Friday, July 31
BAMSI classes to be held virtually
The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) announced on Friday that classes for its upcoming semester will be held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Friday’s Updates: Hurricane Isaias
8.30pm: From the Associated Press – Isaias had maximum sustained winds of 80 mph (130 kph) Friday night and was expected to strengthen in the coming hours, the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said. The storm was centered about 175 miles (280 kilometers) south-southeast of Nassau in the Bahamas and was moving northwest at 15 mph (24 kph).
With 66 new cases, COVID-19 total now stands at 574
As Hurricane Isaias began to make its presence felt at 8pm on Friday in New Providence, the Minister of Health, Renward Wells, has announced the total number of cases of COVID-19 in The Bahamas has reached a whopping 574 cases.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Stupid is as stupid does in The Bahamas
FROM the travelling quarantined, to the new MOH, to the leader of the opposition’s special request, to local “lockdown” rates and a no nonsense judge, it turned out to be quite the week uptown off the farm.
66 new cases of COVID-19
There were 66 new cases of COVID-19 reported on Friday, with 39 in Grand Bahama and 27 in New Providence.
‘Don’t let conch go to waste’
AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources MP Michael Pintard wants conch vendors to be allowed to operate curbside services.
Grand Bahama residents in 20 communities advised to evacuate
Grand Bahama residents in 20 communities along the coast and other vulnerable areas are being advised to evacuate, Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, Management, and Reconstruction Iram Lewis said on Friday.
Dairy Queen mall store closed after employee tests positive for COVD-19
DAIRY Queen (Bahamas) announced its mall store was closed on Friday after an employee from that store tested positive for COVID-19.
Bahamian duo reject 'collusion' allegations
Super Value’s president and The Bahamas’ marinas chief yesterday vehemently denied claims they “colluded” with a property manager to help deprive a condo owners group of thousands of dollars. Rupert Roberts and Peter Maury, the Association of Bahama
GB 'needs Isaias like hole in head'
Grand Bahama and its ailing economy “need Isaias like we need a hole in the head”, the island’s Chamber of Commerce president told Tribune Business last night.Greg Laroda said businesses and residents alike, already in the middle of a two-week lockdo
Govt may 'trim sails again' on Isaias impacts
The government will have to “trim our sails one one more time” and reallocate spending to deal with the potential damage and fall-out from Isaias, the deputy prime minister said last night. K Peter Turnquest told Tribune Business that the Minnis adm
Building Code reform must be 'grass roots'
The Bahamas Society of Engineers (BSE) president has voiced concern that the drive to update the country’s building codes is not being led by a “grass roots effort” featuring all stakeholders. Quentin Knowles, arguing that The Bahamas was “way behin
Govt rescues 'last hurrah' for hoteliers
Bahamian resorts yesterday said the government had preserved their “last hurrah” through its u-turn on requiring locals to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test to stay in them over the weekend. Clinton Davis, the Courtyard Marriott’s general manager
BPL announces controlled shutdown starting at 8pm
AS Hurricane Isaias approaches, Bahamas Power and Light has announced a controlled shutdown of high-risk parts of the New Providence grid, starting at 8pm.
Residents flock to stores and gas stations ahead of storm
RESIDENTS in New Providence flocked to grocery stores and gas stations early on Friday morning, queueing in long lines to receive food and other essential items in preparation for Hurricane Isaias.
U-turn on tests for hotel stays
THE government reversed its position prohibiting Bahamians from staying at hotels during lockdown weekends unless they produce a negative COVID-19 test result less than 24-hours after the move was announced.
It's official - no Junkanoo parades
Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades featuring thousands of participants have been scrapped for the 2020/2021 season, government and Junkanoo officials confirmed yesterday.
UPDATED: Here comes Isaias
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said stronger measures will be implemented to prevent spread of COVID-19 after Tropical Storm Isaias passes as the country recorded three COVID-19 deaths and passed a grim milestone yesterday of more than 500 recorded cases of the virus.
Man fined $200 for cursing at police officers who evacuated crowded bar
A 26-year-old man was fined $200 for cursing at police officers who last week evacuated a crowded bar in an effort to enforce the safety measures outlined in the COVID-19 emergency orders. Giovanni Smith was charged with acting disorderly and using
Grand Bahama shelters to open this morning
Grand Bahama shelters will open this morning as the island expects to experience tropical conditions by Saturday, with winds anticipated to reach 50 to 70mph.At 8am the shelters will be activated. The four shelters are Bethel Deliverance Centre and C
Man ordered to pay for furniture damage
A magistrate ordered a man to fully compensate another man whose furniture he damaged earlier this week. Marlin Smith, 20, was accused of causing $807.97 damage to a man’s 32-inch Samsung TV and two tables on July 27. He pleaded guilty during a hea
Pandemic hinders restoration of water in Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama Utility Company has reported full restoration of water potability for the island is being “severely hampered” by the global coronavirus pandemic. To date, 70 percent of GBUC’s customer base has potable supply, Philcher Grant, director o
Bastian invited to showcase
After missing out on his first opportunity to secure a major division one basketball scholarship, Lathaniel Bastian is hoping that his dream comes true this time around.
Athletes make it to US, get ready for season
HEAD coaches Rolando “Lonnie” Greene and Norbert Elliott indicated how pleased they are that their Bahamian athletes have made it to the United States and can now get ready for the upcoming track and field season at the University of Kentucky and Purdue University.
Hield on playoff prospects: ‘We want all the smoke’
CHAVANO “Buddy” Hield had a simple reply when asked about the Sacramento Kings’ playoff prospects:
Mackey to re-join Eagles as assistant coach
NASHAD Mackey will return to the Embry-Riddle Eagles men’s basketball programme, but will transition to the sidelines in a new role as a member of the coaching staff.
Thief is jailed for stealing gas tanks to support drug habit
A 44-year-old man who admitted to stealing utility tanks to support his drug habit was sentenced to nine months in prison yesterday. Leroy Clarke was accused of stealing a 100-pound gas tank from St Gregory Parish on June 8. He was further accused o
Weeks later - and still no answer on pitbull killings
MORE than two weeks after police allegedly killed several pitbulls at a private residence, Bahamas Humane Society President Kim Aranha said she is still awaiting answers about what happened and why. Between three and five pitbulls were reportedly ki
Man stabbed to death and two others injured
A STABBING incident in Nassau Village involving relatives last night ended with one man dead and two injured in stable condition at the hospital.ASP Audley Peters told reporters on the scene it is believed the matter involved an uncle and nephews fro
DIANE PHILLIPS: True tears for a real hero who devoted his life to the struggle for equality
If you watched the moving coverage of the long farewell to former US Congressman John Lewis this week and did not shed a tear, please check the place where your heart is supposed to be.
Smith Jr to make move from JuCo to NCAA Division III
CHRIS Smith Jr will make the move from JuCo to NCAA Division III this fall.
COVID limits GB water restoration to just 70%
The Grand Bahama Utility Company (GBUC) has blamed COVID-19 disruption for restricting post-Hurricane Dorian water service restoration to 70 percent of its customer base. The provider said disruptions to the supply chain, access to new equipment, ma
No car rental boost from jitney closure
Car rental companies yesterday said high unemployment and reduced incomes meant they had seen no increase in business as a result of the government’s COVID-19 public transport shutdown. Gary Cox, general manager of Destiny Motor Car and Rentals, tol
Rebuilding workforce bonds amid COVID
With a large percentage of our workforce now occupying their home, managers and company leaders are challenged with finding ways to keep synergy and momentum. What some have worked on for years is now on the brink of collapse. Finding opportunities f
Merchants warned over price gouging
Price regulators yesterday renewed warnings to merchants not to exploit COVID-19 and potential Hurricane Isaias to gouge consumers or offload spoiled produce Danny Sumner, the Price Control Commission (PCC) chairman, told Tribune Business: “The Comm
Bahamas First shareholders support board on resolutions
Bahamas First yesterday said shareholders had agreed to board of directors’ recommendations for all proposed resolutions during last week’s annual general meeting (AGM).Shareholders representing 32.2m shares, some 88 percent of those that have been i
Thursday, July 30
Man killed, two injured in altercation between uncle and nephews
A man is dead after a stabbing incident involving three relatives in Nassau Village on Thursday night.
24 new cases of COVID-19, three additional deaths
The Ministry of Health confirmed on Thursday that there are 24 new cases of COVID-19 and three additional COVID-19 related deaths.
EDITORIAL: Crime leaving residents still feeling aftermath of hurricane
IN the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, crime was a major concern for residents of Abaco. There were fears over looting, fears over inadequate policing with officers not going out at night with no power meaning no lights on the streets.
STATESIDE: The third-party candidates who the big boys don’t like at the party
Did you know there were 21 third-party candidates who received votes in the American presidential election of 2016?
FRONT PORCH: Chapters and narrative of COVID-19 still being written
The Italian humanist, scholar and poet Francesco Petrarca, whose anglicised surname is Petrarch, wrote these words at the height of the Plague, which was also known as the Black Death, the Great Mortality and the Pestilence.
Repatriation flight takes 75 home
A REPATRIATION flight left The Bahamas on Tuesday, carrying more than 75 foreign nationals. The flight was a special charter organised by the Cayman Islands, the Philippines and the British High Commission. The flight from Cayman to London stopped i
Negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test NOT required for Bahamian, resident hotel guests
The Ministry of Tourism has released a statement to confirm that a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test is not required by Bahamian and resident guests of hotels.
Student visas for U.S. available
Bahamian students aspiring to study in the United States for the fall semester but were uncertain of whether or not they would be able to obtain a student visa can breathe a sigh of relief. The Embassy of the United States in Nassau announced late ye
'There is only so much we can do'
NO hurricane shelters have been identified for some of the Abaco cays – and yesterday the government admitted the nation has no properly built shelters to withstand another Hurricane Dorian. Carl Smith, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Disaste
Shelters still open Dorian victims
NEARLY 11 months after Hurricane Dorian, people were still living in a hurricane shelter in New Providence, according to the director of Social Services, Lillian Quant-Forbes – although that shelter was due to close yesterday. Hurricane Dorian chang
No visitors to PMH, all wards closed to public
No visitors will be allowed into the Princess Margaret Hospital and all wards are now closed to the public, it was announced yesterday. Access to entrances to the hospital and to the wards within have been restricted in an attempt to “ensure the saf
Hope Town residents' fears over burglaries
SOME Hope Town second homeowners are reconsidering their investments amid fears over burglaries and a decline in police presence. The manager of Elbow Cay Properties, Hilary Thompson, who oversees 60 properties, told The Tribune: “It’s not like the
Residents get ready for stormy weather
Grand Bahama residents headed out to hardware and grocery stores to stock up in preparation for a Tropical Storm Isaias – expected to affect the island this weekend.
Just 1,300 enrol for BPL late bill plan
Some 90 percent of Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) customers facing disconnection last night remained in danger of having their electricity cut-off as the utility seeks to recover a $46m debt.
'Show me the money' on digital permit plan
Bahamian professionals yesterday said “show me the money” after a Cabinet minister expressed hope that a fully integrated digital system for handling building permits will be in place by year-end. Architects and engineers responded alike after Desmo
Insurers see no major hurricane cover rise
The Bahamas Insurance Association (BIA) yesterday said there has been no “appreciable increase” in persons buying home insurance in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian’s $3.4bn economic blow. Anton Sealey, the association’s chairman, told Tribune Busin
Fishermen fear 40% crawfish price slump
Crawfish fishermen may suffer at least a 40 percent year-over-year decline in prices for their catch compared to last season’s peak, it was revealed yesterday. Paul Mailis, director of the National Fisheries Association of The Bahamas, told Tribune
Bahamas First closes $4.28m premium 'gap'
Bahamas First’s top executive yesterday said the insurer has largely closed a $4.276m premium income “gap” that opened towards the 2020 first quarter end due to the COVID-19 lockdown. Patrick Ward, the property and casualty underwriter’s president a
Grand Bahama case count rises 32 as New Providence slows down
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar confirmed last night that Bahamians who want to have a vacation and stay in a hotel will be required to have a negative COVID test in just the same fashion as visitors arriving from outside the country.
SAXONS CALL HALT TO NEXT JUNKANOO: Champions stop all work in anticipation event is abandoned
MEMBERS of the Shell Saxons Superstars have stopped work on preparations for Junkanoo in anticipation of an announcement from the government on changes to this year’s parades in light of COVID-19.
SKYGuard eALERT #11: Bahamas Power & Light Tropical Storm Isaias Projected Rainfall Accumulations
Thursday, 30th July, 2020.
Police delay on killing ‘concerning’
ENGLERSTON MP Glenys Hanna-Martin wants National Security Minister Marvin Dames to explain why it took three days for authorities to confirm that a police involved killing happened last Friday.
The gracious Clarice Granger
MRS Clarice Granger, an iconic and gracious Bahamian lady, with kind, sparkling eyes, has passed from time into eternity.
A reminder of childhood
THE recent predicament of the open travel to USA with unrestricted return within 72 hours reminds me of a childhood rhyme:
Man jailed for six months for threatening to kill
A 38-year-old man was jailed for six months after he admitted threatening to kill a woman, dishonestly receiving stolen appliances and damaging a man’s car. Sanjay Cooper was accused of dishonestly receiving a fridge, blower, AC unit, microwave and
Woman passenger admits swearing at police officers
A 25-year-old woman who used profanity and punched a police officer who stopped and evacuated a bus she was riding on earlier this week was granted a conditional discharge in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Lucna Severe appeared before Assistant C
Iram Lewis: We're as ready as we can be for storm
Iram Lewis, Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, Management, and Reconstruction, says Grand Bahama is “ready as can be” and has “more than enough” hurricane shelters based on meteorological advice concerning the storm. “We are fully aware of
Bahamians don't follow rules
I write to you with reference to an article that I saw in The Nassau Guardian, written by one Mr William Wong on July 24, 2020, headed: It Ain’t Right.
Restart ready
Following successful debuts in their return to basketball, Deandre Ayton’s Phoenix Suns and Buddy Hield’s Sacramento Kings gear up for a playoff push and a race for the final spot in the Western Conference when the NBA officially restarts its season.
Rolle: ‘I think the NFL should delay the sport or cancel it this year’
BAHAMIAN Rhodes Scholar, former NFL player, and future neurosurgeon, Myron Rolle offered his unique perspective on the upcoming NFL season.
CONCACAF has new calendar for its events
CONCACAF has restructured its qualification process for several events and announced a new calendar for its regional events amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Major to join Arizona State Sun Devils in PAC-12
ALLBRY Major will transfer to the West Coast to join PAC-12 powerhouse, the Arizona State Sun Devils.
Insurer: We can't raise premiums indefinitely
A leading insurer says the industry “simply cannot keep putting broad brush premium increases” on Bahamian households and businesses because this will create an unsustainable business model.Tom Duff, Insurance Company of The Bahamas (ICB) general man
ART OF GRAPHIX: Avoiding really graphic mistakes
Ever had a misunderstanding with a graphic or website designer who promised a dazzling design, but instead delivered a big mess? Did you lose time, hundreds of dollars, business reputation and suffer emotional turmoil? And, the worst part: You had to
Super Value chief: Do you know of closures?
Super Value’s president yesterday questioned whether consumers are aware that the government has mandated all food stores must close on Sunday and Monday to help counter COVID-19’s spread.“Does the public realise that we are closed on this upcoming S
Magistrate's Court targeting August 4 for full resumption
The Chief Justice yesterday said the Magistrate’s Courts will resume full operations, inclusive of filing claims, the issuance of summonses and the setting of new court dates, on August 4. Sir Brian Moree QC, pictured, told Tribune Business: “We have
Bahamas bids to secure $9m in UK exports trade
The government yesterday said it was aiming to secure almost $9m worth of annual Bahamian exports to the United Kingdom (UK) by ratifying a trade deal before year end. Cabinet ministers and trade officials met with representatives from the British H
Real estate president clarifies market's state
The Bahamas Real Estate Association (BREA) yesterday waded into the mixed assessments of the industry’s strength following its emergence from COVID-19 lockdown. The association moved to bring context and perspective as some brokers, agents and firms
Hardware suppliers see minimal storm business
Hardware and building materials suppliers yesterday reported no increase in business despite the weekend tropical storm threat posed by “potential cyclone nine”. Brent Burrows, CBS Bahamas (Commonwealth Building Supplies) general manager, told Tribu
Wednesday, July 29
SKYGUARD eAlert #9: Bahamas Power & Light Tropical Cyclone Projected Track & Rainfall Accumulation
Wednesday, 29th July, 2020.
37 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday that there are 37 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: We’ve won the first round of this fight - time to do it again
THERE is good news and bad news in the fight against COVID-19.
ALICIA WALLACE: Can we have some clarity please AFTER the press conference headlines
On Monday, 40 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed, most of them in Grand Bahama and New Providence. The were 16 new cases on Sunday and 10 on Saturday. The return of weekend lockdowns and the 7pm curfew were not welcomed. Everyone knew there would be an announcement last Friday, but most expected a full lockdown.
Now you see it . . . and now you don't
A BUILDING that housed government agencies including the Ministry of Labour and the Road Traffic Department has been demolished. The Clarence A Bain Building, on University Drive and Moss Road, is making way for a new development from the University
100,000 conchs perish through COVID-19 rules
TRADERS estimate more than 100,000 conchs have died and gone to waste this year because of COVID-19 restrictions forcing closure of popular food outlets and the loss of thousands of dollars revenue. Vendors at Potter’s Cay Dock yesterday shared pict
Senior Exuma executive goes into self-isolation
EXUMA Administrator Preston Cunningham is in isolation after coming into contact with one of the COVID-19 cases on the island, local MP Chester Cooper said yesterday. Mr Cooper, MP for Exuma and Ragged Island, also said while Mr Cunningham had teste
D'Aguilar apologises to couples for inconvenience
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday apologised for the inconvenience caused to all couples who were scheduled to get married last weekend, saying the government should have informed people in advance about the option to request for a weddin
'Interference' slashes BDB bad debt recovery to 50%
“Interference” in loan recoveries has made it extremely challenging for the Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) to claw back even 50 percent of its credit losses, international consultants have revealed. Canada-based International Financial Consulting (I
Tourism arrivals off 99% in June
A senior Ministry of Tourism official yesterday revealed a 99 percent year-over-year arrivals drop for June 2020 despite opening up to private air and sea visitors half-way through. Dr Kenneth Romer, the Ministry of Tourism’s executive director of p
'Utter madness': Drivers blast new jitney closure
Jitney drivers yesterday blasted the government’s decision to abruptly close the industry within weeks of its restart as “utter madness”, with police officers ordering passengers out of vehicles. However, Wesley Ferguson, the Bahamas Taxi Cab Union’s
Realtors warn: 'Don't break the economy'
Leading realtors yesterday urged the government not to “break the economy” as they warned that the mandatory 14-day quarantine facing all visitors will bring the international market to a halt.John Christie, HG Christie’s president and managing broke
Developer blasts 'last-ditch fishing expedition' effort
A Harbour Island developer is accusing the project’s opponents of embarking on a desperate “last-ditch fishing expedition” to obtain evidence from his former development manager. Michael Wiener, principal of 4M Harbour Island Ltd, is alleging that B
ActivTrades: When the going gets tough investors turn back to old friends
Despite the mayhem caused by the coronavirus pandemic and rising Sino-American tensions, an old favourite has managed to keep its sparkle. I'm talking about gold, of course.
Bahamas Power & Light / SkyGuard Tropical Cyclone Severe Weather eAlert #8 (PTC 9)
Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine Discussion Number 4 – National Hurricane Center Miami FL 5:00AM Wed Jul 29 2020
RBDF cancels leave - with no notice
Leave for all members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force was cancelled late last night, effective immediately, except for those on secondment, sick leave or quarantine, special leave, approved international study leave or pre-retirement leave.
SPEEDING UP: Record 65 new cases forces a double lockdown
THE Office of the Prime Minister announced that a lockdown will be implemented during the next two weekends as the country recorded a record 65 new COVID-19 cases yesterday.
Nygard bids to reduce court punishment
PETER Nygard has appealed a contempt conviction he received for breaching an injunction that banned him from publishing stolen emails from environmental group Save The Bays (STB), on the grounds the fine and sentence handed down to him was too harsh.
PLP leader asked PM to approve wedding
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis asked Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to waive new wedding rules for one of his constituents on Friday, but confirmation that Dr Minnis approved the request came too late for the couple to host a full-fledged wedding with more than five people.
Abaco - ‘We still need more storm shelters’
WHILE seven hurricane shelters have been identified on Abaco, there is concern that not enough shelters are on the island to accommodate people either on the mainland, or in the cays. “There are no shelters for the cays, there is great concern about that,” said Abaco resident Ken Hutton yesterday, referring to Guana Cay, Scotland Cay, Hope Town, and Green Turtle Cay.
Rotary clubs donate $20,000 to help students
ROTARY clubs have donated $20,000 to the help students evacuated from Abaco and Grand Bahama after Hurricane Dorian. The money was presented by the nine clubs in District 7020 to the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) and will provide
Egg on our faces
On July 22, the Bahamas government banned all commercial flights to The Bahamas save for those originating in the United Kingdom, the European Union and Canada. This meant that commercial flights emanating from the USA, where most of our tourists come from, would not be allowed.
Tropical storm may hit later this week
FEARS that a new weather nightmare is racing towards The Bahamas eased a little yesterday – but a tropical storm could still reach the country later in the week.The potential storm was last night still some distance to the east in the Atlantic, but s
Star student Syesha wins $2,000 scholarship
A STAR student has earned a scholarship after being honoured by the Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year Foundation. Syesha Cox was a finalist, and has been handed a $2,000 scholarship by CIBC FirstCaribbean. The bank will also present her wit
Who'd take high road?
There has been a lot of talk in the past concerning #1 Windsor Avenue and Village Road being a residential area, even newspaper articles written on the subject.
