09062024 NEWS AND SPORT

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MAN SHOT DEAD IN FRONT OF FAMILY

Horror at scene of morning murder

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter Ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

Eddie Miller had just returned to his car from a shop at a plaza at the corner of Faith Avenue and Cowpen Road when he was killed, according to eyewitnesses.

“He opened his door, but he looked at me like he had no chance to reach back in his car,” said Samuel Rolle, a witness. “I mean, they put at least five or six shots in him.”

Mom’s plea to fund burial of brothers killed in crash

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE heartbroken mother of three young men killed in a traffic accident on Monday is appealing for donations to help cover her sons’ burial costs. Philip McCarron Christie, 24, Philip D’Caprio Christie, 23, and D’Angelo Christie, 20, were killed in

a collision shortly after 2am on Monday.

The vehicle crashed into a tree off Sir Milo Butler Highway after the driver lost control. The 24-year-old driver and the 23-year-old front-seat passenger were trapped inside and died at the scene, while the rear-seat passenger succumbed to his injuries in hospital.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Lovan Christie, the mother of the men, said their deaths have left an unimaginable emptiness in her life, making it difficult for her to cope.

“My heart is broken in ways I can’t even begin to describe,” Mrs Christie said.

“My heart is comforted by the calls, well-wishes, and

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

A SENIOR Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) employee who audited vendors under the Minnis administration said she identified potential conflicts of interest concerning contracts the corporation awarded.

THE wife of the country’s latest murder victim cried over her husband as their children clung to his disfigured body after he was shot dead early yesterday morning.

THE SCENE of yesterday morning’s murder outside a shopping plaza in the Carmichael area where a man was gunned down by masked men in front of his family. Onlookers at the scene were emotional in the aftermath of the shooting.

Photos: Nikia Charlton

EDDIE MILLER

‘Sign

up to say no to power rate hike’

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE Free National Movement has launched a petition against the Grand Bahama Power Company over its proposed rate hike.

The FNM wants 2,000 signatures from residents and businesses over the next few days.

Samuel Dawkins, chairman of the party’s Central Grand Bahama Association, and Ron Dar ville Jr, first vice chairman of the Marco City Associa tion, reported that residents have been responsive to the petition.

“Grand Bahamians are eager to sign the petition; we are on the ground going all over gathering signatures,” he said.

Mr Dawkins said now is not the time for an increase, as Grand Bahama’s economy is still struggling.

On August 1, the power company submitted a rate plan proposal to the Grand Bahama Port Authority, seeking approval for a 6.3 percent increase in the base rate. If approved, the rate will be effective on January 1, 2025.

Residents and business operators oppose the hike and have expressed concerns over high fuel surcharges, frequent outages, and damage to household appliances due to power surges.

Ron Darville Jr said there has been significant public outcry over the high cost of electricity on the island.

“We want the stakeholders to understand that it is not just a political party or activists who have a concern; it is the general public, and they want their voices to be heard,” he said.

Mr Darville is optimistic

cials will achieve and exceed their signature target.

“The response has been overwhelming,” he said. “We are out on the ground speaking with people, and the response is very good.” In pre vious protests against the GBPC, residents called for more accountability from the company concerning the Storm Recovery and Stabilization (SRS) charge to recoup the costs of Hurricane Dorian. Residents pay 1.3 cents per kilowatt hour, com-

Man shot dead in front of family

from page one

“The wife was crying, ‘Oh, my husband’, and the young kids were just around the body, holding the body and crying saying, ‘my daddy, my daddy.’ It’s terrible.”

Officer-in-charge of the southwestern division Tess Newbold said officers received information about a shooting shortly after 9am.

Officers found a man lying on the ground with gunshot wounds. She said three masked men reportedly approached the man from a white vehicle, shot him, and then escaped west along Cowpen Road.

She could not say if Miller was known to police.

Loved ones mourned the

victim at the scene, and bystanders expressed shock, especially because the victim’s children, wearing school uniforms, witnessed their father’s murder. Mr Rolle beckoned for the government to intervene and stop the killings.

“Right now, it’s scary,” he said. “These people ain’t got no regard when they coming to kill someone. They don’t care if your kids there, they don’t care if your wife there.”

Nearby, at SQS Food, Judy Davis was present when the shooting occurred. The staff, shaken by the incident, closed early for the day.

At first, Ms Davis thought the sounds were from a generator outside.

“Unfortunately, when one of the co-workers looked on the other side of the window, she noticed that there were shots going off, and so when she said someone is being shot at, I was like, you gotta be joking,” she said.

“We were serving customers, and everybody moved away from the window and inside. We panicked because we didn’t know if we needed to come outside or stay inside. To be honest, I was not even able to get down when they said get down low. I stood right up, and the only thing I said was, Jesus, have mercy.”

Carlos Reid, a Ministry of National Security consultant, said he met Miller a few times. He said he was a hard worker, a building contractor, and the owner of a car wash company on Market Street.

“One time ago, if somebody had a beef with you and they saw you with the kids, they would let that slide,” he said. “But nowadays, this new generation of gangsters, they don’t care. If you with your mother, grandmother, they don’t care; kids around.”

Mr Reid is particularly concerned about the trauma the incident could impose on Miller’s son. He said: “To witness his father killed in the front of him, do you know what kind of mindset that could break inside that young man? That’s my main concern at this particular time.”

TEARS from onlookers at the scene of yesterday morning’s shooting.

Photos: Nikia Charlton

‘Talks held’ over BTVI issues

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMAS Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) president Linda Davis responded to questions concerning a protest by unionised BTVI staff a month ago. She said the administration has engaged in discussions with the

Bahamas Union of Teachers (UTEP) and the Bahamas General Workers Union, addressing various challenges.

“Industrial relations are industrial relations, and BTVI has embraced the opportunity to partner with unions, to partner with all stakeholders, and I believe the unions would be the first to say that we have been very open and

amenable to working out differences,” she said. She added that the smooth start to the academic year indicates a period of relative stability “at least at this juncture”, considering that UTEB threatened industrial action at their protest back in mid-July. “We have sat to the table, as we do with both unions, not only UTEB but the

Bahamas General Workers Union, and we’ve worked through where there have been challenges,” she said. “Will there be no issues going forward? I doubt that. But, you know, I have a saying that a mentor of mine always said: In conflict, sometimes the best decisions and actions emerge, and so we look forward to working very closely with unions, with all

stakeholders.” She said supplementary agreements involving unionized staff have been worked on. One agreement, she said, spoke to the workload for instructors.

“I believe, as indicated as we began the semester, the academic year without incident, as far as I’m aware, we are on a good wicket, as they say in cricket,” she said.

US LINK-UP WITH INSTITUTE SEEKS TO BRING OPPORTUNITIES

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN students at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute

(BTVI) now have greater access to US educational opportunities following the opening of the Education USA Advising Center on the campus.

The centre, which aims to guide students interested in studying in the United States, was officially opened in a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday.

Dr Linda Davis, BTVI’s president, described the new resource as a vital step in preparing Bahamian students for global academic opportunities.

“This centre will give our students direct access to accurate, current, and

comprehensive information about accredited institutions in the US,” said Dr Davis, adding that the partnership between BTVI and the US Embassy underscores their mutual commitment to education.

The centre will offer BTVI students assistance with college applications and scholarships and help them understand US visa processes. It is also expected to serve the wider Bahamian public.

Giselle Dubinsky, regional manager for Education USA, emphasised the centre’s ability to connect students with quality education in the US, saying: “This is a significant step in expanding academic opportunities for Bahamian students.”

Newly appointed Education USA advisor Brianne

Marshall will be on hand to help students navigate the US education system.

Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training Glenys Hanna Martin praised the initiative for its alignment with BTVI’s forward-thinking vision.

“This centre will help students here at BTVI see beyond, preparing them for further success both locally and internationally,” she said. As a part of the global

EducationUSA network, the centre joins over 430 such advising centres worldwide. Its mission is to provide accurate and comprehensive guidance for students aspiring to study in the US by connecting them to accredited postsecondary institutions.

Located within BTVI, the EducationUSA Center offers workshops and resources to help Bahamians navigate the complex US college application process.

AT FULL CAPACITY WITH NEAR 3,000 STUDENTS

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter

kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) is at full capacity with its student body, having “just shy of about 3,000” students, according to BTVI

president Linda Davis. She said BTVI expects to expand its physical presence across The Bahamas with new campus facilities nearing completion on several Family Islands. “New Providence has approximately 1,500, Grand Bahama just over 500, and then we have [students] throughout the Family Islands,” she said.

“We have a physical extension campus in Exuma that is near completion, Eleuthera at Greencastle, and one in Abaco, which is close to completion.”

Ms Davis said the vocational institute works with

“We are at capacity for the most part, particularly during the evening hours. We’re now pushing with people coming back to campus to utilise the whole day and the whole week, which will allow us to accept more students.”

the Department of Education to provide instructional service sites, one set up at Huntley Christie High School on North Andros and one on Moore Island.

According to BTVI’s website, newer campuses, such as the Eleuthera and Exuma branches, were developed by retrofitting old school buildings and are expected to accommodate growing demand by Fall 2024. These locations offer a variety of specialised labs and facilities tailored to different trades, such as automotive, construction, and cosmetology.

