11072023 BUSINESS AND FEATURES

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2023

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Bahamians face extra 90-day wait to join NHI

By NEIL HARTNELL

Business Editor t )FBMUI TDIFNF Tribune nhartnell@tribunemedia.net UBSHFUT BAHAMIANS will now have AFGmDJFODJFT to endure an extra 90-day wait to enroll in National Health EVF UP AmOJUF Insurance (NHI) as the scheme SFTPVSDFT embarks on an efficiency drive to counter its “finite resources” this t &Y NJOJTUFS fiscal year.

Butler, NHI’s managTBZT "VUIPSJUZ ingChristy director and chief executive, the move as part of a CFJOH GPSDFE UP unveiled package of changes announced ASBUJPO TFSWJDFT in a November 2, 2023, letter that several medical sources - speakt "EET JU FYQPTFT ing on condition of anonymity - said amounted to “managing AXPSTU LFQU the capacity” of the scheme to an ever-increasing number TFDSFU PG (PW U cover of Bahamians and fit this growth DBTI nPX XPF into a limited budget.

However, Dr Duane Sands, the FNM’s chairman and a physician himself, said Mrs Butler’s letter was using “high falutin” language to explain that NHI is effectively “rationing the services” it provides to the Bahamian people.

This comes after doctors and other NHI providers were paid late for services rendered during their October pay period.

Dr Sands, meanwhile, argued that NHI’s late October payment further exposed “the worst kept secret”, which he described as the Government’s “cash flow problems” that have resulted in a wide variety of vendors, service providers and other beneficiaries suffering undue delays in collecting on outstanding bills that are due and owing.

Neither Michael ahead of the upcomHalkitis, minister of ing by-election. Besides economic affairs, nor filling in all the road Dr Michael Darville, pot holes in Eight Mile minister of health, Rock and Holmes Rock, responded to Tribune he added that Bimini’s Business phone calls clinic, which was “sorely and messaged inquirin need” of an upgrade ies before press time when he arrived last last night. However, Wednesday, has now DR DUANE Dr Sands said the woes been painted.

SANDS extend beyond NHI, Mrs Butler, in a adding that he “knows letter obtained

by Tribune Busifor a fact” that several Bahamian students and their families are “in ness, while apologising for the deep trouble” because scholar- late October payments to NHI ship commitments have not been providers, also disclosed several met on time. administrative and management The FNM chairman, though, reforms that will be implemented asserted that he has “seen with my during the current fiscal year own eyes” how taxpayer monies which runs until end-June 2024. are being pumped into the West End and Bimini constituency SEE PAGE B4

Early 2024 start to protect Junkanoo Beach’s $8.2m NASSAU CONNTAINER PORT

Arawak Cay port operator awaits Abaco bid outcome

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net NASSAU’S commercial port operator is waiting to learn if its bid to take over Marsh Harbour’s main shipping gateway has been successful as it eyes wider Family Island expansion.

Dion Bethell, Arawak Port Development Company’s (APD) president

and chief financial officer, confirmed to Tribune Business that the BISX-listed operator submitted a formal proposal to manage and operate the Hurricane Dorian-ravaged facility to the Government on August 7 this year.

It subsequently met with Jobeth Coleby-Davis, minister of transport and energy, and officials from her ministry in the third

week of August 2023 to give a presentation on its plans for the Marsh Harbour port, and APD is now awaiting a response from the Government on whether its offer has been accepted.

However, Mr Bethell disclosed that APD did not bid on the tender to manage/operate the North Abaco port at Cooper’s Town, with the Request

for Proposal (RFP) involving that facility released at the same time as the separate process for Marsh Harbour.

“APD would have responded to that RFP,” he told this newspaper of Marsh Harbour. “We would have had a meeting with the Government agency responsible, Transport, and we would have done a formal presentation and response to the RFP. “Since that presentation, we await the possibility for some response or if we would have been successful in the awarding of that RFP. Our response was for

SEE PAGE B2

Accountants push back on new Business Licence fines

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net BAHAMIAN accountants yesterday argued that the tax authorities’ failure to respond promptly to queries could leave them exposed to up to $150,000 fines over incorrect Business Licence fee certifications.

Several pushed back at the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) week-long seminars after Patricia Jackson, the Department of Inland Revenue’s legal compliance consultant, gave an update on the new Business Licence Act’s requirements.

She said the Department of Inland Revenue has seen “multiple cases” where BICA licensees certify

turnover under-reporting by large taxpayers who are seeking to avoid their full tax burden. Ms Jackson added that the Department of Inland Revenue can refuse to accept any signoffs when they believe the figures are incorrect.

She said: “The Department of Inland Revenue has had multiple cases of under-reporting by businesses. In many of these cases the turnover

was certified by a BICA licensee. This has led to amendments to the legislative requirements to provide more detailed requirements for the review as well as to require audits for large taxpayers.

“If the Department of Inland Revenue has reason to believe that the report issued by a BICA licensee is incorrect it may be

SEE PAGE B5

Consumer watchdog says complaints triple

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net THE CONSUMER Protection Commission’s (CPC) top executive yesterday said complaints have almost tripled compared to 2022 as Bahamians become more aware of its role in resolving their grievances.

Sharmie Farrington-Austin, its executive director, told

Tribune Business that the growth in complaints submitted by consumers proves that the newly-upgraded Consumer Protection Bill (CPB) is “right on time”.

“Our complaints have tripled,” she confirmed.

“We had 52 complaints by the end of last year, and now that persons know the CPC is here to assist them, we’re now up over 140 complaints to last week. So you can see that the complaints are almost tripling.

Persons are now aware that there is a consumer protection agency.”

Prime Minister Philip Davis, KC, in introducing the Consumer Protection Bill in Parliament last week, said the enhanced legislation will also impose restrictions on pyramid schemes plus provisions to hold their promoters accountable.

There will also be public education campaigns around consumer rights in general.

“Those who seek to mislead or deceive consumers will be held accountable for their actions,” Mr Davis said. “And those who seek to bully, harass or coerce consumers into making purchases will also be held accountable for their actions.

“Unfortunately, this is necessary because there are people out there who prey on the vulnerable in our society. They search

SEE PAGE B3

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By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net NASSAU harbour’s breakwaters will suffer “total failure” if not repaired, it was revealed yesterday, with additional shoreline protection works required to protect Junkanoo Beach’s $8.2m impact and 150 jobs.

Alexio Brown, assistant environmental specialist with the Ministry of Works and Family Island Affairs unit formed to tackle the harbour’s issues, told Tribune Business that coastal protection works focused on Junkanoo Beach and Long Wharf are due to start

in the 2024 first quarter and last for 18 months.

Replying to this newspaper’s written questions, he said the “highly stressed” area between Arawak Cay and The Pointe complex generates “high economic value” for both the Bahamian tourism product and the vendors that use it, thus requiring that its erosion be reversed.

Besides the 150 direct, indirect and induced jobs that rely on Junkanoo Beach, Mr Brown said economic impact assessments have estimated that such employment injects $4.4m in gross value added (GVA)

SEE PAGE B5

PAGE 2, Tuesday, November 7, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

THE WORLD IS GETTING SMALLER

Since 1975, five years after the index was first calculated, the average return was around 9 percent per year. Over the past ten years, it has even increased by an average of one percentage point. However, the index is currently in a phase of weakness and, since its high for the year on August 1, the MSCI World has lost almost 8 percent.

But it is a rather bad idea to exit immediately in phases of weakness.

In 2018, investors had to accept losses of around 8 percent but, in the following three years, the index posted clear double digit gains in each of the following three years. So it is the long-term average return that counts, not a single year’s return.

If you do not want to come to terms with the strong overweight of US equities in the MSCI World, you can invest in variations of it. Alternatives include the MSCI All Countries World Index (MSCI ACWI), which contains around twice as many, namely 3,000 companies, from 23 developed countries and 27 emerging markets. Look for these ETFs on our ActivTrader platform.

“We feel APD is wellpositioned to provide and extend what we do here at Nassau Container Port to the Family Islands and not just Abaco,” he said. “We understand the ports are gateways to all our island communities where the majority of cargo moves by freight, whether international cargo by Bahamian carriers or mail boat service to the Family Islands.

“The model is to provide a tremendous amount of efficiency and security to be able to provide infrastructure to our Out Islands at a best-in-class, world class level with what we’re able to do. Whether it’s ISPS security or continuity in operation of a facility safely, that’s what we feel we’re able to offer to the Out Islands.”

Mr Bethell, meanwhile, said APD plans to “expand the solar array” at its Arawak Cay port facility by 150 kilowatts (KW) in a bid to help offset soaring electricity costs and increased fuel expenses associated with operating its cranes and heavy equipment.

“We’ve seen an increase in the price of fuel that’s reflected in the performance and the numbers,” he added.

“We’ve seen an increase in utility bills and have seen higher bills in the summer months. As part of our mitigation and environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives we are expanding our solar array by 150 KW. That should come on stream in February next year. We won’t see the full benefit of that in financial year 2024, but are moving in the right direction.” APD plans to finance its major capital and investment projects from its own balance sheet resources, possessing more than $16m in cash

at end-June 2023, rather than take on loan or debt financing.

Mr Bethell also defended APD’s decision to increase the tariff rate for carriers needing to use a second crane as “not excessive”, adding that the new levies were in line with the average cost for “hiring and using a small crane” on New Providence.

The new tariffs are set to take effect on December 1, 2023, and more than double the existing rate for the first two hours from $800 to $2,000. Thereafter, the rate will be $1,000 per hour or $250 for every 15 minutes. Second crane overtime charges will jump from $450 per hour to $750 per hour, a 66.7 percent rise, with the rate for Sundays and public holidays doubling from $500 per hour to $1,000 per hour.

The APD chief said the tariff increase was the product of a “detailed analysis” that accounted for the cost of purchasing two new cranes over the past two years, plus the expenses incurred in operating the equipment - including fuel and labour - and repairs.

Noting that landing fees have not increased since APD began trading more than a decade ago, Mr Bethell said the port operator had to “double resources” when a carrier requested the use of a second crane to unload its cargo, and engage extra manpower and stevedores.

“It’s time to make sure we cover the investment in those cranes and human capital resources to provide labour to the equipment,” he added. “It’s not excessive, and is not designed to increase the cost of living from imports. No way.”

By CHRIS ILLING CCO @ ActivTrades Corp

F

or the past three months, the MSCI World index has been posting losses. The index is one of the most important building blocks for long-term equity savers.

