Saturday, March 31
UPDATED - Carifta 2018 Day one: Healthy medal haul for Team Bahamas
Team Bahamas is off to an impressive start with a 12-medal haul on day one of the 47th edition of the CARIFTA Track and Field Championships.
Friday, March 30
Haitian migrants deported after pleading guilty to illegal landing
One day after they were apprehended by the Defence Force off Governor’s Harbour, 89 Haitian Nationals were charged before the courts in Eleuthera on Thursday for violation of the Immigration Act.
Thursday, March 29
03292018 EDITION
Thursday, 29th March, 2018.
Haitian migrants arrested by Defence Force
NEARLY 90 Haitian migrants were arrested by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) early Wednesday morning, according to an RBDF statement.
Outrage over dog fight video
A VIDEO circulating on social media depicting a man encouraging a dog, believed to be a pit bull, to kill a smaller dog sparked outrage on Friday.
Boys arrested after 'dangerous drugs' found at high school
POLICE took three boys into custody after finding a small quantity of “dangerous drugs” at a high school in New Providence Thursday.
Hundreds expected at annual Pelican Point Coconut Festival
AS part of the Easter tradition in Grand Bahama, hundreds of residents and visitors will head to the East End for the annual Pelican Point Coconut Festival on Easter Monday.
Oban refinery - ’it makes no sense’
AS the $5.5 billion Oban Energies project forges ahead, some business and oil industry insiders are unconvinced a viable market exists for an oil refinery in the Bahamas and want to see the feasibility study conducted for the project.
‘Rules are there - just enforce them’
SKY Bahamas CEO Captain Randy Butler yesterday cautioned the government over the proposed licence control regulations for small-craft pilots, claiming the new rules only “over-regulates” an over-taxed industry currently fighting for survival.
Lawyers’ chief: We’re under attack
INCENSED over protracted delay in the appointment of a substantive chief justice, the Bahamas Bar Association yesterday suggested the constant undermining of democracy has pushed the country to an existential and constitutional crisis.
Blaze destroys Andros plaza
A FIRE erupted at Butler’s Plaza in Andros Wednesday morning, leaving the building completely destroyed, police said.
Artist brings joy to church show
ARTIST Jé-Rome Harris Miller’s latest exhibition, “Liquid JOY 2018…A Glorious Expression of Colours,” will open on April 5 at the Christ Church Cathedral Church Hall. Seven paintings by Mr Harris will be available. Part of the proceeds from the show
Official funeral for Moxey-Ingraham
THE Cabinet Office announced yesterday that an official funeral will be held for the late Theresa Moxey-Ingraham, former Cabinet minister, senator and parliamentarian, on Friday, April 6, at 11am at St Agnes Anglican Church on Baillou Hill Road. Int
Support for Adrian Gibson
Now, I read with interest on what is and has taken place at Water and Sewerage Corporation. An entity owned by the Bahamian taxpayers. Any government has a right to have an audit done, whether or not the Executives of that government-owned entity is appraised of it or not.
Post office relocation 'not as costly' a plan
THE government is satisfied the relocation of the General Post Office to an existing building on Gladstone Road will be “nowhere near” as costly as the previous options that were under consideration, Transport and Local Government Minister Frankie Ca
EDITORIAL: PLP’s position of convenience on the divestment of Crown Land
IT WOULD seem these days that one is damned if they do, damned if they don’t. Everyone seems to be crowing from different sides of their mouth.
DIANE PHILLIPS: What we feel when the familiar fades away, even when you weren’t a fan
ONE day after a crowd of 800,000 descended on Washington in the March for Our Lives demanding stricter gun control in the wake of the Parkland school shooting that killed 17 students, wounding another 17, Remington Outdoor Company, America’s oldest manufacturer of arms and munition, announced it was filing for bankruptcy.
Crimes and the solutions we need
CRIME — much of what we unfortunately experience is controlled by the Law of Averages.
Go Team Bahamas!
Team manager Courtney Wallace said the Bahamas’ 80-member team is ready for the staging of the 2018 CARIFTA Games at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium this Easter holiday weekend.The team went through a light workout session yesterday and is get
Coleby posts double double in final game of collegiate career
DWIGHT Coleby posted a double double in the final game of his collegiate career, but the postseason run for his Western Kentucky Hilltoppers ended in the National Invitational Tournament semi-finals.The Hilltoppers’ season came to an end in a 69-64 l
Minnis in a muddle
ISN’T a Minister supposed to have a hands-on knowledge of what is going on with at least the important projects in ones Ministry?
Cancer Society founder a shining light
Cancer Society of The Bahamas founder Susan Roberts has been honoured by the Queen in being named the 38th Commonwealth Point of Light. Mrs Roberts was chosen for this honour due to her “exceptional” volunteer work supporting cancer patients and the
Another promotion for 'Champ'
JERVIS “Champ” Stuart received another promotion in the New York Mets organisation, a week ahead of Minor League Baseball Opening Day. Stuart was assigned to the Las Vegas 51s, the Mets’ Triple A-affiliate in the Pacific Coast League. Based in Las
FNM Chairman says party won't be distracted by 'lies'
FREE National Movement Chairman Carl Culmer touted the Minnis administration’s efforts on job creation yesterday, including the controversial Oban Energies oil refinery for Grand Bahama, saying the party will not let the “lies and political attacks”
HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL NATIONALS BY THE NUMBERS
SEVERAL of the best high school basketball players in the country took full advantage of the opportunity to showcase their skills at the third edition of the National High School Basketball Championships.The Bahamas Basketball Federation along with t
PM Minnis to attend summit in Peru
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has been invited to address the third CEO Summit of the Americas, scheduled for April 12-13 in Lima, Peru. The CEO Summit, which will precede the two-day, eighth Summit of the Americas, is the most important business
Dames' call to communities
MINISTER of National Security Marvin Dames was the guest speaker at the monthly Bain and Grants Town Advancement Association’s community meeting held on Thursday, March 22. Mr Dames articulated the government’s development plan for Over-the-Hill, an
ATF trains Bahamas enforcement officials
THE Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives delivered a small arms identification training course for approximately 30 Bahamas customs and police officers from March 19-23 in Nassau. The training was funded by the ATF and was part of ongoi
BISX declares its first-ever dividend
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) has declared the first dividend in its near-20 year history, its chief executive joking yesterday: “This has made my job harder.”Keith Davies, BISX’s chief executive, told Tribune Business that the
Attorney: 'I want to say aircraft registry is finally happening'
The Government has been urged to fund a Bahamian international aircraft registry in the upcoming 2018-2019 Budget, an attorney saying: “I want to finally say this is happening.”Llewellyn Boyer-Cartwright, a Bahamian aviation law specialist, told Trib
'Radio Sebas' broadcasts for week without licence
Sebas Bastian’s radio station has been broadcasting for more than a week without a licence, industry regulators admitted yesterday, after its temporary permission expired on March 21.Stephen Bereaux, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority
Expert: Corporate taxation uncertainty 'helps no one'
A KPMG tax expert has urged the Government to “articulate their vision”, warning that uncertainty over corporate taxation’s introduction “helps no business”.John Riva, head of tax for the accounting firm’s ‘islands group’, which includes the Bahamas,
Bran slams 'damn pathetic' four-year solar system wait
The DNA’s former leader yesterday said it was “damn pathetic and frustrating’” that a state-of-the art solar system at his wife’s school continues to remain unused nearly four years after installation.Branville McCartney hit out at the Ministry of Wo
Gov't pledges support for $180m Pharmachem move
PHARMACHEM Technologies has retained two foreign engineering firms to oversee construction of its new $180 million facility in Freeport.Kevin Seymour, the company’s chief financial officer, said Integrated Project Services (IPS) and KPC International
The devastating impact of proposed IBC amendments
AS a manager, and sometimes a director, of more than 400 International Business Companies (IBCs) over the last 40 years, the need for the protections granted by the Constitution of the Bahamas were recognised by legal advisors around the world. This
Arawak Port operator eyes environmental certification
THE Nassau Container Port’s operator is seeking to obtain International Standards Organisation (ISO) environmental certification, as it works to determine and mitigate any impacts from its activities.Arawak Port Development Company (APD) executives s
Wednesday, March 28
03282018 EDITION
Thursday, 28th March, 2018.
Jamaican dancers and seven other foreigners face court
TEN foreigners were brought before the Freeport Magistrate’s Court for various offences this week including engaging in gainful occupation, overstaying, harbouring illegal persons and illegal landing.Among them were three Jamaican women who were empl
Sebas: We’re trying to protect players
ISLAND Luck CEO Sebas Bastian yesterday said criticisms aimed at web shops, particularly complaints of over saturation, were not backed by empirical data.
Police were on patrol in area at time of murder-suicide
ON the morning of a “tragic” murder suicide in Yellow Elder Gardens where a husband shot his wife to death before killing himself, Royal Bahamas Police Force officers were in the immediate area on patrol.
Christie govt slowed help for US on crime
CO-OPERATION between law enforcement agencies in the Bahamas and the United States “waned” under the Christie administration but has increased under the present administration, a new report from the US State Department says.
Post office finally given new home
MOULD and a broken air-conditioning system could soon be problems of the past for General Post Office workers, with press secretary Anthony Newbold revealing yesterday that Cabinet has decided to relocate the institution to the old Phil’s food store building on Gladstone Road.
Unlawful order led to ‘Bahamian nightmare’
CANADIAN Bruno Rufa has endured a “Bahamian nightmare” since being subjected to an unlawful deportation order, the Court of Appeal ruled yesterday.
Chipman fury: PM crossed the line
REECE Chipman, the Centerville MP fired as chairman of the Antiquities Monuments & Museum Corporation, said yesterday he is examining the country’s defamation laws and is considering suing Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for “insinuating” he had engaged in impropriety.
Plane hackers’ days numbered
TOURISM and Aviation Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday said he expects regulations that would restrict a pilot’s ability to classify flights as commercial or leisure to be reviewed and legislated within the “next month or two,” as part of a move to crack down on the deadly practice of “hacking”.
Bank manager bailed after appeal over account thefts
A FORMER manager at the Bank of the Bahamas sentenced to three and a half years in prison for stealing $21,000 from the savings accounts of several of the bank’s customers has been granted bail pending the appeal of his sentence.Acting Appellate Just
Foulkes blasts critics of shanty town census plan
LABOUR Minister Dion Foulkes yesterday pushed back at critics who have said a planned census for the 11 shanty towns in New Providence might fail because community leaders were not consulted ahead of the initiative’s launch.The census was slated to b
Dames: Cooper police plea a waste of time
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said he hopes Progressive Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper is not wasting the police’s time with his pledge to contact them about comments made by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis this week.
'Imperative’ that man jailed for 20 years given shooting retrial
THE COURT of Appeal has ordered a retrial “as a matter of priority” for a man previously sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison for the shooting death of someone he allegedly thought had put a bounty on his head.
Apple aims to school rivals with new iPad, education apps
Apple wants to play a more prominent role in education, but it isn’t willing to cut prices to make the grade.
Audit ongoing into BAMSI - but no date for release
THE forensic audit into the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute is still ongoing, Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Renward Wells said yesterday, however it is expected the report will be made public before the House of Assemb
Entrepreneurs urged to bring technological revolution
ASPIRING entrepreneurs were yesterday challenged to present creative indigenous projects with the potential to bring technological advancements to the country for the fourth edition of the OWN Bahamas entrepreneurship initiative. The number of succe
Power Women in the spotlight
EXPOSURE and information are key to ensuring that women have fair and equitable opportunities for engagement and advancement in the workplace, says Audrey Oswell, president and managing director of Atlantis, Paradise Island.
Crawfish season closes April 1
THE Department of Marine Resources has reminded the public of the closed season for harvesting crawfish, which runs April 1 until July 31. During this period, it is an offence for an individual to capture, have in one’s possession, kill or offer for
Beach access may reopen 'within two weeks'
THE collapsed stairway which forced the “temporary closure” of a public access path to Cabbage Beach could reopen within the next two weeks, according to officials at Atlantis who yesterday said repairs are now 75 percent completed. In an update on
Elections and talk of deficits
IT is rather funny but serious that today we hear regularly from the FNM that one of their highest priorities is to eliminate deficit budgets, but they do not explain what it will mean to us… wonder why?
EDITORIAL: Passport Office a throwback to a bygone era
THE Passport Office on Thompson Boulevard is a lesson in how not to run a government office or, for that matter, an office of any kind. It is a throwback to a bygone era.
Four-year partnership between BTC and BSF in its final year
THE four-year partnership between BTC and the Bahamas Swim Federation is now in its final year, and both entities are looking forward to another stellar performance at the CARIFTA Swim Championships in Jamaica this week.It all started four years ago
Education minister talking down
The Catholic Church has been the bedrock of The Bahamas, since time immemorial. The mission work that was once carried out by nuns and the church made its mark as it related to caring for the poor, sick and shut ins. The charitable outreach work is legendary and should be commended. In short the Catholic Church has been and is synonymous with caring for the least among us.
Transforming the national stadium
THE Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium is being transformed to accommodate the 26 visiting countries as they come to the Bahamas for the eighth hosting of the Carifta Games this weekend.While the cosmetic work was being done on the inside, patrons w
Swimmers ready to defend CARIFTA title in Jamaica
A 36-member team, made up of novice and seasoned swimmers, will make the trip to Kingston, Jamaica, on Thursday to defend the Bahamas’ title at the 2018 CARIFTA Swimming Championships.Following a practice session yesterday and before they paid a cour
Giants stay undefeated, Bucket take upper hand in semis
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants stayed undefeated and the Aliv Bucket took the upper hand in their respective best-of-five semi-final playoff series as the New Providence Basketball Association played a double header on Monday night.In the men’s divisi
New uniforms for Bahamas Association of Certified Officials
WHEN the Flow CARIFTA Games get underway on Friday with the official opening ceremonies, the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials will be smartly dressed in their new uniform - collar shirts.Janaees Uniform Centre owner James Wallace presented
Oban plan
I would like to know certain rather basic items from Oban Energies.
CULTURE CLASH: What really lies underneath this dress code for schools
What are you concerned about today? What is at the top of your list of qualms, battles to fight and issues to raise? It is always interesting to see what demands attention, riles us up and pushes us to take action. For so long we have been taking what has been dished out, finding ways to work around disadvantageous systems, and complaining in small circles.
NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity marks 2,000th day on red planet
NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity has now marked 2,000 days on the red planet.
TECH TALK
• Self-driving car spinoff Waymo will buy up to 20,000 electric vehicles from Jaguar Land Rover to help realise its vision for a robotic ride-hailing service.
Corporate taxation won’t ‘put two fingers up to EU’
The Bahamas does not need corporate taxation to escape its latest ‘blacklisting’, a KPMG tax expert yesterday saying: “That won’t put two fingers up to the EU.”
Baha Mar's lender needed 'incentivising' to finance completion
BAHA Mar’s financier had to be “incentivised” through government tax breaks to compensate Bahamian creditors and finance the $4.2 billion project’s completion, it has been revealed.The revised Baha Mar construction contract, worth $700 million and ta
Insurance chair urges: We must shed 'tax haven' label
THE Bahamas Insurance Association’s (BIA) chairman yesterday urged the country not to lose sight of ‘the bigger picture’ in using tax reform to shed its ‘tax haven’ label.Emmanuel Komolafe told Tribune Business that while corporate taxation may not b
Expert: Corporate tax 'is a five-year project'
A KPMG tax expert yesterday warned that a Bahamian corporate tax is “a five-year project”, adding: “You can’t rush it in nine months.”John Riva, head of tax for the accounting firm’s ‘Islands Group’, told local financial services executives that the
Bahamas urged totalk with EU over IBC 'grandfather'
THE Bahamas was yesterday urged to negotiate a ‘grandfathering’ clause with the European Union (EU) over the 20-year tax exemptions for existing IBCs.Paul Riva, KPMG’s head of tax for its ‘islands group’, including the Bahamas, suggested that the EU
Island Luck chief: IPO 'very soon'
ISLAND Luck’s Sebas Bastian yesterday said an initial public offering (IPO) of shares in the web shop operator remains in progress, with a formal announcement likely imminent.Mr Bastian, when asked if his long-promised IPO will go ahead, replied: “It
Marinas enjoy arrivals increases of up to 60%
Members of the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) have reported 2018 first quarter arrivals increases of up to 60 per cent, leading to predictions of an “excellent” full year.“The prospects for boating to the Bahamas look excellent for 2018,” said
Tuesday, March 27
Cultural festival brings hope to Marco City
THE first Marco City Cultural Festival was held on Saturday at the Mary Star School field, providing the opportunity for people to sell their products and services and artists to showcase their musical talent. There were live performances by Stileet
03272018 EDITION
Tuesday, 27th March, 2018.
Minnis: I was honest on Oban deal
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis says he was “upright” and “honest” in publicly addressing concerns about the Oban Energies oil refinery and storage project planned for Grand Bahama.
HIV drugs secured to avert crisis
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday moved to temper alarm over HIV/AIDS drug shortages at facilities in New Providence reported over the weekend.
PM: I was right to sack Chipman
WHILE telling reporters he will not reveal some of the details surrounding Centreville MP Reece Chipman’s firing as chairman from a government corporation, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he did what he believed was “right”.
Top cyclists Major, Colebrooke ready for Commonwealth Games
THEY are considered the top two local competitors, but cyclists Jay Major and Anthony ‘Biggie’ Colebrooke both know that it will take some international success in order to be contenders at the Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast, Australia.
Mystic Marlins claim two National Basketball Championships
AFTER a lopsided loss in last year’s national title game, the Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins set their sights on a rematch with the Jordan Prince William Falcons.
THE PRESS BOX: Cowboy Nation, here’s what to do with Dez Bryant
AFTER making multiple impressive moves during the second week of the NFL free agency period, including signing two wide receivers, ex-Jaguar Allan Hurns and ex-Bear and Bill Deonte Thompson...
Athletes burn up the track in the US
A NUMBER of Bahamians, including members of the University of the Bahamas and a few CARIFTA Games and Commonwealth Games bound athletes, were in action in a series of meets over the weekend in the United States.
The ideal female body type is getting even harder to attain
(THE CONVERSATION) – Day after day, we’re bombarded with so many media messages that rarely do we stop to think about what they’re telling us to think, do or feel.
How do dental anxiety and dental phobia develop?
Dental clinician Dr Sparkman Ferguson and clinical psychologist Dr Stephanie Hutcheson are introducing a new research project to explore dental fear and its treatment.
Questions from an FNM voter
I am writing because I have concerns with how things are going in this land as a Bahamian who voted FNM.
The Darkest Hour of EU relations
It seems apropos that the recently released movie “Darkest Hour” should come out simultaneously with the European Union’s latest bullying tactic, on weak jurisdictions, particularly in the Atlantic Caribbean arena.
Bahamian teens in ‘relationship crisis’
Youth advocate fights abuse affecting high schoolers
HIGH SCHOOL students in the Bahamas are experiencing a crisis. Where their friendships and romantic relationships should be light-hearted and fun in nature, in reality they are too serious, often abusive, and in some cases, bordering on violent. This, according to a leading youth advocate and domestic abuse survivor.
Calling all wise women
Festival to foster, celebrate sisterhood
Ladies, save the date – April 14 – as the Wise Women Festival is all set to “nurture the mind, body and spirit”.
Homicides down - but ‘one murder is too much’
WHILE lamenting the fact that “one murder is too much,” Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday said homicides are down considerably compared with this time last year.
Managing director leaves her role at Bank of The Bahamas
RENEE Davis’ tenure as acting managing director of the Bank of the Bahamas ended yesterday.
Interpol helps to train law enforcers
IN the worldwide fight against the illicit smuggling of radiological and nuclear material, some 40 law enforcement officials are participating in a four-day training conference in Grand Bahama organised by the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Interpol.
Govt ‘to address licensing for taxis and buses’
AN area of concern that has plagued successive governments in the country has been the leasing of government licences and franchises for taxis, tour buses, limousines and omnibuses by persons not engaged in the public transport sector.
Thompson silent over antiquities corporation audit
PERMANENT Secretary Jack Thompson was tightlipped yesterday over Auditor General Terrance Bastian’s probe into the Antiquities Monuments & Museums Corporation.
FACE TO FACE: Walking in her mother's footsteps
Some people come to The Bahamas and get sand in their shoes and they never seem to shake it out; returning to these islands again and again to be kissed by the Bahamian sun. That’s exactly what happened to Lady Caroline Simmonds.
Fogging for mosquitoes to begin tomorrow
ANSWERING the call of frustrated residents in eastern and western New Providence, the Department of Environmental Health is slated to begin fogging for pest mosquitoes tomorrow.
Former prison officer’s drug appeal dismissed
THE Court of Appeal has dismissed a former prison officer’s attempts at contesting his conviction for drug offences after ruling that it has “no jurisdiction” to overturn a conviction stemming from a plea of guilty.
RICHARD COULSON'S BUSINESS BITES - The Oban saga: Not all black
Light is beginning to appear dimly at the end of the tunnel – the dark and murky place we entered a little over a month ago. On February 19, Prime Minister Minnis used the full panoply of his office to celebrate the “ceremonial” signing of a heads of agreement (or something) calling for a $5.5bn refinery project on Grand Bahama to be created by an unknown Florida company incorporated less than two years ago as Oban Energies LLC.
