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Biggest And Best!
All systems go
DPM says safeguards in place as Bahamas set for as many as 20 SpaceX rocket landings in 2025
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
GOVERNMENT
officials sought to allay environmental concerns yesterday as The Bahamas prepares to host its first of 20 SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster landings this year, insisting that safeguards are in place to protect marine ecosystems and that the partnership does not conflict with the country’s climate change advocacy.
Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper said environmental protection remains a top priority and that foreign investors must meet strict environmental standards before
Teacher accused of indecen T assaulT of 15-year-old boy
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 45-yEAR-OlD teacher was granted bail yesterday after being accused of inappropriate behaviour toward a 15-year-old male student at RM Bailey High School last week.
Assistant Chief
Magistrate Carolyn Vogt Evans arraigned Franklyn Donaldson on charges of indecent assault. The defendant appeared surprised by the charge. Prosecutors allege that Donaldson touched the bottom of a male student during school hours on February 3.
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
PUBlIC Prosecutions
Director Cordell Frazier defended her department’s sentencing recommendation in a controversial child molestation case, stressing that prosecutors are bound by the law and legal principles, which require them to consider sentencing
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
HOUSING Minister
Keith Bell admitted yesterday that foreign buyers are driving up property values, making it harder for Bahamians to afford homes. However, he stopped short of saying whether the government would
take action, noting that the country must seriously consider the impact of the Immovable Property Act’s repeal in the 1990s, which made it easier for foreigners to buy land.
Mr Bell said in affluent areas, a property valued at $100,000 might attract interest from foreign
guidelines, a mandatory one-third reduction for early guilty pleas, and a defendant’s lack of prior convictions when making recommendations to the court. Her comments to The Tribune followed public backlash from activists and religious leaders who said
bill Tabled T haT would proT ec T whis T leblowers from re TaliaT ion
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter
lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
THE Davis administration tabled a bill in the House of Assembly to protect people who report unlawful or unethical activities within public and private organisations while also imposing severe penalties for anyone found obstructing the reporting process or engaging in misconduct. Good governance advocates have long called for such legislation. The Protected Disclosures Bill 2025 would protect whistleblowers against retaliation and provide a clear mechanism for investigating alleged wrongdoing. The bill sets out detailed provisions on who may make a disclosure, how disclosures should
A communicAtion satellite is launched into space in 2018 from the Kennedy Space Center on board a Falcon 9 rocket from SpaceX. Inset right Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism and Aviation Chester Cooper.
housing Minister Keith Bell. Photo: chappell Whyms Jr
puBLic Prosecutions Director Cordell Frazier.
Eleuthera students showcasing their talents
StudentS from the Samuel G Pinder All Age School showcase their talent, in the e Clement Bethel national Arts Festival eleuthera Adjudications, at the Spanish Wells Methodist Church, on February 11, 2025. Among the dozen performances at the event were first-time entrant Savannah Francois singing “I Have nothing”; returning vocalist Aurora Knowles singing “Hero”; piano performances by Wes and Blaine underwood and Sadie Pinder; drama from Ava Charles and damian Russell; and group performances, including by the students who comprised theSpanish Wells Pop Band and the SGPAA Concert Band.
Photos: Eric Rose/BIS
AuRoRA Knowles singing “Hero”.
SAdiE Pinder performing a piece on the piano.
SAvAnnAh Francois singing “I Have Nothing”.
All systems go
conducting operations in The Bahamas. His comments came in response to concerns that repeated rocket landings could harm marine life and that partnering with SpaceX contradicts the government’s push for international climate change funding.
He maintained that The Bahamas is taking “measurable precautions” to safeguard its waters and marine ecosystems by working with environmental experts to monitor potential impacts. He also touted The Bahamas’ proximity to Florida, stable weather, and open waters as ideal conditions for SpaceX operations.
The government has approved up to 20 landings this year, though each one is subject to regulatory approvals. Mr Cooper said every launch requires a licence from the Civil Aviation Authority of The Bahamas (CAAB), and officials will be notified before each landing.
He also noted that Bahamian regulations allow for charges of up to $100,000 per landing, though he did not confirm whether SpaceX is paying this amount.
Dr Rhianna NeelyMurphy, director of the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, revealed that her department was officially notified of the proposed re-entry last year and has been engaged in six to eight months of environmental assessments to mitigate potential harm.
SpaceX was required to hire a Bahamian environmental consultant to conduct impact studies. The consulting team, alongside government officials, has been monitoring marine, terrestrial, and avian ecosystems in the area, with findings being continuously updated.
She confirmed that officials have received several environmental reports detailing timelines, methodologies, and assessments, which are continuously updated as circumstances change.
Starting this week, teams will deploy to Cat Island, Exuma, and Eleuthera to install monitoring equipment ahead of the February 18 landing.
Environmental monitoring will continue both during and after the event, with samples collected to assess any potential impact.
The Falcon 9 booster is expected to return to Bahamian waters carrying between 250 and 350 gallons
of jet fuel, along with nitrogen and oxygen.
Officials say contingency plans are in place in case of a mishap.
“If there is a mishap — God forbid something happens — we will be working with 250 to 350 gallons of fuel, depending on the weather conditions that day,” Dr Neely-Murphy said. “We will have appropriate vessels in the area, ready to respond.”
She added that the drone ship will land on a tugboat in waters more than 3,000 feet deep and will be guided by GPS. She emphasised that the process is fully automated, meaning no crew members will be on board to manually direct the landing.
Kiko Dontchev, SpaceX’s vice president of launch, assured that safety and reliability remain the company’s top priorities.
“While we’re excited to execute this mission, we won’t fly until we’re ready,” he said. “I’m hopeful that it’s on the 18th, but if we have any concerns about a successful landing, we will stand down and reset for the next available opportunity.”
SpaceX has successfully completed nearly 408 booster landings, alternating between land and drone ships at sea. The company now launches rockets approximately every two days.
The rocket’s fairings, which protect the payload during launch, will descend into the ocean under parachutes and be recovered by a support vessel.
Dr Neely-Murphy explained that within a tennautical-mile radius of the landing site, the impact will produce a noise similar to two gunshots.
Ships stationed 17 nautical miles away will hear what she described as “two claps of thunder”, with the sound diminishing further over distance.
Royal Bahamas Defence Force Commodore Raymond King confirmed that a five to 10-nautical-mile safety perimeter will be enforced around the landing site, with the RBDF managing traffic and security control.
Meanwhile, Mr Cooper announced that SpaceX has committed to a longterm partnership with The Bahamas, which includes establishing a space-themed exhibit in the country and donating $1m to the University of The Bahamas.
A SpAceX Falcon 9 rocket landing successfully back on Earth after delivering dozens of satellites to polar orbit - a tracking camera at the launchpad captures the rocket’s flawless touchdown.
Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper speaks during a press conference announcing more details concerning the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 booster rocket landing in Bahamian waters.
Photos: Nikia charlton
MiNiStry of touriSM ActiNg perMANeNt SecretAry LiSA ADDerLey ANDerSoN
uS chArge D AffAireS kiMberLy furNiSh
Bill tabled that would protect whistleblowers from retaliation
be made, the roles and responsibilities of the designated authority, and the various protections and penalties that apply to whistleblowers and others involved in the process.
The bill empowers the minister to designate an authority to oversee the implementation and compliance with the Act. This authority, referred to as the designated authority, is responsible for monitoring disclosures and ensuring that investigations are carried out effectively.
The designated authority is granted various powers, including making recommendations to the minister, investigating disclosures, authorising law enforcement involvement if necessary, and conducting hearings related to disclosures. The authority is intended to be independent and not subject to external control, ensuring its decisions are based solely on the law and facts presented in each case. It also has the discretion to regulate its procedure when investigating a disclosure.
In addition, the designated authority is required to publish guidelines for making and investigating disclosures. These guidelines help ensure that employees, employers, and the public understand their rights and responsibilities under the Act. The authority is also tasked with promoting awareness through public education campaigns.
The bill outlines the procedure for making disclosures, with employees required to submit written reports to the designated authority, including relevant information as specified in the bill’s schedule. Disclosures must be made in good faith, and the employee must reasonably believe the information disclosed is accurate and reveals wrongdoing.
Disclosures related to national security or matters that could affect the country’s defence and international relations are handled with additional care. In such cases, the designated authority is required to notify the prime minister and the minister
responsible for national security while conducting the investigation.
A disclosure qualifies for protection under the Act if it is made in accordance with the outlined procedures, based on reasonable belief, and shows that wrongdoing has occurred or is ongoing. Additionally, the bill excludes any disclosures based on legal advice from qualifying for protection.
Upon receiving a disclosure, the designated authority evaluates whether the allegation warrants an investigation. If the authority determines that an investigation is necessary, it can request information from the employer and the employee disclosing it. This may include reports, documents, and other relevant materials.
The designated authority can conduct investigations through hearings, where witnesses can be summoned and evidence examined. Should the designated authority find a hearing necessary, it may engage an investigator or law enforcement officer to investigate
the allegations further.
A report with findings and recommendations is submitted to the minister after completing the investigation.
However, the designated authority may refuse to investigate or cease an investigation if it finds the disclosure defamatory, frivolous, or vexatious or if its circumstances have changed. In such cases, the authority is required to inform the person disclosing within 14 days of the decision.
One key objective of the bill is to protect employees who make disclosures from retaliation. It specifically prohibits employers from subjecting employees to occupational detriment, such as dismissal, demotion, or any other unfair treatment, as a result of making a protected disclosure. Employees who suffer such detriment are entitled to seek redress under the Employment Act as if they had been unfairly dismissed.
