01092025 NEWS AND SPORT

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The Tribune

5% VAT CU T ON A LL FOOD I T EMS

PM

announces tax relief on products sold in foodstores

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister

Philip “Brave” Davis has announced that the valueadded tax rate on all food sold in food stores would be reduced from ten percent to five percent.

The surprising measure, he said, is designed to offer

immediate relief to families burdened by rising prices.

“We know that high prices exert a terrible pressure on families,” he said during his New Year’s address at the University of The Bahamas.

“Reducing VAT by 50 percent will make a difference for those with the

SEARCH FOR NEXT UB PRESIDENT NARROWED TO THREE FINALIS T S

THE University of The Bahamas said the search for its next president has been narrowed to three finalists after an extensive recruitment search.

The finalists are UB

alumna Dr Maria Woodside-Oriakhi, Dr Robert Blaine III, and Dr Leroy Hamilton Jr.

UB said in a statement that Dr Woodside-Oriakhi brings over 25 years of academic experience, specialising in advancing quality initiatives, fostering global partnerships, and overseeing academic preparation for SACSCOC (The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges) accreditation.

Bar president

criticises govt over delays in full FOIA implementation

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

BAR Association President Khalil Parker lambasted the government’s delay in fully implementing

Knowles

the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), calling it an “unreasonable” and “unconstitutional” interference with the public’s right to transparency. During his address at the opening of the 2025 legal

year, Mr Parker emphasised the public’s entitlement to integrity, transparency, and accountability from those responsible for the administration of justice and public

says ‘much more work to be done’ in voice note probe

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

POLICE Commissioner Shanta Knowles suggested yesterday that the investigation into a high-profile controversy linked to voice notes is incomplete, even though it led to charges against three men on Tuesday.

“That investigation has been going on for a few months and we are pleased that we were able to get to a point where we were able to have them arraigned before the Magistrate’s Court,” she said. “There is much work to be done with

A BAHAMAS-based underwater explorer is accusing its legal opponent of seeking to “harass” it through allegations it conducted treasure hunting off Mayaguana without obtaining the required government permits.

Attorney for Allen Exploration Group (AEG) said that the innuendo-based claims by their opponent were nothing more than a “deflection” from the parties’ core dispute over the salvaging of an estimated $1.5bn in treasure from another wreck in Bahamian waters. FULL STORY -

Photographs from opening of legal year

Photos; Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Bar president criticises govt over delays in full FOIA implementation

affairs.

The FOIA, passed in 2017, is intended to provide the public access to government records and promote transparency, accountability, and public participation in decision-making. However, successive governments have failed to fully enforce the Act.

In January 2024, Prime Minister Mr Philip “Brave” Davis said that implementing the FOIA is not a top priority, though he was committed to enacting it during this term. He said addressing the needs of struggling Bahamians is a more pressing issue.

“While the Freedom of Information Act has yet to be brought into full force and effect, I must emphasise that the public has an inherent right to access to the information to which access is intended to be facilitated under the Act,” Mr Parker said. “Every day that full implementation of the Act is delayed is an unreasonable and unconstitutional interference with that fundamental right. While successive administrations have acknowledged this fundamental right, the government has yet to

discharge its obligation to vindicate that right, which remains a priority for the association.”

“We applaud the government’s recognition of the need for transparent, effective, and accessible public integrity legislation. Integrity cannot co-exist with impunity, and the exercise of the power of the state without the accountability and transparency to which the populace is entitled is tyranny, no matter how seemingly docile or indolent.”

Attorney General Mr Ryan Pinder said officials are working on a pilot plan in select ministries, along with training sessions to appropriately respond to information requests.

The last Ingraham administration passed the FOIA shortly before the 2012 general election, but did not set an enactment date. The Christie administration overhauled the legislation, but never implemented its provisions.

In May 2021, the Minnis administration appointed Keith Thompson as the first Freedom of Information Commissioner, with Mr Shane Miller, a retired assistant director of legal affairs, as deputy.

Knowles says ‘much more work to be done’ in voice note probe

that investigation, and as we work, we will wait for the DPP to give us further direction.” Commissioner Knowles’ predecessor, Clayton Fernander, told reporters last month that the investigation extended beyond the leaked audio.

Police charged three men on Tuesday: former Chief Superintendent of Police Michael Johnson, prominent lawyer Bjorn Ferguson and Sergeant 3726 Deangelo Rolle.

The charges stemmed from leaked voice notes that allegedly captured a quid-pro-quo arrangement involving Johnson and Ferguson and two murdered men, Michael Fox Jr and Dino Smith.

Police allege that Johnson conspired with Ferguson and Fox Jr to solicit a bribe from Fox Jr

between November 6 and 15, 2023.

During the same period, Johnson also allegedly helped Fox Jr in an offence related to theft. He is further accused of stealing $90,000 from Akeil Holmes, another suspect in the case, on November 3, 2023, while the money was in police custody.

Meanwhile, Ferguson is charged with assisting Fox Jr after the fact in a theft-related offence between November 6 and 15, 2023. Rolle faces a charge of abetment to stealing.

The three men were not required to enter pleas to the offences but were granted bail with reporting conditions.

They are scheduled to return to court on January 30 for the presentation of Voluntary Bills of Indictment (VBIs).

Accused of assault with a dangerous instrument

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was granted bail after he was accused of assaulting someone with a stick at a taxi stand on Paradise Island last month.

Senior Magistrate

Anishka Isaacs arraigned Anthony Ferguson, 22, on assault with a dangerous instrument.

The defendant allegedly assaulted Mauricio Hepburn with a stick while he was washing taxis on Casino Drive on December 9, 2024. After pleading not guilty to the charge, the defendant was granted bail at $3,000 with one or two sureties. Under the terms of

Ferguson’s bail, he must sign in at the Central Police Station every Friday by 7pm. He was also barred from working on Cabbage Beach until the completion of his trial, which begins on February 25.

Quinton Percentie represented the accused.

BAR Association president Khalil Parker KC ahead of a procession to mark the opening of the legal year downtown yesterday.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

POLICE Commissioner Shanta Knowles at the opening of the legal year downtown yesterday.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Independent Investigations Bill scope to include more than just security forces

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

ATTORNEY General

Ryan Pinder announced plans to broaden the scope of the Independent Investigations Commission Bill, granting the proposed body sweeping powers to investigate misconduct not only by security forces but also by senior civil servants, parliamentarians, and officials required to file public disclosures.

The legislation, which aims to restore public trust in law enforcement and public administration, empowers the commission to address serious allegations of misconduct, including abuse of power, corruption, and breaches of trust. Initially focused on law enforcement agencies such as the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), and the Department of Corrections, the bill now proposes to include public officials who must comply with disclosure obligations.

Speaking at the Opening of the Legal Year 2024, Mr Pinder highlighted the importance of broadening accountability. He said the expanded scope would include senior civil servants, parliamentarians, and corporate board members.

The commission would have powers to investigate complaints of misconduct, excessive use of force, corruption, procedural violations, and other actions undermining public trust. Under the bill, the commission could obtain and review documents, inspect premises, seize evidence, summon witnesses, and conduct inquiries, with findings submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions. It would also propose reforms and recommend measures to

improve accountability within public bodies and the security forces.

The Governor-General will appoint the commission’s members after consultation between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. Commissioners must meet strict eligibility criteria, with disqualifications for individuals with conflicts of interest, prior convictions, or ties to government contracts. Once operational, the commission will receive complaints through its Director of Complaints and regional offices in New Providence and the Family Islands. It will issue press releases on investigation outcomes and submit detailed reports to Parliament.

The legislation includes protections for whistleblowers and witnesses, granting immunity to those assisting the commission. However, it also imposes strict penalties for obstructing investigations, providing false information, or failing to comply with its requirements. Offenders could face fines of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.

The bill has faced criticism from some, such as Bar Association President Kahlil Parker, who previously expressed concerns about its failure to address systemic issues in law enforcement. Yesterday, Mr Parker acknowledged recent consultations and said he is optimistic about revisions that could establish secure and transparent complaint procedures.

Mr Pinder also announced plans to introduce whistleblower protection legislation. He said whistleblowers play a critical role in the fight against corruption, safeguarding public funds, driving policy reforms, and promoting a culture of accountability.

AG calls on judges to deliver quicker decisions

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

ATTORNEY General

Ryan Pinder has called on judges to deliver decisions and judgments more promptly while urging

senior legal professionals in the Inner Bar to support the judiciary by taking on short-term judicial appointments to address delays in the court system.

Speaking yesterday at the opening of the Legal Year 2025, Mr Pinder addressed

judges, attorneys, and court officials, emphasising that delays in judicial rulings can negatively impact those seeking justice.

“We are still experiencing delays in receiving decisions and judgments that in some instances may be

prejudicial to those who are looking for justice,” he said.

“To have an effective judicial system, we must have a firm commitment to rendering decisions in a timely and efficient manner.”

Mr Pinder also highlighted the approximately

200 weeks of annual judicial vacation time between the Magistrates Court and Supreme Court, describing this as significant time during which court matters are not heard. He challenged King’s Counsel, members of the Inner Bar, to assist by accepting shortterm judicial roles to help expedite court proceedings.

Acknowledging the challenges judges face in their roles, Mr Pinder highlighted the importance of the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and reducing the court backlog, a long-standing issue in The Bahamas.

In addition to his call to judges and senior attorneys, Mr Pinder addressed members of the private bar, urging them to take on more pro bono work.

He emphasised the need for legal assistance for underserved

communities, including providing representation to non-profits, civil society, and citizens unable to afford legal counsel.

“Embrace the legal aid clinic at EDLS, law firms sponsor your own legal aid clinics, these are all obligations of our profession to give back and provide the necessary assistance,” he said. “These are just some ideas on how we as a profession should commit as we strive for excellence.”

Mr Pinder also highlighted Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Cordell Frazier for her office’s work regarding criminal cases. In 2024, the DPP’s office disposed of 194 cases in the Supreme Court, addressing serious offences, including murder, armed robbery, rape, unlawful sexual intercourse, possession of unlicensed firearms, and vehicular manslaughter.

ATTORNEY GENERAL RYAN PINDER

5% VAT cut on all food items

from page one

tightest disposable income.”

He said the VAT cut would apply to all food sold in food stores, including fresh produce, frozen items, baby food, and snacks, though prepared foods in deli sections will not be included. The reduction also extends to the importation of these goods.

The VAT announcement represents a shift for the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), which has traditionally supported a low-rate, broad-based Value Added Tax (VAT) system with minimal exemptions, a model

that has been praised for its efficiency and simplicity. Mr Davis said the initiative comes as part of a broader government effort to mitigate the effects of inflation, which has remained high despite slowing global trends. He acknowledged that factors like the war in Ukraine and disruptions in global supply chains have worsened conditions, but emphasised his administration’s commitment to alleviating local hardships. He stressed that the reduction would not impact the government’s fiscal

targets, saying improved revenue collection from large corporations and compliance measures have strengthened the country’s fiscal position.

He expressed commitment to addressing other structural issues driving high costs, such as by modernising outdated infrastructure and reducing electricity costs.

“You simply can’t build a 21st-century economy with 20th-century infrastructure,” he said, citing plans for utility-scale solar fields, LNG integration, and upgraded transmission systems.

He also announced initiatives to promote market competition and empower consumers. He said a “Price Comparison App” that will be available by the end of the first quarter of this year will allow Bahamians to easily compare prices across retailers, starting

with food stores. He added that the government is also preparing legislation prohibiting anti-competitive practices, which he said would lead to “lower prices, better products, and more choices.”

