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Volume: 121 No.4, November 24, 2023

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‘PEOPLE WANTED MONEY FOR VOTE’ FNM coordinator says residents wanted cash just to turn up

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net AS polling wound down in the West Grand Bahama and Bimini constituency on Wednesday, David Wallace, the former Free National Movement MP for the area and coordinator of the party’s campaign, hoped a last-minute influx of FNM supporters would rescue the party’s chances, knowing a high turnout was critical to the party’s success.

GRANT ‘INVITED TO CID’ BUT NO COMPLAINT AFTER VIDEO

Instead, he claimed yesterday, people who said they would vote for the FNM began requesting money just to turn up.

“People were calling you and saying, ‘I’m not coming to vote until somebody come and touch me,’” he said. “I said ‘touch you?’

I went to see a young lady and she said to me straight and plain, their position was, if they want my vote, this is what I want.

SEE PAGE THREE

BISHOP Ricardo Grant at yesterday’s official recount of the by-election vote.

Photo: Vandyke Hepburn

TRUANT HOTLINE LAUNCHING TO REPORT ABSENT STUDENTS

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net THE Ministry of Education is launching a hotline for people to report students who are not attending school.

Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said although attendance rates have improved since

the pandemic, some students are not on the record because they are not registered.

She said the ministry is enhancing efforts to find absent students.

“The policy is simple,” she said yesterday. “Do you see a child out there that should be in school, and SEE PAGE FIVE

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net POLICE said Bishop Ricardo Grant, the Free National Movement member who lost the race to be the MP for West Grand Bahama and Bimini, declined to file a complaint yesterday against a Bimini resident who alleged that he distributed money on his behalf before Wednesday’s by-election.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Bernard Bonamy, Jr, said the man and two other people being questioned about the matter were released from

custody after officers spoke to Bishop Grant.

“Bishop Ricardo Grant was invited to CID,” ACP Bonamy said. “He was never in custody. He was never a suspect. We asked him if he wished to make a complaint because the fella was using his name. He wished not to.”

He said investigations into the matter are continuing.

A man dressed in FNM paraphernalia flashed a load of cash in a video released on Wednesday.

THE National Sports Authority is investigating a vandalism incident at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium that damaged nine of the facility’s ten windows and door frames early Thursday morning.

A member of the NSA

who spoke anonymously to share sensitive details said the damage would cost about $2,700 –– $300 per frame.

Up to press time, officials were awaiting a report from their security team.

NSA general manager Moses Johnson declined to comment.

The New Providence Basketball Association

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

hosted their regular season double-header at the gym on Wednesday night, followed by a junkanoo practice.

Officials believe the vandalism happened after these incidents.

The NSA oversees all facilities at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre,

MARINA operators yesterday disclosed they have heard “nothing” about the online charter fee portal that was supposed to be created via a controversial $3.355m contract award.

Peter Maury, a past Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) president, told Tribune Business that industry operators had asked how their clients could pay the 4 percent Port Department charter fee prior to the winter boating season but received no answers from either that agency or the portal’s selected developer, DigieSoft Technologies.

SEE PAGE FOUR

FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS

SEE PAGE THREE

VANDALS SMASH WINDOWS AT KENDAL ISAACS

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

$3M CONTRACT - BUT WHERE’S THE PORTAL?

Nassau & Bahama Islands’ Leading Newspaper

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 24, 2023, PAGE 3

‘People wanted money for vote’ from page one “I was working one polling division, Jones Town, and I got a call, one fella say he got 25 fellas together and they all got their voter’s card and they ain’ voting till somebody touch me. It was something like, it was breeding on its own or festering. One person said it, then the next person said it, and I said to myself, no man, you got to vote on principle.”

Vote-buying claims have coloured Bahamian elections for years, but are difficult to prove.

In assessing what went wrong

for the FNM, Mr Wallace claimed the Progressive Liberal Party had the funding advantage and unsparingly mobilised government resources to attract voters. He believes it should be unlawful for the government to issue contracts, give people jobs or sign major agreements close to an election.

He criticised Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander for “riding with the leader of the PLP on the day of the election”, suggesting such actions could intimidate voters.

“Why wasn’t the commissioner of police being escorted by his

own policeman in his own police car?” he asked. “Why was he riding with the prime minister?

“I’ve never seen it. Former Prime Minister Ingraham came to Grand Bahama for the rally on Sunday. He said ‘Mr Wallace, I want to ride in the constituency to see where everybody is.’ He said he needed a car. I gave him my car. He said, ‘my policeman could follow me, but I’m not riding in no police car to campaign.’”

Mr Ingraham criticised the PLP’s use of uniformed officers during a rally on Sunday.

“For uniformed police officers to be accompanying the head

of the government campaigning at night with police lights blazing, that ain’t right,” he said. “It is undemocratic. They know better than that, the police know better than that, so stop it!”

Mr Wallace said he knew before polls closed that the FNM would lose because it was a low turnout election, with 62 per cent of registered voters voting.

“Traditionally, the PLP will vote,” he said. “PLPs, even if they are angry, will vote. All that mob you hear after the confirmation of Kingsley Smith and those people were supporting Shane saying I ain supporting the PLP and Brave

got to go, man, one trip to Nassau and couple promises and they come out shouting Brave is the best thing.”

“The FNM on the other hand, when they are angry, they just don’t come out. That has been the trend of politics in The Bahamas.”

While some will assess the election results for what it means about the popularity of the PLP and FNM two and a half years away from the next general election, Mr Wallace noted that the constituency is a PLP stronghold that has gone to the FNM only twice since 1972, both during wave elections.

GRANT ‘INVITED TO CID’ BUT NO COMPLAINT AFTER VIDEO

from page one “I got the bag, I just got word, I have $50k, got to spend today,” he said.

“Bishop say it got to go today, so y’all come check me. I got the bag. Bring your voter’s card.”

Police said they had not found the money, which they suspect is real.

In a statement last night, FNM chairman Dr Duane Sands said Bishop Grant

BISHOP Ricardo Grant and FNM supporters at yesterday’s official recount.

Photo: Vandyke Hepburn

COMMISSIONER SAYS ISSUES SLOWED DOWN VOTING PROCESS

By LETRE SWEETING Tribune Staff Reporter lsweeting@tribunemedia.net

SOME senior citizens took longer to vote than expected, while people lacking required documents also slowed down the voting process in West Grand Bahama and Bimini on Wednesday, according to acting Parliamentary Commissioner Arthur Taylor.

His comment was in response to a reporter who said some people complained that the voting process was slow.

“The seniors we accommodate, those handicapped persons and that kind of thing, we can’t rush them,” Mr Taylor said, adding that people lacking documents were allowed to vote under oath.

Mr Taylor confirmed that Bishop Ricardo Grant and Lincoln Bain, candidates for the FNM and COI, conceded defeat shortly after polling officers started recounting votes yesterday.

He said despite their concessions, the recount continued.

The Parliamentary Registration Department did not release official numbers yesterday. According to the unofficial results, the PLP’s Kingsley Smith got 2,150 votes, Bishop Grant got 1,276, Mr Bain got 307, DaQuan Swain got 28 and Terneille Burrows got four votes.

6,015 people were registered to vote in the constituency. The turnout was about 62 per cent.

Only Mr Smith and Bishop Grant made the one-sixth threshold needed to get back their $400 deposit for contesting the seat.

Bishop Grant said that polling officers had finished recounting two boxes of votes when he conceded the race.

“We were satisfied that everything was being done and done in decency and in order,” he said.

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confirmed to police that he neither knew the man nor was involved in activities shown in the video. He said police asked Bishop Grant to provide a statement.

“While Bishop Grant and the FNM trust the police to investigate and address the situation properly, attempts to falsely impugn or undermine Bishop Grant’s character through false or negligent reporting are regrettable,” Dr Sands said.

PAGE 4, Friday, November 24, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

Probe launched into mangrove destruction

By LETRE SWEETING Tribune Staff Reporter lsweeting@tribunemedia.net ACTING press secretary Keishla Adderley said an investigation is underway after more than 200,000 square feet of mangroves in the Adelaide Village area were destroyed.

She said the Davis administration will not tolerate threats to the environment.

Complaints were made

to officials this week after a large mangrove forest was decimated. The property proprietor, Fly Fishing Nassau, posted before and after photos on social media depicting the removal of the mangroves.

Officials of The Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Department of Environmental Protection and Planning have visited the site to assess the damage, and investigations into the

unauthorised removal are underway.

During a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday, Ms Adderley said authorities would update the public on the matter when more information is available.

The destroyed mangroves were a sanctuary for conch and served as the annual mating grounds for nurse sharks. Mangroves also aid in the fight against climate

change by absorbing deposits of carbon dioxide from the environment.

Earlier this week, The Bahamas Natural Resources Foundation, a non-governmental organisation advocating for environmental protection, reposted photos of the damage on social media.

The organisation appealed for more environmental awareness, pointing out the key benefits of mangroves.

“Mangroves, with their extraordinary biodiversity, serve as critical nurseries for marine species and act as a natural barrier against storm surges,” the organisation said. “Their loss not only endangers marine life, but also poses a threat to fisheries, local community food sources, and the economic impact on the fly fishing industry and tourism.