Passport office says apply early
THE Passport Office is encouraging people to apply early for new passports this year.
BPL fraud case delayed by magistrate recusal
THE trial of five men charged in connection with a multi-million dollar theft scheme at Bahamas Power & Light was yesterday adjourned for two weeks after the deputy chief magistrate declared she was unable to proceed in the matter on the grounds of perception of bias.
PHA names new managing director
THE Public Hospitals Authority has announced the appointment of Catherine Weech as managing director effective March 1.
EDITORIAL: Bolton's spectre an unwelcome surprise
AMERICAN president Donald Trump continues to surprise us. Just not in a good way.
Strike a pose: New teachers strive to spread the word about yoga
TWELVE yoga instructors have completed an intense programme at Studio Ohana to become 200-hour certified vinyasa teachers.
Road Traffic Department supports one of their own during World Kidney Month
Genice Rolle is one of 195 million women worldwide affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD). The 55-year-old mother receives dialysis every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4am before heading to her job. She struts confidently into what she refers to as her “second home”— the Road Traffic Department (RTD) at the Thomas A Robinson Stadium — wearing her pink 2018 World Kidney Month shirt, pink accessories and a smile to match.
Seeing through the eyes of autism
FirstCare Announces 6th annual awareness essay contest
Challenging high school students to envision life from the perspective of someone with autism is the goal of the sixth annual FirstCare Medical Plan Autism Awareness essay contest.
Tabernacle Baptist Falcons emerge as national champions
A dominant season for the Tabernacle Baptist Falcons, where they reached nearly every possible milestone, culminated with the ultimate prize - the 2018 national title.
Five new homes in Queen’s Park development
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis addressed a ceremony yesterday for the opening of the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation’s Queen’s Park Urban Redevelopment Project.
IDB: Bahamas ‘4x costlier’ over company registration
Registering a company in the Bahamas is “four times’ costlier” than in developed countries, with less than 3 per cent of government procedures able to be completed online.
Galleria blasts ‘shocking’ verdict on copyright law
ATTORNEYS for Galleria Cinemas yesterday said the Court of Appeal had “shockingly misunderstood” copyright law in a ruling that revives a long-running claim against the movie operator.
IMF slightly premature on ‘turned the corner’ verdict
PRIVATE sector leaders yesterday said the IMF’s assessment that the Bahamian economy has “turned the corner” was slightly premature, one saying: “I’m definitely not celebrating yet.”
US urges ‘full safeguards’ on gaming sector
THE US government has identified “gaming” as a popular money laundering mechanism in the Bahamas, urging this nation to “emphasise enforcement” in its fight against financial crime.
Unions seek PM intervention over Morton Salt ruling
THE Bahamas’ two main trade union groups have written jointly to the Prime Minister seeking an “urgent meeting” over a Court of Appeal ruling they claim will “cripple” organised labour.
FirstCaribbean's New York listing step closer
FirstCaribbean’s parent has taken another step towards selling-off its ownership by filing a registration form with US regulators for the bank’s proposed New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) listing.The amount of shares, nor the price that they will be off
Record Easter for Nassau's airport
LYNDEN Pindling International Airport’s (LPIA) operator is predicting the busiest Easter weekend on record, officials said yesterday.“People in Canada and the US, who have suffered through a season of what felt like never-ending northeasters, are jus
Taxi union chief hails app team-up as 'perfect mix'
THE Bahamas Taxicab Union’s president yesterday said branded its partnership with a transportation-based mobile app as the “perfect mix”, suggesting it will help modernise the industry.Philip Watkins, speaking at a press conference to announce the un
Monday, March 26
Police investigate apparent drowning
POLICE are investigating an apparent drowning incident involving an adult man.
Man found shot dead in his car
A 34-year-old man was found shot to death in his car shortly before 3am yesterday, police said.
03262018 EDITION
Monday, 26th March, 2018.
Cooper: Minnis must resign over Oban
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper has called on Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to “spare us all any further headache” and resign for “misleading” the country on the $5.5 billion Oban Energies project, as he accused the nation’s leader of “flamming” Bahamians on the matter.
US: Bahamas ‘losing competitive FDI edge’
The Bahamas is “losing its competitive edge” on foreign direct investment (FDI) to Caribbean rivals as a result of its ‘ease of doing business’ woes, the US government has concluded.
‘Knee-jerk citizenship changes inhumane’
THE government’s plans to change the immigration law regarding citizenship has been labelled as inhumane and unconstitutional, by human rights attorney Fred Smith, QC.
Three dead in separate car crashes
POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding two separate traffic accidents in New Providence and Abaco that have left a man and two young women dead and several others in hospital in serious condition.
Chipman sacked after defying PM
AFTER defying Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ ultimatum to either tender his resignation or be fired, Centreville MP Reece Chipman was sacked as chairman of the Antiquities Monuments and Museums Corporation on Saturday.
Husband shoots wife, turns gun on himself
A MAN shot and killed his wife before fatally turning a weapon on himself in an apparent murder suicide in the home they shared at Yellow Elder Gardens early yesterday morning.
Antonique finds a guardian angel
Two month-old Antonique Munroe is headed to Florida today with her mother and grandmother to visit the Bascom Palmer eye hospital for much-needed treatment.
INSIGHT: Ignorance isn’t always bliss
OBAN Energies has been the talk of the town for well over a month. Certainly, more grey hairs must be popping up all over the prime minister’s head as what he thought would have been a huge win for an administration struggling to endear itself to the Bahamian people. Prime Minister Minnis beamed like a teenager on prom night sitting on the right of the now infamous Peter Krieger on the fateful day the Oban powder keg fuse was lit to explode.
INSIGHT: The truth about shanty towns - part 1
To many Bahamians, the informal communities that exist on New Providence and Abaco and some of the larger Family Islands are evidence of an invasion; signs of a hostile takeover or aggressive plague that must be eradicated by any means necessary. Meanwhile, the people who live in these communities are spoken of as if they are hostile aliens, dangerous social contaminants, hardened criminals who should be shown no mercy.
WORLD VIEW: External interference in Caribbean elections is real
BEFORE getting into the thrust of the serious and threatening matter that lies at the heart of this commentary, I declare that I was an integral part of the management of the campaign of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) for the March 21 General Election, and I managed its communications campaign.
Union challenge dismissed over variation of overtime
THE Court of Appeal has dismissed a union’s challenge to the government’s unilateral variation of its members’ overtime rate in 2010, after concurring with a Supreme Court judge that the union’s existence as the relevant bargaining agent was not valid at that time.
EDITORIAL: Bahamas must explore revenue sharing of our airspace
THE Tribune has been accused of misleading the Bahamian public in its report on Thursday that the Bahamas, unlike 180 other countries, remains among a small group of 20 generally poor, and geographically challenged African nations that neither charge nor receive any remuneration in “overflight payments” from airlines crossing their air space. All the other 180 countries charge for these overflights and by the end of the year have earned millions of dollars in overflight fees. Not so The Bahamas.
'It's time for purging the house'
It’s amazing in 2012 when the past administration, the PLP, won the election we had no talk of victimisation. Now because the people’s Government has the gonads to clean up and ensure there is transparency with the operations in the people’s place, it’s victimisation. My brothers and sisters of The Bahamas, I am employed at the Water & Sewerage Corporation, The executives, most of them, along with GM Laville, was not and still does not want to cooperate with the chairman and the board of directors.
Man shot as he stands on porch
A MAN is in hospital in stable condition after he was shot while standing on a porch of a home on Fleming Street on Friday.
Ingraham appointed as bar council representative to BFSB
THE Bahamas Bar Association has announced the appointment of Bar Council member Kelli K A Ingraham as the BBA’s representative on the Board of Directors of The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB).
Office of the Spouse?
IN the almost 45 years since our nation has achieved Independence, we have had four married male Prime Ministers. Naturally, this means we have had four women who have been the spouses of Prime Ministers.
Cyprianna farewell
I was so very sad to read of the recent death of Mrs Cyprianna Wilhelmina Wright-Fox. A truly charming Bahamian woman, she among others represented the best characteristics of a strong woman of grace whose work life painted a picture of building people, thereby contributing to building the kingdom of God on the job, with her family and by extension the community.
Final matchups set
The final matchups have been decided, setting the stage for a night of thrilling finishes at the 2018 Bahamas National High School Basketball Championships.
Jones returns home after stint in the WCBA
FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – For basketball superstar Jonquel Jones, the importance of representation of Bahamian women at the elite levels of the sport will continue to pay dividends as a younger generation has more examples of success to look to for inspiration.
Strachan: ‘I wanted to prove to everybody that I was fast enough’
IN the same year that she duplicated her feat as the Austin Sealy winner for the most outstanding performance at the CARIFTA Games, sprinter Anthonique Strachan went on to pull off the 100/200 metre double at the IAAF World Junior Championships to earn the year-ending IAAF Female Rising Star of the Year.
Gateway Academy to face Agape Christian in title game tonight
THE finale in the Family Island Division of the Bahamas National High School Basketball Championships will feature another matchup between league champions out of Bimini and Abaco.
High Flyers rout Stampers 82-57, Rockets top the Mingoes 77-72
THE Breezes High Flyers and the Rockets both took a 2-0 lead in their New Providence Basketball Association best-of-five semi-final playoff series at the AF Adderley Gymnasium Saturday night.
IBCs face ‘much damage’ through blacklisting Bill
THE Bahamas’ ‘blacklisting’ response threatens to “cause a lot of damage” to its IBC business and create “much less certainty” for the financial services industry, a top attorney is warning.
Tax reform key to get Bahamas to ‘mid-shore’
THE Bahamas will only gain “respite” from international regulatory initiatives if it implements a tax regime that moves it to “mid-shore”, a well-known attorney has warned.
Fears Oban controversy will deter other investors
OBAN Energies has moved to reassure its $5.5 billion project is ‘for real’ amid concern that the ongoing controversy could deter other investors from coming to Grand Bahama.
Unions unite to fight ‘catastrophic’ ruling
THE Trades Union Congress (TUC) is seeking permission to appeal a “catastrophic” ruling that takes Bahamian workers “back to pre-1942” to the London-based Privy Council.
Friday, March 23
03232018 EDITION
Friday, 23rd March, 2018.
Cashiers charged with stealing more than $400,000
FOUR cashiers at a local automotive services company in New Providence were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court on Friday charged with collectively stealing more than $400,000 from their employer over a two-year period.
DNA Interim Leader calls for pause, review of Oban deal
DEMOCRATIC National Alliance Interim Leader Chris Mortimer called for a pause, immediate review, and potential cancellation of the Oban Energies Refinery deal in a statement released Friday.
ACP Samuel Butler tells Genesis Academy 'life is a journey'
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Samuel Butler told students of the Genesis Academy that life is a journey and they must get back on the right bus that will take them in the right direction to becoming good citizens.
Save The Bays Chairman calls Govt's actions over Oban 'demonic'
THE government’s continued push of Oban Energies’ $5.5 billion refinery project amidst intense opposition is tantamount to treason, according to Save The Bays Chairman Joseph Darville, who on Friday slammed the move as “sacrilegious” and “demonic.”
UB North to host first economic conference on GB
THE University of the Bahamas-North will hold its first economic conference – The Sustainable Grand Bahama Conference – focusing on the economic prospects of the island.
PLP Chairman: Foulkes may have to fight his own party over shanty towns
THE government’s proposed census of shanty town communities could be slowed by persons within the Minnis administration, according to Progressive Liberal Party Chairman Senator Fred Mitchell, who on Friday suggested the promises made by the government before the 2017 election could limit its “political will.”
Chipman asked to resign as Antiquities Monuments and Museums Corporation chairman
Reports have reached The Tribune that Centreville MP Reece Chipman was today asked to resign by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis as chairman of the Antiquities Monuments and Museums Corporation.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Doubts and questions over Oban Energies deal
THIS week, Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis finally (sort of) addressed his government’s “missteps” with respect to the Oban deal, and our Deputy PM, K Peter Turnquest assured Bahamians the country would be off the European Union’s blacklist by May “at the latest.”
Questions over shanty town census
THE government’s decision to conduct a census starting with shanty towns in New Providence tomorrow has come as a surprise to Haitian community leaders who stressed the success of these efforts is predicated heavily on their involvement.
Lawyers file writ to free limbo inmate
THE 42-year-old schizophrenic man jailed for nearly four years without charge, will finally get his day in court next month.
Dhunna defends Oban to split GB audience
RESIDENTS of Grand Bahama took centre stage during a key town hall meeting for the Oban Energies refinery last night, with some expressing concern about the environmental impact of the $5.5 billion project and bitterness that consultation was not engaged with them before the Heads of Agreement was signed.
Forensic audit on health contracts
A FORENSIC audit will be conducted on contracts issued by the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) under the former Christie administration, with concerns agreements worth millions of dollars were issued “illegally” and “abnormally”.
Man seeking to appeal 50-year murder sentence
A MAN sentenced to half a century in prison for murdering another man as he was dancing with his girlfriend in a sports bar in Grand Bahama four years ago is seeking to appeal his sentence.
Students stage protest over mortarboards decoration ban
MORE than sixty students, faculty, and alumni gathered on the University of the Bahamas’ campus yesterday to protest the institution’s decision to ban the decoration of mortarboard hats and wearing of student organization stoles at graduation ceremonies.
Senior Doctors hit back at Sands over ‘non performing clinicians’ comments
A WEEK after junior doctors complained of their substandard terms of service in the public healthcare system, senior doctors did the same yesterday, focusing their ire on Health Minister Dr Duane Sands and his recent talk of “non-performing clinicians”.
IMF – Your economy has turned the corner
The IMF yesterday gave the Government a much-needed boost by declaring the economy has “turned the corner”, despite warning over continued fiscal and current account imbalances.
New Zealand man pleads guilty to overstaying
A New Zealand national was arraigned in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on charges of illegal landing and overstaying.
Davis asks: Is Krieger still around Oban?
DOCUMENTS filled in Florida last week show Peter Krieger is still a part of Oban Energies’ team, despite Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis saying in the House of Assembly on Tuesday that he resigned on March 1, Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis claimed yesterday.
Father and two sons charged after GB police operation
A 50-year-old man and his two sons were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday over allegations they were found in possession of over $1m in criminal proceeds following a major police operation in Grand Bahama earlier this week.
Mitchell hits out over management of the Fox Hill Community Centre
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Fred Mitchell criticised the management of the Fox Hill Community Centre in an open letter to his former constituents on Wednesday.
Bahamas rejects UN Human Rights proposals due to ‘Christian values’
THE Bahamas, in its United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) review last January, strongly rejected proposals to address discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity as they were seen as being against the country’s respect for Christian values.
EDITORIAL: RUSSIA’S LIKELY INVOLVEMENT IN POISONING INCIDENT IN BRITAIN
IT would not be surprising if British Prime Minister Theresa May is now reflecting on the well-worn dictum of her predecessor Harold Wilson in the mid-1960s that a week is a long time in politics. None can deny that a lot can happen in a short space of time in the political world, but even the most prescient of observers could not have predicted the poisoning atrocity earlier this month on British soil and the boost to her reputation as a result of her effective handling of this sudden major incident.
Bahamians in need of some 'good news'
I would venture to suggest that the majority of ‘right thinking’ Bahamians would wish to see the FNM administration succeed if only for the collective sake of the nation. Of course, partisan politics will always play a role in debates on public policy initiatives and most societal issues. The fact of the matter, however, is that Bahamians are in need of some ‘good news’ for a change.
Comments and queries of my guests
Recently I had house guests from northern Canada for 9 days.
Coleby and Hilltoppers secure berth in the NIT semi-finals
Dwight Coleby came up with two big defensive plays down the stretch to help the Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers prevail with a 92-84 win over the Oklahoma State Cowboys.
Top seeds prevail on day 1 of High School Basketball Nationals
TOP seeds won out as expected on day one of the National High School Basketball Championships at the St George’s Gymnasium in Grand Bahama.
Lavern Eve reflects on her Austin Sealy Award
IN what turned out to be her defining years as a junior athlete, Lavern Eve became the first of two Bahamians to win the Austin Sealy Award as the most outstanding athlete at the CARIFTA Games.
Swimmers come home to prepare for CARIFTA
ON their return home to prepare for the CARIFTA Swimming Championships, Izaak Bastian and siblings Samuel and Salene Gibson travelled on the same Bahamasair flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with the Bahamas’ three gold medal teams in the CARIFTA Water Polo Championships in Jamaica.
THE FINISH LINE: Water polo champs have made a case for their own training facility
MICHAEL Pintard, the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture made two announcements this week in the House of Assembly that grabbed my attention.
SPORTS NOTES
THE Breezes High Flyers and the Rockets took the initial lead in their respective New Providence Basketball Association’s best-of-five semifinal playoff series on Wednesday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium.
Ex-finance chief: Don’t let the EU ‘trump’ our needs
AN ex-finance minister yesterday urged the Government to place the Bahamas’ “true economic needs” above the European Union’s (EU) demands in its haste to escape the latter’s ‘blacklist’.
DPM pledges 2020 ‘balanced Budget’
THE Deputy Prime Minister last night pledged the Government’s commitment to a “balanced Budget by 2020”, and expressed optimism that current account imbalances will be “comfortably” dealt with.
Contractor chief backs 200% work permit rise
THE Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday said he would gladly back a ‘200 per cent’ increase in work permit fees for unskilled foreign labourers employed in the sector.
Pests beware: Merger combines 88 years of termination knowledge
TWO pest control companies with a combined 88 years’ experience will be able to take on more “large scale projects” following their merger under the Rentokil umbrella.
Nassau’s airport in 11-year arrivals high
LYNDEN Pindling International Airport’s (LPIA) operator yesterday reported that air arrivals for December 2017 and January 2018 were the highest in its 11-year history.
IAN FERGUSON: Don’t be too retiring about ‘golden years’
MANY employees are making the mistake of taking too long to prepare for retirement. After working diligently for more than 30 years, you should set yourself up financially for your golden years. The last 12 months before you call it ‘a day’ are especially critical to putting your retirement on a prosperous path. It is time to get your portfolio, health care and other finances in order so you can enjoy your new life. Here is short checklist of what each employee can do to prepare for the inevitable.
Hundreds of CLICO clients to lose medical insurance
SOME 700 CLICO (Bahamas) policyholders are set to lose their medical insurance after the insolvent insurer’s liquidator yesterday gave two months’ notice of their policies’ cancellations.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Tackling vectors for better design effect
IF you are confused over the difference between the many image file types, you are not alone. When beginning a branding project for a business, one of the first things requested from a client is a vector file logo. However, that request is often met with blank stares or responses such as: “Can’t you just pull the logo from my site?”
Customs unveils WTO readiness training plan
THE Customs Comptroller yesterday said the department’s Trade Sector Support initiative was proceeding at “full throttle” as it unveiled a two-year training programme with the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
Thursday, March 22
03222018 EDITION
Thursday, 22nd March, 2018.
Corporate taxation on the way for Bahamas
The Government’s planned legal reforms pave the way for the introduction of “corporate taxation” on a wide range of Bahamian financial services products, it was revealed yesterday.
Bowe voices doubts over Oban deal’s financing
GOWON Bowe, president of the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants, is not convinced the Minnis administration has secured “proof of funding” for the $5.5bn Oban Energies project.
Charged with killing bodybuilder
A 43-year-old woman was arraigned in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with the murder of a former Bahamian bodybuilder and powerlifter last weekend.
Coco Cay critics ‘need to be cautious’
DESPITE recent furore over Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s planned $200m expansion of Coco Cay, the Bahamas Environmental Science and Technology (BEST) Commission has been aware of the plans for “some time now”.
Former beauty queen lawsuit: ‘Throw it out’
A FORMER Bahamian beauty queen’s copyright lawsuit against the Ministry of Tourism “falls woefully short” and should be dismissed, the Government agency is demanding.
EU blacklist over end May ‘at latest’
The Deputy Prime Minister yesterday said the Government "trusts" the European Union (EU) will remove the Bahamas from its 'blacklist' by May 2018 at "the latest".
Shanty towns census unveiled
AS THE Minnis administration forges ahead with its crackdown on shanty towns, a census of people living in all 11 of these illegal residential areas spread across New Providence is expected to begin Saturday, Labour Minister Dion Foulkes has told The Tribune.
Commodore backs raising retirement age
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force Commodore Tellis Bethel yesterday called considerations to extend the mandatory retirement age of enlisted officers from 55 to 60 “necessary” to offset the personnel shortfalls being experienced.
Manslaughter appeal rejected
A CONVICT’S decision not to pursue his denial of the opportunity to be heard on an appropriate sentence for manslaughter before the London-based Privy Council proved “fatal” to his recent bid to challenge it on the grounds that it was unconstitutional, the Court of Appeal has ruled.
Four Haitians ‘tried to leave country with $33,000’
FOUR Haitian nationals, two women and two men, are due to stand trial in a month after denying allegations they attempted to leave the country with over $33,000 in “foreign currency” earlier this week.
Minnis rounds on critics of Labour on the Block scheme
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has hit back at critics of his administration’s Labour on the Block initiative, which has assisted approximately 1,000 people with jobs.