TRAVEL FIRM SUPPORTS SCHOOL

LEISURE Travel and Tours has donated school supplies to Palmdale Primary School’s Math Initiative. The initiative is an effort aimed at elevating students’ proficiency in mathematics. In a statement, the company said: “At Leisure Travel and Tours, we believe that corporate responsibility plays a crucial role in the growth and development of the communities we serve. By supporting educational initiatives like Palmdale Primary’s Math Initiative, we are not only helping to raise academic standards but are also contributing to the broader development of our community.

“This initiative was more than just a corporate decision; it was a collective effort by the entire Leisure Travel and Tours team. We encouraged our employees to contribute to this meaningful cause, with the company matching every dollar donated by our team members. This collaborative approach allowed us to provide essential resources needed to enhance the school’s math curriculum. Dr Clinton Josey, the principal of Palmdale Primary School, said: “We are deeply grateful for this partnership, and this contribution will significantly impact our students’ math skills.”

FROM left, Rhodea Robinson, Aydin Williamson, Gabrerille Kelson (math coordinator), Nazmoon Pinder-Seymour (executive administration manager - LTT), Nathanria Williams (vice principal), Dr Clinton Josey (principal), Tavara Johnson (human resources manager - LTT), Renard Cordova, and Petra Ferguson.

LINDA DAVIS

US Chargé d’Affaires Kimberley Furnish and Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training Glenys Hanna Martin were present for the opening of the Educatio USA Advising Center yesterday. Photos: Nikia Charlton

Mom’s plea to fund burial of brothers killed in crash

from page one

She said monetary donations can be deposited into her Scotiabank account, #002526524, branch number 59105.

“Any donation, no matter how big or small, will be a blessing as I navigate this painful journey,” she said. “Your kindness, love, and prayers mean

more to me than words can express. I know that nothing can bring my sons back, but your support will help ease some of the financial burden I face and will allow me to focus on keeping their memories alive in my heart.”

The two eldest Christie brothers were employed by Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) and Bahamas Power and

Light (BPL), while the third brother worked at BAMSI. In a flyer released yesterday, BAMSI remembered D’Angelo as a two-time institute graduate. In 2024, he completed a certification as a nature tour guide. In 2023, he graduated with an associate degree in environmental science, receiving the award for excellence in his field of study.

Witness concern at ‘potential’ of contract conflict

Dian Saunders-Adderley, assistant general manager, suggested yesterday that one such instance occurred when Elwood Donaldson, the corporation’s former general manager, collected a cheque for $2,300 on behalf of Adams Landscaping for ground maintenance work.

She said his signature appeared on WSC’s document controls and other documents required for the company’s payment.

This was one of several findings included in her audit report, details of which she read into evidence in court yesterday.

Asked if the WSC prohibited an employee from collecting a vendor’s cheque, the witness said it did not.

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions

Cordell Frazier, referring to the audit report, asked the witness to explain why she had it as the appearance of a conflict of interest.

The witness responded that when a cheque is issued to a company or vendor and collected by a corporation employee, it blurs the lines of separation, raising concerns that the employee may have undue access to the vendor involved in the project.

However, Mr Donaldson’s attorney, Ian Cargill, suggested that the witness’s comments were contradictory, given her earlier testimony that collecting a vendor’s cheque was not prohibited.

In response, Mrs Saunders-Adderley explained that while the corporation did not prohibit employees from collecting cheques on behalf of vendors, a letter of authorisation

was required for this. She said no such letter was provided.

“Inferences can be drawn as to how he acquired such authorisation without the letter,” she said.

Testifying on other findings in her report, the witness highlighted an email from Mr Donaldson instructing a WSC employee to process payments for Adams Landscaping without “Mr Antonio’s” sign-off, saying he would do so upon his return the following week.

Mrs Saunders-Adderley noted that the employee never did so and described this as a “complete disregard” for WSC’s internal controls.

She said there was no indication that the work was done.

The witness then highlighted a March 2020 email from the corporation’s accounts manager to Mr

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH HELP

IN CELEBRATION of the new school year, Kelly’s House & Home hosted its annual Back to School giveaway.

A special event was held - in which customers had to spend $50 or more on school supplies and scan a QR Code to enter to win one of two Huffy bikes, one of two fully loaded school baskets, one of two gift certificates or a giant Crayola crayon.

FORMER AG TO OBSERVE SRI LANKA ELECTION

FORMER Attorney General Allyson Maynard Gibson will observe Sri Lanka’s presidential election, which will be held on September 21, as a member of the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG). Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland, KC, announced the 14-member group, saying: “Election observation work is a core strength of the commonwealth, providing vital support to the process and institutions of democracy across our member states, in line with the principles and aspirations of our charter.”

The independent observer group will verify whether the election adheres to Sri Lanka’s electoral laws and meets applicable regional, Commonwealth, and international standards. The observers will follow the International Declaration of Principles for Election Observation, originally endorsed by the Commonwealth at the UN in 2005, to ensure that the process is conducted with professionalism and integrity. After the assignment, the COG will submit a report with its observations and recommendations.

Donaldson, confirming receipt of an invoice from Adams Landscaping.

The accounts manager reportedly noted that the company’s tax compliance certificate had expired. Still, Mr Donaldson allegedly instructed her to process the payment anyway, claiming they would update the certificate once it was received.

The witness claimed Adams Landscaping did not immediately do so despite being paid on April 1, 2020.

“Is there a requirement meant by the Water and Sewerage Corporation for there to be tax compliance?” Ms Frazier asked. The witness confirmed that there was.

In another email a month later, the accounts manager raised concerns with Mr Donaldson about several vendors seeking payments without providing the updated information

needed to proceed.

Among those listed was Adams Landscaping, which had submitted another invoice for landscaping maintenance days before the email was sent.

After the manager asked Mr Donaldson to review the vendors and provide further advice, the former WSC general manager instructed her to “go ahead and process” the payment for Adams Landscaping.

“No mention was made of the other vendors, indicating bias towards Adams Landscaping and general maintenance,” Mrs Saunders-Adderley testified.

She said a second payment to Adams Landscaping further demonstrated “undue impartiality” given that their tax compliance documents were still not updated.

Yesterday, she also briefly testified about her

investigations regarding the WSC tank painting project. When asked if she could determine whether the project costs outweighed the benefits, the witness said they did, as the project’s net worth value was zero.

Mr Donaldson is on trial alongside Adrian Gibson, the Long Island MP, Joan Knowles, Peaches Farquharson, and Jerome Missick.

Mr Gibson faces charges related to his tenure as WSC executive chairman involving his alleged failure to declare his interest in contracts awarded by the WSC.

The defence team includes Mr Damian Gomez KC, Mr Murrio Ducille KC, Ian Cargill, Bryan Bastian, Ryan Eve, and Raphael Moxey. Meanwhile, the Crown’s legal team comprises Ms Frazier, Karine MacVean, and others.

WINNERS include, clockwise from top left, Crystal Brice, Charlene Carey, Randell McDonald, Eboney Wright and Ashton Woodside.

BROTHERS Philip McCarron Christie, 24, Philip D’Caprio Christie, 23, and D’Angelo Christie, 20, were killed in a collision shortly after 2am on Monday.

The Tribune Limited

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LEON E. H. DUPUCH

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

Contributing Editor 1972-1991

RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.

Publisher/Editor 1972-

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Feeling the heat in another hottest summer

SUMMER 2024 sweltered to Earth’s hottest on record, making it even more likely that this year will end up as the warmest humanity has measured, European climate service Copernicus reported Friday.

And if this sounds familiar, that’s because the records the globe shattered were set just last year as human-caused climate change, with a temporary boost from an El Nino, keeps dialing up temperatures and extreme weather, scientists said.

The northern meteorological summer — June, July and August — averaged 16.8 degrees Celsius (62.24 degrees Fahrenheit), according to Copernicus. That’s 0.03 degrees Celsius (0.05 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than the old record in 2023. Copernicus records go back to 1940, but American, British and Japanese records, which start in the mid-19th century, show the last decade has been the hottest since regular measurements were taken and likely in about 120,000 years, according to some scientists.

The Augusts of both 2024 and 2023 tied for the hottest Augusts globally at 16.82 degrees Celsius (62.27 degrees Fahrenheit). July was the first time in more than a year that the world did not set a record, a tad behind 2023, but because June 2024 was so much hotter than June 2023, this summer as a whole was the hottest, Copernicus Director Carlo Buontempo said.

“What those sober numbers indicate is how the climate crisis is tightening its grip on us,” said Stefan Rahmstorf, a climate scientist at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Research, who wasn’t part of the research.

It’s a sweaty grip because with the high temperatures, the dew point — one of several ways to measure the air’s humidity — probably was at or near record high this summer for much of the world, Buontempo said.

Until last month Buontempo, like some other climate scientists, was on the fence over whether 2024 would smash the hottest year record set last year, mostly because August 2023 was so enormously hotter than average. But then this August 2024 matched 2023, making Buontempo “pretty certain” that this year will end up hottest on record.

