PUZZLER
WEDNESDAY
The Tribune
Third $1.5m airporT raid suspecT killed
• Mother says victim questioned by police in voice notes probe
• Oral Roberts now third man linked to robbery to be murdered
• Victim allegedly told by police not to talk to any other officers
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
A THIRD man connected to November’s $1.5m robbery of a bank security car –– the incident at the centre of a major unresolved police corruption controversy –– has been killed. Police did not give many details last night after Oral Roberts, 34, was killed in the Fox Hill park area.
Although the scene was cordoned off, the victim’s body was left lying in the road, exposed to the
public for longer than usual.
The man’s mother, Mizpah Roberts, told reporters that police questioned him last week as part of their investigation involving Chief Superintendent Michael Johnson, the Central Investigations Department (CID) head who has taken garden leave as police probe matters related to voice notes purporting to capture a quid-pro-quo arrangement involving him, a lawyer and two murdered men.
Michael Fox Jr and Dino
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
Viola Richardson, 65, said her sister was in a complicated relationship for over 20 years.
“She was trying to get out of the relationship,” she said, tearfully. “When I look, all of a sudden, I see them two tagging together
A WOMAN was murdered yesterday in what is suspected to be a case of domestic violence. Theresa Knowles was found dead with injuries to her upper body in a residence off Homestead Street. Police refused to reveal how she sustained her injuries.
SEE page three
police on the scene near Fox Hill park area last night where Oral Roberts, a suspect in last November’s $1.5m airport robbery, was shot and killed.
Photo: Dante carrer/Tribune Staff
Third $1.5m airport raid suspect killed
from page one
Smith, two men killed in May and January, were suspects in that robbery, which was discussed on the voice notes, but they were not charged with a crime. Roberts and his coaccused, Akeil Holmes, were charged in November with stealing more than $1m from the bank security car at an airport.
Roberts was wearing an ankle bracelet.
His family was preparing to celebrate the birthday of his only son before he was killed.
Ms Roberts said she and her son were sitting on a porch when he left to buy her a sandwich from Subway. She said he returned home and was eating Oreos before he was shot.
She claimed officers who questioned her son last week warned him not to speak to other police
officers.
She said they told him:
“Bey, if any police car try stop you, don’t stop.”
“I’m not afraid to say that police killed my child,” she said, adding that her son feared for his life.
Sylvens Metayer, a man who initially released the explosive voice notes, had claimed without incontrovertible proof that police officers disclose electronic monitoring information about people to criminals so they can be targeted.
Ms Roberts said after her son heard this, he begged his lawyer to get the bracelet off his foot.
The status of the investigation into matters related to the voice notes is unclear. The Royal Bahamas Police Force has asked for help from the United Kingdom’s Metropolitan Police, but police have not said whether UK officers are helping with the probe.
The body of Oral Roberts, a man shot and killed in the Fox Hill park area last night, being removed from the scene.
Photos: dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Murdered woman suspected case of domestic violence
again.”
“My husband said to me, Viola, not good. I said, I can’t say nothing. I said they must know what they doing. Leave it alone.”
Chief Superintendent Dwight Smith, the officer in charge of the Grove Police Station, said police spoke to a man who may be related to the murdered woman, and he is helping police with their investigation.
The crime scene was emotionally charged.
Ms Knowles’ sisters cried out loud and embraced each other. The murdered woman’s young son stood next to his aunts, numb and seemingly struggling to make sense of what was happening.
Mrs Richardson said she was alerted to her sister’s absence and went searching for her.
“We have been up and down,” she said. “When we came through here, I saw the car. I saw the truck. I say Jesus.”
As Mrs Richardson spoke, people nearby shouted allegations about the behaviour of the deceased, suggesting she frequently visited the house where she was found, frustrating a man who lived there.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Chaswell Hanna said if the matter is a domestic incident, police encourage the public to seek help if they are experiencing challenges.
“Everybody may have a challenge in their relationship from time to time, but we don’t want those challenges to cause you to make a mistake that you may regret,” he said.
“Even if you don’t feel comfortable reaching out to the crisis centre, maybe just talking to a friend or family member or local clergyman may help because we don’t want incidents like this or any other potential domestic violence incident to occur.”
Police seize drugs, wea Pons and ammo at gB residence
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter
dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
A 45- y EAR -o LD Bahamian man is in police custody after a significant seizure of illegal drugs, weapons, and ammunition at a residence in Grand Bahama. Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles said law enforcement officials received information that led to the discovery and arrest of the suspect shortly after 9pm on Monday.
o fficers from the Anti-gang and Firearms Unit, the Customs Department, and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force searched a home in the eastern part of Grand Bahama.
They found five highpowered weapons, one pistol, over 500 rounds of ammunition, 11 packages and jars of suspected marijuana, and components of a firearm.
ACP Knowles said investigations are still underway. Police have not yet estimated the street value of the drugs, weapons, and ammunition.
She said the person in custody is unknown to police and believes others may be involved.
“This young man was certainly not on our radar,” she said.
Police are also concerned about the types of weapons being discovered in the country.
ACP Knowles said:
“Before me right now are five deadly weapons. Can you imagine if they get on the streets, what could possibly happen?
“We are concerned that there are more weapons and dangerous drugs on our streets.”
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MARRIED couple was charged yesterday after a firearm arrest at their residence on McKinney Drive last week. Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley arraigned Rubens Scutt, 33, and Charea Rolle-Scutt, 26, on two counts of possession of unlicenced firearms with intent to supply and four counts of possession of ammunition with intent to supply.
The pair faced 12 further counts of possession of uncustomed goods connected with the seized weapons and ammunition.
The couple was arrested at their home around 10pm on July 24 after police uncovered eight firearms and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
These included a black Barra 400e air rifle, a white and black Crossman ST-1 air rifle, a black Barra air rifle, a black Gamo Model 430 air pistol, a black CZ 750 compact air pistol, a brown Sig Sauer 911 air pistol and two black Austria air pistols. The couple was also allegedly found with 1,000 rounds of .223 ammunition, 200 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 475 12-gauge shotgun shells and 500 rounds of .22 ammunition.
While the accused pleaded not guilty to all customs charges, they were informed that the gun and ammunition charges would be transferred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). Under the terms of their bail, the couple must sign in at the Carmichael Road Police Station every Wednesday and Saturday by 6pm.
The scene on Homestead Street where a woman was found dead with injuries to her upper body yesterday. Photos: Dante carrer/Tribune Staff
AssisTAnT Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles (centre) holds a high-powered rifle during a press conference revealing a stockpile of guns, ammunition and drugs seized by police from the residence of a 45-year-old man in Grand Bahama on Monday.
Two union chiefs calling for $350 minimum wage
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
TWO prominent union leaders want the government to raise the minimum wage to $350 a week, but the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Federation (BCCEC) is uncertain whether businesses would support any increase.
Labour Minister Pia Glover-Rolle indicated on Monday that the government is considering another minimum wage increase “in the near future.” This announcement surprised some, as she said in November that the government would not support another increase after adjusting the rate in January 2023.
Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) president Kimsley Ferguson said while a $350 weekly wage may not fully address the cost of living crisis, it would be an “appropriate” sum for workers now.
“The cost of living has already outpaced the current salaries and any proposed increases, so it would be a good step towards where we need to go,” he said.
Obie Ferguson, president of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), agreed, saying: “The average person in this country needs to live on at least $350, not $260. What is $260?”
Dr Leo Rolle, president of the BCCEC, could not say whether his organisation would support a proposed wage hike.
“The mood in the business community right now is very burdened,” he said, citing several challenges affecting businesses and noting that any cost
increase would be a further concern. He said the BCCEC plans to survey its members for feedback on the government’s latest announcement. Mrs Glover-Rolle did not provide a timeline for a decision but emphasised
the need for a phased and “data-driven” approach. Mr Ferguson agreed that economic factors must be considered and called for consultation. He said current wages are not enough and believes the government should have raised
increments for public servants further to help absorb costs.
Some public servants recently reported that incremental increases were not accurately reflected in their monthly pay. Labour officials explained that
employees had not considered the impact of the increased National Insurance Board contribution rate.