Man who set himself on fire dies in hospital
THE man who set himself on fire earlier this month in Eleuthera has died, the Royal Bahamas Police Force has confirmed.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Where, oh where, has my attention span gone?
Where, oh where, did our attention spans go? I lost mine somewhere between the cell phone, Kindle, Surface and life. Hopefully, I did not put in the laundry with the week’s linens or sock it away in a drawer like I did one time with $100 bill that would have come in so handy had I remembered it when needed instead of years later by accident when I didn’t.
Gomez: Why no more sales of cays to private buyers?
FORMER State Minister for Legal Affairs Damian Gomez called on Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday to explain why Crown cays won’t be sold to private buyers anymore.
Henfield surprise at Office of the Spouse criticism
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Darren Henfield yesterday defended the decision to establish the Office of the Spouse insisting yesterday the function would further enhance the work of the Ministry of Social Services.
EDITORIAL: Working for a more efficient civil service
THERE are those Bahamians who say that they are unhappy with the new government, because, after ten months in office, little has been done to turn the country around. Of course, the former government having left behind millions in unpaid bills so that there is nothing with which “to turn it around”, are encouraging these thoughts to try to cover their failed five years in office and create further confusion going forward.
Christian Council against poor
Since May 10, 2017, Bahamians from all walks of life have never seen the kind of insensitivity, cold and callous treatment ever experienced from any government. The Hubert Alexander Minnis led government has induced the most pain ever endured at any time on his people.
Stopping illegal migrants at Inagua
Fred Mitchell is still punch-drunk from the devastating defeat of his party in the last election and his own surprising defeat in the Fox Hill Constituency. That must be why he does not seem to be able to collect his thoughts in a rational way.
Thank you, Fred
Re: Fast track justice sends illegals home.
Lashann and Longhorns advance to Sweet 16
THE lone Bahamian left in the NCAA Tournament, Lashann Higgs continues the best post-season run of her collegiate career.
Franco named to roster for the Iverson Classic
The accolades continue to stockpile for Bahamian basketball prep star Franco Miller and a pivotal summer recruitment continues this spring as his decision on an NCAA programme looms.
‘It sucks when you lose a game and you don’t have any more’
HIS final season for the Michigan State Spartans ended prematurely with an upset loss in the NCAA Tournament’s Round of 32, but Lourawls “Tum Tum” Nairn was still able to exhibit the leadership that made him a star in the eyes of the coaching staff in East Lansing.
Jackson Brennen gets his ‘D’ licence certificate
BAHAMIAN Jackson Brennen, a former international soccer player, hit another milestone as he received his “D” licence certificate.
Sports Notes
THE University of The Bahamas will take a 22-member men’s and women’s track & field team to the University of South Florida Bulls Invitational to compete March 22-23 in Tampa, Florida.
National Cyber-Crime Strategy critical to underpin ‘tech hub’
THE Bahamas must develop a National Cyber-crime Strategy otherwise its plans to become a ‘technology hub’ will be “gravely affected”, the Attorney General’s Office has warned.
Scooter, jet ski operators shrug off US warning
BAHAMIAN jet ski and scooter rental companies yesterday said the latest US crime alert had not dampened what one operator described as an “exceptionally good” Spring Break.
Airport upgrade promise called ‘dream come true’
THE Government’s promise of improved airport facilities represents “a dream come true” for Long Island, its MP yesterday branding it as key to sparking an economic revival.
Wednesday, March 21
03212018 EDITION
Wednesday, 21st March, 2018.
UPDATED: 50 held in mass drugs raid
50 people were arrested on Grand Bahama on Tuesday morning in a joint operation between Bahamian and US law enforcement officers that resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of drugs and US cash, and several firearms and ammunition.
Mitchell raises flag over ‘full residency’
FORMER Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday questioned whether the government’s newly announced limitation on citizenship can be done constitutionally, expressing concern the change could grant a general right for permanent residency “to all and sundry”.
NOT FOR SALE: No more private islands
THE government will stop selling crown cays for private purposes, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced during his mid-budget communication yesterday.
Minnis admits Oban ‘missteps’
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis admitted yesterday his administration has made mistakes with the $5.5 billion Oban Energies project.
CULTURE CLASH: Missed the bus but not a day of joy and wonder
Transforming Spaces — an annual art bus tour in Nassau, Bahamas — was last weekend, and I took too long to purchase a ticket. It sold out quickly and so I was left to either sulk, or make my own way from gallery to gallery to see the work of Bahamian artists.
EDITORIAL: A chance for honest improvement
MINISTER of Health Dr Duane Sands has been brutally frank and forthright in assessing the state of public medical care in The Bahamas. He has warned us the system is failing us.
Man has appeal of plea deal sentence thrown out
THE COURT of Appeal has dashed a man’s hopes of contesting his 25-year sentence for raping a pregnant woman after burglarising her home seven years ago, as its judges said he knew what he was getting into when he voluntarily agreed to such a sentence.
Four Haitians charged with immigration breaches
FOUR Haitians were charged separately with breach of the Immigration Act in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court – three for illegal landing and one for illegal entry.
Bostwick to lead observers at Antigua and Barbuda vote
FORMER Foreign Minister and Attorney-General of The Bahamas, Janet Bostwick will lead a Commonwealth Observer Group to monitor the Antigua and Barbuda general election today.
Call to throw out WSC theft charges after witness no-show
THE ATTORNEY for one of three Water and Sewerage Corporation employees accused of stealing a fire hydrant from their employer yesterday called for the case against them to be dismissed after two key Crown witnesses failed to appear in court.
Two jailed for stabbing man to death
A MAN and 17-year-old were yesterday sentenced to 45 years in prison in connection with the stabbing death of another man in Nassau Village two years ago.
Plan for Ragged solar grid complete
WHILE still not giving a proposed timeline of when hurricane-ravaged Ragged Island is expected to be fully restored, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said techno-economic modelling for the island’s electrical grid has been completed.
No date yet for intelligence agency creation
THERE is still no timeline for the creation of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), but National Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday said there will be some developments in the “next few months or so”.
Historical society needs more members to survive
AFTER half a century in operation, the Bahamas Historical Society (BHS) is fighting for its survival amid inadequate cash flow and insufficient volunteers.
FNM still the best to govern
WHEN we threw the PLP out on May 10, 2017, I was relieved. I had never seen a governing party become so hostile to the people of the Bahamas.
Oban doubts
I am becoming more and more reticent to believe anything that comes out of OPM after the Oban issue and comments made after the positive signing of the Resort development for crowded Harbour Island.
Double trouble?
THE announcement of the appointment of Mrs Patricia Minnis to her titled appointment begs the question - constitutionally her husband, as Prime Minister appointed a Minister to be responsible for Women’s issues so now we have a duplication?
Tall tales of old times
RECENTLY, I had the privilege and pleasure of reading a book entitled, “Tales my brothers told me and other myths”, by Dorothea Davis.
Sprinters Fraser, Hart get set for Commonwealth Games
NOT since Derrick Atkins ran 9.91 seconds to win the silver medal in the men’s 100 metres at the IAAF World Championships in 2007 in Osaka, Japan, has there been a Bahamian male sprinter that was a serious contender for global success.
Water polo teams bring home the gold
Head coach Laszlo Borbely said Team Bahamas made sure they didn’t leave any hardware in Kingston, Jamaica, as they won all three divisional gold medals and carted off all of the individual awards in their dominating performances at the CARIFTA Water Polo Championship.
Resistance get away with 100-98 win over Bucket to take 1-0 lead in semi-finals
THE New Providence Basketball Association continued its postseason action on Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium with the Caro Contractors Resistance and the PJ Stingers winning the double header.
Thrower Calea Jackson too young to make this year’s CARIFTA team
ALTHOUGH she was considered to compete in the under-17 girls’ discus, Calea Jackson was a little too young to make this year’s team that will represent the country at the Flow CARIFTA Games over the Easter holiday weekend.
Key US markets up 15% for Easter peak
Tourism bookings from the Bahamas’ key US markets are up 15 per cent for the peak Easter period, a Cabinet minister yesterday urging businesses to “work harder” at exploiting this growth.
Work permit increase ‘rationale’ questioned
THE Chamber of Commerce’s labour head yesterday said he did “not understand the rationale” for raising work permit fees, amid warnings it will not reduce Bahamian unemployment.
Bahamas must ‘leverage’ EU listing into opportunity
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to “leverage” the European Union’s (EU) ‘blacklisting’ and reposition itself as an international business centre based on ‘physical presence’.
Sarkis: ‘No good cause’ to halt my $2.25bn suit
Sarkis Izmirlian says Baha Mar’s contractor has “no good cause” to seal the $700 million deal that is central to its demand that his $2.25 billion fraud lawsuit be halted.
Gov’t urged to join Morton Salt appeal
THE Government was yesterday urged to join a Privy Council appeal against Morton Salt, amid fears it will “alter the very existence of collective bargaining agreements in the Bahamas”.
PI condo targeting May finish after $50m spend
A revitalised Paradise Island condo project is targeting early May for second phase completion, having been transformed from a stalled eyesore via its new developer’s $50 million investment.
Gov’t hires consultant to review BIA systems
THE Prime Minister yesterday revealed that the Government has selected a consultant to review the Bahamas Investment Authority (BIA) and its investment policy framework.
Government mulls the Headquarters Encouragement Act to attract tech firms
THE Prime Minister yesterday said the Government was mulling a Headquarters Encouragement Act to entice technology firms and start-ups to domicile their head offices in the Bahamas.
Put Tripartite Council to work, parties urged
THE Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive yesterday urged the National Tripartite Council’s stakeholders to avoid grandstanding and “put the council to work”.
Labour chief hits out on Tribunal ruling enforce
THE Government’s top labour official yesterday described the Industrial Tribunal’s inability to enforce its own judgments as “one of the biggest disappointments”, along with the “frustrating” reluctance of employers to “show up” for conciliation meetings.
Tuesday, March 20
Work permit increase 'rationale' questioned
THE Chamber of Commerce’s labour head yesterday said he did “not understand the rationale” for raising work permit fees, amid warnings it will not reduce Bahamian unemployment. Peter Goudie, head of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Conf
UPDATED: Former Cabinet Minister Theresa Moxey-Ingraham dies age 67
FORMER Cabinet Minister Theresa Moxey-Ingraham died Tuesday morning at her home, according to a statement from the Free National Movement (FNM).
03202018 EDITION
Tuesday, 20th March, 2018.
PM admits missteps with Oban Energies deal
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis today in Parliament admitted his administration made a number of missteps regarding the controversial $5.5bn Oban Energies deal proposed for Grand Bahama.
GAME CHANGER: Miss age deadline and you’ll be permanent resident NOT citizen
PEOPLE born to foreign parents in The Bahamas but who fail to apply for citizenship by age 19 as allowed by law will only be granted permanent residency with a right to work, Immigration Minister Brent Symonette, pictured, announced yesterday.
Davis’ hands clean on water projects
CAT Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador MP Philip “Brave” Davis did not authorise controversial payments to Nassau Island Development (NID), the contractor for the multi-million dollar Gladstone Road Waste Water Treatment Plant (GRWWTP) that is unfinished despite a 91 percent cost overrun, Works Minister Desmond Bannister said in the House of Assembly yesterday.
Police raid uncovers $1m in cash
GRAND BAHAMA police seized $1m in cash and a large quantity of suspected marijuana and hashish in two separate raids yesterday.
Bethel orders probe on ‘limbo’ prisoner
AFFIDAVITS filed to petition FOR the release of 42-year-old Alfairs Agregory Higgs - who has been jailed for nearly four years without charge - state the mentally ill man has begun to lose track of time.
Three-time cancer survivor inspires new treatment approach
The heartbreaking story of a three-time cancer survivor who lost her daughter, sister and father to the deadly disease has inspired the launch of a new foundation to promote an alternative approach to treatment. One, that encompasses wellness of mind, body and soul.
Failure to stand erect? You are far from alone
Dr Greggory Pinto of Urology Care Bahamas talks erectile dysfunction and what can be done about it
Question: Greetings, Dr Pinto. I am a 54-year-old married man with diabetes and I have had worsening erection problems for nearly two years. I am embarrassed by the problem, which has affected my self-esteem.
Becoming a ‘successful product of life’
‘Stop making excuses’ is one of the key pieces of advice that success coach Sherrell Storr doles out regularly. And she has written a book that emphasises this approach to life. Her new book, “You Are a Product”, also promotes self-refinement and recognising one’s innate talents.
STEM educator makes research impact in the Bahamas and around the world
Dr Patrice Juliet Pinder is a Bahamian born, noted international STEM based researcher and scholar who is making research waves not only in her home country, but also in the United States, China, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Taxi drivers fear being ‘squeezed out’ of industry
Taxicab drivers in Grand Bahama gathered at the Road Traffic Department (RTD) on Monday fed up over alleged unfair practices they claim are going on at the harbour.
Ambassador to EU proposal in wake of blacklisting
IN THE aftermath of The Bahamas’ blacklisting by the European Union for being a tax haven, Financial Services Minister Brent Symonette says it might be time for The Bahamas to consider appointing an ambassador to the EU to increase dialogue on matters concerning this country.
Drug charge dropped after husband’s plea to magistrate
A POLICE prosecutor yesterday withdrew a drug charge against a woman whose husband previously begged and pleaded with the deputy chief magistrate to have her acquitted of the crime.
Office of the Spouse plan is approved by Cabinet
THE proposed Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister has been approved by Cabinet, with Patricia Minnis expected to take up a non-paying post alongside a clerical staff member “in a few short weeks”.
Extra pharmachem investment revealed during PM tour
The expansion project at Pharmachem Technologies in Freeport has significantly exceeded its original investment cost by some $60m and is now estimated to be around $180m.
Young girls taught the importance of financial literacy
Two leading charities focused on empowering young women joined forces with regional bank CIBC FirstCaribbean to promote financial literacy and entrepreneurship among young women.
Suspect in 2016 murder case is granted bail
ONE of three men allegedly involved in a murder plot that was executed some two years ago has been granted bail ahead of his trial by the Court of Appeal.
No tender process for road contracts worth $86m
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister revealed yesterday that nine road works contracts worth $86m collectively were awarded without a public tendering process under the former Christie administration.
First da house burned down, now centipede bite me
IN the wake of the fire earlier this month that destroyed much of his home, local street philosopher Locksley “Potcake” Thompson is still in need of assistance.
EDITORIAL: Republicans cling to Trump's sinking ship
LAST week was another tumultuous one for Donald Trump and his struggling American presidential administration. He lost one of his most sensible cabinet secretaries in casually dismissing Rex Tillerson as Secretary of State.
Heroes and heroines
Thank you for affording me the space to recognise some real heroes and heroines. The proprietors and caregivers at homes for the elderly and orphans throughout the country… having visited several of these homes on a regular basis I am moved by the dedication and compassion of these caring persons.
Oban Energies deal and the rule of law
THE Bahamas National Trust has come out strongly against the Oban Energies deal the Government has signed citing potential environmental damage to the nearby National Parks.
FNM MP warning
Re: FNM MP Warns: People Are Angry.
One-of-a-kind bistro offers job opportunities for special needs community
A first-of-its-kind for both the Bahamas and the Caribbean, Ty’s Place strives to offer opportunities to those in the community with special needs.
FACE TO FACE - A Blind Love: couple seeks help for baby’s surgery
They say love is blind. When in love, sometimes nothing can stop two people who desire to spend the rest of their lives together. Antoine and Abbie Munroe, who are both blind, have brought truth to this old adage in a positive way. Their testament of love is one so strong that despite the discouragement from many of their family members and friends, they married and now have a beautiful baby girl.
'Buddy Buckets' on fire
Buddy Hield is playing the most efficient basketball of his young career and despite the small sample size, his recent play suggests an upward trend in his numbers across the board.
Gibson and Gardiner pull off victories in Orlando
JEFFREY Gibson and Steven Gardiner, in their tune-ups for the 2018 Commonwealth Games next month, pulled off victories in different events they normally compete in at the University of Central Florida’s Black & Gold Challenge in Orlando, Florida, over the weekend.
Bahamians training for Boston Marathon
TRAINING partners Suzanna Eneas and Ryan Bethell will get the rare opportunity to carry the Bahamian flag at the prestigious Boston Marathon.
3rd National High School Basketball Championships set
CHAMPIONSHIP week was officially launched in Grand Bahama as the best high school basketball players in the island nation are set to showcase their skills at the third edition of the National High School Basketball Championships.
Annual Uncle Lou 10K run/walk race a morning of fun
THE numbers may have dwindled, but the competition was still intense as the Alumni Association of St Augustine’s College held its Annual Uncle Lou 10K Fun Run/Walk Race.
THE PRESS BOX: 5 ‘bargain basement specials’ still left in NFL free agency
THE Cowboys have made it crystal clear when it comes to free agency over the last few seasons. They will play the role of cheap, skin flint, comfortably.
The Steelers upset Enforcers in Mayaguana RBPF volleyball competition
THE Royal Bahamas Police Force celebrated their anniversary month in Mayaguana as the community team called The Steelers pulled off the upset against the Enforcers in their volleyball competition at the Pirates Wells Primary School on Saturday.
Excitement at your fingertips
Bahamian promoter launches new entertainment app
WHAT do you do when people look to you as a source for the what’s happening in on the local entertainment scene? Ashley Swaby’s response was to start her very own things-to-do app called S’Gern On.
Major reforms needed for GB ‘tech hub’ plan
The Government faces a massive task to make Grand Bahama a technology hub, a confidential report has revealed, despite hopes of attracting “hundreds of companies in months”.
Fears IBC ‘beauty’ lost over blacklist response
THE Deputy Prime Minister yesterday warned that “all” International Business Companies may have to submit annual accounts if the Bahamas is to escape Europe’s “blacklist”.
‘Amazing’ if Bahamas gets 50% chicken self-sufficient
AN Abaco poultry producer yesterday said it would be “amazing” if the Bahamas could produce even half the poultry it consumes “within two years”.
Financial industry’s ‘check’ on exceeding EU demands
THE Bahamian financial services industry will serve as a ‘watchdog’ to ensure this nation does “not go beyond what’s required” to escape Europe’s ‘blacklist’, a senior executive said yesterday.
Flats fishing advocates urge Oban’s relocation
BAHAMIAN flats/bonefishing advocates yesterday called for the $5.5 billion Oban Energies project to be relocated, warning: “We don’t want to find out” the impacts if it goes wrong.
‘No time for complacency’ over EU blacklist escape
A Cabinet Minister yesterday warned that “‘this is not a time for complacency” in efforts to ensure the Bahamas escapes the European Union’s (EU) ‘blacklist’.
BPL inks with Credit Suisse for $100m
BAHAMAS Power & Light (BPL) has executed an engagement letter with Credit Suisse for the provision of up to $100 million in interim financing, the Minister of Works said yesterday.
Web shops to go $3m above civic obligation
THE web shop industry yesterday said its 2018 civic and charitable contributions will exceed legal requirements by $3 million.
Commercial Enterprises Act: Three are approved
THREE applications have been approved thus far under the Commercial Enterprises Bill, a Cabinet Minister said yesterday.
Monday, March 19
03192018 EDITION
Monday, 19th March, 2018.
Triple gold in CARIFTA water polo
The Bahamas’ water polo programme continues its trend as one of the elite performers in the region with another series of championship performances at CARIFTA.
Mitchell: Flying court a mistake
THE Minnis administration’s decision to facilitate hearings on Inagua for 230 migrants accused of illegally entering the country last week is an unsustainable process, Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Chairman and former Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell said yesterday.
Foulkes sees urgency to solve shanty town crisis
ABACO residents yesterday suggested the island was “on the edge” of “serious tragedy” in coming months due to the government’s “inaction and mismanagement” of the ongoing shanty town crisis.
Bodybuilder stabbed to death
PAUL Melbourne, a 70-year-old man known for his athletic versatility, was killed Saturday at his home on McKinney Drive off Carmichael Road after arguing with a woman.
Left in limbo: Locked in Fox Hill three years ‘without charge’
A 42-year-old schizophrenic man has been held in prison without medication, charge or court date for more than three years.
Prison officer gunned down in street
A PRISON officer became one of the country’s latest murder victims over the weekend when he was killed at Tufa Close off Cordeaux Avenue on Friday.
BPSU trio want answers on funds - and for executives to be removed
THREE executives of the Bahamas Public Services Union are seeking to have seven of their peers removed from office - including President Kimsley Ferguson - over allegations of misappropriating funds.
Gaming Board workers seek $2m for dismissal
THIRTY former Gaming Board employees are seeking $2m in damages for their dismissal from the government agency last year, their attorney said on Friday.
Doctors at ‘breaking point’, union chief warns
AFTER years of enduring substandard working conditions and inadequate terms of service, doctors in the public sector have reached a breaking point, Dr Mucomba Miller, Acting President of the Bahamas Doctors Union, has warned.
INSIGHT: Why the cherry switch is a lot scarier than the tamarind switch
In the recent heated and vituperative public reactions to my Human Rights advocacy against the continued victimisation and abuse visited by the Government of The Bahamas upon our Haitian ethnic minority - and the vocal threats on my safety and life - I was moved to react to a particularly savage attack upon me in a voice note circulating widely on social media by a Mr Bannister, a self-proclaimed “True Born and Bred Bahamian”.
