12092024 NEWS AND SPORT

The Tribune house & hoMe

GOVT: BOTH VALLEY GROUPS TO COMPETE

The two factions will rush in the category A division

By RASHAD ROLLE and JADE RUSSELL Tribune New Reporters

THE Ministry of Youth Sports and Culture announced last night that both Valley Boys groups will participate in the Category A division of the upcoming parades, the latest twist in a drama that has captured headlines throughout 2024. The news, which came hours after a top Aliv official told The Tribune that ticket sales are outpacing last year’s sales, adds another dimension to this year’s competition as the two factions get an opportunity to compete against each in front of a live

‘Lack of water’ c L aimed as severa L homes burn down

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunmedia.net

A CLOUD of sadness and gratitude lingers over several families in Harbour Island that lost their homes to a blaze on Thursday night, including 84-yearold Vincent Cleare, Sr, who watched his home of more than 50 years burn to the ground.

Frustrated residents argued that the fire could have been contained if the island had a reliable water supply. Water shortages have been a recurring issue on the island for years. Mr Cleare, Sr, said he had gone to his kitchen for a glass of water when he

COCAINE worth over $15m was seized by police after a plane crash landed in Spring Point, Acklins, early Friday morning. The drugs are seen here after being transferred to the capital.

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

POLICE seized over $15.3m worth of suspected dangerous drugs following an aircraft crash in Spring Point, Acklins, early Friday morning.

Seven men — five Bahamian nationals and two Colombians — have been arrested in connection with the haul.

The operation began shortly before 2am when officers responded to reports of an aircraft attempting to land on the western section of the Spring Point airport runway. Upon arrival, they discovered a white and blue

$3.4m damages claim for ‘breach’ after boating fee portal shutdown

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

A FURIOUS legal battle has erupted over a Bahamian payment provider’s $3.473m damages claim for “unlawful political and/or improper patronage” interference that led to the online boating fees portal’s closure. Omni Financial Group and its two affiliates have teamed with Peter Maury,

the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) president, to launch a “breach of contract” and defamation claim against the government over the alleged “irreparable damage” suffered from Ministry of Finance assertions that fees collected from foreign boaters via the SeaZPass portal were not being paid to the Public Treasury as required.

35 years jaiL for moL esting grandaughter over five years

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 62-YEAR-OLD man smirked as he exited court on Friday after being sentenced to 35 years in prison for molesting his granddaughter from May 2019 to January 2024. The defendant, whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the victim, was found guilty of 22 counts of incest and one count of indecent assault on October 30. Throughout sentencing proceedings, the convict had his head downcast and

ASSOC. of Bahamas Marinas president, Peter Maury.

Photo: Nikia Charlton

‘Lack of water’ claimed as several homes burn down

noticed smoke hanging low in the air. Although there were no visible flames, the kitchen was filled with smoke. When he tried to get water from the pump to remove the smoke, he noticed the water supply was off.

The smoke quickly grew thick, forcing him to run outside, unable to grab any personal belongings. He alerted a local government worker in a passing golf cart to call the fire engine.

The fire reportedly started around 10pm in Mr Cleare’s home on Duke Street and continued burning up to 2am. It spread to neighbouring buildings, including his nephew’s twostory rental, a restaurant, and a local church.

Mr Cleare’s son, Vincent Cleare, Jr, was at home when the fire broke out. He rushed to the sea for buckets of water, but the low tide made it difficult to fill them.

Videos shared with The Tribune showed the fire rapidly consuming the wooden buildings. A firefighter tried to extinguish the flames with a hose, but low water pressure made it nearly impossible. Residents also joined the effort, rushing to bring water in buckets.

In the end, the fire left only charred remains of the homes, their walls reduced to ash. However, no one was injured.

“I lost everything; I couldn’t save anything. The whole house burned down,”

Mr Cleare, Sr, said.

In February last year, Mr Cleare, Sr, lost his wife to kidney problems. He said that, along with the house, precious photos of his wife, childhood memories

of his children, and other irreplaceable items were destroyed. His 59-year-old home was not insured. He hopes to rebuild, making it a place of comfort for his children and grandchildren once again.

Though devastated by the loss of his home, Mr Cleare, Sr, gave thanks to God for protecting him from the flames. He said life itself is more valuable than material possessions.

His daughter, Violet Atkinson, is taking care of her father at her home while the family tries to cope with the shocking incident.

“Down home was the place we always went for Christmas, birthdays, and all of that. It’s going to be missed,” Mrs Atkinson said.

She also voiced frustration over the lack of fire equipment on the island. She called for proper fire engine maintenance to ensure it is ready in emergencies. She noted that there were no fire hydrants near her father’s home when the fire occurred, making it more difficult to put out.

North Eleuthera District Administrator Gwendolyn Patram said three families and a restaurant had been severely affected. The restaurant’s walls were still standing, but the fire had gutted the interior. Christopher Cleare’s twostory building, next to his uncle’s home, was also damaged. Mr Cleare tried to extinguish the flames from his upstairs window, but the low water pressure made it difficult. The fire also affected his tenants, including a family with a newborn and a six-year-old child. The structure of his home remained standing, but the

upper level was completely destroyed, and the lower level was badly damaged.

Ms Patram and North Eleuthera MP Sylvanus Petty visited the scene on the night of the fire to offer assistance. The Ministry of Social Services has since provided temporary housing, food vouchers, and funds for clothing to those affected. The family with the newborn is currently using temporary housing.

Ms Patram confirmed the water supply had been off throughout most of Thursday. She said the water had only been restored about 30 minutes before the fire started. She also said that while the chief counsellor had reported the water supply wasn’t the issue, the fire had spread quickly due to the wooden structures.

However, Ms Patram expressed concern over the fire equipment on the island. She noted that she met with local firefighters last week to assess fire hydrant placement and make them more accessible. She also said that the firefighting efforts could have been more effective if the fire truck had contained more water. Despite the challenges, she praised the

firefighters for their efforts.

Additionally, the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) said it responded promptly to support firefighting efforts by optimising water pressure. In a statement, WSC said pressure across the island was immediately increased to 80 psi to ensure adequate supply for the response. WSC further noted that initial firefighting efforts appeared to rely on a nonWSC water source, adding it may have impacted the water flow during the critical early stage.

“We recognise the concern and distress this event has caused to the affected residents and the community at large and want to assure the public that we responded swiftly to support the firefighting efforts,” the WSC said.

“The Water and Sewerage Corporation continues to prioritise public safety and remains dedicated to providing reliable water services across the island. We will also engage with the relevant stakeholders to evaluate processes and identify any opportunities for improvement in emergency response coordination.”

ORG: True independence and impartiality key to investigating law officers

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

MATT Aubry, execu-

tive director of the Organization for Responsible Governance (ORG), said independence and accountability are essential for a proposed Independent Commission of Investigations to succeed in holding law enforcement officers accountable.

He stressed that the commission must operate free from government or law enforcement interference to ensure effective investigations into misconduct, corruption, and abuse of power within law enforcement.

“The components that you want to see in a piece of legislation like this are true independence and impartiality,” Mr Aubry said. “The commission must be free from interference by any government or law enforcement entity, with a clear separation from the Ministry of National Security or the police chain of command. This is crucial to avoid conflicts of interest and reinforce public trust.”

The bill grants the commission broad powers,

including the ability to inspect documents, seize evidence, interview witnesses, and conduct hearings. Commissioners will be appointed by the Governor-General after consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. They will serve five-year terms, with the possibility of reappointment. The bill also imposes penalties for obstructing the commission’s work, with offenders facing fines of up to $5,000, two years in prison, or both.

While Mr Aubry welcomed the bill’s intent to create an independent body to investigate serious allegations, he suggested it should be part of a broader strategy to combat corruption. He highlighted the importance of long-term measures such as public education, digitisation of services, and understanding the conditions that lead to misconduct.

“There could be an opportunity to expand or revert back to the Integrity Commission Act, which was tabled in the last administration and referenced in this current administration’s Blueprint for Change,” he said.

“An independent body

can handle corruption allegations, but we should also look at the conditions that enable corruption and explore ways to reduce opportunities for misconduct. This includes public education, digitisation, and teaching youth the importance of integrity.”

Mr Aubry also urged the government to extend the public consultation process beyond 14 days to ensure the widest possible awareness and input.

His comments come after National Security Minister Wayne Munroe revealed plans to introduce new legislation to strengthen oversight of law enforcement agencies following a US federal indictment that highlighted serious corruption allegations involving Bahamian law enforcement officers and government officials.

The indictment, filed by the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, claims drug traffickers have smuggled tons of cocaine through The Bahamas since 2021 with the support of corrupt Bahamian government officials, including members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF).

Former Police Chief Superintendent Elvis Curtis and Defence Force Chief Petty Officer Darren Roker were arrested in Florida on charges of conspiracy to import cocaine, firearm possession, and firearms conspiracy. They will face trial in federal court in New York. Additionally, retired officer Sergeant Prince Albert Symonette was named in the indictment and has been discharged.

Attorney General Ryan Pinder is expected to provide further details about the bill during a media session today.

Meanwhile, Bishop Simeon Hall called for both the PLP and the FNM to “sheath their swords and develop a 25-year National Crime Plan”.

He called for “any and all officers and public officials who betray the sacred trust to which they have sworn to face the full brunt of the law”. He added: “Conviction and/or removal of ‘bad apples’ must not be allowed to cover the full extent of their crimes in uniform.”

Bishop Hall called for anyone found guilty of facilitating illegal guns into the country to be charged with treason and sedition.

Water and Sewerage GM denies grudge against Gibson and Donaldson

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

THE general manager of the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) denied on Friday that he harbours a grudge against his predecessor, Elwood Donaldson, Jr, and Long Island MP Adrian Gibson as their criminal trial resumed.

Robert Deal’s denial came during cross-examination by Damian Gomez KC, the lead defence attorney in the case, who questioned the witness about his involvement in a tank-painting project undertaken during Mr Gibson’s tenure as WSC’s executive chairman.

Mr Deal had previously testified that while he was not directly involved in the project, he signed documents related to it, including the job jacket. He also claimed that he initially removed two tanks from the proposal, deeming them unsuitable for painting.

On Friday, Mr Gomez suggested that Mr Deal should have consulted Mr Donaldson, the then-general manager, to confirm the board’s actions.

Mr Deal responded that it was Mr Donaldson who indicated the project was a board directive.

Mr Gomez suggested that the witness harboured, and continued to harbour, a grudge against Mr Gibson and Mr Donaldson.

“I don’t,” Mr Deal responded.

Mr Gomez also suggested that the general manager blamed Mr Gibson and Mr Donaldson for “accusing him” of breaching his duties to the corporation.

However, the witness rejected this claim.

Mr Gomez also pointed out that Mr Donaldson was promoted to general manager over the witness when the previous manager left, a fact the witness acknowledged.

Geoffrey Farquharson, one of the defence attorneys, rejected the testimony and accused the witness of “deliberately misleading the court.”

“If the board says the tank is to be painted, the tank is to be painted,” the defence attorney argued.

Senior Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson, the trial’s presiding judge, cautioned Mr Farquharson, advising him to reserve his “comments phrased as objections” for a later stage in the trial.

Mr Gomez continued his questioning, suggesting that “the board approved five tanks being painted and refurbished.”

However, Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Frazier objected, arguing that the same question was being repeated unnecessarily.

When asked if he agreed that each of the five contracts exceeded $100,000, Mr Deal responded, “Based on the letters of acceptance, yes.”

Mr Gibson, the Long Island MP, is on trial with Mr Donaldson, Jr, Joan Knowles, Peaches Farquharson, and Jerome Missick.

He faces charges related to his tenure as WSC executive chairman, including allegations of failing to declare his interest in contracts awarded by the corporation.

The defence team includes Mr Gomez, Mr Farquharson, Murrio Ducille, KC, Ian Cargill, Bryan Bastian, Ryan Eve, and Raphael Moxey.