Mr Ferguson said: “For someone whose annual increase was $450, or $37.50 per month, the national
By LEANDRA ROLLE
Tribune Chief Reporter
lrolle@tribunemedia.net
PETER Goudie, the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation’s (BCCEC) labour division head, wants the government to target “mom and pop” food stores and other businesses not paying NIB for their employees to help reduce poverty in the country.
He also called for dialogue on converting “informal” economy workers into formal employees. The topic was one of several he discussed in a presentation yesterday at a labour legislation reform symposium.
He said there are too
many informal workers, a type of employee not subject to income, benefits or social safety protection.
Dealing with this, he said, “would help reduce some of our poverty levels because some of these people who are in the informal economy don’t get paid very well”.
He recommended that the government target small “mom-and-pop stores” and illegitimate businesses, especially since the government has prioritised down on businesses that do not comply with the law.
“They started it in some ways,” he said, “You know there was this controversy about them going around with the police with long guns. I don’t think that’s necessary but we don’t
PUBLIC NOTICE
INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL
Public is hereby advised that I, CEILIAN JOHN, 64F FROBISHER CIRCLE, Freeport, The Bahamas, intend to change my name to CELIANN MONIQUE GRANT If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O.Box N-742, Nassau, The Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.
need to go after legitimate businesses. We need to go after those who appear to be legitimate and we need to go almost business by business.”
“And that’s what I’m concerned about because it’s a huge piece of our economy. People don’t think about it because people think, oh that’s only one little store.”
Mr Goudie wants the government to run the country more like a business.
“It’s very difficult to get people who aren’t performing terminated and we’re saying let’s change the general orders and let’s start running government like a business and be responsible instead of having people working who really aren’t performing,” he said.
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
AN 11- YEAR - OLD is battling depression after losing several teeth when a car struck him in May, and the driver responsible has not helped with the $15,000 dental repairs he needs.
Jamal McDonald struck Zion Rolle with a Nissan Note on May 15 as the boy crossed Carmichael Road.
He was charged with driving without due care and attention and driving without being covered against third-party insurance risk. Fines related to those offences are $250 and $400, according to the law.
Mr McDonald paid a fine on June 28, according to the head of the road traffic division, Chief Superintendent Eugene Strachan.
Trevina Smith, 30, the boy’s mother, said her situation exposed a gap in the law and questioned how she would get the money to help her son.
“It’s not fair,” she said,
“because if he just had to pay a fine, what happen to my baby’s medical fee? What now happens with my child’s mouth?
“I just want his mouth to be fixed because that’s my baby constant cry every day, about his mouth, about his features.
“They said my baby went up into the air and came down and landed directly on his face, and all they saw was just blood. He hit him so hard that the schoolbag that he had on, all the blood drained through it straight into his school books.
“He lost the majority of his front teeth. His permanent teeth were knocked out of his mouth.
“When he looks at himself, he doesn’t feel the same because he doesn’t have any front teeth in his mouth anymore. I now have to get him a special mouthwash.
insurance deduction would have absorbed at least $17.11 of that amount, leaving a balance of about $20.39. When spread across a month, this results in a daily increase of about 65 cents, which is effectively no increase at all.”
“He cannot eat the stuff he used to like to eat no more. He has to take painkillers because some nights it is so painful he cannot sleep. When he cries, he is like, why this had to happen to me?”
Ms Smith said her son is not going outside and interacting with other children during his summer break because he feels ashamed.
“He doesn’t ride his bike any more. He doesn’t go to the park any more. He doesn’t do nothing but stay in this house,” she said.
Ms Smith made a plea to lawyers for help.
“I am a mother,” she said. “Although I only have one child, I have bills. This is an unnecessary bill for me right now.”
“Dental bills for my baby? That is breaking my backbone. That really is killing me because this is something that I have to do because I cannot look at my child every day the way he is and the pain he is in and cannot be able to help him, so every dollar I get now I have to put towards his dental fee which I feel is not fair.”
Ms Smith said people hoping to help her can reach her at (242) 817-9632.
Obie FergusOn, president of the Trade Union Congress.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Ann Marie Davis calls to join fight against human trafficking
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
ANN Marie Davis,
the wife of Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, called for people to fight against human trafficking.
She was speaking yesterday during the launch of a public campaign recognising World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
She discussed how families are sometimes deceived into giving their children to wealthier families, believing the child will have a better life, only for the opposite to occur.
She referenced the case of Shyima, who was sold as a pre-teen to a wealthy Egyptian family to work in their California home and was forced to live in a windowless garage for two years, according to a Trafficking in Persons Report released in 2009.
The report detailed how Shyima woke up before dawn and often worked past midnight, ironing the family’s clothes, mopping the marble floors, and “dusting the family’s crystal,” for which she earned $45 monthly. At times, she
worked up to 20 hours a day.
“She lived under constant fear and loneliness with very little possibility of going to school or having a normal childhood,” Ms Davis said. “Could you imagine? You see how small our eight-year-olds are? Can you imagine a young girl at eight years old like that being sold into slavery, being trafficked? This is what we’re up against.”
This year’s campaign theme is “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking”.
Mrs Davis said the theme “resonates deeply” with the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister, which has a portfolio dedicated to protecting the vulnerable in the community, “particularly women and children, and combating malicious effects of gender-based violence against women and children”.
When asked to respond to frustration from women advocates about the stalled move to criminalise marital rape, she inaccurately said the Protection Against Violence Bill passed last year sufficiently addresses the issue.
Chinese Ambassador pays courtesy call on acting PM Chester Cooper
By KEILE CAMPBELL
Staff Reporter
her husband’s state as “absolutely fantastic”.
“He’s walking around,
he’s walking fast, faster than I can as a matter of fact,” she said. “He’s just amazing. He came through the surgery very well. It was very necessary, it was a last resort. He has recovered. He’s about 99 percent there.” Mrs Davis said Mr Davis could not travel immediately after the surgery because sitting up straight and enduring turbulence would have been difficult.
AMBAssADor of the People’s Republic of China to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas,
lency Yan Jiarong paid a courtesy call on Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism,
ments & Aviation Chester Cooper at the ministry’s offices, on Monday. In attendance were Lisa
Adderley-Anderson, Acting Permanent Secretary, MOTIA, Dr. Kenneth Romer, Deputy Director General of Tourism and Director of Aviation, and officials of the Chinese Embassy.
had to heal,” she said. 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.
Mr Davis had reportedly battled sciatica for a few months and suffered excruciating pain in one of his legs when he stood.
Ann MArie DAvis, wife of Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, speaking to the press at the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons Campaign yesterday. Photos: nikia Charlton
PriMe Minister PhiliP ‘BrAve’ DAvis
Her Excel-
Invest-
Photos: Kemuel stubbs/BIS
The Tribune Limited
NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI
“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914
SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
Publisher/Editor 1919-1972
Contributing Editor 1972-1991
RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
Publisher/Editor 1972-
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Police corruption probe gains even more significance after latest murder
A THIRD man linked to a major armed robbery that has become linked to a police probe into corruption is now dead.
Oral Roberts was accused in November over a $1.5m robbery of a bank security car at an airport.
The case was remarkable in itself, but a series of voice notes included explosive allegations relating to that incident.
The voice notes appeared to feature a discussion of that robbery, and involved two men, Michael Fox Jr and Dino Smith, who were suspects in that robbery.
The discussion appears to involve a quid-pro-quo arrangement involving the two men, a lawyer and a senior police officer.
After the voice notes became public, Chief Superintendent Michael Johnson, the head of the Central Investigations Department, took garden leave while police launched an investigation into the matter.
Michael Fox Jr is now dead. He was shot dead in Fox Hill in May. He pulled up to a residence and was immediately attacked by three masked men in a grey jeep. They opened fire, hitting him multiple times and killing him. Police said Fox Jr was associated with the Outlaws gang.
Dino Smith is now dead. He was shot dead in broad daylight on Prince Charles Drive when a gold Nissan pulled alongside. Three men got out and fired multiple gunshots into Smith’s vehicle, killing him and a female friend, Chatere Wells, who was catching a ride to work with Smith.
Oral Roberts is now dead. Police gave few details at the scene of last night’s murder. He was wearing an ankle bracelet, and his mother last night said that he had begged his lawyer to get the bracelet off his foot. This came after he heard claims on Facebook from the same person who initially released the
voice notes that electronic monitoring information is shared so criminals can be targeted. This claim was made without proof.
