Wednesday, October 31
10312018 EDITION
Wednesday, 31st October, 2018.
EDITORIAL: How work permits are helping this country move forward
RECENTLY Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis declared that something had to be done to decrease the “thousands” of work permits annually approved by the Immigration Department.
Man who swore at judge to be retried for murder
A MAN who cursed out a Supreme Court judge is to be retried for attempting to murder another man three years ago because the judge he berated did not allow him to change his lawyer during his trial, the Court of Appeal has ruled. Acting Appellate Pr
‘On course for fiscal targets’ - but Cooper says VAT flagging
THE Minnis administration is “cautiously optimistic” it will meet its fiscal targets for the year after the deficit declined 50 percent in the first quarter and revenue increased, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest said in a statement yesterday.
Two men flee as officers seize drugs
BAHAMIAN and US law enforcement officers seized over $1 million worth of suspected marijuana during a high speed boat chase in East Grand Bahama, but the two suspects were able to escape after running the vessel aground in shallow waters.This is the
4C'S IN THE DOCK: Owner and captain face manslaughter over fatal explosion
FOUR C's Adventures owner Clayton Smith and one of his tour boat captains, Roderick Watson, were charged yesterday with causing the death of an American woman and injuring nine other people due to negligence when the boat they were chartering burst into flames earlier this year.
PHA 'outsmarted' over shift change by union
A 2014 shift change agreement between the Bahamas Nurses Union and the Public Hospitals Authority is null and void––according to Jannah Khalfani, the woman who as former union president signed the document on behalf of the BNU.
'Abortion comments to UN read out of context'
SOCIAL Services Minister Frankie Campbell suggested yesterday that the position on abortion by a senior health official before a United Nations committee last week was taken out of context.
ALICIA WALLACE: Everyone has their say - then the back-pedalling begins
The Government of The Bahamas faced review by the Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) Committee during the 71st session at the United Nations in Geneva. The review followed the submission of the State’s report on progress made since the last submission, tabling of shadow reports by three non-governmental organizations (NGOs) — one of which is publicly available — and oral statements and a private meeting with NGOs.
Stanhope and crew make a splash
BAHAMIAN rower Ethan Stanhope and the Brentwood College School (Mill Bay, British Columbia) coxed youth men’s quadruple scull crew earned a top half finish at the 54th Head of the Charles Regatta (HOCR). This year’s regatta hosted over 11,000 athlet
Ex-landfill manager faces $5m judgment
The New Providence landfill’s former manager is facing a $5m-plus summary judgment bid against it as the long-running fall-out from its controversial exit continues for multiple creditors.Attorneys for Massachusetts-based American Paper Recycling yes
Who will be crowned national softball champions?
WITH the national high school tournament completed over the weekend, the Bahamas Softball Federation now switches its attention to the national round robin tournament this weekend. Softball enthusiasts will congregate again at the Baillou Hills Spor
Another flawed tender process
LIGHTHOUSE Pointe - Eleuthera … incredible someone in government understands - you can’t make an application for a proposal if you don’t have any rights to the land - thank you Ace Newbold …. hope you explain to PM Minnis and Minister D’Aguilar!
Govt to take stock of buildings with audit
THE government intends to undertake an audit of all the properties it currently owns or rents, in an effort to best streamline its facilities portfolio in the coming years, press secretary Anthony Newbold said yesterday.The announcement came during M
Man denies defrauding 11 of $50,000 in vehicle scams
A 31-year-old man was charged in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday with defrauding 11 people of more than $50,000 in the furtherance of a vehicle scam, while operating under several names.Shane Mackey, aka Arnold Smith, Ashwood Bodie and Devargo Saunder
Survey as govt takes steps to boost health
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands on Monday announced the launch of the 2018 STEPS health survey in conjunction with the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO).The survey, which is carried out globally in five year periods
Kingdom Centre says it's time to turn away from trick or treat
INSTEAD of participating in the various Halloween affairs around town, the Kingdom Discipleship Centre is encouraging Bahamians to engage in other wholesome activities that “bring glory and honour to God”.The centre in partnership with the several lo
NPWBA season promises to be exciting with more teams
AFTER hosting a successful preseason tournament for high school girls, the New Providence Women’s Basketball Association is now focusing their attention on the start of the 2018/19 season.According to newly elected president Devin Johnson, the season
Steering youths away from risk
THE Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development in conjunction with the Urban Renewal Commission held its third annual ‘Youth-at-Risk’ one-day seminar at Salem Union Baptist Church yesterday.Aimed at providing youth from rural areas affected by
Sacred Heart to hold steak-out
SACRED Heart Roman Catholic Church will hold its annual steak-out and mini-fair this Saturday, with organisers announcing fish has now been added to entrée offerings.
Question of Halloween
On Sunday past, I was asked my thoughts on whether Christians should celebrate Halloween. It is a great question, but it is one that Scripture does not speak to in a direct manner, as is the case with many issues that we as Christians have to think through. Therefore, in responding to the question asked on Sunday, my hope is that my approach can serve as a guide for how we should consider matters that Scripture does not specifically address.
Byron Ferguson making a name for himself in Greece
Byron Ferguson Jr continues to shine in his pro volleyball career in Thessaloniki, Greece. The 29-year-old, 6-foot, 6-inch middle blocker is back with the Iraklis, who are currently 1-1 since they resumed play in October to sit in fourth place in Gr
Bran: Alternatives needed to 'crushed' financial services
The Bahamas was yesterday urged to explore alternative industries to its “crushed” financial services sector, the DNA’s former leader warning: “Let’s not fool ourselves.”Branville McCartney told Tribune Business that this nation was “complying itself
'Skeletons in closet' fear on fiscal report
Governance reformers yesterday expressed fears that the Government’s finances may still contain “skeletons in the closet” because of its continued reliance on cash-based accounting.Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (ORG) pri
DPM: Full VAT impact may not be till new year
The Government “may be a little behind” its 2018-2019 fiscal projections, it was revealed yesterday, with the full VAT rate hike impact not felt until the New Year.KP Turnquest, pictured, deputy prime minister, told Tribune Business that the Ministry
National debt grows $137m
The Bahamas’ national debt increased by $136.5m during the 2018-2019 fiscal year’s first quarter, taking the total sum owed by this nation to around the $8bn mark. The Ministry of Finance’s “snapshot” report, its first effort at quarterly financial r
NAD's debt refinancing launch before year-end
The Nassau Airport Development Company’s (NAD) $125m-$130m is due to come to market before year-end 2018, a senior Royal Fidelity executive has revealed.Jim Wilson, the investment bank’s vice-president of corporate finance, confirmed in a press relea
Securities Commission 'shifting the narrative'
The Securities Commission has joined a small group of regulators approved to be signatories to the International Organisation of Securities Commissions’ (IOSCO’s) new enforcement-related information-sharing agreement.The new Enhanced Multilateral Mem
BTVI receives technology gift
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) recently received a donation of 13 desktop computers and 15 monitors for its Student Resource Centre.Retired accountant, Robert V Lotmore, partnered with Custom Computers to make the donation in h
Tuesday, October 30
BTVI boosted by donation from Custom Computers
THE Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute recently received a generous donation of 13 desktop computers and 15 monitors to be used in its student resource centre.Retired accountant Robert Lotmore partnered with Custom Computers to make this dona
10302018 EDITION
Tuesday, 30th October, 2018.
Man found stabbed to death outside Okra Hill City Lodge
POLICE are investigating the death of a man found stabbed and wrapped in a sheet in a bushy area outside the Okra Hill City Lodge property yesterday.
FACE TO FACE: From humble beginnings to the NFL
When Edwin A Smith was a little boy growing up in Bain Town in the 1950s, there were great Bahamian athletes making it to the big leagues in baseball or track and field. So, little boys had much to aspire to if they wished to become a professional athlete. But Ed, who spent his afternoons shooting marbles, flying kites, playing stick ball, wrestling, or swimming on Long Wharf beach during the summers, had no idea at the time he would one day make Bahamian history as the first to go pro in an entirely different sport.
'Govt should have talked to unions on tax'
WHILE he agrees that sugary drinks should be taxed, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union president Paul Maynard criticised the government for its lack of comprehensive consultation with unions over the proposed two percent salary tax to pay for National
We can't offer you any more money, says Sands
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said officials expect healthcare services to be negatively impacted this week if the Bahamas Nurses Union continues to protest, adding some elective procedures could be postponed or cancelled.Calling the situation “unfo
Campbell confirms the kids in limbo
THE Bahamas-born grandchildren of Haitian migrants are recognised by the government as stateless, according to Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell, who told a United Nations body the government is working to amend the Nationality Act to ensure no one falls through the cracks.
DRIVER TO PAY $10K FOR PARKING PUNCH-UP
A HOTEL worker was yesterday ordered to pay a woman $10,000 for throwing her to the ground over a parking dispute near a Paradise Island parking lot last month.
Will firms abandon private health?
SOME Bahamians with comprehensive employer-sponsored group health insurance plans fear businesses will drop these and provide only the minimum benefits required by the Minnis administration’s proposed National Health Insurance scheme.
STALEMATE: Nurses walk out and threaten more to come
NURSES yesterday upped the ante in their resistance to an impending “slavery” shift change by staging staggered lunch break walkouts, which slowed service at Princess Margaret Hospital and public health facilities throughout the country.
Davis: 'It's an honour for them to have recognised me'
ALTHOUGH she was one of the pioneers for women’s basketball in the country, Linda Davis was surprised that she was honoured by the New Providence Women’s Basketball Association.Over the weekend, the NPWBA held its annual All-Girls High School Basketb
PRESS BOX: Could Anthony Davis be the next superstar centre for Lakers?
DON’T get it twisted, this is not an open embrace for LeBron James, just a simple thank you. Yes, thank you LBJ for putting a muzzle on the overly annoying and irritating LaVar Ball. Yes, Lonzo’s daddy!!The outspoken, erratic father of Lonzo Ball use
Second annual Faye Rolle Classic all set for UB auditorium this Saturday
THERE’S a change in venue and the number of novice bodybuilders competing, but the Bahamas Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (BBFF) anticipates the same level of excitement at the second annual Faye Rolle Classic.The big event will also see the int
Time for the Roland T Symonette building
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas is in desperate need of a Post Office Department. Instead of all the back-and-forth talks, something should be done and soon.
Nurses in GB stage solidarity protest
STANDING in solidarity with their counterparts in New Providence, nurses on Grand Bahama staged a protest outside Rand Memorial Hospital yesterday morning to voice their disapproval over an eight-hour shift change that is being implemented by the Pub
Police hunt for armed robbers
POLICE on New Providence are seeking the public’s assistance in solving two armed robberies which occurred on Sunday.Police were told the first incident happened shortly after 9pm, when two armed men entered a gaming house on Market Street and Bahama
Time to celebrate life of Bahamian cultural icon Moxey
A WEEK-LONG cultural festival is set for next month to honour the memory of Bahamian icon and politician Edmund Moxey.Shanendon Cartwright, executive chairman of the Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority, said Moxey was a “cultural icon”
Government shouldn't have to bail out sporting events
The promo for the American Football Bowl - Nassau is laughable…as the American gives praises on praises behind him, the video shows precisely why this event should have been cancelled - the bleaches are totally empty.
We deserve transparency over Exuma
OPEN LETTER TO THE BAHAMAS NATIONAL TRUST:
CFAL launches Junior Investor programme
CFAL has launched its Junior Investor Education programme 2018-2019, marking the 17th year in which it has educated young Bahamians on the importance of financial literacy and saving.The initiative also introduces students to the different investment
Govt: 'No party yet' as VAT slashes deficit 52%
The Ministry of Finance’s top official yesterday said it was “not preparing to throw a party just yet” despite increased VAT revenues driving a 52 percent cut to the Government’s fiscal deficit. Marlon Johnson, acting financial secretary, told Tribun
Two face court on separate murder charges
A 20-year-old man was charged yesterday with killing a man last week who had himself been recently acquitted of murder.Ivans Dodo, of Meadow Street, is accused of murdering Jamal McSweeney on October 21, just months after McSweeney had been acquitte
EDITORIAL: Bahamas, Gun Laws and Lessons of the Pittsburg Massacre
At 9:57 on Saturday morning, gunshots shattered the peace of Tree of Life Synagogue in a quiet section of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Within minutes, in one of the oldest houses of worship in the United States, 11 people would be dead including a 97-year-old man who, determined to thank God for life, made it to the temple where he would die as he prayed. Police rushed into the line of fire. Four were injured as they captured and arrested 46-year-old Robert Bowers, a man poisoned by hate and armed with three Glock handguns and an AR-15 assault rifle. “I just want to kill Jews,” he screamed.
Govt 'should be embarrassed' over abortion law backtrack
AN activist has suggested that government delegations appearing before international treaty bodies either set out to be “intentionally deceptive,” or local officials are allowing pressure groups to stifle or reverse efforts to expand women’s rights.A
Three men deny charges in $4m marijuana haul
THREE Grand Bahama natives yesterday denied allegations of being caught with close to $4 million worth of marijuana while in waters off South Andros last week. Kenny Major, Patrick Bain, and Brian Marshall each pleaded not guilty to several drug rela
Attorney gravely ill in hospital
PROMINENT Freeport attorney Rawle Maynard is gravely ill in the Intensive Care Unit at Rand Memorial Hospital in Grand Bahama.The attorney reportedly took ill at his home on Saturday after attending a funeral and was transported to RMH.The Tribune co
Natural remedies - you know it makes scents
FOR BAHAMIAN woman Corey Cartwright, the road to becoming a small business owner has so far been a rewarding experience.
Helping youngsters make sense of their money
HAVING been a member of the Royal Bahamas Police Force for the past three decades, Gabrielle Pratt has seen what the lack of money can lead people to do.
Meal Prep – A key to staying on track
I love to cook! In actuality, that may have been a major contributing factor to me putting on so much weight in the first place.
Reaching out to lift the lid on mental health
AS A fitness enthusiast and a person who genuinely cares for peoples’ physical and mental health, Alex Pelanne of Bombshell Fitness recently hosted what she calls a much needed “Mental Health” social media live-talk.
Common Breast Cancer Myths
October is the Breast Cancer Awareness month where we highlight on education, prevention and cure of Breast Cancer. It is essential to know the facts regarding breast cancer prevention and its treatment in order to reduce the risk. Let us debunk some common myths about breast cancer.
Swimming: Bastian and Higgs make a splash in the Atlantic
FRESHMAN sensations Izaak Bastian and Lilly Higgs delivered impressive performances on the Atlantic Coast Conference Swimming circuit for their respective programmes last weekend.Bastian swam to a pair of individual wins for the Florida State Seminol
QC Comets senior girls, boys take national high school softball titles
THE Bahamas Softball Federation and the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s National High School Softball Championships ended with the Queen’s College Comets senior girls and boys taking the titles.
Buddy cans 23, Kings top Heat
MIAMI (AP) — Sacramento’s offensive approach was not exactly elaborate: Run, run, run and keep running.Once the Kings got rolling, Miami had no answers.Willie Cauley-Stein scored 26 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, Buddy Hield added 23 points and the
NCAA Football: Bahamians hit the gridiron
THE weekend of NCAA football at the Division I and Division II levels featured several Bahamian players on the field.Michael Strachan continues to post impressive individual numbers for the UC Charleston Golden Cougars, Chris Ferguson and the Cincinn
BPL chief refutes generation deal ‘madness’ claim
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) yesterday defended its hiring of an extra ten megawatts (MW) of expensive diesel-burning generators from fierce union criticism that it “makes no sense”.
Govt misses $12.6m in web shop revenue
The Government narrowed its first quarter fiscal deficit by 52 percent despite missing out on a projected $12.6m revenue increase in web shop taxation, it was revealed yesterday.Marlon Johnson, the Ministry of Finance’s acting financial secretary, sa
Scanning firm's training facility eyes 150 jobs
A Bahamian firm yesterday revealed it is aiming to create between 120-150 jobs through constructing a $2m training facility in west Grand Bahama.BOARDSECU, in a statement issued yesterday, said the facility will be used to train Bahamians and other n
Lay-offs cut govts wage bill by $20m
Contract worker terminations and early retirements enabled the Government to slash its civil service wage bill by $20m during the fiscal year’s first quarter, it was revealed yesterday.The Ministry of Finance’s “snapshot” of the three months to end-S
Doctors names top RBC chief to board
Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) Bahamian managing director has been appointed to Doctors Hospital’s board of directors.“We consider ourselves most fortunate to have someone with Nat Beneby’s experience and expertise in the financial world join Doctors H
Monday, October 29
10292018 EDITION
Monday, 29th October, 2018.
'Electricity cost oppression of residents cannot continue'
COALITION of Concerned Citizens, a Grand Bahama activist group, has said “the economic oppression” of residents there cannot continue as it relates to the high cost of electricity.Pastor Eddie Victor, president of the coalition, said both businesses
INSIGHT: What is a politician’s word worth?
Prime Minister Minnis’ tenure has not been short of blunders and contradictions - as any cursory search through his soundbites would reveal. A host of his campaign postures have since been walked back in some way or another. Dr Minnis, shortly after being sworn in as prime minister, made a bold proclamation to his ministers that reverberated throughout the nation. He cautioned his ministers against corruption, conflicts of interest and any unethical behaviour.
INSIGHT: A few words of advice to help a government off course
Over the past several months, a theme has emerged in public commentary suggesting that despite near universal high hopes following the landslide victory of May 10, 2017, the Minnis Administration has strayed badly off course and is haemorrhaging support on a daily basis.
Nurses threaten week of unrest
NURSES are planning to demonstrate this morning at the Princess Margaret Hospital to protest an impending shift change, with some nurses saying they would rather “quit” than work the new hours.
Govt denies move on abortion law
THERE are no plans to make abortion legal in The Bahamas, Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday in response to questions over claims made by a senior health official at the 71st Session of the Committee on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in Geneva last week.
Cops probe body found in bushes
POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a man’s partially decomposed body found in bushes in the Cowpen Road area yesterday.
Travel delay may have hurt Taranique
SICK teen Taranique Thurston is expected to go through another two weeks of testing before doctors in Florida determine when and how they will treat her brain cyst and the resulting fluid that has collected around her brain.
Kings exercise team option on Buddy Hield
BUDDY Hield has increased his scoring and productivity with back-to-back 20-point games and the Sacramento Kings exercised the team option on the third-year guard.
Financial issues force PLP to delay convention
THE Progressive Liberal Party has postponed its national convention to next May. The official reason for this is to improve the party’s platform and get its branches ready. However, privately some acknowledge that financial constraints are the major
EDITORIAL: Another chance to be presidential and Trump blows it again
When the US Postal Service delivered over a dozen potentially lethal pipe bombs to public figures last week, Americans were immediately reminded that all of these intended victims, from former President Barack Obama to former CIA director John Brennan, have been frequent targets of the demagogic rhetoric of Donald Trump.
Bradley Roberts ran his race well
THE most untimely death of Bradley Roberts, former long time member of parliament for the great constituency of Bain & Grants Town and cabinet minister extraordinaire, marks the end of a political era in our wonderful nation. My deepest sympathies and condolences go out to his widow, the children and immediate family. As long as there is a Bahamas, Bradley will always be fondly remembered.
All doctors and nurses deserve better conditions
Strikes and strike votes are action taken as a mean of protest where employees try to force their bosses to consider their demands regarding working conditions, salaries and many other concerns.
Healthcare 'stagnation' warning if NHI rejected
BAHAMIANS have been warned that the drive towards affordable, quality healthcare for all will “stagnate” if they do not back the Government’s revised National Health Insurance model.Dr Duane Sands, minister of health, told Tribune Business it would
Beware the 'mental midgets'
The freedom of expression which we welcome and are now free to enjoy here in The Bahamas must cause us to lift the level of debates on crucial national issues. Most right-thinking people would agree that we are losing sight of civility and humanity in our national debates and dialogue.
Major wins his ‘last dance’ by knockout
Meacher Major brought the pain one last time and ended his storied boxing career with a knockout win in what he called a “homecoming” for himself, family, friends and supporters.
WORLD VIEW – Overcoming fear: Key to Belize’s future
IN the introduction to his quite remarkable new book on the long-running Guatemalan claim to Belize, the author, Assad Shoman, makes the riveting comment that “Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but not to their own facts”.
GAIN AN EDGE: How BTVI’s teaching gave Valentino the chance to climb the ladder of success
Before Valentino Burrows enrolled at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), he admits to “floating through life.” He began his post-secondary pursuits at a local institution of higher learning, but it was not a good fit for him. It was not until he began classes at BTVI that he began soaring.
Welcome home for RBDF sailors
AFTER completing her refit at the Maaskant Shipyard in Stellendam, in The Netherlands, Her Majesty’s Bahamian Ship Bahamas arrived the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s Coral Harbour Base on Saturday. The 24-day journey took the ship’s company from The N
Chris Brown new assistant coach at Clayton State
CHRIS ‘The Fireman’ Brown, the country’s most decorated quarter-miler, has decided to step away from competing after an illustrious 20-year career and focus on his new challenge as an assistant coach at Clayton State in Morrow, Georgia.
Ayton delivers in loss to Grizzlies
WITH lead guard Devin Booker sidelined, Deandre Ayton stepped up and delivered the best offensive performance of his young NBA career thus far.
Senior nationals: Winners get their trophies
SATURDAY marked the end of a very exciting two weeks of competition at the Gym Tennis Centre where the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) Senior Nationals was held.
NPWBA ALL-GIRLS BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT GETS HIGH MARKS
THE St John’s College Giants and the White Team were a little too much for the Jordan Prince William Falcons to handle in the junior and senior girls’ championship games in the New Providence Women’s Basketball Association’s All-Girls Basketball Tournament.
AG: Prosecutions rise 40-fold over money laundering
The Bahamas will have resolved “99.9 percent” of the remaining weaknesses in its anti-financial crime defences by year-end, with money laundering prosecutions having increased 40-fold.Carl Bethel QC, the Attorney General, yesterday told Tribune Busin
Margaritaville battle back on
Margaritaville’s Bahamian franchisee has not given up on its bid to block the brand’s tie-up with the $250m Pointe project, refiling its lawsuit in Florida state courts.The US attorneys for Boss Investments, whose principals are Peter Maury and Mike
Attorney loses Colina battle
A Bahamian attorney has lost his battle with Colina Insurance Company after the appeals court rejected claims that his $150,000 life insurance policy had “unlawfully lapsed”.Dorsey McPhee, representing himself, had challenged Justice Indra Charles’s
Union leader 'not screaming' on NHI funding
A trade union body is “not screaming” about the need to finance National Health Insurance (NHI) given that its members will not have to pay any extra from already-stretched salaries.Bernard Evans, pictured, the National Congress of Trade Unions (NCTU
Sterling Global appoints investor relations chief
Sterling Global Financial, the Bahamian headquartered financial provider, has named Karyn Phuong as its vice-president for investor relations.Ms Phuong will manage Sterling’s corporate communications strategy, and be a key member of the executive tea
Financial services provider in 10th birthday donation
A Bahamian financial services provider has donated to the Bahamas Down Syndrome Association and its restaurant, Ty’s Place, to mark its tenth anniversary.Normally, a quiet giver, owner and president of FC Capital Investments Ltd (FCCI) Alexander Murb
Bran on NHI: 'We can't take more tax'
THE Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) ex-leader yesterday blasted the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) payroll levy, saying: “No more taxes, period”.Branville McCartney, pictured, in an interview with Tribune Business, slammed: “The Govern
'Immense pressure' on rising fuel costs
Rising fuel costs are putting “immense pressure” on businesses within the transportation sector, with one local operator describing it as a “major concern”.“Next to staff, fuel is your biggest cost. When fuel costs start to go up you have to pay atte
Sunday, October 28
Concern as gas prices break through $5 barrier
MANY motorists are upset over higher gas prices now the price of fuel at the pump has risen over the $5 mark at the nation’s three service stations. The cost of gas is now $5.05 at both Rubis and Esso, and Shell, having the cheapest fuel on the isla
Three injured in weekend shootings
TWO men and a teen are in hospital following three separate shootings over the weekend.
