woman & health
PM: US dr U g P robe
May be entraPMent
Davis: Sting operation may have been used to catch officers
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune staff reporter jrussell@tribunmedia.net
PRIME Minister Philip
“Brave” Davis said yesterday a major US drug trafficking case involving Bahamian law enforcement officers appears, on the surface, to involve entrapment.
Mr Davis suggested the officers named in the indictment may have been deliberately lured or manipulated into participating in the scheme.
Speaking to reporters, he confirmed that the government has not received a response to a diplomatic note sent last year seeking further details about an unnamed Bahamian politician alluded to in the
Domestic Violence unit opens to offer support to V ictims
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
THE Royal Bahamas Police Force has officially opened the country’s first standalone Domestic Violence Unit — a 24/7 facility designed to provide immediate, coordinated, and compassionate support for survivors of abuse.
The launch has been described as a major step forward in addressing domestic violence in The Bahamas, where advocates say too many victims continue to suffer in silence.
The new unit offers various services, including investigations, counselling, risk assessments, temporary
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune staff reporter jrussell@tribunmedia.net
AISHA Bowe clutched a miniature Bahamian flag as she soared past the Kármán line aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket yesterday, becoming the first Bahamian to cross the internationally recognised boundary of space. After safely landing back at Launch Site One in West
cabinet minister Darren Henfield is eyeing the Central and South Abaco
offices, Cost Right
Photo: Dante Carrrer
aisha Bowe after returning from her trip to space.
Blaze causes major damage to Solomon’s, Cost Right and several government offices
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
A MASSIVE fire engulfed the Hyacinth Stuart Building and surrounding commercial properties yesterday, forcing evacuations, halting operations at major retailers, and disrupting the planned move-in of several key government departments.
The fire, which broke out late yesterday morning, raged into the evening, affecting the newly constructed multi-agency facility along with Solomon’s Old Trail and CostRight. Smoke and flames forced the closure of the East-West Highway, and nearby businesses,
including Cable Bahamas, were evacuated.
Emergency services responded swiftly. About 60 to 70 police officers — both on and off-duty — were deployed to the scene, assisted by the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and seven officers from the airport.
Firefighters used four fire units to contain the blaze, each carrying 1,000 gallons of water. According to Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles, emergency teams received a report around 10.44am indicating a fire had started in the generator room at Solomon’s. Units arrived shortly thereafter but were unable to contain the flames before the fire spread. Three officers sustained injuries
during the response, two of whom required hospital treatment.
Although the government agencies had not yet officially occupied the Hyacinth Stuart Building, ten staff members were conducting a final walk-through in preparation for relocation. The building was set to house the Department of Labour, the Department of Immigration, and the Disaster Risk Management Authority. Furniture had already been installed, and some files were on site.
Evacuations extended to employees of Solomon’s, CostRight, and Cable Bahamas. AML Foods, which owns Solomon’s and CostRight, confirmed that no injuries were reported among staff
or customers. The company said it was waiting on clearance from emergency
responders before assessing the damage and added that employee support measures were in place to address any disruptions. On-site, observers
Smoke billows from the Hyacinth Stuart Building yesterday after a fire which is believed to have started with the generator spread throughout the property.
Photos: Nikia Charlton
A fire engine from the Airport Authority assists at the scene.
Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
A fire truck was damaged and a fireman was injured during an explosion at the scene.
described a scene of growing panic as the fire intensified. A loud thud was heard from within the building, prompting bystanders to flee across the street. The smoke grew increasingly thick throughout the afternoon.
Gregory Knowles of GMC Maintenance had just exited a meeting in the complex and said the fire originated near Solomon’s generator room. He recalled initially seeing only a small blaze but said it escalated quickly. He estimated roughly 400 people were evacuated and maintained that all safety protocols had been in place
prior to the incident.
The Hyacinth Stuart Building — which was being rented by the government — involved multiple contractors and tenant agencies. Labour and Public Service Minister Pia Glover-Rolle said the facility’s owner assured officials the structure is fully insured. She added that rental payments had already begun, as occupancy was in progress, though the terms of the agreement may now need to be reviewed. The minister confirmed that there would be no immediate disruption to government operations
since the departments had not yet fully relocated. She said existing offices will continue to be used, and timelines for relocation will be adjusted accordingly.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, which will begin in full once the fire is completely extinguished.
Commissioner Knowles noted that emergency services rely on available equipment to respond to major incidents. She said the force is pursuing the acquisition of new firefighting vehicles and equipment and that the government has committed to assisting in that effort.
five feared dead after suspected smuggling vessel capsizes en route to florida
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) intends to increase its maritime presence in the Northern Bahamas following the tragic capsizing of a suspected smuggling vessel en route to Florida.
The US Coast Guard Seventh District reported that four people were rescued on Sunday, approximately 29 miles off St Lucie Inlet, after a Good Samaritan spotted them clinging to the overturned vessel.
According to US officials, one of the survivors
told responders that the boat had capsized on Saturday, just a day after departing from Bimini with nine people on board.
The US Coast Guard launched a massive search operation, covering more than 1,100 square miles over seven hours.
However, no additional survivors were found, and the search was suspended yesterday. Five people are still unaccounted for and are feared dead.
In response to the tragedy, RBDF Commodore Raymond King said the Defence Force will strengthen its operations in the Northern Bahamas via additional vessels to
support a ship rider programme between the US and RBDF. He acknowledged, however, that despite increased security efforts in recent years, there has been limited success in
stopping smugglers.
“Given the significant increase in mixed nationality smuggling from the Northern Bahamas to the US (primarily the State of Florida); intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance
and increased patrols have occurred over the past 2 years with minimal success on the smugglers part,” he told The Tribune yesterday.
“Additionally, under the Trump Administration,
the US has assigned a large number of vessels and aircraft in the Florida Straits, Old Bahama Channel and Windward Passage towards countering illegal and irregular migration.”
Minister of Labour speaks to the media at the scene of the blaze that destroyed the offices the Department of Labour recently moved to.
Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Domestic Violence Unit opens to offer support to victims
housing for high-risk cases, medical and welfare referrals, and real-time data tracking. Officers assigned to the facility have received training in trauma-informed care and will work with shelters and other support services to ensure survivors are not left to navigate the system alone.
Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles clarified that the facility is not a shelter but a short-term response centre for those in immediate danger. She said those in need of long-term accommodation would be referred to appropriate shelters.
Commissioner Knowles also drew attention to an increase in reported domestic violence incidents in 2024, noting that cases of assault causing harm and threats of death had risen sharply. She said while the statistics are troubling on their own, they don’t account for victims who are too afraid or unable to come forward.