Bain Jr makes comeback
Considering the fact that he was told by doctors during grade seven at Jack Hayward High that a mitral valve prolapse (MVP) heart problem would not allow him to play sports anymore, Trevor Bain Jr made a remarkable comeback this year to win a title with the Las Ranchos basketball team in the Zacatecas League in Mexico.
‘Reno’ Johnson: ‘I’m on my second leg of training’
FOR the past two weeks, Bahamian professional boxer Tureano ‘Reno’ Johnson has been in Hollywood, Florida, preparing for a proposed shot at the World Boxing Association’s super middleweight world title or at least his next fight on September 12.
Bahamas set to compete in CONCACAF Qualifiers
GO TEAM BAHAMAS: The Bahamas men’s national football (soccer) team has qualified to compete in the CONCACAF Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup QATAR 2022.
Realtor enjoys 130% website visit rebound
A Bahamian real estate firm says a 130 percent year-over-year increase in visitors to its website since June 1 suggests the sector could rebound rapidly in COVID-19’s wake. Bahamas Realty, in a statement issued prior to the government imposing a man
Govt awaits $500m financing package
The deputy prime minister yesterday said the government will “certainly this week” receive around $500m in bridge financing from multilateral institutions as part of its $1.3bn deficit funding strategy. K Peter Turnquest, pictured , speaking to repo
New quarantine rules 'will deter everybody'
Bahamian marina and private aviation operators yesterday warned that imposing a 14-day mandatory quarantine on their clients will “hurt a lot when they cancel and don’t show up”.Peter Maury, the Association of Bahamas Marinas’ (ABM) president, told T
Tourism 'very hard sell' with 14-day quarantine
A Cabinet minister yesterday admitted that leisure tourism is now “a very, very difficult sell” for The Bahamas given that all visitors must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival to prevent COVID-19’s spread. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister for tourism a
Two employees test positive for COVID-19 at Scotiabank Freeport branch
Scotiabank (Bahamas) yesterday confirmed two employees had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
FIBA World Cup Skills Challenge tryouts called off
THE Bahamas Basketball Federation far exceeded its total of participants for tryouts for the under-17 boys and girls Skills Challenge teams for next month’s International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Americas Region competition for qualification for the World Cup Skills Challenge.
Tuesday, July 28
Government implements two additional weekend lockdowns
The Office of the Prime Minister has released a statement detailing two additional weekend lockdowns:
BPL | SKYGuard Tropical Cyclone Severe Weather eAlert #6
Despite the extraordinary challenges facing our nation from the global pandemic sweeping around the globe, it would appear that The Bahamas will become the first nation in the world to also experience a Tropical Cyclone whilst under 'Lockdown' and/or Curfew to help fight the deadly virus' spread across our islands.
65 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Tuesday that there are 65 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: A man dead, and the police silent
THERE are things that should not happen in a modern democracy.
PETER YOUNG: Flyaway Bahamians and the BBC causing all sorts of upset
With the latest rise in COVID-19 cases in The Bahamas and re-imposition at the weekend of lockdown measures, I hasten to write briefly about this as well as about the BBC as I had planned. The reason for this spike seems to be linked to Bahamians visiting Florida during the last few weeks and is against the background of a second global wave of the virus.
FACE TO FACE: Bahamians’ rushed exodus from Florida and the flights back to quarantine - via hot spot in Freeport
When Prime Minister Hubert Minnis announced on July 19 that the borders of The Bahamas would be closed to travellers from the United States by Wednesday, July 22, there was a mad scramble for Bahamians who were travelling to return home. They did not want to end up in a situation where they were stuck in America for who knows how long until PM Minnis decided to reopen the border.
Minnis leads tributes to Owen Arthur, former PM of Barbados
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has offered his condolences on the death of former Barbados Prime Minister Owen Arthur.
Quick-fire wedding: Couple rush to get married before weekend lockdown
A COUPLE who postponed their wedding in May due to COVID-19 restrictions rushed to pull off their wedding ceremony on Friday before the weekend lockdown could spoil their plans a second time. Steffon and Shaquel Evans did not anticipate they would h
BPL | SKYGuard Tropical Storm Severe Weather eAlert
Tuesday, 28th July, 2020.
Fidelity 'holding our own' on $7.5m half-year profit
Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) incoming chief executive will tomorrow unveil $7.5m in 2020 half-year profits as evidence the bank is “holding our own on the bottom line” despite COVID-19. Gowon Bowe, who will replace Tom Hackett and be appointed to the BIS
Gym owners slam closure as 'unfair'
A newly-formed gym and fitness owners association is planning to meet with the government on the sector’s latest “blanket” COVID-19 closure, which occurred without any industry consultation. Dr Kent Bazard, owner/operator of Empire Fitness, told Trib
'No more headroom' for COVID lockdown
A prominent businessman yesterday warned his companies have “no more headroom” to keep staff on payroll if the government imposes another full lockdown, adding: “We’ve spent out goodwill money.” Robert Myers, chief executive of Caribbean Group Baham
ALL arrivals must quarantine for 14 days
The government last night expanded the 14-day mandatory COVID-19 quarantine to visitors arriving by boat and private plane in what was branded a “one size fits all” approach.
‘TELL ME WHY YOU HAD TO KILL JAMAL’: Fiancee despairs as she and victim’s family in police shooting wait for answers
A FAMILY is looking for answers after a man was shot and killed by police near Windsor Park – but days later they have not been contacted by officers. The man’s fiancée yesterday said she broke down in tears when she went to identify his body at the morgue.
One in four need food assistance
ONE in four people in The Bahamas are receiving food assistance in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the National Food Distribution Task Force.
100 officers quarantined as case count rises by 40
MORE than 100 police officers are in quarantine because of COVID-19 as the number of overall cases in the country jumped by 40 yesterday, including 21 in Grand Bahama, 16 in New Providence, two in Exuma and one in Cat Island.
Hilton halts operations ‘til October
The British Colonial Hilton's top executive last night confirmed the resort will this Friday "suspend operations" until October due to the latest COVID-19 travel restrictions.
‘Taxes will increase to cover debt’
A leading Bahamian banker has warned that taxes will "increase significantly" to pay for the Government's COVID-19 spending, leaving individuals and businesses left with less money "for quite a while".
Pre-school teacher requires immediate surgery to correct skull malformation
Forty-five-year-old Vernessa Rahming is in urgent need of surgery to correct a leak in her brain.
Asking price too steep
As of July 25, there are a reported 159 confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Grand Bahama -- 29 more than in New Providence. Grand Bahama is now a hotspot for the virus. Many people on the island are jittery, for obvious reasons.
Leaders have got us into the mess we are in today
We are between a rock and a very hard place under this administration. Yes, as a student of Bahamian politics, unique in and of itself, I concur that one should not necessarily blame the Competent Authority and his people them for the abject mess we are in today. It is a given, however, that while they could not have anticipated or stopped Dorian last year or the uninvited arrival of the pandemic, their responses have been dismal at best.
Driver has lucky escape
A Grand Bahama man is lucky to be alive after surviving a serious car wreck on Sunday while trying to evade police for allegedly being out on the streets during the lockdown in Grand Bahama. Although the car was extensively damaged, Superintendent T
Man told to attend anger management
Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes ordered a 33-year-old man to attend anger management classes after he admitted to assaulting a man with a cutlass last week.
Magistrate worried by lack of COVID compliance
A Grand Bahama Magistrate yesterday expressed serious concern over residents failing to comply with COVID-19 rules, especially since GB now leads with the highest number of infections in The Bahamas. “I am worried for us,” Magistrate Rengin Johnson
Man charged with murder, three attempted murders
A 21-year-old man was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with murdering a man and attempting to murder three other people. Kervon Stewart was charged with killing Renaldo Nairn on July 16. He was also charged with trying to murder Antonio P
Archer killer told to reapply to appeal murder conviction
THE killer of 11-year-old Marco Archer has been told he is out of time to challenge his murder conviction.
Americans deny taking too much cash
FOUR American men were charged yesterday after failing to declare more than $30,000 en route to the United States over the weekend. The men who hail from Florida were granted bail ahead of their trial.
Adding insult to injury
Having apparently been at the forefront of the decision to open our country’s borders to visitors from the world’s epicentre of the coronavirus, it must have been difficult for Dionisio D’Aguilar to exceed with insults his injuries to the Bahamian public.
Dynamic duo continue to shine for Defenders Elite
The Bahamian talented young duo of Deyton Albury and Garreth Edgecombe continue to shine for the Defenders Elite basketball team at the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Tournament in South Carolina.
Shavaul Butters receives his first Division 1 offer
SHAVAUL Butters has begun to garner attention from major Division I basketball programmes and received his first offer of what is expected to be an active recruiting process.
Zane is on the move again
BAHAMIAN pro basketball player Zane Knowles is on the move again this offseason.
The ‘Whimsical Mommy’ addresses taboo topics
Breastfeeding can still be controversial topic. While the decision to breastfeed or not to breastfeed is a very personal one, it seems everyone is quick to judge and offer their opinion. And while there has been increased awareness in recent years about the considerable health benefits of babies having mother’s milk, it’s often not as easy as just deciding to breastfeed or not to breastfeed. Through no fault of their own, some new moms cannot feed their children because they simply have low milk supplies.
Parents beware: Predators luring girls through social media
Social media has become the new playground for child predators, who sit behind the computer, watch their prey in cyberspace and then make a move to connect. Likes, comments and post shares are like candy – they appear innocent at first, but are used as bait to reel in the unsuspecting minor.
The emotional toll of ‘standing by your man’
Songs like Tammy Wynette’s famous “Stand by Your Man”, phrases like “you made your bed, now lie in it”, or hip hop’s “ride or die” culture, can make women feel obligated to play the supportive role no matter the circumstances.
YOU GO GIRL: Justice the ‘Gem Girl’
SHE may be only 10 years old, but Justice A Hall is a girl with mission, and her own company.
LIFE LINES: The certainty of uncertainty
As humans we like to define our lives with certainty with predictability. We believe that if we know the answers we will survive.
Don’t let the scale scare you: Celebrating every bit of progress
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.
With one in six Bahamian men affected, here is how to lower your risk of prostate cancer
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has registered that 200 Bahamian men were diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019, and that number is likely underestimated, as several Bahamians seek prostate cancer screening and treatment abroad and are therefore often not captured in local statistics.
Cable director: Digital transformation is here
A Cable Bahamas director says “digital transformation is our present” due to the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown. Dominic Petty, the BISX-listed telecommunications provider’s northern Bahamas director, told the Andros Business Outlook: “Digital tran
Restaurants in sales declines of up to 95%
One restaurant yesterday said sales were down 95 percent as the government reimposed restrictions that bar indoor and outdoor dining in a bid to curb the latest COVID-19 outbreak. Christopher Robertson, owner/operator of the Cricket Club, told Tribu
Androsians urged: 'Tear up the box and innovate'
A Bahamian entrepreneur last week told Andros residents they must “tear up the box and innovate” to achieve their financial ambitions and develop sustainable communities. Robert Pantry, who left his career in banking to found Simplified Lending, tol
Resorts World closing 'for best'
Bimini’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday backed the weekend closure of the island’s main resort as the “best” move in light of the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases. Edward Reckley told Tribune Business of the Resorts World Bimini closure: “O
Wedding planner 'surprise' over Harbour Island event
The Bahamas Bridal Association (BBA) yesterday voiced “surprise” that the controversial Harbour Island wedding was allowed to take place without enforcement of COVID-19 health protocols. Cindy Coakley-Knowles, the association’s president, told Tribu
Disney urged: Update lighthouse point EIA
Bahamian environmental activists yesterday urged Disney Cruise Line to update studies for its Lighthouse Point proposal to account for the impacts of COVID-19 and climate change. The groups behind the Stop Disney - Last Chance for Lighthouse Point c
Monday, July 27
40 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Monday that there are 40 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
WORLD VIEW: A tale of two neighbours
RECENT electoral events in Guyana and Suriname, which border each other on the north-eastern coast of the South American continent, display a remarkably different approach to democracy that could be the determining factor in catapulting Suriname’s development and prosperity well ahead of Guyana’s.
INSIGHT: Sharks skirting on the edge of wipeout but not in our waters
New research from Global FinPrint, headed by researchers at Florida International University (FIU), has concluded that sharks are absent from many reefs around the world and has deemed the species, “functionally extinct”. The good news is The Bahamas is not in that count as it is one of the few countries that still has a healthy shark population.
INSIGHT: We can play the blame game but, at the end of the day, we are all in this together
IT seems we have sobered up. After 170 new cases of COVID-19 in the past two weeks - all presumably a result of the country’s premature reopening - the emergency powers have been extended for another two months.
Getaway turns to regret as 79-year-old infected
A FUN getaway to Moore’s Island for the Independence holiday weekend is now a regret for Valencia Francis after the Berry Islands resident contracted COVID-19 and subsequently infected her 79-year-old mother. The annual event she attended became a b
Hutton: Abaco skills gap affecting quality of work
AS many construction jobs go unfilled in Abaco, a skills gap on the island has sometimes led to substandard construction work, according to Abaco Chamber of Commerce President Ken Hutton. He spoke on Saturday during a virtual job fair highlighting e
BPL | SKYGuard Long Range Tropical Cyclone Severe Weather eAlert (Invest 92L)
Monday, 27th July, 2020.
Tributes pour in for radio star Phil
RADIO personality Phillip Sands, 54, best known for his impersonations as “Yvonne Batalise, LLB Esq” or “The Digger” on the People’s Radio Station (100 JAMZ), died yesterday morning at the Princess Margaret Hospital after suffering a massive stroke at his home last weekend.
Real estate sales in 'shocking' 92% drop
Real estate industry data has revealed that Bahamian property sales volumes crashed by “a shocking” 92 percent year-over-year at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Timothy Smith, of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate MCR Group Bahamas, told Trib
Govt 'recalibrates' to avoid tourism strangle
The government is continuing to “recalibrate” its COVID-19 travel protocols to give Bahamians “substantial protection without absolutely strangling tourism”, the attorney general said yesterday. Carl Bethel QC told Tribune Business that internal adm
Private pilots targeting 'instantaneous' rebound
A leading private pilot believes the Bahamas will enjoy an “instantaneous” rebound from COVID-19 in that aviation market after record numbers signed up for a regular November flight to Long Island.Jim Parker, president of Caribbean Flying Adventures.
New lockdown may be ‘economic suicide’
Bahamian retailers gave a mixed reaction to the reimposition of weekend lockdowns with some branding it as akin to "economic and national suicide" and others backing the Prime Minister's move.
UPDATED – Cases count: 16 positive, including exuma woman
THE Bahamas recorded 16 new cases of COVID-19 yesterday, including ten on Grand Bahama and five on New Providence.
Grand Bahama women spread virus breaking quarantine
A MOTHER and daughter who contracted COVID-19 while abroad broke quarantine rules when they returned to Grand Bahama and subsequently infected eight other people with the disease, according to Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Delon Brennen.
What about my wedding day? Bride’s anger at calling off her big day when PM gave other ceremonies go-ahead
A bride-to-be is upset that she cancelled her wedding to comply with COVID-19 rules only to learn that Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis exempted two couples from regulations limiting the number of wedding attendees to five.
$250,000 for water mission
THE CENTRE for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) has granted the international engineering non-profit group Water Mission $250,000 to support ongoing disaster relief efforts in Abaco. In a statement on Friday, the organisation revealed the grant will go
The selfishness of others causes suffering for all
The Prime Minister took to the floor of Parliament and gave us a tortured insight onto a contentious issue that has bedeviled governments all over the world this year.
Madness of our entry requirements
There would be little doubt that Dr. Minnis' Administration and the COVID-19 task-force deserve our praise and heartfelt thanks for their superb handling of the extraordinary challenges facing our nation from the Coronavirus-19 pandemic.
Ludicrous lockdowns
I am a Bahamian currently in Ontario and read The Bahamas online news and comments daily.
Simply the best: Miller-Uibo clocks personal best in 100m
Another pair of world leading victory performances, including a personal best in the 100 metres, was logged into Shaunae Miller-Uibo’s account at the Back to the Track: Clermont Series over the weekend.
Steven Gardiner produces his fastest ever 200m opener
HE won his heat, but Bahamian world 400 metre champion Steven Gardiner produced his fastest 200m opener ever to finish in second place overall in the timed final of the men’s 200 metres at the Back to the Track: Clermont Series.
Sprinter Anthonique Strachan pulls off victory in 200m
AFTER recording a second and third place finish in her previous two meetings in the Velocity Fest Meet series in Jamaica, Bahamian sprinter Anthonique Strachan finally emerged to the top of the podium on Saturday.
Ayton flashes new aspect of his offensive game, ‘Buddy’ has led Kings in scoring
THE NBA restart has gone through two of three scrimmages at Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida, and both Bahamian players at the NBA “clean site” appear ready to perform at a high level once the games count toward the record books.
Debunking the myths surrounding vasectomies
Every year in the United States at the time of March Madness, the NCAA basketball tournament, there is usually a tremendous increase in the number of elective vasectomies performed. Vasectomies are historically heavily promoted before and during March Madness.
Information firm's new HQ marks its 20th anniversary
Sunryse Information Management has celebrated its 20th anniversary in business by opening its new 38,000 square foot headquarters building on Fire Trail Road. The full-service information management company was started in 2000 by Chris Sawyer and hi
Doctors Hospital moves over healthcare barriers
A senior Doctors Hospital executive says it has moved to combat “access and affordability barriers” to healthcare stemming from COVID-19 job losses and increasingly stringent insurance policies.Dennis Deveaux, the BISX-listed healthcare provider’s ch
Ministry bids to help Long Island farmers
Farmers in Long Island have identified immediate assistance with land clearing, entry into the poultry market and the introduction of shrimp farming as critical to expanding the island’s agriculture output. The concerns were raised during a virtual
Sunday, July 26
Saturday, July 25
Shaunae wins Clermont Track Meet 100m with personal best
IT seemed as if Shaunae Miller-Uibo went back to her high school days at St Augustine's College as she competed in the 100 metres on Friday at the two-day Back to the Track: Clermont Track Meet.
10 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health confirmed on Saturday that there are 10 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19.
Friday, July 24
STATESIDE: In a nation divided by Trump and drowning in COVID, we need something to talk about - even sport
For as long as anyone can remember, the Washington Post has featured a full, separate sports page. The local teams have always gotten coverage ranging from barely adequate (women’s soccer) to full (the pro football team formerly known as the Redskins). Pulitzer Prizes have been awarded to feature writers. In many respects, the newspaper’s sports section has occupied as influential a place in its sphere as has the editorial section.
UPDATED: PM announces weekend lockdown, new midweek curfew hours
THE recent surge of COVID-19 cases prompted Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis on Friday to reinstate a weekend lockdown and implement a new 7pm to 5am curfew midweek.
Attorney pleads not guilty to obstruction of justice
ATTORNEY Phillip Lundy pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday to committing obstruction of justice.
Bahamasair suspend Saturday and Sunday flights
BAHAMASAIR suspended all scheduled flights on their route network for Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26, due to the weekend lockdown.
Police warn on selling alcohol during GB lockdown
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Ashton Greenslade warned that the selling of alcohol at bars and private residences during the COVID-19 lockdown is not permitted. People who break the rules will be arrested and prosecuted.
NPEP donates $25,000 to three nonprofits assisting during pandemic
THE New Providence Ecology Park (NPEP) has announced a combined donation of $25,000 to support the work of three local nonprofit organisations assisting those in need due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
TROPICAL STORM HANNA REPORT: Friday 6pm
NEWS ON TROPICAL STORM HANNA ISSUED BY THE BAHAMAS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY FORECAST OFFICE SECTION, AT 6:00PM FRIDAY 24TH, JULY 2020.
TROPICAL STORM GONZALO REPORT: Friday 6pm
NEWS ITEM ON TROPICAL STORM GONZALO ISSUED BY THE BAHAMAS DEPARTMENT OF METEOROLOGY FORECAST OFFICE SECTION, AT 6:00 PM FRIDAY 24TH JULY 2020. …
EDITORIAL: Leaders must make the hard decisions
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis used a word yesterday that you don’t expect to hear from a government in power.
DIANE PHILLIPS: There really is no place like home - shame we don’t go out and see it
It began with a thin piece of paper that fell out of an old folder. I can’t explain why I kept it for more than 40 years or why I kept any of the stuff in that folder, for that matter. Instinct, maybe, but back to the slip of paper. It was a small 4.5”x 8.5” flyer, now yellowed with age, with the name and photograph of Earl Nightingale, the legendary author and radio personality who ruled the airwaves in the 1950s and ‘60s.
A COMIC'S VIEW: The Chronicles of COVID (Chapter Two)
Farmer Minnis, having watched the number of animals infected with COVID-19 explode in just a few short days, was livid.
Bishop: We’ll keep operating churches under guidelines from government
BISHOP Laish Boyd, head of the Anglican Diocese of The Bahamas & Turks and Caicos Islands, said although there is a spike in COVID cases, the Anglican community will continue to operate churches under the current government issued protocols.
Atlantis staff seek help from Social Services
SOME Atlantis workers have turned to the Department of Social Services for assistance amid the resort's protracted closure. The resort is considering not reopening until November, Tourism Minister Dionisio D'Aguilar said on Wednesday.
