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VOLUME:117 No.245, NOVEMBER 17TH, 2020
THE PEOPLE’S PAPER: $1
WOMAN: WHEN WOMEN DON’T STAND UP FOR ONE ANOTHER
Monique stakes her claim for S. Andros Former PM’s daughter confirms ambition to secure seat and replace existing 13-year MP By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net MONIQUE Pindling, the daughter of former Prime Minister Sir Lynden Pindling, has publicly confirmed her bid to be the Progressive Liberal Party’s nominee in the South Andros constituency in the 2022 general election, telling The Tribune she wants to help “fulfil the plan that was laid out for Andros so many years ago”. Her efforts face significant headwinds since PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell said in March that party leaders want to renominate its four incumbents,
including current South Andros MP Picewell Forbes. A 13-year veteran of the House of Assembly, Mr Forbes has repeatedly expressed conviction that he retains the support of his constituents. Careful to avoid friction or draw comparisons with Mr Forbes, Ms Pindling, 53, said though seeking her party’s nomination has been “challenging”, she still hopes she will be given a fair shot. “I hope for an opportunity to take my message to the people of the constituency and let them decide,” she told The Tribune.
THE domestic travel visa, which is expected to facilitate the removal of the two-week quarantine requirement for inter-island travel has now been completed, according to Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. Speaking to reporters yesterday, Dr Minnis said he was informed by Tourism Minister Dionisio D’Aguilar that the visa had been finished and will subsequently be rolled out after officials complete its “trial run”.
TAX BREAK FOR GOODS COULD BE EXTENDED
AN ABACO resort manager yesterday warned the government it will “add insult to injury” if it fails to extend Hurricane Dorian tax breaks. Molly McIntosh, the Bluff House Beach Resort and Marina’s general manager, said the government needed to see a six-month to one-year extension of Special Economic Recovery Zone benefits. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
SEE PAGE THREE
THE PRICE OF FEWER ACCIDENTS ON ROADS
“I’ve been assured by the Minister of Tourism that the domestic travel visa is now ready and we’re going to do a trial run on it and what that would mean is once that is ready, individuals can now log on to the travel visa and they must partake in that and attach to the travel visa what you call a risk assessment form which is a questionnaire,” Dr Minnis said when asked for an update on the visa. “They must fill that and complete that every day and they must have the rapid test on the fifth day.” SEE PAGE FOUR
SEE PAGE EIGHT
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
INTER-ISLAND TRAVEL VISA HITS FINAL STAGE By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
FACE-TO-FACE: WOMEN AIM FOR ASSEMBLY ROLES
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
MONIQUE PINDLING, the daughter of former Prime Minister Sir Lynden Pindling, is seeking the Progressive Liberal Party nomination for South Andros in the 2022 election.
BAHAMAS First’s top executive yesterday revealed COVID-19 restrictions have produced a “noticeable” drop in motor vehicle claims despite a “worrying” increase in uninsured driver accidents. Patrick Ward, the insurer’s top underwriter, said despite the overall decline in such payouts there had been a marked uptick in accidents involving drivers who lacked proper coverage. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
SALUTE TO OUR GENUINE HEROES
SEVEN newborns, a shrinking food supply and rising floodwaters at the Rand Memorial Hospital in Grand Bahama during Hurricane Dorian quickly turned Nurse Nicole Morgan into what her colleagues describe as a timely hero. Months later came COVID-19, a battle requiring the same tenacity and will to overcome. For exhibiting bravery and selflessness, both Nurse
NICOLE MORGAN, left, and Sonia Rolle. Morgan and Sonia Rolle, an inner-city humanitarian in New Providence, have been named CIBC
FirstCaribbean Unsung Frontline Heroes. FULL STORY - SEE HEALTH
Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper
YOU THOUGHT IT WAS BAD IN THE WHITE HOUSE...
SEE PAGE NINE
PAGE 2, Tuesday, November 17, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
A new star weapon to tackle COVID-19 HOW to bring tourists safely back to The Bahamas has been taxing the government’s minds for months. For the public it has been a confusing journey, following the mass of stories in the media pointing out latest developments in the hunt for a ‘win all’ vaccine and while the search goes on for that some form of quick and accurate testing. For many the answer appeared to have arrived with the advent of rapid antigen testing – a
seemingly simple procedure which would be administered to visitors as they arrived at airports or marinas, results quickly available compared with the standard PCR tests which can take hours, even days, to produce results. With much fanfare several local companies and the non-profit Living with COVID Coalition last month championed the role they wanted to play in the testing challenge by announcing they had access
to millions of antigen tests to administer not just to tourists but to ordinary Bahamians. It seemed the perfect solution while we wait for a vaccine – that was until Tourism Minister Dionisio suddenly pulled the plug on at-arrival testing saying the science no longer supported the roll out for arriving visitors. Instead they would have to submit to an antigen test on the fifth day of their stay in the country.
It took just a few days for officials to confirm the problem with antigen tests is they aren’t effective with COVID patients who are asymptomatic – a big problem if we’re letting tourists in unhindered and many could be infected, just not showing it. Unquestionably though
the rapid antigen tests do have a role to play, they’re just not as effective as we first thought. Thankfully the speed with which the world is tackling the pandemic in laboratories all over the globe gives us new hope for optimism. Vaccines are due to arrive imminently. There are 52 around the world being developed, some with higher claims of effectiveness than others. Roll out will not be immediate as every nation will want its citizens immunised and demand will outstrip supply. However, there is another weapon which is ready to deploy which changes the game on rapid testing and has been deployed at some of the busiest transit centres in the world – including Heathrow in London, Hong Kong and Singapore and is also being used by the English Premier League. The breakthrough comes from Hong Kong-based genetic testing firm Prenetics which has obtained the global rights to what it says is a rapid coronavirus test comparable with the “gold standard” of PCR testing. Prenetics’ tests, which were developed by researchers from Oxford University return results in 30 minutes with near 100 percent accuracy in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Multiple companies which have released rapid tests detect proteins on the surface of the virus. PCR tests and Prenetics’ tests detect genetic material from the virus and are much more accurate. Prenetics is part of a global network of governments and companies collaborating to reopen borders safely, seeking to ramp up testing in airports to boost travellers’ confidence, kick-starting trade and tourists. Its key partner is the Commons Project, a Switzerland-based non-profit
organisation backed by the Rockefeller Foundation, that is working to bring together governments from Rwanda to Colombia to tackle the coronavirus. The Commons Project is leading the push for use of the digital health passport for travellers to document their COVID-19 test results. With those countries signed up to the Prenetics test and the digital passport ‘bubbles’ will be created allowing passengers to move freely between these nations without any need for quarantine – a massive leap forward for countries like The Bahamas dependent on tourism. The Tribune understands Prenetics’ tests are now being considered by the Minnis government. “We actually believe it’s definitely a gamechanger,” Danny Yeung, chief executive and co-founder of Prenetics told CNBC. “We’re able to process tests without a laboratory … the results are much faster.” PCR tests take a long time to process and are “very expensive” because of laboratory equipment required, but Yeung acknowledged they are ideal. “PCR always is the gold standard.” Still, he said Prenetics’ tests are significantly cheaper are almost as accurate. “In terms of accuracy, it is comparable to PCR standard and also much better than antigen testing.” According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, antigen tests return results in an hour or less but sometimes produce false negatives. That means a person who has COVID-19 may test negative. “The challenge is when you’re travelling or population screening, most of these individuals are asymptomatic,” said Yeung. Whatever happens in the weeks and months ahead the science is going to advance rapidly.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 17, 2020, PAGE 3
Monique stakes her claim for S. Andros from page one
“If the branches and the people want to continue with the incumbent, I will support that. My reason for doing this is for Andros to finally get the attention it so deserves. Ultimately, the decision lies with leadership to make the process fair for everyone. No one, including myself, is entitled to an automatic nomination.” “I would actually like to congratulate Mr Forbes on all he has accomplished during his tenure in Andros,” she added. “However, today we find
ourselves in likely the toughest times in our country’s history. Bahamians need impactful leadership now more than ever before. As a woman who carries the responsibility of raising the next generation of Bahamians, I see and feel the roadblocks our youth face every day. I fully recognise Androsians need new passion, vitality and a plan. While I am a team player who would welcome a partnership for the sake of the constituency, I believe I am the best way forward for Central & South Andros and Mangrove Cay constituency.”
Ms Pindling said South Andros needs urgent upgrades to its roads, radio and cable services, medical facilities, police and fire facilities, garbage disposal and collection capabilities, airport, wireless and digital connections and water and sewage services. “The development of its constituencies has been at a crawl resulting in the deterioration of the island’s infrastructure,” she said. “At the beginning of the year I visited the islands not sure what I was going to find. At the end of the visit, I found that I was inspired, disappointed and
overwhelmed all at the same time. Some residents were energetic and hopeful; others were just hopeless,” she added. Asked what her vision and plans would be for the constituency her father represented for 30 years, she said she wants to spur development that would increase tourism revenue, stimulate agriculture and fisheries production, increase export earnings, produce electrical power and sustain local employment. She said she envisions an “approximately 12 miles bridge from Behring Point, Big Wood Cay, Little
Harbour, Lizbon Creek and Driggs Hill” that connects Central Andros, Mangrove Cay and South Andros. She said establishing “relationships with international educational institutions, universities, research colleges and centres to serve as training centres for Bahamians” would be a priority, adding: “Elevate the Bahamas past its service-oriented resort and playground of the world to being a place of higher levels of education, intellectual, scientific and academic attainment.” “Andros is ideal for solar panel files which would
reduce energy bills and aid in fighting climate change by reducing greenhouse gases and carbon emissions,” she added. “The west side of Andros is the capital of ‘mother nature,’ - vast biodiversity can offer a variety of engaging experiences. (Let’s) supply the island with fresh vegetable and fruits; extend production for the country and export; further extend production to eggs, chickens, mutton and beef.” “My ever-present love for Andros is unwavering,” she said. “It is what drives my desire to properly serve and represent its residents.”
RECREATION GROUNDS OPENED OVER-THE-HILL THE historic Southern Recreation Grounds in the Over-the-Hill Community was officially opened during a brief ceremony yesterday. The park, which was recently remodelled by the Bahamas Striping Group of Companies, features many new improvements ranging from new landscape and play areas, exercise spaces for adults, and a resurfaced basketball court. The Southern Recreation Grounds will also give parkgoers access to free wifi and will be monitored by security wardens 24 hours a day to ensure the safety of all. Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis, who was present at yesterday’s soft opening, noted that the move was a part of the government’s
Over-The-Hill Community Development Partnership Initiative that was launched in May 2018. “As you walk through the Southern Recreation Grounds, we have totally rejuvenated and rebuilt what we call phase one of the project that we are doing here and it is our intention to rebuild the entire over the hill community as this is the community from which I was born,” Dr Minnis said. “…I’m happy that we’re completing phase one and we will move on to phase two – a softball field so the old timers could enjoy the benefits of advanced softball fields. We will build proper dugouts, facilities, etc.” Also speaking about the significance of yesterday’s
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis at the ceremony.
POLICE INVESTIGATE SUICIDE ATTEMPT POLICE are investigating an attempted suicide that happened Sunday. According to reports, shortly after 6pm, authorities were called to a residence at Palm Cay off Yamacraw Hill Road. On arrival, the officers were directed to a bedroom where they found a woman in an “inebriated state”. Police said an empty bottle of medication, along with a note were found near the woman. She was taken to hospital and is listed in stable condition at this time. Police said investigations are continuing. This comes a week
after the Public Hospitals Authority said a woman died after attempting suicide at Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre. While the Public Hospitals Authority did not identify the woman, PHA said she was 52 years old. The patient, according to PHA, tried to kill herself at the rehabilitation centre last Sunday and was subsequently taken to the Princess Margaret Hospital. However, officials said she was pronounced dead at the hospital upon arrival. PHA said investigations are continuing into the matter.
event was Bains and Grants Town MP Travis Robinson, who described the Southern Recreation Park as being a very special place for many area residents. “Today marks the grand opening of the phase one of Southern Recreation Grounds. These grounds have been in the works for some two years now. This has served as a tremendous impact to the community,” he told reporters. “This ground has been utilised by the C R Walker Senior School, the Old Timers Softball association as well as the churches and local members of the community so this is very important. This is the main place where we come to socialise and gather and play in peace and harmony.”
THE REOPENED Southern Recreation Grounds.
Photo: Donovan McIntosh
PAGE 4, Tuesday, November 17, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH GROUPS ON THE INCREASE PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis highlighted the increase in neighbourhood watch groups during an event yesterday at which a campaign associated with the programme was launched. The National Neighbourhood Watch Council (NNWC) was established on April 30, 2018, fulfilling a promise in the Free National Movement’s 2017 manifesto. The council promotes neighbourhood watch and community activities. Since 2018, “the number of neighbourhood watch groups has grown significantly from 11 in 201 to well over 100 in 2020,” Dr Minnis said yesterday as the NNWC launched its “We Are One” campaign at the Edmund Moxey Community Centre.
“This includes new groups on Grand Bahama, Abaco and Eleuthera. Working in partnership with members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the NNWC continues to strength the relationship between the police and the community. Within the council, members focus on personal safety and property protection. They also stay ahead of emerging crime trends and are committed to community engagement, and the promotion of enhanced quality of life and social well-being.” As part of its We Are One campaign, the NNWC will have a national cleanup day, a Thanksgiving Day luncheon, a worship service, a t-shirt day and a national neighbourhood day.
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis at the neighbourhood watch event yesterday.
