11082016 news

TUESDAY i’m lovin’ it!

HIGH 82ÂşF LOW 71ÂşF

The Tribune L ATEST NE WS ON TRIBUNE242.COM

PARTIAL SUNSHINE

The People’s Paper

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016 PRICE – $1 (Family Islands $1.50)

ds Classifier h 12, 2012 Monday, Marc

N G A I B A R

D E R F I N

-%

$" ) Ĺš( Š0ÂœÂ‘Čą Â?Â&#x;Š—ŒŽ

Čą

help wanted

˜•Â? Ž› žŠ—Â?Â’Â?¢ ȹǛŗȹ ž¢ Â’Â?‘ȹ ŠœœŠž Ĺ˜ ”

Čą Š— ›ȹÂ?Â˜Čą Œ˜Â?’Š Â? ÂŽÂĄÂ?Čą Â˜Â˜ČąÇ­Čą ŠœÂ?Čą ˜ŒŠÂ?ÂŽÂ?ǹȹ ž•ěȹ Â?

ŚŖř

Ç›ČąĹœĹ?ĹœČŹ

tuition school

TACKLING HARASSMENT - SEE WOMAN

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Trade

S A M A B A H

Cars Fo Real r Sale Help Estate W Rental anted and m Ads much uch, more. ..

cars for sale

CHALK ART FOR A CAUSE

e TheTribun

real estate

Volume: 112 No.231

Biggest And Best!

CARS! CARS!

CLASSIFIEDS TRADER

Call today 328-0

AT STARTING

for rent

PM blasts FNM over China deals L! ADS SEL PHOTO 351 002 / 502-2

$25

KEY DEFENDS ANDROS PLAN

By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net

EDISON Key, Executive Chairman of the Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC), yesterday spoke out in support of the controversial $2.1bn agriculture and fisheries proposal for Andros that would involve Chinese investors, but cautioned that such a move, if pursued, must be “led and guided by Bahamians�.

SEE PAGE FIVE

Christie reveals talks by previous A SON LOST TO MURDER, administration A HOME RUINED BY HURRICANE MATTHEW

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

TEASING documents that detail the previous administration’s efforts to partner with the Chinese government for the development of agriculture and fisheries, Prime Minister Perry Christie yesterday criticised the Free National Movement and its leader Dr Hubert Minnis for “emotionally exploiting� Bahamian’s anxiety over Chinese investment.

In Parliament yesterday, Mr Christie revealed that the previous FNM administration held talks with the People’s Republic of China and private Chinese companies through the Bahamas State Investment Administration Bureau for projects and co-operatives, which included Crown land

acquisition.

However, he stopped short of tabling the documents, and instead invited Dr Minnis to review the files so that he could be informed without “having to make it into some ridicule of a nation�. “Before I put into the public domain, I would wish the government to give careful consideration to it because we have a different obligation to the FNM. “They can oppose or say anything however reckless it is, even though there is documentation of a MOU (memorandum of understanding) of agriculture cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and the Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s SEE PAGE SIX

DORSETT DENIES LICENCE GIVEN TO HARVEST FOREST IN ANDROS

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net  AMID heightened public concern over the Christie administration’s dealings with Chinese investors, Environment Minister Kenred Dorsett was adamant yesterday that neither his ministry nor the government has issued a licence to any company in this country for forestry harvesting in Andros.

Mr Dorsett admitted that a proposal of this kind, submitted in 2015, was ap-

proved in principle by the government’s Forestry Unit.

However, he maintained that to date all of the conditions imposed by the Forestry Unit were not satisfied, therefore no licence was issued.

Speaking in the House of Assembly yesterday, the minister said the only deal of this kind that exists in the Bahamas was struck in 2011 on a five-year basis under the previous Ingraham administration to a Canadian citizen.

SEE PAGE TEN

NATASHA Minnis of Dean’s Street, whose son was shot dead two days after her home was devastated by Hurricane Matthew.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net  TWO days after losing everything she owned in Hurricane Matthew, Natasha Minnis suffered another devastating blow when her 16-year-old son was shot in the head and killed.

His body was found in an abandoned building near her home.

In an tearful interview with reporters in front of the frame where her house once stood, Ms Minnis said October was the “worst month of her life� and just when she thought things could not get any worse, she claimed

the funeral home is now threatening to return her son’s body to the morgue because she does not have the $5,000 needed to give him a proper burial.

Her son Torio Adderley was found lying in a pool of his own blood in an abandoned building on Friday, October 14.

According to police, officers were called to the building on the corner of Bain and Meadow Streets shortly after 7am.

He had what appeared to be “two gunshot wounds to the back of the head� and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police have no motive for the mur-

der and no suspects in custody.

Ms Minnis said the only thing that is keeping her standing is her faith in God. On Monday, the Royal Bahamas Police Force’s basketball team, The Crime Stoppers, donated supplies to repair Ms Minnis’ roof. While she said she is thankful for the assistance, it is not enough. She said she needs money to replace all the furniture, appliances and clothing she and her other three boys lost during the storm as well as find the money to pay to bury her eldest son.

SEE PAGE THREE

MPS ARGUE OVER AID FOR GRAND BAHAMA

By KHRISNA VIRGIL Deputy Chief Reporter kvirgil@tribunemedia.net  FREE National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest yesterday said Grand Bahamians continued to be exposed to the elements, as he accused the government of taking too long to bring relief to those who suffered severe loss as a result of Hurricane Matthew.

He said despite $1.4m donated by the private sec-

tor for the relief and recovery in the aftermath of the monster storm, there are Bahamians who still cannot get the help they need.

Mr Turnquest said: “I think all of us, particularly Grand Bahamians, were shocked by the minster’s admission last week that the government has collected $1.4m in donations for hurricane relief, but haven’t spent one dime of the money that was collected. “In his words $200,000 donated by Hutchinson

Whampoa have been paid directly to contractors and the balance of $1.2m was sitting in the bank waiting for him and his team to get help. People are struggling today. The minister for Grand Bahama just said today that when the distribution of building supplies is undertaken that it will be an orderly process. But, Mr Speaker, the hurricane happened almost four weeks ago and Bahamians have lived in rain (and) cold weather.�

However, Minister of La-

bour and National Insurance Shane Gibson - who has been appointed to oversee recovery efforts - insisted that the government had to ensure proper protocols were followed before money from the recovery fund is paid out.

He said the money, which remains in the bank, is expected to supplement the funds the government has already earmarked for the repair efforts.

SEE PAGE FIVE

SPICY STRIPS

• 2 SPICY STRIPS • INDIVIDUAL FRIES

• BISCUIT • 16oz. PEPSIŽ

ÂŽ

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

PAGE 2, Tuesday, November 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

A DANCER during the party to celebrate the arrival of Santa Claus for the opening of Toyland.

SANTA Claus during his arrival to the Kelly’s House and Home Christmas Toyland opening.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff

A YOUNGSTER meets Snowbear, left, and, right, celebrations outside Kelly’s.

YOUNGSTERS enjoying Toyland at Kelly’s House and Home.

SANTA CLAUS HAS COME TO TOYLAND CHRISTMAS was in the air on Saturday as Kelly’s House & Home opened their Toyland and Fantasy Forest, with Santa Claus and Snowbear arriving in vintage automobiles and wooing the large crowd.

Not far away were some of Santa’s friends waiting to join the party - Mrs Claus, Minnie and Mickey Mouse, Peppa Pig, George and Doc McStuffins.

Hundreds of residents lined the Mall at Marathon’s streets getting ready to watch the Aquinas College Marching band, the sounds of drums and trumpets echoing through the crowd as the dancers evoked the true Bahamian Christmas spirit.

Kelly’s gave out free balloons, candy, cake, cotton candy and popcorn while children also received free face paintings and the chance to jump around in the bouncy castle.

A line began to form near the Fantasy Forest around 11.30am and parents and children gathered to have their photographs taken with Santa and Snowbear and to view the fully animated forest.

This year, the children had a chance to also take pictures with all their favourite cartoon characters as they paraded throughout the store.

Denise Darville, Toy Department Area Manager at Kelly’s, said the opening of

Toyland on Saturday was booming for trade. Customers were shopping early for bargains in the Kelly’s toy sale, with top items such as Little Tikes Table and Chair Set, Ever After High Dolls, Tailwhip Drift Scooters, Radio controlled cars, Baby Alive and even Indoor Play Tents.

Santa and Snowbear will be available for photographs every Saturday until December 3 between noon and 5pm at Kelly’s.

Donations will go to The Nazareth Center Children’s Home and Kelly’s said it will match all donations up to a total of $500.

The Fantasy Forest is open every day during regular store hours.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 8, 2016, PAGE 3

A SON LOST TO MURDER, A HOME RUINED BY HURRICANE MATTHEW from page one

“I am thankful,” she said.

“I lost everything. There is nothing left. I have been able to put canvass over one of the bedrooms in the back so I am sleeping there with my three other sons, who are 13-year-old twins and 15 years old. It has been devastating. I can’t sleep because through the night you can hear people in the yard.

“And then my 16-yearold was murdered. It hurts so bad, Lord Jesus. It has been a really tough month for me. The funeral home called me this morning (Monday). They need a down payment or they will return the body to

the morgue. I don’t have the money to pay. The funeral is $5,836 and I don’t have anything. They need something so they can hold the body. I am employed but it’s not enough.

