Monday, March 31
03312025 HOME BUYER'S GUIDE
Monday, March 31, 2025
Gov’t intervenes in Old Bahama Bay’s management row
The Government has intervened in the escalating dispute over Old Bahama Bay by demanding that the parties involved in retaking the hotel’s management “cease and desist” until they obtain the necessary permits.
Bahamas targets world beating depositor safety
Around 580,000 Bahamian bank accounts were fully protected against their institution’s possible collapse as at year-end 2024, the Central Bank’s governor has revealed.
Global aviation body warns Bahamas on retroactive fees
Global aviation’s trade body has warned it is “imperative” that Bahamian and other airlines not be penalised by triple-digit retroactive fee hikes as a result of “errors” by local regulators.
New power plants tap investors for $132.5m
A successful renewable energy bidder yesterday unveiled plans to raise a total $132.5m from Bahamian investors to finance the development of new power plants on Abaco and Eleuthera.
Concerns over Abaco shanty town debris fuelling fires
ABACO residents are urging the government to clear debris from demolished shanty towns, claiming the rubble is fueling fires that pose serious health hazards to nearby communities.
Judge in corruption case: Delays could crush system
A SUPREME Court judge has warned that prolonged delays in criminal proceedings in The Bahamas could “crush this system”, as he raised alarm over outstanding evidence and scheduling issues in the high-profile bribery case involving a former senior police officer and a prominent attorney.
Children among those forced to flee GB fires
A REGENCY Park resident has been left with nothing but the clothes on his back after wild bushfires tore through parts of Freeport on Friday, destroying his home and displacing dozens, including children from the Grand Bahama Children’s Home.
Police shooting ruled manslaughter by inquest
THE parents of Deron Okoye Wilkinson wept in court on Friday as a jury found that his death in a 2018 police-involved shooting was a case of homicide by manslaughter.
Family demanding justice for Sammy
SAMUEL “Sammy” Thompson was bleeding from the head and disoriented when he sent a video to his cousin after a night out in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.
Race and politics in our nation
THE Bahamas, despite her size and geopolitical location weild a great deal of influence and sway within the region.
Tribute due to our local musicians
WITH the utmost respect and deepest condolences, I extend heartfelt sympathy to the family and loved ones of the late Elon Moxey, affectionately known as “The Crab Man”.
What is needed for VAT cut?
THE lead story in Friday’s Tribune stirred a response from the Office of the Prime Minister.
US ‘joining’ the Commonwealth: An unreasonable expectation
Recent media stories have suggested that King Charles III could “invite” the United States to join the Commonwealth of Nations.
Graycliff eyes distribution deal with Caribbean first
Graycliff has become the first Caribbean home for the Watenshi gin through its recent partnership with Cambridge Distillery.
Menzies and Roach take home triathlon titles
MALCOLM Menzies and Kami Roach repeated as the men and women champions of the 2025 Powerade Potcakeman Triathlon yesterday at Jaws Beach.
Abaco hurricane shelter to be ready by end of May, says PM
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said on Friday that the long-delayed hurricane shelter in Central Pines, Abaco, will be completed by the end of May — just in time for the start of hurricane season.
US judge postpones cocaine trafficking pretrial involving three Bahamian men
A US judge has postponed the pretrial conference for three Bahamian men accused of playing key roles in a transnational cocaine trafficking scheme, granting prosecutors more time to disclose evidence and explore possible plea deals.
Two charged with murder including prisoner accused of stabbing inmate
AN inmate accused of fatally stabbing another prisoner at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDOCS) last month was charged with murder on Friday.
INSIGHT: Enormity of Haiti’s problems staggering
ONE of the great fears of the mission in Haiti was what would happen if officers sent there as part of the multinational mission started to be targeted and killed by gangs there.
‘No spike seen in Bahamians detained by US Immigration’
THERE has been no increase in the detention or deportation of Bahamians by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) despite intensified enforcement under the Trump administration, according to Jerusa Lea Ali, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
‘Ageless wonder’: Timothy Munnings sets another world record
Timothy Munnings can celebrate again with another world record - this time in the men’s 400 metres indoors at the World Masters Association’s Indoor Championships.
Revived Young Professionals Society gains ‘50 applications’
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) says it has have received “50 initial applications” for the revived Young Professionals Society (OYP).
Olympian Lamar Taylor and relay team in the NCAA record books
BAHAMIAN Olympian Lamar Taylor closed out his collegiate swimming career at the University of Tennessee by inking his name on the Volunteers men’s 400m freestyle relay team at the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Swimming Championships over the weekend.
‘Coach Yo’ and her lady rebels are eliminated
COACH Yolett McPhee-McCuin and her Ole Miss Lady Rebels women’s basketball team’s run at the 2025 NCAA Division Women’s Basketball Tournament came to an end on Saturday.
Saturday, March 29
UPDATED: Marines being deployed to help fight GB fire
A TEAM of 26 marines are being deployed on Saturday to Grand Bahama to help tackle the wild fires that have broken out there - with National Security Minister Wayne Munroe warning that climate change has resulted in an early start to the fire season.
Teenager shot dead in early morning shooting
A TEENAGER is dead after an early Saturday morning shooting and a second man is injured after a separate shooting incident on Friday night.
Friday, March 28
LETTER: Clock is running on promises
IN this space we call Earth, all of us are confined by time. Time governs life, decisions, progress—and, importantly, governance. Whether measured by clocks, calendars, or constitutions, time determines what leaders can and should do with the mandate they’ve been given.
LETTER: Hoping US Ambassador is declined
NOMINATION of ex-NFL player Herschel Walker as Ambassador to the Bahamas by The US.
EDITORIAL: Dangling promises and an election on the way?
It must be election season. The promises are beginning.
Clubs and Societies March 28
The Cancer Society of The Bahamas received a grant in the amount of $6,500 from the MDRT Foundation, the charitable arm of MDRT (Million Dollar Round Table), The Premier Association of Financial Professionals.
ERIC WIBERG: Come run see Jerusalem
Folklore and fact intersect with a song named Run Come See Jerusalem, first sung in Andros in 1929, with witnesses and crew writing and performing the music.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Whose ocean is it anyway?
The waters of The Bahamas belong to all of us, or in the vernacular, allawee. We take so much pride in our waters you’d think we had given birth to them. Like those who live near dense forests or grow up against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, we develop a rapport with our surroundings. We feel grounded by their very presence. They become part of our psyche as much as the neighbourhood we live in, the space we worship in, place where we work or play.
Fined for bail violation while waiting trial for rape and armed robbery
A MAN awaiting trial for armed robbery was fined after admitting to breaching his bail conditions three times while in Harbour Island.
$500 fine imposed for pulling switchblade knife on man
A MAN was ordered yesterday to compensate someone he pulled a switchblade on in the area of Yamacraw Beach Drive last week.
Man gets two-year sentence for possession of loaded gun
A MAN was sentenced to two years in prison yesterday after admitting to possession of a loaded gun in Yellow Elder earlier this week.
Annual Agri Expo returns - with more than 80 vendors taking part
THE Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources is set to host its annual Agri Expo to promote Bahamian agriculture and strengthen food security.
Officials silent over tug and barge stranded on reef at Fowl Cay
MORE than a year after a tugboat and barge ran aground on a fragile reef in the protected Fowl Cays National Park, government officials remain silent on the stalled removal effort — despite repeated requests for answers.
Pathologist testifies that Wilkinson died from single gunshot to head in police-involved killing
A PATHOLOGIST testified yesterday that Deron Okoye Wilkinson died from a single gunshot wound to the head after being fatally shot by police in his car on Independence Highway in 2018.
Largest HBCU college fair to be held today in Grand Bahama
THE largest HBCU college fair will be held in Grand Bahama and New Providence this week, awarding millions in scholarships to Bahamian students.
GBPA gives govt over 80 acres of land to develop aquatics centre
THE government officially received over 80 acres of land on Thursday — valued at over $6 million — to develop a new aquatics centre at the Grand Bahama Sports Complex.
‘Gambling addiction quietly taking root among Bahamian students’
GAMBLING addiction is silently taking hold among Bahamian students, with many engaging in betting games without understanding the risks or recognising they may already be addicted, according to Paulette Dean, chairperson of the Gambling Addiction Awareness Programme at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre (SRC).
Police still investigating claims a fourth-grade student was assaulted by officer
The alleged assault of a 4th-grade EP Roberts Primary School student by a police officer is still under investigation by the Complaints and Corruption Unit two months after the incident occurred in January.
Inmate charged with murder of another prisoner
AN inmate accused of fatally stabbing another prisoner at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDOCS) last month was charged with murder on Friday.
Ginn ‘owner’ complaint to Data Protection regulator
A Bahamian investor yesterday refuted complaints made to data protection regulators in The Bahamas and US that he has “misrepresented” himself as the owner and/or purchaser of the former Ginn project.
Yacht charter VAT removal ‘smartest thing I have heard’
The Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) president yesterday branded the Opposition’s pledge to eliminate the payment of VAT on foreign yacht charter fees as “the smartest thing I’ve heard”.
Edible foods VAT rate cut ‘more complicated’
Super Value’s owner yesterday said the imminent VAT rate cut for all uncooked foods is “more complicated” than previous adjustments because only 50 percent of products will be impacted.
AG: Bahamas to meet leading Trump officials on ‘unfair’ report
The Attorney General yesterday revealed that the Government plans to meet with senior Trump administration officials over “unfair” US criticisms of The Bahamas’ anti-financial crime regime.
Forest blaze threatens homes
A fast-moving forest fire in Coral Harbour forced residents to protect their homes, consider evacuation, and brace for worsening conditions yesterday as thick smoke and flames spread rapidly through the area, causing widespread traffic disruptions.
Pintard blames Davis govt over $7m wasted by BPL
The Opposition’s leader yesterday blamed the Davis administration for squandering $7m of the Bahamian people’s money by failing to complete the land purchase for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal.
PM: Back me and I may cut VAT again
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis suggested yesterday that additional value added tax cuts could happen if Bahamians continue to support his government.
Davis: We’re trying to diversify - as he highlights small stores
AS the cost of food continues to rise, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis visited several convenience stores and small businesses in the Fox Hill area yesterday to discuss a trade diversification programme aimed at helping small grocers make bulk purchases from new trade centres.
Thompson holidng her own at Columbia College
GRAND Bahamian Rachel Thompson, who embodies hard work, dedication and determination, continues to make her presence felt with the Columbia College women's tennis team.
Fair to be held today by Afri-Caribbean Trade and Logistics Multipurpose Cooperative Society
A FAIR will be held by the Afri-Caribbean Trade and Logistics Multipurpose Cooperative Society to raise funds for an upcoming conference in Africa next month.
Byfield misses cut, Humblestone disqualified at World Indoors Masters
IT wasn’t the type of fortune the Bahamas’ five-member team expected to achieve on day five of the 2025 World Masters Associations’ World Indoor Championships at the Alachua County Sports Center in Alachua, Florida.
Davis denies he was overlooked after he was not invited to Rubio’s meeting in Jamaica
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis confirmed that he was not invited to high-level talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during the American official’s recent visit to Jamaica, but rejected the notion that The Trump administration is overlooking The Bahamas.
Shortstop Sebastian Walcott heads to AA
As one of their top minor league prospects, Bahamian shortstop Sebastian Walcott said he was thrilled to go to the Texas Rangers’ Major League spring training camp at the Surprise Stadium in Surprise, Arizona.
What we can learn from China to develop sports in The Bahamas
I RECENTLY returned from the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China, where I had the privilege of serving as team physician for our national track and field team.
Chisholm Jr and Yankees win season opener
JASRADO “Jazz” Chisholm Jr and the New York Yankees opened the 2025 Major League Baseball season by doubling up the Milwaukee Brewers 4-2 last night at Yankee Stadium.
Collinique named Athlete of the Year
GRAND Bahamian quarter-miler Collinique Farrington couldn’t ask for a better way to close out her senior indoor track and field campaign for the Southwest Baptist University Bearcats women’s track and field team.
Thursday, March 27
LIVE UPDATES: Coral Habour Fire
Fire Services is battling a bush fire near the Coral Harbour roundabout that has flooded the area with dense smoke reducing visibility and forced the closure of sections of Carmichael Road.
Pintard demands House debate on BPL reforms
FNM leader Michael Pintard hit out at the BPL tendering process yesterday, saying “we don’t see the competitive bidding”.
Investor fails to recover $7.5m on failed Rose Isl. Ritz-Carlton
A Bahamas-based investor has failed to recover the outstanding $7.5m they were allegedly owed for selling land to the now-abandoned Ritz-Carlton project on Rose Island.
PM: We will comply on tax - but we will fight for fairness
Prime Minister Philip Davis said although the country will “always comply” with international tax regimes, the nation will continue to advocate for fair treatment.
Green scheme may reward or penalise participants
BUSINESSES and households participating in new government-approved green initiatives could qualify for cost-saving incentives — but risk stiff penalties if they fail to meet strict emissions reporting requirements under new regulations tabled in the House of Assembly yesterday.
Tugboat and barge continues to do damage to Abaco reef one year later
ONE year after a tugboat and barge ran aground on a coral reef in the protected Fowl Cays National Park, the vessels remain stranded, with debris continuing to destroy critically endangered coral and frustrate conservationists, divers, and Abaco residents.
Defence Force officer accused of kissing and groping two teen cadets
A 25-YEAR-OLD defence force officer has been accused of indecent conduct with two 17-year-old female cadets at a defence force base last week.
‘What role will Canadian company play in elections?’
FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Shanendon Cartwright urged the government to “come clean” about the possible involvement of a Canadian company in the operations of the Parliamentary Registration Department.
‘No plan to impose new taxes on food’
WITH 71 percent of Bahamian adults overweight, the Davis administration tabled a bill aimed at curbing non-communicable diseases through tougher food regulations and the option to tax unhealthy products — though Health Minister Dr Michael Darville stressed the government has no plans to impose such taxes.
Bank complaints need more than just talk
WHAT has your experience been of opening a bank account?
Assault with a handgun charge
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of assaulting another man with a handgun outside a wash house on Joe Farrington Road earlier this week.
FRONT PORCH: Infighting and division in political parties
Infighting is a regular occurrence in political parties.
STATESIDE: What will curb the onslaught of Trump?
US president Donald Trump’s slavering appetite for Greenland and even Canada grows.
Rubio continues pressure over hiring Cuban workers
UNITED States Secretary of State Marco Rubio renewed his criticism of Cuba’s overseas medical missions during a visit to Jamaica yesterday.
Bahamians suffer losses in the NBA
BAHAMIAN National Basketball Association (NBA) pros all experienced losses on Tuesday night on the West and East coast.
