10222024 NEWS AND SPORT

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‘MP RAPED ME AND SAID HE’D SHOOT ME’

North Abaco MP accused of sex assault and threats of harm

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A WOMAN took the stand yesterday and described in detail how North Abaco MP Kirk Cornish allegedly sexually assaulted her twice, as the rape trial against him resumed. In calm but firm testimony, the complainant

recounted two separate incidents of assault, including one in which Cornish allegedly pinned her down, raped her, and spat on her face. She further claimed he threatened to “put a bullet” in her head during a violent altercation months earlier. The trial, which had been delayed after a previous jury was dismissed because

THREE POLICE ARRAIGNED ON CHARGE OF RAPING WOMAN

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

THREE police officers and one civilian were arraigned yesterday for allegedly raping an 18-yearold woman, while another officer faced charges of abetting the crime. Assistant Commissioner of Police Leamond

Superintendent

area as the government’s ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ strategy begins

to criminal activity. See PAGE TWO for story.

Deleveaux told The Tribune that the four officers have been interdicted from the Royal Bahamas Police Force. Earin Cash, 30, Jimmy Thurston, 32, Alvin Glinton, 31, and civilian Jeff Joseph, 28, allegedly had sexual intercourse with the teenager without her

Oscar weakens to tropical storm - but residents urged to prepare

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

HURRICANE Oscar has weakened into a tropical storm, but residents in central and south-eastern

Bahamas are urged to prepare as the storm is expected to make landfall today.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for the southeastern islands, including Crooked Island, Acklins,

‘Independent probe needed

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

Long Cay, Ragged Island, Mayaguana, and Inagua. Portions of the central Bahamas, such as Long Island, Rum Cay, and San Salvador, are also under

In IzmIrl I an case’

FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said a New York judge’s ruling that China Construction America (CCA) sought to “curry favour” with Christie administration officials during its dispute with Sarkis Izmirlian “may only be the tip of the iceberg” as he called for an

independent investigation into the allegations. His comments mirrored those of FNM leader Michael Pintard, who also called for an independent commission of inquiry into the Christie administration’s handling of the feud. Their remarks followed a ruling by Justice Andrew Borrok on Friday,

nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

ACTIVISTS yesterday voiced fears that a $985m south Abaco resort project will negatively impact “essential bonefish habitats” and undermine a

mies

FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis

ASSISTANT

McKell Pinder, who leads the Englerston Urban Renewal initiative, on the scene during a walkabout of the

efforts to help residents feel safer by clearing hazardous properties linked

Photo: Nikia Charlton

Englerston residents express scepticism over PM’s ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ crime plan

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

THE “Clear, Hold, Build” crime strategy

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis revealed on Friday is largely similar to the plan he disclosed at the start of the year.

Some Englerston residents and business owners expressed scepticism about the plan, as some questioned the government’s ability to bring real innovation to its strategy.

The strategy is being implemented in Englerston first because of an increase in violent crimes, including murders and armed robberies.

While the “Clear, Hold, Build” initiative is presented as a renewed effort, many elements — such as the focus on law enforcement and disruption tactics — mirror the previously disclosed approach. Repeated strategies include increased police patrols, technology like CCTV, drones, and ShotSpotter systems, and targeting stash houses and gang leaders.

Nikita Burrows, who operates a printing shop in Englerston, expressed scepticism toward the government’s crime strategies, calling the approaches reactive rather than proactive.

“I personally feel like everything has to start from the schools, opening up different counselling and things because there’s so much hurt,” she said.

Pastor DW Dorsett, a long-time stakeholder in the area, said: “I haven’t seen any police officers walking on Balfour

[Avenue] for several months. It’s possible that they passed through when I wasn’t here. Some days I leave early, and it could have been the very time police made their presence known, but I haven’t seen it.”

He welcomed police involvement, adding: “We want to be friends with the police, working hand in hand with them and the government of The Bahamas for the betterment of all.”

Assistant Superintendent McKell Pinder, who leads the Englerston Urban Renewal initiative, hailed the government’s ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ strategy during a walkabout of the area as an effort to help residents feel safer by clearing hazardous properties linked to criminal activity. Part of the plan includes engaging the community through feeding programmes, after-school mentorships, and partnerships with schools to address underlying social issues. While she acknowledged police efforts in clearing dangerous areas, Pinder emphasised the importance of community involvement and ongoing maintenance for lasting change in Englerston.

“We feed seniors every week,” she said. “We have an after-school programme at our center. We also have a mentorship programme and work closely with the schools, especially with our young people and the primary school. We are proactive in what we’re doing, and this is ongoing every day for us here in Englerston.”

HEAVY equipment clear roadsides in Englerston as part of the govt’s new crime plan.

Photos: Nikia Charlton

‘MP raped me and said he’d shoot me’

a juror was related to FNM leader Michael Pintard, has now proceeded with a new jury of eight women and one man, hearing the case before Justice Renae McKay.

Before the complainant’s testimony, Sergeant Mario Rahming testified that he collected her light blue Samsung Galaxy A23 and extracted photos from the phone, which were submitted as evidence.

While the officer acknowledged the defence attorney Tai Pinder-Mackey’s suggestion that phone cameras’ settings and lighting could alter images, he told prosecutor Timothy Bailey that the photos did not appear doctored.

The complainant testified that she had lived in Cooper’s Town, Abaco, most of her life. She said she had known Cornish for around 36 years but claimed they only began dating in 2020. She said the relationship ended in March 2023, and alleged that Cornish first physically assaulted her in November 2022.

She recounted that on the evening of January 20, 2023, while sitting in Cornish’s vehicle in Cooper’s Town, a conversation between them turned hostile.

She claimed that Cornish flew into a rage when she didn’t say what he wanted during a phone call with a friend, stabbing her in the eye with his fingers three to four times and choking her. After the attack, she claimed Cornish drove her to a fishing area and told her, “I should just take a bullet and put it through your head right now,” before eventually dropping her home.

The complainant said she took photos of herself following this incident, which were shown in court. She testified that the images displayed a bruise to her right

eye and marks on her neck from where Cornish’s nails allegedly dug into her skin.

On March 25, 2023, she claimed she attended a swearing-in ceremony for a new commissioner with Cornish. That evening, while they were staying at an Airbnb in Stapleton, she said Cornish got angry over something she said in a phone call. According to her, he grabbed a knife, held it to her throat, and pinned her down. She testified that after she asked him to stop, Cornish eventually released her but later entered the bedroom, removed her underwear, and raped her. She also alleged that Cornish spat on her face afterwards.

The complainant further testified that on April 4, 2023, she was on a phone call at her Cooper’s Town residence when Cornish knocked on her door. She said that although she was panicked, she let him in to avoid a scene. She alleged that once inside, Cornish locked the door, forced her into the bedroom, and raped her again, threatening to break her legs when she resisted. She claimed he said, “You don’t want a relationship, you want the monster. This is what you got.”

Following the alleged assaults, she reported the incidents to police in Freeport, Grand Bahama, on April 7 2023. Under questioning from Mr Bailey, she explained that she didn’t report the incidents earlier because they were dating and, after their break-up, she was afraid of Cornish’s threats.

The complainant also testified that Cornish regularly took her phone and deleted the photos she had taken after the first alleged assault, unaware they had been backed up.

Her testimony will continue today. In addition to Mrs Pinder-Mackey, Linique Murphy-Grant also represents Mr Cornish.

Three police arraigned on charge of raping woman

consent between October 5 and October 6, 2024.

Cornelius Rigby, 24, faced five counts of abetment of rape, allegedly aiding and abetting the other men in committing the offence.

Cash, who faces two

counts of rape in this case, was previously charged in January with allegedly raping and assaulting a woman in Marsh Harbour, Abaco, on March 22, 2023. Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley denied bail for Thurston, Cash, Glinton, and Joseph due to the severe nature of the charges.

Prosecutor Inspector Deon Barr initially objected to bail for Rigby, but his attorney, Ciji Smith-Curry, challenged the grounds for the objection, arguing that the

primary consideration should be Rigby’s ability to attend court dates. She noted that this was his first charge and highlighted his role as a father to a two-year-old son and his community ties, including

the Vision of Hope Cathedral membership. The judge ultimately granted Rigby bail of $9,500, ordering him to wear an electronic monitoring device, sign in every Tuesday and Wednesday

at the nearest police station, and refrain from interfering with witnesses. Bryan Bastian represented Thurston, while Ian Cargill and David Cash represented Cash, Glinton, and Joseph.

NORTH Abaco MP Kirk Cornish outside court yesterday.

Photo: Pavel Bailey

Oscar weakens to tropical storm - but residents urged to prepare

warning.

Chief meteorologist Geoffrey Greene, during a press conference yesterday at the Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Authority headquarters, said Tropical Storm Oscar was forecast to move off the northern coast of Cuba yesterday afternoon and approach the southern and central Bahamas today. Mr Greene reported that Oscar would bring winds of 29mph or higher, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and battering waves to the coastlines of many islands.

“The system will move close to or over Crooked Island and Acklins based on the forecast track and will move to the northeast pretty rapidly,” Mr Greene said. “By Tuesday evening, hopefully the system will be out to the east of The Bahamas.”

Acting Prime Minister Chester Cooper urged residents in the central and

south-eastern Bahamas to stock up on water and non-perishable foods and locate nearby shelters. He warned of potential flooding in the south-eastern Bahamas.

“While the storm has weakened as it passed over Cuba’s land mass, it is expected to strengthen again after moving back over water on its way towards the south-east and central Bahamas,” Mr Cooper said. “We cannot and we must not take this storm lightly. We must stay alert. I can affirm that our teams are fully activated, and we stand ready to respond to the storm as it moves across our archipelago.”

Mr Cooper added that teams would be dispatched to assess the storm’s impact in the coming days. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force, Royal Bahamas Police Force, and the Ministry of Works and Island Affairs are also prepared to assist as needed.

Minister of State Leon Lundy, responsible for the DRM Authority, said officials have been coordinating with Family Island administrators to provide relief. The DRM Authority has met with a local food supplier to secure supplies for residents in the southern Bahamas affected by Hurricane Oscar. Water, hygiene products, dry goods, and perishable food items have been loaded for shipment by DRM teams and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.

In less than 24 hours, Oscar intensified into a Category One hurricane over the weekend and made landfall in Inagua on Sunday. Though it caused minimal damage, many families in Inagua evacuated their homes out of fear and uncertainty due to the storm’s winds and rain.

DRM Authority managing director Aaron Sargent confirmed there were no reports of deaths or injuries. However, Inagua

experienced a power outage, with teams working to restore electricity as weather conditions allow.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness also reported

the roof of the Matthew Town Clinic in Inagua was damaged, leading to flooding. Work crews have been dispatched to address the

Programme launched to help over 2,000 households without power reconnect to BPL

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune

Reporter

THE Ministry of Energy and Transport, in partnership with Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), launched a holiday reconnection programme to help over 2,000 Bahamian households without electricity settle outstanding balances and restore their power for the holidays.

During a press conference at the Office of The Prime Minister yesterday, Energy and Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis introduced the “Merry and Bright – Turn On Your Light” programme, which will run from November 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025.

The programme targets residential customers across various socio-economic backgrounds.

Mrs Coleby-Davis said:

“Merry and Bright –– Turn on Your Lights is a meaningful gesture that is meant to alleviate the hardships faced by these households as we head into the holiday season. Giving out a ham and turkey is good, but it doesn’t go very far if you don’t have the means to prepare it.”

“We want to give these families their dignity back, allowing them to enjoy this most basic need without the fear of disconnection.

While some may consider

this unfair, as BPL, over 111,000 customers must make timely payments to avoid disconnection, I must impress upon you the importance of doing what is right as we head into the holiday season.

“If the average household is four people, we have the potential to positively impact the lives of 8,000 Bahamians, many of whom are children across the Bahamas. Let me also say clearly that all customers who take advantage of Merry and Bright turn on your light holiday reconnection program must make their monthly payments.”

Tony Seymour, BPL CEO, said disconnected residents could have their electricity reconnected by paying just ten percent of their outstanding balances. She said data indicated that more than half of the 2,050 disconnected customers are from New Providence, with 200 in Eleuthera and 150 in Abaco.

