01062025 NEWS AND SPORT

90-DAY PLAN UNVEILED BY NEW TOP COP

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

NEWLY appointed Commissioner of Police

Shanta Knowles has pledged immediate initiatives for the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), including mandatory ethics training, body-worn cameras by all frontline officers, and a scholarship fund to facilitate continued education for officers.

She said these initiatives, announced as part of her first 90-day plan, aim to modernise the force, enhance accountability, and rebuild public trust at a time of heightened scrutiny following major scandals. Her comments came during a ceremony where she officially took charge of the police force following Clayton Fernander’s tenure.

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net

FREE National Movement leader

Michael Pintard said he wrote to Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, expressing strong opposition to his intention to appoint Anthony Rolle as deputy commissioner of police. Despite his objection, Mr Rolle and Kirkwood Andrews were sworn in as deputy commissioners at Government House on Sunday.

A HEARTBREAKING tragedy unfolded in Bimini on January 4, 2025, as 15-year-old Anthorn Jaheim Johnson lost his life in a car accident that left his family and the close-knit community in shock. Anthorn, known affectionately as “Jahjah”, was

driving north along King’s Highway in Bailey Town

around midnight when he lost control of a silver Mitsubishi Colt. The car collided with a flatbed truck parked outside a private business. Despite the efforts of first responders, Anthorn was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers from the Traffic Division in Grand Bahama are conducting

FANCY DANCERS MISS OUT AFTER TITLE REVERSAL

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

THE Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence reversed the results in the 2024 Boxing Day Parade’s Category B after a protest by the group Colours, prompting the Fancy Dancers to consider legal action.

SCENES from the swearing-in ceremony for new Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles, who is pictured above inspecting officers. For more pictures, see pages 12-13. Photos: Nikia Charlton

90-day plan unveiled by new top cop

Commissioner Knowles said within her first three months, she plans to mandate ethics and conduct training sessions for all officers and reserves, focusing on issues such as justifiable cause, harm reduction, and the abuse of power. She also committed to making the activation of body-worn cameras a requirement for all frontline officers, ensuring public interactions are thoroughly documented.

She introduced the Shanta Knowles Scholarship Fund, which financially supports officers pursuing higher education in law enforcement and related fields. The fund, she said, has already received its initial contributions, underscoring her commitment to professional development within the RBPF.

“This scholarship fund will be available to all officers desirous of continuing their education in disciplines of law enforcement service,” she said.

Commissioner Knowles said she aims to transition the RBPF into a “learning organisation”, offering continuous training in leadership, communication, crime analysis, and advanced technology

integration. She said these efforts are designed to ensure the force remains adaptable to the evolving crime landscape.

“This direction will ensure that your police force remains on the cutting edge of the ever-changing crime landscape,” she said.

In July 2024, Michael Johnson, then head of the Criminal Investigation Department, was placed on garden leave following the release of voice notes that purported to capture an illegal quid pro quo arrangement. Further eroding public confidence, in December 2024, the US Department of Justice indicted several Bahamian officials, including members of the RBPF, for their roles in a large-scale cocaine smuggling operation.

Recognising the need to rebuild public trust, Commissioner Knowles pledged to collaborate closely with communities. Drawing from her upbringing in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, she credited her background with instilling values of resilience and engagement.

“This is our Bahamas. We are your police force, and it will take all of us working together to create a better Bahama land,” she said.

Acknowledging that reform is a gradual process, the

commissioner stressed the importance of addressing the force’s long-standing challenges.

“The missteps of the force did not start overnight and surely cannot be corrected overnight, but we are an institution that stands the test of time,” she said, expressing confidence in the RBPF’s ability to overcome obstacles.

Her plan received high praise from Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, who highlighted her qualifications and her focus on engagement and community rebuilding.

“This is a pivotal moment for our country, and we need a leader who understands that fighting crime is about more than enforcement — it’s about engagement, rebuilding communities, and restoring faith in our institutions,” Mr Davis said.

Commissioner Knowles also reflected on the significance of her journey. She previously served as the first female commander of the Criminal Investigations Department and Assistant Commissioner for Northern Bahamas.

During her address, she paid homage to the trailblazing policewomen who paved the way for her appointment. She highlighted the first female

FNM LEADER OPPOSES CHOICE OF DEPUTY COMMISSIONER

from page one from page one

Before their promotions, Mr Rolle served as an assistant commissioner of police, while Mr Andrews held the position of senior assistant commissioner.

As part of his constitutional requirement to consult the opposition leader on such appointments, Mr Davis told Mr Pintard about his choices before the men were appointed.

Mr Pintard said he told Mr Davis he did not oppose Mr Andrews’s appointment as senior deputy commissioner, just as he did not oppose Shanta Knowles’ appointment as commissioner.

“ASP Rolle is not regarded as what is needed at this critical juncture to spearhead the restitution of the reputation of the Royal Bahamas Police Force,” he told The Tribune. “His appointment, we warned the prime minister in our response, may very well undermine the government’s stated goal of reforming the organistion and furthermore, and you can see by the CV that they provided, he does not possess the skillset and breadth of experience needed to devise and implement a strategic policing plan, which is desperately needed at this time.”

police squad of 1964, which included Anita BethelWilliams, Theresa Baker, Norma Clarke, Alsaida McFall, Hildred McClain, and Esther Stubbs, describing them as pioneers who “trampled the

initial barriers for women in policing.”

She also recognised other trailblazers, including Juanita Colebrook, the first female Assistant Commissioner of Police in 2006, and Ismella Davis-Delancy, the

first female Deputy Commissioner in 2020.

“It is an exciting time for female police officers. It took us over 60 years to get here, but today, we celebrate together,” she said.

“The law does not call for two deputy commissioners,” he said, adding that Mr Davis did not respond with a rebuttal of his concerns.

On Saturday, the Office of the Prime Minister released a statement condemning Mr Pintard’s commentary about Mr Rolle as “irresponsible”.

Mr Davis said Mr Pintard’s comments were “unfounded and unhelpful”. He described Mr Rolle as a “leader who has dedicated decades of service to protecting our communities, often at great personal sacrifices”.

Mr Pintard said he disagrees with the prime minister’s decision to appoint more than one deputy commissioner of police, citing the financial constraints the country faces and the top-heavy nature of the police force.

THE SWEARING-in of Kirkwood Andrews, left, and Anthony Andrews as deputy commissioners.

Photos: Dante Carrer/ Tribune Staff

POLICE Commissioner Shanta Knowles during the swearing-in ceremony of Kirkwood Andrews and Ashley Rolle as Deputy Commissioner of Police at Government House on January 4.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

THE PARADE at the swearing-in ceremony. Photo: Nikia Charlton

Fancy Dancers miss out after title reversal

from page one

Initially declared winners, the Fancy Dancers lost their title to Colours after an appeal decision that came five days after what the Fancy Dancers say was the stipulated 96-hour appeal window.

“We found out on social media — that’s when we called in,” said former Fancy Dancers chairman Carlos Pyfrom. “They never reached out to us before that. It was only after the news broke that we received a letter from them. Rules are put in place for everybody. The Valley Boys had to abide by the rules. Why do Colours not have to abide by the rules?”

Mr Pyfrom described the decision as a breach of established guidelines, alleging that the JCNP’s actions showed partiality. He said the group is consulting with legal counsel and is prepared to present evidence to challenge the ruling.

“This does not make sense,” he said. “If you could make changes for Colours, why couldn’t you make changes for other groups? Why are some being allowed to break the rules while others are held accountable?”

The Fancy Dancers have also accused Colours leader Chris Justilien of a conflict of interest, claiming he

influenced the results by participating in the training of judges. “How,” said Mr Pyfrom, “can you allow someone who is actively involved in a competing group to train judges? That should never happen.”

He denied allegations from Colours that Fancy Dancers’ costumes failed to meet required standards, asserting that all their costumes were fully pasted. He countered by accusing Colours of having costumes that were also not up to standard, adding that Mr Justilien was “no saint” when it came to following the rules.

Mr Justilien expressed dissatisfaction with the judging process, even after his group’s victory. He criticised the JCNP for failing to enforce its own rules consistently.

“We shouldn’t have to be fighting over the results of any parade if we have the proper procedures in place,” he said. “It leaves a lot to be desired when things are so obvious. We have many groups not covering the rules set by the JCNP, and repeatedly over the years, they are not disqualified, and they are not penalised for not following the rules.”

Mr Justilien called for significant reforms to Junkanoo judging, advocating for professional judges with expertise in music, dance, and costume construction.

“Some time ago, I suggested and implemented a judging system that used professional persons. That was done away with because my group didn’t win. That is not how it’s supposed to work,” he said. “If we had professional

musicians, dancers, and people who understand the intricacies of our craft, we could avoid these issues.”

Both groups criticised the current judging system for alleged bias and favouritism.

“This whole thing is

about politics and favouritism. It is not about Junkanoo or the rules anymore,” Mr Pyfrom said. Mr Justilien also urged participants to remain civil amid heated public exchanges between supporters of both groups.

“We must keep it friendly. We must keep it clean,” he said. “If we continually forgive slackness and breaking of the rules, then we will develop a society that is lawless. Junkanoo deserves better than this.”

RBDF SHIP RETURNS FROM HAITI DEPLOYMENT FOR REPAIRS

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

A ROYAL Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) vessel will be redeployed to patrol offshore areas near Haiti early this week after returning to The Bahamas for repairs due to defects encountered during its mission, Commodore Raymond King said yesterday. Speaking on the sidelines of the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s annual church service, Commodore King said: “We look forward to getting her back into her area of operation. She will complete a sixweek tour to be replaced by HMBS now so on, the rotation will continue.”

The vessel, which was

initially deployed in late December, returned for maintenance yesterday after encountering challenges.

While Commodore King declined to specify details regarding reports of air conditioning and plumbing issues, he said: “Suffice to say that HMBS Lawrence Major would have arrived in Great Inagua this (Sunday) morning, with all of the spares that we need to get those systems operational and to get that vessel out to sea.”

He also acknowledged the ageing fleet’s challenges, noting that the 60-metre vessels, acquired in 1998, have surpassed their prime operational lifespan.

“And so, these breakdowns and these corrective

maintenance periods will increase as a vessel continue to age, but we continue to do our best keeping those platforms operations with the hopes of getting replacement vessels in the future,” he said.

National Security Minister Wayne Munroe previously told The Tribune that the HMBS Bahamas and HMBS Nassau would each carry a crew of about 60, with crews rotating during missions to ensure sustained patrols.

Their deployment came six defence force officers were deployed to Haiti in October as part of an advance team for the mission.

Yesterday, Commodore King said he has been in

constant contact with the group, which has been advised to move in pairs and maintain their security posture.

“There are no concerns,” he said. “We have responded, but I look forward to getting 60-meter craft back into our area of operation as quickly as possible.”

The government has committed 150 officers to the multinational effort to address Haiti’s ongoing instability and gang-related issues.

Kenya is leading the mission but has struggled to rebuff the gangs, fueling concerns about increased illegal migration activity.

Yesterday, Commodore Raymond King warned that the RBDF is anticipating an uptick in illegal migration to The Bahamas due to expected policy changes in the US.

He said there were few migrant interceptions and detections by defence force officers last year, attributing the decline in migration flows to key policies implemented by the Biden administration in the United States.

However, he

cautioned that these policies are expected to be rescinded by the incoming Trump administration, which could lead to an increase in migrant activity.

“We are vigilant. We are poised because we anticipate some increase in migration back towards The Bahamas generally.”

Death Notice For Naomi Darling Moss

died at the hospital in Orlando, Florida on Monday, December 30, 2024.

She is survived by her children: David Moss, Daisy Albury, Lennix Moss, Ricardo Moxey, Kevin Brown and Natasha Brown and other relatives and friends.

A FANCY Dancers member during the Boxing Day parade.

Photo: Nikia Charlton

COMMODORE RAYMOND KING

Grandmother’s grief after boy, 15, killed in accident

from page one

investigations into the crash.

“A friend of my daughter called another one of my daughters and told us he got in an accident and we must come,” said Pamela Louis, Anthorn’s grandmother.

“So, my daughter came into the room and said, JJ was in an accident. Everybody just ran out.”