“This tragedy unfolds amid ongoing efforts to

restore 40,000 acres of mangroves in Abaco and Grand Bahama, ravaged by Hurricane Dorian.

“This incident emphasises the urgent need for heightened environmental awareness and protection.

The Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association urges swift action to rectify the damage and expects responsible parties to be held accountable for all restoration efforts.”

VANDALS SMASH WINDOWS AT KENDAL ISAACS

from page one including the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium, the National Tennis Centre, the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex, the Thomas A Robinson Stadium and the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.

PICTURED, one of the damaged windows at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium

SMALLER DELEGATION FOR COP MEETING IN DUBAI

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

Funeral Service for CAROL EDITH CREARY, 89 of Middle Lake Drive, Lake Cunningham will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday 25th November, 2023 at St. Mary’s The Virgin Anglican Church, Virginia Street. Officiating will be Rev’d. Colin Humes, assisted by other members of the clergy. Cremation will follow.

Left to cherish her memories are her, Children: Cheryll Reid Cartwright, Pauline (Henry) Lightbourne, Christine (Dion) Bethell and I. Brent (Joann) Creary, Vernon (Patricia) Creary; Daughter-In-Law: Rochell Creary; Grand Children: Villiere (Ellery) Deveaux, Darchell Henderson, Gregory and Ryan Reid, Brandon, Camryn and Toni Bethell, and Nia and Ian Creary; Great-Grand Children: T’eri Henderson, Jayden and Brelen Reid; Brothers and Sister: Kent Reid and Idris (Gwen) Reid and Camille (Gerald) Stuart; Nieces and Nephews: Julian Reid, Nicola (Willie) Simmons, Nadia, Melissa and Gerald Stuart and Akira Reid; Grand Nieces and Nephews: Kentira, Kent III and Rashad Reid, Rasheik Fowler and Hunter Simmons; Great-Grand Nieces and Nephews: Kayden, Kylie and Ranae Reid; Other Relatives and Friends Including: Mary Davis and Family, Marlene (Wayne) Creary-Brown and Family, Dawn Creary and Family, Vella Jaimeson and Family, Dennis Creary and Family, Paula Clemmons, The Creary Families (USA), The Descendants of Everette W. Evans, Wallace Relatives and Sawyer Relatives, The Coleman Family, Hugh, Fitz, Charmaine Morrison and Family (USA), Verna Elcock, The Descendants of Sarah Minnis, Eric and Bre Smith and Family, Kordelia Wiggins (NY), Janet and Frank Dean, Rev. Fr. Shazzasbazzar Turnquest, Ven. Archdeacon Theadore Hunt, Paula Williams, The Antonio Family, The Albury Family, Sidney Cartwright, Dr. Alia Campbell, Nurse Khris Wring, The Lightbourne Family, Urcil Fritz, Dora Bethell and Family, Bede Sands, Sean Blyden, Rev. Fr. Dwight Bowe, Rev. Canon Harry Ward, The St. Mary’s Church Family, Batelco Retirees; numerous other Friends and Family; Doctors and Caregivers: Dr. Yasmin Williams-Robinson, Dr. Bradia Cooper-Trustham, Nurse Yvonne Adderley, Nurse Gloria Pete, Mia Jean Borja, Camillia BaileyKnowles, Lynette Simmons-Burnside and Laverne Gordon.

May Her Soul Rest in Peace!

Friends may pay their last respects at Bethel Brothers Morticians & Crematorium, #44a Nassau Street on Friday, 24th November, 2023 from 12:00 noon. to 6:00 p.m. and at the church on Saturday, 25th November, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. until service time.

FEWER than 20 people will be a part of the delegation attending COP28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, next week, far fewer than the group of 70 that represented the country in Egypt during last year’s event.

The 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference will take place from November 30 to December 12.

The delegation includes Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell, Energy and Transportation Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis and the technical team members.

Environment and Natural Resources Minister Vaughn Miller was not announced as part of the delegation,

suggesting he would miss the event for the second year.

According to Rochelle Newbold, special advisor on climate change and environmental matters, youth will not travel due to security concerns.

“This is a direct cause of the fact that we can’t replace them if anything happens, we are unable to replace them and having a large delegation would make it difficult should there be a need for us to pivot and leave that region as quickly as possible and we are not willing to take that risk,” she said during yesterday’s weekly press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister.

Ms Newbold appealed to Bahamians to take climate change and its effects on the country seriously.

“We are trying our

endeavour best to make sure to bring back tangible, useful, and effective outputs from these meetings because we don’t have the luxury. We’re an island state,” she said.

“Climate change is the hurricane, climate change is the heat index, climate change is the health problems that come in relation to that.

“We don’t have the luxury to sit back and do nothing, to not be a part of the discussions, to not demand that people adhere to the agreements and outputs that have been agreed to and to ensure that they take the responsibility where it ought to be laid.”

She noted that the government’s focus for COP28 is to engage in negotiation processes and advance investment programmes.

Funeral Service For Althea Woodside, 70 of Man-O-War Circle, Yeoman Wood, Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas and formerly of Nicholl’s Town, Andros will be held on Sunday, November 26, 2023, 1:00pm at Tabernacle Baptist Church, Settler’s Way Freeport, Grand Bahama. Officiating will be Pastor Norris Bain assisted by Pastor Dave Adams. Interment will follow at Grand Bahama Memorial Park.

She is survived by her husband: Alpheus Woodside; parents: William Nixon and Emily Mae Marshall (deceased); mother-in-law: Adline Fowler (100 years old); children: Glen Woodside (Kenva Woodside), Ashell Bain (Norris Bain), Dorcas Vega (James Vega), Alpheus Woodside Jr. (Jamie Woodside) and Lacita Parker (Mark Parker); grandchildren: Glen, Garneth Woodside, Aaron Nortelus, Sheila, Garret and Gabrielle Woodside, Dr. Norshanti, Nathan, Nathaniel, and Noah Bain, Taleaha and Tyreke Vega, Alpheus-Zion, Emmanuel and Israel Woodside, Mark and Laniyah Parker, Lavinciano Butler; great grandchildren: Aarianna and Aarielle Nortelus; siblings: Leola Duncombe (deceased), Ebnezer Marshall (deceased), Drexel Evans, Gloria Spence, and William Nixon Jr.; sisters/brothersin-law: Isadora Scott (deceased), Marena, Rose, Neutral, Shirley, Rebecca (deceased), Alvara and Standly, Evadney, Barbara, Yvonne and Kenneth, Benjamin, Vantlock, Locks, Leslie, Kevin, and Barry (deceased); nieces and nephews: Shaniqua (deceased), Lakita, Emily, Alicia Marshall, Loretta (deceased), Orman, Austin, Edd, Noramae and Jerome, Porsha, Shantesha, Deon, Shivargo, Kody, Kenvaughn, Krista, Kenneth, Kevin Melinda, Robyn, Robynique, Phillipa, Phillip, Latisha, Marcia, John-Mark, Freeda, Kayshala, Dorramae, Angela, Anne, Treaor, Stevie, Angela, Whitney, Taniqua; and a host of other numerous nieces, nephews & cousins; adopted children: Karizon Munroe, Stephanie Woodside, Patricia Outten, Sophia Higgs, Sophie Dean, Elouise Bartlet, Lil Harold and Hareldo Miller, Toriano Williams, Kino Williams (deceased), Nikita Morley; adopted grandchildren: Harrington and Harrinique Miller, Bradleon McDonald, Joey, Justin, and Jaiden Dean, Quenthaya Moore, Jerricka and Jerrad Russel, Aaronique Hepburn and Mariah Matheiux; adopted niece: Shavonne Stubbs and Island Administrator Shanrose Thompson; adopted godchild: Nanesha Patton and a host of other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

Viewing will be held in the “Royal Suite” at Westside Memorial Mortuary, Hanna Hill, Eight Mile Rock, Grand Bahama, Bahamas on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at 12:00noon to 6:00pm.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 24, 2023, PAGE 5

THE SIGNING ceremony yesterday at BTVI in an agreement to provide uniforms for staff at Breezes. After the signing, a tour was held of the rooms where the uniforms will be made.

Photos: BTVI

BTVI signs deal to make uniforms for Breezes staff THE Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute signed a deal yesterday to provide staff uniforms to Breezes.

Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training Glenys Hanna-Martin visited BTVI for the signing, which will see the institute provide custom-designed, locally produced uniforms for the resort.

BTVI acting president Linda Davis said: “It’s a win win situation as far as we can see. From the bellman to those in housekeeping and the front desk employees to servers in the restaurant, Breezes staff will proudly wear uniforms made in The Bahamas.

“We will create 100 uniforms that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional for the resort, whether shirts, skirts, pants, vests, scrubs, bush jackets. No doubt this product will foster a sense of pride between Breezes and the

BTVI team members.”

Breezes managing director Muna Issa said: “Breezes is very excited about this collaboration, it’s been a long time in the works. Something like this shouldn’t even be news, it should be second nature, it should have been done a long time ago.”

Mrs Hanna-Martin called on other companies to follow the lead of Breezes in partnering with the likes of BTVI to invest in Bahamian talent and development.

She said Breezes had “made a decision that their investment in this country goes deeper than what you see is what you get but down to the roots of our nation - and this investment in BTVI is our roots”.