Friday, October 26
American woman and her brother charged with breach of Immigration Act
AN American woman accused of harbouring her brother illegally in the Bahamas was charged in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday for breach of the Immigration Act.
One man charged with armed robbery, another with receiving
IN the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Friday two men were charged, one with armed robbery and the other with receiving.
Blue Lagoon to host cancer survivors event
THE organisers of a local campaign aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer are holding an event at Blue Lagoon on Sunday, November 4, to acknowledge and honour cancer survivors.
Three held after $3.85m drug bust
THREE men are in custody after a multi-agency task force intercepted a go fast boat in waters off South Andros and recovered nearly four thousand pounds of suspected marijuana.
Nurses arrange meeting over new shift system
NURSES nationwide have hastily arranged a meeting for Friday night to respond to the Public Hospital Authority’s announcement that a new shift system for them will go into effect on December 10th.
Local schools get ocean conservation presentation
THE Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation and the Norwegian Cruise Line hosted a presentation on ocean conservation for four local schools yesterday at the Bahamas National Trust Retreat.
'Preserving the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice'
THE Rotary Club of East Nassau on Friday were invited to consider the theme of “how to preserve the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for world peace” as the Bahamas celebrates Remembrance Day.
Three charged in Freeport Magistrate’s Court
THREE men appeared in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Friday on a number of offences, including attempted armed robbery, assault with a deadly instrument, and causing grievous harm.
PLP postpones convention to May, 2019
THE Progressive Liberal Party has postponed its national convention to next year May.
10262018 EDITION
Friday, 26th October, 2018.
Big bad Brad - a ferocious advocate of the PLP
KNOWN for his political quips and acerbic attacks on his opponents, Bradley Roberts will go down in the annals of history as a fierce defender of the Progressive Liberal Party.
Rebels face ‘ultimatum’ - toe line or exit party
The FNM will host a conclave on November 2 featuring parliamentarians, senators and constituency association executives.
Who's in charge? Mostly women, apparently
WOMEN hold the majority of senior leadership positions in nearly every public sector but politics and law enforcement, according to statistics presented by Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell yesterday.
Minnis: Health levy not yet signed off
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday the two percent salary contribution proposed by the National Health Insurance Authority to fund its health insurance scheme is not set in stone.
PASSING OF A PLP FIREBRAND: Bradley Roberts dies after sudden collapse at home
BRADLEY Roberts, former Progressive Liberal Party chairman and Cabinet minister, 74, died suddenly yesterday at his home where he collapsed and could not be revived.
'Punching bag': Bahamas hit by new financial blow
The Bahamas was yesterday branded “a punching bag” after its financial services industry was dealt a fresh blow by global anti-money laundering overseers.KP Turnquest, the Deputy Prime Minister, told Tribune Business that “institutional strengthen
Minnis: I'm focusing on doing what I think is right
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he is not focused on the four backbenchers who have occasionally bucked his administration’s agenda, sometimes in caustic tones. Golden Isles MP Vaughn Miller, Centreville MP Reece Chipman, Pineridge MP Frederick
Sunday Service, Lost Keys and the Blame Game
Sunday service is usually my weekend’s highlight. I’m prepped for “Warfare, Worship and a Word” that I can meditate on for the coming week. This Sunday, the stage was set – prayers had been prayed, songs had been sung and the Man of God was just as a
Jamaican who 'fathered two children in Bahamas' deported
A Jamaican national was yesterday fined and ordered to be deported after pleading guilty to an immigration related offence.Gary Anthony Clarke, 43, of Westmoreland, Jamaica, appeared before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans on a single charge of o
Students find out how to use Braille
STUDENTS at First Step Academy celebrated the school’s annual literacy week on Monday, which included a demonstration on Braille and sign language.The event opened with students and teachers showcasing diversity from various countries such as the Bah
Recidivism rates still far too high, says BDCS acting commissioner
OVER the past few years, the recidivism rate at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services has been at an “unacceptable” high, BDCS acting Commissioner Charles Murphy said yesterday.However, Commissioner Murphy could not give an exact figure on
UN Council consequences
IS our election to the UN Human Rights Council going to cause extremely complicated consequences as we do not and have not been able to resolve what two national referenda tried to do?
Contractor fined $5,000 for fraud over merchandise
A CONTRACTOR was fined $5,000 yesterday or nine months in prison for his involvement in a scheme which defrauded two local businesses of thousands of dollars in merchandise.Shawn Moxey, 43, of Toote Shop Corner, stood before Magistrate Samuel McKinne
Bahamian firm wants to bring solar power to GB
A Bahamian-owned company is proposing to construct solar power plants in West and East Grand Bahama at an investment of more than $30m that it claims will not only reduce the cost of power, but provide clean power generation on the island.
Bahamas Professional Golf Tour Signature Series round 6 at Baha Mar's Royal Blue Course today
THE Bahamas Professional Golf Tour is excited to come to an audience of professional and amateur golfers today when round 6 in the Signature Series of Professional Golf Tournament will be played at the Royal Blue Golf Course at Baha Mar.After this mo
'Buddy Buckets' season high 23 in win over the Grizzlies
Buddy Hield followed up Tuesday’s disappointing game with a season high in scoring and minutes played as a part of a new-look, fast-paced Sacramento Kings offence.Hield finished with 23 points on 10-20 shooting from the field, including 3-6 from thre
Archer: 'I'm not in the business of making promises'
AS a candidate for the presidency of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations, Drumeco Archer made it emphatically clear that he’s going to be different from his predecessors Mike Sands and Rosamunde Carey.Archer, who will actually challenge
THE FINISH LINE: 'Major Pain will go down in history as one of the more feared boxers'
ON Saturday night, another outstanding Bahamian professional boxer will be hanging up his gloves as Meacher ‘Pain’ Major, who brought a lot of excitement to the ring, will be performing his swansong. One day before he celebrates his 37th birthday, M
Ed Smith: 'We knew each other from we were pee wees'
FROM playing around as kindergarten students to trying out for the National Football League, Ed Smith and Allan Ingraham are still close friends, although they ended up heading in different directions.“We knew each other from we were pee wees, going
What is the Bahamas without the Family Islands?
I want to respond to some of the things that the Acting Director of Education said about the proposed amalgamation of Cat Island schools.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Marijuana - the burning debate
THE question of, and the subsequent debates, regarding legalising marijuana in The Bahamas continues to burn (no pun intended.)
Jazz Chisholm hits his first home run in the Arizona Fall League
IT took just three games for Jazz Chisholm to hit his first home run of the Arizona Fall League and display the power hitting that has been one of his trademarks all season.Chisholm went 3-4, including his home run, with two runs scored and two RBI t
Financial Bowling League results
THE top scorer in Financial Bowling League competition on Wednesday night at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Centre was Sonith Lockhart of Rubis Oil Stars, who struck for his highest game and highest three game series ever. Lockhart mowed do
USA F28B Futures: Roberts loses in opening round
JUSTIN Roberts continues his play on the ITF Pro Circuit with the NCAA season still months away.
Believe God, not the excuses
Quitting, giving up, failing, judging – all these begin with an excuse. Never allow your life to become an alibi – which is simply egotism turned the wrong side out.You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whateve
"The Hands of God that Keep"
IT would have been much easier for Veronica Smith Jarrett to cave in, quit and bury her faith in God. After all, she’d already encountered grave misfortunes - being hit by a truck at age 12, suffering a brain tumour as a result of the accident, overc
Time to get back to our grassroots
I want to adamantly appeal to our young people here within the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. I am very much concerned with the state of the nation, and I am disconcerted with the behaviour of our young people. This subject in my opinion is axiomatic a
Harvesting Happiness
At this time of the year, we think of harvest and all the good things provided by a good and gracious God. What brings you a harvest of happiness? Let us consider our personal happiness, though our answers may vary:1. Memorable family moments, usuall
FATF 'won't stop' until Bahamas out of financial industry
Two former attorneys general yesterday agreed that the global fight against financial crime has been misused to undermine The Bahamas’ competitiveness and drive it out of financial services.Alfred Sears QC and John Delaney QC, both of whom had to dea
Ex-AG challenges beneficial owner registry proposal
A former attorney general yesterday challenged the Government’s plan to create a Beneficial Ownership Registry, arguing that it should instead simply expand the existing regulatory regime.John Delaney QC, principal at the Delaney Partners law firm, t
Drinks manufacturer: Sugar tax is a 'killer'
A Bahamian beverage manufacturer yesterday warned that the proposed “sugary drink tax’” will be a “killer” for its business, saying: “They’re trying to get rid of the industry.”Geoffrey Knowles, Aquapure’s operations manager, told Tribune Business th
Breadbasket food revisions targeted for January 2019
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the promised revision to the country’s 45 year-old breadbasket goods line-up will likely occur in January 2019.Dr Duane Sands, pictured, minister of health, told Tribune Business that a public consultation tour over
Sponging project in a race against time
Efforts to revive the Bahamian sponging industry are in a race against time to ensure all aspects of the $1.1m project can be delivered.A progress report by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), which is financing the initiative, warned that “si
IAN FERGUSON: The art of success in entrepreneurship
Successful entrepreneurship is both an art, and a science, that many seeking to own enterprises fail to grasp. It must never be entered into inadvisably. Hundreds fail each year in our local context because, perhaps, they have not counted the costs t
FINCO: Profits cut 35% with $125m bad loans
FINCO’s $125m bad loan pile resulted in a 35 percent cut to the mortgage lender’s profits for the nine months to end-July 2018, with little sign of improvement in key indicators.Management, in a statement to shareholders, blamed the more than $6.5m d
CIBC Trust names new top executive
CIBC Trust Company (Bahamas) Limited has appointed Perry A Rolle as its managing director.Mr Rolle, a career banking professional with more than 25 years’ experience, has worked in senior roles in both an operational and fiduciary capacity. In his mo
Thursday, October 25
10252018 EDITION
Thursday, 25th October, 2018.
Lloyd announces end of unlimited UWI subventions
EDUCATION Minister Jeffrey Lloyd has announced that the 2018/2019 academic year will be the last year of unlimited subventions for Bahamian students enrolled in the medical programme at the University of the West Indies.Addressing the issue in Parlia
$900,000 a year - the cost to government for leasing mall
TOWN Centre Mall will be rented at a cost of around $900,000 per year to house the General Post Office, Transport and Local Government Minister Renward Wells revealed yesterday.He explained the government intended to rent 75,000 square feet of space
Symonette declares interest in Town Centre Mall
BRENT Symonette, minister of trade, financial services and immigration declared his interest in Town Centre Mall in Parliament yesterday.He stood to declare his interest in the mall and a company called BHRSC Holding Ltd after Official Opposition Lea
Broken promise: Rebel FNM MPs say Post Office deal is election betrayal
FOUR Free National Movement backbenchers blasted their party’s decision to enter into a lease agreement for the Town Centre Mall, partly owned by a Cabinet minister, insisting the move contravenes good governance principles and violated the trust of the Bahamian people.
Minnis: Why all the fuss? Look what PLP wanted
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis defended his administration’s decision to enter a lease agreement with the Town Centre Mall during debate on the matter in the House of Assembly last night by attacking the Progressive Liberal Party’s failure to secure a stable future for the General Post Office.
Showdown looms over nurses’ shift patterns
THE Public Hospitals Authority appeared to be on a collision course with nurses yesterday, announcing it will implement a new shift system for them on December 10 despite objections from the Bahamas Nurses Union.
‘Health levy plus VAT rise too much to bear’
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip Davis yesterday knocked the government’s proposed salary tax to fund its National Health Insurance scheme as “regressive”.
Lucayan chairman targets $6-7m Hutchison 'recovery'
The Grand Lucayan’s chairman yesterday revealed he plans to “go after” Hutchison Whampoa to recover the $6-$7m Memories lease guarantee payment, as he hit back at the PLP’s leader.Michael Scott, blasting Philip Davis’s criticisms over the upcoming $2
MAN, 20, REMANDED AFTER HE IS CHARGED WITH MURDER
A 20-year-old man was sent to prison yesterday after being charged in the Magistrate’s Court with murder and attempted murder. Jeremy Thompson appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain accused of murdering Karo Bullard by means of unlawf
Tourist drowns at Taino Beach
GRAND Bahama police are investigating the drowning of a male visitor who was found unresponsive at Taino Beach earlier this week.Superintendent Walter Henderson reported that sometime after 3pm, a male tourist was snorkeling at the beach, and was dis
Archer, TEAM MECO launch bid for president of the BAAA
A SECOND slate of candidates have launched their bid for next month’s Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations elections.Under the theme “Be The Greatest of All Time...Be The G.O.A.T,” BAAA Secretary General Drumeco Archer officially launched his
Klay: 'Deandre's got such a bright future'
Golden State Warriors All-Star guard Klay Thompson shares the lofty expectations most pundits have for Deandre Ayton. Prior to the Warriors’ 123-103 win over the Phoenix Suns Tuesday night at Oracle Arena, Thompson lauded Ayton’s future impact on Ba
Munnings: 'Being a senior comes with a lot of responsibility'
TRAVIS Munnings heads into his senior season with the University of Louisiana-Monroe men’s basketball programme as its leading returning scorer, an All-Conference player and the unquestioned of the Warhawks for the 2018-19 season.“Being a senior come
Bahamas-born not the same as Bahamian-born
Mr Jean Rony Jean-Charles is only the latest person to be ushered into our constitutional waiting room in the hope of getting a prognosis on his immigration fever.
Chipman's family 'owns disputed land'
A WEEK after Tourism and Aviation Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar threatened legal action against a group he said took possession of a vacant lot next to his home, Centreville MP Reece Chipman claimed in the House of Assembly the land belongs to his fami
This Post Office move is a scandalous waste of money
I am all for capitalism and transparency. As a businessman and an entrepreneur, it has long been my observation that the current Post Office Building had deteriorated to the point where not only is it an eye sore but a clear and present danger to the public and users of that facility. Simply put, the relocation is long overdue. The question is where?
We’re far too quiet on Khashoggi murder
What is The Bahamas’ position of the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi?
Groom-to-be falls to his death on a cruise ship to The Bahamas
A PASSENGER died onboard a Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line vessel while celebrating his bachelor party last Friday on a cruise to Grand Bahama. Groom-to-be Christopher McGrory, 29, of Florida, fell from the 10th or 11th deck of the Grand Classica a few
Shooting victim identified
THE man who was shot dead on Tuesday night has been identified as Kelson Devaughn Kelly. Kelly, 22, of Parker Street was shot while at Polhemus Street around 7pm. Another man was also shot during the incident however he is in hospital in serious, but
Speaker wants end to port authority’s ‘stranglehold’
SPEAKER of the House of the Assembly Halson Moultrie said this week that the greatest challenge that Freeport faces and must be broken is “the stranglehold of the Grand Bahama Port Authority”.
NPWBA: All-Girls High School Tournament starts today
THE New Providence Women’s Basketball Association will continue its recent tradition of hosting a preseason tournament for high school basketball players seeking for an opportunity to showcase their skills.The NPWBA is scheduled to host its annual Al
Carey and 'Bonafide Innovators' take campaign to Grand Bahama
AFTER a successful launch at the beginning of the month, incumbent president Rosamunde Carey and her Bonafide Innovators team took their campaign to Grand Bahama over the weekend as they seek to win another four-year term in office of the Bahamas Ass
DIANE PHILLIPS: Remember, love doesn’t come in a computer programme
In 2013, the movie HER, the story of a lonely writer who falls in love with a computer, won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Govt urged: Avoid 'rapid fire tax increase' with NHI
The Government must avoid “rapid fire tax increases” that undermine economic growth, a top accountant warned yesterday, suggesting it may have to “phase-in” its two percent NHI payroll tax.Gowon Bowe, pictured, the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Acco
OECD's permanent residency targeting 'not really of concern'
The Deputy Prime Minister yesterday said the OECD’s targeting of the Bahamian economic permanent residency regime was “not really of concern” because it is not used for tax purposes.K Peter Turnquest, pictured, while agreeing it was “unfortunate” tha
Judge dismisses Margaritaville war
Margaritaville’s Bahamian franchisee yesterday suffered a major reversal in its bid to block the brand’s $250m tie-up with The Pointe when a US judge dismissed its lawsuit.Judge William Dimitrouleas, sitting in the south Florida federal court, ruled
ART OF GRAPHIX: Drawing the correct terms on picture use
What is the difference between photos, pictures, images, drawings and clip art? Even designers describe them all as photos, while many others simply refer to them as pictures. This helpfully avoids the dilemma of deciding which term to use, but does
Officials visit Estonia for e-government training
Senior officials travelled to Estonia for a training exercise designed to further the introduction of e-government, and paperless, more efficient services, in Grand Bahama.Kwasi Thompson, minister of state for Grand Bahama, and Elise Delancy, permane
Govts Post Office rent 87% off peak
THE Government is paying up to $90 per square foot for rental space, a Cabinet Minister said yesterday, describing the 87 percent reduction offered to the Post Office as “unprecedented”.Brensil Rolle, minister of public service, seeking to justify th
Small Business Centre in family island roll-out
The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) has kicked-off its Family Island roll-out on Exuma, meeting with the island’s Chamber of Commerce and holding a Town Hall meeting in Georgetown.Davinia Blair, the SBDC’s executive director, acknowledged th
Development Bank exploring alternative funding mechanisms
Senior Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) executives met with the Securities Commission to discuss the regulator’s Crowd Funding push and other capital markets instruments.Dave Smith, the BDB’s managing director, said Crowd Funding and products such as S
Wednesday, October 24
CITY BOWLING LEAGUE ROUND-UP
THE most valuable player (MVP) in the City Bowling League competition Monday night was Raymond Adderley of the Carib Construction, who toppled the pins for a 258 second high game and a 657 high three game series.The runner-up was Sonith Lockhart, als
10242018 EDITION
Wednesday, 24th October, 2018.
Fraudster spends birthday in prison
A FILING clerk at the post office in Mayaguana spent her birthday in prison and will serve three months behind bars after admitting to defrauding her employer of over $3,000 in cash.Akeisha Simms admitted to defrauding the Abraham’s Bay Post Office o
Mall owners to cover cost of renovations before Post Office move
PRESS Secretary Anthony Newbold said yesterday the Minnis administration is well within its rights to push ahead with its proposed relocation of the General Post Office to the Town Centre Mall, adding that the current owners of the mall will cover th
Disney decision 'in best interest of the country'
THE Minnis administration is solely concerned with providing the best for the Bahamian people, according to Press Secretary Anthony Newbold, who yesterday defended the government against criticism for its decision to back Disney’s proposal for Lighth
Taxes likely on unhealthy drinks
THE National Health Insurance Authority is proposing a tax on sugary drinks and potentially other unhealthy products be implemented July 2019 to fund health education and outreach programmes. However, the proposal, outlined in NHIA’s policy paper –
US woman’s engagement ends in court
AN American woman was ordered to pay $2,000 in fines yesterday after admitting to assaulting and cursing two police officers because she was not allowed into The Bahamas to get engaged earlier this week.
‘Why should we pick up Lucayan severance bill?‘
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip Davis yesterday blasted the government for placing the burden of Grand Lucayan severance packages on taxpayers, pointing to “myopic” and “incompetent” negotiations.
Another fatal shooting but crime figures down
A man was killed last night and another injured in a double shooting at Parker Street, off Meadows Street.
Health service funding crisis ends in landmark plan - 2% levy on wages to pay $100m costs
A CONTRIBUTORY scheme in which the salaries of every employed Bahamian will be subject to a deduction of about two per cent each month was proposed yesterday by the National Health Insurance Authority as a means to pay for universal healthcare coverage for all, including children, elderly, and the unemployed.
Police hunt robbery suspects
POLICE are looking for two suspects who committed separate armed robberies on Monday. The first incident happened shortly after 11am when a woman was sitting in her vehicle at the junction of Prince Charles Drive and Beatrice Avenue. Police said she
Equestrian Bahamas’ first horse show of the season held
THE first horse show of Equestrian Bahamas’ 2018-2019 season was held at Mariposa Stables.
First Post Office PPP in $4m limbo
The Government’s first Post Office partner yesterday revealed he has been left exposed to a near-$4m loss, and said: “I’ve never been in a situation like this before.”Scott Godet, who agreed a public-private partnership (PPP) with the former Christie
Ed Smith thrilled to be honorary ambassador
BIRTHDAY boy Ed Smith said he’s thrilled to have been selected as the honorary ambassador for the 2018 Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl.
Bahamas building links with Georgia State to help students
THE government has signed a memorandum of cooperation with Georgia State University that will facilitate expanded collaboration between the institution and The Bahamas.As a part of the agreement, Georgia State University (GSU) is also expected to int
EDITORIAL: The right step towards universal healthcare
THERE is a painful tradition in The Bahamas that perhaps, at last, the time has come to bring to an end.
A sad day for all of us in Bahamaland
Please allow me small space in your paper to voice utter disappointment in our government’s decision in granting Disneys’ development of Lighthouse Point.
Amateur Boxing Federation gets ring thanks to Albany
WITH the new administration in the Bahamas Amateur Boxing Federation taking on a new initiative on Friday night in hosting an All-Bahamian elimination event at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium, the only thing missing was a proper boxing ring.
Poor call by the president
Our university is holding a seminar-discussion session on Alcohol and Marijuana.
Avoid Oban skullduggery
Dear Prime Minister and his Cabinet:
Don't follow Vatican on death penalty
The Nassau Guardian argued in its October 12 editorial that Catholic change on the death penalty should be followed in The Bahamas.
Freeport Lions on the streets to held the blind
MEMBERS of The Freeport Lion’s Club will be hitting the streets this month selling candy to raise money to assist people with sight problems. Through its annual candy fundraising drive, the club has assisted many people over years with purchasing ey
ALICIA WALLACE: Under the microscope - how will we do?
The Convention on the Elimination of All forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), commonly known as women’s bill of rights, was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1979.
Ayton posts another double
The Phoenix Suns are going through their growing pains in the National Basketball Association and so is Deandre Ayton in his rookie season.
UB Mingoes’ Basketball season to tip off in Illinois this weekend
THE University of the Bahamas Mingoes men’s basketball team is all set to tip off its season with two games at the Governors State Jaguars Tip-Off Classic in Illinois this weekend.
