The Tribune houSe & hoMe
Family mourns murder victim
Man found dead with head injuries outside home on Minnie Street
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter
lrolle@tribunemedia.net
NIMROD Thompson, 41, lost his life following a workplace altercation that turned deadly, leaving his family grieving the death of another young relative taken too soon. Thompson, affectionately known as “Nimmy” from the Montel Heights community, was found dead with head injuries outside a home near Minnie Street early Saturday morning. Police said he and another man were involved in a fight at a nearby bar that escalated. During the altercation, Thompson
Dementia cases expecteD to surge by 226 percent
By KEILE CAMPBELL
Tribune Staff Reporter
kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
DEMENTIA cases in
The Bahamas are expected to surge by 226 percent by 2050, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International. This highlights the need for a comprehensive national strategy to address the issue, according to
Saying farewell to Adriel
Wence Martin, director of the Bahamas Alzheimer’s Association, who highlighted the situation during his guest appearance at the Rotary Club’s Nassau Yacht Club meeting on Friday. He emphasised that the current estimate of 2,000 people living with dementia in The Bahamas is likely
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
GRIEF hung heavy over the dozens that gathered on Saturday to mourn Adriel Moxey, the promising 12-year-old whose violent
Wilson
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter
lrolle@tribunemedia.net
BAHAMAS Union of Teachers (BUT) president Belinda Wilson warned of industrial action if government fails to address concerns over the proposed bi-weekly pay schedule. Her latest threat comes amid an ongoing dispute between the government and public servants over the
murder stunned the nation. Adriel lay peacefully in an open casket, her small body dressed in a white shirt and purple skirt, a pink fascinator perched on her head. A Bible rested beside her while a box filled with heart-shaped messages
of love lay at her feet. Her mother, Sasha Moxey, mirrored her daughter’s outfit, her strength wavering as she tenderly touched Adriel’s face for the last time before
Belinda Wilson
family, friends and well wishers attend the funeral of young Adriel Moxey who was found raped and killed in November after being
Photo: nikia Charlton
Saying farewell to Adriel Moxey
the casket was closed.
At Restoration Kingdom Ministries, a recording of Ms Moxey echoed through the sanctuary.
“I thought about you today, and sadness came to know I would never see you again, so I cherish the memory,” she said. “Love you forever, girly.”
A seventh-grader at Anatol Rodgers High School, beloved by classmates and teachers alike, Adriel’s life had been one of promise and vibrancy. But it ended in horror. On November 20, her lifeless body was discovered in bushes near Faith Avenue South, clad only in a shirt, with a cloth tied around her neck. Police confirmed she had been sexually assaulted and strangled, sparking outrage across the nation and calls for swift justice.
The funeral was both a celebration of her short life and a reckoning with the profound failures that left her unprotected.
Principal Andrew Dean described her as “a bright light in our community”,
her joy a gift to all who knew her. “She had a way of making everyone feel valued and appreciated, leaving an impression that will not soon be forgotten,” he said. Representatives from her youth organisation, College Club Bahamas, shared similar reflections, promising that Adriel’s memory would endure.
Relatives sang, dancers moved with solemn grace, and prayers rose for strength amid the devastation.
Government officials struck a tone of sorrow and urgency. Energy Minister JoBeth ColebyDavis, speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Philip Davis, called Adriel’s death “unbearable”, urging the community to unite in protecting children.
“Whenever precious children are involved, our first instinct should be to rush to support, not judgment,” she said. “That’s the kind of positive, love filled environment that will give our children the best shot at leading fulfilling lives.”
Her words came as many
who watched the service on social media criticised Ms Moxey’s demeanour during the service as stoic.
“Many times, as a people, we are quicker to click share on a baseless attack on a person’s character than to share our money, our food and our time and energy with someone in need,” she said.
Education Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin called the tragedy a wakeup call.
“This dark moment has exposed the necessity for the implementation and reinforcement of support mechanisms and actions for the safety and wellbeing of children,” she said, urging urgent reflection and action.
Social Services Minister Myles Laroda, who lost a child earlier this year, spoke, offering his condolences and emphasising the preciousness of life.
“During this time of Advent, when we’re supposed to be celebrating with our kids and giving toys, this is a reminder not to take life for granted,” he said.
Dementia cases expected to surge by 226 percent
conservative, as many cases remain undiagnosed due to social stigma and limited awareness.
He shared memories of his aunt, who he described as a highly educated woman pursuing a doctorate degree, when she was diagnosed with dementia at 78.
He said she was a former principal and played ten musical instruments,.
“She was an independent woman, so you can imagine having to now take care of her,” he recalled. “Because she lived in another country, I had to bring her back to The Bahamas because I was living in another country as well, and bringing her back to The Bahamas, she was not aware of her surroundings, and then she looked at me and said, ‘Who are you?’”
The impact of dementia extends beyond the people diagnosed, affecting families and caregivers, according to Mr Martin, who described the emotional and financial toll caregivers bear, noting that they often neglect their own health while tending to loved ones.
He recounted the
challenges of caring for his aunt, whose moments of lucidity laid bare her dwindling will to live.
“As her mental skills and faculties began to decline, she became more irritable, not wanting anyone to touch her, and started asking for her mother, who had passed on six years earlier,” he recalled.
“She said to me in a lucid moment that she didn’t want to live because she doesn’t know who she is and there’s no point in being alive.”
Mr Martin also shared his experience being beside his wife and her battle with cognitive decline, a condition that began manifesting in her 40s, years after her long struggle with cancer.
“She, in her 40s, started to say, ‘Who are you?’” Mr Martin recounted. “This is not a disease for the 70- or 80-year-old, okay, just to dispel that myth.”
“At the time, she assisted me with being a caregiver for my aunt. And of course, my aunt died 2000, and my wife died a few months after.”
According to Mr Martin, The Bahamas’ healthcare infrastructure is currently ill-equipped to manage
the anticipated surge in dementia cases.
He highlighted the shortage of specialists and facilities capable of addressing the complex needs of dementia patients. To address this growing crisis, Mr Martin advocates for the establishment of a National Dementia Strategy, which would include the creation of a dementia registry and the development of specialised care facilities.
Community involvement is pivotal in addressing the dementia crisis, according to Mr Martin.
Mr Martin emphasised the importance of supporting affected families through fundraising efforts, active advocacy, and direct assistance.
“Right now, we have a national cancer registry, but we’re also pushing for a registry for those who are living with dementia, and we will go further,” he said.
“We must raise awareness. Education is the first step in reducing that stigma.”
“Dealing with dementia and dealing with loved ones who don’t recognise you, even after you’ve poured into them, is very sobering.”
Adriel Moxey’s mother, Sasha Moxey, and family members at her funeral service at Restoration Kingdom Ministries on Saturday.
Photos: Nikia Charlton
Four police officers plead not guilty in separate manslaughter charges
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
FOUR police officers pleaded not guilty to manslaughter on Friday related to the killings of 15-yearold boy Gino Finley Jr in 2017 and 31-year-old Azario Major in 2021.
