Stories for March 2012

Saturday, March 31

Computer donation gives children 'wonderful opportunity'

CHILDREN from the Farm Road community could not wait to try out the new computers donated to their Urban Renewal Centre by the Lyford Cay Foundation on Thursday.

Friday, March 30

Tests to find missing dads

MAGISTRATES do have the power to order a man to take a DNA test concerning child support payments without hearing why a man denies being the father.

Court orders father to pay child's school fees

A LANDMARK court ruling was made yesterday on a father's obligation to pay his child's tuition fees whether or not he agreed the private school she attends.

THE RECRUITMENT of foreign officers to assist in the fight against the rise of violent crime is one among a list of recommendations put forward in a new crime study conducted by noted psychiatrist Dr David Allen.

Peet's Andros seat now vacant

THE Parliamentary seat for North Andros and the Berry Islands has been officially vacant since March 1, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham revealed.

City Market staff want proof over pensions

A REASSURANCE from City Market owner Mark Finlayson to employees that their pension fund remains intact has been dismissed until there is “tangible” proof signaling “all is well”, Whanslaw Turnquest, inventory auditor said yesterday.

Mystery over death of man, 84

POLICE are still unsure of the circumstances surrounding the mysterious death of an elderly man. The 84-year-old man of Lyford Cay was found unresponsive at a construction site at the Caves, West Bay Street around 5pm Wednesday.

'There was no threat' in airport shutdown

WHILE there is still no official word on how a boarding door at the Lynden Pindling International Airport came to be opened without authorisation on Wednesday, preliminary reports indicate there was no security threat, The Tribune understands.

Russell calls abrupt suspension of Parliament a 'nasty' move

FORMER Cabinet Minister Kenneth Russell branded the FNM's abrupt final suspension of the House of Assembly, which prevented many retiring MPs from making their final address, a "shocking" and "nasty" move.

The 'bridge from Sir Lynden to the future'

IN Marathon last night to introduce attorney Heather Hunt as the FNM’s candidate for that constituency, Prime Minister Ingraham announced that on Wednesday the House of Assembly had finished its work. It is now up to Mr Ingraham to set a date for the election, which must come before May 23 when constitutionally the life of the five-year parliament automatically ends.

Speaker of the House abdicated his authority

THE HOUSE of Assembly yesterday was mild in comparison to some debates in the Mother of Parliaments, The House of Commons London.

Expert's input is a positive thing

IS IT going to hurt us to have input from an expert in the field of fighting crime from overseas? Someone who has a proven track record of success in crime-ridden cities? It does not matter where Mr Bratton is from or how he got here. All of these are distractions stirred up by people with narrow agendas. He successfully fought crime and we want to learn from him so that we can decisively and successfully continue to prevent and fight crime as well.

DNA says Christie 'clueless' over crime

THE Democratic National Alliance hit out at opposition leader Perry Christie for saying the fledgling party is "clueless" when it comes to fighting violent crime.

'Delaying naming of election date is hurting the Bahamas'

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham's decision to prolong the suspense surrounding the date of elections is damaging the Bahamas, DNA leader Branville McCartney said.

Quarter-milers toget IAAF honours

Demetrius Pinder and Chris 'Fireman' Brown made history when they came across the finish line with the silver and bronze medals respectively in the 400 finals at the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Istanbul, Turkey.

Team Bahamas in training for Rugby Sevens, WCup qualifiers

AS the local rugby season comes to an end, the Bahamas Rugby Football Union (BRFU) is focused on the national team development process for competition in the NACRA region.

Martial arts schools to face off in Sports Blast

IT'S going to the fourth version of the Young Champions Boys Club's Sports Blast Saturday as the various local martial arts schools come together to compete in the Open Karate Tournament. Scheduled for Bahamas Faith Ministries on Carmichael Road, the event is slated to begin at 9am and will show competitors in kata - hard and soft, point sparring, continuous fighting, extreme kata and grappling.

$50m project predicts 30-40% sales increase

A MAJOR western New Providence real estate development is on track to this year surpass 2011 sales by 30-40 per cent, its principal telling Tribune Business yesterday that it was preparing to take total build-out value to $50 million by starting two more construction phases in 2012.