“To participate in the campaign, disconnected customers should visit any of BPL business offices in New Providence or the Family Islands,” she said. “A customer service representative will meet each customer to review their outstanding balance and current situation, offering the most favourable repayment options available.”

“We anticipate that most customers will be able to pay off their balances within six months. This means they can be in good standing with BPL before the peak summer period of 2025 — clearing their previous debts.”

“Once the ten percent

down payment is made and repayment terms are settled, we expect to reconnect electricity for these customers on the same day or the following day. There may be exceptions, however, for those whose services have been disconnected for more than six months, as these

cases will require a meter inspection to ensure safety.”

Ms Seymour noted that disconnected bills ranged from $500 to thousands of dollars, but she could not specify the total outstanding amount expected to be collected.

“It’s not a matter of how

much funds we collect,” she said. “It’s a matter of providing favourable repayment terms to our customers. I’m sure our finance department will look forward to the additional receipt of funds but that’s not the objective of this.”

the southern Bahamas have reported damages, closures, or changes to operating hours. A TREE near

MINISTER of Energy and Transport JoBeth Coleby-Davis during a press conference to announce the launch of BPL’s holiday reconnection program at the Office of The Prime Minister yesterday.

Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

BPL CEO Toni Seymour speaks at the launch of BPL’s holiday reconnection

of

Prime Minister yesterday.

‘Independent probe needed in Izmirlian and CCA case’

which determined that Mr Izmirlian, Baha Mar’s original developer, had proven his fraud claim against CCA “beyond doubt”.

Justice Borrok also ruled that Baha Mar’s contractor had attempted to “curry favour” by paying $2.3m to a firm run by the son of Sir Baltron Bethel, a top adviser to former Prime Minister Perry Christie.

The payments were made between December 2014 and January 2016 — at the height of the dispute between Mr Izmirlian and CCA.

However, both Sir Baltron and his son denied that CCA influenced the former’s stance towards the dispute and its participants or his advice to the government and its actions.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Office of the Prime Minister said Attorney General Ryan Pinder had been instructed to review the judgment’s findings and that no further comment would be made on the issue.

Yesterday, Mr Pintard described the allegations as damaging to The Bahamas’ reputation as a credible place for business. He urged the Prime Minister to “rise above his instincts to protect members of the PLP” and demonstrate that The Bahamas is a country of laws where “absolutely no one is above justice”.

“There’s a consistency

whether a company tends to be a good or bad actor, it is the government’s responsibility to act as the gatekeeper, ensuring that all transactions comply with the laws of The Bahamas. from page one

in terms of their lack of transparency on very serious issues,” Mr Pintard said during a press conference. “We cited FTX. We can very well cite BPL, and the level of conflict that you continue

to see between members of the Cabinet and parliamentary caucus and political operatives and their backers –– those persons who contribute and yet end up being the beneficiaries of single source

contracts with minimal to no explanation.”

Mr Pintard stressed the need for an independent investigation, saying the opposition does not believe this administration will investigate itself and

produce impartial, transparent conclusions.

When asked if the government should reconsider its deals with CCA moving forward, Mr Pintard did not respond directly. He only said regardless of

Bahamas sees imports rise by 25% while exports fall 13%

By RASHAD ROLLE

News Editor

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas experienced a 25 percent rise in imports during the second quarter of 2024, while exports fell by 13 percent, according to newly released data from the Bahamas National Statistical Institute.

Imports surged to $1.37 billion, driven by a marked increase in machinery and transport equipment purchases, which accounted for

nearly a quarter of all imports, totalling $325m. Mineral fuels and lubricants followed closely, comprising 22 percent of imports at $299m. The uptick in imports also extended to key categories such as food and live animals, manufactured goods, and miscellaneous manufactured articles, which collectively made up 39 percent of the country’s imports, valued at $530 million. However, the report also revealed a decline in

exports, totalling $221m, down from last year’s period. Machinery and transport equipment fell by 13 percent to $90m, while manufactured goods and mineral fuels, which represent a quarter and nine percent of exports respectively, also saw declines. The drop was most pronounced in the export of animal and vegetable oils and fats, mineral fuels, and crude minerals, which plummeted by 50 percent, 37 percent, and 34 percent, respectively.

FNM leader Michael Pintard speaks to members of the media at a presser yesterday, joined by Senator Maxine Seymour (left), St Anne’s MP Adrian White (right), Senator Darren Henfield.

Photo: Annelia Nixon

BAHA MAR.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

ARAWAK Cay freight dock.

The Tribune Limited

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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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News & General Information

Palestine recognition bad choice

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Opposition’s call for commission of inquiry is the right one

FINDING unity between the current and former leader of the FNM is not always an easy task – but the Baha Mar court case ruling has both Michael Pintard and Dr Hubert Minnis singing from the same hymn sheet.

A commission of inquiry is called for, in the wake of a ruling that not only completely vindicated Sarkis Izmirlian, who won a $1.6bn ruling in his favour, but also sent reverberations through the political establishment.

In the ruling by Justice Andrew Borrok in New York on Friday, China Construction America was said to have sought to “curry favour” with officials from the administration of then Prime Minister Perry Christie.

The judge ruled that Baha Mar’s contractor paid $2.3m to a firm run by the son of Sir Baltron Bethel, then a top advisor to Mr Christie.

Both Sir Baltron and his son have denied that CCA influenced Sir Baltron’s stance during the dispute.

The ruling also found that CCA by its actions had brought about the liquidity crisis that affected Baha Mar, and even that one of CCA’s executives had admitted in front of Mr Christie that the contractor was “deliberately slowing the work” in order to force payment from Mr Izmirlian.

Money given to pay workers was diverted to buy the British Colonial in the meantime, the ruling also found.

So is this enough to rise to the standard of requiring a commission of inquiry, as both Mr Pintard and Dr Minnis are calling for?

In this space, we have called for a commission of inquiry before – for answers to what happened in Hurricane Dorian, for a resolution to the numbers of deaths in that storm, and for answers on the missing.

This has practical effects for people – a number of people are even now still awaiting death certificates following Hurricane Dorian.

That is a matter with national implications – and very personal ones.

The situation with the fraud perpetrated at Baha Mar, as the judge has ruled it to be, is also of national concern. In this case, it is a matter of national reputation.

According to the judge’s ruling, we have a developer whose project was effectively sabotaged by the contractor, who admitted as much in front of the prime minister, and who paid that prime minister’s top advisor in an apparent effort to influence him. And, until the court ruling in Mr Izmirlian’s favour, it worked.

What is to prevent it from happening again? How can any major developer feel confident in bringing a project to The Bahamas and not worry that it could happen again?

That is the question that is at the crux of whether this rises to the level of commission of inquiry.

What is absolutely clear is that the level of concern is far more than can be met by a review of the findings by the attorney general, which is the course of action presently being taken by the government. There has not been a great track record by this administration so far in giving answers to outstanding questions, or in showing the requisite urgency in dealing with issues that have raised concerns.

So it is perfectly understandable that there are calls for a commission of inquiry. To quell those calls, the government needs to put forward a credible alternative, or the demands will grow – and the faith in the current administration will diminish.

We cannot be seen as a nation for sale – we have been down that path before.

The judge’s ruling is damning – and while there may be the prospect of an appeal, there are enough questions that need to be dealt with.

IN May of this year, Free National Movement MP Adrian White raised the sensitive matter of the Progressive Liberal Party administration’s decision to formally recognise the Palestinian state. This decision came against the backdrop of the increasing number of anti-Israeli protests in universities and colleges across North America. This was in response to Israel’s decision to go after Hamas - the Palestinian terrorist organisation which launched an unprovoked attack on the Jewish people on October 7, 2023. Over 1,200 Jews were mercilessly murdered while an additional 240 were taken as hostages. The government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had to respond. Fast forward to October 2024 - one year later. Hamas has been virtually wiped out, with key leaders such as Yahya Sinwar, Wissam Khazem, Ismail Haniyeh and Rawhi Mushtaha all being killed this year by the Israeli Defence Force. Hezbollah, another Islamist terrorist group headquartered in Lebanon, is now teetering on the brink of extinction due to Israel’s aggressive multifaceted military operations. Hassan Nasrallah, who was secretary general of the organisation, was eliminated by IDF operatives in late September, after Hezbollah headquarters were bombed by the IDF in Beirut. White’s issue with the Davis administration on this matter seems to be rooted in its decision not to engage in a discussion in Parliament on the question of recognising Palestine. White rightly noted that our most important and strategic ally, the United States, does not recognise the Palestinian state.

In fact, the US government used its veto powers in the United Nations to block the Palestinians’ admittance into the organisation. Of the 19 G-20 countries, nine have gone on record in recognising Palestine; while ten haven’t. The nine G-20 countries are Saudi Arabia, Russia, South Africa, Indonesia, India, Turkey, Brazil, China and Argentina. It comes as no surprise to this writer that Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Indonesia have all recognised Palestine. South Africa is antisemitic,

LETTERS

while Indonesia, Turkey and Saudi Arabia have huge Muslim populations. Islam is intrinsically antisemitic. Its founder, the Prophet Muhammad, murdered many Jews on the Arabian peninsula after they refused to follow his newly found religion in the 7th century. I view the current Israeli/Hamas conflict as a continuation of the war Muhammad declared against the Jewish people nearly 14 centuries ago.

This can explain why the Jewish people have suffered tremendously in Muslim dominated countries.

The current conflict between the Jews and the Palestinians dates all the way back to the Balfour Declaration in November 1917, when the British pledged to establish a national home for the scattered Jewish people. This ambitious pledge was made during the final years of the Ottoman Empire, which came to an end in 1923. To reference Christian Zionist Hal Lindsey in his The Everlasting Hatred, there were no distinct group or nation known as the Palestinians during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. When the industrious Jews began migrating to the Holy Land to escape antisemitism in the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Russia, Arabs would flock to areas in and around Jerusalem in search of employment opportunities created by the Jews.

The Bahamas and its CARICOM allies seem to have been completely oblivious of the eschatological, social, cultural and religious dimensions of the Palestinian dilemma. Many Christians in The Bahamas who support the Philip Brave Davis PLP government view Israel as God’s chosen nation. To them, any policy enacted by the government which is subversive to Israel’s survival in the Middle East would invariably draw God’s wrath on those who drafted the said policy. Bahamian Bible prophecy teachers, who are influenced by American Bible prophecy experts, such as the late John Walvoord, Tim Lahaye, Hal Lindsey, Finis Dake and CI Scofield, believe that the current Israeli conflict

might lead to the Battle of Armageddon (Revelation 16:16) and the beginning of the Great Tribulation outlined by Jesus Christ in the Olivet Discourse. Additionally, the conflict between Israel and Iran, who has the backing of Russia and Vladimir Putin, is being forecasted as a prelude to the Gog and Magog War as predicted in Ezekiel 38-39. It is indeed telling that each generation since the close of the Apostolic age viewed itself as the terminal generation, to use the words of Hal Lindsey. Notwithstanding it being doctrinally unsound, Christian Zionism continues to receive wide currency among Bahamian evangelicals, particularly those from Pentecostal and Charismatic denominational and independent churches. And this despite Hal Lindsey’s failed end time speculations of a pre-tribulation rapture occurring within the generation (40 years) of those who witnessed the rebirth of national Israel in May 1948, as was pitched in his bestseller The Late Great Planet Earth. I think it is imperative that the Bahamian church reexamine its eschatology. It is important to point out that some 41 percent of Palestinians in the West Bank and 38 percent in Gaza support Hamas. Hamas is not some fringe group among Palestinians. It is very popular. The move to recognise a Palestinian state could be interpreted by Hamas militiamen as a tacit approval of their violence towards the Jewish people.

The Bahamian government desires that the Palestinian people would have their own territory, full statehood and selfdetermination as other independent nations. However, the method that Fatah, the Palestinian Liberation Organisation and Hamas have utilised to achieve these goals must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. The violent acts of these groups throughout the decades are probably why the US has been reluctant to recognise a Palestinian state. Deciding to recognise Palestine after the October 2023 genocide in Israel incentivises Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups to continue committing acts of violence.

