Stories for September 2018

Friday, September 28

Woman robbed outside her Pinewood Gardens home

A WOMAN was robbed Friday when she pulled up to her home on Wild Guava Street, Pinewood Gardens.

Prison officers complete inaugural parole programme

TWENTY prison officers were celebrated Friday after completing an inaugural parole programme supervised by Canadian correctional service experts.

Minister commends E Clement Bethel National Arts Festival winners

TWENTY-nine winners of the 59th Annual E Clement Bethel National Arts Festival on Grand Bahama received their awards on Friday at the Hilton Outten Convention Centre in Freeport.

Nygard contempt sentencing adjourned

THE sentencing of Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard on contempt charges was adjourned on Friday to give his attorneys leave to file a recusal application against Supreme Court Justice Indra Charles.

Court set to block public commentary on Shane Gibson case

SUPREME Court Justice Indra Charles announced on Friday that preparatory steps were underway to bar further public commentary on the ongoing Shane Gibson bribery case.

A COMIC'S VIEW: Looking out for brothers under modification

EVERY neighbourhood, food Store and mall parking lot has them. Fish Fry and Potters Cay Dock may be the factories from whence they came.

UPDATED: Deputy Provost Marshal and police in Nygard Cay

AFTER waiting more than four hours, the Deputy Provost Marshal of the Supreme Court was yesterday denied entry to Nygard Cay as he attempted to execute a court order to seize the property.

Crystal Palace to be demolished on Monday

THE former Crystal Palace resort and casino will be demolished on Monday.

Buyers line up for Grand Lucayan

LUCAYAN Renewal Holdings Limited, the government’s special purpose vehicle given the task of finding a purchaser for the Grand Lucayan, has received “several” expressions of interest from prospective buyers.

Judicial review bid rejected in case against URCA ruling

A SUPREME Court judge has refused Navette Broadcasting’s judicial review application in its case against the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA).

Cargill settlement reached over firing from NIB role

PUBLIC Services Minister Brensil Rolle confirmed yesterday the government reached a settlement with former National Insurance Board Director Algernon Cargill over his firing from NIB under the former Christie administration.

$80,000 drugs found in container

MORE than $80,000 worth of suspected marijuana was discovered in a metal container tied on the bottom of a cargo vessel at the Grand Bahama Shipyard, police reported yesterday.No arrest was made, but police seized 86 pounds of marijuana with an estim

PETER YOUNG: EU standoff as Britain needs a trade deal

WHILE Britain’s departure from the European Union in March next year is fast approaching, Prime Minister Theresa May’s government is still embroiled in negotiations about the nation’s future economic relationship with the bloc after Brexit – a term now firmly in the modern lexicon.

Journey to 'Incredible'

Endings and beginnings

“Tomorrow, tomorrow. I love you tomorrow. You’re only a day away!”Never thought this song would have such a personal meaning for me, but my concert is actually tomorrow.Reaching a goal not only means an end but also a beginning. A goal accomplished m

Doctors may take strike vote next week

SENIOR doctors in the public healthcare system could take a strike vote within the next week, the head of their bargaining institution said yesterday.“We’re going to have an urgent call meeting next week and that strike poll may be called as early as

Credit union opens marketplace branch

DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest this week opened the Grand Bahama Cooperative Credit Union’s newest branch office in the Port Lucaya Marketplace.He said the company’s decision to open a second branch signals not only an expansion for the compan

Grouper protection 'not priority'

ALTHOUGH environmentalists warn against the catching of Atlantic goliath groupers, Agriculture and Marine Resources Minister Michael Pintard has said changing the status of the fish is not currently a “priority”.These remarks come after a viral socia

Island Luck worker accused of stealing $165,000

A 31-year-old Island Luck employee was charged in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday with stealing more than $165,000 from her employer over a four-month period.Christianna Taylor stood before Magistrate Derence Rolle Davis faced with six counts of steal

Meditation – The cross of Christ

The prayers, Scriptures and hymns of the church are rich with the theology of the cross, and its challenges to evoke a response from every believer. Let us consider together what the impact of Holy Cross Day (September 14) can have on each one of us.

Man killed as car hits wall

A MAN was killed in a traffic accident in Long Island on Wednesday afternoon.Chief Superintendent Craig Stubbs told The Tribune yesterday the victim was travelling south on Queen’s Highway, near McKenzie’s.The driver lost control of his blue 2008 Hon

'Exuma has been blessed' - Tourism staff thank God for continued success

Members of the Ministry of Tourism in Exuma recently took time out to share in a worship experience at Ebenezer Union Baptist Church in Rolleville.Emmett Saunders, senior manager of the Exuma Tourism Office was accompanied by staff members Tamika Rol

Burrows, Augustin-Fairell make season debuts in France

THE French Pro A League tipped off the 2018-19 season and both Bahamian players made their season debuts.Jaraun “Kino” Burrows and his Fos-Sue-Mur Provence Byers competed in Pro A for the first time while Jonathan Augustin-Fairell played his first ga

United Faith Ministries seeks to heal the broken

Special Outreach Day set for this Sunday

MEMBERS of the United Faith Ministries International will host its Friends and Family Community Outreach Day this Sunday.Organisers said excitement is building for a much anticipated event, which will take place on the church grounds, Fire Trail Road

Two accused of murders

TWO men were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday, accused of two separate murders.In the first matter, Mark Kemp, 39, of Cox Street, stood before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson Pratt faced with one count of murder concerning a Friday, August

Four face court after guns and ammunition found

POLICE yesterday arraigned four residents of Abaco in Magistrate’s Court on a firearm and ammunition-related charges in two separate cases.In the first matter, Andre Kikivalakis, 44, and Liniska Cornish, 31, appeared before Chief Magistrate Joyann Fe

EDITORIAL: UPHOLDING PUBLIC EDUCATION STANDARDS

CRITICISM of the educational system in this country is never-ending.

The true heroes of the nation

There recently has been much in the press and on radio and TV about Bahamian Heroes.

Ayton makes immediate impact at training camp

DEANDRE Ayton has made an immediate impact on the Phoenix Suns after one official day of training camp.“Today was a hello, it wasn’t that bad,” Ayton said. “It’s a lot of details, they are throwing a lot of stuff at you. Lot of defence. Lot of sets a

Buddy and Kings open training camp with new look, uptempo offence

THE Sacramento Kings opened training camp with a new look, uptempo offence aimed at improving their pace headed into the 2018-19 campaign.That uptempo offence got its first look on day one of camp with the players spending most of their time running

Where are all the projects?

It is now 16-17 months since May 2017 and a change of Government and the sole, only one, project that has been approved is the Wynn West Bay Condo/condo-Hotel project…struggling is the revamp of the Ginn Grand Bahama project on life support it seems.

Decision day looms large for Kai Jones

Decision day looms large for Bahamian prep basketball star Kai Jones as he narrowed his final list of schools this week.Jones announced via social media that he will decide between the Florida State Seminoles, Texas Longhorns and Baylor Bears to dete

Mandela legacy

THE Mandela speech at the UN yesterday... seeing that ZNS News was in full flight, suggesting that Prime Minister Minnis had some special choice or position in this UN event, may I clear the air?

Sandilands choir lifts their voices to give praise

The Sandilands patients choir Worthy of Praise showed appreciation to their supporters with their annual concert at Believers Gospel Chapel under the theme “We’ve come this far through community integration”.Sharon A Williams, former Sandilands Hospi

Financial Bowling League round-up

THE top scorer in Financial Bowling League competition last night was Hulan Hanna of BTC Night Hawks with a 226 high game and a 583 high three game set. Runner-up was Marcharia McDonald of Strike Force with a 202 second high game and a 573 second hig

Anglican church welcomes two young priests

The Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands ordained Deacon Eric Achico Alexander Miller and Deacon Brandon Travis Fernander to the sacred priesthood yesterday at Christ Church Cathedral during the Feast of Lancelot Andrewes.

Calvary Crusade 2018 wants to change lives

This year’s Calvary Crusade will see Bishop Alfred A Owens Jr and co-pastor Dr Suzie Owens of the Greater Mount Calvary Church of America, in addition to international psalmist Johnathan Nelson, bring faith, hope and inspiration to Bahamians during t

BADC: Out-of-competition testing for all athletes

IN order for athletes to become and remain compliant they must make themselves available for out-of-competition testing. All athletes are required to submit whereabouts to the Bahamas Anti-Doping Commission, according to Christopher Thompson, the dop

Excuse me, but can I hitch a ride?

A Bahamian fisherman encountered a pleasant surprise when he discovered a 4ft long lemon shark clenching on the motor of his boat.James Munroe, an Eleutheran resident, was fishing for barracudas off Current Island, Eleuthera when he realised the shar

Poor Bahamians region's hardest hit by fuel hikes

The poorest 40 percent of Bahamian society are among the hardest hit in the Latin American and Caribbean region by any increase in fuel prices, an IDB study has found.The newly-released Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report, which analyses the

Disney 'second best' to Foundation's retain all

An Eleuthera non-profit yesterday argued that Disney’s Lighthouse Point plans are “second best” to its proposal that retains “100 percent of the land and profits for Bahamians”.Shaun Ingraham, the One Eleuthera Foundation’s (OEF) chief executive, tol

'Absolute game changer' if bill properly enforced

The Fiscal Responsibility Bill is “an absolute game changer” for good governance if properly enforced and complied with by the public sector, a leading reform campaigner said yesterday.Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (ORG)

Activist: 'I've not bought fairytale' on Disney plans

An environmental activist yesterday said she had “not bought the fairytale” on Disney’s plans for Lighthouse Point, and urged it to “compromise” by using an existing cruise port.Sam Duncombe, reEarth’s president, told Tribune Business that using the

IAN FERGUSON: Harnessing technology for tourism's advantage

The United Nations’ World Tourism Organisation (WTO) yesterday celebrated World Tourism Day under the theme, Tourism and the Digital Transformation. The Bahamas joined the commemorative event in a bid to create greater awareness of the role that tour

Reformer concern: Accounts Committee loses fiscal bill role

Governance reformers yesterday expressed concerns that revisions to the Fiscal Responsibility Bill could weaken efforts to hold the Government accountable for breaching financial targets.The Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG), which has le

Crystal Palace set for demolition on Monday

Baha Mar’s owner and its contractor yesterday said they had received the necessary government approvals to demolish the former Crystal Palace resort and casino this coming Monday.A statement from Perfect Luck (No 2) Ltd, which is now owned by Hong Ko

Thursday, September 27

09272018 EDITION

Thursday, 27th September, 2018.

Clergyman wants tougher laws to stop gun violence

A local religious leader in Grand Bahama is calling for the passing of more effective and stricter laws in relation to gun violence to solve the country’s “murder crisis”.Apostle Anthony Grant, of Agape Christian Centre in Freeport believes The Baham

Shark bite victim says she’ll be back to The Bahamas

AN American woman bitten by a shark in Abaco on Sunday says she plans to return to The Bahamas in just “a few days” and will go spearfishing again.

Arrests in Abaco after dangerous drugs, firearms, ammunition found

Four people persons were arrested in Abaco after police discovered dangerous drugs, firearms, and ammunition at a residence, police reported on yesterday.

BUT suspends Belinda Wilson for two months

BELINDA Wilson’s membership to the Bahamas Union of Teachers has been suspended for two months, effectively stripping her of the top post. 

WE LOVE YOU DADDY: Final farewell to slain officer

NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said the shooting death of Inspector Carlis Blatch, former aide-de-camp to Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling, should renew the country’s fight against violent crime which has ravaged communities over the past several decades.

Widening the divide across our nation

How long are we going to continue to denigrate each other, destroy people’s character and indulge in the worst sewer type comments. Why? Is there really anything to gain at the end of the day?

PLP demands: Why call trial witness a whistleblower?

ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel’s “whistleblower” characterisation of Jonathan Ash has raised questions about his level of willingness to participate as the key witness in the Crown’s criminal trials against two former Cabinet ministers, Progressive Lib

The FNM's brightest

We have enjoyed, in most cases, parliamentary democracy over the past 55 years with the advent of ministerial government during the 1960s and the emergence of internal self governance and, eventually, independence. Over the years, I have seen countless men and women enter the hallowed halls of parliament filled with zeal and vision. Indeed, they come into parliament roaring like a lion only to leave, involuntarily or voluntary, mewing like a pussy cat.

Truckers stave off elimination

The Commando Security Truckers took the monkey off their back and put the pressure clearly in the faces of the defending champions C&S Hitmen to respond going into game six of their New Providence Softball Association best-of-seven men’s championship series tonight in the Banker’s Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

Jazz Chisholm named D-backs’ Minor League Player of Year

A SEASON of milestones for Jazz Chisholm continued with organisational wide recognition by the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Five years in jail after cocaine find

A SENIOR magistrate yesterday sentenced a 39-year-old Haitian man to five years in prison for his role in the smuggling of $135,000 worth cocaine into the Bahamas last week.Terry Nacius, a farmer from La Tortue, Haiti, stood before stood before Deput

Munroe wants answers on payments made to Ash

A KEY witness in former Labour Minister Shane Gibson’s criminal case told investigators that Jonathan Ash “got all of his payments” from the government. This revelation follows Attorney General Carl Bethel’s confirmation on Tuesday that Mr Ash was st

Homeless drug addict begs for leniency after stealing air conditioning unit

A self-described homeless drug addict yesterday begged a magistrate for leniency after being convicted of shopbreaking and theft after he stole an air-condition unit from the Bahamas Football Association’s Bay Street storage facility.Leroy Bethel app

DIANE PHILLIPS: Why we love to see the Tiger roar again

I first noticed this strange phenomenon when working at the National Enquirer and its sister paper, the now-defunct Weekly World News. We humans are like passengers. When a new celebrity or sports hero appears on the scene we climb onboard, celebrating their talent, commenting as if we were experts on their particular skills. We watch them perform, applaud for them.

BUSINESS BITES: Bahamians become foreign investors while BISX slumbers

Suddenly, Bahamians are becoming more aware of the vast universe of investments percolating in securities markets beyond our shores.

New BABF president Strachan: ‘Boxing is back in the Bahamas'

THE newly formed Bahamas Amateur Boxing Federation launched the first initiative of its new administration, headed by president Vincent Strachan.

Disney: $400m spend to 'better' top location

Disney yesterday said Lighthouse Point will be transformed into its top global cruise destination through a $350-$400m “mutually beneficial” investment for Bahamians and passengers alike.Jeff Vahle, Disney Cruise Line’s president, told Tribune Busine

Govt debt just short of $8bn

The Bahamas’ national debt was just short of the $8bn mark at end-June, although its growth rate slowed significantly in a second quarter known for generating strong economic activity.The Central Bank of The Bahamas’ just-released report for the thre

Water Corp targets ‘half’ of $45m owed in mass disconnect

The Water & Sewerage Corporation yesterday warned it will launch a mass disconnection exercise next week in a bid to collect “nearly half” the $45m owed by deadbeat customers.

Disney feared for brand over project criticism

Disney Cruise Line’s president yesterday admitted it had been “bothered” by inaccurate criticism of its Lighthouse Point plans, which created fears of brand and “reputation” damage. Jeff Vahle, in an interview with Tribune Business, said the “only ac

Crypto balance must combat 'scam artists'

The Bahamas must strike a balance between facilitating initial coin offerings (ICO) and crypto currency exchanges and combating “scam artists”, a top accountant urged yesterday.Gowon Bowe, the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) preside

Some Building Code standards ineffective

The Ministry of Works yesterday teamed with the Bahamas of Society of Engineers (BSE) for a seminar on modernising and upgrading the building code.Antoinette Thompson, the Ministry’s permanent secretary, said the Government is pursuing a number of in

Niche markets, service to take Abaco to 'next level'

Abaco breached the 300,000 visitor mark for the first time in its history during 2017, ranking only behind Nassau for the number of tourists attracted to The Bahamas.Michael Pintard, pictured, minister of agriculture and marine resources, told the 15

Cruise line 'blown away' by maritime academy

A Royal Caribbean Cruises executive says he was “blown away” by the quality and breadth of the educational opportunities offered by the Bahamas-based LJM Maritime Academy.Russell Benford, one of the company’s vice-presidents, described the facilities

BICA president: Tell us what happened to national plan

A top accountant yesterday called for a “clear articulation” on the fate of the National Development Plan (NDP), given that many of its key architects have effectively been “redeployed”.Gowon Bowe, pictured, the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Account

Bahamas 'stands out' as major IFC

A Cabinet minister yesterday underscored the Government’s commitment to maintaining The Bahamas as a “clean, compliant and transparent” financial services centre.Brent Symonette, minister of financial services, trade and industry and Immigration, sai

Wednesday, September 26

Artist presents sculpture to mark tenth anniversary celebration of NAD

THE Nassau Airport Development Company was presented with a sculpture by Bahamian artist Dede Brown for its tenth anniversary as operators of Lynden Pindling International Airport.The Vantage Airport Group unveiled its official plaque dedicating the

Glenys: Cat Island airport handling unacceptable

FORMER Transport Minister Glenys Hanna Martin described the Minnis Administration’s treatment of the Arthur’s Town, Cat Island airport as “unacceptable” in a statement released yesterday. She was responding to comments by Tourism and Aviation Minist

Labour Day driver charged

THE 23-year-old driver of the truck that mowed through a crowd during the Labour Day Parade was remanded to prison yesterday after being charged with negligently causing the deaths of four women.

US diver bitten by reef shark

A MASSACHUSETTS woman, who was airlifted to Florida after a shark attack in Abaco over the weekend, is reportedly recovering in hospital after successful surgery to save her fingers.

Beach body is missing victim of ‘shooting’

A DECOMPOSING body was found on a beach in Abaco Monday evening.

JUST OLD DEBTS: Bethel insists money to contractor Ash ‘all above board’

ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel confirmed instalment payments from the government are still being made to “whistleblower” Jonathan Ash for a debt the Minnis administration found on the books upon taking office.

Lighthouse Point petition nears 30,000 signatures

NEARLY 30,000 people have signed onto the petition launched by three Central Eleuthera High School students to “Save Lighthouse Point”, according to organisers. Wadainya Weinberger, Franchesca Hanna and Kristman Moss were presented with Good Citizens

'Unlock the potential of cascarilla'

THE Bahamas Development Bank is moving ahead with its programme to industrialise cascarilla in Acklins, Crooked Island and Samana Cay.A town hall meeting will be held in Acklins on Friday at 6:30pm in the Spring Point Community Centre, according to a

Sunshine Auto Wildcats win ladies’ title

With another impressive showing, the Sunshine Auto Wildcats proved that they are simply the best ladies’ team in the New Providence Softball Association, repeating as champions last night.

Suspect 'accused cousin' of killing man and taking cash

A man accused of perverting the course of justice in a murder trial admitted to police that it was his cousin who killed the deceased near Woods Alley two years ago for cash, then used some of the blood money to buy a car.Carlderon Brown, 27, told po

Neighbourhood watch training completed

MORE than 60 residents in Grand Bahama have completed their training for the National Neighbourhood Watch Council to help reduce crime in communities throughout the island.National Security Minister Marvin Dames told some 65 graduates assembled at th

Grand Lucayan consultation?

IT might be too late, in fact it is but what if Cabinet had consulted with a few knowledgeable business folk on the Lucaya deal we might have saved ourselves what on the face of things is a raw deal. Sorry, since coming to office the FNM don’t consult!