Pintard: We believe Davis fired election commissioner Taylor
OPPOSITION Leader Michael Pintard has intensified calls for transparency surrounding the reassignment of former Acting Parliamentary Commissioner Arthur Taylor, accusing the Davis administration of removing him for being too forthcoming about election matters.
Are we still a nation for sale?
A report entitled “The Bahamas: A Nation For Sale” by investigative television journalist Brian Ross was aired on NBC in the United States.
Pindling holiday
I write to lend my voice to the brewing public discussion that has been reignited recently in the local media, the call to declare March 22nd, the birthday of Sir Lynden Oscar Pindling, as a public holiday in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
Testimony contradicts officer’s claim that EMT moved firearm at police-involved killing
CONFLICTING accounts have emerged over the position of Deron Okoye Wilkinson’s body and the location of a firearm after he was fatally shot in his car by police on Independence Highway in 2018.
Bowe: Banks open new accounts typically in less than 48 hours
FINANCIAL expert Gowon Bowe has pushed back against claims that opening a bank account is a challenge in The Bahamas, insisting the process is typically completed in less than 48 hours for most people with straightforward financial profiles.
Brothers sentenced for breaking into pre-school
TWO brothers were sentenced to prison yesterday after admitting to breaking into a preschool on the corner of Ragged Island and Bahama Avenue twice this year.
Many Grand Bahamians lineup for job fair with links to Carnival Cruise Lines
DOZENS of job seekers lined up from as early as 7am in Freeport yesterday, hoping to secure one of more than 600 positions offered through a hiring drive linked to Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key project.
Devynne Charlton brings home gold
The indomitable but humble spirit of world indoor record holder Devynne Charlton was on full display at the 2025 World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China, where she emerged as the two-time indoor champion in the women’s 60 metres hurdles finals.
World Masters Indoors: Humblestone advances to 200m finals
THREE Bahamian masters athletes saw action yesterday at the 2025 World Masters Athletics (WMA) World Indoor Championships at the Alachua County Sports and Event Center in Gainesville, Florida.
‘Chaos and discord’ erupt at Old Bahama Bay hotel
A furious battle yesterday erupted over Grand Bahama’s Old Bahama Bay resort as a group of its condo owners vowed to resist moves to replace them as the management company for the property.
Opposition leader pledges Business Licence reforms
The Opposition’s leader yesterday pledged to reform the now-mandatory Business Licence audit for high turnover firms and abolish the practice of estimating the upcoming year’s turnover if elected to office.
Wednesday, March 26
Parliament’s watchdog set to grill Ministry of Finance chief
Parliament’s spending watchdog plans to grill the Ministry of Finance’s top official next Tuesday over “a range of hot button issues” uncovered by recently-completed investigations from the Auditor General.
Chinese ship fee threatens Tropical Shipping survival
The survival of a major ocean freight carrier serving The Bahamas would be in jeopardy if the US proceeds with a Chinese-made ship fee that “would almost double” 40-foot container cargo rates.
Delta contractor’s staff lose in dismissal claim
Three former employees of a contractor that provided security services for Delta Airlines in Exuma lost their wrongful dismissal claim because they “voted with their feet” and joined a rival without being terminated.
Tax authority ‘determined’ on Business Licence delay
The Department of Inland Revenue was yesterday said to be “determined” to overcome the Business Licence application backlog and ensure all renewals and new requests are promptly processed.
Bahamas to host 2028 World Relays
While they would have preferred to have the two upcoming editions, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg told World Athletics that they are excited that The Bahamas will get to host the 2028 World Relays.
Govt testing virtual system to help people battling mental health issues
WITH six suicides recorded in The Bahamas in under three months, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville says the government is testing a digital platform to allow people to access online mental health consultations from home.
Ministries of Health and Education team up to bolster allied health workers
THE Ministry of Health and Wellness is partnering with the Ministry of Education to encourage more young Bahamians to pursue careers in allied health, aiming to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign workers and address long-standing shortages in the healthcare system.
400 pounds of rocket debris recovered by SpaceX
ROUGHLY 400 pounds of debris — mostly lightweight silica tiles — have been recovered near Ragged Island following the March 6 explosion of SpaceX’s Starship 8 rocket, the Office of the Prime Minister said yesterday.
Man’s abduction sentence sparks debate over changing age of consent
WOMEN’S rights activist Alicia Wallace has pushed back against calls to raise the age of consent, arguing instead that The Bahamas must ensure teenagers who are legally allowed to have sex can also access reproductive healthcare without barriers.
China: Bahamas part of US surveillance strategy
A CHINESE cybersecurity report has listed The Bahamas among countries allegedly used as part of a covert surveillance strategy by the United States and its intelligence-sharing allies.
‘PM won’t get off that easy’
An ex-prime minister yesterday warned Philip Davis KC that “he won’t get off that easy” over the Bahamas Moorings deal as he pledged to “keep digging” into the now-terminated lease agreement.
More states move to ban cellphones use in school
More states are moving to ban or restrict cellphones in school, a trend that continues to win bipartisan support in legislatures.
Best-of-the-Best Sr Boys Basketball Tourney set for Grand Bahama
IN the absence of the National High School Basketball Tournament, the second annual Mario Bowleg’s Best of the Best Senior Boys Basketball Tournament is scheduled to take place this week in Grand Bahama.
‘Buddy’ Hield climbing up the ladder
WHILE there are rumours circulating that Grand Bahamian Chavano “Buddy” Hield could be on the trading block again during the off-season, he’s making the best of his current sting with the Golden State Warriors.
Money owed by govt to teacher still unpaid to mom three years after his death
THREE years after the death of public school teacher Jay Roosevelt, his mother says she is still unable to access gratuity and backpay owed to him — despite being listed as his sole beneficiary.
Officer testifies Wilkinson had a gun but family claim he was unarmed
AN officer testified that her partner shot and killed 27-year-old Deron Okoye Wilkinson on Independence Highway in 2018 after the deceased allegedly pulled out a gun during a traffic stop.
Bishop calls on Bahamians in US illegally to return home before they get deported
BISHOP Simeon Hall is calling on Bahamians living illegally in the United States to return home, warning that they could face arrest and deportation if they remain.
Chamber: New holiday would strain businesses
THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) is urging lawmakers to reconsider a proposal to create a public holiday in honour of former Prime Minister Sir Lynden Pindling, warning that the move could strain businesses already burdened by high costs.
Windsor hosts Indoor Rowing Championships
ON Saturday, the Windsor School hosted the first Indoor Rowing Championships in The Bahamas.
Bahamas Football Association men’s and youth league regular season results
THE Bahamas Football Association continued its men’s and youth leagues regular season over the weekend at the Roscoe L Davies Developmental Center.
Inland Revenue notes Family Island businesses unaware of how to remain compliant
MANY Family Island businesses are unaware of the steps required to operate legally and maintain good business practices, according to Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) officials.
37-year-old charged with molesting underage niece
A 37-year-old man was granted bail yesterday after he was accused of molesting his underaged niece over a three-year period.
Charged for injuring man with bladed-weapon
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of attacking another man with a blade in Eleuthera last week.
Man accused of raping 15-year-old girl
A 32-year-old man was granted bail yesterday after he was accused of molesting a 15-year-old girl in New Providence.
ALICIA WALLACE: Learn and understand platforms on equality
The latest session of the Commission on the Status of Women—an annual meeting held at the United Nations in New York City in March, Women’s History Month, and close to International Women’s Day, closed on Friday last week.
Man and woman hospitalised in shooting incident last night
POLICE are investigating two shooting incidents that left a man and a woman injured last night.
Tuesday, March 25
Bahamians warn US: $1m China ship fee ‘will kill us’
Bahamian businesses have warned the US government that plans to levy up to $1m fees per port call on Chinese-made ships “will kill us” and “make no sense” for either this nation or American firms.
‘Over 30%’ of BJC students miss math, English targets
Good-paying jobs are beyond the reach of too many Bahamians with “more than 30 percent of students” sitting BJC mathematics and English exams “failing to achieve” the required standards and grades.
Opposition challenges Govt’s ‘much touted’ carbon credits
The Opposition’s finance spokesman yesterday challenged the Government to detail when Bahamians will see a return from its “much touted” blue carbon credits as it appears to be eyeing different securities.
Cuban, Bahamian Gov’ts battle on $90k CIBC funds
A Cuban government-owned travel agency has failed in its latest bid to obtain summary judgment against the Bahamian government and CIBC Caribbean in a dispute over a 25 year-old cheque worth $90,000.
Changing banks ‘switching from one devil for the next’
Changing commercial banks is equivalent to “switching one devil for the next”, business owners argued yesterday, asserting that their fee and account opening experience is far different from industry surveys.
Royal Caribbean names PI Beach Club operations head
Royal Caribbean yesterday said the operations chief at its main Bahamian private island will move to Nassau and become general manager at its Paradise Island-based Royal Beach Club.
Bahamas targets boaters at Palm Beach Boat Show
The Bahamas used the five-day Palm Beach International Boat Show as a platform to attract more boating and yachting visitors to this destination.
Long Island mulls protest with 2025 the ‘worst ever’
A Long Island business owner, who has applied to stage a peaceful protest over the condition of the island’s economy, yesterday said conditions at the Deadman’s Cay airport are “holding the island back”.
Mitchell: No one wants to wait six months to open a bank acccount
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell has dismissed a recent Central Bank survey claiming that 99 percent of bank account applications are approved, calling a headline about the story “the big chuckle of the week” and arguing that the statistic masks the frustrating reality many Bahamians face.
Pindling’s birthday proposed for new holiday
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell has proposed that the government make the birthday of Sir Lynden Pindling, or a nearby date, a national holiday.
Man abducted teen and kept her at his home for a month
A 26-year-old man was sentenced to one year in prison after admitting to abducting his 17-year-old girlfriend, who had recently argued with her mother, and keeping her at his home for over a month.
Performing arts school links to Hollywood firm
A NEW government arts school offering free, high-level training in acting, dance, and singing will open in September with help from a top Hollywood talent agency representing such stars as Tom Hanks and Reese Witherspoon.
‘End secrecy over SpaceX clean-up’
FORMER Environment Minister Romauld Ferreira says the government must be transparent about how much SpaceX will pay to clean up debris from its Starship rocket explosion, arguing that secrecy only benefits the polluter and erodes public trust.
Theatre arts community mourns the loss of GB playwright Gea Pierre
THE Bahamian theatre and arts community is mourning the loss of renowned Grand Bahamian playwright Gea Pierre.
IVOINE INGRAHAM: Two sides of the coin on crime
Crime is not just a distant issue; it’s a pressing concern that affects us all.
Hanna-Martin: I would love to see Bahamians fill positions of importance
DAYS after the University of The Bahamas (UB) announced American academic Dr Robert Blaine III as its new president, Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said she still hopes to see a Bahamian lead the institution one day.
Dillion leads the way in recycling
Dillon Evans, a student at Aquinas College, has earned the top prize in the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) “Cans for Kids” collection contest, thanks to his impressive environmental stewardship.
Cadet corps offers training to nation
The Bahamas Maritime Cadet Corps (BMCC), in partnership with the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), is offering specialised STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) training to 12th grade cadets across the country.
University and Blue Lagoon team up for project
The University of the Bahamas has partnered with Blue Lagoon Island to embark on a project aimed at identifying and labelling the diverse plant and tree species found across the island.
Glover-Rolle: Public servants will have choice of monthly or bi-monthly pay
PUBLIC servants will have the choice to receive their salaries either bi-monthly or monthly as the government intends to move forward with payroll reforms, Labour Minister Pia Glover-Rolle said yesterday.
Jury empanelled for police-involved killing of Deron Wilkinson in 2018
A JURY was empanelled yesterday to hear evidence in the police-involved shooting death of 27-year-old Deron Okoye Wilkinson on Independence Highway in 2018.
30 months jail for having loaded gun
A MAN was sentenced to 30 months in prison yesterday after admitting to having a loaded gun in his Eleuthera home last week.
Haitian woman accused of having fake passport
A WOMAN of Haitian descent was granted bail yesterday after she was accused of possessing a fake Bahamian passport last year.
Bahama grill offers $5,000 reward over food ‘rumour’
BAHAMA Grill is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification and prosecution of those spreading what it calls false and defamatory claims linking its food to recent illnesses or death.
PETER YOUNG: Peace in Ukraine remains elusive
Judging from comments I have seen in the UK press, to many observers in Britain the obsession of US TV stations with being the first to provide their viewers with the latest news brings with it needless contradictions.
CARIFTA swimmers on quest for ‘7th Heaven’
One week after being named by Bahamas Aquatics, members of the 36-member team heading to Trinidad & Tobago on a quest for their seventh straight CARIFTA swimming title began their training sessions in unison.
Marvin Henfield basketball expands to Freetown Urban Renewal
WHILE it’s structured for a set learning programme, Marvin Henfield said he’s always willing to open the doors at his Marvin Henfield Basketball facilities for visits by any and every organisation in the country.
Murray embracing new role as national team coach
AFTER making his presence felt as a three-time Olympic swimmer, Allan Murray is now embracing his new role in Bahamas Aquatics as a national team coach.
Daron Lightbourne new president of the coaches’ association
FOLLOWING the completion of their elections on Saturday morning at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, Daron Lightbourne was elected as the new president of the Bahamas Athletic Associations of Coaches.
Monday, March 24
03242025 HOME BUYER'S GUIDE
Monday, March 24, 2025
BPL’s near-$1bn loss on ill-advised rate cut
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) and its predecessor lost almost $1bn in revenues during the 18 years to end-2021 due to the first Christie administration’s decision to cut electricity base rates below cost.
‘Let your feet do talking’ over bank fee concerns
Bahamians must “let your feet do the talking” if they feel they are being poorly treated or over-charged, a senior banker is arguing, with the latest data dispelling any fears of price-fixing on fees.
Gov’t missed pledge to cut top Water Corp supplier $28m debt
The supplier that provides all the Water & Sewerage Corporation’s Nassau customers with their water has revealed the Government failed to meet pledges to “substantially” cut the $28.4m owed to it by end-2024.
Court rejects injured workers’s plea for $70,000 interim payment ahead of trial
A SUPREME Court judge has rejected a former grocery store worker’s request for an interim payment of up to $70,000 ahead of his upcoming trial against AML Foods Limited, ruling that substantial factual disputes make the case unsuitable for pretrial relief.
Abaco shelter ‘on track’ as officials preparing for hurricane season
EMERGENCY management officials say national hurricane shelter inspections will begin on April 1 as part of ongoing readiness efforts, with a renewed focus on categorising shelters by storm type and expanding overall capacity.