Anthorn’s mother was overwhelmed by the sight of the wreckage at the scene.

“She saw the front of the car and started screaming,”

Ms Louis said. “The only thing I could do was hold my head and scream too. It was so bad.”

A family member tried to call out to Anthorn, hoping for a response.

“Someone at the scene said to try to talk to him, so she kept calling his name,”

Ms Louis explained. “But when she got closer, she didn’t like what she saw and had to turn away.”

Anthorn’s mother, now facing the unimaginable loss of her youngest son, is leaning on her family for strength.

“She’s trying her best to stay strong for her other three children, but it’s hard,” Ms Louis said. “Anthorn was her last boy.”

Anthorn, a former student of Gateway Christian Academy in Bimini who recently transferred to a school in Freeport, was remembered by his grandmother as a kind and loving boy.

“He had a smile to die for,” Ms Louis said. “Everybody loved him, even the older guys in the community. Yesterday, so many of his young friends came to the house. I didn’t realise how many lives he touched.”

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through both Bimini and Freeport, where Anthorn was staying with a cousin while attending school.

His father, who lives in Freeport, was devastated when he learned of the accident.

“When I told him, he couldn’t believe it,” Ms Louis said. “He kept asking, ‘Is he responding?’ I had to tell him, ‘No, he’s not responding.’ He prayed all night, hoping for a miracle.”

Anthorn’s passion for fishing and his faith were cornerstones of his life, according to his grandmother.

“He loved fishing,” Ms Louis said. “He’d always say, ‘Grammy, I’m going fishing, and I’ll bring you some fish.’ And he loved church. He was always in church, always wanting to go.”

The family has found solace in the support of the community and their faith.

“The love and support from our church family has been overwhelming,” Ms Louis said. “We’re pulling our strength from them. I thank God for the 15 years we had

with him. It hurts so bad, but I thank God.” In the aftermath of the 15-year-old boy’s tragic accident, social media platforms have seen a mix of condolences and speculation about the circumstances surrounding his death.

Several commenters raised questions on social media about how a juvenile came to be driving, with some questioning whether he had been given permission to drive or if he held a valid licence.

MOTHER HURT IN CRASH THAT KILLED HER CHILD SEEKS HELP

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune Chief Reporter

THE family of a grieving mother, who was seriously injured in a fatal three-car collision in Grand Bahama that claimed the life of her one-year-old son, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $75,000 for her medical expenses and recovery.

Kiante Garvey-Seymour

and her son, Kengdom, were travelling on Queen’s Highway in West Grand Bahama on New Year’s Day when the accident occurred. Both sustained severe injuries and were rushed to hospital, but only Ms Seymour survived. She remains hospitalised with critical injuries, including a broken hip and pelvis. In a statement on the GoFundMe page, the family revealed that Ms Seymour

had completed her nursing assistant programme just a week before the accident and was set to begin her career on Monday.

“She was excited when we spoke on December 31st, and I saw my nephew on that video call for the last time,” her sister, who organised the fundraiser, wrote.

“Our family could never have imagined this tragedy, and we greatly mourn the loss of a beautiful baby

HIGH COMMISSION HOSTS LONDON CAROL SERVICE

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune

Reporter

Freeport

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE High Commission of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas hosted its annual carol service at the historic Grosvenor Chapel in Mayfair on December 14. This tradition featured a line-up of Bahamian talent, including soprano JoAnn Deveaux-Callender, tenors Melvin Claridge and Wilfred Adderley, bass-baritone Franz Hepburn, and pianist Dr Dion Cunningham.

The service, initiated by Mr Hepburn in 1996, follows the traditional Nine Lessons and Carols format, but with a Bahamian twist, incorporating Bahamian poetry and songs alongside the traditional elements.

Three Bahamian poems were delivered with pride to highlight the culture of the islands. The musical programme featured Ms DeveauxCallender, a renowned Bahamian soprano with a storied career, who performed Clement Bethel’s Praise. However, due to travel fatigue and a change in climate, she was unable to continue with her remaining solos. Mr Hepburn stepped in, performing a medley of Bahamian classics, including Where You Going to Go Next Year, Once Is Not Enough, and Da Mail.

The event also highlighted Dr Dion Cunningham, a professor of music at the University of The Bahamas, who performed two piano solos and accompanied other singers. Tenors Melvin Claridge and Wilfred Adderley added their voices to the evening. Mr Adderley, based in London, works with the Commonwealth Secretariat, while Mr Claridge, a lawyer in the UK, previously served with the Bahamas High Commission.

Paul Gomez, Bahamas High Commissioner to the UK, addressed attendees, thanking them for their support and expressing gratitude to Reverend Stephen Coleman for hosting the service at the historic Anglican chapel, which dates back to the 1730s.

Reflecting on the event’s legacy, Mr Gomez acknowledged that Franz Hepburn, then with the Ministry of Tourism in London, organised the first service in 1996. The event also underscored the commission’s efforts to connect the Bahamian diaspora.

“The carol service provides a taste of home, with Bahamian food and drink at the reception,”

Mr Hepburn said. “It’s an opportunity for students, professionals, and Friends of The Bahamas to come together and celebrate.”

Mr Gomez added: “Christmas is a time for reflection and compassion. As we celebrate, let us remember those less fortunate. This year has been significant for the Bahamas High Commission, and we look forward to continuing to raise our profile and foster connections in 2025.”

The Bahamas High Commission actively engaged in significant initiatives in 2024, according to Mr Gomez. “We travelled to the Cambridge University to help formulate on behalf of the Commonwealth Secretariat what will be a significant financial framework called Compass, which is designed to provide funding directly to small island development states like The Bahamas,” he said.

The commission also celebrated the legacy of prominent Bahamian lawyer Algernon Francis Adderley, also known as AF Adderley, at Cambridge, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing

the profile of the Adderley Society. The commission also undertook diplomatic visits to Samoa and engaged with various legal and academic institutions in the UK.

Looking ahead to 2025, the High Commission has plans to further its impact.

Following the service, a reception at the Bahamas High Commission provided attendees with a warm and festive conclusion to an evening that seamlessly blended Bahamian culture with a cherished British tradition.

boy who was a grandchild, a cousin, a nephew, a son, and a blessing to everyone who met him in the short life he lived.”

The family said all funds raised would go towards surgery and the physical therapy needed for Ms Seymour’s recovery.

“There’s a long road ahead, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally,” the post said.

In an emotional interview

with The Tribune last week, Kengdom’s grandmother, April Garvey, described him as a sweet and loving child who brought joy to everyone around him.

Mrs Garvey said the emotional toll of his death has been overwhelming for the family, particularly for Kengdom’s mother. “It is difficult on her because physically she is dealing with pain and everything, and she is also

dealing with the loss of her baby,” Mrs Garvey said.

Mrs Garvey also criticised the premature posting of the tragedy on social media, noting that some family members learned of Kengdom’s death online before the family had a chance to notify everyone. She said this added to their pain.

Kengdom’s death marked the first traffic fatality for Grand Bahama and the nation’s second for 2025.

ANTHORN JAHEIM JOHNSON

THE CONCERT hosted by the High Commission in London.

The Tribune Limited

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LEON E. H. DUPUCH, Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

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Publisher/Editor 1972-

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Why the wait for committee?

HOW on earth does it take so long to get the Human Rights Committee into action?

It was in April 2023 that the resolution to establish the committee was passed.

Soon after, Attorney General Ryan Pinder trooped off to Geneva to boast of the country’s human rights record.

Some cynics might think the committee was set up just so we could tell Geneva that it was set up.

The whole of the rest of 2023 went by without anyone actually on the committee.

The whole of 2024 went by without the committee actually meeting.

If anyone thought the committee being set up was an act of lip service, there was little to discourage the idea.

In theory, it is there to strengthen protections and ensure we meet global standards – but that isn’t going to happen if the committee does not even meet, let alone consider things within its remit.

There is plenty for the committee to be working on.

As activist group Human Rights Bahamas points out there are “violations of labour and workplace rights; police brutality; arbitrary arrests and detentions; and inhumane prison conditions, among many others”.

The Tribune can attest to that – we have reported on stories in many such cases.

Issues of alleged police brutality have been in the spotlight many times – with some complaints to the police having not been dealt with by the force in time and the period to respond having expired.

Reportedly, the committee will finally meet … perhaps by the end of this

month. Perhaps. It does little to inspire confidence, especially when one sees a similar lack of action over at the Freedom of Information Commission. There at least there is a commissioner, albeit a lack of staff, equipment, training or budget to cover any of the above.

So when we now also hear of Mr Pinder saying that the Office of the Ombudsman will be established in the first quarter of this year, one is tempted to ask not just when it will be established but when it will be functioning, because goodness knows the Human Rights Committee has taken long enough.

The Ombudsman is also expected to stand up on behalf of the people – in this case to boost accountability within government institutions.

The question is, how much desire is there to truly deliver accountability?

After all, there have been promises of probes within government before that seem to have gone nowhere. Remember the formation of a commission to review decisions at the Department of Immigration prompted by a controversy involving then Immigration Minister Keith Bell? There has been little sign of that. The last we heard of that was current minister Alfred Sears saying that the commission would be making its report “in due course”. The commission was announced in October 2023. There goes another year without action.

So while we welcome Mr Pinder’s words on the Ombudsman, we would note that words only go so far. And until we see action – in both that and other areas that remain outstanding – words are all they will remain.

Protect the vulnerable

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Dear Honorable Leaders of The Bahamas,

AS WE step into 2025, the cries of the Bahamian people grow louder, imploring you to take a hard look at the state of our nation. While every citizen has a role to play in fostering a better society, it is incumbent upon our leaders to heed the people’s call, fulfill their promises, and take decisive action to rectify the issues that plague our beloved Bahamas.

The reports of alleged gross corruption within many organisations and escalating crime rates are deeply troubling. Proverbs 29:4 reminds us, “By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down.” Corruption not only erodes trust in governance but also undermines the fabric of our society, leaving a legacy of instability

and despair for future generations. The time for mere rhetoric is over. The time for action is now.

Among our greatest concerns is the urgent need to protect the most vulnerable among us—our women and children. Reports of violence and abuse continue to rise, yet the support systems in place remain insufficient. It is imperative that the government prioritises legislation and policies that safeguard their rights and provide adequate resources for their protection and empowerment. The cries of these innocents must not fall on deaf ears. Furthermore, non-profit organisations that dedicate their efforts to serving women and children are doing the work that often fills the gaps left by public systems. These organisations are lifelines, yet many struggle due to insufficient funding. Empowering and increasing financial support

Economic inequality

EDITOR, The Tribune.

DESPITE the frequent pledge by the Prime Minister about alleviating structural economic inequality and unfairness in the Bahamian economy brought about by certain entrenched oligopolies, his administration has been loudly and curiously silent on addressing the structural economic inequities and unfairness brought about by the oligopoly that exist in the domestic gaming sector.

for these entities is not a luxury but a necessity. Their success is a direct investment in the future of The Bahamas.

As James Baldwin wisely stated, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” Our leaders must face these issues head-on with courage and integrity. The citizens of The Bahamas are watching, and we demand accountability, transparency, and a commitment to justice and progress.

The time to get The Bahamas in order is now. Let us not squander the opportunity to build a nation where every citizen can thrive in safety and dignity.

SHERVONNE

CASH HOLLIS

Women and Children Advocate Nassau, January 3. 2025.

Political mumbo-jumbo

EDITOR, The Tribune. NEW COMMISSIONER...News alert warning for all the rhetoric political mumbojumbo that will be spoken at the transfer of Commissioner. A-typical PLP move...appoint a woman suddenly everything will change. The problem as the country knows is the institution. This is not politics. Wish the in-coming luck as she is going to have to have that plus the grace of the good Lord. TOURISM-stay over stats show a 89% drop. Decrease the only good news is cruise and 48% of them never land in Nassau...

You don’t have look far to see the structural impairment and inflationary effect taking hold, especially in the Real Estate Sector, due to the vast amount of money apparently being invested by persons believed to be connected to the domestic gaming sector.

To be fair, they alone, are not the sole reason real estate prices are moving upward in this country. The foreign element is equally to be blamed if not more.

Interestingly and rather curiously, it is government who has been putting these real estate investments to productive use as they have shown a rather unusual and questionable preference to lease and or purchase office facilities believed to be owned by individuals connected to the domestic gaming sector.