She credited former Commissioner Clayton Fernander with initiating the project in July 2022 through the formation of a specialised Domestic Violence Task Force.
National Security Minister Wayne Munroe said the facility’s creation could lead to a short-term rise in reports as victims
gain confidence in the support available. He pointed to research showing high rates of violence against women in The Bahamas,
referencing an IDB survey that found nearly a quarter of Bahamian women had experienced physical or sexual violence at some
Munroe defends camera proposal for visitor safety
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS
Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe defended a proposal to outfit tourists and jet ski operators with body-worn cameras, insisting the measure would enhance safety and transparency in response to recent sexual assault cases involving jet ski rentals.
His comments follow a travel advisory by the United States Embassy, which warned American citizens of the risk of sexual violence while vacationing in The Bahamas. The advisory noted that two US tourists were recently sexually assaulted after being picked up by jet ski operators on beaches in Nassau and Paradise Island and taken to remote cays.
Mr Munroe said the proposal is one of several safety measures being considered by a policeled task force established to address long-standing concerns within the jet ski
industry. He said a task force, which includes Assistant Commissioner of Police Janet McKenzie and representatives from the police, port, tourism, and other stakeholders, has been formed to address concerns in the jet ski industry. Mr Munroe said that in some tourist destinations, visitors pay to have their jet ski rides recorded so they can share the footage on social media. He suggested that a similar approach in The Bahamas could appeal to tourists, allowing them to document their experience while also demonstrating that the ride was incident-free and handled properly.
He pushed back at critics who questioned the use of body-worn cameras, saying such opposition raised red flags. Free National Movement deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright had called the body camera proposal a distraction from the government’s broader failure to enforce existing laws, saying: “Our beaches
are now marred by safety concerns and international advisories.”
Mr Munroe said yesterday: “Why were they opposed to it? Did they tell you why they were opposed to it? If you have a camera and you’re not doing anything, what do you have to worry about?”
“You only have to worry about a camera if you want to do things in secret, and that’s the reason why we outfit police with them. An honest policeman who is not going to abuse his power has no difficulty wearing a body camera; a jet ski operator who isn’t going to rape and molest the tourists should have no difficulty wearing it. The ones who are minded to rape and molest tourists may have an issue with it, so I’d like to know who are these operators who seem to want to always be in secret.”
Mr Munroe said the task force is also examining proposals to better regulate beach rentals by identifying licensed vendors, limiting
where operators can pick up tourists, and establishing clear swimming zones to prevent collisions or unsafe practices.
He said the recommendations will help the US Embassy offer more specific guidance to its citizens, distinguishing between legitimate businesses and rogue operators. US Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish addressed the recent incidents during remarks at
point in their lives. He also highlighted the prevalence of emotional, psychological, and economic abuse, calling such levels of harm
the launch of the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s Domestic Violence Unit, pointing to recent sexual assaults involving jet ski operators as evidence of the need for stronger safeguards. She said the embassy’s recent security alert, which referenced attacks on American tourists, “serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address state safety concerns comprehensively.” She acknowledged that progress has been made and commended the Bahamian government’s efforts so far, emphasising that
unacceptable.
He added that many victims remain silent because their abusers are often the primary earners in the home, a reality that must be addressed alongside enforcement efforts.
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said domestic violence is one of those issues that doesn’t require statistics to prove its seriousness — people feel its impact in their homes and communities every day. He said the unit was created for those silently enduring abuse and for those unsure whether to intervene when they hear signs of violence.
He assured survivors that they were not alone and that help was available through the newly opened unit and the wider support network working alongside it.
The media were asked not to report the facility’s location due to safety concerns, though invited guests were permitted to tour the building.
While the cost of renovations was not disclosed, Commissioner Knowles thanked community partners whose donations made the facility possible.
continued collaboration between both countries is essential to ensure safety for residents and visitors, and to hold perpetrators accountable.
Sandra Dean-Patterson, director of the Bahamas Crisis Centre, also voiced support for the idea of body-worn cameras, viewing them as a possible protective measure for vulnerable individuals. She noted that jet ski passengers are often entirely dependent on the operator, which can pose risks, and said if the proposal is financially practical, it is worth serious consideration.
Officials including Minister of State in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development Lisa Rahming, Ann Marie Davis, Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles, US Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish and ACP Janet McKenzie cut the ribbon during the official opening of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) Domestic Violence Unit on Infant View Road yesterday. Photo: Dante carrer/Tribune Staff
NatiONal Security Minister Wayne Munroe speaks during the opening of the Domestic Violence Unit.
Photo: Dante carrer/Tribune Staff
PM: US drug probe may be entrapment
from page one
indictment.
When asked if the lack of a reply from US officials was a concern, he said: “That whole operation is concerning to me, because on the face of it, it appeared to be, it appeared to be an entrapment of officers, and that is concerning.”
The indictment, issued by the US Southern District of New York, alleges that the unnamed politician was expected to authorise Bahamian law enforcement to facilitate a $2m cocaine trafficking operation into the United States.
It names several individuals, including ten Bahamians, accused of either abusing their positions or providing logistical and professional services — such as charter operations — to aid the drug scheme.
Among those named are Chief Superintendent Elvis Curtis and former Royal Bahamas Defence Force Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker, who were both arrested in the United States late last year.
Recent court updates suggest the parties are considering a plea deal.
The US indictment alleged that Bahamian law enforcement officials provided protection to traffickers, accepted bribes, and offered to move cocaine shipments through Lynden Pindling International Airport. In one case, two officers allegedly accepted a $10,000 down payment to facilitate a 600kg cocaine shipment. Prosecutors claim officials also discussed using government or military aircraft to transport cash from Florida in exchange for a commission.
Henfield eyes seat in Abaco
from page one
prominent community leaders have already declared their interest in running on the party’s ticket.
Mr Henfield, the former North Abaco MP and Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirmed he intends to run in the next general election, although he declined to say which seat he is targeting.
“I’m going to leave that up to the party,” he told reporters. “The party will determine where it’s best for Darren Henfield, if there’s a space for Darren Henfield in the government of The Bahamas.”
Party insiders suggest Mr Henfield is shifting his focus from North Abaco due to lingering public dissatisfaction over the Minnis administration’s handling of Hurricane Dorian. He lost that seat in 2021 by 259 votes to PLP newcomer Kirk Cornish.
While Mr Henfield
weighs his options, two local figures — Chief Councillor Jeremy Sweeting and Marsh Harbour/Spring City Township chairman Roscoe Thompson — have confirmed they are actively seeking the FNM’s nomination in Central and South Abaco.
