08042023 NEWS, SPORT AND BUSINESS

COVID ‘ISOLATION’ HINDERS STUDENTS

Conflict in classroom as pupils struggle after pandemic lockdowns

ACTING Education

Director Dominique McCartney-Russell said students developed communication and motivation gaps during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to problems with conflict resolution in addition to the skills and knowledge loss that have worried educators.

“We noticed that during the pandemic, the lockdown created a lot of isolation, and

so the students would not have developed the socialisation skills they normally do when they’re connected to one another, so when they got back on the campuses, there was a lot of issues in regards to conflict and their abilities to resolve those conflicts,” she told The Tribune “Also, we noticed that there was a certain level of lethargy, you know, some of our students were almost apathetic towards education.

OFFICER DEFENDS WORK IN DEANGELO EVANS CASE

THE officer who investigated Deangelo Evans’ police-involved killing in 2018 defended the quality of his work yesterday under tough cross-examination from the lawyer representing Evans’ estate.

Romona FarquharsonSeymour cross-examined Assistant Superintendent

Anthony McCartney after he testified in the Coroner’s Court as the inquest into Evans’ death continued.

ASP McCartney said he visited Sandy Lane in Masons Addition shortly after 10.30am on May 27, 2018.

He said when he spoke with the two officers involved in the shooting, Corporal Wright and

MINISTER’S ‘CONCERN’ FOR FIRE VICTIMS

SOCIAL Services Minister Obie Wilchcombe expressed deep concern about shanty town residents affected by a fire on Monday, saying officials will provide the victims with food, clothing, and other necessities.

Mr Wilchcombe told The Tribune he and other officials visited the shanty town off Joe Farrington Road yesterday.

“They told me they lost everything,” he said. “So, we’re going to try to assist in terms of the clothing and everything else. But you know we’re rather lucky that the fire didn’t extend beyond the house. You see the proximity to the other houses, in fact, that house appeared to be a house onto a house. I’m deeply concerned about the conditions.”

THE Ministry of Transport and Housing said it had not approved a 25 cent bus fare increase.

A letter on social media from the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union claimed that bus fares would increase by 25 cents for adults and students while rates for senior citizens would remain unchanged as of August 14.

The union claimed the Ministry of Transport sanctioned the increase.

NO STRIKE OUT FOR 180-ACRE LAND CLAIM

THE Government’s bid to strike out a rival ownership claim to 180 acres of land said to be inherited from a land grant in 1827 was this week dismissed by the Supreme Court.

Justice Petra HannaAdderley, in her August 2 verdict found John Russell’s claim to land now part of a Grand Bahama oil storage terminal is “not an obvious case” to be struck out.

THE NEXT EDITION OF THE TRIBUNE IS ON TUESDAY AFTER THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND

FISHING HOLE ROAD BRIDGE REOPENS AFTER REMEDIATION

THE Fishing Hole Road Bridge reopened on Thursday following the completion of emergency

remediation work of the causeway at Hawksbill Creek. The causeway was opened around 7am to the motoring public. According to a press statement by the Ministry

of Public Works and Utilities, Fishing Hole Road Bridge provides a crucial link between West and East Grand Bahama.

The contractor, Bahamas Hot Mix, completed all the necessary road construction

works. The initial concrete road surface was replaced with an asphalt surface. Representatives from the Grand Bahama Port Authority and the Ministry of Public Works inspected the completed works to

ensure the quality and safety.

The public is urged to observe traffic signs and road markings and adhere to the speed limit.

The Fishing Hole Road bridge was closed for repairs on December 28,

2022, after several “slip and slide” accidents on a section of the overpass. It was determined that an immediate oil slick on the initial concrete surface and rainy conditions made driving hazardous for motorists.

Investigation ongoing after Buckeye oil spill

ENVIRONMENT and Natural Resources Minister

Vaughn Miller said investigations remain active and ongoing into the fuel oil spill at Buckeye Bahamas Hub off Pinder’s Point, Grand Bahama. He indicated there is a possibility that penalties might be levied.

“Once all of our findings have been submitted, and the department makes the decision and submits it and its recommendations to the Office of Attorney General, then based on that, we determine what we will do,” he said.

“But, we always operate under the principle that the polluter pays. And depending on the extent of it depends on how much the polluter pays.”

Mr Miller, who is also serving as Acting Minister of Transport and Housing, along with Acting Minister for Grand Bahama Senator Michael Halkitis State Minister for Finance, met senior management at Buckeye on Thursday.

During a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister in Freeport, the minister said every effort is being made to protect the lives and livelihood of people in the immediate communities of North Bahamia, Pinder’s Point, and Hunters, and areas of Grand Bahama in general.

“The Government of the Bahamas is acutely aware of the impact of these types of incidents on our environment and the lives of our people.

“The preservation of the environment remains a priority of the Davis administration,” he said.

The government agencies leading the investigation are the Port Department, the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, and the Department of Environmental Health Services. They have conducted aerial surveillance of the area, completed a site visit by boat to view the oil sheen on the water, and visited the site where the fuel oil spill occurred at the jetty.

Buckeye is cooperating with the investigating agencies.

The company has reported that the spill occurred at approximately 5.54am on August 2 during a flushing operation to facilitate the transfer of products between two tanks at the terminal. Within minutes of the transfer commencing, the product fuel from loading arm 82 which was inactive and in the stowed position at the time of the incident began spraying out.

This resulted in approximately five to ten barrels of product fuel spraying out. It is estimated that between two and three barrels of the product went into the water.

Buckeye immediately suspended the line flushing operations and initiated containment and recovery efforts.

Oil sheen observed on the surface of water travelled westward and out to sea.

Arana Pyfrom, deputy director at the Department of Environment Planning and Protection, determined that from their investigations the spill took place three-quarters of a mile from the shore.

However, they have not yet fully determined the exact width of the spread of oil sheen, which might appear larger from the air than in actuality, he reported.

Residents are advised to contact the ministry or Buckeye if they see any fuel oil or substances on the beach and shoreline.

Public analyst Anthony Ryan, of the Department of Environmental Health Services, said residents in the

affected areas and communities should be vigilant.

I would stay away right now and just allow a few days for the flushing out to sea,” he said. The sheen, Ryan said, will eventually dissipate over time.

“When you have a spill like this out to sea that is spread out wide, it is very difficult … to try to clean it all up at once,” he explained.

“We are vigilant and looking at this. Our department in Grand Bahama is on the lookout as well. So, we cannot say where this (the oil sheen) will go.”

“But so far we are in good shape, and the company is doing what we request them to do, and they have taken the right actions,” said Mr Ryan.

Vern Wright, acting Port Controller of the Port Department, said the National Oil Advisory Committee is headed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and Housing and consists of representatives from a number of agencies, including the Attorney General’s Office, and NGOs such as the Bahamas National Trust.

Mr Wright said penalties from incidents are determined under the office of the Attorney General.

Mr Miller believes that polluters should pay.

“I am always one for that, if the polluter can afford it then the polluter should pay it. We just have to enforce it.

“But we operate under the principle the polluter pays and whatever the findings are, if the polluter should be paying, the polluter will pay,” he said.

PROMISED MARIJUANA LEGISLATION NOT YET RELEASED - BUT CONSULTATION STARTS ‘THIS MONTH’

CONSULTATION on marijuana legislation is to begin this month, deputy press secretary Keishla Adderley said yesterday.

However, she could not say whether the bills would be tabled in the House of Assembly before elected officials go on summer recess.

In June, Attorney General Ryan Pinder said the cannabis bills would be

released in July, followed by a two-month public consultation phase.

However, that did not happen.

Ms Adderley said the consultation will “involve the Health Minister Michael Darville

and the Attorney General Ryan Pinder to get the views of everyone concerned before the legislation proceeds to Parliament”.

Some marijuana users have eagerly awaited changes to the laws

prohibiting marijuana use.

fdafgsdOn Tues -

day, Supreme Court Justice Lorien Klein rejected Rastafarian Lorenzo Stubbs’ application that laws prohibiting marijuana

possession breached his constitutional right to freedom of religion.

Justice Klein ruled that legislators were within their right to pass a law that does not include a religious exemption for marijuana use.

Officer defends work in Deangelo Evans case

Inspector Wilson, they claimed they engaged a suspect in an armed robbery and fired after seeing a firearm. He said both men said they discharged their weapons. ASP McCartney said he observed spent cartridge cases and police holding back a crowd of 30 people. Evans’ body was already gone when he arrived at the scene. He later went to Princess Margaret Hospital and spoke to officers and doctors at the morgue.

He also said he later spoke to Sergeant Trevor McKinney, the officer who collected the firearm recovered near Evans’ hand. He said he received reports from the two officers

involved in the shooting the next day. ASP McCartney said he never handled the firearms involved in the shooting because the officers were afraid and concerned for their safety. He confirmed that he never took or assessed their guns, even after the threat subsided. He said police protocol did

not require that he take their weapons. Although he said he made inquiries concerning the armed robbery that preceded Evans’ death, he could not remember with whom he discussed the matter. He could not describe what the suspects in the armed robbery matter or Evans wore. He said he never visited the armed robbery site. He said he never interviewed civilian witnesses at the scene.

Under cross-examination from Mrs Farquharson, he said he couldn’t recall what the two officers said about how they shot the deceased.

When he agreed such details would be important to the investigation, Mrs Farquharson-Seymour said his report indicated

he did not speak to the two officers the day of the shooting.

“ASP McCartney, you don’t even have in your report that you spoke with them,” she said. “Nothing is in your report that you ever spoke to either of these officers at the scene at all. ASP McCartney, you are the investigating officer.”

In response, ASP McCartney said his actions were not uncommon. He said officers involved in shootings cover such details in their reports. He also said it is protocol for such officers to compose themselves and speak with a chaplain before making reports about traumatic shootings.

He disagreed with the lawyer’s suggestion that such protocol and his investigation were improper. He said officers could

MINISTER’S ‘CONCERN’ FOR FIRE VICTIMS

the deaths that would have been a result.”

Mr Wilchcombe said he would report the matter to the Shanty Town Task Force next week.

“It’s a tragedy waiting to happen almost, so we have to look at that situation against the position that we have to move on these shanty towns,” he said. “We have to move to the government task force that’s working on them and I will report to the task force next week on the situation there. Because just to think if that fire had spread, the damage and

When officials visited the shanty town yesterday, Mr Wilchcombe said he discovered seven children and two adults affected by the fire.

“We saw some others gathering, but we were told that once they see officials come, many scatter and don’t want to be around,” he added.

Asked what assistance the residents would receive, Mr Wilchcombe said: “Social Services will put packages together for them.”

He said the packages

would include food, clothing, and other essential items. He hoped they would be provided within 24 hours after officials completed their assessments.

Asked if the residents would be put in shelters, he said: “Once they’ve completed their assessment, they’ll make that decision.”

A mother of six on Wednesday told The Tribune that she sought refuge in an unfinished building to shelter her one-year-old baby and other children after the fire. The structure was among several dilapidated buildings flooded with water from the rain.

not find security cameras near where the incident occurred, and the officers were not wearing body cameras.

Asked why he never spoke to the victim’s family, he said arrangements were made, but he could not follow through.

“Obviously the family was feeling some type of way and we never connected,” he said.

He said although he knew that Evans’ cousin, Edmund Lee, was at the scene, he never interviewed him.

He also said he never visited Evans’ house to investigate claims that Evans went to a store at his great grand aunt’s request.

Asked if confirming the deceased’s movements before their death was important, he said he didn’t

learn details of Evans’ movements until later after being reassigned. He said he was unsure if anyone continued his investigation.

Yesterday, the court also attended a staging of the shooting of the incident.

Afterwards, Sgt Nathan Dorsett, who stored the weapon collected at the scene in an exhibit control unit, testified in court.

He presented the weapon officers claimed Evans had a Springfield Armoury Auto loaded 40mm pistol with the serial number XD303165.

The jury also saw the bullets and bullet casings collected from the scene.

After confirming the gun was in police custody since the shooting five years ago, Sgt Dorsett said DNA testing was performed on the weapon.

Minnis: No need for alarm over Florida leprosy reports

FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said Bahamians should not be alarmed by a recent international study showing that leprosy cases are rising in Florida.

The report about leprosy in central Florida, which was featured on the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s website, was published by the Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal (EID).

The researchers noted an increase in leprosy cases in Florida, pointing “to

rising evidence that leprosy has become endemic in the southeastern United States.”

Dr Minnis said The Bahamas had not detected a case of leprosy in over 30 years. “We have not had a case in over 30 years, but in either event, the doctor’s medical team are well trained, and they would know of leprosy. But at this point in time, I don’t think we should be particularly concerned about it since it’s a result of prolonged exposure. It’s not just contact of quick exposure. It’s prolonged exposure, a year or more.”

Still, he cautioned doctors to be on the alert.

“Doctors would know that it’s an endemic in Florida, and it’s a slight increase in the Florida area,” he said, “and therefore, you would just look out and keep a keen eye because it results from prolonged contact so it’s not just going to Florida to visit and come back. No, you don’t get it like that. You must be exposed to the individual for a very long time.” After a period of decline, leprosy cases have gradually risen since the 2000s, researchers said.

“According to the

National Hansen’s Disease Programme, 159 new cases were reported in the United States in 2020; Florida was among the top reporting states,” the letter states.

Central Florida, a popular destination for Bahamians, accounted for 81 per cent of cases reported in Florida and almost one-fifth of cases reported in the US. Whereas leprosy in the United States previously affected persons who had immigrated from leprosyendemic areas, 34 per cent of new case patients during 2015–2020 appeared to have locally acquired the disease.

‘25 CENT BUS FARE RISE? NOT APPROVED BY US,’ SAYS MINISTRY

from page one

However, in a statement last night, the ministry denied this and said a series of public consultations will be held to determine the way forward.

The ministry said the government had not deliberated on a date to implement an increase in fares.

“As a demonstration of the ministry’s sensitivity to the plight of franchise owners and bus drivers, relief was provided through

ALIV SPONSORS CONFERENCE

ALIV recently took part as a bronze sponsor in the 38th annual Conference and Trade Exhibition hosted by CANTO, the long-standing telecommunications trade organisation in the Caribbean. The event, held in July in Miami, Florida, attracted industry leaders and experts across the region.

ALIV also showcased Ring Smart Home Security products at the event. ALIV is the official distributor of Ring in The Bahamas.

John Gomez, the chief ALIV officer, said: “Our showcase of Ring products at the CANTO conference signals a new chapter in home security. This is more than just a product demonstration - it’s an introduction to a more secure, connected future for our customers. We are thrilled to bring these cutting-edge solutions to the people of the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean region as the official Ring distributor.”

licensing fee waivers in October 2022 and May 2023,” the ministry said.

“In short order, a series of public consultations will be held with a view to creating a more modern and reliable public bus system in New Providence.

“The consultations will include a further review of fares, passenger safety and service standards.

“Discussions will continue with all stakeholders on various proposals while ensuring that public transportation remains affordable to all users.”

Bus drivers have been demanding a fare increase. Their union previously proposed increasing fares for adults from $1.25 to $2, for seniors from 75 cents to $1, and for junior and senior high school students from $1 to 1.25.

Yesterday, some bus passengers said they would support a fare increase.

“I don’t feel any way about it because they are working for their money, so if I want to get to work, I’ll get to work,” said one woman at a bus stop on Bay Street.

THANK YOU GIFT TO SCHOOL

THANKS to a donation by The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Anglican Cursillo Ministry, four classrooms on the H Block of St Anne’s School were outfitted with ductless air

condition units last month. The school board installed hurricane-proof windows to ensure the efficient operation of the units. These classrooms, along with the adjacent

bathrooms, have been used by the Cursillo Ministry for years when they host Men and Women Cursillo Weekends in a long-standing partnership with the school. Principal Quinn

“Now that doesn’t mean it’s not rough. It is rough, but everybody has it rough. So, a $1.50 won’t mean nothing.”

“Now the bus system has to get fixed. I feel a lot of ways about that, and they have to take some of these drivers off the road that don’t have no courtesy. Now that’s what I have a problem with. I don’t have a problem paying $1.50.”

Another passenger said: “I really agree with them. They need it. They really need it.”

