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Volume: 119 No.240, November 8, 2022
THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: PRICE–$1
EVACUATE
Coastal residents in GB and Abaco told...
• Vulnerable urged to get to safety • Schools and govt offices closed from noon today • Abaco and GB prepare for the worst • Call to ‘move inland’ from West End and East End By LETRE SWEETING lsweeting@tribunemedia.net WITH Grand Bahama and Abaco projected to take a “direct hit” from Subtropical Storm Nicole, Acting Prime Minister Chester Cooper urged residents in low lying areas and those in compromised structures to evacuate. He said law enforcement officials will be providing evacuation assistance before the storm, but stressed that once conditions deteriorate, emergency responders will be “constrained” to provide help until the all clear is given. Forecasters predict
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the storm will pass directly over Grand Bahama, with Abaco poised to feel harsh impacts of the system as well. The two islands are still reeling from the devastation Hurricane Dorian brought in 2019. Nicole is expected to strengthen into category one hurricane by
Wednesday, however last night a Department of Meteorology forecaster said the storm should be out of the country and in the vicinity of Florida at that point. However, officials stress that storms rapidly intensify and change, adding the threat should not be
SEE PAGES TWO & THREE ACTING Prime Minister Chester Cooper at yesterday’s press conference.
REMINDER OF HORRORS OF DORIAN ABACO and Grand Bahama residents were preparing for the worst and stocking up emergency supplies as news of approaching Subtropical Storm Nicole brought eerie reminders of the horrors of Hurricane Dorian, which brought devastation to both islands in 2019. According to forecasters yesterday, Nicole is expected to affect Grand
Bahama as a category one hurricane on Wednesday, while bringing tropical storm force winds to Abaco. North Abaco Chief Councillor D’Angelo Edgecombe said yesterday many residents feared that Nicole would be another dramatic experience, similar to Hurricane Dorian. The anxiety led residents to pile up at gas stations and food stores in an effort to prepare for Nicole’s arrival.
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net CHINA Construction America (CCA) paid $2.4m to a company run by the son of Sir Baltron Bethel, senior policy adviser and lead Baha Mar negotiator for Perry Christie, when the dispute over the mega resort was at its peak. The payments to Notarc Management Group, whose chief executive is Leslie Bethel, are revealed in documents filed last Friday with the New York Supreme Court as the multi-billion dollar legal battle between CCA and Baha Mar’s original developer, Sarkis Izmirlian, resumed with a vengeance. Both Sir Baltron and his son yesterday denied that CCA’s payments to Notarc Management Group influenced the former’s stance towards the dispute and its participants, or his advice to the Government and its actions, after Mr Izmirlian filed for a Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in summer 2015. That move ultimately proved futile and led to his ouster as the $4.2bn project’s developer. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
‘I TOLD YOU SO’ AS GRAND LUCAYAN DEAL COLLAPSES
taken lightly. Abaco is expected to begin feeling tropical storm winds this evening, with Grand Bahama to feel tropical storm impacts beginning at 11pm tonight. Tropical storm conditions in the Berry Islands are expected
By JADE RUSSELL jrussell@tribunemedia.net
CCA PAID $2.4M TO PM ADVISOR’S SON’S FIRM DURING BAHA MAR DISPUTE
Mr Edgecombe said residents were preparing and monitoring the storm, as many still were struggling to recover from Dorian. When asked how residents were handling the anticipation, he said: “It’s a mix of feelings, some folks you know see that it’s a category one. But I heard someone say well God forbid, Dorian started out the same way and in no time it progressed. So definitely we don’t want that.” SEE PAGE TWO
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Grand Lucayan’s former chairman, Michael Scott, last night said “I told you so” after the government admitted the resort’s $100m sale has collapsed and it is now seeking an alternative purchaser. Mr Scott, who headed Lucayan Renewal Holdings under the former Minnis administration, told Tribune Business he had been informed several weeks ago that the deal with Electra America Hospitality Group was in trouble as its current board begins “active discussions” with an unnamed replacement. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
PAGE 2, Tuesday, November 8, 2022
THE TRIBUNE
Coastal residents in GB and around Wednesday at 12am, 2am on Wednesday in New Providence and 5am in Bimini. “What I want to say to all Bahamians and residents, but particularly those in the north and central Bahamas is that we must take the threat of Hurricane Nicole seriously,” Mr Cooper said in a live address from the National Emergency Management Agency last night. “I cannot stress enough that it is better to make preparations and not need them than to take no precautions and regret it. “Abaco and Grand Bahama are projected to take a direct hit from Hurricane Nicole. Bimini and Berry Islands are also in the path of the storm. Residents of those islands should take every precaution to secure themselves and their property immediately.” Schools and government offices in the mentioned islands will be closed today until the all clear is given.
Airports and seaports on the affected islands are expected to close when the wind reaches 40 knots or higher, he said, adding that it is anticipated this will occur this evening. “Nicole is expected to come when seas are already at a high tide, increasing the chance of flooding. We are strongly urging everyone in low lying areas, particularly in east and west Grand Bahama and Abaco to move further inland. We are asking everyone living in domes, trailers and structures on Abaco and Grand Bahama in particular that are not up to code to make immediate plans to evacuate, to move to a hurricane shelter or another safe place. “I assure you that all agencies of government under the command of NEMA are engaged and mobilised throughout the country. They will be providing evacuation assistance before the storm arrives. I reiterate that police and defence force officers, and emergency personnel will
be providing evacuation services before the storm arrives but will secure themselves once danger presents itself. “We repeat our requests that you not try to ride out the storm in domes, trailers, makeshift residences or low lying areas as emergency services will be constrained to provide assistance until the all clear is given,” Mr Cooper said. At a press conference earlier yesterday, NEMA Director Captain Stephen Russell also urged Bahamians on the islands in the track of the storm to take shelter and heed evacuation orders. Captain Russell expressed concern for vulnerable areas of both Abaco and Grand Bahama, adding both locals and irregular migrants needed to find suitable shelter. He added: “I cannot ask emergency responders to go and yuck persons from areas that have been declared evacuation zones. But we can encourage persons as best we can.
strongest tropical storm force winds associated with Nicole by 6pm this evening and at sunrise on Thursday 7am. In West End, she said the north side will be impacted and battered by sea water causing coastal flooding. “So, if you know that your area is prone to flooding along the coast, if you can, move inland or to a shelter because we do anticipate coastal flooding along the north shore areas,” Ms Bonimy said. “However, any southern shift in the track will result in more coastal flooding as it relates to wave and storm surge for West End. “You can prepare for evacuation because the fact that the storm will be a hurricane, the onshore flow the wind coming ashore is going to be for such a long duration and will pile water along that north coast road in West End,” she stated. Residents in East End should also evacuate as coastal flooding is expected there too, Ms Bonimy said. “In eastern Grand Bahama, we anticipate coastal flooding in a range of three to five feet. With king tide and onshore flow, there will be susceptibility
to flooding in the road. We would tell communities to evacuate as soon as possible. All tropical storm preparations should have been completed by Monday.” Ms Bonimy indicated that the minimum threshold for movement would be around noon today. “After that, we start to go downhill, so you still have leeway to get out,” she said. As for rainfall, she said it is projected that most of the rainfall should be offshore, with a total of two to four inches of rainfall expected between today and Thursday evening. Waves height at sea is expected to between 15 to 17ft in addition to sea swells, which could generate anywhere between 25 to 30ft in open waters, Ms Bonimy said. Dorothea Gomez, officer in charge of the Department of Social Services, said shelters will open at noon today. She said that persons using shelters should take food supplies and medication with them. Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey said residents must prepare for the storm.
“We need all hands on deck as we face the impending storm and likely impact,” she said. “We do not welcome the storm, but we know that God is with us and will keep us.” Ms Moxey said residents must take every storm seriously and make necessary precautions. “Regardless of how serious the system is expected to be, you need to prepare for the worst-case scenario, including the risk of coast flooding, heavy winds, rain, rip currents and beach erosion,” she said, adding that Grand Bahama is resilient and will get through this storm. Hardware stores were beginning to experience a rush of shoppers yesterday. Lynne Fraino, marketing manager of Kelly’s Ltd, reported that shoppers were rushing into the store to stock up on hurricane supplies. “Our store is fully stocked with all the essentials, and we encourage residents of Grand Bahama to continue to quickly get prepared,” she said. Dolly Madison, Third Dimension, and water depots were also busy as residents rushed out for supplies.
from page one
ACTING Prime Minister Chester Cooper yesterday.
CALL TO ‘MOVE INLAND’ FROM EST END AND EAST END By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net WITH Grand Bahama bracing for hurricane conditions on Wednesday, residents of West End and East End are advised to evacuate as soon as possible as coastal flooding between three to six feet is expected. The island should begin to experience tropical storm conditions by this evening. At a press briefing held by the Grand Disaster Consultative Committee yesterday, Chief Meteorologist for Northern Bahamas Shavon Moxey-Bonimy said that Subtropical Storm Nicole is expected to strengthen into a category one hurricane and pass
directly over the island by tomorrow evening. “The centre is expected to be directly over Grand Bahama as a category one on Wednesday evening. We have to be preparing for a hurricane. There is no if, ands, or buts about that - no need to sugar coat it. We are going to have to be preparing for a hurricane. We are hoping for the best and that it will remain a low-end hurricane, but either way it is going to be a hurricane.” Ms Bonimy said the storm is moving on a northwest track as projected – as did Hurricane Jeanne in 2004. “If you can remember in 2004, it is mimicking Hurricane Jeanne 100 percent - it is like the exact same
track. One of the things that is going to be of concern is the continuous onshore north to south wind flow on the north coast of Grand Bahama.” In terms of the wind flow, Ms Bonimy said it will be coming onshore from the northeast for at least 54 hours, resulting in a pile up of water along the north coast. “Do not panic, we anticipate storm surge between three to five feet, and in some instances up to four to six feet. But most of that should be confined to the immediate initial inside coast of Grand Bahama as the system moves from east to west,” she explained. Ms Bonimy said Grand Bahama could expect the
REMINDER OF HORRORS OF DORIAN from page one Another resident, Bishop Cedric Bullard, yesterday said he never stopped preparing for the hurricane season. He said he urged members of his church to learn from their Hurricane Dorian experience. Bishop Bullard told this newspaper yesterday that he was ready to hit the ground in Abaco to assist as many people as he could with final preparations. “We are going to walk around and check on persons, especially vulnerable people like the seniors in our church. To make sure they are up to speed and that they are up to date with everything.” East Grand Bahama member of Parliament Kwasi Thompson said amid preparations, some residents on that island had been advised to evacuate their homes. This was the case for those at Sweeting’s Cay, which is considered a vulnerable area. The East Grand Bahama MP said he also advised people in other low-lying areas to leave their homes and seek alternative shelters. “We are also awaiting the call as to what is going to happen with residents out in the East End settlements,” Mr Thompson said. “We just came out of an emergency meeting with all of the government agencies, briefing us as to their preparations. All of the government agencies seem to have already activated their emergency protocols.