The Crown’s legal team includes Ms Frazier, Karine MacVean, Rashied Edgecombe, and others. The case continues before Justice Grant-Thompson.

When Mr Gomez asked if he agreed that the board had authorised five contracts for painting five tanks, Mr Deal referred to the board secretary’s certificate, saying, “I don’t think the contractor’s names or the numbers are in there.”

WOMAN ACCUSED OF ATTEMPTED MURDER OF HUSBAND A NO SHOW

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

AN arrest warrant has been issued for a woman who was awaiting trial for the attempted murder of her husband on Friday after she failed to appear for her court date.

Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson issued the warrant for Kendra Dorsett as the defendant was absent at her court hearing.

Dorsett allegedly attempted to kill her husband Brian Dorsett by stabbing him in 2012. Justice Grant Thompson set Mrs Dorsett’s next court date for January 29, 2025. If the defendant appears on that date her new trial date will be fixed.

M AN ACCUSED IN PINEWOOD TRIPLE SHOOTING THAT LEFT TWO MEN DEAD

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was remanded into custody on Friday after being accused in a triple shooting in Pinewood Gardens that left two men dead earlier this month.

Senior Magistrate Shaka Serville arraigned Lavardo “Jubby” Dorsette, 36, on charges of two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder.

Dorsette allegedly shot and killed 34-yearold Raynaldo Rolle and 44-year-old Kischnell Edgecombe at a residence on Plane Street around 10pm on November 30. Mr Rolle was reportedly

gunned down at the rear of his property after attempting to evade his attacker. During the same incident, 33-year-old Shanton Lloyd was shot but survived after receiving treatment in hospital. The accused was informed that his case would proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI).

Dorsette was remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services and will remain there until his VBI is served on March 24, 2025.

Donna Major represented the accused, while Inspector Cordero Farrington served as the prosecutor.

Police seize $15m worth of cocaine after Acklins plane crash landing

aircraft that had crashlanded. While no occupants were found at the scene, a search of the aircraft uncovered 762 kilograms (1,982 pounds) of cocaine valued at $15,240,000 and 25 pounds of hydroponic marijuana worth $50,000.

During a press conference at Odyssey Aviation on Friday morning,

Superintendent Shakiel Riley of the Royal Bahamas Police Force Drug Enforcement Unit said: “Two persons were seen fleeing from the crash site.

A search of the aircraft revealed 24 multi-coloured packages of suspected cocaine and one crocus sack containing suspected marijuana.”

The coordinated efforts of local police and US law

enforcement led to the arrest of the seven suspects — aged 36, 39, 40, 46, 54, and 63 — on Long Island.

Superintendent Riley confirmed that the suspects are linked to the crash and are assisting with ongoing investigations. However, it remains unclear on their connection to the drugs found in Acklins.

Two men shot dead after verbal altercation outside a nightclub

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunmedia.net

TWO men were fatally shot following a verbal altercation near a nightclub on Okra Hill, off East Bay Street.

Police responded to reports of a shooting and discovered two unresponsive men with multiple gunshot wounds shortly after 1am on Friday.

One victim was found slumped against a vehicle on the exit road of Potter’s Cay Dock, while the other was in the eastern parking lot near the exit.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims had just left a nearby restaurant on East Bay Street when two unidentified men got out of a white Japanese-model vehicle parked outside. The suspects pursued the victims toward Potter’s Cay Dock, shot them, and fled

south on Mackey Street. Emergency Medical Services arrived at the scene but confirmed the victims showed no signs of life.

Chief Superintendent Kenrid Neely said that the shooting followed a verbal altercation outside a nightclub.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Zhivargo Dames noted that several operational CCTV cameras in the area captured parts of the incident, which will assist the ongoing investigation. He added that evidence suggests the victims were deliberately targeted.

The victims are believed to have been in their early 20s.

According to The Tribune’s records, this incident raises the country’s murder count to 116 for the year.

This follows a triple shooting on November 30 in Pinewood Gardens that left two people dead near Plane Street.

MAN ACCUSED OF SCA MMING PERSON OF OVER $8K IN CAR IMPORT SCHE ME

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was granted bail on Friday after being accused of scamming someone out of $8,728 in a fraudulent car import scheme over the summer.

Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr arraigned Na-zario Major, 34, on a charge of stealing by reason of service.

Major allegedly stole $8,728 from Ambrose

Gibson on June 20 in New Providence. The funds were reportedly given to Major to import a vehicle, which the complainant never received.

After pleading not guilty to the charge, Major’s bail was set at $6,000 with one or two sureties. Under the terms of his bail, he must sign in at his local police station every Monday and Wednesday by 6pm.

Major’s trial is scheduled to begin on March 13, 2025.

Funeral Service For

Leo Alexander Mackey, 69

of Winton Meadows, New Providence, Bahamas will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Shirey Street, Nassau, Bahamas. Offciating will be Canon Basil Tynes assisted by Fr. Scott Jupp. Cremation to follow. He was predeceased by his father: Preston Leo Mackey.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife: Monalisa Smith-Mackey; mother: Angela Mackey Ferguson (Oral Ferguson); children: Lesley Munnings; Johann Sr., Tarahan, Logan, Kyle, and Angelique Mackey; brothers: Ted, Trevor, and Aubrey Mackey; sisters: Sybil Roker-Bodie, Madlyn Mackey, Lydia Tyson, Wendy Lightbourne, Fredreika Wallace, Gelina Gray, Portia Mackey; step brothers and sister: Alton, Kristina, Jemuel, Lenora Ferguson; mother-in-law: Eunice Smith; daughters-in-law: Sydra and Christina Mackey; son-in-law: Ricardo Wright; brothers-in-law: Glynn Lightbourne, Henry & Mark Smith; nephews: Andre Mackey (Bridgette), Angelo Smith (Anna), Avian Mackey, Al-Jerome Newton, Geofrey and Christopher Tyson, Torry and Trevor Vano Mackey, Matthew, Aiden and Alex Smith; nieces: Michelle Newton; Tara Mackey; Tezel, Noella, and Kennedy Lightbourne; Debbie Wallace, Sophia and Reagan Smith; Uncle: Daswell J. Bevans Sr. (Sylvia); grandchildren: Johann Jr, Ashton, Kyla, Branson, Grayson, Shyanne, Lathan, Kyle Jr, Peyton and Avery Mackey; great grandchildren: Janiya & Jayla; aunt: Veronica Mackey; cousins: Simeon, Allison, Timolin, Sterling Mackey, Donna Wilson, Michael, Ester, Gary & Lisa Grant, Paul, Rochelle, Charlene, Daswell & Keith Bevans, Yvonne Davis, Natalie Jones, Javon & Keisha Noel Kenneth Major Jr. Vernice, Victoria, Melvese, Joel, Paul, David, Timothy, Josely, Blake, Delarese & Delpha and Vidya Barlette; other family: Beverly, Shelly, Terry and Perry Archer, Karen Symonette & Peggy Roberts, Debbie Armstrong, Ira & Mitzi Swaby, Jennifer, Ricky and Elizabeth Thompson; Highbury Park: Bain Family, Higgs Family, Majors Family, Freeman Hanna, Arie Percentie, Retirees from Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Soldier Road Boys, Pinedale/Union Village Crew; Hubert Gibson Jr. Family, Marshall Family, and McIntosh Family and numerous other relatives and friends.

The Public may pay their last respects at the Paul Farquharson Building, Police Headquarters, East Street on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 10:00 a.m until 5:00 p.m. and at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until service time .

762 kilograms of cocaine worth over $15m were seized by police after a plane crash landed in Spring Point, Acklins, early Friday morning. The drugs are seen here after being transported to the capital. Photos: Nikia Charlton

The Tribune Limited

NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI

“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”

Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

PICTURE OF THE DAY

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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

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Publisher/Editor 1972-

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Serious outcome due to Eleuthera’s water woes

THE fire that struck Harbour Island on Thursday night was bad enough – the news that a lack of water supply played a part in the effect of the fire was even worse.

Harbour Island has been plagued by the lack of a reliable water supply for years – giving the lie to our ambitions of being a forward-thinking, advanced Bahamas.

In Harbour Island, an 84-year-old man noticed the smoke in his kitchen at first, but when he tried to get water from the pump he found the water supply was off.

The man’s son had to run to the sea to get buckets of water, no easy task with the low tide.

The only blessing we can take is that no lives were lost – but homes were destroyed, taking everything with them.

The 84-year-old, Vincent Cleare, Sr, said: “I lost everything; I couldn’t save anything. The whole house burned down.”

His daughter spoke out about the lack of fire equipment on the island – adding that there were no fire hydrants near her father’s home either.

Three families and a restaurant were affected, according to the island administrator, Gwendolyn Patram.

She also confirmed the water supply had been off throughout most of Thursday, and was also concerned with the fire equipment on the island, saying that efforts could have been more effective if the fire truck had contained more water.

WSC said it acted quickly to improve water pressure – but the destroyed

buildings tell the story.

Eleuthera has of course experienced water woes – and electricity ones – this year already.

The interruptions were so extensive that residents were given a rebate, not that many thought it was substantial enough given the disruption.

Residents have been said to be at breaking point through the course of the year.

Harbour Island’s latest problems were potentially a matter of life and death.

The question is of course, as ever, can we do better? Too often we have let our residents down in that regard. Not just in Eleuthera, not just in a number of other Family Islands, but also in New Providence and Grand Bahama as well.

The latest changing of the guard at BPL is, we are assured, to take us towards cheaper, more reliable energy. Stop me if you have heard that one before. Time and again, we are promised improvements to infrastructure. Time and again, we are let down.

There are further rumblings over delays to airport upgrades – upgrades that are desperately needed if we are to keep bringing in the tourists that put money in the pockets of Bahamians, and keep the infrastructure going.

As we all know by now, the election countdown has started to tick. Communities will be looking at how they were at the time of the last election, and how they are now, and whether this administration has made a difference.

The jury on that is very much out.

Godspeed to soon to be Police Chief

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE Bahamas is set to have its first female Commissioner of Police. Congratulations Commissioner to be, Shanta Knowles! Commissioner Knowles is unquestionably highly qualified to assume this high office. Her technical qualifications have been announced. Let us also celebrate the fact that Commissioner Knowles has assiduously and intentionally prepared herself for leadership. I recall her recent speech to females aspiring to leadership, where she encouraged them to be focused and intentional in pursuit of their goals. She urged that circumstances that others

might regard as setbacks, they should regard as character building. She is a person of undeniable competence, depth of character, vision and integrity. Law and order are the foundation of democracy. The police are at the front line of law and order. Citizen confidence in the police is essential. Commissioner Knowles’ career demonstrates that she understands the vital role of the police in the system of law and order. Her approach is not siloed. Law and order in The Bahamas has experienced a body blow. The Royal Bahamas Police Force has such a rich and noble history and so many men and women who have and continue to serve with honour

and distinction. I believe that the body blow although strong is not debilitating. However, Commissioner Knowles, who is up to the task, requires our support. As well as keeping her, and the Royal Bahamas Police Force in our prayers, let us all do our part to uphold law and order in our Bahamaland. Let us assure her that she has our support, now and when she makes predictable sweeping changes.

Congratulations and Godspeed Commissioner Knowles. Thousands are counting on your success and holding you up in prayer.

ALLYSON GIBSON New Providence December 7, 2024.

EDITOR, The Tribune.

AS the drama unfolded in the House of Assembly and in Rawson Square last week, the only thing missing were Bull Connor’s dogs and we could have had a re-enactment of the notoriously racist and savage response to black protest that unfolded in Alabama 60 years ago.

Many Bahamians, excluding those (mostly PLP trolls) who preferred to consign the demonstration to lame political theatre, were appalled at the brutality visited upon, first the general public on Bay Street before the House meeting, and then the subsequent violence unleashed on the elected members of the opposition in Parliament shortly afterwards.

Who are these people masquerading as police officers, defenders and protectors of the Bahamian people? Cartwright in particular must have had flashbacks on the way ruffians waylaid GM Hiram Abiff, from the way he and his colleagues were brutalised by the police! Adrian White holding his Bahamian flag will be a meme forever!