Bahamas goods, services offers sent to WTO

THE Bahamas has already submitted its initial goods and services offers to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) secretariat in Geneva, this nation's lead negotiator told Tribune Business yesterday, arguing that it "had not suffered" from the absence of a dedicated, specialist trade unit within the Government.

City Markets' Nassau staff join GB lawsuit

NASSAU-based City Markets employees have joined a legal action filed back in February on behalf of the supermarket chain's Freeport staff, their former attorney confirmed yesterday, in an effort to preserve salary arrears and severance entitlements.

Stronger BFSB is needed for 'cutting edge' finance sector

THE Bahamas should seek to improve its ranking as an international financial centre by "strengthening" the private sector and giving it the tools to keep this nation "at the cutting edge", a leading accountant said yesterday, rather than expand the size of government through a Ministry of Financial Services.

Royal Fidelity's Insurance trust a 'market first'

ROYALFIDELITY Merchant Bank & Trust yesterday said its newly-launched insurance trust was the first such specific product to enter the Bahamian market, aimed at ensuring life insurance policy proceeds were "used as intended".+

Mixing business and home ownership

I HAVE always regarded my home as my castle, and the place to rekindle my energy. I also enjoy pottering in the garden, and doing odd jobs around the place. I was therefore surprised to find an article on TechCrunch the other day that suggested I am wayward. I am not totally convinced, but I decided to share the theory anyway.

Bimini seaplane ride 'grows a ton'

A US Navy fighter pilot's sea plane company will begin twice weekly scheduled flights between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini today, telling Tribune Business the company had "grown a ton" in less than a year following its $200,000 start-up investment.

Out Island resort bookings up 8-9%

FAMILY Island resorts are reporting high occupancy levels and strong bookings through April, with one hotel manager telling Tribune Business that bookings were up 8-9 per cent through next month and the remainder of the year.

Airline set to deploy new planes on Bahamas routes

SILVER Airways yesterday said it has received Us regulatory approval to operate Saab 340Bplus aircraft, which it will use on its Florida-Bahamas route network.

Thursday, March 29

Is Ingraham about to ring the bell?

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham abruptly suspended the House of Assembly in a move that shocked opposition members yesterday.

Grounded: air fleet hit by security alert

THE US terminal at Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport was shut down for an hour yesterday afternoon while officials investigated what they called an airport "security breach".

City Market 'nightmare' for workers

FOLLOWING continued rumours of impending store closures, frustrated employees are calling on City Market owners to shed light on what has become a "nightmare".

Concern over pensions

WORKERS at City Market have raised concern over the security of their pension funds as the store approaches an impending closure. Whanslaw Turnquest, the foodstore chain's chief inventory auditor, said yesterday that staff now fear that the pension fund, worth millions, might have been depleted.

Three quizzed over man's shooting

THREE men are being questioned over the shooting of a man who was later in a car crash as he was being rushed to hospital.

Primary students injured in car accident

FREEPORT - Two primary school students were hit by a car as they walked from school early this week. Police are appealing to motorists to be vigilant while driving near school zones.

PLP: Supercop visit was political stunt

THE PLP criticised the visit of former New York police commissioner William Bratton in an effort to gain "political points and votes", Minister of National Security Tommy Turnquest said yesterday.

Birthday behind bars for suspect in murder case

A MAN from the community known as The Mud spent his last evening as a 38-year-old behind bars following his arraignment on a murder charge yesterday.

Ambassador Nicole Avant - a job well done

ALTHOUGH only in her post for two short years, Nicole Avant was considered among the more popular of the US Ambassadors to be posted to the Nassau Embassy.

Did I give to parasites?

Re: Less than ? of NIB pension recipients come from poorest 20%. - The Tribune, March 14, 2012. THE article states "there is no objective criteria (sic) to determine eligibility". However, there do seem to be at least some criteria in official use - such as nepotism and the political affiliation of recipients.

PM: Resist provocation during red splash beach party

PRIME minister Hubert Ingraham warned FNM supporters to resist being provoked by members of the opposition during the "Red Splash" Easter Monday beach party. On April 9, the FNM will host supporters from around New Providence on Montagu Beach Park.

Turnquest launches anti-drug strategy

NATIONAL Security Minister Tommy Turnquest officially launched the government's National Anti Drug Strategy 2012-2016 yesterday, which aims to curb demand and reduce the supply of dangerous drugs.

