Wednesday, January 31
01312024 EDITION
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Students recognised for completing Cyber Bootcamp
More than 40 students were recognised and awarded certificates and prizes for completing the Bahamas-Huawei Cyber Bootcamp this month.
ALICIA WALLACE: What is safety and how do we build it?
THE news over the past few weeks has, given the number of murders record just in the first month of 2024, lingered on the issue of safety. Several politicians have expressed concern about the level of crime — with some even calling for capital punishment as if that is a solution — while the prime minister has promised more intrusive policing, the US Embassy has issued its travel advisory, and Chief Superintendent reportedly said The Bahamas is still a safe place.
EDITORIAL: Police must stay away from bias
THERE are serious matters to be considered after the FNM complained of collusion between PLP operatives and the police.
Pia Glover-Rolle says a ‘peacefull meeting’ will take place with Labour, the hotel union and Atlantis
TOP executives of the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union (BHCAWU) and Atlantis Resort were scheduled to meet yesterday to try to resolve wage increase issues for employees who fall under the tipping category.
Davis calls on businesses to join programme using CCTVS with facial recognition technology
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis wants businesses to call the Ministry of National Security and join a programme involving use of facial recognition CCTVs.
Budding teen entrepreneur opens new takeaway restaurant
CHRISTOPHER Edouard helped fund his way through school by working as a grocery store packing boy.
Taxable transactions plunged by $1.26bn at COVID's peak
Taxable goods and services transactions plummeted in value by $1.264bn during the COVID pandemic's peak due to lockdowns and other economic restrictions, it has been revealed.
Hotels dealing with visitor safety concerns on crime
Hotels have been fielding concerns over whether it is safe to vacation in The Bahamas as Canada was yesterday reported to have issued a crime alert on this nation.
Fisheries warning on Royal Caribbean's Xanadu deal
Bonefish conservationists last night voiced concerns about potential negative impacts for a key fisheries spawning ground if Royal Caribbean's proposed Xanadu Beach Hotel acquisition proceeds.
Tie 'pieces of puzzle' for better corruption ratings
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to "tie together" all the initiatives it has undertaken to combat graft after it maintained its 30th spot in Transparency International's corruption perceptions index.
Lawyers criticism of Bail Act amendment ‘misdirected’ and ‘misconceived’, says PM
AFTER defence lawyers critiqued the Davis administration’s planned amendments to the Bail Act, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said some of their criticism was “misdirected” and “misconceived”.
Awarding excellence and inspiring the best in Claridge Primary students
Andrew Wilson, businessman and owner of QBC started the Claridge Primary School’s mid-year awards ceremony with a pledge he has said many times with the students here, some since he began working to inspire the best in them six year’s ago.
Gibson’s lawyer cross examines Cargill-Sherman focusing on her claim of being terminated
TESTIMONY continued in the criminal trial of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson and his co-accused yesterday, with a defence attorney attacking a witness’ claim that she was “terminated” from a senior position within the Water & Sewerage Corporation.
GBPA praises PM for easing investor fears
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) yesterday praised the Prime Minister for soothing the fears of multiple licensees and investors "alarmed by recent unsettling commentary" from Fred Mitchell.
FNM accuse police of colluding with PLP
THE Free National Movement is accusing the police of colluding with operatives of the Progressive Liberal Party as it investigates last year’s physical attack on FNM vice chairman Richard Johnson outside the party’s headquarters in November.
Prodigal Sons told they must pay back $30,000 seed money by March
THE Prodigal Sons has until March 31 to repay the government $30k in seed money after failing to participate in the recent Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades, the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture said in a statement yesterday.
Boy says unarmed dad was shot in the back by police
AN 11-year-old boy who saw police kill his father testified during an inquest in the Coroner’s Court yesterday.
TOO EASY TO BEAT THE BAIL MONITORS: Company overseeing ankle bracelets under review, says Davis
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said people on bail for serious crimes have been able to remove their ankle bracelets easily with just a paper clip –– a concerning fact for authorities angered about people on bail committing serious crimes.
Amateur golfers Gibson, Johnson miss the cut
It wasn’t the type of performance that Richard Gibson Jr anticipated in his return to the Latin America Amateur Championships.
Teams advance in baiss sudden death playoffs
FOUR teams advanced to the championship round of the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) playoffs last night while their potential opponents square off today at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium.
Samuel P Haven Soccer Nationals April 25-May 4
THE Samuel P Haven Jr High School is excited to announce the dates for the 2024 Soccer Nationals, set to take place from April 25 to May 4.
Athletes of the Month: Charlton and Mullings run away with January honours
Devynne Charlton and Ken Mullings put on stellar performances in January to run away with the first Player of the Month honours for 2024.
Eva Hilton shockers emerge as champions
AT the end of two exciting days of competition, the Eva Hilton Shockers emerged as the girls’ champions of the New Providence Public Primary Schools Association’s Sherman Smith Basketball Tournament.
Disturbing trend in democracy
We are witnessing a disturbing trend in our Bahamian democracy. The recent video clip from the House of Assembly has left many of us feeling uneasy, and rightfully so. Prime Minister Davis' attempt to discredit the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Michael Pintard, through character assassination and unfounded accusations raises serious concerns about the direction of our nation.
Representative democracy
When we say that we have a representative democracy here in The Bahamas, are we simply flamming again, like that tale about the Governor General being the Head Of State? We all know that the Prime Minister runs things - even the selection (and de facto appointment) of the Governor General. This brings to mind that saying: The wrongest thing one could ever do is know a lie and think it true!
Man accused of disarming a police woman charged with attempted murder
A MAN was imprisoned yesterday after being accused of attacking and disarming a woman police officer last month after a high-speed chase following an alleged housebreaking.
Man found guilty of possession of loaded gun gets three-and-a-half years jail time
A MAN was sentenced to three and a half years in prison yesterday after being found guilty of having a loaded gun on Commonwealth Boulevard in 2021.
Man pleads guilty to housebreaking and car theft and receives six-months in prison
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison after admitting to stealing a car from a residence in Pride Estates last week.
Milo Butler to distribute two more Bahamian producers
A major wholesaler has agreed to distribute the products of two more Bahamian food producers via an agreement with the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC).
Family Island renewable energy search generates 100 questions
The Family Island renewable energy tender process has sparked more than 100 questions from potential bidders and interested investors, a Cabinet minister has revealed.
Tuesday, January 30
FACE TO FACE – Mervin Culmer: Unsung hero of Palmetto Point
ELEUTHERA native Mervin Culmer is a staple in his community. He is known for encouraging young people, hosting and participating in community events, and exhibiting pure dedication and love to his family.
BTVI launches solar programme
Bahamas Technical Vocational Institute yesterday launched its training for the Installation and Maintenance of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems.
Police investigate industrial accident at Grand Bahama Shipyard
GRAND Bahama police are investigating an industrial accident at the Grand Bahama Shipyard that has left a 25-year-old man hospitalised.
Concern over Margaritaville at Sea discontinuing ticket sales in Grand Bahama
Kwasi Thompson, Member of Parliament for East Grand Bahama, is concerned about Margaritaville’s decision to stop selling tickets originating from Grand Bahama.
‘The Bahamas is a safe place to come’, says PM
AFTER the United States changed the country’s travel advisory, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said his message to tourists remains: “The Bahamas is a safe place to come. Continue to come.”
UB staff protest for ‘overdue’ salary review
SEVERAL dozen University of The Bahamas staffers yesterday protested outside of the university as they waited for a long promised salary review.
Conflicting rights: The accused versus society
SADLY, in the last few weeks, New Providence has become the scene of senseless violence, and more disturbingly, this violence has touched women and children caught-up in the culture of violence, and the crossfire.
POETRY IN MOTION: Meet the ‘Iconique’ cast of dancers who will be bringing world-class ballet to the Bahamas
In March 2022, Xander Parish fled St Petersburg – where he had been the principal dancer with the renowned Mariinsky Ballet – in protest of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Prodigal Sons forced to return $30K seed funding
The Prodigal Sons Junkanoo Group will be forced to return $30,000 in seed funding to the government after the Category A group dropped out of both the 2023 Boxing Day and 2024 New Year’s Day parades.
'No fear of contradiction' on Govt $500m loan use
The Ministry of Finance's top official last night denied that a recent $500m loan was used to pay-off a maturing government bond as the Opposition raised renewed concerns over the financing.
Bahamian overseas investments 'didn't quite hit' $250m prediction
Bahamian investments in international stocks, securities and real estate "didn't quite hit" the predicted $250m mark for 2023 "but came close", the Central Bank's governor revealed yesterday.
Gov't launches solar bid for 100MW in New Providence
The Prime Minister yesterday hailed "a turning point" for the Bahamian energy sector as the Government launched its search for up to 100 Mega Watts (MW) of renewable power for New Providence.
'Decade of contraction' ends with $50m credit expansion
The Central Bank's governor yesterday revealed "a decade of steady contraction" in lending to the private sector was halted by 2023's $50.3m credit expansion although mortgage activity remained "subdued".
Wynn's 300 building jobs to 'far outweigh' environment impacts
A $100m, 14-storey Goodman's Bay penthouse complex will create 300 construction jobs and generate benefits "that far outweigh" the touted limited environmental impact, it has been pledged.
Witness in Gibson trial claims she ‘cried out’ over abuse while at WSC
A WITNESS in Adrian Gibson’s criminal trial claimed she suffered abuse when she headed the health and safety department at the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC), prompting her to ask the former chairman to relieve her of the post.
PM: Another nation will step up on Haiti
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis expects another country to step up and lead a mission to stabilise Haiti if Kenya’s court prevents that country from playing the role, noting CARICOM countries lack the “capacity or the wherewithal” to lead the mission.
Father said ‘don’t shoot, there are children here’
A SIX-year-old boy who witnessed his father’s shooting death allegedly told his grandmother his father had his hands in the air and begged police not to shoot because children were around – a plea officers ignored.
PROSECUTORS KEY TO DEATH PENALTY: Dame Anita Allen speaks on bail and executions
FORMER Court of Appeal president Dame Anita Allen said prosecutors should be more aggressive in seeking the death penalty in appropriate murder cases.
Pilot amateur boxing programme at Uriah Mcphee
THE New Providence Amateur Boxing and the Bahamas Boxing Federation have teamed up, through the support of former boxer Andrew Albury, to begin a pilot amateur boxing programme at Uriah McPhee Primary School.
PREP holds first session
PREP, the Next Step Mentorship Programme, held its first Saturday session over the weekend.
Honouring retirees
THE Ministry of Education has honoured 80 retirees who dedicated between ten and 40 years of service.
Essay contest open to local students
THE Laws of Life Essay Competition is currently open to students through- out the Bahamas grades five through 12 and local college students age 25 and under.
Tyrone and Zachary emerge as champions
TYRONE Brown and Zachary Young emerged as the walk and run champions of the fourth Bain and Grants Town Dr Bernard Nottage Fun Run/Walk race held on Saturday.
Rising Under-12 tennis stars compete in first IC Bahamas Junior Series for the year
PLAYERS in the under- 12 division competed in the first IC Bahamas Junior Series for the year at the National Tennis Centre this weekend.
Ken Mullings’ coach pleased with what he saw
COACH Petros Kyprianou feels national record holder Ken Mullings has all the makings of being a top-notch decathlete.
Absent values and fathers in the home
Amidst all the wordiness surrounding criminality and murder in this small country, I have awaited reasonable, sensible and wise reflection on the calamity that has befallen this nation.
Taxation destroying middle-class
In the Nassau Guardian article it is stated that in 50 percent of car accidents the Bahamian drivers are uninsured and do not have a car insurance.
St George’s High School unofficial winner of GB Junior Junkanoo
ST George’s High School is the unofficial winner of the 2024 Anthony “Huck” Williams Junior Junkanoo Parade in Grand Bahama.
Trial of man accused of threatening to kill Davis is delayed again
THE trial of a 21-year-old man accused of threatening to kill Prime Minister Phillip “Brave” Davis last February was once again delayed yesterday because the prosecution is still waiting for a Bahamas Telecommunications Company representative to testify.
Man accused of attempted rape of 18-year-old girl remanded
A 47-year-old man was remanded in custody yesterday after being accused of attempting to sexually abuse an 18-year-old girl in New Providence last week.
Arawak Cay gains $130k sewage system upgrade
A Cabinet minister yesterday hailed the $130,000 upgrade of Arawak Cay's sewerage and pipe infrastructure as a "celebration".
Quaker remains 'very strong' despite recall
The Quaker brand's Bahamian wholesale distributor yesterday confirmed it will not drop its products despite recent recalls due to fears some may have become contaminated by salmonella tainting.
Abaco Chamber chief fears port PPP costs
Abaco's Chamber of Commerce president yesterday voiced concerns that outsourcing the Marsh Harbour port's redevelopment to private investors will increase the cost of living on the island.
Bahamas to grow 'in low 2% range' in '24
Improvements to workforce productivity and the ease of doing business are critical to boosting economic output with Bahamian GDP forecast to expand in "the low 2 percent range" in 2024.
Monday, January 29
WORLD VIEW – Red Sea crisis: Houthi attacks raising prices worldwide
UP until a few weeks ago, the Red Sea and Yemen held little significance for the peoples of Latin America and the Caribbean.
INSIGHT: Is murder a serious issue, or is it not?
IS it just me or is there some serious crosstalk going on over crime?
INSIGHT – Bahamas travel advisory: Zero violent crimes against visitors in 2024
AS we have learned over the many years, the US State Department is required by law to report on anything that may affect Americans travelling to other countries.
EDITORIAL: Failing to provide ‘ease of doing business’
IF there is one phrase that The Bahamas continues to fail to live up to, it is “ease of doing business”.
Junkanoo legend Anthony ‘Huck’ Williams remembered at funeral
THE Anthony “Huck” Williams 2024 Junior Junkanoo Parade was a spectacular display of culture and talent as 19 schools took to the road on Saturday in Freeport, Grand Bahama.
Quaker issues revised recall notice with additional products due to possible health risk
The Quaker Oats Company through its authorized distributor THOMPSON TRADING announced on Friday an expansion of the December 20th, 2023, recall...
'Changing' property market on up to 300% listings jump
A 200-300 percent increase in new listings is driving Bahamian real estate's "transition" away from a sellers' market by outstripping buyer demand, a prominent realtor is asserting.
Target cruising's top 10% for 'awesome' conversion
Nassau Cruise Port's top executive yesterday said The Bahamas must target the "top 10 percent" of cruise visitors with a compelling "value proposition" to realise a "huge" stopover conversion opportunity.
Airline chief: Do not pin FAA audit blame on us
A Bahamian aviation operator is voicing concern that he and other airlines are being set up to get the blame if this nation is downgraded by US federal regulators following a recent audit.
'Highly, highly unlikely' tourism hurt by crime
Nassau Cruise Port's top executive yesterday said it is "highly, highly unlikely" that cruise passengers or any tourists will be impacted by early 2024's surge in murders and the fear of crime.
Police investigate alleged sexual assaults
Police are investigating two separate complaints of sexual assault involving two female visitors that occurred on Paradise Island.
‘Not enough time given’, says Abaco shanty town resident
ALTHOUGH for years government has threatened to destroy Abaco’s shanty towns, a father of two facing eviction from The Farm fears his family will have nowhere to go before the deadline is up to leave the unregulated community, his home for 20 years.
Chief Supt Skippings: Country is still a safe place
AFTER the United States raised its travel advisory for The Bahamas over the weekend, police called a press conference yesterday to assure the public that they are working to address the high murder rate.
Pintard says Road Traffic is in ‘chaos’ as govt did not maintain facilities
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said there is “chaos” at the Road Traffic Department as customers, forced to visit smaller substations, complain of long lines and a licence plate print machine that does not consistently work.
LAST BREATH ON WAY TO HOSPITAL: Sister says victim only went out to celebrate his friend’s birthday
A WOMAN rushing a stabbing victim to the hospital crashed into a wall after seeing her friend take his last breath as her birthday celebration night turned to tragedy.
Police shoot man in leg after car chase
POLICE shot a 38-year-old man in the Carmichael Road area on Saturday after he allegedly tried to disarm an officer of his weapon.
We must stand together against violence
In the wake of an unsettling surge in violence within the first week of the new year, the Eta Psi Omega Chapter, Pi Upsilon Omega Chapter and Tau Nu Chapter (the Bahamas Chapters) of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. express profound concern and an unwavering commitment to address acts of violence displayed in our community.
Never mistake law for justice
It is my opinion that Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander's criticisms of the courts of law granting bail to accused persons (males) are highly detrimental and intrusive as it relates to the role and duties of a Commissioner of Police of the Royal Bahamas Police Force by calling for yet another amendment to the Bail Act.
