07212023 NEWS, SPORT AND BUSINESS

‘GIVE ANSWERS ON VIOLENCE PROBES’

Human rights group wants govt to clarify state of investigations

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

HUMAN Rights Bahamas is urging the government to be more forthright about the status of investigations into alleged misconduct by law enforcement officers.

“HRB is calling upon Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe and Minister of Immigration Keith Bell to report to the nation on the progress of investigations into allegations of official violence

against officers who fall within their purview,” the organisation said in a statement yesterday.

“Over the last several months, a number of highly concerning claims of brutality by members of the armed forces have been made public. These include two Haitian barbers allegedly beaten by immigration officers; children in Bimini allegedly beaten by police; and a man hospitalised after being beaten and suffocated in police custody.”

SEE PAGE THREE

MAN KILLED AND TWO ARE HURT IN LATEST SHOOTINGS

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

NEW Providence police are investigating two separate shootings that killed a man and left two others in hospital yesterday.

The first incident happened after 3pm in the Dean’s Alley area off Market Street.

Police said two men were

talking when a white Japanese vehicle pulled up.

“It was reported that a male exited the vehicle and opened fire on both males,” police said. They were later taken to the hospital by a private vehicle. However, one of them died from his injuries –– pushing the country’s murder count to at least 60 for the year.

SEE PAGE THREE

RISE IN ILLNESSES CAUSED BY HEAT

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

HEALTH officials have seen an increase in heatrelated illnesses in recent weeks, with more younger people affected.

Dr Darbrielle HuntBurrows, chief of internal medicine at the Princess Margaret Hospital, called the increase concerning, saying officials are keeping a close eye on the matter.

Local meteorologists have issued heat advisories urging residents to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours because of the high temperatures.

Yesterday, Dr Burrows said doctors had encountered several patients suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Though none required hospitalisation, she said, some needed to be resuscitated.

“We’ve seen more younger persons who have presented and they are presented with minor complaints,” she told The Tribune yesterday. “So these cases we saw within the last two to three weeks and if there were about 30 persons who presented, at least about 10 of those persons were persons presenting with heat-related complaints.”

BELL:

I’LL SPEAK IN HOUSE ON IMMIGRATION QUESTIONS

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings @ tribunemedia.net

IMMIGRATION Minister Keith Bell said he would answer Free National Movement questions on various matters, some controversial, in the House of Assembly next week.

“The only thing I will say in respect to the matters of immigration is that a series of questions have been asked of me in the House of Assembly and it is on Wednesday which is the question time that I will appropriately answer all questions thoroughly, substantively and put this thing to rest once and for all,” he said.

LEGAL ROW FOR BUTLER FAMILY

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

A LEGAL battle has erupted among descendants of Sir Milo Butler, who are locked in a dispute over the economic benefits different family factions have received from Milo B Butler & Sons.

Rise in illnesses caused by heat

“So they were persons who were feeling unwell. They were having headaches. They presented with elevated temperatures. At the time, they had elevated heart rates. So some of these were some of the concerns that they had.”

She said none of the patients suffering from heat illnesses

experienced complications afterwards. “We usually test for complications like kidney injury, heart injuries, those types of things, because one of the other possible, more serious complications is whether people develop kidney injuries, liver injuries, those types of things and so these people would’ve been screened for these type of muscle injuries,” she said.

“There’s a condition called rhabdomyolysis which people can develop as a serious complication of dehydration and none of these persons had any of those more serious complications. They were able to be discharged home.”

Some of the hottest days in the Earth’s history were recorded this month, with experts warning that hotter temperatures could become a continuous problem

because of climate change. Many communities around the world have reported an increase in heat-related illnesses.

PMH officials have not seen the most severe heatrelated illnesses, such as heat strokes.

But, Dr Burrows warned yesterday, only “time will tell”. She urged residents to stay cool and not wait until they’re severely ill to seek

medical care. She also advised people to exercise in well-ventilated areas “because the environment also places people at risk for heatrelated injuries”.

Furthermore, she warned people not to remain in their cars for extended periods.

“We,” she said, “also must be conscious of those populations where persons are at risk because they

themselves are not able to get access to cooling or hydration, and those are the populations of persons who are medically ill, persons who have strokes, persons who have mental illness and they might not physically or mentally be able to access water or cooling and those are persons too who may present with heat-related injuries and that population of persons, we should be concerned about them.”

NATION PREPARES TO SAY FINAL FAREWELL TO DR GAIL SAUNDERS

A STATE-recognised funeral service will be held for Dr Diane Gail Saunders, CB, OBE, today at 11am at Christ Church Cathedral.

The celebrated Bahamian historian, who was last year named as a companion to the Order of The Bahamas, died on June 30 aged 79. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said her death “was a great loss to our nation”.

A viewing in repose for the general public was held yesterday - with a host of senior figures paying tribute.

The funeral service will be broadcast live on ZNS.

A cremation will be held at a later date.

Photos: Austin Fernander

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis and former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis signing the book of condolences.

FNM leader Michael Pintard and former Prime Minister Perry Christie sharing a lighter moment on the day.

FORMER Prime Minister Perry Christie pays his respect to the family of Dr Gail Saunders and, with Dame Marguerite Pindling, is pictured during the viewing yesterday.

‘Give answers on violence probes’

“It is unacceptable in a democracy such as ours to have officers of the law who believe they can take the law into their own hands.

Might does not make right, and even the appearance that armed agents of the state now believe it is acceptable to attack and harm civilians should alarm and disgust all right-thinking members of the public.”

“Official silence on these matters is unacceptable. HRB calls upon the Minister of National Security, the commissioner of police, the Director of immigration, and the minister of immigration, to speak publicly

about what is being done to deal with the growing impression that citizens and residents of this country need to live in fear of those trusted to protect us.”

The Tribune reported on Monday that more than

four months after two immigration officers allegedly assaulted two Haitian barbers in an attack that went viral, Mr Bell said the investigation was still ongoing.

Last week, this newspaper also reported there

BELL: I’LL SPEAK IN HOUSE ON IMMIGRATION QUESTIONS

Mr Bell has been in the crosshairs of the FNM recently. Last month, the opposition thrashed him for overseeing a citizenship oath ceremony at a funeral. This week, FNM Leader Michael Pintard said Mr Bell superseded senior immigration officials on January 17 to force the release of dozens of Chinese nationals working illegally at the British Colonial Hotel.

Mr Pintard has submitted 14 questions for Mr Bell to answer in the House of Assembly.

The questions include: how many citizenship applications have been approved since the Privy Council’s ruling, and how many persons are of Haitian origin?

Mr Pintard has also asked: “Will the honourable Minister Bell provide the information on the process to audit current work permit holders and scrutinise the visa granting process?

“Will the honourable Minister Bell advise this honourable House what measures will be taken to develop a regularised means of migration from Haiti?

“Will the honourable Minister Bell advise this honourable House why government officials, law enforcement, and land inspectors aren’t in place to prevent further construction of illegal structures?

“Will the honourable Minister Bell advise this honourable House on the steps the government has taken to stop the ongoing construction of illegal structures?

“Will the honourable Minister Bell advise if he gave directives for Chinese workers, who were employed in the British Colonial Hotel, to be released after they were found to be in breach of the Bahamian labour laws? Please indicate the justification for such interference into the work of immigration officers.

“Will the honourable Minister Bell provide the breakdown of persons who were granted citizenship since September 2021?

“Will the honourable Minister Bell advise how many persons were sworn in as citizens outside the precincts of the Ministry of Immigration and where?”

has been no meaningful update from police about its investigation after a police officer allegedly beat and bruised several Bimini primary school students more than four months ago.

MAN KILLED AND TWO ARE HURT IN LATEST SHOOTINGS

“The first victim who suffered gunshot injuries to the upper torso, back and right arm remains in stable condition.”

Nearly an hour later, police received reports of another shooting in the Quarry Mission Road area.

“Preliminary reports confirmed the victim was standing on the street when he was approached by occupants of a champagne colored Nissan vehicle who discharged a firearm at him, resulting in him receiving gunshot injuries to both legs,” police said.

The victim was taken to hospital where he remains listed in stable condition.

POLICE PROBE DROWNING OF AMERICAN MAN

POLICE in New Providence are investigating the drowning death of a 46-year-old male of Pennsylvania, USA.

The incident reportedly occurred shortly after 11am yesterday. The man died after he began experiencing difficulties while swimming in waters near Blue Lagoon Island. The victim was retrieved from the water in an unresponsive state and transported to Princess Margaret Hospital for further medical attention but succumbed a short time later.

GARY Philius and Wilfort Senatés, pictured outside the barber shop where they work. Inset is a screenshot from a video showing the incident.

Photo: Moise Aimsial from page one

from page one

from page one

IMMIGRATION Minister Keith Bell.

CHARGED WITH BAIL VIOLATION AFTER MURDER ACCUSATION - AND GRANTED BAIL AGAIN

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN on bail for murder who allegedly failed to charge his electronic monitoring device was granted bail again yesterday.

Magistrate Shaka Serville charged Kevin Ramsey, 30, with eight counts of violation of bail conditions.

Ryzard Humes represented the accused.

The Supreme Court had granted Ramsey bail after he was charged with allegedly murdering Patrick Thompson on April 21, 2017, outside a car wash on Market Street.

Ramsey was also charged with the attempted murders of Terrance Rigby and police constable 3825 Hall during the same incident.

Ramsey allegedly failed to charge his EMD eight times between April 2 and June 6. After pleading not guilty to the charges, he was granted $5,000 bail with one or two sureties. Under the bail conditions, he is mandated to follow a 7pm to 6am residential curfew and must sign in at the Carmichael Road Police Station every Monday, Wednesday and Friday by 7pm. His trial will begin on September 29.

RELIEF FOR 23-YEAR-OLD CLEARED OF ARMED ROBBERY

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A YOUNG man breathed a sigh of relief after he was cleared of armed robbery charges in the Supreme Court yesterday.

Justice Guillimina Archer-Minns oversaw the trial of Bradshaw Demeritte, 23, who was charged with armed robbery and receiving. Demeritte was found not guilty of robbing Linda Poitier of her black handbag at

Executive joins Bonefish and Tarpon Trust Board

gunpoint on November 11, 2019, in New Providence. The bag was said to contain Ms Poitier’s bank cards, cell phone and $235 in cash.

Calvin Seymour represented Demeritte. Uel Johnson was the prosecutor.

After reviewing the evidence, a nine-person jury returned a unanimous not guilty verdict on both charges. Before he was released from custody, Demeritte told a tearful relative in court: “I’m coming home.”

TWO JAILED FOR HOUSEBREAKING

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

TWO men were sentenced to two years in prison after they were found guilty of housebreaking in New Providence earlier this year.

Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain tried Marc Semelean, 42, and Jean Mifort, 46, on housebreaking charges.

The pair broke into the residence of Tavallia Dean on May 4 and stole close to $1,000 of the woman’s property.

After being found guilty of the offence, the pair was sentenced to two years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. Two other men were

granted bail after they were accused of a separate robbery earlier this month.

Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr charged Duran

Horton, 40, and Navardo

Rolle, 31, with robbery.

The duo allegedly robbed Mylanne Dumercy of $2,155 on July 13 in New Providence.

Both accused men pleaded not guilty to the charge. Horton was granted bail at $1,500. Rolle was granted bail at $1,200 under the condition he obey a nightly residential curfew and be fitted with a monitoring device. He is also expected to sign in at the Elizabeth Estates Police Station every Monday, Wednesday and Friday by 7pm. The trial begins on September 5.

18 MONTHS IN JAIL OVER GUN

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was sentenced to 18 months in prison after admitting to having an unlicenced gun on Hospital Lane earlier this week.

Senior Magistrate Derence Rolle Davis charged Kevin Hepburn, 45, with possession of an unlicenced firearm and possession of ammunition.

Police reportedly

observed Hepburn acting suspiciously on Hospital Lane and South Street on July 17. A search of Hepburn’s person uncovered a black Taurus G2C 9mm pistol with the serial number ACH124872. The weapon was also found with six rounds of 9mm ammunition.

Hepburn pleaded guilty to the offence. He is also to pay a fine of $3,000 or risk an additional six months in prison.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that FRITHO WILFRID LOUIS of #114 Kitchener Avenue, Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 21st day of July, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that LARY TOUSSAINT of Balfour Avenue, New Providence, Bahamas, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 14th day of July, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

A SENIOR Atlantis executive has joined the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust as a board member.

Bahamian executive Vaughn Roberts, the senior vice president for government affairs and special projects at Atlantis, has joined the trust’s board of directors as the international non-profit organisation continues to strengthen efforts to restore and conserve coastal flats.

Mr Roberts joins the BTT board with more than 25 years of corporate leadership experience in the areas of government affairs, finance, and management of multi-faceted projects.

He said: “Atlantis and flats fishing are two cornerstones of the Bahamian tourism product and we are excited to be allies in efforts to preserve and protect our natural wonders. I am honored to join the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust board and to support the organisation’s important mission to conserve marine habitats here in The Bahamas and throughout the Caribbean.

“The importance of BTT’s work to identify, research and conserve shallow water habitats essential to our fisheries and economy cannot be overstated. Atlantis is proud to support the current mangrove restoration project as well as the remarkable past research that focused on bonefish spawning.”

Mr Roberts also serves as chairman of the board of Friends of the Arts in The Bahamas Inc and on the boards of the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, the Bahamas Hotel Industry Management Pension Fund, the Charitable Arts Foundation, and the Downtown Nassau Partnership.

“We are honored to welcome Vaughn to the board of directors,” said Jim McDuffie, BTT president and CEO. “His leadership, knowledge and commitment to the cause will greatly benefit our mission at a pivotal moment in The Bahamas.”

Mr McDuffie added: “Vaughn has the relationships and passion to be a crucial asset to all of our conservation efforts in The Bahamas and the region – those that are currently in operation

and those which we hope to launch in the future.”

BTT has partnered for many years with a number of Bahamian conservation groups, including the Bahamas National Trust (BNT), whose new executive director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle spoke at the organisation’s recent board meeting and 10th annual Florida Keys dinner and awards ceremony, to promote mangrove restoration across The Bahamas.

In her remarks to a room of over 300 BTT supporters, she said: “In reflecting on the past 15 years of the partnership between BNT & BTT and all of the great things we did together, from conducting research to inform new protected area designations, to supporting flats conservation educational programmes, to restoring mangroves in heavily degraded and impacted by major hurricanes, to the reopening of blocked creeks that supports the fly-fishing industry - I am more than hopeful for the future.”

Another key initiative for BTT is the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance (BMA), a new multi-sector coalition dedicated to protecting and restoring mangrove habitats across the archipelago. Announced on Earth Day 2023, the BMA’s other founding members are local nonprofits the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) and Waterkeepers Bahamas (WKB).