To the extent such is the case, I do not resent the gaming operators for their financial success and enterprise and they ought to be commended for taking full

advantage of an ill- advised decision to ignore the will of the Bahamian people when the referendum spoke otherwise. I also commend them for their many charitable efforts as they have brought much needed relief too many. The above notwithstanding, there ought to have been a public discussion initiated by this administration on reforming the domestic gaming sector, with a view to ensuring that the state takes the greater share of the benefits to be gained from this sector.

The state through the operation of National or Public Lottery System or through greater taxation ought to be receiving the lion share of revenue generated by this sector.

This can be done while still preserving a role for current gaming operators and other commercial participants.

There is no rational explanation why this sector continues to be monopolised by a few operators who appears to have amassed considerable wealth, while the state receives peanuts relative to financial returns generated by the sector.

What is even more egregious, while the government receives trifles from this sector, it has no

difficulty raising taxes and fees on other sectors and disgracefully continues to charge VAT on breadbasket items and medical and health services.

Just imagine if funds from this sector was collected by the state to invest in education, healthcare, housing, social reform, sports and other infrastructural development.

This administration failure in this regard has led many to speculate that its failure has less to do with bad or incompetent governance, and more to do with protecting its self-interest or a potential source of political contributions and funding.

This administration ought to have responded positively to the call for the full implementation of a functional Freedom of Information Unit and for the introduction of Campaign Financing reforms. By avoiding of these reforms, the public is deprived of the opportunity to see underneath this administration inaction and silence when it comes to gaming.

To allow the current state of affairs to exist in the domestic gaming sector is a gross dereliction of duty to take the necessary reforms to ensure that the kind of structural economic inequities and inequality the Prime Minister often speaks about are minimised.

CLAUDE B HANNA Nassau,

January 2, 2025.

Goodman’s Bay

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NEW Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles at the swearing-in ceremony for her new deputy commissioners.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Finding affordable rented houses is a challenge. A research study suggests how that can be tackled

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

A NEW research study says while rental housing in New Providence is unaffordable for lower-income households, targeted policy interventions could revitalise the market and increase the availability of affordable units.

The study argues that affordable rental housing is essential to address the island’s growing housing crisis, which has forced many lower-income families into informal or substandard living conditions.

The study, written by Abigail Knowles and Randy Hield, reveals that most lower-income households spend a significant portion of their income on rent, far exceeding recommended affordability ratios. However, middle-income households appear to have more manageable housing

costs. For instance, the fifth income group, regarded as the middle class, spends less than the recommended amount on housing. The findings suggest that once an individual enters this income bracket or higher, rental housing becomes a reasonable and sustainable option. To tackle unaffordable rental housing, the study outlines several policy recommendations aimed at increasing the stock of affordable rental housing and addressing the imbalance in New Providence’s rental market. Chief among these is the implementation of mandatory inclusionary zoning (IZ) programmes, which would require developers to include affordable housing units within medium- to largescale residential projects. The government could incentivise compliance by offering density bonuses — allowing developers

to build more units than normally permitted — and expedited permits, easing the cost and time burdens on developers. Unlike direct subsidies, these measures would not require significant government expenditure, making them a practical option given the nation’s current fiscal constraints.

In addition to IZ programmes, the study recommends adopting aspects of Austria’s rental housing model, which includes limited-profit housing associations.

These associations would oversee the construction and management of costcapped rental housing, ensuring affordability for lower-income households. To support these efforts, the government could provide discounted building land, low-interest public loans, and tax incentives for developers. Such a framework could establish

a competitive rental market that serves both public and private housing needs.

Another key recommendation is supply-side subsidies, which directly support the construction of affordable housing units. According to the study, these subsidies have been shown to be more effective in increasing housing stock than demand-side measures like vouchers. In constrained markets like New Providence, where housing supply is limited, subsidies could help reduce prices and expand availability. The study emphasises that such subsidies should be carefully managed to ensure they benefit lower-income households without inflating market prices or creating inefficiencies.

The article further critiques the government’s existing housing policies, which prioritise home

ownership through subsidised mortgages and rent-to-own schemes. While these programmes may benefit middle-income households, they fail to address the needs of those who cannot afford home ownership, leaving a significant gap in the housing market. The lack of attention to rental housing has resulted in a fragmented and poorly regulated market, with most rental units being offered informally through platforms like Facebook groups or word of mouth. This informal structure complicates efforts to gather data and implement effective policy solutions.

The study also highlights the impact of amenities on rental prices, using data collected through a hedonic price model. Units located in gated communities or with beach access were found to be significantly more expensive, with gated

communities increasing rental prices by 56.2 percent and beach access adding 37.9 percent. These premiums and the high demand for rental housing further restrict options for lowerincome households.

The report concludes that solving New Providence’s housing crisis will require both short-term and long-term strategies. In the short term, the government should implement mandatory IZ policies to quickly increase the supply of affordable rental units. In the long term, a comprehensive overhaul of the rental market, inspired by Austria’s model, could provide the stability and affordability needed to serve lower-income households. This would involve fostering limited-profit housing associations and introducing structured financing mechanisms to fund the construction of affordable units.

FERNANDER: I HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

CLAYTON Fernander

officially handed over leadership of the Royal Bahamas Police Force on Friday to Shanta Knowles, the first woman to hold the position of police commissioner in the institution’s 184-year history.

“I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith,” Mr Fernander said.

The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the outgoing commissioner while signalling a new era under Commissioner Knowles at a time when scandals have rocked public trust in the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

Commissioner Fernander expressed gratitude and pride as he recounted his journey from his early days in San Salvador and Bain Town to leading the RBPF.

He quoted Jeremiah 29:11 as holding deep sentimental value, symbolising the faith that shaped his 42 years of service in the RBPF.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” he said.

“God has been good to me,” he added, highlighting both the challenges and accomplishments of his tenure. He recounted initiatives to modernise the force, improve infrastructure, and introduce specialised units to address pressing issues such as domestic violence and firearms trafficking.

He said under his command, over 400 officers were recruited and the the Domestic Violence Task Force and Anti-Gang and Firearms Task Forces were established.

He also emphasised technological advancements,

such as introducing artificial intelligence tools for crime prevention, and infrastructure upgrades like reopening the Eight Mile Rock Police Station.

“We hosted the Interpol Americas Regional Conference for the first time in the history of The Bahamas,” he added.

Mr Fernander also reflected on his family’s pivotal role in his journey.

Among these was when his son, Assistant Superintendent Jason Fernander, commanded the parade band during the ceremony. The outgoing commissioner expressed his pride in seeing his son follow in his footsteps, remarking on the legacy of service within their family.

He expressed heartfelt gratitude to his wife, Christine, whom he described as a pillar of strength during one of the most challenging moments of his life when he was shot in 2013.

“I encourage all officers to continue to serve the Bahamian people with courage, loyalty, and integrity,” Mr Fernander said.

“I am exceedingly confident that I am leaving the force and its entire legacy in capable hands.”

CLAYTON Fernander at Friday’s ceremony.

Photo: Nikia Charlton

THE STORIES BEHIND THE NEWS

MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2025

What’s on the agenda for new commissioner?

By MALCOLM STRACHAN

AND so we have a new Commissioner of Police.

Out goes Clayton Fernander, and in comes Shanta Knowles.

Already a history maker from her first day, becoming the first woman to lead the police force in The Bahamas, Commissioner Knowles inherits a police force that faces a number of challenges, external and internal.

Here are a few things on her plate to deal with from day one.

Murder rate

There is plenty of reason to ask how much the murder rate is down to policing and how much is down to our society, but dealing with it is very much on the plate of the new commissioner.

Her predecessor spoke repeatedly about how the force would keep the murder rate to less than a hundred each year, and failed repeatedly to do so.

The murder rate is also a heavily politicised figure –our current prime minister, Philip “Brave” Davis, was happy to put up signs saying how many were murdered under the FNM administration of the time, and the Coalition of Independents

fairly recently did the same to call him out in return.

This time last year, as the murder rate got off to a horrifying start, there was talk from Mr Davis of how murders should not be on the front pages of the nation’s newspapers – a nonsense, of course, and one that brought more bad publicity internationally without changing a thing.

There was also talk of clampdown measures that might impinge on civil liberties – but those never emerged. Even the usual increased presence and road blocks did not seem to appear.

Whatever was or was not done, the final murder count for the year reached 119 – with, I think, one or two cases still to be classified.

By Commissioner Fernander’s measuring stick, regularly keeping the number to double figures rather than treble figures is an attainable goal.

If Commissioner Knowles can achieve that, then it will play a big part in the assessment of how her term leading the police force will have been.

It would also make a significant difference on the streets. We often hear how many of the murders that take place on our streets are reprisal killings. Gangs killing gangs out of revenge.

If fewer of those take place, then there are fewer reprisals to occur.

Gang intervention

Speaking of gangs, the new commissioner will be the one almost certainly in charge when anti-gang legislation starts to bite.

The new laws go a step beyond the usual way of policing by making it punishable even just to be a member of a gang. Proving that will be a challenge for the courts, but executing the arrests on the street in the first place, based on the information allowed for in the legislation, will be a task for Commissioner Knowles.

There is the prospect of being able to make significant disruption in gang activities as a result, which in itself could have an effect on crime all around, including murder rates. Quite how gangs respond to such intervention, we do not know. It has the possibility of being a challenging operation for the police to launch, but with the prospect of great rewards if we can impact the murders, the drug smuggling, the gun importation and so on that blights our nation.

Clamping down on corruption

The mention of smuggling drugs and guns brings us to another matter – the allegations of corruption

within the ranks of the police itself.

An indictment served in the US alleged Bahamian police and defence force officers were involved in a massive cocaine and gun smuggling operation.

A second corruption investigation involving voice notes featuring a discussion purportedly between a senior police officer, a lawyer and two men who were subsequently murdered, and which centred around the aftermath of $1.5m being taken from a bank car at an airport, has already reported back. The case file for that is now with the Director of Public Prosecutions, and an officer who was arrested and questioned as part of the probe has now resigned.

The now departed Commissioner Fernander had said the investigation also brought up matters involving other officers, though without details.

The case involving the US indictment however is still standing open. As yet, there has been little sound of an investigation here in The Bahamas into the US allegations.

That will be one of the first matters in the new commissioner’s in tray, one would think. Those allegations also involve what is described as a high-ranking politician,

whose name has not been revealed, and who we are assured the government does not know. Whether you believe the government on that or not, there has been no action taken against any politician, so the question remains open.

That leaves two corruption probes, the outcome of which could have deep ramifications for the structure of the police force. Commissioner Knowles has the opportunity to be a new broom to sweep out any officers who may have been involved in things they should not have been. She can rebuild the reputation of the force by strong and determined action.

I hope she is given the support in doing so, to make sure the public can have faith in the force, and that officers in the force are under no doubt as to what is expected of them.

Greater communication

Among the various parts of Commissioner Knowles’ past is that she was once involved regularly in a communications role. Whatever the merits of Commissioner Fernander, he was not a smooth communicator – and Commissioner Knowles will hopefully make a difference there.

This is a necessity, so that the public can be better informed of how the fight

against crime is going – and how they play a part of it. Officers at crime scenes often tell the media that people can play a part by reporting suspicious actions – and that is true. Friends who have tried to report suspicious activity, however, have often reported a disinterest from officers when they do so. And colleagues in the media have spoken about how police communication channels have become more restricted, such as a Whatsapp channel with media no longer allowing media to post questions about things they may have heard of, and being slow to report events such as the recent gas explosion, which had no mention in the police channel until the next day.

Good relations with the public and with the media make it more likely that there will be feedback, tip offs and more. That can be part of restoring trust and – while it may not be the top of this list – it certainly plays a part in engaging people to make the change we wish to see in society. Because in the end, all of this is not about Commissioner Knowles – it is about us. We all need to play our part. I would say it needs to start now, but that would be a lie – it needed to start long ago. But if now is the moment, we need to take it.

THE NEW Commissioner of Police, Shanta Knowles, is sworn in on Friday by Governor General Dame Cynthia Pratt.

