WOMAN&HEALTH
‘JAIL RISK’ IF YOU SUPPLY CANNABIS
AG: A person caught with less than an ounce can still face penalties
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
ALTHOUGH the Davis administration plans to decriminalise possession of up to one ounce of cannabis with a fixed penalty of $250, Attorney General Ryan Pinder warned that people with this amount could still face far stiffer penalties if they intend to distribute the drug. His comment in the Senate came before senators passed a compendium of bills moving the country closertolegalisingcannabis for medical and religious purposes. The legislation does not
‘HOMICIDE BY MANSLAUGHTER’ RULED IN JOHNSON INQUEST
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
CORONER’S Court jurors have ruled that police committed homicide by manslaughter when they killed Valentino Johnson,42,afteracarchaseon SevenHillRoadlastyear.
Police claimed the deceased brandished a weapon at them before a high-speed chase that endedwithJohnson’sdeath onApril16,2023. Inquests do not determine criminal liability, but the adverse finding will prompt Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Cordell Frazier to consider whether to charge police
POLICE CHIEF’S REPLY CONFUSING OVER POLICE SHOOTING INQUESTS
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net
POLICE Commissioner
Clayton Fernander gave a confusing response when questioned about his failure to reveal or act on the
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ recommendations concerning several police-involved killing cases that had adverse findings in the Coroner’s Court.
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
POLICE Commissioner
Clayton Fernander said “UK partners” have asked for documents relating to the Royal Bahamas Police
Force’s investigation of voice notes purporting to capture a quid-pro-quo arrangement involving a seniorpoliceofficer,alawyer, a murdered gang leader andhismurderedfriend.
RECOVERING AFTER SUCCESSFUL SCIATICA SURGERY
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis’ surgery in the United States to address compression of his sciaticnervewassuccessful, according to Health MinisterDrMichaelDarville. He said the procedure
was straightforward and anticipatedapositiverecoveryperiod. “The health and wellbeingofournation’sleaders are of the utmost importance, and we appreciate the efforts of the medical
professionals involved in the prime minister’s treatment and care,” he said, adding that Mr Davis is resting comfortably and recoveringwell.
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander displays a firearm which is suspected of being used to commit a recent homicide during a press conference at the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) Headquarters yesterday.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Activist
says his dogs are ‘a part of the family’
ACTIVIST Joseph Darville has long shown his love for our environment - and now he has joined in our Love Ya Dog campaign call to look after our animals.
Mr Darville said: “We have always had dogs in our lives - anywhere from one or two, to six at one time over the years - of various breeds, and our beloved Bahamian Potcakes... they are treated as part of our family - and taken care of and given attention as any family member would be. They are well socialised and taught mannerly behaviour so we can enjoy more time with them, and they can be included in as many fun family activities and public interactions as are safe for them. They especially enjoy spending a whole day lounging and playing on the beach with us.”
He added: “The real joy of dog ownership - the loyalty, love, comfort, and affection one will experience owning a dog or multiple dogs can only come with spending quality time with them every day... getting to know and enjoy their individual personalities, their intelligence, and forming that special bond of affection one can only get from
loving and caring for a pet.
“I am privileged to serve as president of the Grand Bahama Humane Society where so many abandoned and rescued animals are continuously being cared for by the hardworking and caring staff at the shelter. These dogs, and cats, are waiting to bring so much joy to persons who will give them a safe and loving home, and make them a fully integrated part of their family.”
The Love Ya Dog campaign encourages dog owners to take care of their pets - and we are calling on readers to join in.
We want to encourage those who do treat their pets well to show them off - and by doing so letting others see a better way to treat their pets.
CARE TIP: Animals do not yearn to be parents, or get “married”, spay and neuter your pet to avoid all the unwanted animals that are wandering the island looking for food. It is the correct community minded thing to do.
• Send us a picture of you with your dogs to loveyadog@tribunemedia.net to join the campaign and show that you Love Ya Dog.
PM RECOVERING AFTER SUCCESSFUL SCIATICA SURGERY
from page one
It is not clear when Mr Davis will return to the Bahamas.
Dr Darville said on Friday that Mr Davis had battled sciatica for a few monthsandsufferedexcruciating pain in one of his legswhenhestood.
The Cleveland Clinic says sciatica involves irritation, inflammation, pinching or compression that affects one or more nerves running down the lower back and into the legs. The condition is not considered serious, but severe cases require surgery.
Chester Cooper will continue acting as prime minister while Mr Davis is away.
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
BPL’s senior manager of corporate communications, Arnette Ingraham, said work had been underway on weekends for the last fiveweeks.
“This exercise allowed us to improve the reliability for our customers in the eastern area of New Providence, who experienced boutsofsupplyinterruption
BAHAMAS Power & Light (BPL) said disruptive worksontheEasternRoad were completed over the weekend. Drivers had to take alternative routes. The roadworks involved laying underground lines. Some residents complained about the minimal signs alerting themtodetours.
afewmonthsago,”shesaid.
“New underground lines werelaidtoaddressseveral faults previously identified and to provide redundancy (back-up) in case of future faults impacting service in thatarea.”
She said BPL understandstheneedtocomplete repaving work and is working with partners to expeditethissothatnormal trafficflowcanresume. BPL work on Eastern Road finished but road repairs not yet completed
ACTIVIST Joseph Darville and his family shown here with some of their many dogs who are treated lovingly as family members, he says.
PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
‘Jail risk’ if you supply cannabis
DEPP
from page one
sanction recreational marijuana use in any context, but those found with up to 30 grams of the substance would face a fixed penalty of $250, which would not appear on their criminal record.
However, Mr Pinder cautioned that people are “sorely mistaken” if they think having such amounts ofcannabiswouldautomaticallyresultinaticket.
“Even if you have less than an ounce, if your actions or your methodology of possession or otherwise demonstrate an intent to supply, then the lawwillviewyouashaving a forbidden substance with the intent to supply,” he said.
He described a hypothetical situation where a person could have many rolled joints that, altogether,amountto30grams ofcannabis.
“Clearly, that is evidence of intent to supply, and that’s how that will be viewed,” he said. “Now, the courts will ultimately have to make the decision onthat,butfromaprosecution point of view and the police’s point of view, your actionsandhowyoupossess and how much you possess and what you possess are indicative of whether you are in simple possession or possession with intent to supply,andthatframework isunchanged.”
Under the legislation, having cannabis with the intent to supply can carry heftyfinesoraprisonterm.
Mr Pinder told TheTribune the government will now bring the legislation intoforce.
“Licences won’t be able to be issued, and applications won’t be able to be receiveduntiltheCannabis
Authority is constituted, the digital portal has been selected and is up and running, and different protocols are developed,” he said.
“Even if you have less than an ounce, if your actions or your methodology of possession or otherwise demonstrate an intent to supply, then the law will view you as having a forbidden substance with the intent to supply”
- Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Ryan Pinder KC
approved Andrew Hanna’s company to build wooded dock
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter
dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
DEPARTMENT of Environmental Planning and Protection director
Dr Rhianna Neely-Murphy approved Andrew Hanna’s construction of a wooden dock at Athol Island on February 16, according to a Certificate of Environmental Clearance Office of the Prime Minister officials sent to The Tribune over the weekend.
Dr Neely-Murphy had previously told Tribune Business no permits had beenissuedforadevelopmentonAtholIsland.
Last week, St Anne’s MP Adrian White complained about the environmental degradation of the Marine Protected Area and pressured Leon Lundy, a minister of state in OPM, tosaywhowasbehindthe project.
MrHanna’sbackground is unclear. The certificate of environmental clearance he received says there must be no dredging.
Tribune Business reported that photos taken at Athol Island showed an offshore pier and overwater building to facilitate visitors from shiptoshore.
Mr White claimed “clear-cutting has occurred” on Athol Island.
“Native caucus has been removed, and piles of barge sand materials have been deposited on this island,” he said in the House of Assembly earlierthismonth.
While showing his colleagues an outline of the island, he said serious environmental infractions had been committed and could be verified if inspectorsvisitedthearea.
He said the native limestonehadbeendemolished to create a path across muchoftheisland.
“Hereweareinourown country causing damage each and every day under thisblueprintforpainPLP administration,” he said, noting the prime minister has repeatedly called on bigger countries to take responsibility for climate change.
‘Homicide by manslaughter’ ruled in Johnson inquest
constable Samuel Ferguson and a former officer, Shando King, with a crime.
Neither officer was present during the inquest.
This is the second consecutive inquest to have an adverse finding against police and the fourth this year to return a homicide by manslaughter finding. The other six cases returned justifiable homicide findings.
Johnson’s family was visibly moved after the finding was revealed.
One relative expressed relief and called on police to crack down on bad operators. The relative said the outcome restored their confidence in the judicial system.
King was dismissed from the police force after he was charged with four counts of attempted murder in February.
In summing up the case, acting Coroner Kara Turnquest Deveaux gave jurors only two options. She said if they found the evidence showed police were justified in their actions, return
with a finding of justifiable homicide. She said if they found the evidence showed the officers were not justified in their actions, they should return with a finding of homicide by manslaughter. She did not discuss the possibility of them returning an unjustified killing finding.
Before the finding was revealed, ballistic officer Corporal Fox confirmed that King’s weapon killed Johnson.
Under questioning from evidence marshal Angelo Whitfield, Cpl Fox elaborated that the ballistic report showed that bullets from King’s gun were recovered from the deceased’s body and car.
Body camera footage aired previously in court showed King laughing as he approached the deceased’s crashed car on a vacant residence. The former officer also cursed and lamented having to turn on his camera.
The footage only showed the aftermath of the police chase.
Ryszard Humes represented the deceased’s estate.
Two men wanted by police
POLICE issued these wanted notices as part of a murder investigation. Officers are seeking Dondre Donald Ramsey, aged 28, and an unknown man. Both are described as slim,ofdarkbrowncomplexionandbetween5ft9inand5ft11in.Ramseywaslastknown ofEthelStreet,MontelHeights.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Procurement Opportunities – Posting
In accordance with the Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2023, the Ministry of Finance will publish, on July 25, 2024, procurement opportunities awarded via the Bonfire eProcurement portal, during the period December 1, 2023 – May 31, 2024.