Events outside the House aside, it would be fair to say that the chaos inside the chamber was precipitated by the behavior of the Speaker, the constitutional leader of that place, and so I am amazed that more focus has not been placed on the incompetence that is constantly on display from the chair. If there is someone who should resign it is the Speaker!

If we are to follow and accept the assertion by noted architect Louis Sullivan that “form follows function,” I submit that House Speaker Patricia Deveaux is not fit for purpose. The House is not a political arena, she says. Go figure!

Her heavy handed and highly partisan conduct of parliamentary business over her stormy three year tenure, culminating in the last straw on Wednesday, can be said to be the fuse that lit the conflagration that blazed for several hours last Wednesday morning, but whose embers will continue to smolder for some time to come. For those asking what comes next, Opposition leader Michael Pintard has promised to bring more fire, as he should, holding this government to account on behalf of the people.

Shanendon Cartwright, the member for St Barnabas is a copycat? So what?

In 1965, when I was but a wee lad and pulling for this group of young black men to win the government, Lynden Pindling and the Progressive Liberal Party were protesting the rank injustice being meted out by the United Bahamian Party inside and outside the House of Assembly. Nothing’s changed! As in 1965, the act captivated the Bahamian people and in this instance served notice that Michael Pintard and the FNM are not going to be playing nice with disingenuous prime minister who has taken the leaders kindness and civility for a weakness.

The mace has figured in some of the iconic protests in the House of Assembly. For those old enough to remember or have access to the google app, 21 years ago last Tuesday, December 3, then Bahamas Democratic Leader Cassius Stuart and his deputy, Omar Bradley Smith chained themselves to the Mace before being arrested and jailed for two days. They were protesting what they called the “gerrymandering of boundaries” by the then FNM government. A protest involving the Mace, then, is now considered the gold standard for registering disgust with any government’s perceived disregard for the people! That is how Cartwright’s action should be viewed. The ultimate protest for the unbearable and unrelenting partisanship engaged in by Patricia Deveaux who in my view does nothing to hide her bias and desire to see “her side win” by enabling all of the dictatorial actions of this PLP government, such as shutting down debate whenever the government wishes or refusing to meet on the second Wednesday in the month in order to deny the Opposition the right to get answers to their questions. If anyone wants to get their knickers in a twist, that’s a good reason to!

For some context on the anger and disappointment that is fueling the outrage of the Bahamian people as well as some of their representatives in the House (official Opposition) let us understand that a foreign government

(the Americans) conducted a 3½ year criminal investigation in a sovereign country (The Bahamas) and did not inform five of its top officials, including the prime minister. The Foreign Minister, Attorney General, Minister of National Security and the Commissioner of Police along with the Prime Minister were all left in the dark. A criminal investigation (a sting I believe) that reveals that those entrusted with protecting this country from two of its greatest scourges, drugs and guns (police, defence force and the government) are actually involved in the deadly trade! For all that is suggested by this scenario, the idea that there should be no protest by the official Opposition Free National Movement is ludicrous. Not to mention the avalanche of drugs that fell on Acklins one day later. Of course it now appears to some people that protest is the exclusive purview of the COI with the fringe party’s deputy leader promising to “rule with democracy!” Rule madam? You must be out of your mind! Govern is the word you want to use if you continue to dream because that can only happen in your sleep! Fact is, the deputy and her comrades now join the PLP and its chairman and chief spinmeister, Fred Mitchell, who insists that anyone who questions or protests against any of this government’s actions or decisions is either stupid, unpatriotic or both! Is this a dictatorship where citizens are to be seen but not heard?

Let me close by acknowledging that I am an old FNM who believes that the Bahamian people are fed up with this scandalous government (PLP government officials involvement in Baha Mar’s transfer to the Chinese; lying about BPL and National Insurance; bestowing citizenships at funerals; preventing immigration from doing its job with Chinese nationals; using government funds to fund a PLP private trip to Bermuda…and on and on…) and that my leader, Michael Pintard would be committing political malpractice if he allows the PLP to get away with all of this skullduggery by failing to continue to shine the light on their nefarious behavior. More fire!!! SAMUEL ROKER December 8,

Regatta at the Montagu foreshore in Nassau,

Photo: Tim Aylen/Bahamas Visual Services

35 years jail for molesting grandaughter over five years

from page one

rocked back and forth.

The now 17-year-old girl described her ordeal as a “nightmare” when she testified that her grandfather molested her multiple times over five years.

The trial lasted over a week, with 11 witnesses submitting testimony.

A nine-person jury returned guilty verdicts of 7-2 on all 23 counts of sexual abuse against the defendant.

The defendant engaged in unlawful sexual intercourse with his granddaughter on 22 occasions between May 1, 2019, and January 23, 2024, in New Providence. He is also accused of indecently assaulting her on January 24.

The victim, who was between the ages of 11 and 16 when the offences

occurred, testified virtually.

She said her grandfather forced her into anal sex and made her perform oral sex on him repeatedly. She said she had lived with him and her younger siblings her entire life, but moved out in February when the abuse was revealed.

The complainant recounted an incident in May 2019. She said she was lying in her grandfather’s bed watching TV when he reached under the covers and touched her inappropriately. She claimed she just lay there as it happened, marking this as the first instance of abuse.

The complainant also said she cried the first time her grandfather molested her anally and that he sometimes used Vaseline. She further indicated that, in one instance, she suffered a tear near her anus from the abuse.

The complainant admitted she once had a close relationship with her grandfather but began to resent him as the abuse continued. She described him as strict and frightening, claiming he often prevented her from going out and was violent, hitting her with objects like rakes and hammers. She testified that her grandfather touched her hip more than ten times over the years and forced her to perform oral sex frequently. She further alleged the anal assaults began in mid-2019 and continued until late 2023, happening every other week until 2022, when she briefly ran away. The complainant expressed frustration at herself for not speaking out sooner and said she tried to avoid engaging with the defendant. The

complainant said that it was only through the encouragement of a close female friend that she finally came forward to her mother with the years of sexual abuse she faced living under the defendant’s roof.

The victim told her mother she’d been abused since she was 12 years old. Upon her mother learning of the sexual assaults the child was immediately moved from the convict’s custody to live with another relative.

Justice Thompson said that the convict’s behaviour was inappropriate and unacceptable. She said that he had violated the victim’s innocence and sought to corrupt her.

The judge noted that the abuse took place while the convict had a live-in girlfriend at his home.

Justice Thompson added that the victim was

Women’s rights activist warns ACP Knowles’ promotion could be a set up for her to fail

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter

WOMEN’S rights activist

Alicia Wallace has warned that Assistant Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles’ anticipated appointment as the first female Commissioner of Police may reflect the “glass cliff phenomenon,” where women are promoted during crises and set up to fail.

ACP Knowles’ proposed appointment comes amid ongoing controversies in the Royal Bahamas Police Force.

During a national address, Prime Minister Philip Davis announced his recommendation last Wednesday. It follows Commissioner Clayton Fernander’s resignation and Deputy Commissioner Leamond Deleveaux’s impending retirement.

Mr Fernander’s follows a recent US federal indictment alleging that members of the RBPF and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) assisted drug traffickers smuggling cocaine from South America through the Bahamas to the US.

Ms Wallace, Equality Bahamas director, said: “We are aware, and remind the government and the general public, of the glass cliff phenomenon in which women are promoted in the midst of crisis and set up to fail.”

and be able to address critical issues such as gender-based violence.

She added: “We welcome opportunities to engage with the new Commissioner of Police to discuss gender-based violence, recommendations by human rights bodies that have not yet been implemented, and training for all police officers.”

Ms Knowles, 53, is a mother of one daughter and has served in the police force for 33 years. She has also held positions in the Southern Division, Criminal Investigations Department, Family Island Districts of Exuma and Eleuthera, the National Crime Prevention Office, and the Human Resources Department, in addition to serving as Commandant of the Police Reserves.

traumatised by these events and noted how the complainant testified that she’d sworn off having sex with men in the future.

Justice Thompson scolded the convict, saying that he caused a tear in the victim’s anus until she bled and that the anal abuse may lead to health complications in her future.

She further expressed that the convict breached the complainant’s trust and showed an utter lack of remorse following his conviction.

Justice Thompson said that the defendant appeared open anger during his conviction and that he had turned the victim’s home into a house of horrors.

After calling the convict’s actions inappropriate, Justice Thompson said: “You are an adult. You knew better. You should have acted better.”

Prosecutor Rashied Edgecombe recommended that the defendant serve a 25 to 30-year sentence for the incest charges. Conversely, Sonia Timothy Knowles, the defendant’s attorney, asked that her client only be sentenced to nine years in prison, given his previously clean record up to this point.

Justice Thompson remarked that she wanted her sentence to send a strong message to society to deter similar crimes. She also noted the increased prevalence of sex crimes. The convict was sentenced to 35 years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services for the Incest charges. He also faced a five-year sentence for the indecent assault to be served concurrently from the date of his conviction.

COURT OF APPE A L DENIES BA IL FOR TWO MEN ACCUSED OF DON SAUNDERS MURDER

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter Lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

THE Court of Appeal has denied bail for Jaico Choute, 25, one of two men accused of murdering former Free National Movement MP Donald Saunders in March.

She added the country has a long way to go in reaching equal participation and leadership in public and political life.

Despite her concerns, Ms Wallace expressed hope that ACP Knowles would receive consistent support

She said failing to provide ACP Knowles with the necessary tools and support, including backing from key officials, could lead to negative outcomes for her, the RBPF, and Bahamian women.

Her experience includes leading the Sexual Offences Squad and the Trafficking in Persons Squad, successfully investigating the first human trafficking case in the country.

From 2017 to 2020, she served as the director of the National Crime Prevention Office. She had also worked as the press liaison officer, communicating with the media and the public on behalf of the police force.

In August, Choute sought bail before Justice Neil Brathwaite but was denied and remained in custody for his safety. The court highlighted concerns over the number of people killed while on bail and Choute’s admission that he lied about his accomplice’s identity out of fear, claiming the “people were powerful.”

On December 5, the Court of Appeal dismissed his latest attempt for bail. The matter was heard before Justice Isaacs, Justice Evans, and Justice Smith. Choute and his coaccused, Nicarson Nixon, 21, were charged in April with murder, armed robbery, and attempted armed robbery.

The pair, allegedly armed with a handgun, are accused of fatally shooting Mr Saunders while attempting to rob him at Rags Bar on the night of March 27. During the same robbery, they reportedly stole $650 from the establishment.

ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF POLICE SHANTA KNOWLES

LATE FNM MP DONALD SAUNDERS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2024

‘Are we a nation for sale, again?’

By TYLER MCKENZIE

THE Bahamas is in the middle of an unholy scandal – and it is one that has international ramifications for our nation’s reputation as well as the mess here at home.

Our country’s history with the cocaine trade is so well known that we routinely refer to part of our past as “the drug years”.

It was in 1982 when that shameful period was writ large internationally with the country labelled “A Nation For Sale”.

TV journalist Brian Ross aired the report on NBC in the United States – and a report by Carl Hiaasen and Jim McGee in the Miami Herald branded the nation with that title.

The claims of smugglers

using The Bahamas to transship Colombian cocaine into the US is exactly the same as the claim we are facing now. Back then, the report claimed then Prime Minister Sir Lynden Pindling was involved in taking bribes. Pindling denied the accusation – but public demand led to a Commission of Inquiry that led to the resignation or dismissal of five government ministers.

Fast forward to today – and over the weekend, the Miami Herald was again talking about drug shipments through The Bahamas.

Over the weekend, a story headlined “Indictment: ‘Corrupt’ Bahamas police, government helped smugglers pour cocaine into US” was published – and

promptly was circulated widely both here at home and worldwide.

The Miami Herald is not alone in reporting this, of course.

USA Today was one of the first to report the allegations internationally, under a story headlined “Feds charge Bahamian cops for taking bribes, shipping cocaine into US”.