From the roof fly off I went to try and get a loan from the bank and then I went again when he was murdered, but they can’t help me. I didn’t have insurance to bury him. Only Jesus has me standing right now.”

Member of Parliament for Bain and Grants Town Dr Bernard Nottage said he remembered speaking with Adderley the day before he was murdered and described the teen as “mannerly.”

“I remember that I got

a call that there had been a tragedy not far from my headquarters,” Dr Nottage, who was present at the relief donation, said.

“I met him the day before and had a conversation with him. It turns out he was young student who was in the Sure programme and was thought to be exemplary in his behaviour. He was a young man they called on to talk about the crime problem and violence to other young men. She is unlucky that he is gone. She lost her son who had tremendous promise.”

If anyone would like to assist the grieving mother, Ms Minnis she can be contacted at 467-1098.

By SANCHESKA DORSETT Tribune Staff Reporter sdorsett@tribunemedia.net

TWO women who lost their roofs during the passage of Hurricane Matthew last month were yesterday presented with $6,000 worth of supplies to “begin the process of rebuilding their lives,” according to Bain and Grants Town MP Dr Bernard Nottage.

The women, who both live in Dr Nottage’s constituency, burst into tears when they saw the truck full of plywood and shingles arrive at their respective homes.

Melvise Seymour, 74, had to be rescued from her home on Water Street off Tucker Road, when her roof collapsed and water started to pour into the structure.

Ms Seymour, who has been staying with her nephew since the storm, said she is eager to get back into her own place.

“Thank you all very much, God bless you,” she said. “The water and the roof destroyed everything. The water was coming through the roof and under the door. The roof was damaged, the furniture damaged, the sheet rock damaged, the appliances damaged, everything damaged.”

Dr Nottage said he has known Ms Seymour for many years and she has never let him down and so he cannot let her down now.

“We came through 10 days ago and she waved me down and told me what hap-

pened. They had to rescue her out of the house during the hurricane. Her neighbour came and got her in the middle of the night and when she came back in the house she didn’t recognise it. But between Supt Rolle and I we will help her get her roof back on,” Dr Nottage said.

Nastasha Minnis, who lives on Dean Street, said after her aluminium roof fell off, everything in her home was destroyed by water. She said she has been sleeping in one small room in the home, with her three sons, that she managed to put a little bit of covering over.

“I am so thankful for them. I lost everything.

There is nothing left. Nothing. I have been able to put canvass over one of the bedrooms in the back so I am sleeping there with my three other sons, who are 13-year-old twins and 15. It has been devastating. I can’t sleep because through the night you can hear people in the yard,” she said.

The items were purchased by the Royal Bahamas Police Force basketball team, the Crime Stoppers, who according to Assistant Superintendent Anthony Rolle, decided to forgo their usual celebration party and instead use the money to “help persons in need.”

ASP Rolle is the officer in charge of Bain and Grants Town Urban Renewal and head coach of the basketball team.

“A few days before the

THE ROYAL Bahamas Police Force Crimestoppers basketball team providing hurricane relief donations at two homes.

Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff storm, the team won the the labour.

“The day after the hurrichampionship in the Bahamas Government League. cane we came through Dean So it’s customary as the Street checking on the efchampions we visit with fects of the hurricane and the commissioner of police her house was perhaps the and we have a party,” ASP worst that was affected. She lost her roof, she had a tin Rolle said.

“In the aftermath of the roof and it all flew off and storm there was a lot of dev- when we were here she had astation so instead of having a little stove and was trying a party the team said they to cook something for her will get together an make kids,” Dr Nottage said.

“She is a nice person and a donation toward a family that is deserving. We start- she now has to figure out ed an assessment in this how to restore her home community and that led us and deal with losing her to the home of Ms Minnis son to murder two days afwho lost her roof as a result ter the hurricane. I want to of the storm. It came with- thank these young men for out a doubt that we would giving up their fun to help use the funds to provide her us to bring some help to her and we will find a way with assistance.”

ASP Rolle said the team to put this material on and entered into a partnership quickly. “ Dr Nottage said work with Dr Nottage; the team will provide the materials should begin on both homes and Dr Nottage provides before the end of the week.

DONATIONS HELP WOMEN TO BEGIN REBUILDING THEIR LIVES - NOTTAGE

THE INSIDE of Natasha Minnis’ home on Dean’s Street.

Are you tired of losing your shingle ROOF in hurricanes ?

Get a FREE quote for a hurricane resistant METAL STANDING SEAM ROOF by a PROVEN contractor with 20 years experience of metal roofing.

Call: 376-2876 / 377-0030 Tuesday, 8th November 2016

"Hey listen, we're deep into the fall season and heading fast for winter. Get your vehicle serviced before December activities begin." #283

“QUOTE OF THE DAY” Distributed By

BAY STREET GARAGE Dowdeswell Street

322-2434 • 322-2082

NATASHA Minnis showing the damage to her home from Hurricane Matthew.

MELVISE Seymour of Lakeshore Road, whose home was damaged by Hurricane Matthew, is pictured with Bain and Grants Town MP Dr Bernard Nottage speaking to the media.

PAGE 4, Tuesday, November 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

The Tribune Limited NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI “Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

LEON E. H. DUPUCH,

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH,

jrolle@tribunemedia.net

Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .

Publisher/Editor 1919-1972 Contributing Editor 1972-1991

EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON,

C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B. Publisher/Editor 1972-

Published daily Monday to Friday

Shirley & Deveaux Streets, Nassau, Bahamas N3207 TELEPHONES

News & General Information Advertising Manager Circulation Department Nassau fax Freeport, Grand Bahama Freeport fax

(242) 322-1986 (242) 502-2394 (242) 502-2386 (242) 328-2398 (242)-352-6608 (242) 352-9348

WEBSITE, TWITTER & FACEBOOK www.tribune242.com

@tribune242

tribune news network

Bahamians’ inalienable rights to Crown Land, conch, fish and crawfish BAHAMIANS are as protective of their waters as they are proud to be Bahamian.

So when news broke last week that the government had signed a letter authorising the Bahamian Ambassador to China, Paul “Andy”’ Gomez, to negotiate contracts with Chinese for 10,000 acres of Crown Land in Andros and certain rights to fish and farm, it was met first by an outpouring of stunned disbelief and - in what seemed like only moments later - an uprising of absolute fury.

That outrage continues. On Thursday evening, environmental activist Sam Duncombe posted a petition urging the Prime Minister not to give away fishing rights and to reserve Crown Land for farming. In 36 hours, it had garnered 2,773 signatures. It is now up to 5,000 signatures. And this from a population that is usually if not apathetic, certainly laid back and accepting of authority.

By the weekend, plans were underway for a Black Friday March scheduled for November 25. The march was being organised by people who normally work quietly behind the scenes to make life better for others, humanitarians like Golden Heart Award winner Shelagh Pritchard.

HeadKnowles Group was all over it. Social media was abuzz. Hours before the American presidential election, Hillary and Trump might have been trending in the United States but on social media in the Bahamas it was all about whose right is it anyway. Facebook blew up in numbers. Radio talk show hosts hardly mentioned another subject. Even the dawn of a new day with the College of the Bahamas becoming a long-awaited university was overshadowed by widespread fear that this was a country for sale and the purchase was being rung up at the cash register.

The response was instantaneous. Never had we seen a stronger, greater, more united fighting spirit. Mess with a Bahamian’s inalienable rights to Crown Land, conch, crawfish and fish and you unleash an energy that had lain dormant for decades.

What are the issues that underlie the current crisis and what are the real consequences?

The first issue is that the people of The Bahamas were not asked about something as precious as the waters that make the country what it is. They were not invited to participate. In fact, there did not appear to be any intention of even telling the people what was going to happen.

The government should be reminded that it was elected to represent the people of The Bahamas, not to act as a board of directors of a privately held company with responsibility only to the family members who sit at the table.

This is not private. The public has a right to know the public’s business. That

is the essence of what often sounds like a dry and boring subject line, freedom of information, but such legislation is the only legal vehicle to assure the public that it has a right to information.

The second issue is comprehensive environmental protection of land, wildlife, natural and marine resources. The children of tomorrow deserve to reap the benefits of the richness of the coral reefs, the beauty and majesty of what we hope will soon be named The Lucayan Sea. The track record of Chinese fishing leaves little in the way of sustainability and much to be desired. Side product catches trapping and killing unintended by-swimmers, scooping up schools of fish, ships with processing plants onboard - large-scale commercial fishing could literally wipe entire species out and deplete stocks in the blink of an eye. Surely we can learn from other islands that did not practice sustainability, islands that today look at The Bahamas with envy because we do have a closed season for Grouper and crawfish and are working on preservation of conch with a programme called “Conchservation”.

But there are three other important consequences that this furore has aroused. First, it has called attention to the importance of Crown Land. It has been reported that there are some 30,000 applications, most from Bahamians, for Crown Land. In one of the saddest stories we have heard, a man named Joe Thomas applied for Crown Land grant for 10 years. He had been a local councillor in Grand Bahama and a highly respected citizen. Neither a Free National Movement government which he served nor a Progressive Liberal Party government would approve the small grant he wanted.