Prisons chief blames bus breakdown for court delays

SUPERINTENDENT of Prisons Dr Elliston Rahming apologised to appellate court judges for the late arrival of prisoners to that court two weeks ago. The prison chief explained that the incident was not a "contemptuous" act on his agency's behalf, or an attempt to disobey the court.

DNA pledges to end 'addiction' to borrowing money

IF ELECTED, the Democratic National Alliance claims it will break the country's "chronic addiction" to borrowing money. The fledgling party noted that the Bahamas was the victim of two major economic downgrades last year, which "raised eyebrows" around the world.

Market St, Prince Charles to open, Fox Hill Road South next to close

Market St, Prince Charles to open, Fox Hill Road South next to close By DANA SMITH dsmith@tribunemedia.net MINISTRY of Works and Transport officials announced yesterday the up-coming opening of two major roads and the closure of another as the New Provi

Activist presents documentary to House speaker

FORMER Member of Parliament and cultural activist Edmund Moxey presented his documentary "The Price of Being a Man: The Ed Moxey Story" - which tells the story of the creation Jumbey Village and the quiet revolution that followed - to Speaker of the House Alvin Smith at the House of Assembly yesterday.

Motorcade celebration for winners of Schools Festival

FREEPORT - Students at Bishop Michael Eldon High and Primary Schools celebrated with a motorcade on Tuesday after winning the 19th Anglican Schools Festival, held in Grand Bahama. The BME Warriors are the current defending champs, and this year's win is their ninth championship.

DNA hits back over claims of backpeddling on marital rape

THE DNA Women's Alliance hit back at Montagu MP Loretta Butler-Turner's criticism of the party's stance on marital rape. Alliance president Prodesta Moore said she was shocked by Mrs Butler-Turner's claim that the DNA leader Branville McCartney "back peddled" after initially declaring he did not think rape in a marriage should be illegal.

Waiters get gratuity

Waiters get gratuity By Allison Miller "And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said unto him, fear not, Zach

Searching for the light

THERE are wounds from the past which continue to cast shadows over our lives. Lent is an excellent time to ask the Holy Spirit to shine the light of God's love around us in order to detect what they are and how they still affect us.

I've decided to be different this day

I've decided to be different this day By Kevin Ewing Thank you Jesus, this is such a wonderful morning. This morning I have decided in my mind that come what may, today is a day that is indeed wonderful. Friends, we must grab hold of the understanding

Grand Bahama pastor elected superintendent of the Bahamas

LAST week the Bahamas District Church of the Nazarene celebrated 37 years of ministry in the Bahamas in its District Conventions and Assembly at the Hilton Outten Convention Centre, Freeport, Bahamas.

Walking closer to Christ

WHETHER it was their struggles, triumphs or trials, a number of Christian Bahamians said the choice to become closer to God was one they will never regret.

The 'Word' On Air

THE SOUTH Bahamas Conference of Seventh Day Adventists is getting a new media platform this Saturday, when it launches Word SBC 88.3 FM, a new radio station.

'Serious' Bahamas groups assess City Markets deal

CITY Markets' principal yesterday said "two very serious" Bahamas-based players were now assessing the possible acquisition of the struggling five-store supermarket chain, describing them as "some of the most respected business people in this town and business".

$2m safety margin for City Markets pension fund

THE value of the City Markets' staff pension fund's main asset "supersedes" what is owed to plan beneficiaries by some $2 million, one of its trustees saying yesterday that he hoped to conclude a deal for its sale "within the next week".

Kozeny defeats US government extradition bid

INFAMOUS Lyford Cay resident, Viktor Kozeny, was yesterday celebrating judicial victory over the US Government after the London-based Privy Council reaffirmed decisions by the Bahamian courts to reject his extradition over an alleged $200 million investment fraud.

FOCOL in 'major leagues' via $500k aviation fuel entry

FOCOL Holdings' decision to enter the aviation fuel supply business via its $500,000 acquisition of Shell's one-third interest in the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) fuel consortium takes the company "into the major leagues", its largest shareholder told Tribune Business yesterday.

City Markets trade dispute set for Friday

A TRADE dispute hearing filed on behalf of some 200 City Markets employees is set for this Friday, as staff seek to secure their financial compensation, pension and other benefits from the embattled supermarket chain.