“In order for 2024 not to become the

warmest on record, we need to see very significant landscape cooling for the remaining few months, which doesn’t look likely at this stage,” Buontempo said.

With a forecasted La Nina — a temporary natural cooling of parts of the central Pacific — the last four months of the year may no longer be record-setters like most of the past year and a half. But it’s not likely cool enough to keep 2024 from breaking the annual record, Buontempo said.

These aren’t just numbers in a record book, but weather that hurts people, climate scientists said.

“This all translates to more misery around the world as places like Phoenix start to feel like a barbecue locked on high for longer and longer stretches of the year,” said University of Michigan environment dean and climate scientist Jonathan Overpeck. The Arizona city has had more than 100 days of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) weather this year.

“With longer and more severe heat waves come more severe droughts in some places, and more intense rains and flooding in others. Climate change is becoming too obvious, and too costly, to ignore.”

Jennifer Francis, a climate scientist at the Woodwell Climate Research Center in Cape Cod, said there’s been a deluge of extreme weather of heat, floods, wildfires and high winds that are violent and dangerous.

“Like people living in a war zone with the constant thumping of bombs and clatter of guns, we are becoming deaf to what should be alarm bells and air-raid sirens,” Francis said in an email.

While a portion of last year’s record heat was driven by an El Nino — a temporary natural warming of parts of the central Pacific that alters weather worldwide — that effect is gone, and it shows the main driver is long-term humancaused climate change from the burning of coal, oil and natural gas, Buontempo said.

“It’s really not surprising that we see this, this heat wave, that we see these temperature extremes,” Buontempo said. “We are bound to see more.”

By SETH BORENSTEIN AP Science Writer

Hold to account

EDITOR, The Tribune.

EVERY five years during our election cycle, the two major political parties the (PLP) and the (FNM) would unearth the ghost of “political campaign donations”. This act of political gamesmanship is usually met with a healthy dose of skepticism and would attract widespread commentary from the Bahamian public (and rightly so). Last week, both major political parties upped the ante, when they challenged each other to publish their list of election campaign donors. Even some radio personalities got in on the act. This is a farce by both political parties, which is foisted upon the Bahamian people. It is nothing more than a public relations stunt, designed to play upon the emotions of the unsuspecting public. The Bahamian people are no fools. They are quite aware that there is no appetite or willingness on either side to release the names of campaign donors because both parties benefit from the system as it now stands. There is no law limiting the amount of contributions to any party. Perhaps the

line of thinking is “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Political campaigns cost money and anyone who gives something, expects something in return. There is no free lunch. And so the public will never know how much is donated by whom, or who receive political paybacks, or are able to influence governmental decisions or policies from their ivory towers. There are campaign contribution laws in the greatest democracy on earth-the United States of America, but there is none in the Bahamas. We know it will not happen, because it doesn’t serve the political interest of these two major parties, never mind what is printed in their manifesto or their blue print for change.

But then again, the enactment of campaign finance laws by itself might not guarantee compliance by the two main parties. As it now stands, members of parliament and senior government officials are supposed to publish their assets and liabilities annually. To this day, I believe that all members of parliament have not disclosed. The guilty persons are not held to account because the law

PICTURE OF THE DAY

An open mind

EDITOR, The Tribune.

is toothless. Most persons would privately agree that honesty, transparency, and accountability have suffered a damaging blow as it relates to politics over the years.

The Bahamian people collectively must find a way to hold their leaders accountable, which on the face of it seems like an impossibility. We seemed to have surrendered our spirit of defiance to the politicians. We seemed to have “deified” some of them, and this is a worrying trend as it relates to the body politic. And so, it appears as if this unearth ghost of “political campaign donations”, may never be fully embraced by the two major political parties. Yet, somehow it seems free to wonder aimlessly along the corridors of both the FNM’s and the PLP’s headquarters until after the next general election, when it will be put to rest and dug up again after the next five years. It’s all a political game.

ZEPHANIAH BURROWS Nassau, September 4, 2024.

NO MATTER how brilliant you are, how brilliant you think you are, or how brilliant others may think you are, someone had to teach you everything you know. Some of these teachings you now benefit from would have been direct or intentional, while many lessons learnt would have been more subtle. Nevertheless, that concept about “tabula rasa” has some basis in fact in that from our conception, birth, and early childhood, others make indelible impressions upon us and the kind of person we eventually become. Yes, some of us can push out our chest, inflate our ego, and claim all the credit for our various wealth of knowledge and accomplishments, but I contend that we are all essentially the product of what we have been taught. Teachers, teachers... everywhere. Instructional staff in whatever schools we may have attended could hardly be looked at as our only or even best teachers. Family members, neighbours, friends and even foes have all taught us invaluable lessons. All of these lessons taught to us over time have combined to help or harm us throughout our life’s journey. Teachers, teachers come in all guises. Additionally, we may also add to that list of informal teachers in our life the plethora of media exposures now bombarding us at every twist and turn. Observe, if you will, the hypnotic tranches of the multitudes of young and old people all around nowadays with their smartphones, tablets and other devices totally engrossed... with those bright screens. This modern informal

technological way of teaching appears more impressive and effective than any classroom instruction. Artificial intelligence, for sure, has more than one meaning!

Newscasts, editorials, commentaries, gossip, casual observations and such all undoubtedly tint our “objective” perceptions of right and wrong, with regard to specific incidents locally and internationally. We become the pupil of our observed ideas and paradigms, then later become teachers of these “gospel truths” with our ‘subjective’, enlightened views when we intentionally or unintentionally pass them on to others.

Teachers, teachers, why not take a moment or two to consider that the teachings we propagate/ regurgitate are not actually our own but simply hand-me-down teachings of others. Ought not our socio-economic, cultural and conformation biases be factored in our learned/ taught perspectives?

To stretch an analogy, as I am wont to do, we may consider ourselves much like duplicated rubber bands. How we stretch ourselves makes the differences in our lives. No effort on our part and we would remain unchanged. With a little tension, we may expand just a little bit. More tension applied, and our length of expansion increases proportionately. Too much tension (along with other factors) may cause some of us to snap. Teachers, teachers may influence how we stretch, but we play the

most important part in any stretching/learning/ teaching. Another notion which I now harbor is that - within reason - almost anyone can learn anything. Our lessons of life, and the many teachers who teach them are everywhere all around us every day. How each of us learn what we learn will naturally lead to the outcomes we arrive at. Whether or not we are conscious of the lessons and the learning process, the teaching and teachers are always there - including our teachings to others. On candid reflection, we can admit that the same cache of information was there for all of us in those classrooms, those many years ago. Some of us grasped more of it than others. Undoubtedly, brains and abilities were not the main variables in those scored scholastic differences. Instead, I contend that, in those bygone days, our vision; insight, and foresight made the greater differences. It seems, in retrospect, that we attended the same buffet and selected our individual take-aways based upon our personal choices. Also, based upon our collective teachers (in and out of school) up to that point, we charted the courses of our futures. One thing is certain in a critical analysis of our teachers and teachings. An open mind is the basis for learning anything. None can teach anyone who does not want to learn. Teachers, teachers, are always teaching, but the lessons of life are optional for the learning.

MB New Providence September 2, 2024.

Party spending

EDITOR, The Tribune.

SERIOUS now absolutely not interested in this childish exchange between the chair of one party etc… if he thinks anyone interested you gotta to be kidding… election time in The Bahamas is a time when those politically attracted make good money… canvassing etc etc, a very much gimme-time the candidate without cash he-she dead. You are expected to offer and pay the ‘demand of the potential supporter who

tonight at one Rally will be red all over and tomorrow Gold! It’s an expensive carnival. Say 180,000 voters… all parties spends $12,000,000.00 that is $60 plus per head. One party probably never collects as much as the other 2021 remember there was a clear injection of cash in August 21 was that the bitcoin-kid? Oh yes we acknowledge not illegal to donate any amount you like… but Editor if you do donate you want some favour. Feel sorry for Family Island candidates...could be a fund set aside to cover all Family Island candidates of course subject to audit and may not be transferred for use in Nassau. If all parties say spend $16-18m what a waste - all you are doing is perpetrating potential future corruption. Yes, constructive discussions should occur.

FUNERAL Services were held for the late Debbye Louise Ferguson, former Deputy Chief Magistrate (Northern Region), yesterday at St Agnes Anglican Church, Baillou Hill Road. Interment took

at St Agnes Cemetery. Officiating were the Rt Reverend Laish Boyd, Anglican Bishop of The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands; and the Venerable Keith Cartwright, Archdeacon, the Turks and Caicos Islands and Southern Bahamas. Judicial officers marched from St Agnes Church to the cemetery.

Photo: Kristaan Ingraham/BIS

Warrant issued as ex-officer fails to show up in court

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

AN arrest warrant was issued yesterday for former police officer

Shando King after he failed to appear in court to be served with a voluntary bill of indictment on attempted murder charges.

Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville issued the arrest order for King, 23, after his name was called in court and he failed to appear.

Neither King’s family members nor his defence attorney, Devard Francis, attended the hearing to explain his absence.