Addressing the country’s reliance on US imports,

he discussed a new Trade Diversification Policy to source goods directly from their countries of origin, cutting out costly middlemen.

“If we import the same products directly, we could lower prices significantly,” he said.

The Tribune Limited

NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI

“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

LEON E. H. DUPUCH

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .

Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

Contributing Editor 1972-1991

RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.

Publisher/Editor 1972-

Published daily Monday to Friday Shirley & Deveaux Streets, Nassau, Bahamas N3207

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Yet another year and another call for FOIA

A FULL year ago, in this column, we wrote how Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis was not making Freedom of Information one of his priorities.

Progress on the matter was so slow, we noted, that even snails were shocked by the lack of speed. And now, as we have thrown out the old calendar and opened up the new, the government is being called out by the president of the Bar Association.

Khalil Parker, at yesterday’s opening of the legal year, called the delay in implementing the act an “unreasonable” and “unconstitutional” interference with the public’s right to transparency.

The only thing he is incorrect about is calling it a delay – it is more like a dead stop. It was in 2012 that the then Ingraham administration passed a Freedom of Information Act. The Christie administration that followed tinkered with the legislation … but never implemented it. The Minnis administration made Keith Thompson the first Information Commissioner in 2021, and he has never had to oversee the release of a single piece of information.

The Davis administration is now at the wheel, and there has still been nothing. In May 2023, Mr Thompson said he anticipated information requests being handled by the end of that year. It never happened in 2023. It never happened in 2024.

Mr Davis blamed the lack of movement in part on resources, saying that he wanted to ensure relief for the Bahamian people as a priority over such things as Freedom of Information.

That is of course predicated on the belief that you cannot do both – when you can. Yesterday saw the prime minister give a national address in which he talked of cutting VAT on food costs, again emphasising trying to bring relief to people on living costs. Meanwhile, his attorney general, Ryan Pinder, talked of there being a pilot plan in select ministries to deal with

information requests, along with training sessions. Forgive us, but we have heard that story before. Is there any danger of a date by which these things will be fully functional? Has the budget been adjusted to give the commissioner the tools he needs to fulfill requests? Is the government pledging to commit those extra funds during the current budget period or must we wait for the next budget?

Unless the money required for the process is being put on the table, then the rest is really just talk.

Mr Parker cut through the noise about when such things might come along when he pointed out that what we are talking about is a “fundamental right”.

He said: While the Freedom of Information Act has yet to be brought into full force and effect, I must emphasise that the public has an inherent right to access to the information to which access is intended to be facilitated under the Act. Every day that full implementation of the Act is delayed is an unreasonable and unconstitutional interference with that fundamental right. While successive administrations have acknowledged this fundamental right, the government has yet to discharge its obligation to vindicate that right, which remains a priority for the association.”

A right. Not an option. A right. Not an item on a to-do list. A right. Not some gift the government can bestow if it feels like it.

The Christie administration cannot hold its head up high for how it dealt with the legislation. The Minnis administration cannot do so either. And so far the Davis administration has followed their lead rather than delivering on promises.

So last year we started off with asking when this legislation would be properly implemented. This year we are doing the same. Will the same question still be being asked next year?

We salute Mr Parker for raising the issue. We hope his words are heard.

Impact of having car parts stolen and forgiveness for thief

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I HAVE just viewed the video of a businesswoman whose vehicle was retrieved after being stolen and was prompted to write the following.

I am very happy for her.

Sadly, I am not as fortunate as she was.

So you ripped the grill, bumper, and lights off my Cube, a car I made great sacrifices to purchase.

How does it make you feel knowing that you not only stole the parts of my car but left damages that will cost me more money than I can afford to replace and repair them?

Providing I can even afford to have it fixed. This is a tremendous setback, It’s like you plunged a dagger into my chest ; After not working for a long time, I just returned to work, and I’m still trying to catch myself. Now this.

I have nothing to fall back on. Man, you’re not only cold, but you are also dangerous. You came into my yard, stole, and destroyed my property, leaving me devastated.

When I look at my car, I feel like crying.

I heard you as you went about your craft early that morning, but by the time I got outside, you were already pulling away with my property in your car.

I keep thinking, what would’ve happened had I caught and confronted you head-on?

The only thing that comes to mind is one of us might have been seriously hurt or killed.

So I ask you this.”Is it worth that much to you?

How much are you going to get for my car parts, Fifty to sixty dollars is that all your life is worth”? Man, you are dangerous. But knowing the kind of person you are, you won’t stop until you’re caught. And “What about you, who brought the parts stolen from my car?

How does it feel to drive a car with stolen parts?

Do you believe that you are any better than the thief?

I’m sorry, fella. The receiver is just as bad as the thief. You are both criminals, and your day is also coming. By now, I have accepted that your actions have changed my life drastically, But I’m still wondering if the pleasure you felt while

PICTURE OF THE DAY

Not feeling increase in Visitors

EDITOR, The Tribune. OH, and isn’t it true that when it rains, it often pours?

I don’t know how it is that on the one hand the Commonwealth of Bahamas has seen a resurgence in numbers of visitors here, for the 2024 season. And that is commendable those numbers accruing per head taxes for the people’s public treasury, but the citizenry is really asking why haven’t they been feeling the increased travels there?

stealing and selling my property can ever measure up to what I felt while driving my red Cube. After some not-tooserious consideration, I concluded that my Cube gave me great pleasure, and you cannot imagine the joy I felt as I sat behind the steering wheel.

Walking to catch the bus, I observed scores of small Japanese cars similar to mine with the same damages.

It is apparent that this is a big business, but your luck will run out.

I don’t understand, and I guess I never will, what kind of satisfaction one can get by stealing from another person.

Even though My mind tries to convince me that I hope someone will do the same thing to you.

My heart won’t let me because I believe no one should treat another person like you did me.

I love and forgive you.

Thank goodness the police are now better at tracking down guys like you. In 2025, we will see many of you sent to prison.

God Bless the Bahamas

ANTHONY PRATT Nassau, January 7, 2025.

To that question I said, maybe we the people were not supposed to feel the increases, is how the facts have been revealing themselves? In some jurisdictions when people pay taxes, at the end of the tax season, they are always able to recoup percentages for what was paid, after all government money, is actually the people’s money, period. Why then have the citizenry not being given access to their funds, and by the people who were hired by electoral process to superintend the protection of the state, and lookout for the welfare of Bahamians, for assuredly, every time one reads, or hear of news clips by politicians, increases in taxes were being enunciated, why? As if the only way for governments to fund the people’s bidding, at budgetary times, is by taxing the people, what a misnomer?

Regarding the internal systems, and the people

advising the PM, does it matter, especially if they were not all qualified economics professors, at the very least have had training in this key area of finance & its overall governance...a central bank governor is the exception? Writer, what are you trying to say, that the PM (one would be unfair to the lead-man), if they believed, or expected he alone to sufficiently run it, or that his office is not qualified? No, I am not saying that, I merely wanted to know whether we have had the quality of professions that the sciences, the political science have indoctrinated, the formulas for running the formulas for running the economic and financial affairs of an entire country, does carry?

Editor, I do suppose that you all would like insights into how I was able to pick this subject? Awesome, I said all of the construction going on at the Prince George Dock, and Cruise Port, a project that had recently been completed, and wanted to see for myself?

As I ventured closer, observed the signage, explaining that the project was building a pool, and the thought, why would they need a pool? And immediately, these pictures

entered my peripheral, but there is being constructed just across the way, A Water Theme Park, owned & operated by a specific CruiseShip Company, so in a real way, tourists visiting will have little to no reason to walk Bay Street, take a taxi tour or ride, how horrible is that? But who or what is driving this notion, apparent desire to excommunicate the citizenry of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas from their own, God-given things?

Already, they, the Cruise Ships, have been acquiring many of our little cays, I didn’t say purchase, because they cannot purchase them, the Bahamian people will, shall never sell off what were for the next generations of Bahamians, period?

Editor, in conclusion and thank you very much for the space. I conclude as I began, the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, is under attack, our livelihood, our natural pristine oceans, water ways, and tranquil surroundings were being abducted by the foreign business elements. On the track now headed, very soon we will have nothing left to identify that yes, this is The Bahamas, the place that I used to know, and still is, but how is that possible given what has already transpired?

FRANK GILBERT Nassau, January 7, 2025.

Ambassador nominee and controversy

EDITOR, The Tribune

US nominee as US Ambassador to Bahamas… this a highly controversial nomination - nominee. The US is nominating for Senate Foreign Relations ratification a person who serious allegations have been made against him… not proven but in his Senate race was aired very openly. Mr Walker failed in the Senate race pundits argue the allegations killed his campaign. It is logical to beg the question - surely there is a candidate with

no such allegations against him?

Police powers to seize vehicles…fine fee to release $300.00 - surely if the vehicle owner was charged with driving without Insurance or Licence that’s enough... government re-examine this...court fine and then a police fine? You aren’t as serious on rape and murder accused. Goodman’s Baytotally agree with the letter writer the primary public beach totally unattended...benches rusted

and broken... yes parking at eastern end is seemingly filled with employees of Wynn Hotel and or construction employees. Why police allow cars to be parked on the median towards OPM-Wynn Hotel?

Serious, Editor - honestly I would reject if protocol allows the nomination from the US if and big if he passes Senate ratification. J HALL Nassau, January 7, 2025.

Have a cool, fun, interesting, amazing photo? Have it featured here in The Tribune’s picture of the day! Email your high quality image to pictureoftheday@tribunemedia.net

MEMBERS of the legal profession sitting in pews during a church service at Christ Church Cathedral to mark the opening of the legal year downtown yesterday.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Call for facility dedicated to special needs children in GB

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE Grand Bahama

Children’s Home is urgently advocating for establishing a separate facility dedicated to children with special needs.

Executive director June Hutcheson stressed that the current Home is not equipped to address the unique challenges of children on the autism spectrum, several of whom stay at the Home.

Governor General Cynthia Pratt toured the facility on Wednesday and was informed of the pressing needs of the home and the welfare of the children, particularly those with special needs. Minister

for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey and Kingsley Smith, parliamentary secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama, were also present.

Ms Hutcheson revealed that the home currently houses 23 children, seven of whom are on the autism spectrum, which comes with its challenges.

“Our special needs children need a facility to be able to cater to them and their needs,” she said. She emphasised the necessity of specialised care and resources to provide meaningful life skills and support for these children, especially as they transition into adulthood.

Ms Hutcheson acknowledged the difficulties in managing children on

the spectrum within the existing setup. “We are not equipped. We do not have persons specialised to properly manage them over time,” she explained, adding that violent outbursts and tantrums can sometimes pose risks to staff.

“If we have that home that caters to them and their needs, it will help because their outbursts, you can’t always foresee them, and sometimes they can be very violent.”

The call for a dedicated facility for children on the autism spectrum is not just a logistical necessity but a vital step toward equipping them with skills and support for a better future.

“Finding a solution that is meaningful for them is

part of that challenge,” Ms Hutcheson said.

Additionally, there is a pressing need for ongoing financial support to keep the home operational and meet the children’s needs.

While the home receives some government subsidy, it is still insufficient to cover all expenses, officials said.

“Right now, we always will need financial support,” Ms Hutcheson said.

“Our funding only comes from the generous donations of persons. We need that to be able to pay salaries, electricity, and make sure children’s needs are met.”

The community is encouraged to continue contributing food, snacks, and household

necessities. Ms Hutcheson also called for volunteers to assist with homework, art projects, and fostering opportunities, stressing the positive impact such experiences have on the children.

She expressed gratitude to corporate Bahamas for supporting the Home over the past three years.