Grand Bahama man convicted of child abduction receives three-year prison sentence
A 27-year-old Grand Bahama man was convicted of child abduction and sentenced to three years in prison in Grand Bahama last week.
Bahamas failing to fully exploiting trade deals
The Prime Minister says Bahamian businesses are failing to properly exploit trade agreements that would give them preferential export access and potentially lower the cost of imports.
Mullings and McCoy break national records
With personal best performances in six of the seven individual events, Ken Mullings combined his points total to improve on his own Bahamas national record in the men’s heptathlon, while producing a world-leading performance.
Junior sailing champions
JUNIOR sailors took the waters of Montagu Bay by storm over the weekend at the 2024 Deltec Youth Regatta to be crowned victors.
Governor: Profit repatriation tax would deter investment
The Central Bank's governor has warned against introducing a tax that solely targets profit repatriation on the grounds that it may deter foreign direct investment (FDI) into The Bahamas.
Jeremy Paul wins Bahamas Great Exuma Classic
IN the final round, with back-to-back bogey-free 5-under 67s, Jeremy Paul, a 29-year-old golfer from Germany and a graduate of the University of Colorado, emerged the winner of this year’s Korn Ferry Tour at The Bahamas Great Exuma Classic.
NPWBA is back after four-year hiatus
AFTER a four-year hiatus, the New Providence Women’s Basketball Association is back and so was versatile scoring machine Philicia Kelly.
Professional boxer Carl Hield improves his record to 4-0
IT was a new opponent but same result for pro boxer Carl Hield who lifted his hands in celebration for the fourth straight bout.
Taxi union resolves Atlantis differences
Taxi drivers say they have resolved differences with Atlantis that previously saw them threaten to block the bridge to Paradise Island.
Environmental regulator to gain 'spot fine' power
The Department of Environmental Planning & Protection (DEPP) is awaiting passage of a law that will allow it to issue “spot fines” for anyone found guilty of infractions.
Yacht charters able to aid cruise conversion
Charter yacht industry participants say the sector can play a key role in converting cruise passengers to higher spending stopover visitors.
PM: Family Islands 'must not be left out'
The Prime Minister says the Family Islands must "not be left out" as he pointed to "major" investments in those locations and the $1.5bn project pipeline for Grand Bahama.
Saturday, January 27
Two dead, two in hospital after shooting and stabbing incidents
Two people are dead and two others are in hospital after a triple shooting on Friday night and a stabbing incident early on Saturday.
Friday, January 26
Soaring crime rate 'impacting EMS staff mentally'
NATIONAL Emergency Medical Services Deputy Director Kevin Bell said the soaring crime rate is having a “tremendous impact” on staff members mentally and efforts are being made for more mental healthcare avenues.
Man jailed for breaking into former girlfriend's house, causing over $4,000 worth of damage
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison on Friday after he admitted to breaking into his former girlfriend’s house last month and setting fire to over $4,000 worth of her property out of revenge.
Three teenagers charged with causing harm
THREE teenage males were granted $4,000 bail after they allegedly injured a man in a fight in Acklins last month.
American tourists fined for drug possession
TWO American tourists were fined on Friday after they admitted to have a quantity of drugs in New Providence in two separate incidents last week.
Man charged with rape
A 36-year-old man was put behind bars on Friday accused of sexually assaulting a 19-year-old girl in New Providence last week.
Clubs & Societies January 24th, 2024
David Kirkaldy, governor of Rotary District 7020, paid a courtesy call on Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation Chester Cooper on January 18 at the ministry’s offices. Director General of Tourism, Latia Duncombe was also in attendance.
DIANE PHILLIPS: There’s power in our words
ALL my life I have been in love. It’s a love I can count on and even when it disappoints me or offends, I find a way to forgive because I know tomorrow is another day.
ERIC WIBERG: The Eleutheran Adventurers and William Sayle’s early days
THE story of the Eleutheran Adventurers is woven deeply into the fabric of national identity. The general themes are of escaping religious prosecution to take great risks by sailing to unknown shores – so far that is like the Puritan’s voyage in the Mayflower from England to New England’s Plymouth Rock.
Dr Allen warns that fentanyl is more dangerous and deadly
DR David Allen, a renowned Bahamian psychiatrist who witnessed the horrors of the crack cocaine epidemic in the Bahamas, warned that illicit fentanyl is more dangerous and deadly after officials noted that two people have died in Grand Bahama this year with the substance in their system.
EDITORIAL: Bail change sounds good, but what will it really mean?
IT all sounded very powerful and purposeful – no more bail for those who commit offences while out on bail already.
PHA Foundation ‘a step in the right direction’ says PM
THE Public Hospitals Authority celebrated its official launch of the PHA foundation yesterday, marking it as a significant milestone in the enhancement of healthcare in The Bahamas.
PM says ‘I have no disputes’ with GBPA
THE Prime Minister and Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) president yesterday sought to downplay the two sides’ differences with the latter saying he is unaware if Freeport’s regulator is up for sale.
Chamber chair blasts tax portal as ‘complete mess’
THE Chamber of Commerce’s chairman yesterday blasted the Government’s new online tax payment portal as “a complete mess” with frustrated businesses receiving no relief from deadlines or fines.
Hotel deal: ‘11th hour impasse’ over minimum wage workers
HOTEL employers yesterday pledged that an “11th hour impasse” will “not derail” their bid to reach a new industrial deal amid accusations they are seeking to “discriminate” against minimum wage staff.
Firms do not possess ‘unlimited money tree’
THE Chamber of Commerce’s chairman yesterday said the Government seems to feel firms have access to an “unlimited money tree” with the private sector often falling victim to “suppressive” policies.
Commission calls police in over ‘fictitious’ e-mail
THE Securities Commission yesterday called for a police probe into a “fictitious” e-mail purporting to have come from its top executive which criticised proposed Securities Industry Act reforms.
GBPA president says the port is not for sale
GRAND Bahama Port Authority president Ian Rolle said yesterday that the port is not for sale.
Tax environment ‘worrisome’ for Bahamas-keen investors
A SENIOR accountant yesterday suggested The Bahamas should "pause" to assess whether its tax structure and mooted reforms are making the jurisdiction sufficiently attractive to investors.
A helping hand as business teams with Urban Renewal
A BREAKFAST initiative was held yesterday by the Lakay Lounge in conjunction with the Nassau Village Urban Renewal Centre.
Hotel union protests in wage fight with Atlantis
BAHAMAS Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union’s (BHCAWU) president Darrin Woods said union members who receive tips are tired of fighting for a pay increase, declaring: “Enough is enough.”
AG says he is not at odds with PM on Bail Act
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said his view that the Bail Act does not need to be amended is not at odds with the Davis administration’s move to amend the law.
Witness faints in court after Adrian Gibson trial testimony
A WITNESS in Adrian Gibson’s criminal trial fainted in court after testifying yesterday, prompting court employees to call the ambulance.
Eviction notices placed on 95 shanty structures in Abaco
EVICTION notices were posted on 95 structures in an unregulated community in Abaco on Wednesday as the government ramps up efforts to eliminate shanty towns on that island.
BLAIR DEATH PROBE ‘WAS NOT DEFICIENT’: Police officer defends two-paragraph report into fatal shooting
THE officer who led the investigation into the 2019 Blair Estates police-involved killing of three men denied yesterday that his investigation was deficient after lawyers noted that his report was only two paragraphs long.
Man fined $150 for exposing himself while drunk at webshop
A MAN was fined yesterday after admitting to getting drunk and exposing himself outside a gaming house in Nassau Village earlier this week.
Man accused of having loaded gun in car gets bail for $7,500
A MAN was granted bail after he was allegedly found with a loaded gun in his car near Kemp Road earlier this month.
Minister of Sports Mario Bowleg impressed with baseball growth
LAST week was filled with celebrations as seven Bahamian baseball players signed professional contracts with five Major League Baseball (MLB) organisations during the 2024 MLB International Signing period to kickstart the next chapter of their baseball journeys.
NPBA Recap: CB Giants, Cyber Tech Blue Marlins remain undefeated
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants, the reigning division one champions, along with the Cyber Tech Blue Marlins reeled in emphatic victories against the Sunlight Cottage Stampers and Mekaddish Millionaires in Wednesday’s action for the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA).
Boxing club to honour ‘Tank’, ‘Pretty Boy’
ALL-OUT Boxing Club will honour two of the greatest Bahamian boxers this weekend during their inaugural Sherman ‘the Caribbean Tank’ Williams and ‘Pretty Boy’ Floyd Seymour National Pride Boxing Championships.
DR KENT BAZARD – Warming up: More than just breaking a sweat
AS we step onto the field, court or track, the prelude to performance often takes a backseat to the main act.
Phillando signs with Pittsburgh Pirates
WHILE there have been a number of minor league signings taking place in New Providence over the past few weeks, there was one held in Grand Bahama on Sunday in the Grand Lucayan Convention Center.
Crying wolf too often on crime?
I have postulated before and I will do so again, in saying, without fear of contradiction that crime, per se, is not out of control. Yes, it is to be readily admitted that the inordinate spike in alleged homicides is problematic, but most all other types of crimes and criminal offences are trending downwards. Mind you, any type of crime poses destabilising effects of the economy and national life but, I submit, the average Bahamian is apparently getting hysterical or worse.
We are our brother’s keeper
As Bahamians, we recently celebrated the big fifty (50) years as an Independent Nation. On July 10, 2023, thousands stood erect as a new day dawned upon these empheral shores. We have come a long way baby there is nothing we cannot achieve as a people academically there is nowhere we cannot go. We are just that versatile!
Man on trial for murders has bail revoked by judge after breaching conditions ten times
A SUPREME Court judge revoked the bail of a man who allegedly breached his bail more than 10 times ahead of his murder and attempted murder trial, which is set for next month.
Man charged with molesting 13-year-old bail set at $7,500
A 58-year-old man was granted $7,500 bail yesterday after he was accused of molesting a 13-year-old girl two years ago.
Thursday, January 25
STATESIDE: Little suspense as Trump holds strong lead in GOP primaries
IT would be more fun and more interesting if the Iowa Republican caucuses and the New Hampshire GOP primary “race” had produced more suspense. The press would love that, because a real contest would get more people interested in their stories.
FRONT PORCH: We need long-term thinking on crime and violence issue
AROUND the world, governments, driven by the politics and exigencies of the moment, often respond with immediate or short-term measures designed to appease a public outcry and media reports demanding action on a given public policy issue.
Bahamian fashion designer to create outfits for Mickey and Minnie Mouse
DISNEY Cruise Line (DCL) revealed yesterday that acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett is collaborating with its team of artists to create all new outfits for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals. The characters will wear their exclusive styles at the cruise line’s new island destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, when it opens to guests in June.
Business Licences: Up to 20% facing extra scrutiny
UP to one in five Business Licence filings are facing extra scrutiny by the tax authorities, it was revealed yesterday, with construction, landscaping and “home based” auto dealers causing particular concern.
Unpaid property taxes hit $690m at mid-2021
UNPAID real property tax arrears totalled $690m at end-June 2021 despite exceeding target by 37 percent that fiscal year, the Government’s top financial watchdog revealed yesterday.
Albany chief faces ‘largest insider trading’ fine for decade at $50m
THE Bahamas-based billionaire who led Albany’s development will pay “the largest financial penalty for insider trading in a decade” at $50m after he yesterday pleaded guilty to perpetrating a securities fraud.
‘Moral imperative’ to boost financial watchdog’s staff
THE Government’s top financial watchdog has warned that “insufficient” staffing and resources are undermining its ability to protect Bahamians and hold successive administrations to account.
FTX peace terms approved by Bahamas and Delaware
THE peace deal between FTX’s Bahamian liquidators and their former US adversary has been approved by both the Supreme Court and Delaware Bankruptcy Court, it has been revealed.
Davis rebukes Pintard for calling Commissioner of Police ‘a liar’ in Johnson attack case
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis rebuked opposition leader Michael Pintard for saying Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander did not tell the truth when he said someone was in custody as police investigated an alleged physical attack on Free National Movement’s vice-chairman Richard Johnson.
PM say he does not believe US crime warning will have an effect on country’s tourism product
THE US Embassy of Nassau warned American citizens about this country’s murder rate yesterday, encouraging them to exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence.
Bahamasair plane forced to return due to engine defect
A BAHAMASAIR plane leaving Crooked Island yesterday was forced to immediately return after an incident occurred due to an engine defect shortly after take off.
Grandmother says she is haunted by tragedy
THE grandmother of 16-year-old Davinique Gray, who was murdered in her Nassau Village home on January 6, is haunted by the tragedy and fears no one will be arrested for the killing.
Two Grand Bahama deaths with fentanyl in their system this year
GRAND Bahama has already recorded two deaths of people found with fentanyl in their system in 2024, according to Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles, who said the drug was found in one person who died on the island last year.
Not so fast - lawyers say Parliament can’t scrap bail
DEFENCE lawyers said the amendments to the Bail Act Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis announced in the House of Assembly yesterday in response to the soaring murder rate will not significantly change the status quo or affect Supreme Court judges’ discretion to grant people bail.
Teen pump attendant shot in face at gas station has fractured skull
THE teenager shot in the face at a gas station on Tuesday night was disoriented but talkative after the attack, which has left him with a fractured skull and caused sales at the station to plummet.
UPDATED: Hotel union stages protest at Sidney Poitier Bridge
Members of the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union (BHCAWU) staged a protest at the Sidney Poitier Bridge this morning.
Ombudsman Bill will empower Bahamians and boost trust in govt, says Campbell
AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister Jomo Campbell said the Ombudsman Bill, which passed the House of Assembly last night, will empower Bahamians and boost trust in the government.
Man admits to four bail breaches, fined $2,000
A 20-year-old man was fined $2,000 after admitting to breaching his curfew while on release for a pending murder charge.
Rising hoops star VJ named to McDonald’s All-American roster
Bimini native Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe can now add being named to the 2024 boys McDonald’s All-American roster to his already long list of impressive accolades.
Sonja Knowles Track Classic on Saturday
THE fourth edition of the Sonja Knowles Track Classic returns to the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium this Saturday and Sunday with a new timing system to facilitate a quicker and more efficient track meet.
Special Olympics Bahamas lays out agenda for year
SPECIAL Olympics Bahamas experienced tremendous success in 2023 and now the non-profit organisation is looking to double down on their accomplishments in 2024.
Rolle denies he strangled elderly American woman in Cat Island
RODRIGO Rolle denied strangling an elderly American woman during a 2017 home invasion in Cat Island as his murder trial resumed yesterday.
France should lead in helping Haiti, not The Bahamas and CARICOM
I read carefully the words of Prime Minister Philip "Brave" Davis at the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Africa regarding the well-documented plight of Haiti.
Surprised and impressed by Michael Pintard
I would say I am a casual observer of Bahamian politics, but even I can’t deny that Pintard has really come into his own as a leader in our political landscape as of late.
Israel is deserving of our support
Now that Alicia Wallace has produced a long column on the grievances of Palestinians we shall look forward to another column on the problems which Israel has experienced for decades with hostile neighbours.
Man charged with housebreaking while on bail for murder charge
ASSISTANT Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt Evans charged Samuel McCoy, 34, with housebreaking, stealing and receiving.
American man fined $500 for having methamphetamines
AN American tourist was fined yesterday after admitting to having drugs in New Providence earlier this week.
DEIDRE BASTIAN: How to boost online client engagement
Trying to capture new customers can sometimes become challenging, especially is you are using Facebook and other social media platforms as your tools. This has been an issue for a while, prompting companies to invent new strategies to keep their numbers up.
Wednesday, January 24
ALICIA WALLACE: Join in the call for global strike and ceasefire for Palestine
This week, I am participating in the strike for Palestine, and I invite you to join for the remainder of the week if you are not already participating. This global strike week is about disrupting business as usual.
EDITORIAL: Be grateful for international support, but mind the red tape
THERE is a saying – often said to be an African proverb but whose exact origin is unclear – that comes to mind after today’s story in The Tribune about support being pledged by the United Kingdom in case of future hurricanes.
$10b lawsuit by Mexico to hold gun makers accountable for weapon trafficking revived
A US appeals court on Monday revived a $10 billion lawsuit by Mexico seeking to hold American gun manufacturers responsible for facilitating the trafficking of weapons to drug cartels across the US-Mexico border, according to Reuters.
RBDF Commodore pleased with how many women moved up in rank at recent promotions
SOME 400 people were promoted in the Royal Bahamas Defence Force earlier this month, and Commodore Raymond King is especially pleased with how many women are moving up the ranks.
