has been made for the government to acquire Grand Bahama International Airport by paying its existing owners $1 each then assume responsibility for its multi-million dollar rebuilding.Well-placed Tribune Business sources, speaking on condi
Sixty percent of firms say workforce 'uncompetitive'
Some 60 percent of Bahamian companies view the country’s workforce as “globally uncompetitive”, with a labour specialist affirming yesterday: “Everyone admits we have a challenge.” Peter Goudie, the National Tripartite Council’s vice-chairman, said
Bahamas back as 'least corrupt in the Caribbean'
The Bahamas yesterday regained its status as the least corrupt country in the Caribbean despite governance reform activists arguing that this “does not tell the full picture” on widespread graft.Matt Aubry, the Organisation for Responsible Governance
Caribbean rating agency entering Bahamas market
A Caribbean rating agency yesterday voiced optimism it can help Bahamian debt issuers raise capital at lower costs after being approved to offer its services in this nation.Wayne Dass, Caribbean Information and Credit Rating Services Limited (CariCRI
Bahamas must be an ‘Atlantic tiger’ over arbitration
The Bahamas must become the “Atlantic tiger” in arbitration and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) rather than staying a “Caribbean pussy cat”, a former Bar Association chief urged yesterday.
Man shot dead in his Flamingo Gardens home
A man is dead after a shooting incident in Flamingo Gardens on Thursday night.
China virus alert stays in place as cases rise
AS fears mount over a new strain of the deadly coronavirus, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said there is still no travel restriction or extra screening for Chinese travellers to The Bahamas unless individuals have travelled from the impacted areas, have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Planning giving birth in US? Think again
The Trump administration is imposing new visa rules aimed at restricting “birth tourism”, in which women travel to the United States to give birth so their children can have US citizenship. The regulations, which take effect today, address one of President Donald Trump’s main political priorities.
Branville’s unsure on ‘22 election
BRANVILLE McCartney’s return to front line politics for the 2022 general election is still “up in the air”.
Enjoying life
Our Almighty God created all life and He wishes for us to enjoy His gift of life, and to be happy. Believers in Christ recognise that a key component to enjoying life is to have a wholesome and close relationship with God.
No respect: Fernander’s reward after 37 years - ‘Go to Health Ministry’
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander has been deployed to the Ministry of Health on “special assignment” — the second senior officer of the Royal Bahamas Police Force seconded to a government ministry.
21-year-old on murder charge
A 21-year-old man was charged yesterday with murdering another man in the Carmichael Road area last week.Jermaine Griffin was charged before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt with murdering Jacquelin Francois on January 13.According to police, s
'Save our resources'
THE Bahamas Environment Science and Technology Commission (BEST) yesterday hosted a biodiversity workshop for law enforcement officials as part of its Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) project, an initiative geared towards ensuring the country benefit
Faith-based groups continue to support Bahamas recovery efforts
The Bahamas has seen an outpouring of help in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, the majority from international Christian charities who are continuing their recovery efforts for the long term and plan to be in Grand Bahama and Abaco over the next several years to help rebuild.
Quarter of the way to potable water across Grand Bahama
THE Grand Bahama Utility Company has repaired a portion of the wells that were impacted by Dorian and expects to achieve island-wide water potability over the next ten weeks. During an update this week on the current state of water quality, company
Abortion brings Haitianisation of The Bahamas
The Bahamian champion and liberal advocate of women’s reproductive healthcare and Nassau Tribune columnist, Alicia Wallace, by calling for the decriminalisation of abortion, reminds the writer of Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger.
Custodial sentences
The current debate on decriminalisation of offences involving small quantities of marijuana leads us to a much larger issue which simmers in our country. And that is the jailing of our citizens for minor infractions of the law.
Confidentiality
Can a senior Government official or a past one confirm that communications to a Minister are always accepted as being confidential and contents may not be publicly disclosed without the sender’s prior agreement or approval?
Team Bahamas 6th overall
The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s three-member team’s bid to finish fifth was thwarted by Costa Rica as they lost to their South American counterparts for the second time to finish sixth at the World Junior Tennis Girls North/Central America and Caribbean Qualifying Tournament.
NPBA: Specialists and High Flyers win
UPTOWN Cuts Specialists and Breezes High Flyers pulled off the New Providence Basketball Association’s double-header played at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Wednesday night.
Sports Notes
THE DTSP Wolfpack Track Club is set to hold its annual track meet on Saturday at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium. The event will get started at 9am and run throughout the day.
Symonette inducted into Mt Dora Hall of Fame
A Bahamian baseball player was recognised by his high school for his historic career and his impact on the central Florida institution.
THE PRESS BOX: COWBOYS HAPPY WITH NEW STAFF
COWBOYS VP Stephen Jones seems to be quite happy with the coaching staff new head coach Mike McCarthy has assembled.
Anglican rector sounds alarm on decaying family life
The deterioration of home and family life in the Bahamas has reached a “crisis point”, according to an Anglican clergyman who is calling for the legal profession to do more to save the Bahamian family.
The 20 areas which leaders must impact
Research suggests that business success rests on impactful leadership. Leadership at all levels requires skill, passion and will. We now focus our attention on 20 competencies that 2020’s leaders must exhibit all year long in this first of a two-part
Minister hails 7.216m tourism arrivals record
A Cabinet minister yesterday hailed The Bahamas’ record 7.216m visitor arrivals in 2019 as another “very impressive” sign of the industry’s post-Hurricane Dorian rebound.Dionisio D’Aguilar, pictured, minister of tourism and aviation, paid tribute to
False sense of security' over devaluation risks
The Bahamas would likely be forced to devalue its currency if a Hurricane Dorian-type storm made a direct hit on New Providence, an economic observer is arguing. Dr Jonathan Rodgers, the well known eye-doctor, argued that the government and Bahamian
Small business drive gains $600,000 boost
The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) has received a $600,000 grant funding boost for its mission to create and empower more Bahamian entrepreneurs. K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister, hailed the funding from the Inter-American Developm
Correction
Tribune Business, in a January 23, 2020, article entitled Downtown chief pledges area’s transformation, reported that the Downtown Nassau Partnership’s (DNP) managing director, Ed Fields, would be leaving his post to join Global Ports Holding as an i
Thursday, January 23
STATESIDE: We hold these truths to be self-evident - but nothing’s really changed, has it?
So far, 2020 is providing ample evidence that real and perceived discrimination in the United States on the basis of gender and race remains a big issue.
EDITORIAL: Kneejerk politics as election appears on the horizon
SO the pretence is done – the countdown to the 2022 election has begun.
Officials looking into problems with two Family Island schools
THE Ministry of Education said officials are addressing the issues plaguing two Family Island schools. This comes after students at Harbour Island All-Age School protested over the lack of teachers and Progressive Liberal Party Senator Michael Darvi
Elective surgeries back on at PMH
ELECTIVE surgeries at Princess Margaret Hospital will resume today, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands. Procedures were canceled by health officials earlier this week due to overcrowding at the public hospital, compounded by boarders, bed a
'Existential threat of climate change'
CLIMATE change is an “existential threat” to the environment, the economy and “life itself”, a former minister of state for finance has said. Zhivargo Laing, executive director of the University of The Bahamas’ Government and Public Policy Institute,
2019 a record breaking year for tourism
LAST year was a “record breaking" one for tourism, with the country hitting the highest recorded number of stopover visitors in its history, according to the Ministry of Tourism’s Director General Joy Jibrilu. Speaking at a press conference at the B
Munroe: Drug reform a 'dishonest' agenda
ATTORNEY Wayne Munroe, QC, has accused the Minnis administration of “dishonesty” as it tackles marijuana reform, insisting the government wants to garner political support and restrict cultivators and suppliers of the the drug. On Tuesday, Prime Min
Minnis on marijuana 'a publicity stunt' - PLP
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis downplayed the potential impact of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ declaration that he supports prison release of those convicted for having small amounts of marijuana. Calling it a publicity st
No travel restrictions imposed over China virus
THE Bahamas has not been advised to impose any travel or trade restrictions following the deadly coronavirus outbreak that has spread from China to the United States, health officials revealed yesterday. In a press statement, the Ministry of Health
Woman in hospital after being shot by armed robber
A WOMAN is in hospital after she was shot by an armed robber outside her home, police said. Shortly after 11pm on Tuesday, a woman had just arrived at her home on Jumbey Drive, Golden Gates, when she was approached by an armed man who shot her befor
Cable gets $31m less for US exit
Cable Bahamas’ top executive yesterday conceded the $31m drop in the price received for exiting the US was “warranted”, but said: “It’s still a massive return for investors.” Franklyn Butler, the BISX-listed communications provider’s chief executive
Cavalier's collapse sparks lien law call
The Bahamas Society of Engineers (BSE) president yesterday said Cavalier Construction’s collapse has again exposed the “critical” need to end a 25-year wait for construction industry lien laws. Quentin Knowles told Tribune Business that such legisla
Bahamas in 37% January tourism bookings swing
The Bahamas enjoyed a near-37 percent positive swing on January stopover bookings within six weeks, it was revealed yesterday, eliminating fears that tourism officials needed to “pack and go home”.Joy Jibrilu, the Ministry of Tourism’s director-gener
IPO plan for $170m renewable vehicle
Bahamian investors will ultimately be given the opportunity to own the government’s $170m renewable energy financing vehicle through a public share offering, it has been revealed. An Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report obtained by Tribune B
‘VICTORY TRAIN’: Minnis sets sights on winning next election in 2022
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis laid the foundation for the Free National Movement’s re-election campaign during a rally last night.
Evacuees moving to 90-day hotel
FIFTY rooms at the Poinciana Inn will temporarily shelter Hurricane Dorian victims in an agreement between the government and the hotel, the Ministry of Social Services announced yesterday.
‘LAUGHABLE’: Davis blasts govt over explanation on Pointe permits
THE government's disappointment in the ratio of foreign workers to Bahamian labour at The Pointe is "laughable," according to Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip "Brave" Davis.
Trial begins of trio accused of murdering four and injuring six in 2013
THE trial of three men accused of the 2013 Fox Hill mass shooting that killed four people and injured six others got underway yesterday. Jurors heard the prosecution plans to call the fourth occupant of the car used in the drive-by shooting as one o
Dead woman had been strangled and immersed in water, court told
A WOMAN who was found murdered nearly three years ago on Valentine’s Day in Eight Mile Rock, Grand Bahama had been strangled and immersed in water, the Grand Bahama Supreme Court heard yesterday.
Free fruit to push healthy kids diet
THE Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, announced yesterday the launch of a pilot programme to help encourage healthier eating habits among young people.
Buddy Hield reflects on his first loss in Miami
BUDDY Hield suffered his first loss in Miami but says the strong Bahamian support is always present at the American Airlines Arena.Hield finished with 20 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, three steals and two blocked shots in the Sacramento King
Ayton shows potential as Suns win 4 of last seven
THE Suns have won four of their last seven games and Deandre Ayton has exhibited the potential the franchise eagerly anticipated this season.The second year centre is averaging 21.3 points and 12.7 rebounds during that stretch. Ayton scored 20 points
Romad Dean and Paul Greene named to boys nominees list
A PAIR of Bahamian prep basketball players have had standout seasons in their first year with new programmes in Canada and have now been nominated for the country’s premier showcase. Paul Greene and Romad Dean were two of 198 players named BioSteel
Team Bahamas defeat Panama in consolation round of World Junior Tennis Girls 14s NCAC Pre-Qualifier
TEAM Bahamas was successful in the consolation round yesterday at the World Junior Tennis (WJT) Girls 14s North, Central American and Caribbean Pre-Qualifying Tournament. They defeated Panama 3-0 with a 6-2, 6-0 win from No.1 Sierra Rodgers and 6-2,
Bail denied to man, 31, accused of causing harm
A GRAND Bahama man was charged in the Freeport Magistrates' Court yesterday in connection with a video that was posted on social media of him allegedly punching another man. Wayne Garnett Barr Jr, 31, of Coco Plum Street, Pioneers Loop, appeared bef
Charged with death threats
A 27-year-old Freeport man was arraigned on several serious offences, including making death threats and assaulting a police officer. Antwaun Outten, a resident of Watergate Apartments, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson. He is
Who's on Pointe duty?
The Pointe Heads of Agreement (HOA) was signed on June 18th, 2015 but held before being tabled on January 2nd, 2017 (election May, 2017) Article: 3 of HOA requires the developer to sub-contract 40% of the gross value of the development construction…does anyone at OPM – Works know what portion was?
We should be compelled by our values
The imperceptive neo-conservative from the north, Kevin Evans, proved yet again that talking fool is a very serious thing.
Unwanted rather than unborn
Re: ‘There’s No Choice’
Wolfe wins his first Korn Ferry Tour title
The second event on the Korn Ferry Tour and the second in The Bahamas in as many weeks concluded yesterday at the Baha Mar resort.American Jared Wolfe separated himself from the field on the back nine at The Bahamas Great Abaco Classic at Baha Mar an
Pedestrian killed in collision with car
POLICE are warning drivers to be careful on the road after a female pedestrian in New Providence lost her life in a traffic collision on Tuesday night.
Oil explorer to 'showcase' £2m fund to big investors
Advisers to a Bahamas-based oil explorer will showcase its £2m investment fund to sophisticated and institutional investors during a presentation at Luciano’s this week.The BPC Investment Fund, which began taking investor subscriptions on January 6,
Bahamian broker 'in perfect storm'
A Bahamian broker/dealer yesterday said it was caught in “a perfect storm” after becoming embroiled in a scheme that has allegedly cost thousands of small investors a collective $4m-$5m.Anthony Stubbs, IX Capital Group’s chief executive, told Tribune
'Enough is enough' over GB's airport
The government was yesterday urged to “bite the bullet” and move rapidly to acquire the Grand Bahama International Airport, with a prominent hotelier blasting: “Enough is enough.”Magnus Alnebeck, the Pelican Bay resort’s general manager, voiced fears
Realtor appoints new sales agent
Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has appointed Sarah Chemaly as the latest agent to join its sales team. Lana Rademaker, Damianos Sotheby’s chief brokerage officer, said: “We’re excited to be kicking off the New Year with a new team member. S
Stopover arrivals up 8.1% in ‘record’ 2019
The Bahamas shrugged-off Hurricane Dorian’s impact to enjoy “a record-breaking tourism year” as total 2019 stopover arrivals increased by 8.1 percent to 1.78m.
Downtown chief pledges area’s ‘transformation’
The Downtown Nassau Partnership’s (DNP) managing director yesterday pledged that Bahamians and tourists will witness “a major transformation” of the area “within the next two to three years”.
GB ‘really getting back’ into tourism
The Bahamas’ top tourism official yesterday said Grand Bahama was “really getting back into business” with 84 percent of hotels, and 55 percent of the island’s attractions, now receiving visitors.
Wednesday, January 22
EDITORIAL: The slow revolution on marijuana
AT long last, the slow-motion progress of the marijuana commission has seen Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis receive the preliminary report.
ALICIA WALLACE: Stir the pot - it might just produce the change you need
Whether at work, school, or other institutions, we all have to, at some point and with some regularity, attend meetings. Assemblies, check-ins, updates, services, training and conferences all bring us to a space with other people with connections to the institution or topic at hand.