“We will be in the community this afternoon. I am advising the community to one, be vigilant but also in the eastern settlements, those who are low-lying settlements, we are advising them to evacuate as well.” In terms of facilitating those residents who will need to evacuate, Mr Thompson said the local government was coordinating transportation for people and the Ministry of Social Services had a specific shelter to aid with the east settlements on the island. Mr Thompson said Grand Bahama residents were very concerned about Subtropical Storm Nicole. For his part, Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard, who is also Marco City MP, said the FNM was prepared to facilitate residents and aid in their preparedness for the storm. “We will support not only government efforts but independent of government we have been helping residents,” Mr Pintard told this newspaper, “Because the government’s response since they’ve come to office, there has been minimal support in terms of them transforming homes or continuing the system we have in place that provided financial assistance to hire contractors or to buy building supplies.” When asked whether he thought residents in Grand Bahama were concerned by storm alerts and would take advice to evacuate seriously, Mr Pintard said: “I believe residents in Grand Bahama in general will be far more sensitive to any
recommendation of moving that they have ever been given, given the experience of Dorian.” Yesterday, acting Prime Minister Chester Cooper said in view of the storm, residents needed to brace themselves for the worst. Mr Cooper said the government was closely monitoring Storm Nicole. “The late-season storm is a reminder that we’re not out of the woods yet as the Atlantic hurricane season continues through November 30. “As projections are subject to change, we urge you to follow the official releases of The Bahamas Department of Meteorology. Currently, Abaco, Andros and the Berry Islands, Bimini, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera and New Providence are under tropical storm watch. “Please do not take this storm lightly. Nicole poses an imminent threat to the islands under the warning. “Everyone must prepare for the worst. For those who cannot secure themselves at home, please make preparations to move to the nearest storm shelter. “Abaco and Grand Bahama are currently directly in the path of the storm, which could strengthen over the next 36-48 hours.” he said in a statement. As the central government took precautions, the Ministry of Education Technical and Vocational Training announced the closure of all schools on the islands of Abaco, Grand Bahama and the Berry Islands, effective from today.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 8, 2022, PAGE 3
Abaco are told to evacuate “I cannot send back emergency responders after you refused and changed your mind. We will come one time and say it’s time to move. If you don’t want to go, just give us your next of kin and the team will move on.” Last night, he said all shelters in warning areas will be activated at 9am today. He added that plans are in motion to evacuate people from Grand Cay and Sweeting’s Cay to mainland Grand Bahama this morning.
Nicole was moving at 45 mph yesterday towards the northwest at eight mph. Forecaster Arnold King said residents should expect strong winds, heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, waterspouts and possibly tornadoes. “The wind field is fairly large, it extends outward up to 275 miles. We expect rainfall between Wednesday and Thursday to be two to four inches with local maximum amounts of up to six inches. Storm surge amounts of up to three to
CHIEF meteorologic officer Arnold King speaking yesterday. Photos: Austin Fernander
LYNDEN PINDLING AIRPORT TO SUSPEND OPERATIONS IN STORM LYNDEN Pindling International Airport will suspend aircraft operations for several hours on Wednesday due to anticipated tropical storm conditions. The airport will operate as normal today, however airline schedules may vary, the Nassau Airport Development Company said. NAD said stakeholders began meeting with forecasters yesterday to enable them to assess the projected movement and status of Subtropical Stoem Nicole and its potential impact on LPIA. On its current track, it is anticipated that Nassau will experience tropical storm force winds around 2am Wednesday. “As such, aircraft operations would be suspended
for several hours on Wednesday, as tropical storm conditions are projected to remain in effect over New Providence throughout the day,” NAD said. A further update is expected today. The travelling public is encouraged to contact their respective airlines for flight updates. A listing of all airlines and their contacts can be found on LPIA’s website at www.nassaulpia.com. The Ministry of Transport and Housing said last night that all ports in the northwest Bahamas, which includes New Providence, are to cease operations no later than today at 7am. “The normal force majeure and hurricane berthing remain in place,” the ministry said.
CAPTIN STEPHEN RUSSELL, director of NEMA.
MINISTER of State in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for disaster preparedness and emergency response Myles LaRoda.
five feet are expected as well.” The storm was initially expected to be a category one hurricane as it moved
across Grand Bahama, but last night Geoffrey Greene from the Department of Meteorology said that forecast has changed.
“The storm was projected to be a hurricane as it crossed the Grand Bahama area, however (on) further update, that system will
now be out of The Bahamas when it becomes a hurricane — near the West Palm Beach area of Florida,” he said at a press conference.
PAGE 4, Tuesday, November 8, 2022
THE TRIBUNE
Ground-breaking operation to cut out kidney tumor By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
THE TUMOR removed in the operation.
BAHAMIAN urologist Dr Greggory Pinto and Bahamian interventional radiologist Dr Mikhail Higgins successfully conducted laparoscopic surgery at Doctors Hospital during a first-time collaboration for the removal of a kidney tumor that was larger than the kidney. In a post-operative interview with The Tribune yesterday, Dr Pinto said the removal of the tumor on the left kidney of a 56-yearold woman was “minimally invasive”. Although both Dr Pinto and Dr Higgins have performed this procedure numerous times, the embolisation of the left massive kidney cancerous tumor and partial left nephrectomy was the first of its kind locally. As the country’s first board-certified fellowshiptrained interventional radiologist, Dr Higgins performed the initial stages of the minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. “So, what the interventional radiologist (Dr
DR GREGGORY PINTO Higgins) does is the day lower risk. before we surgically remove After practising for 12 the left kidney tumor, they years, Dr Pinto describes would minimally invasively this surgery as “cuttingembolise the blood supply edge technology” for while the patient is con- cancer treatment and sciously sedated,” Dr Pinto management. said. He said: “I think it can “They’ll do minimal reassure the public that access to the blood vessels we can deal with basically going up even tiny coils and anything in terms of cancer cut off the blood supply to treatment or managethe left kidney tumor. So, ment with the cutting-edge the very next day when I as technology that is readily a urologist take the patient available to us. for surgery to remove the “So, we have minimally kidney tumor, I don’t have invasive capabilities that to contend with the exten- are disposable in terms of sive blood supply and worry doing procedures laparoabout blood loss and try scopically. Just making little to get access to numerous keyhole incisions using long blood vessels,” he continued. instruments with a camera Dr Higgins’ work allowed that we placed inside the room for Dr Pinto and his abdomen.” assistant Dr Leonard SteHe also noted the advanphens to solely concentrate tages of these revolutionary on his aspect of the surgery surgeries, such as the quick and ensured the patient’s recovery and minimal posttumor was successfully operative pain. removed. Dr Pinto, who has studied This collaboration in Jamaica, South Africa, between both parties Germany, and India, said it ensured the operation is an honour to return home was less complex and time and have the opportunity to consuming, and addition- perform these procedures ally put the patient at for Bahamians.
CARBON-NEGATIVE HOMES PLANNED BY RIC FO ’S COMPANY By KHRISNA RUSSELL Tribune Chief Reporter krussell@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis with Partanna co-founders Rick Fox and Sam Marshall. Photo: OPM
THE Davis administration is eyeing the development of the world’s first carbon-negative housing community as it seeks to mitigate the impacts of climate change disasters, three years after Hurricane Dorian ravaged Abaco and portions of Grand Bahama. To do this, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis announced that his administration signed a memorandum of understanding with Partanna, whose co-founder is Bahamian Rick Fox, a former Los Angeles Lakers basketball player. The company is investing $50m into the Bahamian economy to establish its manufacturing plant in the country. Around 100 jobs will be provided to Bahamians during the course of the pilot phase of the project. Mr Fox partnered with architect Sam Marshall, whose background is in hospitality, to develop what the prime minister described as “an exciting innovation in helping to reduce carbon”. Mr Davis said the MoU will set The Bahamas on a path to sustainable, longterm adaptation in the face of climate change. The first 30 affordable homes to be built with the new sustainable material are set for Abaco next year. “I am pleased to announce today, a memorandum of understanding signed between Partanna and the government of The Bahamas,” Mr Davis said during a press conference on the sidelines of COP27, which is being held this year in Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt. “The promise of the Partanna material is both an exciting innovation in helping to reduce carbon, and, for The Bahamas, also a path to sustainable,longterm adaptation in the face of climate change. “Under the partnership, which I’m announcing today, Partanna will begin a pilot project to design, develop, finance and construct 30 affordable homes.”