Photo: Donovan McIntosh
PM urges partygoers to go into quarantine By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has urged those attending a party on Bimini over the weekend to self-quarantine, insisting the event could be a “super spreader” for COVID-19. Dr Minnis said he was very concerned about this issue and again pleaded with Bahamians to comply
with COVID-19 protocols by not attending large gatherings, something he has been stressing for months. His renewed calls for compliance were sparked by his concern about the party at Bimini on Saturday. A video of the event made the rounds on social media on Sunday. In the 13-second clip of the party dozens of people were seen without masks bunched together on a beach as music played in the
background. Police Commissioner Paul Rolle told The Tribune that the authorities have since taken action in the matter by citing the organisers and those attending the large gathering. “I am very concerned about parties generally, especially what occurred in Bimini,” Dr Minnis told reporters yesterday. “When you look at numbers in Bimini, there were 11 cases I think
yesterday or the day before and it’s always a possibility that one who was attending such an event could have been a super spreader. “And therefore, my message to the Bahamian public at this time is all those individuals who attended such event, you must assume that they are potentially infected and I would advise them to go under self-quarantine and I would advise Bahamians if you know of such individuals, avoid them for at least the next 14 days and they should be monitored.” On Sunday, Bimini recorded 11 new confirmed COVID-19 cases –- pushing the island’s total to 74 –- after having had no new infections reported for nearly a week. The new tally, however, comes after health officials on Friday said they were
investigating 15 suspected COVID cases who were linked to a large church convention that occurred on the island earlier this month. Authorities have been fining people $500 for failing to socially distance and it is not uncommon for violators to receive more than one citation for breaking various COVID-19 rules. Asked yesterday if the public could expect tougher penalties for violating COVID-19 rules, Dr Minnis replied: “Well, we would make the laws, etc, but each individual has a responsibility themselves. The police force could only do so much. We have developed a hotline and that hotline has been utilised effectively by individuals like yourselves and other members of society.” “And I would encourage them to continue to use the
hotline because the vaccine is coming out so imagine if we can keep our numbers down and keep ourselves stable. It means that the vaccine would be most effective in us because our numbers would continue to remain down as we become immunised, etc.” He also urged Bahamians to be more responsible and not to jeopardise the future of the country. He continued: “Those who are being irresponsible and taking party and other events – they are jeopardising not only the future of the Bahamas but they’re jeopardising the future jobs of their own neighbours, sisters, etc, at Atlantis and others because if we experience great problems, then they themselves would be compromised… so you must think not of yourself but think of your country and what you are doing.”
INTER-ISLAND TRAVEL VISA HITS FINAL STAGE from page one “That is all a part of the travel visa. Once that is in place – and I’m told that it’s completed – then the quarantine would be removed but it’s essential for them to complete the daily risk assessment. “If that is not done, there’s a penalty or a fine and I think it’s about a $100 fine for each day or one-week imprisonment for each day because we are taking this matter seriously because their irresponsibleness can jeopardise the future of our country.” The two-week mandatory quarantine requirement for domestic travel was initially set to be removed on November 8, while individuals travelling from New Providence to any other Family Island would still be required to take a negative RT-PCR test no older than five days old. But, just two days after this was supposed to be scrapped, Dr Minnis reimposed the 14-day quarantine for all persons travelling from New Providence to the Family Islands. Officials later explained the move was due to the domestic travel visa not being ready, with Mr D’Aguilar telling Tribune Business last week that the domestic travel visa
will “roll-out by Friday at latest.” Last week, Health Minister Renward Wells maintained the visa was still expected to be completed on Friday, but no further details were provided by tourism officials that confirmed the domestic health visa was ready to be rolled out. According to Dr Minnis, the domestic travel requirements – similar to that of the international travel protocols, will require travellers to complete a questionnaire daily as part of a self-assessment process and to also take a rapid antigen test five days after arrival. His comments came after he urged Bahamians to avoid unnecessary travel abroad, where cases are climbing in many countries. Since the country reopened in November, the prime minister said he has received reports of Bahamians not wearing masks while abroad because it is not a requirement there. “We’ve opened up our borders and we look at what happened last time,” Dr Minnis said. “The infections were not related to the guests coming in the infections were related to us going out and therefore, I would advise Bahamians not to travel unless absolutely necessary.” “And one of the reports
were getting back is a lot of Bahamians are visiting neighbours to the north and other flea markets and other stores and they’re not wearing any masks because that is not a requirement there.” He added: “But they should wear masks and still practice social distancing and so even because the numbers have gone up in the northern areas and just how over 4,000 were infected, there’s a possibility of even more to be infected because the numbers are higher and there’s a greater chance of you being in contact with individuals. I would advise Bahamians if you’re travelling first and foremost, you should not travel unless absolutely necessary. If you travel, then wear your mask.” Yesterday, Dr Minnis also addressed the spike of COVID-19 cases on Grand Bahama, where he noted that health officials are still assessing the island to determine what type of transmission is happening on the island. “They are assessing to determine community spread but at this particular time, they have isolated the (cases) but that does not rule out the possibility that those individuals either could have had visitors to their place and subsequently move out but viruses have an incubation period.”
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 17, 2020, PAGE 5
Taskforce to tackle oil dumping By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net A POLICE taskforce led by two senior officers has been assigned to deal with any further illegal oil dumping incidents on Grand Bahama following two recent incidents on the island. State Minister for Grand Bahama Senator Kwasi Thompson commended Assistant Commissioner of Police Ashton Greenslade, and Superintendent of Police Terecita Pinder, who are both leading that task force. In the past three weeks, large quantities of oil were illegally disposed of and dumped in the Barbary Beach area and the South Bahamia area on land identified for the Pineridge Community Garden. During his national
report last week, Mr Thompson took the opportunity to speak about the recent oil dumpings that are taking place on Grand Bahama, where access to potable water is still an issue in some areas. He said: “There have been two incidents found in GB and I will say that for the first one found there have been persons brought before the court for that. We cannot say a whole lot more with respect to the first or second because they are currently under police investigations. “The police have taken this so seriously that they have put together a complete task force to deal with these incidents and any further incidents.” Mr Thompson reported that water potability is still at about 75 to 80 percent in Grand Bahama. He noted that GB Utility Company is
continuing to work on full restoration. “They are continuing to work on the balance of those areas to be fully brought to speed; they still have work to do,” he added. Environmental activist Joseph Darville fears that there could be more illegal dumping sites that threaten the island’s remaining freshwater table. He believes that the government and relevant authorities have dropped the ball in terms of their monitoring when it comes to proper disposal of large quantities of used oil. Mr Darville stressed that there is no proper monitoring in place. When The Tribune asked Senator Thompson about this, he said: “The government passed a new Environmental Protection Act, and it has the most
sweeping powers and monitoring provisions that we have ever seen in the history of the country. “I can also tell you this is an issue that is presently under discussion with the government and the REEF (Revitalization and Expansion of the Economy of Freeport) Team as well. As you are aware, historically, the Grand Bahama Port Authority has had the responsibility for environmental issues in the Freeport area and has also assisted with environmental matters not just in the Freeport area, but throughout the island. “We are presently in discussion with the Ministry of Environment, the Office of the Prime Minister, and the GBPA and REEF Committee on how we can address that very same question with respect to large industrial companies and
ensuring we put in place all the necessary protection,” he said. “But, I would not want to connect the recent oil dumping incidents and any of the industrial companies. That is a police matter, and we trust that the police will continue their investigations, and once completed, whoever is responsible will be brought before the law and the courts.” Speaking on the Equinor oil spill cleanup, Minister Thompson said that the company has done extensive cleanup in the area. When questioned by a reporter that Equinor had only cleaned up 10 percent a year out from Dorian, Mr Thompson disputed that figure. He indicated that Equinor had been engaged in the cleanup for sometime after the storm up until
March when it was suspended as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is under management by the Ministry of Environment, but I would dispute, and most certainly was not aware that only 10 percent of the oil has been cleaned up in that area. “They have done an extensive clean-up in that area, and I also recall the Minister of the Environment who spoke to the destruction in the area and the necessity to have it cleaned up.” “We also want to commend the MOE for passing the new Environment Protection Act because that also strengthens the government’s ability in ensuring that any future cleanup that would have to happen can be done speedily, and we can hold anyone who is responsible accountable,” Mr Thompson said.
HELPING TO KEEP STUDENTS SAFE IN SCHOOL By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
TO ensure a safe school environment for students and teachers, the local government of Pinder’s Point Township made a generous presentation of critical items to the Lewis Yard Primary School, in Hunters. The school, which caters to some 132 students, has resumed face-to-face learning at the campus. Jackie Russell, chairperson of PP Township, said she reached out to the school and asked if they could assist, especially in this time of COVID-19. She said the principal provided them with a list of items. The township presented to Principal Juanita Hanna hand sanitizers, bleach, a lawnmower, and some bright orange traffic cones. Ivan Butler, District Superintendent of Schools on Grand Bahama, Bimini, and the Cays, was also on hand for the presentation. “We all know the watchword in The Bahamas today is social distancing, masks, and sanitizing, and we decided to reach out to the principal to find out what their needs are at this critical time,” said Ms Russell. She noted that the township previously went into the community and assisted
children with school needs, but this year they decided to assist the school and contacted the school principal. “I am pleased that we came through with supplying those items because we want to ensure that the children are in a safe environment that is conducive to learning. And we will continue to partner with the school for whatever they may need at this time,” Ms Russell said. Principal Hanna said the presentation is timely and will help them out tremendously. “We are really excited and pleased that the PPT has blessed the school again with this generous donation. In this COVID-19 era, safety protocols are critical, and the need for sanitization is very critical in the school system. We are really appreciative of this donation of hand sanitizers and bleach,” she said. “We have 132 students here, and we want to make sure the environment is clean and properly sanitized and that we have an adequate supply of hand sanitizers on hand for daily use,” she said. Ms Hanna commended Ms Russell for all the contributions they have made to the school during her tenure as chairperson. “She and I have had a
JACKIE RUSSELL, left, chairperson of the Pinder’s Point Township, presents a box of hand sanitizers, bleach, a new lawnmower and orange cones to Principal Juanita Hanna of Lewis Yard Primary School. wonderful relationship and appreciation to Ms sites, such as basketball district, and also to summer these past three years Russell and her entire team courts, where night lights camps held in the district. because she is always look- for this very generous dona- were installed so young “Our township is unique ing out for students, and tion that will go a long way people can utilise the facility because we had to go out persons throughout the in keeping our school safe and engage in meaningful of this area into Freeport community. She has done and clean,” he said. activity. to get into our township an excellent job within the Ms Russell’s three-year According to Ms Russell, in Williams/Russell Town, community, and I extend tenure as chairperson was they launched a school ini- where we held town meetcongratulations on her extended due to postpone- tiative in September when ings and luncheon for the tenure,” she stated. ment of local government they distributed vouchers elderly and Christmas tree District Superintendent elections in June of this year to students for the purchase lighting,” Ms Russell said. Butler said the donation due to COVID-19 pandemic. of uniforms. In October, the Other initiatives included would benefit the school. She gave an update on what township carried out bulk the erection of a Wall of “We are very thank- the township has done over garbage removal from the Fame in 2019 when they ful and appreciative of the past three years. Elec- communities and held a recognized and honoured the donation from the PP tions have been put off until Christmas party in Decem- some 20 people in the Township to the Lewis Yard sometime next year. ber for residents. district in the areas of eduPrimary School. This brand During the beginning of In January, a beautifi- cation, sports, and religion. new lawnmower will help to her tenure in July 2017, the cation project was also They also went into Wilkeep the grass manicured township negotiated and spearheaded and trees were liams/Russell Town where and keep the campus clean partnered with Buckeye planted at the entrance of they honoured another six and pristine. in spearheading a major each community, including individuals. “We also appreciate the cleanup campaign in the Pinder’s Point, Lewis Yard, “I enjoyed the three donation of hand sanitiz- communities throughout Hunters, Mack Town, and years, but I am not going ers because during this time the township. Williams and Russell Town. up for re-election. It was of COVID, it is something She noted that the town- Pot holes were patched in a good run, and I encourwe are using quite a bit of, ship has the responsibility the district, and and street age persons who have a and something that we are and mandate to maintain signs destroyed during the heart for service and a love always in need of, and we and clean side streets from Hurricane were replaced for the community to offer are very grateful for them. Pinder’s Point to Williams/ and erected. The town- themselves to local govOn behalf of our director Russell Town; maintain and ship also contributed to ernment, but they must and the entire GB District, clean public cemeteries; the South Fest event that remember that it is about I extend a sincere thanks and maintain recreational is held every year in the the community,” she said.
PAGE 6, Tuesday, November 17, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
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Poised to create her own legacy WHEN Monique Pindling took the stage at the PLP convention in 2017, her words were a breath of fresh air. She talked of how the Progressive Liberal Party “has become weak” and “dishonest” and allowed the political ambitions of a “few men to dash the aspirations of a whole people”. The daughter of former Prime Minister Sir Lynden Pindling, she talked of how the party had strayed away from the values it once had, warning that “many in the party became overcome with envy, consumed with jealousy and some of us were stung with greed”. Notably, given that she is now seeking the nomination for the South Andros constituency once held by her father, she talked of how “We became too concerned with who became ministers but ignored the taste and values of those who would make good representatives”. As someone seeking to be a representative now, she seems determined to turn her words into action. Her path will not necessarily be easy – as PLP chairman has previously spoken about renominating the party’s four incumbents, and one of those fills that South Andros seat and has done for 13 years. Talk of replacing Picewell Forbes may be premature. However, if we are to look to change in Bahamian politics, new faces and fresh voices are welcome – particularly those not afraid to challenge the status quo. The PLP was tossed out by voters in the last election for good reasons – and the party should not simply present itself all over again without confronting those reasons. We don’t need more of the same old, same old – we’ve seen all that and it didn’t get us very far. Yesterday, she told The Tribune some of her ideas for Andros – from solar panels to reduce energy bills and aid in fighting climate change to expanding food production on the island. She also pointed out the areas where the island needed upgrades – roads, cable, medical facilities, police, garbage disposal and
more. It’s a long list. Ms Pindling says she wants a fair shot at the constituency – and whether residents stick with the man who’s been there for years or give her a chance instead, we would hope that some of her ideas might be capitalised on. When she spoke at the PLP convention, people around the country sat up and took notice. We could do with more voices like hers, across all parties, that bring ideas to the table and make voters think that perhaps there can be other ways than just the same again.