The MSCI World is something like the Nissan Cube of exchange-traded index funds (ETFs). If you do not want to deal with the stock market on a regular basis, but want to spread your money widely and are looking for a general investment opportunity, you usually rely on the World index.

This popular ETF contains the shares of the 1,510 largest publicly-traded companies from 23 developed countries. This allows investors to participate in the opportunities of the global market with little financial investment and manageable risk. Even if one of the stocks included in the index

crashes, you will feel little impact on the total return, which has averaged around 9 percent per year in recent years.

But in recent months criticism of the World index has intensified. A look at the weighting shows that, although there is a broad spread across 23 industrialised countries and many different industries, US companies now make up by far the largest share.

The ten largest companies in the “World” index by market value are all from the US. These are Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Nvidia, Alphabet A & B, Tesla, Exxon and UnitedHealth.

These ten US companies alone account for 20.12

percent of the index. As a result, investors participate more in price fluctuations that specifically affect the US market. If you invest in the MSCI World, you are automatically betting on the long-term success of ‘Big Tech’ in the US. This annoys many investors who want to benefit from the global economy and spread their money more widely.

As long as the MSCI World was successful, this was considered a shortcoming, but the gains pushed the objections into the background.

Now the index is weakening, and criticism is getting louder.

Many investors wonder if the MSCI World still reflects what it claims to

be. The fact is that the US has experienced an unprecedented stock market boom in recent years, and is therefore providing a lot of capital. If you want to invest in global economic growth or the development of corporate earnings with the help of equities, most of your investment is in US equities and concentrated in the seven major US technology stocks.

INSOLVENCY ASSOCIATION ELECTS BOARD, OFFICERS THE ASSOCIATION representing Bahamian insolvency specialists has elected a new Board of Directors and officers for the three-year 2024-2026 term.

RISA Bahamas, the Restructuring and Insolvency Specialists Association of The Bahamas, in a statement said Sophia Rolle-Kapousouzoglou, the Lennox Paton attorney, has been appointed as its president. She has been joined

by Cheryl Simms as RISA Bahamas vice-president; Mcquel Basden as treasurer; and Nadia Wright as secretary.

The new Board of Directors, elected at RISA Bahamas’ annual general meeting on October 12, 2023, at the Margaritaville Beach Resort are: John Bain; Mcquel Basden; Lanadia Davis-Pratt; Cheryl Simms; Sophia Rolle-Kapousouzoglou; and Nadia A. Wright.

Mrs Rolle-Kapousouzoglou said: “I am honoured

and humbled to be elected as the president of RISA Bahamas. I look forward to working with the new Board of Directors, the officers and the members to advance the interests of restructuring and insolvency professionals in The Bahamas.

“I would also like to thank the immediate past president and founder of RISA, Zelma Wilson, for her vision, leadership and dedication, and Igal Wizman, outgoing director and former membership chairperson, for his work in assisting with growing RISA Bahamas.”

RISA Bahamas is a nonprofit organisation that aims to provide a forum for education, networking and advocacy for restructuring and insolvency professionals in The Bahamas. It also seeks to enhance the public awareness and understanding of the role and value of restructuring and insolvency professionals in the economy and wider society.

ARAWAK CAY PORT OPERATOR AWAITS ABACO BID OUTCOME FROM PAGE B1

HIGGS & Johnson Partners, Zarina M. Fitzgerald, Tara ArcherGlasgow and Audley D. Hanna, Jr. attended the IBA annual conference held in Paris last week.

THREE ATTORNEYS ATTEND GLOBAL LEGAL CONFERENCE THREE attorneys and partners from the Higgs & Johnson law firm attended the IBA annual conference held in Paris last week.

Zarina M. Fitzgerald, Tara Archer-Glasgow and Audley D. Hanna, Jr were present at a conference that is the legal profession’s largest international event. It was attended by more than 4,000 delegates.

Mrs Archer-Glasgow, Higgs & Johnson's litigation chair, was invited to speak at the session on how to track and recover crypto currency. This focused on the challenges involved in tracing and realising digital assets, and discussed

the potential benefits of an international model law to assist with this task.

There were more than 200 conference sessions and seminars on various branches of law, new trends in the development of legal business and the main changes that affect the global legal landscape.

The Higgs & Johnson delegates participated in a number of conference sessions, and attended many of the networking events including the Women’s Litigation breakfast. The firm also sponsored the litigation committee cruise that took place during the conference.

the Marsh Harbour port, not the Cooper’s Town port.”

Mrs Coleby-Davis, in a messaged reply to Tribune Business inquiries back in May, said then that the Attorney General’s Office is reviewing draft tender documents for bidding processes that will seek qualified groups to redevelop, operate and manage both the Marsh Harbour and North Abaco ports under a private-public partnership (PPP) arrangement.

She spoke just as the North Abaco Pastors Association, an alliance of pastors from the area between Treasure Cay and Crown Haven, served notice of their intent to launch a petition requesting that the Government ensure the $41m North Abaco port is fully opened and operational.

Captain Scott Bootle, a member of the North Abaco Port Company that approached the former Minnis administration about taking over the location via a PPP arrangement, said then that the Bahamian people have received little to no return on their investment in a facility that was constructed by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) and turned over to the Government in 2018.

While it was subsequently employed for the distribution of Hurricane Dorian relief, it is still today not used for commercial shipping purposes and has only a few Customs officers based there to deal with private shipments.

As for Marsh Harbour, the Government has been promising to seek a PPP arrangement for the port, which has never fully recovered or been rebuilt from Hurricane Dorian’s devastation, since the Minnis administration was in office in 2021.

Mrs Coleby-Davis and her ministry, shortly after the Davis administration was elected to office on September 16, 2021, issued an expression of interest (EOI) seeking to gain an understanding of the appetite financiers, developers and port managers have for taking over and reconstructing/operating the Marsh Harbour port.

Under a PPP model, private capital would be responsible for financing the Marsh Harbour port’s transformation and upgrade.

The facility would likely remain in the Government’s ownership, but be leased to a private sector operator for a long-term period, with the fees and charges levied on areas such as container throughput and storage helping to repay the earlier reconstruction financing while also generating an investment return for the manager and its shareholders.

The Government could also opt to take an equity ownership interest in the port operator itself, as it has done with its 40 percent interest in APD. Mr Bethell, who signalled APD’s interest in the Marsh Harbour port at that time, also told Tribune Business that the BISX-listed operator’s ambitions extend beyond both Nassau and Abaco.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 7, 2023, PAGE 3

Gov’t signs PPP for Bimini airport

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Government, likely with eyes on the constituency’s upcoming by-election, yesterday signed a deal for a private consortium to transform Bimini’s airport facilities.

Dr Kenneth Romer, director of aviation and the Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation’s deputy director-general, confirmed to Tribune Business that a private-public partnership (PPP) deal has been signed with the Bimini Airport Development Partners group.

Tribune Business reported back in August that the group’s members include Phoenix Infrastructure, a US-based infrastructure advisory and investment firm with offices in Washington D.C and New York; Plenary Group, another US infrastructure

group; and an airport and fixed-base FBO operator called Avports.

A presentation seen by this newspaper described Phoenix Infrastructure as a “black-owned infrastructure investor and developer with experience in airport development and economic impact within its projects”. Its website shows air transportation and airport operators (FBOs) are among its specialist areas of interest. It was founded in 2015 by two University of Chicago Business School colleagues, Jeremy Ebie and Chris Baeza.

Plenary was said to be a “best-in-class” long-term infrastructure investor and developer with projects across the US, Canada and the Caribbean”. Its website describes it as “one of the world’s leading investors, developers and asset managers of public infrastructure projects” or PPPs, numbering 59, and it is

owned by an institutional investor, CDPQ, with more than $300bn in assets under management. It focuses heavily on hospitals, bridges and other public sector facilities.

Avports, meanwhile, was described as a “best-inclass airport operator with a focus on small to mid-sized airport facilities across the US, Latin America and the Caribbean”.

Headquartered at Dulles Airport in Dallas, it is involved at multiple US airports in locations such as Los Angeles, Detroit, St Louis and Westchester.

The PPP deal will likely require Bimini Airport Development Partners to redevelop the existing airport, overseeing any necessary construction activity while providing and arranging all the capital financing.

The group will also then manage and operate the airport for fixed term, likely 20-30 years, levying

a variety of user fees and charges to recover its investment, pay-off financiers and generate a profit.

Dr Romer confirmed to this newspaper at the time that there have been “active discussions” over the Government partnering with private investors, infrastructure developers and airport operators for the management and operation of Bimini’s main aviation gateway.

Confirming that Bimini was not among the 14 Family Island airports in the $263m-strong package put out to bid via a public Request for Proposal (RFP), he added: “The development of airports is an ongoing process. As you know, there were airports targeted specifically, the 14 for PPPs. “Bimini was not part of the 14 airport PPPs but, outside of that, there were some airports targeted for development. I

do know there were active discussions in terms of development. Dr Romer said suggestions that Resorts World Bimini, operator of the island’s largest resort property, was involved in the PPP group are incorrect, adding that “they are not listed as an active developer in the airport process.

“Resorts World is not the proposed developer for that south Bimini airport. Resorts World is not targeted to be the developer of that airport,” Dr Romer added. Phoenix Infrastructure provides the common link for, in 2021, it was named as the entity providing the financing for Genting and RAV, the Resorts World Bimini owners, to take over management and operations of Bimini’s airport.

Algernon Cargill, the then-director of aviation, told this newspaper at that time: “We’re very excited

about it. This will be a PPP with that group that is similar to other PPPs. The plans are already in the preliminary stage.

“They’re looking at lengthening the runway and building a brand new terminal. We’re being very deliberate in our discussions to ensure we have take a well-developed proposal before we submit it to Cabinet for approval.

They’ll be the managing partner for the airport, Genting and RAV Bahamas. It’s something we’ve been planning for a couple of months. We’ve had several meetings, but contracts have not been executed.”

The plans in 2021 involved extending the runway from its present 6,000 feet to 8,000 feet, so that it can easily accommodate commercial passenger aircraft as well as private jets. The total investment being eyed was said to be $40m.

Renewed concerns ACCOUNTANTS SEEK TO BOOST INVESTIGATION BODY POWERS on foreign fishermen

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net A BAHAMIAN fisherman yesterday voiced concern that Dominicans, previously prevented from working on local boats under the Fisheries Act 2020, were getting around this law by obtaining citizenship Keith Carroll, the National Fisheries Association’s (NFA) president, admitted to Tribune Business “there is nothing we can do” if Dominican fishermen - previously employed on work permits - were legitimately gaining citizenship so they can work on Bahamian-owned boats.

