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Volume: 120 No.208, October 31, 2023

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MAN SHOT DEAD AT HARBOUR BAY PLAZA Victim leaving gym as gunmen pulled up and opened fire

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net SCREAMS rang out through the Harbour Bay Plaza last night and tearful family members gathered as a 29-year-old man was shot dead after leaving the gym.

The parking lot of the plaza was filled with scores of bystanders shocked by

the fatal shooting.

One family member believed to be the victim’s grandmother cried out “Let me see my baby, oh please.” She said she had just spoken to the deceased before he went for his regular evening workout at the Macfit 360 gym.

This newspaper understands the victim is SEE PAGE TWO

MINNIS CALLS GOVT PLAN TO SEND troops to Haiti ‘unacceptable’

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis opposes government’s plan to send troops to Haiti, telling parliamentarians yesterday that no officer should risk their lives “on a deployment to a conflict zone with no plan or structure.”

“That is unacceptable,” he said in the House of Assembly. “The men and women of our defence and police forces have mothers and fathers, sons and daughters. Each of their lives is special.”

His comment came after Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis reaffirmed his administration’s SEE PAGE THREE

CROWDS gather at Harbour Bay last night after the fatal shooting of a man as he left a gym.

Photo: Dante Carrer

Police-involved killing of Garth ‘nowHere to Harrison ruled a justifiable homicide go’ for sHanty

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net THE family of Garth Harrison III was stunned after a Coroner’s Court jury ruled yesterday that the 24-year-old’s policeinvolved killing in 2019 was a justifiable homicide.

Harrison was shot near Sequoia Street in Pinewood Gardens on October 25, 2019. Officers DC 3569 Brown and DC 3557 allegedly engaged him and two other suspects in a car chase after they saw them speeding against traffic flow in a red Honda Accord.

During the pursuit, it

was alleged there was a gun fight and Harrison was shot in his stomach.

The chase ended when his car collided with a fence and burst into flames.

Authorities helped rescue the suspects from the burning vehicle before

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said Cabinet has approved the creation of a new House of Assembly building, which will be located at the site of the old post office headquarters on East Hill Street.

He said architects have

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell. Photo: Dante Carrer been briefed and officials are working on a design

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

for the building.

“It will be much better than the quarters for which we are for the staff and for members of Parliament and Senators,” he said, adding that it will be better for the public as well.

“That’s what this is all about,” he said.

“Can we deliver the

RESTLESS residents of the Kool Acres and All Saints Way shanty towns have packed their bags and secured their belongings, ready to leave before the bulldozers arrive.

There is just one problem: they don’t know where to go.

Mercidieu Pierre, 53, reckons his car will become his temporary shelter.

Glaides, 52, believes she will be pushed onto the streets.

Juline Oilbrice, 32, a jobless mother-of-seven, hopes the Ministry of Social Services intervenes or that

SEE PAGE FOUR

SEE PAGE THREE

SEE PAGE FIVE

GOVT SET ON EAST HILL ST FOR NEW PARLIAMENT

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net

RESIDENTS AS EVICTION LOOMS

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

PAGE 2, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Man shot dead at Harbour Bay Plaza from page one

Tennison Chisholm, although police have not officially confirmed his identity.

Press liaison Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings said the victim was leaving the gym before he was shot multiple times.

“As he exited the gym, a light-coloured Japanese vehicle pulled up.

The occupants opened fire on the victim shooting him multiple times.

He seccumbed to his injuries on scene,” CSP Skippings said.

CSP Skippings told reporters the deceased was also shot earlier this year. She said he was on bail for attempted murder.

She noted a detective spoke with the deceased, but he failed to provide the intelligence needed to resolve the conflict he was involved in.

Asked if she believed the victim would have been saved if he wasn’t on bail, she said: “Most definitely.”

She added: “Let me just say how disgusted I am tonight with this particular incident occurring here yet in a shopping

plaza where members of the public traverse on a daily basis. This is unacceptable and this will not be tolerated.”

She called on family members of those who might have weapons, saying: “You know exactly who have the weapons, you know. You know your children have the weapons, you’ve seen the weapons in the home but you are of the notion that these weapons will not be used on you.”

This is the 81st murder for the year, according to The Tribune’s record.

ABOVE the body of a man gunned down outside the gym at Harbour Bay Plaza last night is taken away from the scene. Below a grieving woman believed to be the victim’s grandmother cries to see him while being restrained by police.

Photos: Dante Carrer

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, October 31, 2023, PAGE 3

‘Nowhere to go’ for shanty residents as eviction looms from page one the Davis administration changes its mind.

“I is a PLP,” she whispered to The Tribune yesterday. “I vote for them, so they need to try to help me.”

Successive administrations have pledged to eradicate shanty towns, but for dozens in Kool Acres and All Saints Way, the longstanding threat is more imminent than ever.

The Ministry of Works said Sunday that the 28-day eviction notice residents received earlier this month has ended.

Unlike in the past, there are no immediate signs that the government’s plans will be stymied in courts –– not after Supreme Court Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson ruled that the Minnis administration’s 2018 shanty town eradication policies were legal.

In the House of Assembly yesterday, Works Minister Clay Sweeting outlined the rationale for the government’s actions, saying they will stop developments that could harm people’s health, the environment and the community.

For the government, demolishing homes while avoiding a humanitarian problem could be a daunting challenge.

Only two of nearly a dozen residents The Tribune spoke to yesterday said they are employed, and they claimed they are only temporary workers.

Some residents said many potential rental units are unavailable because they are being renovated.

Others said landlords have strict rules about how many children can live in a space, prohibiting families with more than a few children.

The Tribune could not confirm before press time widespread reports in the communities that the government has granted a five-day grace period and that demolitions would begin on Monday. The Unregulated Communities Task Force, the body managing the process, will host a press conference today.

“Apartments are so expensive,” said Chantal Petitifrere. “And a lot of them, they don’t want no children. Either you have one or two. One bedroom is $800. Not a lot of people in the yard is working.”

Ms Petitifrere said she hasn’t seen anyone move out of the All Saints Way community yet.

Some residents said government workers had not contacted them, but others said “inspectors” had come

around.

Ms Petitifrere claimed an official told her the government would help cover her housing needs for three months if she found a unit.

Among those uncertain about the future is Ketteny Lefrance, the mother of three children who fended for themselves earlier this month after immigration officers posted eviction notices and apprehended people who could not prove they had legal status to be in the country. The children were at school when she was taken. Acting Immigration Director William Pratt later said she didn’t tell officials she had children because she feared they would be repatriated to Haiti.

Ms Lefrance said she spent 17 days in the state’s custody and has not had time to look for new living arrangements. She also said she is unemployed.

She said one thing is sure: she will not return to Haiti.

As The Tribune interviewed her, a man interjected, insisting without proof that multiple children from the community who were repatriated to Haiti had already died and that some of the adults had been kidnapped amid the gang violence and instability there.

RESTLESS residents of the Kool Acres and All Saints Way shanty towns have packed their bags and secured their belongings, ready to leave before the bulldozers arrive.

Photo: Moise Amisial

Minnis calls govt plan to send troops to Haiti ‘unacceptable’ from page one commitment to sending 150 officers to Haiti to help stabilise that country.

Dr Minnis said there are many unanswered questions about the troops’ deployment.

“When the media asks the prime minister about these issues, he has no specific answers,” he added.

“He wants to send Bahamian men and women to a near-war zone and cannot answer questions about the mission. I have grave concerns about this prime minister sending our men and women to a conflict zone without a plan.”

Earlier this month, the United Nations Security Council approved a yearlong multi-national security mission to Haiti that Kenya would lead.

However, a Kenya court has temporarily blocked the government from deploying troops there after petitioners argued that sending officers outside the country is illegal.

It is unclear when the injunction will be lifted and what an indefinite delay means for the multinational force.

National Security Minister Wayne Munroe has said Bahamians would offer training and technical help to the Haitian National Police, suggesting the risk to their lives would be minimal.

Dr Minnis, however, said yesterday that “much of the work of this force is undefined”.

“There is no clear plan as to how peace is to be restored. There is no clear plan as to how the countries within the force are to operate or what the rules of engagement would be.”

“It is unclear which countries will send troops. We do not know, Mr Deputy, how the command of our troops would work within the structure of the overall force.”

Dr Minnis had previously called for a debate on a resolution to send troops to Haiti before officers are sent abroad.

MAN ACCUSED OF SEX WITH 17-YEAR-OLD BOY

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A 44-year-old man was imprisoned accused of having sex with a 17-yearold boy earlier this month.

Senior Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged Leo Rolle with sexual intercourse with the same sex.

Rolle is accused of having sex with the teen

male on October 19 in New Providence.

The accused was told that his case would be transferred to the Supreme Court by a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). The accused will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the higher court grants him bail.

His VBI is set for service on March 11, 2024.

FORMER Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis opposes government’s plan to send troops to Haiti, telling parliamentarians yesterday that no officer should risk their lives “on a deployment to a conflict zone with no plan or structure.”

Photo: Dante Carrer

PAGE 4, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Govt set on East Hill St for new Parliament

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said Cabinet has approved the creation of a new House of Assembly building, which will be located at the site of the old post office headquarters on East Hill Street.

Photo: Dante Carrer

from page one services which the public demands from a building which was delivered in 1815 and has not had one addition to it since? It was designed for three staff, says the clerk. In 1815, this building represented the wealth that then existed in The Bahamas.”

Legislators have long clamoured for a new

parliament building, and the move to build one will likely get bipartisan support.

In 2014, when a parliamentary select committee recommended an increase in salaries for MPs and the construction of a House of Assembly complex, the public reacted bitterly. The plans were then shelved.

Mr Mitchell, however, has frequently called for a new building. Earlier this

year, former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis said the limitations of the current structure “hamper the functioning of Parliament”.

He said the space is inadequate and noted there is only one urinal facility for men and women.

Yesterday, Mr Mitchell said it is time the country had a parliamentary building that reflects modern standards.

RETIRED SUPERINTENDENT CLARENCE RUSSELL

Clarence Russell appointed interim chief passport officer

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net RETIRED superintendent Clarence Russell has been appointed the interim chief passport officer until the government finds a replacement for Kingsley Smith, who resigned to run for political office.

Mr Russell’s appointment took effect yesterday.

“There should be no interruption in the services at the passport office,” said Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell in the House of Assembly.

“Mr Russell has the qualifications. He works for us in Grand Bahama, and it was simply easier for us to do that in the interim.”

Mr Smith resigned as chief passport

officer last week as General Orders require public officers seeking to be elected as a Member of Parliament to do so.

Mr Smith is vying for the West Grand Bahama and Bimini seat.