McCartney said: “In September, our students will return to these renovated and air-conditioned classrooms. It is hoped that through the generosity of others, the remaining classrooms in the H Block, and other classrooms, will be air conditioned.

“The principal, faculty, staff and especially our students of St Anne’s School sincerely thank the Cursillo Ministry for their gift.”

The Cursillo Ministry focuses on showing Christian laypeople how to become effective Christian leaders over the course of a three-day weekend.

The weekend includes 15 talks, called rollos, which are given by priests and by laypeople. The major emphasis of the weekend is to ask participants to take what they have learned back into the world, on what is known as the “fourth day”.

RALLY EVENT

A RALLY will be held tomorrow at Christie Park calling for an end to sexual violence against women and children.

The event will run from 6pm-8pm, and will include guest speakers, live performances and refreshments. Organisers include the Gang Reduction Intervention Programme and International Men’s Day Bahamas.

For details, contact Apostle Henry Higgins on 803-4423.

Senior officer: Link between runaways and unlawful sex

A TOP police officer highlighted the connection between runaways and unlawful sexual intercourse activities, saying most young people reported

missing are engaging in sexual acts.

“As relates to incidents occurring as relates to sexual offences, we have seen a direct correlation between unlawful sexual intercourse and runaways,” said Assistant Superintendent Altida Bowles, who

works in the sexual offences department of the police force.

“You will find that you have young ladies or young males leaving home, and you will see they have been reported as missing. For the majority of the times, they are runaways engaging in

COVID ‘ISOLATION’ HINDERS STUDENTS

sexual intercourse. During our summer months, you will see there are increases and has been for history increase during the summer months a rise in unlawful sexual intercourse. We have children off from school, and there’s no proper supervision, and without supervision, they say when the cat’s away, the rats will play.”

ASP Bowles was among several police officers who discussed sex-related offences during an Office of the Prime Minister briefing yesterday.

“We need to understand who our kids are involved with,” she said. “One thing I see that most parents do not do is pay attention to their children’s social media interactions.

“You’ll find that in the summer, the children are being babysat by the internet and by their phones. In our investigations, we get a lot of our evidence from phones, off those laptops. So as a parent, it’s not that you’re trying to be

intrusive, you really need to monitor those social media. You need, at times to check the phones, check the tablet, see what’s going on.

“Look at your environment, it’s important to understand you cannot bring everyone into your child’s life. If you’re a single parent, and you’re interested in someone, you have to do some investigation on that person, not automatically bring the child into the home. And we’ve had a number of cases where the predator was invited in the home because this is mommy’s boyfriend, or this is dad’s girlfriend, and they have taken advantage of the child. So proper vetting of that individual you are bringing into the home is very important.”

The sexual assault of a nine-year-old girl on Saturday has once again put this crime in the spotlight.

The young girl was reportedly playing with friends outside her home when a man in a white Nissan Skyline told her

to get in his vehicle. The man allegedly took her to an unknown location and assaulted her.

Police have since arrested a 42-year-old man from Summerset Estate in connection with the incident.

Police Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings noted that parents could be imprisoned for being careless with their children.

“We have in the past reported incidents where parents were placed before the courts,” she said. “I think we need to highlight it more when we do put the parents before the courts, parents who fail to provide the adequate environment and the safety for their children. We have taken a zero-tolerance approach.”

“From this day forward, you need to ensure that your children are properly monitored and properly secured with responsible adults, as failure to do so will result in them being placed before the courts,” CSP Skippings said.

from page one

Mrs McCartney-Russell’s comment came as the ministry prepares to test students again for learning loss in September and November.

Like the previous exercise, which revealed that 40 per cent of the 40,000-plus students needed remediation, there will be two rounds of testing.

“The remediation being offered now is individualised, it’s targeted, it’s personal per child, and so our team members, as well as Renaissance, was assisting us with this process,” Mrs McCartney-Russell said during a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday.

Renaissance Learning Incorporated is a private international learning analytics company with which the ministry has partnered to provide assessment tests.

Mrs McCartney-Russell said though the ministry has seen “some gains” from its remediation programmes, it is too early to discuss the successes of the programme.

“Although it is, in my estimation, a little bit too quick for us to say, you know, it has gone up 10 per

cent,” she said, referring to learning recovery.

“Right now, we want to ensure that we fulfil the entire programme, and so that means that we have to do those two other rounds of testing and two other rounds of remediation to be able to give a good picture of what’s going on on the ground.”

In the meantime, she said the ministry would continue training employees and hiring more people to support its intervention programmes after uncovering additional gaps caused by the pandemic.

“We would,” she said, “have discovered that not only did our children present knowledge and skills gaps, but there were communication gaps. There were motivational gaps. There were environmental gaps after the pandemic. And so as a result of that, we saw the need to ensure that students have access to training that allows them to develop their emotional intelligence and, of course, their well-being, and so we’re seeking to provide child-friendly spaces.

“We’re seeking to use art therapy, all of that to ensure that they are well, as well as to ensure that they have empathy and sympathy towards their peers, and,

of course, towards their teachers.”

Additionally, the ministry plans to focus heavily on curriculum reform, with officials looking to strengthen key areas of study at the primary school level, including literacy, numeracy, civics and the performing arts.

“We’re also seeking, particularly because of the pandemic, how we can ensure that we provide more experiential, more authentic learning than science, and so we’re asking our team members to provide access to field trips, more hands-on learning,” Mrs McCartney-Russell said.

In terms of recruitment, she said 344 teachers had been recruited so far for the school year, but more are needed.

“There is an additional need for 55 teachers in specific areas, language arts, mathematics, science, physical education, social studies, modern languages, computer studies, visual and performing arts and the recruitment exercise is ongoing,” she said.

“We’re presently waiting for the vetting of those teachers and we are working on their geographical allowances, rent, etc, so that they are ready to go come the opening of school.”

LGBT ON CURRICULUM - BUT ONLY TO TEACH ‘WHAT IS OUT THERE’

ACTING Director of Education Dominique

McCartney-Russell said making students aware of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community is a part of the education curriculum.

However, she said, students are not taught that being a part of the LGBT community represents an “alternative lifestyle” for them. She was asked about

LGBT issues during an Office of the Prime Minister press briefing yesterday.

In our health and family life education programme, our students are aware of all of the issues surrounding education and so they will be aware of what LGBT means,” she said. “They are aware of, even in our religious studies curriculum, of loving people regardless of who they are and so students have that awareness. It’s in our curriculum in the sense that students know what is out there.”

“When you look at

the health and family life education, for example, students would be aware of what LGBT means, you know, what that community stands for. We’re not teaching it as okay, this is an alternative lifestyle for you, but we want them to know what is in their midst.”

“For example, in our religious studies curriculum, we teach the different religions. We teach what is out there, not necessarily for students to participate but to know what is there. Just what I said: definitions, basically.”

The Tribune Limited

Haitian skepticism over Kenya offer

HAITIANS are expressing skepticism over an offer by Kenya to lead an international police force aimed at combatting the gang violence that has wracked the Caribbean nation.

They say the sexual abuse and a devastating cholera outbreak that have accompanied foreign forces in past decades don’t inspire much trust. But Haitians also say uncontrolled bloodshed in their country leaves them with few other options.

Florence Casimir, an elementary school teacher, said that while past international interventions have damaged Haiti, their abuses don’t compare to the brutality of gangs, which kidnap her students and force parents to pay hefty ransoms.

“It will never be better (than past interventions), but the Haitian people don’t have a choice at this point,” Casimir said. “The Haitian people can’t fight it on their own.”

After Prime Minister Ariel Henry urged the world in October to deploy an armed force to fight the gangs, the United Nations has struggled to convince a nation to lead efforts to restore the order in the Caribbean country, in part due to past controversy over peacekeeping missions. There’s been little appetite for a US- or UN-led force, and the United States unsuccessfullt tried to persuade Canada to lead a force.

As the search continued, gang warfare continued to worsen, leading to a wave of hundreds of kidnappings and the emergence of vigilante forces taking justice into their own hands.

Today, armed groups control an estimated 80% of Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince.

Kenya has offered to send 1,000 police officers to help train and assist an overwhelmed Haitian police force, saying it hopes to “restore normalcy in the country.” This week, the United States said it will put forward a resolution to the U.N. Security Council to authorise the force.

“This is not a traditional peacekeeping force,” the US ambassador at the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said at a news conference.

Kenya’s proposal has sparked debate among Haitians, many of whom distrust international interventions after the failures and abuses of UN peacekeeping missions over the decades.

Haitians saw rounds of foreign interventions throughout the 1900s, often a response by nations like the US to political instability in Haiti.

In some cases, such missions helped ease chaos and in the 1990s led to the creation of the Haitian National Police.

But successes are often overshadowed by scars that Haitians carry with them from abuses that came with those missions.

A UN peacekeeping mission from 2004 to 2017 was plagued with allegations of mass sexual abuse, including

claims that peacekeepers raped and impregnated girls as young as 11. Investigations by The Associated Press found evidence of high levels of impunity.

In 2010, sewage runoff from a UN peacekeeper camp into the country’s biggest river started a cholera epidemic that killed nearly 10,000 people.

“They left a bitter taste in the mouths of the Haitian people,” said Valdo Cenè, who sells cooking gas. “Bringing in international forces could mean repeating our history.”

This international police force would not be a UN force. So if deployed, Kenyan police would be in charge rather than answer to a UN force commander as they would be required to do in a UN peacekeeping mission.

Haiti’s prime minister said Tuesday that he spoke with Kenyan President William Ruto to thank Kenya for the “demonstration of fraternal solidarity.” Henry said Kenya plans to send a task force in the coming weeks to assess the mission’s operational requirements.

Haitians aren’t the only ones questioning the plan. Watch dog groups are raising alarms about the human rights track record of police in Kenya, saying the force may export their abuse.

Police in the East African nation have been long accused of killings and torture, including gunning down civilians during Kenya’s COVID-19 curfew. One local group said officers fatally shot more than 30 people during protests in July, all of them in Kenya’s poorest neighborhoods.

Louis-Henri Mars, head of the Haitian grassroots peacekeeping organization Lakou Lapè, echoed those concerns.

“People are puzzled about this,” Mars said. “It may just become just another big mess.”

While Mars is among many who say a Kenyan force would be an important step to stabilising Haiti, he expressed hope its deployment will be a temporary effort that paves the way to a longer process of untangling rampant violence in Haiti, such as the kidnapping of an American nurse and her daughter.

Haiti needs to build a stable and trustworthy police force and provide a pathway to restorative justice for victims and former gang members, often young men pulled into the violence around them, Mars said.

Others, like Jerthro Antoine, say Kenya’s police can’t come soon enough.

The cellphone repairman said he dreams of once again setting foot on one of Haiti’s beaches, but violence in his country has gotten so bad that even walking on the street is a risk.

“I feel trapped in my home. Any foreign force in support of Haitian police is more than welcome,” Antoine said.

“The Haitian people need it, we need a break and to have a life again.”

A salute to Chester Cooper

AS THE Bahamas struggles to come to the reality of its challenging infrastructure, Family Island airports, and many modern challenges of a young nation.

Chester Cooper, Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation, has once again taken the lead in the transformation of what used to be The World Famous Downtown Bay Street.

Once known to the world for its elite branded shops, 24 hour entertainment, upscale restaurants from around the world, the renowned tourist destination second to none, and the economic shopping hub for locals and visitors during the heyday of our colonial past.

The Renaissance of Bay Street has begun.

In his remarkable successful career from Forbes Hill, Exuma, to the top of the corporate ladder, Mr Cooper has embarked on a well-planned, bold, ambitious strategic surgical transformation of the heart of our tourist reality.

The challenge before him will put him on a “national battlefield” far beyond any corporate boardroom which he has conquered successfully.

The internal and external stakeholders coupled with “the political conch salad” of Bay Street will require an individual that Rudyard Kipling wrote about in his poem “If“.

Chester Cooper will have to “keep his head about him while others may lose their heads and blaming it on him, he will have to walk with kings, but never lose the common touch”.

He will face his greatest challenge as a politician and a Bahamian.

Recreating and modernising the eastern side of downtown will be like removing a patient from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a hospital, and rushing that patient into the Emergency Operating Theatre to perform the greatest successful surgery in this modern Bahamas.

The announcement to finally clean up Bay Street came with a breath of fresh air, but with mounting national scepticism.

Many Bahamians have complained about the unsightly deteriorating buildings, the continuous unfortunate flooding, the harassment of our guests, our rude taxi drivers fighting in front of tourists, and the rodents that seem to have taken over. The same applies to the Junkanoo Beach and Arawak Cay areas.

As many Bahamians saw the transformation of the once quaint pleasant atmosphere of Arawak Cay destroyed, dominated by unsightly commercial boat repair shops, many decorated and some unregulated down home eateries known as “The Fish Fry” popping up, some sadly with extremely unsanitary conditions, and finally, a national container port that transformed the entire tourist experience into a chaotic vehicular nightmare of unforgiving traffic, dust, loud vehicular noise, truckers dominating the road

lanes, and the accelerated potential for several dangerous vehicular accidents on a daily basis.

The welcome and massive removal of condemned structures, the replacement of unsightly deteriorating and dilapidated buildings, the creation of a safe atmosphere for both tourists and locals will be the most extremely challenging, but inviting, and a refreshing renaissance since the visionary spirit and implementation of the tourism model we still use today created by the late Sir Stafford Sands, improved by Clement Maynard and maintained by many ministers that followed.

The time has come for a young visionary to lead this modern change without fear or favour.

To simply do what is right, without compromising what is in the best interest of our country.

The Davis administration without question has put the right minister for this reason, and for this season to bring The Bay Street Renaissance to reality.

All Bahamians should be in support of this most needed infrastructure restoration project and the rebranding of Bay Street.

We encourage Minister Cooper and his team to make the difference. Minister Cooper will have the support of The Bahamian people, because we all want to make it truly and unconditionally, “Better in The Bahamas” for future generations to come.

ANTHONY U

BOSTWICK

Nassau, August 3, 2023

Government and renewables

EDITOR, The Tribune.

ON THE momentous occasion of The Bahamas’ 50th anniversary of Independence when we reflect upon our nation’s progress and contemplate the path forward, we believe our government must make a bold and visionary decision to declare its commitment to renewable energy as the driving source for energy generation while transitioning from a heavy dependence on oil for the betterment of our beloved islands.

Climate change is an undeniable reality that threatens the entire world. We have witnessed recordbreaking temperatures in many parts of the globe,

leading to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and damage to precious ecosystems. The effects of climate change have already begun to impact our islands, with increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes and the erosion of our coastlines.

Moreover, our dependence on oil has posed economic challenges for our nation. The rising oil price has strained our economy, burdening our citizens with escalating energy costs. The inconsistent power supply is jeopardising businesses and hurting families.

Our Prime Minister, Philip Davis, has expressed confidence in our ability to transition to renewable energy sources. He has set

an ambitious target of achieving 30 per cent renewable energy generation by 2030, with the hope of surpassing that goal.

We commend the Prime Minister for his commitment to tackling climate change and embracing renewable energy. However, declaring independence from oil would be a watershed moment that showcases our government’s unwavering dedication to saving our beautiful islands for generations to come. It is an opportunity to demonstrate global leadership and inspire climate action.

By transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, we can significantly reduce

our greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate the effects of climate change, and improve our lives. The abundant sunshine, wind, and ocean currents that grace our shores are a natural advantage for harnessing renewable energy. Embracing clean energy technologies would protect our environment, create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and enhance energy security.

We are grateful to the Prime Minister for displaying his commitment to environmental preservation by signing the World Ocean Day Proclamation in June. Now, we implore the government to take the next critical step by setting The Bahamas on a path to

declaring independence from oil. The transition will take time, but climate change won’t wait. The last thing we should do is encourage additional investment in a failing fossil fuel economy. First and foremost, this transition should include a ban on oil drilling in our islands and waters.

By leading the way in declaring independence from oil, The Bahamas can inspire other nations to embrace sustainable practices and spearhead the fight against climate change. We can set an example for the world, demonstrating our commitment to preserving our natural heritage and securing a brighter future for future generations.

