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Minnis: it’s tiMe for a full inquiry
Former PM rules out public tit-for-tat with Police Commissioner
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS
Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
FORMER Prime Min-
ister Dr Hubert Minnis said he wouldn’t engage in a public “tit-for-tat” with Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander, who linked corruption in the police force to the Minnis administration’s decision to sideline
several senior police officers, including himself. “I am looking for futuristic permanent solutions,” Dr Minnis said when asked if he would address Commissioner Fernander’s claim, which was made during a national address on Sunday night. The comments comes
MoM wept as officer charged in shooting death of her son
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A POLICE officer was charged with manslaughter yesterday for killing a 15-year-old boy in 2017, prompting the boy’s mother to break down in tears.
Acting Coroner Kara Turnquest transferred Police Constable Dennis Sturrup’s case to the Supreme Court for trial. The officer is accused of fatally shooting Gino Evante Finley Jr during an alleged armed robbery at Seagrapes Shopping Centre on May 23, 2017. Evidence presented during the inquest indicated that the teenager, who was
Missing young man feared dead after kayak capsises at sea in the Exumas
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
A YOUNG man in Exuma is missing and feared death after his kayak capsised in rough seas on
Sunday.
Hailand Rolle travelled with two others on Sunday. The other men swam to Duck Cay, where they were rescued by police shortly after midnight on Monday. Police said all three
men, all Exuma residents, left Ramsey Beach on a yellow kayak around 2pm on Sunday, heading toward Duck Cay. When they failed to return or make contact,
Pinder warns international court The Bahamas will ‘cease to exist’
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
ATTORNEY General Ryan Pinder delivered an oral argument to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) yesterday, highlighting climate change’s existential threat to small island nations like The Bahamas.
By RASHAD ROLLE
THE Court of Appeal has denied a murder suspect’s request to remove the electronic monitoring device from his bail conditions, rejecting his claim that it negatively affects his business operations and causes him financial hardship.
Lavardo Huyler has been on bail since 2019, pending trial for the alleged murder of his wife. In a decision delivered by Justice Evans, the Court of Appeal found that the monitoring device
The ICJ has begun hearings on the legal obligations of states concerning climate change, marking a potentially significant moment for global climate accountability. This initiative, led by small island developing states (SIDS) such as The Bahamas, seeks to clarify states’ responsibilities in court denies request of M an accused of killing wife
Deputy Police Commissioner Leamond Deleveaux receives the King’s Police Medal from Governor General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt during the King’s Birthday Honours at Government House yesterday. See PAGE TWO for more.
Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
New Year’s and King’s Birthday Honorees recognised
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
NEW Year’s and King’s Birthday honorees for 2023-2024 were recognised at Government House yesterday.
Among the honorees acknowledged was former Central Grand Bahama MP Neko Grant, who received Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Ministry of Health and Wellness Permanent Secretary Colin Higgs was bestowed the Member of the Order of the British Empire.
Deputy Commissioner Leamond Deleveaux and retired Deputy Commissioner Emrick Keven Seymour received the King’s police medal for 2023.
Retired Assistant Commissioners Bernard “BK” Bonamy and Theophilus Cunningham received the 2024 New Year Honours medals.
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis congratulated the honorees and said the achievements are a testament to the country.
“As I look around, I’m reminded just how blessed we are as a nation,” he said.
“To be such a small country with so many giant achievements, we are truly blessed, and we are sharing our blessings with others.”
“The world sees our excellence. We are honoured and celebrated because of the contributions of our best and brightest, the nation builders and giants who have left their mark on our nation and on our world.”
“In our midst this morning, there are national legends, trailblazers and change makers who have worked tirelessly over the years to realise noble and lofty ambitions across a myriad of industries. Today, we honour their commitment and character, as well as the depth and breadth of their impressive achievements.”
Honorees, Governor General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investment and Aviation Chester Cooper, Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Michael Darville and other officials pose for a group photo during the King’s Birthday Honours at Government House yesterday. Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Mom wept as officer charged in shooting death of her son
wearing a school uniform, was shot in the back of his head. Although PC Sturrup and PC Denzil Deveaux were named during last year’s inquest, only Sturrup was charged. Yesterday, he was served with and signed a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). He was informed of his notice of alibi and that his arraignment was scheduled before Senior Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson on
December 13. Before this development, K Melvin Munroe, PC Sturrup’s attorney, told the court that his client had originally been directed to return on February 12, 2025. Munroe noted he was notified of the summons at the last minute but had worked diligently to ensure his client’s timely appearance. During the proceedings, Lynette “Tasha” Brown, Finley Jr’s mother, wept as the officer was officially charged with her
son’s death. Speaking outside court, she expressed gratitude to God and the coroner, voicing relief after nearly seven years of waiting.
“Seven years,” she said. “Seven long years. I’m happy for the finding, of course. It’s about time. Y’know, cause he did a criminal act.”
The court also addressed the cases of Valentino Johnson and Shanton Forbes. Their families were told that a decision on whether the matters would
Missing young man feared dead after kayak capsises at sea in the Exumas
police were alerted.
The two men told police that their kayak had capsized during the trip, and they both swam to the cay. Yesterday, there were unconfirmed reports that a boater may had found part of a body near Tim’s Bay, but Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings was unable to verify this information up to press time.
“My grandnephew went on a kayak,” said Kenneth Nixon, referring to Hailand. “It was three of them, and they usually do
this, but not on a day like this with high winds and ground swells.”
He said the men were about three-quarters of a mile from the mainland.
“They usually go across there to fish and collect welks,” he said. “There is a cay right in front of Ramsey. They left from Ramsey Beach and went on a kayak.”
Mr Nixon said a large wave struck the kayak, causing it to overturn.
“The kayak turned over, and they all went under the water,” he said. He said when they came up, they were unable to
THe naTional Honour of the Order of Excellence was conferred upon Secretary of the Commonwealth of Nations, Baroness Patricia Scotland by Governor General Dame Cynthia ‘Mother’ Pratt, in ceremonies at Government House on Sunday. Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Philip ‘Brave’ Davis gave remarks, and Baroness Scotland gave response. Also present, to introduce the Prime Minister and give remarks, was Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell. In attendance: Former Prime Minister Perry Christie; Chief Justice Sir Ian Winder; and Deputy Opposition Leader Shanendon Cartwright. Photos:Patrick Hanna/BIS
advance to the Supreme Court would be announced on December 9. None of the officers involved in those cases appeared in court yesterday. In Johnson’s case, Constable 4185 Ferguson and former officer 4427 Shando King were involved in the 2023 fatal shooting of the 42-year-old on Seven Hills Road. Forbes’ death involved Police Constable 3731 Greenslade and Constable 3725 Young, who were linked to the 2019 killing of the 21-year-old in
Yellow Elder Gardens. Former officer Shando King is reportedly at large after absconding while awaiting trial for unrelated attempted murder charges.
The Coroner’s Court also noted that five officers’ cases, previously pending review, were officially closed last month and will not proceed to trial. These include cases involving the deaths of Harold Brown and Richard Brown, Deangelo Evans, and Elroy Stubbs and Ernest Forest.
Last month, three officers
were informed they would stand trial for manslaughter in connection with the 2021 fatal shooting of 31-yearold Azario Major. While adverse findings against police officers were once rare, they have become more frequent since inquests resumed following the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this trend, justifiable killings still dominate. Over the past year, there were 14 rulings of justifiable killings compared to seven findings of manslaughter.
Court denies request of man accused of killing wife
from page one
mitigating climate change and addressing its devastating impacts on vulnerable countries.
Mr Pinder cited the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which caused $3 billion in damages — 25 percent of the country’s GDP — and resulted in the displacement of thousands and significant loss of life.
During his address, he described the destruction caused by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, emphasising the catastrophic impact on The Bahamas.
“This is the reality we face — a reality that we did not create but are forced to endure because of the inaction of major polluters,” he said, calling on industrialised nations to take responsibility for their role in the climate crisis.
Mr Pinder underscored the human cost of the climate crisis, while detailing
retrieve the kayak.
“They swam to the cay because they lost the kayak,” he said. “It cannot sink; it stays afloat. But because they fell into the water, it was blown away by the high winds.”
Gary Rolle, Hailand’s granduncle, said this latest incident is another tragedy for the Rolle family.
“I just buried his daddy about four years ago,” he said, adding that Hailand was probably about 14 or 15 years old when his father, Donald Rolle Jr, was crushed under a car in the yard.
how the 20-foot storm surge from Dorian ravaged the islands, causing over $3 billion in damages, displacing nearly 10,000 people, and destroying thousands of homes.
His argument highlighted the urgent and disproportionate burden faced by The Bahamas, where over 80 percent of its land lies less than 1.5 meters above sea level, making it exceptionally vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
“If we continue on our current path, my country will cease to exist,” Mr Pinder warned, as he called on industrialised nations to take accountability for their historical and ongoing contributions to climate change.
“Who then will take my people when their country does not exist anymore? We are not just speaking about numbers or projections. We are speaking about lives, cultures, and
histories at risk of being erased completely.”
His address highlighted key legal principles, including the concept of common but differentiated responsibilities, arguing that major greenhouse gas emitters must reduce emissions and provide reparations for the damage inflicted on vulnerable states.
Mr Pinder advocated for decisive legal action, emphasising that international law obligates states to prevent environmental harm beyond their borders. He urged the ICJ to issue an advisory opinion that reaffirms these principles and establishes a clear framework for accountability and reparations.
“We are not just speaking about numbers or projections,” Mr Pinder concluded.
“We are speaking about lives, cultures, and histories at risk of being erased completely.”
Hailand Rolle
Minnis: It’s time for a full inquiry
after a US Southern District of New York indictment implicated 11 Bahamians, including Chief Superintendent Elvis Curtis and Defence Force Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker, in aiding drug traffickers to smuggle large quantities of cocaine through The Bahamas into the United States.
During his national address, Commissioner Fernander said he had a conversation with former Commissioner Paul Rolle and plans to engage with former Commissioner Anthony Ferguson, Dr Minnis, and former Minister of National Security Marvin Dames.
Dr Minnis suggested he would discuss the matter with the commissioner only if a Commission of Inquiry is established.
“I am telling the commissioner in advance what he needs to do: push for a Commission of Inquiry, let’s look at this holistically,” he said.
“We are not cherry picking; we want to improve The Bahamas. We want a better The Bahamas. We do not want to cherrypick and, basically, like an ostrich, keep our heads in the sand and ignore or try to hide the problem. Let’s face the problem head on and let us together as
Bahamians build a better Bahamas.”
“Any questions the commission may ask, I am prepared to answer. As far as me receiving information about this matter before, I can say categorically that I did not.”
“The time is right to move on with a Commission of Inquiry so that we can set the reset button for the police force and many other institutions moving forward.”
He underscored the importance of addressing corruption holistically to correct systemic flaws and create a transparent framework for the future. He called the inquiry an opportunity to rebuild public trust and strengthen national institutions.
“The Prime Minister has an opportunity to show his strength and his leadership,” he said. “Move forward with a commission. I would be prepared to offer whatever assistance to place this country on the right path, and I am certain that most Bahamians, many, would do the same thing because everybody wants to see the same thing – a better and stronger Bahamas.”
“Everybody wants to see a more transparent Bahamas, a Bahamas that is emulated and respected by many countries.”
WSC general manager testifies he was not instructed to involve police
By LEANDRA ROLLE
Chief Reporter
Tribune
lrolle@tribunemedia.net
AS the criminal trial of Long Island MP Adrian Gibson and others resumed yesterday, Water and Sewerage Corporation’s (WSC) general manager testified he was not instructed to involve the police in investigating alleged fraud involving contracts awarded under the Minnis administration.
Robert Deal said this in response to questions from Mr Gibson’s attorney Damian Gomez, KC.
“I don’t think the minister spoke to me directly
regarding that, nor indirectly either,” he said.
Mr Gomez also questioned the witness about letters of acceptance (LOAs) sent to companies awarded maintenance contracts when Mr Gibson was the executive chairman.
However, Mr Deal said he was not involved in drafting the LOAs.
“I was not directly involved in the management of the projects, so I can’t say when the LOAs became known or what,” he added.
Mr Deal also testified about the project’s job jacket, which he said should outline the scope of work
and the project’s intentions.
“As I’ve said, the job jacket outlined that this was phase one of what I assume is a larger project and it outlined the needed scope,” he said. “I would’ve crossed out items that I thought should definitely be listed in the scope and I would have added other comments.”
Mr Gibson is facing several charges concerning his tenure as WSC executive chairman under the Minnis administration.
The charges stem from Mr Gibson’s alleged failure to declare his interest in contracts awarded by the WSC.
The FNM politician
Former Prime minister Dr Hubert minnis
is charged with Elwood Donaldson, Jr, former WSC’s general manager, Joan Knowles, Peaches
Farquharson and Jerome Missick. Mr Gomez KC, Murrio Ducille KC, Geoffrey
Farquharson, Ian Cargill, Bryan Bastian, Ryan Eve, Raphael Moxey, represent the defendants.
ADriAn Gibson
Pinder warns international
The Bahamas will ‘cease to exist’
mitigating climate change and addressing its devastating impacts on vulnerable countries.
Mr Pinder cited the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which caused $3 billion in damages — 25 percent of the country’s GDP — and resulted in the displacement of thousands and significant loss of life.
During his address, he described the destruction caused by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, emphasising the catastrophic impact on The Bahamas.
“This is the reality we face — a reality that we did not create but are forced to endure because of the inaction of major polluters,” he said, calling on industrialised nations to take responsibility for their role in the climate crisis.
Mr Pinder underscored the human cost of the climate crisis, while detailing how the 20-foot storm surge from Dorian ravaged the islands, causing over $3 billion in damages, displacing nearly 10,000 people, and destroying thousands of homes.
His argument highlighted the urgent and disproportionate burden faced by The Bahamas, where over 80 percent of its land lies less than 1.5 meters above sea level, making it exceptionally vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
“If we continue on our current path, my country will cease to exist,” Mr Pinder warned, as he
called on industrialised nations to take accountability for their historical and ongoing contributions to climate change.
“Who then will take my people when their country does not exist anymore? We are not just speaking
about numbers or projections. We are speaking about lives, cultures, and histories at risk of being erased completely.”
His address highlighted key legal principles, including the concept of common but differentiated
responsibilities, arguing that major greenhouse gas emitters must reduce emissions and provide reparations for the damage inflicted on vulnerable states.
Mr Pinder advocated for decisive legal action,
emphasising that international law obligates states to prevent environmental harm beyond their borders.
He urged the ICJ to issue an advisory opinion that reaffirms these principles and establishes a clear framework for accountability and reparations.
“We are not just speaking about numbers or projections,” Mr Pinder concluded.
“We are speaking about lives, cultures, and histories at risk of being erased completely.”
Laroda calls for ‘cultural shifts’ at opening of Disabilities Week
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporters
kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
MINISTER of Social Services, Broadcasting and Information Myles Laroda called for cultural shifts as his ministry brought in Disability Awareness Week yesterday.
Mr Laroda urged the public to recognise the basic human rights of disabled individuals.
“There are so many disabled people willing and able to work, and all they ask for is the chance,” he said. “We need to be sensitive to their needs because they are among the most vulnerable in our communities.”
He pointed out the frequent misuse of
accessible parking spaces by able-bodied people, even when alternative options are available nearby.
Mr Laroda also noted the lack of wheelchair access at public events, such as town halls in Abaco, where some attendees in wheelchairs could not fully participate due to inaccessible venues. He criticised the inadequate accessibility of government buildings, including the House of Assembly, where existing measures fall short of meeting the needs of disabled people. These examples, he argued, reflect a broader societal neglect that must be addressed.
“We have a community of persons who do not feel that they’re a part of this
society,” he said. “They don’t feel as if they’re included, and we pay no attention to their special needs.”
Ann Marie Davis, spouse of the Prime Minister, called for the removal of discriminatory attitudes against persons with disabilities, stressing the importance of inclusion and accessibility.
“We have to remove the stigma,” she said. “We have to stop being discriminatory against persons with disabilities and recognise that they have to be included, increase accessibility so that they will be included in the workplace and everywhere else that they can perform and function normally.”
Mrs Davis urged stakeholders to create
Ministry of Healt H notes rise in Hand, f oot and Mout H disease
By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter
ebowleg@tribunemedia.net
THE Ministry of Health and Wellness has reported a rise in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases in nurseries and daycare facilities. In a press release yesterday, the ministry noted that such increases are often observed in the paediatric population during the fall and winter months.
“HFMD primarily affects young children and presents with symptoms such as fever, decreased appetite, sore throat, and a rash appearing on the palms of the hands, soles
of the feet, knees, elbows, buttocks, and/or genital area,” the ministry said.
“While HFMD is typically not a severe illness, early identification and prevention measures are important to reducing the risk of complications and controlling its spread.” The ministry said the National Communicable Disease Surveillance Unit remains vigilant in its monitoring of disease trends in the Bahamian population.
Establishments and individuals involved in the care and education of young children are urged to adopt measures such as setting up sanitisation
stations at all facility entrances, promoting hand hygiene among staff and visitors, and regularly cleaning toys and shared surfaces.
Another measure is isolate, then remove any ill children from the school environment and refer them for medical assessment before allowing them to return to the group setting.
The ministry added: “Parents and guardians, who suspect their child may have HFMD are strongly encouraged to contact their healthcare provider immediately for an assessment and advice on supportive care.”
environments where disabled people can contribute meaningfully, emphasising the need for practical and systemic change.
Education and accessibility, she said, are critical to ensuring that persons with disabilities can pursue their dreams and achieve independence.
“We must include them,” she said. “We must have the accessibility for them to be included, the education for
them, so that whatever path they choose, they can make it there.”
Mrs Davis commended the efforts of mothers and caregivers who support persons with disabilities, calling their contributions invaluable.
“I have to, must, must give kudos to the mothers and the caregivers who have brought their children or persons with, or who care for persons with disabilities,
who have done so much for them, to mold them and to guide them along in their life thus far,” she said. She described their work as sacrifices that go beyond words, emphasising the critical role caregivers play in shaping the future of persons with disabilities. She called on society to recognise these individuals and provide greater support for the challenges they face daily.
Attorney GenerAl ryAn Pinder
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Transparency not a one-way street
IN THe wake of Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander’s national statement on Sunday, we called in this column for a Commission of Inquiry. We have not been alone in that regard.
Another voice that has been calling for such an inquiry is former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis.
Dr Minnis was mentioned in Commissioner Fernander’s statement – who said he planned to engage with Dr Minnis, along with former Commissioner Anthony Ferguson and former Minister of National Security Marvin Dames.
The goal it seemed would be to find out more information about the cocaine conspiracy detailed in the US indictment that has seen one police officer and one defence force officer already arrested and a total of 11 bahamians and two Colombians named.
The scheme purportedly involved working with corrupt bahamian officials to smuggle “tons of cocaine” through The bahamas into the United States. various gun charges were also part of the indictment.
One of those already arrested is one of Commissioner Fernander’s very own Chief Superintendents, elvis Curtis.
Dr Minnis was forthright in his response. If the commissioner wants to talk, let’s do it at a Commission of Inquiry.
He said: “I am telling the commissioner in advance what he needs to do: push for a Commission of Inquiry, let’s look at this holistically.”
It makes sense. This is not a situation for half measures – if we want to establish exactly what we are dealing with in terms of corruption, let us do it properly.
As it is, our country’s leadership is at odds. We have the commissioner talking
about needing to root out a “culture of corruption” while Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell says he does not believe there is systemic corruption within the police force. Well, which is it?
There is a line being repeated about there being a few bad officers, or a few bad apples. What if there are more than a few?
The conspiracy as outlined in the allegations in the US suggests a wideranging smuggling operation. The indictment refers to officials, plural, who are corrupt. There are also claims of at least one occasion when a DeA agent was told that a suspect was “off limits”. That suggests a broader amount of corruption than just a few bad apples – unless all of the apples happen to have found their way into the same basket.
Dr Minnis went on to say: “Any questions the commission may ask, I am prepared to answer. As far as me receiving information about this matter before, I can say categorically that I did not.
“The time is right to move on with a Commission of Inquiry so that we can set the reset button for the police force and many other institutions moving forward.”
What has not been articulated by anyone is any reason why we should not proceed with such a commission. Cost? Are we trying to save a few dollars while the commissioner is talking about asking for more money to fund anti-corruption measures?
There is also something remarkable about members of the former administration seeking answers while members of the current administration seem to be avoiding providing any of their own.
Transparency does not go one way. let us get it all out in the open.
Might is not always right
EDITOR, The Tribune.
I belIeve it was former speaker of the house of assembly Ms Italia Johnson who set the standard for fairness or balance when she coined the phrase “While the government may have its way, the opposition will have its say” (not that others did not try to be balanced). This line has been quoted by all and sundry ever since. last week in the house of assembly, the speaker Ms Patricia Deveaux, in her zeal to show who is boss, shut down the house after prime minister Davis responded to allegations about alleged corruptions within the police force. The speaker denied the leader of her majesty’s loyal opposition a chance to address the people’s parliament on this most critical issue, a move which was no doubt sanctioned by the government. The speaker’s contention was that she did not receive the opposition’s communications in time, and that granting
such a request would have been in breech of the house rules. Please! May I remind the good speaker that all rules can be amended or changed, unless they were handed down by the Creator himself on Mount Sinai in the desert. but this was nothing more than a poorly disguised attempt to strong arm the opposition and to show who is in charge. That’s all. Sadly, the speaker’s actions flies in the face or runs counter to the very essence of democracy (rules or no rules). In fairness, the leader of the opposition should have been given a chance to address the people’s parliament on such an important issue. What crime could have been conceivably done in allowing the leader of the opposition to address the Parliament? None! I thought that the speaker missed an opportunity firstly, to foster cordiality and goodwill in the house, and secondly, to build on the foundation and
COI’s Bain belongs on the sidelines
EDITOR, The Tribune.
maintain the standard set by those who occupied the chair before her.
Democracy suffered an unfortunate blow in the house of assembly last week. While the speaker might be convinced that she was only doing her job, many of us on the outside felt that her actions were unjustified, again, because this was not the first time the speaker behaved in such a manner. but it is not too late. The speaker still has an opportunity to reverse course, demonstrate that she is truly independent, promote a culture of fairness or balance, and build a legacy of which she would be justly proud, once she is out of office; otherwise, history would be unkind to her, and rightly so.
Finally I would only wish to remind Madam Speaker that there is an old adage which says “Might is not always right!”
ZEPHANIAH BURROWS Nassau. November 30, 2024.
I WAS appalled at seeing Coalition of Independents (COI) leader lincoln bain hostilely confronting Free National Movement leader Michael Pintard in the Minority Room of the House of Assembly on last week. This should have never been allowed to happen. I consider it a breach of security. The entire COI charade appeared to have been aimed at humiliating Pintard before a nationally televised audience. I first saw it posted on the Facebook page of an anti-Pintard news site that claims to provide accurate hard news. I was somewhat surprised that it was lifted from Our News bahamas. Pintard is the duly elected leader of the official Opposition of The bahamas. His post is constitutional. bain came off as unprofessional, hotheaded and reckless in the manner he addressed Pintard, disrespectfully calling him on a first name basis. bain showed that he belongs on the sidelines picketing as an activist rather than being an elected member of the House of Assembly. I didn’t see one shred of PM material in him, owing to his disrespectful antics. It is like bain and COI operatives are attempting to upstage the Opposition FNM. They seem to be more intent on being an opposition to the official opposition than to the governing Progressive liberal Party. The COI leader comes off as irresponsible and scattershot. bain and Co. are saying the things bahamians want to hear in order to get elected.
bain’s status within the COI is beginning to show troubling hints of mutating into a political
cult. I say this because of a video of him a year or so ago marching while a supporter wiped his face. Then there was another rabid supporter whom I heard with my very own ears bragging that he would perform a grotesque act in himself on demonstration of his loyalty to the leadership of the COI. This incident occurred on the day of the West Grand bahama and bimini by-election in late 2023. bain contested that election, even though I am not sure what his ties are to the two northern Family Islands. If a fanatic is willing to do what the aforementioned pledged in show of support for bain as a political hopeful, what would he do if bain is an MP or PM? I shudder to think of what fanatical COI supporters would do. A cult of personality is slowly developing within the COI much like what I’m seeing in North Korea with President Kim Jong Un and his deceased father. I recall bain’s attempts to secure an FNM nomination ahead of the 2017 general election. In a May 2016 edition of The Tribune, there’s an article about bain, former FNM Senator lanisha Rolle and some alleged disparaging comments made regarding then FNM MP loretta butler-Turner. back then, butler-Turner and then FNM leader Dr Hubert Minnis were locked in a protracted political war for the reins of the party leadership. According to the article, bain was summoned to a meeting with then FNM Chairman Sidney Collie.
Rolle was squarely in the corner of Minnis. I am not sure whose side bain was on. That is really not the point of bringing up the unsavory past of the FNM. My point is to show to COI fanatics that their leader used to be an FNM. COI folks act as if bain was never tied to any of the two major political parties. but the facts belie their assumptions. The FNM had internal issues back then much like every other major or fringe political party. It was not perfect in 2016. That was just eight years ago. bain had no issue supporting the party then. What has changed within the FNM that would cause him to act in such a hostile manner towards the current leadership? My educated guess is that the party did not nominate him in 2017. That’s why bain is so belligerent towards Pintard. And what I find so funny about this entire episode is that the anti-Pintard online news source engaged in speculations about Minnis being behind the COI charade in the Minority Room. Yet it was Minnis who was FNM head when bain was overlooked for a nomination. If nothing else, his issue should be with Minnis, not Pintard, who was a lightweight within the FNM in 2016. Pintard wasn’t even an MP at the time. bain needs to vent his frustrations in Killarney, not Marco City. I used to listen to what bain had to say. He’s saying some good things. but his latest antics in the House of Assembly are the final straw for me. He comes off as too reckless, angry and belligerent to be taken seriously by swing voters.
KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand bahama December 2, 2024.
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The Beijing-gifted giant panda Ke Ke makes her debut appearance to media in Ocean Park during a preview event in Hong Kong, Monday.
Photo: Chan Long hei/AP
GBPA provides turkey vouchers to 24 local charities for families in need
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
THe Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) held its annual Christmas turkey distribution yesterday, providing vouchers to 24 local organisations.
GBPA chairman Sarah St George announced that 300 turkeys would be distributed to families in need across Grand Bahama, acknowledging the challenges many are facing due to rising food prices.
“It is frustrating that the prices of everything have gone up, especially the price of food,” she said. “This makes it hard for families to provide a decent meal for their children. every child, every home, and everyone should experience the joy of Christmas, and dining on turkey is a special tradition.
Once again, the GBPA is giving 300 turkeys.”
Ms St George expressed gratitude to the recipients for their dedication to supporting vulnerable families.
“I wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to GB’s gatekeepers of goodwill, the true standard-bearers of Christmas,” she said.
Among the organisations receiving vouchers were
Urban Renewal and West Grand Bahama, represented by Senator Kirkland Russell; east Grand Bahama, represented by Antonia Turner-Higgs for Senator James Turner; the Grand Bahama Salvation Army, represented by Major Hendrik Sumter and eugenia Sumter; the Grand Bahama Red Cross Association, represented by Stephanie Barr; and the Council for the Disabled, represented by Sherry Bain.
Other recipients included Norma Headley of the Cancer Association of Grand Bahama; Chief Councillor Frazette Gibson of the City of Freeport District Council; Dudley Seide of Reach Out Ministries; the Grand Bahama Children’s Home; Kevin Delancy of HASB Foundation; Mervie Knowles of Home Away From Home; Irene Burrows of Burrows Home for the Aged; Raybertha Hudson of Raybertha’s Home for the Aged; and Carleta Carolina of the evangeline Jervis Distribution Community Center.
Additional groups receiving support included the Kiwanis Club, represented by President Carla Russell; the Pilot Club of Lucaya, represented by President
Shauna Taylor; the Sunset Pilot Club of Grand Bahama; the Rotary Club of Grand Bahama, represented by President Roosevelt Rolle; the Rotary Club of Freeport Sunrise; the Grand Bahama Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., represented by Franita Harris; Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, represented by Denecia Dean Campbell; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Pi Upsilon Omega Chapter, represented by President elva Davis; and Lolita Henfield of Heavenly View Ministries.
Dudley Seide of Reach Out Ministries expressed his gratitude for the GBPA’s continued support, noting that the donation would help provide hot meals this Christmas.
“The Port Authority has always been there for Grand Bahama,” he said.
“As I continue to see the homeless go hungry and families struggle to put food on their tables, today is a great day.” He also urged the wider community to join the effort, saying: “If everyone purchases a little extra, we can help someone in need.”
Senator Kirkland Russell highlighted the importance of addressing the needs of the most vulnerable populations.
“Urban Renewal has allowed me to go into densely populated urban areas and discover young, old, and middle-aged Bahamians who have fallen through the cracks and need a simple hand up,” he said.
He praised the GBPA as a model of corporate responsibility and called on other businesses to step up. “I urge the business community in Grand Bahama — whether fast food operators, chemical and pharmaceutical companies, the shipyard and container port, or hotels — to unify their efforts. If everyone does a little more, we can provide compassionate assistance to many more of our brothers and sisters on Grand Bahama.”
Stephanie Barr of the Red Cross said the donation would significantly benefit individuals in need, adding: “We thank the GBPA for its continued support of the community.”
elva Simmons Davis, president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Pi Upsilon Omega Chapter, echoed the sentiment: “The turkeys will provide a delicious meal for many in the community.”
Carleta Carolina of the evangeline Jervis Community Center emphasised
Bound to keep the peace for one year after injuring cousin with cutlass
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was bound to keep the peace for one year yesterday after admitting to injuring his cousin with a cutlass in Andros while allegedly trying to break up a fight.
Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr initially arraigned Kashon J Fowler on grievous harm.
However, after reviewing the medical evidence in
his case, Magistrate Allen reduced the charge to causing harm.
The defendant reportedly chopped Chad Barr in the right hand with a cutlass in Lowe’s Sound, North Andros, around 12pm on November 22.
Mr Barr reportedly had a small scar from the incident.
Fowler pleaded guilty to the charge and accepted the facts in his case.
The defendant said he was “very sorry” for his
Seven monthS jail for man with $150 worth of drug S
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN was sentenced to seven months in prison yesterday after admitting to carrying over $150 worth of drugs in Fox Hill last week.
Senior Magistrate Raquel Whyms arraigned Dustin Knowles, 30, on two counts of possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply. Officers on mobile patrol reportedly found the defendant clad in all black carrying a black bag containing 1 3/8oz of marijuana
Urban
and six grams of cocaine in the area of Reeves Street, Fox Hill aound 12.32pm on November 29. Officers seized $86.80 in mixed currency during this incident, money suspected of being the proceeds of crime. Knowles pleaded guilty to the charges.
After prosecutor Sergeant 2257 Wilkinson informed her that the defendant had several priors of a similar nature, Magistrate Whyms sentenced Knowles to seven months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.
THe Ministry of Housing and Urban Renewal hosted a Thanksgiving Day event at the St James Native Baptist Church Auditorium on Thursday last week. The initiative supported over 30 deserving families across 13 Urban Renewal communities in New Providence, providing them with parcels of groceries to ensure a warm and nourishing holiday celebration.
Urban Renewal also supported two senior citizens’
homes, Mary Ingraham Care Centre and A&A Comfort Care Centre, with $500 grocery gift certificates each.
Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal Keith Bell attended, along with Minister of State for Housing and Urban Renewal Lisa Rahming, Urban Renewal director Stephen Dean, and Deputy Director Lilliemae Longley. Centre managers and Urban Renewal staff were also present.
actions and claimed it was an accident. Fowler explained that he didn’t mean to hurt the complainant and that he only meant to “spank” the defendant with the cutlass to break up a fight between him and another relative. Fowler also claimed that his relatives were drinking at the time.
Magistrate Allen urged the defendant to use more common sense the next time he tried to break up a fight. He also said
that violence is never the answer to resolve conflict.
The defendant was bound to keep the peace for one year. He was also ordered to compensate the complainant $500.
Failure to comply with either of these conditions would carry a nine-month prison term.
Fowler must return to court for payment on March 7, 2025. After that, he must return once more for a report on December 2, 2025.
the year-round impact of such support. “We distribute food throughout the year, and we want the Port Authority and Sarah St George to know that we do not take you for granted. We appreciate all that you do and will continue doing our part to help those in need,” she said.
Lolita Henfield of Heavenly View Ministries in West Grand Bahama spoke about how the initiative would aid displaced
families in the area. “So many times, we feel alone, and we thank God for this answered prayer today. There are many displaced families in West Grand Bahama, and this will truly go a long way,” she said.
The GBPA’s Christmas turkey distribution has become an important annual tradition, helping ensure that families across Grand Bahama can enjoy a meaningful and joyous holiday meal.
Grand Bahama Port Authority held its annual Christmas turkey voucher giveaway to over 20 local organisations in Grand Bahama on Monday.
Pictured from left: Urban Renewal staff Tarrio Rahming, Carmichael reception Latoya McKinney and Carmichael MP Keith Bell
PushForward: Invest to end violence against women and girls
By Tonni BrodBer and Simon Springe TT
WhilE women and girls here in the Caribbean, and across the globe, have made some strides and progress towards a more just and equal world, there is still much work to be done.
Globally, one in three women are estimated to have experienced physical or sexual violence at least once in their lifetime, and UN Women-supported research conducted across five Caribbean countries found that an average of 46 percent of women have experienced at least one form of violence. Sadly, this number may even be higher due to under reporting – as many women and girls have resigned to suffer in silence.
The Caribbean region continues to witness high rates of gender-based violence (GBV) including intimate partner violence, sexual violence, including rape and sexual assault, and human trafficking. Many women and girls, also face harassment and exploitation, while simply seeking to go about their daily lives.
Violence against Women and Girls has been found to be related to higher levels of broader citizen’s insecurity and conflict. We must urgently and collectively work to create safe spaces for women and eliminate violence from their lives.
The role of The 16 dayS of acT ivi S m campaign
UN Women Multi-Country Office – Caribbean.
The global 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign seeks to mobilise individuals, governments, and organisations to raise awareness about violence against women and to demand accountability. As the Caribbean joins the global community under the theme “#PushForward: invest to End Violence Against Women and Girls”, we urge governments, businesses, and communities to commit to long-term investment, both financial and social, in addressing and eradicating violence against women and girls (VAWG) across the region. Real change requires a longterm commitment to
Simon Springett – UN Resident coordinator, Barbados and Eastern Caribbean.
strengthening legal frameworks, improving support systems for survivors, and transforming societal attitudes towards gender equality, to break the cycle of violence and build a future where women and girls can thrive free from harm.
The link To Beijing +30
This year’s theme is intrinsically linked to the ongoing goals of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995). Marking its 30th year, the Beijing +30 agenda highlights the urgent need to address the persistent gaps in gender equality, emphasizing the importance of ending VAW, as one of the key priorities for action. Thirty years ago, Barbados’ delegation was led by Dame Nita Barrow, and contributed to an international standard and guideline like no other.
The Beijing Platform for Action recognizes that violence against women cannot be eradicated without breaking down societal barriers and addressing the root causes of inequality, and more so that
men and boys must be part of the solution. Engaging men as allies in the fight to end violence is critical to challenging entrenched patriarchal norms.
As the world reflects on Beijing +30, and evaluates progress post its adoption in 1995, this serves as an important moment for the Caribbean to take stock.
Despite various commitments and significant progress, the region still faces significant challenges in achieving the goals set out in Beijing. Persistent gender disparities, combined with data scarcity and entrenched cultural and societal norms, make it difficult to assess inequalities. Moreso, while many countries have enacted laws to protect women from violence, many are viewed as weak and or poorly enforced, leading to a culture of impunity for perpetrators. Additionally, gaps in implementation, victim support services, and access to justice continue to
hinder effective action.
One major area of progress is the growing recognition that GBV is a human rights violation. in Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago, new laws have been introduced to address domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking, and various regional organizations, including the Caribbean Community (CARiCOM), have made commitments to promote gender equality and address GBV.
U ni Te! call To acT ion To achieve change
Ending violence requires broad, inclusive action from all sectors of society: governments, law enforcement, civil society, and the private sector. i t requires changes in laws and policies, but also in the hearts and minds of individuals.
The region must continue to unite to ensure that the commitments made in Beijing are fully realised.
Only through sustained, collective efforts can the region move toward a future where women and girls are free from violence and able to live in dignity and safety.
We need equality now, if we are to halt the reversal of gains, and accelerate the pace of progress towards more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous societies.
An Aver A ge of 140 women A nd girls were killed by A pA rtner or rel Ative per d Ay in 2023, the U n s Ays
UniTed naT ion S associated press
ThE deadliest place for women is at home and 140 women and girls on average were killed by an intimate partner or family member per day last year, two U.N. agencies reported Monday. Globally, an intimate partner or family member was responsible for the deaths of approximately 51,100 women and girls during 2023, an increase from an estimated 48,800 victims in 2022, UN Women and the U.N. Office of Drugs and Crime said.
The report released on the international Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women said the increase was largely the result of more data being available from countries and not more killings.
But the two agencies stressed that “Women and girls everywhere continue to be affected by this extreme form of genderbased violence and no region is excluded.” And they said, “the home is the most dangerous place for women and girls.”
UN Women’s Deputy Executive Director Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda told a news conference launching the report that women have been killed by their loved ones for a long time and the trend is continuing because underlying issues haven’t been addressed — especially gender stereotyping and social norms.
“This is killing which is associated with power over women,” she said, and it continues because of the continuing impunity for violent attacks against women. Gumbonzvanda, a Zimbabwean and longtime advocate for women’s rights, said there is “a lot of perpetrator anonymity” when it comes to the killing of women by partners or family members because “it means the family members have to bring justice against another family member.”
UN Women is campaigning for those with economic and political power and for leaders in various traditions not to use their power to perpetuate violence. “Power should be used to facilitate options for prevention,” she said. According to the report, the highest number of intimate partner and family killings was in Africa – with an estimated 21,700 victims in 2023. Africa also had the highest number of victims relative to the size of its population — 2.9 victims per 100,000 people, it said. There were also high rates last year in the Americas with 1.6 female victims per 100,000 and in Oceania with 1.5 per 100,000, it said. Rates were significantly lower in Asia at 0.8 victims per 100,000 and Europe at 0.6 per 100,000. According to the report, the intentional killing of women in the
sphere in Europe and the
Americas is largely by intimate partners. By contrast, the vast majority of male homicides take place outside homes and families, it said.
“Even though men and
boys account for the vast majority of homicide victims, women and girls continue to be disproportionately affected by lethal violence in the private sphere,” the report said.
“An estimated 80% of all homicide victims in 2023 were men while 20% were women, but lethal violence within the family takes a much higher toll on women than men, with almost 60% of all women who were intentionally killed in 2023 being victims of intimate partner/family member homicide,” it said.
The report said that despite efforts to prevent the killing of women and girls by countries, their killings “remain at alarmingly high levels.”
“They are often the culmination of repeated episodes of gender-based violence, which means they are preventable through timely and effective interventions,” the two agencies said.
Tonni Brodber – Representative,
private
Women’s rights activists set orange pair of shoes on the pavement for every attempted or successful killing of a woman by partner violence during the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the start of the Orange Days in Cologne, Germany, Monday, November 25, 2024.
Photo: martin meissner/AP
New threat of World War Three
Writing a regular weekly column makes one particularly wary of repetition, either of an issue or the thoughts expressed. So, after writing about Ukraine last week, i am reluctant to return even indirectly to the subject today. But what has particularly caught my eye in the UK press over the last few days is the publicity being given to speculation by well-informed, highranking people in Britain about the imminence of a third world war, with military experts reported to be saying it has already started.
Prominent amongst these has been no less a figure than Sir richard Dearlove, who from 1999 to 2004 led Mi6, Britain’s secret intelligence agency. recently, the current head of Mi5, the UK’s Security Service responsible for keeping the country safe, also separately warned publicly about aggressive action by russia around the world. the head of the royal Air Force, as well, has spoken publicly about the uncertain state of global geopolitics and the erosion of the West’s strategic advantage in an interconnected world. to top all this, the current head of Mi6 has said in a separate public statement that the world is now more dangerous than it has been for several decades or more. in his view, the continuing conflict in the Middle East has helped inevitably to add a new generation of terrorists, many of whom have been radicalised by events there and with whom the West faces “a reckoning”, while Putin rampages in Europe and iran moves steadily towards developing a nuclear weapon .
The Peter Young column
reportedly, he and others directly concerned with the nation’s security, and who are in a position to judge such things, have suggested that a return to great power competition and confrontation, which is at the root of violence around the world, is taking place, with a complex web of military and economic rivalries that are spanning the globe. given the experience, positions and authority of these people, their views should carry considerable weight. As well as concerns about iran and China, in parallel Ukraine’s former military chief, who is now the country’s ambassador in London, maintains that WW3 has begun because about ten thousand troops from north Korea have been deployed in the Kursk border region inside russia. they are fighting alongside russian forces as Moscow seeks to regain territory occupied by Ukraine when it mounted a surprise raid in August.
According to press reports, Sir richard Dearlove has declared that Britain must “face up to the fact” that russia believes it is fighting an actual war with the West rather than just Ukraine. He is quoted as saying “i don’t think there’s any point in beating about the bush”, adding that the US and Europe are in a “very dangerous situation”. He added that now that there was a full scale war on the continent of Europe it was essential to have some dialogue between the antagonists. russia’s ambassador to Britain has openly declared that the UK government’s decision to allow its long-range missiles supplied to Ukraine to be used inside russia has meant that Britain was now “directly involved” in the war.
Sir richard also mentions that the Polish prime minister Donald tusk has been
mistaken in talking about a pre-war situation when in reality there is already a war, with Western intelligence agencies saying publicly that, apart from the Ukraine war, the russians are “going feral” in developing what is being widely called hybrid warfare across Europe and around the world.
this includes cyberattacks, disinformation - designed to turn people in other countries against the West - sabotage and economic manipulation; for example, the targeting of logistical hubs in Western countries to disrupt critical supply chains. the russian government have also increased efforts to chase down their own dissidents overseas and political opponents at home – and, back in Ukraine, russia has intensified its attacks on the nation’s domestic civilian
infrastructure including a huge assault recently on its energy system, resulting in massive and widespread loss of power.
Meanwhile, Presidentelect trump has chosen retired army general Keith Kellogg as his special envoy to Ukraine and russia. He is expected to play a crucial role in potential negotiations to end the war. Kellogg has already come up with some ideas, in a paper prepared last April, about securing a ceasefire and peace agreement. these will doubtless become clearer in the run-up to trump’s inauguration in January. But it is surely safe to say that there will be early progress to fulfil his pledge to stop the war in Ukraine, nearly three years of which have been so costly in terms of human lives, misery and destruction for such a small amount
UK police training for RBPF
of territorial gain. it is a reasonable assumption that all concerned will await President trump’s intervention with considerable anticipation; and it is noteworthy that the President-elect is reported to have spoken already to both Zelensky and Putin.
Despite the warnings about WW3 described above, it seems from all the evidence i have seen, that other well informed commentators believe that the main players on both sides will now indeed wait to see the details of Washington’s peace proposals. no one can really read the russian mind or assess the importance to Putin of his dreams of a restored russian empire. His action in Ukraine has been a failure in so far as his supposedly superior forces have not managed to prevail against what is essentially a neighbouring minnow that has defended itself so effectively - and now, in recent days, russian forces have been further extended after becoming involved again in action against rebels in Syria. Even though there is increased escalation and tension in Ukraine and the Middle East, it looks to many that we are still some way from any new shooting war elsewhere while, of course, civil wars rage in Sudan and now in Syria once more. russia may have revised its nuclear weapon threshold. But many consider that Putin would surely only use such weapons if it were in his interest to do so - not least after giving due consideration to the dangerous likelihood of mutual destruction.
HoW good it was to learn about some recent training delivered here in the Bahamas by the UK’s renowned College of Policing.
For many years, Britain has provided training for royal Bahamas Police Force officers who have attended courses in the UK on a regular basis.
But last month two UK Superintendents with
extensive relevant international experience visited the Bahamas to provide a two-week course aimed at developing the personal, organizational and operational skills of rBPF officers identified as emerging leaders. twenty officers attended. it was interesting to hear that by the second week of the course the Superintendents delivering the
training had remarked how well the first week had gone with a very bright and articulate group of participants showing a positive attitude who clearly had a promising future, professionally, ahead of them. it was also nice to hear that the UK team intended to stay in touch with the trainees and offer support and further mentoring in the future.
Tribu T e T o long-T erm friend
WitHoUt any doubt the passing of Keith Parker, who was a good friend of mine, has been a major blow to many – both family as well as his array of friends, contacts and acquaintances acquired since he had made his home in the Bahamas many years ago. He was a most remarkable and admirable person of great integrity – and it is with a heavy heart that i offer a few lines about this fine fellow countryman who by any measure made his positive mark on everything he did and accomplished. Unfortunately, space today does not allow the description in any detail – as in a full scale
eulogy – of his amazing level of achievement during such a productive life in so many different and varied fields. notable amongst these was, of course, his outstanding contribution to athletics in the Bahamas – he had become a legendary figure as a track and field coach. He was a person of many parts, skills and talents who gave so much to the community. truly a man for all seasons. in saying a fond farewell to this accomplished and popular figure, who was liked and loved in equal measure by so many, i consider myself fortunate to have been able to interact with him on a personal
basis in countless ways over many years. it also occurred to me that perhaps people’s sadness at his passing might be eased a little by a sense of gratitude for the successful and long life of a man who achieved so much. Keith Parker also had a wonderful sense of humour and quick wit which, of course, contributed so much to his warm personality. With fond memories of so many happy times together, my wife and i will miss him more than we can say as we also offer deepest sympathy to his dear wife, Sara, and to the rest of the family. May his soul rest in peace.
it will surely be encouraging to many to hear about this new example of cooperation between the Bahamas and Britain in such an important field.
British High Commissioner thomas Hartley was quoted as saying: “We are very pleased to continue our decades old partnership with the royal Bahamas Police Force with this training, and i am
grateful to Commissioner Fernander for identifying such an excellent cohort of future police leaders.”
While hearing about this excellent example of cooperation between our two countries, it was also good to learn that the training course came after four senior rBPF officers completed the UK’s prestigious international Leadership Programme. it
followed, too, the completion by three Bahamians of Masters degrees at British universities as part of the UK government’s Chevening scholarship scheme. the UK has also facilitated a policing exchange between its national Police Chiefs Council and Caribbean Forces on tackling violence against women and girls, with phase two coming in Spring, 2025.
In this photo released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service released on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, The Russian military’s Uragan multiple rocket launchers fire rockets at Ukrainian troops at an undisclosed location.
Photo: Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP
Biden pardons son, breaking promise and tainting his legacy
WASHINGTON Associated Press
President Joe Biden’s decision to go back on his word and issue a categorical pardon for his son, Hunter, just weeks before his scheduled sentencing on gun and tax convictions was a surprise that wasn’t all that surprising.
not to those who had witnessed the president’s shared anguish over his two sons after the boys survived a car crash that killed Biden’s first wife and a daughter more than a half-century ago. Or to those who heard the president regularly lament the death of his older son, Beau, from cancer or voice concerns — largely in private — about Hunter’s sobriety and health after years of deep addiction.
But by choosing to put his family first, the 82-year-old president — who had pledged to restore a fractured public’s trust in the nation’s institutions and respect for the rule of law — has raised new questions about his already teetering legacy.
“this is a bad precedent that could be abused by later Presidents and will sadly tarnish his reputation,” Colorado’s democratic Gov. Jared Polis wrote in a post on X. He added that while he could sympathize with Hunter Biden’s struggles, “no one is above the law, not a President and not a President’s son.” Biden aides and allies had been resigned to the prospect of the president using his extraordinary power in the waning days of his presidency to ensure his son wouldn’t see time behind bars, especially after donald trump ‘s win. the president’s supporters have long viewed Biden’s commitment to his family as an asset overall, even if Hunter’s personal conduct and tangled business dealings were seen as
a persistent liability. But the pardon comes as Biden has become increasingly isolated since the loss to trump by Vice President Kamala Harris, who jumped in to the race after the president’s catastrophic debate against trump in June forced his exit from the election.
He is still struggling to resolve thorny foreign policy issues in the Middle east and europe. And he must reckon with his decision to seek reelection despite his advanced age, which helped return the Oval Office to trump, a man he had warned time and again was a threat to democratic norms.
trump has gleefully planned to undo Biden’s signature achievements on climate change and reverse the democrat’s efforts to reinvigorate the country’s alliances, all while standing poised to take credit for a strengthening economy and billions in infrastructure investments that are in the pipeline for the coming years.
And now, Biden has handed the r epublican a pretext to carry through with sweeping plans to upend the d epartment of Justice as the r epublican vows to seek retribution against supposed adversaries.
“ t his pardon is just deflating for those of us who’ve been out there for a few years yelling about what a threat trump is,” r epublican Joe Walsh, a vocal trump critic, said on M sn BC. “’ n obody’s above the law,’ we’ve been screaming. Well, Joe Biden just made clear his son Hunter is above the law.”
Jean-Pierre said Monday from Air Force One that the president wrestled with the decision but ultimately felt his son’s case had been tainted by politics, though she tried to thread the needle — insisting he had faith in the Justice
d epartment. “He believes in the justice system, but he also believes that politics infected the process and led to a miscarriage of justice,” she said. But trump has already made very clear his intent to disrupt federal law enforcement with his initial nomination of outspoken critics like former r ep. Matt Gaetz to be attorney general and Kash Patel to replace FB i d irector Christopher Wray, who nominally still has more than two years left in his term. (Gaetz ended up quickly withdrawing his name amid scrutiny over sex trafficking allegations.) reacting to the pardon, trump spokesman steven Cheung said in a statement: “that system of justice must be fixed and due process must be restored for all Americans, which is exactly what President trump will do as he returns to the White House with an overwhelming mandate from the American people.” in a social media post, the president-elect himself called the pardon “such an abuse and miscarriage of Justice.” does the Pardon given by Joe to Hunter include the J-6 Hostages, who have now been imprisoned for years?” trump asked. He was referring to those convicted in the violent Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the Us Capitol by his supporters aiming to overturn the 2020 presidential election result.
Biden and his spokespeople had repeatedly and flatly ruled out the president granting his son a pardon. in June, Biden told reporters as his son faced trial in the delaware gun case, “i abide by the jury decision. i will do that and i will not pardon him.” in July, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters: “it’s still a no. it will be a no. it is a no. And
i don’t have anything else to add. Will he pardon his son? no.” in november, days after trump’s victory, Jean-Pierre reiterated that message: “Our answer stands, which is no.” neither Biden nor the White House explained the shift in the president’s thinking, and it was his broken promise as much as his act of clemency that was a lightning rod. He is hardly the first president to pardon a family member or friend entangled in political dealings. Bill Clinton pardoned his brother roger for drug charges after he had served his sentence roughly a decade earlier. in his final weeks in office, trump pardoned Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in law, Jared Kushner, as well as multiple allies convicted in special counsel robert Mueller’s russia investigation. Yet Biden held himself up as placing his respect for the American judicial system and rule of law over his own personal concerns — trying to draw a deliberate contrast with trump, who tested the bounds of his authority like few predecessors. inside the White House,
the timing of the pardon was surprising to some who believed Biden would put it off as long as possible, according to three people familiar with the matter who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity to discuss the matter. it came just after Biden spent extended time over the past week with Hunter and other family members on nantucket in Massachusetts, a family tradition for thanksgiving. “i believe in the justice system, but as i have wrestled with this, i also believe raw politics has infected this process and it led to a miscarriage of justice – and once i made this decision this weekend, there was no sense in delaying it further,” Biden said in a statement announcing the pardon. some in the administration have privately expressed anguish that the substance of Biden’s statement, including his claim of an unfair politicallytinged prosecution of his son resembled complaints trump — who faced nowabandoned indictments over his role in trying to subvert the 2020 election — has been making for years about the Justice department.
Biden said the charges in his son’s cases “came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election.” Many legal experts agreed that the charges against the younger Biden were somewhat unusual, but the facts of the offenses were hardly in dispute, as Hunter wrote about his gun purchase while addicted to illegal drugs in his memoir and ultimately pleaded guilty to the tax charges. the pardon too was unusual, coming before Hunter Biden was even sentenced and covering not just the gun and tax offenses against his son, but also anything else he might have done going back to the start of 2014. it’s a move that could limit the ability of the trump Justice department to investigate the younger Biden’s unsavoury foreign business dealings, or to find new ground on which to bring criminal charges related to that time period. Biden, in his statement, asked for consideration: “i hope Americans will understand why a father and a President would come to this decision.”
Landmark climate change case opens at the top UN court as island nations fear rising seas
THE HAGUE Associated Press
tHe top United nations court took up the largest case in its history on Monday, hearing the plight of several small island nations helpless in combating the devastating impact of climate change that they feel endangers their very survival. they demand that major polluting nations be held to account.
After years of lobbying by island nations who fear they could simply disappear under rising sea waters, the Un General Assembly asked the international Court of Justice last year for an opinion on “the obligations of states in respect of climate change.”
“the stakes could not be higher. the survival of my people and so many others is on the line,” said Arnold Kiel Loughman, attorneygeneral of the Vanuatu archipelago nation.
“As the principal legal officer of my country, i have come before this court because domestic legal remedies are unable to address a crisis of the scope and magnitude,” he said during the opening session of two weeks of hearings.
states have obligations ... to act with due diligence, to prevent significant harm to the environment, to prevent, to reduce the emissions and provide support to countries like mine to protect the human rights of present and future generations,” he said.
Any decision by the court would be non-binding advice and couldn’t directly force wealthy nations into
action to help struggling countries. Yet it would be more than just a powerful symbol since it could be the basis for other legal actions, including domestic lawsuits. in the decade up to 2023, sea levels have risen by a global average of around 4.3 centimetres (1.7 inches), with parts of the Pacific rising higher still. the world has also warmed 1.3 degrees Celsius (2.3 Fahrenheit) since preindustrial times because of the burning of fossil fuels.
Vanuatu is one of a group of small states pushing for international legal
intervention in the climate crisis but it affects many more island nations in the south Pacific.
Cynthia Houniuhi, the head of the Pacific island students Fighting Climate Change that initiated the case, said climate change was undermining “the sacred contract” between generations.
“Without our land, our bodies and memories are severed from the fundamental relationship that define who we are. those who stand to lose are the future generations. their future is uncertain, reliant upon the
decision making of a handful of large emitting states., she told the court, referring to China, india and the United states.
Joie Chowdhury, senior attorney at the Center for international environmental Law, said that the conduct of major polluters responsible for the climate crisis and its catastrophic consequences is unlawful under multiple sources of international law.
Vanuatu’s climate change envoy ralph regenvanu told the court that since 1990, emissions have increased by over 50%,
reaching an all time high in 2023. He added that “a handful of readily identifiable states have produced the vast majority of historic and current greenhouse gas emissions. Yet other countries, including my own, are suffering the brunt of the consequences.” the Hague-based court will hear from 99 countries and more than a dozen intergovernmental organizations over two weeks. it’s the largest lineup in the institution’s nearly 80-year history. Last month at the United nations’ annual climate meeting, countries cobbled
together an agreement on how rich countries can support poor countries in the face of climate disasters. Wealthy countries have agreed to pool together at least $300 billion a year by 2035 but the total is short of the $1.3 trillion that experts, and threatened nations, said is needed.
“For our generation and for the Pacific islands, the climate crisis is an existential threat. it is a matter of survival, and the world’s biggest economies are not taking this crisis seriously. We need the iCJ to protect the rights of people at the front lines,” said Vishal Prasad, of Pacific islands students Fighting Climate Change. Fifteen judges from around the world will seek to answer two questions: What are countries obliged to do under international law to protect the climate and environment from human-caused greenhouse gas emissions? And what are the legal consequences for governments where their acts, or lack of action, have significantly harmed the climate and environment?
the second question makes particular reference to “small island developing states” likely to be hardest hit by climate change and to “members of “the present and future generations affected by the adverse effects of climate change.” the judges were even briefed on the science behind rising global temperatures by the Un’s climate change body, the intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, ahead of the hearings.
Activists put up a billboard outside the International Court of Justice, in The Hague, Netherlands, as it opens hearings into what countries worldwide are legally required to do to combat climate change and help vulnerable nations fight its impact, on Monday.
Photo: Peter Dejong/AP
PresiDent Joe Biden speaks on the South Lawn of the White House during a ceremony to commemorate World AIDS Day with survivors, their families and advocates, Sunday in Washington.
Photo: Manuel Balce ceneta/AP
ATLANTIS UNVEILS FOUR NEW PICKLEBALL COURTS
FALL’s balmy temperatures and sunshine provided a perfect backdrop for the recent debut of four new pickleball courts at the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island.
The addition of the new courts brings Atlantis’ total pickleball court count to six and highlights the effort by Bahamian hotels and resorts to satisfy growing demand from tourists and locals alike regarding facilities for the sport.
Pickleball is a hybrid paddle game that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong.
Appropriate for players of all ages and skill levels, it has become the fastest growing sport in the US over the past several years.
Avid pickleball players in The Bahamas have joined forces to establish the Bahamas Pickleball Federation, the main resource for all things pickleball in the country, from lessons to competitive play.
And Atlantis was more than willing to host the group recently for a tournament on the new courts.
“It was an absolute pleasure to host at our facility the first formal federation event as a non-profit organisation,” said PJ Major, the director of Atlantis’ Tennis and Pickleball Center.
“We’re excited about the opportunities our newly renovated centre will bring and look forward to collaborating with the federation to create even more engaging experiences for both our international and local pickleball communities.”
In October, 13 members of the various associations within the federation participated in Pickleball World Cup 2024 in Lima, Peru.
The event attracted players from more than 30 different countries and earned The Bahamas some recognition on the international stage when Sierra Donaldson and Kevaughn Ferguson won the bronze
top winners in the Open category for the tournament, while the US (gold), New Zealand (silver) and
Puerto Rico (gold) took the honours in the Senior category.
According to a press release, the overall experience and quality of play has proven invaluable for the federation.
“The group has already begun preparing for the inaugural Caribbean Championships in the Cayman Islands in February 2025, and continues to spread the good word through its website (www.bahamaspickleballfederation. com) and ongoing local tournaments.
“Pickleball continues to enjoy heightened interest throughout The Bahamas, which has led to other new courts being built in Nassau, Eleuthera, Exuma and Abaco.
“The recent official designation the game received from the Bahamas Olympic Committee will likely boost its popularity even more,” according to the press statement.
Big Red Madness Day
ST Augustine’s College, still reeling from its success at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture’s National Awards Ceremony last month, hosted a Big Red Madness day on Saturday on its campus off Bernard Road and Prince Charles Drive.
The day, which was held in honour of legendary long-time former physical education teacher and coach John Todd (inset), brought the alumni back to the campus where they not only watched some of the present day athletes perform, but they also
16
longer than the traditional track events.
will be held on Saturday,
December 14, starting at 10am at the Grand Bahama Sports Complex. The meet will take the form of an odd distance meet with track club competing in non-traditional events and field competitors contesting events from shorter or longer approaches. Tons of giveaways will be given out to the spectators. For more information, persons are urged to contact 727-6826 or Fast Track Management for more information.
BAAA CHRISTMAS PARTY THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations has announced that their Christmas Party in the backyard will take place on Friday, December 20. The event will take place at Sealy’s Backyard in Sea Breeze Lane from 6pm. Prizes and surprises will be given out all night long.
got to compete against them.The day began with a 3-on-3 basketball tournament for under-15, under-18 and open ages. That was followed by the grade 12 games and it concluded with the alumni versus students softball game.According to Jason
ROAD RACE BBSF WALK/RUN
THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation is inviting the general public to participate in their Family Fun Run/Walk, scheduled for Saturday, January 11, starting at 6am from the Charles W Saunders High School, Jean Street.
The walk will leave Jean Street and head north to Bernard Road, west on Bernard Road to Soldier Road, south on Soldier Road to Prince Charles Drive and east on Prince Charles Drive to Jean Street.
The run will leave Jean Street and head south to Prince Charles Drive, east to Fox Hill Road, north to Bernard Road and west to Jean Street.
The categories include female and male 15-andunder, 20-and-under, 40-and-under, 60-and-under and over-60. There will also be a Pastors/Ministers/
Deacons’ division. Trophies will be presented to the overall winner, while the top three finishers in each group will get medals. Interested persons can contact Ann Thompson at 425-3557 or email ann837609@gmail.com or Brent Stubbs at 42-67265 or email stbbobo@gmail.com.
SOFTBALL
BBSF SOFTBALL
LEAGUE
THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation will hold its 2025 softball league, starting on Saturday, February 1 at the Charles W Saunders High School, Jean Street. The co-ed slow pitch league will allow each team up to a total of 15 players with the registration fee of $200. The deadline for team registration with rosters and team payment is Saturday, January 25, 2025. Interested persons can tournament director
Edwards, the athletic director at SAC, the students and alumni thoroughly enjoyed themselves and they were especially glad to interact with Todd. They noted that they can’t wait for next year’s event, which they intend to make bigger and better.
Thomas Sears at 424-2888 or email 242softball@gmail. com or Brent Stubbs at 4267265 or email stubbobs@ gmail.com
TRIATHLON ELECTION OF OFFICERS
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. Elections will also be live on Zoom, where 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 information about themselves to be sent out, you are more than welcome to. Please send nomination forms and information to secretary@ bahamastriathlon.org. 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).
in
mixed doubles pre-tournament play. Puerto Rico (gold), home team Peru
(silver), and Chinese Taipei (bronze) emerged as the
MEMBERS of the Bahamas Pickleball Federation at the Atlantis Tennis and Pickleball Center on Paradise Island.
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
RUGBY PLAYERS WANTED AS BUCK JOHNSON TOURNEY HITS WINTON
THE 11th annual Buck Johnson’s Rugby Tournament took place this past Saturday at Winton Rugby Centre.
Hosted by the Cuckoos Rugby Club, the yearly event featured a touch rugby tournament, as well as a cookout featuring excellent barbecue and jerk chicken and pork.
Multiple teams from around the island competed in a round robin event that concluded in an intense playoff.
Players from Buccaneers RFC, Baillou RFC, Cuckoos Rugby Club and Olde Boys made up six teams along with youth players from all over New Providence.
After lots of dynamic rugby and intense matches, Buccs faced Scrum and Coke in the first semi-final with Buccs edging out the win.
The Titans pulled out the win against OBI in the second semi-final leading to the last match of the day.
After a back and forth exchange of scores, Buccs scored a nice team try in the corner as the time expired to grasp the win. The day concluded with a
D’Angelo Swaby clobbers Jamaican Mason Brown
FROM PAGE 16
debut as a professional, albeit fighting as a cruiserweight. The 5-foot, 10-inch Swaby, who was much shorter than Brown who stood about 6-6, said he was invited to fight on the card by I-Fight Promotions, headed by Chris Joy. The show was held in conjunction with the Jamaican Boxing Federation.
“It was good to be back in the ring, although my natural weight is cruiserweight,” he said.
“I took the heavyweight fight because they couldn’t find any more cruiserweights in Jamaica.
“I took the fight, knowing that this would be my last fight as a heavyweight. But it was evident that the ring rust was there and I was
hoping that I could have gotten in some more work because I put in the training for the fight.”
Swaby, 35, is currently training in Rialto, California at the War Zone Boxing Club under the supervision of coach Jacob Flores.
“This brought me back on the road to go after the British Commonwealth title. That is my main goal
presentation to the Buccs as tournament winners.
The Bahamas Rugby men’s club season is just kicking into gear with some exciting matches upcoming,
By PAT GRAHAM AP Sports Writer
DENVER (AP) —
Ja’Quan McMillian returned an interception 44 yards for a game-sealing touchdown with 1:48 remaining, and the Denver Broncos spoiled career-best performances by Cleveland quarterback Jameis Winston and wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, beating the Browns 41-32 last night. Winston threw for a franchise-record 497 yards and four touchdowns, and Jeudy had nine catches for 235 yards — the most in NFL history by a receiver against his former team — and a TD.
Jeudy played his first four seasons with Denver after an offseason trade and was booed every time he caught
the ball. Winston’s electric night included three picks, two of which were returned for TDs. Nik Bonitto took one 71 yards to the house late in the second quarter. And he became the first NFL quarterback to throw for 400 or more yards with four or more TD passes and two pick-sixes. Bo Nix finished with 294 yards passing, including a gorgeous deep ball from his own end zone that Marvin Mims Jr. hauled in for a 93-yard touchdown. Nix also dished out two picks. The Broncos (8-5) enter their bye week in the seventh and final playoff spot. Denver has a 76% probability of making the postseason, according to NFL.com.
starting with the Cuckoos travelling to Freeport on December 14. All clubs are also encouraging anyone who is interested in playing
rugby to contact the Bahamas Rugby Union by emailing secretary@ bahamas.rugby. No prior experience is necessary, and everyone is welcome.
right now,” Swaby said. “I am trying to get on the contenders list for that by next year.”
Back home in The Bahamas to enjoy his success with his family and friends, Swaby said he will continue to prepare from here for his return to Jamaica to fight on his second card.
I-Fight Promotions, according to Swaby, is
expected to stage four more fights in Jamaica in 2025 in their bid to provide a platform for the Caribbean fighters to build their records.
So far, Swaby is the only Bahamian to compete, but he said it’s open to any and all boxers who are interested in participating.
“I’m really excited and humbled to have been chosen to fight on these shows,” said Swaby, who has been sponsored by Bahamasair. “I’m looking forward to the rest of the shows.”
Hopefully, Swaby said while he’s home for the Christmas holiday, he can encourage some more Bahamian pro boxers to join him in fighting on the shows in Jamaica next year.
RUGBY enthusiasts in the 11th annual Buck Johnson Rugby Tournament at Winton Rugby Centre on Saturday.
BAHAMIAN boxer D’Angelo Swaby comes out wearing his Bahamasair-sponsored t-shirt and cap with trainer Dale Reid, who worked in his corner.
D’Angelo Swaby faces off against his opponent from Jamaica.
record of 457 yards set by Josh McCown in 2015 against Baltimore. He
DENVER Broncos fullback Michael Burton, right, celebrates his 1-yard rushing touchdown with teammate tight end Nate Adkins during the first half of an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, last night in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)
CELTICS COOL DOWN HEAT AS PRITCHARD SCORES 25 OFF BENCH IN 108-89 VICTORY
BOSTON (AP) — Jaylen Brown scored 29 points, Jayson Tatum had 18 points and 11 rebounds and Payton Pritchard scored 25 off the bench last night as the Boston Celtics beat the Miami Heat 108-89.
Derrick White added 19 points as the defending NBA champions won for the eighth time in nine games.
Jaime Jaquez Jr. had 19 points and 10 rebounds and Tyler Herro scored 19 for Miami. Herro was 2 for 10 from 3-point range, and the Heat shot 23% from beyond the arc and 36% from the field.
Both teams were without key players for the second night of a back-to-back after losing on Sunday.
Miami played without Jimmy Butler, who has missed five of the first 19 games with a knee injury.
The Celtics were without Jrue Holiday, Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis. Miami scored the first seven
points and then went cold while the Celtics ran off 17 of the next 19 points to take the lead. Boston made it a double-digit lead early in the second quarter and went up by 20 in the third.
HAWKS 124, PELICANS 112
ATLANTA (AP) — Trae Young had 12 points and 15 assists for his 15th doubledouble of the season, and Atlanta beat skidding New Orleans for their fourth straight victory.
De’Andre Hunter scored a team-high 22 off the bench for the Hawks on his 27th birthday.
CJ McCollum led New Orleans with 29 points, one shy of his season high.
Dejounte Murray, greeted by cheers in his first return to Atlanta since being traded by the Hawks last offseason, finished with seven points and 10 assists. The depleted Pelicans (4-18) have lost nine in a row overall, and 11 of 12
on the road this season. The team’s long injury list includes star players Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
BULLS 128, NETS 102
CHICAGO (AP) — Josh Giddey had 20 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists, helping Chicago beat Brooklyn.
It was Giddey’s first triple-double of the season and No. 12 for his career.
Nikola Vucevic had 21 points and 10 rebounds for Chicago, which had lost three of four.
Matas Buzelis scored 20 points on 7-for-10 shooting, and Zach LaVine finished with 18.
Brooklyn lost its third consecutive game — all in the last four days. Dariq Whitehead scored 18 points for the Nets, and Dennis Schroder had 16 points and 10 assists.
Brooklyn played without forward Cam Johnson because of a sprained left
ankle — part of a long list of injuries for the Nets. He scored 26 points in Sunday’s 100-92 loss to Orlando.
Chicago guard Coby White also was sidelined by a sprained left ankle.
The Bulls started to pull away in the third quarter, outscoring the Nets 36-22 in the period.
Buzelis’ basket off a pass from Giddey made it 92-72 going into the fourth.
TIMBERWOLVES 109, LAKERS 80
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Julius Randle scored 18 points and Rudy Gobert had 17 points and 12 rebounds to lead Minnesota past Los Angeles.
Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker each scored 15 for the Wolves (10-10), who limited the Lakers to their lowest point total since a 122-73 loss at Dallas in 2017, according to Sportradar.
Anthony Edwards had only eight points on 3-for13 shooting for the Wolves,
but his Olympic teammates LeBron James and Anthony Davis were just as quiet for the Lakers (12-9).
James, who has missed 19 straight 3-pointers, had 10 points on 4-for-16 shooting. Davis had 12 points and 11 rebounds. D’Angelo Russell scored 20 in his
beat 110-103 in the season opener behind 36 points and 16 rebounds from Davis.
TCU, DUKE CLIMB INTO TOP 10, NOTRE DAME DROPS IN WOMEN’S AP TOP 25, UCLA AND UCONN REMAIN 1-2
By DOUG FEINBERG AP Basketball Writer
TCU has grabbed its best ranking ever in The Associated Press Top 25 women’s basketball poll yesterday after a convincing win over Notre Dame as the rankings got a shakeup following a holiday tournament week marked by key losses.
The Horned Frogs climbed eight spots to No. 9, the first time the school has ever been in the top 10. The team’s best previous ranking was 13th in 2004.
The Fighting Irish, who were third last week, fell seven spots to 10th after losses to TCU and Utah in the Cayman Islands.
UCLA remained No. 1 with UConn right behind them. The Bruins received 25 first-place votes from a national media panel while the Huskies garnered the other seven.
The Bruins won three games in three days in Hawaii over the Thanksgiving weekend. The Huskies had two wins in a holiday tournament in the Bahamas.
South Carolina, Texas and LSU follow UConn in the poll. The Tigers leaped past USC to move up to fifth. The Trojans, Maryland, Duke, TCU and Notre Dame round out the top 10. The Blue Devils moved up five spots to eighth after beating then-No. 9 Kansas State and No. 8 Oklahoma in a tournament in Las Vegas. It’s the highest ranking for Duke in a decade, matching the No. 8 ranking on Nov. 24, 2014. The Wildcats fell to 13th and the Sooners 11th.
Moving in Both Michigan and Michigan State entered the poll for the first time this season. The last time the two schools both were ranked was January 4, 2021. That was the No. 24 Spartans’ last appearance in the Top 25.
The 23rd-ranked Wolverines were in the final poll of the 2023 season.
Moving out
N.C. State dropped out of the poll for the first time in 24 weeks, which had been the 10th longest active streak. The Wolfpack are 4-3
in the SEC/ACC challenge. Oregon also fell out.
Rising Tide Alabama moved up four spots to No. 19, the school’s best ranking in 25 years. The Crimson Tide improved to 9-0 with a 98-49 win yesterday over Georgia State, the team’s best start since going 9-0 to open the 2000-01 season. Conference breakdown
The Big Ten has nine teams ranked in the poll, most of any conference. The SEC is second with seven. The ACC and Big 12 each have four Top 25 teams and the Big East has one.
Game of the week No. 4 Texas at No. 10 Notre Dame, Thursday. The SEC/ACC challenge brings a lot of great matchups, including the Longhorns visiting the Irish.
The game features two of the best duos in the game with Texas stars Madison Booker and Rori Harmon playing against Notre Dame’s Olivia Miles and Hannah Hidalgo.
The Irish are looking to snap a two-game skid.
By AARON BEARD AP Basketball Writer
KANSAS held off Auburn for the No. 1 ranking in The Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball poll yesterday as Southeastern Conference teams grabbed three of the top four spots and two-time reigning national champion UConn nearly fell out entirely after an 0-3 week at the Maui Invitational.
The Jayhawks earned 35 of 61 first-place votes in the poll, while the Tigers got the remaining 26 and climbed two spots to No. 2 after wining the Maui title. The Huskies fell all the way to No. 25, barely avoiding becoming only the second team to go from No. 2 to unranked in a week in nearly four decades.
It was part of a turbulent week with holiday-week tournaments, leading to six new teams entering the rankings headlined by No. 12 Oregon and No. 16 Memphis. Kansas (7-0), which beat Duke last week, had increased its margin on the No. 2-ranked team each week since the preseason poll and had a 107-point margin on the Huskies last week. But with the Tigers — ranked No. 1 in KenPom’s metrics — beating ranked Iowa State and North Carolina teams in the Maui title run, that margin is just nine points this week. Auburn was joined by fellow SEC schools No.
AUBURN centre Dylan Cardwell (44) celebrates during a timeout against Memphis with guard Miles Kelly (13) during the first half an NCAA college basketball game for the Maui Invitational championship on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP
3 Tennessee and No. 4 Kentucky, with each team climbing four spots. Marquette was next at No. 5, followed by Iowa State, Gonzaga, Purdue, Duke and Alabama to round out the top 10.
UConn’s slide The Huskies (5-3) had won 17 straight games entering the Maui Invitational, but things quickly went awry with an opening-round overtime loss to Memphis in a game that had coach Dan Hurley fuming about officiating. UConn lost the next day to Colorado, then lost to Dayton in the seventh-place game to finish last in the prestigious tournament. It was reminiscent of No. 2 Arizona’s 0-3 crash at the Battle 4
Atlantis in the Bahamas in November 2017. But the Huskies avoided the same poll fate as the Wildcats, who became the first team to go from No. 2 to unranked in a week since Louisville in November 1986 after its tournament flop in the Great Alaska Shootout.
Rising and falling While Oregon jumped 26 spots to enter the AP Top 25, Marquette, Purdue and No. 13 Florida had the week’s biggest climbs within the poll, each rising five spots. No. 11 Wisconsin joined Tennessee and Kentucky with four-spot jumps as 10 teams rose from their spots in last week’s poll.
In all, seven teams fell from last week’s poll. While UConn’s tumble stood out,
)
No. 17 Houston fell 11 spots after losses to Alabama and now-No. 24 San Diego State in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas.
North Carolina also had a big fall, sliding eight spots to No. 20 after losses to Auburn and Michigan State in Maui. Gonzaga tumbled four spots to seventh after losing its Battle 4 Atlantis opener to West Virginia.
Status quo No. 23 Mississippi joined Kansas as the only teams to hold their position from last week.
Welcome Oregon led the week’s six new teams after beating Alabama to win the Players Era Festival championship, followed by Memphis after finishing second to Auburn in Maui.
No. 18 Pittsburgh, No. 19 Illinois, No. 21 Oklahoma – which won the Atlantis title – and San Diego State were the week’s other new additions.
Farewell (for now) Indiana (No. 14), Arkansas (No. 19), Creighton (No. 21), Xavier (No. 22),
Arizona (No. 24) and Mississippi State (No. 25) fell out of the poll.
The SEC led all conferences with eight ranked teams, followed by the Big 12 with five.
The Big Ten and Atlantic Coast Conference each had three ranked teams, while
return from illness and to the starting lineup.
After beating Utah 105104 on Sunday, the Lakers travelled another time zone east to face a team they
BOSTON Celtics guard Payton Pritchard (11) takes a 3-point shot over Miami Heat guard Dru Smith, left, during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, in Boston.
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Photo/Lindsey Wasson
NOTRE Dame guard Hannah Hidalgo (3) dribbles against Southern California center Rayah Marshall (13) and guard Malia Samuels (10) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024 in Los Angeles.
(AP Photo/Eric Thayer)
Junkanoo Jingle to Bay 5K - when 250-plus Santas rush down Bay Street
WHEN 250-plus Santas rush down Bay Street, you know Christmas is here soon.
In its second year, Junkanoo Jingle to Bay (JJtoBay) 5K, the signature holiday race for a good cause will take place on Saturday, December 14 at Arawak Cay.
This year, part proceeds will support the Bahamas National Children’s Choir and race organisers are excited for a festive cultural celebration.
“We are once again delighted to host JJtoBay and to see the community come out in full swing to kick off the festive holiday season and help us raise funds for children who deserve our support,” says certified race manager and JJtoBay co-race director Marcel Major.
JJtoBay5K increases health and fitness, builds community and fosters cultural pride. Friends, colleagues, civic organisations
and pets will run, walk, skate, roll and rush alongside Junkanoo rhythms and festive surprises streetside.
Corporate support remains a key element in the success of this annual holiday race through generous sponsorship and in-kind donations.
Boosting sports tourism and creating new attractions for tourists seeking unique cultural experiences, Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board (NPIPB) joined this year as a conch shell sponsor.
“NPIPB is pleased to support the Junkanoo Jingle to Bay 5K as it combines several of Nassau and Paradise Island’s greatest strengths - our vibrant cultural traditions, warm community spirit, and incredible ocean views.
“Events like this not only bring us together as a people but also appeal to visitors seeking authentic moments and a deeper connection with our
destination. We’re proud to play a role in making this unique festive celebration a success while supporting such a meaningful cause,” said Joy Jibrilu, chief
executive officer, Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board.
Additionally, the race will host 30-plus children from a local group home, allowing
them and their chaperones to experience the Christmas race from start to finish, ending in Santas Race Village with toys donated from local partners. “We invite
MINISTER BOWLEG OPENS THANKSGIVING BASKETBALL CLASSIC ON GRAND BAHAMA
more companies to become sponsors and form teams as we have a heart for the children and want their Christmas to be memorable. With the support of the community, we can accomplish so much and give back as the Lord would want us all to do,” said Marcel on behalf of the JJtoBay leadership team, including race co-directors Theresa Major and Kandice Weech.
The race will take place in less than two weeks with group discounts available for 10 or more persons at $40 per person which includes a lightweight Santa suit and finishers’ medal. Registering online is quick and easy at www. fourseasonsracemanagement.com with further instructions provided to all registered participants for race package pick up days. There will be no race morning registration, so enthusiastic soon to be Santas are encouraged to register early.
Photos: Andrew Miller/BIS
BOOSTING
in The Bahamas -
Jingle To Bay is open to
event for dogs on leashes.
Devere’s change of path
DEVERE Tinker has worked in the insurance industry for the past 21 years, but he is preparing for a second career in plumbing at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI).
The BTVI Story
“I’ve always wanted to own a business. I already have some knowledge of plumbing. I like it. I just want to be certified. I’m excited about the switch. I have a plan. I’m not going into this blindly,” said the 46-year-old.
Devere knows what it is to be on construction sites. Though he is an insurance professional, he is also an electrician, who has installed dishwashers and tubs.
Devere said delving into the intricacies of plumbing has been a good experience.
“I love this class. It’s hands-on. Mr Maurice Cash is awesome. He knows his stuff. He has the knowledge and knows how to explain it in detail. I love his teaching,” said Devere.
In the Plumbing I class, students learn about pipes and fittings. Some of the skills taught include the installation of water heaters, conducting repairs, unclogging drains and trouble shooting water heaters and pumps.
Like Devere, Jada Silvera is learn-
ing a new discipline. Jada has a degree in Accounting and is working in the Finance department of a large company.
“I want a trade. I’m not a hair and nails type girl. I want to think outside of the
box. I became interested in construction when my friend was building his apartments. I would go on the site with him,” said the Construction Technology student.
The 24-year-old was excited to participate in a BTVI project connecting pipes from the sewer to a new security booth currently being built on the main campus.
“We had to dig the trench, cut the pipe and install it. I like that hands-on experience,” she stated.
Maurice Cash has taught at BTVI for 33 years. He said his love for what he does keeps him returning each semester.
“Not a day I wake up and feel I didn’t make a good decision. My students always get 110 from me. Each class, I want students to leave learning something new,” he stated. Now a master plumber, Mr Cash graduated in 1980 from the Industrial Training College (ITC), which evolved into BTVI. He took classes in the same workshop he is now training students.
“This is where I was burped, as such.
Saluting the young achievers
By FAY SIMMONS
Tribune Education Reporter
jsimmons@tribunemedia.net
BTC HAS inaugurated its annual Junior Achievement (JA) programme for 2024 in New Providence, with a focus on the theme, “Inspire, Prepare, and Succeed.”
This year, the achievers have adopted the name BTC FLYE (Fearless, Limitless, Young Entrepreneurs), representing their ambitious aspirations.
The group has also elected an executive team to lead the programme. Nyah Seymour, a 12th
grade student and thirdyear BTC JA achiever, was chosen as this year’s president. In discussing her vision for the programme, Nyah said: “My vision for BTC FLYE is to empower every participant to grow beyond their initial capabilities. “Whether it is boosting your confidence, expanding your knowledge, or developing your communication skills, I want each achiever to experience significant personal growth. I am committed to uplifting and supporting all achievers and ensuring that they each can flourish and reach their full
potential during our time together.”
The group has already begun their journey with success, hosting their first fundraiser — a cake sale at BTC’s Mall at Marathon and Southwest Plaza locations.
Indira Collie, BTC’s executive senior manager of communications, said: “Junior Achievement serves as a vital launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge. We are happy to bring this transformative programme once again to students in New Providence.”
I then went on to excel and came back to share. Too many people take their trade to the grave with them. It gives me joy to share. I want my legacy to be where former students say, ‘Mr Cash taught me this’,” said the plumber of 43 years.
“The BTVI Story” is a monthly column which
TEACHING THE NEXT GENERATION HOW TO GOVERN THE NATION
THE Department of Local Government held its Local Government Junior Council 2024/25 Induction Training and Certificate Presentation in Grand Bahama.
Following the swearing-in of the newly elected Local Government Junior Councillors on November 12, students from participating schools across the archipelago have embarked on a transformative journey.
For the students on Grand Bahama, this induction training marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in their lives. It provides them with the opportunity to step into roles that will not only
impact their communities but also allow them to grow and develop valuable leadership skills.
Marcus Cooper, chief
councillor for the East Grand Bahama District, emphasised the importance of the programme, stating, “The Local Government
Junior Council Programme is more than just a platform; it is an opportunity to learn, an opportunity to grow, and an opportunity to make a
difference in our respective schools.”
The training session provided students with valuable knowledge through various presentations and participatory exercises covering topics such as leadership, the basics of the “Savings Bank” at the Post Office, and Local Government accounts and bookkeeping.
These workshops were designed to give students a deeper understanding of local governance, its purposes, and its benefits. The goal was to equip them with the skills and knowledge that could potentially lead them to become Local Government Councillors in the future.
In his closing remarks, Mr Cooper encouraged the students to seize the opportunity and make the most of their experience:
“I encourage each of you to seize the moment. The lessons learned, connections made, and values instilled here will serve as the foundation for your leadership in the years to come.”
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to all Junior Councillors from the nine participating schools, marking a significant milestone in their journey as future leaders and change-makers in their communities.
highlights how the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) is ‘Charting the Course for Success’ for learners in a multiplicity of trades. The column is produced by BTVI’s Office of Public Relations.
BTVI plumbing instructor Maurice Cash and student Peter Bethell prepping for installation of a water heater.
Photo: BTVI
TOP row, from left, executive team members Quincy Lockhart Jr, Amanda Delhoome, K’Lyne Lightbourne, bottom, Kailynn Rolle, Le’Bron Aritis, and Nyah Seymour.
SECTION E
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2024
D’Angelo Swaby beats
the ‘Brown’ off Mason
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
After a four-year hiatus, D’Angelo Swaby shook off the ring rust by stopping his Jamaican heavyweight opponent Mason Brown in the third round on Saturday night in Kingston, Jamaica.
Originally Swaby was scheduled to fight Omar Edmunds but, after he pulled off, Brown was a late replacement. After getting knocked around for the first two rounds by Swaby, Brown conceded in the third.
“I think I landed too many blows and he started to bleed,” Swaby pointed out. “During the fight, we had a lot of exchanges, but I came up with the shot to his body and he turned away from me with his back turned and he was saying ‘no with his gloves,’ so the referee stopped the fight.”
The victory pushed Swaby’s record to 2-2 as he got back into the ring to redeem himself from his previous two losses after he made his successful
Stops Jamaican via TKO in 3rd round
BFA: Mingoes, Dynamos, Cavalier in win column
THE Bahamas Football Association continued its regular season action for the men’s division on Sunday at the Roscoe AL Davies Soccer Center with some exciting matches played.
Here’s a look at the results posted:
UB Mingoes vs Western Warriors Gladiators
After a rough start to the season and undergoing significant changes to their roster, the Mingoes are
back in the hunt to return to the top of the table. After a humbling defeat last week at the hands of table leaders Dynamos FC, the Mingoes came out determined to record a victory and, with a strong defence, they did just that with a 4-1 victory over the Western Warriors Gladiator squad. Behind leading scorer Marlon Barnes and Ronaldo Green, the Mingoes are headed in the right direction.
Inter Nassau - BLS vs Dynamos Football Club Going into the Christmas break, the current table toppers (Dynamos FC) are in a tight battle with the Western Warriors Titans.
With no room for slip ups, the Dynamos ran into a tough Inter BLS team on Sunday.
The game was tied 0-0 at halftime.
After the half, whatever instructions were given by head coach Dion Peterson,
the Dynamos - behind striker Brandon Adderley - dismantled the BLS squad at the final whistle, 5-0 behind four goals from Adderley and an extra goal from Valentino Hanna. Adderley currently leads the league in scoring with 11 goals before the holiday break.
Cavalier FC vs Baha Jr
With their squad coming together after some key injuries, Cavalier is looking up from the cellar this morning after they defeated the last place team Baha Jr to the score of 4-1.
The Reds got a hat trick from Alexio Munnings and a goal from Ahmad Adderley. Mercceus Bendjy scored the lone goal for Baha Jr. Western Warriors Titans vs Renegades FC
The feature match of the night between the Western Warriors Titans and contenders Renegades FC did not live up to the billing.
The Titans jumped on the Renegades early and often and, by halftime, the score was a dominant 5-0.
They got a hat-trick from Jonny Tinnus and goals from E. Roosie and M. Benji to seal the deal. Nahum Johnson from Renegades scored in the 49th minute to keep the score respectful.
Action returns to the Roscoe AL Davies Soccer Center on Sunday with exciting matches:
MATCH SCHEDULE
7pm - Inter Nassau 17 vs Western Warriors Titans 7:15pm - Dynamos FC vs Cavalier FC
Todd, Page 11
THE Sadie Curtis and Sandilands Primary Schools emerged as the New Providence Public Primary Schools Sports Association’s baseball and softball tournaments for boys and girls respectively. The two events were concluded last week at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex. In the boys’ baseball tournament, Sadie Curtis captured the title over Eva Hilton. CW Sawyer got third place with Garvin Tynes coming in fourth place. It was the fourth year in a row that Sadie Curtis won the title and coach Francheska McBride said on their return to the school campus on Charles W Saunders Highway, where they were greeted by fellow students, administration and staff, they did awesome.
“We went undefeated in this tournament and I’m extremely proud of them,” McBride said. “All of their hard work paid off.”
The girls’ softball tournament saw Sandilands capture the title over Eva Hilton. CW Sawyer got third place again, while Garvin Tynes finished fourth as well.
ANDROS HEAT ROAD RACE THE Andros Heats has announced that its fifth annual road race will take place on Saturday, December 14. The top three finishers will be awarded trophies. Fourth place finishers will be awarded medals. Interested persons are urged to contact coach Patty Rolle at 323-8801. NPVA VOLLEYBALL THE New Providence Volleyball Association will continue its regular season action on Friday at the DW Davis Gymnasium this week. Here’s a look at the schedule: Friday - 7:30pm - Panthers vs Lady Techs (L) 9pm - Avengers vs Technicians (M)
Sunday 3:30pm - Lady Techs vs Set-sy Poppers (L() 5pm - Technicisns A vs Technicians B (M) BAHAMAS FEEDING NETWORK TEE-OFF FOR HUNGER THE Bahamas Feeding Network is scheduled to host its 3rd annual Tee-off For Hunger on December 9 with Fidelity as its title sponsor. 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.
AND THE WINNER IS: Bahamian boxer D’Angelo Swaby has his hands raised in victory after his fight in Jamaica.