Hail the heroes
Nurse Nicole Morgan and humanitarian Sonia Rolle have been rightly honoured for being heroes in our communities. Nurse Morgan was recognised for her efforts during Hurricane Dorian, when she and her colleagues battled through the storm at Rand Memorial Hospital, coping with seven newborn children and even having to flee a room as floodwater and sewage came pouring in – with those seven babies in tow. Sonia Rolle has long been battling for inner cities, and is still working to help people in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each has been tested and risen to the challenge. Indeed, there is one moment that stands out from Nurse Morgan’s experiences. She says how in the middle of dealing with the hurricane and its aftermath, she had to take a moment to gather herself. She prayed, but as she heard her colleagues calling her name, she realised she was needed, wiped away her tears and went back to work. In the dark, in the wind and the rain, she set aside her fears to go to help those in need. The bravest among us are those who know the dangers they face, and still go to face them. Thank you, Nurse Morgan, for doing so, and thank you, Mrs Rolle, for your continued work. We salute you both.
Texas of Caribbean EDITOR, The Tribune.
SOMEONE forgot to remind US Representatives Debbie Wasserman Shultz and Debbie Mucarsel-Powell that The Bahamas is a sovereign nation, like the United States of America. One of the dailies reported earlier in the year that the two Democratic Party congresswomen had written a letter to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in The Bahamas Stephanie Bowers, with aim of utilising the sheer weight of the Trump administration in urging the Minnis administration not to green light oil drilling in The Bahamas. As a former official of Save the Bays and Coalition to Protect Clifton Bay, Environment Minister Romauld Ferriera has been ridiculed by many environmentalist lobbyists, who cannot appreciate the precarious position the Free National Movement administration finds itself in attempting to make ends meet. Environmental lobbyists, to the best of my knowledge, have yet to propose a feasible idea on how the government can create more sustainable revenue streams. It wouldn’t surprise me if it was these people who petitioned the aforementioned American lawmakers to influence the Bahamian government. Environmental lobbyists come off as idolising Mother Earth, called Gaia in Greek mythology. With
stringent measures in place to protect the environment, the FNM must ensure that an oil spill, similar to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, does not occur here. Another thing, a critic of the BPC deal was being disingenuous on Twitter by referencing the shoddy state of Venezuela’s economy, despite it being one of the world’s largest exporters of oil. What he conveniently failed to mention was that Venezuela’s failure stems from the socialist policies of the late Hugo Chavez, the former president who died in 2013, after ruling that country for 14 years. Compounding Venezuela’s issues is its strained relationship with the American government. Discovering oil won’t automatically transform The Bahamas into another Venezuela. One would hope that the action by Shultz and Mucarsel-Powell wasn’t an attempt to bully a small developing country that heavily relies on the US. Oil is produced in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Alaska, California, North Dakota, New Mexico, Utah, Louisiana, Colorado and Wyoming. With its ability to produce oil, the US finds itself in the enviable position of not being vulnerable to a potential blackmail by hostile OPEC countries. Texas, with its total production of 1.85 billion barrels of oil in 2019, is considered the largest domestic oil producing state in the
US. With a population of 28.7 million, the Lone Star State has the second largest economy in the US, at $1.9 trillion. The average median household income in Texas is $62,263, with a current jobless rate that was just 3.5 percent in 2019, as per Forbes Business. Texas is home to ExxonMobil. In the event Bahamas Petroleum Company (BPC) discovers oil at commercial quantity in The Bahamas, this country’s economy would be revolutionised, with the government finally having the ability to pay off the national debt. Thousands of jobs would be created, lessening our over-reliance on tourism. The government would be in a better position to build schools, hospitals, lowcost homes, roads, airports, docks, police stations, courthouses and a new prison facility. Moreover, the government would finally be in the position to develop the Family Islands, depopulating New Providence in the process. And not only would the government be able to grant free college education to every Bahamian student, it would also be in the financial position to establish a catastrophic health insurance scheme for its citizens. The discovery of oil at commercial quantity would transform The Bahamas into the oil rich Texas of the Caribbean. KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand Bahama October 22, 2020.
The state of the judiciary EDITOR, The Tribune. I HOLD that the main stream media does not always portray the truth of the status quo of most governmental agencies and bodies as it relates to the dispensation of services expected by citizens. Two cases in point. Even before the onslaught of the pandemic it was difficult for litigants to file documents in the Magistrates’ Courts and/or to obtain timely trial dates. In addition, the Supreme Court itself is on apparent “lockdown” and “go slow”. Judges are available but most by remote and virtual social platforms. Proficiency herein is not an ideal situation. In order to access a court file or to obtain copies, one is obliged to make an electronic request for an appointment to view the particular file or obtain the copies. What does this mean for the smooth functioning of the judiciary and the timely delivery of services? Due to limited operational hours law firms and litigants pro se (in person) are unable to file end retrieve documents and pleadings on a timely basis. Commercial and criminal litigation has been upended and even lost in the system which is still not yet fully computerised. Small court claims are being sidelined and persons are fearful of entering the court complex on Nassau and South Streets due to the uncertainty of the health and sanitary status. Keep in mind that the holding cells at the nearby police station have never been in the best of shape. At any given time more than one individual occupies a cell. Are the occupants tested before entry into a cell and is there running water and hand sanitizers available? I doubt it.
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net Mothers who have a child or children for deadbeat dads are having a difficult time filing summons for maintenance and child support. It is a phenomenon of no small order that putative and actual fathers of children in The Bahamas often refuse to pay or contribute a dime to their upkeep and support. Yet we say that we are a Christian nation! What hypocrites we are! Monies paid into the courts allegedly often go missing and may never be paid to the claimant. As a legally trained person I am well aware of the practical difficulties with the judicial system. All of our Supreme Court facilities are in a terrible state of repair and to this very day the annual budget for the judiciary is controlled by the executive in the form of the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Finance. This is dead wrong and it is time that there be a separate annual allocation for control by the Chief Justice and a select and totally independent Judicial Services Commission. Of course there would be oversight by the Public Accounts Commission and a Parliamentary Committee. The Ministry of Works needs to conduct a dedicated survey as to the refurbishment of existing judicial structures, especially downtown Nassau and many of the more populated Family Islands. Lastly there is no adequate Bailiff system in place whereby litigants would pay a fee into a judicial office (set by the Chief Justice and his managerial committee) to have guaranteed service of documents and pleadings on a timely basis. As it is right now, there are on duty and off
duty police officers acting as “bailiffs” with absolutely no oversight and many of them are not to be trusted, especially if they ‘know’ the other party to an action. Documents are not served on time for the court date or at all, yet the officers would have been paid on average B$80.00 per service. Service of court documents by a qualified and sworn in bailiff is critical to the smooth functioning of the judiciary. Tens of thousands of dollars in income for the judiciary could be generated and used for the regular upkeep of the court buildings. I invite my good friend and patron, the Hon Sir Brian Moree, QC, Chief Justice, to transform the judiciary and the way court business is conducted. He’d have my full support. To God then, in all things, be the glory. ORTLAND H BODIE, Jr Nassau, November 15, 2020.
Oil drilling EDITOR, The Tribune.
I AM superstitious. I don’t want to be and try to fight it because it’s not evidence based belief. But it’s 2020 and that means in ophthalmology circles clear vision. So going with the clear vision notion and the fact that so much has gone wrong with our economy and healthcare system, I ask the Prime Minister to take another look at the contract that would allow BPC to operate a test drill for oil in our pristine waters and see if there is some way he can avoid being the prime minister who destroyed The Bahamas. This is after all 2020, the year when all bets are off. JOANNE SMITH Nassau, November 16, 2020.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 17, 2020, PAGE 7
‘Unfortunate’ curfew convictions on records By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Senior Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net NATIONAL Security Minister Marvin Dames said it is “unfortunate” that convictions for breaching COVID-19 rules is showing up on some people’s police records. He said his ministry continues to liaise with the Office of the Attorney General to address the issue. “This is part of the struggle,” he told reporters yesterday. “The last thing we want to do is to see people get police records over us saying you got to be more responsible, it doesn’t make any sense. At the end of the day our goal is to ensure that we do our best, that people do not have police records. We’ve been working harder than
any other government (at accomplishing that).” Last week, Police Commissioner Paul Rolle said legislation is needed to remove criminal records for emergency order breaches that happened before the orders were amended so police could issue tickets to people as opposed to requiring them to appear in court. “We don’t want it to be an impediment to persons,” Commissioner Rolle said. “So, whether the authorities decide to make it a civil penalty or a criminal penalty, whichever, then the law will take its course with that.” Mr Dames also reacted to calls for more police officers on Bimini after video circulated on Sunday showing scores of people bunched
together without masks on a beach. “I saw the video,” Mr Dames said. “You had irresponsible individuals taunting the system and taunting law enforcement. That’s irresponsible, okay, and the police ain’t gon’ know about all of these things. They will find out. Those persons were cited and dealt with but this is something that you are confronting here. Businesses were cited here and continue to be cited. We have a team of COVID officers for Bimini and have been approved months ago.” “We have approved a team of COVID officers for Bimini and the commissioner is responsible for assessing what the needs are, whether there are needs for additional (resources).”
MINISTER of National Security Marvin Dames.
FINED $2K OVER DRUG POSSESSION DISCHARGE OVER POLICE ASSAULT By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A 29-YEAR-OLD man who was found with more than five ounces of drugs was fined $2,150 in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Police arrested Kirklyn Saunders after they found 2.18 ounces of Indian Hemp and 3.38 ounces of hashish in his vehicle on November 14. He pleaded guilty to one count each of simple possession and marijuana possession with the intent to supply during a hearing before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt. He was arraigned alongside Devante Poldor, 24, who was also charged with deceiving a police officer. Poldor denied being in possession of marijuana, but admitted to giving an officer a false name. The prosecution said around 5pm that day, officers observed the accused riding in a silver coloured Nissan along Wentworth Street in a suspicious manner. Officers beckoned for the car to stop and ordered Saunders and Poldor
to get out of the vehicle. The accused were then informed that they would be searched. During their investigation, officers did not find anything on Saunders or Poldor. When they searched their vehicle, officers discovered a brown paper bag containing $170 worth of suspected marijuana along with a clear bag containing $1,900 of suspected hashish. The accused were subsequently arrested. At the time of their arrest, Poldor told officers his name was Rashad Curry; however, when the accused were taken to the Grove Police Station for questioning, investigations revealed his real name was in fact Devante Poldor. As a result, he was charged with deceiving a public officer. During his interview, Saunders acknowledged that officers found the drugs in the car he was in, but denied having knowledge of their existence. Saunders told the magistrate he was very sorry for his actions. He claimed that he was a “heavy smoker”
and bought the drugs for his personal use so he wouldn’t have to keep going “back and forth”. After listening to his explanation, Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt told Saunders that he was beyond the age of “boyish curiosity” and needed to wake up and face the reality of being a man, which in this case, would be taking responsibility for his actions. As a result, she fined him $350 or three months in prison for simple possession and $1,800 or six months in custody for marijuana possession with the intent of supply. Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt said Saunders will have to pay both fines before he is released. Poldor on the other hand, was fined $300 for deceiving a police officer and ordered to be of good behaviour for 12 months. Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt warned the accused that if he wasn’t, he would be sentenced to three months behind bars. The prosecution opted to withdraw the simple drug possession charge that was brought against him.
AN Andros man who threatened and assaulted a police officer last week was conditionally discharged on the agreement he would be of good behaviour for six months. Carldeo Munroe, 25, was charged after assaulting and threatening to kill police constable 3414 Lightbourne at a club in Andros on November 14. He pleaded guilty to both counts during a hearing before Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt yesterday. The court was told that the incident took place at Marvellos Club around 1.50am that morning. The prosecution said that after Mr Munroe committed the acts, he was arrested and taken to the Fresh Creek police station, where he was interviewed under caution and charged with the offences. During the hearing, the accused was represented by lawyer Ian Cargill. He
told the magistrate his client had no previous convictions and was remorseful for his actions. As a result, Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt granted Munroe a conditional discharge on the understanding that he would be of good behaviour for six months. She said if he fails to comply with the conditions of his release, he could risk spending two months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. Yesterday, another man from Exuma appeared before the Chief Magistrate charged with offences of a similar nature. Police arrested Reno Bain, 23, after he assaulted Sergeant 1414 Burrows on October 7. The prosecution said Bain threatened to harm Sgt Burrows, used obscene language and behaved in a disorderly manner at the George Town police station after he was arrested that same day. During his arraignment,
Bain was also accused of being in possession of a quantity of ammunition on August 20, throwing missiles at Corporal 3473 Rahming on October 23 and damaging two windows and a door of an office on November 9. He pleaded guilty to all of the charges and the case was adjourned to today for sentencing. Yesterday, Bain was also accused of breaking into a woman’s home and stealing a Pandora bracelet, Gucci chain, a coin charm and a five-gallon bottle filled with an assortment of coins. The prosecution alleged the accused committed the acts on August 3. He denied the housebreaking and stealing charges and Magistrate Ferguson-Pratt transferred the case to the Exuma district where it will be assigned to a circuit magistrate. Bain returns to court on December 3 to receive the date for that trial.