UNIVERSITY OFFERS MENTAL HEALTH QUALIFICATION

THE University of The Bahamas said it would offer a master’s programme in mental health and school counselling, “areas where there is a clear and present need”.

“Recognising the pressing need for qualified mental health professionals, the University of The Bahamas (UB) is actively contributing to this crucial fight as The Bahamas is taking a significant step towards addressing mental health and psychosocial issues,” UB said in a statement. “The aim is to produce highly skilled mental health and school counselling professionals to offer comprehensive care and treatment. Graduates will be able to work in diverse settings, including hospitals, mental health treatment facilities and schools.

Programme coordinator Dr Detra Bethell reportedly said: “University of The Bahamas is dedicated to nation building and meeting the needs of The Bahamas. One objective of the recent Mental Health Bill 2022 is to ‘facilitate the provision of comprehensive

NOTICE

mental health care and treatment in each community throughout The Bahamas’. The university has heard this need and has developed a programme to facilitate the training of qualified mental health professionals who are equipped to provide comprehensive, evidenced-based, culturally relevant mental health care across the country.”

Dr Thalia Micklewhite, dean of the College of Social and Education Studies at UB, added: “With the increase in mental health issues in populations across the world since COVID and [Hurricane] Dorian in our own Bahamaland, the need for trained mental health counsellors has increased exponentially. Having been integrally involved in the approval of the programme, I know that it is of the highest standards and will have experienced and skilled facilitators to produce the finest graduates.”

“More importantly, I am delighted that the University of The Bahamas has embraced and delivered on the

NOTICE is hereby given that PATRICIA MARINA FOUNTAIN of P. O. Box N-1092, Cayview Lane, West Bay Street, New Providence, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 14th day of July 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that MIKEY ORNIS of Cooper’s Town, Abaco, Bahamas, is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 14th day of July, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

challenge to meet the pressing educational needs of the country. We will produce highly skilled school counsellors for our children and mental health counsellors for the overall wellbeing of the nation.”

UB said the counselling programmes follow rigorous international standards and guidelines of the USbased Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programmes (CACREP).

“As it pursues its national development mandate, UB has been developing academic programmes to increase capacity in many sectors; counselling is one of them,” UB’s press statement said.

“Students will be engaged in intellectual discourse and innovative content delivery. A cohort model will foster strong relationships among students to support their academic growth and professional development. They will also benefit from highly qualified and experienced faculty with backgrounds in aligned areas.”

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that CHALINE DUVILIER of Exuma, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 21th day of July 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that KEEANA GREAVES of Amberjack Street, Freeport, Grand Bahama applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 21th day of July 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

VAUGHN ROBERTS

THE AQUARIUM at Atlantis.

Christie: Efforts to solve Haiti crisis are a ‘work in progress’

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings @ tribunemedia.net

FORMER Prime Minister Perry Christie, a member of a group of former regional leaders trying to resolve the crisis in Haiti, said efforts remain a

“work in progress”.

Mr Christie, former St Lucia Prime Minister Kenny Anthony and former Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding are part of the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group (EPG). The group has been meeting with relevant stakeholders

in Haiti to facilitate a Haitian-led solution to the country’s crises.

“The group was appointed by CARICOM Heads of Government last May to initiate and oversee the community’s provision of good offices support in designated

PINDER: WE’LL BE OFF EU BLACKLIST IN NOVEMBER

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

ATTORNEY General

Ryan Pinder said The Bahamas would be removed from the European Union’s blacklist in November. In the Senate yesterday, he supported Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ remark that the criteria to blacklist the country was “unfairly applied to us”.

“As we know, the financial services industry is an industry that is highly competitive where our competitors are always looking for an advantage over us, where the goalposts move on a continual basis,” Mr Pinder said.

“It is an industry where we have foreign governments and multilateral institutions doing what they can to discredit our jurisdiction and to cause for what I

call inequitable determinations, blacklists, and other opinions that they may have about us even though we are a country who achieves greater things than them, who has better compliance regimes than them, and who have better innovation than them.”

“The prime minister also was able to give a convincing argument on how the activities of countries and multilateral organisations like the European Union through their discriminatory treatment of countries like The Bahamas in financial services matters has a direct adverse implication on the climate crisis affects on small island developing states.”

Mr Pinder said the country cannot recover and rebuild in the face of the climate crisis if the European Union’s penalties affect the basic “tenants of reinsurance and insurance” in this

Death

priority areas, including security, governance, the electoral process, and long-term development planning and advocacy. They will also liaise with key international partners and agencies,” CARICOM said in a statement.

Yesterday, Mr Christie

said the matter is complex.

“It’s difficult and has to be understood that we have been invited by CARICOM to assist the Haitian stakeholders towards making decisions that will secure the country and provide a path to elections, and once you are able to do that

then you are then moving towards the democratisation of Haiti that everyone is waiting for,” he said.

He expressed concern about the prevalence of violence and gangs in the community.

He said meetings are expected to resume today.

AC CHALLENGES AT JUSTICE CENTRE ‘BEING ADDRESSED’

country.

“Things have to change,” he said. “There has to be a holistic view on how this treatment by big economies who cause climate crisis and discriminate against us in the financial services industry affect us small countries.”

“It’s unfair, and one thing that this government will do in the face of the big boys in the room, we will punch above our weight. We will make our case known at the highest levels and we will solicit the support of our colleagues, both in the region and worldwide to demonstrate that we are equal to them and we should be treated as such.”

The Bahamas was returned to the EU blacklist last year. The EU said it is concerned the country attracts profits without real activity, noting there is no corporate income tax here.

Notice For

Shirley Theresa Culmer, 86 of Freeport,Grand Bahama, Bahamas and formerly of Black Point, Exuma died at the Princess Margaret Hospital on Tuesday, July 18th, 2023.

She was predeceased by her daughters: Florines & Constance Smith; brothers: Tom, Cecil & Joe Smith.

She is survived by her sons: Kingsley Saunders, Ivan Shepherd, Kevin Brown, Bradley & Calvin Culmer; daughters: Monique Smith & Karen Culmer; sisters: Icele & Inez Smith; brothers: Albert & Wendel Smith; others: friends & relatives from: Black Point Cay, Staniel Cay, Exuma & The Exuma Cays and a host off other relatives and friends too numerous too mention.

Arrangements for the funeral service are being finalized and details will be announced at a future date.

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

SUPREME Court

Deputy Registrar Renaldo Toote said the air-conditioning challenges that prompted workers to walk out of the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre in Grand Bahama are being addressed. The AC systems were dysfunctional last week. Some employees reacted to

this by staying outside.

Mr Toote, acting director of court services, said: “We are fully aware of the air conditioning challenges at the Garnet Levarity Justice Centre and have been actively trying to resolve them.

“A local service provider had been engaged, but they faced challenges in fulfilling the contractual terms. We expect a resolution to be achieved soon.”

The justice centre in

Freeport underwent $2m in renovations under the Minnis administration. The building houses five courts. Staff of the Registrar Generals Office in Freeport have also experienced problems. Staff there are concerned about potential mould issues. Last Wednesday, the registrar general went to Freeport to inspect the office space.

DEMONSTRATORS fill the streets during a protest to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, yesterday.

Photo: Odelyn Joseph/AP

The Tribune Limited

Solutions not easy to find for Haiti

FORMER Prime Minister Perry

Christie – part of the Eminent Persons Group despatched to Haiti in search of a solution for the ongoing crisis there –had little in the way of positive news to report yesterday.

He said that the search for a solution was a “work in progress” – though quite how much progress there has actually been is hard to discern.

A statement from that group – which includes Mr Christie alongside former St Lucia Prime Minister Kenny Anthony and former Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding – offered little further sign of a solution being in sight.

The statement spoke of the group having put an emphasis on “discussing process in order to put in place a mechanism that would facilitate progress taking into account the inherent difficulties of negotiations involving a large number of protagonists. The objective was attained to some extent”.

What appears to have been successful is, in principle, reducing the size of the group of representatives to a more manageable size – rather than trying to negotiate with a crowd.

Other positives apparently included broad agreement on enlarging the High Transition Council committed to by Haitian Prime Minister Dr Ariel Henry, and “greater cohesion on security, the issue being not the need for security assistance but what form it would take”.

This comes as the National Human Rights Defence Network warned last week about an upsurge in killings and kidnappings in Haiti – while bodies have been openly burned in the streets as part of vigilante actions in the nation.

Journalists have been kidnapped, killings have been rampant, and gangs are accused of breaking into a hospital in Port-au-Prince to steal medical supplies and abducting at least six security guards.

Last month, criminals set fire to the building which housed the Jamaican consulate in Haiti.

Doctors Without Borders suspended treatment at one of their hospitals after

20 armed men burst into an operating room and took a patient.

Earlier this month, UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres called for an international force to help combat Haiti’s gangs and to restore security. One UN expert estimates up to 2,000 extra anti-gang police officers are needed.

Haiti’s Prime Minister has been calling for such a force since last October – but there seems little sign of boots on the ground in the nation any time soon.

Instead, another visit is planned by the Eminent Persons Group, and more talks to go with it.

The repeated mantra we hear is that it must be a Haitian-led solution – but Haiti is short of elected leaders, and quite where the solution will come from is a challenge, to say the least.

Last week, the UN Security Council gave Mr Guterres 30 days to come up with options to tackle the situation – while giving authority for extra training for Haitian police and up to 70 UN advisers to scale up support and training for those officers.

Meanwhile, the UN’s World Food Programme has announced it is facing a shortage of funds – and won’t be able to help 100,000 people in Haiti who urgently need help.

It is little surprise that Mr Christie and his colleagues have not yet found a solution for a crisis of this magnitude – because what solution is there to be had?

Haiti is facing one of its most challenging moments – in a history that has been filled with them.

Failing to find a solution is not an option for Haiti itself – or for the countries in the region who will be affected too if the state collapses any further.

If we fear there is high migration now, that will be a fraction of the exodus that will take place if Haiti has no stable future as a state.

So back for more discussions – but there must be positive action too.

People are starving. People are being murdered. People are suffering.

We talk of being a Christian nation. Our neighbour needs help.

Years go by and still no ambassador

EDITOR, The Tribune.

OUR closest neighbour has not had a full accredited Ambassador as they would say “in-country” for over nine plus years basically since the last much liked Ambassador Nicole Avant left.

One-two different Presidents nominated certainly political nominees for the appointment - one the nomination lapsed and now under President Biden we have another - if that is not voted on the upcoming US election might come and go and the US will have a new President and, guess what, the US will still not have an Ambassador to The Bahamas.... Then 10 years and

counting.

Does it really matter?

The Bahamas Embassy has been well covered by very efficient and professional career State Department Officers - an Ambassador, the norm for The Bahamas a political nominee - a person who donated $ thousands to the sitting Presidents’ campaign can usually pick up the telephone and call the President (yes, a difference).

If The Bahamas is strategically so important why didn’t two Presidents

simply nominate a Career State Department Officer as Ambassador years ago - surely nine plus years without a full Ambassador is unprecedented? Got to wait till a political nominee is successfully approved in the Senate. As foreign things go doesn’t show too much real interest suggests of the US.... Bahamas we can deal with them with a career Officer no need of a full Ambassador... so be it then? But please don’t criticise who we talk to other than the US.

D DUNCANSON Nassau, July 20, 2023.

Ministry, don’t count your chickens...

EDITOR, The Tribune.

IT’S all right Ministry of Agriculture promoting backyard growing of vegetables, but the rearing of animals is another issue. First if you live in a subdivision 100% there is a Covenant zooming does not permit it so Agriculture must check subdivisions and ensure there is no livestock such as chickens, goats, etc. If the home owner is selling his products from his

property does he have a re-zoning approval of Town Planning? Doubt it at all.

Chicken — Egg production is being promoted but the Ministry must direct you can’t raise chickens anywhere if you are in a residential area not allowed... it’s unhygienic and you will pollute the water table.

I write because I looked over my neighbour’s fence and see a new wooden hutch no chickens as yet — I enquired of the neighbour what does he intend

doing? He confirmed he will be getting four-layers. Of course I told him he will be in breach of his property Covenant — Town Planning zoning and Health rules. Ministry should not be promoting without direction and clear instructions where having chicken layers and livestock is permitted and where it isn’t.

W MINNIS Nassau, July 19, 2023.

TRADITIONAL dancers performing on the pitch before the Women’s World Cup soccer match between Australia and Ireland at Stadium Australia in Sydney, Australia, on Thursday.

Photo: Mark Baker/AP

A new starting pointlong-lasting friendship

By DAI QINGLI,

THIS is one of the best times to be in The Bahamas. Celebrations for the 50th Independence have been in full swing, building up to the magic moment of July 10, 2023. From Clifford Park to Government House, from Junkanoo parades on Bay Street to cheering crowds across family islands, from smiling faces to tears of joy, the sea of happiness and pride immersed not just from every Bahamian, but also all those who were on this historic scene.

There’s every reason for Bahamians to be proud of what this country has achieved over the past half century, from slavery to a bloodless revolution, and to remarkable political stability. Its economic transformation is stunning, “from a sleepy fishing village to the buoyant tourist mecca of the Americas and the Caribbean”, as a letter to the editor writes.

This nation is also made proud by its talented sons and daughters in numerous areas such as arts, music, and sports.

These achievements are a credit to the hard work, ingenuity and sacrifices of generations of Bahamians.

China was represented at the celebrations by Mr Xiao Jie, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, who was the highest ranking official to visit The Bahamas in more than a decade. The delegation travelled half the world to convey sincere congratulations from the Chinese government and people to the government and people of The Bahamas.

Apart from official meetings with Bahamian leaders, the delegation was deeply impressed by The Bahamas’s global leadership in cruise tourism and tourism infrastructure. They also enormously enjoyed their cultural experiences at the Junkanoo Museum and the National Art Gallery.

The vice chairman’s visit is testimony to a strong and growing diplomatic relationship between China and The Bahamas based on equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit.

As The Bahamas’s founding Prime Minister Lynden Pindling noted at the United Nations in September 1973, “We wish to enjoy the friendship and benefit from the association, wisdom and experience of those who wish to be our friends and respect our freedom as we want and know it.”

China respects the choices and way of life of the Bahamian people. We never passed judgement, imposed our will, or attached political

conditions to bilateral cooperation, which led to a range of flagship projects such as the Thomas Robinson Stadium, the Airport Gateway, the North Abaco Port, the Freeport Container Port, the Pointe, and the Baha Mar resort which would not have been completed without Chinese investment.

At times of need, China is always ready to help, such as the 13 batches of medical supplies delivered to The Bahamas during the pandemic. We believe that’s what friends do.

Our relationship has also been made stronger by the growing friendship and mutual cultural appreciation between our peoples. The latest example of this was the successful acrobatic performances by Hunan Province as a special gift for the 50th Independence of The Bahamas.