Abaco holds its breath after Baker's Bay cases
ABACO residents say they fear there could be more COVID-19 cases on the island after two workers employed at Baker’s Bay resort tested positive for the virus this week, with one official calling for a “shut down” to avoid a surge.Roscoe Thompson told
Cooper warns on migrant move
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party deputy leader Chester Cooper yesterday cautioned the government to not allow some 29 undocumented migrants to be transported to Ragged Island, saying the move could potentially expose residents there to the novel coronavirus
Davis calls on FNM to accept responsibility for spike
OPPOSITION leader Phillip “Brave” Davis yesterday called on government to accept full responsibility for the spike of COVID-19 cases, saying its policies on the re-opening of the borders were “full of loopholes”. Speaking in the House of Assembly ye
New Health Minister says COVID-19 is 'like Satan'
HEALTH Minister Renward Wells said COVID-19 is like “Satan, roaming to and fro, seeking whom he may devour.”He made the comment during a speech in the House of Assembly. He provided few details about the surge of coronavirus cases the country has see
GB Minister: Stay at home and follow rules
AS Grand Bahama headed into a “difficult two-week lockdown” after an outbreak of COVID-19 infections, Minister of State for Grand Bahama Senator Kwasi Thompson stressed the seriousness of the situation. He said residents should remain at home for th
Weekend lockdown to begin tonight at 10pm
A WEEKEND lockdown will take place across the country beginning Friday night at 10pm because of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases, the Office of the Prime Minister announced in a statement.
Govt allows commercial flights from U.S. – with 14 days quarantine
THE government has reversed its decision banning commercial flights from the United States to the Bahamas, mandating instead that travelers from all countries quarantine for 14 days when they arrive in this country.
Small business faces $748m 'financing gap'
Bahamian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face a “financing gap” that could be as large as $748m, the Bahamas Development Bank’s (BDB) transformation plan estimates. The report, a copy of which has been seen by Tribune Business , suggests t
'Nothing off table' over Bahamasair cost-cutting plans
Bahamasair’s chairman yesterday said that while there had been no formal discussions with government on staff salary deferrals, “nothing is off the table” as the airline seeks to drastically cut costs.Tommy Turnquest confirmed to Tribune Business tha
Chamber chief urges: Lockdown Nassau for Emancipation holiday
Exuma’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday called for Nassauvians to be banned from travelling to the Family Islands for Emancipation Day if COVID-19 cases continue to spike in the capital. Pedro Rolle, telling Tribune Business that “many peopl
Abaco: 'Lockdown last thing we need'
Abaco was yesterday “holding its breath” over COVID-19’s arrival, with the island’s Chamber of Commerce president warning: “The last thing we need right now is a lockdown.” Ken Hutton told Tribune Business that any new shutdown to halt the virus’ sp
'Only 20% qualifying for average mortgage'
Just 20 percent of Bahamians are able to service and qualify for an “average” mortgage, the Bahamas Development Bank’s (BDB) strategic transformation report estimates.Canada-based International Financial Consulting (IFC), in a document tabled in the
As The Bahamas is rocked by 55 new cases, PM says: ‘We were afraid to stop travel’
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said Bahamians who travelled to the United States when the borders reopened this month “lacked discipline” and caused a surge in COVID-19 cases.
Bahamasair salaries may have to be deferred
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said the government may have to defer a portion of salaries for Bahamasair employees as the COVID-19 crisis continues to hit government coffers. “As government we have some very difficult decisions to make,” he said i
Bahamas and the pandemic
These are my general thoughts thus far about this pandemic and its effect on The Bahamas.
Bahamians face quarantine even with a test
BAHAMIAN health officials are quarantining returning residents from abroad even if they test negative for COVID-19 an extra precaution against false negatives and a spike in positive cases lately. Many Bahamian travellers are up in arms because, des
Upgrades for clinics announced
RENOVATIONS and upgrades of clinics in New Providence and the Family Islands combined with programme strengthening initiatives will provide improved healthcare delivery, efficiency and effectiveness. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis recently informed
Man on child sex charge
A JAMAICAN man was yesterday remanded to prison over allegations he had sex with a minor. Lamar Williams, 29, appeared before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged with one count of unlawful sexual intercourse after he was accused of having s
Man accused of stabbing love rival
A 26-year-old man was sentenced to three months in prison after he admitted assaulting another man he claimed was talking to his girlfriend “behind his back”.Rudolph Roberts was accused of assaulting Rino McDonald with a knife on May 12. He pleaded g
Man jailed over stolen motorbike
A 22-year-old man was sentenced to eight months in prison after he admitted to dishonestly receiving a stolen motorbike earlier this year.Aaron Bethel appeared before Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans after he was accused of stealing and receiving
Two charged with drug possession
A 30-year-old man who pleaded guilty to marijuana possession and cocaine possession with the intent to supply was fined $1,000 in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday.Bill Frazier was charged after officers seized 27 grams of Indian hemp and seven grams
RBDF detains migrant group
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force apprehended more than 20 migrants who were part of a suspect migrant smuggling operation in Bimini waters earlier this week.
US Embassy donates relief supplies
THE National Emergency Management Agency received relief supplies from the United States Embassy in Nassau to enable a faster response to any disaster and aid in COVID-19 fight.
The worst is yet to come
According to the website https://countrymeters.info/en/Bahamas/economy, the Bahamas’s debt is US $7.338 billion and the Bahamas GDP is US $7.269 billion.
Columbus' statue
Please allow a little space in your powerful daily about Columbus’ statue. We call The Bahamas a christian nation.
Ayton leads Suns to win on 22nd birthday
Deandre Ayton celebrated his 22nd birthday with a return to the court and led his Phoenix Suns to a win in their debut at the NBA’s season restart.
Antoan Richardson: ‘I was just brought to my knees in prayer’
WHEN Bahamian San Francisco Giants’ first base coach Antoan Richardson kneeled down during their exhibition game at Oakland on Monday night, it was primarily a decision to honour his deceased great-grandmother Dame Bertha Isaacs, a former Bahamian teacher, tennis player, women’s rights activist, politician and a former freedom fighter for social justice.
PRESS BOX – Naughty: I got into a debate with a ‘Bronsexual’
I GOT into an interesting debate in the barber shop the other day.
Trust meets BAIC over National Park proposal
Bahamas National Trust (BNT) officials yesterday met with newly-appointed Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) general manager, Rocky Nesbitt. The meeting was held to follow-up on a proposal to establish Sweeting’s Pond in Hatchet
Managing COVID change is true test of leadership
Change is happening all around us. COVID-19 has exacerbated corporate changes, and what might have taken years to realise is happening right before our eyes. The test of true leadership is how we manage in the midst of these rapid changes.Today we pr
Seek digital 'boost' amid COVID woe
Bahamian companies must give themselves a “plus or a boost” amid the COVID-19 pandemic through establishing a sustainable digital component to their operations. Ricardo McHardy, lead digital marketer for Island Business Media, told Tribune Business:
Thursday, July 23
55 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health confirmed on Thursday that there are 55 newly-confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: Fighting alone to earn victory together
MUCH of the focus on battling COVID-19 has fallen on the efforts of the government.
FRONT PORCH: The govt begged and pleaded but sadly there are those who only think of themselves
In his national address this past Sunday, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis warned the country:
'We've enough officers to police Grand Bahama lockdown'
POLICE Commissioner Paul Rolle said yesterday he did not see the need to send additional manpower to help enforce the two-week lockdown on Grand Bahama, insisting there are more than enough officers on the island to police the COVID-19 measures. His
4% fall in overall crime, reveals Rolle
OVERALL crime in the country declined by four percent between the months of January to June compared with the same period in 2019, according to Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle. According to Commissioner Rolle, the police statistics show a consider
We're still negotiating over Grand Lucayan - D'Aguilar
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said the government is still negotiating the sale of the Grand Lucayan resort, suggesting yesterday that the commitment of developers may not be as firm as it was before the COVID-19 crisis. “It’s not a good envir
Cat Island residents keen to cooperate with tracing
AFTER two residents of Cat Island tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, island administrator Neil Campbell said those who came in contact with them on the island are cooperating and making contact tracing easy for authorities there. “So far every
One traveller ‘annoyed as hell’ by his journey
INCOMING Bahamian travellers from both Miami and Fort Lauderdale flights yesterday were allowed to quarantine at home but had to download an app for tracking, they told The Tribune.
2020 'a bust' for vacation rentals
A “lifeline for the Bahamian tourism economy” has suffered the “biggest hit” possible as a result of the government’s border closure for US commercial transportation, a top realtor warned yesterday. John Christie, HG Christie’s president and managin
Marinas 'stave off' border close fears
Bahamian marinas yesterday said they had managed to “stave off” any major fall-out from international media reports that this nation was closing its borders to all US travellers due to COVID-19. Peter Maury, the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM)
Union chief: 2020 is total 'write-off' for tourism sector
The hotel union’s president branded 2020 as “a complete write-off” for tourism as more major hotel properties yesterday either extended their closures or unveiled plans to shut yet again.Darrin Woods, the Bahamas Hotel, Catering and Allied Workers Un
BPL delinquencies may force further govt help
The government may be forced into giving Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) a further bail-out if too few of its 16,000 delinquent customers pay-off their arrears, a Cabinet minister warned yesterday.
'No surprise' if NIB pays out $100m
A Cabinet minister yesterday said he will “not be surprised” if the National Insurance Board (NIB) ends up paying out $100m in benefits to Bahamians as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Brensil Rolle, minister of the public service and national ins
PM: Bahamasair may have to defer portion of salaries during pandemic
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has suggested the national airline may have to consider whether to pay Bahamasair staff a portion of their salaries as the airline has reduced flights due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, with the deferred amount paid once the pandemic is over.
IF YOU FLEW IN - QUARANTINE: PM pleads for new arrivals to self-isolate
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis apologised yesterday for the distress people experienced when they arrived in New Providence from Grand Bahama on Tuesday and were unexpectedly quarantined at a government designated facility.
Atlantis may remain shut until November
ATLANTIS is considering postponing its reopening until November, Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said yesterday.
Lloyd details plan for new school year
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd yesterday outlined the extraordinary changes public school students and parents could expect when classes resume this fall while stressing that the resurgence of COVID-19 means national exams have only been suspended, not cancelled.
Mum-to-be jailed for car attack
A PREGNANT woman who admitted to hitting a teenager with her car earlier this week was sentenced to six months in prison in Magistrates Court yesterday.
Fears of Bimini lockdown after another two cases
BIMINI residents are fearful about another lockdown for the island after two new COVID-19 cases emerged there this week. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis imposed a full lockdown of the small island community on May 18 when some 13 residents had teste
Baker's Bay hit as 25 more cases confirmed
THE Ministry of Health confirmed 25 additional COVID-19 cases yesterday, including the first four cases for the Berry Islands, bringing the nation’s total to 219. The are seven new cases in New Providence, 12 new cases in Grand Bahama and two new ca
Businessman accused of failing to keep customers far enough apart
A BUSINESSMAN who was accused of failing to ensure his employees and customers followed the regulations outlined in the COVID-19 emergency orders was yesterday granted bail ahead of his trial. Samuel Kemp, 53, appeared before Magistrate Kara Turnque
Learning about food
PATRICIA Minnis, wife of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, attended the second day of a four-day food processing training workshop for members of the Women and Girls Mentoring Coalition yesterday. The workshop is being held at the Food Safety and Tec
Two charged with drug possession
A 26-year-old man who was charged with marijuana possession yesterday was ordered to attend drug counselling classes.
Understand our history
When black Americans raised their placards and started marching in the thousands to inform their country and the world that “black lives do matter,” my thoughts slipped back many moons ago to recall a popular childhood saying – “monkey see, monkey do!” I wondered how my Bahamian brothers, who had settled the race issue many years ago and had taken over the government of our country, would find an excuse to get into the act.
Living in a time of madness and folly
The toxic Corona Virus in The Bahamas seems to be bringing all the political would-bee out of the woods. They seem to be going rudderless, wild and crazy about what should be done to deal with the contagion in our country.
My thanks to Victoria
Please allow a space in your great daily, regarding Her Majesty Queen Victoria.
‘Buddy’ scores team high 19 off the bench in loss
Chavano “Buddy” Hield showed little signs of rust in his return to action as the Sacramento Kings made their debut in the NBA 2019-20 season restart.
Chisholm, Fox play in Major League Baseball Summer Camp
JAZZ Chisholm and Lucius Fox both saw playing time this week with their respective clubs during Major League Baseball Summer Camp.
REGISTER NOW: FIBA Under-17 Skills Challenge Tryouts
JUST hours remain for student athletes to register for their opportunity to earn a roster spot for Team Bahamas at the upcoming FIBA Under-17 Skills Challenge.
Govt: Tax initiative saved 7,000 jobs
The government yesterday said it had managed to preserve more than 7,000 Bahamian jobs by providing businesses with $18m worth of COVID-19 relief via tax credits and deferrals. The details were revealed as the Department of Inland Revenue announced t
$2.1m Andros bridge now 60% completed
The $2.1m London Creek bridge in Andros is 60 percent completed, the government has announced, and is forecast to be finished by mid-September. Desmond Bannister, minister of works, said a number of creek ecosystems in Andros had been blocked due to
Construction trainers go into the classroom
Fifty-four persons are participating in the Certified Craft Instructor training course’s second intake in a bid to close skills gaps and ensure Bahamians are employable. The course, offered by the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), b
Bahamas targeting private pilot market
The Ministry of Tourism yesterday said The Bahamas is making its presence felt among one of the few sectors still allowed to bring US visitors to this nation.Together with the Royal Bahamas Police Force (aviation arm), Bahamas Civil Aviation Authorit
Wednesday, July 22
25 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Wednesday that there are 25 newly-confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: Talk to BPL - before they turn off your lights
THE go-ahead has been given for BPL to start disconnecting customers who can’t – or won’t – pay, and 16,000 could be cut off as a result.
ALICIA WALLACE: Playing the blame game when everyone knew what was likely to happen
The number of reported COVID-19 cases has been going up since the borders opened on July 1, so it is not a surprise that new restrictions were announced by the Prime Minister in the national address on Sunday. Everyone braced themselves for the worst. Some expected a full lockdown while others thought the borders would completely close without notice.
Business leader fears impact of closure
THE head of Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce is worried about the impact of the upcoming two week lockdown on non-essential businesses, saying the storm-battered island “really needs a break”. Gregory Laroda spoke with The Tribune just after Prime M
Minnis clarifies vacation rules for civil servants
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday stressed civil servants will only lose vacation time or face unpaid leave if they are required to quarantine upon their return home from abroad without a negative COVID-19 test result. He was clarifying earl
Turnquest gives thanks
AFTER his scare with COVID-19, Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest — who has since tested negative for the virus – is thanking everyone for the expressed concern for his well-being.
'Between rock and hard place' over 16% slump
A Bahamian insurer yesterday warned that many motorists may be driving with no coverage after suffering a 16 percent slump in auto premium income for the 2020 first half. Tom Duff, Insurance Company of The Bahamas’ (ICB) general manager, told Tribun
Thousands ignoring BPL disconnection warning
Less than 1 percent of the 16,000 Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) customers threatened with disconnection have yet to pay-off their arrears or agree a payment plan, it was revealed yesterday.
Cruise port stands firm over forecast despite new delay
Nassau Cruise Port’s top executive says there “is no reason” to alter its forecasts despite the latest delay to the cruise industry’s return leaving no margin for error. Michael Maura, pictured , the cruise port operator/developer’s top executive, t
Briland optimistic tourism will hold
Harbour Island was yesterday remaining optimistic it can retain tourist business that was running at up to 70 percent of pre-COVID levels despite having to counter damage created by international media. Joseph Dargavage, pictured, managing partner a
GB lockdown's exempt listing missed out hotels
The Freeport hotel where the government’s COVID-19 health team are staying was yesterday forced to seek urgent clarification it can remain open after not being included among “essential” businesses. Magnus Alnebeck, the Pelican Bay resort’s general
Bahamian contractor, Mexican worker at Baker’s Bay ‘test positive for COVID-19’
A BAHAMIAN contractor and Mexican construction worker at the Baker’s Bay property in Abaco have allegedly tested positive for COVID-19, multiple sources have told The Tribune.
UPDATED: 20 more cases with two on Cat Island
TWENTY more COVID-19 cases were confirmed in The Bahamas yesterday as Cat Island registered its first two cases and Bimini saw an increase for the first time in more than a month. The country has now recorded 194 coronavirus cases.
Crisis forces 103 John Bull redundancies
JOHN Bull has made 103 employees - 15 percent of its staff - redundant as the COVID-19 crisis continues to ravage businesses around the country.
‘WE BROUGHT IT ON OURSELVES’: Families rush to stock up for urgent GB lockdown many accept must happen
GRAND Bahamians rushed out to grocery stores yesterday morning just after Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced a two-week lockdown starting this week in response to the virulent spread of COVID-19 infections on the island.
Grand Bahama hit by two-week lockdown
DECLARING Grand Bahama a COVID-19 hotspot, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday announced a two-week lockdown of the island after a total of 61 cases were recorded there since the country re-opened its borders in early July. Giving a brief stat
National examinations suspended until further notice
THE Ministry of Education has “temporarily suspended” all national examinations effective immediately, until further notice.
Patient tries to leave PMH via window
POLICE were called to Princess Margaret Hospital yesterday after a 44-year-old male patient tried to leave the facility through a window, the Public Hospitals Authority said. The incident occurred around 2.50pm. Video footage of the incident showed
Sandilands visits cancelled
ALL visitation has been suspended at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre and Geriatric Hospital until further notice. Out-patient services including rehab, dental services, beauty salon and the adult psychiatric day patient programme have also been sus
For ‘Shaq’, COVID-19 a blessing in disguise
He couldn’t have easily been concentrating on getting back to playing basketball in Europe, but for North Andros native Shaquille ‘Shaq’ Cleare, the coronavirus pandemic has turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
RBDF officer among three accused of raping two teenagers
A ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force officer and two other men were yesterday remanded in custody over allegations they raped two teenagers last week. Yorick Brice Jr, 26, his brother Maximus Brice, 19, and another teenager aged 17, appeared before Chief M
RBDF member tests positive for COVID-19
A Royal Bahamas Defence Force member has tested positive for COVID-19. “The individual has been admitted for medical care and the force’s medical team is currently conducting intensive contact tracing to confirm other members who may have been expos
Five remanded after two separate armed robberies
TWO men and one woman were remanded to prison yesterday over allegations they robbed a man at gunpoint of over $500 last week.Letero Pyfrom, 25, Ashley Minnis, 29, and Matina Minnis, 37, were accused of using a .380 pistol to rob Derick Hepburn of $
UB to carry on remotely
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas will continue remote operations with the exception of a small number of courses for the upcoming academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All lecture, seminar, tutorial, some laboratories and practicum courses will take
Man charged with attempted murder
A 30-year-old man was arraigned on a charge of attempted murder yesterday. Steven Oliver was accused of trying to cause the death of Phillipa Farrington on July 17.During his arraignment before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt yesterday, Oliver
Good to see Turnquest is leading by example
Read with interest your brief article on East Grand Bahama and Finance Minister Peter Turnquest’s health status.
Our cash was stolen while we were asleep
I am a seasoned international traveller and have been travelling to the Bahamas since 1968, so fair to say I have some experience.
Coach Antoan Richardson kneels during national anthem
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Jaylin Davis called home and spoke with his family then his decision immediately became clear: he would kneel for the national anthem.
Reid: Peace On Da Street Tournament ‘not going to happen’ this July
WITH the re-closure of the parks and beaches due to the spike in the coronavirus, Apostle Dr Carlos Reid is still contemplating whether or not he will hold his annual Peace On Da Street Basketball Tournament.
NIB launches portal for jobless benefit extension
The National Insurance Board (NIB) on Monday launched an online portal where eligible persons can register for the government-funded Unemployment Benefit Extension Programme (GovUEBex). Persons temporarily laid-off due to the COVID-19 shutdown betwe
BAIC tackles issues with industrial park
Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) officials have met with their Gladstone Road Industrial Park tenants to address both parties’ concerns. The meeting, held at BAIC Headquarters on Monday, saw the corporation raise rental arrears
Customs demolition starts $268m cruise port project
Demolition of the former Bahamas Customs Warehouse on Prince George Wharf will kickstart the area’s $268m transformation into the Nassau Cruise Port. The project, for which a Heads of Agreement was signed between the Government and Global Ports Hold
Tuesday, July 21
Fined $300 for having marijuana
AN Eleuthera man who was found with over two ounces of marijuana was fined $300 yesterday. James Kemp was charged with one count of dangerous drug possession after officers seized 2.5 ounces of Indian hemp from him on July 17. He pleaded guilty dur
UPDATED: First two cases of COVID-19 on Cat Island
TWO residents of Cat Island have tested positive for COVID-19, the island’s administrator Neil Campbell confirmed Tuesday.
PETER YOUNG: China may be dismissive of the UK - but Britain’s bark still has bite
The issue of the extent of the involvement in Britain of China’s huge telecommunications company, Huawei, has finally come to a head. Last week, citing national security concerns, the UK government banned the tech giant from any role in developing the infrastructure of 5G – the nation’s next generation mobile communications network.
FACE TO FACE: Locked away in her room for three painful weeks trying to protect her vulnerable parents: one woman’s life with COVID
A Bahamian woman who survived the deadly COVID-19 virus today shares her story and applauds Prime Minister Hubert Minnis’ decision to close the borders to US travellers in order to preserve the health and safety of Bahamians.
Christian Council calls for more clarity
BAHAMAS Christian Council President Bishop Delton Fernander is calling for more communication with authorities so the church can make better informed decisions during the coronavirus pandemic.
'I'm extremely upset by these foolish decisions'
AS COVID-19 infections soar in Grand Bahama, some residents are blaming Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for reopening the borders too soon.
Cay vendors: We are being unfairly targeted
ARAWAK Cay and Potter’s Cay vendors feel they are being unfairly targeted after Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis shut the areas down in light of rising COVID-19 cases.
D'Aguilar: Locals are to blame
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday hit out at critics who knocked the government for its decision to re-open the country’s borders in early July, insisting the rise of COVID-19 cases in the country was not “tourist-related” but “domestic grown”.
Davis: It’s not Bahamians who are at fault
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis knocked Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for “blaming Bahamians for his government’s failings” after a spike in COVID-19 cases prompted a U-turn on the decision to reopen the country’s borders to commercial flights.