This comes over a year after a Coroner’s Court jury returned an adverse finding of homicide by manslaughter in both cases.
Family members of both deceased men were present during their arraignment in the Supreme Court.
The courtroom was also packed with uniformed officers who showed up to support the accused.
Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson arraigned Police Constable Dennis Sturrup for the fatal shooting of Gino Evante Finley Jr during an alleged armed robbery at Seagrapes Shopping Centre on May 23, 2017.
Evidence presented during the inquest indicated that the teenager, who was
wearing a school uniform, was shot in the back of his head.
Justice Grant Thompson also arraigned Sergeant 2825 Antonio Sweeting, Sergeant 3039 Jamal Johnson, and Sergeant 3726 Deangelo Rolle for fatally shooting Azario Major in his car outside a bar on Fire Trial Road on December 26, 2021.
All four officers pleaded not guilty to their respective
charges.
Keevon Maynard, who represented the officers in Major’s case and substituted for K Melvin Munroe, the lawyer for PC Sturrup, was advised to ensure that Sturrup’s questionnaire was filled by December 17.
PC Sturrup was informed that his matter would proceed to trial before Justice Grant Thompson on May 26, 2025. The officer was informed that his trial date
is set for May 7, 2025 and his case management date is on March 19, 2025.
The officers in the Azario Major case were informed that their trial date would be set before Justice Guillimina Archer Minns on December 18. The questionnaire in their matter will be submitted on the same date.
Justice Thompson advised Mr Maynard to ensure the defendants return on their court dates or risk their bail being forfeited.
Last month, the Coroner’s Court informed the families of slain men Valentino Johnson and Shanton Forbes that a decision on whether the matters would advance to the Supreme Court would be announced at a later date.
The Coroner’s Court also noted that five officers’ cases, previously pending review, were officially closed last month and will not proceed to trial. These include cases involving the deaths of Harold Brown and Richard Brown, Deangelo Evans, Elroy Stubbs, and Ernest Forest.
Man denies he was involved in six atte Mpted Murders in nassau over last two years
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN on Friday denied that he was involved in six attempted murders in New Providence over the last two years and set fire to a prison car.
Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson arraigned Shaquille “Keely” Farrington, 28, on six counts of attempted murder and a single count of causing damage by fire or an explosion.
Farrington faced six additional charges of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
The defendant appeared virtually for his arraignment while on remand at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDCS).
Farrington and accomplices allegedly attempted to kill Desmond Gilbert with a firearm on April 19, 2022, in New Providence.
On that same date, Farrington allegedly attempted to kill Eunice Taylor, Danielle Taylor and Davonte Moss with a handgun.
Farrington pleaded not guilty to all 13 charges against him.
The defendant was informed that his 2022 charges would have a trial date set before Justice Renae McKay on January 16, 2025, while his remaining charges would have their trial date fixed before Guillimina Archer-Minns on December 18. He will remain on remand at BDCS until his next court date.
Farrington, while armed with a mini Draco firearm, is accused of attempting to kill Kesner Lexidor and Trey Theoc at Booze & Tings at Arawak Cay on May 16. Farrington and an accomplice are further accused of intentionally setting fire to a black 2019 Kia Sportage Jeep on May 24. This vehicle, valued at $11,055, belongs to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.
Exuma icon sign unveiled designed by Jamaal Rolle
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
EXUMA residents swelled with national pride on Friday when the island’s new icon sign was unveiled. Island MP Chester Cooper said it would boost Exuma’s tourism brand.
The vibrant sign, which features “EXUMA” in colourful capital letters, is positioned on a platform off Queen’s Highway. It incorporates a sailboat symbol, reflecting the island’s reputation as a sailing hub. Designed by Jamaal Rolle, Ambassador-atLarge for Cultural Affairs, the sign is a symbol of Exuma’s unique identity.
During the unveiling ceremony, Mr Cooper, the Deputy Prime Minister and Tourism Minister, said the icon would become a focal point for Exuma’s tourism brand, providing visitors with a chance to showcase their trip to what he called “the most beautiful place on Earth.”’
“It will become a recognisable brand for Exuma,” he said. “It will become perhaps one of the most visited spots here. It will be priceless PR and marketing for the islands of The
Bahamas throughout the world.”
“In other words, this iconic sign is an extremely positive investment for the people of Exuma that will attract visitors globally and will no doubt yield great returns on investments for the economy and the tourism industry of our island.” Mr Cooper said Friday’s unveiling is just the beginning.
He said the ministry is embracing archipelago art and plans to unveil similar artwork on other inhabited islands, with Cat Island next in line.
He said the iconic signs will meet globally recognized standards, elevating The Bahamas as the ideal artistic destination within the global art world.
“We will not stop until we cover all of them,” he added. “We want this to be a challenge, like the survivors’ challenge, where tourists go to all of the islands and the one who can have a photo of all of them first gets a big prize, a trip or two to Exuma perhaps.” Meanwhile, Mr Rolle expressed pride in his work, saying nothing makes him prouder than creating something iconic for his country.
AzArio MAjor
Minister of Tourism and Aviation Chester Cooper and Ambassador-at-Large for Cultural Affairs and artist Jamaal Rolles in front of the Exuma icon sign.
Photos: Bis
Family mourns murder victim
from page one
reportedly struck the man with a sharp object.
The injured man left the scene, but as Thompson was leaving the area, he was approached by a gunman who shot him before fleeing.
Police later arrested a 22-year-old suspect with facial injuries at the hospital.
Thompson’s killing came just weeks before he was set to celebrate his 42nd birthday. Relatives said he lost his parents at a young age due to natural causes and was raised by his grandparents.
Although Thompson had a troubled past, he reportedly turned his life around several years ago.
Wilson warns industrial action if bi-weekly pay issues not addressed
planned shift.
Although Labour and Public Service Minister Pia GloverRolle recently announced plans to introduce biweekly pay early next year, she later said the timeline for implementation had been extended for further consultation after union leaders expressed shock.
However, in her latest update, Mrs GloverRolle emphasised that the postponement does not indicate the government has changed its position.
She reiterated that the government believes biweekly payments will benefit public servants by providing more consistent cash flow between pay periods.
In a voice note, Ms Wilson said she is still awaiting a response from the Prime Minister regarding concerns about the proposed pay schedule.
She said she had been informed of a meeting for this week that would proceed without key stakeholders, including herself and Bahamas Public Services Union (BPSU) president Kimsley Ferguson.
On Sunday, Mrs GloverRolle confirmed plans for a Tuesday meeting and noted that union leaders had been informed but were reportedly unavailable to attend. She indicated uncertainty about whether the Ministry of Finance had issued a response to the
requested postponement as the union’s notice of their inability to attend was sent after the close of business on Friday, December 13.
As it was still the weekend, she did not anticipate any reply until the Ministry of Finance reopened on Monday.
Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis announced plans to introduce biweekly payments in June as part of a series of public sector reforms.