MAN ACCUSED OF STEALING IPHONE By FARRAH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter fjohnson@tribunemedia.net A 27-YEAR-OLD was remanded to prison yesterday accused of stealing a woman’s iPhone and robbing another woman of more than $200 in cash. Alcott Fox appeared before Senior Magistrate
Carolyn Vogt-Evans accused of stealing a woman’s $1,149 iPhone on November 11. Fox was further accused of robbing another woman of $220 cash on September 28. The prosecution said the accused committed both acts in the parking lot of AG Electronics. During the hearing, the
accused denied both allegations and the case was adjourned to February 24 next year for trial. In the meantime, he was denied bail and remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. He has a right to apply to the Supreme Court for bail.
Memorial Service For Blanche Bowles Johnson Sainford, 93 of James Cistern, Eleuthera, will be held on Wednesday, November 18th, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Grants Town Wesley Methodist Church, Bain Town, Nassau, Bahamas. Officiating will be Rev. L. Carla R. Culmer, assisted by Rev. Ricardo Burrows. Blanche’s memory will forever remain with her husband and best friend John Sainford of James Cistern Eleuthera; one Devoted sister: Myrtle Curry; daughters and sons-in-law: Ruth & (Pastor Gladstone) Thurston, Kathleen Johnson, Hyliah & (Emmanuel) Jones; Janice Bethel and Jenifier & (Michael) Cunningham; One brother-in-law: Julien Guerrier; sister-in-law: Ametide Guerrier of Miami, Florida. Grandchildren: Kevin Bethel, Yvette & (Herbert) Fernander, Min. Latoya Culmer & (Wayne) Culmer, Octavier, Gladstone Jr., Demond “Mon” & (Trevon) Thurston, Delano Sr. & (Denise) Thurston., Gastineau & (Crystal) Thurston; Shavonne Rolle, Tamara Johnson, Prescott and Benjamin Cleare, Terrell and Terez Johnson, Corie Ferguson, Cohen Johnson; Great grandchildren: Tyler and Tevin Bethel, Katasio Bridgewater, Zarnardee and Tazahria Fernander, Rykiesh, Rykia, Agajuan, Izaiah Culmer. Tyiece Bennett and Anaiya Cooper. Tenaz, Carlisha, Demonia, Jade, Demia, Madison and Mercedes, Devano, Delano Jr. De’nario, Sapphire, Israel Thurston, Michelle & (Wendell) Walker, Lexus, Maiya, Mikayla Cunningham, Makarla Curtis, Justin Bonamy, Joshua Cash, Prescott Cleare Jr. Benjamin Cleare Jr. Benita, and Emmanuel Cleare. Terrell Jr., Travis, Terneisha, Terez Jr. and Terrinique Johnson; 5 Great great grand: Tenaz Jr., Kentrell Johnson; Jae’ Lynn Johnson, Zhamai and Zhaurie Culmer; Nieces & Nephews: Bertrum Davis & Vera Davis, Betty & Livingston Rolle, Zilpha, Beaulah Bowles, Edgar & Judy Bowles, Neville Bowles Jr., Derek Johnson, Lucille Delancy & Richard Delancy, Lillymae & Ronald Tinker, Raquel Mackey, Bernadette & Solomon Johnson, Seymour Johnson, Willie, Vernon, Floyd, Bennett, Clayton & Brendamae Bowles, Lydia Bowles, Levern Turgeon, Cynthia & John Johnson, Christine “Vonnie” & (Chief Superintendent of Police-Kevin) Mortimer and Whitney Curry. A host of other relatives and friends including: Pauline Bethel, Maxcine Gaitor, Marvin, Cecil and Jean Pinder, Gloria & Edward Claude, Andrew Thurston, Vivette Moss, Elroy Saunders, Olivia & Albert Fernander, Sophia & Antonio Mackey, Georgette & George McPhee, Nicole & Dario Smith, Kareem and Levi Paul, Neina Fox & Shirley Fowler, Rosemary Thompson, Elsie White, Sylvia Johnson, Pauline Johnson, Geraldine Johnson & Family, Judy Johnson Rolle & family, Alsaida Hanna and Family, Wards, Bethel and Bowles family, Jamima Johnson and family, Gloria Rolle and family, Hildamae Rolle and family, Neville and Rosemary Seymour. Special thanks to (godchild) Joeann Johnson & Lisa Thompson, Billy & Brenda Stubbs, Benson Johnson, Elphemia Johnson, Doctors, Nurses and staff of the James Cistern, Rock Sound and Hatchet Bay clinic in Eleuthera, and the entire settlement of James Cistern, Eastern Star, Pastor Edmena Bethel and Warren Johnson and The Methodist Church at JC, Eleuthera, Bishop Gersham Pratt and family, Carolyn Moss and family, Julia Bethel and Family, Denise Clarke and family, Cheryl Fox, Margaret Swain, Richard Johnson, Sharon Scavella, Hon. Stephen H. Johnson, Roland & Barbara Rose, Ruth Bethel, Lenora Poitier and Charlotte McPhee and The Church of God of Prophecy, and the community of Gambier; and a host of other relatives too numerous to mention. Viewing will be held in the “Celestial Suite” at Restview Memorial Mortuary and Crematorium Ltd., Robinson and Solider Road on TUESDAY (TODAY) from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
PAGE 8, Tuesday, November 17, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
Women make up half our population why not half the assembly? WOMEN political leaders are seriously outnumbered in The Bahamas – a fact that the Caribbean Institute for Women in Leadership (CIWiL) intends to change. The first step was to establish a Bahamas chapter of this regional organisation. This month, CIWiL Bahamas celebrates its first anniversary and in a short period of time, the women who make up this nongovernmental organisation have been making serious inroads towards their goal nurturing women leaders, supporting those already in existence and making the public aware of the importance of having women political leaders. The president of the Bahamas Chapter, Charlene Paul, told me they held a successful women’s webinar series under the title: “Girl, Stop Making Excuses!” and invited a range of speakers to address scores of women in various forms of leadership throughout The Bahamas. The series was well attended, then posted on to CIWiL Bahamas Chapter’s Facebook page, with more than 20,000 views. She said it shows people do care about women in leadership; looking at the important role women play in organisation, nurturing and effectiveness in their own homes. The former director of the Department of Gender and Family Affairs and United Nations gender and women’s rights advisor, Gaynel Curry, was among the presenters making an impassioned plea for Bahamian women to rise and take their stance in politics, helping to shape the future of this nation in a positive way. She is calling for women
Face to Face
By FELICITY DARVILLE
to take up the calling for percent… because women representation, and push make up half of the poputo make up 50 percent of lation of The Bahamas. So, the women political leaders why not 50 percent? Impedin this country as we head iments include financing, into the upcoming General training and mentorship just to name a few. They are Elections. “I would like to see more potential barriers but they can be easily women stepovercome as a ping forward ‘I would like to strong people as candidates – women who see more women and by workare ready to stepping forward ing together in a non-partisan lead on day as candidates – way. one – women “It is also who are fully women who are important cognizant of ready to lead on and urgent the challenges negotiate and opportuni- day one – women to female leaderties that they who are fully ship that insists will invariably cognizant of the on substance face as women over form as leaders,” she challenges and opportunities a priority in said. The Bahamas. “We know it that they will This requires a won’t be easy and those who invariably face as level of unmitigated honesty are already in women leaders. these positions We know it won’t about 21st century needs in can attest to that. But, it is be easy and those order to have strong, astute time to reset; who are already and resetting in these positions women political leaders with is an action national and word which can attest to global impact. requires undo- that. But, it is We must be ing something time to reset...’ honest if we and/or redoing want world it to improve or change.” change the status quo. Women not only in Par“There is an urgency to move beyond the 13 per- liament and Cabinet are cent of women leadership needed, she added, but currently in the House of women who are in decision Assembly. We need to take making positions in politics, immediate steps to remove including helping to decide the the impediments that issues such as which candiblock the achievement of dates are chosen to stand 50 percent women politi- and in which constituencies. cal leaders in the House of For the women who read Assembly… and I did say 50 this and think that they may
www.ub.edu.bs
CAREER OPPORTUNITY SENIOR ADMINISTRATION University of The Bahamas extends an invitation for suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Vice President of Human Resources. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing creative vision, inspired leadership and strategic management for all human resources functions in support of the University’s mission and strategic plan, especially in setting goals and analyzing ways to raise standards, increasing the quality of efforts and improving overall performance of the human resources functions at the institution. To read the complete position announcement, visit http://www.ub.edu.bs/about-us/career-opportunities/ administration/ Qualifications include an earned master’s degree in Human Resource Management or Public Administration or a related field from an accredited institution; at least five (5) years of work experience at a leadership level in human resources in a complex organization, preferably in higher education; and applicable human resources certification and training. Applicants should submit the following: • A letter of application highlighting work experience and accomplishments relevant to the position; • A curriculum vitae or resume; • Copies of all academic qualifications with transcripts (original transcripts will be required upon employment), certificates; and • The names and contact information of three professional references.
CHARLENE PAUL, left, president of the Caribbean Institute for Women in Leadership, Bahamas Chapter; and Gaynel Curry, below, United Nations gender and women’s rights advisor.
want to rise to the challenge, Gaynel suggested they ask themselves a series of ‘why’ questions, including: “Why do you want to run for office? What process do you hope to influence along the way? What do you intend to achieve once you make it into the political arena? What are you aiming toward improving? What makes me desire leadership? What do I bring to the table as a leader? What skillsets do I need to ensure I am successful in this arena in this century? What am I prepared to do to ensure more women leaders are in the political arena? How do I build up and carry other women along? “ “It’s about asking yourself a series of questions, some of which are designed to make you very uneasy,” Gaynel added. “It ought to make you very uneasy. After all, one must approach the political life with an unshakeable, convincing confidence. You will know it’s your purpose when you can’t stop thinking about it. When you can’t stop thinking about what you want to do with it, how you want to advance, and who you want to bring along?” What was impressive, she said, is the amount of women who were willing to offer themselves in the last General Elections, including independents. “Everyone in this country has something to offer,” she said. “We need to think about the next generation of leaders. The Bahamas is far too small for tribalism. We must be willing to go beyond ‘sameness’ and rely on the talents of everyone, regardless of political affiliation, class, gender, age, or ability or disability.” CIWiL Bahamas took on another great cause in its first year of existence. President Paul reports that her group was active with the Department of Gender and Family Affairs, Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development, as well as Zonta Bahamas, to push for policy change through the Gender Based Violence Council. Other stakeholders included the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Crisis Centre, Bahamas Union of Teachers, the Men’s Desk and many others, including attorney Marion Bethel Sears, international expert of CEDAW (the United Nations Convention to End all forms of Discrimination Against Women). A statement to Minister Frankie Campbell points out: “Currently, there is no comprehensive law on gender-based violence. The Domestic Violence (Protection Orders) Act, which came into force on 22 December 2008, focuses on domestic violence, defined as physical, sexual, psychological or financial abuse that is committed by
a person against a spouse partner, child or any other person who is a member of the household or dependent. A new law on genderbased violence against women and domestic violence had already been proposed by the National Task Force for GenderBased Violence in 2015. On that basis, the previous administration had started the process of drafting a Gender-Based Violence Bill. The bill, prepared in 2016, is currently under review by the new administration. The Special Rapporteur believes this provides the Government with a unique opportunity to make use of the newly adopted CEDAW General recommendation number 35 and develop a comprehensive legislation to address all forms of gender-based violence against women and domestic violence. It would cover prevention, protection and prosecution measures and coordinating machinery.” In 2015, The National Task Force for Gender Based Violence, chaired by Justice Rubie M Nottage and deputy chairpersons Dr Sandra Dean-Patterson and Dr Robin Roberts, presented a Strategic Plan to Address Gender-Based Violence in The Bahamas (the Strategic Plan). Some key aspects of the Strategic Plan have been implemented since its presentation, such as the creation of the Department of Gender and Family Affairs. Unfortunately, there are many elements which remain unattended. Therefore, a group of concerned NGOs have come together to lobby for focus, attention and action to combat Gender Based Violence in our Communities. “The goal is to move our collective activism to action,” states a document to the minister, calling for an officially recognised Gender-Based Violence Council. The committee chair is Marisa Mason Smith, who is leading Zonta Bahamas’ national campaign of 16 days of Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls in the coming
days. The group started today with the tying of the first orange bow. The primary focus and development of the Gender-Based Violence Council is to be a conduit for the equality of all women regardless of political, economic, social, religious affiliations and or persuasion. The ultimate goal of the GBV Council is to bring about amendments and changes in the current legislation, and to create relevant and appropriate GBV legislation that will directly protect women and girls within The Bahamas. In collaboration with ParlAmericas, CIWiL held its regional board meeting in Bridgetown, Barbados February 12–13 this year. This high-level meeting was attended by representatives from Grenada, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Trinidad & Tobago, St Kitts & Nevis, The Bahamas, and Canada. Throughout CIWiL’s power-packed first year, President Paul said the group held a series of town meetings and made radio and television appearances to bring awareness to the importance of women in leadership. Those events included the need for more women in politics; the need for more women in Parliament; and the difference women make in political leadership. A series of webinars was held. An August 29 event saw interviews with Democratic National Alliance party leader Arinthia Komolafe; Senator Jasmin Dareus; Glenys HannaMartin MP; former Cabinet Minister Melanie Griffin; former Deputy Prime Minister Cynthia “Mother” Pratt; current only female Cabinet Minister Lanisha Rolle; Ambassador Astra Armbrister; former Cabinet Minister Loretta Butler-Turner; Bahamas Constitution party leader Ali McIntosh; and regional guests, former Minister Joanne Massiah; University of the West Indies Professor G Hosein; and Dr D Cox. For more information on CIWiL, contact CIWIL – Bahamas National Chapter on Facebook or email President Charlene Paul at crpfre@live.com.
