Saturday, October 31
Man in hospital after shark attack
A Sweetings Cay resident is in hospital after a shark attack on Friday.
Govt scraps COVID-19 antigen testing for travelers upon arrival
THE government has scrapped the idea of COVID-19 antigen testing for travelers upon arrival in the country beginning November 1.
Sir Sean Connery – The Last Great Matinée Idol
To celebrate the life of Sir Sean Connery, who died on Saturday at the age of 90, The Tribune is posting this article written by Christopher Ondaatje for the Weekend section in 2017, which marvelled at the distinguished career of the award-winning Scottish actor.
Sir Sean Connery dies age 90
James Bond star and longtime Bahamas resident Sir Sean Connery has died aged 90.
Friday, October 30
Nonprofit 'Ma's Meals' reaffirms support for families hit by COVID-19
A LOCAL nonprofit organisation has reaffirmed its commitment to provide COVID-19 support to families negatively impacted by the health crisis.
National Pastors’ Alliance of Grand Bahama gives TVs to Rand COVID unit
THE Rand Memorial Hospital received over a dozen smart televisions for its new COVID unit, which is expected to open November 2 for patient care.
Man pleads guilty to breaking woman's office door
A 46-year-old man who claimed he broke a woman’s office door for attention was on Friday sentenced to four months in prison.
Man punched his children's mother after naked video call
A man who punched his children’s mother after he caught her naked on a video call with another person was placed on three months’ probation on Friday.
Man who gave police fake name fined $100
A 24-year-old man who gave a police officer a fake name while he was searched several days ago was fined $100 on Friday.
37 new COVID-19 cases, four more related deaths on Thursday
THIRTY-SEVEN new COVID-19 cases and four more related deaths were recorded on Thursday, pushing the nation’s coronavirus tally to 6,644.
10302020 EDITION
Friday, 30th October, 2020.
Former police sergeant charged over Exuma shooting death
A FORMER police sergeant was charged with manslaughter in connection with the shooting death of an Exuma man on Wednesday.
EDITORIAL: The silver lining on the cloud of debt
THE announcement yesterday that national debt is headed towards $8.9bn was an unsettling, yet expected moment.
PLP hits back on free testing
THE Progressive Liberal Party has hit out at Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis for his response to questions about calls for free COVID-19 testing.
DIANE PHILLIPS: From humble beginnings to representing The Bahamas
There is one memory that, no matter how many successes he racks up, Louby Georges can never forget.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Viral videos of shootings are classless
I must admit I was deeply saddened and perplexed after personally watching the sickening video that has gone “viral” of a man as he lay dying after a shooting incident involving an off-duty police officer on Exuma on Wednesday night.
The women who led the charge
The Royal Bahamas Defence Force is saluting the first group of females - who enlisted in the organisation 35 years ago.
Local experts take part alongside clinic director in webinar
LOCAL medical professionals will take part in a webinar this weekend alongside a senior official from Florida’s Cleveland Clinic.
No decision yet on P3 pledge
NEARLY 11 months after the Hurricane Dorian Pledging Conference was held, Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness Iram Lewis said the government is still engaged in discussions with the P3 Group.
Concern rising for residents of Spanish Wells
TWO Progressive Liberal Party senators are calling on the government to act urgently to protect the health and well-being of the residents of Spanish Wells amid rising COVID-19 cases.
More than 4,000 seek help for repairs to homes
DISASTER Reconstruction Authority officials revealed yesterday that over 4,000 people have registered for its Small Homes Repair programme in Abaco and Grand Bahama.
Jamaican firm takes 60% of food distributor
A publicly-traded Jamaican firm is "realising remarkable growth" upon entering the Bahamian food distribution market via its acquisition of a 60 percent majority stake in a local wholesaler.
Gov't exhausted $14m COVID food budget in 3 months
The Government exhausted the $13.9m budget it had provided to feed hungry Bahamians for the full 2020-2021 fiscal year within just three months, it was revealed yesterday.
BPL burden increase via new $246m loan
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) is facing an increased financial burden after being made responsible for servicing a $246m loan that paid out government guaranteed debt.
COVID 'confusion' hurts Sandals' Bahamas return
Sandals chief executive yesterday warned "not to hold on to" the February 1, 2021, re-opening date for its Bahamian resorts with this nation's COVID restrictions creating "confusion in the market".
‘Shut us down to ensure safety’
A Central Eleuthera official says a lockdown is necessary at this time due to rising COVID-19 numbers and increasing quarantine cases.
Questions over cop killer’s death in jail
ANDREW Omar Davis, a 43-year-old convicted of the 1999 murder of Constable Jimmy Ambrose and the attempted murder of Marcian Scott, died at the Department of Correctional Services on Wednesday night after complaining about shortness of breath.
SUSPECT SHOT DEAD ‘OVER BAG OF WEED’: Officer taken off duty as police open probe into Exuma shooting
AN Exuma man died about two hours after he was shot by an off-duty police officer on that island on Wednesday night, police said.
'Within the ball park': Gov't debt near $9bn
The Government's first quarter fiscal outturn was "within the ball park" of projections, the deputy prime minister said last night, as $692m in net borrowing drove its direct debt to almost $8.9bn.
Escaped detainee now back in custody
MINISTER of Immigration and Financial Services Elsworth Johnson has commended officers of the Immigration Department and the Royal Bahamas Police Force for swift and hard work in capturing a migrant who escaped from the country’s Detention Centre.
Man guilty of assaulting police officer
A 20-year-old man who assaulted a police officer and resisted lawful arrest was fined $175.
$500 fine for Eleuthera drugs sellers
TWO Eleuthera men who were caught last week selling drugs in Governor’s Harbour were each fined $500.
It’s time to legalise cannabis
Fire can be one of the most destructive forces on the planet, but it also is one that has been a valuable asset to humanity when harnessed and wielded correctly. Many other natural things in life follow the same template – they can be fabulous tools for good or they can be misused when in the wrong hands.
Six deaths confirmed in two days
FOUR more deaths were recorded on Thursday - following two confirmed on Wednesday in the latest date from the Ministry of Health.
Father attacked daughter with kettle over revealing photos
A 67-year-old man who assaulted his daughter with a tea kettle after she posted revealing photos of herself online was yesterday fined $1,000 and ordered to attend anger management classes.
Drunk man smashed brother’s window
A MAN who broke one of the windows of his brother’s house while he was intoxicated was placed on three months probation.
Marijuana not priority
I am constrained to compliment The Bahamas Christian Council on two of its most recent decisions.
Time for isolation stations?
We all tend to think that everyone exists as we do, and although we know better, we often make life decisions based upon our own life’s paradigm.
IAN FERGUSON: Get leadership's next generation ready now
Leadership skills are the abilities that one uses to guide a team toward successful outcomes and achieve company objectives. Whether you are overseeing a company or managing a project, your leadership skills can inspire others to reach their shared goals. Some of the most common leadership skills include communication, creativity, motivation, positivity and integrity.
Quality focus need for vacation rentals
Exuma's vacation rental industry must first focus on developing a consistent quality product before it can truly the promote the sector, the island's Chamber of Commerce head argued yesterday.
Airline backs off pre-flight Bahamas COVID testing
American Airlines has backed away from plans to conduct pre-flight COVID-19 testing on all international travellers coming to The Bahamas, a top tourism official revealed yesterday.
Newly-launched grant gets 411 applications
The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) has received 411 applications from businesses eager to access a $5,000 self-starter grant within a month of the initiative's launch.
Thursday, October 29
FRONT PORCH: Religious leaders would do well to remember what their real role is in our society
At the time of his death in 2013 at the age of 99, the American evangelist and Southern Baptist Minister Rev Billy Graham was a revered figure globally.
STATESIDE: Last rolls of the dice in a game which feels like it will never end
AREN’T you ready for the American presidential election to just happen already so newspapers and TV news shows can move on to something else for a change? Here’s a suggestion: How about really trying to get the coronavirus under control?
EDITORIAL: Lockdown still here as we open the doors
If anyone was expecting major changes from Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, they were soon disappointed.
Health authority wants your views in consultation
THE National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has released its latest public consultation paper and is asking for feedback.
Bookings are slow as the doors reopen to tourism
WITH the reopening of the tourism industry due on Sunday, one boutique property says bookings have been slow.
Alarm over runway lights in Acklins
MEMBER of Parliament for Englerston Glenys Hanna-Martin has raised alarm about the state of emergency runway lights at the airport in Acklins and called for the repair of all non-functioning emergency lights nationwide.
Stretching to make ends meet
THERE were mixed reactions from residents who were collecting parcels from various food distribution centres yesterday, with some complaining about the amount of goods given and the quality of the items while others were grateful for the help.
Culmer: FNM not disconnected
FREE National Movement Chairman Carl Culmer doesn’t believe the party is disconnected from Bahamians.
Rapid antigen tests not to spot cases with no symptoms
HEALTH officials say the rapid antigen tests, which are key to the country’s plan to reopen with relaxed requirements, are not useful in detecting the disease in asymptomatic carriers of the virus.
Official doesn’t believe there is a Spanish Wells outbreak
AMID reports of rising COVID-19 infections on Spanish Wells, one community official said while there have been several cases recently reported for the island, he does not believe there is an outbreak.
Cooper calls for urgent meeting over Scotiabank
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Deputy Leader Chester Cooper yesterday urged the government to seek immediate meetings with Scotiabank over its decision to end operations on four Family Islands, arguing the move will deal a “serious blow” to their already struggling economies.
Scotiabank: 93% of transactions at closing sites digital
Scotiabank (Bahamas) top executive yesterday said 93 percent of transactions at the five branches it plans to close are now being conducted over self-service or digital banking channels.
Atlantis affirms phased re-open before year-end
Atlantis yesterday reaffirmed its re-opening will take a phased approach with its "first guests" expected to return to Paradise Island before year-end 2020.
Man dies after being shot by off-duty officer in Exuma
A man died after a shooting incident involving an off-duty police officer in Exuma last night.
BBF gets funding, appeals for use of sporting facilities
The Bahamas Basketball Federation received its first funding to secure travel to the FIBA AmeriCup 2022 Qualifiers but federation president Mario Bowleg said the efforts may be hollow if the team is unable to adequately prepare for competition.
Robinson No. 39 overall, Chisholm No. 61 in MLB Pipeline top 100
FOLLOWING the completion of the 2020 Major League Baseball season, the pair of Kristian Robinson and Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm each achieved their highest rankings to date in the MLB Pipeline top 100.
MARATHON BAHAMAS 2021 GOES VIRTUAL
THE health, well-being and safety of our participants, sponsors, volunteers and staff have always been our top priority and remains so in these globally challenging circumstances surrounding COVID-19.
Water Corp's $2.5m solar outlay to drive sustainable rebuild
The Water and Sewerage Corporation's (WSC) executive chairman yesterday said its $2.5m Abaco solarisation project epitomised its drive to rebuild using more sustainable systems.
DPM praises efforts to regulate digital assets
The deputy prime minister yesterday hailed The Bahamas' efforts to regulate the fast-evolving financial technology (Fintech) industry as “bold” and “forward thinking".
Water Corp seeks extra $13m for Abaco rebuild
The Water & Sewerage Corporation will be seeking a minimum $13m in additional funding to complete the rebuilding of Abaco-based infrastructure that was devastated by Hurricane Dorian.
Oil opponents stoke fears for 122k jobs
Environmental activists yesterday warned the Prime Minister more than 122,000 Bahamian jobs could be in jeopardy if imminent oil exploration activities result in any accidental spills or pollution.
Marijuana chief admits 'dilemma' over bank threat
The Bahamas faces "a dilemma and serious concern" in developing a medical marijuana/hemp industry due to US legal restrictions, a Government advisory body co-chair conceded yesterday.
Albany targeting phased South Ocean expansion
Albany is planning a phased redevelopment of its South Ocean neighbour that will create several hundred construction jobs in the initial stages, environmental submissions have revealed.
Minnis tweaks emergency rules but high numbers of cases keep up the pressure
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced a slight relaxation in COVID-19 rules yesterday, but warned that Bahamians must get used to cycles that involve tightening and loosening of restrictions because the pandemic will be “with us well into next year”.
Two held after car chase
POLICE arrested two people after being led on a short car chase in New Providence yesterday, according to Chief Superintendent Shanta Knowles.
Three arrested over stabbing incident
THREE men were arrested in connection with a stabbing incident that left another man in hospital.
Balearia ferry service aims for November GB return
A FERRY service for passenger sailing between Fort Lauderdale and Grand Bahama is expected to resume next month.
Probation for harassing woman over six months
A MAN who harassed a woman by bombarding her with messages on social media was placed on six months’ probation yesterday.
$250 fine over a bowl of souse
A SAN SALVADOR woman who claimed she violated the weekend lockdown because she left her home to take her friend a bowl of souse was fined $250 yesterday.
Man fined $1,200 for joints
A 24-year-old man found with three pounds of marijuana was fined $1,200 yesterday.
Robbery suspect denied bail
A 27-year-old man was yesterday charged in connection with an attempted armed robbery that left a store employee wounded in August.
ART OF GRAPIX: Spotting 'red flags' for bad designers
l must admit that it can be tricky to accurately assess a person from a quick study of their resume and a brief interview or two. Candidates are obviously putting their best foot forward, and seasoned professionals have learned how to identify tell-tale signs of their true potential. This is particularly true when it comes to hiring bad graphic designers, making it pretty easy to spot them. Here are a number of signals identified as red flags to avoid.
What is the govt strategy?
We are in a complete crisis and this all across the world. Thousands of Bahamians are struggling daily, our economy is falling apart, jobs are at its lowest, and the virus at its highest.
The role of religion
The first thing to understand is a lot of religious leaders whilst being competent in theological matters are not necessarily well educated in other fields. Good orators, yes, and like magicians able to hold an audience’s attention but not intellectual powerhouses. There have been two issues in the last few days which highlight this.
Road Traffic backlog
The Ministry of Transport’s plan to reactivate the West Bay Street car-licensing facility is good news, but doesn’t go far enough.
Wednesday, October 28
ALICIA WALLACE: Why do we continue to allow the Church to pull the strings on so many aspects of our lives?
We have a serious problem with the relationship between the church (used here as shorthand for a select group of religious leaders speaking on behalf of Christian churches) and the State.
Oil dump at beach a ‘tragedy’
A LOCAL activist said the illegal oil dumping in the Barbary Beach area is a “tragedy” and has called for a severe penalty for those responsible.
Homeless and running out of hope
AFTER being kicked out of a home she shared with a friend, now homeless 45-year-old Carla Eugene is still left seeking somewhere to live.
Foulkes: Higher prices a result of COVID impact on costs
AMID complaints over price increases on certain goods in the country, Labour Minister Dion Foulkes said investigations conducted by the Price Control Commission have shown that higher costs are a “direct result” of COVID-19 impact’s on food costs worldwide.
Hotel workers say govt ‘not checking’ for them
HOTEL workers are feeling hopeless with mounting bills, little hope and a government, they feel, is “not checking” for them, several of them told The Tribune yesterday.
Acting Financial Secretary Johnson: I’m an atheist
ACTING Financial Secretary Marlon Johnson confirmed yesterday that he is an atheist, adding that his religious views should not matter when it comes to his public duties.
‘Endorsing civil unions is not seeking special rights’
A LOCAL LGBTQI group is hoping The Bahamas will follow the lead of Pope Francis in endorsing same sex civil unions.
‘Moore’s Island has been forgotten’
RESIDENTS of Moore’s Island, Abaco, say they want more assistance from the government as there has been little work done to restore the island to normalcy more than a year after Hurricane Dorian hit.
Dealers 'can't stay afloat' if 47% Q3 drop persists
Auto dealers yesterday warned they "cannot remain afloat" if the 2020 third quarter's 47.37 percent industry-wide decline in new auto sales persists.
Restaurant invests $10k for COVID's growing realities
A Bahamian restaurant yesterday said it has invested $10,000 in developing an e-commerce platform to meet the demands of COVID-19 lockdowns and business restrictions.
NCAA Division I basketball: Bahamians in top 25 rankings
THE NCAA Division I basketball season tips off on November 25 and several Bahamians - whether on the court as players or on the sidelines as members of the coaching staff - are prominently featured in top 25 rankings from various media outlets.
Jonquel Jones and Foxes continue to dominate Russian Premier League
JONQUEL Jones and her juggernaut UMMC Ekaterinburg Foxes club continue to dominate the Russian Premier League.
US 'cut off' fear on marijuana pursuit
The Bahamas faces being "cut off from the US" economy and financial system if its banks accept monies generated by a marijuana/hemp industry, top financial executives warned yesterday.
My ambition? Minnis can win it
FORMER Health Minister Dr Duane Sands said he believes the Free National Movement can win the next general election with Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis at the helm of the organisation, though he cautioned that the party faces challenges.
Grocers implore PM to end weekend lockdown
THE Retail Grocers Association has called for the end to the weekend lockdowns along with the 7pm curfew, insisting the measures have left businesses teetering on the edge of bankruptcy.
'Banking desert' fears following Scotia pull-out
Long Island's MP yesterday voiced fears his constituency will become "a banking desert" after Scotiabank unveiled plans to withdraw from four Family Islands with a series of branch closures.
$100m Love Beach condo project revives
A $100m Love Beach condominium project's planners yesterday voiced optimism that changes to the original design will "overcome" prior objections from nearby residents.
Man faces court accused of harbouring fugitive
A 42-year-old man was charged with harbouring a fugitive wanted in connection with the John Bull robbery in Grand Bahama several years ago.