Under the MoU, Mr Davis said Partanna must provide proof of verification for the carbon credits, which will be associated with their product in relation to the technology used in the construction of the homes. Each home is expected to generate 260 of the highest valued carbon credits on the market, Mr Davis said. “Provided the verification process is successful, which I have no doubt it would be, over the following three years, we have committed that Partanna will increase that number to build 1,000 affordable, sustainable homes,” the prime minister also said. “This arrangement satisfies two key priorities of my government: firstly, to provide affordable, sustainable housing in The Bahamas, and secondly, to meet the carbon priorities of the country. “The government also wishes to create a new, carbon-negative building industry, which will generate new job opportunities and training for Bahamians. You would have seen on the video at the opening of this press conference the young men that he has working at the factory off Carmichael Road. “Their investment of $50m into the Bahamian economy to establish the manufacturing plant is most welcome. We hope that this is just the beginning. “Partanna has committed to providing employment for at least 100 Bahamians over the life of the pilot project. They will also provide training in the new skill sets required to create the foundation of this new global industry, which The Bahamas is leading. “The Partanna technology is forecast to generate approximately 260 of the highest-valued carbon credits on the market, per home, paving the way for a sustainable future for The Bahamas. “The company has also committed to enter into further negotiations with us, the government, to discuss the use of any carbon credits generated as a result
of the pilot project and moving forward. “Under this agreement, the dream of home ownership will soon become more of a reality for many Bahamians,” Mr Davis said. Mr Fox at times became tearful as he spoke of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Dorian, which was ultimately the inspiration for Partanna. He was also moved to tears as he spoke of trying to save the world from climate change. “We’re in the hot zone, we’re in the front line,” Mr Fox said yesterday. “Together Sam and I got to work and we developed a technology that has the potential to change the way we build in the world. “If you know anything about the construction industry, 38 percent of all emissions are generated from the construction industry. Nine percent alone coming from the cement we create. “We need to build better. We need to delink development from pollution. Partanna provides the opportunity for us to do that, for us to build in a more nature-positive way. “We use recycled materials which allows it to be carbon negative over its life cycle. Our technology is affordable, scalable and completely sustainable and for people living in countries like my country, homes can be built using Partanna and can create hurricane resilient regenerative homes because our products get stronger when we’re exposed to seawater. “Now think about that? In a world where rising sea levels are a fact, when I walk the beach at Montagu Beach that my dad walked every morning, I don’t see the same beach. Sea levels are rising. “By 2100, two billion people will be refugees from rising sea levels. So, when you’re building structures in our case where we’re surrounded by water, you better believe that our structures better meet nature’s elements and in our case get stronger,” Mr Fox said.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 8, 2022, PAGE 5
More than 300 firearms seized by police this year By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander said more than 300 firearms and more than 4,000 rounds of ammunition have been seized this year. He said firearms are used in the commission of 90 percent of all violent crimes in the country. He gave the statistics while speaking at the Small Arms and Light Weapons Training Course opening ceremony at Police Headquarters yesterday. The training initiative for law enforcement is meant to assist in the fight against the importation of illegal and illicit firearms. Bridget Premont, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) director, explained that since 2015 the United States through its embassy in Nassau has dedicated $25 million to assist The Bahamas in the fight against drugs and weapons trafficking but also to support police professionalisation, and to strengthen the rule of law in The Bahamas. She added that number includes more than $4m to provide new police boats and to replace RBPF vehicles that were lost to Hurricane Dorian. “This morning, the US government is proud to (find) this training implemented by the World Customs Organisation. The programme is an $800,000 two-year partnership that will focus on partner nations in the Caribbean to build regional capacity to deter and disrupt the flow of illicit weapons, ammunition and narcotics. So as was mentioned, we have colleagues from the US Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - ATF, and also from Homeland Security Investigations - HSI, who will participate in this national training on small arms and light weapons. I understand it will last for five days and include classroom and practical exercises,” the INL director stated. “This work supports the work that ATF and HSI are already doing with the RBPF to identify weapons recovered at crime scenes in The Bahamas. This matters because we see that illicit trafficking has fueled local gun related crime, and tested law enforcement and justice sector institutions. We know that transnational criminal networks illegally transport firearms into the Caribbean, hidden in air and sea freight shipments on fishing boats, and pleasure yachts, and via the mail and private package delivery companies. “We know it’s the same criminal networks that acquire US source firearms using straw purchasers
who are persons without criminal records typically who can pass a background check. To counter this, we expect this training will improve customs controls, close capacity gaps, establish shared best practices, and cultivate deeper inter agency cooperation and trust - that collaboration that will help us succeed. These are all elements, essential elements for law enforcement to be effective in this fight.” Commissioner Fernander emphasised the importance of the training as well as the issue with firearms. “Firearms are used in the commission of 90 percent of all violent crimes in The Bahamas including murder and armed robbery. I would just like to highlight, thus far for the year with respect to firearms recovered off our streets, thus far, we have a total of 329 firearms which includes pistols and high-powered rifles. This number climbed over the weekend. We were successful in taking the number of firearms off our streets over the weekend; 4,685 ammunition, assorted ammunition also taken off the streets thus far for the year,” he said. “We fully embrace this national training on small arms and light weapons as it will benefit our law enforcement agencies in the fight against illegal firearms entering The Bahamas. This training is very timely for the Royal Bahamas Police Force because we are about to officially launch our Firearms and Anti-Gang Task Force Unit. In the next week and a half, our agency, our task force will be launched to tackle illegal weapons and gang violence in our country,” he said. National Security Minister Wayne Munroe further addressed the accessibility of illicit guns pointing to the time it takes to receive in comparison to the police. “From where we stand as policymakers, it’s selfevident the need to stop the flow of illegal firearms to our streets. It is far too easy to be in possession of an illicit gun here,” he said. “The irony is that with the help of Homeland Security Investigation and the ATF, the Royal Bahamas Police Force tells me that we’re recovering guns off our streets that have been imported in a shorter time than the Royal Bahamas Police Force is able to legally import its weapons into this country. “And so where it takes months to go through all of the proper documentation to control the flow of arms for a police organisation, criminal elements do not have those concerns. And so it is very important that we understand their methods, their methodology, and we cooperate in this matter.”
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe yesterday.
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander speaking to the media yesterday.
Photos: Moise Amisial
PAGE 6, Tuesday, November 8, 2022
THE TRIBUNE
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Take storm Nicole seriously OF all the people in our nation, the ones who need to be reminded least of the importance of taking a storm seriously are the people of Abaco and Grand Bahama. It’s not just the devastation that was inflicted on those islands in 2019 when Hurricane Dorian hit, it’s the fact that even now, years later, residents there are still reeling, still rebuilding, still grieving. Nicole is the name of the new storm, that may or may not reach hurricane status by the time it hits us, but is certainly one to watch, and one to beware of. Yesterday, government officials were not holding back. If you are in a low lying area in Grand Bahama and Abaco, get out. If you are in a compromised structure, get out. Churches are checking on vulnerable individuals, and coastal flooding is expected between three and six feet in height. Yesterday, the chief meteorologist for Northern Bahamas, Shavon MoxeyBonimy, urged people not to panic, but warned: “We anticipate storm surge between three to five feet, and in some instances up to four to six feet.” She added: “If you know that your area is prone to flooding along the coast, if you can, move inland or to a shelter because we do anticipate coastal flooding along the north shore areas. However, any southern shift in the track will result in more coastal flooding as it relates to wave and storm surge for West End.” Acting Prime Minister Chester Cooper – standing in while Philip “Brave” Davis is discussing the effects of climate change on our nation far away in Egypt – warned Grand Bahama
and Abaco were poised to take a “direct hit” from the storm. He said: “We must take the threat of Hurricane Nicole seriously.” He added: “I cannot stress enough that it is better to make preparations and not need them than to take no precautions and regret it. “Abaco and Grand Bahama are projected to take a direct hit from Hurricane Nicole. Bimini and Berry Islands are also in the path of the storm. Residents of those islands should take every precaution to secure themselves and their property immediately.” He also said: “We repeat our requests that you not try to ride out the storm in domes, trailers, makeshift residences or low lying areas as emergency services will be constrained to provide assistance until the all clear is given.” In today’s Tribune, we publish the list of shelters in the affected islands – and will also publish them online at www. tribune242.com. First thing first, be safe. We have faced disaster before, and we have suffered heartbreak at the loss it brought. Do everything you can to ensure you come through the storm. And for those who are able, also check on your neighbours – help them if they need it to get prepared. Offer a ride if you can for those who need one to get to a shelter. Prepare your hurricane kits. Put your essential documents in a waterproof container you can easily take with you. We hope Nicole will not be a storm whose name we remember with horror, the way we do with Dorian. But we should prepare for it as if we face the worst. Be ready.
HINDU women light oil lamps at the Banganga pond as they celebrate Dev Diwali festival in Mumbai, India, yesterday. Photo: Rafiq Maqbool/AP
Zero logic on electric vehicles EDITOR, The Tribune. So lowering the Duty and the costs to land electric vehicles was a priority in these times when Treasury needs all the money they can find? Okay on the climate issue, but how many EWS would you need to in even the smallest manner improve the CO2 or emissions levels of Nassau? So a EV RN will save you $10,000 plus in gas
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net purchase. Government will loose $1.12 per every gallon saved so isn’t that a start of a loss of revenue? You dropped Duty on a $40,000 vehicle plus less VAT for what? Sorry, there is zero logic in this. The stature of the person buying a EV can easily afford the old Duty plus the VAT-4-his weekly
purchase of at least $40.00 of gas! Why? Sip-sip Government leasing a lot of these electric vehicles so the lower cost to land the better the lease price is. In meantime Treasury loses out on this climate kick which is in our environment all politics as what we do has zero global effect - yes zero effect. JANET SMITH Nassau, October 28, 2022.
Journalists in fear EDITOR, The Tribune. IT IS horrible that journalists in Zimbabwe are living lives of fear. They are persecuted for inciting corruption in the public. Good example is Hopewell Chinono who was arrested on July 31, 2020 and the ZANU PF are still denying him bail because he
exposed the corruption of Zimbabwe. Some of the journalists can lose their lives because of this brutal ruling of the ZANU PF government. This shows that the Zimbabwean government is agitated about the truth which is being exposed and it’s a sign that they are denying in making
Zimbabwe a great nation again. President Mnangagwa and his government should resign immediately because they had failed the nation and he should stop interfering in journalists’ lives.
AFTER it was announced that 2,000 government workers were being offered pay rises, readers of www. tribune242.com joined the conversation. Flyingfish said: “The last people who should be getting pay rise is the office workers who is don’t answer the phone and disappear for 2hr for lunch.” Bahamianson said: “Wow, where is the money going to come from? Are your heads in the sand? Where is the money going to come from? The people in Government treat the public purse like it is their personal account.” Sheeprunner12 added: “There are many hard working public officers and like any profession, the bad apples spoil the bunch. “The usual cry that public officers are lazy and goodfor-nothing is very unfair to those who work diligently to keep the creaky wheels of Government turning. “The political interference in the public service has a lot to do with the inefficiency and ineffectiveness of some agencies. So be it.”
TalRussell said: “In an increasingly uncertain world markets, more pay and hiring for the public servants workforce is not one of the ways to minimize foreign currency risk.Yes?” However, Sickened responded: “We simply can’t afford to keep the number of government workers we currently have on the payroll, let alone give 2,000 of them an increase. As Bahamianson said (above) - where is this money coming from?”
JohnQ added: “Given the economic forecasts from virtually every major finance organization, it seems the Government should be increasingly concerned or at least aware of the possibility of deep recession and down turn in revenue. Printing money isn’t a solution.” Sounding a pessimistic note, Proguing concluded: “Can we get downgraded any lower?”
TAPIWA MUSKWE London, November 2, 2022.
Readers speak up
• Join in the conversation at www.tribune242.com.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 8, 2022, PAGE 7
TEEN ACCUSED OF KILLING GERMAN By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net A TEENAGER was charged in a Magistrate’s Court yesterday in connection with a double shooting in Andros that killed a German and wounded another earlier this month. Derron Smith, 18, of South Andros, faced Senior Magistrate Carolyn VogtEvans accused of murdering 57-year-old Torsten Wilhelm Hendrick and the attempted murder of Wolfgang Hendrick at Johnson Bay on November 2. He was one of several men brought before the court yesterday on murder charges. Police said sometime around 8pm on November 2, three German men were outside their summer residence when they were approached by a masked gunman. The victims attempted to run inside the residence when the suspect opened fire, resulting in two of them being shot. The suspect then fled. The victims were taken to the local clinic; however, one of them died. The other was airlifted to the capital for medical assistance. Smith, who was not represented by an attorney, was not required to enter a plea to the charges during his arraignment yesterday. He was also informed that his case would proceed by way of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). As a result, bail was denied and he was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDCS) until March 23. He
has a right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail. Also appearing in court yesterday was 48-year-old Lynden Vincent. Vincent was charged with the October 31 shooting of Patrice Sawyer. Sawyer was fatally shot outside her home on Johnson Road after receiving a phone call to come outside, police said. Relatives found her dead with an apparent gunshot to the head and another to the upper body. Due to the nature of the charges, Vincent was not required to enter a plea. Bail was denied and he was also remanded to prison until February 1, 2023 for presentation of a VBI. He can apply to the Supreme Court for bail. In a separate murder arraignment, Ahmad Clarke, 24, Ashton Wilson, 21 and Omar Atkinson, 22, were charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Fred Lifaite on October 29. Lifaite was killed in the area of Sixth Street and Poinciana Avenue when two gunmen in a vehicle approached, firing shots in his direction. Neither of the accused was allowed to enter a plea and were remanded to prison. They will return to court on February 9 for presentation of their VBI. Clarke, who was said to have had an outstanding warrant conviction, will serve a default sentence of six months in jail for failing to pay fines after being charged with violating the lockdown and deceiving a public officer during the pandemic.