She added: “I hope it’s just a beginning. I hope corporate Bahamas is listening and watching about these kinds of partnerships and how they imbue a strengthening of us as a people.”

TRUANT HOTLINE LAUNCHING TO REPORT ABSENT STUDENTS from page one you believe, and you know, and you suspect that that is a child that’s not attending school for some period of time?

“That’s an at-risk child, and so that’s the policy.

Pick up the phone and call the hotline of the Ministry of Education, and we will respond. So we’re going to the next level in ensuring the attendance of the students in the classroom.”

Yesterday, the minister also gave an update on a 12-year-old boy found living alone in a car earlier this year.

She said the boy remains in the state’s custody and is attending school.

Mrs Hanna-Martin said she remains optimistic about this school term.

“We are purposeful. We are strategic. We know what our endgame is, what our goals and objectives are, and the main thing is that our children have leverage,” she said.

“And so I’m very optimistic. I believe this term will be the beginning of a very, I hope a, big improvement in what we have previously seen in education in this country. We want to unleash young people onto the world.”

LUNCH VENDORS OWED MONEY WILL BE PAID

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net SOME lunch vendors in public schools have not been paid on time –– an issue the Ministry of Education said it is addressing.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education said most vendors have been paid but “there are a couple that are still being dealt with”.

Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin said her ministry is working to ensure vendors are paid more swiftly.

“We’re seeking to devise a methodology and I’ve spoken to the permanent secretary at length with this to ensure more efficient payment of these vendors and whoever is owed monies that the ministry is able to do it efficiently,” she said while attending an unrelated event yesterday.

PAGE 6, Friday, November 24, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

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Noboa leads a country on edge QUITO, Ecuador (AP) — Daniel Noboa, an inexperienced politician and heir to a fortune built on the banana trade, was sworn in Thursday as Ecuador’s president, a role that citizens are demanding he uses to restore the public safety that drug cartels and other criminal organizations robbed them of at the decade’s start.

Noboa’s term will run only through May 2025, which is what remains of former President Guillermo Lasso’s tenure. Lasso cut his term short when he dissolved the National Assembly in May as lawmakers pursued impeachment proceedings against him.

The head of the country’s newly elected legislature, Henry Kronfle, placed the presidential sash on Noboa during a ceremony in Quito, the capital.

In a brief speech, Noboa said his government’s main objective is to “reduce violence and make progress a habit”. He acknowledged that it is “a hard and difficult task” to tackle in the short term he will serve.

“I am not anti anything, I am pro everything,” he said. “Let us join forces... let us leave the old political schemes and concentrate on solving the big problems that afflict Ecuador.”

Under Lasso’s watch, violent deaths in Ecuador soared, reaching a record 4,600 in 2022, which was double the number from the year before. Killings, kidnappings, robberies and other criminal activities became part of Ecuadorians’ everyday life.

The assassination of presidential candidate and anti-corruption crusader Fernando Villavicencio as he left a campaign rally in August underscored the country’s fragile security situation.

Noboa’s only experience in government was as a member of National Assembly that Lasso dissolved. He is inheriting a weakened economy and serious fiscal challenges as well as the leadership of a country mired by violent crime, “The economy and security are indivisible issues; it is an important front on which President Noboa must work,” Andrés Briones, an analyst and professor at Casa Grande University in Guayaquil, Ecuador, said. Noboa’s government will have to “undertake tax reforms to encourage growth and the revitalization of the economy.”

But any actions he wishes to take to address Ecuador’s crucial issues will first require him to negotiate with the National Assembly, where his party lacks enough seats to govern on its own.

The spike in violence is tied to the trafficking of cocaine produced in neighboring Colombia and Peru. Mexican, Colombian and Balkan cartels have set down roots in Ecuador and operate with assistance from local criminal gangs.

Noboa has made a range of proposals to improve security, from using barges to house inmates to getting police more

gear. While those ideas helped him get elected on October 15, he now faces the challenge of leading a population frightened to the point of opting to stay home as much as possible.

“We have been kidnapped by organised crime,” Alejandro Zabala, a professor at the University of Las Américas, said.

But Zabala thinks the heavy-handed policies imposed by Lasso were “an absolute failure” and suggested the government must clean up the ranks of law enforcement, invest in equipment for police and join regional and international efforts against organised crime as Ecuador “cannot win this war alone”.

Like Lasso, a conservative former banker, Noboa’s wealth puts him at the top of Ecuador’s elite. His father, Álvaro Noboa, is among Ecuador’s richest people thanks to a conglomerate that started in the growing and shipping of bananas and now includes more than 128 companies in dozens of countries.

The elder Noboa unsuccessfully ran for president five times.

The younger Noboa opened an event organising company when he was 18 and then joined his father’s Noboa Corp., where he held management positions in the shipping, logistics and commercial areas. His political career began in 2021, when he got a seat in the National Assembly and chaired its Economic Development Commission.

Verónica Abad, a politician and businesswoman, was sworn in as vice president during Thursday’s ceremony.

The only foreign president to attend the ceremony was Colombia’s Gustavo Petro. The vice presidents of Brazil and Honduras were also present.

Ecuador’s fiscal mess is in part the result of declining revenues from tax collection and oil exports, on which the country largely depends.

Data from the Ministry of Finance show state coffers received $991m from oil between January and July. That’s less than half of the $2.3 billion the state received during the same period last year. Meanwhile, tax collections this year fell by $137m.

The country’s fiscal deficit is expected to be around $5 billion by the end of the year, or more than 5% of its gross domestic product.

Former Minister of Economy and Finance Fausto Ortíz said Lasso had good fiscal management of the economy, adhering to instructions of the International Monetary Fund, with cuts in public spending and state investment and a sustained reduction in the fiscal deficit.

But Ortíz argued that “the fiscal part is not everything in the management of a country” and the strategy has brought unintended consequences: No economic growth and no employment growth.

“The result is not favorable,” he said.

EDUCATION Minister Glenys Hanna Martin pictured during a tour of BTVI yesterday after a deal was agreed for BTVI to produce staff uniforms for Breezes.

Bus systems need more routes EDITOR, The Tribune.

DESPITE its many ills, the Bus System has been very good to the residents of New Providence. This has been especially true over the past five or six decades. The Bus System transports a significant percentage of the workforce that continues to build and develop our country on a daily basis.

There may be many areas throughout this country where people have been praying that a bus route can pass through their community. I know of at least three such areas that are in dire need of such a service route.

Firstly, the Cowpen and Marshall Road areas are among the greatest areas of neglect by the Bus System and this is so unfortunate!

Certainly, the authorities know very well that we won’t all have cars. Only heaven knows what’s really behind this painful and egregious oversight.

Cowpen Road is almost as long as Carmichael and runs parallel to it, but the distance between the roads is “no cake walk” and it can be a long and arduous journey for strong and ablebodied individuals. How much more will this be the case for the young, the elderly, and the infirm? Can you imagine walking and going the full distance from the Budget Food Store on Cowpen and Faith Ave to catch a bus out on Carmichael Road, under normal conditions?

Now let’s throw in the hot sun, the strong dusty winds, and the unpredictable rain for good measure. Now let’s go the opposite way from Budget to Marshall Road and all the way to Blue Hill Road. Or better yet, let’s head east along Cowpen Road until we get to the

LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net bus stop near “Prince Will.”

And, yes, people (not just animals) are walking these routes every day and wondering who’s in charge of busing routes and maybe even cursing them in their hearts every now and again.

This is to say nothing of the hundreds, if not thousands of school children in these areas that have been neglected for years.

Remember, cars can breakdown too and what happens then?

Secondly, there is the first half of Gladstone Road that runs off JFK. If that neglect is not a disgrace it has to be a very close relative. Have we seen the development of businesses and industries in that area of late? And what message are we sending to the residents of Gladstone Road by only providing busing for one half of the stretch?

Certainly, we’re not saying that Peter is better than Paul, or are we? It is my responsibility as a citizen of this country to point out the areas of neglect or oversights that I see. And it is the responsibility of those in authority to ensure that no community, and certainly no Bahamian is left behind.

Thirdly, why are no buses going to Albany? Hundreds are employed out there; but before we get to Albany how about from Carmichael and Bacardi Road to the Coral Harbour roundabout?

So many persons have to hustle rides from that area to Albany from 5am to 9am and beyond. If we had the numbers, it would be astonishing to even the most casual observer. Not only

should this link take place from Carmichael, but there should also be a connecting route from downtown to Albany as well. Maybe an additional “incentive” can make it worth the bus drivers’ while.

As I said earlier, cars can break down and what happens then? Can you imagine how many persons would park their cars if that route was established? And we can maybe even save lives in the process.

If bus service can easily go within walking distance of virtually every major property in New Providence, is there a reason why it can’t go near Albany?

Better yet, why is Albany the exception rather than the norm?

These three areas of unpardonable neglect can all be remedied by a very simple stroke of the pen.

And the good news is that it doesn’t even have to wait until the next election.

My question to the Hon Minister JoBeth Colby is why can’t boots be on the ground next week? And wheels on the neglected roads in the weeks that follow? Extending routes to certain buses already in those areas may be the quick and easy fix until alternate routes can be created.

The situation of vulnerable women and men walking along poorly lit and isolated streets on their way to work in the small hours of the morning can sometimes create more problems than it actually solves.

