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INGRAHAM HAS COVID By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net FORMER Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham is in Doctors Hospital with COVID-19 but is expected to make a full recovery, according to his personal doctor, former Health Minister Dr Duane Sands. Mr Ingraham, who first led the Free National Movement to an historic general election victory in 1992 and followed that up with victories in 1997 and
2007, was diagnosed with the virus more than a week ago but was admitted to hospital on Tuesday when his symptoms worsened, Dr Sands said. Initially, he experienced shortness of breath and malaise. Dr Sands, who has been authorised to speak on his behalf, said at no time was the 73-year-old placed on a ventilator machine. “He is COVID positive and he was being treated
THE sister of Rashad Laroda, the man who was killed in a police-involved shooting after reportedly speeding through a checkpoint, does not believe the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s version of the events.
KEEP YOUR WORLD BIG AND OPEN
PAGE NINE
BUDGET DEFICIT TO RISE $140M
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
THE $141m increase in the Government’s forecast 2021-2022 fiscal deficit “is a tremendous warning” that The Bahamas’ must urgently address longstanding structural woes to maximise COVID recovery. Matt Aubry, executive director of the Organisation for Responsible Governance, yesterday said this nation must be “unwavering in shoring up” workforce skills gaps and deficiencies that restricted GDP output.
SEE PAGE THREE
‘I DON’T BELIEVE POLICE VERSION OF SHOOTING’ By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
FRONT PORCH
“My brother was on his way home to his family not doing anything - they killed him for nothing,” Nikita Laroda said. Police said officers were on routine patrols south along East Street on Tuesday shortly before 10pm when they observed a vehicle that drove through a SEE PAGE FIVE
FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
FORMER Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.
Photo: Terrel W Carey Sr
WHY SIT ON IT FOR A YEAR?
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net
A FORENSIC audit initiated by the Minnis administration found there were $1,119,231 in inappropriate payments made in connection with a $10m loan the National Insurance Board made to the Ministry
of Housing under the Christie administration. The loan was meant to fund a national housing construction programme. The inappropriate payments include $417,249 to contractors for unperformed work, $118,025 in duplicate payments to contractors, $300,693 in unauthorised mobilisation
pre-payments to contractors and $283,264 in fund administrator fraud. Minister of Public Services with responsibility for NIB, Brensil Rolle, tabled the audit in the House of Assembly yesterday. The accounting firm, BDO, was engaged by the Minnis administration in SEE PAGE EIGHT
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
JOHNSON WARNING ON EMAIL FRAUDS
FINANCIAL Services, Trade, Industry and Immigration Minister Elsworth Johnson said fraudulent emails are being sent out in his name soliciting a “payment fee” from unsuspecting recipients to access an “international grant”. He said the matter has been turned over to the Financial Crimes Investigation Branch of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and warned people not to fall for the scam. SEE PAGE FOUR
PAGE 2, Thursday, February 25, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
THE HOME of Sir Albert Miller ablaze on Friday evening.
Photo: Vandyke Hepburn
Sir Albert Miller home blaze still being probed By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net GRAND Bahama fire chief Superintendent Floyd Bastian said the fire that destroyed the former
residence of Sir Albert Miller in the Bahama Terrace Subdivision is still under investigation. “We are still trying to determine what caused the fire,” Supt Bastian said when contacted by The
Tribune yesterday. He denied accusations made by Jesper Hansen, the new homeowner’s son, who claimed the fire units took a long time to arrive at the scene on Friday evening. Mr Hansen also claimed
he was told the units did not have enough water pressure. Mr Hansen told the media that the first unit arrived a half-hour after he arrived at the scene. He said no water was coming
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out of the truck. He claimed a second unit arrived with the same issue. On his arrival, he saw the garage on fire, which later spread through the residence, which was destroyed. “There was no water put on the fire,” Mr Hansen told the media as he expressed disappointment over the situation. However Supt Bastian said this version of the events is not true, adding the homeowner’s son appeared to be frustrated. “Due to his frustration, he was not fully aware of what was happening,” said the senior police official. “That is not the facts. The unit came there full of water and due to the distance of the fire hydrants for water supply, the units had to leave to replenish the trucks to come back. “Water was put on the fire; that is how the fire was extinguished. “He was frustrated and trying to give officers directions as to what to do,” Supt
Bastian said. According to an initial police report, officers responded to the scene of a structural fire in the Lunar Boulevard area shortly after 9.45 pm on Friday. Superintendent Stephen Rolle said the Fire Department responded and found a single-story structure fully engulfed. The fire was extinguished, but the structure was totally destroyed. The residence was previously owned by well-known businessman the late Sir Albert Miller and his wife, Lady Laurie, who resided at the home for many years before they died in 2015, and 2018, respectively. Sir Albert was the former president and co-chair of the Grand Bahama Port Authority for almost 30 years. He had been deputy commissioner of police and served on many boards, including FOCOL, Solomon Brothers, Pepsi Cola (Bahamas) Bottling Company, Bahamas Amusements Ltd, and the Sunshine Group.
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, February 25, 2021, PAGE 3
Ingraham has COVID
from page one at home but got worse and is now hospitalised,” Dr Sands said last night. “He is stable, he is in a critical care area at Doctors Hospital being managed by a team of physicians as he convalesces.” Asked about Mr Ingraham’s prognosis, Dr Sands
said doctors hope the worst is behind him. “We can never be 100 percent sure but certainly he is showing various signs of improvement and we fully expect him to improve and ultimately be discharged in a few days,” he said. Mr Ingraham’s age is among the risk factors associated with a serious case of
COVID-19. The medical team taking care of him includes an endocrinologist, a kidney specialist, a pulmonary specialist and an infectious disease specialist. Mr Ingraham’s battle with COVID-19 comes as 19 people were confirmed to have the virus on Tuesday, including 13 men and six women, according to the
latest information from the Ministry of Health. Sixteen people were listed as hospitalised with the virus as of Tuesday, one of whom is listed on the daily dashboard as being in the intensive care unit of Doctors Hospital. Dr Sands, however, said last night that at least three people should be recorded as currently
being in the intensive care unit. One hundred and seventy-nine people have died from COVID-19 to date and 67,216 tests for the virus have been completed. Health officials are said to be on alert for new COVID-19 variants, particularly ones originating in the United Kingdom and South Africa which are said
to be more contagious than the original strain. Some studies suggest the variants are also more deadly. Health Minister Renward Wells revealed on Monday that the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine should be in the country by the end of this week. Health workers, he said, could be administering the jabs as early as next week.
Bostwick-Dean favourite for Seabreeze nomination By TANYA SMITHCARTWRIGHT tsmith-cartwright@ tribunemedia.net
FREE National Movement Senator Lisa Bostwick-Dean is said to be the frontrunner to run on the party’s ticket in Seabreeze in the next general election, according to insiders. The area’s current member of Parliament Lanisha Rolle resigned her post as Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture on Tuesday. She did not cite a reason for her decision, however, the Cabinet Office said Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis accepted her resignation, adding that “certain matters have been brought to” his attention and are currently under investigation. Mrs Rolle said in a letter to Governor General C A Smith that she intended to serve out the remainder of her term as an MP. It had been rumoured for some time that she would not be ratified to run in the next general election, something her own father confirmed in an interview to reporters on Tuesday. Yesterday an FNM insider said it was always the plan to “rid the Seabreeze constituency of that controversial MP and now Lisa will represent us in the elections”. The Tribune reached out to FNM chairman Carl Culmer, who was tightlipped and did not confirm or deny that Senator Bostwick-Dean would be the candidate for Seabreeze. Mr Culmer would not say if she sat before the FNM’s vetting committee either. He said, “I cannot speak to that at this time. We do not disclose information on who comes before our vetting committee. I know Lisa quite well. She comes from a rich FNM legacy through her mother and her father.” Senator Bostwick-Dean is the managing partner at the law firm Bostwick and Bostwick. She is the daughter of the first woman to be elected to the House of Assembly, Dame Janet Bostwick and former Senate President Henry Bostwick. Sworn in as a Senator on December 2, 2019, her platform interests include youth
THE SEABREEZE constituency sign bearing the image of incumbent MP Lanisha Rolle.
SENATOR Lisa Bostwick-Dean. justice and youth matters. She said it is essential for the government to address issues surrounding young people in a more comprehensive manner. She is also an advocate for women’s rights, like her mother. Contacted yesterday to confirm whether she has been selected as the candidate for Seabreeze, Senator Bostwick-Dean was not ready to spill the beans as yet. She said, “I have no comment on this matter. It will all come to light when the ratification process is completed.” Danny Sumner, chairman of the FNM Association for Seabreeze, was also tight lipped when contacted about the next candidate for his constituency. Mr Sumner said, “I really don’t want to comment because everything is still up in the air. So, unfortunately, I really don’t want to make a comment on that right now.”
Asked what he thought of Mrs Rolle’s resignation and her performance as an MP he said, “I don’t want to comment on that either for the time being.” Meanwhile the FNM insider told The Tribune that all interviews of potential candidates are complete at this time and the chairman will soon send out the details of who has been ratified. The insider also said that Elizabeth MP Dr Duane Sands will be representing the FNM in the upcoming election, despite speculation to the contrary. The Tribune also spoke to some constituents of Seabreeze to find out their thoughts about Mrs Rolle’s performance. “Lanisha Rolle was the worst MP we ever saw in Seabreeze,” Margot Smith said. “She was horrible. We are happy to see the back of her head.” She said she sought Mrs Rolle’s help after her electricity was shut off and did not receive a favourable response. “I felt like two cents,” she said. Keisha McDonald said she was happy that there might be someone other than Mrs Rolle representing Seabreeze for the FNM. She said, “We heard that our branch is looking for a replacement for Lanisha.
MINNIS: I’D CALL EARLY ELECTION - BUT IT’S NOT JUST UP TO ME PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis suggested yesterday that if it were up to him alone, he would call an early election but said he is being guided by his team. His comment in the House of Assembly came amid rampant speculation that the Minnis administration will call a snap election. Both the Free National Movement and the Progressive Liberal Party have started ratifying candidates for the next general election, which must be called by May 2022. The FNM and PLP have also both been running campaign-style ads which We are happy about that. Lanisha is not a good representative. It’s like those who voted for her are expected to bow down to her. We put her in Parliament to represent us so why do we have to bow to her? It’s embarrassing that our MP is always making the news doing something ridiculous.” Meanwhile, resident
have been in steady rotation on social media and television. However, Dr Minnis has repeatedly brushed off talk of an early vote. “If you think they ready, I will stand here now and ring the bell,” he said in Parliament while delivering his mid-year budget presentation. “This is not a government in isolation, as much as I may want to, I am advised by all.” He also jeered at FNM Pineridge MP Frederick McAlpine, who has been on the outs with his party due to his frequent criticisms of the Minnis administration and claims
Tasha Young is excited at the thought of Mrs BostwickDean representing the area. “Lisa Bostwick is FNM royalty,” she said. “We need a person like that in Seabreeze. A worker. Someone who will truly represent us. Mrs Bostwick-Dean is a true FNM and she will do right by us here in Seabreeze. It’s time now that we have good
they have kept him out of the loop. “Macs, you ask for it? Because if I ring it, you gone,” he quipped at Mr McAlpine, before smiling and taking a sip of water. During his mid-year budget presentation, Dr Minnis painted a picture of the sobering crisis the country faces due to Hurricane Dorian in 2019 and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, he said the government has steered the country well during these events and predicted that the country will emerge from these crises stronger than ever. representation in Parliament and not someone who feels we are the ants beneath her sandals.” Senator Bostwick-Dean is the mother of one child and is married to Brent Dean, former general manager and editor of The Nassau Guardian. Attempts to reach Mrs Rolle for comment were unsuccessful.
NO DAMAGE TO PARTY IMAGE, INSISTS FNM CHAIRMAN By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net FREE National Movement chairman Carl Culmer was adamant yesterday that he didn’t think that the party’s image has been negatively affected by controversy over the last few years, most recently the resignation of former Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Lanisha Rolle. Asked if he felt this matter and other controversies that have dogged the Minnis administration could affect the party’s image, Mr Culmer said: “I don’t think so because everybody will look at the FNM in a different light because they realiae the FNM is straight up. “There is a difference between the FNM and the PLP. When anything
happens, our people would gracefully bow out and do not bring their concerns on the party. “Unlike the PLP, they dig in deep, and they try and bury themselves. Then they get lost, but with the FNM our people realise that the party is bigger than any individual and they gracefully bow out and allow the party to continue.” When his attention was drawn to his party’s issues, Mr Culmer said: “No, no, no what controversy?” Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis accepted Mrs Rolle’s resignation from her ministerial post on Tuesday, with a statement from the Cabinet Office noting that “certain matters have been brought to” his attention and are currently under investigation.
The Tribune understands that when ministry officials and the board of the National Sports Authority became concerned that established processes and procedures were allegedly not being followed at their agencies, they took their concerns to Dr Minnis on Saturday, February 13. Dr Minnis is said to have then immediately requested a “lockdown” of the ministry, ordering that no cheques or contracts be issued. The following day, Sunday, February 14, he asked Financial Secretary Marlon Johnson to launch an audit into the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and to report its findings within at most four days, this newspaper understands. Dr Minnis received the report from the ministry’s
internal audit department on Thursday, February 18. The Office of the Auditor General is now auditing the National Sports Authority. Its focus intersects with the inner workings of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. Mrs Rolle could not be reached for comment yesterday. Attempts to reach the NSA were also fruitless. In its term, the governing party has weathered the controversial Oban deal of 2018 that has yet to materialise. Four Cabinet ministers, including Mrs Rolle, have resigned and recently House Speaker Halson Moultrie quit the party to become an independent MP. Two other MPs, Vaughn Miller and Reece Chipman previously left the FNM citing differences with the party.