King allegedly shot at three of his fellow officers during a car chase near Bahamas Games Blvd in July.

It is suspected that King absconded while on Supreme Court bail for four counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, two counts of possession of an unlicenced firearm, and three counts of possession of ammunition. King was dismissed from the police force in July before being arraigned.

King, along with accomplices, allegedly shot and injured 23-year-old Tavarus Paul as he was walking near Exuma Street and Cordeaux Avenue on 18 February. Later that day, King allegedly engaged in a firefight with Inspector Marcian Frazier, Constable Lenn King, and Able Seaman Decordre Glinton during a pursuit of the suspects’ white

Ferguson says ministry needed to do more over Sandals closure

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

TRADE Union Congress

president Obie Ferguson said the Ministry of Labour did not get sufficiently involved with Sandals Emerald Bay’s decision to temporarily close, which affected about 425 workers at the resort.

“That supposed to be a part of the function of the minister,” he said.

Sandals Emerald Bay has temporarily closed to undergo a $100m transformation into Beaches Exuma.

The resort, known for being all-inclusive, will be rebranded as a familyfriendly beach destination.

Deputy Prime Minister

Chester Cooper said in July that dozens of employees would be retained during the temporary closure to secure and manage the facility. He also mentioned

Honda Accord, which crashed near the Baseball Stadium on Bahamas Games Blvd. King allegedly had a black .40 Glock 23 pistol, a black 9mm pistol, 20 rounds of .40 ammunition, 24 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and an additional 12 rounds of .40 ammunition. Inspector Deon Barr served as the prosecutor.

MAN ACCUSED OF DOUBLE SHOOTING

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was remanded in custody yesterday after being accused of a double shooting on Young Street last week.

Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville arraigned Jerome Wright, 22, on charges of assault and two counts of attempted murder.

Wright allegedly assaulted Arthur Wilson in New Providence on 28 August. He and his accomplices also allegedly shot and injured a 29-year-old man

and a 27-year-old man as they stood on Young Street around 11.30pm on the same date.

The suspects reportedly fled the scene on foot.

Wright was informed that the case would proceed to the Supreme Court via a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

He will be remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until he returns to court for the assault charge on September 13. The VBI will be served on December 12. Inspector Deon Barr served as the prosecutor.

BAIL GRANTED IN LOADED GUN CASE

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A WOMAN was granted bail yesterday after she was allegedly found with a loaded gun in her car in Eleuthera earlier this week.

Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville arraigned Natasha Miller, 34, on charges of possession of an unlicenced firearm and possession of ammunition. The defendant was allegedly found with a black Smith & Wesson pistol and a quantity of ammunition in her car near Queen’s Highway in Eleuthera at 12.30pm on September 3. Miller pleaded not guilty

to the charges.

Prosecutor Inspector Deon Barr objected to bail but requested that conditions be attached if it were granted.

Nathan Smith, the defendant’s attorney, noted that his client was the mother of a four-yearold child and had no prior convictions.

Miller was granted bail of $6,000 with one or two sureties. She must sign in at the Rock Sound Police Station every Monday and Friday by 6pm.

Her trial is set to begin on April 15. Miller’s family was present in court to show support.

that efforts would be made to redeploy as many workers as possible to other Sandals properties.

He said current employees would be given top consideration for employment at Beaches Exuma. A job fair was held on August 9.

Mr Ferguson said on Wednesday: “I can take a public position and try to let the public know that the deputy prime minister is supposed to be the Member

of Parliament for the area. What are you doing agreeing with something like that?

“Those people get a salary. They buy stuff within the community. They take care of their kids, just like me and you. Shouldn’t the Ministry of Labor ––instead of getting involved with what I do –– shouldn’t they go up there and do an inspection and come back and make a report to the Bahamian public?”

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MIDDLE-AGED man was granted bail yesterday after he was allegedly found carrying a knife on Market Street earlier this week.

Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville arraigned Charles Wallace on charges of unlawfully carrying arms and vagrancy.

Wallace was reportedly found with a knife on Market Street at 2am on

September 3, unable to explain.

On the same date and location, he was also accused of vagrancy. Although Wallace appeared dazed initially, he pleaded not guilty to both charges and told the magistrate that he had a place to stay, despite not being reflected in the case file.

OBIE Ferguson pictured in July.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

THE CRUISE ship Carnival Vista arrived in Freeport Harbour yesterday. It brought 4,100 passengers and 1,450 crew members, having to divert from Grand Turk, said the ship’s Captain Francesco Fiorentino. The passengers on the six-day cruise also visited Nassau on Wednesday, which gave them the opportunity to visit two islands of The Bahamas before heading back

island. Shown from left during the presentation welcoming the ship are: Cory Winter, hotel director, Carnival Vista; Mr Chotoosingh; Captain Fiorentino; Elaine Smith, Ministry of Tourism; Anya Hanna, Ministry of Tourism; and Marco Medau, staff captain, Carnival Vista.

Photo: Andrew Miller/BIS

Tips for farmers to make it a special September

THERE’S something special about September that feels like new beginnings. The excitement of summer travel is still somewhat fresh, and the novelty of new purchases brought back has not worn off yet. Kids are eager to don new shoes and uniforms and pack schoolbags with books for an exciting new school year. Once the hustle and bustle of the first days of school have settled, it’s time to exhale and prepare for the last stretch leading up to the holidays and year end. For backyard farmers though, there is more excitement to come in this period. This is the time of year to pour through seed catalogs and plan for the upcoming vegetable production season. As a commercial farmer, I find this time of year as exciting as a student returning with the trendiest, new backpack, as I choose what vegetables I want the pleasure of growing and eating over the next eight to ten months.

If you’re new to backyard farming and don’t know where to start, here are some tips to get your garden growing and off to a flourishing start.

Location Location Location

Choosing the best location for your garden is a very important first step. Make sure the location meets as many of the following characteristics as possible: 1) It receives at least six hours of direct sunlight 2) It is close to a spigot or a water source that you can connect a hose to for ease of regular watering. 3) It is relatively close to the front door or kitchen so that you pass the garden daily or at least see the garden daily. By ensuring the chosen location meets at least two of these requirements, you’ve increased your chances of successful production.

Choose a growing system

By Dr Selima Hauber

You may choose to grow in containers or in raised beds. Container gardens are great if you don’t have a lot of space. Choose plant pots that are five-gallon size or larger, or up-cycle five-gallon buckets or large storage totes. Fill the container with a mixture of two parts potting mix, one-part native soil and a half-part of compost or composted manure. The potting mix will lighten the blend, making the containers a little easier to move around if needed.

Choosing what to grow

If you go with raised beds, you can choose from concrete blocks, wood or even old tyres to contain the soil. Back fill the beds with a mixture of two-parts native topsoil and one-part compost or composted manure to a minimum depth of ten to 12 inches. Make sure the beds are not wider than your arm’s length so that you can access the centre of the bed easily. Leave enough space in between two beds for you to walk through.

Choose vegetables that you enjoy eating to ensure that nothing goes to waste. If purchasing seeds, always opt for varieties that list heat and drought tolerance as characteristics. Resistance to pests and diseases are also very important qualities to look for. Tomatoes are a very popular vegetable amongst home gardeners, but they often succumb to a number of diseases that frustrate even the most experienced grower. Make sure your tomato varieties are resistant to several viral, bacterial and fungal diseases. Tomato yellow leaf curl virus, bacterial blight and fungal leaf spot are common diseases that can wipe out your crop. Purchasing seedlings is a great way to get a jump start on the season, as starting with seedlings saves you four to six weeks! If you choose to start your own seedlings, plant them now while you are preparing your final beds or

containers. Crops that are best started in seedling trays and transplanted are tomatoes, peppers, kale, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, eggplant and head lettuce.

Crops that are best grown by direct seeding into the soil are carrots, beets, lettuce blends, radishes, arugula, leafy greens mixes, beans, squashes, and pumpkins. Simply make a shallow furrow in the soil, only as deep as the seed is big, and cover it lightly with soil. Water gently, and daily until they germinate.

Watering the garden

Be careful not to overwater your plants by checking daily and only watering when the top inch of the soil is dry. It is best to water earlier in the day so the plants don’t experience drought stress during the hottest time of the day. It also allows time for the leaves to dry in the sun before dark. Wet leaves into the night provide the perfect environment for diseases to proliferate. If possible, apply the water to the soil directly, and not the plants’ canopy. Mulching your beds goes a long way in keeping the soil moist for longer periods of time and preventing weeds.

Weeding Be sure to weed often so

that your precious plants aren’t outcompeted. Weed by hand making sure to remove the entire plant by the roots. Don’t be tempted to used chemical herbicides as they have a negative impact on the overall health of the soil.