Contracting for successs

NOTHING can teach us what should be in a business contract more than experience, and unfortunately some of us have had to learn the hard way what the 'musts' are in a design agreement. Unfortunately, not every project goes well, and has the potential to turn ugly. Consequently, there may come a time when the enforcement of a contract is necessary. And it's at that point you'll thank yourself for having gone through the trouble of creating a sound legal document.

Bahamasair works on Emerald Bay, GB airlift changes

BAHAMASAIR is working with Sandals Emerald Bay on a summer flight schedule to facilitate better airlift, its general manager revealed yesterday, telling Tribune Business the carrier had already made adjustments to its existing flights to accommodate passengers travelling out of Nassau.

Wednesday, March 28

Supercop praise for police force

THE ARRIVAL of New York supercop William Bratton has thrown the spotlight on the fight against crime in the Bahamas - with both Bratton and the PLP saying that the police are already doing many of the right things to tackle crime.

Car crash as shooting victim is rushed to hospital

TWO CARS were involved in a collision last night outside Doctors Hospital on Shirley Street amid reports that one of the cars was rushing a shooting victim to receive medical help.

PM: PLP are yellow not gold

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham launched his most scathing attack yet on the PLP's record in office last night - and had an FNM crowd in stitches as he turned the opposition's own campaign slogan against them.

FNM MP hits back at DNA over marital rape law

MONTAGU MP Loretta Butler-Turner said yesterday that although she's unaware of the DNA's new proposal concerning spousal rape, she believes the party is merely "trying to redeem themselves".

Christie repeats education pledge

ADDRESSING a crowd in Exuma last night, opposition leader Perry Christie repeated his promise to double the more than 200 million spent on education each year.

City Markets job fear

TENSIONS remain high as 400 City Market employees are still unsure about the future of their jobs. According to Rosalie McKenzie, Bahamas Commercial Stores, Supermarkets and Warehouse Workers Union (BCSWWU) administrator, as talk persists of the impending closure of City Market's four remaining stores, employees are worried they will be left without compensation - especially as some of them have not been paid for three weeks.

Murder rate clarification

AT this point in 2011, the murder count stood at 34 for the year, according to Supt Stephen Dean.

PLP: Exuma has been neglected

THE Progressive Liberal party argued last night that the governing FNM has neglected the people of Exuma for the last five years - especially in terms of infrastructural upgrades.

Man innocent of murder of victim shot in bedroom

FREEPORT - Samiko Rigby was discharged of murder, armed robbery, and burglary in the Supreme Court on Tuesday.

Bahamians should expect more from candidates

THE election season is heating up and all the major political parties are making their rounds in an effort to secure the support of voters. There are many stories to tell as candidates reveal their vision to constituents for the next five years if elected.

No reason to call early electon

I WAS listening to talk show host Steve McKinney give his reasons as to why the Prime Minister should call an early election and it did not make sense to me.

How free was speech in the Seventies?

A READER of this column on The Tribune's website - Tribune242.com - commented that although he was "not a supporter of the PLP, at least their members are able to voice dissent. To not be able to do so," he wrote, "leads one down the slippery slope to a de facto dictatorship, which is where we unfortunately are as a country -- a dangerous cross roads indeed."

Case of malaria confirmed

A MAN diagnosed with malaria in Exuma was living near an area where health officials recorded several cases of the disease six years ago, Health Minister Dr Hubert Minnis confirmed.

Light it up blue for April's autism campaign

IN order to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness about autism, Resources and Education for Autism and related Challenges (REACH), a local autism awareness group, is joining countries around the world to recognise April as Autism awareness month and launch its "Light it up Blue" campaign.

Palm Hotel bought for $1.9m to be turned into hospital

IN AN effort to expand facilities at the RAND Memorial Hospital, the government yesterday signed a contract worth $1.9 million to purchase the Island Palm Hotel in Grand Bahama.

Survivor of the Holocaust tells how Schindler saved her life

DURING the entire period in which we worked for Director Schindler, he did everything possible to save the lives of the greatest possible number of Jews, in spite of the tremendous difficulties...we owe our lives solely to the efforts of Director Schindler and his humane treatment of his workers. - testimonial letter at the end of the war from the 1200 men and women saved from the Holocaust by Oskar Schindler.