Mr Mitchell said under Mr Russell’s leadership, he expects the passport office to announce the launch of its digital passport application process.

“Mr Russell will be running that office, and pretty soon, there’ll be a rollout for this function where you’ll be able to apply online for the passports and get an appointment so that you don’t actually have to be standing outside,” he said.

Mr Russell was chief passport officer from 2015 until 2018. He was appointed head of the Department of Immigration in 2018.

EIGHT MILE ROCK ADMINISTRATION BUILDING TO BE NAMED IN HONOUR OF OBIE WILCHCOMBE

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunmedia.net

administrator’s AN complex set to open in Eight-Mile Rock will be named after the late West Grand Bahama and

Bimini MP Obie Wilchcombe, according to Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey.

Mr Wilchcombe’s death in September sent shockwaves throughout the country. He was the MP

for West Grand Bahama and Bimini from 2002 to 2017 and again from 2021 to 2023.

Ms Moxey announced the upcoming honour for him in the House of Assembly yesterday.

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

British Colonial expected to open on December 12 THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, October 31, 2023, PAGE 5

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper said the British Colonial Hotel will open on December 12 with 288 renovated rooms, 300 Bahamian employees and 18,000 sq ft of meeting space.

The iconic hotel closed its doors on February 15, 2022, and has since had more than $100 million done in renovations.

Mr Cooper, the minister for tourism, investments and aviation, noted that the country has had more than 7.2 million visitors for the year, exceeding the total for 2019.

“This is the strongest tourism has ever been in the country,” he said.

Mr Cooper said through September, foreign air and sea arrivals increased by 50.4 per cent compared

DEPUTY Prime Minister Chester Cooper.

Photo: Dante Carrer

to 2022. Cruise arrivals were up 60 per cent over 2022 and 45 per cent over 2019.

Visitors from the United States of America represented 90 per cent of overall arrivals, followed

by Canada and the United Kingdom/Europe.

Mr Cooper said The Bahamas is also seeing

increased traffic from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia, with numbers surpassing those

last year and the year before.

As for visitor trends, he said almost 65 per cent of stopover visitors travelled to The Bahamas for vacation, 16 per cent for weddings and honeymoons, 5.6 per cent to play in the casinos, and 3.5 per cent for business.

“We have some of the most attractive cruise destinations in the region, with the new Port of Nassau making waves on social media and throughout travel sectors,” Mr Cooper said.

He said New Providence, Bimini, the Berry Islands, Half Moon Cay, and other destinations have experienced significant growth in cruise arrivals in the past two years, with more tourists coming off ships and spending more money and time on shore.

He said room rates are 60 per cent higher than in 2019.

Police-involved killing APPEAL FOR FINANCIAL AID AS COST OF LIVING of Garth Harrison ruled RISE IMPACTS THE RANFURLY HOME FOR CHILDREN a justifiable homicide

GARTH HARRISON III from page one taking Harrison to the hospital, where he died of his injuries.

Harrison’s official cause of death was listed as a gunshot wound to the pelvis, which caused extensive bleeding to his abdominal cavity.

One of the two other passengers pulled from the crash escaped on foot.

A burned 9mm pistol and magazine were allegedly recovered from the scene.

The family of the deceased maintains that Harrison was unarmed at the time of the incident.

K Melvin Munroe, who represented the officers, argued that Harrison was caught in the crosshairs of friendly fire and was shot from the front by one of his accomplices. Mr Munroe said his clients were responsible for no wrongdoing and helped the suspects after their car crashed.

Calvin Seymour, who represented the deceased’s estate, claimed there was no firearm near Harrison at the time of the incident and that the man held his hands up after police retrieved him from the wreck. He called his death an unjustified execution.

Maneiko Marshall, the deceased’s uncle, told The Tribune after the verdict that the family was not satisfied with the results. He claimed authorities intentionally failed to conduct a ballistic report because it would have shown foul play.

“The verdict today don’t make no sense,” he said, adding police did not show

evidence why his nephew was shot.

“They couldn’t tell how much bullets was fired from the gun,” he said. “They didn’t do no ballistic test, no nothing.”

The jurors could have returned a result of homicide by manslaughter, homicide by murder or an open verdict.

Acting Coroner Kara Turnquest-Deveaux presided over the inquest.

Angelo Whitfield marshalled the evidence.

THE RANFURLY Home for Children located on Mackey Street.

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net INFLATION is making it harder for the Ranfurly Homes for Children to function.

The orphanage is appealing for financial assistance.

Ingrid Deveaux, the home’s administrator, estimated yesterday that between $200,000 to $300,000 is needed to sustain the home while it awaits funding from its usual donors.

She said inflation and the rising cost of living make it difficult for the home to survive monthly, estimating that expenses have increased by 30 per cent.

The private home receives a government stipend that covers 18 to 20 per cent of its annual costs.

“That is not nearly enough to cover our costs,” Ms Deveaux said, “so we rely heavily on private donors, NGOs, local and international, to see us through to each year.”

“You’re dealing with kids, young people. They eat, they wear, and they grow. You know, we just want to be certain that we have what we need to keep the doors open and not only keep the doors open, keep our services that we provide to our children at a certain standard.”

“That’s really what our main focus is on, you know, providing the best care possible for the children and our residence here at Ranfurly.”

Ms Deveaux said the

home’s current needs go beyond improving its property or services.

“This one is a little bit more different because, like I said, the support from some of our donors and sponsors has been delayed,” she said.

“We just need to be certain that we’re able to do what it is we need to do for the children. So we’re appealing to the public to come forward and assist us.”

There are 22 children in the home’s care.

PAGE 6, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

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Greenhouse gas reporting a must in California MANY of the world’s largest public and private companies will soon be required to track and report almost all of their greenhouse gas emissions if they do business in California – including emissions from their supply chains, business travel, employees’ commutes and the way customers use their products.

That means oil and gas companies like Chevron will likely have to account for emissions from vehicles that use their gasoline, and Apple will have to account for materials that go into iPhones.

It’s a huge leap from current federal and state reporting requirements, which require reporting of only certain emissions from companies’ direct operations.

And it will have global ramifications.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed two new rules into law on Oct. 7, 2023. Under the new Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, U.S. companies with annual revenues of US$1 billion or more will have to report both their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions starting in 2026 and 2027. The California Chamber of Commerce opposed the regulation, arguing it would increase companies’ costs. But more than a dozen major corporations endorsed the rule, including Microsoft, Apple, Salesforce and Patagonia.

The second law, the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act, requires companies generating $500 million or more to report their financial risks related to climate change and their plans for risk mitigation.

As a professor of economics and public policy, I study corporate environmental behavior and public policy, including whether disclosure laws like these work to reduce emissions. I believe California’s new rules represent a significant step toward mainstreaming corporate climate disclosures and potentially meaningful corporate climate actions.

Most of the companies covered by California’s climate disclosure rules are multinational corporations. They include technology companies such as Apple, Google and Microsoft; giant retailers like Walmart and Costco; and oil and gas companies such as ExxonMobil and Chevron.

Many of these large corporations have been preparing for mandatory disclosure rules for several years.

Close to two-thirds of the companies listed in the S&P 500 index voluntarily report to CDP, formerly called the Carbon Disclosure Project. CDP is a nonprofit that surveys companies on behalf of institutional investors about their carbon management and plans to reduce carbon emissions.

Many of them also face reporting requirements elsewhere, including in the European Union, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Singapore and cities like Hong Kong.

Moreover, some of the same U.S. companies, notably banks and asset managers that operate or sell products in Europe, have already started to comply with the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation. Those regulations require companies to report how sustainability risks are integrated into investment decision-making.

While California isn’t the first place

A LONE tree stands in shallow waters at Harbour Island.

to mandate climate disclosures, it is the fifth-largest economy in the world. So, the state’s new laws are poised to have substantial influence worldwide. Subsidiaries of companies that didn’t have to report their emissions before will now be subject to disclosure requirements. California is in effect exercising its immense market leverage to establish climate disclosures as standard practice in the U.S. and beyond.

California also has a history of being a test bed for future federal U.S. policies.

The U.S. government is considering broader emissions reporting requirements. But California’s new rules go further than either the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s proposed corporate climate disclosure rules or President Joe Biden’s proposed disclosure rules for federal contractors.

The most controversial part of the new disclosure rules involves scope 3 emissions. These are emissions from a company’s suppliers and its consumers’ use of its products, and they are notoriously difficult to track accurately.

California’s new emissions reporting law directs the California Air Resources Board, which will develop the regulations and administer them, to allow some leeway in scope 3 reporting as long as the reports are made with a reasonable basis and disclosed in good faith.

It’s also important to note that at this point the disclosure laws don’t require companies to cut these emissions, only to report them. But tracking scope 3 emissions does highlight where companies could pressure suppliers to make changes.

The plethora of climate disclosure mandates globally suggest that policymakers and investors around the world perceive climate disclosures as driving actions that protect the environment.

The big question is: Do disclosure rules actually work to reduce emissions?

My research shows that voluntary carbon disclosure systems like CDP’s that focus on reporting corporate sustainability outputs, such as having science-based emissions targets, tend not to be as effective as those that focus on outcomes, such as a company’s actual carbon emissions.

For example, a company could earn an A or B grade from CDP and still increase its entitywide carbon emissions, notably when it does not face regulatory pressure.

In contrast, a recent study of the U.K.’s 2013 disclosure mandate for U.K.-incorporated listed firms found that companies reduced their operational emissions by about 8% relative to a control group, with no significant changes to their profitability. When companies report their emissions, they can gain important knowledge about inefficiencies in their operations and supply chains that weren’t evident before.

Ultimately, a well-designed disclosure program, whether voluntary or mandatory, needs to focus on consistency, comparability and accountability.

Those traits allow companies to demonstrate that their climate pledges and actions are real and not just a front for greenwashing.

Lily Hsueh, Arizona State University

Chairman and leader are one EDITOR, The Tribune.

POLITICS, at its core, isn’t just about individual personalities, it’s about the collective vision, strategies, and objectives they represent. As the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) approaches its convention and subsequent by-election, the interplay of these politics is vividly clear.

The leader’s unwavering support for chairman Fred Mitchell is not a mere endorsement of an individual. It is a clear and decisive statement about the Leader’s own vision and strategy for the party for winning the by-election. The two are inextricably linked: to support Fred is to support the leader’s foresight and direction for PLP’s political success. Therefore, any challenge or vote against Fred, especially at such a pivotal juncture, is tantamount to a challenge against the very essence and wisdom of the leader himself.