JAILED FOR TOUCHING 17-YEAR-OLD By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net A 61-YEAR-OLD man who admitted to touching a minor’s backside while she was on her way to the store was sentenced to one month in prison yesterday. Police arrested Gregory McKenzie after a 17-yearold reported to officers that he indecently assaulted her. The incident is said to have happened on October 27. Prosecutor Sgt Vanessa Moss told the court the complainant reported she was on her way to the grocery store in the Jubilee Gardens area when the accused grabbed her, spanked her on the behind and inserted his finger into her vagina. Police later arrested the accused and cautioned him. Police said that during his interview, the defendant admitted to spanking the teenager, but denied penetrating her private parts. Before Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr, the accused stood by his account of what happened, insisting the only thing he did was “touch the girl from behind”. “I just touch her pants. I didn’t touch her bare buttocks,” he said. He said he knew the
victim and said after committing the act he went to her family to apologise. While at the home, he said family members were angry and attacked him. “I still took the beating because I know the whole family,” he added. When asked if he was remorseful, McKenzie said he was. Asked if he had any children, he said he had none. Yesterday, the prosecution argued McKenzie’s action may have caused emotional distress to the victim and asked the court to consider this fact along with frequency in crimes against women and children. She also pointed to the defendant’s mature age, saying he should have known better. Magistrate Allen said while he took into consideration the defendant’s early guilty plea and claims of being remorseful, he could not overlook his actions. He told the accused he should have been aware there would have been consequences and said the court had to send a strong message to the public that it would not tolerate such behaviour from anyone. As a result, he was sentenced to one month behind bars.
MAN ACCUSED OF UNLAWFUL SEX By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after he was accused of having unlawful sex with a 15-yearold girl earlier this year. Bradshaw Brown was charged in the Magistrate’s Court with two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse. Police allege that he had unlawful sex with the minor
on January 3 and then on January 7. Due to the nature of the offence, the accused was not required to enter a plea. Bail was denied and he was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until presentation of his voluntary bill of indictment on March 22. He was told that he has a right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail.
MURDER BID SUSPECTS IN COURT By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net TWO men accused of attempted murder were remanded to prison yesterday. Dino Smith, 28, and Cleophus Smith, 30, appeared before Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr, accused of trying to kill Leonard Symonette on October 23. The men, who were represented by attorney
Nathan Smith, were not required to enter a plea in court and were told that their case would proceed by way of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). The men were told their case would be heard before the Supreme Court, where they can also apply for bail. They were remanded to prison as a result and are expected to return to court for presentation of their VBI on February 9.
Munroe heralds more ‘aggressive’ bail move By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said the director of public prosecutions has agreed to have someone marshal bail revocations in the Supreme Court with lawyers from the commissioner of police’s office so that there can be a more “aggressive” process. Last week, Mr Munroe said officials were not satisfied with the DPP’s management of his office. He had also said previously that officials are concerned about the number of people committing offences while they are on bail and being electronically monitored. While speaking on the sidelines of an event yesterday at police headquarters, Mr Munroe was asked about the penalties regarding bail breaches. He replied: “The point we made is if you breach the terms of the bail, particularly regarding electronic monitoring, the position that the commissioner puts to me which I agree with is you shouldn’t be put back on bail. So there’s a fine now for breaching your bail condition but committing an offence while on bail, it’s a reason to revoke bail. “So if I give you bail on the condition that you wear this monitor so the police can have track of you and you don’t comply, and we don’t know where you are 24 hours a day, we have a place where we know where you are 24 hours a day. And if you can’t comply with the rules for us to know when you are outside, then we can house you where we know where you are 24 hours a day.” The minister later alluded to the
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe yesterday. meeting with the DPP. “We had a productive meeting with the DPP and his officers. The DPP has agreed that Chief Superintendent Roger Thompson, who was a lawyer of 14 years standing who was in the commissioner’s legal office, can marshal these bail revocations in the Supreme Court with lawyers who we have in the commissioner’s office so that there can be a more aggressive process. “For once you are convicted, once you’ve (been) dealt with for bail violations, we can then go to the Supreme Court get your bail revoked. There’s a presumption of innocence, fine, but if you’re not obeying the rules then you forfeit your privilege of being on bail.” Several people on bail have been arrested and charged for not adhering to curfew conditions. In other
Photo: Moise Amisial
instances, it has been reported that the batteries of their electronic monitors have intentionally been allowed to die; there have been cases where some people have removed the devices from their bodies. In September, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander said 38 people had been charged with breaching bail conditions. Several more have been charged since then. In response to the criticism from Mr Munroe last week, Garvin Gaskin said he and his team at the DPP’s office will continue to “press for the due advancement of the criminal justice system”. He added that he had only recently returned in September from seven months’ vacation leave, but was looking forward to “appropriately addressing” any “deficiencies” in the legal and law enforcement systems.
PAGE 8, Tuesday, November 8, 2022
THE TRIBUNE
HONOREES of the Kingdom Builders five week conference.
MINISTER HONOURED BY KINGDOM BUILDERS MINISTER of State for Social Services and Urban Development Lisa Rahming was honoured by Kingdom Builders of Greater Bethel Cathedral this week for her work in social development and community outreach. Bishop Christopher N Minnis presented Ms Rahming with an award, noting that many are able to attest to her “non prejudicial and liberal assistance” to residents of The Bahamas, and her “integrity in administering help to the hopeless, the less fortunate and those simply in need,treating everyone with dignity”. He said: “She is to be
lauded for the magnitude of notable things she is consistently doing to assist many in need and her willingness to partner with others to do so.” He added: “She always seeks to do what she can, understanding that all of her help comes from the Lord. This connection explains the great brilliance in her life, her career and her service. As a woman of substance, she has a great impact.” Ms Rahming was one of several honorees highlighted as part of a fiveweek Kingdom Builders conference. A ceremony was held on Sunday, October 30.
BISHOP Christopher N Minnis, left, with Marathon MP and Cabinet Minister Lisa T Rahming at a service in which she was honored. A church attendant is also pictured.
FAIR OPENS UP OPPORTUNITIES BOOTHS during the Public Service Week Career Day Fair at Centre Court, Marathon Mall, on Wednesday last week, seeking to boost public awareness of the role of various government departments, and to present career opportunities. State Minister for the Public Service Pia Glover-Rolle addressed the opening of the career fair on Tuesday morning and stated how the government is improving the working environment for public servants. The special week opened with a Service of Thanksgiving at Mt Tabor Church on Sunday morning, October 30. Photos: Kristaan Ingraham/BIS
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 8, 2022, PAGE 9
‘Celebrating Oxi Day with Greece’ I
RECEIVED an olive branch the other day. It was during one of the most lovely culinary experiences I have ever had. Every dish was crafted with excellence. All of the love and passion for the story behind the food, came out in dish after dish. It told the story of the people of Greece... their respect for the land, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their love and care for the family. This masterpiece was crafted by Events by Alexandra. On the day I received the box, it was a special occasion. I could have been anywhere celebrating the day. But once I received the time that the box would arrive, I decided to stay at home, to make sure that I was in place for its arrival. The smartly-dressed delivery driver arrived on time with the box. We cracked open the Events by Alexandra seal, and found a beautiful olive branch, a Greek flag, several documents with rich historical information, and a menu inside. It was a pleasant introduction into a wealthy cultural experience through food. We removed the beautiful white cloth with crosses and a silky, navy blue cloth to reveal a buffet of traditional Greek food. The theme: “Celebrating Oxi Day with Greece”. It was the 104th dinner in the “Variety is the Spice of Life” series. Dinner included leg of lamb that was roasted to perfection, served with Tzatziki sauce; a hearty piece of Grouper fish, grilled with Ladiolemono and a parsley-lemon-onion-olive oil sauce; and baked shrimp with feta cheese and a festively-seasoned rice. There was Baked Pistachio - layers of cinnamon-flavoured Greek meat sauce, macaroni, mizithra cheese - topped with a crema. This was a family hit because it reminds you of a good lasagne. Stuffed grape vine leaves, potato pie, and chicken soup with orzo pasta and lemon were also delightful residents on an unforgettable menu. There was a Greek Village salad with the freshest ingredients, including tomatoes, cucumbers and Kalamata olives, perfumed with threbe from Kalymnos. Everything was delivered still warm, as if they had not too long been dished up from a Greek Grandmother’s kitchen. Grilled pita bread and warm Tsoureki celebratory bread made wonderful accompaniments to the meal. It was topped off with the best Baklava I have ever had - made with crunch phyllo, walnuts, cinnamon, honey, sugar, cloves, orange and lemon - all in favour of Oxi Day. Oxi Day is a day that will be forever remembered in the history of Greece. At 3am on October 28, 1940, in the early days of World War II, an ultimatum was presented to the Greek Government. The Fascist Italian dictator Benito Mussolini was demanding that Greece immediately allow Axis forces to enter Greek territory and occupy key locations, or face war. At this time, all of Europe was already under Axis occupation. Greek Prime Minister Iohannis Metaxas, refused to bow. Italian Ambassador, Emmanuel Grazzi handed him the fateful
ABOVE: A Greek flag and an olive branch greeted Events by Alexandra patrons on Oxi Day. BELOW: Traditional Greek menu items prepared by Events by Alexandra.