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THE TRIBUNE
Small Homes Repair scheme resumes after suspension By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net AFTER several months of being suspended, the Disaster Reconstruction Authority has officially resumed its Small Homes Repair programme, with officials targeting June 30 to complete work for the “first tranche” of those homeowners who were promised help. Speaking to The Tribune yesterday, Katherine Forbes-Smith, DRA managing director, described the news as “exciting” and said it now allows the agency to go “full speed” ahead towards completing the programme. The plan was suspended in September after the suppliers did not receive payments from the time the initiative was launched last February to assist with the repair of homes destroyed by Hurricane Dorian in 2019.
However, the repair programme was given the green light to resume after the agency was able to secure a good portion of the funding needed to complete the relief initiative, estimated at some $13 million. And, according to Mrs Forbes-Smith, some $8 million has already been allocated by the government for the continuation of the programme, which will allow the DRA to fulfil its obligations to over 2,000 storm victims. However, she said the agency still needs about $5 million to assist the remainder of the approved applicants and is currently working to secure partnerships and raise additional funds to that effect. “The programme resumed two weeks ago,” she said. “The government has extended the programme by making a commitment of a further $8 plus million to the
TOTAL CASES
programme and it is going well. “We at the moment have approved 3,735 homeowners. We are active and will be able to complete 2,645 homeowners. That leaves a balance of 1,090 homeowners so that is where we need additional funding for and that additional funding will be about $5 million. “Now, having said that, we are also talking to a number of donors who are interested in assisting the DRA with the small home repair programme…and we’re having those discussions as we speak.” Yesterday, Mrs ForbesSmith said the agency has established priority groups and will first honour its commitments to those approved registrants who have already received a portion or half of the funding from the DRA before the programme was suspended. “When we resumed the programme, our focus
TOTAL DEATHS
8,496 179 NEWLY CONFIRMED CASES TUESDAY 19 CASES NEW PROVIDENCE 7 ABACO 4 BIMINI AND CAT CAY 4 GRAND BAHAMA 3 ANDROS 1
TOTAL TESTS
67,216
HOSPITALISED
15
CASES IN ICU
1
RECOVERED
7,274
was we need to be able to complete those persons who have started. So right now, all of the persons who received at least 50 percent or some money towards their home, we felt that it was obviously more beneficial to complete those persons. So, you don’t want to start a project with someone and not complete it so that’s what we’re doing. “In Abaco, we’re working with just over 600 people. In Grand Bahama, the number is just over 1,500 so what you’re going to find is before the programme (was) suspended in September of last year, there were about 1,200 people who completed the programme 100 percent.” Next up will be those registrants who have been approved by the DRA but have yet to receive any help from the agency since the initiative was launched. Mrs Forbes-Smith issued a plea for applicants to have their necessary paperwork
in order to speed up the process. She told this newspaper: “By June 30, we want to be able to complete the work of the 2,645 homeowners. We want everyone to come in and get their purchase orders so that’s what we would like to see happen.” As a temporary housing solution, the National Emergency Management Agency budgeted $6.4m for temporary domes, with an estimated $4m committed to cost. Speaking about the project, the DRA managing director said: “The domes were a part of the family relief centre, a project that was started by NEMA. The only thing that the DRA is doing is we are completing the erection and installation of the 209 domes for the benefit of the people of Abaco and Grand Bahama. “The total amount of domes was about 209, I think; 169 is all of them are currently all over Abaco
and an additional 40 will be erected in East Grand Bahama. That’s it. There are no more domes. We are just completing what was started.” She also said the work of the DRA on storm impacted islands will continue, adding that its operations have not been impacted by the new appointment of Iram Lewis, former Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. “The way the authority works is we have a board and we have a chairman and so really, if you refer to the Act of the DRA, you will see that full operation of the authority really is guided by the chairman and the board of directors, so nothing has changed in that regard, “ she said. A comprehensive report detailing the agency’s full expenditure has been completed and will be ready next week.
JOHNSON WARNING ON EMAIL FRAUDS from page one
“It has come to my attention that fraudulent messages from someone purporting to be me, with the name ‘Elsworth Johnson MP’, have been forwarded to a number of Bahamians,” Mr Johnson said in a statement. “These emails claim that businesses/brands have gained access to an international grant and that a ‘payment fee’ will be required to access this grant. I wish to warn Bahamians that these messages are fake and likely an attempt to trick citizens into paying the ‘access fee’. If you have received this message, I advise that you do not respond to it. “Under no circumstances should you provide any personal information. Further, you should not pay any fees related to the content of the message.”
YOUR
ELSWORTH Johnson in Parliament. Photo: Donovan McIntosh/Tribune Staff He said he will update the public about the police’s investigation into the matter. “Bahamians should
remain vigilant and report any suspicious messages to the relevant authorities,” he added.
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THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, February 25, 2021, PAGE 5
Mentor said ‘notorious hitman’ promised to make things right By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net GRAND Bahama Educator and Youth Mentor Darrin Rolle said the young man killed in Freeport on Sunday promised him when they recently spoke “to make things right”. He said he was known as a “notorious hitman”. While speaking to the Rotary Club of Sunrise on Wednesday on the topic of Conflict Resolution, Mr Rolle, made brief reference to the victim whom he had spoken with back in January. “It happens that about three or four days ago probably one of the most notorious individuals known for either being aggressive or being known as a hitman happened to have been killed, and the topic we are dealing with this morning is Conflict Resolution.” “And all of us, being
OMAR Penn pictured on video moments before he was shot dead. honest, at some point you On Sunday, a gunman had to deal with this and shot and killed Omar this will always be one thing “Punch” Penn outside we are going to face as a Island Luck web shop on society.” East Sunrise Highway.
Video footage of the shooting obtained by police from the web stop’s surveillance cameras went viral on social media. Police are launching an investigation into the unauthorized release of the footage. Mr Rolle, who is also a local pastor, said he ran into Penn about a month earlier before his death. “The young man that got killed this week, the first or second week in January I saw him and I said two or three little things to him, and he said, ‘yeah, I am going to get this right.’ I don’t know how he could ever get it right because there were always people looking for him for whatever reason.” Mr Rolle is a well-known coach, educator and youth mentor in Grand Bahama who has currently established a Chance community centre for young men. He is co-founder and director of the Falcon’s Boys Club at Tabernacle
Baptist Academy. He noted that conflict is a normal part of life. “Conflict will always be there, it is how we handle them that will cause them to subside.” Mr Rolle stated that when conflict resolution is managed it can develop the greatest relationship between two individuals that were at odds with each other. “When handled respectfully and positively, then conflict provides an opportunity to strengthen the bond between two people,” he explained. On the other hand, conflicts that are not managed can cause great harm to a relationship, he said. He believes it is important that parents allow their children to experience conflict resolution when there are disagreements in the home. “Those of us who are parents, we are afraid to allow our children to see us have conflict and that’s fine, but after they have seen you
have conflict, wouldn’t it also be nice to see you make up because society we are in we are going to have conflict. Conflict is inevitable because there will always be disagreements between parties over values, emotions, perception, ideas or desires. The educator said that conflicts can escalate into fights and rows, which are frequently posted on social media. “When there is conflict, it should be dealt with between the two individuals who have the conflict before you get someone else involved. Conflicts must not fester or be ignored,” Mr Rolle said that conflict is also an opportunity for personal growth. He shared with Rotarians The Thomas-Kilman Model which identifies five strategies for conflict resolution. Mr Rolle believes that according to the Bible love is the most effective thing when resolving conflict.
‘I DON’T BELIEVE POLICE VERSION OF SHOOTING’ from page one
police checkpoint at a high rate of speed. “The officers beckoned the driver to stop with the use of the police beacon lights and siren,” a police crime report noted. “The vehicle eventually came to a stop in the vicinity of Cordeaux Avenue and East Street. As the officers approached the vehicle, a male driver exited the vehicle armed with a weapon. The officers produced their service weapon and engaged the suspect, fatally wounding him.” However, the 31-yearold’s sister told The Tribune “we do not believe what they are saying”. The sister pointed to videos surfacing online of what appears to be the aftermath of the scene. One video shows bullet holes in a nearby building, blood on the pavement and a bullet riddled vehicle. Another video shows Laroda lying on the ground outside his car. “Take a look at the videos. My brother’s car glass was up... his vehicle was riddled with bullets,” she said. Her family is emotionally
BULLET holes in the window of the car. Photo: Donovan McIntosh/Tribune Staff found ways to be a menace distraught, she said. In March 2019, Laroda in his life,” she added. “They always had this was charged with attempting to murder two police saying, anything that went officers with a high pow- down they coming in Pineered semi-automatic wood ... but for the way weapon. Two years earlier, (they shot) him last night in he was charged with several cold blood and try to paint offences including con- this picture of him having a spiracy to commit murder gun? Pure BS.” At the scene, police could and being a member of an not say if Laroda opened unlawful gang. He also faced gun charges fire at officers before he was shot. However, they in 2014. However, his sister said a weapon was found believes he was being “har- on the deceased. Three assed” by police. As for officers were involved in the charges he faced, she the incident, however, it is claimed “nothing ever held unclear if they all fired at the deceased. One officer up in court”. “For years now my was wearing a body cam, brother has done what he according to police. The incident will head can to stay out of (their) maliciousness, even though to Coroner’s Court for an staying out the way they investigation.
RASHAD LARODA
ROTARY HAILS BRAVERY OF WOMEN WHO ACCUSED NYGARD By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net TEN women who came forward to allege they were part of Peter Nygard’s alleged international sex trafficking ring were recognised yesterday for their “incredible bravery in the face of unimaginable odds” during a ceremony hosted by the Rotary Action Group Against Slavery (RAGAS). The honoured women – from The Bahamas and America — were the first to come forward and expose Nygard’s alleged crimes. They were presented the RAGAS’ Hero Award for Outstanding Courage, becoming the first recipients to ever receive such an award from the organisation. “Today is about the survivors,” RAGAS global chairman Dave McCleary said at yesterday’s virtual event. “It’s about the ten women that we’re honouring today because your courage is absolutely incredible and the award is the first courageous women award that we’ve given from Rotary Action and we will do this annually in your honour but this is to celebrate your incredible bravery in the face of unimaginable odds, being the inaugural recipients of this award for the action group against slavery and hero award for outstanding courage.
“This is a global award and… I just want you to know that we as a community, as an organisation as an action group in Rotary, care about you and care about what you have done to make this a better world. You inspired other survivors to come forward and that’s what’s so amazing about what you did. You’re not only changing your life, but you are changing so many others and your ripple effect will go on for generations to come.’ Rotary Clubs of the Bahamas West Assistant
Governor Carla-Card Stubbs also described yesterday’s event as a “proud day”. She said it signifies the importance of being the agents of change and bringing awareness to issues that are plaguing nations worldwide. She said: “One may wonder why Rotary would get involved in this? … But this is not about unproven accusations. This is about honouring those brave enough to speak. What this experience has taught us is that this happens all around us. This might be happening
to persons we know and this is a challenge to help. This is about a recognition that we each have the obligation to help those who cannot help themselves and those who find it difficult to come forward and to get help.” According to an indictment filed by the Southern District of New York last December, Nygard allegedly participated in a “decades-long pattern of criminal conduct involving at least dozens of victims in the United States, The Bahamas and Canada, among other locations.”
He has been charged with one count of racketeering, one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, three counts of sex trafficking of a minor and by force, fraud or coercion, one count of transportation of a minor for purpose of prostitution, two counts of transportation for purpose of prostitution and one count of transportation for purpose of prostitution and illegal sexual activity. The assertions in the indictment largely mirror the allegations in a class-action lawsuit filed against Nygard in New York earlier in 2020.
Recipient Richette Ross, who has since identified herself as one of Nygard’s alleged victims, said: “First and foremost, I would like to give God thanks. I would also like to say thank you to the Rotary…and everybody who made this possible today for not only supporting us, but also giving us a voice. “We are more than the voice in the darkness. We are more than just Jane Doe’s. We’re strong. We’re survivors. We’re conquerors and I just want to say thank you!”
PAGE 6, Thursday, February 25, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
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Say a prayer for former Prime Minister THERE comes a moment when political rivalries must be set aside – and the news that former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has COVID-19 is one such moment. Just as when PLP leader Philip “Brave” Davis contracted the virus, we hope that all sides unite to pray for a speedy recovery. It is another reminder, were it needed, that COVID-19 can affect anyone in our society. It plays no favourites. The good news is that Mr Ingraham’s doctors hope the worst is behind him. He remains in a critical care area in Doctors Hospital, but he is said to be “showing various signs of improvement and we fully expect him to improve and ultimately be discharged in a few days”. Mr Ingraham is now aged 73, and was admitted to hospital on Tuesday after his condition worsened, having been diagnosed last week. His age places him in a higher risk category – so it is good news that he is showing signs of recovery. We have heard often that the virus can affect anyone, rich or poor, in any part of society – and it has affected a number of top officials already. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has even had to enter quarantine – which shows that even with the abundance of precautions taken for our leadership, this virus can find a way. So whatever the colour of your political allegiance – whether your campaign shirt is red or yellow or green, we hope you will say a prayer for Mr Ingraham’s recovery. He is not the only one battling this virus – with former Health Minister Dr Duane Sands revealing last night that three people are in intensive care. Spare a prayer for each of those too – and long for the day when we can all put this virus behind us.