“I am very grateful to corporate Bahamas for what they are doing,” she said. “They will even come sometimes and have play dates with the children — a fun day.”

Ms Hutcheson described the Governor General’s visit as both timely and impactful.

“One of the things she said is to make sure that the voices of the children

and the Home’s needs are out there for the community to help because there is still an assumption that we are ‘being taken care of,” she said.

Following her visit to the home, Ms Pratt proceeded to Genesis Academy, which caters to at-risk and troubled teens and is located in the Children’s Village. There, she encouraged the students and prayed over them for positive and successful outcomes in their lives.

Ms Pratt then visited the nearby Collab Housing Project Resource Centre at Tripp Circle, where she met with staff. Collab and community partners renovated the houses in the area to provide housing for displaced families.

TWO MEN AND A WOMAN QUES T IONED IN GB PORT DRUG BUS T

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

POLICE are questioning three people in connection with the recent $9m drug bust at the Freeport Container Port in Grand Bahama.

Superintendent Stephen Rolle confirmed that two men and one woman, all employees of the container port, are currently assisting police with their investigations. According to reports, the trio were at work when they

were taken into custody by police on Tuesday.

On January 1, Bahamian and US law enforcement officials acted on a tip-off and visited the container port around 1.30pm, where they discovered 498 kilos of suspected cocaine inside

a red 40-foot container.

The drugs, weighing a total of 1,277 pounds, have an estimated street value of $9.96m. No arrests were made at the time of the discovery, and investigations into the matter are ongoing.

qualifications &

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

• Basic PC knowledge

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• Processing transactions quickly and accurately

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• Handling customer inquiries

• Friendly and reliable

• Previous experience in a similar or other cashier position a plus Compensation is based on relevant experience and qualifications. Additional on-the-job training will be provided.

GOVERNOR General Dame Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt touring the Grand Bahama Children’s Home yesterday, accompanied by MP’s Kingsley Smith and Ginger Moxey.

Photos: Vandyke Hepburn

Beacons of hope, faith and joy

Persons of the Year 2024 - Rev Angela Palacious and Gail Wisdom

THERE is an irrepressible, sometimes mischievous joy to Gail Wisdom and Rev Angela Palacious. It is in part genetic. It is also born and sustained by wellsprings of faith, with cascades of enduring hope, exuding joy, humor and gladness. Both refresh the spirits of others, offering light amidst darkness.

Neither is intimidated by darkness! They know the fierce power of love and moral beauty, whether ministering and holding the hands of a mother of a newborn or a dying relative or friend. They know that love and laughter can calm or heal many infections, wounds, grievances, addictions, hurts.

Darkness colonises, settles, metastasises, in myriad hues and degrees. There are numbing and desperate winters of depression and dejection. There are dark nights of the soul, seemingly impenetrable to prayer and tears.

Societies and nations are often beset by pathological darkness, beset by those intent on extinguishing light, crushing promising dawns with neon illusions of materialism and all manner of selfish and twisted stratagems masquerading as hope.

This includes promoters of saccharine prosperity and counterfeit gospels, enriching themselves while impoverishing others of genuine hope, of spiritual and material succour, and of grace building on human nature yearning for conversion. Murderous and domestic crime and violence engulf families and family of islands. The “when I get my belly full, I don’t give a damn about da rest” indifference of those with power and mammon, who ignore the hunger and inequality of the most vulnerable, is another manifestation of darkness and moral ugliness. Such darkness is like

thick, devilish, threatening, nombastrous clouds, with a weather system of dysfunction, enveloping our land and spirits, robbing souls of warm and necessary light and horizons.

There are often deep interior cavities and cesspools of darkness with which we all struggle, lumbering for relief. Swiss psychiatrist and prolific author, Carl Jung, explored the depths of such darkness and shadows in his many works. Jung’s advice: “Knowing your own darkness is the best method for

dealing with the darknesses of other people.” Darkness transmits unrelenting stench, with no soakaway to mitigate the putridness. Darkness does not yield easily to light. Yet!

In his 2012 memoir, Open Heart, the World War II, Holocaust survivor, Elie Wiesel, rages: Even in darkness it is possible to create light and encourage compassion.”

Light requires beacons. A simple dictionary definition: Beacon: “a fire or light set up [as]…a signal or celebration”, “a lighthouse…for guidance…” We need guides and exemplars who help us to discover our better angels.

Fortunately, Rev Palacious and Gail Wisdom serve as exuberant beacons of faith, hope and joy in our Bahamas. They encourage compassion. They help to create and nourish light.

In their personal, familial, civic and professional lives, they have demonstrated the trinity of hope, faith, and joy, spiritual virtues both honed over a lifetime of struggle, sacrifice and service.

Contemporaries, inspired and shaped by the movements for racial and gender equality at home

and abroad, they share remarkable qualities.

For each, the realization of majority rule was an inclusive invitation to lift every voice, talent, and Bahamian regardless of circumstance of birth.

The lyrics of James Weldon Johnson’s, Lift Every Voice and Sing was anthem, prayer, and guide for these beacons and nation builders:

“God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way; Thou who hast by Thy might, Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray.

Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee, Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand, True to our God, True to our native land.”

They saw their womanhood as a gift, not a barrier. Both had determined mothers. Rev Palacious’s mother was a teacher. Mrs Wisdom’s mother was an entrepreneur.

The dignity of others was their lodestar. They cultivated and encouraged the light, gifts and possibilities of others, whether a young person or child in the classroom or in instruction or someone at the end of life.

In a society that craves recognition, honorifics, plaques, and high blown speeches and obituaries, these community servants humbly, happily delight in the flourishing of those they have mentored and ministered to as “reward” enough.

When the country decided to honor Mrs Wisdom earlier this year, she demurred: “I have already been honored by the privilege of helping the children and young people I’ve had the privilege of

teaching.” Likewise, Rev Palacious does not expect nor desires external honors.

St John Chrysostom (c. 347 – 407 AD) was an Early Church Father who served as Archbishop of Constantinople. He offered this spiritual direction:

“If you cannot find Christ in the beggar at the church door, you will not find Him in the chalice”. This quote is about the corporal work of mercy, which includes feeding the hungry. These modern women have exemplified this ancient wisdom.

Gail Patricia Symonette Wisdom is the first-born child of Ruth nee Williams of Bannerman Town, Eleuthera, and Kenneth Lloyd Symonette of Mathew Town, Inagua. She was born into the Fort Fincastle community.

Rev Palacious is the daughter of Addington Charles Bosfield and Cynthia nee Brown, who was born in Bermuda. The family’s homestead was on West Street. Mr Bosfield’s youngest sister was Olga Bosfield Nash, who was married to educator HO Nash.

Education was important to the Bosfield and Symonette families. As noted in Mrs Wisdom’s biography: “[She] fell under the influence of giants in the Bahamian education during her formative years and education in neighborhood at the Fibby Smith Preschool, then the Eastern Preparatory School No 1, Eastern Junior, and Western Junior Schools…

“She attended the George Town All-Age School for one year and in 1960 earned her school leaving certificate. Because there were no opportunities for secondary education on Exuma, she returned to New Providence to enter the then-all-girls Xavier’s College.”

Gail Wisdom obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Psychology in 1970 from the College of Mt St Vincent, Riverdale, New York, subsequently earning a Master’s Degree (1981) in Reading Instruction from Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan. Rev Palacious is first cousin to HO Nash Jr. and Arlene Nash Ferguson, who called Angela’s father, Uncle Buster. HO Nash Sr. was a wellknown educator. The two cousins became educators, as did Gail. Rev Palacious obtained three Masters Degrees. One each in English, Divinity, and Theology. In an emerging sovereign nation, Mrs Wisdom and Rev Palacious became master teachers, and beacons of faith, hope, and joy; fires of light, signals of celebration, lighthouses of guidance.

Next Week: Part Two

REV ANGELA P ALACIOUS

REV ANGELA P ALACIOUS

Football playoffs a welcome distraction

THIS is a belated Christmas gift for everyone irremediably weary of Donald Trump’s infantile bluster (“Gulf of America?” Annexation of Canada? Buying Greenland?) and the stubborn resistance of his political opponents to figuring out why he beat them again.

How about the distraction of some football? This may be the biggest weekend in American history for its most popular sport. From tonight through Monday, the college professionals and the professional pros will offer enticing entertainment every day.

The NFL adopted its current playoff format in 2020. Seven of the 16 teams in each of its two conferences make the postseason, with two teams (Detroit and Kansas City) getting a bye this weekend.

College football, having permitted universities to pay collegiate athletes for the use of their name, image and likeness, moved from a four-team championship playoff format to a twelve-team field this year. After two playoff rounds, four teams remain.

Here’s a look at the schedule for the next five days: Tonight: Penn State and Notre Dame meet in Miami at the Orange Bowl at 7.30. These two traditional powerhouses have played 19 times over the years, but not since 2007.

This year, Notre Dame (13-1) has lost once, by two points to underdog Northern Illinois four months ago. Northern Illinois was paid $1.4m to take a short bus ride around Chicago to South Bend, Indiana and lose to the Fighting Irish. Instead, NIU won. But since then, Notre Dame has reeled off twelve straight victories, including playoff wins over Indiana and recent national champions Georgia.

Penn State (13-2) lost to Ohio State in Columbus and then to top-ranked Oregon in the Big Ten championship game. Otherwise, they have won the games they were expected to win. The Nittany Lions have a quarterback who has developed into a star over the past month and a ball-control offense that has enabled them to tightly control most of their games. Their defense hits hard. Notre Dame was favored by 1.5 points on Tuesday. Their playoff victory over Georgia with its lineup featuring lots of future NFL stars was significant. Penn State has no comparable win. Bet on Notre Dame to cover the point spread.

Tomorrow at 7.30pm: Ohio State (12-2) faces Texas (13-2) in the Cotton

STATESIDE

Bowl near Dallas, where the Longhorns play Oklahoma every year. This is a home game for Texas, which lost twice to Georgia to blemish an otherwise unbeaten record. The Longhorns were fortunate to beat Arizona State in overtime last week in the second playoff round.

The Buckeyes lost on the road by one point to then top-ranked Oregon in October, then cruised until archrival Michigan shockingly upset them in the regular season finale for the Wolverines’ fourth straight win in this bitter series. This result seemed to finally galvanize a talented OSU team, and they routed Tennessee and then won a rematch with Oregon by three touchdowns at the Rose Bowl in Southern California.

OSU is a 5-point favorite. They should cover the

spread comfortably. Underdogs generally upset favorites much less often in college football than in the pros, and favorites have won every game so far in this year’s playoffs. That pattern should hold for another week.

Saturday at 4.30pm: The pro playoffs begin with the Los Angeles Chargers travelling to Houston. New Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh has had success in college with Stanford and Michigan and previously in the NFL with San Francisco, and his first year in LA has been a rousing success. He inherited a good but underachieving team in the Chargers and they are now playing well.

The Texans haven’t played up to expectations this year. They have suffered some key injuries, but while they did win a very weak division and defeat

outstanding QB Lamar Jackson, who seems determined to cap another MVP-caliber season with more playoff success than heretofore.

The Ravens are 9.5-point favorites at home. While it would be easy to bet on them to continue their strong season with another big win, it says here that Pittsburgh will manage to keep this game closer than the point spread. But the Steelers won’t win.

Sunday 1pm: Buffalo hosts the Denver Broncos. The hosts boast likely league MVP quarterback Josh Allen, now in his seventh and best season. Denver is led by overachieving rookie Bo Nix at QB and a typically sturdy and opportunistic defense.

The Bills are big 8.5-point favorites in a game few expect to be closely competitive. It’s for a reason. Buffalo should cover the spread.