Teenager hurt in shooting

POLICE are investigating an early morning shooting yesterday that left a teenager in hospital. According to reports, the 18-year-old was walking on McCullough Corner shortly after 7am when he heard the sound of gunshots and felt a burning sensation a

Lawyer firm helping to prepare for hurricanes

ASSOCIATES at McKinney, Bancroft and Hughes partnered with the Red Cross to package and distribute one hundred hurricane preparedness boxes for the Fort Charlotte community last week.The hurricane season spans from June to November; however, the law

'We need more people' in diving industry

MINISTER of Agriculture and Marine Resources Michael Pintard yesterday issued a call for all young Bahamians interested in a diving career to contact his ministry.Michael Pintard stressed the need for more Bahamians in this industry, and invited inte

ALICIA WALLACE: Living in the minefield of how women are expected to behave

After being found guilty of three counts of aggravated indecent assault of Andrea Constand, Bill Cosby was sentenced to three to ten years yesterday. Prosecutors and defence attorneys agreed to merge the three counts to one sentence. Cosby’s attorney had asked for house arrest given his age and legal blindness.

Beijing and The Bahamas - a developing story

As important members of emerging economies and the developing world, Latin American and Caribbean countries play major roles in safeguarding world peace and development. Though far apart from each other, China and Latin America and Caribbean countries have a long history of friendship, dating back to the 16th century - by means of “The Manila Galleon” - when China started trade exchange with Latin America and the Caribbean countries.

Lighthouse Point park plan ideal

ONE Eleuthera Foundation’s proposal to turn Lighthouse Point into a national park with gateway economic zones fits perfectly with the government’s push to empower small Bahamian business.

Do better than Disney

To think God gave us this place of untold beauty....and for the love of money we were prepared to spit in his face, there is no greater shame.

‘Golden girl’ Miller-Uibo to host Bay Street mile November 10

FOR the second consecutive year, ‘Golden Girl’ Shaunae Miller-Uibo will host the Bay Street Mile on Saturday, November 10.

FIFA vice president Victor Montagliani visits Bahamas

VICTOR Montagliani, the vice president of FIFA and the president of CONCACAF, came to the Bahamas recently for a brief visit as he was on a tight travel schedule but had to stop by to pay a visit to his constituency before he left for Zurich, Switzerland.

09262018 EDITION

Wednesday, 26th September, 2017.

'All homes benefit' if port wins expansion

All “homes across New Providence” will benefit if the island’s sole cargo port operator expands into Nassau’s cruise port and LNG bunkering, its top executive argued yesterday.Michael Maura, chief executive of BISX-listed Arawak Port Development Comp

$300k Memories guarantee creates Lucayan dispute

The Christie administration’s continued payment of $300,000 per month to Hutchison Whampoa, despite the Memories resort’s closure, is central to an ongoing dispute over the Government’s Grand Lucayan deal.Tribune Business can reveal that, as part of

Act review could ‘throw Bahamas back into chaos’

The Government “will throw The Bahamas back into the chaos of haphazard, checkerboard development” if it goes too far in “watering down” key planning laws, a QC warned yesterday.

Dingman to face default judgment

A Lyford Cay resident’s former business partners have been given permission by a New York judge to seek a default judgment against him over the collapse of his Nassau restaurant empire.Judge Naomi Buchwald last Monday allowed Erik Gordon and Ryan Giu

Bahamas 'in best position in region' to target groups

THE Bahamas is “in the best position in the Caribbean” to target the lucrative group travel market, a senior tourism official saying yesterday: “We see this as having huge growth potential.” Joy Jibrilu, pictured, the director-general of tourism, spe

Top tourism official gives climate change warning

The Caribbean must develop effective strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on the tourism sector and standards of living, a top tourism official said yesterday.Joy Jibrilu, the Ministry of Tourism’s director-general, addressing the open

Agency to host Business Expo

A Bahamian print, sign and marketing agency marking its first year in business is set to host a Small Business Expo that will allow local entrepreneurs to promote their offerings and network. Nkosi Symonette, president of Sign Island, said the Octobe

Financial analysts enjoy big kick-off

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Society of The Bahamas hosted its annual Kick-Off Event on September 6 at SuperClubs Breezes.It serves as an information session for persons interested in the programmes offered by the CFA Institute, the global f

Govt eyes full-fledged cascarilla development

A Cabinet minister yesterday talks are underway about building a true cascarilla industry in The Bahamas through the addition of “value-added” productionSpeaking ahead of a Cabinet meeting, Michael Pintard, minister of agriculture and marine resource

Jibrilu takes Japan

A senior Bahamian tourism official has visited Japan as part of an aggressive Caribbean-wide effort to promote the region’s attractions.Joy Jibrilu, the Ministry of Tourism’s director-general, was among 11 CARICOM representatives invited by the Japan

Tuesday, September 25

Cops grab 26 in huge Abaco raid

BAHAMIAN and American law enforcement officers teamed up for massive, surprise operation in Abaco yesterday, uncovering drugs and illegal weapons while arresting 26 people.

09252018 EDITION

Tuesday, 25th September, 2018.

Talks with physicians after demonstration outside hospital

DISCUSSIONS are underway between the Public Hospital Authority and junior physicians following last week’s demonstration outside of the Princess Margaret Hospital, according to managing director Catherine Weech.Mrs Weech said officials met with junio

Disney urged not to kill Eleuthera 'golden goose'

One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) CEO Shaun Ingraham characterised Disney’s proposal for Lighthouse Point as “killing the golden goose” as he defended the non-governmental organisation’s proposal for “responsible development”. Mr Ingraham insisted the “

Chef accused of defrauding 15 people of $8,000 cash

A 44-year-old female chef was sentenced to two years and two months in prison yesterday after pleading guilty to defrauding 15 people of over $8,000 in cash within the last month.Latoya Lesha Seymour was sentenced by Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-D

FACE TO FACE: Going above and beyond to help people hear again

The Bahamas is a small country filled with incredible people and it never ceases to amaze me when I have the good fortune to meet one of them. In this case, it was a Bahamian woman who is a trailblazer in medicine and continues to work hard to improve the lives of Bahamians suffering from hearing issues.

Cat Island airport’s future in balance

THE Minnis administration is reportedly at a “crossroads” over whether it will repair or permanently close the Arthur’s Town, Cat Island airport, Tourism and Aviation minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said yesterday.

Robber shot in botched bank raid

A PRISON officer foiled an attempted robbery when he shot the suspect outside a banking establishment on Prince Charles Drive yesterday afternoon.

Magistrate in case leads tributes to slain policeman

CHIEF Magistrate Joyann Ferguson Pratt led tributes last night to Inspector Carlis Blatch during a memorial service for the slain former aide-de-camp to Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling.

Couple’s killer jailed 60 years

Devaughn Hall was sentenced to 60 years in prison yesterday for the murders of Deadman’s Reef couple Barry and Sheena Johnson who were shot to death during an armed robbery at their home three years ago.

Victim: I pray for Labour Day driver – it was an accident

SIXTY-THREE-year-old Anabel Gibson thought she would die after a truck mowed through a crowd on East Street during the Labour Day parade in June.

Crowned with confidence

SHE may not have been crowned the queen of this year’s Miss Bahamas Universe pageant, but Shauntae Miller left the competition as the first runner-up and more confidence that she has ever had.

Help 100 women in need get free mammograms

A local registered nurse needs the public’s help in providing 100 free mammograms to women in need.

Are you ready to work on your dream?

What is it that you always wanted to do but could never find the time to pursue? This seems like a common thread in conversations today; people lamenting over what they want to do but not getting around to doing it. Years pass but the stories remain the same. You say you always wanted to make handbags, study law, bake cakes, fly a plane, but you can’t seem to find the time or the drive.

The fourth quarter: There is still time to finish the year strong

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.

Baha Mar to open on-site clinic for staff

As part of Baha Mar’s ongoing initiatives to promote well-being and create a positive workplace, the resort destination recently announced the implementation of expanded services for Baha Mar associates.

Shortstop Larikah Russell crowned batting champion

Shortstop Larikah Russell, on the verge of helping the Sunshine Auto Wildcats repeat as the New Providence Softball Association ladies’ champions, won the 2018 batting title.

Miller elected interim CEO of BAAA

MABELINE Miller, the assistant secretary of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA), was elected to serve as the interim chief executive officer with full oversight of the upcoming annual general meeting and election of officers.

Ayton and the Suns open training camp

DEANDRE Ayton’s development was one of the main talking points of Phoenix Suns’ media as the front office and teammates raved about the potential of the top overall pick.

Sherman Ferguson claims men’s title

SHERMAN Ferguson, the quiet slugger for the BTC Elite Warriors, has been named the New Providence Softball Association men’s batting champion.

Coach Tito Moss forms Red Line Athletics Track Club

WITH Dianne Woodside-Johnson taking a break from coaching and the Club Monica Track Club, assistant coach Tito Moss has formed the Red Line Athletics Track Club, the newest club to join the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations.

Buddy looks to improve his game for Kings

COMING off what he called “one of the best summers” of his life, Buddy Hield is poised to make improvements to his game and for the Sacramento Kings in the 2018-19 season.

THE PRESS BOX: Cowboy nation, it’s time to give Garrett ‘The Clapper’ the axe

AFTER another nauseating performance by my Dallas Cowboys this past Sunday, the cries for head coach Jason Garrett, alias “The Clapper”, to be axed grows even louder throughout Cowboys nation.

Minnis hails Bahamas' role in fighting apartheid

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis flagged the country’s historic role in the fight against apartheid yesterday during his remarks at the United Nations’ Nelson Mandela Peace Summit in New York.Speaking to world dignitaries, Dr Minnis said amid global w

FNM to break rule on convention

DESPITE its constitutional rule mandating conventions be held every two years, the Free National Movement will not convene a session until mid-2019.Free National Movement Chairman Carl Culmer confirmed this yesterday, adding the approval to put on th

Hospital team celebrates rehabilitation services

THE Public Hospital Authority will put a spotlight on the efforts of rehabilitation professionals as it works to raise public awareness on the diverse nature of rehabilitative services this week.Catherine Weech, managing director, spoke to the invalu

Tributes paid as Dr Wendy Stuart dies

AFTER fighting with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) for more than eight years, beloved former dentist Dr Wendy Stuart passed away on Saturday night.Dr Stuart, mother-of-two and the daughter of the late Bahamian singer Wendell Stuart, was diagnose

Ashley helps girls in need to ‘GLOW’

Charitable work has always been immensely important to 22-year-old University of the Bahamas student Ashley Moree, who firmly believes that you don’t have to be wealthy to help others.

Ferguson starting on the offensive line for Bearcats

CHRIS Ferguson has stepped into the starting role on the offensive line for the Cincinnati Bearcats and has been one of the driving forces behind the team’s dramatic improvement from a season ago.

'Onerous' law no excuse for Govt

The “onerous” provisions in The Bahamas’ main planning law are “no excuse” for the Government’s failure to uphold it, a cabinet minister admitted yesterday, amid a renewed push for reform.Desmond Bannister, minister of works, told Tribune Business th

'Tech hub' booster expands to Nassau

The firm that gave the Government’s “technology hub” ambitions a major boost is expanding its Bahamian presence through opening a satellite office in Nassau by early December.Greg Wood, founder and chief executive of GIBC Digital, told Tribune Busine

'Crystal clear': Minister's no to longline fishing

A Cabinet minister yesterday emphatically denied the Government plans to reverse the ban on longline fishing, telling Tribune Business: “We won’t change now.”Michael Pintard, minister of agriculture and marine resources, said he had been taken aback

Arawak port operator to 'save every penny'

The Nassau Container Port’s (NCP) operator is aiming “to save every penny we can” following a financial year where its predictions of a near-$3m profit decline proved spot-on.Dion Bethell, chief financial officer for BISX-listed Arawak Port Developme

BPL: ‘Long way to go’ in fighting fuel losses

Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chief executive yesterday conceded the utility has “a long way to go” to minimise fuel theft and wastage, as he pledged to protect consumers “at all costs”.

BFSB elects new board members

The Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) elected its board of directors for 2018-2019 at its recent 19th annual general meeting (AGM).K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister and minister of finance, used his keynote address to update the financia

Monday, September 24

09242018 HOME BUYERS' GUIDE

Monday 24th September, 2018.

09242018 EDITION

Monday, 24th September, 2018.

INSIGHT: Would you invest here with declarations like this?

The PM’s edict that work permits are to be reduced simply because too many have been issued is nonsense and pure economic suicide.

Union: Govt will get Lucayan money back and more

THE union representing Grand Lucayan workers believes the government will recoup all financial expenses used to purchase the resort and more.

INSIGHT: Hutchison must be laughing all the way to the bank

THERE are bad deals and then there are ones that are historically egregious – those that leave us perplexed how one could possibly agree the terms involved. The raw deal made for the Grand Lucayan definitely fits the bill as one of the worst set of negotiations ever performed by a Bahamian government.

Suspects detained after police seize drug hauls

TWO men are in police custody following the seizure of suspected marijuana valued at $15,000 in southwestern New Providence on Saturday.

UPDATED: Hit and run driver left victim to die in road

TRAFFIC police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a hit-and-run traffic fatality that occurred on the Tonique Williams-Darling highway.

Suspect shot dead ‘pointed gun at police’

A 22-year-old shot and killed by police in the Nassau Village community two years ago was not the person they were seeking to apprehend, according to police testimony on Friday.

Legal debts could force Nygard sale

ENVIRONMENTAL activists are seeking a Supreme Court order to have Nygard Cay sold to satisfy the $2.2m debt Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard owes in legal costs from illegal dredging activities.

Longline fishing ‘must not be allowed’

THE Bahamas National Trust is strongly opposed to the introduction of longline fishing within the country’s economic exclusive zone - a destructive practice it warned that could change the Bahamian way of life forever.

INSIGHT: Disney’s plan ‘no cause for alarm’

The people of Eleuthera are truly one of a kind.

Man stable in hospital after shooting

A MAN is in hospital following a shooting in the Flamingo Gardens community on Saturday.According to police reports, shortly after 10pm, a man was walking through a track road off Nigeria Drive when he was approached by a man with a firearm.The gunma

Govt in the North-East

HUBERT Minnis’s Government is to be congratulated for considering bringing local government to New Providence. Though, of course, there are more pressing problems, including crime and the debt, which should take precedence, bringing local government to New Providence will deepen our democracy. I wish Senator Ranard Henfield and his National Advisory Committee well.

EDITORIAL: A pawn in Washington's game

EACH day brings a new fusillade of advocacy and commentary about Brett Kavanaugh, US President Donald Trump’s historically controversial nominee to fill the vacancy on the American Supreme Court created by the resignation this summer of Anthony Kennedy.

INSIGHT: It’s not a fantasy - live younger, longer, better

Longevity. Not your concern if you’re in your 20s right? Wrong. Living to 120 or 150 years old. Sounds absurd at best, or an obsession for the top one percent of the population, right? Wrong again. What if we thought of longevity (and preventing ageing) as living younger, longer and better?

Funeral announced for George Pyfrom

FUNERAL services for George Loran Pyfrom, IV, 67, who died suddenly on Wednesday afternoon, will be held at St Matthew’s Anglican Church on Shirley and Church Streets on Friday, September 28, at 4pm.The Rt Rev Bishop Laish Boyd, Sr, Bishop of the Dio

Bahamas earns 'Best Team Trophy' at Ocean State Judo Championships

LED by Jasmine Russell, the Bahamian national team competed this weekend at the annual Ocean State Judo Championships, held in Providence, Rhode Island, bringing home the coveted best team trophy.The Ocean State is one of the USA’s best tournaments o

‘1,200 in work thanks to Labour on the Blocks’

SOME 1,200 people have been permanently employed as a result of the government’s Labour on the Blocks initiative, according to Department of Labour officials giving the results of its eighth job fair.

DNA hits out at ‘lazy’ resort purchase

THE Minnis administration’s “lazy” purchase of the Grand Lucayan Resort has exposed a lack of “business and negotiating skills” on the government’s part, according to Democratic National Alliance Deputy Leader Arinthia Komolafe.

WORLD VIEW: Almagro - more a General than Secretary

A FURORE surrounded Luis Almagro, the Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS), after the Associated Press (AP) reported him as encouraging military intervention in Venezuela to topple the government of President Nicolas Maduro.

Hitmen shutout Truckers 3-0 to grab 3-1 series lead

ACE Alcott Forbes, avenging a home run he gave up to fellow national team pitcher Thomas Davis in game two as the Commando Security Truckers won their only game so far, pushed the C&S Hitmen one game away from repeating as the New Providence Softball Association men’s champions.

Carey Jr all set for top league in Mexico

THE next step on the pro basketball journey for Michael Carey Jr will take him to the top league in Mexico.Carey reached an agreement with the Huracanes de Tampico of Mexico’s premier basketball league, Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional.He come

Wildcats rout Lady Truckers 17-5 to take 3-1 series lead

AS long as they continue hitting the ball, centre fielder Tyrice Curry said there’s no reason why her Sunshine Auto Wildcats should not be able to wrap up their defence of the New Providence Softball Association ladies’ championship crown on Tuesday

Hield and Ayton in NBA camps this week

BUDDY Hield and Deandre Ayton are set to begin their 2018-19 seasons as NBA training camps get underway this week.Hield and the Sacramento Kings will host Media Day today and will tip-off camp tomorrow at the team’s downtown practice facility at Gold

Game of Thrones

MANY idle Bahamians who may have little to do or may have too much down time have opined in recent times that former Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Perry Gladstone Christie, may, along with others, be “plotting” to launch a coup against the current leader of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), the Hon Philip “Brave” Davis, QC, MP (PLP-Cat Island; Rum Cay & San Salvador). This, of course, in my opinion, is pure and unadulterated cow manure.

‘An inconvenient truth’ for govt, developers

The government and developers can no longer ignore The Bahamas’ key planning law as “an inconvenient truth” after the Supreme Court ordered a key element be enacted by July 1, 2019.

Cabinet-approved PPP policy set for imminent release

A Cabinet-approved Public-Private Partnership (PPP) policy document is set for imminent release as the Government moves “to ensure we get taxpayers value for money”.KP Turnquest, pictured, deputy prime minister, told Tribune Business that the Governm

BPL oil theft exposed by sex in truck

A major oil theft from Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) was only exposed when the thief was distracted by having sex in his truck.

Consumers 'pay the price' for supporting agriculture

The Government has been urged to step back from direct involvement in the agriculture sector amid a “disconnection” between policy goals and budget spending allocations.A newly-published Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) analysis of Bahamian agri

Govt WTO negotiators 'armed and dangerous'

The Government’s WTO negotiating team will be made “armed and dangerous” through the highest possible level of private sector support, the Chamber of Commerce’s chairman is pledging.Michael Maura told Tribune Business that the business community’s in

Abaco 'plagued' by unlicensed business

Unlicensed businesses operating in unregulated districts on Abaco are one of the biggest problems “plaguing” the island, its Chamber of Commerce president believes.Ken Hutton, pictured, while addressing the Abaco Business Outlook conference, lamented

Web shops: We had 3-month 'tax holiday'

The Government’s changes to the web shop industry’s “sliding scale” tax structure will not prevent the sector moving forward with its legal challenge, a well-known QC says.Wayne Munroe, pictured, who is representing several web shops in their fight a

Sunday, September 23

Vendors want first refusal on port return

VENDORS at Festival Place are asking to be given first preference to return to the port area following the privatisation of the Prince George Wharf.Rory Dean, the lead spokesperson for the Festival Place Tenants Association (FPTA), said the group of

Friday, September 21

09212018 EDITION

Friday, 21st September, 2018.

09212018 WEEKEND

Friday, 21st September, 2018.

PHA: Expansion of salaries and benefits 'not sustainable at this time'

THE Public Hospitals Authority has disclosed that the expansion of salaries and benefits of medical personnel is “simply not sustainable at this time”, in the wake of last week’s demonstrations by healthcare unions over such outstanding issues.