Answers over shootings
At the end of last year in this column, we talked about the need for clarity over
police shootings. It is sad to report that we must return to the topic again after the fatal shooting of Rashad Laroda on Tuesday night. The police reported from the scene to give their view of events – and the sister of Mr Laroda has now questioned that version. She said: “My brother was on his way home to his family not doing anything – they killed him for nothing.” Mr Laroda has a history of court cases – which of course does not mean he was doing anything wrong on Tuesday – but his sister said that “nothing ever held up in court”. One of those charges saw Mr Laroda accused of attempting to murder two police officers. An officer in Tuesday’s shooting was wearing a body cam, it is reported, and police on the scene suggested that might be made available. We would expect that it should, to clarify events. The crucial thing that police said on the scene is that the coroner was called and would handle the investigation – and more than clarity, action is needed even more. Inquests appear to have stalled in the past year with the court slowdown because of COVID-19, and it is hugely important that such cases get back underway. Without answers, suspicions linger. There have been a considerable number of police shootings – and each may be justified. In calling in the coroner and ensuring body cam footage is reviewed, police are taking the right steps in the aftermath of the shooting – but that next step, the coroner’s investigation and any subsequent court proceedings, is where the system has come to a stop right now. An old legal maxim is that justice delayed is justice denied, but it is worse than that. It denies justice to family members seeking answers – and it also undermines faith in the police as long as suspicion lingers. These matters need to be resolved – for all our sakes.
Readers give views online READERS have been posting their reactions to the stories making the news on tribune242.com. • After Cabinet ministers dismissed speculation that the Minnis administration is “falling apart” following Lanisha Rolle’s resignation, Birdiestrachan said: “He is correct, the FNM Government is not falling apart. It has fallen apart. it is done. The house that Roc Wit Doc built has broken down all around them. It is over.” Cobalt responded with this: “Spoken like a staunch PLP. Anyone with sense realises that the FNM is a party where personal accountability reigns. Unlike the PLP, the FNM does not tolerate corruption. Every cabinet minister and MP knows that if you are caught in a scandal, you’re gone! Cant say the same for the scandal ridden PLP who turns a blind eye to corrupt ministers. Fools call it ‘falling apart’. Those with sense call it ‘weeding out the corruptible’.” • PLP leader Philip “Brave” Davis said he is willing to participate in a national televised debate with Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. Bahamianson had this response: “No debate. Roll out, do it like we always did, or become like America. We are not Americans but Bahamians. We do it our way.” Moncurcool said: “Tell Davis stop that nonsense. Where was his debate talk
when Branville was challenging Christie to have a debate before the 2017 election? I didn’t hear a peep from him. Please stop with the political stupidity. The silly season is really starting too early. Another reason for a FIXED election date to keep all this silliness from starting too soon.” • Gowon Bowe said the Bahamian taxation “system is broke” and in dire need of “comprehensive reform” to develop a suitable framework for the next 50 years. Proudloudand said: “If they do income tax we need to go on a general strike! We cannot and must not allow it. They work for us. There is no need to drown a country of less than 400,000 in taxes just to pay useless government staff salaries! No more taxes! We must demand LESS TAXES!!!! This is getting ridiculous...” There was this from Proguing: “The only thing broken is tax collection and adding more taxes is not going to fix it. Why are all these new tax articles coming out now? This looks like a coordinated effort by a handful of individuals to shove down the throat of Bahamians even more taxes.”
And Tribanon said: “Someone please tell Mr Bowe that what we desperately need is Government reform, not tax reform. Without the former, the latter is meaningless. We were told VAT would be used to replace Customs duties and help pay down, not slow down the growth of, our national debt. Well that certainly did not happen. What we got instead was an even higher VAT rate and an even more bloated government along with greater than ever waste, fraud and corruption at all levels of the public sector, from our elected officials right on down. “Our country has been taken down by systemic corruption. It’s accepted, rewarded and culturally ingrained throughout most of the public sector and among most of our elected officials. More taxes is definitely not the answer. We urgently need Government reform. But instead Minnis seems quite content to standby and wait for the IMF to instigate and impose on us the most severe and draconian austerity measures imaginable. That’s what I call failed leadership!” Readers have also been voting in The Tribune’s online poll asking if they would like to see a televised debate for the next election. At the time of going to press, 90 percent of those voting said they would indeed like to see a debate.
Follow the rules and avoid deaths EDITOR, The Tribune. I SEE that government publishes a regular report on the number of Covid19 cases throughout the 15 islands of the Bahamas. At last count I understand that there was a total of 8496 cases spread throughout the islands with New Providence having the largest number - 6139. Then I heard the shattering news that as of this writing 500,000 persons had died of COVID in the US, and reflected that an infection of that magnitude could remove our entire population, estimated at 392,244 souls,
be closed — is completely irresponsible. No one has answers — whatever we do is better, if letters@tribunemedia.net only to protect our own life, from the face of this to follow the rules. Yes, the rules are inconearth. Despite this, we have venient, but so is a funeral. the light-headed jeering And there is no one to because the rules of lock blame because no one has down, social distancing, the answers. The best that can be said etc, are being constantly changed - especially annoy- is that until this pandemic ing being the curfew runs its course, we should be taking all safety precauand the lockdown. There is no way that one tions, not only for our own looks at it can anyone be well being, but also for certain that a sure cure can our family, friends and our be found, but the cavalier Bahamas. flouting of the basic rules COMMON SENSE — no masks, sneaking out Nassau, after curfew for drinks with February 22,2021 friends in a bar that should
LETTERS
Recalcitrant lawyers EDITOR, The Tribune. MANY years ago, I was disbarred for a gross act of malfeasance – commingling a client’s funds with my own. This is what lawyers call it but it is pure and simple the unauthorised use of a client’s money. In the real world it is called stealing, but not with the intent to deprive the client permanently of his/her funds. Lawyers do this as a matter of routine, especially when there is a slow down in the economy. I am talking about lawyers across the board, regardless of race; colour or creed. Since the arrival of the pandemic and the off/on shuttering of the economy I have received complaints from numerous members of the public about the possibility of their lawyers actually receiving insurance settlements and the proceeds from assorted
real estate transactions but refusing/failing to turn the same over to clients. The usual excuses are that the cheque is in the mail’ or that a timely court/trial date is unobtainable due to the virus. All plausible, but outright lies and fraudulent attempts to deprive clients’ of what is due to them. One such person who would have consulted with me recently informed me that almost five years ago she consulted with and retained a lawyer for several thousands of dollars to follow up on an industrial accident situation that was as clear cut as day. The ceiling titles at a local well known service station broke loose and fell on to her head and upper body causing serious and lingering injuries. Five years later, the client is having difficulties in hearing from her lawyer and she still has yet to see
any sort of correspondence on pleadings to verify the status, if any, of her matter. Allegedly when she approaches the lawyer she is told that the lawyer is out of office; in court or at home recuperating from assorted personal injuries. The Bahamas Bar Association is tasked with policing and discipling recalcitrant lawyers. Does it, however, take its legislative mandate seriously, across the board or is it a regime where “kisses go by favour“ or it depends on who you know? I was a show boat as a lawyer and the powers that be at that time were determined to engineer my eventual disbarment. If you or someone whom you know may have been shafted by a licensed attorney they can contact me. ORTLAND H BODIE, Jr Nassau, February 24, 2021.
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, February 25, 2021, PAGE 7
Dominoes game ends in court By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A MAN who dislocated his neighbour’s shoulder after she cheated in a game of dominoes was yesterday ordered to compensate her for her injuries. Police said Carlos Collie
assaulted his neighbour shortly after 10.30pm on February 14. He admitted the offence during his hearing before Magistrate Samuel McKinney. The court was told that during the argument the accused punched his neighbour in the face
before throwing her to the ground. The prosecution said the woman required medical attention for the injuries she received. Collie was arrested a short time later. When he was questioned by officers while in police custody, he admitted punching his neighbour, but
said he only did so after she poked him. During the hearing, Collie also said he and his neighbour had “gotten into a little altercation while playing dominoes”. He claimed the woman started to cheat during the game so he “ran hot” and threw the dominoes off
NEW DIRECTORS CHOSEN FOR BAHAMAS FAMILY PLANNING LAST fall, at its annual general meeting, the Bahamas Sexual Health and Rights Association (BaSHRA), also known as Bahamas Family Planning, elected a new slate of directors. Newly appointed president and community empowerment advocate, Philadenrin Russell, outlined steps the organisation would take to advance the aims of the charity, which includes assisting at-risk adolescents, by providing comprehensive sexuality education, among other things. “We must agree to work together to meet our mission which is to improve the quality of life for Bahamians by promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights, especially among girls and young women,” Ms Russell said. She presented the organisation’s 2021 Work Plan, which includes measures such as providing training to youth leaders and health and family life teachers. BaSHRA believes that all Bahamian youth, as part of their right to education, should receive quality, comprehensive sexuality education that teaches concrete skills to prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, avoid unwanted pregnancy, and make informed and empowered decisions. “It is my desire that we take a leading role in sexual and reproductive health in The Bahamas, by reengaging in research, education and strengthening partnerships, with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Social Services and Community Development, churches, schools and
A 32-YEAR-OLD man who claimed he slapped a little boy because he called him a “sissy” and threw a bottle at him was yesterday fined $150. Police arrested Derenzo Rolle after the six-year-old child’s mother reported the incident to police on February 17. He pleaded guilty to one count of assault when he appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney. The court was told that the child went home to his mother crying and told
WOMAN IS QUIZZED OVER STABBING DEATH By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
POLICE are questioning a woman in connection with the stabbing to death of another woman, according to police press liaison officer Superintendent Audley Peters. “She’s a suspect. She’s in for questioning. Until we get all the facts, we can’t make a comment as to whether she’ll be arraigned,” ASP
By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
other civic organisations who are involved in helping our youth to make healthy decisions that they would not later regret,” Ms Russell said. She recommitted the charity to working with regional partners, including the Caribbean Family Planning Affiliation (CFPA) and the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF). Founded in 1984 by Dr Sandra Dean-Patterson, the late Dr Bernard Nottage, and other sexual and reproductive health advocates, BaSHRA is the only non-governmental, non-profit organisation
that has provided family planning services in The Bahamas. BaSHRA continues to champion the health of Bahamians by offering family planning and sexual health counselling, seminars and workshops in sexual and reproductive health, family planning, and STI, including HIV and AIDS. BaSHRA is part of an umbrella organisation known as the Caribbean Family Planning Affiliation Ltd (CFPA), which is the only regional nongovernmental organisation devoted to family planning and sexual and reproductive health.
her that Rolle had taken his bicycle. When the woman went outside to investigate, she saw the accused riding her six-year-old’s bike along the road. While she was speaking to him, her son picked up a bottle and threw it at Rolle. The prosecution said the accused then slapped the boy which prompted his mother to request police action. Rolle was subsequently arrested. When he was interviewed by police at a nearby station, he admitted pushing the child during the argument, but denied slapping him. Yesterday, Rolle told the magistrate the incident
only took place because the little boy cursed at him and called him a “sissy” while he was riding his bike along the road. He claimed after the child threatened to gun-butt him, he decided to “tease” him, but the boy then picked up a bottle and threw it at his hand. After listening to his explanation, Magistrate McKinney ordered Rolle to pay $150 to compensate for the distress he caused the young boy. Rolle was also ordered to keep the peace for six months. Magistrate McKinney warned him that if he failed to do so, he would be sentenced to a month behind bars.
MAN WHO REFUSED TO PUT OUT FIRE IS BOUND TO KEEP THE PEACE By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A MAN who refused to extinguish an open fire he started after being instructed to do so by police officers was yesterday bound to keep the peace for six months. Diontay Johnson, 23, was charged with disorderly behaviour after he started arguing with an officer who told him to put out a small fire he had lighted in his yard on February 18. The court was told officers were on mobile patrol in the Andros Avenue area
alleged provocation was not proportionate to the force he claimed was used against him. As a result, he told the accused he needed to learn how to exercise greater temperance and caution and ordered him to compensate his neighbour $400 for her injuries.
Peters said. “At this time, she’s the only person in custody.” According to initial reports from police, shortly after 11pm on Saturday officers were called to a stabbing incident that occurred on West Bay Street. Police were told that two women were in a parking lot when they started to argue. This resulted in one of them being stabbed several times in the back.
INDECENT ASSAULT SUSPECT DENIED BAIL
MAN GIVEN $150 FINE FOR SLAPPING SIX-YEAR-OLD BOY By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
the table. Collie said when he got up to walk away, the complainant followed him and started to poke him. He said her actions provoked him and he fought her in the heat of the moment. In response, Magistrate McKinney noted the way Collie retaliated to the
when they noticed Johnson putting leaves on an open fire in his yard. Using the patrol car’s microphone, they then instructed Johnson to extinguish the blaze. However, when they returned to the area about 20 minutes later, they noticed a cloud of smoke was still emanating from Johnson’s yard. One of the officers then approached Johnson and asked him to put out the fire. In response, Johnson flung up his hands and stated: “These (N-word) only come here to bother me.” He was warned to cease his hostile behaviour, but
continued to act in a disorderly manner. As a result, he was arrested and charged. During the hearing, Johnson said he only reacted aggressively because he was “going through a lot of stuff” when officers approached him that night. He also said he did not realise it was an offence to light a small fire in his own yard. After Johnson pleaded guilty to acting disorderly, he was bound over to keep the peace for six months. If he fails to comply with the conditions of his release, he could risk spending one month behind bars.