Furthermore, the bill ensures that the identity of the person making a protected disclosure remains confidential
during the investigation process. It also provides immunity from civil, criminal, or disciplinary proceedings for individuals who make or deal with protected disclosures as long as they act in good faith and follow the required procedures. The bill includes several offences, with penalties to ensure compliance and protect the disclosure process’s integrity. For instance, anyone who prevents, restrains, or restricts an employee from making a protected disclosure, intimidates or retaliates against an employee who has made a protected disclosure, or induces another person to contravene the provisions of the Act through threats, promises, or other means, will be committing an offence. This also includes employers subjecting an employee to an occupational detriment as a result of a protected disclosure. The penalties for these offences include a fine not exceeding $10,000 or, imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or both.
Additionally, any person who fails to
comply with a lawful request made by the designated authority during its duties will be committing an offence. The penalty for this offence is a fine not exceeding $15,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 years, or both.
The designated authority must prepare an annual report detailing its performance and the outcomes of its investigations. This report must be submitted to the minister and laid before Parliament, ensuring public accountability. The report must include statistical information on the disclosures received, the recommendations made, and the steps employers take to address identified wrongdoing.
The bill also provides for financial oversight of the designated authority’s operations. The authority must submit estimates for its revenue and expenditure, which are then included in the national budget. Its accounts are to be audited annually, and the results of these audits must be included in the authority’s annual report.
Cooper: Pintard ignored multiple invitations to discuss tourism
By JADE RUSSELL
Staff Reporter
TOURISM Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper said FNM leader Michael Pintard ignored multiple invitations to meet with tourism officials to discuss the industry’s economic impact despite publicly questioning the country’s ability to increase stopover visitors.
Mr Cooper’s comments came after Mr Pintard told reporters that while he welcomes last year’s rise in cruise visitors, he is concerned that stopover arrivals — particularly from Florida — have remained stagnant. He said he had previously urged Mr Cooper to implement a strategic plan to increase these numbers.
Mr Cooper dismissed Mr Pintard’s remarks as “political nonsense” and
“mischief.” He said he had invited Mr Pintard to meet with tourism officials on multiple occasions to gain a deeper understanding of the industry.
“The invitation remains open to him,” he said on the sidelines of a SpaceX press conference.
“I suspect he feels that if he gets a full understanding, it might remove some of the urge to be politically mischievous, and no doubt he thinks that that’s his role in opposition.”
Mr Cooper has said that increasing stopover arrivals requires more hotel room capacity, particularly in the Family Islands, where limited accommodations remain challenging.
“Maybe the leader of the Opposition can go and invest in some hotels and encourage others, if he wishes to be helpful,” he said.
He said government is
working to boost stopover arrivals, but wants Bahamians to understand what is needed for sustained growth. He highlighted an initiative to add 15,000 new hotel rooms over the next decade to double the country’s accommodations.
On February 5, Mr Cooper announced 2024 tourism figures, revealing that more than 11 million air and sea visitors came to The Bahamas — a 16.2 percent increase from 9.7m in 2023. Of the 11.22m total visitors, foreign air arrivals exceeded 1.72 million, matching 2023 figures and surpassing 2019 levels by 3.3 percent. December was the strongest month, with 1.15m visitors — 14 percent higher than in 2023 and 62 percent above 2019.
For stopover visitors, Mr Cooper estimated an average spend of $2,800 per guest. He also noted an
increase in average daily hotel rates, an indicator of stopover spending. Stopover guests typically stay for six to seven days.
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,” he said.
TOURISM Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper said FNM leader Michael Pintard ignored multiple invitations to meet with tourism officials to discuss the industry’s economic impact despite publicly questioning the country’s ability to increase stopover visitors.
GOveRnOR General Dame Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt received Tellis A Bethel, former Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, in a courtesy call where he presented her with
drawing room of Government House yesterday.
Photos: Letisha Henderson/ BIS
Frazier: Sex crime was ‘heinous’ but prosecutors bound by laws
the five-year prison sentence given to a father who had molested his twin four-year-old daughters was too lenient.
Prime Minister Philip Davis also said he believed the offence warranted a life sentence, though National Security Minister Wayne Munroe told reporters that Mr Davis mistakenly believed the case was about incest when he commented publicly on the issue.
Under the Sexual Offences Act, a person convicted of indecent assault faces a maximum of eight years if tried on information and three years if tried summarily.
While the man’s defence attorney had recommended a four-year sentence — an outcome with which the prosecution agreed — the judge ultimately rejected the suggestion and imposed a five-year term.
Despite the slightly harsher penalty, advocacy groups widely condemned the sentence, arguing it sent the wrong message about the gravity of such crimes.
House Chaplain Bishop Valentino Williams echoed these criticism asserting that the convict should have received harsher punishment.
Ms Frazier acknowledged that the convict’s actions were “heinous and
a total breach of trust”. She said defendants who plead guilty early are entitled to a one-third reduction in sentencing under the law. She also cited other mitigating factors, including the convict’s lack of prior criminal history and his expression of remorse.
“We,” she said, “treat every sexual assault case with due urgency and seriousness; hence, one would note that this matter was expedited. The events of this case occurred in July 2024. We recommended four years in accordance with established legal precedents, but ultimately, the court has the authority to impose a higher sentence.”
She added that the prosecution’s recommendation was based on the Court of Appeal’s ruling in the incest and indecent assault case of Steve Bain, when a three-year sentence was upheld after trial.
“We renew our commitment to upholding the rule of law and defending victims of all crimes, especially those against children,” she said.
She also explained why the father was not charged with incest, noting that penetration did not occur.
“The characterisation of the offence as molestation can reasonably lead to the inference that sexual intercourse occurred. That did not happen,” she said.
Teacher accused of indecent assault of 15-year-old boy
Donaldson pleaded not guilty to the charge. His bail was set at $5,000, with one or two sureties. Under the terms of his bail, he must check in at the Grove Police Station every Sunday by 7pm. He
was warned that interfering with witnesses could result in his bail being revoked. His trial is scheduled to begin on March 20.
PUBLIC Prosecutions Director Cordell Frazier defended her department’s sentencing recommendation in a controversial child molestation case, stressing that prosecutors are bound by the law and legal principles, which require them to consider sentencing guidelines, a mandatory one-third reduction for early guilty pleas, and a defendant’s lack of prior convictions when making recommendations to the court.
The Tribune Limited
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“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914
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LEON E. H. DUPUCH
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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972
Contributing Editor 1972-1991
RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
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SpaceX deal brings excitement and many questions
SPACEX is planning to land as many as 20 of its Falcon 9 booster rockets in The Bahamas this year – and yet there remain plenty of questions despite yesterday’s press conference.
The government insisted that safeguards are in place to protect the environment from the effects of the landings – although the hard details of that were not clear.
We are told that environmental experts are going to monitor potential impacts – and that there have been months of assessments to mitigate potential harm.
Impact studies were conducted –although were not released yesterday, which might have helped clarify what the potential impacts might be.
We were told that the booster is expected to return with between 250 and 350 gallons of jet fuel, along with nitrogen and oxygen, and that appropriate vessels will be in the area to respond in case anything goes wrong. As the director of the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection noted, “God forbid something happens”.
Each landing will need its own licence – but they will be coming at quite a pace. Twenty launches this year means a rocket flying every other week, more or less. It will be a rocket summer, autumn and winter ahead.
And while environmental questions remain unsatisfied, there are also questions of a financial nature about the event.
Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper acknowledged that regulations allow a charge of up to $100,000 for each landing, he did not confirm if those charges would actually be made.
Even if that was the case, 20 landings would only bring in $2m, which given the deployment of ships for response and
protection seems like it would not go very far at all.
Indeed, Mr Cooper seemed more keen to play up the tourism aspects of the landings, talking of astro tourism and its projected benefits to the planet in the future, essentially staking out a claim for The Bahamas to get its share of the market.
We do know that $1m will be apparently donated to the University of The Bahamas, and there are plans for a spacethemed exhibit in The Bahamas.
Technologically, the landings are incredibly impressive. The sight of the rockets landing in their cradles is remarkable – and The Bahamas being the backdrop will certainly bring eyes to our nation through social media.
Turning those eyes into visits, and turning these landings from borrowing The Bahamas for parking into space tourism is what the government will be hoping for.
The first landing will be a platform, the ongoing landings the bigger project.
There is nothing wrong in Bahamians being cautious about the landings, and wanting more information to make sure that we are not harming our environment in the process of benefitting an international company’s project.
To that end, releasing the impact studies would be a good start. Indeed, given the scientific interest in this project overall, documenting all scientific aspects of it could be part of the attraction. After all, if we are going to monitor these effects, sharing them would be useful for future scientific endeavours.
So start there, please, and follow up with the outcome of the further investigations. Then if all is well, we can be confident in welcoming the stars to our doorstep.
Danger of smart phone addiction
EDITOR, The Tribune.
HAS your time on the phone or with other electronic devises taken over your life? Are you addicted to your smart phone? Going to bed, the bathroom and lunches-dinners with your phone?
you can go to some online apps that will show you just how much time you spend on these devices. Smart phone addiction is known as “nomophobia, simply the fear to be without your phone. Overuse of the internet is a real addiction disorder. Checking and rechecking your electronic devises, like your breathing fresh air may show you have a technological addiction, and does not matter what your age, sex or race maybe, technology can and has acquired your attention greatly. What can you do to deal with this problem? First recognise you indeed have a problem. Then you can follow a few of these suggestions:
a) Turn off your alerts. you can ignore your phone if it is not alerting you every other minute. If you cannot miss any alerts no matter
how long you wait pass the phone onto a trusted partner who can take a message for you. Setting your phone into a mode that only alerts you of super important messages is key.
b) Put a rubber band onto the devise, there to remind you of your problem, and the need to plan personal time from technology.
c) Instead of using the phone as an alarm clock, which could lead you into multi tasking in the middle of the night, buy a single use alarm clock.
d) Go cold turkey by staying off for set periods of time.
e) Plan for tech-free time. Two-three days at a time perhaps. Set rules stating no tech allowed when eating, sleeping and playing about. Plan some off line fun time. Encourage others to do the same.
f) Create no phone or tech zones within your home, workplace and community and do not disturb anyone who is participating in tech-free time.
g) Get rid of apps. They keep an eye upon you, alert you with promotion upon promotion (Big Brothers watching you). A silenced
Women’s rights still far to go
EDITOR, The Tribune. EqUAlITy Bahamas has hosted its annual flagship event, the International Women’s Day March + Expo since 2017, bringing women, girls, and community members together for a day of activism, solidarity, and recreation. It is the only event of its kind with its explicit rooting in feminist activism, advocacy to end gender-based violence, and community needs.