On this historic occasion, let us rise above our challenges and seize the opportunity to create a sustainable and resilient future for The Bahamas. Let us declare independence from oil, implement a ban on drilling, and pave the way towards a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous nation. Together, we can make The Bahamas a beacon of hope and a global leader in renewable energy.

RASHEMA INGRAHAM, Executive director, Waterkeepers Bahamas

CASUARINA

MCKINNEY-LAMBERT Executive eirector, BREEF August 3, 2023

Pintard spells out hopes for Grand Lucayan buyer

FREE National Movement leader Michael Pintard said he hopes the Davis administration’s new potential buyers for the Grand Lucayan resort are up to scratch.

Mr Pintard emphasised four traits a new investor should have.

“Well, one is the investor’s vision for the hotel should be fairly consistent with the overall vision for how the country in general, and Grand Bahama in particular, how we wish to brand ourselves as a tourist destination,” Mr Pintard said. “So it should be a project that is sensitive to the local environment.”

“The second thing apart from the environmental component is it should be infused with Bahamian culture in aspects of the design that they call in terms of some of what adorns the walls or design surrounding the property, the sounds that people hear that is the music, the cuisine should be an integral part of it.

“The third thing is the developer must not only have adequate resources to purchase, but tremendous resources to invest in the refurbishment because it is conceivable that there could be a lower purchase price that’s not completely off the table. But it really depends on what’s going to be the dollar figure you eventually invest in the property.

“And then the final thing I will mention, though there are others, is that we’re looking for hoteliers, operators and owners who also appreciate Bahamians are interested in ownership and so there are certain amenities in the hotel that should

be reserved for Bahamians, particularly the water spots.

“They should have access to the stores that’s going to make up the promenade, where the stores would be located, so that Bahamians are not merely observers and employees or patrons but they are also owners of certain amenities that would be made available in the hotel,” he said.

Mr Pintard also questioned whether the government is considering potential buyers that were shortlisted in the past, given the previous administration vetted them.

“We knew when we were in the chair,” he said, “the then Grand Lucayan Holdings had a number of potential buyers that were looking at the hotel. It would be helpful if the

government would indicate whether or not it has gone through the historical list and have shortlisted any of those persons or have all of them been explored and discarded. Who makes up the new list of potential investors in the property?

“The public that did a lot of the vetting of the groups that were on the shortlist and could have told as they did in the public domain, the government, the misgivings some segments of the public had with the last company that the government had settled on. There was clear commentary in the public domain that raised the red flag, so it is in the government’s interest to be transparent.”

In November 2022, the $100m sale of the Grand Lucayan to Electra

MONTHS IN JAIL OVER UNLICENCED FIREARM

A MAN on bail for murder was sentenced to 24 months in prison after admitting to having an unlicensed gun in his room in Gambier Village last week.

Magistrate Lennox

Coleby charged Takeyo “Keyo” Poitier, 21, with possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition. Poitier’s mother and brother, Shanequa Poitier, 41, and Cedric Sears, 18, were his co-accused.

Levon Johnson represented them.

Police, acting on a search warrant, entered the defendants’ residence in Gambier Village on July 29. Officers recovered a black 40mm Springfield pistol in Takeyo’s room. The weapon was also found with three rounds of 40mm ammunition.

At the time of his arrest, Poitier was on bail charged with murder. He is accused of killing Shanton Johnson outside his home in Gambier Village during a botched break-in in 2022.

Poitier admitted to having a gun in his room for his protection in a subsequent police interview. He was the sole

defendant to plead guilty to the offence in court. He said he pleaded guilty to prevent his mother from going to jail. The charges against his co-accused were consequently withdrawn.

In his mitigation plea, Mr Johnson said his young client was employed in construction and pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. In addition to noting Poitier’s remorse, the attorney asked that an 18-month sentence be imposed on his client.

Poitier was sentenced to 24 months in prison and was informed of his right to appeal his sentencing within seven days.

ACCUSED OVER DOUBLE SHOOTING

A MAN is behind bars after being charged with a double shooting off Peter Street that left a 33-year-old man dead last weekend.

Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain charged Ethan Francis, 25,

with murder and attempted murder.

Francis is accused of approaching Lucson Paul and Ambrose Jones as they stood outside Paul’s residence on Peter Street after the suspect emerged from a track road on July 30. He allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot the two men before fleeing the scene on

foot around 10.30am that day.

While the 23-year-old Jones recovered at the hospital, Mr Paul, 33, was pronounced dead upon arrival at Princess Margaret Hospital. Francis’ case will be moved to the Supreme Court by a voluntary bill of indictment due for service on October 19.

GUNPOINT ROBBERY ACCUSATION

A MAN was remanded in custody on Thursday after being accused of robbing a man at gunpoint while walking near CC Sweeting High School last week.

Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain

charged Kevin Pennerman, 45, with armed robbery and receiving.

Pennerman is accused of robbing Evan Bain of $300 cash at gunpoint as he was walking in the CC Sweeting Sr High School area on July 28. The accused was arrested on July 30 after he was found

America Hospitality Group collapsed.

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper has said he would not disclose information about the sale process until a deal has been secured.

“We hope that this hotel deal or potential deal becomes a kind of a cautionary tale or case study for emerging policymakers,” Mr Pintard said.

‘We knew when we were in the chair the then Grand Lucayan Holdings had a number of potential buyers that were looking at the hotel. It would be helpful if the government would indicate whether or not it has gone through the historical list and have shortlisted any of those persons or have all of them been explored and discarded.’

with $150, which authorities suspected was stolen. The accused was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. His case will be transferred to the Supreme Court by a voluntary bill of indictment set for service on October 9.

Thriving beyond the storm

SHENIQUE Smith is the proud proprietor of “Neek’s Eats and Treats,” a quaint, down-home restaurant just beyond the beautiful waterfront in Tarpum Bay, Eleuthera. If you are fortunate enough to visit and enjoy a mouthwatering meal, two things will immediately stand out, the authentic Bahamian cuisine delightfully reminiscent of grandma’s “down home” cooking and Shenique’s warm and welcoming hospitality. Behind her light-hearted demeanor is a woman of grit and resilience who has successfully weathered some storms.

As a female entrepreneur in her mid-thirties, Shenique is holding her own and is keenly focused on taking her culinary dreams to their fullest potential. Looking at her thriving business and exuberant smile, it’s pretty astonishing to think that just four short years ago, Shenique experienced one of the greatest seasons of loss and devastation in her life. It was on September 1, 2019, that Hurricane Dorian struck the northwest Bahamas, completely flattening her hometown of Murphy Town, Abaco.

As one of the strongest Atlantic Hurricanes on record, Dorian was unprecedented and bore down the hardest on Abaco and Grand Bahama. It caused extreme flooding and mass destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure while leaving a tragic trail of heartache and human loss. According to the Inter-American Development Bank’s assessment, damages were estimated at $3.4bn, equal to one-quarter of The Bahamas’ GDP.

In the aftermath, thousands of people and families were left devastated, homeless, and unable to support themselves.

Shenique admits that it is traumatic to recall the chaos and terror of the storm even now. Having to scramble from her roofless, flooded house with her children in tow, searching for shelter as the eye of the Hurricane passed over her settlement, and seeing countless others desperately doing the same is still understandably jarring for her. Within 72 hours of the storm’s landfall, her life was utterly and irrevocably changed.

She was uprooted from her home, stripped of her business and every possession she owned, and separated from her family.

As conditions on the ground worsened, her family worked feverishly to get relatives off the island, one by one, to safety.

Her family was among thousands of shell-shocked and exhausted evacuees who narrowly escaped death.

Now they were facing what seemed to be insurmountable odds, having to figure out the survival plan and wondering how they would ever be able to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives and move forward.

Shenique vividly recalls arriving at North Eleuthera when things started to look up, and she finally felt an overwhelming sense of relief. She was received warmly by the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) team and reunited with her two young daughters and eight additional family members who had also been evacuated from Abaco.

The entire family was transported to The Retreat Hotel, a social enterprise and training hotel operated by OEF in Rock Sound.

The property had become a place of refuge and was transformed into a “home base” for the evacuees who were now arriving on

Eleuthera by the hun dreds. For nearly six months, OEF took the lead in orches trating and providing housing, transpor tation, daily meals, personal items, clothing, supplies, support, and coun seling services for approximately six hundred evacuees, including Shenique and her family.

The hotel’s restaurant was transformed into a cafeteria, providing evacuees with three daily meals and snacks, and a pantry was set up to stockpile and distribute food items and groceries. Professional counseling services were provided to help individuals, children, and families cope with the psychological and emotional impact of the storm. Activities were organised on the property to keep the children engaged as team members and community volunteers began working together to gather uniforms and school supplies for the children to be enrolled in local schools.

Additionally, nearby rental homes, hotels, and vacant apartments were commissioned to house the growing number of displaced people and keep families together.

It was a complex operation involving local and international partnerships and dedicated community volunteers.

The OEF team took great care in supporting the varying needs of the evacuees to help restore stability and a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible.

In the ensuing weeks, some of the evacuees were provided with employment by OEF according to their skill sets. Over a dozen people were hired for the organisation’s social enterprises, including the restaurant and farm. Other jobs were sourced within the community for those prepared to stay on Eleuthera.

Shenique was one of the persons hired as a Line Cook in the restaurant. She was later promoted to Sous Chef.

For her, it was the perfect segue and an essential first step in rebuilding her life, livelihood, and dreams.

OEF’s ability to quickly mobilise and be fully responsive to the needs of those most affected by Dorian, like Shenique, illuminates the crucial role that local nonprofits and disaster relief agencies can play in times of crisis to provide immediate and ongoing aid to their communities following a disaster.

Local agencies and non-profits have much to offer and can play a valuable role in the disaster recovery process. Other supporting factors to consider are their:

1. Quick Response: Local organisations tend to be deeply connected to their communities, allowing them to respond quickly when disaster strikes. They have a finger on the pulse regarding local needs, infrastructure, and resources, giving them the leverage to mobilise rapidly and efficiently.

2. Local Knowledge: Local organisations understand the unique challenges and vulnerabilities of the affected communities. They are better equipped to identify and prioritise the most urgent needs and

tailor their aid to meet the specific needs of each community and subgrouping.

3. Trust and Community Engagement: Local organisations have established trust within their communities and with key stakeholders, which can lead to better communications and cooperation in delivering and fairly distributing resources.

4. Access to Remote Areas: In a disaster, some areas can be restricted due to damaged infrastructure. Being familiar with the “lay of the land” means that local organisations are better positioned to navigate challenges and find solutions with the available resources to reach remote or isolated communities with urgent assistance.

5. Flexibility and Adaptability: Flexibility and adaptability are vital in the critical hours, days, and weeks following a disaster. Faced with rapidly changing needs and circumstances, a local agency can quickly pivot and adjust its strategy to address the challenges that arise moment by moment on the ground.

6. Cost Effectiveness:

Being based within the community can result in lower overhead costs compared to larger international organizations. This allows more efficient use of the resources to make a direct impact.

7. Cultural Sensitivity: Being part of the local community, a locally based organisation is more attuned to cultural norms and sensitivities.

It is important to note that the most successful relief efforts involve a combination of local, national, and international support, with each entity contributing its unique strengths to help affected communities recover and rebuild faster. Many of these same strengths also make thirdsector organisations like OEF adept at community development.

To see Shenique now – flourishing and reclaiming what once seemed lost is a testimony to her personal faith, determination, hard work, and resilience, as well as the power of a community, government agencies, and local and international nonprofits and humanitarian organizations to band together to

deliver critical resources in times of crisis. She says, “I am forever grateful for the support and help available to me and my family, as well as the countless other Hurricane Dorian evacuees in our time of need.”

She has come a long way in four years and has thrived beyond the storm. Her restaurant is a bustling community spot that

contributes to the local economy.

Tourists and locals regularly gather there to enjoy a delicious meal and rich cultural exchanges centered around their love of Bahamian flavors and, of course, Shenique’s signature recipes. She has plans to one day expand her business throughout Eleuthera.

Suppose we could feed ourselves? One farmer says we can

WHAT could The Bahamas do with an extra billion dollars a year – build two new hospitals? Upgrade schools and fund after-school programmes? Pay down the national debt, boost social services to better serve the elderly and disabled?

A billion dollars or more – that’s what we are told that we dish out annually in food imports with the main beneficiary being the US. We are so accustomed to importing what we eat we take it for granted that the cheese in the food store has a foreign label, the meat was shipped in, the milk and orange juice and melons come from Florida or California or Mexico. We accept the fact that fast-food restaurants pack carefully curated burgers, fries, tenders and tacos provided and monitored by their franchiser.

We boast about Bahamian fare. Yet how much of that Bahamian fare is actually Bahamian if 90 percent of all the food we consume is imported? Is it the recipe that is Bahamian while the food is not? If chicken is unofficially called the national bird, how much of that chicken is bred, raised and slaughtered in The Bahamas? It is not all doom and gloom, there is good news when it comes to taking a bite at that food import bill. Thanks to recent efforts by the Ministry

of Agriculture & Marine Resources, BAMSI and the Agricultural Development Organization (ADO), we are moving in the right direction. More of us are dabbling in backyard farming, more schools and communities are engaged in planting. There’s even a gradual uptick in commercial farming. While we inch slowly getting back to doing what came naturally to our forebearers - growing what we eat and eating what we grow - a sole farmer is urging us to go further, faster. His may be a voice

in the hinterlands but it’s one of hope. He believes The Bahamas can feed itself and if anyone knows what it takes to farm, to live through storms, to plant and re-plant and pray and harvest, it’s Nick Maioulis. Founder of Abaco Neem, Maioulis has been tilling the soil, planting trees, cultivating everything from bees to greens, seeds to coconuts and neem in all its uses for more than 34 years. That’s longer than over half of the population of The Bahamas has been alive. Maioulis and his wife, Daphne DeGregory Maioulis, live very simply on the 120 acres they lease from government on Ernestine Highway in Abaco. Through constant vigilance of soil and water, they run the only certified organic farm in The Bahamas. “We CAN feed ourselves in this country,” insists Nick, worrying the red bandana that by end of another hot day in the field has paid the price for keeping the sun off his neck while he was running the tractor or hauling water. There are more than 120 varieties of tropical fruit trees and shrubs on the farm in addition to the neem that is ground, pounded, churned and turned into teas, soaps, oils and more. Farmer Nick is not alone in believing that The Bahamas can up its game in growing while lowering its expenditure for imports. Think about this statement by ADO’s executive chairman Philip Smith who after 17 years of feeding the needy turned his energy and attention to agriculture.

“There will always be a need to feed but with a billion dollars a year food import bill and with so many processed foods contributing to the poor health of the population, we must focus on a return to farming as an honest and honourable way of life and to backyard and community farming as

“While we inch slowly getting back to doing what came naturally to our forebearersgrowing what we eat and eating what we grow - a sole farmer is urging us to go further, faster. His may be a voice in the hinterlands but it’s one of hope.”

a means to grow what we eat,” Smith said. Smith and Farmer Nick are probably both right in thinking we can and we need to feed ourselves, but whether we are willing to give up the brands we have learned to look for is another story. Still, the thought of some part of a billion dollars a year staying in The Bahamas and a population that is healthier is surely an idea worth digesting.

50/50 is more than fair – there’s treasure in the deep turquoise sea of The Bahamas There’s a misnomer that the Bahamas Senate is for the nearly dead and newly bred but whoever coined that must not have been watching Senate proceedings lately. In the Senate on Friday, July 28, the discourse was not only reassuring, it changed policy for good for the Bahamian people.

Chief among the matters was legislation affecting the percentage Bahamians and treasure hunters would get from the goods and gold in what was called the undersea culture of The Bahamas. For decades, the spoils have gone to the hunters, 75 percent to the finder and 25 percent to The Bahamas. It was a kind of adult finders’ keepers, losers’ weeper trade-off. But with the passage of new legislation, it’s 50-50, half for those who go to the deep pocket expense of exploration and half for the country in which the exploration took place. We may never know how much ‘undersea culture’ lies on reefs and in the sparkling deep turquoise and emerald waters of a nation of islands scattered throughout 100,000 square miles of open ocean. We may never fully recover the unintended deposits of ships that wrecked on reefs or were victims of storms, rogue waves, mutiny or mayhem in the days of sea transport of rich cargo and fabled dreams. But with the revised split between those who seek the buried treasure and those whose watery backyard it was buried in, The Bahamas stands a bit taller, prouder and richer, thanks in part to the Senate that sealed the deal after the AG’s office drafted the legislation and MPs passed it. As small as the Senate contingent was, every contribution mattered and under the leadership of Sen. Michael Halkitis, we achieved an equitable result. Rarely do I dabble in anything to do with politics and never do I take partisan sides but watching the proceedings live inured a renewed sense of the relevance of the Bahamas Senate, the history Senators brought to the matters before them and the impressive combination of passion and restraint they displayed.