Robinson promises to bring in fresh ideas
FOLLOWING a brief swearing in ceremony at Government House, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation Travis Robinson pledged to bring “fresh and innovative ideas” to aid the country’s tourism recovery amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wells: I’ll be in charge of ‘progressive’ department - Wells
HEALTH Minister Renward Wells yesterday defended his new ministerial appointment, saying it’s not unusual for countries to have government representatives assume the role of Health Minister without having medical experience.
RBDF member tests positive for COVID-19
Coral Harbour Base: A member of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday.
Briland developer 'side steps' approval terms
A Harbour Island marina project has been accused of "side stepping" conditions imposed on its activities by submitting two different sets of plans to the central and local government authorities.
Hotelier calls for 'calibrated' action on COVID surge
A Harbour Island hotelier yesterday urged the government to adopt “a more calibrated approach” to the surge in COVID-19 infections rather than cut off all commercial transport links to the US.Benjamin Simmons, proprietor of The Other Side and Ocean V
Offshore banks: 65% report no COVID impact
Some 65 percent of Bahamas-based international banks have suffered “little or no financial impact” from COVID-19, the Central Bank revealed yesterday, marking the sector as one of the few to emerge relatively unscathed to-date.
'Increase subsidy or Bahamasair closes'
Bahamasair’s chairman yesterday warned the airline will “close down” without an increase in taxpayer subsidies after its top-line was cut by $22m due to Hurricane Dorian and COVID-19.Tommy Turnquest, pictured, speaking after the national flag carrier
Two week lockdown for Grand Bahama
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has announced a two-week lockdown for Grand Bahama from Thursday including a shutdown of all flights and sea vessels (except for essential goods) following the surge of COVID-19 cases there.
Island hoteliers fear they may not recover
EZRA Russell is ready to close up shop three years after opening the largest hotel on Cat Island, the Fountain Bay Resort and Marina.
Ten bailed for fishing offences
TEN fishermen who were accused of using an air compressor to catch over 400 pounds of undersized fish were yesterday granted bail ahead of their trial.
COVID-19: 21 new cases, Deputy PM tests negative but will self quarantine
A RECORD 21 new COVID-19 cases were recorded yesterday, 20 in Grand Bahama and one in New Providence, bringing the country’s toll in virus infections to 174.
Judges quash murder sentence of third man
THE Court of Appeal has overturned the conviction of a third man who was found guilty of kidnapping and murdering a senior immigration officer and his girlfriend in 2013. The judgment comes one week after two other men had their sentences quashed for the same crime.
How to help children deal with grief
It is my sincere belief that children secure the future of any given country or society. It is mandated by God that we as adults guard, protect and nourish our children. As an educator, I am cognizant of the importance of education and fostering learning in our children. However, catering to the souls and emotional well-being of our little darlings is vital.
‘Bahamas need to recognise female contributions to society’
In this uncertain climate, with unpredictable social, financial and health outcomes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Peteché Bethell feels women need support and encouragement more than ever. But even more importantly, she feels the Bahamas needs women to help the country recover from the financial and economic setbacks it is currently experiencing.
Man fined for causing harm
A 28-year-old man was ordered to compensate another man he injured last week while he was arguing with his girlfriend.
Levarity to go pro in Denmark
AARON Levarity will make the transition to professional basketball in Denmark for the upcoming season.
Two remanded for car break-ins
TWO men were sentenced to 15 months in prison after they admitted to breaking into and stealing items from two cars last week. Duran Horton, 37, and Jacob Dawkins, 25, were accused of damaging a glass window of a red Hyundai on July 13 before stealing a $25 lunch bag and $110 cash out of the vehicle. The men were also accused of stealing a $50 black pouch from a grey Kia that same day.
Man admits forging U.S. currency
A 25-year-old man was fined $6,000 for forging Bahamian and American dollar bills to purchase items from two businesses last week.
Fined $200 for cocaine possession
A 26-year-old man who was caught with three grams of cocaine was fined $200 in Magistrates Court yesterday.
Sprinter Strachan 2nd in 200m
Fresh off her third place finish in the 100 metres behind Olympic and world champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce a week ago, Bahamian sprinter Anthonique Strachan racked up a second place as they moved up to the 200m behind her Jamaican arch rival over the weekend.
Diamond Basketball Development Programme postponed
AFTER one week of intense instructional training, Terrance ‘Red Eye’ McSweeney said he’s not disappointed at all that he has had to halt his Diamond Basketball Development Programme.
Valerie Nesbitt continues to be model student athlete
VALERIE Nesbitt continues to be the model student athlete since she has reacclimated herself to the Ole Miss Rebels’ women’s basketball programme.
Moms, how much online privacy do you give your kids?
In the age of the internet and social media, just exactly how much privacy should children be allowed when it comes to online activities?
LIFE LINES: Optimism is an app
Sounds silly? Really it’s not. And perhaps if you think about it in terms of tech, just like the ones on your phone and that this particular app could help you be happier or less stressed, wouldn’t you want to instal it in that computer in your head, your brain?
Marissa means business: Young mother shares her secrets to success
Age should never be a barrier to you fulfilling your dreams. This is the firm belief of Marissa Coakley, who at age 22 is not only a young mother, but also a successful business owner and now an author.
A doctor’s life-or-death warning leads to ‘New Beginnings’ for Latoya: New garden service promotes healthy backyard farming
Latoya Hutchinson believes life has a unique way of showing us what is truly important and ultimately where our attentions should be directed. In her case, a serious health warning by a doctor led her to re-examining her lifestyle choices and eventually making major changes to how she viewed food.
Development Bank shows relaunch logo
Bahamas Development Bank (BDB) staff have celebrated the relaunch of the 42-year-old institution with a new logo. This features a multi-coloured hummingbird combining flashes of red, blue, green, yellow and pink. The new brand for the Bank was devel
'Many casualties' feared if GB put into lockdown
The government was yesterday warned that Grand Bahama’s private sector will suffer “a lot of casualties” if it implements an island-wide COVID-19 lockdown lasting “beyond a week or two”.Greg Laroda, the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce president, tol
Cruise line confirms CDC-delayed return
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line yesterday said US health authorities had left it with “no choice” but to delay its operational restart until October 1. The operator of the Grand Celebration and Grand Classica , which sail to Freeport and Nassau respect
Chamber talks trade with Cuban diplomat
The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) has met the new Cuban ambassador to discuss potential business and trade opportunities. Jeffrey N Beckles, the Chamber’s chief executive, and Charo Morley, its trade services manag
Andros tourism product built to tackle COVID-19
The eighth annual Andros Business Outlook conference will be held this Friday as the island and wider Bahamas continue the fight to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic. The event, which will be held under the theme, A new era: Resilience in the face
Monday, July 20
21 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Monday that there are 21 new cases of COVID-19. This comes after 15 new cases were reported on Sunday.
EDITORIAL: Bold decisions at a time when they are needed
WE said it was crunch time for Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis ahead of his national address yesterday – and the stakes only got higher as the country set a new single-day record for COVID-19 cases.
WORLD VIEW: Guyana political circus has outrun its time
IT IS long past time for good sense to prevail in Guyana among the leadership of the APNU-AFC coalition that has been a caretaker government since the March 2 general and regional elections.
Emergency Medical Technician in New Providence tests positive for COVID-19
The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) has reported that an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) operating out of New Providence tested positive for COVID-19 after developing symptoms.
INSIGHT: Minnis warns of a marathon - but is Wells the right man to carry the baton?
WITHIN the past few months, the country has lost two of the most respected medical minds from the frontlines of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
INSIGHT: If black lives really matter, why are we killing each other, abusing our women and selling each other drugs?
In a period of severe racial unrest in the United States, Philadelphia-based pastor Gino Jennings, tells black people to stop giving bigots a reason to stereotype them.
Police hold Haitian with three passports
A HAITIAN man was arrested on Saturday morning after he was found with $11,000 in cash and three passports, police said. According to a police report, shortly before 7am police received information about a man at the Leonard Thompson International A
'Outages not related to load shedding'
BAHAMAS POWER and Light executives said the two system disturbances that left customers throughout New Providence without power on Friday were not related to load shedding. On Friday, the company reported that a fault on the transmission network cau
Heastie: We're on way to being self-sufficient
BAHAMAS POWER and Light CEO Whitney Heastie said he believes the company is well on its way to becoming self-sufficient and non-reliant on government funding. In a press conference at the company’s headquarters, Mr Heastie said BPL has executed a st
Pair arrested for breaking Saturday night curfew
NEW Providence police arrested two men for breaching the 10pm curfew on Saturday. According to reports, shortly after midnight, officers from the Operations Unit while patrolling Claridge Road noticed a black vehicle being driven. The officers’ susp
'Body blow' for tourism restart
The tourism industry’s revival has suffered “a body blow” by the continued Atlantis and cruise industry uncertainty, a Cabinet minister has conceded, as commercial travel to the US was yesterday cut-off. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and a
Bay Street sees 80% income loss extended longer
Eighty percent of the spending that kept Bay Street afloat has dried up via a cruise industry shutdown just extended to October 1, the Downtown Nassau Partnership’s (DNP) co-chair has revealed. Charles Klonaris told Tribune Business he does not fore
US travel shut down 'low-risk proposition'
The government’s move to close The Bahamas’ borders to all commercial transportation from the US was yesterday branded “a low-risk proposition” by the Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive. Jeffrey Beckles, pictured , told Tribune Business the decis
Arawak Cay just 25% recovered pre-new closure
Arawak Cay vendors had only recovered 25 percent of their pre-COVID business volumes prior to yesterday’s decision by the prime minister to shut the popular Fish Fry destination a second time.Rodney Russell, the Arawak Cay Association’s president, to
Grand Bahama isolated by new daily curfew
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis implemented a new daily curfew for Grand Bahama and banned international and domestic travel to and from the island, following a resurgence of COVID-19 cases there. During his national address yesterday, Dr Minnis sai
Wells in charge of health portfolio
BAMBOO Town MP Renward Wells will be sworn in today as the country’s newest minister of health, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced yesterday. As a result of the move, Dr Minnis said the Ministry of Transport will now fall under the portfolio
PM announces travel restrictions amid surge in COVID-19 cases
GIVEN the recent surge of COVID-19 cases in the country, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday banned all commercial flights and vessels from entering the country beginning on Wednesday with the exception of those coming from Canada, the United Kingdom and the European Union.
Robbery suspect shot by police
AN armed robbery suspect is in hospital after he was shot by police on Saturday.
Defence Force investigates groundings of two vessels
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force has launched a Board of Inquiry to assess the circumstances surrounding the recent groundings of two of their vessels.
Lashann Higgs will begin her pro basketball career in Spain
LASHANN Higgs will begin her pro basketball career in Spain.
ActivTrades: Change may be uncomfortable but we must embrace it
Altering habits isn’t easy, there is comfort in routine and change can be painful; we have all experienced, at various points in our lives, the disruption caused by it: the first day at a new school, a relationship break-up, changing jobs, etc.
Another 15 cases makes it the worst day so far
COVID-19 cases have surged to 153, with 15 additional cases reported yesterday alone, the country’s largest single day tally since the pandemic began. Nine new cases were reported on Saturday while five additional cases were reported on Friday. Dire
Inagua residents concerned by Haitian arrivals
INAGUA residents yesterday expressed anger over the government’s decision to allow some 20 Haitian migrants to be taken to the island after they were intercepted by US Coast Guard officials on Thursday. In a press statement, the RBDF said officials
Mike Sands has made considerable strides with NACAC confederation
SINCE coming into office last year, president Mike Sands has made considerable strides with members of the North American, Central American and Caribbean (NACAC) Confederation.
Grand Bahama hit by closure of all sporting activities
Prime Minister Hubert Minnis yesterday announced some recurring safety measures to try and help curtail the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in New Providence and Grand Bahama.
I'm glad my two boys now manage to get some sleep
I was depressed and fighting despair.
A bitter but effective dose
Individual rights and freedoms are so sacrosanct that the framers of our constitution made it the third chapter, right behind declaring itself to be the supreme law of the land and the convoluted definition of citizenship.
South Andros resort in November return
A South Andros resort has joined a 500-member luxury hotel association as it readies for a November 1 opening following renovations underway amid the COVD-19 pandemic. Wilfried Vincent, general manager of the Tiamo Resort, confirmed to Tribune Busin
Bahamian aids focus over compliance risks
A Bahamian compliance professional was part of a panel that examined the growing risks created by operating and supply chain changes enforced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Cheryl Bazard, pictured, featured in the discussion led by Risk Assisting Network
Exuma companies eye road project spin-offs
Exuma businesses are hoping a project to upgrade ten miles of the island’s roads will provide a much-needed boost to the economy and employment amid ongoing COVID-19 struggles.Caribbean Pavement Solutions (CPS), a Bahamas Striping Group of Companies
NIB: Over 7,000 jobless benefit claims 'stalled'
The National Insurance Board (NIB) is urging more than 7,000 approved unemployment benefit (UEB) claimants to verify they are still jobless so that payments can be released. The social security system, in a statement, said these benefits - which are
Sunday, July 19
BPL / SKYGuard Long Range Tropical Weather Development Forecast(s)
Sunday 19th July – Monday 20th July
PM announces international travel restrictions, 15 new COVID-19 cases
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced on Sunday that international commercial flights and commercial vessels carrying passengers will not be permitted to enter the Bahamas from Wednesday unless they are from Canada, the UK or the European Union.
Saturday, July 18
Nine new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Saturday that there are nine new cases of COVID-19.
Man shot by police during chase
A man is in hospital after being shot by police during a chase early on Saturday.
Friday, July 17
Relatives remember 'giving and honest' Alveta Russell
ALVETA Russell, 71, the lady who was found dead in a pond in South Ocean Village, was remembered by relatives on Friday as a “giving and honest woman”, who was kind to all who knew her.
BUT president hits out over lack of consultation on school dates
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson has criticised the Ministry of Education for not consulting teachers on the dates for the re-opening of schools after it was revealed that teaching lessons for students will begin in late September.
Man fined for attack by Pit Bulls
THE owner of three Pit Bulls that attacked a woman earlier this year was fined $3,150 in the Magistrate's Court on Friday and the dogs were ordered to be “put down.”
Two fined for drug possession
An ex-convict who claimed he was selling marijuana because he could not find a job was fined $500 in the Magistrate's Court on Friday.
Restaurants can now open until 9pm
RESTAURANTS can now operate between 5 AM and 9 PM daily as stated in an update in the emergency powers order on Friday.
15 month sentence for carrying unlicensed firearm
A 27-year-old man who claimed he carried an unlicensed firearm because he had to get food for his family was sentenced to 15 months in prison on Friday.
Power outage hits New Providence
Many parts of New Providence were affected by power outages on Friday after a fault resulted in the Big Pond Primary Substation and Blue Hills Power Station going offline.
Man gets 12 months probation for assault and threats
A 34-year-old man was placed on 12 months probation after he admitted to assaulting and threatening to kill another man earlier this week.
Rotarians 'give a little hope' with food distribution in Freeport
ROTARIANS on Grand Bahama were out again on the weekend packing food parcels for distribution to needy families in the Freeport area.
$20,000 grant funding for beekeepers affected by Dorian
BEEKEEPER entrepreneurs on Grand Bahama severely affected by Dorian received $20,000 grant funding from the government to help rebuild their apiary businesses, State Minister for Grand Bahama Senator Kwasi Thompson announced on Friday.
Five new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Friday that there are five new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
EDITORIAL: Time for big decisions, Dr Minnis
IT’S crunch time for Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis when he gives his national address on Sunday.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Welcome back, Tellis - now you have the toughest job of your life
Standards Inspector of Security Forces. It’s an impressive title and to the best of my knowledge had not been bestowed on anyone before July 1 when it was handed with all the layers it entails to the former Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Tellis A Bethel.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Too late to bolt the barn door?
OVER the past few days, I have thought on the meaning of that old idiom “closing the barn door after the horse is gone”.
Residents alarm after car crash
Residents in the Prince Charles Drive area are voicing their concerns on road safety after a car crashed into someone’s yard and caught on fire last weekend. Melissa Darville, 45, described the ordeal to The Tribune as a “hectic, chaotic, scary nigh
'Spend your money at home' urges Chamber chief Beckles
CHAMBER of Commerce CEO Jeffrey Beckles believes the best way for Bahamians to help the economy grow right now is to comply with COVID-19 protocols, shop at home and vacation domestically.Mr Beckles, speaking to The Tribune yesterday, said due to the
Hospital policy on seeing newborn babies is 'cruel'
A PRINCESS Margaret Hospital policy preventing parents from seeing their newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit is “unusual and cruel,” says Alicia Wallace, director of the human rights group Equality Bahamas.She said many NICUs around the worl
Atlantis postpones reopening
Atlantis announced on Friday that it will postpone its reopening “as the growing number of confirmed COVID-19 cases reported across the resort’s key US markets continues to rise”.
Potcake gets a home - thanks to good samaritans
SEVERAL years after his home was destroyed by a fire, local street philosopher Locksley “Potcake” Thompson now has a place to sleep peacefully at night and live comfortably thanks to good Samaritans. Speaking to The Tribune yesterday, Potcake said h
Citizen group calls for oil licences to be cancelled
A ‘grassroots coalition of concerned Bahamian citizens’ is opposed to oil exploration drilling in Bahamian waters, and is strongly urging Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to cancel all existing licences and reject proposals for renewals. Members of Ou
Pizza Hut sanitised and reopened after employee tested positive
PIZZA Hut in Grand Bahama has reopened for business following a complete sanitisation of its premises on the Mall Drive, Freeport after one of its employees last week tested positive for COVID-19. The fast-food restaurant resumed operations on Wedn
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 17th July: Freeport
STARTS: 07/17/2020 5:00 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/17/2020 7:00 PM EDT
UPDATED: Power outage now affecting customers in west and southwest
Bahamas Power and Light has isolated the problem which caused the power outages currently affecting New Providence and restoration efforts are underway.
Union fails to prevent Lucayan’s job losses
A major obstacle to the Grand Lucayan’s sale was this week eliminated by the Supreme Court’s denial of an injunction bidding to block the terminations of around 175 staff.
'Time to discipline untruthful lawyers'
An individual attorney and Bahamian law firm have been cited for contempt of court by a Supreme Court judge, who blasted: “The time is ripe to discipline these untruthful lawyers.” Justice Indra Charles, pictured , in a scathing July 6 verdict, blas
'Better July than 2019' won't cover $2m COVID loss
A Harbour Island hotelier yesterday revealed that while his resort may “ironically enjoy a better July than last year” it will not make up for the $2m lost during the COVID-19 lockdown, Benjamin Simmons, proprietor of The Other Side and Ocean View p
Opponents bid to 'shed light' on Briland project
Opponents of a controversial Harbour Island marina project are hoping to force its ex-project manager to “shed light” on whether its permits are non-compliant with government approvals processes.Br-Island Responsible Development Association (BIRD), i
GB businesses urge Florida travelling ban
Grand Bahama businesses yesterday urged the government to block Bahamians travelling to Florida to prevent another island-wide COVID-19 lockdown. Greg Langstaff, owner of the Grand Bahama Brewing Company, told Tribune Business : “Unfortunately, just
5 MORE CASES: Another two travel infected added to week’s rising tally
THE Bahamas recorded five new COVID-19 cases yesterday as the Office of the Prime Minister announced that Dr Merceline Dahl-Regis, the face of the government’s COVID-19 response, is leaving her post next week.
‘One rule for all please’
BAHAMIAN restaurant owners are urging Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to extend privileges evenly, not selectively during the COVID-19 state of emergency.
Two charged with drug possession
A MAN who was caught with over two ounces of marijuana was fined $500 in court yesterday.Alfred McKinney appeared in Magistrates Court before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with possession of Indian hemp with the intent to supply, afte
Chris Lewis elected president of BPGA
AS the Bahamas Professional Golfers Association (BPGA) emerged from its hiatus over the Independence holiday weekend, Grand Bahama Chris Lewis was elected as president to usher in a new era over the next two years.
THE PRESS BOX – Naughty: ‘Let there be sports, of any kind’
ADMITTEDLY I’m in coaching withdrawal, I miss coaching 10-U baseball.
BBF on senior men’s national basketball team
THE Bahamas Basketball Federation’s senior men’s national basketball team programme continues its development despite uncertainty of the FIBA AmeriCup qualification due to COVID-19.
More than 4,000 seek repairs help
OVER 4,000 people have registered for the Disaster Reconstruction Authority’s Small Homes Repair programme in Abaco and Grand Bahama, with more than $4m spent by the authority so far on the initiative. The figures were revealed by DRA’s managing dir
Anger classes order after smashing TV
A WOMAN was placed on 12 months’ probation and ordered to attend anger management classes after she admitted to damaging her estranged husband’s television during a domestic dispute last week.Odesia McKinney, 46, was accused of damaging Roy McKinney’
$400 fine for leaving home without mask
A 26-year-old man was fined $400 for leaving his home without a face mask during the curfew hours.Corderro Young was charged after officers found him near Cyprus Court around 2.45am on July 13. He pleaded guilty during his arraignment before Deputy C
Thief admits stealing from woman on beach
A 28-year-old man was yesterday ordered to compensate a woman $153 after he admitted to stealing her items from a local beach last week. Sheroy Mackey appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes after he was accused of stealing a $600 iPho
Bahamas should take advantage
The COVID-19 pandemic has etched itself in the annals of history as it is defining public health, global economies, work environments, family life and everyday social interactions.
The bonds that tie
It is a pure fact that family bonds can last a lifetime.
Jones nominated for NCAA Woman of the Year Award
GRAND Bahamian versatile athlete/beauty queen Celine Jones may have lost her number one supporter, her father Oral ‘Big O’ Jones, after her freshman season at Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Miller-Uibo named to newly created TAA Board
Bahamian Olympic champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo was among a list of 24 athletes named to the newly created board called The Athletics Association (TAA) that was formed to safeguard the global interest of track and field athletes.