And please don’t say that the unthinkable has not happened multiple times before!

“Bus Stop !!”

REDD PENN Nassau, November 23, 2023.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 24, 2023, PAGE 7

Police officer says confession was not beaten out of suspect

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A POLICE inspector denied beating a confession out of Michael Newland after Newland admitted in a police interview to being part of the armed robbery of a bus on East Street in 2014 that left a 43-year-old male passenger dead.

Newland, 29, is accused of killing Martin Flauristine during a robbery of a #1 bus on East Street near Island Games on February 24, 2014.

His trial on charges of murder and five counts of armed robbery continued yesterday before Justice Renae McKay. Inspector McKenzie previously testified that while he was attached to the Central Detective Unit, he interviewed Newland in connection with the murder in August 2016.

During this interview, Newland said that he, Arturio “Ali” Miller and

Franklyn Stubbs planned the bus robbery.

He further claimed that Miller shot the deceased when he tried to grab him during the holdup.

Responding to questions from prosecutor Timothy Bailey, Inspector McKenzie said there was no interrogation of the defendant before or after the camera stopped during the police interview.

The officer said the defendant never indicated he wanted a lawyer and was never under duress. He also said he did not rehearse questions or answers with the defendant.

Inspector McKenzie agreed with Walton Bain, the defendant’s attorney, that there was no identification or forensic evidence that pointed to Newland being the shooter.

Mr Bain told the inspector that officers had taken the defendant into a small room away from cameras before the interview. There, the lawyer claimed, his client was handcuffed to a

chair, slapped, punched and choked with a bag until he agreed to confess what they told him to say.

Inspector McKenzie denied this. He disagreed that he refused to allow the defendant a phone call and that the man’s constitutional rights were breached.

The defence attorney claimed that the defendant’s voice was damaged in the interview and that he was slumped over the table in pain.

Inspector McKenzie said that it was just the defendant’s demeanour and how he sat.

Mr Bain said it was suspicious that it took two years after the shooting for the defendant to confess and another year until he was charged in 2017.

He then suggested that the defendant wasn’t charged immediately because he needed time to heal his injuries.

Inspector McKenzie said there was nothing unusual with the

length of the police’s investigation, calling abuse claims “nonsensical”.

Responding to follow-up questions from the prosecution, the officer said he never heard the defendant grunt or make pained noises during the interview.

He also said Newland never indicated he was in pain and walked into the interview causally.

Sgt Deandro Thomas, who sat in on the interview, said he never saw the defendant get abused to coerce a confession. He said he saw no visible marks or injuries on the defendant and that Newland never asked to see a doctor.

Sgt Thomas denied Mr Bain’s suggestion that officers alluded to the defendant’s dead father to threaten a confession from him.

The officer told Mr Bailey that it was not uncommon for suspects who give confessions to appear fidgety or be bent over during an interview.

$500 FINE FOR MAN OVER MARIJUANA POSSESSION GUILT

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was fined $500 after admitting to having 11 grams of marijuana last week.

Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged Donnie Saunders, 36, with possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply Saunders was arrested after police found him with 11 grams of marijuana in New Providence on November 19. The street value of these drugs was said to be $55.

After Saunders pleaded guilty to the offence, he was ordered to pay a fine of

$500 or risk three months in prison.

Another man was placed on six months probation for a separate drug charge.

Magistrate McKinney charged Janero Williams, 19, with possession of dangerous drugs.

Police arrested Williams after they found him with three grams of marijuana in New Providence on November 16.

After pleading guilty to the offence, Williams was granted a conditional discharge when he will be placed on six months probation. Should he default, he would face a $500 fine or one month in prison.

PAIR BAILED OVER LOADED FIREARM

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN and a woman were granted bail after allegedly being found with a loaded gun in their home by police responding to a domestic incident.

Magistrate Lennox Coleby charged Nathaniel Ferguson, 29, and Tanikee Hinds, 32, with possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition with intent to supply.

Officers reportedly arrested the pair at a residence in Chippingham on the night of November

21 after police found a black Ruger .380 pistol and 28 rounds of .380 ammunition.

After pleading not guilty, the accused’s bail was set at $9,900 with one or two sureties. Under this bail, Ferguson must sign in at the Nassau Street Police Station every Wednesday and Friday by 7pm.

Hinds must sign in at the Wulff Road Police Station every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. She was also ordered to surrender her Jamaican travel documents.

The trial in this matter begins on December 12.

JAILED FOR BREAKING INTO CUSTOMS AREA

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net A MAN was sentenced to two years in prison after admitting to breaking into the Department of Customs area at the Andros airport this week.

Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged Liston Russell, 25, with shopbreaking and removing a vehicle without the owner’s permission.

Russell is accused of RUBY ANN DARLING, Deputy to the Governor General, received Mr Basil J. Moss, president of the Acklins Trade and Development Association, and members, in a courtesy call at the Office of the Governor General on Wednesday, November 15. Pictured from left: Philippa Charlton, Ida Collie, BJ Moss, Ruby Ann Darling, Beryl Ferguson and Cardie Cox. Photo: Letisha Henderson/BIS

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breaking into the Bahamas Customs’ area of the Andros Town International Airport on November 18.

On the same day, he reportedly removed Dania Hanna’s brown 2013 Nissan Cube and drove it along Queen’s Highway without her consent.

After Russell pleaded guilty to the charges and expressed remorse for his actions, he was sentenced to two years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

PAGE 8, Friday, November 24, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

The lurking danger of margarine IF corn were to be wiped from the face of the earth by a maniacal pathogen, we Bahamians would be lost for breakfast. On just about every restaurant menu throughout the archipelago, one can find “boiled fish”, “stewed fish”, “corned beef”, “tuna”, and “steamed sausage”, all traditionally served with grits.

My taste buds go crazy for buttery grits paired with boiled fish or tuna salad, accentuated by the flavorful combination of lime, goat pepper and savory onions.

Nothing feels more like a warm hug for the tummy, than steamy grits topped with golden pools of melted butter.

Now if grits are not your thing, surely you would slather the golden goodness on hot Johnny Cake.

Before we continue this mouth-watering discourse, I need to make sure you are thinking of what I am actually talking about. I do mean butter. You know, the product of churned cow’s milk. Just like disposal

By Dr Selima Hauber of One Eleuthera Foundation

diapers, dishwashing liquid and laundry detergent which we culturally assign the popular brand name as their moniker, we tend to refer to all butter-like substances as “butter”.

For most of my childhood, butter was the pale-yellow, rectangular block that was wrapped in paper; or the large tub-version that was

spreadable. Even though these products were labeled as “margarine” or “vegetable oil spread”, in my mind, it was “butter”. I did not really appreciate the difference until adulthood.

Margarine was invented in France in the late nineteenth century in response to Napoleon III’s challenge to provide a cheap butter substitute for his troops and peasant workers during the Franco-Prussian war. A French chemist rose to the challenge and developed the first “margarine” by churning beef tallow with milk. Margarine experienced a number of iterations over its lifetime. In the early 1900s,

the limited availability of beef tallow resulted in an innovation of using vegetable oils after the process of hydrogenation was discovered.

Hydrogenation allowed seed-expressed oils that are liquid at room temperature, to solidify and resemble the original margarine. Margarine is naturally white in colour, so adding dyes so that it more closely resembled butter became a practice that was banned in some countries.

Clever manufacturers got around this restriction by selling a separate packet of food colouring with the white margarine that the consumer would then knead into the spread.

The process of hydrogenation was a boon for the food science industry. Making vegetable oils solid at room temperature, more shelf stable and with a pleasant taste and texture made them the perfect, cheap replacement for butter in commercial baked goods, snack foods and fast foods. Enter the war on fat in the 80s to curb the tide of heart disease in America, vegetable shortening, and spreads were touted as the “healthier” alternative to butter and animal fats. What we did not know at the time, was that the process of hydrogenation produced dangerous trans fatty acids. Consuming trans fats increases the harmful cholesterol (LDL) and decreases the good cholesterol (HDL). This increases your risks of heart disease and stroke. Consuming trans fats also increases one’s risks of developing Type 2 diabetes. Research in the 1990s which unveiled the harmful effects of artificial trans fats in our diet led to the US Food and Drug Administration stating in 2015 that partially hydrogenated oils (the major source of trans fats) could no longer be generally recognised as safe (GRAS).

Fast forward to 2020, and the use of partially hydrogenated oils in food products is “banned” in the US, even though they can legally contain half a gram of trans fats per serving.

My personal study over the last three years into how food affects our health has led me to turn to nut and seed “milks”. I wanted to protect my children from premature puberty and to control the growth of my

own uterine fibroids. I have to say, choosing soy milk was the easy part. Total elimination of dairy products like butter and cheese, however, is near impossible. I really do enjoy butter, especially now that I have perfected sourdough breadmaking. I have made peace with butter because the alternative is far too harmful. To reduce consumption of trans fats, avoid packaged foods with “partially hydrogenated oil” in the list of ingredients. Avoid using seed or vegetable oils for cooking. Heating soybean, vegetable, corn or canola oils also produces trans fats.

Healthier choices for cooking are olive oil, avocado oil and coconut oil.