We call on the government, corporate Bahamas, nongovernmental organizations, faith-based organisations, and members of the public to respect International Women’s Day as a catalyst to increase and deepen meaningful engagement—including education and substantive change— with regard to the rights of women rather than co-opting women’s and feminist movements, donning purple, and hosting in one-time events, disconnected from the political necessity of it, in service to capitalism and their own agendas.
electronic devise is a money saving devise.
h) Manage all your expectations. Message expectations that can and do lead people to spend their money, waist their precious time. Even those who must have their phones on at all times can let the Boss know that there is business time and personal time. Don’t let one impose itself upon the other.
The common adage claiming that technology is a tool that will make your life easier and better, is a fool’s expectation and a tech sales persons promotional dream. Technology, like all other things can take your life over, transform and manipulate it and not benefit you.
High technology is the pusher man I am speaking of here. And you know what they said in the earlier part of this century right?
“God damn the pusher man, he cares not for you, just wants to take your revenue”. Good luck.
STEVEN KASZAB Bradford, Ontario February 10, 2025.
Director of Equality Bahamas Alicia Wallace said: “There is significant work to be done to create a safe, healthy environment for women, girls, and all residents. It requires longterm, consistent investment, support of organisations undertaking this work full time, and the building of political will.” She added,
“International Women’s Day is not an invitation for competition, distraction, or posturing. The change we need requires not only passion, but dedication to building capacity and working in service to women and girls in all of our diversity.”
Equality Bahamas invites the public to take to the streets on Saturday, March 8, starting at Eastern Parade, to call for specific and sustained action to end gender-based violence including legal reform and implementation of feminist policy to guarantee gender-equal nationality rights, deliver comprehensive sexuality education in all schools, provide sufficient paid parental leave, criminalize marital rape, and decriminalize abortion.
To join the International Women’s Day March, meet at 8.45am at Eastern Parade—on East Bay street near the St. Matthew’s cemetery—to choose a sign and march to The Dundas Center for the Performing Arts on Mackey Street where the Expo will officially open. The International Women’s Day Expo features a wide range of nongovernmental organizations—including Bahamas Crisis Center, The Dignified
Girl Project, Families of All Murder Victims, and The Bahamas National Reparations Committee—and free workshops and activities including Zumba, yoga, self-defence training, poetry writing, and block printing.
“Our International Women’s Day March + Expo is decidedly political,” said director of Equality Bahamas Alicia Wallace. “It is inextricably linked to the issues we work to address year-round. Our demands are clear and will be delivered on the march through our protest signs and chants, echoing our long-term advocacy.”
In its first year hosting the event, Equality Bahamas was intentional in organising it so that there is space for rage on the road and joy at the end point. Ms Wallace said: “The space we create at the Expo, through the generous support of The Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts, is a model of the feminist futures we are cocreating every day through advocacy, public education, and community engagement. It is feminist in design, family-friendly in execution, fun for all participants, and entirely free to the public.” Visit equalitybahamas.com and follow @equality242 on Facebook and Instagram for more information.
EQUALITY BAHAMAS February 9, 2025.
PAULA MINNS Nassau, February 11, 2025.
Neal, a Bichon FrisË, and its handler compete in the best in show competition during the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog show, on Tuesday in New York.
Photo: Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP
Breast cancer continues to be diagnosed too late
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
BREAST cancer con-
tinues to be diagnosed at late stages in the northern Bahamas, with most cases detected at stage three on average, according to Nikeia Watson, founder of the Mammogram Access Programme (MAP).
Highlighting the urgent need for increased screening, Ms Watson said MAP has set a goal to screen 500 women this year. However, she acknowledged that reaching this target remains a challenge, with only one mammography machine in Grand Bahama.
“There is only one machine in service; it’s privately owned, and a recent survey conducted by MAP revealed that the number one challenge women face in accessing screening is cost,” Ms Watson said.
She further stressed the need for proactive measures, especially for older women.
“Cancer risk increases with age, yet in the absence of government-funded screenings, most pensioners do not have the means to get screened privately,” she added. “We believe that by focusing on breast health management and proactive screenings, we can detect cancer and other ailments that impact the breast.”
To raise awareness about early detection, MAP held a recent event recognising World Cancer Day on February 4 at the Pelican Bay Resort under the theme “United by Unique.”
Ann Marie Davis, spouse of Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, reinforced
the importance of early detection in the fight against cancer.
She commended Nikeia Watson and MAP for their efforts in increasing mammogram accessibility for women in the northern Bahamas, regardless of socio-economic status, geographical location, or background.
Jarol Investment Ltd made a $10,000 contribution to the organisation to help with their screening initiative.
MAP has launched a new screening initiative called a 38-mile journey, where each mile symbolises hope, progress, and access to critical healthcare. As part of the initiative, MAP inducted five new breast health educators, known as “Lemonistas,” to help spread awareness and encourage women to prioritise their health.
Samantha Colton, Vice Chairman of MAP, underscored the importance of breast health education.
“The Know Your Lemons Foundation has become a global leader in innovative breast health education, using its memorable 12 signs of breast cancer lemon,” he said. “Through partnerships like these, MAP has continued to bridge critical gaps in healthcare access for underserved communities by providing educational resources, outreach programmes, and advocacy efforts.”
As MAP continues to expand its reach, the program remains committed to improving breast health outcomes through education, awareness, and accessible screenings for all women throughout The Bahamas.
Man accused of murder in Meadow Street fatal stabbing
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was remanded into custody yesterday after being accused of fatally stabbing someone on Meadow Street last week.
Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans arraigned 20-year-old Javalo Brice on a murder charge. Prosecutors allege that, following a verbal altercation, Brice fatally stabbed 61-year-old Falcon Clarke in the upper back with a knife on the night of February 2. Clarke was pronounced dead at the scene. The defendant was not required to enter a plea. He was informed that his
$1,000
case would proceed to the Supreme Court via a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI) and was advised of his right to apply for bail before the higher court.
Brice will be remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until his VBI is served on May 12.
K Melvin Munroe represented the accused.
fine for not controlling dangerous dog
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was fined $1,000 after admitting that he allowed his dogs to bite a woman on Love Beach in December.
Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt Evans arraigned George Fox on two counts of failing to control a dangerous dog or other animals.
Fox reportedly allowed his Rottweiler and potcake
dogs to roam free in the West Bay Street area, causing Miriam Castro and Sarah Moore distress on December 19, 2024. One woman claimed she was bitten by one of the dogs. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge, and Magistrate Evans granted him a conditional discharge. Fox was ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and to compensate Ms Castro $5,000, payable in monthly instalments of $1,000. Failure to comply with these
conditions could result in a six-month prison term.
When asked about the return of his dogs, Magistrate Evans instructed Fox to secure the breached barriers on his property to ensure that the animals were properly contained. She added that the Bahamas Humane Society would visit the property and report back to the court.
Fox is scheduled to return to court on June 26 to provide proof of payment.
How greed overtakes the greater good
We are again witnessing how the greed and lust for power of the few outstrips the greater good in the United States, which has among the highest levels of economic inequality among developed Western states.
The new gilded and gluttonous age, reminiscent of the 19th century, appears to be one of the worst periods of such avarice and authoritarianism in American history.
Commercial and political interests are enmeshed between Donald Trump and his hi-tech backers like elon Musk and others, who are operating the US government to wield unprecedented global economic and political power.
Similar to Dwight eisenhower’s warning of the military industrial complex, Joe Biden, in his farewell address, warned of the techindustrial complex and the dangers posed to democracy and economic freedom globally.
Here at home, the incestuous relationship between certain business and political interests also pose a threat to democratic well-being, and more equitable, inclusive, and broadscale national development.
It remains a festering wound and tragedy that a Perry Christie-led government legalised a private lottery further enriching a few, instead of a public lottery benefitting the mass of Bahamians.
It was sadly reminiscent of the Bahamas Airways tragedy of the late 1960s. It is important to remember such history, because it affords us lessons through which to grapple with contemporary events.
How in good conscience could a self-proclaimed progressive Bahamian government legalise a lottery system in which many millions are endlessly transferred from poorer and struggling middle class Bahamians into the already overflowing coffers of the very wealthy?
In the lead-up to the gambling vote, Mr Christie promised that he would abide by the will of the people. Certain numbers barons promised they would close shop following a no vote. Christie’s word was no better than these numbers men.
At the time, in yet another infamous performance art farce, Mr. Christie proclaimed he might be forced to regularise the numbers trade because the country was in dire need of funds that might be derived from gambling.
Watch the sleight of bogus argument similar to a Threecard Monte trick in which the trickster attempts to
distract the mark in order for the confidence game to succeed.
Here was the game: Of the mega millions involved in the numbers trade, the numbers bosses legally
grabbed the lion’s share of the money with the government deriving considerably less in taxes. We have seen this sleight of hand and effluvia before.
In 1968, a newly minted PLP administration led by Sir Lynden Pindling was offered a near unimaginable opportunity for the new majority rule government.
