02062025 NEWS AND SPORT

MOM’S SHOCK AS OFFICERS CHARGED

Deangelo’s mother in tears at news after wait since 2018 death

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

BEVERLY Lee-Rolle is still in shock but happy about the news that two police officers are to face a manslaughter trial for the shooting of her son, Deangelo Evans.

Ms Lee-Rolle said she did not know the officers had returned to court until a relative told her - and she burst into tears when she heard the news.

On Tuesday, it was reported that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) reveresed an earlier decision not to charge any officer in the 2018 shooting.

Acting Coroner Kara Turnquest issued documents transferring Inspector Akeem Wilson’s case to the Supreme Court, where he will be formally arraigned before Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson on Friday.

SEE PAGE FIVE

‘RECORD YEAR FOR TOURISM’ WITH CRUISE PASSENGER RISE

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

TOURISM in The Bahamas had its “best year ever” in 2024, with a notable increase in both tourist arrivals and visitor spending, particularly among cruise ship passengers, according to Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper.

Mr Cooper, who’s also the Minister of Tourism, shared the figures during a press conference at the Ministry of Tourism’s office yesterday.

He said more than 11 million air and sea visitors came to The Bahamas in 2024, marking a 16.2 percent increase from 9.7 million in 2023.

Haiti mission goes on despite US fund freeze

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe yesterday.

By KEILE CAMPBELL

Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said yesterday The Bahamas remains committed to the mission in Haiti and has no plans to withdraw

its involvement, despite the Trump administration’s decision to freeze over $13m in funding for the international security force in Haiti.

The US government’s decision to freeze funding is part of a broader review of foreign aid under the

“America First” policy. This freeze has raised concerns about its impact on ongoing stabilization efforts in Haiti, where powerful gangs control significant portions of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

SANDS: COME CLEAN ON ENERGY DEAL

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

‘RECORD YEAR FOR TOURISM’ WITH CRUISE PASSENGER RISE

from page one

Of the 11.22 million total visitors, foreign air arrivals exceeded 1.72 million, matching 2023 numbers.

These arrivals also outpaced 2019 figures by 3.3 percent. December was the best month for arrivals, with 1.15 million visitors — 14 per cent ahead of 2023 and 62 percent above 2019 levels.

Yesterday’s release of last year’s “record-breaking” tourism numbers comes amid ongoing frustration from many vendors in downtown Nassau, who said they have not felt the impact of the millions of visitors.

Asked about spending trends among stopover and cruise ship visitors, Mr Cooper cited surveys from local sources and the Florida Cruise Association, indicating a rise in spending by cruise passengers.

He estimated that cruise passengers spent an average of $130 each, with both passengers and crew contributing $654m to cruise tourism expenditure in the 2023/2024 cruise year, up from $405m in 2018 — a 61 percent increase in six years.

For stopover visitors, Mr Cooper estimated an average spend of $2,800 per guest. He also highlighted an increase in average daily hotel rates, a key indicator of stopover spending. Stopover guests typically stay for six to seven days.

“Our estimates suggest that when we add direct employment, taxes and levies the overall benefit exceeds $1.25bn with

overall tourist spending in the $6bn range,” Mr Cooper added.

Meanwhile, Grand Bahama saw an 8.7 percent growth in air arrivals, second only to Abaco, which experienced an 11.9 percent increase over 2023.

Asked about growth in southern island tourism, Mr Cooper acknowledged steady progress but noted that these islands are sometimes hindered by limited accommodation capacity. During yesterday’s press conference, officials also unveiled plans for their 2025 tourism strategy, with a $12m global communications budget focusing on sales and marketing.

Tourism Director General Latia Duncombe said the initiatives aim to maximise stopover arrivals, expand engagement with the family islands, and drive economic benefits for all Bahamians.

Mrs Duncombe noted that advertising will be conducted digitally, locally, and internationally.

DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper speaking yesterday.

Photo: Nikia Charlton

TOURISM Director General Latia Duncombe

MUNROE: MURDER CHARGE POSSIBLE IN PRISON STABBING

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

AN inmate suspected of fatally stabbing another prisoner at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services may face a murder charge, according to National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, who said the decision rests with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Officials said Brody Fritz, 60, was killed on Saturday morning

during an altercation as prisoners disposed of their night waste under staff supervision. Another inmate was hospitalised with serious injuries, while a third suffered non-life-threatening wounds.

Police said the suspected attacker, who was already awaiting trial for murder, has been placed in isolation.

When asked about potential charges, Mr Munroe told reporters yesterday: “I would expect that he will face homicide charges,

bearing in mind the profile of it and him. I’m not the DPP. “The DPP is an individual but to my legal mind, it’s a case that would warrant him being charged with capital murder, but that is actually the decision of the DPP who is independent. I cannot tell her what to do but that’s my view of it.”

His comments came just hours before police reported another stabbing at the prison, reigniting concerns about security and the smuggling of illegal contraband.

Mr Munroe acknowledged the challenges, blaming systemic issues like outdated infrastructure, and called for urgent prison reform.

“This is a challenge that you have with a housing facility built in the 1950s to house two to 300 people,” he added. “The fact of the matter is, there is no indoor lavatories in maximum security; persons must use slop buckets. Those slop buckets must be emptied every morning. That’s the fact, unless and until we get the

new high-medium security facility, that will continue everyday.” Conditions at the prison have long been a concern, with Corrections Commissioner Doan Cleare admitting that BDOCS failed an accreditation inspection in 2023. Mr Munroe has previously expressed hope that infrastructure improvements will help the prison achieve accreditation, noting that Cabinet has approved construction plans for new facilities, including mental health cells, a clinic, and a medical facility.

CLERGY MEMBERS ATTEND CONFLICT RESOLUTION TRAINING

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe underscored the importance of faith, training, and community engagement as he addressed participants in a conflict resolution training session aimed at clergy members yesterday.

The training, held at First Baptist Church, covered a wide range of topics including crisis management, conflict resolution, and intervention techniques.

Referencing biblical principles, Mr Munroe emphasised that many of the social challenges in The Bahamas today — including personal conflicts that can lead to homicides and suicides — stem from unresolved disputes.

“We see threats of death, and we’ve even seen suicide and attempted suicide based on a failure to resolve disputes and for there to be peace,” the minister told attendees.

Mr Munroe commended clergy members for taking part in the initiative, noting that learning conflict

resolution strategies enhances their role in the community.

He also encouraged participants to fully embrace the training provided.

Among the participants in the training is Pastor Matheo Smith, who is facing a criminal case.

He is currently facing an active indecent assault charge involving a minor at a local high school, stemming from an incident in October 2023. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, with his next court date set for April 4, 2025. He was granted $5,000 bail.

The Tribune has been informed that Mr Smith attended the event but is not an organiser.

Speaking to reporters at the event, Mr Smith said: “This training, as we can see, the community is requiring more involvement. This training for pastors, especially giving pastors the first-hand experience in dealing with psychological issues.”

He praised the expertise of the instructors, saying the sessions offered valuable knowledge.

Tribune sources said that participants had not been vetted.

HAITI MISSION GOES ON DESPITE US FUND FREEZE

from page one

When asked about the freeze and its effect on The Bahamas’ involvement in the mission, Mr Munroe noted that the effort is not solely reliant on American support, as other countries have also contributed.

“Fortunately for the MSSM (Multinational Security Support Mission) mission in Haiti, we had donors other than the US, although they were a major donor,” he told reporters on the sidelines of an event yesterday.

he said. “The training in Jamaica was paid for by the Koreans, the Japanese supplying aid to the questions. There are other countries in the world other than the US.”

“The US, as I understand it, has paused. It has not taken a decision to cancel it. It is also in the US’ national security interest in my consideration for there to be a stable Haiti,”

He said The Bahamas continues to contribute to maritime security in the region and that it is in the country’s best interest to remain involved in efforts to stabilise Haiti, to prevent

mass migration to The Bahamas.

“We have to be very mindful, if Haiti degenerates, you can have an outflow of millions of Haitians coming in this direction that creates, as the Prime Minister describes it, an existential threat to a country of 400,000 people,” Mr Munroe added.

“We deem it necessary

to participate in making sure that Haiti does not degenerate to the point that its 11 million population could consider streaming out and coming in our direction.”

The Bahamas has been proactive in its support for Haiti’s stabilisation.

Last year, a six-member advance team from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) was deployed to join the (MSSM) in Haiti. The team has been in contact with Commodore Raymond King, who reported no concerns.

Additionally, last month, an RBDF vessel was redeployed to patrol offshore areas near Haiti after returning to The Bahamas for repairs due to defects encountered during its mission.

A CONFLICT resolution training session at First Baptist Church yesterday.

Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

MINISTER of National Security Wayne Munroe and Carlos Reid during the conflict resolution training session.

Ransomware attack on university

Bahamas (UTEB) said yesterday there had already been three days of downtime for students and educators because of the attack - and if it was prolonged any further, there may have to be consideration given to extending the term. A number of UB’s online systems were affected by the attack.

Even on campus, only cash was accepted for payments. The union chief said that the attack prevented access to emails, Zoom and Moodle, although the virtual learning platforms were accessible. People were unable to print or scan, and only cash could be accepted for payments.

Mr Thompson said yesterday it is a “real challenge” for most of his members, especially those taking purely online classes. However, face to face classes were less challenged. He said: “I’ve continued my classes, all face-to-face have continued. So online classes, many of them happen due to the ability to what they did is contact the office, and they were able to be in contact with their professors and then they did the link up in that regard.

So we did the best we could. In some cases, some classes may have been missed for the online classes. Once it’s solved today (Wednesday), anticipate there may not be any major impact on scheduling. Faculty will just sort of make-up the classes and

move forward.”

UB said in a statement the incident was detected on Sunday. The statement read: “Upon discovery of the breach, our technology services team initiated our incident response plan, and we are working closely with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement to investigate the matter.” The university added immediate steps were taken to secure the internet-based

systems by disabling access to their network and an investigation is underway.

UB advised students, faculty and staff to change passwords on any device connected to the UB network and closely monitor activity on their account as a protective measure.

Mr Thompson said the university told staff that the situation would be resolved yesterday.

He said: “We would have

missed three days. I knew that if the time goes too long the university may have to make some hard decisions, such as extending the semester if necessary, but I guess administration has to assess the impact and whether faculty, they’re able to make up the classes. If they’re able to make up the classes, then they shouldn’t have no impact on the scheduling in terms of when class ends.

“I cannot speak to what the university is doing in that regard. I know that my members are concerned that the downtime needs to be made up. Normally, professors can make it up during the semester if you have sufficient time by, you know, extending the classes a little longer. Catching up 30 minutes every class, in about two weeks they would have caught up.

“But in regards to

whether that can happen or not, and if that can’t happen, the university will be faced with a tough decision where they need to extend the semester by one more week.”

When The Tribune reached out yesterday evening to a UB representative on the issue being resolved, they said the matter was still under investigation and any changes will be communicated later.

QUESTIONING CONTINUES OF WSC MANAGER IN CASE

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter

A SENIOR employee at the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC)

testified yesterday about the corporation’s procurement methods after a defence attorney in Adrian Gibson and others’ criminal trial pressed him on how vendors were selected for projects.