Now back to our beloved Boiled Fish and grits, with

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Johnny Cake. Knowing what I know now, when ordering tuna-and-grits at a breakfast spot, I ask if it is served with butter or margarine. I don’t take for granted that what they claim is “butter”, is really “butter”. Butter and margarine are not created equal, and I will not gamble my health on the differences.

• Dr Selima Hauber, PhD, is the agricultural education and outreach officer at OEF and CTI. Established in 2012, the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) is a non-profit organisation located in Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

For more information, visit www.oneeleuthera.org or email info@oneeleuthera. org. The Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) is the first and only postsecondary, non-profit education and training institution and social enterprise on Eleuthera. CTI operates a student training campus in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, with a 16-room training hotel, restaurant and farm.

For more information about CTI’s programmes, email: info@oneeleuthera.org.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 24, 2023, PAGE 9

The missing Bahamian holiday – when do we officially give thanks?

FIRST it was the decision to peg Bahamian currency to the US dollar when a choice between the past and the future had to be made. Call it the first milestone in a culture that would slide into alignment with its neighbour to the north over the following decades. Later it was sharing the same taste in music, fast food, the stuff of everyday life, even the jeans we wore.

Slowly, the Americanisation of Bahamians was taking shape. We bought cars with steering wheels intended for American highways and drove them on the other side of the street in The Bahamas.

The first stop on many Bahamians’ travel itinerary was predictable – Walmart or Target. We helped make Walmart America’s number one grocer. We travelled to Cleveland Clinic in Florida for annual physicals and to colleges throughout the US to visit sons and daughters studying abroad.

Unintentionally, Bahamians became more Americanised in a myriad of ways though we clung with fervor to British law.

Our holidays were an odd mixture. But something different happened this year. Maybe it was my imagination, but it seemed like more Bahamians than ever celebrated Thanksgiving, an historic record of turkeys and stuffing and cranberries on display in the food stores, more offices closing a bit earlier, a cohort of public officials in one area asking for the day off though pledging to complete work.

Saying the words out loud, the Americanisation of Bahamians, may make us bristle inside as we scramble to pull out every detail that sets us apart and makes us distinctly

By Diane Phillips

Bahamian.

Americans don’t have rake ’n scrape, probably have no idea how to make peas ’n rice or a real mac and cheese. They would never understand the role of Grammy and how she raised you up right, or backyards after church on Sunday. The opening of crawfish season, the regattas, the wailing over a body when a loved one dies, they wouldn’t get any of that, not really.

But for all those cultural nuances that set us apart, the stark reality is that we are becoming more Americanised and recognising or observing Thanksgiving is nothing to be ashamed of.

Perhaps because we have a lot to be thankful for in this post-pandemic climate with a strong economy with near full employment, we want to adopt the holiday that was the first holiday celebrated in the New World when the Pilgrims survived and celebrated the first harvest.

Perhaps there is another reason that has little to do with the economy or the reasons to be grateful. More Bahamian families have American connections, sons and daughters who went off to study, to earn a degree or certification and along the way found a soul mate, married, settled down and only return home on holidays now. Holidays like Thanksgiving when Americans have a four-day break from work.

I could spend the next 10,000 words on the heartwrenching outflux of young,

‘Saying the words out loud, the Americanisation of Bahamians, may make us bristle inside as we scramble to pull out every detail that sets us apart and makes us distinctly Bahamian.

Americans don’t have rake ’n scrape, probably have no idea how to make peas ’n rice or a real mac and cheese.’

smart, promising Bahamians and what the brain drain is doing to the country and more importantly, what it means to the future

of The Bahamas if we continue to lose many of the best and the brightest. They have their reasons for not returning, less or no opportunity in their chosen field here, lower pay at something that is not exactly what they were aiming for, higher cost of living, less to do, but mostly about the opportunity.

Thousands and thousands of Bahamians living abroad who come home for Thanksgiving, an

all-American holiday that brings loved ones home to a place that is increasingly celebrating it without calling it a holiday, cooking the turkeys and ham, the stuffing, the gravy, the sweet potato casserole and, yes, the mac and cheese.

So maybe it is time to create a Bahamian day of gratitude. We do not need to name it Thanksgiving but we can pause and appreciate those who have

lent a hand during the year, shared a meal or a story that made us laugh, gave up their seat so we could sit, or in some way made our world or the world around them a better place.

A day of gratitude is our missing holiday. So what if it is American? One more good idea is perfectly okay and a whole lot better for us than some of the ideas and habits we picked up – unintentionally, of course.

PAGE 10, Friday, November 24, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

MEMBERS of the Zonta Club of New Providence during the launch of the Orange the World Say No to Violence 2023 campaign.

KIWANIS CLUB OF OVER-THE-HILL On Saturday, November 18th, the Kiwanis Club of Over-The-Hill and our Key Clubs from RM Bailey & Jordan Prince William assisted with the painting of four Gazebos at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Center.

It was a great day mentioning our young Key Clubbers in the art of holding a paint brush and using rollers to paint the numerous post and rails that made up the Gazebos and walkways.

The Kiwanis Club of Over-The-Hill was organised on September 24, 1975, and is celebrating its 48th year of service. The Club remains the only all men’s Kiwanis club in Sunshine Division 22, Bahamas, under the Eastern Cananda & Caribbean District of Kiwanis International.

ST ANDREW’S LODGE NO 11 On Saturday, November 25, officers and members of St Andrew’s Lodge No 11, Nicholls Town, North Andros will host a rededication ceremony and banquet honoring members for hard work and dedication to the craft.

The event is a climax of efforts by the Prince Hall Lodge to reestablish a strong presence in the North Andros community

following a period of 15 years in which the Lodge Hall was in a state of ramshackle caused by hurricane damage and weathering.

Over many months, members and officers of the lodge have been involved in the refurbishment of the community centre which is to be dedicated in memory of androsians, PGM Rodger A. Munnings and PGM Bertram A Newton.

Significant contributions to the local community in Andros have followed an aggressive appeal for new membership. Worshipful Master of St. Andrew’s Lodge No 11, Albert Braynen, asserts that the members of his lodge have been on the ground and visible in the community spreading one of freemasonry’s principle tenets — Brotherly Love. Braynen invites the entire Andros community to come out to the banquet and support the brothers who have worked diligently in supporting such a great cause.

Braynen also sought to thank District Deputy Grand Master Dr Nigel Lewis and Rt Worshipful Grandmaster Leslie M Dean Sr 33° for their support of St Andrew’s No. 11 and commitment to freemasonry in our country.

St Andrew’s Lodge is appealing to the country and particularly to the entire Andros community for their support in continuing the charitable and benevolent work of freemasonry in settlements like North Andros, where many times their effect is felt far greater than in the

STANDING: Kiwanis Club of Over-The-Hill (KCOTH): Past President Berry Sweeting, SLP Chair Stanford Burrows, Kiwanian Dale Swann, Jordan Prince William (JPW) member Christina Gibson, Assist Vice-President Jayden McKinney, Asst. Secretary Inertia Morley, Asst. Treasurer Denerio Morley, member Cassidy Powell, KCOTH President Elect Jovon Woodside, JPW member Gandy Clarke, KCOTH Distinguish President Harvey Sweeting & President Dominique Gaitor. more urban townships of international Orange the World campaign, which our nation. coincides with the 16 Days of Activism to end Violence Against Women and Girls. By educating the community on what Gender-based violence is, Zontians hope to curb activities that cause detZonta Club of New riment to women and Providence launched its girls in society. These 2023 Orange the World ills include physical and Campaign with a Gender- emotional violence, based Violence Clinic trauma, and sexual haron Saturday, September assment and abuse. First 17, 2023. The event was responders, community held at CV Bethel Senior leaders and residents in PASTOR Mulling from Mount Calvary Church Sea Grape Grand High, in conjunction with the South Beach constit- Bahama in the kitchen serving food to people in the community. the South Beach constitu- uency gathered to hear Photo: Vandyke Hepburn ency and its MP, Bacchus a list of speakers bring Since 1997, ZCNP has Rolle. their expertise on the executed numerous service Zonta’s annual advo- subject. and advocacy projects and cacy is a part of an Speakers included: Dr assisted various institutions OUR Clubs and SociDenotrah Archer, Zontia, through financial contrieties page is a chance and physician; Ms Roder- butions and fundraising for you to share your icka Colie, psychologist; efforts. group’s activities with Magistrate Ian-Marie On Sunday, Novemour readers.

Darville-Miller; and the ber 26, ZCNP will join the To feature on our Royal Bahamas Police Department of Gender Clubs and Societies Force Domestic Vio- & Family Affairs Church page, submit your report lence Unit. Zonta Club of Service at Bethel Baptist to clubs@tribunemedia.

New Providence (ZCNP) Church at 11am. At 5pm net, with “Clubs Page” is a member of Zonta the same day, ZCNP will written in the subject International, a global host a webinar: Mental line. organisation of executives Health & Your Child: What For more information in business and the profes- to Watch For & How to about the page, consions working together to Help”. The Zoom Meeting tact Stephen Hunt on build a better world for ID is:897 9798 8797, pass826-2242. women and girls. word: 644686.

ZONTA CLUB OF NEW PROVIDENCE

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STUDENTS from Grace Christian Academy giving out food at Bethel Deliverance Church for Thanksgiving.