Attorneys urging full Magistrate reopening
Lawyers yesterday urged the Magistrate’s Court to restart the issuance of summonses and setting court dates, describing the current situation as akin to “tumbleweeds in the streets”. Mario McCartney, managing partner of Lex Justis Chambers, told Tri
Financial firm marks its 10th anniversary
A Bahamian financial services provider with over $800m in assets under administration has enjoyed a socially-distanced 10th anniversary celebration due to COVID-19. Sean K Longley, Leno’s founder and president, said: “Ten years ago, when we had look
Understudies unlock qualities in all ages
Mentorship is not a new term in our corporate environment. For centuries we have had formal and informal mentors teaching, training and preparing the next generation of leaders. Mentorship is typically defined as the relationship in which a more expe
Thursday, July 16
EDITORIAL: A history of travel that could impact our future
THERE are three words that show the nature of what we are battling in this latest spike of COVID-19 cases. Those are “history of travel”.
Two dead in separate shootings
TWO men were killed in separate shooting incidents that occurred just a few hours apart Thursday.
STATESIDE: Maybe, just maybe, Trump wants to walk away from it
A growing chorus of observers in the US feels that President Donald Trump is actually trying to lose the upcoming November election. Why else would he behave so counter to his best re-election prospects?
FRONT PORCH: From sea to shining sea the US has lost its lustre
America is sick. Some of its worse ills long ago metastasized and are so pervasive that they will only respond to dramatic change. White supremacy is an unyielding and entrenched power and bastion. Long-term demographic change will help to seriously address some of the worst features of white privilege.
Five new cases of COVID-19
Five new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on Thursday by the Ministry of Health.
Female passenger dies after car she was in crashes
A WOMAN is dead after a traffic accident on Blue Hill Road on Tuesday night, police said. Shortly before 9pm, police were called to the scene of a collision between a white Nissan Skyline and a green Nissan March. An examination of the scene reveal
Students blame professor for not being allowed to graduate
SOME University of The Bahamas culinary students are up in arms as they were not allowed to graduate last month, claiming a professor failed to submit their course grades in time. One of the students spoke to The Tribune under condition of anonymity
Staff payroll delay at ZNS criticised as ‘disrespectful’
A PAYROLL delay at ZNS has led the union representing staff at the state broadcaster to label management as “disrespectful” due lack of earlier notice about the hiccup.
PM tours construction site
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and Minister of Tourism Dionisio D’Aguilar toured the Goldwynn boutique hotel construction site on West Bay Street yesterday. Construction on the $120 million project has resumed after a temporary stop due to COVID-19
Abaco remains in state of disrepair, says migration group
IN its latest situation report, the International Organisation for Migration says Abaco remains in a state of disrepair. “The IOM field reports that Abaco remains in a state of disrepair, with many homes lacking sufficient infrastructure to navigate
'This incident will do more harm than good to the country'
THE Progressive Liberal Party blamed Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday after three tourists accused of violating his COVID-19 emergency orders were discharged. Ikrame Kanane, 25, Rana Kenawy, and Mariam Mohamed Hassen, 18, made headlines whe
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 16th July: Nassau 4.30pm-6.30pm
STARTS: 07/16/2020 4:30 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/16/2020 6:30 PM EDT
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 16th July: Freeport
STARTS: 07/16/2020 3:20 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/16/2020 5:20 PM EDT
Oil deal cuts BPL bills 30%: Families windfall as long-term fuel buy saves $150m
Bahamas Power & Light's (BPL) newly-executed fuel hedging strategy will save hard-pressed consumers and the wider economy some $150m over 18 months, senior officials disclosed yesterday.
Tourism staring at 'drip, drip' recovery
Tourism always knew its COVID-19 recovery would be “drip, drip”, a senior official said yesterday, as he revealed that “off the hook” Family Island interest is starting to translate into actual bookings. Kerry Fountain, the Bahamas Out Island Promot
GB 'devastation' fears if COVID lockdown returns
The government was yesterday warned that any “knee jerk reaction” to place Grand Bahama back into total lockdown over the recent COVID-19 surge will be “devastating” for the island’s economy.Carey Leonard, the former Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA
GB marina chief: No boaters turned away
A Grand Bahama marina yesterday denied that any visiting boaters were being turned away despite the closure of its Port Lucaya Marina affiliate. Preben Olesen, the Grand Bahama Yacht Club’s (GBYC) principal, said it will be receiving all boats and y
Central Bank rethinks overseas data storage
The Central Bank has conceded that Hurricane Dorian’s devastation has prompted a rethink on permitting its financial institution licensees to store confidential client data overseas. The monetary regulator, in its analysis of the “lessons” learned f
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 16th July: Nassau
STARTS: 07/16/2020 2:27 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/16/2020 4:00 PM EDT
Parents ask for more face-to-face lessons
AMID uncertainty surrounding the re-opening of schools, some parents say they want officials to consider resuming face-to-face instruction, but with strict health guidelines. The parents say they do not support the implementation of a blended learning environment.
Police relocations ‘not linked to party’
DEPUTY Commissioner of Police Ismella Davis-Delancey is leading an investigation into a video of people staging a party in a courtroom, according to Police Commissioner Paul Rolle.
Bahamasair flight attendant tests positive for COVID-19, three new cases in New Providence
A BAHAMASAIR flight attendant tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday as health officials announced three new COVID-19 cases in New Providence yesterday, including two with a history of travel.
Sewing classes to help the residents
PATRICIA Minnis has thrown her support behind the launch of a sewing programme in the Over-the-Hill community, aimed at economic empowerment of residents. The programme, which provides free sewing classes, was launched on Monday, July 13, at the Cen
Fined $1,500 for growing marijuana plants
A 40-year-old man who said he cultivated marijuana plants because he wanted to see how they grew was fined $1,500 in court yesterday. Devaughn Culmer was charged with cultivating marijuana and being in possession of a quantity of Indian hemp with th
Man, 28, on murder charge
A 28-year-old man was charged with murder in Magistrates Court yesterday. Richard McNeil stood before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with the murder of Don Ramming on July 6. According to initial police reports, shortly before 6am on
Body of missing elderly woman found in pond
THE body of an elderly woman believed to be a person who was reported missing this week was discovered in a pond in South Ocean Village yesterday afternoon. The Tribune understands the victim is 71-year-old Alberta Russell. However, police did not r
It's sad to see people shackled
Please allow me to make a comment on a matter that has both puzzled and vexed me considerably for a number of years.
Time to find radical solutions
In June The international Monetary Fund projected that the world economy will contract by 4.9%.
‘Bubble Buddy': Chavano Hield speaks to media about life in the NBA bubble
Chavano “Buddy” Hield spoke to the media for the first time since his return to practice with his Sacramento Kings and discussed his experience with COVID-19 and life in the NBA bubble.
Bahamas teams in FIBA Under-17 Skills Challenge
A NEW initiative by FIBA will give the Bahamas another opportunity to compete at the international level against top basketball prospects throughout the world amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Local basketball leagues ready to return to court
LOCAL basketball is ready to return to the court and complete their 2020 season.
UB basketball begins to prep for upcoming season
THE University of the Bahamas Mingoes men’s basketball team has started conditioning in preparation for the upcoming season — whenever it happens.
Super Value chief praises COVID workplace guide
Super Value’s principal yesterday praised the Ministry of Health’s just-published COVID-19 workplace guidelines for trying to keep businesses such as his - which sees 400,000 customers per week - safe. Rupert Roberts told Tribune Business : “I think
BTC donates COVID protection equipment
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to more than ten organisations as it provides support for those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.The PPE includes branded BTC reusable masks, face shields, b
Laying out the road map for economic resilience
In his latest article, Hubert Edwards argues that The Bahamas must build a 'rainy day war chest' by giving growth and debt management equal priority Despite views to the contrary, more facilitative spending will be needed from the Government of
ART OF GRAPHIX: Designer says creativity given wings by church
Kristoff Rolle is not just a graphic designer, photographer or videographer, but a well-known presence on social media. Understanding that technology has no boundaries, he has an extraordinary talent and a mission to take online platforms and live st
51-year-old remanded over claims he had sex with girl, 13
A 51-year-old man was yesterday remanded to prison over allegations he had sex with a minor.Glenroy Lynes appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with one count of unlawful sexual intercourse, after he was accused of having sex
Wednesday, July 15
Three new cases of COVID-19 in New Providence, Bahamasair flight attendant tests positive
The Ministry of Health confirmed on Wednesday that there are three new cases of COVID-19 in New Providence.
EDITORIAL: Faking test results can harm us all
THERE are two parts to the measures we are using to prevent coronavirus. On one hand, there are the instructions on what we need to do to stop the virus spreading. On the other, there is the enforcement that needs to be done for those who break those rules.
ALICIA WALLACE: Will we ever learn to tolerate and celebrate every person no matter what their gender?
Bahamian drag performer Anastarzia “Starzy” Anaquway is on the popular television show Canada’s Drag Race. Starzy, who is 37 and now living in East York, Ontario, has won more than 15 pageants in 17 years of competition.
Moxey denies claims former workers are still employed
BAHAMAS Power and Light chairman Donovan Moxey denied claims that some employees who took disengagement packages from the company remain employed with the same benefits and salary, however, he told The Tribune they were re-engaged on a contractual ba
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 15 July: Freeport
STARTS: 07/15/2020 5:15 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/15/2020 8:00 PM EDT
Thompson calls on Grand Bahama residents to take COVID surge seriously
MINISTER of State for Grand Bahama Kwasi Thompson yesterday admitted he has received complaints that some residents returning to Grand Bahama from abroad have not been following self-isolation guidelines prescribed by officials to limit the spread of
Tourists discharged after claiming officer gave permission to go on beach
THREE American tourists who were accused of violating the COVID-19 emergency orders were discharged on Wednesday after they claimed an officer gave them permission to go on a local beach on Independence Day.
Monument unveiled in tribute to the victims of Dorian
DEPUTY Prime Minister Peter Turnquest encouraged the Grand Bahama Port Authority to complete the clean-up of communities in Grand Bahama, gently telling an audience during a ceremony yesterday that there remains too much debris on the island.He was s
MP's brother denies '$100k for influence'
An MP’s brother has denied he was promised $100,000 “for local influence” in helping to secure the necessary government permits for a controversial Harbour Island marina project. Michael Johnson, brother of Stephen “Hank” Johnson, the central and so
Opening hours 'fix' is top requirement
The Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive yesterday predicted that any discrepancies in business opening hours were likely to be addressed “very quickly”, adding: “What’s important is we fix it.”Jeffrey Beckles, speaking after it was revealed that th
Central Bank in 100% GDP wipe-out warning
The Central Bank yesterday warned the Bahamian economy would suffer a near-100 percent wipe-out if a Dorian-strength storm scores a direct hit on both New Providence and Grand Bahama.The regulator, unveiling its full report on the category five storm
Businesses facing 'cripplingly expensive' cash flow insurance
“Cripplingly expensive” business interruption cover, and “local” bank managers allowing borrowers to only protect their loan rather than property value, were key weaknesses exposed by Hurricane Dorian. The Central Bank, in its review of the “lessons
Bahamas urged to re-examine 'citizen investors'
A Bahamas-based contractor yesterday argued that this nation should re-examine introducing an “investor citizenship” initiative to help counter COVID-19’s negative impact.
FAKE COVID TESTS USED BY VISITORS
HEALTH officials say people have tried to enter the Bahamas with fake COVID-19 documents, prompting a police investigation.
Police increasing efforts to enforce emergency orders
AFTER three tourists were filmed jumping a fence to get to Cabbage Beach, National Security Minister Marvin Dames maintained yesterday that anyone found in breach of the COVID-19 emergency orders will suffer the consequences. This also applies to tourists, he said.
Problems? ‘Exams are going well’
EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd yesterday dismissed claims that the national BJC and BGCSE exams had experienced some operational challenges on their first day of sitting, insisting “the examinations went on very well” despite allegations otherwise.
Driver without mask fined after he is pulled over
A 43-year-old man was yesterday fined $200 for failing to wear a mask while he was outside of his home. Bernard Cooper was accused of committing the offence while driving along West Bay Street around 11.35pm on July 9. He pleaded guilty to violating
Bail denied to man accused of throwing acid
A 20-year-old man who was accused of throwing acid on a woman during an altercation last year was denied bail in Magistrates Court yesterday. Audley Martin was charged with causing harm and using a corrosive substance to harm Alanda Curtis on June 1
Hosting birthday party with 200 guests will cost Jamaican man $1,000
A JAMAICAN man was fined $1,000 yesterday after he admitted to hosting a party with nearly 200 guests in defiance of the physical distancing protocols outlined in the COVID-19 emergency orders. Lamar Walters, 23, was accused of allowing more than 30
Police hunt armed robber
POLICE are looking for a suspect who committed an armed robbery on Monday. According to reports, shortly after 8pm a man was leaving his home situated off Golden Isles Road when he was accosted by a gunman who robbed him of his wallet and cell phone
You won't see me again, man promises court
A man was yesterday fined $300 after officers found a quantity of marijuana in his bathroom earlier this month. Peter McBride, 59, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes charged with simple drug possession after officers found 2.18 ou
Summer success season is getting underway
College-bound students face a great deal of uncertainty about their future because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Who would have thought that in 2020, students would take their graduation photos wearing masks, that graduation ceremonies would be online instead of in-person, and that many of them would be unsure if or when they would be able to go off to college?
$30m spent so far to assist Abaco
BAHAMAS Power and Light has spent over $30 million to date on Abaco’s power restoration efforts, according to the company’s chief operations officer, with full restoration expected by September. During a virtual press conference yesterday, Ian Pratt
Fined $25 for selling coconuts on the street
A 20-year-old man was yesterday fined $25 for selling mangoes, coconut water and coconut jelly on the side of the street without a permit. Marvin Joseph appeared before Magistrate Kara Turnquest-Deveaux charged with one count of hawking, after he wa
Time to stop this unjust destruction of Bahamas family life
“SO God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.” Genesis 1 v27 NIV translation.
Enlightened comments
In your July 9th 2020 edition there appeared a most enlightening and important letter under the heading ‘How we could have prevented pandemic’. I hope as many Bahamians as possible have read this contribution as it is invaluable. I, for one, learned many things I didn’t know about vaccines.
‘Lately, I’ve been getting too many back and forth positive and negative tests’
HE would prefer to be on the field in Miami, Florida, preparing to crack the line-up for the Miami Marlins for the upcoming 2020 Major League Baseball season on July 23.
‘Get Better Basketball Camp’ rocks Carmichael
WITH so much time on their hands to spare, former basketball player Jason Edgecombe said he decided to stage the ‘Get Better Basketball Camp’ to help improve the skills of the young boys in the Carmichael Road community.
Moxey named head coach of volleyball team in Raleigh
The rich legacy of Bahamian student-athletes and coaches continued at Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) in Raleigh, North Carolina with Tacara Moxey being named the head coach of the Falcons’ women’s volleyball team.
It’s the Power One Summer Basketball Camp
FOR the next four weeks, Neville ‘Manny’ Adderley will be holding court as he conducts his Power One Summer Basketball Camp at the St Gregory’s Anglican Church on Carmichael Road.
Babe Ruth: New post for Greg Burrows Sr
GREG Burrows Sr, founder of Freedom Farm Baseball, has ascended to one of the top positions of the prestigious Babe Ruth organisation as the Commissioner with responsibility for the Caribbean.
Paradise Cruise delay 'probably for the best'
Businesses yesterday said Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s (BPCL) delayed return to Grand Bahama is probably for the best given the surge in COVID-19 cases in Florida. Wayne Russell, general manager of BWA Suppliers, told Tribune Business : “This is p
Contractors impatient for the promised 'flood'
Bahamian contractors yesterday said they are getting impatient for the “flood” of construction work promised by the government’s $515m capital works budget as projects dry up amid COVID-19. Jacob Fowler, owner/operator of C-Jays Building Constructio
Air charter firms see 80% fall-off
Domestic travel has yet to produce a significant rebound for Bahamian airlines and charter operators, with some suffering an 80 percent drop-off despite the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. Lori Roach, director of Golden Wings Charter, told
Tuesday, July 14
Laying out the road map for economic resilience
In the latest of his series, Hubert Edwards says growth must be The Bahamas' focus amid the COVID-19 quagmire If the problems faced by The Bahamas are to be solved in a sustainable way, it is critical there should be a proper problem definition.
EDITORIAL: Why are safety measures not in place for students?
Across the country, parents are looking ahead to the next school year – and worrying. Having already dealt with children at home through the lockdown, the concern now is what comes next? Will schools be able to deal safely with children once more?
FACE TO FACE: In music, Antonia found an escape and a place to chase her dreams
The Independence holiday was a good time to sit and reflect on our nation, look at the good and the bad, and determine what we can do individually, as well as together, to help make our country great.
Police target bars where social distancing is missing
POLICE have been targeting bars whose owners have not been enforcing social distancing protocols or adhering to curbside liquor sales, police press liaison officer ASP Audley Peters said yesterday. “Over the weekend, persons were not adhering to the
Police probe reports that officers shot several dogs
KIM Aranha, the president of the Bahamas Humane Society, said she is disturbed by reports that police officers shot and killed several dogs that posed no threat to them last week. Details of the incident are scarce but Assistant Superintendent of Po
Draft bill on marijuana expected 'in short order'
A DRAFT bill on marijuana legislation is expected to be presented to Cabinet “in very short order,” Attorney General Carl Bethel said yesterday. However, Mr Bethel told The Tribune he could not give a definite timeline on the matter as he is still w
Three new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health revealed on Tuesday that there are three new cases of COVID-19.
Dion enjoys taking a different route to his college
AFTER being accepted to Georgia State University, 18-year-old Dion Brown never imagined he would have to face a different freshman experience unlike most students entering their first year of college. Having just graduated from Kingsway Academy high
Cable Bahamas axes 87 staff on furlough
Cable Bahamas' top executive yesterday admitted that hopes the COVID-19 crisis would "be short term" have been dashed as it permanently terminated 87 staff.
September eyed for temporary lay-off time extension
Government and private sector officials yesterday confirmed there is “much talk” about extending the temporary lay-off period to end-September to ease job pressures.John Pinder, pictured, the director of labour, and Peter Goudie, the Bahamas Chamber
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 14th July: Freeport
STARTS: 07/14/2020 2:55 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/14/2020 4:55 PM EDT
Pawn shops see business pick-up
Pawn shops yesterday said they were starting to see a business uptick as jobless Bahamians seek to unload gold and electronic goods for much-needed cash. Philippa Major, general manager of Cashwiz, told Tribune Business : “Business is coming in a li
QC: Abaco marina ruling ‘another nail in the coffin’
An outspoken QC yesterday slammed a Court of Appeal verdict involving an Abaco marina development as “another nail in the coffin of public interest litigation”.
Cable warily eyes $300m preference debt maturity
Cable Bahamas is warily eyeing the need to repay more than $300m in preference share debt over a five-year period from 2023 to 2027, its top executive said yesterday. Franklyn Butler, the BISX-listed communications provider’s president and chief exe
Judges quash double murder conviction
THE Court of Appeal has overturned the convictions of two men who were found guilty of kidnapping and murdering a senior immigration officer and his girlfriend in 2013.
Five days after one company secured hours extension, others to open til 9pm
THE Progressive Liberal Party has accused Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis of giving preferential treatment to the Myers Group by letting its restaurants remain open until 9pm while a general rule that businesses close by 8pm is in place.
Union raises concerns as exams get underway
THE first day of the sitting of the national BJC and BGCSE exams had some challenges, according to Bahamas Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson. The exams are controversially being held later than usual this year because of COVID-19 after months of school closures forced students to learn virtually.
Pizza Hut employee has COVID
A PIZZA Hut employee in Grand Bahama was revealed yesterday to have COVID-19 as deep cleaning of the CA Smith complex began because a migrant with COVID-19 was present on the premises.
All Comers Meet: Anthonique Strachan 3rd in 100m
BAHAMIAN Olympic sprinter Anthonique Strachan had to settle for a third place finish in the women’s 100 metres on Saturday at the Velocity Fest 2020 All Comers Meet at the Ashenheim Stadium.
Juvenile remanded over allegations he supplied cocaine
A JUVENILE was remanded to the Simpson Penn Centre for Boys over allegations he supplied cocaine to another person and was found with a quantity of marijuana he intended to sell. The 17-year-old appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes
Two on trial for running food services after 8pm
TWO men who denied operating separate restaurants past 8pm as specified in COVID-19 emergency orders have been granted bail ahead of their trials. Vernal Major, 43, appeared before Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes after he was accused of operat
Gunman robs woman of cash
POLICE are looking for a man who robbed a woman on Sunday. Shortly after noon, a woman was at Spikenard Road when she was accosted by a gunman who robbed her of cash. The suspect escaped in an unknown direction, police said. Police also made severa
Major roadworks set for Long Island
MAJOR road works will be carried out in Long Island in the coming weeks. According to the island’s MP, Adrian Gibson, various inspections have taken place over the past few months along Queen’s Highway to assess and determine the civil works require
Son admits threatening to kill father
A 28-year-old man was ordered to attend grief and anger management classes after he admitted to threatening to kill his father during an altercation over the weekend. Chavargo Woodside appeared before Deputy Chief Andrew Forbes charged with one coun
Every donation makes a difference
Every little helps in these difficult times and for Hilltop Cottage Ministries they were grateful for every donation to their efforts to help feed needy families. Representatives of the Righteous Remnant Ministry International from Bolton, North Car
Building its fleet
THE Public Hospitals Authority is continuing to build its fleet of emergency vehicles in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian last year. The devastating storm significantly impacted the National Emergency Medical Services’ ambulance fleet, destroying a
PETER YOUNG: Sorry Harry, your attack on the Commonwealth was ill-informed and inaccurate
It was wholly predictable that the content of remarks by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at a recent discussion with young leaders from the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust would cause controversy. In a video released last week and distributed around the world, Harry and Meghan - who are respectively president and vice president of this Trust - were seen talking about the Commonwealth in a way many people consider could undermine it.