Visitor dies after jet ski hits rocks at Half Moon Cay
POLICE are investigating the death of a female cruise passenger who died on Saturday after crashing a jet ski into a rock at Half Moon Cay.
Charlton defends her crown
It was another gold-medal performance for The Bahamas’ world indoor record holder Devynne Charlton as she repeated as champion of the women’s 60 metres hurdles at the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China.
‘My ten years trapped in bed after car accident’
GABRIELLE “Gabby” Lord was 25 when a car ride with her grandfather changed her life forever.
Pintard blasted for LNG deal criticism
FOCOL Holdings chairman has accused the Opposition’s leader of “political gimmickry” and “petty foolishness” over his demands for greater disclosure and transparency on the Government’s energy reforms.
‘Regional cooperation important after US cut NOAA and USAID budgets’
WITH sweeping staff cuts threatening the reliability of the United States’ key weather agency, a top Bahamian disaster official is urging greater regional cooperation to avoid overdependence on foreign forecasting support.
Gardiner opens outdoor season with easy victory in 300m
IT was a successful return to the track for The Bahamas men’s national 400 metre champion Steven Gardiner over the weekend in the Cobb Stadium at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida.
SAC clinches five of eight divisions at high school track & field nationals
THE St Augustine’s College (SAC) Big Red Machine hauled away five of eight division titles on the final day of the National High School Track and Field Championships at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
Trump interest in Commonwealth a dead cat?
IT was a throw-away line, but in the fashion of such comments from US President Donald Trump, it has generated plenty of discussion.
Try flowers instead of billboards
UGLINESS created by US…your writer absolutely right billboards bigger and bigger.
GB police relocation and politics
CONCERNING the eviction notices handed out to the 50 police officers residing in government owned apartment units in Freeport, I would say that this is a very sensitive, touchy situation that the governing Progressive Liberal Party and the Opposition Free National Movement are wrangling over.
WORLD VIEW: The Caribbean - Destined to grin and bear the consequences of its self-created vulnerabilities?
For decades, many Caribbean nations have grappled with dependence on a small number of powerful countries to supply vital imports, fill hotel rooms with tourists, and grant visas that open doors to opportunity.
Judge upholds conviction of two men on cocaine charges
THE Court of Appeal has upheld the convictions of two men on drug charges, rejecting claims that their trials were unfair or unsupported by evidence and reinforcing the legal weight of circumstantial proof and statutory presumptions in drug prosecutions.
Sunday, March 23
Woman dies in jet ski crash
A FEMALE tourist has died after a jet ski crash at Half Moon Cay on Saturday.
Saturday, March 22
Education minister appeals to drivers after high schooler injured in traffic accident
EDUCATION Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin has urged motorists to exercise greater caution near school zones after a CH Reeves Junior High School student was reportedly injured in a traffic accident near the Mall of Marathon on Thursday.
Man accused of East St south stabbing
A 50-year-old male was imprisoned on Friday after he was accused of the fatal stabbing of a man outside a business on East Street South earlier this month.
Friday, March 21
Woman accused of assaulting another woman with baseball bat
A WOMAN was granted bail after she allegedly assaulted another woman with a baseball bat earlier this month.
Teen admits to possession of loaded gun
A 16-year-old boy admitted to having a loaded gun and running away from police on Kemp Road earlier this month.
Man accused of raping women tourists fined for violating bail conditions
A HARBOUR Island man was fined on Friday for violating his bail conditions while awaiting trial for allegedly raping two women tourists in 2018.
‘$50m a year savings’ from LNG facility
ANNUAL fuel savings of $50m are forecast from a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility during its first phase - and rising up to $180m in its fourth phase.
Transmission resumed: 10% payments revival in early ‘25
Money transmission activity has rebounded by an estimated 10 percent for 2025 to-date, it was revealed yesterday, following double-digit percentage declines in both volume and value during 2024.
Bahamas faces 50-60% shipping costs increase from US port fee plans
Bahamian and Caribbean companies that rely on US imports will likely suffer a 50-60 percent increase in shipping costs if proposals to levy an up to $1.5m per port call fee on Chinese-made ships are implemented.
$5m legal battle erupts on grounded tug boat, barge
A furious $5m-plus legal battle has erupted over a tug boat and barge that became stranded in an Abaco national park in late March 2024 - an incident that sparked major environmental concerns.
$200m building cost for LNG terminal
Senator Ryan Pinder said a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal will be a joint venture between FOCOL and Shell, with construction of the first and second phase to amount to just under $200m.
Eleuthera man found dead was known to have a ‘lively spirit’
NEBERTH Johnson, a mechanic in his 60s known for his lively spirit, was found dead near a business in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, on Wednesday.
“One Youth, One Voice” event educates students about role of CARICOM
FOUR hundred 11th-grade students from across the country gathered at Baha Mar yesterday to learn about CARICOM’s role in regional development.
Govt: LNG terminal ‘to save $50m a year’ in fuel costs
THE government has signed two agreements to facilitate the development of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Clifton Pier, with officials projecting $50m in annual fuel savings during the project’s first phase.
Emotional toll on families left behind after suicide
With six suicides recorded in The Bahamas less than three months into the year, the growing crisis is reopening wounds for families already grappling with similar losses.
Concerns for mangroves as govt allows land clearing
THE Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) has lifted a cease-and-desist order issued last July to an industrial company, allowing it to resume land development at a site off Queen’s Highway, where mangroves are under threat.
Eleuthera fire burning six days as residents feeling ‘neglected’
A RAGING six-day fire in Wemyss Bight, Eleuthera, has forced residents to battle the blaze themselves due to a reported lack of resources — once again raising concerns about the country’s vulnerability in responding to fires.
PM: No more talk on Moorings issue
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis has dismissed further discussion on the Bahamas Moorings controversy, declaring that the matter is closed and suggesting that no one will be held accountable for how the deal advanced without the necessary approvals.
Fire shuts down London's Heathrow Airport, disrupting travel for hundreds of thousands
A large fire near London's Heathrow Airport knocked out power Friday to Europe’s busiest flight hub, forcing it to shut and disrupting global travel for hundreds of thousands of passengers.
DIANE PHILLIPS: The never married, never need to marry - is single by choice the new normal?
When we were kids, most of the people we knew were part of a family.
Clubs & Societies March 21st, 2025
Friday, March 21, 2025
Man admits to bail violation while waiting on trial for rape charge
A HARBOUR Island man admitted yesterday to violating his bail conditions while awaiting trial for allegedly raping two female tourists in 2018.
Woman gets two months jail for injuring man with rock
A WOMAN recently released from Sandilands was sentenced to two months in prison after admitting to injuring a man with a rock on East Street last week.
Man accused of trying to touch teen girl’s privates
A man was granted bail yesterday after being accused of attempting to touch a 16-year-old girl’s private area last month in Acklins.
Young athletes break records on day one
Athletes delivered standout performances on day one of the 2025 Bahamas National High School Track and Field Championships at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
Iconique returns featuring world premiere of Bahamian ballerina Courtney Celeste Spears
THE return of Iconique – a world class ballet performance – to Old Fort Bay Club has been hailed a success.
How are we preparing our students for the workforce?
The transition from education to the workforce is a critical juncture for students, necessitating a comprehensive approach that goes beyond traditional academic instruction.
BGWU obtains court injunction halting ‘unlawful’ poll over union representation
THE Bahamas General Workers Union (BGWU) has obtained a Supreme Court injunction halting a union representation poll at the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC), arguing that Labour Minister Pia Glover-Rolle unlawfully facilitated the vote without a formal request from workers.
Man accused of attempting to undress sleeping 16-year-old boy
A man was granted bail after being accused of attempting to undress a sleeping 16-year-old boy in December.
IAN FERGUSON: The fight for food security
For many decades, the Bahamas has struggled with the issue of food security.
Kai Jones erupts for a double double in his first NBA start
THE injury-riddled Dallas Mavericks called up Bahamian big man Kai Jones to the starting role and he certainly delivered in the first start of his National Basketball Association (NBA) career against the Indiana Pacers.
DR KENT BAZARD: Crossing time zones and breaking records: Managing long travel in sports
AS the Team Physician for The Bahamas National Track & Field Team, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of long-haul travel on athletic performance
World Indoors: Olympian Wendell Miller does not advance
OLYMPIAN Wendell Miller ran a personal best, but it was just shy of him advancing to his first global individual semifinal event today at the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China.
Thursday, March 20
‘Buddy’ scores 15 off the bench to help the Warriors win
AS the Golden State Warriors’ playoff push continues in the Western Conference, Grand Bahamian National Basketball Association (NBA) pro Chavano “Buddy” Hield has put up some steady numbers off the bench.
Shannon Hanna II set to compete at NCAA Wrestling Championships
BAHAMIAN wrestler Shannon Hanna II is making his presence felt on the collegiate scene for the Campbell University Fighting Camels.
Sports calendar March 20
WITH all of the schools having completed their track and field championships, the focus of attention will now switch to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s National High School Track and Field Championships.
Strong performances for Mingoes at the NPA Invitational
THE University of The Bahamas Mingoes men and women’s track and field team turned in strong performances at the 2nd Annual Noble Preparatory Track and Field Invitational on Saturday at the Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.
03202025 EDITION
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Treasure Cay buyer in $60m equity raise
The buyer for Abaco’s Treasure Cay resort is seeking to raise its target $65m equity capital from other investors while only committing $5m of its own funds, documents have revealed.
$75,000 donated to women-led businesses
A TOTAL of $75,000 in funding was given to women-led businesses at last week’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative event at Atlantis.
DIR home VAT refunds ‘a farce’
THE Department of Inland Revenue’s (DIR) VAT refunds as part of its first home construction and renovation programme is a “farce”, according to one frustrated Bahamian.
Gov’t targets $866m slash to Bahamas’ national debt
The Government is predicting it will slash its direct debt by $866m during the three fiscal years to end-June 2028 as a result of generating three consecutive annual fiscal surpluses.
Opening bank accounts likened to ‘pulling teeth’
Businessmen yesterday voiced scepticism that 99 percent of new bank account applications are approved - often “in less than a week” - as they described the process as akin to “pulling teeth”.
No ‘cry wolf’ over US growth slash
A senior tourism executive yesterday asserted he is “not prepared to cry wolf or suggest doomsday has dawned” yet after the Federal Reserve slashed US economic growth forecasts through 2027.
PM signs new LNG Terminal Agreement
PRIME Minister Philip Davis signed two agreements today to facilitate the country’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Clifton Pier.
Man sent to prison for murder to get retrial
THE Court of Appeal has ordered a retrial for a man previously sentenced to 57 years in prison for the 2018 murder of a web shop patron, ruling that his trial was unfair because he was forced to represent himself.
Bostwick’s call for FNM unity welcomed
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard welcomed Dame Janet Bostwick’s call for the FNM to unite to defeat the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) in the next general election.
Pintard and Thompson call for more firefighting resources for GB
WITH over 50 power poles destroyed by massive bushfires that threatened many properties across East Grand Bahama, Free National Movement members of Parliament are calling for additional firefighting resources and manpower in Grand Bahama.
Police ‘still investigating’ held money one year later
ALMOST a year after alleging that police officers took $9,000 from their Marathon Estates home during what they claim was a mistaken search, Aynalel and Marvin Deveaux are still without answers — leaving Marvin, already battling severe health issues, losing hope.
Munroe: Elections chief was not fired
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said acting Parliamentary Commissioner Arthur Taylor requested reassignment to another government agency, insisting that no one from his ministry directed his removal.
STATESIDE: What motivates President Trump?
What motivates Donald Trump?
FRONT PORCH: Unity in the FNM and political parties
Political parties, like other institutions, are often fractious, disputatious, ever striving for greater unity.
Minnis: What is govt stake in Bahamas Moorings?
Former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday pushed for more information about the government’s stake in Bahamas Moorings Limited.
Op-Ed: Deepseek catching global attention
Recently, the groundbreaking artificial intelligence model DeepSeek, developed by Chinese engineers, has attracted widespread attention in the tech world.
‘Jazz’ shines again
If the New York Yankees’ spring training is any indication, Major League Baseball (MLB) pro Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr will be a force to be reckoned with at second base for the upcoming MLB season.
Lightbourne warns Cartwright against inciting fear over SpaceX
MINISTER of State for the Environment Zane Lightbourne cautioned against spreading panic over the recent SpaceX Starship explosion, urging reliance on expert assessments rather than speculation.
Minnis concerned Defence Bill amendment would allow rehiring already retired officers
AS parliamentarians debated and passed an amendment to the Defence Act, which would allow marines to serve until 60 without limitation, former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis expressed concern that the Davis administration might abuse the provision, citing its practice on rehiring retirees.
Gambling addiction awareness programme raises concerns of teens ‘drinking and throwing dice’
AS Gambling Addiction Awareness Month begins, officials are increasing efforts to address gambling and substance abuse among high school students.
Body of man found in Governor’s Harbour
POLICE in Eleuthera are investigating the discovery of the body of a male found near the vicinity of a business establishment in Governor’s Harbour yesterday.
Couple accused of assaulting each other with firearms
A COUPLE was granted bail after being accused of assaulting each other with firearms last weekend.
Man charged with breaking into police station in Andros
A MAN was granted bail after being accused of breaking into a police station in Andros last month and stealing a scooter.
Two-years jail for man admitting to having a firearm in his home
A MAN was sentenced yesterday to two years in prison after admitting to having a gun in his home in Elizabeth Estates last week.
DEIDRE BASTIAN: Why smashing ‘glass ceiling’ is so critical
The term ‘glass ceiling’ refers to an invisible but all-too-real obstacle depicting the challenges and limitations faced by a specific group of employees.
Wednesday, March 19
Rubis gets final appeal on $159k gas leak damages
Rubis (Bahamas) bid to overturn a $159,450 damages award after fuel leaks from one of its gas stations contaminated a Marathon resident’s home was yesterday cleared to proceed to a final appeal hearing.
‘Myth from reality’: 99% of account requests approved
The first-ever survey on the ease of opening a Bahamian bank account will separate “myths from realities” with more than 99 percent of applications approved in often “less than a week”.
Six months’ jail for man who beat boy with broomstick
A 22-year-old man was sentenced to six months in prison yesterday after admitting to beating his girlfriend’s seven-year-old son with a broomstick earlier this week as “discipline” for accidentally breaking a television.
US Chargé d’Affaires downplays impact of Cuba policy on Bahamas
THE top US government official in The Bahamas downplayed the impact of the Trump administration’s Cuba-related visa restriction policy on this country, framing the expansion announcement as an effort to prompt a broader inquiry into how Cuban workers are treated and paid, rather than a measure targeting The Bahamas or any local government official.