Ms Wilson said many frustrated civil servants had reached out to oppose the plan.
According to the union president, a survey among BUT members revealed that most rejected the proposal to switch from monthly to bi-weekly payments.
She called for action from the “thousands of civil servants” who are against the planned pay proposal.
“I am requesting that you stay tuned for further information in the new year 2025,” she said. “If this matter is not satisfactorily addressed and resolved in a timely manner, you will be called upon to stand. It is time to stand.”
In response, Mrs GloverRolle said she was unaware of the “thousands of public servants” that Ms Wilson claims reject bi-weekly payments. However, she added: “If that is the verifiable facts, I am certain that the government will be prepared to comply with the public servants wishes.”
“He’s really made a 360 and had a clean slate and was on his way, so at this point of time, it’s a saddened event,” his cousin, who declined to give her name, told The Tribune
His death is a blow to the close-knit family, who are still mourning the loss of a cousin who was killed at a club around the same time last year.
“We’re all (four) sisters’ children and we all grew up close because we didn’t have parents,” the cousin said. “Back in time, our parents died when we were very small and I mean like under ten and we would survive between our grandparents in Montel Heights.
“Our grandparents are all dead now. It’s basically just cousins. We only have one aunty alive in our whole generation.”
The family is unsure what sparked the fight, despite unconfirmed
reports that the men were arguing over a parking space.
Photos of the man Thompson allegedly fought with circulated online, showing him bruised and bloody.
However, the family claimed they were told that the man was the one who attacked Thompson first.
“It’s sad. It’s senseless,” the cousin said, “I’m still numb because it’s mindbaffling for people to just wake up and make up their mind that they gone kill someone.”
Relatives described Thompson as a passive, well-loved person who would do anything for his family.
They recalled seeing him for the last time late Friday evening at the house, just moments before he left for work.
His death brings the country’s murder count to 117 for the year, according to The Tribune’s records.
NIMROD ThOMpsON
from page one
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
LEON E. H. DUPUCH
SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
Publisher/Editor 1919-1972
Contributing Editor 1972-1991
RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
Publisher/Editor 1972-
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When was the last time you stopped to think?
When’s the last time you saw a pundit pause?
When President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter, who was convicted of three felony charges, the pardon was startling because Biden repeatedly pledged before the election that he would respect the federal jury’s conviction.
As the news broke of the president’s decision, liberal political analyst Molly Jong-Fast was asked on live television for a “fast and furious” reaction to the pardon of Hunter Biden. Jong-Fast paused for a moment, then said, “I just heard it. I have to process it. I don’t have a take. I’m sorry.”
That became a story. Several newsoutlets adopted the Fox News headline that a prominent liberal commentator was rendered “speechless,” “gobsmacked” by the pardon. The next day, conservative commentator Megyn Kelly featured the clip on her Sirius XM program as a “very fun example” of liberal hypocrisy. But Jong-Fast wasn’t speechless. She said she hadn’t yet formulated a response and needed time to do so. This is a responsible position to take in the midst of breaking news.
Yet it was treated as a political failing.
The negative reaction to Jong-Fast’s caution reveals a troubling trend in American democracy. People are captivated by the “hot take,” the “call out,” the “clap back,” the immediate verdict. That makes for shallow analysis that largely repeats familiar ideas.
But responsible political judgment requires reflection, and reflection takes time.
As I argue in my new book “Civic Solitude: Why Democracy Needs Distance,” the trouble is that our social environments are primed to short-circuit our thinking. They engage our reflexes while suppressing our judgment. Here’s how. We humans are all subject to a cognitive dynamic known as belief polarization. This is the tendency for individuals to adopt more extreme perspectives as a result of their interactions with like-minded peers. When we shift toward more radical views, we become more inclined to dismiss anyone who does not agree with us as ignorant, irrational and devious.
But that’s not all. Our more extreme selves are also more “groupish” – that is, more conformist, more eager to fit in with our peers.
In other words, as we become more polarized in our beliefs, we become more invested in asserting our status within our group. We become hardliners and thus less tolerant of deviation among our allies.
As belief polarization escalates, we feel more pressure to conform. Hesitation begins to look like disloyalty. Even a momentary reluctance to affirm the party line signals to allies that our commitment to the group is wavering. Accordingly, we become more inclined simply to adopt the opinions that are popular among our peers – we decide
what to think by mimicking our allies.
Meanwhile, our associates are subject to the same dynamics. The result is groupthink, where a network of like-minded people come to express opinions that have their source in groupish dynamics rather than facts and evidence.
Add to this that our everyday social environments are increasingly segregated along partisan lines. It is no exaggeration to say that in the United States today, opposing partisans live in different social worlds.
For example, liberals and conservatives live in different kinds of neighborhoods, shop at different stores, purchase different products, drive different vehicles, express different aesthetic preferences, work in different occupations and form different kinds of family groups. They eat different foods. They understand words differently, and even exhibit different patterns of pronunciation.
The familiar narrative of “red” and “blue” states goes far deeper than geography. In the United States today, political affiliation is more of a lifestyle than an outlook on the purposes of government. Our day-to-day lives are saturated with triggers of our partisan group loyalties. These conditions then trigger the groupish dynamics of belief polarization. This in turn means that we’re primed to act quickly in conformity with perceived group expectations, while also being less disposed to step back and think for ourselves.
To be clear, as a philosopher who focuses on democracy and civic ethics, I know that democracy needs engaged citizens. It is our duty to be civically vigilant, to be involved in the processes that shape political circumstances.
No doubt, the free press plays a central role in democracy. Reporters, pundits and analysts keep us informed while also providing their various perspectives on political matters.
However, it is possible to overemphasize the active elements of democracy. The demand for fast and furious judgment is a call for democracy conducted by partisan talking points and scripted taglines. It’s as if all of life were to be conducted in a spin room.
No less crucial for the democratic project is a citizenry that is thoughtful and reflective. This means that we cannot always rely on our familiar partisan reflexes. Especially when dealing with an unexpected political development, we need to step back and revise our stance. But thought and reflection take time. Our current modes of politics allow for neither.
Jong-Fast’s reaction was no democratic failure. It was an affirmation of one of democracy’s most important civic values: reasoned judgment.
Robert B. Talisse Vanderbilt University
Israel is America’s attack dog
EDITOR, The Tribune. MIDDLE East: American and Western Diplomacy at work, that is what it is folks. The small nation of Israel is now officially America’s Attack Dog in the region. Destroy Hamas, Damage Hezbollah, Threaten Iran and bomb Syria. The Western World, with America, the UK and France in particular determined to keep their troops out of the mess, yet stirring the pot energetically.
President elect Donald Trump promised American Troops need to stay home unless America is attacked. UK fighters act in black ops fashion, while Frances Foreign Legion and Specialists are busy putting out flames in Africa. The United Nations is no where to be seen as a military force, and fundamentalist Islam is re-establishing itself in Syria, Iraq and North Africa.