Robyn Lynes’ decision to enter the fray for the chairmanship, particularly during this critical period, not only jeopardises the party’s unity but also sends mixed messages about the party’s direction. This isn’t merely about the chairmanship; it’s about the

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net very leadership and future direction of PLP. If Lynes were to contest and succeed against Fred, it would not only disrupt the party’s unified front, but also directly undermine the leader’s plan to win West Grand Bahama and Bimini.

When the top brass of the party, both the leader and the deputy leader, back Fred Mitchell, it is a tacit understanding that the chairman and the leader are one, united in strategy and purpose. To diverge from this shared vision, as Lynes proposes, would be to ignore the foundational strategy laid out by the party’s leadership. This, more than anything else, underscores the urgency and importance of the message: a vote against Fred is unequivocally a vote against the leader.

It’s crucial, as the convention and by-election loom, for every PLP member to understand the stakes.

Individual ambitions must take a backseat to collective unity and vision. Any distractions, especially those that challenge the Leader’s strategy, can only

serve to weaken the party’s prospects.

The logic behind her decision to contest the chairmanship in this crucial period appears flawed. At a time when the party’s bandwidth should be exclusively dedicated to the impending election, Lynes is attempting to divert it towards a potentially heated leadership skirmish. For those arguing that the party can juggle both these challenges simultaneously, history and practicality suggest otherwise.

Lynes’ decision to relinquish her seat as deputy chairman without a clear transition path has inadvertently exposed her to political vulnerability. Such a move, devoid of foresight, might result in her bearing a disproportionate share of the blame if PLP doesn’t succeed in the by-election, given the diversion she has initiated and failure to win removes her from the leadership.

It’s imperative for the party to recognize and understand that a vote against Fred is not merely a change in chairmanship; it is a rejection of the leader’s strategy to win a by-election.

THE GATEKEEPER Nassau, The Bahamas October 30, 2023

We need you, Fred Mitchell EDITOR, The Tribune.

IF WE have to march on Bay, we will do just that. We want you. You have a proven record to show the youth, under privileged, the elderly, etc. We want you, Mr Fred Mitchell, no ands, ifs or buts.

Best of luck at the polls. You are the best man for the job.

I have yet to see the man and/or woman who can hold a candle to you. Fred is a people’s person and has the necessary leadership skills for the job. There is yet to have someone surface from the deep to take his place, the man or woman for his post is yet unborn, who can hold a candle to him.

Mr Mitchell is welleducated, well-dressed, handsome and has the necessary exposure for the job. He is the people’s man and the

baby to the breast can attest to his abilities, know-how and his proven leadership and the record speaks for itself.

As programmes chairman back in the early to late 90s I was elated as programmes chairman of Kiwanis sponsored youth circle K and invited this learned man to speak to the students body of circle K - Kiwanis sponsored youth adults of Bahamian soil, we say the honourable Fred Mitchell is the man for the job. No ands, or buts, or maybe, etc. We have made up our mind. He has a proven track record and that’s the end of the story.

Mr Mitchell, you have the young people behind you, the elderly, the baby at the breast, those who cannot

speak for themselves, etc.

We have your back. Continue the good works you are doing as a proven leader should do. In this Bahamian society we love you and always will. You are the man for the job.

Hold your head up high, stick your chest up and out and do what you have to do.

The people have spoken.

The competition cannot hold a candle to you and that’s the end of the long story.

Best of luck and do what you have to do. You are the man for the job; no ands, ifs or buts.

LOXSLEY LONFORD BASTIAN Former programmes chairman, circle K club, Kiwanis sponsored youth programmes.

October 30, 2023

Abaco waste management sites would cost over $10m to restore THE TRIBUNE

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net MYLES Laroda, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, said it would cost more than $10m to restore two waste management sites in Abaco that have become health hazards.

He said the government spends $550,000 a month to maintain the sites.

Mr Laroda, the minister responsible for disaster preparedness, management and reconstruction, said the Davis administration was saddled with the sites, which are in

Tuesday, October 31, 2023, PAGE 7

Treasure Cay and Spring City.

The Spring City site was the storage and waste management site after Hurricane Dorian, but Mr Laroda said there were no provisions or tarp to protect the area, causing the water tables to become contaminated.

He said the cost of running one site is around $350,000 a month, and the cost of running the other site is $200k a month.

He said it would cost more than $10m to restore the sites to their preDorian conditions.

“We just cannot leave them there,” he said.

BAHAMAS NATIONAL STATISTICAL INSTITUTE TO PRODUCE QUARTERLY REPORTS ON UNEMPLOYMENT RATES

CARICOM members at a conference for statisticians at Sandals yesterday.

Photo: Moise Amisial

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net BAHAMAS National Statistical Institute acting managing director Nerissa Gibson said the institute will start releasing data on unemployment rates quarterly, twice more than it has traditionally done.

She made the comment after the opening ceremony of a CARICOM meeting of statisticians yesterday.

The meeting, which is held every year in a different country, will be held until November 3.

Ms Gibson said the government has been making increasing demands of the institute, requesting more data.

“We have been conducting the monthly surveys, I think, for the past three months, and so we should be coming out with quarterly estimates, I would say, like in early December,” she said. “Then thereafter we will be producing and publishing what are the unemployment rates.”

She said officials are working to finalise the 2022 Census, the preliminary report for which was released in April.

MAN CHARGED WITH KILLING VALENTINO MCKENZIE LAST WEEK

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday accused of killing a 21-year-old man who was on bail for firearm charges.

Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley charged Desmond Gilbert, 28, with murder.

Ian Cargill represented the accused.

Gilbert used crutches during his arraignment.

Along with an accomplice, he allegedly shot and killed Valentino McKenzie as the man stood outside his house on First Street

in Coconut Grove on October 21. The suspects reportedly fled the scene in a silver coloured Japanese vehicle.

At the time of his death, McKenzie had pending charges for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

The accused was told that his case would be transferred to the Supreme Court by a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). The accused will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the higher court grants him bail.

His VBI is to be served on February 8, 2024.

MAN WHOSE PASSENGER DIED IN ABACO CAR CRASH CHARGED

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was charged yesterday with causing the death of a passenger in a car crash in Abaco this summer.

Assistant Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain charged Stanley Vanzeylen, Jr, 27, with vehicular manslaughter.

Stanley was allegedly driving a blue coloured Nissan Cube with four passengers west on Ernst Dean Highway when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a utility pole around 6pm on August 28.

While the driver and three of his passengers were

successfully treated for their injuries, Romeo Wallace, a rear-seat passenger, was pronounced dead by emergency medical services.

The accused claims he had to swerve to avoid a wild hog crossing the road. He also says he does not remember much of the incident because he suffered a concussion.

The accused was informed that the matter would proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

Stanley’s bail was set at $7,000 with two sureties.

His VBI is set for service on February 2, 2024.

Milton Cox represented the accused.

In September, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said police have been asked to investigate the construction of a hurricane shelter in Abaco, which has ballooned from $1.8m to $4m.

Yesterday, Mr Laroda said: “If you go into Abaco, you see the shelter that is being built there, and that only two years of us coming into government and to see that a structure that has started so long ago only to be restarted again because of the defective and faulty works that was done.”

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER MYLES LARODA

PAGE 8, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

A recipe for success for students

THE TRIBUNE

“Everything that you are and will be is already with you”

CHEF AMUNET, also known as Tesha Fritz-Eneas, has found a recipe for success in coaching students of Akhepran International Academy for the Bahamas Young Chef Competitions AKHEPRAN International Academy is emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the junior culinary world. Students are gaining national attention with creative, scrumptious, health conscious Bahamian dishes. This month, Akeelah Maura, an eighth grade student at Akhepran, won the 31st Bahamas Young Chef New Providence District Inter-Island Culinary Competition. Akhepran’s senior scholar, Judah Seymour, claimed the top prize in the New Providence District in the Senior category. Both of these young chefs will be ones to watch in November’s national finales.

Last year, ten-year-old Akhepran student Amina Eneas made history by becoming the youngest student to ever enter and win the Bahamas Junior Young Chef competition for New Providence in its 30-plus year history. Also in 2022, Amina’s schoolmate Sia Wright became the New Providence District Winner for 2021 and 2022 and placed 3rd for the Nationals in 2021.

While accolades came pouring in for Akhepran and its rock solid culinary arts programme, the school credited the success to Culinary Instructor/ Coach Chef Amunet, who has been guiding the young chefs at Akhepran for about six years.

She helps the youngsters to bring out their gifts in the kitchen and wow the judges with their meals - all underpinned by the values of healthy eating and cultural preservation.

Face to Face

By FELICITY DARVILLE

“My experience working with the young chefs is an amazing experience,” Chef Amunet said.

“These young chefs are eager to learn, passionate in the kitchen and they all have come with some home based cooking experience, and that is what I love. This shows that they have that deep innate passion and love for food and cooking.”

Akhepran’s junior scholar Akeelah Maura prepared a Grand Bahamian dish of banana pannycake and fish for her recent win. In AIA’s in-house competition, she presented the banana pannycake with an Asian fusion of sesame crusted tuna.

“What set Akeelah apart from the other in-house competitors was her creativity,” Chef Amunet said.

“When choosing a scholar to represent Akhepran, as a chef, creativity, willingness to learn and how she/he is able to maneuver or flow in the kitchen under pressure is key in preparing for this competition. We were able to assist Akeelah Maura in fine tuning her dish to suit the Bahamas Young Chef Competition theme “Bahamian Cuisine, Our Flavour Profile, Our Food Culture, Our Identity”. So she was able to win the judges over

in the New Providence district round with banana pannycake w/ snapper fillet topped with pickled onions and a spiced hibiscus syrup and a guava duff-inspired guava rice pudding créme brulee. “ Akhepran’s competitor in the senior division, Judah Seymour, became the senior New Providence district winner with his vegan stuffed cabbage filled with coconut peas ‘n rice, fried coconut fish topped with coleslaw and plantain and with his breadfruit and guava jubilee twist drizzled with soursop icing - all inspired by traditional Bahamian fried fish, peas ‘n rice, coleslaw and fried plantains and a family favorite pastry, Model Bakery’s twist.

“Judah was able to blend Bahamian traditional food staples effortlessly in both the in-house and New Providence district competitions,” Chef Amunet said.

“I am truly excited to assist them in elevating themselves creatively and guiding them to present mind blowing flavor profiles, original dishes and top notch plating presentations.”

Whereas Chef Amunet’s students do not have to present vegan dishes to the competition, what is so

weight loss programs; cooking classes; and catering. She also has a brand of vegan foods called Nature’s Vegan Delights, which produces items such as frozen vegan burgers, meatballs, sea moss gels, CHEF Amunet has been coaching students at Akhepran for six years. In this pancakes and photo taken years ago two of her students, her daughter Amina and Sia Wright granola - all would go on to culinary success. Amina is the current Junior Bahamas Young freshly made.