Pest and disease control

Pests and diseases will pose the greatest threat to your production after harsh climatic events. Check your plants often for discoloration, yellowing in distinct patterns and unusual growing habits. Check beneath the leaves for insects and remove by hand or by using the gentle force of water from a spray bottle or hose. To decrease the chances of contracting pests and diseases, plant a variety of vegetables and include herbs and flowers. The herbs and flowers will attract natural beneficial insects that prey on the pests. They may also naturally emit compounds that repel insect pests. Make sure that you keep insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, Bt, pyrethrin-based sprays and a neem-based spray in your arsenal. These natural compounds and organisms are excellent for controlling pest populations and are safe for beneficial insects and human consumption. These products are commonly found in garden

supply stores. If you have a large garden, it’s a good idea to buy a small sprayer to efficiently apply these products. With these tips under your belt, you will be well on your way to a successful vegetable production season. You can look forward to a beautiful garden that provides health-giving vegetables, and the benefits of time spent in nature with gentle exercise. Another plus is that the bounty of your garden will no doubt require you to share. Happy gardening!

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

of One Eleuthera Foundation

DR SELIMA HAUBER

What if every non-Bahamian had to do civic duty in exchange for the right to residency?

By Diane Phillips

AN

EXECUTIVE

of a leading Bahamian bank asked an interesting question during a press conference for the Bahamas Feeding Network on Monday.

“Would the government consider tax benefits for corporations that donate to non-profits?” he asked.

He looked toward the panel at the head table, a Cabinet minister and others whose names are no strangers to headlines.

“Businesses watch their bottom line,” he persisted when no one rushed in to answer.

“If there were tax benefits for donating, wouldn’t that help solve the problem that some of these organisations like the Bahamas Feeding Network face as they work so hard to meet a need so they wouldn’t have to go begging for donations while lots of businesses are making huge profits?”

The minister answered, assuring the exec that The Bahamas was familiar with countries like the US that offer tax benefits through 501C3s or other mechanisms, but while it was not on the agenda for the administration, more funding was coming for social needs.

to those, create a baseline, include ways to measure success, assess and amend as needed. Instead of finding scraps for a line item, programs like the Bahamas Feeding Network aimed at eliminating hunger would be viewed as contributing to youth development and other national advances.

Bowe’s answer made a lot of sense. But crazy as it seems, we don’t have a National Development Plan and tens of thousands of people go without enough food every day.

Others offered different answers, all of which were sincere, but only one of which was so provocative as to start a real conversation.

First, before we get to that, I want to share Fidelity CEO Gowon Bowe’s reply as there’s a good reason his name seems to appear in the headlines as often as the PM’s when he doesn’t even hold a political office.

Bowe, seated at the head table of the press conference announcing the Bahamas Feeding Network’s largest fund-raiser of the year, the third annual Fidelity Tee-off for Hunger Golf Tournament, said the question demonstrated clearly why the National Development Plan was so important.

The plan, he said. would establish key pillars and goals, prioritise funding for programs directly linked

A plan is not going to fill empty bellies tomorrow or next month though the country would certainly be better off if we had a plan. Let’s be real, we don’t leave home in the morning without a plan for the day, yet The Bahamas starts off every day and every year without a plan for the longterm future. Not to disparage the Budget or all the work that goes into creating it each year, the long days and sleepless nights of those trying to wring the last dollar out of every stone to meet needs, but the closest thing we have to a national plan is that Budget, a document laden with numbers and absent of long-term goals.

The problem with a budget instead of a plan is that the budget addresses expenditures, not goals, and the vast majority of expenditures goes to salaries and other fixed costs over which the administration has no control much as they might wish.

A budget without a plan is like a boat without a rudder, yet we manage to steer that vessel every year with the equivalent of oars hoping we eventually reach our destination.

SURPRISING,

REVIVING THE PROPOSAL BY A MOST SURPRISING SOURCE

needs as basic as feeding came from Mario Carey. Let everyone who benefits from The Bahamas contribute to creating a better Bahamas, he said.

That includes Bahamian companies, individuals, students who graduate and can contribute to other students’ education and yes, non-Bahamians, who want to establish permanent residency.

“We need to create a means by which everyone gives back, not just the few big companies that are always being asked to donate, but every individual, citizen, student and permanent resident who can,” said Carey.

“This must not be a government thing, but through a national foundation or other appropriately monitored vehicle with absolute transparency and accountability. We have the resources to solve our social ills. We need to find the courage and means to do so.”

Carey’s idea that permanent residents who want to spend a certain number of days in The Bahamas must be included in the all-should-help campaign might surprise some. He has handled more than $3 billion in real estate transactions, many of those sales to foreigners. Carey also believes that most of those individuals who have chosen The Bahamas as a place to call their first or second home would welcome opportunities to connect.

Carey also has a strong social conscience and is a strong proponent of nationalism. As a director of the Bahamas Feeding Network and host of the annual golf tournament, he has not hesitated to work his phone magic to raise funds among those who can afford to give.

“So many of those who purchase property enjoy all the benefits of life in The Bahamas and they can add greatly to the community through their financial resources and their expertise,” says Carey. “As it is now, most of them don’t really feel a strong connection to the country and this would change that.”

Carey has a valid point. The Lyford Cay Foundations, American and Canadian, understood this principle and corrected it more than half a century ago, Residents of that community, many who receive tax benefits, others who do not, have donated more than $80m toward

education of Bahamians. They have made a huge difference in the development of The Bahamas. Imagine if we could spread that model and tap into resources to date untouched. Just imagine. Thousands

of individuals with resources are within our reach in Nassau, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands. They may live in condos and gated communities or on private islands beyond our reach, but the

key to their doors is within reach. It is in our hands. And in the end, we may not only wipe out hunger and other ills that stunt our growth as a nation, we may just find the key to the hearts of strangers.

GOWON Bowe speaking on the imprtance of corporate donations to programmes such as the Bahamas Feeding Network.

Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr

MARIO A CAREY

AGRICULTURAL

AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (MULTIPURPOSE) COOPERATIVE SOCIETY

AGENDEVCO is proud to announce that second place winner of the STEM Day Quiz Bowl, Malia Maycock (CV Bethel Senior High School), has successfully completed her summer 2024 internship with BRON (the prize sponsor). During her internship, Malia had the opportunity to work under the supervision of Erin Cash-Povey, project manager - IDB Lab Project: CultivateU, gaining firsthand experience and deepening her knowledge in the environmental field. Throughout the summer, Malia worked closely with BRON’s team. “Ms CashPovey was instrumental in expanding my knowledge of the environmental eld. Her guidance and teachings have been invaluable in shaping my understanding and passion for this area,” said Malia.

FIRST BAHAMAS BRANCH OF TOASTMASTERS CLUB 1600

The First Bahamas Branch of Toastmasters Club 1600 successfully hosted its 13th Annual Neil Percentie Back to School Jamboree on August 24, honouring the late Neil Percentie while giving back to the Union Village community.

Neil Percentie, a dedicated toastmaster of Club 1600, was remembered for his passion for public speaking and community service. The annual jamboree provided vital school supplies and resources to local children as they prepared for the school year.

Quinton Percentie, Neil’s brother, played a pivotal role in organisation and continuity for the event. “It was an honour to continue my brother’s legacy,” he said.

The jamboree featured games, motivational talks, pony rides, haircuts/hair braiding and free backpacks lled with school supplies. The club welcomed contributions from community and club members as well as local businesses such as Island Games, Bank of the Bahamas, Forbes Fresh Farms, Rotaract Club of East Nassau, Limeade Bahamas, Rotary Club of Nassau Sunrise, Coco Palm Bakery and numerous individual donations.

Camron Reckley, the president of the branch, said: “This event was about instilling con dence and giving support to our kids,

JOIN THE CLUB

OUR Clubs and Societies page is a chance for you to share your group’s activities with our readers.

To feature on our Clubs and Societies page, submit your report to clubs@tribunemedia.net, with “Clubs Page” written in the subject line. For more information about the page, contact Stephen Hunt on 826-2242.

forging a lasting legacy in their future.”

The event brought together the community to celebrate Neil’s memory and support the youth of Union Village, making a significant impact on the lives of many children and families.

HEALING COMMUNICATORS TOASTMASTERS CLUB 7178

Pamela D Rolle was selected as a recipient of a Presidential Citation by Toastmasters International, in Englewood, Colorado. The award was presented by the Toastmasters International President, 2023-2024, Distinguished Toastmaster Morag Mathieson. She made the presentation during the Hall of Fame ceremony on August 15 in front of a capacity audience of 1,500 people at the 93rd International Convention held at the Anaheim Marriott, southern California, US, from August 14-17. The citation is the organisation’s highest honour that is given to a member.

“This coveted award recognises your outstanding achievements in representing the objectives and ideals of Toastmasters International as established by its founder Ralph C Smedley

of the

learned how to lead and inspire a team, as well as how to plan and conduct effective meetings,” she said.

when he started it 100 years ago. You are receiving it because of your exemplary standards of leadership at various levels of the organisation, which has benefitted its members and positively impacted its growth in your home district and globally,” said Mrs Mathieson.

Rolle was one of 17 recipients selected in this year’s class of honorees, from among 270,000 members from 14 regions.

A member of Healing Communicators Toastmasters Club 7178 in Nassau since October 2000, Rolle has held numerous club leadership positions and served as club president for 2005-2006 and earned the District 47 Club of the Year award. That same year, her club named her “Toastmaster of the Year”.