INSIGHT: Navigating the steep learning curve of leadership
AS we rapidly approach a year of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis being the nation’s leader, the landmark only a little more than a month away, we have seen a plethora of moments that made us want to cover our eyes in fear of what he would say next. However, this past week, while he should have still been feeling the bumps and bruises of the beating he took in the media for his egregious missteps on the Oban Energies deal, he is receiving something that has been largely unfamiliar thus far as prime minister – praise.
Revoke his citizenship?
I saw quite a few comments by irate Bahamians on a popular political Facebook page calling for the immediate revocation of prominent attorney and QC Fred Smith’s Bahamian citizenship after the Supreme Court “ordered the unconditional release of five persons and two minors from the Carmichael Road Detention Centre,” as per the February 27 edition of The Tribune.
Crime prevention scheme proving its worth in Grand Bahama
Deputy Police Commissioner Stephen Dean flagged the new National Neighbourhood Watch Council as “the most ambitious crime prevention programme” in the country during a walkabout in Grand Bahama last week.
EDITORIAL: The last Lucayan left standing
WHO is a true Bahamian? And what is a true Bahamian?
Time to cut off BAIC and clean up the mess
BAIC - if operated and owned by a private person they would have gone out of business years ago.
These people ain't making no sense
BOY some people are really annoying and when they are in the hospitality-service industry they must be exposed.
GAIN AN EDGE: The perfect career is within your reach
You have big dreams – that’s why you’ve been thinking about college. You’ve discovered a secret that many don’t know. You’ve discovered graduating from college is key to unlocking career doors in this rapidly changing world.
CARIFTA: 80-member track and field team ratified
WHEN the 26 visiting countries, led by perennial champions Jamaica, come to town over the Easter holiday weekend for the 2018 Flow CARIFTA Games, they will find a 80-member Bahamian track and field team waiting for them at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
Rockets stop the Regulators, Mingoes sweep Shockers
A PAIR of teams advanced to the semi-finals in the New Providence Basketball Association Division I playoffs Saturday night with sweeps in both series.
Taylor elected president of New Providence Softball Association
FOR the second time in its history, the New Providence Softball Association will have a female president after former player turned scorer Desiree Taylor was elected unopposed.
Higgs and Longhorns advance, ‘Tum Tum’ and Spartans fall
JUST one Bahamian player is left in either NCAA Tournament bracket following last weekend’s schedule of opening round games.
‘Why so jittery on income tax’?
Bahamian businesses need “a friend in government” if they are to successfully compete post-WTO accession, with one entrepreneur arguing: “What does it matter if we have income tax?”
QC: ‘Very difficult’ to combat EU if no corporate tax
A WELL-known QC has warned “it’s going to be very difficult to meet” the European Union (EU) and OECD’s demands unless the Bahamas implements a corporate income tax.
Minister’s ‘close eye’ on cruise line islands
THE Minister of Tourism has pledged to “keep a very close eye” on the cruise lines to prevent their multi-million dollar private island investments sucking economic benefits away from Nassau.
Tourism pledges ‘proactive reply’ to new US crime alert
THE Minister of Tourism has ordered his officials “to become a lot more proactive” in addressing US safety concerns, after the Bahamas was subjected to another ‘crime alert’.
Water Corp owed supplier $9m bill
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation owed $9 million to its BISX-listed water supplier at year-end 2017, after reducing volumes purchased from it by 13.2 per cent.
ISLAND INSIGHTS: Time to make Grand Bahama great again
BACK in the late 1980s, Freeport was once known as the ‘magic city’.
Unions fear for workers in WTO
TRADE unions are concerned there is no strategic plan to prepare the Bahamian workforce for World Trade Organisation (WTO) membership, describing this as a “major deficiency”.
Balance required on WTO accession talks
THE Bahamas’ World Trade Organisation (WTO) accession strategy must balance the needs of different industries to minimise any negative impact, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce’s (BCCEC) chief executive said.
Sunday, March 18
Minister's 'close eye' on cruise line islands
THE Minister of Tourism has pledged to “keep a very close eye” on the cruise lines to prevent their multi-million dollar private island investments sucking economic benefits away from Nassau.Dionisio D’Aguilar admitted to Tribune Business that the $2
Unions fear for workers in WTO
TRADE unions are concerned there is no strategic plan to prepare the Bahamian workforce for World Trade Organisation (WTO) membership, describing this as a “major deficiency”.Obie Ferguson, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) president, told Tribune Busi
Tourism pledges 'proactive reply' to new US crime alert
THE Minister of Tourism has ordered his officials “to become a lot more proactive” in addressing US safety concerns, after the Bahamas was subjected to another ‘crime alert’.Dionisio D’Aguilar told Tribune Business he felt the Government had “failed
Time to make Grand Bahama great again
BACK in the late 1980s, Freeport was once known as the ‘magic city’. Most people tend to remember it, and the rest of Grand Bahama, for what it once was: A lively, booming and diverse island where celebrities and Bahamians could both share the same s
'Why so jittery on income tax'?
Bahamian businesses need “a friend in government” if they are to successfully compete post-WTO accession, with one entrepreneur arguing: “What does it matter if we have income tax?”Peter Bates, The Sign Man’s principal, told Tribune Business he could
Balance required on WTO accession talks
THE Bahamas’ World Trade Organisation (WTO) accession strategy must balance the needs of different industries to minimise any negative impact, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce’s (BCCEC) chief executive said.Edison Sumner, addressing a breakfast at the
Saturday, March 17
One dead, two injured after shooting off Cordeaux Avenue
One man is dead and two others are injured after a shooting off Cordeaux Avenue on Friday night.
Friday, March 16
03162018 EDITION
Friday, 15th March, 2018.
Members of BPSU executive team seek vote of no confidence in president
A SHOWDOWN is brewing at the Bahamas Public Services Union that has put the job of President Kimsley Ferguson under threat.
Activist slams Royal Caribbean's $200m Coco Cay plans
LOCAL activists have expressed disgust at Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s planned $200 million overhaul of Coco Cay, its private island in the Berry Islands.
Man jailed for drug possession makes plea for wife's acquittal
A 46-year-old man sentenced to a year in prison on Friday for drug possession made a passionate plea to the deputy chief magistrate and the Crown to have his wife of less than 90 days acquitted of the crime.
WSC Management Union 'clarifies statements' about low morale
THE WATER and Sewerage Management Union yesterday denied the characterization of low staff morale at the corporation and expressed support for the government’s mandate and its executive management.
Deandre Ayton to enter 2018 NBA draft in June
AFTER much speculation, Bahamian Deandre Ayton has made it official with a “one-and-done” college decision to enter the 2018 National Basketball Association draft in June.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Dey can’ be serious with this political BS
After twenty years as a professional stand up comedian, it’s safe to say, I know what is, and isn’t funny.
Lloyd begs teachers: Be patient
EDUCATION Minister Jeffery Lloyd yesterday called grievances raised by the Bahamas Union of Teachers this week “legitimate,” but urged the union to be patient as the government works to “resolve the issues”.
Bethel: Any marital violence a crime
AS his office puts the final touches on amendments to the Sexual Offences Act, Attorney General Carl Bethel yesterday made clear proposed marriage controls shopped by the Bahamas Christian Council will not be accepted “quid pro quo”.
Water staff fear more heads to roll
THE termination of Glen Laville from the post of general manager of the Water and Sewerage Corporation could be the “tip of the iceberg,” insiders told The Tribune yesterday, adding there are fears others may be fired in the aftermath of Ernst and Young’s audit of the water provider.
QC Smith in thumbs-up for ‘flying’ magistrate
ATTORNEY Fred Smith, QC, praised the government yesterday for facilitating court hearings on Inagua involving migrants accused of entering the country illegally, though he said there remains a need to provide migrants with access to legal aid.
EDITORIAL: GROWING POWER OF CHINA’S LEADERSHIP
IN an inter-connected world with varying time zones, information is conveyed instantaneously to a global audience day and night and the newsworthiness of items is often overtaken as the media competes to be the first to report important events.
Epilogue To Ganja
IN Jamaica grass is heralded as the weed of knowledge. If you want to become wise light up a spliff.
Coleby and Hilltoppers advance with 79-62 win in NIT opener
Dwight Coleby and the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers advanced with a dominant win in the opening round of the National Invitational Tournament.
31-member team for the Commonwealth Games
THE Bahamas Olympic Committee yesterday announced a 31-member team that will represent the Bahamas at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, scheduled for April 4-15 in the Gold Coast, Australia.
Conviction thrown out for attempted murder of teacher
A SUPREME Court judge has rejected a jury’s attempted murder verdict against one of three men previously tried for the murder of former Queen’s College Elementary teacher Joyelle McIntosh.
‘Golden girl’ Pauline reflects on her Austin Sealy Award
ONE of the greatest honours for any athlete is to get a chance to represent their country in a major international competition before their home crowd.
Protestors demand that Bahamians benefit from country's natural resources
A SMALL group of protestors gathered in Rawson Square yesterday in a demonstration against the Minnis administration.
A year’s wait for trial of man accused of stabbing his father
THE man who allegedly stabbed his elderly father to death in his house off Faith Avenue south four months ago will stand trial in a year’s time in connection with the crime.
FNM to celebrate Sir Cecil’s birthday
THE Free National Movement will celebrate the birthday of the party’s founder, Sir Cecil Wallace Whitfield, who played a pivotal role in deepening the country’s democracy.
Road traffic worker fired in probe into fake licences
A ROAD Traffic Department employee has been terminated and is expected to face prosecution after allegedly being implicated in a forgery investigation centred on several “fake” licences identified by the department’s new $8m automated system.
Accused cleared of shooting man dead at Potter’s Cay
A MAN has been cleared of murdering another man the day before his birthday on Potter’s Cay Dock three years ago after a Supreme Court jury found him not guilty of the crime.
Hunt for school raiders
POLICE are looking for two suspects who were caught on surveillance footage during a break-in of a trailer at Windsor School off Frank Watson Highway.
Party before the church?
HOW many ordained Ministers of Religion sit in the House of Assembly today?
Cancel the Oban deal
PRIME Minister Minnis can and he would be highly recommended to cancel the Oban Energy Agreement as clearly the. Agreement is flawed in content and law.
Bahamas set to host Judo Junior World Championships
ONE of the most prestigious events for the international judo community is set to premier in the Bahamas as the country prepares to host the 2018 Judo Junior World Championships.
Injured Hield forced to stop fighting in the CAC qualifier
AFTER suffering a slight injury to his right elbow in his first fight, Carl Hield was forced to stop fighting in his second fight on Wednesday night at the Central American and Caribbean qualifying tournament in Tijuana, Mexico.
THE FINISH LINE: Like judo, ‘we need to see more non-traditional sports making leap forward’
THE Bahamas Judo Federation, one of the fastest progressing sports in the island nation, has advanced to another realm in securing the rights to host the Junior World Championships.
IC Junior Tennis Series returns to Albany in April
THE Winterbotham International Tennis Club (IC) Junior Tennis Series will continue at the Lleyton Hewitt Albany Tennis Academy on Saturday and Sunday - April 14-15.
Flow CARIFTA Games on track with $30,000 boost from Commonwealth
WITH the countdown to the start of Flow CARIFTA 2018 set for March 30 to April 2 in Nassau, Commonwealth Bank has announced a $30,000 donation to boost coffers for the host island nation.
SPORTS NOTES
Bahamas Olympic Committee president Rommel Knowles expressed their gratitude to the family of the late Barbara Thompson on her passing on Wednesday.
IDB: Only 22% of local companies ‘innovative’
The Government is targeting the ‘Blue economy’ and agribusiness for economic diversification in an environment where just 22 per cent of Bahamian companies “innovate”.
BAF gets Supreme Court approval as CLICO manager
The Supreme Court has approved the transfer of CLICO (Bahamas) remaining in-force insurance policies to BAF Financial’s management, Tribune Business can reveal.
Water Corp union: Forensic audit had to ‘dig deeper’
The Ernst & Young (EY) forensic audit into the Water & Sewerage Corporation needed to dig deeper, the head of its management union argued yesterday.
National debt strikes $7.9bn at end-2017
THE Bahamas’ national debt hit $7.882 billion at year-end 2017, coming close to the 70 per cent debt-to-GDP ‘danger threshold’ despite the upward revision to this nation’s GDP data.
Bahamas must be ‘more sophisticated’ in blacklist response
The Bahamas must employ a “more sophisticated response” to its ‘blacklisting’, a former Attorney General yesterday urging it to lobby for United Nations (UN) oversight of the matter.
Hotels team with Gov’t on Business Licences
THE Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) partnered with the Department of Inland Revenue and other government agencies to host a ‘Business License’ training workshop.
IAN FERGUSON: Plans for overcoming resistance to change
CHANGE happens. It happens everywhere and to everyone. It is inevitable that our workplaces will change. The leadership will change. The strategy will change. The vision, goals, objectives and core values will change.
Mail boats: It won’t be ‘business as usual’
A CABINET minister says it cannot be “business as usual” with the mail boat system, acknowledging the need for government intervention to improve the system.
Long Island losing hope over banking solution
LONG Islanders were yesterday said to be losing hope over regaining a full-service bank any time soon with Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) set to pull-out in the coming weeks.
Thursday, March 15
Long Island losing hope over banking solution
LONG Islanders were yesterday said to be losing hope over regaining a full-service bank any time soon with Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) set to pull-out in the coming weeks.Businessman Mario Cartwright, a director of the island’s Chamber of Commerce, to
Bahamas must be 'more sophisticated' in blacklist response
The Bahamas must employ a “more sophisticated response” to its ‘blacklisting’, a former Attorney General yesterday urging it to lobby for United Nations (UN) oversight of the matter.Alfred Sears QC told Tribune Business that the Bahamas should form a
National debt strikes $7.9bn at end-2017
THE Bahamas’ national debt hit $7.882 billion at year-end 2017, coming close to the 70 per cent debt-to-GDP ‘danger threshold’ despite the upward revision to this nation’s GDP data.The Central Bank of the Bahamas, in its quarterly economic review for
BAF gets Supreme Court approval as CLICO manager
The Supreme Court has approved the transfer of CLICO (Bahamas) remaining in-force insurance policies to BAF Financial’s management, Tribune Business can reveal.The approval, which is understood to have been granted last week, will free-up the insolve
Mail boats: It won't be 'business as usual'
A CABINET minister says it cannot be “business as usual” with the mail boat system, acknowledging the need for government intervention to improve the system.Frankie Campbell, minister of transport and local government, during his contribution to the
IDB: Only 22% of local companies 'innovative'
The Government is targeting the ‘Blue economy’ and agribusiness for economic diversification in an environment where just 22 per cent of Bahamian companies “innovate”.The Minnis administration’s plans to broaden the Bahamas’ economic base, which also
03152018 EDITION
Thursday, 15th March, 2018.
Family challenges fatal police shooting
A RELATIVE of a man shot dead by police on February 11 has defended his character, adding family members want justice for his death.
$45m deal signed for Harbour Island resort
THE government signed a heads of agreement yesterday with Michael Wiener, principal of 4M Harbour Island Limited, to develop a $45m world class tourism resort on Harbour Island.
AG – absent officers ‘no great concern’
ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel yesterday called the absence of two police officers in court proceedings related to the Cabbage Beach access case “difficult to accept but not unusual”.
Fast track justice sends illegals home
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis confirmed yesterday that he sent a magistrate to Inagua on Tuesday to convict and facilitate the deportation more than 200 Haitian migrants who were caught illegally trying to enter the country.
Davis: Minnis should get out of Oban deal
OFFICIAL Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday there are sufficient incidents of “misrepresentation” concerning the proposed Oban Energies oil refinery for Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to “extract” himself from the situation, adding given the current “cloudiness” of the project the Progressive Liberal Party could not support it.
Bahamas seeks $100m disaster funding facility
The Government is seeking a $100 million ‘contingent’ loan facility that will finance “extraordinary spending” in the wake of hurricanes and other natural disasters.
Hepburn and attorneys accused of trespassing
A Grand Bahama businessman and two Nassau-based attorneys accused of trespassing at a sewage treatment plant in the Lucaya area were arraigned in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Bahamas National Trust anger at ‘lenient’ turtle killing sentence
THE Bahamas National Trust has joined the chorus of conservationists expressing disappointment over the “lenient” sentencing of three people charged in connection with the possession and killing of an endangered loggerhead turtle.
Retrial for man jailed for sex attack on girl
THE Court of Appeal yesterday ordered a retrial for the son of former Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes, who was previously sentenced to ten years in prison for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl entrusted to his wife’s care six years ago.
DIANE PHILLIPS: How did the future get here so fast?
There is a phobia for just about everything. Fear of heights, fear of open spaces, fear of looking ridiculous, no just made that up. But the fear I find most relevant to all of us in The Bahamas is something I just learned the name of. It’s called Chronophobia and it is a fear of the future.
Auto show proceeds to aid toddler’s open heart surgery
ALTHOUGH he is only four years old, Ephraim Williams has already braved two open-heart surgeries and three catheterisations.
Gaming operators give $7.1m to help good causes in The Bahamas
GERSHAN Major, CEO of The Bahamas Gaming Operators Association, announced yesterday that the association will allocate $7.1m this year to civic and corporate philanthropy, as part of its statutory requirement.
New airports could cost $70m
TWO multi-million dollar airports are in the works for Exuma and North Eleuthera, Tourism and Aviation Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar announced yesterday, adding the new facilities could cost as much as $35m per project.
Death in Wulff Road was not murder
POLICE yesterday denied reports spread on social media which erroneously claimed a man found dead outside of a Wulff Road bar Monday was murdered.
15 years extra prison time for attempted killers
TWO men, previously sentenced to a decade in prison for attempting to murder another man in 2012, yesterday had their prison time increased by 15 years after the Crown successfully appealed their “unduly lenient” sentences.
EDITORIAL: When the going gets tough, run for the hills
WHEN Dr Hubert A Minnis, the novice prime minister, appointed a press secretary, the news was met with a strong positive reaction from media.
Oban are on a fishing expedition
MAY I give the Prime Minister and his cabinet some free advice on trying to get a refinery built.
No airport hotel
VANTAGE-LPIA or NAD, a wholly owned Corporation of the Government of The Bahamas is calling for interested parties with a minimum of ten years in hotel development to indicate their interest in developing an hotel at LPIA for transit passengers and the like.
Police shootings
I wonder why the choice of the Ministry of National Security to learn and be trained to counter police shootings should be somewhere seemingly in the US where so regularly we hear of numerous reports of police shootings certainly with some involving innocent young people.
Island Luck sponsors CARIFTA
The final opportunity for aspiring athletes to qualify for the 2018 Flow CARIFTA Track and Field Championships will take place this weekend and a new corporate partner came on board to sponsor the trials and next month’s main event.
Gymnastics Federation mourning loss of Thompson
GYMNASTICS Federation of Bahamas executives, family and friends are mourning the passing of President Barbara Thompson on March 14, according to a press release.
McPhee-McCuin and Dolphins eliminated in 1st round
HEAD coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin, sophomore forward Shalonda Neely and their Jacksonville University Dolphins saw their season come to an end in the opening round of the Women’s National Invitational Tournament.
Lashann and Longhorns advance to NCAA Tournament
FOR the third consecutive year, Lashann Higgs saw her programme advance to the Women’s NCAA Tournament following the “Selection Monday” process for the field of 64.
Team Bahamas in World Junior Tennis competition
THE Bahamas’ three-member boys team of Michael Major Jr, Anthony Major Jr and Dentry Mortimer Jr fought back yesterday at the World Junior Tennis Competition in Guatemala after losing to Honduras.
Sports Notes
THE New Providence Basketball Association opened its postseason on Monday night at the AF Adderley Gymnasium with the Caro Contractors Resistance and the Triple K Stampers taking the opener in the men’s division II encounters.
Water Corp fires general manager
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation yesterday sacked Glen Laville as its general manager in the wake of the Ernst & Young (EY) forensic audit’s findings.
DPM: We must review taxation after ‘blacklist’
THE Deputy Prime Minister yesterday said the Bahamas’ tax system must be reviewed following the European Union (EU) ‘blacklisting’, with the Government “praying” for a swift removal.
Gov’ts signals ‘go close your doors’ on Bahamasair
A Cabinet Minister was yesterday said to have sent a “go close your doors” message to private Bahamian airlines by reaffirming unlimited government support for Bahamasair.
Don’t ‘throw baby out in bath water’ on EU response
A former financial services minister yesterday urged the Bahamas not to ‘throw the baby out with the bath water’ in addressing the European Union (EU) concerns that saw it ‘blacklisted’.
WTO membership will aid blacklisting fight
THE Bahamas would be better able to defend itself against the European Union’s (EU) ‘blacklisting’ if it was a full World Trade Organisation (WTO) member, this nation’s lead negotiator argued yesterday.
Gov’t in $45m deal for Harbour Island
A $45 million Harbour Island resort development is expected to create 150 construction jobs and 70 permanent posts, it was revealed yesterday.