13 months in jail for firearm guilt
A 23-year-old man was sentenced to 13 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to an illegal firearm and ammunition possession in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
$250 fine for marijuana
A 31-year-old man who was found last week with over an ounce of marijuana was fined $250 yesterday.
$75 fine for resisting arrest
A 45-year-old man was fined $75 for resisting arrest when an officer responded to a domestic complaint.
Woman accused of stealing food
A 37-year-old woman was remanded to prison charged with stealing an assortment of food items from a local restaurant on Paradise Island last week.
Beware the paid vote
In our system of government, multiple functions and powers of the different branches are often vested in a single individual.
What about rehabilitation?
I’ve not met anyone who opposes the government’s decision to expunge the criminal record of persons convicted of possessing small amounts of marijuana. Why? It is the right thing to do.
Lockdowns not the answer
I travelled to the United States in July when the borders first opened, and was in three different cities. I also went again in September this time travelling from different states. Although there is a pandemic, what I realised was that persons were working as normal, but the set ups were different. In fact, clothing stores, malls, food stores, restaurants and bars, etc. were all opened and not just to curbside services, but also indoor services too.
Tuesday, October 27
Lockdown's mental toll
We are eight months into the COVID-19 pandemic, little has changed, and lockdowns are still the go-to method to curbing the spread of the new coronavirus.
Cancer isn’t a death sentence
FOR 28-year-old breast cancer survivor Zitalia Fox, the journey was not an easy one.
Win the morning
Despite what many people think I was never really a morning person. I was always one of those people who struggled to get out of bed during the week and never really got around to life until early afternoon on the weekend.
Viagra for Women
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on June 21, 2019, approved the new "female Viagra", a sexual libido enhancing medication called Vyleesi. Vyleesi is not a pill; it is a self or partner-administered injectable that should be given 45 minutes before sexual intercourse. It has been recommended that Vyleesi should not be administered more than once in a 24-hour period and it should not be used more than eight times in a given month.
Friends in deed
THE Friends of The Library Committee, Eleuthera, is stepping up to be friends for the community during the pandemic.
16 days to prevent violence
Standing against the recent spike in domestic violence incidences in the country, the Zonta Club of New Providence is readying to launch a campaign to “Stop Violence against Women, Girls and Children”.
Uniting to bring peace
The Rotary Clubs of The Bahamas are joining forces in an effort to end domestic violence.
EDITORIAL: Listen to those who offer a better path
SINCE he resigned his post as Minister of Health, Dr Duane Sands has been an increasingly vocal figure commenting on the government’s approach to tackling COVID-19.
PETER YOUNG: Britain and Europe still fishing in troubled waters
NO doubt to the consternation of many, Brexit is back in the news again this week.
Two women airlifted after car crash in Abaco
TWO women have been airlifted to New Providence after a car accident in Abaco left them with injuries.
FACE TO FACE: Shining a light on those living with blindness
As October comes to an end, I wanted to recognise a group that deserves just as much attention as other NGOs celebrating important causes this month.
Three taken to hospital after boating incident
THREE people were taken to hospital with minor injuries following a boating accident in the Dover Sound area of East Grand Bahama yesterday afternoon.
Road Traffic to open extra facility to reduce queues
THE Road Traffic Department will reopen a satellite agency to make the licensing and inspection process smoother for motorists.
Union in talks with ZNS over handling of virus case
THE Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union is in discussion with ZNS management in Grand Bahama over the handling of an incident there when an employee became ill at work and later tested positive with COVID-19.
Bahamas ranked low on response
THE Bahamas is ranked 182 out of 184 countries in the COVID-19 recovery index, according to one Global COVID-19 Index (GCI).
Davis wants answers on data behind the decisions
OFFICIAL Opposition Leader Philip “Brave” Davis charged yesterday that the country has become a case study of how not to manage a public health crisis.
Senior pastor speaks on Golden Gates changes
THE senior pastor of Golden Gates Assembly yesterday said although he had previously stated he could not force the church to do anything, he changed his mind because he did not trust the pastors protesting the appointment of his son as the organisation’s next senior pastor.
Police probe launched over illegal oil dumping
AN active police investigation is underway in connection with the discovery of illegal oil dumping in the Barbary Beach area of East Grand Bahama.
Rebranded bank targets 40% managed asset rise
A Bahamian investment bank is targeting up to 40 percent growth for its assets under management by the mid-2020s as it eyes expansion into territories such as Jamaica "over the next year".
Bran: 'Talk cheap, money buy land' on ganja sector
The Democratic National Alliance's (DNA) ex-leader has urged The Bahamas to move "post haste" on developing a medical marijuana and hemp industry, saying: "Talk is cheap and money buy land."
'Informal economy': 75% of SMES at disadvantage
Some 75 percent of small Bahamian businesses face a persistent competitive disadvantage because they are up against rivals in an "informal economy" that generates up to 30 percent of Bahamian GDP.
Tourism losing $8.5m yearly to plastic pollution
The Bahamian tourism industry is losing up to $8.5m annually to plastic beach pollution, an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report has revealed, undermining the sector's key attraction.
Suppliers deny long contractor wait time
Building supply and hardware stores say contractors are not having to endure long wait times in their efforts to secure essential supplies.
Eleuthera businesses suffer 'tremendous' water cut-off hit
Businesses in central Eleuthera yesterday complained that their operations were affected “tremendously" by the water supply cut-off over the past week.
Water Corp chief: Cut-off supplier was given $4m
The reverse osmosis plant operator that cut-off central Eleuthera's water supply has been paid $4m this year to cover debts owed by the Water & Sewerage Corporation, it was disclosed yesterday.
Johnson: ‘Clean athletes should demand better from their federation’
SHAUNAE Miller-Uibo has been vocal about her displeasure with the decision in Salwa Eid Naser’s whereabouts case – which cleared the Bahraini sprinter of any wrongdoing and now other icons in the sport have joined the growing chorus of scepticism.
Buffaloes retire Buddy Hield’s No.24 jersey
Chavano “Buddy” Hield was honoured by the programme where he concluded his high school career, a place vital on his journey toward NBA stardom and a place he calls his second home.
Kadeem, Mark and Travis top performers among Bahamians
KADEEM Coleby, Mark St Fort and Travis Munnings were several of the top performers among Bahamian basketball players active in their respective programmes over the weekend.
Time to revisit vehicle inspection outsourcing
A Bahamian auto dealer yesterday suggested the COVID-related backlogs and shortages at the Road Traffic Department should reignite discussions on outsourcing the vehicle inspection process.
Coleby posts double double in Turkey debut
AFTER a strong preseason, Dwight Coleby made his 2020 debut in the Turkey Basketball League.
36 new cases and four deaths
THIRTY-SIX additional COVID-19 cases were recorded yesterday along with four more deaths.
Grand Lucayan sale needs 'double deal'
The Grand Lucayan's sale will not close until Royal Caribbean and its joint venture partner have sealed the deal for Freeport Harbour, a Cabinet minister disclosed to Tribune Business.
‘Sermons can’t be censored’
THE head of the Bahamas Christian Council Bishop Delton Fernander said Bahamians must be careful of forming a “sermon censoring” society.
‘Majority of non-hotel staff now back at work’
Minister of Labour Dion Foulkes yesterday claimed that the vast majority of Bahamians laid off due to the pandemic are now back at work.
‘OUR COVID TACTICS ARE NOT WORKING’: Sands and Davis united in condemning road map for dealing with crisis
THE government’s approach to tackling COVID-19 is not working - according to both former Health Minister Dr Duane Sands and Opposition leader Philip ‘Brave’ Davis.
Comments by Bishop Ellis
I consider Bishop Neil C Ellis to be a spiritual giant in the Bahamian Christian community who is considered a spiritual father to many young clergymen. With a membership in the thousands coupled with an international reach that extends throughout the United States of America and the Caribbean, if there’s one Bahamian preacher of the gospel one would think would have the listening ear of the Free National Movement (FNM) administration and Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis, it would be Ellis.
COVID-19 approach
The whole idea of public health is predicated upon knowledge. Knowledge based on years of medical understanding. Knowledge of a pandemic. Knowledge of how and who to test, to quarantining, to isolation and lock downs, all of it is knowledge driven. That is why I am absolutely confused and angered by the stance taken by this government’s COVID Surveillance Unit.
Monday, October 26
EDITORIAL: Ellis offers criticism, but no solutions
BISHOP Neil Ellis was the talk of social media yesterday, after he took a break from rendering unto God to loudly condemn Caesar.
WORLD VIEW: OAS General Assembly failed the people of the Americas
ANYONE who followed the 50th regular session of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS), would be forgiven for believing it was held to discuss Venezuela and Nicaragua.
INSIGHT: When lockdown comes, COVID takes a toll on mental health in the home
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Family: People Helping People Project - financed through a grant from the Templeton World Charity Foundation - met with over 300 participants in weekly supportive group therapy. These groups met in various locations including The Bahamas Department of Corrections, Kemp Road, East Street etc.
INSIGHT: Sally’s army may be small but it’s doing its bit to bring vital help to those most in need
As it stands we can safely say The Bahamas is in a crisis and needs an ‘all hands on deck’ call out to all of its Good Samaritans. Sally Van Tooren has heard that call and has decided that no one in the capital will go hungry under her watch.
INSIGHT: Forget Halloween, is November 1 the day we should be really scared of?
JUST a mere six days from now, we will be taking our second crack at reopening the tourism sector. Here it is, COVID-19 cases are surging with no flattening of the curve in sight, despite the reinstitution of stricter containment measures.
Institute seeks to ease worries - but neighbours remain uneasy
THE POINCIANA Recovery Institute has not opened its doors yet, but the operation is already in the midst of controversy.
Full steam ahead - as three million rapid tests secured
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar said the country is moving “full steam ahead” with reopening next month.
Teacher tests positive at school in Grand Bahama
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson said that the union is closely monitoring the situation at the Freeport Primary School in Grand Bahama after a teacher there tested positive for COVID-19.
Human rights group supports Pope over civil unions call
RIGHTS Bahamas has applauded Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church, for calling for the creation of civil union laws for same-sex couples.
Bahamas misses over marine genetics share
The Bahamian people are earning nothing from foreign exploitation of this nation's marine genetic resources that has produced over 100 "new natural products", a report has revealed.
BPL fears Gov't borrowing strike for $535m raise
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) is "concerned" it will be forced to pay a high price to place its $535m bond issue due to the Government's recent borrowing, a Cabinet minister has revealed.
Supplier 'crossed line' on Eleuthera water shutdown
A Cabinet minister yesterday blasted a water plant operator for "endangering the lives of Bahamians" by cutting off supply to central Eleuthera residents due to a dispute with the Water & Sewerage Corporation.
Minister: Tourists won't visit Nassau under lockdown
The Competent Authority will have to "give significant thought" as to whether the tourism industry can re-open on November 1 amid the current COVID-19 restrictions, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.
Cursed - or is just the way things are?
ActivTrades
POPULAR wisdom often refers to an old Chinese curse: May you live through interesting times. The point being that the humdrum of a quiet and stable life is preferable to the excitement and uncertainty of the unforeseeable.
Bahamians told: Cyber crime 'not if, but when'
Bahamian companies and individuals have been urged to adopt the “not if, but when" approach to combating hacking and other cyber crimes by a senior Central Bank information technology (IT) official.
Principle more important than revenue on Facebook ad VAT
A top Ministry of Finance official says the principle behind Facebook levying VAT on Bahamas-linked advertisements is more important than any revenue that will be earned by the Government.
'Perfect time' to clean up downtown eyesores
The Downtown Nassau Partnership's (DNP) co-chair says "this is the perfect time" to clean-up Bay Street, with owners of dilapidated and abandoned buildings put on notice they are running out of time.
Johnson ends up No.26 overall in virtual world chess championship
WOMAN Candidate Master (WCM) Daijah Johnson concluded her historic run at the International School Sports Federation’s (ISF) Virtual World Schools Championship against a field that comprised some of the top players across the globe.
Shaquillo Fritz makes pro debut in Spain
SHAQUILLO Fritz made his professional debut for Hero Jairis in Spain’s Liga Espanola de Baloncesto (LEB Silver).
331 new cases since Thursday
FIFTY-SIX COVID-19 cases were announced on Sunday, according to the Ministry of Health, bringing the amount of cases recorded between Thursday and yesterday to 331.
Playing politics in the pulpit
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has defended his role as competent authority amid scathing attacks from Mount Tabor pastor Bishop Neil Ellis, who earlier on Sunday raised concern about the “dangerous” amount of power vested in one man.
Churches hold firm against marijuana
THE Bahamas Christian Council does not support plans for a marijuana or a hemp industry, saying this is not the solution for the country’s woes.
Police launch probe as man is found dead
POLICE on New Providence are investigating the circumstances surrounding a man’s death on Saturday.
Lyford Cay value open to question
It would be interesting to see an explanation of the analysis supporting the claims in your article headed “Lyford Cay Wages Equal $3k to All Nassau Families” (Business Section, October 23rd).
Detainee escapes Carmichael
OFFICIALS are searching for an escaped detainee from the Carmichael Road Detention Centre.
Plane skids off runway in Freeport
AN American Eagle plane skidded off the runway at Grand Bahama International Airport on Saturday, with two passengers taken to hospital.
End WSC experiment
Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader Philip “Brave” Davis made a valid argument when he chastised the Free National Movement (FNM) government over Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) Chair Adrian Gibson’s request to resume WSC’s disconnection exercise during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Gibson’s claim that private customers collectively owe the corporation $9m pales in comparison to the alleged $80m owed by state-run agencies, as per Davis.
Burglary suspect shot by police
A HOUSEBREAKING suspect was taken to hospital after he was shot by police on Thursday.
Sunday, October 25
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 25th October: Nassau
STARTS: 10/25/2020 7:00 AM EDT EXPIRES: 10/25/2020 10:00 AM EDT
Saturday, October 24
UPDATED: American Eagle plane skids off runway in Freeport
An American Eagle plane skidded off the runway at Grand Bahama International Airport on Saturday.
Friday, October 23
Commissioner: Marijuana still illegal - and you'll be locked up if caught with it
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle made it clear on Friday those found with “dope” will get locked up until the law changes as possession of the substance is still illegal today.
218 COVID cases in police force to date
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle revealed on Friday that there have been 218 COVID-19 cases in the force to date.
ZNS staff worried over COVID protocols
ZNS employees in Freeport are very concerned that proper protocols were not taken by management when a staffer who became ill at work last week tested positive for COVID-19.
10222020 OBITUARIES AND RELIGION
Thursday, 22nd October, 2020.
Importance of US vote
US election and Russia – Russia is again actively participating in the spread of disinformation in an attempt to get Trump re-elected.
EDITORIAL: Time to breathe life into Downtown
WE don’t need to tell you about the number of rundown buildings in Downtown Nassau.
LETTER: We care
We are living in uncertain times. For many the light at the end of the tunnel is no longer visible. A lack of planning infused with a massive dose of corruption has led to the destruction of the moral fabric and economy of The Bahamas. Fortunately there are people who genuinely care about The Bahamas and they are speaking up and being proactive to protect the country.
LETTER: ZNS unmasked
Why are reporters at ZNS interviewing people who are not wearing face masks? Could this be one of the reasons the station keeps shutting down with COVID-19 issues?
Lyford Cay wages equal $3k to all Nassau families
Lyford Cay's annual wage bill generates the equivalent of $2,858 for every New Providence household as part of a total $453m economic impact, a government-appointed committee has revealed.
Realtor chief 'annoyed' over tax hike proposals
The Bahamas Real Estate Association's (BREA) president yesterday admitted she was "a little annoyed" that proposals have been made to increase taxes related to the sector without its input.
'Curb-side killing construction': 40% productivity decline
An ex-Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president yesterday said the sector had suffered a 30-40 percent productivity fall due to COVID-19 restrictions, adding: "Curb-side is killing construction."
DIANE PHILLIPS: 'Twas the day before lockdown
’Twas the day before lockdown And all through the aisles Shoppers were frantic Skipping manners and smiles
A Comic's View: Watch out, it's silly season
Whether some of you realise it or not, “silly season” is upon us again and the three major parties, FNM, PLP and DNA are already jostling for position.
Bahamas to eliminate abuse by tax dodgers
The Bahamas will eliminate all opportunities for tax dodgers to abuse its financial system by year-end 2020 with the launch of its Tax Residency Certificate (TRC), a Cabinet minister said yesterday.
BAMSI brings fresh produce for Ranfurly children
THE Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute donated produce from its North Andros farm to the Ranfurly Homes for Children yesterday.
Tureano: ‘I’m going to expose his weaknesses’ on fight night
One week away from fight night, Tureano Johnson and Jaime Munguia have different motivations headed into their bout, but both look to ascend the rankings in the middleweight division.
Hurricanes coaching staff optimistic on defensive lineman Elijah’s potential
THE Miami Hurricanes coaching staff is optimistic on the potential of true freshman defensive lineman Elijah Roberts.
Rookie Adam Johnson continues to post standout numbers
ADAM Johnson is continuing to post standout numbers in his rookie season of professional basketball.
'No one affected by hurricane asked for new documents'
IMMIGRATION Director Clarence Russell said yesterday that no one affected by Hurricane Dorian has come forward seeking to have destroyed documents replaced.
Recovery strategy exposes 'lost years'
The Economic Recovery Committee's (ERC) report is an admission The Bahamas has "wasted three to four years" that may have given it a head-start on COVID-19 recovery, a top banker said yesterday.