The leadership positions she has held in District 47, which covers South-East Florida and The Bahamas include Area Governor and Division Governor, Lt Governor Marketing (LGM), Lt Governor Education & Training (L-GET), and District Governor for 2011-2012. She earned the organisation’s highest communication and leadership designation, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) in July 2008 and a second time in September 2009.

As LGM and L-GET, she was awarded the Excellence in Marketing and Excellence in Education awards respectively.

“The communication and leadership skills I’ve developed through my training in Toastmasters have been transferrable to my professional life. Additionally, the mentoring and support provided in my home club, Healing Communicators, have contributed significantly to my success both professionally, and in Toastmasters. This is where I

To her legacy, as District 47 Governor, 2011-2012, Rolle led in the drafting and implementation of a strategic plan to realign District 47, resulting in the seamless formation of a new District in South-West Florida, District 48. Additionally, under her leadership a second Division was formed in The Bahamas, Division F. This created increased opportunities for Bahamian Toastmasters to hold District leader positions. Last year, District 47 hosted the August 2023 International Convention, held in The Bahamas at the Grand Hyatt, Baha Mar Resort. Rolle along with a fellow Bahamian Toastmaster served as the co-hosts of the convention. They were both featured on the cover of the July 2023 edition of The Toastmaster Magazine, a first for any Bahamian Toastmaster. Professionally, Rolle is a senior vice president and a trust and estate practitioner at a global financial institution in Nassau, Bahamas. She holds a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems and a master’s degree in business administration and the Trust & Estate Practitioners (TEP) designation. She is a member of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP) in London, England. She was initiated into the Gamma Xi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated in Spring, 1993. She is also a board member and Praise and Worship Leader at her church, Glad Tidings Tabernacle, Assemblies of God.

Toastmaster Chanel Hamilton, Healing Communicators’ club president, highlighted the significance of Rolle’s achievement by saying: “Distinguished Toastmaster Rolle is a trailblazer among local Toastmasters. Not only has she contributed significantly to the success of our club, and our district at large, but she has now been recognised globally by our organisation for the impact she has made and the many lives she has touched through her extraordinary servant leadership. On behalf of our members, I am pleased to extend congratulations!” Healing Communicators Toastmasters Club 7178 meets every Tuesday at 6pm at the Cancer Society of The Bahamas, East Terrace Centerville and via Zoom (402 732 852). More information on how to become a member is on the club’s website at www.7178.toastmastersclubs.org and on its social media platforms, Healing Communicators on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

ROTARY CLUB OF SOUTH EAST

NASSAU

During the month of August, the Rotary Club of South East Nassau held a books and brushes community service project at Columbus Primary School to refurbish their library. Rotarians, members of the Rotaract Club of South East Nassau Centennial, family members, friends and grade six graduate student and Rotary Early Act member Allan Nairn also assisted.

The library’s new mural was created and donated by award-winning visual artist, Allan Wallace. On August 24, Minister of Education Glenys Hanna-Martin and MP Jojo Campbell made a quick visit to admire that work that was taking place.

• The club in partnership with the Insurance Company of The Bahamas (ICB) presented a six-year scholarship to Allan Nairn, a former Columbus Primary School student who was an active participant in their Rotary Early Act Rotary programme. Nairn recently started his junior high class at St Anne’s High School and is on his way to a successful year, having earned mostly “As” on this last report card. He has also assisted the RCSEN with their books and brushes community service project including the annual Smiley Bastian Steak Out.

The Roger Kelty Education Scholarship was established in honour of the late Rotarian who passed away on December 30, 2021, as a tribute to his service to education in The Bahamas and his dedication to Rotary and his club since joining in 1977, one year after the club’s chartering. He was president from 1982-1983 and also served as an assistant governor in the 90s. Kelty was an exemplary educator and strong advocate for education and literacy, and devoted his life to the ideals of Rotary.

When Allan Nairn received the news that he had been awarded the RCSEN’s Roger Kelty Education Scholarship, he said: “I was shocked for the first few minutes, but once reality settled in, I became excited and grateful. Receiving this scholarship is more than just receiving money. It symbolises that

there are people who see my potential and who also believe in me. This scholarship impacts my whole family, especially my two younger siblings who are looking up to me.” This scholarship affords this youth the opportunity to attend St Anne’s High School, and will cover a wide range of educational expenses, including tuition, textbooks, school uniform assistance, and back-to-school supplies. A Rotarian has been appointed to mentor the youth during his high school journey. Gifts presented to him included a brandnew computer and printer, sponsored by JS Johnson Insurance Company. Past president Rema Martin, also the general manager of the Insurance Company of The Bahamas was on hand to witness the scholarship presentation and was happy to see another youth excelling.

TOP LADIES OF DISTINCTION INC NASSAU CHAPTER

Top Ladies of Distinction Inc Nassau Chapter held a back to school event at Moss Town Primary schools and George Town Primary school. More than 250 school bags and lunch boxes and water bottles were given to children.

WOMEN’S CORONA SOCIETY

The Women’s Corona Society in The Bahamas is active and encourages new members to join.

The society is voluntary, inter-racial, non-political and open to women of all ages and nationalities. It aims to promote friendship and understanding between women of all nations. Coffee mornings, featuring a variety of speakers, lunches, social groups and sporting activities are offered at minimal cost to members. At present, our members are involved in bridge, Mahjong, croquet and book club. We hold at least two fundraising luncheons each year with the money raised assisting local charities, the funds being distributed at the end of each year. We also have a fund in place to help the community in times of national disasters. Following a break in the summer, we are gearing up for our September coffee morning. If you would like to learn more about Women’s Corona, contact Linda at lindahayton@gmail. com, Angela at angelamallaig@icloud.com, Carolyn at Carolyn.w.bahamas@ gmail.com or Ella at bellabreeze51@gmail.com.

RECIPIENT Allan Nairn of the Roger Kelty Scholarship holds his certificate and, below, is surrounded by family members, sponsors and Rotarians at the August 7 Rotary club meeting.

TOP Ladies of Distinction Inc Nassau Chapter provided school bags and more to children in Moss Town and George Town.

MEMBERS of rhe Rotary Club of South East Nassau volunteer their time to renew the Columbus Primary School Library on August 24. Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

MEMBERS

Women’s Corona Society at their spring lunch.

MALIA Maycock (CV Bethel Senior High School), completed a summer 2024 internship with BRON.

MORAG MATHIESON, left, Toastmasters’ 2023-2024 International President, with Pamela D Rolle, DTM Presidential Citation recipient.

SPORTS

SECTION E FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2024

Bringing the Heat

By TENAJH SWEETING

The Miami Heat basketball organisation is returning to The Bahamas for the fourth time in franchise history to host their training camp from October 1-5 at the Baha Mar resort. The official announcement was made yesterday and it will mark the second time in three years that the franchise has opted to carry out their training at the venue.

Upon their arrival, the team will engage in two-aday practice sessions from

Miami Heat training camp returns to Baha Mar in October

Tuesday through Friday. The training camp will then wrap up with a practice session on Saturday that will be open to invited guests before making their return to Miami for preseason play.

Graeme Davis, president of Baha Mar, expressed his excitement about having the Miami Heat team return to the resort in preparation for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season.

Crimestoppers, Cybots

By TENAJH SWEETING

Sports Reporter

THE Bain and Grants

Town Cybots along with the Police Crimestoppers were the final two teams standing in last year’s Bahamas Government Departmental Association (BGDBA) playoffs and now both teams have begun their journey back to potentially the championship round.

The Cybots, the defending champions, got their BGDBA postseason campaign started with a 78-60 victory over the Airport Authority Avengers on Wednesday night at the DW Davis Gymnasium.

The Crimestoppers, last year’s runners-up, knocked off the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture Panthers 69-60 to prevail 1-0 in the best-of-three playoff series.

Cybots vs Avengers

The Cybots came into the 2024 BGDBA playoffs sporting the second best record in the league and with strong championship aspirations.

The reigning champions simply outwilled the

Avengers with efficient offensive output and stingy defence. The team shot 45.8 per cent from the field and 39 per cent from deep, while holding the Avengers to 29.3 per cent from the field and 25.8 per cent from deep.

Keithan Gray shouldered the load for the Cybots with a team-high 13 points, 10 boards and 3 steals. His teammate Ernest Saunders scored 11 points and picked up 5 dimes and steals apiece.

The ball game was close in the first half with both teams exchanging the lead on multiple occassions.

The Avengers would take the first quarter 21-17 to go into the second quarter with a slight edge. Despite trailing early on, the Cybots kept their composure and overtook the Avengers 25-23 off a layup made by Gray at the 6:27 mark. They took command of the game and managed to outscore the Avengers 25-15 for a 42-36 advantage going into the halftime break.

The Cybots ran the score up to 10 (46-36) in the third quarter and continued to pile on the offence. They

THE SPORTS CALENDAR

“We are thrilled to welcome the Miami Heat back to Baha Mar as they gear up for an exciting 2024-25 NBA season,” he said.

“As the leading luxury resort in The Bahamas, we look forward to providing an exceptional training camp experience that exceeds expectations.”