Above all, the crucial political foundation of our relations lies in The Bahamas’s adherence to the one China principle.

Taiwan has been an integral part of China since ancient times. The island was colonised by Japan for 50 years since 1895, and restored to China after Japan’s surrender in 1945. After civil war broke out in China, the Kuomintang group retreated to Taiwan in 1949, perpetuating the separation between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait till this day.

Taiwan is a profoundly emotional issue for any Chinese. No other aspiration

unites the 1.4 billion Chinese more strongly together than achieving complete reunification of the motherland, and no government in China would ever be able to bear the cost of losing Taiwan.

The Bahamas, being an archipelago of more than 700 islands, understands the importance of national unity. This country, who reenacts the lowering of the Union Jack and the raising of the Bahamian flag at midnight on July 10th every year, could well imagine the emotions of every Chinese about Hong Kong’s handover, which was marked by exactly the same ritual of Union Jack being lowered and the Chinese flag hoisted at midnight on July 1st, 1997.

In the communique on the establishment of diplomatic relations signed with China in May 1997, The Bahamas recognised that there is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is a province of the People’s Republic of China. Such commitments have enabled healthy and stable development of bilateral relations for the past 26 years.

Recent years have witnessed both further strengthening of the international community’s consensus on one China and rising separatist adventurism by Taiwan aided by the United States.

More countries, including those in Central America, are setting up diplomatic relations with China. Only 13 countries

in the world now maintain so-called diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The root cause of recent tensions in the Taiwan Straits lies in the Taiwan authorities’ unscrupulous drive for independence and the United States’ attempt to use Taiwan for containing China.

While the US pays lip service to one China, it has moved to upgrade official exchanges and substantive relations with Taiwan; while saying no to Taiwan independence, the US has kept selling sophisticated weapons to Taiwan and engaged in a dangerous show of military muscle in the Taiwan Straits. While constantly challenging one China, the US tried to spin the narrative by labeling China “assertive” and accusing China of changing the status quo.

China has every right to protect its own sovereignty and territorial integrity. How can China be the provoking party when it was the US who came all the way to create trouble on China’s doorstep?

Some in the United

States and the West got China’s strategic intentions fundamentally wrong. Chinese leaders have on many occasions stated that China has no intention to challenge or replace the United States.

China’s development is to fulfill people’s aspirations for a better life and increase their well-being through a Chinese path to modernisation.

Instead of pursuing hegemony, China’s foreign policy aims to create an enabling regional and global environment for China’s development at home, safeguard China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity, and contribute to global peace and development.

China is not a threat, but an economic opportunity. Even with severely strained relations, China-US trade reached a record 700 billion dollars last year sustaining over a million jobs in the US.

China’s pursuit of “Belt and Road” cooperation for the past ten years has mobilized close to a trillion dollars in investment,

created 420,000 jobs and lifted almost 40 million people out of poverty in participating countries.

Sadly, some in the United States still cling to a zero sum, black-or-white mentality and are driven by emotion rather than reason, fear rather than self-confidence. They fail to see that given the complementarity and interdependence between China and the West, no amount of pressurising will change the larger historical trend and decoupling and de-risking will only end up harming their own interests.

China has no geopolitical agenda in developing relations with The Bahamas. Like any other country, The Bahamas has the right and the capacity to develop its relations with China and with its neighbours at the same time.

We have no doubt in our mind that beautiful Bahamaland will march on Forward Upward Onward Together to an even brighter future. China will remain a friend to The Bahamas as the country sets sail for the next 50 years.

Chinese Ambassador to The Bahamas

XIAO JIE, vice-chairman of the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China, accompanied by China’s Ambassador to The Bahamas Dai Qingli during a tour of the Junkanoo Museum at the Nassau Cruise Port.

Photo: Anthon Thompson/BIS

Books to help enhance your leadership skills

IN this, our 50th year of independence, we have hopes for increased blessings, unity, and prosperity. We also sense that we have more work to do to build an inclusive nation that embodies equal opportunities, social cohesion, and full participation. While it is fitting to celebrate leaders who continue to safeguard and advance our national interests, it is also valuable to accept that humans build imperfect societal systems which can create local challenges. In this time of national reflection on our country’s triumphs and possibilities, we should all consider how we can work toward social impact to address these issues.

There is no better place for us to get to work than within civil society or what some may call the third sector. When we typically think of the third sector, formally organised local non-profit organisations come to mind. However, we should also consider how many of us participate in grassroots and informal ways to support our communities. If you are doing work that uplifts your community, seeking to make it better whether through full-time employment in a non-profit or as a volunteer,

By Dr Kim Williams-Pulfer PhD

neighbourhood or student leader, board member, or donor — your efforts are needed in a world of increasing inequality, where the looming dangers of climate change, and other existential events also threaten our societal stability.

That said, in addition to a desire to help others, community leadership requires organisational

and community development skills, a broad knowledge base, and emotional intelligence. Our striving foremothers and forefathers could not predict our current world, where we have rapid access to information. Today, we are responsible for taking advantage of the proliferation of knowledge and using it to grow our community leadership practices. Our access to rapid-fire technology can also make it challenging to assess fact from fiction or knowledge from entertainment. One of the ways in which we can wade through the cacophony of information is to slow down and value knowledge that requires us to identify our roots, understand nuance, enhance our awareness of global challenges, and learn from successful, inspirational leaders. Well-written and researched books of diverse genres can reveal new facts and perspectives in ways that social media cannot afford. If you see yourself as a community leader or changemaker, I recommend a few books to enhance your community leadership skills.

Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson (Penguin Random House)

You may know of Bryan Stevenson’s story because of the recently released film of the same title with astounding performances by Jamie Foxx and Michael B Jordan. I also encourage you to read the book to understand Stevenson’s journey to becoming an inspirational leader.

Stevenson traces his early days in starting the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) in 1989, headquartered in Montgomery, Alabama. As a thirty-year-old recent graduate from Harvard Law School, he was compelled to use his legal education

to support people who had no or limited access to legal representation and were unjustly treated by the legal system. The book weaves US social and legal history, statistics, and personal stories to show us how he painstakingly built the organisation and developed programmes and practices addressing the injustices his clients experienced. It also covers how Stevenson’s tenacity allowed him to use his legal prowess and skills as a fundraiser and advocate to draw people to his cause.

Stevenson explains how he built a network of donors and supporters who recognized that social change is arduous, there are no quick fixes, and it requires immense sweat equity and robust financial support. His philosophy of life and leadership also challenges my views on mercy, especially for those that society deems undeserving of our care, even as I extol the virtues of forgiveness. Today the organisation has grown tremendously, and EJI offers prison re-entry and poverty alleviation programmes. Recently, it established two acclaimed museums that compel visitors to contemplate the troubling aspects of one’s national history.

This year, Stevenson was awarded the US National Humanities Medal presented by President Joe Biden, noting that he is “an advocate fighting tirelessly for the poor, incarcerated, and condemned, [following] the Book of Micah’s instruction to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.” Just Mercy presents a story of third-sector leadership worthy of our attention.

Race and Class in the Colonial Bahamas 18801960, Dr Gail Saunders (University of Florida Press)

We must find new ways to celebrate the bevy of Bahamian writers, including scholars, poets, playwrights, journalists, and essayists. Queen among this esteemed group is historian and archivist Dr Gail Saunders, who reigns as one of the most prolific. I am honoured every time

I cite Dr Saunders in my

work. During my years writing my dissertation, her most recently published book substantially guided my thinking. The book explains how racial and class formations shaped our country and documents our challenges in becoming an increasingly equitable society.

While the US has the likes of Bryan Stevenson and others who have fought for fairness, Dr Saunders depicts the countless efforts of Bahamian individuals and organisations who, throughout history, notably embodied the principles of justice and liberation.

The book recalls familiar and unfamiliar names like Sir Lynden Pindling, Sir Randol Fawkes, Dr Doris Johnson, and Dr Claudius. R Walker, The Citizens’ Committee, and The Mother’s Club.

If you want to know how Bahamians contested inequality both in the Bahamas and in the United States, discover when Marcus Garvey visited Nassau in 1928 or how leaders over subsequent years fought for greater inclusion in society, Dr Saunders’ book is critical. The saying, “You cannot know where you are going until you know where you have been,” is often quoted almost to the point of hollow rhetoric. Dr Saunders offers rich substance for that axiom. This book is fundamental in understanding the challenges and triumphs of nationbuilding and development. Even posthumously, Dr Saunders’ research and compelling writing continue to guide us. May she rest in peace and power.

The Chosen Place, The Timeless People by Paule Marshall (Penguin Random House)

Many magazine leadership reading lists recommend the single genre of management books. I recommend the value of fiction, which allows us to luxuriate in language, plot, and setting while promoting empathy and cultural and social awareness.

Caribbean fiction writers have made substantial contributions to the canon of literary excellence. American-Barbadian writer Paule Marshall was one of those prolific writers documenting the Caribbean experience.

The Chosen Place, published in the 1960s, is set on the fictional Bourne Island and contains themes that are still relevant today. When a US-based philanthropic foundation comes to the island to manage a research project that aims to support the island’s residents, contested ideas about how to create social change are fiercely debated and challenged. The novel highlights how centering the histories and experiences of the communities we aim to serve is just as valuable as the resources we employ to develop programmes for those communities. Along with these challenging themes, Marshall presents a beautifully written story that should resonate with anyone who loves island life.

I hope these recommendations will spur leaders to think broadly about how books can help transform outmoded or ignorant assessments of our human experience. They provide us with compelling insights to address social problems armed with meaningful evidence, beauty, and truthtelling. Finally, reading does not have to be a solo practice. We can find innovative and collaborative ways to discuss books through clubs, lists, drives, and donations. In this season of promise, I wish you “happy reading” with literary works that I believe can lead to transformative leadership and greater personal impact.

• Dr Kim Williams Pulfer is a board director of One Eleuthera Foundation. Established in 2012, the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) is a non-profit organisation located in Rock Sound, Eleuthera. For more information, visit www.oneeleuthera.org or email info@oneeleuthera. org. The Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) is the first and only postsecondary, non-profit education and training institution and social enterprise on Eleuthera. CTI operates a student training campus in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, with a 16-room training hotel, restaurant and farm. For more information about CTI’s programmes, email: info@ oneeleuthera.org.

of One Eleuthera Foundation

DR KIM WILLIAMS-PULFER PHD BRYAN STEVENSON

DR Gail Saunders pictured in 2016 presenting a copy of her book, Race and Class in the Colonial Bahamas, 1880-1960 to then Prime Minister Perry Christie.

Photo: Peter Ramsay/BIS

DOWNTOWN DREAMS – it’s more than buildings, a living city means people living in it

ATLANTA. Baltimore. Buffalo. Chicago. From Cartagena, Colombia to Seoul, South Korea, from the steel capital of Pittsburgh to the motor city of America, cities across the globe have found ways to reinvent themselves, dusting off industrial pasts and emerging as vibrant urban scenes with a future.

What did those cities, some close to utter physical decay and social and economic despair, have in common that can work for Nassau? What lessons can we learn from others while maintaining what’s distinctively ours?

First, if it’s any consolation, just about every one of those dramatic turnaround stories begins with a city down on its heels with a smattering of empty storefronts, falling rental rates and shorter business hours.

Failure begets failure, crime moves in and residents move out, seeking safer ground, abandoning once desirable downtown living quarters and a place that cannot find a way to live up to its past.

You could argue that Bay Street is not yet dead, just a patient on life support, buoyed by thousands of cruise passengers who flood the sidewalks making their way to Junkanoo Beach or the Straw Market, and caregivers like John Bull and Coin of the Realm who maintain the dream of higher standards one day paying off.

Sadly, the spirit of historic Nassau has all but vanished, sliding further south to West Hill Street, NAGB, John Watling’s, a few churches.

The trajectory is predictable - a city on its last legs and lungs attracts stakeholders who, having heard years of warning, gather and rush to the rescue of the dying patient.

In June Jacobs’ classic treatise on the life cycle of urban spaces, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, the title says it all.

Here we find ourselves, 30 years after we began talking seriously about the need for preservation and municipal management, 25 years after we commissioned the Historic Nassau Study that told us to move shipping off Bay Street, to envision the harbour as our highway and to preserve the architectural treasures we have through incentives, 20-some years after we created a tourism police division and talked about a BID (Business Investment District).

Here we are, at last, with the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation taking steps to rescue the patient before it is strangled to death by an overdose of cheap t-shirt shops and cheaper souvenirs.

We kept the patient alive, breathing, but not thriving. So as we stand at this promising junction, there is much to learn from those places that were in far worse condition than Nassau, urban areas abandoned where lives were discarded along with trash, back alleys and abandoned places so economically and socially challenged that police avoided them after dark.

Nassau is in far better shape than many cities around the world that yanked themselves out of a nightmare and found the daylight.

That doesn’t mean the work will be easy or the magic happen overnight but for those of us who left a part of our heart in its architectural wonder

Nassau, its never-to-bereplicated details of leaded glass, coral rock walls, second story lofts, A-lined warehouse roofs and the arms of its madeira trees, we know a new downtown is waiting to be born. Downtown starts with people who live there. And here is where the story starts. It starts with people who live there.

last remaining architectural residential treasures downtown, needs a new roof but a new roof is expensive and so are real property taxes and other expenses. We cannot risk the loss or deterioration of this last east of East Street treasure.

There could be five-year property tax forgiveness for stores on Bay Street that convert upstairs spaces from dusty, hot storage units to contemporary lofts and apartments. Margaritaville and The Pointe are perfect examples of life breeding activity after dark – stroll down the pier in the evening between the two properties and see the action at outdoor cafes, small shops, at the marina.

But the largest potential thrust to bring life to Bay Street lies east of East Street where highrise living can change the future of downtown Nassau from souvenir city to vibrant, pulsating capital of the nation.

community, including provision for upkeep and maintenance. In heat as we have recently endured and are likely to continue to experience, we should invest in a block-wide cooling fountain.

Taxi parking spots need to be reduced in number and more staff parking must be made available south of Shirley Street with trams running downtown employees to offices, restaurants, shops and other businesses or offices. East Hill Street configuration is yet to be announced and may hold the key to double or triple-decker parking.

The Nassau Public Library should be converted to a mini-museum of pirate history once the building, which is a

treasure in danger of dis integration, is properly restored.

Re-creations of historic events should take place for photo opps throughout the historic trail along the city’s streets and side streets.

Once the new American Embassy opens, and one of the most charming streets in the country is no longer closed to the public, Queen Street should be opened up with the steps at the south end leading onto West Hill Street and providing better access to the historic district and NAGB.