The information will initially be posted to the following websites:
• www.bahamas.gov.bs
• mofvendors.gov.bs
Man murdered in Grand Bahama on Sunday
VALENTINO JOHNSON
DONDRE Donald Ramsey (above left) and an unknown man (above right) wanted by police.
POLICE at the scene of the country’s 71st murder Sunday night. Police reported that a man had been shot dead in Yellow Jasmine Close in Grand Bahama.
Photo: Vandyke Hepburn
GOVERNOR GENERAL, Dame Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt received Alins Hanna during a courtesy call, Friday at the Office of the Governor General.
Photo: Patrick Hanna/AP
Police chief’s reply confusing over police shooting inquests
from page one
JurorsinCoroner’sCourtinquestsdetermined that the killings of Shanton Forbes, DeangeloEvans,andDinoBaininseparate incidents were homicides by manslaughter. Since inquests do not determine criminal liability, the adverse findings prompted the DPP’sofficetoexaminewhetheranyofficer shouldbechargedwithacrime.
Acting DPP Cordell Fraizer sent her recommendations to the commissioner in early April, but the commissioner has not disclosedherinstructions.
By convention, the police always follow thedirectionsoftheDPP’soffice.
When asked if he was protecting the officersinvolved,CommissionerFernander said during a press conference yesterday: “I’m not protecting no officers. My legal department is viewing those matters, and based on the information that I’m getting fromthem,thosematterswillbeforwarded to the Coroner’s Court. So they are looking at those matters being for preliminary inquiryintothosematters,sothatmylegal teamisontopofthat,andisbeingdoneas wespeak.”
In fact, the cases have long been concludedattheCoroner’sCourt.Commissioner Fernander and press liaison Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings did not respond to questions seeking clarity on his commentsbeforepresstimeyesterday.
The commissioner’s comments come as the police force faces scepticism about its willingness to aggressively investigate officers accused of wrongdoing after voice notes purporting to capture a quid-proquo arrangement involving a senior police officer and a murdered gang leader surfacedearlierthismonth.
Evans was killed on Sandy Lane in Mason’sAdditiononMay27,2018.
Three officers shot Forbes in Yellow ElderonMarch15,2019.
FERNANDER: POLICE BELIEVE RECENT MURDER VICTIMS TARGETED, AND TWO ARE CONNECTED
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter
ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
POLICE Commis-
sioner Clayton Fernander said police believe recent murder victims were targeted and that two of the incidents were connected.
At least seven people have been murdered since Thursday.
During a press conference yesterday, Commissioner Fernander said the shootings were not random.
He said some victims were on bail, but could not recall which.
His press conference came just hours after a woman was found lying dead in the street just west of Roker’s Service Station with multiple stab wounds to her body. Her suspected boyfriend
is in custody after what police said was a domestic matter.
Commissioner Fernander said up to a few weeks ago, police believed they detected more than 70 percent of murders. He said that the rate has dropped to the low-to-mid 60s after the recent murders.
He said evidence suggests the July 16 murder of Neil Miller is connected to the July 18 double homicides of Jamie Tynes and Adrian Edgecombe. He said the motive for the double homicide is unclear, but did not want to specify how the two incidents might be connected.
Police have released two wanted posters for murder suspects.
“We are viewing our strategy with a view of
boosting up our presence out there,” Commissioner Fernander said.
Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner Zhivago Dames renewed his call for people to give police access to their surveillance systems.
“Once again, we are pleading to you,” he said.
“You have an opportunity now to assist the Royal Bahamas Police Force in solvingsomeofthesematters, and one of the major ways that you can do that is by registering your cameras with the Royal Bahamas Police Force.”
“We once again assure you that that information that comes to us, we no longer have to come into your residence to retrieve that information. You can send that information to us via the system that we are using.”
UK asks for documents in police corruption probe
from page one
The Tribune reported earlier this month that police have asked the Metropolitan Police of the UnitedKingdomtoassistin investigatingthematter.
The status of that help is unclear, but during a press conference yesterday, Commissioner Fernandersaid:“Theinvestigators are making some excellent progress in the investigation. They are also in communication with our UK partners, who have
asked for some documents, andtheyaredoingjustthat, and they are in communication with them. So that matter is well in hand and hopefully, we will be able to continue to update you as we continue to progress withrespecttothatmatter.”
Chief Superintendent of Police Michael Johnson, previously in charge of the Central Intelligence Department, has taken garden leave as police investigate matters surrounding five voice notes thatleakedthismonth.
The recordings feature a well-known lawyer and two recently murdered gang members: Michael Fox Jr, andDinoSmith. Commissioner Fernander has said the Security and Intelligence Branch is investigatingthematterand that the Police Complaints Inspectorate will oversee thebranch.
The commissioner could not confirm if the FBI wouldbeinvolved. He said the investigation willbecompletedina“reasonabletime”.
Ruby Louise Livingstone Roker, 85
a resident of Theodora Lane will be held on Wednesday, July 24th, 2024, 10:00 a.m. at St Matthews Anglican Church, Shirley Street. OfficiatingwillbeTheRev’d.Canon Basil Tynes, The Rev’d. Fr. Scott Jupp assisted by other members of the Clergy. IntermentwillfollowatLakeviewMemorial Gardens, John F. Kennedy Drive.
She was predeceased by her husband: A. Loftus Roker.
She is survived by her sister: Laura Cartwright; nephews: Anthony Clarke Sr., Canon Basil (Sonia) & Peter Tynes and Jerome Knowles; nieces: Anita & Allison Knowles; grand nieces and nephews: Tonya, Levar and Anthony Clarke Jr., Benjavarae & Christon Tynes, Ashley Virginia Tynes Garcia, Shanthonique Smith, Antoine, Antonique & Shantel Clarke, Antia Rolle; brother-in-law: Leonard Roker; nephew-in-law: Dwayne Roker; nieces-in-law: Leonor and Stephanie Roker; numerous friends and family including: Natasha Huyler, Janet Dorsett, Carolyn, Seymour, Kathleen Longley, Barbara Wilson, Mavis Edgecombe-Tinker, David Barr, Lillian Beckles, Carnetta Knowles, Gregory Knowles, Patrice Knowles, Carlton Symonette, Shaniqua Newbold, Dr. Frank Walkine & Family, The Honorable Dr. Hubert A Minnis & Patricia Minnis & Family, Esther Dericka & Family, Virginia Evans & Family, Eunice Forbes & Family, Annette McPhee & Family, Sheila Norton, Paulette Walkine, Eloise Humes & Family, Dr. Eugene Gray and Staff, many more relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
Relatives and friends may pay their respects at Cedar Crest Funeral Home and Crematorium, Robison and Baillou Hill Roads on(TODAY) Tuesday from 12:00 noon to 5:00p.m. and at the church on Wednesday from 9:00a.m. until service time.
POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander during a press conference at the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) Headquarters yesterday.
Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
The Tribune Limited
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Why the confusion on DPP recommendations? PICTURE
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AS the police force faces scrutiny following accusations towards senior levels of the force following a series of voice notes that circulated on social media, the last thing we need is any kind of confusion over where investigations stand.
Since early April, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander has had recommendations on his desk from the Director of Public Prosecutions over what to do in cases involving police-involved killings.
Jurors at the Coroner’s Court found that the killings of Shanton Forbes, Deangelo Evans and Dino Bain were homicides by manslaughter.
The Acting DPP, Cordell Frazier, hasdoneherjobandprovidedherrecommendations to the commissioner.
Yesterday, Commissioner Fernander was questioned about it – and his answer did nothing but muddy the waters.
Routinely, when the DPP recommends something, the police follow that suggestion.
But for these officer-involved shootings, the commissioner seems to be saying he is doing something else.
He said his legal department is reviewing the recommendations – and suggested that they will be forwarded to the Coroner’s Court.
Here is the thing, though – the Coroner’s Court has concluded its consideration of the cases. The jurors have decided. The ruling has been delivered. The next step is whether or not there will be criminal proceedings based on those findings.
To send it back to the Coroner’s Court would be unusual indeed, rather than follow whatever the DPP has suggested.
Perhaps the commissioner was confused himself on the matter – but The Tribune reached out with further questions to clarify, with no response.
The actual decision is one thing, the length of time it is taking to arrive at it is another. Family members have
spoken to The Tribune, wondering why this decision takes so long in comparison to other court cases that have proceeded while they are left waiting.
As you can read in today’s Tribune, another ruling at the Coroner’s Court has found a police-involved shooting to be homicide by manslaughter.
What does this say for the likelihood that the police probe into alleged corruption will proceed with clarity and in good time?
Meanwhile, as he deals with matters on that front, the streets continue to be a violent place, with a series of murders since Thursday pushing the year’s toll to 71 so far, or a murder just over every two and a half days.
The commissioner has a lot on his plate – and at yesterday’s press conference, the police repeated the call for the public to support them in their efforts to tackle crime, including by sharing access to CCTV footage.
The police do need our help, and our support, though perhaps the force could also be more open about how it shares body camera footage with the public too.
That kind of openness might encourage the public to reciprocate.
The inquest that just concluded featured an officer laughing and asking why a senior officer was making him turn his camera on – hardly the kind of behaviour that encourages a belief that such recording procedures are being handled respectfully.
The force needs to hold its own to account just as much – if not more – than those it seeks to tackle on the streets. When officers fall short in their actions, that needs to be addressed.
Dealing with those recommendations over police-involved shootings should be a priority. Not doing so raisesdoubtsoverhowtheforcedeals with inquiries into police as a whole. The commissioner should be sure to not let such doubts grow.
Weed will be legal by next election
EDITOR,TheTribune.
A LOT of fuss over the Marijuana Medicinal Act, yes fuss as there is no proof to ascertain certain Ministers spoke... yes healing - pain relief positive,but...Iseethisas step one to fully legalising marijuana by 2026 which conveniently is when the next election has to occur. With the use level probably for the age grouping 10-60 years at a 65-75 percent regular use,
politically a strong plank for the PLP agenda... New Day last time, wonder what their people will come up with in 2026?
Yes, law will cover trafficking... possessing amounts which obviously would not be for personal use … yes you may propagate (grow a max of say 10 plants)... can’t sell, but politically might swing some folk to the PLP. Remember how PM Christie orchestrated illegal Numbers to
Time to institute rent control
EDITOR,TheTribune.