New $100m NHI will be 'hard sell'
The restructured National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme’s basic coverage will cost $100m but avoid “creating another bloated government bureaucracy”, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.Dr Duane Sands, minister of health, told Tribune Business that the
Manufacturers blast NHI's $10m 'sugary drinks tax' proposal
Manufacturers yesterday hit back at plans to raise between $4-$10m from a “sugary drinks tax”, arguing that these products cannot be blamed for The Bahamas’ health crisis.Walter Wells, Caribbean Bottling Company’s president and chief executive, told
Chamber chair queries NHI $42 premium 'cap'
The Chamber of Commerce’s chairman yesterday queried if Bahamian workers will suffer reduced healthcare quality given the revised NHI scheme’s “maximum” premium contribution.Michael Maura, pictured, in an emailed reply to Tribune Business from New Yo
DPM confirms $10m payout over CLICO
The Deputy Prime Minister yesterday confirmed that the Government will make another $10m payout to CLICO (Bahamas) clients before year-end.Speaking with reporters ahead of a Cabinet meeting, KP Turnquest, pictured, said: “The Government has been maki
NHI changes to end 'falling through cracks'
THE Bahamian heath care system “lacks equity”, the National Health Insurance Authority’s (NHIA) chairman lamented yesterday, arguing that the revised scheme will prevent patients “falling through the cracks”. Dr Robin Roberts said: “What we have desi
BTVI deputy chair fulfills his promise
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute’s (BTVI) deputy chairman, Peter Whitehead, has made good on his promise to donate an Apple computer to the institution.The Apple iMac computer is to be used in further improving and maintaining the insti
Governance reformer fears 'deeper hole' over new NHI
A leading governance reform campaigner yesterday warned The Bahamas will only dig itself into an “ever deeper fiscal hole” if National Health Insurance (NHI) is not properly funded or managed.Robert Myers, a principal with the Organisation for Respon
Students lose math fear via web-based learning
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) has been using Internet-based learning systems to reduce the fear of mathematics among its students. The subject has always been daunting for Darian Smith. Since high school, he always struggled w
Tuesday, October 23
10232018 EDITION
Tuesday, 23rd October, 2018.
Bahamas ‘in solidarity’ with Trinidad and Tobago
MINISTRY of Foreign Affairs Director General Sharon Brennen-Haylock yesterday said the Bahamas is “standing in solidarity” with Trinidad and Tobago in the wake of a series of heavy rain, flooding, landslides and earthquakes all of which have affected the country over recent days.
FACE TO FACE: From pupil to the preacher they said would never last
My high school friend Valentino Williams has always been the kind of person to do things on a big scale. I always saw great ambition in my schoolmate. He would come up with great ideas and get people to join in. He could be a fierce competitor in schoolwork as well as in basketball, track and field.
Shooting victim had just been acquitted in court case
A 34-year-old man acquitted of murder in June has been identified as the man shot and killed off West Street on Sunday night.
Disney’s Lighthouse Point plan impact study to take months
DISNEY Cruise Line’s environmental impact assessment for its proposed development of Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera will take several months to complete, company Vice President of Public Affairs Kim Prunty has told The Tribune.
Man accused of robbing at gunpoint to snatch $6,000
A 20-year-old man was charged yesterday with robbing four persons, including an officer, at gunpoint of more than $6,000 worth of cash and merchandise over a two-day period, then attempting to kill someone else just five days later.
Ferguson: Anywhere is better for post office staff
BAHAMAS Public Service Union President Kimsley Ferguson has backed the Minnis administration’s decision to relocate the General Post Office to the Town Centre Mall, despite some outcry over the conflict of interest the move presents.
US trio had fake Ocean Club cards
THREE American men admitted yesterday to being caught at an eastern New Providence residence last week with fake Ocean Club resort credit cards with plans to commit fraud.
Jean Rony: I’m tired, they know who I am, they just playing a game
BAHAMAS-born Jean Rony Jean-Charles pledged yesterday to fight for his right to remain in the country as he pushed back against speculation over his ability to prove his identity.
Drug mule told: Back out and you die
A Surinamese man yesterday claimed the reason he swallowed over 100 packages of cocaine and attempted to smuggle the drugs into The Bahamas last week was because he was in too deep and would have been killed if he tried to back out of the plan.
Activists lay bare our women’s rights failure
THE country’s failed gender equality referenda was put in the spotlight as activists delivered their shadow report on the country’s efforts to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women.
Buddy Hield cans 17 in 2nd straight game to help Kings get their first win of season
BUDDY Hield is off to an efficient shooting start to his third NBA season and continues to play well in the state of Oklahoma whenever he returns to the state of his collegiate stardom.Hield scored 17 points for the second consecutive game to help th
Bahamians lead Knights to 108-93 win in season debut
LED by its group of Bahamian players, the Niagara College Knights got their 2018-19 season off to a promising start with a dominant win over last year’s top team in the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association West division.Livingston Bromwell, Van Hutc
The Other Prostate Problem - Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Prostate Cancer affects one in six men in their lifetime.Almost half of men 50 years or older are afflicted with Benign Prostate Hyperplasia BPH, a non-cancerous enlargement of a man’s prostate. Almost all men by the age of 70 years old suffer from B
Memories of mom (and Justin Timberlake)
ONE YOUNG woman’s desire to bring awareness to cervical cancer has resulted in a movement inspired by family members and friends.It was watching her very own mother battle and eventually losing her fight with cervical cancer last year at the age of 5
Life changed when I joined the early morning club
Despite what many people think, I was never really a “morning person”. I had always been someone who struggled to get out of bed during the week and never really got around to life until early in the afternoon on the weekend.I loved my bed and it was
Miller-Uibo nominated for athlete of the year
In what has been a “fun year” with the focus more on the 200 metres, Shaunae Miller-Uibo has emerged as one of the nominees for the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) Female Athlete of the Year award.On Monday, Miller-Uibo was on a list
Lucayan's 150 staff exits to cost $2-$3m
The Grand Lucayan’s chairman yesterday estimated it will cost the Government between $2-$3m to finance the voluntary departures of 150 workers seeking to leave the resort.Michael Scott, pictured, in a statement issued yesterday, confirmed that the Go
EDITORIAL: There isn't a rug large enough to hide our record on human rights abuses
What happened to Jean Rony Jean-Charles should never have happened to anyone, but it did. A man born in The Bahamas, picked up in an immigration raid, deported to Haiti, feared missing or the victim of an accident or worse, located weeks later (by a reporter for this newspaper) living in the bush in the country where he knew no one, had no papers, could not work and was more terrified than ever, his story is disconcerting to a point of alarming.
Don't lose our pride
I am a 16-year-old female born and raised in Eleuthera. Since I was born I have always had a high level of respect and appreciation for the environment.
Union ready to seek wage rises after VAT increase
THE Bahamas Public Service Union is gearing up to pursue wage increases for its members in the wake of the government’s decision to increase the value added tax rate from 7.5 to 12 percent, according to union president Kimsley Ferguson.
Doctors collaborate at 18th GBMDA
HEALTH professionals attended the 18th annual Grand Bahama Medical and Dental Association’s Scientific Educational Conference at Pelican Bay Resort on Thursday.Dr Vincent Burton, president of GBMDA, said the aim of the event was to bring doctors toge
When the carer becomes the patient
RADIATION therapist Alice Mudzemeti could never imagine having the shoe on the other foot. She went from treating and offering support to cancer patients, to becoming one herself.Her breast cancer diagnosis in September 2017, brought Alice’s life to
Knowles-Tener and Strachan face off on gridiron for the first time in college
FORMER high school teammates Mike Strachan and Rondre Knowles-Tener competed against each other on the gridiron for the first time at the collegiate level.In the NCAA Division II matchup in the Mountain East Conference, Strachan and the University of
Opportunity knocks for Gio in Vancouver
Even being selected as a finalist in the international Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series has opened up a myriad of opportunities for Vancouver-based Bahamian artist Gio Swaby, who needs the votes of supporters to advance in the competition.In the middle
Outrunning hunger in The Bahamas
HANDS for Hunger will host its first ever community fun run and walk on November 3 to help raise awareness of food insecurity.
Spay and neuter clinic helps for free
THE Mount Moriah constituency held a spay and neuter clinic in partnership with animal advocacy group BAARK! on the weekend.
Time for transparency
Lighthouse Pointe approval for Disney…We hear again - National Economic Council…where in law is this constituted? A figment of successive governments from Pindlings’ time. Look only Cabinet sitting with a quorum may make such decisions…NEC does not exist so stop!
Shredding sickle cells
LAST month, Sunryse Information Management teamed up with the Bahamas Sickle Cell Association to spread awareness and raise funds during the company’s 11th annual ‘Shred Day’ event.People were encouraged to bring personal documents to be shredded fre
Disney competitor: 'Nothing ruled out'
Disney’s Lighthouse Point rival yesterday said “nothing is off the table” over the rejection of its “game changing” proposal, which it argued had been “misunderstood” by many in Eleuthera.Shaun Ingraham, chief executive of the One Eleuthera Foundatio
NIB rejected as NHI manager
The National Insurance Board (NIB) has been rejected as the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme’s administrator because its costs are simply too high, a Cabinet minister has revealed.Dr Duane Sands, minister of health, who revealed the move at las
Private sector must do more in OECD fight
The Clearing Banks Association’s (CBA) chairman has urged the private sector to play a greater role in preventing The Bahamas from being “blindsided” by the OECD and other initiatives.Gowon Bowe told Tribune Business that the financial services indus
Perry ‘approved’ $1.5m web shop boss contract
Perry Christie and his Cabinet approved the award and financial terms of a web shop boss’s controversial $1.46m computer supply deal with the Ministry of Finance, court documents allege.
Top CIBC executive tours local branches
CIBC FirstCaribbean’s managing director of retail and business banking, Mark St Hill, recently toured the bank’s branches throughout The Bahamas.During his visit he attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the official opening of CIBC FirstCaribbean’
Govt urged: Give post office 'vision'
THE Democratic National Alliance (DNA) is urging the Government to “clearly articulate a vision and plan” for modernising The Bahamas’ postal system, as it slammed the “flawed” Town Centre Mall relocation..Buscheme Armbrister, the party’s spokesperso
Small Business Centre moves on Disney project
THE Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) yesterday said it was moving to ensure to ensure Bahamian entrepreneurs are well-placed to exploit Disney’s proposed Lighthouse Point development.Davina Blair, pictured, the SBDC’s executive director, told
Colina parent teams on digital payment solution
An electronic payment provider has teamed up with Colina Insurance’s parent company to give Bahamian consumers the ability to make cashless transactions.Island Pay’s partnership with the AF Holdings Group of Companies will introduce a convenient, eff
Bahamians urged to use trusts in estate planning
More Bahamians have been urged to use trusts as a retirement and estate planning tool to avoid costly, bitter fights over succession and family assets.Amanda Ferguson, Royal Fidelity’s trust and estates manager, argued that trusts were “more benefici
Monday, October 22
10222018 EDITION
Monday, 22nd October, 2018.
INSIGHT: Remember Minnis’ words then compare them with his new reality
LIGHTHOUSE Point has been at the epicentre of intense debate over the past few months. And the government’s approval of Disney’s proposal to invest $400m into yet another cruise port is both the culmination of an emotionally-charged campaign and, perhaps, the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back.
Bahamian students safe amid Trinidad flooding
AFTER more than three days of flooding, landslides, and an earthquake, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley yesterday declared a national disaster. Although there were no reports of damage following the earthquake – measuring 5.1 on th
INSIGHT: Climate change is coming and we have to prepare - now
A STARTLING new report says harmful effects of climate change will be experienced at a lower temperature than previously anticipated, all while the world runs out of time to do something about it.
One man dead, one injured after shooting
One man is dead and another is in hospital after a shooting off West Street on Sunday night.
‘Disney’s go-ahead shows we need plan’
ENVIRONMENTALISTS are calling for “better national planning” in terms of economic and environmental sustainability in the wake of the Minnis administration’s decision to approve Disney Cruise Line’s proposal for Lighthouse Point, South Eleuthera.
Halkitis insists: We followed the rules
FORMER State Finance Minister Michael Halkitis questioned the motive behind the recent tabling of a report in Parliament highlighting alleged political pressure for a web shop boss to be awarded a lucrative contract for computer supplies, adding proper procedure was “short circuited” when the report was made public.
$6m fine, jail and don’t come back
MORE than 120 Dominican poachers have been fined $52,000 each for “stripping” and “raping” the country’s waters of close to 70,000 pounds worth of fisheries products, with the captains of the crew ordered to pay close to double that amount - and a warning: “Do not come back.”
Post Office deal ‘doesn’t add up’
OFFICIAL Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said while the former Christie administration considered Town Centre Mall for the General Post Office’s relocation, the party stepped away from the decision as the costs associated with the move would not have been a prudent expenditure of public funds.
GB airport must 'fall in line' for Sky return
Freeport will not attract “new money” and a Grand Lucayan buyer until its airport costs “fall in line”, warns a Bahamian airline chief who stopped flying to the city two months ago.Captain Randy Butler, Sky Bahamas’ chief executive, told Tribune Busi
Japan emerges as the top team again
The five-day World Junior Judo Championships concluded last night at the Atlantis resort’s Imperial Ballroom with Japan once again emerging as the top team in the standings.
EDITORIAL: The alarm's ringing but is it already too late?
Mexico Beach is a small beach community with a population of 1,072 situated near the Florida panhandle’s so-called “Redneck Riviera”. The area’s wide sandy beaches have always beckoned landlocked visitors from neighbouring Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama, accounting for the nickname. Mexico Beach sits so directly astride the dividing line between the Eastern and Central time zones that drivers heading west from the town’s eastern boundary will gain an hour on their watches before reaching the western town line.
Parents demand action over Cat Island teacher shortage
TWENTY-FIVE parents held a demonstration outside a Cat Island high school on Friday to protest a reported “teacher shortage” at the school. Videos of the demonstration have since gone viral on social media, with participants holding signs and shoutin
These claims are old news, says Griffin
FORMER Social Services Minister Melanie Griffin insisted yesterday that concerns highlighted in a recently tabled auditor general’s report were “old” and already addressed under the previous Christie administration.She explained not only was discipli
Rape charge
A Freeport man was charged with rape on Friday in the Grand Bahama Magistrate’s Court.Jamal Jeremy Lightbourne, 33, was arraigned before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson. He was not required to enter a plea to the charge and was remanded to th
The tragedy has already unfolded
In real terms, the tragedy of Lighthouse Point has already played out.
Cat Island needs your help
THE people of North Cat Island are being victimised and neglected by the Ministry of Education, we feel, because we fought for our schools to remain open as is in the best interest of our children and our communities.
How much does crime affect tourism?
CAN the Commissioner of Police release the statistics of crimes against ‘tourists’ - petty to serious for the past six years. I suspect you will be genuinely surprised if this is not an issue.
New role for hospital administrator
Mary Walker, the hospital administrator at the Princess Margaret Hospital who was placed on temporary leave after a leaked internal memo on new fees for dialysis patients, is due to take over as head of the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre.Ms Walker
WORLD VIEW: We have to work together or be picked off, one by one
REPORTS are wrong in stating that eight Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries are on a ‘blacklist’ recently released by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) over Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Resident by Investment (RBI) schemes that they operate.
Sammy Hunter commits to the Ole Miss Rebels
SAMMY Hunter became the latest Bahamian basketball product to join the Ole Miss Rebels programme for the Fall 2019 campaign.
Higgs projected to be one of top players in the Big 12
SHE entered the Texas Longhorns programme as a heralded freshman and now Lashann Higgs is headed into her senior season projected to be one of the top players in the Big 12 conference.
‘Tum Tum’ in Phoenix Suns’ player development role
THE post playing career for Lourawls “Tum Tum” Nairn Jr begins on the staff with the Phoenix Suns.
Ayton ‘learns a lot’ in loss to Jokic and the Nuggets
THE learning curve of Deandre Ayton was apparent in his second NBA appearance against the Denver Nuggets.
Govt urged: 'Be decisive' in your OECD defence
The Government must “act more decisively” to defend The Bahamas from the OECD’s attack on its key investment product, which is “not positive no matter how you spin it”.Paul Moss, pictured, president of Dominion Management Services, told Tribune Busin
Bahamians must 'raise hell' over govt waste
Bahamians must “start raising hell” over recent revelations of government waste, fraud and questionable contracts, a governance reformer urging: “We’ve got to move past this horrible era.”Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (O
Long Island MP assured on mega project's funding
Long Island’s MP is “fairly confident” that a mega resort community will be revived, arguing that the developers would not release their plans without first obtaining the necessary financing.Adrian Gibson told Tribune Business he had been personally
Striping group: Lease report a 'professional assassination'
A Bahamas Striping Group affiliate yesterday blasted its “professional assassination” over three apartment rental deals with the Ministry of Finance, insisting it did give “value for money”.Atillio Holdings, which chose not to comment when approached
Chamber Chief calls For More 'Autonomy'
THE Exuma Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday called for greater “autonomy” and local involvement in the sustainable development of Family Island economies, while lamenting the impact of high energy costs.Pedro Rolle, the Exuma Chamber of Comme
Sunday, October 21
Man dies after industrial accident on Inagua
Police on Inagua are investigating an industrial accident which left a man dead on Sunday.
Friday, October 19
49 Dominican men admit taking undersized grouper and crawfish
CLOSE to 50 Dominican poachers have admitted to illegally taking thousands of pounds of undersized grouper and crawfish from Bahamian waters over the weekend.
10192018 EDITION
Friday, 19th October, 2018.
Woman and teen charged with attempting to smuggle drugs into Department of Corrections
A 24-year-old woman and a teenager were charged in a Magistrate’s Court on Friday with attempting to smuggle drugs into the Bahamas Department of Corrections in a plate of food earlier this week.
Accident and Emergency Week gets underway Saturday
The 2nd annual Accident and Emergency Week will kick off on Saturday, with a 5K Fun, Run, Walk event, followed by a fete and awards ceremony at the Rand Memorial Hospital grounds.
A COMIC'S VIEW: The 'was gonna' govt
This comes a bit late but I guess now is as good a time as any to congratulate the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) on winning the 2017 Bahamas General Election. Didn’t you hear? Apparently the Free National Movement (FNM) is moving to rent the Town
Disney's Lighthouse Point proposal approved by National Economic Council
DISNEY Cruise Line Island Development Ltd’s proposal for Lighthouse Point, South Eleuthera was approved by the National Economic Council Friday.
'Symonette should resign to avoid a conflict of interest'
A FORMER member of Parliament said any sitting Cabinet minister who wants to enjoy the benefits of receiving state contracts should resign his seat to avoid conflicts of interest.George Smith was referring to Immigration Minister Brent Symonette, who
‘No plan to arrest Jean Rony’ before case is heard
SOURCES close to the matter yesterday told The Tribune the government was not of the mind to re-arrest Bahamas-born Jean Rony Jean-Charles until his case is heard before the Privy Council.
US sailor's murderers lose fight to go free
THE three men convicted of murdering American sailor Kyle Bruner during his attempt to prevent a robbery of two female tourists five years ago will remain behind bars, the Court of Appeal has ruled.
Political pressure to hand out contracts? Not on my watch
FORMER Prime Minister Perry Christie said it is “astonishing” that an audit tabled in the House of Assembly asserts that political pressure from an elected official in his administration resulted in a web shop boss receiving a large contract from the Ministry of Finance.
Poachers' haul - half was undersize
ACTING Director of Fisheries Edison Deleveaux yesterday estimated that more than 20,000 to 30,000 pounds each of fishery products were on board two of the three Dominican vessels that were apprehended by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force over the weekend.
The trouble with pain
Suffering is one of the most difficult subject to teach, let alone to anticipate as a Christian. Much to the chagrin of the majority of Believers, we don’t want to go through anything as Christians in this life!There’s an erroneous philosophical ideo
Google Pixel 3 phone aims to automate more daily tasks
There’s not much about the physical details of Google’s new Pixel 3 phone that you can’t find elsewhere. That bigger display and curved design? Apple and Samsung phones already have that.But the Pixel doesn’t intend to wow people with its hardware an
Microsoft co-founder, philanthropist Paul Allen dies at 65
Paul G Allen, who co-founded Microsoft with his childhood friend Bill Gates before becoming a billionaire philanthropist who invested in conservation, space travel, arts and culture and professional sports, died Monday. He was 65.He died in Seattle f
TECH TALK
• Google plans to start charging smartphone makers to pre-install apps like Gmail, YouTube and Google Maps on Android handsets sold in Europe, a response to a record $5bn antitrust fine imposed by the European Union. The US tech company’s announceme
‘Delay decision on Lighthouse Point for 60 days’
THE group Lighthouse Point Partners has urged the government to delay its decision on Lighthouse Point for 60 days, calling for an equal and fair opportunity to present its proposal for the property to the public.
Brazilians Zarif, de Almeida to attend SSL Finals
THE 2018 Star World Champions, Brazilians Jorge Zarif and Guilherme de Almeida, are expected attend the SSL Finals 2018 December 3-8.It’s tradition and one of the SSL Finals rules of admission that the current year Star World Champions are invited to
Asking the Right Questions
When we wake in the morning, perhaps we can ask the following questions, as the decisions we make will direct the course of our day. How do you answer?1. Who will be in control of my life today so that I may be pleased with choices made?2. Do I desir
242 Colour Run rocks the streets of Nassau
THE 242 Colour Run graced the streets of Nassau for the sixth consecutive year on Sunday. The event attracted over 300 participants and scores of volunteers, all which ended up covered in sweat and colour.The event benefitted the Rotary and Rotaract
Take hold of yourself
“ALL GREAT ACHIEVERS, ALL SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE, are those who have been able to gain control over their time.” (Anonymous)All human beings have been created equal in one respect: each person has been given seven days in each week.Too many Bahamians are
Judge steps aside from MP's civil trial
A SUPREME Court judge has recused himself from hearing Fox Hill MP Shonel Ferguson’s civil trial after revelations that Official Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis is due to swear an affidavit in the matter, The Tribune can confirm.
Humane Society of Grand Bahama prepares to celebrate its first 50 years
IN 1968 the Humane Society of Grand Bahama was founded “to protect God’s creatures in times of trouble on Grand Bahama island.”
Social Services shredded records in fraud cover-up
Shredding documents to cover up fraudulent activities was “a matter of routine” at the Department of Social Services, the Auditor General has revealed.
Cancer charity hosting raffle
THE Cancer Society of the Bahamas is hosting its annual raffle on Saturday to raise funds to help cancer patients from the Family Islands.
Sports Notes
CYCLING SAWYER IS FROM SPANISH WELLS IT was incorrectly stated that Lorin Sawyer is from Abaco in the cycling story that talked about his performance at the Caribbean Cycling Championships in The Tribune on Tuesday. Sawyer is actually from Spanis
Helping women find the strength to stand again
UNDER THE theme “The Strength To Stand Again,” members of the Faith Way Christian Ministries will host its 2018 Women’s Gathering next Friday, October 26.The event will take place at the Malcom Building, East Bay Street and Victoria Avenue, starting
'Die' Stubbs wins Privy Council appeal
STEPHEN “Die” Stubbs and two other convicts’ claims that an appellate judge ought to have recused himself from sitting on their appeal on the grounds of apparent bias are “well founded” and warrants the matter being reheard, the country’s highest cou
EDITORIAL: Wiser heads would tread more carefully
In these columns two weeks ago, we took the Prime Minister to task for various failings in relation to the governance of this country. As a newspaper, we have always sought to remain measured and objective in commenting on political issues, criticising a government where we consider it necessary but without favouring one party over another despite being accused sometimes of an anti-PLP stance.
Straight to the Point ...