“The former government stopped issuing work permits for them and implemented policies that you have to be a Bahamian to go on a boat,” he added, “but now we see this government giving a lot of Dominicans citizenship.

“The same Bahamian boats that used to have them before, they have them again. But the thing is they are Bahamians now because they have their passports. There is nothing we can do; the Bahamian government is doing this.

There is nothing we can do.”

The move to ban foreign fishermen working on Bahamian vessels faced stiff resistance from commercial

fisheries wholesalers and exporters. They, along with the wives of the Dominican fishermen, and their then-attorney, Alfred Sears KC, the current minister for immigration and national insurance, took the administration to court on constitutional grounds.

They argued that the Fisheries Act 2020 created “arbitrary and discriminatory treatment” for the Bahamian wives of the fishermen involved, but the original motion for a permanent injunction against the legislation failed. Mr Carroll, though, said: “This will be a problem. In the future, this will be a big problem.”

Meanwhile, the grouper season ends on December, 1 with prices for grouper similar to those for crawfish prices. “The grouper season is good because, for the past years that the grouper season was closed, we can see that we are catching more grouper for the past couple of months now,” Mr Carroll said.

“We can see where the groupers school. It is better for fishermen. They now have a chance to spawn.

The closure over the past years, where fishermen were not allowed to catch them, we can see the results now. We are doing better because they are allowed to reproduce now. You can get anywhere up to $8 or $10 per pound now for grouper.

It’s almost the same value as crawfish now.”

Consumer watchdog says complaints triple FROM PAGE B1 for those they consider easy targets and develop a skill-set around deception, aggression and criminality.

These unfair practices must be, and will be, penalised.

“The Consumer Protection Bill (2023) will enhance the protections available to those who fall victim to these tactics and ensure that we can effectively identify and hold these predatory goods and service providers accountable,” the Prime Minister continued.

“This includes the restriction of pyramid schemes. So, those who are prone to promoting these get-rich-quick pyramid schemes in The Bahamas to take advantage of people’s desire for success and financial stability, know that you will be held accountable and liable for the damage you cause to people’s lives......

“Just a few years back, there was a very popular trend being marketed to the Bahamian people – they called it a Loom. Those who launched businesses promoting Loom services essentially relied on a pyramid structure with no real product or service for sale. It relied on the money coming in from members to pay the members who started the Loom. Many people fell victim to this trend with hopes of making a rewarding return on their investments.

“This Bill now protects those who are targeted by similar pyramid schemes and holds the ones who target consumers with these schemes accountable.” Pyramid schemes, which typically rely on attracting new investor monies to pay-off those who invested earlier, have long been a plague on Bahamian society with numerous people complaining about being scammed but having little recourse outside the police and the court system.

“Section eight deals with pyramid schemes, and we believe the provision helps to move The Bahamas into the 21st century,” Ms Farrington-Austin said. “We actually are very equipped to deal with pyramid schemes now with our complaints department. We are continually building that. Very shortly we are going to be commencing a conclave for providers so they can understand the provisions.

“The Consumer Protection Bill allows us to deal with shoddy services and so, once the complainant comes in, our investigation department goes out to investigate.

I also want to highlight the Consumer Protection Bill allows us the opportunity to resolve complaints by alternative dispute resolution.

“It allows us the ability to negotiate, and that is always our first approach - to bring both the provider and the complainant together.”

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) is seeking to strengthen its investigation committee’s powers to take action when complaints are made against members, it was revealed yesterday.

Edgar Moxey, of the Institute’s legislative committee, told BICA’s accountant week seminars that the committee plans to present Ryan Pinder KC, the attorney general, with several proposed changes to legislation governing the accounting profession in the hope it will ultimately be passed by Parliament.

One amendment involves section 21(2) of the BICA Act, which speaks to the powers of its investigation committee. The Act presently says the committee “may seek agreement” with the person a complaint is made against before taking action.

Mr Moxey argued that the committee should not need to seek permission from the person that a complaint is made against before taking action, but should be “empowered” to exercise orders once they have been given the opportunity to object to the claims.

He said: “The investigation committee may seek agreement with a person against whom a complaint

is made before taking action, provided that the complainant, or thus the person filing that complaint, has an opportunity to object before making the orders.

“Our committee is saying: ‘Hold on a minute, should you really be seeking permission? Should the investigation committee really not be empowered to just go ahead and make the orders provided the person against whom the complaint has been made has an opportunity to object?’

“So you see the difference there where the person against whom the complaint is being made can object, but you can go ahead as a committee and go ahead and exercise orders.”

Mr Moxey added that although the law does not say “shall” seek permission, the inclusion of “may’” implies that the investigation committee needs permission before taking action against persons who are the subject of complaints.

He added: “Now if we look at BICA, the Act section 21(2), it reads thus: ‘The investigating committee may with agreement of the person.. that is the point.. even though it says may you know that there is a difference in law between the may and the shall.. but our small contention there is that you do not necessarily need somebody’s permission if they are being complained against before you can proceed. You

should give them only the opportunity to object.”

Mr Moxey also spoke about the need to address the definition of “privileged material”. He explained: “Privileged material means communication between a legal adviser, the client or any person representing their client, and any other person together with any enclosure or attachment with such communication created either in connection with the giving of legal advice to the client, or in connection with or in contemplation of legal proceedings and for the purpose of these proceedings. Save that a communication or item shall not be privileged material if it is created or held with the intention of furthering a criminal purpose.”

He explained that privileged material will not extend to information about fraud or illegal dealings, or when disclosure is required by legislation.

Mr Moxey said: “Now we do know that when you have privilege, there will always be exceptions. Primary exceptions would be where there is fraud or illegal purpose, clients waive the privilege or when the statute actually says or requires the disclosure.

“You cannot essentially hide behind privilege and some of the Acts, for example, we have Proceeds of Crime Act, the Securities Industries Act and the Financial Transactions

Reporting Act. So certain things you won’t be able to hide behind privileged material to get away with not disclosing.”

Mr Moxey explained that the proposed changes are based on an opinion letter penned by their attorneys and, once the changes have been discussed by BICA members, they will be passed to the Attorney General’s Office for preparation of a draft Bill.

He said: “The backdrop of this entire presentation today is an opinion letter that we got based on some of the views espoused by counsel that was passed on to our attorneys, Sears and Company, and they came back with an opinion letter.

And we as a committee kind of went through it and brought forward the issues.

“We seek to present the issues to you as a discussion. The next step is to have our counsel agree and finalise all the changes that we propose. And then, of course, we pass the information on to the attorney general, to the drafters who will then go ahead and draft all these changes.

“And then up comes a brand-new draft Bill. And BICA comes back to you as members in an EGM (extraordinary general meeting) and says here are the changes that we’re proposing. Do you agree or disagree? You pass them, and then we pass it on to get it through as a Bill into parliament”

PAGE 4, Tuesday, November 7, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Bahamians face extra 90-day wait to join NHI FROM PAGE B1 These include the extra 90-day enrollment period, which is being added to the existing “standard” time for Bahamians to be on-boarded to NHI. Mrs Butler explained that this will mean someone who enrolls with NHI on or after November 22, 2023, will have to wait until April 2024 to fully join. Existing NHI beneficiaries will not be impacted.

“New beneficiaries will now receive an enrollment date of 90 days plus the standard enrollment period,” she wrote. “For example, a beneficiary that enrolls on or before November 21, 2023, will receive a March 2024 enrollment date, and a beneficiary that enrolls on or after November 22, 2023, will receive an April 2024 enrollment date. Reassignment of current beneficiaries will not be impacted.”

Other “efficiencies” that NHI is now seeking will come from a push to “verify” its existing beneficiaries. This is intended to ensure its healthcare services are only being provided to Bahamians properly enrolled with the scheme.

“Verifying beneficiaries’ contact information is crucial to ensure services are provided to enrolled individuals. Accurate beneficiary information also facilitates effective communication and co-ordination

of care, ensuring that beneficiaries can access healthcare services and support as needed,” Mrs Butler said.

She also indicated that there will be limits on how many new medical providers become part of the NHI network, describing this as “capacity management”.

Mrs Butler said: “By only onboarding providers to meet population needs for services, we ensure adequate access to healthcare services as we continue to address the demand throughout The Bahamas.”

The use of laboratory services will also be managed, with NHI’s top executive writing: “Implementing clinical guidelines and laboratory utilisation reporting allows the authority to make informed decisions.”

Dr Sands, though, argued that Mrs Butler’s letter amounted to a fancy way of signalling that there are limits on the amount of healthcare services NHI can provide. “That is a high falutin way of rationing services,” he told Tribune Business of the 90-day enrollment period extension.

“Out of one side of the Government’s mouth, NHI is to provide universal primary care. Out of the other side of their pockets, they have clamped down on the financial spend to finance their rhetoric. They don’t want to move away from the rhetoric or talking about catastrophic care, and don’t

say where the money is coming from.

“It’s absolutely revealing.

It speaks to the fact that the worst kept secret is this government is having cash flow problems. Healthcare providers across the board are finding monies are not following. When we look at medical supply companies, I’m advised some of them had not been paid since August for various and sundry supplies to the healthcare sector.”

The NHI Authority, which oversees the national healthcare scheme, is due to receive a $46.2m taxpayer subsidy from the Government this fiscal year to finance its activities. “That’s the only place where it can come from,” Dr Sands, a former health minister, said of NHI’s financing. “I don’t think the NHI Authority will be late. The only place they get money from is the Government. The fact they’re late tells volumes.”

Doctors who provide services to NHI and its beneficiaries, speaking on condition of anonymity, yesterday confirmed they have been informed by the NHI Authority that October payments were late due to delays in it receiving the necessary disbursements from the Government.

“There have been delays on the physician side, and also on the laboratory side,” one said. “As far as I’m aware, they did catch back up. It was because of the funding from the

Government; the disbursement of finds from the central government to the NHI Authority.”

E-mails and documents seen by Tribune Business show that NHI providers were first alerted on October 13 that the month’s payment, due on the 15th, would be delayed. “Please be informed that unforeseen circumstances have led to a delay in the processing of capitation and laboratory payments for this month’s October 15th pay period,” wrote Gabrielle Bastian, NHI’s primary care provider and strategy manager.

“Therefore, it is anticipated that funds will not be disbursed as scheduled. An update will be provided by end of business on Monday, October 16. Thank you for your patience and understanding. We apologise for this payment delay and for any inconvenience it may cause. We greatly value your hard work and efforts on behalf of the Authority.”