Applications should be submitted via hrapply@ub.edu.bs by the deadline of Friday, 27th November 2020 marked: Office of the President University of The Bahamas Oakes Field Campus University Drive P.O. Box N-4912 Nassau, The Bahamas
CIWIL Bahamas Chapter Board Members Sharon Martin, secretary; Charlene Paul, chair; Robyn Lynes, deputy chair; Virginia Thurston, treasurer; Missing - Jasadette Hepburn, public relations officer.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, November 17, 2020, PAGE 9
And you thought things were bad in the White House
BRITISH Prime Minister Boris Johnson and, far right, his advisor Dominic Cummings leaving 10 Downing Street with a box on Friday. WHETHER or not one agrees with former US President Richard Nixon who said, with supreme irony, that he ‘rejected the cynical view that politics is a dirty business’, there is no denying recent goingson at the heart of Britain’s political establishment have been dramatic and messy. It has become clear that recently there has been infighting, turmoil and a power struggle among the Prime Minister’s staff at No 10 Downing Street. This has led to the abrupt and enforced departure at the end of last week of Mr Johnson’s chief policy adviser, Dominic Cummings, whose ally and director of communications, Lee Cain, has also left office – apparently they had become known as the “vote leave duopoly”. Cummings owed his reputation as something of a political genius - with incisive organisational skills and an aggressive approach - to having masterminded the ‘Vote Leave’ campaign in advance of the 2016 UK referendum that led to Brexit. This was followed by his key role in the Conservatives’ thumping election victory in December last year - in particular, knowing, as he did, how to appeal to disenchanted voters in order to secure their support in constituencies in the North that were traditional Labour strongholds. But his combustible and combative nature was less well suited to the business of governance that requires conciliation, compromise and co-operation. The UK press is covering Cummings’ departure exhaustively because, until he walked out of the front door of No 10 for the last time, he was, in effect,
the second most powerful person in the country. How, one might ask, could such an individual acquire that level of power and influence? As a special adviser appointed by the Prime Minister, he was an unelected bureaucrat. There is a team of these across the UK government - perhaps 100-strong and known as Spads - who are politically-appointed, work in the shadows and oil the wheels of government. But they are strictly advisers within the rule that “advisers advise and ministers decide”. This is, of course, important because ministers are elected politicians who are open to scrutiny in Parliament and the wider world. In a parliamentary democracy, if major decisions are allowed to be made by an appointed meritocracy, such a practice can open the door to authoritarianism and dictatorship because the general public does not know who such people are so nobody can be held accountable. It was the case, however, that Cummings’ reputation placed him in an unusually strong position as an adviser to the Prime Minister who, it was said, was too beholden to him. He had the ear of his boss to an unusual extent insofar as Mr Johnson perhaps relied too heavily on his ideas, judgement, counsel and drive in getting things done. This reliance and trust was particularly evident earlier this year when Cummings himself flouted the then national lockdown rules - which he had had a part in drawing up - by making a 260-mile long car journey to the northeast of England. Most people thought he deserved to be sacked,
The Peter Young column but, because of what seemed to be misplaced loyalty, Mr Johnson declined to do so. It is claimed that recently the accuracy and quality of Cummings’ advice was being increasingly questioned in the light of the government’s growing number of U-turns together with its chopping and changing or altering course. But, worst of all, his arrogance and confrontational style - and what has been termed his exhaustingly iconoclastic and adversarial approach - created unnecessary strife and conflict and made him a divisive figure. He did not hide his disdain for political convention and for the Tory parliamentary party and he was dismissive of others. Notably, he denigrated the civil service and bullied or treated with contempt anyone who challenged his methods; and, reportedly, he revelled in adopting strong-arm tactics and secret media briefings to push through a particular agenda. Clearly, Cummings was exceeding his powers and creating a toxic environment. In light of all this, it may seem strange that he lasted as long as he did and was not reined in before by a Prime Minister who tolerated this sort of behaviour and abuse of power within his own office. But nobody is indispensable and advisers to ministers come and go. His enemies and many others are surely glad to see the back of him, and apparently the catalyst was Mr Johnson’s fiancée, Carrie Symonds, who appears to have convinced him that his chief policy adviser was becoming a liability. As the controversy
THE DARKNESS DEEPENS AGAIN THIS time last year, I wrote about the continuing civil unrest in Hong Kong that had developed into the most serious political violence since Britain handed the territory back to China in 1997 at the end of its 99-year lease. The unrest was partly in reaction to what was seen as Chinese meddling in Hong Kong’s internal affairs. It is claimed this has led to the gradual erosion of the freedoms guaranteed for 50 years (from the 1997 handover) by the 1984 SinoBritish Joint Declaration which created the agreed system of “one country, two systems”; but the riots themselves were sparked by the ill-fated Extradition Bill which would have enabled the Hong Kong authorities to send criminals to stand trial in China. As the demonstrators intensified their demands to include calls for full democracy, there was an increasing danger of Chinese intervention. It was therefore no surprise that Beijing followed up last June with a new controversial, far-reaching and sweeping national security law. This criminalised what was termed subversion,
separatism, terrorism and treason, and it was seen in Hong Kong as a serious threat amid fears it would lead to greater activity by Chinese police and security agents and a stronger clampdown of political dissent and pro-democracy demonstrations. It is clear China is a repressive state that stifles dissent. So Beijing has now gone a step further. Last week, the Hong Kong government - led by its proBeijing Chief Executive, Carrie Lam - disqualified four opposition members of its legislature for ‘endangering security’. This came after China’s Parliament passed a motion allowing the Hong Kong executive to expel legislators without resort to a review by the courts. The chief executive told reporters the disqualifications were ‘constitutional, legal and reasonable’ and were needed to uphold the territory’s Basic Law. As a consequence, the remaining members of the 19-seat pro-democracy group in the 70-seat legislature have resigned in protest. China is now saying that lawmakers should be disqualified if they support independence for
VACCINES - A CHANCE FOR BORIS TO WIPE THE SLATE CLEAN
Hong Kong, refuse to acknowledge the mainland’s sovereignty, ask foreign forces to intervene or in other ways threaten national security. This is all-encompassing and the dismissal of the four legislators is widely seen as the latest attempt by China to restrict Hong Kong’s freedoms - as such, it is an example of its evertightening grip on this semi-autonomous city. In response, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has called this action ‘a further assault on Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy and freedoms under the UK-China Joint Declaration’. He added ‘this campaign to harass, stifle and disqualify democratic opposition tarnishes China’s international reputation and undermines Hong Kong’s long-term stability’. It has also been condemned by the US and the EU together with organisations like Amnesty International. But, while the UK has offered a route to British citizenship for those Hong Kong residents still holding British National Overseas status, it remains to be seem what other action may follow.
continues, some will see the brouhaha as a cautionary tale for the exercise of parliamentary democracy. Many are now hoping the Prime Minister will reset his way of making policy and conducting business and will restore integrity and trust by ushering in a new era of more conciliatory, consensual government that accords due respect to ministers and MPs who may have differing opinions. Most importantly, it is said he needs to improve relations with members of his own Tory party and revive the traditional role and influence of his Cabinet which, it is said, has been too often simply rubber-stamping decisions made by small groups of ministers. One of the two main issues now confronting Mr Johnson is the nation’s full and final departure from the European Union - with or without a trade deal after the transition period ends on December 31. The other is the COVID -19 pandemic which is seen as the biggest crisis since the Second World War. Despite the sudden eviction from No 10 of the two “vote leave: protagonists, it is unlikely Mr Johnson will change tack on Brexit at this late stage, though it is possible he will be forced into last minute concessions to the EU. As for coronavirus in Britain, I offer comment in a separate piece on this page.
IT HAS been clear for some time that European countries were hit with a tsunami of new coronavirus cases in September and that this constituted the infamous second wave of infections. The result has been further lockdowns, despite their ineffectiveness, and the infliction of more suffering on many people. There has been untold damage to their wellbeing and mental health - not least to the residents of care homes who have been denied visits from family and friends - as well as to their livelihoods and the economy as a whole. Even though thousands of coronavirus cases are still being recorded and the number of deaths in the UK has risen to over 50,000, it is clear that treatment of serious cases has improved and many will hope that the terrible statistics will dramatically improve following the announcement by the US company, Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech, that a potentially effective COVID-19 vaccine will be available soon - possibly as early as December. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has warned, however, the pandemic is far from over and the availability of a vaccine should not lead to immediate complacency and the lifting of social distancing measures. Commentators are now saying every single person in the country should be offered a COVID-19 vaccination free of charge – and the Regius Professor of Medicine at Oxford University, Sir John Bell, is recorded as saying that there is a ‘70 to 80 percent chance of vaccinating all vulnerable groups by Easter’, as long as ‘they don’t screw up distribution of the vaccine’. His scepticism relates to the UK’s government’s less than stellar record in relation to issues like shortages of personal protective equipment and the test and trace system as well as the poor handling generally of the pandemic. Most people will surely agree that, as a priority, vaccines ought to be made available first to those most at risk like the elderly, care workers and front line medical staff. But everyone will want assurances that the relative speed of the development of vaccines has not meant that safety and accountability has been compromised or relaxed in any way - though, as with any vaccine, there will always be some risk. According to reports, there are some 200 vaccines being developed worldwide of which only 11 are in the final regulatory approvals process. The UK government has apparently ‘forward purchased’ a total of 190 million doses of those which have been most publicised – Pfizer and BioNTech, the joint enterprise between AstraZeneca and Oxford University, and the French company Valneva. It is now being said Britain’s overall recovery depends on effective distribution of a vaccine and getting as many people as possible to take it as soon as that is feasible. If Mr Johnson’s government is able to achieve this, I believe its past failures in dealing with the virus during most of the course of this year will be forgiven and forgotten by the public. In that case, the Prime Minister will be personally redeemed - and I wonder whether there are any lessons we in The Bahamas can draw from all of this.
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HATE CRIMES IN US REACH HIGHEST LEVEL IN OVER DECADE WASHINGTON Associated Press
HATE crimes in the US rose to the highest level in more than a decade as federal officials also recorded the highest number of hatemotivated killings since the FBI began collecting that data in the early 1990s, according to an FBI report released Monday. There were 51 hate crime murders in 2019, which includes 22 people who were killed in a shooting that targeted Mexicans at a Walmart in the border city of El Paso, Texas, the report said. The suspect in that August 2019 shooting, which left two dozen other people injured, was charged with both state and federal crimes in what authorities said was an attempt to scare Hispanics into leaving the United States. There were 7,314 hate crimes last year, up from 7,120 the year before — and approaching the 7,783 of 2008. The FBI’s annual report defines hate crimes as those motivated by bias based on a person’s race, religion or sexual orientation, among other categories. Some of the 2019 increases may be the result of better reporting by police departments, but officials and advocacy groups don’t doubt hate crimes are on the rise. The data also shows there was a nearly seven percent increase in religion-based hate crimes, with 953 reports of crimes targeting Jews and Jewish institutions last year, up from 835 the year before.
SECOND HURRICANE HEADS TOWARDS CENTRAL AMERICA MANAGUA, Nicaragua Associated Press
HURRICANE Iota rapidly strengthened yesterday into a Category 5 storm that is likely to bring catastrophic damage to the same part of Central America already battered by a powerful Hurricane Eta less than two weeks ago. Iota has intensified over the western Caribbean on approach to Nicaragua and Honduras. The US National Hurricane Center said the storm had maximum sustained winds of 160mph. Authorities warned that Iota would probably come ashore over areas where Eta’s torrential rains saturated the soil, leaving it prone to new landslides and floods, and that the storm surge could reach a shocking 15 to 20 feet above normal tides.
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‘More people may die’ - Biden urges Trump to aid transition WILMINGTON, Delaware Associated Press PRESIDENT-ELECT Joe Biden yesterday warned of dire consequences if President Donald Trump and his administration continue to refuse to coordinate with his transition team on the coronavirus pandemic and block briefings on national security, policy issues and vaccine plans. The remarks marked Biden’s toughest comments to date on Trump’s failure to acknowledge his election loss and cooperate with the incoming administration for a peaceful transfer of power. “More people may die if we don’t coordinate,” Biden told reporters during a news conference in Wilmington, Delaware. Biden and his aides have emphasised the importance of being briefed on White House efforts to control the pandemic and distribute prospective vaccines. The Trump administration is working on its own distribution plan, while Biden’s chief of staff indicated his transition team will proceed with their own planning separately because of the obstruction. Biden called the vaccine distribution a “huge, huge undertaking”, and said that if his team has to wait until he takes office to dig into the government’s distribution plan, they’ll be “behind, over a month, month and a half”. “So it’s important that it be done, that there be coordination now, now, as rapidly as we can get that done,” he said. Before taking questions, the Democrat outlined his plans to alleviate inequality and boost the US economy but said that any structural reforms depended first on
PRESIDENT-elect Joe Biden speaks about economic recovery at The Queen theatre yesterday in Wilmington, Delaware. reining in the pandemic and delivering more immediate relief. “Once we shut down the virus and deliver economic relief to workers and businesses, then we can start to build back better than before,” he said. Biden has vowed to spend trillions of dollars to reinvigorate US manufacturing, expand health care coverage and combat climate change, among other priorities. But his chief priority remains controlling the pandemic, which is surging to record levels and forcing state and local leaders to implement new rounds of restrictions on local businesses.