LIGHTHOUSE Point. So much of what I read is emotion ... are there any facts?
Attack on sovereignty
Other than the fact that both are located in the Caribbean, The Bahamas and the Dominican Republic have very little in common. Situated on the eastern part of Hispaniola, the official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish. Only 15.8 percent of the population is black.
THE FINISH LINE: More schools should keep records of their athletes' feats/achievements
WHILE interviewing coach Rupert Gardiner on Silver Lightning’s second annual William ‘Knucklehead’ Johnson Cross Country Championships that was held over the weekend, something came across my mind. I asked Gardiner if he remembered who won the battl
Bless brings a blessing to those in need
AN ordained minister is living up to her name with the start of a ministry that feeds the hungry, gives hope to the downtrodden and counsel to those in distress.Bless Miller, has been using the Abundantly Blessed Outreach ministry over the past month
Judo: Five Bahamians eliminated on day 2
Five more Bahamians made their exit on day two of the World Junior Judo Championships yesterday in the Crown Ballroom at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island.But D’Arcy Rahming Jr, one of the local coaches, said there’s still a glimmer of hope for
Ayton posts double double, Buddy scores 19 in opener
OPENING night in the National Basketball Association’s 2018/19 regular season went in opposite directions for Bahamians Deandre Ayton and Chavano ‘Buddy’ Hield simultaneously on Wednesday night. While Ayton and the Phoenix Suns pulled off a 121-100 v
Cruise line Conchman Triathlon sponsor
THE Bahamas Paradise Cruise Lines (BPCL) has been announced as the sponsor of the 2018 GBPA Conchman Triathlon.
Post Office Bank 'didn't know' the level of client deposits
The Post Office Savings Bank did not know how much money it held in customer deposits when examined by the Auditor General for the 2014-2015 fiscal year.The Government’s financial watchdog, in a report tabled in the House of Assembly on Wednesday, re
NHI catastrophic plan to cost under $1,000
The Government plans to roll-out National Health Insurance (NHI) catastrophic care plans costing “as little as $1,000 per year” within the next three to four weeks, it was revealed yesterday.Dr Duane Sands, minister of health and national insurance,
'Bolster' bidder disclosure for govt contracts amid woes
Investigators have called for the draft Public Procurement Bill to “be bolstered” on payment approvals and bidder disclosure following exposure of the Ministry of Finance’s contract woes.FTI Consulting, which probed the ministry’s computer supply and
Integrity Commission value 'reinforced' by contract woes
The Ministry of Finance’s questionable contract awards have “reinforced the value” of the Integrity Commission Bill and other planned anti-corruption laws, governance reformers said yesterday.Matthew Aubry, executive director of the Organisation for
'Crisis monitoring' over boat tragedy
The Ministry of Tourism was yesterday said to have activated its “crisis monitoring” as it braces for more international fall-out following the report into the causes of the 4C’s boating tragedy.Ellison “Tommy” Thompson, the Ministry’s deputy directo
DNA: Go beyond 'semantics' in developing OECD counter
The Democratic National Alliance (DNA) yesterday urged the Government to go beyond the “semantics” of whether The Bahamas was “blacklisted” in the targeting of its economic permanent residency regime.Arinthia Komolafe, pictured, the party’s deputy le
$20m mini-hospital 'short on support'
A Cabinet minister yesterday said the $20 million George Town “mini-hospital” is still in need of basic support services, with a shortage of qualified healthcare professionals impacting the entire Bahamas.Speaking at the Exuma Business Outlook confer
Crime fears are attack on tourism
Crime, and the fear of crime, represent an attack on the tourism industry and wider Bahamian economy, a senior Ministry of Tourism official has argued.Joy Jibrilu, the ministry’s secretary-general, told a workshop on tourist safety and security that
Chamber chief calls for more 'autonomy'
THE Exuma Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday called for greater “autonomy” and local involvement in the sustainable development of Family Island economies, while lamenting the impact of high energy costs.Pedro Rolle, the Exuma Chamber of Comme
Thursday, October 18
10182018 EDITION
Thursday, 18th October, 2018.
Ministers lack details on Long Island proposal
PORT St George developers yesterday said the proposed expansive Long Island project featuring a five-star hotel and spa, 515 luxury homes, and a 640-berth marina has all the requisite government approvals and permits.
Missing paperwork for Urban Renewal contracts
TWENTY-TWO contractors in the small home repairs programme under Urban Renewal’s Grand Bahama arm did not have the supporting documents to ensure they were verified as licenced operators, an audit tabled in the House of Assembly said yesterday.There
Jean Rony dealt court setback
COURT of Appeal justices zeroed in on a “glaring defect” in process as they set aside the landmark Supreme Court decision that saw the dramatic return of Bahamas-born deportee Jean Rony Jean-Charles and caused ripple effects to the administration of the country’s immigration laws.
Jury rules dad killed attacker in self-defence
SENIOR immigration officer Ruis Gibson - who shot and killed a man who had stabbed his son to death during a beach party in Grand Bahama in April - will not face criminal charges after an inquest found that the shooting was lawful.
Three Americans held in credit card fraud
THREE American men are in police custody after officers discovered a large amount of fraudulent credit cards, $10,000 in Bitcoins and a unknown amount of suspected cocaine in a home on Yamacraw Hill Road.
PM defends post office deal with minister
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis does not appear to be concerned about losing political capital over his administration’s decision to enter into a five-year lease agreement with owners of Town Centre Mall, one of them a sitting Cabinet minister, to house the General Post Office, telling reporters yesterday he is doing “what is right”.
Baptist group to visit Haiti and Florida after disasters
THE National Baptist Convention will be sending a delegation to Haiti on Monday to determine what aid the country needs, Christian Council President Delton Fernander said yesterday.The Christian Council will be partnering with the group and once the
Man found guilty of Freeport shooting
ALEXANDER Sweeting was found guilty of murder in the Supreme Court yesterday in the shooting death of a 40-year-old man in the Redwood Lane area almost three years ago. As the prisoner was being led away by officers outside the Grand Bahama courthous
BAMSI students dive against debris
FOR many people marine debris is out of sight, out of mind.Thankfully however, divers have the unique ability to bring to the surface what is going on beneath the waves and this is exactly what the student dive team of the Bahamas Agriculture and Mar
Roadworks alert
THE government has advised that road work is being carried out by Bahamix at Cordeaux Avenue, beginning yesterday. Additionally, paving work on Bernard Road will be suspended due to additional utility works.Motorists are asked to avoid the area if po
Blaze rips through ministry warehouse
THE Ministry of Education’s warehouse unit on University Drive was completely destroyed in a blaze late Tuesday night. This inferno was the second major fire in the nation’s capital in a 12-hour period. Education Minister Jeff Lloyd told Parliament
Woman held after drugs discovered in food plate
A WOMAN has been arrested for allegedly trying to smuggle drugs into the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services concealed in a plate of food. Police said shortly before 10am yesterday, a woman went to the correctional facility to take food to an
Murder charge is dropped
JUST over three months after a 20-year-old man was arraigned on charges of murder and attempted murder, prosecutors yesterday produced a written directive from the Office of the Attorney General requesting the more serious charge not be pursued.Matth
JUDO: Russell, Bethel eliminated
Team Bahamas opened competition with its first pair of judokas on day one as the country hosts the World Junior Judo Championships.
Tributes to Permanent Secretary
THE Cabinet Office has advised that the public service has lost a dedicated competent officer after the death of Christina Brown, deputy permanent secretary, who died on Friday, October 12. Brown joined the public service in 1973 as a clerk at the M
BAIC $150,000 theft claim 'a bold-faced lie'
THE Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation has shot down rumours that $150,000 was stolen from the corporation, saying the allegation is a “bold-faced lie”.“We wish to emphatically state that the allegation is a bold-faced lie and without an
Cuban expert goes back to school
A CUBAN percussionist visited Government High School yesterday to participate in an art and music initiative. Jose Cordova had the opportunity to listen to 13 students in grades 11 and 12 of the Government High band perform a Bahamian song in Junkan
Why I have faith in our police force
OVER the decades our Police Commissioners, who worked in the Criminal Investigation Department (CDU) learned to appreciate the need for an efficient and effective police service.
Hands off Nassau Harbour!
I read with horror the news that Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines has a bid before Government to redevelop Nassau Harbour. It seems that under Prime Minister Minnis, we risk being completely taken over by the gaudy, tacky theme park nightmare that is cruise ship tourism.
VALUE OF HUMAN LIFE
Re: ‘Please, I pray you forgive me’.
Medics to hold meeting in GB
THE Grand Bahama Medical & Dental Association will holds its 18th annual Scientific Educational Conference in Freeport beginning today at Pelican Bay Resort.
City Bowling League action
THE most valuable player (MVP) in the City Bowling League competition Monday night was the unstoppable veteran Sonith Lockhart of Carib Construction who mowed down the pins for a 257 second high game and a gigantic 700 high three game series. The run
Foot in mouth problems
Office of The Prime Minister Press Secretary – not only is this the mouthpiece of the Prime Minister and today as the Prime Minister does not like facing journalists this should be where the PM gets PR advice. Boy they are not assisting the PM as he is putting his feet in his mouth daily.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Helping the helpless but a story which fills us with shame
If you live on the eastern side of the island you see them every day – men and women in light blue shirts and khaki pants holding tin cans in the shape of a church. They wait patiently for donations, a few hundred dollars a day coming from regulars who know the work these extraordinary men and women do. They are the members of Ambassador Chorale and the money they raise helps to house, feed, clothe and teach those who have fallen through the cracks or whose drug-sodden parents are incapable of caring for them.
Ed Smith to serve as Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl honourary ambassador
ED Smith, who was a college All-American, the first native Bahamian drafted by an NFL club and played two seasons for the Denver Broncos, will serve as the 2018 Makers Wanted Bahamas Bowl honourary ambassador.Smith is scheduled to speak at a press co
SAMMY HUNTER TO DECIDE BETWEEN THE BIG 3
SAMMY Hunter has narrowed his NCAA decision down to his final three schools as he heads into his final season of prep basketball.Hunter announced via social media that he will decide between the Kansas State Wildcats, Ole Miss Running Rebels and the
Caribbean Tip-Off Classic schedule released
SCHEDULES have been released as anticipation builds for the newest initiative in Bahamian high school basketball featuring the best in international and local talent.The Caribbean Tip-Off Classic, presented by the Bahamas Basketball Federation, Carib
Chisholm makes debut with Salt River Rafters
JAZZ Chisholm got his first action for the Salt River Rafters and Lucius Fox continues to post promising numbers for Peoria Javelinas in Arizona Fall League play.Both players were featured this week by MLB.com.Chisholm went 2-5 in his debut against t
'Substandard value' on govt lease deal
Lease payments between 57 percent to 200 percent above market rate have raised questions of “preferential treatment” and “substandard value for money” at the ministry of finance.A report commissioned by the Auditor General’s Office, and tabled in Par
Politician landed webshop boss $1.5m deal
Political pressure from a former minister resulted in the award of a $1.46m computer supply contract to a web shop boss who earned a 30 percent profit margin on the deal.The revelation, by former Ministry of Finance financial secretary, Simon Wilson,
Govt beat VAT target by 46% in first months
The Christie administration beat VAT collection estimates by 46 percent during the tax’s first six months, raising further questions over how it could add $2.2bn to the national debt.The Auditor General’s report on the Government’s 2014-2015 financia
DPM seeks IMF help for financial services
The Deputy Prime Minister has urged top IMF officials to play a greater role in developing “objective” standards for assessing the Caribbean’s efforts to combat financial crime and tax evasion.K Peter Turnquest, pictured, made his call during an Octo
'Inconceivable' for Post Office woes to continue further
A Cabinet Minister yesterday said he expects the General Post Office’s relocation to be completed before Christmas, adding that it would be “inconceivable” to allow its woes to continue into the New Year.Speaking outside Parliament after tabling a re
PwC associate passes Series 7
A PricewaterhouseCoopers corporate services associate, Lashan Bannister, has passed the Series 7 exam after studying with the Nassau-based Securities Training Institute (STI).Bettina Albury, STI’s general manager, said: “We are pleased to be able to
Govt to 'spare no effort'in battle with poachers
A Cabinet minister yesterday pledged the Government will “spare no effort” in seeking out the owners of vessels found poaching in Bahamian waters, adding that winning the fight was “not about just talking strong but action”.Michael Pintard, minister
ART OF GRAPHIX: Drawing the line on good design
Do I have to draw well to be a good designer? This is one of the most frequent questions designers always ask of me, and the main reason people give for not being a designer or any type.I have witnessed designers who have created terrible sketches bu
Bahamian firm hailsits Majestic honour
Majestic Tours, the Bahamian tour operator, has won Delta Vacations’ 2018 Quality Assurance Award for the 10th consecutive year.Delta Airlines’ vacation provider created the Quality Assurance Award programme to recognize partners that provide outstan
Wednesday, October 17
10172018 EDITION
Wednesday, 17th October, 2018.
Minnis 'did not refuse aid'
PRESS Secretary Anthony Newbold has again defended Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ response to the Haitian earthquake, yesterday categorically denying the nation’s leader had expressed a refusal to send aid.Mr Newbold yesterday read out the direct w
Our relationship with Dominicans is strong, says Henfield
FOREIGN Affairs Minister Darren Henfield admitted yesterday Dominican poachers continue to pillage Bahamian territorial waters despite efforts to discourage the practice in that country dating back to the former Christie administration, but insisted
Minnis 'well aware' of concerns over prison
THE Minnis administration is well-aware of the mounting issues at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services, Press Secretary Anthony Newbold has said. Responding to questions on overpopulation at the facility and the lack of adequate funding,
Power turned off as crews battle blaze at John Chea
POLICE were called to the scene of a massive fire at John Chea #8 on Carmichael Road yesterday.
Group hopes to breathe new life into long-stalled project
STALLED Long Island project Port St George has been given new life, according to a press release announcing plans for a five-star hotel and spa, 515 luxury homes, and a 640-berth marina.
We’re making progress on poaching plague
BAHAMAS Commercial Fishers Alliance Vice President Keith Carroll yesterday described poaching as a “plague” that is afflicting the country and dubbed the weekend arrest of 124 Dominican poachers as “one of the best things” to have ever happened in the southern Bahamas.
Lighthouse Point D-day delayed for 72 hours
THE government’s decision on Lighthouse Point is now expected to be made on Friday, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday.
Judges order ‘killer’ retried
THE Court of Appeal has ordered a retrial for a man previously convicted of stabbing another man to death five years ago.
OECD rattles its sabre on investor residency
The Bahamas’ major investment product was yesterday singled out for allegedly undermining the fight against global tax evasion in a move one realtor branded “a damn disgrace”.
Post Office’s new landlord - Brent?
THE government is expected to bring a resolution to Parliament today which will allow the Minnis administration to rent facilities at the Town Centre Mall to house the General Post Office, a move that could bring an end to years of turmoil for workers at the facility and months of anguish for Bahamians that depend on its operations.
More than 500 fee increases for hospital 'by end of year'
THE government is preparing for push back more than 500 potential fee increases at the Princess Margaret Hospital to be implemented before year’s end, Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday, as he suggested civil servants may also be affected
A lifeline we must throw
Certain so-called opinion leaders have worked themselves into quite a lather because the government has stepped into the breach to stop what surely looked like an economic tsunami hitting Grand Bahama.
$6m for new fleet of police vehicles
POLICE Commissioner Anthony Ferguson distributed more than 50 new vehicles, valued at about $6m, yesterday to various divisions and departments of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, including the new branch located in Grand Bahama. Commissioner Ferguso
Pintard promises stiffer penalties against poachers
MARINE Resources Minister Michael Pintard yesterday promised stiffer penalties for poachers caught in Bahamian waters as he described as “tragic” the quantity of undersized lobsters caught by the 124 Dominican poachers who were arrested over the week
Thanks to Mr Nygard
I write this letter to express my personal feelings about the kindness and profound generosity toward me and my sick child from Mr. Peter Nygard.
Two BAIC directors removed from posts
TWO directors on the board at the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation have been removed.Officials confirmed to The Tribune that directors Bernard Adderley and Mark Turnquest will be replaced by Bar Association President Khalil Parker and
Man cleared of BTC robbery
A Supreme Court jury has acquitted a man previously accused of robbing a BTC store at gunpoint eight years ago.
D'Aguilar threatens legal move
MINISTER of Tourism and Aviation Dionisio D’Aguilar threatened legal action against a group he alleged had taken possession of a vacant lot next door to his home, a situation which led to a confrontation with his wife and an unidentified man that was shared on social media yesterday.
Time for the Post Office to deliver
I am wondering if it is possible for our Post Office, could offer some partial service, with regards to placing mail(s) in our boxes.
‘Bahamas Showcase’ gets stamp of approval
MINISTERS of Sports and Tourism, Lanisha Rolle and D’ionisio D’Aguilar respectively, put their stamp of approval on the return of the ‘Islands of the Bahamas Showcase’ for the third time in November by participating in a press conference for the visiting teams in Baltimore, Maryland, last Thursday.
Thompson 13th overall in 400MH at Youth Olympics
WHILE the third Youth Olympic Games will come to a close on Thursday, the Bahamas ended competition yesterday with Matthew Thompson competing in the men’s 400 metre hurdles.
UB Mingoes judo athletes to represent Bahamas
DESMONDO Bootle, Dre Hall and Raven Pennerman, three University of the Bahamas Mingoes judo competitors, are expected to represent the Bahamas in the International Judo Federation’s Junior World Championships this week at the Atlantis resort.
Sawyer shines at Caribbean Cycling Championships
LORIN Sawyer was the lone representative from the Bahamas Cycling Federation to compete in the Caribbean Cycling Championships in the Dominican Republic last week.
Govt targets $12m saving in scrapping cruise rebate regime
The Minister of Tourism yesterday revealed the Government could save $12m per year after it completely “scrapped” the tax incentive regime for cruise lines.Dionisio D’Aguilar, pictured, speaking ahead of a Cabinet meeting, said the departure tax reba
Govt targets 2.5% GDP growth goal
The Government is targeting 2.5 percent GDP growth as a “reasonable” short-term goal, asserting that the IMF’s recent assessment is “a boost of confidence” for its economic plans. KP Turnquest, deputy prime minister, told Tribune Business in a recent
Businessman 'a sad case' says court
The “sad case” of a Freeport businessman, who paid off a company’s $103,259 mortgage debt only for the property to be sold from under him, has won “considerable” judicial sympathy.But the Court of Appeal said it was still unable to rule in Cyril Minn
QC: OECD goal posts movement ‘very disturbing’
A prominent QC yesterday said he was “very disturbed” that the OECD again appeared to have “moved the goal posts” on The Bahamas and other international financial centres (IFCs).
DPM intervenes at world bank meeting
K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister and minister of finance, last week attended the 2018 annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Bali, Indonesia. He is pictured, second right, at a Caribbean Caucus Round Ta
Bahamas hosts financial industry delegate briefing
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) hosted a successful briefing session for delegates attending the recent Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) conference in Mexico City.The event, held on October 4, attracted more than 150 finan
Bahamian realtors join global network summit
Representatives from Bahamas-based HG Christie were among more than 250 agents who attended last month’s invitation-only Christie’s International Real Estate network meeting.The event took place at Christie’s flagship auction house at Rockefeller Pla
Tuesday, October 16
FACE TO FACE: How a lasting love grew out of tragedy
When Lucy Lightbourne was in her prime at 30 years old, she had a lot going for her. She had just bought a new car and was serving as the manager of Anne’s Paradise, a popular restaurant and lounge on Thompson Boulevard owned by Elridge Smith.
Bahamas will defend itself against poachers
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday said foreigners poaching in Bahamian waters are “totally unacceptable” and underscored that law enforcement agencies have a “vested responsibility” to protect the country from any acts of terrorism an
KEEP YOUR HANDS OFF: Sir Frankie dealt blow over land ownership - but locals lose out too
Sir Franklyn Wilson, pictured, yesterday pledged that the Privy Council’s rejection of his development company’s claim to 2,086 acres “in no way changes our plans and commitment” to South Eleuthera.
Nygard racks up new court setback
A Florida district judge’s decision to dismiss Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard’s lawsuit against an investigator hired by Save The Bays (STB) was upheld by a federal appeals court.
Expat workers face visa fingerprinting
WORK permit holders will now be fingerprinted as the Department of Immigration continues to roll out its new digital system.
Max security built for 200 holds 1,000
THE Bahamas Department of Correctional Services is over-populated, understaffed and underfunded, however Acting Commissioner of Corrections Charles Murphy yesterday insisted the facility’s performance was up to par.
Margarita war - PI v The Pointe
Margaritaville’s Bahamian franchisee is urging the US courts to block the brand’s $250m operating partner deal with The Pointe and prevent it suffering “irreparable injury”.
Why are we selling off our birthright?
As I prepared to write this letter I serendipitously clicked on one that was written in May 2017 which expressed the sense of optimism and anticipation I felt for the new beginning following the election that, sad to say, has been short lived. That 2017 positive energy is draining away - I am so fed up of being fed up when one gubment tends to be as disappointing as the last!
Romi's clean-up crusaders
MINISTER of Environment Romauld Ferreira yesterday launched ‘Be a Hero, Keeping the Bahamas Clean, Green and Pristine,’ a school-based campaign aiming to change the culture of young Bahamians and to instill pride in their surroundings. Mr Ferreira sa
Govt doubles number of lots for homeowners
THE government has increased the number of serviced lots to be offered to prospective homeowners.This comes in response to the initiative being “fully subscribed”, according to Housing and Environment Minister Romauld Ferreira who said officials have
Prison officer fined after being caught with drugs
A 21-year-old corrections officer and his cousin were both fined $2,000 yesterday for being caught with almost ten ounces of marijuana over the weekend that the former allegedly planned to deliver to someone at the Bahamas Department of Correctional
Promoting eye health
THE “working population is going blind due to avoidable conditions” like diabetes and hypertension, according to a Bahamian ophthalmologist who is stressing the need for annual examinations and proper eye care.
Second man charged with attempted armed robbery
A FREEPORT man was charged with attempted armed robbery and causing grievous harm on Monday in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court in connection with an incident at a web shop.Drexton Belony, 35, of Freeport, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debby
Minnis' comments dismissing destruction of land 'crazy'
ENVIRONMENTAL activist Joseph Darville yesterday criticsed Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for comments he made last week regarding Disney’s proposed development at Lighthouse Point in South Eleuthera.“That is one of the most craziest statements I’ve
Training programme to reach at-risk youths
RECOGNISING the correlation between unemployment and crime, the Ministry of National Security yesterday signed a contract with the National Training Agency that will provide job training for 260 at-risk youth.The 12-week long programme will begin on
Dames: We're cleaning up corruption in the ranks
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames yesterday contended that law enforcement agencies were “cleaning up” their ranks in the wake of the recent arrests, arraignments and convictions of several prison officers for various offences in recent weeks.S
Contract with landfill manager 'before year's end'
ENVIRONMENT Minister Romauld Ferreira is eying a “before year’s end” timeline for the completion of the New Providence Sanitary Landfill’s investment and management contract between the government and the selected bidder.The minister told The Tribune
EDITORIAL: Changing mindsets to give us our pride back
Nassau is dirty. Except in rare meticulously maintained areas like Baha Mar Boulevard, the lack of respect for surroundings hits us smack in the face at nearly every turn. Litter-strewn sidewalks. Overgrown vacant lots dotted with abandoned vehicles. Old fridges and used mattresses tossed in bushes. Random snipe signage in the ground, hand-scrawled cardboard signs begging for business nailed to trees.