Mr Sweeting, a former
contender for the nomination in 2021, said he would withdraw if Mr Henfield officially entered the race.
“I would wholeheartedly support him,” Mr Sweeting said. “I have a lot of trust and I have a lot of faith in him, and I look at Mr Henfield as someone who has a big role to play on the national stage, and if Central and South Abaco is the vehicle he needs to make a viable contribution on the national stage, then I wholeheartedly support that.”
Mr Thompson, however, said he has no plans to pull out unless the party’s executive committee names Mr Henfield as its candidate. He previously ran in the area as a DNA candidate in 2012 before rejoining the FNM.
Both men are active voices in the community and have longstanding
political involvement in the constituency.
Meanwhile, in North Abaco, 40-year-old consultant and former pastor Ryan Forbes has announced interest in the FNM nomination. He said his decision to enter politics was guided by prayer and community encouragement.
“That decision was a result of the people,” he said. “It was the people who called for me. I did not make it on my own. Even before I transitioned from the church, I did not say I’m going to come from the church and go into politics. That was never the plan.”
If nominated, Mr Forbes said his priorities would include economic development, addressing the housing crisis, and improving health services on the island.
Prime minister PhiliP ‘Brave’ Davis
Jeremy sweeting
roscoe thomPson iii
senator Darren henfielD
The Tribune Limited
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No stone unturned - or turning to point blame at accusers?
IN the wake of the US indictment alleging corruption within the ranks of law enforcement and government officials as part of a cocaine smuggling ring, there were tough words. Not so much now, it seems. The indictment included the arrest of Chief Superintendent of Police Elvis Curtis and Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker of the Defence Force.
In the wake of the allegations, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander tendered his resignation – though not before making a national statement laying out how he would tackle corruption in the force, a plan he never carried out, resigning soon after.
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said the claims were “unforgiveable” and vowed they “will not go unanswered”.
He went on to promise that “no stone will be left unturned in seeking the truth”, adding: “We will engage with our US partners and assist fully in this investigation. The defendants will have their day in court, where the guilt or innocence of each will be established. But we cannot wait –– and we will not wait –– for the outcomes of court proceedings in the United States. We are going to use every resource –– and consider every option –– so that Bahamians can trust those who take an oath to protect them.”
Among the allegations was that an unnamed Bahamian politician had been expected to authorise Bahamian law enforcement to facilitate a $2m cocaine trafficking operation.
The indictment did name a number of other individuals, including ten Bahamians.
But now Mr Davis is not talking about turning over stones – but suggesting that he has concerns over the “whole operation”, saying “it appeared to be an entrapment of officers”.
He suggested the officers may have been deliberately lured or manipulated into taking part in the scheme.
That seems a very long way from thinking things were “unforgiveable”.
The government has still not received
a response from US officials to a diplomatic note asking for more information about the unnamed politician, and it was when asked about that that Mr Davis expressed his concerns. Here’s the thing about that diplomatic note, however – US court officials do not need to respond. Their job is to complete their investigation and carry out their prosecutions, not any political ramifications.
And it seems clear from the indictment that there has been a lack of trust when it comes to sharing information with Bahamian authorities in case it falls into the wrong hands.
Recent reports in the US suggest plea deals are being considered.
The indictment itself included allegations such as two officers accepting a $10,000 down payment to facilitate a 600kg cocaine shipment, or officials discussing using government vehicles to transport cash from Florida.
Mr Davis did not elaborate on how the turning over of stones was going here in The Bahamas, rather just pointing the finger at the US investigation without elaborating on why he thinks officers may have been tricked into being caught up in the alleged drug smuggling ring.
There have of course been calls for an independent investigation, perhaps a commission of inquiry. Mr Davis’ latest comments will not lessen the demands for a clear, thorough investigation that is transparent to the public.
An inspirational legacy
In yesterday’s editorial, we noted the long journey of Aisha Bowe as she set her sights on the stars and her dream of becoming an astronaut.
Yesterday morning, she fulfilled that dream.
We applaud her, of course. She is a history maker. But perhaps even greater than that, she will perhaps inspire a generation of Bahamians to believe that their dreams can also come true.
That would be the greatest legacy of all.
Minnis living in delusion
EDITOR, The Tribune.
THERE’S no polite way to say this: Dr Hubert Minnis is not the leader of the Free National Movement, and hasn’t been for some time. But you wouldn’t know that from the way he carries on. In his recent statement, he spoke like the party owes him something. That he should be consulted, worshipped, and handed the future on a silver platter. Sorry, Doc: that’s not how it works. Leadership is not a birthright. And the party’s
constitution — the very one he’s now pretending to defend — was ignored by him for years. No convention. No consultation. No transparency. Minnis didn’t just disregard the constitution; he steamrolled it. So forgive us if we find it laughable that now, suddenly, he wants to wrap himself in the rulebook. You can’t act like the monarch, sue the party you say you love, refuse to meet with leadership, and then demand loyalty from the same team you’re
Patricia was a national treasure
EDITOR, The Tribune. IT WAS in 2003, just shy of adulthood, that I had the great fortune of meeting the late Patricia Glinton-Meicholas. I was eighteen years old— an idealist tossed into the deep end—newly appointed to the Council of the then College of The Bahamas. I found myself seated among giants, including Sir Franklyn Wilson (as he now is) as Chair, alongside Dr. Earl Cash, the Reverend Angela Palacious, the late Audrey IngrahamRoberts… and Patricia Glinton-Meicholas.
undermining. This is about ego, not service. This isn’t a former PM trying to be a team player. It’s a man obsessed with staying centre stage. And frankly, we’re tired of it. The FNM is bigger than one man. We are building the future, not repeating the past. And if Minnis can’t see that, then respectfully… we decline to entertain the delusion.
REAL FNM, REAL TALK Nassau, April 14, 2025.
Even in that impressive company, Patti stood apart—not by volume or force, but by depth. Measured in speech, sharp in insight, and profoundly grounded in the Bahamian experience, she was a mind and a spirit not easily forgotten.
Patti—The Gaulin Woman—was no ordinary person. She was unapologetically Bahamian—fiercely proud of our culture, our land, and our people. She loved this country in its entirety: every rock, every tree, every whisper of bush medicine and memory. And through her writing—whether academic, poetic, or theatrical—she dedicated her life to the preservation of our story,
our spirit, and the linguistic cords that bind us together. She chronicled The Bahamas not merely as it was but as it felt. She gave us back to ourselves, page after page. In time, Patti would receive accolades. These honours were hard-fought—often delayed—but we are thankful that some recognition came. If there is any silver lining in that, it is this: each award stood as a testament not to popularity but to sheer skill and unflinching effort.