ALEXANDRA Mailis-Lynch.
letter. After reading the letter, Prime Minister Metaxas responded, “Well, this means war!” Grazzi described the legendary scene in his memoirs: “I gave him the letter and watched the emotion in his hands and in his eyes. With a firm voice and looking me directly in the eye, Metaxas said, ‘This means war!’ I replied that it could be avoided but he again said, ‘No’. I added that if [the Greek] General Papagos... Metaxas immediately interrupted me and said, ‘OXI - NO!’ I then gave a deep bow, leaving with an even deeper respect for this elder who preferred to be sacrificed than enslaved.” Greeks have everything to be proud of when it comes to Oxi Day. Twoand-a-half hours after Prime Minister Metaxas made his defiant decree, the larger, more modernized and better equipped Italian Army crossed over the Greek border, and plunged the country into World War II. They fought for 219 days driving the Italian army out of Greece and straight back past the borders of the southern third of Albania. The battle embarrassed and enraged Mussolini. He had to acknowledge that his grandiose vision to show Hitler how Italy could easily conquer Greece was a complete failure. He was forced to ask for German assistance before the Greeks could do any more damage or advance further. Hitler, furious that Mussolini had attempted to invade Greece against his orders, now had to rescue the defeated Italians. Greece lost 580,000 best-ofthe-best of its pre-war population, and 100,000 were wounded - but they were victorious. The three months of fighting were said to be pivotal in changing the trajectory of World War II. Joseph Stalin said he would not live long enough to thank the Greeks, “whose resistance decided World War II.” Winston Churchill said “until now, we used to say that the
Greeks fight like heroes; now we shall say, the heroes fight like Greeks”. Hitler said that “only the Greeks, of all the adversaries who confronted us, fought with bold courage and highest disregard of death”. For Alexandra MailisLynch, founder of Events by Alexandra, this Oxi Day meal was personal, as it told the story of her rich, Greek heritage. “This box is truly not about the food for me,” Alexandra said. “This is traditional Greek comfort food that you have eaten over and over. This is about a pride for the Philotimo that drives all Greeks - from Greece and from the Diaspora. That sense of duty and love of honour, hospitality, dignity, pride, ethos and faith.” She speaks of the bravery of the clergy of the Greek Orthodox Church in the face of the Italian invasion. She shared the story of the women of Crete, who continued to fight bravely after all their men were either still fighting or already killed. One thousand women from Crete were killed by the Nazis, and 500 women were deported to Germany for taking part in the defense of their island. “Today, we are inspired by our forebears as we celebrate their courage and honour their memory,” Alexandra said. “They said ‘No!’ to those who advanced power and control at any cost. They stood firm against an ideology and its forces that would only separate them from their freedom, their faith, their rights, and their way of life.” Alexandra is also an advocate for women here in The Bahamas, her home. As a part of Women United, she speaks out and takes action for the rights and protection of women and girls. She is the immediate past president of the Board of the Ranfurly Home for Children. For more information, email alexandra@ eventsbyalexandra.com, or Whatsapp 557-3557.
PAGE 10, Tuesday, November 8, 2022
THE TRIBUNE
PRESIDENT Joe Biden poses for photos with Maryland Democratic gubernatorial candidate Wes Moore during a campaign rally in Bowie, Md, yesterday.
Photo: Susan Walsh/AP
Parties make final pitches as election season wraps COATESVILLE, Pennsylvania Associated Press COAST to coast, candidates and big-name backers made final appeals to voters Monday in the last hours of a fraught midterm election season, with Republicans excited about the prospect of winning back Congress and President Joe Biden insisting his party would “surprise the living devil out of a lot of people”. Democrats contend Republican victories could profoundly and adversely reshape the country, eliminating abortion rights nationwide and unleashing broad threats to the very future of American democracy. Republicans say the public is tired of Biden policies amid high inflation and concerns about crime. “We know in our bones that our democracy is at risk,” Biden said during an evening rally in Maryland, where Democrats have one of their best opportunities to reclaim a
Republican-held governor’s seat. “I want you know, we’ll meet this moment.” Arriving back at the White House a short time later, Biden was franker, saying: “I think we’ll win the Senate. I think the House is tougher.” Asked what the reality of governing will be like, he responded, “More difficult.” The Maryland event followed Biden’s latecampaign strategy of sticking largely to his party’s strongholds rather than stumping in more competitive territory, where control of Congress may ultimately be decided. Biden won Maryland with more than 65% of the vote in 2020 and appeared with Wes Moore, the 44-year-old Rhodes Scholar who could become the state’s first Black governor. The president said at an earlier virtual event, “Imagine what we can do in a second term if we maintain control.” Most political prognosticators don’t think the
Democrats will — and predict that Tuesday’s results will have a major impact on the next two years of Biden’s presidency, shaping policy on everything from government spending to military support for Ukraine. In the first national election since the violent Jan 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, the Democrats have tried to focus key races on fundamental questions about the nation’s political values. The man at the centre of most Jan 6 debate, former President Donald Trump, was in Ohio for his final rally of the 2022 campaign — and already thinking about his own future in 2024. He had teased that he might formally launch a third presidential run at Monday night’s rally with Senate candidate JD Vance — which Trump concluded by promising a “big announcement” next week at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. Trump’s backing of Vance in Ohio this year
was crucial in helping the author and venture capitalist — and onetime Trump critic — secure the GOP’s nomination for a Senate seat. He’s now facing Democrat Tim Ryan. “When I think about tomorrow, it is to ensure the American dream survives into the next generation,” Vance declared to thousands of cheering supporters, some sporting Trump 2024 hats and T-shirts, at Dayton International Airport. While the GOP likes its chances of flipping the House, control of the Senate could come down to a handful of crucial races. Those include Georgia, Arizona and Pennsylvania, where Democratic Lt Gov John Fetterman was locked in a close race against Republican celebrity surgeon Mehmet Oz. “This is one of the most important races in America,” Fetterman told a crowd of about 100 Monday outside a union hall near a steel plate mill in
Coatesville, about 40 miles west of Philadelphia. “Dr. Oz has spent over $27m of his own money. But this seat isn’t for sale.” At a nighttime rally at a suburban Philadelphia estate, former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley introduced Oz to a crowd of about 1,500. “There’s too many extreme positions in Washington, too much out there pulling us away from where the real answers lie,” Oz said. “I will bring balance to Washington. But John Fetterman? He’ll bring more extreme.” Fetterman’s campaign noted that, in the final days, Oz has campaigned with Trump, at a wedding venue that refuses same-sex marriages and at a fitness center whose owner organised buses for Trump’s Jan 6, 2021, rally in Washington. In Georgia, Democratic Sen Raphael Warnock, who was in a nail-bitter with Republican Herschel Walker, tried to cast himself as pragmatic — capable of succeeding in Washington even if the GOP has more power. Warnock promised Monday to “do whatever I need to do and work with whomever I need to work with in order to get good things done”. Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly also tried to strike a moderate tone. He praised the state’s late Republican senator, John McCain, while noting that he didn’t ask Biden to campaign with him but would “welcome the president to come here at any point”.
Kelly’s Republican rival, Blake Masters, called the senator “just a rubber stamp vote for Joe Biden’s failed agenda”. “You look at what Biden and Mark Kelly are doing. It’s like, are they that incompetent, or are they trying to destroy the country?” Masters said. “I think it’s both.” Elon Musk, whose purchase of Twitter has roiled the social media world, used that platform Monday to endorse the GOP, writing, “I recommend voting for a Republican Congress, given that the Presidency is Democratic.” That came too late for more than 44 million Americans who had already cast early ballots. Biden, meanwhile, wasn’t exclusively positive on the final day of campaigning. He’s spent weeks warning of extremism and also said Monday, “We’re up against some of the darkest forces we’ve ever seen in our history.” “These MAGA Republicans are a different breed of cat,” he said, referring to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign slogan. Biden also raised concerns about voter intimidation during the midterms, even suggesting that some people were outside voting stations with automatic rifles. The president was expected to watch Tuesday night’s returns from the White House. Trump has long falsely claimed he lost the 2020 election only because Democrats cheated.
PUTIN-LINKED BUSINESSMAN ADMITS US ELECTION MEDDLING KREMLIN-connected entrepreneur Yevgeny Prigozhin admitted yesterday he had interfered in US elections and would continue to do so — confirming for the first time the accusations that he has rejected for years. “Gentlemen, we have interfered, are interfering and will interfere. Carefully, precisely, surgically and in our own way, as we know how to do,” Prigozhin boasted in remarks posted on social media. The statement, from the press service of his catering company that earned him the nickname “Putin’s chef”, came on the eve of the US midterm elections. It was the second major admission in recent months by the 61-year-old businessman, who has ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Prigozhin has previously sought to keep his activities under the radar and now appears increasingly interested in gaining political clout — although his goal in doing so was not
immediately clear. White House press secretary Karine JeanPierre said Monday that Prigozhin’s comments “do not tell us anything new or surprising”. “It’s well known and well documented in the public domain that entities associated with Yevgeny Prigozhin have sought to influence elections around the world, including the United States. The US has worked to expose and counter Russia’s malign influence efforts as we discover them,” she said, noting that Yevgeny has been sanctioned by the United States, the UK and the European Union. “Part of Russia’s efforts includes promoting narratives aimed at undermining democracy and sowing division and discord. It’s not surprising that Russia would be highlighting their attempted efforts and fabricating a story about their successes on the eve of an election,” she added.