Robert Deal, WSC’s general manager, told the court under cross-examination by Mr Damian Gomez, KC, that there were primarily three methods for awarding contracts to vendors.

Mr Deal acknowledged that one method was sole sourcing, where the board approves a specific vendor.

Mr Gomez asked whether sole sourcing and nomination were essentially the same.

Mr Deal replied that as long as sole sourcing aligned with WSC’s procurement procedures, the two were similar. However, he said there was “a slight difference.”

Mr Gomez then suggested another method — limiting bids to a defined group of vendors and inviting them to submit proposals.

Mr Deal confirmed that this was also a recognised approach and admitted that it had occasionally been used during Mr Gibson’s tenure.

Mr Gomez then asked the witness if the third method involved publicly issuing a request for

proposals (RFP). The witness replied in the affirmative.

“Now is it not true that this one last method where you...receive from the board a direction that a specific person or a specific vendor is chosen?” the attorney added.

Mr Deal responded that this was similar to sole sourcing.

When asked whether the majority of contracts during Mr Gibson’s tenure had been awarded to nominated contractors, the witness could not definitively answer, but confirmed that some vendors were selected this way.

“I’m putting it to you that that nominated contractors was the norm and not dependent on any emergency as such,” Mr Gomez said.

However, the witness disagreed.

Mr Gibson, the MP for Long Island, has been

on trial since November 2023 alongside former WSC general manager Elwood Donaldson, Jr, Joan Knowles, Peaches Farquharson, and Jerome Missick. The charges stem from contracts awarded by the corporation while Mr Gibson served as WSC executive chairman.

About ten prosecution witnesses remain to testify in the case.

The defence team includes Mr Gomez, KC, Murrio Ducille, KC, Geoffrey FarquharsonIan Cargill, Bryan Bastian, Ryan Eve, and Raphael Moxey. Meanwhile, the Crown’s legal team comprises the Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Frazier, Cashena Thompson, Karine MacVean, and Rashied Edgecombe.

The case continues before Senior Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson.

Mom’s shock as officers charged

from page one

Wilson’s co-accused, Detective Corporal 3906 Donald Wright, failed to appear in court and an arrest warrant was issued for him.

Ms Lee-Rolle told The Tribune she was unaware the officers went back to court on Tuesday until a relative informed her.

“When I got the news yesterday evening, I was in shock. I bursted out in tears because I didn’t even know they went back to court. No one did give me a call but I heard yesterday evening through my sister-in-law that had to go to court on Friday,” she said.

“I’m still in shock. I’m happy to wait all of these years.” It has been a long and difficult battle for the mother. She was visibly incensed outside the Magistrate’s

Court back in November after the initial decision that the two officers would not face charges. Although distraught, she still kept her faith nearly two months later. She said: “I still was holding on. I go to God on my knees and I ask him to show me the way out. I tell him I ain’t stopping there. I said God you have to step in for me. I ain’t give up and I ain’t giving up until the end because I know that wasn’t the end.

That’s why I was on the news making noise but that wasn’t standing with me.”

Her son was killed on May 27, 2018. Officers were responding to an alleged armed robbery. While the officers maintained that Evans was armed, the family and several eyewitnesses said he was not. Residents who saw the

incident claimed police approached Evans, who was standing with another man on Sandy Lane off McCullough Corner, searched both men, and in the course of that search, opened fire.

A Coroner’s Court jury determined in 2023 that Evans’ death was a homicide by manslaughter, one of several such rulings in the last few years that prompted the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to review the file and decide if criminal charges were warranted against officers.

Ms Lee-Rolle admitted the whole ordeal has affected her mentally.

“Since he got killed, I was going through depression. All kind of stuff. All kind of pressure everything came on me after he got killed,” she said.

The news of the two officers facing trial comes

at a time when a number of officers are in court for various matters including conspiracy to commit bribery.

She felt this signalled a shift in greater accountability for police officers.

She said: “Me and other rest of the family, we stand together. We had meetings and everything, and we say have to come as one. They’re the law and we shouldn’t be scared of the law, because the law is for everyone, not just for them because they are officer.

“Like I was telling them when we had certain meeting some people is be scared to challenge the police because they’re the law. I always tell them the law for everybody.

“We have to fight until we get justice. Even at the end if we ain’t get what we’re looking for, at least we fight until the end.”

‘CHALLENGES BEING ADDRESSED’ AT RAND, SAYS PHA

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FOLLOWING alle-

gations of a shortage of hospital beds and chairs at the Rand Memorial Hospital in Grand Bahama, the Public Hospital Authority (PHA) said yesterday challenges are being addressed.

In addition to concerns raised over bed and

chair shortages, PHA said there were also questions concerning the facility’s preparedness to handle patient care during emergencies or overflow situations.

“PHA assures the public that Rand Memorial Hospital continues to deliver uninterrupted, high-quality care to all patients,” the statement read. The PHA said the Rand has robust response plans in place to manage periods

On Saturday, February 15, 2025, Temple Christian School will hold its Entrance Examination for students entering grades 7, 8, 9 and 10.

TIME: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

LOCATION: High School Campus, Shirley Street

Application forms are available at the High School Office and should be completed and returned to the school by Friday, February 14, 2025 The application fee is twenty-five dollars ($25).

For further information, please call telephone number: 394-4481/394-4484.

of high patient volume, natural disasters, or mass casualty events.

The PHA asked the public to use community clinics for non-urgent

medical cases. The Freeport Community Clinic (FCC) operates Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and on Saturdays from 8am to 4pm.

DEANGELO EVANS

The Tribune Limited

NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI

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

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

PICTURE OF THE DAY

LEON E. H. DUPUCH

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-

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Time will tell if strike action really work?

THE Aga Khan has died - a figure who is known the world over, and whose presence has also been felt in the Bahamian arena.

Indeed, his helicopter featuredunhelpfully for those concerned - in the careers of not one but two politicians, one the leader of Canada, and one closer to home.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau caught some heat internationally for holidaying at Bell Island, the private island in The Bahamas owned by the Aga Khan, and using the private helicopter to travel back and forth from the island to Nassau.

Questions were raised for Trudeau as to whether there was any breach of official ethics rules.

But Trudeau was not the first politician to find themselves in a spot of bother because of a helicopter ride courtesy of the Aga Khan.

Earl Deveaux was even mentioned in the UK’s Daily Mail for the criticism that came his way on radio shows here in The Bahamas after he accepted a ride in the helicopter to a film screening in Abaco.

At the time, he was Environment Minister - travelling in a manner not terribly conducive to the environment.

There was speculation at the time that the trip might have an impact on the polls at the election.

The debate also drew in Hubert Ingraham, then prime minister, who admitted having ridden in the same helicopter.

It was reported by Tribune sources at the time that the Aga Khan bought Bell Island that he made a donation of $1m to the Bahamas National Trust.

There had been a considerable dispute between the BNT and the PLP over Bell Island, and controversial dredging that took place in the Exuma Land and Sea Park.

That dredging had been conducted to accommodate the Aga Khan’s yacht and a marina at Bell Island.

The dispute came when the PLP was in opposition - and let loose at the BNT for giving its blessing to that dredging. Peace finally broke out when the new Christie administration came into power.

The Aga Khan remained a political talking point, however - even in 2013, Prime Minister Christie was saying: “See Hubert Ingraham could take flights on helicopters and see Aga Khan and he could do all kind of things, but the minute you do it, it’s a different game because he is judged by a different standard.”

At the time, Mr Christie was talking about a row over his dealings with Peter Nygard. That is a dispute that has not aged well given the many criminal

charges Nygard is now facing.

Readers yesterday also shared other memories of the Aga Khan’s time in The Bahamas - including his yachts that sailed in our waters, named after two of the all-time horse racing greats.

Shergar was famed the world over - a horse that won the Epsom Derby, the Irish Derby, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and more.

The horse was the centre of one of the great mysteries too - it was stolen and a ransom of $2m demanded. The ransom went unpaid, the horse never seen again.

Zarkava, meanwhile, was a winner of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

Both horses were owned by the Aga Khan, both had yachts named after them, both found anchor in Bahamian waters.

The Aga Khan became the spiritual leader of the world’s millions of Ismaili Muslims at age 20 as a Harvard undergraduate and poured a material empire built on billions of dollars in tithes into building homes, hospitals and schools in developing countries.

His real names was Prince Karim AlHussaini, the Aga Khan being a title, and his son Rahim has been named the Aga Khan V, the 50th hereditary imam of the Shiite Ismaili Muslims.

Over decades, the Aga Khan evolved into a business magnate and a philanthropist, moving between the spiritual and the worldly with ease.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called him “a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world”. Trudeau, that one time helicopter hitchhiker, called him a very good friend and “an extraordinarily compassionate global leader”.

Condolences poured in online from charity groups he supported, as well as the equestrian world, where he was a well-known figure.

The Aga Khan was given the title of “His Highness” by Queen Elizabeth in July 1957, two weeks after his grandfather the Aga Khan III unexpectedly made him heir to the family’s 1,300-year dynasty as leader of the Ismaili Muslim sect.

The Aga Khan Development Network, his main philanthropic organization, deals mainly with issues of health care, housing, education and rural economic development. It says it works in over 30 countries and has an annual budget of about $1 billion for non-profit development activities.

He left his mark in The Bahamas - not always to the benefit of those who got caught in the spotlight - but he also left many memories, some of which readers have been sharing. His passing closes a chapter of political history.

Cyber attack is a lesson for all

EDITOR, The Tribune.

ON Wednesday, January 5, reports surfaced that the University of The Bahamas had fallen victim to a ransomware attack, crippling its network and disrupting online services. This unfortunate event is a stark reminder that no organisation — public or private — is immune to cyber threats. Sadly, this could be the fate of many companies in The Bahamas if proactive measures are not taken to strengthen cybersecurity defences.

We live in an island nation surrounded by an ocean filled with natural predators — sharks, barracudas, and other marine threats. Yet, we do not remove them from the waters to feel safe when we swim. Instead, we take

the necessary precautions: we stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and use protective gear when needed. The same principle applies to the digital world. Cyber threats exist, and we cannot eliminate them. But we can, and must, take measures to protect ourselves. Businesses, large or small, must ask critical questions.

• Have your employees been trained on cybersecurity awareness?

• Do you have a cybersecurity policy in place?

• Are you adhering to them?

• Have you conducted a security assessment to understand your vulnerabilities?

• Do you fully grasp your security posture? Cybersecurity is not a feature that can be added

Te silly season is on its way

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE time, often referred to as the “silly season” is fast approaching. We state categorically that there is nothing silly about the machinations we will witness by those in the pursuit of power who have no real idea what power is.

This conundrum will be revealed over the next 18 months, and despite the few scud missiles lofted by both major parties, the real “charm offensive” will begin about 12 months from now at the dawning of 2026!

later. It must be embedded into the core of business operations from the outset. Organisations that fail to implement robust security measures risk financial losses, repetitional damage, and operational disruptions. While it is distressing to see businesses and institutions suffer from cyberattacks, we must acknowledge that the responsibility to safeguard our digital assets lies with us.

Cyber resilience is not optional; it is essential for survival in today’s interconnected world.

SHERVIN EVANS

Cybersecurity Professional Nassau, February 5, 2025.