Critical critique of culture rarely wins friends, but Patti’s work was never for applause. It was for truth, for posterity, for us. And yet, beyond all of this, Patti was, quite simply, a decent human being. A decent human being. When I was preparing to leave for university, I received an envelope from her. Written on the front: “For your taxi fare from the airport.” That quiet act of kindness has never left me. Nor have her words upon my return: urging me to cling to the idealism of my youth—the belief that we Bahamians
can do anything, be anything, and compete with the best anywhere in the world because we are the best in the world! She believed that. Not sentimentally, but fully. She believed in us. And through that belief, she inspired so many, myself included, to believe in themselves.
Patricia GlintonMeicholas was a national treasure. A cultural guardian. A moral compass. And a true friend. May her name be etched not only in the annals of Bahamian literature but in the hearts of every generation she sought to lift. We are richer for her presence and poorer for her passing. But oh, what a gift it was to know her. My heartfelt condolences go out to her husband, son, family and to all who knew and loved her. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
TAvARES K LARODA Former Student Representative (2004) Council of The College of The Bahamas New Providence April 13, 2025.
UTEB monitoring accreditation process to ensure employees not undermined
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
THE president of the Union of Tertiary Educators of The Bahamas says the union is monitoring the University of The Bahamas’ accreditation process to ensure it does not undermine employment protections or previously accepted qualifications for faculty.
While UTEB is not directly involved in the university’s pursuit of accreditation, Daniel Thompson said the union is paying close attention to developments — particularly as new credentialing requirements are introduced.
He made it clear that the union supports the university’s efforts so long as they do not negatively affect existing faculty.
“As long as the credentialing process does not adversely impact our faculty who already credentialed in first coming to the university, and now that the accreditation process is introducing new credentialing requirement, a new credentialing process, our position is that that is fine as long as it doesn’t mitigate, it doesn’t reduce that which existed before,” he said.
Mr Thompson, who also serves as chair of UB’s School of Business, said faculty are actively engaged in meeting accreditation demands, including programme reviews and credentialing benchmarks. He
described the process as collaborative and said faculty are working closely with administration.
“We’re not trying to create any impediment, because we consider as a pure academic process that is within the domain of the university,” he said. His comments come as UTEB continues to question the Board of Trustees’ recent decision to appoint Dr Robert Blaine III as the university’s next president. Mr Thompson has previously expressed concern about the union’s exclusion from early stages of the search process — something he described as a departure from past precedent.
He said the union was not part of the committee that conducted initial evaluations of candidates and only became involved once a shortlist was already determined. In contrast to previous appointments, where faculty representatives played a more active role in assessing applicants, UTEB’s input this time was limited to interviews with final candidates.
Mr Thompson said the change meant the union could not carry out the same level of internal review as before. He maintained that UTEB’s involvement earlier in the process could have provided insight that might have shaped the outcome.
“This board of trustee felt that there was no need to have the union intimately involved in the search committee. They felt that we be an outsider
New iNdustrial agreemeN t betweeN uNioN a Nd
Nib a ‘major step forward’
By KEILE CAMPBELL
Tribune
Staff Reporter
kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
NATIONAL Insurance Board employees will receive adoption leave, hazardous pay, and significant salary and bonus increases under a new five-year industrial agreement hailed by officials as a landmark deal for public officers.
The agreement, signed between the National Insurance Board (NIB) and the Union of Public Officers (UPO), covers 2024 to 2028 and introduces several benefits for the first time, including structured milestone leave, increased travel allowances, and enhanced emergency leave.
“Today, we are all reaping the benefits of faith, patience, and unity,” said UPO president Nadia Vanderpool. “This agreement marks a major step forward in how we support and value our members.”
The deal introduces hazardous pay for frontline workers such as technicians and janitors, adoption leave for union members, and universal Christmas bonuses, replacing the previous performance-based model.
“These hard-working individuals who often work in challenging and sometimes dangerous environments will now be compensated for their vital contributions in a way that recognises their efforts,” Ms Vanderpool said.
Employees at the top of their salary scale will now be eligible for partial salary increases and lump sum payments based on performance evaluations. Salary scales will also expand by two increments of $1,700 in both the first and third years of the agreement.
Salaries will increase by 24 percent over the agreement term, while bonuses are expected to grow by 31 percent. Structured lump sum payments totalling $4,000 will be distributed in the first, third, and fifth years, beginning with a signing bonus this month.
“The first lump sum payment will be made to all members within the next few days on the April 2025 payroll,” Ms Vanderpool
as external stakeholder,” he said.
“We would have been in a position to scrutinise and to advise them,” he added.
Mr Thompson reiterated his view that the university is taking a risk by appointing Dr Blaine, whom he has described as having experience more aligned with planning and administration than university leadership. While he accepted that the final decision rested with the Board of Trustees, he said the lack of faculty participation left the union with little opportunity to offer guidance that might have helped avoid future problems.
“Now, any advice, anything that comes up subsequent to his appointment, we are on the outside of all. We will say we told you so, or you didn’t give us a chance to advise you previously. You made your choice and we didn’t have a chance,” he said.
Although the union has publicly supported a different candidate, Mr Thompson said UTEB remains committed to working constructively with the new president — as long as faculty rights are respected and academic standards remain protected throughout the university’s reform efforts.
Henfield: Time for Minnis to move on
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
FREE National Movement Senator Darren Henfield says it’s time for former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis to move on following the party’s decision to drop him as its Killarney candidate.
While Mr Henfield declined to address Dr Minnis’ criticism of the decision directly, he acknowledged the difficulties the former leader faced in office and credited him for his efforts.
“I believe Dr Minnis had a very tough time in office,” he told reporters. “A Churchillian time in office. Only Churchill in the Commonwealth had a rougher time in office than he did. I believe that he did. He did his best. We did our best. I believe that he did a good job under the circumstances in which we face, but it’s time to move on.”
Mr Henfield’s comments come amid ongoing fallout from Dr Minnis’ exclusion, which was confirmed last week by FNM leader Michael Pintard. The announcement has drawn mixed reactions within the party and deepened longstanding tensions between the two men.
Dr Minnis responded
to the decision in a statement on Sunday, accusing the party of abandoning its democratic traditions.
“The attempt to forcibly end my service to the people of Killarney does not reflect the democratic traditions upon which our party was built,” he said.
Mr Henfield, who Dr Minnis appointed to his Cabinet, defended the party’s internal process.