AS the sun sets over our beautiful islands, the once attainable Bahamian dream of financial stability and homeownership seems to be fading into a distant memory for many. The rising cost of living, particularlytheexorbitant rental prices, is pushing the average Bahamian to the brink. It’s time for our government to take decisive action and institute Rent Control to provide much-needed relief.
In the Over Hill community, rental prices have skyrocketed to $600 to $750 per month. Moving to southern and eastern New Providence, you’re looking at $800 to $1800 monthly. In WesternNewProvidence,rents are an astronomical $2000 to $4000 a month. These prices are not just numbers; they represent an overwhelmingburdenthat many Bahamians cannot bear. Shockingly, the cost torentisnowoftenhigher than a mortgage payment. Yet, with salaries stagnating, the dream of owning a home remains out of reach for most, making renting the only viable option for the average Bahamian.
Adding to the financial strain is the Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed on everypurchase.Thistaxis
legalising? Today if challenged in court I suggest a court would adjudge the legislation was illegal as the Rreferendum did not support the legalising… we talk about a law-abiding society? Editor - yes legalised possession - use of marijuana by next electionforsure...2026isonly two years away. One big set-up... can’t you see it?
MSIMMONDS Nassau, July2024.
exacerbating the already high cost of living. For many,eatingouthastransformed from a common convenience to a rare luxury. Feeding a family of four at a fast-food restaurant can now set you back $50. Social media is awash with posts showing restaurant receipts that total hundreds of dollars for just a meal and drinks for two persons, driven up by a 15% gratuity and VAT. These added costs are more than just numbers; they represent the erosion of the Bahamian way of life.
A potential solution lies within the government’s power: reducing or eliminating VAT on dining. The restaurant industry is inherently risky, with high overheads and slim profit margins. High tax charges deter customers, threatening the viability of these businesses and potentially leading to closures. A reduction or removal of VAT on dining could stimulate the industry, encouraging more patronage and ensuring that dining out remains an accessible option for the average Bahamian.
Imagine the relief and economic stimulation that Rent Control and VAT adjustments could bring. These measures would not only alleviate the financial strain on families, but also provides a more vibrant and sustainable local economy. The government has a duty to ensure that the Bahamian dream remains within reach for all its citizens. We urge our leaders to act swiftly and decisively to address these pressing issues.
ThecostoflivinginThe Bahamasismorethanjust an economic concern; it’s a matter of preserving our way of life. Let’s ensure that every Bahamian has the opportunity to thrive, not just survive. By instituting Rent Control and reassessing VAT on dining, we can take significant steps towards easing the financial burden on our people. Let us not allow the Bahamian dream to become an unattainable fantasy. Together, we can advocate for change andworktowardsafuture where financial stability andthejoyoflivinginour beautiful islands are realities for all.
HEATHER W McDONALD Nassau, July2024.
Not seeing profits from cruise ships
EDITOR,TheTribune.
water park will cause further diminishing returns for them.
Many visitors continue to tell local people that they are told not to bring cash into Nassau as it is a “dangerous” location. It is better for the passengers to stay on board the ship and pay for activities there. Many passengers feel apprehensive about walking around Nassau as a result of these lies. The Government needs to express in strong terms to the cruise ship
operators that passengers are safe visiting Nassau. Their employees must stop the lies. Now is the time for the Bahamian government to adopt a sterner attitude to the cruise ship companies. Our Bahamian people need to benefit from such tourism, or why do we want all these ships here?
RICHARDJOHNSON Nassau, July2024.
AN OCTOPUS photographed in an aquarium.
Photo: Qijin Xu
Laroda praying year-long ‘Stronger Families Campaign’ will have a transformative impact
MINISTER of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting Myles K LaRodasaiditishisfervent prayer that the ministry’s year-long ‘Stronger FamiliesCampaign’willresonate so deeply that there will be a gradual transformation in communities.
He said: “One where conflict would be resolved without violence; where guns would be put down; where our young men and women would see value in an honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work; where
young persons would be responsible in the choices they make, recognising that every decision has a consequence-beitgoodorbad.”
Mr LaRoda spoke during achurchserviceonMonday, July22,forstaffoftheMinistry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting as part of activities commemorating National Family Week throughout The Bahamas. The service was held at Bahamas HarvestChurch,RNDPlaza.
Scheduled for July 25-31, National Family Week
seeks to strengthen the family structure, a structure which officials say has been placed under threat, and weakenedovertimebyway ofincreasedlevelsofabuse, violent crime, disasters, divorce and financial challenges,amongothers. Events scheduled include a family empowerment forum on Thursday; a family sports and entertainment fun day for Saturday at the Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium, and a men’s empowerment forumonJuly29.
MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER AND INTENT TO ENDANGER LIFE
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 23-YEAR-OLD man was remanded in custody yesterday accused of beinginvolvedinadouble shooting outside a Nassau Street club where one manwaskilledlastweek.
Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley arraigned TraceyRussellformurder, attempted murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. Thedefendantappeared before the magistrate usingcrutches.
Russell was reportedly involved in an argument with 28-year-old Travase Williams and 42-year-old Mackenson Mitchell on July14.
Russell is accused of opening fire on both men as they stood outside the club before he was shot in the leg and upper body by former police officerDesirBien.
Bien was charged with causing dangerous harm and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life last week. At the time of the shooting, he was not authorised to fire his weapon because
he was on suspension. The 41-year-old Bien has since been relieved of his duties.
While the two victims were treated in hospital, Williams died of his multiple gunshot injuries. Mitchell reportedly only suffered an injury to his lowerbody.
The defendant was told that his case would proceedtotheSupremeCourt by way of a voluntary bill ofindictment(VBI).
Russell will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until his VBI is served on November21.
MAN CHARGED WITH MOLESTING 12-YEAR-OLD BOY
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 40-YEAR-OLD man waschargedyesterdaywith molesting a 12-year-old boyfourtimesbetweenthe springandthesummer. Chief Magistrate
RobertoReckleyarraigned Terry Sears on four counts ofsexualintercoursewitha minorofthesamesex.
The defendant allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse with the underage boy between April 1 and June29inNewProvidence.
Thechiefmagistratetold
Sears his matter would be referred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary billofindictment(VBI).
The accused will be remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until his VBI is served on November21.
JAMAICAN WOMAN ACCUSED OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A JAMAICAN woman was jailed yesterday after shewasonceagainaccused ofhumantrafficking.
Apolonia McLean, 34, was convicted and sentenced to three years and eight months for a similar offencein2014.
Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley arraigned her for three counts of traffickinginpersons. McLean allegedly transported a woman to New Providence to exploit her between September 1, 2023, and November 3, 2023. Last week, the police circulated a wanted poster regarding the defendant’s charges. McLean previously served a prison term for similarchargesin2015.She
had trafficked a Jamaican woman into the country andwithheldherdocumentation to exploit her into prostitutionin2013
The defendant was told her matter would be transferred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary billofindictment(VBI).
McLean will return to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until her VBI is issued on November21.
Funeral Service For
Errol Johnson, 95
ofEastwoodwhodiedonTuesday,July16,2024will be held on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 2:00pm at St. Anne’s Anglican Church, Fox Hill. Officiating will be Archdeacon, The Ven. Hugh A. Bartlett Jr., Rector assisted by Retired Archdeacon, The Ven. G. Kingsley Knowles and the Clergy. Interment will follow in the Church’s Cemetery.
Left to cherish his memories are his adopted daughters: Annie (Colin), Derry (Cavalle), Dellarese (Alonza AKA Junior); nephew: Garfield Johnson (Alvira), Rudolph Powell, Roy Powell, James “Jimmy” Johnson (Sandra), Phillip Johnson, James R. Woodside Jr., Sherman (Eltoy) and Keith Moss (Rita); nieces: Maria Storr, Willamae Hepburn (William), Pamela Mullings, Teresita Johnson, Dorlean Duford, Odessia Sweeting, Arthellia Powell (Isaacs), Joyce Gaitor (John), Audrey Powell, Ann Bain (The Very Revd. Harry J. L. Bain), Cynthia Edgecombe (Stefan), Nadine Bowleg (Mario), Andrea Culmer, Debra Rolle, Deborah Williams, Mildred Fox (Fr. Mark Fox) and Maryann Nottage, Shirlyn Hunt, Norma Fynes, Teresita Ward; grand nephews: Chuck (Cleora), Shadwell, Freddie, Micheal, Jonathan, Gregory, Jeffery,Ashely, Patrick, Dereck, Geronimo, Hosanna, Shadrack, Benson, Leroy andAdam, Florentino, Carols, Antonio, Demetrius, Marco (Jurelle), Charlton, Maurice, Quincy, Marvin, Floyd, Marlon, Stg. 954William, Jamaal, Sean, Murell, Cassius, David, Donovan, Andre, James III, Lavado; grand nieces: Less, Stephine, Susan, Constable #2034 Paulette Douglas, Belinda, Mellisa, Jamie,Angelique (Shawn), Dutchess DeloacheAKAFirstinea, FurlenaAKZAZetta, Dellareese, Tamara, Tamika, Chef Nicholas (Lyndon) Davan, LaTia, ToToya, Apryl, (Marco), Tanya (Samuel), Temima, Shameal, Denise (Robert), Vernie (Kevin), Raquel, Shavonne, Jill, Monique, Lavon (Daniel), Shelly (Averie), Sharry, Shanelle, Stefanie, Jariska, Rashedah, Teresa, Jasmine; great grand nephews: Franchot, Hofea, Orlando, Olonzo, Orenzo, Hubert, Clinton, Christopher, Bryan, Leroy (Elethera), Thurman, Theo, Godfrey, Charlton (Wanda), Brian (AKA BJ) (Jennifer), Witney (Kim), Razado, Illa, Travis, Sanchez, Demetrius, Tyrique, Ranaldo, Antonio, Latrell, Donvete, Stephon, Timagze, Javar, Richard, Romair; great grand nieces: Kera (Eddie), Tina, Oshima, Abigale, Shaneka, Shakera, Aderia, Jennifer, Anitiqua, Alexia, Ashala, Antonnesia, Jillian, Keithra, Megan, Odeshia, Jarlisa AKA DeAndre; great great great grand nephews and nieces: Ezera, Grace, Ashlynn, Zion, Eric, Sophia, Xzavier, Alliyah, Elijah, Alexander, Elle, Constable 3119 Kenton, Lashie, Shade, Shante, Jania, Annaid, Claire, Charlton II, Wynter, Sanchino, Sanchez, K’Mya, Valention Dean Jr., Quinton, Jason, Shekinah, Trai-Andrew, Zoe, Sky, Krysia, Ra’Leya, Layah, Egypt, Hop, Keior, Brielle, Breanna, Theanna, Theo Jr., Terrion, Erin, Raine, Thurmen Jr., Phea, Sanyiah, Sanchez Jr., Ashton, Trane, Treasure, Daston, Makhic, Dmeliah, Leonardo, Darelle (aka Job), Alica (aka Princess), Kevanya (aka Percious), Olandria, Olandie, Omari, Brandon, Bryan Jr., Christain, Christinique; great great great great grand nephew: Kiyami Dean; special friends: Dieula Medena (AKA Julia his Caregiver), Varnell Bowel (caregiver), David Rolle, Gaynell Bullard, Mrs. Carolyn Seymour, Deirdre Maycock, Family of the late Miriam Symonette (Cousin), Micheal, Marie, Frances, Phillip, Rosemary, Peter, Mr. & Mrs. Miller (neighbor), Mrs. Fernander (neighbor) Mrs. Gaitor (neighbor) Rosette (neighbor); special thanks: Archdeacon Venerable Hugh Barlette and the Members of St. Anne’s Anglican Church, especially the Members of the Usher Board, Fr. Noel Clarke and the Members of St. Anselm’s Catholic Church, St. Mathew Day Care Centre and St. Joseph Day Care Centre. The Nuns at St Martin’s Monastery.