Wednesday, March 14
WTO membership will aid blacklisting fight
THE Bahamas would be better able to defend itself against the European Union’s (EU) ‘blacklisting’ if it was a full World Trade Organisation (WTO) member, this nation’s lead negotiator argued yesterday.Raymond Winder, addressing a Bahamas Chamber of
Gov't in $45m deal for Harbour Island
A $45 million Harbour Island resort development is expected to create 150 construction jobs and 70 permanent posts, it was revealed yesterday.The Government yesterday signed a Heads of Agreement (HOA) with 4 M Harbour Ltd for the redevelopment of the
Gov'ts signals 'go close your doors' on Bahamasair
A Cabinet Minister was yesterday said to have sent a “go close your doors” message to private Bahamian airlines by reaffirming unlimited government support for Bahamasair.Captain Randy Butler, Sky Bahamas’ chief executive, said Dionisio D’Aguilar’s c
03142018 EDITION
Wednesday, 14th March, 2018.
Don’t panic - EU’s ban won’t last long
The Government was last night “optimistic” The Bahamas’ blacklisting will be “quickly reversed”, suggesting the European Union (EU) had ignored top-level pledges to meet its demands.
FNM MP warns: People are angry
GOLDEN Isles MP Vaughn Miller said yesterday the Minnis administration is faced with an “angry” and impatient electorate who feel disconnected from the government.
Minnis aims to avoid ‘blindsiding’ on Oban deal
AS pushback mounts over the proposed $5.5 billion Oban Energies oil refinery and storage facility in Grand Bahama, the Minnis administration remained tightlipped over the deal yesterday.
Family prays for missing sailor
A RELATIVE of one of two men still missing at sea after a boating accident early Sunday morning said family members are holding on to hope the “good swimmer” is found.
Why did officers fail to appear?
FORMER Assistant Commissioner Paul Thompson yesterday called on the Royal Bahamas Police Force to give an account of why two of its officers did not show for court proceedings on Monday related to the Cabbage Beach access case.
The perils of fiscal budgeting
FISCAL Budgeting - there is always a problem when criticising as the incumbent Government is as guilty as the previous one - we certainly see that in our past 26 years’ experience.
‘Turtle killing sentence does not send a strong enough message’
ANIMAL rights activists are expressing strong disappointment over the “lenient” sentence handed down to three individuals in Grand Bahama this week for the illegal capture and brutal slaughter of an endangered sea turtle.
$2m to repair homes in GB
SOME $2m has been allocated for home repairs in Grand Bahama where some 6,000 homeowners have reported roof damage as a result of the two most recent hurricanes to hit the island.
Minister seeks ‘sober’ debate about marital rape laws
STATE Legal Affairs Minister Elsworth Johnson wants deliberations in the public domain about marital rape to be “sober” amid continued consultation of the drafted amendment to the Sexual Offences Act intended to criminalise non-consensual sexual intercourse between spouses.
Also proud of Penny
WELL Mr Aranha, your sigh of relief was short lived.
Rental car fraud duo to pay $4,000 back to firm
TWO of three men who fraudulently obtained a number of Hyundai vehicles from a local car rental company last month have been ordered to collectively pay the firm over $4,000 in restitution.
Bid to increase sentence on pair who robbed policeman
THE Crown is seeking to contest the two-year sentences of two convicts who robbed an off-duty police officer at gunpoint five years ago as he sat in his car.
CULTURE CLASH: In The Bahamas, marriage does not seem to be a good idea for women
It is rare for a news item to bring concerned pause. Our positions are usually clear; we care or we don’t care, and then we choose a side.
Thirty Gaming Board staff in court challenge
THIRTY former Gaming Board employees are due to appear before a Supreme Court judge on Friday in a bid to legally compel their former employer to reinstate them to their previous positions at the government agency, which they allegedly lost on the grounds of redundancy.
Thompson steps up her game
As a senior at Morgan State University, Danielle Thompson has been called upon to be more of a leader for the Lady Bears women’s division one tennis team.
Fun run/walk road race to remember ‘Uncle Lou’
LEVITICUS ‘Uncle Lou’ Adderley, one of the most influential Bahamian sporting personalities, will be remembered by the St Augustine’s College Alumni Association with the staging of another fun run/walk road race.
Big Red Machine earn trip to Penn Relays
IN addition to repeating as the overall champions of the National High School Track and Field Championships, the St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine booked three of the four spots for the relay teams that were awarded full rides to the prestigious Penn Relays.
Dean won’t be seeking another term as NPSA president
ALTHOUGH he’s now a newly elected executive of the Bahamas Softball Federation, Henry Dean said he won’t be seeking another term in office as president of the New Providence Softball Association.
Marital rape law attack on union
Just a few sentences so as to share my opinion and feelings on this marital rape issue. I think that the government should never have started a debate on such a holy and consecrated matter.
Turtle killer
Re: Hunt for turtle’s hammer killer.
EU warning to Bahamas: Tax system ‘harmful’
THE Bahamas was warned in late January 2018 that its tax system is “harmful”, with the European Union (EU) demanding a detailed action ‘plan’ to remedy “deficiencies” within one month.
BAIC suffers NIB pay delinquency
THE Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) “largely” failed to pay NIB contributions between 2012-2017 despite deducting these from employee salaries, it was revealed yesterday.
Bran: EU would blacklist Bahamas ‘no matter what’
THE DNA’s former leader yesterday accused Europe of being determined to ‘blacklist’ the Bahamas “no matter what” and force this nation to introduce a corporate income tax.
Gov’ts opponents: Did you ‘drop the ball’ on blacklist?
THE Government’s political opponents and financial industry executives yesterday questioned whether it had “dropped the ball” and provoked the European Union (EU) to deploy its “nuclear weapon”.
Tribune Radio names new sales manager
THE Tribune Media Group has appointed Kevin Darville to the role of sales manager at Tribune Radio Ltd (Radio House).
Chamber names new membership liaison
THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) has named Nicole Burrows as its communications and membership liaison.
Bahamas urged: ‘Roll with punches’ over blacklisting
THE Bahamas must be “methodical” and not reactionary in response to the European Union’s (EU) ‘blacklisting’, a well-known accountant yesterday urging it to “roll with the punches”.
Chamber unveils new membership specialist
THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) has named Bianca Lee as its new membership specialist with effect from February 19.
Tuesday, March 13
03132018 EDITION
Tuesday, 13th March, 2018.
Bahamas “blacklisted” by European Union
The Bahamas has been “blacklisted” by the European Union - despite a last ditch effort this week by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Financial Services to ward off the move.
Glenys demands: Were we misled?
BRANDING Oban Energies’ executives a “cornucopia of crooks,” Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin questioned whether the Minnis administration “misled” Parliament when a Heads of Agreement was tabled for the $5.5bn project proposed for Grand Bahama.
Cabbage Beach case collapses after officers fail to attend court
TEN people who protested against a blocked access point to Cabbage Beach two years ago will seek “substantial damages” from the government for being “maliciously prosecuted” in a case that saw 13 adjournments, multiple presiding magistrates and no appearance from the virtual complainant since the day it began.
Wet - but breaking no records
ALTHOUGH the recent rainy weather has been abnormal for March, the country did not experience record-breaking inches of rainfall, Chief Meteorologist Basil Dean confirmed to The Tribune yesterday.
Oban deal: We’ll never support it
Bahamas National Trust is “greatly concerned” about the location of the proposed $5.5 billion Oban Energies oil refinery and storage facility in Grand Bahama, saying it cannot “envisage any scenario” where it could support the controversial project.
PLP added 9,000 jobs to payroll
AN estimated 70 per cent of the contracts awarded to persons for government employment under the Christie administration did not go through the Ministry of the Public Service, Garden Hills MP Brensil Rolle said yesterday.
‘Turtle three’ given 500 hour work order
THREE people arrested for violation of the Fisheries Act, after cell phone footage went viral of a man killing a sea turtle with a hammer in Grand Bahama, appeared in the Eight Mile Rock Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Jones and Flame on brink of elimination
Jonquel Jones and her Shanxi Xing Rui Flame are on the brink of elimination and face an early deficit in the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association Finals.The Flame dropped the first two games of the series to the top seeded Beijing Great Wall as the
Donte defeats Ching in 1st round
DONTE Armbrister, the Bahamas No. 1 in Boys’ 18s and also currently the No. 1 ranked male internationally for The Bahamas on the International Tennis Federation junior circuit, is participating in the Panama Bowl ITF Junior tournament being held this
NPWBA: Operators knock off the Connectors 59-50, Angels stop Cheetahs 46-38
THE Bommer G Lady Operators and the Foxy Lady Angels won the New Providence Women’s Basketball Association double header played at the DW Davis Gymnasium on Saturday night.In the opener, the Lady Operators knocked off the Lady Connectors 59-50 and th
EDITORIAL: Our evolving respect for our environment
IN the mid-1980s, there was a dinner at a private home honouring a Bahamas National Trust guest speaker, a world-famous diver and underwater cinematographer whose documentaries had helped open the eyes of millions to the wonders of the undersea world. The main course featured what the Bahamian host believed was a fine Bahamian delicacy – sea turtle.
Winners shine in essay contest at St Augustine's College
St Augustine’s College has produced the overall winner of the annual economics essay competition held last month at Anatol Rodgers Senior High School in Nassau. Kiran Halkitis was judged to have written the best essay and came first in the competiti
More than 130,000 NIB contributions not processed
MINSTER of the Public Service and National Insurance Brensil Rolle yesterday revealed the National Insurance Board has not processed 133,130 contributions, suggesting thousands of Bahamians could not access benefits as a result of poor management und
Dwight Coleby and Hilltoppersaccept bid to play in the NIT
IT may not be on the main stage in the NCAA Tournament but several Bahamian NCAA Division I basketball players will still have postseason opportunities. Dwight Coleby, Travis Munnings and Calvin Anderson will be featured in tournaments as their prog
Suspected dealer charged with possession of drugs
SHARKEAL Belizaire was charged in the Eight Mile Rock Magistrate’s Court yesterday with possession of dangerous drugs and possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply.
Kavalas prepare to hold last luncheon for seniors
AS Dr Mallikharjuna Rao Kavala prepares to host his final senior citizens luncheon which has become a popular event on Grand Bahama, the physician’s legacy of service, kindness and caring for people will always be remembered. For the past 22 years, D
Standing up for one another: Navigating womanhood in the age of social media
Social media has been a beneficial tool for many women, serving as a platform to promote new businesses, share progressive ideas, and just simply connect with friends and celebrate life.
Autism students celebrated during "An Evening with the Stars"
Under the theme “An Evening with the Stars”, Blairwood Academy and Friends celebrated their students during the school’s first ever autism ball last Saturday at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.Blairwood Academy, a special education school located on Village
Kerrie Cartwright advances to the main draw
WITHOUT any time to celebrate her doubles victory with her American partner Kariann Pierre-Louis, Kerrie Cartwright was right back in action in her third and final 12th Lyttos Beach ITF Pro Circuit Tournament in Heraklion, Greece.Cartwright, 25, pull
THE PRESS BOX: A look at three potential 1st round picks for the Cowboys on defence
LAST week we looked at three potential first round picks at wide receiver for the Cowboys, picking No. 19 in this year’s draft. This week we look at three potential first round picks on the defensive side of the football. Derwin James, S, FSU Jame
Hunt for missing men from capsized boat continues
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force is assisting in the search for two people who went missing at sea on Sunday after their vessel capsized. Four other occupants of the boat – Don Smith, Alan Rolle Jr, Karkin McLuaglir (a Honduran) and Doswell Coakley —
The people's time to clean up our doorstep
I REMEMBER when I spent a few months in Virginia and my friends were all excited to go to the beach. Virginia Beach is the spot, according to them, and it was a big deal for them. They were preparing to drive from Richmond fully outfitted with towels
Nearly 300 Haitian migrants detained
NEARLY 300 Haitian migrants in three different groups were apprehended in the southern Bahamas over the weekend.The migrants’ arrests were a result of three separate operations by law enforcement off southern Inagua Sunday night.The migrants are curr
Agencies to work together on coastal security
MINISTER of National Security Marvin Dames announced the government will establish a multi-agency law enforcement coastal security programme to mitigate threats against the country’s borders and national security. His announcement came at the Royal
Putting women first
Power breakfast focuses on corporate advancement
THE global celebrations for International Women’s Day, which was recognised on March 8, may have ceased for the time being, however, the push for progress, which was this year’s theme, has not.And in order to see this year’s theme realised, Bahamas F
In celebrating International Women's Day what are we really cheering for?
As the Bahamas celebrated International Women’s Day last Thursday it is interesting to see that we have so fully embraced the language without the matter.Yes, women have advanced a great deal in the world, and in Bahamian society in general, but at t
Overcoming dental fear
Dental clinician Dr Sparkman Ferguson and clinical psychologist Dr Stephanie Hutcheson are introducing a new research project to explore dental fear and its treatment.
Boxer Carl Hield qualifies for CAC Games
DESPITE the fact that he left on a “wind and a prayer,” Carl Hield can now breath a sigh of relief after qualifying for the Central American and Caribbean Games.Not deterred by the Bahamas Amateur Boxing Federation’s disclosure that there wasn’t any
BTVI graduates Nomanique and LucyLu follow their dreams
Since she was a little girl, Nomanique Bain had a passion for all things beauty. That passion stayed with her through years of completing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounts to the day she enrolled at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) to pursue her studies in Cosmetology.
Bahamas selected to host Judo Jr Worlds
PREVAILING over several developed nations that vied for the honour, the Bahamas has been chosen to host the Judo Junior World Championships in October this year, announced D’Arcy Rahming, president of the Bahamas Judo Federation.The Junior Worlds are
Bahamas celebrates another theme night with the Miami Heat
FOR the past five years, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation has been celebrating a theme night with the Miami Heat organisation, as part of its cultural exchange and partnership. On March 1, they did so again, during the Heat’s game against
Minnis 'called out' on Schooner Bay
A BAHAMIAN businessman yesterday challenged the Government to demonstrate its support for local entrepreneurs after a new front erupted in his battle with a foreign developer.Glen and Tracy Kelly, who were previously evicted from their Crown Land far
Galanis ‘blindsided’ by Minister’s attack
A BAHAMIAN accountant yesterday admitted he was “blindsided” by the Minister of Housing’s attack on his firm’s integrity during the mid-year Budget debate.
Bahamas 'failed to read tea leaves' on corporate tax
THE Bahamas’ failure “to read the tea leaves” and introduce a corporate income tax “for ourselves” has contributed to Europe’s planned ‘blacklisting’, a financial executive argued yesterday.Paul Moss, Dominion Management Services’ president, told Tri
Customer’s 20-year ‘concrete block’ to Water Corp cut-off
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation gave $5.9 million back to consumers over 21 months, while one delinquent customer “blocked meter access” with concrete to enjoy uninterrupted supply for 20 years.
Job fairs create 900 New Providence jobs
ALMOST 900 persons on New Providence have gained jobs through the Labour Department’s ‘Labour on the Blocks’ employment fairs, its top official revealed yesterday.Robert Farquharson, director of labour, said: “The ‘Labour on the Blocks’ events have b
Aliv launches in Long Island
ALIV says it has been making “excellent progress” with its service roll-out, a top executive saying it has more than 100,000 subscribers to-date.Damian Blackburn, the chief Aliv officer, said: “We promised the people of the Bahamas that we would roll
NIB's IT woes cause 43% productivity fall
THE National Insurance Board’s (NIB) information technology (IT) challenges have caused a 43 per cent decline in productivity, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday.Brensil Rolle, minister of state for the public service and National Insurance, lamen
Chamber to 'monitor trade mission returns'
THE Bahamas Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive yesterday said the organisation will be “monitoring the returns” from its trade mission to Washington DC last week.Edison Sumner told Tribune Business: “The trade mission went extremely well. We met w
Tourism pitches to US businesswomen
THE Ministry of Tourism has sold the Bahamas’ benefits to more than 1,200 influential businesswomen from across the US.Already a corporate sponsor of the Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit (BEWOP), the Ministry took centre stage at the final lunc
Monday, March 12
03122018 EDITION
Monday, 12th March, 2018.
Hands off Lighthouse Point plea
ENVIRONMENT groups from across The Bahamas have come together to launch a petition to save Lighthouse Point, a historic Eleuthera landmark residents fear could be destroyed by major capital development if not protected. “Lighthouse Point is one of t
Davis ‘out of the loop’ on botched contract
FORMER Water and Sewerage Chairman Leslie Miller defended Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday insisting in many ways the former minister of works was “left out of the loop” regarding Nassau Island Development’s receipt of a $9.6m contract with the WSC under the previous Christie administration.
Man shot by police after high-speed chase
TWO suspected armed robbers, one of whom was shot by police, are in hospital after crashing into a utility pole as they attempted to evade arrest.
US family confirms body is their son
THE family of an American man who was swept into rough seas at Queen’s Bath, south of the Glass Window Bridge in Eleuthera last week, said his body was found “atop a cliff” not far from where he disappeared, according to international news outlets.
‘Ceremonial signing is binding’
OBAN Energies President Satpal Dhunna has said Peter Krieger, the company’s non-executive chairman, signed a heads of agreement with the Bahamas government during a “ceremonial” event at the Office of the Prime Minister three weeks ago because he, Dhunna, could not make it.
Two missing as boat capsizes
TWO men are missing at sea after a vessel was reported by the Bahamas Air Sea Rescue Association to be in distress at sea.
Last-ditch bid to halt EU blacklist
The Deputy Prime Minister and minister of financial services were yesterday travelling to Europe in a last-ditch bid to plead the Bahamas’ case against being ‘backlisted’.
$500k – for hole in the ground (still, it is very big…)
THE Minnis administration is considering acquiring an existing building in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera to house a clinic that can suit the health care needs of that settlement, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands told The Tribune yesterday.
SAC are National Champions
A total of seven made the qualifying standards for the CARIFTA Games and at least 12 records were broken as the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture concluded their National High School Track and Field Championships on Saturday night as the Big Red Machine took home another overall title to St Augustine’s College.
EDITORIAL: Trump polls rise despite poor leadership
The image of American President Donald Trump that seems universal is of him with a self-satisfied, smug smirk on his face. But as he careens carelessly around issues about which he studiously refuses to inform himself, he continues to threaten America’s place and standing in the world.
WORLD VIEW – The OECD: A robust response required
SMALL states, including those in the Caribbean, are justifiably troubled by the continuous efforts by the member states of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to cripple every initiative they take in the financial services sector.
Two are accused of murder attempt
TWO men were charged with attempted murder in Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Lucius Fox receives Major League call-up
LUCIUS Fox notched another career milestone and became the second Bahamian this offseason to receive a Major League call-up during Spring Training.
Fishing equipment confiscated as 70ft yacht stopped in Exumas
A 70-foot sport fishing yacht was stopped and had its fishing equipment confiscated while attempting to fish in The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, according to the Bahamas National Trust.The BNT said the national park is a “no-take zone” and fishing t
Casey ends win drought at Valspar after Woods’ late charge
PALM HARBOR, Fla. (AP) — Paul Casey closed with a 6-under 65 and won the Valspar Championship yesterday after watching Tiger Woods come up one putt short of a playoff.
Bahamian players get bids into field for March Madness
WHEN the dust settled on “Selection Sunday,” four Bahamian players and their respective universities received bids into the 68-team field for the NCAA Men’s Division I Tournament, commonly referred to as “March Madness.”
Cox caps off collegiate career with 2nd in 4x400m relay
WHILE she didn’t make it in an individual event, sprinter Carmiesha Cox capped off her collegiate career by running the third leg of Purdue University women’s 4 x 400 metre relay to help the Boilermakers pull off a second place finish at the NCAA Division One Indoor Championships on Saturday in College Station, Texas.
Miller president of Bahamas Softball Federation for another 3 years
TED Miller, receiving the overwhelming support from the delegates, was returned to the helm as president of the Bahamas Softball Federation for another three years.
Cartwright and American partner win doubles title
AFTER they both got ousted early in their second tournament at the Lyttos Beach Hotel in Heraklion, Greece, Bahamian female pro tennis player Kerrie Cartwright and her American partner Kariann Pierre-Louis made sure that they didn’t suffer the same fate in doubles.
Minnis govt 'played politics' over EU blacklist risk
EXUMA and Ragged Island MP Chester Cooper suggested yesterday the Minnis administration played politics when it came to the possibility of The Bahamas being blacklisted by the European Union as a non-cooperative tax jurisdiction. This threat, he sai
INSIGHT: Don’t fool yourselves - we can see through the smokescreen
THE Bahamian political playbook must have tattered dog-ears on pages revisited by politicians old and new – “when in doubt, distract the Bahamian people with something the previous government did!” Its predictability and overuse has become so exhausting in our culture.
INSIGHT: Oban's another bitter pill for us all to swallow
The rapid fall from grace of this FNM government is becoming painful to watch.
How you can play a part in helping to fight crime
Crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility, not just law enforcement. One of the best ways to take an active part in crime prevention is to become more alert and aware of what is going on around you.