We need to find a new way to develop
The Bahamas requires an entirely new way of thinking about economic growth and development, and a new approach to structuring and operating its economy that can only be had by implementing innovative development economics and innovative development finance.
Our system is leading people to fail
Once again, the national exams are around the corner and students are in preparation mode.
‘Buddy’ joins Kings in bubble
Chavano “Buddy” Hield cleared the initial COVID-19 protocol and joined the remainder of the Sacramento Kings in Orlando, Florida, for the NBA 2020 season restart.
Diamond League Basketball Camp gets underway
MARCIA Hall and Reyanah Green were the first two participants to attend the Diamond League Basketball Camp that got underway yesterday at the Hope Center Church.
Tureano Johnson on list for Alvarez Fight
TUREANO Johnson has been added to a list of potential opponents for middleweight champion and super middleweight titleist Canelo Alvarez.
Cruise line postpones its return to August 28
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line yesterday said it has further postponed its operational restart until August 28 amid a surge in US COVID-19 infections. The operator of the Grand Celebration and Grand Classica vessels, which sail to Freeport and Nassau
Scotiabank unveils 'cashless' branches
Scotiabank Bahamas has launched a “cashless” branch pilot initiative at four of its New Providence locations as its digital drive gathers pace. Roger Archer, the institution’s managing director, said its Nassau main (Rawson Square), Palmdale, Paradi
John Watling's rebrands COVID-19 hand sanitiser
John Watling’s Distillery has relaunched the hand sanitiser created to combat COVID-19 under the Buena Vista Estate name. Just three months after its initial launch, the company said it has has partnered with Blanco Chemicals to locally source spray
Financial provider set to restart consumer loans
A Bahamian financial services provider yesterday said it will re-start consumer lending to private sector employees this week. Laquel Miller, Simplified Lending’s chief operating officer, said in a statement: “We at Simplified Lending believe that o
Monday, July 13
Two new cases of COVID-19 in Grand Bahama
The Ministry of Health announced on Monday that there are two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Grand Bahama.
UPDATED: Shaunae finishes second in 150m
American Allyson Felix came out on top in her rematch with Bahamian Olympic 400 metre champion Shaunae Miller-Uibo as they competed against Switzerland’s Mujinga Kambundji in the 150m at the Welklasse Zurich Inspirational Games on Thursday.
EDITORIAL: Power supply in peril — and it’s time for government to act
FOR a number of hours over the weekend, residents in the Winton area experienced a power outage. It wasn’t load shedding this time, rather that the substation there had tripped offline – but for residents sitting with no lights and no air conditioning, there was little difference.
INSIGHT: Putting the lives of broken children back together
WHILE children who have suffered from abuse and trauma are more likely to become violent adults, studies prove that early intervention can decrease the likelihood of them spiralling into a life of crime and violence.
INSIGHT: A radical voice on money-grabbing pastors, gays and women in the church
In a world where many religious institutions have evolved into mere money making organisations, where ministers live in million dollar houses, are chauffeur driven and have huge bank accounts, Philadelphia-based pastor, Gino Jennings believes these churches are worse than organised crime - practising deception at its worst and conning their congregations.
INSIGHT: What choice do we have? After all the years of independence we only have one hand to play
DESPITE the borders reopening, the country is still reeling with the coronavirus pandemic surging just next door to us. As we welcomed in the country’s 47th birthday, we also have been welcoming potentially thousands of tourists. Even with the US being hammered by COVID-19 with single-day records, with states competing to see who will clock in the highest numbers at day’s end, the government intends to take their chances.
24-year-old driver dies after losing control
24-year-old Philip “PJ” Rolle lost his life on Independence Day when he seemingly lost control of his car and crashed into a concrete wall in Exuma. Although police did not release his identity, a Tribune source in Exuma identified Mr Rolle of Rolle
Freeport Pizza Hut staff member tests positive for COVID-19
Pizza Hut in Freeport is closed until Wednesday after a member of its staff tested positive for COVID-19. I
Sir Randol awarded top honour
GOVERNMENT House has announced the recipients of National Honours this year, with former labour leader Sir Randol Fawkes given the posthumous top honour of the Order of National Hero. Dubbed the “father of labour” Sir Randol pushed for the establish
Operation Sovereign Bahamas takes to the streets
OPERATION Sovereign Bahamas held a march through the streets of New Providence on Independence Day over a myriad of issues. The march, organised by a team including former radio talk show host Adrian Francis and attorney Maria Daxon, called for “no
Three female US tourists climb locked fence at Cabbage Beach
THREE female tourists from the United States jumped a locked fence at the entrance of Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island on Friday. The women, who are from Boston, told a local news station they travelled to the Bahamas for the beach and were not dete
Stuart Cove: 'I'm no quitter'
A leading Bahamian excursion provider expects to resume business today with less than 10 percent of pre-COVID volumes, as he pledged: “I’m no quitter.” Stuart Cove, principal of Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas, told Tribune Business “we should probably n
BPL bailout has cost us millions: Bannister warns mountain of bills must be tackled
The Government was forced to pump "millions" into Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) during COVID-19's peak due to customers' inability to pay, it was revealed yesterday.
BISX targets $3.6bn Gov't debt 'springboard'
The Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) plans to use its capture of the Government’s $3.6bn debt market as “a springboard” to attract further listings. Keith Davies, its chief executive, told Tribune Business that the exchange aimed to
Barbados takes lead in filling 'tourism gap'
A Cabinet minister yesterday said The Bahamas “must be creative” in filling COVID-19’s “tourism gap” as Barbados moves to allow visitors to stay for one year. Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, while revealing that The Bahamas has
Grand Bahama COVID cases are hard ‘wake up call’
FOLLOWING the sudden spike in COVID-19 cases on Grand Bahama, Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest is urging residents to keep their “guard up”’ He said it is important that residents strictly adhere to the COVID-19 protocols to stop the spread of the virus. Six cases were recorded within one week on the island, while the country recorded seven cases overall last week. Health officials are conducting contact tracing.
Funding for students to study abroad put on hold
THE Ministry of Education has announced that it will not give new scholarships for international studies for the 2020/2021 year due to funding constraints. This includes scholarships to the University of the West Indies, among other institutions.
ActivTrades: The story behind the decisions that lead to war
The history of mankind, has to a large extent been that of its wars, with the winners of any conflict invariably finding themselves in the privileged position of being able to immortalize their own version of the events.
Staff face probe after video shows court party
TOP judiciary officials are investigating a video of people - some who appear to be court staff - staging a party in a courtroom.
Leonard ‘Boston Blackie’ Miller, 82, laid to rest
IT’S a pity that after all Leonard ‘Boston Blackie’ Miller did for the Bahamas as a national and international sporting icon in boxing and cycling and as a respected mentor, coach and philanthropist, he didn’t get what he deserved.
Vaccine unlikely to solve pandemic
A report out of China - a herd man has caught the Bubonic Plague. A 15-year-old girl from neighbouring Mongolia also has the Bubonic Plague. In May a Kazakhstan couple who visited Mongolia died. The US Centre for Disease Control (CDC) says every year in the US, seven people are infected with the Bubonic Plague. The Bubonic Plague is a 14th century that killed 50 million people. Although thought to be eradicated the Bubonic Plague still kills people in the 21st century.
Chisholm makes his debut in camp for Marlins
AS the Major League Baseball season nears the start to its 2020 season, Jazz Chisholm made his debut in camp for the Miami Marlins.
Deyton, Garreth make their presence felt in South Carolina
COACH Jamal Smith liked what he saw in the reunion of guard Deyton Albury and forward Garreth Edgecombe at the Big Shots Myrtle Beach Tournament in South Carolina over the weekend.
Ballin’ By Da Beach Basketball Camp may be postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic
BALLIN’ By Da Beach Basketball Camp may be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the organisation will ensure that its participants continue to benefit from its network of partners.
RBDF officer among those arrested for possession of drugs
A ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force officer was among several people arrested on Friday and accused of drug possession. Shortly after 1pm on Friday, officers from the Operations Unit while patrolling Lewis Street, observed the occupants of a silver Honda
WORLD VIEW: A new world faces CARICOM countries - how will they embrace it?
GOVERNMENTS around the world, including in Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries, have emerged as the principal players in the health and economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The private sector, for the most part, has taken a back seat with many companies turning inwards and concentrating on safeguarding their own survival, rather than playing a broader role.
World is on fire and we are a disgrace
The world is on fire, raging around us. Corona virus. Economic dystopia. A dying biosphere. Threats of nuclear war. Global warming. Rising sea levels. Here at home, there is “Confusion in the Senate” a “Clash in the House”, and an inability to come to grips with reality and pressing issues which Bahamians are paying for dearly.
Delight for more than 600 families who are back in their newly-repaired homes
WITH the support of the Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Foundation and its partners the Rotary Clubs of Grand Bahama, over 600 families are now back in their newly repaired homes since Dorian. GBDRF, the charitable arm of the Grand Bahama Port Authorit
Authorities 'comfortable' on foreign reserves tools
The deputy prime minister has reassured that the Government and Central Bank have further “tools” they can deploy to prevent a Bahamian dollar devaluation. K Peter Turnquest said the Bahamas’ foreign currency reserves, which closed June 2020 just be
Bahamians drive Out Island tourism restart
Bahamians are driving the “slow” resumption of hotel bookings in the Family Islands as the country gradually re-opens following the COVID-19 lockdown.Leslie Kennedy, general manager of the Pigeon Cay Beach Club on Cat Island, told Tribune Business: “
Laying out the roadmap for economic resilience
The UK-based Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES) outlines ten indicators that can be used to determine whether an area, or country, is resilient. The first three of these are the strength of the commercial sector; strength of the public secto
Borrowers reassured: Credit bureau 'won't go back in time'
The Central Bank’s governor has promised Bahamian borrowers that the country’s first-ever credit bureau will “not go back in time” to look at their repayment history. John Rolle disclosed that the credit bureau, which will be operated and managed by
Saturday, July 11
Three new cases of COVID-19 on Grand Bahama
The Ministry of Health confirmed on Saturday that there are three new cases of COVID-19 in Grand Bahama.
Man dies in Exuma crash
Police are investigating after a man died in a traffic accident in Exuma on Friday night.
Man in custody after boy indecently assaulted
A man is in custody after a boy was indecently assaulted at a party in New Providence on Friday night.
Friday, July 10
FRIDAY UPDATE: One new case of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health announced on Friday that there is a new confirmed case of COVID-19.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 10th July: Nassau
STARTS: 07/10/2020 4:14 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/10/2020 9:00 PM EDT
Thursday, July 9
New case of COVID-19 in Grand Bahama
The Ministry of Health announced on Thursday that there is one additional confirmed case of COVID-19 on Grand Bahama.
BUT president: Union yet to receive plan for schools reopening
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers (BUT) Belinda Wilson said the union has yet to receive a plan or framework from the Ministry of Education for the reopening of schools.
Teachers received naked pictures, obscene voice notes on online learning platform
TEACHERS have received naked pictures and voice notes with obscene language from students during virtual learning, revealed Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) President Belinda Wilson.
EDITORIAL: Beach closure explanation just doesn't add up
AT long last, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis spoke up yesterday to explain why he is closing the beaches for the Independence holiday.
STATESIDE: Trump has become the reality he railed against four years ago
The other day someone wrote “Trump 2020” in big yellow chalk letters in the middle of a street in an upscale New York neighbourhood. Within an hour, that slogan had been erased and BLM (Black Lives Matter) had replaced it, also written in chalk.
FRONT PORCH: PM has our safety at heart - nothing more sinister than that
In an impassioned communication in the House of Assembly yesterday, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis pleaded with Bahamians and residents to better appreciate and to take more seriously the current and potential long-term health consequences of COVID-19.
Virtual Independence programme airs on TV tonight
A four-hour, made-for-television, virtual Independence programme will air live from the studios of ZNS in New Providence and the Northern Bahamas tonight beginning at 8pm.
AG wants investigation over 'rummaging'
Attorney General Carl Bethel requested a police investigation after he said a stranger is suspected of rummaging through old tabled documents in the Senate. Speaking in the upper chamber yesterday, Mr Bethel recalled coming into the Senate and meeti
Bahamas keeps its Tier 1 status on human trafficking
FOR the sixth year in a row, The Bahamas has maintained its Tier 1 ranking from the US State Department for its compliance in helping to eliminate human trafficking.Announcing the news during a press conference yesterday, Minister of National Securit
Attorney unhappy client is held after protest
AN attorney has decried the arrest of her client who held a two man protest in Rawson Square and outside Government House, saying his rights are being violated. Paul Rolle was arrested on Tuesday after video circulated online of him in front of Chri
New cases a concern for some in Grand Bahama
WITH two new COVID-19 cases emerging in Grand Bahama, residents on the island have mixed feelings on whether the country should shut its borders to the US, which has emerged as “a global hotspot” for coronavirus infections. It is believed the island
University of The Bahamas will have at least 6,000 students, says Lloyd
EDUCATION Minister Jeffrey Lloyd announced in the House of Assembly that University of The Bahamas anticipates the institution’s enrolment will exceed 6,000 students this Fall. According to Mr Lloyd, Bahamian students seeking to further their educat
Auditor General's report calls for more staff in San Salvador
A NEWLY released auditor general’s report is calling for more staff to be hired at the post office in San Salvador to ensure appropriate staff segregation of duties after it was discovered that all postal transactions were being performed by only one
Symonette and Sands question approach
FORMER Minnis administration Cabinet ministers Dr Duane Sands and Brent Symonette appeared unconvinced yesterday by Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ decision to close beaches during the upcoming Independence Day holiday weekend. In a robust defense
'Opaque' dealings hit City Markets HQ sale
AML Foods is battling a series of “opaque” transactions as it seeks to uphold “the validity” of its $3m purchase of City Markets’ former headquarters building. The BISX-listed food retail and franchise group, in legal filings supporting its bid for
Parts of BPL network ‘not working optimally’
Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) chairman yesterday disclosed that parts of its grid “are not working optimally” due to the utility’s delayed $535m bond refinancing.
'Devastating' if COVID-19 finds its way to Exuma
Exuma’s Chamber of Commerce chief has warned it will be “devastating” for business and consumer confidence if the border re-opening brings COVID-19 to the island. Pedro Rolle told Tribune Business in a recent interview that many residents remained n
Trading volumes 'vital' to $3.6bn Gov't debt listing
Bahamian financial analysts yesterday said trading volumes will be “the critical factor” when $3.6bn in government bonds begin trading on the stock exchange today. Larry Gibson, vice-president of Colonial Pension Services (Bahamas), told Tribune Bus
Retailers reveal slow Independence sales
Retailers yesterday revealed sluggish Independence Day sales due to the continuing economic fall-out and uncertainty caused by COVID-19. Pedro Neely, owner of PC Smart Tees, told Tribune Business this was his first year of operations “but we’re tryi
TRUST ME: PM tries to persuade us he’s right
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said he closed parks and beaches for the Independence Day holiday weekend “out of an abundance of caution” and because “prevention is better than cure”. He said the healthcare system could melt down if he does not make such tough decisions, painting a picture of a country where rare diseases like mumps, rubeola and measles could emerge as immunisation levels drop if COVID-19 cases overcome the system.
Two walk free in 2016 killing
THE Court of Appeal yesterday overturned the murder and manslaughter sentences of two men accused of stabbing and killing another man in 2016, after the accused men argued that the trial judge failed to use his discretion when he allowed a statement from a witness who did not appear in court into evidence.
12 fishermen apprehended
TWELVE fishermen were apprehended in the central Bahamas for fisheries violations on Tuesday by members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force. While on routine patrol, patrol craft HMBS Lignum Vitae under the command of Senior Lieutenant Ricardo McQuee
Man charged with murder
A 23-year-old man was charged with murder in Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Shanfano Dean appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis charged with the murder of Jerone Thompson on March 28.According to initial police reports, shortly before
Too drunk to remember stealing cash from bar
A 48-year-old man was ordered to pay back a sum of money he stole from a bar earlier this year after he admitted to stealing the funds while he was under the influence of alcohol. Joseph Rolle appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis ch
PM's boogying history helps dictate curfew
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said no one can say whether he is right or wrong for imposing a 10pm to 5am curfew to prevent spread of COVID-19, admitting in the House of Assembly yesterday that there is no scientific basis for the decision to lockd
Restaurant pair admit trying to bribe police
TWO men were fined a collective $1,500 in Magistrate’s Court yesterday after they admitted to attempting to bribe two police officers to avoid being charged for operating a restaurant past the allotted time. Dennis Palomino, 51, and Michael Woodside,
When it comes to beaches, I think Caesar had it right
During my short stint in politics, the party with which I was affiliated, the SDP fought a by-election in South Eleuthera. At the time we found ourselves fighting not only the PLP, but also the BDP/FNM, but that is a story for another day.
How we could have prevented pandemic
SARS-CoV-2 is a new coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The virus has destroyed lives and brought the world to a grinding halt.
Miller-Uibo in 150m clash
Shaunae Miller-Uibo and American Allyson Felix will add another chapter to their rivalry today when they face off in a new initiative for World Athletics - the ‘Weltklasse Zurich Inspiration Games.
Raw Talent: Johnson to join pro basketball academy in France
THE Raw Talent organisation continues to provide an alternative path for young Bahamian athletes to professional basketball.
COVID-19 ‘affected my progression as a sprinter’
THE COVID-19 pandemic has presented a series of challenges to student athletes, particularly to outgoing high school seniors.
Fine after admitting marijuana possession
A 20-year-old man was ordered to pay a $2,500 fine after he pleaded guilty to marijuana possession with the intent to supply in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Jacobee Black appeared before Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis after officers seiz
BREAA: Illegal foreign broker fight top priority
The Bahamas Real Estate Association’s (BRWA) newly-elected president has pledged to make the fight against illegal sales by foreign brokers her top priority.Christine Wallace-Whitfield, the first woman to serve a record fourth term as BREA president,
Laying out the roadmap for economic resilience
The Bahamas highlighted its response to the COVID-19 crisis with a budget styled as Resilient Bahamas: A plan for restoration. Its three stated aims are to protect the well-being, and engender confidence, of citizens and residents; maintain economic
Sandyport resort confirms opening
Sandyport Beach Resort has confirmed its post-COVID-19 re-opening after its ‘Clean and Pristine’ plan was certified by the Ministry of Health. Cheralda Arnett, its assistant general manager, said: “We put a lot of thought into our safety measures fo
Bahamian attorney is STEP's world-leader
A Bahamian attorney has won the Society of Trust Estate Practitioners (STEP) Excellence Award after achieving a world-leading score in its exam.Nateisha Bain, a real estate attorney with Lennox Paton, obtained 2019’s highest score across in passing t
Bahamians are urged to 'acquire taste' for apps
Bahamians were yesterday urged to “acquire a taste for app development” and go beyond simple flyer promotions on Facebook or What’s App.Sherwin Johnson, president of Evo Bahamas, developer of the Bahamas Nightlife app, told Tribune Business: “App dev
Wednesday, July 8
EDITORIAL: Knocking down shanty towns alone won’t solve anything
IMMIGRATION and work permits have been thrown again into the spotlight – not least by the arrival of more than 100 Mexican workers bound for employment at Baker’s Bay, and the concern from the public over whether those were jobs that could have been done by Bahamians instead.
ALICIA WALLACE: When we are having a difficult conversation - are we really listening?
Over the past few months, I have been facilitator and participant in scores of conversations. In most cases, they were informal, but generative.
Bannister: No load shedding this summer
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister yesterday expressed confidence that there will be no load shedding across New Providence this summer. He said “we have more generation than we need” to put an end to the country’s longstanding electricity woes. Spea
BPL announces plan to resume disconnections
BAHAMAS Power and Light announced yesterday that it will immediately resume disconnection of electricity services of residential customers who have $500 or more in arrears for more than 90 days as of April 1. “Any customers with a balance more than
Minister warning over shanty towns
ANY non-governmental organisation found employing or helping undocumented migrants build illegal structures on government land will be dealt with according to the law, according to Works Minister Desmond Bannister. His comments came after he told re
Davis criticises government cut to scholarships
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis knocked the Minnis administration yesterday for cutting scholarship grants and subventions to University of The Bahamas, calling the policy an assault on education. In a recent interview with Our
35 doctors get warm welcome into their new lives
ELIZABETH Turner, daughter of attorney Edward Turner and former leader of the opposition Loretta Butler-Turner, has successfully completed her course of study in medicine. She graduated this past weekend from the University of the West Indies School
Police chief aiming to improve discipline
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle admitted the force has seen the level of discipline reduce over the years, something he wants to restore to higher levels. “The discipline over the years we’ve seen a reduction simply because I think we should have
Man found dead with gunshot wounds
A MAN was found dead yesterday morning with a gunshot wound to the head. This comes after three people were killed last week. ASP Audley Peters told The Tribune the victim is in his late 30s, and is known to the police. However his identity was not
UPDATED: Three killed in traffic accident in Grand Bahama
Three people were killed in a traffic accident in Grand Bahama on Monday night.