Elsewhere, Newsweek reported “Bahamas Police Chief Quits Amid US Cocaine Trafficking Indictments”. MSN reported similarly.

The Jamaica Gleaner reported “Bahamas PM accepts resignation of police commissioner, vows to arrest those involved in drug trade”, while over in the UK, the Guardian reported the allegations in its coverage of the

chaos in the House last week when the mace was thrown from the window by FNM deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright.

The Associated Press also reported on the resignation of Clayton Fernander as Police Commissioner in the aftermath of the US indictment that saw two of his officers named in the US indictment alleging a massive conspiracy to smuggle tons of cocaine into the US. A defence force officer has also been named – and arrested – as part of that investigation, yet on Thursay of last week, the director of communications in the Office of the Prime Minister said the prime minister had not met with senior defence force officials on the matter yet. It is worth noting that

our nation’s response to this has been fragmented at best so far.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis rightly addressed the House of Assembly in the wake of the allegations – but the Opposition were not given the opportunity to speak, or ask any questions. The House was suspended amid seething frustration.

When the House resumed last week, we all saw the outcome. The FNM were told to wait again as the Speaker waved her order of business. Believe the FNM or not, think it was staged or not, but the outcome was the chaos with the mace being thrown from the window and the House suspended again. Still no opportunity to ask questions or interrogate the state about what we know and what we don’t know about the allegations.

That opportunity still has not come. The world is talking about cocaine and guns being smuggled through The Bahamas and the Opposition hasn’t had the opportunity to say anything on the public record. This is dismal.

When Mr Davis addressed the House, FNM leader Michael Pintard asked to respond as it was a matter of national importance, only to be met with some equivocation about what was or was not the definition of national importance.

Given that the whole process has so far cost the nation two officers arrested, one discharged from the police force and the officer in charge of the entire force’s resignation, it’s safe to say this is of national importance. Then there is the commissioner himself. He gave a whole national statement – as far as I can remember an unprecedented thing for a commissioner to do. He laid out his plan to tackle corruption and then… gone. Days later, he hands in his resignation. What changed? Why was everyone so willing to

go along with the commissioner to lay out a strategy for dealing with corruption on the force only to turn around and end up putting it all into the hands of a new commissioner, who may or may not have the same plans?

There is, meanwhile, silence on the question of who the purported government official in the indictment is, Riccardo Adolphus Davis, and whether or not he really does work for government and what his connections might be. Stories are doing the rounds on social media of course, and they do not look good for the administration if this is indeed the same person. One of the reasons for accepting the commissioner’s resignation was to give a fresh start – the longer the question of the government official lingers, the further we are from that fresh beginning.

Now you will notice we have gone through all of that without actually getting to the question of a criminal investigation here in The Bahamas. Detailed in the indictment are a series of crimes not only in the US but in The Bahamas too. Where are the arrests here? We seem to be waiting for an extradition request from the US before we get on with cleaning our own house.

To sum up, we have a plan laid out by a commissioner who left right after revealing it, we have a prime minister who is slow off the mark on speaking to senior officers in the RBDF, we have an absence of communication on governmental connections, a failure to allow the Opposition to hold officials to account and no sign of a criminal investigation making haste to deal with these allegations. And all the while, in the international realm, our reputation burns.

Is it any wonder that people are asking if this is A Nation For Sale all over again?

US Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen aircrews assisted the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the US Drug Enforcement Administration with the transfer and disposition of approximately 391 kilos of cocaine worth an estimated value of $7.5 million, on March, 29, 2024 at the Mayaguana Airport in The Bahamas.

Photo: US Coast Guard

CARICOM members states unified in support of Ramdin

THE election of a new Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), scheduled for March 10, 2025, represents a pivotal moment not only for the organization but also for the countries of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

For the first time, the 14 CARICOM member states are unified in their strategic support of a single candidate: Albert Ramdin, the Foreign Minister of Suriname. With this alignment, CARICOM has positioned itself as a strong bloc in an election fraught with geopolitical implications, gender equity debates, and regional rivalries.

THE GEOPOLIT ICAL LANDSCAPE

The collective endorsement of Ramdin’s candidacy by CARICOM gives him 14 of the 18 votes required for victory. He has announced that he also has the committed support of Chile, Honduras, and Peru. Assuming these commitments hold, he is just one vote shy of clinching the position.

Meanwhile, Paraguay’s Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez has emerged as a contender. In a bold display to OAS member states, Ramírez prominently exhibited a photograph of himself with US President-elect Donald Trump at the latter’s Florida home, Mar-a-Lago, on November 25. He also

World View

made pointed references to conversations about the future direction of the OAS with Carlos Trujillo, a former US Ambassador to the OAS under Trump’s first presidency. While

Ramírez’s display appears calculated to imply tacit US backing, it remains unclear whether such support will materialise or significantly influence the race.

The election reflects broader tensions within the Americas. The OAS has long adhered to an informal rule that the Secretary General and Assistant Secretary General cannot hail from the same subregion. With Ramdin vying for the top post, CARICOM’s ability to retain the Assistant Secretary General position—a role that CARICOM nationals have held for 40 of the past 45 years—is uncertain.

THE UN FACTOR

Beyond the OAS, the election has ramifications for global diplomacy. A successful bid by a CARICOM candidate for Secretary General of the OAS could effectively disqualify the region from fielding a candidate for the United Nations Secretary General position in 2026. It is widely believed that it is the turn of the Latin American and Caribbean Group at the UN to assume the post of Secretary General. Latin American states may leverage Ramdin’s OAS victory to block CARICOM nominees for the UN Secretary General post, arguing that the region cannot hold both roles.

This dynamic underscores the zero-sum nature of global and regional diplomacy, where gains in one arena can translate to losses in another.

GENDER AND REGIONAL POLIT ICS

Calls for a female Secretary General at both the OAS and the UN add another layer of complexity. Although no women have officially entered the race for either position, the expectation for gender equity remains significant. Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley has been informally touted, in international circies, as a potential candidate, though she has not expressed interest. Meanwhile, some Latin American women are actively seeking the UN Secretary General post and may yet emerge in the OAS race, complicating the dynamics further.

Additionally, after the inauguration of President Trump on January 20, 2025, the United States—historically influential in OAS elections—may sponsor a Latin American candidate aligned with US interests. Should this occur, considerable pressure will likely be applied to OAS member states to support the USfavoured candidate. The betting within the OAS is that this scenario is a strong possibility, and it is being watched with considerable interest.

What’s at stake FOR CARICOM?

CARICOM’s collective backing of Ramdin marks a significant milestone in regional diplomacy, demonstrating a rare unity when a top international position is at stake—particularly in the face of potential influence or pressure from larger powers.

However, a loss in the Secretary General race could jeopardise CARICOM’s ability to secure either of the OAS’s top positions. With its focus on the March 2025 Secretary General election, CARICOM would have limited time to campaign effectively for a candidate in the Assistant Secretary General election just two months later in May, should Ramdin’s bid fall short.

With neither posts of Secretary General or the Assistant Secretary General, CARICOM will lose the prestige and recognition that occupation of the top positions bestow. However, the group’s influence in the OAS will not necessarily diminish, provided its national delegations are firmly and positively engaged in its work.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of the election for OAS Secretary General will profoundly shape the future role and direction of the organisation. One must hope that, in the end, the choice will be guided not by the nationality or region of the candidate, nor by the desire of any nation to dominate the OAS, but by the candidate’s vision for a strong organisation and its mission to integrate and strengthen The Americas on a basis of equity and rights.

CARICOM and its candidate, Albert Ramdin, must embrace and champion this principle, recognizing that the stakes extend far beyond personal or regional ambitions. Regardless of the outcome, CARICOM’s unified stance in this election signals a growing maturity in its regional diplomacy—an approach that must continue to guide its engagement on the global stage.

The writer is Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US and the OAS. The views expressed are entirely his own. Responses and previous commentaries:www. sirronaldsanders.com.

By SIR RONALD SANDERS

ALBERT RAMDIN, MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS IN SURINAME

COP29’s failures must serve as a call to arms for youth of the region

THE global youth population includes at least 25 percent of people on the planet and our current understanding of the climate crisis is that young people will experience a larger share of its consequences within our lifetimes. Youth who call the Caribbean home must also be aware that according to reports from Save the Children International they number among young people from developing countries who are at least ten times more likely to be affected by climaterelated disasters compared to youth in other parts of the world, particularly the Global North.

The Caribbean has been characterised by the UNFCCC as one of the most at-risk regions due to climate change. This means that the consequences of global inaction now will not only continue to negatively impact the region today but will also seriously disrupt Caribbean futures. The ones who are currently and will continue shouldering that burden are young people.

Recognising this stark reality, youth from the region have been working tirelessly to ensure that their presence is felt, and their voices are heard in the space where world leaders gather to make decisions concerning global climate change response. At COP29, youth delegates from the Caribbean Climate Justice Leaders Academy (CCJLA) here with Island Innovation had a lot to say.

Audiences of numerous side events and pavilions in the blue and green zones witnessed these delegates go above and beyond to communicate the urgency of this crisis for our region, the challenges unique to our communities, the frustration of being underrepresented in this process, the solutions we are championing on the frontlines, and the need for greater financial support to safeguard our island homes.

There was Caribbean youth participation in other areas of COP29 as well.

Youth negotiators from the region were not only fullfledged members of their country delegations but also had mandates to follow specific negotiation tracks that supported their party’s priorities. Additionally, all the excitement and action or inaction going on at COP29 had to be communicated back home and there were even young Caribbean journalists stepping in to fill that role - supported by ClimateTracker’s COP29 Climate Justice journalism fellowship. Caribbean youth were deeply engaged in COP29. They had motivations, expectations, and perspectives that were tied to their engagement with the conference which gave them a huge stake in the outcomes of this COP. Considering their insights now in the aftermath of COP29 may offer a clearer picture of whether or not the outcomes of this COP are aligned with the best interests of Caribbean youth.

Whitney, an Indigenous rights advocate from Dominica, felt the weight of underrepresentation at COP29. For her, the voices of Indigenous Caribbean youth were not only marginalised in the broader climate discussions but also within Indigenous spaces at COP. “It’s been absolutely frustrating,” she admitted, reflecting on her realisation that Caribbean Indigenous peoples are more diverse and widespread than she had previously understood. This revelation, while humbling, deepened her commitment to advocacy. Frustration arose not only from the lack of Caribbean Indigenous representation but also from a perceived lack of preparedness. “We

“At the end of the day, when these issues impact our countries or our societies, it directly impacts human beings and their rights,” - Jeshua, St Vincent delegate

deserve these spaces, but we also need to be prepared for them,” Whitney emphasised. She stressed the importance of capacity building and unified advocacy among Indigenous groups, explaining, “When we are in these spaces, we need to speak with solidarity, with conviction, and for each other.” Her engagement extended beyond critique to action; Whitney actively sought connections with other Indigenous groups, such as those from Guyana, learning how they preserve traditions and maintain cultural ties. “It was amazing and honestly, I was envious,” she said, envisioning a future where Caribbean Indigenous communities share knowledge and present a unified front. Her message to other Caribbean Indigenous youth is one of resilience and collaboration. “Speak up, continue your activism, and reach out to others,” she urged. Whitney emphasized the value of programmes like the Youth Negotiators Academy and the Caribbean Climate Justice Leaders Academy to build capacity and persistence.

Noelle, a Bermudian youth, described her experience at COP29 as “surreal”. Her presence at COP29 was both historic and drought with challenges. She highlighted those unique challenges faced by Bermuda as a subnational jurisdiction of the UK, particularly the lack of direct representation at such events. Even Bermuda’s national leaders must apply to be part of the UK delegation, leaving its youth with limited avenues for participation. Noelle was able to attend COP29 as an observer, thanks to support from the International National Trust Organisation and the Caribbean Climate Justice Leaders Academy. Her observer status, however, further confirmed the lack of access for Bermudian youth at COP. “I was actually asked to leave one of the negotiations because there wasn’t enough room for those without party badges,” Noelle explained. Despite these setbacks, she found encouragement in the intergenerational interest she encountered

from attendees eager to learn about Bermuda and support subnational jurisdictions like hers.