Govt to cap number of subventions for UWI medical students

HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands has confirmed that the government will be capping the number of subventions allocated to medical students at the University of the West Indies to 25, noting this number is the “historic norm” that has increased “outside of policy” over recent years.

$6m fire and police station opened in Grand Bahama

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis officially opened a new $6m fire and police station in Grand Bahama Friday.

13 arrests after $135,000 of suspected cocaine found on Haitian vessel

POLICE arrested 10 men and three women in connection with the seizure of $135,000 worth of suspected cocaine found on a Haitian vessel at the harbour in Great Inagua.

Man dies in apparent drowning after diving

POLICE in Bimini are investigating an apparent drowning of a Bahamian man who was diving in waters off Great Isaac Cay Thursday.

A COMIC'S VIEW: Govt gets into gear with Traffic Act amendments

TABLED amendments to the Road Traffic Act, hopefully will make it a safer commute for Bahamian motorists.

McAlpine: Business people in here wouldn't spend their own money on Grand Lucayan

PINERIDGE MP Frederick McAlpine yesterday said businessmen in the Minnis administration would never spend their personal finances to buy the Grand Lucayan resort in the manner they are doing with taxpayer’s money. His statement was prompted by Free N

Malcolm Park basketball court gets a facelift

THE Malcolm Park basketball court got a facelift due to the collective efforts of the Bahamas Striping Group of Companies, KW Pavers, and the Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beach.

‘Not Oban, though it's an equally bad deal’

THE government’s acquisition of the Grand Lucayan was likened to Oban Energies’ proposed $5.5bn oil refinery for Grand Bahama as the Official Opposition continued its assault on the hotel purchase.

GRAND PLAN

THE Minnis administration stepped away from the Wynn Group’s proposal for the Grand Lucayan in Grand Bahama because its CEO Paul Wynn wanted extraordinary concessions, according to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, who revealed that deal would have cost the government $159.65m.

Eleuthera families: We want Disney

JOB creation will be the determining factor in the fight over the development of Lighthouse Point, according to one resident in Central and South Eleuthera.

PMH doctors walk-off the job for the second consecutive day

FOR a second consecutive day doctors at the Princess Margaret Hospital walked-off the job yesterday in protest over benefits and what they described as “ill-treatment”.

THE FINISH LINE: ‘We need to ensure that our athletes are comfortable’ right here at home

FOR years, we have complained that our elite Bahamian athletes have not been treated fairly and there was and is the possibility that we could and would lose some of them to other countries.

Convenience store robbed on Wulff Road

POLICE are investigating the armed robbery of a Wulff Road convenience store on Wednesday. A man entered the store off Market Street shortly after 10am, held up an employee and robbed the store of cash, according to Supt Shanta Knowles. The robber es

Roberts has his ‘best event back’ following wrist surgery

AS he continues his return to form, Justin Roberts produced what he called his “best event back” following wrist surgery last summer.

Wildcats snatch 2-1 lead

CAPITALISING on a 16-run third inning, the defending champions Sunshine Auto Wildcats went on an offensive tear as they routed the Johnson’s Lady Truckers 27-6 to snatch a 2-1 lead in their New Providence Softball Association’s best-of-seven ladies’ championship series in the Banker’s Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting complex on Thursday night.

Jones set to play basketball in southeastern Europe

Although they’ve been trying for the past two years to convince her to change her mind, Women’s National Basketball Association player Jonquel Jones has switched allegiance from the Bahamas and will now be playing basketball on the international scene for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Crown seeking the death penalty over murder of couple

THE Crown is seeking the maximum penalty of death for murder convict Devaughn ‘Short Man’ Hall for the “brutal slaying” of an unarmed couple shot to death at their residence in Grand Bahama in 2015.At Hall’s sentencing hearing in the Supreme Court ye

PLP set to train aspirant candidates in Grand Bahama

THE Progressive Liberal Party will be training aspirant candidates in Grand Bahama at the end of the month, PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell announced this week.The training module will be staged for people interested in running in the next general electio

Kingdom Government Movement eyes 2022 General Election

A NEW political organization called the Kingdom Government Movement has set its sights on the 2022 General Election. Led by Kevin King, a natural medicine doctor, the party’s four areas of focus are: replacing the Westminster system of government, t

A brave new world

There has been some idle talk in recent times that there is or might be a coup being plotted against the leadership of the Hon Philip ‘Brave’ Davis MP, QC (PLP-Cat Island; Rum Cay and San Salvador) by individuals and cabals within the Progressive Liberal Party. As a life long member and supporter of this iconic political juggernaut, I wish to disabuse right thinking Bahamians of this fake observation.

'Attacker looked like a psycho' before alleged assault on Paradise Island

THE woman allegedly assaulted near a Paradise Island parking lot earlier this month yesterday said her attacker looked like a “psycho” before he ultimately threw her to the ground over an apparent parking dispute.However, in response to suggestions f

Public-private-partnership considered for Prince George Wharf management

TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday said the government considering a public-private-partnership for the day-to-day management of the Prince George Wharf as it eyes the overall improvement of the country’s top cruise port.Responding to ques

Why pave now?

I have seen the notice from the government that Bernard Road is to be paved. I’m thankful it is being paved.

PM intervenes on Lucayan 'looting'

The Prime Minister “aggressively” intervened to prevent Hutchison Whampoa “looting” the Grand Lucayan on the eve of the Government’s takeover, Tribune Business was told yesterday.Michael Scott, chairman of Lucayan Renewal Holdings, the Government-own

Grand Lucayan's financing needs may hit $124m

The Grand Lucayan’s total capital financing needs, inclusive of the $65m purchase price, could almost double to $124m, the deputy prime minister revealed last night.K Peter Turnquest, concluding debate on the guarantee needed to secure $35m in acquis

'Act of cruelty' if govt ignored Grand Lucayan

A Cabinet Minister yesterday warned it would be “an act of cruelty and neglect” to allow the Grand Lucayan to become another Royal Oasis, with Freeport’s air arrivals down 56 percent in two years.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation,

Grand Lucayan buyer: 'I admit I was asking a lot'

The Grand Lucayan’s last potential buyer yesterday confirmed he sought a 20 percent electricity rate discount and hundreds of work permits, saying: “I’m not denying I was asking a lot.”Paul Wynn, the Wynn Group’s chief executive, told Tribune Busines

'Legality' cleared up: New web shop taxation in effect

The web shop industry’s “sliding scale” tax structure took effect on Wednesday following changes to address operator concerns over its legality, a cabinet minister revealed yesterday.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune

Only trim the tree for valid reasons

MANY employers struggle over whether or not to terminate employees who have proven themselves liabilities rather than assets. This struggle is perhaps linked to a number of factors, including the size of the talent pool; concern for the individual’s

DPM: 'Reimagine' the economy from scratch

The Deputy Prime Minister has urged Bahamian entrepreneurs to “reimagine the economy” and how they would create industries such as tourism “from scratch” today.K Peter Turnquest, speaking at the Millionaire’s Mile Fireside Chat, an event held to mark

Chamber, Govt focus on trade with harvard

Chamber of Commerce executives and Government officials participated in the Harvard Programme to help prepare for the World Trade Organisation (WTO) accession and other trade issues.They heard from Harvard trade economists and policy experts about im

Eighth 'Labour on the Blocks' set for Saturday

The Department of Labour is holding its eighth “Labour on the Blocks” job fair tomorrow at CV Bethel High School on East Street South.Staff from the Department and 22 businesses, including cruise ship recruiters and training companies, will be presen

Opposition pegs Grand lucayan cost at $100m

The Opposition’s deputy leader yesterday estimated that the Government’s Grand Lucayan purchase will ultimately cost Bahamian taxpayers “at least $100m”, branding the deal “ill-advised”.Speaking in the House of Assembly yesterday, Chester Cooper, pic

Minister lauds poultry's 'huge' growth potential

A Cabinet minister yesterday lauded the domestic poultry sector’s growth potential as “huge” given that it currently supplies just 15 percent of the Bahamian market.Michael Pintard, pictured, minister of agriculture and marine resources, addressing t

Thursday, September 20

09202018 NEWS

Thursday, 20th September, 2018.

Speaker calls for amendment to eliminate 'supersized' Cabinets

HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie yesterday called for an amendment to the country’s Constitution establishing an upper limit for the appointment of ministers to eliminate “supersized” Cabinets.Additionally, Speaker Moultrie said there remains an “adulte

Union Walk-out at PMH

THE Bahamas Doctors Union President Melisande S Bassett yesterday led practitioners in a walk-out at the Princess Margaret Hospital over persisting issues between the group and senior health officials.“Our heads have been bruised, we are bloodied, b

Hutchison escapes $3.25m tax on Grand Lucayan sale

The Government was “too nice” in allowing Hutchison Whampoa to exit its Grand Lucayan debacle without paying $3.25m in Stamp duty and pocketing other payments/concessions.

Bahamas ‘in good shape’ over WTO’s 15% tariff demand

The Bahamas’ “is in good shape” to lower its average tariff rate to the 15 percent demanded by the WTO, its chief negotiator said yesterday, describing this as a “good deal” for consumers.

Crypto, ICO rules completed within ‘the next 30 days’

A regulatory framework to facilitate initial coin offerings (ICO) and crypto currency exchanges in The Bahamas could be completed within 30 days, Government’s technology “hub” chairman said yesterday.

Oil explorer shrugs off end to ‘exclusive’ talks

A Bahamas-based oil explorer yesterday said it was now locked in joint venture talks with “multiple parties” after a “major global oil company” ended their exclusive negotiations.

No PI bridge toll rise to end $6.7m deficit

The Paradise Island Bridge Authority yesterday expressed optimism it will wipe out the $6.676m deficit in its bond repayment fund by the 2019 year-end target without having to raise toll fees.

Footage of police assault ‘appalling’

NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames conceded yesterday the Royal Bahamas Police Force must be more transparent with the public about its investigations into use-of-force incidents involving police officers.

HANG UP AND DRINK UP TOO: Drivers face ban from using phones and booze in cars

PROPOSED amendments to the Road Traffic Act will make it illegal to drive or operate a vehicle while using a cellphone, or with an open alcoholic beverage.

Family’s agony over double murders

A relative of slain Deadman’s Reef couple Barry and Sheena Johnson told the Supreme Court her family continues to struggle with the pain of how they were “murdered and left like animals” three years ago.

Post office move: It’s back to square one

THE GOVERNMENT has gone back to the drawing board on plans to relocate the General Post Office, according to Transport Minister Renward Wells.

Athletes in meet and greet at the House of Assembly

THE House of Assembly welcomed Olympic 400m gold medallist and 2018 Diamond League winner Shaunae Miller-Uibo, her husband and Olympian decathlete Maicel Uibo, Olympic medallist Leevan Sands, and Jamaican Olympic gold medallist and sprinting star Asa

Tributes to sculptor and artist Stephen G E Burrows

PROMINENT Bahamian sculptor and artist Stephen G E Burrows, who dedicated his life to the culture of art in public spaces, has passed away.The 80-year-old was the first Bahamian steel and metal artist to have his artistry publicly showcased throughou

BAISS softball up first on athletic calendar

Several weeks into the academic year, the athletic calendar gets underway for the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools with the 2018 softball season.A total of 38 teams will compete in four divisions this season, with opening pitches

Sastre Jrand crewwin waterpolo title

GABRIEL Sastre Jr made the most of a rare opportunity to train and compete alongside an Argentinian water polo club en route to a tournament title.Sastre recently joined GEBA Water Polo Club to a national tournament title in Santa Fe, Argentia. He fi

Opposition refuse consent on Grand Lucayan debate

DEBATE on a resolution for a $35m loan to complete the government’s Grand Lucayan purchase in Grand Bahama was delayed yesterday after the Official Opposition refused consent insisting they did not receive the needed documents to properly debate the

Three men and a woman arrested in connection with home invasion

POLICE have arrested three men and a woman in connection with a home invasion and armed robbery that occurred in the early hours Tuesday.

Order for Super Value to pay former staff member $10k overturned

THE Court of Appeal has overturned an Industrial Tribunal’s order for Super Value to pay one of its former assistant managers $10,000 for firing him for gross negligence.The former manager reportedly said he was too tired from working a double shift

Bid for more time to challenge leniency of sentence denied

THE Crown’s bid at seeking more time to challenge the leniency of a man’s sentence for having sex with his lover’s 15-year-old daughter has been shot down by the country’s second highest court. Court of Appeal President Sir Hartman Longley, and fello

D'Andre Vilmar to join the Grizzlies this fall

THE long recruiting process for Bahamian prep basketball player D’Andre Vilmar has concluded with a commitment to a junior college powerhouse.Vilmar will join the Missouri State-West Plains Grizzlies for the upcoming Fall 2018-2019 campaign.The 6’4”

Pro boxer Sands has fists set on undefeated streak

BAHAMIAN pro boxer Amron Sands will look to continue his undefeated streak next month when he makes his return to the ring next month.Sands (6-0) will face journeyman Francois Russell (3-28) at Friday Night Brawl presented by Fight Night Promotions a

Tony Zervos, Tribune archivist, dies age 81

TRIBUNE archivist Tony Zervos, 81, died at the Princess Hospital at 10pm Tuesday.Mr Zervos joined The Tribune about 10 years ago as the newspaper’s archivist after retiring from the staff of the Higgs and Johnson law firm, where he was the archivist/

Teenager arrested over alleged drug possession at school

A teenager allegedly caught with illegal drugs in his possession was arrested at a high school in Abaco on Tuesday.ASP Pinder reported that shortly after 3pm on Tuesday police were called to the S C Bootle High School, where a 17-year-old male studen

DIANE PHILLIPS: How do you know when it’s time to trade the old for the new?

There is an almost inexplicable pleasure in cleaning out a drawer, a satisfaction that far exceeds what would seem appropriate for such a mundane task.

PETER YOUNG: Brexit - so how did Britain get to this painful Euro exit?

The decision by Britain to withdraw from the European Union following a referendum in 2016 continues to stimulate endless debate and controversy, not least because of a relatively narrow poll margin of 52 to 48 percent in favour of departure. In a high turnout of some 72 percent, 17.4 million voted to leave.

EDITORIAL: Will Woodward’s words see history repeat itself?

Bob Woodward is 75-years-old. He grew up west of Chicago, the son of an Illinois judge and graduated from Yale in 1965. After five years in the U.S. Navy, some spent at sea, he turned down an acceptance to study at Harvard Law School to start in journalism. Although his application was initially deferred, he was later accepted as a reporter for the Washington Post in 1971.

Where has the BAMSI money gone?

During the waning years of the last PLP administration, the constant cry from the Bahamian people was, “Where has the VAT money gone?”

Questions over BPL and URCA

There is a headline today: URCA to investigate BPL fires attributed to URCA’s CEO Bereaux. With respect to Mr Bereaux where is the investigation as to why BP&L who are totally governed through URCA did not apply under Articles…15…25-28 for permission to change the type of generation and fuel at Clifton?

ALIV solidifies 3-year, $30,0000 sponsorship of Bahamas rugby

ALIV has proudly solidified its exclusive three-year $30,0000 telecommunications sponsorship of the Bahamas Rugby Association (BRA).ALIV executives, Chief ALIV Partner Alan Bates, ALIV General Manager of New Providence Patrice Thompson, and ALIV Netw

BAIC aids 'Silicon valley' objectives

The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) is supporting the Government’s plan to make this nation the “Silicon Valley of the Caribbean” by hosting a seminar to enhance small businesses’ Internet presence.The technology workshop was h

Wednesday, September 19

BTVI readies for City and guilds expansion

Twenty-seven persons from the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) recently attended training sessions that focused on City and Guilds’ assessment and quality assurance.The four-day training session in New Providence came as BTVI further

Davis against term limits for prime minister post

OPPOSITION Leader Phillip “Brave” Davis yesterday said instituting term limits for the Office of the Prime Minister may cause the public to be deprived of who it desires to be its representative.Mr Davis added he has “no issue” with fixed election d

Protection plan targets 43 sites

THE Bahamas Protected Group yesterday presented a three-year plan to expand marine protected areas to preserve future employment, protect the environment and help secure the country’s food sources.  

‘I’ll shut down island’ threat - over one manager

THE union representing Bahamas Power and Light employees threatened to “shut the island down” yesterday, angered by workers being treated like “dogs” at the power provider’s Mall at Marathon branch.

Bleeding, handcuffed, begging for help

A VIRAL video showing a bloodied man in handcuffs crying for help as a police officer knelt on his chest sparked outrage from social media users yesterday.

Crime stats down - and it’s ‘not by accident’

MAJOR crime categories continue to trend downward and it’s not by “happenstance”, National Security Minister Marvin Dames said yesterday.

OUT OF ORDER: Gibson’s lawyers attack prosecution’s ‘tainted’ evidence

LAWYERS for former Cabinet minister Shane Gibson yesterday accused the Crown of engaging in “wholly improper conduct” for allegedly conducting meetings with two key prosecution witnesses and their lawyers to discuss how the evidence they would eventually give against Gibson should be “edited” or “amended”.

EDITORIAL: As millions flee seeking a better life we must honour our laws

The outcome of the recent election in Sweden has provided fresh evidence that the rise of populism in Europe continues apace. The Sweden Democrats, a far-right party denounced as racist, won some 18 percent of the total vote and now, in a post-election deadlock, could be part of some form of coalition government even though other parties are so far refusing to do deals with them

MP's wife accused of rowing with students

THE wife of Central and South Eleuthera MP Hank Johnson is being accused of berating two student activists calling for the preservation of Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera.According to claims by the students and their advisors, Wadainya Weinburger and Fra

Minister: Activists must connect with local residents

ENVIRONMENTAL Minister Romi Ferreira has emphasised the importance of environmentalists connecting with “people on the ground” and considering the need for jobs in the fight to save Lighthouse Point, Bahamas National Trust director Eric Carey told Th

Office of the Spouse to be complete this month

THE Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister will be completed by the end of the month, The Tribune understands.Patricia Minnis, wife of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, said yesterday she began working out of a temporary office in July.It was not

FACE TO FACE: Green shoots of political reform - but will they be allowed to grow?

Political and electoral reform has been a hot topic for years. It is one of the few things we all agree is needed in The Bahamas. Here I am referring to changes to the system of governance, elections and representation at the government level as well as within political parties.

University labs could study medical marijuana

MEDICAL marijuana could be among the list of natural resources set to come under the microscope at the University of The Bahamas’ research labs, according to its president Dr Rodney Smith, who said several groups are vying to partner with the institu

Murder is a national tragedy

THE murder of Inspector Carlis Blatch has rocked this nation. As it should. He is gone. We wish we could turn back the hands of time. We can’t.

Oh Shanendon

Would you kindly provide me with an opportunity to salute a dynamic young FNM politician in the person of the Shanendon Cartwright.