SPORTS PAGE 11
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2022
Higgs-Clarke crowned ‘Mother of CARIFTA’ By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
I
t wasn’t a birthday or anniversary celebration, but it was the “surprise” of her life when members of the Local Organising Committee showed up at the Ministry of Social Services and Community Affairs to crown former sprinter Maryann Higgs-Clarke as the Honorary “Mother” of 2023 CARIFTA Games. Higgs-Clarke, who was stunned that she was remembered, was the first of six Bahamian athletes to earn the prestigious Austin Sealy Award as the most outstanding athlete of the games. She was the second athlete to achieve the feat in 1978 when the Bahamas hosted the games for the second time. “Golden Girl” Pauline Davis-Thompson, the third Bahamian Austin Sealy Award winner in 1984 behind Lavern Eve (1982 and 1983), placed the crown on HiggsClarke’s head and the sash across her chest in front of a cheering group of coworkers at the Ministry of Social Services and Community Affairs. Fernerin Hanna, the senior director of marketing and sponsorship for the LOC, headed by Lynden Maycock, presented Higgs-Clarke with a bouquet of flowers as she was serenaded by Amanda Forbes, a member of the LOC marketing team. An emotional, but softspoken Higgs-Clarke, trying to hold back the tears, said she was extremely pleased to see that she was not forgotten for her accomplishment for Team Bahamas at the games that was won by Jamaica. “I was told that the Minister (Obie Wilchcombe) wanted to see me, but I was surprised and ecstatic when I came out here and saw all of this,” said HiggsClarke, as she was greeted chants of “surprise” when she went into the foyer of
MARYANN Higgs-Clarke is flanked by Fernerin Hanna, Pauline Davis-Thompson, Minister Obie Wilcombe, Drumeco Archer and Lynden Maycock. Photo: LOC Photographer the office in the Aventura on her back and she ran “I know it hasn’t been she stated. “Practice, Plaza on Thompson with an injured foot and easy and what you did practice, practice. EveryBoulevard. she brought that victory inspired the future genera- body can’t be a champion, “Right now, I’m speech- home for us and made us tion of young Bahamian but just go out there and less, but I’m also happy that believe that yes we can. athletes and I’m one of compete to the best of I am remembered. After “She inspired so many, them,” Davis-Thompson your ability and you will all these years, I appreci- quietly doing her work. said. “You’re the mother be alright. Just make the ate what is being done for I’m so happy that you all of my daughter and so I Bahamas proud again.” Higgs-Clarke, born me because at the time, see the greatness. This is want to congratulate you December 24, 1962, it was as big accomplish- greatness in all its humility. on that. ment for the Bahamas. So And to recognise her, you “But I just want to thank attended St Augustine’s I want to thank everyone made us all so proud. We you personally for getting College from 1974-1980 for restoring this love and love you so much for all it started for all of us. I’m and was considered one of the top sprinters, not only appreciation on me.” that you have done for this so proud of you.” In recalling her his- country.” Last week, the Oaktree in the Bahamas and the toric performance, Bahamas Association Medical Center was intro- Caribbean region. She participated in the Higgs-Clarke said when of Athletic Associations’ duced as the title partner she got the baton in the president Drumeco Archer to the tune of $300,000. CARIFTA Games, estabwomen’s 4 x 400m relay said as a little boy, he too They didn’t provide any lished in 1972, from 1974 to on the anchor leg, she was remembers Higgs-Clarke’s cheque, but joined in the 1981, winning her share of trailing the Barbadian ath- performance, which chorus in congratulat- gold and silver medals. While she didn’t go to lete by about 40 metres, he said set the tone for ing Higgs-Clarke on her the pinnacle of the sport, but she reeled her in and women in athletics in the achievement. secured the silver for the Bahamas. “I also viewed your race, one of her two daughters, Bahamas behind Jamaica. “I’m just proud to be so I say to you, because of Lanece Clarke, followed “I just went out there a part of this moment you, we all can carry on,” in her footsteps, having and did what I had to do,” because it’s a celebration said Elesca Smith, the competed in the sprints Higgs-Clarke said. of gender equality, a cel- Chief Operating Officer, representing the BahaWilchcombe noted that ebration of women in our who was accompanied by mas in just about every he remembers the games sport and so today, we can some members of their international meet from of 1978 when he was an say, you are certainly the staff at the Oaktree. “So CARIFTA to Olympics. The 50th edition of announcer for the Broad- Mother of Track and field we celebrate with you CARIFTA is scheduled casting Corporation of (in CARIFTA).” today.” the Bahamas (ZNS), Davis-Thompson, who As Team Bahamas pre- for April 7-10, 2023 at during the games. “I’m represented Minister of pares for the hosting of the the Thomas A Robinson particularly honoured,” Youth, Sports and Culture 50th edition of the games National Stadium. The Wilchcombe said. Mario Bowleg, said they and the ninth time in the Legends Walk and offi“We had all doubts that are proud of Higgs-Clarke, Bahamas, Higgs-Clarke cial launch of the games is we were going to lose and who got it all started for had some words of advice scheduled for Thursday, Maryann put the Bahamas women in track and field. for them. “Stay focused,” December 1, 2022.
World Cup, Page 15
BAISS SOFTBALL SERIES POSTPONED INCLEMENT weather brought an abrupt end to the opening day of the BAISS Softball Championships series yesterday at the Freedom Farm Baseball Complex. When the rain came down forcing umpires to make the call to postpone, both Queen’s College Comets junior teams were in control of their respective games. The Comets’ junior boys held a 3-0 lead over the Temple Christian Suns in the top of the second inning while the junior girls were dominant with a 10-0 lead over the St Augustine’s Big Red Machine in the top of the first inning. Tropical storm Nicole is expected to affect The Bahamas this week, therefore, the series will continue next Tuesday, November 15, from their suspended point in game one. Game twos will follow on November 16 and game threes, if necessary, will be determined at a later date.
FINA WORLD CUP TOUR: SWIMMER NIGEL FORBES MAKES SPLASH BAHAMIAN Nigel Forbes marked a major move in open competition at the just concluded Indianapolis leg of the FINA World Cup Tour. Forbes competed in the 25-metre pool in the 200metre butterfly. He had splits of 57.14 and 1:04.24 to record a time of 2:01.38. That puts him as one of the fastest 16-17 swimmers ever in this race from the CARIFTA and CCCAN region. Only Olympian Jarod Aaoyo of Puerto Rico, who did 1:58.22, Mathias Marsau of Guadeloupe (1:58.62) and Cayman Island’s Olympian Shaune Fraser (1:59.04) have swum faster. This year in the long course pool, Forbes has captured the 15-17 CARIFTA title in 2:07.03, well off his national record of 2:03.27. However, his time of 2:06.75 was the fastest CARIFTA region swimmer at the World Junior Championships in Peru.
Champions League Garcia beats Sabalenka last-16: PSG-Bayern, in straight sets for WTA Finals title Madrid-Liverpool By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Sports Writer
By GRAHAM DUNBAR AP Sports Writer NYON, Switzerland (AP) — Real Madrid will play Liverpool, again. Bayern Munich will play Paris Saint-Germain, again. Two rematches of recent Champions League finals were set up Monday by the draw for the round of 16 as some of Europe’s top heavyweights were paired together. Madrid beat Liverpool in the 2018 and 2022 finals, to extend its competition record to 14 titles, and Bayern beat PSG in 2020 to become European champion for the sixth time. The trend even continued one hour later at
THE MATCH fixtures are shown on an electronic panel next to the Champions League trophy during the UEFA Champions League 2022/23 round of 16 draw, at the UEFA Headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, yesterday. (Laurent Gillieron/Keystone via AP) UEFA headquarters with League finals, in the the first pairing made in knockout playoffs of the the Europa League draw. second-tier competition in Barcelona will face February. For defending Manchester United, the champion Madrid, having team it beat in the 2009 and 2011 Champions SEE PAGE 15
FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Caroline Garcia took a tight first set and went on to a 7-6(4), 6-4 victory over Aryna Sabalenka to win the championship of the WTA Finals last night. The sixth-ranked Garcia became the second Frenchwoman to win the season-ending event after Amelie Mauresmo in 2005, also the last time the WTA Finals were held in the U.S. There was only one break point in a meeting of the tour (Garcia) and tournament (Sabalenka) leaders in aces coming into the match. Garcia converted that break point in the first game of the second set while handing No. 7 Sabalenka just her third loss in 12 career hard-court finals on
the temporary indoor court at Dickies Arena. The WTA Finals were moved to Texas from China over concerns about the safety of Peng Shuai, a Grand Slam doubles champion who accused a former government official there of sexual assault. Coronavirus restrictions also played a part in the decision. Sabalenka, trying to become the first player from Belarus to win the WTA Finals, reached the title match by beating topranked Iga Swiatek. That semifinal victory ended a 15-match winning streak against top-10 opponents that was the longest on tour in 35 years. Garcia matched Sabalenka’s power from the start in her fourth victory of the season, second only to Swiatek’s eight. The
29-year-old is the oldest WTA Finals winner since Serena Williams at 33 in 2014. Garcia won six consecutive points in the tiebreaker, capped by her 10th ace of the first set for a 6-2 lead. Sabalenka’s third double fault ended the set. Garcia opened the second set with two break points, but only needed one. Her forehand winner on Sabalenka’s serve put her ahead for good.Even in the deciding game, Garcia’s service winner gave her a second match point, and Sabalenka sent a forehand long. Veronika Kudermetova and Elise Mertens beat defending champions Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 4-6, 11-9 to win the doubles title.
PAGE 12, Tuesday, November 8, 2022
THE TRIBUNE
UB Mingoes cut down The Mambas 82-65 IF the University of The Bahamas Mingoes season opener is any indication of how strong the team is going to be this season, then the rest of the league should watch out. The Mingoes cut down The Mambas 82-65 in the first game of The New Providence Basketball Association season Friday night at The Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium. The game served as The Mingoes homecoming game as well. Newcomer Dave Lindsay scored 24 points to go along with 13 rebounds to lead the Mingoes in the win. He led all players in both categories. Tim Grant contributed 11 points and six boards to assist in the win. Erquantae Edgecombe and Justin Burrows dumped in 10 points each as well. Theodore Grant led all guards with 7 assists and 8 rebounds as well. Mingoes head coach Bacchus Rolle said he was not only excited with the win but the level of play from the team. “The guys came out and showed they could play under pressure and that was great,” he said. “For some of these guys this is the first time they have really played organised ball and they really impressed tonight.” The Mingoes led by as much as 20 during the
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas centre Justin Burrows (black 15) drives to the basket.
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas guard Erquantae Edgecombe (2) drives against a Mambas player in New Providence Basketball Association action on Friday at The Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium. Edgecombe had 10 points in the win. Photos: UB ATHLETICS matchup and was able to capitalise on errors by picking up 17 points off turnovers. Also, The Mingoes dominated the paint with 54 point, compared to only 38 for The Mambas. For The Mambas, Leon Bain led the way with 13 points and five rebounds. Rolle added he was impressed with the team’s
patience on the court. “We didn’t get it going right away but we stuck with it and the guys kept their poise and they were able to execute one or two things we were working on. Our guard play was very significant today.” Rolle singled out forward Justin Burrows in his first game as a Mingoe. “We saw him come in as a big and he
really surprised us,” he said. “We didn’t know he could do all that.” Burrows shot 71 percent (5-7) from the field to pick up his 10 points for The Mingoes. The Mingoes are expected to head to South Florida next weekend for a two-game tour against Atlantis University in Miami.
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas guard Ricardo Taylor Jr (21) defends the ball against Mambas forward Randon Swaby.
LEDECKY POSTS WORLD RECORD IN 800 FREE AT WORLD CUP MEET INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Katie Ledecky swam to a world record of 7 minutes, 57.42 seconds in the 800meter freestyle in a World Cup meet Saturday night. The previous record of 7:59.34 by Spain’s Mireia Belmonte had stood since 2013. Indianapolis is one of three stops on the World Cup circuit organised by FINA, the world governing body for aquatic sports. The previous two were at Berlin and Toronto. The 25-year-old Ledecky won by nearly 10 seconds over silver medallist Summer McIntosh, a 16-year-old Canadian. The American earned a $10,000 bonus. The world record was the 17th by Ledecky since 2013, her second in short course (25-metre pool) and second set in Indianapolis. She set the world record in long course (50-metre pool) in the 1,500 freestyle with a time of 15:20.48 in this natatorium on May 16, 2018. She lowered the world record in the short course 1,500 freestyle to 15:08.24 last week in Toronto. Her time at 800 metres, 8:00.58, nearly broke Belmonte’s world record for that distance. “I think I was putting a lot of pressure on myself after last week,” Ledecky said. “Having the fans here cheering me on meant a lot.” Ledecky has seven Olympic gold medals and 19 world championship golds, both the most by a female swimmer.