Relative of infected police officer hits out at lack of contact tracing
A RELATIVE of a COVID-19 positive police officer has claimed officials have not done any contact tracing or checked on members of his household for possible infection spread.
Watch out - more bad weather on the way
THUNDERSTORMS and showers are forecast to linger for the next few days into Monday, according to local meteorologist Shezelle Mather.
Minnis: Reports that I have COVID are grossly exaggerated
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has insisted he has not contracted COVID-19.
Consular staff abused finances
THE Auditor General has highlighted abuse of educational allowance in the amount of $167,000 at the Consulate General of the Bahamas’ Miami office.
BPL pulls plug on 8,700 late payers
SINCE announcing it would resume customer disconnections back in July, Bahamas Power and Light has turned off 8,741 residential accounts in New Providence and the Family Islands.
$2,000 fine for four ounces of marijuana
A man found with over four ounces of marijuana was yesterday fined $2,000.
Saved after being adrift for eight days
Two Turks and Caicos nationals were rescued off Inagua yesterday morning during a joint effort by members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, police and the US Coast Guard.
Man who dragged ex-girlfriend onto road during row fined $500
A 30-year-old man, accused of dragging his former girlfriend on the road during an argument earlier this month, was yesterday fined $500.
Government urged to speed up Downtown demolitions
THE Downtown Nassau Partnership has called on the government to get serious with owners of abandoned and dilapidated buildings on Bay Street.
Probation for punching father unconscious
A 20-year-old, who punched his father unconscious last month during a domestic dispute, was put on probation for six months.
Man fined and told to pay damages for smashing woman’s windshield
A MAN who threw a rock at a woman and damaged her car’s windshield was fined $200 and ordered to pay for the damage he had caused.
Retrial for Vasyli
THE Court of Appeal ordered a retrial for Donna Vasyli yesterday regarding the murder of her husband.
84 new cases and three more deaths as surge continues
EIGHTY-FOUR additional COVID-19 cases were recorded on Wednesday along with three more deaths.
Thursday, October 22
EDITORIAL: What do economic measures mean for you?
READERS may be forgiven if, after looking at the announcements made on extending the emergency powers and the recommendations for the recovery of the economy, they asked one question: What does all this mean for me?
FRONT PORCH: Pope Francis and the Gospel of Love
When Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina was elected as pope in 2013 at the age of 76 and took the name Francis in memory of St Francis of Assisi (1181 or 1182-1226), a beloved relative proclaimed: “Pope Francis is not just going back to St Francis. He is going all the way back to Jesus and the gospel of love and mercy.”
STATESIDE: Watch out for those polls - there’s a whisper The Donald could actually win
A friend here in Washington keeps close tabs on the US and its upcoming big election. She watches cable TV and she also reads some big American newspapers online and looks at The Economist, a British publication that may offer greater insight than many American news outlets. All things considered, she is up to date.
Protest group stopped from marching to Parliament
MEMBERS of the advocacy group Operation Sovereign Bahamas along with some out of work Atlantis employees were stopped yesterday morning from marching to Parliament.
Turnquest hits out at illegal oil dumping
DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Peter Turnquest yesterday condemned those responsible for illegal oil dumping in East Grand Bahama and warned they will be aggressively pursued by police.
Moultrie in ultimatum over office
HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie said he will turn in the key for his office at the end of this month because of its poor condition and that parliamentarians can hold a vote of no confidence in him over his position if they want.
PAHO: Testing the best way
THE Pan American Health Organisation says testing is the best way to slow the spread of COVID-19 and countries in the region should take that route.
ZNS accused of failing on protocols
A local civic leader has accused management at ZNS Freeport of not following proper protocols when an employee there recently tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently hospitalised.
Legalising marijuana urged - and expunging records
THE Economic Recovery Committee has recommended that up to two ounces of marijuana be made legal for personal use in The Bahamas – this as Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced yesterday that criminal records for those convicted of having small amounts of the substance will be expunged starting next year.
‘Cut jobless payments to $75 a week’
THE Economic Recovery Committee has recommended a reduction to extended National Insurance Board unemployment benefit payments to $75 per week.
Bahamas faces 'now or fail' predicament
The Economic Recovery Committee's (ERC) co-chair yesterday said none of its proposals will cure The Bahamas' ills by themselves, amid warnings that the country must "reform now or fail".
Gov't urged to 'double' $50m SME funding
The Government was yesterday urged to double the $250m it plans to invest in small businesses over the next five years by removing restrictions on foreign participation in these entities.
DPM: Bond attacks 'pie in sky thinking'
The deputy prime minister yesterday slammed arguments that The Bahamas' $600m bond issue was over-priced as "pie in the sky thinking" while revealing $133m in debt repayments have been delayed.
Recovery Committee: 'No sound ideas' for Freeport
The Economic Recovery Committee's report was yesterday blasted by a Freeport-based attorney for failing to propose a single idea for boosting Grand Bahama's economic growth.
Increase food output 'eight-fold' to $1.2bn
The Government was yesterday urged to adopt the "ambitious goal" of increasing the agriculture and fisheries' sectors' combined output "eight-fold" to $1.2bn over the next decade.
PM says he has NOT contracted COVID
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis told The Tribune on Thursday he has not tested positive for COVID-19.
MLB Top 30 Prospects: Several Bahamian players are listed
MAJOR League Baseball produced its first Top 30 Prospects for each franchise of the offseason and several Bahamian players were listed for their respective clubs. Kristian Robinson continues to head the list as the No.1 prospect of the Arizona Diamondbacks while Jazz Chisholm remains the No. 4 prospect of the Miami Marlins.
Jasrado Chisholm reflects on historic season
JAZZ Chisholm’s historic 2020 season had several milestones and one primary lesson learned which he hopes will set the stage for a long career in Major League Baseball. “Trust your routine, 100 percent your routine. Everything has to do with what you do every day because your body reacts to what you do every day, so I learned that very quickly,” Chisholm said on the MLB Pipeline Podcast with Jonathan Mayo.
$100m condo project to start in Spring 2021
A Bahamian developer yesterday said it plans to begin construction on a $100m high-end oceanfront condominium complex at Cable Beach in Spring 2021.
Grant plan's $450,000 for 100 Dorian victims
More than 100 Grand Bahama entrepreneurs have been awarded a collective $450,000 in Dorian restoration funding during a five-month Small Business Recovery (SBR) grant initiative.
Marijuana proposals branded 'great news'
A major marijuana advocate yesterday hailed as "great news" proposals by the Economic Recovery Committee to develop a legalised hemp industry for The Bahamas' own benefit.
PM 'disappointed' over retailers' online absence
The Prime Minister yesterday said he was "disappointed" that some major Bahamian retailers have not established an online presence as he pushed back against merchant complaints on curb-side sales.
PLP oppose extension to state of emergency
THE Progressive Liberal Party says it will not support another extension of the state of emergency to extend “the sole competent authority’s power to control the lives of the Bahamian people” for another month.
Shaunae challenges World Athletics to take action on Naser doping case ruling
Shaunae Miller-Uibo may have been the athlete most impacted by Salwa Eid Naser’s doping rule violation and the Bahamian athletics icon spoke publicly to express her views on the controversial decision.
Time to build new hospital
With COVID 19 spreading like wildfire in The Bahamas, the Bahamian people are now finally focusing on the facilities at the Princess Margaret Hospital. They say it’s too small, it isn’t efficient, and a new one should be built.
Man denies lying to police officer
A MAN who denied lying to a police officer was granted $1,000 bail ahead of his trial.
Six months jail for joint of marijuana
A 33-year-old man who claimed he smoked marijuana to help him breathe better was yesterday sentenced to six months in prison.
Bail granted in road death case
A 25-year-old man who was accused of killing another man last month by driving recklessly was granted $10,000 bail ahead of his trial.
Front Porch eating crow
The individual or individuals behind the pseudonym, Front Porch, now a weekly columnist for The Tribune, are paragons of Bahamian left-wing liberalism.
We Are Blessed
We are told in James 1:2 (KJV) "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations." Very simply, there is joy associated with what we hear, speak and do during life's difficult moments. We will inevitably face trials in life but this should be embraced by the believer as something positive.
CHAMPS creates path to healing
HOPING to heal those wounded and hurting, the CHAMPS organisation (Chosen, Honoured, Appointed, Motivated, Positive Sisters) presented its “Pathway to Healing” virtual event that saw hundreds take par.
DEATH CRASH PROBE
POLICE are continuing investigations into a traffic accident that took the life of a motorcyclist on Tuesday.
Security and product quality vital for Digital Marketplace
A Bahaman information technology (IT) provider yesterday backed the proposal to create a National Digital Marketplace, but warned that transaction security and product quality are key issues to address.
Wednesday, October 21
PM and Cabinet to quarantine after Bannister tests positive for COVID-19
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and all Cabinet ministers are to quarantine after Minister of Works Desmond Bannister tested positive for COVID-19.
Emergency powers set to continue 'til November 30
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis on Wednesday announced the government's intention to extend the country’s state of emergency until November 30.
128 COVID-19 cases, three more deaths on Tuesday
ONE hundred and twenty-eight additional COVID-19 cases were reported on Tuesday along with three more deaths, according to the Ministry of Health.
GM to run robot cars in San Francisco without human backups
DETROIT (AP) — General Motors’ Cruise autonomous vehicle unit says it will pull the human backup drivers from its vehicles in San Francisco by the end of the year.
Nokia to build moon’s first 4G cell network for NASA
LONDON (AP) — Nokia says it has been tapped by NASA to build the first cellular communications network on the moon.
EDITORIAL: If lockdowns aren’t working, what next?
OVER and over in the battle against COVID-19, we have said that our approach is led by advice from health experts.
ALICIA WALLACE: We need to join up thinking - and action - to tackle gender-based violence
IT IS Domestic Violence Awareness Month and, story after story, our attention is drawn to the broader issue of the gender-based violence we are failing to address.
Residents sue over insurance after destruction of Dorian
GRAND Bahama homeowners whose residential properties were destroyed a year ago during Hurricane Dorian are taking legal action in the Supreme Court against a major bank and insurance companies for allegedly failing to pay premiums on their insurance policies.
‘Coral Harbour needs help to stop this nightmare’
A Coral Harbour resident is seeking help for the area’s long-standing flooding issues, a problem that resurfaced due to New Providence’s recent rainy weather.
‘We need new ways to prevent flooding’
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister said major flooding in Pinewood Gardens last week shows new ways of preventing flooding are needed because climate change is rendering traditional mechanisms obsolete.
High school closes doors after positive COVID result
CV Bethel Senior High School shut its doors yesterday, sending home a small number of educators on campus due to one testing positive for COVID-19.
Mortgage Corp: Taxpayer bail-out is 'not an option'
A taxpayer-funded bail-out is "not an option" for repaying the Bahamas Mortgage Corporation's $110m bond debt that will start coming due within three years, its chairman said yesterday.
Extend tax breaks again so Abaco, GB 'roar back'
The further extension of Hurricane Dorian tax breaks is vital to the ability of Abaco and Grand Bahama's economies to "come roaring back", private sector leaders urged yesterday.
Dive operator eyes comeback on Thanksgiving
A prominent Bahamian dive operator yesterday said he is aiming to re-open for the Thanksgiving weekend as he readies to move to facilitate Albany's south-west New Providence expansion.
Stop 'dictating' FDI direction, banker warns
The Bahamas must be more willing to open up to foreign direct investment (FDI) in non-traditional areas to have any hope of paying-off rising US dollar debt, a top investment banker is arguing.
'Ridiculous' curb-side driving retail to close
Retailers yesterday warned they are mulling indefinite closures due to "ridiculous" COVID-19 curb-side sales restrictions that have resulted in most losing money or breaking-even at best.
Restaurant at point of 'cheaper to be closed'
A Bahamian restaurant owner yesterday said he has closed indefinitely from Monday because curb-side only sales are unsustainable, adding: "You come to a point where it is cheaper to be closed."
Minister: 'Slightest thing could derail' Shell talks
A Cabinet minister yesterday warned that the “slightest thing” can "derail" negotiations between the Shell North America and Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) on New Providence's new power plant.
‘Tank’ Williams becomes head trainer for Sarah Mahfoud
BAHAMIAN heavyweight boxer Sherman “Tank” Williams has transitioned to the sidelines for the first time in his storied career and became the head trainer for Sarah Mahfoud as she chases titles in women’s boxing. Mahfoud (10-0), the current IBF featherweight title holder, is set to face Amanda Serrano (38-1-1) on December 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada with Williams in her corner for the second consecutive fight.
Tribune Radio names group sales manager
The Tribune Media Group has appointed Vanessa Mott as sales manager for all the stations that come under Tribune Radio Ltd (Radio House).
Mike Sands: ‘We have to get the message out about who is NACAC’
THE North American, Central American and the Caribbean (NACAC), in its bid to bridge the gap in all aspects of the region, hosted a virtual meeting with the media to ascertain the way forward and, in particular, the highly acclaimed CARIFTA Games as it reaches close to its 50th anniversary. The meeting was hosted by NACAC’s newly elected president Mike Sands and facilitated by Trinidad & Tobago’s journalist Kwame Laurence and local photographer Kermit Taylor and events manager Dianne Woodside-Johnson.
Naser wins doping case on technicality
GENEVA (AP) — The women’s 400-metre world champion has avoided being banned for a doping rule violation on a technicality, according to a ruling published yesterday. The Athletics Integrity Unit said the charges against Bahraini runner Salwa Eid Naser for missed tests and filing failures were dismissed by an independent tribunal.
Man killed in Eastern Road traffic accident
ONE man was killed yesterday and another reportedly injured in a traffic accident on Eastern Road.
On-off lockdown - is it worth it? Senior health official suggests weekend closures may do little
WITH nearly 300 COVID-19 cases recorded over the last several days, a local infectious diseases expert has suggested partial lockdowns have not been an effective tool in stopping the spread of the deadly virus in The Bahamas.
Shanty town families mostly ‘legal’
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister said people with work permits – not illegal residents – are largely the occupants of a shanty town in North Andros targeted for government demolition.
‘Brennen’s switch to U.S. is fine with me’
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis confirmed yesterday that Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Delon Brennen has relocated to Baltimore, Maryland, and is working remotely on border issues related to COVID-19.
Brother's keeper
On January 4, 2020, the World Health Organisation reported that there was a cluster of pneumonia cases found in the Wuhan Province in China. Later, it was discovered that this was due to COVID-19. Johns Hopkins Medicine described COVID-19, aka the Corona virus, as a highly contagious respiratory illness easily transmitted through droplets released in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Robbery retrial ordered over counsel’s withdrawal
THE Court of Appeal yesterday ordered a retrial for a man who was convicted of robbery, after he argued the trial judge did not give him adequate time to prepare his defence after his counsel withdrew from his case.
Brothers sent to jail for theft
TWO brothers who broke into a man’s house and stole $100 worth of electronics were yesterday sentenced to three months in prison.
Recently released from jail - and back in court for not wearing a face mask
A MAGISTRATE yesterday discharged a young man who was summoned to court for leaving his home without a face mask.
Wants vs needs
It seems as if politicians can’t seem to tell the difference between wants and needs when it comes to spending the taxpayer’s money.
Visiting Bahamas
My husband and I have had a long association with The Bahamas having first come to Nassau for work assignments nearly forty years ago. Our children are also now visiting and we always come and stay in the winter months.
Tech Talk
• As automation and online work gain ground, organisers of the annual Davos forum are projecting employers will split work equally between machines and people by 2025, with the coronavirus pandemic accelerating changes in the labour market.
Tuesday, October 20
What's your end goal?
I know that most of us are familiar with the goal setting phase and even with my clients I stress the importance of setting goals. We typically use the SMART goal model – specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-based goals.
Helping to feed the hungry
A DONATION of $20,000 is going to help feed more Bahamians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
'A bittersweet ending to search for my mother'
NICOLE Lightbourn, who featured in Tribune Woman last week and who has been on a quest to find her biological mother, will sadly never have that reunion she has dreamt of all her life. After going public with her story about being adopted, Nicole learnt her birth mother Laurie Brennen passed away in 2006.
Nicole’s brother also trying to locate family
HOPING to have the same good fortune as his sister Nicole Lightbourne who was able to find her biological family, adopted brother Nathan Lightbourn is now on the same journey as his sister.
Making waves in Canada
SINCE the recent grand opening of the “Hair Granted Beauty Supply Store” in Toronto, Canada, Bahamian owner Zhorrah Grant said the response she is receiving from Bahamians is amazing.
The daily challenge: what's for dinner?
With 7pm weekly curfews and the food stores closed on weekends, it is harder than ever to figure out that never-ending question of what’s for dinner.
EDITORIAL: Don’t gain short-term and lose long-term
LOOK before you leap. That’s the warning from union chief Obie Ferguson – and it’s wise advice in an economy that is a long way from being on the rise again.
PETER YOUNG: True justice is blind and also deaf to someone’s personal views
ANYONE who had the time and inclination to watch even part of last week’s US Senate confirmation hearings for President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee, Amy Coney Barrett, would surely have been impressed by her performance in response to keen questioning. But they might also have been disturbed by the evidence of deep divisions in the American body politic.
FACE TO FACE: Nate’s keeping kids on the straight and narrow with help from a four-legged friend
When someone gets out of the so-called ‘ghetto’ and makes it in life, they often don’t want to hang out in the place they grew up in. They may go to visit loved ones and friends that still live there. But, the ghetto could be a reminder of pain, struggle, injustice and difficulty and going back there can open old wounds.