The Miami Heat’s first training camp in The Bahamas took place in 2013 at the Atlantis resort

before the 2013-14 NBA season. The team returned to the sporting paradise in 2016 prior to the 201617 season and carried out their training camp at the same venue. Their third trip to The Bahamas was in 2022, when they first conducted the training camp at the Baha Mar resort.

The Heat closed out the NBA postseason with an early playoff exit courtesy of NBA champion

Boston Celtics in the opening round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. They will look to fine tune their play ahead of the 2024-25 NBA regular season which begins Wednesday, October 23 against the Orlando Magic at the Kaseya Centre.

Last month, the Philadelphia 76ers announced their plans to host training camp at the Atlantis resort from October 1-5.

went up by as much as 16 during this period and the score was 56-48 ahead of the final period of play.

The 2023 champions closed out the fourth quarter on an 11-2 run to put

BODYBUILDING

NOVICE SHOW THE Bahamas Bodybuilding

Wellness and Fitness Federation is scheduled to hold its Novice and National Bodybuilding Competition at the University of the Bahamas on Saturday, September 7. Competition will be held for men and women in fitness, classic, physique, figure, bikini, wellness and bodybuilding.

Tickets are priced at $30 for general admission and $40 for VIP and can be purchased from any of the bodybuilding gymnasiums. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $35 general admission and $45 for VIP.

TRACK RED-LINE CROSS COUNTRY

IN preparation for the off-season training, the Red-Line Athletics

Track Club is scheduled to hold its inaugural Cross Country & Fitness Run on Saturday, September 14, at the St Augustine’s College Campus. The categories for the male and female runners are under-9, under11, under-13, under-15, under-17, under-20, under-30, under-40, under50 and over-50. The male and female walkers will compete in the under20, under-30, under-40, under-50 and over-50 categories. The course length will be one-mile over two hills, a staircase, road and grass surfaces that will feel like two miles. Trophies will be distributed to the first three all age groups and divisions for both the walkers and the runners. The registration fee is $20 per athlete

SEE PAGE 14

the lid on game one of the series.

Anthon Williams had a game-high 16 points, six rebounds, four assists and steals in the game one loss for the Avengers.

Crimestoppers vs Panthers

The Crimestoppers and Panthers are certainly familiar foes. The Police

THE Ministry of Health & Wellness on Wednesday September 4 celebrated the outstanding achievements of deputy permanent secretary Timothy Munnings at the 2024 World Masters Track and Field Championships held last month in Gothenburg, Sweden. Munnings’ remarkable performance secured him a gold medal in the 400 metres and a bronze medal in the 200m, showcasing to Bahamians and the international community his passion for athletics and his dedication to health and wellness.

The celebrations began on Munnings’ return to work on Monday with whistles and music as he was welcomed back on a red carpet experience from the door to the elevator at the Ministry of Works. It ended on Wednesday with a special ceremony and luncheon attended by Minister Dr Michael Darville and other executives. Dr. Darville expressed his admiration stating:

“We at the Ministry are very proud of what DPS Munnings has accomplished on the world stage and his commitment to nation building over the years,” Dr Darville said. “This victory is not only a personal triumph for him but also a significant win for the Ministry of Health & Wellness.

“His success highlights the importance of physical fitness, a healthy lifestyle and how these elements contribute to enhancing overall health and wellbeing at any age.”

Reflecting on his journey, Munnings said he was pleased with his effort.

“It has been an incredible experience preparing for and competing at the World

AS the school year kicks off, many student athletes are balancing the demands of sports practice, academics, and social life — often on a tight budget. While it might be tempting to rely on quick, cheap meals, good nutrition is crucial for athletic performance, recovery, and overall health.

But how can you maintain a balanced diet without spending a fortune?

Let’s break down some practical ways to fuel your body efficiently, even on a student budget. The Basics: Understanding Your Nutritional Needs For

Look for lean meats, beans, lentils, eggs, and dairy products. energy and hormone production. Healthy fats come

from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. A balanced diet for a student athlete should include a variety of these macronu-

Crimestoppers and Cybots lead BGDBA playoff series 1-0

PAGE 11

Crimestoppers ended the MOYSC Panthers season early in last year’s playoffs and are looking to repeat that feat this time around.

Kirklyn Farrington and Cameron Chery poured in 12 points apiece for the winners. Farrington turned in 12 points, four rebounds and two steals while shooting 5-for-10 in the game. Chery ended the night with 12 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Meanwhile, Roosevelt Whylly had it going for the Panthers with a game-high 22 points, 16 rebounds and three steals but it wasn’t enough to stop the Crimestoppers. The Police Crimestoppers got off to a scorching hot start in game one. They steamrolled the Panthers in the opening period to gain a 26-10 edge at the end of the first. Whylly cashed in on two freebies at the freethrow line and

shaved the Crimestoppers lead down to eight (38-30) with less than two minutes to go before halftime. Shortly after, Adam Johnson of the Crimestoppers made two free throws of his own at the charity stripe to extend the score to 40-30 at the intermission. The game’s intensity increased in the second half as the Panthers pounced on the Crimestoppers and levelled the score at 47.

Whylly then threw down a crowd-pleasing dunk to give the Panthers control of the game. His team were ahead 51-49 to complete the third period.

Basketball is surely a game of runs. The Crimestoppers bounced back in the final period, outscoring the Panthers 20-9 en route to the game one victory.

The BGDBA Playoffs will take over the DW Davis Gymnasium this weekend.

Tonight’s double header features the Bahamas Department of Corrections Challengers versus the Bamboo Shack Patrollers in game one and the Real Deal Rangers vs the Nassau Flight Services Ballers in game two.

Saturday’s action features the Panthers versus the Crimestoppers in game one and the Avengers vs the Cybots in game two.

Games start at 7:30pm both nights.

US OPEN: SABALENKA BEATS NAVARRO TO REACH HER SECOND CONSECUTIVE FINAL IN NEW YORK

By HOWARD FENDRICH AP Tennis Writer

NEW YORK (AP) —

When things suddenly got quite tight in the second set of Aryna Sabalenka’s U.S. Open semifinal, and the Arthur Ashe Stadium spectators suddenly got quite loud while supporting her American opponent, the 2023 runner-up found herself flashing back to a year ago at the same site.

“I was like, ‘OK, Aryna, you have to stay focused. Stay in your thoughts. Focus on yourself,’” Sabalenka said. “And, yeah, I was thinking a lot.” The No. 2-seeded Sabalenka moved into her second consecutive final at Flushing Meadows with a strong start and a late surge, taking the last seven points to beat Emma Navarro 6-3, 7-6 (2) last night with her usual brand of high-risk, high-reward tennis. Sabalenka, a 26-yearold from Belarus who won each of the past two Australian Opens, came up a victory short of claiming the

championship in New York a year ago, when she lost to Coco Gauff in front of a rowdy partisan crowd.

This time, Sabalenka got past another American opponent, the 13th-seeded Navarro — and never let the fans play too much of a role until things got interesting down the stretch.

Knowing she would be facing a player from the U.S. in this semifinal, Sabalenka joked after her previous match she would try to sway them to her side by buying booze, saying, “ Drinks on me tonight? “

Navarro did not fold in the second set, despite trailing for much of it, and as the noise around her grew, she broke when Sabalenka served for the victory at 5-4. But in the tiebreaker that followed, Sabalenka took over after Navarro led 2-0, grabbing every point that remained.

Sabalenka will play for the trophy on Saturday against yet another American, No. 6 Jessica Pegula, or unseeded Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic.

The Pegula-Muchova semifinal began later last night under the Ashe lights on a cool evening with only the slightest breeze.

For Muchova, it was her fourth appearance in the final four at a Grand Slam tournament, including runs to that stage in New York and to the final of the French Open last year.

Pegula had been 0-6 in Grand Slam quarterfinals until eliminating No. 1 Iga Swiatek, a five-time major champion, in straight sets

Wednesday night. “I’m ready to face whoever,” Sabalenka said.

“Lesson from last year learned. I really hope I’m going to do a little bit better than I did last year.”

Navarro, who defeated Gauff in the fourth round, is a 23-year-old who was born in New York, grew up in South Carolina and won an NCAA singles title for the University of Virginia in 2021. This was her debut in a Slam semifinal and, while she displayed the skills and steadiness that carried her there, Navarro was not able to keep up with Sabalenka, who was playing in that round at a major for the ninth time.

If Sabalenka is as demonstrative as can be, often holding a fist aloft and screaming after a big point or rolling her eyes after a

miss, Navarro is far more subdued, rarely, if ever, betraying a hint of emotion, whether positive or negative.

Even when she broke to 5-all late, there wasn’t really any way to tell what had just happened by looking at Navarro. The sounds from the seats were an indication.

But soon, thousands of ticket-holders were saluting Sabalenka for her latest show of mastery on a hard court.

“Well, guys, now you are cheering for me,” she with a laugh during her on-court interview. “Well, it’s a bit too late.”

From 2-all in the opening set, Sabalenka reeled off three games in a row to wrest control of that set, repeatedly hitting shots out of Navarro’s reach, often accompanied by a yell.