Cash shortage leaves hospital staff having to ventilate by hand
CASH shortages in the public health sector have delayed the acquisition of six critically needed ventilator units at the Princess Margaret Hospital, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands.In an interview with The Tribune over the weekend, the El
11th annual Ride for Hope cancer fundraiser takes place in Eleuthera
RIDE for Hope hosted its 11th annual charity cycling event in Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera over the weekend, with a total of 150 riders participating to raise money for cancer initiatives in the Bahamas. RFH co-founder Susan Holowesko Larson said o
Turtle killing
I don’t have the mental toughness to view a 41 second Facebook video of a purported Grand Bahama male resident bludgeoning the head of an obviously distressed sea turtle.
Education need
READ your excellent leader article about Grand Bahama (Feb 20th) and agree with what was written. However, along with imagination we need Education.
Discrimination
SO we are going to celebrate discriminating Women’s Day-week.
Antigua and Barbuda withdraw from summit preparation
Antigua and Barbuda have withdrawn from participation in the second preparatory meeting for the Summit of the Americas scheduled to be held in Lima, Peru next month. Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the Organization of America
Roberts: EY had ‘no right’ to probe political decisions
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation’s (WSC) forensic auditors have “no right to question” politically-led decision-making, a former chairman has blasted.
DPM blasts blacklist threat as 'premature'
THE Deputy Prime Minister has slammed the European Union’s (EU) threatened ‘blacklisting’ of the Bahamas as “premature”, and effectively accused it of ‘changing the rules of the game’.K P Turnquest told Tribune Business that the “timeline” given by t
Miller brands Oban project as 'a hoax'
AN outspoken former Cabinet minister has branded the $5.5 billion Oban Energies project “a hoax”, and blasted: “It will not happen.” Leslie Miller, who was minister of trade and industry from 2002-2006, told Tribune Business there was “no need” for t
Bahamas blacklisting ‘came out of left field’
EUROPE’s planned ‘blacklisting’ of the Bahamas has “come out of left field”, a former financial services minister expressing fears over the potential fall-out for correspondent banking and custodial relationships.Ryan Pinder, now a Graham, Thompson & Company attorney and partner, warned that the European Union’s (EU) branding of this nation as ‘non-cooperative’ in the fight against tax avoidance could result in foreign financial institutions viewing the Bahamas as ‘high risk’.
LETTER TO THE BUSINESS EDITOR: Why Wal-Mart’s big box does not fit the Bahamas
Kindly allow me space to reply to Richard Coulson’s February 25 letter to the editor, and to the public at large, with further insight on why Wal-Mart or a similar company entering the Bahamian market is not a good thing for the country.
Strategic 'blacklist' response needed for EU 'upper cuts'
THE Bahamas must gather all stakeholders to “brainstorm and strategise” on a response to the European Union’s (EU) ‘blacklisting’ threat and “ever-changing rules of the game”.Gowon Bowe, the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) president
'Not ready to call a crawfish bust'
THE Bahamas Commercial Fishers Alliance (BCFA) president yesterday said that while he was not ready to label the 2017-2018 crawfish season a ‘bust’, it had been “rough”.Adrian LaRoda told Tribune Business that with two weeks left in the season, he wa
Friday, March 9
PLP Chairman: Fred Smith efforts 'cowardly'
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Senator Fred Mitchell has branded the recent efforts of human rights attorney Fred Smith, QC, and his backers as "cowardly" and "indiscriminate," further imploring the Minnis administration to quickly amend the laws to add clarity as to who has the right to be granted citizenship.
FNM Chairman urges Davis to 'come clean' over contracts
FREE National Movement Chairman Carl Culmer has urged Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis to “come clean” and give a full disclosure to the public of every contract handed out when he served as Minister of Works.
UPDATED: Govt 'disappointed' by European Union blacklisting
FINANCE Minister K Peter Turnquest suggested the government was blindsided by the European Union’s decision to blacklist the country for being a tax haven, adding it was “disappointed” to learn of the move in light of having been engaged with the European Union on listing criteria as late as last week.
Haitian man pleads guilty to landing illegally, possession of fraudulent document
A Haitian man was taken before the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on charges of illegal landing and possession of a fraudulent document.
GB MP: Oban a step in the right direction
GRAND Bahama MP Iram Lewis, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Utilities, is hailing Oban’s proposed $5.5 billion oil refinery for East Grand Bahama as a “step in the right direction,” despite strong criticisms from the opposition, environmental activists, and others.
Parents: All we want is justice over son killed in car crash
THE wreath marking his death sits atop a stunted tree on Tonique Williams Darling Highway, its presence enduring like his parents’ pain and heartache.
‘Guardian angel’ Davis brands audit a witch hunt
ADMITTING to being a guardian angel to many people over the years, Official Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis branded the EY audit into operations at the Water and Sewerage Corporation as nothing more than a “witch hunt” that has wasted taxpayers’ money.
Sands: $6.6m for clinic to see five patients a day
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday accused the former administration of going forward with the $6.6m upgrade to the Smith’s Bay Clinic in Cat Island despite a nearly 40 per cent decline in visits to clinics on that island in the past decade.
Insight: Oban’s ‘powerhouse’ partner
A partner in the Grand Bahama refinery project vowed last night he would not support the project going ahead without it passing stringent environmental tests.
Potcake needs ya help, folks
AFTER his home caught fire last week Thursday, local street philosopher “Potcake” is appealing to the public for assistance.
Auditor reveals emails saying: ‘We need to deal with FNM cronies’
AUDITOR EY’s report into the Water & Sewerage Corporation highlights how intertwined politics has been in the operations of the institution, revealing obscene rows with a political slant, calls for victimisation of Free National Movement “cronies” and apparent political patronage for Progressive Liberal Party supporters.
Crime falls – despite cops’ cars crisis
OVERALL crime is down 14 percent, National Security Minister Marvin Dames said yesterday, adding Bahamians can rest assured criminal activity in the country will continue at reduced levels, lessening fear among citizens.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Ducking and dodging questions on Oban
This week, we watched as our “newish” government continued to duck and dodge questions surrounding their proposed dubious deal with Oban, and learned that the last Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) government was exactly who we thought they were.
Finding love through faith
For the Christian who believes God must have forgotten them because their prayers for love have gone unanswered, a local singer has two new anthems to encourage and uplift.
EDITORIAL: FREE TRADE AND WTO MEMBERSHIP
IT is said economists rarely agree about either the theory or practice of their chosen subject. Two of them studying the same data may come up with vastly different judgments, since their fundamental philosophy and approach may vary. Some will favour government intervention in monetary and fiscal policy while others will believe in free-market economics.
Red-tinted spectacles
I write in response to this week’s intemperate attack on human rights attorney Fred Smith, QC, by regular contributor, The Graduate. In that letter, Smith was warned to beware the dangers of hubris by a writer who seems oblivious to the fact that his own words drip with an unthinking arrogance typical of those whose party has recently returned to power.
Cheques for home repair issued in GB
THE Ministry of Public Works has started distributing cheques for roof repairs to homeowners with storm-related damage in Grand Bahama, Iram Lewis, parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Public Works, revealed in the House of Assembly yesterday.
Too many appeals, police killer told by court
A CONVICT’S legal bid to contest his life sentence for murdering a police officer on a Family Island two decades ago has been dismissed because he tried to appeal his sentence too many times before the appellate court, whose judges this week said amo
$232m Sandy Bottom Project delays blamed on previous government
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday blamed extensive delays in the $232m Sandy Bottom Project on the complacent and poor governance of the former Christie administration.Mr Dames, in his mid-year budget communication in Parliament, indi
THE FINISH LINE: Ayton emerges as one of the top prospects in NBA Draft
CONGRATULATIONS to Bahamian DeAndre Ayton. He’s on his way to becoming the next Bahamian to play in the National Basketball Association. With just one year of college under his belt at Arizona, Ayton has emerged as one of the top prospects in the NB
Government High alumni committee gifts school computers
LAST month, during a student recognition ceremony, the GHS Class of 87 Alumni Committee presented Eloise Whymns, school principal, with three laptops, a desktop computer, a printer and two picnic tables on behalf of the Class of 1987.Last year, the c
Tennis Academy makes impact
WITH a goal of trying to get the sport into as many primary schools as possible, Impact Tennis Academy completed its pilot programme by hosting the third grade students of Centreville Primary to a full day of activities at the Balmoral Club Tennis Co
Commonwealth Bank Giants complete perfect regular season
AFTER falling short of their ultimate goal the last two seasons, the Commonwealth Bank Giants completed a perfect regular season, but head coach Perry Thompson Sr said it won’t mean anything if they don’t go all the way and win the New Providence Ba
Preparing for a transformative Cursillo weekend
Pray for candidates. Candidates chosen for a Cursillo weekend should be baptised, confirmed Anglicans who can be counted on to return to their environments for the purpose of witnessing to the power of the Holy Spirit in their own lives.
Anglican Church Women plan for a successful year ahead
The Anglican Church Women of the Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands was formed in 1963 with a mission to enhance the spiritual growth and development of women who will share the gospel message with others, become actively involved in mission and ministry, and participate fully in the work of the Diocese.
Meditation – Total health
How do you treat the temple of the Lord? Is your mind renewed and your spirit transformed?
SPORTS NOTES
Kevin B Williams was the men’s top scorer in the Financial Bowling League competition on Wednesday night at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Centre.
Special Olympics needs your support
IN their one year lead up to the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games, Special Olympics Bahamas is appealing to the general public to throw their support behind their national team as they prepare for the competition and securing the necessary funding to make the trip to Abu Dhabi.
Can’t afford Carifta event
CARIFTA - $19m costs and seemingly we don’t have that?
US Embassy honours environment activist
ON March 8, recognised globally as International Women’s Day, the US Embassy hosted a reception at Liberty Overlook in honour of Fotini “Sam” Tsavousis-Duncombe, the embassy 2018 nominee for the Secretary of State’s Award for the International Women
'Nosedive' in WSC morale
MORALE at the Water & Sewerage Corporation has taken a nosedive after EY’s critical audit report, the latest sore point for an institution that was able to resist controversy until recently, General Manager Glen Laville said yesterday.
Double murder trial adjourned
THE trial of three men accused of double murder and armed robbery in Grand Bahama has been adjourned until March 19. Paul Belizaire, Devaughn Hall, and Kevin Dames face two counts of murder and one count of armed robbery of a Deadman’s Reef couple.
Limousine driver fears being locked out from Sandals travel
A BAHAMIAN limousine driver has accused a local luxury resort of operating a car service to high-end guests which deprives registered industry drivers of a large percentage of revenue.Kendal Culmer told The Tribune that limousine drivers are being “s
'Faster, Further, Higher': Corporate Bahamas on board
CORPORATE Bahamas who pledged their support to the 2018 Flow CARIFTA Games were officially recognised at yesterday’s press conference, hosted by the event’s Local Organising Committee.Under the theme “Faster Further, Higher”, the North America, Centr
Rental car fraudsters ordered to pay company back
THREE men who admitted fraudulently obtaining Hyundai vehicles from a local car rental company last month have been ordered to reimburse the company the amount of funds they swindled. Akeem Storr, Sean Bain and Sean Roberts stood before Chief Magist
Athletes qualify for CARIFTA at Track & Field Nationals
The 29th National High School Track and Field Championships opened at Thomas A Robinson National Stadium with a morning session of finals in the field and highlighted by a night of sprint hurdle finals on the track.
Anglicans celebrate youth month
CHRIST the King Anglican Church recently wrapped up its month-long celebrations that recognised and inspired many young people in the community.
A groundbreaking achievement
New Bethany seeks to battle anti-social behaviour in Englerston
Members of the Righteous Revolution Youth Ministry of the New Bethany Baptist Cathedral are proud to have recently broken ground on a new community park on Key West Street.
Leslie Miller plaza lease among 'handcuff' deals
The 10-year lease of Leslie Miller’s Summerwinds Plaza is among the deals the Minnis administration is blaming for “handcuffing” its financial plans, Tribune Business can reveal. Government contacts, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed to t
Revenue Unit's life extended following $120-$150m score
THE Government has extended the life of its Revenue Enhancement Unit by one year, following a “very successful” 2017 first half when it collected between $120-$150 million.K P Turnquest, the Deputy Prime Minister, told Tribune Business yesterday that
Miller: EY ‘stooped so low’ over my lunch bill
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation’s (WSC) immediate past chairman yesterday blasted Ernst & Young (EY) for “stooping so low” as to challenge his $2,900 meal expenses.
Plant ‘not handled in people’s best interest’
A PROJECT vital to the Government meeting its Baha Mar obligations was “not handled in the Bahamian people’s best interests”, a former Water & Sewerage chairman admitted yesterday.
Minister plans 'LPIA type experience' for Nassau cruise port
THE Government is planning to create an “LPIA experience” at Nassau’s major cruise port, with the Minister of Tourism yesterday describing the major lines as “receptive” to the upgrade.Dionisio D’Aguilar, having recently returned from the Seatrade Cr
Magistrate hits out after yet another adjournment bid
THE chief magistrate yesterday hit out at the Crown’s “sense of entitlement” after it requested yet another adjournment to serve voluntary bills of indictment on one man and another individual accused of attempting to murder two police officers durin
World Kidney Day puts the spotlight on Women’s Health
WORLD Kidney Day was celebrated globally on Thursday.
Water Corp: Board meddling breached global ‘best practice’
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation breached global ‘best practice’ through the former Board’s constant meddling and overturning of management decisions, a forensic audit has found.
Transport app teams with Aliv
A BAHAMIAN transportation-based mobile app has partnered with Aliv to provide an “on-demand” taxi service.The Bahamas Ride app, which officially launches on April 12, will be available for Apple and Android devices. The service is expected to roll-ou
IAN FERGUSON: Guiding workplace leaders of the future
MENTORSHIP is not a new term in the corporate environment. For centuries we have had formal and informal mentors teaching, training and preparing the next generation of leaders. Mentorship is typically defined as the relationship in which a more expe
Thursday, March 8
03082018 EDITION
Thursday, 8th March 2018.
VAT cash ‘fuelled immoral spending’
AS the former Christie administration committed an “immoral” fiscal travesty while in office between 2012 to 2017, the government’s direct debt mushroomed from $3.9bn to over $6.5bn, Finance Minister K Peter Turnquest revealed in Parliament yesterday.
BPL: Nine fail drug testing
NINE employees at Bahamas Power and Light were terminated this week after taking part in random drug testing, Bahamas Power & Light Chairperson Darnell Osborne confirmed yesterday.
What a stinker – daming report reveals extent of problems at WSC
AUDITOR EY has painted a damning picture of the Water & Sewerage Corporation in its audit report of the institution, portraying a corporation awash with irregularities.
Turtle slaughter: three held
POLICE have arrested three people – two men and a woman – in connection with the brutal killing of a Loggerhead turtle on Grand Bahama.
Cooper blasts govt on Oban
EXUMA and Ragged Island MP Chester Cooper railed against the $5.5bn Oban Energies deal proposed for Grand Bahama, telling the House of Assembly Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has “embarrassed” the Bahamian people by parading a “convicted criminal” as a partner with the government for the investment.
Firearm found
A firearm found in the business area of Freeport was turned over to the Central Police Station, police reported.According to ASP Terecita Pinder, a citizen discovered a .38 revolver in the area of Logwood Road and took it to police.In a second incide
Darville: Where is safety report?
DR Michael Darville, former Minister for Grand Bahama, is criticising the Minnis government for not tabling and making public a report on the safety assessment study undertaken in communities near the industrial park in Grand Bahama.
Dangerous materials used in Eleuthera water tanks
WHEN a whistleblower partnering with a local firm to provide water services to Eleuthera residents alleged that “improper and dangerous materials” were being used to line tanks, Water & Sewerage Corporation’s General Manger Glen Laville dismissed the concerns and never shared them with the board of directors, auditor EY found during its audit of the corporation.
Seven people rescued as they are swept off Glass Window Bridge
SEVEN people had to be rescued from waters off Eleuthera yesterday after being swept off the Glass Window Bridge by severe sea swells.
‘Friend’ of WSC manager given $3.2m contract
A WATER & Sewerage Corporation employee, described as a “close friend of” General Manager Glen Laville, secured a lucrative $3.2m contract with the corporation despite being fired twice, auditor EY said in its report.
Two accused of overstaying their time in the Bahamas
TWO people were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday in separate incidents for overstaying their time in the Bahamas.
EDITORIAL: Forensic Audit needed for PMH
TODAY The Tribune sends out an SOS requesting information that might lead to the Public Hospital Authority locating its missing ambulances.
Bahamian Bonaparte
Fred Smith, Esquire, QC, needs to be reminded of the very arduous lesson that French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte found out the hard way in 1812. With his Grande Armée (the largest in the history of war at that time) he had all of Europe at his feet but then he overplayed his hand and invaded Russia only to be rebuffed and humiliated.
For export only
Thank you, Editor, for allowing me to express my serious concerns. I am eternally grateful.
Proud of Penny
On page 3 of today’s Tribune, I scoured the lengthy report on the “$30M BRIDGE” at Glass Window, and breathed a sigh of relief that there was no mention of the misnamed “Caribbean side”.
Dive instructor risks extra year in jail with appeal
A SCUBA diving instructor with just five months left to serve in prison on firearms related offences is challenging a previous firearms related conviction, though he currently faces the risk of serving an additional year in prison if that appeal is u
DIANE PHILLIPS: Now why didn't I think of that?
It’s official. As of this week, Jeff Bezos, age 54, is the richest man in the world and the first on Forbes magazine’s richest people list whose net worth tops $100bn. For anyone who has spent the last 20 years under a rock studying whatever lives u
Turnquest: 865 fewer people in public sector
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest pushed back yesterday against the claim of major public sector firings under the Minnis administration, saying 865 fewer people were employed in the public sector between June and December
Bid for more time for appeal
A MAN sentenced to 20 years for killing a man in the course of a botched armed robbery six years ago is seeking more time to appeal his sentence. Errol Knowles stood before Court of Appeal President Hartman Longley, fellow appellate Justice Jon Isaa
Delay in sentence challenge as suspect is taken ill
THE substantive appeal for a man seeking to contest his 45-year sentence for murdering a former ‘most wanted’ suspect seven years ago was adjourned by a month because the appellant is ill. Appellate President Sir Hartman Longley, Justice Jon Isaacs
Champ Stuart gets spring training call up with Mets
For the second consecutive season, Champ Stuart has received a spring training call up with the New York Mets organisation.
Lyford Cay International School hosts its 6th annual KPMG Football Fest
LYFORD Cay International School (LCIS) hosted its 6th Annual KPMG Football Fest last weekend.
NCAA players ready for Championship Week
CHAMPIONSHIP Week is the prelude to the NCAA Tournament’s “Selection Sunday” with several Bahamians and their respective universities attempting to earn automatic bids into the eventual 68-team field.
Women's Week events to conclude with march on Saturday
UNDER the theme ‘Press for Progress’, a week-long series of events marking Women’s Week and International Women’s Day will culminate in a march on Saturday. March organisers Equality Bahamas said this year’s events focused on bodily autonomy and cre
New section enacted in Freedom of Information Act for whistle blowers
PROTECTIONS for whistle-blowers in the Freedom of Information Act 2017 (FOIA) were brought into force this month.FOIA Section 47 came into operation on March 1, according to a notice tabled in the House of Assembly yesterday.There is still no date as
Shanty Town Task Force on their way to Abaco
MINISTER of Labour Dion Foulkes, along with a delegation of six persons from the Shanty Town Action Task Force, will travel to Abaco on Sunday to view the unregulated housing developments commonly known as shanty towns in Abaco.The delegation will vi
Jonquel leads her team into title series in WCBA
JONQUEL Jones’ offseason in China has seen her become one of the league’s most dominant players as she leads her team into this weekend’s Championship series.Jones leads the Shanxi Xing Rui Flames into the championship of the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association for a best-of-five matchup against the Beijing Great Wall.
'Bail like hell' to rescue $570m spending spree
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to “bail like hell to rescue the ship” after it was revealed that the Christie government’s $570 million spending spree dwarfed the VAT-led revenue rise.K P Turnquest, the Deputy Prime Minister, told Parliament there w
Government 'handcuffed' by unused leases
THE Deputy Prime Minister yesterday accused the former administration of “handcuffing” the Government by entering into multi-million dollar leases for property that has never been used.K P Turnquest cited two cases where the Government owed between $
BOB faces forensic audit with Gov't 'open to a sale'
THE Government is planning a forensic audit into Bank of the Bahamas’ lending practices, the Deputy Prime Minister yesterday saying the Government is “open” to selling the troubled lender.K P Turnquest, kicking-off the mid-year Budget debate, told th
DPM targets $75m savings from debt burden's slash
THE Government will realise $75 million in annual interest savings if it returns the debt-to-GDP ratio back to 30 per cent, removing “the albatross around the neck” of the Bahamian society. K P Turnquest told the House of Assembly that such a ratio s
Year's delay fear on Fiscal Responsibility
A governance reformer yesterday expressed concern that Fiscal Responsibility legislation may only take effect in 2019, and warned it was “no silver bullet.” Matt Aubry, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (ORG) executive director, told Trib
Gov't to reserve public tenders for small businesses
THE Minnis administration’s public procurement reforms will “set aside” specific contracts for only small Bahamian businesses to bid on, the Deputy Prime Minister said yesterday.Opening debate on the 2017-2018 mid-year Budget statement, K P Turnquest
ART OF GRAPHIX: Putting your stamp on image cloning
THERE are lots of respectable processing tools available for making minor edits to photos within the Adobe Photoshop collection box. The Healing Brush and the Spot Healing Brush tools are but two examples. These are great for minor edits to photos if
Water Corporation: 22 plants ‘no bid’
THE Water & Sewerage Corporation’s (WSC) chairman yesterday revealed that it “amazingly” issues 22 contracts to reverse osmosis plant (RO) operators “without a single one going to tender”.