‘Justice has prevailed’, says Davis - but World Famous Valley Boys to appeal
THE Supreme Court dismissed the World Famous Valley Boys’ application for judicial review, ruling that the group had no realistic chance of success in its legal challenge against the Registrar General’s decision to remove it from the register of non-profit organisations.
Father found guilty of all five counts in incest case
A FATHER accused of sexually molesting his daughter was convicted of incest on Tuesday in the Supreme Court after jurors returned guilty verdicts on all five counts.
Election chief out after criticism
ACTING Parliamentary Registration Commissioner Arthur Taylor has been removed from his post and reassigned to another government agency.
Coast Guard rescued 166 people in Bahamian waters last year
THE US Coast Guard rescued 166 people in Bahamian waters last year, officials revealed during a port visit to New Providence.
Labour Minister and TUC chief disagree on which concerns have been addressed
LABOUR Minister Pia Glover-Rolle and Trade Union Congress (TUC) President Obie Ferguson disagree over how many of the TUC’s labour concerns have been addressed, with Mr Ferguson insisting that none has been resolved and warning that the union will take a more aggressive position.
‘More Bahamian experiences’ needed to make most of visitors
A STEADY stream of cruise passengers has seen numbers exceed those before the pandemic, according to a Bay Street businessman.
Bristol manager now top wine professional
A Bristol Wines & Spirits brand manager has become The Bahamas’ latest Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) level three certified wine professional.
‘Beware of vaping dangers’
JARED Saunders, once healthy and active, suffered severe health complications after vaping for two years—an experience he now describes as devastating.
Delays in flights after runway closure
THE closure of a major runway at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) is causing unusual delays in flight operations, according to Western Air, a leading Bahamian airline.
East Grand Bahama forest fire destroys utility poles and threatens properties
MANY residents were without power yesterday as a massive bush fire, fueled by strong winds on Monday, swept through parts of East Grand Bahama, destroying power poles and threatening properties in several subdivisions.
BNT condemns visitors seen harrassing endangered iguanas at beach in Exuma
THE Bahamas National Trust (BNT) condemned the actions of a group of visitor who were seen harassing critically endangered iguanas on Bitter Guana Cay, Exuma, after a video of the incident surfaced online.
LPIA’s ‘unusual delays’ as flights three times longer
Airlines yesterday warned travellers to brace for flights to take up to three times’ longer than normal due to “unusual delays” caused by ongoing runway repairs at The Bahamas’ major airport.
‘Opportunity for Freeport’ in fines from US ports
USING Freeport Container Port’s strategic location to receive cargo from global suppliers seeking to avoid any additional fees at US Ports would provide an opportunity to finally help the island reach its shipping potential, according to Dillon Knowles, Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president.
Treasure Cay developer names Caribbean chief
Treasure Cay’s purchaser has named Steve Griggs as development manager of its Caribbean division, which will oversee daily operations and its regional growth and expansion plans.
GBPA renews initiative to drive tech skills, careers
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has unveiled a paid remote internship initiative to build skills and careers for Bahamians in industries such as cyber security, artificial intelligence (AI) and data science.
Port unveils ‘cruisin’ green’ waste move
The Nassau Cruise Port (NCP) yesterday unveiled its ‘Cruisin’ Green’ sustainable waste management initiative as part of celebrating Global Recycling Day.
Urgent plea for blood donations in GB
HEALTH officials in Grand Bahama are urgently appealing for blood donations as Rand Memorial Hospital struggles to meet the rising demand for transfusions.
Health Ministry investigating claim a man died of food-borne illness from local restaurant
THE Ministry of Health and Wellness said it is investigating claims that a man died from a food-borne illness after eating at a local restaurant.
GB woman pleads for return of tens of thousands of dollars confiscated by police
A GRAND Bahama woman is pleading for the return of tens of thousands of dollars seized by police six months ago, insisting she provided proof of its origin and has hired an attorney to fight for its release.
Man acquitted of murder
A man was yesterday acquitted of murder and attempted murder in the trial of a fatal 2020 drive-by shooting on Hampton Street.
Three-months jail for assault of officer
A WOMAN was sentenced to three months in prison yesterday after admitting to kicking, biting, and throwing a chair at a police officer following a disturbance at a restaurant last weekend.
Two shooting incidents leave two men hospitalised Monday
POLICE are investigating two shooting incidents that occurred in New Providence on Monday, leaving two adult men injured and hospitalised.
Tuesday, March 18
Cruise port projects 59% revenue surge to $78m
Nassau Cruise Port is projecting 2025 revenues will increase by 59 percent to $78m, its top executive revealed yesterday, with passenger volumes now forecast to rise by a further 300,000 and hit 6.5m.
Mall at Marathon wants $358k from ex-Galleria chief’s estate
The Bahamas’ largest retail shopping mall is demanding $358,532 from the estate of the late Galleria Cinemas’ chief, and ex-deputy DNA leader, to settle an unpaid debt dating from before COVID-19 struck.
Minister wanting $290m hospital ‘to move faster’
A Cabinet minister says he would like New Providence’s proposed $290m hospital project “to move faster” although talks with the Chinese bank financing it are “moving in a favourable direction”.
Gov’t signs first utility-scale solar agreement for Nassau
The Government yesterday signed what is expected to be the first of several utility scale solar energy power purchase agreements (PPAs) for New Providence with Madeleine Solar Power.
‘No escape’ for Bahamas amid global recession fear
A Bahamian economist yesterday warned “there’s really no escape” for this nation with the global economy “on trajectory” for a recession due to the stock market and trade turmoil sparked by US policies
Dr Robert Blaine III announced as University’s new president
AFTER a nine-month process, the University of The Bahamas has announced the appointment of Dr Robert Blaine III as its fourth president and 13th overall leader.
Murdered man’s Family ‘struggling with his death’
A MAN who was reportedly stabbed to death at a motel last week was described yesterday as a skilled mechanic and loving father who his family cherished.
Solar power plant signing could bring over 100 jobs
BAHAMAS Power and Light (BPL) signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Madeleine Solar Power Ltd, marking a major step toward renewable energy expansion — but government officials did not disclose the cost details of the deal.
Trump budget cuts at NOAA could have impact on hurricane forecasting
THE Bahamas Department of Meteorology is already being affected by the Trump administration’s cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) budget, warning that further reductions could hamper this country’s weather forecasting capabilities — especially during the hurricane season.
UTEB ‘intensely disappointed’ with UB president selection
THE Union of Tertiary Educators of The Bahamas (UTEB) has expressed intense disappointment over the University of The Bahamas’ (UB) decision to appoint Dr Robert Blaine III as its fourth president instead of Bahamian candidate Dr Maria Woodside-Oriakhi.
FACING REALITY: Does the church exploit the poor and vulnerable?
Originally conceived as a sanctuary for the brokenhearted, the church has veered from its intended path.
Ultimate Champions bring home the title
Bahamas Baseball Federation President Clarence McKenzie said he was quite pleased with the way his Ultimate Champions Academy baseball team played at the USSSA War on I-4 Tournament in Plant City, Florida, over the weekend.
Javonya Valcourt looks ahead to outdoors
AFTER producing what she felt was a productive indoor track and field season at the University of Tennessee, the Volunteers’ junior quarter-miler Javonya Valcourt is eager to see what the outdoor season holds for her.
Georgette Rolle-Harris likes the direction the high school golf nationals is headed in
GEORGETTE Rolle-Harris said she likes the direction the Bahamas Golf Federation’s National High School Golf Tournament, sponsored by Capital Union Bank, is headed in.
PM: Cuban Labour deal to be reviewed
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said that a portion of the salaries paid to Cuban medical professionals employed by the Bahamian government is sent to an agency in Cuba, a practice he defended but said would also be reviewed.
Govt is ‘closing’ its deal with Pike Electrical, says Coleby-Davis
ENERGY Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis says the government is “closing” its deal with Pike Electrical to manage Bahamas Power and Light’s (BPL) transmission and distribution network, clearing the way for the project’s next phase.
PM launches road safety campaign with a ‘Watch the Road’ jingle and mascot
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said there were 11,157 road accidents last year, 2,234 of which resulted in injuries.
Woman and man have bail modified on charges of vehicular manslaughter
A WOMAN and a man were granted a bail variation on separate vehicular manslaughter charges yesterday, as their cases were officially transferred to the Supreme Court for trial.
Teen admits to injuring man with machete
A 16-year-old boy admitted to seriously injuring a man with a machete on Wright’s Lane last week.
Three years prison for possession of loaded gun
A MAN was sentenced to three years in prison yesterday after admitting to possessing a loaded gun on Alexandria Boulevard last weekend.
King’s fellowship applications open
Applications for the King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme (KCFP) PhD pathway are now open, providing an opportunity for individuals from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to pursue advanced academic and professional development in critical fields such as climate change, education, engineering, health, and sustainability.
A gift to bring smiles
Students at Black Point All-Age School are enjoying a newly remodelled playground, thanks to a generous donation from local investor.
PETER YOUNG: Commonwealth continues to thrive
Foreign affairs commentators in the UK press seem to be vying with one another to describe the current state of the world in the most extreme terms.
Empowerment clubs visit GG
Students from LW Young Junior High School’s Boys and Girls Empowerment Clubs recently paid a courtesy visit to Governor General Dame Cynthia Pratt at Government House.
Bahamas taking STEP to financial services growth
The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Bahamas branch discussed emerging trends, regulatory developments and financial services innovations during its annual conference last week.
Low-cost carrier to launch Carolinas to Nassau route
A US low-cost airline is making The Bahamas its fourth international destination with the launch of non-stop service between Nassau and Raleigh-Durham on 11 June.
Fishing feedback sought on marine protected areas
The Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG), in partnership with The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), is seeking input from Family Islands fishermen on the impact of marine protected areas (MPAs).
Bahamian named to key role with global standards body
A senior executive with the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) has been appointed to a key post with its global watchdog counterpart.
Monday, March 17
‘Not panicking yet’ over fears of huge shipping cost hike
Bahamian businesses are “not panicking yet” over fears this nation and the wider Caribbean will be “devastated” by potential container shipping cost increases worth thousands of dollars due to US policy changes.
Freeport can ‘fill void’ on US China ship fee
Calls have been made for the Freeport Container Port to “fill the void” and enable The Bahamas and wider Caribbean to escape the US threat to levy up to $1m per port call by Chinese-made ships.
Bahamians ‘paying rent in own home’ over fee switch
Bahamians are “now paying rent in their own home” as a result of the revised air services navigation fees being proposed by the Government-owned regulator, an aviation industry veteran is arguing.
Pintard accuses govt of forcing GB officers from provided housing without alternatives
FREE National Movement Leader Michael Pintard has accused the government of forcing dozens of police officers in Grand Bahama out of government-provided housing with little time to secure alternative accommodations.
‘Mother of two was not suicidal’, says source close to the family
JUST moments before a car crash claimed her life, 23-year-old Shyann Pierre was on her way to pick up her children from a loved one who had been babysitting them.
North Abaco bush fire destroys vacant club
DAYS after spending $10,000 on repairs for his vacant Abaco nightclub, Omar Bodie watched on a video call from Grand Bahama as the building burned down.
‘Pray for Archbishop’ as he fights battle against cancer
ARCHBISHOP Drexel Gomez, the former head of the Anglican Church in the West Indies, has been hospitalised and diagnosed with cancer.
Mitchell: Bahamians air concern at US treatment
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said Bahamians complain weekly to his ministry about the immigration policies of the United States of America and the “tone and manner” in which local US Embassy personnel treat them.
Officials ‘concerned’ as suicides reach 2023’s total
THE Bahamas has recorded six suicides less than three months into the year –– already matching 2023’s total and surpassing half of last year’s total of eight.
MPs reveal who filed disclosures
THE Free National Movement (FNM) said that all its parliamentarians met this year’s deadline for filing financial disclosures under the Public Disclosure Act.
INSIGHT: Navigating a new frontier with keen responsibility
The recent failed test flight of SpaceX’s Starship rocket has sparked conversation and understandable concern amongst Bahamians.
KDK REPORT: Lessons never learned
IN 1492 when Christopher Columbus landed in the islands of The Bahamas, there was an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 Arawak Indians called Lucayans already inhabiting the region.
Windsor defends golf titles
The Bahamas Golf Federation’s 2025 Capital Union Bank National High School Golf Championships ended with Windsor School successfully defending their titles in three of the four team divisions.
A star is rising for The Bahamas in tennis
YOUNG, up and coming tennis phenom Khai Rees has been invited to play in his first professional tennis tournament at the age of 17.
A salute to MPs following the law
WE would like to salute a number of parliamentarians in today’s editorial – for doing as the law asks of them.
Don't forget the needs of our men
Have you noticed that when we discuss gender affairs, the focus is always on women and children, as if men are not the other gender who require attention for the challenges they face?
We must act now to end violence
HOW much more blood must be spilled before we finally say, enough is enough?
Carnival ‘too big an event for govt not to get involved’, says Tirelli
BAHAMAS Carnival Band Owners Association chairman Dario Tirelli said he is disappointed that the Ministry of Tourism is not helping to subsidise Bahamas Carnival, arguing that the festival needs at least $250,000 in government support annually.
Severe weather causes flight delays over the weekend
FLIGHTS from Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) were disrupted over the weekend as severe weather in Florida caused delays for travellers heading to and from The Bahamas.
Minister: ‘Four prong’ strategy is paying off
A Cabinet minister says the Government’s “balanced four-prong” economic and fiscal strategy has enabled it to “minimise the tax burden” and avoid imposing new and/or increased levies on the Bahamian people.
Minister says ‘world turning upside down’
A Cabinet minister says The Bahamas must further strengthen its public finances, reduce the leakage of tourism dollars and diversify supply chains to withstand the fall-out from US trade and tariff policies.
‘Look in own backyard’ on financial crime, US urged
The Government has united with local businessmen and financial services executives in urging the US to “look in your own backyard” before blasting The Bahamas over alleged anti-financial crime deficiencies.
$200m Rosewood’s developer: We and Turtlegrass can co-exist
The developer behind the $200m Rosewood project for Exuma says it believes itself and a neighbouring resort can “co-exist” despite accusing the latter of spreading “misinformation” about its development.
Development Bank expands financing for electric vehicles
The Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) has expanded its eco-friendly transportation drive by teaming with ICON Bahamas to offer businesses 100 percent financing for their electric car purchases.
Doctors Hospital unveils stock split
Doctors Hospital says it is today unveiling a two-for-one (2:1) stock split to boost liquidity in its stock and make the price more accessible and affordable for retail investors.
Environmental activist renews concerns over mangrove destruction in Grand Bahama
ENVIRONMENTAL activist Captain Daniel Murray is raising concerns over renewed bulldozing and land clearing at a site off Queen’s Highway, where mangroves are being threatened.