Photo: Nikia Charlton

FORGET BEGGING RICH NATIONS: CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES SHOULD ACT TO SAVE THEMSELVES

IT HAS long been evident that the world’s richest nations, especially those responsible for the lion’s share of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, care little about the existential threats faced by small states. For the Caribbean, the time for pleading has passed. Collective action must define the region’s response to the climate crisis.

Caribbean leaders in all sectors – government, business, and worker representatives – should pay close attention to a rare display of frankness on this urgent matter by Angela Merkel, the respected former Chancellor of Germany. In her memoir, Freedom, she presents a sobering assessment of global failure on climate action.

She admits that the measures taken to combat climate change by GHGemitting countries are “not good enough to save the world.” Worse, she

By SIR RONALD SANDERS World View

confesses that the problem has been known for years and yet has failed to inspire the necessary action in Germany or other wealthy nations. Her haunting question lingers: “Are we humans truly willing and able to act on the warnings of credible experts to take necessary, timely decisions for our survival?”

She concludes that, to date, there is no evidence of this, either in Germany or the world at large, and laments that “This knowledge weighs heavily on all of us, myself included.”

To strengthen her point, it should be noted that the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) recently reported

that “Global sea levels are rising as a result of humancaused global warming, with recent rates being unprecedented over the past 2,500-plus years.”

For the Caribbean, this sobering reality demands a shift in strategy. Waiting for wealthy nations to act out of conscience or moral obligation is futile. The region’s governments, private sectors, trade unions, and civil society organisations must seize the initiative to secure their future. The major emitters are constrained by the large and politically influential fossil fuel producers, or they continue their emissions to maintain competition with rival nations.

The cost of delay Small states can no longer wait to take their own action, or they will become spectators at their own funeral. Hurricanes are becoming more frequent and severe, wiping out GDP annually and plunging countries deeper into unsustainable debt as they rebuild. Insurance premiums have skyrocketed, becoming unaffordable for many, while small and medium-sized businesses— once the lifeblood of local economies—are often not rebuilt.

Beyond extreme weather events, rising sea levels, projected to increase by up to 1.4 metres by 2100, threaten to submerge low-lying islands and obliterate critical infrastructure. Coastal erosion, exacerbated by these changes, undermines the tourism industry—the economic backbone of many Caribbean states. Small states bear no blame Adding to the frustration

is the stark contrast between the Caribbean’s minimal contribution to the problem and its disproportionate suffering. The region accounts for less than 1% of global GHG emissions, yet it bears some of the world’s heaviest climate burdens. Insufficiency of funds

Small states’ representatives have routinely praised inadequate results. They should stop letting the big emitters cover up their gross neglect of their damaging actions. While the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) under the UNFCCC is a significant step forward, the reality of its financial inadequacy is sobering. Initial pledges amount to approximately $700m, a figure that falls drastically short of the trillions required to effectively address climate-induced loss and damage globally. Without a substantial increase in funding commitments, the LDF is little more than a symbolic gesture rather than a practical solution. We must say so – loudly. Grants vs loans and debt implications

Worse yet, the LDF appears to consist more of loans than grants. Small states end up borrowing money from rich emitters to pay for the damage these very emitters cause. Where is the justice in this? If loans dominate, borrowing from the LDF will exacerbate the already crippling debt burdens of many Caribbean countries. Governments are already grappling with debt servicing, which gobbles up almost 40 percent of their revenues, leaving less than 60% to run all aspects of the country’s requirements. This is simply unsustainable.

Accessibility of funds

Accessing funds from international climate mechanisms has long been hindered by bureaucratic complexities. The LDF is no exception. Delays in disbursement and overly burdensome requirements have prevented timely access to critical funds, leaving vulnerable nations exposed in the aftermath of disasters. For the LDF to be truly effective, it must adopt streamlined, transparent, and equitable application processes, ensuring that support reaches those in need without undue delays. Caribbean countries should be relentless in pursuit of this objective.

Regional resilience: A necessity, not an option Faced with these challenges, the Caribbean must take bold, unified action to build resilience at home

and robustly advocate for justice globally, such as: Building Resilience: Strengthening and enforcing national building codes is non-negotiable. Privatesector compliance should be incentivised through tax breaks or subsidies for climate-resilient construction, while non-compliance must be met with stiff penalties. Public infrastructure must be designed and upgraded to withstand extreme weather, prioritising long-term durability over short-term cost savings.

Regional Collaboration: Caribbean nations must accelerate efforts to coordinate disaster preparedness, renewable energy projects, and climate adaptation strategies.

Advancing Climate Justice: Legal mechanisms are a pathway to accountability. The ITLOS advisory opinion obtained by the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law (COSIS) is a milestone. The strong submissions made to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for an advisory opinion on climate obligations are another critical step. However, these efforts must move beyond opinions to enforceable actions.

The Caribbean should champion an alliance of like-minded states in the Pacific, Africa, Asia, and Central America to test the liability of GHG-emitting countries and companies in international courts. This is not about vengeance—it is about ensuring the survival of Caribbean people and their homelands. It is essentially about human rights.

Time to act

Angela Merkel’s words remind us that even the most concerned leaders in wealthy nations are constrained by political survival. Small states, therefore, must chart their own course collectively.

In 2025, climate change and global warming must sit at the top of every small state’s domestic and international agenda. The Caribbean’s leaders must focus on pragmatic, actionable solutions while continuing to demand justice from those most responsible for the crisis. Failure to act decisively risks leaving future generations to face an unthinkable catastrophe—and to wonder, “What in hell were they thinking?”

(The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US and the OAS. The views expressed are entirely his own. Responses and previous commentaries: www. sirronaldsanders.com)

LINDY KNOWLES, senior science officer at BNT, surveyed white and pale boulder star coral colonies suffering from the summer 2023 mass bleaching event in The Bahamas.

What’s with

all

the flu going around?

Here’s

what the CDC figures show

By MIKE STOBBE AP Medical Writer

THE holidays came with a side of flu for many Americans, with 40 states reporting high or very high levels of illness last week, according to the latest government health data.

“A lot of flu out there,” said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Carrie Reed.

Of course, there are a number of bugs that cause fever, cough, sore throat and other flu-like symptoms. One is COVID-19. Another is RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, which is a common cause of coldlike symptoms but can be dangerous for infants and the elderly.

The most recent CDC hospitalisation data and other indicators show that the flu virus is trending higher than the other germs, Reed said. Several seasonal flu strains are driving cases, with no dominant one, she added.

Pediatric hospitals have been busy since November with RSV, but “influenza has now joined the party,” said Dr Jason Newland, an infectious diseases specialist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.

“Now we’re really starting to roll,” he added. “Our hospitals are busy.”

Where flu illnesses are the highest

One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. That level last week was about equal to the peak of last winter’s respiratory virus season — which occurred at the same time of year. Reed noted that most people avoid medical appointments over the holidays if they can help it, so the data in late December might be skewed by people who came down with sudden illnesses.

Last week’s flu activity was particularly intense in the South, Southwest and western US. The states reporting lesser amounts of suffering were mostly in the northern Great Plains and

‘US health officials recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination, and they say it’s not too late to get a shot.’

in New England.

So far this season, the CDC estimates, there have been at least 5.3 million flu illnesses, 63,000 hospitalizations, and 2,700 deaths — including at least 11 children.

It’s not clear if this winter respiratory virus season will be any worse than others. So far it seems relatively typical, at least for kids, Newland said.

How to protect yourself from seasonal illnesses US health officials recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination, and they say it’s not too late to get a shot.

You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth because germs can spread that way, health officials say. You should also wash your hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched surfaces and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Other germs are being watched

The CDC also has been keeping its eye on a rise of illnesses from norovirus, a nasty stomach bug, with 91 outbreaks reported early in December.

Investigators also have been closely watching another kind of influenza virus, the Type A H5N1 version of bird flu. The CDC says 66 human US cases of that were reported last year, but none of them in the last week.

The cases are “fairly sporadic” and the overall risk to the public remains low, Reed said. Almost all have been traced to direct contact with infected animals, with no proof of spread between people.

Officers urged to tackle crime and corruption

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter

THE Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) held its annual police church service yesterday at Life Changers Ministries, where speakers urged officers to tackle crime and corruption with greater intensity and accountability.

The service, attended by officers, dignitaries, and community leaders, featured prayers, uplifting songs, tributes to fallen officers and messages aimed at inspiring unity and integrity within the force.

In his keynote remarks, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis acknowledged the immense responsibilities faced by

officers but urged them to serve the country with integrity and compassion.

He said that while the Bahamian people may not ask for perfection, they demand accountability and a force that is fair, firm, and fearless.

‘This is not an easy time to wear the badge,” he said. “Criticism is louder than ever, and trust has been shaken. I know it’s not fair that the actions of a few cast a shadow over so many who serve with honour. But this is the reality we face, and it is up to you — up to all of us — to change it.”

“When you put on that uniform, you carry more than just authority. You carry the hope of the mother worried about her

child’s safety, the faith of a community yearning for peace, and the trust of a nation looking to you for leadership.”

During the service, Bishop Valentino Williams emphasised the need for courage, integrity, and loyalty among law enforcement officers to combat crime effectively and rebuild public trust.

“You must be loyal to this force, and its mission,” he said. “And if you gotta lock up your family, lock em up. If you got to lock up a politician, lock ’em up.”

The service also featured religious and political leaders extending their well wishes to newly appointed Commissioner Shanta Knowles, the first woman to hold the position.

THE ROYAL Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) during a parade along Bay Street after their annual church service yesterday.

Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

NEW Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles on the parade.

BODY OF MAN KNOWN TO POLICE FOUND IN WATER

A GRAND Bahama man, who is known to police, was found dead in waters near a church in West End early yesterday morning.

Police have not yet classified his death and said they will await the results of an autopsy to determine the exact cause.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Stephen Rolle, speaking to reporters at the scene, said officers were alerted to the discovery of a man floating face down in the water near the church at around 9.30am. Police responded and retrieved the body from the water. The man was taken to a local doctor, where he was pronounced dead. When asked if police suspect foul play, ASP Rolle could not confirm, adding: “Once the autopsy has been done, we’ll determine the exact cause of his death.” Investigations continue.

THE SCENE in West End after a body was found.

Photo: Vandyke Hepburn

SCENES from the swearing-in ceremony for new Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles, below left.

Photos: Nikia Charlton

Heaviest snowfall in a decade possible in some areas as winter storm threatens US

By PATRICK WHITTLE and BRIAN WITTE Associated Press

A BLAST of snow, ice, wind and plunging temperatures stirred up dangerous travel conditions in parts of the central US on Sunday, as a disruptive winter storm brought the possibility of the “heaviest snowfall in a decade” to some areas.

Snowfall and ice blanketed major roadways in parts of Kansas and Indiana, where the state’s National Guard was activated to help any motorists getting stuck. At least 8 inches of snow were expected, particularly north of Interstate 70 as the National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings from Kansas and Missouri — where blizzard conditions were reported — to New Jersey into Monday.

“For locations in this region that receive the highest snow totals, it may be the heaviest snowfall in at least a decade,” the weather service said early Sunday.

About 63 million people in the US were under some kind of winter weather advisory, watch or warning on Sunday, according to Bob Oravec with the National Weather Service.

The polar vortex of ultra-cold air usually stays penned up around the North Pole, spinning like a top. But sometimes it escapes or stretches down to the US, Europe or Asia — and that’s when large numbers of people experience intense doses of cold.

Studies show a fast-warming Arctic gets some of the blame for the increase in polar vortex stretching or wandering.

In Indiana, snow fully covered portions of Interstate 64, Interstate 69 and US Route 41 and Indiana State Police pleaded with motorists to stay off the roads as plows worked to keep up with the pace of the precipitation.

“It’s snowing so hard, the snow plows go through and then within half hour the roadways are completely covered again,” Sgt Todd Ringle said.

Part of the I-70 was closed

in central Kansas by Saturday afternoon. Roughly 10 inches of snow had fallen in parts of Kansas with totals of snow and sleep for parts of Kansas and northern Missouri predicted to be as high as 14 inches (35.6 centimeters).

The storm was forecast to move then into the Ohio Valley, with severe travel disruptions expected. It will reach the Mid-Atlantic states on Sunday into Monday, with a hard freeze even expected as far south as Florida.