His mother, Mizpah, last night said that she believe police killed her son. She said he had feared for his life.
She said police officers who questioned him last week in relation to the corruption probe had warned him not to speak to other officers. She said they told him “if any police car try stop you, don’t stop”.
One suspect from the airport robbery remains to face the courts. Akeil Holmes was charged alongside Oral Roberts in November.
As for the man who shared the voice notes originally on Facebook, he was seemingly targeted by a shooting during a Facebook live, reporting that he suffered injuries. Police in the US later confirmed they had investigated a shooting.
There have been questions as to whether the police force here can investigate itself. There have been questions about the extent to which foreign officers should be involved in the investigation. There have been suggestions that this investigation merits a full commission of inquiry.
The only evidence that Oral Roberts can give any such investigation is whatever he said to officers before he died.
This investigation was of the utmost seriousness before. It is of huge national significance now.
A commission of inquiry would be completely justified to ensure absolute transparency.
The Prime Minister is returning to the country today after his successful surgery. This should be the top item in his in-tray.
This investigation must have the highest priority – and the public must be kept informed if there is any hope of reassurance. Nothing less will suffice.
EDITOR, The Tribune
EDITOR, The Tribune
EVERY five years, the sporting world gathers in the true tradition of the Olympic Oath… significantly to unify the nations in peaceful games. Millions around the world believers and non-believers, yes I am talking about the Olympics because the Organising Committee who organised the opening decided to insult the millions watching with that stupid depiction of the Christian icon of the Last Supper... why? Was there a deliberate intent? Clearly the theme of the mockery was to inject the LGBT lifestyle on the same level as the Apostles meeting with Christ on the eve of his Passion and eventual crucifixion... a centrepiece of faith for the Christian world. The parade happened on Sunday. Government has been totally silent seemingly… not a squeak from anyone, not a squeak from the Christian Council which shocks but has the LGBT community won its day? This was a planned deliberate act by the global LGBT faction to demonstrate at one of the global audience TV events and make a statement… they sure did an ugly despicable anti-Christian statement. At the minimum, if we are as so conveniently we shout when it is good
for us we are a Christian people a Christian nation so now stand and critically complain to the organising committee and to the host nation France. An apology from the organising committee is not enough, Editor… the world has reduced its objection to the gay lifestyle but now through this depiction the LGBT community is taking on the global christian community… As we say for the Olympics ‘let the game begin… ashamed - hurtoffended. Might not watch any more of the games which I really enjoy.
PAULA MINNS Nassau, July 30, 2024.
FINANCES - let’s take credit where credit is due…nothing the Bahamas government did except to agree like the rest of the world to the 15 percent corporate tax. Government did absolutely nothing but there will be a substantial new revenue windfall... millions. Only take credit where it is earned, please. Tourism 12 million… actually probably more like 8.5m as only 48 percent of cruise the effective substantial increase will ever set foot on Bay or shop in the straw market… everyone complaining.
Providing electricity to the cruise port… instead of Arawak Cay why not old St John’s site adjacent to Police HQ and all that vacant government land... distance to install the high capacity voltage cable has to be shorter than from Arawak Cay to the dock (ministry save money!)
GE jet turbine generator with LNG fuel… fuel can be stored and tanker delivered from Blue Hill. Vehicles with unregulated lights… everything from the extreme LED bright headlights to every colour under the rainbow… flasher lights on vehicles which are not recognised emergency vehicles. Didn’t the Commissioner of Police say months ago he would be dealing with unauthorised headlights etc?
MIRIAM HUNT Nassau, July 30, 2024.
Olympic opening was anti-Christian Scotland Yard should run probe
EDITOR, The Tribune DID the Commissioner advise of the arrival of Scotland Yard or at the very least announce when they will arrive? Scotland Yard should run the investigation. Any other suggestion reeks of cover up. It seems the intended approach suggested in the media by the police will lead to suppression of facts and will
lead to a severely limited scope from any international assistance. In short, the Commissioner and the PM are playing games. If there’s nothing to hide and they are truly wanting to be transparent (which we know they’re not), Scotland Yard should lead the investigation with the police totally hands off. To have the local police
investigate the local police is a sick joke. You will never get to the truth and nothing of substance will be shared with the people. This is a huge issue. I trust the media will keep their eyes on this matter and push for answers for the country.
CONCERNED CITIZEN Nassau, July 30, 2024.
New York Yankees’ Jazz Chisholm Jr, right, celebrates his three-run home run with Aaron Judge, centre, as Philadelphia Phillies catcher JT Realmuto, left, looks on during the seventh inning of a baseball game, yesterday, in Philadelphia.
Photo: Chris Szagola/AP
Doctor‘progressing adequately’ after pump implant surgery
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
A NEWLY married doctor successfully had a pump implant yesterday, a critical step toward receiving a heart transplant.
Dr Gemma Rolle, president of the Medical
Association of The Bahamas, said Dr Ajita Wallace-Pinder is now in recovery and “progressing adequately”.
“We received a call from her husband, Mr Pinder, last evening, who expressed joyous gratitude for the love and support shown to Dr Ajita from the physician
collective,” she said. “Dr Wallace-Pinder will be in full recovery mode over the next three days. Let us continue to pray and send positive energy their way.”
A Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) is a mechanical pump that helps the heart’s left ventricle pump blood to the rest of
Man charged with Murder in the shooting death of elvardo t hoMpson last weekend
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was remanded in custody yesterday after he was accused of killing Elvardo Thompson, 24, on Pinecrest Drive last weekend. Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley arraigned D’Ondre Ramsey, 28, on murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
His alleged accomplices, Jamaal Hamilton, 25, and Shanton McSweeney, 21, were arraigned on the same charges last Friday.
The trio allegedly shot
and killed Thompson as he sat in his red Dodge Ram on Pinecrest Drive around 7pm on July 20. The victim’s vehicle crashed into a nearby house after he was ambushed.
After hearing gunshots from the East Street South Police Station, officers reportedly pursued the suspect’s grey Nissan Cube as it fled the area at high speeds. The car chase ended on Bamboo Blvd after the suspect’s vehicle collided with another car. McSweeney allegedly shot police Constable 4476 McHardy before officers shot him in his lower body.
Hamilton was allegedly caught on Thatch Palm Avenue after a brief foot chase.
Police caught Ramsey on a later date.
McSweeney was successfully treated for his injuries in hospital.
The accused was informed that his matter would be transferred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).
The defendant will be remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the service of his VBI on November 28.
Two men charged with robbing a man at gunpoint earlier this month
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
TWO men were remanded in custody after they were accused of robbing a man at gunpoint earlier this month.
Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley arraigned Solomon Mortimer, 42, and Glen Braynen, 20, on armed robbery. The duo, while armed with a handgun, allegedly robbed William Rahming of $350 cash on July 13 in New Providence. The defendants were
the body. It is often a temporary solution or bridge to a heart transplant, which can take months to happen.
Dr Wallace-Pinder, 41, a member of Princess Margaret Hospital’s internal medical team, was airlifted out of the country on Friday.
Her family created a
GoFundMe account to raise $200,000. As of press time, the account had raised $102,731.
“When we think of a heart transplant, we are talking millions of dollars, and quotes of three million being passed around probably just scratch the surface because it is not just the
actual surgery we are covering,” Dr Rolle said during a press conference last week.
“We are covering the care to keep her going until she gets this transplant, and then there is the aftercare, the rehab, all she has to endure thereafter just to get back on that battlefield with us.”
told their matter would be moved to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).
The accused will be remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until their VBIs are served on November 21.