Photo: Vandyke Hepburn

SPORTS PAGE 11

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2023

Wildcats to face Tigers in Battle 4 Atlantis finale

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

T

he Villanova University Wildcats snuck past the North Carolina Tar Heels in an 83-81 overtime thriller to advance to their third Battle 4 Atlantis finals yesterday at the Imperial Arena, Paradise Island.

The semifinals victory gave them their fifth win of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) season and the Tar Heels suffered their first loss to drop to 4-1.

The Wildcats are now scheduled to face the Memphis Tigers in the final round today after the latter stopped the Arkansas Razorbacks 84-79.

Fans at the Imperial Arena were given a Thanksgiving treat courtesy of the Wildcats and Tar Heels men’s basketball teams. Both squads

SEE PAGE 14

CARL HIELD NOTCHES SECOND PRO WIN VETERAN boxer Carl Hield followed up his successful pro debut with another victory, this time at the Fight Night in Santa Marta, Colombia.

He delivered a fifth loss to the more experienced Diomedes Miranda with a third-round technical knockout at the Coliseo de Pescaito David Ruiz Ureche on Wednesday night. It was the second match for the seasoned boxer since his transition to professional bouts and he was happy to see his hard work pay off.

“First of all I want to give God thanks for giving me the opportunity to come here, be healthy and able to put on a good performance

SEE PAGE 12 FINAL RUN: The Villanova University Wildcats snuck past the North Carolina Tar Heels in an 83-81 overtime thriller to advance to their third Battle 4 Atlantis finals yesterday at the Imperial Arena, Paradise Island.

Photo: Dante Carrer

CLASS OF 2023: TWELVE INDUCTED INTO THE NATIONAL HALL OF FAME

RAS JESSE DELANCY IN A NEW UNIFORM

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@treibunemedia.net

NATIONAL HALL OF FAMERS: The 12 members of the Class of 2023 were inducted into the National Hall of Fame last night at Breezes SuperClubs. The event was originally scheduled for Government House but was moved to the new venue. Rubyann Darling, deputy to Governor General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt, presided over the induction in her absence. Also on hand for the event were Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg and Bahamas Olympic Committee president Rommel Knowles. Officials from the various sporting bodies and families of the inductees were also present. Inducted were Lawrence ‘Larry’ Davis (basketball), Anton Sealey (soccer), Allan Murray (swimming), John Johnson (basketball), Craig Flowers (golf), Peter Pratt (track and field), Mark Knowles (tennis), Irvin Taylor (cricket), Jennifer Isaacs-Dotson (volleyball), Yvonne Lockhart (softball), Fernley Palmer (boxing) and James ‘Sam’ Brown (cycling). They were all presented with their yellow jackets, indicating the significance of their achievement.

UNVEILING THE SCIENTIFIC LINK BETWEEN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND ENHANCED IMMUNE FUNCTION Fortifying Defences: Exercise’s ImmuneBoosting Qualities AS the flu season looms, our best defence might just be a regular workout routine. Beyond its well-known benefits for cardiovascular health and weight management, exercise is proving to be a key player in bolstering our immune system.

In this article, we explore the scientific link between physical activity and immune function, drawing insights from medical literature to underscore its protective benevolence.

The Immunological Symphony Engaging in regular exercise orchestrates a symphony within our immune system. Physical activity stimulates the circulation of immune cells, such as white blood cells and natural killer cells, throughout the body. This heightened

circulation enhances the surveillance and response capabilities of our immune defences.

Quoting Medical Literature: Expert Insights Renowned immunologist Dr. John A. Campbell highlights, “Regular moderate-intensity exercise is associated with a variety of beneficial immune changes, including enhancements in the response of various immune cells, pro- and antiinflammatory cytokines, and antibody production.”

Dr. David C. Nieman, an expert in exercise immunology, adds, “Exercise is a powerful modulator of the immune response, and its effects are widespread throughout the body.”

Timing Matters: Acute vs. Chronic Exercise Acute Exercise and Immune Vigilance: A single session of

DR KENT BAZARD moderate-intensity exercise can temporarily enhance immune function, providing a transient but potent boost to our defences.

Chronic Exercise and Long-Term Resilience: Consistent, long-term exercise contributes to a sustained elevation in immune surveillance, reducing the risk of infections over time.

Mitigating Stress Impact Stress, a known immunosuppressant, often accompanies the flu season.

Regular exercise acts as a counterbalance, mitigating the impact of stress on the immune system.

Physical activity promotes stress resilience, creating a harmonious environment where our immune defences can operate optimally.

Conclusion: As Flu Season Arrives in Our Sunshine Paradise, Exercise Becomes Our Defence In the sun-soaked haven of the Bahamas, where our weather dances between

SEE PAGE 14

AFTER turning in a leading performance for the Benedict College Tigers, Ras Jesse Delancy is eager to continue his collegiate volleyball career with the University of Charleston Golden Eagles.

“I decided to change schools to climb up in the volleyball rankings,” said Delancy, who is now in his junior year. “To become a better player, to be in a better programme and play better competition.”

Delancy, a 6-foot, 8-inch outside hitter, said the environment is an ideal one for him.

“I love the new environment, the city is nothing special but it helps to focus on exactly what I came here to do,” he said. “My new teammates are amazing, we push each other constantly.”

SEE PAGE 12

PAGE 12, Friday, November 24, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

THE CHAMPIONS: The Royal Bahamas Defence Force Floaters championship team celebrate after defeating The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDOCS) Interceptors to capture The Bahamas Government Departmental Softball Association’s 2023 men’s championship title.

RBDF FLOATERS CAPTURE THE BGDSA MEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP THE Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Floaters found themselves in familiar territory after defeating The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDOCS) Interceptors in dominating fashion to capture The Bahamas Government Departmental Softball Association’s 2023 men’s championship at the Blue Hill Playing Field over the weekend.

After not fielding a championship team since the 2014 campaign, the team jubilantly uncorked sparkling champagne bottles on the field, with teammates high-fiving and hugging each other. It took longer than anticipated, but the passing of the torch to the younger players has been a tremendous success.

The RBDF team won the best-of-seven series by a final score of 28-5, defeating their law enforcement counterparts in five games.

They jumped out to a commanding 23-0 lead before the men from the Correctional Service could score their first run.

Aaron Wood, Martin Conliffe and Perez Burrows all went deep for the Floaters, along with a grand slam

by Garfield Bethel. Godwin Taylor was tagged with the loss for BDOCS. Dwayne Mackey, who during his early career was a vacuum at shortstop, pitched an outstanding game.

He noted that the team was inspired to win it all after dedicating the season to former player Keith “Slimy” Moss, who is currently facing medical challenges.

A perennial slugger on numerous championship teams with the Floaters, Moss’ presence in the dugout during the series proved to be a motivational factor.

“We wanted to win this one for him (Moss), which

made this season a special one,” said Mackey, who also serves as the team manager.

“We had nine young players who all came together for one common goal, and our game plan was to put up lots of runs to let Correctional Services know who the better team is.

“I applaud their effort, but we were not about to make this final game a close one, as with the previous games.”

Establishing its supremacy as a dynasty, the RBDF Floaters have now won 30 out of a possible 42 BGDSA championships contested since the league’s inauguration in 1979, which includes a streak of 17 consecutive championships won from 1992 to 2008.

Games were not played in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

RAS DELANCY

two knockout wins under the Pan American Games for CARL HIELD with his belt. The first came in his the boxing discipline.

FROM PAGE 11

FROM PAGE 11

The 23-year-old comes in as the 2023 Division II National Player of the Year, but he admits that there’s more pressure playing at a higher level of college volleyball.

“The expectations are high, like our coach told us we’re going to be the one to control our destiny this year and I truly believe that,” he stated The Golden Eagles men’s volleyball season will start on Saturday, January 13, against Queens University of Charlotte. They have a total of 27 games to play during the regular season that will conclude on Saturday, April 13, against Princeton University.

“Not to downplay my last team but we’re in two completely different leagues,” he pointed out. “The team I’m on now was ranked nationally as high as 12th in all of the NCAA (Division 1 and Division 2).”

Although there have been other Bahamians who played for Benedict College, including Donovan Wilmott, Clint Forbes, Terran Walkin and Zion Beckford, Delancy is the only Bahamian on the men’s volleyball roster.

RAS Jesse Delancy In fact, he’s the only Bahamian on the whole campus, which is a big difference from Benedict College.

At Benedict College, Delancy participated on the Tigers’ track and field team as a high jumper. But with his emphasis on volleyball, he’s not certain if he will venture into track and field in his final two years in college.

Once he’s done with college, Delancy, who also played on the Bahamas men’s national team, has indicated that he would like to become a professional player so he’s putting all of his eggs in one basket at the University of Charleston.

against a tough rival with a good knockout. I am thankful that I got through the fight with the victory,” Hield said.

The Bahamian stepped into the ring against Miranda who had 21 wins along with 17 knockouts and only four losses coming into the super welterweight division match.

Although it was a more experienced opponent, Hield felt he had something to prove going into the match and talked about how he pulled off the TKO victory.

“I was just using my jabs, moving up and down, staying away from the big punches he was swinging in the first round to get me out quick. I did what I do best, which was hit and move. The body shots started to wear him down in the second round and then I hit him with two good body shots and he did not get back up,” he said.