Chef national title holder, and Sia was the senior champion for New Providence Nature Soul in 2021 and 2022 Food, she said, exciting is that many of their woven together like a beau- is a sustainable company entries are vegan, prov- tiful tapestry that displays that provides nutritional, ing that native Bahamian divine gifts that I cannot health and wellness prodplant dishes can taste even hold unto myself,” she ucts and services.

Chef Amunet has found better than their traditional shared. preparations.

“Talents and gifts are to be a calling that allows her to “Because I have been shared purposefully and to extend her passion and purpreparing vegan food for assist others in this journey pose beyond just her home 20-plus years, it is so natu- called life. Each year in pre- and the school at which she ral to fall in love with young paring the junior and senior works. She is a part of the chefs who love vegan food,” scholars in the Bahamas Bahamas Healthy Lifestyles she said.

Young Chef competitions, Team where members edu“Gone are the days where I am able to harness the cate, inspire and empower vegan food is considered love, passion and creativity people to make healthier ‘rabbit food’. The young from within each of them lifestyle choices and advochefs light up in the kitchen and assist them with skill- cate for better health in the when they can learn to take ful techniques, guidance Bahamas. their favorite vegan dish and and support to ensure that “We are presently moving elevate it in flavor and pres- they are well-equipped to through preschools, primary entation. It is like a whole compete confidently and schools and other places to new world has opened up competitively.” educate young school chilfor them because not only Although her specialty dren, teachers, staff and can they express their ‘true’ is vegan/plant-based food administration on healthy selves as vegans/ plant based preparation, she has also habits and assisting schools lovers, but they are able to been trained, reared and to adopt water days to assist showcase these specialty exposed in preparing other in reducing the intake of meals as if they are present- meats and foods, pastries high sugary drinks which ing or cooking in a five-star and more. When her daugh- affects brain health and restaurant.” ter Amina was victorious in increases the risk of child “At Akhepran, there are last year’s Bahamas Young obesity,” she said. only a handful of ‘vegan’ Chef Competition, Chef “We, along with members scholars. However in the Amunet saw all her hard of the Healthy Bahamas classroom, the non-vegan work, and the path she took Coalition and the Healthy scholars, too, are amazed as a young girl, come full Caribbean Coalition. We are that they can take some of circle. currently working on raising the usual vegetables that “I truly give credence awareness about Octagonal they may have not enjoyed to my father (deceased), High-In Front of package and begin to enjoy them Mr Theophilus Fritz, my warning labels. Front of when presented in a most mother (deceased) Doris package warning labels are dynamic, flavorful and crea- Taylor-Collins and of course labels or seals applied to the tive way.” the ‘mother’ who raised me, front of packaged products Chef Amunet’s success in Lorena Adderley - all of which allows consumers to cooking has been decades whom worked in the food quickly, correctly, and easily in the making. She grew up and restaurant industry for identify when a product conwith her father in a large many years,” she said. family who loved cooking.

“Thanks to my mentor, tains excessive amounts of “My father owned a top Dr Jacinta Higgs, my hus- nutrients, such as salt, sugar, restaurant where I abso- band Dr Cleveland Eneas and fats.”

This busy chef, wife, lutely loved spending time in III, Mrs Rhonda Wright, the kitchen being mesmer- Dr AJ Varmah, and many mother and spiritual leader ised by the food ingredients others who believe in me still finds time to give back and food preparations, and and push me to greatness in in another special way. She founded an organisation watching the chefs move all that I do.” skillfully and intently - espe“It is said that ‘every- called Sacred Butterflies cially in presentations,” she thing that you are and will for young girls between recalls. be is already with you’. This 7-17 who have experienced “These times I never statement reflects every- trauma of sexual abuse, bulknew would have unknow- thing that I am and what lying, rape, sexual violence ingly ignited and prepared we do at Akhepran Interna- and other social ills.

“Our team has formume for what I do today at tional Academy. Education: Akhepran, in my food busi- educate-educare: to draw or lated school programmes ness Nature Soul Food, and bring out. We draw out the to empower our young girls the many other aspects of gifts, passion, and purpose in healing and transforming who I am.” of the scholars within the themselves and their lives to lead a successful thriving life Chef Amunet, also known classrooms.” as Tesha Fritz-Eneas, is a Outside of the walls of after trauma.”

Herr recipes in the woman who wears many Akhepran, Chef Amunet different hats. She is a chef, runs a food business - kitchen are truly a reflection culinary instructor, food Nature Soul Food - which of her recipes for life - rich business owner, fashion and merges two of her great- ingredients of love and faith, jewelry designer, health est passions: helping others preparation and hard work, and wellness coach,doula/ heal and cooking. She is resulting in rich rewards birth worker, mother of five able to use nutrition and to be enjoyed. Contact amazing children, wife to Dr her culinary expertise in Chef Amunet at Facebook: Cleveland W Eneas III and one platform. The company Nature Soul Food; Instaalso an Min Id Vizier (Asso- offers an array of nutritional, gram: naturesoulfood2426; naturesoulfood@ ciate Pastor) at The Holy health and wellness prod- email: Qubtic Church. ucts and services, including gmail.com or WhatsApp “Each hat is intricately meal prep; detox programs; (242) 810-9628.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, October 31, 2023, PAGE 9

English wine on show?

We’ll drink to that THERE has been so much publicity about the Israeli-Gaza war that most people will be aware that it has moved to another deadly phase as the Israeli bombardment of Gaza intensifies and tanks and troops have also now crossed into the territory.

The humanitarian situation has worsened and, in reaction, pro-Palestinian rallies are being held around the world.

As this terrible conflict develops and conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate, the media coverage will doubtless remain comprehensive. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is quoted as saying that “this will be a long war”. So it might be helpful to comment about specific aspects of the crisis as the situation demands.

However, having written about the subject in my last two columns, today I should like to change direction and look at something completely different which I hope will be of interest locally; namely, “English Wine Week” which has come to The Bahamas to celebrate the world’s best wines, some of which are now produced in the UK. At this year’s 25th International Cultural Wine and Food Festival held last weekend, which has returned after a three-year hiatus during the COVID19 pandemic, the British High Commission hosted the “Great British Wine

The Peter Young column Bar”. By all accounts, this proved very popular with participants at the festival and was rapidly sold out as many visitors to it were surprised at just how good the wines were.

In writing about this today - in the face of scepticism amongst some people concerning the quality of English wines - I found it interesting to do a little research into the background, since, although the UK reportedly ranks as high as fifth in the world for overall wine consumption, it is nowhere near that in terms of wine production.

Nonetheless, according to one wine historian I came across, wine making in the country goes back a very long time – in fact, to the Romans who introduced viticulture during their

conquest and occupation of Britain and established vineyards there as early as 43BC. History shows that, for a host of reasons, there was subsequently a gap in wine making of several centuries until the 1950s, with the first commercial English vineyard opening in 1955. Later, vineyards have become a common sight in counties in the south of England due to the drier and warmer climate there than elsewhere in the country and, more recently, as a result of climate change and global warming. As viticulture has developed, it is now claimed that England has become a significant new force in the wine world, producing world-class sparkling wines and exciting dry wines, winning awards and earning well-deserved recognition across the world.

English Wine Week at the Wine and Food Festival was organised by the British High Commission’s wine and spirits adviser, Steven Boon (Wine and Spirits Guys) who is a Bahamian.

It was preceded by a week of tasting events with the “Who’s Who” of the Bahamian hospitality business, including Atlantis, Baha Mar, Graycliff, the Ocean Club, the Lyford Cay Club, Albany Luxury Resort, Caribbean Wines and Spirits, Jimmy’s Wines and Spirits and Commonwealth Brewery.

It appears to have been a considerable achievement

A TIME TO REFLECT AND TAKE STOCK EACH year by the end of October, many feel confident that The Bahamas has been spared a hurricane – if that is indeed already the case – because by November the season to all intents and purposes is over. However, people say “don’t put mouth on it” because fate may just intervene.

Living in The Bahamas, one soon learns that the official hurricane season is the beginning of June to the end of November. While not pretending to be any sort of expert, my wife and I have also learnt that the peak period is August to October. Our experience of more than 20 years here is that nothing much happens in November even though officially the season extends to the end of next month.

The only major one we recall in that last month of the season was Hurricane Michelle which hit New Providence as a Category 4 storm on November 4, 2001

while “Noel” also moved through the archipelago on November 1, 2007. Of course, with abnormal weather conditions around the world in the midst of climate change and global warming, no one can be sure. But a check of the National Hurricane Centre’s website shows that at the time of writing there is nothing serious lurking in the Atlantic apart from some areas of low pressure that are unlikely to form into anything threatening.

So, here’s hoping that this year we have, indeed, been spared!

In such an optimistic frame of mind, this time of year also induces a mood of quiet reflection as the calmness of autumn takes over and nature prepares for the hibernation of winter while in the Fall the rich colours of the native trees in North America are said to be unsurpassed elsewhere in the world.

In the Northern Hemisphere, as the leaves begin to drop and cooler weather takes over, the fireside begins to beckon and the clocks go back an hour, I was tempted to look at the history books to discover what of importance happened in the world in the past which might have shaped its future, during the month of October. But the list was far too long to single out any apart from three that caught my eye; namely, Columbus made his first landfall in the New World in The Bahamas in October, 1492, the Cuban missile crisis, which nearly resulted in another world war, was in October, 1962, and – interestingly, given what is now happening in the Middle East - the Yom Kippur War, when Egypt and Syria launched an attack on Israel, started in October, 1973.

So perhaps the month of October is not really a time of quiet and reflection

A rugby world cup to relish WITHOUT attempting any sort of informed analysis of the men’s Rugby World Cup (RWC) in France which ended last weekend with the narrowest of victories in the final for the holders, South Africa, over the New Zealand All Blacks, it is safe to say that the whole event was an enormous success. Amidst what was apparently impressive organization, there was so much play of high quality which demonstrated the skills of players acrossthe-board that it would be invidious to pick out specific examples. Suffice it to say that the tournament constituted a wonderful showcase for the sport of rugby.

Commentators are saying that the RWC is now regarded as the world’s third biggest sporting event behind the FIFA football World Cup and the Olympic Games. The tournament attracted record attendances in super-sized stadiums and it will be interesting to learn in due course of the financial impact after the RWC in Japan in 2019 was said to be the most economically successful in World Cup history.

South Africa’s back-toback victory, after defeating England in the final in 2019, means the Springboks have emerged triumphant in the RWC for the fourth time

which is more than any other country. But on Saturday they beat New Zealand by only 13-12 which was the thinnest of margins - and this was the third time they won in this tournament by a single point. So their matches have been very tight and could have gone either way – not least, of course, their wonderful match against the hosts, France. Most people agree that the key to South Africa’s success is their physicality and reliance on a tight defence, discipline and mastery of the set-pieces (scrums and line outs), together with flawless goal kicking by the ever reliable Handre Pollard.