Ballpoint pen killer loses sentence appeal
A man has failed at his bid to have the Court of Appeal overturn his near decade-long sentence for stabbing another man to death with a ballpoint pen 13 years ago. The Court of Appeal dismissed France Louis’ appeal of his nine-year sentence for kill
Third man faces Coconut Grove murder charge
A THIRD man has been charged with murdering a 23-year-old man in the Coconut Grove community last year. Stephon Davis, of Ridgeland Park, was charged before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt with murdering Keion Butler on August 13. Davis’ arr
Time to open debate on abortion, urges priest
DEBATE needs to begin on abortion so that arguments of those supporting and opposing the issue can be heard, said one religious leader. Father James Palacious, an Anglican priest, said while he is pro-life, he understands that there ought to be a na
Turnquest confirms senior official has quit Bahamasair
BAHAMASAIR Chairman Tommy Turnquest has confirmed the resignation of the airline’s director of maintenance, Prince Storr. Mr Turnquest said Mr Storr resigned on Monday and the airline is looking internally to fill the vacancy. He confirmed that Mr.
‘PLP did nothing to support drug reform’
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday hit back at the Official Opposition over its criticisms of government’s handling of research geared toward the decriminalisation of marijuana.
Foulkes concern with ratio of foreign workers at Pointe
MINISTER of Labour Dion Foulkes said yesterday the government “is very disappointed” with the disproportionate ratio of Bahamians to foreign workers at The Pointe’s construction site and is currently in talks with its management to resolve the issue.
BPL: One-third of Out Island generation ‘at end of its life’
Around one-third of Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) Family Island power generation capacity is “at or beyond the end of its life”, an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report revealed yesterday.
PI hotel unveils downtown ferry
A major Paradise Island hotel plans to transport guests by boat to downtown Nassau twice a day to give them a “new experience”, its general manager has revealed.Benjamin Davis, the Warwick hotel’s senior executive, told Tribune Business: “We plan to
Minister to 'tighten' up work permits
A Cabinet minister yesterday said he was behind a planned “tightening” of understudy programmes so that Bahamians are properly trained up to replace expatriate work permit holders. Dion Foulkes, minister of labour, said outside the Cabinet Office th
Bed crisis forces PMH to cancel ops again
ELECTIVE surgeries at Princess Margaret Hospital have once again been cancelled due to overcrowding at the public hospital, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands revealed yesterday.
Saxons 'official winner of Boxing Day parade'
THE Shell Saxons Superstars have emerged as the official winner of the 2019 Boxing Day parade after a penalty reversal, according to a group official.
China virus monitoring stepped up
LOCAL health officials have heightened surveillance for a new coronavirus, a deadly respiratory infection, that has spread from China to the United States.
SET THEM FREE: Minnis backs jail release for ‘small’ marijuana users
DECLARING that Bahamian marijuana users should not be considered criminals, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he supports releasing from prison those convicted for having small amounts of the drug once the proper reforms and legal mechanisms are enacted.
NIB rate may rise to cover deficits
THE government has not yet made a decision on whether National Insurance Board contribution rates will increase, Public Service and National Insurance Minister Brensil Rolle said yesterday.
Rashad Fenton gives Super Bowl a dash of Bahamian flavour
WHETHER you’re a fan or not, Bahamians will have some local flavour to pull for the Kansas City Chiefs during the National Football League’s 2020 Super Bowl in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Sunday, February 2. On Sunday, the Chiefs pulled off a 35-24 v
ITF World Juniors: Bahamas fall to Dominican Republic
The Bahamas’ three-member team’s bid to get a high ranking in the International Tennis Federation’s World Junior Tennis Tournament was thwarted after losing to the host Dominican Republic.In the first round of the girls’ main draw play in the North/C
Ayton posts fourth straight double double
PHOENIX (AP) — Bryn Forbes lived a shooter’s dream during the first half on Monday night, making seven 3-pointers as the San Antonio Spurs built a big early lead.
NPBA: Giants rout Rebels 99-56, Eagles Nest nip the Pirates 88-87
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants continued their winning streak as they highlighted the New Providence Basketball Association’s doubleheader at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Monday night. In the feature game, the Giants routed the Patmor Rebels 99-56 to
City bowling: Brown and Hoyte are the MVPS
THE most valuable player (MVP) in the City Bowling League competition Monday night was Mario Brown of the Tenback Strikers-Lee’s Motor Works with a 222-second high game and a 639 high three-game series. The runner-up was Alcondo Hepburn with a 24
Macedonia Baptist Church's Family Fun Walk Race a success
REV Foster Knowles, making a surprise visit before he came to preach on Sunday, won the men’s overall title, while fitness personality Jackie Adderley emerged as the female winner of Macedonia Baptist Church’s Family Fun Walk Race. The event was hel
Abortion on demand is just murder
I must commend The Tribune for its stellar job in engaging in investigative journalism.
We must reduce CO2 emissions
So single plastic bags and items are banned with brilliance we introduce a reusable bag of plastic material content you really think those bags are not going to be left on the beach or dropped into the water? Do they biodegrade? Then what do the environmentalists propose? We get rid of those bags which were the substitute for the old food store bags? Try again?
Campaign financing should be published
Campaign financing is spending money to influence a political vote for a candidate or a referendum. Political parties and candidates need money to publish their platform, offer incentives to vote, and inflate their suitableness for political position. The aphorism whoever has the gold makes the rule is normative, globally and locally. To limit the influence of money to dictate the decision making process for who gets elected and what they do when in power is paramount.
Minister hopes terminated airport staff will be re-hired
A Cabinet minister yesterday voiced hope that some of the 11 terminated Grand Bahama International Airport (GBIA) staff “may be reengaged”. Dion Foulkes, minister of labour, said: “I want to confirm that 11 persons at the GBIA in Freeport were laid o
Minister 'won't jump gun' on increasing NIB rates
The government has yet to decide whether National Insurance Board (NIB) contribution rates will increase to safeguard its financial sustainability, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.Brensil Rolle, pictured, minister for the public service and Nationa
Govt working to get Cavalier staff due severance
The Ministry of Labour was yesterday working with Cavalier Construction to ensure the 54 employees it terminated last week receive all the severance pay and benefits due to them under the law. Dion Foulkes, minister of labour, said his ministry was i
Demand for Bahamas up 23% before Dorian
Demand for a Bahamas vacation increased by almost 23 percent year-over-year prior to Hurricane Dorian striking the northern islands, Expedia has revealed. Executives with the online travel agent and search engine revealed that for the period from Ja
Tuesday, January 21
Traumatised by wigs? Bahamian men weigh in on hairy controversy
WHEN it comes to beauty accessories, wigs have become a woman’s best friend. They are relatively easy to install, versatile when it comes to styling, and can give you a professional salon look without too much effort and in record-breaking time.
Doctors, nurses have all had lump sum payments
ALL remaining doctors and nurses qualifying for the $1,400 lump sum promised by the government in December 2019 have been paid, according to a Public Hospitals Authority official. PHA Deputy Managing Director Lyrone Burrows told The Tribune that all
EDITORIAL: The law must be upheld
The Tribune investigation that revealed the sale of abortion pills without prescription has, inevitably, prompted calls for abortion laws to be changed.
Darville calls for urgency over Acklins school issues
SENATOR Michael Darville has urged the government to “move with a sense of urgency” to resolve Acklins Central High School’s issues. The Progressive Liberal Party spokesman on health and education claimed the Department of Environmental Health Servi
Jury selected for mass drive-by shooting trial
A Supreme Court jury was empanelled yesterday for the trial of three men accused of killing four people and wounding seven others during a mass drive-by shooting in the Fox Hill area seven years ago.Jermaine Curry, Peter Rolle and Justin Williams app
FACE TO FACE – Patrice Rebranded: I’ve earned my stripes and love what I’m doing now
When you listen to the radio this week, you’ll likely hear a brand new song to dance to. Patrice Murrell’s latest single is yet another fun, upbeat tune. She is known for her bubbly pizazz; but in 2020, Patrice is showing off a more sophisticated, sexy, chic side of herself.
100 GB airport workers at risk
Government and trade union officials yesterday voiced fears that all 100 employees of the Grand Bahama International Airport Company may be terminated due to the drop-off in flights post-Dorian. John Pinder, director of labour, confirmed to Tribune
Cavalier 'first casualty' of changing industry
Cavalier Construction is "the first casualty of a changing industry model" because it "didn't adapt with the times", an ex-Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president argued yesterday.
Construction 'very strong and healthy' despite Cavalier
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the overall Bahamian construction industry remains “very strong and healthy” despite Cavalier Construction’s decision to cease operations and appoint a liquidator.Desmond Bannister, minister of works, told Tribune Bu
Labour expert: Severance pay 'can be onerous'
The National Tripartite Council’s vice-chairman yesterday admitted that legally-mandated severance payouts “can be onerous” after Cavalier Construction cited them as a key factor in its closure. Peter Goudie told Tribune Business that the Employment
Minister told: 'Make this very first thing for 2020'
An ex-Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president yesterday renewed calls for the government to properly regulate the sector following Cavalier’s failure, adding: “It’s critical to our survival.”Leonard Sands told Tribune Business that fully imp
Activists say abortion ban a factor in illegal pills trade – For some ‘there’s no choice’
LEGISLATION restricting women’s access to reproductive health care has harmed residents and should be the focus of national discourse, not abortion drugs some obtain without a doctor’s prescription because they have no other choice.
Are Valley Boys set to lose crown to Saxons?
QUESTIONS swirled last night about whether the official results of the 2019 Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade strips the Valley Boys of its victory and pushes the Saxons Superstars into first place.
Hayward family’s grief over ‘suicide’
THE family of the late Sir Jack Hayward has expressed shock and sadness over the death of their father’s longtime personal butler Trevor Bethel, who was found dead on Friday morning at his residence off Royal Palm Way.
Police alert after series of armed home invasions
FOLLOWING a string of recent home invasions in the capital, Royal Bahamas Police Force Superintendent Shanta Knowles is urging members of the public to take all necessary precautions to avoid making their homes targets for intruders.
Grand Bahama airport crisis as 100 jobs on the line
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest says the disengagement of workers at the Grand Bahama International Airport is a concern, and that addressing the current situation at the airport is a priority for the government.
U Sports Basketball: Bahamian players shine in Canada colleges
THE Dalhousie Tigers fell one spot in the U Sports Men’s Basketball ranking after their first loss of the season, but rebounded with a pair of wins to highlight weekend play from Bahamians in the top level of Canadian college basketball. Shemarr Bur
Two hurt in separate shooting incidents
TWO New Providence men were taken to hospital after they were shot in separate incidents on Sunday, police said. In the first incident, a group of men were standing in front of a home at Samson Street, Nassau Village, shortly before 7pm when two arm
Bahamas to host major lawyer conference
FOR the first time ever, the Bahamas will host the 22nd Commonwealth Lawyers Conference (CLC) in September 2021, attracting more than 1,000 lawyers and visitors from across the Commonwealth. The four-day conference will be held at Baha Mar from Sept
Marijuana report expected to land on PM's desk today
THE Bahamas National Commission on Marijuana is expected to give Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis its long-awaited report on marijuana this morning. “We did our work,” Bishop Simeon Hall, co-chairman of the commission, said yesterday. “We were mandat
RBDF apprehends over 30 Haitian migrants
OVER two dozen Haitian migrants were apprehended by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force in waters off Ragged Island early yesterday morning. According to a statement from the RBDF, HMBS L L Smith under the command of Senior Lieutenant Shawn Adderley, ac
New solutions for women who have urinary leaks during intimacy
It is the embarrassing secret sadly suffered in silence by thousands of Bahamian women: an uncontrollable loss of bladder control with urinary incontinence during sex.
How to track your progress
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.
Feel the love this Valentine’s Day ‘on the pole’
For the last five years, the team at Girl on Pole as been giving Bahamian women a new way to stay fit and exercise. The dance studio, which not only teaches people how to pole dance, but seeks to help women boost their self-confidence and feel sexy in a judgement-free environment, is once again hosting a special event for Valentine’s Day.
Killer withdraws appeal against sentence
A MAN has withdrawn his appeal against his near 20-year sentence for the role he played in killing three people, including a pregnant woman due to give birth to her son, nine years ago. Timothy Saunders withdrew his appeal yesterday against his 18-y
We need our own airline
THE national airline of The Bahamas – Bahamasair – has been operating for decades in the ignominy of being a “burden” to the citizens of the Bahamas. We hear the narrative all the time “shut it down” when the facts remain that the airline is a tool that has not been utilised effectively to assist in the growth of the Bahamian economy, instead it has been a convenient tool used by the politicians who hypocritically lambaste its lack of performance from the confines of the House of Assembly.
PETER YOUNG: Winners and losers - they still have to work together
To adapt Abraham Lincoln’s famous dictum about not being able to fool all of the people all of the time, it is similarly impossible to please everybody even for some of the time. So to obtain order in the conduct of human affairs, some way has to be found of determining the will of the people. The best means is to consult them and let the majority prevail.
Hield scores 20 against the Heat in overtime loss
MIAMI (AP) — Kendrick Nunn scored 25 points, James Johnson added 22 on 9-for-11 shooting and the Miami Heat improved their NBA-best home record to 19-1 by beating the Sacramento Kings 118-113 in overtime yesterday.Goran Dragic scored 18 and Bam Adeba
International cancer specialists offer their expertise to Bahamians
The Cancer Centre of the Bahamas is currently hosting a series of special clinics which will allow Bahamians access to medical specialists and information on state-of-the-art treatments which they would normally have to travel aboard for.
NPWBA jumps into full gear
THE New Providence Women’s Basketball Association is now in full gear at the DW Davis Gymnasium and president Devon ‘Dee’ Johnson is anticipating a great season.With a total of five teams competing this year, Johnson said since they began a week ago,
NCAA Swim: Multiple wins for Higgs and Bastian
ALBURY Higgs and Izaak Bastian had multiple wins in their latest NCAA Division I meets as programmes prepare for their respective conference championships next month. Higgs helped her South Carolina Gamecocks to a 197-103 win over the Georgia Tech Y
Team Bahamas in the spotlight at World Juniors
TEAM Bahamas stood at 1-1 at the World Junior competition in Santo Domingo after the first two days of competition over the weekend. The team, coached by Marion Bain, comprised of Sierra Rodgers, BreAnn Ferguson and Sapphire Ferguson. The Bahamas o
Coleby signs deal to join the top league in Italy
DWIGHT Coleby is on the move again after he signed a deal to join the top league in Italy for the remainder of the season. Coleby joined Dinamo Banco di Sardegna Sassari of Italy’s Lega Basket Serie A. The club is currently the European Cup Champion
Tanesha finds a new purpose
“Though she be but little she is fierce.” This quote by Shakespeare fits Tanesha Jemison perfectly. At age 35, this petite mom-of-three has had her fair share of challenges – being abandoned by her mother at age five, a brush with assault, living in an environment which instilled fear in her, and an injury which changed the course of her career. But today, she believes her life is finally on the right track.