The president-elect has so far tried to sidestep difficult questions about whether he might support a short-term national lockdown to arrest the surge of coronavirus cases. Since defeating Trump, Biden has devoted most of his public remarks to encouraging Americans to wear masks and embrace social distancing measures. But members of his coronavirus advisory board have been more specific. One member, Dr Michael Osterholm, recently suggested a four- to six-week national lockdown with financial aid for Americans whose livelihoods would be affected. He later walked
back the remarks and was rebutted by two other members of the panel who said a widespread lockdown shouldn’t be under consideration. Speaking yesterday, Osterholm was not asked about a potential lockdown, but he said the nation needs “a standard set of principles”. “Right now, we don’t have a standardised set so you’re hearing all these governors and mayors are scrambling to try to find what is the right answer for us, and it would surely help all of them, and that’s what I’m hearing from them, that we have a standardised set of recommendations and
protocols,” he said. Biden was asked yesterday whether he would encourage leaders to look at potentially reinstating stay-at-home orders now that the pandemic is surging nationwide. He avoided answering directly and instead called on officials to embrace mask-wearing and criticised those who haven’t. Before his Monday address, Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris held virtual meetings with AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, General Motors CEO Mary Barra and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, among others.
ANOTHER VACCINE SHOWS STRONG RESULTS A SECOND experimental COVID-19 vaccine — this one from Moderna Inc — yielded extraordinarily strong early results yesterday, another badly needed dose of hope as the pandemic enters a terrible new phase. Moderna said its vaccine appears to be 94.5 percent effective, according to preliminary data from an ongoing study. A week ago, competitor Pfizer Inc. announced its own vaccine looked 90 percent effective — news that puts both companies on track to seek permission within weeks for emergency use in the US. The results are “truly
striking,” said Dr Anthony Fauci, the US government’s top infectious-diseases expert. “The vaccines that we’re talking about, and vaccines to come, are really the light at the end of the tunnel.” A vaccine can’t come fast enough, as virus cases topped 11 million in the US over the weekend — 1 million of them recorded in just the past week — and governors and mayors are ratcheting up restrictions ahead of Thanksgiving. The outbreak has killed more than 1.3 million people worldwide, over 246,000 of them in the US. Both vaccines require
two shots, given several weeks apart. US officials said they hope to have about 20 million Moderna doses and another 20 million of the vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech to use in late December. Dr Stephen Hoge, Moderna’s president, welcomed the “really important milestone” but said having similar results from two different companies is what’s most reassuring. “That should give us all hope that actually a vaccine is going to be able to stop this pandemic and hopefully get us back to our lives,” Hoge said.
NURSE KATHE OLMSTEAD, right, gives volunteer Melissa Harting, of Harpersville, New York, an injection as a study of a possible COVID-19 vaccine, developed by the National Institutes of Health and Moderna Inc. Photo: Hans Pennink/AP
PAGE 12, Tuesday, November 17, 2020
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CHRIS Paul dunks during the first half of the NBA All-Star game in Chicago, February 16, 2020. (AP Photo/Nam Huh)
All-Star guard Chris Paul sent to Suns in blockbuster trade By TIM REYNOLDS AP Basketball Writer CHRIS Paul holds a $44 million option for the 202122 season, a massive payday that may have kept some teams from trying to trade for the All-Star point guard. The Phoenix Suns weren’t deterred. They have a pair of AllStars in their backcourt now, with hopes the duo of Paul and Devin Booker — one of the league’s most dynamic young scorers — will be enough to get the franchise back to the postseason for the first time since 2010. The trade sending Paul to the Suns from Oklahoma City was completed last night, a blockbuster to start what could be a wild few days of NBA transactions before training camps begin next month. The particulars: The Suns get Paul and forward Abdel
AYTON, from PAGE 16 NBA when the team was named the 2019 “NB Changemaker of the Year.”
Nader, while the Thunder get Kelly Oubre Jr, Ricky Rubio, Ty Jerome, Jalen Lecque and a protected 2022 first-round pick. “We are excited to welcome Chris Paul and Abdel Nader to Phoenix,” Suns general manager James Jones said. “Chris’ leadership and competitive approach to the game will have an immeasurable impact on our team. Abdel possesses all the traits on and off the court that will complement our culture.” Rubio reacted to the trade news with a tweet, several hours before the moves got league approval and could be considered official: “... what a business,” he wrote. It is a huge leap for the Suns, who went 8-0 inside the NBA’s restart bubble at Walt Disney World in a frantic, but futile, quest to make the playoffs. Paul is owed about $41 million
for this season and has that player option for next season, but the Suns obviously felt that is money worth spending. Combined, he and Booker will make around $140 million in the next two seasons alone. But the Suns now have a starting backcourt that should be as good — or better — than just about any other NBA team. “We want to thank Chris for the contributions he has made to the Thunder and the Oklahoma City community both this season and during his initial tenure in 2005-06 with the Hornets,” Thunder general manager Sam Presti said. “Chris has been the consummate leader and has left a tremendous legacy in a short period of time.” It’s the second trade that the Thunder agreed to in a span of two days, the first coming Sunday
The deal was said to not only grow PayPal’s business, but also change how the fans experienced watching Suns games. As they prepare for the start of the new season on
December 22, the Suns with their young core of players led by guard Devin Booker, have added veteran point guard Chris Paul from the Oklahoma City Thunder in a major trade yesterday,
when they agreed to send Dennis Schroder to the Los Angeles Lakers for Danny Green and the 28th pick in Wednesday’s draft. That transaction will be completed after the draft, a person with knowledge of those particulars told AP. That trade, along with the Paul trade, could give the Thunder as many as 17 first-round picks in the next seven drafts.
Paul was an All-Star for the 10th time this past season, averaging 17.6 points and 6.7 assists. Phoenix becomes his fourth team in less than four years; he was with the Los Angeles Clippers through the 2016-17 season, then spent two years in Houston, then last year with the Thunder after being acquired as part of the trade that sent Russell Westbrook to the Rockets. “Man, I’m 35 years old and I still get a chance to play basketball every day and say that’s my way of life,” Paul said last week, when asked about trade rumors during an appearance in the Time100 speakers’ series. “That is crazy in itself so regardless what happens, I’ll be ready.” Paul is also president of the National Basketball Players Association. The trade reunites him with
Suns coach Monty Williams; Paul played for Williams in 2010-11 when Williams was in his first season coaching the New Orleans Hornets. “He is the kind of guy that changes organisations,” Williams said before the Suns and Thunder played on January 31. “Everywhere he has gone, he has made everybody better. That is just who Chris is.” Oubre averaged a careerhigh 18.7 points last season. Rubio is entering his 10th NBA season and has also played for the Timberwolves and Jazz. He signed a three-year, $51 million deal with the Suns before last season and averaged 13 points and 8.8 assists with Phoenix. Jerome was the 24th overall pick out of Virginia last season and played in 31 games as a rookie while averaging 3.3 points. Lecque played in five games last season.
which is expected to rise their stock for the playoffs this year. (See the full story at the top of this page). Now the Suns are near the completion of the first phase of a $230 million renovation of Talking Stick Resort Arena. They are also set to open a new state-of-the-art $45 million practice facility just in time for the new season. As he waits for the new season to unfold, Ayton throws his support behind the frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic as he has aided in upgrading two respite rooms at Banner Estrella Medical Center that provide much-needed moments of relaxation. “I thought it was important to create the rooms because leisure time is important, especially when you have a long, stressful day,” Ayton said in a Suns video. “These workers have been through a lot throughout this year, 2020 hasn’t been all good and this is just something for them to really relax and just take some stress off. With a Phoenix Suns theme, the two rooms are now furnished with new amenities such as a massage chair, headphones, calming music and food for the workers doing their part to address the pandemic. “They’ve been through a lot,” Ayton later said. “They help us fight off COVID. I just want to give a huge thank you.”
There’s also an autographed Ayton white No. 22 jersey in the area. Ayton, 22, catered food for over 300 meals and Puma donated 1,000 pairs of slides for frontline health care workers at Banner Desert Medical Center during the NBA hiatus that began on March 11 after Utah Jazz centre Rudy Gobert tested positive for COVID-19. Booker joined Ayton in support, donating $25,000 to Banner Health. Only the second Bahamian to be selected with the first pick in the NBA draft, following Mychal ‘Sweet Bells’ Thompson, who was the top overall pick in 1978 by the Portland Trail Blazers out of the University of Minnesota, Ayton fell short of winning the NBA’s Rookie of the Year honours. He began his notoriety as a sophomore in 2014-15 when he led Balboa to a 17-14 record, averaging 21 points, 16 rebounds and 3.8 blocked shots per game. In 2015, he was ranked by Scout as the top prospect in all of high school in their “Ultimate 100” list. Then a junior, Ayton transferred to Hillcrest Prep Academy in Phoenix to play out his final two years. As he embarked on his college career, Ayton posted a season high with 19 rebounds on December 30, 2017 against in-state rival Arizona State Sun Devils.
And on January 20, 2018, he blocked six shots, which was listed as the most in Arizona freshman single game history. With just “one and done,” the 6-foot, 11-inch, 250-pound centre packed his bags and took his talent to the NBA with the Suns as the first overall pick. He is one of two Bahamians now participating in the NBA alongside Chavano ‘Buddy’ Hield, who is now heading for his fifth season, but there are reports of the 27-year-old 6-1 guard out of Grand Bahama being traded from the Sacramento Kings. Meanwhile, Thompson, a colour commentator for the Los Angeles Lakers, whom he helped to win back-toback titles in 1987-88, has an American born son Klay Thompson, who will be returning to the Golden State Warriors’ line-up this season after he underwent surgery to repair a torn ACL in his left knee sustained during game six of the NBA finals in 2019. As a result of just completing the 2019/20 season in October with the Lakers winning the title over the Miami Heat in six games in the bubble in Orlando, due to COVID-19, the NBA has agreed to start the new season on December 22 with a 72-game schedule. The NBA draft will take place on Wednesday night and free agency will commence shortly thereafter with training camps starting on December 1.