Legal action threatened in water corporation row
THE general manager of the Water and Sewerage Corporation said he has instructed attorneys to pursue court action over a scathing letter written by the “disputed” president of the utility provider’s management union.
‘$20m on sidewalks to give jobs for Bahamians’
WORKS Minister Desmond Bannister says sidewalks are needed around New Providence and that an ongoing project to construct them has provided jobs for Bahamians during the difficult COVID-19 crisis.
Pineridge MP donates to constituency schools
REV Frederick McAlpine, FNM MP for Pineridge, presented cheque donations to six schools in his constituency recently.
Students are warned about dangers of joining gangs
ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Solomon Cash recently visited Jack Hayward High School where he spoke to 80 to 90 senior students about the dangers of gangs.
Face-to-face learning the goal in GB, says education chief
ALL public schools are open in the Grand Bahama district and the ultimate goal is the engagement of face-to-face learning at all institutions, said Ministry of Education District Superintendent Ivan Butler.
Doctor: My near-death battle with COVID-19
A 75-YEAR-OLD retired psychiatrist with a “serious comorbidity” has recounted her near death battle with COVID-19.
Concerns raised about increasing cases in Eleuthera
AFTER health officials raised an alarm about an increase of COVID-19 cases in Eleuthera, one island official said some people are coming to the island and not adhering to the 14-day quarantine protocol.
Mining project pledges 100% local ownership
North Andros residents and individual Bahamian investors will own 100 percent of the company that will hold some 5,200 acres targeted for an aggregate mining project, it was revealed yesterday.
Shell power plant deal is 'sad day'
A Chamber of Commerce executive yesterday argued it will be "a sad day" whenever Shell's power plant deal is agreed because it goes against The Bahamas' pledge to fight climate change.
Baker's Bay official: Extend 'silver bullet' of tax exemptions
A senior Baker’s Bay official has urged the Government to extend the "big silver bullet" of Abaco's Special Economic Recovery Zone status and tax breaks beyond year-end 2020 to aid reconstruction.
'Hang in there', union chief tells furloughed employees
A trade union leader yesterday urged frustrated hotel employees and other furloughed workers to "hang in there" and not seek termination packages due to the difficulty many will have finding new jobs.
BTC targets 55% of Nassau, GB for fibre linkage
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company's (BTC) operational head yesterday said more than half the homes in Nassau and Grand Bahama will be passed by its latest network technology come year-end 2021 as it launches a national Internet connectivity drive.
Professional Bahamian basketball players shine in Asia, Europe
IT was an active weekend for Bahamian basketball across pro leagues in Asia and Europe as several players made their season debuts and others had season-high performances.
Eugene Stuart takes pro volleyball career to top league in Romania
EUGENE Stuart is on the move to a new country and a new club in the second season of his pro volleyball career.
'I must live at 100 percent with no regrets'
AFTER cancer, everything becomes a new normal, said Bahamian woman Judy Lundy-Miller.
‘Samaritans’ help exposes health shortfall’
THE addition of a temporary Samaritan’s Purse tent hospital underscores that the government continues to lag behind in its ability to improve health facilities in the country amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Senator Dr Michael Darville.
Minnis told Junkanoo funeral - no rushout: Mourners advised ceremony feared to be 'super spreader' had to follow COVID rules
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis told Junkanoo members not to hold a rushout that is now at the centre of claims that it contributed to the creation of a COVID-19 cluster.
Tiger’s Hero World Challenge cancelled
Another major event on The Bahamas’ sports tourism calendar has been cancelled due to the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
70 new COVID-19 cases, one additional death on Sunday
SEVENTY new cases of COVID-19 were recorded on Sunday along with one additional death.
Anger classes ordered for man who smashed windows
A MAN was ordered to attend anger management classes after he damaged his ex-girlfriend’s father’s vehicle and house windows.
Fraudster is told to pay back stolen money
A 21-year-old woman who defrauded Commonwealth Bank of over $3,000 was placed on two years’ probation and ordered to pay back the stolen money.
Bail denied in assault case
A 23-year-old man who was accused of assaulting his uncle during a domestic dispute earlier this year was denied bail ahead of his trial yesterday.
Man accused of taxi driver killing
A MAN who evaded arrest for two years by fleeing to the United States was arraigned in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday charged with the murder of a taxi driver in 2018.
Leadership of the CDB
I FIRMLY believe that the highly respected and soundly run Caribbean Development Bank is heading into serious leadership trouble. What I’ve heard is very troubling.
Put your vision to reality
ACCORDING to Kristalina Georgieva, IMF managing director, “Today we face a new Bretton Woods ‘moment.’ A pandemic that has already cost more than a million lives. An economic calamity that will make the world economy 4.4 percent smaller this year and strip an estimated $11 trillion of output by next year.”
Monday, October 19
Arthur joins Miami Marlins farm system
ANDRE Arthur became the latest Bahamian prospect to join the Miami Marlins farm system.
Impressive showing for Albury and Believe Prep in Florida
DESPITE losing their first game of the pre-season, Deyton Albury and the Believe Prep Academy basketball team had an impressive showing at the Big House Complex in Tavares, Florida, over the weekend.
BBF needs to secure at least $80,000
After missing out on the opportunity to host the second window of the FIBA AmeriCup 2022 Qualifiers in a bubble here, the Bahamas Basketball Federation will now have to secure at least $80,000 to send the men’s national basketball team off to compete.
EDITORIAL: What are we doing to protect women?
What would you do if you found yourself being stalked?
INSIGHT: We’ll all be winners if we each do what we can in the fight against COVID
This weekend brought us a sight of what could have been us in the continuing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
INSIGHT: Science is the way forward
The Bahamas, like the rest of the world, should realise by now that COVID-19 and its effects are going to be around for some time and as such we should be finding a way to live with it.
Food kits help to fight hunger in Grand Bahama
A total of 2,400 food kits were secured for a major food distribution initiative on Grand Bahama, through a $50,000 donation from the Lyford Cay Club Charitable Trust (LCCCT).
‘If police and RBDF can be promoted, why can’t we?’
AFTER watching other law enforcement officers advance, the Correctional Officers Staff Association has insisted that now is not the time for the government to withhold promotions for deserving officers.
Wells: we’re looking for best fit in reopening to tourism
HEALTH Minister Renward Wells has defended the government’s November 1 target for more relaxations in the tourism sector despite high COVID-19 figures and an overstretched healthcare system.
'We're here to help'
A team of physicians, nurses, and administrative support from Samaritan’s Purse is set to commence clinical services in a field hospital erected on the grounds of Princess Margaret Hospital today.
Erin's stalker ordeal
A POPULAR radio personality says she’s been living in fear for the past three months after several encounters with a stalker who has left her frightening messages on social media and hung around outside her place of work.
New power plant deal 'weeks out'
Shell North America says "a degree of urgency" is required to close the deal for New Providence's new multi-million dollar power plant with an agreement thought to be just "weeks out" from conclusion.
Oil exploration fears for 'eco centric mecca'
An Andros bonefishing lodge's co-owner has voice alarm that that "the eco-centric mecca" of The Bahamas could be irreparably harmed if oil exploration plans go awry.
Reforms 'attack debt excesses'
The deputy prime minister believes upcoming fiscal reforms will "take the mystery out of the public finances" and enable the Government to "attack the excesses" that have built a multi-billion national debt.
Minister: 'Consequences' for missing COVID tests
A Cabinet minister has warned there will be "consequences" for visitors and residents who fail to adhere to the new COVID-19 testing regime, adding: "Why would you not comply?"
How to unlock down
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According to data published by the World Health Organisation, there is a virus going around causing an illness that this year will be responsible for the death of more than six hundred thousand people around the globe.
Gov't expands digital platform roll-out drive
The Government is developing digital platforms to automate the Cabinet Office's functions and to handle the planning process at the Ministry of Works.
Bridging the gender gap critical for cyber security
There are arguably two key problems encountered with cyber security governance - the misrepresentation of cyber security risks at executive and Board levels, and the under-representation of women in the industry. Yet the pressure to secure businesses against cyber-related incidents and, more importantly, cyber breaches is immense.
Over 150 attend Bahamas real estate trade mission
More than 150 realtors from The Bahamas and Florida’s Royal Palm Coast participated in the first joint Florida-Bahamas real estate trade mission held on October 1.
BPL fuel hedge hits 30% savings target
A Cabinet minister says many consumers may not appreciate that Bahamas Power & Light's (BPL) fuel hedging strategy has already produced 30 percent savings on their total energy bill year-over-year.
Developer to build on $80m in pre-existing infrastructure
A Bahamas-based developer is aiming to capitalise on $80m in pre-existing infrastructure investments by starting vertical construction on its high-end Abaco boutique resort before year-end.
Top Abaco resorts: We're ready for tourism's return
Two major Abaco resorts say they are ready for the country's November 1 tourism re-opening after completing post-Hurricane Dorian repairs.
Cruise line holds Bahamas return to December 18
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line has unveiled a further delay to its operational restart by setting December 18 as the date when its Grand Classica vessel will resume voyages to Grand Bahama.
COVID-19 forces two Scotia branch closings
Scotiabank (Bahamas) has been forced to close two Nassau branches within 24 hours after staff members tested positive for COVID-19.
Another victim of drive-by killers
THE sister of a man who was shot and killed at Dumping Ground Corner on Friday night said the family is reeling over her brother’s death.
‘Shift row merits an apology’
BAHAMAS Nurses Union president Amancha Williams said the Public Hospitals Authority should apologise for attempting to implement a new eight-hour night shift system, which breached the terms outlined in their industrial agreement.
42 Haitian migrants deported
THE Department of Immigration deported 42 migrants to Haiti last Friday.
Rename Dundas
Three cheers for the Commissioner of Police for his swift action to prevent a candle of entrepreneurship and innovation from being smothered in a sheet of “tin ferl”.
No clear plan for Abaco
Since the passage of Hurricane Dorian we, the residents of Abaco have been living life in slow motion. Even in the middle of a global pandemic filled with economic uncertainty. Even as we ride out yet another hurricane season with limited resources in place, Abaconians face another real threat. Over the past three months, work at the major hurricane dump sites in Abaco (Spring City and Treasure Cay) has come to a crawl and almost to a complete stop.
Rubbing salt in the wound
Self-employed Bahamians, such as taxi drivers, hair braiders, food vendors, jet ski operators and small business owners have not been hung out to dry in the wake of the COVID-19 economic crisis, due to the Free National Movement administration’s kind gesture in rendering financial assistance via the NIB unemployment assistance programme. According to National Insurance Minister Brensil Rolle, 7,235 self-employed recipients received $15.6 million. Rolle’s revelation that $175m in NIB funding has been dumped into the domestic economy since Hurricane Dorian and COVID-19 underscores the extent of the economic fallout.
Sunday, October 18
Six deaths added to COVID toll
ONE hundred and eighty-six cases of COVID-19 and eight more related deaths were recorded between Friday and Saturday, pushing the country’s coronavirus tally to 5,703.
Woman injured after crashing into tree
A woman was injured after her car crashed into a tree on Western Road on Saturday night.
Saturday, October 17
243 new COVID-19 cases, four deaths reported on Thursday and Friday
The Ministry of Health reported that there was a total of 243 new COVID-19 cases and four additional deaths on Thursday and Friday.
Friday, October 16
Samaritan's Purse sets up tent hospital at PMH
Samaritan's Purse in partnership with Princess Margaret Hospital is setting up a 20-bed tent hospital at PMH to assist in management of COVID-19 cases.
'Difficult decisions will have to be made' if healthcare system continues operating beyond capacity
HEALTH officials admitted Friday that tough decisions will have to be made concerning the patients that will be given priority care if the country’s healthcare system continues to operate beyond its current capacity amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
PHA decides against implementing eight-hour night shift for nurses
THE Public Hospitals Authority has decided not to implement a new eight-hour night shift system, which was vehemently opposed by the Bahamas Nurses Union this week.
30 children return to Grand Bahama Children's Home
THIRTY of the 43 children from Grand Bahama Children’s Home who were relocated to New Providence a year ago after Hurricane Dorian, returned to Freeport on Friday morning.
Former fugitive faces murder charge
A FORMER fugitive alleged to have committed murder was arraigned in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Fine for man found with marijuana
A 23-year-old man who was found with over a pound of marijuana was fined $1,300 on Friday.
Woman pleads guilty to fraud charges
A 26-year-old woman was charged with fraud in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Teenager fined for not wearing mask
A TEENAGER was fined $150 on Friday after police found him on a local beach without a face mask late last month.
Man shot by police after chase
A man is in hospital after being shot by police following a chase early on Friday.
DIANE PHILLIPS: Will these 36,000 voices be heard in the argument about oil?
WE are so busy glaring at COVID-19 we are about to be blindsided by something that could take a greater toll on The Bahamas for decades to come – a seemingly imminent plan to drill for oil.
A COMIC'S VIEW: This sporting life . . . ain’t all it seems
LAST weekend I spent the entire lockdown holiday watching as much sports as I possibly could.
13 Cubans held
A total of 13 Cubans were transported to the capital aboard Defence Force patrol craft HMBS Leon Livingstone Smith after being apprehended by a United States Coast Guard cutter in the southwest Bahamas.
On a wing and a prayer
THE Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is sending chaplains to Nassau to help with the Samaritan’s Purse emergency field hospital that is being set up to treat COVID-19 patients.
Bahamians overseas seeking financial help
THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Bahamians are increasingly approaching Bahamas embassies and consulates overseas requesting financial assistance for COVID-19 testing, quarantine, accommodation and airline ticket changes.
Ministry: Some staff may work remotely
DIRECTOR of Education Marcellus Taylor said the Ministry of Education has a protocol in place to allow some staff to work remotely where possible in view of COVID-19 concerns, but stressed this is not feasible for every position.
Road Traffic closed after COVID case
THE Road Traffic Department’s national stadium location will be closed today and Monday to allow for cleaning and sanitising after exposure to a COVID-19 case.
Davis: How can WSC disconnect when govt is the biggest debtor?
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis has questioned how officials could consider disconnecting delinquent Water and Sewerage accounts when the government is the corporation’s largest debtor.
Atlantis on the 'bubble' for late 2020 re-open
Atlantis is targeting a phased re-opening before year-end 2020 by creating a COVID-19 free "bubble" for guests via the 'Vacation in Place' model, it was revealed yesterday.
Bran: 'No justification' for curb-side retailing
The DNA's former leader yesterday argued there was "no justification at all" for restricting merchants to curb-side operations - a move expected to cause a 15-20 percent sales fall at his family's pharmacy.
Minister: Water Corp cut-offs 'won't happen'
A Cabinet minister yesterday pledged that the Water & Sewerage Corporation will not be allowed to restart delinquent residential customer disconnections, saying: "That ain't going to happen."
BPL's Abaco customer base just 50% of pre-Dorian size
Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) is receiving 75 reconnection applications per week from residents and businesses seeking to rejoin an Abaco customer base that is just 50 percent of its pre-Dorian size.
IAN FERGUSON: Corporate leaders must embrace COVID reality
Leading in times of crisis requires managers to make critical decisions under intense pressure and, sometimes, impending danger. The relevant adage reminds us that the game of business is played in the jungle and not on the playground; dangers are lurking everywhere. The goal of crisis leadership is to prevent a crisis from becoming an all-out disaster.
Go-ahead for 82% of Abaco small firm loans
Some 82 percent of $4.5m in loan and grant applications from Abaco entrepreneurs is in the pipeline for distribution, the Small Business Development Centre's (SBDC) executive director said yesterday.
Abaco's power, airport restoration costs $35m
The Disaster Reconstruction Authority's (DRA) deputy chairman yesterday said some $35m has been invested to-date in restoring Abaco's electricity supply and international airport post-Dorian.
Virtual classes now all online
EDUCATION Minister Jeffrey Lloyd says the ministry’s Learning Management System (LMS) is now fully operational after thousands of public school students experienced problems trying to log on this week.
‘Act today to tackle domestic violence’
AS the nation grapples with fallout from COVID-19, another social ill – domestic violence – is said to be mushrooming out of control.
As money is cut, NIB ‘doing best we can’
Public Service and National Insurance Board Minister Brensil Rolle defended a reduction in unemployment benefits to $100 a week yesterday, insisting “We’re doing the best we can.”
Winning starts for Portugal pair
Both Bahamian pro basketball players in Portugal’s Liga Portuguesa de Basquetebol (LPB) got off to winning starts in their 2020 regular season debuts.
Tie a yellow ribbon for children’s return
THE 30 children of the Grand Bahama Children’s Home will be arriving in Grand Bahama from New Providence on Friday morning.
Man must pay up for smashing window of woman who said no
A 27-year-old man who threw a rock into a woman’s window when she refused to have sex with him was yesterday ordered to compensate her for her damaged property.
$45,000 fine for marijuana discovery
A 47-year-old man was fined $45,000 when he was found with 46 pounds of marijuana last week.
Held in custody for bail breach
A TEENAGER who violated the conditions of his bail was yesterday remanded into custody for one month.
Say no to oil
Bahamas Petroleum Company is getting ready to launch into the dangerous process of drilling for oil in our seabed, based on an expired Environmental Impact Assessment that is full of inaccuracies and outdated information.
Fight for the environment
THE Bahamas is a beautiful country with clean, pristine waters and white sandy beaches. Tourists comes from all over the world to see for themselves if one can swim in waters that are crystal clear.