Wednesday, March 7
03072018 EDITION
Wednesday, 7th March 2018.
$30m bridge considered to replace glass window
THE government is considering the construction of a new $30m bridge to replace the often-hampered Glass Window Bridge in North Eleuthera.
Davis’ threat to scrap Oban deal
IF the “reckless” Oban Energies deal continues to be shrouded with “incompetence and dishonesty” then the $5.5bn agreement will not continue under a Progressive Liberal Party-led government should the organisation win the next general election, party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis, pictured, said yesterday.
Churches propose marriage controls
THE Bahamas Christian Council yesterday released its proposal for a companion bill to the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act that seeks to establish another advisory council to set rules for Bahamian marriages, legislate counselling and effect tax incentives for married couples who live together.
‘Shanty towns have to go’
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister said the government is working to fully “eradicate” shanty towns, focusing on clean up and removal as opposed to regulating these areas.
Sailor survives ten-mile swim to shore
AN Acklins man is missing at sea following a boating accident off Crooked Island on Monday.
Hunt for turtle’s hammer killer
A VIDEO circulating on social media showing a man brutally killing a sea turtle, believed to be in The Bahamas, is drawing outrage from animal activists and calls for a Royal Bahamas Police Force investigation.
Ammunition found on beach
A large quantity of illegal ammunition has been discovered buried on a beach in South Bimini, police reported. Although no arrest has been made, officers are being commended for the excellent work in the discovery and seizing of some 500 rounds of a
Court to appoint lawyer as man appeals over girlfriend's murder
A MAN seeking to challenge his half-century sentence for murdering his 15-year-old girlfriend at a sports bar in Grand Bahama four years ago will receive a court-appointed lawyer for his appeal application.Appellate Justices Stella Crane Scott, Roy J
Paving at Farrington Road
MINISTRY of Works officials are conducting a paving exercise along Farrington Road over the next 10 days, running from 9.30am to 2pm daily.
CULTURE CLASH: Ask yourself - what are the women in your life really worth?
Tomorrow is International Women’s Day and this year’s theme is Press for Progress. The annual year-long campaign inspires people all over the world to consider the issues women face year-round, think about solutions and bring people together to take action for change.
NPBA: Giants, Mingoes in win column
THE Commonwealth Bank Giants and the University of the Bahamas Mingoes won the New Providence Basketball Association men’s division one double header played at the AF Adderley Gymnasium on Monday night.In the opener, the Giants routed the Caro Contra
INTERNATIONAL BAZAAR FIRE: ‘What do we do now?’
ABOUT a dozen straw vendors at the International Bazaar in Freeport were displaced after their shops were destroyed by fire at the Straw Market early yesterday morning.
Thomas expects 'nothing but the gold' at Commonwealth Games
After turning in what he called a “disappointing” performance at the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Birmingham, Great Britain, last week, Donald Thomas has his sights set on winning the gold at the Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast, Australia,
AGM: BBFF executives return to office unopposed
LAST month, the Bahamas Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation hosted its annual general meeting and election of officers and all of the executives were returned to office unopposed.Joel Stubbs, who will head the federation for his second four-year term
PLP leader named in latest audits - but wants review
OFFICIAL Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis has written to Ernst and Young’s global office requesting a peer review of the Bahamas branch’s audit practices after being forewarned that he is named in another EY report, this time regarding the Water and Sewerage Corporation.
Promoter of failed Fyre Festival pleads guilty to fraud
NEW YORK (AP) — The promoter of the failed Fyre Festival in the Bahamas — once billed as the "cultural experience of the decade" — pleaded guilty to wire fraud charges Tuesday, agreeing to serve up to a decade in prison for lying to investors who lost over $26 million.
EDITORIAL: What do you mean, free speech has limits?
THE words uttered by the erstwhile hard-working, well-meaning Attorney General Carl Bethel this week “free speech has limits” should have sent chills up and down the spine of every Bahamian citizen or individual resident in this country.
Bahamas First General Insurance sponsors 47th CARIFTA Games
BAHAMAS First General Insurance Company recently announced its sponsorship of the 47th edition of the CARIFTA Games scheduled for March 30 to April 2 at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.Patrick Ward, Group President and CEO, presented a cheque
High School Track & Field Nationals start on Thursday
THE St Augustine’s College Big Red Machine will be out to defend their title as the Ministry of the Youth, Sports and Culture hosts the 29th edition of the National High School Track and Field Championships.
Sports Notes
BOWLINGCITY BOWLING LEAGUEDerrick Burrows of the Asurewin Pocket Pleasers was the most valuable player of the City Bowling League with a 648 high three game set on Monday night at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Centre.David Slat
Focus more on crime than immigration
An open letter to the Bahamian people and the Ministry of National Security.
Where the sea meets the facts
Many Bahamians make the mistake of getting their “facts” from bloggers, Youtube videos and other social media!
Your Wi-Fi can be hacked due to WPA2 protocol vulnerability called KRACK
The group of cybersecurity experts has recently found the greatest and unprecedented vulnerability in the security of Wi-Fi networks. The most popular security protocol for WI-FI networks – the WPA2 protocol appears to be the weak link.
White House wants user-friendly electronic health records
The Trump administration Tuesday launched a new effort under the direction of presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner to overcome years of problems with electronic medical records and make them easier for patients to use.
Electrics buzz but gas-guzzlers still shine
This year’s Geneva auto show is crowded with new cars flaunting electric and autonomous technologies meant to help unclog city streets and fight global warming and air pollution.
TECH TALK
• Tech giants Facebook, Twitter and Google are taking steps to police terrorists and hate groups on their sites but more work needs to be done, the Simon Wiesenthal Center said on Tuesday.
Cable ‘turning corner on plan’ despite $31m loss
Cable Bahamas’ top executive yesterday said Aliv and its Florida investments will “turn the corner on plan” within the next 12-18 months despite a near-$31 million half-year loss.
Chamber chief: ‘Not right time’ for extra BPL debt charge
THE Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive is arguing that “now is not the right time” for Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) to add additional charges to customer bills.
FINCO profits near-double on 50% loan provision fall
FINANCE Corporation of the Bahamas (FINCO) profits near-doubled in 2017 due to a more than 50 per cent drop in loan loss provisions, even though bad credit increased to $121 million.Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) mortgage arm, in financial statements r
PM's one-time nemesis blasts 'really egregious Oban missteps'
THE Prime Minister’s former political nemesis yesterday slammed the Government’s “really egregious missteps” over the Oban Energies project, branding it “a very fishy deal”.Loretta Butler-Turner, who led the ‘coup’ to oust Dr Hubert Minnis as Opposit
Bahamas leads Caribbean on broadband Internet costs
CABLE Bahamas is arguing that this nation has the lowest monthly fixed broadband Internet charges in the Caribbean, coming in at just 0.7 per cent of average household income.The BISX-listed communications provider cited this and other data to suppor
Conference focuses on repositioning Bahamas
THE Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) combined its annual Summit with the regular Bahamas Briefing that sells international intermediaries on this nation’s benefits as an international financial centre (IFC).More than 170 persons attended this
Film industry generates $5m boost for Bahamas
THE Bahamas generated $5 million in revenue from the 247 film and TV-related projects attracted to this nation last year, the Ministry of Tourism revealed yesterday.Its Bahamas Film and Television Commission said these projects included The Bahamas L
Eleuthera 'improvises' with dock as Glass Window shut
ELEUTHERA residents have “had to improvise” to facilitate movement between the island’s north and south after the “vital commercial link” of the Glass Window Bridge was closed by high swells.Ivan Ferguson, the Family Island administrator for North El
Construction regulation moves one step closer
THE Bahamian construction industry is moving closer to having regulatory oversight, after the Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) resubmitted its nominees for the Contractors Board.That Board will oversee enforcement of the Construction Contractor
Tuesday, March 6
03062018 EDITION
Tuesday, 6th March, 2018.
Police on hunt for six in murders cases
POLICE yesterday issued wanted bulletins for six men they believe can help with investigations into a number of recent murders in New Providence.
Sir Durward – remembered with love
BAHAMIAN icon, Olympian, and philanthropist Sir Durward Randolph Knowles was remembered yesterday as a man who loved his country and strove to make his community a better place.
Smith hits back at ‘cowardly’ Bethel
FRED Smith, QC, has condemned Attorney General Carl Bethel for his “cowardly and shameful attempt to muzzle freedom of expression” and “intimidate” activists who he said are only seeking to educate the public about their rights.
Does somebody have to die first?
THE LINGERING stench of charred earth has intensified the anxiety of residents in the nation’s largest shanty town, The Mud, Abaco.
THE PRESS BOX: Cowboys’ wide receiving corps ‘desperately needs a facelift’
IN 2017, the Cowboys lacked any real speed on the outside offensively.
Davis: Release document signed by Krieger
OPPOSITION Leader Philip “Brave” Davis criticised the Minnis administration yesterday for its lack of transparency on the Oban Energies project.
Crime scene visit in GB murder trial
JURORS in the double murder and armed robbery trial being held in the Supreme Court on Grand Bahama were taken on a site visit on Monday visiting several areas, including the murder scene in Deadman’s Reef.
Police hunt for US man swept into sea
POLICE are searching for a 19-year-old American man who was swept into rough seas while in the area of the Queen’s Bath, south of the Glass Window Bridge in Eleuthera yesterday morning.
25-year-old charged over hit-and-run that killed jogger
A 25-year-old man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday over allegations he struck and killed a woman with an uninsured vehicle while she was having her morning jog on West Bay Street.
Family Island clinics
IT was the news article, Bodies in Bathtubs, that is prompting this letter, but by no means is this the only issue at hand.
Tribute to Sir Durward
S - Sensitive; sea wolf.
FACE TO FACE: Hey Mr Bully, look at the boy now
Addis Huyler is a successful, dynamic and confident Bahamian man on a mission to ensure his fellow Bahamians are recognised and honoured for the work they do to help make this country a better one. He is the mastermind behind the Bahamian Icon awards, now in its sixth year, celebrating the dedication and success of Bahamians in areas such as sports, entrepreneurship, commerce, media, entertainment, health, tourism and fine art. He is also the CEO of the SIDDA Communications group, a successful marketing and public relations consultancy. With all this going for him, you would have no idea Addis was once a gawky, tall, lumbering kid who dealt with bullying throughout his school years.
How to dress for a curvelicious figure
Not too long ago searching for chic, trendy clothing if you were a full-figured woman often felt like looking for that proverbial needle in a haystack. However, the tide has since turned and today’s fashionistas who wear a dress size 10 and up have more options than ever before.
Relax, men – no more dreaded finger prostate exam
Question: Dear Dr Pinto, I am 47 years old and have never had a prostate check because of the dread of violation by the gloved finger prostate exam. My older brothers, cousins and most of my uncles also never go for prostate work up for the same reason. What other way can we all get a prostate checkup?
Nonprofit wants to help women live the beautiful life
This Saturday, the Viva La Bella organisation is launching a special campaign to provide women and girls throughout New Providence with essential tools so that they can one day experience the ‘beautiful life’.
Local deaconess calls on women to pray for the nation
Deaconess Elaine Hinsey is making a clarion call for the women of the Bahamas to come together in prayer for the nation and “stand in the gap” together to bring peace and prosperity to the country.
Design your lifestyle – Don’t lose your passion
Victoria Sarne continues her examination of life-changing moments and daily challenges
When I first started writing these articles a couple of years ago I deliberately chose the title – Design Your Lifestyle – for its ambiguity as it would allow me to write about design and décor or lifestyle in general, meaning the way we live our lives every day.
Christine Gardiner grows beauty empire from the ground up
Achieving that so-called “natural glow” is often the ultimate goal skin care goal of women.
Police officer overcomes life-changing injuries
POLICE motorcyclist Nelson Rahming was pursuing two suspects when he was suddenly hit by another vehicle – an incident that changed his life forever.
Eleuthera shines a light on melanoma, bone and colorectal cancer
The Cancer Society of Eleuthera’s upcoming fifth annual Hope Ball, while touted as a night of glamorous fundraising for the island, is also designed to bring attention to an important topic – colorectal cancer.
Bodybuilders earn pro cards
Veteran Lorraine LaFleur and Jimmy Norius, along with Angelika Wallace-Whitfield, Tanya Moxey-Cleare and Enderich Rahming were the latest Bahamian bodybuilders to earn their professional cards in two different competitions over the last few months.
Sir Durward: ‘I left the world a better place than I found it’
SPORTING icon Sir Durward ‘Sea Wolf’ Knowles, in his obituary, as he was laid to rest following his funeral service at the Ebenezer Methodist Church, penned the following words: “I can honestly say, I have lived a full life and I left the world a better place than I found it.”
High school basketball nationals all set
THE best high school basketball players in the island nation are set to showcase their skills at the third edition of the National High School Basketball Championships.
Nashad named to All-Conference second team
IN his first season of NCAA Division II basketball, Bahamian college basketball star Nashad Mackey produced a number of career milestones and postseason awards.
Mayaguana Police get together for fun run/walk race
IN collaboration with the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s 178th anniversary, the Mayaguana Police held their fun run/walk race simultaneously on Saturday morning.
Private sector needs year for WTO 'acclimatisation'
Bahamian companies must have a year to “acclimatize” before this nation joins the WTO, a prominent businessman yesterday warning the economy will otherwise “slow” pre-accession.Robert Myers, a principal with the Organisation for Responsible Governanc
Gov't changing law for Oban
THE Government has committed to changing the Bahamas’ tax incentive laws solely to “accommodate” Oban Energies’ $5.5 billion oil refinery and storage terminal.A little-noticed section in the February 19, 2018, Heads of Agreement (HOA) for the now-con
Insurers: 'We've not relaxed our guard' on KYC changes
BAHAMIAN general insurers yesterday revealed “we’ve not relaxed our guard” despite being relieved of increased customer due diligence obligations.Timothy Ingraham, Summit Insurance Company’s president, told Tribune Business that the industry’s memori
'Breadbasket' reform to Cabinet in 3-4 weeks
A CABINET paper on the proposed ‘breadbasket list’ reforms could be ready within three to four weeks, as part of long-term moves to prevent a healthcare budget “explosion”.Dr Duane Sands, minister of health, told Tribune Business that his ministry ha
Downtown Nassau hit by cruise loss
FIVE cruise ships had to be re-routed yesterday after the Port Department was forced to “shut down” Nassau harbour as a precautionary measure amid heavy swells.Captain Cyril Roker, the Port Controller, told Tribune Business that large waves had pushe
BTC voluntary departure package 'is nothing new'
A TRADE union leader yesterday denied that the Bahamas Telecommunications Company’s (BTC) latest voluntary separation (VSEP) offer was driven by increased competition, adding: “This is nothing new”.Bernard Evans, the Bahamas Communications and Public
Broadcast truck deal an asset for Bahamas
A BAHAMIAN production house has sealed an agreement giving them preferred access to a multi-million-dollar 4K Outside Broadcast (OB) Truck to record major events.The MoVi Group, the sound, lighting and stage, and film production house, revealed the s
BFSB chair: We must shed 'offshore' label
THE Bahamas’ financial services industry must shake the ‘offshore’ label, the Bahamas Financial Services Board’s (BFSB) chairman has urged.Antoinette Russell, while addressing the International Business and Finance Summit (IBFS), said: “As we hit the
Monday, March 5
Eleuthera shines a light on melanoma, bone and colorectal cancer
The Cancer Society of Eleuthera’s upcoming fifth annual Hope Ball, while touted as a night of glamorous fundraising for the island, is also designed to bring attention to an important topic – colorectal cancer.The event was expected to take place th
NEW CHARGE D'AFFAIRES JOINS US EMBASSY
STEPHANIE Bowers assumed the role of chargé d’affaires at the US Embassy Nassau on March 1.Ms Bowers is a career foreign service officer who most recently served as chief of staff of the Department of State’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs. Pre
Police officer overcomes life-changing injuries
POLICE motorcyclist Nelson Rahming was pursuing two suspects when he was suddenly hit by another vehicle – an incident that changed his life forever.This accident in July of 2009 left him with severe nerve damage from which he is still recovering nea
Local deaconess calls on women to pray for the nation
Deaconess Elaine Hinsey is making a clarion call for the women of the Bahamas to come together in prayer for the nation and “stand in the gap” together to bring peace and prosperity to the country.Her vision is “Women in White”, an event at which wom
Ferguson tight-lipped on union financial affairs
BAHAMAS Public Services Union President Kimsley Ferguson insisted yesterday that disputes about the union’s financial affairs will be addressed internally, without public commentary. His comment followed a report in the Bahama Journal that detailed
Nonprofit wants to help women live the beautiful life
This Saturday, the Viva La Bella organisation is launching a special campaign to provide women and girls throughout New Providence with essential tools so that they can one day experience the ‘beautiful life’.The “Bellas Pop Up” community outreach p
Father accused of helping murder suspect evade law
A FATHER and son were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday over allegations that the son murdered a security guard for a local seafood processing centre last month, and the father subsequently helped assist him in evading the law. Seantino Ro
Three admit rental car fraud
THREE men between the ages of 22 and 25 yesterday pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining a number of Hyundai vehicles from a local rental company during the latter part of last month. Sean Roberts, Akeem Storr, and Sean Bain all admitted to commit
How to dress for a curvelicious figure
Not too long ago searching for chic, trendy clothing if you were a full-figured woman often felt like looking for that proverbial needle in a haystack. However, the tide has since turned and today’s fashionistas who wear a dress size 10 and up have m
Man accused of stealing $7,500 in armed raids
A 34-year-old man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with robbing a number of persons at gunpoint of more than $7,000 in cash and other items that belonged to various pharmacies, restaurants and a service station in New Providenc
Second man charged over nightclub killing
A SECOND man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with murdering a man and attempting to kill two others at a nightclub last month. He was one of three men charged with separate murders yesterday. Christopher Blyden, 24, of Bambo
03052018 EDITION
Monday, March 5th, 2018.
School beatings must be very last resort
CHILDREN should be beaten in schools only if all other options have been exhausted and in the most egregious of circumstances, Education Minister Jeff Lloyd, pictured, has said.
The Mud in flames – again
MORE than 80 people have been left homeless and their houses destroyed after another blaze ripped through The Mud in Abaco in the early hours yesterday.
Bethel blasts activists – ‘free speech has limits’
THE country’s top prosecutor has pledged to defend the country’s borders and the “patrimony of Bahamians” from a “long-running silent invasion,” as he hit out at human rights group Rights Bahamas for disseminating “inflammatory” and “misleading” information about the country’s immigration laws.
Gibson calls for tighter laws over hit and run incidents
LONG Island MP Adrian Gibson has called for stricter traffic laws relating to hit and runs.
INSIGHT: Oban could make billions. We don't event get a few cents on the barrel.
Not what we hoped for - yet again, Dr Minnis
ANY number of pronouncements made by the prime minister can be pointed to when trying to assess what has caused the rapid deterioration of the goodwill he’s had with the Bahamian public. Whether we look at the use of superfluous campaign rhetoric that has come back to haunt him, or careless use of speech on a few too many occasions when we needed to hear from a coherent and composed leader.
INSIGHT: Why ‘Get papers or get out’ is pure political nonsense
The policy of ordering irregular migrants to either “get papers or get out” is a glaring example of utter political nonsense. There can be no other term for it. This harebrained dictat is not only illegal; it is also completely irrational, totally hypocritical and fundamentally flawed in just about every way.
Charlton lowers her national record in the 60m hurdles
Just as she started on Friday at the Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham, Great Britain, Devynne Charlton finished the IAAF World Indoor Championships on Saturday running the final of the women’s 60 metres hurdles in lane eight.
POLICE ADVICE: Pedestrian and driver Safety Tips
WALKING is a healthy activity, but you need to know the rules of pedestrian safety. Especially if you are walking in an area where there aren’t sidewalks or paths separate from the road. To stay safe walking, follow these rules.
GAIN AN EDGE: Securing the skills the global economy wants
As economies grow, countries are forced to change and make adjustments to national plans in order to benefit from this growth.
BUSINESS BITES: Well, that’s all clear then. I don’t think so.
So now we have the 41-page Heads of Agreement that presumably any citizen may read, as I have done. It is signed for Oban Energies LLC not by Peter Krieger, the corpulent gentleman who featured in press photos with Prime Minister Minnis both putting pens on something — what? But Mr Krieger we were told is only the non-executive chairman, or “ambassador” for Oban. The actual document bears the signature of Oban’s unseen President, Satpal Dhunna.
Neighbours hit out at tent eyesore on Bay St
THE owner of a vacant lot next to the East Bay Shopping Centre is refusing to clear what is being described as an “eyesore” and a “flea market” from the premises, despite the complaints of property managers, tenants, clients and tourists.