For more information or to become a member, contact the Association at email communications. bashra@gmail.com or telephone at 242-805-5043.
A 40-YEAR-OLD man was remanded to prison accused of indecently assaulting a woman earlier this month. Joe Stubbs appeared before Magistrate Samuel McKinney after he was accused of committing the act against a 30-year-old woman on February 11. The prosecution alleged that the accused also harmed the victim that same day. Yesterday, Stubbs was not required to enter a plea and his case was adjourned to April 23 for service of a
voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). Due to the nature of the first charge, he was denied bail and remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until that time. Stubbs has a right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail.
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PAGE 8, Thursday, February 25, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
Why sit on it for a year? from page one November 2018 to perform the audit and the audit is dated January 2020. Englerston MP Glenys Hanna Martin criticised the timing of the audit’s release yesterday, noting it comes on the heels of revelations that a Ministry of Finance internal audit made findings that led to the resignation of Seabreeze MP Lanisha Rolle as Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture. She said: “If your entire political platform has been founded upon some notion that you are accountable and you are transparent and you believe in integrity in high office and all these things that they express all over the place, but you had an audit report that is a matter of important public interest but you decided you would sit on it based on the date of that report, January 20, 2020, without bringing it to the public’s attention and would seek today of all days in the midst of allegations that there is an audit that is current, that is relevant and that is germane to this administration, that you would instead seek to, in my view, deflect by going back to a report in 2013, it’s disingenuous and really the motives are suspect and really undermines any claim that they represent any of these high ideals that they championed during the campaign.” She added: “It is also a blatant effort in my view to manipulate the public and the electorate and it’s not fair, it’s really disrespectful. If the government thought it was relevant and relates to public funds, then why would you sit on it for a year? Are you seeking an appropriate moment to make it politically sexy? I have a problem with this, it’s most disingenuous.” The audit notes that a Memorandum of
BRENSIL Rolle and Glenys Hanna Martin in Parliament yesterday. Understanding was signed exceeded the approved between NIB and the programme budget by Ministry of Housing in $2,753,045.” “Status reports that are December 2013 as $10.8m was advanced for the hous- the responsibility of the fund administrator were not ing project. BDO has ultimately con- provided on a timely basis cluded that the Ministry of and did not include pertiEnvironment and Housing nent information regarding “ignored its fiduciary and the use of the programme contractual responsibilities budget,” BDO said. “The construction in administering the programme” and “incurred contracts were not comcontractual obligations that petitively bid and were
unilaterally assigned to preferred contractors. “Covenants of the Memorandum of Understanding which should have governed the conduct of the loan were not implemented or followed.” Auditors said there was “a significant lack of internal controls and a material weakness in the change order approval and review process.
Photos: Donovan McIntosh/Tribune Staff “There is little or no analysis of the contractor’s documentation support- costs and entitlement are ing MOEH’s (Ministry of almost always missing). Environment and Hous“The MOEH has no writing) evaluation for change ten policies and procedures orders. for contract procurement, “Contract document contract management and control is inadequate, and contract administration. the files are incomplete (eg “There is a lack of segcontracts, payment applica- regation of duties between tions and attachments are employees involved with often missing, change order the procurement, manrequests and documents agement, and contract evidencing the MOEH’s administration processes.”
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, February 25, 2021, PAGE 9
Keep your world big and open! A BELOVED late mentor often advised and enthused: “Keep you world big!” He was referring to cultivating one’s mind and heart and having an expansive and open consciousness and spirit. The mentor encouraged that keeping one’s world big was also essential during difficult or painful times when the world seemed to be closing in, getting narrower, more claustrophobic, less beautiful and joyful. While occasional solitude is necessary, self-isolation or being disconnected from wellsprings of well-being typically steers us down unhealthy emotional pathways, navel-gazing, self-pity, increased anxiety, self-absorption and sometimes breaks with reality and perspective. We are social beings, our social networks as essential for work life, as the work of life, including building and sustaining healthy lives and relationships. After a laughter-filled chat by telephone with a good friend the other night, made even more exuberant by the telling of a bawdy joke about Catholic and Anglican priests and a Baptist minister, we both felt a little lighter and a little less stressed. She sent a note the next morning which read: “It was so good to chat with you last night. Being able to laugh and talk with special friends is indeed a special blessing, especially in these difficult times, and we thank God for it.” More than ever, this is the time for friendship, which offers us greater perspective and encouragement. Isolation can deaden our spirits and sometimes leads to suicidal and self-harming mindsets. There is an ineffable paradox about our nature: we need social life and sustenance in order to better see ourselves through the more open eyes of others who can see or know parts of us better than we can ourselves. We need others to liberate us from our worst selves and to encourage our better selves. Good relationships are as vital as the air we breathe. Indeed, friends often help us when we are sometimes gasping for breath spiritually, mentally and emotionally.
EXACERBATED
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated poor mental health and led to greater isolation. It has induced a broad variety of mental health challenges and lack of well-being. Tending to one’s mental well-being and health is akin to pruning and caring by gardener cultivating positive practices and habits likes an enjoyable hobby or pastime. An overgrown or uncultivated garden or orchard overcome and crawling with weeds, nettlesome nettles and bugs is like an unsettled mind overgrown with mental vermin and cobwebs, poorly functioning, unproductive, stymied from creativity and fruitfulness,
incapable of imagining news ways of being and belonging. Just as there is a range of physical illnesses from the common cold to stage four cancer, there are as wide a spectrum of mental health matters, personality disorders, psychological dysfunction, and the plethora of addictions, which affect most humans in some form or another. During COVID-19 there has been an uptick in challenges such as depression, greater anxiety, panic attacks, acute loneliness and increased stress. During stressful times in an individual’s life or the life of a community, even the smallest tasks and added stresses, like dealing with a commercial bank, standing in traffic, buying groceries, calling the cable company about why a certain channel is off for the umpteenth time this month and other daily chores, often snowball until we snap in some fashion or become snappish. Over the course of the pandemic, with tens of thousands needing food, unemployment, social and other assistance, the level of stress in the country has mushroomed. Many of us are more irritable, less patient, easily angered, experiencing poor sleep, eating more junk food, exercising less and more prone to lashing out. The inability to move around more freely, to get on an airplane to a Family Island or overseas has made us even more isolated and stir-crazy. A good friend recently thumped: “If I could do it safely, I would jump on a plane right now, get off this island and head to New York City where nobody knows me!” Many are literally sick and tired because of the pandemic, including those who have had the virus and those who have not attended to other physical and mental health needs over the past year. The US Center for Disease Control (CDC) advises: “Public health actions, such as social distancing, are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but they can make us feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. “Stress can cause the following: • Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, numbness, or frustration • Changes in appetite, energy, desires, and interests • Difficulty concentrating and making decisions • Difficulty sleeping or nightmares • Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes • Worsening of chronic health problems • Worsening of mental health conditions • Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, and other substances” The CDC also suggests ways of dealing with stress: “Take breaks from watching,
FUNDAMENTALIST
reading, or listening to news stories. … Take care of your body. … Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy… Connect with others.” Lent is a time in the Christian calendar for fasting from various habits, conceits, mindsets and indulgences. After a year of COVID-19, this Lent is an opportunity for greater mindfulness, conversion and renewed paths to holiness and health.
WASTELAND
A beloved relative has decided to give up watching too much American cable news. Likewise, abstaining from the toxic wasteland that is much of social media is another way of getting rid of the daily junk of memes and viciousness to which we are exposed. Lent is a time to examine the depth of the deadly sins of pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony and sloth, which are permanent boarders and habitués in our bodies and spirits. The deadly sins “are often thought to be abuses or excesses of natural faculties or passions. For example, gluttony abuses the natural hunger for nourishment.” Virtue is defined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church as “a habitual
and firm disposition to do the good.” Virtue ethics are not so much focused on right and wrong per se, but on the practices we should cultivate and foster to promote conversion and holiness. Lent is a holy time to mediate on and to practice the four cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, temperance and courage (or fortitude) along with the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity. The late Archbishop Lawrence Burke was often bewildered as to why many Bahamians seemed more transfixed or taken with Good Friday rather than the joy of Easter Sunday.
There is an element in our deeply fundamentalist culture which often seems more fixated on human sinfulness rather than Christian hope. There is also often a relentless nauseating negativity in our national culture. By example, there are those whose commentary or journalistic pieces cannot rise from the torpor and inebriation of being drunk and possessed with unremitting anger and a certain intellectual paralysis. For those who have been in dark places for years, the pandemic has plummeted some into greater darkness. Some, who are given to endless negativity, have become more feverishly negative. Easter, like Christmas, is a season of new light and hope. The Lenten journey, which includes honest and at times painful, though life-affirming examens of conscience and consciousness, of habits and patterns, of well-being, of joyfulness, and of good and ill-health spiritually and psychologically, is an opportunity to cultivate our spiritual gardens, often thick with fear and feelings of despair and hopelessness. Christopher Hale, a
US politician and Catholic non-profit executive, noted in a Lenten meditation in 2015: “According to [Pope] Francis, fasting must never become superficial. He often quotes the early Christian mystic John Chrysostom who said: “No act of virtue can be great if it is not followed by advantage for others. So, no matter how much time you spend fasting, no matter how much you sleep on a hard floor and eat ashes and sigh continually, if you do no good to others, you do nothing great.” Hale invites: “If you want to change your body, perhaps alcohol and candy is the way to go. But if you want to change your heart, a harder fast is needed. This narrow road is gritty, but it isn’t sterile. It will make room in ourselves to experience a love that can make us whole and set us free.” Fasting is not primarily about what we give up. Fasting is mostly about what we make space for in our lives. Space for the poor and neglected, space for deeper friendships and community, space for hope, space for love, space for a broader moral imagination, space for new habits of body, soul and mind. And space, for keeping one’s world – big! And open!
PAGE 10, Thursday, February 25, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
To Rush Limbaugh it was all so simple - most Americans just don’t like the Left and Democrats RUSH Limbaugh died last week. A defiant cigar smoker, he died at the age 70 from lung cancer. He was Donald Trump before Trump was Trump. This bombastic native Missourian became the king of American talk radio for more than 25 years. Often describing himself accurately as first and foremost an entertainer and master salesman, Limbaugh almost coincidentally also became A biographer once the belldescribed Limbaugh wether of the as “the Elvis Presley Ameriof broadcast radio. His can effect as an enforcer, Republican keeping Republican Party. politicians in line, was Politigreater than that of a cians like George President or the party’s H W national organisation”. Bush who despised Limbaugh’s outrageous misogyny and nativism nonetheless felt obliged to appear on his syndicated radio show and kiss his ring. You probably heard Limbaugh’s daily radio show at least once. It was unquestionably provocative and entertaining. Part of his appeal was to like-minded individuals who have become the core of Trump’s “30 percent base” of American voters. But it was also fun to IN this May 14, 2012 photo, Rush Limbaugh speaks during a ceremony inducting him into the Hall of Famous Missourians in the state Capitol in Jefferson City. Photo: Julie Smith/AP listen to this admitted Oxycollege degrees than public Republican Party, so it’s contin-addicted showman radio listeners. not a criticism. It’s not an even if you disagreed with Behind Limbaugh’s out- allegation. him. Masquerading as a landishness lay a canny “The point is that if conconservative as do so many intelligence. Here is his servatism were this widely contemporary Republilengthy explanation of the understood, deeply held cans, Limbaugh initially massive, enduring support belief system that united supported Texas Senator Trump still enjoys among conservatives and united Ted Cruz in 2016, attackmillions of voters: people as conservatives, ing Trump as “not “I think the best way to then outsiders like Trump conservative”. explain it is that there are wouldn’t stand a prayer But more recently, in the with Charlie Harper a lot of people in Amer- of getting support from manner of South Carolina Senator Lindsay Graham, kind of valedictory gift last Republican politicians in of opulence while trum- ica who are conservative. people. “Yet he is hugely popular. line, was greater than that peting his populist roots There are a lot of those Limbaugh became a golf- year. A biographer once of a President or the party’s and beliefs. It has been people that won’t admit it, Therefore, it’s safe to coning partner, social pal and estimated that Limbaugh for whatever reason, and clude that there are other Limbaugh national organisation”. vocal supporter of Trump, described Like Trump the owner of earned about $40 million a therefore they live and vote things at play here that who infamously awarded as “the Elvis Presley of Limbaugh the Presiden- broadcast radio. His effect a Palm Beach estate, Lim- year from his radio broad- and do things which are make people conservative. tial Medal of Freedom as a as an enforcer, keeping baugh lived quite the life casts. He boasted of more conservative, certainly not And look, I’m gonna go than 20 million daily listen- liberal. But that’s not the back to it. “The thing that’s in front ers at his peak in the 1990s glue that unites them all. “If conservatism were of everybody’s face and and 2000s, and his show was syndicated on 600 the glue, the belief and it’s apparently so hard to radio stations across the understanding of deep but believe, it’s this united, virucommonly understood con- lent opposition to the left nation. It has always been easy servative principles, if that’s and the Democrat Party for those who disagreed what defined people as con- and Barack Obama. And with Limbaugh to also servative and was the glue I, for the life of me, don’t criticize his fans. But the that made the conservative know what’s so hard to respected Pew Research movement a big movement, understand about that.” There could be uncomCentre concluded several then Trump would have no fortable truth in the stark years ago that Limbaugh chance. “He literally would have simplicity of Limbaugh’s listeners were actually better informed overall on no chance. Because, what- explanation. The millions of current events than fans of ever he is, he’s not and Democrats and IndependNational Public Radio. And never has been known as ents who remain vexed at his fans were also found a doctrinaire conservative. Trump’s appeal might take to be more likely to have Neither is 90 percent of the note.