Fusion Superplex: 'We'll be back despite north of $6m loss'
The Fusion Superplex yesterday revealed it has “lost north of $6m” in revenues due to its COVID-19 enforced closure, but pledged: “We’ll definitely be back.” Carlos Foulkes, the cinema and entertainment complex’s chief executive, told Tribune Busine
Banker: Put homes above life's luxuries
Bahamians must stop prioritising luxury goods, a top banker urged yesterday, with home ownership set to take a “tremendous blow” in the next year due to COVID-19. Gowon Bowe, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) chief financial officer, told a webinar organised
Realtor 'bombed' by buyer interest surge
A prominent Bahamian realtor yesterday said he is “getting bombed” by a surge in buyer interest and visits that has taken him by surprise since the borders opened.Peter Dupuch, founder and president of ERA Dupuch Real Estate, told Tribune Business th
Dorian forces insurer into first-ever reserve release
A Bahamian insurer yesterday revealed it made the first-ever “catastrophe reserves” release in its 25-year history due to Hurricane Dorian’s $200m-plus claims.Timothy Ingraham, Summit Insurance’s president, told Tribune Business that the property and
Bahamas needs tax structure to match tourism
The Bahamas needs a tax structure that will attract the equivalent of 7m tourists to its financial services industry, a local banker argued yesterday. Gowon Bowe, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) chief financial officer, told a webinar organised by the Chart
PM confirms two new cases of COVID-19
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis confirmed on Wednesday that there are two new cases of COVID-19 – both in Grand Bahama. Contact tracing is underway.
Following in her father’s footsteps
FORMER Tall Pines MP Leslie Miller is not the only member of his family chasing a Progressive Liberal Party nomination for the 2022 general election –– his daughter Leslia Brice is vying to be the party’s representative for the Sea Breeze constituency as well.
NIB striving to resolve all payment problems
AMID concerns over lengthy delays in receiving unemployment payments, National Insurance Board Minister Brensil Rolle said officials are working to resolve all issues to ensure workers receive their contributions. He insisted that “anyone who is entitled” to NIB benefits will receive them.
‘WE DON’T WANT CONFRONTATION’: Police chief warns public not to break holiday beach ban
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle expects “people to stay home” after the Prime Minister’s order to close three islands’ beaches for the Independence Day weekend.
University staff’s fears over Grand Bahama campus future
FACULTY and staff at University of The Bahamas-North are concerned over unconfirmed speculation of a proposal to discontinue operations in Grand Bahama.
Defendant thanks jury after he's found not guilty of murder
CARLOS Brown is now a free man after a Supreme Court jury yesterday found him not guilty of murdering Renaldo Bullard in 2018. Mr Brown was accused of shooting and killing the man, before burying his body in a shallow grave on a piece of property hi
Emergency powers are still in effect - Bethel
ATTORNEY General Carl Bethel said the emergency powers and the state of emergency declaration are still in full effect and accused anyone saying the contrary of exposing Bahamians to harm. “I wish to advise the Bahamian people that there is absolute
Nassau St roadworks
NASSAU Street will be closed to undergo road works starting today. The scheduled milling and paving will take place from 6pm to 2am today and tomorrow and will resume on Saturday and Sunday from 7am to 7.30pm. The work will take place on the roadway
Jamaican man charged with possession of drugs
A JAMAICAN man was charged in Freeport last week with possession of dangerous drugs. George Anthony Ellis, 30, of St Andrew’s, Jamaica, pleaded guilty in Magistrate’s Court to the drug possession charge and was ordered to pay a fine of $400. After p
Replace your advisers
I do not know the owners of the fabled Compass Point but it seems to me that they are being badly advised. Whoever those advisers are they should be replaced as soon as possible. It is most insulting and a non compliance with protocol.
Teachers are crucial
It should be highly appreciated that teachers play a crucial role in societies.
We should back PM over decision to close beaches
Yes, we have brought our community spread under control, thanks to the herculean efforts of this government.
‘Hooping by the Park’ cancelled due to COVID-19
COVID-19 has had a drastic effect on sporting events globally. Here at home, a number of organisations are still trying to come to grips with the fact that they may not be able to hold any activities in quite a while due to the health risk involved.
Basketball players get ready for the Big Shots Tournament
For the first time since they were members of the Temple Christian Suns about two years ago, coach Jamal Smith got a chance once again to work with point guard Deyton Albury and forward Garrett Edgecombe.
Athletes ‘will be allowed to return’ to Purdue University
THERE has been much concern about the effect of student athletes travelling to the United States to continue their education in the COVID-19 pandemic.
'Abandoning the National Plan will be our undoing'
The government was yesterday urged to “dust off” the National Development Plan (NDP) instead of relying solely on the Economic Recovery Committee (ERC) for post-COVID-19 salvation. Gowon Bowe, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) chief financial officer, said:
Laying out the road map for economic resilience
The newspaper headlines reporting on a presentation given by the deputy prime minister (DPM) were very similar. One read: Government wants Economic Recovery Committee to assist in finding solutions to supplement economic growth , while the other simp
Tuesday, July 7
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 7th July: Nassau
STARTS: 07/07/2020 11:08 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/08/2020 12:36 AM EDT
PETER YOUNG: It’ll take a brave man to predict accurately what is coming next
Forecasting is a tricky business at the best of times.
FACE TO FACE: My Bahamian queen in the year of Independence
This special Independence edition is dedicated to the very first person I ever saw face to face in this entire world – my mother. As I reflect on my country, its achievements, and where it needs to go in the future, I continue to honour those who have paved the way. My mother Agatha Watson is among them.
EDWARD FIELDS: The time for Independence 2.0 is now
In my journey toward peace of mind, I have one last cause left of an altruistic nature before I dive headfirst into focusing on living life for my personal well-being.
COVID scare closes BPL
BAHAMAS Power and Light temporarily closed its Peter I Bethel Building to customers yesterday for cleaning after an unsubstantiated COVID-19 scare. According to a source, a customer was in a casual conversation with another person at the BPL buildin
'Church of England should join reparation talks'
A representative from the CARICOM Reparations Commission said it is time for the Church of England to join the discussion on reparations. The group is also calling for a “reparations summit” as phase two of the exit of colonialism for Caribbean coun
'Brother had row before his death'
THE sister of a man whose body was found in a graveyard last week said he had an argument with a neighbour recently, which may have led to his death. Charlotte Williams, 38, said her her sibling Fred Williams, 45, had a disagreement with a person con
NO DOCUMENTS? DON’T HIRE THEM: Bannister challenges employers over using no-work visa ‘migrants’
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister said yesterday Bahamians should reflect on hiring undocumented immigrants this independence season as he discussed the threat of a shanty town on Abaco.
RBDF launches investigation into damaged boat
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force has launched an investigation after one of its vessels was damaged on its way to Marsh Harbour, Abaco on Friday morning. This comes after a local tabloid reported that HMBS Nassau allegedly hit “a sandbank in low tide
Linking up with Harry and Meghan to try and inspire action for change
Last week, I was one of four young people in conversation with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex who serve as the President and Vice President of the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust (QCT). We were invited to speak with the Sussexes about equal rights and ju
'New boater obstacle' in Customs check-out
New Customs “check-out” processes have created “another obstacle to encourage boaters not to visit”, the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) chief blasted yesterday. Peter Maury told Tribune Business he had already received complaints from visiting
Treasurer blasts govt on financial resource failure
The Public Treasury’s top official blasted the government for failing to provide sufficient resources to improve financial management and cash flow. Eugenia Cartwright, the treasurer, in a memorandum that was revealed with yesterday’s publication of
Health insurer's Bahamas exit to be 'orderly'
Regulators yesterday said they expect a “very orderly wind-down” of a Bahamas-based health insurer as it readies to exit the market by December 2021. Michele Fields, the Insurance Commission’s superintendent, confirmed to Tribune Business that Gener
Insurers warned: Do not keep 'eggs in one basket'
A top insurer says Bahamian underwriters will find it increasingly difficult to survive “long-term” unless they diversify into other territories.Patrick Ward, Bahamas First’s president and chief executive, told Tribune Business in a recent interview
Abaco struggles to find new workers
Abaco's labour shortages are causing post-Dorian reconstruction prices to "skyrocket" by at least 25 percent, the island's Chamber of Commerce chief warned yesterday.
Cannabis reform - ‘get on with it’
MEMBERS of the Rastafarian community say they want the government to stop “dragging their feet” on marijuana law reform, noting the drug, if legalised, could help aid the country’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.
Speaker backs down in blocking Glenys
HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie had another tense clash with opposition members in the House of Assembly yesterday after he backpedalled on his order not to allow Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin into Parliament.
‘Kino’ Burrows retires from national basketball team play
Jaraun “Kino” Burrows has suited up in the black, aquamarine and gold on the court as a member of The Bahamas’ men’s national basketball team for the last time.
Witness heard shots and says he saw the accused with a gun
A JURY yesterday listened to the closing arguments from Crown and defence counsel on whether an accused man shot and killed another man who was found in a shallow grave on an undeveloped plot of land in 2018. The panel is expected to decide the fate
GBPA welcomes govt help for small business
THE Grand Bahama Port Authority’s small business recovery grant programme will receive matching grant funding of $100,000 from the government’s Small Business Development Centre to assist small businesses. GBPA President Ian Rolle “welcomed” the par
Jamaican 'hitman' is captured in Grand Bahama hotel
A REPUTED Jamaican “hit man” was captured and arrested at a hotel in Lucaya, Grand Bahama on Wednesday. The man, according to Bahamian authorities, is a notorious fugitive with ties to a known gang in Jamaica known as No Dollars No Cents and is a kn
Pre-register now for Diamond League Basketball Camp
“GONE, but not forgotten” are the words posted at the top of the banner to promote the Diamond League Basketball Camp for the late versatile athlete Jonique ‘Mini’ Webb and basketball coach Sherman Smith.
Weir had a very ‘productive’ tenure as BLTA president
AS she demitted office, having served as president of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association for the past two years plus, Darnette Weir revealed that she had a very “productive” tenure.
Two men face murder charges
TWO 35-year-old men were charged in the Magistrate’s Court with murdering another man last week. Marcello McKenzie and Jamaal Armbrister appeared before Magistrate Derence Rolle-Davis yesterday charged with the death of Godfrey Sawyer on June 28. Ac
QC sprinter Paige Stuart signs up with UB Mingoes
THE University of the Bahamas Mingoes have signed Queen’s College sprinter Paige Stuart for the upcoming fall semester.
AID sales up 20% - but drop off imminent
A major Bahamian retailer says its 20 percent "better than normal" sales performance has given it sufficient optimism to move ahead with an $8.2m investment.
Tour providers fear COVID exposure
Family Island tour providers yesterday said they fear being exposed to COVID-19 as business levels range from non-existent to 50 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Glenrick Rolle, owner/operator of Glenrick’s Water Taxi Services on Bimini, told Tribune
Digital B$ rolled-out nationally by Q3 end
The Central Bank’s digital currency will be made available nationwide by the 2020 third quarter’s close, the deputy prime minister said yesterday. Unveiling reforms to the financial services regulatory regime in the House of Assembly, K Peter Turnqu
Legal reforms tighten 'failing' bank oversight
The Central Bank is gaining powers to appoint “a statutory administrator” over failing or “unsafe” banks, Parliament was told yesterday.K Peter Turnquest, pictured, deputy prime minister, unveiling a three-strong package of Bills to strengthen the fi
Monday, July 6
PM announces closure of beaches for holiday weekend
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced Monday that beaches and parks in New Providence, Paradise Island and Grand Bahama will be closed throughout the Independence Day holiday weekend, beginning 10pm on Thursday and ending 5am on Monday.
Smith commits until 2022
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas President Dr Rodney Smith has stressed his commitment to the institution until the end of his contract in 2022. “I will not abandon UB’s faculty, students and staff, as some have suggested,” Dr Smith said in a statement. “
INSIGHT: Uncovering the early childhood traumas that lead to violence
MANY of the adolescents who are brought before the courts for minor infractions suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to a pilot study conducted by leading psychiatrist David F Allen and local colleagues.
EDITORIAL: The traumas that create killers
WHEN you think of a murderer in this country, what do you think of?
INSIGHT: Marchar Jean was her school’s star pupil - today she’s trapped by a nonsensical system which is a stain on our nation
Sadly, unnecessarily and illegally, the life of an innocent young Bahamian in waiting is in limbo!
INSIGHT: Can we all just get on the same page please?
LAST week’s confusion over the landing of 135 workers from Mexico brought in to help restore the hurricane-ravaged Bakers Bay led to quite a stir. Perhaps the biggest concern should have been the rising threat COVID-19 is becoming in Mexico.
Woman still missing after boat runs aground
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force is still searching for a missing woman from an American vessel that ran aground near South Bimini on Thursday, which left one man dead and two others injured. According to reports, the boat left Luna Beach en route to
Change in teaching at university
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas professors anticipate there will be a blended learning environment for students for the upcoming fall semester, one that could include limited face-to-face instruction and a continuation of virtual learning classes.During a
Same-day virus tests set to be introduced
WITH Doctors Hospital announcing plans to introduce same day PCR COVID-19 testing, a local health official does not expect this to lead to a significant rise in confirmed virus cases because there is “no community transmission” occurring at the momen
Family Islands return
TOURISM attractions, excursions and tours will be permitted to resume operations on all Family Islands effective today, the Office of the Prime Minister reminded in a press release. Facial masks and physical distancing protocols are mandatory, OPM st
I am sure we will rise again, says Turnquest
AMID current economic uncertainty, Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest has expressed hope that Grand Bahama will move forward again in a positive direction. His comments came at a flag-raising ceremony in Grand Bahama as part of the country’s 47th
Commission to begin work again shortly
ALTHOUGH the work of the Bahamas National Commission on Marijuana was placed on hold for more than three months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, group co-chairs Bishop Simeon Hall and Quinn McCartney yesterday said the commission plans to reconvene in s
Coronavirus pandemic – the ActivTrades perspective
The coronavirus pandemic is a one in a generation event. The disruption it brought to the lives of countless individuals and businesses is unparalleled during times of peace; For the first time in several generations, life came to an almost standstill.
Doctors Hospital cuts 43 staff over 'blunt fiscal reality'
Doctors Hospital has revealed the termination of 43 workers after aggressive cost-cutting measures proved insufficient to offset “diminished patient activity”.The BISX-listed healthcare provider, in a statement issued at the weekend, warned that it w
Govt revenues off 50% in last quarter
The government’s revenues for the 2019-2020 fiscal year’s final quarter dropped by “50 percent or so” compared to normal, the deputy prime minister said yesterday.K Peter Turnquest, responding to a series of messaged Tribune Business questions, said
Fidelity’s warning on visits to the U.S.
Bahamian workers were yesterday warned they could find themselves taking unpaid leave if they fail to make "wise" vacation decisions amid the COVID-19 threat.
Mexican hirings ‘a slap in the face’
IMMIGRATION Minister Elsworth Johnson has defended the government’s decision to grant over 100 work permits to Mexican construction workers who entered the country last week to work at the Baker’s Bay Golf & Ocean Club resort in Abaco.
Ayton looks to NBA restart as opportunity to make history
A rejuvenated Deandre Ayton looks ahead to the NBA restart at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida as an opportunity to make history.
SMOKESCREEN: Companies accused of exploiting COVID to target specific staff
LABOUR Director John Pinder said while he believes most companies have had to lay off workers due to decreased business from the COVID-19 pandemic, he thinks there are some who have been using the pandemic as an excuse to get rid of certain employees.
America's leader is taking us to the edge
“Let’s protect each other and our communities. When you visit any BTC store to pay your bill in full, you will receive a free 3-layer protective mask.”
We must turn our sights to other tourism markets in the world
We’re now a day away from July 1. Let’s try to carefully think about what’s going on.
We need trees on the beach – they provide us with shade
A minister was on the news talking about removing trees from beaches.
Gardiner obliterates Brown’s national record in the 300m
Add the Bahamas men’s national 300 metre record to the list of accomplishments for Steven Gardiner.
Miller-Uibo has double dose of victory
IN her first meet since settling for the silver in the women’s 400 metres at the IAAF World Championships last October, Shaunae Miller-Uibo was back on the track with a double dose of world-leading performances in the 200 and 400 metres.
BLTA: Newton’s entire slate of officers elected unopposed
AFTER a landslide victory for the president’s post, Perry Newton’s entire slate of officers went in unopposed during the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s election of officers at the annual general meeting.
The importance of preparing for unknown risks
The coronavirus crisis demonstrated that countries with preparations in place to deal with a pandemic, such as South Korea, Singapore and Taiwan - despite having been among the first to suffer the impact of the virus - experienced lower numbers of cases and fatalities than others without any plan for such events. For these, the cost of unreadiness has been staggering, both in human and economic terms.
More Bahamian ownership will deliver optimum returns
Ihave covered a lot in the past three years, ranging from development solutions for each inhabited Family Island to decentralisation of the Bahamian economy, advancing the National Development Plan (NDP) and even the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the
Exuma set for critical infrastructure upgrade
Exuma’s crumbling roads are on track for a much-needed upgrade after aging beyond their 15-year useful life span.David Cox, the Ministry of Works’ senior engineer for the Family Islands, said the condition of the island’s roads ranged from fair to po
Jitneys: Return to the road already a 'battle'
Jitney drivers say their return to the roads has already become a “battle” with their livelihoods “hanging on a thread” due to uncertainty over proposed fare increases. Harrison Moxey, the United Public Transportation Company’s (UPTC) president, told
Family Island tourism firms to reopen today
The Prime Minister’s Office has given permission for Family Island-based tourism attractions, excursions and tours to resume operations from today.It added that wearing face masks and the implementation of physical distancing protocols will be mandat
Potter's Cay 'moves into 21st century' on card payment tie-up
Potter’s Cay Dock vendors are “moving into the 21st century” by partnering with Fidelity Bank (Bahamas) as part of efforts to “go cashless”.Wendi Constantine, president of the Bahamas Dock and Allied Venues Vendors Association (BDAVVA), told Tribune
Fighting financial crime in silos will cause failure
The risk and compliance space has been inundated with changing landscapes during the first six months of this new decade. Here in The Bahamas, many risk and compliance professionals will have thought that the 2018-2019 regulatory overhaul was a daunt
Atlantis 'dampener' for slow taxi revival
The taxi union’s president says Atlantis’ delayed re-opening has put a further “dampener” on what was expected to be a slow tourism rebound post-COVID-19.Wesley Ferguson, the Bahamas Taxi Cab Union’s (BTCU) president, told Tribune Business: “The tour
Sunday, July 5
What makes you proud to be Bahamian?
As the 47th anniversary of Independence approaches, what makes you proud to be Bahamian?
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 5th July: Freeport
STARTS: 07/05/2020 10:20 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/05/2020 11:45 PM EDT
Friday, July 3
Man dead, woman missing at sea and two injured after boating accident
A man is dead and a woman is missing at sea after a boating accident off Bimini on Thursday night. Shortly before midnight, officers at the Alice Town Police Station received a distress call from a boater in the area of Turtle Rock – two nautical miles off Bimini.
Six women arrested after video of fight on Grand Bahama
SIX women were arrested in Grand Bahama on Thursday after videos of them circulated on social media showing them displaying aggressive conduct near a business on the island.
Opposition concerns prevent Senate debate on emergency orders
THE Senate failed to debate a resolution for the extension of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis' latest emergency orders after concerns were raised by the opposition on whether the parliamentary session was properly constituted to meet.
Man jailed after pleading guilty to causing damage
THE Magistrate’s court sent a 20-year-old man to jail for 18 months on Friday after he pleaded guilty to causing damage to a man’s home.
Three accused of assault
TWO teenagers and a man were remanded to prison on Friday to await trial after they were accused of assaulting three men last week with a deadly weapon.
FOAM provides families with rental assistance
A LOCAL non-profit organisation is lending a helping hand to families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by providing rental assistance to those in need.
Search for men after separate armed robberies
NEW Providence police are searching for several men after two separate armed robberies in the capital on Thursday.
Two charged with cultivating marijuana
A man and woman were charged in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday with cultivating marijuana.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Good riddance to that planet-killing piece of throwaway plastic
With eyes on COVID-19, the economic fall-out and an attempt to re-open the borders, it would have been easy to overlook a major milestone this week – crunch time. July 1, 2020, time to kiss those single-use plastics goodbye.
$60m paid out to 34,000 unemployed
THE National Insurance Board has now paid over 34,000 unemployment benefit claimants more than $60 million in benefits.This number continues to grow daily, NIB said in a statement. “Most recipients have received eight to ten weeks of benefit, as NIB
Abaco alarm over new shanty construction
ABACO residents are again sounding the alarm over unsanctioned construction in shanty town communities on the island, saying it is unfair some people are being allowed certain liberties, while others are being treated like “fourth class citizens” in
Mackey seeks to ease fears over tourists not wearing masks
SOME residents of Harbour Island are complaining that tourists are not following COVID-19 protocols, but MP for the area Ricky Mackey told The Tribune that the matter is under control and protocols will be enforced. A resident of Harbour Island took
Concern at clean-up halt at Equinor oil spill site
ACTIVISTS say no clean up is being done at the Equinor oil spill site where an estimated 55,000 barrels of oil were released at its South Riding Point facility in East Grand Bahama during Hurricane Dorian. Environmental representatives of Save the
Programme to address domestic violence with men and boys
THE Spouses of Caribbean Leaders Action Network (SCLAN) will initiate a programme at the end of this month to address domestic violence with men and boys, according to Patricia Minnis. Outside of Cabinet on Tuesday, Social Services Minister Frankie
A COMIC'S VIEW: It’s Minnis v Minnis in the lockdown battle
A dialogue in lockdown between the PM, the Minister of Health (the MOH) and the Competent Authority
Court to supervise Cavalier's wind-up
Cavalier Construction’s liquidation was yesterday placed under Supreme Court supervision after the 64 year-old contractor’s insolvency was confirmed. Once one of The Bahamas’ largest and best-known contractors, its winding-up under judicial oversigh
Bungled Netflix trade to cost Ansbacher $317k
Ansbacher (Bahamas) has been ordered to pay $317,000 in lost profits to a UK investor over a bungled Netflix share trade he claims cost him his townhouse.Justice Indra Charles, in a June 22, 2020, verdict, found that the financial services provider g
Govt eyes SPV for agriculture funding
The government is eyeing the creation of a special purpose vehicle (SPV) that will raise and channel financing towards agriculture, a Cabinet minister said yesterday. Michael Pintard, minister for agriculture and marine resources, told Tribune Busin
Bahamas First provides $65m boost to BISX
Bahamas First yesterday delivered a $65m boost to the Bahamas International Securities Exchange (BISX) by becoming the first general insurer to list on it.Patrick Ward, pictured, Bahamas First’s president and managing director, told Tribune Business
Two charged with attempted murder of two-year-old girl
TWO men were charged on Friday with the attempted murder of a two-year-old girl who was left hospitalised in critical condition after being shot in Eleuthera last weekend.