Israel is dependent upon American handouts to maintain its military and economy, so Israeli leadership will do whatever
it is asked to do, bomb whomever deserves being bombed, as long as the money continues to flow into Israel. Gaza will be soon conquered, and Lebanon still faces multiple bombing missions and Israeli troops on their soil unmoved. Egypt’s military leadership remain watchful but also unmoved to help their neighbours. America sends billions to Egypt annually to buy their friendship?
A new form of nationalistic isolationism has formed, where Persians, Egyptians and Jordanians self impose a sieged attitude, staying on their national soil and watching conflicts like it was some form of entertainment. Iranians play their Hezbollah card whenever it suits them. If a major conflict happens it will be ignited by either Iranian Opportunism or the resurfacing of The Islamic State in Syria.
World media are waiting for the assumed massacres of former Assad Associates in Syria. Like the firing squads of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, the former ISIS fighters in Syria will murder many in the next few weeks. The massacres have begun outside of the Syrian Capital in rural area’s too dangerous for the media to visit. Some in the west hold their breath hoping that Syria can become a friend to the west, but that hope is fleeting at best. Once a murdering scoundrel, always a scoundrel and that makes up most members of the insurgency, Syrian Legislature and Military Leadership. Dirty Dogs do dirty things. It is in their nature to look out for #1 and to hell with everyone else. Sad but true. When you see the crowds in Syria (TV), listen carefully. When the cries of “God is Great” become a roar you know their society is under threat and someone let out the dogs of war.
STEVEN KASZAB Bradford, Ontario December 10, 2024.
EDITOR,
Guard - RBDF intelligence the plane crashed...why taking credit when no one did anything? PLP never did acts of violence in Parliament? You all got no memory...Big Bad Brad nearly threw a bunch of Law Books across the House...isn’t that violence? The Cartwright incident - Police totally over reacted…injured the Sergeant-at-Arms and Deputy Speaker.
M THOMPSON Nassau, December 11, 2024.
EDITOR, The Tribune.
SAWYER’S Fresh Market has been serving the Grand Bahamian community for over a decade. Its newest location in the Port Lucaya area off Midshipmen is where I normally shop because it has more space than the smaller location on Oakes Street and Logwood Road. Sawyer’s drew thousands of shoppers because of its low prices, selling generic products at reasonable prices similar to the Save A Lot franchise in the US. In recent months, though, the shelves at the Lucaya location have been mostly empty. The Oakes Street location is also experiencing its fair share of challenges in keeping its shelves fully stocked. For about three straight
weeks, I went to the Lucaya location only to discover that there is no milk. Indeed, other diary and cold cut products are usually unavailable. Mayonnaise, ketchup, salad dressings, canned goods and cereals - with few exceptions - are also unavailable on my many trips to the store. It is becoming increasingly difficult to shop at the Lucaya branch due to the scarcity of items in the store. I have been hearing that one explanation for this troubling situation is that the principals of the franchise have shifted their undivided attention to their newest location on Paradise Island. But this explanation makes no sense at all. From the outside looking in, the Lucaya store looks like
it is on its last leg. Empty shelves in a store can mean one of two things: one, the store is having technical issues with its main supplier in the US; or two, there is the uncomfortable matter of financial solvency.
I do hope I am wrong because Sawyer’s has been a tremendous blessing to Grand Bahama. Its presence has helped in keeping the grocery market competitive. With its pre-inflation prices, other stores were reluctant to engage in price gouging. I am appealing to the principals to please restock the shelves at the Lucaya and Oakes Streets branches so that patrons can continue shopping.
KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand Bahama December 10, 2024.
The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services K9 unit during a display at the BDOCS A Squad Passing Out Parade on Friday. Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff
Commission of inquiry essential
By Dr HuBert Minnis
The Bahamas is facing its worst drug-related scandal since the drug years of the 1970s and 1980s. Today, the international reputation of the country is being severely harmed by an indictment from the United States, alleging serious corruption in the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) and the wider government bureaucracy.
Bahamian police and defence force officers and government officials have been accused of helping to smuggle tons of cocaine into the US, along with being involved in weapons smuggling.
This scandal has shocked the country. It has spread around the world, making headlines everywhere via the international media.
The Davis administration has struggled to respond to the widespread scandal. The opposition has called for a commission of inquiry. however, Prime Minister Philip Davis is absolutely refusing to ask the governor general to appoint a commission.
his latest excuse is that a commission would be too expensive. That is nonsense, of course.
A commission of inquiry is a Bahamian legal tool. There is an act that governs commissions. It allows for the creation of a truly independent investigatory body.
Commissions exist in our law for moments such as this – that is, for cases where allegations of corruption or abuse are pervasive and go up the chain of command in a state entity or other body.
A commission would have hearings in the open, where the public may attend. This is important to help the Bahamian people have confidence in the independence and openness of the investigation and its findings.
A commission could include eminently qualified people from The Bahamas, the region, the broader Commonwealth, or beyond.
A commission would help find those co-conspirators who were not indicted, but who were part of this drugand weapons-smuggling network.
The commission could also offer recommendations on how to reform our security forces.
PM is not making sense
Davis has been the most wasteful prime minister in Bahamian history. he has spent many millions of dollars travelling around the world to conferences and on sightseeing trips.
The opposition has decried this wasteful extravagance. Yet, Davis persists. The prime minister has been to nearly every continent with his crew of travelling companions.
It is disgraceful that after wasting so much of the people’s money in a time of high inflation and financial struggles that Davis would give the excuse that a commission of inquiry costs too much.
By giving this answer to the media on December 11, Davis has proven that he is not interested in getting to the bottom of this explosive corruption scandal. he has also proven that he is uninterested in fully restoring the international reputation of The Bahamas in the wake of these damning allegations.
As it stands, no known Bahamian public investigation has been launched into these allegations since they were leveled. That is unacceptable. What is the Davis administration afraid of?
What has been done is insufficient
Davis met with the US embassy’s charge
d’affaires, retired the commissioner of police and brought forward for public consultation a bill to provide for independent oversight of our law enforcement agencies. These moves are a first step toward a response. But they are only just that: a first step. Bahamians want to know who else was involved in the drug and weapons smuggling. They also want those people removed from the security forces and wider government apparatus. If there is no investigation to find these people, they will continue doing what they were doing. That means more tons of cocaine will be shipped through Bahamian airports and ports. That means there will be more giving of confidential information to foreign and local drug traffickers from our US partners.
When I last wrote on this subject of a commission of inquiry it was in July. Then we were dealing with explosive allegations regarding bribery, corruption, and possible complicity in murders in the voice note scandal.
Outgoing Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander launched an investigation into that matter. The investigation is yet to be concluded, though Fernander pledged a result by the end of the year.
I argued in that op-ed in July that while the commissioner was making some effort to respond, the investigation he announced was insufficient. It fell significantly short of what is needed.
The police cannot investigate themselves when the allegations are being made about them at their senior ranks. There is the need for an even more independent, thorough, and transparent investigation.