Last Saturday’s final was packed with drama as the match went right down to the wire. It seemed to me that the commentators did not emphasize sufficiently that for much of the match the All Blacks were down to 14 men. In the 27th minute, their captain, Sam Cane, was given a yellow card for a high tackle. On review, this was increased to a red card so he took no further part in the match and the All Blacks were a man short for the rest of it. For the last quarter, in particular, they were faced with the herculean task of keeping the Springboks at bay and even had a chance of victory through a penalty

opportunity that slid just wide of the posts.

My own view is that the original decision of a yellow card for New Zealand’s captain was unnecessarily harsh since his action looked to be over-eager rather than malicious and it was clearly unintended. So was the referee’s decision over-zealous, particularly in a World Cup final, since it spoilt the match as a genuine contest? But, the record books show that in the end South Africa won and quite rightly will be relishing their victory.

Overall, congratulations are surely due to France for staging such a successful event. There can be no doubt that the game of rugby is in good shape around the world and it is appreciated by more and more people as the fine sporting spectacle it undoubtedly provides.

Meanwhile, matches at the international level will continue, not least the Six Nations tournament in Britain in the coming winter followed by various tours.

The next RWC, due to take place in Australia in 2027, will soon beckon – and, without doubt, that is a prospect which more and more people in many different countries will look forward to with eager anticipation.

to have gathered together at these events some of the most important buyers in the Caribbean – and it was reported that these experts were surprised at the high quality of, in particular, the English sparkling wines now available.

To impress on them how good English wine now is, Steven Boon arranged for Giles Cooper, who is one of the world’s most influential wine buyers, to lead a wine tasting event. It is said that, while winning international awards, English wines have beaten similar French wines in blind tastings. Furthermore, some of them are now served at Buckingham Palace as the wine of choice for royal events.

In the words of Steven Boon: “What a successful week. I have had the most amazing response from all whom we invited to taste English wine. I really feel that this event was the moment the food and beverage trade was introduced to English sparkling wine – in ten years’ time when English wine is on every menu in every hotel, we will all remember this moment.”

For his part, High Commissioner Thomas Hartley said: “Hot on the heels of the first Bahamian rum being sold in London, I am very excited we’re seeing the first English sparkling wines in Nassau!

The response from some of the Caribbean’s biggest and best buyers was

‘It is said that, while winning international awards, English wines have beaten similar French wines in blind tastings...’

overwhelming – none could believe how good the English wines are, and it won’t be long until we see these wines in every hotel, every bar and every home. I am glad so many people have been surprised; and now see things differently about English wine.”

Thus, overall this was

clearly a most interesting and successful occasion and series of events. Many will wish those concerned the best of luck in consolidating such a good start by ensuring these high quality English wines become widely recognised and sought after in such a lucrative local market.

as the end of another year approaches with Halloween around the corner, followed

by Remembrance Day and the annual Thanksgiving celebrations while Germany is famous for its annual festival in celebration of Bavarian culture known as Oktoberfest – an occasion with a well-known emphasis on consuming beer in vast quantities.

All that said, for so many people the month of October is still surely a time for appreciation and thanksgiving for the blessings of life and, with another year soon upon us, a realisation of the importance of living in the present – carpe diem or seize the moment. In

mentioning this, perhaps I could refer to the inspiration said to have been derived by many people over the years from the teachings of Sir William Osler which have been widely admired and followed over the years.

A Canadian who was one of the four founding professors of Johns Hopkins Hospital in the US, he was lauded at the time as one of the leading physicians in the English-speaking world.

He famously advised his medical students at Yale University in 1913 to live neither in the past nor in the future but to ‘let each day’s work absorb all your interest, energy and enthusiasm.

The best preparation for

tomorrow is to do today’s work superbly well’. It is said that his ‘Way of Life’ address was one of the most inspiring ever heard at Yale, and interest in it was so great that it was published in essay form and widely distributed so that the basic idea of living in ‘day-tight compartments’ is familiar to many.

It is said that his advice has helped people over the years to do their day’s work with confidence, using their experience wisely without letting the mistakes of the past paralyze the efforts of today and without letting needless anxieties about the future waste their energies or destroy their peace of mind.

PAGE 10, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

An Israeli ministry ‘concept paper’ proposes transferring Gaza civilians to Egypt’s Sinai JERUSALEM Associated Press AN ISRAELI government ministry has drafted a wartime proposal to transfer the Gaza Strip’s 2.3 million people to Egypt’s Sinai peninsula, drawing condemnation from the Palestinians and worsening tensions with Cairo.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office played down the report compiled by the Intelligence Ministry as a hypothetical exercise — a “concept paper.” But its conclusions deepened long-standing Egyptian fears that Israel wants to make Gaza into Egypt’s problem, and revived for Palestinians memories of their greatest trauma — the uprooting of hundreds of thousands of people who fled or were forced from their homes during the fighting surrounding Israel’s creation in 1948.

“We are against transfer to any place, in any form, and we consider it a red line that we will not allow to be crossed,” Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, said of the report. “What happened in 1948 will not be allowed to happen again.”

A mass displacement, Rudeineh said, would be “tantamount to declaring a new war.”

So far more than 8,000 Palestinians, the vast majority of them civilians, have been killed since Israel went to war against Hamas after its Oct. 7 attack.

AIMED AT PRESERVING SECURITY FOR ISRAEL The document is dated Oct. 13, six days after Hamas militants killed more than 1,400 people in southern Israel and took over 240 hostage in an attack that provoked a devastating Israeli war in Gaza. It was first published by Sicha Mekomit, a local news site.

In its report, the Intelligence Ministry — a junior ministry that conducts research but does not set policy — offered three alternatives “to effect a significant change in the civilian reality in the Gaza Strip in light of the Hamas crimes that led to the Sword of Iron war.”

The document’s authors

PALESTINIANS leave their homes following Israeli bombardment on Gaza City, yesterday. deem this alternative to be the most desirable for Israel’s security.

The document proposes moving Gaza’s civilian population to tent cities in northern Sinai, then building permanent cities and an undefined humanitarian corridor. A security zone would be established inside Israel to block the displaced Palestinians from entering. The report did not say what would become of Gaza once its population is cleared out.

Egypt’s Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report.

But Egypt has made clear throughout this latest war that it does not want to take in a wave of Palestinian refugees.

Egypt has long feared that Israel wants to force a permanent expulsion of Palestinians into its territory, as happened during the war surrounding Israel’s independence. Egypt ruled Gaza between 1948 and 1967, when Israel captured the territory, along

with the West Bank and east Jerusalem. The vast majority of Gaza’s population are the descendants of Palestinian refugees uprooted from what is now Israel.

Egypt’s president, Abdel Fattah El-Sissi, has said a mass influx of refugees from Gaza would eliminate the Palestinian nationalist cause. It would also risk bringing militants into Sinai, where they might launch attacks on Israel, he said. That would endanger the countries’ 1979 peace treaty.

He proposed that Israel instead house Palestinians in its Negev Desert, which neighbours the Gaza Strip, until it ends its military operations.

Yoel Guzansky, a senior fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv, said the paper threatened to damage relations with a key partner.

“If this paper is true, this is a grave mistake.

It might cause a strategic rift between Israel and

Egypt,” said Guzansky, who said he has consulted for the ministry in the past. “I see it either as ignorance or someone who wants to negatively affect Israel-Egypt relations, which are very important at this stage.”

Egypt is a valuable partner that cooperates behind the scenes with Israel, he said. If it is seen as overtly assisting an Israeli plan like this, especially involving the Palestinians, it could be “devastating to its stability.”

QUESTIONS OF LEGITIMACY — AND OTHER POSSIBLE DESTINATIONS Egypt would not necessarily be the Palestinian refugees’ last stop. The document speaks about Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates supporting the plan either financially, or by taking in uprooted residents of Gaza as refugees and in the long term as citizens. Canada’s “lenient”

Prosecutor takes aim at Sam BankmanFried’s credibility at trial of FTX founder NEW YORK Associated Press A PROSECUTOR began cross-examining Sam Bankman-Fried at a New York City trial on Monday, attacking his credibility by highlighting public statements he made before and after the FTX cryptocurrency exchange he founded filed for bankruptcy late last year when it could no longer process billions of dollars in withdrawals.

Assistant US Attorney Danielle Sassoon confronted BankmanFried with instances in which he’d promised customers that their assets would be safe and that they could demand those assets to be returned at any time.

Repeatedly, BankmanFried answered the series of questions with a rapid “Yep.” Bankman-Fried, 31, has been on trial for the past month on charges that he defrauded his customers and investors of billions of dollars. He has pleaded not guilty to charges that carry a potential penalty of decades in prison.

The California man gained a level of fame from 2017 to 2022 as he created the Alameda Research hedge fund and FTX, building a cryptocurrency empire that became worth tens of billions of dollars.

For a time, he seemed to

BARBARA Fried and Joseph Bankman, parents of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, arrive to Manhattan federal court in New York yesterday.

Photo: Seth Wenig/AP be transforming the emerging industry by conforming to his publicly stated vision of a more regulated and safe environment for users.

Through her line of questioning, Sassoon tried to show that BankmanFried’s public statements were false and that he promised customers that their accounts were safe while he looted them, spending lavishly on real estate, celebrity-laden promotions, investments and political contributions.

In one instance, she asked him if he’d used profanity in speaking about regulators — even

as he was trying to convince Congress to bring more legitimacy to the cryptocurrency industry by setting up a regulatory framework.

“I said that once,” he answered when she offered a specific example.

And when Sassoon asked if his pursuit of regulations was just an attempt at garnering positive public relations, he answered: “I said something related to that, yes.”

Before cross-examination began on Monday, Bankman-Fried testified that he believed his companies could withstand the

daily withdrawal of billions of dollars in assets until several days before they could not.

Bankman-Fried was arrested last December on fraud charges. Initially freed on a $250 million personal recognizance bond to live with his parents in Palo Alto, California, he was jailed in August when Judge Lewis A. Kaplan became convinced that he had tried to tamper with potential trial witnesses.

He began testifying on Thursday. Kaplan has told jurors that the trial might be completed as early as this week.

Photo: Abed Khaled/AP immigration practices also make it a potential resettlement target, the document adds.

At first glance, this proposal “is liable to be complicated in terms of international legitimacy,” the document acknowledges. “In our assessment, fighting after the population is evacuated would lead to fewer civilian casualties compared to what could be expected if the population were to remain.”