CANCER SOCIETY OF THE BAHAMAS

THIS month, The Cancer Society of The Bahamas is raising awareness of nonHodgkin’s Lymphoma — a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which, as a major part of the broader immune system, helps to protect our bodies against infection.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma occurs when lymphocytes, the white blood cells that create antibodies and destroy germs, begin to grow uncontrollably and collect in parts of the lymphatic system, such as the lymph nodes.

When the growth of these abnormal lymphocytes, which cannot efficiently fight diseases, outpaces the growth of healthy lymphocytes, the immune system weakens, making the body more vulnerable to infection.

• On August 12, the society will hold a free clinic in Bimini, ensuring that all residents on the island gain access to potentially life-saving screening procedures, including PAP smears and breast examinations for women and PSA blood testing and digital examinations for men.

We kindly urge Bimini residents to attend this Free Clinic, starting at 9 am!

• Can you belt high notes like Whitney Houston or Luther Vandross? If so, start warming up your vocal cords, as we’ll be hosting our karaoke and dinner event on Thursday, August 24, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

As the grand finale of this summer’s Survivorship Summer Social, this event will surely be memorable and full of surprises, and we’re inviting all cancer survivors, caregivers, and those still in the fight to join in.

• With their vibrant colors, eye-catching designs, and superior stretch, our newly-arrived cancer awareness leggings will make you look stylish and feel comfortable as you hit the gym or run long errands!

If you want to look stylish and support a great cause,

come and purchase these fashionable leggings at our main office, open Mondays –Fridays from 8am to 4pm.

• Featuring a slew of fun, electrifying dragon boat races, the 2nd Annual Bahamas Dragon Boat Festival will honour breast cancer survivors and take place September 30-October 1, at Goodman’s Bay.

In addition to being entertaining, this weekend-long event will be an excellent bonding activity for friends, families, cancer survivors, corporations, and civic groups, who are all invited to form teams and

paddle for a great cause!

For more information, WhatsApp (242) 426-1001 or visit www.bcdragonboat. com.

ROTARACT CLUB OF EAST NASSAU

On July 31, the Rotaract Club of East Nassau partnered with PACE Bahamas to provide essential baby items including bottles, pacifiers, pampers, toys, and more.

President Camron Reckley noted that July monthly theme for Rotary International was Maternal and Child Health Month.

He said: “We found it fitting to partner with such a great organisation, over the years PACE has helped so many young women in different communities and we wanted to be a part of what they are doing.”

JOIN THE CLUB

OUR Clubs and Societies page is a chance for you to share your group’s activities with our readers.

To feature on our Clubs and Societies page, submit your report to clubs@tribunemedia.net, with “Clubs Page” written in the subject line.

For more information about the page, contact Stephen Hunt on 826-2242.

Additionally, in the month of July, the club also collaborated with the Doctor’s Hospital Rehab Department to conduct a full health screening for the kids at The Ranfurly Home for Children.

The full health screening included hearing screening, basic vitals, and a standard blood pressure check. We also conducted a quick workout session and health talk with the kids.

ROTARY CLUB OF SOUTH-EAST NASSAU

It’s back again - the Annual Edwin Smiley Bastian Steak Out organised by The Rotary Club of South-East Nassau (RCSEN) and Rotaract Club of South-East Nassau Centennial takes place on Saturday, August 19, from noon to 6pm at the Bahamas National Trust. Steak or chicken dinners offered with sides are $15. Tickets can be ordered or picked up from any of the members of the RCSEN. WhatsApp: 557-1584, 4246795 or 808-7701. Part proceeds will help with many of the club’s service projects.

From human rights fears to leading Haiti mission?

NAIROBI, Kenya

Associated Press

AS THE US government was considering Kenya to lead a multinational force in Haiti, it was also openly warning Kenyan police officers against violent abuses. Now 1,000 of those officers might head to Haiti to take on gang warfare.

It’s a challenging turn for a police force long accused by rights watchdogs of killings and torture, including gunning down civilians during Kenya’s COVID-19 curfew. One local group confirmed that officers fatally shot more than 30 people in July, all of them in Kenya’s poorest neighbourhoods, during opposition-called protests over the rising cost of living.

“We are saddened by the loss of life and concerned by high levels of violence, including the use of live rounds” during those protests, the US said in a joint statement with 11 other nations in mid-July.

Now the US, as this month’s president of the UN Security Council, is preparing to put forward a resolution to authorise a mission in Haiti led by Kenyan police, who have relatively little overseas experience in such large numbers and don’t speak French, which is used in Haiti.

“This is not a traditional peacekeeping force,” the US ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said on Tuesday.

For more than nine months, the UN had appealed unsuccessfully for a country to lead an effort to restore order to the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere.

Kenya’s interest was announced on Saturday, with its foreign minister saying his government has “accepted to positively consider” leading a force in Haiti and sending 1,000 police officers to train the Haitian National Police, “restore normalcy” and protect strategic installations.

“Kenya stands with persons of African descent across the world,” Alfred Mutua said. A ministry spokesman didn’t respond to questions about the force or what Kenya would receive in return.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday praised Kenya for simply

considering to serve, a sign of the difficulty in mustering international forces for Haiti, where deadly gang violence has exploded since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

Some organisations that have long tracked alleged police misconduct in Kenya are worried. “We had some consultations with Kenyan (civil society organisations) last week and there was general consensus that Kenya should not be seen to be exporting its abusive police to other parts of the world,”

Otsieno Namwaya, Kenya researcher with Human Rights Watch, told The Associated Press.

Kenya’s security forces have a years-long presence in neighbouring Somalia to counter Islamic extremists — a deadly threat that some Kenyans say should keep police at home — and troops have been in restive eastern Congo since last year. Past UN peacekeeping

deployments include Sierra Leone.

But while other African nations including Rwanda, Ghana and Egypt have thousands of personnel in UN peacekeeping missions, Kenya has less than 450, according to UN data. Just 32 are police officers. The US has a total of 35 personnel in UN peacekeeping missions.

“I have no knowledge of any complaints raised by the UN during those deployments, hence no concern on my end,” the executive director of the watchdog Independent Medico-Legal Unit, Peter Kiama, told the AP. “Remember, the major challenges regarding policing practices in Kenya include political interference with police command and independence, inadequate political will to reform the institution, culture of internal impunity and criminality, and inadequate internal and external accountability.”

With the Haiti deployment, Kenyan police would likely be in charge instead of answering to a UN force commander as in traditional peacekeeping missions.

Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry on Tuesday said he spoke with Kenyan President William Ruto to thank Kenyans for the “demonstration of fraternal solidarity”. Kenya plans to send a task force in the coming weeks to assess the mission’s operational requirements.

“We have to find someone who can help us,” one Port-au-Prince resident, Benice Pierre, said on Wednesday.

At home, Kenya’s police force has received millions of dollars in training and support from the US, European Union and other partners in recent years, with Washington focusing on “promoting police accountability and professionalism”.

But last week, Kenya’s

National Assembly saw a shouted debate, along with demands for a moment of silence, over police actions during the recent protests.

“The kind of brutality that has been meted out on innocent and unarmed civilians in the last couple of months has been unprecedented,” minority leader Opiyo Wandayi said.

“Those youth that you are killing require jobs, not bullets.”

Kenya’s leading opposition party has threatened to gather evidence to submit to the International Criminal Court.

In response, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki said that police have remained “neutral, impartial and professional.” The ministry referred questions about alleged abuses to the police, who haven’t responded.

Ruto, elected president a year ago, at first praised police for their conduct during the protests, but

later warned officers against extrajudicial killings as a public outcry grew.

Problems with Kenya’s police force have long been acknowledged, even by officials.

The National Police Service “does not have a ‘shoot to kill’ policy,” its inspector general, Hilary Mutyambai, said in a submission to a parliamentary inquiry on extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances released in late 2021.

But the government-created Independent Policing Oversight Authority told the inquiry it had received 95 cases of alleged deaths because of police action in the previous seven months alone, noting “continuous abuse of force and firearms occasioning deaths”.

A commissioner with the authority said last month that police weren’t even reporting deaths to the body as required, which is illegal.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 4, 2023

Bodybuilding team set for CAC Games

While funding for travel costs remains a top priority, the Bahamas Bodybuilding Weightlifting and Fitness Federation has released the names of athletes selected to represent the country at the Central American and Caribbean Bodybuilding Championships. The team was selected following the federation’s 50th National Bodybuilding Championships held last month in the Performance Arts Center of the University of the Bahamas.

Named to the team that is expected to compete at the 50th CAC Championships in Aruba from September 21-24 are men’s building - Godfrey Stephen Robinson, Reginald Delancy and Orick Nesbitt; men’s fitness - Briceton Anderson; men’s fitness model - Kareem Brancaccio; women’s fitness figure - Dorcas Cox; men’s physique - Briceton Anderson (Class B), Ricardo Gibson (Class C), Judah Forbes (Class D) and Brandon Bastian (Class F); men’s classic physique - Anthon Moxey (Class B) and Andrew Gibson (Class C) and women’s wellness - Denica Thompson and Andrecka Dames (Class B)

and Ivanique Kemp (Class D).

The team will be managed by Leonardo ‘Nardo’ Dean and coached by Raymond Tucker. Although they don’t have the funds in hand yet, federation president Joel Stubbs said they are cautiously optimistic that Team Bahamas will be among the 41 countries competing at the 50th CAC Games in Aruba.

“The federation has selected a small but elite group of athletes who recently competed and won at the national level. Team Bahamas has always been a force to reckon with and the expectations are the same this year,” Stubbs

said. “In fact, the record books of the CAC reflect that Team Bahamas has consistently ranked high among the top three countries when it comes to the overall medal count.

“I personally feel that the individuals selected stand a very good chance of winning their respective categories and divisions and should return home with not only medals and trophies, but maybe even a pro card or two.”

Stubbs said the athletes, especially the neophytes who competed and graced the stage for the very first time and won their divisions locally, are excited for the opportunity to compete and represent The

SPRINTER TERRENCE JONES GRATEFUL FOR THE SUPPORT

Bahamas internationally. And he thanked Tucker and Dean for the work they have done so far in getting the team to start bonding and detailing the routines for the competition.

“We are still in dire need of financial assistance to get Team Bahamas off to Aruba,” Stubbs stressed. “So again, we are strongly appealing to corporate Bahamas, the Government and anyone who can lend a helping hand and offer financial assistance.

“Last year, the team was not able to compete, and we certainly hope it will not be the case this year. Our athletes really train

FIBA Pre-Olympic Qualifier

EUGENE Horton, president of the Bahamas Basketball Federation (BBF), along with many Bahamians, have high expectations for the stacked 15-man national team.

Team Bahamas released the roster featuring National Basketball Association (NBA) professional players Kai Jones, Chavano ‘Buddy’ Hield and Deandre Ayton this past Monday.

The team will compete in the FIBA (International Basketball Federation) Pre-Olympic Qualifier in Santiago de Estero, Argentina, August 14-20.

The tournament will determine which teams make a final push to solidify their spots at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, all

set for July 26 to August 11.

Horton and other officials are confident in one of the best teams fielded by The Bahamas.

“We are expecting to continue the journey we started a few years ago and, with this team being one of the best assembled, we expect to advance,”

Horton said.

Team Bahamas will compete against Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Panama, Uruguay and the US Virgin Islands in Group A.

The Bahamas will kickoff the basketball action against Cuba on Monday, August 14.

The number 56 ranked team will face an uphill battle as the Group A teams will all be hungry for a win to join the 19 FIBA Basketball World Cup teams.

The teams will then compete in the FIBA Olympic

Qualifying Tournaments next year from July 2-7.

The Bahamas will also field Jaraun ‘Kino’ Burrows, Domnick Bridgewater, Garvin Clarke, Kadeem Coleby, Rashad Davis, Sammy Hunter, Danrad Knowles, Lourawls ‘Tum Tum’ Nairn, Willis Mackey Jr, Franco Miller, Travis Munnings, Kentwan Smith, David Nesbitt, AJ Storr and Mychel Thompson.

With the talent pool being very vast for the team, the president is optimistic about their chances.

“I am very happy, we are confident that once we were able to get to this stage, the NBA and other professional players along with the coaching staff would make themselves available, invest their time, and make The Bahamas proud,” Horton said. One notable name missing from the roster is Eric

Gordon, who was initially included in the list of NBA players to play for The Bahamas but there are some ongoing complications.

“We are still hopeful that Mr Gordon will be available to represent Team Bahamas.

“But some administrative details need to be worked out with USA Basketball,” the president added.

The team will get warmed up at training camp in Puerto Rico from August 3-10 where they will play in two exhibition games against the University of Kansas.

Afterwards, they will head to Argentina to prepare for Pool A competition.

The Bahamas will face off against one of the top teams, Argentina, on August 16 followed by Panama on August 17.

SPRINTER Terrence Jones Jr expressed his thankfulness and gratitude to his teammates and fellow Bahamians that supported him throughout his recent adversity.

The sprint specialist recently had his three-month suspension, issued by the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA), rescinded. The punishment was initially handed down to due misconduct in violation of the BAAAs regulations at the North American, Central American and Caribbean Association (NACAC) under-18 and under-23 Championships in San Jose, Costa Rica, last month.

However, the situation has since been resolved, according to Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg.

“I spoke to the president this morning and I think they had a meeting with his executives and came to the conclusion that they would find other means and ways to levy any punishment to the athletes for any breach that was made,” Mr Bowleg said.

He added that all suspensions have been lifted and all athletes are free to partake in any upcoming sporting events. Previously, the threemonth suspension would have restricted Jones from competing at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, August 19-27.

Meanwhile, Bahamians rallied in support of the 100 metre national champion and one of the world’s fastest men going into the World Championships with a blistering personal best of 9.91 seconds.

Following the verdict to overturn the three-month

‘WE BEGIN OUR JOURNEY INTO THE REALM OF SPORTS NUTRITION’

RECENTLY, I have been deeply fascinated by the profound impact of sports nutrition on athlete achievement and overall well-being.

Even more profound is how much our athletes, coaches and parents take their athletes’ nutrition for granted.

In this article, we begin our journey into the realm of sports nutrition, highlighting its significance in optimising athletic performance and recovery, while also recognising the vital role parents play in nurturing their young athletes’ nutrition at home.

Fuelling Success:

Unveiling the Power of Sports Nutrition

I have witnessed firsthand the incredible influence that proper nutrition holds in sustaining peak performance for athletes of all levels. Sports nutrition is

not merely about counting calories; rather, it involves a

‘With this team being one of the best assembled, we expect to advance’ in the

New NPBA President: ‘Join us in this this new era of basketball’

FOLLOWING the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) annual general meeting and elections, the newlyelected president Ricardo Smith is ready to usher in a new era of basketball.

Smith, along with the other elected officials, are ready to take on the challenge for the next four years and bring changes to the local night league.

The president and newly appointed officials plan to offer a cash prize to players, provide them with opportunities for travel and exposure, and boost crowd and media involvement going into next season.

Smith listed a $10,000 cash prize for the division one champions as the first item on his 10-point plan for the first year of his presidency.

“We have refocused our efforts on making sure that there is definitely an opportunity for players to see more benefits so that they will be able to see what they are playing for,” Smith said.

The champions of the 2023-2024 NPBA season will be awarded with the prize money along with championship rings for their efforts on the court.

Among the other goals for the association will be to allow the teams, particularly the division two clubs, to travel overseas to

colleges. Additionally, the division one players will have exposure to professional players.

The NPBA elected officials also have plans to boost crowd involvement and attendance, starting with their search of new potential venues for the basketball games next season. Despite a slight dip in crowd attendance in the previous season, Smith recognises that new initiatives can be put in place to boost attendance at the gymnasium. At the halfway mark of the regular season, the executives will have a committee in charge of planning the All-Star

games which will include players being allowed to stay in a hotel during the break.