Viewing will be held in the Legacy Suite of Vaughn O. Jones Memorial Center, Mt. Royal Avenue and Talbot Street on (TODAY) Tuesday from 3:00pm to 5:00pm and on Tuesday at the Church from 1:00pm until service time.
MINISTER of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting Myles LaRoda. Photos: Eric Rose/BIS
Fostering long-lasting ties with American communities
Two giants of Bahamians who shined brightly abroad
TWO giants, both instrumental in fuelling
The Bahamas’ unique connection with the United States of America, recently took their wings. Dr William “Bill” F Pickard and Dr Enid Curtis-Pinkney played instrumental roles in fostering long-lasting ties between Bahamian and Americancommunities.
This week, as the 28th Annual International African American Hotel and Investment Summit and Trade Show takes place in Miami, their memories will shine brightly. The Summit, hosted by the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators and Developers (NABHOOD), brings together some of the brightest minds in the hotel industry, and creates opportunities for greater investment and partnership.
NABHOOD president Dr Andy Ingraham, an Eleuthera native, would have loved to welcome Drs Pickard and Pinkney once again for one of the mostpower-packedweeks in the city of Miami. The NABHOOD Summit is followed by the 11th annual International Multicultural & Heritage Tourism Summit & Trade Show and the 3rd annualBahamasDiaspora Pioneer Awards Dinner. These three events will take place from July 24 - 28, 2024 at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay, Miami,Florida.
Dr Pickard, one of America’s most successful black entrepreneurs, supported NABHOOD’s Summit over the years by presenting on panels that helped to elevate the mindset of participants and give them practical tools and tips for entrepreneurial success. A big proponent of tertiary education, Dr Pickard has impacted the lives of thousands of young people by providing scholarships, mainly for Historically Black Colleges and Universities throughouttheUSA. This benevolence also extended to Bahamian students. Dr. Pickard’s support for the education of Bahamians began with a beautiful story. Former Governor General Sir
Face to Face
By FELICITY DARVILLE
CASmithandDrPickard met on a beach in Grand Bahama some fifty years ago. They struck up a friendship that stood the testoftime.Apartofthe reason for this success was because they made a commitment to work together to create scholarship opportunities for youngpeople.
Students chosen from The Bahamas and from Michigan would not only receive scholarships, but they would gain valuable internship experience together and in the process, they would gain strong friendships and alliances.
This spirit of friendship between Sir Cornelius and Dr Pickard is one that is impressed upon the scholarship recipients, all high achievers, because strong alliances set early on in one’s professional career is one of the keys to success. Over the years, the Smith Pickard Scholarship focused on areas such as hospitality, through a partnership with the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators and Developers (NABHOOD); climate change andagriculture.
In September of 2023, the Smith Pickard Foundation hosted a luncheon atWildThymeRestaurant tocelebratethefivelatest scholarship recipientsthree Bahamians and two Americans-allgivingtestimonyofthetremendous impactthescholarshiphas had on their lives. Two of the students are focusing on Agriculture, including AronE.Francis,whowas the valedictorian of the Bahamas Agriculture & Marine Science Institute (BAMSI)Classof2020. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University(FAMU)PresidentDr Larry Robinson, and the Dean of Agriculture and FoodSciences,DrRobert W Taylor, a Bahamian son of the soil, expressed
sincere gratitude for the workoftheSmithPickard Foundation to invest in agricultural education for Bahamianstudents.
The Smith Pickard Foundation also assisted Dr Ingraham in supporting scholarships for Bahamian students in otherareas,includingaviation and early childhood education.
DrPickard’saffinityfor TheBahamaswassogreat that he served for a time asthehonoraryconsulfor The Bahamas in Detroit. Inthisposition,hehelped to forge important ties, partnerships and linkages that aided Bahamians in education and in business pursuits in the state of Michigan.
Further south, a tiny lady with a firecracker spirit was making sure people all throughout Florida knew about The Bahamas. Dr Enid Pinkney was an advocate for the Bahamian American connection. She made sure that communities throughout Floridawereawareofthe impact Bahamians had on the formation of their communities.
Miami’s charter, first signedtoofficiallymakeit a city, included the signatures of Bahamians, who were the majority in the group signing the charter. AreaslikeFlagler,Lemon
City, Key West and many others owe their foundations to the early Bahamiansettlers.
Dr Ingraham referred to Dr Pinkney as a “South Florida Diaspora Trailblazer and former educator who has left a legacy of commitment to community and The Bahamas.
“Her enduring dedication to the community and the preservation of Bahamian heritage has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her,” Dr Ingrahamsaid.
“Dr Pinkney was not only a beloved educator, butalsoavisionaryleader who tirelessly worked to uplift and empower her community. Her career spanned several decades, during which she inspired countless students with her passion for learning and her unwavering belief in their potential. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, as she played a pivotal role in various community initiativesaimedatfostering cultural pride and unity.
A staunch advocate for the preservation of Bahamian heritage, her family is from Exuma and was instrumental in numerous projects that celebrated the rich history and traditionsoftheBahamas.”
Dr Pinkney was a firstgeneration Miamian of Bahamian parentage. She graduated from Booker T Washington High School before enrolling in Talladega College. She earned a Master’s degree from Barry University and received an honorary Doctorate from Florida InternationalUniversity. When she was in her 70s, she bravely stood in front of bulldozers to save the Hampton House, where Dr Martin Luther King practised his speeches, where MalcolmXcametorelax,and Muhammad Ali freely celebrated. The building eventually became an historic landmark in April 2002.
Ihadtheopportunityto dance to Junkanoo with her during the Bahamas Diaspora Pioneer Awards Dinner2023,notknowing
that it would be the last time I would see her. She saw my 50th anniversary Independence pin from the National Independence Secretariat. She loved it, and I pinned it onherasshetoldmehow important it is to keep Bahamian history alive in South Florida, especially in the face of the increase and extent of other cultures with larger populations.
She received her award that evening and thanks to the Bahamas Diaspora Association, she got her flowers that night, while shestilllived.
When you read of the lives of these two great individuals, you will be inspired.Youmayalsoask how they found the time to do so much in their lives. They utilised their passion and their faith to fuel them to do extraordinary things. Hopefully, they are now dancing together to the cowbells, whistles and goat skinned drums that are playing for them, because they touched the lives of so manyBahamians.
DR Enid Pinkney at age 91 at the 2023 Bahamas Diaspora Awards at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay, with NABHOOD president Dr Andy Ingraham looking on.
The pleasure of returning to familiar surroundings
WITH so much significant international news in the media almost daily, there is no shortage of fresh material to comment on in this weekly column.
One important example was US President Biden’s withdrawal on Sunday from the presidential election race. But, having recently returned from a visit to England, I should like, as earlier planned, to write about that trip today – and, in particular, about Britain’s general election which took place on July 4. BACK TO FAMILIAR HAUNTS
Our trip to England did not begin well. One evening last month, the overnight British Airways flight to London on which my wife and I were booked was cancelled, literally at the last minute.
The passengers were not only already at the airport but we were on the point of boarding when, with no earlier hint of any problem, the BA captain suddenly appeared in front of the assembled passengers and announced that because of a technical fault our flight could not leave as scheduled that evening. The vociferous reaction of some of our fellow passengers was predictable. But, I wonder whether others like me were only too glad that the fault, whatever it was, had been discovered in advance of the flight rather than during the course of it - at 30,000 feet in the darkness of a long night halfway across the Atlantic. What is more, my wife and I could simply go home again and not suddenly have to find a hotel at midnight though we admitted to ourselves that such selfish thoughts were hardly very admirable. The flight duly left the next evening so all was not lost despite the substantial, though
DURING our visit to the UK, much was happening, in addition to the election, on the sporting front as well. True sporting aficionados in Britain tend to boast that everything in the sporting world originated in their famous islands and they are often genuinely disappointed – if not supposedly outraged - when, in the real world, British individuals and teams are defeated in some sport or other by foreigners. But the breadth of British involvement and success in a variety of sports cannot be denied.
To name a few major events during this July, the Wimbledon tennis championships (the most famous in the world) were on; England’s football team was prospering in Euro24 - the European championships held every four years - but eventually lost to Spain in the final; the Open golf championship, one of the four “majors” of world golf, was taking place in Scotland; England’s rugby team lost narrowly to New Zealand’s famous All Blacks at Eden Park in Auckland, the tabernacle of NZ
temporary, inconvenience.
The advantages, benefits and joys for foreigners of living in The Bahamas are, of course, well documented and widely appreciated. At the same time, however, what a pleasure it was to be able to make this summer visit again to England and to see family and friends in familiar surroundings, not least because this was something we were denied during the years of the COVID pandemic.
Soon after arriving at Heathrow we set off on the three-hour car journey to the village of Eardisland in deepest Herefordshire near the border with Wales – to which my parents had retired many years ago - to stay with family.