He died last year and the dream of land ownership died with him.

The second consequence is that it has taken environmentalism out of the realm of elite people who have “nothing better to do than hug trees” to a level where everybody cares. It is about what they eat, how they live, the pride and the ownership. It is about their waters and reef and fish and their inalienable rights. Much of the message is what Save The Bays and other environmental groups have been saying all along - environmental protection legislation, freedom of information, an end to unregulated development. It mirrors what organisations like Friends of the Environment, the Bahamas National Trust, The Nature Conservancy, Earthcare, reEarth have been fighting for.

Third, if the government does not listen to the people now, it is very likely that it will cost the PLP the election.

And that could be the death knell of the party whose founding father, the late Sir Lynden Pindling, said would never sell Bahamian land to a foreign government.

Hollow assurances EDITOR, The Tribune.

FOREIGN Direct Investment is one of the many tools for economic growth, but Mr. Christie’s assurances that he will “protect Andros” agriculture and fisheries from Chinese Government exploitation rings hollow.

In fact, this proposal harkens back to former FNM Agriculture Minister Tennyson Wells’ secret proposal for long line fishing that was met with equal opprobrium.

Since these “investment” ideas are pieced together in secrecy the Government is

obviously not confident that they can include Bahamians in their proposed policies in their infancy for fear of recrimination. If they are not satisfied they can inform citizens of these ideas as they are being developed, it should resonate with them that something is amiss. Instead they plough on.

The arguments of overfishing by the Chinese are logical, and the fact that they propose to give so much Crown Land to the Chinese Government lacks credulity.

However, a friend pointed out another aspect that deserves consideration.

The Chinese water supply is reportedly diminishing as a result of drought and pollution, so they need potable water. Since Andros is the water supply for The Bahamas, why on earth would this government even consider this proposal on those grounds alone?

While Andros could not begin to supply all of China’s water, over-syphoning could prove deleterious for The Bahamas. The Bahamas ship of state is overwhelmed and sinking.

RICK LOWE www.weblogbahamas. com

Agriculture in The Bahamas Agricultural development and environmental health for The Bahamas part 1 EDITOR, The Tribune.

HISTORICALLY, the Bahamas has never been able to establish a permanently viable commercial agricultural sector.

This is first reflected in the failure of the plantation system in islands throughout the archipelago. Investment in both pineapple and citrus production was not successful in the long term even though the export market was exploited.

Later, ventures into sugar cane grow out and processing, the winter production of fruit and vegetables for foreign markets, as well as dairy and beef, and small ruminant grow out for local consumption have also failed.

The only farming that has proven “sustainable” are the slash and burn practised by the Lucayans, and later subsistence farming throughout the islands.

These methods were only viable for family and immediate settlement provision on a small scale. These were never “commercial” ventures.

Investment in the commercial operations of the last century were mainly through foreign capital and technological provision with no direct involvement from the Bahamian government except for the provision of ‘Crown land in Kind’. All ventures to date have collapsed for various reasons including the poor quality of our ‘soils’ expressed in sustainable yields, political mismanagement, foreign embargoes on Bahamian exports, competition from other regions, costs of production, and inability to adhere to foreign regulations.

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net However, in today’s search for sector development the Bahamian government is actively encouraging investment through foreign capital and technology. In this case, it is the Chinese government through its quasi corporate/ state controlled operations.

It would seem there is no reference to Bahamian expertise except as “fronts” for the Chinese enterprises.

(We already have one such front operation on the old sugar mill area in the south of Abaco).

To me, this appears to be yet another “easy way out” on our part, where no Planning for development, or concerns for the maintenance of our fragile natural resources are being taken into account. This again reflects on the abdication of responsibility of the Bahamian landlord (government) to protect our environment. Operators will be allowed to manage as they see fit, with no supervision from local authoritative institutions.

Unfortunately, the Chinese do not have a good track record for environmental protection in either their own country or in other countries where investments have been made. It is not that Chinese regulations are not in place, but corruption and bribery allow for no active oversight of country operations. I see no reason for them to behave in a different manner here in our country, unless The Bahamas enacts and enforces laws and regulations specifically designed to protect our sensitive and nonrenewable resources.

Along with this must come realistic monitoring

and regulation of any agricultural, and marine activity in the country, including home based ventures from Bahamian entrepreneurs.

As an aside, I would include the sensitive fisheries industry and marine environment as a part of any laws and regulations.

It is now well recognised that agricultural and industrial activities can have a deleterious effect on local ecological systems, biodiversity, and the biological and health welfare of local natural and human populations. A prime example of this is the Syntex environmental and health impacts on local populations in Grand Bahama, where children in schools were seriously affected by life threatening pollutants and dangerous contaminants released into the air and waters around the plant.

Eventually, the schools were moved to ‘safe’ areas.

However, no monitoring and regulations were put in place to prevent further poisoning taking place.

To my mind, it is essential that our law makers follow through with environmental and health regulations and monitoring systems to protect the population and the natural environment on which we live and feed, to survive in a healthy and protected atmosphere.

At the present time, our casual and crony-based approach to development only leads to a confused, disorderly, unhealthy and, poorly managed economy open to corruption, with no chance of a well structured and growth oriented programme, monitored and regulated in an efficient and controlled manner.

JOHN HEDDEN Abaco, November 6, 2016. email jondgaul@gmail.com

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 8, 2016, PAGE 5

ASUE Draw urges customers to collect winnings before closure

By NICO SCAVELLA Tribune Staff Reporter nscavella@tribunemedia.net ASUE Draw & Spin, the web shop company that has opted not to renew its provisional gaming license to operate in the country, is now disbursing “in full” all winnings and account balances accrued by its former customers in view of its exit from the sector.

The weeklong payout process will be supervised by the Gaming Board, according to Gaming Board Secretary Verdant Scott.

In a public notice yesterday, Mr Scott said the

Four Point Group Limited (FPGL), trading as Asue Draw & Spin, has as of Monday, started to pay out in full “all legitimate winnings and all legitimate account balances” to its former customers from three of its locations on three separate islands throughout the country.

The payout process will take place from 9am to 5pm daily until Saturday, November 12, Mr Scott’s statement said. FPGL said payouts will be made at its Regency South Plaza in New Providence; East Sunrise Highway in Freeport, Grand Bahama, and the El-

kis Building in Alice Town, Bimini.

To collect their funds, former customers will need to present a “valid form of photographic identification,” such as a passport, National Insurance card or “any other government issued identification documents” that bears the individual’s likeness, according to FPGL. Former customers will also have to present the “valid winning ticket,” when applicable, and will also be required to complete, sign and date an “acknowledgment form,” the group said.

If persons are unable to

He said: “I spoke to the issue of how the restoration will take place. Money raised by the private sector is going specifically towards the repair of homes.

“Before we start to repair the homes we need assessments done. After the assessments are done then we need to have the details of the scope and the pric-

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

ing of each house. So when you walk around to these over 10,000 houses that you now try to assess you come back and do the scope. After the scope and the details are prepared then you issue contracts and you start to spend the money. You cannot do all of those things in one day.”

He added: “That money on the account will supplement that will be a drop in the bucket. So it don’t make

EAST Grand Bahama MP Peter Turnquest in the House of Assembly yesterday. a difference when we start spending. We have money to spend.”

mian islands has been allowed to grow in a clustered manner, limiting the growth potential.

Mr Key said an operation geared towards strategically “thinning out” pine forest crops throughout the country could yield “improved” crops.

“If you go down to Andros there are thousands of acres where they are just growing tall, they are not sizing up,” said Mr Key. “The pines need thinning out, they are too thick.

“I served as chairman for BAIC for five years, Andros and Abaco are the two main islands with pine. Tremendous amount of pine forest. The pine in most of these areas are very thick, they grow very tall but they don’t size up because they are jammed up.”

He added: “(But) industries such as agriculture and fisheries are strictly for Bahamians, I don’t think the government would venture to award any foreign entity a license to come in here and fish (at a commercial level). “(It) is like taxis; (isn’t) that strictly for Bahamians, right? I don’t think the government would approve a fishery license to a foreign country or entity.”

He continued: “If it is a joint venture then I have no problems with it. But it has to be a joint venture, spearheaded by Bahamians, for Bahamians. But can’t just go out and say, with the Americans, the Canadians, Chinese; here is 10,000 acres go ahead and farm.

But if they get Bahamians involved as partners who can benefit from the sales and all that stuff, I don’t see too much wrong with it.”

Reports of the proposed fisheries partnership surfaced last week, when it was reported that the deal would entail the incorporation of 100 companies, with the agricultural products and seafood to be used for local consumption, and exported to China and the United States for sale.

Those reports also added that the proposal does include the leasing of 10,000 acres of Crown land in Andros.

However, Minister of Agriculture V Alfred Gray said the matter was a proposal he had approved and which was created by the Bahamas Ambassador to China Paul “Andy” Gomez.

It was not initiated by Chinese officials. He did admit that he gave Mr Gomez the go ahead to have discussions about the ideas with Chinese investors.

Deputy Prime Minister Philip Davis has said the issue is not before the government for consideration.

The Free National Movement, of which Mr Key is a member, has called for Mr Gray’s resignation over the issue.

Yesterday Mr Key said the public discussion on such matters had become too political.