The voice note scandal suggested that that case did not appear to be the matter of a few bad police officers or “a few bad apples”. There seemed to be systemic and broader issues in the force, including the relationship with senior police and noted criminals and gang members.
This drug scandal and the voice note scandal have diminished confidence in the police and defence forces, and the wider government. Bahamians are frightened and do not want anything covered up.
Bahamians want a national inquiry to restore trust, one that gets to the bottom of the drug scandal and the voice note scandal.
Davis is making a mistake by going against the will of the people. The people want transparency and accountability. Davis wants the status quo to remain and for all of us to move on and forget these scandals.
The people cannot just move on. The people’s trust has been betrayed and Bahamians want justice to be done.
A commission of inquiry is not too expensive. A commission inquiry does not take too long. A commission is what is required at times like this to bring to account those in high places who violated their sacred oaths to the people.
Davis is running from his responsibility as prime minister to call a commission of inquiry. Sir Lynden Pindling tried too to avoid calling one in the early 1980s. So much pressure mounted on Sir Lynden that he had no choice but to do so.
The subsequent commission revealed that the corruption was more widespread than first assumed. It also named names. Consequences followed for many in positions of authority.
We in the opposition will continue to apply pressure on this prime minister to do what is right. he should call for a commission of inquiry now to find those guilty of wrongdoing, and to help restore the international reputation of our commonwealth.
• Dr. Hubert Minnis is the Killarney Member of Parliament. He is also the former prime minister and former Free National Movement leader.
Former Prime minister Dr Hubert minnis
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024
Gifts The Bahamas needs to find under the Christmas tree
By MALCOLM STRACHAN
WE are well and truly into the festive season. Santa is checking his list, twice of course. Parliamentarians are out giving gifts and turkeys to constituents in the hope they will remember that come voting time. And every major store has the sound of bells outside from fundraisers.
It’s been a tough time for charities this year. We keep hearing that corporate giving is down, that the well is running dry.
Then we hear that tourism numbers aren’t quite what they were last year. The Family Island resorts in the past week have been talking about fewer people –although sometimes longer stays.
Over at Atlantis, there was talk of how the post-COVID rush to return to the world had tapered off.
Both feel like possible warning signs for the economy.
It is especially hard for the charities at the hard edge supporting people in poverty. We hear of the difficulty of coaxing donations to help, and of a broader range of people joining the lines in need of food.
Young men and government workers have joined the lines, it has been reported.
Warning signs of course do not mean an inevitable outcome. There may well be time to remedy such matters. It may be a bump in the economic road. But as we keep hearing noises about the build-up to an election, it is a bump the government has to remedy.
There are already challenges facing the government in terms of seeking re-election. There have been scandals. There have been promises that have not been delivered upon. But if the economy is uncertain, you might as well announce the next prime minister before a vote is cast. People are going to need to feel the benefit if they are going to back a two-term administration.
With all that said, here are my wishes for gifts under the Christmas tree.
FrEEDOm OF InFOrmATIOn ACT
Back in January, I wrote about how the government’s position on freedom of information. I asked in fact by what date it would be fully implemented, and eagerly awaited the answer.
As you can see, it has not been.
This followed comments by PLP chairman Fred mitchell that “we oppose this Freedom of Information Act idea”.
After mr mitchell’s comments, the government fired off a statement saying that the Office of the Prime minister “wishes to make absolutely clear the Davis administration’s commitment to the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act. minister mitchell, in a recent nassau Guardian article, affirmed that the government is actively moving forward with the FOIA’s implementation. This step underscores our unwavering dedication to ensuring transparency and accountability in governance, integral to our democratic principles and the public’s right to information”. Underscore it all you want, but the year has passed with no budget to put Freedom of Information into play and no indication of any commitment to its implementation.
So first gift under the tree? An actual commitment, and an actual result, and an actual Freedom of Information Act we can make use of before the election countdown begins.
POLICE COrrUPTIOn
InVESTIGATIOnS
While we are checking lists twice, it appears we have two
major police corruption investigations awaiting an outcome.
The former commissioner –although wait, we are told he is still in office for now despite his resignation having been accepted – had promised an update on the voice notes investigation before Christmas.
That investigation surrounded voice notes between a senior police officer, a lawyer and also two criminals, both of whom have since been murdered.
It went all the way back to a theft from a security car at an airport of $1.3m – and there has been little in the way of updates.
The outcome of this one ought not to be far off – and cannot be swept under the carpet of a change of commissioner at the top. Whoever holds that title come the end of the year, the public is waiting.
Then there is the investigation that has not begun yet, or at least has not yet been announced.
The US indictment alleging a conspiracy involving cocaine and gun smuggling and listing 11 Bahamians while talking of corrupt Bahamas officials and officers is beyond disturbing.
It needs a firm commitment for an in-depth investigation. A Commission of Inquiry is absolutely an appropriate avenue for such a probe – but the government does not seem remotely interested in that. The prime minister has even gone so far as to say it would be too expensive to do such a thing. I would suggest it would be too costly for the nation not to have a thorough probe of such allegations. Whatever path the government wants to take, it needs to announce it, and quickly.
DOmESTIC VIOLEnCE
ShELTEr
There have been promises and promises and promises on the creation of a domestic violence shelter.
When Obie Wilchombe, rest his soul, was minister of Social Services in July 2023, he said the first of four such shelters would be ready in weeks. They never happened. his successor, myles Laroda, told people in April this year to “stay tuned”. People stay tuned, but the station seemed to be playing nothing.
Then in October, mr Laroda announced that the government had bought a shelter – but gave no timeline for its opening.
As to the details of it, who knows? he wasn’t telling. If the property was bought in October, we ought not to be far away from unveiling the final facility, I would think.
So this should be an easy Christmas gift to deliver. not for me, of course, but for those who need it.
rELIABLE POWEr – AT A rEASOnABLE PrICE
And while we are talking about Christmas wishes – and seemingly impossible dreams, here’s a hope that the latest BPL deal will deliver what has been promised time and time again for the Bahamian people. reliable power. At a reasonable cost. Our bills have soared and dipped like a rollercoaster –though the dips never seem to be enough and the soars always seem too much.
Could this time, finally, be the time we actually get an outcome to help the Bahamian people?
Because, trust me, this is one of those areas where people feel it in their pocket.
And going towards an election, failing to deliver on this would be one of the factors that play into people’s thoughts when they vote.
So parcel it up. Wrap it with a bow. And merry Christmas to everyone.
Let the asylum seekers go
A first step for Venezuela to rebuild relations in the Americas
The government of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela has steadfast support from many friends in the Caribbean and other parts of the world, despite numerous allegations of violations of international law, aggressive acts toward its neighbour Guyana, and intolerance of political dissent.
Yet, these actions have driven millions of Venezuelans to flee their homeland, making them the second-largest group of refugees globally. Thus, the Venezuelan government has also created hostility from many of its closest neighbours in Notrth, South and Central America.
This tension came to a head on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at a Special Meeting of the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS), which I presided over as Dean of the Ambassadorial Corps.