This was followed by an October 16 e-mail from Ms Basden in which she said NHI was “working diligently to complete the payments to providers”.

A further follow-up, dated October 19, promised that 60 percent of what was due would be paid the following day.

“As we continue to work towards a resolution, the Authority will release 60 percent of payments to all providers tomorrow, Friday, October 20,” Ms

Bastian said. “We recognise the inconvenience that the delay and partial payment have caused, and we are working assiduously to release the remaining 40 percent to complete the payments for this pay period.”

The outstanding balance was paid on November 2, some 18 days late.

“Today, the remaining 40 percent payment for the October pay period was released. The NHI Authority sincerely apologises for the recent delays in payment; we take our commitment to providing payments as scheduled very seriously,” Mrs Butler wrote.

“Despite overwhelming public support, enrollment growth and dedicated efforts, the NHI resources have remained finite within this fiscal period. However, our resources will continue to be managed effectively and efficiently.

“With the increasing interest among providers and beneficiaries, the ongoing implementation of public health management interventions is imperative to achieve the goals and mission of NHI and further support the programme,” she added.

“This will be accomplished through critical partnerships with programme stakeholders, ongoing collaboration, communication, service commitments and innovation.

Therefore, the authority will continue implementing programme efficiencies throughout the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024.”

Dr Sands, though, yesterday argued NHI’s difficulties were a symptom of the Government’s wider cash flow issues and ability to meet its payables on time.

“We’ve seen a deterioration in the Government’s paying culture or paying behaviour,” he argued. “That’s across scholarship grants, NHI providers, temporary workers.

“Each different agency comes up with their different excuses; we had a glitch with the software and will make sure you get paid. I’m not sure I believe that. Fundamentally, it’s a problem with cash flow....I have also heard that a number of students entitled to scholarship subventions that they have not been paid. I can verify with personal knowledge that is the case. Those are students on international scholarships.

“Certainly it appears there is an issue with

payables and cash flow. The Government has been very defensive on this point. For students, contract workers it’s been devastating. There are a people facing serious hardship because of it,” Dr Sands continued.

“There are families in deep trouble because children had to leave school because the Government has not made good on its commitment to pay scholarships. I know that for a fact.

That’s not speculation or something that I’ve heard.

I would not make such a strong statement if I could not attest from personal information, certainly on the scholarship issue, that scholarships are not being paid.”

Mr Halkitis denied the existence of any government cash flow woes when the Opposition raised the issue in September and accused the Free National Movement (FNM) of “preaching gloom and doom” for political purposes. He also asserted that the Government is meeting all its obligations, is not broke and is paying all its bills in the ordinary course of business as soon as they can be verified.

Dr Sands, though, said the Government appeared to have little difficulty finding funds for West End and Bimini ahead of the upcoming by-election. “I arrived on Wednesday,” he added of Bimini. “The clinic there was really run down and decrepit, and badly in need of a paint job. It has been painted as of today [Monday]. You wonder how, all of a sudden, this became a priority.

“They can certainly find money to have a contractor paint the clinic in Bimini and fill in the potholes in the roads. That has happened in Eight Mile Rock and Holmes Rock. I’ve seen that with my own eyes in the last three weeks. They can find money when they want to find money.”

Dr Sands said the Government’s cash flow woes also explained why it has embarked on “the deep dive into revenue capture by increasingly draconian measures” involving the garnishing of bank accounts, which he argued has impacted the ability of Bahamians to pay food, light and other bills. He added that the Government is demanding taxpayers settle their debts in timely fashion but failing to do the same itself.

NOTICE

KB-HANYANG LIMITED N O T I C E IS HEREBY GIVEN as follows: (a)

KB-HANYANG LIMITED is in voluntary dissolution under the provisions of Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act 2000.

(b)

The dissolution of the said company commenced on the 1st November, 2023 when the Articles of Dissolution were submitted to and registered by the Registrar General.

(c)

The Liquidator of the said company is Bukit Merah Limited, The Bahamas Financial Centre, Shirley & Charlotte Streets, P.O. Box N-3023, Nassau, Bahamas

Dated this 7th day of November, A. D. 2023 _________________________________ Bukit Merah Limited Liquidator

NOTICE Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, (As Amended) NOTICE is hereby given that LINTENA ASSETS LIMITED is in dissolution and that the date of commencement of the dissolution is the 06th day of November, A. D. 2023.

ENERVO ADMINISTRATION LIMITED LIQUIDATOR Montague Sterling Centre, East Bay Street P.O. Box N-3924 Nassau, The Bahamas

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 7, 2023, PAGE 5

Early 2024 start to protect Junkanoo Beach’s $8.2m FROM PAGE B1 into the Bahamian economy every year. And a further $4.5m annual impact is felt from the 275 hotel jobs supported by the beach, which include 68 “net additional” posts.

And, describing the two Nassau harbour breakwaters as “a big deal”, due to the protection they provide against storm surge and large waves for assets such as the Arawak Cay commercial shipping port, he added that the necessary studies for their repair are now “substantially complete” and designs for their rebuilding are being “finalised”.

“Repairs to the breakwaters provide protection at the entrance [to] Nassau harbour, and if nothing is done the state of the structures will continue to worsen and can lead to total failure,” Mr Brown said.

However, their deterioration has not been identified as the primary cause of the erosion at Junkanoo Beach and Long Wharf.

“Other findings show that the damage to the breakwaters did not contribute to the erosion being seen along the beach shoreline and at the Long wharf seawall. To address the erosion along the beach, shoreline protection works will be necessary and may include groynes and beach nourishment along the shoreline.

Ecologically the area is highly stressed due to past dredging works and other activities in the area,” Mr Brown said.

Pointing to the economic benefits to be gained from protecting this area, he added: “Junkanoo Beach has a high economic value to our tourism product and vendors that utilise the beach. The total number of jobs supported at Junkanoo Beach and Long Wharf (direct, indirect and induced jobs) is estimated at 150 as a result of our social baseline study. This supports approximately $4.4m GVA per annum.

“The economic impact from the hotels supported

by Junkanoo Beach is estimated at $4.5m per annum as a result of the [estimated] 275 jobs supported, of which 68 are net additional jobs, as a result of our findings.

“The benefit of Junkanoo Beach to both locals and international tourists is estimated at $8.2m per annum..... The work at Junkanoo Beach [and] Long Wharf is estimated at 18 months for completion, and is projected to start within the first quarter of 2024.”

Mr Brown said around “50 percent” of the financing for the Junkanoo Beach and Long Wharf works has been obtained from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) loan intended to fund upgrades to coastal infrastructure

and its management so it is better positioned to withstand climate change’s impact.

As for the two harbour breakwaters, he added that some eight different studies on their condition and repairs have been conducted, including nearshore wave and shoreline assessments, engineering designs and physical modelling, along with a variety of environmental-related reviews.

“Assessments have been conducted and are substantially complete. Designs are being finalised for construction,” Mr Brown said. “At the eastern breakwater, the base or root of the breakwater has been undermined by hurricanes and storms over the past decade. Repairs are needed to the portion of the breakwater facing Arawak Cay, and the structure will need to be embedded into the nearby headland.

“At the western breakwater, there will be patch repairs at the most vulnerable portions of the breakwater. At these locations the concrete units - called Tribars - will be examined for structural integrity. Those that are in good condition will be reused. Units in poor condition will be crushed, remade and then reused.....

“These breakwaters reduce/ break wave energy from the powerful ocean waves that enter into the shipping channel, allowing

large cargo and cruise ships to enter and exit Nassau Harbor safely. It is necessary to invest the time and resources into the studies that have been done to ensure the appropriate design and repairs are option. These breakwaters are a big deal.”

A workshop involving multiple government agencies and Nassau harbour stakeholders was held at the Margaritaville resort on October 27, 2023, to review the present situation and progress on the proposed remediation plan.

“The Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, NEMA, the Office of the Prime Minister and others were invited to share the results of the studies that were conducted, the preliminary design options and modelling of those options from previous stakeholder engagements, and the next course of actions ahead of the construction phase,” Mr Browns said.

“It was also an opportunity for more feedback from stakeholders to give their input and voice concerns if any.” Private sector entities present included Nassau Cruise Port, Arawak Port Development Company (APD), the Nassau Container Port operator and nearby hotels, along with the Port Department and Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation.

Accountants push back on new Business Licence fines FROM PAGE B1 reported to BICA and the report may be refused.”

Ms Jackson added that the law imposes penalties of up to $150,000 on accountants who submit false reports due to “neglect, carelessness, willful default or fraud”.

She said: “The Department of Inland Revenue may also administratively impose a fixed penalty for any false statement in a report that is attributable to the practitioner’s neglect, carelessness, willful default or fraud. The maximum fixed penalty that may be imposed in $150,000.”

But during the questionand-answer period, one accountant attendee said practitioners have had to wait “months and months” for a response from the Department of Inland Revenue when they have queries or need clarification on tax reporting matters.

She suggested that the Department of Inland Revenue prioritise queries from BICA members as they

represent the majority of firms that require audits.

Prentino Albury, BICA’s president, meanwhile said the Institute is working with the University of the Bahamas (UoB) to allow Bahamian accountants to sit the CPA (certified public accountant) exam in The Bahamas - a move that would make this nation the first jurisdiction outside the US to be officially listed as a CPA examination site.

He said: “Our commitment to education and professional development remains unwavering.

We have expanded our range of topics and training programmes to meet the evolving needs of our members. These programs are meticulously designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge essential for thriving in the dynamic world of accounting.

“Additionally, we have advanced negotiations to enable the local administration of the CPA exams in collaboration with the University of the Bahamas, marking a historic milestone for both BICA

and our nation as the first jurisdiction outside of the United States and its territories to be officially listed as a CPA examination centre.”

Mr Albury added that BICA has been liaising with the Department of Inland Revenue and the Ministry of Finance on new legislation such as the Business Licence Act. He said: “We’ve been actively engaged in advocating for

policies and regulations that support the integrity and transparency of the accounting profession.

“We have created a working committee with our technical and SMP committees, collaborating with the Ministry of Finance and the Department of Inland Revenue to streamline new legislation, including the new Business Licence Act and its requirements.”

NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that MARITANE HENRY INNOCENT, #1 Hutcheson Street, Jerome Avenue, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of October 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

Dion Bethell, Arawak Port Development Company’s (APD) president and chief financial officer, told Tribune Business earlier this week that repairs to the harbour’s breakwaters are becoming ever-more urgent with “interruptions” to the unloading of cargo vessels “increasing” in recent months.