“We are gonna bring back All-Star games and we hope to treat our players like All-Stars for at least a weekend in a hotel to have the opportunity to be treated like real superstars and to include all the fanfare and festivities that the NBA does,” the president said.

In addition to bringing back the All-Star games, they plan to include halftime shows, special prizes and merchandise for supporters.

“We have to provide incentives for our fans that

if they get early tickets they would be able to pay a cheaper price and also we must work on ensuring our teams are up to par and coming on the floor with a plan to execute the game at the highest level,” Smith added.

The new NPBA president also has plans for the media’s involvement in the upcoming season.

It is the association’s goal to sit with members of the media and sports representatives to discuss new ways to have them more involved with the progression and promotion of the NPBA league.

He said they are trying to work with the media

‘UNCLE LOU’

ADDERLEY SET TO BE INDUCTED OCTOBER 14

THE late Deacon Leviticus ‘Uncle Lou’ Adderley will be among 10 individuals and one team to be inducted into Saint John’s University’s J-Club Hall of Honour on Saturday, October 14, as part of Homecoming festivities.

The dinner and enshrinement ceremony begins with a social at 4:30pm followed by the dinner and programme at 5:15pm in Guild Hall (Old Gym) following the Johnnies’ Homecoming football game against Carleton in Clemens Stadium.

Registration is $75 per person before October 8 ($100 per person after) and includes dinner and beverages. All proceeds go to the J-Club to support SJU athletics.

houses going forward to get their message out through press releases, photography and post-game interviews which can be directly sent to them.

“We want to sit down with the media before next season opens to find out what we can do to make it easier for them.

“There are a number of things that we are going to be doing to get a new marketing/advertising strategy,” he said.

The president remains optimistic going into the 2023/2024 NPBA season and wants their supporters to give them a second chance in this new era of basketball.

Each member of the Hall of Honour class will be highlighted in the weeks leading up to their induction with stories and videos on gojohnnies.com starting on September 6. This year’s class was selected by a vote of the J-Club’s board of directors, who considered nominations which can be made by any club member.

Founded in 1959, the J-Club is a dues-based booster organisation of former Johnnie studentathletes, parents and fans, and plays a key role in supporting SJU varsity programs, intramurals and club sports.

Adderley, a graduate of the class of 1955, was considered a rare MIAC individual champion in two sports at SJU. Adderley was a threetime conference champion in tennis and won the MIAC wrestling title at 130 pounds as a junior in 1954. He was on track to repeat his championship as a senior in 1955, but he suffered a back injury in his semifinal win and had to medical forfeit the championship match.

After graduating in 1955, he returned to The Bahamas where he served as a coach and as the director of athletics at Saint Augustine’s College, a secondary school for grades 7-12. He will be enshrined in the class that includes Paul Bernabei ‘69 (baseball); Darwin Dumonceaux ‘99:(track and field); Chris Erichsen ‘08 (cross country/ indoor/outdoor track-and field); Terry Haws (wrestling) and Tom Kubinski ‘86:(swimming); Matt McGovern ‘01:(golf); Chris Palmer ‘96 (football/ baseball); Joining them will be the 2003 football team and Fr. Dunstan Tucker ‘25, OSB who will be awarded the J-Club Distinguished Service Award.

LaFleur pleased with performances Bahamas

WHEN IFBB women’s physique competitor Lorraine LaFleur decided to open GAINZ for Life Fitness - G4LF, she envisioned it would become one of Nassau’s new fastest-growing fitness studios.

LaFleur said she founded G4LF to introduce a fun, uplifting environment centred around physical fitness where members can push their limits, create meaningful relationships and have a good time.

Aiming to become the most extensive health and wellness community in The Bahamas, Gainz for Life Fitness left its imprint on one of the most well-known fitness competitions in the country at the Bahamas Bodybuilding Wellness and Fitness Federation Nationals.

The BBWFF Nationals was staged hon Saturday, July 22, when GALF added three more competitors to the six that contested the evert a year before.

This year, competitors participated in the men’s physique, men’s bodybuilding, men’s classic

bodybuilding, men’s fit model, women’s physique and women’s bikini categories. During the competition, LaFleur led by example to win the women’s physique pro category. Meanwhile, Jason Johnson was the overall men’s physique winner as they competed in the pro

segment held for the time in the nationals.

Kareem Brancaccio also emerged as the overall fit model winner; Charon McKenzie was second in the novice men’s physique; Ricardo won the novice men’s physique; Aaron Mackey was also second in the open men’s physique; Andrew Gibson was

third in the men’s classic physique; Kory Ingraham placed fifth in the men’s physique.

According to LaFleur, because of the success the club achieved, they anticipate that they will have more participation in 2023.

Former IFBB junior bikini competitor Allyssa Fox, the daughter of

team named for the CAC Games

FROM PAGE 12

hard to ready themselves for competition.”

Stubbs said he’s not hoping that it will be a repeat of last year when the team had to stay home. He noted that the athletes have undergone months and months of rigorous training and strict diets to get their bodies in shape for the stage.

“I am praying that the opportunity is presented for them to showcase and represent The Bahamas on the international stage,” he stated.

LaFleur, is now the active CEO of Gainz for Life Fitness.

The young CEO started weight training at 15, competed for the first time at 16 and represented the country at 17 as a member of the BBWFF Nationals Team in 2017 in the Dominican Republic CAC Championships.

Fox now uses the G4LF Brand to motivate others in the community to focus on pursuing a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. In the future, you can look forward to seeing more local involvement from Gainz for Life Fitness and can visit us on East St South and

JASRADO CHISHOLM JR MATCHES CAREER-HIGH HITTING STREAK AT 11

MIAMI (AP) — Michael Lorenzen threw a season-high eight innings of two-run ball in his Phillies debut as Philadelphia beat the Miami Marlins 4-2 yesterday.

Acquired from the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday, Lorenzen (6-7) scattered six hits and struck out five.

“It’s fun, the guys are great,” Lorenzen said of the defending National League champions. “It’s a good group. Everyone’s really close. I see why they did what they did last year. It’d be fun to make another run.”

Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr’s RBI double in the fourth cut the deficit for Miami.

Chisholm Jr matched his career-high hitting streak at 11 with the shot to the gap in left-centre that scored Josh Bell from first.

J.T. Realmuto homered and singled after a bruised right hand forced the Phillies’ star catcher to miss the last two games. Bryce Harper had two hits for Philadelphia, which won three in the four-game series against its NL East and wild-card rivals.

The victory also relieved the sting of a 9-8 loss in 12 innings on Wednesday night, when Philadelphia squandered a 5-0 lead and two advantages in extra innings. Five relievers were used, adding to the impact of Lorenzen’s outing.

“He was a blessing for us, really,” Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. “He came as advertised. Filled the strike zone.”

Miami’s Luis Arraez singled in his four at-bats and

But Lorenzen shuts down Miami in 4-2 win

and Lorenzen a couple of runs early,” Realmuto said. “Definitely felt very good.”

Realmuto showed the noticeable bruise on his hand he got while sliding into second base that sidelined him Tuesday and Wednesday.

“I couldn’t keep my top hand on the bat,” Realmuto said. “I just tried to swing a few times the first day and I couldn’t finish my swing at all. Gotta be honest, the first time I took a swing with two hands in the last two days was in the game.”

The Phillies padded their lead with Brandon Marsh’s two-run single against reliever A.J. Puk in the seventh.

Bryan De La Cruz’s solo homer in the seventh got the Marlins to within 4-2.

“Lorenzen kept us off balance all day,” Miami manager Skip Schumaker said.

his major league-leading batting average dropped to .377.

Seranthony Dominguez relieved Lorenzen and pitched the ninth for his second save.

Philadelphia struck early on Realmuto’s tworun blast in the second.

Realmuto drove the first pitch from Marlins starter Johnny Cueto (0-3) into the Phillies’ bullpen for his 13th homer of the season.

“To be able to give the team a lead there after a tough loss (Wednesday) gave us some momentum

Despite the late shot from De La Cruz, Thomson entrusted Lorenzen with another inning. “I was pretty stoked,” Lorenzen said. “(Thomson) asked me how I was feeling after the seventh, meaning if I felt good he was going to let me get another one. I was happy about it.”

Cueto was lifted after six-plus innings. The righthander gave up four runs and five hits, walked two and struck out four. It was his third start since missing three months because of right biceps tightness.

MAX SCHERZER STRIKES OUT 9 OVER 6 INNINGS IN HIS RANGERS DEBUT

ARLINGTON, Texas

(AP) — Three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer settled down after a shaky start to win his debut for the AL Westleading Texas Rangers, striking out nine over six innings and getting help from his new teammates as they beat the Chicago White Sox 5-3 yesterday.

Four of Chicago’s first five batters reached base in a three-run first inning when Scherzer (10-4) threw 37 pitches. The White Sox then had three singles in the second, though Scherzer benefitted from a double-play grounder and an inning-ending strikeout to prevent any more runs.

Scherzer, acquired from the New York Mets in a trade over the weekend and signed through next season, allowed seven singles and walked two. The right-hander retired 13 of the last 14 batters he faced, with seven of his strikeouts coming in that span. A week after his 39th birthday, he threw 70 of 105 pitches for strikes, with 21 of those swing-and-miss strikes.

Mitch Garver led off the Rangers’ fourth against

Touki Toussaint (1-4) with a homer that tied it at 3.

Three batters later, Marcus Semien homered for the second game in a row to put Texas ahead to stay.

Will Smith worked the ninth for his 19th save in 21 chances.

ROYALS 9, METS 2

KANSAS CITY, Mo.

(AP) — Brady Singer tossed eight innings of three-hit ball, Bobby Witt Jr. and Drew Waters hit homers, and the suddenly hot Kansas City Royals blew out the free-falling New York Mets to wrap up their second straight series sweep. The last-place Royals had won just four of their first 33 series this season, but squeaked out three wins over Minnesota before taking three from the Mets, a club they had never swept in franchise history.

Singer (7-8) allowed singles in the second, fourth and fifth and didn’t walk a batter while cruising through the New York lineup.

He did not allow a run while striking out four and throwing exactly 100 pitches. Carlos Carrasco

(3-6) allowed all six runs on eight hits and a walk over six innings. Francisco Lindor provided the Mets’ only offense with a two-out, two-run homer in the ninth.

GIANTS 1, DIAMONDBACKS 0 SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- LaMonte Wade Jr.

homered and six San Francisco pitchers combined for the shutout in a win over Arizona.

Tristan Beck (3-0) allowed two hits and struck out three in four innings, following opener Scott Alexander. Sean Manaea, Luke Jackson, Taylor

Rogers and Camilo Doval handled the final four innings as San Francisco finished its longest homestand of the season 7-2.

Brandon Pfaadt retired the first nine batters he faced before Wade led off the fourth inning with his 11th homer of the season.

Pfaadt (0-5) allowed just two hits while striking out seven and walking one in seven innings as the D-backs lost for the 11th time in 14 games. Arizona was 0 for 5 with runners in scoring position, leaving seven runners on base.

ORIOLES 6, BLUE JAYS 1 TORONTO (AP) -Jack Flaherty pitched six innings to win his Baltimore debut, Ryan Mountcastle and Austin Hays each had four hits and the American League-leading Orioles improved to 8-2 against Toronto this season. Mountcastle went 4 for 4 and scored twice, and Hays was 4 for 5 with two RBIs as Baltimore took three of four in the series and extended its lead in the AL East to two games over idle Tampa Bay.

Acquired from St. Louis on Tuesday, Flaherty (8-6) allowed one run and four hits.

He walked two and struck out eight.

Kevin Gausman (8-6) allowed three runs and eight hits in 4 1/3 innings. He struck out six and walked two.

‘WE BEGIN OUR JOURNEY INTO THE REALM OF SPORTS NUTRITION’

FROM PAGE 12

strategic approach to meeting individualised dietary needs based on an athlete’s sport, training intensity, body composition and performance goals. Believe it or not, it all starts in the home.

While youth athletes may receive expert guidance from coaches, sports medicine professionals and nutritionists, the influence of parents at home is equally essential.

Parents serve as the primary support system for their young athletes, ensuring they receive the right nutrition and maintain the right habits to fuel their endeavours. A meticulously scheduled nutrition dense, balanced diet that incorporates the right mix of carbohydrates, proteins,

fats and micronutrients is key to nurturing the athletic potential of growing athletes.

Again, I cannot stress enough the crucial role parents play in fostering a healthy relationship with food and nutrition.

Encouraging young athletes to embrace nutritious food choices and avoid fad diets, junk food or excessive restrictions lays the foundation for a sustainable and successful athletic journey. Very often, our Bahamian youth athletes don’t eat enough for fear of getting “fat”. I always tell them – you must eat like a racehorse, not a bikini model. Taste is 90% psychological – if you feed your child broccoli, they will learn to like broccoli. If you let them eat soda and cheese puffs, they

will learn to like soda and cheese puffs.

Striking the Right Balance:

The Importance of Macronutrients Macronutrients - proteins, fats, and carbohydrates - form the building blocks of sports nutrition, each playing a unique role in supporting an athlete’s performance and recovery.

1. Protein: Often hailed as the “muscle-builder,” protein is essential for repairing and rebuilding tissues after intense training sessions. Athletes rely on protein to support muscle growth and recovery, making it a vital component of their diet. Lean sources of protein such as chicken, fish, beans, and tofu are ideal for fuelling an athlete’s journey towards peak performance.

2. Fat: Contrary to popular belief, healthy fats are crucial for athletes’ overall well-being. Fats provide a concentrated source of energy, aid in nutrient absorption, and support hormone production. Athletes benefit from incorporating sources of healthy fats, like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, into their diets to sustain energy levels and maintain cardiovascular health.

3. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates serve as the primary source of energy for athletes. They are especially vital for endurance activities, replenishing glycogen stores and sustaining performance during training and competition. Athletes should choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes to

maintain a steady energy supply.

Empowering

Athletes with Nutrition

Knowledge

As a dedicated sports medicine practitioner and sports nutrition specialist, I am passionate about empowering athletes and their parents with nutrition knowledge.

At Empire Sports Medicine, we strive to equip parents and athletes with comprehensive sports nutrition education, enabling them to work together in making informed dietary choices that complement young athletes’ training and performance goals.

In the coming weeks we will explore more about what to eat pre and post–workout, pre and post competition, in–season and

off–season. Our mission is to navigate this intricate world of nutrition, guiding athletes and their parents towards optimal health, success, and longevity in their athletic pursuits. So, cut down on the chicken-in-da-bag.

Bahamian sports medicine physician, sports performance coach, sports nutrition specialist and founder of Empire Sports Medicine. Our mission is to empower athletes to reach new heights while safeguarding their health and well-being. We understand the unique demands of sports activities and we are dedicated to helping athletes prevent injuries, overcome challenges, optimise nutrition and performance.

Frank Rutherford proud of his Olympic bronze-medal feat

IT was 31 years ago that Frank Rutherford soared to the Bahamas’ first track and field medal at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain. He felt the bronze has propelled the Bahamas to earning a medal in every Olympiad thereafter.

The historic feat came on August 3 at the Olympic Stadium where Rutherford soared 56-feet, 11 1/2-inches or 17.36 metres to trail the American duo of gold medallist Mike Conley, who did 59-7 1/2 (18.17m) and Charles Simpkins with 57-9 (17.60m).

“It is something that I will cherish for the rest of my life,” said Rutherford, who reflected on his feat with his usual trip to Harbour Island. “It was an awesome day for the Bahamas.”

Although it has rarely been brought up in national conversations, Rutherford said he was pleased to have set the stage for what was to come for so many athletes who followed and competed in every Olympiad.

“This is something that I honestly live for,” Rutherford said. “I can’t explain in words what the emotions that I went through. I am just pleased that I was able to set the stage for the country.”

Rutherford, now residing in Houston, Texas with his family where he’s currently working as an assistant at his alma mater at the University of Houston, said he carried the country on his shoulders

TERRENCE JONES

FROM PAGE 12

suspension by the BAAA delegates, Jones relayed his words of thanks to everybody involved in a letter.