PM: Break your bail and your bail is gone
Prime Minister Philip "Brave" Davis today tabled several amendments to the Bail Act intended to send strong message to bail offenders: “Break the law on bail, and your bail is gone”.
British billionaire and Albany developer Joe Lewis pleads guilty in insider trading case
British billionaire Joe Lewis, whose family trust owns the Tottenham Hotspur soccer club, pleaded guilty Wednesday to insider trading and conspiracy charges in New York, saying he knew that sharing nonpublic information about publicly traded companies was wrong and that his crimes have left him "so embarrassed."
UK stands ready to support Bahamas when disaster strikes
BRITISH High Commissioner Tom Hartley said the United Kingdom is ready to support the Bahamas in any way it can in response to hurricane disasters.
‘Absolute frenzy’ on VAT over tax portal struggles
BUSINESSES endured “an absolute frenzy” to meet Monday’s VAT payment deadline due to continued “growing pains” with the Department of Inland Revenue’s tax portal, it was revealed yesterday.
Controversial $1.3m propane plant agrees approval ‘quash'
A BID to develop a $1.3m “state-of-the-art” propane gas plant off Tonique Williams Highway was yesterday withdrawn before residents could seek to overturn the initial planning approvals it obtained.
Attorney loses challenge to overturn disbarment
A Bahamian attorney yesterday lost his challenge to the process that saw him disbarred over real estate transactions where he twice represented both parties in deals for the same property.
Gov't 'on target' for 60-day contract unveiling by March
The Government's top procurement official yesterday predicted that it will be "on target" to disclose all contract awards within 60 days - as required by law - come March 2024.
Balmoral condo hotel appeals may be joined
The planning authorities will decide on February 15 whether to combine two appeals over the Balmoral Club's plans to develop a condo hotel into one hearing.
US warns citizens to use "extreme caution" in eastern New Providence
The US Embassy in Nassau released a security alert warning citizens about the murder rate and to exercise extreme caution in the eastern part of New Providence.
'VIOLENCE AND GANGS DON’T GET YOU NOWHERE IN LIFE': Teens behind ‘Get Dem Reggie’ video using platform to reduce school violence
TWO Bahamian teenagers who became a viral sensation for their captivating “Get Dem Reggie” video are now using their platform to reduce school violence, saying they want students to know that “violence and gangs don’t get you nowhere in life”.
Did ‘common sense go out the window’, asks lawyer
ROMONA Farquharson-Seymour, a lawyer representing the estate of three men police killed at a mansion in Blair in 2019, asked an investigator during a Coroner’s Court inquest yesterday if “common sense goes out the window if officers are involved in a shooting investigation”.
Three taken to hospital after shootings in Grand Bahama and New Providence
A 64-year-old Freeport man is in hospital and two men are in custody following a shooting incident in Freeport on Tuesday evening - while two males were shot in New Providence.
Gathered to remember and to pray
THE soaring murder rate is triggering grief-stricken relatives of people killed over the years by gun violence, dozens of whom gathered yesterday to mark Families of Murder Victims Day with prayer, songs and tears.
‘I WAS FIRED FOR FOLLOWING RULES’: Adrian Gibson trial hears claim of WSC manager termination
AS Adrian Gibson’s criminal trial resumed yesterday, a Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) manager claimed she was “terminated” after refusing to pay companies awarded landscaping contracts because she lacked necessary documentation.
Man accused of molesting 11-year-old girl in Eleuthera granted $5,000 bail
A 20-year-old man was granted $5,000 bail yesterday after he allegedly molested an 11-year-old girl in Eleuthera last week.
Teen on bail for murder ordered to pay $1,000 fine for curfew breach
A 19-year-old boy was fined $1,000 after admitting to breaching his curfew while on release on a murder charge.
NPBA Recap: Regulators and Heatwaves in win column
THE Leno Regulators and Heatwaves snuck away with victories in division one and two of the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) on Monday night.
Minister: National stadium ‘repairs are going quite well’
CONCERNS have mounted as repairs continue at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium and Betty Kelly- Kenning Aquatic Centre about whether the renovations of both venues will be completed in time for the 2024 CARIFTA Aquatics Championships and World Athletics Relays in March and May respectively.
British high commission building and donating an e-class sloop in support of sailing
AS the 2024 year begins, the government has already announced plans for co-curricular sailing in schools, for a new National Sailing Academy, and for new oversight bodies for sloop sailing.
Boundaries for countries a necessity
As insidious as that Berlin Conference was, the establishment of clear and well defined boundaries then cannot be dismissed as simply an atrocity of history.
BPSU, treat members better
I write regarding the poor operations of The Bahamas Public Service Union. Where are the premiums and dues going? Why does one have to wait for eight months for a medical claim and more than three months for a death benefit?
Garvin Clarke named Player of Week again
For the second time this year as he makes his transition from the University of Akron to the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Garvin Clarke has been named the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) West Athlete of the Week.
Pro golfer Robinson misses the cut
FOR his second appearance in the 2024 Korn Ferry Tour that opened its 2024 season here in the Bahamas, Bahamian representative Devaughn Robinson missed the cut for the main draw.
Cocaine plane goes unnoticed
Around about 15th January this month, a video began circulating on Social Media about an aeroplane landing at Ohio State University airport with nearly 300 lbs of cocaine on board.
American man sentenced to 30 months in prison on possession of $75k worth of hemp
AN American male was sentenced to two and half years in prison yesterday after admitting to having over $75,000 worth of marijuana in his airport luggage last Sunday.
Approval delays cost ex-Olympic swimmer
Planning authorities yesterday informed a former Olympic swimmer that there are no legal restrictions that can block the proposed expansion of his Rose Island beach day excursion.
Bahamas losing boating ground to the Caribbean
A former Association of Bahamas Marinas (AB) president yesterday warned Caribbean rivals are gaining a competitive advantage over The Bahamas with "new and innovative" legislation.
Charter Yacht Show to feature 60% more boats
The Bahamas Charter Yacht Show is this week returning for its second-year from January 25 to 28.
Tuesday, January 23
BTC working to restore services after traffic accident damaged equipment
A traffic accident on Monday damaged BTC's equipment, disrupting services to eastern communities in New Providence.
FACE TO FACE – Dr Sharron Neely: Hair care for life
THANKS to lots of activism and education, mental health awareness is on the rise. Mental health refers to emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects the way we think, feel, and act, and it helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. While there are some obvious triggers that lead to the deterioration of mental health, one hair care expert wants the public to know that hair loss is one of the triggers.
Coleby-Davis says Road Traffic Department's relocation is ‘imminent’
TRANSPORT and Energy Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis said the relocation of the Road Traffic Department is imminent because the staff has reached a boiling point over the poor working conditions at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
Baha Mar Foundation and govt join to launch the Calvin J Morley Safe School Zone initiative
THE aunt of Calvin Morley, Jr, a 13-year-old killed while trying to cross the street on his way home from school in 2012, said his memory will live on through a safe school zone initiative launched yesterday in his honour.
Resort revenue growth relies on 5-7% room rate increases
THE BAHAMAS is relying on a 5-7 percent increase in room rates (ADRs) to drive resort revenue growth in 2024 due to limited opportunities to expand occupancies, a senior hotelier has revealed.
Developer eyes second price rise after hitting $15m in sales
A SOUTH-west New Providence development yesterday revealed it will increase prices for the second time “in a few weeks” after earning $15m from selling 35 percent of its available lots within five months.
Providers back competition rules move ‘with open arms’
THE move by utilities regulators to consolidate competition supervision with an increased focus on ‘after the fact’ investigations has been welcomed “with open arms” by operators.
Water Corp couldn’t ‘bolt all doors’ on union chief
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation could not be expected to “bolt all doors” to keep out a former union president who disobeyed orders to go on vacation by continuing to work, the Court of Appeal has ruled.
‘Huge blow’ if no Stella Maris purchaser found
LONG Island’s chief councillor yesterday said the island will suffer a “huge blow” if a buyer cannot be found for the Stella Maris resort.
Gov’t yet to decide over Abaco ports
A CABINET minister yesterday said the Government has yet to make a final decision on the two proposals it received to operate and manage North Abaco’s port.
'Very confusing' boat fees needing urgent resolution
Bahamian maritime operators yesterday warned the Government "urgently needs to resolve" the fall-out from the "very confusing" suspension of 1,000 percent and greater hikes in boat registration fees.
Haitian Pastor helped 20 since demolition of shanty towns
LEAGUE of Haitian Pastors president Dr Jean Paul Charles said he helped 20 residents affected by recent demolitions in New Providence who needed money and food.
Boy killed in Pinewood shooting was ‘no bad boy’
A GAS tank exploded when gunmen shot up a house in Pinewood on Sunday, preventing the murder victim and his injured friend from evading the shooters, according to a neighbour who hid himself during the ordeal.
Pintard says ‘enough is enough’ as murders rise
FREE National Movement leaders held press conferences in New Providence and Grand Bahama yesterday to slam the Davis administration’s reaction to the soaring murder rate, which FNM leader Michael Pintard said is an epidemic.
MOMS WEEP AS BLAIR SHOOTING CASE BEGINS: Inquest to probe police killing of three men in 2019
THE mothers of three men police killed in Blair Estates in 2019 burst into tears when close-ups of their sons’ bloody corpses were shown in court yesterday after the long-awaited inquest into the matter began.
Man remanded on charge of attempted rape of a woman
A 52-year-old man was remanded in custody yesterday after he allegedly tried to sexually assault a woman last week.
Man charged with last week’s murder at Parkgate Road
A 33-year-old man was remanded in custody yesterday after he allegedly murdered a man who was on bail for murder on Parkgate Road.
Women’s National Beach Soccer Team home
THE Bahamas’ 12-member women’s national beach soccer team returned from the National Beach Soccer League Fort Lauderdale Pro-Am Open 24 over the weekend.
BAISS Inter-School Track & Field Meet could be postponed
THERE’S a possibility that the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools may have to either delay or postpone their inter-school track and field meet this year.
Cougars senior boys destroy Stars, 75-23
The Charles W Saunders Cougars showed the Bahamas Academy Stars why they are the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools defending senior boys’ basketball champions.
Chickens have come home to roost
Our country is running a high fever.
Centreville community deteriorating
Kindly allow me space in your column to express an opinion on the deterioration of the community of Centreville and the quality of some of the illegal migrants in the area, especially Mount Royal Avenue and its side corners and Mount Rose Avenue and its side corners.
Capital punishment for the poor
I see that lots of Bahamian politicians are putting their full support behind the resumption of capital punishment in The Bahamas; but capital punishment is Bahamian law already - and has been so for centuries, and the Privy Council rules according to the law! Silly season must be approaching.
Man charged with vehicular manslaughter of two people
A MAN was granted $10,000 bail yesterday after he was accused of causing the death of two people on a motorcycle in a traffic accident on East Street last October.
Student Spotlight: Dakoda Ashe
DAKODA Ashe is a sixth-grade honour roll student at St Anne’s School.
An author at the age of 11
LAVARIA Storr, head girl at Low Sound Primary School, Andros, has published her first novel “A Quilt Called Life” about the challenges that she has faced and the ways that she overcame them.
The BTVI Story: A strategy for success
JUST one year into his educational journey at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) and Bryan Dillett is already reaping the rewards of studying Information Technology (IT) Management.
Mentor scheme launched
ST MATTHEW’S Anglican Church launched a mentorship programme for youth in the church and the Free Town area last weekend.
Hotline launched to tackle truancy
THE Ministry of Education and Technical Vocation launched a school attendance hotline to combat truancy among students.
Monday, January 22
WORLD VIEW: From Crisis to Democracy: OAS Shines in Guatemala’s Political Transition
THE Organization of American States (OAS) demonstrated its continuing relevance and importance to member states by playing a constructive role in ensuring the transition of government in Guatemala, despite numerous attempts to disrupt the process.
INSIGHT: What do calls for the death penalty really say about us?
THE continuing nonsense talk about the death sentence continues – despite there being little likelihood of it ever being carried out, and not a stitch of evidence being presented to suggest that it will serve as a deterrent to further crime.
EDITORIAL: What is govt’s end game in GBPA row?
WHAT is the government trying to achieve with its ongoing dispute with the Grand Bahama Port Authority?
‘Crime crackdown shouldn’t violate human rights’
HUMAN Rights Bahamas (HRB) said the country’s rising murder rate is no excuse for law enforcement to arbitrarily detain people, warning that the Davis administration’s plan to crack down on crime shouldn’t violate human rights.
Realtors say ‘no such thing as ease of doing business’
PROMINENT realtors say “there’s no such thing as ease of doing business in The Bahamas” with the time required to close property deals having increased four to six-fold.
Baha Mar contractor denies $2.4m ‘bribe or conspiracy’
ATTORNEYS for Baha Mar’s main contractor dismissed claims that $2.4m paid to a company run by the son of Perry Christie’s senior adviser represented “a bribe or conspiracy” to influence the then-government.
GBPA ‘hostile takeover sends wrong message’
THE Opposition’s leader is warning the Government it will “send the wrong message” to investors if it attempts a “hostile takeover” of the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) via arbitration demands.
‘High time’ to find Stella Maris buyer at $11.75m
A LONG Island resort’s principal yesterday said “it’s high time to put it in the hands” of an owner able to take it to four-five star status once the $11.75m asking price is met.
Woman’s pandemic job loss becomes a ‘Litable’ success
RISHAUN Bowe was laid off from her server job due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the job loss turned out to be a silver lining when it pushed her to start her own frozen drink business called “Litables”.
Woman who fell at Corporate Centre wins case – awarded over $100k in damages and fees
THE Supreme Court awarded a 72-year-old woman $62,500 in damages and $55,000 in costs after she sued the Goodman’s Bay Corporate Centre following a slip and fall accident she had in 2001.
Man dies after being thrown from his motorbike on JFK
A MAN in his early to mid-20s died after he lost control of his motorbike yesterday.
Tributes paid to Dr Elwood Donaldson, who died age 86
TRIBUTES were paid over the weekend to Dr Elwood Donaldson, the former parliamentarian and nation builder who died at 86.
Stuart Cove says shark attack at Atlantis first since operation began
STUART Cove said a shark attack at Atlantis last week involving a ten-year-old boy is the first guest-related incident since the operation began in 2006.
Friday: Murder. Sunday afternoon: Murder. Sunday night: Murder – WHEN WILL THE KILLINGS END?
ANOTHER bloody weekend saw two men and a woman murdered, bringing the murder count to 17 for the year.
Early tourism arrivals ahead of 2023’s pace
THE deputy prime minister says early 2024 tourism numbers are ahead of last year’s comparatives as he reiterated that The Bahamas expects to exceed nine million visitor arrivals for 2023.
Rohan inks deal with Washington Nationals
Rohan Culmer, FTF Class of 2024 prospect, signed the dotted line on his professional contract to join the Washington Nationals on Saturday at the Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium.
Elite pro hurdler Charlton leads the pack
ONCE again, elite professional hurdler Devynne Charlton led the Bahamian contingent of athletes competing in various meets around the United States of America with another world-leading performance in the women’s 60 metres hurdles.
Track and field athletes make the cut for CARIFTA
THE sixth edition of the DTSP Wolf Pack Track Classic saw the trend of athletes qualifying in field events continue while track athletes joined the count.
Works officials to inspect Abaco infrastructure woe
A CABINET minister says Ministry of Works officials will visit Abaco tomorrow to inspect the island’s roads and other much-needed upgrades to public infrastructure.
Consumer complaints hit new monthly record
THE Consumer Protection Commission’s (CPC) top executive says complaints against businesses have hit a new monthly record in January with Bahamians becoming more aware of how they can seek redress.
Week-long Marine Conservation Workshop hosted at Defence Force Coral Harbour Base
THE Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF), in partnership with The Bahamas Wildlife Enforcement Network (BahWEN) and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), hosted its fifth week-long Marine Conservation Workshop from the 15th to 19th January 2024 at the HMBS Coral Harbour Base.
The death penalty not happening
My fellow Bahamians, many of you are clamouring for the use of the death penalty as you’re aghast at the proliferation of crime, senseless murders being committed on our streets.
Business owners are frustrated
It’s a new year, and sad to say, we are starting it off with a ball of confusion in this country – the horrific crime situation unfortunately topping the list.
Focus on the middle and lower class
The road to re-election for Prime Minister Philip Davis could be a simple one:
8th annual cycling event eclipses $500K in fundraising for Exuma causes
The Tour de Turquoise, the charity cycling event that raises funds for vital causes in Exuma while boosting healthy living and community spirit, revealed today this weekend’s ride was the most successful in the event’s history, raising nearly $150,000 and pushing total donations since the event started past the half million-dollar mark.