While services have typically been disrupted twice a year by high seas this has escalated to the point where, over the past four months, cargo operations have been disrupted on eight to ten days. “Our other concern, and the new minister of works [Clay Sweeting] had some consultations on this last week, is on repairs to the breakwater,” Mr Bethell told this newspaper.

“At the meeting last week we think everything is moving in a positive direction. We await patiently to see what the next steps are.”

He told Tribune Business, though, that the continued deterioration of the breakwaters - especially the one

directly in front of APD’s facilities - is making the need for repairs increasingly urgent.

“It’s reaching that point where, in prior years, where we may have had interruptions in service twice a year with great swells, in recent times, the last four months, we’ve maybe had eight to ten days where it’d made operating and working a vessel extremely difficult,” Mr Bethell explained.

“So much so that, at King tide, with prevailing winds and bad weather, we’ve had to ask some of the vessels to leave the berth until the weather calms down, so it’s increasing.” Mr Bethell said that, based on what was communicated in the recent meeting with Ministry of Works officials, “we remain very hopeful... things will manifest by way of repairs to the breakwaters”.

ADVERTISE TODAY! CALL THE TRIBUNE TODAY @ 502-2394

PAGE 6, Tuesday, November 7, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

'AMTRAK JOE' BIDEN VISITS DELAWARE TO PROMOTE $16 BILLION FOR PASSENGER RAIL PROJECTS

By SEUNG MIN KIM Associated Press PRESIDENT Joe Biden, arguably the nation's biggest Amtrak fan, visited a train maintenance shop in his home state of Delaware on Monday to showcase more than $16 billion in federal investments for rail travel along the busy Northeast Corridor, saying of long-delayed improvements, "we're finally getting it done."

The president highlighted spending to modernize 25 passenger train projects between Boston and Washington at an event in Bear, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Biden's home in Wilmington.

"Why, in the United States of America, do we not have the best rail system in the world?" Biden asked.

Noting that better train service in some of America's busiest locales would help ease car traffic and potentially reduce fossil fuel use, he added, "There's so much more we can do to better the environment and quality of life."

Amtrak runs about 800,000 trips daily on its Northeast Corridor, the White House says, which makes it the nation's busiest rail corridor. Monday's event combined two things close to Biden's heart: Amtrak and Delaware.

"It's good to be home," he declared. "There's no better place to make this announcement than in my home state."

The funding for the rail improvements comes from the roughly $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law that Biden signed nearly two years ago, one of several legislative achievements he's trumpeting in a presidential race that could feature a rematch against former President Donald Trump. From the law, Amtrak will get about $66 billion in new investments, according to the White House.

"I've been talking about this for a long time, I know," Biden said of rail improvements. "Finally, finally we're getting it done."

The president's trip was a brief break from dealing with problems around

the globe, especially in the Gaza Strip, where the Palestinian death toll from Israel's war with Hamas surpassed 10,000, according to the region's Hamas-run Health Ministry.

Biden, who has made infrastructure spending a centerpiece of his reelection campaign, used his speech to criticize Republican backers of Trump's "Make America Great Again" movement for wanting to "slash" Amtrak's budget.

"We're trying to make train travel easier, faster, safer, more reliable," he said. "They're trying to make it slower, harder and less safe."

Before his formal remarks, a beaming Biden chatted and laughed with Amtrak maintenance shop workers. He asked one how she was doing and when the reply came, "Good, how are you?" Biden responded, "Well, I got about $16 billion for you," drawing laughs.

He told another of the coming public works spending, "You know you're going to be getting a lot of new trains, man." A blue

PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN, center left, meets with Thomas Rapposelli Jr., left, Sterling Rapposelli Jr., center right, and Tom Rapposelli who introduced him before speaking at the Amtrak Bear Maintenance Facility, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, in Bear, Del. Photo:Matt Rourke /AP and white sign along the tracks read "Northeast Corridor Improvement" and "Project founded by President Joe Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law" During his 36 years as a senator, Biden traveled back and forth from Wilmington to Washington daily.

Wall Street drifts to a mixed and quiet finish following last week's big swings

By STAN CHOE AP Business Writer U.S. STOCKS drifted to a mixed finish Monday as Wall Street's wild recent moves calmed a bit.

The S&P 500 added 7.64 points, or 0.2%, to 4,365.98, even though the majority of stocks within it and across Wall Street weakened. The index was coming off its best week of the year, which itself came on the heels of several months of sharp losses.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 34.54, or 0.1%, to 34,095.86, and the Nasdaq composite gained 40.50, or 0.3%, to 13,518.78.

The flashpoint for the stock market's movements in both directions has been what the bond market is doing, and it regressed Monday following its own extreme moves.

The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.64%.

That's up from 4.57% late Friday, but it's still below the perch above 5% that it reached last month, its

highest level since 2007.

High yields hurt prices for stocks and other investments, while slowing the economy and raising the pressure on the financial system.

This upcoming week looks to have fewer big events on the calendar that could shake financial markets. It's a slower week for corporate profit reports, with roughly 50 companies in the S&P 500 set to say how much they earned during the summer. That's

down from about 150 a week before.

Constellation Energy rose 6.5% after it reported better results for the latest quarter than analysts expected.

Berkshire Hathaway 's Class B stock fell 1.5% after it reported a loss for its latest quarter over the weekend. Much of the loss was because of drops in the value of some of Berkshire Hathaway's investments on paper. Looking only at its operating profit, Warren

The president says he's logged more than 1 million miles on Amtrak during his public service career, and displayed firsthand knowledge of the route on Monday.

Speaking about a key rail tunnel in Baltimore, Biden said it was a "major

checkpoint, but it's also a major choke point." He talked about leaks there that can cause delays, as well as sharp curves elsewhere that force crowded trains to slow way down.

"You don't need to tell me," Biden said of frequent train delays. "I lived it."

Buffett's company beat analysts' expectations.

Even more companies than usual in the S&P 500 have been beating Wall Street's profit forecasts this reporting season. The index looks to be on pace to deliver its first growth in earnings per share in a year.

"Don't worry," strategists at Bank of America led by Savita Subramanian wrote in a BofA Global Research report. "Earnings were fine."

Trading of WeWork's stock was halted amid speculation about its financial health. It's plunged 98.5% this year to less than $1.

The events with perhaps the most potential to shake markets this upcoming week are speeches on the schedule by officials from the Federal Reserve.

Last week, the Federal Reserve held its main interest rate steady for a second straight time, leaving it at its highest level since 2001.

It's jacked up its federal funds rate from nearly zero in hopes of getting high inflation under control.

Perhaps more importantly for markets, Fed

Chair Jerome Powell also hinted that a swift rise in Treasury yields since the summer — and the tumult that created in financial markets — could act as substitutes for further hikes to rates if they remain "persistent." That's because they could be slowing the economy and putting downward pressure on the economy by themselves.

A report from the Federal Reserve Monday said that significant numbers of loan officers at banks reported tightening their standards to lend money.

Many banks cited a less favorable or more uncertain outlook on the economy. A slowdown in lending could tap the brakes further on the economy.

Powell's comments last week ignited hopes that the Fed may be done hiking interest rates. Traders also increased bets the central bank could begin cutting rates by this upcoming summer. Cuts to rates can act like steroids for financial markets.

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL The Public is hereby advised that I, STEPHEN BARRY FORBES of #88 Sea Beach, P.O Box CR-56794, New Providence, Bahamas intend to change my name to BARRY STEPHEN FORBES. If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Chief Passport Officer, P.O.Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that MECENE MERTILUS of George Town, Exuma, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 7th day of November, 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that OCCEAN INNOCENT, #1 Hutcheson Street, Jerome Avenue, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 31st day of October 2023 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

PAGE 8, Tuesday, November 7, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

BODY AND MIND

Red Ribbon Balls celebrates return with magical Arabian night Gala event supports restoration of Bahamas AIDS Foundation

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

WITH enchanting evening featuring Moroccan belly dancers, bejewelled camels and vibrant colours, the Bahamas AIDS Foundation’s annual Red Ribbon Ball made its magical return on Saturday under the theme “1001 Arabian Nights.”

The 27th edition of the ball was hosted at Atlantis Paradise Island after more than a three– year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis along with 500 guests dressed in gowns, tuxedos and traditional Middle Eastern to attend the gala affair.

Atlantis’ ballroom was transformed into a Moroccan paradise by the foundation’s long-time sponsor, Wildflowers Events.

Some guests took pictures with life-size statues of camels and elephants, while others danced the night away to the live bands that performed.

Lady Camille Barnett, president of the Bahamas AIDS Foundation, said the funds raised from the ball were desperately needed to restore the organisation’s financial stability since the pandemic.

The foundation’s outreach programme for children impacted by HIV/AIDS was stopped during COVID; this included psychological counselling, tutoring, and five hot meals a week.

“Now we are doing grocery delivery. Obviously, it’s just supplementing what they have, we can’t provide all of their grocery needs,” said Lady Barnett.

“Because we realise that food security is still very much an issue in the Bahamas.”

During the ball, the late former Health Minister Dr Perry Gomez was honoured for his critical work in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Dr Gomez founded and directed the National HIV Programme of the Bahamas and created the AIDS Clinical Services Programme at the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH).

Lady Barnett said despite the exceptional work that has been done in the fight against HIV/ AIDS, there is still stigma surrounding the disease. Funds from the ball, she said, will assist in the foundation’s mission to reduce this stigma.

(Photos/Jade Russell) Antoinette Russell, co-chair of the Red Ribbon Ball, thanked their key sponsors for making the event possible.

The sponsors included John Bull, Fidelity, Commonwealth Brewery, Bahamas Striping Group of Companies, Commonwealth Bank, JS Johnson Insurance, and many more.

Ms Russell said the ball was sold out to capacity and some people who tried to purchase tickets at the last minute had to be turned down.

In previous years, the ball has raised 50 percent of needed funds for the foundation. Officials hope when they tally to numbers, this year’s ball will also boast a profit.

Meanwhile, board members of the foundation said this year’s theme “1001 Arabian Nights” symbolised a deeper message. The theme represents the many stories of people who are HIV/AIDS positive but remain resilient.

The board members said, “HIV and AIDS doesn’t have to be a death sentence anymore.”

Benefits of increasing upper body strength FOR many adults, a typical workout routine focuses on the lower half or core, whether you enjoy running, dancing or playing sports.