That is, of course, unless the prime minister gets a notion to call an early election because he believes that he is an extremely popular man. So popular, that Michael Pintard and the FNM will be soundly rejected by the Bahamian people whenever an election is called. He, like some others might believe that the FNM are too fractured to present an acceptable option for the Bahamian people. If that is the case, he should consider how going early turned out for his predecessor! We have often held that politics exposes the stupid and the evil in society.Our position on that self-actualising idea has not changed and there is nothing remotely silly about some of the electioneering behavior being displayed even as we speak. Danger would be a much better description of what occurs when the pursuit of and retention of power is the prize, or should we say when the reach vastly surpasses the grasp.

This is the time for the bottom feeders of the profession, who are in service to those who profess to have clean hands, to hold sway. These types are forever reaching and never grasping. They are indeed those for whom moral compromise and situational ethics are foolishly considered everyday acceptable behavior.

As all governments do, the Progressive liberal Party will do its damnedest to hold on to the holy grail of politics, governing power, and is not above using the resources of the state to do so. Again, this is a standard operating procedure and not unusual in the practice of politics.

However, that could prove problematic given the series of missteps and controversies that have

dogged this administration almost from the beginning of the term.

The official Opposition Free National Movement will conversely do its best to convince the Bahamian people that not much worthy of mention was accomplished by the PLP government and that given their (PLP) predilection for corrupt practices and missteps, the best option for them is to return the FNM to the seat of government!

It is the cruelest of ironies that the stated objective of desiring to do what is best for the people is so many times only achieved by the most dastardly means, where lives and families are destroyed in the process!

Once again, this is not unusual. This is the means by which psychotic individuals make their way in the world. Keep in mind that we are educated to become anti-social in order for us to carry out some of the inhumane acts we perform. However, the man of good conscience cannot bring himself to perform such evil contradictions and to court failure and destruction in the name of success and construction.

Let’s say it again, and again and again! – differently to get the idea fully.

The man of good conscience cannot bring himself to perform such evil contradictions and to court failure and destruction all the while believing and convincing others to believe that he is doing the intelligent thing, the constructive thing the good thing. In a world that has turned topsy-turvy over the last decade, we admonish the Bahamian people to be vigilant and to choose wisely. Today’s snake oil salesmen have no oil to sell, just snakes; promises of cushy jobs and humongous cash flow contracts!

If you can still identify a virtuous person, if you can still imagine a government led by a visionary politician with the undeniable best interest of the people at heart, then go for him/her and it. We do not believe that the country has seen such an animal since the days of Hubert Ingraham, the three-time former Free National Movement prime minister. We have had three

prime ministers since Mr. Ingraham but we posit that it would be a misnomer and a stretch to label any of them as visionary.

What The Bahamas needs now and in 2026 is someone prepared to reject the limiting shackles of mediocrity and the application of 20th century solutions to 21st century problems. A thinker and a visionary! Unfortunately for us, as has been pointed out, in politics as in life, brains aren’t everything. Politicians have achieved high office based on their ambition, hubris, cunning and a degree of ruthlessness more so than on account of their intellect!

Along with crime, unemployment and the high cost of living, AI is here. Is there a candidate vying to be our next prime minister with the capacity to successfully address the three of them and the attendant challenges of everyday life in The Bahamas? It’s time to read Thomas Paine and “Common Sense” Michael Pintard, the Free National Movement leader would like us to believe that he is that person and he may be! However, defeating Prime Minister Davis and the Progressive Liberal Party may be the least of his worries. Former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis appears to have gathered himself and his group of diehard supporters and is spoiling for another shot at leading the FNM. He wants to offer himself to the country again that soundly rejected him three years ago. It is left to be seen whether Mr Pintard has the mettle displayed by Sir Lynden, Mr Ingraham, Mr. Christie, Mr Davis and Dr Minnis, “ruthlessly” routing out any pretenders to their crowns. Our unsolicited advice to Mr Pintard is for him to keep his eyes on the prize. Forget Dr Minnis and show the Bahamian people what is in store for them with an FNM government led by Michael Pintard. And, grab hold, take charge of his party and bring some visible order to what appears to be a free for all of people claiming to be candidates in the next election!

So, Quo Vadis Bahamas? As 2026 looms in all its splendid possibilities and uncertainties! ED

SHIMMERING path across the sea thanks to the sun, in this picture captured by Devaughn Bonimy.

Grand Lucayan ‘important’ but GB needs more - DPM

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter

DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper acknowledged the importance of the Grand Lucayan resort to Grand Bahama’s economy but suggested that it should not be the sole driver of the island’s economic revitalisation.

“The Grand Lucayan Resort is important, but it takes the entire economy moving in the same direction together to truly revitalise the economy of Grand Bahama. We’re pushing in that regard, and as I indicated earlier, we’re going to be announcing another few $100m investment in Grand Bahama really soon,” Mr Cooper said.

Last week, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, during the Progressive Young Liberal Conclave, suggested once again that progress on the sale of the Grand Lucayan resort is imminent, with the government in the final stage of negotiations. When asked about Mr Davis’s comments, Mr Cooper responded that he would hold off on discussing the sale “until the money is in the bank.”

He described the Grand Lucayan as a vital part of Grand Bahama’s economy, noting it hosts meetings, conventions, weddings, and other events.

“We believe that this resort can and will play a significant role in the overall development of this vision for the island of Grand Bahama,” Mr Cooper said to reporters during a tourism press conference

He also highlighted other

investments aimed at boosting the island’s economy, such as the shipyard and Carnival’s Celebration Key cruise port. However, he suggested that revitalising the economy requires collective progress, not just the success of the Grand Lucayan.

The Grand Lucayan, which comprises three resorts with a total of 1,600 rooms, is currently operating at one-third capacity, with only the 200-room Lighthouse Pointe section open.

When asked about government spending to keep the resort open, Mr Cooper said that the government provides about $1m a month to maintain the resort. He explained that much of the money goes towards “fixed costs,” such as keeping the air conditioning running to maintain the property’s quality.

Additionally, the government continues to support more than 200 Bahamian jobs at the resort, benefiting the local economy.

Mr Cooper also pointed out that the Pelican Grand Beach Resort, located across from the Grand Lucayan, is reporting full occupancy. Despite being in transition, the Grand Lucayan is currently seeing significant occupancy through the end of February.

Mr Davis’s comments during the final night of the PLP Liberal Conclave echoed previous statements from the administration. In August, Mr Davis said that the government was close to revealing the buyer for the Grand Lucayan hotel. On Tuesday, Tribune Business reported that a Miami-based developer with $10b in resort and

real estate assets is in negotiations to purchase the Grand Lucayan. Multiple sources identified Concord Wilshire, known for its resort renovations in Florida, as the potential “master developer” for Grand Bahama’s flagship resort if it can finalise the purchase from the Bahamian government.

DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper yesterday. Photo: Nikia Charlton

Ambition of JoBeth Coleby-Davis?

THE best politicians demonstrate a powerful mixture of national purpose and personal ambition. Those with purpose and good ideas absent steely ambition often fail in the rough and tumble world of politics.

Those given mostly or overwhelmingly to ambition and personal greed are typically a danger to the polis, emphasising their desires and lust for power over the greater good.

While ambition is necessary, it is best when tempered, honed, carefully calibrated. Ambition without prudence, judgement and restraint leads to hubris.

In the Western classics from Icarus to Oedipus, Antigone, Macbeth, King Lear, Cleopatra, and others,

excessive pride or hubris, “a belief that [one] is somehow above the fates, or in control of destiny” typically leads to failure, as one is ensnared by one’s own unbridled arrogance.

Minister of Energy and Transport JoBeth ColebyDavis is clearly quite ambitious. It is good to see ambitious women like her in the frontline of politics. Women are often reticent to offer as candidates for election to the House of Assembly. At home and abroad there is an ingrained misogamy that seeks to restrict the ambition of women in politics. It is often not only men who think that women should only rise so far. Many women also believe

that only a man should be party leader or prime minister.

If Mrs Coleby-Davis has the ambition to eventually lead her party and become prime minister, good for her. However, along the way, the 40-year-old, who will turn 41 in July, might want to consider the nature, pitfalls and stratagems of ambition.

She might recall the Greek myth of Icarus and his father Daedalus, who warned his son not to fly so close to the sun that his wings would be destroyed. Which is exactly what happened with Icarus who fell into the ocean and drowned.

So seized by giddiness, hubris and overweening ambition, the boy simply wouldn’t listen. He was not as clever as he assumed. Right before he fell, “Icarus kept flapping his wings but soon realised that he had no feathers left and that he was only flapping his bare arms.”

The Icarus-like characters in politics often think they can defy the laws and physics of political gravity.

The thrills of power as minister, with the luxury travel, the obsequiousness of some officials, the headiness of sitting at the cabinet table and in parliament, and all of the other trappings, can mesmerise and send one into a drug-like euphoria.

It is difficult to keep ones feet on the ground and out of the clouds, and to remember that it is all fleeting. Vanity induces blindness, deafness, and magical thinking, all resulting in some politicians crashing and burning like Icarus.

There is considerable chatter that Mrs ColebyDavis wants to be deputy leader of the PLP, a coveted post now held by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, Chester Cooper.

The two cabinet colleagues share a birth month. They also appear to share a burning desire to be prime minister. Cooper will be 55 this year and is 14 years older than Coleby-Davis. So, what are some of the realities of political gravity facing the latter?

Chester Cooper is not universally loved in the PLP. Some see him as an interloper who delights in grandstanding and public relations hoopla.

Though he regularly touts the number of tourism arrivals, he has failed to increase the number of stopover visitors. He has his strengths along with a number of political weaknesses. He also has his avid supporters.

He has served his time in a political party that prefers orderly succession and for potential leaders to wait their turn. Then there is the misogyny resident in the country and in the major parties.

Former Long Island

Member of Parliament

Loretta Butler Turner experienced this misogyny, though in the end she may have been undone by not playing the longer game and remaining as an FNM candidate in the last election in a seat she would have won handily.

Had she remained she might currently be leader of the opposition and on her way to being the country’s first female prime minister. Perry Christie knew he had to wait his time to be PLP leader. So did Phillip “Brave” Davis, who may have preferred if Christie stepped aside early in the former’s favour.

Mr Davis had a long game: he won his seat, raised considerable funds for the party, schmoozed colleague and party grandees, and kept his proverbial powder dry. He is also an affable and likeable figure who knows how to deploy charm even as he is acting ruthlessly in a given situation. Those whose ambitions get way ahead of the moment tend to pay a heavy price. In a sexist Bahamas, with an uneven playing field, women often have to couch their ambition even when men are allowed free rein.

Former Democratic National Alliance (DNA) leader Branville McCartney demonstrated appeal and talent when serving in the FNM in a Hubert Ingraham cabinet.

Blisteringly annoyed that he was not promoted to his own ministry when the late Charles Maynard was promoted, McCartney seethed. He eventually launched his vanity party, the DNA, which is now moribund.

Had McCartney not behaved like Icarus, and played the long game, he would have won his Bamboo Town seat, and likely become leader of the opposition and prime minister.

But the ego and hubris of the relatively young McCartney in a hurry could not discipline his overweening ambition. Yet another shooting star, he failed at being a fixed, steady, and ever rising star in the political firmament. He politically flamed out. At the beginning of this year, there are two blunders that have seriously harmed Mrs Coleby-Davis. An advertisement in this journal appeared to tout her as a leader in waiting. She denies any association with the ad.