Buffalo, this team benefited from a favorable schedule. They did get smoked at home 31-2 by the Ravens just a couple of weeks ago. The Chargers are favored on the road by three points. They should cover the point spread in what might be the most evenly matched pro game this weekend.

Saturday 8pm: Pittsburgh visits Baltimore for the second time in three weeks. Last time, the Ravens beat the Steelers by 17 points and the game wasn’t that close. Pittsburgh has had a good recent record against the Ravens in what might be the NFL’s fiercest rivalry. But this season, the Steelers rolled up ten wins against a weak schedule and then lost four in a row to better teams to stagger into the playoffs. Pittsburgh doesn’t really have much offence, and their defense is not much better than the Ravens’ defence. Baltimore features

Sunday 4.30pm: The Philadelphia Eagles host Green Bay in a game where the key factor is the health of Eagles QB Jalen Hurts. Hurts has been in the NFL’s concussion protocol for the last couple of weeks but his backups led the team to wins nonetheless. As of late Tuesday, he was expected to be cleared to start on Sunday, and the betting line should stretch out beyond the 4.5 points favoring Philadelphia on Tuesday.

The Packers won only one game in their really tough division this year, but they prevailed in almost every other contest to finish 11-6. That, astoundingly, was only good for third best in the NFC North behind Detroit and Minnesota, who only lost five games between them. Green Bay has some solid wins this year, and the team is tough and gritty. Nevertheless, the choice here is for the Eagles to win and cover the 4.5point spread. The betting line might move closer to a touchdown when Hurts is cleared to play.

Sunday 8pm: The NFL decrees that division winners host playoff games no

matter the teams’ respective records, so NFC South champion Tampa Bay hosts the Washington Commanders even though Washington won two more games this year. The Buccaneers are favored by three points, the normal edge the oddsmakers typically give to home teams. The Bucs have benefited from QB Baker Mayfield’s best season and whipped Washington by 17 points in the season opener, also at home in Tampa. But that was the first regular season game for the likely NFL offensive rookie of the year, Commanders’ quarterback Jayden Daniels. Since that opener, Daniels has dazzled the league, winning one game on the last play and nearly matching the Ravens’ Lamar Jackson in a memorable high-scoring shootout. Washington got a new owner, new coaching staff, exciting new QB and other roster additions this year. It’s hard to be sure how they will all do in a first playoff game. But the bet is on the Commanders and their young star passer.

Monday, 8pm: The Minnesota Vikings won 14 games this year but hit the road for their first playoff game against the division champion Los Angeles Rams. The Vikings are favored by 1.5 points.

All the chatter about this game has centered on Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold, who has shrugged off a mediocre career 21-34 record with two other teams to soar this year in Minneapolis. Darnold, after a terrific season, crumpled in the final game in Detroit as his Vikings failed to score a touchdown in a dismal loss. The question is whether Darnold has reverted to his normal form now or whether the Detroit game was an outlier in an otherwise fine season. The Rams, as they did last year, surged late in the season to clinch their playoff spot. They are relatively healthy, and are playoff hardened. Take the home underdogs.

NOTRE Dame’s Jayden Harrison (2) celebrates after returning a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown during the second half against Georgia in the quarterfinals of a College Football Playoff, Thursday, January 2, 2025, in New Orleans.

Photo: Matthew Hinton/AP

with Charlie Harper

OHIO State linebacker Cody Simon (0) celebrates sacking Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel during the second half in the quarterfinals of the Rose Bowl College Football Playoff, Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Pasadena, Calif.

Photo/Mark J. Terrill/AP

LOS Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams (23) walks on the field before an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif.

Photo: Kyusung Gong/AP

DENVER Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) in the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, in Denver.

Photo: David Zalubowski/AP

Widespread power outage hits Abaco after two engines go

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter

A WIDESPREAD power outage struck Abaco yesterday after two Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) engines unexpectedly tripped offline at its Wilson City Power Station, sparking frustration among residents.

BPL’s communications manager, Arnette Ingraham, confirmed the outage began early Thursday

morning, affecting areas in Central and South Abaco and the surrounding cays, with the exception of North Abaco.

While service was briefly restored just before 7am, the second operational unit soon developed issues and went offline.

In response, BPL teams began working to start up a third available unit at the Wilson City Power Station while troubleshooting the cause of the failures on the other two units.

When The Tribune contacted BPL, officials were unable to provide a time for complete restoration but confirmed that load shedding had occurred until full restoration.

The company later reported that teams were making steady progress in supplying areas incrementally.

While some communities, such as Green Turtle Cay, had power restored sooner, other areas continued to experience outages as BPL

GOVT DELAYS IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW ROAD TR AFFIC A MENDMENT ACT

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter

lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

THE government has announced that full implementation of the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act 2024, which includes significant changes to vehicle licensing and insurance requirements, will not take effect until 2026, allowing for a transitional period in 2025.

The reforms, originally slated to take effect in January 2025, would require drivers to renew their vehicle licences and insurance policies in the same month, tied to their birth month. Additionally, drivers would need to have at least six months of insurance coverage to renew their vehicle licence. Police officers would also gain new powers to seize uninsured and unlicensed vehicles, with owners required to pay a $300 fee to recover their cars.

However, the Ministry of Energy and Transport

has confirmed that the transitional period will extend into 2025, during which drivers renewing vehicle licences can present an unexpired insurance policy. Upon the policy’s expiration, vehicle owners must obtain insurance with a minimum coverage of six months.

The ministry said the delay is intended to allow stakeholders, including the Insurance Commission, the Road Traffic Department, and the Royal Bahamas Police Force, to ensure a smooth transition.

“According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force, in 2024, more than 4,000 traffic tickets were issued for unlicensed and uninsured vehicles. The presence of unlicensed and uninsured vehicles on the road compromises public safety and places road users at greater risk of loss,” the ministry said in a press release.

Before the ministry’s statement, the delay had caused significant confusion among insurers and

the public. Anton Saunders, Managing Director of RoyalStar Assurance, noted that insurers were unclear on how to proceed. “Someone needs to clarify what is actually required right now. Without that, there’s no way for the industry or the public to move forward confidently,” he told Tribune Business earlier this week.

The ministry has urged Bahamians to consult the Insurance Commission of The Bahamas’ website and their insurers for guidance.

Despite the delay, the government reiterated its commitment to ensuring compliance with the amended Act, which is part of its strategy to reduce the estimated 30-40 percent of uninsured vehicles on Bahamian roads.

The ministry also emphasised its dedication to improving road safety and maintaining dialogue with stakeholders to finalise and implement the new rules.

worked to stabilise the grid.

Ms Ingraham explained that power supply was being rotated on mainland Abaco and certain cays, with standby generators brought online to service affected communities.

She said officials were aiming to have one of the units back online by last night.

Junior Mernard of Hope Town said the outage was surprising as the island had not experienced a widespread power cut in some

time.

“Fortunately, it’s not summer,” he said. “If this was summer, it would’ve been worse. This winter has not been so bad. The fortunate thing for hope town. I cannot say this for the mainland of Abaco but most people here have backup generator.”

Daphne DeGregoryMiaoulis, Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president, described the power outages as a nuisance, saying that they were neither

beneficial nor efficient for providing proper customer service.

This latest power cut comes as some residents express frustration over the unreliable electricity supply.

Last month, residents of Guana Cay reported that the island has endured frequent power outages for over a year.

They attributed the island’s utility issues to freight boats damaging the underwater power line during low tide.

is seeking qualifed applicants for the following positions:

TRUCK DRIVER

Qualifcations:

• Valid Driver’s License

• Must be at least 25 years of age

• Proven work experience driving 16ft. to 24 ft. box/reefer trucks

• No driving violations for at least previous 24 months

• Possession of a valid Class C Commercial Drivers License a plus

• Willing to submit to background/drug checks and provide employment recommendations

Responsibilities:

• Transport product to specifed customers as required

• Maintaining delivery schedules

• Carrying out loading, unloading or providing assistance for loading as well as unloading the truck as required

• Collecting payments on behalf of the company from time-to-time

FORKLIFT OPERATOR

Qualifcations:

• Valid Driver’s License

• Proven ability to operate stand up and/or seated forklifts

• Clean police record

Responsibilities:

• Operating a forklift to move, locate, relocate, load, unload, stack and stage product in a fast-paced warehouse environment

• Maintain forklift equipment by troubleshooting breakdowns, performing preventive maintenance, recommending repairs and performing routine pre and post inspections

Interested persons can submit their application by January 31, 2025 to: Attention of the Human Resources Manager. Hard Copy: The D’Albenas Agency Ltd., Palmdale; or email: HR@dalbenas.com

“The d’Albenas Agency ltd. was established in 1947 and is one of the top local wholesalers in The Bahamas. We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest in joining our team, however, only those applications being considered will be contacted.”

WILSON CITY POWER STATION IN ABACO

Search for next UB president narrowed to three finalists

from page one

Dr Blaine III has leadership experience, including in SACSCOC accreditation and fundraising. He currently serves as senior executive and director of the Centre for Lead and the Centre for Municipal Practice, National League

of Cities. Dr Hamilton Jr has experience in both community college and university environments. He has served as a SACSCOC accreditation liaison and successfully secured substantial grant funding.

“The selection of these

finalists represents months of dedicated effort by the nine-member presidential search committee supported by AGB Search, a renowned executive search consulting firm,” UB added.

“The PSC has thoroughly evaluated over 90

Forecaster says polar vortex will have little impact on temperatures in Bahamas

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

AS parts of the United States brace for the bitter cold brought on by a polar vortex, The Bahamas can expect to experience only mild effects from the associated cold fronts.

Temperatures in Florida and other southeastern states have dropped significantly. Meteorologists describe the polar vortex as a large mass of frigid air originating from the upper levels of the troposphere over the polar regions. This cold air occasionally drifts southward, leading to dramatic temperature drops in higher latitudes. The northeastern United States is currently under its grip, with temperatures plummeting to atypical lows for January, and parts of Florida seeing freezing conditions.

Charvari Watson Rahming, an operational forecaster with the Bahamas Department of Meteorology, explained that the polar vortex itself

rarely directly affects the Bahamas. Instead, it is felt through the cold fronts it triggers as the air mass moves south, which carries cooler, dry air but loses much of its intensity as it crosses over the surrounding warm waters of the Caribbean.

Grand Bahama recently recorded a low of 55°F, a noticeable dip for the region but far from freezing. This starkly contrasts with the US, where snow, ice, and subzero temperatures have disrupted daily life in many states.

Ms Rahming highlighted two key factors that protect The Bahamas from the full brunt of polar vortex impacts: latitude and the marine influence.

“Even when cold fronts reach us, they’re modified as they cross over the warm marine environment, making it rare for temperatures to drop to extreme levels,” she explained.

“Once that cold air really starts to move off of the US, it begins to

get modified. We call it modified, in essence. So, the colder air, once it gets to the Bahamas, brings pretty cold, notably colder temperatures, especially for Grand Bahama and Abaco. But as it filters down, the effects of that colder air start to lessen or diminish because it’s moving over the marine environment. It’s starting to change from more of that continental dry air to a marine-type air mass that wouldn’t hold so much cold temperatures.”

January is historically the coldest month for tThe Bahamas, and this year is no exception. However, the season’s typical weather patterns—cool breezes and lower humidity— are expected to continue without any significant disruptions. Residents can expect mild and pleasant conditions through March, as the region experiences the occasional cold front, according to the meteorologist.

candidates who responded to the presidential profile outlining the strategic vision for the university as well as the expectations, priorities and opportunities for leadership.”