“I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the BAAA Executive Board, my Bahamian teammates as well

GREG CHRISTIE MEMORIAL SOFTBALL TOURNEY AUGUST 10

THE Greg Christie Memorial Softball Tournament is in its third year and organisers are excited to know that the tournament continues to grow and expose our future softball talent.

Competition commence on Thursday, August 10th. at 5:30 at Emera Park, Queens Highway and ends with the championship on August 13th. at 1 pm.

“Before I won the medal, I was promised a gift of land and a house by the then Government of the Bahamas. After I won it, there was a change in government, but it was never honoured. Today, we’re hearing of athletes getting land, houses and even having streets named after them, but I’ve got nothing to show for my achievement. It’s sad, but I am still happy to have been the pioneer to set the stage for so many others to follow.”

at the games and he delivered the first Olympic medal.

“It was so special because there were only a few people in the stands, including Dr Patrick Roberts, BAAA president Mike Sands and Brent Stubbs, the reporter, who covered the event,” Rutherford said.

“I remember in the press conference with the three medallists present, you asked me what it meant to have won the first medal for the Bahamas. I could only remember the look on your face

as you shed some tears because of the momentous accomplishment.”

The 58-year-old Rutherford, who was 27 years at the time, said he knew he had a legitimate shot at winning the title. That was why he was so confident going into the competition. He went on to win the silver medal at the World Cup in Cuba a month later.

Rutherford, who was also the first Bahamian to win both the NCAA Indoor and Outdoor Championships in the triple jump in the same

as the club and high school coaches that showed their support,” he wrote.

“This has been a humbling experience but one that made me realise how passionate our country is and how great a people we are,” he continued.

The Grand Bahamian wrote that he will take his lessons from the situation and through hard work and passion, make The Bahamas proud. Although the debacle

year in 1987, said he is still disappointed that he has not received the accolades that he deserves for his accomplishments.

“Before I won the medal, I was promised a gift of land and a house by the then Government of the Bahamas,” he recalled. “After I won it, there was a change in government, but it was never honoured.

“Today, we’re hearing of athletes getting land, houses and even having streets named after them, but I’ve got nothing to show for my achievement. It’s sad, but I am still

appeared to be headed south for their son, Terrence Jones Sr and Tara Martin-Jones also issued a letter of thanks to the public.

“Due to the support that Terrence Jones Jr and his family have received from each of you, expressed in your very own way, we are indeed grateful. Therefore, we take this opportunity to convey our infinite thanks and gratitude to you,” the Jones wrote.

happy to have been the pioneer to set the stage for so many others to follow.”

Rutherford said he will forever be grateful for the opportunity he got to represent the country and to win the medal. He said it’s a part of Bahamian history that came less than a decade after the country gained Independence.

So as the country celebrates its 50th Golden Jubilee, Rutherford said he’s just appreciative of the fact that he was able to ink his name in the almanacs of Bahamian sports that will last forever.

Despite a change of heart, the BAAA executives maintain that the matter has been handled internally and there will be possible sanctions to follow in regards to the athletes involved. The focus has now shifted to the World Championships which are just three weeks away. Jones has qualified to compete in both the 100m and 200m events.

Christie was Consultant for Rising Stars and a true Pioneer in the sport of softball locally and internationally. This year we will host seven teams, three in the 12U division, namely, Girls like Diamonds who are the defending 2022 champions, the Abaco Pink Panthers and our very own, Rising Stars.

In the 16U division, coordinator Yvonne Lockhart said they will see for the first time the Crucian Elite, from St. Croix, US Virgin Island, Sunshine Auto out of New Providence, Abaco Pink Panthers and Rising Stars.

“Our objective is to continue attracting more international teams that will expose our athletes to a much higher level of competition not often seen at home,” Lockhart said.

“It is our hope and dreams that our athletes will continue to grow and develop their softball skills some of whom desire to play college softball and in the years to come be in a position to assist in putting the Bahamas back on the WBSC softball chart. We anticipate an exciting competition and encourage the general public to come out and support these athletes.”

MOROCCO ADVANCES, GERMANY EXITS IN WILD FINALE TO THE GROUP STAGE AT THE WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

SYDNEY (AP) — In a wild finale to the group stage of the Women’s World Cup, two-time champion Germany was eliminated yesterday and the second lowest-ranked team in the tournament, Morocco, advanced to the knockout stage.

Colombia also advanced as Group H winner to round off a slew of upsets in the opening weeks of the competition being held in Australia and New Zealand.

A day earlier, Jamaica eliminated another favourite, Brazil, to advance to the round of 16, while South Africa is also through to the next stage after its stoppage-time winner against Italy.

But Germany’s early exit after a 1-1 draw with South Korea stands out as the biggest shock in a tournament full of surprises.

“I can’t explain what happened today. ... The disappointment is huge, I can’t put it into words,” Germany midfielder Lena Oberdorf said.

Ranked No. 2 by FIFA, the runner-up at last year’s European Championship was one of the favourites to win the World Cup.

And after opening the tournament with a 6-0 rout of Morocco, the Germans looked certain to cruise through a group that included Colombia and South Korea.

But a 2-1 loss against Colombia, followed by the draw against South Korea, saw it fail to advance from the group stage at a Women’s World Cup for the first time.

Cho So-hyun fired South Korea ahead in the sixth minute and despite Alexandra Popp’s equaliser in the 42nd, Germany couldn’t find a winner.

Morocco advanced as runner-up in Group H after back-to-back 1-0 wins against South Korea and Colombia.

Germany’s failure has echoes of the men’s team, which has been eliminated in the group stage at each of the last two editions of the men’s World Cup.

Some German players draped coats over their heads in a bid to hide their faces as they left the field in Brisbane yesterday.

Popp, Germany’s captain, had tears in her eyes.

She exits the tournament despite being the joint leading scorer on four goals with Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa, Other players looked into the distance in disbelief.

Those scenes were in sharp contrast to the joy witnessed in Perth after Morocco, ranked 72nd, secured a place in the round of 16 on its debut at the World Cup.

Only Zambia, No. 77, came into the tournament with a lower ranking than Morocco, which had already made history by becoming the first Arab

team to register a win at the Women’s World Cup by beating South Korea in its second game. The Moroccans quickly followed that up with another victory against Colombia to advance.

Anissa Lahmari’s penalty in first-half stoppage time was the only goal of the game. Morocco also made history at the men’s World

Cup in Qatar last year by becoming the first African team to advance to the semifinals.

The women’s team will face France in the round of 16, while Colombia takes on a Jamaica team that has also upset the odds.

After holding France to a 0-0 draw in its opening game, Jamaica also shut out Brazil on Wednesday

to leave the Copa America champion stunned.

“This shows, you can see with your very own eyes, that the women’s game is kicking things up a notch,” France coach Herve Renard said in response to that result.

The established nations, it seems, will have to get used to a levelling of the playing field in women’s soccer.

Two-time defending champion United States came within the width of the post from going out in the group stage against Portugal. Olympic champion Canada was eliminated after finishing third in Group B.

The latest edition of the Women’s World Cup is its biggest yet after the tournament was expanded to 32 teams, up from 24. There were fears that would dilute the quality and lead to more one-sided games.

But while there have been routs in the group stages, it has been notable how many underdogs have upset or pushed the favoured nations.

There is also no longer the escape route of thirdplaced teams advancing to the knockout stage, with only the top two in each group qualifying.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Monday, August 7th, 2023

Happy Emancipation Day

primary school children were to remain unchanged.

“As of Monday, August 14, 2023, the bus fees/fares will be going up by $0.25,” the union, which represents jitney drivers, said. “Adults $1.25 will now be $1.50, students in senior high and junior high school will move from $1 to $1.25 in uniform during school hours but $1.50 during school breaks and weekends. Primary and senior citizens remain at $0.50 and $0.75. All other rates are to be adjusted by $0.25. This agreement has been agreed to by the union and the Ministry of Transportation.”

Rudolph Taylor, the union president, told Tribune Business it was advised in a meeting with Jobeth ColebyDavis, minister of transport and housing, that the fare increase was approved by the Cabinet in March. He added that a meeting to advise the public of the changes was slated for the following month. “On March 27, 2023, that was approved by Cabinet. This was stated in the union meeting with the minister. A Town Hall meeting was to be held by the minister and other parties in April 2023 advising the public,” Mr Taylor said.

Mrs Coleby-Davis last month said the Cabinet has been “speaking” about jitney fare increases, and that the Government plans to hold Town Mall meetings to advise the Bahamian public on the new rates.

“We’ve been speaking to Cabinet about that and we’re going to have some Town Hall meetings with the public to discuss and consider the potential of having some bus fare increases, but also some transformation in the industry, and we are still seeking some form of unification so that we can get a better busing system in the country,” she explained. “And for the next half of this year, we will be focusing a lot on how we do some transformation with that industry.”

The Ministry of Transport and Housing, in its statement last night, said senior citizens will not be impacted by any fare increases. It confirmed

that public meetings and consultations will be held soon in a bid to create “a more modern and reliable bus system on New Providence”, which will include a further review of fares, passenger safety and service standards.

Pledging that the bus system will remain affordable for all, the ministry added: “As a demonstration of the ministry’s sensitivity to the plight of franchise owners and bus drivers, relief was provided through licensing fee waivers in October 2022 and May 2023.”

Harrison Moxey, the United Public Transportation Company’s (UPTC) president, yesterday said the announcement by the bus drivers’ union was “premature” as the unions are still under negotiations with the government and have a meeting scheduled for next week.

His union has been advocating for a bus fare increase of 75 cents, from $1.25 to $2, and branded an increase of 25 cents as “unacceptable”. He added that nothing as been finalised or gazetted, and that he will withhold any further comments until after the meeting next week.

Mr Moxey said: “I’ve seen that document they’ve been circulating. We’re meeting with the Government still. So they’re a bit confused on what they’re putting out. So I won’t have any comment at this time on that. Because they seem a bit perturbed with what the union put out as well. The negotiations haven’t been officially finalised so I don’t know if that’s the final word as yet.”

“I won’t comment further until next week when we’re set to have a meeting with them [the Government].

To my knowledge we’re still under negotiations. It’s not enforced and nothing is gazetted, so there’s no timeframe for no increase, and for an increase to happen it has to be gazetted before it becomes law.”

“I think is a bit premature. So we’re still waiting, waiting to see, but we don’t see that 25 centa as acceptable. We await but make no further comments until after our meeting. Next week, we anticipate.”

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that JIMMY ALCIME of East Street South, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 28th day of July, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that LUCIA DORGIL of #28 John Chipman Street, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 28th day of July, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

Legal Notice

MIP FUND IC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN as follows:

(a) MIP FUND IC is in dissolution under the provisions of the Investment Condominium Act, 2014

(b) The dissolution of the said Investment Condominium commenced on the 27th day of July, 2023 when its Notice of Dissolution were submitted to and registered by the Registrar General.

(c) The Liquidator of the said Investment Condominium is Shareece Scott, Deltec Bank & Trust Limited, Deltec House, Lyford Cay, P.O. Box N-3229, Nassau, Bahamas. Shareece Scott Liquidator

VACATION RENTALS ‘TOO HARD’ IS REPUTATION TO BE AVOIDED

Mr O’Brien, confirming that he, too, believed this was never executed, added that the latest changes appear to shift the burden for levying, collecting and paying VAT on vacation rental income from the online marketplaces to the property owners themselves.

The Department of Inland Revenue officials last week said they have compiled a database of close to 10,000 Bahamas-based vacation rental properties from information available via the likes of Airbnb.

Detailing his particular compliance struggles on behalf of clients, Mr O’Brien said he was still trying to obtain a Business Licence for one foreign vacation rental owner despite starting the process some 18 months

ago. “As part of the Business Licence, you have to get a letter from the National Insurance Board (NIB) that says you are either up-todate or not owing anything,” he recalled.

“We applied to NIB for that, and included a copy of our permit from the Bahamas Investment Authority which said the purpose of the permit was a rental. They said: ‘We don’t care, we want to see a letter from the BIA stating that the company has permission to rent from a business standpoint. It was a case of choosing the path of least resistance, and we sent it back to the BIA and they issued it.

“But we still, a year-anda-half later, are trying to get a Business Licence for someone.” Mr O’Brien said the NIB approval and confirmation was required

even though his client did not directly employ anyone in The Bahamas, and was therefore not responsible for making contributions, since they planned to use thirdparty contractors.

Shunda Strachan, the Department of Inland Revenue’s acting controller, last week pledged that the tax collection agency is “working on simplifying the processes” after Mr O’Brien warned the same BHTA meeting against creating “cumbersome” procedures for vacation rental owners.

The Glinton, Sweeting & O’Brien partner yesterday told Tribune Business: “The bottom line is we need to keep the process simple or people are going to be encouraged to avoid it. It’s expensive, or will add additional expense from someone out of the country,

and they will have to hire a law firm or accounting firm to do that. Someone in The Bahamas is going to have to perform that function. If it’s something that can be done online or streamlined, then compliance will go up.”

Referring to the seeming switch from vacation rental marketplaces to owners when it comes to tax compliance, Mr O’Brien added: “The other major item is that we just want to make sure the Department of Inland Revenue doesn’t try to collect VAT from owners who were using Airbnb or some form of marketplace prior to July 1 because the legislation called for those entities to be collecting VAT.

“Just to keep it simple, I hope the Department of Inland Revenue takes the position that we’re not going to try and claw back,

and hold owners responsible, who were relying on the prior legislation.” The Government may well still rely on the likes of Airbnb to collect VAT on clients’ rental incomes, and pass these taxes on to the Government, with homeowners now responsible for registration and Business Licence fee payments.

Regardless, the burden on vacation rental owners will increase - it is just to what extent. “It is a lot more administration, and we’ll see how the market accepts that,” Mr O’Brien added. “It might be just too high a barrier for some to bother renting, which will have a waterfall effect on everything else and real estate sales.

“I think everyone will accept that if you’re making money from a service, the

GOV’T URGED: SEE POACHING AS ‘MAJOR ECONOMIC CRIME’

and locals exceeding the catch limits and fishing before lobster season. They go out before the season so that they do not get left behind,” he blasted.

“It’s a combination of multiple poaching sources.

It’s a combination of the non-Bahamian foreigners coming in from Florida and the like, then you have the second homeowners who live here and kind of think they’re above the law, and there are local Bahamians determined to make a living by diving other people’s traps. You have Bahamians that don’t follow the law. We have problems within our country as well. It’s coming at us from all angles.”

Mr Maillis urged the Government and its key agencies, especially the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Department of Marine Resources and Royal Bahamas Police Force, as well as Crown prosecutors, to treat poaching and other fisheries offences as “major economic crimes” given the impact they have on the livelihoods and income earned by fishermen and their families while also threatening the sustainability of a key export industry.

“The Government needs to understand fisheries

crimes are major economic impediments and major economic disruptors to local investment,” he told Tribune Business. “If a Bahamian fisherman believes 50 percent of his investment will be stolen from him, why make the investment? That’s business for the harbour stores, business for the importers, business for the metal workers. “We’re going to have a massive depreciation in our fishing industry long-term if we don’t do something to control blatant poaching. As a fisherman, you invest in your lobster traps. You invest in your boat. You hire a crew expecting that ‘x’ amount of traps will generate ‘x’ amount of lobster, and you catch one-third less than you expect to because of poaching. It’s going to impact the profitability and sustainability of your venture.”

Mr Maillis argued that “ignorance of the law is no defence and you should suffer the consequences” for violating Bahamian fisheries laws. He added that too many visiting fishermen from the US, as well as second homeowners, appeared to think they have an automatic right to catch as much lobster as they like without the need for

a permit or adhering to its terms.

“Nobody should come in here without knowing there’s a maximum of ten lobsters allowed per boat,” he said. “There’s no excuse for being caught with several hundred lobster. Those playboys from Florida come out there to have a ball. They think we’re a joke. They think we’re incompetent, think we don’t know our own law and think we can’t stop them.”

The NFA secretary said it was especially “egregious” when foreign poachers posted about their exploits on social media, which he added will encourage others to follow suit. “We’ve got a big problem if we don’t make some examples of these people,” he added. “It’s going to keep going for ever, and eventually something bad is going to happen.