Severe thunderstorms, with the possibility of tornadoes and hail, were also possible ahead of the storm system’s cold front as it crosses the Lower Mississippi Valley, the National Weather Service warned.

Parts of upstate New York saw 3 feet (0.9 meters) or more of snow from a lake effect event expected to last until late Sunday afternoon.

A fire truck, several tractor-trailers and passenger vehicles overturned west of Salina, Kansas. Rigs also jackknifed and went into ditches, state Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner said.

He posted a video showing his boots sliding across

the highway blacktop like an ice-skating rink.

“We are in it now,” Gardner said as he drove to the scene of an accident. Online, he begged for prayers and warned that some roadways were nearly impassable.

Governors in neighboring Missouri and nearby Arkansas declared states of emergency. Whiteout conditions threatened to make driving dangerous to impossible, forecasters warned, and heighten the risk of becoming stranded.

Nearly 200 flights in and out of St Louis Lambert International Airport were canceled Sunday, according to tracking platform FlightAware.

The Kansas City International Airport temporarily halted flight operations on Saturday afternoon due to ice. Dozens of flights were delayed, including a charter jet transporting the Kansas City Chiefs, before the runways reopened.

“Work will continue overnight to keep the airfield clear,” Mayor Quinton Lucas said in a message on X. Amtrak also canceled numerous trains due to the storm.

Starting Monday the eastern two-thirds of the country will experience dangerous, bone-chilling cold and wind chills, forecasters said. Temperatures could be 12 to 25 degrees (7 to 14 degrees Celsius) below normal as the polar vortex stretches down from the high Arctic.

In Chicago on Sunday, temperatures hovered in the teens (minus 7 to 10 degrees C) and around zero in Minneapolis (minus 18 C), while dropping to 11 below (minus 24 C) in International Falls, Minnesota, on the Canadian border.

The Northeastern states are more likely to experience several days of cold following what has mostly been a mild winter, said Jon Palmer, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine. A plume of cold air coming down from Canada is likely to result in a cold but dry week, Palmer said.

The cold air will likely be present in the eastern half of the country as far south as Georgia, Palmer said. Parts of the East Coast will experience freezing temperatures, will lows likely dipping into the single digits

in some areas, he said.

Wind will also potentially pick up as the week gets going, making for potentially dangerous conditions for people exposed to the elements for long periods of time, Palmer said.

“As we head into the middle of next week it looks like those winds pick up,” he said.

Virginia Gov Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency on Friday evening ahead of the storm and encouraged residents to vote early on Saturday ahead of the state’s special elections Tuesday in a statement on X.

Similar declarations were issued in Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland and multiple cities in central Illinois.

“This is the real deal,” meteorologist John Gordon said at a press conference in Louisville, Kentucky. “Are the weather people blowing this out of proportion? No.”

Officials in Annapolis asked residents to remove vehicles from emergency snow routes. The historic state capital near the Chesapeake Bay also announced plans to open several garages Sunday for free parking.

The National Weather

Service predicted 8 to 12 inches (about 20 to 30 centimeters) of snow for the Annapolis area, with temperatures remaining below freezing throughout the weekend.

In Baltimore, an extreme weather alert was issued instructing agencies to provide shelter and assistance for those in need. City officials said wind chills were expected to dip to 13 degrees Fahrenheit (-10.56 degrees Celsius) overnight Saturday and remain in the teens through Tuesday.

In Louisiana, crews were racing to find a manatee that was spotted in Lake Pontchartrain before the cold temperatures hit. The manatee was first seen New Year’s Eve in the Mandeville area. While manatees are common in the area during the summer, winter sightings are a concern since they can begin to experience cold stress symptoms when the temperature falls below 68 degrees (20 Celsius).

“We are doing everything we can to get our hands on this animal,” said Gabriella Harlamert, stranding and rehab coordinator for Audubon Aquarium Rescue in New Orleans.

SNOW falls in St Joseph, Mo, yesterday.

Photo: Nick Ingram/AP

Buffalo defeats Liberty 26-7 in Bahamas Bowl

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor

With the return after a year played elsewhere, the Buffalo Bulls put together a dominating performance from start to finish to become the first team to win two Bahamas Bowl titles.

The bowl, which was introduced to the Bahamas in 2014 by Lea MillerTooley, was held for the first time on a Saturday at Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium.

With their 26-7 win over the Liberty Flames, the Bulls secured their fourth bowl title in six years, dating back to their initial win at the Bahamas Bowl in 2019 and a pair of Camellia Bowl titles in 2020 and 2022.

This time, kicker Upton Bellenfant kicked four field goals, running back Al-Jay Henderson ran for 119 yards and a touchdown while linebacker Red Murdock returned an interception for a score to boost the Bulls’ charge in

Harrison Petty celebrates 75th birthday

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

IT was a 75th birthday celebration that Colony Club’s proprietor Harrison Petty will not forget.

His family and close friends, both from the sporting and the community, came together at his home on West Bay Street to honour the philanthropist, who said one of his missions in life is to assist those in need.

Petty, who was surrounded by his wife Joyanne and five of his six children, told the invited guests that for their gift to him, they could make a contribution to his favourite charitable organisation, the

SEE PAGE 16

Harrison and Joyanne

Williams and Carl Oliver.

THE SPORTS CALENDAR

January

‘BUDDY’ BRINGS ENERGY AND JOY TO WARRIORS WHILE HONOURING HIS ROOTS IN THE BAHAMAS

By JANIE MCCAULEY AP Sports Writer

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Chavano

SOFTBALL STEVENS DIED THE softball community is mourning the death of Dwayne Stevens, who at one point served as the president of both the New Providence Softball Association and the Bahamas Government Departmental Softball Association. Stevens, 53, was the father of Dwainell Stevens and the child of Jefferson and Helen Stevens. One of his brothers, Darren and his wife, Thela Stevens, were actively involved in the NPSA as a manager and player.

BOXING NO ELECTION PENDING

PRESIDENT Vincent Strachan

clarified any indication that there is an election of officers pending in the Boxing Federation of the Bahamas, according to the rules and regulations of the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

“The way our elections are conducted is different from other organisations,” he said.

“We must get the approval from IBA before we can conduct the election process. I submitted my slate to IBA and no other people came forward. There were persons who expressed interest in seeking office in the federation but they are not members of the Boxing Federation of Bahamas.”

SEE PAGE 16

“Buddy” Hield hollers through the locker room at Stephen Curry with some good-natured banter or cracks jokes at practice and on the team plane, by all accounts leaving everyone in hysterics.

From the moment Hield joined the Golden State Warriors last summer, he exhibited a tireless training regimen, too — one that has impressed Curry.

“He probably puts more hours in the gym than I think I’ve ever seen anybody,” Curry said. The two-time NBA MVP is enjoying the high-energy personality, team-first dedication along with his new Warriors backcourt mate’s love for his craft.

From Freeport in the Bahamas to the Bay Area, the 32-year-old Hield takes great pride in representing his island nation on the big NBA stage.

“It’s special,” Hield said. “It’s not by chance. I’ve put the work in, for sure. I’m just blessed and honoured to be in this position.”

BIRTHDAY boy

moment with former track athletes Andrea Blackett from Barbados, Tonique

title for a second time.

Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr

Hield is averaging 12.6 points and shooting nearly 43% from the field with the

SEE PAGE 19

GOLDEN State Warriors guard Buddy Hield, left, gestures to the Minnesota Timberwolves’ bench during the second half of an NBA basketball game in San Francisco on December 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)

Harrison Petty celebrates 75th birthday

FROM PAGE 15

Great Commission Ministries. “The poor will always be with us, but when you have people, especially mothers, begging to support their children, we have to be concerned,” said Petty, who noted that everybody needs a helping hand.

Great Commissions

founder Bishop Walter Henchell said he’s eternally grateful to Petty because he has made a difference in his life.

“We all have that one or two persons that you can call a friend, who has been there for you,” Hanchell said.

“Harrison Petty has been one of those friends for me. Not only does he assist Great Commissions, but I remember when I was down with a medical illness and needed some assistance, Harrison Petty was there for me. I will never forget what he has done for men and Great Commissions Ministries.”

As for track and field, Petty said he was concerned that there were some things he could do to help the sport that he loves and so he decided to do it.

“It was an easy choice because there can only be one winner and a loser,” he said. “So when the gun goes off, everybody has their lane and may the best man win.”

He encouraged those persons to use the four ds concept in track - desire, discipline, determination and dedication. He said if we apply those to our lives, everybody would be able to help someone.

Dexter Bodie, head coach of the Roadrunners Track Club, said for the past 25 years, Petty has been a supporter, lending his financial support to the club. He noted that every year they hold their awards banquet in December, Harrison and Joyanne Petty are there.

On a personal note, Bodie said he remembered when he was having some issues with the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations, Petty stood up in his defence and told them they should not be treating Bodie the way they did.

Strachan said there were no challenges from our members, therefore IBA approved his team.

BASKETBALL

BLAZER ELITE RANKING FOLLOWING the completion of the Providence Storm Basketball Tournament, the Blazer Elite Basketball Club released its top 20 ranking of the senior boys basketball team in the country.

1. CI Gibson; 2. Sunland Baptist; 3. Tabernacle Baptist; 4. CC Sweeting; 5. RM Bailey; 6. St George’s; 7. Blazer Elite; 8. Westminster; 9. St John’s; 10. Anatol Rodgers; 11. Government High; 12. Gateway Academy; 13. Agape Academy; 14. Teleos Academy; 15. SC Bootle; 16. Queen’s College; 17. Charles W. Saunders; 10. South Andros; 19. Jordan Prince Williams and 20. CV Bethel. According to the Blazer Elite Club, all of the teams mentioned should be invited to participate in the prestigious Hugh Campbell Basketball Classic, hosted by the AF Adderley Junior High School, next month.

T-BIRD FLYERS TRACK & FIELD

CLASSIC

THE T-Bird Flyers Track and Field Club will hold its 2025 Track Classic over the weekend of January 10-11 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium. There will be two

For more than 20 years, coach Bernard Newbold has worked tirelessly with Petty in trying to get as many student-athletes off to college. Newbold said he just wanted to wish his mentor “happy birthday.”

He noted that Petty has done a tremendous job working with the athletes and helping them out as best as he could financially.

“There’s still more work to be done and he’s still assisting the kids as much as he possibly can,” Newbold said. “So I want to thank him for his contribution to track and field and the Parents Association.”

Former sprinter Errol Petty said he couldn’t agree more with all of the sentiments expressed about his father.

“He has been a role model, a true ambassador for this country, who has given tirelessly back to the community and has assisted so many people over the years,” he said.

“I’m so proud to have him as a father because he has instilled so many positive aspects into our lives. He’s a loving husband to his wife, a dedicated father to us and his children and a concerned citizen to those who are in need.”

Petty, who at one time was vying for a nomination to run for the Progressive Liberal Party in the general elections, continued to make his contribution to the party, even though he didn’t get the nomination, said political activist Earlin Williams.

Williams was accompanied by fellow political activist and radio talk show host Rodney Moncur, who said his only wish was that Petty should have gotten the nomination to run in Bains and Grants Town when he applied for it.

Accountant William Walkine said he’s appreciative of Petty and the work that he’s been working in the community. He encouraged his friend to continue to do what he’s doing and to know that he is there to continue to support him in any way he could.

His long-time friend, Rev. Leonard Jackson from Jacksonville, Florida, came

sessions starting on Friday, January 10 at 2pm and concluding on Saturday, January 11 at noon for age groups from under-7 to the open division.

The deadline for registration is January 6 and all clubs and schools can register by emailing Sandra Butler at smnbutler@ yahoo.com or coach Foster Dorsett at fdillet@gmail. com

MACEDONIA

WALK RACE

AS a part of its celebrations for their annual Men’s Anniversary, Macedonia Baptist Church on Bernard Road, Fox Hill will hold a Family Fun Walk race on Saturday, January 11.

The event, open to the general public, will get started at 6:30am from the church grounds and head west on Bernard Road to Village Road, turn around and head back on Bernard Road to the church.

The registration fee is $10 for men and women in the under-15, under-20, under-40, under-60 and 60-and-over age groups. There will also be a Pastors/Ministers/Deacons category.