UB added that the next phase will involve each finalist separately visiting

the university’s Oakes Field Campus to engage with key stakeholders, staff, students and community leaders.

Each finalist will also meet with Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin and her team.

Stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide

feedback to inform the board of trustees’ final decision.

UB said details on the candidates’ curricula vitae and opportunities for stakeholder engagement will be posted soon on the presidential search website.

Immigration has final say in approving permits for entertainers, says director

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

DIRECTOR of Immi-

gration William Pratt

emphasised yesterday that his department has the final say in approving permits for entertainers entering The Bahamas amid significant union objections to a planned Vybz Kartel concert.

He said an application for the entertainer to perform in the country has not yet been submitted to his department.

“They must have a letter of support from the Musicians Union,” he said.

“Then we also would do our in-house checks, like referring the matter to the Royal Bahamas Police Force to see if they have any objections. Once the union is cleared and the police are cleared, we would normally approve the short-term permit.

Applications for shortterm permits include a $200 non-refundable processing fee and must be submitted ten to 14 days before the scheduled event. Mr Pratt noted that the turnaround time for approval is typically three to five business days.

“Normally, when they come to us, they would have a letter from the musician union already, whether they object or they approve. If the union objects, the application probably won’t be considered,” he explained. However, he added that the immigration board would make the final decision on the application being considered. The department’s website states that entertainers seeking a short-term work permit must include a letter of authorisation from The Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union.

Regarding Vybez Kartel, Mr Pratt said, “Honestly, I don’t know his background. I haven’t received any background information on him, no more than what I have heard talking. However, we would do our own background and interpol searches with the police, and if the record is not good, then of course, that would definitely not be granted. We are not going to bring no persons in with no bad character.”

The planned concert, potentially one of the biggest ever held in the country, is facing opposition from unions, which argue that the event, while potentially appealing to the public, is not “in the best interest of the development of our country”.

The concert, organised by International Events and Production with sponsorship from Aliv and Bahamasair, is scheduled for March.

MOTHER FAILS TO APPEAR FOR SENTENCING ON CHARGE WITH CRUELTY TO CHILDREN

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 23-YEAR-OLD woman who admitted to leaving her six-year-old daughter home alone last month, resulting in the child wandering along Market Street, failed to appear for her sentencing yesterday.

Senior Magistrate Anishka Isaacs had arraigned the woman on a charge of cruelty to children in December.

A concerned citizen reportedly alerted police to the child wandering Market Street at 12.45pm on December 13. When the child’s mother was apprehended, she admitted to leaving her daughter home alone but

claimed she had left the child in a room monitored by cameras. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge.

Magistrate Isaacs deferred sentencing until she could speak with the accused’s sister, but the defendant failed to appear for her subsequent court hearing.

Magistrate Isaacs warned the prosecution that if the defendant fails to appear for her next court date on January 13, a warrant will be issued for her arrest. The defendant had previously been warned about the consequences of missing court dates and was released on her own recognisance.

When Magistrate Isaacs asked her to explain her actions, the mother said she had no one to watch her daughter and could not call in sick to her job as a gas station cashier. She admitted that when things got busy at work, she stopped monitoring the phone camera and did not see when her daughter left the house. The defendant added that her sister could not babysit and that she was not in contact with the child’s father or her father. She also claimed that her mother was unfit to care for the child due to drug abuse. When Magistrate Isaacs inquired about the child’s current whereabouts, the defendant said her daughter was in the custody of her sister.

GUN POSSESSION CHARGE WHILE ON BAIL FOR MURDER

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN awaiting trial for murder was granted bail yesterday after being accused of possessing a loaded gun in the parking lot of Johnny’s Restaurant and Bar on Cowpen Road last week.

Magistrate L ennox Coleby arraigned 42-yearold Jermaine Scott on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of

ammunition. Scott was allegedly found with a grey and silver Ruger P90 pistol and eight rounds of ammunition outside the bar on January 5. At the time of the alleged offence, Scott was out on bail awaiting trial for the murder of Alejandro Bain, who was killed on April 20, 2013. Scott pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was granted $7,500 bail with one or two sureties. As part of his bail

conditions, Scott will be fitted with a monitoring device, must adhere to an 8pm to 7am residential curfew, and is prohibited from being on Cowpen Road.

Magistrate Coleby sternly warned Scott that failure to comply with any of these conditions would result in his bail being revoked.

The trial is scheduled to begin on March 31.

Assistant Superintendent of Police S Coakley served as the prosecutor.

MAN CHARGED WITH ROBBERY AND THREATS OF DEATH

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was granted bail after being accused of robbing another man of cash and threatening to kill him last month.

Senior Magistrate Anishka Isaacs arraigned 29-year-old Emmanuel Miller on charges of

robbery and threats of death.

Miller allegedly stole $80 from Christopher Knowles on December 8, 2024, in New Providence. During the incident, Miller allegedly threatened Mr Knowles with death.

While Miller pleaded guilty to the robbery charge, he pleaded not

guilty to the charge of making threats of death.

Sentencing on the robbery charge has been deferred until the conclusion of his trial for the threats charge, which is scheduled to begin on February 28. Miller was released on $1,500 bail with one or two sureties until his next court appearance.

VYBZ KARTEL

MIRACLE LIFE MINISTRIES USHERS IN 2025 ON STRONG NOTE

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

MIRACLE Life Ministries closed the year out on a strong note and with a focus on expanding in kingdom areas, manifesting in wealth, vision and rapid growth.

This is the focus of the ministry for this new year and all of its efforts will be centred around seeing those goals realise.

The vision for 2025 was released to the church during its special Watch Night service; a “powerful and inspiring time to give thanks for the previous year and pray for blessings for the new year”.

“Our New Year’s message focused on 2025 being our year of cairo moments, said Minister Adena Young.

This was the main thrust of the message shared during the service.

“The exegetical text was Luke chapter 13 vs. 6-9,

which speaks about the vine dresser and years of experiencing no fruit. The vine dresser became discouraged. But God is saying to us, don’t give up! Give it just one more year! He has planted us where we are because a shift is on the way. There’s no time to waste. “We have no more time to waste. Also, it’s the day of our Salvation. 365 days of transferred wealth. It means we can step into our timing and season of blessings.The currency of time

is life, so we are stepping into the timing of God,” she said.

The church’s main focus she said is wrapped in our 2025 vision that the Lord has given to us. It is Kingdom Expansion, manifesting in wealth, vision and rapid growth.

A main highlight from the service is hearing the testimonies of parishioners who testified to God’s goodness last year.

“Our highlights are always the testimonials that confirms the Word of God

prophesied to his people. Last year was no different. One of our couples got a word that they would give birth to a son, after a couple of years of trying. They welcomed their first child, a beautiful healthy boy. Another member was diagnosed with cancer. But the Word of God was declared over him, and now he is cancer free, testifying to the faithfulness of God.”

The service was an all around uplifting encounter, Minister Young said.

The ministry also took an opportunity to give back to members.

“We closed out the year with giveaways to our members. While giving should not be limited to a particular time of the year, it’s during this time of year when most persons tend to exchange tokens of love and appreciation to loved ones. So we took this opportunity to give to our members, to express our love and gratitude for their support and

faithfulness. We wanted to give something tangible that they could use. So we gave gift certificates to leading grocery stores and wholesale businesses,” she said.

The church leadership is also very proud of its community outreach last year with first health seminar. Minister Young said; “Our presenters included Julian Smith, owner of New Life Natural Company, who spoke concerning natural healthy eating. We also had a representative from the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, who discussed mental health.

Our final presenter spoke on our well-being. In February, we had our matters of the heart series led by Apostle Munroe. Our panel included Harrison Thompson, relationship consultant, Minister Sherika Brown, and others.

“As we not only look to strengthen our relationship with each other, we most

certainly want to continue strengthening our relationship with God, which prompted us to hold our Pray, Push, Deliver Vol. 2 series, hosted by Pastor Cynara Munroe. Our guest speaker was Prophetess Jasmin Dareus.

“Unfortunately, our back-to-school giveaway event, which is held every year for the community, was canceled due to inclement weather. We assisted the kids in the ministry, nonetheless.”

This year, the ministry hopes to expand its evangelism efforts to “draw souls into the kingdom, whether it’s through invitation, testimonials, relationship, or service”.

“Taking it out of the four walls and into the community and beyond. In the upcoming months, we will be out on the streets, in the communities, at the hospitals, etc, proclaiming the word of God,” Minister Young told Tribune Religion.

‘MARCH FOR JESUS’ SET TO BRING COMMUNITY TOGETHER IN GOVERNOR’S HARBOUR

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THE Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, community is set to come alive with joyful singing, heartfelt prayer, and unity as the “March for Jesus” takes to the streets on Saturday, January 11. This annual event, hosted by the Glory Carrier’s for Christ Street

Ministry, will run from 7am to 12pm, beginning and ending at the Administrator’s Building. Under the theme “Setting Apart Our First Fruit: A Heartfelt Offering of Worship to God,” this year’s march invites individuals, families, and groups from all walks of life to join in a vibrant celebration of faith and love. Founder and event host Stacy Petty-Rodgers

describes the theme as a reminder to give God not only the first portion of our lives but also the purest and most sincere praise.

Ms Rodgers expressed that this is more than a march - it’s a powerful act of worship and unity. She and her team is setting the tone for the year by offering the organisation’s best to God and uplifting the community through faith.

The Glory Carrier’s for Christ Street Ministry is no stranger to acts of love and service. From hosting retreats to organising food drives, the ministry has been a beacon of hope for many on the island. One of its standout initiatives last year was a women’s retreat, themed “Young Women – The Older Women Are Waiting at the Well”. Ms Rodgers explained that the retreat sought to bridge generational gaps, fostering connections between young women and older, godly women in a judgment-free environment.

“We saw so many young women being embraced, mentored, and loved without judgment. It was the first retreat of its kind in Eleuthera, and it was truly a God-ordained moment,” she said.

Another signature effort of the ministry has been its food drives, which began in February 2021 at Kemp

Road Ministry and have since expanded. The initiative feeds not just the body but also the soul and mind, Ms Rodgers explained.

“During our first feeding initiative, the response from the community was overwhelming. We saw lives being changed, not just physically but spiritually and mentally. The Holy Spirit has been our guide, ensuring every need is met,” she said.

Ms Rodgers attributes the success of the ministry’s initiatives to the dedication of a hardworking and prayerful team. She expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the Eleuthera business community and emphasised the ministry’s commitment to preserving the dignity of those they serve.

“One thing the Holy Spirit instructed me was to allow no cameras at our events. We don’t take photos of people receiving food or care packages. If we

Career Opportunity

trust God, He will provide, and He has, time and time again,” Ms Rodgers said. The ministry’s food drives, which initially focused on breakfast items such as grits, corned beef, and steamed tuna, now aims to expand to lunch options. Ms Rodgers and her team remain steadfast in their mission to extend God’s love through practical acts of kindness. As the community prepares for the March for Jesus, she is hopeful for a transformative experience for all who attend.

Ms Rodgers said this is an opportunity to walk in faith, celebrate unity, and offer a sincere praise to God. The Glory Seekers are honoured to carry out this assignment and watch as everything falls into place by His grace. For more information about the March for Jesus or to join the event, contact the Glory Carrier’s for Christ Street Ministry at stacyrodgers95@gmail.com.

We Are Growing and Have an Exciting New Opportunity For You!

If you possess the qualities below, we invite you to apply for the position of:

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Since inception in 1997, RF Group has been committed to helping clients create and manage wealth. We are your local private bank connecting Bahamians with the best in local and international investments.