The pop-up food market
The pop-up market Tin Ferl was created by a group of young Bahamian entrepreneurs who saw the need for the development of a pop up space where local food vendors and artisans can access a space to sell their products. During the interview, chef Jamal Petty a vendor at this location questioned whether or not the food park was shut down on Thursday, October 9, because it was in breach of the COVID-19 regulations as was stated by the Commissioner of the Police, or was it the result of “special interests” whose business interests may be adversely impacted by the presence and growing popularity of this group.
Rodgers stays put to launch new gym
WITH his relocation to Tampa, Florida, thwarted because of the coronavirus pandemic, Strikers Boxing Club’s coach Ronn Rodgers has decided to set up a new local boxing gym.
Ruling could extend eligibility for student athletes
The NCAA’s Division I Council made a major announcement that could extend the eligibility of several Bahamian student-athletes that compete in the organisation’s winter sports.
Thursday, October 15
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 15th October: Freeport
STARTS: 10/15/2020 10:55 PM EDT EXPIRES: 10/16/2020 3:00 AM EDT
EDITORIAL: No easy answer over cutting off water
WHERE BPL has gone before, now the Water and Sewerage Corporation is seeking to follow – in cutting off customers whose bills remain unpaid.
STATESIDE: How long will it take for the US to recover the ground it’s lost in the eyes of the world?
“I feel sorry for Americans,” a lawmaker in Myanmar told The New York Times recently. From Berlin, another Times reporter wrote that events in the US were “shaking fundamental assumptions in Europe about American exceptionalism”.
FRONT PORCH: Trump is not an American anomaly
Around 1997, about 23 years ago during a trip to New York City for a social justice conference, this columnist first met a fellow participant who lived in the city.
Three deaths, 194 new cases on Wednesday
THE Ministry of Health said there were 194 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed yesterday and three confirmed deaths from the virus.
Abaco residents seek more relaxation of restrictions
DAYS after Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis eased some COVID-19 restrictions for Abaco, North and Central Abaco administrator Terrece Bootle-Laing said while most residents welcome the move, some want additional measures to be relaxed.
'Critical' moment in fight
THE Bahamas has not yet turned the corner in its fight against COVID-19, a senior physician yesterday insisted, adding that at this “critical” juncture the nation’s plan needs reworking.
PLP calls for more testing and tracing
THE Progressive Liberal Party wants the government to expand its contact tracing team, provide free COVID-19 testing and create more testing centres, insisting the measures are necessary in order to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus amid the country’s second wave.
MP teams up with Graycliff to give students a place to learn
GRAYCLIFF and Bain and Grants Town MP Travis Robinson are facilitating students’ virtual learning at a makeshift school at the popular restaurant.
‘National development plan would have softened pain of COVID-19’
A NATIONAL development plan would have softened the blow of COVID-19, contended a noted banker yesterday, adding a recent regional report applies common sense logic to the way forward.
Three deaths, 194 new cases
THE Ministry of Health said there were 194 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed yesterday and three confirmed deaths from the virus.
Water Corp warns on disconnection restart
The Water & Sewerage Corporation's executive chairman will today write to Cabinet ministers asking to restart delinquent customer disconnections as the utility grapples with "dire financial straits".
Kelly's hopes 13-month recovery is 'inspiration'
A 55-year "cornerstone" of Grand Bahama's retail community is hoping the completion of its 13-month Hurricane Dorian recovery will serve as "inspiration" for other firms to undertake a similar journey.
Central Bank 'stretch' on borrower leniency
The Central Bank was yesterday said to have given commercial banks "a stretch" by urging them to be lenient with borrowers who show signs they may be able to resume repayments in 2021.
Family Island hotels in re-open 'wait and see'
Family island resorts yesterday said they remain in “watch and see” mode over the sector's scheduled November 1 re-opening due to ongoing COVID-19 uncertainties at home and abroad.
Sandals delay is 'devastating' blow to Exuma's hope
Sandals' move to delay re-opening its Emerald Bay Resort until February 1 has dealt Exuma residents a "devastating" psychological blow, the island's Chamber of Commerce chief warned yesterday.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Becoming animated on moving pictures
One of the most common questions I am asked is: “I want to get into animation; where do I start?” Well, it is easier to get into animation today than ever before as software is cheaper (or even free), and most modern computers can handle the simpler animation tasks (mostly 2D). The catch is that although anyone can start animating immediately, the art itself still takes time to master. The good news is you do not need to be a Disney-grade animator to create really cool animations. You can start small and simple, and slowly develop your skills and unique style.
Work/study visa to launch October 22
The Bahamas will launch its much-touted work/study visa on October 22 to ensure it is available in time for the November 1 tourism re-opening, it was revealed yesterday.
Money providers given digital B$ assessments
Numerous local money transmission and digital payments providers have been assessed as authorised financial institutions (AFIs) to handle digital Bahamian dollar transactions, it was revealed yesterday.
Bahamas gains 'Safe Travels' designation
The Bahamas has been recognised as a Safe Travels destination by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) after meeting its enhanced COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
Digital B$ to use three-tier system
Businesses wanting to use the Bahamian digital currency must undergo "the more stringent" Know Your Customer (KYC) due diligence that is required for traditional accounts, it was revealed yesterday.
Business support network touts over 1,000 members
A newly-formed business support network says it has amassed 1,365 members in just over nine months since its 'soft' launch in January 2020.
Day two and pupils still can’t log on to lessons
THE Ministry of Education’s public school virtual learning platform remained down for the second day yesterday, according to the Bahamas Union of Teachers.
‘Curbside only is killing us’
A MANAGER of a local clothing store said curbside restrictions are “killing” the retail sector.
Man accused of threatening to kill his mother denied bail
AN Eleuthera man who was accused of threatening to kill his mother and harm two other people was yesterday denied bail ahead of his trial.
Reckless comments by Davis
In a story reported in a local daily last week the Hon Philip Davis, PLP Leader, is quoted as saying, “I think it’s an act of punishment” following Prime Minister Hubert Minnis’ address in the House of Assembly where he, among other things, announced new COVID-19 restrictions in order to attempt to arrest the increasing number of infections, particularly in New Providence and Abaco.
Man charged over marijuana
A 24-year-old man was charged with marijuana possession in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Group accused of failing to keep social distance are discharged
A MAGISTRATE yesterday discharged a group of men who were accused of violating the emergency orders by failing to practice social distancing.
Man charged with attempted murder
A 27-year-old man was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with attempted murder.
Several accused over drugs after police operation in Grand Bahama
SEVERAL people were arrested for possession of dangerous drugs following a police operation in three drug hotspots on Grand Bahama.
Rules make it too hard to plan visit
Our family are regular visitors to The Bahamas and have enjoyed coming for several weeks during our cold winter. We always enjoy the warm sunny days and the friendly Bahamians who assist us. Our travel agent said that your country is a prime destination and the booking process was completed quickly. It is an easy motor trip to Toronto airport where we take the regular Air Canada service.
Breaking out
Prince Strachan continues his breakout junior season on the gridiron for John Carroll High School Rams.
McMinns lands coaching role
Eugene McMinns will have the opportunity to continue his football car on the sidelines after he joined the coaching staff of a Canadian collegiate programme.
Jonquel leads the way for Russian Foxes
Jonquel Jones continues to lead UMMC Ekaterinburg Foxes in the Russian Championship Premier League.
NAUGHTY’S NFL PICKS WEEK 5
Every so often there’s a week that just goes absolutely haywire, last week was exactly that kind of week for me, the Cowboys won but we lost our QB Dak Prescott for the year and my NFL Picks took a hit also leaving me a robust 7-7 for the week stuck at .500.
Financial providers unveil new identity
Bahamian insurance and pension administration providers have unveiled their consolidation under the unified CG Atlantic brand.
Water supplier teams up over bill payment
The New Providence Water Development Company (NPWDCo) has teamed with MobileAssist to provide customers with a convenient and secure bill payment platform via their mobile devices.
Wednesday, October 14
28 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, one additional death
THE Ministry of Health said 28 additional cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on Tuesday while another person died from the disease.
ALICIA WALLACE: What really makes a national hero?
Over the past few days, there has been heated discussion about the five people recognised as national heroes. There are people who believe one or more of those people to be undeserving of the designation and there are people who have others in mind who have done more or better. Considering the recommendations and criticism, we do not have a solid definition of a national hero.
Good Samaritans to bring tent facility to expand patient capacity
THE Samaritan’s Purse organisation - which offered assistance in Abaco and Grand Bahama in the wake of Hurricane Dorian - has partnered with the government to provide a 28-bed COVID-19 isolation and treatment unit.
D’Aguilar - PLP is all criticism, but no plan
TOURISM Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar yesterday defended the government’s decision to restart the tourism industry next month against criticisms from the opposition party, saying he has yet to hear a plan from the PLP.
Rising deaths and younger patients - a bleak picture of COVID-19
THE Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation has raised alarm about the country’s COVID-19 crisis, citing an eight-fold rise in deaths since July and a shift towards younger people catching and dying from the disease.
Turnquest criticises ‘misleading’ reports on loans
FINANCE Minister Peter Turnquest yesterday criticised reports accusing the government of acquiring loans from banks caught up in controversy, insisting such claims are “very incorrect” and “misleading”.
Wells: we’re not trying to overwork healthcare staff
HEALTH Minister Renward Wells said the Public Hospitals Authority’s controversial shift system is designed to get the maximum amount of work from healthcare workers without overworking them.
Decision awaited on Junkanoo during pandemic
YOUTH, Sports and Culture Minister Lanisha Rolle said officials are awaiting Cabinet’s decision on how Junkanoo can still be celebrated this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Marinas struck by weekend 'havoc'
The Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) president yesterday warned this nation cannot afford a repeat of the weekend "havoc" that saw boaters "harassed" and denied entry by government agencies.
IMF slashes Bahamas prospects for rebound
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) yesterday dampened The Bahamas' prospects of a swift rebound from COVID-19 by slashing this nation's projected 2021 economic growth to 4.6 per cent.
Banker: Gov't could have got 'better than 8%'
A prominent Bahamian banker yesterday argued that the Government could have obtained an interest rate "lower than 8 percent" on its $600m bond offering had it unveiled a debt management strategy.
Top BFSB executive 'highly commended'
The Bahamas Financial Services Board's (BFSB) chief executive was presented with the Highly Commended Award in UK-based International Investment's prestigious Woman of The Year category.
Tourism training in online switch
The Ministry of Tourism yesterday said it has transitioned its main training initiative, the BahamaHost programme, to a digital platform in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gov't to tap local investors for remaining $400m funds
The deputy prime minister yesterday said the Government will largely tap the domestic capital markets for the remaining $400m debt financing it requires for the 2020-2021 fiscal year.
Gov't not seeking staff slashes at Bahamasair
The Government has not looked at slashing Bahamasair's 600-strong staff despite the airline's increasing reliance on taxpayers to cover its $3.5m monthly payroll, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.
Minister 'begs for patience' over tourism's re-opening
A Cabinet minister yesterday "begged for patience" from tourism industry stakeholders and workers as he warned that the sector's COVID-19 recovery will be extremely slow.
Friday a 'hot mess' for funeral industry
The Bahamas Funeral Directors Association's (BFDA) president yesterday branded last Friday a "hot mess" after the latest COVID-19 restrictions forced families to rush forward their loved one's burial.
Dundas pop-up market back after licence woe
The TinFerl Pop-up market is “back now” and planning to re-open tomorrow after vendors began working to obtain the necessary licences that will allow them to operate from the Dundas.
‘Lockdowns work - but need to find balance’
HEALTH Minister Renward Wells yesterday defended the government’s use of lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic saying the tough measures have been proven to work.
COVID? I could give a sermon
BISHOP Simeon Hall has made a plea from his hospital bed for Bahamians to take COVID-19 seriously after he contracted the disease.
SYSTEM ERROR: Virtual learning fiasco as pupils are unable to log into online classes
AFTER weeks of preparation by the Ministry of Education, the virtual learning system crashed on day one for thousands of public education students who tried to log on.
Davis pays tribute as ex-minister dies, 77
FORMER Cabinet minister Darrell Rolle died at his home yesterday at 77 years of age.
BROADCASTING HQ SHUTS AGAIN FOR CLEANING
THE Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas’ headquarters at Harcourt “Rusty” Bethel Drive was closed yesterday for cleaning and sanitisation after another staff member tested positive for COVID-19.
PARK GETS A FRESH LOOK
ALTHOUGH New Providence parks and playgrounds are not open due to the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the country’s most historical parks in the Over-the-Hill area has recently been remodeled by the Bahamas Striping Group of Companies.
That’s the way the cookie crumbles as teen gets probation over marijuana
A TEENAGER who was found with marijuana cookies and batter was yesterday placed on a year’s probation and ordered to attend drug counselling classes.
Homeless man discharged after violating curfew
A magistrate yesterday discharged a man for violating the curfew after he explained that he was homeless.
Dominicans detained after vessel sinks
THREE Dominicans were detained by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force in Inagua after they were rescued by a United States Coast Guard helicopter stationed in Matthew Town, after their vessel is reported to have sunk.
Could govt pick up the baton on golden land gift?
AS an incentive of winning the gold medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, England, the Golden Knights were presented with a parcel of land by the Bahamas government, just as the Golden Girls did following their triumph at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia.
Don’t flout rules and get muscled out by COVID
BAHAMAS Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation president Joel Stubbs said while it’s been a difficult ordeal for gym operators to be closed to the public, he can understand the concerns of health officials because of the lack of protocol procedures that the patrons exhibit.
Let's do it again
AFTER helping his team-mates get on top of the podium in 2012 in London, England, quarter-miler Ramon Miller is hoping to come back for an encore as the men’s 4 x 400 metre relay prepares for another title or medal at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan next July.
Tuesday, October 13
I'm just looking for my mom
ALL NICOLE Lightbourne knows about her biological mother is her name “Laurie Brennen”, she gave birth to her in 1984 at the Princess Margaret Hospital and put her up for adoption three years later.
EDITORIAL: Is this really the time for a battle with nurses?
IT seems like some disputes never go far away – even in a pandemic.
WORLD VIEW: Dodging the China question
OF all the questions that both Kamala Harris and Mike Pence dodged during the US Vice Presidential debate on October 7, the most revealing concerned China.
PETER YOUNG: Surely it’s time for common sense - targetted solutions not catch-all policies which hurt everyone
HAVING written only two weeks ago about coronavirus, I hesitate to return to the subject. But it is top of the news agenda once more as the situation has changed dramatically with a total curfew over the holiday weekend in New Providence and Abaco followed by other new restrictions this week. I also hasten to draw attention to a potentially significant development in the shape of the Great Barrington Declaration published last week in the US which addresses the world’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
FACE TO FACE: Gimel’s dream is to help us all tap in to the sustainable richness which surrounds us
THE Bahamas has tons of reasons to focus on its agriculture and fisheries industries at a time like this and move this country towards food security. The Bahamas Government has a National Food and Nutrition Security Policy and Agenda for Action (2017-2022) prepared by the Ministries of Health and Agriculture & Marine Resources with technical support from the Food & Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
Showing a message of love
VOLUNTEERS at the Bahamas Feeding Network have been getting shirty with COVID-19.
COVID limits show need for Freeport cancer centre
THE inability of cancer patients to receive oncology care during the COVID-19 pandemic due to travel restrictions and the lockdown has highlighted the urgent need again for an oncology centre in Freeport.
Pointe’s Chinese workers fly home
TWO hundred and seventy-eight Chinese nationals, including more than 100 former workers of The Pointe, travelled to China on Friday as the West Bay Street development nears completion, according to Chinese counsellor Haigang Yin.
Ministers clear of COVID-19
ALL government ministers who were directly exposed to Environment Minister Romauld Ferreira on September 29 have tested negative for COVID-19.
Dialysis patient found dead in car
A PATIENT was found dead in his car in a parking lot at Princess Margaret Hospital on Friday.
Compass Point owner ‘torn’ over 2020 close
COMPASS Point’s owner has warned staff he is torn over whether to close the resort “permanently” by year-end 2020 due to his ongoing stand-off with the government and COVID-19’s fall-out.
Lockdowns ‘behind us’ for November 1
A CABINET minister has voiced optimism that New Providence will have “put these lockdowns behind us” in time for tourism’s planned return on November 1 with the 14-day quarantine elimination.
Bahamas pays high price over $600m offering
THE Bahamas and its taxpayers have paid a higher price “than we would like” in raising $600m from overseas investors to fill the government’s financial holes, the deputy prime minister has conceded.
‘Material impact’: COVID-19 curbs delay cruise port
NASSAU Cruise Port’s top executive is urging the government to establish COVID-19 policies for essential personnel as existing restrictions create “a material impact” on its $250m redevelopment project.
The American Presidential election and the financial markets
ActivTrades
The northern hemisphere summer is over, but the political temperature is still rising. We are just 3 weeks away from the American Presidential election of November 3, when US voters will decide who’s to govern the country over the following 4 years, with ballots also being cast for Senate and Congress representatives.
Lockdown easing is 'great relief' on Abaco
Abaco's Chamber of Commerce president hailed yesterday's further easing of lockdown restrictions as "a great relief" in the island's battle to recover from the twin ravages of Dorian and COVID-19.
Fishermen confirm that crawfish prices 'holding'
Crawfish prices have held with no major depression, a Cabinet minister has said, confounding the expectations of fishermen who believed COVID-19 would produce a major margin decline.
Activists fear 'meaningless' environmental bond security
Activists have warned that the watering down of performance bond obligations imposed on developers in new Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations could render such security "meaningless".