Davis wants details over Grand Lucayan purchase

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis says he received a draft resolution for the government’s acquisition of the Grand Lucayan Resort yesterday that is short on key details.Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis is expected to table the res

US man held after failure to declare nearly $40k

AN American man was arrested when he failed to declare $39,905 in cash at the Lynden Pindling International Airport.Police said the man presented himself to a US Border Control Officer shortly after 7pm, but failed to declare the true amount of curre

Truckers even series, 1-1

Starting pitcher Thomas Davis cracked a two-run homerun to tie the score at 3-3 in the sixth inning, but relief pitcher Eugene Pratt’s run-producing single with the bases loaded in the seventh propelled the Commando Security Truckers to a 5-4 victory

UB Mingoes men's soccer team lose to Florida College, Johnson University

THE Univeristy of the Bahamas Mingoes men’s soccer team scored a goal, created many opportunities along with some brilliant defensive plays during the weekend tour in Florida but still lost matches to Florida College and Johnson University. The Ming

'I look forward to the exciting things we are going to be doing,' says new minister

IT has only been about two months since Lanisha Rolle has been sitting in the seat as the first Bahamas female Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture.And while she has had a low-keyed transformation from the Minister of Social Services and Urban Devel

‘Diamond Queen' Shaunae gives youth a race to remember

TAKING a break from the formal events to celebrate her achievement, ‘Golden Girl’ Shaunae Miller-Uibo took to the streets where she interacted with the Kemp Road community.Yesterday’s walk-a-bout was conducted by ASP Wilton Johnson, along with Comman

Southern Shores Community Summer Tennis Camp was a success

ORGANISERS say the 2018 Southern Shores Community Summer Tennis Camp was a success.Fifteen boys and girls from the Southern Shores community participated in the 2nd annual summer tennis camp, held during the first two weeks in August at the Percy Mun

Resort developer in Q1 2019 IPO target

A Bahamian-led developer yesterday expressed hope its planned BISX listing in 2019’s first quarter will “change attitudes” towards local investment in the country’s largest industry.Sir Franklyn Wilson, pictured, head of Eleuthera Properties,

Marine pilot 'conflict' cost $108k offer

A Bahamian’s “conflicting” ties with a marine pilots group meant he lost the chance to become the South Riding Point terminal’s $108,000 per year ship berthing master.The Court of Appeal, in a unanimous September 13 ruling, upheld a previous verdict

QC: Bar must open for financial services

A well-known QC yesterday repeated calls for greater liberalisation of the legal profession if The Bahamas to sustain and grow its financial services industry.

Disney, opponents won't 'reignite South Eleuthera'

Disney and its opponents will “fail to reignite South Eleuthera’s middle class and change the game” with their rival plans for Lighthouse Point, a nearby developer argued yesterday.Instead, Sir Franklyn Wilson told Tribune Business that the controver

Ex-AG: Public owner register is ‘sector killer’

An ex-attorney general yesterday warned that a beneficial ownership registry accessible by the public will be an “industry killer” for Bahamian financial services, and should be “resisted at all costs”.

Culinary team selected as Hunger Ambassadors

The Bahamas National Culinary team has been chosen as the Hands for Hunger Ambassadors for the month of September.Hands for Hunger, the local non-profit charity, has been working to mitigate hunger by reducing food waste in The Bahamas for almost ten

Businessman: My WTO concerns were eased

A Bahamian businessman yesterday said many of his WTO-related concerns have been eased following the private sector’s meeting with the Government negotiating team last week.Robert Myers, pictured, who is part of the Chamber of Commerce’s World Trade

IMF: Bahamas in 'better place' on financial crime

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) yesterday praised The Bahamas’ efforts to strengthen its financial crime defences as a necessary safeguard against further loss of correspondent banking ties. Carolina Claver, a senior IMF financial sector expert

Ministry in STEP to sponsor conference

The Ministry of Financial Services, Trade and Industry and Immigration was a major sponsor of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) recent global conference.The event, held in Vancouver from 13-14 September 2018, hosted attendees from

Tourism workshop to visit out islands

Officials are planning to take the Tourist Money Never Done workshop to several Family Islands after last week’s inaugural event at the British Colonial Hilton was oversubscribed.The initiative was developed by the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation, i

Tuesday, September 18

call for views on local government

THE National Advisory Committee (NAC) is asking the public to weigh in on proposals for local government in New Providence.Last week, The Tribune reported concerns by retired Abaco publisher David Ralph, who suggested government take a closer look at

09182018 EDITION

Tuesday, 18th September, 2018.

FACE TO FACE: It’s never too late to turn your life around

Amein Burrows has completely turned his life around and believes if he has done it, so can the countless young men in this country who find themselves in a revolving door situation with the cops and the courts. He found the life he was chasing after – quick, fast money, nice cars and girls – came with a price too heavy to bear.

Ministry to investigate abandoned Abaco buildings

HEALTH minister Dr Duane Sands said yesterday his ministry will investigate the state of two abandoned buildings in Abaco to determine if they can be salvaged.His comments follow suggestions by residents that at least six abandoned buildings in the M

Social Services staff grieve for colleague found hanged

THE Department of Social Services closed its offices in Grand Bahama yesterday following the suspected suicide of a colleague over the weekend. The body of chief welfare officer Patrice Mack was discovered hanging at her home in Malibu Reef shortly a

War on crime 'needs more than just words'

BISHOP Simeon Hall yesterday said the government, particularly Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, must set the pace if the country is truly expected to stand united against criminality.Responding to Dr Minnis’ recent plea for unity, Bishop Hall contend

Suspect faces court over police officer’s murder

A 48-year-old man was arraigned in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday and charged with the murder of Inspector Carlis Blatch, the former aide-de-camp to Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling.

‘Help me find my son’

A WORRIED mother has asked for help to find her son - who she says went missing six weeks ago – a day before a woman allegedly claimed to having him killed.

Motoring misery for four weeks

WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister yesterday defended the decision to start a resurfacing exercise for Bernard Road tomorrow that will last for 21 working days.

Officers’ promotions ‘don’t add up’

THE Correctional Officers Staff Association has taken issue with the Department of Corrections’ decision to promote just over 60 officers despite a lack of the minimum educational qualification.

‘Enough - too many foreign workers’: Minnis warns labour permits must decrease

Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday more must be done to decrease the “thousands” of work permits approved annually in the country.

Stuart entering 3rd year as head coach at Life University

NYLES Stuart is now entering his fourth year at Life University and third year as its head coach. Stuart is also owner of Marietta Performance Training, a sports performance facility that specialises in fitness and strength conditioning for track an

Two face court after $30,000 cocaine find at airport

AN American man and a Bahamian man were both arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday over allegations they were found with $30,000 worth of cocaine at the Lynden Pindling International Airport last week.Tony Dexter Pickett, 30, of Port Charlotte, F

Minnis has 'absolute' faith in Bannister

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday that he “absolutely” still has faith in Public Works Minister Desmond Bannister despite several fires at Bahamas Power and Light Company, triggering power outages in the country.The most recent of these

20-year sentence for shooting quashed

THE Court of Appeal has quashed the conviction and 20-year sentence of a man previously found guilty of attempting to murder another man as he and his friends sat in a car outside his residence five years ago.Appellate Justices Jon Isaacs, Roy Jones

Police investigate after two bodies discovered

POLICE are investigating two suspicious deaths in separate incidents on Sunday.In the first death, police found human skeletal remains in a bushy area off the Eastwest Highway shortly after 9am.Investigators will await an autopsy report to determine

Two hurt in drive-by shooting

TWO men are in hospital following a drive-by shooting in the Fox Hill area on Sunday. According to police, occupants in a silver Toyota Paso opened fire on a group of men sitting in a vacant lot at the junction of Blueberry Hill Road and Armbrister S

Work ethic

Re: Seeking to plug the skills gap.

Governor General pays her respects to officer's family

GOVERNOR General Dame Marguerite Pindling paid respects to the family of late Aide-de-Camp to the Governor General, Police Inspector Carlis Blatch at their home in Yellow Elder on Sunday. The widely-respected aide-de-camp was shot in front of his da

John Bull raid suspect granted bail by court

ONE of two men accused of stealing over $900,000 worth of merchandise from a John Bull store in Grand Bahama while disguised as women, was granted $20,000 bail by a Supreme Court judge.Justice Bernard Turner granted Corradon Cockburn bail yesterday b

Firearm found by police

GRAND Bahama police discovered a firearm in the Freeport area on Sunday.According to reports, Central Detective Unit officers were on mobile patrol in the area of Tasman Close sometime around 3pm Sunday when they saw a group of men standing in the ar

EDITORIAL: Light years behind in alternative energy when the solution shines in our face

In yesterday’s Tribune, reporter Rashad Rolle explored incredible advances in the means by which countries across the world are producing power, many of them using floating platforms for massive installations of solar panels.

Lighthouse Point must be saved

I am a man and I cry. There, I have said it.

Board chair should resign

I would title this “Being in the real world where you are required to uphold trust’ - the article headlined yesterday “Chamber endorses CEO over ten-year securities barring’ is incredible and exceptionally worrying.

Danielle Grant casts off injury to become Miss Bahamas Universe

Animal lover nearly lost crown due to misdiagnosis

Had she taken the advice of her doctor, Danielle Grant might have never heard her name being called as the winner of this year’s Miss Bahamas Universe last Sunday.The 23-year-old beauty queen faced numerous obstacles throughout her pageant journey, i

Celebrating 10 years of 'Beauty Beyond Feelings'

THERE is no stopping Bahamian entrepreneur Raquel Pinder as she continues to be a voice for women year after year through her organisation Beauty Beyond Feelings.Celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, Raquel and her team recently held a succes

Students begin Doctors Hospital EMT course

Twenty promising Bahamians have embarked on a four-month course to become trained and certified emergency medical technicians and potentially land a guaranteed full-time job at Doctors Hospital.The group of 15 women and five men were chosen following

THE PRESS BOX: 'For all the naysayers, How 'bout them Cowboys?'

THE jury is still out on the Dallas Cowboys’ offence. However, it seems embattled offensive coordinator Scott Linehan got the memo. On the third play from scrimmage, WR Tayvon Austin flew past Giants QB Kelvin Martin as Cowboys QB Dak Prescott hit h

What are you sitting on?

You are sitting at your desk, getting ready to take on another work day, telling yourself this is the day you are going to complete all of your tasks, finish that report, work on the spread sheet, et cetera. You start putting away your purse or your

Out of the darkness

Sandilands shines a light on suicide and prevention methods

WHEN certain factors converge, anyone at any point in time can become suicidal, according to experts. And since suicide is a complex issue and there are no quick fixes, Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre continues to create awareness of suicide and ho

Bahamas Baseball Association gets umpires ready to officiate games

OVER the past few months, the Bahamas Baseball Association has been able to get all of the splinter organisations back under one umbrella. Last week, they concentrated on getting their umpires ready to officiate the games.Martin ‘Pork’ Burrows, the B

Derrick Atkins in assistant coaching post for Catamounts

NATIONAL 100 metre record holder Derrick Atkins became the latest Bahamian to earn a new coaching post in NCAA Division I Athletics.

Salute to Miller-Uibo, our 'Diamond queen'

With the rhythmic sounds of the junkanoo music playing in the background, ‘Golden Girl’ Shaunae Miller-Uibo was ushered through a parade of workers at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.The vis

USTA: Albany hosts elite collegiate tennis talent

THE Albany resort hosted elite collegiate talent on the tennis courts for the first in two weekends of United States Tennis Association sanctioned events.The LSU Tigers, North Carolina State Wolfpack and University of South Florida Bulls women’s tenn

Post-vacation reset

BPL faces early Shell call on ‘shortfall’ fear

Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) will reach out to Shell to bridge any near-term “shortfall” in Nassau’s power needs due to the recent Clifton Pier fires, it was revealed yesterday.

'One-stop shop' to exploit 50% foreign investment cost cut

RoyalFidelity will tonight launch a “one-stop shop” investment management platform that aims to exploit the more than 50 percent cut in the premium Bahamians pay to invest overseas.Michael Anderson, pictured, the Bahamian merchant bank’s president, t

DPM: Bahamas to 'fare well' in financial crime assessment

THE Government is confident The Bahamas will “fare well” in the latest assessment of its anti-financial crime defences following corrective action by the Minnis administration.K Peter Turnquest, pictured, the deputy prime minister, yesterday said the

Disabled manager wins Atlantis dismissal victory

Atlantis failed to exhaust all options in finding a suitable post for a 30-year disabled veteran, the Court of Appeal ruled yesterday, describing the case as a legal “first” in The Bahamas. The court, unanimously upholding an earlier Industrial Tribu

Ginn purchaser's '$1 per year' marina offer no-go

A neighbouring developer yesterday rejected the $2.8bn Ginn purchaser’s “demand” to lease marina fuel facilities for $1 per year as “silly”, while reaffirming his desire to co-operate with its plans.John MacDonald, president of Island Ventures Resort

Credit Bureau bidder 'shortlist' this month

POTENTIAL operators for The Bahamas’ first-ever credit bureau will be “shortlisted” this month, the Central Bank’s governor said yesterday.John Rolle, addressing an anti-money laundering/counter terror financing conference organised by the regulator,

Governor forecasts more financial industry shrink

THE CENTRAL Bank’s governor yesterday forecast a further decrease in the number of banks and trust companies operating in The Bahamas, with several smaller entities indicating plans to exit.John Rolle, pictured, addressing an anti-money laundering/co

Bahamas must innovate to grow financial services

THE Bahamas must develop new and innovative financial services products to build on its traditional roots, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.Brent Symonette, minister of financial services, trade and industry and Immigration, told an anti-money laund

Monday, September 17

University 'needs $300m not $3m'

THE University of the Bahamas will need to dramatically ramp up funding in order to meet ambitious goals of building a premier tertiary institution, according to its president Dr Rodney Smith.Dr Smith told reporters the institution was not satisfied

INSIGHT: Turning the tide - towards offshore solar energy

AS countries around the world wean themselves off fossil fuels, one increasingly popular alternative catches the eye: floating solar panels.

INSIGHT: The power rests in your hands alone PM Minnis

HEAVY hearts laden the country in the wake of the murder of Police Inspector Carlis Blatch, Aide-de-Camp of Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling. When the carnage in the country is localised to a bloodthirsty criminal element fixated on slaughtering each other in the streets, we simply pray not to get caught in the crossfire. However, when an innocent civilian is preyed upon, the reality that any of us can be snuffed out any time becomes a chilling revelation. It is much more alarming when it happens to a member of society whose sworn duty is to protect and serve.

‘Where’s the red carpet for Shaunae?’

ENGLERSTON MP Glenys Hanna-Martin last night complained about the lack of fanfare for 400m Olympic champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo on her return to The Bahamas last week after an extraordinarily successful season on the track and field circuit.

Sub-station blaze hits power for thousands

AN electrical fire at Bahamas Power and Light’s Baillou Hills sub-station over the weekend left parts of southwestern New Providence without power for periods up to 12 hours.

Minnis declares ‘War on Crime’

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday reiterated his plea for the country to unite against criminality as he underscored the psychological toll murders wrought on the nation.

Memo reveals new deals for Festival Place traders

THE privatisation of Festival Place is expected to be completed by next month, according to an internal memo being circulated among vendors and officials at the cruise terminal.

Marine in fatal crash with two pedestrians

TWO pedestrians were killed early yesterday morning after a collision with a car driven by an off-duty marine.

Three Americans held over gun seizures

THREE Americans are in police custody after they were found with weapons over the weekend.

Who uses a siren?

Who is permitted to legally use a siren and flashing lights?

Wildcats stop Lady Truckers to take1-0 lead

THE Sunshine Auto Wildcats got the timely hits and good pitching when they needed it as they rolled past the Johnson’s Lady Truckers 9-6 to snatch a 1-0 lead in their New Providence Softball Association ladies’ best-of-seven championship series on Sa

INSIGHT: Shorts fired in Dealey Plaza echo in the White House today

At precisely 1pm on November 22, 1963, the 35th president of the United States was pronounced dead at Parkland Hospital Trauma Room 1 in Dallas, Texas.

NCAA Football: Bahamians in the win column

NCAA football moved into week three with wins across the boards for Bahamian players at the Division I and Division II levels.Chris Ferguson and the Cincinnati Bearcats scored a 63-7 win over the Alabama A and M Bulldogs on Saturday in their home ope

Hitmen roll over Truckers 5-2 for 1-0 lead

Ace pitcher Alcott Forbes missed a no-hitter and the shut-out, but he was confident that his C&S Hitmen would not have lost game one of the men’s best-of-seven championship series against the Commando Security Truckers. The series got started in the Bankers’ Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex on Saturday night.

Welcome home 'Diamond Queen'

OLYMPIC gold medallist Shaunae Miller-Uibo can be seen (top left with her husband) here enjoying a welcome reception at the National Tennis Centre on Saturday night. Last week, she paid a courtesy call on Michael Pintard, the Minister of Agriculture

Govt aims for more cruise jobs

MIINISTER of Labour Dion Foulkes pledged the government’s commitment to creating more jobs for Bahamians in the cruise ship and maritime sectors during a recent tour of the LJM Maritime Academy (LJMMA) in Nassau.This pledge comes just days after Mini

Tinker, Reckley to join Conquistadors this fall

A PAIR of Bahamian players will join the freshman class at Dodge City Community College Basketball for the upcoming fall campaign.Deon’Ta Tinker and KJ Reckley are two members of a complete roster overhaul for the Conquistadors in the Kansas Jayhawk

Robbery conviction quashed by court

THE Court of Appeal has quashed the 2015 armed robbery conviction of Deangelo Antonio due to “defects” identified by the appellate judges.In their written ruling, Appellate Justice Jon Isaacs, along with Justices S. Maureen Crane-Scott and Roy Jones

EDITORIAL: Historic day for Princess Margaret Hospital

AS one of the most widely admired and oft quoted world leaders, Sir Winston Churchill’s rousing oratory, wit, and steadfast leadership during the London Blitz held a besieged and frightened nation together, while his legendary tenacity and profound sense of conviction rallied the UK to victory against Hitler’s Germany.

Bewildered inside the hospital

This week, I went to the Princess Margaret Hospital to visit a patient. When I entered the lobby, I was greeted by a very pleasant, helpful security guard. I said I was there to see a patient and was asked his name and when he was admitted. I had his name but was unsure about when he was admitted. The security guard let me pass and directed me to Accident & Emergency.

$2.8bn project's closing delayed by marina issue

The $2.8bn revival of Grand Bahama’s West End, which promises to create 1,400 full-time Bahamian jobs, has been delayed by marina-related concerns that have impacted the deal’s closing.Tribune Business can reveal that Skyline Investments, the Toronto

'One-stop shop' for Bahamians to trade globally

A bank has unveiled an online trading platform to give Bahamian investors direct “one-stop shop” access to the US and global financial markets.Cornèrtrader, a subsidiary of Bahamas-based Cornèr Bank (Overseas) subsidiary, said the initiative was desi

Former beauty queen: I'm not 'money hungry'

A Bahamian beauty queen-turned-songstress has accused the Ministry of Tourism of using “sharp tactics” to portray her as “money hungry” in the latest salvo of their acrimonious legal battle.Khiara Sherman, the former Miss Bahamas Universe, and her US

Govt reassurances on WTO 'irrelevant'

The Government’s drive for full WTO membership by mid-2020 is “unnerving” for Bahamian firms, a businessman branding reassurances from its new chief negotiator as “irrelevant”.Robert Myers, pictured, the former Bahamas Chamber of Commerce chairman, t

Anti-trade groups: 'We'll awaken the Bahamian people'

Anti-free trade activists have pledged to mobilise and “awaken the Bahamian people” against joining the WTO, with one saying: “Our leaders just don’t recognise the danger.”Paul Moss, a leading member of the Bahamians Agitating for a Referendum on Fre

Western Union targets 'top priority' out islands

WESTERN Union’s regional head says the company is targeting the Family Island vacuum caused by the withdrawal of the commercial banks as “a top priority”.André Largie said the commercial banking exit is enabling the money transfer business to expand

AML Foods suffers 63% q1 profits fall

AML Foods suffered a near-63 percent profit decline for the quarter to end-July 2018 as the hangover from its prior financial year carried over into the new one.Franklyn Butler, the BISX-listed food retail and franchise group’s chairman, blamed the d

BAIC to assist on web, social media

The Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) is aiming to help small businesses establish on online and social media presence to boost their visibility both locally and abroad.BAIC will tomorrow host a workshop facilitated by Kristi Pow

Sunday, September 16

Serious injuries after four vehicle crash on Grand Bahama

Four vehicles, including a church bus carrying parishioners, were involved in an accident in Grand Bahama on Saturday night that resulted in serious injuries.