'Why aren't we being put first?'
The Government’s decision to permit a major Abaco resort to bring in more than 100 Mexican construction workers was yesterday branded as “beyond egregious”.
Time we march and be outraged: PM’s wife calls for public response to help cut shootings
PATRICIA Minnis said the community should be “outraged” and march in the wake of recent shootings that have wounded young children. Mrs Minnis, wife of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, was asked to respond to last week’s shooting of a two-year-old girl and the death of a ten-year-old girl from gunfire.
PHA says funding played part in interns leaving
THE Public Hospitals Authority suggested that junior doctors whose internship programmes have ended have not been hired because of the entity’s reduced budget.
Legal fight to defend party marine
ATTORNEY Wayne Munroe is fighting an effort by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force to host a disciplinary hearing involving a marine accused of vulgar gyrating at a party in contravention of Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ COVID-19 orders and RBDF rules.
COLUMN: Maybe it's time for an 'All Sports Matter' movement Bahamas
WHY can’t we have an “All Sports Matter” movement here in the Bahamas? Come to think about it, with everybody frustrated with all of the social ills, coupled with the lockdowns and curfews as a result of the coronavirus, one of the easiest ways to h
THE PRESS BOX: 'Shaking off the rust from corona'
FINALLY, things are getting back to some form of normalcy, but that’s no excuse to go buck wild, throwing caution to the wind. Continue to practice and adhere to all social distancing protocols, remember our borders are open once again. Hopefully,
Jones, Smith on Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team
POWER five NCAA Division I conferences continue to honour student-athletes for their work in the classroom and several Bahamians were among those recognised this week. The Big 12 announced their 2019-20 Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team which featured
Dollar collapse
The United States (US) national debt has reached 26 trillion and is expected to reach 30 trillion in 2021.
Abaco restaurant shut down over 8pm closure
AN Abaco restaurant was shut down and the owner could face prosecution after allegedly failing to close at 8pm as mandated by the COVID-19 emergency orders. According to police, shortly after 11pm on Wednesday police and defence force officers went
'Killing time' smoking drug lands teen in court
A TEENAGER charged with marijuana possession yesterday told a judge he was smoking the drug “to kill time”.Tarron Hepburn, 19, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after officers seized two grams of Indian hemp from him on June 20.He pleaded gu
Nesbitt announced as new BAIC general manager
THE government announced yesterday that a new general manager of the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation has been appointed effective July 1. Rocky Nesbitt has replaced former general manager Benjamin Rahming who retired in last August.
Man jailed after gun and ammunition found in car
A man was sentenced to more than two years in prison yesterday after he pleaded guilty to illegal firearm and ammunition possession. Latario Rolle, 25, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged with possession of a prohibited weapon and amm
Teenager accused of raping woman
A TEENAGER was remanded to prison yesterday over allegations he raped a woman last week. Indico Bethel, 18, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged with one count of rape after he was accused of having sexual intercourse with a 24-year-ol
Man arrested over drugs and cash discovery
GRAND Bahama police arrested a man in connection with the seizure of a quantity of dangerous drugs and the discovery of thousands of dollars in cash at a residence in Eight Mile Rock on Wednesday. According to reports, shortly after 7pm a team of of
Sprinter Alexis Gray adjusting to pro career
NOW that she has graduated from Texas Southern University, sprinter Alexis Gray is making her adjustment to her professional career in athletics (track and field).After coming out in the fall 2019 with a degree in biology with a concentration in chem
Grand Bahama Football Association receives supplies to restart league in aftermath of Dorian
Whether you call it soccer or football, the game has gained a reputation as one of the world’s most popular team sports. With a history that dates back some three thousand years, football is played by 250 million players in over 200 countries - including The Bahamas. On Grand Bahama Island, and throughout the country, the Bahamas Football Association has led the charge in making the game widely accessible to hundreds of young athletes.
EDITORIAL: Outrage is just the start
IT is not often that we hear the voice of the Prime Minister’s wife in the wake of the violence that too routinely breaks out on our streets.
Robinson left off 60-man player pool
KRISTIAN Robinson was noticeably left off the Arizona Diamondbacks’ 60-man player pool for the upcoming Major League Baseball season, but the club’s No.1 overall prospect will still have an opportunity to train under team supervision.
Rodgers to run for president of BBA
One year after being elected as the new president of the Bahamas Baseball Association, Sam Rodgers and his executive team got all of the fragmented organisations to come back under one umbrella in 2017.Now, after serving his first four-year term in o
Bethel must offer his resignation
We profess to follow the so-called Westminster form of constitutional democracy here at home in our wonderful nation. Under that system there are certain constitutional conventions, while not having the force of an actual law or legislation, are followed and observed in the political arena.
Strengthen Parliaments
The International Day of Parliaments was recognised on June 30.
Travel consultancy turns to Bahamian tours focus
A local travel consultancy yesterday said it was focusing on its “Bahamian Bucketlist” package of Family Island experiences for the remainder of 2020. True Love Travel, a boutique travel consultancy in the Bahamas, explained that it has launched its
Balancing the risks in COVID-19 reopening
With the opening of our international borders to visitors, many are bracing with bated breath for what might be a COVID-19 resurgence in The Bahamas. We have seen many countries re-open irresponsibly or prematurely, resulting in a disastrous onslaugh
Port Authority teams for improved IT skills
The Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) has teamed with a local call centre to develop a workforce with skills required by the sector and wider technology industry.The partnership with itelbpo Smart Solutions is continuing to invest in human capital d
Tourism launches its mobile planning app
The Ministry of Tourism and Aviation has launched a mobile app, pictured, to help visitors with planning a visit to The Bahamas.In a statement, it said the app’s key features include downloadable island guides; flight charter request processing; and
BAMSI set to hold virtual graduation
The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) will today hold a virtual graduation ceremony for its 2020 class. Dr Raveenia Roberts-Hanna, BAMSI’s executive director and college head, said: “While the day will not be the same as our c
Thursday, July 2
UPDATED: Mexican workers 'all had negative COVID-19 tests'
BAHAMIAN medical experts yesterday insisted measures are in place to limit the risk of someone with COVID-19 entering The Bahamas.
UPDATED: Mexican workers 'all had negative COVID-19 tests'
THURSDAY EVENING UPDATE: BAHAMASAIR Chairman Tommy Turnquest said all Mexicans who arrived in the country Thursday to do construction work at the Baker’s Bay resort in Abaco had negative COVID-19 tests from an accredited lab. Their tests, he said, were taken within the required ten day period. He spoke to The Tribune after top health officials expressed uncertainty about the test status of the workers during a Ministry of Health press conference.
EDITORIAL: Job cuts, businesses gone and a long road to recovery
THE reopening of our borders might be taken by some to show we’re getting back to normal – but as the comments from Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar show, we’re a long way from that.
STATESIDE: Both sides should be mindful of the lesson from Delaware - just ask Mike Castle
Mike Castle will celebrate his 81st birthday today. Who is he and why does his example offer a significant message for members of the political party that opposed him for almost 50 years?
FRONT PORCH: Don’t dare relax - behave like fools and we’ll pay a deadly price
In one of his most ominous warnings since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus pleaded with world leaders and the international community:
Clean-up of Equinor oil spill delayed by COVID-19 pandemic
THE oil spill clean-up at the Equinor South Riding Point facility in East Grand Bahama seems to have slowed down over the past several months, with some areas of the forest still covered with oil. It is believed the COVID-19 pandemic which forced th
Senior policeman warns fraud is on the increase
A POLICE official revealed yesterday that fraud crimes at various local banks have increased from January 1 as he warned the public against allowing individuals to use their accounts. Chief Superintendent Matthew Edgecombe of the Financial Crime Inv
Taxi drivers glad to be back on the road
ONE local bus driver wants the government to rethink the policy of a maximum 50 percent occupancy on jitneys, questioning how this will work for the industry in the long term. He spoke as public transport resumed for the first time yesterday since t
'We need to rethink 50% capacity limit'
AFTER months of being out of business due to the COVID-19 restrictions, taxicab drivers say they are happy to resume operations now that international travel has resumed in the country.Speaking to reporters outside Lynden Pindling International Airpo
Plans underway for 'virtual' Independence celebrations
FOR the first time in the nation’s history, Bahamians will not gather en masse to celebrate the country’s independence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, the national independence celebrations committee is preparing a four-hour, made for televis
A.G. probe into land ownership claims
A Bahamian developer yesterday warned new dubious land practices are threatening to "wreak havoc" for the construction and real estate industries.
'Anyone's guess' on full tourism rebound
A Cabinet minister has predicted that the Bahamian economy and its vital tourism industry will feel COVID-19’s negative impact for at least a further two years.Dionisio D’Aguilar, minister of tourism and aviation, told Tribune Business it was “anyone
Abaconians promised action on unregulated shanty development
A Cabinet minister yesterday pledged that the government will take all action necessary “within the law” to halt further unregulated development on Abaco. Desmond Bannister, minister of works, told Tribune Business that the Minnis administration’s C
Bahamians warned: 'No-no' to let others use your account
Bahamians were yesterday warned they could “land in jail” for money laundering and/or fraud if they let others use their bank accounts for illicit transactions.Superintendent Matthew Edgecombe, head of the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s anti-corruption
‘Unreliable’ BPL hits productivity in financial services
Financial services providers have complained that Bahamas Power & Light’s (BPL) unreliability impacted staff productivity during the COVID-19 crisis.
07022020 EDITION
Thursday, 2nd July, 2020.
WELCOME BACK: First foreign flights arrive but numbers of passengers light
TOURISTS and returning residents descended on Lynden Pindling International Airport as commercial international travel resumed yesterday.
Brave warns - we’re taking risks
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis slammed the Minnis administration’s COVID-19 plans yesterday, saying the government is not doing enough to protect residents as the borders reopen.
Judges throw out murder conviction
THE Court of Appeal recently quashed the murder sentence of a man who was accused of shooting and killing another man in 2015, after the accused appealed his conviction on the grounds that during the trial the judge failed to give him a good character direction to which he was “entitled”.
Anguish of Baha Mar’s axed staff
AFTER a wave of layoffs at Baha Mar this week, one former employee said losing her job left her with “anguish in my heart”.
Teenager to pay compensation to pair after throwing rocks
A TEENAGER was ordered to compensate a man and woman after he admitted to damaging their property when he threw rocks at them during an altercation on Baillou Hill Road last week. Shervin Oliver, 19, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney charge
Jamaican woman admits scissors assault
A JAMAICAN woman was placed on 12 months’ probation yesterday after she admitted assaulting a man with a dangerous instrument earlier this week. Shanice Thomas, 27, appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after she was accused of assaulting Patri
School hours should stay the same
As a person who works in the education system I must voice my input about how school should be run when it reopens. It is not feasible for there to be six feet of distance between students in the class room. Desks should be reasonably spaced but if students are wearing masks and using hand sanitisers this should not be an issue. The main issue should be the number of students in each class. There should be no more than 25 students in each class. This number allows for adequate spacing in each room.
Community service order for marijuana possession
A man was ordered to complete community service after he pleaded guilty to marijuana possession in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Gerreth Smith, 26, appeared before Magistrate Sandradee Gardiner after officers seized 12 grams of Indian Hemp from
New baseball stadium ‘will be very live with events’
The proposed plan for the development of the new Andre Rodgers National Baseball Complex will feature a stadium that includes opportunities for local baseball to take advantage of the stadium’s amenities.
Man, 26, accused of attempted murder
A 26-year-old man was charged with attempted murder yesterday. Derinardo Mott appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after he was accused of trying to kill Antoine Williamson on June 17. According to initial police reports, shortly before 6pm t
Govt fails to inject any real thought
From the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has used WHO “guidelines” to justify the decisions they have made.
Why the people of Green Turtle Cay feel neglected
Today makes Day 304 without power at my residence on Green Turtle Cay. My residence has been repaired and is ready for reconnection to the BPL power grid. We were promised, again last week, that Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) would be coming to do hook-ups this week.
Chisholm, Fox named to pool of up to 60 players
MAJOR League Baseball is set to make its return and several Bahamian prospects have joined their team’s player pool in training camp for the shortened 2020 season.
Franco commits to join Florida Gulf Coast Eagles
FRANCO Miller Jr ended his time in the transfer portal and committed to join the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles to continue his collegiate basketball career.
Govt allocates $48m to COVID jobless benefits
A Ministry of Finance official yesterday confirmed the government has allocated $48m towards various COVID-19 jobless benefit initiatives in the 2020-2021 budget. Marlon Johnson, acting financial secretary, said a portion of this sum will finance a
Return road 'pretty slow' for bus drivers
Jitney drivers yesterday said their return to the road was “pretty slow” as they await the government’s decision on whether to approve a proposed fare increase.Rudolph Taylor, the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union’s (BUDU) president, told Tribune Bus
Govt pins hopes on recovery committee
The government is pinning its hopes on the Economic Recovery Committee’s (ERC) work to beat Moody’s projection that GDP will return to pre-COVID levels only after 2024. K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister, said: “Last week, we acknowledged the
Biodiesel firm is 'coiled spring ready to explode'
A Bahamian biofuel producer yesterday described itself as “a coiled spring ready to explode” with ramped-up sales after four painstaking years of perfecting its product. Scott Metcalf, Bahamas Sustainable Fuels’ general manager, told Tribune Busines
Tourism industry off to a slow reopening
The Bahamian tourism industry’s post-COVID re-opening made a slow start yesterday with New Providence hotels reporting minimal guest arrivals.Muna Issa, Breezes Bahamas managing director, told Tribune Business via e-mail: “We are open and ready for b
Gyms, fitness centres hail 'smooth' reopening
Gyms and fitness centres yesterday hailed a “smooth” reopening after being closed for more than three months as a result of the COVID-19 emergency measures. Sofia Whitehead, owner of Club One Fitness, told Tribune Business: “We had a really great mo
NIB wage ceiling rise takes effect
The National Insurance Board (NIB) yesterday said only higher-paid workers will be impacted by the latest wage ceiling increase.The social security system, in a statement issued, said only workers earning more than $670 per week or $2,903 per month w
Wednesday, July 1
EDITORIAL: Country opens, but resorts stay closed
TODAY is the day. The first commercial flights from the US and Canada will be touching down today, ending the border closure put in place to protect us from COVID-19.
ALICIA WALLACE: We know opening the borders just doesn’t add up: we’re chasing the dollars and it’s a big risk
Is this freedom? Beaches and parks, gyms and spas, places of worship, and businesses are now open. The requirements are different from what we expected.
Smith to step down from University of The Bahamas in 2022
THE UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas (UB) will seek to find “the most qualified candidate” to replace president Dr Rodney Smith, Education Minister Jeff Lloyd said yesterday after it was revealed the president will not renew his contract at the institution,
Some residents are happy to travel - others not so sure
WHILE some Bahamians are ready to take a trip abroad after several months of the country’s borders being closed, others are hesitant to travel overseas due to rising COVID-19 cases in some parts of the world. Paulette Culmer says she plans to travel
EU excludes Bahamas from list of countries allowed to visit
THE Bahamas has been left off the list of countries whose residents are allowed to travel to the European Union when the bloc opens its borders to international travel today. Due to a spike in COVID-19 cases in the United States, America has also be
No lapse in state of emergency, says Minnis
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis tabled Governor General CA Smith’s new proclamation of emergency orders in the House of Assembly yesterday and stressed there has been no discontinuity in the enforcement of his COVID-19 emergency regulations. “Many i
Doctors' union fears for juniors and interns
THE Bahamas Doctors Union yesterday raised alarm about the employment status of interns and junior doctors, claiming that over 30 interns and other junior physicians have received letters saying “that their services will no longer be required” as of today.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 1st July: Freeport
STARTS: 07/01/2020 2:10 PM EDT EXPIRES: 07/01/2020 5:30 PM EDT
Officers and marines step up to help colleague with his medical bills
OFFICERS and marines from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force recently came together to financially assist a recently retired comrade with his medical bills. Chief Petty Officer Marvin Newbold was diagnosed in 2014 with a kidney disease known as glomerul
CASUALTIES OF COVID CRISIS: Baha Mar begins mass layoffs just as flights resume
Bahamians were yesterday warned to brace for "more significant casualties" in the tourism industry as Baha Mar started terminating hundreds of workers.
Atlantis plays safe and delays opening
Atlantis has pushed its reopening back a further three weeks to July 30 to allow "a bit more calm to come into a unsettled market", a Cabinet minister said yesterday.
Developer defeats judgment attempt
An ex-convict’s bid to obtain summary judgment against a Harbour Island developer was this week rejected by a California judge. Judge Gary Klausner threw out the bid by Bernard Ross, who has a history of convictions and run-ins with law enforcement,
Super Value chief urges clarity over plastic bag ban
Super Value’s president is urging the government to clarify how it will tackle leftover single-use plastic products as the full ban on their use takes effect today. Rupert Roberts told Tribune Business he was unsure whether the Department of Environ
Abuse cases increased in lockdown
SOCIAL Services Minister Frankie Campbell said yesterday his ministry has received increased reports of domestic abuse and child abuse since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Teaching may have to adapt
EDUCATION officials are considering class rotations and limiting face-to-face instruction between teachers and students when the new school year begins, Minister of Education Jeff Lloyd said yesterday.
Officer cleared of beating women
AN officer accused of punching two Exuma women in the face last year has been acquitted of the charges brought against him before the police disciplinary tribunal.
Psychologist helps people work through trauma with new ‘brainspotting’ treatment
Local expert offers tele-therapy services
Brain-based therapy, according to experts, is the fastest growing area in the field of psychology. A fairly new type of therapy in this area is called “brainspotting”, developed by Dr David Grand, a renowned psychotherapist who was trained in eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR). This form of psychotherapy treatment, like brainspotting, was designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
Time to think of our children
Some have said that your opinion of the Andros project should be reserved until all that is proposed comes out.
Re-opening dates for day care centres and pre-school
BEGINNING July 16, all registered pre-schools and day care centres will be allowed to reopen, according to the Ministry of Education.
BAAA still committed to staging track & field meet at the end of July
WITH a lot of uncertainty still looming over the coronavirus pandemic, the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations is still committed to putting on a track and field meet at the end of the month.
The link between diabetes and urological health
There is a strong link between diabetes and many aspects of urological health.
Let’s get meal prepping
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.
Staying safe on your beach outing
Beaches in New Providence were opened yesterday for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the government to close them in late March. This weekend, Bahamians are expected to flock to locations like Goodman’s Bay, Saunders Beach and the Montagu foreshore to enjoy some fun in the sun.
Sent to prison for ATM scam
A 35-year-old man was sentenced to 16 months in prison yesterday after he admitted to defrauding three men by depositing empty envelopes to their bank accounts through ATM transactions to deceitfully remove cash from their accounts. Jackson Colebroo
Deal with shortcomings
During the last few weeks, following the white police officer killing of African American George Floyd, there has been a blizzard of posts on local social and news media with regard to racial inequality in the Bahamas with crusaders and lunatics alike, thankfully non-violent, coming out in imitation of our neighbours to the north.
Deandre joins forces with Facebook Gaming
Bahamian Deandre Ayton, preparing to head to Orlando, Florida, for the Phoenix Suns’ completion of the National Basketball Association competition 2019/20 season, is lending his support to another charitable cause in Arizona.
BSF looking to hold elections before end of the year
WITH their National Championships postponed until later this year, the Bahamas Swimming Federation is also looking at staging its election of officers before the year is over.
Attempted murder charge upgraded to murder
A 26-year-old man had his attempted murder charge upgraded to murder yesterday. Farron Palmer appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged with the death of Jaron Thompson on March 28. Palmer was initially charged with attempted murder in Apr
Don't let motorbike riders spoil it for all
At about 4.30 this afternoon, at least four trail bikes were observed tearing up and down the road inside the Montagu Park that runs parallel to the beach. The ignorant riders were popping wheelies and endangering the people in the area.
Man ordered to pay his child's mother $800 for her injuries
A MAN was ordered to pay $800 in compensation to his child’s mother after he admitted to harming her during a domestic dispute earlier this week. Ray Sands appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after he was accused of stabbing the mother of his
22-year-old pleads guilty to card fraud
A 22-year-old, man, who was accused of possessing fraudulent Bahamian documents, was arraigned in Magistrate’s Court yesterday. OcNeal Box appeared before Magistrate Sandradee Gardiner charged with two counts each of possession of forged documents a
BLTA time: Election of officers confirmed
THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) is scheduled to hold its election of officers at the National Tennis Centre between the hours of 3-6pm on Saturday.
Bimini targeting July 4 re-opening boost
Bimini businesses are hoping the re-opening of the island’s major resort in time for “one of the three busiest weekends of the year” will provide a post-lockdown boost. Neal Watson, owner of Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Centre, told Tribune Business of
GB chamber chief opposes trade zone going to Freeport
Grand Bahama’s Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said he does not support the proposed North Andros Free Trade Zone coming to Freeport. Gregory Laroda told Tribune Business that the project, conceived by Los Angeles billionaire philanthropist,
Andros businessman not against free trade concept
A North Andros businessman says he is not necessarily opposed to a free trade zone on the island although the present proposal is seeking too much land.William Pratt, part-owner of North Andros Automotive Parts Store, said the concept of creating a f