KEVIN EVANS Nassau, October 20, 2024.

EDITOR, The Tribune

REPARATIONS… joke yes? Send bill to the African tribes in Africa as they sold us - all brothers to the white folks… slavery in Africa was a very black affair.

Please don’t spend the millions you think coming... please. Also check Independence documents... Small print… UK Monarch present and ancestors included a clause that The Bahamas renounces all possible future claims. Please please don’t spend what you will never receive... dreams Sir dreams!

H HUMES Nassau, October 18, 2024.

Jones’ WNBA MVP performance inspires hometown

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

GRAND Bahama residents are proud of their daughter of the soil, Jonquel Jones, for the New York Liberty’s historic WNBA Championship win and for being named the 2024 Finals MVP.

Ms Jones, a native of Holmes Rock, West Grand Bahama, celebrated the win with her teammates and her mother, who was there with her on the court as she received the MVP trophy.

The NY Liberty’s victory over the Minnesota Lynx came Sunday night, with Jones scoring a team-high 17 points and six rebounds.

“Y’all know my story,” Jones said during her oncourt interview. “Y’all know how many times I’ve been denied, but it was delayed, that’s all it was. I’m so happy to do it here.”

Ms Jones left home at age 13 to live with strangers so that she could play basketball in the United States. She said she saw it as a way to help support her family.

Bahamian college basketball player Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe, a freshman with the Baylor Bears, congratulated Jones on

their historic championship win.

“It was with great pride to see my Bahamian basketball sister, Jonquel Jones, and her New York Liberty squad capture the WNBA 2024 finals title on Sunday,” he said in a statement.

The Game 5 championship win was the New York Liberty’s first franchise title after 28 years in the league and Jonquel’s first after her fourth trip to the finals.

Edgecombe said Jonquel’s MVP performance inspires him and thousands of young people in The Bahamas and throughout the world.

“I am pleased to identify with her journey; leaving a small northern island as a teenager to follow my dreams,” he said. “Her ongoing achievements are a testament to hard work, dedication, and commitment.

“I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Jonquel Jones with true national pride, and to the state of New York where I played a stint of high school basketball.”

“Never quit, and know that The Bahamas is a constant world-class Jonquel reminder that no matter where you come from, just dare to dream big.”

Two accused of armed robbery and housebreaking

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

TWO men were remanded to prison yesterday after being accused of an armed robbery on West Bay Street last month. Senior Magistrate Kendra Kelly arraigned Renaldo Charles, 23, and Lucendre Paul, 24, on charges of armed robbery, receiving, and housebreaking.

Charles faced three additional counts of housebreaking and charges of stealing and receiving.

The pair allegedly robbed someone on West Bay Street on September 30 while armed with a dangerous weapon. Charles was also reportedly involved in a series of house break-ins in New Providence over the past year. Both defendants pleaded not guilty to their shared

housebreaking charges, but Charles pleaded guilty to his remaining charges.

The two were informed that their armed robbery charge would be sent to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI), set to be served on December 11. Charles will be sentenced for his housebreaking charges today, while Paul will remain on remand in prison until the VBI is prepared.

MAN ON BAIL CHARGED FOR HAVING FIREAR M

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was remanded in custody yesterday after being charged with a second firearm offence while on bail for a previous one.

Magistrate Lennox Coleby arraigned Raphael Neymour, 39, on charges of violating bail conditions, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of ammunition.

The defendant appeared before the magistrate on crutches, holding an inhaler, and wearing a hospital band

on his wrist.

Neymour was allegedly found with a black Taurus 9mm pistol and five rounds of 9mm ammunition in New Providence on October 18. He was also accused of failing to charge his monitoring device for a previous firearm charge between October 16 and 18.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The prosecutor, Assistant Superintendent of Police Lewis, objected to the defendant’s bail, citing his pending firearm charge.

Deon Smith, representing

Neymour, claimed his client had informed him that power outages in Bimini had prevented him from charging the device.

ASP Lewis countered, saying that the police station’s power supply is always operational.

Magistrate Coleby denied Neymour bail due to a pending charge of a similar nature.

The accused was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until his trial on December 10. He will be allowed access to his medication while in remand.

NEW York Liberty forward Jonquel Jones reacts after being given the MVP Award after winning the championship against the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of the WNBA basketball final series, Sunday in New York.

Photo: Pamela Smith/AP

BAHAMIAN college basketball player Valdez “VJ” Edgecombe.

DEPUTY to the Governor General, Ruby Ann Darling visited and celebrated with Mr Levonne Calvin Moxey on the occasion of his 100th birthday. Ms Darling presented Mr Moxey with a Message from King Charles III and a Message from the Governor General, Her Excellency Dame Cynthia Pratt on Sunday. Pictured from left: Elaine Major, sister, who is 102 years old; Levonne Moxey, 100 years old; and Ruby Ann Darling, Deputy to the Governor General. Photos: Letisha Henderson/BIS

Sean Leadon: a legacy worth preserving

SEAN Leadon has inherited a rich legacy in bonefishing. His father, Rupert Leadon, was amongst a league of pioneers in the sport who paved the way for what is today a $141m industry in The Bahamas. Bonefish guides like Charles “Crazy Charlie” Smith, Nelson Leadon, Errol Brennen, Ivan Neymour, Sean’s father Rupert, and many others redefined what bonefish would mean to The Bahamas.

“Back in the day,” Sean said. “They would go line fishing for bonefish.”

“They would keep every bonefish they caught. Now it’s catch and release - a much more sustainable practice - and one fish is worth so much more.”

One bonefish alive is worth $3,500 a year in the Florida Keys, according to one University of Miami study. Anglers travel from all around the world to enjoy bonefishing in The Bahamas. A survey by Mackey (2015) found that flats anglers spent about $4,608 during their fishing trip in The Bahamas.

Sean was an eight yearold boy growing up in Central Andros when he started learning how to fish for bonefish. During his dad’s younger days, bonefish were caught for bait and used for offshore fishing. They would fish in the creeks for the bonefish, then take the tourists offshore for deep sea fishing. They found, however, that anglers absolutely loved fishing for bonefish - and were more interested in the catch and release.

Sean said that Crazy

Face to Face

By FELICITY DARVILLE

Charlie created the first bonefish fly in The Bahamas, called the Crazy Charlie Fly; and his father created the second - the Gotcha Fly. This allowed them to catch bonefish without having to use fresh bait, as was previously done. These flys imitated the shrimp, minnows (silverside fish) and crabs that the bonefish preyed on within the beds of the creeks.

It was a fascinating time for Sean, growing up in Central Andros, being exposed to some of the leading guides in the business, and meeting amazing people from around the world. He was hooked from a young age and to date, he has 31 years of professional experience in the business. His parents, Ralph and Shirley Leadon, are his inspiration. Ralph was a mechanical engineer who worked at the Lighthouse Club and US Autec Base in Andros. His mother was a public service worker who dared to dream and became an entrepreneur with her own business, Point of View Guiding Service. With so much to see on the vast and beautiful island of Andros, and with a warm personality and bright smile, Shirley was successful.

As the bonefish industry took flight, the Leadons fulfilled yet another dream. Today, they successfully run the Andros Island Bonefish Lodge, nestled directly on the breathtaking Cargill Creek in Andros. The lodge caters to 24 anglers at full capacity, offering an unforgettable bonefishing experience. It sits on ten acres of pristine land with a twelve-room double occupancy lodge with a large lounge and wide open deck.

Sean lives on the property, and he’s part owner with his parents, while also running his own company, Andros Outdoor Adventures.

The Leadon’s found success by being genuine about themselves and what their island had to offer. With persistence, his father sought to embark upon a new career away from the machines and cogs of his engineering fields and into the flats and the creeks he loved so much.

“Growing up, all of the big names in the bonefishing industry were my uncles,” Sean said. “I was ingrained in the business early on.”

“Ted Williams, the famous baseball player;

Billy Pate; George Hommel, former owner of Bass Pro; Lefty khrey; and so many others… I saw them regularly coming to fish with my father.”

His parents started the lodge, thanks to a loan from the Bahamas Development Bank. They may have had high hopes, but they got so much more. They have hosted people from all around the world, including celebrities, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, star athletes, and much more. Their guests are often repeat visitors, who have also recommended them to family and friends.

Sean says his parents’ legacy leaves much to be proud of. His sister, Juliette Newbold partners with him in the lodge, and of his 12 living siblings, they are all excelling, including one who is a cardiologist and another, who

is a forensic scientist.

Although he has a strong background in formal education, Sean prefers the crystal clear Andros waters, and the comforts that Cargill Creek brings. He majored in business management with a minor in accounting, then went on to earn an environmental science degree from Florida State University.

Today, Sean is one of several of the first bonefish wardens who will aid in the protection of Bahamian waters and natural resources. Appointed by Minister of the Environment & Natural Resources (MENR) Vaughn P Miller, these guides, who already have a vested interest in the industry, have more power to protect it.

“The Ministry of Environment has shown support,” Sean said, “And now the Minister has

appointed several guides as wardens, which will help to ensure protection for our environment.” Bonefishing guides, experts and wardens from Eleuthera, Cat Island, Exuma, New Providence, Abaco, Grand Bahama, Long Island, Inagua, Ragged Island, Crooked Island, Acklins and Andros recently converged to discuss the bonefishing industry and the way forward. The Second Bahamas Flats Fishing Guide Homecoming Conclave was held September 2021, 2024. Prime Minister Philip E Davis opened the event, held in the Blue Marlin Ballroom, Courtyard Marriott, Junkanoo Beach, Nassau, Bahamas. Minister Miller hosted the event under the theme: “Guides as Ambassadors: Strengthening Local Livelihoods and Conservation”.

The ministry and the guides advanced with a shared vision to advance environmental conservation, sustainably grow The Bahamas flats fishing sector, and enhance the livelihood of the Bahamian communities that depend on coastal marine resources. The conclave sought to address these challenges while empowering Bahamian guides as stewards of both the environment and the local economy.

Sean looks forward with optimism about the fly fishing sector. He is highly concerned about mining, noting that it has the potential to damage delicate aquifers and destroy critical ecosystems that the bonefish industry depends on. In addition, he’s looking for the Government to continue to find ways to support fly fishing guides in The Bahamas, providing opportunities that will allow them to expand their craft. In the meantime, Sean will be doing what he loves best - connecting with nature, catching a bonefish or two, and letting him go back home to rest, just like

he does every evening in Cargill Creek.

THE GOTCHA FLY, created by Ralph Leadon in The Bahamas, used to lure bonefish.

BONEFISH guide of three decades, Sean Leadon

MINISTER of the Environment & Natural Resources, Vaughn P Miller, seated, centre, surrounded by bonefish guides from throughout The Bahamas who will also serve as environmental wardens liaising with the ministry regarding infractions to the environmental law.

Royal tour with a difference

HOW interesting it has been to observe events

“down under” these last few days as King Charles makes his first visit to Australia since ascending to the throne. It is the first visit there by a reigning monarch for a decade and it is his biggest overseas trip since his cancer diagnosis and the start of treatment last February. It is also his first trip to one of the 14 realms where he remains head of state. A separate visit to New Zealand, which is also a realm, was originally scheduled but was later dropped on medical advice.

After Australia, where he arrived on October 18, the King will move on to the small sovereign country of Samoa in the Pacific for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting from October 25 to 26. For the first time as head of the voluntary association of the Commonwealth, he will preside over a summit meeting of the government leaders from all its 56 member states which will be preceded by separate ministerial meetings. This summit takes place every two years.

The current trip is King Charles’ 17th visit overall to Australia. A notably significant one was as Prince of Wales in 1983 when Princess Diana accompanied him. Their visit was judged at the time to have been a resounding success.

The current trip is, by royal standards, relatively brief and pared down on account of his health as doubts have been expressed about whether, as a man of seventy-five and suffering from cancer, he could cope physically with the rigours of a full-blown tour. It has thus been limited to six days and he has suspended his cancer treatment in order to be there.