Four shillings and a bottle of rum
Those Disney people have come into Eleuthera the way the Bay Street Boys used to come in at election time in the bad old days.
You can make difference to lives of the blind
THE Bahamas Alliance for the Blind and Visually Impaired participants met in Rawson Square yesterday to participate in a demonstration of the “white cane” walk to highlight blindness awareness month.Before the demonstration, Minister of Social Servic
Pail accused of stealing $150,000 in car scam
TWO middle-aged men were arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with stealing more than $150,000 in cash from two women as payment for vehicles that were never delivered. Maurice Sullivan, 51, and 40-year-old Farris Neely, aka Kevin Rol
'It's not the end of the world. When people hear cancer, they think it's a death sentence - it's not'
THE LAST thing 40-year-old Georgina Sturrup expected to hear during a doctor’s visit to regulate her heavy menstrual cycle was that she may have cervical cancer.However, despite the initial terrifying diagnosis and aggressiveness of her condition, Ge
BUSINESS BITES: Trump may have won a battle with Kavanaugh appointment but could end up losing the war
At long last, Judge Brett Kavanaugh has moved up the final notch in the US judicial hierarchy to become an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, from obscurity through tears, rage and notoriety to uneasy success. In the rancorous confirmation debate, all but two senators voted along strict party lines.
If at first you don't succeed . . .
WHO WOULD have thought, her very first clothing design turned out to be an epic failure.For Myrlande Julien, it took years to learn a craft taught by her former tailor father, her fascination with fashion growing with every piece created.“After reali
In Honour Of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month
Nurse Carlotta Klass was honoured for being a pioneer in breastfeeding advocacy at a special awards luncheon this weekend as National Breastfeeding week 2018 wrapped up.Mrs. Klass is now retired from nursing but remains as the chaplain at Princess Ma
Inner wheel gears up for a night of fun
AN evening of fun, entertainment, shopping and pampering all the while raising funds for breast cancer is what organisers of the Pretty in Pink Party are offering attendees.October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Inner Wheel Club of East Nas
Too expensive to join the gym? That's just a cop out
We have all heard the saying: “the best investment you can make is in yourself”. Oddly enough, that normally is put in the context of education and personal and professional development. Still, I don’t quite understand why people have a hard time in
Judo world juniors to hit the mat at Atlantis
The International Judo Federation’s World Junior Championships is here.
Adrian Curry 11th overall in 100m at the Youth Olympics
SPRINTER Adrian Curry finished 11th overall in the 100 metres after the completion of stage two yesterday at the Youth Olympics.
Kai Jones commits to the University of Texas Longhorns
THE much-anticipated recruiting process for Kai Jones has come to an end and the Bahamian prep superstar basketball player has committed to the University of Texas.
THE PRESS BOX – MLB: Both championship series ‘could go down to the wire’
WELL, seeing how my Dallas Cowboys totally dismantled the number one defence in the NFL, in the process of humbling the cocky Jacksonville Jaguars 40-7 this past Sunday, I will give “Dumb and Dumber” - Cowboys HC Jason Garrett and OC Scott Linehan - a break this week.
UB hosts anti-doping seminar for student-athletes
UNIVERSITY Athletics, in conjunction with the Bahamas Anti-Doping Commission (BADC), hosted an anti-doping seminar for student-athletes at the Michael Eldon Complex on October 11.
Chips are down for Atlantis over $60k casino loss
A 29-year Atlantis veteran has recovered his termination pay after the Court of Appeal determined he was not guilty of “gross negligence” over the loss of $60,000 in casino chips.Acting appeal justice Sir Michael Barnett, in a unanimous verdict, rule
Crawfish season 'turning out to be the worst ever'
BAHAMIAN fishermen remain “extremely concerned” over potential clashes with Dominican poachers, while lamenting that the crawfish season to-date is “turning out to be the worst season ever”.Keith Carroll, the Bahamas Commercial Fishers Alliance’s (BC
PM's Disney project justification 'scary'
Previous development plans for Lighthouse Point are “not the right measuring stick to determine” if Disney’s project should be approved, the Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) chief believes.Eric Carey, its executive director, told Tribune Business that
Senior accountant to gain lifetime award
Senior accountant, Philip Stubbs, pictured, will be presented with the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award at the financial services industry’s upcoming November 2 honours ceremony.This award recognises individuals who have reached the pinnacle of their
Bahamas takes STEPs for a strong presence
Almost 30 Bahamian delegates attended the annual Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Latin America conference, which was held in Mexico City from October 4-5.STEP is the global professional association for specialists in family inheritan
Labour chief eyes work permits cap
The Government’s top labour official yesterday said it is examining whether to cap the number of work permits that can be issued to any one person as part of a strategy to crack down on abuses.John Pinder, pictured, director of labour, said his depar
Monday, October 15
10152018 EDITION
Monday, 15th October, 2018.
INSIGHT: All we've got to do is think BIG and be BRAVE
Bahamians need a “come to Jesus moment” on national development. Those who advocate employment opportunities at more risk of destroying thousands in the future, amounts to a deal with the devil At the same time, environmentalists must understand that people have to live, and they can’t eat sand.
INSIGHT: A fair process? I don’t think so. Just a Disney roadshow with the government playing dumb
Three days. That’s how old I was when I first became a part of Eleuthera, after my mum and I were discharged from PMH. I was raised on Eleuthera until the early 1980s when, like so many Eleutheran families, the financial and educational realities forced my family to move to Nassau. I was lucky with scholarships and received a graduate degree with a focus on economics. I returned home to Eleuthera to get married and we take our children there at every possible opportunity.
Sands unveils $5m upgrade to hospital A&E
REDEVELOPMENT of emergency services in New Providence are underway, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands, who confirmed $5m in upgrades to the Accident and Emergency Department at Princess Margaret Hospital had begun.
Sunwing's 'madness' airlift contract doesn't deliver
MINISTER of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson has assured the government is addressing the question of airlift for Grand Bahama, after airline Sunwing announced plans to scrap its summer airlift initiative.He also said the government’s discussion
100 Jamz celebrates in style
100 Jamz celebrated its 25th anniversary in style on Friday with a Celebration Block Party outside of Radio House on School Lane.
Migrants’ birth rate cause of concern
THE birth rate of immigrants living in The Bahamas is just one phenomenon driving the current overhaul of immigration laws, according to Minister of Immigration Brent Symonette, who suggested the potential number of people entitled to apply for citizenship stood to eclipse the current population.
SHOOTOUT AT SEA: Dominican ‘poachers’ held after exchanging fire with RBDF vessel
DOMINICAN poachers engaged the Royal Bahamas Defence Force in a shoot-out on the high seas before more than 100 of them were arrested after escaping into Cuban waters.
Bahamas first – but now we ARE sending help to Haiti
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has spoken to Haiti President Jovenel Moïse informing him The Bahamas would offer whatever support it could to the island nation in the aftermath of a deadly earthquake.
EDITORIAL: Another log thrown on to the Middle East fire
Early this month, a 59-year-old Saudi Arabian journalist walked into the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, presumably to pick up documentary evidence of the dissolution of his previous marriage. Jamal Khashoggi was planning to marry again and friends said the normally sombre Khashoggi was uncharacteristically ebullient.
Too many questions to answer
BASED on Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ comments to Crooked Islanders about Pineridge MP Frederick McAlpine wanting Grand Bahamians to suffer, it is safe to assume that there’s a disconnect between the two.
Curry to compete for Bahamas' first medal today at Youth Olympics
SPRINTER Adrian Curry will have a chance to compete for the Bahamas’ first medal today at the third Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina.On Friday in his heat of the men’s 100 metres, Curry posted a third place finish in a time of 11.03 sec
Lucius making name for himself in Arizona Fall League
LUCIUS Fox continues to have an immediate impact during his stint in the Arizona Fall League.Fox finished 2-5 with one home run, three RBI, one stolen base and two runs scored for his Peoria Javelinas in a 10-9 loss to the Mesa Solar Sox.Fox led the
Antigua and Barbuda hands Bahamas ‘good home licking’
Highlighted by a hat trick from English National League player Myles Weston, Antigua and Barbuda handed the Bahamas a “good home licking” in an impressive 6-0 victory in the battle of two winless teams in the second round of the Concacaf Nations League qualifying tournament.
William 'Knucklehead' Johnson Cross Country Championships 'a great event'
THE light showers of rain made the course at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s Driving Range a little more intriguing for the competitors in the Silver Lightning Track Club’s second annual William ‘Knucklehead’ Johnson Cross Country Championships on Satu
IAAF World Relays goes to Japan
BAHAMAS Amateur Athletics Association president Rosamunde Carey said while it’s disappointing that the Bahamas won’t be hosting the continuation of the International Amateur Athletics Federation’s World Relays, she’s excited to hear that Yokohama, Ja
'Haiti must deal with children of migrants, not Bahamas'
THE lack of clarity over the entitlement to Haitian citizenship for second and third generation children born in the country is an issue for the Haitian government, not The Bahamas, according to Immigration minister Brent Symonette.Mr Symonette maint
Disney rival mulling Judicial Review suit
Disney’s Lighthouse Point rival says it may mount a Judicial Review-style legal challenge over the lack of proper consultation should the Government approve the cruise line’s $400m project.Shaun Ingraham, the One Eleuthera Foundation’s (OEF) chief ex
Press club to honour journalists
THE Bahamas Press Club will hold its annual media awards honouring contributions to the journalism and media profession in the country on November 10.The fourth annual black tie event will convene under the theme “Celebrating 45 years of Bahamian Med
'60 more staff needed for port department'
A MANPOWER audit revealed that the Port Department, currently home to 110 workers, needs 60 to 70 more people to effectively carry out a mandate that includes ensuring commercial vessels are properly registered and inspected, acting Port Controller R
Minnis: We must not look like banana republic
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has insisted he would not present the country as a “banana republic” on the international stage as he defended the size of his delegation at the recent United Nations summit.He used the phrase during remarks at a town
No environmental impact studies for plans
THE two groups vying for the acquisition and development of Lighthouse Point in Eleuthera have not yet carried out a full environmental impact assessment for the proposed projects.Development regulations mandate that any project, similar to those bei
One Eleuthera bid ‘a last minute public relations move’
A GROUP opposing the One Eleuthera Foundation’s (OEF) acquisition of Lighthouse Point has dismissed the organisation’s latest pitch for the property as “last minute public relation move” riddled with “grave concerns”.
Transformer explodes at shopping centre
POLICE fire services yesterday confirmed that a blown transformer resulted in a minor blaze at the Sea Grape Shopping Centre over the weekend.Fire Services director, Chief Superintendent Walter Evans told The Tribune that operations at several stores
Marijuana found in car
A Department of Corrections officer was taken into custody on Friday after four packages of marijuana were found in a car in which he was travelling.Police said the officer was arrested around 7.30pm during an operation in the area of Crooked Island
INSIGHT: Time for the PM to stop following Trump’s playbook
In recent weeks American media outlets exhaustively covered the US senate confirmation hearing of Judge Brett Kavanaugh. Allegations of sexual assault that took place more than 30 years ago came to the forefront and led to mass protests throughout the hearing, as many people believe he is not fitting for the office of the US Supreme Court Justice.
WORLD VIEW: Strongman-ism in the House of the Americas
In one year and eight months’ time the present holder of the Office of Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States (OAS) will end his current term. Judging from his recent utterances, Luis Almagro, might not offer himself for a second term although he has not said so specifically.
GAIN AN EDGE: From intern to mentor in seven short years
Seven years ago, Krista Newbold began a journey to help students become college-ready. Little did she know that during the process, she would also become a student, learning invaluable lessons that would shape the way she teaches and connects with her students.
No amnesia problems here
Someone should inform former FNM turned radical PLP supporter Ivoine Ingraham that the Bahamian people, collectively speaking, are not suffering from amnesia. The memory of the maladministration of the previous Christie PLP government is still fresh in the minds of the Bahamian people.
Why the Point might struggle to entertain us all
Can the Minister of Health confirm that we have an epidemic of Foot in mouth? PM at Point topping off…this project will add to the culture of our city!
Strachan becomes season leading receiver
WITH his latest performance, Mike Strachan became the season leading receiver in the Mountain East Conference.Strachan caught seven receptions for 166 yards and one touchdown in his Charleston Cougars 35-20 loss to the Findlay Oilers on Saturday.He e
Sunwing deal 'madness' put all costs on taxpayer
Sunwing’s financial demands were yesterday branded “madness” by a Cabinet minister, who accused it of failing to deliver and forcing all costs on to the Bahamian taxpayer.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune Business tha
'Significant' Bahamian cruise port ownership
The Government is seeking “significant Bahamian ownership” in Nassau’s new cruise port operator, which will have “a 25-year concession” to manage, develop and maintain the facility.Bidders have until Friday, December 7, to submit their offers after t
Disney rival's impact 'like night and day'
Disney’s Lighthouse Point rival says the difference between their respective projects’ economic impact is “like night and day”, despite push back from the cruise line’s supporters.Members of the Lighthouse Point Partners consortium told Tribune Busin
Bahamas won't see 'major upturn' over anti-crime regime
Global standard-setters are unlikely to grant The Bahamas “much improvement” despite major efforts to improve its anti-financial crime and terror financing regime, a local regulator has warned.Charles Littrell, the Central Bank’s inspector of banks a
Sponge industry revival in full execution mode
Efforts to revitalise the Bahamian sponging industry are moving into the full implementation phase through an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) sponsored project.“We have planted seeds in most of the islands where sponging happens, and equipped s
Health Minister to address Exuma's Business Outlook
The Minister of Health will be the keynote speaker at this Thursday’s Exuma Business Outlook conference, which will be held under the theme, Creating a World Class Exuma.Joining Duane Sands, pictured, and Pedro Rolle, the Exuma Chamber of Commerce’s
Bahamas will fight 'discrimination' on financial regulation
THE Bahamas will fight against “discrimination” if higher financial regulatory standards are imposed on it compared to other countries, the Attorney General has vowed.Carl Bethel QC, addressing the Association of International Banks and Trust Compani
'Tough decisions' ahead over ring fencing cease
The Bahamas has some “tough decisions” to make within the next few months on the financial services industry’s future, a former Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) chairman is arguing.Michael Paton, pictured, a Lennox Paton attorney and partner,
Sunday, October 14
Flights grounded on Sunday morning after A/C issues
FLIGHTS in and out of Lynden Pindling International Airport were grounded Sunday after air traffic controllers were forced out of their tower by a malfunctioning air conditioning unit.
Friday, October 12
Bahamas beaten 6-0 by Antigua and Barbuda
The Bahamas suffered their second consecutive defeat in the CONCACAF Nations League qualifying tournament when they were beaten 6-0 by Antigua and Barbuda Friday night at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium.
Alliance marks 10th annual Sight Awareness Month
THE Bahamas Alliance for the Blind and Visually Impaired marked its 10th annual sight awareness month at the Mall at Marathon yesterday.
Two charged with causing damage
TWO men were charged in the Freeport Magistrate's Court this week with causing damage. Joshua Garvey, 19, of West End, and Sheen Major appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson in Court Two.
Govt signs memorandum of cooperation with Georgia State University
THE Bahamas government has signed a memorandum of coöperation with Georgia State University that will facilitate expanded collaboration between the institution and the Bahamas.
Call for govt to move with 'all convenient speed' to appoint chief justice
BAHAMAS Bar Association President Kahlil Parker has called on the government to move with “all convenient speed” in appointing a new substantive chief justice, claiming that it isn’t right for the third branch of government to be “headless indefinitely”.
Govt 'can't support training 65 UWI physicians'
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands has suggested the government will not be able to support training for some 65 first year medical students enrolled at the University of the West Indies this year.
Coalition proposes $23m Lighthouse Point development
A COALITION of environmental organisations and local developers have proposed a phased development for the highly sought after Lighthouse Point property valued at more than $23 million.
10122018 EDITION
Friday, 12th October, 2018.
'You can help my cancer battle'
SIDDINA Henfield is seeking the public’s help to raise funds to help in her fight against breast cancer. In May 2018, the 35-year-old was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer.Ms Henfield, pictured, has had a lumpectomy and a double mastectomy. Sh
Former Tribune editor in TV probe of Oakes murder
A NEW TV documentary about the Oakes murder is due for release this autumn.Among those featured is John Marquis, former managing editor of The Tribune, whose book Blood and Fire threw new light on the 75-year-old mystery when it was published 13 year
Social services worker released after night in jail
A SENIOR officer at the Department of Social Services was released from custody yesterday after spending the night in jail for failing to honour a court order to produce two children the government agency took from their mother without a court order.
A COMIC'S VIEW: What about that VAT, Dionisio?
We as a people love to laugh, sometimes a good laugh is needed for us to take a step back examine the situation at hand without taking ourselves too seriously. (Attention Bahamian politicians from all parties)
The Pointe: We are ready to entertain you
OFFICIALS celebrated the opening of The Pointe’s entertainment complex during a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday, an event that marked the partial completion of the second phase of a project designed to revitalise downtown Nassau.
Judges order retrial in McCartney killing
THE Court of Appeal has ordered a retrial for the man convicted of killing prominent businessman Kurt McCartney while robbing him of his Hummer SUV five years ago.
The ‘fix is in’ on Lighthouse Point project
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Fred Mitchell yesterday said it appeared as if the “fix is in” on Lighthouse Point.
Sunwing scraps GB air schedule
Grand Bahama’s struggling tourism industry was yesterday forced to confront another “significant loss” of 30,000 annual visitors after Sunwing pulled the plug on its summer airlift initiative.
Severance offers for Lucayan staff imminent
The Grand Lucayan’s workforce will likely be cut by 50 percent through a voluntary separation (VSEP) exercise to launch around month’s end, the resort’s chairman revealed yesterday.
Fyre Festival creator jailed for six years
NEW YORK (AP) — The creator of the Fyre Festival, a highly publicised and famously failed music bash in the Bahamas, was ordered Thursday to spend six years in prison by a judge who called him a "serial fraudster."
Activist disappointed at lack of environment consideration
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ declaration that his government’s decision on Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera, would not be swayed by environmental arguments for or against a project there, was yesterday labelled “disappointing” by ReEarth president Sam
Bain Jr selected for 2018 Class ofthe Howard University Hall of Fame
ARNOLD F Bain Jr, a Bahamian who had a stellar track and field career at Howard University in the 1960s, has been selected for inclusion into “the 2018 Class of the Howard University Hall of Fame as a member of the 1968/1969 track and field team.”Bai
Fixer says he made cash payment in college hoops scheme
NEW YORK (AP) — A government witness at a college basketball corruption trial testified yesterday that he made a secret $40,000 payment to the inner circle of a North Carolina State recruit through an assistant coach at the school.Testifying in feder
THE FINISH LINE - BAAA elections: Whoever wins, let's 'work for the common good'
SO it’s shaping up to be a battle between two incumbents as the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations gets ready for its election of officers. So far, Rosamunde Carey has logged her intentions of pursuing her second term in office as the firs
The future is now for Grand Bahama technology summit
THE second Grand Bahama Technology Summit is slated for November 14-16 in Freeport when worldwide technology giant Cisco Systems will return as one of the key partners of the event. At a press conference at the Pelican Bay Resort on Wednesday, Minist
‘It’s time to end victim shaming’
SENATOR Dr Mildred Hall-Watson yesterday called for an end to victim shaming and for more equality for young women while delivering an address in the Senate.
PETER YOUNG: Bahamas’ contribution to the struggle against apartheid
Press reports of remarks by the Prime Minister in New York last month in praise of the Nassau Accord ought to stimulate renewed interest in the role played by The Bahamas in the eventual ending of apartheid some 25 years ago. This agreement, which called for sanctions against South Africa and demanded it should dismantle apartheid and negotiate with the country’s black majority, was the outcome of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Nassau in 1985 attended by The Queen.
$48m in projects for GB
IRAM Lewis, parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Works, has given an update on major capital works projects totaling some $48m that are underway on Grand Bahama.He reported that officials have decided to expand the scope of work at the $4.8m Sm
Public domain chief defends survey
PUBLIC Domain president M’wale Rahming yesterday defended the organisation’s most recent survey against critiques the poll commissioned by Disney Cruise Lines was biased. On Monday, Public Domain released a survey which found that more than 60 perce
EDITORIAL: The climate clock clock is ticking even louder
THE release earlier this week of a new landmark report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) makes grim and gloomy reading. This United Nations body has now declared time is running out to avert disaster precipitated by climate change unless drastic action is taken to phase out fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions.
Proud to be a descendant of Eleuthera
Please allow me space in your newspaper to share my thoughts on the Lighthouse Point proposed development by Disney Cruise Line.
Polls paint different stories
Sam Duncombe needs to understand The Tribune Poll probably is mostly Nassau-Freeport residents, done on-line whilst The Domain Poll was targeted across all islands.
We must beware the cunning spider
According to the town hall meeting televised from the Green Castle Primary School in Eleuthera on Wednesday, many Eleutherans decked in pro-Disney Cruise Lines t-shirts, made it clear that they wanted to hear no opposition to Disney’s proposal to turn their God-given uniquely beautiful island into a playground for Disney’s cruise passengers.
$260,000 drug stash found in bushes
MORE than $200,000 worth of dangerous drugs were discovered by Bahamian law enforcement officials in bushes in a Freeport subdivision, but no arrest was made, Grand Bahama police reported. According to reports, nine sacks containing packages of susp
Results: Financial Bowling League
THE top scorer in the Financial Bowling League competition on Wednesday night at Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Center was Sonith Lockhart of Rubis Oil Stars with a 624 high three game set. The runner-up was Tyrone Knowles of Leno Corpora
'Lonnie' Greene reflects on his career
ROLANDO ‘Lonnie’ Greene is grateful to have been afforded the opportunity to move from one head coaching job in college track and field to another.In his transition from Purdue University to the University of Kentucky, Greene intends to continue to s
Sports Magazine pays tribute to the late Sir Durward Knowles
THE Sports Magazine, the Bahamas’ only complete sports publication, has just released a commemorative issue paying tribute to the late Sir Durward Knowles on the anniversary of his 100th birthday which is November 2. Sir Durward was the first Olympic
Coach: 'We are looking forward to a good fight'
After losing 3-0 in their opening game of the CONCACAF Nations League qualifying tournament to St Lucia last month, Antigua and Barbuda is in town, hoping to take their frustration out on the Bahamas.The Bahamas, coming off a 4-0 loss to Belize last
Youth Olympics: Track athletes don't fare so well on day 1
DAY one of the track and field competition at the third Youth Olympic Games didn’t turn out the way the Bahamian athletes expected in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Shaun Miller, the first to taste competition yesterday, had to settle for ninth place in t
Freeport airlift problems 'can't hold us over barrel'
A Grand Lucayan board member yesterday called for The Bahamas to create its own airlift for Freeport, adding: “We can’t let anybody hold us over a barrel.”Carey Leonard, pictured, the former Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) in-house attorney, told
Eleuthera targeting 'trifecta partnership' over Disney project
The Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce’s president yesterday called for “a much bigger partnership” between community, government and developer to maximise the Disney project’s benefits.Thomas Sands, speaking after last night’s Town Meeting on the propose
WTO to impact 20% of economy
THE Government will forego $40m in revenue under its first World Trade Organisation (WTO) offer, its chief negotiator suggesting that accession will impact just 20 percent of the economy.Zhivargo Laing, pictured, a former minister of state for financ
IAN FERGUSON: Why becoming "flat"is actually beneficial
A company’s structure goes a long way towards its success or failure. Some businesses prefer a “tall” organisational structure in which there are multiple layers of management - from top executives down to low-level managers and employees. Others ben
Non-profit foundation holds annual meeting
One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF), the non-profit that is offering a rival proposal to Disney’s plans for Lighthouse Point, held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 29.The meeting updated members on OEF’s work and its strategic development pla
Small Business Centre eyes month's end for first funding
THE Small Business Development Centre’s (SBDC) executive director yesterday said she expects to have the first set of entrepreneurial business plans submitted for funding by month’s end.Davinia Blair, pictured, told Tribune Business she was “amazed”
Electric car charging key to Freeport's 'smart city'
Freeport is moving to become a “smart city” through its utilities supplier’s $15m renewable energy investments, including electrical car charging stations that will be rolled out in early 2019.Delano Arthur, of the Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC),
Thursday, October 11
10112018 EDITION
Friday, 11th October, 2018.