Each new movement will trigger another. Residents will want more dining choices, cafes, bookstores, jazz clubs, rake ‘n scrape or an intimate entertainment venue

stool, plucking a guitar. The boardwalk leading from east of town to the Paradise Island bridge should be wide enough for runners and leading west, for cyclists, creating more activity day and evening.

If cities from Seoul, South Korea to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania could do it, so can we. Nassau reborn will never be the Nassau of the past, but we have a chance to make it a Nassau we created for the future, a treasure we celebrate, not one we avoid, a proud centre of commerce for a proud people of The Bahamas.

Next week: what we need to preserve and a new look at Collins House

The dream of a lively, active, bustling downtown is more than buildings whether they are set for demolition or declared the poster child of preservation. It’s the people who make a place.

To make the dream of a new historic Nassau come true, we must create a desire for people to live downtown and we can do that with something we have mastered - incentivising.

The single most basic rule of a success story in downtown revitalisation is residents in the midst of that urban space you want to bring to life. A living city means a city with people living in it. Victoria Court, one of

To make numbers work for any developer or investor even at a mid-price point per unit, exemption to the 4-story limit will have to be granted in exchange for open green space with public able to enjoy a view of the water on either side of the structure.

Current usage of former cargo shipping properties for construction equipment storage is not only not the highest and best use of such property, it deprives the public of any view of the harbour.

Downtowns also require parks and green spaces.

Every high-rise granted a building permit following all stringent environmental (DEPP) procedures must be made to donate green space downtown and a park elsewhere in a

BAY Street (above and left) and the Straw Market (below).

“To make the dream of a new historic Nassau come true, we must create a desire for people to live downtown and we can do that with something we have mastered - incentivising.”

CIVIL SOCIETY BAHAMAS

AS THE Commonwealth of The Bahamas celebrates 50 years of Independence, Civil Society Bahamas (CSB) continues to promote debt management as the key to empowering people and creating economic independence in the country.

CSB is engaged in a series of Debt Management Consultations in conjunction with a Regional and International Partners: the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC), and the Funders Organized for Rights in the Global Economy (FORGE), and Debt Justice UK. These Consultations are as a part of a pilot programme with two other Caribbean countries, with the aim of tackling debt in the region.

President of CSB Dr Anthony Hamilton said: “The Bahamas’ Golden Jubilee is a perfect time to highlight the significance of the role of the people in the governance of their own country.”

He further emphasised: “The continued recognition of the role of the citizenry and residents in governance engagement is critical to participatory governance and strengthening of democracy.

“The civil society sector and Civil Society Bahamas, in particular, also takes this opportunity of the Golden Jubilee to celebrate the impact of tripartite governance as we continue to take responsibility for the road to the next 50 years - forward, upward, onward, together.”

CSB held its third and fourth Debt Management Consultation sessions on June 26. The themes were: “Older Generation Insight: We’ve Conquered this Mountain Before!” and “Anatomy of the Debt: Implications for National Financial Health and Solutions”.

The sessions were held at the University of The Bahamas in the FR Wilson Building and brought together notable Bahamians from a cross section of society, public and private, to provide their input and solutions for debt management in The Bahamas.

The sessions were sponsored in part by AACARI, the Agricultural Alliance of the Caribbean.

As the apex body for civil society organisations or NGOs in the country, Dr Hamilton said

ANTIQUE AUTO CLUB OF THE BAHAMAS

AFTER not being able to hold any Antique Auto Shows for a four-year period due to the COVID pandemic, members of The Antique Auto Club of The Bahamas (AACB) decided this year was time to get started again. Along with settling down to get a show organised, club members decided they should help a well-deserving charity.

The Bahamas Associations For The Physically Disabled (BAPD) was selected to receive full proceeds of the 2023 show, which was held at Arawak Cay, the club’s usual location and had good attendance. Presentation of full proceeds from the Auto Show was recently made at BAPD headquarters.

DISTRICT GRAND LODGE OF BAHAMAS & TURKS

THE District Grand Lodge of Bahamas and Turks participated in literacy days at EP Roberts Primary School during the 2022/23 school year.

Children read aloud as

the work of CSB is critical to national development.

The intent is for the debt management solutions emanating from the consultations, to have a widespread effect on the citizens of The Bahamas. While national debt management is vital, so is personal debt, as many Bahamians are suffering - especially since the double impact of Hurricane Dorian followed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

By finding solutions to the debt crisis in countries like The Bahamas, the CPDC believes that people’s livelihoods and wellbeing will be removed from the current state of crisis to one that allows them to flourish.

The CPDC has concluded, because there is a silent debt crisis, the mental and physical health, educational

opportunities, and other critical areas of the way of life for people in the Caribbean are being adversely affected without being noticed.

The campaign to end the debt crisis is one that CSB has taken seriously and has, consequently, engaged experts at every level of public and private institutions to help reverse the troubling trend. Countries vulnerable to climate change like The Bahamas have added threats and real reasons to move quickly to tackle the debt crisis.

For more information, and to share your debt crisis, and most importantly, to find practical solutions for your debt challenges, contact CSB by visiting www.csbdebtjubilee.com, and, www.civilsocietybahamas. org.

brethren stood beside them. Students were fascinated to learn that UP Keeps the Light On was written and illustrated by students of Hope Town Primary School, Elbow Cay, Abaco. The diverse book selection featured Edwidge Danticat, Sabrina K Marshall, Peter D Maynard, Patricia Glinton Meicholas, Hon Michael Pintard, MP and other authors.

EP Roberts Primary School Principal, Maneica

Pratt said: “Our students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and this was evident in the way they listened attentively and asked

a plethora of questions. We look forward to more community support like this as we work together to improve the literacy rate in our school and by extension, our country.”

Men who read inspire children to read. Now more than ever, our children need positive examples of men who care and invest time to read with them. The District Grand Lodge of Bahamas & Turks set the standard.

Laurenne McDonald, literacy day coordinator, said:

“Thanks to the District Grand Lodge of Bahamas and Turks for leading

literacy days at EP Roberts Primary School.

“It was an amazing experience to watch your team share their love of reading. Students asked lots of questions related to the stories and readers’ professions. Readers provided insight and thoughtful responses.

“Now more than ever, our children need positive examples of men who care and invest time to read with them. The District Grand Lodge of Bahamas & Turks definitely set the standard.”

Article written by Laurenne McDonald, literacy day coordinator

PICTURED are Freeman Deveaux, president AACB; Charlotte Albury, president BAPD; Murray Forde, vice president AACB; Linda Smith, manager BAPD; and some of the children of BAPD.

FROM left, Laurenne McDonald, literacy day coordinator, Maneica Pratt, EP Roberts Primary School Principal, Keishla Wilson, senior mistress, EP Roberts Primary School and Bro Dr Carlton C Watson.

Photo: Linda Pascal CLOCKWISE from top, Corrington Burrows, Ishmael Malcolm Adams, Castino Sands and Timothy Pinder at the literacy day.

Photos: Laurenne McDonald

FIRST Bahamas CSB-CPDC-UK FORGE national consultation and regional debt management project official launch.

A GROUP photograph taken at the PACC 2030 Climate Resilient Clean Energy Summit.

Victory and defeat mark opening day

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

Team Bahamas’ 12-and under (12U) baseball club earned a win and loss on day one of the Babe Ruth Caribbean Region Championships.

As the competition got underway at 8am for the 12U division, the home team dominated the Cayman Islands, winning 27-0 at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

However, the story ended differently in the second game of the day against Cuba where they came up short. losing 6-5.

With the team fuelled by the momentum from the comfortable win earlier in the day, Team Bahamas looked to make it two straight wins on opening day.

Bahamas’ 12U team beats Cayman Islands, loses to Cuba on day one

The first inning for the 12U squad saw Team Bahamas get on the scoreboard first following Ralph Burrows’ run to home plate to lead 1-0.

In the bottom of the first inning, Cuba was able to score a run after Deymond Acosta made it home to tie the score 1-1.

The score was still tied at the top of the first inning with Team Bahamas’ Ajay Knowles batting.

Burrows was once again instrumental for the home team after stealing second and third base, then running all the way home following a hit by Knowles.

CARIFTA TRIATHLON SET FOR NASSAU IN AUGUST

THE Bahamas Triathlon Association (BTA) is delighted to announce that they have successfully won the bid to host the highly anticipated CARIFTA Triathlon Championships.

With the Cuba team scrambling, Knowles added another run to the team’s total in the top of the third inning, making the score 3-1.

Cuba eventually got back into the game and at the top of the fourth inning had regained control 5-3.

With Kylan Taylor batting and Knowles on third base waiting to run home, Taylor set the running in motion which allowed for Knowles and Israel to complete successful runs to the home plate. Despite a vallant effort by the home

SEE PAGE 12

PEACE ON DA STREETS BASKETBALL CLASSIC STARTS ON MONDAY

The event, organised under the theme “Sports in Paradise,” will take place August 26-27 at Goodman’s Bay in Nassau.

“We are so excited to host the CARIFTA Triathlon and Aquathlon for the first time in Nassau,” said Lori Roach, secretary general.

“We had previously won the bid for 2020 but had to postpone due to the global pandemic. Since then, we have been anxiously waiting for our time to come, and it’s finally here.”

Anticipating the participation of approximately 200 youth athletes ranging from 11 to 21 years old, representing 10 Caribbean countries, the BTA is eagerly preparing to welcome both national and regional guests to this prestigious event.

As the host venue, Goodman’s Bay will provide a stunning backdrop for the competitions, showcasing the beauty of The Bahamas.

The BTA extends its gratitude to the generous sponsors who have already contributed to making the event happen, including long-time triathlon supporter Bahamas Waste,

SEE PAGE 14

US EMBASSY CONTINUES TO ‘BRIDGE THE GAP’ THROUGH SPORTS

THE US Embassy Nassau has partnered with the Nassau Rowing Club to host Arshay Cooper’s visit to The Bahamas July 18-22 to share how rowing can empower youth.

THE ROLE OF THE SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN IN INJURY PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

SPORTS are a thrilling and challenging pursuit, pushing athletes to their limits and inspiring greatness. Behind the scenes, a group of specialised medical professionals works tirelessly to ensure the well-being of athletes and help them prevent and manage injuries.

At the core of this team is the sports medicine physician. Sports medicine physicians play a vital role in the world of athletics, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of sportsrelated injuries.

Their extensive knowledge, combined with a deep understanding of the unique demands of sports activities, positions them at the forefront of athlete care and performance optimisation. Prevention is the cornerstone of sports medicine,

and sports medicine physicians employ a comprehensive approach to minimise the risk of injuries.

They assess athletes’ overall health and physical condition, conduct pre-participation evaluations, and provide guidance on proper warm-up routines, conditioning exercises, and injury prevention techniques.

By identifying potential risk factors and implementing targeted prevention strategies, they empower athletes to perform at their best while reducing the likelihood of injuries.

When injuries occur, sports medicine physicians are the go-to experts for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans.

Armed with a deep understanding of musculoskeletal injuries, they employ advanced

imaging techniques, such as X-rays, MRI scans and ultrasounds, to precisely identify the nature and

extent of the injury. Drawing upon their expertise, they develop personalised treatment plans that may include a combination of physical therapy, medication, injections and orthopedic interventions. Rehabilitation is a crucial phase in the journey towards recovery, and sports medicine physicians oversee and guide the rehabilitation process.

They collaborate closely with physical therapists, athletic trainers and other healthcare professionals to design tailored exercise programmes, monitor progress and ensure a safe return to activity. Through targeted rehabilitation, they aim to restore function, optimise healing and reduce the risk of re-injury, enabling athletes to resume their sport with confidence. Furthermore, sports medicine physicians

are at the forefront of cutting-edge research, continuously expanding their knowledge and contributing to the advancement of sports medicine.

Their commitment to staying abreast of the latest scientific findings and best practices enables them to deliver evidence-based care and offer innovative treatment options to athletes.

In a world where athletes constantly push the boundaries of what is possible, the role of sports medicine physicians is indispensable.

They are the guiding force behind the scenes, working tirelessly to support athletes, prevent injuries and facilitate optimal performance.

Their expertise extends beyond treating injuries; they serve as advocates for

SEE PAGE 12

Arshay’s visit is part of the US Embassy’s overall aim to “bridge the gap” through sports in The Bahamas.

Sports provide an opportunity to bridge both the gender and education gaps seen among young people, especially young girls, who are often underrepresented in sports.

Rowing provides an outstanding opportunity for young Bahamian girls to partake in sport and to access higher education in the United States.

Arshay Cooper is an American rower, bestselling author and protagonist of the film “A Most Beautiful Thing.” He will be interacting with various youth groups to share his story, discuss US scholarship opportunities and promote the sport of rowing.

“Rowing was a life-changing experience for Arshay Cooper. It could present the same opportunity for many Bahamian youth as well,” said US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, Usha Pitts.

“Rowing can open a path to university scholarships in the United States, similar to what exists for track and field, basketball and many

SEE PAGE 12

THE 27th Michael “Scooter” Reid Peace on Da Streets Basketball Classic returns to a new Hope Community Center basketball court next week Monday.

Photo: Austin Fernander/Tribune Staff

AWARDS up for grabs at the Babe Ruth Caribbean Region Championships.

UNITED STATES EMBASSY CONTINUES TO ‘BRIDGE THE GAP’ THROUGH SPORTS

THE ROLE OF THE SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN IN INJURY PREVENTION, MANAGEMENT

FROM PAGE 11

athlete health, educators on injury prevention and catalysts for lifelong wellness.

So, the next time you witness the awe-inspiring feats of an athlete, remember the dedicated sports medicine physicians working diligently behind the scenes. They play a pivotal role in ensuring that athletes can pursue their passions safely, minimise injuries and reach their full potential on the field, court or track.

FROM PAGE 11

other sports.”

The US Embassy Nassau’s partner, the Nassau Rowing Club (NRC), aims to also change young Bahamians’ lives through sports and education. “Our goal is to increase access to and awareness of the sport of rowing among young Bahamians from under-resourced backgrounds and communities,” said Kyle Chea, NRC founder and president. He believes Bahamian rowers can add valuable diversity to US universities’ programmes while providing Bahamians access to higher education.

“Rowing ranks as having one of the lowest athlete-to-scholarship ratios. One core mission of the Nassau Rowing Club is to build a source of promising young rowers – particularly underprivileged and at-risk girls – for NCAA Division I

and II rowing teams, while funding their education through sport and changing their lives.”

The US Embassy is also partnering with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and the Lyford Cay Foundation to provide a special screening of the film, “A Most Beautiful Thing” and workshops for over 300 youth. These events will provide the public the opportunity to witness first hand the positive impacts of rowing.

The U.S. Embassy and Nassau Rowing Club also invites students between the ages of 13-18 to attend Rowing workshops today at the American Corner located at the Harry C. Moore Library at the University of The Bahamas.