So he will only be visiting

HAVING written recently about how the wars in Ukraine and Gaza have been alternately top of the world media’s agenda, the events surrounding both during the last weeks seem to have taken centre stage.

The emphasis on both has evidently reflected the significance of developments and the intense activity of Western diplomacy in handling the two of them.

The respected senior BBC journalist, Jeremy Bowen, is reported to have said that the past year of killing and broken assumptions and commitments in Gaza - and now in Lebanon as well – has taken the Middle East to the edge of a deeper, wider war.

US TV stations report the facts of the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine but there appears to be relatively little informed analysis in linking events together and examining the likely consequences or listening

The Peter Young column

Sydney and Canberra and will be attending just a handful of events, and meeting political and community leaders – mainly, but not exclusively, in connection with the environment and the impact of climate change. In order to conserve his energy no evening engagements are included in the programme.

But the King is known to be a “workaholic” and, despite his cancer treatment, he is said to be keen to “get back to normal” with his traditionally heavy round of public engagements and series of overseas trips; and, encouragingly, royal aides have said recently on the record that “his health is on a positive trajectory”. In common with other such royal visits, the Australian trip will be a mixture of diplomacy, culture and the environment and, most importantly, of people. For officials in London, a visit to Australia would normally be seen as traditionally safe territory. However, inevitably this trip has rekindled debate about the nation’s constitutional links to Britain. At present, Australia is a representative democracy

to acknowledged experts offering an objective view.

To the outsider, too many of these stations are mainly concerned, through endless commercial breaks, with selling things to the viewer and forcing preconceived political notions on to them without any proper debate – and, as an example, MSNBC seem to be one of the worst.

As for the situation in the two war theatres, the almost daily gruesome reports of Israeli air strikes on Gaza and Beirut killing civilians in both places shows that hostilities seem to be intensifying. There has been news of Israel assassinating senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, missiles being fired consistently into Israel - including a drone attack from Lebanese territory on prime minister Netanyahu’s house - and, of course Iran’s bombing attack on Israel. It remains to be seen how the Israelis will respond to

and a constitutional monarchy so that the sovereign remains the nation’s head of state and acts in accordance with the Australian Constitution. It is also a federation of states. But the powers have been delegated to his representative, the Governor General, who is not involved in the day-to-day workings of the federal or state governments in Australia and acts upon the advice of the country’s ministers. The Governor General is appointed by the King on the advice of the Australian prime minister. The recurring controversy over republicanism has become more intense recently, and this royal visit could put the issue back in focus. That will prompt further questions about the future of the monarchy in

the latter but Netanyahu says he is undeterred by the attack on his own house in which no one was hurt. He also says Israel will go on fighting until the hostages are released and he can be sure that a severely weakened Hamas is not able to rearm and resume its terrorist activity.

Amidst all this, it is surely particularly significant that the US has expressed its deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. It is taking a tough stance in telling Israel that US military support and other aid will be cut off if it continues to obstruct humanitarian aid to Gaza and that this aid is not resumed properly without delay. In a joint letter from the secretary of state and the defense secretary, which has been leaked, they issued a stern warning about this and demanded that the north of Gaza should not be cut off

Australia and whether the nation should now become a republic. Indeed, it has happened already with the King being heckled by a senator after addressing the Australian Parliament. Monarchists expect that the visit will serve to increase Australians’ connection to the sovereign. In a referendum in 1999 a majority voted to keep The Queen as head of state. Recently, however, people are reported to be more divided on the issue, and it is now estimated that some 45 percent of Australians want the nation to remain a constitutional monarchy. There have been rumblings of republicanism across the local media and the country’s Republican Movement has been gaining strength. Its supporters reject the

while civilians were forcibly repatriated. I have also read that, following the atrocities of October 7, the Israelis announced “a complete siege” of the Gaza Strip, which meant no fuel or food would be allowed in, but that this was moderated under American pressure. Meanwhile, in Europe there have been meetings at the highest level about Ukraine and the Middle East. President Zelensky has had further talks with EU leaders and President Biden made a brief visit to Berlin after having to pull out of an international trip earlier this month because of Hurricane Milton. The British and French leaders also attended the meetings in Berlin hosted by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Some commentators say this visit was more symbolic than anything else and will be seen as a farewell at the end of Biden’s presidency. But it was surely important that these leaders should show Western solidarity again in agreeing to ‘sustain our resolve’ in supporting Ukraine. According to reports, Biden also thanked Scholz for Germany’s cooperation in holding Iran accountable for its destabilizing policies, including providing missiles and drones to Russia for use against Ukraine. Drawing attention to just some of these recent events demonstrates once again the harsh reality of the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East and Western efforts to deal with them -- and everyone surely realises that the longer term future depends, to a greater or lesser extent, on the outcome of the US elections on November 5.

notion that someone from the other side of the world should be Australia’s head of state. Meanwhile, inevitably the links between the two countries seem to have been weakening over the years, especially in relation to trade and the economy after Britain joined the European Economic Community in 1973. Furthermore, the Australia Acts of 1986 ended the inclusion into Australian law of British Acts of Parliament and abolished all remaining constitutional provision for appeals from Australian courts to the Privy Council in London. Nonetheless, even if Australia became a republic, the presumption is that it would stay as a member of the Commonwealth

– as Barbados did after it changed from being a realm to a republic in 2021. Be all that as it may, the King has stated publicly and in writing that whether or not Australia moves to become a republic is a matter for the Australians themselves.

This echoed the words of The Queen who wrote in 2000 that she had always made it clear that the future of the monarchy in Australia was an issue for Australians. Interestingly, this is also a matter for discussion in the Bahamas which remains a realm. As the Prince of Wales said in a speech during his visit to Nassau in 2022, ‘We support with pride and respect your decisions about your future. Relationships evolve. Friendship endures’.

Keeping up with the times

NOT everyone will have welcomed the recent decision by the Wimbledon authorities to end 147 years of tradition with line judges being replaced by electronic line-calling. But, reportedly, the All England Club has said the “time is right” to do this as the oldest and most prestigious grand slam tennis tournament in the world takes another step in to the modern age. This move reminds one, in particular, of what might be called the McEnroe era. The feisty Irish American John McEnroe, who was ranked as the top player in the world for four years during the 1980s, was notorious for remonstrating with – or rather shouting loudly at – umpires and line judges over calls that did not go his way. “You cannot be serious” was his usual expression of anger at the injustice of it all. At Wimbledon, he seemed to get away with his aggressive behaviour without any real sanction. But eventually it caught up with all the players when the discipline and code of conduct at tennis tournaments on the professional circuit became, in the view of many, excessively strict. All for the good of the game, one may say. But it is quite an irony that it was the uncontrolled extreme antics of one player that led to such a tightening up – more severe than it might have been - for everybody else.

BRITAIN’s King Charles III inspects the Guard of Honour at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, Monday.

Photo: Mick Tsikas/AP

WORKERS clean a street under a giant portrait of the late Hezbollah military commander Imad Mughniyeh, as smoke rises from a destroyed building that was hit by an Israeli airstrike in Dahiyeh, in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, Sunday.

Photo: Hussein Malla/AP

WIMBLEDON authorities to end 147 years of tradition with line judges being replaced by electronic line-calling.

Tropical Storm Oscar dumps heavy rain on eastern Cuba as it heads toward the Bahamas

HAVANA Associated Press

TROPICAL Storm Oscar dumped heavy rain across eastern Cuba on Monday after making landfall as a Category 1 hurricane on the island already beleaguered by a massive power outage.

Its maximum sustained winds blew at 40 mph (65 kph) on Monday as Oscar moved north-northwest at 7 mph (11 kph). The storm was located about 80 miles (130 kilometres) northwest of Guantánamo, Cuba, the US National Hurricane Center in Miami said.

Up to 14 inches (36 centimetres) of rain were forecast across eastern Cuba, with isolated amounts of up to 20 inches (about 50 centimetres).

“The main concern is just very heavy rainfall that’s occurring over portions of eastern Cuba right now that are likely producing significant flooding and even potentially some mudslides in that area,” said Philippe Papin, a hurricane specialist at the National Hurricane Center.

Oscar is the smallest hurricane on record, with a wind field of only about six miles (10 kilometres) across, according to hurricane specialist and storm surge expert Michael Lowry.

He noted that not a single forecast model indicated that Oscar might strengthen into a hurricane on Saturday before making landfall in the Bahamas. “It’s not often we see a colossal failure in hurricane forecasting,” he wrote in an analysis published Monday.

Oscar made landfall in the eastern Cuban province of Guantanamo, near the city of Baracoa, on Sunday evening with winds of 75 mph (120 kph). The storm had also made landfall on Saturday on Great Inagua in the Bahamas, where residents were evacuated after their homes were damaged. Rain and flooding in lowlying areas were reported in

Cuba’s eastern provinces. Cuban media said 2-metre (6.5-feet) swells were hitting the coast and that roofs and walls in Baracoa had been damaged.

The storm is expected to emerge off Cuba’s northern coast late Monday and move near the southeastern and central Bahamas on Tuesday, US forecasters said.

A tropical storm warning was in effect for the north coast of the Cuban provinces of Las Tunas, Holguin, and Guantanamo to Punta Maisi; for the south coast of Guantánamo province; and for the southeastern Bahamas. A warning also was in effect for the central Bahamas.

Cuba suffered an islandwide power blackout Friday.

Some electrical service was restored Saturday, but most residents remain without power. The country’s energy minister expressed hope that the grid could be restored Monday or Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Kristy formed off Mexico’s southern Pacific coast on Monday, but it was not expected to pose a threat to land. The storm was located 275 miles (440 kilometres) south-southwest of Acapulco and was moving west at 17 mph (28 kph). It had sustained winds of 40 mph (65 kph), according to the National Hurricane Center. Kristy was forecast to strengthen into a hurricane Wednesday but continue moving over open waters.

Some people love to scare themselves - here’s the psychology of why

By SARAH KOLL AT Penn State

FALL for me as a teenager meant football games, homecoming dresses –and haunted houses. My friends organized group trips to the local fairground, where barn sheds were turned into halls of horror, and masked men nipped at our ankles with (chainless) chain saws as we waited in line, anticipating deeper frights to come once we were inside.

I’m not the only one who loves a good scare. Halloween attractions company America Haunts estimates Americans are spending upward of US$500 million annually on haunted house entrance fees simply for the privilege of being frightened. And lots of fright fans don’t limit their horror entertainment to spooky season, gorging horror movies, shows and books all year long.

To some people, this preoccupation with horror can seem tone deaf. School shootings, child abuse, war – the list of real-life horrors is endless. Why seek manufactured fear for entertainment when the world offers real terror in such large quantities?

As a developmental psychologist who writes dark thrillers on the side, I find the intersection of psychology and fear intriguing.

To explain what drives this fascination with fear, I point to the theory that emotions evolved as a universal experience in humans because they help us survive. Creating fear in otherwise safe lives can be enjoyable – and is a way for people to practice and prepare for real-life dangers.

Fear can feel good

Controlled fear experiences – where you can click your remote, close the book, or walk out of the haunted house whenever you want – offer the physiological high that fear triggers, without any real risk.

When you perceive yourself under threat, adrenaline surges in your body and the evolutionary fight-or-flight response

is activated. Your heart rate increases, you breathe deeper and faster, and your blood pressure goes up. Your body is preparing to defend itself against the danger or get away as fast as possible. This physical reaction is crucial when facing a real threat. When experiencing controlled fear – like jump scares in a zombie TV show – you get to enjoy this energized sensation, similar to a runner’s high, without any risks. And then, once the threat is dealt with, your body releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, which provides sensations of pleasure and relief. In one study, researchers found that people who visited a high-intensity haunted house as a controlled fear experience displayed less brain activity in response to stimuli and less anxiety post-exposure. This finding suggests that exposing yourself to horror films, scary stories or suspenseful video games can actually calm

you afterward. The effect might also explain why my husband and I choose to relax by watching zombie shows after a busy day at work.

T he ties that bind

An essential motivation for human beings is the sense of belonging to a social group. According to the surgeon general, Americans who miss those connections are caught up in an epidemic of loneliness, which leaves people at risk for mental and physical health issues.