Start battling aging skin today
We all have a different genetic code that determines how we age. It is permanently imprinted on your DNA whether you will get crows’ feet or brow furrows, develop acne, and how quickly you’ll tan or burn. Although genetics play a part in how we age, our lifestyle and diet are also major contributing factors. Aging is inescapable. However, the way we age isn’t, and you can fight it. You can have a vibrant complexion and enjoy beautiful skin at any age, provided you start now.
Atlantis Team Members support Susan G Komen Race For The Cure
Having served as a corporate sponsor for the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure since its inception in the Bahamas, Atlantis saw numerous employees brave lower than normal temperatures last Saturday morning to show their support for those battling cancer as well as cancer survivors.
Customs overhauls to focus on 'best practice'
A $1.38m consultancy contract will examine whether Bahamas Customs’ operating procedures meet “best practices” in a global trade environment, the deputy prime minister said yesterday.K Peter Turnquest explained that TTEK will examine the “overall str
Realtor unveils its 2019 aces
Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has unveiled the winners of the 2019 Agent Circle of Excellence Award (ACE).Shane Cash, who focuses mainly on sales in the Hope Town, Abaco, market earned the title for June 2019, while New Providence-based Jac
Post-Dorian assistance means entrepreneurs will 'BEE' fine
An initiative to train Bahamians in the production of honey and other bee-related products has received a much-needed post-Hurricane Dorian boost. The category five storm inflicted major losses on young beekeepers who had entered the programme, a jo
Water union president rejects election fears
The courts will be the “final adjudicator” of the Water and Sewerage Management Union’s (WSMU) elections and dispute with the Department of Labour, its president said yesterday. Responding to concerns that union elections were held last year Novembe
Monday, January 20
EDITORIAL: Alarm bells over drugs and health
THE investigation in today’s Tribune that revealed the sale of abortion drugs despite the lack of a prescription has rung several alarm bells.
Road access still blocked after Dorian
FIVE months after Hurricane Dorian, road access in some private subdivisions in East Grand Bahama are still blocked. Some residents say the state of the community poses safety risks. Boats are still blocking roadways, and there are also downed pole
'No degradation of 51 bodies kept in cooler'
THE Ministry of Health criticised Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin’s “insensitive” and “reckless” claims that the bodies of Hurricane Dorian victims in Abaco are creating a “stench” because the container in which they are stored is not cooling adequ
Police hunt for armed men who invaded home
POLICE are looking for a group of men responsible for a home invasion and robbery that occurred on Sunday. Police said around 3am yesterday, a group of armed men forced their way into a home on Joe Farrington Road, “held residents at bay” and robbed
BPL has no coherent plan, says PLP leader
OPPOSITION Leader Philip “Brave” Davis demanded the Minnis administration “come clean” on what it plans to do with Bahamas Power and Light. He spoke after BPL Chairman Dr Donovan Moxey said last week the company intends to sell Stations A and D at t
Bahamian accused of cocaine possession
A BAHAMIAN man was arrested at Lynden Pindling International Airport on Saturday after he was allegedly found in possession of cocaine. According to reports. shortly after noon, the man presented himself to a US customs officer after checking in for
INSIGHT: What price are we paying for the cruise industry?
LUXURY cruise brands operated by Carnival Corporation & PLC emitted 10 times more air pollution in Europe than all of the continent’s vehicles combined, accorrding to an international study.
Sir Jack's former butler in suicide probe
GRAND Bahama police are continuing investigations into an apparent suicide of a man who is believed to the former long-time butler of the late Sir Jack Hayward of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, and who was embroiled in a legal battle over his inter
INSIGHT: Setting the ground rules for a marijuana industry
THE recent leak of the Bahamas National Commission on Marijuana’s preliminary report has brought the topic of marijuana decriminalisation back to the fore.
Closure fear at Cavalier job cuts
Fears were growing last night that one of The Bahamas’ largest and best-known construction companies has shut down permanently with some 54 employees already terminated.
BPL cuts bond to $580m raise
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) has cut the target for its upcoming bond issue to $580m as it places reliance on “selling our turnaround strategy” to obtain the credit rating it needs.
Bahamians trapped in 'double dependency'
Many Bahamians “lack the means to live” and are caught in a “double dependency syndrome” that relies on the government to provide growth and jobs, an economic observer argued yesterday. Dr Johnathan Rodgers, pictured , the well-known eye doctor, tol
BPL staff must know ‘the customer is king’
All Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) staff “must know the customer is king”, a union leader has charged, arguing: “We’ve got to make this utility a lean, mean, fighting machine.”
Scalding oil thrown at woman in family row
A MAN threw hot liquid on a woman and caused burns to her body, police say.
Vasyli begs to avoid murder retrial
THE country’s highest court is currently mulling over whether to overturn a lower court’s decision to order that Donna Vasyli be retried of the stabbing death of her millionaire podiatrist husband five years ago.
Wrap up warm - it’s going to get cold
Wrap up warm folks because we’re going to get a wintry blast across The Bahamas later this week. With a cold front coming in from the north west overnight temperatures are going to go down quicker than an ice cold Kalik.
Secret trade in abortion tablets: Chemists selling drug without demanding doctors’ presciptions
THE illegal sale of a drug obtained without a prescription but used to cause abortions has been uncovered by The Tribune.
WORLD VIEW: Why CARICOM had no national for OAS top job
READERS of Barbados newspapers were exposed recently to the views of John Beale, one of the country’s former Ambassadors to the Organisation of American States (OAS), on the forthcoming election for the post of Secretary-General. Because Mr Beale served at the OAS and did sterling work, his views on the Secretary-Generalship of the OAS deserve attention.
Another 114 Haitians are expelled from country
THE Department of Immigration expelled more than 100 Haitians on Saturday. According to a press release, the group of 114 Haitians left New Providence on a Bahamasair flight at 7.30am to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, escorted by a team of law enforcement o
Home repairs poised to start
THE Disaster Reconstruction Authority is scheduled to begin its home repair programme for Hurricane Dorian victims in Grand Bahama and Abaco early next month. The programme, set to begin the first week of February, will involve vouchers being disper
Time to ground the dinosaurs of Bahamasair
Seldom have we seen politicians over-react to a tempest in a tea-cup like we have seen over Bahamasair and whether or not three of their aircraft can enter US airspace.
An idealistic pipe dream
Re: Former MP: Bahamas Needs To Heal Racial Divide. The Tribune, January 10, 2020.
SBC's work on mending racial fences commendable
With a membership of approximately 15 million -- 85 percent being Caucasian -- the largest Protestant denomination in the US, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), has a checkered past in race relations, which had spanned well over a century since its formation in the mid-nineteenth century.
Boothe makes history with Marathon Bahamas victory
A testament to his consistency and longevity in the sport, Delroy Boothe returned as the overall winner of Marathon Bahamas in 2020, a decade after his first win at the event.
Radshad has record setting night, reaches 1,000 career points
IT was a record-setting night of career milestones for Radshad Davis in his final season with the Texas-Arlington Mavericks men’s basketball programme.Davis posted his second double double of the year with a season-high 19 points, a career high 14 re
Athletes burn up the track and field overseas
SPRINTER Samson Colebrook, jumper Laquan Nairn and quarter-milers Doneisha Anderson and Cameron Parker were among the list of Bahamians who performed exceptionally well in their various collegiate track and field meets around the United States over t
Rattlers stop Mystic Marlins, stay undefeated
IN a matchup of unbeaten teams, the CI Gibson Rattlers staked an early claim as the GSSSA senior boys team to beat in a possible championship preview.The Rattlers used a three-point barrage in the fourth quarter to pull away and hand the Mystic Marli
NPBA: High Flyers and rockets in win column
THE New Providence Basketball Association continued its regular season action over the weekend with a series of games played at the AF Adderley Gymnasium. Here’s a summary of the games played: Flyers 84, Shockers 69 Dale Davis pumped in a double-do
Union's election action given court go-ahead
The Water and Sewerage Corporation’s management union (WSMU) has been given permission to proceed with its Judicial Review action over alleged government interference in its elections. Supreme Court Justice, Indra Charles, last week allowed the unio
Bahamas in 'good shape' on petroleum price fears
A top petroleum executive says The Bahamas in “pretty good shape” on short-term fuel costs as the global oil market has not “reacted as strongly” to the US and Iranian stand-off as initially feared. Keith Glinton, regional manager for Sol Petroleum B
Government bidding reform 'revolutionary'
More than 400 businesses were represented at the Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB) first-ever Bahamian procurement fair in a bid to increase their share of its $292m in locally-funded projects. Marlon Johnson, the Ministry of Finance’s acting
Realtor's top agents list $56m in property
Damianos Sotheby’s International Realty has unveiled its top listing agents for 2019, with the best performing duo handling $56m worth of property. That was Mark Hussey and Bianca Aranha, who were the realtor’s overall top listing agents. Mitzi Pear
Customs crackdown to find $15m minimum in lost funds
A Customs Department consultant has pledged to identify no less than $15m in uncollected revenue when its eight-month effort to crack down on leakages begins today. The Ministry of Finance, in a statement issued yesterday, confirmed that TTEK Inc ha
GB Power to restore island's east by May
Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) has pledged to restore electricity distribution to the island’s eastern end by May 2020 through rebuilding 35 miles of transmission lines.“We’re continuing the challenging work of clean-up of downed wires, poles and
Shipping firm 'locks' down its deliveries
A Bahamian shipping company has promised to take the “hustle and bustle” out of picking up packages outside business hours by offering “lock boxes” at no extra cost. Tomonique Butterfield, operations manager for Go Postal, told Tribune Business that
Sunday, January 19
San Salvador Government Administration Building destroyed in fire
Police on San Salvador are investigating after a fire destroyed the Government Administration Building on Friday.
Saturday, January 18
Romauld Ferreira: Plastics ban ‘right thing to do’
Minister of the Environment Romauld Ferreira insisted it was “the right thing to do” for the country to tackle the dependency of plastic use amid the public push back of the single-use plastic ban.
Friday, January 17
Samaritan’s Purse president Franklin Graham visits tent field hospital in Freeport
FRANKLIN Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, travelled to Grand Bahama on Friday where he visited the tent field hospital that his organisation is operating in Freeport.
Ragged Island renewable electrical grid to be completed this year
THE construction of the electrical grid set to bring renewable energy to storm-ravaged Ragged Island is set to be completed this year.
Hanna Martin calls for 'dignified' removal of hurricane victims' bodies
MP for Englerston, Glenys Hanna Martin is calling for the “dignified and respectful” removal of bodies which were stored after Hurricane Dorian.
Canadian renewable energy firms share expertise
CANADIAN High Commissioner Laurie Peters held a Reconstruction and Resilience Forum Friday to introduce local contractors to a delegation of Clean-Tech and infrastructure companies that can assist with Hurricane Dorian restoration efforts.
Ministry 'open about its challenges engaging teachers'
THE Ministry of Education has been open about its challenges engaging teachers for the public school system, according to acting Director of Education Marcellus Taylor.
Apparent suicide in Grand Bahama investigated
POLICE are investigating an apparent suicide that happened in Grand Bahama on Friday.
DIANE PHILLIPS: If your hands are full, what else can a girl do?
Here comes a group of women, all belonging to the same church. There’s something awry about their shape so you wonder if it has to do with their particular form of worship or was it what they served after Sunday School?
EDITORIAL: Pledges and politics
IT started off as an event widely hailed as a good thing.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Another timely lesson from the US on marijuana
AS our National Commission on the legalisation and decriminalisation of marijuana is now operating at a breakneck pace, to legalise and decriminalise marijuana, both medicinally and recreationally, on the heels of Prime Minister Minnis’ endorsing the legalisation and decriminalisation of marijuana in the Bahamas.
Darville adds his voice to oppose charging shoppers for plastic bags
SAVE the Bays Chairman Joseph Darville has joined the chorus of people calling on the government to abandon the 25 cents to $1 fee merchants are mandated to charge customers for single-use plastic bags. The environmentalist said while he supports th
Don't be too quick to dismiss pledges, warns Forbes-Smith
KATHERINE Smith, managing director of Disaster Reconstruction Authority, has expressed her dismay over criticisms about pledges made during the Hurricane Dorian Pledging Conference held on Monday. While speaking to reporters in Grand Bahama on Wedne
Man, 26, admits having assault rifle
A 26-year-old man was remanded in custody for seven weeks to await his sentencing for being caught with a prohibited assault rifle and 30 rounds of illegal ammunition earlier this week. Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt said Levan Cliff Bannist
Alleged child abductor to stand trial in June
ALLEGED child abductor De’Edra Gibson will stand trial in six months’ time charged with abducting four little boys, one as young as three, from various places in New Providence between February and March of last year. Justice Bernard Turner said the
Sea level rise threat to 15% of Bahamas' GDP
The Bahamas is among the top four nations forecast to be hit hardest by rising sea levels, a rating agency warned yesterday, with up to 15 percent of annual GDP and 11 percent of its people in peril. Moody’s, unveiling an assessment about the long-t
BPL’s 15% fee ‘cost neutral’ by August
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) is hoping to make the extra charge associated with its $650m refinancing “cost neutral” for consumers by August 2020, its chairman revealed yesterday.
BPL chair admits: ‘We’ve lost trust of our customers’
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chairman yesterday admitted the utility has “lost the trust of most of our consumers”, while also conceding: “Our customer service is terrible.”
Shell: Bahamas 'front runner' on clean energies
A Shell executive yesterday said The Bahamas can be “a real front runner” in adopting cheaper, more environmentally-friendly fuels through New Providence’s proposed new multi-fuel power plant.Markus Hector, Shell LNG marketing and trading’s general m
Residents to receive $500m in reinsurace
The Central Bank’s governor yesterday said Bahamas residents were in line to receive 50 percent of the more than $1bn in reinsurance settlement inflows to cover Hurricane Dorian losses. John Rolle told the Bahamas Business Outlook conference: “Colle
‘Silly, confused and uninformed’ – Minnis turns on critics over statements made after pledge conference
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis accused critics yesterday of making “silly, confused and uniformed statements” about Monday’s pledge conference for Hurricane Dorian recovery efforts.
‘Intimidation claims are baseless allegations’
COMMISSIONER of the Department of Correctional Services Charles Murphy has called claims that he victimised and intimidated correctional officers “baseless allegations”.
PM’s brother and lawyer both deny harm claim
CYRIL “Boxer” Minnis, the brother of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, and lawyer Tiffany Dennison were both formally charged in the Freeport Magistrates Court in connection with an incident which occurred at the Registrar General’s Office in Grand Bahama.