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FORMER PRO BOXERS BOWE AND PRATT CELEBRATE BIRTHDAYS
Ministry and National Sports Authority join hands for 2nd annual Fitness Fest workout THE Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture in partnership with the National Sports Authority is celebrating the second annual Fitness Fest workout programme. This event takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium and gives persons the opportunity to begin or continue their quest for physical fitness. Participants of the event are trained by renown fitness trainer Comby Smith, whose style of Soca and Junkanoo aerobics have made him one of the most popular trainers in the Bahamas. The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture wisely saw fit to ensure that all participants were able to be apart of this fitness movement at no cost to themselves. Free access to training three times a week for the entire month of November, is just the catalyst that many people needed to
PARTICIPANTS enjoy the second annual Fitness Fest workout programme. commence much needed fitness lifestyles. The event, which is in its second week of operation, is already a hit capturing up to 400 participants per night. “The idea of a national training session with upwards of 500 participants has been a lifetime goal,” Smith said.
“To see this dream actually come true is a blessing that I am most grateful for.” He thanked the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and the National Sports Authority for the opportunity. And he looks forward to the further growth of Fitness Fest.
Persons are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity as our country works toward decreasing non communicable diseases associated with poor healthy lifestyles. For further information, please visit the National Sports Authority Facebook page and welcome to the movement.
FORMER professional boxers David ‘Sugar’ Bowe and Quincy ‘ThrillA-Minute’ Pratt shared their birthdays together on Thursday before Pratt spent some time in church with his former rival Ray Minus Jr on Sunday. Pratt, accompanied by “Marvelous’ Marvin Smith, attended a birthday party for Bowe at his Sugar Kid Bowe business on Soldier Road. “It was a great celebrations,” Pratt said. “It was well attended by his family and patrons of his stores. It’s just so sad that the boxing fraternity didn’t come out and show their support for this man who did so much for boxing, both amateur and professionally.” Pratt, who celebrated his 52nd birthday, said he just wanted to give Bowe his flowers as he turned 89. He noted that it’s a birthday treat that they both have enjoyed for the past few years and he hopes to continue as long as they have life. On Sunday, Pratt accompanied Ray Minus Jr at the church service at Mt Tabor for persons who will be inducted into the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s National Hall of Fame this month. Minus Jr, the former Bahamas, British Commonwealth bantamweight and lightweight champion, is one of the inductees. “It was my first time at Mt Tabor Church, but I can say, Bishop Neil Ellis didn’t hold anything back in saying that athletes should get what they are deserving of,” Pratt said. “He’s from Bimini and talked about Yama Bahama and Gomeo Brennen, who never got the recognition they deserved. “He’s quite right. But what’s so sad is that the Minister of Sports (Mario Bowleg) didn’t show up and only about five of the athletes being inducted showed up.” Although they were former sparring partners turned into archrivals, who had three epic pro fights, all won by Minus Jr, Pratt said he continues to support his idol because he needs all of the support that he could in the condition that he’s in right now.
PAGE 14, Tuesday, November 8, 2022
THE TRIBUNE
THOMAS AND SAGUAROS CLINCH SPOT IN FINALS By RENALDO DORSETT Tribune Sports Reporter rdorsett@tribunemedia.net AS the Arizona Fall League heads into the final week of its regular season, Tahnaj Thomas and his Surprise Saguaros have clinched a spot in the league’s championship. The Saguaros have a league leading record of 17-10, ahead of second place Peoria Javelinas and Scottsdale Scorpions, both tied at 13-13. BJ Murray and his Mesa Solar Sox are tied with the Glendale Desert Dogs at 12-13 and the Salt River Rafters close out the standings at 11-16. The Sagueros’ opponent for the championship, hosted November 12 at Scottsdale Stadium, will be decided over the course of the coming week. In his last relief appearance on the mound, Thomas allowed a run on a hit, two walks, and two strikeouts in an inning of work. In 8.1 AFL innings pitched, Thomas continues to rally from a slow start to the league with a 10.80 ERA to go with 10 strikeouts He is one of several Pirates prospects who are eligible for the Rule 5 Draft unless they are protected and named to the 40-man roster. Unprotected players are eligible to be taken by the other 29 teams when the draft takes place at the Winter Meetings on December 7. The Rule 5 draft aims to prevent teams from stockpiling too many young players on their
minor league affiliate teams when other teams would be willing to have them play in the majors. The deadline to add players to a team’s 40-man roster to be protected from the Rule 5 Draft is November 15. In his time with the Solar Sox, Murray has hit .250 with a home run, an .821 OPS and scored two runs in six games. In his third appearance, he hit a two-run home-run to help lead his team to a 9-7 win over the Desert Dogs. He told Marquee Sports Network that his goal was to learn as much as possible from his peers around the minor leagues in his time in Arizona. “Just trying to pick up anything from these guys,” Murray said. “There’s a lot of good players here. Just having conversations, talking with everyone, seeing what everyone likes, what they don’t like, stuff like that. I’m trying to add anything to my game that I can.” The 22-year-old infielder has made a successful transition to High-A baseball this season and with his progression within the Cubs organisation. Murray and his South Bend Cubs claimed the Midwest League Championship series and he hit .545 for the series. In 56 games with South Bend, Murray hit .273, slugging .406, with a .794 OPS, with 51 hits, 22 runs scored, eight doubles, five home runs, 28 RBI and eight stolen bases.
PARTICIPANTS enjoy the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association Play Tennis Course Certification Course for coaches.
BLTA PARTNERS WITH ITF TO TRAIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF COACHES THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association Play Tennis Course Certification Course for coaches was a huge success! The course tutor was the International Tennis Federation (ITF) developmental officer for the Caribbean, John Goede. The course saw a very good representation from the primary school district and the various islands: Abaco, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama and New Providence. The thirteen participants who benefitted from the course included: Shannon Francis, Mateo Smith, Philip Major Jr., Roy Rivera, Vernon Russell, Danny Rigby, Shirlene Moss,
Mechelle Walker, Christine Sinclair, Leonardo Culmer, Brad Wood, Julio Valdez and Leonardo Braynen. “Teaching of the base of tennis, the instruction, is very important,” Goede said. “The broader the base the better, the better the foundation, the better the fundamentals that are taught to the individuals, and the better they will be able to sustain and stay in the game for long periods of time.” Goede also stated that “it is important to create these opportunities so that coaches learn the right way to teach beginners to play the game.” BLTA president Perry Newton stated that
“these coaching certification courses help with the national development of our coaches and athletes. “We hope to continue to provide these sessions to persons who are interested in helping with the developmental goals of the Association in growing tennis. As we develop coaches the pool of players can expand.” The BLTA thanked Goede, who visited both Abaco and Eleuthera and was greeted warmly by the respective island association presidents Cameel Mcdonald (Abaco Tennis Association) and Hartie Johnson (Eleuthera Tennis Association).
PATRIOTS HEAD INTO BYE WITH CHANCE TO MAKE NOISE IN DIVISION By KYLE HIGHTOWER AP Sports Writer FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Bill Belichick believes he doesn’t truly get a clear picture of the identity or potential of his team until sometime around the Thanksgiving holiday each season. New England isn’t quite to that point as it enters its bye week. But the Patriots coach isn’t short on information about a group that at 5-4 finds itself above .500 for the first time this season heading into the downslope of the schedule. “We certainly know a lot more about our teams after nine regular-season games than we did back in September after three preseason games,” Belichick said. “So, this will give us a good chance here in the next few days to look a little closer and find some areas that we can improve in as we go forward. Hopefully that will help us.” Despite being at the bottom of the AFC East standings, the Patriots are just 1 1/2 games behind first-place Buffalo (6-2). The Patriots still have four division games left to play,
including two against the Bills. New England hasn’t finished last in the division since Belichick’s first season in 2000. The Patriots’ defence has played a big role in them winning four of their last five. But quarterback Mac Jones will have to play better if they hope to make it back to the playoffs. He threw two touchdowns and five interceptions in his first three games before being sidelined three weeks with a high ankle sprain. He has been taking better care of the ball in his three games back, throwing two TDs and two picks. Still, he says his standard is higher in Year Two. “We want to play our best team ball,” Jones said. “Our defence and special teams are playing really well. We’re playing good at spots, but we need to continue to go up here and stop riding the wave, which we will. I think we have really talented players at every position. ... “So we’ll look at everything. I know our coaches have been grinding it out, doing a great job, putting
PATRIOTS head coach Bill Belichick on the sideline in the first half of an NFL game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) us in a position to succeed. We’ve got to go out and execute a little better.” WHAT’S WORKING Belichick said in the preseason that the strongest
unit coming out of training camp was the secondary. It has lived up to that billing. Four players — Devin McCourty, Jalen Mills, Jonathan Jones, and Jack Jones
— have two interceptions each. Jonathan Jones also has a pick-6. WHAT NEEDS HELP Execution in the red zone has been a weak point for the Patriots throughout the season. Through nine games, they have scored TDs only 12 of 26 opportunities inside the 20 (46.2%), ranking 29th in the NFL in red zone efficiency. The offensive line has also been wildly inconsistent, logging 25 penalties on the season. The issues have led to shuffling at both tackle and guard, with veteran Isaiah Wynn and rookie Cole Strange being benched for performance reasons. Complicating matters has been the absence of center David Andrews for the past two games as he recovers from a concussion. KEY NUMBER 76.0 vs. 92.5 — Jones’ quarterback rating this year compared to the end of last season. NEXT STEPS New England jumps right back into division play on Nov. 20 when it hosts the Jets, who they beat on the road 22-17 on October 30.
TITANS SIT ATOP AFC SOUTH AGAIN DESPITE STRUGGLES, INJURIES By TERESA M WALKER AP Pro Football Writer NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Tennessee Titans have a stingy defence and two-time NFL rushing champ Derrick Henry on his way toward leading the league for the third time in four seasons. They also have a comfortable lead at the halfway point of the season, looking for a third straight AFC South title. “There’s no room for cushions,” coach Mike Vrabel said Monday. Well, they have one despite snapping a fivegame winning streak with a 20-17 overtime loss in Kansas City on Sunday night. The Titans (5-3) still control their division with Indianapolis (3-5-1) the closest team having just fired its coach Monday. That’s despite serious second-half offensive issues and a quarterback in Ryan Tannehill who has missed two straight games with a sprained right ankle. That’s just part of the injury woes that have hit this franchise hard for a second straight season. Yet the Titans already have swept
TITANS quarterback Malik Willis throws during the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga) Indianapolis and are 3-0 in the division. They’ve already won at Houston (1-6-1) with two left against the Jaguars (3-6), including the regular-season finale in Jacksonville. Tennessee also is 4-2 in the AFC. WHAT’S WORKING The defence. Losing Pro Bowl outside linebacker Harold Landry III just
before the season didn’t help with him coming off a career-best 12-sack performance. They’re the NFL’s stingiest unit on third down, allowing a mere 28.5% conversions and have the second-best run defence, allowing 87.6 yards per game. They’ve allowed more than 22 points only once all season.