CHRIS PAUL (AP)
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Tuesday, November 17, 2020, PAGE 13
MARCH MADNESS IN ONE PLACE? NCAA LOOKING AT INDIANAPOLIS By JOHN MARSHALL AP Basketball Writer THE University of Maryland-Baltimore County pulled off one of the greatest upsets in American sports history at the 2018 NCAA Tournament, knocking off Virginia to become the first No. 16 seed to beat a No. 1. The madness kept coming that March from Pittsburgh to San Diego. Top-ranked Xavier lost in the second round and so did No. 2 seeds North Carolina and Cincinnati. Two thirdseeded teams were bounced early, as were three No. 4 seeds during an opening weekend that epitomised the beloved spectacle the NCAA Tournament has become. That coast-to-coast excitement won’t happen this season: The NCAA announced yesterday it plans to hold the entire 2021 men’s tournament in a single geographic area to mitigate the risks of COVID-19. It is in talks with Indianapolis to serve as the host city. Instead of all those upsets, buzzer beaters and star-turning performances being spread out at venues across the country, the bracket will be played out at sites in one city, a sort of one-stop shopping version of the tournament typically played in every region of the United States. The news comes nine months after the coronavirus pandemic led to the
cancellation of the 2020 tournaments, a severe economic blow not just to the host cities but scores of athletic departments across the country. “It will be a very controlled environment,” NCAA senior vice president of basketball Dan Gavitt said. “It’ll be different, it’ll be historic and it’ll be hopefully something we all treasure and experience just once, hopefully not ever again.” There was no immediate word on the women’s tournament, which runs concurrently in March and early April. The pandemic has disrupted every sport for months now. The NBA and NHL completed their seasons in controlledenvironment bubbles and baseball trimmed its regular season to 60 games with a World Series played entirely in Texas and no home games for the LA Dodgers or Tampa Bay. The NFL has forged ahead with its regular season, though with dozens of positive COVID-19 tests. The original plan was for the 67 games of the 2021 NCAA Tournament to be played at 13 sites across the country, starting with the First Four in Dayton, Ohio. Regional sites were set for Minneapolis, Denver, New York City and Memphis, Tennessee. As COVID-19 cases across the country spiked and wreaked havoc on the college football season, it
DUKE players celebrate after the NCAA Final Four college basketball tournament championship game against Wisconsin in Indianapolis, Monday, April 6, 2015. The NCAA announced yesterday it plans to hold the entire 2021 men’s college basketball tournament in one geographic location to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 and is in talks with Indianapolis to be the host city. (AP Photo/David J Phillip) became clear to the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Committee that multiple sites would not work. “We coalesced around a decision that we were not going to be able to host the tournament through 13 different sites,” Kentucky athletic director and committee chair Mitch Barnhart said. “Through the pandemic, it was unreasonable to expect that.” Centralising the tournament will allow a controlled environment with venues, practice facilities, lodging and medical resources all near one another. Indianapolis, the only city the NCAA is currently negotiating with, made the most sense since the Final Four was already scheduled there for April and NCAA headquarters is on the edge
of downtown, walkable from various sites. The NCAA set a November 25 start date for the season as it tries to bounce back after the cancellation of the 2020 NCAA Tournament led to a $375 million shortfall in revenue distributed to member institutions. Schools have scrambled to fill schedules while the coronavirus has ripped through college football, causing the cancellation of more than 60 games. Multiple basketball programmes are currently on pause due to COVID19 and the Ivy League announced last week the cancellation of winter sports, including men’s and women’s basketball. Gavitt said there is no plan to change the start date and the NCAA
Tournament is expected to be played in March and April as scheduled. No determination has been made on whether fans will be allowed, a decision that will also face individual conferences as their tournaments approach in March. “The committee has made a really sound decision here, disappointing as it is to go away from our valued hosts for 13 different sites from First Four through the regionals,” Gavitt said. “Condensing this to one geographic area that we can do it in a more safe and responsible way is where we need to be.” It might be a while before the women’s basketball committee decides what it wants to do with the tournament. Since 2015, the first two rounds have been played on home campuses of the top 16 seeds. Those aren’t known until Selection Monday, so there are no predetermined sites. The women’s Final Four next March is set for San Antonio and the regionals are supposed to be played in Albany, New York; Austin, Texas; Cincinnati; and Spokane, Washington. “Because of the ongoing pandemic, the committee recognises that the tournament may have a different feel,” NCAA vice president of women’s basketball Lynn Holzman said. “The committee intends to maintain a field of 64 teams and a variety contingency plans — including
James Wiseman headlines list of big men in NBA draft By AARON BEARD AP Basketball Writer JAMES Wiseman was considered a possible No. 1 overall NBA draft pick before he ever played in college. Things haven’t changed, even after only three games at the college level. The Memphis freshman headlines the list of big men in Wednesday’s draft and he’s unlikely to fall out of the top three picks. Beyond Wiseman is another potential lottery pick in USC’s Onyeka Okongwu and a first-round prospect in Maryland’s Jalen Smith. • Here’s a look at some of the top prospects: JAMES WISEMAN His college stint with the Tigers, cut short by NCAA eligibility issues, showcased a tantalising glimpse at his skillset. STRENGTHS: The 19-year-old has a mobile 7-foot-1, 247-pound frame that will make him a presence at both ends of the court, particularly on the glass and in protecting the rim. He ran the floor well and displayed a soft touch in the paint at Memphis, though he made highlight reels more for his array of dunking finishes. The nation’s top-ranked recruit had 28 points and 11 rebounds against South Carolina State in his first game and had a double-double (14 points, 12 rebounds) in his last against a ranked Oregon team. Wiseman made 20 of 26 shots (76.9 percent) and swatted nine shots in his three college games. CONCERNS: Wiseman’s last game was a year ago Thursday, so there’s little for any team to study since his days dominating the high school ranks. Memphis ultimately withheld him from competition and the NCAA suspended him for 12 games before he withdrew from school last December, a sequence that cost him nearly a full season of college development. ONYEKA OKONGWU The 19-year-old freshman offers plenty of defensive and rebounding potential. STRENGTHS: The 6-9, 245-pounder arrived as a top-25 national recruit and
immediately became USC’s low-post presence. He averaged a team-best 16.2 points while shooting 61.6 percent from the floor, finishing through contact and at the rim – frequently for dunks. He made 72 percent of his free throws, a promising stat considering he got the line a team-high 143 times. As a defender, he ranked ninth in the country by averaging 2.7 blocks per game, including eight in his first college game against Florida A&M, seven against TCU of the Big 12 and six against Oregon in Pac-12 play. CONCERNS: He’ll have to continue to expand his offensive game overall beyond overpowering opponents down low or around the rim. It’s unclear exactly how much shooting range he will offer to pull defenders outside after he attempted just four college 3-pointers (making one). JALEN SMITH The 20-year-old blossomed as a sophomore for the Terrapins and showed an improving inside-out game. STRENGTHS: The 6-10 Smith was a top-20 recruit in 2018 then thrived in his second year. He bettered his numbers across the board, averaging 15.5 points and 10.5 rebounds while shooting 53.8 percent from the floor. More impressively, he has developed into a capable 3-point shooter, shooting nearly 37 percent last year while making 32 3s in 31 games. He also made 75 percent of his free throws, up from 65.8 percent a year earlier, and had a wingspan better than 7-2 in NBA combine measurements. CONCERNS: Smith helped himself by bulking up about 10 pounds to 225 as a sophomore, but he’ll need to add more strength to handle contact in the paint and physical defenders. He also needs to improve ballhandling and creating his own shot as he develops his game further, with much of his production in college coming off feeds from Maryland’s guards. OTHERS TO WATCH — VERNON CAREY JR.: The Duke freshman lefty has a strong frame (6-10, 270) that allowed him to score inside (17.8),
MARYLAND’s Jalen Smith (25) dunks as Rutgers’ Myles Johnson (15) watches during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, in Piscataway, N.J. Tuesday, March 3, 2020. (AP Photo/John Minchillo) work the glass (8.8) and protect the rim (1.6 blocks). The Associated Press’ Atlantic Coast Conference player of the year could be a late first-round prospect. — ZEKE NNAJI: The 6-11, 240-pound Nnaji was the Pac-12 freshman of the year at Arizona, where he averaged 16.1 points and 8.6 rebounds. He showed fluid athleticism both in running the floor and through his solid midrange game, which could land him in the back half of the first round. — ALEKSEJ POKUSEVSKI: The 18-year-old has been playing on a developmental team in Greece. The 7-footer has playmaking potential with guard skills and passing, though he’ll need to get much stronger (195 pounds) as a first-round prospect. — ISAIAH STEWART: The 6-9, 250-pound Stewart was a physical presence inside during his lone season at Washington, averaging 17 points and 8.8 rebounds while shooting 57 percent. He was second to Kansas big man Udoka Azubuike in wingspan (nearly 7-5) in NBA combine measurements and is likely to go in the back half of the first round.
MEMPHIS’ James Wiseman pauses during a timeout in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Bradley, in Memphis, Tenn. Tuesday, December 3, 2019. (AP Photo/Karen Pulfer Focht)
SOUTHERN California forward Onyeka Okongwu, left, shoots as Arizona forward Ira Lee defends during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Los Angeles Thursday, February 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Mark J Terrill)
reducing the number of first- and second-round sites or bringing the entire tournament to one location — are being considered.” A one-site NCAA Tournament will cause a financial hit to the cities scheduled to host earlyround and regional games. Dayton, the tournament’s tipping off point the past 19 years, generates an estimated $4 million annually from the tournament and Raleigh, North Carolina, typically pulls in about $5 million for early-round games. Bigger cities, particularly those hosting regional sites, earn substantially more. The change to a one-site tournament will cost North Carolina opening-round games for the third time in five years. Greensboro was replaced as a host site in 2017 due to passage of a law limiting protections for people in the LGBT community and had games wiped out last spring by the pandemic. “From a statewide perspective, and then for these last two years, it’s just sort of a feeling of helplessness, because there’s really nothing we could do about it,” said Scott Dupree, executive director of the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance. “And no one’s blaming the NCAA at all. I feel like this is probably – well, this is – the right thing to do. It’s just very unfortunate and it’s disappointing, but I feel like they’re making the right move.”
CHARLES OAKLEY WINS RIGHT TO JURY DECISION ON ASSAULT CLAIM NEW YORK (AP) — A jury can decide whether former New York Knicks star Charles Oakley was ejected from Madison Square Garden with excessive force when he was removed as a spectator to a 2017 game, an appeals court ruled yesterday. The 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated assault and battery claims Oakley made in a lawsuit brought against the team’s owners after his February 2017 removal from a game the Knicks lost to the Los Angeles Clippers. A three-judge panel concluded a jury could decide whether it was improper for security guards to throw Oakley to the ground after Oakley, according to his court papers, slapped their hands away in self-defence as he sought to watch the game. The appeals court, though, rejected Oakley’s claims of defamation and false imprisonment. Oakley was a Knicks fan favourite from 1988 to 1998. He was accused of striking a security guard before he was forcefully removed and arrested outside the stadium. The charges were later dismissed. The power forward sued later the same year for unspecified damages in a defamation lawsuit claiming assault, battery and false imprisonment, contending his treatment was part of team owner James Dolan’s pattern of harassment against him. The lawsuit said Dolan had frequently “disrespected” Oakley by refusing to make eye contact or shake his hand during meetings and by denying him fan appreciation nights and forcing him to pay for his own ticket to games. Oakley blamed Dolan for his ouster from the game, saying he was “treated like a common criminal” after Dolan directed security to “forcibly remove Mr Oakley from the Garden and publicly embarrass him on live television,” the lawsuit said. It said Dolan and Madison Square Garden then launched a defamatory public relations campaign, accusing Oakley of abusing fans and staff, acting inappropriately and struggling with alcoholism.
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THE TRIBUNE
MEDVEDEV WINS WITH UNDERARM SERVE AT ATP FINALS LONDON (AP) — Daniil Medvedev pulled off an underarm serve as he outlasted Alexander Zverev and joined Novak Djokovic as a winner at the ATP Finals on day two yesterday. Medvedev prevailed 6-3, 6-4, while Djokovic cruised past Finals debutant Diego Schwartzman 6-3, 6-2 in an empty O2 Arena. Djokovic and Medvedev meet on Wednesday to secure the group lead. Medvedev led 4-3, 30-30 in the second set when he surprised Zverev with a quick underarm serve. It brought the German to the net and he lost the point when his backhand block volley flew long. “My wide serve was not working as well as I would like and he was returning good,” Medvedev said. “I see that he was five metres behind the baseline and I have the ball close to my racket, so I thought, ‘Go for it.’ “It actually worked. It’s also smart.” Two games later, he served a love game to earn his first win at the ATP Finals in his fourth match going back to last year.
Medvedev went 0-3 in his first Finals, including a loss to Zverev which he avenged after an attritional opening set. Zverev, the 2018 champion, earned a break in the first game but gave it straight back with three double faults. Another double fault by Zverev in the sixth game gave Medvedev a 4-2 lead, and the Russian finished the set with his first ace. A weak forehand into the net cost Zverev the decisive break at 3-3 in the second. Medvedev held with the underarm serve, and he beat Zverev again eight days after winning their Paris Masters final. “This was one of the most (intense matches) I had in my career,” Medvedev said. The top-ranked Djokovic smothered Schwartzman after conceding an early break and, despite no fans inside the 20,000-capacity O2 Arena, he gestured to each section as if to say thanks. “Why I celebrated? Because that’s my celebration and that’s also my gratitude to the court and to this opportunity to be able to compete,” the Serb
DANIIL MEDVEDEV, of Russia, plays a return to Alexander Zverev of Germany during their singles match at the ATP World Finals tournament at the O2 arena in London yesterday. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein) said. “Even though there was no crowd in the stands, I know that there was a lot of people watching it on TV, so that was me sharing that emotion with them.” Djokovic hasn’t lost an opening ATP Finals match since 2007 against David Ferrer. He also has never lost to Schwartzman in
six matches. “It felt like a practice session in a way,” Djokovic said of playing in the empty stadium. “This has been one of the most exciting arenas to play for a tennis player. The atmosphere was always electric and the crowd was always loud and really into matches.”
He has won the elite, season-ending event five times — one short of Roger Federer’s record. Schwartzman qualified for his first ATP Finals by reaching the French Open semifinals and two finals, including at the Italian Open, where he lost to Djokovic. “That start of
ENGLAND CRICKETERS ASSURED SOUTH AFRICA TOUR NOT IN JEOPARDY By STEVE DOUGLAS AP Sports Writer ENGLAND’S cricketers were flying to South Africa yesterday on the back of reassurances from team management that the white-ball tour will take place as scheduled amid boardroom-level infighting among the Proteas that could threaten their participation on the international stage. The leadership of South African cricket is unclear at present after the entire board resigned last month in the wake of an investigation into misconduct and mismanagement at the national federation that resulted in the firing of its CEO. An interim board proposed by the Minister of Sport and the Olympic committee started work but has now been rejected by Cricket South Africa. The International Cricket Council — the sport’s world governing body — hasn’t yet intervened but could, and might even ban South Africa from internationals if it feels there is political interference in CSA.
Jos Buttler, one of the superstars in England’s touring party heading to Cape Town, said CSA’s issues had led to him fearing the tour — the first on South African soil since the coronavirus outbreak — might be cancelled. “You wondered what would be going ahead,” Buttler said in a video call, “but (England director) Ashley Giles got in touch with all the players to say they were confident that the tour will go ahead but that they’ll keep everyone in the loop. “I think everyone is grateful it’s going ahead, especially so close to departure date, as we were really starting to gear up to go. As players, it’s nothing to do with us so we are just looking forward to cricket.” While South Africa hasn’t played a match in any format since March 7, England has played test, ODI and Twenty20 cricket against four countries over the English summer, during which the players got used to living in bio-secure bubbles at hotels attached to grounds.
the match he was not playing his best,” Schwartzman said. “I took the chance at the beginning, but then that break back from him ... I did too many mistakes.” Schwartzman is the first South American to play singles at the ATP Finals since 2013 and another Argentine, Juan Martin del Potro. The ATP Finals move to Turin, Italy, next year, after 12 years in London. The players’ hotel is a short walk away, but health protocols require they are driven to and from the venue. The tournament is using electronic line calling for the first time. Players can’t challenge whether a ball was in or out, but they can request a video review for other disputed situations, such as double bounces. On Sunday, Dominic Thiem outlasted Stefanos Tsitsipas in a rematch of the 2019 final, beating the defending champion 7-6 (5), 4-6, 6-3, and Rafael Nadal topped newcomer Andrey Rublev 6-3, 6-4. Djokovic on Sunday was presented with a trophy for finishing the year with the No. 1 ranking for a recordequalling sixth time.