“There’s a process in the Free National Movement for the selection of candidates,” he said. “We have
followed that process, as far as I’m aware.”
Despite the party’s decision, Dr Minnis said he continues to receive strong support from constituents and is still weighing his political future.
“I have always taken seriously my duty to Killarney,” he said. “That work is not yet complete.”
While he has not committed to running as an independent, his statement left open the possibility of seeking re-election outside the FNM.
said. She added that for members who reach the maximum of their salary scales, “these individuals will still receive part of the increment as a salary increase, and the remaining balance will be paid as a one-time lump sum payment.”
Emergency leave has also been extended from three to five days, while allowances for vehicle and gas mileage, tour duty, and travel per diems have been increased to reflect realworld costs.
NIB director Dr Tami Francis called the agreement a “meaningful step toward a more inclusive and responsive workplace culture,” noting that it reflected the evolving needs of staff and the importance of collaborative dialogue between union and management.
“This positive milestone, which is a product of genuine dialogue, marks our shared commitment to progress, fairness and mutual respect,” Dr Francis said.
NIB chairman Philip McKenzie said the agreement was more than just a financial document — it represented shared values and commitment to the workforce.
“This signing confirms NIB’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of employees with a focus on encouraging collaboration and sustainability,” he said.
He praised the union’s leadership throughout negotiations, particularly Ms Vanderpool, telling members: “She’s tough, she’s practical, and she worked very hard and I can tell you that she never stopped working for you.”
Mr McKenzie said the agreement now clears the way for NIB to focus on improving service to the public and strengthening the long-term management of the fund.
“We think that at NIB, we are in a good place now to focus our attention on some of the things that we need in terms of service to the public and the growth and sustainability and the effective management of the assets of the fund,” he said.
Senator Darrern HenfielD
Going to the pump, gaming the system
I was born in the early fifties. we didn’t have much, but we did the best with what we had.
My mother made $40 per week while raising five of us. we lived in a tiny oneroom house. we didn’t know we were poor, but we were comfortable because we had nothing to compare it to. we got water from the government pump a block away. On wash day, we had to make several trips back and forth. It was a testament to our resilience, a reminder that even in the face of challenges, we can make the most of what we have.
The landlord rented the house with the full knowledge that there was no potable water or inside bathroom facilities, which was common in many “over the hill” areas where clean water was a luxury. The government, recognising this need, provided faucets in certain areas, including ours, a block away. Times have passed, and
FACING REALITY
By Ivo I ne Ingraham
in many scenarios, we have moved on, but many stayed, fully embracing free water with no intentions of leaving.
Unscrupulous landlords continue to collect rent and even have protection from not supplying basic needs. But who is policing this vexing problem?
The exploitation of government by many is
taking a toll on us, who pay our way and accept that for a country to function and flourish, the people must contribute equally. we, as taxpayers, have a significant role to play in addressing these issues. It’s crucial that we are aware of these issues and take responsibility for addressing them, as it’s our collective action that can bring about change.
Recently, I had to slow down while driving through an inner-city street because there was a lake from water waste on the ground. By then, thousands of gallons had been lost, and someone had to pay for that. The lack of urgency to repair the damage was inconceivable.
The conversation that needs to be had every day is about how long it will take for this to become a thing of the past. when will there be regulations that hold the landlord’s feet to the fire for not providing bathrooms with running water in every
rental? why has this been allowed to continue all of these years? we need a structured system to ensure these basic living conditions are met. But with the proper regulations and enforcement, there is hope for change. This hope is what keeps us pushing for a better future.
The tenant suffers, but the country should not have to bear the cost of providing water from the state.
In the inner city, roadside reciprocals are abused wantonly without regard or conscience because they are free to the user but not to the population paying through their noses for the wastage.
People from other lands get away with living free. They have become like leeches preying on the slackness that persists.
This is a vexing issue, and an agency should be developed to assess where the roadside pumps are and where the rental units are without running water. which ministry is responsible for remedying this age-old practice? The agency should also force the landlord to adhere to regulations if there are any in place to insist they provide basic living conditions for tenants or shut them down until they comply.
Of course, many would find a way to game the system, like using a drop cord from house to house rather than going through the proper channels. service should be withdrawn from anyone who steals power, just as those who rent without running water inside.
The Bahamas has survived with someone somewhere taking a shortcut, referring to the systemic issues, such as lack of proper regulations and enforcement, that have allowed these problems to persist. It is high time that the law steps in and exerts itself to address these issues. an agency that operates like the price control must be commissioned to stamp out the proliferation of water. Let us face reality: the
pump is used not only by the have-nots but also by people who can afford it but choose to use the system because it is their nature always to get something for nothing.
Let’s face reality: there are too many cracks for people to live free while spending lavishly on trivialities. The original reason for providing water from government must come to an end. This is the twenty-first century, not the 50s, when I was a boy.
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Govt to rescue of British Steel
How compelling it was early on Saturday morning to watch the BBC TV coverage of an emergency debate in the House of Commons at westminster about the steel industry in Britain. Given the time difference, it was a live transmission.
The exceptional action of calling MPs back from their Easter recess to push through emergency legislation to enable the government to intervene in a steel plant was described by the minister responsible as needed because the circumstances and timing were, indeed, exceptional.
This might be of some interest here on account of the recall procedure since, of course, the westminster system of government is followed locally. It could also be relevant in the general context of President Trump’s trade war with China because the steel plant that the British government is stepping in to save is owned and run by a Chinese company.
Reportedly, such a recall during the course of a recess happens from time to time, but history shows that it is extremely rare. The exact number seems to be unclear but some say it has occurred only half a dozen times since 1948 after Parliament had
The Peter Young column
sat on both a Saturday and Sunday on the outbreak of the Second world war in 1939.
The government initiated last weekend’s recall, which included the House of Lords having to sit in order to ensure that any emergency legislation could be passed. The Speaker agreed to the special session on the grounds that it was in the public interest for legislators to determine without delay whether immediate action was required to keep the steelworks open at a place called Scunthorpe in North Lincolnshire which
is in eastern England. Such action was needed because of a threat by the Chinese owners to shut down the plant’s two blast furnaces. If carried out, say the experts, that would have ended primary steel production in the UK. This would not have been acceptable. But parliamentary authority would be required for government to intervene. According to reports, Scunthorpe was the last
Mayhem in a troubled world
IT is self-evident that much of importance internationally is happening at the moment, with news and information readily available to people around the world thanks to sophisticated and comprehensive communications; and one of the reasons is the non-stop activity of the new US president. The various crises around the world and the uncertainty they bring make it hard to decide what to focus on this week. So it might be useful to try to bring together various threads that seem to be interconnected.