Training agency graduates latest recruits
THE National Training Agency (NTA) held a graduation ceremony for its 22nd group of New Providence trainees last Thursday at its Gladstone Road and Munnings Drive location.
Consumer complaints hit new monthly record
THE Consumer Protection Commission’s (CPC) top executive says complaints against businesses have hit a new monthly record in January with Bahamians becoming more aware of how they can seek redress.
Prince Harry drops libel case against Daily Mail after damaging pretrial ruling
PRINCE Harry dropped his libel lawsuit Friday against the publisher of the Daily Mail tabloid following a punishing ruling in which a judge suggested he might lose at trial.
Tata Steel announces plans to cut 2,800 jobs in a blow to Welsh town built on steelmaking
INDIAN firm Tata Steel announced Friday it will close both blast furnaces at its plant in Port Talbot, Wales, eliminating 2,800 jobs, as part of plans to make its unprofitable U.K. operation leaner and greener.
Sunday, January 21
Two dead, one in critical condition after separate shootings
Two people are dead and another is in critical condition after two shooting incidents on Sunday.
Saturday, January 20
Minnis: Govt must be seen to implement the laws
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said on Friday that the government must lead by example in the fight against crime, saying the government can’t be “seen as a lawbreaker and at the same time expect others to do different.”
Former PM voices support for capital punishment
IN light of the country’s soaring murder count, former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis on Friday expressed his support for capital punishment, saying he remains a strong advocate for hanging.
Aircraft crash lands on runway in Cat Cay – no injuries reported
Police on Bimini are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash landing of an aircraft on Cat Cay, at around 4.30pm on Friday.
Man dies after shooting on West End Avenue
Police are investigating after a 40-year-old man died following a shooting on Friday night in the vicinity of Market Street and West End Avenue.
Friday, January 19
Conditional discharge for man accused of damaging woman's car
A 54-year-old man who admitted to damaging a woman’s car last week was given a conditional discharge on Friday.
Man accused of attempted fraud
A 31-year-old man was granted bail after he was accused of trying to defraud a bank of more than $5,000 earlier this month.
Clubs & Societies January 19th, 2024
The Nassau Bahamas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., celebrated its 111th Founders Day on January 13 with a weekend full of community service, bonding, and empowerment.
DIANE PHILLIPS – Where oh where has the Girl gone?
THE striking man saddled up to the bar, cool, confident, and in a calm voice said to the bartender, “Gimme a girl.”
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION – Changes needed to reduce traffic fatalities on Eleuthera’s streets
HOW many of our mothers, fathers, children, community leaders, educators and visitors will we continue losing to traffic fatalities in Eleuthera? Behind each life lost and statistic lies a personal tragedy; it represents a member of a close-knit community, a friend, a family member, or a neighbour taken away prematurely.
EDITORIAL: Implementing crime crackdown not easy
THE hurdles faced in implementing any crackdown in crime are challenging – and in today’s Tribune we see a glimpse of the difficulty, and a hint of the price people may be asked to pay.
Marathon MP takes 40 senior citizens to lunch
ON a joyous day of eating delicious food, making new friends, and learning crime prevention tips, 40 senior citizens were treated to a day out in town by the Marathon Urban Renewal Senior Association.
‘Commissioner will look to resolve ankle monitor issues with vendor’
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander would meet Metro Security Solutions leaders, hoping to get on the same page about the ankle monitoring system after the two sides blamed the other for challenges.
Cooper not concerned that crime will impact tourism
TOURISM Minister Chester Cooper said he is not concerned that crime will impact tourism, adding: “The Bahamas is a safe place.”
Dr Elwood Donaldson dies age 86
Former Member of Parliament and Ambassador Dr Elwood Donaldson has died at the age of 86.
Govt accused of Port nationalisation ‘ruse’
A PROMINENT Freeport attorney yesterday accused the Government of employing “a ruse” and “deception” by seeking to “nationalise” the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) under the guise of Bahamianisation.
Royal Caribbean Chief: 'Proof is in the pudding'
ROYAL Caribbean’s top executive yesterday revealed the increase in total passengers it will bring to The Bahamas in 2024 to 4.4m is a key factor driving its Paradise Island beach club project.
Blacklistings breaching Bahamas’ human rights
THE Bahamas plans to potentially approach the International Court of Justice (ICJ) with the argument that multiple blacklistings have breached its citizens’ human rights, it was revealed yesterday.
Opposition doubles down on ‘fiscal jeopardy’ claim
THE Opposition’s finance spokesman yesterday doubled down on assertions that “the Government’s fiscal projec- tions are in jeopardy” and need to be adjusted in next month’s mid-year Budget.
‘We’d have accepted 100-150%’: Government suspends boat fee hikes
Bahamian fishermen yesterday said they would “have no problem” paying 100-150 percent boat registration fee increases as they hailed the decision to suspend the “utterly devastating” four-digit hikes.
Cieon was ‘sweet and loving’, family member says
CIEON Davis often visited Latter Rain Way, one of his favourite spots in Abaco, to sit, talk and laugh with his friends, but he met his death there on Tuesday when a gunman shot him 13 times, leaving his dead body in the road and his family distraught.
Govt grappling with how to prove someone is in a gang
EVEN as the Davis administration promises to strengthen anti-gang legislation in response to the murder rate, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe said the government is grappling with how to prove someone is a gang member.
Man shot after police say he took weapon from a female officer
POLICE shot a 29-year-old man yesterday after he allegedly disarmed a female officer.
DETENTION ‘IS PRICE WE PAY’: Munroe says wrongful identification and arrest a ‘potential inconvenience’
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said though facial recognition CCTVs may wrongly identify someone as a criminal, “being arrested on suspicion and being held up to 48 hours is part of the price we pay for living in a free, democratic, orderly society”.
Vanderpool raising the bar
Like father like son. While Brent Vanderpool set the stage, he has passed the pole onto his son Brenden Vanderpool, who is now taking pole vaulting to higher heights for the Bahamas on the international scene.
Grand Bahamians set to be honoured at awards banquet
SOME of the pioneers of softball and baseball in Grand Bahama will be honoured during the Rising Stars Softball’s Pioneers Awards Banquet on Friday, January 26 at Blair House on Magellan Drive, Lucaya.
Hield ‘ready’ for his first pro bout of 2024
PRO boxer Carl Hield concluded 2023 on a high note, winning three straight bouts since his professional debut last October. With the calendar now flipped to 2024, Hield is ready for his fourth professional fight against Jose Agustin Julio scheduled for next week Thursday. The two will go head-to-head in the super welterweight division in Cartagena, Colombia.
NPBA president: We are ready for 2nd half of season
THE second half of the 2023-24 New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) regular season is now in full swing as teams round into form to close out the season strong.
DR KENT BAZARD – Recognising athlete overload: Balancing ambition and well-being
IN the world of sports, ambition and dedication shine as guiding stars for athletes. Their relentless pursuit of excellence often leads to awe-inspiring performances, but it also casts a shadow - a shadow called athlete overload.
PwC chief: Business licence audits to be ‘intense process’
A SENIOR accountant yesterday affirmed the new Business Licence verification will be an “intense process” but both auditors and firms “should be able to” meet the Government’s deadlines.
Stage set for 4th Dr Bernard Nottage 5k fun run/walk race
THE stage is all set for the fourth edition of the Bain & Grants Town Dr Bernard Nottage 5K Fun Run/Walk race and Health Expo.
Man accused of paralysing woman charged
A 26-year-old man is behind bars after he allegedly paralysed a 47-year-old woman last weekend.
Man charged with armed robbery outside bank
A MAN was imprisoned yesterday after he allegedly robbed a man at gunpoint outside a bank parking lot last November.
In defence of our police officers
For the greater part of fifty years, I have been privy to a set of judgemental remarks enunciated by people who have had the gall to levy these against, and toward our police officers, having done so, without the proof in many instances, when the sacrifices given the part of officers, these brilliant and valiant patriots were unmatched anywhere else in these Isles. You might ask the writer, what are you talking about?
Rev Bain’s remarks not scriptural
The Tribune published an article regarding Reverend Harry Bain’s remarks on the death penalty at Christ Church Cathedral last week. According to the article, Rev Bain is quoted as stating that he does not support capital punishment because it is contrary to the New Testament.
Three juveniles accused of stabbing 13-year-old for not joining gang in GB
THREE juveniles were charged in the Magistrate’s Court in Grand Bahama on Thursday for allegedly stabbing a 13-year-old boy.
Man charged with murder of Lashawn Higgs
A MAN was yesterday charged with the murder of Lashawn Higgs after a fight outside a bar on January 12 on Carmichael Road yesterday and sent to prison until his trial starts.
Young mother sentenced to one year of prison for abandoning her two sons
A 23-year-old mother appeared unfazed as she was sentenced to one year in prison yesterday for child abandonment.
Man sent to prison after pleading guilty to possession of an unlicenced firearm
A 20-year-old man had a tearful embrace with his mother before he was sent to prison for 18 months after admitting to a gun charge yesterday.
Thursday, January 18
STATESIDE: Pennsylvania key to Biden’s election bid
GRAY, ominous clouds hung low over the city’s hills and valleys, more than a hint of cold rain lingering in the still air. Trees stood bare and leafless against the bleak sky. Scranton was ready for the winter to come.
FRONT PORCH: Comprehensive intervention needed to deal with murders
AT the beginning of 2024, after a terrible spate of murder and bloodshed, we are once again playing out our near perfected and predictable response to violent crime.
BDOCS 2022 annual report tabled in House
THE Bahamas Department of Correctional Services’ Internal Affairs Unit investigated 56 reports of alleged misconduct involving prison officers in 2022, with disciplinary action happening in nearly 80 per cent of the matters reported.
EDITORIAL: Are we doing enough to reduce crime?
IN what is surely the deadliest start to any year, another two murders yesterday brought the total – at the time of writing – to 14 murders for the year. All in just 17 days.
Electoral justice and access to courts under review after OAS report highlights incident
ACCESS to the courts is under review after a judicial matter concerning the 2021 general election was unable to be heard ahead of the polls.
‘No reason to panic yet’ on 91% deficit
THE Government’s top finance official yesterday assured he has “no reason to panic yet” over the early 2023-2024 fiscal deficit as VAT revenues for December exceeded the prior year by 16-17 percent.
Gov’ts GBPA arbitration ‘no confidence inspirer’
FREEPORT’S governing authority yesterday warned that the Government’s latest bid to collect on allegedly outstanding expenses does “not inspire confidence” in the city and its $1.5bn investment “pipeline”.
PharmaChem client pulled plug on overrun, output woe
PHARMACHEM Technologies’ sole customer yesterday confirmed to Tribune Business that it pulled the plug on the Bahamian drug maker due to cost overruns and its failure to meet production timelines.
FTX Bahamas wind-up ‘halted’ if no Ray deal
FTX’s Bahamas wind- up “would be halted” without a deal with their US adversary, its liquidators have revealed, as they seek an extension to the legally-mandated 90-day deadline to hold a first creditor meeting.
‘Only two sought help’ after shanty town tear down
AS structures continued to be demolished in the All Saints Way shanty town yesterday, Social Services Minister Myles Laroda said only two women visited his ministry seeking help.
Glover-Rolle assures workers will not be disenfranchised by NIB rise
LABOUR and Public Services Minister Pia Glover-Rolle said her ministry would ensure workers are not disenfranchised when National Insurance Board contributions increase later this year.
Witnesses recount shark attack as Deputy PM says govt looking at regulations
TWO Americans who witnessed a shark attack at Atlantis on Monday said their experience was peaceful but turned dark when the ten-year-old victim was attacked.
THREE MURDERS IN LESS THAN 24 HOURS: Father of one on bail for murder among those killed, Chief Supt makes appeal – ‘tomorrow it could be one of your own’
A FATHER of one on bail for murder was one of three men killed in separate incidents less than 24 hours apart, pushing the murder tally for the year to 14.
Man fined over failing to pay outstanding rifle licence fees
A MAN was fined $2,000 yesterday after admitting to failing to pay outstanding rifle licence fees.
AJ Storr potential candidate for the Lute Olson national player of the year award
IT is no secret that sophomore AJ Storr has been lighting it up on the court for the University of Wisconsin Badgers in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Kaiwan on road to the Paris Olympics
Triple jumper Kaiwan Culmer took a brave leap of faith in October of last year when he made the decision to resign from his site supervisor position at Arawak Homes Ltd to pursue his main goal of trying to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
NPBA brings back triple header nights
THE 2023-24 New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) regular season returned to action with a triple header last weekend.
Abaco man accused of raping a woman in Marsh Harbour last year remanded
A 29-year-old man was imprisoned yesterday after he allegedly raped a 27-year-old woman in Abaco last March.
Law firm unveils four promotions
A BAHAMIAN law firm has promoted two attorneys to senior associates while confirming another duo as associates after they completed their pupillage.
Gov’t to protect casual worker on NIB rate rise
A CABINET minister yesterday said the Government is seeking to prevent casual and part- time workers from being “disenfranchised” through the upcoming National Insurance Board (NIB) rate increase.
FTX’s GoldWynn condos to be ‘absorbed at market value’
THE eight GoldWynn condo units newly-acquired by FTX’s Bahamian liquidators will be “readily absorbed by the market” when put up for sale, the project’s developer predicted yesterday.
Security firms hope for spike in January
SECURITY firms yesterday said they are hoping for a spike in business during the typically-slower January due to the skyrocketing murder rate and increased fear of crime.
Bahamians told no visa is needed for UK travel
THE British High Com- mission yesterday advised that Bahamians do not have to fill out Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) to enter the UK contrary to what a widely-circulated video is claiming.
Man accused of stealing car to be evaluated at Sandilands
A MAN was remanded to Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre for psychological evaluation yesterday after he allegedly stole a car last Sunday in New Providence.
Inflation hits lowest annual increase since early 2021
INFLATION continued to slowly moderate in October 2023 with the trailing 12-month increase of 2 percent at its lowest level for more than two-and-a-half years.
The silence of the lambs
Almost all Bahamians appear to be in a state of daze and are walking around like chickens, with all due respect to them, with no heads over the ever presence of crime and the fear of crime. No one seems to have a viable solution and even fewer have questioned the root causes of the same. It is almost akin to a person having an illness, see the symptoms, but cannot quite seem to figure out the antidote.
Without stronger gun sentences, we are wasting our time
While the Prime Minister is to be commended for announcing (and hopefully soon enacting) stronger laws and policies to counter the entrenched gang culture that is menacing our society, I fear that government’s efforts will come to little if they do not address the one matter that is at the heart of it all: the extremely light sentences that are handed down by Bahamian courts for the possession of illegal firearms.
Man accused of ambushing and murdering another man in Montell Heights last week
A 44-year-old man is behind bars after he allegedly ambushed and gunned down a 28-year-old man in his car in the Montell Heights area last week.
Wednesday, January 17
ALICIA WALLACE: Crime issue requires long-term plan, there are no quick fixes
Crime seems to confound the people of this country. It happens, and often. When crime is reported, people shake their heads, grumble, and start blaming.
Students displaced after fire damages four classrooms at SC McPherson
OVER 100 students and several teachers have been displaced at the SC McPherson Junior High School after a fire ripped through four classrooms last week.
Two men shot dead in separate incidents
Police are investigating after two men were shot dead in separate incidents on Wednesday.
University of The Bahamas undergoing audit as they seek accreditation by Fall
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas acting President Janyne Hodder said the institution is undergoing an audit as it seeks accreditation.
Fishermen ready to protest boat registration fee hikes
A senior fishermen yesterday asserted he has "no intention of paying" a more than eleven-fold increase in boat registration fees with the industry said to be ready to protest in Rawson Square over the hikes.
FTX liquidators prevent $8m GoldWynn 'forfeit'
FTX's Bahamian liquidators prevented a near-$8m loss by completing the acquisition of eight condo units in the GoldWynn development at Goodman's Bay, it has been revealed.
Tourism chief ‘doesn’t see’ US crime travel advisory
The Bahamas is not presently in danger of suffering a US travel advisory over the recent murder spike, a senior hotelier asserted yesterday, adding that it was not yet "a major concern for tourism.
Commission 'content' to hand over $426m FTX digital assets
The Securities Commission plans to seek Supreme Court approval to transfer some $426m worth of digital assets it is safeguarding into the care of the liquidators for FTX's Bahamian subsidiary.
University of the Bahamas announces upcoming conservation conclave
THE University of The Bahamas announced the launch of an environmental conference-style conservation conclave in partnership with the GEF Small Grants Programme and Disney Conservation Fund yesterday.
13-year-old boy stabbed after refusing to join gang
A 13-year-old boy is in critical condition after he was reportedly stabbed for refusing to join a gang in Grand Bahama yesterday.