Rural England was looking at its best with the countryside in full bloom in high summer. It is, of course, the fickle and unpredictable weather for which Britain is known that keeps it that way, with rainfall throughout the year that is “good for the garden” but encourages families with young children, in particular, to seek sunnier and more stable
rugby; Britain’s Formula One motor Grand Prix took place at Silverstone, the nation’s famous motor racing circuit – and the only thing that prevented this MCC life member from watching England play the touring West Indies cricket team at Lord’s, the home of world cricket, was limited mobility following recent surgery. All this also led one to reflect on Britain’s broader history and the extraordinary role the nation continues to play in the world in so many different spheres. But this is not the time or place to describe what is today called the country’s “soft power” for which Britain has been ranked highly this year.
For the purposes of today’s column, suffice it to say that our summer visit to England in June and July more than lived up to my wife’s and my expectations at a personal level even though for various reasons we had to bring forward our return. It had been a good trip, but we both found that we were also glad to be back!
weather elsewhere for their own summer holidays.
In the county of Herefordshire, which is famous for its black-and-white halftimbered houses, it seems that almost at every turn there are fine views of hills, woods, fields and farmland with livestock feeding on the lush grass of rich pastures produced by the fertile red soil that helps, in turn, to produce famous Hereford beef.
Eardisland is less than an hour’s drive from the city of Hereford whose cathedral houses the famous Mappa Mundi. This medieval European map is claimed to be the largest of its kind still in existence. It is one of Britain’s finest medieval treasures and an important part of the nation’s heritage.
During this visit, it seemed from the newspapers and television that just about everything was happening in Britain all at once, including a general election on July 4. Under the Westminster system, such elections have to be held at 5-year intervals but can take place more frequently according to the choice of a sitting prime minister. They do not normally happen during the summer when people are likely to be on holiday, but this year was an exception.
How interesting it was to watch at first hand the frenetic activity of the 6-week campaign period in the run-up to polling-day itself. It is often claimed that a particular general election is a notably important one for the country. But this time such a claim was surely justified in so far as the pre-election opinion polls predicted a landslide victory for the opposition Labour Party that would herald a major change for Britain as a nation after the Tories had been in power for 14 years. As things turned out, the
polls were accurate, with Labour winning a massive majority over the sitting Conservative government. Since this has shown itself to be of interest here in The
AS noted separately on this page, having been away for a summer holiday I was not in a position to offer comment about Britain’s general election earlier this month. But, given the comprehensive world media coverage, it would be superfluous now to write about it in any detail. Nonetheless, it might be useful to offer some reflective thoughts about what was a seismic political event as the Conservatives were roundly defeated after such a long period in office – and, as already mentioned, I should also like to offer some thoughts next week about the likely policies of a Labour government under Starmer. He is Labour’s seventh prime minister in history and Britain’s fifty-eighth overall.
Briefly, with 376 seats needed for success, Labour, as widely predicted, won a crushing victory while the Conservative Party as the sitting government fell to its lowest number of seats in the modern era. The final figures of seats were Labour 412, Conservatives 121, Liberal Democrats 71 and the Scottish Nationalist Party (SNP) 10. Thus, the Lib Dems surged and the SNP collapsed while the other smaller parties each did better than expected. Labour won around a third of the votes in a relatively low turnout overall.
In the run-up to the election it was interesting to study in the UK press the background to the shockingly negative opinion polls for the Tories and
Bahamas, I have written about the election elsewhere on this page. Then, next week I intend to offer some thoughts about the new government’s policies – both
the reasoning behind their predicted heavy defeat, with many saying that the Tory leader, Rishi Sunak, was on a hiding to nothing. From reading a cross-section of news and opinion in the media, it appears that the Tories essentially lost this election rather than Labour winning it as comprehensively as they did because of the voters’ sudden great liking for Starmer and his policies. Various reports suggest that centre-right voters wanted to punish the Tories for throwing away their large 2019 majority based not just on Brexit but on their manifesto of traditional
about
have
Conservative policies which Tory governments had failed subsequently to adhere to. This - together with internal party squabbling, lack of unity and scandals including “Partygate” - seems to have pushed some exasperated Conservative supporters to vote for the right-wing Reform Party, who won five seats, or not to vote at all. Historically, Britain has shown itself to be generally a conservative (with a small ‘c’) nation opposed to extremism and marked by patriotism and family, fairness, self-reliance, personal responsibility and respect for the rule of law. Traditionally, people have trusted the Tories to represent and defend those values while Tony Blair, for example, won office for Labour in 1997 on a ticket of moderation after Party guru Peter Mandelson had moved it on to the political centre ground away from left-wing extremism.
Put simply, at this month’s election vast numbers of the electorate showed that they had become fed up with the many failures of the Tories and disappointed, if not infuriated, by the behaviour of some Conservative MPs. Moreover, the evidence showed that the quality and efficiency of public services under the direction and overall control of the Tories had deteriorated. Change was needed across-the-board and reports suggest that in parts of the country there has been widespread relief at the outcome of the election –even among some Tory supporters.
what it is already doing under new prime minister Sir Keir Starmer and what his government may
in store for the country in the longer term.
EARDISLAND, UK.
Photo: David Tip
PRIME Minister of the UK Sir Keir Starmer.
Harris claims most of the delegates she needs for the nomination, sets new fundraising record
WASHINGTON Associated Press
Vice President Kamala Harris received the backing of more than half of the Democratic delegates she needs to become her party’s nominee, and she set a new fundraising record Monday in her first 24 hours as a presidential candidate, as top Democrats moved to coalesce around her in their bid to defeat Republican Donald Trump.
Aiming to put weeks of intraparty drama over President Joe Biden’s candidacy and prospects in November behind them, prominent Democratic elected officials, party leadersandpoliticalorganizations quickly lined up behind Harris. The Democratic worries over Biden’s fitness for office were replaced by fresh signs of unity, as the party looked to Harris to lead them after a seismic shift to the presidential contest that upendedbothmajorpoliticalparties’carefullyhoned plansforthe2024race.
Biden’s departure frees his delegates to vote for whomever they choose. Harris, whom Biden backed after ending his candidacy, is thus far the only declared candidate andwasworkingtoquickly secure endorsements from amajorityofdelegates.
Key endorsements Monday, including Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, left a vanishing list of potential rivalstoHarris.
Speaker emerita Nancy Pelosi, who had been one of the notable holdouts to Harris, initially encouragingaprimarytostrengthen the eventual nominee, endorsed Harris Monday. Pelosi said she was lending her “enthusiastic support” toHarris’efforttoleadthe party.
Morethan1,200pledged delegates have told AP or announced that they plan to support Harris at the convention, which is over half of the pledged delegates she needs in order to clinch the nomination.
DemocraticNationalcommittee rules most recently set1,976pledgeddelegates as the benchmark to win thenomination.
Winning the nomination is only the first item on a staggering political to-do list for her after Biden’s decision to exit the race, which she learned about on a Sunday morning call with the president. if she’s successfulatlockingupthe nomination, she must also pick a running mate and pivot a massive political operationtoboosthercandidacy instead of Biden’s with just over 100 days untilelectionDay.
On Sunday afternoon, Biden’s campaign formally changeditsnametoHarris for President, reflecting that she is inheriting his political operation of more than 1,000 staffers and a war chest that stood at nearly $96 million at the endofJune.Sheadded$81 million to that total in the first 24 hours after Biden’s endorsement, her campaignsaid—apresidential fundraising record — with contributions from more than888,000donors.
Harris spent much of
Sunday surrounded by family and staff, making more than 100 calls to Democratic officials to line up their support for her candidacy, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the effort. it comes as she tries to move her party past the painful, public wrangling that had defined the weeks since Biden’s disastrous June 27 debatewithTrump.
Speaking to party leaders, Harris expressed gratitude for Biden’s endorsement but insisted she was looking to earn the nomination in her own right,thepersonsaid. in a sign that the Democratic Party was moving to coalesce behind her, Harris quickly won endorsements from the leadership of several influential caucuses and political organizations, including the AAPi Victory Fund, which focuses on Asian American and Pacificislandervoters,The collective PAc, focused on building Black political power, and the Latino Victory Fund, as well as the chairs of the congressional
Secret Service director, grilled by lawmakers on the Trump assassination attempt, says ‘we failed’
WASHINGTON Associated Press
SecReTServiceDirec-
tor Kimberly cheatle said Monday that her agency failed in its mission to protect former President Donald Trump, as lawmakers of both major political parties demanded during a highly contentious congressional hearing that she resign over security failures that allowed a gunman to scale a roof and open fire at a campaignrally.
cheatle was berated for hours by Republicans and Democrats, repeatedly angering lawmakers by evading questions about the investigation during the first hearing over the July 13 assassination attempt. cheatle called the attempt on Trump’s life the Secret Service’s “most significant operational failure” in decades, and vowed to “move heaven and earth” to get to the bottom of what wentwrongandmakesure there’snorepeatofit.
“The Secret Service’s solemn mission is to protect our nation’s leaders. On July 13th, we failed,” she told lawmakers on the House Oversight and Accountabilitycommittee.
cheatle acknowledged thattheSecretServicewas told about a suspicious person two to five times before the shooting at the Butler, Pennsylvania, rally. She also revealed that the roof from which Thomas Matthew crooks opened fire had been identified as a potential
vulnerability days before the rally. cheatle said she apologized to Trump in a phone call after the assassinationattempt. Yet cheatle remained defiant that she was the “right person” to lead the SecretService,evenasshe said she takes full responsibility the security lapses. When Republican Rep. Nancy Mace suggested cheatlebegindraftingher resignation letter from the hearing room, cheatle responded, “No, thank you.” in a rare moment of unityfortheoftendivided committee, the Republican chairman, Rep. James comer, and its top Democrat, Rep. Jamie Raskin, issued a letter calling on cheatletostepdown.
The White House didn’t immediately comment on whether President Joe Biden still has confidence in cheatle after her testimony.
Democrats and Republicans were united in their exasperation as cheatle said she didn’t know or couldn’t answer numerous questions more than a week after the shooting that left one spectator dead. At one point, Mace used profanity as she accused cheatle of lying and dodging questions, prompting calls for lawmakers to show “decorum.”