If it was concocted by any of her supporters, it backfired spectacularly, annoying many within the PLP, including supporters of the deputy leader. If the ad was done in mischief by political opponents to harm her, it succeeded.

Either way, the ad exposed her purported ambition and seeming rush for leadership positions coveted by others. When your ambition becomes too glaring too quickly, one’s

opponents will pounce.

Meanwhile, a video went viral of her showing off cum modelling a variety of luxury goods, collectively worth more than many of her constituents may make in a year. If the ad was unfortunate, the video was a disaster.

First it demonstrated stunningly bad judgement. Leaders are only partially elected or appointed for their skills. In the end, it a leader’s judgment that will have lasting consequences. In this social media age, why would she allow herself to be in such a video? It is the most amateurish of mistakes.

Further, what is the mindset that would brag about living in such luxury during one of the worst cost of living crises in an independent Bahamas? She played to the stereotype of a reality show celebrity enthralled with material goods.

Mrs Coleby-Davis apologised for the terrible judgment. But the fact that she was confronted by the mistake and had to apologise on a news programme means that considerable damage has been done to her politically within the county, the PLP, and her constituency.

Mrs Coleby-Davis may want to ponder the reality that the PLP may be yet another one-term government. This means that she has to win her seat.

If the FNM wins in a landslide, she might lose her seat and be out of the running for more senior leadership in the next political cycle.

Mr Cooper and the PLP remain the favorites to win Exuma. The Deputy Prime Minister is working diligently to recapture the seat. This includes work on a new international airport for the island and other projects. He will raise considerable money to win Exuma.

The cabinet ministry one has plays a role in political failure or success. As Minister of Energy and Transport, Mrs ColebyDavis will have to bear some of the burden for high electricity costs and the problems at BPL, the lack of transparency on energy reform, and the problems at Road Traffic.

Despite queries about the reality of tourism numbers, Mr Cooper can associate himself with good news in tourism, investments, and aviation.

There is no certainty that Chester Cooper will ever become PLP leader or prime minister. Still, thus far, he is a playing a longer and better game than others. Others with ambition may also be in the long game.

If Mrs Coleby-Davis wishes to rise and not burn out like Icarus, she must conceive and demonstrate a more sophisticated and better game, temper her excesses, and study more in-depth the laws and physics of political gravity and ambition.

MINISTER of Energy and Transport JoBeth Coleby-Davis during Legal Week hosted by the University of The Bahamas’s Law Society at the Harry C Moore Library Auditorium on January 27.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Immigration to the fore for start of Trump term

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump has on several occasions said publicly that he thinks the big issue driving his reelection last year was not the economy, as so many analysts believe.

Trump has said the key to his victory was immigration.

He has certainly made that issue the keynote of his early days and weeks back in office. As he did in his first term, Trump is clearly anxious to demonstrate forcefully that he does all he can to keep his campaign promises.

Within the first half of the first week of his second term, Trump issued ten executive orders on immigration. Speaking at a private symposium, Georgetown University professor and immigration expert Dr Katherine Donato offered some context to the president’s actions.

“President Trump’s use of executive orders has attracted the most attention on his handling of the immigration issue,” Donato told her audience. “There are several things to keep in mind on this. First, Trump has indeed issued far more such immigration orders far earlier in his administration than other presidents.

“But it is also true that reform of our antiquated US visa system has been overdue for more than 30 years. Consequently, every president since George W Bush has resorted to executive immigration orders to execute policy in the absence of Congressional action to pass reform legislation. And the reason for that failure is almost entirely political.

STATESIDE

“Trump’s threats to deploy active-duty US military at and near the southern border are naturally arousing fear and anger in immigrant communities across the US. Other presidents have deployed military units at the border, but heretofore, they have been in support roles such as assisting in border wall construction or other logistical assistance to other federal agencies.

“Trump has sent around 5,000 troops to the southern border already. But he seems to be considering ordering them to take leading roles in migrant apprehension and detention. This would be unprecedented, and would likely require legislation. In any case, many lawsuits will inevitably follow his actions.”

Donato also commented on Trump’s suspension of American refugee asylum dating back to 1980 legislation. Presidents, she said, can set annual ceilings. During Trump’s last year in office, for example, he set a limit of around 11,000 permitted refugees. Under president Joe Biden, the limits rose to around ten times that many. She also noted that deportations, as we know from our experiences with Haitians and Cubans inn The Bahamas, are expensive.

Legal challenges will follow Trump’s plan to overturn birthright citizenship, which is a right enshrined in the US constitution. And since 22 states have already sued to block Trump on this issue, no constitutional amendment is

likely any time soon.

Meantime, Trump has ordered his administration to prepare to house tens of thousands of “criminal aliens” at the US Navy base at Guantánamo Bay in eastern Cuba.

“We have 30,000 beds in Guantánamo to detain the worst criminal illegal aliens threatening the American people,” he said. “Some of them are so bad we don’t even trust the countries to hold them, because we don’t want them coming back, so we’re going to send them out to Guantánamo, a tough place to get out of.”

In the 1990s, ‘Gitmo’ was overwhelmed by more than 45,000 refugees fleeing crises in both Haiti and Cuba.

According to multiple news reports, they were housed in crude tent cities on the base, including on the current site of the Pentagon’s detention facility for detainees in the war against terrorism. Today, that facility houses only 15 prisoners and is staffed by 800 troops and civilians.

Thirty years ago, we in The Bahamas had a front row seat to that migrant crisis that led to those thousands of Haitians

and Cubans winding up in Guantanamo. Dozens of overloaded, often leaky vessels washed up on Bahamian shores carrying desperate Haitians and fewer Cubans who were trying to reach the American coast in Florida. Our defense force and the US Coast Guard were working overtime to intercept these migrants, and over many months thousands were apprehended. Pending repatriation to Haiti, many Haitians were often detained on Carmichael Road at a hurriedly constructed detention center.

Over the course of the past forty-plus years, we have seen aggressive US efforts to deter smuggling of people and drugs across its Mexican border persuade the criminal entrepreneurs who direct such endeavors turn to our waters as a viable alternative.

Such a deflection is of course a consequence of our geographical location. But as we look ahead, we might consider the possible consequences for us if the Americans succeed in securing their southern border.

CHIEFS FOR THREE IN A ROW - OR EAGLES TO SWOOP IN?

HAVE you been OK without football for the past 11 days? Millions of Americans have indulged in Super Bowl hype for what doubtless seems for them to be an interminable hiatus from their favorite spectator sport.

We have learned more than we could ever have imagined about the famous and obscure among the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs and their worthy and repeat opponents the Philadelphia Eagles.

It seems like the biggest story lines of this Super Bowl concern the Chiefs. They are seeking to win a third straight championship, a feat so far unachieved in the “Super Bowl Era” that officially began in January 1967 –with a 25-point Kansas City loss to the Green Bay Packers coached by Vince Lombardi, the toughest of them all, for whom the championship trophy is named.

None of the great dynasties of this modern era of American pro football has managed a “three-peat”. Green Bay, Miami, Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Dallas, Washington and of course New England have all had sustained success, but to win three in a row has eluded every one of them.

The Chiefs stand on the brink of history. Having won the past two

championships, including three-point victories over the Los Angeles Rams last year and the Eagles two years ago, Kansas City can make it three by beating Philadelphia again on Sunday afternoon in New Orleans.

The Chiefs have been criticised this year for winning by too-small margins. But as in the past two Super Bowls, they have been winning nonetheless. In these playoffs, they have already defeated the Bills and in doing so, they avenged their only real regular season defeat in Buffalo in November. Kansas City makes mistakes, but they often force more, and more costly, mistakes from their opponents.

The Eagles probably are the more talented team from top to bottom. And they have looked truly formidable in the playoffs, dispatching Green Bay, the Rams and Washington. They have looked stronger in each successive game. It’s not hard to get excited about this Philadelphia team, and many observers feel that with the off-season addition of star running back Saquon Barkley, the Eagles are set to win the title.

The Chiefs, though, act and play like a team, despite some hiccups. Their talented kicker made headlines last off-season with some bizarre social media posts. They have disposable parts at wide receiver and

running back.

But Kansas City has the indominable Chris Jones to rush and harass the passer. And they have the recordsetting pairing of tight end Travis Kelce and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. These two are legitimate stars, and their women partners are stars also. Mahomes’ wife is gaining notoriety in business and social media, and Kelce’s girlfriend is Taylor Swift. Coach Andy Reid led the Eagles for 13 years and has been at the helm of the Chiefs for 12 more seasons. He’s a really good, Hall of Fame coach. The team has stayed together and played hard for him. Led by their big stars and the example they set for their less famous comrades, the Chiefs seem to be united in their pursuit of history.

Kansas City is favored by 1-1/2 points. It says here that they make history with a win and cover the point spread.

Including the last two rounds of the college football playoffs and the three rounds of the NFL playoffs so far, we’ve offered predictions on the winner of each of these 13 games and also a forecast on who would cover the point spread. These notional bets have been successful exactly 75 percent of the time. Bettors will know that is well above average. Is that the lucky exception? Maybe we’ll see next year.

PRESIDENT Donald Trump signs an executive order as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, left, and Commerce Secretary nominee Howard Lutnick watch in the Oval Office of the White House, on Monday in Washington.

Photo: Evan Vucci/AP

with Charlie Harper

SENT TO JAIL FOR RECEIVING STOLEN CARS

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was sentenced to three and a half years in prison yesterday after admitting to receiving several stolen cars in New Providence over the past two months.

Senior Magistrate Kendra Kelly arraigned 23-year-old Geovany Octavien on six counts of stealing and three counts of receiving stolen property.

Prosecutors allege that Octavien and his accomplices stole a silver 2013 Nissan Note, valued at $6,000, from Rashad Sturrup on January 27. He is also accused of stealing a burgundy Nissan

Cube, valued at $6,500, from Michelda Laguerre on January 29, and a 2012 silver Nissan Note, valued at $6,800, from Janestine Dejean on January 31.

Octavien was reportedly found in possession of several of these stolen vehicles earlier this month.

While he pleaded guilty to the receiving charges, Octavien pleaded not guilty to the stealing charges. He was sentenced to three and a half years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDOCS).

The trial for the remaining charges will begin on April 15. Sergeant Vernon Pyfrom served as the prosecutor.

FINED FOR FAILING TO CHARGE ANKLE MONITOR

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was ordered to pay a fine after admitting to failing to charge his monitoring device while awaiting trial for another offence.

JUDGE REJECTS BID FOR RULING IN CASE OF WOMAN SHOT BY POLICE OFFICER

BY LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

A RECENT court ruling has dismissed an application for judgment in a negligence case filed by Precious Thompson-Curry, who was shot by a police officer while standing in her own yard.

The case stems from an incident on June 26, 2021, when Thompson-Curry was shot by a police officer while in her yard on Amos Ferguson Street, New Providence.

She filed a claim for damages, alleging that the officer, acting under the direction of the Commissioner of Police, negligently shot her.

The claimant sought special damages of $53,481.98, as well as further claims for general, exemplary, aggravated, and punitive damages. The claim detailed the officer’s failure to ensure her safety, exposing her to a foreseeable risk of injury.