The role of the Senior Accountant provides fnancial accounting and reporting services for the RF Group companies in the areas of fnance and fund administration

Key Responsibilities:

Produce the Month-End Financial Reporting

• Financial Reports Analysis

• Monthly record maintenance of Fund Accounting records Monthly system review, calculation, analysis and investigation of net asset value of the fund (NAV).

• Produce annual fnancial reports for the calendar year within forty-fve (45) days of the year-end. Liaise with audit team to provide audit deliverables within deadlines

• Timely submission of fnancial reports and information to regulatory authorities Regulatory Tax Return flings to relevant Government Agencies

Key Qualifcations & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or related feld. Professional Accounting Designation (i.e., CPA/ ACCA) Required

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Please apply online at: https://www.rfgroup.com/careers Deadline to Apply is Friday, 17th January 2025

Jahni McPhee inks deal with the Chicago Cubs

still have a long way to go. It is like a stepping stone in the right direction but I have to take it one step at a time.The big goal is to get to the big leagues. I also have small goals like trying to reach a certain amount of weight on my body while getting faster and stronger,” he said. It is almost every young baseball player’s dream to climb the ranks during their career. As for the 18-yearold outfielder, when the opportunity to join the Chicago Cubs was presented to him, it was a dream come true. “My choice to sign with the Chicago Cubs was a big one. To get here I had to put in a lot of hard work, had to be dedicated and the offer they were giving me was a big one. I really thought about it and they got me on certain stuff they were talking about and that

is why I chose them,” he said. The 5-foot-11 outfielder initially began his baseball journey playing at YMCA in the nation’s second city. He played in Grand Bahama up until 2019, when he joined I-Elite Sports Academy at just 12-years-old.

The newest addition to the Chicago Cubs minor league pipeline spoke about the instrumental role I-Elite has played in helping him to achieve this milestone.

“It was a big decision for my parents and I to move from Freeport to come over here in the city to play baseball.

“I-Elite has helped me a lot because it grew me as a person and it helped me to become the person I am today. It taught me to be more disciplined, strong, focused and not just focused on the field but also in the class. It also taught

me that baseball is a mental game so I learned to be mentally strong,” he said.

McPhee thanked I-Elite, his coaches, family and friends for supporting him on this journey.

In a show of support on social media, the I-Elite Sports Academy extended a special congratulations to the class of 2025 prospect.

“Jahni, your hard work, dedication and passion for the game have truly paid off and we couldn’t be more excited for your next chapter.

“The entire team at International Elite Sports Academy is cheering you on as you take on this incredible step in your baseball journey.

“We wish you all the success, growth and blessings in this new chapter of your career. Keep pushing, keep striving and keep making us proud,” the post stated. It is expected that more

ink

Wrestler Shannon Hanna II thriving

on a singlet with my teammates feels good and we have five seniors on the team so it is our last year to do something big. It just feels good to be back and be a part of that,” Hanna said.

Despite being out of the mix last season, the 2024 Pan-Am bronze medallist has already picked up right where he left off on the collegiate wrestling scene.

He along with the Fighting Camels recently competed at the 2025 Southern Scuffle Tournament in Chattanooga, Tennessee over the weekend.

The 5-foot-8 collegiate wrestler walked away from the tournament with a fourth place finish.

After opening the tourney with a 3-0 record, Hanna just missed out on a top three finish after falling to Army West Point’s Richard Treanor via fall in the 141 pounds division.

The Campbell wrestler ended the tournament appearance with a 4-2 win/

loss record while his team wrapped up with a total of 86.5 points for sixth overall.

He shared his thoughts on the performance at the 2025 Southern Scuffle Tournament.

“The tournament had some ups and downs for me.

My goal is always to win the tournament and I always want to get first place. I lost in the semifinals to an opponent I beat before but kudos to him because he has gotten a lot better. It was a good experience. My team wrestled very great and to see everyone go out there and just wrestle at their best felt really good to be apart of…The Southern Scuffle is one of the hardest tournaments in the country so it was cool to be a part of that,” he said.

Back in December, the amateur wrestler was selected as the Southern Conference Wrestler of the Week.

During this time, he went 3-0 in competition against Wisconsin, North Dakota State and the no.22 ranked West Virginia at

the Knockout Christmas Classic.

He defeated Wisconsin’s Brock Bobzien via a 7-3 decision. He followed up this victory with another, this time against North Dakota’s Michael Olson via a 4-2 decision.

Hanna’s most notable victory during this run came against West Virginia’s ranked opponent Jordan Titus. The Campbell University graduate student handed Titus a 4-2 loss.

The gifted wrestler, who hauled away three international medals last year, credited those experiences for allowing him to improve his craft.

“Being able to wrestle some of the best wrestlers in the world and just be in the community internationally, learning from different styles and different countries and even watching Team USA and Team Japan and seeing how they trained definitely changed my outlook and approach to the sport. It really inspired me and changed how I train and I feel like it prepared

SCHOOL teach-

ers attended the Every Bahamian Swimming Initiative Launch at the Andre Rodgers Stadium on Wednesday, January 8. The initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Education and Technical and Vocational Training and the Sean Connery Foundation.

The initiative is designed to revolutionise water safety and swimming proficiency across The Bahamas.

It is also a call to action to ensure every Bahamian, starting with students, to gain the skills and confidence to navigate, enjoy and thrive in and around water.

Holly Gordon, the executive director of the Sean Connery Foundation, and her team joined in the training session.

Jeff Ellis Management, a global leader in pool management and aquatics training, is providing state-of-the-art equipment and world-class expertise to ensure excellence in implementation.

The Jeff Ellis Management trains the Disney lifeguards.

me mentally and in some ways physically.

“The biggest improvement would be belief. I was blessed because a lot of people do not have that opportunity to wrestle with guys that are not from the USA.

“It really gave me a confidence boost knowing that I got to put my hands on people from all around the world and learn from wrestlers all around the world,” he said.

His biggest goal for 2025 is to continue to God’s light shine through him every time that he lays it all out on the wrestling mat. Hanna and the Campbell University Fighting Camels will make their commute to Lancaster, Pennsylvania where they will compete at the David H Lehman 68’ Open hosted at the Franklin & Marshall College on Friday.

Antoan Richardson hosts free kids’ camp

once again. “It feels really good. I think it is super important that we are able to leverage our relationships for the benefit of our young people. To be able to tap into that network, some of their resources to help us give back to our community and our people is super important. I think that is the purpose of doing some of the jobs we are doing to be able to build and make relationships to help others,” he said.

Victor Quiroga, director of international relations for the MLBPAA, said it was a pleasure to partner with LDK Performance for the second time and is looking forward to more opportunities to grow the sport in the future.

“One of our missions is to grow the sport of baseball for the MLBPAA. We are close with Antoan since he is a former player so we are helping him here in The Bahamas to grow the sport. This is the second time we got to do a clinic like this. We started last year and hopefully we can keep helping him increase the sport here,” he said.

Seth Moxey, 13, attended Tuesday’s kids camp and he said that the experience was very enjoyable. “It has been really nice, especially having familiarity with a

Bahamian baseball players will

deals in upcoming weeks as the 2025

MLB International Signing Period officially opens on January 15.

JAHNI McPhee has signed a deal with the Chicago Cubs.

JAHNI McPhee has signed a deal with the Chicago Cubs.

CAMPERS follow instructions given by New York Mets first base coach Antoan Richardson yesterday as he hosted a free kids’ camp at the Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium.

Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr

Pro Picks: Texans, Ravens, Bills, Eagles, Bucs and Vikings will advance to the next round

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer

THE NFL’s wild-card weekend features divisional rivals facing off, two NFC rematches from Week 1 and the Harbaugh brothers coaching on the same day.

Jim Harbaugh leads the Chargers against the Texans in the season’s first playoff game on Saturday afternoon. Then it’s John Harbaugh’s Ravens against Mike Tomlin’s Steelers in the nightcap.

Sean Payton has the Broncos in the playoffs for the first time in nine years. But they’ve got a tough matchup on the road against the Bills on Sunday afternoon.

Next the Packers visit the Eagles in a rematch from the season opener in Brazil. Philadelphia won that one, 34-29.

The Commanders take on the Buccaneers in another rematch from the first weekend of the season to wrap up the tripleheader on Sunday. Tampa Bay opened with a 37-20 win against Washington.

Sean McVay and the Rams host Kevin O’Connell and the Vikings on Monday night in the last wild-card game. O’Connell served as offensive coordinator on McVay’s staff in 2020-21 before going to Minnesota.

The spreads for the three NFC games are under 4 1/2 points, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. The AFC has the two largest spreads.

Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) at Houston (10-7)

Line: Chargers minus 3 Justin Herbert’s only playoff game ended with the Chargers blowing a 27-0 lead against the Jaguars in the wild-card round two years ago. He’s got a different cast around him featuring rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey and a run game led by J.K. Dobbins.

The Texans are limping into the playoffs after losing two in a row to the Chiefs and Ravens before the backups ended the season with a win. C.J. Stroud and the offence are missing top receivers Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell so Houston will rely more on Joe Mixon running the ball. Stroud and

By HOWARD FENDRICH

IF it seems as though the 2025 professional tennis year started pretty much immediately right after 2024 ended, that’s because that’s exactly what happens in a sport where the offseason really does not leave players much time to be “off.” Actually, for tennis, 2025 began while the calendar still read 2024.

“I do, obviously, wish that the offseason was longer, 100%,” said 2023 U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff, who began her “year” by helping the American team win the United Cup title in Sydney, more than a week after that competition began on Dec. 27. “But it is what it is.”

When the Australian Open gets going Sunday morning in Melbourne (Saturday night EST), players will have tuned up by playing in various events that followed a period of practice and work in the gym that was longer for some than others.

“I wouldn’t say there is even an offseason anymore,” 2021 Wimbledon semifinalist Denis Shapovalov said. “The season is never-ending.” For the record, last season officially and finally wrapped up for good on

coach DeMeco Ryans led the Texans to a playoff win last year and edge rusher Will Anderson’s return should boost the defence.

The Chargers are an NFL-best 12-5 against the spread, including 7-2 on the road. Houston is 7-8-2 ATS, including 1-5 as an underdog and 0-2 straight up as a home underdog. All the odds favour Los Angeles.

UPSET SPECIAL: TEXANS: 23-21 Pittsburgh (10-7) at Baltimore (12-5)

Line: Ravens minus 9 1/2

Russell Wilson and the Steelers are skidding into the playoffs after losing four straight games to end the season. Tomlin hasn’t won a playoff game in eight years and this will be a major challenge as the Steelers are the biggest underdog of the weekend going against Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry and the Ravens.

But Pittsburgh has been a tough opponent for Jackson throughout this rivalry. He beat the Steelers for just the second time in six starts in Week 16.

T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Patrick Queen and the rest of Pittsburgh’s stout defence have to find a way to slow down Jackson and Henry.

The Ravens were the first team in NFL history to pass for at least 4,000 yards and run for at least 3,000. But Baltimore might be without Pro Bowl wideout Zay Flowers because of a knee injury.

December 22, when Brazil’s João Fonseca won the ATP Next Gen Finals in Saudi Arabia. He was back on a court later in December for the Challenger Tour stop in Canberra, Australia — which he also won.

The golf season is similar, essentially running nonstop, without the multiple months off offered by team sports.

“For a long time, we (have been) fighting to have a longer offseason. To be healthy … you at least need a two-month offseason. So it would be great to finish a little bit earlier,” said Conchita Martinez, a former player who won the 1994 Wimbledon championship and is now the coach of Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva.

“For the health of the tour, for the health of the players,” Martinez said, “maybe (the season) should be a little bit shorter.”