Going through intense fear experiences together strengthens the bonds between individuals. Good examples include veterans who served together in combat, survivors of natural disasters, and the “families” created in groups of first responders.

I’m a volunteer firefighter, and the unique connection created through sharing intense threats, such as entering a burning building together, manifests in deep

emotional bonds with my colleagues. After a significant fire call, we often note the improved morale and camaraderie of the firehouse. I feel a flood of positive emotions anytime I think of my firefighting partners, even when the events occurred months or years ago.

Controlled fear experiences artificially create similar opportunities for bonding. Exposure to stress triggers not only the fight-or-flight response, but in many situations it also initiates what psychologists call the “tend-and-befriend” system. A perceived threat prompts humans to tend to offspring and create social-emotional bonds for protection and comfort. This system is largely regulated by the so-called “love hormone” oxytocin.

The tend-and-befriend reaction is particularly likely when you experience stress around others with whom you have already established positive social connections. When you

encounter stressors within your social network, your oxytocin levels rise to initiate social coping strategies.

As a result, when you navigate a recreational fear experience like a haunted house with friends, you are setting the emotional stage to feel bonded with the people beside you. Sitting in the dark with friends while you watch a scary movie or navigating a haunted corn maze with a date is good for your health, in that it helps you strengthen those social connections.

Controlled fear experiences can also be a way for you to prepare for the worst. Think of the early days of the COVID19 pandemic, when the films “Contagion” and “Outbreak” trended on streaming platforms as people around the world sheltered at home. By watching threat scenarios play out in controlled

ways through media, you can learn about your fears and emotionally prepare for future threats.

For example, researchers at Aarhus University’s Recreational Fear Lab in Denmark demonstrated in one study that people who regularly consumed horror media were more psychologically resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic than nonhorror fans. The scientists suggest that this resilience might be a result of a kind of training these fans went through – they practiced coping with the fear and anxiety provoked by their preferred form of entertainment. As a result, they were better prepared to manage the real fear triggered by the pandemic.

When I’m not teaching, I’m an avid reader of crime fiction. I also write psychological thrillers under the pen name Sarah K. Stephens. As both a reader and writer, I notice similar themes in the books I am drawn to, all of which tie into my own deep-rooted fears: mothers who fail their children somehow, women manipulated into subservience, lots of misogynist antagonists.

I enjoy writing and reading about my fears – and seeing the bad guys get their just desserts in the end – because it offers a way for me to control the story. Consuming these narratives lets me mentally rehearse how I would handle these kinds of circumstances if any were to manifest in my real life.

SURV I V E AN D T H RI V E In the case of controlled fear experiences, scaring yourself is a pivotal technique to help you survive and adapt in a frightening world. By eliciting powerful, positive emotions, strengthening social networks and preparing you for your worst fears, you’re better able to embrace each day to its fullest. So the next time you’re choosing between an upbeat comedy and a creepy thriller for your movie night, pick the dark side – it’s good for your health.

THIS satellite image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration taken at 6:40pm on Sunday, shows Hurricane Oscar.

Photo: NOAA/AP

GEORGE TOWN PRIMARY VICTORIOUS IN FIRST-EVER EXUMA PRIMARY SCHOOL SOCCER TOURNAMENT

THE first-ever Exuma Primary School Soccer Tournament, a milestone in the development of youth soccer on the island, concluded on October 21 at L.N. Coakley High School grounds in Moss Town, Exuma.

From October 16-21, four coed teams - George Town Primary School, Moss Town Primary School, Exuma Christian Academy, and St. Andrew’s Primary - competed in a series of exciting matches to showcase their skills and sportsmanship.

In the tournament’s final game, George Town Primary secured a 2-0 victory against St. Andrew’s Primary, emerging as champions of this inaugural event.

Deven Johnson, physical education teacher, expressed the excitement of the students, saying: “They were excited, they had fun, and enjoyed every moment!”

The tournament is part of the Bahamas Football Association’s ongoing efforts to grow the sport of soccer in the Family Islands. Exuma has been a focal point for the BFA, which has been working to increase youth engagement and enhance local football programmes.

In September, BFA technical director Bruce Swan visited Exuma, where eight local coaches earned their D License certificates, marking a significant step forward in the island’s football development. This tournament reflects the BFA’s commitment to developing youth football in Exuma and ensuring that young athletes have the opportunity to play, grow and compete in a supportive environment. The BFA looks forward to building on the success of this event and expanding football initiatives in the Family Islands.

BYFFL 15U All-Stars capture second title

obliterated the secondseeded BNA Elite team 25-0 to hoist the championship trophy. Chris Munroe was named the Player of the Game.

After coming up short at the tournament in earlier years, the 15U team has now lifted the championship trophy in 2022 and in 2024. The Bahamas All-Stars 14U team put out a valiant effort in their age group. The team prevailed 18-13 in the opening round against the STV Orange youth football team.

They were defeated by the GESA YungStarz in the next game 6-0 but managed to pull off a gutsy 21-20 comeback against the fifth seeded STV Orange team.

After booking a spot in the semis, the Bahamas’

TALENTED BUNCH: The Bahamas Youth Flag Football League All-Stars returned home yesterday evening in good spirits after a strong showing at the USA Flag Orlando Cup Tournament in Orlando, Florida, over the weekend. The 15U All-Stars won their second championship in four years in the 16U division against BNA Elite. The 14U team made it all the way to the semis before falling to the first-seeded Mad Dogs. The 10U got to experience their first overseas action during the tourney.

14U All-Stars fell to the first seeded Mad Dogs Elite 21-0. Meanwhile, the Bahamas’ 10U All-Stars competed in the tourney for the first time. They went

head-to-head with the Rock Sports Raiders and were defeated 28-0. Their second matchup of the group stage was against Team Rockout and they came up short 20-0. The 10U All-Stars

ATHLETES SHINE AT WILLIAM ‘KNUCKLEHEAD’ JOHNSON CROSS COUNTRY INVITATIONAL

overall winner of the under-20 boys’ category with a total of 17 points.

The CI Gibson Rattlers earned the second spot with 56 points and the CR Walker Knights ended the category in third with 67 points.

Sharan Roker, representing the T-Bird Flyers, narrowly edged out the competition in the under-20 boys’ event. He crossed the line in a time of 10:50.83. Placing second was Hurry Murray’s Ross Martin in 10:51.17.

Shelvince Jean-Baptiste, of CC Sweeting, finished third overall with a time of 11:20.55.

The Knights claimed the under-20 girls’ division with a score of 34. The Rattlers were second again with 43 points and the RM Bailey Pacers rounded out the top three with 52 points.

SPORTS CALENDAR

FROM PAGE 16

in participating are urged to contact tournament coordinator Judy Hamilton for more details.

CYCLING

BBSF CLASSIC

AFTER postponing their event two weeks ago, the Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation is scheduled to hold its cycling classic on Saturday, October 26 at the park at the entrance of Perpall Tract. The event will begin at 9am and will provide competition for male and female in the open masters 30 years and older, open under-30, juniors 15-17, 12-14 and 9-11. Awards will be presented to the

Road Runners’ Akaree Roberts came up big in the under-20 girls’ event. She won with the best overall time of 13:45.37.

Dahija Mesidor, representing CR Walker, dropped to second place with a time of 14:33.20.

Tellica Seymour, of Rising Star Athletics, stopped the clock at 14:38.24 for the third podium spot. It was a close battle in the under-17 boys’ category but Fast Forward prevailed with a winning total of 44 points.

The Rattlers nabbed the second position with 49 points and the Knights settled for third with 58 points. Kyden Thurston represented the T-Bird Flyers well in the under-17 boys’ event. He won the race in 7:58.15. Hurry Murray’s Jason Ferguson posted a time of 8:19.04 for second place and RM Bailey’s

first three finishers in each category. BSAA CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

THE Bahamas Scholastic Athletic Association will hold its cross country championships on Saturday, October 26. The event will begin at 10am at Goodman’s Bay. Interested persons are urged to contact Emerrick Taylor at 565-4962, Keno Demeritte at 436-6921 or Mr Burrows at 433-5070 for more information.

BBSF CLASSIC

THE Bahamas Basketball Sports Federation postponed its cycling classic on Saturday and will now be rescheduled for Saturday, October 26, at the Perpall Park on West Bay Street.

Stanley Pratt was right behind him at 8:19.10.

The CR Walker Knights and RM Bailey Pacers finished first and second respectively in the under-17 girls’ division.

The Knights accumulated 24 points while the Pacers concluded with 34 points.

Jasmine Thompson led the way in the under17 girls’ event, clocking 10:07.04 in a winning effort.

The next two spots went to Hurry Murray’s Ramonique Mclennon and Breynice Kemp.

Mclennon stopped the clock at 10:08.13 and Kemp was a step behind at 10:52.83.

The LW Young Golden Eagles swept the under-15 division on Saturday.

They secured the under15 boys’ category with 32 points and the under15 girls’ category with 15 points overall.

The event is scheduled to begin at 9am on the new date and will cater to the open and masters men and women divisions as well as the boys and girls 15-17, 12-14 and 9-11 years old divisions. The entry fee is $20, which will include the use of a bike.

CYCLING FEDERATION

ELECTION OF OFFICERS

THE Bahamas Cycling Federation’s secretary general Barron “Turbo” Musgrove has announced that their general meeting and election of officers will take place on Saturday, October 26.

The elections are all set to be held at the office of the Bahamas Olympic Committee, starting at 5pm.

ended their tournament experience with a 28-0 loss against the fourth seeded Team Rockout. Dwayna Lynes was selected as the 10U Player of the Game.

Jayson Clarke, BYFFL programme director, was pleased with the tournament and the overall performances of the BYFFL All-Stars. “Overall, it was a great tournament.

The 10U team is a developing team and this is the first time they have played overseas. Like our 15U team that is dominating now, when they came to this tournament four years ago they didn’t win a single game but in the last four years they have won this tournament twice - 2022 and again in 2024. “It is developing and it is a great tournament and it is good prep for the USA Flag World Championships in January that we will be heading to with four teams. It was a great tournament, great atmosphere to play in and a great way to give our kids exposure in terms of the game and how to compete internationally,” he said. The 2025 USA Flag Youth World Championships is slated for January 18-19 in Tampa, Florida.

Shawne Ferguson, of Road Runners Track Club, emerged victorious in 8:29.38 in the under-15 boys’ event. Unique Athletics’ Ayden Russell dropped to second with his time of 8:32.94 and the T-Bird Flyers’ Denzel Clarke ended the event in 8:42.89.

Nominations for positions in the federation must be submitted to Musgrove in person or via email atbammus1967@gmail.com by Sunday, October 13. Positions to be filled are president, two vice presidents, general secretary, assistant secretary, treasurer and assistant treasurer The current president is Roy Colebrooke.

BAPTIST

SPORTS FEDERATION TRACK MEET

THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation will hold its Renee ‘Sunshine’ Curry-Davis Memorial Track and Field Classic on Saturday, November 16, at the Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

The meet, hosted in conjunction with the Ministry

and

In the girls’ division, Mia Van Der Riet pulled off the victory in 10:07.99 for King’s College School.

The next best performers were Christyn Smith and Angel Culmer of Fast Forward.

Smith placed second in 10:29.16 and Culmer got third place in 10:32.97.

of Youth, Sports and Culture and the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials, will recognise Curry-Davis, a former executive of the BBSF, who was working as the director for track and field before her death this year.

Beginning at 9am, the meet will be geared for men and women competing in the under-7, under-11, under-15, under-20 under-30 open, under-50 open and masters 50-and-over categories as well as the clergy for pastors, ministers, evangelists and deacons. The entry deadline for teams to participate is Friday, November 1 and should be submitted to TEK Results via tmoss@ locbahamas.org or contact Brent Stubbs at 426-7265

Next up on the cross country schedule will be the Bahamas Scholastic Athletic Association Cross Country Championships on October 26. This meet will be followed by the Government Secondary School Sports Association cross country meet on November 2.

or email stubbobs@gmail. com. A technical meeting will take place at 6pm on Tuesday, November 12 at the Bahamas Baptist College, Jean Street.