During this meeting, 14 member states of the OAS, led by Argentina, read a statement into the record expressing profound concerns about the situation in Venezuela.
The concerns related to six members of the opposition who sought asylum in the Argentine Ambassador’s official residence following the disputed presidential election of July 28, 2024. Nicolás Maduro was declared the victor amid claims of electoral rigging by international observers and numerous Western governments.
World View
By SIR RONALD SANDERS
A police patrol car sits parked outside Argentina’s embassy where some members of Venezuela’s opposition are seeking asylum inside, in Caracas, Venezuela, July 31, 2024, three days after the contested presidential election.
Werhein detailed acts of “physical exhaustion” and “psychological terror” inflicted on the
The Argentine Foreign Minister Gerardo Werhein accused Venezuela of harassing the six opposition members—Omar González, Pedro Urruchurtu Noselli, Magalli Meda, Claudia Macero, h umberto Villalobos, and Fernando Martínez Mottola. They are allies of opposition leader María Corina Machado, who was barred from running in the July 2024 election.
asylees, including water cuts, electricity interruptions, restrictions on food deliveries, and constant surveillance of the Argentine diplomatic compound in Caracas in which they have sought and been granted asylum in accordance with international law.
The statement was not supported by 11 CARICOM countries and 7 Latin American states which have maintained cordial ties with Maduro’s government. Paradoxically, these countries have a strong tradition of democracy, the rule of law, and free and fair elections in their own countries. These nations are also bastions of political and human rights, accepting free speech and dissent while rejecting the repression of political opponents.
Their good relations with the Maduro government stem in part from gratitude for the assistance Venezuela provided after the global recession of 2007-2009, particularly through the PetroCaribe initiative which eased the burden of high oil prices.
however, such gratitude can be eroded by overt infractions of democracy and international law by the Venezuelan government.
For the 11 Caribbean nations to maintain credibility as advocates for democracy and justice, particularly when seeking economic and climate justice on the global stage, they cannot ignore breaches of these principles by any country, including Venezuela.
Therefore, if Maduro’s government wants to retain and strengthen the support of its Caribbean friends, it must demonstrate readiness to uphold democracy and honour the international conventions to which it is a signatory.
The Venezuelan government knows better than anyone else that it has already lost the trust of many of its traditional friends in South and Central America, and that the countries of North America are already intent on isolating it.
One of the conventions to which it should show respect and adherence is the “Convention on Diplomatic Asylum,” concluded in Caracas in 1954 with Venezuela
as an original signatory. Article 1 of this Convention states: “Asylum granted in legations, war vessels, and military camps or aircraft, to persons being sought for political reasons or for political offenses shall be respected by the territorial State in accordance with the provisions of this Convention.”
Yet, the Maduro government is accused by 14 neighbouring states in The Americas of violating this principle. It lies at the crux of the present tension between Venezuela and Argentina.
At the OAS meeting, Brazil’s Ambassador to the OAS, Benoni Belli explained the situation. h e told the Meeting that since August 2024, the Argentine diplomatic premises have been under Brazil’s custody at Argentina’s request and with Venezuela’s consent, in keeping with adherence to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which mandates the inviolability of diplomatic premises and the protection of mission properties, even in cases of severed relations.
h owever, on September 6, Venezuela revoked Brazil’s authorization, accusing the asylees of having conspired to commit terrorist acts— claims unsupported by any publicly presented evidence. The Ambassador emphasized that, to date, no alternate custodian has been appointed by Argentina or accepted by Venezuela, leaving Brazil to continue its custodianship.
By upholding the inviolability of Argentina’s diplomatic premises and granting safe passage for the asylees, Venezuela can demonstrate a renewed commitment to the principles of diplomacy and international cooperation. This could ease regional tensions and open doors to economic and political cooperation, ultimately benefiting the Venezuelan people.
This issue transcends domestic political considerations; it is a test of Venezuela’s willingness to respect established norms and conventions that underpin global order. The international community has made its sentiments clear that compliance with these norms is a legal obligation. however, for Venezuela, compliance could also be an important step toward mending strained relations in the region. That is why the Maduro government should carefully consider the repercussions of its actions. Neighbouring states value democracy and justice too deeply to ignore transgressions. Venezuela’s actions will determine whether it continues down a path of isolation or begins to restore its place of respect among its regional and global peers. The path forward is clear: uphold international law, honour commitments to diplomatic conventions, and respect human rights— values championed, particularly, by Caribbean countries.
Taking these steps will ensure the safe passage of the asylees under international law. It will also send a powerful signal that Venezuela is ready to reengage with the international community in good faith.
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
This impasse further deepens the international community’s concerns over Venezuela’s commitment to the Vienna Convention and the Convention on Diplomatic Asylum. For Venezuela, this situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity. While its actions may be dictated by domestic political considerations, adherence to international law offers a path to rebuilding trust among its neighbours in the Americas.
Photo: Matias Delacroix/AP
‘Tis the season
As a young child, every Christmas morning I walked as quickly as my little legs would allow, headed with all the speed I could muster toward our living room. I walked as if there were a treasure waiting just for me and I walked so quickly I might as well have been running. The last Christmas I ran, I tripped and scraped my knee on our tile floor. It was a lesson well-learned. In the front right corner of our living room stood a modest fir Christmas tree adorned with large red bows, handpainted ornaments and a white-robed angel on top. The warm lights glistened and for a child, many times just sitting there in the dead of night, it felt like I was looking directly at the stars. After midnight mass, I’d pretend to sleep for a few hours, tossing and turning in anticipation. Then, at the first break of sunlight, I went to the tree where my father would already be taking all the presents and sorting them into piles for each family member. I watched gleefully but hidden where he couldn’t see me, secretly peering to see how big my pile would become. Afterwards, when called, we’d sit behind our own individual gifts, each one of us encircling the tree and one at a time my parents, siblings and I anxiously took turns opening them while drinking hot chocolate with marshmallows. When we were finished, we ate breakfast and watched cartoons
as my mom and dad fielded calls from neighbors, friends and family members wishing us a Merry Christmas. It was always the most magical time of the year and my happiest childhood memory. It’s hard to believe that’s the same time of the year as now. Christmas is a little more than one week away and tis the season to be jolly but it hardly feels like Christmas. I’m not sure why. One can easily chalk it up to just getting older and the inevitable wax of nostalgia with age but perhaps it’s something deeper. Perhaps I, and dare I say we, have become so distracted by the day-to-day machinations of life, so caught up in the cogwheels as one day turns into the next that we’re no longer able to recognise the magic of the season. It’s easy to say that the Christmas season is only magical for children and we’re not expected to feel the same magic now that we’re grown. But somehow the difference feels larger and the void between the magic then and the lack of it now, is far greater than one explained by age alone. Outside the medical field, we often hear people refer to an ingrown toenail as a matter so insignificant
as to represent something blown out of proportion. It’s the perfect example of not understanding how small things like losing the holiday magic can relate to larger issues, and so today I wanted to share the story of a patient hereafter referred to as Ricky whom I treated for a badly infected ingrown toenail. Ricky is in his early twenties with no past medical problems. He says that his nails always grow into the flesh and he’s been able to self-debride it as far back as possible without issue for years. That is until he wore a particularly tight pair of dress shoes which is when the toe became red and swollen with intense pain to light touch. He was treating it at home with hydrogen peroxide and antibiotic ointment but to no avail. By the time he presented to my office, the toe had doubled in size and there was obvious purulent discharge with notable redness.