Yet a lack of focus on upperbody strength can result in stooped posture or being unable to lift and carry heavy items. As such, it’s important not to exclude upper body strengthening from your regular fitness routine.

Defining the upper body area The upper body refers to your arms, forearms, shoulders, chest and hands. These muscles create a bridge from the chest, limbs and torso to your spinal column.

Strengthening can help improve posture, athletic performance, and confidence with everyday tasks and decreases age-related atrophy.

This specific region includes muscles like: UÊ/ iÊÀ Ì>Ì ÀÊVÕvv UÊ i Ì `ÃÊ ÀÊÃ Õ `iÀÊ ÕÃV ià UÊ Vi«ÃÊ> `ÊÌÀ Vi«Ã UÊ*iVÌ À> ÃÊ ÀÊV iÃÌÊ ÕÃV iÃ

In good form, these stabilising muscles:

Why should you focus on upper body strength? Consider the following benefits:

Helps to improve posture

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Muscle imbalances can emerge in many people who have sedentary desk jobs. The chest muscles become tight, the back is loose and the shoulders begin to roll forward, causing you to hunch.

Strengthening the back and shoulder muscles can make it easier to correct this posterior imbalance and contributes to greater core strength.

Beyond the effects of an office job, workouts focused on the upper body benefit runners and cyclists, as they tend to lean forward and develop resulting posture issues.

Improved metabolism Strength training is key for targeting your upper body muscles and can increase muscle mass.

This assists with raising your metabolic rate, causing your body to burn more calories when at rest.

Maximising your workout A strong upper body can have a ripple effect through the rest

of your workout and physical activities by:

UÊ «À Û }Ê V À` >Ì ]Ê Ê matter the activity.

UÊ iÛi « }Ê ÃÌÀ }iÀÊ >À Ã]Ê which are necessary for swimming, running and cycling.

UÊ iVÀi>Ã }Ê ÕÀÞÊÀ Ã Ã]ÊÜ V Ê can increase when you work out with poor posture.

UÊ -ÌÀi }Ì i }Ê Þ ÕÀÊ >À ÃÊ > `Ê core.

UÊ i « }ÊÞ ÕÀÊL `ÞÊLÕÀ ÊV> ries at a faster rate.

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Better heart health The upper body also encompasses the heart. Strengthening your cardiac muscle can have a positive effect on the circulatory and cardiovascular systems by: UÊ iÛ>Ì }Ê ÝÞ}i Ê iÛi à UÊ i « }ÊÜ Ì ÊÜi } ÌÊV ÌÀ UÊ ,i`ÕV }Ê >ÀÌiÀÞÊ `> >}iÊ related to high blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol UÊ ÜiÀ }Ê i>ÀÌÊ >ÌÌ>V Ê > `Ê heart failure risks.

Injury prevention

For athletic activities, a stronger back and shoulder muscles improve your posture, which can lessen injuries related to poor form. When it comes to everyday tasks, stronger upper body muscles help you lift heavy items.

Without strengthening these areas, your lower back muscles often have to compensate for the arms and shoulders, which can result in strain, unexplained pain or an overuse injury.

Fall assistance As we age balance and saving reactions can be compromised increasing the risk for falling.

When trying to raise yourself from the ground you need arm and chest strength to assist you so you can push up on or pull on furniture etcetera to get up. Remaining on the floor because you are too weak to get up can lead to further injury or complications.

If you’re recovering from an injury or preparing your body for physical activity, learn more about how physiotherapy intervention can improve upper body strength safely.

UÊ ÀʵÕiÃÌ ÃÊ> `ÊV i ÌÃ]Ê V> Ê > > Ê ÃÌiÀ `` iÌ Ê>ÌÊ 356 4806, e-mail genesisphysiotherapy@gmail.com, or visit www.physiotherapybahamas. com.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 7, 2023, PAGE 9

Embracing change: Movember’s impactful message for men’s health AS we turn over a new page in our calendars and inch closer to a new year, November heralds the arrival of Movember – a movement that goes beyond the bristles and embodies a powerful message of solidarity and proactive health advocacy.

What began as an unusual idea in an Australian pub has evolved into a global phenomenon, uniting individuals in a shared mission to raise awareness about men’s health issues and promote a culture of open dialogue and support.

The roots of Movember trace back to a fateful conversation in a pub in Adelaide, Australia, in 2003.

A group of friends, reminiscing about the bygone era of moustaches, sparked an idea to reintroduce the ‘mo’ (slang for moustache) into modern fashion.

The next year, a different collective in Melbourne put together an occasion wherein 30 men pledged to grow a moustache for 30 days, aiming to raise awareness about prostate cancer and depression among men. Adam Garone, Travis Garone, Luke Slattery, and Justin Coughlin motivated 26 other companions with the aim of reviving the practice of growing moustaches. This marked the inception of the movement.

Movember is not just about growing moustaches; it is a symbol of empowerment, encouraging men to take charge of their wellbeing and embrace a proactive approach to health management.

It is about cultivating a community where conversations about prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention are not just encouraged but embraced with compassion and understanding.

Over the years, Movember has transcended geographical boundaries, fostering a global network of ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Mo Sistas’ dedicated to making a tangible difference in the realm of men’s health. The funds raised have paved the way for groundbreaking research, innovative treatments, and vital support programs, offering a glimmer of hope for individuals and families

navigating the complexities of these health challenges.

Beyond the philanthropy, Movember represents a fabric of human connections, transcending societal norms and gender barriers to create a safe space for empathy and support. It invites us all to be active participants in a movement that champions not only physical well-being but also emotional resilience and community solidarity.

action and a concerted effort to dismantle the pervasive barriers that inhibit men from accessing essential mental health services.

As per the Australian Bureau of Statistics, an unsettling reality surfaces: men, in comparison to their female counterparts, exhibit a notable reluctance in seeking aid for mental health afflictions, with a staggering disparity of 28 percent against 41 percent. As the heart-

encourages seeking help without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Furthermore, the research highlights the significance of involving key stakeholders, including mental health professionals and community leaders, in developing gender-sensitive approaches.

This collaborative effort is crucial in challenging harmful gender stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive understanding of mental health within com-

THE UROLOGY DOCTOR IS IN...

Dr Greggory Pinto

As we embark on another Movember journey, let us remember the transformative power of collective action.

Whether it is cultivating your own moustache, participating in fundraising events, or sparking meaningful conversations within your circles, each contribution, no matter how small, serves as a testament to the enduring impact of united efforts. Movember encourages us to be more than just observers; it calls us to be advocates for change, architects of a world where men’s health is not just a fleeting topic but a perpetual priority.

Men’s mental health and suicide Amid mounting evidence of a staggering two to fourfold surge in male suicide rates relative to their female counterparts, alarming new findings reveal a disturbing truth: men, when grappling with harrowing emotional turmoil, often demonstrate an entrenched reluctance and disconcerting resistance to seeking critical mental health assistance.

This troubling phenomenon points to a pressing societal predicament, demanding urgent

breaking statistics reveal, men take the burden of three-quarters of all suicide-related deaths.

A recent study by Paul Sharp and team from Australia, underscores the critical need for a more nuanced approach to mental health support for men, considering their specific challenges and barriers to seeking help. It sheds light on the significant impact of traditional masculine norms on men’s attitudes towards mental health and their reluctance to engage with support services.

Understanding how societal expectations of masculinity can influence men’s perceptions of mental health is key to creating effective intervention strategies.

The study suggests that addressing men’s emotional expression and promoting a more open dialogue about mental health could help break down the stigma surrounding seeking support. It emphasises the importance of providing accessible and relatable mental health resources in familiar settings, which can encourage men to take proactive steps towards improving their mental well-being. By creating safe and non-judgmental spaces for men to discuss their mental health concerns, we can foster a more supportive environment that

munities.

It emphasizes the need to create tailored mental health programs that align with men’s preferences and comfort levels, thereby facilitating their active engagement in seeking and receiving support.

Cancers specific to men Prostate and testicular cancers are serious health concerns for men, highlighting the need for increased awareness and early action. Prostate cancer, a common issue among men worldwide, affects the prostate gland, which is important for reproduction. While early signs might not be obvious, more advanced cases can lead to problems with urination, bone pains, loss of weight, paralysis, and other discomforts.

Regular screenings like the PSA test and digital rectal exams can catch prostate cancer early, leading to better chances of successful treatment and improved health overall.

On the other hand, testicular cancer, though not as common as prostate cancer, mostly affects younger men between 15 and 44 years old. This cancer involves unusual growth in the testicles and needs quick medical attention

for better treatment results. Being aware of symptoms like lumps, swelling, or discomfort in the testicles is crucial for catching it early. Men can also help by doing regular self-exams, checking their testicles for any unusual changes.

This simple practice can make a big difference by catching any issues early on improving overall outcomes in these men.

Ultimately, Movember is not just about the growth of facial hair; it is about the growth of a movement that nurtures hope, compassion, and understanding.

So, let us wear our moustaches with pride, not just as a fashion statement but as a symbol of our unwavering support for the well-being of men everywhere.

Together, let us cultivate a world where conversations about men’s health are not confined to a single month but flourish as a yearround commitment to holistic wellness and solidarity.

UÊ ÀÊ Ài}} ÀÞÊ * Ì Ê ÃÊ >Ê board-certified Bahamian urolo} ÃÌÊ > `Ê >«>À ÃV « VÊ ÃÕÀ}i °Ê He can be contacted at OakTree Medical Center #2 Fifth TerÀ>ViÊ > `Ê Õ ÌÊ , Þ> Ê Ûi Õi]Ê >ÃÃ>Õ]Ê > > >ÃÆÊ /i i« iÊ qÊ ­Ó{Ó®Ê ÎÓÓ ££{x ÇÆÊ i > \Ê Üi V iJÕÀ }ÞV>ÀiL> > >ðV Ê ÀÊÛ Ã ÌÊÌ iÊÜiLà Ìi\ÜÜÜ°ÕÀ }ÞV>ÀiL> > >ðV °

Runners and walkers spread ‘Good Energy’ as they enjoy Halloween fitness event

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

EVERY year, the Good Energy Run attracts more and more walkers and runners looking to engage in collective fun and fitness.

This year was no different, as the event, hosted by the Early Birds Run Club, attracted scores of participants, from the young to the not so young, who all were in for a refreshing experience on the streets of Nassau.

Enthusiastic walkers and runners took part in the Good Energy Run Haunted Hustle, which featured 5k (3 mile) and 10k (6.2 mile) routes along the coastline of western New Providence.