The inspiration was to turn Bahamas Airways, our fledgling national airline, into a significant international carrier flying routes throughout the US including New York City and parts of Latin America.
Sir Arthur Foulkes was Minister of Communications which included responsibility for Civil Aviation. He vividly recalls the events that unfolded.
An agreement was negotiated in which Bahamas Airways was to be a part of a consortium partnering with the Swire Group, the Bank of Hong Kong and Cathay Pacific airline. Cathay Pacific remains a global player in terms of passengers and international cargo. It enjoys significant market capitalisation.
To understand the double-dealing to come, it is important to remember that it was Sir Lynden who invited the Swire Group to The Bahamas.
For a small archipelagic colony with enormous developmental challenges and nearing independence, such a consortium could prove lucrative and pivotal as The Bahamas needed considerably more airlift to boost the tourism sector as a platform for national development.
Cathay Pacific was to provide managerial and technical expertise. There were dazzling plans for inflight service showcasing the culture and beauty of The Bahamas, from the uniforms of stewardesses to interior cabin design to meals.
New jets were acquired and on the ground at New Providence ready to fly to cities in the US.
Then the greed and the double-dealing of Sir Lynden dashed hopes and destroyed one of the brightest possibilities ever for Bahamas tourism and air services. It remains a national tragedy of the highest order, along the lines of redistributing massive wealth from the Bahamian people to gambling houses.
Warren Levarity subsequently became Minister of Communications. Without his knowledge or consent the Air Transport Licensing
Authority, under the Chairmanship of Bruce Brennen, issued certain routes to the Premier’s chum everette Bannister and his proposed Bahamas World Airways, routes already granted exclusively to the Bahamas Airways consortium.
Undoubtedly, Brennen granted the routes to Bannister and what many scoffingly referred to as his “paper airline” on Sir Lynden’s instructions.
In a spectacular breach of faith Sir Lynden deceived his own colleagues, international investors, and the Bahamian people. Subsequently, many international investors became wary of The Bahamas and Sir Lynden’s government.
The Swire Group asked Sir Lynden to honour the prior deal and revoke the routes given to Bannister or assume responsibility for Bahamas Airways. After his refusal, the group pulled out, the airplanes left, and Bahamian stewardesses were stranded in New York.
Bahamas Airways was effectively destroyed overnight.
Playing the pseudo nationalism card for which some are infamous, and which some continue to play today, Sir Lynden thumped that the consortium was “never a part of us”.
The cant and the deceit:
It was Sir Lynden who originally brought the group to The Bahamas. It was he who reneged on a deal that his government had agreed to. He was shifting attention from his double-cross and double-dealing.
Bannister’s airline was a flop, a promotional trip to Frankfurt its first and last, with rumours that the company never paid for the fuel for the flight.
What are the opportunity costs of the Bahamas Airways tragedy? They are enormous, reverberating over the decades.
We would have had the leading airline in the region, with Bahamians as shareholders in such a leading international carrier. The economic spinoffs would have been breathtaking.
We could today boast a thriving airline and employment for perhaps thousands of Bahamians at every level, generally free of political interference, and the gross incompetence and corruption that has often characterized Bahamasair.
From marketing to a range of auxiliary services, numerous small- to mediumsized Bahamian businesses employing many would have
developed.
We likely would have avoided the drain of approximately half a billion dollars from the Treasury to keep Bahamasair operational. Imagine what could have been done in terms of national development with half a billion dollars and counting!
At a luncheon in Hong Kong in 2010, former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham met the head of Cathay Pacific who noted that a number of older senior officials at the airline remembered the Pindling government’s betrayal of the arrangement. It seemed clear that they would never consider any proposal to return to The Bahamas.
Sir Lynden traded a better and more secure future for The Bahamas for greed and narrow interests. We have a similar disaster with a fully private national lottery.
Fifty after independence, following the Great Recession of 2008, Hurricane Dorian, and the COVID-19 pandemic, our great challenges include those of low growth, violent crime, persistent youth unemployment, climate change, growing inequality and a faltering middle class.
We need urgently to find a way to expand entrepreneurship and jobs, providing more poor Bahamians with a ladder into the middle class, while stabilizing a middle class besieged on numerous fronts.
A national lottery is not a panacea. Still, funds from such a public enterprise may play a significant role in helping to address our challenges, especially in education, health care, housing, and social services.
How can any party or group which purports to care so much about the poor and Bahamians in general be so callous, indifferent and smug, especially in light of the prior betrayal with Bahamas Airways? How can one seriously talk about inequality, while continuing to accept party and campaign donations from those who rake in hundreds of millions at the expense of the poor?
The gilded age is bubbling over with champagne and profits for the rich and powerful, while the poor are struggling for a daily meal. Meanwhile, in a diabolical fusing of tragedy and farce, in both America and The Bahamas, our political and business elites style themselves as committed Christians.
Greenlanders say ‘No’ as Trump eyes taking country
A liberAl friend, Helen, was wringing her hands in contemplation of some of the actions of Donald Trump as he completes his first month in office. “it’s worse that i even imagined,” she groaned.
She recited all the “disreputable” high-level appointments the president has offered to the Senate and to the country. She decried the revenge and retribution unleashed by Trump on his opponents and persecutors in the federal government.
Mentioning several of her acquaintances who hold powerful positions in the career government service, she told of friends being ushered from their offices, stunned and disgraced by “Nazi-like” operators serving Trump and his emboldened associates.
i understand that when a new president from a different political party assumes power in Washington – particularly when his party takes over control of the House and Senate at the same time –there are going to be a lot of changes. i get that,” she lamented. but this is so disruptive. it’s so scary. Where will it end?” She paused to catch her breath and try to regain her composure. “i’ve heard from friends all over the country. This isn’t just a feeling for people in and around Washington DC. it’s everywhere.”
There’s real panic in a lot of American households these days. There’s fear in some quarters, to be sure. but mostly it’s the overwhelming sense of uncertainty.
People are hoping that Trump actually knows what he is doing, that this administration is not going to somehow casually lead the country into chaos and disorganisation. They hope that the president, in unleashing a whirlwind, has the foresight and sense of duty to the nation not to let it get too out of hand.
What if some of the cruel knaves of right-wing nuttiness actually exercise predominant influence on this president? What, many are wondering, might then become of the country?
Helen is wondering.
“remember the creeps like Alex Jones, who made millions of dollars in decrying, denigrating and denying the reality of the senseless massacre of 20 elementary school children and their teachers at Sandy Hook school in Connecticut over a dozen years ago?
“What about Stuart
STATESIDE
with Charlie Harper
rhodes, the disgraceful founder in 2009 of an outlaw group called the Oath Keepers, who was convicted of seditious conspiracy in connection with his leading role in the armed assault on and invasion of the US Capitol building in January 2001?
And has now been pardoned by the president?
“What about that thoroughly misbegotten crowd of craven cronies, from Paul Manafort to Steve bannon, who are still trying to cash in on a misguided social movement to enrich themselves and/or pay long-standing personal debts?”
Helen sunk into her chair. She held her head in her hands, slumped in despair. There will be no happiness for her anytime soon.
Trump came into office announcing his intention to wrest mineral-rich and globally warming Greenland from its long-time foreign and defense policy dependence on Denmark. He rushed into the imposition of heavy tariffs on Canada and Mexico, seeking higher levels of cooperation from them on border security.
Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau and
Mexican president Claudia Scheinbaum quickly reacted to the tariff threat by giving Trump what he wanted: Mexico agreed to rapidly deploy 10,000 additional troops to its US border to help interdict migrant and drug (Chinese-made fentanyl in particular) smuggling, and Trudeau appointed a fentanyl ‘czar’ to oversee heightened border vigilance.
There is fine print to the agreements, but those commitments seem to be the basis for Trump agreeing to back off the 25% tariffs he had imposed on America’s two largest neighbors. He also imposed tariffs on China; this action was met with reciprocal action from beijing as an anticipated trade war between the world’s two largest national economies began with some early skirmishes.
The Tribune has reported elsewhere on the likely, deleterious effects of a lasting US-China trade war on the quality of life and cost of living here in The bahamas. but back to Canada, and then to Greenland.
Chrystia Freeland is now running for leader of the liberal Party in Canada,
and if she wins in the upcoming snap election after Trudeau resigned, she will become Canada’s second female prime minister.
Freeland is an accomplished journalist and author of several books including one on Ukraine. An MP from Toronto for a dozen years, she has served as minister of international trade, leading negotiations for the Trump-driven NAFTA successor trade agreement with the US and Mexico. She became minister of foreign affairs and then deputy prime minister and finance minister.
Freeland, in the midst of a presidential election campaign, used a lengthy column in the Washington Post to reply to Trump. Here are some rather inspiring excerpts: i have some news for the American advocates of Manifest Destiny 2.0.” (Manifest Destiny was the 19th Century doctrinal justification for the explosive westward expansion of America, spanning an era from the louisiana Purchase of 1803 to the Spanish-American War in 1898.)
Freeland continues: “We Canadians are glad to have you as neighbours. but we are going to stay proud
and independent. We share many of your qualities; we also enjoy a universal, single-payer health system, $10/day health care, gun control and abortion rights.
“Here’s the thing: Your (tariff and even annexation) threats won’t work. if you hit us, we will hit back. We are smaller than you, but the stakes are immeasurably higher for us. Do not doubt our resolve.”
Freeland concluded by quoting ronald regan, whom Trump purports to greatly admire. reagan said of Canada that “we’re more than friends and neighbours and allies; we’re kin. Together we have built the most productive relationship between any two countries in the world.”