STATESIDE
A WAYWARD DRIVE COSTS TIGER DEAR THE prevailing winds in the Los Angeles area are mostly offshore westerlies, so flights into Los Angeles International Airport approach from the east along the intensely populated San Bernardino Valley. Departing flights take off from seaside LAX out over the Pacific Ocean for a few minutes and then bank sharply to the left to adjust to an easterly course. Almost immediately, a massive wooded shoulder of land appears below. This is the Palos Verdes Peninsula, home to some of the wealthiest and yet most discrete communities in the Golden State of California. Everyone has heard of Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Many are familiar with other West LA neighbourhoods like Brentwood and Westwood. Fewer know Palos Verdes Estates. But it certainly well known to the locals. Located south of downtown and the airport, this huge headland is home to several communities
with hundreds of wooded, expensive homes. It was on a hilly downhill stretch of Hawthorne Boulevard on the border of Rancho Palos Verdes and Rolling Hills Estates that Tiger Woods crashed a Genesis SUV on Tuesday. (Genesis is Hyundai’s luxury brand.) Woods suffered massive leg injuries and “is lucky to be alive,” according to a policeman who was among the first to arrive at the scene. The news flashed across the world. Tiger fans from Jack Nicklaus to Donald Trump immediately offered sympathetic reactions. The collective global gasp was reminiscent of other Los Angeles sports-related datelined stories like the helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant, his daughter and others in 2020 and the revelation in 1991 that fellow Laker legend Magic Johnson was HIV-positive. This is different. Tiger Woods, global superstar, is also one of us. His financial
interest in Albany and sponsorship of golf tournaments in Nassau link him to us and us to him. This 45-year-old, who transformed golf and added many millions of fans for the game in 1997 when he won his first Masters at the age of 21, has dominated golf since then. The spike in television viewership when Tiger competes in a tournament is well documented. When he leads on the last day of a tourney, golf becomes must-watch TV. We can only wish this man well. He’s had his share of troubles, some selfinflicted, over the course of his storied career. He has also endured five back surgeries, the most recent just a couple of months ago, and numerous procedures on his legs. Now he faces more surgery, and more rehab. Hopefully Tiger’s steely will and unmatched determination will again carry him through, and we will see him again here soon.
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, February 25, 2021, PAGE 11
WHO’S MISSION
TO COVID
‘GROUND
ZERO’
A FLASHBACK to January last year as a militia member uses an thermometer gun to take a driver’s temperature at a checkpoint at a highway toll gate in Wuhan. China closed off a city of more than 11 million people in an unprecedented effort to try to contain the new COVID-19 virus. Photo: Chinatopix via AP By DOMINIC DWYER Director of Public Health Pathology, New South Wales, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney AS I write, I am in hotel quarantine in Sydney, after returning from Wuhan, China. There, I was the Australian representative on the international World Health Organization’s (WHO) investigation into the origins of the SARSCoV-2 virus. Much has been said of the politics surrounding the mission to investigate the viral origins of COVID-19. So it’s easy to forget that behind these investigations are real people. As part of the mission, we met the man who, on December 8, 2019, was the first confirmed COVID-19 case; he’s since recovered. We met the husband of a doctor who died of COVID19 and left behind a young child. We met the doctors who worked in the Wuhan hospitals treating those early COVID-19 cases, and learned what happened to them and their colleagues. We witnessed the impact of COVID-19 on many individuals and communities, affected so early in the pandemic, when we didn’t know much about the virus, how it spreads, how to treat COVID-19, or its impacts. We talked to our Chinese counterparts — scientists, epidemiologists, doctors — over the four weeks the WHO mission was in China. We were in meetings with them for up to 15 hours a day, so we became colleagues, even friends. This allowed us to build respect and trust in a way you couldn’t necessarily do via Zoom or email. This is what we learned about the origins of SARS-CoV-2. Animal origins, but not necessarily at the Wuhan markets It was in Wuhan, in central China, that the virus, now called SARS-CoV-2, emerged in December 2019, unleashing the greatest infectious disease outbreak since the 1918-19 influenza pandemic. Our investigations concluded the virus was most likely of animal origin. It probably crossed over to humans from bats, via an as-yet-unknown intermediary animal, at an unknown location. Such “zoonotic” diseases have triggered pandemics before. But we are still working to confirm the exact chain of events that led to the current pandemic. Sampling of bats in Hubei province and wildlife across China has revealed no SARS-CoV-2 to date. We visited the nowclosed Wuhan wet market which, in the early days of the pandemic, was blamed as the source of the virus. Some stalls at the market sold “domesticated” wildlife products. These are animals raised for food,
such as bamboo rats, civets and ferret badgers. There is also evidence some domesticated wildlife may be susceptible to SARSCoV-2. However, none of the animal products sampled after the market’s closure tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. We also know not all of those first 174 early COVID-19 cases visited the market, including the man who was diagnosed in December 2019 with the earliest onset date. However, when we visited the closed market, it’s easy to see how an infection might have spread there. When it was open, there would have been around 10,000 people visiting a day, in close proximity, with poor ventilation and drainage. There’s also genetic evidence generated during the mission for a transmission cluster there. Viral sequences from several of the market cases were identical, suggesting a transmission cluster. However, there was some diversity in other viral sequences, implying other unknown or unsampled chains of transmission. A summary of modelling studies of the time to the most recent common ancestor of SARS-CoV-2 sequences estimated the start of the pandemic between mid-November and early December. There are also publications suggesting SARS-CoV-2 circulation in various countries earlier than the first case in Wuhan, although these require confirmation. The market in Wuhan, in the end, was more of an amplifying event rather than necessarily a true ground zero. So we need to look elsewhere for the viral origins. Frozen or refrigerated food not ruled out in the spread Then there was the “cold chain” hypothesis. This is the idea the virus might have originated from elsewhere via the farming, catching, processing, transporting, refrigeration or freezing of food. Was that food ice cream, fish, wildlife meat? We don’t know. It’s unproven that this triggered the origin of the virus itself. But to what extent did it contribute to its spread? Again, we don’t know. Several “cold chain” products present in the Wuhan market were not tested for the virus. Environmental sampling in the market showed viral surface contamination. This may indicate the introduction of SARS-CoV-2 through infected people, or contaminated animal products and “cold chain” products. Investigation of “cold chain” products and virus survival at low temperatures is still underway. Extremely unlikely the virus escaped from a lab The most politically sensitive option we looked at was the virus escaping from a laboratory. We concluded
this was extremely unlikely. We visited the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which is an impressive research facility, and looks to be run well, with due regard to staff health. We spoke to the scientists there. We heard that scientists’ blood samples, which are routinely taken and stored, were tested for signs they had been infected. No evidence of antibodies to the coronavirus was found. We looked at their biosecurity audits. No evidence. We looked at the closest virus to SARS-CoV-2 they were working on — the virus RaTG13 — which had been detected in caves in southern China where some miners had died seven years previously. But all the scientists had was a genetic sequence for this virus. They hadn’t managed to grow it in culture. While viruses certainly do escape from laboratories, this is rare. So, we concluded it was extremely unlikely this had happened in Wuhan. A team of investigators When I say “we”, the mission was a joint exercise between the WHO and the Chinese health commission. In all, there were 17 Chinese and ten international experts, plus seven other experts and support staff from various agencies. We looked at the clinical epidemiology (how COVID-19 spread among people), the molecular epidemiology (the genetic makeup of the virus and its spread), and the role of animals and the environment. The clinical epidemiology group alone looked at China’s records of 76,000 episodes from more than 200 institutions of anything that could have resembled COVID-19 — such as influenza-like illnesses, pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses. They found no clear evidence of substantial circulation of COVID-19 in Wuhan during the latter part of 2019 before the first case. Where to now? Our mission to China was only phase one. We are due to publish our official report in the coming weeks. Investigators will also look further afield for data, to investigate evidence the virus was circulating in Europe, for instance, earlier in 2019. Investigators will continue to test wildlife and other animals in the region for signs of the virus. And we’ll continue to learn from our experiences to improve how we investigate the next pandemic. Irrespective of the origins of the virus, individual people with the disease are at the beginning of the epidemiology data points, sequences and numbers. The long-term physical and psychological effects — the tragedy and anxiety — will be felt in Wuhan, and elsewhere, for decades to come. • Originally published on theconverstation.com
DOMINIC Dwyer of the World Health Organization team waves at journalists from a hotel room balcony in Wuhan on Friday, January 29, 2021. Photo: Ng Han Guan/AP
PAGE 12, Thursday, February 25, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
VIALS of the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine in the United States. Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose vaccine protects against COVID-19, according to an analysis by US regulators.
Single-dose J&J vaccine ‘offers strong protection’ WASHINGTON Associated Press JOHNSON & Johnson’s single-dose vaccine offers strong protection against severe COVID-19, according to an analysis released yesterday by US regulators that sets the stage for a final decision on a new and easier-to-use shot to help tame the pandemic. The long-anticipated shot could offer the nation a third vaccine option and help speed vaccinations by requiring just one dose instead of two. Food and Drug Administration scientists confirmed that overall the vaccine is about
66 percent effective at preventing moderate to severe COVID-19, and about 85 percent effective against the most serious illness. The agency also said J&J’s shot is safe. The analysis is just one step in the FDA’s evaluation. On Friday, the agency’s independent advisers will debate if the evidence is strong enough to recommend the shot. With that advice, the FDA is expected to make a final decision within days. The COVID-19 death toll in the US topped 500,000 this week, and the vaccination drive has been slower than hoped, hampered
by logistical and weather delays. So far, about 44.5 million Americans have received at least one dose of vaccine made by Pfizer or Moderna, and nearly 20 million of them have received the second dose required for full protection. Tests showed the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were 95 percent effective at protection against symptomatic COVID-19. Dr Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, is part of the FDA advisory panel that will scrutinise the J&J data tomorrow and cautions that none of the vaccines have been directly
compared. Still, he was encouraged that one dose of the J&J vaccine appears as good at preventing serious illness as its two-dose competitors. “This is a vaccine to prevent you from going to the hospital and dying at a level that’s certainly comparable” to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, he said. J&J tested its single-dose option in 44,000 adults in the US, Latin America and South Africa. Different mutated versions of the virus are circulating in different countries, and the FDA analysis cautioned that it’s not clear how well the vaccine works against
coronavirus cases have been recorded and some 515,000 people have died from it in the EU’s 27 countries, according to the European Centre for Disease Protection and Control. Italy, France, Germany and Spain have the most coronavirus deaths in the EU, although all trail non-EU member Britain, which has Europe’s highest virus death toll at over 121,000. Given the spread of the disease — the Czech prime minister is worried about “a total catastrophe” at overburdened hospitals, Germany fears the impact of new variants, the Netherlands is seeing a rise in cases — there should be little appetite to ease up on
travel and other restrictions too soon. “The epidemiological situation remains serious, and the new variants pose additional challenges. We must therefore uphold tight restrictions while stepping up efforts to accelerate the provision of vaccines,” the leaders will say, according to a draft summit statement seen by The Associated Press. But public pressure to relax measures is building. The Netherlands has eased some lockdown measures in what Prime Minister Mark Rutte called a calculated risk to make the year-long crisis “bearable.” Denmark just allowed high school students to partially return to classes.
HEALTHCARE workers move a COVID-19 patient to the Motol hospital in Prague, Czech Republic, in November. Photo: Petr David Josek/AP
EU VACCINE PROGRAMME STRUGGLES TO SPEED UP BRUSSELS Associated Press
TWO months after its first vaccine shots, the European Union is still struggling to get its COVID-19 inoculation drive up to speed. EU leaders are meeting today to jump-start the process, fearing that new virus variants might spread faster than Europe’s response. At a video conference, the leaders will look at ways to improve the bloc’s vaccine rollout, as the EU’s executive arm, the European Commission, presses pharmaceutical companies to respect the terms of their contracts. Officials also want to try to fast-track vaccine authorisations. More than 21 million
each variant. But J&J previously announced that the vaccine worked better in the US — 72 percent effective against moderate to severe COVID-19, compared with 66 percent in Latin America and 57 percent in South Africa. South Africa recently began giving the J&J vaccine to front-line health workers on a test basis after deciding that a vaccine from rival AstraZeneca had not shown strong enough study results against the particularly concerning variant spreading there. “I was reassured” that despite different variants, the J&J shot still protected
against serious illness, said Dr Jesse Goodman of Georgetown University, a former FDA vaccine chief. “That’s pretty robust data.” Across all countries, yesterday’s analysis showed protection began to emerge about 14 days after vaccination. But by 28 days after vaccination, there were no hospitalisations or deaths in the vaccinated group compared with 16 hospitalisations and seven deaths in study recipients who received a dummy shot. The FDA said effectiveness and safety were consistent across racial groups, including Black and Latino participants.
ASIAN NATIONS GET THEIR FIRST SHOTS Many nations in the Asia-Pacific region are rolling out the first shots for COVID-19 this week. Here’s a look at major developments:
MALAYSIA’s Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin receives the first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine yesterday.