Abaco fitness weekend a hit

THE 2012 Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend was considered a smashing success by all concerned.

Market access, poaching threat to $70m exports

THE Bahamas' $70 million per year spiny lobster (crawfish) exports are under pressure from market access and poaching issues, the Department of Marine Resources' director told Tribune Business yesterday.

Colina General had $2m asset deficiency

COLINA General Insurance Agency had an almost-$2 million balance sheet solvency deficiency when it was acquired by its sister company, BISX-listed Colina Holdings (Bahamas), in early December 2011 for just $1, Tribune Business can reveal.

Bahamas ranked in bottom three of finance centres

A FORMER Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) chairman yesterday said a report that ranked the Bahamas a lowly 75th out of 77 global financial centres would "not impact" this jurisdiction's core private wealth management client base, adding that he was "more worried" about G-20 driven regulatory initiatives.

Commission urged: Take 'strong action' over City Markets

A well-known financial analyst yesterday urged the Securities Commission to take strong, swift public action to protect the 22 per cent minority investors in City Markets' operating company, warning that "the integrity and reputation" of the Bahamian capital markets were threatened.

More Bahamian homeowners if smaller lots sized permitted

MORE Bahamians would be homeowners today if the authorities had acted on a 1984 report by now-Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham advocating that houses by constructed on lots under 5,000 square feet, the Bahamas Real Estate Association's (BREA) newly-affirmed president said yesterday.

Tell, but don't sell, your firm's story

THE first time I tried to use Facebook Ads in one of my businesses a couple of years ago, I lost a lot of money. I mean, everything seemed to be going so well. A lot of people were expressing interest in my page judging by the number of 'Likes' I received.

Union still seeking City Markets talks

TRADE union executives up to last night were still attempting to arrange a meeting with the principal of the City Markets foodstore chain to discuss the fate of the stores and its employees.

Region falls back over aquaculture

THE Caribbean is far behind the rest of the world in developing aquaculture, the executive director of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) telling Tribune Business that the sector accounted for between 1-2 per cent of total fish production in the region.

One step closer to paradise with sand jewelry

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter INSPIRED by the beauty of the beaches surrounding the islands of the Bahamas, jewelry and accessory designer MoNique Whyms calls her collection "A Piece of Paradise.

Artist Spotlight: Bahamian artists flaunt their diversity

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter PRESENTING a diverse selection of mixed media pieces that included a life-size sunflower, an 8 by 8 paper box and a video installation, Bahamians showe

Giants a series win away from 3-peat

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net The Commonwealth Bank Giants are now just one series win away from three-peating as the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) champions. At DW Davis gym Monday night, the Giants retur

'I believe this young lady is ready to run extremely fast'

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net AFTER watching her spectacular season-opening performance over the weekend, coach Henry Rolle says sprinter Anthonique Strachan is definitely ready for a big showing this year. Strachan, who

BaptistBasketballLeagueheats up

MACEDONIA Baptist and Temple Fellowship split their head-to-head match-up Saturday as the Baptist Sports Council continued its 2012 Basketball League at Baillou Hills Sporting Complex. In the 15-and-under division, three-time defending champions Macedonia

Henry Rolle to co-ordinate relay coaching staff

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net WHEN Team Bahamas heads to this year's Olympics, coach Henry Rolle said they are going to make every effort to ensure that all four relay teams are present at the Games in London, England. R

Tuesday, March 27

Bahamas police call in New York supercop

THE man credited with breaking the back of New York City's criminal underworld has been invited to advise Bahamian police as the government steps up its zero tolerance campaign against all forms of criminality.

DNA: New twist in marital rape row

AFTER stating that they would put the issue of marital rape legislation "to the people", the DNA has now taken a stand on the matter. It has proposed amendments to the existing law on sexual assault by a spouse.

Police 'calm tensions' after fatal stabbing

Police 'calm tensions' after fatal stabbing By SANCHESKA BROWN Tribune Staff Reporter sbrown@tribunemedia.net POLICE in Abaco have moved quickly to "calm tensions" after a Bahamian man was allegedly stabbed to death by a man of Haitian descent on Satu

BEC fires assistant managers

TWO assistant general managers at the Bahamas Electricity Corporation were fired late yesterday afternoon, one of them reportedly having just returned from vacation.