Dr AjitA WAllAce-PinDer
The beauty of community when govt health aid fails
HealtH is a fundamental human right, recognised in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the World Health Organization (WHO) Constitution (1948). the right to health, according to the WHO, includes “the right to control one’s health, informed consent, bodily integrity, and participation in healthrelated decision-making”. access to the right to health is linked to the right to work and the right to education. It also includes “nondiscriminatory access to quality, timely and appropriate health services and systems and to the underlying determinants of health”.
access to healthcare is often quite difficult for the average Bahamian. We regularly hear stories of long waits in emergency rooms, and long waits in private doctors’ offices have come to be expected. there is a greater need for healthcare than we seem to have the capacity to reasonably provide. Many doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals pull from their reserve and depend on their passion for the medical practice and helping patients to keep going on long shifts. to receive adequate healthcare, one needs time, money, and human support. employers tell us how many days we are allowed to be sick in a calendar year. a lunch hour is often not enough time to get a prescription filled, so no one would even bother trying to see a doctor on break. the demand is high. Our health situation is changing. People are living longer which means we have more elderly people and they are more vulnerable to illnesses, in addition to the physical changes to that take place over time. People with children see illnesses cycle through their households as soon as their children start going to daycare or attending preschool. With new viruses going around, many of which have similar symptoms, many of us are less likely
By Alicia Wallace
to just take cold and cough medicine or take bush medicine. “It is better to know than to not know,” people say. It is better to see a professional, get their opinion, and then get a second opinion if needed. this is much easier for people who have time to walk at a walk-in clinic or get a same-day appointment than for those who need to be at work, do school drop-off and pickup, check in on elderly family members, shop for grocery, and cook dinner. Far too many people, it is scary to have an annual physical. Beyond the fear of needles or being scolded, there is a real fear of being diagnosed with anything that cannot be helped with over-the-counter medication. What happens after diagnosis, assuming a patient can get the requisite testing done? there may be expensive medications and other treatment plans that the patient cannot afford. even if they can manage for a short time, what happens when they run out of resources? For people who do not have health insurance, there is the added issue of not being able to get insurance after being diagnosed with certain conditions. everything is not covered by NHI, and all treatments are not available in the Bahamas. In recent years, there have been many calls for assistance for people in desperate need for medical treatment. GoFundMe campaigns circulate frequently as family members and friends try to help their loved ones to get the healthcare their lives depend on. Before GoFundMe, there were cookouts. Someone was always selling steak and chicken tickets or souse tickets in an effort
to raise money to cover medical expenses. We are forced to find ways, beyond our own pay checks, to help each other to survive. there are medications, there are treatments, and there are cures. then there are the exorbitant fees to access them. looking at the common noncommunicable diseases in the Bahamas, we need to find ways to encourage, and make possible, prevention, and we need to be equipped to respond to the crises resulting from hereditary and environmental factors. Depending on the kindness of people, especially strangers, is difficult and terrifying when life is at stake. Some people have more luck than others for reasons that vary greatly. For every person who needs financial assistance for healthcare, there is a story to be told about their education, their professional life, their service to and care for others, and their contributions to the country. there are ways that way must prove the value of human beings— our loved ones—as we ask for help to keep them alive. We appeal to the good that is within people. We convince people that every little bit really does matter, because it does. We ask people to share, share, share the fundraising campaigns. We try to work with social media algorithms to get as many people to see our pleas as possible. It becomes an unpaid part time job for some, a full time job for others, to keep donations rolling in for the most important cause of all— human life. We practice mutual aid. even as we struggle to meet our needs, we give the
$10, $20, $50, $100, $250, because we know that it matters. We know that our day may come, and the collective $10, $20, $100, $250 contributions may keep us going for long enough to overcome the health challenges that rear their heads. We do this, over and over
‘This is the beauty of community— that we give of ourselves, sharing whatever we have, and that we band together to create and demand the implementation of new, efficient systems for everyone’s benefit.’
again, because we must. at the same time, we must look for a more sustainable way to secure healthcare for all. We have to do them both, at the same time. this is the beauty of community—that we give of ourselves, sharing whatever we have, and that we
Recommendations
1. Lies and Other Love Languages by Sonali Dev. every family has its secrets, but some are deeper than others. From the story of two best friends to the story of a happy family, it is difficult to imagine the in-betweens that this book slowly reveals. Vandy is an advice columnists, viewed by many as a kind of guru, who is still mourning the death of her husband one year later. Her daughter Mallika is struggling to make her way as a choreographer. Rani back in Mumbai with a new life and family she is determined to keep. One chance event leads to a search for answers that necessitates the opening of old wounds.
2. The Bear. the television drama series got widespread viewership in season one, and season two took an unexpected turn in tone. In season one, we see Carmen return to his family’s restaurant in Chicago, charged with running it by his recently deceased brother who left it to him. Carmen had traveled and worked in some of the most incredible restaurants in the world, all to prove to himself, and to his brother, that he could do it. He desperately wants to be an excellent chef. the restaurant, in the state he meets it, does not seem like it will bring what he wants, so he starts hacking away it to create something else, dragging a sometimes-reluctant-sometimes-enthusiastic staff with him. there is family drama, but it is really what happens in the kitchen that intrigues, surprises, and keeps viewers talking. Jeremy allen White is the complicated Carmen, ayo edebiri plays Sydney and is an obvious favorite, and liza Colón-Zayas as tina is a key ingredient to the Bear.
3. Lupita Nyong’o on Hot Ones. Hot Ones is a show on the Youtube channel First We Feast, hosted by Sean evans. Celebrities are invited to participate in an interview while eating wings with progressively hotter or spicier sauces on them. they are challenged to keep the conversation going and to make it through the entire flight of wings without tapping out. their reactions throughout the challenge tend to be funny. Some people are convinced that it will be a breeze while others are quite apprehensive. lupita Nyong’o is an academy, emmy, tony, and Golden Globe award winning actress who is widely loved. Her episode is 24 minutes and 27 seconds long. Her confidence starts to waver when she gets to the hot sauce called “Red Flag” and she strays from answering the questions to commenting on the heat, but her competitive nature would not let her stop. She is very easy to like, so it seems wrong that the last third of the episode is so funny.
band together to create and demand the implementation of new, efficient systems for everyone’s benefit.
last week, we learned that Dr ajita Wallace-Pinder was in heart failure and in need of financial support to get the medical care she desperately needed, and still needs today. On Friday, July 26, ajita was transported to Health City Hospital in the Cayman Islands, accompanied by a team of doctors. She underwent surgery for the placement of a left ventricular assist device (lVaD). the lVaD is a batteryoperated pumps that helps the left ventricle to pump blood to the aorta, a large artery that takes oxygenrich blood to the rest of the body. It is important to note that, while it can improve quality of life, the lVaD is not a cure for heart failure. Its benefits include the reduction of symptoms, improvement of organ function, and increased strength for a range of activities. For ajita, the lVaD is a bridge-to-transplant therapy, intended to assist her until she is able to get a heart transplant. With this new device implanted in her chest, ajita will be closely monitored. Hospital stays following lVaD surgery average two to three weeks.
ajita’s family has expressed deep gratitude to the people who have supported her through monetary donations, prayers, and other contributions. Up to four o’clock yesterday afternoon, $102,731 was raised of the $200,000 goal. Much more will be needed to see ajita through the next few weeks and through to her heart transplant. Continued contributions are both welcome and necessary for anita’s post-surgery care and her eventual heart transplant. Please continue to donate to and share the GoFundMe campaign called “Help ajita get a new heart…” at gofund. me/43194ccc.
GBPA’s ArtLucaya raises $10k to help buy art supplies for Grand Bahama Schools
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
AN ART festival held earlier this year has raised $10,000, which will help pay for art supplies for schools on Grand Bahama.
ArtLucaya 2024 was held from April 12-14, under the theme, ‘Show Me Ya Motion!’ and featured works from 50 artists and 16 high school students.
This year’s recipients of donations were the Bishop Michael e ldon School, Lucaya International School, e ight Mile Rock h igh School, Sunland Baptist Academy, Jack h ayward Senior h igh School, and the Art Association Mentoring Programme.
The schools will receive credits at Kelly’s, h ome Fabrics, and Bellevue Gifts to assist their art programmes which encourage artistic development among students.
ArtLucaya2024 founder and chairman Fatima Zahra Kaboub said: “We are committed to nurturing creativity and cultural
enrichment in our community. By supporting our high schools with essential art supplies, we aim to empower the next generation of artists and ensure the sustainability of our vibrant arts community.”
Ben Ferguson Jr, visual arts teacher at Jack hayward Senior high School, said the exhibition helps to elevate the talents and experience of students.
“Art is a very expensive venture. It is great to have access to proper materials, which allows students the opportunity to create fine art and produce exceptional works towards a goal,” he said.