Ricky described the pain as someone sticking a knife into his toe over and over again. Other times it felt so numb and swollen that it could burst at any moment. His constant throbbing was exacerbated by wearing socks, closed-in shoes, light palpation to the area
By Dr Kenneth
or simply brushing his toe against bed sheets.
I anesthetized Ricky’s toe, cleansed the area with an anti-septic solution and surgically removed the ingrown toenail in office. Then I prescribed an oral antibiotic and explained how to perform his daily dressing changes. The day after the nail was excised, his pain resolved entirely and, on his follow-up, visit a week later, the area was 85 percent healed. And now that Ricky won’t have to worry about his toenails, I asked him how he and his family would be spending the holidays. The question took him by surprise. He hadn’t realized that Christmas was so close. That ended my theory that not feeling the holiday spirit may be correlated with advancing age. We’ve all become so busy he said, with so many distractions and things to do that it’s easy to lose track of time, as if it comes barreling at you. Days line up, rolling into one another unceasingly. The news cycle focuses on endless conflict, too many headlines shouting news we don’t want to hear. Ricky questioned how can it feel like Christmas when it feels like the world
is constantly in a state of chaos. There’s a story I often think about during the Christmas holidays. It was written by a gentleman under the pen name of O Henry called ‘Gift of the Magi’ and it was first published in 1905. The story tells us about a husband and wife who sell their most valuable possessions on Christmas eve in order to afford a gift for one another. Neither has money but they have love and they badly want to show it. The wife sells her hair and uses the money to buy her husband a fob chain to go with his beloved gold pocket watch, a family heirloom. Unbeknownst to her, her husband sold his watch to buy her a pair of ornamental hair combs. Neither the husband nor the wife can use their gifts but both instantly realize that they were willing to sell something they treasured for the person they love. The story reminds us particularly during this time of the year that loving others and being selfless is the greatest gift we can give. My office manager Gina reminded me that we have a patient who broke her ankle and ruptured her anterior talofibular ligament. she’ll require surgical intervention and is so upset that she can’t bring herself to be excited about the upcoming holiday. Another patient just lost her father and he’ll be buried two days before Christmas, just a
few short months after she buried her mother. For so many people, life right now is filled with challenges or overwhelming sadness so it’s hard to feel merry. For them, it is up to us, to those people who know them, to reach out and ease their pain and for those of us blessed to be free of pain and anguish, all the more reason to use this season to celebrate life and treasure the people we love. Ricky understands as well as anyone that small nuisances can very quickly become serious health concerns. But those small nuisances can also be poignant reminders for us all to slow down. He’ll use the holiday break to give thanks for his good health. I hope many more of us do the same because even if we don’t bounce down the steps or race to the Christmas tree, tis the season to be jolly and right about now, we could all use a reason to rest, reflect and just be merry.
This is The KDK Report.
• Nicknamed ‘The Prince of Podiatry’, Dr Kenneth D Kemp is the founder and medical director of Bahamas Foot and Ankle located in Caves Village, Western New Providence. He served as the deputy chairman for the Health Council for five years and he currently sits on the board of directors for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation in his role as co-vice-chairman.
D Kemp
Jeffrey Meris: A bright star for Bahamian arts
THIS year marks 20 years since lyford Cay Foundations’ Harry C Moore Memorial Scholarship in the Arts has been shining a light for emerging Bahamian artists. Some of the country’s most renowned artists trace their formal training to their university experience made possible by the award.
Internationally acclaimed, multidisciplinary artist and two-time lyford Cay Foundations scholar Jeffrey Meris said lyford Cay Foundations played a critical role in his story.
Meris was an artist long before he ever felt that the term applied to him. Growing up in the heart of Nassau, he immersed himself in the colours, designs and music of Junkanoo at an early age.
“I grew up in the Junkanoo shack not understanding that everything I engaged in was completely through an artistic lens,” said Meris.
“Years of being in the shack led me to the Bahamian arts community and eventually helped me go off to college thanks to the Harry C Moore Memorial Scholarship.”
It was the exposure to the work of Tavares Strachan, lyford Cay Foundations’ inaugural Harry C Moore scholar, that opened Meris’s eyes to a world of possibilities. “I met Tavares when I was 13 and it was the first time that I saw art being made by someone like me,” Meris reflected.
“Seeing someone from my community -- someone that I understood and had a similar life perspective was deeply compelling and poetic.”
The first in his family to attend college, Meris
GAIN AN EDGE
received his associate of arts degree at the University of The Bahamas, where he was taught by Heino Schmid, another Harry C Moore scholar. He went on to attend Rhode Island School of Design and became the first in his family to go abroad to pursue higher education.
When Meris decided to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture at Temple University in Philadelphia, and later, a Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts from Columbia University in New York, he applied to lyford Cay Foundations Scholarship Programme. Notably, Jeffrey became the first to be awarded the Harry C Moore Memorial Scholarship twice.
Over the years, Meris has exhibited in several premiere art galleries throughout the US and The Bahamas. Additionally, Jeffrey is a Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture alum (2019); a NXTHVN Studio Fellow, New Haven (2020); a Sharpe-Walentas Studio Programme artist in residence, Brooklyn (2021); and a Studio Museum in Harlem artist in residence (2022-2023). Despite all of the accolades, at his core, Meris
remains deeply connected to The Bahamas and he remains grateful to be a Harry C Moore scholar.
“As one of my earliest accomplishments, The Harry C Moore Memorial Scholarship was a launching pad,” shared Jeffrey. “Everything I have been able to achieve is interconnected like a constellation. lyford Cay Foundations and the Harry C Moore award have been pivotal points in the constellation.”
Jeffrey Meris is among a select group of Bahamian artists who proudly carry on the legacy of philanthropist Harry C Moore. Moore was an avid lover of the arts who served in various capacities on the boards of lyford Cay Foundation, Inc. and The Canadian lyford Cay Foundation including as director, chairman and honorary chairman. The Harry C Moore l ibrary and Information Centre on the University of The Bahamas’ New Providence campus is a testament to Moore’s commitment to making educational opportunities available for Bahamians.
Each year, in honour of Moore, lyford Cay Foundations awards the Harry
C Moore Memorial Scholarship in the Arts to one or two Bahamians who demonstrated exceptional promise.