I'm pleased but we could do better, says Turnquest
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest is generally pleased with relief distribution in Grand Bahama but admits that a “better job can be done” concerning the dispersal of building materials to residents in East End.“It is taking longer than we are li
Megan Moss named Women's Co-Freshman of the Week
SHE has just gotten started, but already Megan Moss has established herself as one of the top female sprint contenders in the Southeastern Conference.The St Augustine’s College graduate, now in her freshman year at the University of Kentucky under th
3,000 homes assessed for hurricane damage
OVER 3,000 homes have been assessed for hurricane damage to date by the Department Social Services on Grand Bahama. Assistant Director of Social Services Paula Marshall revealed on Wednesday that the department has completed 3,050 home assessments o
Govt planning to speed up the removal of debris from Abaco
THE government is looking at several alternatives to help speed up the process of debris removal in Abaco this year, according to Chairman of Disaster and Reconstruction Authority John-Michael Clarke.“We want to speed up the (clean-up) process this y
Chinese held after trying to get into US by yacht
A NUMBER of Chinese nationals and one Bahamian were detained by American officials after attempting to illegally enter the United States by boat last year. A dozen Chinese and one Bahamian were smuggled from The Bahamas to South Florida by luxury ya
Activists urge big fines for Carnival
ACTIVISTS had harsh words about Carnival’s illegal dumping in Bahamian waters, calling for the cruise line to be heavily fined. Phoebe Shaw, campaign director of “Stop Disney – Last Chance for Lighthouse Point”, said the latest news of Carnival Crui
Minister aims to bring unity in sports
The year 2020 has already brought some historic moments to the Bahamas with the opening of the new North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) office at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.But according to Minister of Youth, Sports and
Motorcyclist dies in accident
A motorcyclist in New Providence was killed in traffic accident on Wednesday night. Police reported the incident happened shortly after 11pm at West Bay Street and St Alban’s Drive involving a motorcycle and a white 2013 Ford E-350 van. The motorcy
Rapists should be flogged in public
I am deeply saddened after reading news of a woman being sexually violated by a sex beast during a home invasion in the Marshall Road area of New Providence.
Hield and the Kings suffer third straight loss
FRUSTRATION continues to mount within the Sacramento Kings locker room and with fans at the Golden 1 Center as the team continues to descend deeper into the basement of the Western Conference standings. Buddy Hield scored 25 points but shot just 3-1
Boxer Carl Hield has fists set on Tokyo Olympics
LOOKING back at his performance in 2019, boxer Carl Hield feels he’s better prepared to contend for a spot on the Bahamas team that will be heading to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.“First of all, I want to give God thanks for winning two gold in
Kai Jones' 5 blocks in 16 minutes helps Longhorns to 76-64 win over Cowboys
KAI Jones set another career high in limited minutes in his freshman season for the Texas Longhorns. Jones had a team leading five blocked shots in just 16 minutes of the Longhorns’ 76-64 win over the Oklahoma State Cowboys Wednesday night at Gallag
Is The Pointe complying with HoA over workers?
The Pointe - has there been compliance with the Heads of Agreement regarding the number of non-Bahamian construction workers?
Lord, please have mercy on our own stupidity
I have concluded that The Bahamas is just like one of the network Soap Operas…should we take politicians seriously - are they serious - do they realise what they say, so regularly?
I was amazed by Pinder comments
I am amazed at the comments made by the Director of Labour, John Pinder, regarding the conditions put forward for the issuing or renewal of Visas (work permits I guess).
Ayton shines as Suns pound Knicks 121-98
NEW YORK (AP) — Deandre Ayton had 26 points and a career-high 21 rebounds, and the Phoenix Suns pounded the New York Knicks 121-98 last night.
Canadian trade mission to 'matchmake' locally
A Canadian diplomat yesterday revealed that 12 of Canada’s most “progressive” companies will be present today for a Dorian-related reconstruction forum being held at the Melia resort. Laurie Peters, Canadian High Commissioner to The Bahamas and Jama
Bahamas ‘top of the heap’ before Dorian
The Bahamas was “top of the heap” prior to Hurricane Dorian with its 17 percent hotel occupancy growth leading the Caribbean, a top regional tourism executive said yesterday.
Thursday, January 16
STATESIDE: Biden scares Trump and he may be right to do so
With everything that’s going on in Washington DC these days, a couple of old aphorisms come to mind. The first one is “where there’s smoke, there’s fire”. Right now, there is so much smoke billowing around Donald Trump’s presidency that it almost obscures the tragic conflagration that is engulfing Australia and its climate-denying prime minister. Literally every day, something new emerges about Trump’s efforts to cheat his way to another term in office.
EDITORIAL: Less talk, more action
A DAY after National Security Minister Marvin Dames took time out of his day to complain about how The Tribune reported his comments about the Commissioner of Police’s time at the helm coming to an end, a matter of more substance landed on his desk.
Court sees video of prosecutor charging towards defendent
SURVEILLANCE footage played in court showed a prosecutor angrily advancing towards a young man he claimed had told others to shoot and stab him because of his role in having one of the man’s friends convicted of a crime.The footage played before magi
100 domes expected in Abaco this month
ONLY a handful of the domes meant to be temporary shelter for Abaco storm victims have arrived on that island, however more than 100 of the structures are expected to arrive before the end of the month. John Michael Clarke, chairman of the Disaster
New doubts emerge over $975m loans offer from US company
FORMER Central Bank Governor James Smith said it is unlikely the government will seek access to $975 million in loans a US-based company pledged during a conference on Monday to raise funds for Hurricane Dorian recovery.
Wilson: Heads should roll over teacher shortage
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson said “heads should roll” due to the “perennial” shortage of teachers, adding more than 100 teachers are still waiting to be placed in schools by the Ministry of Education since the 2019-2020 school year started.
New Indian restaurant adds touch of the orient at Baha Mar
BAHA Mar has added a number of amenities and restaurants to its long list of services for guests to enjoy, including a new dining experience at Rosewood.
Popcorn the puppy enjoys a new life after Dorian
POPCORN the puppy has a new home thanks to the Bahamas Alliance For Animal Rights and Kindness (BAARK).
$1bn pledge centres on health projects
A US group’s $670m proposal to transform Bahamian healthcare infrastructure is just one of “five offers on the table”, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday, adding: “It’s nice to have options.”
BOB's aid to Miller 'above and beyond'
Bank of The Bahamas yesterday said it "went above and beyond" in trying to help Leslie Miller and his family remedy $25-$28m worth of loan facilities that had been "seriously delinquent for years".
Minister ‘not worried’ on Lucayan airport demand
A Cabinet minister yesterday said he is “not worried” that the ITM/Royal Caribbean joint venture wants a government guarantee the airport will be fixed before they close the Grand Lucayan deal.
Chamber director: We have ‘solution’ for work permits
A Chamber of Commerce director yesterday urged labour policymakers to meet with him over a more effective “solution” to their understudy demands, and warned: “Not talking creates problems.”
Law firm pledges ‘full co-operation’ over alleged scam
A major Bahamian law firm yesterday said it will fully co-operate with any local investigation after a former client denied involvement in a much-publicised alleged scam involving a Nigerian oil explorer.
Bethel's return remains unclear
THE Minnis administration gave no answers about Commodore Tellis Bethel’s job status yesterday despite the scheduled end of his three-month vacation leave.
'Polluters must pay with fines that hurt'
THE Bahamas should send a strong message to environmental crime offenders that the country’s natural resources and laws will be respected, according to one stakeholder.
Pinder warned over 'blunt' visa crackdown
GOVERNMENT officials must take care not to promote xenophobic positions that suggest foreign is bad for the country when compared with Bahamian labour, Gowon Bowe told The Tribune yesterday.
Prison officers threaten revolt
CORRECTIONAL officers are threatening to “revolt” over long standing issues and victimisation they allege has come from the actions of Commissioner Charles Murphy.
Sands happy to welcome signing of industrial agreement with CPSA
AFTER several years of negotiations, the Consultant Physicians Staff Association officially signed its first industrial agreement with the Public Hospitals Authority yesterday. Noting the move was a long one in the making, Health Minister Dr Duane S
Shooting leaves man in hospital
POLICE are investigating a shooting that left a man in hospital on Wednesday. Police were told that shortly after 1am, a man was sitting in his vehicle in the parking lot of a night club located on Ludlow Street, when he heard gunshots. The man then
It's time to get serious about recycling
We love to belly-ache about government policy after it becomes law instead of demanding more transparency during the law-making process.
Slavery in our democracy
The ban on plastic bags is a welcome change in the right direction.
Malik Joseph posting major numbers
Bahamian junior national basketball team standout Malik Joseph is posting major numbers in his senior season and is garnering more attention on the recruiting circuit.
American Gainey wins Great Exuma Classic
IN a dramatic finish, American Tommy Gainey took first place at bd Global’s Great Exuma Classic at Sandals Golf Course, Emerald Bay.
Athletes on track as indoor season opens
AS the NCAA Division I Track and Field Indoor season recommenced, several Bahamian athletes turned in nationally ranked performances in their first meets of 2020.
Man accused of killing bar owner gets bail
THE man accused of murdering Via Caffe owner Albert Rahming nearly four years ago has been granted bail ahead of his trial.
BFSB rewarded over industry’s promotion
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) has been honoured with International Investor’s 2020 award for Outstanding Promotion of Financial Services.
Realtor tops firm in just three years
A realtor has become his company’s top producer just three years after he decided to swap accounting for a career in the industry.
Port Authority names corporate affairs head
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has named Philcher Grant as director of group corporate affairs and government relations at its Port Group Ltd affiliate.
Baha Mar executive in marketing honour
A senior Baha Mar executive has been honoured with the 2019 Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International’s (HSMAI) Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds award.
Exuma’s White House readies for the auction
A hill-top Exuma residence known as the White House will be showcased to the world at the end of January when it goes up for sale on Concierge Auctions’ website.
RBC ‘very curious’ on Sand Dollar roll-out
Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) Caribbean chief yesterday pledged it would participate in the roll-out of the digital Bahamian dollar, adding that it was “very curious to see how it’s going to unfold”.
Poultry producer fumes over getting ‘simple things done’
An Abaco-based poultry producer yesterday challenged government assertions that all its services are “up and running”, citing “aggravation” over trying to get “simple things done” on the island.
Wednesday, January 15
EDITORIAL: Work permit threat is a blunt instrument
YOU sometimes wonder if some people in government have experience in business.
LETTER: Be A Hero campaign is a different initiative
I write concerning the Insight column published in The Tribune, Monday, January 13, 2020 titled “Well-intentioned but poorly executed and once again the public takes the hit.”
LETTER: Tales From The Twenties
One hundred years ago, the 1920s, known as the roaring ‘20s, was a decade of prosperity in western society and western culture.
LETTER: Don't let us join this hate fest against Trump
Foreign Affairs Minister Darren Heinfield’s comment to The Tribune about “it not being this country’s place to express support or opposition to the US strike” against Iran may be viewed as the Free National Movement government straddling the fence on a crucially important geopolitical matter. With the US being our most important and strategic ally, I see no reason for not supporting the American government in going after Qasem Soleimani, who was viewed by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as the mastermind behind Iran’s state sponsored terrorism throughout the Middle East region.
Dylan Wu takes 36-hole lead at Bahamas Great Exuma Classic
AFTER a 5-under 67 on Sunday led to a T2 position entering the second round, Dylan Wu carded a front-nine 31 and an eventual 66 on Monday to open up a seven-stroke lead on the field.
NPBA: High Flyers and Pirates in win column
THE Breezes High Flyers and Asphalt Maintenance Pirates won the New Providence Basketball Association’s double header played at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Monday night.
Dasani & Powerade to hydrate Olympic hopeful Ken Mullings
THE Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC) is proud to hydrate Bahamian decathlon athlete Ken Mullings.
Triple jump legend Willie Banks visits Nassau
VETERAN long-triple jump coach Peter Pratt said he was delighted to renew his relationship with former American world record holder Willie Banks.
Buddy scores 16 in 114-112 loss to Magic
SACRAMENTO, California (AP) — The Orlando Magic made a pair of costly defensive mistakes in the final 80 seconds. Evan Fournier’s quick change of mind and a big shot by Aaron Gordon more than made up for it.
ALICIA WALLACE: It is on us to call politicians out
We are past the halfway mark. The Free National Movement administration has been in place since May 2017, and there were many who did not think it would last. It is unclear how they thought the government would change, but people were convinced there would be an unprecedented shift. We have yet to see it.
Ayton posts double double in 123-110 loss to Hawks
ATLANTA (AP) — Trae Young scored 21 of his 36 points in the fourth quarter and the Atlanta Hawks pulled away late to beat the Phoenix Suns 123-110 last night.
Hunt for three thieves
POLICE are looking for three thieves who robbed two men at a scrap metal site on Monday.
American man in suspected drowning
POLICE are investigating an alleged drowning that occurred on Monday at Half Moon Cay.
Traffic fatality after man crashes into tree
A MAN died after he lost control of his car and crashed into a tree yesterday.
Prosecutor accuses pair of attacking him
A CROWN prosecutor yesterday claimed a young man ordered someone to shoot him last year because of his role in having one of the man’s friends convicted of a crime.
New NACAC office now open
Following the handing over of the baton from immediate past president Victor Lopez to newly elected president Mike Sands, the new North American, Central American and Caribbean office is now open.
June date set for Reckley fraud trial
FORMER Urban Renewal Deputy Director Michelle Reckley will stand trial in June over allegations she defrauded the government of $1.2m via the Urban Renewal Small Homes Repair programme in Grand Bahama.
Sex register set to come in this year
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said yesterday the government is preparing to establish a sex offender registry sometime this year.
Dames: I've got no beef with commissioner
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames insisted yesterday that he has no beef with Commissioner Anthony Ferguson, days after saying the police chief was “nearing the end of his reign” over the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Dorian pledges will be made public soon
A FULL breakdown of all pledges made on Monday during a special pledging conference to aid Hurricane Dorian recovery efforts will be publicly disclosed soon, an official said yesterday.
Straw Market vendors unhappy with treatment
STRAW vendors are once again attacking the government’s firm policy on arrears which has seen dozens close their stalls in recent years.
‘How many more must’ die’ before we reform?
A marine group yesterday said its plan to overhaul watercraft regulation will save lives, generate millions for the government and deter crime, its president asking: “How many more have to die?”
Bahamas enjoys ten to 13% stopover bookings ‘shift’
The Bahamas is enjoying a last-minute “ten to 13 percent shift” in stopover bookings as tourists leave it late to decide whether to visit this nation, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday.
‘Proof in the pudding’ on $1.5bn Dorian donations
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday voiced optimism that $1.5bn in Hurricane Dorian relief pledges will “come to fruition”, but warned: “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.”
Unions ask CIBC buyer: ‘What will the casualties be?’
Trade union leaders yesterday demanded to know “what the casualties are going to look like” as a result of CIBC selling 66.73 percent majority control of FirstCaribbean to a Colombian banking group.
Bishop calls for ‘public outcry’ on Carnival pollution
A prominent Bahamian pastor yesterday said there should be “a public outcry” by the Bahamian people over the latest revelations about Carnival Cruise Lines’ pollution of this nation’s waters.
Govt sought near $1bn for Dorian reconstruction
The government’s post-Dorian reconstruction ‘wish list’ sought almost $1bn in financing to address multiple housing, infrastructure and public services needs extending beyond Abaco and Grand Bahama.
Body cams to win public's confidence
THE Ministry of National Security signed a million-dollar contract with AE Tactical yesterday for body worn and dash cameras, which are expected to be used by police officers this year.
Sex attack on woman in house raid
A WOMAN was sexually assaulted yesterday during an early morning home invasion on Marshall Road.
Was dad of 3 murdered by mistake?
JACQUELIN Francois will never get the chance to see his three young children grow up. The father-of-three was shot dead on Monday night at around 7pm as he stood with a group of men on the side of Montgomery Avenue off Carmichael Road.