Artist Lisa Codella, ArtLucaya secretary, thanked the Grand Bahama artists who participated, and Ms Kaboub for her vision to showcase local talent and develop Grand Bahama into a hub for art and creativity.
She also commended the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) for its support.
Sarah St George, acting chairman of GBPA, said the ArtLucaya initiative has given artists the
opportunity to showcase their “masterpieces”.
“It’s crucial to nurture and never lose creative talents, as art feeds the soul, inspires, and is an integral part of our culture,” she said.
St George believes that art can also boost tourism and local spending.
She believes that the imminent surge in tourism is anticipated to transform Grand Bahama.
“The next 12 to 24 months will bring an explosion of tourism to our island, driven by the significant increase in cruise ships and passengers expected at the new Carnival Port, Celebration Key, and the expanded harbour,” Ms St George said.
Next year’s ArtLucaya will be held April 4 to 6 in Grand Bahama.
“We are grateful for the community’s support and participation, which has enabled us to make a tangible difference in arts education on the island. ArtLucaya looks forward to continuing to celebrate and promote local talent through future festivals,” Kaboub said.
day of food and culture coming to e ast grand Bahama at 18th seafest homecoming
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
The seaside in high Rock will come alive during the 18th Seafest homecoming festival on emancipation Day on August 5.
Bahamian entertainers Stevie S and Wilfred Solomon and other artists will perform live and there will be seafood, activities, and live cultural entertainment.
Leyland Laing Jr, of the h igh Rock Seafest Committee, said they are excited that the festival has been going strong for 18 years, attracting the best in Bahamian entertainment, locals, and visitors to the community.
Dolan Bartlett, committee chairman, said they are very pleased to have the support of so many
The 18Th Seafest Homecoming Festival will be held on
August 5 in High Rock. Making the announcement are from left are Kwasi Thompson, MP for East Grand Bahama; Dolan Bartlett, chairman of High Rock Seafest Committee; and Ava Andrews, Ministry of Tourism, Investment, and Aviation, Grand Bahama.
sponsors this year, and the continued support of the Grand Bahama community. The event is supported by 12 sponsors this year, including the Ministry of Tourism Investment and Aviation, and Carnival’s Celebration Key.
Dominique Pinder, Celebration Key operations manager, said they are excited to be partnering in community initiatives and projects in GB. With more than $600m in investment in the new cruise port, Ms Pinder said building meaningful and impactful relationships is important to Carnival, especially with communities in east Grand Bahama.
Kwasi Thompson, MP for east Grand Bahama, commended the committee for hosting the festival and keeping it going year after year.
“I am pleased to be a sponsor of this event. east Grand Bahama is becoming known as the capital for festivals, not just here in GB, but in the entire Bahamas. I believe we have the most festivals in the entire Bahamas in the constituency of eGB,” he said.
Ava Andrews, coordinator of groups and events at the MOTIA, said the high Rock Seafest is one of many cultural festivals they support in Grand Bahama.
“We are supportive of events like these that help to strengthen the economy and where visitors can indulge and immerse themselves in our food, culture, and music,” she said.
The Ministry of Tourism will be providing complimentary bus transportation for visitors on the island.
disney c ruise l ine sponsors l Jm m aritime academy summer camp for fifth year
DISNeY Cruise Line is committed to inspiring the next generation of seafarers while creating a lasting, positive impact in The Bahamas. For the fifth year, Disney Cruise Line has sponsored the LJM Maritime Academy summer camp and this year, over 40 campers, ages 10-13 years old, were invited aboard the Disney Wish for a special ship tour. During the tour, they learned about careers
in the maritime industry and met with Bahamian Disney Cruise Line Third Officer, Breann Rahming and Disney Cruise Line First Officer, Warren Louis Corda. The LJM Maritime Academy participants had the opportunity to learn basic nautical skills, survival skills and marine environment protection while getting an overview of the maritime business during the camp. Over the
course of the two-week program, they also learned about the local and global maritime industry and gained a better understanding of career opportunities. In addition to supporting the summer camp, since 2019 Disney Cruise Line has sponsored scholarships for students aspiring to become ship captains and shipboard leaders with the goal of encouraging young people in The Bahamas to explore careers at sea.
Above: Grand Bahama Port Authority’s ArtLucaya 2024 raised $10,000 in proceeds this year. Below: Seen from left Sarah St George, acting chairman of the GB Port Authority; Fatima Zahra-Kaboub, founder and chairman of ArtLucaya; and Lisa Codella, ArtLuaya secretary.
Lamar Taylor wins 100 free heat but doesn’t advance at Olympics
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
PARIS, France — Lamar
Taylor felt he gave it his best shot. It just wasn’t enough to get him into the semifinals of the men’s 100 metre freestyle at the 2024 Olympic Games.
As the first competitor to compete for Team Bahamas at the games, Taylor lowered his Bahamian national record to 48.84 seconds with his victory in the fifth of 10 heats. He ended up 26th overall, which didn’t enable him to come back for a second swim in the semifinals, which included the top 16 qualifiers.
Lowers his national record to 48.84 seconds
Taylor, trying to catch his breath after the long trek through the mixed zone to talk to the media, said he was still pleased with his effort, even though he didn’t advance to the next round. “I just had to execute well and I did pretty well,” said Taylor, who led from the start but struggled at the end of the four laps of the pool. I was pretty happy with the swim, pretty big PR (personal best). I was hoping that I placed well.”
In making his debut at the Olympics, Taylor said it’s similar to the World
LAMAR TAYLOR, of The Bahamas, competes yesterday during a heat in the men’s 100-metre freestyle at the Summer Olympics in Nanterre, France.
Championships where the majority of the top swimmers from around the world get to compete for their country. “You’re pretty much racing the same guys over and over again, so it’s not any unfamiliar faces or anything like that,” Taylor said. “So it’s just pretty much trying to execute and not feeling afraid to race.”
To those persons who supported him in his journey to Paris, Taylor thanked them as he expressed his gratitude for their support, adding that he loves and appreciates them all.
The 21-year-old Taylor, who has switched schools from Henderson State University to the University of Tennessee, might be done with swimming here.
But Team Bahamas has one more competitor to look out for as Rhanishka Gibbs gets set to compete in the women’s 50 metre freestyle before she starts to prepare for her sophomore year at Texas Christian University. The 18-year-old Gibbs will be swimming in the
SEE PAGE 15
Eastwood Judo Club shines at US Judo Open
THE Bahamas came away with two medals at the US Judo Open Championships hosted in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
BAHAMIAN pro boxer
Rashield “Raw” Willams is finally coming down from the emotional high experienced in March when he won the National Boxing Association (NBA) Welterweight championship in Tampa, Florida.
The reigning title-holder is now ready to get back into the ring and he will do just that today against undefeated American Emiliano Moreno at Wednesday Fight Nights hosted at the ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida. Williams, 34, currently owns an 11-2-0 (win/draw/ loss record) with nine knockouts and is
189th in the world. On the other side of
The gifted judoka was pleased with her performance and was happy to see her hard work pay off in a big way.
“I feel great because I know for sure I worked very hard in practice and during class time. I know my practice paid off and I am happy I got this gold,” she said. She added that it felt good to win while representing The Bahamas
Judokas Keilesha Saunders and Kemuel Sterling, of the Eastwood Judo Club, picked up a gold and silver medal respectively at the week-long event. Saunders, 14, competed in four rounds in the golden score female under 53 kg class. She opened the tournament against Evangeline Abbott and won by ippon. Next up was Abigail Yin in the quarterfinals and Saunders took her down by ippon. She battled against Aliyah Golji in the semifinals and defeated her and then proceeded to win via ippon against America’s Tamara Fukumoto to take the gold.
because there are not a lot of Bahamians that participate in judo.
Sterling had a tough opening match in the golden score intermediate male over 52kg division. He lost the opening match via ippon against Nikoloz Tskaruashvili.
He rebounded nicely against Jaden Garcia, winning by ippon and had the same results against Silas Vieaux for a silver medal finish.
He was overwhelmed with joy to leave the tournament as a silver medallist.
“It feels good. I put in hard work and efforts into
THE SPORTS CALENDAR
July,
(AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)
BACK IN ACTION: Rashield Williams, National Boxing Association welterweight champion, will be back in action today against the undefeated Emiliano Moreno at the ProBox Tv Events Centre, Plant City.