'Why were non-residents given mayaguana land?'

THE FNM candidate for MICAL called on the PLP to explain why non-residents of Mayaguana were granted Crown land on the island over locals during the former administration.

Johnson 'missing point on eligibility'

DAMIEN Gomez, the PLP's Central and South Eleuthera candidate, believes his opponent Howard Johnson is "missing the point" about his ineligibility to run for Eleuthera on the FNM's ticket.

PLP candidate says PM too late over promises for Eleuthera

PLP CANDIDATE for Central and South Eleuthera Damien Gomez says the prime minister's "late" promises to Eleutherans of upcoming infrastructural projects are a slap in the face.

Gray hits back ay Collie over 'qualified' claims

SIDNEY Collie's position that only he is qualified to speak for Mayaguana residents sparked a heated response from MICAL MP V Alfred Gray in the House of Assembly yesterday.

Laing tables agreement for Mayaguana project

IN THE House of Assembly yesterday, State Minister for Finance Zhivargo Laing tabled the amended Heads of Agreement between the government and Mayaguana Island Developers Limited for a development project on that island.

Dentistry abroad

GIVEN that the training and skills of Bahamian dentists and physicians are as good as those available elsewhere, the following question is posed in the article: Why do many Bahamians feel compelled to seek medical and dental care in another country?

Where are the sidewalks?

KEMP ROAD is a main thoroughfare that stretches from Shirley Street to Wulff Road. It is comprised of a diverse group of people and many children reside on this road and the accompanying side streets.

Probe by Bannister good for the Bahamas

FREE National Movement (FNM) candidate for North Andros and the Berry Islands, Desmond Bannister initiated a probe into illegal voter registration in this constituency. Reports indicated that at least 30 voters were being challenged in a court of law.

How PLP colleagues stole Ed Moxey's ideas

IN LEAFING through the Ed Moxey files in The Tribune's archives last night, we were not surprised to find that the Coconut Grove MP's own colleagues were trying to take credit for his cultural concept - Jumbey Village. In other words, they were trying to steal Mr Moxey's own brainchild from him.

Investigators launch probe into deadly plane crash

CIVIL Aviation Department investigators flew into Treasure Cay, Abaco yesterday afternoon to begin their probe into Sunday's deadly plane crash that killed two American couples.

Family island students promised no delays to education

FAMILY Island students accepted to the College of the Bahamas will no longer have to delay their education if unable to find a room in the campus dormitory or afford rent.

Bahamas and Austria foster closer ties

THE Bahamas and Austria are seeking to broaden and deepen the friendly relations between both countries despite differences and historical experiences.

Two arrested over undersized lobsters

DESPITE Agriculture Minister Larry Cartwright's continuous warning to persons fishing undersized lobster and conch that they will be dealt with to the full extent of the law, police have arrested two persons for the offence.

'Human trafficking will not go unpunished'

BAHAMIAN law enforcement and national security officials are continuing to put the necessary mechanisms in place to ensure that human smuggling operations do not go unpunished and/or unnoticed in The Bahamas, National Security Minister "Tommy" Turnquest said Friday.

Man admits drug charge, women cleared

A MAN's admission to possessing 60 pounds of marijuana with intent to supply saved three young women from being remanded with him to Her Majesty's prison yesterday.

Murder trial due to resume today

FREEPORT - Following a two-day adjournment, the murder trial of Samiko Rigby is expected to resume today.

Theft ring broken by police, goods recovered

POLICE have recovered thousands of dollars worth of stolen electronics and clothing after breaking a major theft ring in Eastern New Providence.

HPV lab opened at hospital to help tackle cervical cancer

THE Princess Margaret Hospital officially opened the public health care system's first Human Papillomavirus testing lab yesterday.