TEE-OFF FOR HUNGER THE Bahamas Feeding Network is scheduled to host its 3rd annual Tee-off For Hunger on December 9 with Fidelity as its title sponsor. The tournament will begin at 12:30pm at the Ocean Club Golf Course, Paradise Island. All interested players must register at https://app. eventcaddy.com/events/ tee-off-for-hunger-2024/ register. Players will be in teams of two and the registration fee is $500 per team.

PHYSICAL education teacher Deven Adderley celebrates with students as they proudly display their medals won in the inaugural Exuma Primary School Soccer Tournament, which brought together young players from across Exuma, creating lasting memories of teamwork and sportsmanship.

HUNDREDS of athletes from various high schools

local track clubs showed up and turned in strong performances at the William “Knucklehead” Johnson Cross Country Invitational hosted at St Augustine’s College on Saturday.

NBA season set to begin with the Celtics seeking a 19th title and several challengers looming

By TIM REYNOLDS AP Basketball Writer

JAYSON Tatum was already a proven winner before last season.

In Tatum’s first six seasons, no NBA player won more games with one team than he did. Tatum played in 334 wins with the Boston Celtics over that span, including playoffs. He was a five-time All-Star, a legitimate MVP candidate, a four-time All-NBA pick, even an Olympic gold medallist.

He just wasn’t a champion.

“I had to listen to all the (stuff) that people said about me,” Tatum said.

That’s all in the past now.

The Celtics are champions, coach Joe Mazzulla leading them to that crown, and when the season starts tonight in Boston — where last season ended — Tatum doesn’t seem to be considering it the start of a title defence. He’s looking at it as the start of a chase for a 19th title, and according to BetMGM Sportsbook, the Celtics are the favourite to claim the 2025 championship.

“It was never just about trying to just win one,” said Tatum, who added a second Olympic gold to his collection this summer.

“Now you get to be mentioned with — at least be in the same room with — the other Celtics great teams, great players. All the guys that I looked up to growing up at least won one championship. Now it’s just a conversation of: ‘How great are you trying to be? What room or what tier are you trying to be mentioned in when it’s all said and done?’”

That journey starts with ring night in Boston, where the Celtics take on New York in the first game of a doubleheader to formally open the league’s 79th season.

The nightcap is Minnesota at the Los Angeles Lakers, a game that will see LeBron James tie Vince Carter by playing in a 22nd NBA season — and potentially the first official game where a father and son are teammates, with Bronny James entering his rookie season.

There will be challengers to a Boston repeat, and a lot of them.

New York (adding Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns) and Philadelphia (adding Paul George) loaded up to try to supplant Boston atop the Eastern Conference.

And there are rising teams in the East as well, like the Paolo Bancheroled Orlando Magic and Donovan Mitchell-led Cleveland Cavaliers — who made Round 2 of the playoffs last season.

“We’ve just got to keep our foot on the gas,” Mitchell said. “We’ve got to keep going.”

And the Western Conference also has several contenders.

BetMGM has Oklahoma City — the No. 1 seed in the West last season, led by MVP hopeful Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — as the narrow favourite to win that side of the league, with 2023 NBA champion Denver, reigning West champion Dallas and a Minnesota team that went to the West finals a season ago all in the mix.

“You have to be careful with expectations put on outcomes,” Thunder forward Chet Holmgren said.

“Around here we really emphasize putting expectations on processes, how we show up every day, how we go about our work, what we do, and the attention of detail that we do it to.

That’s what we’re really focused on.”

Golden State’s Stephen Curry helped the U.S. win Olympic gold this summer; the Warriors can never be counted out.

And with James, neither can the Lakers.

“We’re the hunters, amongst many other teams,” Curry said. “What can this team do to maximise every skill set that we have in that locker room? That’s the challenge for us.”

The West is just loaded. But these Celtics — who return virtually intact from a year ago — know what it takes to be the last team standing.

“Boston can say whatever they want to say. They’ve earned it. They beat all of us and they were crowned,” Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said.

“So, they can feel however they want to feel going into this season. With that said, (they) still have to earn it. But it’s a new

season, new year. There’ll be a bunch of teams that are gunning for that title.” Coaches on the move JJ Redick was coaching the fourth-grade team at Brooklyn Basketball Academy earlier this year. He’s now coaching the Los Angeles Lakers. Redick is one of three coaches about to make their NBA debuts, joining Charlotte’s Charles Lee and Brooklyn’s Jordi Fernandez.

Other coaches who have new jobs entering this season are Mike Budenholzer in Phoenix (a franchise he led Milwaukee past for the 2021 NBA title), along with Kenny Atkinson in Cleveland and JB Bickerstaff in Detroit. Bickerstaff coached the Cavaliers last season and the schedule-makers just happened to have the Pistons as the opponent for Cleveland’s home opener on Friday. Technically, Brian Keefe is a new coach

as well. He finished last season as Washington’s interim coach for the final 39 games, and had the interim tag removed over the offseason.

Half of the league’s coaches — 15 of the 30 — enter this season having completed two years or less with their current clubs.

Key dates to know

Some notable events this season:

— Nov. 2: Miami plays Washington in Mexico City.

— Nov. 4: All 30 teams will be in action, with all start times staggered 15 minutes apart.

— Nov. 5: For the third straight year, no games will be played on Election Day.

— Nov. 12-Dec. 17: The NBA Cup is back for a second season, with the semifinals on December 14 in Las Vegas and the title game there three days later. The Lakers are the defending champions.

— December 25: The Christmas games are San

Antonio at New York, Minnesota at Dallas, Philadelphia at Boston, Lakers at Golden State and Denver at Phoenix.

— January 20: The league celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Among the highlight games are Minnesota at Memphis and Boston at Golden State.

— Jan. 23 and 25: Reigning rookie of the year Victor Wembanyama returns to Paris, with San Antonio taking on Indiana in two games there.

— Feb. 6: The trade deadline.

— Feb. 16: The NBA All-Star Game takes place in San Francisco.

— April 11 and 13: The last two game days of the regular season, with all 30 teams in action both days.

— April 15-18: Play-in tournament, followed by the playoff openers on April 19.

— June 5: The 2025 NBA Finals begin.

$112M DEAL

By BRETT MARTEL AP Sports Writer

NEW Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III has agreed to a four-year, $112 million contract extension, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press yesterday.

Murphy is entering the final season of his rookie contract. Without the extension, he’d have been slated to become a restricted free agent next offseason. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the Pelicans did not announce the extension.

The 24-year-old Murphy, a 2021 first-round draft choice out of Virginia, averaged a career-high 14.8 points last season, when he played in 57 games with 23 starts.

He has shot 39.2% from 3-point range during his three seasons and has shown a knack for slashing to the hoop for the kind of soaring, authoritative dunks that have gotten him a past invitation to the NBA AllStar weekend dunk contest.

Murphy strained his right hamstring during the second practice of Pelicans training camp in Nashville earlier this month.

He is not expected to be ready to play when New Orleans opens the regular season against Chicago on Wednesday.

WASHINGTON

WIZARDS SIGN COREY KISPERT TO A 4-YEAR, $54 MILLION EXTENSION

By STEPHEN WHYNO AP Sports Writer

COREY Kispert and the Washington Wizards have agreed to terms on a fouryear contract extension worth $54 million.

Agents Mark Bartelstein and Andy Shiffman confirmed the agreement in an email to The Associated Press yesterday. Kispert, 25, will make an average of $13.5 million a year when his new contract kicks in for the 2025-26 NBA season. He’s coming off his rookie deal that was worth $16 million total after being selected with the 15th pick in the 2021 draft out of Gonzaga.

The 6-foot-7, 220-pound small forward averaged 13.4 points last season for the Wizards as a part-time starter. He has appeared in 231 games in the league, all with Washington.

ESPN first reported Kispert’s extension.

KEN GRIFFEY SR AND JR HOPING TO SEE LEBRON AND BRONNY MAKE NBA HISTORY

By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports Writer

EL SEGUNDO, Calif.

(AP) — If LeBron James Sr. and his son, Bronny, make NBA history tonight by playing in the same game for the Los Angeles Lakers, Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. will be there to witness it.

The first father-son duo to play together in Major League Baseball plans to be in attendance at the Lakers’ season opener in their downtown arena, where the entire crowd will be hoping the James family

accomplishes the same rare sporting feat for the NBA. “First father and son to play baseball, (and) now the first father and son to play basketball,” the younger Griffey told MLB Network Radio. “It’s a big deal for my dad and I to be there. We made history. Now we get to watch history, so that’s what’s going to be cool about it.”

Bronny James is already excited to make his official NBA debut, but the Griffeys’ presence adds an extra layer of anticipation for the Lakers’ second-round pick. “Yeah,

it’s gonna be insane,” the 20-year-old Bronny said after practice yesterday at the Lakers’ training complex. “I mean, only two families to do it, so it’s going to be a crazy experience, especially (with) what they’ve done.”

Bronny made it clear that he doesn’t know if he’ll actually get to play against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Lakers coach JJ Redick said “nothing has been finalised or anything” about Los Angeles’ playing rotation. Yet it seems unlikely the Lakers will wait to make

the moment of history they’ve been planning ever since the franchise chose Bronny with the 55th overall pick this summer to play with LeBron, the 39-yearold top scorer in NBA history. The father and son already played together in the preseason, first taking the court together outside Palm Springs earlier this month.

A father and son play together roughly once in a generation in North American professional sports. The Griffeys accomplished the feat in 1990 and 1991, playing in 51 games for the

Seattle Mariners — and even homering in the same game September 14, 1990. Tim Raines and his namesake son also played four games together for the Baltimore Orioles at the end of the 2001 season. Before that, Gordie Howe suited up with his sons Mark and Marty in the WHA and the NHL and for Team Canada in the 1970s.

Bronny grew up in his father’s locker rooms and arenas in Cleveland, Miami and Los Angeles, so he’s more than ready to get beyond the historic moment and into the dayto-day grind of becoming a contributing NBA player.

The Lakers begin the season with three home games in five days. “I think it will be different,” Bronny said of the opener. “No different than me getting ready for any other game,

but just a feeling of being in our home arena for the first time and playing a game will be a special experience. ... I’m just trying to come in and get better every day, learn from the guys that have been here before me. Just take it all in and enjoy the experience.”

Bronny played in all six of the Lakers’ preseason games, but his 4.2 points per game average was boosted greatly by his 17-point performance in last week’s preseason finale in which the Lakers and Warriors both rested most of their key players. Bronny hit 29.7% of his shots in the preseason while averaging 1.7 rebounds and 0.3 assists, playing 16.2 minutes per game. His defensive work was praised by Redick, who sees the 6-foot-2 guard becoming a solid perimeter player in the future.

LOS Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Indiana Pacers, Sunday, March 24, 2024, in Los Angeles.

(AP Photo/Etienne Laurent)

KNICKS’ Karl-Anthony Towns (32) celebrates a basket behind Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo (0) during the first half of a preseason game on October 13, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Heather Khalifa)

Jackson throws for 281 yards, 5 TDs to lead streaking Ravens to 41-31 victory over Buccaneers

By FRED GOODALL AP Sports Writer

TAMPA, Florida (AP)

— Lamar Jackson threw for 281 yards and five touchdowns, helping the Baltimore Ravens overcome an early double-digit deficit and extend their winning streak to five games with a 41-31 victory last night over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who lost their top two receivers to injuries.

The two-time NFL MVP improved to 23-1 against NFC teams, the best mark by a quarterback against an opposing conference in NFL history. He’s 3-0 against the Bucs (4-3), who faded after taking a 10-0 lead with help from the 100th TD reception of Mike Evans’ career.

Evans departed with a hamstring injury after Baker Mayfield tried to connect with him in the end zone again, and late in the fourth quarter with the game out of reach, leading Bucs receiver Chris Godwin was carted off the field with a left ankle injury. ESPN declined to show replays of Godwin’s injury, which appeared to be severe.