The US border with Canada is over 5,500 miles long. it is by far the longest and longest undefended, border in the world. As Freeland points out in her open letter, it would be a very expensive mistake to mess that up. She also refers to Arctic exploration, global warming and the stunning economic potential of a frozen northern Canadian expanse that the US could cooperate in exploiting.
A similar message was delivered to the incoming US president by a cabinet minister in the government of Greenland, another North American land mass attracting the covetous eye of Trump and many of his advisers. This message was also in the form of an open letter in the Washington
Post.
Greenland is the world’s largest island and an autonomous Danish dependent territory with self-government and its own parliament.
Though a part of the continent of North America, Greenland has been politically and culturally associated with Norway and then Denmark since the 9th Century.
Denmark contributes two-thirds of Greenland’s budget revenue, the rest coming mainly from fishing. Potential oil, gas and rare earth mineral reserves have attracted interest from Trump and others.
Greenland has a population of just under 57,000 people, 90% of whom are indigenous inuit.
The US suffered more casualties in the Vietnam War than Greenland’s entire population.
imagine how Trump’s verbal bombshell, coupled with a quick visit to the island by Don Jr, stunned sleepy Greenland. Here are some of the remarks of its minister of business, trade, mineral resources, justice and gender equality:
“Greenland is a highly skilled and rules-based market economy, and our location is vital for regional maritime, aviation and space-based activities. We invite more American businesses to engage in the vast potential of our economy.
“At the moment, companies in Canada and britain each hold 23 mining licences in Greenland. The US holds one. i am sure this picture can change. There are existing and unknown investment possibilities. but we have a lack of capital, and mining is a slow business. The time frame from early exploration to mineral shipment averages 16 years. This situation requires longterm, relatively high-risk investment.”
The minister then quotes her prime minister. “Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland. We do not want to be part of the United States. We are not Danes. We are not Americans.”
One can imagine that the Canadians and Greenlanders are writing for their independent lives here.
The thought of a menacing colossus casting an eye on your mineral wealth with the possibility of annexation is pretty scary.
Maybe it’s just as well that we’re not loaded with precious mineral wealth in our ground.
Retired officer testifies in alleged police abuse case
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A RETIRED senior police officer testified yesterday about the events leading up to the arrest of one of the plaintiffs in an alleged police torture case, saying the plaintiff was a suspect in an armed robbery before his alleged mistreatment while in custody at the Governor’s Harbour Police Station in January 2018.
Retired Chief Superintendent of Police Steven Adderley, the former officer in charge of Eleuthera, said he had only recently been posted to the island when a robbery occurred at Tales Gas Station on January 18, 2018.
Under questioning from Fred Smith, KC, one of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, Mr Adderley agreed that the robbery was a major event for Eleuthera police and that all available officers were engaged in the investigation.
While he did not personally hear gunshots, he said he arrived at the scene within 15 to 20 minutes, as his home was nearby. He estimated that the location was about a mile and a half away and that he reached the scene at around 10.20 pm. Mr Adderley said officers were searching for three suspects concerning the robbery. Although he could not confirm whether the victim had been shot,
he said that the person had been struck by something and was bleeding.
At around 11pm, a four-door vehicle matching the description of the suspects’ car was found at an abandoned gas station near the water, approximately a 20-minute drive from the crime scene. Mr Adderley testified that the vehicle was running, with the front driver and passenger doors open. He also observed gloves inside the car on the passenger side and others scattered across the road.
Although he could not recall the exact number of gloves, he estimated there were more than ten or 12. He ordered that they be photographed and collected as evidence.
By 11.20pm, a scene-ofcrime officer had arrived. When asked by Mr Smith whether fingerprints were taken from the vehicle, Mr Adderley confirmed that they were, stating that no officer touched the car except to turn it off. However, he could not recall the name of the officer who performed the fingerprinting or when the vehicle was towed.
When asked how many officers were at the scene, Mr Adderley said there were initially three, including himself, but that three more arrived later.
The former officer said that police questioned residents in the area, as some had left their homes that night.
Mr Adderley testified that Kenton Fines, one of the three plaintiffs, was arrested around noon on January 19. He claimed that gloves were found near his home, close to a four-way intersection.
Mr Adderley disagreed with the suggestion that the discovery of the gloves was not a factor in why Mr Fines became a suspect. He said he suspected Mr Fines had firearms in his residence, which he described as a two-story abandoned building.
He also said that the home of another plaintiff, Dale Gibson Jr, was in the same general area.
When approaching Mr Fines’ residence, Mr Adderley said he was armed and had his weapon drawn as he neared the glass sliding door on the second floor. However, he could not recall if all officers on the scene were armed, though he estimated that one or two were. He also said that he was not wearing a bulletproof vest. When Mr Smith asked if he feared being shot that night, Mr Adderley said he was concerned for officers’ safety. He added that if gunfire had erupted, Mr Fines would have been the first to be shot due to the officers’ tactical positioning.
Mr Adderley recalled taking a tactical position and shining a flashlight into the residence before knocking on the door. He admitted that he did not
have a search warrant.
He said Mr Fines opened the door, and officers informed him that he was a suspect in an armed robbery before conducting a search of his home and placing him under arrest.
When Mr Smith asked if Mr Fines calmly let the officers inside, Mr Adderley responded that the officers had entered and that Mr Fines had said nothing.
Mr Smith suggested that officers rushed into the house without giving Mr Fines a chance to speak, but Mr Adderley disagreed.
He said that it was standard procedure to handcuff Mr Fines while officers conducted the search, during which only three officers were present. The home contained four rooms, but Mr Adderley said the living room appeared to be the only one in use. No firearm was found.
Mr Adderley could not recall if a weapon was later recovered.
Regarding Mr Fines’ condition at the time of his arrest, Mr Adderley said he was clothed but could not remember if he was wearing shoes or recall specific details of his attire. He described Mr Fines as a tall man, over 5 feet 11 inches, and said that he matched the description of the armed robbery suspect.
He claimed that Mr Fines remained in his line of sight from his arrest until they arrived at the police station. He also asserted that the plaintiff had sufficient space in the police vehicle and denied seeing an officer kick Mr Fines in the throat, as had been previously alleged.
Mr Fines had earlier testified that an officer kicked him in the throat to force
him to reveal his phone password.
Although Mr Adderley could not confirm the exact time of Mr Fines’ arrest, he initially estimated it was before 2am. However, upon reviewing the detention record, he acknowledged that Mr Fines was officially arrested at 2.10am and arrived at the Harbour Island Police Station at 3.35am.
He maintained that Mr Fines was informed of the reason for his arrest both at his home and at the station. He also said that Mr Fines refused to sign a police form.
While Mr Adderley was aware that Mr Gibson had also been arrested, he could not recall which station he was taken to.
He said he did not participate in Mr Fines’ police interview.
After this statement, Mr Smith suggested that Mr Adderley had “washed his hands” of Mr Fines once he arrived at the police station, but the former officer disagreed.
Mr Adderley also maintained that only two officers from New Providence assisted in the investigation, despite Mr Smith suggesting otherwise.
The former officer said that he had written a report on the incident but could not recall how long after the event he completed it. He said he was unaware that Mr Fines had requested documentation from the Attorney General’s Office regarding his arrest. He further said that the AG’s Office never contacted him and may not have been aware that he had a diary entry on the incident. He confirmed that the AG’s Office received his written
report but was unsure if other officers had submitted reports.
Mr Adderley also said he was unaware that Mr Fines had filed a complaint with the Police Complaints and Corruption Unit on January 26, 2018 — three days after his release — or that his home was searched again that Sunday.
Mr Fines had previously testified that police officers beat him, poured hot sauce into his eyes, and simulated drowning him in the station’s shower by placing cargo pants over his face under running water. He claimed he was held in custody for three days without charge and never received an apology for his alleged mistreatment.
Plaintiffs Chavette Strachan, Dale Gibson Jr, and Kenton Fines allege they were subjected to police abuse while being held between January 19 and 23, 2018, during an armed robbery investigation at C & AA Service Station in Palmetto Point, Eleuthera. That robbery resulted in the fatal shooting of employee Joel Stubbs.
During previous testimony in September 2021, Ms Strachan tearfully recounted that officers allegedly threatened her, saying she would “hang” herself if she didn’t provide the answers they wanted. She claimed she was kicked while handcuffed, suffocated with a plastic bag, and had hot sauce poured into her eyes.
Ms Strachan and Mr Gibson are represented by attorney Bjorn Ferguson, while Fred Smith, KC, represents Mr. Fines. Luana Ingraham represents the defendants. Justice Leron Klein is presiding over the case.
NIB: record hI gh arrears collected from del INqueN t employers IN 2022
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
THE National Insurance Board (NIB) collected over $650,000 in outstanding arrears from delinquent employers through prosecutions in 2022, an amount called “a record high”.
NIB, in its annual report tabled in the House of Assembly yesterday, said the funds were collected through its instalment agreements initiative, which allows employers to make partial monthly payments towards outstanding arrears while keeping up with current monthly contributions.
While the amount collected through the compliance initiative was down by 31.9 percent compared to 2021, $676,470.70 was recovered.
NIB said 709 prosecutions were carried out in 2022.
As of 2022, 12,488 employers were contributing to the fund, while the number of contributing self-employed persons stood at 8,566.
NIB said the number of claims received, awarded, and paid increased in 2022.
Overall claims were up by 6.5 percent compared to the previous year, driven by an increase in short-term and industrial benefits claims.
Long-term benefits claims, however, declined.
NIB said short-term benefits grew primarily due to a rise in sickness claims, while industrial benefits increased mainly due to higher medical care expenses.
Additionally, claims awarded for all three benefit types rose, with long-term benefits up by 24.5 percent and industrial benefits climbing by 31.1 percent.
NIB attributed this to a rise in retirement and survivor benefit claims, as well as the award of injury benefits and the corresponding award of medical benefits.