Saturday, September 15

Police investigate suspected suicide in Freeport

Police on Grand Bahama are investigating a suspected suicide after a woman's body was discovered at a home in Freeport on Saturday evening.

Friday, September 14

09142018 EDITION

Friday, 14th September, 2018.

09142018 WEEKEND

Friday, 14th September, 2018.

Edison Sumner tenders resignation as Bahamas Chamber of Commerce CEO

EDISON Sumner tendered his resignation as director and CEO of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation on Friday following a report this week about his ten-year ban from the securities industry.

Electricity issues force closure of Ministries of Health, Public Services

THE Ministries of Health and Public Services were closed Friday due to electricity issues, which also affected water supply.

Two questioned in connection with Inspector Carlis Blatch killing

POLICE are questioning two people in custody about the killing of Inspector Carlis Blatch, the slain aide-de-camp to Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling, according to Assistant Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander. He told The Tribune the two are being treated as suspects in the matter.

Two in court over drugs in food plate at Department of Corrections

TWO women were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with the discovery of a quantity of marijuana in a plate of food presented to the Bahamas Department of Corrections earlier this month.

Sentencing of convicted murderer postponed

THE sentencing of convicted murderer Devaughn “Short Man” Hall was postponed for a second time, to Friday, September 21, in the Supreme Court on Grand Bahama.

Man charged with 42 counts of fraud

AN Exuma man faced a list of fraud charges on Friday in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court in Grand Bahama.

'Wait for evidence' on medical marijuana

HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands vowed not to throw around the weight of his personal views in the medical marijuana debate as he brought opening remarks at the country’s first medical marijuana symposium on Wednesday evening.The event, hosted by the M

Lucayan’s $1m staff debt safe

The government will assume all li abilities including about $1m in back pay owed to workers at the Grand Lucayan resort in Grand Bahama.

‘Beaten to death with a conch shell’

A row between two men ended with one battering the other to death using a conch shell as a weapon, Supreme Court jurors heard yesterday.

‘PURSUE HIM TO BOUNDS OF HELL’: Minnis rails at aide’s killing - he must be caught

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has instructed Royal Bahamas Police Force Commissioner Anthony Ferguson to use all resources available, including marines to track Inspector Carlis Blatch’s killer, even to the “bounds of hell,” to ensure justice is done.

Students unite in tribute - as principal reassures over safety

THE principal of HO Nash Junior High School has insisted the campus does not have a security problem, one day after the fatal shooting of a police officer in the proximity of the school. However, during an assembly held yesterday morning, Principal C

24 arrests in police swoop

POLICE arrested 24 people on Wednesday night in connection with a number of serious crimes such as murder, armed robbery, possession of illegal firearms and dangerous drugs during Operation “Strong Finish” in New Providence.The operation targeted per

Gaming group announces scholarship recipients

THE Bahamas Gaming Operators Association has announced its Adopt-A-School Programme’s 2018 scholarship recipients.“Today, these amazing students, will continue to obtain power through knowledge, become even more liberated in their thinking and help t

'I don't think the score indicated how well we played'

ONE of the greatest thrills for any junior athlete is to make a senior national team. The biggest thrill once they do is to get a starting nod.Last week, 16-year-old Mario Johnson got to enjoy the best of the two scenarios when the men’s team played

Dionisio right

THE Hon Dinisio D’Aguilar (FNM- Free Town), Minister of Tourism & Aviation, is the hardest working member of the Minnis cabinet. Prior to entering politics he was a business executive with the family owned business, Super Wash, and a director/shareholder in numerous private entities. A Chartered Accountant by profession, he knows how to crunch numbers and he has a firm knowledge of his cabinet responsibilities and the expectations of the people of The Bahamas.

Murder suspect faces court

A New Providence man was charged with murder in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

Meditation - Without wrinkle or spot

“To present the church in Himself in splendour, without spot or wrinkle or anything of the kind—yes so she may be holy and without blemish.” (Ephesians 5:27)It cannot be cement blocks and wooden floors, stained-glass windows or doors to which the Apo

Control your ego

Question your motives as to why you are involved in the things you are doing right now. This should include even your involvement in the church. This investigation might show us doing some good things for the wrong reason.It’s amazing how we believe

800 screened for prostate cancer in Grand Bahama

A RECORD 800 men on Grand Bahama were screened for prostate cancer during an annual event hosted by Us TOO Grand Bahama, in partnership with the Cancer Society of The Bahamas.This year’s turn-out surpassed all others that have been held since 2011, a

Bahamians urged to follow orders over hurricane

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has asked international Bahamian students in Hurricane Florence’s path to comply with all orders for mandatory evacuations. Some students have already evacuated affected states, heeding warnings from local officials an

PM: I still want probe of BPL after board collapse

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said yesterday he is still committed to his promised investigation of Bahamas Power and Light and the collapse of its board of directors three weeks ago. He said the terms of reference for the probe had to be complete

Looking to the future of Bahamas health care

Dr Desirée Cox MD, PhD, founder and CEO of the HEALinc Future Health Innovation Summit and Dr Charles Diggiss, president of Doctors Hospital, hosted a luncheon for a select group of Future Health stakeholders on Wednesday at Lucianos of Chicago. Pres

Officers 'closing in' on murder suspect

ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander said yesterday evening that officers are closing in on the person they believe killed Inspector Carlis Blatch, the aide-de-camp to Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling. “I will have some good ne

Hearing today in John Bull case

ONE of two men accused of the daylight robbery of a John Bull store in Grand Bahama back in July will finally have his bail application heard in the Supreme Court later today.Corradon Cockburn, 30, of Mangrove Avenue was charged with Diego Carey, 23,

A COMIC'S VIEW: Oh so now you care about attention to detail over Oban

THE Minnis administration apparently is still in “good faith” talks with Oban Energies, over a proposed oil refinery in Grand Bahama.

EDITORIAL: Let this shocking crime serve as a wake-up call

THE truly shocking news of the murder of the Aide-de-Camp to the Governor General Inspector Carlis Blatch has truly rocked the nation.

It's down to education

I sat down this morning intending to write a letter about the astounding figure of $600m. This is the number put forth by Minister D’Aguilar, who says that Bahamians spend $600m per year in the web shops.

Oban deal

OBAN Energy Heads of Agreement…if signatories do not comply with the terms of an agreement then what happens to that agreement?

Young people, put God first!

It is so disheartening to see so many of our young people dying here in The Bahamas; so young and talented. So many expectations and dreams left unfulfilled. The late Dr Myles Munroe once said that the graveyard is the richest place on earth, being f

Lighthouse Point

RE: Alternative Sustainable Development Plan for Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera Letter of Support

Cornish emerges as team leader for the Seawolves

HEADED into his senior season with the Stony Brook Seawolves, Jaron Cornish has emerged as a team leader during offseason workouts.Following a summer where he made his Bahamas senior men’s national team debut, Cornish was back on campus in New York a

Jazz Chisholm and Visalia Rawhide face elimination

JAZZ Chisholm homered in game two, but his Visalia Rawhide are now faced with elimination and an 0-2 deficit in the California League Championship series.With his two-run home run, he finished 1-4, drove in two RBI and scored a run in a 9-3 loss to t

Truckers to face Wildcats in ladies’ championship

This will probably be a birthday celebration that Shevette Taylor won’t forget anytime soon.

Davis: GSSSA eager to get season started next month

FOLLOWING their initial meeting with the general body, Government Secondary Schools Sports Association president Varel Davis said they are eager to get the 2018/19 season started next month.Davis, who was elected during the last school year to her se

'Golden girl' Shaunae visits minister Pintard

‘GOLDEN girl’ Shaunae Miller-Uibo is home and one of her first visits was a courtesy call on Michael Pintard, the Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources.Miller-Uibo made the visit to Pintard, the former Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, ye

Robinson to begin collegiate basketball career with Runnin' Bulldogs in the fall

SHERMAN Robinson will begin his collegiate basketball career with the Navarro College Runnin’ Bulldogs this fall.The 6’7”, 200-pound swingman heads to Navarro following an acclaimed senior season for the Legacy Early College Lions in Greenville, Sout

Exuma's Bethel Union Baptist celebrates 126th anniversary

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.”It was in a spirit of jubilation and than

Southside Christian shows support for high-achieving students

In an effort to recognise its youth congregation, members of the Southside Christian Church International this year once again hosted a special back-to-school Sunday service.Shantell Bernadin, a pastor’s assistant at Southside Christian, told Tribune

A spiritual start to school

THE youth ministry at Christ the King Community held it first annual back-to-school prayer breakfast.Students, teachers and parents started the new semester on the right foot during the time of worship.There were special guests during the event, incl

Freemasons show brotherly love

Rev Stephen Smith and the Ebenezer church family in Farmer’s Hill, Exuma, were pleased to host Most Worshippable Master Don Rolle and the Freemasons of Mount Royal Lodge #20 of Exuma Prince Hall.Grand District Deputy Jason Anderson brought remarks an

Eleuthera gets a new Anglican deacon

The Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos announced the ordination of Dave Dimitri Thomas to the Holy Order of Deacons at St Patrick’s Church, Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, on Thursday.Dave Thomas was born in Nassau and grew up in

DPM: No more VAT hikes before election

The Deputy Prime Minister yesterday pledged there will be no further VAT increase before the next general election, as he slammed “mischief” and “nonsense” spread by social media.KP Turnquest told Tribune Business that a further VAT rate hike would n

Apparel, shoe prices can't match Customs cut, Govt is warned

Clothing and shoe retailers are warning the Government not to expect the 20 percent Customs duty elimination to translate into consumer price declines of the same magnitude.Michael Maura, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s

Contractors 'perplexed' over GB project silence

THE Bahamian Contractors Association’s (BCA) president yesterday said it was “perplexing” that the Government had failed to publicise 900 construction jobs being created by a Grand Bahama condo project.Leonard Sands, pictured, told Tribune Business t

Broker's legal advisers slam 'connoisseur of scams' slur

Attorneys for the principal of a Bahamas-based broker/dealer yesterday slammed smears that brand him “a connoisseur of scams” as “false and defamatory”.Legal representatives for Guy Gentile, head of Bay Street-based Swiss-America Securities, said his

Cruise lines 'not barred' from port manage bid

A Cabinet minister yesterday said the cruise lines “will not be barred” from bidding to take over Prince George Wharf’s management, adding: “All offers will be judged on merit.”Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune Busine

Abaco conference to focus on airlift, jobs

The 15th annual Abaco Business Outlook (ABO) conference will address the island’s economic challenges, including reduced airlift and high unemployment, when it is held next Thursday.The forum, which will take place on Thursday, September 20, at the A

Bahamas hosts major insurance conference

INSURANCE executives from throughout the US and the Caribbean met in The Bahamas last month for the annual Life Insurers Committee (LIC) conference sponsored by BAF Financial.A reception hosting some 30 persons was held on August 13 at the BAF Global

BDB treats past top executives to lunch

The Bahamas Development Bank’s (BDB) newly-appointed managing director, Dave S Smith, has treated his predecessors to lunch to celebrate the institution’s 40th anniversary.The event was also attended by K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister and mi

Thursday, September 13

Nassau airport keeps watchful florence eye

Airport executives yesterday said they were monitoring Hurricane Florence “very closely”, with no inbound flight cancellations to Nassau as a result of the storm up to yesterday.“We have not had any cancellations but we are closely monitoring the sit

pi assault suspect given bail

A 44-year-old man awaiting trial for the alleged assault of a woman near a Paradise Island parking lot earlier this month has been granted bail in the Supreme Court.Romeo Cartwright, who was employed at the Atlantis resort at the time of the incident

09132018 EDITION

Thursday, 13th September, 2018.

Cruise ships detour to Bahamas during storm

IN addition to large sea swells, Hurricane Florence is set to have another impact on the Bahamas in the form of an uptick in cruise visitors, due to major cruise lines redirecting their routes out of the storm’s path.Cruise companies such as Norwegia

Beauty queen loses title over social media post

A GRAND Bahama beauty queen had to relinquish her title after a social media post caused a stir online and offended Bahamians.

Hospital operations cancelled again as temperature soars

NON-emergency operations at Princess Margaret Hospital have been cancelled again to allow urgent repairs to air-conditioning units in operating theatres.

Bahamian islands ready for effects of Hurricane Florence

OFFICIALS in North Eleuthera, Cat Island and Abaco are on high alert over Hurricane Florence.

Gunned down in front of his little girl

THE respected aide-de-camp to Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling was shot in front of his daughter during a school pickup yesterday afternoon and later died in the Princess Margaret Hospital from his injuries.

November date for Major's drug trial

DWIGHT Major’s upcoming drug trial will be heard before Deputy Chief Magistrate Subsola Swain starting November 8.The decision was made yesterday by Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt, who had the matter submitted to her court for reassignment la

Seeking to plug the skills gap

THE Ministry of Labour will analyse the skills gap issue by hosting a National Skills Symposium, an event where 100 representatives from a wide-range of sectors will create a report on the issue. The event, “Forging our Future — Assessing and Analysi

Change to UB admissions policy

THE University of The Bahamas is set to review its admissions policy to reduce dependence on the country’s tardy national examination results.UB President Dr Rodney Smith said the timeline for those results often put high school graduates “down to th

Selected Students Begin Hospital EMT Course

TWENTY promising Bahamians have embarked on a four-month course to become trained and certified emergency medical technicians and potentially land a guaranteed full-time job at Doctors Hospital.The group of 15 women and five men were chosen following

Hunt for missing man

AN Eleuthera man has been reported missing by family members.Police said Leroy Gray, 56, of Green Castle, Eleuthera was last seen walking in the settlement of Lower Bouge.He is described as being about 5’10” with a medium build and a brown complexion

Marital rape bill delayed until next year, says AG

ANY changes to the country’s Sexual Offences Act in consideration of calls to criminalise marital rape are off the table until next year as the government prioritises more pressing legislative matters, Attorney General Carl Bethel told The Tribune ye

$30,000 in grants handed out by social services

VARIOUS associations, non-governmental organisations and members of civil society were given over $30,000 in grants from the Ministry of Social Services and Community Development recently.Minister of Social Services Frankie Campbell last week present

DIANE PHILLIPS: Without a goal you never know what you’re going to get

Remember when you were little and everyone asked if you knew what you wanted to be when you grew up? You looked at them feigning respect and thinking what kind of idiot is this tall person in front of me? I’m six - my idea of the future is dinner! But as that six-year-old got older, the expectation that she would set goals became more ingrained. We grow up and long before there was such a thing as a bucket list, we were expected to set goals. What we want to be. Who we want to be. Eventually where we want to be. Even how many children we want to have.

Man accused of knife murder

A 37-year-old man was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with the stabbing death of another man at a bar earlier this month.Dino Pinto, of Yellow Elder Gardens, appeared before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt charged wit

25 new jobs - and 75 more to come at call centre

ISLAND Outsource/Itelbpo has expanded its call centre facility in Freeport which will create an additional 100 new jobs.Due to significant growth and success over its past six years in operation, the company has now moved into the Sir Albert Miller B

US man held after cocaine find

AN American man was arrested after police and American officials found $30,000 worth of suspected cocaine at the Lynden Pindling International Airport on Tuesday.

Cheap credit – culprit or bait?

A worldwide, financial disaster occurred when investment bank Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy on September 15, 2008, becoming one of the largest fatality in the 2008 financial crisis. It is the 10th anniversary of this financial crisis. I am asking is another one imminent?

The tender process

SEEMINGLY trending in official circles - Tenders need not be held in a process of legitimacy and following long established Regulations of fairness.

'Major Pain' in 'The Last Dance' on October 27

DESPITE a minor injury setback that has delayed the date of his final professional bout, Meacher “Major Pain” Major said he remains on course to deliver the best fight of his career.Major is now scheduled to square off against Martin Anderson of Jama

Hero World Challenge tees off on Nov. 29 at Albany

TGR Live and Tavistock Group announced India-based Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of two-wheelers, has extended its title sponsorship of the Hero World Challenge. The 2018 Hero World Challenge is scheduled to be played at Albany Nove

Hunter: 'The recruiting process has been a learning experience'

FOLLOWING a busy summer recruitment period, Sammy Hunter heads into his final season of prep school in Canada and his NCAA decision could be coming in early 2019.“Maybe sometime after January. My family and I are still thinking about it,” Hunter said

Chisholm and Rawhide suffer 5-4 loss to Quakes

JAZZ Chisholm and his Visalia Rawhide fell behind early in the best-of-five Single A Advanced California League championship series.The 20-year-old shortstop went 1-5 in a 5-4 loss to the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes Tuesday night at Recreation Park in Vi

Tourism 'cannot maintain' double digit growth pace

The Minister of Tourism is targeting “high single digit” growth in stopover visitors for 2019, arguing that the ten to 15 percent full-year increase he forecast for 2018 “can’t be maintained”.Dionisio D’Aguilar told Tribune Business yesterday that th

Bahamas broker fined $35k over Canada breach

A Bahamas broker/dealer has paid a $35,000 fine to settle allegations it was operating as an unregistered entity in violation of a Canadian province’s securities laws. Seton Securities International, whose principal is New Providence resident, Jay Go

Lucayan repair bill 'significantly lower' at $35m

The Government’s $35m Grand Lucayan repair bill is “significantly less” than initially feared, Tribune Business can reveal.Preliminary engineering estimates, conducted last week, found that roof repairs were the biggest issue for Freeport’s sole mega

Resort condo's 1,200 jobs to be '100% Bahamian'

The $2.8bn West End revival will be “complemented” by an adjacent resort condo project that aims to make its 1,200 construction and full-time jobs “100 percent Bahamian”.John MacDonald, principal of Grande Harbour at Old Bahama Bay, told Tribune Busi

'Brick and mortar' banks becoming less cost viable

Digital banking will drive a “natural” consolidation of commercial banks’ branch networks, the Clearing Banks Association’s (CBA) chairman warning that “brick and mortar” is becoming less viable.Gowon Bowe, pictured, told Tribune Business: “Ultimatel

Crypto advocates call for 'friendly' regulation

A Bahamian cryptocurrency advocate yesterday called for a friendly regulatory regime that would encourage Bahamian entrepreneurs to bring technology-driven solutions to market. Wayne Johnson, a corporate manager for the Zucaz Group, told Tribune Busi

'Tap in' to youth for economic success

THE Bahamas must “tap in” to the potential of its youth, a governance reformer said yesterday, with economic success “hinging” on its capacity to develop a viable workforce. Matthew Aubry, executive director for the Organisation for Responsible Gover

DPM urges GB firms to expand to nassau

The Deputy Prime Minister yesterday urged Grand Bahama businesses to consider Nassau expansion rather than just confine themselves to their home island. KP Turnquest, pictured, made his call while delivering the keynote address at the official openin

Bahamas institution names Cayman head

Sterling Global Financial, the Bahamian financial institution, has named Cory Macculloch as its managing director of its Cayman Islands operation.Mr Macculloch, pictured, will manage Sterling’s fiduciary business, and look to strategically expand its

Private island's manager bakes trail for Bahamians

The Bahamian manager of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines’ CocoCay private island is celebrating 15 years with the company, having ascended to its top onshore position in this nation.Ginea Wilson, who holds a master’s degree in hospitality management, ove

Wednesday, September 12

customers to be able to compare banks

BAHAMAS Clearing Banks Association Chairman Gowon Bowe yesterday said within the next month or two, consumers should have a clearer indication of various banking fees and be able to compare across the board.He further explained why certain banks eith

09122018 HOMER BUYERS' GUIDE

Wednesday, 12th September, 2018.