Man faces charges of indecent assault and cruelty to children
A 31-year-old man appeared before the Magistrate’s Court on charges of indecent assault and cruelty to children.
Development company makes donation of medical equipment to clinic in Exuma
A COMPANY developing a luxury resort in Exuma has donated medical equipment to support a temporary clinic while the local healthcare facility undergoes repairs.
Junior Anthaya Charlton fourth in long jump
ANTHAYA Charlton, preparing for her first World Indoor Championships this weekend, led a trio of Bahamians in action at the National College Athletic Association’s Indoor Championships over the weekend.
‘Junkanoo Beach Boyz’ fourth overall in Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship
THE Bahamas men’s national beach soccer team saw their storybook run come to an anticlimactic finish yesterday evening at the 2025 CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship hosted at the Malcolm Park Beach Soccer Facility.
Stingrays stun Knights to win second GSSSA track and field trophy
THE CV Bethel Stingrays stunned the CR Walker Knights to derail their eighth consecutive title defence at the 2025 Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) Track and Field Championship hosted at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
Swimmers qualify for CARIFTA at Last Chance Meet
BAHAMAS Aquatics held its Last Chance Meet over the weekend at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex with several swimmers ensuring that they put in their bid for selection to the CARIFTA swim team.
36-member swimming team selected for the Carifta games
WITH a 36-member team selected, all attaining the qualifying standards, Bahamas Aquatics’ president Algernon Cargill said the Bahamas is poised to go to Trinidad & Tobago and capture its seventh straight CARIFTA Swimming Championship title.
Saturday, March 15
Psychiatrist points to rising sense of hopelessness after man found hanging at home
A MAN in his 20s was found hanging at a home in Star Estates off Prince Charles Drive on Friday, making the country’s fifth alleged suicide this year.
Friday, March 14
Police investigate man's death after construction site accident
Police have launched an investigation after a 38-year-old man died in hospital from injuries he allegedly sustained at a construction site today.
VAT food cut runs ‘counter’ to farm policy
The Government’s 50 percent VAT rate slash on imported unprepared foods will place Bahamian farmers at “a serious disadvantage” and is counter to its sector policy, an agricultural entrepreneur argued yesterday.
‘Caught in the crossfire’: GB Power hit by rate rise delay
Grand Bahama Power Company is suffering a “very real impact” from the delay in reviewing and approving its proposed new rate structure after getting “caught in the crossfire”, it was disclosed yesterday.
Summit at peak strength despite ‘negative’ outlook
A Bahamian insurer yesterday said it is targeting “non-catastrophe” business lines for growth in a bid to escape continued reinsurance pricing pressures that have impacted recent profits and operating results.
Anti-financial crime legal reforms ready pre-Budget
The Attorney General yesterday said legal reforms to assist with the next international evaluation of The Bahamas’ anti-crime defences will be tabled in Parliament before the May Budget unveiling.
Judge rules to allow key witness in murder trial to testify anonymously
A JUDGE has ruled that a key witness in the retrial of Bruce Colebrooke for the 2012 murder of Aboyami Sargent will testify anonymously, despite objections from the accused.
Split feelings on the future of Carnival
INTRODUCED with great fanfare in 2015, Carnival in The Bahamas was meant to establish itself as a staple on the country’s cultural calendar.
‘I found space rocket debris on the beach’, says islander
A RAGGED Island resident said he found debris from a SpaceX Starship rocket along the beach on Tuesday afternoon while on the shoreline with his daughter.
Defence attorney accuses Water and Sewerage chief of ‘being a criminal’
A DEFENCE attorney in the criminal trial of Adrian Gibson and others yesterday accused Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) General Manager Robert Deal of “being a criminal” and suggested that he had turned a blind eye to an alleged conflict of interest involving a landscaping contract awarded to the daughter of former WSC chairman Sylvanus Petty.
Father’s alleged voice notes express remorse over molesting daughter
THE Supreme Court heard voice recordings allegedly of a father accused of incest, in which he appeared to apologise to his daughter for years of alleged sexual abuse and molestation.
Govt asked to clarify how cuban workers are paid
THE Bahamian government may be required to prove that Cuban workers in The Bahamas receive their salaries directly, rather than through the Cuban government, as the United States threatens to expand visa restrictions to foreign officials involved in Cuba’s labour export programme.
Bahamas ‘a haven for finance crime'
THE US government is asserting that The Bahamas “lacks... political will” to fully crack down on financial crime with this nation representing a “low risk” haven for fraudsters and corrupt individuals.
Man accused of indecent assault and cruelty to children
A 31-YEAR-OLD man appeared before the Magistrate’s Courts for indecent assault and cruelty to children charges.
DIANE PHILLIPS: When did we stop being Little Nassau or Funky Nassau and just become Tacky Nassau?
Humans are amazing creatures.
Clubs & Societies March 14th, 2025
The Anglican Church Men (ACM) of the Diocese of The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos has announced the establishment of the Tomas McIntosh Young Committed Leader Award through a unanimous motion.
ERIC WIBERG: Wrecks in the Exumas
The former mailboat Exuma Pride began her career as His Majesty’s Ship LCG(M)192 before becoming Hjelmeland Fjord in Norway in 1949; she was built in Middlesborough, England in October, 1944.
Fort Fincastle vendors to relocate as repairs at water tower continue
THE government has announced a four-month closure of Fort Fincastle to facilitate repairs to the water tower, forcing straw vendors at the historic site to temporarily relocate to Fort Charlotte.
Fleming Street murder victim was provider for three kids and his mom
EDWARD Thompson Jr, a 27-year-old single father, was the primary caretaker for his mother, who suffers from heart disease, when he was murdered Tuesday night on Fleming Street.
Congrats to Pauline Davis
Golden Girl Pauline Davis is being inducted into an international Hall of Fame for athletes and no one I have ever met in the field of sports deserves it more.
‘Lunch and Learn’ event for International Women’s Day
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Colina Insurance Limited hosted a special Lunch and Learn event for its staff, focused on financial empowerment for women.
30 years to celebrate for Cable Bahamas
CABLE Bahamas is celebrating 30 years of service in The Bahamas.
AG reveals IP regulations set for roll-out next week
The Attorney General yesterday said regulations to accompany and enforce The Bahamas’ intellectual property rights reforms will be issued next week.
Contrast therapy: The best of both worlds for athletic recovery
ATHLETES are constantly looking for ways to recover faster, reduce soreness, and keep their bodies in peak condition.
Prison worker on probation after pleading guilty to drug possession
A PRISON worker was placed on probation yesterday after admitting to having $180 worth of marijuana last week.
17-year-old on pending armed robbery charge accused of stealing a vehicle
A 17-year-old man with a pending armed robbery charge was remanded to Simpson Penn Centre for Boys yesterday after being accused of stealing a car.
Man accused of injuring brother in fight
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of injuring his brother during a physical altercation on Woodland Road last weekend.
Straw vendors ‘pray and hope’ over US tariff fight
Straw vendors were yesterday said to be bracing for a drop-off in visitor numbers and reduced tourism business due to the uncertainty created by US trade and economic policy.
Companies registry boost via April platform launch
The Attorney General yesterday said the companies registry will launch an integrated platform in April that will allow financial and corporate services providers to manage their businesses more efficiently.
‘Build the economy’ through permanent residency reform
A prominent realtor is urging The Bahamas to reform permanent residency by launching a ‘Start-Up Visa’ programme as a tool that “builds the economy”.
Annual Bahamas inflation rate falls flat in December
The Bahamas’ annual inflation rate was flat in December 2024 to end a run of five consecutive months where it declined year-over-year, official data has disclosed.
More than 500 sign petition opposing $200m Rosewood
More than 500 persons are said to have signed a petition launched by a consultant to a rival resort project urging the Government to protect Exuma’s marine ecosystems from the $200m Rosewood development.
‘Junkanoo Beach Boyz’ beat T&T 5-4
The home crowd at the Malcolm Park Beach Soccer Facility got a real treat last night as the Bahamas men’s national beach soccer team knocked off Trinidad & Tobago 5-4 to advance to the semifinals of the 2025 Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship.
Sharks claim their first GSSSA Track & Field title
THE year of upsets in track and field continued yesterday at the 2025 Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) Track and Field Championships hosted at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
Who will be crowned golf champions in the high school divisions?
WHILE the national junior golf champions have already been decided, it will come down to the final day of competition to determine who will be crowned the champions in the high school divisions.
Baark! Powerade Potcakeman Triathlon All Set for March 30 at Jaws Beach
THE countdown is on for the 12th Annual Baark! Powerade Potcakeman Triathlon, set to take place on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Jaws Beach.
Thursday, March 13
Donte Armbrister and his teammate named Conference ‘Doubles Team of the Week’
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) congratulates Donte Armbrister and his teammate Marko StoilKovski on being named Conference “Doubles Team Of The Week”.
GSSSA Track & Field: Raptors, Stingrays in lead on day 1
DAY one of the 2025 Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) Track and Field Championships was a successful one for both the CV Bethel Stingrays and the CH Reeves Raptors in the senior and junior divisions respectively.
‘Junkanoo Beach Boyz’ beat USA 3-2
The Bahamas senior men’s national beach soccer team bounced back from an opening night loss last night at the 2025 CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championship at the Malcolm Park Beach Soccer Stadium.
Baha Mar: RevPAR down through all Q1 with rates sacrificed
Baha Mar is sacrificing rates and yield to drive 2025 first quarter business volumes, its president revealed yesterday, with plans to “invest north of $38m” in upgrading and refreshing its product this year.
Bahamasair Exuma ‘hiccup’ drops Family Island growth
Airline ticket bookings for Family Island travel between February and July 2025 would be up 12 percent year-over-year if George Town and the Bahamasair “hiccup” are not included, it was revealed yesterday.
Capo accuses Genting of ‘cooking the books’
Resorts World Bimini’s original developer has doubled down on claims that its Genting partner “cooked the books” in such a way as to “effectively wipe out” its $25m equity investment in the project.
‘Uncertain’ times for world, warns PM
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the world is currently facing a period of “uncertainty” due to economic instability, geopolitical realignments, and shifting power dynamics.
STATESIDE: The frenetic pace of change under Trump
The pace and content of change in Washington DC is certainly striking these days.
Woman accused of assaulting two females with her vehicle
A WOMAN was granted bail after allegedly assaulting two women with her vehicle on Hospital Lane earlier this week.
Govt efforts ongoing to return public school immunisation requirements to normal post-COVID
EDUCATION director Dominique McCartney-Russell said immunisation requirements for students registering in the public school system were relaxed during the COVID pandemic, but since last year, efforts have been made to return to normal protocols.
Man of Haitian descent and parents accused of fraudulently obtaining Bahamas passport
A MAN of Haitian descent and his parents were granted bail yesterday after being accused of fraudulently obtaining a Bahamian passport and a National Insurance card.
‘We will not be dictated to, and we will not be sidelined’
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis pledged that The Bahamas will navigate emerging trade challenges, including potential tariff wars, through intentional trade diversification during his keynote address at the RF Bahamas Economic Outlook Conference at Baha Mar yesterday.
Chlamydia rise sparks alert on sex infections
HEALTH officials are raising alarms about a sharp increase in chlamydia cases that experts warn, if left unaddressed, could lead to a rise in other STIs and HIV.
Pinder: Govt conducted due diligence before agreement on SpaceX landings
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder defended the Davis administration’s agreement with SpaceX amid concerns raised over a failed rocket launch last week that scattered debris across parts of the Bahamas.
Man found hanged in suspected suicide
POLICE suspect a man committed suicide last night on Royal Palm Street.
Exuma residents call on govt to resolve developer dispute
HUNGRY for jobs and community development, Exuma residents at a town hall meeting Tuesday night brushed aside a wealthy developer’s environmental complaints concerning a nearby project but questioned why the Davis administration wasn’t getting more involved in resolving the dispute.
Being prepared in a quickly changing world
AN ARRAY of speakers yesterday took the stage at the RF Business Outlook event.
Families reflect on sacrifice and renewal during Lent
As Lent begins, families across The Bahamas are embracing a season of reflection, sacrifice, and spiritual growth.
‘Downtown would shut if not for cruise lines’
WITHOUT the traffic generated by cruise lines, Downtown Nassau would be closed, according to the owner of EF Consultants, Ed Fields.
Team Bahamas named for World Athletics indoors
THE Bahamas will be represented by a five-member contingent at the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships slated for March 21-23 in Nanjing, China.
Charged with possession of gun and ammo
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of having a loaded gun in the area of Virginia and Augusta Streets earlier this week.
FRONT PORCH: Where shopping is not a pleasure!
Scores of Bahamians have shopped over the decades at the Publix Food and Pharmacy grocery stores.
Pintard in bind over Minnis
LINCOLN Bain’s Coalition of Independents has ratified 28 candidates since September 2024.
Bothered by ‘ugly’ billboards
MORE UGLINESS! Boy we seem to like ugly!
Glover-Rolle hopeful negotiations with CPSA conclude soon despite delays
DESPITE the government’s repeated assurances that negotiations with doctors are progressing, the Consultant Physicians Staff Association (CPSA) is still waiting for officials to follow through.
Man charged with assault of woman with intent to rape
A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after being accused of assaulting a woman with intent to rape her last week.
Golden Isles MP celebrates Commonwealth Day with a message of unity and growth
Students across The Bahamas joined in celebrating Commonwealth Day under the theme “Together We Thrive.”
Deaconess celebrates 70 years
Pastor Stephen Smith and the Ebenezer family in Farmer’s Hill, Exuma, recently celebrated the 70th birthday of Deaconess Bernese Rolle Marshall during their worship service.
Installation of Saint George’s Anglican Church Vestry
Saint George’s Anglican Church recently held the vestry installation service for the new church wardens and other vestry members.
Prayer service at Rawson Square
The nation was called to pray as Dr Patricia Johnson Pratt, founder of The Prayers and Inspiration Network, hosted a prayer service for inviting Bahamians to join together in Rawson Square on Sunday.
Former US advisor hails Trump policy on tariffs
A FORMER Deputy National Security Advisor of the United States said US President Donald Trump is leveraging the country’s economic position to ensure it benefits from any agreement struck with foreign countries.
Wednesday, March 12
FINCO pays out $57m dividends in 12 months
A BISX-listed mortgage lender declared a combined $57.333m in dividend payouts to shareholders during the 12 months to end-January 2025, its latest annual report has revealed.
Triple-digit retroactive airline fee increase ‘absolutely nuts’
The triple-digit retroactive fee hikes being imposed on Bahamian airlines and other carriers were yesterday branded “absolutely nuts” by the ex-Cabinet minister who first introduced the charging scheme.