Lawmakers pressed cheatle on how the gunman could get so close to the Republican presidential nominee when he was supposed to be carefully guarded, and why Trump was allowed
to take the stage after local law enforcement had identified crooks as suspicious.
“it has been 10 days since an assassination attemptonaformerpresident of the United States. Regardless of party, there need to be answers,” said Rep. Alexandria Ocasiocortez,D-NewYork.
cheatle acknowledged that crooks had been seen by local law enforcement before the shooting witharangefinder,asmall device resembling binoculars that hunters use to measure distance from a target. She said the Secret Service would never have taken Trump onto the stageifithadknownthere was an “actual threat.”
Local law enforcement took a photo of crooks and shared it after seeing him acting suspiciously, but he wasn’t deemed to bea“threat”untilseconds before he opened fire, she said.
“An individual with a backpack is not a threat,” cheatle said. “An individual with a rangefinder isnotathreat.”
cheatle said local enforcement officers were inside the building from which crooks fired. But when asked why there werenoagentsontheroof or if the Secret Service used drones to monitor the area, cheatle said she is still waiting for the investigation to play out, promptinggroansandoutbursts from members on thecommittee.
“Director cheatle, because Donald Trump is alive, and thank God he
Progressivecaucusandthe congressional Hispanic caucusandtheentirecongressional Black caucus. Harris, if elected, would be the first woman and first person of South Asian descenttobepresident.
Notably, a handful of men who had already been discussed as potential running mates for Harris — Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, North carolina Gov. Roy cooper and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly — also swiftly issued statementsendorsingher.Aides toShapiroandcooperconfirmed that Harris spoke with them Sunday afternoon. in her brief call with cooper,theNorthcarolina governortoldHarrishewas backinghertobetheDemocratic nominee, according to cooper spokeswoman SadieWeiner.
But former President Barack Obama held off on an immediate endorsement, as some in the party have expressed worry that the quick shift to Harris would appear to be a coronation,insteadpledginghis support behind the eventualpartynominee.
West Virginia Sen. Joe
Manchin,wholefttheparty earlier this year but considered re-registering as a Democrat to vie for the nominationagainstthevice president, told cBS News on Monday that he would notbeacandidate. in an indication of how she will have to balance her day job and her new role as candidate, Harris made her first public appearance Monday morning at the White House, where she opened her address to National collegiate Athletic Association championship teams by praising Biden’s “unmatched”legacy,saying shewas“deeplygratefulfor hisservicetoournation.”
Harris was filling in at the event for Biden, who is recovering at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware after contracting cOViD-19lastweek. She was later set to travel to Wilmington, where the Biden campaign had been headquartered, to meet with her new campaignstaff.
Harris, in a statement, praised Biden’s “selfless and patriotic act” in deciding to leave the race
is,youlookincompetent,” said Rep. Mike Turner, R-Ohio. “if he were killed, you would look culpable.”
Rep. Ro Khanna, one of the Democrats who joined the calls for cheatle to resign, noted that the Secret Service director who presided over the agency when there was an attemptedassassinationof former Republican President Ronald Reagan later steppeddown.
“The one thing we have to have in this country are agencies that transcend politics and have the confidence of independents, Democrats, Republicans, progressives and conservatives,” Khanna said, addingthattheSecretService was no longer one of thoseagencies.
Trump was wounded in the ear, a former Pennsylvania fire chief was killed
and said she intends to “earn and win” her party’s nomination.
“i will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party — and unite our nation — to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda,”shesaid.
Biden planned to discuss his decision to step aside later this week in an address to the nation. He wrote in a letter posted Sunday to his X account, “i believe it is in the best interest of my party and thecountryformetostand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainderofmyterm.”
Nearly 30 minutes after he delivered the news that he was folding his campaign, Biden threw his supportbehindHarris.
“Today i want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year,” he said in anotherpostonX.“Democrats — it’s time to come togetherandbeatTrump.”
The Democratic National convention is scheduled to be held Aug. 19-22 in chicago, but the party had announced it would hold a virtual roll call to formally nominate Biden before in-person proceedings begin. The convention’s rules committee is scheduled to meet this week to finalize its nomination process and it is unclear how it will be adjusted to reflect Biden’s exit. congressional Hispanic caucus chairwoman Nanette Barragan, who emphasized that she was “all in” behind the vice president, said she spoke Sunday with Harris, who communicated that she preferredtoforgoavirtual rollcallforthenomination process and instead hold a process that adheres to regularorder.
The Democratic National committee’s chair, Jaime Harrison, said in a statement that the party would “undertake a transparent and orderly process” to select “a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump in November.”
himself.
Authorities have been hunting for clues into what motivated crooks but have not found any ideological bent that could help explain his actions. investigators who searched his phone found photos of Trump, Biden and other senior government officials and found that he had looked up the dates for the Democratic National conventional as well as Trump’s appearances. He also searched for information about majordepressiveorder. The attack on Trump was the most serious attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Reagan was shot in 1981. it was the latest in a series of security lapses by the agency that has drawn investigations and public scrutinyovertheyears.
and two other attendees wereinjuredwhencrooks opened fire with an ARstyle rifle shortly after Trumpbeganspeaking.
cheatle said the agency hopes to have its internal investigation completed in 60 days. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has separately appointed a bipartisan, independent panel to review the assassination attempt, while thedepartment’sinspector general has opened three investigations. Meanwhile, a bipartisan delegation of about a dozen members of the House committee on HomelandSecuritytoured the shooting site Monday.
The lawmakers said they were the first group outside law enforcement to climb onto the roof where the shooter positioned
cheatle took over two years ago as head of the Secret Service’s 7,800 special agents, uniformed officers and other staffers whose main purpose is protecting presidents, vicepresidents,theirfamilies,formerpresidentsand others. in announcing her appointment, Biden said cheatle had served on his vice presidential detail and called her a “distinguished law enforcement professional with exceptional leadership skills” who had his “complete trust.”
cheatle took the reins from James M. Murray as multiple congressional committees and an internal watchdog investigated missing text messages from when Trump supporters stormed the US capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. The Secret Service says they were purged during a technologytransition.
VICE President Kamala Harris speaks from the South Lawn of the White House in Washington yesterday during an event with NCAA college athletes. This is her first public appearance since President Joe Biden endorsed her to be the next presidential nominee of the Democratic Party.
Photo: Susan Walsh/AP
US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle testifies before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee about the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign event in Pennsylvania, at the Capitol in Washington, yesterday.
Photo: Rod Lamkey, Jr/AP
Athletes enjoying their first days at the giant Olympic village
By JEROME PUGMIRE AP Sports Writer
PARIS (AP) — Australian beach volleyball player Taliqua Clancy got an unexpected surprise walking around the athletes’ village at the Paris Olympics yesterday.
Among the legions of other athletes from around the world, one figure stood out: French President Emmanuel Macron.
“We got to see him which was cool. I was hanging around hoping to get a selfie, but I had to come here” for a news conference, she told reporters, laughing. She probably wouldn’t have got close enough, anyway, because Macron’s security team ushered her away.
“But hopefully we can see a few more famous faces,” said Clancy, who is one of 66 indigenous athletes on the Australian Olympic team in Paris — six more than in Tokyo.
“I’m a proud aboriginal and it is special to have the artwork and design” in the village, the 32-year-old Clancy said.
Clancy and her teammate Mariafe Artacho del Solar were silver medallists at the Tokyo Games three years ago.
Artacho del Solar gave her first impressions of the village, where more than 14,000 athletes and officials are staying and which is the size of 70 soccer pitches.
“It has been amazing so far, it feels very safe,” she said. “We had a walk around today, had some good old photo of the rings.”
The village itself sits in the suburb of Saint-Denis, known in the sports world as the home to the Stade de France where France’s national soccer and rugby teams play.
It is located in a formerly run-down area now transformed into a vibrant international hub for
the July 26 to August 11 Paris Games, and for the August 28 to September 8 Paralympics.
“It’s great to see a whole ton of different countries here,” United States rugby sevens centre Lucas Lacamp said yesterday.
The village has a large dining hall with different food stations catering for different tastes from around the world, a vast gym, training grounds for a number of sports, a polyclinic, prayer rooms and an anti-doping centre.
“I was definitely looking forward to the food court, I won’t lie about that,” said New Zealand rugby sevens player Risaleanna PouriLane, who won the women’s gold medal in Tokyo.
“It’s been pretty cool. We’ve had a couple of days to soak up the whole village and Olympic environment.”
Andrew Knewstubb, a silver medallist in men’s rugby in Tokyo, explained the marked difference
between pandemic-marred Tokyo three years ago and Paris. “The most noticeable thing is people are not wearing masks,” Knewstubb said, adding that he likes how athletes can now say hello to each other or come up and swap pins “without the hesitation of COVID.”
Athletes lodge in five residential areas, each named after a well-known area of Paris: Abbesses, Bastille, Dauphine, Étoile, Fêtes. With environment protection in mind, the eco-friendly village has electric cars ferrying athletes around. Pouri-Lane enjoyed riding one of the many bikes provided for athletes to use.
Former track cycling star Anna Meares is a four-time Olympian and two-time gold medallist. Meares is now the Australian team’s Chef de Mission and said decisions were made regarding the team’s residency in the village.
“There was a lot of learning to take out of Tokyo, that played in the decisions we have made in our set up,” she said. One of them was more important than it may sound.
“We have kept our barista,” she said. “One big question I asked when I took on this role was ‘Why was the barista so popular?’ And that was because it created this social hub for the athletes.”
Meanwhile, the American men’s rugby sevens team are preparing for a huge game on Wednesday against host France — which boasts arguably the best player in the world in scrumhalf Antoine Dupont.
“Preparation has been good. They’ve taken really good care of us; fields were good, facilities were good,” U.S. captain Kevon Williams said. “Things have been rolling smooth for us. We’re ready for the moment.”
That moment will involve facing the roar of a sell-out 80,000 crowd at Stade de France.
It should be quite an experience for Williams and his teammates at France’s landmark national stadium, but beach volleyball players have arguably the best location of all. They play their matches against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower which, as iconic venues go, is hard to beat.
“I’m definitely not being biased but I think it’s the best venue of them all,” Artacho del Solar said. “It’s going to be amazing.”
They had a taste of things to come when they watched a video of the Australian men’s team training there.
“We know it’s going to be electric, exciting as beach volleyball always is,” said Clancy, whose first task at her first training session was testing the wind, the depth of the sand and its grain quality.