Player dies after collapsing on field

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net Fans and members of the New Providence Old-Timers Softball Association (NPOSA) suffered a big shock when versatile player Kent Forbes collapsed during

Carifta: Team Bahamas 'to give Jamaica a run for their money'

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net HEAD coach Dianne Woodside said she's confident that this year's Carifta team will perform exceptionally well in Hamilton, Berm

Cuckoos get second straight victory over rival Baillou

By RENALDO DORSETT Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net After a slow start to its 2012 season, the Bahamas Rugby Football Union (BRFU) ended its league play with a flurry, setting the stage for

Jay Phillippe named scholar athlete

By RENALDO DORSETT Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net FOR the second consecutive year, Bahamian collegiate basketball player Jay Phillippe has been honoured for his work on the court and in the classroom. Phill

YOU GO GIRL: Bahamian vote at UN in secure hands

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer HER seat in the General Assembly of the United Nations gives Allison Booker the chance to vote on issues that impact the lives of all Bahamians. With her vote,

The Watchwoman: DNA maintains, discriminatory rape law stays

NOELLE NICOLLS Tribune Features Editor nnicolls@tribunemedia.net Five little words, with six letters or less, are at the root of a controversial amendment to the Sexual Offences and Domestic V

Rape is rape and no means no

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer AFTER Phylicia Symonette* refused to have sex with her husband, she was beaten, battered, and then raped. She went to the police station to file a complaint, and the only thing she

Monday, March 26

Water Corp needs 'topup' to $20m subsidies

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor The Water & Sewerage Corporation will "definitely need" an increase to the existing $20 million taxpayer subsidy allocated to it for the 2011-2012 fiscal year, its gene

Bahamas can take $5-$10bn premium 'captive' with focus

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor The Bahamas could attract between $5-$10 billion in premium income within five years if it made a concerted effort to re-establish itself as a captive insura

BLACKLISTED: BRANVILLE MCCARTNEY

By NOELLE NICOLLS Tribune Features Editor nnicolls@tribunemedia.net WHEN it comes to illegal immigration Branville McCartney, member of parliament for Bamboo Town, time and time again, proves himself to be a master at pandering, but last week he added a

Broker 'optimistic' doctors' captive issues resolved

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor A Bahamas-based insurance executive is "optimistic" that differences with the regulator over a captive insurer providing coverage to 70-80 Bahamian physicians

Answers soughton City Markets

By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net The trade union representing City Markets' line staff is urgently seeking clarification from the Finlayson family over claims that the embattled fiv

Four killed in plane crash

THE tragic death of two American couples in a plane crash ripped through the small community of Treasure Cay yesterday.

URCA 'u-turn' over third cellular player

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor The Bahamian communications regulator has reversed course by deciding not to reserve space in the key 700 MHz radio frequency spectrum for a third cellular operator, while

Deveaux threatens to sue

THE war of words between Environment Minister Earl Deveaux and Democratic National Alliance (DNA) candidate Ben Albury continues to flare, with Mr Deveaux formally seeking recordings of a radio show on which Mr Albury was a guest.

Man stabbed to death

POLICE last night denied reports of growing tensions between Bahamians and persons of Haitian descent in Abaco.

Bahamas forms committee to manage its debt

By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net A DEBT and cash management committee has been formed to create a medium-term debt strategy for the Bahamas, Central Bank governor Wendy C

Bran to reject u-turn claim over marital rape law

DEMOCRATIC National Alliance leader Branville McCartney has scheduled a press conference for today to refute a Tribune headline he feels misrepresented his stance on the efforts to ban marital rape.

'I've never seen it like this before'

By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net Bahamas-based used car dealers have seen a significant drop off in business year-over-year, with one telling Tribune Business: "I've never see

Blaze destroys apartments

FREEPORT - Several persons are homeless after fire destroyed a four-unit apartment building in the Forbisher Drive area on Saturday.

Bethel Trucking response to Hot Mix editorial

Bethel Trucking response to Hot Mix editorial EDITOR, The Tribune. Re: Editorial of March 14,2012 headed "Bahamas Hot Mix meets internal standards" We represent Bethell's Trucking and Heavy Equipment Service Limited (the Company) and Mr Stanley Bethel

PLP did nothing for renewal

I SOMETIMES get frustrated when misinformation, be it intentional or out of ignorance of fact, is used to mislead people into thinking something is what it is not.

The destruction of Jumbey village

"NO, I can't believe it - that can't be true!" This was Coconut Grove MP's Ed Moxey's shocked reply in May 1974 when a news reporter called to ask what he thought of a report that government had planned to build a replica of his Jumbey Village at Fort Charlotte.