Judge in ‘pitfall’ warning over attorneys acting for both sides
A Supreme Court judge has issued a warning about the “pitfalls” and “classic dangers” that result when one attorney represents both buyer and seller in the same real estate deal.
Tourism bids to ‘capitalise’ on anti-Trump sentiments
Bahamian tourism executives yesterday revealed they plan to “capitalise” on anti-Trump sentiment to attract more visitors from Canada and non-US markets as the industry “pushes close” to 2024 business volumes.
Royal Caribbean pledges: ‘We’ll work with Toby if he wins appeal’
Royal Caribbean’s top Bahamian executive yesterday pledged the cruise giant will work with a local entrepreneur if the Privy Council upholds his Crown Land lease for an adjacent Paradise Island site.
Gov't to review US visa restriction policy over Cuban workers
Prime Minister Philip Davis today firmly rejected any implications of forced labor practices within The Bahamas following The Tribune's reporting on the US' expanded Cuba-related visa restriction policy.
ALICIA WALLACE: The International Women’s Day march is over. Now, what’s being done on the issues?
International Women’s Day has, once again, come and gone.
Fetus remains found in bag on Paradise Island
THE remains of a fetus were found in a bag yesterday by an employee of the Ocean Club Golf Course and Estates while clearing debris from the water at a marina dock.
Alarm over vaccination rates as measles cases rise in the us
THE BAHAMAS is at risk of measles, a health expert has warned, because of a drop in the vaccination rate below the levels needed for herd immunity.
Man shot dead in 17th killing of the year
POLICE launched an investigation into the country’s 17th homicide of the year after a man in his late 20s was fatally shot on Fleming Street last night.
Family wants answers over police shooting
THE distraught sister of 32-year-old Valentino Seymour, who was killed in a police-involved shooting last month, is struggling to believe the police’s version of events and wants the Coroner’s Court to fast-track the case so her family can get the answers they need.
Man accused of fire death: I was beaten by police
A MAN accused of murdering a Haitian national whose body was found in a burned building on Wulff Road last month claims police beat him in custody, causing injuries that made him urinate blood.
US visa risk over Cuban workers
THE United States is threatening to revoke visas for foreign government officials such as those in The Bahamas involved in Cuba’s labour export programme.
Making the most of the Bahamian sunshine
IN an effort to get more Bahamians sensitised to the increasing demand for solar energy, Techsystems Solar HVAC has completed its second training programme.
Bahamas falls 4-3 to Panama on penalties
The opening match of the 2025 Concacaf Beach Soccer Championship did not go as planned for the “Junkanoo Beach Boyz” last night at the Malcolm Park Beach Soccer Stadium.
Bahamian insurers have financial strength affirmed
Two Bahamian insurance providers have seen their financial strength and creditworthiness reaffirmed by the industry’s main global credit rating agency.
Five years on - Sands reflects on when COVID hit our nation
FIVE years after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic, former Health Minister Dr Duane Sands is reflecting on the initial response to the crisis, acknowledging both the successes and the missteps of the Minnis administration.
Darville: No problem over supplies and payments
HEALTH and Wellness Minister Dr Michael Darville has refuted claims made by Free National Movement chairman Dr Duane Sands regarding medication shortages and vendor payments within the public healthcare system.
Consultation promised over free medicine expansion
HEALTH Minister Dr Michael Darville insisted that doctors, pharmacists, and all stakeholders will be consulted as the government transitions to provide free medication for chronic non-communicable diseases to people registered with the National Health Insurance Authority.
Royal Caribbean: Bahamas’ exclusive ship’s full occupancy
Royal Caribbean yesterday hailed its all-Bahamian itinerary cruise ship as a “smashing success”.
Health ministry recruiting Ghana nurses
THE Ministry of Health and Wellness is recruiting 35 specialty nurses and several doctors from Ghana to address the country’s ongoing shortage of healthcare workers, according to Health Minister Dr Michael Darville.
Full statement from US Embassy on Cuba-related visa restriction policy
On February 25, Secretary Rubio announced expansion of a Cuba related visa restriction policy that targets those who facilitate Cuban forced labor.
PETER YOUNG: Wake-up call for Europe
It has been interesting this week to study the recent UK media reaction to the continuing precipitate series of actions taken by the newly-installed US President Donald Trump in a variety of domestic areas as well as foreign affairs.
Man says he can’t pay $5k fine for firearm offences
A MAN fined for firearm-related offences yesterday told the court he couldn’t pay because he couldn’t afford it.
Psychological tests for accused housebreaker
A WOMAN was remanded to Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre for psychological evaluation after being accused of breaking into a home on Toote Shop Corner last week.
‘Pay back victim’ for stolen bike
A MAN has been ordered to fully reimburse a victim after admitting to stealing their motorcycle last weekend.
Eleuthera businesses bemoan BPL outages
Eleuthera businesses are planning to seek recovery of losses and damages from Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) as power outages continue to plague the island.
What would you add to the video game hall of fame?
This year’s finalists for the World Video Game Hall of Fame include trailblazers in esports, electronic pets and portable gaming, as well as the arcade favorite brought to life in a 1998 episode of “Seinfeld”.
‘Buddy’ jumps ahead of Gordon on NBA All-Time 3s list
GRAND Bahamian sharpshooter Chavano “Buddy” Hield and the Golden State Warriors are certainly trending in the right direction since acquiring National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat just before the trade deadline in February.
Eva Hilton Shockers repeat as National Primary Schools golf champions
THE Eva Hilton Shockers repeated as the National Primary Schools Golf Championship public schools boys’ and girls’ champions.
Two-day Music & Heritage Festival set for weekend
The two-day Bahamian Music & Heritage Festival will return to the Regatta Site in George Town, Exuma, on March 14-15 for its annual celebration of this nation’s culture and traditions.
Contractors back president on non-US goods sourcing
Other construction firms yesterday backed assertions by the Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president that the industry does not need government assistance in sourcing materials.
Tuesday, March 11
‘Sabotage’: Aviation chief blasts $1m retroactive fees
Hitting Bahamian airlines and other carriers that serve this nation with $1m-plus retroactive fee demands is “akin to sabotaging the industry”, a senior aviation executive warned yesterday.
Contractor chief: We don’t need Gov’t help in sourcing materials
The Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday said the industry does not need the Government’s help to source materials outside the US, adding: “We’ve been doing this for 30-40 years.”
PM challenges Opposition over economy’s recovery
The Prime Minister yesterday challenged Michael Pintard, the Opposition’s leader, to state if he believes the economy has recovered from COVID during a politically-charged end to the mid-year Budget debate.
Free drugs expansion ‘ain’t no pie in the sky’
A Cabinet minister yesterday said “new revenue” is not required to finance an expansion of free medicine for Bahamians with chronic non-communicable diseases, as he asserted: “This ain’t no pie in the sky.”
Opposition: Does Hutchison port exit also involve DevCo?
The Opposition yesterday pressed the Government on whether CK Hutchison Holdings’ plans to sell its interests in the Freeport Container Port and Freeport Harbour Company also include its real estate holdings.
Teenage woman in reported suicide attempt
A teenaged woman allegedly attempted suicide on Sunday by ingesting medication and alcohol.
Rise in demand for social services help
SOCIAL Services Minister Myles Laroda said there has been increasing demand for food, rental, and burial aid assistance.
Grandmother killed in Abaco crash
AN Abaco family is devastated after 57-year-old Madjorie Mills, a cherished mother and grandmother, was killed in a car accident on her way home from work last week.
Barber’s death classed as murder
AFTER months of uncertainty surrounding the death of a popular barber, Jamesly Richmond, police have now classified his case as a murder and charged a man in connection with his killing.
‘We want justice’ after two murdered
THE grief-stricken families of Carlos Rolle and Jaidyn Henfield — two young men killed within hours of each other over the weekend — are seeking answers and justice, with one family claiming Rolle was mistakenly targeted and the other believing jealousy may have led to Henfield’s death.
Road project after Yamacraw Beach death
A PEDESTRIAN awareness project has been launched in honour of a young mother who died after her car plunged into the sea off Yamacraw Beach earlier this month.
Young dancers get a peek behind scenes at ballet
YOUNG dancers got to see professional ballet stars up close and personal last week during the build-up to the Iconique performance at Old Fort Bay Club.
‘My year-long battle with taxman over $14,000’
A YEAR after paying nearly $14,000 in property taxes, an Eleuthera homeowner is embroiled in a dispute with the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR), claiming the agency has failed to recognise his payment.
Court told owning seized guns was an ‘act of war’
A PROSECUTOR called the possession of weapons seized during a major firearm bust in Bain Town last week an “act of war”, while the lawyer for the two men charged with the offence described them as “pillars of the community”.
No word on local govt for New Providence
THE Davis administration has not indicated it will fulfil its pre-election promise to introduce local government to New Providence.
‘Junkanoo Boyz’ to face Panama tonight
With all of the final pieces in place, it’s only a matter of time before the first whistle is blown to signal the start of the Concacaf 2025 Beach Soccer Championships.
Pintard calls for transparency over govt’s SpaceX dealings
FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard has urged the government to be more transparent about its dealings with SpaceX following the discovery and recovery of debris from a SpaceX Starship rocket that broke apart mid-flight on March 6.
Robbery accused behind bars
A MAN was remanded to custody yesterday after being accused of robbing another man at gunpoint of $6,000 in cash outside his residence in The Grove last week.
Making a splash with BREEF
The Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) kicked off its first public beach activity of the year with a snorkel event at Sea Beach Promenade on West Bay Street, engaging the local community in marine conservation.
Junior Achievers help out families in need
Junior Achievement (JA) Grand Bahama Shipyard Squad made a generous donation of food items to the Urban Renewal Commission last month to help needy families in Grand Bahama.
Major roadside garages ‘have agreed to move’
ENVIRONMENT and Natural Resources Minister Vaughn Miller said major roadside garages on Joe Farrington Road, Soldier Road, and Augusta Street have agreed to relocate to the Gladstone Road area.
Fined for missing bail check-in
A MAN awaiting trial for murder was fined after admitting he failed to check in at his local police station, violating his bail conditions.
FACING REALITY: We’re nothing more than two-bit hustlers
“Neither a borrower nor a lender be” is advice from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. It suggests it’s best to avoid lending and borrowing money to maintain financial independence and avoid potential conflicts.
Businesses fear child leave extension strain
Businesses yesterday voiced fears that proposed labour law reforms concerning paternity and maternity leave may impose additional strain by increasing already-high operating costs.
UB graduates ready to ease nursing shortage
A Cabinet minister yesterday said newly-graduated nurses from the University of the Bahamas (UB) will help to ease shortages of trained staff on Family Islands.
Parents urged to play a more pivotal role in the lives of their children
PARENTS are being urged to play a more pivotal role in the lives of their children as they participate in the 31st annual Government Secondary Schools Sports Association Track and Field Championships.
Minister Bowleg excited about High School Track & Field Nationals
IN a joint collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg said they are excited about the SuperClubs Breezes National High School Track and Field Championships.
Pauline Davis to be inducted into hall of fame
‘GOLDEN girl’ Pauline Davis, the first female athlete in the Caribbean to win an individual and relay gold medal at the same Olympic Games, will be rewarded with her introduction into the Bob Hayes 25th Hall of Fame.
‘VJ’ Edgecombe voted Big 12’s top freshman
BIMINI native Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe capped off his initial regular season with the Baylor Bears men’s basketball team by earning the Big 12 Freshman of the Year award.
Monday, March 10
03102025 HOME BUYER'S GUIDE
Monday, March 10, 2025
Police warn against making false threats after Doctor’s Hospital bomb scare
POLICE warned the public against making false threats after a bomb scare at Doctor’s Hospital forced dozens to evacuate on Friday afternoon.
‘Crucial’ evidence in incest case is missing
THE Supreme Court heard on Friday that crucial evidence collected by a police investigator in an incest case against a father accused of sexually abusing his ten-year-old daughter is missing.
Junkyard fire brought under control overnight
FIREFIGHTERS battled through the night on Saturday to contain a massive blaze near the city dump, which sent thick smoke billowing across New Providence and was visible from every part of the island for hours.
‘Scrambled eggs’: Mass imports counter to agriculture objective
A Bahamian farming advocate has described the Government’s agriculture policy as akin to “scrambled eggs” with last week’s mass importation of cheap eggs running counter to efforts to boost local production.
Bahamian airlines hit with up to $1m ‘retroactive’ fees
Bahamian-owned airlines have been hit with demands for up to $1m-plus in retroactive fees that have caused some to question if they “can survive” in an increasingly hostile environment.
Ex-minister: Four-fold free drugs expansion ‘surreal’
A former health minister yesterday asserted that the Government’s promise of free medicines for 160,000 Bahamians with chronic non-communicable diseases is “surreal” given its struggles to pay existing bills.
Two murdered in weekend shootings
Two men were murdered in separate shooting incidents in the Munson Village and Kennedy Subdivision areas, becoming the 14th and 15th homicides of the year, according to The Tribune’s records.
Commissioner of Police: Brutality happens but sometimes exaggerated
POLICE Commissioner Shanta Knowles believes concerns about police brutality are sometimes exaggerated, though she acknowledged that instances of excessive force sometimes do occur.
Changes to workers’ leave could be ‘recipe for disaster’
DAYS after government announced plans to roll out major labour reforms this year, including extended maternity leave, Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation President Leo Rolle said that while the proposed reforms “may sound good” in theory, economic impact assessments must be conducted before implementation.
Govt slammed over expanded NHI plan
THE Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association (BPA) slammed the government’s announcement of a plan to expand free medication coverage under the National Health Insurance (NHI) programme, calling it “insane” for lacking key details on cost, logistics, and stakeholder consultation.
GAIN AN EDGE – Dual enrolment: A pathway to earning college credits
Few students can boast of earning college credits while still in high school. Ansellia Ferguson is one of them.
Go further than the law by developing ethical culture
A company’s ethics must extend beyond its regulatory requirements. An integral part of this process is establishing a culture of integrity, transparency and accountability in decision-making.
Women’s Sports Symposium inspires the next generation of young girls
IN honour of International Women’s Day, the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture (MOYSC) hosted a Women’s Sports Symposium on Friday to celebrate Bahamian women who have actively paved the way and are currently leading the charge in sports.
Paul Greene and Penmen repeat as champions
GRAND Bahamian Paul Greene helped the second seeded Southern New Hampshire University Penmen to their second consecutive Northeastern 10 Championship Tournament title.
Queen’s College Comets win title
Last season the Queen’s College Comets had to watch in disappointment as the St Augustine’s College (SAC) Big Red Machine relished in championship glory to close out the 2025 Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) Track and Field Championships.