SOUTH KOREA South Korea’s top infectious disease experts warned vaccines will not bring the disease to a quick end and called for continued vigilance in social distancing and mask wearing as the country prepares to give its first shots tomorrow. The country aims to vaccinate more than 70 percent of the population by November. Jeong spoke as South Korea began transporting the first vaccines rolled off a production line in the southern city of Andong, where local pharmaceutical company SK Bioscience
is manufacturing the shots developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford. The country will kick off the vaccination on Friday starting with residents and employees at long-term care facilities. Separately, some 55,000 doctors, nurses and other health professionals treating COVID-19 patients will begin receiving the shots developed by Pfizer and BioNTech on Saturday. AUSTRALIA Two elderly people have been administered with higher-than-prescribed doses of the Pfizer vaccine, Australia’s health minister said yesterday. The 88-year-old man and 94-year-old woman were being monitored and the doctor who administered the shots had been stood
down from the vaccination programme, Health Minister Greg Hunt said.
THAILAND Thailand yesterday received the first 200,000 doses of China’s Sinovac vaccine. Another 117,000 doses of AstraZeneca were expected later yesterday. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha attended a ceremony with the Chinese Embassy deputy mission chief to receive the vaccines at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport. Thailand has ordered a total of 2 million doses from China. MALAYSIA Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin received Malaysia’s first COVID-19 vaccine shot yesterday. Malaysia, which has signed deals with several vaccine suppliers including
Pfizer and AstroZeneca, aims to vaccinate up to 80 percent percent of its 32 million people by next year.
CHINA Chinese regulators are looking at two more potential COVID-19 vaccines, one from state-owned company Sinopharm and another from a private company, CanSino. Both companies said their vaccine candidates were submitted to regulators this week for approval. China already has approved two vaccines that it has been using in a mass immunisation campaign. One of them is also from Sinopharm, but from its Beijing subsidiary. Sinopharm said its vaccine candidate is 72.51 percent effective. CanSino said its vaccine candidate is 65.28 percent effective.
SPORTS PAGE 13
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2021
Strachan: ‘I’m definitely the best in the draft’ By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net MIKE Strachan introduced himself to the Los Angeles Chargers fanbase with the confidence that has scouts bullish on his potential and continues to propel his rise up several 2021 NFL draft boards. Strachan, the 6’5” 225-pound wide receiver, appeared on the Chargers Brawl Podcast to discuss his expectations for his upcoming pro day and his possible fit with the organisation. “I’m definitely the best in the draft, the best receiver coming out,” Strachan said. “With me knowing what I can do and me
knowing that whatwell with anyone, ever team picks me any system. Wherup - I’ll be under ever I go I want to be the best system, I’ll productive and add be with the best value,” he said. coaches, they’ll be “If I have a good able to turn me into quarterback to work a receiver that’s even with I can fit in anybetter than what I am where and with the now.” Chargers having Strachan recently [Justin] Herbert, he’s met with the Charga young quarterback ers virtually as a part and I can build a of his scouting progood connection and STRACHAN cess. The 86th edition good chemistry. We of the NFL draft will be able to use takes place April 29 - May 1, 2021. our strengths to make that team “It was good speaking with the a better team and hopefully win a team. We spoke more about back- Super Bowl because that’s my goal ground stuff. Honestly, I can fit in in my years of playing.”
The former Charleston Golden Eagles wide receiver, who patterns his game after Julio Jones and Calvin Johnson, said he is eager to be an asset to any organisation. “The league could be mine, I’ve been preparing for this all my life. I’m going to add so much value to a team and that’s something that I’ve been doing everywhere I go, I’ve always been productive. “Everywhere I’ve gone I’ve won championships on every level. Whoever is out there to get me, we will win a Super Bowl together because that’s my number one goal,” he said. “Me coming into any organisation I’m a person
SEE PAGE 14
Jones makes free throw to seal comeback victory By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net THE Texas Longhorns outscored the Kansas Jayhawks by 12 at the free throw line and scored the last five points of the game from the charity stripe, including one from Kai Jones that sealed his team’s largest comeback win of the season. Jones split a pair at the line with five seconds left to play in the No.14 Longhorns’ 75-72 overtime win over the No.17 Jayhawks at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday night. Jones finished with 10 points and eight rebounds in 21 minutes off the bench. He shot 4-5 from the field and also added one assist, one steal and a team high +10 plus-minus total. “I have to say, Kai Jones, this was one of his best
SEE PAGE 14
TEXAS forward Kai Jones dunks the ball during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Kansas Tuesday night in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
BASTIAN AND SEMINOLES 200 YARD MEDLEY RELAY TEAM EARN NCAA CHAMPIONSHIPS QUALIFYING STANDARD By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net IZAAK Bastian and his Florida State Seminoles 200 yard medley relay teammates earned an NCAA Championships qualifying standard on the opening night of the 2021 Atlantic Coast Conference Swimming Championships. Bastian teamed with Mason Herbet, Max McCusker, and Peter Varjasi to swim a time of 1:23.91 seconds to win the second
heat of the timed finals at the Greensboro Aquatic Center. They eventually tied for fourth overall with the Virginia Tech Hokies. Their timed final was 1.69 seconds lower than their seeding time entering the event. After Herbert opened with a 21.11 split in the backstroke, Bastian followed a time of 23.68 in the breaststroke, McCusker with a 20.11 split in the butterfly and Varjasi concluded with 19.01 in the freestyle. “We’re very excited with
IZAAK BASTIAN the 200 medley relay and getting the NCAA ‘A’ cut,” FSU head coach Neal Studd said. “It takes the pressure
off relays for the rest of the week.” In the 200 yard medley relay, Bastian teamed with Herbet, McCusker, and Jakub Ksiazek to finish first in 1:28.08 in the Seminoles’ first win over Auburn in programme history. The team also set a Morcom Aquatics Center record in the event (1:26.85) against LSU and finished third at the Georgia Invite. The meet continues with preliminaries of individual races this morning at 11am local time.
SHACKEEL BUTTERS NAMED AMC PLAYER OF THE WEEK By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net SHACKEEL Butters received another conference-wide accolade in the NAIA as he prepares to lead his William Baptist Eagles into the postseason. Butters was named an American Midwest Conference (AMC) Player of the Week for the second time this season for his double double in a crucial seeding win for the Eagles, 69-65 over the Health Sciences and Pharmacy Eutectics. The senior forward finished with 19 points and 19 rebounds on 8-14 shooting from the field. The Eagles finished the regular season at 8-10, 6-6 in the AMC. They enter the conference tournament as the No.5 seed and will travel to face No.4 Columbia College at 7pm local time. They opened AMC play with a 76-67 win over William Woods Owls
SHACKEEL Butters has been named an American Midwest Conference (AMC) Player of the Week for the second time this season. Photo: WBC Athletics and Butters came through with 16 points and nine rebounds. He followed with a double double - 20 points and 10 rebounds - in a 78-64 win over the Hannibal-LaGrange Trojans. Last year as his junior season got cut short because of the coronavirus
pandemic, Butters played in all 14 games, averaging 27.7 minutes as he went 70-for-126 (55.6 percent) from the field and was 34-for-48 (78.0 percent) from the charity stripe. He scored 12.4 points and averaged 10.1 rebounds per game. In his sophomore year, Butters received honourable mention AllAmerican and made the second team All-AMC. He led the NAIA with 358 total rebounds, which was a Williams school record. He was named AMC Player of the Week twice and finished with 15 double-doubles (points-rebounds). While he started and played in all 30 games the Eagles played, Butters averaged 11.9 rebounds and 11.7 points per game as he shot 60 percent from the field. In his freshman year, Butters played in 20 games, averaging 3.2 points and 2.2 rebounds per game. He shot 60 percent from the field and 75 percent from the free throw line.
SEE PAGE 18
NEW MINISTER OF YOUTH, SPORTS AND CULTURE OUTLINES PLATFORM By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net IRAM Lewis, the new minister of youth, sports and culture, has outlined his platform for the appointed post, which includes objectives at immediately impacting the sporting community. Lewis, the Member of Parliament for Central Grand Bahama, lists the reintroduction of the Bahamas Games and the development of a cohesive relationship between his ministry and its affiliated groups as principal goals. “As a former athlete, a constant supporter of our young people and their potential, and as someone committed to our creative cultural communities, I am excited to take on this responsibility,” he said. “I also understand the vital role that sports plays in the holistic development of young people and our communities. In keeping with the recent announcement by the Prime Minister, I look forward to the reintroduction of the Bahamas Games. “I pledge to work in a spirit of respect and courtesy with those in my ministry and the various youth, sports, and cultural groups with whom we engage. I will listen to advice. I will work to bring people together to advance causes that help our athletes, young people and cultural groups.” Lewis is a former president of the Grand Bahama Amateur Athletic Association, former vice president
SEE PAGE 14
SPORTS
PAGE 14, Thursday, February 25, 2021
THE TRIBUNE
Woods survives crash but his career might not By TIM DAHLBERG AP Sports Columnist THE sheared-off front of the wrecked SUV told part of the story, and the officers on the scene filled in the rest. Tiger Woods was lucky to be alive, they said, thanks to modern safety technology and a big dose of good luck. Alive and well, no. But alive nonetheless. The good news — no, make that the BEST news — is that Woods survived after being pried Tuesday from the SUV he wrecked in Los Angeles. That’s despite injuries that are so severe — including multiple open fractures of his leg — that he will be convalescing a long, long time. The other piece of good news was that there was no immediate sign that Woods was impaired at the time of the crash — a significant bit of information, of course, because of his past. The bad news is that the career of the world’s greatest golfer — at least on the game’s biggest stages — is probably over. Coming back from his recent back surgery to play again at the age of 45 was always going to be a problem. Woods himself said previously that Father Time remains undefeated and that his return to top level play wasn’t guaranteed. Combine that with the gruesome injuries from his crash and now it borders on impossible. This isn’t Ben Hogan, coming back from a near fatal car accident in 1949 to win the US Open next year. Hogan was nine years younger, hadn’t been
KAI FROM PAGE 13 games from an activity and energy standpoint. He really went and grabbed the ball, to get five offensive rebounds was huge,” Texas head coach Shaka Smart said in the post game press conference. “He was big because when they went small, it was helpful to put him in there at the five to kind of counteract what they were doing.” Jones had just five rebounds in his previous three games. Smart said Jones was able to improve on both his rebounding and offensive efficiency against Kansas. “I thought he was terrific tonight with his motor and energy. Kai is a guy, if you spend time around him he’s got an unbelievable spirit and passion to him so what we’re trying to do is really to encourage him to bring that out as much as possible on the court. We did really challenge him with rebounding because he hadn’t rebounded as well the
MIKE FROM PAGE 13
through multiple back and knee surgeries, and didn’t have to try to swing his driver hard enough to hit it 350 yards to keep up with the other players. Woods was fragile enough to begin with and there were already questions about whether he could return to play at a high level. He might share Hogan’s determination to overcome everything in front of him, but in the end there’s only so much he can do to mend his broken body. That means Woods will never break the record of 18 major championship wins held by Jack Nicklaus. It means his fans will never be able to will him on to another win like they did at the 2019 Masters. And it means golf will be a lot quieter for a long time to come. The wreck on a downhill stretch of road in tony Rancho Palos Verdes was stunning, though it shouldn’t have come as a shock. It marked the third time in a dozen years that Woods has been taken from vehicles in various stages of distress, a disturbing pattern that began with his infamous Thanksgiving weekend 2009 encounter with his now ex-wife outside his Florida mansion. Four years ago he was found passed out in his car on a Florida highway with the engine running and charged with a DUI that was later plea bargained down. And now the questions are just beginning about how he managed to crash a brand-new Genesis SUV on a clear morning on the California coast — a wreck that
last couple of games and I thought he responded in a terrific way,” Smart said. “The other thing is that he dunked the ball. That’s what we need you to do, you’re 6’ 11,” you get the ball around the basket you got to go finish and dunk it. That was big for us because we have had some missed finishes that end up being zero points on the offensive end so I thought he was efficient there.” The sophomore forward reached double figures in scoring for the eighth time this season and the 10th time in his career. Texas improved to 14-6, 8-5 in the Big 12 Conference while Kansas fell to 17-8, 11-6. It was Texas’ first regular-season twogame sweep over Kansas in programme history. Texas once trailed by 14 near the four-minute mark in the first half before they eventually rallied to improve to 6-3 in games decided by three points or less this season. It was also their fourth win against a team ranked in the Associated Press Top 25 rankings. Texas will play another Top 25 team this
that’s motivated but is also easy going, someone that’s going to be coachable. I always focus on the little things. The reason I’m here today is me being coachable and taking in everything from the people that have trained me.” At the collegiate level, Strachan was a two-sport star that also has a personal best time of 47.3 secondss in the 400m. “It’s awesome being a football player but also having the opportunity to run track, that was big for me,” he said. “The reason why I did track growing up was just to help speed for football, I always wanted to keep that tradition going from high school straight to college because I knew this time would come and speed would be a big thing for me.” With his speed, size, and pre game preparation, Strachan rewrote the Division II record books as a junior and was listed among Yahoo! Sports’ top “small school” prospects for the upcoming draft. “What I do is use my strength to my advantage. Going up against any type of defensive
LOS Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Carlos Gonzalez speaks Tuesday during a news conference at the Lomita sheriff’s station in Lomita, California, about the Tiger Woods crash. Gonzalez said the road is a trouble spot for traffic accidents and speed, he’s seen fatal collisions there. He said Woods is lucky to be alive. (AP Photo/Stefanie Dazio) sheriff deputies say he was lucky to escape alive. Suddenly, the 2019 Masters seems like it was an awful long time ago. Woods has done things over the years we couldn’t imagine on the golf course. I’ve been along for many of them, covering Woods from his first PGA Tour win in Las Vegas in 1996 as well as the Masters comeback win two years ago that was one of the great sports stories of our times. He transitioned from young phenom to all-time
great as the years and the wins piled up, only to be humbled by a scandal that cost him his marriage as well as a lot of fans. Then he came back to win his fifth green jacket in a storybook tale that might have made him more popular than ever. Woods celebrated behind the 18th green that day by hugging his children, much as he celebrated becoming the youngest Masters champion ever in 1997 by hugging his father. Woods not only seemed to regain
his game in the last few years but his ability to connect with others as he began smiling and signing autographs like it wasn’t the chore he made it out to be most of his career. On Sunday he was at the Genesis Invitational at nearby Riviera Country Club as the tournament host. He couldn’t play because of his most recent back surgery just before Christmas but came on CBS to answer questions about whether he would be back in time for the Masters.