An Israeli official familiar with the document said it isn’t binding and that there was no substantive discussion of it with security officials. Netanyahu’s office called it a “concept paper, the likes of which are prepared at all levels of the government and its security agencies.”

“The issue of the ‘day after’ has not been discussed in any official

forum in Israel, which is focused at this time on destroying the governing and military capabilities of Hamas,” the prime minister’s office said.

The document dismisses the two other options: reinstating the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority as the sovereign in Gaza, or supporting a local regime.

Among other reasons, it rejects them as unable to deter attacks on Israel.

The reinstatement of the Palestinian Authority, which was ejected from Gaza after a weeklong 2007 war that put Hamas in power, would be “an unprecedented victory of the Palestinian national movement, a victory that will claim the lives of thousands of Israeli civilians and soldiers, and does not safeguard Israel’s security,” the document says.

A 5.4 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE SHAKES JAMAICA - NO REPORTS OF CASUALTIES OR SERIOUS DAMAGE SAN JUAN Associated Press A 5.4 MAGNITUDE earthquake hit Jamaica on Monday, prompting people to flee buildings amid heavy shaking that knocked out power in some areas but appeared to cause no serious damage.

Food, wine bottles and other items tumbled off the shelves in grocery stores and some minor damage to buildings was reported.

The tremor’s epicenter was about 2 miles (4 kilometres) west-northwest of Hope Bay in northeastern Jamaica, according to the US Geological Survey. It occurred at a shallow depth of 6 miles (10 kilometres).

Prime Minister Andrew Holness said no deaths, injuries or severe damage had been reported.

“Damage has been minor, but nevertheless, we are taking all precautions,” he said in a brief message posted online. “I want to say to all Jamaicans, remain calm.”

He asked that people stay in a safe place in case of aftershocks, adding that the earthquake temporarily left certain areas without electricity and phone service.

“We give God thanks for sparing us the worst,” he said.

Jamaica’s Constabulary Force said in a statement that the earthquake knocked traffic lights offline and that police were being dispatched to intersections.

The tremor sparked fear on the island, with some

people rushed to hospitals for panic attacks.

Participants at the UN’s International Seabed Authority meeting that began Monday could be seeing fleeing on camera before the broadcast cut off. The group eventually returned, but decided to postpone the meeting to late afternoon amid jitters.

“We need some time to adjust emotionally,” said Elza Moreira Marcelino de Castro, Brazil’s representative.

One unidentified journalist was on the air in Jamaica when the ground began shaking.

“We’re having an earthquake,” he said calmly.

Then, the shaking grew stronger.

“Oh, God,” he said as the lights flickered off and he sought shelter under a desk.

While small earthquakes are common in and around Jamaica — some 200 a year — strong ones are rare.

The devastating Port Royal earthquake occurred in 1692, with a portion of the town sinking into the sea. Then in 1907, a quake struck the capital, Kingston, killing more than 1,000 people. Another big quake was reported in March 1957, affecting mostly western Jamaica, according to the University of the West Indies in Mona, Jamaica.

The island sits atop the Enriquillo–Plantain Garden fault zone as do Haiti and the Dominican Republic, according to the US Geological Survey.

SPORTS PAGE 11

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023

Ayton, Page 13

Decathlete Mullings in position for medal

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

N

ational record holder Ken Mullings positioned himself for a medal in the men’s decathlon yesterday as the track and field competition got underway at the 19th Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile.

Mullings completed the first day in fourth place with 4,035 points after the first five of 10 events contested in the men’s decathlon on Monday at the Coliseo del Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez.

His counterpart and former national record holder Kendrick Thompson was listed to compete in the event, but he didn’t make the trip.

Competing solo, Mullings opened the multiple event competition with a victory in his heat of the men’s 100 metres in 10.89 seconds to generate 885 points to snatch the early lead on the field of 10 competitors.

Mullings, competing in Group B of the men’s long jump, dropped to third with a leap of 22-feet, 7 ¾ inches or 6.90m for 790 points, putting him in third place overall.

Out of Group A of the men’s shot put, Mullings got another third with a heave of 47-9 ½ (14.57m) for 763 points as he remained in third in the standings.

The 26-year-old came back in the high jump and soared 6-7 ¼ (2.01m) for third place with 813 points to hold onto third overall.

Mullings ended the day in the first heat of the men’s 400 metres in second place in 50.67 for 784 points.

He, however, dropped to

Track and field gets underway at 19th Pan American Games

KEN MULLINGS, of The Bahamas, competes in the shot put during the decathlon at the Worlds Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, in 2022. fourth place in the standings. As the decathlon is completed today, Mullings will be competing in the 110m hurdles, discus, pole vault, javelin and the 1,500m.

Also in action yesterday was Andros native Samson Colebrooke, the lone competitor entered in a track event. He had to settle for seventh place in the second of three heats of the men’s 100 metre semifinals in 10.62.

Colebrooke, 26, was 19th overall, but heat winner Erik Barbosa of Brazil

(10.43) and Puerto Ricos’ runner-up Diego Gonzalez (10.50) got into the final.

The fastest qualifier was Jose Gonzalez of the Dominican Republic in 10.30.

Meanwhile, in the waters of the Cofradía Náutica del Pacífico in Algarrobo, Chile, Joshua Higgins, the other Bahamian competing in sailing, gave it his best shot in the Dinghy ILCA 7 category.

The native of Harbour Island wrapped up competition in 17th place overall out of a field of 22

competitors with a total net score of 68 and an overall tally of 87.

In his final three races yesterday, Higgins was 17th and 19th twice in races three, four and five respectively.

On Saturday, he did his first two races, finishing 17th and 15th for 16th position at that point with 32 points The two races, which were scheduled for Sunday, were postponed and were completed yesterday along with the final race in the series.

Mullings will be back in action in the final five events of the decathlon today.

And the other two members of Team Bahamas’ track team, Donald Thomas and Rhema Otabor, will compete on Friday in the men’s high jump and women’s javelin respectively.

Team Bahamas already earned a medal at the games during the first week of competition as swimmer Lamar Taylor touched the wall for the bronze in the men’s 50 metres freestyle.

GET READY FOR ‘THE BAHAMAS VERSUS THE WORLD’

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net CO-founder of the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise Todd Isaacs Jr noted that every year they try to make the December extravaganza an exciting one for the plyers and the spectators.

This year’s event, which is being dubbed “The Bahamas versus the World,” will take place from December 5-10 with the newly built Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium being utilised for some of its activities.

A press conference was held in the foyer of the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium yesterday as Isaacs and Lucius Fox talked about their plans for the sixth edition of the tournament, which has gained international recognition.

Calling it a “surreal moment” to be in the stadium, although they haven’t stepped foot on the field as yet, Isaacs Jr said it speaks volumes for the progress of baseball in the country.

“For us to be here today to present a new edition of the derby means the world to us,” Isaacs Jr said. “All it means is that for us as professional baseball players, we can pick the torch up and continue to carry it and to make it a little easier for the younger players coming behind us.”

Isaacs Jr said he and Fox are excited about this year’s tournament, which comes off a smashing success of last year’s event.

He said their team has been working tirelessly in exposing the world to the Bahamas with so many players who are eager to come to participate or to view the tournament.

“The concept of the Home Run Derby on the beach started out as a dream,” Isaacs Jr said. “We mapped it out on paper, transformed it through conversation and through your attendance today, it’s the

SEE PAGE 16

NOTTAGE ‘United in Sports - DENALI TAKES HOME TITLE A Golden Jubilee’

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net SPORTS Heritage Month is here and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture is looking forward to inducting its latest Hall of Famers, selecting its outstanding athletes, teams and coaches as well as staging a number of other activities to bring the community together.

At a press conference yesterday at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, plans were announced for the activities that will be held under the theme “United in Sports - A Golden Jubilee.”

The highlight of the month will be the National Sports Awards that will take place on the lawn of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture at 6:30pm on Saturday when 12 new members of the National Sports Hall of Fame will be inducted.

They are former long-time

Bahamas Olympic Committee executive Lawrence Davis for basketball; former Bahamas Football Association president Anton Sealey for soccer; Olympian Allan Murray for swimming; businessman Craig Flowers for golf; coach Peter Pratt for track and field; legendary Mark Knowles for tennis; Irvin Taylor for cricket; Bahamas Softball Federation president Jenny Isaacs-Dotson for volleyball; Grand Bahamian Yvonne Lockhart for softball; multi-talented James Sam ‘Ironman’ Brown for cycling; veteran Bahamas Boxing Commissioner Fernley Palmer for boxing and IsaacsDotson, in responding on behalf of the honourees, thanked the ministry for including them as the latest inductees.

The former versatile volleyball and softball standout noted that they are all “looking forward” to the event and grateful for

NOMINEES for the Tourism Impact Award. being recognised for their “accomplishments” as so many others have gone unnoticed.

Oria Wood-Knowles, the deputy director of

SEE PAGE 16

THE Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association congratulates Bahamian Denali Nottage on winning the Casely $10k Men’s Open in Hollywood, Florida, on October 23.

On his path to victory, Nottage faced four Americans. The first in the round of 32, he was victorious over Greyson Williams 6-1, 6-3.

In the quarterfinals, Nottage won in straight sets again against Zachary Prince of Sacramento, California, 6-1, 6-1.

In the semifinals, Nottage won over Adler Germinal 6-2, 6-4.

In the final, Nottage won over Jaycer Lyeons 6-1, 6-4.

In the previous week, Nottage played in the semifinals, winning over Mwenda Mbithi 6-4, 7-5.

At the end of September, Nottage was in another 10K finals after winning over Argentian Federico Boscarino of 6-4, 7-5. He went on to fight in a thriller of a three-set, losing 5-10 in the tiebreak.

Denali is also The BLTA’s 2022/23 national champion

DENALI NOTTAGE and represented the Bahamas at the highest level of team competition at the 2023 Davis Cup in Paraguay, earning his debut singles win.

The BLTA wishes Denali all the best as he continues to set his mark on the tennis landscape!

PAGE 12, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

3RD ANNUAL SHERI ROBERTS OPEN IN ABACO

Tennis champions crowned on Winding Bay

IT was another exciting Sheri Roberts Open at the Abaco Club on Winding Bay. From the competitive tennis matches, the following winners emerged: Boys U14 Champion: Da’Shan Gardiner Jr Runner Up: Xander Major Girls U14 Champion: Anya Hepburn Runner Up: Makayla McDonald Girls U18 Champion: Tianna Bootle Boys U18 Champion: Latahj Orlando Runner Up: Theo Weir Men’s Singles Open Winner: Stephen Thompson Runner Up: Clanardo CJ Davis Men’s Doubles Open Champions: Abishai Adderley and Clanardo CJ Davis Runners Up: Stephen Thompson and Eugene Gibson The President of the Abaco Tennis Association (ATA) Mrs Cameel McDonald, ATA treasurer Chavonne Reid, BLTA president Perry Newton, BLTA treasurer Timothy Dames and tournament sponsor Mr Daron Roberts were all on hand to congratulate the winners.