Evicted mother and daughter fined after returning to former home
A 50-year-old woman and her daughter were yesterday fined $50 by a magistrate for illegally entering their home almost two weeks after being evicted by the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation.Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans ordered both Michelle and Deshanne
'Residents back plan for Lighthouse Point'
DISNEY Cruise Lines has already “won out” in its bid to gain the support of residents in Eleuthera, according to representatives from the Community Support Group (CSG).The organisation, whose members include the wife of Central and South Eleuthera MP
PLP: We were voted out before we could regulate water sports
THE Christie administration drafted amendments to laws governing water sport activities in the Bahamas but was voted from office before tabling the amendments in the House of Assembly.
‘Please, I pray you forgive me’
ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force marine Christin Reckley is a free woman after paying a $20,000 fine as her punishment for hitting and killing two people in her uninsured car in the Marathon area last month.
Minnis deals blow to Disney critics
THE argument that Disney’s proposed Lighthouse Point project could damage the environment of the 700-acre peninsula in South Eleuthera will not sway the government as it weighs approving the project, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said during a town hall meeting on the island last night.
Journal’s publisher in smear campaign
A SUPREME Court judge has ruled media boss Wendell Jones was involved in a smear campaign against Lyford Cay billionaire Louis Bacon, pointing to a cache of email correspondence between Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard and the Bahama Journal publisher.
If Haiti needs aid, churches will help
BAHAMAS Christian Council President Bishop Delton Fernander says the body plans to offer aid to Haiti as that nation now looks to begin restoration following a magnitude 5.9 earthquake.
NAD's $125m debt refinance a 'win-win'
Nassau’s airport operator is exploring a $125-$130m debt refinancing that could produce “a win-win for everybody”, a Cabinet minister revealed yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune Business that the move was des
Save Lighthouse Point for us all
I wish to refer to The Tribune of 18 September and to the letter by my friend Joe Darville entitled, “Lighthouse Point must be saved”. I fully concur with the contents of the letter.
Widowed and homeless - now community helps Earlene rebuild
A MONTH after losing her husband, widow Earlene Stubbs and her family were homeless when their home in Seagrape, Eight Mile Rock, was destroyed by Hurricane Matthew. Now a community of individuals has banded together and is rallying behind her by sp
Bahamians face up to hurricane as it batters Florida
AS Hurricane Michael battered the Florida Panhandle yesterday, some Bahamian students studying in Florida evacuated affected areas, while others bunkered down through what Florida governor Rick Scott has described as the worst storm to hit the area i
Event highlights mental health issues
THE Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association yesterday held a symposium highlighting World Mental Health Day and promoting awareness of mental health issues.
Minnis is hypocritical over Haiti, says St Fleur
IN a stinging condemnation of the government, Rights Bahamas President Stephanie St Fleur branded Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ suggestion the country would not offer aid to Haiti in the aftermath of an earthquake over the weekend as “hypocritical
Teenager accused of attempted robbery
AN 18-year-old man was charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday with attempted armed robbery and causing grievous harm.Jerounto Kymo Rolle, of Frobisher Drive, Freeport, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson.It is alleg
Three accused over ammunition
THREE people were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court this week with possession of ammunition, while two of them were also charged with possession of dangerous drugs.Sandra Burkhart, 60, of Erickson Drive, Jessica Wallace-Whitfield, 29, of Ca
We need a new sense of freedom
“FREEDOM.” That is what the island of Eleuthera represents, indeed what its name means—from the ancient Greek word Eleutheria.
Silver Lightning Track Club to honour 'Knucklehead'
FOR the second consecutive year, the Silver Lightning Track Club will honour the country’s oldest national track record holder when the William ‘Knucklehead’ Johnson Cross Country Championships takes place Saturday at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s Dr
Arizona Fall League: Chisholm, Fox win on opening day
LUCIUS Fox and Jazz Chisholm continue their 2018 season in the Arizona Fall League and their respective clubs took wins on opening day yesterday.Fox hit leadoff for the Peoria Javelinas and finished 2-5, with two stolen bases and two runs scored in a
Too many questions
WHY is the public library downtown closed at nine in the morning? To my knowledge everything is supposed to open at 9am downtown.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Questions for us all over the response to Haiti quake
What follows is not a soliloquy in print about whether Prime Minister Dr The Rt Hon Hubert A Minnis did the right or wrong thing when he pronounced “Bahamas First”, signalling no help for Haiti in the wake of an earthquake that took lives, destroyed buildings, left people homeless last weekend. Much has already been written about that.
Deandre Ayton named in NCAA corruption trial
At the federal trial into NCAA corruption, Phoenix Suns centre Deandre Ayton was named as one of several current or former players to receive improper benefits.According to Dan Wetzel of Yahoo Sports, Adidas AAU coach and consultant, TJ Gassnola, wh
Youth Olympics: Bastian 23rd overall in 200m breast
IZAAK Bastian continued to carry the flag for Team Bahamas at the Summer Youth Olympic Games with competition in his signature event yesterday.Bastian finished seventh in heat three of the men’s 200m breaststroke in 2:22.37 seconds at the third editi
BNT: $10m costs make Albany-type deals imperative
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) yesterday said the $10m annual operating costs for this nation’s national parks meant it had no choice but to seek private capital backing.
Minister: FNM 'better managers of economy'
Business confidence is growing because the Free National Movement (FNM) is viewed as “better managers of the economy and the Government’s finances”, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune
Checkers to create 40 jobs with fifth location
A well-known Bahamian restaurant chain yesterday said it is investing $3-$4m to create up to 40 jobs at its “futuristic” fifth location, saying: “We have to keep up with the trends.”
BOB: Renewed confidence will ‘wane’ if no plan
Bank of The Bahamas was yesterday urged to release a detailed revival strategy at its upcoming shareholders’ meeting otherwise confidence created by its return to profitability will “wane”.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Don't compress image quality by format choice
Compression plays a vitally important role in many imaging systems by reducing the amount of data needed to store and/or transmit image data. While many different methods exist to perform image compression, perhaps the most well-known is the baseline
Bahamas Realty expands to west New Providence
Bahamas Realty yesterday unveiled its expansion through a new office in western New Providence that will open on November 1.The new office, named Bahamas Realty West, will target the luxury properties and communities that populate that part of the is
Govt taking 'significant steps' on tech hub
THE Government has taken “significant steps” towards making its “technology hub” ambitions a reality, a Cabinet minister said yesterday in unveiling the second Grand Bahama Technology Summit.Senator Kwasi Thompson, minister of state for Grand Bahama,
Wednesday, October 10
event highlights mental health issues
THE Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association yesterday held a symposium highlighting World Mental Health Day and promoting awareness of mental health issues. Dr Wendy Fernander, president of the Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association, stressed the importance o
Ex-officer jailed after hiding drugs in his socks
A FORMER corrections officer was sentenced to three months in prison yesterday after admitting to trying to smuggle drugs concealed in his socks into the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services late last week. Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola
ALICIA WALLACE: And still we dream – of a proper bus system
Safe, reliable public transportation is not often a national discussion. We do, however, talk about it among ourselves, especially if we depend on it to any degree. Those who use public transportation regularly are both well aware of the challenges of the system (if we can call it a system) and skilled in making it work anyway.
Sick - Video of shark dragged to shore
A VIDEO posted to Facebook on the weekend depicting the catching of a shark has been condemned by environmentalists.
‘Haiti doesn’t need our aid’
IMMIGRATION Minister Brent Symonette agrees aid does not need to be offered to Haiti in the wake of Saturday’s earthquake, noting the most recent natural disaster did not rise to level of devastation left behind by a similar incident to that country in 2010.
Simpson Penn loses four more inmates
A SECOND group of juvenile inmates in as many months escaped from the Simpson Penn Centre for Boys on Friday, Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell revealed yesterday, shedding light this time on the need for procedural changes at the facility.
‘How can we trust Disney’s paid poll?’
REEARTH President Sam Duncombe has condemned a recent Public Domain survey which found that more than 60 percent of Bahamians said they “very much” or “somewhat” support Disney Cruise Lines’ proposal for Lighthouse Point, calling those results “magically skewed”.
Taranique - victim of outdated laws: US Congresswoman calls on Bahamas and Caricom to modernise
A US Congresswoman yesterday called on the Bahamas government to modernise “antiquated” immigration laws that she claims disenfranchises communities and disadvantages future generations.
Car blaze 'won't affect work of govt'
DESPITE extensive fire damage to four government vehicles by an arsonist over the weekend, Labour Minister Dion Foulkes said work will not be affected.Price control officials who inspect retail stores used the vehicles to ensure price regulations com
Roy Colebrook earns his master’s degree in Sports Management
ROY Colebrook, one of the Bahamas Olympic Committee vice presidents, finds himself in a unique position. He’s just one of three Bahamians to have earned his master’s degree in sports management.
Facebook wants people to invite its cameras into their homes
Facebook is launching the first electronic device to bear its brand, a screen and camera-equipped gadget intended to make video calls easier and more intuitive.But it’s unclear if people will open their homes to an internet-connected camera sold by a
GDP growth slash's 'pleasant surprise'
Businessmen were yesterday “pleasantly surprised” that the IMF did not cut The Bahamas’ GDP growth forecast more deeply, some having feared a full percentage point slash in VAT’s wake.Michael Maura, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce’s chairman, told Tr
Tour reveals progress at Princess Margaret Hospital
MANY Bahamians do not need to be told how imperfect the Princess Margaret Hospital is, its many issues having been blared from headlines during much of the past two years. To scratch the surface, wait times at the hospital could last hours; the air-c
University: Students must prove national identity
THE University of the Bahamas yesterday said it requires all applicants to present proof of nationality, residency and academic qualifications when applying for enrolment. The institution was responding to claims raised by Rights Bahamas over its wr
SpaceX satellite launch lights up night sky, social media
When SpaceX launched a rocket carrying an Argentine Earth-observation satellite from California’s Central Coast, both the night sky and social media lit up.People as far away as San Francisco, Sacramento, Phoenix and Reno, Nevada, posted photos of th
Newbold plays down in-party tensions
PRESS secretary Anthony Newbold yesterday said he was unaware of any “frosty tensions” between Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and Pineridge MP Frederick McAlpine in the wake of Dr Minnis’ accusation that the backbench MP wants the people of Grand Ba
Haitian man accused of raping minor and overstaying in country
A Haitian man who was discovered with no legal status was charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court not only with overstaying his time in the country, but also with a more serious offence of raping a minor. Felicos Joseph, 52, of Cap-Haitien, Haiti,
Google brings camera twists, bigger screens to Pixel phones
Google’s new Pixel phones mirror an industry trend toward lusher, bigger screens and add twists on the camera for better pictures. The third generation of Pixel phones unveiled yesterday at an event in New York features screens that span from one ed
EDITORIAL: Pence talks tough for his boss on all-things China
WHILE major developments like Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation to the US Supreme Court and a new North American trade pact dominated the American news last week, several significant officials spoke publicly at the same time to offer their informed views on the globally significant issue of the evolving US-China relationship. The Trump administration helped to focus further attention on China when Vice President Pence delivered a major address on the subject to the conservative Hudson Institute.
Selection of heroes 'too political'
I am sad that the criteria used to select our so-called heroes was political. The accolades bestowed on some were self imposed and therefore dilutes the value of the intent, as I understand it to be.
False pretences
SOTIC…CTO conference PI…always a big event but…
Bank teller who stole from A D Hanna must pay $9,000 a year
A FORMER Bank of the Bahamas teller has admitted to stealing over $50,000 from former Governor General A D Hanna over a six-month period, and must pay over $9,000 a year until the debt is settled.Cameron Rolle Jr, as part of a plea agreement, was ord
Patients can look forward to new air conditioning
THE Princess Margaret Hospital will receive a new air conditioning system early next year, press secretary Anthony Newbold announced yesterday.
'Some senior doctors making less than juniors'
CONSULTANT Physician Staff Association President Dr Locklsey Munroe says without an industrial agreement, some senior doctors in the public healthcare system make less money than their junior counterparts. HIs comment to The Tribune came days after
It's all political window dressing
EDITOR, The Tribune Have a serious accident with loss of life then Government wakes up oh only for that moment and time for a lot of talk and little else.
We need to be proactive
Why is our Government system totally reactive rather than proactive? Acting after the fact and discovering what was supposed to have been in place was not!
PM 'has shown empathy after disasters in region'
PRESS Secretary Anthony Newbold yesterday defended Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ response to the Haitian earthquake, saying the nation’s leader has always shown empathy to Caribbean nations affected by natural disasters. However, Mr Newbold said
Press Club speaks out in support of broadcaster
THE Bahamas Press Club released a statement yesterday crying “shame” on Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest for his recent criticism of a local journalist from the floor of Parliament, saying the time is “long past” for journalists to be dictated t
Stubbs earns pro card
In making the adjustment in training with her coach/husband Glen Stubbs to produce a “complete package,” Grand Bahamian Tammy Stubbs returned to Canada and became the latest Bahamian bodybuilder to receive her professional card.
Buddy Hield scores 22 in Kings’ win, Ayton cans 18 for Suns
BOTH Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton led their respective teams in scoring Monday night wins as the NBA preseason continued.
Bastian finishes 8th in 50m free heat, doesn’t advance
IZAAK Bastian returned to the pool yesterday to compete in heat seven of the men’s 50m freestyle at the third Summer Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Cabinet Aces down RBDF Mariners in the BGDBA playoffs
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Mariners saw their season come to an end in their playoff game against the Cabinet Aces in Bahamas Government Departmental Basketball Association league action last week Friday.
Last Dance: Buttons comes on board for the final fight of Meacher Major’s career
BUTTONS Bridal and Formal Wear became the latest corporate sponsor to come on board for the “Last Dance” as pro boxer Meacher Major prepares for the final fight of his career.
Bahamas Baseball Association holds its annual general meeting
THE Bahamas Baseball Association (BBA) held its first Annual General Meeting and Congress since its unification with baseball leagues scattered across the Bahamas.
CLICO clients told: 'Keep faith' for another payout
The Government is working on a fourth CLICO (Bahamas) payout to come as early as next month, with a well-known pastor yesterday urging the insolvent insurer’s clients: “Keep the faith.”Bishop Simeon Hall, himself a former CLICO (Bahamas) annuity hold
'More proactive': BISX in pledge on trading limits
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) yesterday pledged to become “more proactive” in stimulating the market for specific stocks by expanding their trading “bands”.Keith Davies, pictured, BISX’s chief executive, told Tribune Business t
BOB gains $56.7m Treasury Bill boost
Troubled Bank of The Bahamas (BOB) has received a further $56.7m boost from the Government in the form of Treasury Bills, as it recorded its first full-year of profitability since 2012.The BISX-listed institution’s unaudited financial statements for
PMH fee increases are 'not so simple'
A Cabinet minister yesterday admitted that the plan to implement up to 500 potential fee increases at the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) was “not as simple as it may seem”.Dr Duane Sands, minister of health, told Tribune Business that the Governmen
Hotel union 'expeditiously' moves on industrial deals
The hotel union Union is moving “expeditiously” in its bid to conclude negotiations on a number of agreements before year’s end, its president said yesterday.Darren Woods, who assumed the Bahamas Hotel, Catering and Allied Workers Union (BHCAWU) lead
Bahamas 'STEPs' up with strong message
The Bahamas was well represented by both the Government and private sector at a major regional trust and estate planning conference held in Mexico City.The country’s delegation to the annual STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) Latin Amer
URCA in southern family island tour
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has expanded its consumer education and outreach to the southern Family Islands with visits to Acklins, Crooked Island and Long Cay.Town Hall meetings were held in Acklins and Crooked Island t
BFSB unveils its award nominees
The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) will hold the 2018 Financial Services Industry Excellence Awards on Friday, November 2, at Baha Mar’s Grand Hyatt resort.Started in 200, the Awards recognise the importance of human capital to The Bahamas’
Payment provider touts licensing first
An electronic payment solutions provider yesterday said it had become the first entity licensed under new Central Bank of The Bahamas regulations that took effect last July.Island Pay said its payment service provider license was issued after it comp
BAMSI partners with Western Air
The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) has partnered with Western Air to drive community and economic empowerment initiatives with a focus on education.Dr. Raveenia Roberts-Hanna, BAMSI’s executive director, said the two organis
Tuesday, October 9
10092018 EDITION
Tuesday, 9th October, 2018.
FACE TO FACE: Banding together in the battle against breast cancer
This summer as Anita Rolle was deciding what she wanted to do for her birthday, it hit her. Why celebrate my birthday alone when there are so many other cancer survivors like me with a new lease on life? Just a few months later, “Anita’s Celebration for a Cause” was born. Anita realised there were countless others in The Bahamas who needed support and encouragement as they are either battling or beat cancer and they all needed each other.
Insurers 'uncertain' over hospital debts
THE Bahamas Insurance Association says it is “uncertain at this time” if private insurers owe revenue to the Public Hospitals Authority due to the PHA’s inadequate billing system. Health Minister Dr Duane Sands has said the PHA delivers as much as $4
UPDATED: Arson suspected in government vehicles blaze
ARSON is suspected in the case of the four government vehicles that caught fire outside a Carmichael Road government building on Saturday night.
Heroes who put Bahamas first
THE recipients of this year’s National Honours all have one thing in common, they put self aside for the sake of country, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday.
High alert – for Haitians fleeing earthquake
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday he is greatly “concerned” Saturday’s earthquake in Haiti could trigger an influx of undocumented migrants, including dangerous criminals who may wreak “havoc” in the country.
Taranique – so glad to be in America
SICK teen Taranique Thurston is slated to see a US doctor today after obtaining an emergency medical visa with the assistance of a South Florida congresswoman and a local lawyer.
How to care for elderly relatives
Geriatric Hospital symposium to address caregiver stress and provide tips
HAVING to care for older relatives can be stressful and confusing, especially for caregivers who do not know how to deal with loved ones facing issues relating to physical and mental infirmities.It can take an emotional and physical toll on family me
This October, celebrate the achievements of the visually impaired
The Bahamas Alliance for the Blind and Visually Impaired (BABVI) is currently observing Blindness Awareness Month under the theme: “Make Provisions to Preserve Your Vision”. BABVI’s month of activities started on September 30 and will continue until
Mortgage chief: 'Doing nothing not an option'
The Bahamas Mortgage Corporation’s (BMC) chairman says “doing nothing is not an option” with the struggling lender having just five years to escape hitting a $110m debt mountain.Patrick Ward told Tribune Business he felt there was “sufficient time to
Multiple shootings leave one dead, many injured
A YOUNG child was one of five people injured in a shooting incident in Montel Heights on Saturday. This incident was one of multiple shootings that occurred over the weekend, including the death of a young man on Friday in Nassau Village. According t
Govt seeks to limit construction in shanty towns
THE government is seeking a Supreme Court order to restrain shanty town residents and occupiers in New Providence from building and/or modifying any structures ahead of a judicial review of its plans to eradicate those communities.The government, whi
Students in anti-discrimination session
MINISTER of Social Services and Community Development Frankie Campbell led a mock session of CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women) last Monday, inviting high schoolers and college students to learn about T
Survey finds support for Disney at Lighthouse Point
A RECENT Public Domain survey has found that more than 30 percent of Bahamians support Disney Cruise Lines’ proposal for creating a cruise destination at Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera.Of the 994 households the market research firm surveyed across the c
A call for critical thinking as we move our tourism industry forward
Experts estimate that by the year 2028, a mere decade away, tourism will directly and indirectly contribute over 60 percent of the Bahamian gross domestic product (GDP). That being the case, we simply cannot afford to make material and ongoing mistak
A real BPL enquiry?
BP&L - do I believe there is any enquiry going on? No. The enquiry anyway should be on the Shell America deal and BP&L not complying with URCA.
Five arrests over drug, gun and ammo discovery
FIVE people were arrested for possession of dangerous drugs, illegal firearms and ammunition in Grand Bahama, a senior police official reported.Asst Supt Terecita Pinder reported that the arrests were made between 5pm Friday and 2am on on Saturday du
Family and friends pay their respects to Earl Thompson
FAMILY, friends, and members of Parliament gathered at St Francis Xavier Cathedral last Friday to mourn the death of Earl Thompson Sr, former vice-chairman of the Free National Movement, and a founding member of the Knights of Columbus in The Bahamas
EDITORIAL: No money for doctors - or anything else - until we wake up to reality
When doctors at Princess Margaret Hospital threatened to withhold services because of poor pay and, in some instances, deplorable working conditions, the public was aghast. How, they asked, could a doctor turn his or her back on a patient in need of urgent care or ongoing attention?
Do we owe Nygard a thank you?
Recently, there has been some not so pleasant occurrences as it relates to a well-known resident of The Bahamas and indeed Lyford Cay, Peter Nygard.
Disabled parking
EDITOR, The Tribunes1 Re: Parking in a disabled bay - You’ll be fined.
Charged over a seat belt
A few months ago, my niece was charged for not using her seat belt while she was in the back seat of a moving vehicle. The driver of the car was also charged with allowing a passenger to be in her moving car who was not using their seat belt.
THE PRESS BOX: 'My beloved Cowboys are an inconsistent, mediocre squad at best'
COWBOYS fans here in the 242 must come to grips with reality. Our beloved Cowboys are an inconsistent, mediocre squad at best. Since it comes with the territory, head coach Jason Garrett is on the hot seat, and deservedly so. The team is now 2-3 o
'Who's the boss?'