NIB said benefits expenditure grew by $26.m, or eight percent, from $327.5m in 2021 to $353m in 2022.
Short-term expenditure increased from $27.8m to $31.3m, largely due to higher unemployment benefit payments, while long-term expenditure rose from $282.6m to $301.6m, mainly due to retirement benefits.
The report also addressed
NIB’s net contribution income in 2022, which grew to $290.5m, a 12.7 percent increase from the previous year and surpassing the 2019 pre-pandemic benchmark of $287.1m.
“The upward trajectory owes its momentum not only to external economic rebounds but also to internal factors like the increase in the weekly wage ceiling from $710 to $740, the increase in the number of actively insured persons and diligent enforcement of compliance measures,” NIB added.
NIB said several islands, including Eleuthera, Long Island, and Crooked Island, saw improvements in contribution payments, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and pre-Hurricane Dorian figures.
It also noted that while Abaco’s contribution income surpassed the COVID-19 era figure of $3.5m, it remained below the pre-Dorian level of $10.2m. Meanwhile, NIB’s deficit declined slightly from $60.4m in 2021 to $57.1m in 2022, reducing total reserves to $1.4 billion.
Bell admits foreign buyers are driving property values higher
corporations looking to assemble a larger parcel of land. To secure the necessary individual properties, these buyers may be willing to pay significantly more — potentially doubling the price to $200,000.
He said once such transactions occur, property valuations in the surrounding area automatically increase, making it more difficult for the average Bahamian to afford homes. He said this trend has been particularly evident in eastern and western New Providence, as well as throughout the Family Islands. He referenced Harbour Island as an example, where home prices have surged into the millions, a phenomenon frequently showcased on real estate television programmes.
“We once had what is called the Immovable Properties Act and there are a number of persons and different schools of thought as to whether we ought to bring it back and the implications of having repealed that piece of legislation,” he said.
While Mr Bell did not announce changes or whether the Davis administration would review the matter, he said Crown Land would remain strictly reserved for Bahamians.
Mr Bell reiterated that more than 12000 homes are needed to meet housing demand in New Providence.
He highlighted a new 160home subdivision, Adastra 2, planned near Perpal Tract in the Chippingham area, adding to government-led developments such as Renaissance at Carmichael and Pinecrest.
He said the government is trying to ease the financial burden of homeownership through concessions, particularly on building materials and tax exemptions for first-time homeowners.
He said a Rent-to-Own programme, first launched in Abaco, will now expand to New Providence. The initiative allows Bahamians who do not immediately qualify for a mortgage to pay toward homeownership over a two-year period, using rental payments as a down payment.
The first Ingraham administration repealed the Immovable Property Act and replaced it with the International Persons Landholding Act, a move credited with revitalising the real estate sector and increasing foreign investment. However, critics argue that it fueled rising property prices, speculative landholding, and shifting development priorities, making homeownership increasingly unattainable for younger Bahamians.
He expanded on the government’s review of the Rent Control Act, citing concerns over unfair rental practices.
“You know, we have Bahamians who are renting homes and there’s no bathroom facilities, there are no kitchen facilities, but yet, rent is being collected for these facilities,” he said.
Mr Bell highlighted the challenges landlords face when trying to evict non-paying tenants while still being responsible for their mortgage payments. He noted that banks are unsympathetic to landlords in these situations, and even after issuing a notice for a tenant to vacate, the eviction process can be lengthy. Landlords must go through the courts, where tenants are often granted extended periods before being required to leave the property.
He emphasised the need for a balanced approach to rental laws, acknowledging the concerns of both landlords and tenants. He suggested that policymakers examine best practices from other jurisdictions, develop appropriate legislation, and hold consultations to address these challenges. The goal, he explained, is to create a legal framework that fairly protects landlords’ rights while ensuring that vulnerable tenants are not exploited.
Union making efforts to secure the dream of homeownership for its members
By KEILE CAMPBELL
Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
THE Bahamas Hotel
Catering and Allied Workers Union (BHCAWU) is advancing efforts to secure homeownership opportunities for its members, hosting a financial literacy and homeownership seminar as part of a broader housing initiative in western New Providence.
BHCAWU president Darrin Woods announced that the union is preparing to break ground on a housing development aimed at providing affordable homes exclusively for its members.
“We hope to break ground in western New Providence this month. We’re waiting on some government approvals,” Mr Woods said. “Once that is done, we’ll announce the groundbreaking.”
The housing programme is designed to help hotel workers secure homes without competing in the broader real estate market.
The union has acquired 8.9 acres of land for development and is working with private financiers to secure funding.
“Originay, there were 16 lots, but it looks like we’ll get about 10 from that,” Mr Woods said. “Additionally, we have 8.9 acres ready for development, and we’re partnering with private financiers to fund the project. Based on our estimates, we should be able to develop at least 25 lots.”
Mr Woods added that the union hopes to receive
government support, either through grants or land allocations, to expand the initiative.
“If we can partner with institutions like the National Workers Cooperative Credit Union to assist our members in securing homes, that’s what today is about,” he said.
To prepare members for the financial responsibilities of homeownership,
BHCAWU partnered with Stone Open Bahamas to host a seminar featuring real estate professionals, financial experts, and legal advisors. The event covered mortgage qualification, financial planning, legal requirements, alternative building materials, and the role of insurance in protecting investments.
Mr Woods emphasised the importance of financial preparedness, noting that homeownership is one of the most significant investments a worker can make.
Financial experts at the seminar advised members on securing mortgages, stressing that excessive debt can hinder loan approval. A legal professional also warned against home-buying pitfalls, urging attendees to seek independent legal advice rather than relying solely on a seller’s attorney.
The Tribune spoke to two union members at the seminar about the financial challenges hotel workers face when trying to qualify for mortgages.
One attendee noted that banking policies have
changed, making it easier for service workers to access home loans.
“A lot of hotel workers now get 260 [days of employment], but banks used to base approvals only on base pay, not tips,” the attendee said. “Now, tips are included, making it easier to qualify.”
Another attendee highlighted the importance of financial discipline in achieving homeownership.
Mr Woods said the current housing initiative
builds on the efforts of former BHCAWU President Patrick Bain, who launched a similar programme in 2003 that resulted in more than 100 homes for union members in western New Providence and Nassau Village.
The union plans to expand the initiative beyond its initial phase, continuing efforts to provide more direct homeownership opportunities for members in the future.
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.
Housing Minister KeitH Bell
BHCAWu president dArrin Woods
Housing Minister Keith Bell speaks during a Home Ownership Forum at Holy Trinity Activity Centre yesterday. Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
A new golden era for The Bahamas: Turning challenges into opportunities
By SeNATOR BARRy N GRiffi N , chairman of the Bahamas Trade Commission
THe Bahamas stands at a crossroads. The rising cost of living, global trade disruptions, and inflation have placed immense pressure on Bahamians. Food prices continue to soar, the cost of construction remains among the highest in the region, and affordability of goods and services are a growing
concern. our heavy reliance on imports and traditional economic models have left us vulnerable to external shocks. Yet, amid these difficulties lies an extraordinary opportunity: the chance to reshape our economy, pivot our thinking, and build a more resilient and prosperous future for The Bahamas. This goal has become a priority for the government.
Through The Bahamas Trade commission, the revolutionary program Affordable Bahamas aims to diversify supply chains, foster competition, and empower consumers with greater price transparency—ultimately making life more affordable for every Bahamian.
A time for bold action
The cost of living crisis is not unique to The Bahamas, but our small island nation feels its effects more acutely due to our over-reliance on imports from a single jurisdiction. rather than accepting these challenges as insurmountable, we see them as catalysts for transformation. This is a pivotal time in our history, where we are rethinking our economic strategy, diversifying our trade, and embracing competition and innovation. We have an opportunity to redefine our nation’s economic future, and these decisions we’re making today will shape the prosperity of generations to come.
The path forward: A new vision for The Bahamas
To thrive in a changing global economy, The Bahamas must become more adaptable, more competitive, and more selfsufficient. Here’s how we’re turning challenges into opportunities:
1. Diversifying our trade
For too long, we have relied almost exclusively on a single source for our imports. in an increasingly competitive world, we must actively seek new trade relationships with Latin America, Africa, the caribbean, and emerging markets in Asia. over the past three years, we have taken steps to strengthen these ties, engaging with regional and international partners to secure better access to goods at lower costs and to secure a wider
variety of high-quality products for Bahamians. Building these relationships has been critical to our long term plan. The Trade commission has been working to develop a sustainable trade model—one that reduces our vulnerability to external shocks and ensures long-term affordability. With this foundation in place, we are creating new opportunities for a more affordable and resilient Bahamas.
2. embracing innovation and local production
We must shift our mindset from being a consumer-driven economy to one that fosters innovation and production. From encouraging local agriculture and fisheries, to introducing light manufacturing and packaging, we must collectively, shift our focus to help reduce our reliance on imported goods and create new jobs here at home. our creative industry and professional services are viable exports. As a nation we have always thrived in services. With new technology, actively promoting Bahamian creatives and professional services to the world, is a no brainer.
3. Developing a more competitive economy competition drives better services, lower prices, and economic growth. The government is committed to creating policies that encourage entrepreneurial activity, support small businesses, and attract foreign investment in new industries. Through legislation this government will discourage anti-competitive practices and create a more fair playing field for all. This ultimately empowers the consumer. charting this new way of doing business will take the partnership of the private sector. companies are encouraged to leverage digital transformation
and e-commerce. With this, Bahamian businesses can better compete on a global stage and tap into international markets.
4. Prioritising agility and economic adaptability
The global economy is shifting rapidly, and we must be nimble enough to adapt. That means sensitising the private sector of the need to adapt quickly to a changing environment. it also means the government streamlining bureaucratic processes to make it easier to start and grow businesses in The Bahamas. As the government continues its ongoing digitisation of the government processes, we are moving in the right direction.