The workshop can accommodate 30 students per session. Sessions will run from 1:30pm– 2:30pm and 3pm-4pm.

In a world where the pursuit of greatness never stops, sports medicine physicians are the guardians of athlete well-being, making a difference in the lives of athletes, one gamechanging injury prevention and management plan at a time.

Bahamian sports medicine physician, sports performance coach, sports nutrition specialist and founder of Empire Sports Medicine. Our mission is to empower athletes to reach new heights while safeguarding their health and well-being. We understand the unique demands of sports activities, and we are dedicated to helping athletes prevent injuries, overcome challenges, optimise nutrition and performance.

NEW ZEALAND OPENS WOMEN’S WORLD CUP WITH A 1-0 UPSET OVER NORWAY

By ANNE M PETERSON AP Sports Writer

AUCKLAND, New Zealand

(AP) — On a day that started with tragedy, the Football Ferns triumphed.

Hannah Wilkinson scored to open the second half and New Zealand went on to upset Norway 1-0 yesterday for its first-ever win at the Women’s World Cup, hours after a shooting in downtown Auckland shocked the host nation.

A gunman stormed a high-rise construction site near Norway’s team hotel and opened fire, killing two people. The gunman was found dead after a police shootout. There was increased security at Eden Park stadium, where 42,137 — a record crowd for a soccer match in New Zealand — were on hand to cheer on the home team, co-hosts of the tournament with Australia. New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was among those at the game. He went into the locker

room after the game and thanked the team for an inspirational performance. After an opening ceremony that honoured New Zealand’s Indigenous heritage, there was a moment of silence for the victims of the shooting. Five people were wounded in the attack, including a police officer. New Zealand’s Football Ferns had played in five previous World Cups, but hadn’t won a match. “We really wanted to inspire young girls across the nation and I think we did that tonight. We

showed that anything is possible,” said captain Ali Riley, who had happy tears in her eyes.

Norway couldn’t finish off its chances in the first half while the Ferns defended well. Ada Hegerberg’s attempt in the 37th minute was deftly defended by Rebekah Stott and the match was scoreless after the first half.

The first woman to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, Hegerberg has 43 goals in 77 international appearances. Currently playing professionally for

Lyon, she has scored a record 59 goals in the Champions League. But she couldn’t find the back of the net in Auckland.

Instead, Wilkinson scored in the opening moments of the second half. Jaqui Hand moved up the right side and placed a perfect cross at Wilkinson’s feet for the goal. While the home crowd wildly celebrated, Norway goalkeeper Aurora Mikalson stood with her hands on her hips. Norway won the World Cup in 1995.

Cowser and Bautista star as the Orioles beat Tampa Bay Rays 4-3

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.

(AP) — Colton Cowser hit a sacrifice fly in the 10th inning, and the AL Eastleading Baltimore Orioles beat the Tampa Bay Rays 4-3 last night in the opener of a four-game series between the American League’s top teams.

Baltimore started the day in first place for the first time after the AllStar break since August 15, 2016. The Orioles, who started July 6½ games back, now have a one-game lead.

BRAVES 7, DIAMONDBACKS 5

ATLANTA (AP) —

Austin Riley hit a three-run homer off Miguel Castro in the eighth inning, and the major league-leading Braves stopped a four-game skid.

Matt Olson hit two more homers for Atlanta, raising his NL-best total to 32. Orlando Arcia also connected.

Riley followed Michael Harris II’s double and fourth homer of the threegame series and 20th of the season, putting Atlanta (6233) ahead 6-5.

BREWERS 4, PHILLIES 0

PHILADELPHIA (AP)

— Corbin Burnes struck out 10 in eight innings, leading Milwaukee to the victory.

Christian Yelich hit a three-run homer as Milwaukee closed out a 5-1 trip through Cincinnati

and Philadelphia. Andruw Monasterio had two hits and scored two runs for the NL Central leaders.

MARINERS 5, TWINS 0

SEATTLE (AP) — George Kirby matched his career high with 10 strikeouts over seven innings, helping the Mariners to the victory

Mike Ford homered as Seattle earned a split of the four-game set after it learned starting outfielder Jarred Kelenic will be out for an extended period after breaking a bone in his left foot.

REDS 5, GIANTS 1

CINCINNATI (AP) — Andrew Abbott pitched a career-high eight innings and Luke Maile homered, sending Cincinnati to its second straight win.

Abbott (5-2) allowed one hit, struck out six and walked two in his ninth big league start.

Derek Law finished the two-hitter, surrendering Wilmer Flores’ 12th homer in the ninth. The Reds salvaged a split of the four-game set. They posted consecutive victories for the first time since a five-game winning streak from July 2-6.

BLUE JAYS 4, PADRES 0

TORONTO (AP) — Chris Bassitt combined with three relievers on a six-hitter, and the Blue

BALTIMORE Orioles’ Colton Cowser watches his RBI sacrifice fly against the Tampa Bay Rays during the 10th inning of a baseball game Thursday, July 20, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Jays avoided a three-game sweep. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Alejandro Kirk homered for Toronto, which managed just one run in the first two games of the series. Kirk went 3 for 3, and Whit Merrifield and Jordan Luplow each had two hits.

CARDINALS 7,

CUBS 2

CHICAGO (AP) — Jordan Walker and Paul DeJong each hit a two-run homer, and St. Louis earned its sixth straight victory.

Nolan Arenado drove in two runs and Steven innings as St. Louis won for the the ninth time in 11 games overall. Paul Goldschmidt had two hits and scored two runs.

Marcus Stroman (10-7) pitched just 3 2/3 innings in

possibly his final home start for the Cubs. The righthander was charged with five runs — four earned — and seven hits.

WHITE SOX 6, METS 2

NEW YORK (AP) —

Yasmani Grandal started a four-run sixth inning with a two-run double that followed Pete Alonso’s error, and the White Sox spoiled José Quintana’s Mets debut. Grandal doubled to the warning track in right after the White Sox loaded the bases against Drew Smith. The inning started when Alonso backed up on a grounder by Luis Robert Jr. that bounced off his glove. The first baseman expressed his frustration by putting his head in his hands.

BABE RUTH CARIBBEAN CHAMPS

FROM

PAGE 11

team in their second game of the day, they fell in six innings.

Stephen Burrows, head coach of the team, talked about the loss to Cuba.

“We came out a bit slow at the beginning. Sometimes guys get the game jitters, by the time we were able to snap out of it and string runs together, it was a bit too late,” Burrows said.

(AP Photo/Scott Audette)

TIGERS 3, ROYALS 0 KANSAS CITY, Mo.

(AP) — Michael Lorenthree-hit ball, and Detroit wrapped up another series win against its AL Central rival. his scoreless streak to 23 2/3 innings dating to June 30 at Colorado.

The All-Star right-hander struck out three and walked one.

Tyler Holton worked a perfect eighth before Jason Foley handled the ninth for his fourth save.

Spencer Torkelson, Andy drove in runs for Detroit, which took three of four from the Royals for its fifth straight series win against them.

He added that the team made a lot of key errors in the third inning that caused Cuba to score several runs, but after tightening up on defence they were able to get them out.

Although it was a close loss, Burrows was happy with the way the team tried to comeback against Cuba.

In the initial game of the day, Team Bahamas got the easy win in three innings. The team had already scored 19 runs by the bottom of the first inning. In the second inning, the score had already ballooned to 27-0 against the Cayman Islands team.

Next up for The Bahamas will be Jamaica and the Netherlands.

Coach Burrows is confident going into the games against the two teams today and will look to tighten up defensively and offensively to get runs around the bases.

ARSHAY Cooper and teammates with Mike Teti on location in Oakland.

ARSHAY Cooper sharing his story.

Pro basketballer Jaraun surprises the children at X-treme Athletics camp

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN professional player Jaraun “Kino” Burrows made the summer kids smile at the X-treme Athletics basketball camp after he not only paid them a visit, but trained and played in a scrimmage game with them.

The forward who plays professionally for Andrézieux-Bouthéon in Andrézieux-Bouthéon, France, made the special stop just days after winning the basketball gold medal and Most Valuable Player (MVP) honours for Eleuthera at the 6th Bahamas Games. He was elated to be able to train with the kids and partake in the summer basketball camp.

“That’s what it’s all about, during my summer home I always run my raw talent programme where all of my kids who are abroad and also the young prospects that we are looking at are together in the summer along with the college kids and the pros… we are looking to also give back in any way we can like passing by summer camps and doing some things in the inner city communities,” Burrows said.

With the camp now in its third week since the start on July 3, the kids have been able to learn and develop basic basketball fundamentals. Skills include dribbling, shooting,

SUN SNAP DREAM’S 7-GAME VICTORY STREAK

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Natisha Hiedeman scored 20 of her careerhigh 24 points in the third quarter, Alyssa Thomas had 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists and the Connecticut Sun ended the Atlanta Dream’s sevengame winning streak with an 82-71 victory yesterday. Connecticut trailed 59-57 with 2:38 left in the third quarter before going on a 16-0 run to pull away.

Hiedeman took over in the third quarter, scoring 20 of Connecticut’s 29 points to help build a 67-59 lead. She made 7 of 8 shots in the quarter, including all five of her 3-point attempts. Atlanta scored 18 points in the frame.

Hiedeman finished 8 of 11 from the field, including 6 of 7 from distance, to top her previous high of 19 points. She had combined for just six 3-pointers in her last seven games.

passing and defence which were practiced on a weekly basis. Although these skills are deemed essential and beneficial, Burrows said there are other perks of joining an athletic summer camp.

“Camps like these are essential because the young people are the future. Sports does not just teach basketball, we are talking about life lessons, discipline, team building, ability to work with others and it helps to build productive members of society,” the professional player said.

Burrows believes that more sports camps should exist for the youth of the nation because it is bigger than him and basketball - it is about the future.

Nekeno Demeritte, coach of the X-treme Athletics basketball camp, was happy to see Burrows, who he grew up with, show up to be an inspiration and teacher for the youth at his camp. “We knew one another for a long time and built a bond through basketball and track field. To get someone of his calibre to come to the camp to talk and interact with kids, I am truly grateful and appreciative of him doing this for us because it gives the children someone and something to look forward to,” Demeritte said.

Throughout the three consecutive weeks, the coach has noted that he has seen notable improvement with the kids in their development, style of play and basketball IQ.

He echoed similar sentiments to the Bahamian forward by saying he believes that camps are really good for the summer programme for not only

basketball, but other sports as well.

Demeritte added that the camps help to build athletic prowess and he encourages everybody to enrol their

kids in a summer sports programme. The X-Treme Athletics basketball camp will wrap up next week Friday, July 28.

TOUR DE FRANCE: ASGREEN HOLDS ON TO WIN 18TH STAGE, VINGEGAARD PROTECTS BIG LEAD

BOURG-EN-BRESSE, France (AP) — Another Danish rider took the limelight at the Tour de France yesterday as Kasper Asgreen joined an early breakaway and then held on to win the 18th stage in a sprint finish.

His countryman Jonas

Vingegaard took it easy this time, sitting comfortably in the main pack as he protected his huge overall lead. The defending champion leads two-time Tour winner Tadej Pogacar of Slovenia by 7 minutes, 35 seconds and Britain’s Adam Yates by 10:45 with Sunday’s finale in Paris getting closer.

But this was Asgreen’s day and he spread his arms after beating Dutchman Pascal Eenkhoorn and Norwegian Jonas Abrahamsen in their dash to the line.

“Obviously the situation of our breakaway was not ideal. I would have preferred to break with seven or eight riders. It’s also

one of the final stages of the Tour after really hard weeks,” Asgreen said. “I didn’t rule out the possibility of winning. My breakaway companions were just excellent out there. We all deserved to win because of how much work we put into the break.”

They were all given the same time of 4 hours, 6 minutes, 48 seconds after holding off a large group of sprinters behind them who left it too late. Star sprinter Jasper Philipsen missed out on another stage win and finished fourth. After Vingegaard took full control of the race with some jaw-droppingly fast riding to crush Pogacar in the Alps, Thursday’s stage offered respite to the main contenders on a flat 185-kilometre (114.6-mile) route from Moûtiers to Bourg-en-Bresse.

Belgian rider Victor Campenaerts joined Asgreen and Abrahamsen to form an early breakaway.

They worked well together and after the first hour had opened up a lead of around one minute.

The gap remained the same, give or take a few seconds either way, with under 100 kilometres (62 miles) left.

But the peloton, after rolling along in the sunshine at a mercifully reduced pace compared to

previous days, then eventually stepped it up, with Quentin Pacher and Fred Wright setting a higher tempo.

Eenkhoorn was the next to attack and he was the only one to join the trio to make it a four-man group.

The peloton left it too late, and they just held on as Asgreen raised his arms at the line. The huge

effort took its toll as he dismounted and sat on the tarmac to get his breath back, before being congratulated by a Soudal Quick-Step teammate.

“It means so much with the period I had this year since I crashed at Tour de Suisse,” Asgreen said. “I’ve come a long way, and to cap it off with a victory like this is amazing.”

Rebecca Allen and DeWanna Bonner each scored 13 points for Connecticut (16-6).

Bonner moved into eighth on the WNBA’s career scoring list, passing Candace Parker (6,574).

Thomas became the 34th player in WNBA history to reach 1,000 career assists.

Rhyne Howard scored 22 points and Allisha Gray had 18 points, six rebounds and seven assists for Atlanta (12-9). Nia Coffey added 13 points and 13 rebounds. Howard was 4 of 9 from 3-point range to extend her WNBA record to 19 straight games with two or more makes from distance. Atlanta hosts Connecticut on Saturday.

JA MORANT’S FRIEND ARRESTED OVER 2022 FIGHT AT ALLSTAR’S HOME

MEMPHIS, Tenn.

(AP) — A close friend of Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has been arrested on a misdemeanor warrant over a fight during a pickup basketball game at the player’s home last year.

Davonte Pack, whom Morant has referred to as “my brother,” was booked Wednesday into the Shelby County Jail for assault with bodily harm stemming from the July 2022 altercation in which a teenager says in a lawsuit that the All-Star guard and Pack punched him. The warrant was issued July 10 for the 24-yearold Pack. That was the same day Morant’s lawyers argued in civil court that the teen’s lawsuit against Morant should be dismissed because the guard acted in self-defense after the teen threw a basketball that hit Morant in the chin. Pack was scheduled for a court appearance yesterday. No criminal charges have been filed against Morant. Morant’s accuser was 17 when the lawsuit was filed. It accuses Morant and Pack of assault, reckless endangerment, abuse or neglect, and infliction of emotional distress. An amended complaint identified the plaintiff as Joshua Holloway, who is now 18.

Morant filed a countersuit accusing Holloway of slander, battery and assault.