How many votes?
The Guardian headline today says “Pastors to Vote on Marital Rape Issue”. As is commonly seen on Social Media these days, I nearly BOL (Bust out Laughing). It brought back to memory, a number of years ago, when my church engaged a Pastor from Missouri.
'Overall, I thought the tournament was really good'
KERRIE Cartwright was looking for better results as she started a tour in Heraklion, Greece, at the 12th Lyttos Beach International Tennis Federation’s (ITF) Circuit over the weekend, but she admitted that she will take it.The island nation’s only Wo
Federation names 36-member CARIFTA swim team
THE Bahamas Swimming Federation has released the names of a 36-member team that will head to Kingston, Jamaica at the end of the month to defend the title at the 2018 CARIFTA Games. Three teams were also named for the water polo competition that will
Knights win senior track and field title
THE CR Walker Knights pulled off another Government Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships title at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium on Friday.The Knights, who joined the AF Adderley Fighting Tigers, who won the junior divisional crown
Ayton and Wildcats claim PAC 12 titlewith 66-54 victory over Golden Bears
A tumultuous week that featured the Arizona men’s basketball programme in the headlines for all the wrong reasons saw a complete turnaround this weekend as the team claimed the conference title and DeAndre Ayton was named to the shortlist for college
MLB: Bahamian players enter season highly ranked
WITH Major League Baseball spring training underway and franchises preparing their farm systems in the minors, several Bahamian players will enter the season highly ranked by their respective franchises.Jazz Chisholm is the highest ranked of any Baha
EDITORIAL: Trump decisions unsettle the world
WAR is very much on people’s minds today in Washington, DC, and New York City. Maybe it is a hot topic in Beijing and Moscow, too. There is certainly concern in Ottawa, London, Paris, Berlin and Mexico City.
Man dies as he is flung from truck in crash
A MAN is dead after a traffic accident in New Providence on Friday.
Battling crime
I AM concerned and aware of the challenges you face with the free run of criminality in this country. To minimise the excess ‘law breakers’ on the road I notice the new licence plates are not easily seen because the colour and the number on the plates are both dark. The decal window sticker should be exchanged to a different colour every year making it easy for officers to identify expire dates. The colour however appears to remain the same, making it difficult to identify from a distance.
Smith to launch judicial review over Oban heads of agreement
FRED Smith, QC, attacked the government yesterday for a deal prohibiting it from terminating the heads of agreement with Oban Energies whatever an environment impact assessment may find, insisting he will launch judicial review proceedings within weeks to challenge the legality of the provision.
'Case not made' for joining WTO
The Government “has not yet made the case” for joining the WTO, a senior Chamber executive arguing that the Bahamas had “squandered” a 16-year period to ready itself for this day.Darron Pickstock, who heads the Chamber of Commerce’s trade and investm
Healthcare budget $100m short as key contracts cut 50 per cent
THE Government’s annual healthcare Budget is around $100 million short of the system’s needs, despite some controversial contracts being cut by 50 per cent.Dr Duane Sands, minister of health, told Tribune Business that even allowing for an “aggressiv
Infrastructure upgrade delays 'without PPPs'
THE Government’s financial woes “may cause delays” to much-needed infrastructure upgrades unless public-private partnerships (PPPs) are employed, the Deputy Prime Minister has revealed.K P Turnquest, also minister of finance, confirmed that the Gover
Banks are challenged over renewable energy lending
A Chamber executive has challenged Bahamian commercial banks to explain their reluctance to finance renewable installations, as homes and businesses continue to “bleed energy”. Debby Deal, head of the Chamber’s energy and environment division, questi
Blockchain eyed for speedier KYC
THE Government is examining whether blockchain technology can be employed to ease the financial services industry’s Know Your Customer (KYC) processes.K P Turnquest, Deputy Prime Minister, told the International Business and Finance Summit (IBFS) tha
MONEY MATTERS: Identifying the bare necessities of life
TVs. Laptops. Cellular phones. Turn on any device and you are constantly bombarded by advertisements to consume. Facebook. Instagram. Snapchat. Interact with anyone on social media and you are constantly flooded by advertisements. Food. Entertainment
Ex-Minister: Use presence ‘reset’ for financial services
THE Bahamas needs a ‘value proposition’ “reset” based on physical presence, ‘managing minds’ and substance, a former financial services minister is arguing. Ryan Pinder, now a Graham, Thompson & Company attorney partner, told the International Business and Finance Summit (IBFS): “Our value proposition of financial privacy has all but been eliminated. The Bahamas requires a new value proposition.
BTC, Cable slam 'flawed' broadband Internet review
THE Bahamas’ two major communications players have united to slam their regulator’s “flawed review”, instead urging it to lift current demands on their broadband Internet services.Both the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and BISX-listed Cabl
Sunday, March 4
Glass Window Bridge closed to Eleuthera residents due to high sea surges
Residents of North Eleuthera are being strongly advised, by the National Emergency Management Agency and Family Island officials, to stay away from the Glass Window Bridge due to large and dangerous swells impacting that area over the weekend.
Friday, March 2
03022018 EDITION
Friday, 2nd March, 2018.
Man sets himself on fire after 'domestic dispute'
A MAN in his mid-thirties set himself on fire Thursday night outside a laundromat in Eleuthera.
PLP Chairman raises questions over HOA signatures
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party chairman Fred Mitchell is questioning why the heads of agreement for Oban Energies that Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis tabled Thursday evening featured no signature from Peter Kriegar.
Trial date set for Freedom Park shooting accused
A DATE in late-2019 has been set for the trial of three men accused of being the perpetrators of the fatal Freedom Park, Fox Hill, drive-by shooting that claimed four lives and injured seven others five years ago.
Mitchell warns over Supreme Court rulings on migrant detention
FORMER Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell yesterday warned the recent Supreme Court rulings concerning migrant detention will have an adverse impact on the vulnerable group as he called on the government to align themselves with the Opposition in the face of “unpatriotic” legal attacks.
Senator 'greatly concerned' about Oban Energies HOA clause
FORMER Minister for Grand Bahama and PLP Senator Dr Michael Darville is very concerned about a clause in the Heads of Agreement signed with Oban Energies that allows the proposed oil refinery project to continue despite the findings of an Environmental Impact Assessment.
Man seeks more time to contest murder conviction, sentence
A MAN sentenced to life in prison for murdering and robbing a messenger of a fast-food restaurant in Grand Bahama during his deposit run twelve years ago, is seeking more time in which to legally contest his punishment.
Union defends principal after 'sit out'
THE Bahamas Educators Managerial Union defended Stephen Dillet Primary School principal Phyllis Johnson on Friday in the wake of the “disgraceful public attack” BEMU says she experienced in the last week.
Christian Council to make recommendations for outlawing marital rape
THE Bahamas Christian Council will send Attorney General Carl Bethel recommendations for outlawing marital rape on Monday, BCC president Bishop Delton Fernander said during a press conference yesterday.
Devynne Charlton win hurdles heat
DEVYNNE Charlton, not perturbed by running out of lane eight, powered to victory in a season's best of 7.95 seconds in her heat of the women's 60 metres on day two of the IAAF World Indoor Championships, to advance to the semifinal with the third fastest qualifying time.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Dat’s da way tings go - but does it have to be?
This week, our government debated two bills - the Financial Reporting Bill and Proceeds of Crime Bill - that, taken together, should go some distance to stamping out official corruption in the country. But without a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), can they actually make a difference?
International soccer player ban ‘a travesty’
JARED Higgs’ lawyer Vincent Wallace-Whitfield called it a “travesty of justice where due process was not followed” in trying to determine how his client could be banned for four years from the Bahamas Football Association when he was never tested for any banned substances.
Officials hunt for licence forgers
OFFICIALS from the Road Traffic Department yesterday confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the source of several “fake” licences that have turned up for renewal in recent weeks.
Hit and run fatality: Two held in Bimini
POLICE have taken two men into custody in connection with Wednesday morning’s fatal hit and run.
Locked in: No right to scrap Oban deal over any environmental issue
THE government has relinquished its ability to terminate the heads of agreement with Oban Energies because of what environmental impact assessments may conclude about the safety of the project, according to the much-anticipated document which Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis tabled in Parliament yesterday evening.
Kickback demands kept investors away
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis again accused the Christie administration of being corrupt, telling the House of Assembly last night he has heard that some foreign investors have been hesitant to do business here for fear of being asked for a “so-called incentive”.
Cemetery proposal
IT is certainly interesting that a promoter would be interested in developing a cemetery when traditional funerals and interments are now not the norm and cremation is.
Cartwright advances to quarter-final in 12th Lyttos Beach ITF Pro Circuit
KERRIE Cartwright, playing in the first of three International Tennis Federation women’s circuit tournaments in Greece, has advanced to the quarter-final of singles in the 12th Lyttos Beach ITF Pro Circuit. However, she was a little disappointed tha
Boxer Carl Hield all set for trip to CAC Games qualifying tourney next week
EVEN without the financial support of the Bahamas Amateur Boxing Federation, well travelled welterweight boxer Carl Hield has his bags packed for the trip to the Central American and Caribbean Games qualifying tournament next week in Tijuana, Mexico.
Palacious seeks new push to reach at-risk youths in inner city
the Governor General’s Youth Award is expanding into inner city communities to reach even more high-risk youths.
Minister responds to concerns of Corrections Services officers
PUBLIC Services Minister Brensil Rolle has responded to claims that Department of Correctional Services officers are not receiving their pensions, their permanent and pensionable letters, nor are they being promoted. Last Friday, Bahamas Prison Staf
Court delays sentencing of QC teacher's killers
THE sentencing of two men and a teenager for murdering Queen’s College elementary teacher Joyelle McIntosh in 2015 has been delayed after counsel for one of the convicts argued against the “complete logical fallacy” of his client being convicted on b
Thomas, Wilson 6th and 9th in high jump
It wasn’t what was expected for Donald Thomas and Jamal Wilson as they finished in ties for sixth and ninth respectively in the men’s high jump during the first day of competition at the IAAF World Indoor Championships.Competing as the first two of t
Woman who slapped teacher freed
THE COURT of Appeal yesterday freed a Grand Bahama woman who was previously imprisoned for attacking the principal of Jack Hayward High School five years ago.Appellate Justices Jon Isaacs, Roy Jones, and acting appellate Justice Sir Michael Barnett,
PLP 'made provisions' for new morgue in Cat Island
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis made “provisions” for a morgue to be built on Cat Island during the last administration, PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell told The Tribune yesterday.However, these plans were stopped when the Minnis adm
Bills seek to cut out corruption
LAWMAKERS united yesterday to support the Proceeds of Crime Bill and the Financial Transactions Reporting Bill, laws meant to clamp down on corruption and crime, although Progressive Liberal Party leaders warned against overreach.The Proceeds of Crim
THE FINISH LINE: Sir Durward Knowles 'was an extraordinary Bahamian who excelled to the highest order'
ACCOLADES continue to pour in for the late Sir Durward Knowles, better known as the “Sea Wolf,” who passed away on Saturday, February 24 at Doctor’s Hospital. Knowles, who turned 100 on November 2, was celebrated as the oldest living Olympic gold me
Government 'neglect to address' dangerous oil leak at Clifton
ENVIRONMENT group Save the Bays (STB) has accused the government of neglect after a representative of the group said it spotted “another large and dangerous oil leak” from the Clifton Pier Power Station causing “critical damage” to the surrounding ma
Knights and the Rattlers top senior standings
THE senior school segment of the GSSSA Track and Field Championship meet concludes today with a deadlocked tie atop the standings setting the stage for the final day of competition.The defending champion CR Walker Knights and CI Gibson Rattlers both
Tigers GSSSA junior champions
AFTER several years of second place finishes, the AF Adderley Tigers finally moved ahead of the field and unseated their chief rivals as GSSSA track and field champions.The Tigers concluded the two-day meet with 448.50 points, a slim 30.5 margin over
Dug up the road? A $10,000 fine may be coming your way
A $10,000 fine is under consideration for utility companies responsible for digging up newly paved roads.Director of Works Melanie Roach said the Ministry of Works is recommending that the present fine of $75 be increased.“We are looking to upgrade t
Garbage keeps on piling up
PLEASE allow me space in your column to express my concern about a very serious issue that has gotten little to no attention from all governments. I am talking about the issue of littering.
The big mango deal
MANGOES and Plantains from Haiti - wow what a big deal!
A well-deserved honour for Moss
I AM extremely happy that Rev Dr C B Moss was recently awarded the 2017 Golden Heart Award by the Sir Victor Sassoon Heart Foundation. For over 50 years Rev Moss worked tirelessly with many Organisations to improve the well-being and quality of life for all of our people, particularly the less fortunate.
Man in tears as he is cleared of kidnapping and robbing student
A MAN cried audibly from a Supreme Court holding dock after being unanimously acquitted of the armed robbery and kidnapping of a local college student six years ago. Ekron Taylor lowered his head and sobbed as a nine member jury returned unanimous n
DPM: More ‘pain’ to stop debt ‘collapse’
The Government’s finances “will collapse in on themselves” unless the national debt’s increase is halted, the Deputy Prime Minister yesterday warning Bahamians “more pain will be involved”.
Bahamas pushes Caribbean $20-$30m tourism fund-raise
THE Bahamas is leading a $20-$30 million fund-raising drive to counter negative hurricane publicity and market the ‘Caribbean’ brand, the Minister of Tourism revealed yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar told Tribune Business that the Bahamas, as the lead co
App links Asue with blockchain
A MOBILE application connecting Asue, one of the Bahamas’ oldest saving methods, with the emerging Blockchain technology is now being marketed locally.Simone Smith-Bain, a Bermuda-based Bahamian attorney, told Tribune Business that a mobile app calle
CCA demands arbitration for Sarkis's claim
BAHA Mar’s main contractor yesterday urged the New York courts to seal its terms for restarting construction, as it bids to push Sarkis Izmirlian’s $2.25 billion fraud lawsuit into arbitration.China Construction America (CCA) and its affiliates revea
Appeal Court dismisses union's Morton Salt case
A BAHAMIAN trade union’s industrial grievances against Morton Salt have been dismissed as “not tenable” by the Court of Appeal.The Bahamas Industrial, Manufacturing and Allied Workers Union initially took the Inagua-based salt harvester and manufactu
Opposition finance chief warns on over-regulation
THE Bahamas must avoid “shooting itself in the foot” by over-regulating its financial services sector, the Opposition’s finance spokesman warned yesterday.Chester Cooper, during his contribution to the debate on the Financial Transaction Reporting Bi
Second entrepreneur group graduates Gov't programme
A second group of 15 potential entrepreneurs last week graduated from the Grand Bahama Micro and Small Business Economic, Empowerment and Incentive Programme. The initiative is likely to be extended to a third, and fourth, group as the minister of st
IAN FERGUSON: Reaping the benefits from employee health
MOST would agree that employee wellness is a topic that receives far too little attention in the standard work environment. We spend most of our waking hours at work, and do not always take into account the impact that those hours have on our psychol
Tourism executives meet police on security issues
THE Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) and the Downtown Nassau Partnership (DNP) met with officers at downtown’s Tourism Police Station to discuss security issues.Representatives from the two organisations met with Superintendent Anthony Ro
DPM pledges to reform 'inefficient' government
THE Bahamas is still operating an “inefficient” 1973 model of government, the Deputy Prime Minister yesterday pledging: “We have to do something about that.”K P Turnquest, addressing a half-day Blockchain Technology seminar hosted by the Central Bank
Thursday, March 1
Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend returns to Treasure Cay March 16-18
THE Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend returns to Treasure Cay March 16-18.The three-day event encourages family and friends to participate in fun and friendly competition. The ever beautiful beaches and waters of Abaco set a perfect backdrop for the
Pensioners left with 30% in City Markets HQ sale
* Claim trustees ‘not acting in our best interest’ * Trustees retain 27% of $3m sale to AML Foods * And lawyer paid almost one-third of proceeds
City Markets pensioners have been “kept in the dark” over the $3 million sale of the plan’s main asset, with just 30 per cent of the proceeds seemingly left for their benefit.
A real scary case of 'DP Phone Home'
THE weirdest thing happened this morning. It was extremely early and eerily quiet as I walked from the parking lot toward my office thinking I needed to call home and relay a message. My hands were full as usual, three newspapers, pocketbook, coffee cup, notepad and cell phone. I managed to get the key in the lock, open up, drop everything from my arms on to my desk and then I saw my phone. And I got the biggest case of goose bumps I have ever had in my life. My home number appeared on the screen.
Insurers ‘not oblivious’ to Bahamas sanctions threat
THE insurance industry “is not oblivious” to the need for the Bahamas to comply with global anti-financial crime standards and avoid sanctions, its chairman said yesterday.
Come clean on Oban Energies
OBAN - I am sure many will agree it is more than high time that the Prime Minister came clean on the whole history of the application by Oban to develop a refinery and oil storage facility.
Bahamian accused of harbouring person without legal status
A Bahamian man of Haitian descent was charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday with harbouring an illegal person.
Human smuggler suspect detained
A Grand Bahama man was arrested by US Coast Guard officials on suspected human smuggling after he and eight other people of various nationalities were discovered on a disabled private yacht in international waters on February 18.
Grand Bahama to host day of prayer
WOMEN of all religious denominations on Grand Bahama will come together for the annual “World Day of Prayer” today, joining some three million people around the world in a celebration of worship and prayer.
Kofhe Goodman to be sentenced next month
KOFHE Goodman’s sentence for killing 11-year-old Marco Archer nearly six years ago will be handed down by a Supreme Court judge in two weeks.
Marital rape laws
MARITAL Rape? If as a society we accept man and woman are equal then within that context any abuse of either has to be an offence.
Walmart daydream
I HAVE to reply to Dick Coulson’s open letter. To Mike Maura, Chamber of Commerce.
Don't film the victims
THOUGH I have personally never been affected, there is a proclivity by some who may be on the scene when persons are injured or mortally wounded in robberies, car accidents or domestic violence, to take pictures and circulate them on social media.
Title questions raised over $3m AML deal
CITY Markets pension fund trustees have no legal standing to sell the defunct supermarket chain’s former head office to AML Foods for $3 million, it was alleged yesterday.
BPL pledges: You’ll have ‘soft landing’ on extra charge
BAHAMAS Power & Light’s (BPL) chairman yesterday pledged to make “the landing as soft as possible” for Bahamian consumers when it adds a debt servicing charge to their bills.
Employers identify dozens of new hires
THE Director of Labour yesterday hailed the success of his department’s latest job fair, with major New Providence employers having identified dozens of potential hires.
CR Walker Knights, Tigers take early lead after day 1
THE 25th Annual GSSSA Track and Field Championships got underway yesterday in a return to the format with both junior schools and senior schools competing simultaneously.
Coleby honoured, Munnings named Player of the Week
It was a week of commemorative achievements for two of the Bahamas’ top collegiate basketball players as the NCAA regular season enters its final week.
‘it is the highest level game I have officiated thus far in my career’
CHRISTIAN Wilmore continues to set new milestones for Bahamian basketball referees and continues his progression through the FIBA ranks at some of the organisation’s most prestigious events.
Valerie Nesbitt named Panhandle Conference first team selection
NATIONAL team standout Valerie Nesbitt was awarded with a postseason accolade following her first season of collegiate basketball for Chipola College.
Minister blamed as disability commission left 'in disarray'
THE Persons with Disabilities Commission is in “complete disarray” with Social Services Minister Lanisha Rolle at the helm, a commission member told The Tribune yesterday as he accused her of doing nothing to advance the cause of the body.
Public disclosure deadline extended until March 31
TWO days before financial disclosures were to be submitted, the deadline has been extended to March 31, Public Disclosure Commission Chairman Myles Laroda said yesterday, telling The Tribune the decision was based on challenges the PDC faced.
Magistrate unhappy over delay in Frank Smith case
THE chief magistrate yesterday denied a request to have former PLP Senator Frank Smith’s bribery and extortion trial thrown out over allegations of “prosecutorial misconduct” concerning the Crown’s late bid to introduce key evidence against the accused, although reprimanding prosecutors for conducting “a piecemeal type of disclosure” to date.
Bethel: We'll fight immigration rulings
THE Office of the Attorney General will conduct a review of the recent rulings handed down by Supreme Court Justice Gregory Hilton concerning migrant detention by the Department of Immigration to determine the extent of its appeal, Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday.
Bodies in bathtubs
WHEN anyone is declared dead on Cat Island they are stuffed into a body bag, placed in a bathtub and blanketed with ice to slow the process of decomposition, The Tribune has been told.
Two more pedestrians killed in road accidents
TWO pedestrians were killed in less than 24 hours after being struck by vehicles in two separate incidents, including a hit and run.
Davis slams 'reckless' Minnis on refinery deal
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is “reckless” for proceeding with the $5.5 billion Oban Energies project despite last week’s revelations about its front man, adding this shows his “lack of good judgment”.
Shot dead as he arrived home
A 28-year-old man was shot dead after pulling up to his Yellow Elder Gardens home late Tuesday night.
Dead security guard identified
POLICE have identified a security guard found dead at a seafood processing centre last week as 24-year-old David Nelson of Palm Tree Avenue.