Smith sets out issues facing Nassau Village

Smith sets out issues facing nassau village PLP candidate for Nassau Village Dion Smith assured supporters that if elected, he will immediately set about addressing their concerns. Opening his constituency office on Saturday night, Mr Smith told the crow

Bid to launch e-classrooms

FREEPORT - Outlining his plans for change, FNM candidate for East Grand Bahama Peter Turnquest opened his constituency office on Saturday before an excited crowd of supporters.

Workshop debates human trafficking

NATIONAL Security and law enforcement officials from the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands and the United States of America took part in a three-day Trafficking in Persons Workshop over the weekend.

Mystery boat found abandoned in Abaco

AT DAYBREAK on Saturday, early birds noticed a large vessel listing on the rocks at the entrance to the Winding Bay lagoon just outside Marsh Harbour, Abaco.

No rejoicing for Caribbean travellers

By Sir Ronald Sanders Air transportation in the Caribbean has always been difficult. The news that a privately-owned, low-cost carrier, REDjet, has been forced to suspend its operations has made Caribbean air transportation even more problematic. Over th

Rural businesses shown off at Expo

FREEPORT - Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Larry Cartwright opened the second Agribusiness Expo in Freeport at the Goombay Park on Friday. It is the sixth of 12 Family Island Expos that will take place this year.

Carifta team ratified

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) has ratified a full 70-member team to represent the Bahamas next month at the 41st Carifta Games in Hamilton, B

Olympics: Anthonique qualifies for 100, 200

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net Anthonique Strachan came home and proved that she's fit and ready to compete this year. Strachan, who is now at Auburn training under coach Henr

Fifth place for juniors in Davis and Fed Cups

By RENALDO DORSETT Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net THEY fell short of repeating an historic feat last year but both the Junior Davis Cup and Junior Fed Cup teams still managed to deliver encourag

Monday, March 19

FNM supporters attacked by rivals

FNM CANDIDATE Peter Turnquest has called in police to find those responsible for a politically-motivated assault that left his daughter and several others injured.

BTC staff 'not underpaid'

THE Bahamas Telecommunications Company yesterday denied allegations that the majority of its line staff were underpaid.

Candidate turns crimefighter

BEN Albury, the DNA's Montagu candidate, used martial arts yesterday to restrain a thief who tried to escape from a defence force officer. The man was caught trying to break into the Chinese Embassy on Village Road.

'Apologise for documentary'

NATIONAL Security Minister Tommy Turnquest yesterday demanded an apology from the Australian journalist whose documentary depicted the Bahamas as a country under siege by crime and violence.

Two in hospital after shootings

TWO separate shootings left two young men in hospital over the weekend.

Police search for missing man

FREEPORT - Grand Bahama police are searching for a young man who has been missing for more than a week. David Keith Dean, 21, pictured, left his home in Mayfield Park, Freeport, on Friday, March 9. He has not been seen or heard from since.

Treasury staff to consider strike

STAFF at the Treasury Department are meeting today to decide whether or not they will take industrial action this week, The Tribune has learned.

Political police unit? Bring it on

IT is generally accepted that the use of law enforcement to intimidate or suppress political rivals is the sign of an authoritarian government.

Wozniak gets the victory

By RENALDO DORSETT Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net The finale of the second Bahamas Open Women's Tennis Tournament featured a thrilling, two-set match that went down to the wire. And it ended with a title win from Cana

The PLP promised, the FNM delivered

The PLP promised, the FNM delivered THE STRAW market, once hallowed PLP ground, turned ugly on Thursday when a group of PLP politicians arrived to look into complaints about malfunctioning toilets and insufficient stalls for vendors still waiting to set

Realism and the DNA

Realism and the DNA EDITOR, The Tribune. While I am enthralled with the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) and of a certainty they shall receive my vote, I am a realist and know that much of what is being espoused by the DNA will not easily be enacted u

All parties to face the same tasks

All parties to face the same tasks EDITOR, The Tribune. It matters who wins the upcoming election, but it really does not matter in terms of what a government has to do when elected. Right now, we have a lot of "union activity" and I guess that a lot

Police arrest nine in crackdown on driving offences

Police arrest nine in crackdown on driving offences By Brittany Kemp A NEW policing operation has been launched in New Providence, resulting in the arrest of nine people, 530 matters taken to court and 567 drivers being cited for various traffic offence