This is, to be sure, not a new concern. Yet nothing seems to have changed. If anything, the problem is becoming more pronounced.

And to Martinez’s point, the opening week of this season included two singles finals in which one player stopped playing — Naomi Osaka in Auckland, New Zealand, and Reilly Opelka in Brisbane, Australia — because of an injury

The Steelers need a big game from Wilson throwing to George Pickens and Najee Harris running to stay in the game.

RAVENS: 27-20

Denver (10-7) at Buffalo (13-4)

Line: Bills minus 9 Josh Allen has been on a mission since the start of the season. Buffalo’s franchise quarterback is determined to erase playoff failures and he’s stepped up without a star-studded supporting cast. James Cook ran for 1,009 yards and wide receiver Khalil Shakir had a breakout season. They’ll go against a fierce defence featuring cornerback Patrick Surtain II, defensive tackle Zach Allen and edge rusher Nik Bonitto.

Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix had an impressive season, but he’s got a tough task going against a defence that’s made life rough on firstyear signal-callers under coach Sean McDermott. The Bills are 9-4 against rookie QBs with McDermott and have allowed just seven touchdown passes and 17 interceptions in those games.

BILLS: 26-19

Green Bay (11-6) at Philadelphia (14-3)

Line: Eagles minus 4 1/2

Jalen Hurts hasn’t played in three weeks and Saquon Barkley and other starters rested the final game. The Eagles have to shake off the rust against one of the most formidable No. 7 seeds since the NFL

expanded the playoffs to 14 teams in 2020. No. 2 seeds are 7-1 in these matchups, but the Packers were the only seventh seed to win, beating Dallas 48-32 last year.

Barkley, who ran for 2,005 yards in 16 games to lead the league’s No. 2 run offence, will be facing a strong run defence. Green Bay allowed just 99.4 yards per game on the ground.

Jordan Love, Josh Jacobs and the Packers’ offence faces the league’s No. 1 defence. The Eagles gave up the fewest total yards and second-fewest points at 17.8 per game. Green Bay’s defence is missing top cornerback Jaire Alexander.

The Packers were 2-0 against the spread this season as a road underdog. The Eagles were 11-6 ATS.

BEST BET: EAGLES: 26-20

Washington (12-5) at Tampa Bay (10-7)

Line: Buccaneers minus 3 Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers aren’t satisfied just getting to the playoffs after winning a fourth straight NFC South title. Mayfield, Mike Evans, Bucky Irving and the rest of Tampa Bay’s high-powered offence are going to have to score a lot of points because the defence is depleted.

Todd Bowles has a track record of success against rookie quarterbacks and the Buccaneers held Jayden Daniels in check in his first NFL game. He’s come a long way

LEBRON BREAKS JORDAN’S RECORD FOR 30-POINT GAMES

By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports Writer

LOS ANGELES (AP)

— LeBron James broke Michael Jordan’s NBA record for 30-point games during the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory over Atlanta on January 3.

With a turnaround jumper with 5:58 to play for the last of his 30 points, James reached at least 30 points in the regular season for the 563rd time in his career, surpassing the mark established by Jordan in 2003. Jordan set his record in 1,072 games over 15 seasons, while James surpassed it in his 1,523rd appearance over 22 seasons.

since his debut and led an impressive turnaround in Washington along with coach Dan Quinn. The Commanders are seeking their first playoff win since beating Tampa Bay in the 2006 playoffs. The No. 6 seed Buccaneers were 3-2 ATS as a home favourite this season. The No. 3 seed Commanders were 2-2-1 ATS as a road underdog.

BUCCANEERS: 27-26

Minnesota (14-3) at Los Angeles Rams (10-7)

Line: Vikings minus 1 Struggles inside the red zone cost Sam Darnold and the Vikings against the Lions in a showdown for the NFC’s No. 1 seed. Instead of a bye, Minnesota hits the road and is a favourite in this 4-5 matchup.

Matthew Stafford led the Rams to a 30-20 victory over the Vikings on a Thursday night in Week 8. He threw four touchdown passes and benefited from the return of Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp from injuries. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores should have Minnesota’s defence ready for the rematch. The Vikings are reeling from giving up 31 points against Detroit.

The Rams are 4-2 ATS as home underdogs. The Vikings are 3-2 ATS as road favourites.

VIKINGS: 25-22

column where AP Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi shares his picks for upcoming games.

concern (it’s also likely they wanted to make sure not to push themselves too hard with the year’s first Grand Slam tournament on the horizon).

That’s why, as much as possible, the athletes try to find some down time before getting ready to ramp up for what’s to come.

“I had 1½ weeks that I didn’t touch the tennis racket. I just threw it in my room. I didn’t want to see it again,” four-time major champ Carlos Alcaraz joked. “It was really helpful to disconnect a little bit.”

They say they view the time between seasons, however brief it might be, as an opportunity for a combination of rest and relaxation — the Maldives is a popular vacation spot, as a glance at player’ social media makes clear — along with training and preparation, with an eye on trying to improve in some way.

“You take a bit of a break. But you need to get right back on the court and in the gym to get ready for Australia,” said Jasmine Paolini, the runner-up at the French Open and Wimbledon in 2024. “As soon

as you can, you need to practice, but there isn’t a lot of time, so you have to figure out how to schedule things.” Ben Shelton, a big server who was a quarterfinalist at the Australian Open and U.S. Open two years ago, spent time on his return game this offseason. He was representing the United States at the Davis Cup in Spain in late November, then playing an exhibition match at Madison Square Garden in early December, before heading to his new home, Orlando, Florida, to get ready for January.

“It’s very humbling,” James said. “Anytime I’m mentioned with any of the greats, and arguably the greatest ever to play the game, super-cool. It’s someone I idolised in my childhood, and I wear 23 because of him. So to know that I can sit here and be in the room or in the conversation or whatever it is, you mention MJ, it’s like superduper dope for me, being a kid where I’m from.” James turned 40 last week, and he is among the few remaining active players who personally witnessed Jordan in his 1990s prime with the Chicago Bulls. He studied and admired Jordan during his childhood in Akron, Ohio.

When James passed Jordan for fourth place on the NBA’s career scoring list back in March 2019, the moment moved him to tears on the Lakers’ bench. He called Jordan “an inspiration” and “the lightning in a bottle for me, because I wanted to be like him.”

The Lakers heralded James’ latest statistical superlative in their locker room after the Lakers’ 119-102 win over Atlanta. Chicago native Anthony Davis also made sure James kept his achievement in perspective, however.

“It bothers me,” the Lakers big man said with a grin. “But it took him seven more seasons. ... No, actually, growing up, I was more No. 1 LeBron. That was my era. So that’s obviously a hell of an accomplishment. I think he’s probably No. 1 in everything at this point. I’ve been here long enough to witness so many accomplishments, so I’m definitely grateful to be here, and we just want to keep stacking.”

Unlike many players, he skipped any competition in the first week of 2025, instead opting to enter an event in Auckland this week before heading to Melbourne. The mind-set, Shelton explains, amounts to: “Oh, I’m six weeks off; I’m not really ‘match tough’ right now.”

Some fans wonder why he and others opt to participate in exhibitions at all, but players say those don’t take the same sort of toll that a day-after-day tournament, or even everyother-day Slam event, does. Hard to argue with someone choosing to make a little extra money on the side, too. And players make the case that no matter how much they can switch off in November or December, part of the issue is there are not many chances to do that during other months.

“Ideally we’d have a little bit more time. It’s such a short turnaround ... after such a long season. There’s not enough days to recover,” said Alexei Popyrin, an Australian who upset Novak Djokovic at last year’s U.S. Open.

“Taking time off to let your body rest might hinder the preparation, but at the end of the day, you need your body to be ready. The schedule is just so hectic throughout the year.”

SPECIAL OLYMPICS BAHAMAS 2025 AND BEYOND

SPECIAL Olympics

Bahamas is extremely excited to announce a number of changes and appointments within its management structure as the organisation gets set to navigate 2025 and beyond.

Programme national director Gilbert Williams explains that “while some of the changes and appointments are strategic and purposely aligned to help achieve several of our immediate and mid range goals, others are as a result

of some board members having served for the maximum (consecutive) term allowed, and thereby terming out.”

Williams further stated that “we are both excited and optimistic about the changes and our immediate future and look forward to providing our athletes with greater and more exciting training and competition opportunities. While there are no major international competitions on our agenda for 2025, much of

AYTON HAS DOUBLE DOUBLE - 11 POINTS, 13 REBOUNDS - IN WIN OVER PELICANS

NEW ORLEANS (AP)

— Deni Avdija scored 26 points, Shaedon Sharpe added 21 points and Portland led wire to wire in a victory over struggling New Orleans.

New Orleans played without power forward Zion Williamson, who was held out as a precaution after coming back from a left hamstring strain a night earlier. Brandon Ingram (left ankle) missed his 14th straight game.

Anfernee Simons scored 17 points and Toumani Camara 15 for Portland, which led 75-42 at halftime and cruised from there. Deandre Ayton scored 11 points and grabbed 13 rebounds for the Blazers, who shot 54.5% (48 of 88).

PACERS 129, BULLS 113

INDIANAPOLIS (AP)

— Pascal Siakam scored 26 points, Thomas Bryant added a season-high 22 and two-time All-Star Tyrese Haliburton had 16 points and 13 assists in the Indiana Pacers’ 129-113 victory over the Chicago Bulls last

night. Siakam made 11 of 17 shots from the field to help Indiana win its fourth straight, all by 10 or more points. Bryant had eight rebounds as the Pacers continued climbing the Eastern Conference standing with their 10 win in 13 games. Zach LaVine led the Bulls with 31 points. Coby White had 19 points and five assists as Chicago lost for the first time in three games and just the second time in six.

CAVALIERS 129, THUNDER 122

CLEVELAND (AP)

— Jarrett Allen scored 25 points, Evan Mobley added 21 and Cleveland ended Oklahoma City’s 15-game winning streak by beating the Thunder in a marquee meeting between the NBA’s top two teams. The Cavs extended their winning streak to 11, improved the league’s best record to 32-4 — 11-0 against the West — and moved to 19-1 at home. They did it on an off night for leading scorer Donovan

com or Brent Stubbs at 4267265 or stubbobs@gmqil. com for more information. DTSP WOLFPACK CLASSIC

our focus will be on positioning our entire team of athletes and coaches, to allow us a good view of quota submission (which will come due by year end) for the 2027 Special Olympics World Summer Games, set to be held in Santiago, Chile.

“There are a couple competitions within the Caribbean region that we are considering, but our main focus on the local front competition wise will be our National Bocce

Championships, slated for the beginning of May, which will bring together athletes and coaches from Abaco, Grand Bahama and New Providence.”

Heading the list of changes for 2025 is newly elected board chair Nicole DeNardin Russell.

Nicole is a senior administrator in the special education field and has been a volunteer with Special Olympics Bahamas since 2008. She has served in numerous roles within

the organisation over the years, including assistant and head coach assignments at Special Olympics World Games, assistant head of delegation at the most recent Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany (2023), area coordinator for Abaco and secretary for the board of directors. “Nicole’s experience, energy and passion for our athletes and the organisation will all prove beneficial in this new role,” added Williams.

Mitchell, who had just 11 points on 3 of 16 shooting.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points and Jalen Williams had 25 for the Thunder in their first loss since Dec. 1.

KNICKS 112, RAPTORS 98

NEW YORK (AP) — Karl-Anthony Towns had 27 points and 13 rebounds, OG Anunoby scored 27 points, and New York beat Toronto. Josh Hart added 21 points and 11 rebounds while Jalen Brunson had 13 points for the Knicks, who snapped a three-game losing streak that followed nine consecutive victories.