“Opposition is opposition, they will always (oppose) while governments work to be governments,” Mr Key said.

KEY DEFENDS ANDROS PLAN from page one

Mr Key, who served as BAIC chairman from 20072012, said while he does not support the inclusion of any foreign group or country on a large-scale in such a venture, he would endorse plans to mobilise such a project if the government could clearly guarantee that Bahamians would be at the forefront of the development.

“Abaco or Andros could sustain a development like (this),” he said.

The Central and South Abaco MP also revealed that Henry Key, vice-president and director of Caribbean Global Timber Limited, is his son. The company was thrust into the spotlight on Monday, when The Nassau Guardian reported that the National Economic Council (NEC) gave permission for a forestry project with Chinese officials on 4,500 acres of Crown land in North Andros.

Speaking on the forestry project yesterday, Minister of Environment Ken Dorsett said no license had been issued to the company because they did not meet certain requirements. He said the principals of the company include Bahamian and American citizens who sought “additional assistance” from Chinese investors.

Mr Key said he did not know the details of the matter.

However, he also said the pine crop on several Baha-

Last week, Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe, who has ministerial responsibility for gaming, confirmed that Asue Draw & Spin had opted not to renew its provisional license, explaining that the company’s decision “indicates that they have withdrawn from the business.”

At the time, Mr Wilchcombe, said the decision not to renew its license was one that was made by the Asue Draw & Spin, and as such the company “will have to explain its reasons.” Nonetheless, he said the Gaming Board will allow for a “seven-day

period” before “beginning the process to fill the opening.”

Asue Draw had 21 locations, 31 agents and 86 employees.

Asue Draw & Spin’s decision not to renew its provisional license came as the lengthy regulatory process for determining which companies would be given official licenses has come to an end. This was the final step in the process of regularising the web shop industry.

The licenses will be officially issued by November 11 to seven of the eight companies previously given a provisional license.

SUSPECT ACCUSED OF HELPING WOMAN EVADE ARREST DENIED BID FOR BAIL

MPS ARGUE OVER AID FOR GRAND BAHAMA from page one

visit any of the locations by the cut-off date, and/ or if they reside in Marsh Harbour, Abaco; Harbour Island or Palmetto Point, Eleuthera, or Great Harbour Cay, Berry Islands, the notice said former customers can either hand deliver, mail, fax, or email the necessary information to the secretary of the Gaming Board no later than Monday, December 12, 2016.

For more information, persons can contact the Gaming Board at 397-9200 in New Providence; 3500025 in Freeport, and 3473020 in Bimini.

A MAN was remanded to prison yesterday after he was arraigned on allegations that he helped a woman evade arrest in her alleged role in a murder plot.

Randi Bain, 25, appeared before Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes facing a charge each of accessory after the fact and attempted arson.

It is alleged that he, on May 1, knowing that Caryn Moss was a party to conspiracy to commit murder, assisted her to avoid “due process of the law.”

It is further alleged that he, on the same date, intentionally and unlawfully attempted to set on fire a 2003 Nissan Primera, which is the property of Deborah Rolle.

Shortly after midnight on Sunday, May 1, police were on mobile patrol when they saw smoke coming from a vehicle in the parking lot of the old City Meat Market building located off Market

Street north, according to initial police reports.

Police examined the vehicle and found the body of an adult male with gunshot wounds. The victim, later identified as Oneil Marshall, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Chief Magistrate Forbes informed Bain that he was not required to enter a plea, and that the matter would likely proceed in the Supreme Court by way of a voluntary bill of indictment.

The judge then adjourned the case to December 16 when the matter is expected to be fast-tracked to the Supreme Court for trial.

Bain was then denied bail and remanded to the Department of Correctional Services (BDCS).

However, he was informed of his right to apply for a bond to the Supreme Court.

In May, Moss, 25, Ian Porter, 45, Jamaric Green, 30, and 37-year-old Ramon Sweeting were all brought before the court to face

a charge of conspiracy to commit murder under Section 89 (2) of the Penal Code, Chapter 84.

It was alleged that they, being concerned with others, between April 30 and May 1, conspired to murder Marshall.

While no suspect has been charged with Marshall’s murder, the quartet was arraigned within days of each other when they were informed that they would not be required to enter a plea to the allegation until the matter was transferred to the Supreme Court by way of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

A month later, the prosecution withdrew charges against Porter, Green and Sweeting. However, the case will still proceed.

PAGE 6, Tuesday, November 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

PM blasts FNM over China deals from page one Republic of China, talking about how they are going to deal with land, how they’re going to deal with matters to do with agriculture, fish farming.

“These are all documented evidence dating 2009, and if they are talking about projects, they had a wonderful undertaking of a project where they said the subject of the project is 10,000 acres of land.”

Mr Christie was responding to the Official Opposition’s rebuke of his administration following reports on a $2.1bn agriculture and fisheries proposal with Chinese investors for Andros, which he called a “nonissue”.

During his closing statements on a Bill for an Act to amend the GB Port Area Investment Incentives Act, Mr Christie leafed through a cache of documents but did not table any supporting evidence. Instead, he told Parliament that he is open to having a parliamentary inquiry to further explore the matter.

“The advocacy here is this,” Mr Christie said, “that we have an obligation to try and diffuse what is intended to be emotional exploitation of a population and it is wrongful to do it.

“The files will speak for themselves,” he said. “I don’t want to start another debate but this is a very interesting collection of pa-

V ALFRED GRAY, Minister of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Local Government, who has been under fire over a proposal for Andros.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/ Tribune Staff pers that was engaged in by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

“We have a lot of time to determine as a Parliament how we want to deal with this issue, the only concern I want to express is that we have an obligation not to cause people to wrongly draw conclusions about other countries. We must be very careful when we do that and especially the group (FNM) who brought the Chinese to The Bahamas.”

Mr Christie told parliamentarians that the documents, which he said he would make available to the FNM, detailed the involvement of the ministry and BAIC, and specified land acreage for fruit production, cow milk production, and pig cultivation. He noted that the “very comprehensive set of agreements” were

signed by the current permanent secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister.

Mr Christie said it was the FNM government that gave Hutcheson Whampoa veto rights for all port development on Grand Bahama, adding that this development has disadvantaged new initiatives like the proposed $200m port in East Grand Bahama for Carnival Cruise Lines. He said that the government has approved the project, and is awaiting agreement from CCL on its terms.

“It was subject to the fact that as a result of the 1994 letters signed by the FNM government of commitment, which constituted an agreement, the government of the Bahamas had to negotiate a waiver agreement with Hutcheson Whampoa in which they agreed to move to another level of sharing some of the proceeds with the government of the Bahamas,” he said.

“So when the member asks should we not take note that we are allowing a sovereign, another government to diminish the government of The Bahamas – I’ve been able to satisfy anyone that has been listening that you did that a long time ago with the agreements you’ve signed.”

Mr Christie added: “I’ve tried my best to get even lawyers in England to support our being able to change it. Not being able to change it, we then renegotiated with Hutcheson

Whampoa something that may not be as good as we ought to have had as a country, but something that allows us to save face.”

On Sunday, Dr Minnis called on Bahamians to mobilise against the Andros agri-fisheries proposal, stating that he believed would bring the country one step closer to “being colonised once again”.

The FNM leader also called for the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries V Alfred Gray to resign from his Cabinet post. Additionally, Dr Minnis put the government of China “on notice” that if elected, his party would review and reverse any “secret deal” that gives land or fishing rights to foreigners.

Yesterday, Mr Christie noted that Dr Minnis commented liberally on matters that involved countries with which the Bahamas had established diplomatic ties, and were represented by local embassies.

He said: “I want to be careful that we don’t allow our innocence and naiveté to cause us to make colossal errors of judgment that you can’t roll back.

“It has to be nothing but a childlike innocence to ask me to account for something his government had both hands, head, feet involved in. All that you said my government should be charged with, you have already done and established in this country, and you ask me to account for it?”

Mr Christie added: “All of this they did and then with a straight face trying to say that I brought the Chinese here. I applaud you for making decisions that are based on developmental issues of this country, but don’t fool yourself. We are not in The Bahamas going to allow any foreign country whether it’s the United States, whether this or that. We sit down as equals as best we can.

“We have to somehow elevate our national discussions in such a way where we are able to put things in proper context and not allow our people to deal hysterically with something that’s a non issue to start off.”

Point of order Standing on a point of order, Dr Minnis said that Mr Christie was comparing “apples and grapes.”

“Whatever the FNM has done in the past, with respect to any foreign investor,” Dr Minnis said, “was brought here and debated. When they spoke even about Baha Mar and the 7,000 workers that was debated and which they agreed to. When he spoke about his timber in Abaco that was brought here, the scientific evidence was presented to show why it was a selective process, that was debated and agreed to.

“So all we’re talking about is transparency versus non-transparency,” Dr Minnis added.

As he concluded his contribution, Mr Christie re-

called his relationship as an opposition leader with former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.

Mr Christie explained that he was “sufficiently secure” to discuss issues of national import with Mr Ingraham, and noted that Mr Ingraham would meet with him privately out of respect.

“Why don’t you just try it?” he asked Dr Minnis.

“When I invited you to come down there (to the Office of the Prime Minister), you brought people and said you can’t come by yourself - why don’t you try it?”