The NBA suspended Morant for 25 games after a second video of him flashing a handgun was posted online. The video of Morant while sitting in the passenger seat of a car was posted after he served an eight-game suspension in March for livestreaming himself flashing a handgun in a Denver-area strip club. Morant apologised for both incidents.

BAHAMIAN professional player Jaraun “Kino” Burrows paid a visit to the X-treme Athletics basketball camp to give the kids inspiration and teach them basic basketball fundamentals.

Photos: Tenajh Sweeting/Tribune Staff

DENMARK’s Kasper Asgreen celebrates as he crosses the finish line to win the 18th stage yesterday. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Excitement builds for ‘Peace on da Streets’ Basketball Classic

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

THE 27th edition of the Michael “Scooter” Reid Peace on Da Streets Basketball Classic returns to a new Hope Community Center basketball court next week Monday.

Event organiser Carlos Reid and a few of the tournament’s sponsors were in attendance yesterday at the Hope Center in support of the basketball extravaganza. The six-day competition will feature eight teams across five divisions including the 13-and under, 16-and under, 19-and under, church and open division.

The event will get underway from July 24 leading up to Family Fun Night on July 30, showcasing the championship games and celebrity game between the clergy and politicians.

Reid talked about the expectations of the competition level at the Basketball Classic. “We are expecting a number of college basketball players to showcase their talents as this event has become the elite basketball tournament in The Bahamas and over the past several years we have

attracted college coaches that come down with the hope of offering scholarships to some of our young players,” Reid said.

The winners of the open division will receive a cash prize of $2,000 and the runners-up will receive $1,000 for their efforts.

The event organiser shared why the basketball classic’s prize money increased for the 27th edition of the tournament.

“This is the premier basketball tournament, persons have gotten scholarships, a lot of the players that play professionally say that they played in this tournament… this is why we decided to up our prize money because some of these brothers have real needs,” the event organiser said.

The eight teams will get to battle on a revamped Hope Community Center basketball court before play transitions over to the Kendal G L Isaacs Gymnasium for the championship games.

Outside of division play, competitors will have the opportunity to compete in other basketball competitions for cash prizes.

Persons can partake in the IHOP-sponsored

Slam Dunk Contest or the Mr Ship It Three-Point Shootout.

Despite not having a women’s division this time around due to lack of numbers, Reid welcomes the ladies’ teams to join the basketball classic because the organisation is ready to support them. “Persons have said before that we do not look out for the females, but the two years that we decided to on two different occasions we only had three teams…if

we are guaranteed that the females are interested we can easily put it in because we have the capacity and support behind us to do it,” Reid said.

He added that they would like to cater to the women but they need full participation to include the division.

Although there will not be a division for the ladies, fans can expect to see the Lady Politicians and Lady Pastors going head-to-head in a free throw shootout for bragging rights.

Reid had some strong words for the politicians ahead of next weekend’s celebrity game.

“I saw them in the House of Assembly putting up these new uniforms but I just want to let them know uniforms do not win games … if y’all are looking to win this year you all are in a sad state,” he said.

The Basketball Classic has gotten great support from corporate sponsors, including title-sponsor Brice Newball Foundation,

Sun Oil, Domino’s Pizza, IHOP, Insurance Company of The Bahamas, National Fencing and 22 others. Nadia Butterfield, a representative of the Brice Newball Foundation, said if there was ever a time we needed peace in the country, it is now.

The foundation is proud to be a part of the sponsorship and to support the event and Reid bringing hope to the hopeless. The event gets underway at 5pm on Monday.

TOMMY FLEETWOOD SHARES BRITISH OPEN LEAD, MCILROY AMONG THE SURVIVORS

By DOUG FERGUSON AP Golf Writer

HOYLAKE, England (AP) — The British Open showed again yesterday that even after 163 years, golf’s oldest championship can still deliver a few surprises. It started with Christo Lamprecht, the South African amateur as tall as a flag stick and almost as thin, making three birdies over his last six holes and posting a 5-under 66 to become the first amateur in 12 years to share the 18-hole lead at the Open.

Curiosity about the 22-year-old amateur turned to glee at the site of the local hero, Tommy Fleetwood, running off three straight birdies on the back nine at Royal Liverpool to join him atop the leaderboard. Emiliano Grillo of Argentina became the third to post 66 by holing a birdie putt from 50 feet on the last hole.

Not to be overlooked was Jordan Spieth hitting a shank; Rory McIlroy missing a 3-foot putt; Justin Thomas going bunker-tobunker-to-rough — each shot farther away from the

flag than the previous one — in making a 9 on the 18th hole to post his highest round in a major at 82.

McIlroy, trying desperately to end his nine-year drought in the majors, was happy to get away with a 71. He risked the round getting away from him until making up for that wee miss on the eighth hole with a 40-foot birdie on the 14th that sparked him.

And then it almost got away from him in the end — just like the bunkers on the 18th ruined so many other rounds — when he left one in the pot bunker

and expertly got out the second time and made a 10-foot par.

Scottie Scheffler, the world’s No. 1 player, got around in 70 in the morning before the breeze turned into a stiff wind.

Masters champion Jon Rahm reached a point where he felt nothing was going his way, and it wasn’t. He hit what he thought was a good shot into the 18th only for it to find a bunker, forcing him to play back toward the fairway and turning a birdie chance into bogey. Rahm opened with a 74. “It does ask a lot of

questions, this golf course,” an exasperated Shane Lowry said after a 72.

What it left behind after the longest day — 15 hours of golf — were few answers.

Fleetwood raised hopes of becoming the first English winner of a British Open in England since Tony Jacklin in 1969. He kept his own hopes measured, fully aware of gallery support for the long-haired lad raised about an hour up the coast.

“First day, so this was a pretty good one,” Fleetwood said. “All I want to do is keep working hard,

keep playing, and keep putting myself in position. And obviously, it’ll be my turn soon.”

The biggest surprise to everyone but the 6-foot-8 (2.03 metres) Lamprecht was seeing an amateur atop the leaderboard at the final major of the year. He qualified by winning the British Amateur at Hillside, a links course just north of Liverpool on the Lancashire coast.

“The first tee shot was the only bit of nerves I had all day,” said Lamprecht, an All-American at Georgia Tech.

CARIBBEAN Bottling supports CARIFTA 2023 Triathlon. Pictured, from left to right, are Jadrian Turnquest, of Caribbean Bottiling Company, and Bahamas CARIFTA team members and sisters, Anjaleah and Taylor Knowles.

BAHAMAS Waste continues to support local athletes as a long-time supporter of local swim, run and bike events in Nassau. Pictured are brother and sister athletes, Jayden and Chelsea Smith, at Bahamas Waste offices thanking them for their donation and support.

NASSAU PLAYS HOST TO CARIFTA TRIATHLON AUGUST 26-27

FROM PAGE 11

Shoreline Distributors and Caribbean Bottling Company. “We’re thrilled to come on board as one of the sponsors for the CARIFTA Triathlon,” said Jardian Turnquest, marketing manager for Caribbean Bottling Company.

“It’s always encouraging to see the discipline and commitment

that our young athletes display, and we are humbled to have been able to support them. Rehydration is extremely important when competing in any event, so we are very pleased to have provided Powerade and Dasani to all the athletes who are participating.”

While the CARIFTA Triathlon Championships will be free for

the public to attend and spectate, it is important to note that there will be road closures in effect.

“We want to advise everyone to be mindful of the traffic diversions during the event weekend,” added Roach. “We are also thankful to Baha Mar, who has graciously granted the use of their parking

lot located on the roundabout by Breezes, which will serve as the host hotel.”

The BTA is continuing to work towards the August event along with the Bahamas Ministry of Sports but are still seeking assistance from the corporate community and individuals interested in supporting this significant

event for the country. “It’s going to take a lot to make this event happen and to put on a good show to our fellow CARIFTA athletes, so we encourage anyone interested in volunteering to reach out to the BTA, secretary@ bahamastriathlon.com or Barefoot Marketing for sponsorship opportunities.”

THE 27th Michael “Scooter” Reid Peace on Da Streets Basketball Classic returns to a new Hope Community Center basketball court next week Monday. The event runs July 24-30.

Photos: Austin Fernander/Tribune Staff

SHOWN, from left to right, are National Fence Company representative Dechan Hall, Nadia Butterfield, representative of Brice Newball Foundation, event organiser Carlos Reid, Dicrius Ramsey, representative of Caribbean Dining Company (IHOP), and Domino’s representative Naomi Grant.

brought predictability to these costs.

“In 2020, this oil hedge programme was the firstever executed by the bank linked to two loans for the Government of The Bahamas, and it was executed at a propitious time for oil prices, thus driving dramatic savings.” Those “dramatic savings”, though, have long since evaporated with BPL consumers having seen their all-in electricity rates increase from 24 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) in October 2022 to 41 cents per kWh now.

The Davis administration has yet to comment on the economic or social fall-out from such a rapid and sharp cost increase, although it did warn Bahamian households and businesses back in October that this was coming when it unveiled BPL’s ‘glide path’ strategy for addressing previously under-recovered fuel costs totalling at least $90m, based on figures provided

‘dramatic savings’ to sky-high bills in three years

by Alfred Sears, minister of works and utilities.

Michael Pintard, the Opposition’s leader, yesterday told Tribune Business that the soaring energy bills were evidence that the Government “made a great error” in failing to execute trades to acquire extra low-cost fuel for BPL - and sustain the same hedging strategy praised by the IDB - shortly after being elected to office in September 2021.

“None of them are paying the price; it’s the average consumer and business community that are paying the price, and now we have business persons complaining about the adverse impact on their businesses,” Mr Pintard said. “This is squarely at the feet of the Prime Minister and Alfred Sears.

“These increases being experienced by the public are a direct result of their failure to take good advice, to consult and look at the data which would have showed significant savings. They cannot run from it.” Tribune Business

was previously told that, confronted with a cashstrapped Public Treasury, the Davis administration elected to use scarce financing to help repay a BPL loan that was coming due in February 2022 rather than invest $40m-$50m in buying low-cost fuel.

The IDB was especially well-placed to assess the effectiveness of BPL’s fuel hedging given the central role it played in the initiative. For it was its executives that explored the oil market for cut-price fuel purchases, identified and recommended potential deals to BPL and the Government, and executed the trades to acquire the fuel once authorised to do so.

And, with the Government and BPL themselves unable to provide or obtain the necessary credit lines required to back fuel hedging, they instead piggybacked on the IDB’s ‘AAA’ credit rating and two of the multilateral lender’s existing loans to The Bahamas.

Mauricio Claver-Carone, the IDB’s former president, in a March 2022 roundtable discussion with Caribbean media, said the savings generated by BPL’s fuel hedging initiative were “starting to look even more attractive” given that oil prices were then at $130-$131 per barrel as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine the previous month. “What we did in The Bahamas, for the first time, is an energy hedging instrument. The hedge is done by these instruments. We’ve learned a lot from it,” Mr Claver-Carone said. “I won’t speak to whether any country has maximised it, but the impact for The Bahamas is that it has been able to mitigate the impact of [rising] energy prices thanks to that.”

Tribune Business sources, familiar with BPL’s fuel hedging initiative, said the IDB had viewed it as “a benchmark or example” for smaller Caribbean nations to follow and adopt to mitigate their own energy costs,

and had been hoping to roll it out through the rest of the region. Mr Pintard, meanwhile, said BPL’s fuel hedging had also employed as a consultant Tony Lopez, who had helped Grand Bahama Power Company implement a similar scheme - which remains in place today - when he was its chief financial officer.

Speaking of the present administration, he added: “In cancelling it they were going against the advice of the IDB, the advice of Tony Lopez, and the data that showed it had already saved approximately $25m and stood to save $50m if the programme had continued.

“It was clearly justified because, again, it was developed in conjunction with the IDB, a trusted partner of both administrations. At a minimum, the Government was duty-bound to ask the IDB, and ask Tony Lopez who had assisted Grand Bahama Power, what were their impressions of its impact?

“The Government appears not to have consulted a trusted partner to gain advice if they had any concern with what was provided by the former Board and management. Failure to take advantage of the hedge has left us exposed to fluctuations in pricing on the global markets. Where we are now is a direct result of their failure to take good advice, and also their failure to look at the data showing the success of the programme and their failure to consult trusted partners.”

Whitney Heastie, BPL’s former chief executive, in a six-page October 18, 2021, letter to Mr Sears setting out the rationale for the fuel hedging initiative, said: “Up through September 2021, BPL and its customers have benefited by a reduced $30m fuel cost over the past 13 months.

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“It is estimated that by January 2022 the savings amount will be $55m. This reduction in fuel oil prices through hedging has also reduced the demand for US dollars from the foreign reserves of the country.” The failure to execute the trades to secure increased cut-price fuel volumes that would have supported BPL’s fuel hedging strategy has triggered a series of events leading to this summer’s soaring energy bills for businesses and households. With fuel hedging, utilities such as BPL typically do not lock-in a price that secures 100 percent of their needs. This is done to minimise risk, cost and exposure in case they find themselves on the wrong side of an unexpected oil price move. As an example, they may hedge 80 percent of their fuel needs for the first year, 50 percent in the second and 30 percent in the third. The Davis administration elected not to execute the trades that would have secured the extra cut-price oil volumes necessary to cover 100 percent of BPL’s fuel needs. However, they also held BPL’s fuel charge at the original 10.5 cents per kWh for a further 12 months until October 2022 even though - without the extra hedged volumes - the actual fuel costs were considerably more.

The Government effectively subsidised BPL to ensure this price could be maintained, which is something that the regulations accompanying the Electricity Act prevent it from doing, as fuel costs are supposed to be 100 percent passed through to the consumer. Now the Government and, by extension, BPL’s fuel supplier, Shell, need to reclaim under-recovered fuel costs of at least $90m, and this is what has caused the electricity monopoly’s bills to spike well in excess of market costs. This ultimately represents a major wealth transfer from Bahamian businesses and households to the oil companies.

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED

POLL

The Public is hereby advised that I, Ervilande Atilus of Gregory Town, Eleuthera, Bahamas mother of EVA SERENITY FAITH ATILUS a minor, intend to change my child’s name to EVA SERENITY FAITH CAREY If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Offcer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

Iconic Nassau business at centre of legal battle

advance such claims” since Sir Milo’s late first son is among the family members bound by the affidavits and deeds of releases that created the present shareholdings and corporate structures in and around Milo B. Butler & Sons.

Representatives of Raleigh Butler’s estate could not be reached for comment before press time last night. Meanwhile Allan Butler, chairman of Milo Butler Corporation, another of the defendant entities, declined to comment when contacted byTribune Business as did Franklyn Butler II.

Milo B. Butler & Sons, which was established in 1963 by Sir Milo and Lady Caroline Butler, and their children, has existed through four family generations. It grew to encompass Milo Butler Mart, which was temporarily closed last year; the Flying Dutchman liquor stores; and Peach Street-based Milo Butler Distributors, the wholesale business.