'We'll chase Carnival for new pollution'
IN the wake of new reports of Carnival Cruise Lines dumping its waste in Bahamian waters, Attorney General Carl Bethel said the government will seek compensation under recently passed environment laws.
'Time to get tough on work permits'
DEPARTMENT of Labour Director John Pinder wants employers’ work permits revoked if they fail to appoint and properly train apprentices as part of their succession planning.
Tuesday, January 14
EDITORIAL: The greatest help for the greatest need
IN the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, one thing has been heartwarming amid the heartbreak – the support from people around the world.
LETTER: Helping out my son
My son was flunking out of college so I told my son, “You will marry the girl I choose.”
LETTER: Time of the people
Just under 250 years ago an event took place in Boston Harbour that would forever change the world, and in particular the United States of America and Britain. Ostensibly it was to do with Tea but fundamentally it was to do with Britain’s Tea Act which levied a tax of three pennies per pound on Tea imported to the Colonies. The Colonists revolted saying that since they had no representation in Britain, it was not right for Britain to impose any taxes on the Colonies.
LETTER: Racism still a problem
As a youngster back in the 1960’s the United Bahamian Party (UBP) was in full bloom. It emerged after the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and was comprised of what was then known as the Bay Street Boys, who were mostly white or Conchy Joe Bahamians. Of course, there was a small number of black Bahamians who embraced the UBP for whatever reasons. The late Reverend Gentry McPhee and Napoleon McPhee along with the late Prince Hepburn come readily to mind.
PETER YOUNG: How sad for the Queen that Harry and Meghan should walk away
Last week’s bombshell announcement by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex that they had decided to step down as full-time senior royals came suddenly and as a surprise to most people. Buckingham Palace insiders are apparently still reeling from the news despite some saying the signs of Harry and Meghan’s discontent with their existing roles as members of the Royal Family had become increasingly evident, though not to the general public.
FACE TO FACE: 'Softly' Robins - a giant of a man and a legend to many
When we are children, the people who made a great impact always seemed larger than life. As we become adults, we realise they are ordinary, relatable people. It’s just that they do extraordinary things. Charles “Softly” Robins is one of them. He is the father of one of my best friends in high school, Charlis Robins.
Prime Minister disturbed that marijuana report leaked
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he was “very disturbed” that the draft marijuana report was leaked to a local media outlet last month, as he has yet to see the document.
Wilson: Change exam timetable
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson said the Ministry of Education’s decision not to reschedule BJC exams in the wake of Hurricane Dorian will likely have a negative impact on the results.
Harbour Island pupils protest about school conditions
CHANTING “power to the people,” students of Harbour Island All Age School protested yesterday due to a lack of teachers and conditions at the school.
Man's body found
POLICE found a man’s lifeless body at a park on East Bay Street in the area of the Sidney Poitier Bridge yesterday.
Two Americans fail to declare $27,801
TWO American men, ages 51 and 21, were arrested on Sunday after they failed to declare a large sum of US currency.
Victim in hospital after he is shot outside a bar
A MAN is in hospital after he was shot outside a bar on Sunday, police said.
26-year-old dies while waiting in courtroom
A 26-year-old man previously accused of being caught with $100,000 worth of ecstasy pills died suddenly yesterday morning while waiting to be arraigned on new drug charges.
Four men facing murder charges
A 20-year-old man accused of murdering a former police officer yesterday claimed he was beaten with a bat by police while in custody for the crime.
Doctor accused of having child porn
A licenced Bahamian doctor was charged yesterday with being caught with a picture of a teenage boy’s genitals.
Firms warned over failure to comply on plastics
THE Ministry of Environment has found a few businesses not compliant with the law requiring customers to be charged a fee for single-use plastic bags.
Plans to liberalise investment to help encourage rebuilding
THE government plans on liberalising investment in storm-affected areas in order to facilitate the rebuilding efforts post Hurricane Dorian.
Updated building code on the way
THE Ministry of Public Works is working to revise the country’s building code, according to Director of Works Melanie Roach, with anticipates restrictions for flood-prone areas in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.
Lewis: $9m received so far
MINISTER of Disaster Preparedness Iram Lewis said yesterday the government has received some $9 million in donations since the passing of Hurricane Dorian.
Retailer fears on ‘holding the bag’
Bahamian retailers fear losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in plastic bags they cannot sell when the full ban takes effect on June 30, with one admitting: “I miscalculated, and I’m sure others did.”
$1.5bn Dorian pledges to ease govts burden
The deputy prime minister is voicing optimism that the outcome of yesterday’s Dorian pledging conference will reduce the government’s financial strain and enable fiscal consolidation to restart “quicker”.
Govt explores ‘no build’ zones
The government is exploring the creation of “no-build zones” in The Bahamas, a senior Ministry of Works official said yesterday, with Hurricane Dorian’s devastation amplified by construction “shortcuts”.
Bahamas uses 78% of Dorian relief donations
The government’s Disaster Reconstruction Authority has deployed 78 percent of the $9m in pledges received to-date, its presiding minister said yesterday.
Lord Coe to open NACAC office in New Providence
Following the successful hosting of the first three editions of the International Amateur Athletic Federation’s World Relays, World Athletics’ President Lord Sebastian Coe said he’s delighted to be back to launch the opening of the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) office.
‘Young Lion’ Amron Sands in training camp with Wilder
BAHAMIAN pro boxer Amron Sands had the opportunity of a lifetime - to work closely and learn from the most dominant heavyweight in boxing today. Sands participated in training camp alongside WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder as the latter prepares for his upcoming title defense next month against Tyson Fury.
Empower Sports Network in Canada Bahamas exchange
EMPOWER Sports Network (ESN) seeks to solidify its plans of establishing an exchange programme between the Bahamas and Canada for aspiring student athletes on the basketball court.
High schoolers take advantage of soccer stars programme
THE Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s Student-Athlete Resources & Support (STARS) Programme provides Bahamian high school student-athletes with the tools they need to extend their educational and athletic experience beyond high school, to the collegiate level and beyond while empowering them to become strong leaders in and out of the classroom and on and off the playing field, and helping them successfully integrate into society as responsible citizens.
After surgery, Serena Brown expects to make impact with Hawkeyes in Big 10
SHE has been out of action for the past year, recuperating from surgery to repair her rotator cuff. But now Serena Brown has settled in at the University of Iowa where she expects to make an impact in the Big 10 Conference for the Hawkeyes, making the switch from the Texas A&M Aggies and the Southeastern Conference.
roker and x-men upset tigers
AZARO Roker and StFX X-Men scored the biggest upset of the Men’s U SPORTS college basketball season with a thrilling win over Shemarr Burrows, Jordan Wilson and the No. 2 ranked Dalhousie Tigers.
Lopez: NACAC in ‘great hands’ with Sands
AS he passes the baton on to Mike Sands, immediate past president of the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC), Victor Lopez said the organisation is in good hands.
Carnival caught polluting again
The government was yesterday challenged to bare its environmental teeth and hit Carnival Cruise Lines with the maximum $30m fine after more pollution incidents in Bahamian waters were exposed.
Plastic ban - there's no going back
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he would rather risk an election than the future of the country, telling the media the government fully informed the public on the plastic ban and does not intend to reverse the decision.
Fourth murder of the year
THE country recorded its fourth murder of the year yesterday evening when a man was killed on Montgomery Avenue off Carmichael Road. Officers received reports of the shooting shortly after 7pm.
$1.5 billion Thank Yous
DONORS pledged $1.5bn in funding and in-kind services for Hurricane Dorian recovery during a conference at Baha Mar yesterday. The event attracted more than 300 local and international delegates.
Monday, January 13
EDITORIAL: We wish Dr Minnis well in his appeal to the world
The devastation left by Hurricane Dorian stunned the nation. Lives lost, homes and businesses wiped out, thousands forced to abandon the places where they have lived all their lives.
LETTERS: Give us a referendum on marijuana question
We all remember those old days when the then Christie led Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) and its political and economic allies were caught in the cross fire of what was termed illegal gambling through the facilitation of unlicensed and unregulated web shops. The government wanted, as it should have, a slice of the multi-million dollar industry. The operators wanted the legality of the law and compliance and regulatory cover.
LETTERS: When will the bullying stop?
The recent comments by the Minster of National Security in relation to the Commissioner of Police and other senior career officers at the annual service for the RBPF’S, to say the least was inappropriate and disrespectful.
SIR RONALD SANDERS: China, the Caribbean and the West: Serving whose interest?
CARIBBEAN countries are being warned by the government of the United States and American writers that they should limit their dealings with China. In the course of these warnings, several allegations are made, suggesting sinister Chinese motives and even corrupt relations between Chinese institutions and local politicians who get personal “side benefits”.
Well-intentioned but poorly executed and once again the public takes the hit
ONE would have had to be living under a rock not to sense the aggravation over the ban on single-use plastics. While no one can doubt the good intentions, the early results show a disjointed rollout of the initiative.
Davis: Over-the-Hill initiative has failed
THE Progressive Liberal Party has said the Minnis administration’s Over-the-Hill initiative has failed, falling flat on benefits for businesses and residents.
Cooper: We support plastics ban but it needed more time
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party deputy leader Chester Cooper said while he supports the ban on single-use plastics, he believes the government should have implemented a longer transition period.
Road traffic dept probes fake licence discs
ROAD Traffic Department officials have confirmed investigations are underway to determine the source of several fake licence discs that have been issued to drivers in recent weeks. In an interview with The Tribune, Acting Road Traffic Controller Bradley Sands called the matter an “ongoing” problem, one he insisted the department hopes to rectify soon.
Moree: Judiciary needs greater independence
CHIEF Justice Brian Moree believes that a “deepening” of the independence of the judiciary is needed so that the sector can make its own decisions to carry out its mandate.
Mobile medical centre donated to Grand Bahama
A CONTAINER hospital donated by International Medical Corp was handed over to the Ministry of Health on Saturday to serve as a mobile clinic in East Grand Bahama.
PMH resumes elective operations
ELECTIVE surgeries at Princess Margaret Hospital have resumed after the procedures were suspended for a week due to the hospital’s malfunctioning sterilisation equipment.
85-year-old clings to floating refrigerator to survive Dorian
VIRGINIA Mosvold held on to a refrigerator for two days, bobbing up and down in water that nearly covered her face after Hurricane Dorian flooded her family’s home in Grand Bahama in early September.
Travis Munnings has big debut
TRAVIS Munnings had a successful debut to his pro basketball career and provided La Rochelle Stade Rochelais the offensive output they needed to contend in France’s NM-1 League.
Temple Christian Suns win division titles in Majority Rule Day tourney
THE Temple Christian Academy Suns had another sparkling performance, this time winning the three divisions they played in the Freedom Baptist Academy’s Majority Rule Day Tournament at DW Davis Gymnasium over the weekend.
Freedom Farm Baseball League opens new season
THE Freedom Farm Baseball League officially commenced its 2020 regular season with its traditional events, highlighted by appearances from some of the country’s biggest names in the sport and a former USA softball Olympian in a community outreach effort.
Ken Mullings shatters his national record
University of the Bahamas’ Ken Mullings not only shattered his national record in the heptathlon at the Purdue Gene Edmonds Memorial Invitational over the weekend, but he had a personal best in every event en route to picking up a No.2 world ranking in the event.
Land rights fears on Dorian rebuild
Specialists have warned that post-Dorian restoration could be undermined by the inability of land holders to prove their ownership and/or properly re-establish the true boundaries of their property.
‘Can’t imagine us going near’ $350 minimum wage
Private sector executives are hoping the National Tripartite Council “never goes near” the trade unions’ desired 67 percent minimum wage increase when it examines the issue in early February.
Minister ‘shocked’ at NAD outlook cut
A Cabinet minister is “a little shocked” that a top rating agency slashed its Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) outlook to “negative” despite the premier gateway enjoying a “record” 2019.
Commission defends itself on failed broker
The Securities Commission has defended its handling of a collapsed investment adviser by saying it took “appropriate regulatory steps” while arguing that client assets are safe.
Landowners could face proof issues
Specialists have warned that post-Dorian restoration could be undermined by the inability of land holders to prove their ownership and/or properly re-establish the true boundaries of their property.
Can you help us?
Minnis plea to world after hurricane
NEARLY 300 local and international delegates, including representatives of governments, multilateral agencies and financial institutions will convene at Baha Mar Convention Centre today for the widely anticipated Hurricane Dorian Pledging Conference.
Airline had ok to carry on flying
AS Bahamasair continues to investigate who is at fault for three of its jets being blocked from flying to the US, officials have recently discovered that the airline was granted a waiver until 2024 to continue operations, but were unaware of its stipulations.
Progress for Abaco power restoration
FOUR months after Hurricane Dorian destroyed Abaco, Bahamas Power and Light said it has made major inroads in restoring electricity to the island.
Saturday, January 11
Police investigating after body found in Exuma
Police are investigating after the body of a man was discovered in Exuma on Friday.
Friday, January 10
Apparent drowning in Long Island investigated
Police are investigating an apparent drowning on Long Island on Thursday.
Thursday, January 9
DNA leader: Crime is out of control
Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader Arinthia Komolafe said on Thursday “that the crime rate has gotten so much out of control” as she laid out her party’s multifaceted approach to fighting the issue.
Chief Justice: 'Deepening' of independence of the judiciary is needed
CHIEF Justice Brian Moree believes that a “deepening” of the independence of the judiciary is needed so that the judiciary can make its own decisions to carry out its mandate.
Mother of year's first murder victim recalls day he was killed
THE grief-struck mother of the first murder victim of the year said the family has not come to terms yet with the death of their relative.
PLP Deputy backs plastics ban, but says transition period should have been longer
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper said while he supports the single-use plastics ban, he believes the government should have implemented a longer transition period to ensure the public was properly educated on the importance of the prohibition.
Former MP: Bahamas needs to heal racial divide
FORMER MP Philip Galanis, while reflecting on Majority Rule, says The Bahamas needs to heal its racial divide.
Senator wants answers over 'malfunctioning sterilisation equipment' at PMH
SENATOR Dr Michael Darville has called for the government to address the reasoning behind "malfunctioning sterilisation equipment” at Princess Margaret Hospital, which have reportedly led to the suspension of several elective surgeries at the hospital.
PLP: Over-the-Hill initiative has failed
THE Progressive Liberal Party has said the Minnis administration’s Over-the-Hill initiative has failed, falling flat on benefits for businesses and residents.
Investigations underway over fake car licence discs
ROAD Traffic Department officials confirmed Thursday that investigations are underway to determine the source of several fake licence discs that have been issued to drivers in recent weeks.
Seven foreign nationals apprehended in Grand Bahama
FOLLOWING a recent attempted human smuggling incident in Grand Bahama, law enforcement officers report experiencing “a sharp increase in the number of interdicted incidents” in the northern Bahamas.
Independent judiciary 'is paramount'
AT the annual church service marking the opening of the 2020 legal year for the northern region of Grand Bahama, Canon Norman Lightbourne stressed that an independent judiciary is “paramount” – one that is free from political interference.
PLP leader: Majority Rule has opened doors to many Bahamians
OPPOSITION Leader Phillip “Brave” Davis said Bahamians must acknowledge where the country has come from in order to appreciate the progress it has made in providing all citizens with equal opportunities to succeed.