Mr Christie said: “Why don’t you as a leader of the opposition test the constitutional relationship you should have, prime minister to leader of the opposition, that’s how it works in this country.”

In response, Dr Minnis claimed that there was no comparison between Mr Christie and Mr Ingraham, adding that the PLP leader should “understand that clearly”.

To this Mr Christie said: “I know I’m not Hubert Ingraham, you ought to know I’m not Hubert Ingraham, just like I’m not Hubert Minnis, so you understand that clearly. I respect you for what you have become, I say it openly and publicly.

“If you disrespect me I have no difficulty with that, I will allow you to disrespect me. I don’t know why you had to say that, you lower yourself by doing that.”

UNEMPLOYED HOTEL WORKERS ON GB EXPERIENCE FINANCIAL HARDSHIP

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THOUSANDS of unemployed hotel workers in Grand Bahama are facing financial hardship while the two major resorts in Lucaya are under repair for extensive hurricane damage.

Despite a projected reopening on November 7,

the Grand Lucayan Resort, operated by the Hutchison Group, will remain closed for at least six months.

Some 1,200 workers and management staff are out of work, and many have turned to their union for help.

Michelle Dorsette, president of the Commonwealth Workers Union of Hotel and Allied Workers, said the group has been assisting

members, and are closely monitoring renovations.

She said people have received assistance with their rent, mortgages, grocery costs and other necessities.

“Hurricane Matthew has left trails of devastation on Grand Bahama, and our members at the Grand Lucayan and workers at Memories Resorts have been severely impacted,” she said.

The Memories Resort, operated by Sunwing, employs a staff of about 800.

The hotel has published on its website plans to reopen on December 16.

Ms Dorsette said workers are facing challenges and the union is supporting its members who are facing hardship. “Hurricane Matthew has proved a devastating blow for our members.

The resorts were severely damaged resulting in temporary unemployment for our workers. We have heard from a significant number of members and we continue to render some level of support and assistance on a case by case system.”

Despite limited resources, Mrs Dorsette said that the union must and will continue to help members.

“While the law dictates that union members continue to have fees deducted, we are looking beyond legalities; we are loaded with a spirit of love and looking to go above and beyond to help our members in some way,” she stated.

She has invited members to come into the union’s office and report their individual challenges.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 8, 2016, PAGE 7

Man challenges ruling he must face trial for decade-old murder

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

A MAN is set to appeal a judge’s decision that he should stand trial in the murder of his common-law wife notwithstanding that a 10-year delay in the case breached his constitutional right to a trial within a reasonable time.

Leo Roderick Johnson, 50, appeared before Senior Justice Stephen Isaacs for the start of his trial concerning the August 19, 2006 murder of Ericka Fowler.

When the matter was called, however, Johnson’s lawyer Crystal Rolle informed the judge that senior counsel Murrio Ducille in-

tended to appeal the court’s ruling on the constitutional motion to the Court of Appeal.

She had informed prosecutor Basil Cumberbatch of the move before court began, the judge was also told.

As a result, Senior Justice Isaacs adjourned the matter to January 19, 2017 for a status hearing.

On October 26, Johnson sought a formal declaration from the court that Article 20 (1) of the Constitution had been infringed and asked that the proceedings be stayed permanently.

The grounds for the application were that the present case is an abuse of the process of the court; that the delay was presumptively

prejudicial; that no reasonable explanation was given for the delay and that the applicant had been severely prejudiced in his defence because of the delay.

Rolle relied on the Court of Appeal decision of Cancino Lightbourne vs the Attorney General (2010), which outlines a number of factors for consideration of future applications for stay of a trial.

Basil Cumberbatch, in the Crown’s response, relied on the Court of Appeal’s decision of Stephen Ronald Stubbs 2013 where the appellate court ruled that there had been a breach of Stubbs’ rights after a 10-year delay of trial but said the trial should still proceed.

In his written ruling delivered on November 3 where he dismissed the application, Senior Justice Isaacs noted that the authority case of Lightbourne was not helpful to Johnson due to difference in circumstances of the two cases.

“Lightbourne was discharged by a magistrate presumably because there was not sufficient evidence to commit him to stand trial at the Supreme Court,” the judge said.

“He was then re-arrested and charged a second time on the same evidence. Lightbourne’s (armed robbery) case was stayed in all of the circumstances that obtained.

In the instance case, there is eye witness evidence of five

children born to the applicant and the deceased, and other family members, that saw the applicant drag the deceased from her home, stab her and cut her throat.

The deceased died in the street of her injuries.”

The judge then noted the reasons provided by the Crown for the delay, which were “the prevailing conditions of the limited number of trial courts in 2007, the demand for legal services and the supply of legal services in The Bahamas as contributing to the delay.”

“I do not accept that submission given the seven years of inactivity by the Crown. Nevertheless, the burden remains on the defendant to show that a fair

trial cannot be had,” the judge said.

“In all of the circumstances and the prevailing law, the delay in this matter has not been shown to have prejudiced the applicant.

“In the result, the applicant is entitled to a declaration that the delay in bringing him to trial within a reasonable time has breached his right guaranteed by Article 20(1) of the Constitution.

“I find, however, that on a balance of probabilities, a fair trial can be had despite the delay and breach of the applicant’s constitutional right to a trial within a reasonable time. The application for a stay is therefore dismissed,” Senior Justice Isaacs ruled.

ACCUSED MAN FRUSTRATED BY SERIES OF ADJOURNMENTS

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

DESMOND Newman, a husband and father of four, is fed up with the numerous adjournments concerning a matter in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court.

Newman is facing a charge of causing destruction of property. The matter has been adjourned four times due to the failure of the virtual complainant to appear.

Newman appeared in court yesterday, but the matter was again adjourned. The complainant was not present and Magistrate Charlton Smith set an adjournment to November 21.

Newman told Magistrate Smith that coming back and forth to court has been very stressful for his family and requested a final adjournment in the matter.

When Magistrate Smith asked if there was someone he intended to bring to court, Mr Newman said: “It

is evident that the person in question or the virtual complainant don’t want to come to court. This is very stressful on my family life.

“To come back here another day … is sad for me,” he said. I feel it is sad because l look to my leaders to protect us as young men and they are not coming to court because this has to do with an MP who is tied in as the government.

“I don’t want to go into details because there are people who do not know what is going on, but I would like this to be my final adjournment so that I can start rebuilding my life, and I ask the officers to please leave me alone. There are some officers that come pulling gun on me just for how I look and they don’t know me,” said Newman, who has long rasta locks.

When Magistrate Smith informed Newman that he was adjourning the matter to November 21 at 10am, Newman replied that he would not be able to make that date.

When asked why, he explained that he was leaving the island because he had received job offers elsewhere.

Magistrate Smith told Newman that if he leaves he is to advise the court of this, but Newman insisted that he was not coming back to court.

“What you saying to me is that you are on bail and you are going to defy your bail conditions. You telling me you are not coming back, do I need to revoke your bail?” he asked .

Newman told Magistrate Smith that his wife and baby were downstairs waiting for him. “I have my wife and baby down here and I have not fed them for this morning,” he told the magistrate.

“I was told the last time that this was the final adjournment and now (the matter is being adjourned again),” Newman said.

Magistrate Smith denied ever discussing a final adjournment.

“You said it was going to be final, the last time I

PHOTOGRAPHER FERRIER DIES ON 75TH BIRTHDAY ANTOINE Ferrier, the noted photographer, died on Sunday - his 75th birthday - after a short illness at the Princess Margaret Hospital.

He was described yesterday by Bahamas Press Club President Anthony Newbold as a professional and a gentleman who brought honour to the profession of journalism and mass communications.

Mr Ferrier captured the very essence of the Bahamian way of life, news and official events and portraits over the decades. Born in Gonaives, Haiti, in 1941, he pursued and completed his formal education in Port-auPrince. In April, 1965, Ferrier relocated to the Bahamas, where he established a lifelong career in photography.

He opened his studio “Photography By Antoine” in 1965 on Wulff Road, Nassau, and embraced the arts, generally, having a

ANTOINE FERRIER great passion and love for portrait photography.

Mr Ferrier is survived by his wife, Leona Ferrier (nee Sylven), daughter Robyn Ferrier-Rahming and four grandchildren.

MAN JAILED FOR KILLING COP MAY APPEAL

By LAMECH JOHNSON Tribune Staff Reporter ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

A MAN sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a policeman may contest his punishment in the Court of Appeal when he returns to court in January 2017.

Alexander Williams appeared in the appellate court for an extension of time application concerning the appeal he would like to have heard relating to the murder of Constable Truman Cooper in 1992.

As he missed the 21-day deadline for filing an appeal after sentencing, he must first apply for permission to be heard on appeal, which could be granted if he is able to convince the court that the challenge is likely to be successful. The appellant is representing himself in the proceedings, which were adjourned to January 19, 2017.

Williams and Sean Poitier were convicted and sentenced to death on August 16, 1993 for the murder of Constable Cooper. He appealed this to the appellate court, though his application was dismissed in 1995.

He also petitioned for leave to appeal to the London-based Privy Council but that application was rejected in 1996.