Retail Federation chief: Curb side sales 'not viable' for all
The Bahamas Federation of Retailers (BFR) president says the sector is not to blame for the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, while warning that curb-side sales are "not a viable" option for many firms.
Virtual plan for Abaco business conference
The Abaco Business Outlook (ABO) conference will take place virtually from October 15-16 under the theme, A new era: Resilience in the face of vulnerability.
Taxi chief: 'Ready or not' tourism needs to re-open
The Bahamas Taxi Cab Union's president says The Bahamas must re-open its tourism sector "ready or not" on November 1 even though COVID-19 will remain well into 2021.
Big chance for Bahamas bodybuilders
ALTHOUGH local sporting activities are on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Bahamas Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation is still looking forward to preparing a 14-member team to compete in the Central American and Caribbean Bodybuilding Fitness Championships.
Belief runs high as team undefeated
DEYTON Albury continues to guide his Believe Prep Basketball team to an undefeated preseason.
Higgs high not enough in loss
DESPITE turning in a game-high performance, Bahamian female professional basketball player Lashann Higgs and the Embutidos Pajariel Bembibre PDM suffered another loss in the Liga Femenina Endesa, the top women’s basketball league in Spain.
Sands: We need to reset our strategy
AFTER New Providence and Abaco spent the weekend in lockdown, former Minister of Health Dr Duane Sands said the country needs a national reset to deal with the rising COVID-19 cases which are “at least twice the amount” reported.
Nurses anger over recruits’ new rota
THE Bahamas Nurses Union could be gearing up for another fight with the Public Hospitals Authority after more than 100 nurses were allegedly put on a shift system that the union has consistently opposed, according to BNU president Amancha Williams.
Davis: Govt not living in the real world
AFTER a meeting with Pan American Health Organisation officials yesterday, Progressive Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis accused the Minnis administration of not doing enough to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Handful of arrests - but eight hurt in Exuma boat accident
POLICE reported only a handful of arrests over the holiday weekend when both the capital and Abaco were in lockdown to help stem the rise in COVID-19 cases.
It’s a French renaissance for players
Bahamian basketball players at various levels in France continue to experience early success with their teams.
Japan trio all in action - but with mixed results
The trio of Bahamian players in the Japanese B-League were all in action over the weekend with mixed results for their respective teams.
JOHNSON QUALIFIES FOR CHESS FINAL
The Bahamas made its first appearance as the newest member of the International School Sports Federation at the World Schools Championships’ Online Chess Tournament and Daijah Johnson continues to make history.
The little changes that can make a big difference
IT’S the little things that can make a difference.
I suffered abuse, held my daughter as she died - let’s end this vicious cycle
Levita Thurston knows more than most the pain of domestic abuse.
Farewell, Amanda - as she steps down from NAGB role
FOR ten years, Amanda Coulson has led the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas - meaning the announcement of her departure as executive director marks the end of an era.
Begin with the end in mind
Today’s date is 10/10/2020 – there must be some significance in those numbers. I had several topics already prepared to write several Letters to the Editor this weekend, but was drawn to a facebook post instead to start the ball rolling.
All hail our heroes
On National Heroes Day, 2020, as well as congratulating those receiving national awards, I salute the thousands of Bahamian COVID-19 front line workers, who continue to give selflessly, including those who have lost their lives because of COVID-19. Their sacrifices can give us pause to rediscover what it means to advance the common good.
Help our girls
I fully understand that every child has the right to education, yet there are many barriers to learning, particularly for girls who are the most vulnerable. Worldwide, 262 million children and youth, of whom 130 million are girls, are denied education. This is due to gender discrimination, disability, conflict, natural disaster and a lack of government spending.
Monday, October 12
COVID-19 figures pass 5,000 over the weekend
OFFICIAL COVID-19 figures surged to 5,163 over the holiday weekend, with New Providence leading the way with some 3,937 cases.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 13th October: Freeport
STARTS: 10/13/2020 12:00 AM EDT EXPIRES: 10/13/2020 2:00 AM EDT
Abaco mother dies a month after car crash
AN Abaco mother who was injured in a car accident on that island last month has died, according to relatives.
A COMIC'S VIEW: Lockdown baby - but with nothing in our cupboards
BY Wednesday past, having listened to the Prime Minister’s speech in the House of Assembly, Bahamians in New Providence and Abaco were singing that Solo tune made famous by talk show host Rodney Moncur: “Lockdown baby, lockdown baby.”
Sunday, October 11
55 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, one additional death
The Ministry of Health reported on Sunday that there were 55 new cases of COVID-19 and one additional death.
Eight injured in Exuma boating accident
Eight people were injured in a boating accident off Exuma on Saturday night.
Saturday, October 10
68 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday
The Ministry of Health reported on Saturday that there were 68 new cases of COVID-19 and 91 additional recovered cases.
91 new COVID-19 cases, death toll rises to 106 on Friday
The Ministry of Health reported that there were 91 new cases of COVID-19 and three confirmed deaths on Friday.
Friday, October 9
Mixed reviews for new lockdown measures
BAHAMIANS preparing for the weekend lockdown in New Providence had mixed reviews about the tough measures on Friday.
Man pleads not guilty to extortion
A 51-year-old man was charged with extortion by a public officer on Friday.
PAHO, International Organisation for Migration sign memorandum of understanding
THE Pan American Health Organisation and the International Organisation for Migration signed a memorandum of understanding on Friday to strengthen cooperation on health and migration in the Americas.
Rotary donates oxygen concentrators to Rand Memorial Hospital
THE Rotary Club of Freeport presented nine oxygen concentrators to the Rand Memorial Hospital
Pintard plans discussions on industrial hemp
AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister Michael Pintard said on Thursday he plans to discuss the economic potential of industrial hemp with Cabinet ministers while the issue of legal marijuana is still being deliberated.
Roots Junkanoo Group hosting virtual health seminar
AS residents of New Providence and Abaco head into a 24-hour weekend curfew, Roots Junkanoo group will host a free virtual health seminar on Friday at 8pm aimed at uplifting Bahamians during these turbulent times.
EDITORIAL: It’s not snitching, it’s saving lives
YOU have a weapon against COVID-19.
Police hand out supplies to help
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle and a team of officers gave out school supplies and face masks to Hospital Lane residents in the Bain Town community yesterday.
COVID-19 blamed for lack of police complaints progress
THE Police Complaints Inspectorate has been critically disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and has not completed its prioritised tasks, according to chairman Tanya McCartney.
Taskforce to assess seabed damage from cruise ships
A SPECIAL task force has been established to fully investigate the damage of seabed and marine life allegedly caused by cruise ships while sheltering in waters near Berry Islands, officials confirmed yesterday.
Entrepreneur thriving in the pandemic
Grand Bahamian Mychal Connolly is an awarding winning entrepreneur in the US who has launched several successful businesses by “thinking outside the box”.
ZNS closes its doors again as engineer tests positive
AN engineer at the Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas has tested positive for COVID-19, causing the BCB to once again close its doors to the public for cleaning.
American Airlines back to the Bahamas
AMERICAN Airlines yesterday resumed service between Miami International Airport and six destinations in the region, including Eleuthera, Freeport and George Town, Exuma.
Cemetery road is reopened
AFTER calling for the reopening of Eastern Cemetery Lane for over ten years, one resident can now breathe a sigh of relief.
Kelly's rejects curb-side; dealers eye 40% fall-off
Kelly's House & Home is closing "until further notice" from 6pm this evening rather than offer curb-side services that auto dealers predict will be up to 40 percent down on their normal in-store sales.
Gov't 'lacked interest' in early COVID test offer
A former Cabinet minister last night confirmed the Government showed "no interest" in a proposal made "months ago" to significantly ramp-up COVID-19 testing during the pandemic's early stages.
Construction prevents 'alarming' disorder rise
A former Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) president yesterday said construction is preventing "an alarming number of things happening" due to its employment of unskilled young men.
Pharmacies will be COVID 'hot spots', Gov't now warned
Pharmacists yesterday warned the Government that forcing them to offer curb-side services only could transform patient queues into "COVID-19 hot spots".
NHI's secondary care expansion 'not feasible'
Expanding the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme to cover secondary care for select conditions "is not feasible at this time" due to COVID-19's fall-out, its governing body has confirmed.
Pintard: We will take action to deal with shanty towns
AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister Michael Pintard yesterday vowed to crack down on all unregulated structures on government land in North Andros, insisting officials are “ready” to take action against residents who are still living in illegal structures despite receiving eviction notices.
$7,000 theft conviction is quashed
THE Court of Appeal recently quashed the conviction of a man who was accused of stealing over $7,000 from his employer.
Anger management classes for threats to kill
A 25-year-old woman who threatened to kill another woman while under the influence of alcohol was ordered to attend anger management classes.
PARTY’S OVER: Police blame youngsters for problems caused at illegal lockdown events
POLICE Commissioner Paul Rolle said his officers will be out in full force to enforce new COVID-19 restrictions, as he revealed that officers have faced challenges recently with young people hosting parties.
‘Sorry - $20 vouchers were a mistake’
NATIONAL Food Distribution Task Force chairperson Susan Larson said miscommunication caused 1,500 food assistance recipients in parts of New Providence to get under-valued vouchers this week.
‘Why need guns at Atlantis protest?’
OPPOSITION Senator Fred Mitchell yesterday questioned why police blocked protestors from walking over the Sidney Poitier Bridge on Wednesday and decried officers being armed with “assault weapons” at a “peaceful” demonstration.
Family questions sister’s ‘drowning’
A SISTER of a woman whose body was found washed ashore on a beach in Eleuthera last month is questioning police who say they did not find any signs of foul play and that her sibling had drowned.
Haitian jailed for six months for hammer attack
A HAITIAN who attacked a man with a hammer during a dispute over a cell phone was sentenced to six months in prison yesterday.
Rutherford ready, set...
AFTER graduating from Providence Academy as a two-sport star in track and field and basketball, Peter ‘JP’ Rutherford Jr, pictured, is now making his transition at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas where his concentration will be solely on track as a sprinter.
Chisholm can’t stop Marlins exit
Jazz Chisholm made his Major League Baseball postseason debut in what turned out to be the final game of the season for his Miami Marlins as they were eliminated from the playoffs.
Tributes are paid to coach McPhee
GEORGE McPhee, a former veteran player, who went on to coach a number of the rising young players in the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association, passed away at his home on Wednesday morning two days before his 69th birthday today.
THE PRESS BOX: All quiet about the Cowboys
Mum’s the word on my Cowboys, we are in a bad state right now. In fact if the Cowboys were a horse they would have to be put down humanely, to put their fans out of their suffering. Now back to mum’s the word!
Hard questions for a COVID recovery
Once the COVID-19 emergency has passed, and your business can safely open without interruptions, you are considered to be in the recovery phase. By all accounts this could take anywhere from 12 months to four years to complete. For a country such as The Bahamas, which relies so heavily on travel, tourism and hospitality, the road ahead is certainly going to be a challenging one.
Exempt Abaco cays from COVID curbs, private sector urges
Abaco's Chamber of Commerce has urged the Prime Minister to exempt some of the island's major cays from the new restrictions due to the presence of tourists and minimal number of COVID-19 cases.
Gas station restrictions 'final nail in the coffin'
A gas station operator yesterday branded the reinstated COVID-19 ban on in-store customers and reduced hours as the “final nail in the coffin".
American resumes flying to three Bahamas destinations
American Airlines yesterday restarted flights from its Miami hub to three Bahamian destinations, and plans to resume service to Nassau and Marsh Harbour before month's end despite their lockdowns.
'Landmark' Bills set to overhaul Gov't finances
The Government yesterday launched consultation on two "landmark" Bills that are intended to transform how The Bahamas' public finances and national debt are governed and managed.
Thursday, October 8
151 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Thursday that there were 151 new COVID-19 cases and 39 recovered cases.
EDITORIAL: Paying now for missed opportunities earlier
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has made his move – and once again we prepare for a diet of curfews and lockdowns.
STATESIDE: Even for Trump this is all starting to look completely ridiculous
No one in Washington has ever witnessed anything like what is happening with and to Donald Trump these days. The US President, long suspected of sociopathic behaviour and tendencies by mental health professionals, seems to be lurching out of control in an increasingly desperate attempt to cling to office.
FRONT PORCH: The tragicomedy and farce of Trump’s America
The denouement of Donald Trump’s shambolic and dangerous presidency intensified with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting calamitous economic fallout, twin crises managed more adroitly and seriously by the Chinese rather than the American Government.
For some of us, this is going to be game over
ONE local gym owner says he doubts his business will recover after Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis announced in Parliament that gyms will have to once again have to close their doors due to new COVID-19 restrictions.
Show me the money
SCORES of Atlantis employees and members of an activist group chanted “Minnis got to go” as they protested near Parliament Square and marched for workers to receive their severance pay from the resort.
'You can't turn tourism on and off like the tap'
A major hotelier yesterday voiced concern over the "mixed message" sent by the latest COVID-19 restrictions for November 1's re-opening, arguing: "You can't turn tourism on and off like a tap."
Gov't gives 'notice' of main bond issue
The deputy prime minister yesterday said the Government has alerted the international capital markets that it is preparing to market and issue its foreign currency bond offering.
Retailers fear 40-60% curb-side sales drop
Non-food retailers will likely see a 40-60 percent sales drop-off compared to in-store activity, Tribune Business was told yesterday, after the Prime Minister ordered the sector back to curb-side offerings.
Super Value eyes 6am start to beat lost COVID hours
Super Value's principal says he plans to open the supermarket chain at 6am from today in a bid to reclaim some of the shopping hours lost to the new COVID-19 restrictions.
Abaco seeks Dorian lockdown exemption
Abaco's Chamber of Commerce president yesterday said he will seek exemptions from the newly-unveiled COVID-19 weekend lockdown to ensure Hurricane Dorian reconstruction continues unimpeded.
Davis: all we’re doing is pressing the pause button
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday the government’s planned holiday and weekend lockdown is not the answer to the country’s COVID-19 crisis.
Rupert Roberts: it’s crazy now and will be ‘til Friday night
SUPER Value owner Rupert Roberts says while the new COVID-19 restrictions will affect sales, store executives will not “second guess” the recommendations made by health officials to curb the spread of the disease.
Lockdown ‘devastating’ for Abaco
ABACO residents yesterday blasted the government’s decision to reimpose a weekend lockdown for the island due to high COVID-19 cases there, saying the new restrictions will be “devastating” for the economy and rebuilding efforts.
Birthday party ends in court
A woman who denied behaving in a disorderly manner and using profanity while celebrating her birthday at home was granted bail before her trial.
Here we go again: PM piles on the pain in desperate bid to halt runaway virus
RESIDENTS in New Providence and Abaco will be placed under strict movement restrictions, featuring a 7pm daily curfew and full weekend lockdowns until the COVID-19 situation sees improvement, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, pictured, announced yesterday.
NHI unveils next stage ambition
THE National Health Insurance Authority has announced plans to expand its primary care services.
Three months in jail for store break-in and theft
A SPANISH Wells man was sentenced to three months in prison for breaking into his father’s shop and for stealing an assortment of vodka from another business last week.
Man accused of stealing pouch
A 30-year-old man was remanded to prison after he was accused of trying to steal a woman’s money pouch.
Man who hit girlfriend told to keep the peace
A MAN who assaulted his girlfriend during a domestic dispute last month was bound over to keep the peace for a year.
Jonquel returns
After she opted out of the 2020 WNBA season, Jonquel Jones made her official return to the basketball court this week in the Russian Women’s Basketball Premier League.
Marlins on the brink of elimination
Jazz Chisholm and the Miami Marlins are faced with elimination for the first time in the 2020 MLB playoffs.
Reckley and Johnson in international showcase
Bahamian baseball prospects continue to showcase their skills on the international stage.
Offer already on the table as Wilson weighs next move
Wardrick Wilson’s recruitment has reopened since he signed on for a year of prep football and the former four star recruit had already received one official Division I offer.
Spare us the drivel
THE humble Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel gave the world guidance about the inaccurate retelling of history that could serve as a balm for those choking on still more hogwash from Kevin Evans.
Open letter to the PM
ONCE again, sir, you have not failed to disappoint me. Since March 2020, what you have really accomplished is not only a surge in COVID-19 cases, but also bringing the national economy to its knees.
Improves cyber security aids corporate resilience
It would be misleading to state or infer that cyber security management and compliance are easy tasks. These topics can often appear daunting to many top executives, small business owners and all those in between. To further complicate the discussion, there are so many acronyms, technology jargon, controls, regulations, codes of conduct and more that must be carefully analysed in an effort to create the safest environment for your privacy, communications, professional and personal data.
Chamber chair: Lockdown to hit restaurants and retail
The Chamber of Commerce's chairman yesterday warned the retail and restaurant industries will be among those hit hardest by enhanced COVID-19 restrictions that may prove counter-productive.
Second airline targets pre-flight COVID test
Another airline yesterday announced it was working with the Government to implement pre-flight COVID-19 testing for all passengers travelling to The Bahamas.
Supply chain boost via new Rock Sound dock
Rock Sound's replacement dock will improve the speed and efficiency of deliveries to businesses in that part of Eleuthera when it is completed by May 2021.
Gym owners: Closure now 'very real option'
Stunned Bahamian gym owners yesterday said closure of their businesses is "a very real option" after the Prime Minister yesterday ordered the sector to close again just two weeks after it re-opened.