“God, I hope so,” Woods said. “I gotta get there first.” He won’t be there this year. The odds are he will never tee it up at Augusta National as a competitive player again. The one sure thing is that golf won’t be the same without him. The game will survive, of course, but it’s hard to imagine it without the one player who transcended the sport. The only thing that really matters now, though, is that Woods survived, too.
IRAM FROM PAGE 13
TEXAS forward Kai Jones, left, fights for a rebound with Kansas forward Jalen Wilson during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Tuesday night in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) weekend when they travel go through a lot of adver- averaging 8.2 points and to face the No.18 Texas sity and challenges, that 4.8 rebounds per game Tech Red Raiders on Feb- can really bring you closer while shooting 58 percent ruary 27. The game will be together and make you from the field and 42 pertelevised by CBS at noon stronger as a group or it cent from three. His 2021 NBA Draft local time. Like many pro- can kind of push you apart grammes in the NCAA, and put you in a position stock continues to rise and Texas has been hampered where you’re making a several publications proby postponements, lim- lot of excuses and kind of ject the versatile forward ited roster availability due pointing fingers. I’m really as a mid first to second to COVID-19 protocols proud of the way that round pick. His projected Class of and prior to the matchup our guys came together against Kansas, had lost tonight after Kansas had a 2021 rankings include phenomenal start and we ESPN - No.16, Sports four of their last six. Illustrated - No.22, Yahoo! “These guys have been were sluggish.” On the season, the 6’11” Sports - No.23, and through so much,” Smart said. “I think when you 220-pound forward is NBAdraft.net - No.24.
back, I know my strengths and I know their weaknesses based on the preparation and studying them before every game,” he said. “I learn what they like to do, if they like to attack more, and that gives me an edge. I learn their tendencies, how they come out their break, if they are physical on the press, I look at all these things so when gameday comes I’ll be ready to go.” Earlier this month, Strachan received an invitation to the 2021 Draft Scouting Combine. This year’s combine will not follow the traditional format due to COVID19, but Strachan will still have an opportunity to showcase his skills for each of the 30 NFL franchises. The combine usually features over 300 of the top college prospects at a four-day event in Indianapolis, Indiana, where they showcase their skills in on-field workouts, medical tests, psychological tests, and interviews. In the 2021 combine, the onfield workouts will be conducted in a series of “pro day” camps, while interviews and tests will be conducted virtually. Strachan’s pro day will take place at West Virginia University
MIKE STRACHAN on March 18. His goals are to record a 4.3 second 40-yard and a 38” vertical. “A 4.3 - 40, I feel like I can get it, especially based on the times I’ve been showing and getting at practice, that’s a reachable goal for me,” he said. “I’m also looking for anywhere from 38” inches and up on my vertical. I’m always working on my jumping and it’s a
strength of mine, being able to go up and get the ball, being able to attack the 50-50 balls and come down with it has always been a strength of mine.” Strachan signed with DEC Management in November and also recently joined The Society brand and marketing agency. In his junior season, Strachan rewrote the record books and boosted his stock for pro scouts. He was named an NCAA Division II Second Team All-American by the American Football Coaches Association and to the 2019 Don Hansen NCAA Division II AllAmerica team. He finished with 78 receptions for 1,319 yards and 19 touchdowns in his final season with the Golden Eagles. He finished his career with a share of the all-time Charleston touchdown record of 27. He set new school records, led the Mountain East Conference in each category and was second in all of DII in both receiving yards and touchdowns. He also achieved Division II Top-10 marks for the 2019 season in receiving touchdowns (second), receiving yards (sixth), receptions (ninth), and receiving yards per game (fifth).
of the Bahamas Olympic Committee, and a two-time Olympic sprinter, who represented the Bahamas in the 1996 games in Atlanta, Georgia and 2000 in Sydney, Australia as a member of the men’s 4 x 100 metre relay team. He most recently served as minister of state for disaster preparedness. “I thank the Prime Minister, the Most Hon Dr Hubert Minnis for his confidence in recommending my appointment as Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture. I thank my predecessor in office, the Hon Lanisha Rolle for the work she did at the Ministry. I also wish to thank my colleagues at the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness, Management and Reconstruction, the Disaster Reconstruction Authority, and NEMA for their support during my tenure as Minister of State,” he said. “I look forward to engaging with the cultural and creative arts community in the ongoing development and promotion of Bahamian arts, culture, and heritage. Because the development of our young people is at the heart of national development, I will be a champion for Bahamian youth and young adults.” Lewis is the third minister of youth, sports and culture to serve under the current Free National Movement administration. Michael Pintard was initially appointed but was relocated to the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources in 2018. Rolle went on to fill the position and become the country’s first woman appointed as the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture. “The Bahamas is a great little country. Our people have so much talent. My focus will be on helping nurture that talent in a spirit of unity and togetherness,” Lewis said. “I thank my family, friends, colleagues and the people of Central Grand Bahama for their continuing support. I pledge my best to the Bahamian people and will continue to honour the privilege of public service. With gratitude, I thank Almighty God for his blessings and pray those blessings on our country.”
SPORTS
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, February 25, 2021, PAGE 17
Hornets cool off Deandre Ayton and Suns 124-121 By DAVID BRANDT AP Sports Writer PHOENIX (AP) — Malik Monk scored 29 points, LaMelo Ball added 20 points and eight assists and the Charlotte Hornets cooled off the Phoenix Suns with a 124-121 victory last night. Phoenix lost for just the second time in 11 games. Suns star Devin Booker missed an off-balance 3-pointer at the buzzer with replays showing Gordon Hayward made contact with Booker’s arm. There was no foul call and the play wasn’t reviewed. Deandre Ayton posted another double double - 16 points and 10 rebounds with one assist and a block. Hayward also had 20 points, including two free throws with 5.8 seconds left. Charlotte trailed for most of the first half, then rallied to take a 97-91 lead by the end of the third quarter. The Hornets pushed ahead by 11 points midway through the fourth but Phoenix scored 11 straight points — capped by Booker’ dunk — to tie it at 110.
Charlotte responded with the next seven points. Two came on a perfect alley-oop pass from Ball to Miles Bridges and then Bridges knocked down a 3-pointer on the next possession. After a Phoenix timeout, Ball slammed home a dunk after slicing down the lane and the Hornets didn’t trail again. Booker was named to his second straight All-Star team as an injury replacement for Lakers forward Anthony Davis a few hours before last night’s game. He got a big ovation from the crowd during pregame introductions and put on a show in the first quarter, pouring in 16 points on 7 of 9 shooting. Booker finished with 33 points on 13-of-24 shooting. Teammate Chris Paul — who also made the All-Star team for an 11th time — added 20 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds. Phoenix led 17 points in the first half but settled for a 67-66 lead at halftime. Monk scored 22 points on 7-of-11 shooting — including 4 of 7 from 3-point range — before the break.
DEMARCUS Cousins (AP)
ROCKETS RELEASE DEMARCUS COUSINS AFTER 25 GAMES PHOENIX Suns’ Deandre Ayton posted another double double - 16 points and 10 rebounds - with one assist and a block in the Phoenix Suns 124-121 loss to the Charlotte Hornets last night. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb) TIP-INS Hornets: Hayward was questionable with a right hand contusion but made his 29th start of the season. Charlotte’s Terry Rozier was called for a technical in the third quarter after
a no-call when Rozier appeared to get poked in the eye before he shot a 3-pointer. Guard Devonte’ Graham didn’t play for a third straight game because of left knee discomfort. Bismarck Biyombo had 11
rebounds. Suns: Forward Abdel Nader didn’t play because of a left thumb strain. Booker got a technical in the fourth quarter for jawing with Graham, who didn’t play and was sitting on the Hornets’ bench.
NEW Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) dunks in the second half against the Detroit Pistons in New Orleans last night. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Rockets have released DeMarcus Cousins after just 25 games. Cousins was waived this week after signing a $2.3 million contract with Houston in the offseason. He returned to the court this season after missing all of last season while recovering from a torn Achilles tendon. The 30-year-old Cousins was averaging 9.6 points and 7.6 rebounds this season playing in a reserve role. The four-time All-Star has averaged 20.8 points and 10.7 rebounds in an 11-year career in which he also played with Sacramento, New Orleans and Golden State.
NO. 20 ARKANSAS’ BIG RUN FLUSTERS NO. 6 ALABAMA
New All-Star Zion leads Pelicans past Pistons NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Zion Williamson scored 32 points in his first game since being named a first-time All-Star, and the New Orleans Pelicans beat the Detroit Pistons 128-118 last night. Highlighting his performance with quick dribbling spin moves to elude multiple converging defenders in the paint and set up short floaters and layups, or with thunderous one-handed dunks on cuts down the lane or along the baseline, Williamson made 13 of his 18 shots in reaching the 30-point threshold for the eighth time this season. Brandon Ingram added 27 points, eight assists and seven rebounds for New Orleans. The Pelicans trailed most of the first three quarters before edging in front in the fourth quarter, thwarting the Pistons’ bid to win two road games in consecutive nights. Steven Adams scored 14 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in his first action since missing two games with a sore right ankle. His putback gave the Pelicans a 121111 lead with 2:15 left. Josh Jackson scored 25 points for Detroit.
HAWKS 127, CELTICS 112 ATLANTA (AP) — Danilo Gallinari set an Atlanta franchise record with 10 3-pointers in a 38-point spree that carried the Hawks past Boston. Gallinari finished 10 of 12 from 3-point range and 13 of 16 overall. He broke the mark of nine 3-pointers by Steve Smith in a 1997 game against Seattle. The Hawks also eclipsed the overall team record by going 23 of 42 beyond beyond the arc. Trae Young played like an AllStar, adding 33 points. WARRIORS 111, PACERS 107 INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Stephen Curry scored 24 points, Draymond Green fell just short of a triple-double and weary Golden State beat Indiana. Green had 12 points, 11 rebounds, nine assists and three steals. The Warriors took control with a late 6-0 run to seal their second straight victory on a fourgame trip. Malcolm Brogdon led the Pacers with 24 points, and Domantas Sabonis had 22 points and 16 rebounds.
CAVALIERS 112, ROCKETS 96 CLEVELAND (AP) — Jarrett Allen tied his career high with 26 points, grabbed 18 rebounds and blocked four shots to help Cleveland hand Houston its ninth straight loss. Allen, who leads the NBA making 67.2% of his field goals, made 10 of 11 shots from the floor as Cleveland won for the second straight night after dropping its previous 10 contests. John Wall scored 20 points for Houston. BULLS 133, TIMBERWOLVES 126, OT CHICAGO (AP) — Zach LaVine celebrated his first All-Star selection with 35 points against his original NBA team, helping Chicago beat Minnesota in overtime. LaVine, named an All-Star reserve Tuesday night, made 14 of 21 shots in his 16th game this season with at least 30 points. Chicago shot 59% from the field. Minnesota lost for the 10th time in 11 games despite a gutsy second-half rally while playing for the second straight night. New coach Chris Finch is winless in two games since taking over after Ryan
Saunders was fired Sunday night. Malik Beasley scored 25 points for the Timberwolves. SPURS 102, THUNDER 99 OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a career-high 42 points, and Lu Dort hit a 3-pointer as time expired to lift Oklahoma City past San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. San Antonio turned the ball over with 3.9 seconds remaining, giving Oklahoma City the ball with the score tied. Dort’s corner 3-pointer dropped as the buzzer sounded, and his teammates mobbed him. Dort and Al Horford each scored 16 points for the Thunder. HEAT 116, RAPTORS 108 MIAMI (AP) — Jimmy Butler Butler scored 27 points, 14 of them in the final quarter, and Miami beat Toronto for its fourth consecutive victory. Butler also had 10 assists and eight rebounds. It was the eighth win in the last 11 games for the Heat, who started the season 7-14. Kyle Lowry, returning from a thumb injury, scored 24 points for Toronto. Fred VanVleet also had 24.