Man dies after shooting in Abaco
Police are investigating a shooting in Dundas Town, Abaco on Tuesday night that claimed the life of a 38-year-old man.
Tourism chief calls shark bite ‘unfortunate’, Atlantis silent
ATLANTIS representatives did not respond to questions before press time yesterday after a ten-year-old American boy was bitten by a shark at the resort.
FTX Bahamas: ‘Best deal to avoid asset extinction’
FTX’s Bahamian liquidators are asserting the settlement with their US adversary “represents the best deal” possible given that lengthy legal battles would slash creditor recoveries “possibly to extinction”.
Abaco man’s death was by Fentanyl, say Police
A FENTANYL overdose killed a 23-year-old Abaco man in Grand Bahama earlier this year, the latest known death from the drug in The Bahamas.
Govt releases crime plan, FNM dismisses it as a ‘glossy brochure’
THE Davis administration said it would increase pay and benefits to legal officers to attract and retain top talent and hire more prosecutors to manage the demands of the justice system –– two of many steps it hopes will help reduce crime after 2024 began with eleven murders in two weeks.
FAMILY IS LEFT TO SLEEP ON GROUND: Mom and six kids left homeless as demolitions resume
ROSELYN and her six children slept outside on the ground on Monday after their home was demolished in the unregulated All Saints Way community.
Bohan Adderley signs with New York Mets
Bohan Adderley, International Elite (I-Elite) Sports Academy Class of 2024 prospect, had reality set in last night when he became one of 20 international prospects to officially sign with the New York Mets.
Call for Elisha Obed to be remembered
WITH the Ministry of Education putting a little more focus on Bahamian history being taught in the high school curriculum, Wellington Miller is calling for a renewed sensitisation of the students to the achievements of so many great sporting icons, including former world boxing champion Oswald ‘Elisha Obed’ Ferguson.
Call for Elisha Obed to be remembered
WITH the Ministry of Education putting a little more focus on Bahamian history being taught in the high school curriculum, Wellington Miller is calling for a renewed sensitisation of the students to the achievements of so many great sporting icons, including former world boxing champion Oswald ‘Elisha Obed’ Ferguson.
Running in Love 2 on track for Feb. 10
Valentine’s Day is less than a month away and so is the second edition of the “Running in Love” Fun, Run, Walk, Push and Roll extravaganza.
Former outstanding volleyball player Patrick Smith ‘loved his family’
THE volleyball fraternity lost one of its former outstanding players, who switched from bumping, spiking and blocking the ball to devoting his time and energy to proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ as an associate pastor.
Not a good way to start what we hoped would be a peaceful year
On Thursday, January fourth, The Guardian headline read… two more shot dead. Four murders in three days.
Unnecessary and avoidable danger to patients at PMH
I WAS recently an in-patient at PMH. I quickly observed that young doctors, I believe interns, were on uninterrupted duty, which they refer to as being "on call", for 32-36 hours at a time without respite or going home. One could easily tell after 15-20 hours that they were absolutely exhausted and essentially out on their feet.
Eleuthera man charged with possession of eight pounds of hemp and gun
A MAN was granted bail after he was allegedly found with a loaded firearm and eight pounds of marijuana in Eleuthera last weekend.
Woman accused of insurance fraud scheme granted bail
A WOMAN was granted bail yesterday after she was allegedly involved in an insurance fraud scheme where she attempted to steal over $9,000 in the last two months.
Man on bail for murder put on probation after curfew breach
A man on bail for attempted murder was placed on probation after admitting to breaching his curfew last Sunday.
Teen granted $5,000 bail after stealing from school
A 16-year-old boy was granted $5,000 bail after he was accused of breaking into a primary school over the Christmas break and stealing $800 in school property.
Chamber chief unaware of Freeport investor deterrent
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president says he is unaware of investors being deterred from coming to Freeport despite the “rather cumbersome” approvals process.
Accounting urged over road repair cancellation
A South Andros businessman yesterday called for an accounting to determine how much taxpayer money has been wasted through the cancellation of a multi-million dollar road repair contract.
Social spending better than price controls on living cost
The Government’s former top financial official yesterday argued that increased social spending would better help Bahamians struggling with the cost of living crisis than the imposition of price controls.
GB Chamber chief optimistic PharmaChem will ‘rise again’
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said he is optimistic that PharmaChem Technologies’ plant will “rise again” as the company now begins its winding-up
Tuesday, January 16
Inspired by Dr King
Daunte Butler edged out the competition to take home the top prize at the 2nd Annual MLK High School Oratorical Competition.
QC students on track
Queen’s College held its annual sports day last week, allowing students to display their athletic skills while being cheered on by their parents, teachers and peers.
Student Spotlight
Twins Charity and Chasity Dorsett are sixth grade students at Gerald Cash Primary School.
Room to read
Students at Ridgeland Primary School received a reading room at the school courtesy of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Eta Psi Omega Chapter.
FACE TO FACE: Betty Morley – teaching and reaching the hearts of future generations
BEATRICE Elizabeth Morley, better known as Betty, has been teaching for most of her life. She has poured her heart into instilling education, good morals and a sense of self worth in thousands of children over decades, in The Bahamas, the USA, and in Africa.
GBPA says further safety measures are coming as commuters express concerns
GRAND Bahama Port Authority has responded to concerns raised about a pipeline installed at a causeway traversed daily by hundreds of commuters.
Pia Glover-Rolle certifies BPSU election overturning registrar’s decision not to
PUBLIC Services Minister Pia Glover-Rolle has certified the September results of a Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) election, overturning the decision of the registrar of trade unions, who declined to certify the results because of alleged irregularities in the voting process.
FNM leader concerned over impact of ‘intrusive policing’ on human rights
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said he is concerned that civil liberties and human rights will be affected by the “intrusive policing” Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said will come in response to the rising murder rate.
Businesses urge: Put crime ‘on the run’ as security costs triple
Businesses yesterday urged The Bahamas to put criminals “on the run” as they revealed security-related costs have “tripled” over the past year to combat the threat posed to staff and patrons.
Loss-making Pizza Hut’s close: 90% of jobs saved
Almost 90 percent of impacted staff have retained jobs despite the loss-making Pizza Hut franchise’s decision to shut its three New Providence locations with effect from Sunday.
Gov’ts $131m deficit goal ‘already out the window’
The Government’s projected $131m deficit for the current fiscal year is “already out the window” given the performance for the first four months, a financial analyst asserted yesterday.
‘We must know what the heck is happening over GB airport’
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president says “it’s absolutely critical we know what the heck is happening” with the airport redevelopment if Freeport is to position itself as a “city on the move”.
Bran: Cost of living the ‘biggest crime’
The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) former leader yesterday suggested that “the biggest crime in this country” is the cost of living crisis that is continually squeezing middle class and lower income Bahamians.
Shanty town demolition continues at All Saints Way
ABOUT 30 structures were demolished in the All Saints Way shanty town yesterday after the Ministry of Works resumed activities in the unregulated community two months after beginning exercises there.
Pizza Hut closes operations, seven out of work
LABOUR Director Howard Thompson said Pizza Hut is shutting down its New Providence branches because of the losses the franchise has experienced over the past six years.
American boy bitten by shark at resort
A TEN-year-old boy from Maryland, United States, was reportedly bitten by a shark shortly before 4pm yesterday, according to police.
Pintard says Commissioner of Police not telling truth on investigation of alleged Johnson attack
OPPOSITION Leader Michael Pintard said he believes Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander did not tell the truth about the status of the investigation into an alleged attack against Free National Movement vice chairman Richard Johnson.
UNITED IN PRAYER...but Christian leaders divided on death penalty
GREAT Commission Ministries president Bishop Walter Hanchell said yesterday that opposing the death penalty is against the will of God while retired Mount Tabor Senior Pastor Bishop Neil Ellis said if the government won’t enforce death penalty laws it should remove them from the books.
Boxer Rashield Williams prepares for title fight
IT has taken about five years, but Rashield Williams is now looking at getting his major breakthrough in the professional boxing ranks with a title shot.
Golfer Devaughn Robinson eliminated
AFTER two rounds of play in the Korn Ferry Tour in the Bahamas Great Exuma Classic at the Sandals Emerald Bay Resorts in Exuma, Bahamian exempt professional golfer Devaughn Robinson was eliminated from the final two days of competition.
Baker, Wilson and Darville sign with Boston Red Sox
Three Bahamian teenagers signed a contract with the Boston Red Sox yesterday, bringing them one step closer to furthering their baseball careers.
Thoughts on bail and crime
The Commissioner of Police has once again complained that the courts must take a look at the issue of the granting of bail to persons who are accused of committing serious crimes.
Administer justice now
What I try to do nightly is to find the time to watch the Bahamas’ evening news, because you know, just so much going on in the country, rather on New Providence Island.
Man on bail accused of gun threats against two men
A BUSINESSMAN was granted bail after he allegedly threatened two men with a gun at a bar on Blue Hill Road last weekend.
Man charged with murder of grandmother last week
A MAN is behind bars after allegedly shooting and killing a 57-year-old grandmother and injuring her four-year-old grandson as they were driving in Lily of the Valley last week.
Man on bail for murder fined for failing to charge monitor
A MAN on bail accused of murdering ten-year-old Lorencia Walkes in 2020 was sent to prison yesterday after being accused of again failing to charge his monitoring device.
Woman admits stealing $1,000 while employed at Starbucks
A WOMAN was ordered to do 200 hours of community service after admitting to stealing over $1,000 from Starbucks in Marina Village while she was working there last month.
NPBA: Heatwaves, Rockets, Shockers in the win column
THE New Providence Basketball Association continued its regular season action over the weekend at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium with a series of games played.
Silent Partner and crew find time to celebrate
AFTER winning the Best-of-the-Best regatta title in December, it was time for the Silent Partner, formerly the Red Stripe, to celebrate over the weekend in Black Point, Exuma.
Abaco Chamber chief’s ‘burning’ landfill worries
The Abaco Chamber of Commerce president yesterday voiced concern over potential environmental damage from a landfill said to be “burning out of control”.
GB entrepreneur to crowd fund entertainment centre
A Grand Bahama entrepreneur will formally announce his bid to crowd-fund the development of an entertainment centre on February 3.
Opposition chief urges 'one stop' approvals in Freeport
The Opposition's Leader yesterday called for a 'one-stop' approval process for all potential investors in Freeport as a means to revive the city's fragile economy.
Monday, January 15
WORLD VIEW: Action on criminal gangs and firearms is urgent
ECUADOR, once celebrated for its tranquillity, now finds itself at the epicentre of a distressing surge in gang violence, its streets marred by the ominous shadow of armed groups fuelled by the trafficking of illicit drugs.
INSIGHT: Davis distorting history – FNM contributed to country’s growth
THE address delivered by Prime Minister Philip Davis to the Lyford Cay Club on November 25, 2023, was disgraceful and filled with historical distortions. It is unsurprising that it was difficult for the media to obtain a copy of the speech from the Davis administration.
INSIGHT: Time for blame has passed, action needed
PEOPLE are often quick to take credit, but quicker still to shift blame elsewhere. Take our recent crime spike, for example.
EDITORIAL: Crime is now govt’s top priority
FROM the off, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis made it clear he had not expected to be giving a national address on crime last night.
Bahamian woman from Exuma travels to Antartica
FINA Johnson’s love of travelling, adventure and animals has helped her become one of the 170,000 people a year to visit the world’s most isolated continent: Antarctica.
National hotline to report children on the streets during school hours launched
THE Ministry of Education launched its national school attendance hotline on Friday and called on the public to report any child on the streets during school hours.
Hanna Martin says she won’t hop on the bandwagon for capital punishment
EDUCATION Minister Glenys Hanna Martin said she won’t join the bandwagon for reinstating capital punishment because the return of the penalty is unrealistic.
Governor General marks first official visit to Grand Bahama
GOVERNOR General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt travelled throughout Grand Bahama and met Bahamians from all walks of life during her first official visit last week.
$600m Shipyard project ‘under threat’ over airlift
Grand Bahama Shipyard’s $600m dry dock investment and related projects “are already under threat” due to the island’s airlift shortage, its chief executive has warned.
Electric car dealer targets mid-year start on new HQ
A Bahamian electric vehicle dealer yesterday revealed it beat 2023 targets via a “one-third” sales increase as it bids to start construction on its new “multi-million” headquarters by around mid-year.
Opposition: ‘Adjust’ Budget as 91% of deficit room used
The Opposition’s finance spokesman last night warned the Government “must adjust” its Budget targets and figures despite year-over-year improvements in its October revenues and deficit.
‘Raise the bar’ call on permanent residency
A Bahamian realtor has renewed his call to raise the threshold above which foreign home buyers can qualify for permanent residency to $1m as part of a strategy to “take the strain” off raising taxes.
Police Commissioner: Suspect questioned over FNM vice chairman argument
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said a suspect was in custody concerning an argument involving Free National Movement vice chairman Richard Johnson.
Ex-DRA chief quizzed as part of police probe
A TEAM of police officers travelled to Grand Bahama on Thursday to interview former Disaster Reconstruction Authority head Katherine Smith.
‘Can’t sleep or eat since mom and son were shot’
THE mother of the two-year-old who was shot on Thursday said she can’t sleep, can’t eat and keeps replaying the moments when a man emerged from bushes, killed her mother and put her son in critical condition.
CRACKDOWN: More intrusive policing coming, anti-gang laws are promised, more CCTV and increased patrols
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said more intrusive policing is coming in response to the rising murder rate.
A new dawn
ActivTrades
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the US has approved exchange-traded funds (ETFs) investing in the digital currency, Bitcoin, after a long period of hesitation. In the struggle with Bitcoin proponents, including large banks and asset managers, the SEC admitted defeat and ultimately allowed Bitcoin ETFs.
NIB hike will be detrimental
As we watch the Laffer curve effect make its way into our economic system, there is one economic behaviour shared amongst politician’s past, present and aspiring is this PUBLIC CHOICE THEORY (how elected officials, bureaucrats and other government agents can be influenced by their own perceived self-interest when making decisions in their government portfolios).
BLTA: Four champions crowned
FOUR champions got a perfect start to their year at the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s (BLTA) under-14 and under-16 New Year’s tournament hosted at the National Tennis Centre (NTC) over the weekend. Briana Houlgrave and Breann Ferguson earned bragging rights for the U14 and U16 divisions respectively in girls’ singles action.
Kai Jones to play for Bahamas in first window of AmeriCup qualifiers
THE Bahamas senior men’s national basketball team will have a familiar face join the fold for the first window of their FIBA (International Basketball Federation) AmeriCup 2025 quest.
VJ Edgecombe commits to Baylor University
THE Bears Nation will have to make room for Bimini native Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe who committed to Baylor University last night.
Marathon Bahamas returns
As Marathon Bahamas returned to the local calendar after a three-year hiatus, Yusheng Ni, Yunelis Lightbourn, Kemar Leslie, Tracey Eckert, Lisa Bostwick-Dean and Matthew McGuire all inked their names in the 14th edition of the event yesterday.
Athletes compete overseas
ELITE professional hurdler Devynne Charlton, pole vaulter Brenden Vanderpool and quarter-miler Lacarthea Cooper posted victories in their respective events to lead a host of Bahamian athletes over the weekend in various meets around the United States of America.
Don’t blame Junkanoo for empty pews
I have read remarks in the media about President of the Bahamas National Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention, Rev Philip McPhee – concerning Junkanoo and its impact on watch night church services in the capital.
Abaco jam maker laments lack of Out Island support
An Abaco jam and preservative maker needs $80,000 for a new machine to scale-up production and is lamenting the lack of support for Family Island businesses.
Commerce is hit by BPL ‘generator trip’
Many New Providence businesses were hit by a Friday power outage lasting several hours after Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) suffered “a generator trip” at both the island’s power stations.
Carnival unveils its public affairs chief
Carnival Corporation has hired the former chief operations officer at Grand Bahama’s water supplier to help strengthen local ties prior to its new $500m cruise port opening.
Bahamas $500m loan secures over half external finance need
The Bahamas has secured more than half its foreign currency financing needs for the current fiscal year by obtaining a $500m loan partially guaranteed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Real estate crowd-funder urges it get a ‘fair shake’
A crowdfunding-based real estate business is urging that it be given a “fair shake” as it enters its fourth year of seeking approvals from Bahamian financial services regulators.
Sunday, January 14
Police investigate sexual assault
Police have launched an investigation into a sexual assault on Saturday at 9am, involving a 26-year-old woman.
Saturday, January 13
Man dies in car crash in Eleuthera
Police on Eleuthera are investigating after a man died in a traffic accident on Friday night.
Man questioned over fatal stabbing off Carmichael Road
Police are questioning a 30-year-old man in connection with the fatal stabbing of a man on Friday night.