STATESIDE: The dangerous dance of President and the Pulpit
Before he was elected President in 2016, there was no real evidence that Donald Trump concerned himself with social conservative issues like abortion. He was a registered Democrat for many years and, like wealthy people in democracies in many countries including The Bahamas, he contributed generously to all major political parties.
Bahamas 22nd in New York Times '52 places to go in 2020'
THE New York Times has listed The Bahamas as one of its top "52 places to go in 2020”.
We need state of the art courts, says Moree
CHIEF Justice Brian Moree yesterday called for the construction of a new “state of the art” court complex, as he said the current facilities are all in “various states of disrepair” and “are not suitable for a modern court system”. The country’s top
Foreign workers dominate at The Pointe
THE Department of Labour is not happy with the disproportionate number of foreign workers to Bahamians at The Pointe’s construction site, Director of Labour John Pinder said. There are 264 foreign labourers to 90 Bahamian workers at site, Mr Pinder t
Building work will block PMH access
CONSTRUCTION at Princess Margaret Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department will temporarily block access to the area’s main entrance off Elizabeth Avenue for a few months starting Monday, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday. Patients w
Beware social media offering assistance
ACTING Director of Social Services Lillian Quant-Forbes said recent documents circulating online from the “Ministry of Social Development and Family Services” listing various types of government grants have not been issued by the Department of Social
Mitchell calls for more to be done over Iran tensions
FORMER Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell has suggested the government should be doing more to warn Bahamians of the potential travel risks associated with the United States’ and Iran’s ongoing tension.Mr Mitchell, Progressive Liberal Party chair
Storm victims are finding it hard to get help
ABACO residents who were forced to relocate to New Providence after Hurricane Dorian destroyed their homes said they are frustrated with the difficult process storm victims have to go through to receive assistance from the government.One victim, who
More than 100 complaints against attorneys
THE Bahamas Bar Association’s Ethics Committee received over 100 complaints against attorneys in 2019, its president Kahlil Parker said yesterday. Mr Parker, speaking during the opening of the 2020 legal year, said the Bar Association’s ethics commi
Darville: Govt has put Equinor oil spill on the back burner
SAVE the Bays chairman Joseph Darville accused the government of putting the Equinor oil spill on the “back burner,” claiming he has witnessed a “very minor amount” of clean up done in the forest near the South Riding Point site. He claimed “tons and
Baha Mar sales process exposed
Baha Mar’s current owner leapfrogged all rival bidders in less than two weeks to become the property’s chosen buyer despite its $1.3bn offer coming from outside the formal sales process.
Financial industry hails ‘certainty’ on tax residency
Financial services executives yesterday hailed the government’s plans to codify its tax residency initiative via legislation as providing “certainty and transparency” for both investors and global regulators.
Bahamas ‘catching up’ in Dorian’s wake
The Bahamas’ major tourism promotion board saw website conversions jump ten percent during 2020’s first week as it anticipates “record numbers” from post-Dorian marketing efforts.
Sarkis in $40m Rosewood ‘buy out’ proposal
Sarkis Izmirlian made a $40m offer to buy-out the Rosewood hotel property from the rest of Baha Mar after the property was placed into receivership in late 2015.
GUILTY AS CHARGED: Conviction rate hits 80% as trial backlog clogs courts system
THE conviction rate for serious offences has increased to almost 80 percent, Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday.
No quick solution to hospital beds crisis
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday that the issue of bed shortages at Princess Margaret Hospital will not be resolved until emergency care services at the Elizabeth Estates and South Beach clinics have expanded and renovations at PMH’s emergency department have been completed.
‘Don’t blame parents for police failures’
RIGHTS Bahamas said the commentary of Police Commissioner Anthony Ferguson on police brutality is “an excuse for and an indication of lazy RBPF training policy” and called on him to take responsibility for the conduct of officers.
School security upgrade ‘overdue’
A DAY after two students were stabbed at C V Bethel High School, Bahamas Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson said she has been making a clarion call for more than a decade to strengthen school security.
CC Sweeting Senior Boys basketball is recognised for effort in the classroom
THE CC Sweeting senior boys basketball programme was recognised for their effort in the classroom at a special assembly and pep rally hosted at the school’s campus yesterday. During the first term, each of the team members qualified with GPAs of 2.5
Nesbitt's season with Rebels comes to premature end
Valarie Nesbitt’s season came to a premature end following a surprising announcement by the Ole Miss Rebels’ media relations.The Rebels dismissed the junior point guard just 15 games into her tenure with the programme.“Right now, we’re trying to buil
Zane and PAOK win four of last six in European Champions League
ZANE Knowles and his PAOK Basketball Club are in the midst of the European Champions League and have won four of their last six.Knowles is averaging 7.1 points, 6.4 rebounds in 18.6 minutes per game and they currently sit in 4th place of group D. “We
Pay rules for holiday
THE Cabinet has announced that tomorrow, a Public Holiday, is being observed as Majority Rule Day. As a result, stores wishing to do so may open for business during normal business hours. However, employers are to note that employees who are normally
Carey calls for more time to understand plastic ban
BAHAMAS National Trust Executive Director Eric Carey wants Bahamians to see the bigger picture regarding the single use plastic ban, noting it is meant to protect the environment and Bahamian way of life. Mr Carey told The Tribune he understands the
Minnis out of the country
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis left Nassau on a “personal trip” yesterday. According to a statement from the Cabinet Office, Dr Minnis will return on Saturday. In Dr Minnis’ absence, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest wil
Man in hospital after being shot
A MAN is in hospital after he was shot on Tuesday night, police said. Shortly after 11pm, a man had just arrived at a home on Prison Lane, Fort Fincastle, when he was approached by a gunman, who shot him before running away, police said. The injure
Tommy never had what it takes to be PM
I make no bones about it. Over the years I have been an adviser to all of the leaders and wannabe leaders of our wonderful nation.
Facts, not theories
Global warming is clearly a fact not a theory so why would notable politicians such as Trump ignore/deny it?
UN set for Hurricane Dorian pledge day
THE United Nations Development Programme in partnership with the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation is hosting a Hurricane Dorian pledging conference on Monday for storm relief. The pledging conference will mobilise commitments
Jazz Chisholm among top prospects
JAZZ Chisholm was among the top prospects in each Major League Baseball organisation represented at the Rookie Career Development Programme in Miami, Florida. MLB and the MLB Players Association has hosted the event since 1992. According to MLP Pip
Meditation: New Year Blessings
“For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.” (Psalm 48:14 NIV)
Bahama Brass Band fosters the next generation
The world-famous Bahama Brass Band, now celebrating its 95th year, will be hosting their national event for 2020 in the form of a Brass Band Symposium.
St Ambrose celebrates 20 years in 2020
Under the theme of “Celebrating the Past – Empowered for the Future”, members of the St Ambrose Anglican Church will observe 20 years of ministry this evening in a service of thanksgiving.
Faith-based groups continue to support Bahamas recovery efforts
The Bahamas has seen an outpouring of help in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, the majority from international Christian charities who are continuing their recovery efforts for the long term and plan to be in Grand Bahama and Abaco over the next several years to help rebuild.
Bahamas still ‘in the blind’ over France’s blacklisting
The Bahamas is in “the blind” over France’s decision to “blacklist” its financial services industry, the deputy prime minister said yesterday, with Paris yet to justify why it took such punitive action.
BAIC urges artisans to exploit plastic bag ban
The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) says straw artisans can exploit the ban on single-use plastic bags to increase their own sales by creating alternatives.
Wednesday, January 8
Turnquest: We are working feverishly to restore GB power
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest said yesterday the government is “working feverishly” to have power quickly restored to the eastern part of Grand Bahama, which was devastated by Hurricane Dorian early last September.The community has not had el
$5m Abaco school repair bill may prove too much
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd said yesterday the government is still determining whether it wants to rebuild Patrick J Bethel High School in Abaco as costs to repair the storm-ravaged school are nearly $5m.
10 murders on Grand Bahama as crime falls by 10%
CRIME is down 10 percent in Grand Bahama, Police Commissioner Anthony Ferguson reported yesterday. Of the 95 murders police recorded in 2019, Commissioner Ferguson said 10 occurred in Grand Bahama; two each in Abaco and Bimini, and one in Eleuthera.
Dames' comments were 'inappropriate', says PLP's Davis
OPPOSITION leader Philip “Brave” Davis called the national security minister’s comments on Commissioner of Police Anthony Ferguson’s future “inappropriate”. During the RBPF’s annual church service on Sunday, Security Minister Marvin Dames said Commi
Bannister targets Ragged Island repair work
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister yesterday revealed that the Ministry of Works will spearhead a number of repair projects in Ragged Island and New Providence this year. Speaking to reporters outside of Cabinet, Mr Bannister said the ministry has pla
Deadly traffic accidents down 14%
FATAL traffic crashes in the country declined by 14 percent in 2019, with 54 incidents reported, according to newly released Royal Bahamas Police Force statistics. In 2018, police said there were 63 crashes that resulted in deaths. The number of vic
Immigration chief dies in Abaco crash
A TRAFFIC accident in Abaco has claimed the life of Chief Immigration Officer Bradley McDonald. Police reported that on Monday shortly after 3pm, Officer McDonald and another man were travelling in a Jeep Wrangler, west on Earnest Dean Highway, near
Doctors host free eye tests for storm victims
THE Ash Eye Institute held a free eye screening yesterday for people affected by Hurricane Dorian at the Holy Trinity Church in Stapledon Gardens.The initiative was a collaboration between the institute, the Christian Ophthalmology Society and Vision
ALICIA WALLACE: Back in the heartbeat of Junkanoo I missed so much
It is not a holiday season without Junkanoo. To miss the Valley, Roots, One Family and Saxons on Bay Street is to be asleep for the entire season.
Abaco's 'total eclipse' on 10,000 home jobs
An ex-Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president yesterday predicted a rebuilt Abaco will "totally eclipse" its pre-Dorian look with up to 10,000 jobs created by the Government's 400 homes plan alone.
Fresh doubts on Shell role in new power plant deal
A Cabinet minister yesterday raised fresh doubts over whether Shell North America will be involved in financing, constructing and owning New Providence’s proposed multi-fuel power plant. Desmond Bannister, minister of works, told reporters outside t
'Chicken and egg': GB Power eyes 50% cost drop for east
Electricity supply restoration to east Grand Bahama was yesterday branded “a chicken and egg situation” as the island’s utility eyes potential solutions that will slash its costs by 50 percent.K Peter Turnquest, pictured, deputy prime minster and the
RoyalFidelity's 'major step' over Caribbean expansion
A Bahamian investment bank yesterday said it had taken “a major step towards” realising its Caribbean expansion ambitions by finally closing the purchase of a $150m Cayman-based pension portfolio. Michael Anderson, pictured , RoyalFidelity Merchant
Central Bank's 'game changer' over settlement
Payment services providers yesterday hailed the move allowing them to establish settlement accounts with the Central Bank as “a game changer” for the sector and the digital Bahamian dollar roll-out. Harvey Morris, Omni Financial Services’ chief exec
Crown seeks killer’s execution
THE Crown is seeking the death penalty for a 24-year-old Rastafarian man who killed a teenager in his Woods Alley neighbourhood as part of gang warfare three years ago.
Don’t blame us for bad officers
POLICE Commissioner Anthony Ferguson connected police brutality to poor parenting and dishonesty from civilians interviewed by investigators conducting background checks into prospective officers.
Overall crime shows 7% decline
CRIME declined by seven percent in 2019 despite a four percent uptick in murders and a 12 percent increase in armed robberies, according to police statistics. Police Commissioner Anthony Ferguson, as he released the statistics, cited Hurricane Dorian for the murder increase from 91 in 2018 to 95 in 2019, saying law enforcement will learn from having its resources stretched to respond to a natural disaster.
Buddy and Kings rally from 21 points down, beat Ayton and Suns 114-103
PHOENIX (AP) — De’Aaron Fox scored 27 points, Nemanja Bjelica 19, Buddy Hield added 16 and the Sacramento Kings rallied from a 21-point deficit in the third quarter to beat the Phoenix Suns 114-103 last night.
Two gunmen rob house
GUNMEN forced two people inside a home in western New Providence yesterday morning before robbing them of cash, guns and a car, police said. Shortly after 10am Tuesday, a man and a female relative were standing outside a home located at Perpall Trac
Davis accuses Bethel over recall system backpedalling
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis said Attorney General Carl Bethel’s backpedalling on the Free National Movement’s promise to implement a recall system for non-performing members of Parliament is another example of the Minnis adm
Some baloney talk from Mr Pintard
A good New Year resolution for Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis would be to enforce the discipline so necessary for the proper functioning of cabinet government in our parliamentary system.
Does Junkanoo attract tourists?
Seemingly the new Port folks thought that by having a junkanoo scrap gang to welcome the cruise ship passengers, New Year’s would be a great promotional concept…video on-line is very interesting forget the Junkanoo watch the majority of the cruise passengers walk right past the group performing totally oblivious to them – totally disinterested.
When Germany is weak, so is Europe
The world is safer with a European Union but there is a small possibility it could unwind.
NPBA: Undefeated Giants rout Specialists 101-71
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants are still undefeated after routing the Uptown Cuts Specialists in one of the two games played in the New Providence Basketball Association on Monday night.In the earlier game played at the AF Adderley Gymnasium, the Aspha
Sands outlines plans for NACAC, new office
With his new role as the president of the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) region comes a new location for the office.Having taken over the responsibility for some 36 countries in the region, including the United States, Canada
The Tank: 'My preparation has been going very good'
HE’S gearing up to complete his training in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Saturday. Then it’s off to Hamburg, Germany where Sherman ‘The Tank’ Williams will step into the ring for his first fight for 2020 on Saturday, January 18.The 47-year-old veteran jou
'I have a seat at the table to represent the views of the area'
HE’S now serving as the new president of the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC). But by the time his tenure is over in four years, Mike Sands said he hopes to leave the area’s biggest track and field organisation in a much better
Bad Boy Mowers to continue as Battle 4 Atlantis title sponsor
FOLLOWING the University of Michigan’s recent victory over Gonzaga University, Atlantis, Paradise Island resort has announced that Bad Boy Mowers will continue as title sponsor, through 2022, for the highly-anticipated early season collegiate basketb
Baha Mar attracted 2m visitors in 2019
Baha Mar yesterday said it rounded off a year in which it attracted more than two million visitors with 100 percent occupancy during the Christmas season. The Cable Beach mega resort, in a statement to Tribune Business, said: “2019 proved to be a mo
Bahamas still 'in the blind' over France's blacklisting
The Bahamas is in “the blind” over France’s decision to “blacklist” its financial services industry, the deputy prime minister said yesterday, with Paris yet to justify why it took such punitive action. K Peter Turnquest said: “I saw a listing today
Business Outlook gives summit speaker line-up
The upcoming Bahamas Business Outlook conference will focus on how multiple post-Hurricane Dorian challenges can be converted into quality rebuilding, modernisation and growth opportunities. ssembling some heavy hitters to explore the theme of this
GB to 'surprise some' with economic activity
The deputy prime minster yesterday voiced optimism that Grand Bahama will enjoy “quite significant” economic activity during 2020 despite its ongoing recovery from Hurricane Dorian’s challenges. K Peter Turnquest, who is also the east Grand Bahama MP
BAIC urges artisans to exploit plastic bag ban
The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) says straw artisans can exploit the ban on single-use plastic bags to increase their own sales by creating alternatives.Debbie Strachan, BAIC’s acting general manager, said it will when promo
Tuesday, January 7
Two students in hospital after C V Bethel stabbing incident
TWO students were injured and are in hospital after a stabbing incident at C V Bethel Senior High School Tuesday.