Jackson completed 17 of 22 passes without an interception, including TD throws of 9 and 4 yards to Mark Andrews. He also tossed scoring passes of 49 yards to Rashod Bateman, 18 yards to Justice Hill and

11 yards to Derrick Henry, who rushed for 169 yards on 15 carries. Bateman had four catches for 121 yards. The Ravens (5-2) rebounded from a slow start on defence, with cornerback Marlon Humphrey turning the game around with a pair of second-quarter interceptions — one of them in the Baltimore end zone. Jackson led a fourplay, 80-yard TD drive after the first pick, and the second interception set up Justin Tucker’s 28-yard field goal for a 17-10 halftime lead.

Mayfield finished 31 of 45 passing for 370 yards, three TDs and two interceptions. Evans joined Hall of Famers Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, Marvin Harrison and Terrell Owens as the only players to have at least 100 TD receptions in the first 11 seasons of a career when he caught a 25-yard scoring pass in the first quarter.

Evans, who missed two days of practice last week with what the Bucs described as a nagging hamstring issue, appeared to aggravate the injury on the scoring reception.

Mayfield nearly connected with him in the end zone again in the second quarter, but this time the ball glanced off Evans’ hands as he and Ravens cornerback Brandon Stephens went to the ground. Evans remained on the turf for several minutes

before being helped to his feet and limping to the locker room. He did not return.

The Bucs played at home for the first time since Hurricane Milton made landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast, causing extensive damage in the Tampa Bay area and along the path it took across the state. The Bucs relocated ahead of the storm to New Orleans, where they practiced for four days before trouncing the Saints 51-7 last week.

The Ravens lead the the NFL with 1,476 rushing yards this season and have run for at least 150 in every game. With 243 on the ground Monday night, they became the fourth team since 1980 to begin a season with at least 1,400 yards in their first seven games. The others are the 1984 Chicago Bears (1,508), 2006 Atlanta Falcons (1,476) and 2019 Ravens (1,429). Henry’s

touchdown catch midway through the fourth quarter made it 41-18. The Bucs scored twice in the closing minutes, including after a successful onside kick, the second time the Ravens have failed to recover an opponent’s onside kick this season. Those late scores gave the Bucs a glimmer of hope that was quickly extinguished when Godwin was hurt while being tackled by Roquan Smith on a 21-yard catch with about a minute left.

Kyler Murray runs for a TD, leads Cardinals to game-winning FG and 17-15 win over Chargers

By DAVID BRANDT AP Sports Writer

GLENDALE, Arizona

(AP) — Kyler Murray ran for a 44-yard touchdown and led the Cardinals on a drive that set up Chad Ryland’s 32-yard field goal as time expired, and Arizona rallied for a 17-15 win over the Los Angeles Chargers last night.

Cameron Dicker kicked his fifth field goal of the night — this one from 40 yards — to give the Chargers a 15-14 lead with 1:54

left. But the Cardinals (3-4) quickly moved into field goal range, aided by an unnecessary roughness call on Cam Hart that cost Los Angeles (3-3) 15 yards. Arizona followed that with a bruising 33-yard run by James Conner, who finished with 101 yards on the ground. That eventually set up Ryland’s short field goal and a Cardinals celebration. It was a frustrating night for the Chargers’ offence, which gained 395 yards but couldn’t find the end zone.

Justin Herbert completed 27 of 39 passes for 349 yards. Dicker booted field goals of 59, 50, 28, 47 and 40 yards, the first of which tied a franchise record for distance.

Murray ran for a spectacular touchdown early in the fourth quarter, rolling to his left before turning on the jets, beating safety Junior Colston to the sideline and then coasting into the end zone for a 14-9 lead. It was Murray’s second long touchdown run in three weeks after he

scored on a 50-yard sprint against San Francisco. It was also Murray’s 20th career game with a touchdown pass and run.

Murray completed 14 of 26 passes for 145 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Dicker’s 28-yarder late in the third quarter gave the Chargers a 9-7 lead. Los Angeles gained possession after stopping Cardinals backup quarterback Clayton Tune on third-and-1 and fourth-and-1. The Cardinals sometimes use Tune

in short-yardage situation because he’s bigger than Murray.

Arizona scored on a 5-yard touchdown pass from Murray to Greg Dortch in the second quarter to take a 7-6 into halftime. It was Dortch’s first touchdown catch of the season.

Dicker made two field goals in the first half for the Chargers, including the 59-yarder. That was the longest kick of Dicker’s career after he previously made two from 55 yards.

By ALANIS THAMES AP Sports Writer

MIAMI GARDENS, Florida (AP) — Tua Tagovailoa does not want to be the face of traumatic brain injuries in the NFL, but he knows that’s the reality confronting him after his latest concussion.

Speaking with reporters yesterday for the first time since being diagnosed with the third concussion of his NFL career, the Dolphins quarterback said he was frustrated by having to sit on the sideline for the past four games, and he was just as aggravated about having to answer questions about his health for the second time in two years.

“Do I want to be known for this? No, I don’t,” Tagovailoa said. “But that’s the cards I’ve been dealt with given the history of it. So it is what it is.”

Tagovailoa said he would not wear a Guardian cap, which is a protective softshell helmet cover that some players have started wearing during games. His teammate, De’Von Achane, wore one on Sunday after being concussed in Week 5.

Tagovailoa has been cleared by medical experts to play football again after he collided with Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin in Week 2 when he ran for a first down and then initiated the contact by lowering his shoulder into Hamlin instead of sliding.

He still technically needs to be cleared from the NFL’s concussion protocol before he returns, which could come after he practices on Wednesday. If everything goes well, coach Mike McDaniel said, the plan is for Tagovailoa to start Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.

“Following the directive and opinion of medical experts, the reason why he’s coming back now is because the medical experts have deemed it safe for him to return,” McDaniel said. “I don’t mess with timelines or try to overcook the forecast. You lean on experts for matters of the career, and that’s what we’re doing here.” Tagovailoa wound up on his back with both hands in the air after the hit against Buffalo on September 12, which happened in the third quarter. Players from both teams immediately waved trainers over and pointed at him as if to suggest there was an injury.

EAGLES SHOW HOW GOOD THEY CAN BE WHEN SAQUON BARKLEY RUNS THE OFFENCE

By DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer

PHILADELPHIA

(AP)

— Saquon Barkley lit up the Giants after fans set his old jerseys ablaze. Jalen Hurts played turnover-free football for a second straight game. Nick Sirianni stuck to calling big plays — like getting scores out of a pair of fourth-down calls — rather than calling out combative fans in the stands.

When the Eagles push aside controversy and sloppy plays, it turns out they can still be a pretty formidable team.

Philadelphia is finding its footing with Barkley playing like the franchise running back the team sorely needed and Hurts — while not at the MVP level he was two seasons ago — protecting the ball and still scoring tush-push touchdowns in a recent hot streak.

Even the defence is playing like, well, a defence finally worthy of causing concern for opposing offences.

And yes, back-to-back wins against NFL bottom feeders Cleveland and the New York Giants may not prove a true measuring stick for Philadelphia’s worth as a serious Super Bowl contender — and more league weaklings are ahead — but confidence

and good habits often come with any kind of winning streak. They’re the kind of ingredients that serve as the mark of any winning team and the Eagles — while clouded by last-season’s epic collapse — can still be one of the best ones in the NFL.

“I love this team,” Sirianni said. There was plenty to love on Sunday against the Giants. Barkley ran for 176 yards and a touchdown in his first, emotional game against his old team. Hurts finished a modest 10 of 14 for 114 yards but scored on two tush-push quarterback sneaks and threw a 41-yard touchdown pass to A.J. Brown. Barkley’s 658 yards rushing in 2024 are the most ever by an Eagles running back through the first six games of a season.

“I think we won convincingly, but we still left some food out there and played with our food, and that’s the beauty of it,” Barkley said. The Eagles (4-2) ended up making the win look easy even as they again were shutout in the first quarter. They are the only team in the NFL that has yet to score in the first quarter this season.

What’s working The pass rush. The Eagles’ defensive line pressured Daniel Jones all game

before the QB was pulled in the fourth quarter. The Eagles had eight sacks and allowed 119 total yards (43 passing, 76 rushing). In the first half, five players had sacks: Nakobe Dean, Jalen Carter, Bryce Huff, Josh Sweat and Nolan Smith. Sweat has a sack in three straight games. Jalyx Hunt earned his first career sack with a strip-sack of Jones in the fourth quarter.

“Felt like we captured some mojo in that pass rush,” Sirianni said. What needs help Special teams continues to be a sore point under

coach Michael Clay. Oren Burks was flagged for an offside penalty on the opening kickoff and the Eagles were hit later in the game with an illegal block. While not as egregious as previous ones, the penalties continued a troubling trend of ill-timed plays. Notably, the Eagles had a punt blocked against New Orleans, muffed a punt against Tampa Bay and had a field-goal attempt blocked and returned for a touchdown against Cleveland. Stock up Nakobe Dean. The Eagles linebacker had two

sacks and led the team with 11 tackles. He had the first full sack of his career.

Stock down Receivers DeVonta Smith and Jahan Dotson. Smith had just one catch for minus-2 yards and Dotson, so far no better with the Eagles than he was as a first-round bust in Washington, was targeted only once and failed to have a catch.

With two catches, Barkley was the only player besides A.J. Brown (five catches, 89 yards and a touchdown) with more than one reception. Yes, the offence was run-heavy

behind Barkley, but the receiving corps outside of Brown has to find a way to get more involved once the schedule get harder.

Injuries RG Mekhi Becton sustained a concussion in the first half and was replaced by Tyler Steen.

Key numbers

20-9 — The Eagles have the second-best road winning percentage (.690) in the league — behind only Kansas City (.741, 20-7) — on the road since Sirianni took over in 2021. The Eagles play two of their next three games on the road.

Next steps

The Eagles’ soft schedule stretch continues with a game Sunday at Cincinnati (3-4). They follow with games against Jacksonville and at Dallas, and neither team has a winning record. The Eagles’ Nov. 3 game against the Jaguars was flexed out of the Sunday night prime-time slot and now will start at 4:05pm.

PHILADELPHIA Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) avoids a tackle from New York Giants safety Jason Pinnock (27) during the third quarter of an NFL football game on Sunday. (AP Photo/ Seth Wenig)

BALTIMORE Ravens cornerback Brandon Stephens (21) breaks up a pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) during the first half last night. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)

We are the champions!

NEW YORK LIBERTY WIN FIRST WNBA

TITLE, MORE COULD BE ON HORIZON

By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer

NEW YORK (AP) — Breanna Stewart joined the New York Liberty two years ago with one goal in mind: to bring the longsuffering franchise it’s first championship.

WNBA Finals MVP Jonquel Jones soon joined her and the pair helped the Liberty accomplish their mission, a year after they suffered a disappointing loss in the Finals to Las Vegas.

“The wait was so, so, so worth it,” Stewart said. “We talked about it two years ago when it was free agency, and we wanted to come together. You look back and me, JJ, (Courtney Vandersloot), we all came together to win a championship. Last year we lost in the Finals. But look at us, now we’re here.”

Now with the core group mostly intact, winning more championships might be in the future for Stewart and the Liberty after Sunday’s 67-62 overtime victory against the Minnesota Lynx in the deciding Game 5 of the WNBA Finals.

She had won two titles before with Seattle, but this was special for her as the only player born in the state of New York on the roster.

“This is more personal because I’m from New York. I’m from upstate,” she said. “I came here for a reason, and that’s to win a championship.”

With Stewart, Jones, Sabrina Ionescu and other key players signed for next year, there’s no reason to think the Liberty couldn’t repeat. “I think it’s been fun. Hey, let’s not stop at

one, though. Let’s go for two,” Liberty coach Sandy Brondello said. “It’s hard to win because this league is so good. You need a little bit of luck on your side, but you also need talent. You also need talent, the right talent to put together.”

It won’t be easy.

The league will look different with the addition of Golden State as a 13th team. They’ll also be squads like Minnesota, Las Vegas and others hungry to knock them off. In the past 20 years, only the Aces have repeated as champions, winning in 2022 and 2023.

This series was a fitting conclusion to a recordbreaking season for the league. All five games came down to the last few possessions and have included two overtime games and a last-second shot, which have led to record ratings.

The five games produced a record attendance for a WNBA Finals.