However, the Privy Council handed down a ruling in October of that year that executing a prisoner who has spent more than three and half years on death row

would violate their constitutional rights to freedom from cruel and inhumane punishment.

The two convicts were to be hanged in January 1998, but that did not take place.

They were subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment nearly a decade later in 2007.

was here when y’all told me that my file was lost the last time I was here and that was supposed to be the final ad-

journment,” Newman said.

Magistrate Smith told Newman that the matter was adjourned to Novem-

ber 21 and warned that if he does not appear a warrant would be issued for his arrest.

PAGE 8, Tuesday, November 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

Trump and the Republicans have become unelectable

By NICOLE BURROWS

I

DECIDED to take a morning drive along the scenic route through the rolling hills, looking for some inspiration in the yellows, oranges, reds, and browns of the Fall season.

It’s my favourite time of year to be here. It’s extremely peaceful and picturesque and it leads me to reflect on what my senses instinctively extract from the environment around me. I am enveloped in serenity.

My thinking becomes more profound, more organised.

I discover new meaning in recalled experiences … the ones that flood my mind in this Fall rapture. I can see and smell the beauty of nature through the early morning mist and crisp morning air; I am at one with my physiology, and, somehow, it purifies the contaminated, problemridden reality of human life.

This kind of impromptu drive is the perfect thing to do to escape modern life.

Take a ride on an old farm road. Imagine what life used to be like on this same land hundreds of years ago, and the concerns of the real indigenous people who walked these parts of the forests that are now roadways for automobiles. How could anyone navigate such dense and uneven vegetation? It affords a whole new respect for the land of the original inhabitants, and underscores the disrespect they have received as the original Americans, with others deciding it was not their land.

I suppose that story is better analysed at another time. But, truly, we are all travellers in this world, all foreign to any place called home, regardless of where we are born. We all came from somewhere else. And no other land in the world is home to people from somewhere else as America is.

But on this serene drive, in this changing season not the Fall season, but the election season - I see yard signs for America’s preferred presidential and vice presidential candidates. In most of these neighbourhoods, most residents don’t display actual signage on their properties, so it’s not sufficient to conclude anything from the fact that you see more of one set of

names than any other … except for the fact that you know exactly where you are and what history has to say about what happens here and what has happened here before.

The signs themselves won’t indicate who will win the election, but when there is a sign to be found on someone’s property around these hills and valleys, it tends to bear the names ‘Trump’ and ‘Pence’.

It always intrigued me that a city identified as one of predominantly black citizens could sit and thrive in the midst of a state identified as a predominantly white state. Some take that one step further to say that whites make up the most of the population of the state while blacks are a minority, because whites were mostly Republicans in the state’s history. And that’s not to say that black people can’t be Republicans or that only white people are, or that black Republicans or white Democrats don’t exist, but it’s a reminder of a past most would sooner forget, where racial tensions were high in a place where political affiliation was defined by economic privilege, and economic privilege was mostly defined by race. Republicans were wealthy, and the wealthy were mostly white.

Wealthy whites were Republicans who wanted slavery to persist and blacks to remain enslaved because it brought them more money. Being a wealthy white Republican played a big role in the endurance of slavery. Cotton picked by slaves was big business for wealthy southerners, but can that alone, from then to now, explain why this state is still regarded as a red state?

In 200 years, nothing much has changed?

P

erhaps there’s another factor at play.

People of the old South tend to be Christian zealots, bible thumpers, who tie Christian religious principles to the core of the Republican party. But how could Christianity, a religion for all, tie itself to the philosophy of money-grabbing capitalism at all costs?

Because this world is upside down, the reality of Repub-

THE UPS and downs of politics: a supporter for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton holds up an effigy of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Arizona recently.

Photo: Ross D Franklin/AP lican principles measured money and more guns. I’ve against Republican prac- never heard a Republican or Republican supporter tices are incongruent.

In stark contrast to Re- argue in favour of anything publicans, in these modern other than more money days, people who vote for (less taxes) or more guns, Democrats tend to be large except fewer immigrants. minority groups, whether How can anyone take them their minority affiliations seriously? By extension, are based on ethnicity/race, how can anyone take Dongender, sexual orientation, ald Trump seriously? The party and religion, etc. the person The down- ‘In my estimation, the are contratrodden, the abused, lady will lead America dictions of the philosthe forgot- after today’s votes ophies they ten, the neare all in. I strongly are meant glected … to engenthe repeat- believe, especially der. edly disad- now, that the So who vantaged are these groups of disadvantaged people people people are of America make on my the people up larger numbers peaceful who tend drive with to vote in than the advantaged ‘Trumpfavour of in America, and the Pence’ Democratic disadvantaged will signs leaders. stuck in They are vote for a Democratic the soil of in essence president.’ their front people who, lawns? given the basic principles of Christi- Can we safely assume that anity, should be welcomed they already do, or would with open arms by Republi- soon, espouse the division can Christians … by a party that Trump is pushing as that claims to be interested the want-to-be head of the in having a better coun- Republican party and the try, yet it preaches divisive leader of the free world? Do the people who would vote rhetoric.

From all evidence, the for Trump really identify only better country Repub- with the very same ideollicans want is one with more ogy as Trump and the wider party of Republicans, or are they just voting Republican because they’re anti-Democrat? You know, born a Republican, die a Republican, that sort of thing?

How much of the Amer-

PORCELAIN 24X24 INCH TILE

EARLY CHRISTMAS SAVINGS UNBELIEVABLE PRICES $1.99 PER SQ FT. ONLY WHILST SUPPLIES LAST TEL: 698-1140 or 698-1141

ican population will vote based on Republican party affiliation and entrenchment rather than universal issues which should be resolved for the benefit of most? How many will vote Republican today because they agree specifically with Trump’s thinking process and prejudices? How many will vote Republican today only because they swear their allegiance to the Republican party, regardless of who is at the helm?

Why do veterans, who are essentially victims of war, want to vote for Trump and the Republican party, when Republicans are the ones who believe in guns and back wars with millions of dollars of investments in companies that supply wars with armaments?

Much like the Bahamas, the United States is faced in this general election season with choosing between two leaders in the two largest parties who are less than favoured for very different reasons: one who is experienced, maybe too experienced that it becomes untrusted, and one who is imbecilic with no experience, combined characteristics that are also not trusted. I suppose it comes down to one question. Of only those two choices, is it preferable to be led by someone who knows how to work the system, or someone who has no clue? … because any other consideration is too subjective a point upon which to base

this decision.

In my estimation, the lady will lead America after today’s votes are all in. And I say this because I strongly believe, especially now, that the disadvantaged people of America make up larger numbers than the advantaged in America, and the disadvantaged will vote for a Democratic president.

Were the Republicans to win this election, it would come as a great surprise to me, and it would only point - with a very large finger - to the America that seeks division and not solidarity … and there’s nothing united about that kind of America.

But I doubt the Republicans will win this next presidency, because, for all the money they can inject into an election, there are many wealthy Democrats with considerable influence … enough to sway dejected people to vote into office another Democratic president, so that their needs can be served, if not wellserved.

The sad irony about this, though, is that the number of disadvantaged continue to grow from year to year.

Minorities of all kinds proliferate. And because of this I don’t imagine that America will see another Republican president for a long time to come … not until Republicans start to resemble Democrats as they once did ... in the origins of their party.

Send email to nburrows@ tribunemedia.net

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, November 8, 2016, PAGE 9

Regime change will open way for new US ambassador in Nassau Tribune Chief Reporter Ava Turnquest hears from US Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Mari Carmen Aponte on her first mission to the Bahamas and the last bilateral meeting between the two countries under the Obama administration.

“ELECTIONS in the US are usually tough and very competitive,” says Mari Carmen Aponte, US Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs.

Ms Aponte was acknowledging the high saturation of US election coverage in the country as she spoke to The Tribune in the American corner of the Harry C Moore Library at the soonto-be University of the Bahamas.

“This election is very special,” she continued. “There is a lot at stake and I think the candidates are going at it with passion and knowing that there is a lot at stake, and each defending their own position. For me, I view it as a great exercise in democracy and a great opportunity for all Americans to participate. If there ever was an opportunity to do it, this is it.”

She added: “I’m glad to know and have already seen and heard from most Bahamians that I speak to how passionately they feel about one candidate or another.

They feel as though it is their candidate.”

Ms Aponte had just concluded a spate of meetings with various NGOs and civil society bodies across a wide array of interest groups, such as HIV/AIDS, human rights, juvenile justice reform, voter registration, and LGBT rights. The final item on her two-day mission to The Bahamas was to assess hurricane recovery efforts and meet with senior government officials on a range of bilateral and regional issues.

Formerly the ambassador to El Salvador, Ms Aponte was appointed to the post in May. Notwithstanding the gruelling and intensely divisive campaign season, she believes that the change of administration will loosen the “logjam” that has seen the ambassador post in Nassau remain empty since 2011.

“I also see that in the relationship with The Bahamas it is such a strong relationship that it does not matter who wins,” she said.

“I think The Bahamas is too important, it will not be ignored. I think one of the first things we will see in a new administration is the nomination of an ambassador. I would like to make it clear to your readers that the reason why there has not been an ambassador is not because of The Bahamas at all.