EDITORIAL: People deserve a resolution
IT is now more than four months since Hurricane Dorian hit The Bahamas – and still we do not have an accurate count of how many people were killed in the storm.
PETER YOUNG: Has Trump lit torch to a new global conflict?
It is surely no exaggeration to say the sudden horror of last week’s killing by a US drone strike of Major General Qasem Soleimani, Iran’s top military commander and one of its most influential political figures, has shaken the world.
72-year-old in court on charges of assaulting girl, aged 3
A 72-year-old man has been charged with assaulting a girl seven times his junior. Thomas Deal, who celebrates his 73rd birthday in May, is accused of indecently assaulting a three-year-old child. Deal pleaded not guilty to the charge when arraigned
FACE TO FACE: Slam dunk! How Marvin is using basketball to help youngsters find their place in the world
I decided to start off the year with someone who inspired me when we first met face to face. We were in the office of optometrist Dr Charlene Wallace.
Hanna Martin: Dames too slow to react to videos
ENGLERSTON MP Glenys Hanna Martin criticised the amount of time it took for National Security Minister Marvin Dames to respond to the viral police beating videos. In a statement yesterday, Mrs Hanna Martin called the “lapse in response” unacceptable
'More could be done to help'
A STORM victim in Abaco says more can be done to help expedite the rebuilding and restoration process on the island.Edward Hoyte Jr, who lost the second story of his house during Hurricane Dorian, told The Tribune a number of factors have hindered th
My brother was in the process of turning his life around, says sister
KEASHAWN Fortune was in the process of changing his life before he was shot while standing on Prison Lane on Sunday night, a relative said yesterday. “My brother was changing his life for the better...He got a new job, he stayed more to himself, wor
Stop the violence, bishop urges young men
BISHOP Simeon Hall made a clarion call to young men to stop the violence after three murders occurred within the first few days of the new year. His comments came after National Security Minister Marvin Dames said the government is “still not happy”
Hundreds take advantage of Home Run Derby clinic
IN addition to the Home Run Derby in Paradise, the participating players hosted its annual kids’ clinic at the Atlantis resort in Paradise Harbour for aspiring student-athletes.
Bahamas needs $670m for 'first world' health facilities
The Bahamas needs a $670m capital investment to “bring our healthcare facilities into the 21st century and up to par with the first world”, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday. Dr Duane Sands, pictured , minister of health, confirmed to Tribune Bu
Govt eyes $40m waste-to-energy Abaco solution
The government is eyeing a $40m waste-to-energy package as part of a $140m solution to the post-Dorian clean-up challenges in Abaco. Documents released ahead of next Monday’s “pledging” conference, in which the government has teamed with the United
'No turning back' on plastic bag charge
The government yesterday asserted there is no turning back on the 25 cents fee for single-use plastic bags as retailers complained they are taking the brunt of consumer complaints. Dr Rhianna Neely-Murphy, the Department of Environmental Health’s se
Oil explorer aims to open fund to small Bahamians
A Bahamas-based oil explorer and its advisers yesterday said they plan to seek the Securities Commission’s permission to open their newly-launched mutual fund to small local retail investors.The Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC) disclosed that its £2m
DPM pledges to 'speed up' small business Dorian relief
The government is aiming to “speed up” financial help for Dorian-hit businesses, the deputy prime minister said yesterday, although its $10m facility is likely to meet less than 25 percent of their needs.K Peter Turnquest told Tribune Business the pr
US-Iran conflict being monitored
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Darren Henfield said Bahamian officials are monitoring the conflict between the United States and Iran but they do not think that Bahamians travelling around the world need to be on special alert.
Sands calls for govt to agree bigger total for victims of Dorian
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said a multi-ministerial decision will have to be made to confirm that over 200 people have died due to Hurricane Dorian.
‘Pay $1,500 for beating girlfriend’
A MAN was yesterday ordered to pay his ex-girlfriend over $1,000 for beating her up last year.
‘Give Rastafarians open access to cannabis’
A LAWYER challenging cannabis related convictions of Rastafarians says their cultivation and use of the substance should be unrestricted when the government changes the law on cannabis possession.
It's wrong to charge us for plastic bags
THE plastic ban implemented by this government needs to be changed. It seems that thought was not given to what would work best for the people of this land, especially those who are not rich. I voted for this government, but with each passing year I regret my decision. I notice that they are not in touch with the needs of the small man. So many people are doing their best just to make ends meet but this government does not seem to care about or notice that.
Beware the brain drain
Re:‘Stop beating up on private sector’. The Tribune, Business, December 31, 2019.
U SPORTS: Mixed results for Bahamian players in Canada
U SPORTS men’s basketball continued following the winter break, and Bahamian players continued to compete at the top level in Canada with mixed results. Shamarr Burrows, Jordan Wilson and the Dalhousie Tigers continue their undefeated run in the AUS
'We have a very short programme, but a very intensive programme'
WITH more focus on a lengthy international campaign, the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations will run a shortened local season in 2020. But president Drumeco Archer anticipates that it will still be action-packed. “We have a very short prog
Jazz Chisholm hosts baseball camp
MIAMI Marlins prospect Jazz Chisholm hosted youth baseball players to a clinic in conjunction with International Elite-Sports Academy at the Pinewood Gardens baseball field.After several hours of training in the fundamentals at various skill position
Bowling Federation to stage national team coaching clinic
Following the successful completion of its National Squad Trials in December at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment, the Bahamas Bowling Federation is looking forward to a change in its qualifying selection process this year.Tyrone Knowles, who
T-Bird Flyers Track Classic on Friday and Saturday
THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ 2020 season will swing into full gear with the first full-fledged track and field meet on Saturday as the T-Bird Flyers Track Classic is staged on Friday and Saturday at the Thomas A Robinson Track an
Bahamian connection turning heads with BC Prep Panthers
THE Bahamian connection with the British Columbia Prep Panthers continues to deliver a series of impressive performances as the programme establishes itself as a pipeline for local talent. The Panthers - with Joshua Dames, Bradley Lightbourne, D’Ant
New advances in prostate treatments
The good news: prostate cancer, if detected early, can be successfully treated, with a 98 percent prostate cancer specific survival ten years after treatment.
New year, new you
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.
Essay competition to focus on the impact of Dorian
TEMPLETON World Charity Foundation (TWCF) launched this year’s Bahamas Laws of Life Essay Competition with a focus on the impact of Hurricane Dorian, along with a new logo and website. At www.bahamaslawsoflife.org, students, teachers and parents can
100 small GB firms to get grants to restart business
ABOUT 100 small and medium-sized businesses on Grand Bahama will receive grants to help restart their businesses through the RISE Grant Initiative – a joint programme established by the Grand Bahama Port Authority and Mercy Corps.A workshop was launc
29-year-old remanded over Chinese restaurant robbery charges
A 29-year-old man was remanded to prison yesterday over allegations he robbed a local Chinese restaurant at gunpoint of almost $1,000 last week. Davidson Charles, of Thompson Lane, stood before Magistrate Samuel McKinney on armed robbery and receivi
Local businesswomen head into 2020 with determination
AS cliché as it may sound, the start of a new year is also the start of a new journey for many people.
‘First Lady of Modern Gospel’ Yolanda Adams speaks to Bahamian women
GRAMMY Award-winning gospel artist Yolanda Adams was a special guest speaker at the second annual AICPA-CIMA Global Leadership Women’s Summit here in Nassau, which has been hailed a success by its organisers.
Tribune Fashion Report at the 77th Golden globes
SPLIT Olivia Colman (“The Crown”)
Local pastor has prayers answered thanks to bionic manhood
PHILLIP*, a member of the local clergy, spent thousand of dollars and years trying to achieve an erection, all to no avail. Impotence drugs, a penile pump and injections did nothing to help his deflated manhood to rise again.
Ancient methods of hair removal
Are you still shaving or using depilatory creams to remove unwanted facial and body hair? If so, you need to read on; you will learn of two unique methods of hair removal.
Dealing with hip pain
Your hip is a weight-bearing joint, and all of your weight above the waistline has to be supported by your hips.
Retailers in mixed Christmas verdicts
Bahamian retailers yesterday revealed a mixed Christmas performance, with some reporting up to 20 percent year-over-year sales increases but others bemoaning declines. Brent Burrows, general manager of CBS Bahamas (Commonwealth Building Supplies), t
Financial services faces 'more of same' in 2020
The Bahamian financial services industry can “expect more of the same” from global regulatory initiatives in 2020, a senior executive said yesterday, with financial technology (Fintech) driving its evolution. Tanya McCartney, the Bahamas Financial S
Ex-Bahamasair chair's surprise over US block
An ex-Bahamasair chairman has expressed surprise that required upgrades to three of the national flag carrier’s jets were not “readily dealt with” prior to them being barred from flying to the US. Valentine Grimes, who headed Bahamasair’s Board unde
Govt seeking $40m home repair donations
The government is aiming to raise $40m from private sector donors to finance “sustainable housing repairs or reconstruction” for Dorian victims who lacked the necessary insurance coverage. Documents released ahead of next Monday’s “pledging” confere
Monday, January 6
EDITORIAL: An uneasy seat for the commissioner
POLICE Commissioner Anthony Ferguson could not be blamed if he felt a little uneasy this morning.
Doctors still waiting for overdue payment
JUNIOR doctors have not yet been given their promised $1,400 lump sum, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday.“This is all about the movement of cash back and forth and the issues of messaging between finance (officials) and PHA (Public Hospit
INSIGHT: Why all the rush? As a long-term user, trust me, there’s a dark side to marijuana
I smoked and inhaled my first marijuana joint in 1973 as a young adult. Prior to that I had a disdain for the same and all who were associated with it. No, I am not and have never been a prude nor an overt moralist. I simply do not and still do not believe in the ingestion of mind-altering, self-induced drugs or alcoholic beverages to the point of becoming incapacitated.
INSIGHT: Trump's raised the stakes through Iranian's assassination - what happens next?
The US men’s soccer team was supposed to begin a three-week winter training regimen yesterday at an impressive facility in Doha, Qatar, where the men’s World Cup is scheduled to be held in 2022. The trip was abruptly cancelled last Friday. This was one of the first announced consequences of the American decision to kill Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike on a convoy in Baghdad. It certainly won’t be the last.
INSIGHT: The clock’s already ticking - we can’t afford to be unprepared a second time
ONE of the best things about a new year is that it serves as a reset to the year before. We entered 2019 optimistic for an economic turnaround marked by a record year in tourism, and hopeful that our streets would be safer after experiencing the lowest murder rate in years.
Dames: Officers who violate their oath will be relentlessly pursued
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday cautioned police officers to never mistreat or abuse civilians, as officers who “violate their oath of office” will “continue to be relentlessly pursued” by the powers that be. Mr Dames, speaking dur
ShotSpotter credited with detecting 1,000 gunshots
THE ShotSpotter gunshot detection system has detected over 1,000 gunshots to date, thus improving police response time, National Security Minister Marvin Dames said yesterday. Mr Dames said over 1,200 gunshots have been detected as a result of the g
Gift giving puts smiles on children's faces
There’s nothing better than seeing a smile on children’s faces and these youngsters in the former St Cecilia’s constituency have plenty of reasons to be happy. Thanks to Tribune Media Group, Island Capital Group and Bahamas Aviation, Climate and Sev
‘No new travel warning’
THE United States Embassy in Nassau has issued a statement refuting social media reports of a new travel warning for the Bahamas, stressing there has been no change since previous advisories.
$40m repair bill for broken down roads
The government must invest $40m in roadworks throughout The Bahamas “just to get through this year”, a Cabinet minister has revealed, as it aims to plug “a huge hole” in deteriorating infrastructure.
DPM: Deals 'took advantage of the Bahamian people'
The deputy prime minister has blasted previous administrations for “taking advantage of the Bahamian people” by entering into contracts “nobody in a commercial sense” would agree to. K Peter Turnquest, pictured , told Tribune Business that “there’s
'Find fortitude' to shut Bahamasair
A member of the government’s Air Transport Advisory Board says “somebody need to finds the fortitude to shut down” Bahamasair after three of its jets were blocked from flying to the US. Carey Leonard told Tribune Business that the failure to install
Bahamasair probe: 'chips to fall where they may' over jets
Bahamasair’s chairman last night said he was investigating the airline’s failure to equip three of its jets in time to continue flying to the US, and said: “The chips will fall where they may.”Tommy Turnquest, pictured, the former Cabinet minister an
Airline’s ‘mistake’ led to US flights lockout
TOURISM and Aviation Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said Bahamasair “made a mistake” not acquiring the technology necessary for entry into the United States ahead of a January 1, 2020 deadline.
UPDATED: Police shocked by two murders on one night
Two men were murdered in separate incidents last night. In the first, a man was shot while driving his car and, in the second, a 22-year-old was gunned down by two men as he was out walking.
PM’s brother in assault summons
CYRIL “Boxer” Minnis, the brother of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, has been summonsed to appear in Magistrate’s Court with a woman with whom he had a recent argument.
Ferguson told - your days are numbered
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday said Commissioner of Police Anthony Ferguson should by now have identified a successor, as he said the police chief is “nearing the end of his reign” over the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Police hunt four robbers
POLICE are looking for four men who broke into a home on Kemp Road on Saturday morning and stole cash, hair weave and other items.
Suspected drowning probe
NEW Providence police are investigating the circumstances surrounding an alleged drowning.
WORLD VIEW: Contest for OAS Secretary-General
The contest for the post of Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS) is now well and truly joined.
We need to get a grip
It may take a while to understand what is going on in the politics of a nation, and for those who have an interest in discerning what is going on a good place to start would be to recognise what the opposing political forces do not talk about and what they agree on. The first obstacle in the way of this exercise is the not too obvious fact that these matters are never discussed in any open forum by anyone who is a politician or who has political aspirations.
No 'right' to an honour
THE quote written by your Khrisna Russell from ‘Sir’ Godfrey Kelly is precisely what is wrong as to how national honours are given…for this eminent Attorney and past Cabinet Minister to be quoted: “My honour deserved and it’s long overdue” totally violates the premise the form of how donors are given.