Chamber chief queries if DevCO sale to follow port and harbour exits
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president has questioned whether Hutchison Whampoa’s imminent exit from its port and harbour assets will also spark the sale of its Bahamian real estate holdings.
Alex Eneas signs with the New York Mets
A DREAM envisioned in his mind a decade ago when he started playing finally became a reality when Alexander ‘Alex’ Eneas signed a professional baseball contract with the New Yorks Mets’ organisation on Saturday night.
‘Coach Yo’ and Ole Miss Rebels are eliminated
THE run in the 2025 Southeastern Conference Women’s Basketball Tournament for Grand Bahamian coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin and her University of Mississippi Lady Rebels ended on Friday night in Greensville, South Carolina.
Police officers prepare to take grievances to Commissioner of Police
A lawyer representing police officers has said they are preparing to take their grievances to the Commissioner of Police over forced early retirement and denied vacation entitlements.
Debris from SpaceX rocket that exploded has been recovered as govt assesses potential risks posed
DEBRIS from a SpaceX Starship rocket that broke apart mid-flight on March 6 has been located and recovered in The Bahamas, with officials conducting environmental assessments to determine whether the fragments pose any risks, the Office of the Prime Minister said yesterday.
McCartney: FNM would be foolish to not let Minnis run on their ticket
FORMER Democratic National Alliance leader Branville McCartney said the Free National Movement would be “foolish” not to let Dr Hubert Minnis run on its ticket, urging party members to set aside personal differences and focus on winning the next election.
INSIGHT: Govt’s weak response over rocket explosion
I PROMISED a return to local issues last week after the Ukraine-US debacle – and yet then we see an interruption from space!
Woman accused of stabbing police in chest
A WOMAN was granted bail on Friday after being accused of stabbing a police officer last week while he tried to break up a bar fight.
Trial date over voice note probe to be set at end of March due to busy courts
FORMER Chief Superintendent of Police Michael Johnson, attorney Bjorn Ferguson, and Police Sergeant 3726 Deangelo Rolle were informed on Friday that their trial date for bribery charges will be set later this month.
Delay in trial of officers charged with killing Evans
TWO police officers facing manslaughter charges over the 2018 killing of 20-year-old Deangelo Evans in Mason’s Addition were told on Friday that the setting of their trial date has been delayed until late March.
Attempted murder accused denied bail due to prior drug charges
A MAN accused of a near-fatal drive-by shooting of a woman in Eleuthera last November was denied bail last week after a judge found he had seven prior drug infractions.
Foot Fest initiative treats nearly 1,000 people for a variety of conditions
NEARLY 1,000 people were treated, and ten critical surgeries were performed this month through the Ministry of Health’s efforts to provide free healthcare services to those suffering from foot issues related to diabetes or other health conditions before the Foot Fest initiative ended on Friday.
WORLD VIEW: If Guyana’s President Ali is the ‘Zelensky of the Caribbean’, who is the Putin?
IN the latest round of barbs with which Venezuela has responded to events surrounding its claim to the Essequibo region of Guyana, Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, was described as “the Zelensky of the Caribbean.”
FNM divisions still on show
THE continuing rift that appears apparent in the FNM – between party leader Michael Pintard and former leader and prime minister Dr Hubert Minnis – shows no signs of healing.
Saturday, March 8
Fire at scrap metal yard sends cloud of smoke over New Providence
A FIRE at a scrap metal yard near the landfill site erupted on Saturday, sending clouds of smoke billowing across New Providence.
Friday, March 7
Flight attendant $100k smuggling claim probed
BAHAMASAIR is investigating claims that a female flight attendant smuggled $100,000, which was later allegedly seized at Hugo Chavez Cap-Haïtien International Airport.
Teenage girl details incest by father over four years
A TEENAGE girl testified in an incest trial that her father began sexually abusing her in 2015 when she was just ten years old and continued doing so into her early teens until 2019.
Minnis blasts ‘$1bn’ moorings monopoly
An ex-prime minister yesterday accused the Government of handing a “$1bn” monopoly to well-connected insiders as he called for the Bahamas Moorings deal to be probed by a newly-created corruption watchdog.
Exploding SpaceX rocket drops debris on Bahamas
A SpaceX Starship rocket exploded mid-flight Thursday evening, lighting up the sky over The Bahamas.
Sarkis wins bid for ‘examiner’ of CCA
Sarkis Izmirlian’s bid to have an independent examiner investigate the business affairs of Baha Mar’s main contractor has been approved by the New Jersey federal bankruptcy court.
‘Everybody is scared as hell’ on mounting Trump tariff confusion
A Bahamian small business adviser yesterday warned “everybody is scared as hell right now” given the “chaos and mass confusion” caused by Donald Trump’s daily-changing trade and tariff policies.
Realtor’s ‘fast track’ via expansion to Eleuthera
A prominent Bahamian realtor yesterday said his firm plans to be “very instrumental” in Eleuthera’s growth with its newly-unveiled Governor’s Harbour office set to be followed soon by a Harbour Island premises.
Trade chief pledges 60% slash in key food prices
The Bahamas Trade Commission’s chairman yesterday pledged that consumers can expect to see a 20-60 percent reduction in the cost of frequently-consumed food items by this summer.
‘160,000 to get free medicine’ under NHI
THE Davis administration has announced plans to expand healthcare access, saying more than 160,000 Bahamians with chronic non-communicable diseases will soon receive free prescription medication under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).
Man found guilty of 2021 attempted murder
A MAN was found guilty of attempting to shoot and kill another man outside a bar on Bethel Avenue in the spring of 2021.
Bringing ballet to paradise
ICONIQUE returns to The Bahamas this weekend - the ballet show that made its debut last year and is back again at Old Fort Bay for two nights.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Every stroke of the brush dedicated to the woman he loves
KEVIN Cooper is a Bahamian artist.
Clubs & Societies: March 7, 2025
Friday, March 7, 2025
Environmentalists react to SpaceX rocket explosion
ENVIRONMENTALISTS are urging the Davis administration to reconsider its agreement with SpaceX to land rocket boosters in The Bahamas after a Starship rocket exploded, sending debris into Bahamian waters.
Minnis calls for Commission of Inquiry in Exuma mooring deal
FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis renewed concerns yesterday over the controversial Exuma mooring deal, calling for the matter to be referred to the Independent Commission of Investigations (ICOI) as soon as it is appointed.
Hanna-Martin: Targeted interventions for students with lower GPA than 1.0 working
EDUCATION Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said 79 percent of 1,112 students with a GPA below 1.0 have improved their grades due to targeted interventions.
Govt defends safety of eggs from Dominican Republic
THE government has defended the safety of eggs imported from the Dominican Republic, assuring Bahamians that all food imports meet strict inspection standards.
Halkitis ‘not concerned’ over potential Trump tariffs
ECONOMIC Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis is not concerned that The Bahamas may have to reevaluate its customs duties regime as the Trump administration considers retaliatory measures against countries that impose taxes on American imports.
Lewis calls on govt to address lack of mammogram machines at Rand Memorial Hospital
CENTRAL Grand Bahama MP Iram Lewis has criticised the lack of a working mammography machine and functional freezer at Rand Memorial Hospital, calling on the government to address the “inefficiencies.”
QC Comets’ gap shrinks on day 2
The Queen’s College Comets have all intentions of dethroning the defending champions - St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine - at the 2025 Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) Track and Field Championships and they appear to be on track to do just that.
Carifta games: Mike Sands likes what he has seen so far
NORTH American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) President Mike Sands said he likes what he’s seen so far in the lead up to the staging of both the CARIFTA track and field and swimming competitions.
‘Coach Yo’ and Ole Miss Rebels advance to SEC quarterfinals
GRAND Bahamian coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin and her University of Mississippi Lady Rebels are now into their fifth consecutive quarterfinal appearance of the 2025 Southeast Conference Women’s Basketball Tournament in Greenville, South Carolina.
Paul Greene and Penmen to play for another title
GRAND Bahamian senior Paul Greene and his Southern New Hampshire University Penmen men’s basketball team will now play for another Northeast 10 Conference championship title.
Thursday, March 6
Embracing the true meaning of Lent
ACROSS the Bahamas yesterday, the faithful made their way to cathedrals and churches throughout Ash Wednesday, some attending early morning Mass, others slipping in during their lunch breaks, and many gathering after work to mark the beginning of Lent.
MP’s Old Bahama Bay closure fears refuted
The Old Bahama Bay resort is not closing but is instead poised to undergo a change in operational and management control, Tribune Business confirmed yesterday.
New boating portal close following four-year wait
The Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) president yesterday asserted that the planned June 2025 roll-out of the Port Department’s new online portal, inclusive of fee payments, “is not a celebration”.
Minister: GBPA ‘holding up progress in own city’
A Cabinet minister yesterday accused the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) of “holding up progress in its own city’ by delaying the International Bazaar deal over $1.5m in allegedly outstanding fees.
Upgrades to Marsh Harbour shipping port ‘to begin soon’
TRANSPORT Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis announced yesterday that long-awaited upgrades to Abaco’s shipping port in Marsh Harbour will soon begin, with a Bahamian company selected by US partners to restore the transhipment port.
‘Thwarted’ Treasure Cay buyer targeting new developer’s deal
A “thwarted” buyer of Abaco’s Treasure Cay development is seeking to obtain evidence from its new developer to aid his pursuit of multi-million dollar lawsuits against both the former owner and the Government.
Bahamasair confirms incident involving flight attendant in Haiti
Bahamasair has confirmed an incident involving a flight attendant at Cap-Haïtien International Airport in Haiti on March 1.
Parties clash over claims of busting deficit
The Prime Minister and Opposition’s finance spokesman yesterday clashed over assertions the Davis administration has never “bust” its deficit and other Budget targets and will not do so in 2024-2025.
Pintard: Who complied with law on disclosures?
AFTER the chairman of the Public Disclosures Commission suggested facility issues are slowing down processing of public officials’ declarations of assets, liabilities and income, FNM leader Michael Pintard said his commission must be more forthcoming about who has complied with the law.
PM defends travel spending
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis staunchly defended his administration’s travel expenditures during his contribution to the mid-year budget debate, asserting that the benefits of international trips far outweigh the costs.
Minister: Govt will amend law on car insurance dates
OVER 1,600 tickets were issued for uninsured vehicles in New Providence during the first eight months of 2024, according to Minister of Transport and Energy Jobeth Coleby-Davis.
‘Pay us what we’re owed’ say students
FOR months, Phillawn Strachan has balanced teaching and studying at the University of The Bahamas (UB), but late financial aid payments have left her struggling to cover rent and basic necessities.
Students angry at delays in payments from govt
UB students are prepared to “act as necessary” if they don’t see a change, following the Student Government Association’s (SGA) call for transparency and a more proactive approach to delayed payments.
KEITH ROYE II: Getting a gig aided by advancing technology
The way we work is undergoing a seismic shift. Traditional 9am to 5pm jobs are no longer the only path to professional success.
Tourism targets European business at travel summit
The Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has teamed with private sector partners in a bid to generate increased tourism business from the European market.
STATESIDE: Plenty of Trump jokes - and a few regrets?
Amid all the chaos, confusion, malice and mistakes currently reigning in Washington, someone suggested that a few laughs might be in order.
Bail denied for double murder accused
A MAN was denied bail yesterday for a 2018 double homicide in Pinewood Gardens after his previous bail was revoked last year due to his failure to appear for trial.
Probation over stolen bike
A MAN was placed on probation yesterday after admitting to receiving a stolen motorcycle last week.
QC Comets in the lead on day one
The Queen’s College Comets opened the first day of the 2025 Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) Track and Field Championships in the lead with 427.50 points.
‘Most BPL home customers had bills under $125 in January’
MINISTER of Energy and Transport Jobeth Coleby-Davis said 62 percent of Bahamas Power and Light’s (BPL) 94,500 residential customers received electricity bills under $125 in January.
Construction firms go global in hunt for cheaper materials
IN the wake of tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, construction companies in The Bahamas are hoping an upcoming trip to India will help to obtain affordable materials.
‘Nearly two-thirds of household BPL bills under $125 in January’
Minister of Energy and Transport JoBeth Coleby Davis said yesterday that 62 percent of residential consumers received bills under $125 in January.
Fidelity teams with MasterCard for small business card solution
Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) has teamed with MasterCard to develop a credit card tailored specifically to meet the needs of local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
MP to host intercession event in community
In a time when crime, fatalities and suicides are of serious concern for Bahamians, Member of Parliament for Sea Breeze Leslia Miller Brice is hosting a “Call to Prayer” Gospel concert and intercession event.
Inspiring young readers
FOR Kertorra Davis, faith, family, and community are at the heart of everything she does. A devoted wife, mother, entrepreneur, and now a Christian Bahamian author, Kertorra has added another meaningful title to her name with the release of her debut children’s book, Fruit Treasures of Heaven.
$300m borrowing resolution ‘just a precaution’
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said a $300m borrowing resolution tabled in the House of Assembly last week is a precautionary measure designed to offer flexibility, not an immediate commitment to borrow the full amount.
Man charged over alleged abduction and attack on woman
A 52-year-old man accused of abducting and violently attacking a woman was charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
FRONT PORCH: Lenten pilgrimage and spiritual exercises
The days of Lent are like a mini-pilgrimage, a retreat, a time for spiritual exercises, prayer and practices in preparation for the celebration of Easter and rebirth.
High Commission hosts Bahamian Cambridge alumni
The British High Commission recently hosted the Bahamian alumni of Cambridge University for a celebratory dinner.
Mixed reaction to proposal to relocate roadside garages
SOME roadside garage operators are open but sceptical about the Davis administration’s desire to relocate such businesses from residential areas to designated zones, raising concerns over costs, space limitations, and unfulfilled promises from previous initiatives.
Man accused of gun charges admits curfew breach
A MAN was sentenced to six months in prison after admitting to breaching curfew conditions related to a pending drug and firearm trial, following the discovery of 100 rounds of ammunition at his home last year.
Businessman admits throwing stones through window
A GRAND Bahama businessman who pleaded guilty to causing damage at a local business establishment has been ordered by a magistrate to undergo evaluation and treatment at the Diah Ward of the Rand Memorial Hospital before sentencing.
Guilty of cutlass assault
A MAN was placed on probation yesterday after admitting to assaulting a landowner with a cutlass while attempting to pick bananas.
‘VJ’ scores 18 to help Bears hold on to beat Horned Frogs 61-58
WHILE the Baylor men’s basketball team kept rolling against the TCU Horned Frogs on Tuesday night, Bimini native Valdez ‘VJ’ Edgecombe Jr proved why he deserved to make the final cut for the 2025 Jerry West Shooting Guard Award.