09122018 EDITION

Wednesday, 12th September, 2018.

Hospital administrator put on leave after memo row

AS Princess Margaret Hospital grapples with an ongoing “crisis” in its dialysis unit, PMH administrator Mary Lightbourne-Walker has been placed on administrative leave after the hospital faced fierce backlash over a leaked internal memo proposing a n

URCA loses power in radio case

THE attorney general has stripped the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority of the responsibility to continue criminal proceedings against ZSR Sports Radio’s operator for allegedly operating without a licence, it was revealed yesterday.

‘Oban 2’ still not agreed

THE government is still in good faith talks with the principals of Oban Energies over a proposed oil refinery in Grand Bahama and such discussions will continue until the Heads of Agreement can be amended to the satisfaction of the Minnis administration.

Union boss ‘way off’ on blaze bill

BAHAMAS Power and Light CEO Whitney Heastie last night dismissed claims recent fires at the company’s Clifton Pier Plant could cost the energy provider as much as $150m.

Marine’s killer given 27 years behind bars

A FORMER wanted suspect has been sentenced to nearly 30 years in prison for fatally shooting a Royal Bahamas Defence Force marine at a nightclub three years ago.

Banks backing down on fees

SOME local clearing banks have agreed to lower various banking administrative fees and consider changes to cheque cashing procedures following discussions with the government and other officials, Labour Minister Dion Foulkes said yesterday.

Use a cattle prod . . .

Re: STUDENT’S BEATING: POLICE TO INVESTIGATE.

Disclosures delay 'a sign of FNM failures'

THE Minnis administration’s slow pace in the prosecution of those three persons who failed to meet the March 31 public disclosures deadline, is in line with the government’s common practice of deceiving the voting public, claimed Progressive Liberal

Reassurance for staff in Grand Lucayan deal

AS the handover process for the Grand Lucayan entered a new stage yesterday, government officials assured staff that their employment will be protected.“Further information will be provided and a full statement will be given by the prime minister in

Sharks stop Truckers 11-4 in six innings in NPSA semi-finals

MANAGER Stephen ‘Bishop’ Beneby liked the way his youthful Platinum Lady Sharks played last night.

$90,000 aid handout

THE National Emergency Management Agency has now issued more than $90,000 in financial assistance to Ragged Island households in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma last year. Last month, NEMA director, Captain Stephen Russell, and

ALICIA WALLACE: Why should Serena be held to a higher standard?

When I became aware of Venus and Serena Williams, my interest in tennis increased exponentially. Andre Agassi and Stefi Graf were fine to watch, but it was exciting to see, not only girls, but black girls on the courts. They played tennis and they did it well.

$1.8m support from Japan for NEMA

THE National Emergency Management Agency has received $1.8m worth of assistance from the government of Japan to help improve the organisation’s logistics capability in the event of a major hurricane.During a media tour held yesterday, NEMA director C

Students left stranded as bus drivers 'go on strike'

BUS drivers in Eleuthera were said to be on strike yesterday, stranding students attending schools in the central and southern districts.The drivers reportedly withdrew service following allegations of nonpayment for several months; however, official

Police to complete probe into student beating

POLICE are expected to close their investigation into the alleged student beating at CH Reeves Junior High School in the coming days, The Tribune understands. Royal Bahamas Police Force press liaison officer, Superintendent Shanta Knowles yesterday

Web shops not victims

The sheer duplicitousness of some of our fellow citizens can take your breath away.

The travels and travails of Davis

The Bahamas’ thrives on its favourite pastime, gossip, bad news and I daresay “fake news”. They run to their groups and, without substantiating their juicy news, they repeat it. But what is so sad, the gullible populace believe garbage, without pause.

Volunteers ready to clean up the coast

THE 33rd annual International Coastal Cleanup Day is fast approaching and volunteers in The Bahamas will be suiting up to clean up during the two hour event this Saturday from 8am to 10am at the western end of South Beach.“Thanks to volunteers around

EDITORIAL: In America’s ‘darkness’ Trump is a symptom not the cause

IT has never been clear why US President Donald Trump appears to so despise his elegant predecessor. Perhaps it’s because Barack Obama so epitomises everything Trump isn’t. Obama was inspirationally articulate. His election caused the United States to soar. Americans have seldom felt so good about themselves in recent decades as when they chose him to lead the nation. In stark contrast, for many Americans, Trump’s shocking victory in 2016 led to a profound despair from which they have not yet recovered.

Brianna, 7, says she will be the next great Bahamian sprint sensation

MOVE over Shaunae Miller-Uibo. Seven-year-old Brianna Bootle proclaims that she will become the next great Bahamian superstar as a track and field sprint sensation.“Most people do not believe that I am an athlete, but I started running track when I w

'We have increased the pot' for Half Marathon

IN an effort to increase the awareness of distance running in the country, Bahamas Roadmasters has increased the cash purse for its annual Bahamas Half Marathon.The event, scheduled for 6am Sunday, November 18 at Arawak Cay, will see the top prize fo

Ferguson-McKenzie new assistant track and field coach

From one Bahamian connection to another, head coach Rolando ‘Lonnie’ Greene has added illustrious ‘Golden Girl’ Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie as an assistant coach on his staff at the University of Kentucky.Greene, who left Purdue University in July where

CIBC First Caribbean Walk For The Cure Bahamas all set for October 6

WALKERS from around New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco and Eleuthera will be taking part in this year’s CIBC First Caribbean Walk For The Cure Bahamas event on October 6. The Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC) will return as a bronze sponsor to hydrat

Bahamian banker’s life ban on $17m collapse

A well-known Bahamian banker has been barred for life from the securities industry over the “conflicts of interest” and client losses involved in his broker/dealer’s $17m collapse.

Chamber endorses CEO over 10-year securities barring

The Chamber of Commerce last night fully endorsed its chief executive’s performance and integrity after details of his ten-year securities industry ban and total $210,000 fines emerged.Michael Maura, the Chamber’s chairman, in a signed statement desc

Grand Lucayan: 'Many' managers want severance

A “substantial number” of the Grand Lucayan’s middle management staff want to take a severance package and leave the resort, a trade union leader said yesterday.Obie Ferguson, pictured, the Trades Union Congress’s (TUC) president, told Tribune Busine

Sebas: We require 10-12 months for 5% patron levy

Island Luck’s principal last night argued that 10-12 months is needed before web shops can successfully implement the five percent patron tax - a timeline that would cost the Government $20m.Sebas Bastian, pictured, in a September 10, 2018, affidavit

Bahamas broker: We've addressed $120k fine woes

A Bahamas-based broker/dealer yesterday said it had implemented multiple reforms to address legal breaches that resulted in a $120,000 fine from local regulators.Guy Gentile, pictured, head of Bay Street-based Swiss-America Securities, told Tribune B

Provider plans 'contactless' digital cash service launch

A mobile payment provider yesterday said it plans to roll-out a digital cash service that will allow Bahamians to make “contactless” transactions with merchants and others.Island Pay, which was founded in 2016, said its Contactless Companion Platform

'Smarter banking' drives fee declines

THE Clearing Banks Association’s (CBA) chairman yesterday said “smarter banking” by consumers, rather than “across the board” reductions, have driven recent bank fee declines.Gowon Bowe’s comments came following numerous complaints from Bahamians ove

Bank reformers: 'still much to do'

An anti-bank fee advocacy group yesterday argued there was “still much to do” to improve the industry, and expressed concern about insufficient education on the proposed credit bureau.Dr Denotrah Archer-Cartwright, lead organiser for Citizens Against

Minister making his Pointe on workforce

A Cabinet minister yesterday fired back at Opposition criticisms over the Government’s handling of labour concerns at The Pointe project, arguing that the situation was worse under the former administration.Dion Foulkes, minister of labour, hit out a

New chair for BISX-listed bank

Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) majority shareholder yesterday named Scott F Elphinstone as chairman of the BISX-listed retail banking subsidiary with effect from August 22.He replaces D Anthony Jones, who recently retired from the Board. Mr Elphinstone is a

Tuesday, September 11

09112018 EDITION

Tuesday, 11th September, 2018.

High school activists take on Disney over Lighthouse Point

THREE Central Eleuthera High School students have taken on the mantle of activism as they join scores of environmentalists in the fight to prevent Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera from being developed into a cruise port. Eleventh grade students Wadainya W

Sands: I did not send $1.9m cleaning contract to Cabinet

HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday admitted to not formally presenting Cabinet with the $1.9m contract he approved for a local cleaning company owned by the key witness in former PLP Senator Frank Smith’s criminal trial, despite conceding that

FACE TO FACE: Jacinta’s pulled by her African heritage but will bury her heart in Fox Hill

As a child, she would play school with her dolls and teach them things she had learnt. Her navel string is planted in Fox Hill and there, she grew up practicing on family and friends at home, putting them in school for fun, too. Now that she is grown and has her own school located in the heart of Fox Hill, she is taking on a new responsibility; one that requires her to champion the rights of men, women, boys and girls throughout the country.

BPL fires ‘could cost firm $150m’

BAHAMAS Power and Light Company could be facing a colossal $150m price tag to replace damaged equipment after recent fires over the weekend wiped out one engine and “compromised” infrastructure at the Clifton Pier Power Plant, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard estimated yesterday.

Davis demands: What’s going on?

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper yesterday called for an independent probe into Bahamas Power and Light, which has been saddled by controversy in recent weeks.

‘Actions on Family Islands must stop’

ATTORNEY Fred Smith yesterday warned the government that it was treading on the “thin ice of contempt” for pressing ahead with efforts to eradicate shanty towns in the Family Islands despite the pending judicial review.

No ‘white smoke’ on marijuana study team

THE government committee to review marijuana criminalisation laws in the Bahamas has not yet been appointed.

‘Stay out of the water’

WEATHER experts are continuing to warn residents of The Bahamas about the sea swells Hurricane Florence will generate this week.

Pineridge Education Centre opens in Grand bahama

THE REV Frederick McAlpine, MP for Pineridge, officially opened the Pineridge Education Centre in the Kipling Building in Grand Bahama on Monday, delivering on a promise he made to his constituents.The centre, which has an enrolment of 50, allows stu

'Fix local govt in Family Islands before bringing it to the capital'

RETIRED Abaco publisher David Ralph is asking the government to take a closer look at the successes and frustrations of the Family Island local government system before it moves ahead with its implementation in the capital.Mr Ralph, in response to re

Finance bills are 'moving closer'

THE government’s bundle of public finance management bills has advanced even closer to the Minnis administration’s intended targets, as the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) yesterday launched its introductory session on the dra

Mixed feelings for MPs on Grand Lucayan purchase

CENTREVILLE MP Reece Chipman has expressed mixed feelings about the government’s multi-million-dollar purchase of the Grand Lucayan resort in Grand Bahama.In response to a question from The Tribune, he said while he understands the need to jump star

Surgery resumes at hospital

SURGERY schedules at the Princess Margaret Hospital have reconvened as scheduled maintenance of the air-conditioning systems in the operating theatres have concluded.A statement from the Public Hospitals Authority noted the routine maintenance proced

‘Long distance king’ Oneil Williams wins 13-mile exhibition

Oneil Williams proved why he is the newly minted Bahamas men’s national marathon record holder.

Burrows Sr calling on government to clarify cost of national baseball stadium

ALTHOUGH there were some discrepancies on the huge price tag for the completion of the new Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium, former Senator Greg Burrows Sr is calling on government to clarify the vast increase of the construction.

Putting a price tag on beauty

Drugstore vs high-end makeup

Magazine ads, TV commercials, and let’s not forget all the YouTube beauty gurus, will have you believing that high-end make-up is a must if you want to look your best. So you end up visiting expensive stores, either in person or on the internet, and “blowing a bag” on only a handful of cosmetic products.

Teen accused of murder

A 17-year-old boy was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday accused of murdering a man earlier this year.

Murder conviction quashed - and judge sends case back for retrial

THE Court of Appeal has quashed the murder conviction of a man sentenced to life in prison for murdering a cashier at his family’s food store in the course of an armed robbery, and has ordered a retrial.In an 18-page ruling published to the court’s w

Finally, athletes get their subvention cheques

AS proclaimed last week by Tim Munnings, the director of sports in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, athletes on subventions have received their payments over the weekend.

Jazz Chisholm and Rawhide in championship

JAZZ Chisholm and his Visalia Rawhide are on their way to the the California League Championship series in the MiLB’s Single A-Advanced California League.

Lucius Fox and Biscuits eliminated in semi-finals

LUCIUS Fox’s debut season in Double A baseball came to an end after his Montgomery Biscuits were eliminated in a decisive game five of the Southern League semi-finals.

PRESS BOX: Cowboy Nation, first let’s get rid of Linehan’s lacklustre offence ASAP

ATTENTION Dallas Cowboys fans here in the Bahamas, we can’t be delusional any longer, at present we are a bad football team.

A flowering talent

FLOWERS are wonders of nature. They come in all shapes, colours and sizes, and many of them are breathtakingly beautiful. They only have one major flaw: once cut, they don't keep for very long.

Bahamian blogger lands writing gigs with Forbes, XONecole

Local blogger Ianthia Smith is continuing to take her writing to the world after securing a freelance gig as a contributing writer for two popular online sites – Forbes Travel Guide and lifestyle brand XONecole.

Honour in marriage – A shared responsibility

For most men, honour and respect are huge elements in their relationship with women. It’s usually the top consideration, with sex coming in at a close second place. Sadly, both are the most intentionally withheld elements—even in so-called Christian marriages. Many of the marital challenges couples experience today are rooted in the lack of honour and respect.

What’s your ‘why’?

Be aware of your Prostate

The prostate gland is a walnut-sized organ underneath the bladder that plays an important role in male fertility.

Former javelin champion is drawn to a new therapy

After his Olympic dreams were shattered by an injury that continued to cause him chronic pain, former javelin champion Henry A Butler turned to a new, alternative form of treatment: magnetic field therapy.

Medical marijuana in the spotlight

Rotary symposium to look at legalisation questions and more

TWO of Nassau’s Rotary Clubs are teaming up to educate the general public on medical marijuana with a special symposium to be held this week.

Spaceport Colorado sells the future

There was a time we would have marveled at flying to 380,000 feet to experience the curvature of the Earth, weightlessness, and the darkness of space.

Using AI, immersion to teach students Chinese

To learn Chinese in this room, talk to the floating panda head.

Tech Talk

• NASA technology designed to protect spacecraft from heat and pressure when entering a planet’s atmosphere will be launched from Spaceport America in New Mexico as part of testing.

'Marginalise unions and you finish middle class'

The Government and private sector will eliminate the middle class “bedrock of society” if they “continue to marginalise and bypass” trade unions, a senior leader warned yesterday.Bernard Evans, the National Congress of Trade Unions (NCTU) president,

'Move quickly' or lose cannabis' medical potential

THE Bahamas could attract “hundreds of millions” of dollars as a medical cannabis “hub”, a Jamaican scientist said yesterday, urging the Government to “move quickly” or lose out.Dr Henry Lowe, a renowned Jamaican nutraceutical scientist and founder o

No bad WTO deal must be 'order of day'

The Government’s pledge that it will not accept a “bad WTO deal” must be “the order of the day”, the Chamber of Commerce’s top trade executive urged yesterday.Darron Pickstock, who heads the Chamber’s trade and investment division, told Tribune Busin

'Seamless migration' for Grand Lucayan

The Government is pledging a “seamless migration” in a bid to reassure 400 “very anxious and concerned” Grand Lucayan workers prior to taking over the resort’s operations today.Well-placed Tribune Business sources, speaking on condition of anonymity,

Chamber: ‘Think again’ on new BPL plant at Clifton

Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) would be “well advised to consider” if Clifton Pier is suitable for both its current and proposed new power plants, the Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive urged yesterday.

New legislation to 'codify' quarterly fiscal reporting

The Government’s plans to publish quarterly fiscal reports will be “codified” in new laws to overhaul the public sector’s financial management, the deputy prime minister said yesterday. K Peter Turnquest told a seminar for senior civil servants that

Govt urged to boost car rental regulation

Auto repairers yesterday urged the Government to intensify regulation of the car rental business, amid calls for the removal of alleged “foreign elements” in its ownership.Dwaine Scavella, president of the Bahamas Auto Repair Association, told Tribun

Monday, September 10

09102018 EDITION

Monday, 10th September, 2018.

INSIGHT: Enough of the blame game - it’s time to find solutions

IF I had a dollar for every time I heard a member of the government blame the previous administration for the state of affairs in the country, I would fare quite fine in our current economic climate.

Beware sea swells from Florence

THE Bahamas currently faces no immediate threat from Hurricanes Florence and Helene and Tropical Storm Isaac, however chief meteorologist Basil Dean told The Tribune yesterday the country could be affected by very large sea swells generated by Floren

INSIGHT: Facts and fiction on life at the dump

A SOCIAL media post has sparked a war of words between senior personnel in the two most recent management units tasked with oversight of the New Providence Landfill; each side staking their claim as the “group that made the difference”.

Nygard’s kicked in the groyne

THE government has given Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard less than a month to remove barriers he built out into the sea near his Lyford Cay home.

Abaco – 900 shanty town homes set to be razed

THE government is tasked with finding alternative housing for nearly 1,000 households in shanty towns across Abaco as the Shanty Town Action Task Force (SATF) recommits to the self-imposed deadline of clearing unregulated communities on that island on or before July 31,2019.

Week-long power cuts as second blaze hits BPL

NEW Providence can expect load shedding for the rest of the week after a fire caused unprecedented damage at Bahamas Power and Light’s Clifton Pier station over the weekend - while a second blaze broke out last night at the same location.

‘Throw it out’: Smith’s team to seek dismissal of corruption case

ATTORNEYS for former PLP Senator Frank Smith on Saturday foreshadowed accusations of perverting the course of justice against the Crown after the prosecution conceded that a key component of its evidence, the call logs between the accused and its key witness, are flawed and thus warranted being recently abandoned by the prosecution.

Medicial marijuana event to be landmark for nation

THE Medical Association of The Bahamas is hosting the country’s first medical marijuana symposium on Wednesday.In July, MAB president Dr Marcus Cooper told The Tribune there had not been widespread consultation with its membership on the subject of m

UN and Haiti 'acknowledge' govt efforts to erase shanty towns

THE government’s plan to eradicate all shanty town communities in the country has been acknowledged by both the United Nations and the Haitian government, according to Labour Minister Dion Foulkes. Mr Foulkes, head of the Shanty Town Action Task Force

Man's body found in car

THE BODY of a man was found in a car off Gladstone Road on Friday.Police are waiting for an autopsy report to confirm the cause of death, but on Friday said foul play was not suspected at this time.According to reports, the body was found after polic

EDITORIAL: It is now time for Bahamians to unite for country, not self

IT should come as no surprise that many Bahamians find the PLP’s criticism of public healthcare somewhat disingenuous given their record of unconscionable neglect of the country’s health institutions. It also causes the public to wonder, in view of their record, what all their fuss is now about as they claim contracts are being awarded to party faithful at BEC/BPL.

Two dead in weekend violence

TWO murders, including a drive-by shooting and a stabbing incident, occurred on the weekend. One man was killed in a stabbing incident at a bar on Tonique Williams Darling Highway shortly after 1am on Saturday. A second man was also a victim of the a

Groups are wary of Disney plan in future

THE Bahamas National Trust and One Eleuthera Foundation are warning that although Disney Cruise Lines has said it has no immediate plans to block local access to the Lighthouse Point beach, “experience has taught” that such plans can be changed as de

WORLD VIEW: The Privy Council and its history with slavery

RACISM was the bedrock of European colonialism in the Caribbean. The subjugation, oppression and exploitation of African people as “sub-human” was justified by colonial powers based on race and colour.