WINNING DUO: Keilesha Saunders and Kemuel Sterling picked up gold and silver medals respectively at the 2024 US Judo Open Championships in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
JONQUEL JONES
SENIOR MEN’S NATIONAL BASKETBALL TEAM
Athletes of the Month
Jonquel Jones and the senior men’s national basketball team excel in July
JULY’S edition of the Tribune Athletes of Month honours is a bit different than any other month because instead of naming a male athlete the sports department selected the entire men’s national basketball team to celebrate their quest of trying to make history.
Former WNBA MVP Jonquel “JJ” Jones along with the men’s national basketball team were the highfliers in the month of July.
The Tribune Sports section will recognise the efforts of athletes across all sporting disciplines and award a male and female candidate at the end of each respective month, culminating with the athlete of the year.
The basketball sporting discipline has commenced for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France and unfortunately The Bahamas men’s national basketball team is not in the mix.
Despite that fact, it would be remiss not to acknowledge the brilliant run the Bahamian squad experienced while trying to make their Paris Olympic dreams a reality during the FIBA
Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Valencia, Spain earlier this month.
Male Winner- Men’s national basketball team There were many positive takeaways for The Bahamas from the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The team ran through the group phase knocking off Finland and Poland along the way, remained undefeated until the finals and saw glimpses of NBA potential from Baylor bound Bimini native Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe before they were sent home by Olympic faithful Spain. In the midst of all of these accomplishments, there is one glaring upside that trumps all - the basketball future is bright in The Bahamas.
The Olympic qualifying journey was one that kept Bahamians on the edge of their seats the entire way. The national team headlined by NBA pros Deandre Ayton, Chavano “Buddy” Hield and Eric Gordon saw highschooler VJ Edgecombe turn heads on the big stage.
Edgecombe made his national team debut with a bang against Finland in the group phase. He
dropped 20 points, pulled in four rebounds and two steals while posting a few highlight reels. Hield was a sniper from deep, making 6-of-12 threes to notch a game-high 24 points. The Bahamas won the tournament opener 96-85.
The next victim of the Bahamas’ wrath was Poland. The Bahamas cruised into a 90-81 victory with VJ Edgecombe leading the charge once again. He poured in a team-high 21 points complemented by six rebounds and two assists. Buddy mailed in
ESPN Fantasy Football Ultimate Draft Weekend at
BAHA Mar, the Bahamas’ leading luxury resort today announced it is collaborating with ESPN
Fantasy Football, the No. 1 most popular fantasy football platform, to host the first ESPN Fantasy Football
Ultimate Draft Weekend at Baha Mar next month.
Taking place from August 22-25, the Ultimate Draft Weekend will feature an array of curated luxury experiences geared toward the fantasy football enthusiast, including draft insights and analysis from ESPN Fantasy Football experts and a buzzworthy Draft Day.
“We’re thrilled to work with ESPN Fantasy Football to host the inaugural ESPN Fantasy Football Ultimate Draft Weekend at Baha Mar this August,” says Graeme Davis, president of Baha Mar.
“ESPN Fantasy Football is the most popular game in the world of fantasy sports and, like Baha Mar, loves to bring people together for amazing, world-class fan experiences.
“We look forward to welcoming the different leagues to our fabulous resort and putting forth spectacular experiences for them to enjoy during our upcoming draft weekend.”
The event will feature ESPN Fantasy Football experts Field Yates,
Stephania Bell, Mike Clay, and Daniel Dopp.
Participants at Baha Mar will be able to mix and mingle with ESPN’s experts throughout the weekend, participate in a Q&A session, and receive detailed draft analysis from them leading up to the Live Draft on Saturday afternoon, August 24.
“Every year, Fantasy Football leagues around the world gather with their friends and family to kick off the season,” says Alexander Healy-Lucciola, senior director of marketing, Fantasy and Sports Betting at ESPN.
“The draft is one of the best days of the year, bringing everyone together to choose their teams and play out league traditions.
“Partnering with Baha Mar to provide a worldclass destination draft highlights the unique ways that ESPN continues to provide fans with the best possible Fantasy experience.”
As part of Pre-Draft activities, on Friday, August 23, leagues will have the opportunity to participate
a double-double with 17 points and 10 assists while Ayton pooled in 18 points and nine rebounds.
With the group phase now done, the stakes were even higher moving into the semis. Bahamian big man Ayton bullied Lebanon in the paint for 24 points and 15 rebounds.
Buddy had yet another double-double performance, this time with 19 points and 10 assists. The Bahamas was now one win away from the Olympics after drubbing Lebanon 89-72.
The Bahamian fanbase was filled with belief that the team was gonna make history as the first sports team to make it to the Olympics but Spain got the best of the group in finals 86-78.
The team finished with a 3-1 record in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for the second position overall.
Buddy led the team in scoring and assists. He averaged 19.8 ppg, 5.8 assists and 5.3 rebounds.
Ayton put up 19.5 ppg, 11.8 rebounds and shot 64.2 per cent.
VJ delivered 16.5 ppg, 5.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists.
Gordon averaged 14 points and shot 44 per cent from deep. What a run.
Female WinnerJonquel Jones Grand Bahama native Jonquel “JJ” Jones continues to cement herself as one of the greatest Bahamian basketball players of all time. Jones was named to her fifth All-Star game earlier in July. The starstudded affair took place two weekends ago at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona.
Jones played limited minutes but still managed to turn in six points, seven rebounds and five assists in the 117-109 for Team WNBA.
The New York Liberty centre had a busy weekend as she also competed in the second WNBA three-point contest of her career. She was one moneyball shot away from becoming the first post player to win the three-point title. She scored 25 points and led all scorers in the semifinals. The 30-year-old will return from the All-Star break against the Los Angeles Sparks on August 15.
Stay tuned for the August edition of Tribune Athletes of the Month.
in a competitive “Draft Combine” to determine their league’s draft order, including beach races, a football skills competition, slide races, and more.
Other options for participants to choose from include a day of golf at Baha Mar’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Royal Blue golf course, miniature golf at Mini Blue, a basketball combine, a blackjack tournament, and a day of leisure by the pool or the resort’s Cable Beach.
The evening will conclude with a Draft Prep Cocktail Reception featuring ESPN Fantasy Football experts breaking down draft strategies for the 2024-25 season.
On Saturday, all leagues will get ready for Draft Day with a final draft prep session, the “2-Minute Drill,” prior to the 4pm Live Draft. All leagues will gather in the Baha Mar Convention Grand Ballroom to make their final picks. The weekend will close with a Draft Celebration Party at Marcus at Baha Mar Fish + Chop House. The event will be managed by bdG
Decathlete Ken Mullings ready to compete at the Paris Olympics
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
PARIS, France — Ken
Mullings said he can’’t wait to get out on the track to compete in the men’s decathlon at the 2024 Olympic Games.
The decathlon is probably the most gruelling event to compete in as athletes have a total of 10 events to participate in over a twoday period.
Points are accumulated based on the performances in each of the individual events, but the athlete must complete the 10 events or their scores won’t count.
On day one, the athletes compete in the 100m, long jump, shot put, high jump and 400m. The final day they have the 110m hurdles, discus throw, pole vault, javelin throw and the 1,500m run.
The decathlon begins on Friday, August 2 and wraps up on Saturday, August 3.
Mullings is the only Bahamian to be awarded a spot in the field of competitors, based on their performances in other meets.
Mullings said his preparation went very well.
Since he arrived in Paris from last week, he said he went through some training sessions with the hurdles, shot put and javelin.
“So far, the sessions have been going very well with coaches (Corrington) Maycock and (James) Rolle, who have helped me,” Mullings said.
Having proven that he deserves to be here among the top competitors in the world, the Bahamian national record holder said his aim is to beat them all.
“It’s ten events and so once I execute, anything could happen,” he said.
“I’m sure, once I execute and do what I have to do, I’m pretty sure I can get on the podium.”
Although he’s been having some steady progress, even to the point where he’s gone head-tohead with injured Kendrick Thompson in lowering the Bahamian national record a couple of times, Mullings
“It’s 10 events and so once I execute, anything could happen. I’m sure, once I execute and do what I have to do, I’m pretty sure I can get on the podium. Every year, I focus on being patient, but this year it was easier to execute under the right coaches and with the right equipment.”
admitted that there’s still a lot of room for improvement.