The starting point was at Arawak Cay and the 5k turnaround point was at Go-SlowBend. The 10k turnaround point was the first round-a-bout just after The Reserve at Baha Mar. Regina Smith, local fitness expert, said the run has been growing by leap and bounds. She said it has also been very encouraging to see how more and more people are recognising the need to get physically fit.

“This year was extra special because we branded the event as a Halloween event where we invited participants to dress up for the race,” she said.

Regina said the feedback from those that participated was also overwhelmingly positive.

“We got really good feedback from the participants and they thoroughly enjoyed their experience. We also incorporated a mini health fair, face painting artist and a DJ. Next year, we may need to think about having a dance floor because so many people were dancing and having a good time in the race village area,” she said.

“There are just so many races every weekend of every month, but a small race community here on New Providence. It’s hard to predict what your numbers and turnout will be. But we were successful in our efforts.”

The Good Energy Run was launched a few years ago in an effort to bring individuals together to engage in community fitness.

Now that there is a consistent interest in the event, organisers are looking ahead to see how they can evolve the event.

“Participants always have a great experience and the race community needs a short distance event that is professional, fun and family-oriented; not so much competitive, time-based and awareness” driven. Every year after the event we do a complete assessment of the event; look at where can improve; listen to feedback from our participants, and make improvements the following years. We also look at what international races are incorporating and set new goals every year to make it more creative and fun. It’s very exciting,” said Regina.

“Listening to our participants’ feedback, we are going back to the drawing board and figuring out a way to make the bigger the the Good Energy Run Haunted Hustle even more Spooktacular in 2024.”

PAGE 10, Tuesday, November 7, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Tech expert Nekia helps provide smallscale local producers with greater market access NEKIA Brice is a problem solver at heart. And she uses modern technology to both resolve business issues and address societal issues.

As part of AFINIT Consulting, an IT consultancy developing a digital farmer’s market, Nekia’s role focuses on data analytics and digital transformation.

“We empower organisations by harnessing data to create insightful reports for decision-making in a fraction of the time it usually takes when doing it manually.

We also assist with automation of business processes in order to achieve operational efficiencies,” she explained to Tribune Woman.

Nekia is currently in the process of building an online marketplace for small-batch, sustainable food brands around the world under the name Swapacrop (swapacrop. com). The aim is to formalise informal value chains and provide small-scale local producers with greater market access in order to grow their businesses.

This project has allowed Nekia to become a finalist in the Deltec Initiative for Young Entrepreneurs cohort vying for $10,000 and a year-long ambassadorship with Deltec Bank and Trust Limited.

“I am excited about the potential that the future holds,” she said.

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net

NEKIA Brice

SWAPACROP produce Nekia was very young when she started her journey.

“My curiosity and eagerness to learn led me to dive into

ELECTRICAL Installation student Anderson Johnson signs the pledge card, indicating his stand against violence towards women and girls

technology at a young age. My dad bought my first computer at the age of 13. It was that summer that I also wanted a summer job

and no one wanted to hire me because of my age. As I result, I started to teach myself web development in the hopes of now starting my own business as an alternative to employment,” she said.

Nekia said much of what she has learned is self-taught. She enjoys learning and considers her quick learning ability a gift from God. “I pursued formal education at the University of the Bahamas and Montclair State University,

BTVI’s Dean of Student Affairs Racquel Bethel

BTVI’s handyman_carpenter Rayford Rox joined the White Ribbon campaign

Male BTVI students take a stand against violence towards women and girls IN A stand against violence towards women and girls, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) united with the world’s largest movement of men and boys during this year’s White Ribbon campaign.

Several male students and staff repeated a pledge which stated, “Our strength is not for hurting.

I promise never to use, excuse

or remain silent about men’s violence against women,” followed by the signing of a pledge card.

They also were pinned with a white ribbon, which is a symbol of peace and their opposition to violence against women and girls.

The brief ceremony held at BTVI’s main campus, Old Trail Road, was led by the Student Affairs Department in partnership

with the Crisis Centre and Rotary Road to Peace Organisation.

BTVI’s Dean of Student Affairs, Racquel Bethel, said the pinning ceremony was the institution’s way of working towards ending violence against women and girls, promoting gender equity, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity.

“We want to show our support opposing violence against women.

It is very meaningful. There is too much in the news about violence.

We need to make a concerted effort in standing up against violence,” said Ms. Bethel.

BTVI’s interim president, Dr Linda A Davis, gave her support to the movement, adding that it is imperative that all individuals

Oprah Winfrey selects Jesmyn Ward’s ‘Let Us Descend’ for her book club

By HILLEL ITALIE AP National Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Oprah Winfrey’s new book club pick highlights an author she has long admired, Jesmyn Ward.

Winfrey announced she had selected Ward’s “Let Us Descend,” which comes out this week. “Let Us Descend” is a slave narrative set in the 19th century and follows a teenage

girl’s journey across the American South. Ward, 46, is among the most acclaimed writers of her generation. Her previous works include the novels “Salvage the Bones” and “Sing, Unburied, Sing,” both winners of the National Book Award.

In 2022, she became the youngest winner of the Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction.

“I have read all of Jesmyn Ward’s books and have been a

JESMYN Ward

fan of her writing for years,” Winfrey said in a statement. “‘Let Us Descend’ is a vital work for our

as well as completed post-graduate courses at Depaul University.

Looking back, I would not change anything. Every step in my journey led me to where I am today,” she said.

“In my field of work, I find tremendous satisfaction in implementing technologies that resolve seemingly impossible issues or that simplifies difficult tasks within organisations. It is deeply fulfilling when I see technology we have built in the hands of users and their burden is now lifted.”

Nekia’s day-to-day responsibilities involve overseeing project schedules, ensuring teams remain on track, and staying updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.

“Presently, I’m deeply involved in exploring the practical applications of AI and blockchain in the business landscape,” she said.

Nekia believes women like her will make their influence strongly felt in the near future.

“As women’s roles continue to expand, we will witness a greater infusion of feminine energy in our society. That nurturing spirit and natural intuition inherent within women will be felt more within organisations as well as in the realm of politics,” she said.

If she could give little girls one piece of advice, Nekia said it would be for them to always be confident and remember that true happiness lives where passion meets purpose.

“Strive to live your purpose and contribute toward making the world a better place,” she said..

The Deltec Initiatives for Young Entrepreneurs has selected six entrepreneurs, including Nekia Brice.

These women-led companies are among other entrepreneurs working with Deltec Bank and Trust employees (volunteers) to develop their business modules and enhance their elevator speeches, leading up to a pitch competition on December 5, 2023.

If they win, they will follow in the footsteps of last year’s winner, Lakeisha Rolle, founder of the Financial Academy.

culture and I’m so excited to have her newest offering as part of our Book Club.”

Ward has also written such nonfiction as “Men We Reaped” and “Navigate Your Stars.” In

take a stand against violence towards women and girls.

“BTVI stands united with all global causes of meaning and this is one. We are all equal and united in this front as we seek to remedy any such ills that befall us,” said Dr Davis.

The White Ribbon Campaign is led by men to end male violence against women and girls.

The movement began in Canada in 1991 following a massacre of female students at a university in Montreal. The campaign encourages males to actively show their opposition by wearing a white ribbon and to rethink any deeply embedded, toxic ideas of masculinity.

The White Ribbon movement is active in over 60 countries.

a statement last Tuesday, she expressed her lifelong admiration for Winfrey and how she was “deeply moved by Ms Winfrey’s ability to challenge herself creatively and her unabashed championing of literature and the written word.”

“I tried to emulate all of this in my own life, and over the last 20 years, I worked my way through rejection and revision to now, when I find myself in a momentous point in my career,” her statement reads. “I am so honoured to contribute to the discussion at the heart of her club, which over the years, has considered what it means to be American, to be human, to be alive, to hope and yearn, with each outing. What a joy to add my own voice to her chorus!”

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 7, 2023, PAGE 11

Patrons are ‘Pretty in Pink’ as they help raise money for breast cancer screenings

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Writer acadet@tribunemedia.net

FOR two hours last Thursday, John Bull on Bay Street closed its doors to accommodate attendees of the eighth annual Pretty in Pink party to raise funds for the Cancer Society of the Bahamas with their ongoing breast cancer screenings.

Patrons of the event were pampered, took part in a raffle, enjoyed champagne and hors d’oeuvres, as well as shopping, all in aid of fundraising.

One of the event’s organisers, Kelly Meister, said the Inner Wheel Club of East Nassau was the original host of Pretty in Pink.

As she was president of the club at the time, Kelly was inspired to hold an event to raise awareness about the importance of breast cancer screenings.

“My sister Tracy Cartwright had recently died at the age of 39 from breast cancer. I supported her throughout her journey and had attended an event held for breast cancer patients’ families and friends at the hospital where she was given treatment. Many

women undergoing chemotherapy will lose their hair, all their hair, and that includes eyelashes and eyebrows. Patients were given make-up ideas to help with hair loss and to make them feel attractive and whole again. It was a celebration, and everyone had a ball,” said Kelly.

Together with Heather Lightbourn-Peterson, she came up with the first Pretty in Pink event, held

at John Bull’s Cosmetic Boutique in 2012.

Kelly said John Bull fully supported the event from the beginning.

“The (inaugural) night was full of pampering and makeup techniques and raising funds for the Cancer Society. It was so popular that the next year it had to move across Bay Street to the John Bull

main store to accommodate more attendees,” she said.

Inner Wheel continued to host the event until the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020.

“The Inner Wheel Club was dissolved, but I along with Mrs Lightbourn and John Bull wanted Pretty in Pink to continue. Coldwell Banker and Blue Lagoon Island fully supported the event this year and sponsored along

with John Bull to host the first Pretty in Pink since 2019. It is important to note that Bristol Cellars also made a donation towards the event,” said Kelly.

All money raised at last week’s event will be donated to the Cancer Society of the Bahamas, earmarked for their breast cancer support.

“Everyone involved is thrilled to once again have hosted or attended this wonderful event. It was a tremendous success with many attendees,” she said.

“Several women that have survived breast cancer or are currently in treatment attend each year and are always pleased to do so. It’s a positive event in the face of a terrible disease and everyone needs to feel uplifted and supported. It’s one evening where everyone can gather and do something wonderful for those battling breast cancer in a positive and celebratory way. That is the whole intention of Pretty in Pink.”