Medals will be presented to the first three finishers in each age group and trophies to the top male and female finisher. Immediately following the race, a souse out will take place for $10 each. There will also be a time for persons to engage in a free medical check up. Interested persons can contact Eric Sweeting at 376-7211 or castellsweet56@hotmail. com or Brent Stubbs at 4267265 or stubbobs@gmqil. com for more information.

DTSP WOLFPACK

CLASSIC

THE DTSP Wolfpack

Track Club will hold its “I Come To Get Me” Track Classic on Saturday, January 18 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

in just to lend his support and to show his appreciation as well to Petty for his act of kindness that he has demonstrated to so many. “We were high school students when he came over to Jacksonville and we remained friends,” said Jackson, who attended Douglas Anderson High School wirth Petty in Jacksonville. “I will also remember and cherish the friendship we developed because Harrison Petty is

This year’s meet will honour icon Michael Sands, the president of the North American, Central American and Caribbean NACAC) and is a former public relations and president of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA).

Sands is a standout sprinter for Penn State who went on to two Olympic Games in 1972 and 1976. He has held several national records, including the men’s 400m.

Meet director Larry Clarke said they are delighted to honour this living legend for his contribution to the sport. He indicated that the track meet will be one that people will not forget.

ROAD RACE

BBSF RUN/WALK

RACE THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation, now in its second year of existence, will hold its annual Family Fun Run/Walk race on Saturday, January 25. The dual event, opened to the general public, will get started at 6:30am from the Bahamas Baptist College/Charles W Saunders High School on Jean Street.

The run will begin from Jean Street and head south to Prince Charles Drive. It will travel east on Prince Charles Drive to Fox Hill Road. On Fox Hill Road, the route will head north to Bernard Road, west on Bernard Road and south on Jean Street back to the finish line. The walk will leave Jean Street and travel north to Bernard Road, head west on Bernard Road to Soldier Road, travel south on Soldier Road to Prince Charles Drive, head east on Prince Charles Drive and back to Jean Street and the finish line.

The categories for both the male and female in both events will be under15, under-20, under-40, under-60 and 60-and-over. There will also be a

a man who is deeply concerned about his fellow mankind.”

And architect Lorenzo Taylor said they both have been there for each other and they continue to support each other as friends.

He said he will always cherish his relationship because Harrison has been more than a friend. “He has been like a brother to me. I really appreciate him.”

Petty’s birthday was actually on January 6 and also

Pastors/Ministers/Deacons category.

Medals will be presented to the first three finishers in each age category, while the top finishers in each event will be presented with a trophy. There will also be a trophy for the church with the most finishers.

The registration fee is $10 per person and there will be a souse out priced at $10 for chicken or turkey.

Interested persons are urged to contact Ann Thompson at 425-3557 or email ann837609@gmail. com or Brent Stubbs at 4267265 or email stubbobo@ gmail.com.

TRACK AND FIELD STAR PERFORMERS

MEET THE Star Trackers Track Club will hold its 22nd Star Performance Track and Field Classic on Saturday, February 1 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium. The event, powered by Baker/ Greyco Limited, will be held from 9am to 5pm. The registration deadline is on Friday, January 24 at 10pm at www.coachoregistration. com. Meet director Dave Charlton promises that the athletes and spectators will enjoy a very competitive meet that will be contested on time.

SWIMMING

BA AGM AND ELECTIONS

WHEN the Bahamas Aquatics holds its annual general meeting and election of officers on Saturday at 10am at the Balmoral Club, the following persons will be nominated for the various positions during the election of officers: President - Algernon Cargill; first vice president - Lynn Fraino; second vice president - Christine Wallace-Whitfield; third vice president - Gena Culmer-Taylor; secretary - Georgette Albury; assistant secretary - Amndrea Strapp; treasurer - Erald

Leonard Jackson stands behind Joyanne and

on hand to help him celebrate were quarter-milers Tonique Williams and Carl Oliver, Barbados 400m hurdler Andrea Blackett,

Thompson; assistant treasurer - Kendric Albury and Member-at-large - Courtney Barr, Carrie Saidi and Marc-Anthony Thompson. The nominations closed at midnight on Wednesday night.

BBSF SOFTBALL

LEAGUE

THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation will hold its 2025 softball league, starting on Saturday, February 8 at the Charles W Saunders High School, Jean Street.

The co-ed slow pitch league will allow each team up to a total of 15 players with the registration fee of $200.

The deadline for team registration with rosters and team payment is Saturday, January 25, 2025. Interested persons can tournament director Thomas Sears at 424-2888 or email 242softball@gmail. com or Brent Stubbs at 4267265 or emil stubbobs@ gmail.com

BAAA

CHURCH SERVICE

THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations has announced today that their annual church service will be held on Sunday at 11am at the Zion Baptist Church, East and Shirley Street.

The BAAA is inviting all of its executive members, coaches, athletes and spectators to join in the celebratory service to officially start the 2025 calendar year.

BASKETBALL

GBBA ACTION

THE Grand Bahama Basketball Association continued its regular season action over the weekend with a pair of exhibition games with the University of the Bahamas Mingoes.

On Saturday night at St George’s Gymnasium, Pizza Hut knocked off the Mingoes 103-79 as Ahmad Pratt and Trevor Bain scored 32 and 29 points respectively. Jeremiah Miller had

19 and Gabriel Styles 17 in the loss.And on Friday, the New Era Gymrats secured a 74-60 win over the Mingoes. Regis Cooper scored 20 and Clarence Thompson had 15 in the win. Erqantae Edgecmbe scored 23 and Jeremiah Miller 28 in the loss.

In the other game on Saturday, Dudley Boys def. Pelican Bay 76-60 behind 20 points apiece from Da Vaughn Seide and Shemar Pinder.

Keon Thompson had 17 and Dane Bodie 15 in the loss.

And in the other game played on Friday, the 242 Elite out-scored the Eight Mile Rock Legends 92-82 with Kavaro Russell scoring 23 and Terrance Higgs 20. Russell scored 37 and Tadd Martin had 12 in the loss.

TRACK AND FIELD

RED-LINE CLASSIC

THE Red-Line Athletics Track Club will hold its fifth annual Sonja Knowles Classic over the weekend of January 25-26 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

The meet, sponsored by Slim Jim and Mahatma, will begin at 10am on Saturday, January 25 and conclude on Sunday, January 26, starting at 1pm. Meet director Tito Moss has indicated that they will offer some awesome customised medals for top three finishers, customised crystal awards for MVPs U7 to U20 boys and girls.

He also noted that they will offer more events for the under-7 to under-13 age groups, but they expect that the under-15 to the open and masters categories will be very competitive with heats and finals in all sprint events. The entry deadline is January 19. Interested persons are urged to send in entries to redlineathletics242@gmail. com and smnbutler@yahoo. com or contact Tito Moss at 425-4262.

coaches Peter Pratt and Ednal Rolle, former BAAA office manager Ann Thompson and historian Stanley Mitchell.

HARRISON Petty flanked by some of the track and field coaches and officials.

HARRISON Petty gives his wife Joyanne Petty the first piece of his birthday cake.

MELODY SWEETING, far right, of M&M Entertainment, performing live.

REVEREND

Harrison Petty.

Mike Evans reaches 1,000 yards receiving and Buccaneers clinch NFC South with win over Saints

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Baker Mayfield used his legs and arm to help the Tampa Bay Buccaneers clinch their fourth straight NFC South title while putting Mike Evans over 1,000 yards receiving.

Mayfield fired a 32-yard touchdown pass to Jalen McMillan for the go-ahead score and then scrambled 28 yards for a crucial first down on the next drive, leading the Buccaneers to a 27-19 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

Evans caught a 9-yard pass on the final play of the game to surpass 1,000 yards for the 11th straight season, tying Jerry Rice for the most in NFL history. After Mayfield’s long scramble on third-and-14 from the Tampa 12, the Buccaneers drove to the Saints 11. Mayfield looked for Evans but flipped the ball backward to Bucky Irving, who ran 11 yards for a TD that made it 27-19.

The Saints turned the ball over on downs and the Buccaneers got one more chance to get Evans the milestone.

BEARS 24, PACKERS 22 GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Caleb Williams drove Chicago to Cairo Santos’ 51-yard field goal as time expired and the Bears snapped a 10-game skid with a victory over playoffbound Green Bay, who lost quarterback Jordan Love and wide receiver Christian Watson to injuries.

Green Bay coach Matt LaFleur said Love was held out as a precaution. The QB had some practice tosses on the sideline late in the game.

The Bears (5-12) beat the Packers for the first time since 2018 and ended an 11-game losing streak in this rivalry. It was redemption for Santos, who had a 46-yard field goal blocked by Karl Brooks on the final play of a 20-19 loss to the Packers on Nov. 17.

Brandon McManus had put Green Bay ahead by making a 55-yard field goal with 54 seconds left. Williams got the Bears into field-goal range by throwing an 18-yard completion to DJ Moore, whose fumble had set up the McManus kick. Green Bay (11-6) is the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs and will play at Philadelphia in the wildcard round.

EAGLES 20, GIANTS 13

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Tanner McKee threw for 269 yards and two touchdowns in a game full of backups to help Philadelphia tune up for the postseason with a victory over New York.

The NFC East champion Eagles (14-3) are the No. 2 seed in the conference and will host Green Bay next weekend in a wild-card game. With making a run at the Super Bowl a priority, the Eagles rested their core starters, notably running back Saquon Barkley, quarterback Jalen Hurts, wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith and offensive linemen Landon Dickerson and Lane Johnson.

Barkley lost his shot at breaking Eric Dickerson’s NFL single-season rushing record. Barkley finished the season with 2,005 yards rushing, 101 yards shy of breaking Dickerson’s record of 2,105 yards set with the Los Angeles Rams in 1984.

TEXANS 23, TITANS 14

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — C.J. Stroud completed all six of his passes for 50 yards and a touchdown Sunday on the Texans’ opening drive before going to the bench as Houston snapped a twogame skid going into the AFC playoffs with a victory over Tennessee.

The Texans (10-7) also avoided being swept by the

team they replaced in Houston. The Texans won for the first time since clinching their second straight AFC South title Dec. 15 with a win over Miami. Now Houston waits to see if the Texans are hosting either the Los Angeles Chargers, who played at the Raiders later Sunday, or Pittsburgh in an AFC wildcard game.

With the loss combined with New England’s win over Buffalo, the Titans ‘ season of misery at least landed them the No. 1 pick overall in the NFL draft in April. Their 3-14 finish matches 2014 for the most losses in a season since relocating from Texas to Tennessee in 1997.

COMMANDERS 23, COWBOYS 19

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Marcus Mariota threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin with 3 seconds left, lifting Washington to a victory over Dallas and clinching the sixth seed in the NFC playoffs.

Mariota threw for two scores and ran for a TD after replacing Jayden Daniels. The Commanders (12-5) sat their dynamic rookie quarterback at halftime since playoff seeding was the only thing on the line, and the move ended up sparking an offense that produced just 64 yards before the break.

It turned out Washington didn’t need the rally to keep the sixth seed because Green Bay lost to Chicago on a late field goal.

The Commanders will visit either Tampa Bay or the Los Angeles Rams in the wild-card round next weekend. The Packers will visit NFC East champion Philadelphia, the No. 2 seed, in the wild-card round.

PATRIOTS 23, BILLS 16

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Joe Milton III passed for a touchdown and ran for another in his NFL debut, and New England cost themselves the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft with a win over AFC East champion Buffalo. The Patriots (4-13) snapped a six-game skid when a loss would have guaranteed them the top draft pick. Instead, they fell to No. 4 behind Tennessee, Cleveland and the New York Giants.

Milton finished 22 of 29 for 241 yards in relief of rookie Drake Maye, who played only one series. Kayshon Boutte had seven catches for 117 yards and TD, and Joey Slye kicked three field goals.

With coach Jerod Mayo’s future in question, he ended up playing some starters and resting others.

PANTHERS 44, FALCONS 38, OT ATLANTA (AP) — Bryce Young passed for three touchdowns, ran for two scores and led a 70-yard drive capped by Miles Sanders’ 1-yard TD run on the opening possession of overtime to give Carolina a win over Atlanta.