“Every year, I focus on being patient, but this year it was easier to execute under the right coaches and with the right equipment,” he charged.
“So it was easy to progress in the right direction.”
Mullings said he and his coaches were able to go back and look at his faults and they were able to correct the little mistakes that he’s made.
If there’s any one event that Mullings feels has been his Achilles heel, it’s the 1,500 metres, which brings the curtain on the competition when the athletes have to muster up that extra bit of energy to push through the three and three quarter laps. “Because of the way
— Ken Mullings
my training was set up earlier in the season, I would be very strong in my explosive events,” Mullings said.
“But coming down the line when we realised that it wasn’t helping with the 1,500m, we made some adjustments to twitch it without sacrificing my speed for the other events.
“But I feel like I’m in better shape, not like 3:50 like the open 1,500m runners.
“But I feel I will be right there to compete with the best of them.”
In making his first Olympic Games, Mullings said he’s enjoying the food and the firmer beds that they are sleeping in. “Everybody has been so welcoming,” said Mullings of the time they arrived at the airport to get into the games
village. “I don’t feel any nerves as yet. “But I actually like to compete when I feel a little bit of nerves. I actually get more out of my body when I feel nervous.”
While the competition is based strictly on the amount of points each athlete scores, which is then accumulated for the overall
total for final positioning, Mullings said he has his goal in mind. “I won’t say it out now, but I’m focusing on more individual results and the individual results will get the points instead of focusing on the overall points,” he said. Mullings, 27, has posted a lifetime total of 8,176 points, a mark he should have surpassed, but if that’s all he does, then the trip here won’t be as worthwhile for him. He anticipates that it has to be more than that in order for him to be a force to reckon with in the games over the two days of competition here.
US MEN’S SOCCER TEAM ENDS 24-YEAR WAIT TO REACH QF AT OLYMPICS
By JAMES ROBSON AP Soccer Writer
SAINT-ETIENNE, France (AP) — To chants of “U.S.A.” America’s men ended a 24-year wait to reach the quarterfinals of the Olympic soccer tournament by beating Guinea 3-0 yesterday.
Two goals from Kevin Paredes and a brilliant free kick from Djordje Mihailovic secured the victory that meant the U.S. advanced in second place behind Group A winner France, which beat New Zealand 3-0.
The Americans — playing in the Olympics for the
Victory in Saint-Etienne saw the U.S. reach the knockout phase of the Games for the first time since Sydney 2000, and it will play Morocco in Paris on Friday. “Right now I’m living this moment and we’ll analyse what it means once we are done with it,” U.S. coach Marko Mitrovic said.
first time since Beijing 2008 — responded impressively to their opening 3-0 loss to France by winning backto-back games against New Zealand and Guinea.
Next up is a Morocco team that finished atop Group B and beat Argentina along the way.
“I watched actually the first game against Argentina,” Mitrovic said. “I was in my room, our game was 9pm, theirs was 3pm. I actually think they are a very, very good team.”
A win against Morocco would see the U.S. emulate its performance in Sydney when it reached the semifinals. “We came here to be who we are and I think we did it again today and we just have to recover and go to the next game,” Mitrovic said.
Mihailovic, who hit the bar when the score was still goalless in the game against France, scored a curling free kick from the edge of the area to give the U.S. the lead in the 14th minute.
Paredes slotted in his first in the 31st and powered in another in the 75th. France vs. Argentina
It will be a repeat of the World Cup final when France meets Argentina in the quarterfinals in Bordeaux on Friday.
Argentina won that epic contest on penalties after a 3-3 draw in Qatar in 2022 and rivalries between the nations could be intensified by racist chants made by Argentina’s players after
they won the Copa America this month.
“I won’t talk about it,” France coach Thierry Henry said yesterday.
“We just qualified. We’re going to play a game. My head is still into this game,” he said.
France maintained its 100% record at the tournament with victory over New Zealand in Marseille through goals from Jean-Philippe Mateta, Desire Doue and Arnaud Kalimuendo.
DECATHLETE Ken Mullings says he can’’t wait to get out on the track to compete in the men’s decathlon at the 2024 Olympic Games. The decathlon is probably the most gruelling event to compete in as athletes have a total of 10 events over a two-day period.
Cynthia Rahming nominated for the Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame
By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter
RETIRED Bahamian
judoka Cynthia Rahming is enjoying the serene retirement life these days since hanging up her judogi for good in October last year.
She has impacted the sport of judo in countless ways on and off the mat over the years and those efforts did not go unrecognised.
Rahming has been nominated for induction into the prestigious Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame for her dedication to promoting the growth of martial arts within the Bahamian community.
She was at home when she received the news via e-mail and is still surprised by the nomination.
“I was actually very surprised. I retired in October of last year so I really didn’t expect it because I thought my judo career was over in that way.
“When I was told that I was nominated because of my impact in the sport it was nice. It felt nice to be recognised for the things that I had done within my time,” she said.
The former judoka commenced her career in the sport in 2009 competing at the Olympic Qualifiers at 15-years-old.
Throughout the course of her 14-year career, she has competed at six World Championships, four Grand Slams, four Continental Championships, five Grand Prixs, 16 Continental Opens, two Commonwealth Games, three Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games and one youth Olympics.
She was the first Bahamian to win a continental medal in judo with a bronze medal finish at the Pan American Open Championships in 2019.
During the peak of her judo career, she was ranked 8th in the Pan American Region and 96th in the World Ranking and was also the first Bahamian to hold a qualification spot for judo.
Her work in judo went far beyond her individual accomplishments in the sport.
Rahming also shared her expertise with the young judokas following in her footsteps. She was a part of the coaching staff for The Bahamas national
judo team that picked up a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games in 2018.
Additionally, she co-ran the largest judo club in The Bahamas from 2016-2020.
As a true pioneer in the world of martial arts, she gave her outlook on the
Williams back in ring today
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boxer and a very strong young fighter but my confidence level is still really high because I know that I am prepared,” he said.
The 34-year-old is more confident than ever after successfully winning the NBA Welterweight title earlier this year against Uruguayan pro Andres Viera.
He only needed two rounds before taking out his opponent one minute and 20 seconds into the second round of the bout.
He acknowledged that his newest opponent is gifted and he is certainly right. Moreno is ranked no. 123 in the world and recently defeated Puerto Rico’s Axl Melendez Salgado via unanimous decision in an eight-round bout in February. The reigning champion, who is not defending his title just yet, is anticipating a hard-fought matchup and expects his preparation to result in a win.
“I am gonna win. The preparation was good. I am physically strong, mentally and spiritually ready. I need
to break him down more to the body because he is a taller fighter than I am. I gotta work into the body and break him down for about three rounds before I take him out. I am expecting it to be a good fight,” he said. Since picking up the championship hardware, he has been contacted about more big fights and is definitely excited to fight against tougher opponents going forward.
The pro boxer plans to take his career to new heights in the professional boxing ranks.
their own careers they have all developed in different ways. Unfortunately, we do not have a training centre that is adequate enough for the international scene so everybody has to travel and find training outside of The Bahamas.
“I think if these athletes could get the funding and support then they will succeed. There is a lot of black crab syndrome when it comes to politics of which athletes should be pushed forward. Even though judo is an individual sport, you need training partners, you need support from your teammates, because all of that kind of contributes to the ease of your journey,” she said.
current judo landscape in The Bahamas.
“We have several really good Bahamians right now in the senior circuit who are all males. We have Andrew Munnings, the Strachan boys and Xavion Johnson and within the scope of
In addition to adequate funding and support, Rahming is hoping that more young women will try their hands at judo.
It has been about nine months since the 30-yearold put judo in the rearview to focus on art full-time.
According to the former
Pan-Am bronze medallist, she has loved every single aspect of retirement so far and it is everything she could have asked for.
“I love it. I have put all of my energy and discipline from the hours into training into my art. The last time we spoke, I told you that I was pursuing my art career. I now have two pieces going into the D’Aguilar Art Foundation solo show in September, and I was able to travel last year and I’ve made that into a private collection as well with pieces that I created so it is on the up and up,” she said. Although she is not spending her time throwing opponents to the mat these days, she is never really that far away from judo because her fiancé Andrew Munnings is a current judoka. Nonetheless, she has no regrets and does not miss the brutal training sessions.