The defendants admitted that Ms Thompson-Curry was shot but denied any negligence or recklessness, arguing the shooting was unintentional and occurred during a police operation to apprehend a suspect.

In support of her case, Ms Thompson-Curry presented a letter from the former Commissioner of Police, apologising for the incident, and a letter from the defendants’ counsel acknowledging the shooting but disputing negligence. The defendants’ defence admitted the shooting but maintained the officer acted in self-defence and to prevent further harm, asserting that the incident was accidental.

Senior Justice Deborah Fraser found that while the defendants acknowledged the shooting, their language did not constitute a clear admission of negligence.

The admission of facts like the shooting itself did not fulfill the requirements for judgment on admission, as the defendants denied

negligence.

In the ruling, Justice Fraser said that the admissions, though acknowledging the shooting, were not enough to establish clear liability or negligence.

She emphasised that the law requires “clear, unequivocal, and unambiguous” admissions for judgment on admission.

“The admission must be in writing and unambiguous,” the judge noted.

The judge also referenced past cases in which partial or unclear admissions failed to meet the standard required for judgment without a trial.

The issue of negligence — whether the officer had a duty of care, breached it, and caused ThompsonCurry’s injuries — was still in dispute.

As a result, Justice Fraser dismissed the application for judgment on admission and ordered the case to proceed to trial. Both sides were directed to bear their own costs associated with the application for judgment on admission.

Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville arraigned Mateo Fowler yesterday for violating his bail conditions. The defendant is currently awaiting trial on theft charges. While on release, Fowler reportedly failed to charge his monitoring device on multiple occasions in December and January. He pleaded guilty to the bail breach offences and expressed remorse for his actions.

Fowler was ordered to pay a fine of $3,100 or face a six-month prison term. He was also warned not to allow his monitoring device to run out of charge again in the future. Inspector Cordero Farrington served as the prosecutor.

BAIL FOR TEEN ACCUSED OF HOUSEBREAKING

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A TEENAGER accused of breaking into someone’s home last year was granted bail yesterday.

Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr arraigned a 17-year-old male, whose name is being withheld due to his age, on a charge of housebreaking. The defendant is alleged to have broken into a

residence in New Providence on February 15, 2024. After opting to continue his case before the magistrate, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Bail was set at $4,500 with one or two sureties.

As part of his bail conditions, the defendant must sign in at his local police station every Wednesday by 6pm. The trial is scheduled to begin on April 14.

MAN FACES COURT OVER POSSESSION OF PISTOL

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was granted bail yesterday after being accused of possessing a loaded firearm in New Providence last weekend.

Magistrate Lennox Coleby arraigned Garfield Rolle, 46, on charges of possession of an unlicenced firearm and possession of ammunition.

Prosecutors allege that officers found a black

Taurus G3C pistol and 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition on Rolle’s person while he was on William Street on February 2. Although Rolle initially pleaded guilty, claiming he had found the weapon and intended to turn it in to the police, a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf.

Rolle’s bail was set at $7,000 with one or two sureties.

The trial is scheduled to begin on March 27.

‘No conclusion soon’ on doctors union dispute

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

MORE than a week after government officials expressed hopes of finalising new industrial agreements with health unions as early as this month, a key healthcare stakeholder has expressed uncertainty about the timeline, citing a major issue still under dispute.

“It’s very difficult to say,” Consultant

Physicians Staff Association (CPSA) president Dr Charelle Lockhart said yesterday when asked how soon she expects negotiations to be completed.

This comes after Labour Minister Pia Glover Rolle told reporters last month that she was hopeful negotiations between the government, CPSA, and the Bahamas Doctors Union (BDU) would be concluded by early February.

The negotiations follow

NURSES SHOW BACKING FOR DIGITISATION

SUPPORT has been shown from nurses for efforts towards digitisation.

Members of the Bahamas Nurses Union (BNU) were recently given a presentation on Information Systems for Health Bahamas (IS4H), a digitalisation initiative that seeks to enhance efficiency, reduce administrative burdens and improve patient care.

BNU president Lightbourne hailed the project, and its anticipated benefits of reducing paperwork and administrative duties.

She said: “This system will allow us to spend less time on forms and more time doing what we lovecaring for our patients.”

The presentation was led by IS4H senior technical project manager David Strachan and Acting Director of Public Health Dr Phillip Swann. A Q&A session was also held, covering topics such as training requirements, pharmacy logistics, appointment scheduling, and payment options. The IS4H team clarified that all personnel who work directly with patients will receive training, and while digital payment options will be introduced, cash transactions will remain available. The team also assured attendees that inventory management and further system integrations are part of the long-term implementation plan.

a period of stalled contract talks, which culminated in industrial action taken by healthcare workers under the Trade Union Congress (TUC) last month.

Yesterday, Dr Lockhart expressed doubt that negotiations would conclude soon, telling The Tribune she had not heard back from Ms Glover Rolle.

“I haven’t heard back from Minister Glover, who promised to reach back out to me after her travels, but

I have not heard back from her here as yet, and so I cannot see any conclusion happening anytime soon,” she said.

She explained that the main sticking point involves whether consultant physicians should be required to clock in for work.

“I am optimistic that we can get back to what the Prime Minister had already promised us. That would be that the consultant physicians or the attending physicians, it is

not reasonable to ask us to clock in and that is the issue that we are having at the moment and so, we have already made a verbal agreement with the Prime Minister and we expect that is what is going to happen moving forward.”

BDU president Dr Camille Glinton-Thompson has previously said doctors are not opposed to recording their attendance but are seeking written guarantees for overtime compensation,

especially for the long hours worked on call.

Other unresolved issues include better working conditions, fair compensation, and the need for improved healthcare coverage.

“I am just hoping that we are able to all be in agreement very soon and that this comes to a conclusion very quickly,” Dr Lockhart said Mrs Glover-Rolle could not be reached for comment up to press time yesterday.

ACTING Director of Health and IS4H Bahamas Focal Point Dr Phillip Swann and Bahamas Nurses Union president Muriel Lightbourne.

Saving the environment by telling stories

TWO young Bahamians are seeking to inspire environmental action through compelling storytelling.

The Conservation Storytelling and Media (CSM) Internship has culminated in two projects by interns Lauren Ritchie and Quintez Bethel.

The internship, created by The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), provides emerging conservationists with the skills and experience needed to use film, photography, writing, and other forms of media as tools for advocacy.

Lauren Ritchie’s project, a short film titled “Preserve Our Heritage, Protect Our Future”, examines the historical relationship between Bahamians and their ecosystems – once balanced and thriving but now increasingly threatened by environmental degradation and climate change.

Her film calls viewers to recognise the urgency of conservation and take meaningful action to protect The Bahamas’ natural heritage.

Quintez Bethel’s project, an immersive photo essay titled “Through the Lens: Photography as a Tool for Conservation”, presents a striking collection of wildlife images captured throughout the internship. His work highlights the power of visual storytelling in conservation, illustrating how photography can inspire emotional connections to nature and drive environmental awareness.

The CSM Internship is a pioneering initiative that empowers

young Bahamians to tell conservation stories that resonate with diverse audiences.

By equipping them with the technical and creative skills necessary to produce impactful media, the program plays a critical role in shaping the future of conservation communication in The Bahamas.

“Proud doesn’t even begin to describe the feeling of seeing Lauren and Quintez’s completed capstone projects,” said Elijah Sands, BNT senior communications officer and CSM internship coordinator.

“From the start, this internship was about giving young Bahamians the opportunity to tell conservation stories in ways that resonate, inspire, and drive action — and that’s exactly what they accomplished with their projects. Witnessing the public’s response to these projects reinforces why investing in the next generation of conservation communicators is so critical. We can do all the conservation work we want, but if we can’t inspire people to care, the mission falls short. Lauren and Quintez have created powerful narratives that inspire action, and we are incredibly proud of their work.”

The Bahamas National Trust invites the public to experience these inspiring projects and support the next generation of conservation storytellers. To view the projects, visit: www.bnt. bs/csmcapstones. To learn more about the BNT, visit www.bnt.bs.

RF BANK SUPPORTS

CR WALKER SCHOOL

RF BANK & Trust (RF) has once again provided a monetary donation to CR Walker Senior High School.

This marks the third consecutive year that RF has supported the institution, further strengthening its dedication to fostering growth and opportunity for students.

RF has partnered with CR Walker on several projects.

In previous years, the bank has contributed to the construction of a greenhouse on campus and provided much-needed furnishings for the staff room.

This latest donation will aid the school in advancing key initiatives that enhance the learning environment for both students and educators.

“At RF, we believe that investing in education is an investment in the future of our communities,” said Rachael Allahar, AVP of marketing at RF Bank & Trust.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with CR Walker and look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives will have on the students and faculty.”

FROM left, Birdie Curtis, vice principal, Triver Culmer, principal, Rachael Allahar, marketing AVP, Tatum Gaitor, donations committee member, Richard Deal, vice principal.

LAUREN RITCHIE AND QUINTEZ BETHEL

Self-love in Christ

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net

SELF-WORTH can feel

like an uphill battle in a world that constantly promotes external validation.

Social media bombards us with filtered perfection, and society often measures value by success, beauty, or wealth. But what if true self-love isn’t found in the approval of others, but in the unwavering love of God?

For many believers, self-love begins with understanding how God sees them, which is fearfully and wonderfully made, cherished, and deeply loved.

The Bible reminds us of our worth in God’s eyes.

Psalm 139:13-14 declares: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Tribune Religion asked a number of Bahamians to share their thoughts on the topic. For Melissa Clarke, who was once a local youth minister; she mentioned how she struggled with self-esteem for years.

“I used to find my worth in what people thought of me, but I was never satisfied. It wasn’t until I started studying God’s word that I realised, I am loved just as I am,” said Melissa. She went on to say one verse that transformed her mindset was Zephaniah

STARTING IN PRAYER

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

PRAYER Works International is determined to start the year off on a powerful footing with focused activities that will minister to the mind, body, soul while also promoting fellowship among believers.

One of the first events kicking off the ministry’s calendar was its New Year’s Breakfast recently held under the theme “Inspire”.

The prayer breakfast was an opportunity for the ministry to set the tone for the year and the trajectory of where the ministry hopes to go and how it is going to get there.

The prayer breakfast at the home of visionary Minister Patrice and Kevin Bain was dubbed a “refreshing time” in fellowship.

“The breakfast was opened with praises and adoration to our great God for bringing us into a brand new year and for what he will do for us in the ensuing months ahead.”

The breakfast, Minister Bain said, also provided a motivational moment for intercessor.

“It was a time of fellowship and was geared to inspire and uplift the intercessors and friends for the new year. Each intercessor

was given a word that would serve as their theme for the new year. “When times of difficulties come they would draw from that word and scriptures fitting, to weather these challenging times. Each individual presented for about 3-5 mins, sharing from the Holy Spirit and the word, which brought transformation. Some of the words were: access, intentional, faith, hope, inspire, love and joy,” Minister Bain said.

The ministry also recently held a church service the also at the Church of God of Prophecy, Carmichael Road, where Minister Bain

3:17, which states: “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”

Melissa said that image of God rejoicing over her was powerful, and it reminded her that she doesn’t have to earn love - because she already has it.