The Falcons’ playoff hopes had already ended minutes earlier when Tampa Bay rallied past New Orleans.

Rookie Michael Penix Jr. capped his late-season introduction as Atlanta’s starting quarterback with a strong game, passing for 312 yards and two touchdowns — both to Drake London, who had 10 catches for a career-high 187 yards. Bijan Robinson ran for 170 yards and two scores, but the impressive offensive performance wasn’t enough to extend the Falcons’ season.

The Falcons (8-9) and Panthers (5-12) each missed the playoffs for a seventh straight season.

COLTS 26, JAGUARS 23, OT INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Jonathan Taylor ran for 177 yards, including 33 yards on six consecutive

carries in overtime to set up Matt Gay’s game-ending 38-yard field goal, and Indianapolis beat Jacksonville.

Taylor closed the season by matching a career-best streak with four straight 100-yard games. He also rushed for a touchdown Sunday to reach six scores during that span.

Joe Flacco was 23 of 40 for 263 yards, including a 40-yard TD pass to Alec Pierce, in his 105th career victory — perhaps the last of the 39-year-old former Super Bowl MVP’s 17-year career.

Indy (8-9) won its final two home games to finish 5-3 at Lucas Oil Stadium, although the Colts missed the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.

BRONCOS 38, CHIEFS 0

DENVER (AP) —

Rookie Bo Nix set a franchise record by completing his first 18 passes and Denver ended an eightyear playoff drought with a rout of Kansas City.

The Broncos (10-7) snapped a two-game skid and buried nearly a decade’s worth of futility and frustrations by returing to the postseason party for the first time since winning Super Bowl 50 following the 2015 season.

They’ll visit Buffalo (13-4) in the wild-card round next weekend after handing the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs (15-2) their first shutout since Dec. 16, 2012, at Oakland.

Having already secured the AFC’s No. 1 seed and sole first-round bye in their quest for an unprecedented three-peat, Chiefs coach Andy Reid sat Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and a host of other starters.

Carson Wentz got the start at quarterback and fizzled in his first extended action since Week 18 with the Rams last season. He was 10 of 17 for 98 yards and was sacked four times by the league’s best pass rush (62 sacks).

Nix threw for four touchdowns, giving him 29 for the season, second-most by a rookie in NFL history, behind only Justin Herbert’s 31 in 2020.

CHARGERS 34, RAIDERS 20

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Justin Herbert passed for 346 yards and two touchdowns, and the Los Angeles Chargers secured the fifth seed in the AFC playoffs with a victory over Las Vegas.

The Chargers (11-6) closed the regular season with a three-game winning streak under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh and will visit the fourth-seeded Houston Texans (10-7) in the next weekend’s wildcard playoff round.

Las Vegas, which had won back-to-back games, finished 4-13 with coach Antonio Pierce facing an uncertain future.

This was the Chargers’ first victory at Las Vegas since 2020 and their first season sweep of their AFC

West rival since 2018. That also was the last time the Chargers won at least 11 games.

Herbert showed off his arm and legs, taking off for a 41-yard run in the third quarter to set up a 2-yard touchdown pass to Will Dissly for a 27-13 lead.

His top target was Quentin Johnston, the second-year pro who set career highs with 13 receptions for 186 yards.

SEAHAWKS 30, RAMS 25

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Geno Smith passed for 223 yards and threw his career-best fourth touchdown pass to Noah Fant with 3:19 to play, and Seattle finished their 12th winning season in 13 years with a victory over the playoff-bound Los Angeles Rams.

Jimmy Garoppolo passed for 334 yards and two TDs in his debut for the Rams (10-7), who had already clinched the NFC West title through strength of schedule before they hosted the Seahawks (10-7).

The Rams rested Matthew Stafford and nearly all of his offensive starters to stay healthy for a home playoff game next weekend.

Coach Sean McVay didn’t care, but the Rams’ first loss since Nov. 24 dropped them to the fourth seed in the NFC playoff bracket behind Tampa Bay (10-7), which beat New Orleans.

Los Angeles’ visitor in the wild-card round will be the fifth-seeded loser of Minnesota’s showdown with Detroit on Sunday night.

DK Metcalf, Jake Bobo and AJ Barner also caught TD passes for Seattle. Jaxon Smith-Njigba had four catches to tie Tyler Lockett’s single-season franchise record of 100 receptions.

JETS 32, DOLPHINS 20 EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Aaron Rodgers threw a season-high four touchdown passes — Nos. 500, 501, 502 and 503 of his storied career — in what could’ve been his final NFL game to lead New York to a victory over Miami.

The 41-year-old Rodgers is uncertain if he wants to continue playing for a 21st season, and it’s unclear if the Jets (5-12) — who’ll have a new general manager and coach next season — will want to move forward with him.

But if this was it for Rodgers, he left with a win and some history, becoming the fifth player to throw 500 regular-season TD passes.

He also helped shut the door on the Dolphins (8-9), who needed a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive.

But that became moot when Denver routed Kansas City, which rested Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and several other starters, to clinch the final AFC postseason berth for the Broncos.

Rodgers finished 23 of 36 for 274 yards and TD passes

31-9,

NORTH AND NO. 1 SEED

By LARRY LAGE AP Sports Writer

DETROIT (AP) — Jahmyr Gibbs scored three of his franchiserecord tying four touchdowns in the second half, and the Detroit Lions beat the Minnesota Vikings 31-9 last night to win their second straight NFC North title and earn home-field advantage until the Super Bowl.

“Everybody’s got to come through here, baby!” Detroit defensive end Za’Darius Smith said to the roaring crowd after the game.

The Lions (15-2) and Vikings (14-3) could meet again in two weeks.

Detroit will have a much-needed bye for its banged-up team during the first week of the playoffs while Minnesota plays at the NFC West champion Los Angeles Rams next Monday night.

to Tyler Conklin, Davante Adams, Allen Lazard and Breece Hall, and an interception.

Garrett Wilson had four catches to join Brandon Marshall as the only players in franchise history to have 100 receptions in a season. Adams caught six passes for 88 yards for his fifth straight season with 1,000 yards receiving.

Ashtyn Davis had two interceptions for the Jets, who had four takeaways.

Tyler Huntley started at quarterback for the Dolphins in place of the injured Tua Tagovailoa, who missed the past two games with a hip injury. Huntley was 25 of 41 for 227 yards and a touchdown.

CARDINALS 47, 49ERS 24

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Kyler Murray threw for 242 yards and four touchdowns, two to Greg Dortch, and Arizona beat injury-depleted San Francisco.

Arizona (8-9) won four more games than last year, but still missed the playoffs for a third straight season. San Francisco (6-11) lost seven of its final eight to finish with its worst record since 2018.

The Cardinals led throughout the second half and took a 33-24 lead with 14:16 left in the fourth quarter when Michael Carter sneaked into the end zone just inside the left pylon for a 2-yard touchdown.

Arizona put the game away with 5:47 remaining on Murray’s 12-yard TD pass to Marvin Harrison Jr. that made it 40-24.

Tony Jones Jr. ran for a 46-yard touchdown to conclude the scoring and give Arizona its highest point total since 2015.

In the NFL’s final game before the playoffs, two teams played in the regular season with a combined 28 victories for the first time. A No. 1 seed was determined in a regular-season finale for the third time in threeplus decades.

Dallas wrapped up the 1993 regular season against the New York Giants with a 16-13 overtime win to give the Cowboys top seeding they used to their advantage as they advanced to and won the Super Bowl. The Giants, meanwhile, beat Minnesota in the wild-card round and were routed at San Francisco the following week.

Detroit desperately hopes history repeats itself. The Lions are seeking their first Super Bowl appearance and hoping to end an NFL championship drought that dates to 1957.

Game No. 272 of the regular season was expected to be a shootout with Pro Bowl quarterbacks leading high-scoring offences, but Jared Goff and Sam Darnold were not at their best. Gibbs picked up the slack for his team. He had 23 carries for 139 yards with a career-high three rushing touchdowns and caught five passes for 31 yards and another score.

Harrison finished with eight TD catches, tying the franchise’s rookie record held by Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Joshua Dobbs — starting for the 49ers in the place of injured Brock Purdy — threw for 326 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He hit wide-open fullback Kyle Juszczyk for a 36-yard TD with 4:49 left in the third quarter to cut the Cardinals’ advantage to 26-24.

TAMPA Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving leaps into the stands after scoring touchdown

during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints yesterday. The Buccaneers won 27-19.

(AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Deandre Ayton posts double double - 10 points, 13 rebounds - in 105-102 win over Bucks

By JIM HOEHN Associated Press

MILWAUKEE (AP) —

Anfernee Simons scored 28 points and Deni Avdija 19 as the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Milwaukee Bucks 105-102 on Saturday night.

Trail Blazers’ centre

Deandre Ayton contributed a double double - 10 points and 13 rebounds - with a block and a steal.

Giannis Antetokounmpo hit two free throws to give the Bucks a 102-100 lead.

Simons was fouled on a scoring drive and completed the three-point play, giving Portland a 103-102 lead with 23.5 seconds remaining.

Milwaukee turned it over on its next possession without getting a shot, giving Portland possession with

8.4 seconds remaining.

Simons hit two more free throws with 5.4 seconds left, giving Portland a 105-102 lead.

Damian Lillard missed a 3-point try from the left side on the Bucks’ final possession.

Antetokounmpo finished with 31 points and 11 rebounds, and AJ Green added 21 points on seven 3-pointers.

Takeaways

Trail Blazers: Portland snapped a two-game skid and won for the third time in five games.

Bucks: Milwaukee has lost two straight and four of five, with each loss to teams with sub-.500 records.

Key moment

Simons’ three-point play gave the Blazers the lead for good at 103-102 with 23.5 seconds remaining.

JOKIC’S 46 POINTS LEAD NUGGETS TO VICTORY OVER SPURS IN OVERTIME

SAN ANTONIO (AP)

— Nikola Jokic had 46 points and 10 rebounds and the Denver Nuggets spoiled Victor Wembanyama’s 21st birthday on Saturday, beating the San Antonio Spurs 122-111 in overtime.

Wembanyma finished with 20 points and 23 rebounds for San Antonio, but was scoreless and without a rebound in OT. Wembanyama has 57 double-doubles in 101 career games. The teams split the home-and-home series on consecutive nights. The Spurs won Friday’s game 113-110 when Wembanyama stole the ball from Jokic with four seconds remaining and Vassell scored on a fastbreak layup.

Jokic made sure there were no such heroics Saturday, scoring nine points in the extra period.

Michael Porter Jr. added 28 points and 10 rebounds for Denver.

Harrison Barnes scored 22 points and Devin Vassell 19 for San Antonio, which had won two straight.

Vassell missed a contested layup, but tipped in the rebound, to tie the game at 108 with 14 seconds remaining in regulation.

Jokic missed a 19-footer over Wembanyama with two seconds remaining to close regulation.

76ERS 123, NETS 94 NEW YORK (AP) — Joel Embiid had 28 points and 12 rebounds, and Philadelphia beat Brooklyn.

Tyrese Maxey added 18 points and Paul George and Caleb Martin each had 17 for the 76ers, who snapped a two-game losing streak.

Ziaire Williams had 19 points and Keon Johnson chipped in 15 for the shorthanded Nets, who have lost 12 out of their last 16 games. Brooklyn was playing without starters Cam Thomas (left strained ankle), Cam Johnson (right sprained ankle) and Ben Simmons (sore left calf).

The injuries to Thomas and Cam Johnson took place during Thursday’s victory at Milwaukee while Simmons was ruled out just before tip-off. Philadelphia fell behind 11-0 with 10:20 remaining in

the opening period before blitzing the Nets with a 29-8 run to close out quarter.

The 76ers kept the rhythm going in the second quarter, shooting 57% to take a 64-47 lead heading into the break.

PACERS 126, SUNS 108

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Tyrese Haliburton scored 27 points and Myles Turner added 20 points, six rebounds and three blocks, leading Indiana past Phoenix.

Haliburton also had eight assists and, for the second straight game, did not commit a turnover.

Indiana has won three of its last four to even its overall record at 18-18. The Pacers also swept the twogame season series from Phoenix.