The 36-year-old now has an unblemished 2-0-0 record

professional debut against Colombia’s Elkin Bolano at the International Knockout Night in Cartagena, Colombia in October. Hield pulled off a TKO in the second round of their pro boxing bout.

One of the decorated boxer’s main reasons for leaving the amateur ranks was to earn more experience ahead of next year’s Olympic qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. With another potential match in the cards for next week, he has appreciated every step of the journey so far.

“This journey has put me in a great position for the Olympic trials because if I did not decide to go pro I would have been just training until the qualifiers. I am just trying to stay as active as I could until next year,” he said.

He has faced lots of adversity in 2023, including the loss of a friend, his mother Norma Hield and not being selected to represent The Bahamas at

Despite the odds, Hield has found a silver lining in it all.

“For me after they made the decision not to send me to Pan Am I saw it as God’s plan working. It gave me a chance to get to the professional ranks because if they sent me to Pan Am, I would still be in the amateurs, “Everything paid off on my end and it just gives me motivation to keep going everyday and be the best that I can be,” he said.

The Bahamian pro boxer’s end goal remains the same, trying to qualify for next year’s Olympic Games and working towards putting himself in a position to be in contention for a world title next year.

He maintains that his will and dedication to boxing is important and wants to do it all to honour his late mother.

He offered a special thanks to the Bahamas Boxing Federation and the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.

THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 24, 2023, PAGE 13

Gainz for Life Fitness Center hopes ‘to have positive impact on everyone who joins’

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@treibunemedia.net WHILE her focus will be on her career as a professional bodybuilder, Lorraine LaFleur is leaving the day-to-day operation of her Gainz for Life Fitness Center in the capable hands of her talented young daughter Allyssa Fox. Lafleur, founder of Gainz for Life Fitness, just recently captured her second pro card when she represented The Bahamas as one of the national professional bodybuilders at the 2023 Orlando Joe Weider’s Amateur Olympia - taking home the overall women’s physique title and her 2nd IFBB Professional League Pro Card.

Now that she’s back home, LaFleur said she plans to focus on educating the members of Gainz for Life Fitness on the importance of mental and physical wellness and encouraging more individuals to participate in bodybuilding.

She intends to take a more hands-on approach with the community that has developed within her gym with Fox taking over

PRO bodybuilder Lorraine LaFleur is leaving the day-to-day operation of her Gainz for Life Fitness Center in the capable hands of her talented young daughter, Allyssa Fox. Photos: Dante Carrer the overall management of wellness.

“Therefore, Additionally, LaFleur those who they connect the Gainz for Life Fitness Gainz for Life Fitness aims and Fox will be working with to connect with and brand as the chief execu- to provide a safe, respect- on bringing in their first learn themselves. So, that tive officer. ful space where individuals line of clothing and fitness we can embody our motto: After living in Canada can focus on improving accessories shortly, so that Mind. Body. Focus on for five years and earn- their health, achieving their members can represent the you.” ing her bachelor’s degree goals and fostering rela- G4LFFAM when they’re Gainz for Life is located in finance, Fox recently tionships with the people out. “Our members are in the Danmar Plaza south returned to Nassau to take around them,” she said. amazing and quirky,” they of the East Street and over the company.

“We hope to have a posi- said. “We love the mix of Solider Road junction. At Having competed along- tive impact on everyone personalities within the present, they cater to about side her mom at ages 16 who joins the G4LF com- G4LF community, and 500 members that frequent and 17, Fox also believes munity and eventually am grateful to receive an the training facilities from that a healthy, balanced branch out to collaborate opportunity to serve them.

5am to 9pm Monday to lifestyle is crucial for an with other health cenIn the future, we hope Friday, 7am to 5pm on Satindividual to maintain tric organisations in the that the Gainz for Life urdays and 9am to 3pm on their mental and physical community.”

Fitness brand will inspire Sundays and holidays.

KIX ACADEMY OFF TO 37TH ANNUAL PLANTATION THANKSGIVING CLASSIC KIX Academy is heading to Plantation, Florida, today for the 37th annual Plantation Thanksgiving Classic.

The under-9 and under12 boys teams, entering their 4th year, eagerly anticipate the challenge in the tournament’s bronze division. Today, the u9s face off against Weston FC u9 Blue at 2:30pm, while the u12s take on Cape City FC at 3:45pm. On Saturday, matchups include the u9s against West Pines United 2015 Elite and Greater Boca YSA 2015-2016 PreAcademy, and the u12s against Greater Boca YSA 2012 Pre-Academy and Miami Stars Soccer 2012.

With the potential for semifinals and finals on Sunday, head coach Jared Higgs emphasizes developmental goals in this first international outing. “This trip will really tell us where we are at and where we need to improve.”

GIANTS AND MILLIONAIRES IN NPBA WIN COLUMN THE TMT Giants and the Mekaddish Millionaires pulled off the New Providence Basketball Association’s double header at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium on Wednesday night.

The Giants prevailed with a 65-47 rout over the University of the Bahamas Mingoes in the men’s division one feature contest, while the Millionaires held off the Heatwaves 88-83 in the division II opener.

Giants 65, Mingoes 47 Ujamaa Johnson led four players in double figures for TMT with 12 points, five rebounds, five steals and four assists in their victory.

Arlington Brown had 11 points, 20 rebounds and a pair of assists, Donovan Dean also had 11 points with four rebounds and Christophe Johnson helped out with 10 points, 10 rebounds, three steals and two block shots.

In a losing effort for UB, Theodore Grant had 16 points, six steals, five rebounds and three assists, Glenderson Black had eight points, eight rebounds, two assists and as many steals and both Timothy Grant and Erquantae Edgecombe had six points and six and five rebounds respectively.

Millionaires 88, Heatwaves 83 Javon Adderley led Mekaddish and three other players in double figures with 18 points, 11 rebounds, four steals and three assists.

Travjuan Alleyne had 15 points and 16 rebounds, Ronie Pierre had 15 points, seven assists, three rebounds and two steals and Chad-Vasughn James had 14 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Both Clayton Miller Jr and Evens Joseph had eight points each. Joseph also had six rebounds.

Johnacy Augustin had 24 points with six assists, four rebounds and two steals to pace the losers. Rhameeko Butler added 19 points with five rebounds and four steals, Dimario Markland had 15 points, 10 rebounds and three steals and Joshua Forbes had 13 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals.

Tonight’s schedule 7:30pm - Rythm Rebels vs Produce Express Rockets (DII) 8:30pm - Discount Liquors Rockets vs Sunlight Cottage Stampers (D1)

KIX Academy’s under-9 and under-12 boys’ teams are scheduled to travel to Plantation, Florida, today for the 37th annual Plantation Thanksgiving Classic.

Highlighting the significance of exposure, Higgs said: “The most important thing is the exposure. We want the players to have the best opportunities even at a young age.”

Despite facing local Bahamian u11 club teams before the tournament, the focus remains on improvement.

Acknowledging the support from parents and sponsors like Doctors

Hospital, Mexicaba, and Bahamas Wholesale Agencies, coach Higgs expresses gratitude. “Sponsors are crucial because they relieve a huge burden from the parents and the

programme itself,” he says.

“We believe in Bahamian excellence at Kix Academy, and are extremely grateful for the sponsors who see the vision and support us in reaching our goals.”

Saturday 7:30pm - Your Essential Store vs Island Development Construction Rebels (DII) 8:30pm - Island Development Rebels vs Commonwealth Banks Giants (D1)

Bahamas Junior Sunfish Nationals rock Elizabeth Harbour THE 2023 Bahamas Junior Sunfish Nationals took place this past weekend in beautiful Elizabeth Harbour in George Town, Great Exuma.

The host club, The Exuma Sailing Club, hosted the event for the first time and welcomed 10 sailors of the Bahamas National Sailing School from Nassau and 14 of its own local sailors from Exuma.

The weather conditions provided some big challenges for the smaller, younger and newer sailors to overcome with winds up over 20 knots for the majority of the races.

However the seasoned, veteran junior sailors from Nassau embraced the chance to test their skills in the typical conditions for November in Exuma - big winds and tight chop straight from the eastern end of Elizabeth Harbour.

When the competition came to an end it was two of the most familiar names in Bahamas Junior Sailing for the last few years at the top of the podium. Craig Ferguson was crowned

EXUMA Sailing Club hosted the 2023 Bahamas Junior Sunfish Nationals in beautiful Elizabeth Harbour, George Town, Exuma, for the first time and the event welcomed 10 sailors of the Bahamas National Sailing School from Nassau and 14 of its own local sailors from Exuma. the 2023 Bahamas Junior on his years of experience Other sailors recognised most tenacity and never Sunfish Champion, defend- sailing in similar condi- were Christina Manos of quit attitude throughout the ing his title from 2022 in tions in Elizabeth Harbour, The Exuma Sailing Club whole event.

Nassau. Trading wins back Knowles kept the pres- for the rookie sailor of the Coach Dallas Knowles, and forth with him during sure on Ferguson and regatta. of The Exuma Sailing the entire regatta and fin- Weech throughout the Also, Jaron Francis of the Club, praised the efforts ishing one point behind was competition.