INSIGHT: Let’s open the door and grasp this amazing opportunity

You can’t fit a square peg in a round hole, the old saying goes. The same is true for new ideas.

Looting the coffers

Your Editorial on September 7, 2018, was amazingly perceptive and insightful.

Unseemly behaviour

Canon Sebastian Campbell, who advocated for many years for an indigenous national honours system, stated that he believed the refusal of former Prime Ministers Hubert Ingraham and Perry Christie to accept the new Bahamian honour, Order of the Nation, was an embarrassment to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis.

Mr Bannister

DISGUSTED that Minister Bannister should comment on the fired Chair of BP&L in the manner he did especially as Government as the employer had not complied with the basic of sending Ms Osborne a letter explaining she was fired. Government is not above the Labour Laws.

Miller-Uibo, Thomas and Team Americas win Continental Cup

The Bahamian combo of Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Donald Thomas won all of the events, including two relays, to help the Americas team dethrone Europe at the International Amateur Athletic Federation’s Continental Cup Ostrava 2018.

NPSA FINALS: Wildcats, Hitmen to defend titles

THE Sunshine Auto Wildcats and the C&S Hitmen are back in this year’s finals to defend their respective ladies and men’s titles in the New Providence Softball Association.

NCAA football: Bahamian players in spotlight

NCAA football moved into week two and several Bahamian players saw their teams move to 2-0 on the season.

Young’s best season in minor leagues ends

HIS best season thus far in the minor leagues came to an end for Chavez Young and his Lansing Lugnuts in the Class A-Advanced playoffs.

Food store VAT exceeds forecast by double digits

Food stores’ early 12 percent VAT collections have exceeded predictions by double digits, with Super Value’s owner admitting: “We were all wrong about breadbasket sales.”Rupert Roberts told Tribune Business that VAT “zero rated” food products were up

Top negotiator: WTO 'won't hurt' this economy

The Bahamas’ newly-appointed chief negotiator yesterday pledged this nation “cannot join the WTO on terms that injure” its economy or any major industries.Zhivargo Laing, pictured, who replaces Raymond Winder, sought to reassure the private sector an

'Go no further than have to' over EU Bill

The financial services industry wants the Bahamas “not to go further than it has to” in meeting Europe’s anti-tax avoidance demands and averting a potential ‘blacklisting’.Michael Paton, a former Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) chairman, told

Cruise port proposal ditches 'cookie cutter'

A 50-strong Bahamian investor group says its “reimagination” of Nassau’s cruise port and downtown will fulfill demands “that we move away from cookie cutter proposals with no sense of place”.Gerald Strachan, founder, president and chief executive of

Benchmark crypto tie-up 'marriage made in heaven'

Benchmark (Bahamas) last night hailed its newly-formed three-way alliance as “a marriage made in heaven” that will help position this nation as a leader on blockchain and crypto currency.Julian Brown, the BISX-listed firm’s chief executive and presid

Cigar enthusiasts enjoy five-day Bahamas blow

A Houston-based group enjoyed a five-day stay in The Bahamas where they were able to indulge their passion for fine cigars and the associated lifestyle with help from Graycliff.The visit by the Westside Smokers club came after its president, Jory Ten

CIBC names new top Caribbean executive

CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank has named Colette Delaney as its new regional chief executive from November 1, 2018, succeeding the retiring Gary Brown.Ms Delaney has more than 30 years’ banking experience, having started her career with CIBC

Comfort Suites adds value with excursion

Comfort Suites is offering a “book now and receive a free private island excursion for two” special that gives its guests a full-day beach excursion to Sandy Toes private island.The offer is intended to enhance the value of the 223-room Paradise Isla

Saturday, September 8

UPDATE: Another fire at BPL’s Clifton Pier facility

This was the scene at Bahamas Power and Light’s Clifton Pier facility after a fire broke out at around 11.30pm on Friday night.

Police arrest man carrying over $47,000

A man with a substantial sum of US currency in his possession was arrested in Grand Bahama on Friday.

One dead, one injured after stabbing at bar

A stabbing incident at a bar on Tonique Williams Darling Highway early on Saturday has left one man dead and another in serious condition in hospital.

Friday, September 7

Police seeking help finding missing man

Police have issued a missing persons bulletin for Kirkland Franks – last known address in Freeport, Grand Bahama.

09072018 WEEKEND

Friday, 7th September, 2018.

Woman, 60, held after drugs found in plate of food at Department of Corrections

A 60-year-old woman is in custody after officials at the Bahamas Department of Corrections uncovered a quantity of drugs hidden in a plate of food she presented to be taken into the facility.

Teachers, students ordered to return to AF Adderley on Monday

TEACHERS and students have been ordered to return to the A.F. Adderley Junior High School campus on Monday amidst union concerns over the safety of ongoing construction.

Body found in car off Gladstone Road

THE BODY of a man was found in a car off Gladstone Road on Friday.

PM pays tribute as Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs laid to rest

PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis praised Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs as a jurist who “demonstrated a balanced and even temperament” as he was laid to rest on Friday.

PMH set for major renovations

THE PUBLIC Hospitals Authority yesterday announced major renovations to prepare for the installation of state of the art equipment at the Princess Margaret Hospital.

One dead after double shooting in Fox Hill

ONE man is dead following a double shooting at Dorsett Street, Fox Hill, Friday morning.

Sands’ links with key trial witness

HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands yesterday admitted that the key prosecution witness in former PLP Senator Frank Smith’s criminal trial contributed financially to his political campaign in the lead-up to the 2017 general elections.

Student’s beating: Police to investigate

POLICE and the Ministry of Education are investigating an incident at a public school where a boy was allegedly beaten by an administrator.

Vital Ragged Island facilities to be rebuilt

NATIONAL Emergency Management Agency Director Captain Stephen Russell yesterday said the Ministry of Works should shortly be approving plans to rebuild key government infrastructure such as a police station, clinic, and island administrator’s office in Ragged Island.

Doctors in ultimatum to health authority

SENIOR doctors in the public healthcare system are planning to obtain a strike certificate after failing to finalise an industrial agreement with the Public Hospitals Authority despite more than two years of negotiations.

A great loss to the legal fraternity

THE legal fraternity has suffered a great loss of a man who contributed “mightily” to the profession in both private practice and public service, Official Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday of Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs.Isaacs’ b

American trio fined for failure to disclose

THREE American men were each ordered to pay $1,000 in fines or face three months in prison for failing to declare over $50,000 in cash to US Border Patrol agents earlier this week.Additionally, Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain ordered the $

Robot boat sails into history by finishing Atlantic crossing

All summer, the small boat drifted steadily eastward across the churning North Atlantic until it neared the Irish coast, where it made history by becoming the first unmanned sailboat to cross the Atlantic.

Davis: Foulkes failing people over The Pointe

WITH the spotlight again shining on the labour force complement at The Pointe, Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis accused Labour Minister Dion Foulkes of being “delinquent” in his oversight of the project.Mr Davis said the minister

A COMIC'S VIEW: Lucayan and lawyers

THROUGHOUT my lengthy comedy career, I’ve learnt one thing, a good joke and laugh catches every Bahamian’s attention.

Young, Fox 0-4 at plate in Game 1 loss

IT was a disappointing start to the postseason for Lucius Fox and Chavez Young as both of their respective clubs suffered game one losses in their first round series.

Shell LNG deal more of the same

THE incredible editorial of today Thursday, September 6th, insisting Government rushes to sign the Shell LNG deal.

'Minister misled over stadium concerns'

FREEDOM Farm Baseball League founder Greg Burrows yesterday expressed concern that Public Works Minister Desmond Bannister was being led in the wrong direction over the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.Mr Burrows, a former PLP senator, called Mr Bannis

'Inaction to blame for stadium's rising bill'

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis blamed the Minnis administration’s inaction on construction of the controversial Andre Rollins Baseball Stadium for the project’s skyrocketing cost.While he did admit work stopped on the project a

Wellness Day to be observed in GB

GRAND Bahama Health Services is hosting two major events to highlight Caribbean Wellness Day, which is observed each year on the second Saturday of September. Valeria Burrows, assistant director of communications, said that a health fair is scheduled

Seven arrests after drug and gun finds

SEVEN people were arrested in the Freeport area by police for drug, firearm, and ammunition possession.ASP Terecita Pinder reported that officers of the Drug Enforcement Unit and Rapid Response Unit conducted a joint operation called “Black Out” on W

Town planners say no to Soldier Road cemetery

THE Town Planning Committee has rejected an application to develop a cemetery in the Soldier Road area after the proposal was deemed to be “incompatible land use” for the community, committee chair Diane Holowesko Dunkley told The Tribune yesterday.

EDITORIAL: So far, so good but we still need to be alert

WITH Tropical Storm Gordon making landfall in countries on the Gulf of Mexico after passing south of The Bahamas last week, together with news of further tropical systems forming in the Atlantic, everyone in this country should be aware we are now in the middle of the most dangerous period of the hurricane season. Officially, it is from the beginning of June to the end of November but the incidence of storms is usually highest during the months of August, September and October.

Process for cruise port scheme

Re:Flawed process -RFP for management of the cruise port and APD group involvement

Pompey Museum

THE Pompey Museum of Slavery and emancipation was not a beach bar.

Setting the record straight on a man who led a nation of slaves to freedom

Crowds cheered as local lawmakers on August 18 unveiled a street sign showing that Rogers Avenue in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn would now be called Jean-Jacques Dessalines Boulevard, after a Haitian slave turned revolutionary general.

Hitmen in driver’s seat

The C&S Hitmen moved one game closer to defending their men’s title in the New Providence Softball Association.

‘There was a delay in the subvention payments this year’

AFTER not receiving their subvention cheques for almost two months, Tim Munnings, the director of sports, confirmed that the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture is in the process of meeting its obligations to the athletes, not just in track and field, but the eight other disciplines.

Rockets return to Bahamas for mini-camp

THE Houston Rockets have returned to the Bahamas and the Baha Mar resort for another mini-camp as they prepare for the upcoming 2018-19 National Basketball Association campaign.

THE FINISH LINE: IAAF’s Diamond League Finals ‘truly two beauties to behold’

THE International Amateur Athletic Federation continues to broaden its horizons in providing more innovative events for their athletes to compete in around the world.

Association names the CARIFTA Triathlon and Aquathlon Team

THE Bahamas Triathlon Association has named its 2018 CARIFTA Triathlon and Aquathlon Team that is expected to compete in Tobago September 29-30.

Airbus Perlan Mission II glider reaches 76,000 feet to break own altitude record

For the third time in a week, Airbus Perlan Mission II has set a new world altitude record for a glider, this time soaring the engineless Perlan 2 to 76,124 feet, in the process collecting vital data on flight performance, weather and the atmosphere.

TECH TALK 09052018

• A key opponent of high-tech, automated weapons known as “killer robots” is blaming countries like the US and Russia for blocking consensus at a UN-backed conference, where most countries wanted to ensure that humans stay at the controls of lethal machines.

A 'national disaster' for jobs and growth

The 2018 decline in already-troubling education standards “is a national disaster” for Bahamian economic growth and employment prospects, governance reformers warned yesterday.Robert Myers, the Organisation for Responsible Governance’s (ORG) principa

Bahamian group in cruise port proposal

A 50-plus Bahamian investor group has submitted a proposal to take over management of Nassau’s cruise port as part of wider plans to grow the capital’s tourism industry.The group, which first proposed a “cultural village” development for Arawak Cay u

'Slight delay' for Grand Lucayan deal closure

Fears that the Government’s $65m Grand Lucayan purchase is illegal were yesterday slammed as “inane” and “irrelevant”, although the deal’s closing may be “slightly delayed”.Michael Scott, chairman of Lucayan Renewal Holdings, the special purpose vehi

'Unshackle' 10% of NIB assets for SMEs

The Opposition’s deputy leader has called for an “orderly unshackling” that will allow the National Insurance Board (NIB) to allocate ten percent of its assets to financing “start-up” businesses.Chester Cooper, pictured, in an address to the Progress

Moving renewable energy ‘beyond talk’

Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) production of an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) is “absolutely necessary” to move increased renewable energy usage “beyond talk”, a provider is arguing.

GB crypto firm to brief on ICO offer

A Grand Bahama-based cypto-asset firm plans to brief Nassau residents today on its initial coin offering (ICO), which is scheduled to take place in 42 days.VirSymCoin (VSC) will unveil its but crypto-enthusiasts in New Providence won’t have to wait t

BahamaHost evolves for tourism dynamics

For the past 40 years, BahamaHost has been the Ministry of Tourism’s signature training programme for tourism and hospitality in our country.Nearly 50,000 Bahamians have graduated through the programme, now holding the title of BahamaHost certified p

BISX lists latest investment fund

The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) yesterday revealed it has added another listing to its $4.4bn mutual fund listing tier.The exchange announced that the Fitpart Dynamic Allocation Professional Fund has completed its listing process

Business Outlook teams with the inland revenue

The Bahamas Business Outlook (BBO) series is rolling-out an “Ease of Doing Business” workshop, which will be conducted by Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) officials, at all seven conferences this year.The workshop is a partnership between Outlook o

Thursday, September 6

Sandilands staff pray for church, community assistance

Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre officially launched its Sandilands Month of activities on Tuesday at St Anselm’s Roman Catholic Church under the theme “Advancing Physical and Mental Health through Community Integration”. The service was officiated b

Meditation: Praying about relationships

How would you answer the following questions that were posed at a seminar on marriage and family life? Relationships1. As a committed Christian is it wrong to be in a relationship with a non-believer?As we pray about our relationships, we seek God’s

Do you know the creator's name?

Do you know the creators name? Most of us would say, “Yes, His name is the Lord God”.Did you know that the Bible indicates that “lord” and “god” are titles and not names? 1 Corinthians 8:5 says there be gods many and lords many, because anything we w

Bahamian gospel singer to perform at Atlanta awards ceremony

Her upcoming performance at the Prayze Factor People’s Choice Award in Atlanta will not be Adrianna Munnings’ first rodeo.The gospel artist has travelled far and wide both to share her music ministry. But what is special about this event in Georgia i

Believers have spiritual breakthroughs at 'Woman at the Well 2018'

“God exceeded my expectations” was the verdict of Felicia Archer following the conclusion of this year’s Woman at the Well conference.Held for three nights last week under the theme “Breaking the Cycle”, the event featured special appearances by Prop

11 ways to motivate for better performance

1. Keep your promises: people are motivated by people they trust. Never ever be late to your own meetings2. Give power to the other person: contract with your people, meaning have agreements, ask questions, because questions honour the employee’s tho

09062018 EDITION

Thursday, 6th September, 2018.

'Clear my brother's name' after police alert

THE sister of a man relatives claim was mistakenly sought by police for a crime in which he says he was not involved wants the Royal Bahamas Police Force to publicly clear her brother of any wrongdoing before “the streets take him”.Jayde Rahming-Souf

'Move students during school construction'

BAHAMAS Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson yesterday called on the government to relocate eight and ninth graders at A F Adderley High School due to ongoing construction.Mrs Wilson told The Tribune she met with officials yesterday to discuss

Lawyer says resort's purchase unlawful

ATTORNEY Maurice Glinton, QC, believes the Minnis administration’s purchase of the Grand Lucayan resort is unlawful.In a recently written opinion piece, he described the purchase as evidence that the government’s “decision-making process (or lack the

Sands takes the stand

HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands took the stand yesterday in former PLP Senator Frank Smith’s criminal trial, but his testimony was cut short after the defence took exception to Dr Sands’ revelation that there have been previous occasions where the minister of health approved contracts without the approval of the Public Hospitals Authority’s board of directors.

PMH halts surgeries after ACs break down

ELECTIVE surgeries at Princess Margaret Hospital have been postponed this week due to nonfunctioning air-conditioning units, the Public Hospitals Authority confirmed yesterday.

Stadium costs soared to $43m

The Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium is a waste of taxpayer money that will “never pay for itself”, a Cabinet minister admitted yesterday, amid steps taken to prevent a near-tripling of costs.

Lucayan valuation only now underway

AS the Minnis administration aims to complete the purchase of the Grand Lucayan resort in Grand Bahama next week, The Tribune was told officials are in the process of having the resort reappraised for reselling purposes.

Probe into union boss Wilson ‘far from over’

THE string of allegations levelled against President of the Bahamas Union of Teachers Belinda Wilson over her conduct at the helm of the organisation have not dissipated, according to its Secretary General John Musgrove.

Issues facing The Bahamas

PHA charges for handicapped persons and transport of patients to Dialysis Centre… The memo was true as yesterday was Wednesday, August 29….the charges would have started September 2nd.

US trio held after $50,000 undeclared

THREE American men were arrested on Tuesday after they allegedly failed to declare more than $50,000 in US currency, police said. The men, ages 37, 42 and 46, were arrested shortly after 4pm. Police said the trio presented themselves to a US Border

Foundation snubs Eleuthera plan

ONE Eleuthera Foundation President and CEO Shaun Ingraham yesterday warned an exclusive development at Lighthouse Point will cut circulation of ground traffic into South Eleuthera, causing further economic harm to a community already “suffering enoug

EDITORIAL: It is time to finalise Shell NA agreement with BPL

AN IMF working paper, released in March, 2016, noted that about 25 per cent of Bahamian companies identified energy costs as a major impediment to business.

Value the nurses

PART of a wealthy family, Florence Nightingale defied the expectations of the time and pursued what she saw as her God-given calling of nursing.

Our Lucaya

I recall before the election, May 2-17 the PLP were touting that a Paul Wynn had a deal on Lucaya and they would sign…a whole year later nothing happened and Wynn walked from the deal and Hutchinson simply told Government we would close in September if no sale so now we are buying the hotel.

Technical institute offers vocational certificates

RUTHNELL Technical Institute, formerly Total Education Centre, is now officially registered with the National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of the Bahamas to offer technical certificate programmes in nine vocational fields.The institute intro

Bahamians chosen for young leaders scheme

THE US Embassy Nassau is pleased to announce the three Bahamians selected to participate in the prestigious Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI).The US State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs funds the initiative, whi

Funeral details for chief justice

A STATE funeral for Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs will be held on Friday at Christ Church Cathedral beginning at 11am. Isaacs’ body will lie in state at the Supreme Court in Bank Lane today. The public can view his body beginning at noon until the fun

Four accused after $400,000 marijuana seizure

FOUR men, between the ages of 54 and 30, appeared in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with being caught on Sunday with nearly $400,000 worth of marijuana while on a boat in waters just south of New Providence over the weekend.Harrison Smith, Le

Bridgewater named tournament MVP

JUNIOR national team standout Dominick Bridgewater is making his transition toward professional basketball and dominated his experience on the court in France.

Bennet Davis announces his retirement

National team forward Bennet Davis has announced that he will retire from professional basketball after an 11-year career which spanned 10 countries across the globe.

Jones looks forward to star-studded Euroleague roster this offseason

DESPITE a disappointing conclusion to the WNBA season, Jonquel Jones has a star-studded Euroleague roster to look forward to this offseason.

Gabriel Sastre Jr takes his water polo game to Argentina

THE Bahamas Mantas Water Polo Club continues to create new milestone opportunities for its student-athletes as their international network expands.