Kevin Durant led the Suns with 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, while Devin Booker had 20 points in the same venue he scored an arena-record 62 in his last trip to Gainbridge Fieldhouse in January 2024. Booker also had nine rebounds and nine assists.

The Pacers swung the game by breaking a 56-all halftime tie with the first five points of the second half and used a pivotal 40-point third quarter — their third-best quarter all season — to seize control. Indiana never trailed in the second half.

BULLS 139, KNICKS 126

CHICAGO (AP) — Coby White made a career-high nine 3-pointers and scored 33 points, Zach LaVine also had 33 and Chicago beat New York after honoring former MVP Derrick Rose on Saturday night.

White hit 9 of 11 from beyond the arc. LaVine delivered his third 30-point outing in the past four games.

Nikola Vucevic added 22 points and 12 rebounds. Josh Giddey had 15 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists, helping the Bulls cap off a feel-good day on a winning note.

The team honoured Rose, the Chicago product, at halftime after announcing in the morning that he will join Michael Jordan (23), Scottie Pippen (33),

Jerry Sloan (4) and Bob Love (10) as the only players whose numbers have been retired by the franchise sometime next season. Chicago outscored New York by 24 in the third quarter after trailing by nine at halftime, sending the Knicks to their second straight loss after winning nine in a row.

Karl-Anthony Towns led the Knicks with 44 points and 16 rebounds. Jalen Brunson scored 33, and Josh Hart added 16 rebounds.

JAZZ 136, HEAT 100

MIAMI (AP) — Brice Sensabaugh scored a career-high 34 points, John Collins finished with 24, and Utah snapped a fivegame losing streak with a rout over Miami. Walker Kessler had 14 points and 16 rebounds while Jazz starters Collin Sexton (17 points) Lauri Markkanen (15) and Keyonte George (11) all finished in double figures. Nikola Jovic scored 17 points and Duncan Robinson finished with 16 for the Heat, who played without suspended star forward Jimmy Butler. Butler was suspended for seven games on Friday over

what the club calls conduct detrimental to the team after saying “probably not” when asked if he thought he could find on-court joy again in Miami. The Jazz outscored Miami 40-19 in the second quarter for a 62-41 lead at halftime. George’s 3-pointer early in the fourth gave the Jazz their biggest lead at 112-69.

It was the sixth largest home loss in Heat history and largest since a 144-97 loss to Milwaukee on Dec. 29, 2020.

WARRIORS 121, GRIZZLIES 113

SAN FRANCISCO (AP)

— Andrew Wiggins scored 24 points, Dennis Schroder added 17 and undermanned Golden State held off Memphis in the latest testy matchup between the rivals. Lindy Waters III scored 16 with four 3-pointers off the bench on a night the Warriors missed Stephen Curry along with fellow guards Brandin Podziemski and Gary Payton II. Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 23 points and Desmond Bane had 22 points and 10 assists as Memphis wrapped up a five-game road trip.

Physical play is always the norm with these teams and it became heated 36

seconds into the fourth quarter. Draymond Green was issued a flagrant 1 foul against Zach Edey, then Green received his ninth technical of the season at the 10:51 mark. Grizzlies star rookie Jaylen Wells was held to eight points a night after scoring 30 with eight 3-pointers in a victory over the Kings.

CLIPPERS 131, HAWKS 105

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Norman Powell scored 20 points, Kawhi Leonard added 12 in his first game of the season and Los Angeles rolled to a victory over Atlanta. Leonard, who missed the Clippers’ first 34 games with what the team described as right knee injury recovery, played 19 minutes. He was 4 of 11 from the floor, including three 3-pointers, along with three rebounds and one assist.

Ivica Zubac had 18 points and 18 rebounds as the Clippers snapped a twogame losing streak. Amir Coffey had 17 points. Trae Young led Atlanta with 20 points and 14 assists. De’Andre Hunter had 18 points for the Hawks who have dropped their last three after winning four straight.

The Clippers had a 36-35 advantage early in the second quarter before breaking it open with a 27-4 run, with Coffey scoring nine of his 15 points in the period.

PISTONS 119, TIMBERWOLVES 105

DETROIT (AP) — Cade Cunningham scored a season-high 40 points and Detroit overcame Anthony Edwards’ career-high 53 points to beat Minnesota. Cunningham, who also had nine assists, set his previous season high of 35 points against Milwaukee on November 13. Edwards’ previous career high was 51 points against Washington on April 9 last season. His 3-pointer with 9:25 remaining tied his career best but he didn’t score again until 22 seconds remained. Malik Beasley had 23 points as the Pistons won their third straight and sixth in their last seven games. Tobias Harris contributed 16 points and 11 rebounds and Ausar Thompson added 10 points, 10 rebounds and a career-best six steals.

Julius Randle was the only other Minnesota player in double figures with 17 points.

DENVER Nuggets centre Nikola Jokic (15) drives against San Antonio Spurs centre Victor Wembanyama (1) during the second half of an NBA basketball game in San Antonio on Saturday. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

BUCKS’ Damian Lillard tries to get past

Portland Trail Blazers’ Deandre Ayton during the first half of an NBA basketball game on Saturday in Milwaukee.

(AP Photo/ Morry Gash)

Buffalo defeats Liberty 26-7 in Bahamas Bowl

the only bowl game played for the day and carried live on ESPN.

“Our guys were loose this morning. They were ready to go. We got off to a pretty good start. A few field goals gave us the momentum,” he said

“It was windy today. This wind was a big factor, if anything else in this game, and we were able to manage that pretty well, run it when we were going into the wind, throw it when we weren’t, so I think we took advantage in the second half when we had that long drive in particular.”

After finishing last season at 3-9, Pete Lembo came in and turned things around as they improved to 9-4 to earn the right to come back to the Bahamas to represent the Mid-American Conference.

“We had a really great time with the senior class,” said Lembo of the players who would have played on the first Bahamas Bowl championship team. “I got hired really late in the circle, but they embraced me from day one, they embraced the staff. They did a great job steering this ship.”

BUDDY

FROM PAGE 15

When Hield arrives anywhere with the Warriors, he offers his hellos with that signature smile and instantly lifts the spirits of his new team. It’s the kind of joy and focus coach Steve Kerr has long insisted defines the Warriors franchise.

“There is nothing evenkeel about him, he is all extreme happy, joy, talking all the time, and you love that energy because he loves the game,” Curry said. “... He does bring joy to the locker room, to the plane. No matter where we’re at, you’re going to hear him and he lifts everybody up

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis was on hand to present the trophy to Lembo and he and MillerTooley also presented game balls to two of the Bulls’ players.

“It was a mis-step last year that we didn’t have it, but I’m happy that we got it back again this year,” Davis said. “As you can see, they brought a lot of attention to the Bahamas once again with the live television coverage.

“The two teams brought a lot of fans with them and everybody enjoyed themselves. So I’m happy that we were able to pull it off. Hopefully it will be here to stay. We hope to do what we can to make it happen.”

Miller-Tooley, who heads the Complete Sports Management team that is responsible for putting on the Bahamas Bowl, said she was delighted to bring the bowl back to the Bahamas.

“There’s not a second to none destination for us to go,” she said. “We’re just happy to be back here and to have the endorsement from the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Tourism, Atlantis and all of our sponsors.

“But just to be in one of the most beautiful places in

because he’s got a great sense of humour and he’s been around the block. The funniest part is you just can’t get him to shut up. So you appreciate everything he brings.”

His teammates call him Buddy Love, Buddy Fresh and Buddy Buckets — the nickname Buddy has been with the shooting guard since just after his birth, as Hield’s formal first name is Chavano.

Hield became the 17th player in NBA history to reach 2,000 3-pointers, and he sparks the offence with the way he runs the floor.

“I’ve just got to keep moving and hopefully I’m able to catch some of the

the world and to have these players’ passports stamped here is nothing short of a blessing. We now have to work on next year.”

Until then, the bragging rights goes to Buffalo, who survived a low scoring defensive battle in the first half to secure a rout in the second half.

Bellenfant booted a career-long 52-yard field goal in the first quarter and finished off the first half with a 42 and 20-yard kick down the stretch to push Buffalo ahead 9-0 at the half.

greats,” Hield said. “I probably won’t be able to catch Steph, but I hope to catch some of the greats and hopefully I can crack top10, maybe top-five.”

That would be just fine with Kerr.

“We’re at our best when we’re playing fast and with a lot of pace, and that’s what Buddy does really well,” Kerr said. “He runs the floor in transition probably better than anybody on our team.”

The Warriors (16-16) have been struggling lately, losing three of their last 10.

But you won’t hear complaints from Hield, who has enjoyed an impressive run — from shooting as

Running back Al-Jay Henderson, making some history of his own as the 11th Bulls player to run for more than 1,000 yards, had 21 carries for 119 yards.

The most impressive feat came in the second half when he burst through the middle, scoring on a 45-yard run on the first possession for a 16-0 spurt.

Bellenfant, putting his stamp of approval on the game with his first four field goals in one game, had missed a 30-yard field goal on the first play of the fourth quarter but, on the

a youngster on a makeshift hoop that he and his brother Chevez constructed from a milk crate to helping lead Oklahoma to a Final Four in college and now as a journeyman in his ninth NBA season with a fifth different team.

“Where I came from in the Bahamas, I couldn’t write a better script than this, just being down there, shooting on an outside court, building my own court right from a crate. To have 2,000 3s, I know the young kids back home and the people that helped me get to this point will really appreciate that.

“So I’m just blessed to be in this situation.”

next possession, the kicker connected from 45 yards.

The big plays continued for Buffalo as Murdock intercepted a pass intended for Nate Hampton and he turned it into a 31 yard to extend their insurmountable lead to 26-0.

After getting shutout in the first half for the first time this season, Liberty had a golden opportunity to get on the scoreboard.

But Liberty then had its longest drive, going 75 yards capped by a 36-yard pass from replacement quarterback Nate Hampton to Reese Smith.

After a failed onside kick, Buffalo ran out the last seven minutes of the game, reaching the Liberty 3.

Hampton, who hadn’t thrown a pass all year, took over in the fourth quarter and was 2 of 9 for 40 yards. Starting quarterback Ryan Burger was 4 of 12 for 40 yards through three quarters.

Liberty, in avoiding their first shutout since 2019, played in a bowl game for the sixth-straight year but remained winless since 2021.

It was hoped that their lucky charm, Bahamian hurdler Indea Cartwright, home for the holidays,

Hield landed with Golden State following Klay Thompson’s departure to Dallas, and it’s something Bahamas teammate Thompson called “very special.”

“I’m just happy they replaced me with another Bahamian,” he said.

And Thompson certainly realises what Hield means to the Bahamas and helping build basketball back home.

“Are you kidding me? He’s a legend, especially around Freeport. Buddy gives young men and women hope all over the nation,” Thompson said.

“Especially his commitment to the national team, it’s amazing. It’s really cool.”

would help to ignite their firepower.

But Cartwright, one of two Bahamians on the Flames women’s track and field roster, admitted that it wasn’t what she anticipated for Liberty and her family members, who also came out to support the team.

“Nonetheless, I think they did a great job,” was Cartwright’s comforting words to the football team.

“It was fun watching the game.

“I brought some of my family members so they could see what a football game is all about. Many of them have never seen a football game other than on the screen, so it was good to see a live game. Sorry we didn’t win.”

Now that it’s over, Cartwright is eager for her family to come to watch her compete in track and field, like they did when she ran for St John’s, along with Shania Adderley from Tabernacle Baptist Academy in Grand Bahama.

“I know they have promised to come over and watch me and the team compete so they can get that feeling of what track and field is like,” she said.

“So it should be a lot of fun.”

Hield’s shooting has been inconsistent, but the Warriors are seeing everything he brings on and off the court. And that doesn’t waver whether he’s hitting shots or missing them, or starting or coming off the bench.

“He lifts this team every day when he comes in smiling,” guard Gary Payton II said. “I know that smile travels all the way back to the Bahamas and those kids have the same smile when he’s on the court. ... How he plays and what he does, it’s kind of like a Steph effect over there in the islands. They’re shouting Buddy. We know what he means to this team and what he means to the Bahamas.”

PRIME Minister Philip Davis celebrates with the Buffalo Bulls on Saturday after they won the Bahamas Bowl title for a second time.

Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr