11292024 NEWS AND SPORT by tribune242

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DID DRUG CONSPIRACY SWAY MURDER PROBE?

Man initially held in Giovani killing also named in US case

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

Chief Reporter

THE family of Giovani Rolle, who was brutally murdered in June, is questioning whether the police investigation into his death was compromised in view of explosive corruption allegations involving some law enforcement officers and a man previously identified as a suspect in their brother’s murder. Their concerns emerged following the release of a United States federal indictment, which accuses high-ranking officers and the man initially arrested in the case of facilitating drug trafficking operations to the US Government officials

NYGARD DENIED EXTRADITION APPEAL BY CA N ADIA N COURT

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

THE Supreme Court of Canada has reportedly rejected a request for leave to appeal regarding former fashion mogul Peter Nygard’s extradition to the United States. According to The Canadian Press, the court did not provide reasons for its decision to decline the case, which is standard practice. In May, the Manitoba Court of Appeal rejected Nygard’s request for a judicial review of the extradition order. His lawyers had hoped to bring the matter before the high court. US authorities are seeking Nygard’s extradition

Pintard calls for new House Speaker ‘able to be fair to the rest of us’

BY DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

OPPOSITION Leader

Michael Pintard has called for the urgent appointment of a more independent

Speaker of the House of Assembly, citing concerns over what he perceives as a lack of fairness toward Opposition members.

Mr Pintard said House Speaker Patricia Deveaux has compromised the

independence of Parliament and should be removed from her post. I no longer accept that the Speaker is able to be fair to the rest of us,”

‘arrests may harm Police PartnershiP s’

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe said that recent corruption allegations involving senior law enforcement ofﬁcers could harm The Bahamas’ partnerships with international policing agencies. Mr Munroe, who is attending a CARICOM Security Ministers meeting in St Kitts, said the extent of the impact will ultimately depend on the judgment of these agencies. However, he said it is vital for the government to address the issue headon to show its commitment to holding everyone accountable.

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS

Staff Reporter

THE government is being called on to adopt a comprehensive approach to tackling corruption in the wake of allegations of a cocaine smuggling conspiracy involving law enforcement ofﬁcials and politicians.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis announced plans to introduce new legislation to strengthen oversight of law enforcement agencies. While welcoming the

NATIONAL Security Minister Wayne Munroe

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Atlantis gives thanks to staff

THANKSGIVING

might not be a Bahamian holiday, but that didn’t stop Atlantis Paradise Island from embracing the festive spirit with food, fun, and heartfelt appreciation for its team members.

“Today we are celebrating,” said Audrey Oswell, Atlantis President and Managing Director.

“Even though Thanksgiving is not a Bahamian

AUDREY OSWELL, president and managing director of Atlantis, serves Thanksgiving meals to staff members in the Atlantis staff cafeteria yesterday.

Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Did drug conspiracy sway murder probe?

confirmed that Donald Ferguson, a pilot, was arrested in the departure lounge of the domestic terminal at Lynden Pindling International Airport in connection with Mr Rolle’s death, but was released from custody pending further investigations.

To date, police have not charged anyone in connection with Mr Rolle’s murder.

Ferguson is one of 13 individuals named in the indictment as allegedly involved in the drug trafficking conspiracy.

The indictment also names Chief Superintendent of Police Elvis Curtis, the officer in charge of aviation operations, and Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker of the Defence Force, both of whom were arrested earlier this week.

Melanie Rolle-Hilton, one of Giovani’s four sisters, expressed concern that the investigation into his death might have been compromised due to the allegations in the indictment.

The family also

questioned CSP Curtis’s involvement in the investigation, particularly regarding his role in a case tied to the airport.

“What makes it even more disturbing now is these alleged allegations that took place at LPIA, the very same place where our brother was brutally murdered,” Mrs RolleHilton said.

“And the senior officer is in charge of the airport of aviation. To think that the law enforcement officers being entrusted to conduct this investigation are also suspects of these criminal allegations in the indictment. I mean, it’s deeply troubling.”

Mr Rolle, a Jet Nassau employee, was shot multiple times after arriving at work on June 16. He died in the ambulance on his way to Doctors Hospital, surrounded by relatives.

Mrs Rolle-Hilton said the family had not received any new updates on the police investigation and had hired private investigators to help them get answers.

She raised concerns that possible corruption within law enforcement may have influenced the

investigation into Mr Rolle’s murder.

“You know, from the very beginning, from our previous interviews, we said we gave the police the benefit of the doubt, trusting that they would conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into our brother’s tragic death,” she added.

“But instead of them having conducted a diligent investigation, we faced a constant struggle being forced to push for even the most basic updates from the original investigators.”

She said the lack of answers is taking a mental toll on the family, but vowed to continue fighting until justice is served.

“We’re going to continue doing what we can to ensure that we get justice for our brother. Because, you know, my brother was a law-abiding citizen of good character and just to know that he’s not been given the basic dignities, it’s deeply troubling. We grieve.”

Police officials did not respond to requests for comment by press time yesterday.

Nygard denied extradition appeal by Canadian court

from page one

based on a nine-count indictment from New York, which accuses him of engaging in illegal activities related to the sexual abuse and trafﬁcking of women and minors.

The 83-year-old was sentenced to 11 years in prison in September for sexually assaulting four women in Toronto, Canada, from the late 1980s to 2005. He could serve about 6.7 years of his sentence after getting credit for time served and will be eligible for full parole in 27 months and day parole in 21 months. The founder of the defunct Nygard International also faces one count of sexual assault and one count of forcible conﬁnement in Quebec along with sex-related charges in Winnipeg.

He has denied all allegations against him and the charges in those jurisdictions or in the US have not been tested in court. Nygard is appealing his convictions in Ontario.

GIOVANI ROLLE

Pintard calls for new House Speaker

‘able

to be fair to the rest of us’

said Mr Pintard in Grand Bahama on Thursday. “We have members of the executive bullying the Speaker, and the Speaker is willing to comply.”

On Wednesday, Ms Deveaux prevented Mr Pintard from speaking after Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis addressed a US indictment alleging that senior police and defence ofﬁcers in The Bahamas were involved in the

shipment of tons of cocaine into the United States.

Ms Deveaux claimed Mr Pintard had not followed the rules and stopped him from giving his communication, suspending House proceedings until December 4.

Mr Pintard said the structure of the country’s government is tripartite, consisting of the legislature, which is presided over by the Speaker, the judiciary, led by the Chief Justice, and the executive, headed by

the prime minister.

“The system, the way it is presently organised, has robbed us of an independent Parliament, which is why we must move with a sense of urgency towards putting someone in place, supported by an infrastructure and an ecosystem where they can make strong independent decisions,” he said.

“In the absence of the system changing, we are going to have challenges. But also, you need in the

chair somebody with the conviction and independence in terms of their character that they would be fair to all persons.”

Mr Pintard said the Opposition will not back down from holding the government accountable.

“We are not prepared to be silenced. We believe if they do not permit us to have a voice, no one else in the House will have a voice. We will challenge them every time.”

He stressed the

importance of the Opposition being allowed to ask questions on the second Wednesday of each month, as outlined in House rules.

Mr Pintard said there are several pressing issues on the agenda that government ministers have refused to address.

“We are concerned about decisions made around electricity that have raised the cost of electricity, and about families who are hungry, and we are asking what provisions are you

putting in place to address food insecurity.”

He also highlighted the need for answers regarding accommodations for women and children ﬂeeing dangerous situations.

“We want to know what steps are being taken to create safe spaces where they are able to live for a period of time,” he said.

“None of these are questions the government is willing on a consistent basis to address.”

Sands criticises lack of security at Parliament

By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

FREE National Movement (FNM) chairman Dr Duane Sands criticised the lack of security in Parliament following Coalition of Independents (COI) leader Lincoln Bain’s disruption of an Opposition press conference on Wednesday.

Dr Sands spoke after

the incident in the minority room of the House of Assembly, which FNM leader Michael Pintard described as “a disgraceful display of clout chasing”.

“We collectively have spoken about the laissezfaire approach to security in the people’s parliament,”

Dr Sands said. “There are no metal detectors, there’s no screening, there’s no real security to speak of.

It’s expected that people will behave reasonably and without threat to the persons that are in the parliament and that clearly is not the case.”

Mr Bain, accompanied by supporters, entered the room and accused Mr Pintard of being a weak leader.

“He came into a space where we were, in fact, having a press conference to address the government’s

failings,” Mr Pintard said. “If he was serious about challenging the government, one of the things he would have done is turn his attention on those issues.”

The Tribune reached out to Chief Clerk of the House David Forbes, who said Bain’s interruption did not constitute a security breach. Mr Forbes said opposition members could have requested

security to remove Mr Bain, but no such request was made.

“This has nothing to do with a breach of security in the House of Assembly at all,” Mr Forbes said, noting that no formal complaints were lodged following the incident.

“I didn’t know about it until probably an hour or two after the incident happened. There was no feedback from the opposition or any member of Parliament saying that any security was breached or protocol violated.”

However, Dr Sands took issue with the broader

state of security within Parliament, calling for more robust measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“It will be a cold day in July before he’s allowed within the precinct of any event the FNM holds,” Dr Sands said, referencing Mr Bain.

Mr Pintard dismissed Mr Bain as “irrelevant” and said the opposition would no longer engage with him.

“It was the most disgraceful display of clout chasing,” Mr Pintard said. “We will ignore him from this point on.”

THE COALITION of Independents (COI) leader Lincoln Bain interrupts Free National Movement (FNM) deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright, FNM chairman Dr Duane Sands, Marco City MP and Opposition

Leader Michael Pintard and East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson during a press conference in the Minority Room of the House of Assembly on Tuesday.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

‘Arrests may harm police partnerships’

“This is why we have to address it aggressively,” he said as a guest on Guardian Radio’s Morning Blend with Dwight Strachan.

A federal indictment by the United States District Court Southern District of New York has accused members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) of providing critical assistance to drug trafﬁckers smuggling tons of cocaine from South America through The Bahamas to the US.

Prosecutors claim that corrupt ofﬁcials received millions in bribes, used their positions to support the drug trade, obstruct DEA operations, and protect

trafﬁckers from arrest with intelligence from such partnerships as OBPAT (Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Island).

When asked how the allegations could impact The Bahamas’ partnership with OBPAT, Mr Munroe said such claims could likely inﬂuence how international partners view the country.

For instance, he added that the allegations could lead to a reassessment of how they engage with local law enforcement ofﬁcers moving forward.

“I discovered from defence force ofﬁcers and marines who served on board a ship ride of the coast guard that they’re not allowed in the command centre with the radar feeds,” he added, “and so if this justiﬁes their lack of

trust of us then that creates a very real problem in being full partners.”

He also addressed a National Geographic documentary released earlier this year, which focused on a smuggler at Nassau’s airport and raised concerns about drug trafﬁcking.

Mr Munroe said the documentary and the indictment are unrelated, stressing the indictment involves a far more serious matter.

“The (documentary) is talking about someone taking a kilo or so through the airport,” he said. “This indictment and this is what the prime minister is speaking about isn’t talking about something low level like that. It’s talking about something coordinated, large scaled where

quantities are ﬂown in by plane, broken down and taken in by boats.”

“That is what the indictment says and that is why this is so serious.”

The indictment, which names 11 Bahamians, including two senior law enforcement ofﬁcers and alleges the involvement of a high-ranking politician, has heightened scrutiny of the country’s law enforcement agencies.

When asked about calls for his resignation, Mr Munroe said the decision rests with the prime minister.

Meanwhile, OPM’s communications director, Latrae Rahming, said in a release yesterday that no Bahamian politician has been publicly linked to the allegations.

ORG calls for deliberate action on corruption

Prime Minister’s commitment, ORG deputy executive director Steffon Evans stressed the importance of fully implementing existing measures, such as the Freedom of Information Act and the Ofﬁce of the Ombudsman.

“I think ﬁrst and foremost, it’s important to recognise the need for deliberate action to be taken in the aftermath of serious allegations of corruption,” Mr Evans said.

“At the Organisation for Responsible Governance, this is one of the primary things that we promote. We stand ﬁrm on our stance that corruption needs to be

tackled at a systemic level to ensure that The Bahamas has the tools it needs to prevent, detect, and respond to corruption.

“And so, while the plans that have been put forward by the Prime Minister are certainly an important step, we also encourage taking that a step further by making sure that key pieces of legislation, like the Freedom of Information Act, the Ofﬁce of the Ombudsman, and several others, like the potential for an integrity commission, be given adequate attention and necessary funding in the annual budgets.”

The Tribune understands the Davis administration plans to table the Security

Forces Inspectorate Bill, which would establish a body to oversee all security forces in The Bahamas. This initiative aims to address long-standing resource challenges faced by the Police Complaints Inspectorate, which oversees the police force’s Complaints and Corruption Branch. National Security Minister Wayne Munroe has indicated the new Inspectorate will be more robust and ﬁll existing gaps. Mr Davis has pledged to table oversight legislation before the Christmas break.

“We haven’t gotten our hands on that bill yet, and what we would encourage, as is the case with any piece of legislation of public

interest, is that it be a crosssector collaboration, making sure there’s input from the citizenry, civil society, and the private sector, as necessary, to make sure that the bills are representative of the needs of the communities and that they’re actionable, efﬁcient, and effective in execution,” Mr Evans said. While expressing concern over the allegations, Mr Evans emphasised the need for all facts to emerge before drawing conclusions. He reiterated ORG’s commitment to working with the government and other stakeholders to create a stronger framework for combating corruption in The Bahamas.

“Any long-term governance reform will require the collaboration of the government, all other sectors, and the public,” Mr Evans said.

“It’s important to bring the other sectors and the citizens along, to educate them and make sure they understand what’s happening every step of the way.”

On Tuesday, Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander announced the arrest in the US of Chief Superintendent of Police Elvis Curtis, the officer in charge of Lynden Pindling International Airport, and Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker of the Defence Force, who are accused of facilitating drug trafficking operations.

Eleven other people, some Bahamians, were named in the US federal indictment. A politician is also accused of involvement in the alleged conspiracy. According to US prosecutors, CSP Curtis allegedly told investigators that a high-ranking Bahamian politician would authorise the involvement of Bahamian law enforcement ofﬁcials in unlawful activities in exchange for $2m.

Several Cabinet ministers, including Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, Labour Minister Pia Glover Rolle, and National Security Minister Wayne Munroe, have said they are not the politician allegedly involved.

US Embassy: We are committed to work with Bahamas to combat corruption

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

THE US Embassy in Nassau has reafﬁrmed the US government’s commitment to working with The Bahamas to combat corruption after a US federal indictment highlighted serious corruption allegations involving law enforcement ofﬁcers.

In a statement sent to The Tribune yesterday, the embassy conﬁrmed it is closely monitoring any developments connected to the indictment but noted that it cannot comment on the ongoing judicial process.

The indictment accuses members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) of providing critical assistance to drug traffickers smuggling tons of cocaine from South America through The Bahamas to the United States. Prosecutors allege corrupt officials received millions of dollars in bribes and used their positions to facilitate the drug trade, obstruct DEA operations, and shield traffickers from arrest.

“It is important to note that the Southern District of New York (SDNY) operates as an independent entity, separate from the executive branch. The United States maintains an extradition treaty with The Bahamas, stipulating any Bahamian or US citizen accused of a crime covered in the treaty may be subject to extradition,” the embassy’s statement read.

“The US government remains committed to working with The Bahamas to combat corruption. Globally corruption undermines democracy and provides openings for criminals, trafﬁckers, and terrorists.”

The statement also noted that US Chargé d’Affaires Kimberly Furnish recently attended the 60th anniversary celebration of women

in policing, where she reafﬁrmed the “unwavering” commitment to collaborate with The Bahamas to ensure the security of both nations.

“Furthermore, as a part Northern Caribbean Security Summit (NOCSS) military and law enforcement representatives from The Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands, the United Kingdom, and United States coordinate regionally to advance our shared security objectives.”

The embassy’s statement followed this week’s arrest of Chief Superintendent of Police Elvis Curtis, the officer in charge of the Lynden Pindling International Airport, and Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker of the Defence Force, who are accused of facilitating drug trafficking operations into the United States.

Eleven other people, most of whom are Bahamians, were named in the US federal indictment. Among them is Sergeant Prince Albert Symonette, a pensioner from the Royal Bahamas Police Force, who has been immediately suspended, according to the Commissioner of Police.

It is unclear if US prosecutors has requested or plans to request the extradition of those mentioned in the indictment.

National Security Minister Wayne Munroe told The Tribune yesterday that he has not yet received conﬁrmation of such a request. If made, it would be addressed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

“The US has to request their extradition. If they do so (and) if persons don’t voluntarily surrender as Sam Bankman-Fried did, the matter is dealt with by a stipendiary and circuit magistrate,” Mr Munroe said.

Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell declined to comment on the matter when contacted by this newspaper yesterday.

NATIONAL SECURITY MINISTER WAYNE MUNROE

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

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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

Contributing Editor 1972-1991

RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.

Publisher/Editor 1972-

Published daily Monday to Friday Shirley & Deveaux Streets, Nassau, Bahamas N3207

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MOW, stop ignoring big pothole

EDITOR, The Tribune.

FOR far too long, we the residents in Garden Hills have been dealing with a frustrating and dangerous problem that shows how neglected our community’s roads have become. On an unnamed road off Allen Drive, a massive pothole - 12 feet long, 10 feet wide, and eight inches deep have been causing daily headaches for individuals who drive through this road. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience. This crater is damaging cars, flattening tires, and forcing drivers to crawl through it, hoping for the best. This pothole takes up the entire road, so there’s no way to avoid it. Residents have been

Action is proof of integrity

EDITOR, The Tribune.

Accountability is a measure of a leader’s height.”

- Jeffrey Benjamin “Everything is on the table. We will have change, we will have reform, and we will have action.

- Philip ‘Brave’ Davis

IN the wake of arguably the biggest scandal in recent history for The Bahamas Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis addressed the House of Assembly and said nothing to allay the shame and anger felt by the public over such egregious charges and accusations.

Besides being a long and often repetitive speech, Mr Davis did little to instil conﬁdence of a swift and thorough handling of the situation, much less alluding to any actionable rebuilding of the public’s trust, and our international reputation.

To have high-ranking ofﬁcers of both the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Royal Bahamas Defence Force arrested on drug and ﬁrearm-related charges is a stain on the country’s reputation.

again in the spotlight. The public wants strong decisive action, but we instead are faced with meandering non-commitment to look into the matter, and a promise to deal with those who have done wrong.

The problem with this is there is no track record of strong decisive leadership, and even in the face of such a heinous set of charges, it does not appear to be coming.

Not even considering his political future, Mr Davis must surely understand that this is an incredible harm that has been done to The Bahamas’ reputation. His duty to the people is to literally ‘leave no stone unturned’ as he said in his speech yesterday. But this cannot be mere words, these words must spur action.

establish clear checks and balances, and empower independent bodies to investigate and act when breaches occur.”

Is this simply a knee-jerk reaction? Was there any legitimate effort to produce this legislation prior to this week’s arrests? Will this be rushed and full of loopholes?

It does, in the moment feel as a move to be seen as doing something. And while certainly there is the need for such legislation (begging the question of what mechanisms currently exist in the law to hold anyone in authority to account), perhaps rushing it does not serve us well. Get it done, but ensure it is done correctly.

complaining about this issue for months. The Ministry of Works and the office of the MP for Garden Hills were contacted many times, but despite efforts, nothing has been done to fix it.

On Saturday, November 23, the FNM Garden Hills executive team decided we couldn’t wait any longer. We took matters into our own hands and hired a backhoe to fill the pothole. It’s not a permanent solution, but it gives residents some relief for now. Still, we can’t keep patching things up ourselves. This road needs proper repairs, and it needs them now. Why is this street being ignored? Why have the repeated complaints from

residents not been acted on? The people of Garden Hills deserve answers and action.

We deserve better than quick fixes. We need safe roads and leaders who listen to us and act when we need them to. This isn’t just about fixing a pothole; it’s about making sure the concerns of our community are taken seriously.

My fellow residents, don’t lose hope. Let’s keep pushing for the changes we need. Together, we can make sure our voices are heard and our community gets the attention it deserves.

D’ANGELO FERGUSON Nassau, November 24, 2024.

Not to mention, the current handling of another accusation of corruption with Chief superintendent Michael Johnson leaves much to be desired in the way of transparency and accountability, the Bahamian people’s trust in those charged with our protection has been all but erased.

The erosion of trust ﬂows right back to the leader of the country. Mr Davis’ penchant for wafﬂe on things that matter to the country’s people is

When dealing with such rank corruption, the Prime Minister must understand that any and all investigations must be transparent. You cannot expect any restoration of trust locally or globally when everything is done behind closed doors.

Amazingly, Mr Davis has promised, “This month, I will bring to Parliament new legislation aimed at strengthening oversight of the conduct and operations of our law enforcement agencies. This legislation will ensure that no individual or institution is above accountability. It will provide mechanisms to prevent corruption,

While Mr Davis has not yet proven with actions that he is up to the task, there is a clear path to redeeming a lacklustre response to such serious charges. That does not involve tabling legislation and having a talk with the Chief of Police. Rather, utilising facts, hold people accountable now: whether those lead you to suspend or even ﬁre leaders of the police force, the defence force all the way up to possible Cabinet Members. Action must be swift and decisive and deal rightly with all involved, no matter who it is. It is time for you, Prime Minister, to ‘show the measure of the man’ and do all in your power to swiftly restore the name and reputation of The Bahamas. The buck stops with you.

TIMOTHY ROBERTS New Providence November 27, 2024.

COLE Escola rides a float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade yesterday in New York.

Photo: Charles Sykes/Invision/AP

Atlantis chief expects strong ﬁrst quarter in new year

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

ATLANTIS is currently operating at 90 percent occupancy, according to the resort’s president, Audrey Oswell, who expects the ﬁrst quarter of next year to match the strong performance of the ﬁrst quarter of 2024

Speaking to reporters at Atlantis’ annual staff thanksgiving luncheon yesterday, Ms Oswell credited events like the Battle for Atlantis for contributing to the resort’s success.

She also acknowledged a slowdown in bookings during the recent US election period but expressed

optimism for a recovery. We saw that during the election and prior to the election in the US that there was a lot of distraction and our booking pace had slowed down, but it’s returning to normal levels now,”she said yesterday. “We just launched our annual cyber sale, we are seeing a great response to that, and I expect that quarter 1 of next year will start to return to the levels that we saw in quarter one of 2024.”

She highlighted airlift challenges as a key issue impacting future performance, adding that key markets like the US Northeast, Southern Florida, and the storm-affected

Midwest have shown positive activity.

“It’s basically depending on airlift, and airlift has been a challenge for us recently. It’s a challenge for us going into next year, and we are working with the Ministry of Tourism to really make sure that we have the airlift that we need to get our guest[s] here.”

In a press release recently, Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) ofﬁcials recently reported that passenger numbers this holiday season might fall slightly short of last year’s record-breaking ﬁgures.

The Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) noted that over 45,000 passengers travelled through

LPIA during Thanksgiving weekend alone in 2023.

Meanwhile, Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association president Robert Sands has said the resort industry faced slower growth in the second half of 2024 compared to 2023. Similarly, Baha Mar president Graeme Davis noted that business had softened compared to expectations.

“We had high expectations throughout ‘24 from ‘23’s record-setting numbers, but we’re ﬁnding that there is a softening in the market, particularly in luxury, particularly in the Caribbean,” he said in September, adding that 2025 bookings were not as robust as initially forecast.

Pintard hosts Thanksgiving dinner for over 200 senior citizens

THREE MEN GE T PROBAT ION ON SEPARAT E DRUG CHARGES

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

THREE men were placed on six months probation after admitting to two separate drug charges.

Senior Magistrate Raquel Whyms arraigned Zhivago Cooper, 51, and James Simeon, 23, on charges of possession of dangerous drugs. Norman Seymour, 52, was also charged with possession of dangerous drugs.

Cooper and Simeon were found with 5g of marijuana

on November 24 in New Providence. In a separate incident on the same date, Seymour was found with 8g of marijuana. All three defendants pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted to using marijuana recreationally.

The men were placed on six months probation and ordered to enroll in drug counseling. If they breach the conditions of their probation, they will face a one-month prison term.

Sergeant 2257 Wilkinson served as the prosecutor.

TWO WOMEN ACCUSED OF INJURING 10-YEAR-OLD BOY

By PAVEL BAILEY

Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

TWO women were granted bail yesterday after being accused of injuring a ten-year-old boy left under their supervision.

Senior Magistrate Anishka Isaacs arraigned Shanica Lewis, 47, and Marvette Bethel, 25, on charges of cruelty to children. The defendants are

accused of breaking the boy’s ﬁnger while he was in their care on October 28 in New Providence. Both women pleaded not guilty to the charges. With no objection to bail from prosecutor Assistant Superintendent of Police Bowles, the defendants were granted bail of $2,000 each, with one or two sureties required. The trial is scheduled to begin in February.

SIS T ERS CHARGED WI T H S T EALING $10K FROM DUNKIN DONU T S

By PAVEL BAILEY

Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

TWO sisters were granted bail after they allegedly stole more than $10,000 while working at Dunkin Donuts earlier this year.

Senior Magistrate Kendra Kelly arraigned Dendra Hanna, 32, and Bronique Hanna, 28, on separate counts of stealing by reason of employment.

Dendra while working at the restaurant is accused of stealing $5,524.86 between

January 1 and February 9. During the same timeframe, Bronique allegedly stole $6,610.19 from the same restaurant. Both defendants pleaded not guilty. The bail was set at $3,500 with one or two sureties each. Under the terms of their bail, they must sign in at the East Street South Police Station the ﬁrst Monday of every month. The defendants will return for trial on February 20, 2025. Sergeant Vernon Pyfrom served as the prosecutor.

BY DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

MICHAEL Pintard, Member of Parliament for Marco City, hosted a Thanksgiving luncheon on Thursday for more than 200 senior citizens in his constituency.

“This is the ninth year, and we are really excited to spend time with the

gems in our community because our senior citizens are the persons who have laid the foundation for us,” he said.

The event took place at the Bahamas Union of Teachers Hall, where Mr Pintard greeted the seniors and served up a three-course meal.

“I want to say how much we appreciate you,” he said. “Far too often we do not

take time out to pay homage to the person who brought us to where we are today.”

Mr Pintard said the luncheon was expanded this year to reach more seniors.

The FNM Marco City Association offers several other initiatives for seniors, including transportation, food vouchers, and utility assistance.

Pastor Steve Dean, of Central Church of God, said:

“I saw old friends I have not seen in a long time; I think this is a good gesture by MP Pintard, and of course to see him serving speaks well of him because he is willing to serve the people.” Lonia Dean said: “I enjoyed myself, and it was great to be served by the Honourable Michael Pintard, who is doing an awesome job in the community.”

ATLANTIS PRESIDENT AUDREY OSWELL

Taking Flight

How birding ecotours can diversify The Bahamas’ tourism industry and foster conservation

THE Bahamas is perhaps best known for its shimmering aquamarine waters, powdery- sand beaches, and world-class beach resorts that can rival any in the world. Our tourism brand is synonymous with luxury beach vacations, vibrant Junkanoo festivals, and the natural warmth and exuberant hospitality of our people.

However, there are lucrative and growing opportunities to diversify the tourism sector and showcase another gem in our crown: ecotourism. This fast-growing tourism sector is fed by global travelers increasingly seeking authentic and environmentally conscious experiences. One promising avenue is birding ecotourism or birdwatching tourism, a burgeoning global industry that blends travel, adventure, and conservation.

The value of the global birding industry

Birding is a multibillion-dollar industry that attracts millions of enthusiasts worldwide. According to a 2019 study by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, birdwatchers in the United States alone contributed over $41 billion to the economy through trip-related expenditures and equipment purchases. Globally, regions like Costa Rica, Ecuador, and South Africa have transformed birding into a cornerstone of their ecotourism strategies, drawing visitors often willing to spend more in exchange for unique, tailored, sustainable experiences that deliver value.

Birders are not ordinary tourists. Statistically, they are well-educated, environmentally conscious, and eager to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Importantly, they often make repeat visits to track elusive or migratory species, creating a steady, year-round tourism flow. This makes birding an ideal fit for The Bahamas, especially for lesser-known islands where infrastructure might not cater to

By YOLANDA PAWAR

high-density tourism but can accommodate smaller groups of eco-conscious travelers more inclined to enjoy a “close-to-nature” travel experience. With our geographical positioning and diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, pine forests, and wetlands, The Bahamas is a sanctuary and stop-off transit point for both migratory and endemic bird species. Leveraging this natural wealth, particularly on Family Islands such as Eleuthera, could attract avid birdwatchers, boost local economies, and help to promote environmental stewardship, providing that eco-activities are responsibly managed to ensure minimal environmental impact and overall sustainability. Eleuthera’s daily international and domestic flight schedule also provides the accessibility and ease of travel needed to grow this industry. Another draw is that The Bahamas is home to several endemic and migratory bird species that could be a significant attraction for birders and enthusiasts. Among these is the Bahama Woodstar, a tiny hummingbird known for its vibrant, magically iridescent violet throat feathers with strokes of glittering green. Adding to the line-up is the beautiful

Bahama Swallow, an elegant, slender, strikingly blue-and-white bird whose prime nesting habitat is pine forests.

Eleuthera, with its unspoiled natural landscapes and rich vegetation, provides a natural habitat for rare soughtafter species such as the Kirtland’s Warbler and the occasional stray Summer Tanager, whose exotic and luminous crimson plumage has placed it on the bucket list of many.

During the migratory season, our islands come alive with bird visitors, adding to local populations and making The Bahamas a hotspot for novice and expert birders. By promoting these species and the unique ecosystems they inhabit, we can position ourselves as a premier birding destination in the Caribbean.

Learning from global leaders in birding tourism

Countries like Costa Rica and Ecuador have demonstrated how birding can transform rural economies. With its emphasis on conservation and biodiversity, Costa Rica has become a global leader in birding tourism, attracting visitors to its cloud forests and coastal wetlands. Similarly, Ecuador’s Yasuni National Park and Mindo Valley offer world-class birding experiences, contributing signiﬁcantly to the national economy.

Closer to home, Trinidad and Tobago’s Asa Wright Nature Centre has set a benchmark for birding tourism in the Caribbean. By offering guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and immersive experiences in its lush rainforests, the center has drawn birdwatchers worldwide while prioritising memorable experiences for guests.

We have the potential in The Bahamas to create our unique niche. With our pristine environments and varied bird species, we can offer a distinct birding experience, further enhanced by our cultural richness and the hospitality for which Bahamians are known. Spin-off ecotourism-based business opportunities can include diverse, immersive guided tours, the establishment of eco-lodges, and other sustainable accommodations like glamping sites and equipment rentals, to name a few.

The industry can provide opportunities for locals to be trained and certiﬁed in specialized tours that offer valuable insights into the islands’ birds, plants, and ecosystems. This can create new job and entrepreneurship opportunities while preserving local knowledge and tradition. Local artisans producing birdthemed artwork, crafts, and souvenirs can add cultural value to the birding experience while supporting the growth of The Bahamas’ Orange Economy.

Conservation and environmental stewardship

Birding ecotourism is

not just about economic gains but also a powerful tool for conservation. By showcasing the beauty and importance of The Bahamas’ ecosystems, birding can raise awareness about environmental stewardship. Visitors who witness first-hand the interplay between birds, plants, and other wildlife are more likely to support conservation efforts, both locally and globally.

Community involvement is also crucial, as residents can play an active role in protecting habitats, reducing invasive species, and monitoring bird populations. Education programs funded by birding tourism can teach younger generations about the importance of preserving natural habitats and our ecosystems, building legacy and succession.

New birdwatching and nature trails at CTI

In 2025, One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) will expand its ecotourism offerings with an exciting birdwatching experience at the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) campus in Rock Sound. In alignment with OEF’s commitment to environmental stewardship and in partnership with

the American Bird Conservancy and other local partners, “The Bird’s Eye View” project will establish new nature and birdwatching trails on campus and provide training experiences for students interested in becoming certiﬁed tour guides. This initiative will support local conservation efforts and OEF’s sustainable development plans for the campus. In collaboration with Antioch University, OEF will also embark on a project to propagate and plant Black Torch and White Sage, vital food sources and habitats for the Kirtland’s Warbler. Visitors will be able to enjoy guided and self-guided tours via The Bird’s Eye View trails and be exposed to the bountiful variety of birds, medical plants, and rich biodiversity found in our own backyard. Birding ecotourism offers The Bahamas an opportunity to diversify its tourism industry while fostering conservation and sustainable development. By tapping into the growing global demand for nature-based travel, our islands can attract a new segment of high-value tourists and create new avenues for economic growth and empowerment.

BAHAMA WOODSTAR

BAHAMA SWALLOW

SCARLET TANAGER

of One Eleuthera Foundation

YOLANDA PAWAR

FATHER and daughter birding in Central Park, New York.

Pools in schools or schools in pools?

Sink or swim - Ambitious initiative to solve 2nd highest cause of accidental death

SOME of us are just plain lucky. We know how to swim. We have seen first-hand the wonders of the ocean world, the grouper and grunts, the waving grasses, the fragile coral. We can jump in a pool and swim without fear. But in a country that is 90 percent water, we are the outliers. Ninety seven percent of the population cannot swim well enough to be certified by international standards and 90 percent of us cannot swim well enough to save our own lives if caught in high waves or strong current.

We are an island nation with a population of non-swimmers.

Drowning is the number two cause of accidental death in The Bahamas and the rate of drowning in this country is 17 times higher than it is in the United Kingdom, though to be fair, how many attempt to swim when the temps in the UK rarely reach warm? Still, those are the stats and they are frightening. So it is no wonder that when the government, and in particular, the Ministry of Education, announced a new program to introduce pools in schools, it was greeted with the warmest applause. From a public relations perspective, it was a smash hit with everything going for it. The idea was perfect. (And still is.) The optics were brilliant. Prime Minister Philip Davis and the Minister of Education Glenys Hanna Martin, smiling, heaving heavy shovels of dirt to create a massive hole in the ground against the backdrop of heavy equipment showing the project at Government High was real. Even better, this was a capital improvement project that wasn’t costing the Bahamian taxpayer a dime. It was being funded by the gaming houses community foundation. What’s not to love?

The concept of turning a nation of non-swimmers into a nation unafraid and eager to hit the water IS brilliant. And to be applauded in every way. The idea of starting with primary school students in government schools adds to the positives. Kudos to the Minister of Education and her team who have long supported the non-profit program Let’s Swim Bahamas that has been teaching swimming in government schools for 17 years, the last three of those with coaches

‘The idea of pools in schools is great, but ...it may just be better to take schools to pools than to build pools in the schools’

By Diane Phillips

from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force who also serve as positive male role models.

So with all those accolades, what could possibly be wrong? Maybe not wrong, but less effective and more costly than it needs to be. Is there a slightly better way to teach a nation’s youngsters how to swim, one that costs less, achieves more and is more sustainable?

Let’s look at it from a practical perspective. There are 24 government primary schools in New Providence. A teaching pool is shallow enough for coach and students to stand, 3.5 feet so you are looking at building two dozen shallow pools. Each pool requires maintenance and 24-hour

security to ensure that neighbourhood kids do not think of it as their latest dare and risk injury or worse. To use the pool year-round, you need to heat it, adding to the already strained power consumption and cost. You also need specially trained coaches. Safety standards require one coach per 3-4 children in lower grades. In upper primary grades, it’s one coach per five children. For a class of 30 in a single school, that means five or six coaches – that is just one school. Multiply that by 24 should all be teaching swimming simultaneously and you can see the demand, more than 100 coaches who would have to undergo about a month’s training and experience to gain the

A YOUNG boy swimming. Learning to swim saves lives and is especially needful in a country where the second leading cause of accidental death is drowning.

confidence needed.

You could do a juggling act and move the coaches around, of course, but then why have a pool in every school instead of busing the students to a pool built for teaching swimming?

Let’s Swim Bahamas, the non-profit run by Nancy and Andy Knowles who have dedicated their lives to teaching swimming, has trained nearly 6,000 youngsters using three pools with maximum effectiveness –Betty Kelly-Kenning Aquatic Centre, South Beach Pools and most recently University of The Bahamas. Each swim session takes one hour out of the school day, including the bus ride to and from the nearest pool. The routine is repeated four days a week for two weeks and by the end of Grade Six, the child who started in Grade One has had nearly 50 lessons. To be fully qualified for a Swim America certification, an individual must be able to

swim 300 metres without stopping or approximately the length of three football fields.

According to the Nancy and Andy who won the 2023 National Community Sports Award and are currently working with 13 schools and a team of 40 - all fully funded through private and corporate donations - the most critical component of any successful learn-to-swim initiative is program before design. The programme for teaching, all the plans, parts and labour and plans, the certified coaches, the maintenance, security, class scheduling, power supply, supervision, certification process should be in place. It’s not as exciting as digging that first hole, the Knowles know, and they stress that they are 100 percent supportive of what government wants to do. “This whole thing could be very positive,” says Andy, leading not only to carving a population of swimmers

for safety’s sake, but allowing more Bahamians to enjoy the beauty of the waters, be more protective of the marine environment, enjoy more activities including boating, fishing, snorkelling and diving and for some, take up competitive swimming. They applaud the programme at Queen’s College which won the BAISS Swimming Championship this year and note that one of the most significant steps in the learn to swim initiative would be to move swimming into the realm of a core sport. As it stands now, schools would have to fit any time for swimming in between the seasons of the five core sports – basketball, track and field, softball/ baseball, volleyball and soccer.

Like any great destination, there is more than one route to reach it. In this case, it may just be better to take schools to pools than to build pools in the schools.

BAHAMAS GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION

The Bahamas Girl Guides Association will hold it’s Annual Christmas Carol Service on Sunday, December 1, at 3pm in the Geoffrey Brown Auditorium.at Queen’s College, Village Road.

The girls will march from Lowe’s Pharmacy to Queen’s College and participate in the programme, A Guiding Light of Christmas: A Global Celebration.

Further, they will hear from the chair of the Western Hemisphere Region, Stephanie Argus, sing favorite carols and enjoy the activities of Christmas around the world.

• On Saturday, November, 23, the Bahamas Girl Guides Association under the continued leadership. of its Chief Commissioner, Leja Burrows, shared with parents, heads of supporting bodies, council members, leaders and girls the successes of the association during 2023/ 2024 period. The highlights were as follows:

1. The recognition by the Western Hemisphere Committee of a 34 percent increase in the registration of Sunﬂowers, Brownies Guides and Rangers across The Bahamas. With Grand Bahama District showing the greatest increase in members; Abaco the largest number of Ranger Guides and the Sunﬂower level recording the largest increase overall.

2. Progress in the implementation of the new ﬁve themed DREAM Programme where age appropriate activities are used in meetings to ensure that our girls and young women are keeping safe and healthy, growing and developing in leadership skills, enjoying and protecting the environment, becoming community and global ambassadors, and being creative and innovative.

3. The commitment of many leaders to obtaining the appropriate qualiﬁcations needed for the efﬁcient management of their units.

4. The generous support of Corporate Bahamas, businesses, former Guides, supporting bodies, parents and the general public toward the completion of our new headquarters.

5. The continued participation of Sunﬂowers, Brownies, Guides, Rangers, Leaders, Council Members, parents, friends, supporting bodies and the public in our Annual Cookie Month Fundraiser.

The challenge of raising funds for the ﬁnal stage of completing the new headquarters; funding for

ROYAL SOCIETY OF ST GEORGE

(Lend a Hand Bahamas), Judy Ansell (Past President, RSSG), Hilary Birch (Committee Member, RSSG), and Beryl King (Secretary, RSSG). Missing from the photo, Patricia Hughes (Committee Member, RSSG).

programmes at the unit level; and ﬁnding leaders for the Guide age group 10-14-yearolds will continue to remain objectives to be achieved. Persons interested in helping to ensure the continued success of the association can contact 322-4342 or email bggassociation@yahoo.com.

DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY INC

In recognition of the 16 Days of Activism to bring awareness to gender-based violence, the Nassau, Bahamas Alumnae Chapter (NBAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, recently hosted about 60 women at their annual self-defence and safety workshop, DefendHER at St Anne’s School.

For the next 16 days, NBAC will partner with several public and nonproﬁt agencies to empower women to defend themselves against violence and educate them on resources available to them and others who may be victims of abuse.

The initiative comes less than a week after the country was shocked by news reports that a 12-year-old girl, Adriel Moxey, was sexually assaulted and later murdered on her way home from school. On the day of the workshop, Vernencha Butler met the same fate

during a home invasion.

According to NBAC’s president, Krystal Culmer, by introducing hands-on training and collaborating with like-minded partners, we are building a stronger network of safety and support for Bahamian women. She said that DefendHER underscores the Sorority’s commitment to tackling violent crimes committed against women and children.

“DefendHER embodies our Sorority’s mission — empowering women, uplifting our community, and inspiring positive change,” Culmer said.

Representatives from the Bahamas Crisis Centre and the Royal Bahamas Police Force educated the attendees on the resources available to victims and potential victims of violence. Superintendent of Police, Leonardo Burrows outlined the steps of receiving a protection order, while the Center’s representative Phillipa Dean described the services available to women, men, and children escaping abuse.

The attendees also participated in a self-defence workshop, led by MMA ﬁghter, Ele Simmons and Marcus Moss, who demonstrated various defense techniques in the event of an altercation or potential assault.

Each participant received a safety kit, which included

Culmer.

a whistle and ﬂashlight. One attendee was randomly selected and won a Ring security camera, which was donated by ALIV.

“This is only the beginning,” Culmer said. NBAC plans to expand the workshop to include youth-focused programs to emphasize the importance of early education and intervention in combating gender-based violence.

“We will continue our work until laws are enacted to protect women and girls, and all violence, particularly those against women and children, is no longer tolerated.”

AUSTRALIAN PARLAMENT BANS SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UNDER-16S

MELBOURNE, Australia Associated Press

A SOCIAL media ban for children under 16 passed the Australian Parliament on Friday in a world-ﬁrst law. The law will make platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X and Instagram liable for ﬁnes of up to 50 million Australian dollars ($33m) for systemic failures to prevent children younger than 16 from holding accounts. The Senate passed the bill on Thursday 34 votes

to 19. The House of Representatives on Wednesday overwhelmingly approved the legislation by 102 votes to 13. The House on Friday endorsed opposition amendments made in the Senate, making the bill law. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the law supported parents concerned by online harms to their children.

“Platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority for them,” Albanese told reporters. The platforms have

one year to work out how they could implement the ban before penalties are enforced.

Meta Platforms, which owns Facebook and Instagram, said the legislation had been “rushed.”

Digital Industry Group Inc., an advocate for the platforms in Australia, said questions remain about the law’s impact on children, its technical foundations and scope.

“The social media ban legislation has been released and passed within a week and, as a result, no one can conﬁdently explain

how it will work in practice – the community and platforms are in the dark about what exactly is required of them,” DIGI managing director Sunita Bose said.

The amendments passed on Friday bolster privacy protections. Platforms would not be allowed to compel users to provide government-issued identity documents including passports or driver’s licenses, nor could they demand digital identiﬁcation through a government system.

Critics of the legislation fear that banning young children from social media

will impact the privacy of all users who must establish they are older than 16.

While the major parties support the ban, many child welfare and mental health advocates are concerned about unintended consequences.

Sen David Shoebridge, from the minority Greens party, said mental health experts agreed that the ban could dangerously isolate many children who used social media to ﬁnd support.

“This policy will hurt vulnerable young people the most, especially in regional communities and especially

the LGBTQI community, by cutting them off,” Shoebridge told the Senate. Exemptions will apply for health and education services including YouTube, Messenger Kids, WhatsApp, Kids Helpline and Google Classroom.

Opposition Sen. Maria Kovacic said the bill was not radical but necessary. “The core focus of this legislation is simple: It demands that social media companies take reasonable steps to identify and remove underage users from their platforms,” Kovacic told the Senate.

GUIDES from 76th Nassau Company receiving the prize for overall winners for cookie sales and Ranger Guides from 36th Nassau unit accompanied by leader Louise Barry at left and Father Toppin at right accepting the prize for top selling Rangers.

PICTURED is the presentation of a substantial cheque by the Royal Society of St George to Lend a Hand Bahamas in support of its educational programme. Pictured are, from left, Sally Jones (Treasurer, RSSG), Shelagh Pritchard

DEFENCE classes being held, top, by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc and, above, the Bahama chapter social action chair Junann Lewis and, right, president Krystal

EQUESTRIAN TEAM RETURNS HOME AFTER OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES

EQUESTRIAN Baha-

mas’ four-member team returned from the Grand Caraibe Suriname in Ponderosa Stables, Paramaribo, Suriname with some outstanding performances. While competing in February in Martinique, The Bahamas was invited to join the tour that existed for over 20 years in the southern Caribbean.

Since then, the EB have been active participants, competing in Guadeloupe in May before going to Suriname last week.

Representing Team Bahamas in Suriname were Ella Saidi, Emma Johnston, Alana Pyfrom and Hannah Knowles. The team was coached by Raishun Burch of Bermuda and assisted by local trainer Erika Adderley.

Being held in Suriname, the competition was held under Netherlands Equestrian Federation rules. The competition took place over two days, with day 1 featuring a 2-phase competition and day 2 the more familiar format of one round against the clock, with riders achieving clear rounds proceeding to the jump off.

Overall placings were based on an amalgamation of the two days’ results. Johnston, Pyfrom and Knowles rose in the Espoir division (0.85m) while Saidi

rode in the Elite division (1.05m). As in all Grand Caraibe competitions, this was a horse-borrowed competition with the riding clubs in Suriname lending their horses for the competition to the participants, including riders from Antigua, Bahamas, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, French Guyana, Guadeloupe, Jamaica, Martinique and Suriname.

“Our results were positive and coach Burch noted a strong improvement in each rider from one day to another as the competition proceeded,” said EB president Cathy Ramsingh-Pierre.

Saidi, riding Caesar, placed 5th in Sunday’s competition and finished 10th overall out of 22 in the Elite and Johnston, riding Ruffian, placed 7th in Sunday’s competition and finished 20th out of 42 overall in the Espoir.

Although Pyfrom and Knowles did not place in their division, both rode well in what was a very challenging environment.

“All athletes had a phenomenal learning experience, enjoyed themselves and were exemplary ambassadors for The Bahamas,” Ramsingh-Pierre said. EB hopes to compete in Martinique and Guadeloupe in the spring.

Membership forms can be also found on the website at http://www.bahamastriathlon.org/documents.

9 with Fidelity as its title sponsor.

spots for today. The action starts at 10am.

SOCCER

FROM PAGE 16

members who are able to attend can view and vote. Nominations are due by midnight on Monday, December 8. The nomination forms can be found on our website https://www. bahamastriathlon.org/ documents. The nominees will be sent out on Tuesday, December 9 to all BTA members via the WhatsApp group and posted on the website so you can decide on whom to vote at the AGM.

If nominees want to add a résumé or any informa tion about themselves to be sent out, you are more than welcome to. Please send nomination forms and information to secretary@ bahamastriathlon.org.

Membership fees can be paid directly to our account or can be paid with cheques or cash.

Payment along with the forms can be dropped off to Dorian Roach at Baha Mar (424- 8038) or Lori Roach (376-0062).

Meeting Agenda

The AGM agenda will also be sent out on Tuesday, December 9, along with some proposed constitutional changes to be voted on.

The tournament is scheduled to begin at 12:30pm at the Ocean Club Golf Course, Paradise Island. All interested players must register at: https://app. eventcaddy.com/events/ tee-off-for-hunger-2024/ register.

CHESS

GENERAL MEETING

THE Bahamas Chess Federation has announced that its Annual General Meeting will take place at 3pm on Sunday, December 1.

To vote at the AGM you must be a member of the BTA of the age of eighteen (18). This means that current membership must be paid to date (2024).

TEE-OFF FOR HUNGER

THE Bahamas Feeding Network is scheduled to host its 3rd annual Tee-off For Hunger on December

The venue details, agenda and meeting minutes will be provided in advance.

SOFTBALL NPPPSA ACTION THE New Providence Public Primary Schools Association kicked off its softball tournament on Monday at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

The girls’ teams played up to Tuesday for spots in the ﬁnal on Friday. The boys have secured their

BFA’S

YOUTH

LEAGUE THE Bahamas Football Association will continue its Youth Soccer League at the Roscow AL Davies Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

Friday U-10 boys division - 6:30 pm Renegades vs Western Warriors. 6:30 pm Tambearly vs Dynamos.

Saturday U-8 boys division - 4 pm Baha Juniors vs FUT/CAV. 4 pm IM Beara vs United FC.

Women’s Division - 6:30 pm - Cavalier FC vs Renegades. 6:30 pm United OPurple vs United White.

Sunday Men’s Division4:30pm - UB Mingoes vs WWR Gladiators. 4:45pm - Int. Nassau BLS vs Dynamos FC. 6:45pm - Cavalier FC vs Bh Juniors. 7pm - WWR Titans vs Renegades FC.

SHOWN , from left to right, are Cathy Ramsingh-Pierre, federation president, team members Hannah Knowles, Alana Pyfrom, Emma Johnston, Ella Saidi and assistant coach Erika Adderley.

ELLA Saidi and Caesar placed 5th in the Elite competition. EMMA Johnston and Rufﬁan placed 7th in the Espoir Division.

Love connects with Reed on two TDs as Packers use fast start to beat Dolphins 30-17

By STEVE MEGARGEE AP Sports Writer

GREEN BAY, Wis.

(AP) — Jordan Love threw two touchdown passes to Jayden Reed and the Green Bay Packers capitalised on a fast start to beat Miami 30-17 and snap the Dolphins’ three-game winning streak last night.

Green Bay (9-3) has won three straight and seven of its last eight.

Miami (5-7) continued its recent history of struggling in cold weather. The kickoff temperature at Lambeau Field was 27 degrees (-2.7 Celsius) with 10-mph winds, light ﬂurries and a wind chill of 18.

The Dolphins have lost their past 11 regular-season or postseason games in which the kickoff temperature has been below 40 degrees (4.4 Celsius).

Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa went 37 of 46 for 364 yards with two touchdowns, though he also was sacked ﬁve times.

Love and Reed connected on touchdown completions of 3 and 12 yards, Josh Jacobs scored from 1 yard out and Brandon McManus kicked two ﬁeld goals as Green Bay built a 27-3 lead.

Miami tried to rally.

Tagovailoa’s 14-yard pass to De’Von Achane – and a 2-point conversion pass to Jaylen Waddle – cut Green Bay’s lead to 27-11 with 2:43

The Dolphins’ most recent victory in a game with a kickoff temperature at 40 or lower was a 34-31 overtime triumph at Buffalo on December 24, 2016. Green Bay is playing three games in a 12-day stretch. The Packers beat the San Francisco 49ers 38-10 on Sunday and will visit the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions next Thursday night. Love was 21 of 28 for 274 yards.

left in third. After Miami stopped Jacobs for a 2-yard loss on third-and-1 to force a punt, the Dolphins drove again and had second-andgoal at the 1 early in the fourth quarter.

Then the Packers made a goal-line stand to thwart the comeback attempt.

After Rashan Gary stopped Achane on second down and Tagovailoa couldn’t connect with Jonnu Smith on third down, Quay Walker made a fourth-down sack with 9:33 remaining.

A 49-yard completion from Love to Jacobs then set up a McManus 33-yard ﬁeld goal with 5:02 left.

Miami completed the scoring on a deﬂected 14-yard touchdown pass from Tagovailoa to Tyreek Hill with 3:04 remaining.

Miami’s slow start enabled the Packers to take command.

After forcing a three-andout on the game’s opening possession, the Dolphins

gave Green Bay a ﬁrstand-goal opportunity when Malik Washington muffed a punt and Robert Rochell recovered the fumble at the 9. The turnover set up Love’s 3-yard touchdown pass to Reed on third-andgoal. Green Bay reached the end zone again on its next series as Jacobs’ touchdown capped a 12-play, 76-yard drive that lasted nearly seven minutes.

The Dolphins had ﬁrstand-goal at the 9 in the second quarter but settled for Jason Sanders’ 33-yard ﬁeld goal.

Green Bay then scored 10 points in the ﬁnal 96 seconds of the half to make it 24-3. On third-and-2 from the 12, Reed caught a pass around the line of scrimmage and capitalised on a downﬁeld block from Dontayvion Wicks to reach the end zone.

After Tagovailoa overthrew Achane on fourth-and-5 from Green Bay’s 38 with 22 seconds left, a couple of completions from Love to Tucker Kraft helped the Packers get into position for

McManus’ 46-yard ﬁeld goal as time expired.

Injuries

Packers

CB Corey Ballentine hurt his knee on the opening kickoff. Packers

DL Arron Mosby was evaluated for a concussion.

Dolphins DB Kader Kohou hurt his back while colliding with Packers WR Christian Watson on a pass incompletion.

Dolphins

CB Cam Smith injured his shoulder.

Up next - Dolphins: Host the New York Jets Dec. 8.

Packers: At Detroit next Thursday night.

Cowboys earn 27-20 Thanksgiving win over Giants

By SCHUYLER DIXON AP Pro Football Writer

ARLINGTON, Texas

(AP) — DeMarvion Over-

shown wasn’t sure he could run down the pass he tipped and turn it into an interception for a touchdown.

The Dallas linebacker pulled it off, and now the chase is on for the Cowboys to try to dig out of a deep hole in pursuit of a fourth consecutive playoff trip, this time without franchise quarterback Dak Prescott.

Overshown’s dynamic pick-6 from 23 yards put Dallas in front for good, Rico Dowdle ran for a score in his ﬁrst career 100-yard game and the Cowboys held on for a 27-20 Thanksgiving Day victory over the New York Giants.

Cooper Rush threw a TD pass, and Dowdle ﬁnished with 112 yards Thursday as the Cowboys (5-7) ended a six-game home losing streak going back to a wildcard playoff loss to Green Bay last season.

Dallas has consecutive victories coming off a ﬁvegame losing streak but still plenty of work ahead to get back in the postseason picture. Prescott tore a hamstring in Week 9 of what was already a reeling season.

“We just needed that one last week, kind of get the ball rolling, felt that victory feeling in the locker postgame last week,” Rush said of the wild 34-26 victory at Washington. “Everything’s kind of coming together, feeling good about it.”

Drew Lock, who started in place of the injured

Tommy DeVito a week after the benching and subsequent release of Daniel Jones, lost a fumble following Overshown’s pick-6 in a seventh consecutive loss for the Giants (2-10).

Lock ran for 57 yards and a touchdown that ended up being too late to avoid New York’s eighth consecutive loss to its NFC East rival as the Giants were eliminated from playoff contention.

“This is one of my ﬁrst times to be able to come in and play a full game with these guys and show them what I can do,” Lock said. “Minus the turnovers and a few things, it was up and down. Some good. Some bad.”

The Giants had their ﬁrst lead since Week 5 before Overshown put the Cowboys back in front after they had led for just 2 minutes, 15 seconds during their six-game skid at AT&T Stadium.

Leading 7-6, Lock tried to ﬂip a screen pass to Devin Singletary after the running back had been overpowered trying to block Overshown.

The second-year linebacker ended up between Lock and Singletary, tipped the pass into the air toward the end zone, used his speed to run it down and scored untouched.

“I was thinking, ‘Hey, this is a good time to have those afterburners going,’” said Overshown, who missed his rookie season with a knee injury.

“I was able to kick in some nitrous, and we were dancing in the end zone after that.”

Overshown also recovered Lock’s fumble on the opening possession of the second half to set up Rush’s 2-yard TD pass to Brandin Cooks.

He deposited that ball into one of the oversized Salvation Army red kettles made famous by Ezekiel Elliott nearly a decade ago and isn’t sure what

POOR

By DAVE HOGG Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — The Chicago Bears could have celebrated a huge comeback and an upset win yesterday. Instead, poor clock management on their ﬁnal drive ended their bid and extended their losing streak to six games after a 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions.

The Bears drove into position for a tying ﬁeld goal or winning touchdown, only to have a sack and questionable clock management end the game before they got a chance at either one. The confusion started after Caleb Williams hit Keenan Allen for a 12-yard completion to the Lions 13 in the ﬁnal minute.

That would have given the Bears plenty of time to try for the win before attempting the ﬁeld goal,

happened to it. The TD ball might go to his son.

“Before the game, I was telling myself that around this time last year, I was just waiting to show people my testimony,” Overshown said. “Just being out there on the ﬁeld healthy is all I can ask for.”

Rush — now 2-2 as the starter ﬁlling in for Prescott

but guard Tevin Jenkins was called for illegal hands to the face, moving the ball back to the 35.

On second down, the Bears called a draw play for Williams, hoping he could get the ﬁrst down and set up the ﬁeld goal. However, backup tackle Larry Borom didn’t move as Za’Darius Smith came in unblocked to sack Williams for a 6-yard loss.

“It got loud, and I don’t think Larry heard the count,” Williams said. “Once I saw Za’Darius coming free, I didn’t want to risk trying to throw the ball away in case he got a chance to get his hands on it. I took the sack and tried to get everybody lined up for the ﬁnal play.”

As Williams tried to get the play off, Bears coach Matt Eberﬂus didn’t call Chicago’s last timeout. He said he was conserving it to set up a ﬁeld-goal attempt.

this season, and 7-3 for his career — threw the scoring pass to Cooks the play after the quarterback’s apparent fumble into the end zone was overturned on review.

Cooks, who had a diving first-down catch in the final two minutes to clinch the victory, was playing for the first time since Dallas’ 20-15 victory over the Giants in

“The hope was we could re-rack the play, snap it with about 18 seconds left, throw it into ﬁeld-goal range and call the timeout,” he said.

The clock, though, ran beyond 18 seconds and beyond Eberﬂus’ other benchmarks.

“Once it gets under 12, we can’t throw a pass to the sideline, and once it gets under seven, you have to throw the ball to the end zone,” he said. “At that point, if you call a timeout, it is to throw it to the end zone.” When Williams realised no timeout was coming, he hurriedly changed the play call to a deep pass to Rome Odunze, but it fell incomplete just short of the end zone.

“I knew we didn’t have time for a ﬁeld goal, so I made an adjustment,” he said. “I just wanted to get Rome one-on-one and try to take a shot at six.”

Week 4. He ended up with an infected knee after getting an injection in New York the day after that Dallas win.

Dowdle had 46 yards rushing in the ﬁrst quarter after his longest carry of the season, a 22-yarder. The Dallas offence bogged down after two efﬁcient drives, but a suddenly opportunistic defense kept the Cowboys in front.

Lock had a 28-yard scramble to set up the ﬁrst New York touchdown and another 21-yarder before his 8-yard TD with 2:18 remaining. But he was sacked six times.

“I don’t like the results,” Giants coach Brian Daboll said. “Nobody likes the results. But again, I have conﬁdence in the people. Just got to do better.”

Injuries Giants: Standout DT Dexter Lawrence said he dislocated his elbow in the second half. ... DL D.J. Davidson injured a shoulder in the ﬁrst half.

Cowboys: Special teamer Juanyeh Thomas was carted off with a right knee injury in the ﬁrst half and didn’t return. ... CB Josh Butler also didn’t return after injuring a knee. ... Rookie LT Tyler Guyton said left in the ﬁrst half with ankle and knee injuries and was replaced by Chuma Edoga, who made his season debut. Guyton said he has a high ankle sprain.

Up next

Giants: New Orleans at home Dec. 8.

Cowboys: The minibreak plus a day before Cincinnati visits Dec. 9.

Williams didn’t secondguess his coach.

“We can call a timeout there or we cannot,” he said. “I’m not going to say I was surprised. My job is just to go out there and make plays. I let the coaches and everybody make that decision — it is their call. Maybe in the later years of my career, it will be my call.”

The ﬁnish ruined a spectacular second half by Williams, who went 15 for 24 for 222 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 29 yards. “We didn’t have any sustained possessions in the ﬁrst half, so we had to get positive drives in the second,” he said. “That was a big point for us at halftime and we got into a rhythm and stayed encouraged.” Williams could have helped the Bears to a memorable comeback win on Thanksgiving, but the Bears once again fell short.

NEW York Giants wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette (87) leaps over Dallas Cowboys’ Damone Clark (18) and Brevyn Spann-Ford (89) on a punt return during the ﬁrst half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

CHICAGO Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (15) can’t catch a pass as Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold (0) defends during the second half of an NFL football game yesterday. (AP Photo/ Carlos Osorio)

GREEN Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (8) breaks a tackle by Miami Dolphins linebacker Chop Robinson (44) during the second half of an NFL football game yesterday in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer)

Fears and Moore combine for 50 points as Oklahoma tops No. 24 Arizona in Battle 4 Atlantis

NASSAU, Bahamas

(AP) — Freshman Jeremiah Fears scored a season-high 26 points, Jalon Moore added 24 and Oklahoma held off No. 24 Arizona 82-77 yesterday in the semiﬁnals of the Battle 4 Atlantis.

Duke Miles made a higharching ﬂoater in the lane with 2:55 remaining for a 78-69 lead, but Oklahoma failed to make another ﬁeld goal the rest of the game.

Trailing 78-75 with under a minute left, Arizona had three chances at a basket, but Caleb Love and Jaden Bradley missed 3-pointers and KJ Lewis had a shot blocked. Fears

ﬁnally grabbed a defensive rebound before making two free throws for a four-point lead. Miles ﬁnished with 11 points and Luke Northweather scored 10 for Oklahoma (6-0).

Love scored 17 points on 7-of-18 shooting for Arizona (3-3). Bradley added 16 points.

Takeaways Oklahoma has not looked like a team picked 15th in the SEC preseason poll in this tournament. The Sooners were coming off a 79-77 win over Providence after their nine-point advantage with 44 seconds left nearly slipped away.

Key moment Oklahoma had four 3-pointers and a three-point play on six possessions midway through the second half for a 68-57 lead.

3 GONZAGA BOUNCES BACK FROM LOSS, SWAMPS NO. 14 INDIANA 89-73 BEHIND NEMBHARD DOUBLE-DOUBLE

NASSAU, Bahamas

(AP) — Khalif Battle led a balanced attack with 16 points, Ryan Nembhard had a double-double and No. 3 Gonzaga used a ﬁrsthalf blitz to beat No. 14

Indiana 89-73 in the consolation round of the Battle 4 Atlantis yesterday.

The Bulldogs led 33-31 with under eight minutes to go in the ﬁrst half when ﬁve players scored in a 16-0 run

KOCHERA SCORES 22, DAVIDSON DEFEATS PROVIDENCE 69-58

By The Associated Press

NASSAU, Bahamas (AP)

— Connor Kochera had 22 points in Davidson’s 69-58 victory against Providence last night at the Battle 4 Atlantis. Kochera added ﬁve rebounds for the Wildcats (5-1). Bobby Durkin scored 20 points while shooting 7 for 12, including 4 for 8 from beyond the arc. Reed Bailey shot 6 for 13 (1 for 3 from 3-point range) and 5 of 6 from the free-throw line to ﬁnish with 18 points,

award to his regular season honour, proved why he’s the best player in the league, scoring nine points to lift St Francis/Joseph to victory.

He fouled out with the Shockers up 14-11, but the Sparks made a dent into the lead on one of two free throws from Kadeem Ferguson with 5.2 seconds left.

Then with 0.2 to go, St Thomas More had one more chance to tie the score, but Daltrei Capnda missed both charity shots as St Francis/Joseph held on for the win and the championship crown.

“It was a lack of defence, but we still pulled it off,” said Shockers’ coach Como Ferguson.

“We knew they were going to give us something good. They have a good team, but they didn’t shoot the ball.” Ferguson was just glad that they didn’t lose another game to the Sparks, who handed them their only loss during the regular season. He noted that it was payback time when they faced them again.

CHUCKY HEPBURN SCORES 32, LOUISVILLE BEAT WEST VIRGINIA

NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Chucky Hepburn scored 17 in the second half and 10 in overtime to ﬁnish with a career-high 32 points as Louisville beat West Virginia 79-70 yesterday in the Battle 4 Atlantis semiﬁnals.

Hepburn converted a three-point play with 2:30 remaining in overtime that gave Tucker DeVries his ﬁfth foul. West Virginia turned it over and Kasean Pryor raced for a fast-break layup and a 72-67 lead.

West Virginia forced Louisville into a tough shot in the lane in the closing seconds and went the other way but Toby Okani’s pass to Sencire Harris went out of bounds with 33.7 left. Louisville went 5 of 6 at the line from there.

while adding 11 rebounds. The Friars (5-2) were led by Jayden Pierre, who recorded 14 points. Providence also got 13 points from Wesley Cardet Jr.. Bensley Joseph ﬁnished with eight points. Davidson took the lead with 19:32 to go in the ﬁrst half and did not relinquish it. The score was 38-18 at halftime, with Durkin racking up 12 points.

Davidson was outscored by Providence in the second half by nine points, with Kochera scoring a team-high 11 points in the ﬁnal half.

Jaxon Pyfrom was the Shockers’ next best scorer behind McSweeney with four. Tyler Culmer helped out with two and Ethan Johnson had one.

For the Sparks, Kadeem Ferguson had ﬁve and Granlin Edwards had four points.

Girls ﬁnal Giants 26, Shockers 16 in OT Sheri Bascom and Jlynn Bain both scored four points and Jordyn McKay added three as Xavier’s outscored St Francis/Joseph 13 in the extra minutes for the overtime win.

McKay ﬁnished with nine, Bain ended up with ﬁve and Bascom, D’Antia Rose and London Mortimer all contributed four.

Raygail Smith, the head coach of Xavier’s, said she knew they had the ability to come back and avoid being swept by the Shockers.

“The girls were hungry. We knew we beat ourselves at the free throw (line) the last game,” Smith said. “So we had to come back and show that we are the better team.

“We are six or seven deep. They knew they played awful in game one and they came back tonight.”

Miles, Moore and Glenn Taylor Jr. each made a 3-pointer, and Moore completed a three-point play on the team’s next trip down the ﬂoor for a 65-55 lead with 8:55 left.

Key stats Fears showed his youth against Providence, turning it over eight times in the narrow win. But he responded with ﬁve assists and just three turnovers in 33 minutes against the Wildcats. Up next - Oklahoma will play Louisville today in the championship game. Arizona will face West Virginia in the third-place game.

in less than 4 1/2 minutes and the Hoosiers never got closer than 15 points the rest of the way.

Nembhard had 11 points and a career-high 13 assists for the Bulldogs (6-1).

Michael Ajayi and Nolan Hickman added 15 points and Ben Gregg 13.

Ajayi had nine rebounds as Gonzaga outrebounded Indiana 42-27.

Omar Ballo had 25 points for Indiana (4-2), which lost its second straight. Mackenzie Mgbako scored 13.

Takeaways Gonzaga was locked in for its second blowout win

over a top-15 opponent and rebounded from a loss to West Virginia. Indiana struggled to get its offence going.

Key moment Indiana was within two when Bello scored inside at the 8:11 mark of the ﬁrst half, giving him 17 points on

nine seconds left

only come up with three

McKenzie

and

Hepburn was 8 of 12 from the ﬁeld and 14 of 17 at the free-throw line. He was coming off a 10-assist, sevensteal performance — both career-highs — in a win over No. 14 Indiana yesterday.

Javon Small scored 26 points for West Virginia and Amani Hansberry added 19. Small played for over 40 minutes for a second straight game after he scored 31 in an 86-78 overtime victory over No. 3 Gonzaga on Wednesday. At the end of regulation, Hepburn made 1 of 2 free throws with 31.9 seconds left to tie it at 61-all. Small dribbled down the clock and drew three defenders at the 3-point line before passing it to Hansberry, but the shot-clock buzzer sounded. Louisville’s long inbounds pass with 1.8 left was batted away.

7-of-7 shooting against his ﬁrst college team. His next basket came at 2:58 and cut Gonzaga’s lead to 49-33. The Hoosiers missed eight shots with three turnovers between baskets.

Key stats Gonzaga led 57-39 at half with a 17-3 advantage in second-chance points. ... Bello was 11-of-13 shooting, his teammates were 16 of 46. ... Gonzaga had six players in double ﬁgures before Indiana got its second with 1:20 left in the game.

Up next Gonzaga will play Davidson for ﬁfth place, and Indiana plays Providence for seventh today.

which was the difference in the game. “We’re going to come with the same game plan, but we’re going to stay out of foul trouble,” he said.

“The game plan was on. We just got into foul trouble.” Smith, however, warned Ferguson that although they anticipate it will be a tough game, they are looking forward to pulling it off. Boys third place Giants 20, Strikers 17

Carren Matthews led the attack for Xavier’s boys with a game high 11 points, including 11 in the second quarter and Kyle Rolle chipped in with eight.

For St Cecilia’s, Jaiden Armbrister had eight and Herbie Fernander helped out with ﬁve, but it wasn’t enough.

Girls third place

Strikers 9, Sparks 4

Trailing 3-0 at the half, Theanna Kemp came through with all of her 5 points in the 3rd and Gabrielle Sands got her 4 in the fourth to seal the deal for St Cecilia’s as they evened the series to 1-1. Paris Johnson scored three points - all in the second quarter - and Rikaia Simmons added a free throw in the fourth for St Thomas More.

With

in regulation, Grace Smith broke away from a double team and scored a lay-up to tie the score 13-13. St Francis/Joseph, however, could

points in the extra period. Smith ﬁnished with nine points, J’Kia Moxey had three and both Jolea McMinns and Jumeah

had a pair of points respectively. Como Ferguson, coach of the Shockers, said they got into trouble

one of their key players fouled out,

ST Thomas More Sparks - boys’ runners-up.

GONZAGA’s Khalif Battle reacts during an NCAA college basketball game against Indiana, yesterday, on Paradise Island, Bahamas. (Tim Aylen/Bahamas Visual Services via AP)

OKLAHOMA’s Jalon Moore (14) heads to the basket against Arizona during an NCAA college basketball game Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024, in Paradise Island, Bahamas. (Tim Aylen/Bahamas Visual Services via AP)

OKLAHOMA’s Jeremiah Fears (0) heads to the basket against Arizona during an NCAA college basketball game Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024, in Paradise Island, Bahamas. (Tim Aylen/Bahamas Visual Services via AP)

GOVERNMENT HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR GIRLS

Athletes of the Month

Xavion Johnson, GHS senior girls’ volleyball team

BAHAMIAN judoka

Xavion Johnson and the Government High School (GHS) Magic senior girls’ volleyball team emerged as November’s Tribune Athletes of the Month.

The Tribune Sports section will recognise the efforts of athletes across all sporting disciplines and award a top male and female candidate at the end of each respective month, culminating with the athlete of the year distinction.

Male Winner -

Xavion Johnson

Bahamian judoka Xavion Johnson is on a mission to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and he got one step closer over a week ago at the Montreal Panamerican Open 2024 in Montreal, Canada.

He doubled up on the bronze medals in the junior and senior

divisions (66 kilogram) at the competition.

In the junior division, he advanced to the semis after defeating Chile’s Fabricio Meyer in the quarterﬁnal. He came up short in his following matchup against the USA’s Jacob Yang in the semiﬁnals. Johnson then took the bronze-medal victory against the USA’s Lenny Sheynfeld via ippon in the third place matchup. In the senior division, the decorated judoka got the best of Canadian Daniel McCristall to advance to the semis. While competing in the semis, he came up short against Canadian judoka Daniil Kremerman. Johnson went on to wrap up the competition with a bronze medal placement with his victory against Canada’s Adrian Shimabukuro.

St

“But it’s a testament of SAC and its culture and what we try to cultivate on campus on a daily basis.

It’s a wonderful job by the coaching staff, the students and the administration and students to bring this thing to light.”

As for his award, Edwards said when he saw the list of nominees, he expected it to go either way, but he was just delighted

ATHLETES

STAY TUNED FOR THE OFFICIAL SELECTION OF JUNIOR AND SENIOR ATHLETES OF THE YEAR NEXT MONTH

Female WinnerGHS Magic

The GHS senior girls’ volleyball team set out a goal to win the GSSSA volleyball crown and they pulled it off in emphatic fashion to end the season.

The team began the GSSSA do-or-die playoffs by eliminating the defending champion CV Bethel Stingrays in straight sets 19-13, 19-10. They met a great challenge in the CI Gibson Lady Rattlers in the best-of-three championship round, but dug deep to wrap up the series 2-1.

The newly-crowned champions were met with

that he prevailed in the end.

“We have a lot of brilliant minds in the country, but it’s extremely pleasing and humbling too, to receive that award,” Edwards said.

“Last year was a difﬁcult year, but I put in a lot of work and I don’t think people know the late nights of planning, organising and getting the kids to meet you halfway mentally.

“I felt good to see how things came to light. So I’m just grateful and honoured to receive this year,” he stated.

And in reﬂecting on Scott, Edwards said she’s a very unique athlete who can play softball and basketball at the elite level and throw the javelin at the elite level, so she’s a triple threat,” he pointed out. But her main focus for the past two years has been

on the javelin and she has excelled, not just nationally but regionally and at one point was ranked sixth in the world in her category. So she’s a phenomenal athlete and a great student, who has maintained a 3.5 GPA average.”

Edwards said they salute Scott and wish her every success as she moves on to the University of Nebraska in August to further her athletic career.

This past school year, the Big Red Machine captured another Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools’ track and ﬁeld championship title and the Ministry of Sports/ Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ National High School Track and Field Championships. Additionally, SAC pulled off the victory in the BAISS

junior boys’ softball and volleyball championships and ﬁnished as runnersup in the junior girls and senior girls volleyball championship.

And at the national level, the Big Red Machine placed 18 members on the CARIFTA track and ﬁeld team that participated in St George’s, Grenada, over the Easter holiday weekend.

Scott was the highlight of their participation, winning the under-17 girls’ javelin with a CARIFTA recordbreaking performance.

Scott just this week signed her letter-of-intent for the University of Nebraska, along with her Blue Chip Athletics’ teammate Taysha Stubbs and Annae Mackey, who will be heading to the University of Louisiana.

adversity in game one and fell to the Rattlers 25-20, 25-21 in two highly competitive matchups. However, they made the necessary adjustments and bounced back to tie the series after winning game two 25-20, 25-21. With the title hanging in the balance, the Magic put the Lady Rattlers away once and for all in game three. The Rattlers pushed them to the brink to win set one 25-21 but the Magic clinched the ﬁnal two sets 25-15, 16-14.

cial selection of junior and senior athletes of the year next month.