Many of those New York fans, dying for a championship in a city known for winning titles in other sports, will celebrate at a parade later this week.

It most likely will be in the Canyon of Heroes in downtown Manhattan — right across the bridge from Barclays Center where the Liberty play. Then it’s on to the offseason with the first order of business for the league and players being whether either side will opt out of the current collective bargaining agreement.

They have until November 1 to do it.

For now the Liberty can enjoy their first-ever title. They had been this far five times before, losing each time, including last season’s

defeat. Some of the great Liberty players of the past like Teresa Weatherspoon and Sue Wicks, who came up short in their time of winning a championship, were in the sellout crowd

Sunday to see the team win. “I told her I hope you enjoy this because this is for you,” Vandersloot said she told Weatherspoon.

“You laid the foundation and, you know, sometimes

it doesn’t show right away. I hope she feels appreciated because, you know, she kind of started this and now the city has won and that can never be taken away.”

PLAYERS UNION DECIDES TO OPT OUT OF CURRENT COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT

By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer

NEW YORK (AP) — The WNBA players union has decided to opt out of the current collective bargaining agreement, two years before its expiration. The league and players union had the option to do so before November 1.

The early opt-out marks a crucial juncture for the league. The WNBA signed an historic 11-year media rights deal worth $200 million a year.

The league had record attendance and viewership this year that culminated in the WNBA Finals that saw New York beat Minnesota in overtime on Sunday in a decisive fifth game. “This is a defining moment not just for the WNBA, but for all of us who believe in progress,” WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike said yesterday.

“The world has evolved since 2020 and we cannot afford to stand still. If we stay in the current agreement, we fall behind. This is a new era and we are ready to lead transformational change.”

The league has been skyrocketing, with 2024 marking a huge breakthrough after years of significant and sustained growth. ESPN had huge increases in ratings with viewership in the regular season going up 170%, according to the union.

The current CBA will still cover the 2025 season so the two sides have a year to negotiate a new agreement.

“With the historic 2024 WNBA season now in the books, we look forward to working together with the players and the WNBAPA on a new CBA that is fair for all and lays the foundation for growth and success for years to come,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said.

Bahamians react to Jonquel Jones WNBA Finals MVP, championship win

Bahama native averaged 17.8 points per game, 7.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 56 per cent from the field.

New York Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello said Jones helped the team in a big way in the WNBA Finals.

“I think we need to have a parade in The Bahamas. Really proud of JJ. She was big for us and it wasn’t a pretty game today. We were trying to establish her early but she was at both ends.

“She worked her butt off and usually I do not like to play her 42 minutes but she just stayed competing because that’s how important it was. She knew how she needed to help us. She has been big for us all

season long but in particular these playoffs. She is amazing. We love you JJ, so proud of you mate and you deserve this,” she said. The 2024 Finals MVP has no shortage of accolades under her belt. She is a current WNBA champion, Finals MVP, former WNBA MVP, former Most Improved Player, former WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year, former Commissioner’s Cup champion and MVP as well as a five-time WNBA All-Star.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg congratulated Jones on becoming the first Bahamian to win a WNBA title and Finals MVP.

“History is made once again by our outstanding Bahamian athletes. The historic victory of Jonquel

Jones and the New York Liberty in the WNBA championship fills The Bahamas with immense pride.

“This remarkable achievement has ignited joy and excitement throughout our beautiful islands, especially in Grand Bahama where Jonquel grew up. We celebrate her as the first Bahamian to win the WNBA championship title and to be named the Most Valuable Player of the Finals.

“Her exceptional performance has inspired Bahamians everywhere, highlighting the incredible talent that our nation continues to nurture.

“Jonquel’s determination, skill and sportsmanship shine as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes

throughout The Bahamas. By setting a new standard for excellence in sports, she demonstrates that hard work and perseverance can lead to greatness on the world stage,” he said.

The Grand Bahamian big has always had a strong work ethic since her days of shooting hoops in Holmes Rock under the tutelage of legendary coach Gladstone “Moon” McPhee.

For him, it was no surprise that ‘JJ’ completed her mission.

“I knew she was gonna win the MVP if they won the title. It is a great thing and it is great for our country. I hope it sends a message to all of our leaders, not just the politicians, to invest in our young people,” he said. “She was a worker. She was a very hard

worker and she wanted this. What she did, she wanted it.

“Jonquel never gave up. I worked with Jonquel five o’clock in the morning and she lived in Holmes Rock in the Eight Mile Rock area and she would come meet me at the gym five o’clock in the evening and we would work.

“She and Buddy Hield they went at each other every day from a young age.” His daughter and senior women’s national basketball team head coach Yolett “Coach Yo” McPheeMcCuin echoed the same sentiments.

“I’m incredibly excited for Jonquel. I think she is deserving of it. I remember when she chose to go to New York she told me it was for her to go and win a

championship. I think she is solidifying herself as one of the best players in the league.

“Clinching the MVP is a reward for the work she put in the playoffs and I am incredibly happy for her and I know that The Bahamas is as well. It just goes to show that we have a lot of gems in our little country but we always represent when we get the opportunity,” the national team coach said.

Jones told reporters she hopes to have a celebratory parade in The Bahamas along with her NY Liberty teammates.

The Liberty is expected to have a victory parade to celebrate their first championship in franchise history at 10am on Thursday in the Big Apple.

THE NEW York Liberty pose for a photo with the championship trophy after defeating the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of the WNBA basketball final series on Sunday, October 20, 2024, in New York. (AP Photos/ Pamela Smith)

THE NEW York Liberty hold up the championship trophy after defeating the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of the WNBA basketball final series on Sunday. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith)

NEW York Liberty forward Jonquel Jones warms up before Game 4 of a WNBA basketball final playoff series against the Minnesota Lynx, Friday, October 18, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Elections held for junior councils

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE Local Government Junior Council Programme, now in its second year since its relaunch, successfully attracted three additional schools and executed a smooth electoral process last week.

With 41 schools in the Family Islands, nine in Grand Bahama, and one in New Providence participating, the programme has significantly expanded its reach, engaging a total of 6,540 registered students.

The excitement leading up to election day was palpable, with 476 candidates competing for 103

positions. Open to students from Grade 7-12 in both public and private schools, the initiative aims to foster leadership skills while immersing students in the local government and electoral processes. On election day, polls across participating schools were open from 9am to 3pm, yielding impressive voter turnout numbers.

Campuses buzzed with activity as students prepared to cast their votes, armed with voter cards and eager to elect candidates who could enhance their campus experiences.

In Grand Bahama alone, notable turnout included 120 registered voters for 7th and 11th grade candidates

at Eight Mile Rock High, 281 at Bishop Michael Eldon High for their 7th10th grade candidates, and 200 at Sunland Baptist Academy for Grade 7-9 candidates, among others. Other schools, such as St. George’s High and Jack Hayward Junior High, reported 580 and 392 registered voters, respectively. Additionally, five schools in the Northern Bahamas, including four in Abaco and one in Bimini, joined the electoral process. When the votes were tallied, two schools, one in Grand Bahama and one in Bimini, experienced a tie in one polling division, necessitating a by-election within the next 14 days.

YOUTH MARCH HELD IN GRAND BAHAMA

THE Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture hosted a vibrant Youth March and Rally in Grand Bahama on Sunday, starting at the CA Smith Complex and concluding at Independence Park.

The event, part of the ministry’s ongoing October festivities, gathered youth organisations, schools, church groups, and marching bands from across Grand Bahama.

Deputy Director of Education Michelle Bowleg said: “I’m wearing a button today that says, ‘Every Child Counts,’ which signifies that if you are here today, you count—you matter.”

Ms Bowleg highlighted the positive impact young people

are making in their schools and communities, asserting that their involvement is crucial for a brighter future.

Parliamentary Secretary and Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini Kingsley Smith told youngsters: “You are in your prime, at your most creative and most prolific stage. Don’t underestimate your role and abilities; the next big ideas, the next great solutions and creative plans must come from you.”

The march concluded at Independence Park, followed by a Junkanoo rush out. The next event is a career fair on October 31, at the Grand Lucayan, at 9.30am.

MINISTER

STUDENTS at the RN

Gomez Comprehensive School in the Berry Islands were visited by Vaughn Miller, Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources students during their Junior Council election season and encouraged them to pursue careers in science and environmental fields.

Mr Miller gave students advice on the electoral

process and wished the candidates well, noting the competitive nature of the elections.

With seven positions available but only five winners, he encouraged those who might not win to “keep their heads held high”.

Mr Miller also encouraged them to think critically about their roles in addressing environmental challenges facing the country. He highlighted the significance of pursuing careers in science and environmental fields as many developing countries such as The Bahamas are feeling the negative effects of climate change.

“Global warming and climate change is real,” he said, urging students to consider these disciplines as essential for the future of The Bahamas.

BREEF HOLDS ANNUAL ECO-SCHOOLS WORKSHOP EVENT

BAHAMAS Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) held its annual Eco-Schools Bahamas workshop, bringing together over 60 educators from Abaco, Eleuthera, Grand Bahama, Cat Island, and New Providence.

Aquinas College ecoschools coordinator Raymond Knight delivered a presentation on renewable energy and carbon emissions.

“When we talk about energy consumption, sometimes we ignore the small, small bits but they do add up,” said Mr Knight.

St John’s College (SJC) eco-schools coordinator Kendia Ingraham noted the importance of collaboration during the workshop. “We are so happy to be here, especially to exchange ideas and experiences with the other eco-schools coordinators,” she said.

He urged educators to consider how small changes can accumulate to make a significant impact.

SPORTS

By TENAJH SWEETING

ATHLETES turned in remarkable performances in the William “Knucklehead” Johnson Cross Country Invitational on Saturday at the St Augustine’s College (SAC) school grounds. Hundreds of athletes from high schools and various track clubs came out to compete from the open to under-7 category in honour of Johnson, who is the longest track and field record holder in the men’s 1,500 metres. Hurry Murray once again emerged as the

By TENAJH SWEETING

Grand Bahamian Jonquel “JJ” Jones continues to build on what is already shaping up to be a Hall of Fame career in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).

Jones along with the New York Liberty made history in the Big Apple on Sunday night by clinching their first title in franchise history with a 67-62 victory in the OT thriller against the Minnesota Lynx in game five of the WNBA Finals.

“JJ” single-handedly helped the Liberty to overcome a shaky shooting night with her stat line of a team-high 17 points, six rebounds and one assist. She shot 50 per

PUBLIC

THE National Public Service Week Softball Tournament is slated to be played at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex from

cent from the field and went a crisp 7-for-7 at the charity stripe to be named the 2024 WNBA Finals MVP while picking up her first WNBA title along the way. The Grand Bahamian centre’s path to her first WNBA championship was a true testament of delayed but not denied. Before Sunday’s championship victory, Jones made it to the WNBA’s big dance three times but it was the fourth trip that

would make her ultimate WNBA dream a reality. She spoke with reporters after the game about how it felt to finally add the WNBA crown to her long list of accomplishments. “I am just happy. I am just really happy and I am really just trying to take in the moment and just enjoy every aspect of it. I am just up here smiling and thanking Jesus, thanking my teammates and just enjoying the moment,” Jones said.

When NY Liberty general manager Jonathan Kolb added two former WNBA MVPs in Jones and Breanna Stewart to the roster last season, the goal was to eventually win a chip. Last season, the Libs came up short in their quest against the Las Vegas Aces but, this time around, they pulled it off with Jones leading the charge. The Grand

THE Bahamas Youth Flag Football League has a lot to be proud of after the Bahamas All-Stars 15-and-under (15U) team won their second title in four years at the USA Flag Orlando Cup Tournament hosted in Orlando, Florida over the weekend. The BYFFL fielded 10-and-under (10U), 14-and-under (14U) and 15-and-under (15U) teams. The Bahamas All-Stars 15U team ran through the 16U division in dominant fashion. They won all three of their games played en route to their second championship victory in four years. In the first game of their bracket, the 15U team knocked off the BNA Elite squad 24-0. They followed up this win with a decisive 13-0 victory against the same team. In the championship game, the 15U team