By the end of the contest, Sabalenka had produced 34 winners and 34 unforced errors — and in a fitting bit of symmetry, Navarro had 13 winners and 13 unforced errors. Sabalenka showed she is not simply a swing-fromthe-heels power player, even if that is the foundation of her game. She delivered one optimally timed return winner to help break for a 4-2 lead early. She offered up two terrifically delicate drop shots to earn points later in that set. When Navarro failed to get a return in play off a 100 mph serve, Sabalenka was halfway to the win. A break to go up 3-2 seemingly put Sabalenka in charge of the second set, too, but Navarro made a stand. In the end, it wasn’t enough.

Photos by Nikia Charlton

ARYNA SABALENKA, of Belarus, reacts after scoring a point against Emma Navarro, of the United States, during the women’s singles semifinals of the U.S. Open tennis championships yesterday. (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson)

ON THE REPLAY: The Bain & Grants Town Cybots, the defending champions, got their Bahamas Government Departmental Basketball Association postseason campaign started with a 78-60 victory over the Airport Authority Avengers at the DW Davis Gymnasium on Wednesday night.

Versatile pro athlete Charisma Taylor celebrates birthday

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor

By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer

Scores 15 points with five blocks and eight rebounds

NEW York Liberty forward Jonquel Jones (35) in action against the Seattle Storm during the second half of a WNBA basketball game on Friday, August 30, 2024, in Seattle. The Liberty won 98-85.

(AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

OLYMPIAN Charisma Taylor with one of her grandmothers Marie Taylorn (top left), her younger brother Zion (top right) , and father Dewey Taylor (kissing her above)

Photos: Kermit Taylor/ Bahamas Athletics

Operators rout Black Scorpions 14-2, Mighty Mitts blank Renegades 19-0

THE R&M Opera-

tors and the Chances Mighty Mitts moved into the driver’s seats of their respective ladies and men’s best-of-five playoff series in the New Providence Softball Association.

Last night at the Bankers Field in the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex, the Operators routed the Black Scorpions 14-2, while the Mighty Mitts blanked

Renegades 19-0. Here’s a summary of the two games played: Mighty Mitts 19, Renegades 0: Alcott Forbes was firing on all cylinders as he pitched a perfect game in their abbreviated threeinning affair in the men’s feature contest.

Offensively, Norman Bastian went 2-for-3 with five runs batted in and a run scored, Junel Bain was

a perfect 2-for-2 with two RBI and three runs scored, Sherman Ferguson was 1-for-2 with two RBI and two runs scored and Martin Burrows Jr was 1-for-1 with a double, two RBI and two runs scored.

The Mighty Mitts scored 13 runs on seven hits in the first inning and added six more runs on three hits in the second as Jahiem Davis got tagged with the loss.

Operators 14, Scorpions 2: Melinda Bastian was a perfect 2-for-2 with a pair of RBI and as many runs scored and Brendia Ferguson was 2-for-3 with a home run, two RBI and two runs scored.

Diva Burrows was the winning pitcher and Deante Colebrooke suffered the loss in the four-inning abbreviated affair in the ladies’ opener.

Zhizell McKenzie went 2-for-2 with an RBI and Natasha Paul was 1-for-1 with a RBI in a losing effort. R&B exploded for 10 runs on six hits in the second after they scored a run on two hits in the first. They added three more runs on two hits in the third. The Black Scorpions got a run in both the second and fourth.

BAHAMAS BOWL TO RETURN ON JANUARY 4

THE Bahamas Bowl, which was called off last year because of the renovations to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium, will be returning to the Bahamas on January 4, 2025.

TIMOTHY MUNNINGS RECOGNISED

FOR DOUBLE MEDAL AT WORLD MASTERS TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS

FROM PAGE 11

Masters. I am deeply grateful for the support from my family, colleagues, and the sports community,” Munnings said.

“This journey has strengthened my belief in the value of staying active and maintaining a balanced life. I hope that my achievements at age 58 motivate others to pursue their own health and fitness goals and passions.”

The Ministry of Health & Wellness applauds Munnings’ noteworthy achievements and his representation of The Bahamas on the international stage.

In a lead up to the Bahamas Bowl, the spotlight will be placed on the college football players and teams from Conference USA and the Mid-American Conference. This will provide insight into the programmes that are vying for a spot in the return of the Bahamas Bowl.

C-USA Conference USA football opened the season with a 5-5 record, including 4-1 by teams playing at home. Liberty, our Bahamas Bowl Team of the Week for C-USA, scored the most points in a 41-24 win over Campbell.

Sam Houston State quarterback Hunter Watson threw for 229 yards and two touchdowns as the Bearkats defeated Rice, 34-14, to open the season.

SHSU is in just its second season in Conference USA and has never appeared in the Bahamas Bowl.

MAC MAC football teams opened the season going 6-5, including two competitive losses on the road to Big Ten teams. Central Michigan was the highest scoring team, winning 66-10 at home vs. Central Connecticut, earning our Bahamas Bowl MAC Team of the Week honour.

Central Michigan quarterback Joe Labas threw for 342 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Chippewas to a 66-10 win over Central Connecticut.

CMU was in the inaugural Bahamas Bowl, losing a thrilling 49-48 contest to Western Kentucky on December 24, 2014.

Bowling Green running back Terion Stewart gained 161 yards with three touchdowns on just 14 carries as the Falcons routed Fordham 41-17 in the season opener.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo.

(AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for 291 yards and a touchdown, and the Kansas City defence kept Lamar Jackson and the Ravens out of the end zone on three consecutive plays in the closing seconds, allowing the Chiefs to begin their pursuit of a third straight Super Bowl title with a 27-20 victory over Baltimore last night. The game ended with a video review after Jackson appeared to connect with Isaiah Likely in the back of the end zone with no time remaining for a touchdown. The video clearly showed Likely’s toe landing on the endline, though, and the call was overturned, sending the Chiefs streaming off the bench in celebration.

Xavier Worthy had touchdowns rushing and receiving, and Isiah

Pacheco also had a TD run for the Chiefs, helping them not only win a rematch of last season’s AFC title game but beat the Ravens for the fifth time in their last six meetings.

That lopsided ledger has been especially frustrating for Jackson, who has called

and interested persons can register online at redlineathletics242@gmail.com UNIVERSITY OF THE BAHAMAS CROSS COUNTRY

THE University of the Bahamas is scheduled to hold its annual Cross Country 2K24 Invitational on Saturday, September 28, starting at 7 am at the Thomas A. Robinson Stadium.

Interested persons can contact coach Ednal Rolle at 424-6469 or ednql. roolle@ub.edu.bs for more details.

SOFTBALL

EXUMA HOMECOMING

Kansas City their Ravens’ “kryptonite.” He was sublime on Thursday night, throwing for 273 yards and a touchdown while adding 122 yards on the ground.

But a video review of the final play of the game left him to rue another missed chance to finally upstage Mahomes and Co.

THE Williams Town Exuma Homecoming Association is scheduled to hold a softball game and road race over the weekend of October 11-14.

The softball game will be played on October 11-12 between the Corner Boyz from the New Providence Oldtimers Softball Association and the local All-Star team from Exuma.

Then on October 12, a five-mile road race will be staged, starting at 7am from the Culture Centre in Forbes Hill to the public school in Williams Town.

Competitors in the under9, under-11 and under-13 divisions will compete in a 2 1/2 mile run, while those in the under-15, under-17, under-20 and open divisions will compete in a five-mile run.

TRACK

FUN RUN/WALK

RACE

THE Roots Junkanoo Group is scheduled to hold its Fun Run/Walk Race under the theme “Let’s Do

This Together,” on Saturday, October 12. The event will start promptly at 6:30am at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium and will be sponsored by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and the National Sports Authority. The registration fee is $25 per athlete. Categories include under male and female under-15, under-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60 and 61-and-over. BASKETBALL/ CYCLING/ TRACK

BBSF MEETING THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation is scheduled to hold a joint meeting at 5pm on Saturday at the Baptist College, Jean Street for all churches interested in participating in the upcoming basketball, cycling and track and field events. The basketball tournament is scheduled for Friday to Saturday, September 26-27 at the CI Gibson Gymnasium and the cycling event will be held on

Saturday, October 6. And the track meet, to be held in memory of the late Renee “Sunshine” Curry-Davis, will take place in November at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium. During the meeting on Saturday, representatives from the churches will be provided with the full details of all three of the events being planned by the federation as they conclude their initial season since changing the name from the Baptist Sports Council.

ALL CARIBBEAN WRESTLING FIGHT FOR PARADISE THE All Caribbean Wrestling (ACW) is scheduled to hold its Fight for Paradise Show on Saturday, October 19, at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium. Doors open at 1pm. Wrestlers from throughout the Caribbean and the United States of America will be participating. For ticket information, persons can contact FightForParadise.eventbrite.com

WORLD Masters double medallist Timothy Munnings shares his cake with daughter Alecia and brother Leslie.

WORLD Masters double medallist Timothy Munnings displaying his men’s 400m gold medal and 200m brronze medal.

RAVENS kicker Justin Tucker, right, makes a 32-yard field goal during the second half against the Chiefs last night.

(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)