The extraordinary saga of Trump’s tariffs that has been constantly changing makes it practically impossible for commentators to try to keep up with fast-moving developments. It is anyway the function of the news channels to provide a blow by blow account as they judge necessary.
But, amidst all the Trump “toing and froing”, it has been interesting that British prime minister Keir Starmer has stressed that his country is still optimistic about a UK-US free trade deal despite facing similar baseline tariffs as the EU and others in the world apart from China. This is because of the close relations the two countries already enjoy on so many other issues like, for example, defence, security and intelligence sharing. who can realistically predict Trump’s next moves? But, in the endless commentary in the UK press, one aspect of the issue caught my eye recently; namely, reported remarks by the director of SoAS (School of oriental and African Studies at the University of London) to the effect that, unwittingly, Trump may have done more than anyone else to further
Xi Jinping’s international objectives, as the Chinese leader seeks to propel his country towards its quest to become a world superpower. Analysts contend that he is consistently attempting to undermine anything positive that the US has achieved through the rules-based international order since the end of the Second world war.
They argue that China’s global strategy has been to work whenever possible against the liberal international order which Trump seems to have abandoned. As such, one wonders whether the white House can really ignore in the longer term the US strategic policy over the years of engaging with the rest of the world. Incidentally, in the context of the whole controversy over tariffs, it is surprising to many observers how quickly the US/China relationship has deteriorated.
Following the Second world war, both Republicans and Democrats worked to embed US power in multilateral institutions to underpin a peaceful, just and prosperous world in order to facilitate international cooperation in dealing with global issues. But Trump is taking the US away from that longheld policy, and people fear that he will preside over the end of the international rules-based order. Another issue about which there was a good deal of movement last week was Ukraine. As Trump has been calling on the Russians “to get moving” on a ceasefire, US envoy Steve witkoff met Putin last week in St Petersburg, their third meeting this year, and the Kremlin described the talks as “productive”. But another
McIlroy’s moment
THERE was incredible drama on Sunday evening at the Masters golf championship at Augusta in Georgia. This is the first major championship of the year.
Rory McIlroy, the experienced and already hugely successful leading golf professional from Northern Ireland, finally came out on top. He won a sudden death play-off against his Ryder Cup colleague, Englishman Justin Rose, to win the only major title that had eluded him in his stellar career.
After the ebb and flow of play over four days he finally fulfilled his dream of winning all four of golf’s major championships in the world, thus becoming only the sixth golfer in history to achieve this outstanding feat. But
disgraceful Russian bombing attack on civilians at the weekend - this time in the Ukrainian city of Sumy killing thirty-four people and injuring more than a hundred - has demonstrated once more Putin’s obstructionism about a peace deal. The Russians are evidently “dragging their feet” and the prospects of a ceasefire remain poor.
Commenting on this latest atrocity, President Zelensky is quoted as saying publicly that “only completely damaged scum can do something like this”. Reportedly, he has now invited Trump to visit Ukraine ahead of any deal with Russia to end the war.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s European allies have pledged $24 billion in a new tranche of military support for the beleaguered nation. Defence ministers met last week in Brussels, with Germany and the UK in the lead, and the British minister said that this new pledge should send a strong signal to Moscow. Interestingly, it seems that these European countries are trying to fill the gap after Trump’s reordering of US priorities in relation to NATo
At the same time as all this, it is reported that on Saturday the US held what were described as “constructive and positive” talks with Iran about its nuclear programme – and further meetings are anticipated.
Despite all the problems around the world, commentators are now saying that at least the leaders concerned are talking to one another. To many, the most important immediate issues are Ukraine and Gaza, which they hope that the US president in his unorthodox way will be able to resolve.
it had been a tough battle that constantly fluctuated. For instance, he started the third day, Saturday, three strokes behind the then leader but was ahead going into the final day. watching the TV coverage over all four days, with fine weather throughout, it looked to me that the famous course was at its best and, of course, the maintenance at Augusta is of the highest quality throughout. Everything was so good that one UK sports writer got so carried away by it all that he described the experience of covering the Masters as going to heaven “before his time”.
Not only was McIlroy’s victory a wonderful climax to his own career but it will have been a boost for British sport as a whole as millions up and down the country will have been glued to their TV sets despite - with the time difference - the late hour. They will surely have congratulated him wholeheartedly on such a fine achievement.
plant in Britain capable of producing virgin steel which is the strongest type used in major construction projects including, among others, buildings, railways, the car industry and defence equipment. It is widely contended that steel made in Britain should be the backbone of the nation’s whole building industry. That is why the prime minister has said that such steel making is essential for the country’s future. It was a strategic national requirement. Therefore, controlling domestic production and protecting the jobs of workers in the industry was in the national interest. The outcome of the debate was that, in a
legislative sprint, the necessary draft authority was rushed through Parliament in a single day - including receipt of the required Royal Assent - to enable the UK government to assume control of the Scunthorpe plant together with British Steel as a whole. Taking such emergency powers duly prevented the Chinese owners from shutting down the furnaces. The government also made clear at the same time that its likely next step would be to nationalize this plant which employs some 2,700 people.
Meanwhile, it is noteworthy that British Steel has been losing money mainly because of soaring energy
prices and environmental levies.
Saturday’s debate was well attended. It was spirited and of a surprisingly high standard with some excellent and knowledgeable contributions considering it had been held at such short notice, and it was all the more impressive for that. MPs seemed to be remarkably well prepared and informed in showing their mettle and some displayed unexpected debating skills. They had been let off the leash in discussing a draft bill that was more than likely going to receive support from both sides of the House.
The agreed overall conclusion was that public control of steel production is in Britain’s long-term interest. There will now surely be long and detailed discussions about the details of nationalisation, particularly the extent of powers given to ministers in running and controlling this vital industry.
This is not the time or place for a debate about the merits of privatisation and to which areas of industry and commerce it should apply. But many in Britain have argued consistently that public utilities providing services to the whole country should be placed directly under the domestic government’s control – and these latest developments will surely reignite discussion about how an industry like steel could have been owned and operated by people from another country -- in this case, China.
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks during a visit to meet British Steel workers in Appleby Village Hall near Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, on Saturday.
Photo: Peter Byrne/AP
Knowles stands by official autopsy result indicating tourist drowned
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter
lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
POLICE Commissioner
Shanta Knowles said yesterday the Royal Bahamas Police Force is standing by the official pathologist’s ruling that American tourist Dinari McAlmont drowned — even as the 23-year-old’s family rejects the finding and pushes for an independent investigation into what they call suspicious circumstances.