“When you keep harming the work of our fishermen, one of these days these people are going to get hurt by fishermen who have been infuriated by the damage to their livelihoods. I’m not endorsing that, and that’s not the way to go about it, but if you are threatening people’s livelihoods sometimes they are going to be aggressive.

“When we catch somebody we have to make a

strong example of them. Confiscate their catch, take away their boats, put them on the ‘stop’ list. Tell them: ‘Do this again, and you will never come to The Bahamas again’. We have to send a strong message. We have to do what we have to do.”

Besides properly equipping and resourcing the relevant law enforcement agencies, Mr Maillis said The Bahamas needs to balance its status as a welcoming tourism destination with taking action against visitors who break the country’s laws and threaten its fisheries stocks.

“The poaching from Florida is a big deal, and I’m seeing a lot of anger in the fishermen,” he added. “This is a big deal year after year. We implore them to follow the law and be respectful of the laws, culture and customs of The Bahamas without being forced to do so.

“As Bahamians, we would never go to Florida and fish the same way they try to fish in The Bahamas. We wish that they show us the same respect as we show them.” The poaching threat comes as Bahamian fishermen are said to be facing a “serious predicament” with margins squeezed by low lobster prices and high fuel costs.

The starting $7 per pound price for lobster is creating a “major challenge” for fishermen. It is barely higher than the $6.60 per gallon diesel price in the Family Islands, meaning fishermen will spend between $264 to $330 on fuel per trip alone.

Darin Bethel, the North Andros Chamber of Commerce president, told

Government deserves its share and, where it’s generated, can tax rental income. Conceptually, it’s not a hard sell, but we need to make it as easy as possible for people to do so. We’ve got plenty of room for improvement. We’re certainly heading in the right direction, but I hope the Department of Inland Revenue takes a flexible approach as all these new obligations are created. “It’ll take a little bit of time, but once a jurisdiction gets a reputation that has a long-term effect. I think we just need to be cautious that we’re not going to allow the reputation that it’s too hard to do business in The Bahamas if you own vacation rental properties.”

Tribune Business: “The crawfish price at $7 is the lowest it’s been in over five years. Last season, the price opened at $12 per pound. Year before last it opened at $13-$14 per pound, and last year fishermen were disjointed with the $11-12 [per pound] opening prices; they wanted $15. And I have a lot of fishermen stunned as to how it is that the buyers can open the season and set the price so low.”

Bahamas promoted at major aviation summit

FROM PAGE A23

not occur through happenstance but through strategic planning, methodical positioning, networking and partnerships. It is at this event where we generate a lot of the general aviation business to The Bahamas - especially to our Out Islands.”

Mr Williams added: “We invite veteran and novice pilots to find out more

about just how easy it is to fly to The Bahamas. We also encourage all those interested to join any one of our upcoming fly-ins to Abaco and other Out Islands.”

The Bahamas is one of only three countries (along with the US and Canada) that is part of the International Federal Partnership (IFP) organisation, which has a joint agreement with the EAA.

BAMSI ACCELERATING EGG PRODUCTION EFFORT

FROM PAGE A21

week or two they will be laying eggs once they get acclimatised to the environment,” he added.

During the opening ceremony for the facility in April, BAMSI chairman, Senator Tyrel Young, said the Institute hoped to achieve a number of objectives through the Poultry Research and Training Centre and the Layers Programme. “We will be increasing the number of healthy eggs on the market, introducing Bahamian students to the science of poultry and poultry management, and we will be supporting the education and training of farmers and agri-prenuers who are interested in either creating or growing a successful poultry business,” he said.

Mr Taylor said that now the layers programme is up and running, and egg production is steady, the focus will turn to training and research. “In September we will begin feeding trials using probiotics and enzymes, and working with various forms of calcium alternatives in the diet - which is necessary for shell integrity - to see

the impact on the shells,” he added.

“If the eggshell is thicker, it will allow eggshells to be strong, reducing breakage during handling and transport, minimising any pathogens from penetrating the eggshell and allowing the composition of the nutrients to stay longer inside the egg. This can result in a longer storage time and support the scientific principles of Haugh Unit, which is a measure of the internal quality of an egg. This will be part of our outreach programme, as we share this information with poultry farmers.”

Another aspect of the research and outreach programme will involve using the chicken manure as fertilizer in crop production, including vegetables, and for banana and coconut tree production. The goal of the research component of BAMSI’s layers programme is to encourage increased entrepreneurial ventures in the agriculture sector, to help existing poultry farmers produce eggs sustainably, and to offer varied learning opportunities in agriculture and agro-entrepreneurship to student.

Legal Notice

WEMIX BAHAMAS LLC

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMPANIES ACT (No.45 of 2000)

In Voluntary Liquidation

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, (No.45 of 2000), that WEMIX BAHAMAS LLC (IBC no. 209326B) is in dissolution.

The date of commencement of the dissolution is 2nd day of August, 2023. The Liquidator of the Company is Crowe Bahamas and can be contacted at Harbour Bay Plaza, Shirley Street, Suite 587, P. O. Box AP-59223, Nassau, Bahamas Email andrew.davies@crowe.bs. All persons having claims against the above-named company are required to email their names, addresses and particulars of their debts or claims to the Liquidator by 1st day of September, 2023.

Crowe Bahamas Liquidator

BAMSI ACCELERATING EGG PRODUCTION EFFORT

THE Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) is accelerating efforts to build capacity at its Poultry Research and Training Centre after the latest batch of layer hens arrived in North Andros on Friday.

Some 600 Rhode Island Red Layer Hens made the seven-hour trip on the MV Prince and were promptly transferred to the enriched cage-system at BAMSI’s farm where they are expected to produce almost 500 eggs per day.

Justin Taylor, BAMSI’s poultry specialist, said: “These eggs are fresh. When you look at the carbon footprint, it takes five to six days to get to a table and, in some cases, it could go from the

chicken to the table in hours. That’s amazing.” He added that fresher eggs also have an impact when used in recipes. Cakes, pastries and other baked goods that use eggs will be enriched, while items such as mayonnaise will collate better when fresh eggs are used. With an increasingly health conscious population, Mr Taylor said restaurants and bakeries can advertise they are using locally-produced eggs in their recipes and customers will recognise the value in that.

“With these imported brands we don’t know how fresh these eggs are, but BAMSI can reassure the public that their eggs are fresh and are fortified with nutrients such as omega3, which comes from the

flaxseed in the feed. Customers can know what they are eating. Our chickens are never fed with antibiotics or hormones; they are given an all-natural feed so, for our retail clients, that’s a good marketing perception,” Mr Taylor said.

He added that the benefit of having egg production in The Bahamas is the flavour of the eggs “because the nutrients will be there inside the eggs, and will not have been depleted based on the age of the eggs that are produced locally. Eggs that are imported through the US take longer to reach the consumer, and this takes away from the taste because the essential minerals needed for egg composition and integrity have been depleted”.

The five-month old birds will take a few days to get acclimatised to their new environment following their journey to North Andros, but are expected to begin producing eggs within two weeks.

“There was a lot of rain on the journey to Andros, which will have affected them. And, like humans, animals can experience getting seasick, so we were careful not to give them any food or water while on the journey. Now that they are on land, it will take some days for them to feel comfortable in their surroundings,” Mr Taylor said.

In a matter of weeks, the full complement of birds should be in Andros, with the facility reaching its maximum capacity of 2,800. Once

‘DON’T SHARE CARBON CREDIT BENEFITS WITH OIL EXPLORER’

FROM PAGE A24

extracting any commercial oil discoveries. However, Ms Ingraham said she was “absolutely 100 percent against” the exploration outfit using carbon credits as an offset to obtain monetary reward for not proceeding with commercial drilling in Bahamian waters.

“One of the things they mentioned before was exchanging for carbon credits,” she said of Challenger. “The carbon credits should be for the people of The Bahamas and not for a private group to use as collateral for government business. When it comes to carbon credits, or anything that impacts the futures and lives of Bahamians, no private entity should use that as collateral to engage in any form of business with the Government.”

Challenger has provided no details on how the carbon credits proposal would be structured. However, given that these credits would likely be an offset to the non-extraction of any further commercial oil discoveries in Bahamian waters, it would appear likely that further exploratory wells will have to be dug to confirm if such deposits exist.

Carbon credits will only be created, and available for trading, if the existence of commercial oil deposits within The Bahamas can be verified. There would likely also have to be a revenue sharing agreement worked out with the Government if Challenger’s plan ever comes to fruition, and much work remains to yet be done.

Ms Ingraham, though, warned that further exploratory drilling by Challenger in Bahamian waters - in

pursuit of carbon credits or otherwise - would represent a potential threat to the ‘blue economy’ carbon sinks that this nation is already hoping to monetise via these financial instruments, namely its seagrass beds, mangroves and wetlands.

“The Government has already been provided with several options on how we can move into the carbon credit market,” she told this newspaper. “The potential for use of our already existing natural ecosystems provides so much more for us to enter these markets, and especially if there is the potential for oil exploration to damage and devastate these ecosystems.”

Challenger, though, has said it is sufficiently encouraged by the results of its Perseverance One well, drilled in waters 90 miles west of Andros, to believe oil may yet exist below the

Bahamian seabed. However, it has made clear that it will not proceed with further drilling activities unless it can find a joint venture or farm-in partner to share the bulk of the financial, technical and operational risk as it seeks to recover its extensive investment in this nation.

Ms Ingraham spoke as she and Casuarina McKinney, the Bahamas Reef Environmental Educational Foundation’s (BREEF) executive director, issued a public letter on behalf of the Our Islands, Our Future coalition calling on this nation to declare its “independence” from oil and fossil fuels. The first step in this process, they argued, is for the Government to ban oil drilling in Bahamian waters. “We implore the Government to take the next critical step by setting The Bahamas on a path to

Gov’t fails in strike-out bid on oil terminal land

FROM PAGE A24

on March 13, 1981, with the agency subsequently subleasing it to South Riding Point’s operator in 2013.

While there is no guarantee that Mr Russell will prevail, Justice HannaAdderley’s verdict raises several questions. Not least of these is whether the claim was detected, and scrutinised, during the recent commercial negotiations and due diligence that resulted in Liwathon Group, the logistics operator that runs four petroleum storage facilities in Estonia, acquiring South Riding Point from Equinor. The deal closed in February this year will all necessary government approvals.

Mr Russell’s claim has thus survived its first challenge, although it will now face many more when it

comes to the substantive hearing and trial for this is when the evidence will be fully tested. Justice HannaAdderley also apologised “profusely” for the fact it has taken two-and-a-half years to render her verdict after the hearing was held on February 11, 2021.

“He claims that all or part of that same tract was leased by the Crown to the defendant, who subsequently sub-leased it to Statoil South Riding Point by lease dated some time in 2013,” the judge wrote of Mr Russell’s case. “He is therefore claiming, among other things, that the defendant [BAIC] knowingly practiced deceit on Statoil in granting the lease and is interfering with his property rights.

“He claims an order for possession, damages and an injunction prohibiting

the defendant from continuing to do anything with or on the property.”

Kenria Smith, acting for the Attorney General’s Office, argued that the action was “an abuse of the process of the court” because Mr Russell had failed to produce evidence that a document was “forged” or identify anyone who had knowledge of the alleged “deceit”. She added that he knew the subject property was occupied as far back as 1981, when Burmah Oil, one of Statoil’s predecessors, placed oil storage tanks on the land. As a result, Ms Smith argued that Mr Russell had “slept on any rights he thinks that he may have had” because the Limitation Act required that he bring an action to recover the property by 1993, yet he had only initiated the case on April 29, 2019.

fully outfitted, the Research Centre is expected to produce an estimated 584,000 eggs annually.

Mr Taylor said that since its opening in April, egg production has been going well, but the recent heatwave has caused a temporary slowdown in production. “With the climate, the higher heat index…the heat reduces the feed intake by the birds, which results in production losses of five to seven per cent. This is not a normal heat. Typically, these birds can produce in heat up to 94 degrees, but the higher temperatures are causing a reduction in production,” he added.

Mr Taylor further explained that the bird house is designed to accommodate a climactic control fan

declaring independence from oil. The transition will take time, but climate change won’t wait. The last thing we should do is encourage additional investment in a failing fossil fuel economy. First and foremost, this transition should include a ban on oil drilling in our islands and waters,” the duo wrote.

“By leading the way in declaring independence from oil, The Bahamas can inspire other nations to embrace sustainable practices and spearhead the fight against climate change. We can set an example for the world, demonstrating our commitment to preserving our natural heritage and securing a brighter future for future generations.”

And they added: “Declaring independence from oil would be a watershed moment that showcases our government’s unwavering dedication to saving our beautiful islands for generations to come. It is an opportunity to demonstrate

estate, and was not claiming ownership by adverse possession.

system to provide chickens with adequate ventilation, but to mitigate extreme temperatures officials have introduced additional fans to draw the hot air out of the house.

The layers, which were purchased from a hatchery in Georgia, were just oneday old when they arrived in The Bahamas by plane. Mr Taylor said the birds were kept in New Providence until they were five months old and were big enough to be safely housed at the Andros facility. “We have an enriched cage system, and the birds can’t be put in the cage at a young age. They need to be a certain size so they won’t fit through the mesh. In a

global leadership and inspire climate action.

“By transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, we can significantly reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate the effects of climate change and improve our lives. The abundant sunshine, wind and ocean currents that grace our shores are a natural advantage for harnessing renewable energy. Embracing clean energy technologies would protect our environment, create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and enhance energy security....

“Let us declare independence from oil, implement a ban on drilling, and pave the way towards a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous nation. Together, we can make The Bahamas a beacon of hope and a global leader in renewable energy.”

As a result, the Attorney General’s Office argued that “the proceedings are hopeless and doomed to fail”. But attorney Edmund Russell, representing Mr Russell, argued that because the Crown grant was “first in time” to be recorded in the Registry of Records it gave his client superior title that “cannot be defeated by the alleged unrecorded Crown Land lease to BAIC”.

And the same Crown grant also “takes priority” over the unrecorded lease made between BAIC and Statoil on October 21, 2009. Mr Russell’s attorney also argued that BAIC was “never in exclusive possession and sole occupation” of the disputed real

Rejecting the Government’s strike-out bid, Justice Hanna-Adderley said of Mr Russell’s action: “The statement of claim is plainly pleaded. That the plaintiff claims to be the heir-at-law and true owner of the subject property since 1827; the facts as we know them at this stage do not disclose how the Bahamas Development Corporation, predecessor to BAIC, became vested with the title.

“The claim is that neither the Bahamas Development Corporation nor BAIC has no right title or interest to the property, and cannot lease it to anyone. The defendant cannot say that it is taken by surprise by the plaintiff’s claim.” With the case not having yet

reached the stage where the evidence is to be examined, Justice Hanna-Adderley found that it “does disclose a reasonable course of action and/or raises some question fit to be decided by this court”.

Dismissing the Government’s argument that the action is “frivolous and vexatious”, she also rejected the argument that it is barred by the Limitation Act. “There is no evidence to show how the Crown was able to lease the same land to BAIC if the Russell grant is valid,” Justice Hanna-Adderley added. “No doubt this will become clear with the disclosure of more evidence.”

CRAWFISH OVERSUPPLY TO HIT LOCAL FISHERMEN

A BAHAMIAN seafood processor yesterday confirmed that a global over-supply of lobster is driving relatively low prices for local fishermen at the opening of crawfish season.

Ben Frisch, a Tropic Seafood director, told Tribune Business there is a glut of high-value fisheries products that is depressing prices amid complaints from Bahamian fishermen that the price they are receiving has reduced from $12 per pound at the opening of the 2022 crawfish season to $7 now.

Describing the global market as currently “idle” and “weak”, he added that many wholesalers and processors have lowered their prices in line with the oversupply and relatively weak demand.

“The seafood complex in the whole world is going down in price right now. It is driven by the market; it’s not what anybody wants to pay,” Mr Frisch said. “At some point in time, you have to figure out what you can sell and, right now, the market is completely idle. Nothing is moving. The market is very weak worldwide.