AHEAD OF 2024 PARIS OLYMPICS, IOC LEADERS TOUT GAMES AS MULTILATERAL UNIFIER IN DIVIDED WORLD
By GRAHAM DUNBAR AP Sports Writer
PARIS (AP) — On the eve of the Paris Olympics, IOC president Thomas Bach touted the games Monday as a uniting force in a world of divisive and “deeply disturbing” trends.
“We are witnessing a new world order in the making,” Bach told an audience that included French president Emmanuel Macron, organizers of the Paris Games that open Friday and officials from Olympic sports federations.
The IOC leader highlighted “narrow selfinterests trumping the rule of law” among threats to the multilateralism that has shaped global affairs for almost 80 years. “Historic disruptions are upending the system of international relations that has been in place since the second World War,” Bach said.
“The trends are unfortunately clear: decoupling of economies, beggar-thy-neighbor, narrow self-interests trumping the rule of law, ‘Global South’ vs. ‘Global North.’”
The Olympics is part of a global and multilateral world that Bach suggested
“is on the back foot.” “In this new world order, ‘cooperation’ or ‘compromise’ are sadly considered disparaging terms,” he said. “In this world of division, the athletes personify our shared hope for a better future. The athletes are showing us how to live peacefully together under one roof in the Olympic Village.”
Earlier Monday, Bach met with athletes from
the Israeli and Palestinian teams now living in the Olympic residences in the Saint-Denis neighborhood north of central Paris.
“In these dark times, our Olympic values matter more than ever,” Bach said in his speech. “It is only by living our Olympic values — the values of solidarity, equality, human dignity for all — that we can bring the entire world together in peace.”
Bach spoke at a ceremonial opening — hosted by one of the Paris organizers’ French sponsors, luxury goods firm LVMH — of the International Olympic Committee’s annual meeting. It runs through Wednesday at a conference center near the Arc de Triomphe.
On Tuesday, IOC members are set to confirm a 12-year deal agreed with Saudi Arabia to host
Olympic Esports Games in video gaming that are meant to help the governing body better engage with young people.
Bach said the Olympics “must engage with this digitally native generation” to stay relevant with them, while supporting Saudi progress in “the popularization of sport and in particular the participation of girls and women in sport.”
Also Tuesday, future Summer Games hosts Los Angeles and Brisbane will update the IOC on their plans for the 2028 and 2032 editions, respectively.
On Wednesday, Salt Lake City should be confirmed as host of the 2034 Winter Games, bringing the event back to Utah after a 32-year gap. The 2030 edition is heading for the French Alps project also centered on coastal city Nice. Final confirmation likely cannot be given this week because of uncertainty in the national government since recent snap elections for parliament called by Macron. The elections stalled momentum that was building for far-right parties.
PEOPLE walk in front of the canteen yesterday in the Olympic Village, at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France.
(AP Photo/Michel Euler)
IOC President Thomas Bach gives a thumbs up while taking a photo with IOC staff members during a tour of the Olympic Village yesterday ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
Promoting ‘Peace on da
GRINER HONOURED TO BE WEARING USA BASKETBALL JERSEY AGAIN AFTER HER TIME IN A RUSSIAN PRISON
By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer
PHOENIX (AP) — There were times Brittney Griner thought she would never wear a USA Basketball jersey again.
The two-time Olympic gold medallist was sitting in a Russian prison in 2022, sentenced to nine years in jail for drug possession and smuggling. Playing for her country again was a farfetched idea at that point.
Ten months later she was free after a high-profile prisoner exchange.
Now, 19 months later, she’s suiting up for the
U.S. in the Paris Games — her first trip to play overseas since returning from Russia.
Griner, wearing her No. 15 USA jersey before the team played at the All-Star Game on Saturday, said she gets chills now just putting it on.
“It means everything to me honestly,” Griner told The Associated Press in an interview. “For me to now have the honour to wear it again and potentially win gold is icing on the cake for everything.”
Griner had gone to Russia to play basketball and supplement her WNBA
income. She had done it for years. No more.
The 33-year-old said she will only play in America unless USA Basketball asks her to play. Griner has dedicated a lot of time playing with the U.S. team and feels 100% safe when she’s with them.
“It’s different, we are so protected by the staff around us,” she said. “It’s different, it’s way different. The level of comfortability and security we have right now makes it a lot easier.”
It’s been a busy few weeks for Griner as her wife Cherelle gave birth
to their son Bash on July 8. Griner said it was tough saying goodbye to him for a few weeks.
“We got some really cool photos before I left,” she said. “He doesn’t know anything right now, but one day it will be cool for him to have that footage. There’s so much footage.”
She’ll have her USA Basketball family to lean on while in Paris. Her teammates and coaches are thrilled to have her back playing for the U.S.
“That is something when you think about it. Think outside the Olympics, someone’s personal experience and what she went through and still continues
to go through,” U.S. coach Cheryl Reeve said. “We were all thinking of BG when she was away and we didn’t know if this moment would be possible. I’m thrilled for her personally and thrilled for our basketball team.”
Griner got to spend a few minutes at practice on Friday with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. He and the Vice President met with Griner when she returned to the U.S. and attended her first WNBA game back in Los Angeles — his hometown. He was moved that Griner wanted to represent the U.S. again. “Really getting chills just thinking
about it,” he told the AP.
“Where she was, and where she is now, to see her positivity and spirit it’s really compelling. Great to see that.” Emhoff will lead the U.S. delegation to the closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games, which is the night of the women’s gold medal game that Griner and her teammates expect to be playing in.
“Hopefully, everything goes the way we want it to go and that anthem’s playing,” Griner said of the U.S. hoping to win an eighth straight gold medal on August 11 in the title game. “It’s going to be way more emotional this time.”
BRITTNEY GRINER, left, Diana Taurasi, and Chelsea Gray, of Team USA, walk on the court prior to a WNBA All-Star basketball game against Team WNBA on Saturday, July 20 in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D Franklin)
AWARDS: At the 29th Peace on da Street Basketball Tournament, awards were presented to the winners in all of the categories, including the three-point shooting competition. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr/Tribune Staff
Streets’ for the 29th time
THE INTERNATIONAL Basketball Academy (IBA) pulled off a double dose of victory while the Pastors prevailed once again over the Politicians as the 29th Peace on da Street Basketball Tournament came to a close on Sunday night. After playing the preliminary games all week at the Michael ‘Scooter’ Reid Basketball courts at the Hope Center, organiser Apostle Dr. Carlos Reid brought the championship games in various divisions to the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr/Tribune Staff
LeBron scores final 11 points for US in 92-88 win over Germany as pre-Olympic tour ends
By TIM REYNOLDS AP Basketball Writer
ON Friday, LeBron James will carry the U.S. flag. But first, he carried the U.S. men’s basketball team.
Again.
James scored the final 11 points for the Americans down the stretch, and the four-time reigning Olympic gold medalists held off World Cup champion Germany 92-88 in London last night in their final tune-up before the Paris Games start later this week.
Announced earlier in the day as the male flagbearer for the Americans in Friday night’s opening ceremony down the River Seine — the female flagbearer will be revealed today — James came through time and time again down the stretch, just as he did over the weekend when his layup with 8 seconds left gave the U.S. a 101-100 win over upstart South Sudan.
James had 20 points for the U.S., while Joel Embiid scored 15, Stephen Curry had 13 and Anthony Edwards finished with 11.
“It was a good test for us. And I’m glad we were able to once again, you know, keep our composure, persevere like we did the other day versus South Sudan,” James said. “It was a good win for us.”
Franz Wagner led Germany with 18 points.
Andreas Obst — the hero
UNITED States’ LeBron James in action yesterday at the O2 Arena in London. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
of last year’s German win over the U.S. in the World Cup semifinals — had 14, while Dennis Schroder had a 13-point, 10-assist night. Daniel Theis added 13 for Germany and Moritz Wagner scored 12. The Americans finished their exhibition slate 5-0, but there was only one game that was a true cakewalk. That was against Serbia, the team that’ll face the U.S. on Sunday in the first Olympic game this summer for both teams. Canada gave the U.S. issues at times, Australia came from way back to make things interesting
at the end, South Sudan nearly pulled off an upset as a 43.5-point underdog and the Germans had the lead over the U.S. with 4 minutes left yesterday. Then it was James’ time. He outscored Germany 11-6 by himself in the final 3:57.
And now, Paris awaits. The games start for real this weekend. “We’ve had every experience,” Curry said. “Now it’s obviously a matter of showing up when the lights are bright next week. I think we’re ready. I think we’re prepared. Now we have to perform.”
3-point troubles
For the second consecutive game, the U.S. got outscored by 21 points from 3-point range. And it nearly burned the Americans again.
Germany was 13 for 45 from beyond the arc, the U.S. was 6 for 17, and that’s a 39-18 difference in points from deep. South Sudan outscored the U.S. 42-21 from deep on Saturday. Also not helping the U.S. cause on Monday: it had 14 turnovers to Germany’s seven. “I don’t think we’ve played our best offensive game yet,” Curry said.
Looking back
Theis had 26 points, while Schroder and Obst had 24 apiece in Germany’s 113111 win over the U.S. in the World Cup at Manila a year
ago. That trio was fantastic again Monday, combining for 40 points. It should be noted that the loss to Germany last year was about when some players — James, for example — started seriously thinking about joining the U.S. programme for this run to the Paris Games.
No Durant Kevin Durant got some pregame shots up again, just as he did Saturday in London. And, again, that was the extent of his game-night action. The three-time gold medallist did not play while he continues to recover from the calf strain he suffered a few days before the U.S. convened for training camp in Las Vegas. Durant missed all five pre-Olympic games exhibitions, though he did practice this past weekend. He has not appeared in a real game since late April, when Phoenix was swept in a first-round NBA playoff series by Minnesota.
BOC and BAAA ‘finally on the same page’
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor
IT doesn’t matter who is right and who is wrong. The Bahamas Olympic Committee and the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations are finally on the same page over the controversy surrounding whether either or both quarter-milers Shania Adderley and Lacarthea Cooper should go to the 2024 Olympic Games.
Just four days before the start of the games in Paris, France, the BOC and the BAAA released a joint statement endorsing their united stance to take both athletes as a part of Team Bahamas.