Towns shot 9 for 14 from the field, including 3

for 3 on 3-pointers, in 34 minutes after missing Monday’s loss against Orlando due to patellar tendinopathy in his right knee.

76ERS 109, WIZARDS 103

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Tyrese Maxey scored the go-ahead basket with 23.7 seconds left and finished with 29 points to lead Philadelphia to a win over Washington. Guerschon Yabusele scored 21 points and blocked a potential tying layup with 14 seconds left to preserve the win for the Sixers.

PISTONS 113, NETS 98

NEW YORK (AP) — Malik Beasley scored 23

points, Cade Cunningham had 13 points, five assists and five rebounds, and Detroit won their fifth straight game, over Brooklyn. Detroit’s bench outscored Brooklyn’s 50-20, led by reserves Simone Fontecchio with 17 points and Marcus Sasser, who added 15 points.

Detroit has won eight of its last nine games to climb above .500 at 19-18.

Noah Clowney finished with a game-high 29 points, and Tyrese Martin scored 12 points and had 10 rebounds for the Nets.

The Nets dropped their third straight overall and seventh in a row at Barclays Center.

GSSSA BASKETBALL SEASON RESUMES

MINGOES DROP TO STRIKERS IN UB SHOWCASE

THE University of the Bahamas women’s volleyball team kicked off the UB Volleyball Showcase with a 3-1 loss to the Spikers at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium. Mingoes dropped the first two sets before winning the third set and eventually dropped the fourth set.

Mingoes head coach Raymond Wilson saw some improvements in his team despite the loss.

“The girls looked pretty good coming off the Christmas break. We have two or three members still out. That plays a vital role.

“So, I like what I see. I think the team has improved a lot and the new parts that we got are playing instrumental parts. We should have a good 2025,” Wilson said.

Mingoes got off to a slow start in the first set as they went down 15-6. They focused and trailed 19-16 but the Spikers won that set 25-20. They trailed in the second set 16-7 before the Spikers kept control and won it 25-16.

It was a better display of talent by the Mingoes in the third set. They led 7-2 early in the set and never gave up the lead to win the third set 25-18 to avoid the sweep. Wilson said that his team was in the game in the third set. “The momentum played a very important part in how they played. They started to communicate and got into a momentum and that was the outcome. Once they relax, they play ball better,” Wilson said.

The Mingoes dug themselves in a 16-6 hole in the fourth set before Spikers wrapped up the set and match 25-8.

The UB Volleyball Showcase continues as the Mingoes regroup to play against Warhawks at 7pm on January 14.

gmail.com and smnbutler@ yahoo.com or contact Tito Moss at 425-4262.

Walker - senior girls and boys starting at 4pm. CI Gibson GymnasiumAnatol Rodgers High vs RM Bailey - senior girls and boys starting at 4pm.

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 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.

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.

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 2024-25 Government Secondary Schools Sports Association (GSSSA) basketball season has resumed in the junior division. Basketball action picked back up yesterday at the DW Davis Gymnasium and CI Gibson Gymnasium respectively. The junior girls of CH Reeves toppled TA Thompson 27-3 in their matchup at the DW Davis Gymnasium. In the following game, the CH Reeves junior boys knocked off TA Thompson 41-20. Over at the CI Gibson Gymnasium, the junior boys and girls of DW Davis and LW Young faced off. The DW Davis Royals handled business against the LW Young Golden Eagles in both matchups. The junior girls won 54-10 while the boys won 62-10. The GSSSA senior games will resume today at 4pm.

The categories for both the male and female in both events will be under-15, under-20, under-40, under60 and 60-and-over. There will also be a 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.

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

TRACK AND FIELD RED-LINE CLASSIC

THE Red-Line Athlet-

ics 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@

BASKETBALL GBISA THE Grand Bahama Independent Schools Association resumed its regular season after the Christmas break with a series of games at the YMCA Gymnasium. Thursday’s schedule Blazer Elite vs Hampton Academy. Dark Knights vs Bahamas Jaguars. JC Academy vs Greater Heights.

GOLF KORN FERRY VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERS are needed for the Korn Ferry Professional Golf Tournament 2025 Bahamas Golf Classic at The Ocean Club, scheduled for January 9-15. Volunteers are needed. The biggest need is walking scorers as there are approximately 44 shifts to be filled from the 9th-10th. There is a cut after the second round for the golfers, so approximately 25 shifts to be filled the 11th and 12th.

Walking Scoring Notes - Walking Scoring involves keeping score for an assigned group of golfers and radioing in scores to Scoring Central.

- There will be a training held at 3pm on Saturday January 18 at the Ocean Club. You must attend the training if you are a new volunteer to be able to walk in the scores.

- The training will last no more than an hour.

- This is the most important job for the golf tournament, as the walking scorers are sending in scores to be updated on the PGATOUR’s leaderboard.

- You must be able to walk 18 holes at a time, which is approximately four miles. WhatsApp is usually the preferred communication method for shift times and job category groups. If you prefer a different method (iMessage/email).

* Please reach out to volunteer coordinator Allie Leigeb for any further questions and if you would like to confirm dates available to volunteer* WhatsApp/ Mobile- 859699-2197 Email- allie@ bdglobalsports.com

Photo: Nikia Charlton

NEW Orleans Pelicans guard Jordan Hawkins (24) shoots against Portland Trail Blazers centre Deandre Ayton (2) in the first half in New Orleans last night. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Dealing with the pressures of the upcoming season

By Dr Kent L Bazard

AS the clock resets for a new sports season, excitement often blends with a heavy dose of pressureespecially for senior high school athletes and university prospects. The stakes are high.

The hope for scholarships, accolades, or personal milestones can create a whirlwind of expectations, not just from coaches but from parents, peers, and even themselves. However, these pressures aren’t exclusive to athletes. Whether it’s preparing for a major project, facing an important deadline, or striving to meet life-changing goals, the need to manage stress and focus effectively applies to us all.

The Weight of Expectations

For senior athletes, every game, tournament, or trial may feel like a final chance to prove worth. Take J. Rolle, a 17-year-old basketball star, who spent every spare moment last year training to make it to the NCAA. His relentless drive resulted in burnout and an injury, leaving him sidelined for key tournaments.

Despite his talent, he learned that physical preparedness is meaningless without mental and emotional balance.

Similarly, consider professionals preparing for a pivotal presentation or students approaching final exams. The constant pressure to excel can either fuel productivity or result in paralysing stress.

Strategies for Handling Pressure

1. Shift Focus From Results to Effort

While success is the goal, emphasising effort over outcomes fosters a healthier relationship with your sport or activity.

Serena Williams once said, “I just want to be the best me I can be, not necessarily the best player.”

Whether in athletics or personal life, controlling your effort and preparation can relieve the fear of variables outside your influence.

2. Prioritise

Mental Resilience

Mental conditioning can be as crucial as physical preparation. Incorporate techniques like mindfulness or breathing exercises to stay calm during highstakes moments.

Visualisation can help you rehearse scenarios in your mind, increasing confidence in your ability to handle them in real-time.

For athletes: Imagine yourself making a successful free throw or crossing the finish line with composure. For others: Picture nailing that presentation or confidently finishing that project before its deadline.

3. Build a Support Network

Share your struggles with a trusted mentor, coach, or family member. A supportive network acts as a reminder that you’re never alone in facing challenges. Parents and peers can provide perspective, offering balance between ambition and self-compassion.

4. Schedule Recovery Time All-out efforts should be balanced with purposeful rest.

Legendary runner Usain

BAZARD DR KENT

Bolt spent hours recovering after sprints, proving that performance is built during downtime, too. Athletes and professionals alike benefit from moments of deliberate pause - whether it’s stretching, reading, or spending time with loved ones.

5. Redefine Failure as Growth

Every setback is an opportunity for self-discovery. Michael Jordan famously said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career... And that is why I succeed.” Rather than avoiding challenges, embrace them as stepping stones to improvement.

Navigating the Social Pressures In the Bahamas, the culture of community often means big crowds at sporting events, intense commentary, and constant expectations from relatives. This dynamic can amplify pressure but also offers unique resources.

Lean into the traditions that ground you - whether

it’s post-game support from family or a quiet beach walk to refocus.

Bringing it Together

Whether you’re striving to be recruited by a university team, leading a crucial workplace initiative, or balancing multiple life goals, navigating pressure is an inevitable part of the journey. The key is not to eliminate it but to adapt to it, using stress as a catalyst for disciplined preparation and growth.

As we embrace the challenges of the season ahead, remember: pressure shapes diamonds, but balance ensures their shine. Wherever your path leads, show up with confidence, preparedness, and the resilience to

SPORTS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 2025

Richardson hosts free kids’ camp

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

New York Mets

first base coach

Antoan Rich-

ardson along with LDK Performance teamed up with the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association (MLBPAA) to host a free kids’ camp over the last two days at the Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium.

The two-day event kicked off LDK Performance’s National Weekend. It is expected to be an exciting week of events highlighted by a free kids’ camp, LDK Talks panel discussion and a LDK & MLB Showcase all geared towards developing and providing opportunities for baseball players in the country. Richardson said it is a joy to be able to return home

and play an active role in giving back to players in a position he was once in.

“It’s a gift, the ability to come out here and hang with these athletes and just witness the talent and even better yet try to connect them with an opportunity. I just feel really blessed to have this opportunity.

“I think we have the greatest athletes in the world and so it is just a matter of making sure we create that opportunity.

“It is also making sure they have access to these initiatives, programmes and then access to the backend opportunities we can connect that talent to,” he said.

The two-day free kids’ camp, which got underway on Monday, was split into two sessions.

Monday’s sessions catered to baseball players in the 7-12 age group and yesterday’s session

THE SPORTS CALENDAR

AFTER taking the Christmas break, the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association is all set to resume its basketball season

January

featured players from the 13-18 age range. Players got the opportunity to get some reps in with Bahamian minor leaguers.

The professionals passed on knowledge about the baseball fundamentals including fielding, base running and throwing drills.

The LDK Performance president was pleased to have the support of the MLBPAA for this initiative

SEE PAGE 16

Shannon Hanna II thriving with Campbell University

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

FOLLOWING a redshirt season, collegiate wrestler Shannon Hanna II is back to taking care of business on the collegiate scene with the Campbell University Fighting Camels during the 2024-25 wrestling season.

The 23-year-old enjoyed copious amounts of success on the international scene in 2024, wrestling in various tournaments overseas while picking up medals and invaluable experience along the way. Now that he is back to his original stomping grounds in Buies Creek, North Carolina, he is pleased to return to

THE ink has officially dried on the Major League Baseball (MLB) professional contract for International Elite (I-Elite) Sports Academy prospect Jahni McPhee.

The Grand Bahama native officially announced his signing with the Chicago Cubs yesterday, making him the second Bahamian since BJ Murray to join the Cubs’ farm system. His love for the sport of baseball began at the tender age of 8-years-old, the first time he picked up a ball. Since then, his love for the game has flourished and grown along with his skillset.

McPhee shared that the moment feels surreal right now but he knows the journey is far from over.

“At the moment it feels very nice but I know I have to stay humble because the job is not done yet and I

wrestling action with the Fighting Camels.

“It is definitely different. I remember last year I was watching the team and it kind of sucked because I would just be watching but wanting to compete with them. I felt like a coach and an outsider last year but now being able to put

NEW York Mets first base coach Antoan Richardson (in blue) interacts with campers during a free kids’ camp at the Andre Rodgers National Baseball Stadium.

Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net