Lewis Brinson 'Home Run Derby King'
The third edition of the Don’t Blink/Charles Johnson Foundation Home Run Derby in Paradise produced a pair of new champions to conclude an exciting weekend of events.Lewis Brinson put on a spectacular hitting display and claimed the title of “Home Ru
NPBA: YES, Commonwealth Bank Giants are undefeated
YOUR Essential Store (YES) and Commonwealth Bank Giants are both still undefeated in the New Providence Basketball Association.Coming off the Christmas break, the Giants highlighted NPBA action Saturday night as YES pounded the Triple K Stampers 105-
Stefan qualifies for the CARIFTA Games
STEFAN Farquharson was the first Bahamian to attain the qualifying standard for the 2020 CARIFTA Games. Farquharson’s feat came at the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ Odd Distance Track Classic where he soared 1.92 metres or 6-feet, 3
Ayton and Suns rally for 120-112 win over Knicks
PHOENIX (AP) — Deandre Ayton snatched the loose ball, glanced down the court and saw Aron Baynes streaking toward the rim with no one around him. The 6-foot-11 centre never hesitated, launching a pass to his 6-10 teammate and hitting him in stride fo
Bahamas' location can mitigate US-Iran fall-out
The Bahamas’ proximity to the US and safe reputation may mitigate any tourism fall-out as a result of heightened Middle East tensions, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune Business that
Bahamas 'can't stick head in sand' on artificial intelligence
The Bahamas has been urged to “get on that crest” of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) for use in business and education, amid warnings that it cannot “stick its head in the sand”.The upcoming Bahamas Business Outlook 2020 conference, scheduled f
Abaco poultry supplier in 30% May production goal
An Abaco-based poultry supplier believes it can hit 30 percent of pre-Dorian production levels by this May with plans to exclusively target its most lucrative market. Lance Pinder, operations manager at Abaco Big Bird Poultry Farm, told Tribune Busi
Abaco 'not even close' to Dorian rebuild workforce
Abaco is “not even close” to the manpower levels required for post-Dorian reconstruction, the island’s Chamber of Commerce has confirmed, while asserting that all workers must be here “legally”. Ken Hutton, responding to assertions by former finance
Sunday, January 5
UPDATED: Governor General and Chief Justice to be Knights
QUEEN Elizabeth has given her approval for Governor General Cornelius Alvin Smith and Chief Justice Brian Moree, QC, to be knighted.
ROYAL BAHAMAS POLICE FORCE ANNUAL CHURCH SERVICE AND PARADE – Traffic Information
The Royal Bahamas Police Force Annual Police Church Service, which will be held at 2:00pm on Sunday, 5th January, 2020 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Robinson and Claridge Roads.
Grand Bahama trio deny shop breaking charges
THREE men were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court last week with several offences, including shopbreaking, stealing and causing damage. Leonardo Hall, 22, and Ken Barrington Webb, 21, both of Hunters, and Warren Tracey Taylor, 21, of Pinder’
Friday, January 3
Lucayan National Park could reopen in next 10 days
THE Lucayan National Park in East Grand Bahama could reopen in the next 10 days, according to a BNT official who reported that repair work has now started at the park which closed because of hurricane damage in early September.
Saxons co-chair says PM influence allegations 'ludicrous'
SAXONS Superstars Co-chair Kendenique Campbell-Moss was outraged by allegations that Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis influenced this year’s New Year’s Junkanoo Parade.
Police beating videos spark debate
A SERIES of videos showing members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force beating civilians at the 2020 New Year’s Junkanoo parade has sparked a heated public debate.
UPDATED: Family say body of missing fisherman found
FAMILY of fisherman Harold Fritzgerald have reported that his body has been found.
A COMIC'S VIEW: My New Year’s Resolutions
IT’S a new year, 2020, and everyone’s slate is clean. Save for the often unattainable, well-intended ‘New Year’s Resolutions’.
Welcome to the first new babies of 2020
NATHANIEL Gilbert was the first baby boy to be born in 2020. The seven pounds-one-ounce bundle of joy arrived at 9.45am on New Year’s Day. Candice Butcher, Nathaniel’s mother already nicknamed him ‘Vision’. She said that like any mother she wants t
Campaign finance another empty promise, says Davis
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ “vague” commitment to campaign finance law is the latest sign his party’s election victory was built on “empty promises and political expediency,” Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday.After Dr Minnis
Family: why are we still waiting for reports on Turin deaths?
FAMILIES of the two Bahamian men found dead in Italy have yet to receive the final toxicology reports seven months following their deaths. Father of Blair John, Randolph John, is concerned that months have passed since the death and they continue to
A night of all Knights
Platinum Knights pulled off its fourth consecutive victory as the unofficial winners of the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade in Grand Bahama. Under the theme, “A Celebration of Life – All Grand Bahama Needs is Love”, the group captured top standings i
Customer complaints as single use plastic ban comes into effect
CONSUMERS are already voicing their anger as the new single use plastic ban which has now come into effect.
Sir Franklyn: PM has 'no difference-making ideas'
The prime minister has “no viable ideas” for improving the lives of ordinary Bahamians, a prominent businessman has blasted, arguing that the Over-the-Hill revival has made little impact to-date. Sir Franklyn Wilson, the Arawak Homes and Sunshine Ho
Auto dealers target 15-20% sales surge
Bahamian auto dealers yesterday said they are targeting a 15-20 percent sales increase for 2020 amid expectations that the sector could enjoy its best year in more than a decade. Ben Albury, Bahamas Bus and Truck’s general manager, told Tribune Busi
Haitian deportations 'hit Dorian rebuilding'
A former finance minister yesterday warned that the speed of Abaco’s post-Dorian reconstruction could be undermined by the government deporting much of the necessary workforce back to Haiti.James Smith, also an ex-Central Bank governor, told Tribune
Fishermen hail 45% increase in crawfish prices
Bahamian fishermen yesterday hailed this season’s 45 percent increase in crawfish prices to $16 per pound as “the best we have ever had” since they started in the industry. Keith Carroll, the Bahamas Commercial Fishers Alliance’s (BCFA) vice-chairman
Real estate sales 'pulled down' 10% by offline Abaco
A prominent Bahamian realtor yesterday predicted that total real estate market sales volumes will be “pulled down” by ten percent in 2020 due to Abaco being taken offline by Hurricane Dorian.John Christie, HG Christie’s president and managing broker,
The Kingdom of God
There is much difference of opinion about the meaning of the Kingdom of God, due in part to the plethora of scripture on the subject. Isaiah 11:6 (KJV) describes God’s Kingdom as “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.”
US blocks three Bahamas aircraft
THREE of Bahamasair’s largest planes have been blocked from entering the United States because they lack surveillance technology demanded by the Federal Aviation Administration.
On hold - $70m ‘dubious’ deals: List of health projects put in place by PLP remain under review
THE Ministry of Health is still assessing what to do with some $70m worth of “dubious” contracts the Christie administration left in place, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday.
Victim died just 11 days after his baby born
MARCO Meadows will never get the chance to see his 11-day-old baby grow up.
Police ‘studying’ new beating video
COMMISSIONER of Police Anthony Ferguson has said the Royal Bahamas Police Force is investigating the actions of officers seen clubbing civilians with nightsticks during a recent Junkanoo parade.
Jury says Disney should pay worker $4m after Bahamas car accident
A Florida jury has decided that a Disney Cruise Line worker deserves $4m from the company based on her claim that she received inadequate medical care from ship doctors after she was hit by a car during a port of call.The Brevard County jury earlier
Knighthoods and nonsense
For the sake of Brave Davis and Fred Mitchell, and anyone else who has a problem with the skin colour that God put them in, I do hope that someone, somewhere in the world, will soon find a way to alter their chromosomes, so that they can become white, at least for a little while.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Riding for Dorian relief
Jeanne Dupuch and Anne Maury grew up in Nassau close friends with a special bond – their love of horses.
EDITORIAL: Take police brutality seriously
We’ve been here before.
Munnings signs with new team
AFTER his deal with his original club failed to come to fruition, Travis Munnings has another opportunity to begin his pro basketball career in France.
Meditation: Follow the right star
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’
A return to old values for 2020
The clock has run out on 2019. Thank God, because 2019 has been by far the worst year in Bahamian history, and I believe almost every Bahamian would attest to that sentiment. With all that has happened with Hurricane Dorian – the loss of so many lives, businesses, homes, and the tedious work to get back to some normalcy – I do believe that we all need to seek God first, and to repent as a nation.
The $17m drones
Not that the $17m wroth of 55 drones might assist the police the public needs some re-assurances as to how these drones will operate and an assurance that our privacy will not unless they, the police have a Magistrate’s Order, be abused.
It's just the facts
I am often offended by what passes for commentary and criticism by the official opposition and their supporters but believe that no response is likely better for my health. As we begin a New Year, I am hazarding a change.
Don't Blink: Star-filled home run derby set for tomorrow
THE third annual Don’t Blink/Charles Johnson Foundation Home Run Derby, powered by REV, takes place at noon tomorrow, Saturday January 5, 2020 at the Montagu foreshore, featuring 30 participants in this one-of-a-kind baseball exhibition. The star-fi
Down memory lane: A decade to remember
Lest we forget, it was only a short time ago that we couldn’t wait to usher in the millennium of 2000.Today, we reflect on what has been a turbulent decade of so many ups and downs, thrills and spills, successes and failures, triumphs and defeats and
Sprinter Marissa White on the move
MARISSA White has made the adjustment to competing at the collegiate level and now she’s hoping that she can move on and represent the Bahamas on the international stage as a member of the next female sprinting core. Now in her sophomore year at Tem
Exuma’s Ebenezer church family rings in 2020 in faith
Rev Stephen Smith and the Ebenezer family of Exuma celebrated in prayer, praise, reflection and thanksgiving during their annual Watch Night Service.
Your light still shines
“Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East and have come to worship Him!”
Wilson: 'It was a good year to grow'
COACH Ronald Cartwright feels that if Jamal Wilson can improve on his approach to the bar, he can become a legitimate global high jumper. Wilson, the 31-year-old national champion, has been one of the Bahamas’ premier jumpers and is coming off a dis
Ayton has double double, but West-leading Lakers top Suns
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Lakers built a huge early lead against Phoenix only to see it shrink to single digits.
Consumers 'disgruntled' on plastic bag transition
Super Value’s principal yesterday admitted “there are disgruntled customers” over the 25 cent per plastic bag charge, adding that the transition had “not been accepted as I had hoped”. Rupert Roberts, pictured, told Tribune Business: “I would say tha
Long Island vacation rentals hit by Dorian
Long Island has been hit by Hurricane Dorian fall-out, its Chamber of Commerce president revealed yesterday, with vacation rental bookings significantly down on prior years. Cheryl de Goicoechea told Tribune Business that her own Airbnb properties “
Farmers to receive $1.2m Dorian aid during January
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the government will this month release some $1.2m to deal with farmers’ “emergency needs” some four months after Hurricane Dorian’s passage. Michael Pintard, minister of agriculture and marine resources, told Tribun
Thursday, January 2
EDITORIAL: What can true ambition achieve?
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is nothing if not ambitious.
STATESIDE: We’ve read this script before - now for Bush read Trump
As Americans awoke on New Year’s Day, their thoughts may have initially been of a reflective nature, contemplating the end of one astonishing decade in their recent history and legitimately wondering what the next ten years might bring to top the tumult and turmoil to which they have unfortunately become accustomed.
96 killed in 2019 as murder count increases by five percent
THE country’s murder count in 2019 was pushed to 96, according to The Tribune’s records, a 5.5 percent increase over 2018’s 91 killings.
Miller's lease breach damages 'over $66m'
A former Cabinet minister may seek more than $66m in damages after the Supreme Court found that the government’s lease of his shopping plaza is “valid and binding”, it was revealed yesterday.Damian Gomez QC confirmed to Tribune Business that Justice
Deltec slams ‘inaccurate’ claims on broker’s failure
A major Bahamian financial institution has slammed “inaccurate and unsubstantiated” allegations that it played a “conflicted” role in the collapse of a local investment advisory firm.
'Pay attention to real estate trends'
A prominent Bahamian realtor is urging vendors not to over-price their properties given that data shows the average selling price can be up to 40-50 percent below the initial listing. Mario Carey, pictured , founder of Better Homes and Gardens Real
Failed broker paid 'excessive' cash to related parties
A Bahamian investment adviser collapsed into insolvency due to “mismanagement” centred on internal conflicts and the payment of “excessive cash” to related parties for client introductions. Ed Rahming, Pacifico Global’s liquidator, told the Supreme
'Business as usual' hurt poverty battle
A $9.6m initiative to fight Bahamian poverty was undermined by the public sector’s “strict bureaucratic policies” that treated the effort as “business as usual”. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report on efforts to reform The Bahamas’ soci
'My honour's deserved - and long overdue'
BUSINESSMAN and former Olympian Godfrey Kelly, 91, yesterday defended his knighthood saying he expected the award “earlier” and views it as government making “amends” for neglecting to recommend it after his decades of contributions to the country.
Minnis' targets for 'seven more years'
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to stop income inequality and to create more job opportunities for Bahamians in the country.
Father of four shot dead on first day of year
THE first day of 2020 was marked by the first murder of the year, with a father of four shot dead on Third Street.
Night of the Saxons
THE 2020 New Year’s Day parade ended with an overwhelming victorious win for the Saxons Superstars, who captured the unofficial winner title with an indigenous “Bahamian or Nuttin, Dis We Tings” theme.
Where does the buck stop?
Several weeks ago I was interviewed on the Steve McKinney show. It was a wide-ranging interview. Among other things, the performance of the present government, and in particular, the performance of the Hon Carl Bethel, QC, was discussed.
Love thy neighbour
Clearly 2019 will be remembered for that mega Gurricane Dorian and the devastation.
Ondaatje book a bargain
The 400-page hardcover book, Profiles in Literature, by Christopher Ondaatje, on sale at The Tribune for only $20 per copy, is the buy of the Century!
Off the grid – in many ways
Re: Dionisio - We Need To Raise Our Game.
Wells sets some lofty goals on the track at Oral Roberts
BEGINNING her junior year at Oral Roberts, Sasha Wells has already inked her name on a Summit League Female Track Athlete of the Week. She did it before she came home for the Christmas break for the week of December 2-8 as she opened her season with
Etienne fast becoming the next Bahamian high jumper to watch
JYLES Etienne is fast becoming the next Bahamian male high jumper to watch.He’s coming off the Big Ten Athlete of the Week after the Indiana University’s junior posted a personal best and meet record of 2.23 metres or 7-feet, 3 3/4-inches at the Hoos
Gardiner our senior male athlete of 2019
There is no doubt that quarter-miler Steven Gardiner’s sterling triumph in the men’s 400 metres at the International Amateur Athletic Federation’s World Championships in Doha, Qatar earned him The Tribune’s 2019 Male Athlete of the Year. His glaring
Rosters set for the 'Don't Blink' Home Run Derby
THE rosters are set for both teams as the country’s top pro baseball prospects prepare to host a showcase of local and international talent, vying for the title of the Bahamian Home Run Derby King. The third edition of the Don’t Blink/Charles Johnso
Providence Holiday Classic: Rattlers, Big Red Machine win title
THE CI Gibson Rattlers and St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine basketball programmes celebrated the winter break with tournament titles at the 2019 Providence Holiday Classic.In the finale the Rattlers regained their senior boys’ title while the B
Businesses warned on plastic products
Companies will be fined if they still have banned plastic products on their shelves or in inventory come July 1, government officials have warned.Dr Rhianna Neely-Murphy, senior environmental officer with the Department of Environmental Health, along
Mobile ride firm sees $69k capital injection
A children’s mobile ride rental company has received a $69,000 capital injection with help from the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC). More Play Entertainment, owned by Alisa Sands-Hutcheson, pictured , caters to school and public fairs, fest