Noelle’s message to Caribbean youth with similar circumstances was clear: “Look beyond what your nation provides and seek international support for your interests, especially in STEM and environmental fields.” She also urged leaders to address the humanitarian aspects of climate justice, including mental health and food security, alongside infrastructure and finance. For Noelle, COP29 was not just about navigating barriers but about ensuring the Caribbean’s unique challenges are addressed holistically. For others, the focus was on ensuring the region’s specific vulnerabilities were represented at the decisionmaking table. Emmana, a youth negotiator for Dominica, highlighted the staggering reality that her country’s GDP has been devastated by climaterelated disasters, with losses exceeding 90 percent over decades due to hurricanes and other events. “Training young negotiators is not just relevant; it’s essential,” she stressed, emphasising the need for continuity and the passing on of intergenerational knowledge.

Emmana viewed her role at COP29 as particularly significant because of its focus on climate finance, a track she described as vital for small island developing states (SIDS) like Dominica. “This year’s COP is a finance COP, and developing countries are calling on developed nations to stick to their pledges of ramping up finance for addressing climate impacts,” she explained. Recalling the unmet promises of financial support after Hurricane Maria, she underlined the importance of holding developed countries accountable for their commitments while preparing a new generation of negotiators to advocate for their nations effectively. Through her participation in training programmes like the Commonwealth Young Negotiators Programme and the Youth Negotiators Academy’s climate programme, Emmana felt well prepared to navigate the complexities of the negotiation process, but acknowledged the challenges inherent in such a setting. “To be honest, I came in with low expectations. We know some of these texts have been under discussion for years, and even at the next COP, we’ll likely see them return in new forms,” she reflected. While moments of disappointment emerged, she emphasized the importance

of compromise in achieving even small victories. “We can’t have it all, but we have to be happy for the few progressions we’re making,” she said.

Jeshua, a lawyer from St Vincent and the Grenadines, brought a multifaceted perspective to COP29, one that emphasised the intersection of climate change and human rights. “At the end of the day, when these issues impact our countries or our societies, it directly impacts human beings and their rights,” Jeshua explained, calling for greater emphasis on this intersection in discussions and commitments. While Jeshua found the experience rewarding, particularly opportunities to speak on panels, network, and engage with peers through Island Innovation, they also highlighted the overwhelming nature of COP itself, with countless activities and pavilions demanding strategic participation. Their reflection underscored the need for young people attending these conferences to not only advocate but also navigate the logistical challenges of being effective in such vast spaces.

Tyrell, a climate advocate from Trinidad and Tobago attending his first climate COP, offered a complementary perspective. While he respected the importance of negotiations, Tyrell focused his energy on networking and building connections to expand his climate projects at home and regionally. “I think it’s not bold to say that we are already aware of what the issues and solutions are,” he said, explaining his priority to learn from others and share his own expertise through panels and community-level advocacy. Like Jeshua, Tyrell appreciated the rewarding experience of sitting on panels to highlight the challenges and resilience of Trinidad and Tobago. However, he also recognised the broader struggle of underrepresented groups to have their voices heard, stating, “If one marginalised or traditionally excluded group is not being adequately represented in this space, it’s a challenge for all of us.”

His message to Caribbean youth was one of empowerment: “We all truly do have our role to play if we find our niche. Build your capacity, engage in advocacy, and expand your knowledge. When we leave COP29, the work continues.”

Tyrell called on leaders to translate negotiations into tangible outcomes: “Stop coming to this space and only talking a big game, then going back home where climate

change is far down on the agenda. We want less talk, more action.”

While some youths were immersed in negotiation tracks or panel discussions, others, like Colvin, focused on amplifying these efforts from home. As a radio broadcaster from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Colvin participated in the Climate Tracker fellowship, producing audio reports on COP29’s developments. He described the experience as hectic. “It feels like I’m missing out on a whole lot,” he admitted. While others had boots on the ground in Baku, Colvin relied on digital tools to stay informed. Although he engaged with the various components of the conference from a distance, he recognised the value in experiencing it firsthand.

He did acknowledge as well how overwhelming COP appears even from afar, “It seems to be quite a lot to take in and at some points you know, there can be some confusion as to what is the clear point or the clear way forward.”

Colvin highlighted the critical importance of climate action for small island developing states like his home but described the challenging COP process as an ongoing battle. “I like to call it a battle because year after year we have these meetings and promises are made in all different areas, but we do not tend to get all of these cleared up,” he shared.

Nevertheless, he calls on negotiators to harness their momentum and visibility, “keep pushing … we are being heard … let’s continue to be heard,” he encouraged.

At the same time, he urged world leaders to “take a listening ear and look at what we’re experiencing, look at the storms and the hurricanes and flash floods – just days ago we experienced flash floods and unprecedented rains … looking at the sea surface temperatures being extremely hot, things are changing rapidly around us and we expect that you would be able to fulfill your promises to provide some level of assistance”. He called not just for a financial response but also for “concrete measures” to be taken in their own territories.

Colvin also emphasised the growing visibility of youth voices and the importance of translating these into action. His hope, like many others, was for COP29 to not merely be another summit of broken promises but a turning point for tangible progress. Tyrell shared this sentiment and criticised leaders

saying, “Stop coming to this space and only talking a big game, then going back home where climate change is far down on the agenda. We want less talk, more action.” For all the diversity in perspectives, a shared frustration united these Caribbean youth - the recurring inaction and broken promises from wealthier nations. The socalled “Climate Finance COP” did little to bridge the gaps they highlighted. Developed countries once again fell short of their commitments to provide adequate climate finance, leaving Caribbean nations to face rising sea levels, hurricanes, and flash floods without the appropriate resources.

Loss and damage financing remained largely aspirational, with only incremental progress made despite the urgency expressed by small island states. Capacity-building initiatives for indigenous and youth leaders, like those Whitney and Emmana advocated for, were notably absent. Likewise, Noelle’s call for broader considerations beyond finance found little reflection in the final text. For Jeshua and Tyrell, the failure to centre human rights in the outcomes mirrored the broader inadequacies in addressing systemic inequities.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ words to youth representatives at COP29 offered a sobering acknowledgement: “You have every right to be angry. I am angry too.” For the Caribbean youth delegates, this anger remains fuel for their ongoing fight, even as COP29 fell short of delivering the justice they demand. Despite these systemic failures, the resilience of Caribbean youth remains unshaken. Whitney’s closing message captures their determination: “We need climate finance. I believe as youth and as Caribbean people we have the resilience, we have the motivation to meet you halfway and go even further. But we need the financing to realise all these plans and these projects that we as youth have, because we do have the vision; we just need the finance. We need you to meet us halfway.” Their voices, stories, and demands are a reminder that while COP29 may have fallen short, the fight for climate justice is far from over. Instead, COP29’s failures must serve as a call to arms for youth all over the region to join the fight for our future.

JERVON SANDS

Govt: Both Valley groups to compete

audience.

The ministry’s move comes even though Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence chairman Dion Miller repeatedly said only the group led by Brian Adderley would compete in the main category and that the Way Forward group led by Trevor Davis would participate as just a fun group.

The ministry’s intervention came a day after the traditional Nervous Saturday draw ceremony to determine the order of entry was held. Up to press time last night, it was unclear if the draw would be redone.

“Acting on the advice of the Attorney General, the Government of The Bahamas accepts that the Way Forward Valley Boys is properly registered and certified to participate in the upcoming junkanoo parades,” the ministry said in a statement.

“While the legal dispute between the parties has not yet been adjudicated, the government will remain impartial on the matter, recognising both ‘The Way Forward’ and ‘The World Famous’ as registered groups eligible to participate in the Boxing Day 2024 and New Year’s Day 2025 parades in the A Category.

“The government acknowledges the potential legal exposure surrounding this matter and its objective to remain impartial for all parties involved.”

The Valley Boys split earlier this year over differences

in how the organisation is run. Meanwhile, Aliv chief information officer Dwayne Davis told The Tribune that as of 4pm yesterday, eight sections of the parade route, spanning Charlotte Street to East Street in downtown Nassau, were sold out.

He said Aliv introduced three additional physical outlets for ticket sales this year but has seen a notable increase in ticket purchases through the Aliv Events app. Junkanoo organisers recently announced upgrades to the app to prevent the issues encountered during last year’s ticketing process.

The announcement coincided with Saturday’s drawing ceremony for the parade order of entry, held at Arawak Cay. The event saw vibrant participation from Junkanoo groups,

representatives from the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence, the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, and enthusiastic spectators.

In the A Division, the Boxing Day Parade order was Genesis, Prodigal Sons, Music Makers, One Family, The World Famous Valley Boys, Roots, and the Shell Saxons Superstars.

In the B division, the order is Fancy Dancers, Immortals, Original Congos, Foundations, Conquerors for Christ, Body of Christ, Colours, The Mighty Eagle, Mystical Bombers, Redland Soldiers, Dynasty, The New Vikings and Z-Bandits.

For the New Year’s Parade, Prodigal Sons was drawn lead, followed by Roots, The World Famous Valley Boys, Genesis, One Family, Music Makers, and the Shell Saxons Superstars. The B division order is

Redland Soldiers, Immortals, Conquerors for Christ, Original Congos, Fancy Dancers, Colours, Body of Christ, Mystical Bombers, Foundations, The New Vikings, The Mighty Eagle, Dynasty and Z-Bandits.

The parades feature 23 D Division individual acts, 13 B Division groups, and now eight A Division groups.

The Boxing Day Parade will begin at 9pm on Christmas Day, December 25, instead of the traditional midnight start on December 26. Organisers said this adjustment aims to accommodate large costumes and keep the event on schedule.

For those not using the Aliv Events app, tickets are available at Aliv locations in the Mall at Marathon, Cable Beach, and Harbour Bay. Prices remain the same as last year, ranging from $25 to $55 plus VAT.

Biweekly pay for public servants extended to allow further consultation

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

MINISTER of Labour and Public Service Pia Glover-Rolle announced that the timeline for implementing biweekly pay for public servants has been extended to allow further consultations with key stakeholders.

This announcement comes days after the minister revealed the government’s plan to introduce biweekly pay in the public sector by early 2025. Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) President Kimsley Ferguson said he was baffled by the comments, saying that union leaders had been informed the government was not currently pursuing biweekly pay.

Mr Ferguson also noted that Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) President Belinda Wilson recently received a letter from Financial Secretary Simon Wilson, indicating that biweekly payments were not being pursued at this time.

In a statement yesterday, Mrs Glover-Rolle said that on December 6, she received an update from the Ministry of Finance regarding the government’s plan to transition to biweekly salary payments.

The update clarified that the timeline for implementation has been extended. She added that the extension would allow more time for consultations with key stakeholders and

adjustments to the Oracle HRMIS software.

“While the widespread introduction of biweekly payments remains an aspirational goal, more time is needed to ensure the smooth rollout of this major change in the way public servants are paid,” the statement said.

Mrs Glover-Rolle reiterated that the government believes biweekly payments will benefit public servants by providing a more consistent cash flow between pay periods.

Her statement added:

“However, as effective social dialogue and stakeholder engagement are critical to the successful rollout of this change, the decision has been made to extend the period of consultation until all major stakeholders are fully briefed on details.”

Officials will also continue testing and rolling out the Oracle system to digitise all government HR processes, including improvements to the efficiency of hiring, appraisals, payroll, and other HRrelated functions. Additionally, consultations will continue with local trade unions, banks, and other stakeholders to establish a practical timeline for introducing biweekly salary payments.

The Ministry of Finance is the primary agency responsible for the biweekly payment project, while the Ministry of Public Service is a supporting partner.

Pintard criticises PLP’s L ack of transParency, saying, ‘i beL ieve they have a Lot to hide’

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

OPPOSITION Leader Michael Pintard has accused the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) government of being reluctant to call an independent commission of inquiry to investigate allegations of corruption involving law enforcement officials, claiming they have “a lot to hide.”

“I believe the government is unwilling to call for a commission of inquiry with independent actors who are from The Bahamas as well as international,” Mr Pintard said.

The accusations follow revelations in a US indictment filed in New York, which alleged that two police officers and a Royal Bahamas Defence Force chief petty officer facilitated the transshipment of tons of cocaine from South America through The Bahamas into the United States. The indictment also suggested the involvement of a political figure.

Mr Pintard criticised the government’s lack of transparency, saying: “I believe they have a lot to hide; I believe any administration that continues to prevent the public from accessing information about what all of us do privately, they have something to hide. And that’s why they do not want a Freedom of Information Act in place.”

He accused the government of disregarding the Procurement Act, alleging they avoid following its procedures to issue contracts without disclosing details about their terms or repayment obligations.

“That is why they do not want a Procurement Act to be followed,” he said, “because they wish to issue contracts in a way without providing the details of the terms of those contracts and how much money we

have to pay back over time.” Mr Pintard also alleged the government has concealed sums paid in confidential settlements since taking office.

“This is an administration that has a lot to hide,” he said.

He highlighted the Free National Movement’s (FNM) efforts over the past three years to hold the government accountable, pointing to their protests over Minister of Immigration Keith Bell and their criticism of the government’s handling of the FTX collapse.

“They are failing to protect our reputation by carrying out transparent investigations so that the world and Bahamians can know this is a country of laws and we will hold people accountable and that policymakers are not complicit in what is going on,” Mr Pintard said.

He added: “This is why the FNM are putting pressure on the Davis administration because they are failing to lead.”

THE ORDER of the New Year’s Day A and B Division Junkanoo groups is displayed at Arawak Cay on Staurday.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune

LABOUR MINISTER PIA G LOVER-ROLLE

OPPOSITION LEADER MICHAEL PINTARD

SPORTS

Stefan wins triple crown

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter

tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

Four days of exciting sailing action on the waters at the seventh Best-of-the-Best Regatta concluded on ‘Championship Sunday’ at Montagu Beach.

For the third time in the event’s history, Long Island sailor Stefan Knowles came away as a triple crown champion, emerging victorious in Class A, B and C events.

The Running Tide, skippered by Knowles, bested the competitors in the Class A event for first place. Long Island’s New Legend came second in the class and Ruff Justice was third overall despite a strong start.

The winning boat cleared the buoy first on the first of two laps and led

17

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor

THE Bahamas and Cuba will square off for the second time, but this time for the championship title in the Under-15 Caribbean Baseball Cup. The two teams will square off tonight in a nationally televised game at 8pm in the final of the fourteam, six-day tournament at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.

In their initial meeting during the round robin of the tournament, the Bahamas pulled off a huge 11-8 decision over Cuba to push their record to 3-0 on Friday night. Cuba dropped to 2-1.

QC Comets dominate BAISS cross country

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

THE Queen’s College

Comets had a successful showing at the 2024 Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools (BAISS) Cross Country Championships staged at the St Andrew’s school grounds over the weekend.

The Comets secured wins in six out of eight divisions at the meet. The school was a cut above the rest in the under-13 boys, under-15 boys and girls, under-17 boys, and

under-20 boys and girls divisions at the one-day meet.

The St Augustine’s College (SAC) Big Red Machine clinched the victory in the under-13 girls’ category and Temple Christian School sealed the win in the under-17 girls age group.

QC head coach Everette Fraser was particularly impressed with the heart and fight displayed in the performances of his athletes.

“Winning my second cross country in a row feels good. Last year I would say we probably had a more

THE SPORTS CALENDAR

talented team but this year this team had more heart, they had more fight and they displayed it out there.

“I was a little surprised because I knew we were short-handed but the kids ran extremely hard and they ran for one another. It was a team effort and that’s why surprisingly in some areas they cleaned up and they won,” he said.

Coach Fraser said the cross country meet provided a good indication of the strengths of his athletes going into the track and field season.

17

BAHAMAS FEEDING NETWORK TEE-OFF FOR HUNGER

THE Bahamas Feeding Network is scheduled to host its 3rd annual Teeoff For Hunger today 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.

TRIATHLON ELECTION OF

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

PAGE 16

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

AFTER another successful year on both the local and international scene, the New Providence Cycling Association awarded its most outstanding performers with awards on Sunday morning. The presentation and breakfast feat took place on Saunders Beach where cyclists such as Kevin Daley, Tyrone Paul Jr, Calude Robertt, Andrew Cates, Ilaria Gercvasini, Sienna CulmerMackey, Barron Musgrove Jr, Malcolm Menzies, Tristan Johnson, Fraser Menzies, Erin Pritchard, Tylor Knowles and Trenae Smith all took home top honours in their respective age groups. NPCA president Barron “Turbo” Musgrove said the awards presentation is based on their point system from the 10-12 races they hold during the course of the year. “Each race is a point race with the winner getting ten,

On Saturday, the playoffs took place with the Bahamas advancing to the championship with a 16-1 rout over Sint Maarten, while Cuba whitewashed the US Virgin Islands 10-0 to earn their berth.

Just before the Bahamas vs Cuba showdown, Sint Marteen and the US Virgin Islands will face each other to determine who will return home with the consolation third-place prize.

Here’s a look at how they got to their positions going into the final day of competition tonight at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium. Bahamas 16, Sint Marten 1 St Maarten scored their only run in the bottom of the first inning on Saturday after Yaedon Martie got on base on a fielder’s choice and eventually came home safely. That fuelled the fire for Team Bahamas, managed by Albert Cartwright,

TRIPLE CROWN: Long Island sailor Stefan Knowles - for the third time in the event’s history - came away as a triple crown champion, emerging victorious in Class A, B and C events at the seventh Best-of-the-Best Regatta in Montagu Bay.

Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr

TRENAE Smith receives her award from Annetaa Culmer-Mackey and Jacinda Knowles.

Darnold sets two new career highs as Vikings down the Falcons 42-21

By The Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS

(AP)

— Sam Darnold threw for 347 yards and five touchdowns, both career highs, and the Minnesota Vikings pulled away from Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons 42-21 yesterday for their sixth straight victory.

Darnold added another highlight to his brilliant first season in Minnesota following the departure of Cousins in free agency to Atlanta with a 22-for-28 performance and no turnover-worthy plays despite heavy first-half pressure.

Darnold passed for 250 yards after halftime to help the Vikings (11-2) break a 21-all tie early in the fourth quarter and stay one game behind NFC North-leading Detroit with a final-week matchup looming with the Lions. Jordan Addison had eight catches for 133 yards and three scores and Justin Jefferson racked up seven receptions for 132 yards and two touchdowns after going the past six games without scoring.

Cousins threw two more interceptions without a touchdown in his return to Minnesota, where he was greeted by loud boos and left with Atlanta’s fourth consecutive loss to tumble out of first place in the NFC South and fall one game behind Tampa Bay.

EAGLES 22, PANTHERS 16

PHILADELPHIA (AP)

— Saquon Barkley rushed for 124 yards to break the Eagles season record, Jalen Hurts threw two touchdown passes and ran for a score, and Philadelphia won its ninth straight game over Carolina.

The Eagles (11-2) maintained their position as the No. 2 team in the NFC, behind Detroit (12-1), after a mostly lethargic effort against the Panthers (3-10).

Barkley added another milestone in his MVP push when he used a 9-yard run in the fourth quarter to surpass LeSean McCoy’s Eagles record of 1,607 yards, set in 2013. Barkley now has 1,623 yards with four games left.

A 12 1/2-point underdog according to BetMGM Sportsbook, the Panthers played more like a team with playoff seeding at stake.

STEELERS 27, BROWNS 14

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Russell Wilson threw for 158 yards and two touchdowns as Pittsburgh pulls away from mistake-prone Cleveland.

The Steelers (10-3) beat Cleveland at home during the regular season for the

CALENDAR FROM PAGE 15

will be sent out Tuesday, December 10 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).

ANDROS HEAT

ROAD RACE

THE Andros Heats has announced that its fifth annual road race will take

21st straight time, even with leading receiver George Pickens watching from the sideline while missing the first game of his career due to a groin injury.

While it took Wilson a while to get going with the productive if volatile Pickens out of the mix, he found his footing in the second half by connecting on touchdown passes to Pat Freiermuth and Van Jefferson as the Steelers moved two games ahead of rival Baltimore for the AFC North lead with four weeks to go.

BUCCANEERS 28, RAIDERS 13 TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Baker Mayfield threw for 295 yards and three touchdowns, helping Tampa Bay beat Las Vegas and take over sole possession of first place in the NFC South.

Mayfield tossed scoring passes of 15 yards and 29 yards to rookie Jalen McMillan. Rachaad White scored on a 5-yard reception and a 3-yard run as the Bucs (7-6) won for the third straight week against a lastplace opponent to revive their hopes for a fourth consecutive division title.

The Raiders (2-11) lost quarterback Aidan O’Connell to a knee injury in addition to extending the NFL’s longest losing streak to nine games.

O’Connell was carted off the field after being shoved to the ground by Bucs defensive lineman Calijah Kancey after throwing a pass late in the third

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.

FAST TRACK WINTER CLASSIC THE Fast Track Athletics Track Club announced that its Fast Track Winter Classic 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

quarter. The quarterback, in his second game back after being sidelined nearly six weeks with a broken thumb, remained on the ground after an 8-yard, third-down completion to Jakobi Meyers. Kancey chased O’Connell out of the pocket toward the Bucs sideline and shoved him from behind after the ball was released.

Kancey was not penalized for a late hit.

DOLPHINS 32, JETS 26, OT MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Tua Tagovailoa threw a 10-yard touchdown pass to Jonnu Smith in overtime and Miami overcame Aaron Rodgers’ first 300-yard passing game in nearly three years to beat New York.

After Jason Sanders tied it with 7 seconds left in regulation with a 42-yard field goal, Tagovailoa quickly moved the Dolphins (6-7) down the field and they beat the Jets for the ninth straight time in Miami. That came after Anders Carlson gave the struggling Jets (3-10) — who were eliminated from postseason contention for the 14th straight year — the lead with a 42-yarder with 52 seconds remaining.

But Malik Washington put the Dolphins in great position to help set up Sanders’ field goal with a 45-yard kickoff return to Miami’s 46-yard line. Tagovailoa was 33 of 47 for 331 yards and two TDs. He had just one incompletion on

or Fast Track Management for more information.

TRACK BAAA ODD

DISTANCE MEET

THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations has announced that its Odd Distance Track and Field Meet will be held on Saturday, December 14 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium. The event will allow field competitors to compete in field events from shorter approaches and track events will be either shorter or longer than the traditional track events.

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

Miami’s eight-play, 70-yard scoring drive that was capped by Smith’s fourth touchdown of the season.

Smith didn’t have a catch before catching three for 44 yards on the winning drive.

Rodgers was 27 of 39 for 339 yards, ending a drought of 34 regular-season games without a 300-yard passing game — dating to Dec. 12, 2021, while with Green Bay — and had a TD pass to Davante Adams.

JAGUARS 10, TITANS 6 NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tank Bigsby ran for an 8-yard touchdown with 6:46 left as Jacksonville snaps a five-game skid and ends Tennessee’s slim playoff hopes.

Jacksonville (3-10) came in already eliminated with Trevor Lawrence out for the rest of this season. The Jaguars leave with only their second victory in the past 11 trips to Music City and second in the past three.

The Titans (3-10) came in needing to win out to even have a chance of their first playoff berth since the 2021 season ended with a divisional loss on their home field. Tennessee has fired both a general manager and coach since then.

SAINTS 14, GIANTS 11

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Brian Bresee leaped over the Giants’ line to block a potential tying field goal with 11 seconds left, and New Orleans held on for a victory over New

place at Sealy’s Backyard in Sea Breeze Lane from 6pm. Prizes and surprises will be given out all night long.