The pressures of comparison and perfection can make self-love difficult. Jason Rolle, another local Christian, believes that many struggle with self-worth because they measure themselves against the wrong standards.

“The world tells us that our value is based on how we look, how much

we achieve, or how many people like us. But when we define ourselves by those things, we’ll always feel like we’re not enough. God’s love is constant, and our worth is already secure in Him,” he said.

Jason encouraged readers to replace negative self-talk with scripture. “ Whenever I feel discouraged, I don’t do it all the time, but I go back to 1 John 3:1. That is a scripture that states, see what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are,” said Jason.

He said that particular verse reminds him that he belongs to God, and for him, that’s enough.

Understanding God’s love is just the beginning, as

Simone Wells expressed the importance of recognising yourself as God’s creation.

“I used to think self-love was selfish. But then I realised that if I’m made in God’s image, dishonouring myself means dishonouring Him. Self-love isn’t prideful, it’s an act of gratitude. I preach this to my friends, my family and my children. I use to be someone that continuously poured into other, leaving not much to pour into myself. And I didn’t need a therapist to let me know how unhealthy this was. Changing that about myself was one of the best things I ever did,” said Simone. When it comes to her faith, Simone said she uses biblical truths in the form of affirmations. Scriptures

like Ephesians 2:10, “ I am God’s masterpiece.”

“I say no to things that drain me spiritually or emotionally. I spend time with God to be reminded of His love. When you see yourself the way God sees you, you won’t settle for less than what He wants for you,” Simone added. As a Christian believer myself, I believe when we align our identity with His word, we stop searching for validation in the world and start walking in confidence, knowing we are deeply loved and valued. So as love season is upon us, before looking for love elsewhere, take a moment to reflect: Do you see yourself the way God sees you? Because in His eyes, you are already enough.

brought remarks giving thanks to God for the past seven years.

The ministry will host more events and its intercessory training in the weeks. The training is geared to equip and sharpen the skills of the intercessors.

Minister Bain said: “We are looking forward to this eighth year, new beginnings. The group prayed for the church and the membership, covering the entire year and Bishop Terrance and Lady Terrell Forbes. An offering was taken and presented to the church.

Bishop Terrance along with Min Melvin Lundy anointed the group and prayed blessings over all that they are endeavouring to do. To God be the glory, great things He has done.”

SPORTS

Sir Durward Knowles National Jr Sailing Championships slated for February 20-22

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

OVER 200 junior sailors will have a great opportunity to put their sailing skills on display at the 2025 Sir Durward Knowles National Junior Sailing Championships February 20-22 at the Montagu foreshore.

The three-day competition is geared towards highlighting the decorated legacy of Olympian Sir Durward Knowles as well as the talents of the junior sailors across The Bahamas.

Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs Clay Sweeting, shared his expectations for the national junior regatta.

“We are expecting a number of sailors across the islands. We have new

sailing clubs that didn’t participate last year and we have Spanish Wells coming this year which is a new club.

“We have seen the growth in the development of sailing.

“A lot of these same young people that participate in this regatta you will see some of them able to participate in Best of the Best and other regattas throughout the country so we have seen an increase in development and in participation from young people,” he said.

Junior sailors hailing from Exuma, Grand Bahama, Spanish Wells, Harbour Island, Eleuthera and New Providence will battle on the waters for bragging rights. Sailors will compete in the optis, sunfish, laser and E class categories.

CLAY SWEETING, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, shares his expectations for the

Sweeting emphasised the importance of honouring Knowles in the hosting of this event.

“The Sir Durward Knowles National Championship is a celebration of the determined spirit of our youth, their passion for the open waters and a

tribute to the legendary Sir Durward Knowles, a Bahamian icon and Olympic gold medallist.

“Sir Durward Knowles embodied excellence in sailing and left an enduring legacy in the world of maritime sportsmanship. It is only fitting that we

continue his mission by hosting this national championship, providing young sailors from all across our beautiful nation the opportunity to test their skills and compete in various competitions,” he said.

Minister Sweeting added that the government is adamant about lending the same support to junior sailors as they did to senior sailors at the 2024 Best of the Best Regatta last December.

“The National Junior Sailing Championships is a testament to the unwavering support of the government for young Bahamians.

“We extend the same energy and commitment to them as we did for the senior sailors during the Best of the Best Regatta.

SEE PAGE 18

Championship matchups set

THE SPORTS CALENDAR

PHILADELPHIA (AP)

— Joel Embiid had 29 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists in his first action in a month to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a 118-116 victory Tuesday night over the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs fell to 0-2 since trading star Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Embiid recorded his first triple-double of an injuryplagued season in which he’s appeared in just 14 games.

A left knee injury sidelined the seven-time All-Star for the previous 15 games, and he wore a large brace on the knee.

But he looked like his usual self, especially down the stretch.

Embiid’s layup with 22 seconds left put Philadelphia ahead by a point. He grabbed a rebound on the Mavericks’ next

BAHAMIAN big man

Deandre Ayton and the Portland Trail Blazers are quietly having a decent season in the Western Conference despite having low expectations coming into the National Basketball Association (NBA) regular season.

The team picked up their fifth straight victory with a 112-89 win over the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday night at the Moda Centre in Portland, Oregon.

Ayton, who has been on a tear as of late, pitched in eight points, nine rebounds and two steals in over 22 minutes of action. He made 50 per cent of his field goals, shooting 4-for-8 in the contest.

The latest victory helped Portland to improve to 22-29 (win/loss record) in the Western Conference, good enough for a .431 winning percentage. The Trail Blazers have been putting together a strong showing in their last 10 outings. They have claimed victories in nine out of their last 10 matchups.

Ayton has also played an important role for the Trail Blazers in the frontcourt during this 10-game stretch. He has averaged 15.9 ppg, 10.7 rpg and 1.7 apg while shooting an efficient 57.6 per cent from the field. For the season the 26-year-old is averaging 14.6 ppg and 10.4 rpg (11th in the league) on 57.2 per cent shooting (11th in the

SEE PAGE 16

possession and then defended the final play of the game when Dallas turned it over.

Tyrese Maxey had 33 points and 13 assists for the Sixers.

Kyrie Irving scored 34 points for the Mavs, Naji Marshall added 19 and Klay Thompson contributed 12.

Newly acquired Anthony Davis (abdominal injury) didn’t play but was courtside after Sunday’s trade that brought him to Dallas in exchange for

Sir Durward Knowles National Junior Sailing Championships.

DEANDRE Ayton is all smiles following their team’s win over the Phoenix Suns on Monday. (AP Photo/Amanda Loman)

Chappell Whyms Jr

FIVE STRAIGHT WINS

DEANDRE AYTON AND TRAIL BLAZERS ARE ON

A 5-GAME WINNING STREAK

league). Prior to the win against the Pacers, he dropped 25 points and 20 rebounds against his former team the Phoenix Suns in a 121-119 overtime victory at home.

The Trail Blazers had five players hit double-digit scoring numbers against the Pacers on Tuesday night.

Anfernee Simons led the team on the stat sheet with 22 points, seven dimes and three boards in 32 minutes.

Forward Jerami Grant also pitched in 20 points to

pair with two rebounds in the ball game. Portland had all the momentum after extending the lead to 27-18 in the first period. Indiana shaved the deficit down to just 38-34 with 2:18 to go until halftime. The Trail Blazers managed to cap off the first half on top 45-38.

The victors once again imposed their will on the game as Ayton nailed a seven footer to push the lead up to 10 (62-52) at almost the halfway mark of the third. The Bahamian big man responded

once again, this time with a thunderous jam at the 3:12 mark to put the Blazers ahead by 15 (71-56).

Portland took full control of the game at that

point and held on for the victory. The team collectively shot 44.6 per cent while holding the Pacers to 42 per cent shooting from the field. The Trail Blazers

also won the rebound battle 51-39. Next up on the schedule for Ayton and the Trail Blazers will be the Sacramento Kings 7pm tonight at home.

LUKA DONCIC COULD MAKE HIS LAKERS DEBUT AS EARLY AS SATURDAY

By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports Writer

EL SEGUNDO, Calif.

(AP) — Luka Doncic could make his debut with the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, coach JJ Redick said yesterday.

Doncic participated in his first practice with the Lakers since joining the team in a stunning trade with Dallas last weekend.

The Slovenian superstar hadn’t played for the Mavericks since he strained his left calf on Christmas Day.

Doncic won’t play when the Lakers open a threegame homestand against the Golden State Warriors tonight, but last season’s NBA scoring champion has a good chance to return when the Lakers host the Indiana Pacers on Saturday or the Utah Jazz on Monday night.

“We’re kind of just assessing it day by day,” Redick said. “We hope to have him back within the next few games. We just had noncontact practice today, but we got some good work in for about 45 minutes, and he’ll have a stay-ready game at some point over the next two days.

“He’ll have some more opportunities to play live basketball, and then we’ll make a decision on Saturday. If it’s not Saturday, hopefully it’s Monday. (But) those decisions will be made on Saturday.”

The NBA’s broadcasters were paying attention: Shortly after Redick spoke, ESPN announced it would televise the Pacers-Lakers game on Saturday, bumping a Jazz-Suns game.

Doncic watched from the bench at Intuit Dome on Tuesday night while LeBron James led a 122-97 blowout of the Clippers for the Lakers’ ninth victory in 11 games.

James is still coming to grips with the trade of Anthony Davis, his close friend and teammate for 5 1/2 years, but already sounded excited about forming a new partnership with Doncic.

Lillard scores 29 points as Bucks beat Hornets

CHARLOTTE, N.C.

(AP) — Damian Lillard

had 29 points and 12 assists, Bobby Portis had 23 points and 17 rebounds in his first game since January 23 and the Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Charlotte Hornets 112-102 last night in their first game since trading longtime guard Khris Middleton.

Brook Lopez added 14 points on four 3s as the Bucks snapped a four-game losing skid.

Nick Smith Jr. had 23 points on four 3s for Charlotte, which has lost six straight.

Lillard was forced to carry the load for the Bucks, who played without Giannis Antetokounmpo. Antetokounmpo went through pre-game warmups and was introduced before being scratched due to left calf soreness minutes before tipoff.

CAVALIERS 118, PISTONS 115

DETROIT (AP) — Darius Garland hit a 31-foot 3-pointer at the buzzer to give Cleveland a win over Detroit.

The Cavaliers, playing without All-Star Donovan Mitchell who missed the

The Bucks pushed their lead to 21 in the third quarter, repeatedly getting open looks from beyond the arc against a depleted Hornets roster.

game with a shoulder contusion, overcame nine points from Detroit’s Cade Cunningham in 11 seconds. Cunningham made it 112109 with a 3-pointer with 16 seconds left, but Garland hit a free throw to make it a two-possession game. Cunningham made three free throws to pull Detroit within one with 7.3 seconds to go. The Pistons fouled Garland, who made 115-112. Cleveland fouled Cunningham on a 3-point attempt, and he hit all three, tying the game with five seconds left. Garland rushed down the court and hit the winning shot from just inside the centre-court logo.

Evan Mobley had 30 points for Cleveland and Garland added 25. Cunningham had 38 points, nine assists and seven rebounds.

SPURS 126, HAWKS 125

ATLANTA (AP) — Victor Wembanyama broke a tie with a free throw with 2.4 seconds left and De’Aaron Fox scored 24 points in his first game for San Antonio, leading the Spurs to a victory over Atlanta.