Bahamas National Sailing of the Nassau sailors and Joshua Weech, also of the Finishing in fourth was School for the “Class Act” Bahamas National Sailing Bahamas National Sailing Norman Carthwright from sportsmanship award and School. “It’s always great School. the Bahamas National Sail- Kianno Hutchinson of The to have sailors visit us and Third overall from the ing School and in 5th was Exuma Sailing Club for enjoy sailing in one of the Exuma Sailing Club was Tanaj Manos of the Exuma the “GRIT” award, given most beautiful places in Joss Knowles. Drawing Sailing Club. to the sailor that shows the The Bahamas. We know

the efforts it takes to bring teams of sailors and boats to off-island regattas, so hats off to Pedro Rahming from the BNSS as well as Jimmie and Lori Lowe for their amazing efforts to help make this regatta happen.

“We look forward to hosting this and similar events here for years to come.

“We enjoy the competition against higher level sailors, especially having two of the best here in Craig and Joshua, it helps show us how much farther we need to go as a club to compete.

“On the whole, we are very happy with the sailing and sportsmanship shown by all the athletes this past weekend and of course we are so proud of our Exuma Sailing Club sailors for being good hosts and competing hard for the whole weekend.”

Most known for hosting the National Family Island Regatta every year in April, Exuma has now also hosted two national sailing events, Opti Nationals in 2020 and now Sunfish Nationals this year.

PAGE 14, Friday, November 24, 2023

THE TRIBUNE

THE WINDSOR rowing team with their coaches.

Windsor rowing teams win medals

By BRENT STUBBS Senior Sports Reporter bstubbs@treibunemedia.net DIRECTOR of rowing and head coach Rob Gibson said he was very impressed with the Windsor School Albany’s 10-member team that captured a pair of silver medals at the Brenderson Chase Regatta in Sarasota, Florida, over the weekend.

Isaiah Ellis, a 16-yearold 12th grader, led the way for the team with his silver medal performance in the men’s under-17 singles 1x, while Priya Alexander (14), Alessandra Callender (15), Emman Reynolds (15), Brooklyn Louis (15) and Emma Johnston (13) teamed up for the other silver in the women’s under17 Coxed Four 4+.

“The performances of the team exceeded our expectations,” said Gibson, who was assisted by Kali Brown.

“We arrived late on Friday evening due to maintenance repairs of our aircraft. “By the time we got to Tampa and drove to Sarasota, the course was closed, so we couldn’t go for a practice run. So the team did well. They raced in multiple events. It was a wonderful weekend and the team represented Windsor School and the Bahamas with integrity and pride.”

If they had gotten there in time to practice, Gibson said he’s convinced that both Ellis and the girls’ team would have had a better chance to win the gold.

SILVER medal girls coxed four team with assistant coach Kali Brown and head coach Rob Gibson.

The other members of the Windsor team were Jake Young, 17, Andre Forbes, 17, Sandor Bianchi, 16 and Malcolm Menzies, 15.

Ellis, competing out of a field of 29 competitors, said when he decided to attend a rowing summer camp three years ago as a student at St John’s College, it changed his life because he was so impressive that he earned a scholarship at Windsor School. He noted that he’s

seen a dramatic improvement in his performances as he earned his third consecutive silver medal overseas.

His previous performances came in Virginia and Texas. “My single race was amazing. Being able to do a 5k on such a wonderful course was amazing,” Ellis said.

“I was very pleased with the way I performed.”

Despite his latest performance, Ellis felt that if he can improve on his weight

and get his oar off the water, he would be more fluent in the future.

As for the Windsor School rowing team, Ellis said they couldn’t ask for a better coach than Gibson, who has enabled them to develop a family-oriented atmosphere with their team-mates, which both attribute to their success.

“This is just a great environment to be around,” he stated. “I’m just glad to be a part of the team.”

Gibson, a three-time Canadian Olympian who has been working with Windsor Academy for the past three years, said the progress of the programme at Windsor School has been moving steadily in the right direction. “We have a lot of interest here at the school in competing on the rowing team,” he said. “We have 10 members on our senior team and we have 11 members who have been trying out for our club team,

BATTLE 4 ATLANTIS

DR KENT BAZARD

FROM PAGE 11

came into the matchup following blowout wins against their respective opponents in the opening round and wanted nothing more than to advance to the championship game.

In the opening quarter, both teams showed up to play and were unable to create a significant margin on the scoreboard. The Tar Heels still managed to separate the teams by 2 (34-32) to prepare for the second half of NCAA basketball.

Despite a small lead going into the second half, the Tar Heels and Wildcats remained neck and neck in the semifinals contest.

The game was tied multiple times in the second half until the Tar Heels got a nine-point advantage (5546) after guard RJ Davis knocked down a jumper at 10:52.

However, the Wildcats erased the lead with a 9-0 run and some strong offensive play by Eric Dixon to even the score at 57.

The Wildcats forward had a career night in points with 34 to pair alongside 10 rebounds for a monster double-double in the win.

He shot 11-for-19 on 58 per cent shooting and made three buckets from behind the arc.

It was a see-saw affair the rest of the way in the second half. The final moments of regulation saw Dixon once again knock down a big two-pointer, this time at 3:08 to propel the Wildcats by 3. Tar Heels guard Ryan Cormac splashed a threepointer from the corner on

which trains once or twice a week after school.

“The top team trains up to seven times a week right now and the other team just trains once or twice a week.

It’s a good number, but we look forward to expanding the team as we look forward to purchasing more equipment.”

While he calls it both a challenging and a rewarding experience for him personally, Gibson said the future is very bright for rowing, both at the school and in the Bahamas as well.

“I think the young athletes that I have seen here are exceptionally resilient and every time we get an opportunity to go out and perform, they always rise to the occasion, so I’m a very proud coach.”

Gibson said at the end of this semester, Windsor School will hold a 2,000 metre rowing test on Thursday, December 7 at the school where the members will be drilled on their physical fitness and their potential of the sport.

“It’s the main source of information that the college coaches use to recruit potential rowing members for athletic scholarships,” Gibson said.

As they begin the new school year, Gibson said they will look at taking the team to another Florida regatta in January or February. There are a number of other regattas that the Windsor School intends to participate in as the school year continues.

FROM PAGE 11

warmth and occasional chills during flu season, staying healthy is as critical a local art form as Junkanoo.

With visitors flocking to our shores, ensuring our immune system is in top form becomes a shared mission. The immune-boosting wonders of regular exercise aren’t just some beachside chat; they’re backed by solid science.

So, in the face of the seasonal viral Junkanoo, let’s slip into our sneakers, hit the road, park, or gym, and give our immune systems a tropical workout to keep the flu at bay.

In the words of your friendly neighbourhood sports medicine physician, “Exercise is Medicine!”

UÊ ÀÊ i ÌÊ >â>À`Ê ÃÊ >Ê Bahamian sports medicine physician, sports performance coach, sports nutrition specialist and founder of Empire Sports Medicine. Our mission is to empower athletes to reach new heights while safeguarding their health and well-being. We understand the unique demands of sports activities, and we are dedicated to helping athletes prevent injuries, overcome challenges, optimise nutrition and performance.

an assist from Elliot Cadeau to match the Wildcats on the scoreboard at 68.

The extra period of play got underway but the pattern of the game remained the same. Both teams refused to give an edge until Villanova’s Justin Moore, who scored five points in OT, converted two shots at the charity stripe to make the lead 81-76.

Davis, of North Carolina, responded with a twopointer and on the night had a team-high 23 points in the loss. Villanova guard Mark Armstrong had 10 points in the game, two of which were successful free throws to ice the game for the Wildcats.

Harrison Ingram dropped 20 points on 6-for-8 shooting for the Tar Heels in the loss. Meanwhile, forward Armando Bacot scored eight points and pulled down 18 rebounds.

The championship game begins at 3:30pm and the third place match will be played at 1pm today in the Imperial Arena.

Photos by Dante Carrer

ON THE REPLAY: The Villanova University Wildcats snuck past the North Carolina Tar Heels yesterday in an 83-81 overtime thriller to advance to their third Battle 4 Atlantis finals at the Atlantis resort’s Imperial Arena on Paradise Island.

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THE TRIBUNE

Friday, November 24, 2023, PAGE 15

SPORTS CALENDAR BASKETBALL BAHA MAR HOOPS THE segment of the Baha Mar Hoops will get underway today when the Nassau Championships will be staged in the Baha Mar Convention Center.

The eight men’s division one teams competing are the University of North Carolina Greensboro, Brown, Delaware, George Washington, UIC, Kansas City, Middle Tennessee and Ohio.

Four games will be played daily from 11am today until Sunday.

Nov 2023

UÊ iÀi½ÃÊ>Ê Ê>ÌÊÌ `>Þ½ÃÊ >ÌV Õ«\ 11am - UNC Greensboro vs Kansas City £\Îä« Ê Ê À Ü ÊÛÃÊ i >Ü>Ài {\Îä« Ê Ê `` iÊ/i iÃÃiiÊÛÃÊ1 7pm - Ohio vs George Washington Game times for Saturday and Sunday will be the same with semifinal games Ê->ÌÕÀ`>ÞÊ>ÌÊ{\Îä« Ê> `ÊÇ« °Ê Sunday’s championship game is scheduled for tip-off at 7pm.

All games will be streamed live by FloHoops.