NPVA VOLLEYBALL

THE New Providence Volleyball Association continued its regular season action yesterday at the DW Davis Gymnasium with a key matchup between the two men’s Technician teams. In what turned out to be a real competitive matchup in the lone game played, the Technicians B team pulled off a five-set thriller over the Technician A team. The set scores were 29-27, 25-17, 24-26, 21-25 and 17-15.

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,

by halftime. Charbonnet broke a tackle at midfield and sprinted 51 yards for a touchdown with 2:36 left in the second quarter.

The 23-year-old Charbonnet thrived in an increased role, taking over for injured starter Kenneth Walker III. The secondyear player also caught seven passes for 59 yards. Smith completed 24 of 30 passes.

49ERS 38, CHICAGO 13

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Brock Purdy threw for 325 yards and two touchdowns and San Francisco bounced back from two blowout losses to beat Chicago and spoil interim coach Thomas Brown’s debut for the Bears.

The 49ers (6-7) had been outscored by 53 points the past two weeks in losses at Green Bay and Buffalo that left their playoff hopes teetering with several stars such as Christian McCaffrey, Nick Bosa and Trent Williams sidelined by injuries.

York after losing quarterback Derek Carr to an injury late in the fourth quarter. The Giants lost their eighth straight, one shy of the team record.

Carr, who finished 20 of 31 for 219 yards, was hurt with just under four minutes to play when he dived for a first down near the Saints 40 and landed hard. He left the field shortly after the play and it almost cost the Saints (5-8).

New York got the ball back at its 27 with 1:21 to play and drove to the Saints 12, with Drew Lock scrambling for 25 yards on fourth down and then finding Malik Nabers for 23 yards. The Giants tried twice to throw to the end zone for a winning touchdown before sending out Graham Gano to try to force overtime. Gano’s kick was a little low and the Giants couldn’t defend the jumping Breese, who got a hand on the ball.

SEAHAWKS 30, CARDINALS 18 GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Zach Charbonnet ran for a career-high 134 yards and two touchdowns, Geno Smith threw for 233 yards and a score, and Seattle beat Arizona to remain atop the NFC West. The Seahawks (8-5) won their fourth straight and swept the season series from the Cardinals (6-7). They have won seven in a row against their division rival.

Seattle shook off an early deficit to take a 24-10 lead

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

But San Francisco delivered a performance more reminiscent of a year ago when the Niners went to the Super Bowl, handing the Bears (4-9) their seventh straight loss.

Purdy delivered his third 300-yard passing game of the season with two TDs to Jauan Jennings, fill-in back Isaac Guerendo gained 128 yards from scrimmage and scored on two TD runs and George Kittle had six catches for 151 yards. That helped deliver the highestscoring game of the season for the 49ers.

RAMS 44, BILLS 42 INGLEWOOD, California (AP) — Matthew Stafford passed for 320 yards and hit Puka Nacua for a 19-yard touchdown with 1:54 to play, and Los Angeles overcame Josh Allen’s record six-touchdown performance to snap the Buffalo Bills’ sevengame winning streak with a victory.

Allen passed for 342 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 82 yards and three more scores for the Bills (10-3), who hadn’t lost since October 6 in Houston.

He became the first player in NFL history with three passing TDs and three rushing TDs in a game. Allen capped his third long touchdown drive of the fourth quarter by scoring on a 1-yard dive with 1:00 left.

But Ronnie Rivers recovered the onside kick and Los Angeles (7-6) ran out the clock on its first win over Buffalo since 2012 and its first at home since 1983.

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 Thomas Sears at 424-2888 or email 242softball@gmail. com or Brent Stubbs at 4267265 or email stubbobs@ gmail.com

MINNESOTA Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons yesterday in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)

By DAVID SMALE Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo.

(AP) — Matthew Wright kicked a 31-yard field goal that banked off the left upright as time expired, and the Kansas City Chiefs survived another close game, beating the Los Angeles Chargers 19-17 last night to win their ninth straight AFC West title. Patrick Mahomes led the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs (12-1) on a clock-killing 4 1/2-minute drive to set up Wright’s fourth field goal. It looked routine until the ball clanged off the upright in the latest narrow escape for Kansas City, which has won 10 games by a one-score margin.

Kansas City’s nine straight division titles are two short of the New England Patriots’ NFL record of 11. The Chiefs led 13-0 at halftime after the Chargers (8-5) punted on their first six possessions, but Justin Herbert and LA woke up in the second half, scoring on each of their three drives.

Cameron Dicker’s 37-yard field goal put the Chargers ahead 17-16 with 4:35 left.

Mahomes then went to work, hitting Xavier Worthy for 14 yards on third-and-10 and scrambling for another first down.

After the two-minute warning, Mahomes scrambled, dodged a would-be tackle and lobbed a throw to a kneeling Travis Kelce that allowed the Chiefs to run the clock down to zero.

‘BUDDY’ HIELD SCORES 27 WITH THREE STEALS AS WARRIORS BEAT TIMBERWOLVES 114-106

By JANIE MCCAULEY AP Sports Writer

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Stephen Curry sunk a 39-foot jumper from nearly halfcourt to beat the thirdquarter buzzer and finished with 30 points and eight assists, leading the Golden State Warriors past the Minnesota Timberwolves 114-106 last night in the teams’ second meeting over three days.

Curry found Jonathan Kuminga for a go-ahead dunk with 2:55 to play and hit Buddy Hield for a clutch 3-pointer at the 58-second mark.

Hield scored 27 points, including consecutive 3-pointers midway through the third that tied the game at 69 and another that put Golden State ahead. Hield had seven 3s and is one shy of becoming the 17th player in NBA history to reach 2,000.

Kuminga had 20 points and seven rebounds.

Anthony Edwards scored 27 points as Minnesota’s four-game winning streak ended.

Takeaways Timberwolves: G Rob Dillingham missed his fourth straight game with a sprained right ankle and

fifth consecutive overall.

... Minnesota had won five straight in the series.

Warriors: Andrew Wiggins was out with a troublesome right ankle that limited him Friday.

Key moments

Draymond Green was whistled for a foul 13 seconds into the second half on which a driving Rudy Gobert grabbed at the left side of his face. The Warriors challenged and it was determined on review that Green had made contact with the big man’s eye.

Key stats

After Hield’s 3-pointer started Golden State’s scoring in the second quarter, Curry had 10 straight points, including consecutive 3s. Curry hit another 3-pointer 53 seconds before halftime, moments after Gary Payton II blocked Julius Randle’s shot.

Up next Minnesota hosts the Lakers on Friday in a game added to the schedule after the Timberwolves missed advancing to the NBA Cup knockout rounds.

The Warriors play at Houston on Wednesday in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, having beaten the Rockets in 15 straight meetings and eight in a row on the road.

Champions emerge in the Best-ofthe-Best Regatta at Montagu Bay

FROM PAGE 15

the rest of the way for a comfortable victory.

Knowles outlined his strategy used to win Class A. “Initially, when the race started we were in third. The Ruff Justice was ahead and the New Legend was in second and we were in third but we made a good tact and we got some favourable wind and we were able to catch them both.

“Coming down on the bed, I was trying to stay in the back of the Ruff Justice but, at the last minute, it looked like they stopped and I went straight around the buoy ahead of them. I really wasn’t expecting that but after that the race was basically over,” he said.

Knowles and the Running Tide were dethroned by Exuma’s Silent Partner, captained by Leslie “Buzzy” Rolle, in last year’s Class A race. However, this time around Knowles managed to bring the crown back to Long Island despite battling the flu.

“They usually get one here and there. They sailed well last year. Captain Buzzy is always a fierce competitor and every time you go out there to race you have to beat him if you want to win,” Knowles said.

COMETS

FROM PAGE 15

“The cross country helped because now you could identify some of the stronger kids. It’s always good to know the kids that you will be picking for the team for BAISS. That definitely helps me to identify some of our long distance kids, some of our fighters and persons who you know you could depend on.

“This team I can depend on, mentally it helps us moving forward and it helps the kids to get their confidence and it helps some of the kids to now want to compete for BAISS or do it again. Hopefully, this carries on to the track season

TRIPLE

B and C

According to him, this is his third time winning the triple crown at the event and he compared his performance on the final day to the Michael Jordan “flu game.”

Knowles’ Susan Chase V repeated as the first place finisher in Class B. Ants

and hopefully we can do the same thing,” he said. Ross Martin, of Temple Christian, crossed the finish line in first place in the under-20 boys’ event. He clocked a winning time of 11:26.02. Finishing second was Lyford Cay’s Matthew Stuby with a time of 11:32.66. The third spot went to Temple Christian’s Breck Kemp who finished with a time of 11:55.30. Alexis Roberts, representing SAC, stormed her way to a win in the under-20 girls’ event in 13:43.82. Her schoolmate Jayda Rahming was right behind for second in 13:54.38. QC’s Akaree Robert got the third podium spot in 14:28.22.

Nest II came in at second overall and third place went to Ole Boy.

Sassie Sue also got victory in Class C once again. The Whitty K got the second podium spot and third place went to the Bul Reg. The Lady Kayla, skippered by Joss Knowles,

SAC head coach Jason Edwards said the goal was to use cross country as a measuring stick for the track and field season.

“I normally use cross country as a tool to see which kids are highly competitive and which kids can perform in the longer distances like 1,500 metres and up. I look at those types of things I do not really strategise or load up in any category. My goal in cross country is not to load up and try to win it, it is to prepare for the big dance. I put value on the big dance in March and I use cross country as a measuring stick to see who can do what in the distance races and how I am gonna manoeuvre,” he said.

claimed the first spot in the E Class. One Bahamas trailed for second in the event and Mako was third overall.

Chester Fox, commodore of the Best-of-the-Best Regatta, was pleased with how the event ran over the weekend.

Versatile performer Issa Bournas got the first place finish for Lyford Cay in the under-17 girls’ event. She bested competitors with a winning time of 13:27.85. Yulianas Akompi, of SAC, trailed for second in 13:47.04. Jade Knowles, of QC, secured the third place finish in 14:07.34.

Triathlete Malcolm Menzies had a strong performance in the under-17 boys’ event. He ended the race in 11:09.02 for the top spot. Kayden Thurston, representing CW Saunders, fell behind to second with a time of 11:27.82. Windsor’s Donald Bain settled for the bronze medal spot in 11:34.01.

“I was really happy with today. The weather was a little windy but still good conditions for sailing. All the races were really competitive in the E, C, B and A classes. The races could have gone either way but I guess the best boat prevailed. Overall, I thought

It was all Windsor once again in the first and second positions of the under-15 girls’ event. Emma Johnson wrapped in first place with a time of 8:23.50 and her schoolmate Isabelle Kennedy was second overall in 8:43.80. SAC’s Daveigh Farrington was a few steps behind at 8:49.15 for third in the event. Cordell Munroe, representing St John’s College, outran his competitors in the under-15 boys’ category. He clinched the first position with a time of 7:13.19. QC secured the second and third spot. Shawne Ferguson cruised in with a time of 7:18.17 for second place and Ayden Russell in 7:18.63 for third.

we had a really good day of racing. All in all, competition was fierce and I am quite pleased and I think the event was a really good success,” he said. The final night ended with Bahamian festivities on the Best-of-Best Regatta site.

Haleel Munnings, of Jordan Prince William, was the victor in the under-13 girls’ event with a time of 8:48.73. The Comets’ Victoria Sandi-Aguilar fell to the second spot, stopping the time at 8:51.58. Temple Christian’s Ariel Thompson was third in the event, clocking 8:56.13. Temple Christian’s L’Qwan Sands was the top finisher in the under-13 boys’ event. He ran a time of 7:58.57. Timur Kenan, of Windsor, got the silver medal position in 8:11.02. Ramonick McLennon, of JPW, rounded out the top three with his time of 8:16.50.

CROWN: Long Island sailor Stefan Knowles - for the third time in the event’s history - came away as a triple crown champion, emerging victorious in Class A,

events at the seventh Best-of-the-Best Regatta in Montagu Bay.

Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr

GOLDEN State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) reacts after making a 3-point basket against the Minnesota during the second half of an NBA basketball game last night in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)

Caribbean Baseball Cup: Bahamas vs Cuba in title game tonight

FROM PAGE 15

as they produced three runs in the bottom of the frame to take the lead as Kaizen Dorsett was hit by a pitch, Colton Cubbage grounded into a fielder’s choice and Khayle Watkins walked, each scoring a run.

The Bahamas put the game out of reach in the second inning, scoring nine runs, highlighted by Mario Dean’s two-run producing single and Ajay Knowles’ three-run home run to centre field.

And in the third, The Bahamas put four more runs on the scoreboard to complete the rout.

Ajay Knowles finished with a 1-for-1 night at the plate with his three-run homer and two runs scored

to lead the Bahamas’ offensive attack. Jordan Archer was 1-for-2 with a triple and four runs scored; Malique Israel was 1-for-1 with two runs scored; Mario Dean was 1-for-2 with two RBI and a run scored and Marlon Bostwick was 1-for-1 with three RBI and a run scored. Kaylin Ferguson was the winning pitcher on a onehitter with five strikeouts and a pair of walks.

For St Maarten, Jaytan Cordilla went 1-for-2, scoring their only run, while Rigadon Raap, one of four pitchers used in the game, suffered the loss.

Cuba 10, USVI 0

Taking advantage of some costly errors by the US Virgin Islands, Cuba only posted five hits, but it

was enough to seal the deal as they scored five runs in both the first and second innings.

Marcos del Toro was responsible for driving in three runs and José Muñiz drove in another. Silveiro Asosta was the winning pitcher with four hits and eight strikeouts. Anerae Mason suffered the loss.

Miguel Chirino Fndez led Cuba’s offensive attack with a 1-for-3 night with a double and a run scored; Christin Aguilera Garcia was 1-for-2 with two runs scored; Antonio A. Nolazco was 1-for-2 with two runs scored and Jose A. Jimenez was 1-for-2 with run scored. For the USVI, Anerae Mason, Roshard Lewis, Jahsani George and D’Waine Gumbs all went

1-for-4, but neither could cross home plate with a run. Bahamas 11, Cuba 8

After falling behind 5-0 to Cuba in the first inning, The Bahamas rallied to put three runs in the second and eight in the third to take control of the game on Friday night.

Cuba came back with one in the fourth and two more in the sixth to extend the game to the full seven innings.

Colton Cubbage led the attack for The Bahamas, going 4-for-4 with two RBI and run scored; Mario Dean was 2-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored; Jordan Archer went 1-for-3 with a double, two RBI and a run scored; Malique Israel was 1-for-3 with two RBI and a run scored and

Marlon Bostwick was also 1-for-3 with a run scored. Liam Eneas, one of three pitchers used in the game, got the win for The Bahamas. Velez J. Roque, one of four pitchers for Cuba, was tagged with the loss. USVI 17, St Maarten 8

After both teams scored five runs apiece in the first inning, the US Virgin Islands got three more runs in the second, one in the fourth and five in the fifth before Sint Maarten got two more in the sixth. The USVI closed the door in their Friday night encounter with three in the seventh, but St Maarten could only get one additional run in the frame. Jaytan Cordilla was 1-for-3 with a RBI and a run scored; Malik Hyman

was 1-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored; Rigadon Raap was 1-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored; Kension Marsdin was 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored and Jahmai Perez was 0-for-3 with two RBI and a run scored. Di’John Rios was the winning pitcher and Yaedon Martie was the losing pitcher. In a losing effort, Keshawn Callwood was 3-for-4 with a double, four RBI and four runs scored; Jorge Pantoja was 3-for-4 with a triple, three RBI and a run scored and Roshard Lewis was 3-for-4 with an RBI and four runs scored. Today’s finale 4pm - Sint Maarten vs US Virgin Islands - bronze medal game. 8pm - Cuba vs Bahamasgold medal game.

NEW PROVIDENCE CYCLING ASSOCIATION AWARDS MOST OUTSTANDING PERFORMERS

FROM PAGE 15

Musgrove said normally, it’s not the best cyclists who end up winning the awards, but rather it’s the cyclists who are the most consistent in participating in their events.

“Some cyclists, who are not as good as the top cyclists, rode in all of the events, so they gained their points,” Musgrove pointed out.

“So we want to encourage them and all of the cyclists who competed, even if they were not the fastest of the crew.”

Although he emerged as the top elite male cyclist, Kevin Daley admitted that he could have performed much better than he did.

“It started off kind of slow, but it turned out pretty good,” he said. “I had some injuries that set me back, but overall I got a new bike, so next year should be better.”

Veteran Jay Major, one of his arch-rivals, said he was able to accomplish his goal, so he was satisfied with second place overall.

“My main goal was the Nationals and I pretty much did what I had to do there,” he said. “So I’m looking forward to next year and

hopefully getting ready for some international competition and hopefully a good season overall.”

Llaria Gervasini was the open women’s winner, but she admitted that she would have liked to have some more competition to compete against. “It was pretty good, but I made the best out of it,” said Gervasini, who has been cycling for the past six years. “I’m enjoying it.” Sierra Culmer-Mackey, a 18-year-old accounting major at the University

of the Bahamas, was the under-23 female winner.

She attributed her success to her fitness level from competing in multiple sporting disciplines.

“I started about four years ago and I constantly see myself getting better and better,” said CulmerMackey, a swimmer who also competes in triathlons.

“I still have a lot more improvement to go.”

Barron Musgrove Jr was the male under-23 winner.

He noted that his hard work is finally paying off

for him. “I travelled to Barbados for the CARIFTA cycling. It was good,” said the 19-year-old criminal justice student at UB as well. “I plan on traveling a lot next year to compete again.”

As a 17-year-old student of a boarding school in England, Erin Pritchard said she’s delighted every opportunity she gets to come home to compete, winning the girls’ 15-17 age group. “I was very proud of my performance because it’s

been a really rough season considering that I’ve been away in school,” she said. “But coming back, I’ve tried my best and I’ve done very well, winning the nationals. Hopefully I can come back and win it again next year.”

order of their finish were:

Senior 1/lite MaleKevin Daley, Jay Major, Patrick Paul, Justin Higgs, John Cox, Felix Nelly and Gordon McKenzie.

Senior 2 Male - Tyrone Paul Jr and Eddie Bethell,

Senior Masters Male 62 & Over - Calude Robert,. Masters Male - Andrew Cates, Wayne Price, Dwayne Adderley, Dlrian Roach, Mackey Williams and Mark Roberts. Open women - Ilaria Gervasini, Halcyon Opal Adderley, Lynn Prithcard, Carol Collyer and Mariijia Brueckner.

Under-23 women - Sienna Culmer-Mackey.

Under-23 male - Barron Musgrove Jr.

Boys 15-17 - Malcolm Menzies and Brian Burrows.

Boys 12-14 - Tristan Johnson, Laucian Menzies, Nathaniel Adderley, Callum Pritchard, Torion Turner, Kendrick Cargill, Khail Bain, Javon Oliver and Mathis Bournas.

Boys 9-11 - Fraser Menzies, Lyall Menzies, Anthony Knowles, Maximillian Van Der Riet, Gebriael McPhee, Stanford Sweeting and Enea Gervasini.

Girls 15-17 - Erin Pritchard and Jssa Bournas. Girls 12-14 -Taylor Knowles, Mia Van Der Piet, Emma Barigelli, Blue Gray, Ella Breuckner, Hailey Roberts, Naia Belton. Gillian Albury and Taylen Nichols.Girls 9-11 - Trenae Smith.

ON THE REPLAY: The Bahamas pulled off a huge 11-8 decision over Cuba to push their record to 3-0 on Friday night. Cuba dropped to 2-1.

Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr

SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER ENDS HIS BIG YEAR IN BAHAMAS WITH HIS 9TH VICTORY

NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Scottie Scheffler returned from a two-month break and nothing changed. He won the Hero World Challenge yesterday with a 9-under 63 to tie the tournament record at Albany Golf Club and win by six shots.

Scheffler, the first player since Tiger Woods in 2009 to spend an entire calendar year at No. 1 in the world, won for the ninth time in 21 starts, a tally that included a second Masters title, an Olympic gold medal and the FedEx Cup.

He started the final round one shot behind Justin Thomas, took the lead on the par-5 third hole, stayed in front with a 50-foot birdie putt on No. 4 and never looked back.

Tom Kim tried to stay close until he missed a 19-inch par putt on the par-5 11th. He birdied the final hole for a 68 and was runner-up when Thomas, whose faint hopes ended with a bogey on the 18th, drove into the water on the 18th for another bogey. He shot 71 and finished third.

Scheffler finished at 25-under 263 to tie the tournament record at Albany

first set by Bubba Watson in 2015, and his six-shot victory was the largest in the nine years Tiger Woods’ holiday tournament has been held in the Bahamas.

Jordan Spieth holds the tournament records for 72-hole score (262) and margin (10 shots) the one year it was held at Isleworth in 2014.

“Very satisfying,” Scheffler said. “I did a lot of good stuff today on the course. It feels nice to take a break and come back and continue to play some really solid golf.”

Already the best in golf, Scheffler brought a new “claw” putting grip to the Hero World Challenge in a bid to get even better. He used the grip on putts from about 15 feet and in, and he finished the week third in the key putting statistic against a 20-man field.

“He really doesn’t do anything wrong,” tournament host Tiger Woods said in the NBC booth during the final round.

What reminded Woods of his own great run — and there was a lot of them for Woods — was how few mistakes Scheffler makes during a round or a tournament. Albany was another example. He made only two bogeys over 72 holes.

Thomas, whose last victory was the 2022 PGA Championship at Southern Hills, started well enough. He also dropped two early shots on the par 3s and twice had duffed chips, one of them on the par-5 ninth that kept him from making birdie in a bid to keep up with Scheffler.

Scheffler had a three-shot lead with three holes to play when he made a rare mistake off the tee, finding a sandy area right of the fairway. He made clean contact out of the sand to 12 feet for birdie, while Thomas went just long and over the green, leading to bogey.

Still to come for Scheffler is teaming up with Rory McIlroy in a made-for-TV match at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas on December 17 to face LIV Golf stars

Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka.

Scheffler earned $1 million for winning the unofficial tournament. That was his smallest paycheck of the year for winning except for the Olympics — the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee paid gold medalists $37,500. He joined Viktor Hovland as the only backto-back winners at Albany. Woods won back-to-back, and a total of five times, when the tournament was held at Sherwood Country Club.

Kim lives in Dallas and used to play with Scheffler all the time before Scheffler’s wife gave birth to their first child. Kim knows what to expect.

“It’s not where we home and shoots even par, 1 over, and he comes out here and wins,” Kim said. “He does it all the time. I think the biggest thing that I see is that he’s always trying to get better. Despite winning nine times this year, he’s always finding little ways and I think it’s really, really cool to see and you can take a lot from that.”

In the last 40 years, Scheffler’s winning rate of 43% worldwide is third behind Woods in 2006 (nine wins in 19 starts) and Woods in 2002 (10 wins in 22 starts).

“I never really played golf for legacy. That’s not something I think about day to day. I play because I love

the competition,” Scheffler said. “I like trying to get the most out of myself out here on the golf course. That’s why I’m always trying to improve, trying to do little things to get better he golf course.

“I don’t think about records, I don’t think about achievements, wins, losses, I just try and get the most out of myself and come out here and compete and have a good attitude.”

What next?

“Continue to work on the stuff in the offseason and get ready for next season,” Scheffler said.

SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER, of the United States, tees off on the 18th hole during the final round of the Hero World Challenge yesterday.

SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER, of the United States, poses with the championship trophy yesterday after the final round of the Hero World Challenge PGA Tour at the Albany Golf Club. (AP Photos/Fernando Llano)

JUSTIN THOMAS, of the United States, tees off on the third hole during the final round.

TOM KIM, of South Korea, makes a birdie on the third hole during the final round.