Friday, January 12
Munroe: Public have responsibility to make criminals known to police
Speaking about the recent spike in violent crime in the country, National Security Minister Wayne Munroe said on Friday that members of the public have a personal responsibility to make criminals known to police.
US Embassy presents four vessels to Royal Bahamas Police Force
FOUR vessels have been presented to the Royal Bahamas Police Force by the US Embassy to help to protect The Bahamas, with the boats to be assigned to New Providence, Abaco, Bimini and Grand Bahama.
Third Justice to be assigned to Supreme Court in Freeport
Chief Justice Sir Ian Winder will permanently assign a third Justice to the Supreme Court in Freeport in another three months to reduce the growing backlog of criminal matters.
Mother of murdered teen charged with harbouring criminal
The mother of Davinique Gray, the 16-year-old who was killed in a shooting incident last weekend, appeared emotionless before the court on Friday as she was charged with harbouring a man wanted by police.
Man accused of attempting to kill three people in a car
A 22-year-old man was sent to prison on Friday accused of attempting to kill three people in a car earlier this month.
Bail for man accused of shop breaking
A MAN was granted $5,000 bail after he was accused of breaking into the same shop twice in Cat Island earlier this month
Man charged with unlawful sexual intercourse
A 20-year-old is behind bars after he allegedly sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl twice in the last four months.
Clubs & Societies January 12th, 2024
On Thursday, December 21, 2023, president Dominique Gaitor and the Kiwanis Club of Over-The-Hill under our theme “Service with Passion & Strength” made our annual visit to the Good Samaritan Home for the Aged, Yellow Elder Gardens.
Tourist dies after Eleuthera car crash
A 49-year-old tourist succumbed to his injuries at a clinic in Eleuthera after traffic accident that required authorities to use the Jaws of Life.
ERIC WIBERG: Shipwrecks of The Bahamas – Highbourne Cay Shipwreck, Exumas, 1513 Iberian, Diego Miruelo, Ponce de Leon
THE night of Tuesday, September 23, 1513, was another boisterous one for a fleet of four heavily armed Spanish vessels returning from a mission to find Florida.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Just how friendly are the skies of The Bahamas?
THEY are the lifeline to the Family Islands – those smaller planes that operate as scheduled charters, criss-crossing the skies day after day. Western Air, Pineapple Air, Southern Air, Titan, Flamingo, LeAir and more, as essential to local economies from Bimini in the north to Ragged and Crooked in the south, as air and water are to life itself.
EDITORIAL: What is the plan to tackle crime?
ANOTHER day, another murder. And then prayers, for a little boy who was doing nothing wrong in the world but who was shot in the head by a coward of a man who opened fire on three women and a child.
Four patients with COVID-19 in intensive care in Grand Bahama
FOUR Grand Bahama residents with COVID-19 require intensive care, three of them are under intubation.
Bar president says a Judicial Complaints Committee to be formed for accountability
BAR Association president Khalil Parker said Chief Justice Ian Winder has collaborated with the Bar Council to form a committee to draft a Judicial Complaints Procedure.
Pinder says lawyers practice of adjournments to delay court cases for clients ‘unacceptable’
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder said some defence lawyers use adjournments as a litigation strategy for their clients, an “unacceptable” practice contributing to trial delays.
Auto dealers optimistic 2023's 40% surge keeps momentum
A Bahamian new auto dealer yesterday voiced optimism that price stability and better availability will further boost sales in 2024 following a 40 percent year-over-year surge for the first 11 months last year.
Drug lure: 50% of school leavers lacking diploma
"A significant" number of young Bahamians are being lured into the drug trade as 50 percent of high school leavers graduate without even a diploma, a policy document is asserting.
Dorian 'hangover' cuts outlook for the Summit
A Bahamian insurer yesterday voiced optimism it will soon break free of its "Hurricane Dorian hangover" and escape any potential downgrade by the industry's main creditworthiness assessor.
'Whistleblower' official should go before PAC
A top civil servant's attorney yesterday argued that what his client has allegedly suffered must "in no circumstance be allowed to happen" to other public officials who seek to expose purported "wrongdoing".
Fourteen Clubs Golf Academy hosts first event of 2024
While many were enjoying the festivities on Majority Rule Day, juniors along with adults participated at the third Front 9 Golf Tournament Series drive, chip and putt event at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s Practice Facility.
$60k worth of suspected marijuana seized in GB drug bust
Police in Grand Bahama arrested a 25-year-old man after he was found on a vessel containing ammunition and nearly 40 pounds of suspected marijuana yesterday.
Crowdfunded real estate business still waiting one year later for Securities Commission approvals
AKERAGE Ltd, a crowdfunding business promising to revolutionize how people invest in real estate, is still awaiting relevant approvals from the Securities Commission of The Bahamas a year after announcing provisional approval from the regulator.
LN Coakley High School students on half days due to water shortage issues
SOME 300 LN Coakley Senior High students in Exuma are attending school half-day because of water shortage issues, according to acting Director of Education Dominique Russell.
Chisholm Jr and Yankees in 0-2 hole
Bahamian Major League Baseball (MLB) pro Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr and the New York Yankees are in a tough spot after falling into an 0-2 hole in weekend action.
‘I do not support capital punishment’
ONE day after former Cabinet minister Leslie Miller said legislators “lack the guts” to ensure capital punishment is executed, a prominent pastor took a firm position against the death penalty during a sermon as lawyers, judges, and government officials gathered at Christ Church Cathedral to mark the opening of the legal year.
Three brothers remembered at emotion filled funeral
THE Christie brothers — Philip McCarron Christie, 24, Philip D’Caprio Christie, 23, and D’Angelo Christie, 20 — were laid to rest in an emotional funeral service at New Mount Pisgah Trinity Baptist Church in North Andros on Saturday after dying on September 2 in a car accident on Sir Milo Butler Highway.
Bail defended as officials mark opening of the legal year
THE contentious bail issue took centre stage when lawyers, the attorney general, judiciary members and top police officials marked the opening of the legal year against the backdrop of a soaring murder rate yesterday.
MURDER RATE UP 150 PERCENT COMPARED TO LAST YEAR: Grandmother is latest victim, her grandson in critical condition after shooting
THE murder rate has skyrocketed 150 per cent compared to last year as the country grapples with one of its deadliest ever starts to a year.
Timberwolves at the double
IN two contrasting ends of the spectrum, the Anatol Rodgers Timberwolves senior girls and boys pulled off a double dose of victory over the Dame Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins in the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association’s basketball action on Thursday at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.
Reloaded Baseball in high gear for 2024
Reloaded Baseball celebrated its first year in existence last year and after surpassing most of their goals they intend to knock it out the park with regards to development in 2024. Since day one, Reloaded Baseball has been committed to furthering the development of the youth within their programme while elevating their level of play to be on par with international standards.
Mother of teen girl killed when home was riddled with bullets was arrested
THE mother of the teen girl who was gunned down in her home last weekend is in police custody and is expected to be charged with a crime.
Search for solutions on crime
The brand-new year 2024 rolled in, fireworks barely subsided, and the country is seething with a high volume of senseless murders. There has been one murder a day. One murder is one too many.
No one is safe unless everyone is
No one is safe, unless everyone is safe. Ten lives have been lost to senseless bloodshed during the first 11 days of 2024, leaving families mourning for their loved ones. The harsh reality is that it could easily have been any one of us left breathless – a casualty of war, as bullets do not have GPS and these incidents are taking place in public spaces, at times when everyday citizens are out and about.
Gather together
Gather Together Gather Around Kemp Road
Two men charged for the murder of Gerrard Coakley remanded
TWO men were remanded yesterday after they allegedly chased and gunned down a 31-year-old man in his South Beach home while he was on release for attempted murder last week.
IAN FERGUSON: Strengthening business resolve in the New Year
The year 2023 is now officially history. We have walked into a brand new year - for some, a new fiscal year - where trying to find a proper footing and bearings is not the best position to be in. Good track and field athletes know their success often depends on how they start the race.
Palm Cay targets 2030 for construction finish
A south-eastern New Providence development is targeting 2030 for its full build-out with more stages to come after the current phase four.
Bar chief says 'world class' justice requires investment
Delivering "world class" justice "requires meaningful financial investment and not empty rhetoric", the Bar Association's president urged yesterday, as he called for the judiciary's budget to be increased.
'Novel' human rights argument to counter OECD blacklistings
The Government was yesterday said to be developing a "novel" legal argument for presentation before the United Nations (UN) that The Bahamas' "human rights" are being breached by blacklisting tactics.
Bowe: Govt should pay off debt and work at surplus
A TOP financial expert has said the government should aim to pay off its debt and operate at a surplus - for the first time since Independence.
'Bahamas needs to implement a National Development Plan'
Gowon Bowe, CEO of Fidelity Bank Bahamas, has renewed his call for the government to implement a National Development Plan to direct and benchmark improvements on key economic and social metrics.
Davis says policies will boost home ownership
Prime Minister Philip "Brave" Davis said his administration is committed to ensuring affordable and accessible home ownership for Bahamians as he toured the construction site of Renaissance at Carmichael yesterday.
National Tripartite Council sets out three-year agenda
THE National Tripartite Council (NTC) has reconvened with an ambitious three-year agenda, focusing on living wages, decent work conditions, and improved worker benefits.
Thursday, January 11
SHOOTING INCIDENT: Man being questioned after woman killed, toddler in critical condition
Police are questioning a 27-year-old man of Lily of the Valley Corner in connection with a shooting incident on Thursday that has left a 56-year-old woman dead and her two-year-old grandson in critical condition in hospital.
EDITORIAL: Evidence there to check the facts
EVIDENCE is a powerful thing.
STATESIDE: Harvard president caught in the political crossfire
WHEN the president of Harvard University stepped down last week under severe pressure from alumni, donors and Republican congressmen and women, Elise Stefanik literally rubbed her hands in glee.
FRONT PORCH: Museums overlooked - but important to tell our story
APARTHEID, the system of institutionalised racism and minoritarian rule in South Africa, formally existed from 1948 to the early 1990s. It was steeped in a history of slavery, colonialism, and the warring for political and economic control between competing groups and powers.
Davis: PharmaChem loss a blow to GB – but we tried to intervene
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the government was unsuccessful in intervening to prevent the closure of PharmaChem Technologies and the loss of more than 100 employees, which he called a “blow” to Grand Bahama’s economy.
154 prison officers promoted – but others wait for their turn
ONE hundred and fifty-four prison officers were promoted this week, but the head of the association representing them said he will not be satisfied until others awaiting promotion are advanced.
$200m capital markets poised for ‘very big year’
A Bahamas-based investment banker says 2024 is poised to “be a very big year” for the capital markets with companies seeking to raise “at least a couple hundred million” to finance their growth.
$250m Six Senses project eyes summer building start
The developer behind Grand Bahama’s $260m Six Senses resort project yesterday voiced optimism that construction will start this summer depending on when it receives its final approvals.
PharmaChem close sparks GB population shrink fears
The Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) is “deeply saddened” by PharmaChem Technologies imminent closure amid fears it will further depopulate an already-shrinking Freeport.
World Bank cuts growth projection for Bahamas
The World Bank has gone in the opposite direction to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by trimming its 2024 economic growth forecast for The Bahamas by a further 20 basis points to 1.8 percent.
Two women in hospital after being shot in car
Two women aged 23 and 24-years-old are in hospital after a shooting incident off Wulff Road early on Thursday.
Man dies after shooting in Montell Heights
A 28-year-old man is dead after a shooting incident in Montell Heights on Wednesday night.
Leading civil servant claims FOIA whistleblower breach
A top civil servant is alleging the Government violated the Freedom of Information Act’s ‘whistleblower’ protections by “intimidating” and sidelining her after she sought to highlight purported “wrongdoing”.
‘No mask mandate’ as COVID cases rise
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said there is no need to reintroduce COVID-19 prevention mandates such as wearing masks after an uptick in cases of the disease, though people are recommended to wear masks. He said businesses could enforce a mask mandate.
Davis tries to explain Mitchell comments – but recording doesn’t match
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis explained Fred Mitchell’s dismissive comments about the Freedom of Information Act yesterday in a way that does not reflect what the foreign affairs minister told reporters.
Miller: No guts for capital punishment
FORMER Cabinet Minister Leslie Miller said legislators lack “the guts” to ensure murderers experience capital punishment, which he considers a deterrent to violent crime.
IMMIGRATION ‘A RISK TO NATION’: Pastor warns of those who come to Bahamas illegally at Majority Rule service
AS top government officials looked on yesterday, Pastor TG Morrison railed against illegal immigration during a Majority Rule Day ceremony, claiming that “something cataclysmic is going to happen” if the issue is not addressed.
Adderley and Bain Jr to sign with Mets and Blue Jays
The International Elite Sports Academy 2024 signing class will feature Bohan Adderley and Javado “JT” Bain Jr who are both looking to take the next step on their baseball journeys. Adderley has committed to the New York Mets, while Bain will sign with the Toronto Blue Jays. The two I-Elite prospects will make their signings official with the respective teams next week Monday and Tuesday.
DR KENT BAZARD – The Role of Sports Psychology in Injury Rehabilitation: A Path to Recovery and Resilience
In the world of professional sports, injuries are an unfortunate and often inevitable part of an athlete’s journey. Whether it’s a torn ligament on the basketball court, a strained muscle during a game, or a debilitating stress fracture, these injuries can have profound physical and psychological implications. However, there’s an often-underestimated ally that plays a crucial role in the recovery process – sports psychology.
Nassau Netball club looking to expand membership
The Nassau Netball Club is looking to expand their membership in the upcoming months. Netball, a sport primarily played by women, can be considered a non-traditional sport in The Bahamas but the Nassau Netball Club is hoping to mount a resurgence not only in the sport but in various communities.
Bahamas Youth Flag football league has big plans for 2024
The new year is set to be a promising one for the Bahamas Youth Flag Football League (BYFFL) with lots of development initiatives on the horizon.
‘Exceptional beauty’: Tribute after death of former Miss Bahamas contestant
BIMINI native Anva Roberts has died, according to the Miss Bahamas Organisation, who noted that she was a former contestant.
Pride and progress for Abaco?
It doesn’t take a village; it takes a country.
Govt must not sit down with leaders of gangs
It has often been said that ‘Whom the gods would destroy they first make mad’.
Digital evolution drives retail’s transformation
In the fast-paced realm of business, the evolution of e-commerce has been nothing short of revolutionary.
Target data storage for Bahamas AI growth
A Bahamian software developer yesterday said data storage represents the first Artificial Intelligence (AI) related growth area that this nation can exploit for economic advantage.
FTX Bahamas properties must fetch ‘80% of value’
All sales of FTX’s 35 high-end Bahamas properties must fetch a price that is “equal to or greater than 80 percent” of their broker-appraised values, it has been revealed.
‘Writing was on the wall’ on PharmaChem close
A Grand Bahama businessman says he is “not surprised” that PharmaChem Technologies will cease operations tomorrow as the “writing was on the wall” from a few years prior.
Union chief: Pharmachem closure ‘staggers’ economy
A Grand Bahama industrial union head says PharmaChem Technologies’ shutdown tomorrow “staggers” an already weak economy and will have a major negative impact on the island.
Wednesday, January 10
Tourist dies after snorkelling
A TOURIST died on Wednesday after getting into difficulty while snorkelling during a visit to The Bahamas.
Activist Terneille Burrows calls for mother of murdered teen to be prosecuted
ACTIVIST Terneille Burrows is calling for authorities to prosecute the mother of the teen girl gunned down in her home for harbouring a criminal suspect, calling the act “egregious”.
Tuesday, January 9
Quality Care's Fun, Run, Walk and Health Fair to raise funds for Bahamas Feeding Network
Quality Care Pharmacy is hosting a Fun, Run, Walk and Health Fair on February 3 to raise funds for the Bahamas Feeding Network amid a 40 percent drop in donations.
Grand Bahama woman found safe after going missing at Miami International Airport
AFTER a harrowing two days for her family, 78-year-old Merlyn Cooper of Grand Bahama was found safe in Miami and has been reunited with her family.
Two charged with separate counts of murder
TWO MEN are behind bars after they were allegedly involved in two separate murders in New Providence in the last month.
Man jailed for breaching bail
A MAN was sentenced to one year in prison yesterday after he admitting to breaching his bail while on release for pending armed robbery charges.
Teen charged with causing harm
A 16-year-old male was granted bail after he was accused of injuring someone in a fight outside the mall last November.
18-year-old jailed for possession of unlicensed firearm, ammunition
AN 18-year-old was sentenced to two years in prison on Tuesday after admitting to owning a loaded gun found in a car Sea Breeze last week.