Fox arrived from Sacramento in a three-team trade Sunday and started in his San Antonio debut as Wembanyama’s new point guard.

Wembanyama, who also had 24 points, intentionally missed the second free throw, denying Atlanta the opportunity for an inbounds play. Trae Young missed a last-second 3-pointer.Wembanyama added 12 rebounds. Fox matched his season high

with 13 assists.Young had 32 points with 12 assists for Atlanta. Onyeka Okongwu had a career-high 30 points.

WIZARDS 119, NETS 102 NEW YORK (AP) — Jordan Poole scored 19 points to lead Washington to a win over Brooklyn. Poole was one of six Wizards (9-41) to finish in double-figure scoring as Washington won its third straight game.

Kyshawn George and Corey Kispert each had 17 while Bub Carrington chipped in 16. Keon Johnson scored 25 points and Cam Johnson added 17 for Brooklyn (17-34).

Leading 88-73 entering the fourth quarter, the Wizards used a 15-9 spurt in the first 5 1/2 minutes to extend their lead to 103-82. Kispert, Carrington, and George each knocked down long 3s in the stretch.

GRIZZLIES 138, RAPTORS 107

TORONTO (AP) — Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 32 points, Ja Morant had 16 of his 26 in the third quarter and Memphis won their fourth straight game, routing Toronto. Making his first professional appearance in his home city, Grizzlies rookie Zach Edey had 13 points and 14 rebounds for his eighth double-double and third in three games. The Grizzlies won their third consecutive meeting with the Raptors and their fifth straight in Toronto. Memphis scored a franchise-record 155 points in a December 26 home win over Toronto, including 78 in the first half. The Grizzlies didn’t match that mark yesterday, but a seasonhigh 85 points in the second half got them close. Jamal Shead, Ochai Agbaji and Ja’Kobe Walter each scored

14 points for the Raptors. Gradey Dick had 13 and Scottie Barnes added 11.

HEAT 108, 76ERS 101

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Tyler Herro scored 30 points yesterday and Bam Adebayo had 18 points and 13 rebounds as Miami defeated Philadelphia on the night the Heat traded Jimmy Butler to Golden State.

The game played out amid online reports in the first half that Butler would be traded to the Warriors. Butler was suspended by the team for the game, and Josh Richardson, also reportedly part of the deal, was out with a foot injury. Tyrese Maxey scored 31, his seventh straight scoring at least 30 points. Kelly Oubre Jr. added 15 points and 11 rebounds. The 76ers forced 22 turnovers but couldn’t capitalise on them.

PORTLAND Trail Blazers centre Deandre Ayton (2) dunks against the Indiana Pacers during the first half of an NBA basketball game on Tuesday in Portland, Oregon. (AP Photo/Amanda Loman)

PORTLAND Trail Blazers centre Deandre Ayton (2) is interviewed following an NBA basketball game against the Phoenix Suns on Monday, February 3, in Portland, Oregon. (AP Photo/ Amanda Loman)

BUCKS guard Damian Lillard (0) shoots over Charlotte Hornets forward Moussa Diabate during the second half last night. (AP Photo/Nell Redmond)

BAISS basketball championship matchups all set

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

THE remaining four teams in the 2025 Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) sudden death playoffs secured a finals berth yesterday at the Kendal GL Isaacs (KGLI) Gymnasium.

The St John’s College (SJC) Giants now have four teams in the finals after their junior girls, junior boys and senior boys joined the senior girls in advancing to the championship round.

The first seeded Giants junior girls pummelled the fourth seeded Queen’s College (QC) Comets 39-6 in their sudden death matchup.

In the following game, the fourth seeded Giants dealt the first seeded St Augustine’s College (SAC) Big Red Machine a sudden death 36-28 in the junior boys’ game.

The top seed Kingsway Academy (KWA) Saints cruised to a comfortable 53-9 victory against the fourth seeded Jordan Prince WIlliam Falcons to return to the senior girls’ championship.

In the final matchup of the night, the first seeded Giants eliminated the defending champions Charles W Saunders Cougars 65-40 in the senior boys’ showdown.

Junior Girls

It was a tough night for the QC Comets with the lid covering the basket for the first three quarters of the game.

The Giants blitzed the Comets defence for a 14-0 advantage to start the game in the first period of play.

While QC struggled to put the ball in the hole, the Giants kept the offensive barrage going to sit comfortably ahead 25-0 at the intermission.

SJC stormed into the second half feeling confident and once again held the Comets’ junior girls to a scoreless quarter.

The scoring drought did not end until Aryanna Hernandez drained a jumper at the 4:08 mark of the fourth quarter to get QC on the scoreboard but it was too little, too late.

The Giants outscored QC 14-6 in the second half to move on to the finals.

Azariah Duncombe led all scorers with 10 points in the victory for SJC. Hernandez pitched in a team-high four points for QC in the blowout loss.

The Giants are now set to take on the Charles W Saunders Cougars in the junior girls’ finals.

Junior Boys Despite some adversity in the regular season, the SJC Giants junior boys will be returning to the BAISS championship for a chance at repeating as champions.

The Big Red Machine fought hard against the Giants but the latter simply wanted it more down the stretch.

Head coach Dastyn Baker was emotional as he spoke about the team’s gritty win.

“It is just a testament of hard work and effort. My guys just locked in and they wanted to win, and they pulled it off,” he said.

BUDDY HIELD SCORES 18 FOR WARRIORS IN 131-128 LOSS TO JAZZ

By JOHN COON Associated Press

SALT LAKE CITY (AP)

— Jordan Clarkson scored 31 points and Keyonte

George added 26 to lead the Utah Jazz to a 131-128 victory over the Golden State Warriors last night.

Isaiah Collier added 20 points and 11 assists.

Walker Kessler chipped in 15 points and 18 rebounds and John Collins added 19 points.

Stephen Curry led Golden State with 32 points and seven assists.

Brandin Podziemski added a career-high 29 points and Chavano “Buddy” Hield chipped in 18.

Golden State played with a shortened rotation after trading for Jimmy Butler earlier in the day.

Trailing Utah 100-96 following a jumper by Collier,

Golden State went ahead when Curry and Hield combined to make three straight 3-pointers during an 11-0 run. Two more back-to-back 3s from Curry and Hield made it 120-110 with 3:30 left.

Utah made four straight baskets — highlighted by a pair of 3-pointers from Clarkson — and took a 127-126 lead on George’s 3-pointer with 27 seconds left.

Takeaways Warriors: Podziemski had his third 20-point game of the season and two have come against the Jazz. He’s averaging 21.3 points per game against Utah this season.

Jazz: Kessler has 46 rebounds over his last three contests.

Photos by Chappell Whyms Jr

plays and made the right plays for us to be successful and win the game,” he said.

While the long-range buckets were not falling for SAC, the Giants found a way to make their shots count.

The Giants responded in critical moments down the stretch. The team held the lead 24-23 after SAC scored a two-pointer off an inbounds possession.

SJC’s Deandre Baker answered back with a three from the left wing to go up 27-23.

It was still anybody’s game through three quarters in the junior boys’ matchup.

SAC’s Christian McKinney called bank on a three for a 19-17 lead with under a minute to go, but SJC’s Kayden Deveaux responded with another on the other end.

The Giants were ahead 21-19 going into the final period.

Baker shared his message to the team during the final stretch.

“I told them that big time players make big time plays and they just gutted it out. They made the big time

SAC started to build some last minute momentum in the fourth quarter but SJC’s Addison Bethel converted on a reverse layup to close out the game for the Giants.

Baker pitched in 11 points for the Giants.

The victors will now match up against the JPW Falcons in the junior boys’ best-of-three championship series.

Senior Girls

The senior girls contest between the Saints and Falcons showed similar patterns of the junior girls’ ball game earlier in the evening.

The Saints grounded the Falcons from the opening

tip. The team emerged with an early 7-0 lead in the first quarter and kept their feet on the gas the rest of the way.

Head coach Tamaro Butler was happy for the team’s return to the finals.

“We have been here before and we were here last year. We didn’t win so we came back and are gonna try to finish off the job this year.

“We played good defence, executed and did what we were supposed to do,” he said.

The Saints ran ahead by as much as 24 (24-0) in the second quarter before the Falcons broke the dry spell with a single make at the charity stripe.

The halftime score was 31-5.

The Saints did not play around in the second half, outscoring the Falcons 22-4 en route to another finals appearance. National team player Andica Curtis turned in a game-high 25 points for the Saints.

Coach Butler wants the team to clean up on the missed point blank opportunities and to take care of the ball in the next round.

The team will look to avenge last year’s finals loss this time around against the SJC Giants.

Senior boys The first seeded Giants did not give the defending champions any chance at repeating as the senior boys’ title holders.

After closing the first quarter with a narrow 11-7 lead, the Giants started to widen the gap against the Cougars.

The team went up 21-8 at the 4:33 mark but the Cougars managed to close in 23-16 late in the second period.

The Giants responded to the Cougars’ run with 15 straight points to extend the deficit to 38-16 at the halftime break.

The second half was no different. The Giants were in the driver’s seat 50-22 with 3:13 left to go in the third.

The team never looked back in the contest.

SJC’s Leonardo Rolle finished the game with 24 points. He scored 10 of those in the second quarter. The 2025 BAISS best-ofthree championship series begins 4pm Monday in the KGLI Gym.

GOLDEN State Warriors guard Chavano “Buddy” Hield (7) guards Utah Jazz guard Isaiah Collier (13), during the first half of an NBA basketball game last night in Salt Lake City.

(AP Photo/Rick Egan)

ON THE REPLAY: BAISS students in action last night in the Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools sudden death playoffs at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium.

ELITE STARZ IN SPOTLIGHT AT USA FLAG WORLDS CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

WHILE being new to flag football with only seven months of experience, the Elite Starz made a mark at the USA Flag Worlds Championship Tournament 2025. Both 12u and 10u teams competed and advanced to playoffs.

The under 12 age group (12U) lost in the playoffs battling with the Redzone Allstarz 16-0.

The under 10 age group (10U) successfully defeated the NexGen team by one point in overtime.

Nexgen came into the playoffs undefeated and took their first loss playing

CYCLING

TOUR de GRAND

BAHAMA

THE 12th annual Tour de Grand Bahama is shaping up to be an exciting event this weekend with competitors from Canada, New Providence, Turks and Caicos and the United States.

The event is being organised by Grand Bahama Cycling Association (GBCA) and will feature a three stage competition featuring a time trial, criterium and road race sponsored by the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA).

Cyclists will compete in five categories: Male Open, Masters Open, Women’s Open, U23 Males and Junior.

Kami Roach, the top female cyclist, will be back to defend her title in the Women’s Open category, while it’s expected that Kohath Barron, a cyclist from Dominica, will also return to defend his men’s crown.

Former men’s champion, Canadian cyclist Mark Sherboneau, will also be among the field of more than 60 competitors.