But there was no indication of who will be included on the mixed 4x 400 metre relay team or who will be there as an alternate.
The joint statement, signed by both Romell Knowles, president of the BOC and Drumeco Archer,
president of the BAAA, read as follows: “With a long-standing relationship between the Bahamas Olympic Committee and the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations, both bodies have reached a understanding to carry both Shania Adderley and Lacarthea Cooper to the Paris Olympics. “It is the continued pursuit of all stakeholders to advance the sport of track and field as we continue to raise the flag of The
Bahamas high. Best wishes to Team Bahamas.”
Originally, Archer released the names of the athletes to be recommended to the BOC for ratification and he indicated in an interview that Adderley would not be going to the games, although she ran on the team with Shaunae Miller-Uibo, Steven Gardiner and Alonzo Russell to qualify for the Olympics at the World Relays at the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium in May.
Following the BAAA National Championships in June where Cooper finished third in the women’s 400m and Adderley was fifth, the BAAA recommended that Cooper go instead of Adderley based on their head-to-head competition.
In officially naming the team at the beginning of July, the BOC selected Adderley and left Cooper off the list. That drew a lot of controversy as people felt that the BOC should have stuck with the BAAA
BAHAMAS Baseball Association
Bahamas, are still en route to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic - the host country for the tournament. Team Bahamas, composed of players from New Providence and Grand Bahama, is expected to arrive in Santo Domingo today. The manager, coaches and players are geared up and ready to represent our country as the first under-12 national team to compete in this tournament level.
recommendation. But the BOC has the jurisdiction over the team selection and they ultimately decide who makes up the team. The BOC eventually added Cooper to the team.
So it seems all is well that ends well.
When contacted, Knowles said the BOC’s focus is on Paris. Archer, however, simply stated: “The BAAA and the BOC say let the Olympics begin.” Enough said.
MIAMI (AP) — Francisco Lindor homered twice, Jeff McNeil also went deep and the New York Mets beat the Miami Marlins 6-4 on Monday night.
McNeil had three RBIs as the Mets split the fourgame series against the National League’s worst team. New York (51-48) is 5-5 versus Miami (35-65) this season. “It’s not easy to hit them here, even pull side,” Lindor said. “It’s baseball. I guess the ball was flying for me. It was a good day.”
said Peterson, who had not pitched since July 11. “You get back in your routine as quick as you can and get the second half rolling.”
Mets starter David Peterson (5-0) permitted two runs and six hits in five innings. The left-hander walked four and struck out four. “I felt I did some good things and some things that we’ll get better at,”
José Buttó relieved Peterson and allowed one run over two innings. Phil Maton worked a perfect eighth, aided by a diving catch from center fielder Harrison Bader. Down 6-3, the Marlins rallied against
closer Edwin Díaz in the ninth, when Nick Gordon hit a one-out single and Jazz Chisholm Jr. walked. Bryan De La Cruz followed with a dribbler that Díaz fielded, but he looked at second — where nobody was covering — before throwing soft and late to first, loading the bases.
Josh Bell grounded out, scoring Gordon and
advancing Chisholm and De La Cruz as McNeil made a tough play at second base. Díaz retired Jake Burger on a popup for his 12th save in 17 tries.
“They created some traffic but he kept making pitches,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said of Díaz. “I liked how he continued to mix the fastball, the slider. He got the job done.”
Marlins manager Skip Schumaker was ejected by plate umpire Rob Drake for arguing balls and strikes after the eighth inning.
“Rob’s a good umpire. He’s been around a long time,” Schumaker said. “It’s nothing personal. I just felt like he had to know what I felt.”
McNeil’s two-run shot in the second put the Mets ahead 2-0. He drove the first pitch from Marlins starter Yonny Chirinos (0-2) into the second deck of the right-field seats for his eighth homer and third of the series.
“I know the power’s there. Just kind of searching for some hits and abandoned that a little bit,” McNeil said. “There’s still a time and place for poke the ball the other way and put the ball in play. Different approaches for different times.”
The Marlins narrowed the gap on Vidal Bruján’s RBI double in the second before McNeil’s sacrifice fly and Lindor’s solo homer in the fourth made it 4-1.
New York padded its lead when Chirinos plunked Jose Iglesias with the bases loaded in the fifth. Solo shots from Bell in the fifth and De La Cruz in the seventh got Miami within 5-3.
Lindor ended a string of 12 1/3 scoreless innings by Marlins relievers in the series when he connected off JT Chargois with another solo homer in the ninth.
Chirinos gave up five runs and nine hits with four walks in five innings.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Mets: 3B Mark Vientos got the night off after getting hit on the helmet by an errant throw in Sunday’s game. Mendoza said Vientos cleared protocols and participated in baseball activities, but he felt it was appropriate to rest him Monday.
UP NEXT Mets: LHP Jose Quintana (4-6, 4.13 ERA) starts the opener of a two-game Subway Series at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday night. RHP Luis Gil (10-5, 3.17) pitches for the Yankees.
Marlins: Had not announced a starter for the opener of a three-game home series against Baltimore on Tuesday. RHP Albert Suárez (5-3, 2.82 ERA) goes for the Orioles.
secretary general Theodore Sweeting has announced that Team Bahamas will depart today for the Caribbean Baseball Confederation (COCABE) Under-12 Caribbean Baseball Cup. The tournament was originally scheduled to start over the weekend but Sweeting said tournament organisers advised the BBA that the tournament will start today as teams, including Team
MARLINS’ Jazz Chisholm Jr. moves away from a close pitch thrown by Mets starter David Peterson yesterday. Chisholm Jr. was hit by the pitch on the play. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
SPORTS
TUESDAY, JULY 23, 2024
Bridgewater wins 3pt contest
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor
Nardo Bridgewater said he was delighted to come home and show off his shooting skills in front of the Bahamian crowd in the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium on Sunday night.
Bridgewater, an outstanding young point guard, participated in the ‘Peace on da Streets’ three-point shooting contest, winning the title over three other competitors.
“I worked hard everyday to prepare myself for something like this,” said Bridgewater of the competition that took place before the feature game
between the politicians and the clergymen.
“It was amazing doing it in front of the home crowd. I was really pleased that I got the opportunity to perform before them. I know they enjoyed it,” stated the 24-year-old.
Bridgewater got a chance to play with the senior men’s national basketball team as they prepared for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
Unfortunately, he didn’t make the cut for the tournament at the beginning of July where the team fell short in the final of making the Olympics, scheduled for July 27 to August 11.
Despite not being on the team, Bridgewater said it’s an experience that he hopes will get him better prepared for the
next Olympic cycle that will end in Los Angeles, California in 2028.
“It was great being around the NBA guys and learning and just getting knowledge from them. It was great,” Bridgewater said.
“I took away a lot of stuff from them like how to be a professional, how to take care of your body and just be ready for anything that comes at you.
“I know my time will come, so I definitely do what I can to be ready to compete at that level. For sure, we’re going to give our best shot again to try and qualify for the Olympics.”
While the games are going on in Paris, Bridgewater will be preparing for his promotion in the France Professional
Basketball League where he will now be playing in the second division, starting on August 2.
“I have a lot of expectations moving forward,” Bridgewater pointed out. “They are allowing me to be free and to play how I play, so there’s a lot of expectations for me this year.”
Last season, Bridgewater came off an injury but he was able to rehabilitate in time to prove that he’s worthy of the promotion in the league. He was recruited to play in the league by Kino Burrows, whom he worked with in the tournament with their Raw Talent team that played in the under-16 boys’ final, losing out to the International Basketball Academy.
Roadrunners soak up Age Group spotlight in Florida
IN acknowledging the outstanding performances of their 40-member team at the recent AAU Age Group Championships in Jacksonville, Florida, Roadrunners Track Club head coach Dexter Bodie said there were
some performances that were overlooked. He highlighted Cassidy Pratt, one of the club’s top junior athletes. She placed in the top five in the 100 metres and ran on their 4 x 100m relay team that finished in the top eight.
Other top performers include Azalia Henderson, Jasmine Thompson, Melody Thompson, Shawne Ferguson and Trent Ford. Other performances of note came from Ethan Stuart in the 100m, Nario Williams in the 80m hurdles,
Chanelle Hepburn in the 100 and 200m, Teshan Williams in the 200m, all of whom came in the top eight. The Roadrunners finished 16th out of a field of 300 teams at the meet.
NATIONAL TEAM SET TO COMPETE IN ELITE JUNIOR CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIPS
THE Bahamas Cycling Federation is expected to send its junior national team to the elite Junior Cycling Championships in Saint Martin.
The team, to be managed by Kenton Roker, is scheduled to leave town on August 8 and return to the capital on August 12.
Three of the cyclists will compete in the time trials and road race respectively. The federation, according to secretary general
Barron “Turbo” Musgrove, will continue to be excited about the national youth development programmes in the Bahamas. He noted that they are turning out very good junior cyclists and therefore they are looking for some very good performances from those who are travelling. Roker anticipates that they are looking at some keen competition from Team Bahamas. “I expect Ayden Bain to podium as
a pre junior. Launy Duncombe should podium in both the TT (time trial) and road race as per his condition and the recent participation in the training camp in Trinidad,” Roker said. “Erin Pritchard, our lone female, watching her during the recent National Championships, I think it will come down to a sprint in the road race and definitely I expect no less than a third place finish in the TT.”
THE Bahamas Boxing Federation is expected to participate in the 2024 Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Championships in St Lucia from July 25-28.
The Bahamas will be represented by persons from New Providence, Grand Bahama and Inagua.
The team will be coach ed by Jermaine Gibson, head coach of the All Out Boxing Club in Grand Bahama. The referee/judge will be Geddet Williams, a certified referee/judge and IBA Star one coach from Grand Bahama as well.
The boxers travelling to compete are featherweight Josiah Smith, lightweight Keano Cox and cruiserweight Keanu Greene, the 2022 Sugar Bert champion. Vincent Strachan, the president of the federation, will serve as the team manager. He will also assist as a referee/judge.
The team is expected to depart Grand Bahama today and Nassau tomorrow. The team is small due to lack of funding but Strachan is determined that the three boxers will capture the gold medal in their weight categories.
The team is expected to return home on July 29.
NARDO Bridgewater with trophy.
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr/ Tribune Staff
SMITH
GREENE COX
CASSIDY PRATT