EU tax legislation to House by 19th

The Government believes it has “agreed the main part” of legislation to address Europe’s tax demands with the private sector, and plans to bring the bill to Parliament on September 19.KP Turnquest, pictured, deputy prime minister, told Tribune Busine

Board battle hits Sports Authority

The National Sports Authority (NSA) has become the latest government board to be hit with allegations of infighting and “dysfunction”, with the new general manager unable to take office.Multiple Tribune Business sources, speaking on condition of anon

Annual cruise drop of 5-10% without Nassau upgrade

The Bahamas has just “two to three years” to upgrade Nassau’s cruise port before passenger volumes start falling by five to ten percent annually, a major global operator warned yesterday.A spokesman for Global Port Holdings, which partnered with two

AML Foods in deal over one Carl's Jr site

AML Foods has agreed to sell the equipment, and assign the lease, for its former Carl’s Jr site on Carmichael Road as it winds down a unit that generated a near-$1.5m loss in its final year.The BISX-listed food retail and franchise group, in its annu

Royal Fidelity returnee praises 'exponential growth' on return

A third-time RoyalFidelity Merchant Bank and Trust executive says its business has “grown exponentially” since he was last there, as the institution celebrates its 20th anniversary.David Slatter, assistant vice-president with responsibility for Royal

ART OF GRAPHIX: Designing by its true definitions

Getting thrown into the world of graphic design can sometimes feel like learning a new language. There are countless technical terms that can seem perplexing at the best of times but, if you are confused, never fear as words are evolving each day. S

Bahamas gains boost at family convention

The Bahamas gained significant exposure at the weekend from the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation sponsoring a pool party at a major Orlando-based family expo and convention.The “Party in da Backyard”, held at the pool of the Gaylord Palms Resort, was

Wednesday, September 5

09032018 EDITION

Monday, 3rd September, 2018.

09052018 EDITION

Wednesday, 5th September, 2018.

Shanty task force broken up as legal wrangles continue

THE government’s Shanty Town Action Task Force has been dissolved in New Providence, according to Labour Minister Dion Foulkes, who told reporters outside Cabinet yesterday his team was still fulfilling its mandate in the Family Islands.Mr Foulkes sa

Sands due in court to explain contract

HEALTH Minister Dr Duane Sands is expected to testify in court today about his decisions regarding the approval of a $1.8m contract to the company owned by the virtual complainant in former Progressive Liberal Party Senator Frank Smith’s criminal tri

Investigators quiz blaze victims in US

INVESTIGATORS have travelled to the United States to interview victims of the June Four C’s boat explosion in Exuma that left a woman dead and two others with amputated limbs, according to press secretary Anthony Newbold.He could not give more detail

Pupils 'at risk' as repairs continue in school term

THE health and safety of thousands of students were put at risk this week when schools still in need of repairs received children, Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday.He said this was a face saving move by the governm

No team picked yet for promised BPL probe

MORE than two weeks after the former board of Bahamas Power and Light disintegrated, details remain scarce about the investigation Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis pledged to launch into the board’s meltdown.“He hasn’t appointed a team,” press secreta

DOUBLE TALK: Turns out Pointe workers clause has two meanings

THE clause in the heads of agreement struck between Pointe developers and the previous Christie administration outlining the ratio of Bahamian to foreign labour has two interpretations, according to Labour Minister Dion Foulkes yesterday.

Lawyers’ departure ‘shows chaos in AG’s office’

PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said it is “alarming” high profile attorneys severed ties with the Attorney General’s Office over the shanty town issue, as he suggested the move could have been prompted by a “rudderless” and “chaotic” state of affairs at the office.

Teachers left in limbo with no schools

DESPITE the fact that a significant number of new teachers are still awaiting confirmation, three days into the new school year the ongoing teacher shortage continues to be an issue affecting classrooms nationwide, Bahamas Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson said yesterday.

‘What was Lucayan valued at?’

OFFICIAL Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday demanded the government make public an appraisal done on the Grand Lucayan, telling supporters the Minnis administration may be spending far more than the resort’s estimated value.

Into the deep

Researchers at the Caper Eleuthera Institute (CEI) have been mapping the deep waters at the northern end of the Bahamian archipelago for many years, but their efforts received a boost recently when they partnered with state-of-the-art research vessel

RESULTS: Bahamas Cycling Federation’s National Time Trial Championship

THE BAHAMAS Cycling Federation hosted its National Time Trial Championship (22 miles) out west over the weekend.

Magistrate exits drug trial

MAGISTRATE Samuel McKinney recused himself yesterday from the upcoming drug trial of Dwight Major, referring the matter to Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt for reassignment.Ian Cargill, Major’s attorney, in an application early last month, sugg

A classic back to school letter

As my children returned to school this fall term after a long and eventful summer, I could not help but reflect upon the sentiments expressed in a letter that has been attributed to US President Abraham Lincoln.

Buyers for every lot in first wave of housing scheme

THE government has identified buyers for all of its low-cost lots on sale in Sunset Close, according to press secretary Anthony Newbold.

Man guilty of laundering money in $66,000 scheme

A 23-year-old man yesterday pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering in connection with a $66,000 theft scheme carried out by his girlfriend over a seven-month period earlier this year.L’Shabazz Forbes, who stood before Magistrate Samuel McKin

Suspect denies PI assault

A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after he pleaded not guilty to an assault charge in connection with an alleged attack on a woman at a Paradise Island parking lot over the weekend.Romeo Cartwright, 44, of King Fish Road appeared before Magistra

ALICIA WALLACE: The ‘now’ generation? More like later, if ever

Home ownership is not easy. It is no walk in the park to look for, purchase, build, or maintain a house. Anyone who has gone through the process, or even attempted it, knows this and has anecdotes to share. There is nothing simple about it.

NAD, it’s a simple answer

NAD overjoyed with the passenger count for July – why?

Team Bahamas all set for League of Nations

After watching the success of its beach soccer programme take off over the last few years, the Bahamas Football Association will now switch its attention back to its once vibrant grass soccer programme.

A Day on The Links for 1st Generation UB students

Inaugural President’s Golf Classic and Spa Day at Baha Mar

UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas (UB) has forged a partnership with the Baha Mar Resort Foundation to host a day on the links to raise funding for first-generation university students and grow the university’s endowment as it strengthens connections with alumni, donors and friends. The University Endowment is to realise the vision of the University of The Bahamas for all time in the future.

Vincent Strachan elected president of BABF again

FOR the second time in four months, Vincent Strachan has been elected as the new president of the Bahamas Amateur Boxing Federation. This time, he did it with the International Boxing Association (AIBA) representative present.

Trust eyes 10 PPPs for National Parks

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) yesterday revealed it is “exploring” ten ventures with private entities involving the country’s National Parks, but pledged: “Nothing unethical will be allowed.”Eric Carey, pictured, the BNT’s executive director, conf

Cruise Group pledges 1.3m visitor rise

A Bahamian majority-owned group plans to transform Nassau’s cruise port into a “must call destination” that will attract an extra 1.3m visitors annually by 2028.The Global Ports Holding-led group, in their “unsolicited” July 2018 offer to the Governm

Consultants ‘on hold’ amid BPL union uproar

Foreign consultants hired by Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) were last night put “on hold” amid union uproar over a project “critical” to ensuring Nassau residents have reliable power in 2019.

Fiscal Responsibility must 'top the docket' when House returns

The Government and governance reformers were yesterday in agreement that passage of the Fiscal Responsibility Bill must be “top of the docket” when Parliament resumes on September 19.KP Turnquest, pictured, deputy prime minister, told Tribune Busine

$18.8m credit shrink exposes weakness

Persistent private sector and consumer weakness was further exposed by July’s $18.8m credit contraction, with total banking sector loan arrears also slightly increasing to $835mThe Central Bank, in its July economic update, said: “Private sector cred

CIBC branch to serve only Baha Mar staff

CIBC FirstCaribbean has expanded its branch network with a location that will only serve Baha Mar’s 5,000-strong workforce.The new branch, which is not accessible by the general public, features a sales and self-service centre as well as two full-ser

'Minimal' fall resort' closures on abaco

Ministry of Tourism officials yesterday said there will be “minimal” hotel closures in Abaco this fall due to the increase in stopover visitors to The Bahamas.Wynsome Ferguson, manager of the Abaco Tourist Office, said all hotels in Marsh Harbour and

Tuesday, September 4

09042018 EDITION

Tuesday, 4th September, 2018.

Shot dead at wheel of his car

A MAN believed to be in his 60s was found dead in his car Tuesday suffering from a gunshot wound.

Smith's defence: We want Sands

THE Frank Smith bribery trial resumed yesterday with his lead attorney Keith Knight, QC, giving notice to prosecutors of his need to cross-examine Health Minister Dr Duane Sands before requiring the prosecution’s lead witness, Barbara Hanna to return

Union chief claims BPL hired 50 foreign workers

BAHAMAS Electrical Workers Union President Paul Maynard claimed yesterday that around 50 non-Bahamians were set to be brought on at Bahamas Power and Light in the aftermath of 314 workers receiving voluntary separation packages.Expressing his anger a

FACE TO FACE: I never set out to be the chairman of any board. I just always tried to do my best

She grew up at the junction of honesty and integrity road – literally. Her childhood home served as a refuge for many. Her mother taught her how to give unselfishly and to consider the needs of others. She did well in school and carved out a successful career in accounting and finance. Yet today, she has become the focus of a controversy that is playing out nationally without most not really knowing who she is or what she is all about.

Woman attacked near Atlantis

A MAN is expected to be arraigned today in connection with the alleged physical assault of a woman near Atlantis resort’s parking lot.

AG’s lawyers walk away over strategy

HIGH-profile attorneys on the government’s legal team have severed ties with the Office of the Attorney General due to a difference of legal opinion on which strategy to take in its rebuttal to legal action filed over the removal of shanty towns.

Exam passes down again

STUDENTS who took the Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) examinations performed marginally worse this year in comparison with those who took the national tests in 2017.

School mourns for lost star students

IT was a sombre first day back to school yesterday for the students and teachers at Jack Hayward High School in Grand Bahama as they mourned two students killed in a weekend accident.

Ferguson holds file on Labour Day tragedy

COMMISSIONER of Police Anthony Ferguson has yet to decide what position the Royal Bahamas Police Force will take on the Labour Day tragedy that left four women dead, The Tribune was told.

Man shot before gunmen speed away

A MAN is in hospital after he was shot outside a Pinewood Gardens home on Sunday night.Police said the shooting happened shortly after 11pm, when two men pulled up to a residence on Breadfruit Street in Pinewood Gardens. A silver Nissan vehicle pulle

‘Paint Da Streets Pink’ for breast cancer awareness

Grab your tennis shoes and water bottles! The Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial is calling all fun run/walk and health enthusiasts to take part in its sixth annual “Paint Da Streets Pink” race on Saturday, September 29.

Miller-Uibo: ‘I’m living out my dream’

Shaunae Miller-Uibo can best be remembered as the star track athlete at St Augustine’s College who grew in stature as a CARIFTA Games champion right before our eyes. We’ve watched as she has excelled as an IAAF Youth and Junior, Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games gold medallist.

Mingoes, teams get ready to rumble

THE University of the Bahamas athletics programme introduced its teams as the Mingoes prepare to contest the 2018-19 season.

Knowles-Tener, Strachan make season debuts

IT was a breakout game for Mike Strachan and a new programme for Rondre Knowles-Tener as the former high school teammates made their season debuts in NCAA football last weekend.

Cooper fires back after Turnquest blames PLP

DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest should quit deflecting blame for his administration’s bad budgeting decisions, Progressive Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper said yesterday.Last week, the government halted its implementation of a new sl

Teen accused of fatal shooting

A 19-year-old man was arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of murder and attempted murder in connection with a June shooting incident.Rodman Knowles, of Step Street, Fox Hill, stood before Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged with th

Two arrests after attempted theft from DEU lot

TWO men were arrested by police after reportedly being caught attempting to steal parts from a vehicle in the parking lot of the Drug Enforcement Unit.Royal Bahamas Police Force press liaison officer, Superintendent Shanta Knowles confirmed the incid

A rock and a hard place

I consider myself a Christian, perhaps not in the traditional and hypocritical manner, but I daresay that there is not a single other Bahamian, living, preferably, or dead who loves The Lord God Jehovah more than I, bar none. Traditionally, The Bible and other scriptural tomes postulate that “all of our help” comes from God. Yes, I completely agree with this but we human beings, inclusive of me, sometimes look to external sources for financial succour.

Duty free

I noticed recently when travelling that the Liquor Stores at the Lynden Pindling International Airport are no longer duty free. I know in the past they used to be.

BUSINESS BITES: ‘In Xanadu did Kubla Khan a stately pleasure dome decree’

Four young Bahamian entrepreneurs may have read Samuel Coleridge’s 1816 poem when they began building the 100,000 square-foot structure looming hundreds of feet over Lake Cunningham. A stately pleasure dome it is indeed, as revealed at last week’s press preview.

It’s never too late to back to school . . .

Working mothers pursue academic dreams

Ninety-four year old great-grandmother Amy Craton’s compelling story of receiving her college degree last year with a perfect 4.0 grade point average proves that no one is ever too old for school.

A creative way of showing pride: Miss Bahamas hosts ‘National Costume’ contest

Bahamian pride was displayed in new and creative ways as the ‘Empowered 11’ contestants of this year’s Miss Bahamas Universe pageant showed off their entries into the national costume competition.

You Go Girl: Miss Grand holds out helping hand to families in need

With memories of growing up in less financially fortunate circumstances still strong, Miss Bahamas Grand Dannise Bain is determined to ease the burden of the next generation during this back-to-school season.

Eating healthy on a budget

Removing stigma associated with mental health

Sandilands celebrates with month of activities

All month long, the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre will be hosting a series of activities to bring attention to its programmes that improve the physical and mental health of those who seek the facility’s services.

AID Clay Court Championships: Finalists awarded

THE 26th annual AID Clay Court Championships recently concluded at the Gym Tennis Club in Winton Meadows with the presentation of awards to all finalists.

Cynthia Rahming 5th at Santo Domingo Pan American Open

NATIONAL judo champion Cynthia Rahming (under 57kg) defeated athletes from the Dominican Republic and Canada before losing in the medal rounds to gain a fifth place finish at the Santo Domingo Pan American Open.

$16bn boost through cruise port overhaul

A majority Bahamian consortium is predicting that its plans to transform Nassau’s cruise port will give the economy a $16bn boost spread over 30 years.Global Ports Holding, the international cruise port manager, in a July 16, 2018, proposal to the Go

Baha Mar drives 32% increase in room revenues

Baha Mar’s full opening helped drive a 32 percent room revenue increase among major hotel properties for the 2018 first half, although room rates rose by a much smaller amount.The Central Bank, in its monthly economic report for July, credited the $4

BISX listee in blockchain trading deal

A BISX-listed company yesterday predicted it will achieve a “pre-eminent position” after acquiring the exclusive Bahamian licence for a blockchain and digital currency trading platform.

Beauty queen demanded $1m for song worth $750

A Bahamian beauty queen demanded a $1.1m settlement for the Ministry of Tourism’s unauthorised use of her song just weeks after she licensed its five-year use for only $750.The ministry, in its latest legal salvo against the copyright violation lawsu

Govt's Grand Lucayan deal 'not a huge risk'

The Government’s $65m Grand Lucayan purchase is “not a huge risk”, the GB Chamber president asserted yesterday, with the alternative a repeat of the “Royal Oasis fiasco”.Mick Holding told Tribune Business that allowing “the status quo” to continue at

Nassau gains 15% airlift capacity boost

Seat capacity on flights from key US tourist markets to Nassau is expected to increase by almost 15 percent over the next six months, it has been revealed.Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD), the company that runs Lynden Pindling International A

Monday, September 3

09032018 HOME BUYERS' GUIDE

Monday, 3rd September, 2018.

Davis hits out at embarrassment of FNM after web shop stumble

THE Minnis administration should be “embarrassed” by the halt of its increased taxes on web shops, Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis insisted yesterday, adding it was “disgraceful” Bahamian businessmen have to be forced into the c

INSIGHT: We come here for the real thing, not a plastic, vomitous Disney recreation

A letter to all Bahamians, most particularly to the inhabitants of Eleuthera. Hello. Most of you don’t know me. I have, however, endeavoured to know more of you on each of my numerous visits to this wonderful, idyllic, tiny little island in the sun.

Blaze hits Rum Cay all-age school

A suspected electrical malfunction sparked a kitchen fire at the Rum Cay All-Age School on Saturday night making it unlikely that the school will be fit for students when they return to classes this week, Education Minister Jeff Lloyd said yesterday

‘Tax issues all stem from PLP blunders’

DAYS after the Minnis administration agreed to halt new web shop taxes after gaming house operators sued the government, Finance Minister Peter Turnquest blamed the former Christie administration for issues the government now faces with the industry and their increased taxes.

Four held in $400k drug bust

POLICE arrested four men in connection with the seizure of nearly $400,000 worth of suspected marijuana found on board a boat in the Coral Harbour area.

$8m internet upgrade for public schools

AN agreement was signed yesterday between the Ministry of Education and BTC to upgrade internet access in all government schools across the country.

Disney lays out Lighthouse Point plan

DISNEY Cruise Lines has made a presentation to the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) regarding the company’s proposal to develop a destination at Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera.

Teenagers die in power line tragedy

ONE day before the start of the new school year, two high school students were tragically killed in an early morning accident in Grand Bahama when they were fatally electrocuted moments after surviving a car crash.

INSIGHT – Try to understand, depression is a disease: it wants to kill you

Depression is an insidious disease free to strike whoever it likes at any age. Around us today, sitting near you in the office or beside you in the shop or hotel where you work, a colleague, a friend, may be silently battling with this illness which,

WORLD VIEW: The CCJ - A court for the people

THROUGHOUT the 185-year history of the Judicial Committee of the British Privy Council, it has never provided access for people of little means except for a few people on death row who received free legal service from British lawyers. This stands in

INSIGHT: Dare to dream your own destiny

‘Everybody is a Genius,’ said Albert Einstein. ‘But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.’ This week, millions of students all over the world will be returning to classes to rece

EDITORIAL: Will McCain’s funeral be another nail in Trump’s coffin?

JOHN McCain may be judged by history to be a transcendent figure in late 20th Century American history. Or not. In some ways, he was typical, even emblematic, of a social and political evolution away from meritocracy and toward nepotism. In other ways, he was an almost unimaginably stoical and heroic throwback to a revered frontier past.

Changing lanes of Nicki Kelly

Nicki Kelly is a doyenne of journalism in this country and over decades she has seen it all and reported on much of it.

Temporary court closures after Chief Justice's death

THE business of the country’s Supreme Court and Magistrates’ Court will be impacted this week due to scheduled events in light of the death of Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs.The Office of the Judiciary announced in a notice at 1pm on Wednesday, Septem

Government preparation

THE Constitutional appointments of Government cannot be made light of - there always must be continuity and perception no one went to sleep. In the case of Justice this is imperative for obvious reasons.

Moss, Smith one win away from the title in Dominican Summer League

KEITHRON Moss and Courtney Smith are now one win away from a championship title in the Dominican Summer League while several other Bahamian players are set to begin their playoff runs in the minor leagues this week.

‘We knew this one was going to be spectacular’

BRUSSELS, Belgium — There’s nothing like having your family support when you are competing. For double national 200/400 metre national record holder Shaunae Miller- Uibo, she gets an extra boost whenever she can look into the stands and see her husband and parents there cheering for her.

NCAA Football: Ferguson gets first start, Saunders posts his first score

NCAA Division I football officially kicked off last weekend and several Bahamian players had active season debuts for their respective universities.

Clarke ends her summer tour on a high note

Bahamian No. 1 ranked female player, Sydney Clarke ends her summer tennis tour on the ITF Junior Circuit on a very high note with two singles titles and one doubles title. She also had one runner-up singles finish and a pair of runner-up doubles appearances