“That relationship is and continues to be strong,” she said. “It really has to do

with our political system and the way that ambassadors have to be approved by a very, very political body that sometimes operates based on politics and not on qualifications. I think those kind of logjams are gonna be broken with a transition and that has happened not only in The Bahamas but in other multilateral bodies and in other countries.

It is not because of the Bahamas, it’s really because of us.”

ACTING Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Mari Carmen Aponte (third left) met Prime Minister Perry Her country visit on OcChristie, Minister of National Security Dr Bernard Nottage, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Fred Mitchell while in the tober 28 follows a mission Bahamas last month. Also pictured are Western Hemisphere Affairs Chief of Staff Stephanie Bowers, US Embassy Charge d’Affaires to Haiti, where the death Lisa Johnson, Minister Responsible for Hurricane Recovery and Restoration Shane Gibson, and Director General, Bahamas Foreign toll from Hurricane MatService Sharon Haylock.

Photo: Peter Ramsay/BIS thew has topped 1,000 lives Ms Aponte was appoint- siasm and energy,” she said, and severely undercut the ernment has done very well a week earlier, that warned specifically ed Acting Assistant Secre- “when I think of [Free Nacountry’s efforts at staging in areas of trafficking in Bahamians, its own electoral process. persons, it is really a model young men, to comply tary in the Department of tional Movement candidate Ms Aponte said interim for the region and should be and be extremely cautious State’s Bureau of Western for Bain and Grants Town] president Jocelerme Privert very proud of the way the when interacting with po- Hemisphere Affairs on Travis Robinson and what has committed to staging government handles that lice in the US. It was due May 5. During her tenure is happening in the upcomthose critical presidential issue. Support for those on- to heightened tensions over as US Ambassador to El ing election in The Bahagoing programmes was an- recent fatal police shoot- Salvador from 2012 until mas, that you will also do elections on November 20.

“In southwestern Haiti other aspect of my visit and ings in America of black February, 2016, she focused well. on expanding crime prevenMr Robinson, the I do take with men. out of every 100 “We always are work- tion, the economy, democ- 21-year-old who was recenthouses, one had ‘The Bahamian me a very good ing with all the countries racy, sustainable develop- ly ratified by the FNM, is impression.” a roof,” she said.

Last month, in making sure that we can ment and human rights. She an alumnus of the US State “The conditions government the London- either support or some- was the first Puerto Rican Department’s International are devastat- has done very Visitor Leadership ProPrivy how help in their security woman to hold the title. ing but notwith- well in areas of based Meetings with civil soci- gramme.

Council upheld problems,” Ms Aponte standing that “The young people who the Court of Ap- said. “We do give out these ety in The Bahamas echoed [Acting president trafficking in peal’s ruling to travel warnings; they have her own personal journey are so active in registering Privert] feels persons, it is quash the con- nothing to do with the bi- as an activist, and policy- voters will do a great job, very committed really a model and give us all, even the viction in The lateral relationship. It has maker. and is pushing “With each one of them, ones who are not so much Bahamas’ first to do with the duty that the ahead. So far for the region tried human Department of State has to through my career work- wiser but maybe more exhe has demon- and should be trafficking case. its citizens to warn them ing very actively in the perienced a lesson in civic strated and the very proud of It said that Par- that they need to take care Hispanic community in participation, which I also election comliament should of themselves and their the states,” she said, “I had think is very important.” mission actions the way the From her first visit to The amend the law if surroundings. It is some- been where they all are, in demonstrate that government it wants the At- thing that we work on in different stages. I saw the Bahamas, Ms Aponte said they have a goal handles that torney General the bilateral relationship development of my career her greatest impression was of holding those issue.’ to have the pow- and we have excellent co- almost right in front of my the indomitable nature of elections. eyes because some of them the Bahamian spirit. er to fast-track operation.

“They have “I think getting a han- were having issues with think that speaks to human trafficksupport of the Mari Carmen ing cases to the dle on the security of the fundraising, others the is- the“Ispirit of Bahamians and United Nations, and he has said Aponte Supreme Court country is a process. It’s a sue of legitimacy, of cred- their resilience,” she said, process that takes a while, ibility, the issue of recogni- “and it doesn’t matter that for trial. even if we have Ms Aponte and it’s a process that needs tion. All issues that are very there was a hurricane last to put up special tents to have people come in and also considered the is- to be worked at constantly relevant to how an NGO year, that (hurricane) Matvote, we will do whatever sue of travel warnings that and modified constantly and civil society functions. thew visited this year. You, we need to do to hold that arose in July when the US because I think that peo- I saw their struggles and the Bahamians, are still embassy issued its second ple and issues of security my heart went out to them here present, very much election.”

During her visit, Ms advisory for the year, un- change. And as they change and I kept telling them that focused on engaging and Aponte engaged in bilat- derscoring that armed rob- we need to be aware that they should not give up,” moving forward and I have been very positively imeral talks with Prime Min- beries and violent crime re- we are changing as well and she said.

“It’s in that constancy pressed by what I have seen ister Perry Christie, Foreign mained a primary criminal that we need to be on top of Minister Fred Mitchell, threat. It noted that officials them, and that we do this, and that discipline of be- since I arrived.”

She added: “The spirit of National Security minister received reports of a sig- the most important thing is ing present and staying the Dr Bernard Nottage and nificant increase in armed that we do it together and course that they can make a the Bahamians is pure joy Hurricane Matthew ‘czar’ robberies throughout New we are doing that and we difference. I saw incredible for me to see.”

Providence over the past six will continue to work in this spirit and was very excited Shane Gibson. area with the Bahamian with all the participants at Comments and responses Of those talks, she said: months. to aturnquest@ The advisory conflicted government,” she added, the meeting.”

“Of course there are other “With that kind of enthutribunemedia.net things that occur in the or- with the government’s nar- “it’s too important.” dinary course of bilateral rative that overall crime in relationships between the The Bahamas had dropped two countries, improving by 29 per cent from Janurelationships that we al- ary 1 to June 14 compared ready have, or making sure to the same period in 2015. they get better or are am- And Dr Nottage told replified. So we have been porters that the embassy engaged in those types of was “wrong”, and that the discussions with the gov- assertions were “not true”.

It was speculated that the ernment while I have been US advisory was a political here.

“Security is an area response to a travel warnwhere we have been very ing issued by the Ministry active. The Bahamian gov- of Foreign Affairs less than

Funeral Service For

CHERYL LOUISE NEWMAN, 61

of Clarence Town, Long Island, will be held on Friday, 11th November, 2016, 12:00 noon at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Clarence Town, Long Island. Rev. Kendrick J. Forbes, assisted by Deacon Patrick Darville will officiate. Interment will follow in Long Island, Public Cemetery.

Left with cherished memories are Her eight children: Kermit, Fr. Kendrick, Dexter (Alissa), Karim, Dion, Brian, Vaughn, and Ashley; Her siblings: Ronald, Bridget (Charles), Roger (Sarah), Paul, Stephen, and Marsha; Her six grandchildren: Kobe, Summer, Kendricka, Kody, Naima, and Lamari; Her aunts and uncles: Ernest (Paulette) and Joshua; Left with fond memories are a host of other relatives and friends: Ena Major and Family, Colleen Adderley & Family, Olivia Turnquest & Family, Elma Garraway & Family, Harriet Pratt & Family, The Newman Family, Cheryl Turnquest & Family, The Turnquest Family, Hilda Gaitor & Family, The Lightbourne & Garland Families, Brenda Hart & Family, Sister Mary Benedict Pratt & Family, Reginald Minnis & Family, Rose Adderley & Family, Carlos Milander & Family, Kermit Major & Family, Nancy Arangil & Family, Ruth Minnis & Family, Dora Taylor & Family, Beatrice Taylor & Family, Annie Turnquest & Family, Lamont Lightbourne & Family, & Carl Emmanuel & Family, Deacon Patrick Darville & Family, The Bowe, Minnis, Strachan families of Clarence Town, Gary Laing, Terrece Bootle, The Cartwright Family of Roses, Long Island, Mary McIntosh & Family, Margo Taylor & Family, Diana Darville & Family, Bernie Cartwright & Family, The communities of Dunmore, Roses, Berry’s, Mortimer’s, Mildred Taylor & Family, Lauren Knowles & Family, The Treco Family, Yvonne, Victoria Major and family, Una Kemp and Ellis Major and family, Darcy Louis and family. Randeria Nottage and family, Tamara Turnquest and the entire Long Island Community.

Friends may pay their last respects at Bethel Brothers Morticians #34 Nassau Street, on Wednesday from 10:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. and at the church in Clarence Town, Long Island on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until service time on Friday.

PAGE 10, Tuesday, November 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

DORSETT DENIES LICENCE GIVEN TO HARVEST FOREST IN ANDROS from page one

Any assertions that state otherwise, Mr Dorsett said, is an attempt to “demonise” a potential investment by insinuating that it is a secret deal with the Chinese by the government.

He was responding to a report in The Nassau Guardian that a company with majority Chinese directors was given National Economic Council (NEC) approval for a forestry project on 4,500 acres of Crown land in North Andros. This report said the NEC agreed to issue a company called Caribbean Global Timber Ltd a five-year renewable timber harvesting licence for the selective thinning and resin extraction on Crown land forest in north Andros.