The ATA who recently hosted its first junior national ranked tournament in August followed up with this open event which is in its third year.

The ATA has continued to work towards the growth and development of tennis in Abaco. We wish them continued success.

The BLTA congratulates all the participants and winners.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, October 31, 2023, PAGE 13

Ayton grabs career-high 23 rebounds as Trail Blazers beat Raptors for 1st win of season

By IAN HARRISON Associated Press TORONTO (AP) — Jerami Grant scored 22 points, Deandre Ayton had 10 points and a careerhigh 23 rebounds and the Portland Trail Blazers won their first game of the season by beating the Toronto Raptors 99-91 last night.

“It feels great to get that first win,” Grant said. “We just want to build on it and keep getting better.”

Fifteen of Ayton’s rebounds came in the second half, when Portland outscored Toronto 52-41.

Ayton finished with seven offensive boards.

“His presence was felt everywhere on the floor tonight,” Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said of Ayton. “Those are some of the things that we’re going to expect to be getting from him.”

Ayton’s previous rebounding mark was 21, set three times. He last reached it November 26, 2022, against Utah.

Malcolm Brogdon scored 21 points, including a driving basket with 25 seconds remaining, and Canadian-born guard Shaedon Sharpe scored 14 points for Portland, which snapped a season-opening, three-game losing streak.

Trail Blazers rookie Scoot Henderson scored 11 points as Portland snapped a two-game losing streak against Toronto.

“I was just so happy for Scoot,” Billups said. “Both halves he was aggressive, he was attacking. I thought defensively he was really good as well.”

TORONTO Raptors guard Dennis Schroder (17) moves the ball around Portland Trail Blazers centre Deandre Ayton (2) during firsthalf NBA basketball game action in Toronto last night.

(Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP) Scottie Barnes had 20 Siakam missing all six of Precious Achiuwa, who left from 3-point range in the points and 12 rebounds his attempts.

Saturday’s game because first two quarters. and Jakob Poeltl had 14 Anunoby was the only of a sore left groin, did not Grant scored eight points and 10 rebounds, Raptors player to make play Monday. points and Brogdon had but Toronto lost its third more than one 3-pointer.

Portland centre Robert seven as Portland made 13 straight. “I feel like we He shot 2 for 9 from dis- Williams III was rested on of 22 attempts in the third. should have won this one,” tance. “We couldn’t get the second night of a back- The Trail Blazers took an Barnes said. buckets and that was to-back after playing 26 80-74 lead to the fourth.

Pascal Siakam scored the theme of the night,” minutes in Sunday’s loss at “In our last game, 20 points, and Dennis Raptors coach Darko Philadelphia. against Philly, in the third Schroder and O.G. Anu- Rajakovic said.

Siakam scored the final quarter they came out and noby each had 10 for Anunoby returned after four points of the first half jumped on us early,” Grant Toronto. The Raptors shot sitting out Saturday’s loss to give Toronto a 50-47 said. “We knew we had to a season-worst 4 for 29 to Philadelphia because of lead at the intermission. come out with a level of from 3-point range, with muscle cramps. Forward The Raptors shot 3 for 16 intensity.”

SOFTBALL GAMES PRELUDE TO PUBLIC SERVICE WEEK PUBLIC service workers enjoyed softball games at the Blue Hills Sporting Complex on Saturday morning in their leadup to full launch of their commemorative week.

National Public Service Week, to the theme ‘One Nation, One People, Our Public Service’ went into full gear with an ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving on Sunday morning at Living Waters Kingdom Ministries to begin a number of commemorative activities over the coming days.

The special week’s Slow Pitch Co-Ed Softball Tournament will take place again on November 4 (semi-finals and championship). Participating teams span a number

of government departments and agencies.

The tourney included participation by disabled members of the civil service

who are asked to throw out the first pitch at the beginning of each new game.

Photos: Patrice Johnson/ BIS

HIELD SCORES 11 FOR PACERS IN LOSS TO BULLS INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Nikola Vucevic scored nine of his 24 points in the fourth quarter, and the Chicago Bulls rallied past the Indiana Pacers 112-105 last night.

The Bulls trailed by five entering the fourth, but surged down the stretch as Vucevic delivered three key layups. The first two tied the game and the third gave Chicago a one-point lead. DeMar DeRozan put the Bulls ahead to stay on a layup that made it 101-99 with 3:46 remaining.

Zach LaVine had 23 points and DeRozan scored 20 for the Bulls, who have split four games to start the season. The pair shot a combined 12 of 36 from field.

Myles Turner led the Pacers with 20 points.

Tyrese Haliburton had 19 points and 13 assists, Bennedict Mathurin and Bruce Brown each scored 15 points and Buddy Hield had 11 with four assists.

Chicago went 26 of 31 at the line, where Indiana went 21 of 25.

The Pacers, who had opened with a pair of victories, were their own worst enemy in settling for longrange shots. They made 12 of 46 3-pointers (26.1%).

“Look, our guys played hard too, we just didn’t play well,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. “The quality of our 3s could have been better.”

Two nights after scoring a career-high 51 points at Detroit, LaVine struggled early. The All-Star made two of seven shots but hit five free throws for 10 points in the first half.

DeRozan missed six of seven shots in a four-point half.

PAGE 14, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

2ND CITY OF HOPE CONNECT FOR CANCER FUN/RUN WALK

HELPING THE COMMUNITY - The second edition of the City of Hope Connect for Cancer Fun/ Run Walk was a success that saw proceeds go to these two residents of South Beach to help in their battle with cancer.

Uniting to support the fight against cancer

SUPPORTING THE CAUSE - The second edition of the Connect for Cancer Fun/Run Walk & Mini Health Expo was a success as supporters came out in great numbers to participate in the event, raise funds and awareness for two residents of the South Beach constituency that are diagnosed with breast cancer. The event also featured a cooking demo conducted by chef Addie Farrington.

A special thanks is extended to the event’s title sponsor, the Cancer Center Treatment of America’s City of Hope and Four Seasons Race Management for assisting with the preparation of the event.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, October 31, 2023, PAGE 15

Revving up for the future THEY were 11 eager young men who swarmed around the vehicle like busy bees. The excitement was evident as they were presented with the opportunity to diagnose the multiple issues the owner faced.

One of the most vocal of the crew was 32-year-old Gabriel Metholall. He had just arrived at class. He was quite late, but his instructor understood that as a mechanic at Nassau Flight Services, driving from the airport was a challenge.

Gabriel is one of 54 students in the Auto Mechanics programme at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI).

Of the students in the Vehicle Systems class, he has the most experience with eight years as a mechanic.

“From I know myself, I was dealing with cars. My dad does body work; he was a mechanic first. I learned a lot through him,” he said.

Questioned as to what his experience in the Auto Mechanics programme has been like so far,

The BTVI Story the second semester student hastily said, “It’s beautiful.”

Gabriel credited his instructors, Perry Brooks and Colin Johnson for enlightening him in various areas including trouble shooting, soldering wire and the ratio of air, fuel and combustion.

Also in that class was 18-yearold Joshua Rolle. The 2023 St. Augustine’s College (SAC) graduate did not discover his passion until 11th grade. He was so excited, he started studying Auto Mechanics on his own.

“I wanted to do something I love. I am passionate about mechanics and welding. If I am on a job I love, I wouldn’t have a problem going to work every day,” said the teenager.

During the class when Mr. Brooks hoisted the vehicle into the air via a hydraulic lift, it was Joshua who seemed most excited.

glad they support the route I’ve decided to take,” said Joshua.

When the vehicle was being lowered, Joshua shouted, “Clear the lift.” He took pride in ensuring everyone cleared the area and there were no accidents. Safety remains a priority.

Meantime, Mr Brooks, who has ten years as a mechanic is teaching the students topics such as engine, exhaust, brake and fuel systems. He enjoys teaching.

“It’s very rewarding in this environment. I am very comfortable because I am imparting knowledge and skills to help younger men, in particular, obtain a trade.

I see a lot of potential here. It’s a joy,” he said.

BTVI Vehicle Systems instructor, Perry Brooks (second from right) along with students during a class.

Photo: BTVI Joshua was one of the first to traditional academic subjects in high school, his parents support begin exploring.

“She just got a new belt. Oh him learning a trade.

“In their eyes, once I like it, pretty,” he said excitedly.

The first semester student they say, ‘Go for it.’ It was a sacsaid though he studied more rifice to send me to SAC, but I’m

HARBOUR ISLAND STUDENTS SHINE HARBOUR Island student won local scholarship and awards for academic achievements.

Jaiell Winder, the top grade 11 student at the Harbour Island All Age School (HIAAS) was selected by her principal and students to receive the Romalia’s Townhouse Legacy Scholarship Award.

Jaiell is 15 years old, goal oriented, enjoys studying and exploring community initiatives. She has continuously excelled in her studies, successfully attaining the honour roll, principal’s list, and top student. She has 8 BJCs passing 5 with Bs and 3 with As and currently serves as a prefect at her school.

She is a member of the

STUDENTS have been honoured, including Jaiell Winder who won the Romalia’s Townhouse Legacy Scholarship Award. new Lignum Vitae ConEvery summer and somecert & Marching Band of times after school hours Harbour Island, a member and during the weekends, of Girls Guides, Nursing she gains work experience Cadets, and also a new in real estate and accounts member of the Teachers in the office of Dunmore Cadet programme.

Realty.

ART ON SHOW BY SADIE CURTIS PUPILS STUDENTS at Sadie Curtis Primary School displayed their artistic skills with their visual art display.

October is the Ministry of Education’s Visual Art Unit’s month to celebrate and this year’s theme “This is who we are 50 years and beyond’ pays tribute to the country’s golden jubilee.

Sadie Curtis held a special assembly where students displayed their work and artist Minolta Butler encouraged the students to ‘keep trying’ as creativity can turn a mistake into a brilliant piece of art.

She said: “Art takes time and dedication, keep trying and stay focus. Painting with coffee was a mistake turn into creativity.”

The month-long festivities included a chalk art contest, tie dye contest, dip and paint, art competition and an exhibition at the Mall at Marathon. An art parade will be held today to

ART on show at the Mall at Marathon and, right, Sadie Curtis students taking part in an art assembly. round off the activities.

Mrs Knowles, art officer at the Ministry of Education, noted that a month is needed to celebrate art.