THE WEATHER REPORT

5-DAY FORECAST

ORLANDO

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 62° F/17° C

TAMPA

TODAY

TONIGHT

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

UV INDEX TODAY

A couple of afternoon showers

Partly cloudy

Mostly sunny and nice

Mostly sunny and pleasant

Partly sunny and delightful

Breezy in the morning; mostly sunny

The higher the AccuWeather UV IndexTM number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection.

High: 83°

Low: 72°

High: 84° Low: 72°

High: 84° Low: 73°

High: 87° Low: 74°

High: 84° Low: 76°

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

90° F

74° F

90°-73° F

89°-76° F

94°-77° F

92°-77° F

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 63° F/17° C

E

W

ABACO

S

N

High: 80° F/27° C Low: 74° F/23° C

8-16 knots

S

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 70° F/21° C

7-14 knots

FT. LAUDERDALE

FREEPORT

High: 84° F/29° C Low: 72° F/22° C

E

W S

E

W

WEST PALM BEACH

N

High

Ht.(ft.)

Low

Ht.(ft.)

3:08 a.m.

3:23 p.m.

2.3 2.6

9:13 a.m.

9:50 p.m.

1.1 0.8

ALMANAC

Wednesday 3:58 a.m.

4:10 p.m.

2.5 2.6

10:08 a.m. 1.0 10:31 p.m. 0.7

Statistics are for Nassau through 1 p.m. yesterday Temperature High ................................................... 81° F/27° C Low .................................................... 75° F/24° C Normal high ....................................... 82° F/28° C Normal low ........................................ 71° F/22° C Last year’s high .................................. 87° F/31° C Last year’s low ................................... 72° F/22° C Precipitation As of 1 p.m. yesterday ................................. 0.00” Year to date ................................................ 48.25” Normal year to date ................................... 36.30”

Thursday

4:43 a.m.

4:54 p.m.

2.7 2.6

10:57 a.m. 0.8 11:09 p.m. 0.5

Friday

5:23 a.m.

5:35 p.m.

2.9 2.6

11:42 a.m. 0.6 11:45 p.m. 0.3

Saturday

6:02 a.m.

6:14 p.m.

3.0 2.6

12:24 p.m. 0.4 ---------

Sunday

6:41 a.m.

6:54 p.m.

3.2 2.6

12:21 a.m. 0.2 1:05 p.m. 0.3

Monday

7:19 a.m.

7:34 p.m.

3.3 2.5

12:58 a.m. 0.1 1:47 p.m. 0.2

The exclusive AccuWeather RealFeel Temperature® is an index that combines the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body—everything that affects how warm or cold a person feels. Temperatures reflect the high and the low for the day.

N

High: 82° F/28° C Low: 69° F/21° C

MIAMI

High: 86° F/30° C Low: 73° F/23° C

7-14 knots

KEY WEST

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 74° F/23° C

ELEUTHERA

NASSAU

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 72° F/22° C

Today

SUN AND MOON Sunrise Sunset

6:21 a.m. Moonrise 5:26 p.m. Moonset

1:14 a.m.

2:20 p.m.

New

First

Full

Last

Nov. 13

Nov. 20

Nov. 27

Dec. 5

CAT ISLAND

E

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 74° F/23° C

N

S

E

W

7-14 knots

S

6-12 knots Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2023

High: 82° F/28° C Low: 76° F/24° C

N W

TIDES FOR NASSAU

ANDROS

SAN SALVADOR

GREAT EXUMA

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 73° F/23° C

High: 82° F/28° C Low: 76° F/24° C

N

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 76° F/24° C

E

W S

LONG ISLAND

TRACKING MAP

High: 84° F/29° C Low: 77° F/25° C

6-12 knots

MAYAGUANA High: 85° F/29° C Low: 77° F/25° C

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

CROOKED ISLAND / ACKLINS RAGGED ISLAND High: 83° F/28° C Low: 80° F/27° C

H

High: 84° F/29° C Low: 79° F/26° C

GREAT INAGUA High: 87° F/31° C Low: 79° F/26° C

N

E

W

E

W

N

S

S

7-14 knots

7-14 knots

MARINE FORECAST ABACO ANDROS CAT ISLAND CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA FREEPORT GREAT EXUMA GREAT INAGUA LONG ISLAND MAYAGUANA NASSAU RAGGED ISLAND SAN SALVADOR

Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday:

WINDS NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots ENE at 7-14 Knots ENE at 6-12 Knots ENE at 8-16 Knots ENE at 7-14 Knots NE at 10-20 Knots NE at 6-12 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 6-12 Knots ENE at 8-16 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots ENE at 8-16 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 8-16 Knots ENE at 6-12 Knots NE at 8-16 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots NE at 7-14 Knots ENE at 8-16 Knots NE at 6-12 Knots NE at 8-16 Knots

WAVES 3-6 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-2 Feet 0-1 Feet 3-5 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 3-5 Feet 3-5 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-3 Feet 0-1 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-3 Feet 3-5 Feet 3-5 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-2 Feet

VISIBILITY 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles

WATER TEMPS. 79° F 79° F 81° F 80° F 81° F 81° F 82° F 82° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 81° F 81° F 83° F 83° F 82° F 82° F 82° F 82° F 80° F 80° F 82° F 82° F 81° F 81° F

SECTION B

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2023

Miss Bahamas Universe

queen ready for world stage

Three Bahamian designers work on national costume to celebrate classic culture

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

AS they prepare to send off their reigning queen, the Miss Bahamas Universe Organisation is encouraging Bahamians to throw their full support behind Melissa Ingraham when she takes the stage in El Salvador for the 72nd Miss Universe competition.

Anticipation has been building globally for the coronation of the new queen on November 18 at the National Gymnasium in San Salvador.

With close to 90 countries vying for the coveted title each year, the broadcast network reaches 160 countries, attracting an estimated 500 million viewers during the live-streaming event.

And Melissa, a 26-year-old environmental scientist, is ready to show the world what she has to offer and why she belongs on the global stage.

Melissa’s platform centers on “Mitigating Climate Change”,

emphasising her experience in coastal preservation and coral reef restoration, alongside numerous other initiatives she plans to present on the Miss Universe stage.

The beauty queen’s extensive preparation has included a comprehensive four-month programme encompassing modelling, makeup application classes, dining etiquette training, work and fitness, interview sessions, community engagement, and participation.

“While there is immense anticipation for the Bahamas to secure the international title, Miss Universe Bahamas 2023 values the invaluable opportunity to connect with her pageant sisters from around the world. She has already

established significant connections within this global sisterhood, Miss Bahamas Universe,” said MBUO President Anthony Smith said.

The organisation is especially excited for the unveiling of Melissa’s national costume, which was a collaborative effort among several creative minds.

“We express our heartfelt appreciation to both international and local creatives, including Donovan Delton Barrett, Jeremy Eastmond, Carlos Velez Lynden, and Lynden Symonette from Elyse Media for their outstanding photography and video services,” said Mr Smith.

He said the “unique and distinctive” national costume is inspired by a 19th-century Bahamian

market doll and was conceived under his direction.

The project involved a collaborative effort between three Bahamian designers who sought to provide a contemporary interpretation of classic Bahamian culture.

“Tammy Arlington was instrumental in sketching the concept art and collaborated with Patrice Lockhart-Flowers in constructing the costume using burlap material. Judy Deleveaux, a highly respected designer known for her expertise in incorporating shells, straw, and indigenous Bahamian craft and culture, took the lead role in conceptualising and designing the overall aesthetic and development of the costume.

Her meticulous work breathed

life into the canvas, incorporating popular accessories such as the iconic Bahamian doll’s hat and vibrant colours that span from top to bottom,” he said.

Designer David Rolle also played a crucial role in the wardrobe selection in partnership with MBUO. Lynden Symonette of Elyse Media produced the video highlighting Melissa’s platform journey for international submission, as well as additional videos promoting specific cultural and historical sites.

“We hold profound gratitude for the unwavering dedication and exceptional efforts put forth by these talented designers who worked diligently to achieve success during a particularly busy period for all involved,” said Mr Smith.

“We gratefully acknowledge the contributions of Vandia Sands, Lakeisa Saunders, Narissa King, Loretta-Robinson-Thomas, and Elsye Sevi. A special note of thanks is reserved for Allison Knowles for her hair services and William Moultrie for makeup services. We also express our gratitude to corporate Bahamas, whose invaluable support will be duly recognised in an upcoming media publication.”

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A statement with socks

By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

IN TOO many instances, fashionable footwear involves sacrificing comfort for style.

But a new Fall trend is changing all that.

No more chafing when you throw on your favourite heels!

What used to be a fashion no-no is now a big style yes: visible socks worn with your heels, sandals and even loafers.

And not only are they visible, they are actual statement pieces.

Runway models, celebrities and the fashionable girls- next-door are all sporting the socks with heels, sandals and loafers’ trend.

It’s giving gothic school girl or Wednesday Addams meets prep school, meets nonchalant street fashion taste, all in one.

While it’s not a look that many would think to wear deliberately, but somehow it just works.

So just how do you pull off this style?

By keeping it simple and not overthinking your choices.

Pick your statement sock The socks will be the star of the whole outfit, so you want a cute pair, whether you are going monochromatic or wearing a bold print. Thinner socks will probably fit better inside your heels and will allow your feet to breathe throughout the day.

And there are some practical benefits; we all have those certain shoes we love, but they rub us the wrong way. Adding a pair of thin socks ensures a comfier fit. Or, maybe we had to skip our regular pedi; this trend allows us to still wear that sandal look in a rush.

It’s also a great way to try a colour or pattern that’s a bit outside our comfort zones, because it’s only a small amount of colour and it’s not as intimidating. So go loud, go bold or sexy (think fishnets) without freaking out.

Pick your outfit Skirts are a great choice to accompany heels. Think a maxi skirt with pumps and socks, or a pair of short shorts and a sweater with knee-length socks.

If you want to incorporate the trend into your work wardrobe, a skirt suit and a pair

of classic Mary Janes and socks are a perfect option.

And of course, you can always adapt the look for a night on the town by going for socks with a bit of sparkle.

Tribune Woman reader Jada said she has wanted to try the sheer black ankle socks with pumps looks for a while.

“I have not had the opportunity yet, but since Fall is all about layering pieces, I really am going to try to wear it this season,” she said.

Tanya added that she has seen the trend on Pinterest and Instagram and has become intrigued.

“I think it’s a cute look, but you have to know how to pull it off. It has to be the right combo of sock and colour and outfit, because when it goes wrong you look ridiculous,” she said.