However, the minister refuted some of the article’s claims. The principals of the company, he insisted, include Bahamian citizens and American citizens who have sought additional assistance from a Chinese industrial and commercial investment company. “(The claims are) untrue and can be nothing but an attempt by the writer to invoke xenophobia within the minds and hearts of the Bahamian people. This tactic should be strongly condemned as it is raising undue alarm in this nation and internationally. May I remind Bahamians that ‘Chinese’ is a nationality and not a race,” Mr Dorsett said.

“The only existing licences for forestry is the fiveyear licence issued by the Free National Movement in 2011 to a Canadian citizen in relation to two tracts of

land in our Abaco forest estate, comprising 5,194 acres in Wilson City and 1,552 acres in Norman’s Castle.

“I have spoken publicly on the issue of resin tapping and selective harvesting on many occasions as the minister responsible for forestry. In 2015, my ministry published a document called, ‘Fulfilling the Charter’ where on page four it states: ‘There is potential for resin tapping to evolve on the island of Andros.’

Presently the government is considering a proposal made by a company that would like to harvest resin from trees on the island of Andros for export.’”

He continued: “On the August 28, 2015 the Forestry Unit issued an ‘approval in principle’ to Caribbean Global Timber Ltd. The principals of the company include Bahamian citizens and American citizens who have sought additional assistance from a Chinese industrial and commercial investment company.

“To say that there is a deal with the Chinese is misleading. Notwithstanding the above, to date all of the conditions imposed by the Forestry Unit reflected in the aforesaid letter have not been satisfied. Therefore, no licence has been issued.

“It should be noted that the existing pilot project in Abaco and the proposed project in Andros will assist the Forestry Unit in managing the selected areas in accordance with provisions of the Forestry Act and in an environmentally sustainable way. Under any forestry licence, trees are selected by the Forestry Unit to be utilised for resin and/ or timber extraction. The

NOTICE Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) (a), (b) and (c) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, notice is hereby given that:(a) NERVOUS TICK INC. is in dissolution; (b) The date of commencement of the dissolution is the 31st day of October A.D., 2016 and (c) the Liquidator is C.B. Strategy Ltd., of Sassoon House, Shirley & Victoria Streets.

C.B. Strategy Ltd. LIQUIDATOR

NOTICE Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) (a), (b) and (c) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, notice is hereby given that:(a) LITE SLATE INC. is in dissolution; (b) The date of commencement of the dissolution is the 31st day of October A.D., 2016 and (c) the Liquidator is C.B. Strategy Ltd., of Sassoon House, Shirley & Victoria Streets.

C.B. Strategy Ltd. LIQUIDATOR

NOTICE Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) (a), (b) and (c) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, notice is hereby given that:(a) HAZEL HOLDINGS LTD. is in dissolution; (b) The date of commencement of the dissolution is the 28th day of October A.D., 2016 and (c) the Liquidator is C.B. Strategy Ltd., of Sassoon House, Shirley & Victoria Streets.

C.B. Strategy Ltd. LIQUIDATOR

KENRED DORSETT, Minister of the Environment and Housing.

Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff systematic removal of selections will enable trees with the greatest potential to grow in size and have space to do so.

“All forestry resources remain vested in the government of the Bahamas.

Land is neither granted nor leased. Licences are issued only for the removal of selected trees and for the sustainable use of the resource. Royalty fees are paid to the government for such activity. As we have done over the past few years and will continue to do so in the future, we encourage Bahamians to learn more about forestry and to get involved.”

Backlash However, Free National Movement Deputy Leader Peter Turnquest castigated the government for placing itself in a position where it has to “dance to the tune” of others.

“No government should find itself in such a position and this is what is so egre-

gious and concerning about the rumoured Chinese deal in Andros and all the significant stakes a foreign state owned operation has in our country,” Mr Turnquest said as he broke away from debating the Grand Bahama Investment Incentive Bill yesterday.

“Just this morning, Mr Speaker, there is another allegation that I think some 4,500 acres of land in Andros has been approved for a foreign owned entity to harvest timber.

“Most Bahamians just cannot believe that we are continuing on this trend particularly after so much outrage and concern has been expressed by the Bahamian public. It cannot go unnoticed on this government that the Bahamian people are particularly concerned about the dominant stake that a foreign country through entities that it influences has on our government.

“At some point we have to take the position that we

NOTICE

will not sell ourselves for that proverbial couple of dollars because it has long term implications for our children. We must not tie them up like that. We must not,” the East Grand Bahama MP added.

Mr Turnquest also pointed to recent controversy involving Agriculture and Marine Resources Minister V Alfred Gray and a $2.1b fisheries proposal for Andros with Chinese investors.

However, standing on a point of order, Mr Gray was on the defensive as he sought to clear his name and threatened to reveal a list of FNM investment proposals.

Mr Gray said: “The member for East Grand Bahama knows better than he is saying. He is pandering to a public over whom he may have some control. (But) he’s not going to use me as a scapegoat. He’s not going to do that.

“I want to correct what he said about this deal with which the minister is involved. I said I am not involved in no deal, no discussion (or) any thing like it.”

Responding to seated MPs who shouted that Bahamians did not believe his statements, Mr Gray continued: “That’s your business and I am saying Mr Speaker in defence of my name nobody is going to take that privilege from me.

“I have not been in discussion with one Chinese about anything regarding anything in the Bahamas, not one Chinese. I have already said what I did and if they read the letter they wouldn’t be as intellectually dishonest as they are.”

Caribbean Global Timber Ltd In a letter from the Ministry of the Environment and Housing to the attor-

ney representing Caribbean Global Timber Ltd, Permanent Secretary Christopher Russell wrote that the NEC agreed to the issuance of a five-year renewable Timber Harvesting Licence in accordance with the provisions of the Forestry Act 2010 and Forestry Regulations 2014.

However, the approval depended on several conditions. These included: hiring a minimum of 100 Bahamians within 90 days of beginning operations, engaging an environmental monitor to ensure compliance with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environment Management Plan (EMP) and work in conjunction with the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) and the director of forestry to ensure all scientific research in shared between both entities.

In addition the company was mandated to construct a pine forest production plant on a suitable site to be determined on the island of Andros within one year from the date of approval.

This facility was to include rooms to accommodate executive housing, staff housing and a cafeteria among other things.

Bahamian contractors were to be used for the construction of this facility, key non-Bahamian management personnel and owner representatives were to be considered for work permits, the letter outlined.

However, if the company could not produce satisfactory EIA and EMP documents, which were approved by the BEST Commission and the director of forestry, the license would not be issued.

This information came from documents Mr Dorsett tabled in the House yesterday.

NOTICE

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) (a), (b) and (c) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, notice is hereby given that:-

Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) (a), (b) and (c) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, notice is hereby given that:-

(a) STOMPING BOOTS LIMITED is in dissolution;

(a) UPHILL CLIMB LTD. is in dissolution;

(b) The date of commencement of the dissolution is the 31st day of October A.D., 2016 and (c) the Liquidator is C.B. Strategy Ltd., of Sassoon House, Shirley & Victoria Streets.

C.B. Strategy Ltd. LIQUIDATOR

(b) The date of commencement of the dissolution is the 31st day of October A.D., 2016 and (c) the Liquidator is C.B. Strategy Ltd., of Sassoon House, Shirley & Victoria Streets.

C.B. Strategy Ltd. LIQUIDATOR

THE TRIBUNE

CHIPPIE Chipman with some of his grandchildren.

FRIENDS wish Chippie Chipman a happy birthday.

CHIPPIE GOES BIG WITH BIRTHDAY BASH PARTY IT is never too late to start something new and the legendary entertainer John “Chippie” Chipman, 88, proved that as he recently hosted his first ever birthday bash on the historic plantation grounds opposite Arawak Cay. The site is a part of his family’s heritage, and he thought it would be the perfect location for a major birthday bash. Before this year, Mr Chipman would have birthday celebrations through the former Lifebouy Street, now John Chipman Street where he lives. But it became quite obvious that the amount of offspring he has produced, combined with the children of the community who usu-

ally invade his yard, and the many friends he has from all walks of life, would make it hard to sustain the event in that area.

The birthday bash featured multiple tents offering free food. Children played with balloons and toys to entertain themselves until the much anticipated birthday rush-out.

Mr Chipman wore his Junkanoo Hall of Fame Jacket, emblazoned with his medal, Member of the British Empire (MBE), from Queen Elizabeth. Minister of Youth, Sports & Culture Dr Daniel Johnson attended the bash and commented that it is important to honour the great works of the living legends amongst us.

Tuesday, November 8, 2016, PAGE 11

BIANCA Nygard stops by to say happy birthday to Chippie Chipman.

PAGE 12, Tuesday, November 8, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

DNA candidate Kendal Smith and members of the DNA party donated computers to the students of Sandilands primary school.

DNA DONATES COMPUTERS TO SCHOOL HIT

BY THIEVES

STUDENTS who had their computers stolen in the wake of Hurricane Matthew received a donation from the DNA yesterday to make up for the loss.

The party, including candidate for Fox Hill Kendal Smith, presented the new computers to Sandilands Primary School yesterday.

Photos: Tim Clarke/ Tribune Staff

KENDAL Smith takes a photograph with students of Sandilands Primary School.

COMPUTERS donated to Sandilands primary school from the DNA.