The opportunity before us
While challenges remain, The Bahamas is at a moment of great potential. The rise of remote work, digital commerce, and global connectivity presents an opportunity for us to position ourselves as a hub for business, technology, and innovation. As we act decisively, we are creating an economy that is more dynamic, more competitive, more inclusive and dare i say more affordable. now is not the time for fear or complacency. it is the time for bold leadership, creative solutions, and a commitment to a better future. This is not just a government only solution but the private sector and Bahamians everywhere must embrace change, rethink old models, and forge a new path that prioritises economic resilience and prosperity for all Bahamians.
The challenges we face today are not roadblocks; they are stepping stones to a stronger, more sustainable Bahamas. i’m more confident than ever that a new golden era for The Bahamas is at our doorstep.
US Coast Guard releases recording that appears to be audio of Titanic submersible implosion
PORTLAND Associated Press
A recording released by the federal government appears to include audio of the implosion of the experimental submersible that went missing on its way to the wreck of the Titanic.
A national oceanic and Atmospheric Administration passive acoustic recorder located about 900 miles (1,448 kilometers) away from the implosion site picked up the sound, U.S. coast guard officials said in a statement. The recording became public on Feb. 7.
The brief, staticky recording includes a loud noise that sounds somewhat like an underwater thunderclap. it then goes silent for its remaining few seconds.
The coast guard said in a statement that the audio clip “records the suspected acoustic signature of the
Titan submersible implosion” on June 18, 2023, the day the submersible went missing. The implosion of the Titan killed all five people on board and set off a coast guard investigation and international debate about the future of private deep-sea travel. The Titan vanished on its way to the wreck of the Titanic in the north Atlantic ocean, setting off a five-day search that ended with authorities telling the world that the vessel had been destroyed with no survivors.
concerns were raised after the implosion because of the Titan’s unconventional design and its creator’s refusal to submit to independent safety checks. oceangate, the Washington state-based company that owned the submersible, suspended operations in July 2023. Titan operator Stockton rush, who co-founded oceangate, was among
those who died in the implosion. The implosion also killed two members of a prominent Pakistani family, Shahzada dawood and his son Suleman dawood; British adventurer Hamish Harding; and Titanic expert Paul-Henri nargeolet. A coast guard panel performing a lengthy investigation into the submersible disaster heard two weeks of testimony last September. The testimony included dramatic moments, such as when a former oceangate scientific director said the Titan malfunctioned during a dive just a few days before its implosion. The coast guard is expected to release more information about the implosion in the future. A spokesperson for the agency said Wednesday the investigation is still ongoing and a final report will be released after it is completed.
Debris from the Titan submersible, recovered from the ocean floor near the wreck of the Titanic, is unloaded from the ship Horizon Arctic at the Canadian Coast Guard pier in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Wednesday, June 28, 2023.
Photo: Paul Daly/The Canadian Press/AP
sen barry Griffin
FEBRUARY 13, 2025
BAISS BEST-OF-3 BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Saints senior girls crowned champions
The Kingsway Academy (KWA) senior girls’ basketball team was the only team to claim the championship in their division with a 2-0 sweep against last year’s defending champions St John’s College (SJC) Giants yesterday at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium.
The Saints earned their second victory of the series with a decisive 35-12 win
over the Giants in the senior girls’ championship game.
While the Saints relished in championship glory, the Charles W Saunders Cougars junior girls, Queen’s College Comets senior boys and Giants junior boys all staved off elimination in their respective best-of-three championship series.
The Cougars slayed the Giants 41-39 in an overtime thriller in the junior girls’ championship matchup.
The Giants’ junior boys lived to fight another day
with a 41-35 victory over the Jordan Prince William (JPW) Falcons.
The Comets’ senior boys tied the series 1-1, after defeating the Giants 57-53 in game two of the series.
Senior Girls
The Saints got muchneeded revenge against the defending champions in a rematch of last year’s senior girls’ finals.
Kingsway Academy had the Giants’ number throughout the entire series thanks to impressive performances from junior national basketball team
member Andica Curtis.
She pitched in a game-high 19 points to emerge as not only the game’s top scorer but also the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the series.
Curtis spoke about how it felt to pull off the championship win. “I feel great. I feel like even though we could’ve done better as a team we did good and we’re champions,” she said.
The Saints took care of business from the opening tip. The team got ahead 13-2 by the 1:31 mark of the second quarter and led 15-4 at the intermission.
KWA steamed ahead 27-6 with 2:29 to go in the third. They managed to outscore the Giants 16-3 in the third period and the rest was history.
Curtis was also pleased to win the MVP honours.
“It is great. It is nothing I have never accomplished but I am still grateful and thankful for it.
“I appreciate our coach for all the work and effort he put into our team. We’re glad that we made it this far,” she said.
By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net
THE
The
“After further evaluation and consulting with his family and team physicians, Donnie Freeman is scheduled to have a procedure done next week that will
for the remainder of the season as he focuses on his recovery.
“While his presence on the court will be missed,
Donnie’s health and wellbeing are our top priority. We expect him to make a full return to basketball and will support him throughout his recovery process. Orange Nation wishes Donnie a speedy recovery. Go Orange!” the programme wrote in a statement. The Bahamian forward was a five-star recruit and is one of the highest-rated Syracuse signees since
By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter
BAHAMIAN pole vault national record holder
Brenden Vanderpool continues to carve out his own path in the pole vault event at Samford University.
He had a standout performance in the men’s pole vault event at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Vulcan Invite in Birmingham, Alabama, over the weekend to be named the Southern Conference (SoCon) Men’s Field Athlete of the Week. Vanderpool, who currently owns both the indoor and outdoor pole vault national records, cleared 5.53m (18’-01.75) for a firstplace finish in the event. His showing was not only a personal best performance but also the 10th best mark in the nation this season and just the second best distance for indoors in the programme’s history.
Additionally, the 19-year-old eclipsed his previous pole vault (indoors) national record of 5.45m, achieved at the 2024 Samford Open at the
HOUSTON (AP) — L.J. Cryer scored 14 points, Milos Uzan added 12 points and six assists, and No. 6 Houston beat Baylor 76-65 on Monday night for its third straight victory. Terrance Arceneaux had 11 points and J’Wan Roberts scored 10 for Houston (20-4, 12-1 Big 12). Emanuel Sharp also finished with 10 after missing two games with an ankle injury. The Cougars shot 51% and went 10 of 24 on 3-pointers. They reached 20 wins for the 10th consecutive season. Norchad Omier scored 19 points and Langston Love
SEE PAGE 17
CROWNED:
Kingsway Academy Saints senior girls are basketball champions
Lebronique Demeritte along with Zhyon Wilson scored four apiece for the Giants in the loss.
Junior Girls
The Cougars and SJC Giants needed an extra period of play to settle the score in the junior division.
The matchup was a battle of free throws at the end of regulation and in OT. The Giants looked like they were headed to a championship celebration when Dania Rolle hit a clutch jumper with less than 20 seconds on the game clock.
However, the Cougars were fouled and Raynique Tinker rattled in two free
throws to put her team within two (33-31).
CWS once again scored this time with Laila Lenard successfully driving to the bucket to tie the score at 33 and force OT.
Cougars assistant coach Edward Dean said it was their fight that won them the game. “It was just the fight in the ladies. They never gave up even when the chips were down. That’s the heart of a champion and they want to be champions so they have to fight like champions and that is what we are doing today,” he said. The Cougars outscored the Giants 8-6 in overtime. Tinker scored a team-high 15 points for the Cougars.
VJ EDGECOMBE SCORES 14 IN 76-65 LOSS TO HOUSTON
FROM PAGE 15
added 15 for Baylor (15-9, 7-6), which shot 58% — including 9 of 15 on 3s. VJ Edgecombe had 14 points and Robert Wright III finished with 10. Baylor lost its third straight road game and fell to 0-4 against ranked opponents in true road games this season.
Takeaways Baylor: The Bears missed an opportunity to add a marquee win and fell to 4-8 in Quad 1 games. Baylor’s lack of depth came into play as Houston outscored the Bears’ bench 24-1, and three starters played at least 35 minutes.
Houston: The Cougars improved to 5-3 in Quad 1 games and remained atop the Big 12 standings.
Key moment
Uzan hit a 3-pointer that sparked a 10-1 run and gave the Cougars a 26-16 lead with 7:53 remaining in the first half.
Houston’s lead never dipped below six the rest of the way.
Key stat
Houston, which entered forcing more than 14 turnovers per game and ranking in the top 10 nationally with a 5.2 turnover margin, forced Baylor into 15 turnovers and converted them into 28 points.
Junior Boys A massive third quarter surge was what the Giants needed to neutralise Alijah Pierre and the JPW Falcons in game two. After trailing 17-15 at halftime, the Giants came within one (24-23) in the third.
SJC’s Brando Thompson nailed a smooth floater to give the team the lead 26-23 and they never looked back. The team closed out the third period in charge 31-25. The Giants outscored the Falcons 26-18 the rest of the way to force a game three. Giants head coach Dastyn Baker was pleased with the team’s gritty game two win. “My guys followed the game plan. I
must give it to them. They played with a lot of heart tonight. Before the game we were in the locker room and they said they did not want their season to end and they came out, showed up and performed,” he said. He added that the strategy for game two will be to lock in on Pierre and force him to make mistakes on offence.
Deangelo Hinsey dropped a team-high 13 points for the Giants in the win. Pierre had a gamehigh 25 points for JPW in the loss.
Senior Boys
The Comets figured out a way to solve the Giants senior boys’ team last
night. The Giants were in the driver’s seat 31-25 at the halftime break before the Comets responded in the second half.