PENN ST WOMEN SHOCK NO. 15 OHIO ST BEHIND BEVERLEY, MARISA COLLEGE STATION, Pa. (AP) — Niya Beverley scored a careerhigh 21 points, Makenna Marisa added 17 with eight rebounds and eight assists and Penn State upset No. 15 Ohio State 69-67 yesterday, ending an 11-game losing streak in the series. Marisa’s layup with 1:01 to play was the winning basket, set up after Beverley, who was 9-of-11 shooting, grabbed an offensive rebound. Ohio State followed with a turnover when Dorka Juhasz tried
to lob the ball inside to Aaliyah Patty, who got tangled up with a defender. The Buckeyes forced a desperation airball late in the shot clock but couldn’t get off a shot in the closing 7.8 seconds. Johnasia Cash added 16 points for the Nittany Lions (9-11, 6-10 Big Ten Conference), who ended a four-game losing streak and beat a top-15 team for the first time since 2016. Juhasz scored 21 points and grabbed 11 rebounds after scoring a career-low one point in a
Sunday loss to No. 11 Michigan. The Buckeyes (13-5, 9-5) have lost back-to-back games for the first time this season. Jacy Sheldon added 19 points. Ohio State, which won the first game 82-69, scored the first eight points of the game. When Juhasz reached 10 points midway through the first quarter the Buckeyes had a 17-4 lead. Penn State took a 29-28 lead on a Beverley 3 and she followed with a layup. The Buckeyes got a pair of free throws but a basket at
the buzzer was waved off following a long review and Penn State led 31-30 at the half. No. 11 Indiana plays at Ohio State on Saturday before the Buckeyes finish with Rutgers. That ends Ohio State’s season as the Buckeyes have self-imposed a postseason ban because of potential NCAA infractions, reportedly involving a former assistant coach. No. 25 Rutgers visits Penn State on Sunday before the Nittany Lions end the regular season at No. 8 Maryland.
By ERIC W BOLIN Associated Press FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP) — Freshman Jaylin Williams scored 10 of his season-high 13 points during a decisive run and No. 20 Arkansas beat sixthranked Alabama 81-66 last night. It was the Razorbacks’ first win at home over a ranked team in three years. Williams keyed the 17-2 run that turned a six-point deficit into a nine-point lead with less than 10 minutes to play. He was one of five Arkansas players to finish in double figures for Arkansas (18-5, 10-4 Southeastern Conference). Justin Smith scored 11, Jalen Tate and J.D Notae had 12 apiece and Moses Moody led all scorers with 24, 16 of which came from the freethrow line. Alabama (18-6, 13-2) managed only the two points during that stretch, a John Petty Jr. jumper, for a span of 8:53. Arkansas’ run provided too much frustration. Petty was charged with a technical foul after appearing to argue a no-foul call with 6:55 left. The Razorbacks would build their lead to 16 less than two minutes later, forcing an Alabama timeout. Petty would be ejected after picking up another technical with 1:01 left. Alabama ran hot and cold the whole game. The Crimson Tide missed their first nine 3-pointers, but would follow by making eight of their next 10, including the first basket of the second half, giving them their first lead since the opening five minutes of the game. Jordan Bruner led Alabama with 14 points, 12 of which came in the first half. Petty finished with 12. The loss snapped Alabama’s winning streak at three games and Arkansas’ win extended its SEC-winning streak to eight.
RELIGION
THE TRIBUNE
Thursday, February 25, 2021 ● PAGE 45
THE TRIBUNE
RELIGION SECTION C
RELIGIOUS NEWS, STORIES AND CHURCH EVENTS
CURFEW LODGE AND TEMPLE OBSERVE 75TH ANNIVERSARY BROTHERS and Daughters of Curfew Lodge 1162 and Curfew Temple 816 of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World recently observed the 75th establishment of their organisation at the 10.30am Holy Eucharist and St Agnes Anglican Church, Baillou Hill Road. “Our lodge and temple were established in December 1945 but because of the pandemic restrictions we weren’t able to celebrate last year,” said Adrian Archer, Exalted Ruler of Curfew Lodge. “So we were very happy to be accommodated at St Agnes Church, a historic edifice in the shadow of our lodge hall.” In his welcome remarks, rector of St Agnes Church, Archdeacon Keith Cartwright impressed up the lodge members the need to live their motto of Charity, Justice, Brotherly and Sisterly love. “The Elks have a long history in the Bahamas of looking after the needy, volunteering and helping good causes and being good examples of others to follow,” said Archdeacon Cartwright. “The need is so great in our community, especially now, so we thank you for what you have done all these years and for what you continue to do.” In addition to the brothers and daughters of Curfew Lodge and Temple, led by Exalter Ruler Adrian Archer and Daughter Ruler MaeDawn Murphy, the service was also attended by Brother and Daughter President of The Bahamas State Association of Elks, Brother Raynard Edgecombe and Daughter Cecelia Cooper and
well as brohers Nigel Brown and Patrick Huyler from Reuben G Knowles lodge 1760. ‘We hope and pray that as our society continues to open there will be other occasions for us to observe our anniversary,” said Archer. “In the meantime, we give God thanks for the founding of our lodge and temple and all who have gone before us in our important work.”
FROM left, front row, Bro Kyle Dean, Bro State President Raynard Edgecombe, Curfew Exalted Ruler Adrian Archer, Archdeacon Keith Cartwright, Curfew Daughter Ruler MaeDawn Murphy, Dt Olive Neeley, Dgt State President Cecelia Cooper, Dgt Delores Pratt Fr Ruel Strachan, (second row) Bro Tavaris Clarke, Bro Bro Nigel Brown, Bro Patrick Huyler, Dgt Caudell Evens, Grand Temple Office Dgt Dr Zelrona Mackey, (third row) Bro Theodore Glover, Bro D’Angelo Thompson Bro Richardo Woodside, Bro Lavern Rolle, Dgt Kaye Huyler Wells. Not pictured Bro. Cyril Saunders.
CONFIRMATION HELD AT ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH
THE Rt Reverend Laish Boyd, Bishop of the Diocese of The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Island recently paid his official visit to St George’s Anglican “in the valley” at which time he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to eight candidates. Those affirming their
baptismal vows through confirmation were Shaunté Coakley, Alexis Roberts, Michaella Demeritte, Shereka Shepherd, Xandria Cleare, Jabez Bain, De’Andre Dawkins and Arnold Sainville. In his address to the Confirmands, the Bishop urged them to always do what is right and to take
seriously their commitment to God and to the church. Pictured after the confirmation rite are, from left, Arnold Sainville, Michaella Demeritte, De’Andre Dawkins, Xandria Cleare, Bishop Laish Boyd, Shaute Coakley, Alexis Roberts, Jabez Bain and Shereka Shepherd.
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RELIGION
THE TRIBUNE
Checking your tank
WHAT does your spiritual sins and shortcomings. Be gas gauge read? Are you on honest with yourself and God. vapours, empty, full or overTo receive forgiveness, just full? Consider the following look at the cross. What do spiritual states and determine you see? I see total forgivewhich best describe you at the ness at an immeasurably high moment: price. Forgiveness is a free gift 1. Overfull: You are full of grace, freely offered, to be of the Spirit and this is your freely received. season, thanking God every See yourself under the minute, sharing with others to stream of God’s grace, showhelp them get some gas. ered under it, saturated with 2. Full: You are not quite it and anointed by it. See overfull yet, but you are doing BY Rev Angela C yourself washed clean. Allow well; continue to worship, Bosfield Palacious yourself to be forgiven and pray, study and serve. set free from every chain that 3. Empty: Do you need healing? Who binds. Now, write a letter of thanksgiving has hurt you? How have they hurt you? to God for your freedom and for God’s Pray for healing and to forgive, even love. seek justice if need be. Write a letter to Allowing the Lord to fill your cup the person who has offended you, then, 1. Write a list of your best ways to tear it up into tiny pieces. Release the feel your cup filling up (prayer/ silence/ memory as best you can as you throw scripture/hymns/people etcetera.), medithe pieces away. Seek counselling if you tate with these and with passages such as cannot let it go. Galatians 5. 2-26 (The Fruit of the Spirit). Do you need to repent? Be sorry 2. Pray for restoration, using Psalm 23: enough to want to change and humble “He restores my soul.” Allow the Lord enough to ask God to change you. Be to do this. What does this mean to you? determined enough to allow the H Spirit What is lost or tarnished? How are you to maintain and sustain the change. restored? Share with a prayer partner Reflect on the worst thing that you have what has been restored, and what still done, and on things for which you still needs to be. feel guilty. 3. Pray for revival using Psalm 23: Give it all to the Lord now in silent “He revives my soul.” What was dead or prayer as you confess your faults, failings, drained and needs to be revived? How
does the Lord’s love revive you? What does it feel and look like to be full of joy? 4. Pray for inner peace in order to live a life of peace. What does this mean to you? What disturbs your peace? When are you most at peace? What can you do to hold on to your peace? How can you share this with others? 5. Write a letter to yourself pledging to remain more loving, joyful and peaceful, asking God for whatever help you need to remain grounded in Jesus. 6. Share with your prayer partner and/ or spiritual director any changes you wish to make and the prayer support you need
to help your cup overflow. Share something that God has already done to start to fill your cup and some of the best ways to stay grounded in Jesus. What we want for all of our people is healing, repentance, forgiveness, restoration, revival, and the accompanying love, joy and peace. May we keep our tank full with the ever-flowing grace of God and encourage others to do the same. • Rev Angela Palacious, a motivational speaker and author of several devotional books, is an Anglican priest. She may be contacted at 393-9000 or by e-mail at angelapalacious@gmail.com.
THE TRIBUNE
RELIGION
Thursday, February 25, 2021 ● PAGE 47
How and why Bahamians observe Lent
By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net WE’RE NOW into the second week of the Lenten season and many Bahamians have chosen to give up something, or alternatively, have decided to give more of themselves to others. During this 40-day period – which represents Jesus’ sacrifice and withdrawal into the desert for 40 days – Christians all over the world choose to fast in various ways. The season begins on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday. Tribune Religion asked a number of Bahamians to share their thoughts on their personal sacrifices during this season. For Roman Catholic Jennifer Spence doing less is more. “I found myself asking for advice on what to give up, because I have been so busy, I really didn’t have a chance to sit and think on anything. And then the lightbulb shined pretty brightly in my head and it was just that: I am always so busy. I need rest and I need to be more still. So out of the ten things I usually do consistently every week, I have shaved it down to four. I am now on the second week and I feel the difference.
“Don’t get me wrong, the remaining six things on my to-do list are very much important, but that is why it is called a sacrifice. I gave up things I thought I could not live without, and I can’t wait to see how well I do for the remaining days,” she said. Meanwhile, Olivia McPhee she made certain that her sacrifice is solely for herself and not for others. She noted that fasting should not be done to entertain others and quoted Matthew 6:17-18: “But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Kristen Joseph believes Lent is also about adding something to the world by becoming a better person. “If you have never volunteered at a local organisation, your church or the community, you can use this time to give yourself in that way. Time when you would usually do things that would take up most of your time you can replace with this. Trust me, it will make you feel all good inside. I have done it before and it has built my faith and made me even more thankful and grateful for the life God allows me to live. In the future I will teach my kids to do the same when that day comes,” said Kristen.
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THE TRIBUNE
Some Christians waiting on ‘divine direction’ on whether to take COVID-19 vaccine By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net FOR many Christians, their faith and relationship with God not only feeds them spiritually, but is where they gain wisdom for many of life’s important decisions, like which career path to take, whether they should relocate to a new place, and even who they should spend the rest of their lives with in marriage. With such major life decisions being dictated by their religion, it’s no wonder that some are leaving the issue of whether or not to take the COVID19 vaccine to faith as well. Some Christians say it’s a choice they will not be making without divine direction. Albert Johnson said every major decision he has made in his life was one divinely inspired by God. “I have always lived my life this way. I seek God in all things, because honestly, I do not want to make a wrong move in my life, causing a setback for myself,” he told Tribune Religion. “There is just so much being said about the virus and the vaccine that it’s hard to pick out what is true from what is not. This is why I am asking God to make the right decision clear.” Trusting God with important decisions is something Albert said he has great experience with. He is confident the right path will be revealed. “Some people have asked me, ‘How will you know if you are right in the decision you make to take the vaccine or not?’ I have had God lead me in other ways before. But direction never really came for me unless I prayed first, got myself in a quiet state and listened for God’s voice in my heart. Usually, I would have a strong urging to in a particular direction and that would be God speaking to me,” he explained.
Hearing God’s voice to question of whether to take the vaccine is vitally important to him. “I have been confused about it. I have been debating whether to take it. On one hand I don’t want to be injected with the actual virus and end up getting sick, and on the other hand I don’t want to leave my self open to getting it either when there is medicine available to prevent it. So I am thinking about all angles of this, but I am sure God will make the way clear and confirm the best route for me to take,” she said. According to Ruth Saunders, her faith has never failed her, and when in doubt she bows her head in prayer. “I don’t believe in over spiritualising certain matters the way some Christians do. This virus is a real physical virus and it must be treated as such. So for me, I consider the wisdom that is out there, but truthfully I know God will inspire my decision. I could say today I am taking the vaccine, but God’s has much more wisdom about my body and how certain things may affect me and I may get an unction to not go ahead in take the vaccine,” she said. Meanwhile, Miriam Johnson said the only advice she has for Christians at a crossroads in this matter is to seek God. “I know that I will be taking the vaccine once it becomes available. But for those believers who do not know what they should do, I say pray and seek God. He will not lead you astray or lead you in the wrong direction,” she said. Clyde Rolle said he will not be taking the vaccine unless he receives a clear message from the Almighty. “It’s a matter of my faith. Too many people are saying yes and no to a decision they have not even sought God about. That will not be me,” he said.