“There’s inventories that we’ve never seen before still in stock all over the world. There is a lot of last year’s stock, and that’s the problem right there. And

I can tell you that all the other fisheries in the worldthe crab fishery, the salmon fishery, the shrimp fishery - just set a low price for the year that keeps going down. Trends are going down in price on every seafood commodity, but it’s all the high-price stuff. People don’t have enough money to buy this type of product any more.

“Back in the US, 80 percent of the people are living

pay cheque to pay cheque, so they can’t afford it. And so we don’t know where it’s going to go. We don’t know what the price is going to be.

I think it’s a better thing to really look at it two or three weeks from now because all of our European customers, nobody is saying anything They’re not even asking us for product. They still have product leftover from last year,” he added.

“So I think the best thing to do is see where everything goes in the market. The season is only three days in. So there has to be a starting point. The starting point is going to be pretty close. But it should move up a little bit.”

Bahamian fishermen said they were in a “serious predicament” because their margins have been significantly reduced by a combination of low lobster prices and high fuel costs. Mr Frisch said costs have increased worldwide for all, while demand has decreased, leading to every

point in the chain feeling the pinch. He added that he expects the final lobster trading price to increase from $7, but not by much.

“Every cost they have gone up because everybody has gone up. I don’t care what it is, whether you are a processor, whether you’re a fisherman, whether you’re a homeowner. Every price has gone up and it’s not just in The Bahamas but further away,” Mr Frisch said.

“We want the fishermen to do well, we need everybody to do well on the chain; that’s the important thing. But it is true. The markets are very unsettled. There is this huge amount of supply out there in Europe, in Canada. I mean, our Canadian buyers don’t even want any product right now, half of our people in Europe don’t want any product. It’s a very scary thing right now.”

“The fishermen, I can understand how they feel. I mean, I feel bad myself,” Mr Frisch continued. “We

still have a lot of products from last season and that product is way more expensive. And we’re going to lose ourselves. We’re all in the same boat. There’s nothing we can do about it, it’s the market. We want to help the fishermen and try to get better quality, help them to do a better job with what they do,” he added. “But we cannot tell somebody they have to pay us a certain price on offset because our electric bill is too high. They don’t care.

They are paying a ridiculous price for diesel fuel, which we are. I think at the end, they’ll get more than $7, but it ain’t going to be much more because that’s probably a legitimate price based on what it costs to get it from the boat to somebody’s table. There’s a lot of expenses and a lot of costs to go into.”

Local fishermen have indicated they are planning on stockpiling their catch to sell when the market recovers. Mr Frisch warned that,

if they go this route, they must ensure their freezers are “good”. He added that he has not seen the market with such a large oversupply in 50 years.

He said: “They have to be careful because if they don’t handle them properly and the quality goes down, they’re not even going to be worth talking about. So they have to have good freezers if they intend to do something like that. It’s their choice.

“The fishermen, at the end of the day, get their money immediately. When they deliver product they get paid. We may not get paid for that same lobster tail for three months. And we may not know what we’re going to get. Right now it is very, very…I’ve never seen it like this in 50 years. We’ve never had this situation where there’s such an oversupply. There’s just too much supply out there. That’s that’s what it boils down to.”

Abandoned property owners to fund next demolition wave

THE NEXT wave of downtown Nassau property demolitions will cost the Government nothing when they begin this weekend because the owners will

cover the bill themselves, a Senator said yesterday.

Senator Randy Rolle, the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation’s global relations consultant, who has responsibility for the downtown revitalisation efforts, confirmed at the Prime Minister’s Office’s weekly media briefing that the owners of the targeted

buildings have opted to pay for the demolition themselves.

“Demolition is scheduled to commence this weekend, providing there aren’t any electrical issues. We are working along with owners on the logistics. At the moment, we are positive about four, possibly five, buildings east of East Street that are being eyed for demolition,” he said. “The committee has met with the AMMC (Antiquities Monuments & Museums Corporation), and we are satisfied and agree the way forward on these moves.”

“We have drafted an action plan for the reimagination of downtown Nassau through several key initiatives that we intend to roll-out over time. We have zoned downtown into four focal areas to allow for a

focused approach on specific needs.”

The zones have been identified as zone one, Navy Lion Road to Frederick Street; zone two, Frederick Street to Parliament Street; zone three, Parliament Street to Elizabeth Avenue; and zone four, Elizabeth Avenue to the Paradise Island Bridge.

The Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation has also initiated a pressure washing initiative to address dirty properties as part the downtown Nassau clean-up effort. Pressure washing will be twice monthly on the 8th and 20th of every month.

“We know right now this may not be enough, but we have to start from somewhere,” Mr Rolle said. “The garbage bin on Junkanoo Beach has been repositioned and we have increased the collection times from weekly to daily, ensuring a cleaner environment.”

The Junkanoo Beach project is also proceeding as tourism, the Ministry

of Works (MOW) and the Junkanoo Beach Association are “progressing with architectural renderings” and awaiting engineering and water and sewerage assessments.

The Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation is collaborating with the Ministry of Works to address flooding in the downtown area by finishing the sidewalks and ensuring more resilient infrastructure. It is also planning to have more entertainment in the downtown area by creating an “historical park” at the rear of Rawson Square and also an art district on the eastern end of Bay Street.

“We will be working with the creative community

REALTORS SAY BIMINI’S HIGH END IS ‘RED HOT’

BIMINI-BASED realtors yesterday described the island’s high-end property market as “red hot” with fresh developments such as the Illa Bimini Resort and Residences emerging to meet ever-growing demand.

Guido Rolle, a realtor with Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty, told Tribune Business that Bimini has seen a “substantial increase” in high-end property purchases over the past five years. “Previously, Bimini didn’t have much of a real estate presence,” he said.

“It was just known as the big game fishing capital of the world where people would come and enjoy boating, fishing and the beaches and head back. If there was an investment property here or there that presented itself, then people would go after it.

Development of the Bimini Bay Resort, now Resorts World Bimini, helped spark international interest in the island’s second home market but

there has been a “shift” over the past five years with investors becoming increasingly interested in bay-front concepts and docking at canal front homes. “People just want to break away from the every day hustle and bustle of life,” said Mr Rolle. “The Bimini real estate market is red hot.”

Greg Miller, also with Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty, added: “Especially right now, during the summer time, with the summer time being our peak season, over the past two years now we have seen where there isn’t a decrease because usually after summer the market would go dead flat.”

Bimini’s real estate market traditionally endured slower sales during the October to February period. “But, over the last two years since I’ve been here, we’ve seen where it slows down but it’s not flat. We’re now getting a lot more business and that’s expected because we have those snowbirds and winter vacationers who come and then stay long-term,” said Mr Miller. “We’re getting mostly those business owners who are pretty wealthy out of

to create cohesive themed murals, enriching the downtown area with art and culture,” Mr Rolle said. A recently-announced valet parking imitative will be going into its second week, after which the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation will make a determination if they should keep the initiative. Mr Rolle added that the company providing the valet parking has partnered with the owners of various downtown parking lot spaces which they use for parking vehicles. However, there is no plan for the Government to incorporate its own paid-parking for the area.

New York, and they’re coming in and they’re prepared to spend $5m if they want to buy a house. I know people who don’t want to go to Nassau any more; there is too much hustle and bustle in Nassau.

“There’s too much traffic and too much going on. But Bimini gives you a balance of both. It’s not like any other Family Island where there are only a few places to go and everything else on the island is practically dead. Bimini is a lot smaller and you can get around relatively easily and pretty quickly,” Mr Miller continued.

“There’s not a lot of driving and open green spaces filled with nothing. There’s the casino, then the resort, and then you can come right outside and walk into a restaurant and, then further on, you can walk right on to a beach all within a seven mile radius.”

Mr Rolle added: “We prefer it to be steady over the next five to 10 years with other developments coming on stream like the Illa development in the north of Bimini on Rockwell island that’s going to be overwater bungalows and a boutique style hotel, and another restaurant coming along with a boutique-style golf course and marinas coming on stream. We see Bimini moving ahead in the next few months and years with a sustained economy by God’s grace.”

POSITIVE BENEFITS FROM TAKING CHILDREN TO WORK

In some corporate cultures, including your children in business activities is quickly becoming a common practice. In fact, western culture has named a day - typically in November - as ‘Take your child to work day’. The goal of this day is to give young people a better idea of what their parents do for a living.

This week, we explore the benefits of offering this special day to your employees, including:

* Oftentimes, children are ungrateful and entitled.

IAN

They have little clue about how hard their parents work to take care of them. This day allows children the opportunity to see up close what they their parents do to provide a living for the family. It also gives parents the opportunity to talk to their children about the importance of hard work and how it can make them better adults.

* Allowing a child to spend the day with their parents at work is a wonderful bonding opportunity. As children grow

into adulthood, parents are often looking for ways to connect with their children.

* Employees can form new friendships with their co-workers as they get to know each other’s children and learn more about their families. Families connecting is perhaps one of the great joys of this initiative.

* Hosting a ‘Take Your Child to Work Day’ can be an excellent way to create a positive work environment and boost morale. You build stronger work teams when you share your

BAHAMAS PROMOTED AT MAJOR AVIATION SUMMIT

THE BAHAMAS sought to further boost private aviation visitor numbers by promoting the destination to the 500,000-800,000 attendees at one of the world’s largest air shows.

The Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, in a statement, said its officials provided a strong presence at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture Oshkosh show where they met with private aviation partners and discussed new business opportunities. Attendees were also able to speak with

officers from key government agencies, including Customs, Immigration and the police.

Branded “the world’s greatest aviation celebration”, the week-long fly-in convention was held from July 24-30 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Each year it attracts between 500,000 to 800,000 attendees featuring pilots, international media, aviation manufacturers and vendors, and more than 10,000 aircraft.

Ahmad Williams, the Bahamas Tourism Office’s regional manager for

vertical markets, and veteran Bahamas flying ambassadors Mike Z and Rick Gardiner, staged seminars at the show on the ease of flying to this nation.

Tourism representatives were available to answer questions at the ministry’s booth, while also promoting the 2023 Grand Bahama Airshow.

Greg Rolle, the ministry’s senior director of sports tourism and vertical markets, said: “This is the most important trade and consumer show for the aviation sector because of its

audience size and the niche market clientele it attracts.

“We get to speak directly to our audience, many of whom are pilots committed to flying to The Bahamas. We get to answer their questions, address their concerns and convert their interests into solid bookings for the various offerings throughout our beautiful country.

“The Bahamas is the number one destination in the region for general aviation arrivals, and this did

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children in work activities. It also helps to have youth perspective in the work space as well.

* Children who get to see their parents at work may be inspired to take a new path for their future, discover a new interest and observe how their parents are good role models. This can serve as an internship before the official one.

Once the boundaries are established with team members and children, this programme can reap

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Shown

$5.70 $5.75 $5.80 $5.71

Vacation rentals ‘too hard’ is reputation to be avoided

THE BAHAMAS must avoid earning “the reputation that it is too hard to do vacation rental properties” with all the extra tax and regulatory obligations it is imposing on the industry, an attorney warned yesterday.

Andrew O’Brien, the Glinton, Sweeting & O’Brien partner, told Tribune Business that imposing extra bureaucracy and red tape which is both costly and time-consuming could set “too high a barrier” for some owners as he revealed that he has thus far spent 18 months trying to obtain a Business Licence for one foreign client.

Acknowledging that taxation of rental income has become increasingly accepted worldwide, he added that the absence of online and other “simple” mechanisms where owners can register and pay due taxes would only

encourage “avoidance” and non-compliance.

Mr O’Brien said he and other Bahamian professionals are “still digesting all of our legislation”, and reforms unveiled both during the Budget and before. Tax officials last week said foreign vacation rental property owners should be registered to pay VAT on their revenue earnings and possess a Business Licence “from day one” and “the first dollar”. VAT

registration is a requirement for overseas owners regardless of how much rental income they earn.

Speaking at a Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) Board of Directors meeting, the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) representatives said the requirements for Bahamian vacation rental owners are less onerous. They will only have to register for, and charge, VAT if

Gov’t urged: See poaching as ‘major economic crime’

their annual rental earnings meet or exceed the $100,000 threshold, while a Business Licence will only be required if the property in question is operated and held under a corporate entity.

Mr O’Brien said this implies a “switch” from the Government’s previous position where it intended that vacation rental websites, such as Airbnb and VRBO, would levy and collect 10 percent VAT on the rental income that their Bahamian listings earned from clients.

These online marketplaces would then remit the taxes collected to the Government. The former Minnis administration amended the VAT Act in the initial 20212022 Budget to bring this into effect, expanding the tax regime beyond simply imposing a levy on the listing fees charged by Airbnb and its competitors, but this newspaper understands this never implemented in practice.

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Gov’t fails in strike-out bid on oil terminal land

THE Government’s bid to strike out a rival ownership claim to 180 acres of land that is now sub-leased to a major foreign investor was this week dismissed by the Supreme Court.

Justice Petra HannaAdderley, in her August 2, 2023, verdict found that John Russell’s claim to land that is now part of the Grand Bahama oil storage terminal

formerly owned by Equinor is “not an obvious case” to be struck out given that it has raised “issues fit to be tried” by the judicial system.

The Attorney General’s Office, representing

‘Don’t share carbon credit benefits with oil explorer’

ENVIRONMENTAL activists yesterday argued that the full benefits from creating carbon credits, and their subsequent trading, should go to the Bahamian people and not be shared with an oil explorer seeking to recover its $150m investment.

Rashema Ingraham, executive director of Waterkeepers Bahamas,

told Tribune Business that Challenger Energy Group, the former Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC), should not be using carbon credits as “collateral” or leverage in its dealings with the Government. The Davis administration previously told this newspaper it is “examining the merits” of Challenger’s proposal on how it could “monetise” its assets in this nation via an alternative to

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Drivers ‘premature’ on 25 cent bus fare hike

BOTH the Government and bus owners yesterday said it was “premature” for jitney drivers to announce that fares will increase by 25 cents per trip for adults and junior/senior high school students with effect from Monday, August 14.

The Ministry of Transport and Housing, in a statement last night, said the Davis administration “has not concluded its deliberations for an effective date for the implementation of an increase in fares for

the jitney industry” following the communication released by the Bahamas Unified Bus Drivers Union (BUDU).

Addressed to franchise holders, bus owners and drivers, it advised that jitney fares will be increasing by 25 cents for adults and junior and high school students with effect from August 14. This would take the bus fare to $1.50 for adults and $1.25 for junior and high school students in uniform during school hours, and $1.50 for the latter during school breaks and weekends. The rates for elderly passengers and

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the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC), which sub-leased the South Riding Point property to the oil storage terminal’s operator in 2013, had argued that the action should be dismissed because it is “an abuse of process” plus “hopeless and doomed to failure”.

Its representatives also asserted that Mr Russell, while asserting that a fraud had been perpetrated, did not “specifically plead” this in his legal documents, and that his claim was statute-barred

because it was filed outside the timeframe stipulated in the Limitation Act.

Mr Russell, as the purported heir-at-law to William Russell, is alleging that he is the rightful owner of the 180-acre tract by virtue of a January 17, 1827, Crown Land grant to his ancestor that is recorded in the Registry of Records. He claims that the Crown then violated his ownership rights by leasing the same property to BAIC

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FISHERMEN are urging the Government to treat poaching as “a major economic crime” with many yesterday said to be reporting that their lobster traps and condos were plundered before lobster season’s August 1 start.

Paul Maillis, the National Fisheries Association’s secretary, told Tribune Business that The Bahamas needs to start “making an example” of persons caught fishing illegally and not only seize their boats and catch but threaten to put them on the ‘stop list’ so that they can never set foot in this nation again.

Such punishment, he added, should not just be applied to well-publicised Dominican poachers but Florida residents and second homeowners who are found to be fishing outof-season, exceeding their catch limits and interfering with traps set by commercial Bahamian fishermen.

“A lot of our members and a lot of fishermen are reporting that their lobster traps were dived well before the season opened,” Mr Maillis told this newspaper. “The poaching that comes from America is still steady, still remains. Always has been.

“And some of our members caught some of those second homeowners diving their condos a day or two before the season opened. They drove up, took pictures of them and these people said they were second homeowners and just doing some fishing. It’s crazy.

“It seems to persist year after year. People coming in from Florida, breaking the regulations, breaching their permits and catch limits. We have non-Bahamian second homeowners,