She said: “Art education is vital; studies revealed that it relieves stress, improve academics and problem solving.

Hence, it should be celebrated and it is celebrated in many public schools in New Providence and some of the Family Islands.”

Young faces at Parliament event THE Ministry of Youth Sports and Culture wrapped up its youth month activities with the annual Youth in Parliament at the House of Assembly last week.

Youth in Parliament allows students to gain firsthand experience in the parliamentary process and allows them to voice their concerns

and formulate solutions to.

The ministry also provided a Youth in Senate opportunity for the students and they were supported by the advice and experience of current cabinet ministers Mario Bowleg, Minister of Youth, Sports and Fred Mitchell, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“The BTVI Story” is a biweekly column which highlights the who, what and why of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), a tertiary institution where individuals ‘Discover the Possibilities’ related to various trades. The column is produced by BTVI’s Office of Public Relations.

PAGE 16, Tuesday, October 31, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

NPSA: Black Scorpions knock off I-BAP 7-5 THE New Providence Softball Association continued its abbreviated regular season action in the Bankers Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex with just one game played on Saturday night.

The Black Scorpions knocked off the I-BAP 7-5 as Vashawna Bastian went 3-for-4 with two runs scored.

Thela Johnson was 2-for-3 with two runs scored as well and Maria Forbes helped out with a 1-for-2 outing.

In a losing effort, Breshae Stubbs was a perfect 2-for-2, Sophia Cartwright was 2-for-3 with a run batted in (RBI) and a run scored and Ashanti Evans was 1-for-2 with a pair of runs scored.

Laurel Hanchell picked up the win on the mound as she outduelled Grace Chea.

In her seven innings of work, Hanchell tossed a six-hitter with a walk.

Chea surrendered seven hits with six strikeouts, a walk (base on balls) and five runs scored.

Both Hanchell and Chea struck out six batters.

League play will continue this week with the following games on tap: Thursday 8:30pm - Chances Mighty Mitts vs Cyber Tech Blue Marlins.

THE BLACK Scorpions knocked off the I-BAP 7-5 Saturday in New Providence Softball Association regular 7pm - University of the Baha- season action on Saturday night. mas Lady Mingoes vs I-BAP. Photo: Dante Carrer

MINISTRY PARTNERS WITH NSA FOR THIRD ANNUAL FITNESS FEST THE Ministry of Youth, Sports & Culture is proud to partner with the National Sports Authority for the third annual Fitness Fest exercise programme.

The event takes place November 6-30 every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 6pm to 7pm at the exterior courts of the Kendal G L Isaacs Gymnasium.

The best news is that it’s free.

Variety will be the order of the day as participants will have the opportunity

to experience circuit training on Mondays, Zumba on Tuesdays and soca aerobics on Thursdays.

Sessions will be taught by three of the hottest, professionally certified fitness trainers on the island.

Participants are promised a high-energy experience that will inspire a positive and healthy lifestyle.

There is simply something for everyone. So come on out, bring your towels, energy and enthusiasm and start your journey to a healthier you.

GET READY FOR ‘THE BAHAMAS VERSUS THE WORLD’ FROM PAGE 11 cornerstone of everything that we have going on.”

However, Fox said, without their partners, their event would have just been a dream and an idea. He mentioned three international partners Major League Baseball Players Association, represented on Zoom by its director Amy Hever, Minority Baseball and Softball Prospects, represented by Reggie Hollins, the president/ chief operating officer and the Players Alliance, represented by its chairman Curtis Granderson.

Last year, Fox said the Players Alliance donated $250,000 worth of baseball equipment to Freedom Farm Baseball League, which was a great help considering that when he was growing up, they had to “borrow” equipment, which was “hard to find.”

“Thank you to the Player Alliance for believing in us,” he stated.

Fox said their goal is to amplify baseball in the country and with the help

of their international partners, they will work towards getting more players like Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm Jr with the Miami Marlins being exposed to playing pro baseball on television.

To those players who are currently following them, Fox said they have planned a series of events during the week of the Home Run Derby, but he advised them not to be late in signing up to participate.

All of their activities for the players are “free” as they participate in a kids camp and get evaluated as they get some tips on how they can improve and take their game to the next level.

Minority Baseball & Softball Prospects, according to Fox, will be bringing in some of their players, who will be matched against the Bahamian players so that they can see where their talent level is at during a showcase.

“We’re excited sbout that because everyone is not going to have the same path,” Fox said. “Not everyone is going to go from high school to professional

baseball, so college is important too.

“So we want to give the kids all the tools they need to accomplish their goals.

We believe they can still reach the professional ranks through college. So that at the showcase, we will have the pro scouts and the college scouts.”

On Wednesday, December 5, there will be a camp for the young players from 4-6pm and Fox encouraged the parents to ensure that their players come out and participate because he remembered how, at the age of seven, he was “introduced to the game and it changed my life.”

Immediately following the camp at 7pm, a celebrity softball game will be played at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.

Hopefully the players at the camp will get a chance to rub shoulders with the celebrities.

On Thursday, December 7, there will be a golf tournament at the Royal Blue Golf Course, starting at 9am. That will be followed by the Minority Don’t Blink

CO-founder Lucius Fox speaks about the sixth Home Run Derby as Todd Isaacs Jr looks on.

Baseball Future Showcase in Paradise at the Andre Rodgers stadium.

And on Friday, December 8, the official welcome party will take place. As soon as tickets are available, Fox encouraged the general public to purchase them as space will be limited.

The grand finale is the sixth Home Run Derby in Paradise in Montagu Bay. The gates open at noon and the action will start at 1pm.

Fox said while the rivalry between Team Fox and Team Isaacs is now tied, they will switch gear and have The Bahamas versus the World competition.

“We need all out Bahamian people to come out and support us,” Fox said.

Kelsie Johnson-Sills, the director of sports in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, on behalf of Minister Mario Bowleg, congratulated the organisers for putting on another fantastic tournament.

“We are very happy to know that we are partnering

with you and our doors are always opened to you,” Johnson-Sills said, adding that the group is being recognised for two special awards during the National Sports Awards ceremony on Saturday at the ministry.

Senator Randy Rolle, representing the Ministry of Tourism, said that as the event is a part of their Sports Tourism, they welcome the organisers and look forward to the relationship that they have developed around the world and is bringing it to The Bahamas.

Rolle, however, made the suggestion that maybe in the seventh year, the Home Run Derby could be moved to Grand Bahama or his homebirth of Bimini where there is a strong baseball presence.

Moses Johnson, the general manager of the National Sports Authority, said it’s their pleasure to partner with the group of phenomenal men and to go from year one to six, they now become a staple.

“So the NSA stands resolute to provide the opportunity through our facilities to make this event that much more successful and we are happy to be partnering with you guys and we hope that we continue this partnership for years to come,” Johnson said.

Gavin Christie, representing Cuba Libre, said as a brand that “lives in the Bahamas and believes in the Bahamas,” they are elated to be a sponsor for the event.

“Cuba Libre is the number one regular drink in the Bahamas, so it makes sense to partner with the number one baseball programme in the Bahamas.”

Also present was James Clarke, the founder and CEO of Global Sun Ingegrated Services, who is also among the list of sponsors that include the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation, Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, National Sports Authority, Atlantis, REV, the Players Alliance, Major League Baseball Association, the Players Way, Bahamas Waste, Heritage Seafood, City of Hope, Asure Win, M & E Limited, Global Sun Integration Management, Cuba Libre, Triple A Marine, Tortuga Rum & Rum Cakes, Family Medical Center, Gatorade, Happy Healing Home Care, Baolica, C3 Propane, Prime Shopping, Global Insurance, Mela Water, Bank of the Bahamas and Bahamasair.

Two of the local charities that the organisation supports is the Sister Sister Programme, which was represented by Chantel Cox and the Bahamas Kidney Association, represented by Tameka Roberts.

‘United in Sports - A Golden Jubilee’ FROM PAGE 11 Sports, thanked the Ministry for putting on what is expected to be another spectacular event as they reflect on the past 50 years of Independence and the sporting memories performed by the athletes and witnessed by the spectators.

Wood-Knowles, one of the greatest all-around female athletes who is just to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, said it’s important to be able to relive the thrills and spills that occurred and that is why it is so important to recognise the movers and shakers in the past.

“We just can’t say thank you enough,” WoodKnowles said on behalf of the ministry, to the athletes and sports administrators for the roles they all played in nation building. “We are truly grateful for the things that you have done.”

The ministry will also be presenting awards to the recipients of the male and female Junior High School Student Athlete of the Year, junior and senior National Secondary Athletic School of the Year, National Team of the Year, Tourism Impact Award, National Sportsmanship Award, male and female Senior High School Student Athlete of the Year, Community Sports Award, Olympic Committee Award, Tourism

Ambassador Award, Minister of Sports Award for Excellence, male and female Family Island School Student Athlete of the Year, Family Island Coach of the Year, National Coach of the Year, Leevan Sands Courage Award, Prime Minister Award for National Pride, male and female Collegiate Athlete of the Year, Youth National Team of the Year, Federation of the Year, male and female Athletes of the Year with Disability and Sports League of the Year.

Minister Bowleg indicated the importance of recognising sports for the contributions that they would have made to nation building and his staff is making sure those deserving of the awards receive their accolades.

“Sports is a universal and timeless principal that transcends the boundaries of nations and backgrounds, he said. “Therefore, our sports department team is most fitting at this time.

Sports is the purest form.

It’s not about the competition, but really about bringing people together, developing friendship and understanding the value of being a teammate in the game of life.”

Bowleg congratulated both the inductees and the honourees.

During the press conference, there was a replay

of the men’s 4 x 400 metre relay team of Chris ‘Fireman’ Brown, Demetrius Pinder, Michael Mathieu and Ramon Miller in winning the gold medal at the Olympic Games in London, England in 2012 and the Golden Girls’ 4 x 100m relay team of Sevatheda Fynes, Chandra Sturrup, Pauline Davis-Thompson and Debbie FergusonMcKenzie for their victory at the Olympics in 2000 in Sydney, Australia.

While the awards presentation and induction ceremony will be the focus of attention this weekend, Bowleg encouraged the public to get involved in the 30 days of activities planned by his ministry to “whip you into shape, honour and celebrate and inspire” as they celebrate the country’s Golden Jubilee Year, Also on Saturday starting at 9am, there will be a celebrity golf tournament at the Bahamas Golf Federation’s Driving Range and a public service softball tournament at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

A number of other activities, including a church service at Zion Baptist Church on East and Shirley Street, starting at 11am, Total body reset fitness classes that starts on Mondays, November 6 at 6pm, tennis, volleyball and softball tournaments and a fun run/walk sports health fair.