Stage one of the championships will be a time trial 7am Saturday at the International Bazaar. It will travel along East Sunrise Highway to the Coral Road roundabout and back to the starting point. Stage 2 is the criterium race, which

the Elite Starz. Elite Starz 10U moved onto bracket semifinals where the team lost

“Overall it was a great experience for their first time breaking international grounds. Elite youth flag football was headed by the first female youth flag football coaches Mrs Samone Bowleg (president) 10U coach and Ms Shaniqua Thompson, 12U coach. “We look forward to competing locally and internationally, for this is just the beginning to further develop the sport and the youths of the Bahamas,” according to a press release.

consists of several laps around a closed circuit, will lose out day one.

And on day two on Sunday at 8am, the cyclists will compete in a gruelling 80-mile road race for men; 60 miles for women and 40 miles for the juniors.

It will start at the GBPA headquarters in downtown Freeport, go north on East Mall to the Grand Bahama International Airport roundabout, east along Grand Bahama Highway to the Sir Jack Hayward Bridge roundabout, come back along Grand Bahama Highway to East Mall, south to the Ranfurly Circus then along East Sunrise Highway to the Casuarina Bridge and return to the starting point.

CYCLING

NPCA ACTION

During the month of February, the New Providence Cycling Association will hold two separate events, Saturday, February 15Cycling Clinic at the Queen Elizabeth Sprots Centre, eastern parking lot next to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium, The event will run from 9-11 am. Refreshments will be provided. Sunday, February 23King of the Hills Cycling Championships, starting 8:30am on Fort Charlotte Hill. The winner will be crowned the King of the Hills for 2025. Registration forms for this event can be picked up from the Cycles Bike Store or contact the NPCA. The categories include elite men, open women, under-23. male/female,

masters’ male over 40 years, masters’ male over 55 years, 15-17 boys and girls, 12-014 boys and girls and 9-11 boys and girls.

TRACK RED-LINE

ATHLETES’ FIELD EVENT CLASSIC

THE Red-Line Athletics

Track Club has announced plans to host its second annual Field Event Classic.

The country’s all field events only meet is scheduled for Saturday, February 22 at the original Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

The event is set to take place from 9am to 3pm and will be open to competitors from the under-11 to open categories for men and women.

All winners will receive crystals and the top three will earn medals. Athletes can register at redlineathletics242@gmail.com or smnbutler@yahoo.com

TRACK

NPA TRACK CLASSIC

THE Noble Preparatory Academy is all set to hold its 2025 Track and Field Classic on Saturday, March 15 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium from 9am to 6pm.

The registration deadline is March 11. Athletes can register at info@npabahamas.com

ROAD RACE

UNCLE LOU FUN RUN/WALK

THE St Augustine’s College and the Alumni Association is inviting the general public to come out and participate in the Uncle Lou Fun Run/Walk.

Under the theme: “Paint the streets red,” the event will take place on Saturday, March 15, starting 6am at SAC’s campus off Bernard Road.

The route will leave SAC’s campus and head on Bernard Road, turn onto Soldier Road to Prince Charles Drive, turn east onto Prince Charles Drive and head back to SAC.

The registration fee is $20 for adults and $10 for persons under the age of 20. The first 200 participants will receive road race t-shirts.

Persons can register now by logging onto www.saintaugustinescollege.com

Following the race, a health screening will take place. There will also be a souse out with chicken priced at $10, pig feet at $12 and sheep tongue at $15. Drinks will also be on sale.

For more information, persons can call 242-324-1511or email Thesacalumni@gmail.com

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. 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

SIR DURWARD KNOWLES NATIONAL JR SAILING FEBRUARY 20

FROM PAGE 15

“Sir Durward Knowles helped to put our country on the map for sailing in 1964 when he won a gold medal at the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. We are hopeful that from among the current generation of junior sailors we will achieve similar success,” Sweeting said.

The Exuma Sailing Club emerged victorious last year at the event’s return for the first time since 2018.

Joss Knowles, of the Exuma Sailing Club, won the E-class.

Norman Cartwright, of the Bahamas National Sailing School, was crowned the champion of the laser class. Additionally, Finley McKinney-Lambert prevailed in the optis and Edward Knowles Jr held his own in the opti green fleet.

Sweeting encouraged sailing enthusiasts to come out and support the youth this month.

“We welcome all sailing enthusiasts and visitors to join our youth in showcasing the best of the best in youth sailing. We challenge the keen supporters who showed up for the Best of the Best and senior sloop sailing to do likewise for our young people. We look forward to another successful national junior sailing competition,” he said.

Event organisers have partnered with the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism, the Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority, the Antiquities Monuments & Museums Corporation, ZNS and Aliv.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

BAHAMAS

OPEN HOUSE

SPECIAL Olympics

Bahamas is preparing to hold their open house on Dolphin Drive on February 11, 18 and 25 and everyone is invited to attend any session.

Every Tuesday during the month of February, 2025 between the hours of 10am and 3pm, Special Olympics is iinviting the general public along with family and friends to visit our office at #24 Dolphin Drive to view our Wall of Fame.

While there, they are asking for guests to sign their Visitor’s Register and leave a phone contact for an opportunity to receive one of their “Special” Red Balls. “Shake hands with our athletes and chat with one of our stars,” said a press release. “Join the Inclusion Revolution today.” Donations of any amount are welcomed and appreciated during the open house dates.

LOVE AND ROMANCE

ROAD RACE AT 6am on Saturday, February 8, Love and Romance will take to the asphalt at our 3rd annual couples, Valentines-themed 5k Fun, Run Walk Push.

Hundreds of couplesadorned in their red and white sports outfit - will be running, walking, skating and biking together from Arawak Cay to Go Slow Bend and back. They will traverse along scenic West Bay Street, while being entertained with romantic instrumental

music, local artists singing and civic groups cheering them on along the route. They return to the valentine-themed Race Village where they will receive awards, prizes and surprises. For more information, persons are asked to contact Marcel Major at 242-804-8595.

RUGBY SEASON AFTER making some minor repairs to the Winton rugby pitch, the Bahamas Rugby Union opened its 2025 season on Saturday. The BRU will also play matches on Saturday, February 8, Saturday, February 22, Saturday, March 8 and Saturday, March 22. All ages and all abilities are welcome, including men and women, ‘Golden Oldies’ teams and beginners and seasoned players. The BRU is also inviting persons to come and try rugby this year. The only equipment needed are tennis/cleats and PE kit.For further information, persons are urged to call (242) 812-0417.

TRACK DLT TRACK CLASSIC THE Roadrunners Track and Field Club is scheduled to hold its 19th annual Diana Lynn Thompson Track Classic at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium on Saturday, February 15. The entry deadline is Friday, February 7. Entries can be emailed to roadrunnerstrackclub@ hotmail.com or contact club president and head coach Dexter Bodie at 434-7706 or 477-1198. The registration fee is $15 per athlete.

ELITE Youth Flag Football Bahamas team at the USA Flag Worlds Championship January 16-20.

ELITE Youth Flag Football Bahamas team with the first female youth flag football coaches Mrs Samone Bowleg and Ms Shaniqua Thompson.

GOVERNOR General Dame Cynthia Pratt recognises the work of the Government House staff at the Office of the Governor General’s Staff Appreciation Luncheon and Awards Ceremony on January 30 in the ballroom of Government House.

Photos: Patrick Hanna/BIS

Students join in planting at Dover Sound aiming for million mangrove goal

WATERKEEPERS

Bahamas hosted a largescale mangrove planting at Dover Sound on Monday in recognition of World Wetlands Day.

A total of 28 students from St George’s High School, Lucaya International School, St Paul’s Methodist College, and local homeschoolers participated in the event.

They planted 2,000 red mangroves alongside teachers, representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Blue Action Lab, the Bahamas National Trust, and volunteers, including the team from Lignum Vitae Market.

“We are always excited to engage young people in this work because everything we do to restore and protect our wetlands is for their future,” said Andurah Daxon, executive director of Waterkeepers Bahamas.

“Mangroves are critical to our island’s resilience, providing coastal protection, supporting marine life, and acting as natural carbon sinks. Seeing students get their hands in the mud and participate in these efforts is truly inspiring.”

This was the first time St Paul’s Methodist College participated in a mangrove planting event, marking an exciting and educational milestone for students and teachers.

For Ronnique Musgrove, an agricultural

science teacher, the experience was an invaluable learning opportunity for her students.

“Being here today has given my students a handson connection to what we discuss in the classroom,” Musgrove shared. “It’s one thing to talk about climate change and coastal erosion, but actually planting mangroves and seeing where they will grow makes the lesson real. I know they’ll carry this experience with them for years to come.”

World Wetlands Day, celebrated annually on February 2, highlights the importance of wetlands in maintaining biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and protecting coastal communities.

Mangrove wetlands, in particular, are vital for The Bahamas, offering storm surge protection, serving as essential nurseries for fish and marine species, and helping to combat climate change by storing carbon.

While the students were getting their hands muddy, Waterkeepers Bahamas volunteers Thom and Lorna Saiz had a unique experience of their own. The couple has been dedicated volunteers at the mangrove nursery, helping to care for young seedlings, but this was their first time participating in an actual planting.

“We’ve spent time nurturing these little mangroves, but today, we got

to see them go into the ground,” said Thom.

“Being part of the process from nursery to nature was so rewarding.”

Lorna added: “Being out here with the students, seeing their excitement and curiosity, makes us hopeful for the future. They are the next generation of conservationists.”

A student from Lucaya International School carefully places a mangrove into the ground at Dover Sound.

This planting was the first of many scheduled for 2025 as part of the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance’s mission to plant one million mangroves across Grand Bahama and Abaco.

A STUDENT from Lucaya International School carefully places a mangrove into the ground at Dover Sound.

STUDENTS and teachers from St George’s High School proudly hold buckets filled with mangroves as they stand with Waterkeepers Bahamas executive director Andurah Daxon.

STUDENTS, teachers, representatives from the Bahamas National Trust, the Ministry of Tourism, Waterkeepers Bahamas staff, and volunteers gather for a celebratory group photo at Dover Sound.

72 REASONS TO CELEBRATE AT UNIVERSITY GRADUATION

THE University of The Bahamas (UB) celebrated the accomplishments of 72 new graduates from UB North’s CeLearn Programme in Grand Bahama, marking their success in the 2023-2024 academic year. The programme offers courses providing opportunities for both professional and personal development, including accounting, human resource management, project management, preschool education, and the newly introduced dental assistant programme.

Dr Ian Strachan, executive vice-president of UB said: “The more the University of The Bahamas can provide personal and professional development

opportunities for our citizens, the more we can help build a resilient and competitive workforce. The better our workforce, the better our economy and therefore the better our commonwealth. So I say to you, don’t stop here. Keep learning, keep growing, UB wants to help you chase your dreams.”

Dr Maria WoodsideOriakhi, Provost and vice-president of academic affairs, said: “Your dedication, your hard work, and your perseverance have brought you to this moment and we are proud to celebrate both your success and the bright future you have ahead.”

Juda Forbes, who earned a certificate in project

management, said: “This experience has been more than just coursework; it’s been about growth, teamwork, and learning to see the bigger picture in everything we do.

“It’s been a life-changing experience for us and to anybody considering this path, just know what you put in is what you will get out.”

Christy Maycock, a graduate of the dental assistant programme, said her journey was defined by hard work, perseverance, and significant growth. She emphasised the value of the relationships formed along the way, which helped make difficult times easier and made the achievements even more fulfilling.

Photos: Andrew Miller/BIS