The 29th Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame will be staged August 15-17 in Houston, Texas.
Eastwood Judo Club shines at US Judo Open
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getting this medal. This is one of the hardest sports so it feels good representing the country,” he said.
Mickey Munnings, instructor of the Eastwood Judo Club, was very proud to see the club’s athletes turn in some good performances. “I feel very proud of myself and my athletes.
They had three days of real tough fights and the performances were very good.
“Each year we have brought them out we have seen a lot of improvements. We are fortunate to come out with a gold and a silver,” he said.
He is hoping that other judo clubs can partake in travel experiences of this
magnitude and wants the Eastwood Judo Club to compete at more international tournaments.
“Our intention is to continue to go forward and we are looking to get into more international tournaments,” he said. Munnings thanked corporate sponsors that aided in the team’s travel expenses.
THE BAHAMAS 2024 BILLIE JEAN KING CUP TEAM READY FOR COMPETITION
almost time for the 2024 Billie Jean King Cup (BJKC) -Grupo III Americas to get underway. The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association(BLTA) 2024 BJKC team consists of Simone Pratt, Sydney Clarke, Danielle Thompson and Tatyana Madu. All players have represented previously with the exception of Tatyana Madu, 14, who is making her BJKC debut. The captain of the team is former BJKC player and Level 1 Coach Kim O’Kelley. The team will be competing Monday, August 5 to Saturday, August 10 in Trinidad and Tobago at the National Racquet Centre.
The countries to be represented are Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Jamaica,
St Lucia and the host nation Trinidad and Tobago. These 10 teams will compete in two pools of five. The promotional play-offs will be as follows: A1 v B2 and B1 v A2. Two nations will be promoted. “Team Bahamas has a tremendous amount of talent and we are pleased with the balanced representation with two players hailing from Nassau - Sydney Clarke and Danielle Thompson and two players from Grand Bahama - Simone Pratt and Tatyana Madu.
“Pratt and Madu also have in common being named to the BJKC team for the first time at the age of 14. We have a great mix of experience and talent. Newcomer Madu and Team Bahamas participated in March 2024 in the Jr BJKC with a solid performance,
ending as one of the last four teams standing. The current Giorgio Baldacci Open national champion Pratt has received 10 team nominations and played in 24 ties with her last appearance in the Dominican Republic in 2023. Clarke is a 2024 graduate of University of Alabama Birmingham with a standout collegiate career. She has already received seven team nominations and played in 16 ties with her last appearance in 2023 in the Dominican Republic. Thompson has received four team nominations and participated in nine ties with her last appearance in 2019 in Peru. The BLTA wishes the team the very best as they represent the Bahamas on the global stage in Trinidad starting on Monday August 5.
GREAT IMPACT: Retired judoka Cynthia Rahming has seen her years of dedication to judo pay off with a nomination for the Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
Lamar Taylor wins 100m freestyle heat but doesn’t advance at Paris Olympics
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preliminaries of the women’s 50 metre freestyle on Saturday.
She competes in lane seven in the seventh of 10 heats with a lifetime best of 26.22.
With a few more days to go before she competes, coach Travano McPhee said they have been making sure that she gets acclimatised to be in Paris.
“Hopefully we can get a PB (personal best) and we will see where that takes us,” said McPhee, who noted that the Bahamas Olympic Committee has done a great job ensuring that both Gibbs and Taylor were ready for competition.
To the younger swimmers who one day hope to be the next Olympian to represent The Bahamas, McPhee assured that “hard work does pay off,” as he encouraged them to follow in the footsteps of both Gibbs and Taylor.
Both Gibbs and Taylor fell short of the qualifying standards for the games, but they were invited by FINA to compete based on their ranking in their respective events.
PARIS OLYMPICS DAY 4: BILES CELEBRATES YET ANOTHER OLYMPIC GOLD WHILE GAUFF FUMES OVER CALL IN LOSS
By TALES AZZONI AP Sports Writer
PARIS (AP) — Simone
Biles reached the top of the podium yet again, cementing her legacy as the greatest American gymnast and one of the best athletes in the history of the Olympics.
Biles helped the United States win the women’s team event yesterday to secure her fifth Olympic gold medal and put the U.S. back on top of the sport after a second-place finish three years ago in Tokyo.
Biles became the most decorated American gymnast in front of a crowd that included Nicole Kidman, Natalie Portman, Serena Williams, Spike Lee, Michael Phelps and Nadia Comaneci at a raucous Bercy Arena.
It was the eighth Olympic medal for the 27-year-old Biles, who was previously tied with Shannon Miller at seven.
Italy won the silver medal, and Brazil got the bronze.
There were no such triumphs in swimming for the Americans, who couldn’t manage more than silver and bronze medals. In tennis, it was Coco Gauff left fuming over an officiating decision in a loss to Donna Vekic of Croatia.
There were no winners or losers in men’s triathlon, which was as postponed because of concerns about the water quality in the Seine River amid a heat wave that made life difficult on some athletes and fans in Paris.
US swimming woes
Australian Kaylee McKeown knocked off world record holder Regan Smith of the United States in the 100 backstroke to defend her the title from the Tokyo Games.
Smith couldn’t hold off the hard-charging Aussie, who touched the wall in
57.33 seconds to win by a relatively comfortable margin over Smith’s 57.66. The U.S. also grabbed the bronze with Katharine Berkoff.
In the men’s 800 freestyle, Daniel Wiffen won Ireland’s first gold medal in swimming since scandal-plagued Michelle Smith won three events in 1996. Defending champion Bobby Finke of the U.S. got the silver. The night’s other gold medal went to Britain, which defended its title in the men’s 4x200 freestyle relay, with the U.S. earning yet another silver.
Gauff upset The scene felt all too familiar to Gauff. An officiating decision she was sure was wrong. A chair umpire who wouldn’t listen. Tears streaming down her cheeks. And, most disappointing of all, a loss, this time at the Paris Games.
Even the site was the same: Court Philippe Chatrier was where the reigning U.S. Open champion was eliminated in the third round at the Summer Games by Donna Vekic of Croatia 7-6 (7), 6-2. That’s also the main stadium used annually for the French Open, where Gauff found herself in a nearly identical dispute over a call while being defeated by eventual champion Iga Swiatek in the semifinals last month.
“There’s been multiple times this year where that’s happened to me — where I felt like I always have to be an advocate for myself on the court,” Gauff said afterward, renewing a call for video review to be used in tennis, as it is in many other professional sports.
Gauff was the female flag bearer for the United States during the opening ceremony on Friday. Also in tennis, Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz advanced into the doubles quarterfinals with a 6-4, 6-7
(2), 10-2 match tiebreaker victory over Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof of the Netherlands. No. 1-ranked Iga Swiatek defeated No. 52 Wang Xiyu of China 6-2, 6-4. Triathlon postponed The men’s triathlon scheduled for Tuesday was postponed because of concerns about the water quality in the Seine River. It was rescheduled for today, when the women’s competition is also slated to be held. But both will happen only if water tests show acceptable levels of E. coli and other bacteria. Friday is also planned as a backup date. There is rain forecast Tuesday night through Thursday, which could complicate rescheduling because rain generally causes an increase
in bacteria levels in the Seine, the long-polluted waterway that has gone through an expensive cleanup effort.
“It’s disappointing that there’s this negative aspect now with the delay,” American triathlete Seth Rider said. “But I hope we can have a triathlon and I can accomplish this dream that I’ve had since I was a little kid.”
Heat wave
After enduring the rain in the opening ceremony, athletes now are having to deal with the heat.
Most of France is under heat warnings, with temperatures in Paris hitting 36 degrees Celsius (97 Fahrenheit), the national weather agency said.
Air conditioning is far less common in French homes, shops and restaurants than
in places like the United States. The heat was even worse in the south, including the region around the Mediterranean cities of Marseille
TEAM USA from left to right, Jade Carey, Suni Lee, Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles and Hezly Rivera celebrate after winning the gold medal during the women’s artistic gymnastics team finals round at Bercy Arena at the Summer Olympics yesterday. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
LAMAR TAYLOR, of The Bahamas, competes during a heat in the men’s 100-metre freestyle at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Nanterre, France. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)