QC pulled within four (43-39) at the 6:24 mark of the fourth quarter. D Rolle hit a deep two that put QC on top 46-45 late in the final stretch.
With the score favouring QC 55-53, the team placed the final nail in the coffin with a go-ahead layup with just 6.5 seconds remaining in the game. T Higgs had a team-high 17 points for QC in the win.
The BAISS best-ofthree championship series continues 4pm today in the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium.
TATUM SCORES 32 POINTS TO HELP CELTICS BEAT SPURS
BOSTON (AP) — Jayson Tatum had 32 points and 14 rebounds and the Boston Celtics beat the San Antonio Spurs 116-103 last night for their third straight victory and seventh in eight games.
Kristaps Porzingis added 29 points for Boston and Derrick White had 19 points, nine assists and seven rebounds in the final game for both teams before the All-Star break.
De’Aaron Fox had 23 points in his fifth game with the Spurs since being traded by Sacramento. Victor Wembanyama added 17 points, 13 rebounds, four assists and two blocks.
MAGIC 102, HORNETS 86
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)
— Paolo Banchero had 24 points and eight rebounds and Orlando shook off a cold-shooting first half to beat Charlotte.
Franz Wagner added 16 points and seven rebounds and Anthony Black came off the bench to score 18 points.
Miles Bridges led the injury-plagued Hornets
DONNIE FREEMAN OUT FOR SEASON
FROM PAGE 15
retired National Basketball Association (NBA) star Carmelo Anthony. He showed some promise in the 14 games played for Syracuse to start the season. He averaged 13.4 points per game (ppg), 7.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 25.4 minutes per game.
He was quite efficient when on the floor, shooting 50.4 per cent in 14 outings. The 6-foot-9 forward had two of his best performances of the season against the Albany Great Danes in December and Cornell Big Red late in November last year.
Freeman had his way with the Great Danes to put up 24 points, eight rebounds and an assist in the team’s 102-85 victory. Prior to that, he had the hot hand against the Big Red. He collected 23 points, 12 boards and three dimes in Syracuse’s 82-72 win at the time.
“Donnie” has not suited up to play since suffering a lower leg injury in the game against the Florida State Seminoles on January 4.
Since then, he has missed the last nine games and was listed as “day-to-day” prior to the team’s latest announcement.
With his stellar play at the high school and collegiate levels, Freeman has garnered attention at the NBA level but it remains unclear whether he intends to join Syracuse next season or declare for the NBA draft.
He was named to the 2024 McDonald’s AllAmerican team and made his senior men’s basketball team debut at the FIBA Olympic Qualifier in Valencia, Spain, last summer.
Jyare Davis has been slotted into the starting role in Freeman’s absence.
BRENDEN VANDERPOOL
FROM PAGE 15
Birmingham CrossPlex in Birmingham, Alabama.
The Samford Bulldogs rounded out the top three for the event.
Samford junior Carter Ellis finished in second place at 5.15m (16’-10.75). His teammate Jed Sisco got the final podium spot at 5.00m (16’-04.75).
Samford also had a successful showing in the women’s pole vault event. Sophomore Antonina Tereshenko claimed second place at 3.76m (12-04.00). First place went to Memphis’ Joycelyn Crum at 3.86m (12-08.00).
The final top spot went to Kayley Stanley, of Jacksonville State. She cleared 3.66m for third overall.
with 19 points and eight rebounds.
PACERS 134, WIZARDS 130, OT WASHINGTON (AP) — Obi Toppin had season highs of 31 points and 10 rebounds, and Indiana rallied from a 19-point deficit to beat NBA-worst Washington in overtime.
Bennedict Mathurin scored 28 points and Tyrese Haliburton added 20 for the Pacers, who enter the All-Star break at 30-23 and in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. Jordan Poole scored 42 points for the Wizards and missed a step-back 3-point attempt at the regulation buzzer.
NETS 100, 76ERS 92 NEW YORK (AP) — D’Angelo Russell had 22 points, five rebounds and four assists, and Brooklyn beat Philadelphia in the teams’ last game before the All-Star break.
Nic Claxton had 13 points, 11 rebounds and five blocks, and Cam Johnson added 16 points and six rebounds. Trendon Watford scored 18 points
off the bench for Brooklyn, which won its third straight.
Quentin Grimes had 30 points and eight rebounds, and Kelly Oubre Jr. also scored 30 for Philadelphia, which lost its fifth straight and seventh in its last eight.
CAVALIERS 131, RAPTORS 108 TORONTO (AP) — Donovan Mitchell scored 21 points and East-leading Cleveland beat Toronto for their fourth straight victory and eighth in the last nine games.
Tempers flared at the final buzzer after Cleveland’s Tristan Thompson dunked with four seconds left. Toronto’s Scottie Barnes confronted Thompson near center court for an exchange of words.
De’Andre Hunter scored 18 points, Sam Merrill had 16 and Darius Garland 15 for the Cavaliers in the final game for both teams before the All-Star break.
BUCKS 103, TIMBERWOLVES 101 MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kyle Kuzma had 19 points and 13 rebounds and Milwaukee won without
All-Stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, beating Minnesota. Anthony Edwards’ jumper in the final seconds was off for Minnesota and Kuzma — playing his fourth game for Milwaukee after being acquired from Washington — came down with the rebound.
Gary Trent Jr., who went to high school in a Twin Cities suburb, had 21 points off the bench for the Bucks in their final game before the All-Star break. They had lost six of eight.
THUNDER 115, HEAT 101
OKLAHOMA CITY
(AP) — Shai GilgeousAlexander had 32 points and nine assists, and Oklahoma City rallied from a 21-point deficit to defeat Miami. Jalen Williams scored 18 points and Lu Dort added 17 for the Thunder, who won their seventh straight and improved to a leaguebest 44-9. Oklahoma City never led until a 24-0 run to start the fourth quarter that put the team ahead for good. The Thunder outscored the Heat 32-8
in the final period led by Gilgeous-Alexander who scored 14 points in the fourth. Bam Adebayo had 27 points and 15 rebounds and Tyler Herro added 14 points for the Heat. Andrew Wiggins added 13 points in his second game with the Heat since being traded from the Golden State Warriors.
Prior to Vanderpool’s winning performance at the UAB Invite last Friday, he made his season debut at the University of South Alabama Jaguar Invitational on February 2. He placed fourth in the event with his attempt of 5.03m. Vanderpool will be one to keep an eye on as the Samford Bulldogs return to competition at the 2025 Samford Bulldog Invite at the Birmingham CrossPlex February 14-15.
CHAMPIONS
The Kingsway Academy Saints were the only team to close out their series yesterday at the Kendal GL Isaacs Gymnasium. The team
avenged last year’s loss against the St John’s College Giants with a 2-0 sweep in the senior girls’ BAISS best-of-three championship series.
BAYLOR guard V.J. Edgecombe (7) drives around Houston guard L.J. Cryer (4) and forward Joseph Tugler (11) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game on Monday night. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
UNIVERSITY
Mingoes basketball ends international drought with ‘nail-biter win’ over MAU
DAVIE, Florida – The
University of The Bahamas men’s basketball team hadn’t won an international matchup since 2020 and wanted to put a stop to that streak against Millenia Atlantic University over the weekend.
In a game with seven lead changes and nine ties it was clear the matchup would come down to the last 40 seconds as The Mingoes won 69-67 at The David Posnack Jewish Community Center in Davie, Florida.
With 38 seconds to go in the second half, captain Theodore Grant capitalised on a steal and tough layup to pull the Mingoes within one point at 65-64.
After the inbound, The Mingoes again with a steal to create another fastbreak opportunity that forward Jerehemiah Miller converted on the put back to give the team the 66-65 lead.
After MAU’s quick layup to go up 67-66 and then Grant back on the line with two free throws - the first he connected on - the game was tied at 67-67 with 27 seconds to go in the half. With 15.1 on the clock, Grant stole the ball and again found Miller for the go-ahead layup.
The Mingoes had a 69-67 lead as MAU pushed the ball and an unfortunate
foul by UB stopped the clock for a backcourt out of bounds restart.
Mingoes allowed MAU to get the ball in the front court and deflected the pass out of bounds with 3.1 seconds to go. On the inbound, the UB defence held MAU’s top scorers at bay. MAU was able to get off a wobbly three-point attempt that hit the top of the backboard with no hope of going in the basket to give The Mingoes the 69-67 win.
Jerehemiah Miller scored 21 points with 12 rebounds and forward Gabriel Styles scored 18 points with nine rebounds in the win.
“Everything just came together and everyone just played with heart and our defence was really on point despite a few mistakes,” Miller said.
“We really wanted it more than them.”
Styles, who also had four steals and four blocks, said it was clear what worked for the team. “We played with a lot of defensive intensity and that led to offence,” Styles said.
Grant, who scored 10 points to go along with 12 assists and eight steals, said it was clear defence won them the game. “Our defence really picked up in the last half of the game and
we really capitalised on the defence creating offence for us out there,” the senior captain said. “The press
we had out there really got MAU aggravated and that caused a turnover that we were able to convert.”
Gregory Cox scored five points and had seven rebounds for the Mingoes. And Audley Russell pulled down six rebounds and contributed six points to help get the
by UB Athletics
victory off the bench.
Photos
UB Mingoes guard and captain Theodore Grant drives against a MAU player.
UB Mingoes guard and captain Theodore Grant drives against a MAU player in their game at The David Posnack Jewish Community Center in Davie, Florida, on February 8. Grant scored 10 points in the UB 69-67 win.
UB Mingoes guard Gregory Cox drives against a MAU player.
UB Mingoes forward Jerehemiah Miller drives against a MAU player.
UB Mingoes forward Audley Russell drives to the basket.