Two events to help women on their way to the top
What does it really take to be a successful businesswoman? And how do you tackle the ‘good ole boys club’ on your path to success? These are questions that will be answered honestly and unapologetically by 17 women at a special conference later this
Bahamians show up in great numbers to 'Paint da Streets Pink'
Despite a minor delay due to inclement weather, this year’s “Paint Da Streets Pink” was an overwhelming success.The event’s organisers, members of the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial, said they are immensely grateful for the support the
Team Bahamas opens competition at Youth Olympics
THE Bahamas’ seven-member team opened competition this week at the third Summer Youth Olympic Games in Buenos, Argentina.Izaak Bastian swam the first of his four events on Sunday and finished eighth in heat two of the 100m Breaststroke.His time of 1:
Learn to belly dance, celebrate African womanhood
For those who may nurture a secret desire to study the art of belly dance, you no longer have to travel across oceans to learn it; you can do it right here at home.The new Belly Dance Bahamas company is teaching locals how to elegantly shimmy and jig
Students grill Social Services Minister ahead of UN meeting on women's rights
When Minister of Social Services and Community Development Frankie Campbell heads to Geneva, Switzerland, this month with a delegation, he will be addressing a special UN Committee designed to ensure that countries are up to standard with their treat
Saunders catches first touchdown reception of his NCAA career
IT was a career milestone for Mavin Saunders while Chris Ferguson and the Cincinnati Bearcats became bowl eligible with their sixth straight win.Saunders caught the first touchdown reception of his NCAA career in his Kansas Jayhawks’ 38-22 loss to th
Progress beyond scale
Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.
UNDEFEATED: Heavyweight boxer Amron 'Sandman' Sands improves to 7-0 in pro career
Bahamian heavyweight boxer Amron ‘Sandman’ Sands continued his undefeated streak and improved to 7-0 on his professional career. Sands defeated American journeyman Francois Russell via second round TKO on the undercard of Friday Night Brawl, hosted
Archer to run for BAAA president
BAAA Secretary General Drumeco Archer officially announced his intentions to run for president of the organisation. Archer said his platform is aimed at bridging the gap between the administration and the athletes to ensure a cohesive system, integr
UB Mingoes defeat Warriors 2-1 in the BFA preseason
THE UB Mingoes soccer team - thanks to some great defence - defeated the Warriors 2-1 to remain undefeated in the Bahamas Football Association preseason on Sunday.The Mingoes scored twice in the match at the Roscow AL Davies Field - once from Elcott
Use Disney to 'rewrite our old cruise model'
The “largest investment in South Eleuthera for generations” could give The Bahamas a chance to “rewrite an outdated 20 year-old cruise model”, a prominent businessman believes.Thomas Sands, emphasising that he was speaking as a private citizen, and n
Storm insurance eyed for fisheries, farming sectors
A Cabinet minister says he will hold talks with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) on providing “sector-wide” hurricane insurance for Bahamian farmers and fishermen.Michael Pintard, minister of agriculture and fisheries, who i
Underfunded public pensions bigger than national economy
The underfunding of The Bahamas’ public sector pensions “poses a serious long-term challenge” because these liabilities are collectively larger than this nation’s economy.The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), in latest Caribbean Quarterly Bullet
Privy Council vindicates Bahamasair personnel
Bahamasair’s maintenance staff were yesterday vindicated by the highest court in the Bahamian judicial system, which ruled they were not to blame for an April 20, 2007, plane crash.The London-based Privy Council, in reinstating the original Supreme C
Bahamian airlines 'hold on for dear life'
A Bahamian aviation executive has warned that taxes threaten to “stagnate” this nation’s aviation sector, with private domestic carriers “holding on for dear life”.Captain Randy Butler, Sky Bahamas chief executive, told Tribune Business: “We have to
Bahamasair eyeing Caribbean alliance
Bahamasair is interested in “tying into” the regional Caribsky airline alliance as a way to establish improved connectivity with the Caribbean.During the Sky Is The Limit workshop at the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), held last wee
Monday, October 8
Death toll in Haiti earthquake rises to 15; 333 injured
PORT-DE-PAIX, Haiti (AP) — The death toll from a 5.9 earthquake that hit Haiti over the weekend rose to 15 people with 333 injured, authorities said Monday, as thousands of people slept outdoors fearing aftershocks would topple their cracked homes.
Department of Corrections officer arrested for drug possession
An officer from the Bahamas Department of Corrections is in custody after he was arrested for drug possession on Friday.
Sunday, October 7
Strong aftershock rattles north Haiti day after deadly quake
PORT-DE-PAIX, Haiti (AP) — A magnitude 5.2 aftershock struck Haiti on Sunday, even as survivors of the previous day's temblor were sifting through the rubble of their cinderblock homes. The death toll stood at 12, with fears it could rise.
Haiti quake kills at least 11, injures others
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Emergency teams worked to provide relief in Haiti on Sunday after a magnitude 5.9 earthquake killed at least 11 people and left several injured.
Saturday, October 6
Young child among injured in Montel Heights shooting
Several people, including a young child, were shot in an incident in Montel Heights on Saturday night.
Friday, October 5
Doctors vote in favour of obtaining strike certificate
MORE than seventy senior doctors in the public healthcare system voted on Friday to obtain a strike certificate, a move that illustrates that union members are willing to withdraw services if the Public Hospitals Authority does not meet their requests.
Man killed, woman injured in Nassau Village shooting
ONE MAN is dead and a woman injured following a double shooting off Taylor Street, Nassau Village, Friday afternoon.
Three arrested in connection with break-ins
POLICE have arrested three men suspected of carrying out a string of house break-ins in both eastern and western New Providence.
Court dismisses bid to contest 40-year sentence
THE Court of Appeal has dismissed a man’s bid to contest his 40-year sentence for murdering a webshop employee who was in the process of collecting deposit bags four years ago.
10052018 EDITION
Friday, 5th October, 2018.
Court acquits man given 15 years for role in armed robbery
THE Court of Appeal has acquitted a man previously sentenced to 15 years behind bars for the role he played in the fatal armed robbery of a Cash for Gold employee in Grand Bahama five years ago.
McAlpine: I would not wish to see any island suffer
PINERIDGE MP Rev Frederick McAlpine refutes recent remarks made by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis about him wanting Grand Bahamians to suffer, saying he only wants to see the island's economy progress.
Lyford Cay Foundation grants $829,500 worth of scholarships to Bahamian students
THIS year the Lyford Cay Foundation granted 28 scholarships, valued at about $829,500, to Bahamian students seeking higher education abroad.
One Eleuthera 'has not made a major offer for Lighthouse Point'
THE One Eleuthera Foundation has not made a substantial offer to buy Lighthouse Point since 2009, according to the group’s CEO Shaun Ingraham.In an interview with The Tribune yesterday, Mr Ingraham said while a second offer never really materialised,
Can you help grandmother to fight cancer?
STEPHANIE Sakr, a mother-of-three and grandmother-of-two, is seeking the public’s help to raise funds to help in her fight against breast cancer. In October 2017, the 58-year-old widow was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. Mrs Sakr’s child
Conflicting reports over MP’s debts
FOX Hill MP Shonel Ferguson and the vice president of her investment company have given conflicting information concerning the settlement of the more than $70,000 it is claimed their company owes in real property taxes concerning the maintenance and operation of a building it assumed responsibility for some 13 years ago, court documents allege.
Top two called up for govt cannabis committee
THE government has chosen two co-chairmen for its cannabis committee, which Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said he hopes will be fully constituted within the next week or two.
Deadly drivers who claimed five lives
A female Royal Bahamas Defence Force marine must spend a week in custody before she is sentenced for hitting and killing two pedestrians with her uninsured car in the Marathon area last month, a magistrate ordered yesterday.
Doctors press on with strike ballot
DESPITE “amicable” talks with Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, who agreed to address their concerns, the Consultant Physicians Staff Association will conduct a strike vote today.
Nygard launches lawsuit over home seizure
PETER Nygard is seeking damages from the government, claiming in writs filed in the Supreme Court this week that his constitutional rights have been breached and his property, Nygard Cay, has been wrongfully seized by the country’s provost marshal.
EDITORIAL: Why powers must be separated
TO many foreign observers, the ugly spectacle of the current US Senate nomination hearings for the Supreme Court being shamelessly politicised yet again makes a mockery of America’s democracy.
Beware of special interests
The following is an open letter to the Hon Dionisio D’Aguilar, Minister of Tourism on the Lighthouse Point Beach matter.
Sands should go
While it is becoming an increasingly trite and depressing exercise to judge which of the members of this government is least competent, Duane Sands continues to exert every effort to claim the prize.
Jesus stands at the door!
With all the social and economic dilemmas that are going on in the Bahamas it’s imperative to consider a clarion call.We profess to be a Christian nation, but our actions emphatically suggest otherwise. A robust population of over 390,000 and our cou
Marijuana stash found
DRUG Enforcement Unit officers discovered a quantity dangerous drugs hidden in bushes in the Hawksbill Subdivision, a senior police official reported yesterday.Assistant Supt Terecita Pinder reported that DEU officers, acting on information, went to
A COMIC'S VIEW: Our Prime Minister, King of the Selfies
OUR Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis craftily, and without providing details, on the actual cost of his recent trip to the United Nations’ 73rd General Assembly, did manage to get some awesome “selfies”. Minnis did, however, table in Parliament a lis
Minnis: McAlpine wants GB to suffer
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis criticised Pineridge MP Frederick McAlpine for the latter’s criticism of the government’s purchase of the Grand Lucayan resort, accusing Mr McAlpine of wanting the island to “suffer”.His comments came during a town hal
Ayanna leads people to God with new 'So Incredible' album
An intimate setting which facilitated an “unbridled worship experience” was what Ayanna Clarke envisioned for her album release concert at the Golden Gates World Outreach Ministries last Friday.And her vision became reality.Those who attended the eve
Sands initiative to target gambling addiction
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands is hoping a gambling addiction symposium to be held at the end of this month will provide assistance and “some remedy” to individuals and households affected by compulsive gambling. On Wednesday, Dr Sands said reports
BPL tender issue
Absolutely no apology! I return to the BP&L RFP/tender issue as there has been no resolution to correct malpractice and breach of the Electricity Act 2015. Your Editorial position believing the opinion of BP&L is wrong - you have not spoken to URCA who controls the practice of BP&L who are not lords unto themselves.
Seeking to strengthen fisheries in GB
MINISTER of Agriculture and Marine Resources Michael Pintard revealed that steps are being taken to secure a new vessel to provide a stronger presence for the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources in East Grand Bahama. He said additional fish
100,000 reasons to support race event
FOR the first time in its history, Sunshine Insurance Race Weekend (SIRW) has doubled its annual donation, giving away $100,000 to four cancer charities. During the official launch of the Susan G Komen Bahamas Race for the Cure® 5K event on Monday,
Ayton leads Suns to first preseason win
Another game, another dominant performance from top overall pick Deandre Ayton as he led the Suns to their first win of the 2018 NBA preseason.Ayton finished with 21 points, 15 rebounds, three blocked shots and three assists in the Suns’ 91-86 win ov
Young recognised as one of Blue Jays' rising stars
CHAVEZ Young’s standout season made such an impact on the Toronto Blue Jays organisation that the front office continues to recognise him as one of its rising stars.While the media focuses on highly touted prospects Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero
Ricardo Clarke's latest single goes global
Congratulations are in order for inspirational singer Ricardo Clarke, whose hit song “Least Expect” has broken into the international market by making it’s debut on Carib TV.Ricardo told Tribune Religion that the single addressed with the surprise re
A dream is a goal with a deadline
In Habakkuk 2:2 the Lord tells the prophet, “Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.” The key to successful goal-setting is revealed in this scripture.First, the vision must be written down. When you keep a v
Men's national soccer team named for Nations League
THE Bahamas men’s national soccer team was named yesterday by the Bahamas Football Association to compete in a Nations League match against Antigua and Barbuda on October 12.“This squad changed slightly based on performances in the previous game in B
Meditation - Walls come tumbling down
As I watched the video of the imploding of the Crystal Palace Hotel so many thoughts came to mind. Let me share some of them with you:I. Walls that need to come down1. The walls that exist in our homes between the generations, between siblings and sp
Religious happenings around town
• Panel Discussion on “The Next Step: Marriage”The Young Adults Ministry of Christ Community Church is excited to host another panel discussion on topic “The Next Step: Marriage” and is extending an invitation to members of the general public.It wil
St James gears up for Heroes Day 13th annual Grill Fest
This National Heroes Day all roads will lead to the historic village of Adelaide where the Anglican Church Men of St James Parish will be hosting their 13th Annual Father R F Anthony Roberts’ King of the Grill Fest and Competition. The event will be
Gospel singer expands her reach
Psalmist and gospel singer Allison Rolle is continuing to expand her AMR Music Ministry by going on tours and sharing her most recent single, “Abide with Me”, with the public.A few months ago, she released a CD with three singles, but intends to rele
Lucayan chair slams 'nasty, torturous' close
The Grand Lucayan’s chairman yesterday accused Hutchison Whampoa of displaying “a lot of bad faith” over the $65m deal’s closing, branding negotiations as “nasty and torturous”.Michael Scott, chairman of Lucayan Renewal Holdings, the Government-owned
Marinas enjoy up to 40% rise in boat traffic
BAHAMIAN marina operators have seen as much as a 40 percent increase in business year-over year, their Association’s executive director said yesterday.Basil Smith, speaking for the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM), told Tribune Business: “Things
Govt VAT clarity to unleash $1bn of development
More than $1bn in real estate projects may have been unleashed, and “a serious challenge to home ownership” removed, after the Government clarified that the sector can reclaim VAT “inputs”.Developers yesterday told Tribune Business they had been give
Bahamians pay price of ‘double BPL whammy’
Bahamian businesses and households are paying the price of “a double whammy” caused by the recent fires at Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) Clifton Pier plant, it was revealed yesterday.
Landfill contract is 'blueprint for future'
The contract for the New Providence landfill’s management will establish “a blueprint for the future” that can be applied throughout The Bahamas, a Cabinet minister has revealed.Romauld Ferreira, pictured, minister of the environment and housing, tol
Flag carrier's chief backs standardised regulations
Bahamasair’s top executive yesterday said a “commonised” regulatory structure for airlines operating within the Caribbean could increase passenger traffic and intra-region connections.Tracey Cooper, a panellist during a session on aviation at the St
Bahamasair chief: Taxes exceed tickets revenue
TAXES and fees account for up to 50 percent of airline ticket costs in the Caribbean, it was revealed yesterday, with Bahamasair’s top executive admitting these levies sometimes exceeded airline ticket revenue.Tracy Cooper, pictured, the national fla
IAN FERGUSON: The economic benefit from being authentic
Every weekend, the Ministry of Tourism’s Authentically Bahamian Marketplace features hand-made Bahamian craft and souvenir products. Visitors and locals alike have an opportunity to experience indigenous food, craft, music and other aspects of Bahami
Web shops partner to fight gaming addiction
Bahamian web shops have teamed with the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre and Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) to host a free all-day gambling addiction seminar at month’s end.The symposium is scheduled for the Church of God of Prophecy, Joe Farringto
Tourism ministry targets south Florida Hispanics
The Ministry of Tourism’s marketing team targeted south Florida’s Hispanic community through its sponsorship of the La Mano Hispana 2018 Art Gallery Opening Night in Miami.The Bahamas’ sponsorship of the event resulted from its partnership with the C
American Airlines grows Chicago-Nassau route
American Airlines will offer year-round service between Chicago and Nassau starting from summer 2019, expanding the route from a seasonal winter service.The move strengthens the carrier’s commitment to The Bahamas, and rounds out its current roster o
Thursday, October 4
10042018 EDITION
Thursday, 4th October, 2018.
Web shops still in talks over sliding-scale tax
Lawyers for web shop operators are reportedly still “in dialogue” with Attorney General Carl Bethel over aspects of the Gaming House Operator Regulations and the sliding-scale tax structure the regulations address.The discussions were yesterday discl
Exuma victim's ordeal drags on after boat blaze
THE young American dancer who became a double amputee as a result of the 4C’s Adventures boat explosion is recovering in Massachusetts and receiving support from survivors of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Stefanie Schaffer, 22, of Vermont, was a
Minnis: I'll take a backbencher on every international trip
WHILE still not providing any details as to the cost of his recent trip to the United Nations’ 73rd General Assembly, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis tabled in Parliament a list of 17 officials, including his wife, Patricia, who made the trip to New
Money for nothing: Mortgage Corp borrowers – half won’t pay debt
AS he made an impassioned plea for Bahamians to take care of their financial obligations, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest said the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation is “insolvent” if it were not for the government’s guarantee of its debt, with 47 percent of its loans in arrears.
‘Residents buying homes without paying a dollar back’
THERE are “reckless” Bahamas Mortgage Corporation clients who have not paid one dollar toward home loans, Housing Minister Romauld Ferreira revealed, adding that in one instance a delinquency is 15 years old, dating back to 2003.
Conch shell attacker found guilty of killing
A Supreme Court jury yesterday convicted a 24-year-old man for beating a 64-year-old man to death with a conch shell three years ago.
MP ‘owes’ $100k in unpaid utilities
FOX Hill MP Shonel Ferguson’s investment company owes over $70,000 in real property taxes, having never paid them since it assumed responsibility for the maintenance and operation of a building in Centreville some 13 years ago, court documents allege.
Minnis (and brother) back Archer’s role
NEWLY-appointed Contractors Registrar Omar Archer has defended himself over concerns about his qualifications for the post, referring to construction experience dating back to his childhood.
Police hunting for man in murder probe
POLICE are searching for an Abaco man who they believe can help with a murder investigation. Police want to speak with Rashad Ashton Fox, 30, of Sandy Point, Abaco. He is about six feet tall, weighs 190lbs and has a dark brown complexion. Anyone with
BCA quiet over Sands claims
THE Bahamas Contractors Association yesterday thanked former president Leonard Sands for his service to the organisation over the past 12 years but stopped short of endorsing unprecedented claims he was forced out of the position by a government appo
Govt waiting for details of UWI students
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday the government is still waiting for the University of the West Indies to provide it with the data of all Bahamian students who enrolled in the medical programme this semester.He said the government needs
Sands' message to PLP: Sit small and shut up
HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday called for members of the Official Opposition to “sit small and shut up” instead of criticising the management of the Public Hospitals Authority’s funds. Dr Sands added the Progressive Liberal Party committed
Check it, catch it - free scans to beat cancer
THE Island Luck Cares Foundation yesterday launched its third annual “Check It, to Catch It” breast cancer screening initiative, with officials expanding the programme to Grand Bahama.“Check It, to Catch It”, according to Island Luck CEO Sebas Bastia
Brinique: Eat wise, stay alive
MISS World Bahamas Brinique Gibson launched her ‘Eat Wise, Exercise, Stay Alive’ campaign competition yesterday at Uriah McPhee Primary School to fight against childhood obesity.There are about 450 students from Claridge Primary, Sade Curtis, Columbu
Texas donors give hundreds of tablets to help schoolchildren
TEXAS philanthropists Carl and Gigi Allen have presented 285 tablets to the Maurice Moore Primary School in Grand Bahama. Thanks to their generous donation, every fourth, fifth and sixth grader at the school will now have access to a wide range of cr
Lighthouse Point and Disney deal
I am an environmental proponent but I am also of the opinion that where there appears to be a conflict between protecting the environment at the expenses of creating sustainable jobs/employment opportunities for real people that the latter should take precedent.
Britain’s Brexit dilemma
UK and the EU - their Brexit, March 2019 is turning out to be the most laughable event in UK political history. UK never really wanted to join the EU - reluctant from the beginning and then only after the EU being an enormous economy force UK saw the advantages and asked to join.
Follow the process
It seems some people wish to avoid due legal process in this issue of Lighthouse Point-Eleuthera.
DIANE PHILLIPS: That eureka moment in Exuma
At 3:30 yesterday CNN interviewed a man named Jeff Todd about a phenomenon called swimming pigs. Todd lives in his native Canada these days with his wife and twin daughters. He is in his early 30s, a former Nassau Guardian business editor, AP contributor, prolific journalist, author of three books and, of late, a serial Exuma promoter whose fascination is with the swimming pigs.
Bahamas set for CONCACAF Nations League
THE Bahamas’ senior men’s national football team is expected to continue play in the 2019 CONCACAF Nations League next week.The Bahamas will host Antigua and Barbuda on Friday, October 12 at the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium with free admission
Lourawls 'Tum Tum' Nairn Jr's autobiography 'Purpose Driven'
ADD author to the expanding résumé of basketball player Lourawls “Tum Tum” Nairn Jr.The former Michigan State Spartans guard took to social media to announce the completion of his first book - an autobiography entitled “Purpose Driven.”The book detai
'Bonafide Innovators' launch re-election campaign
Incumbent Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ President Rosamunde Carey and her team officially launched their re-election campaign.Led by Carey, the “Bonafide Innovators” list of candidates also includes Carl Oliver (1st Vice President), S
NCAA: Injury concerns could delay Miller's debut with Rebels
INJURY concerns could delay Franco Miller’s debut with the Ole Miss Rebels in his freshman season of NCAA basketball following his recent knee surgery.
Court to Minister: More clarity for labour disputes
The Court of Appeal has urged the Minister of Labour to provide greater clarity when referring trade disputes to the Industrial Tribunal, branding the present process “inadequate”.Acting appeal justice Milton Evans said it was “of fundamental importa
Promoter renews $8m Resorts World pursuit
A beach club promoter yesterday confirmed he is renewing his pursuit of Resorts World Bimini for a minimum $8m in damages, and warned: “I hope they understand we have staying power.”Garrick Edwards and his Therapy Beach Incorporated entity, fresh fro
Oil explorer says Oban, BPL sign of govt backing
A Bahamas-based oil explorer is “entirely focused” on drilling its first exploratory well, while viewing the end of exclusive talks with a “major” industry player as “validation” of its work.The Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC), unveiling its financia
'Double blow' for Exuma operator
AN Exuma water sports operator yesterday revealed it had suffered a “double blow” from the 4C’s boating tragedy as it backed tougher enforcement to combat “rogue” operators.Rebecca Lightbourne, of Exuma Watersports, owned and operated by her family s
New Year's Day goal for vacation rental taxation
THE Government plans to tax the vacation rental business from New Year’s Day 2019, with Airbnb having agreed to collect and remit levies on properties it markets to the Treasury.Dionisio D’Aguilar, pictured (top), minister of tourism and aviation, to
Mortgage Corp 'bends overbackward' for troubled loans
The Bahamas Mortgage Corporation (BMC) “bends over backwards” to work with troubled borrowers, a Cabinet minister said yesterday, adding that it is moving to improve a dire financial position.Romauld Ferreira, minister of the environment and housing,
Compliance officers urged to protect risk, jurisdiction
Bahamian compliance officers were yesterday challenged to minimise financial services industry risk and protecting the jurisdiction’s reputation.Nearly 150 executives were given this charge when they attended the Bahamas Association of Compliance Off
Wednesday, October 3
10032018 EDITION
Wednesday, 3rd October, 2018.
Hunt for missing teen
POLICE are seeking the public’s help in locating a teenager who has been reported missing by family members.
ALICIA WALLACE: Time for a different tune than our brand of one-note tourism
We watched another one bite the dust on Monday, over and over again. It instantly became a where-were-you-when moment. The videos and pictures seem endless and I imagine people return to them to experience the thrill, again, of what was once Crystal Palace crumbling before their eyes. It is not often we see demolitions in The Bahamas, so this was quite the spectacle. As the dust settles, many people are sharing memories of Crystal Palace, from teenage sleepovers to working night shifts. The demolition, as some have said, was the end of an era.
Davis: Health minister must take role seriously
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday the country’s healthcare sector could improve if Health Minister Dr Duane Sands took his role and responsibilities more seriously.Mr Davis made the observation yesterday during the
'Leave people in their homes' call as repossessions begin
FIVE people in Millennium Gardens whose homes were repossessed by the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation last week are being represented by attorney Wayne Munroe who yesterday criticised policies that kick people out of their homes before a new buyer or t
Dunkin' for Boobies raises $9,000
THE fifth annual ‘Dunkin for Boobies’ cancer awareness event was held yesterday and raised over $9,000 from generous motorists and enthusiastic participants who enjoyed contributing to a good cause.