Also named among the defendants is Milo B.

Butler & Sons Investment Company, which is playing a key role in downtown Freeport’s revival through its renovation and ownership of AML Foods’ new Solomon’s store and other buildings.

Raleigh’s estate is alleging that the late Franklyn Butler senior used his control of annual return filings to “effect unauthorised changes” which, in 1968, saw one share in Milo B. Butler & Sons, which was previously held by Sir Milo, purportedly issued in his name instead.

This, the estate claims, had the effect of giving Franklyn Butler senior corporate control unbeknown to their father or themselves, this reducing his - and now their - dividends and returns. And the estate also asserted that the annual statements for 1963 - the company’s first yearwere only physically filed on March 11, 2015.

And, based on the legal principle of “primogeniture”, which stipulates that a first-born legitimate child inherits the entire or main estate of their parent,

Raleigh’s estate is alleging that the purported change effected by Sir Franklyn Butler senior “had the effect of disenfranchising the claimant and denying him what was then an automatic legal entitlement to inherit the interest of Sir Milo B. Butler in” Milo B. Butler & Sons.

But, demanding that Raleigh’s estate provide “strict proof” to back up its claims, Franklyn Butler senior’s estate “denies the allegations of fraud made by the claimant and avers that all company resolutions passed were authorised by a properly-constituted quorum in furtherance of [Milo B. Butler & Sons] Articles of Association”.

And it added that the allegations “are refuted by virtue of affidavits which confirm that during meetings which occurred” between Sir Milo’s late wife, Lady Caroline, and her nine children - including Raleigh and Franklyn senior - “efforts were made to determine and agree an allocation of the respective beneficial interest” in Milo B. Butler & Sons.

These interests were agreed verbally and later became the subject of various affidavits. The late Raleigh Butler was a party to one of these affidavits, Franklyn Butler senior’s estate alleged, which was dated November 2011.

And there were deeds of release “which confirmed that during the lifetime of Lady Caroline it was expressed to all of her children (including Raleigh Butler) that her interests in [Milo B. Butler & Sons] would, on her death, be transferred to Franklyn Butler senior, and that the respective parties under the respective releases (including Raleigh Butler) wished to fulfill the expressed desire of Lady Caroline by transferring their interests to the executors” of Franklyn Butler senior’s estate. The latter also asserted that the meetings between Lady Caroline and her nine children sought “to determine and agree an allocation of the beneficial interests” in Milo B. Butler & Sons, and that this was “verbally agreed” by the parties.

“In particular, during these meetings, it was agreed that, since the interest of Franklyn Butler senior was being reduced, Lady Caroline gave an assurance that her interest in [Milo B. Butler & Sons] would go to Franklyn Butler senior on her death and that her children and their descendants always adhered to this family arrangement,” Franklyn Butler senior’s estate alleged.

“The claimant is therefore bound by the terms of the affidavits and the first releases to the extent that Raleigh Butler was a party to the same and cannot advance such claims.”

Raleigh’s estate, though, alleged that the meetings between Lady Caroline and her children, which took place between 1979 and 1982, were “inconclusive” when it came to determining the beneficial ownership interests family members would have in Milo B. Butler & Sons.

It also argued that the late Sir Franklyn senior had, by virtue of the “unauthorised” share transfer,

taken control of the company, but this was denied by Franklyn Butler senior’s estate. It alleged that the same meetings resulted in an agreement that Franklyn Butler senior would gain a 20 percent interest in Milo B. Butler & Sons; Lady Caroline, 10 percent; and Raleigh Butler 5 percent with the remainder split between the other children. Raleigh’s estate also complained about allegedly “unauthorised transfers of large sums of capital from” Milo B. Butler & Sons to Milo B. Butler & Sons Investment Company for the acquisition of real estate in Grand Bahama, but the claims were again rejected and disputed by the defendants.

They added that “the disposition of Lady Caroline’s interest was altered by the unanimous consent” of herself and her children, and asserted: “The claimant is estopped from alleging the family meetings that addressed the allocation of interests aforesaid were inconclusive having received benefit from the same.”

‘Historic first’: Dionisio teams with Sir Franklyn

FROM PAGE A20

the statement announcing the Superwash principal’s move.

However, the Eleuthera Properties chairman said that since Mr D’Aguilar’s involvement “leaked out, the phone has been ringing more and more” from other potential investors inquiring whether - and how - they can buy-in. Asked whether an initial public offering (IPO) or some other share issuance was being considered, Sir Franklyn confirmed the developer is “giving careful thought” as to when it makes further investment opportunities available.

Jack’s Bay, which in April 2023 revealed that renowned golfer, Jack Nicklaus, and his company will design and develop a $20m, 18-hole golf course at the property to complement the existing shorter course produced by Tiger Woods’s firm, has also launched its latest ‘founders programme’ featuring 24 sites valued between $1m and $3m.

Sir Franklyn, stating that the programme has attracted “dozens upon dozens” of inquiries, said multiple “highly credible” persons have paid deposits to become founders although he declined to provide further details.

“Jack’s Bay is pleased to welcome Dionisio

D’Aguilar as its newest investor and director,” the Eleuthera Properties chief told Tribune Business. Asked when the former minister will join the Board as a director, he added: “The process for that happening is now beyond just an idea.

“There’s a degree of historic aspect to this. The historic aspect is that this will be the first time I know of in the history of the country that two former ministers of tourism are investors in, and directors of, a substantial tourism-oriented project. That makes it historic.

“Two, in Dionisio D’Aguilar and Tommy Turnquest, I think the capital markets would see those two individuals as being sound participants in

that space. They’re not just regular investors. These are highly credible investors generally. When you consider those two factors then it’s a remarkable statement of confidence in the future of The Bahamas.”

Sir Franklyn added that this was likely to have further positive spin-off impacts for Jack’s Bay. “I think it sends a very strong signal,” he said. “In fact, I can tell you that since word about this has leaked out, the phone is ringing more and more. There are other investors wanting to know what opportunities exist for them to get involved. That’s what’s happening.”

Asked whether this may involve an IPO or some other share issue mechanism, the Eleuthera Properties chief added: “We are giving slow, careful thought to when we open up additional opportunities and how we go about it. Clearly, this is seen as a sea change in terms of investor confidence in the country. How we go about doing it, we’re giving a lot of thought to it.

“Our vision for Jack’s Bay is not an ordinary project. We’ve owned these assets now for approximately four decades. As I speak to you, we owe no bank no money. We owe no bank no money. The fact Tommy Turnquest is now chief executive of the company [Eleuthera Properties] is reassuring

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to a lot of other investors, including Mr D’Aguilar.

“A lot of people, because of Mr Turnquest’s career in politics, there’s a generation of Bahamians that may have forgotten he was one of the first Bahamians to qualify as a member of the Chartered Bankers Institute of Canada. When you have a company able to own this value of assets for this length of time, and owe the bank no money, we now have leadership. There’s no project like Jack’s Bay with Bahamian leadership,” Sir Franklyn continued.

“Having Mr D’Aguilar join us is significant in that regard. It’s our intention to make Jack’s Bay the destination of choice for the most discerning, the Bahamian destination of choice for the most discerning. Mr D’Aguilar joining will be of assistance in giving credence and credibility to that notion. We see this as a material event.”

Jack’s Bay, in a statement, confirmed that its latest founders initiative has launched. “You ask how the founders programme is going,” Sir Franklyn replied. “The best I can say is swimmingly well.

We’re not in the single digits, we’re talking dozens and dozens. Dozens have phoned. Highly credible people have paid deposits to be founders. There’s a strategy as to how we go about dealing with that part of it. We’ll have more to say on that relatively soon.”

Jack’s Bay has a large number of Bahamian shareholders in its immediate holding company, Eleuthera Properties. While Sir Franklyn’s Sunshine Holdings group is the largest shareholder, its other investors include the likes of Colina, BAF Financial, the John Bull Group of Companies and Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Besides the corporate investors, the Anglican Church has been “gifted” shares in Eleuthera Properties Ltd, while the estates of the late John Morley and Billy Lowe were also among the shareholders.

Eleuthera links to the investors are through the estates of the late Albert Sands and Whitfield Kemp. Another Eleuthera shareholder is businessman Lawrence Griffin from Governor’s Harbour, while Sir Orville Turnquest, the

former governor-general, and his family - long-time investment and business partners of Sir Franklynare also invested. Tommy Turnquest, Sir Orville’s son and the former MP and Cabinet minister, is Jack’s Bay’s deputy chairman and chief executive.

DPM SIGNS $10M LOAN

WITH SAUDI ARABIA

of SFD’s work in the Caribbean region.

“Over the last few years, Ministry of Tourism officials have engaged in ongoing bilateral talks with government officials in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” said Mr Cooper.

“Our continuing communication led last year into both countries entering into a Memorandum of Understanding, and this visit will culminate with the cementing of this agreement through a contract signing for the construction of innovative business incubation centres around our archipelago.”

While in Riyadh, Mr Cooper was due to meet with Ahmed Al Khateeb,

EU BACKLIST THREAT TO STORM CLAIMS

minister of tourism, and tour King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), formerly known as the Saudi Arabian National Centre for Science and Technology (SANCST), which is an independent scientific organisation that is responsible for the promotion of science and technology in Saudi Arabia.

“The Bahamas and Saudi Arabia are creating a unified strategy to share mutual tourism investment opportunities alongside day-to-day expertise in initiatives like sustainable tourism practices, management of tourism facilities and the sharing of insight and data,” added Mr Cooper.

How to boost productivity without micromanagement

FROM PAGE A19

on project dates and deadlines. Some work cultures and supervisors are quite relaxed to the point where people feel they can constantly fail and still survive. Keep this in check. Constant failure may point to a greater issue of the employee being overwhelmed, under-skilled or under-funded.

7. Provide clear, positive reinforcement, rewards and recognition for team members who consistently deliver on their project deadlines.

Celebrate those employees and teams who are consistent in their delivery of project success. This serves as motivation for those doing their jobs, as well as those who are not. People need to know that the extra they do matters, is seen and appreciated.

8. Provide employees with the budget allocation and resources, including human resources, required for success in each project. Sand alone cannot build houses. Even great leaders fail when they do not have the resources needed to succeed. Ensure that the right amount of funding and other resources are provided to succeed. While it is understood there are no perfect scenarios, one employee can only be judged on one employee’s amount of work.

claims payouts to blacklisted jurisdictions. Should this take effect, it could prevent Bahamians from adequately rebuilding in the aftermath of future catastrophic climate-related events.

Referring to Prime Minister Philip Davis’ address this week to a conference of EU, Caribbean and Latin American nations, Mr Pinder said: “He spoke about, with the EU blacklist against our country, that the insurance industry that is vital to the rebuilding efforts of natural disasters is adversely affected, which in turn adversely affects each and every one of us in this country.

“We can speak specifically to the reinsurance market. Because the EU has indiscriminately blacklisted our country, any remittances paid on claims from European reinsurers, there is a 25 percent withholding. We cannot recover and rebuild in the face of the climate crisis if the financial services penalties put on us by the European Union affect the basic tenants of reinsurance and insurance in this country. Things have to change.”

Echoing the Prime Minister, Mr Pinder called out the 27-nation EU for “inequitable determinations” in including The Bahamas on its ‘tax blacklist’, arguing that this nation has a stronger compliance regime than many developed nations while debating amendments to the Exempted Limited Partnership Act and International Business Companies Act.

He said: “As we know, the financial services industry is an industry that is highly competitive, where our competitors are always looking for an advantage over us, where the goalposts move on a continual basis. It’s an industry where we have the big behemoths to our east and across the pond, who look to themselves being financial centres at the detriment of us.

“It is an industry where we have foreign governments and multilateral institutions doing what they can to discredit our jurisdiction, and to cause for what I call inequitable determinations, blacklists and other opinions that they may have about us even though we are a country who achieves greater things than them, who have better compliance regimes than them, and who have better innovation than them.”

Mr Pinder said Mr Davis made a “convincing argument” on the difficulties that confront blacklisted small nations, adding: “Our prime minister has recently given to the European Union.... my good colleague, Mr Halkitis, was in Brussels with the Prime Minister, championing the country and what I would call a hostile environment in front of the EU, European Commission and its technical bodies.

“The Prime Minister spoke with respect to the effects of climate change on small island developing states. But the Prime Minister also was able to give a convincing argument on how the activities of countries and multilateral

organisations like the European Union, through their discriminatory treatment of countries like The Bahamas in financial services matters, have a direct adverse implication on the climate crisis effects on small island developing states.

“The Prime Minister told the European Union to get their foot off the necks of countries like The Bahamas by utilising discriminatory blacklisting activities in the financial services industry. And he described how, with those blacklisting activities and impositions on countries like ours, it affects our ability to recover from natural disasters that those countries themselves have created,” the Attorney General said

“There has to be a holistic view on how this treatment by big economies, who cause climate crises and discriminate against us in the financial services industry, affect us small countries. It’s unfair. And one thing that this government will do, in the face of the big boys in the room, we will punch above our weight.”

“We will make our case known at the highest levels. And we will solicit the support of our colleagues both in the region and worldwide. To demonstrate that we are equal to them, and we should be treated as such.”

Mr Pinder revealed that the Commercial Enterprises Act will be debated in the Senate next week, while the new economic substance reporting portal will be launched in September. He said: “We have a new piece of legislation, a redraft of the Commercial Enterprises

Act that deals with economic substance that we will find in this place next week which will address all the deficiencies of the prior legislation.

“We will also address what has evolved into best practices in economic substance reporting. We will have a new and functional portal up and running by September for the reporting on an economic substance basis.”

Mr Pinder said the changes to the portal and the Commercial Enterprises Act will better position the country to be removed from the EU blacklist when he 27-nation bloc meets again to assess the listings in November.

He said: ”We will be in a position to demonstrate to the European Union, OECD and others that we have the capability to enforce our laws, to enforce those who do not abide by our laws, and to impose the adequate remedies and penalties that are necessary. And we will be in a position to be doing that in November when they come to rewrite this country; to be compliant with the best practices and requirements imposed upon us by the large colonial masters of the past.

“They will likely have something else they want us to do when they come. As a small island developing state, leaders in the international financial centre marketplace, we must punch above our weight. And the fact of the matter is we must do better than they do. We must continue to innovate, we must continue to lead from the front. This is vital to our survivability, vital to our middle class, vital to our social sustainability in this country.”

FTX CHIEF TARGETS BAHAMAS PROPERTY ‘MISAPPROPRIATION’

FROM PAGE A20

The website for the complex states that it offers ‘ultra-luxe’ living next to a ‘spectacular private beach’, ‘large and exclusive’ residences that are ‘meticulously appointed’ and have ‘breathtaking views’, and amenities that include an infinity pool, gym and concierge service.