Commissioner Knowles, speaking yesterday at the opening of the RBPF’s Domestic Violence Unit, expressed condolences to the family and acknowledged the emotional toll such situations can have.
“Our pathologist has been working in this position for many, many years, and I am not going to defend the pathologist report,” she said. “What I will say is we stand on the pathologist report at this moment, and the investigation into this matter is continuing.
Commissioner Knowles said the matter would
be handed over to the coroner once the investigation reaches that stage, adding that the coroner would make the final determination. Her comments came as the McAlmont family publicly rejected the official cause of death and commissioned an independent autopsy, calling the circumstances surrounding Dinari’s death “suspicious.”
McAlmont of Bowie, Maryland, was found unresponsive on a Paradise Island beach early Saturday, April 5. He had been vacationing with his parents, Michelle BacchusMcAlmont and Desmond McAlmont, when their family getaway turned into a nightmare of grief and unanswered questions.
The family checked into the resort around 8.30pm on Friday, April 4. After dinner, Dinari reportedly left the room, saying he was going to get something to eat. That was the last time his parents saw him alive. Concern grew when he did not return. Police reportedly contacted Ms Bacchus-McAlmont around
5am on Saturday, April 5, to question her about her son. Officers informed her that Dinari’s body had been found lifeless on the beach.
Sometime earlier, between 2am and 3am, officers reportedly visited the family’s hotel room, alleging Dinari had “spat on staff” — a claim the family vehemently denies. Police confirmed that a post-mortem examination had been completed and concluded drowning was the cause of death. Investigators are still awaiting forensic toxicology results but noted that “foul play is not suspected at this time.”
At a press conference on Friday, the family insisted there were visible injuries to Mr McAlmont’s face and upper body when they were finally permitted a brief viewing two days later.
The family has criticised the delayed opportunity to view Dinari McAlmont’s body and the limited communication from authorities since his death. His mother, Michelle Bacchus-McAlmont, a registered nurse, said a photo shown to her raised serious concerns,
as she noticed what she believed to be signs of possible strangulation, including mucus-like fluid around his mouth.
She dismissed the suggestion that her son had gone to the beach on his own, saying he never enjoyed going there. She noted that even during a recent trip to Punta Cana, he avoided the beach entirely. Given that history, she said it was more plausible that someone harmed him and placed him there.
The family’s attorney, Keith Seymour Sr, criticised the Royal Bahamas Police Force for what he described as a vague and unprofessional press release, saying it failed to provide clear or conclusive information.
He questioned the decision to suggest no foul play was involved despite the ongoing nature of the investigation and what he sees as a lack of thorough inquiry. Mr Seymour said authorities had not yet gathered all the facts, including surveillance footage from the Atlantis property, before making such a determination.
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A HAITIAN national was sentenced to one year in prison yesterday after admitting to sexually assaulting his 16-year-old neighbour on Milton Street last week.
Eligene Alcika, 58, was arraigned before Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans on a charge of indecent assault.
Prosecutors said the teen was walking home after buying a snack around 5pm on April 9 when Alcika allegedly pulled her into his house, placed her on his lap, kissed her neck and cheeks, and groped her breasts and genitals.
The girl pushed him away and ran home to tell her mother, who reported the incident to police.
During a police interview, Alcika admitted to placing the girl on his lap and trying to kiss her. In court, with the assistance of a Creole translator, he pleaded guilty and accepted the facts
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
TWO men were remanded to prison yesterday after being accused of shooting someone during a robbery earlier this month. Deon Scavella, 29, and Leander Bell, 30, were arraigned on charges of attempted murder, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. Prosecutors allege the men shot and injured Dianzhi Li with a 9mm pistol during a robbery on April
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
NEARLY 12 years after his infant daughter died in Eleuthera, a man was acquitted of manslaughter this week in a case long delayed by court backlogs. Blounand Vedrine, 37, was found not guilty by a nine-member jury following three days of testimony before Justice Dale Fitzpatrick. Vedrine was accused of accidentally causing the death of five-monthold Berlindia Vedrine in Gregory Town, Eleuthera, on September 6, 2013. The infant was reportedly found with bruises and other injuries to her body.
presented by prosecutors. He told the court he was not in his right frame of mind then and said he is the father of four daughters, aged 12 to 24. He also claimed his work permit was being processed and had a receipt for it at home.
Although Magistrate Vogt-Evans noted Alcika’s early plea and lack of prior offences, she described his actions as “inappropriate” and said the assault warranted a custodial sentence, as it could have caused lasting trauma to the victim. She emphasised the public’s responsibility to protect children and preserve the sanctity of their communities.
Alcika was sentenced to one year at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. Upon completing his sentence, he will be handed over to the Department of Immigration. Several female relatives were present for his sentencing. Assistant Superintendent of Police S Coakley served as the prosecutor.
5 in New Providence. They reportedly stole $8,000 in cash and an iPhone valued at $800 from the victim. The accused were not required to enter pleas and were informed that the case would proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). They were also told of their right to apply for bail in the higher court.
Scavella and Bell were remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until July 31, when their VBIs are expected to be served.
The case was among many stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which suspended trials and led to significant delays in the judicial system. It was not clear up to press time what caused delays before the pandemic. Previously scheduled to be heard by Justice Gregory Hilton in December 2024, the case was reassigned to Justice Fitzpatrick after Justice Hilton’s appointment to the Court of Appeal. Vedrine appeared visibly relieved following the jury’s verdict.
He was represented by Murrio Ducille KC and Bryan Bastian. Tylah Murray and Timothy Bailey served as prosecutors.
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 32-YEAR-OLD man was granted bail yesterday after being accused of causing the death of 19-year-old motorcyclist Elcott Ferguson in a traffic accident on Kemp Road last December. Kendal Joseph was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley on a charge of vehicular manslaughter. Prosecutors allege that around 3am on December 21, 2024, Joseph was driving south on Kemp Road when his brown 2013 Nissan Elgrand, licence plate TN1446, collided headon with Ferguson’s silver and black Yamaha scooter, which was travelling north. Ferguson later died from his injuries at Princess Margaret Hospital. A 43-year-old man riding a white and black Yamaha scooter was also injured in the three-vehicle collision but was treated and released from hospital. Joseph was not required to enter a plea. He was informed that the matter would proceed to the Supreme Court via a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI), scheduled for service on July 31. He was granted $9,500 bail with one or two sureties and must sign in at the Wulff Road Police Station every Monday and Thursday by 6pm. Romona FarquharsonSeymour represented Joseph, while Inspector Deon Barr served as the prosecutor.
Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles yesterday.
Photo: Dante carrer/Tribune Staff
Growing with Disney
By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Education Reporter
jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
STUDENTS throughout
The Bahamas are gaining valuable agricultural knowledge and experience through a school gardening initiative supported by Disney Cruise Line (DCL) and the Agricultural Development Organization (ADO) Bahamas. The program encourages students to grow their own fruits and vegetables, promoting food security, healthy lifestyles, and an appreciation for farming.
At Patrick J Bethel High
School, Abaco, Disney VoluntEARS from Castaway Cay and the ADO team worked alongside students to expand the school’s garden. They helped plant new seedlings, harvest existing crops, and shared a farm-to-table lunch using produce from the garden. The programme, led at the school level by agricultural science educators, provides practical, handson experiences that help students develop lifelong skills. Activities include planting, harvesting, blindfold games to simulate challenges, and even basic sign language training in
other workshops.
The initiative is part of a wider national effort to introduce agriculture into more schools. So far, ADO Bahamas has supported projects in 34 schools across the country. The long-term goal is to establish a functioning garden in every Bahamian school, reduce reliance on imported foods, and encourage healthier eating habits. By engaging students in sustainable farming practices, the program aims to help shape a new generation of backyard gardeners, future agricultural professionals, and healthconscious citizens.
Rotary inspiring youth
THE Rotary Clubs of the Bahamas (RCOB) hosted a Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) event that was held at the New Providence Community Centre on Saturday March 22,.
At the end of the conference, three young leaders were recognised for their leadership skills. They were Deonte Mackey from Columbus Primary EarlyAct Club, Melania Nixon from Lyford Cay School Interact Club, and Lanique Brice, a Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial member.
Approximately 150 youths from 12 schools that have EarlyAct and Interact Rotary partner clubs participated. Those schools included: CC Sweeting, Genesis Academy, Queen’s College High School, RM Bailey, Kingsway Academy, Lyford Cay International School, Anatol Rodgers, Doris Johnson High School, Columbus Primary School, SAC, CI Gibson and St Anne’s High School.
The event also featured a community service aspect, where personal positive messages were written in cards by the attendees to the residents of the Persis Rodgers Home for the Aged. A financial donation was also made to the Senior Citizen Home.
Corporate sponsors of RYLA 2025 Bahamas included: Atlantis, CG Atlantic Medical and Life Insurance Ltd., Doctors Hospital, Insurance Commission of the Bahamas, Insurance Company of the Bahamas, JS Johnson Insurance Agents and Brokers Ltd, New Providence Ecology Park, Summit Insurance Company Ltd., Woodside Insurance Brokerage Ltd, Sun Tee and BWA Whole sale Agencies.
For more information on RYLA and other youth leadership initiatives, visit www.Rotary.org and Rotary Club of The Bahamas website www.rotarybahamas.org or social media pages.
STUDENTS LEARNING ABOUT DIABILITIES
STUDENTS across several schools in New Providence are gaining valuable lessons in inclusion, accessibility, and advocacy through a series of Disability Sensitivity Workshops hosted by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
At AF Adderley Junior High School, approximately 50 students from various grade levels participated in a
session led by Kendrick Rolle, deputy chairman of the NCPD and special projects officer at the Disability Affairs Division, Department of Social Services. He was joined by Annette Lunn, NCPD deaf interpreter, and Thorne Clarke, NCPD inspector. Students were introduced to sign language, learning the alphabet, and participated in blindfold games and
wheelchair exercises to gain firsthand perspective on the challenges experienced by individuals living with disabilities.
In addition to AF Adderley, the NCPD team also brought the workshop experience to students at CC Sweeting High School and Judith P Thompson (Centerville) Primary School.
SERMIYA Taylor, a 10-year-old student at St. John’s College, is proving that leadership knows no age.
As a dedicated member of the Road Runners Track Club, published author, and motivational speaker, she is already making a powerful impact in her community.
Most recently, she hosted a community outreach and donation event at Gambier Primary School, where she provided care packages for the entire student body.
Each package was filled with essential school supplies aimed at supporting
the students’ education and personal development.
The event was held under the theme “Leadership at Any Age,” a message Sermiya not only believes in but also embodies through her actions. Her initiative served as both a generous act of kindness and a reminder to her peers that age is not a barrier to making a difference.
Through her outreach efforts, she strives to inspire students across The Bahamas to lead with compassion, purpose, and vision — demonstrating that the next generation of leaders is already making their mark.
FROM top, young leaders being recognised are Deonte Mackey and Melania Nixon.
Bowe first Bahamian in space
Texas, a Blue Origin host asked how it felt to officially be an astronaut — and playfully remarked on how she managed to look flawless after returning from space.
With a beaming smile, Ms Bowe replied that the experience had changed her forever and said she had chosen the right dream.
“When you get up there and you see the earth and it’s so beautiful; it just fills the screen and it’s not just your window it’s like everybody’s window and there’s no boundaries, there’s no border, there’s just earth,” she said. “It’s incredible.”
Ms Bowe made history as the first Bahamian and sixth Black woman to travel to space. The NS-31 mission was also notable for its all-female crew, which included journalist Gayle King, pop star Katy Perry, activist Amanda Nguyễn, producer Kerianne Flynn, and Lauren Sánchez, who curated the mission.
Ms Bowe’s journey to space was not without challenges. She has previously shared that in high school, she was advised to pursue cosmetology — despite having no interest in the field — because she was not
seen as a strong student. However, her family stood by her decision to become an aerospace engineer and entrepreneur. Her grandfather, Forrester Bowe, played a pivotal role in her journey by helping to fund a NASA internship that launched her path in space exploration.
She recalled that when she hugged him for the first time after returning from space, he said: “I was really worried for you, but then Oprah squeezed me.”
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis also congratulated Ms Bowe on her achievement, stating that she carries the dreams of a nation and the legacy of trailblazing women.
“Her mission is a powerful reminder that representation matters and that our stories, and our brilliance, are truly historic and worthy of being told,” Mr Davis said in a statement.
Thousands of Bahamians also celebrated Ms Bowe’s achievement across social media, proudly sharing the moment and posting messages such as “242 to the world” in honour of her trailblazing accomplishment.
This image provided by Blue Origin shows from left: Jeff Bezos, Kerianne Flynn, Katy Perry, Lauren Sanchez, Aisha Bowe, Gayle King,
Amanda Nguyen, Sarah Knights, director of Blue Origin's astronaut office, and Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp.
Photo: Blue Origin/AP
AishA BOwe