Man dies after being struck by two vehicles in North Andros
A man died after he was struck by two vehicles while crossing the street in North Andros on Monday, police said.
Police investigate alleged attempted suicide
Police have launched an investigation into an alleged attempted suicide in Grand Bahama this week.
TIM ROBERTS: Getting to the root to save the tree
A vast empty field lies in front of us all, regardless of our age. The potential we have no matter where we are in life is always at hand before us, and it is up to us to sow our best or our worst in that field.
FACE TO FACE: Nurse Bianca Edwards leads a call to action to support nurses
BEING a nurse requires skill, constant learning, patience, empathy and quick decision making. It’s not for the faint of heart, and nurse Biance Edwards wants to make sure that her colleagues in The Bahamas have the support they need to be their best.
Police and Christian Council speak with gang members but get only silence in return
GANG members refused to answer critical questions about violence in the country when Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander and Bahamas Christian Council leaders met them over the weekend.
Deadline looms for contest for Bahamian students
STUDENTS can compete for their share of over $10,000 in prizes and scholarships in the 2024 Bahamas Laws of Life Essay Competition.
Fair to be held for Canadian schools
REPRESENTATIVES from 13 top Canadian boarding schools will be holding a school fair on Thursday at the Sandyport Beach Resort from 5-9pm.
A scholarship to soar
STUDENTS HAVE received scholarships to become jet pilots through partnership with Qatar Aeronautical Academy and The Bahamas Aeronautical Academy.
Fernander ‘disappointed’ in chairman of Neighbourhood Watch Council’s comments
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said he is disappointed in Keno Wong, the chairman of the Bahamas National Neighbourhood Watch Council, who complained last week that the relationship between the council and the Royal Bahamas Police Force has deteriorated in the last year.
Changing track pays off for Erin
ERIN WHYLEY is on her second stint as a student of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI).
FNM chief: Ensure GB still perceived as 'fertile ground'
The Opposition's leader yesterday called on the Government to urgently dispel any notion that PharmaChem Technologies' "devastating closure" was caused by local ease of doing business impediments.
South Andros utilities branded 'a hot mess'
South Andros residents and business owners yesterday branded the area's utilities and physical infrastructure as a "hot mess" that is undermining commerce.
Pineapple revival 'not as easy as throwing $2.5m'
A Bahamian pineapple farmer yesterday warned that the Governments ambitions to revive this agricultural niche will "not be as simple as just throwing $2.5m at it".
SEC claiming 'intimidation' of Bahamian whistleblower
US regulators have accused the principal of a now-defunct Nassau broker/dealer of seeking to intimidate a Bahamian whistleblower and "threaten his livelihood".
UPDATED: Grand Bahama woman who went missing at Miami International Airport found alive and well
UPDATE: The Bahamas Consulate General Miami Office has confirmed that Merlyn Cooper, a 78-year-old Grand Bahama resident who went missing at the Miami International Airport Sunday evening, has been found alive and well.
Legal warning in beauty queen row
THE law firm representing the Miss Bahamas Universe Organization has issued a warning that publishing interviews with former Miss Bahamas Universe winners Chantel O’Brian and Melissa Ingraham could lead to prosecution for defamation.
Traffic death of Abaco teen leaves family inconsolable
THE tragic death of an Abaco teen has left relatives inconsolable in the days following the country’s first recorded traffic fatality of the year.
‘Another kick in the teeth’: GB to lose 100 PharmaChem jobs
The loss of more than 100 well-paid jobs through PharmaChem Technologies’ Friday shutdown was last night branded “another kick in the teeth” for Grand Bahama’s struggling economy.
Tributes paid to Davinique after deadly shooting
THE brutal shooting death of a 16-year-old RM Bailey Senior High School student led some of her peers to pledge themselves to Christ during a special assembly yesterday.
‘WE MUST CHANGE LAWS ON BAIL’: Commissioner repeats call for legal changes after schoolgirl’s murder
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said some people charged with serious crimes last year were released on bail “within two or three months”, adding: “Something is definitely wrong with that.”
Coach Yo still happy team is on course
DESPITE losing a big game to Louisiana State University Lady Tigers, Bahamian head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin said she’s still pleased with the way her Ole Miss Lady Rebels basketball team are playing this year.
Maycock-Dorsett and Pinder overall winners at Macedonia Baptist Church’s Family Fun Walk Race
EVE Maycock-Dorsett and Donald Pinder emerged as the overall female and male winners of the Macedonia Baptist Church’s annual Family Fun Walk Race.
Andros Chamber puts back investor conclave to March
The Andros Chamber of Commerce has pushed back its economic and investment conclave, which is designed to connect entrepreneurs with investors, from late January to mid-March 2024.
Cabbage Beach vendors will 'stand up' for access
A attorney for the Cabbage Beach Vendors Association yesterday pledged its members will "stand up and fight" if the Ocean Club's expansion impacts their access to Paradise Island's northern shore.
Rattlers fire to huge win
COACH Kevin “KJ” Johnson and his CI Gibson Rattlers senior girls and boys’ basketball teams were simply too much for the Government High Magicmen to handle as the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association’s 2023/24 season swung into high gear following the Christmas break.
Junkanoo integrity in question
Kindly allow me space in your valuable columns to express an opinion as to why I believe the integrity of junkanoo is compromised.
Concerned with Mount Tabor pulpit
As I approach my 70th birthday this week, a milestone I greet with both gratitude and reflection, I find myself compelled to write to your publication for only the fifth time in my life. My words today are born not out of joy, but out of a deep sense of disappointment and concern for a community that has been an integral part of my life for over two decades – the Mount Tabor Church.
Judge dismisses woman’s injury claim against Commonwealth Brewery Ltd
A SUPREME Court judge dismissed a lawsuit from a former Commonwealth Brewery Limited employee last week after the woman sued the company for injuries she allegedly received after falling over a box at work.
Teen sent to Simpson Penn after being charged with Christmas Day murder
A 15-year-old boy was sent to Simpson Penn yesterday after he allegedly fatally shot a 38-year-old man on Jerome Avenue on Christmas Day.
52-year-old man accused of molesting his four-year-old son remanded
A 52-year-old man was locked behind bars yesterday after he was accused of molesting his four-year-old son last October.
Man and woman allegedly found with a loaded gun granted $7,500 bail
A MAN and woman were granted bail yesterday after they were allegedly found with a loaded gun and a large quantity of ammunition at a residence in Nassau Village last week.
Man accused of fatal stabbing of father must receive medication for sickle cell anemia
A 26-YEAR-OLD American man suffering from sickle cell anaemia must receive medical attention in prison after he was remanded over the weekend for the year’s first murder.
Monday, January 8
WORLD VIEW: Smallness and separateness is not an effective strategy
AS we stand at the threshold of 2024, gazing upon the dawn of a new year with uncertainty, the time has come for a profound reflection on the trajectory of the 15 Caribbean nations constituting the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Teenage girl shot dead as gunmen open fire on home
SIXTEEN-year-old Davinique Gray was murdered on Saturday, two years after her father was murdered and one day after what would have been his birthday.
INSIGHT: The question of accountability
HAPPY New Year, readers. The ways in which the Christmas holidays fell means it’s been some weeks since my last column – and there certainly has been a lot that has gone on since then.
Pintard says Mitchell’s comments let ‘the cat out of the bag’ on govt view of FOIA
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell’s dismissive comments about the Freedom of Information Act are “incredibly sad” and let “the cat out of the bag” about how the Davis administration feels about a system whose implementation has been slow for more than a decade.
EDITORIAL: Leave no stone unturned to end violence
THE fight against crime should not need to be a partisan matter. Reducing the number of murders in particular should be a goal that we all strive towards together.
Former pageant winners want governing organisation investigated
FORMER Miss Bahamas Universe winners want a “formal investigation” into the organisation governing the pageant, citing concerns about mismanagement and lack of accountability.
FTX US chief feared $9bn Bahamas ‘risk’
FTX’s US chief has admitted he feared a “risk” that the crypto exchange’s Bahamian liquidators “could be awarded material” sums on their $9bn-plus claim if he failed to settle their dispute.
200 jobs through Ocean Club’s $400m expansion
The Ocean Club’s upcoming $400m expansion will create 200 full-time jobs once the development is fully completed in 2027, the project’s partners have revealed.
FTX real estate sell-off can’t cover $256m debt
The sell-off of FTX’s high-end properties “will not be sufficient” to fully repay the $256.3m debt owed to the crypto exchange’s Bahamian subsidiary, it has been asserted.
'We didn't hit $1bn, but we did very well'
The Bahamian high-end real estate market will "do at least as good as 2023 if not better" in 2024, as one major realtor said of last year: "We didn't do $1bn in sales but we did very well."
Passengers of Western Air have scare on Grand Bahama flight
TERRIFIED Western Air passengers prayed and braced for impact on Saturday as their plane made an emergency landing.
Andros upset over road repair delays
CAPTAIN Leslie Johnson spent $760 to replace control arms on his car after the jeep fell into holes on South Andros’ bad roads. His wife’s car –– just purchased on Friday –– began squeaking and had to be taken to a mechanic. Brandon Miller, meanwhile, is planning to replace his car tyres two weeks after getting new ones.
One man dead as 36 cases of COVID-19 reported in six weeks
CASES of COVID-19 are on the rise in New Providence and Grand Bahama, with one man dying.
After 16-year-old girl killed as house riddled with bullets, PM asks: PRAY FOR END TO VIOLENCE
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said he was saddened and shocked by recent murders in the country.
Fidelity defends ‘nominal’ in-person service charge
Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) is defending its imposition of a fee for in-person services by describing the sum involved as “nominal” and pointing out it is the last bank to levy such a charge.
Mullings soars to new record
AFTER spending the past year working on his technique in a new location, former national decathlon record holder Ken Mullings decided to go back to Urbana, Illinois, to continue his training in his attempt to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in July in Paris, France.
Next stop Europe on the road to the Olympics
IN his bid to attempt to qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, judoka Andrew Munnings is planning on taking his training base to Europe over the next four months.
Buddy on the move?
Grand Bahama native Chavano “Buddy” Hield could find himself on a new team roster before the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) trade deadline in early February. The current Indiana Pacers shooting guard has bounced between the starting lineup and bench unit since the start of the 2023-24 NBA season and is now actively involved in trade rumors once again as the February 8 deadline looms.
Rhema Otabor optimistic for 2024 season
With 2023 now in the rearview mirror, expectations are high for not only federations but also top athletes in the 2024 calendar year. Top javelin thrower Rhema Otabor turned in an outstanding 2023 season across the board and although many adopt a “new year, new me” mindset as the calendar flips, The Tribune’s 2023 Senior Female Athlete of the Year wants to build on last year’s tremendous progress this season.
T-Bird Flyers Classics sees more CARIFTA qualifiers
The 32nd T-Bird Flyers Track and Field Classic was a success not only for event organisers but also athletes vying to compete at the 2024 CARIFTA Games scheduled to take place in St George’s, Grenada.
Time for govt to act on crime
I would like to say Happy New Year to every Bahamian across our archipelago and across the world. I hope that this letter reaches you all in good spirits.
Brave, true words at Lyford Cay
Having seen excerpts from the Prime Minister’s speech at Lyford Cay last week, I am left with the hope that we may finally have a government that understands the basic interests of The Bahamas and Bahamians for the first time since that of Lynden Pindling.
DEREK SMITH: Companies must adapt to governance changes
This year, governance, risk and compliance (GRC) will continue to evolve rapidly, driven by technological advances, evolving regulatory environments and changing economic conditions. Gartner projects $205bn in end-user spending on risk management and cyber security in 2024, an increase of 14.3 percent from 2015. GRC programmes will become ever-more important as the regulatory landscape becomes more complex.
Governance reformers: Make transparency laws 'a priority'
Governance reformers yesterday argued that prioritising government transparency and accountability will help combat the same cost of living crisis that the Davis administration is focused on.
Cruise port targeting 25% visitor rise to 5.6m in ‘24
Nassau Cruise Port yesterday affirmed it is targeting a near-25 percent increase in passengers to 5.6m for 2024 after receiving close to 4.5m last year.
Graycliff workers enjoy 20% pay increase over five years
The hotel union’s president says the newly-signed industrial agreement with Graycliff will give 50 workers a 20 percent pay rise spread over five years and place them in a “more stable position”.
Fired Atlantis shop steward now working at hotel union
A former Atlantis chief shop steward, whose firing last year triggered a formal trade dispute, has elected not to return to the resort and is now employed full-time with the hotel union.
Saturday, January 6
Man killed in seventh murder of year
A MAN was shot dead on Saturday afternoon in the seventh murder since the start of the new year.
Friday, January 5
Miss Bahamas Universe resigns claiming lack of support
MISS Bahamas Universe Melissa Ingraham has resigned from her position, saying her decision was due to the disappointing experiences and a lack of support from the Miss Bahamas Universe Organisation.
Hotel union signs industrial agreement with Graycliff
THE Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union signed a five-year industrial agreement with Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant on Friday.
Man in court on murder, firearm charges
A 24-year-old appeared before the Magistrate’s Court on Friday to face murder and firearm charges.
American man accused of killing his father
A 26-YEAR-OLD American man faced Magistrate’s Court on Friday accused of the first murder of 2024.
Man dead after Nassau Village shooting
A man is dead after a shooting in Nassau Village on Friday night.
Clubs & Societies January, 5th, 2024
On January 10, 2024, at 9.30am, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc (Iota Epsilon Lambda and Phi Mu Chapters) in conjunction with the University of The Bahamas will host the 2nd Annual MLK High School Students Oratorical Competition.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Road to White House does not run through The Bahamas - What is Ron DeSantis thinking?
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis got lost on his way to the nomination for Republican candidate for US president in the 2024 election.
ONE ELEUTHERA FOUNDATION – The many benefits of a backyard garden
As we start out a new year and consider the various ways we could potentially live a more sustainable and successful life in the coming year, I want to take this opportunity to highlight the many benefits of backyard farming and growing fresh food in your own yard, home, or community.
Thompson calls on Davis administration to stop raising taxes on Bahamians
EAST Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson wants the Davis administration to stop raising taxes and fees on Bahamians, saying this would help the country fight inflation.
ORG calls for swift action on implementation of the Freedom of Information Act
THE Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG) wants swift action on implementing the Freedom of Information Act, calling it a critical tool.
Cartwright says govt has no plan for fighting crime
FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Shanendon Cartwright said the government does not have a crime plan.
Fast-food chain aiming for $1.5m growth ‘slam dunk’
A Bahamian fast food franchise yesterday revealed it aims to create 25 jobs through a $1.5m expansion into its tenth New Providence location after all planning approvals are obtained.
Taxi drivers threaten own ‘Battle 4 Atlantis’
The Bahamas Taxi Cab Union (BTCU) yesterday threatened to launch its own “Battle for Atlantis” over the mega resort’s efforts to prevent drivers from “clogging” the Coral Towers entrance.
Petroleum retailers fear ‘another nail in the coffin’
Bahamian petroleum retailers yesterday voiced fears that full Business Licence audits will be “just another nail in the coffin” as they push to meet with the Prime Minister over demands for a margin increase.
Boat registration hikes ‘life and death matter’
The Opposition’s finance spokesman yesterday blasted the “cruel” magnitude of the boat registration fee hikes which he branded “a matter of life and death” for his constituency’s subsistence fishermen.
Man found with head injuries dies in hospital
Police are investigating the country’s latest homicide after a man found with injuries off Carmichael Road early on Friday, died in hospital.
BPSU vote results are not ratified
THE registrar of trade unions declined to certify the results of the Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) election after investigating complaints about irregularities, according to Labour director Howard Thompson.
Family hires lawyer after man’s Grand Bahama Shipyard fall
A MAN who fell 60ft from a tanker at the Grand Bahama Shipyard on December 16 has had two surgeries and doctors expect to soon operate on his leg.
Neighbourhood watch chief says police not talking to them any more
THE chairman of the Bahamas National Neighbourhood Watch Council said the body’s relationship with the Royal Bahamas Police Force has gone downhill, causing an increase in crime.
‘TALK TO THE GANG LEADERS’: Pintard urges conclave after latest murders
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said the government should have a conclave with gang leaders to figure out how to stop the bloodshed in the country.
Pope is not follower of Jesus Christ
During the week of Christmas a prominent Baptist YouTuber uploaded a video on YouTube in which he criticised Pope Francis for a controversial and heretical statement made during his Christmas Day address at the Vatican.
Cobras rout Pacers 80-39
The CC Sweeting Cobras senior boys’ basketball team, fresh off their semifinal appearance in the Providence Basketball Club’s Yuletide Classic, made mince meat of the well-rested RM Bailey Pacers.