Restaurant 'very upset' over COVID measures
A restaurant owner yesterday said he was "very upset" by the reimposition of tighter COVID-19 restrictions on the industry, adding that he felt "victimised" due to the sharp cut in opening hours.
Small Business Bill is pledged by mid-2021
The deputy prime minister has pledged that the Small Business Development Bill (SBDB) will be brought to Parliament before the current fiscal year on June 30, 2021.
Wednesday, October 7
81 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday that there were 81 new cases of COVID-19 and 70 additional recovered cases.
EDITORIAL: A bright idea to break the COVID impasse
JUST when it seems the government is fresh out of ideas – along comes the private sector.
Golden Girl urges next generation to pick up the baton
AS the last of the Golden Girls to compete on the women’s 4 x 400 meter relay team, sprinter Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie said it’s disappointing that the Bahamas wasn’t able to continue the trend of producing more female athletes to compete at the major international track and field meets.
ALICIA WALLACE: People in power need to stop paying lip service to the problem and do something about it
Since the murder of a young mother and her daughter, the issue of domestic violence has been getting more attention in the media.
Govt ‘not trying to eradicate shanty towns’
ATTORNEYS representing the government in a judicial review centred on shanty town demolition yesterday revealed excerpts of Labour Minister Dion Foulkes’ most recent affidavits, in which he denies the government is attempting to eradicate shanty towns to take possession of the land.
Davis: Why take so long over marijuana legislation?
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip Brave Davis said the Minnis administration should have already addressed the issue of legalising marijuana and expunging the records of people who were convicted for possessing small amounts.
Police ‘ill equipped’ for domestic abuse
A LOCAL activist yesterday criticised the Royal Bahamas Police Force for its “ill-equipped policing system” to effectively respond to the needs of domestic violence victims, saying more measures and community partnerships are needed to better protect vulnerable victims.
Kanye drops in on the Exumas
You’d imagine he had enough on his plate but life never stops for mega rapper Kanye West.
Education minister in quarantine
EDUCATION Minister Jeffrey Lloyd said yesterday he is one of the Cabinet ministers currently quarantined as he came into contact with Environment Minister Romauld Ferreira, who recently tested positive for COVID-19.
Testing plan to escape COVID 'sledgehammer'
A non-profit coalition yesterday unveiled an "end-to-end" workplace testing and management solution in a bid to help The Bahamas to escape the "sledgehammer approach" of COVID-19 lockdowns.
Dive operator 'begs' Gov't for oil exploration rethink
A prominent Bahamian dive operator yesterday "begged" the Government to reconsider its approval of oil exploration in Bahamian waters, arguing: "The environment cannot take any more stress."
Contractor's error causes three-day South Bimini outage
Second homeowners yesterday said they were "rethinking our winter plans" after South Bimini was left without electricity for three days when a contractor cut Bahamas Power & Light's (BPL) cable.
'Deal breaker' fear over COVID curbs
A prominent realtor yesterday voiced concern that new COVID-19 restrictions could interfere with the planned November 1 end to the 14-day mandatory quarantine that has become a "deal breaker".
New 'Battle 4 Atlantis' over redundancy pay
Resort staff are planning to hold their own 'Battle 4 Atlantis' today by staging a march over the Paradise Island bridge to demand that they receive full severance packages from the mega hotel.
Gov'ts 'surest bet' is on Bahamian entrepreneurs
The deputy prime minister yesterday said the Government's investment in Bahamian entrepreneurs is "the surest bet" it has made as it targets specific industries in the 2020-2021 fiscal year.
Small Business Centre targets new initiatives
The Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) yesterday said it had secured $52.7m worth of financing for entrepreneurs during its first two years as it seeks to expand initiatives targeting the sector.
Weekend lockdowns for New Providence and Abaco
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has announced new restrictions to movement only for residents of New Providence and Abaco due to high COVID-19 case numbers, that have now forced the health care system to the edge of “collapse”.
PMH housekeeping staff demand - what about us?
STAFF members of the housekeeping department at Princess Margaret Hospital are complaining about feeling unsafe and also neglected by the Public Hospitals Authority as they go about their duties facing the possibility of contracting the COVID-19 virus.
Lashan bounces back with a bang
AFTER losing her first two games as a professional female basketball player, Lashann Higgs and the Embutidos Pajariel Bembibre PDM finally got their first win in the Liga Femenina Endesa, the top division of women’s basketball in Spain.
Clarke blazing a trail at Alabama
SYDNEY Clarke made a successful debut for the University of Alabama at Arlington (UAB) as she helped the Blazers produce a great showing at the ITA Fall Circuit at the Athletic Club in Huntsville, Alabama.
Boater dies in Andros tragedy
A BOATING incident on Monday near Andros has claimed the life of a civilian and left two off-duty members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) in hospital.
Brave - lockdowns are a ‘useless tool’
LOCKDOWNS have been a “useless tool” in the hands of the Minnis administration, insisted Progressive Liberal Party Leader Philip “Brave” Davis yesterday, as he urged officials to allow free COVID-19 testing for all Bahamians.
Ministry closed for cleaning
THE Ministry of the Environment and Housing was closed yesterday for deep cleaning and sanitisation after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.
73 new COVID-19 cases, two more deaths
SEVENTY-THREE new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed yesterday, while the death toll increased by two.
Abaco lockdown ‘would hinder Dorian recovery’
ABACO residents say they will not support another full lockdown for the island to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 as more restrictive measures would hinder Hurricane Dorian restoration efforts and negatively impact the island’s economy.
An extra hand to fight hunger
JS Johnson and Company recently sponsored the purchase of a new refrigerated panel truck to assist the feeding efforts of Hands for Hunger.
Woman lied over ‘shotgun attack’
A 21-year-old woman who filed a false police report accusing a man of assaulting her with a shotgun to steal her cellphone was fined $150.
Fourth man on drugs charge
A FOURTH man was arraigned in connection with a $3m drug seizure in the Exuma cays last month.
Man fined $250 over marijuana joints
A man who claimed he found several marijuana joints while walking through a shortcut on his way home from work was fined $250.
Too tough to travel
I AM writing to express the frustration of my wife and myself about the increasingly difficult and time consuming requirements to enter The Bahamas.
The failures of all our utilities
SINCE the beginning of COVID-19 awareness in this country, companies have had to adjust the way in which they operate. Everyone understands that and so I was prepared to give them a certain amount of adaption time so they could work out the kinks. But here is my problem:
Tuesday, October 6
FACE TO FACE: Belinda learned from her mother - standing up for others and making their voices heard
MANY schools, especially public schools in The Bahamas, had their first day of school yesterday. It also happened to be World Teacher’s Day - the 26th annual day honouring teachers globally. This year’s theme was: “Teachers leading in crisis – reimagining the future”.
EDITORIAL: What do we do about oil?
IS oil the future or is oil the past?
Moore Foundation offers more relief after Hurricane Dorian
THE Moore Bahamas Foundation has announced new grants for Hurricane Dorian relief and recovery, bringing contributions thus far to more than $700,000 as part of a million-dollar pledge by conservation philanthropist, Louis Bacon.
No decision yet on creation of permanent voters register
NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said officials have not yet made a decision on recommendations from the Parliamentary Registration Department about creating a permanent or continuous voters’ register for the upcoming general election.
Environment Minister tests positive
MINISTER of Environment and Housing Romauld Ferreira has tested positive for COVID-19.
Davis: I was in worse condition than I thought
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party leader Philip “Brave” Davis said his condition due to COVID-19 was a lot worse than he knew, revealing his oxygen had fallen to a “precarious level”.
One dead, two injured in boating accident
One man died and two others were injured in a boating accident off Andros on Monday.
Marines to the rescue as man buried in sand collapse
MARINES helped to rescue a man on Saturday after he was buried underneath a heavy load of sand.
Lockdown 'death sentence' fears
The Government was yesterday warned that it will hand "a death sentence to an economy already teetering on the edge" if it reimposes a full New Providence lockdown to curb COVID-19's spread.
Activists not reassured by oil explorer's pledge
Environmental activists yesterday said they were "even more concerned" despite Bahamas Petroleum Company's (BPC) assurance it has sufficient insurance to cover all costs associated with an oil spill.
Chamber urges 'balanced' plan on COVID spike
The Chamber of Commerce's chairman yesterday called for a "balanced" approach to addressing New Providence's COVID-19 surge that addressed both health and economic concerns.
Gov't 'walking before running' on COVID test
A Cabinet minister said the Government wanted to "walk before it runs" on the roll-out of arrival and in-stay COVID-19 testing for tourists once the mandatory quarantine is eliminated on November 1.
Abaco fears 'irreparable blow' if further lockdown
Abaco's Chamber of Commerce president yesterday warned that reimposing a full COVID-19 lockdown on the island would deal its economy and Dorian recovery a "possibly irreparable blow".
Accused of killing mother and daughter
A 36-year-old man was brought to court yesterday to face charges connected to the murder of a woman and her young daughter late last month.
Shootings spark call to increase police numbers
RESIDENTS of Eleuthera are calling for more police presence as a wave of crime has come to that picturesque island in recent times.
How can we drill for oil?
BAHAMAS National Trust is against Bahamas Petroleum Company’s proposed exploratory oil drilling before year’s end, insisting yesterday that several factors present serious concerns.
Prison chief Murphy has COVID-19 virus
COMMISSIONER of the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services Charles Murphy has tested positive for COVID-19.
Date rape victim’s warning to women
A GRAND Bahama woman who was left emotionally traumatised and physically scarred is warning other women to be careful at bars and nightclubs after she was reportedly drugged and raped by a stranger while celebrating at a local nightspot last year.
Baha Mar chief: Testing 'key' to economy restart
Baha Mar's top executive says widespread COVID-19 testing "is key to restarting our economy" and reducing local infections as he paid tribute to the role played by one of his properties in this fight.
IT provider laments slow COVID solutions take-up
A Bahamian information technology (IT) provider yesterday lamented this nation's slow adoption of solutions such as his queue-less product to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
Private sector mixed over PM COVID lockdown hint
Nassau businesses yesterday gave a mixed reaction the prospect of tighter COVID-19 restrictions and/or lockdowns, with some branding it "foolishness" as others agreed the infection rate must be cut.
$1,500 fine for theft attempt
A 48-year-old man was fined $1,500 after officers caught him attempting to steal a water heater during curfew from a local restaurant last week.
Dispute over start of school orientations
DIRECTOR of Education Marcellus Taylor and Bahamas Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson were at odds yesterday over the confusion surrounding this week’s school orientations.
Row over keeping distance ends in fight
A 20-year-old woman who punched another woman after they got into an argument about social distancing while riding on a local bus was ordered to compensate the complainant for her injuries.
Man accused of killing store manager
A MAN was charged with robbing and murdering a store manager yesterday.
Population density is the problem
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis’ revelation to the country that one out of 100 Nassuvians has been infected with COVID-19 is evidence that the current restrictive measures have failed miserably to curb the spread of the deadly virus, which has claimed the lives of 96 Bahamians.
‘Leave Church alone’
I concur with the article of Thursday, May 28, 2020 in the Nassau Guardian by Bishop Walter Hanchell. The Prime Minister has indeed been extremely unfair to the church. I concur with the position of Pastor T G Morrison who stated that the government does not have the power to tell the church what to do. He is indeed a brave bold warrior for Christ. This repeated stance indeed.
Killing fields of Nassau
Crime does not belong to any political party as it affects all Bahamians without regard to race; politics or creed. The recent uptick in homicides, especially involving young children is troubling and a matter of grave public concern.
Tureano on target
The Tureano Johnson bout against Jamie Munguia is just over three weeks away and the former WBO super welterweight champion appears confident of his chances against the Bahamian middleweight.
Chris Brown salutes hero Tommie Smith
FROM one Olympian to another, Bahamian quarter-miler Chris ‘Fireman’ Brown said he was honored to have been asked to assist in the fourth Live the Legacy Gala that was held on Saturday night for American 200m Olympic gold medalist Dr Tommie Smith.
Pair are making it big in Japan
The Japanese B-League tipped off its season opener last weekend and a pair of Bahamian national team players saw their respective teams get off to perfect starts.
Bridgewater’s star on the rise
Dominick Bridgewager is emerging as a star in France’s Nationale Masculine 2 (NM2) League.
107 new COVID-19 cases, death toll reaches 100
The Ministry of Health reported on Monday that there were 107 new cases of COVID-19, one death, three deaths under investigation now confirmed as COVID-19 related and 100 recovered cases.
Monday, October 5
Trump, still infectious, back at White House — without mask
BETHESDA, Md. (AP) — President Donald Trump staged a dramatic return to the White House Monday night after leaving the military hospital where he was receiving an unprecedented level of care for COVID-19. He immediately ignited a new controversy by declaring that despite his illness the nation should not fear the virus that has killed more than 210,000 Americans — and then he entered the White House without a protective mask.
An end to a historic run
The longest-running international bowl game in college football history is the latest major event on the Bahamas’ sports tourism calendar to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
INSIGHT: Chantal is just like many Bahamian women. She had simple goals in life - study hard, find a good job, meet a nice guy and settle down.
Not much to ask for but sadly for too many women in our society today that simple dream can end in tears
I met D when I was a student at College of The Bahamas. Both of us were doing evening classes because we worked during the day. Since we were both in the business department, we had more than one class together the semester we met. We got to know each other when we were in the same group for a project. I saw he was very smart and he was always friendly toward me.
EDITORIAL: Get ready, New Providence
BRACE yourselves for another lockdown.
INSIGHT: Poetic justice, maybe? Either way, Trump contracting COVID-19 does not bode well for The Bahamas
IN the same week when US President Donald Trump may have upped it a notch in becoming the most vilified man in the world, equally as shocking as his behaviour during the first presidential debate was the news that came early Friday morning. The American President tested positive for COVID-19.
Bye bye Bowl: Pandemic sees event move - but organisers hope for return
THE domino effect of the coronavirus pandemic on international sports in the country continue to fall as ESPN has announced that they are moving the Bahamas Bowl from the Thomas A Robinson National Stadium this year.
Retired senior police officer dies
RETIRED Assistant Commissioner of Police Willard Cunningham died yesterday morning.
Flying the flag for Black History Month
ST Catharine’s College in the United Kingdom flew the national flag of The Bahamas above Cambridge city centre on October 1 to signify the start of a programme of activities celebrating Black History Month.
Bank of The Bahamas hit by Central Bank’s 3-year bar
Bank of The Bahamas’ top executive admitted its risk management had been poor as he revealed the Central Bank has blocked it from taking on new business borrowers for three-plus years.
Bahamasair’s revenue off a ‘staggering’ $32m
Bahamasair’s “staggering” financial losses continue to mount, its chairman revealed yesterday, disclosing that revenues for its just-completed 2020 financial year were down $32m compared to 2019.
Three insurers tasked on COVID visitor coverage
The government is seeking to implement by November 1 a COVID-19 travel insurance scheme to cover the treatment/evacuation costs for any visitor who falls sick in The Bahamas.
Oil explorer: We’ve got tourism, fishing covered
A Bahamas-based oil explorer yesterday reassured that the insurance coverage for its first well will cover any tourism or fisheries losses “in the highly unlikely event” of any spill or environmental impact.
The pros and cons of dollarisation - it’s no magic wand
ActivTrades
VER the course of last week the discussion on dollarisation became a hot topic in local news. The debate has been lively with both advocates and opponents arguing passionately. But what exactly is dollarisation and how does the idea work? Could it be the magic wand many long for? Here we’ll look at the concept and try to weigh some of its pros and cons.
Bahamian utilities urged to seize insurance offer
Activists yesterday urged Grand Bahama Power Company to prevent further controversy over efforts to recover hurricane restoration costs from its customers by seizing on a new regional initiative.
Recovery plan urges ‘digital marketplace’
The government’s Economic Recovery Committee has called for the creation of “a national digital marketplace” among 163 proposals designed to “spur” economic recovery, the prime minister said yesterday.
Islands slam ‘oversight’ on rapid COVID testing
Cat Island and Long Island resorts have branded the government’s decision not to have COVID-19 testing at their ports of entry a “major oversight”.
Bahamian insurers receive new names
Two Bahamian insurance companies will today take on new names as part of a rebranding strategy by their Bermuda-based parent.
Four-year-old’s last words: ‘Mummy, get the doctor’
“MUMMY get the doctor, please get the doctor,” were the last words of a four-year-old boy who was shot and killed in Eleuthera on Saturday while he was in his father’s arms.
550 cases in a week
THE Bahamas recorded more than 550 confirmed COVID-19 cases last week, with health data suggesting that the number of cases could continue to increase for the country in the days ahead.
43 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday
The Ministry of Health reported that there were 43 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday.
Fanfare - but still restrictions
How disappointing to read in your news this morning that restrictive measures will still be in place to enter The Bahamas as of November.
Sorry state of policing
That Bahamian police see themselves as a “force” rather than a “service” is one of the most repugnant and backward features of life in The Bahamas today.
Teachers are precious treasures
IT is unquestionable that teachers promote the best habits of independent thought and learning in pursuit of excellence.
Hield at odds with Kings coach Walton
The relationship between Buddy Hield and the Sacramento Kings appears to be unstable as the franchise continues its offseason.
From safety on the field to safety in a time of COVID
BAHAMIAN former National Football League player Dr Myron Rolle continue to make an impact as a neurosurgery resident on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Chisholm ready for Braves
Jazz Chisholm and the Miami Marlins will continue their improbable playoff run this week in the National League Division Series.