Woodside-Johnson, who along with her twin sister Diane Woodside-Johnson now sits in administration after serving as former athletes and teachers at SAC, said the accomplishments are just another feather in the cap for the Big Red Machine’s athletic programme. “It’s another accomplishment for St Augustine’s College heading into our 80th anniversary celebrations in January 2025,” she said.

“It’s kind of like a lunch to say SAC is still number one, SAC still produces the best athletes and coaches and of course is considered the best private school.

“So we’re excited to have received those awards and we’re hoping that the journey will continue with more victories and more awards in the future.”

With SAC getting ready to celebrate its 80th anniversary, Woodside-Johnson said their aim is to capture another BAISS track and ﬁeld title and celebrate with not only their students, but their alumnis.

“We have next year to bring our alumnis back to SAC during our 80th anniversary in addition to having SAC-A-Rama and our Homecoming weekend, February 27-28 and March 1-2,” she announced.

“And of course, we are commemorating those celebrations with a ball sometime in May. So St Augustine’s College is on the move. We’re moving into levels beyond levels that people can think of and hopefully we can bring our alumnis to be a part of, not only what we have accomplished, but for next year.”

ATHLETE Dior-Rae Scott with her award. VICE principal Dawn Woodside-Johnson, Dior-Rae Scott and Jason Edwards. COACH Jason Edwards with his award.

The impact of climate on athletic performance in The Bahamas: Adapting to our unique environment

By Dr Kent L Bazard

AS the temperatures drop slightly during what is considered “winter” in The Bahamas, athletes face a unique set of environmental challenges that can impact performance.

Although “winter” here is nothing like the cold, harsh conditions of northern climates, the cooler temperatures, morning dew, and the onset of cold and ﬂu season introduce new dynamics to athletic training and competition.

Weather Conditions and Athletic Performance

can help athletes maintain stability on wet, dew-covered surfaces.

Hydration: Despite cooler temperatures, maintaining proper hydration remains critical. The humidity in the Bahamas can still lead to signiﬁcant ﬂuid loss, even when it’s cooler.

Cold and Flu Prevention for Athletes

The Bahamian winter, with temperatures averaging between 70°F and 80°F, may not seem extreme, but even this slight drop can affect how athletes perform. Cooler mornings bring with them increased dew on the grass and track surfaces, raising the risk of slips, falls, and injuries, particularly in ﬁeld sports like soccer, rugby, and track and ﬁeld.

Wet surfaces slow athletes down and can make sudden changes in direction more difﬁcult, impacting sports that require quick multidirectional movements.

Moreover, the sudden onset of cold and ﬂu season can leave athletes more vulnerable to respiratory issues, particularly those training in the early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are at their coolest.

The interplay between physical exertion and immune function is critical, as heavy training loads can weaken the immune system, leaving athletes more susceptible to illness.

Adapting Training for the Bahamian Winter Athletes and coaches must adapt their training regimens to account for these seasonal changes.

Key strategies include:

Warm-Up Adjustments:

Longer warm-up sessions are essential to combat cooler temperatures, reducing the risk of muscle strains and increasing blood ﬂow to essential muscle groups.

Footwear Considerations: Cleats and running shoes with better traction

BUDDY

FROM PAGE 16

makes at the charity stripe. He crossed up an OKC defender to create slight separation before canning the historic three in the right corner at the 2:46 mark of the opening period.

It was his ﬁrst of ﬁve threes on the night and placed the Warriors within eight (2921) on the scoreboard.

The three-point specialist now has a total of 1,987 made three pointers in his NBA career since being drafted as the sixth overall pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2016.

He needs just one three to tie things with former Dallas Mavericks point guard Jason Kidd at 1,988 and needs just 13 more threes to hit 2,000 career makes from deep.

Hield has remained a steady option for the Warriors off the bench this season, averaging 15.6 ppg, 3.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists while shooting 46.5 per cent from the ﬁeld and 44.1 per cent on threes.

As for the Warriors, the team fell to the third spot in the Western Conference with a 12-6 win/loss record. Meanwhile, the Thunder, playing without the services of Chet Holmgren, remain atop the West with a 14-4 record.

Golden State fought tooth and nail to the end against the Thunder while playing without All-Star point guard Stephen Curry, but were unable to withstand a game-high 35 points from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the loss.

The Thunder quickly took advantage of the ball game against the

Given the overlap between athletic performance and immune health, preventing the spread of illness is essential. Teams should emphasize: Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing and sanitizing can prevent the spread of germs.

Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in immune-boosting foods - such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins - can enhance resilience against illness.

Adequate Rest: Rest days are crucial to allow the body to recover and maintain a strong immune system, especially during periods of high-intensity training.

Long-Term Adaptation

While some may view the Bahamian winter as mild, it serves as a critical period for athletes to ﬁne-tune their resilience to environmental factors.

By preparing for dewslicked ﬁelds, adapting their hydration strategies, and fortifying their immune systems, Bahamian athletes can optimize their performance not just locally but on a global stage.

By learning to manage these unique climate challenges, athletes in the Bahamas can take advantage of year-round training opportunities, strengthening both their physical and mental resilience.

In the end, understanding and adapting to the environment is key to maintaining peak performance, no matter the season.

sports medicine physician at Empire Sports Medicine, specializes in ensuring athletes reach their peak performance safely. With extensive experience and a passion for sports health, Dr. Bazard provides insights and guidance for athletes of all ages.

undermanned Warriors with a double digit 24-12 lead at the midway mark of the ﬁrst period.

“Buddy” helped to weather the Thunder with a timely step back three to shift the score to 29-21 at the 2:46 mark of the ﬁrst. Nonetheless, the Warriors were in a 16-point hole (39-23) going into the second quarter of play.

The Thunder continued to steamroll the Warriors in the following period, extending the deﬁcit by as much as 19 points in the beginning minutes of the second period.

A three by Hield off an assist from Pat Spencer jump-started a 10-0 Golden State run to trim the gap down to 8 (41-33).

Despite outscoring OKC 27-23 in the second period, the Warriors were still behind 62-50 at halftime.

The Warriors put their ﬁrst-half woes behind them to mount a rally in the third period.

Brandin Podziemski connected on a three at the 6:09 juncture to put the Warriors within 4 (74-70).

OKC’s Isaiah Joe and GSW’s Hield exchanged threes on back-to-back possessions late in the third but the Warriors were still ﬁghting from behind 84-81. It was a see-saw affair down the stretch in the fourth.

In the game’s ﬁnal moments, Hield committed a foul on Gilgeous-Alexander, who proceeded to cash in on two makes at the free throw line.

BAZARD

DR KENT

Shockers win title

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

The St Francis/ Joseph Shockers and the Xavier’s Giants celebrated as the Catholic Diosecan Primary School boys champions and thirdplace ﬁnishers yesterday at Loyola Hall.

But both the girls’ championship and consolation third-place games will go to third and deciding games in their best-of-three series today at 4pm.

The Shockers nipped the St Thomas More Sparks 14-12 to capture the boys’

title, while the Giants held off the Strikers 20-17 for their sweep of the boys’ third place in both games that went right down to the wire.

Xavier’s needed overtime for a 26-16 win over St Francis/Joseph to even their girls’ championship at 1-1 and St Cecilia’s knocked off St Thomas More 9-4 to tie their third place series at 1-1.

Boys ﬁnal Shockers 14, Sparks 12 John McSweeney, who added the championship most valuable player

SEE PAGE 13

November SAC wins ‘best high school’ award

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Triathlon Association has announced that its annual general meeting and election of ofﬁcers is scheduled to be held at 7pm on Thursday, December 12, at The Bahamas Olympic Association headquarters on Solider Road.

ONE year shy of its 80th anniversary, the Big Red Machine carted off several awards from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s National Awards Ceremony to add to its impressive collection st St Augustine’s College.

At the recent event held in the ballroom at

Baha Mar resort, the Big Red Machine added to their collection on SAC’s campus off Bernard Road and Prince Charles Drive, the best high school award, high school coach award presented to Jason Edwards and the most outstanding female high school student, awarded to versatile Dior-Rae Scott.

In celebrating the accomplishment, Edwards, the Athletic Director

at SAC, said they are extremely humbled in receiving the award that the athletes all shared in achieving.

“The coaches have worked extremely hard and so it’s good to see the fruits of their labour and to see that we are acknowledged and recognised nation-wide for the accomplishments,” Edwards said.

CHAMPIONS: St Francis/Joseph Shockers boys’ champions.

XAVIER’s Giants boys - third place ﬁnishers.

11292024 NEWS AND SPORT

DID DRUG CONSPIRACY SWAY MURDER PROBE?

Man initially held in Giovani killing also named in US case

NYGARD DENIED EXTRADITION APPEAL BY CA N ADIA N COURT

Atlantis gives thanks to staff

Did drug conspiracy sway murder probe?

Nygard denied extradition appeal by Canadian court

Pintard calls for new House Speaker

‘able

to be fair to the rest of us’

Sands criticises lack of security at Parliament

‘Arrests may harm police partnerships’

ORG calls for deliberate action on corruption

US Embassy: We are committed to work with Bahamas to combat corruption

The Tribune Limited

More questions over those arrested

MOW, stop ignoring big pothole

Action is proof of integrity

Atlantis chief expects strong ﬁrst quarter in new year

Pintard hosts Thanksgiving dinner for over 200 senior citizens

Taking Flight

How birding ecotours can diversify The Bahamas’ tourism industry and foster conservation

By YOLANDA PAWAR

Pools in schools or schools in pools?

Sink or swim - Ambitious initiative to solve 2nd highest cause of accidental death

BAHAMAS GIRL GUIDES ASSOCIATION

ROYAL SOCIETY OF ST GEORGE

DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY INC

AUSTRALIAN PARLAMENT BANS SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UNDER-16S

EQUESTRIAN TEAM RETURNS HOME AFTER OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES

TEE-OFF FOR HUNGER

Love connects with Reed on two TDs as Packers use fast start to beat Dolphins 30-17

Cowboys earn 27-20 Thanksgiving win over Giants

POOR

Fears and Moore combine for 50 points as Oklahoma tops No. 24 Arizona in Battle 4 Atlantis

KOCHERA SCORES 22, DAVIDSON DEFEATS PROVIDENCE 69-58

CHUCKY HEPBURN SCORES 32, LOUISVILLE BEAT WEST VIRGINIA

GOVERNMENT HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR GIRLS

Athletes of the Month

Xavion Johnson, GHS senior girls’ volleyball team

St

ATHLETES

The impact of climate on athletic performance in The Bahamas: Adapting to our unique environment

Weather Conditions and Athletic Performance

BUDDY

Shockers win title

November SAC wins ‘best high school’ award