ENGLAND’s wicketkeeper Jos Buttler dives to take the catch to dismiss Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi during the third cricket Test match between England and Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, England, on Sunday, August 23. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
Buttler found that period particularly challenging — “it’s a lot tougher to escape the game … to have real differentials between the game and your relax and recovery time,” he said, whereas in the recent edition of the IPL, he had his wife and young daughter with him in the United Arab Emirates. “If you’re feeling under pressure or not quite feeling yourself, the key is to have the confidence to open up and talk about it,” Buttler said. “We all go through it at different stages, where you feel a bit homesick or claustrophobic, when you
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can’t get out and about like you’d usually like to. So we just want to make sure everyone is aware of that and one thing the ECB is excellent at is looking after the players’ mental well-being.” England players face 10 days of quarantine on arrival in South Africa. England’s white-ball priority will be on Twenty20 cricket in the coming months as selectors look to nail down a regular starting XI ahead of back-to-back World Cups in the shortest format, in 2021 and ‘22. It helps to explain why Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer — arguably
England’s two leading limited-overs players, along with Buttler — will go home from South Africa after the three-match T20 series from November 27 to December 1, thereby missing the three-match one-day international series from December 4-9. Buttler, England’s limited-overs vice captain, was given the option of missing part of the tour. “Having my family with me the whole time in the IPL has obviously been a huge plus for me and my mental well-being, the time spent with them,” he said. “And with it still being a
relatively short tour with this three extra ODIs, I was very keen to go and play. I really miss playing ODI cricket. Since (winning) the World Cup (in 2019), I have only played three games so I’m really looking forward to getting back amongst that team.” Buttler wants England’s T20 side to follow the blueprint of the World Cup-winning ODI team, increasing the significance of the upcoming games against South Africa. “It’s about gaining role clarity in the side and really trying to nail down your XI and looking forward to that World Cup,” he said. “One thing we had in the 50-over side was the team nearly picked itself by the end of that cycle and that’s a great place to be as a side. “It gives a lot of confidence that guys are playing a lot of games with each other, so heading into a tournament in high-pressure situations, you are very familiar with your own role and what you expect of your teammates.”
AUSTRALIAN SWIMMER SHAYNA JACK BANNED TWO YEARS IN DOPING CASE LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — Australian swimmer Shayna Jack was banned for two years yesterday for accidental doping, with her sanction expiring days before the start of the Tokyo Olympics. The Court of Arbitration for Sport said its judge decided “Jack did not intentionally ingest ligandrol and considered that she had discharged her onus of proving that the anti-doping rule violation was not intentional.” Jack tested positive for the anabolic agent ahead of the 2019 world championships. An Australian sports tribunal previously recommended a four-year ban before CAS took on the case. “INNOCENT,” Jack wrote in a post on her Instagram account. “I have proven that I have NOT ever cheated, nor used prohibited substances intentionally or knowingly. ... Therefore, I accept this decision with a positive attitude and with gratitude that my career as a swimmer will resume next year.” An appeal is now possible to a separate CAS panel. The World Anti-Doping Agency can choose to file a case seeking a longer ban. The 22-year-old swimmer, a four-time medallist
SHAYNA JACK (AP) in relays at the 2017 world championships, cannot compete through July 11, 2021. The Tokyo Olympics open less than two weeks later. Jack denied doping and said the positive test was caused by a contaminated supplement. The burden of proof is on athletes in anti-doping cases to show exactly how and when any contamination happened. Jack tested positive in an out-of-competition test in June 2019. The freestyle specialist was suspended from the Australian team and sent home from its pre-worlds training camp in Japan. At the time, the Australian team said the case was “bitterly disappointing and embarrassing.” Australian swimming was criticised when, days after
the Jack case was revealed, freestyle swimmer Mack Horton refused to share the world championship podium with Sun Yang because of his concern about doping allegations. The Chinese swimmer was banned for eight years by CAS in February. Jack yesterday said she “never doubted myself for a minute throughout this ordeal and I have never allowed my integrity to be compromised.” Swimming Australia issued a statement early Tuesday to welcome the CAS verdict, and also to call for empathy for the athlete. “The approach to antidoping is deliberately strong and needs to be ... we have a zero tolerance approach to doping and always will,” Swimming Australia said. “However, this does not mean that we cannot demonstrate care and empathy for young people who are part of our community, who are thrust into a complex system that can be overwhelming, often confusing and confronting. “Shayna is a young and driven athlete and we hope the outcome of the hearing enables her to move forward after a difficult period.”
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Tuesday, November 17, 2020, PAGE 15
Bach: Olympic ‘participants’ encouraged to get vaccine By STEPHEN WADE AP Sports Writer TOKYO (AP) — Olympic “participants” and fans arriving for next year’s postponed Tokyo Games will be encouraged to be vaccinated to protect the Japanese public, IOC President Thomas Bach said yesterday. Bach said it won’t be mandatory, but he left no doubt it will be strongly pushed. Bach campaigned across Tokyo yesterday, his first visit to Japan since the Olympics were postponed almost eight months ago amid the coronavirus pandemic. He met support at all stops; from Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and Yoshiro Mori, the head of the local organising committee and also a former prime minister. “In order to protect the Japanese people and out of respect for the Japanese people, the IOC will undertake great effort so that as many (people) as possible — Olympic participants and visitors will arrive here (with a) vaccine, if by then a
vaccine is available,” Bach said after talks with Suga. “We want to convince as many foreign participants as possible to accept a vaccine,” Bach added later after meeting with Mori. “This makes us all very confident that we can have spectators in the Olympic stadia next year and that spectators will enjoy a safe environment.” Bach lauded new advances in rapid testing as a boost to hold the games. He said Olympic participants would not be a priority for a vaccine ahead of “nurses and doctors and people who keep our society alive.” And he repeated several times that next year’s Olympics would be the “light at the end of this dark tunnel.” Bach suggested the IOC would cover at least some of the costs of vaccination. But he said he did not yet know how much the oneyear delay would cost. Reports in Japan estimate it will be $2 billion to $3 billion. “This will take time,” he said. “It’s impossible now to have a sound figure.” The most pointed question at a news conference with Bach went to Mori concerning a reported $1
million payment from the Tokyo bid committee — which landed the Olympics in 2013 — to the Jigoro Kano Memorial International Sports Institute. Mori heads the body. Sitting next to Bach, Mori said he did not know about the body’s finances. “That is not something that I directly oversee,” he replied. French authorities have been investigating a bribery scandal linked to Tokyo’s winning bid. Last year, Japanese Olympic Committee president Tsunekazu Takeda was forced to resign after he acknowledged signing off on a $2 million payment to a consulting company based in Singapore. The consultant is believed to have channelled money to influence IOC votes. Takeda denied any wrongdoing. Monday was the first of two days of non-stop meetings for Bach in Tokyo; photo opportunities and meetings with politicians and organisers aimed at persuading a sceptical Japanese public that it’s safe to hold the Olympics during a pandemic. The Olympics are scheduled to open on July 23,
2021, and Bach said he hoped to have a “reasonable number” of spectators at the venues. How many and from where is a decision that is still down the road. A possible vaccine was announced last week by Pfizer Inc., which could greatly help the IOC and local organisers stage the Olympics. There have also been advances in rapid testing. All of this is taking place as cases around the world surge heading into the Northern Hemisphere winter. Bach travelled to Tokyo on a chartered flight. He called off a trip last month to South Korea because of the virus’ spread in Europe. Some athletes and fans from abroad may oppose any suggestion to take the vaccine, which Bach has hinted previously could be key for Olympic “solidarity.” Japan has held baseball games recently with nearcapacity crowds of 30,000 fans at some stadiums. It has also held an exhibition gymnastics meet with 22 athletes entering from abroad, attended by several thousand fans.
JAPAN’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, right, greets International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach during their meeting in Tokyo yesterday. (Kazuhiro Nogi/Pool Photo via AP)
JAPAN’s former prime minister, Shinzo Abe, left, and Thomas Bach bump elbows after a ceremony to present the Olympic Order to Abe at Japan Olympic Museum in Tokyo yesterday. (Kim Kyung-hoon/Pool Photo via AP) Japan has been largely Olympic and Paralympic spared during the pandemic athletes, and tens of thouwith about 1,900 deaths sands of coaches, officials, attributed to COVID-19. It judges, VIPs, sponsors, has also sealed off its bor- media and broadcasters ders until recently, and has entering Japan. The IOC gets 73 percent almost 100 percent maskof its income from telwearing by the public. Several polls have evision, which is a critical shown the Japanese public factor in its drive to hold is ambivalent about the the Olympics. American network NBC games, facing larger concerns like a slumping pays well over $1 billion for every Olympics. Costs are economy. “Our determination is to also an issue with the Japarealise the Tokyo Games nese public. A government next summer as proof that audit report last year said humanity has defeated the the bill for preparing the Olympics could reach $25 virus,” Suga said. The Olympics and Para- billion. All but $5.6 billion lympics involve 15,400 is public money.
MATCHDAY: GERMANY NEEDS DRAW AGAINST SPAIN TO ADVANCE By The Associated Press A LOOK at what’s happening around European soccer today: SPAIN vs. GERMANY Germany needs only a draw against Spain in their final Nations League Group 4 game to be sure of finishing top. However, Joachim Löw’s side is still not the finished article and could be in for a rude surprise. Löw has been tinkering with new call-ups
and looking for players beyond his established Bayern Munich block but has been frustrated by stagnant play and uninspired performances. The fans’ apathy seems to be affecting the players on the pitch. Team manager Oliver Bierhoff said a “dark cloud” hung over the German team and only convincing performances could win back fans’ trust. The focus is on preparing for the postponed European
Championship next year, with Germany looking far from capable of winning it. Leon Goretzka’s driving force carried Germany to a 3-1 win over coronavirus-weakened Ukraine on Saturday, but it was another lacklustre showing. Spain was held to a surprise 1-1 draw with Switzerland, and captain Sergio Ramos will be keen to atone for missing two penalties in that game when he leads his team out in his hometown Seville.
CROATIA vs. PORTUGAL Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal is out of contention in Group 3 after losing to France 1-0 at home, while Croatia is in danger of being demoted if it doesn’t get a good result against the defending champions. Ronaldo is seven goals shy of the men’s national team record held by former Iran striker Ali Daei with his 109.
FRANCE vs. SWEDEN Already qualified for next year’s Final Four following its 1-0 win at Portugal, France will likely continue to rotate after coach Didier Deschamps started 21 different players over the past two matches. The reigning world champion will be without the suspended N’Golo Kante while PSG striker Kylian Mbappe is expected to return.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2020
Ayton poster boy By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
B
ahamian Deandre Ayton, preparing for his third season in the National Basketball Association (NBA), was the poster boy for the upstart Phoenix Suns as they unveiled their new Nike City Edition uniforms. Ayton, selected as the first pick of the 2018 draft out of Arizona State University, displayed the new jersey that pays homage not just to the city of Phoenix, but the entire metro area. Across the chest of the new jersey design reads “The Valley.” The Suns have been one of the Valley’s few professional sports teams to keep Phoenix in their name, while Cardinals, Coyotes and Diamondbacks market themselves as “Arizona” teams. The Suns are coming off an impressive showing in the bubble this summer in Orlando, Florida to complete the abbreviated 2019 season that was halted because of the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in March. Following a great 8-0 run in the seeding games in Orlando where they fell short of advancing to the playoffs, the Suns are hoping to make a statement both on and off the court this season as they unveil their ‘City Edition’ uniforms, which celebrate the Arizona region. The reveal of new Nike Inc. (NYSE: NKE) uniforms has become a tradition among NBA teams and fans over the past
DEANDRE AYTON, getting in shape for his third season in the National Basketball Association (NBA), was the poster boy for the upstart Phoenix Suns as they unveiled their new Nike City Edition uniforms. few years and the Suns uniforms emphasize their motto that “We support The Valley. We play for The Valley. Now, we are repping The Valley.” The ever-changing rotation of uniforms has allowed teams to get more creative in their designs, as well as sell more merchandise. Fans can start buying the new
Suns jerseys on December 3, and they can preorder them now on the team’s website. For the third season in a row, the Phoenix Suns jerseys will include a patch of the logo of PayPal Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: PYPL). In 2018, the Suns partnered with PayPal on a deal that put the logo of the digital payment
company on the team’s uniforms and its technology throughout the Suns fan experience. PayPal is headquartered in San Jose, California, but has significant operations and employment in the Phoenix area. The deal with PayPal was recognised by the
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SEE PAGE 12
VIKINGS BEAT BEARS 19-13 By ANDREW SELIGMAN AP Sports Writer CHICAGO (AP) — Kirk Cousins threw for 292 yards and two touchdowns, and the Minnesota Vikings overcame a 104-yard kickoff return by Chicago’s Cordarrelle Patterson to beat the Bears 19-13 last night. Cousins won for the first time in 10 career Monday night starts. He hit Adam Thielen with a 6-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter to put Minnesota ahead 19-13, and the Vikings (4-5) hung on for their third straight win. They also snapped a four-game losing streak against Chicago (5-5). Bears quarterback Nick Foles got taken from the field on a cart in the game’s final minute. He landed on his right, throwing shoulder when he was slammed to the ground by Minnesota’s Ifeadi Odenigbo as he threw the ball away. Patterson joined Josh Cribbs and Leon Washington as the only players with eight kick returns for touchdowns when he ran back the opening kickoff of the second half to give Chicago a 13-7 lead. It was the longest kickoff return in franchise history, surpassing Gale Sayers’ 103-yarder against Pittsburgh September 17, 1967. Still, the Bears lost their fourth in a row, matching their longest skid since coach Matt Nagy was hired in 2018. Cousins completed 25 of 36 passes. He threw two touchdowns to Thielen, who made a one-handed grab on a firstquarter score.