From teammates to rivals
AFTER teaming up with each other in a few Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Tournament games this summer, Deyton Albury and Garreth Edgecombe played against each other for the first time in their pre-college prep experience.
UPDATED: Gunmen ‘followed family to their home’
COMMISSIONER of Police Paul Rolle yesterday said the gunmen who shot and killed a man and his son in Eleuthera on Saturday followed the victim and his family to their Rock Sound property to carry out the attack.
UPDATED: Man’s body found as fire guts property
A MAN’S body was found in a house on Meadow Street on Saturday night after police extinguished a fire.
Paying a price for dicing with COVID: 48 hours to agree new tactic to halt New Providence/Abaco surge
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis yesterday warned that one out of every 100 New Providence residents is infected with COVID-19 – and having had talks with international health experts, the government would talk to the business community over the next two days on its next move.
Sunday, October 4
Trump greets supporters following new details of his illness
BETHESDA, Md. (AP) — Infected and contagious, President Donald Trump briefly ventured out in a motorcade on Sunday to salute cheering supporters, a move that disregarded precautions meant to contain the deadly virus that has forced his hospitalization and killed more than 209,000 Americans.
Saturday, October 3
96 new COVID-19 cases on Friday
The Ministry of Health reported that there were 96 new COVID-19 cases, one additional non-COVID-19 related death and one additional death under investigation on Friday.
Trump said to be improving but next 48 hours 'critical'
BETHESDA, Md. (AP) — President Donald Trump went through a "very concerning" period Friday and faces a "critical" next two days in his fight against COVID-19 at a military hospital, his chief of staff said Saturday — in contrast to a rosier assessment moments earlier by Trump doctors, who took pains not to reveal the president had received supplemental oxygen at the White House before his hospital admission.
Friday, October 2
COVID-19: The workplace is now a 'hotspot'
DECLARING the workplace a COVID-19 “hotspot”, health officials revealed data has suggested that workplace establishments and mass gatherings may be the leading environments of exposure to the novel coronavirus.
COVID-19: No flattening of the curve for New Providence
CHIEF Medical Officer Dr Pearl McMillan revealed Friday that health officials have not yet seen a flattening of the curve for New Providence, with data suggesting the number of COVID-19 cases could continue to increase for the island in the days ahead.
With GBPA support, Genesis Academy to restart in-person lessons in November
Freeport, Grand Bahama: With the support of the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) Limited, Genesis Academy’s Principal Dr Ricardo Major and his staff will restart in-person lessons at the facility in late November.
Man charged with murder wanted for bail violation
A 29-year-old Grand Bahama man charged with murder is wanted by police for a bail violation.
BUT President claims schools hit by COVID-19 cases
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson claimed Friday that a number of schools have been plagued by COVID-19 cases this week.
PLP Chairman questions whether govt can monitor travel protocols
PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Chairman Fred Mitchell has questioned whether government has the capacity to properly monitor its new travel protocols, which will come into force in about a month.
Event for displaced children postponed after official tests positive for COVID-19
The welcome home celebration planned for Friday for the 30 displaced children at the Grand Bahama Children’s Home has been postponed after an official travelling in the delegation for the event tested positive for COVID-19.
Industrial Tribunal in Grand Bahama opens new premises
The Industrial Tribunal in Grand Bahama opened its new premises at Freeport Insurance Building on Friday.
Six months probation for unlawful possession charge
A 20-year-old man was charged with unlawful possession in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Man accused of stealing cousin's phone
A 34-year-old man who was accused of stealing his cousin’s phone was ordered to compensate him for the device.
Man pleads guilty to marijuana possession
A MAN was fined $500 after he pleaded guilty to marijuana possession in the Magistrate's Court on Friday.
Three face fraud charges
THREE women were charged separately with fraud in the Freeport Magistrate's Court on Friday.
Trump, stricken by COVID-19, taken to military hospital
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump appeared in public Friday evening for the first time since being stricken by COVID-19, boarding his Marine One helicopter for a flight to a military hospital as the virus that has killed more than 205,000 Americans spread to the highest reaches of the U.S. government.
BPL Skyguard Severe Weather Alert 2nd October: Nassau
STARTS: 10/02/2020 5:50 PM EDT EXPIRES: 10/02/2020 8:00 PM EDT
Golden Girls' 20th anniversary recognised
In recognition of the 20th anniversary of the “Golden Girls” gold-medal-winning performance at the 2000 Sydney Olympics . . .
DIANE PHILLIPS: We drive by them every day, stick thin faces hiding a story few of us care to listen to
The first time I met Jennie (not her real name), she was the picture of all-American wholesomeness, the kind of girl who looked like she was raised near the cornfields of Iowa or flew in fresh from the cheese belt of Wisconsin. Long, dark hair with sun streaks running through it, bright, light brown eyes, full of life and anticipation. I’d guess her age to be in her late 20s.
A COMIC'S VIEW: There can be another way
THIS week, I had another encounter at the barber shop and it turned out to be quite informative.
EDITORIAL: Could the police have prevented double murder?
IT must be heartbreaking beyond belief for the family of Alicia Sawyer and eight-year-old Ednique Wallace to be left asking “What if?”
Parents say children still without electronic devices
WITH public schools set to reopen next week, some parents are worried their children are not prepared as many are still without devices with which to take part in online lessons.
Three years on, progress . . . but more still needed say Ragged Islanders
THREE years after Hurricane Irma ravaged Ragged Island, residents there said while some progress has been made to restore the island to its former glory, more work can still be done by the government.
Salvation Army offers aid
THE Salvation Army is continuing its COVID-19 support efforts - providing in August care packages valued at $100 each to 100 families, assisting more than 390 people. This initiative, facilitated by a $7,500 grant from the Citi Foundation, was a partnership with United Way Guatemala.
Mario’s closes again - and Miller warns of high costs
FORMER Tall Pines MP Leslie Miller said Mario’s Bowling and Family Entertainment Palace will close down until further notice following inquiries from this newspaper after the establishment reopened this week.
A helping hand back to school
THE Royal Bahamas Police Force handed out school supplies at the Pinewood Gardens Park yesterday.
Taxi cab fees exempted
ALL taxi cabs and public buses have been exempted from payment of inspection fees for the month of October, the Ministry of Transport and Local Government said yesterday.
Coca-Cola supplier sees 'huge' 30-40% sales hit
The Bahamas' Coca-Cola supplier yesterday revealed its sales are down "between 30-40 percent on any given day" with reduced demand forcing it to cut staff hours by a similar proportion.
Atlantis: 'No firm re-opening date'
Atlantis last night revealed it still "does not have a firm re-opening date" while telling around 8,000 staff it would be "premature" to make any of them permanently redundant.
Tourism 'game changer' through quarantine end
Tourism operators last night hailed the elimination of the mandatory 14-day quarantine for visitors as "a game changer" that may help the industry escape a "bleak" winter 2020 season.
Ex-AG: Competitiveness concern on EU's blacklist
An ex-attorney general yesterday urged The Bahamas to "urgently remediate" what diplomats confirmed as this nation's blacklisting by an "intransigent" European Union (EU).
Dollarisation needs extra $3.2bn inflow
A Bahamian economist yesterday said the economy's full dollarisation was merely “sexy talk” given that an extra $3.2bn foreign currency injection would be required for a one-to-one conversion.
Contractor concern on public contract access
Several Bahamian contractors yesterday voiced concern they are being excluded from public works contracts as others backed the Government for trying to "stimulate as best they can".
Tax Certificate set to launch by year-end
The long-awaited Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) product will be launched by year-end 2020 in a bid to ease pressures on The Bahamas and its permanent residents, a Cabinet minister has pledged.
Resorts hail airline over pre-flight COVID testing
Bahamian resorts yesterday hailed American Airlines' plan to conduct pre-flight COVID-19 testing on all international travellers coming to The Bahamas as an “excellent” initiative.
Banks back Bahamian digital dollar roll-out
Commercial banks yesterday gave their backing to the Bahamian digital dollar's national roll-out as a means to improve financial inclusion and transaction efficiency.
Garreth looks forward to the competition in college
After participating in a few Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Basketball Tournaments this summer, Garreth Edgecombe is eagerly looking forward to competing at the collegiate level.
Wong shows off her equestrian skills
EQUESTRIAN athlete Peyton Wong hasn’t allowed COVID-19 or the freshman blues to get in the way of pursuing her training. The Queen’s College graduate began her freshman year at the University of Tampa this fall and will ride for the UTampa Equestrian Team under trainer Karey McGee. Wong is a business major, currently studying international business and marketing.
Collie to pursue collegiate baseball with Warriors
FOLLOWING a short stint in the minor leagues, another Bahamian baseball player will have the opportunity at collegiate baseball when the season opens for the upcoming campaign.
Veteran forward Kino Burrows scores 13 in 90-53 blowout victory for Byers
KINO Burrows and the FOS Provence Basket Byers continue the French LNB Pro B Leaders Cup as they continue their preparation for the 2020-21 season.
Rapid tests to replace quarantine from Nov 1
TOURISTS and returning residents will be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival in The Bahamas and again four days later as part of new rules that will take effect on November 1 and eliminate the need for travellers to quarantine.
Limited testing meant number underestimated
INFECTIOUS disease expert Dr Nikkiah Forbes says The Bahamas could have already had more than 100 cases of COVID-19 in late March when only a few infections had been officially confirmed.
Police hunted suspect before double killing
COMMISSIONER Paul Rolle yesterday revealed that several police units were searching for the suspect who had murdered a mother and daughter hours before they were killed.
New TV project for Grand Bahamian
GRAND Bahamian Raquel Beneby Hart did not let COVID-19 avert her plans of launching and developing a new television project, and creating a platform to connect with audiences through innovative, transformative, and empowering television shows.
High-visibility operation by police in GB
GRAND Bahama police were out on the streets in full force yesterday as part of a nationwide police operation launched to increase visibility to deter crime and to ensure COVID-19 protocols are being followed.
Appeal court: Murder trial was unfair and sentence quashed
THE Court of Appeal recently quashed a man’s 35-year murder sentence after he appealed his conviction on the grounds his verdict was unsafe since he did not receive a fair trial.
$75,000 extortion case
AN accountant who was accused of extorting a man out of $75,000 earlier this week was yesterday denied bail ahead of his trial.
Rape suspect denied bail
A 34-year-old man was remanded to prison over allegations he raped a woman last week.
Drilling for oil in The Bahamas
The rest of the world is finally catching on.
Fair play for all, Dr Minnis
Please allow me an opportunity to comment on the Prime Minister’s call for fair play in the global financial arena while addressing the United Nations (UN).
Donald and Melania Trump test positive for COVID-19
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump have tested positive for the coronavirus, the president tweeted early Friday.
BTC celebrates small business importance
The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is celebrating October as Small Business Month to highlight the importance of its 8,000-plus clients in this category to the local economy.
Thursday, October 1
97 new cases of COVID-19
The Ministry of Health reported on Thursday that there were 97 new cases of COVID-19, one non-COVID-19 related death and 84 people confirmed as having recovered.
EDITORIAL: The enemy we cannot see
IT is hard to fight any battle – but it is harder still to fight an enemy you cannot see.
Manning the gates
INTERCESSORS and prayer leaders from around the nation are the being called on to “man the gates” once again this weekend.
Prayer and community
Members of the Deep Creek National Neighbourhood Watch Council (NNWC) have added to their list of duties - with prayer gatherings, car wash events, cleaning initiatives and more.
FRONT PORCH: The Conceit and Danger of Blind Ambition
“To lose patience is to lose the battle.” – Mohandas Gandhi AFTER the results of the 1972 general election, Sir Randol Fawkes, honoured as the Father of Labour who helped to form the first Majority Rule government and became Minister of Labour and Commerce, was out of frontline politics and would never return as a Member of Parliament.
STATESIDE: Trump’s a jerk, a bully and a creep, but for his base of supporters, he’s their jerk
Anne was worried sick. She was sitting on her neighbour Helen’s brick patio, socially distanced, mask waiting in her purse in case it was needed. Some half-empty glasses of white wine sat on the round wrought iron table. Anne settled herself and took another sip of her wine.
Robinson angry at not being allowed to speak
BAIN and Grants Town MP Travis Robinson expressed anger that he was not allowed to speak in the House of Assembly yesterday during a debate on amendments to the Juries Act and the Bail Act.
Davis: Govt did not do enough
OPPOSITION leader Phillip “Brave” Davis has again hit out at the Minnis administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying yesterday the government did not do enough testing and contact tracing “to stop a few cases from turning into a few thousand”.
Village Pub manager is shot dead outside bar
A MAN was shot on Tuesday night and found unresponsive on the sidewalk outside a local bar.
Patricia Minnis helps kids get back to school
MORE than 125 children from the surrounding communities participated in the Free Town Urban Renewal Centre’s back-to-school jamboree held on Friday at the Pilgrim Baptist Temple Community Centre.
A double welcome
THE Progressive Liberal Party held a "service of thanksgiving" yesterday for the return of party leader Philip "Brave" Davis.
COVID 'worst time' to eye dollarisation
COVID-19 is "the worst time" for The Bahamas to consider full dollarisation, an ex-finance minister said yesterday, arguing there were better options for attracting mass foreign currency inflows.
Fusion Superplex warns of 'serious decisions' on staff, finances
The Fusion Superplex will "have to make some serious decisions" on staff terminations and restructuring its finances if it is not permitted to open by early November, its chief executive warned yesterday.
Lucaya Marketplace faces 'nail biting' wait
Port Lucaya Marketplace's principal yesterday said he and his tenants were enduring "a nail biting" time with just 50 percent of stores having re-opened amid the wait for tourism's post-COVID restart.
Tour provider: COVID growth 'unacceptable'
A major tour operator yesterday branded The Bahamas COVID-19 response as a “disaster" and voiced fears that the cruise ships may bypass Nassau even if they resume sailing in November.
BOB takes $6.3m hit over Gov't downgrade
Bank of The Bahamas' was forced by the Moody's 'junk' downgrade of the Government's sovereign creditworthiness to take a $6.3m provisioning hit, its managing director said yesterday.
Evan Sweeting boosts his stock ahead of collegiate baseball recruitment
EVAN Sweeting has delivered a series of impressive performances to boost his stock ahead of his collegiate baseball recruitment.
MAKING HISTORY: Bahamas newest member of ISF
THE Bahamas made history by becoming the newest member of the International School Sports Federation.
‘Jazz’ Chisholm and Marlins beat Cubs 5-1 in playoff opener
THE surprising run for the Miami Marlins continued into the postseason as they now stand one win away from the National League Divisional Series. The No.6 seeded Marlins took game one of the Wild Card series on the road with a 5-1 win over the No. 3 seed Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois.
Extradition appeal rejected in case that dates back to 2002
THE Court of Appeal has denied a man’s request to appeal his extradition case to the Privy Council, after ruling his matter did not raise an arguable case or highlight a point of law of general public importance.
THOUSANDS MAY HAVE CAUGHT VIRUS: Leading medical centres estimate infection rate is much higher than stated
THE true number of COVID-19 cases in the Bahamas is scores higher than the confirmed tally, according to three international research groups that have created separate epidemiological models of the virus.
Speaker rages again over undermining of Parliament
HOUSE Speaker Halson Moultrie yesterday lashed out at the “untenable” state of the country’s parliamentary democracy, as he likened Parliament to a “dinghy” hitched to the executive branch of government instead of having independence.
Suspects face new controls in Bail Act
THE Minnis administration is seeking to make changes to the Bail Act by introducing a bail management system that ensures accountability while eliminating loopholes that allow impropriety.
‘Educate to eradicate domestic violence’
LOCAL activists are again calling on the government to implement the necessary tools to effectively address the needs of domestic violence victims.
Travel rules ill thought
AS A long-time regular visitor and winter resident of Nassau from Toronto I have been following your ongoing articles and letters concerning the entry requirements for The Bahamas. The Finance Minister keeps making financial projections for tourism and The Tourism Minister keeps making ongoing rules. Yet the people affected by these rules – your prospective visitors– largely remain unconsulted.
Shoplifter sentenced to six months jail for theft
A 55-year-old man was sentenced to six months in prison after he was caught attempting to steal an assortment of hygienic products from a local pharmacy last week.
Men admit guilt in breaking curfew
A 45-year-old man who said he violated curfew because he went to pick up his wife from her mother’s house was fined $200 yesterday.
Coconut street vendors
When are we going to regulate the coconut street vendors?
The Church and the Pride
THE Bible has a million different interpretations. Jehovah Witnesses found some obscure text in it reference mixing blood and they will quite literally allow their children to die rather than giving them a blood transfusion. Personally that sickens me.
ART OF GRAPHIX: Capturing the brand message with logos
Your logo is your company's first point of contact with the outside world. If people connect with your branding, the likelihood is they will be more susceptible to what you are offering. If your logo looks amateurish, so will your business.
Work space provider expands to third site
A Bahamian shared work space provider yesterday said it is expanding to its third New Providence location with the launch of its Old Fort Bay facility before 2020 year-end.
Goodman's Bay project eyeing 100 extra hires
A $120m development at Goodman's Bay expects to hire up to 100 additional workers next year despite COVID-19 causing a three-month delay to its construction schedule.
Tourism restart 'more important' than jobless benefits extension
The hotel union's president yesterday said the industry's re-opening, and easing of the 14-day mandatory quarantine, are "more important" to workers than the unemployment benefits extension.
Work space provider targets May opening
A Bahamian shared workspace provider yesterday said it is aiming to exploit the law requiring all businesses to have a physical presence through an office complex that will open by May 2021.