“Bankman-Fried, Wang and Singh paid for these condominiums using funds fraudulently transferred from the FTX group. Between April and June 2021, Bankman-Fried, Wang and Singh caused FTX to wire the following amounts to Abaco Law Ltd, a firm acting as intermediary between Bankman-Fried, Wang and Singh and the various property owners.”

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Some $2.174m was provided “for the purchase of a unit in Bankman-Fried’s name”, while $1.655m and $1.034m were spent on units for Wang and Singh, respectively. “Although FTX had supplied more than $4.8m to purchase the condominium units, Bankman-Fried, Wang and Singh had the deeds conveyed to themselves rather

than to the FTX group entity that paid for the condominiums,” Mr Ray charged.

The “oceanfront complex” was not identified in the lawsuit. However, based on a June 26, 2023, report to the Delaware Bankruptcy Court, in which Mr Ray listed the $243m worth of Bahamian real estate acquired by FTX, the legal action appears to refer to One Cable Beach. The June 26 document shows three condos were purchased in this complex for similar prices, and in corresponding timeframes, as those listed in last night’s legal filing.

Research by Tribune Business found a Securities Commission listing of registered financial and corporate services providers that identified a company called Abaco Law Ltd as having its offices at 28 Bougainvillea Avenue in Nassau. Its senior executive was named as Julian Bostwick, but there is no suggestion that he or the company have done anything wrong in relation to FTX and they are not named as defendants in the lawsuit. “As has been widely reported, defendants caused

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL

The Public is hereby advised that I, NATASSIA ASHLEY RIGBY of P.O Box CB 11511 Pinewood Gardens, Southern District, Nassau, Bahamas, intend to change my name to NASTASSIA ASHLEY RIGBY If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Offcer, P.O.Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

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the FTX group to spend more than $243m on real estate in The Bahamas, including multi-million dollar luxury properties for defendants and their friends and families,” Mr Ray added. “Defendants funded these real estate purchases from accounts that held commingled customer and corporate funds.

“Using these commingled funds, defendants caused the FTX Group to purchase more than 30 properties, including a $30m, six-bedroom penthouse in the Albany resort community in The Bahamas in January 2022. The property, known as the Orchid Penthouse, was home to Bankman-Fried, Wang, Singh and Ellison prior to the FTX group’s collapse.

“This quarter of a billion in real estate was not necessary for the operations of the FTX group, and conferring such largesse on defendants and their friends and families was done to the detriment of FTX group.”

FTX’s Bahamian real estate purchases thus continue to attract considerable considerable controversy.

For FTX’s Bahamian liquidators last week accused Mr Ray, aided by its local law firm, of going behind their backs in attempting to sell the very same assets. Brian Simms KC, the Lennox Paton senior partner, and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) accounting duo, Kevin Cambridge and Peter Greaves, alleged that the US chief and his team confessed to instructing their financial advisers to sell the high-end Bahamian real estate “for cash” without first informing them.

And the Supreme Courtappointed trio also asserted that Mr Ray’s advisers were aided in this effort by the FTX US chief’s Bahamian

attorneys, Peter Maynard & Company, with such activities only “causing confusion” as to who has ultimate control of valuable real estate assets - the FTX Digital Markets liquidators or the US chapter 11 proceedings before the Delaware Bankruptcy Court.

The Bahamian liquidators alleged, in legal papers filed with the Delaware court last week, that the actions of Mr Ray’s agents represented a violation of the January 6, 2023, co-operation agreement that had been hammered out with the FTX US chief during last year’s Christmas holiday. This stipulated that the local trio would take the lead in selling-off Bahamian real estate to recover valuable assets on behalf of FTX creditors, with both sides agreeing on the process to be used.

However, Mr Simms and his colleagues are alleging that Mr Ray, who controls the 134 FTX entities in Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Delaware, reneged on this agreement by “threatening” that the bid to liquidate the Bahamian real estate would violate the worldwide asset freeze automatically imposed by the US court proceedings.

The Bahamian trio, in their counterclaim to Mr Ray’s late March 2023 lawsuit that seeks to deny them access to any assets caught in the crypto exchange’s multi-billion dollar collapse, then complained that their efforts to find an alternative solution for FTX’s local property assets proved fruitless prior to being informed of Mr Ray’s alleged attempt to seize control.

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CENTRAL CONCO LTD.

N O T I C E IS HEREBY GIVEN as follows:-

a) CENTRAL CONCO LTD. is in voluntary dissolution under the provisions of Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act 2000.

b) The dissolution of the said company commenced on 18th July, 2023 when the Articles of Dissolution were submitted to and registered by the Registrar General.

c) The Liquidator of the said company is Octagon Management Limited, The Bahamas Financial Centre, Shirley & Charlotte Streets, Nassau, Bahamas.

Dated this 21st day of July, A. D. 2023 Octagon Management Limited

HOW TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY WITHOUT MICROMANAGEMENT

With skilled labour in relatively short supply, thus increasing the need for employers to maximise the productivity of each worker, human development strategies are essential to achieving better results. Micromanaging workers has proven dangerous and counter productive in seeking to increase productivity. People work better in comfortable environments where they are held accountable for the results. The question, then, that we answer in this week’s column is how do we hold staff accountable to high

standards without hovering over them or hiring overlords to run the plantation. Here are eight suggestions for how to do this seamlessly.

1. Hire employees who have a great track record of high accomplishments. The pre-screening, interview process and background checks for each employee should provide you with all the information you need to make a sound and solid decision about the candidate. Hearing the verbal testimony of two former employers and supervisors, and having the employee share examples

of what they accomplished in their previous job, provides the evidence - or lack thereof - which should inform your final decision.

2. Hire managers and supervisors who are great at coaching, mentoring and modelling the behaviours and actions you want each employee to demonstrate. Your middle management team sets the pace for the level of productivity you will get on the ground. Tired and lazy managers will produce low-functioning employees every time.

3. Make each deliverable clear for all employees and supervisors to understand. You cannot manage what you have not articulated. Create a project management process with clear action steps, measurement timelines and identify who takes the lead for each part of the process.

4. Have clear lines of communication where employees can reach out for support when they need it with projects. A project is useless without a communication plan. Let the team know the role they have in bringing life to the project. No one should

DPM SIGNS $10M LOAN DEAL WITH SAUDI ARABIA

THE BAHAMAS yesterday signed a $10m loan agreement with Saudi Arabia that will finance the creation of business incubation centres to help develop micro and small tourism enterprises.

The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), in a statement, said its chief executive, Sultan Al-Marshad, signed the agreement in Riyadh with Chester Cooper, deputy

prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation. The latter is leading a Bahamian delegation on a three-day visit to Saudi Arabia. The loan will finance the construction of business incubation centres on three Bahamian islands to support the tourism sector growth. These will accommodate 50 small businesses on New Providence, 25 on Exuma and 25 on Grand

Bahama. The centres will include on-site experiential tours, off-site excursions, retailers and local food and beverage outlets in a bid to nurture entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth in The Bahamas and wider region. The SFD said the move signals its commitment to supporting sustainable economic development in developing countries and small island developing

states (SIDS). It added that it has already implemented more than 700 development projects and programme in 88 countries, with The Bahamas now becoming the 89th nation to receive funding from the SFD.

Mr Cooper said: “This agreement marks a significant step in our nation’s journey towards sustainable growth, with the support of Saudi Arabia through the Saudi Fund

be left out, no matter how minor their responsibility in the process.

5. Provide clear project check-in dates where team members understand and respect deadlines for assignments. Benchmarks and timelines are crucial in holding employees accountable. After you have delegated, do not allow employees to dump projects back in the deck. Hold them to the date and the required standard for the completed project.

6. Outline clear consequences for team members who consistently do

for Development. The upcoming business incubation centres will act as catalysts for our aspiring entrepreneurs and help to accelerate job creation and enhance our tourism sector. This partnership reflects a shared vision of prosperity and development.”

Sultan Al-Marshad added: “SFD is committed to promoting sustainable socio-economic development in developing nations and small island developing states, while supporting the journey to achieving the

not deliver on project deadlines. Watch, and manage, systemic failures to deliver

SEE PAGE A18

United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

“This project promises to nurture entrepreneurship in The Bahamas and stimulate economic growth through the provision of new business and job opportunities in the tourism sector. The agreement further solidifies our commitment to achieving a shared, prosperous and sustainable future for developing countries worldwide.” The agreement marks an expansion

SEE PAGE A18

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Iconic Nassau business at centre of legal battle

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

A LEGAL battle has erupted among one of Nassau’s most prominent families that centres on a long-standing Bahamian business with a corporate history dating back 60 years to before Majority Rule. Legal documents obtained by Tribune Business reveal that the descendants of Sir Milo Butler, the first Bahamian governor-general, are locked in a dispute over the economic benefits different family factions have

received over the decades from Milo B. Butler & Sons.

The estate of Raleigh Butler, Sir Milo’s eldest child and the late owner of Butler’s Funeral Home and Crematorium, in a June 7, 2023, legal claim are alleging that their father - and now themselves - have been “disenfranchised” after purported actions by his brother, the late Franklyn Butler senior, saw the estate receive less dividends and returns than it is actually entitled to.

Alleging that Franklyn Butler’s estate later effected two “unauthorised transfers”,

‘Historic first’: Dionisio teams with Sir Franklyn

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

SIR Franklyn Wilson yesterday hailed as an “historic first” the involvement of two former tourism ministers as investors in a project aiming to become “the Bahamian destination of choice for the most discerning” traveller.

Confirming that Dionisio D’Aguilar has become the latest to invest in his Eleuthera-based Jack’s Bay development, the Sunshine Holdings and Arawak Homes chairman asserted that the move “sends a very strong signal” that boosts the project’s “credence and credibility”.

The Minnis administration’s former tourism and aviation minister is now poised to join one of

his predecessors, Tommy Turnquest, on the Board of Jack’s Bay Resort Development and its parent,

Eleuthera Properties, and Sir Franklyn argued that his participation is “a remarkable statement of confidence in the future of The Bahamas”.

Mr D’Aguilar, who is thought to be out of the country, could not be reached for comment despite Tribune Business calls and messages to his mobile phone. The dollar value of his investment, and size of the equity stake he will take, were not disclosed by Sir Franklyn or in

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EU backlist threat to storm claims payouts

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Writer fsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE ATTORNEY General yesterday warned that European reinsurers could withhold up to 25 percent of claims payouts for hurricane victims unless The Bahamas escapes the continent’s tax blacklist.

Ryan Pinder KC, addressing the Senate, voiced optimism that this nation will sufficiently address the European Union’s (EU) economic substance reporting concerns in time to be removed from the blacklist this November, but nevertheless disclosed that failure could undermine The Bahamas’ efforts to rebuild in the aftermath

of a Dorian-type disaster given the reliance on European reinsurers to pay a substantial portion of insurance claims.

He explained that European reinsurers apply a 25 percent withholding on

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FTX chief targets Bahamas property ‘misappropriation’

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

FTX’s founder and two of his closest associates were last night accused of “misappropriating” some $4.86m of client monies to acquire high-end Bahamian real estate that they subsequently put in their personal names.

John Ray, the FTX US chief who controls 134 entities in Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, charged that Sam Bankman-Fried together with Gary Wang, the collapsed crypto exchange’s chief technology officer, and Nishad Singh, its engineering head, had

participated in “fraudulent transfers” relating to Bahamian condominiums each had purchased.

“Bankman-Fried, Wang and Singh also used debtor assets to purchase luxury condominiums for themselves on top of the other luxury real estate purchased by the FTX group for defendants and their friends and families,” Mr Ray charged in his latest lawsuit, filed in the Delaware Bankruptcy Court.

“In April 2021, BankmanFried, Wang and Singh each entered into agreements to purchase condominium units at an oceanfront complex in The Bahamas.

collectively involving almost 600 shares in Milo B. Butler & Sons, between 2009 and 2012 following his passing, the claim also asserts that “millions of dollars” worth of real estate in New Providence, Grand Bahama and Andros belonging to Milo B. Butler & Sons was transferred without Board and/or shareholder approval in 2019.

Raleigh’s estate, which is alleging “fraudulent breach of trust” and “breach of fiduciary” against Franklyn senior’s estate and four corporate entities in the Milo B. Butler & Sons group, is seeking a Supreme Court verdict and Order to enable it to recover these “unpaid dividends”. The amount it is seeking along with damages is not specified.

The claim was certified by Craig F. M. Butler, an attorney and son of Raleigh, and also one of Sir Milo’s grandsons.

One of Raleigh’s daughters is former Cabinet minister and MP, Loretta Butler-Turner, who for a short time prior to the 2017 general election became Opposition leader in the House of Assembly

after ousting Dr Hubert Minnis from the role.

However, Franklyn Butler senior’s estate and another of the corporate defendants, BFG Investments Holdings, vehemently denied all the allegations made by Raleigh’s estate in defences filed with the Supreme Court on July 11, 2023. Blasting the claim for failing to provide any evidence or proof to back up its fraud allegations, they slammed it as “not sufficiently particularised” for them to provide a detailed response.

Arguing that much of the claim was statute-barred under the Limitation Act 1995, as it related to events decades ago and thus had not been filed with the Supreme Court within the required time, Franklyn Butler senior’s estate said “all company resolutions” relating to Milo B. Butler & Sons had been passed lawfully in accordance with its Articles of Association.

And, in particular, it argued that Raleigh’s estate “cannot

BPL: From ‘dramatic savings’ to sky-high bills in three years

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMAS Power & Light (BPL) has gone from “dramatic savings” on its fuel costs that have been hailed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to sky-high electricity bills in just three years. The multilateral lender, recalling what was, in a recently-released paper branded the fuel hedging initiative that was launched under the former Minnis administration as “highly effective” just as Bahamian businesses and households grapple with energy rates that have increased by 71 percent in just nine months. IDB management, in a document responding to an independent assessment

on the effectiveness of its 2018-2022 Bahamas country strategy, said it was unfair to determine that it made “no contribution” to supporting fiscal consolidation due to its work with state-owned enterprises (SOEs) such as BPL and the Water & Sewerage Corporation.

“Management would like to note that stateowned enterprises’ (SOEs)

financial performance is critical to overall fiscal performance,” the IDB said. “The water programme with the Water and Sewerage Corporation successfully lowered the expenses of this SOE. Similarly, consideration should also be given to the electricity utility, Bahamas Power and Light (BPL).

“Although the Bank did not work directly on subsidies, the support given to the energy transition via renewable energy is expected to improve longer-term financial sustainability. In addition, the bank supported the utility company through a highly effective oil hedge programme that significantly reduced the cost of fuel and

RYAN PINDER KC

SIR FRANKLYN WILSON

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