FIBA Americup: Coach ‘Moon’ Mcphee impressed
THREE decades ago marked the first time the Bahamas men’s national basketball team qualified for what was formerly known as the Tournament of Americas (now known as the FIBA AmeriCup) under the tutelage of legendary coach Gladstone “Moon” McPhee.
Girls and boys compete at the World Jrs Tennis Championship in the Dominican Republic
TEAM Bahamas’ boys and girls are representing at the 2025 World Juniors Tennis Championship where the best in U14 tennis in the Caribbean and the Central American region are competing.
Tennis Champions crowned
THE first adult tournament on the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s calendar was held this weekend - the third annual Eye of the Tiger doubles tennis tournament March 1-2 in beautiful Eleuthera.
Wednesday, March 5
Two men facing charges of child molestation and murder
TWO men were informed that their charges of child molestation and murder, respectively, would proceed to the Supreme Court.
Deltec demands $33m ‘stolen’ funds damages
A Bahamian bank and trust company is demanding “no less than $33m” in damages from a global payments provider after the latter “unlawfully withheld” more than $18m funds belonging to it.
Uncertainty if GB assets in Hutchison’s global port exit
Uncertainty prevailed last night over whether the Freeport Container Port and 50 percent ownership in the Freeport Harbour Company are included in CK Hutchison Holdings’ multi-billion dollar global ports deal.
URCA urged: ‘Cure abuse’ to stop political interference
Cable Bahamas is urging regulators to “cure this abuse” and “unnecessary financial burden” caused by governments dismissing its directors before they have completed their full term in office.
No blanket approach for moving roadside garages
A scrap metal yard proprietor, who says his business has operated without incident for 40 years, yesterday argued the Government should not adopt a blanket, one-size-fits-all approach to relocating such operations.
Super Value’s $500,000 egg gamble paid off
Super Value’s owner yesterday asserted its “$500,000 gamble paid off” with the restriction on how many low-priced eggs customers can buy now doubled from just two to four cartons.
Two killed in separate traffic accidents
TWO people were killed in separate traffic accidents, bringing the country’s road fatality count for the year to 11.
WSC TRIAL: ‘I’ll come up and slap you’, defence lawyer tells witness
A TOP defence attorney was cautioned in court yesterday after he threatened to slap Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) General Manager Robert Deal during cross-examination in the ongoing trial of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson and others.
Glover-Rolle silent on who gave support for pay change
PUBLIC Service Minister Pia Glover-Rolle said the administration has met with stakeholder groups that support bi-monthly pay for public servants –– but government officials have not identified the groups.
Yet more failures over disclosures
THE Public Disclosures Committee chairman said office inaccessibility and facility issues, including mould, have slowed the processing of this year’s public disclosures of public officials.
Water and Sewerage GM grilled over knowledge of the project in Gibson trial
A DEFENCE attorney in the criminal trial of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson and others suggested yesterday that a prosecution witness may have an agenda as he pressed the witness on his involvement in the contracts at the centre of the case.
No Bahamians reported as detained by US Immigrations, says Ambassador Jones
NO Bahamians have been reported as detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since the United States intensified enforcement efforts, according to Ambassador to the United States Wendell Jones.
Rights committee ‘needs to tackle police brutality and labour violations’
HUMAN Rights Bahamas wants members of the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee (PHRC) to tackle police brutality, arbitrary detentions, and inhumane prison conditions.
GBPA chief doubts over govt plans for Afro-Caribbean marketplace
A GRAND Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) executive doubts the Davis administration has a business plan for the Afro-Caribbean Marketplace project, which it has described as a “game-changing development” for Freeport’s International Bazaar.
Port Authority renames streets in honour of three veteran educators in Grand Bahama
THE Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has renamed streets in honour of three veteran educators in Grand Bahama who made significant contributions to education and the development of young people.
Woodside named CIBC Caribbean’s Director of Corporate Banking
Nedra Woodside has consistently demonstrated her expertise in credit underwriting, portfolio management, and corporate banking for over 25 years.
Man on bail charged with gun possession
A MAN awaiting trial for murder was remanded into custody yesterday after he was found with two loaded guns near a park in Mason’s Addition last week.
Defence Force officer accused of fraud
A DEFENCE Force officer was granted bail yesterday after being accused of vehicle fraud and allegedly possessing a fake certificate of title last week.
Car theft and having gun magazine charges
A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of stealing a car and possessing a gun magazine last month.
Tuesday, March 4
Bahamas Youth Flag Football League launches 2025 season ‘in thrilling fashion’
THE Bahamas Youth Flag Football League (BYFFL) launched the 2025 season in thrilling fashion on Saturday on the fields opposite the original Thomas A Robinson stadium.
Horizon Distributors Blue Waves Swim Club Invitational results
THE Horizon Distributors Blue Waves Swim Club Invitational Swim Meet was held over the weekend at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex. The results from the meet are as follows:
Mako Aquatics club dominates the Horizon Blue Waves swim meet
THE Bahamas Aquatics National Championships is not until June, but the Mako Aquatics showed that they are on pace to defend their title.
Sidney Decius scores twice to propel Mingoes to victory
SIDNEY Decius made his first start at forward for the University of The Bahamas Mingoes men’s soccer team and made the most of it by scoring two goals to propel them to a 3-1 victory against Cavalier FC on Sunday.
Top junior golfers tee off in US Kids Golf Tournament at Baha Mar
AS a prelude to the Junior National Championships and School Golf Championships next week, some of the top junior golfers participated in the US Kids Golf Tournament at Baha Mar on Sunday.
Abner Johnson sets new national record
From the time he enrolled in Northwestern State University, Abner Johnson said his goal was to break Perry Adderley’s Bahamian national record in the men’s weight throw. Now in his senior year for the Demons men’s track and field team, Johnson finally did it.
Bahamas World Boxing Federation launched in Grand Bahama
WELLINGTON Miller was more pleased with the launch of the newly formed Bahamas World Boxing Federation.
Queen’s College Comets ‘hoping to spoil the party’
WITH the celebrations for St Augustine’s College’s 80th anniversary already underway, the Big Red Machine would love to add to the festivities with another Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships.
AG: Integrity Commission would be cost ‘duplication’
The Attorney General yesterday maintained there is no need for an Integrity Commission given that the Independent Commission of Investigations will conduct the same level of scrutiny and oversight.
$200m Exuma project to be ‘transformational’
The developer behind an $200m Exuma resort project yesterday renewed his pledged that the development will be “transformational” for the island’s economy.
International Women’s Day is on March 8, and the theme set by the United Nations this year is “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” The popular theme that is being more widely used
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) yesterday unveiled the completion of its first-ever solar carport in the Caribbean at its East Hill Street corporate office in The Bahamas.
Super Value eggs ‘met all required protocols’
A senior official yesterday reassured that cut-price eggs imported by Super Value are safe by disclosing that the product met “all the requisite protocols” relating to food health.
PETER YOUNG: Still hope after disastrous White House encounter
Such is the power of modern communications in today’s interconnected world that an incident deemed to be sufficiently newsworthy can spread across the globe almost instantaneously. It is called, of course, “going viral”.
IVOINE INGRAHAM: Arrogance, greed, jealousy, and envy are part of our culture
In the Bahamas, there are many who, with their means, quietly make contributions to various organisations. They insist on their names not being called, as they believe in the purity of their actions. For instance, they fund a local school’s scholarship program, help youth organisations and sports, donate to a community health clinic, or help those in need. Their selfless acts, devoid of any desire for recognition, serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration. These unsung heroes, through their selfless acts, inspire admiration and understanding of the true essence of giving.
Man on bail for charges of kidnapping, rape and two murders accuses judge of bias
A MAN on bail charged with kidnapping, rape, and two murders, presented a recusal motion in court without the support of legal counsel, accusing the judge of bias.
Woman charged with seriously injuring man sent to Sandilands for evaluation
A WOMAN was remanded to Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre yesterday after being accused of seriously injuring a man in Leslie Estates last week.
Man accused of rape chose to serve two years in prison for bail breach charge
A MAN accused of rape chose to serve two months in prison yesterday after admitting to breaching his curfew while out on bail.
Man on bail for murder and two others charged with stealing cars
A MAN awaiting a murder trial was sent to prison after being accused in a series of recent car thefts in New Providence.
Man accused of robbery with violence, grievous harm and threats of death
A MAN was granted bail after being accused of attacking his former girlfriend last month and stealing cash from her by force.
Organisations to help rebuild Eljhay’s Hilltop Community Centre
SEVERAL organisations have partnered to rebuild Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries Community Centre, which was known as a beacon of hope in the Kemp Road community.
Teen among four shot in drive-by shooting
POLICE are investigating a drive-by shooting that left four men injured on Sunday evening.
Water and Sewerage GM grilled over knowledge of project in trial
A DEFENCE attorney in the criminal trial of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson and others suggested yesterday that a prosecution witness may have an agenda as he pressed the witness on his involvement in the contracts at the centre of the case.
Critical shortage of podiatrists in country
THE Bahamas faces a critical shortage of podiatrists, with only four practitioners serving a population of nearly 400,000 people, according to Dr Monique Mitchell, a local podiatrist working with the Ministry of Health.
Police investigate alleged suicide bid
POLICE have launched an investigation following an alleged suicide attempt involving a 23-year-old woman on Sunday.
Search called off for woman who "jumped" from cruise ship
A SEARCH has been called off for a missing 56-year-old American woman who reportedly jumped from a cruise ship in waters off Grand Bahama yesterday.
BISX-listed fund targeting $15m deal near Sandyport
A BISX-listed fund is planning to invest between $10m-$15m in transforming a “failed development” near Sandyport into a “short-term residential” complex in the latest phase of its expansion drive.
Tourism alarm for airlift over Silver Airways ‘cancellations’
Family Island tourism and hotel operators yesterday voiced alarm that some visitors were abruptly stranded in The Bahamas over the weekend when a troubled airline was forced to cancel its Orlando services.
Exuma moorings ‘model’ calls for regularising and standards
A potential “model” for the Government’s fledgling national moorings strategy yesterday warned it was vital such facilities are “regularised and standardised” given the importance of boating tourism.
Cable, BTC urge ‘fiscal restraint’ from URCA
Cable Bahamas is calling on industry regulators to show “fiscal restraint” after the latter’s proposed 2025 budget expanded year-over-year by a rate more than three times’ higher than it expected.
Customers egg-cited over drop in egg prices at Super Value
Super Value’s president yesterday said shoppers had gone “crazy” after it launched its own brand of eggs imported at a price almost two-thirds less than those imported from its regular US supplier.
Human Rights committee holds first meeting after two years
ALMOST two years after Parliament approved the establishment of a Human Rights Committee, its members met for the first time on February 27.
Potcake plea for help to bury son who drowned
LOCKSLEY “Potcake” Thompson, a well-known street philosopher, is grappling with the loss of his son, who drowned at Potter’s Cay Dock last week.
Minister of State from India pays visit to Bahamas National Trust
His Excellency Pabitra Margherita, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, visited the Bahamas National Trust as part of his historic Ministerial Bilateral visit to The Bahamas—the first such visit from an Indian Minister.
‘Time to act over roadside garages’
WORKS Minister Clay Sweeting said the government has identified Crown land to relocate roadside garages around New Providence.
GB woman abducted and attacked by man she knew
A 63-year-old Grand Bahama woman was abducted and violently attacked by a man she knew, according to police.
Several organisations to help rebuild Eljhay’s Hilltop Community Centre
SEVERAL organisations have partnered to rebuild Eljhay’s Hilltop Cottage Ministries Community Centre, which was known as a beacon of hope in the Kemp Road community.
Critical shortage of podiatrists in country as nearly 20% of population has diabetes
THE Bahamas faces a critical shortage of podiatrists, with only four practitioners serving a population of nearly 400,000 people, according to Dr Monique Mitchell, a local podiatrist working with the Ministry of Health.
Monday, March 3
Bahamian broker faces $11m insolvency fears
A Bahamian broker/dealer has been placed in Supreme Court-supervised liquidation amid fears it is almost $11m insolvent and unable to fully repay clients what they are owed.
‘Game played in shadow’: Realtors lose on strike-out
A Supreme Court judge has ordered that a real estate firm, co-founded by the Bahamas’ ambassador to Morocco, be named as a defendant in a $112,000 construction contract dispute.
Super Value making ‘good progress’ on cheaper eggs
Super Value’s president is voicing optimism that it will “shortly” be able to offer lower-priced eggs to hard-pressed Bahamian consumers after sourcing supplies from outside the bird flu-ravaged US.
Govt reviewing mooring policies as it looks to modernise oversight
THE government is reviewing mooring policies in The Bahamas as it prepares to modernise regulations and strengthen oversight of mooring fields across the country, days after a controversial Exuma-wide mooring deal was scrapped.
Govt U-turn on car insurance renewal on birth-month
Insurers have hailed the government’s move to abandon the “counter productive” stipulation that all Bahamian and resident drivers must annually renew auto insurance coverage in their birth month.
‘Rise in young boys with suicidal thoughts’
THE Bahamas Crisis Centre has seen an increase in calls this year from young boys expressing suicidal thoughts, with many reporting feelings of isolation and failure.
Questions over what led to fatal crash that left young mother dead
A HARROWING video of a car speeding through an intersection and plunging into the water on Yamacraw Beach early Saturday morning left many shaken, sparking confusion and urgent questions about what factors led to the fatal crash.
Sears: Immigration commission report coming ‘in due course’
MORE than a year after its formation, the immigration commission responsible for reviewing how decisions are made has yet to produce its report — but Minister of Immigration and National Insurance Alfred Sears insists it will be completed “in due course”.
Bus attack victim meets her rescuer
MONTHS after surviving a brutal attack that left her with two broken legs, Latasha Rolle tearfully reunited with the man who saved her on Friday, vowing never to forget his heroic actions.
Young man shot dead in Elizabeth Estates area
POLICE are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Saturday in Elizabeth Estates, claiming the life of a 24-year-old man.
Man who had bail previously revoked has it reinstated with conditions
A MAN who has been granted bail two times had his bail reinstated after it was previously revoked for failing to comply with court-imposed conditions.
Coalition of Independents ratify seven new candidates for the upcoming general election
THE Coalition of Independents (COI) ratified seven new candidates for the next general election on Saturday, further expanding its roster ahead of the upcoming general election.
Op-Ed: Uphold social contract and rebuild trust in governance
The Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG) notes that public trust in governance is declining globally, and The Bahamas is no exception.
BUT chief insists she has no political affiliations
BELINDA Wilson, president of the Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) and the Bahamas National Alliance Trade Unions Congress (BNATUC), insisted she has no political affiliations, a position she has maintained for over two decades.