Sports leaders reflect on plans for new year
IN a continued edition, more and more sporting leaders have presented their expectations for their respective organisations heading into the 2024 season.
DR KENT BAZARD – Daily resolve over annual resolutions
AS we stand on the threshold of a new year, it’s a tradition for many to embark on a journey of self-improvement through the ritual of New Year’s resolutions. We enthusiastically declare our intentions to shed those extra pounds, hit the gym religiously, or nally conquer our fitness goals.
Four men charged over $2.9m worth of marijuana
FOUR MEN were granted bail yesterday after they were allegedly found with $2.9m worth of marijuana off the coast of Ragged Island last week.
Man charged with assault with shotgun granted bail
A MAN was granted $5,000 bail after he allegedly assaulted someone with a shotgun on New Year’s Day.
Man accused of failing to charge monitor gets bail
A MAN on bail for armed robbery was once again granted bail after he allegedly failed to charge his electronic monitoring device.
Anger management classes for man after attack on hospital worker
A MAN was ordered to attend anger management classes after he attacked and injured a hospital worker on Shirley Street last year.
PM renews call on climate financing
The Prime Minister has renewed his charge that there is a “disparity” between the climate changes pledges made by developed countries and the financing required by small island states such as The Bahamas.
Union president hopes deal with Graycliff signed today
The hotel union's president yesterday said it hopes to conclude an industrial agreement with Graycliff as early as today, adding: "You can see the finish line but we're not there yet."
$3m co-working facility 30% booked at launch
A newly-launched western New Providence co-working space was 30 percent booked when it opened on Wednesday, its principal told Tribune Business.
PM spokesman defends $2 tourism expansion
The Prime Minister’s spokesman last night said the $2 levy all Bahamian travellers must now pay will be used to finance further development of this nation’s tourism product for the benefit of all.
Thursday, January 4
STATESIDE: Biden and Trump continue to surge despite various issues and criticisms
What a curious year this promises to be in American politics.
FRONT PORCH – Person of the year: Kim Outten Stubbs, Preserver and Chronicler of history and heritage
KIM Outten Stubbs is a master teacher, an educator by vocation. Earlier in her career she taught at CC Sweeting, RM Bailey and St Augustine’s College. Her devotion to the subjects she taught, including Bahamian history and geography, was infectious. She was a no-nonsense teacher, but not without fun.
Pipeline bridge install to cause road closures in Grand Bahama
THE Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs advises the public that a pipeline bridge will be installed over Grand Bahamian Way for about eight weeks.
Munroe dismisses audit that said RBPF was top-heavy
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe dismissed a manpower audit that found the RBPF is top-heavy, saying the auditors didn’t have any leadership experience in policing.
Govt issues public reminder of verification process for pensioners
A public notice has been issued reminding people of the verification process for pensioners.
Ex-BREA chief: ‘Middle class are not feeling this prosperity’
A two-time Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA) chief is urging banks to cut the down payment demanded from all home buyers to 5 percent, as he warned: “The middle class aren’t feeling this prosperity.”
Melia middle managers’ dismissal claim survives
A wrongful dismissal claim by 50 middle managers at the former Melia Nassau Beach Resort has been permitted to survive “so that justice may not only be done but be seen to be done”.
Chamber ‘carefully monitoring’ frustrations over DIR tax portal
The Chamber of Commerce’s chairman last night said it is “carefully monitoring” mounting private sector frustration caused by the struggle to access the Department of Inland Revenue’s online tax portal.
Developer ‘not having party yet’ over mortgage easing
A major Bahamian residential housing developer yesterday disclosed it is “not having a party yet” over the Central Bank’s decision to relax mortgage lending stipulations.
Central Bank ease ‘won’t open mortgage avenue’
The Central Bank’s recently-unveiled regulatory easing is unlikely to “open up a new avenue of mortgages” being issued to Bahamian home buyers, a senior banker said yesterday.
FNM criticise govt over lack of priority on FOIA
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard criticized Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ response to implementing the Freedom of Information Act, noting the administration’s team is large enough to get it done.
KILLED CATCHING RIDE TO WORK: Two murdered in broad daylight
CHATERE Wells was just a friend catching a ride to work when she was murdered yesterday.
‘Monitoring of some criminals after sentence a consideration’
SOME convicted criminals could be labelled dangerous and ordered to be electronically monitored for up to 20 years after serving their sentence, according to National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, whose ministry is consulting stakeholders on the matter.
Teen fined and given two years probation for having a firearm
A 17-year-old male was fined $2,000 and placed on two years probation after admitting to a gun charge yesterday.
Are we really the best little nation?
Over Christmas we heard again the saying ‘We, The Bahamas, is the best little country in the world’!
Sporting leaders’ sneak preview for year 2024
As the sporting bodies prepare for the 2024 season, leaders of various local associations and federations expressed their views on what they anticipate to do in their respective disciplines.
NACAC Athletics: Sands charts course
HAVING received the confidence of the delegates to serve for another term, Mike Sands said he’s more pleased with the progress his administration made during his first four-year term and he’s eager to proceed with his second term as president of the renamed North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics (NACAC Athletics).
Christopher Saunders earns Commissioner’s Badge from FIBA
VERSATILE Christopher Saunders, a noted journalist, lecturer and politician, has moved to the head of the class as the latest Bahamian to earn his Commissioner’s badge from the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).
Man remanded after being charged with firing an assault rifle at three officers
A MAN is behind bars after he allegedly engaged police with an assault rifle last month near Grant Street before officers shot him.
16-year-old granted $5,000 bail on charge of robbing a person at knifepoint last week
A 16-year-old male was granted bail yesterday after he was accused of robbing a person at knifepoint last week.
Man charged with abusing his daughter sent for evaluation
A FATHER was ordered to be evaluated at Sandilands after he was accused of abusing his six-year-old daughter on New Year’s Eve.
Deidre Bastian: Make staff happier for 2024 business boost
One year has ended and another is here. This opens up many opportunities to evolve and grow your business. Whatever type of company you are managing, you are probably busy thinking about some exciting objectives. But, while you are thinking about statistics and expected outcomes, do not forget about the most essential goal of any flourishing business: Your employees and their satisfaction. Are they happy?
Bahamas set to focus on cruise tourism conversion
The Bahamas will make “deliberate and intentional” efforts to convert more cruise passengers to higher spending and higher-yielding stopover visitors, the deputy prime minster has pledged.
Gov’t targets first quarter for downtown Nassau Bill
The Government is aiming to have legislation governing how downtown Nassau will be managed “fully completed” within the 2024 first quarter, it was revealed yesterday.
Restaurant hosts murder mystery-themed dinner
An expanding high-end restaurant yesterday unveiled more entertainment with its dining options through the ‘Jazz to Kill’ murder mystery-themed dinner.
Restaurant pledges to showcase local talent
A western New Providence restaurant is pledging to stage more events for patrons as it gets set to celebrate its first-year anniversary next month.
Wednesday, January 3
ALICIA WALLACE: More civic engagement needed to hold govt accountable in 2024
WE are in a new calendar, and many people and organisations are making plans and promises, seeking transformation by December 31.
EDITORIAL: No priority for Freedom of Information
SO it turns out that Freedom of Information is not one of Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ top priorities. Forgive us if we are not shocked.
Central Bank mortgage ease may not have instant impact
A realtor yesterday hailed the Central Bank's bid to help more persons "accomplish the Bahamian dream" although he warned the impact may not be felt instantly.
Bahamas 'fumbling ball' on doing business ease
An Opposition MP yesterday blasted that the Bahamas continues to "fumble the ball" on the ease of doing business after spending a frustrating day unable to access the Department of Inland Revenue's portal.
‘Absolutely horrible’ boat registration hikes kick-in
Fishermen and tour operators yesterday hit out at the “absolutely horrible” ten-fold and greater increase in boat registration and renewal fees that Bahamian businesses must pay with the New Year’s arrival.
Ex-environment chief 'grasping at straws'
The Bahamas' former top environmental regulator was "grasping at straws" with his last-ditch bid to prevent the $4.85m seizure of his Shirley Street gas station by the Bank of The Bahamas' bail-out vehicle.
Police say Jamaican woman’s assault at detention centre claim still under investigation
CHIEF Superintendent Michael Johnson said police are still investigating a Jamaican woman’s claim that she was sexually assaulted and abused at the Carmichael Road Detention Centre in November and may need to speak to people outside the country before completing their probe.
Bahamian music artist Canaan For Yah signs a deal with Epidemic Records
CANAAN Cunningham worked multiple jobs to make ends meet when he moved to Miami, doing sound engineering for artists, songwriting, and part-time work at TJ Maxx.
Sherrexia “Rexy” Rolle takes the helm of Western Air as new CEO
SHERREXIA “Rexy” Rolle is succeeding her father as the new CEO and president of Western Air, the family-owned airline.
AG: Sam Bankman-Fried prosecutors ‘rather misleading’ over second trial
The Attorney General yesterday branded the US explanation for not proceeding with Sam Bankman-Fried’s second trial as “rather misleading” since prosecutors knew the FTX chief’s Bahamas action is still live.
Tribunal: It was fair to fire man after fight at work
THE Industrial Tribunal dismissed the claims of a man who said Aquapure wrongfully and unfairly dismissed him after he fought someone on the company’s Bernard Road property in 2022.
Platinum Knights win GB Junkanoo Parade
PLATINUM Knights unofficially won the 2024 New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade in Grand Bahama, beating rival Superstar Rockers by more than 300 points.
Freedom of Information ‘not top priority of govt’
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said implementing the Freedom of Information Act is not one of his top priorities, though he is committed to fulfilling the long-promised pledge to fully enact the system this term.
VICTIM GUNNED DOWN AT HOME: PM says we need to do more to cut the number of killings
DEBORAH Lockhart said when she last saw her nephew, the country’s latest murder victim, he was heading to church on New Year’s Eve.
Man accused of stabbing 50 year-old man in the head remanded until trial
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after he allegedly fatally stabbed a 50-year-old man in the head on Finlayson Street last week.
Taylor named senior male athlete of 2023
It was the Grand Bahamian trio of Lamar Taylor, Donald Thomas and Terrence Jones who turned in some of the most outstanding performances to highlight the 2023 sporting scene for Bahamian men.
Minister Bowleg looking forward to the new year
AS the new year unfolds, Minister Mario Bowleg has some bright ideas for the further development of his tripart Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.
Former basketballer Stevandrae Wells certified as international referee
AFTER retiring from the game as a player, Stevandrae Wells never envisioned herself making the transition to a referee. Since running the floor from 2019, she has now moved up the ranks as one of three Bahamians who have earned their international referee certification.
2024 is the year of anticipation
Those of us who are reading this submission are blessed and highly favoured. We made it into a brand New Year. Had it not been for The Lord, many of us would not be here right now. Many of our fellow Bahamians have; by natural death; debilitating illness; suicide or a violent demise gone across the Jordan. Those of us who yet remain, have much to be thankful for and I daresay that we have great anticipations.
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it
Not even 24 hours into 2024 and all hope to improve the ease of doing business in the country has been shot.
Man charged with vehicular manslaughter after accident leads to man drowning
A MAN was remanded after he is alleged to have caused the death of a man in Abaco who drowned in a car accident on Christmas day.
Man pleads not guilty to stabbing another man on Shirley Street, granted $5,000 bail
A 26-year-old man was granted $5,000 bail yesterday after he was accused of stabbing a man multiple times last week on Shirley Street.
Ex-pat couple charged for being found with a loaded gun at an airport in Abaco
A COUPLE was granted bail after they were allegedly found with a loaded gun in their luggage at the airport in Abaco last month.
Bahamas saw 'in excess' of 9m tourists during 2023
The deputy prime minister says The Bahamas likely received "well in excess" of nine million visitors in 2023 due to a "phenomenal" year for tourism.
Hotels target occupancy and yield growth in 2024
The Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association's (BHTA) president yesterday predicted that resorts will enjoy increases in occupancy and yield during 2024 after a “very strong” Christmas and New Year season.
Air freight operators fret as new cargo fee yet to arrive
Couriers and air freight providers yesterday warned that the proposed new cargo scanning fee will “definitely hurt business” despite it not being implemented on New Year’s Day as originally planned.
Tuesday, January 2
FACE TO FACE: Overcoming obstacles and breaking glass ceilings
Diamond Pearson is breaking barriers and paving her own path to success - one that will ultimately allow her to contribute to her country in an area where not too many experts exist.
PETER YOUNG: Tumultuous year and passing of a statesman
SINCE this column is mainly about international affairs, it might be appropriate at the beginning of January to attempt a brief broad brush review of the year and offer some thoughts about the coming months in what has become a crisis-ridden world. But I fear that in today’s state of febrile uncertainty it would be hazardous to try to predict even the immediate future.
EDITORIAL: DeSantis and his Bahamas rhetoric
What is RonDeSantis’ problem with The Bahamas?
First of the year – hospital welcomes new babies of 2024
IN a partnership between the Public Hospitals Authority and Lowe’s Wholesale Drug, gift baskets were given to nurses who helped deliver the first boy and girl of the new year yesterday.
DeSantis says again he would ‘flatten The Bahamas’ if it attacked Florida
FLORIDA Governor Ron DeSantis again said he would flatten The Bahamas in a hypothetical war –– this time explaining it would take only 12 hours to get the job done.
‘Down-payments cut’ as bank removes indemnity
The Central Bank of the Bahamas (CBB) has released new “relaxed” lending rules for residential mortgages.
Pintard seeks answers on JDL air freight management deal
Opposition leader Michael Pintard has pressed the government on its relationship with air freight management firm JDL and if it has been contracted at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA).
Residents prepare to sue two years after BPL leak
Andros Chamber of Commerce president Darrin Bethel says residents of North Andros are preparing to take legal action after becoming “impatient” with clean-up efforts after a Bahamas Power and Light oil spill.
Contractors hopeful of uptick - but cautious on bank rules
BAHAMAS Contractors Association president Leonard Sands does not see construction slowing down for 2024 and could see a 20 percent uptick, but warned restrictive banking policies could put a damper on the growth.
Father stabbed in year’s first murder
A MAN allegedly stabbed his father during an argument five hours into the new year, the first murder of 2024.
Prodigal Sons’ absence due to ‘unforeseen circumstances’
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg said the Prodigal Sons blamed “unforeseen circumstances” for dropping out of the Boxing Day and New Year’s Day junkanoo parades, an explanation he finds insufficient.
SAXONS MARCH TO TWO STRAIGHT: The Superstars sweep Boxing Day and New Year’s Junkanoo parades
THE Shell Saxons Superstars unofficially won the New Year’s Day Parade, rocking the crowd with a theme of exploring the indigenous history of the archipelago.
Impact of Junkanoo
To get some insight can National Junkanoo Committee confirm certain obvious questions.
Otabor named senior female athlete of 2023
With a strong showing in her first transfer collegiate season and a breakout year on the senior international scene, javelin thrower Rhema Otabor has emerged as The Tribune’s Female Athlete of the Year (2023).
CI Gibson Rattlers keep title
THE CI Gibson Rattlers clinched another senior boys’ title in their own Providence Basketball Club’s 24th Yuletide Basketball Classic on Saturday on their home floor at the CI Gibson Gymnasium.
Knowles, BOC look ahead to Paris Olympics
AS we turn over a new leaf of life for the new year, Bahamas Olympic Committee president Romell Knowles expressed his desire for the Bahamas heading into the Olympic Games in July.
Agape Eagles Junior Boys take crown
THERE was much cause for celebrations for coach Stephan Johnson and his Agape Eagles, even if it took eight years to achieve it.
Failure to learn how we got here
I think that it was Wednesday of last week that a raft of Tax Amendments were analysed by BICA (Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants) from the Department of Inland Revenue. Changes from Real Property Tax increased penalties, to VAT updates, and on to Business Licence changes, and I could only think to myself “Do these people even have a clue how we (The Bahamas) got to where we are today”?
Start with licences
Traffic Lights — running ‘red’ light… How many accidents occur from that? Supt Lockhart RBPF or Road Traffic can’t ensure that 50% of the vehicles on the road are licenced and insured and you want to spend money on red light technology? Get basics working first, sir.
Realtor urges push to buy amid soaring rental prices
A Bahamian realtor has urged more emphasis on buying a home for 2024 considering the rise in rental rates.
Share index up over year, reports BISX
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) reported equity of $5.96bn and debt totalling $4.51bn as at September 2023, representing a 1.57 percent increase for the nine-month period.
Sanctions without hearing part of new securities bill
The Securities Commission of The Bahamas (SCB) issued the Securities Industry Bill 2024 for public consultation last week - which seeks to ensure laws are "current, competitive, and reflect international best practice and standards".