TOTAL RECALL: Exuma tragedy sparks order to inspect all commercial vessels
THE fatal 4C’s Adventures boat accident will now be turned over to the Office of the Attorney General, Transport and Local Government Minister Renward Wells said yesterday, adding a scathing report into the tragedy brings to light the need for government to “tighten up where it is slack”.
Labour Day driver let out on bail
THE man whose truck allegedly mowed through a crowd during the Labour Day Parade and consequently caused the deaths of four women has been granted bail by a Supreme Court judge.
Sands: Driving revenue key to solving crisis
THE lack of available funding at the Princess Margaret Hospital has sparked an ongoing crisis in its Dialysis Unit and officials think the solution to satisfying the deficit is in creating a business centre that centralises payments and fees, according to Health Minister Dr Duane Sands.
Archer right for job? Someone thought so
PRESS Secretary Anthony Newbold said he does not know what makes Omar Archer qualified to be the registrar of the Ministry of Works even as he insisted yesterday the controversial figure must have met the standards of the ministry.
Parking in a disabled bay - you’ll be fined
UNAUTHORISED use of disabled parking spaces will soon result in cash fines as a measure to deter the practise, Social Services Minister Frankie Campbell said yesterday.
NY Mets release Champ Stuart
AFTER his third season at the Double-A level, Champ Stuart was released by the Binghampton Rumble Ponies and the New York Mets organization.
Jazz chosen as top prospect at shortstop for the D-backs
THE postseason accolades continued for Arizona Diamondbacks prospect Jazz Chisholm, when he was named an organisational All-Star.
Robbers injured as victims fight back
TWO armed robbers were seriously injured and left in hospital following a foiled home invasion and attempted robbery at a residence in Freeport.According to police reports, officers were called shortly after 1am Tuesday to a residence on Waterfall Dr
Someone tell govt we're broke
The reality of our fiscal situation still seems to elude those in political office. When I read of the efforts, and expense, of The Bahamas joining the WTO, I wonder who has told the government that we have the money to spend on this fool’s errand.
Davis wants answers over Sands and Osborne posts
THE Minnis administration “must come clean” over the circumstances which led to the resignations of both Leonard Sands and Darnell Osborne, said Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis.Addressing the surprising resignation of Mr Sands f
Security guard: I saw man hit woman twice on head
A Paradise Island-based security guard yesterday testified how he witnessed a male Atlantis employee slam a woman on her head two consecutive times over a parking dispute and said the man would have done so a third time had he not intervened.Antonio
Bus drivers want delay of unified system
THE Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union yesterday requested the government delay the launch of the pilot programme of the unified bus system.The union noted in a statement it considers the current pilot project inadequate and old fashioned and called o
Outcry from students as Bimini teacher relocated
HIGH school students in Bimini protested yesterday over the reported reassignment of a science teacher.Multiple students at the Louise McDonald High School (LMHS) yesterday walked out of their classrooms in protest over a decision by the Ministry of
PLP announces convention to be held next month
THE Progressive Liberal Party will hold its next convention from November 14 to 16.
EDITORIAL: Goodbye, Mr Nygard – 34 Years is Enough
LAST Friday, Deputy Provost Marshal Tommy Sands accompanied by a team of police officers seized the Simms Point/Nygard Cay premises of Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard, ending a nearly two-day standoff that some called unprecedented and shocking. Those who were appalled that Nygard’s staff managed to defy the third highest-ranking security officer of the land for the better part of two days, refusing him entry despite an order from the highest court in The Bahamas, should not have been surprised.
Save The Bahamas
Recently the Deputy Provost Marshall of the Supreme Court was refused entry to the property of Peter Nygard at Simms Point in order to serve a court order to seize the property. After many hours, the court official along with high-ranking police officials were turned away empty handed.
Two accused of immigration offences
A BAHAMIAN man and a Jamaican woman were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court for breach of the Immigration Act and other separate offences including possession of fraudulent Immigration documents.Raphael Miller, 44, of Watergate Apartments, an
Back to where it all began for Commissioner
Police Commissioner Anthony Ferguson took a trip down memory lane last week making an official visit to his Alma Mater LN Coakley High School in his native Exuma. On his arrival at the school, Commissioner Ferguson was welcomed by staff and then tre
Brother and sister accused of overstaying in country
TWO Haitian nationals - a brother and sister – were charged in Grand Bahama with breach of the Immigration Act after they allegedly overstayed their time in the country by almost a year. Bydarck Edouard Mathieu, 23, and Marie Edouard Mathieu, 29, ap
Ayton, Hield face off in preseason thriller
In the first of several matchups this season between the country’s premier basketball talents, Deandre Ayton had the better individual performance in his debut for the Phoenix Suns but Buddy Hield and the Sacramento Kings came away with the win.
UB Mingoes get 3-0 win over Dynamos Football Club in preseason scrimmage
THE UB Mingoes men’s soccer team defeated the Dynamos Football Club 3-0 in a preseason scrimmage Sunday as the Mingoes look to defend their Bahamas Football Association (BFA) championship title.
‘Keen competition’ at annual Paradise Island Open Sr Golf tourney
ON behalf of the Bahamas Golf Federation, Atlantis and the Ocean Club Golf Course recently hosted the annual Paradise Island Open Senior Golf tournament.
Tourism in second loss to former beauty queen
The Ministry of Tourism has suffered a second defeat in its battle with an ex-Bahamian beauty queen-turned-songstress after a US judge dismissed its “breach of contract” counterclaim.Senior judge Nancy Atlas, sitting in the southern Texas federal cou
Water chairman to Davis: ‘Would you operate in red?’
The Water & Sewerage Corporation’s chairman yesterday hit back at the Opposition leader’s criticism of its mass disconnection exercise, asking: “Would he run his business in the red?”
Taxi drivers urge end to plates bar
BAHAMIAN taxi drivers yesterday urged the Government to end the two-decade old moratorium on new plates, with the union’s newly-elected president describing reform as a “daunting task”.Wesley Ferguson, the Bahamas Taxi Cab Union (BTU) chief, told Tri
Central Bank: We're dealing with independence slippage
The Central Bank yesterday said it had already taken action to reverse the slippage in its “independence” cited by a newly-released Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report.The study, titled Nurturing Institutions for a Resilient Caribbean, argue
Ex-BCA chief's concerns over 'political activist'
A former Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president yesterday questioned whether a controversial political activist is “the best candidate” for a key role in regulating construction.Stephen Wrinkle, pictured, told Tribune Business it was unclea
Govt key to poultry production ramp up
An Abaco-based producer yesterday said government “definitely has a role to play” if The Bahamas is to increase its poultry output.Lance Pinder, operations manager at Abaco Big Bird Poultry Farm, told Tribune Business: “I think the biggest thing, lik
BTC celebrates small business in October
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is again celebrating October as Small Business Month in recognition of over 80 percent of its corporate client base.The company kicked-off its month-long series of events on Friday, September 28, during th
Shipyard sends 20 apprentices to BTVI
Twenty Grand Bahama Shipyard apprentices are attending the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) after the company launched its 2018 training initiatives.The apprentices will be taking courses in good housekeeping; incident reporting; saf
Bahamas 'must address' beneficial owner access
The deputy prime minister has reiterated that The Bahamas “must address” access to beneficial ownership information for all corporate entities domiciled in this jurisdiction. KP Turnquest said the Government was looking to the Register of Beneficial
Govt told: 'Get a handle' on vacation rental sector
A Family Island resort operator yesterday urged the Government to “get a handle” on the vacation rental industry and introduce a tax structure to collect the “millions” it is currently forfeiting.Edwin Mulford, a long-time boutique resort operator on
Tuesday, October 2
10022018 EDITION
Tuesday, 2nd October, 2018.
FACE TO FACE: A voice falls silent, one which made us all so proud
It was difficult for me to accept I had to write this edition of Face to Face posthumously. I had every intention of interviewing Audrey Dean-Wright in person. I had already told her as much. I was excited and, when I started writing this column, I let her know that it would be my honour to tell her life story – one so fulfilled I hadn’t even figured out how I would compact it into a single page. But I knew it was necessary, because so many great Bahamians who have contributed so much don’t have their stories told… they are not celebrated enough.
'Stop drinking and texting while driving'
TRANSPORT Minister Renward Wells yesterday said the decision to amend the Road Traffic Act to make it illegal to drive or operate a vehicle while using a cell phone, or with an open alcoholic beverage is related to the “increase” in traffic fatalitie
Thompson confident of Grand Lucayan sale
GRAND Bahama State Minister Senator Kwasi Thompson revealed that there is “high interest” from prospective buyers to purchase the Grand Lucayan resort property in Grand Bahama.
VIDEO: We’re going to need a BIG dustpan
“The end of an era” was how some onlookers described yesterday’s structural demolition of the former Crystal Palace Resort and Casino.
NOT FIT TO SAIL: 4C’s home-built boat never inspected; First mate in disaster was owner’s 12-year-old son
THE Exuma tour company involved in a deadly boat explosion that killed a woman and injured ten others in June broke the law by operating a boat that was neither registered nor ever inspected by the Port Authority, the Bahamas Maritime Authority revealed yesterday.
Water board starts turn-off offensive
THE WATER and Sewerage Corporation yesterday commenced a mass disconnection of delinquent accounts across the country, with thousands expected to be affected.
Save our architectural heritage
Someone at Public Works has no clue what Colonial Heritage in The Bahamas entails. Either Amos Ferguson, former lecturer of History of Architecture I and II at the College of The Bahamas, should run a special interest course for people interested in learning more about historic buildings, etc. before any structure, especially within the city limits, is constructed it should include Dormers, Quoins, Casement Colonial windows, etc. (Doric, Ionic and Corinthian columns, etc.)
Web shop worker shot in armed raid
A WOMAN employee of Chances Games was shot and sent to hospital on Sunday evening following an attempted armed robbery at the establishment in Hunters.According to police reports, two masked men armed with firearms entered the business shortly after
Everyone had a duty on UN trip, says Wells
TRANSPORT and Local Government Minister Renward Wells yesterday defended the size of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ nearly 20-member delegation to the United Nations’ 73rd General Assembly, emphasising that “every Christ soul” that attended had a “
Man accused of series of armed raids
A 20-year-old man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with robbing nine people of more than $50,000 worth of cash and merchandise in the last six months.Edward Colebrooke, also known as “EJ”, stood before Chief Magistrate Joyann F
'My car was a different colour' says suspect
A 23-year-old man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday over allegations that he was the person a prison officer shot in the shoulder outside of a bank last week after he had robbed a man of $4,000 cash, which belonged to a fast food chain.
Two years in jail for marijuana
A 21-year-old man was sentenced to two years in prison yesterday after pleading guilty to being found in possession of nearly $300,000 worth of marijuana last week.Kendrick Humes was sentenced by Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain following hi
$600,000 donated to kickstart Junkanoo in Grand Bahama
MORE than $600,000 in seed money was distributed to some 14 Junkanoo groups on Grand Bahama by the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Lanisha Rolle.The presentation of funds was held at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday where Mrs Rolle go
Raise age of consent
If there’s one law in The Bahamas in dire need of a complete overhaul, it is the law regarding the age of consent for sexual intercourse. Under the Bahamian jurisdiction, adolescents aged 16 are legally able to consent to participation in sexual activity, even without gaining permission from their guardians. Conversely, the legal age for drinking alcohol and voting is 18. The age of consent law undermines the fiduciary guardianship of Bahamian parents.
Knights strike gold in St Lawrence Invitational Tournament
THE Niagara College Knights, with several Bahamian players on their roster, were back on the floor for the preseason as they prepare to contend in the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association.Van Hutchinson Jr, Kevin Cooper, Stephone Augustine, Livingst
Pioneering natural hair brand comes to the Bahamas
Carol’s Daughter, one of the first beauty brands to focus on natural hair products, has two reasons to celebrate this year: the company turns 25 and it’s just had its official launch here in the Bahamas.The brand was founded by Lisa Price in 1993, wh
All not well at BPL
BP&L - 80MW stand by generator RFP - are we supposed to accept what clearly from the letters published by The Tribune accept that the process was compliant with the norms? There was a serious breach of the Electricity Act 2015 and URCA who is responsible still is pussy footing around not doing what it supposed to do.
Body found after man jumps into canal
GRAND Bahama police are investigating a suspected drowning of a man in a canal on Sunday.ASP Terecita Pinder reported that shortly after 1pm, officers were called to Silver Palm Street where a group of persons had gathered after a man had failed to r
RBDF fit for the challenge
members of the RBDF recently completed their annual physical fitness test.All officers and marines are required to complete a set amount of push-ups, sit-ups, and pull ups, followed by a timed 1.5-mile run, a 300-metre swim, treading water for three
Judo: World juniors set for Atlantis this month
IN approximately two weeks, the international judo community will descend on the Bahamas as the island nation hosts the sport’s elite talent from around the world.A total of 510 judokas, including 295 men and 215 women from five continents and 81 cou
McPhee-McCuin hosts her first official practice as head coach of the rebels
COACH Yolett McPhee-McCuin hosted her first official practice as head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels women’s basketball programme.Ole Miss opens the season with a home exhibition with LeMoyne-Owen on November 2, with the regular season slated to begin
THE PRESS BOX: A CHIP OFF THE OLD BLOCK
IT has been just over two years since Cody Rhodes decided to leave WWE and test himself on a worldwide scene, and there’s no denying that it has been a huge success for him. Son of the legendary “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes, and former WWE Intercon
A focus on psychological well-being of Bahamas' youth
Sandilands observes World Mental Month with several events
This year’s World Mental Health Day, which will be celebrated on October 10, puts the spotlight on young people and how their upbringing and certain resulting stressors can increase the risk of mental issues in adulthood.According to the World Feder
Survivors fighting on
Photo campaign shows life after breast cancer
Each day this month, one unique woman will be celebrated for her strength and her courage in the face of breast cancer. This celebration takes on the form of a photo campaign by local photographer Daythan Newton called “Turn Up the Pink”.The 31 women
Munnings and Warhawks hope to contend in Sun Belt
When Travis Munnings returned to the University of Louisiana-Munroe Warhawks for his senior season, head coach Keith Richard knew the roster would rely heavily on the Grand Bahama native if they hope to contend in the Sun Belt.The Warhawks opened pra
Close to 1,000 expected to 'Walk for the Cure' this Saturday
For the seventh consecutive year, all runners, walkers and health enthusiasts are being invited to participate in the “Walk For the Cure”.Hosted by CIBC FirstCaribbean, the event takes place this Saturday, not only in New Providence, but also in Gran
Bahamas needs 'more teeth' on vehicle titles
The Bahamas needs an “ironclad” vehicle title system with “more teeth” to better protect consumers from unscrupulous second-hand auto sellers, major dealers urged yesterday.Fred Albury, the Bahamas Motor Dealers Association’s (BMDA) president, and ot
Bahamas forward bookings up 9.2%
Forward visitor bookings to The Bahamas having increased by 9.2 percent, a top tourism official said yesterday, following a total arrivals increase of 15 per cent.Joy Jibrilu, pictured, the Ministry of Tourism’s director-general, said The Bahamas is
Vacation rental rates rise, but hotels decline
Room rates for Bahamian vacation rentals continue to move in the opposite direction to their hotel industry counterparts, with Airbnb bookings increasing 41 percent year-over-year for August.The Central Bank of The Bahamas’ monthly report for August,
Contractors: Sands not always echoed association's view
A Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) spokesman yesterday said its former president’s views did not necessarily represent those of members, pledging a “conciliatory approach” towards the Government.Drumeco Archer, speaking to Tribune Business in t
Freeport hopeful latest tourism blow 'cushioned'
Grand Bahama was last night hoping that the blow of losing the Grand Celebration for a second consecutive year will be “cushioned” by continued service from its sister cruise ship.Government ministers and senior private sector executives said the Gra
Bahamas meets tax exchange deadlines
The ministry of finance last night said The Bahamas had met the September 30 deadline to begin automatic tax information exchange (AEOI) with some 35 partner jurisdictions.Revealing that the first such exchange with another country had already occurr
Bahamas 'exceeded goals' at major airlift conference
The Bahamas “exceeded our initial goals and expectations” at the 2018 World Routes Conference in Guangzhou, China, the ministry of tourism’s airlift chief believes.“Geographically, The Bahamas is located thousands of miles away from China, but our pr
Monday, October 1
10012018 EDITION
Monday, 1st October, 2018.
INSIGHT: When The Bahamas sailed off to war
On November 11 this year, heads will bow around the globe to mark the centenary of the end of World War One.
VIDEO: Crystal Palace resort and casino demolished
It was the end of an era in Cable Beach this morning as the former Crystal Palace resort and casino was demolished.
Family’s agony year on from missing flight
ONE year after a US couple vanished with their aircraft while en route to Rum Cay for their wedding and honeymoon, their families are still seeking information from anyone who might have any details on what happened to their loved ones.
Minnis to step in on doctors dispute
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he will meet senior doctors in the public healthcare system this week to consider their concerns, hoping to stave off actions that could cripple the healthcare system.
‘Political threats forced me to quit’
The Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday blamed “sinister and unprecedented” political pressure for forcing him to resign to protect the group’s advocacy efforts.
Cruise lines eye bid on Nassau's 'bottom' port
Royal Caribbean’s top executive yesterday confirmed that the industry has discussed submitting a bid to manage a Nassau cruise port that is “sadly among the Caribbean’s bottom”.Michael Bayley, president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean Internat
Truckers are new NPSA champions
Facing elimination in three consecutive games, the Commando Security Truckers played arguably their best softball of the season and came from behind to win the best of seven series for the 2018 New Providence Softball Association title.
Coleby tips off pro career in Belgium, posts double double
DWIGHT Coleby tipped off his pro career in Belgium and made an immediate impact with his new club in his first night on the floor in Belgium’s Pro Basketball League (PBL).
Strachan has 2nd 100-yard game of season
MICHAEL Strachan continues to be the leading receiver for the University of Charleston Cougars and one of the leaders in the Mountain East Conference.
Campbell: Everything in place for unified bus system this year
FORMER Transport and Local Government Minister Frankie Campbell yesterday said plans left in place by his team could culminate in a completed unified bus system this year.Mr Campbell, who now serves as the minister of social services and urban develo
EDITORIAL: A high stakes game with the Supreme Court the prize
WHAT is really at stake in the great political circus now playing in Washington, DC?
Alarm at NIB payout
Kindly permit me to share my views on the disclosure by the Public Service Minister that the government has decided to settle a dispute with the former NIB director in connection with a decision taken by the previous administration to effect his termination
Hurting customers
Surprise surprise! Those of us who saw in the Commercial Enterprises Act a backdoor assault on Bahamianisation have had to wait less than a year to be proved right. It turns out that the FNM’s sanctimonious proclamation of a reduction in labour certificate applications may reflect nothing more than the ability of would-be applicants to use this pernicious legislation to skirt the ordinary process for obtaining a work permit.
INSIGHT: There will be a heavy price to pay if we’re treated like children
IT is no secret that political factions within our country expect a level of loyalty from members of Cabinet in government. Often, when Members of Parliament who express feelings or views that conflict with the executive, the electorate may assume some discord within government. So it is at present within the governing Free National Movement, where it seems there are a few disgruntled backbenchers.
Four in hospital after series of weekend attacks
FOUR men are in hospital in varying conditions following separate incidents over the weekend.In the latest of the four incidents, according to police reports, shortly after 12am yesterday a man was sitting on a bucket in the front of a residence at G
Court seizes Nygard Cay as two-day stand-off ends
NYGARD Cay, the infamous property of Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard, is now in the possession of the Supreme Court.Deputy Provost Marshal Tommy Sands along with a team of police officers seized the premises shortly after 11am on Friday, bringing
Lighthouse Point: PM to hold town hall meetings
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis suggested on Saturday he will hold town hall meetings with residents of Eleuthera to discuss Disney Cruise Line’s proposed development of a destination at Lighthouse Point.The development is being opposed by environmen
PM rejects PLP call for accounts committee move
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis suggested on Saturday his administration will not provide the opposition-led Public Accounts Committee with information it has requested.During a press conference following his trip to New York last week, Dr Minnis sai
'Developed countries should pay for disasters linked to climate change'
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he urged stakeholders of developed countries during meetings in New York last week to establish a fund to aid developing countries who suffer climate change-related natural disasters. Speaking during a press confe
WORLD VIEW: Gay people are citizens too
A REGRESSIVE 19th century law, that is a legacy of British rule, continues to exist in ten of the 12 independent Commonwealth Caribbean states.
INSIGHT: Fat, food, fatigue and brain fog
The 2018 HEALinc Future Health Innovation Summit (www.healincfuturehealthsummit.com) is days away.
Royal Caribbean donates $25,000 to help the hungry
ROYAL Caribbean International yesterday donated $25,000 to the Bahamas Feeding Network to aid in the relief of hunger for hundreds of Bahamians.The donation was made during a feeding event at Mosseff House in Fox Hill, where RCI CEO Michael Bayley an
Police hunt for raiders after series of robberies
POLICE on New Providence are seeking the public’s help with any information that can assist with solving a spate of armed robberies that occurred over the weekend.The latest took place shortly after 10pm on Saturday when employees at a business on Ca
Texas senior Lashann Higgs in leadership role for Longhorns
LASHANN Higgs heads into her senior season in a leadership role for the Texas Longhorns as the programme will be featured in five nationally televised games on the ESPN network.
Contractor chief: Political pressure forced me out
The Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday blamed “sinister and unprecedented” political pressure for forcing him to resign to protect the group’s advocacy efforts.Leonard Sands told Tribune Business that the BCA’s executive boa
Minister 'dumbfounded' by construction chief's claims
A Cabinet minister yesterday said he was “dumbfounded” and “lost for words” over claims the Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president had been forced out by political pressure.Desmond Bannister, minister of works, told Tribune Business that
Royal Caribbean targets 2/3 rise in Bahamas visitors
Royal Caribbean’s top executive yesterday said the cruise line will “bring closer” to 2m visitors to The Bahamas by 2020-2021, marking a two-thirds increase in just two to three years.Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International’s president and chie
Water Corp revenues ‘near double’ in record September
The Water & Sewerage Corporation’s chairman says it closed September on “a high note” by “almost doubling” monthly revenue to $3.6m - with the prospect of much more to come.
Agriculture minister argues policy must be data-driven
A Cabinet minister has underscored the need for “data” to drive government agricultural policy, with stakeholder consultation “as often as possible” critical to this effort.Michael Pintard, pictured, minister of agriculture and marine resources, told
Our infrastructure needs 'beyond fiscal capacity'
The Government yesterday unveiled its promised public-private partnership (PPP) framework, conceding that this nation’s “infrastructure needs are beyond our fiscal capacity”.The ministry of finance, in a statement, said the policy was designed to bet
Fishermen urge: 'Wake up' to long line usage
Fishermen have reiterated their call for the expansion of commercial fishing in The Bahamas, telling this newspaper: “We need to fish our ocean.”Keith Carroll, the Bahamas Commercial Fishers Alliance (BCFA) vice-president, told Tribune Business: “We