WHAT NEEDS HELP The offence. More specifically after halftime where Tennessee has been outscored 96-33, not counting the game-winning field goal in overtime to Kansas City. The Titans are still looking for their first touchdown in the fourth quarter where they’ve been outscored 35-9.
Tennessee has only 51 catches for 658 yards with one touchdown combined from its receivers after trading A.J. Brown to Philadelphia during the April draft. Treylon Burks, drafted with the selection received in that deal, ranks fifth on the Titans with 10 catches for 129 yards. He’s missed four games on injured reserve. KEY NUMBER 9 — The points scored in the fourth quarter, which would be higher if not for a missed field goal in the opener. Two field goals came in the October 23 win against the Colts. At some point, Tennessee will have to score more to reach the postseason for a fourth straight season. NEXT STEPS Take advantage of a home schedule that features five of the final nine at home after five of the first eight, including the overtime loss to the Chiefs, came on the road. It won’t be easy with a pair of Thursday night games, including a trip to Green Bay on November 17 and a visit from Dallas on December 29.
The BLTA thanked Goede for extending a meeting invitation to both coaches and parents in Nassau despite his very busy schedule. During the Play Tennis Course, the coaches had a mix of onthe-court instruction and in-classroom training. “We hope that they will take all that they have learned during the sessions and implement it as they introduce beginners to tennis,” the BLTA said. “There will also be many opportunities for the coaches to participate in the ongoing BLTA developmental programmes as we make tennis more accessible to all.”
DRAKE, HOUSTON LEAD RAVENS PAST SAINTS By BRETT MARTEL AP Sports Writer NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kenyan Drake rushed for 93 yards and two touchdowns, Justin Houston had an interception to go with his third straight multiple-sack game, and the Baltimore Ravens beat the New Orleans Saints 27-13 last night. Lamar Jackson passed for a touchdown and frustrated New Orleans (3-6) with his mobility, rushing for 82 yards and exhibiting an array of jump cuts and spin moves while helping Baltimore (6-3) win its third straight and remain atop the AFC North, one game ahead of Cincinnati. The Saints entered the game with a chance to pull into a three-way tie atop the anemic NFC South with Atlanta and Tampa Bay. Instead, they were outclassed by a Baltimore team missing several offensive starters, including tight end Mark Andrews and running back Gus Edwards. The Ravens converted nine of 15 third downs and had 319 total yards. The Saints were 3 of 11 on third down and finished with 243 yards. Baltimore possessed the ball for 37:47. Andy Dalton passed for 210 yards and New Orleans’ lone touchdown to tight end Juwan Johnson, which came in when the game was virtually out of reach in the fourth quarter. Alvin Kamara was limited to 62 yards from scrimmage, his lowest output in five games. Dalton was sacked four times and his interception came on a pass tipped by Brent Urban. The play set up Drake’s second TD. Baltimore’s defence was stifling on New Orleans’ first four possessions, limiting the Saints to 13 combined plays. Wil Lutz got the Saints on the board with a field goal as time expired in the half — but not before Dalton overthrew open receiver Maquez Callaway in the end zone. Jackson finished 12 of 22 passing for 133 yards without an interception.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 8, 2022, PAGE 15
PSG
BFA: UB Mingoes men lose to United FC 4-1 THE University of The Bahamas Mingoes men’s soccer team put its undefeated season on the line in Bahamas Football Association action Sunday against United FC. This was the third time UB had risked the streak snap and this week it happened. The Mingoes lost to United FC 4-1 and drop to second place overall with 15 overall points. The Western Warriors are in the top spot with 16 points and a 4-0-1 record.
The Mingoes normal productive offensive campaign just was not there on The Roscow R.L. Davies Field Sunday. The first half ended tied at 0-0 but then United came back with a vengeance, scoring in the 49th and 76th minute. In the 80th minute, Mingoes midfield Ronaldo Green was awarded a penalty kick in the box after he was pushed to the ground while advancing the ball. He connected
FROM PAGE 11
UNIVERSITY of The Bahamas Mingoes men’s soccer team in action against United FC. on the penalty to put The Mingoes on the scoreboard at 2-1. United responded with two quick goals in the 83rd and 85th minutes. The Mingoes didn’t have the time to respond and the match ended with the United win 4-1. UB head coach Dion Godet said the team just did not have an offensive focus in the match. “We got into a dog fight and we
were unable to produce the traditional amount of offence required for us to win,” he said. “We know we have some challenges on the defensive side and that got exploited today.” He said the team’s eyes are open after the match and will use the loss for positivity. “We are going to circle the wagons and come back strong,” he said.
“The season is long and I didn’t ever think we would go the season undefeated. “I would honestly hope that this is a wakeup call for the team. We’ve been winning and now we experience the agony of defeat and this gets us going,” he said. The Mingoes are next expected to face off with the Dynamos 7pm Sunday at The Roscow R.L. Davies Field.
MESSI AND RONALDO LOOK SET FOR FINAL SHOT AT WORLD CUP GLORY By JAMES ROBSON AP Soccer Writer THE World Cup stage is set for perhaps one final shootout between the two greatest soccer players of their generation — and to many, the two greatest of all time. Surely, this year’s tournament in Qatar presents Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo with one last chance to win the ultimate trophy. Even by their own remarkable powers of endurance, it is unlikely either will be around for the next tournament in 2026 when Messi will be 39 and Ronaldo 41. Pele and Diego Maradona — perhaps the only two players who can still challenge the supremacy of Messi and Ronaldo in the history books — earned their reputations from their achievements on this stage. Pele won the trophy three times with Brazil, while Maradona led Argentina to the title in 1986 with a performance of such individual brilliance that it left an indelible mark on the tournament. For all their genius, Argentina’s Messi and Portugal’s Ronaldo have yet to emulate the two men they have spent their careers trying to surpass. These are the final stages of their storied careers, which have seen them share 12 Ballon d’Or awards, nine Champions League titles, 18 league titles and plenty of other accolades. But to add the World Cup would be the ultimate at a time when both players are seeing their powers wane. Messi has recently spoken like a man who finally accepts he cannot go on forever. “I’m lucky to be able to be at this World Cup at 35 years old,” the Argentine told DirectTV in October. “After this World Cup, we will see what could happen with my career.” Meanwhile, Ronaldo heads to Qatar with his career in disarray after failing to secure a move away from Manchester United and being dropped by manager Erik ten Hag. Last month, he was dropped from the squad and had to train apart from the first team as punishment for refusing to come on as a substitute against Tottenham. At this point, it’s impossible to judge what condition he might be in mentally or physically at the World Cup. Likewise, it’s impossible to rule out a player
who has repeatedly set new standards even into the twilight of his playing days. He recently scored his 700th career club goal. Of the great rivals, Messi appears to have the edge right now. Even if he may not have replicated his best years at Barcelona since joining Paris Saint-Germain, he is proving more influential in his second season in France, with the goals flowing once again. That both are in a position to compete at the World Cup is a testament to the way they have looked after their bodies. Former England physiotherapist Dave Hancock, who went on to become director of training and performance for the New York Knicks and is now CEO of sports data management app Apollo, believes soccer players have followed the lead set by American athletes. “You see that in a lot of American sports,” Hancock told The Associated Press. “I’ve seen that over the years looking after people like Kevin Durant, and Saquon Barkley, privately. “If you look at Tom Brady, he’s 45. He has his own guy. There is a team around them so they realise the longer they play the more money they are going to earn.” Hancock said Messi and Ronaldo share the same mental traits — even if they are physically different. “They are slightly different players and different, what we call somatotypes, which is their body physique,” he said. “But clearly those guys playing at the highest level for so long have understood what they need to do to sustain it, whether that is working in the gym, watching what they eat, sleep. “With all these guys, if you look at any industry, the best of the best will either keep recreating themselves, but will keep continuing to work at being the best of the best.” Neither Messi nor Ronaldo will be defined by the World Cup even if it continues to elude them. Times have changed and club soccer has largely overtaken the international game in terms of profile and popularity because of the success of the Champions League and the Premier League in particular. Fans around the world have been able to witness the brilliance of Messi and Ronaldo on a twiceweekly basis, which was
PORTUGAL’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his side’s opening goal during the group B match against Spain at the 2018 soccer World Cup in Fisht Stadium in Sochi, Russia, on June 15, 2018. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco) never the case with Pele or Maradona. Their respective feats for Barcelona and Real Madrid, especially, created a rivalry unlike any seen in the sport, with the Ballon d’Or almost becoming a personal duel for more than a decade, while their scoring tallies were driven to ever-increasing heights.
Such have been their achievements at the highest levels of the club game that any argument suggesting they need to prove themselves in international competition have been rendered redundant. Not least because both have ended their barren runs with their national teams with Ronaldo
inspiring Portugal to victory at the 2016 European Championship. And Messi winning the Copa America with Argentina last year. But the World Cup is the final frontier — and perhaps an opportunity for one of these remarkable players to write one glorious final chapter.
a difficult path to the title is nothing new. The Spanish team’s remarkable run last season saw it knock out PSG, Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool to lift the trophy. PSG being paired with Bayern meant another blockbuster draw at this stage for French champion as well. PSG’s quest for a first European title was ended in March by Karim Benzema’s stunning late hat trick in the second leg in Madrid. The tough draw was made possible because PSG finished second behind Benfica in its group after the Portuguese club scored a crucial stoppage-time goal in a 6-1 win last week at Maccabi Haifa. PSG sports director Luis Campos dismissed a suggestion the club was made to pay dearly for last week’s results. After playing out a 2-1 victory at Juventus, PSG players said they had not realised that the group win was at risk from Benfica’s late surge in Israel. Lionel Messi is one PSG player who did not play in the final two years ago. Then with Barcelona, Messi was on the receiving end of Bayern’s 8-2 rout in the single-leg quarterfinals, which was the last time he faced the German champion. Bayern coach Julian Nagelsmann lamented his team “wasn’t really rewarded” for its perfect record of six wins in the group stage. Benfica was rewarded yesterday with a pairing against Club Brugge, the 15th-ranked of the 16 teams in the draw. The lowestrated team, AC Milan, will be at home against Tottenham in the first leg in its return to the Champions League knockout rounds after a nine-year gap. Manchester City was paired with Leipzig, and Chelsea was drawn to face Borussia Dortmund in Premier League vs. Bundesliga clashes. Man City and Leipzig traded home wins last season in the group stage, which started with a 6-3 game in Manchester and ended with a 2-1 victory in Leipzig. Napoli, the Serie A leader and top-scoring team in the group stage with 20 goals, will play Eintracht Frankfurt, and Inter Milan is at home first against Porto. Teams from the same country or who played each other in the group stage could not be paired together in the round of 16. First-leg games will be played between February 14-22. Return games are scheduled for March 7-15.