Awardees over the 20 years are: Tavares Strachan (2004);Heino Schmid (2005); Amielle Major (2006); Sonovia Pierre (2007); Natha lightbourne (2008); Dion Cunningham (2009); Sonia Farmer (2010); Gregory Curry (2011); Jeffrey Meris (2012); Thea Rutherford (2013); Averia Wright (2015); Aidan Barrow (2016); Jeffrey Meris (2017); Karese Burrows (2018); Stefan Thompson (2019); letitia Pratt (2020); lemuel Johnson (2021); Clarence Albury (2021); Alexia Tolas (2023); Giovanni T Clarke (2024) and Cydne Coleby (2024).
2024 in pop culture: In a bruising year, we sought out fantasy, escapism - and cute little animals
Associated Press
I’ll get you, my pretty! And your little pygmy hippo, too!
Forgive us the shameless attempt to link the fantasy hit “Wicked” to the delightful Moo Deng. But, hear us out — there’s something the two have in common as the year draws to a close. Escapism. Whether we found it on the yellow brick road, or in videos from a Thailand zoo, or perhaps in unlikely Olympic heroes, we gravitated toward fantasy and feel-good pop culture moments this year. There were new trends, as always. “Brat summer” became a thing, as did “demure, mindful.” And for some inexplicable reason, we became obsessed with celebrity lookalike contests. There were breakups — Bennifer is, again, a thing of the past — and reunions: Oasis, please try to stay together for the tour. And some things stayed, remarkably, the same: Taylor Swift and Beyoncé kept on breaking records and making history.
So, after a year where much changed but some things held steady, here’s our annual, very selective trip down pop culture memory lane:
JAnuAry
It starts as a cheery tweet from a beloved “Sesame Street” figure: “ElMO is just checking in! How is everybody doing?” The answers hint at something deeper and more worrisome. “Not great, Elmo. Not great,” says one milder reply. Doing much better is the viral phenomenon called “BARBENHEIMER,” which makes its awards season debut at the GOlDEN GlOBES. But perhaps the most poignant moment comes from neither film: lIlY GlADSTONE, first Indigenous winner of best
actress in a drama for “Killers of the Flower Moon,” begins her remarks in the language of her tribe, Blackfeet Nation.
FebruAry
Valentine’s Day — a perfect time to settle into a sweet love saga via TikTok. Only that’s not quite what we get with “Who TF Did I Marry?,” REESA TEESA’s depressing, fascinating, 50-part account of her disastrous marriage with a man who lied about absolutely everything. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a single week that encapsulates peak SWIFT cultural dominance, try this: she begins with the Grammys in los Angeles (becoming the first artist to win album of the year four times AND announcing a new album), then heads to Tokyo for four tour dates, then jets back just in time for the Super Bowl in las Vegas — where she shares a passionate smooch with boyfriend TRAVIS KElCE on the field of victory.
MArch
“What was I made for?” BIllIE EIlISH sings at the OSCARS, channelling BARBIE. And what was KEN made for? Not entirely clear — but it’s clear RYAN GOSlING was made to play him. His singalong version of “I’m Just Ken” is one of the most entertaining Oscar musical moments in years. Still, Christopher Nolan’s “OPPENHEIMER” prevails, a rare case of the top prize going to a blockbuster studio film. Will it happen again in 2025? CYNTHIA ERIVO and ARIANA GRANDE sure hope so; as presenters, they make a sly reference to their upcoming juggernaut, “WICKED.” Speaking of marketing, people are obsessed with that bizarre “DUNE” popcorn bucket. And BEYONCÉ carves her space in country music with “Act II: Cowboy Carter,”
which will make her the first Black woman to top the Billboard country chart.
APril
Tennis, anyone? The game’s been around for centuries, but it’s having a cultural moment right now, helped mightily by “CHAllENGERS,” the sweaty romance triangle starring ZENDAYA, MIKE FAIST and JOSH O’CONNOR (40-love? More like 40-sex.) Elsewhere, a new era dawns: At midnight, SWIFT drops “THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT,” then drops another 15 songs two hours later. The fascinating and disturbing “BABY REINDEER,” the story of a struggling comedian’s extended encounter with a stalker, debuts on Netflix.
MAy
It’s MET GAlA time — or as it’s known in 2024, another early marketing moment for “WICKED.” ERIVO and GRANDE make fashion waves on the carpet and then musical ones at dinner, with a soulful performance of “When You Believe.” If the “Wicked” tour is in full force, another one stops in its tracks: JENNIFER lOPEZ cancels her summer tour amid reports of both poor ticket sales and trouble in her marriage to BEN AFFlECK. It’s been an eventful year for J.lo, who’s released an album and movie called “THIS IS ME ... NOW” — both reflections on her renewed love with Affleck.
June
Welcome to BRAT SUMMER! CHARlI
XCX releases her hit “Brat” album, with its lime green cover, and launches a thousand memes. Collins Dictionary defines “brat,” its word of the year, as “characterized by a confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude.” At the celeb-heavy SWIFT shows in london, we see PRINCE WIllIAM shaking it off, which
is either charming or cringe, you decide. Even better: KElCE dons a top hat and tux and performs for one night. At another stadium across the pond, METS infielder JOSE IGlESIAS delights the crowd with his cheery number “OMG.”
July
Bonjour, it’s OlYMPICS time! In Paris! An audacious opening ceremony along the Seine is punctuated by a fabulous CElINE DION, perched on the EIFFEl TOWER, singing her heart out — in the rain, too. Controversy swirls over a scene critics feel mocks leonardo da Vinci’s “The last Supper” (organizers say it does not). Olympic stars are born — including French swimming superstar lEON MARCHAND, rugby player IlONA MAHER, and bespectacled “pommel horse guy” gymnast STEPHEN NEDOROSCIK, who nets two bronze medals and comparisons to Clark Kent. Also capturing hearts: yep, MOO DENG, born this month. Her name means “bouncy pork.”
August
This is them ... now: BENNIFER is no more. After two decades, two engagements and two weddings, J.lo files for divorce. One union dissolves, another returns: OASIS announces a reunion tour. Will they be “DEMURE, MINDFUl”? Everyone seems to want to get in on TikToker JOOlS lEBRON’S act — even the WHITE HOUSE press team. Back at the Olympics, in the new sport of breaking, we meet Australia’s RAYGUN, arguably neither demure nor mindful with her “kangaroo” move. Cute animal alert: It’s DECOY OHTANI’s Major league debut! SHOHEI OHTANI’s perky pooch does a great “first pitch.” seP teMber
One of the year’s biggest breakout artists,
• “Gain An Edge is a collaboration of Lyford Cay Foundations, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute and the University of The Bahamas aimed at promoting a national dialogue on issues surrounding education. To share your thoughts, email gainanedge@tribunemedia.net.
CHAPPEll ROAN, withdraws from a music festival after speaking out about frightening fan interactions. And more on the price of fame: In an excruciating moment, “Bachelorette” JENN TRAN, the franchise’s first Asian American lead, is forced to sit through a painful viewing of her proposal to her chosen suitor, after tearfully explaining how he’d later dumped her over the phone. Tran is keeping busy though — she’s announced as part of the new “Dancing with the Stars” lineup. Also on the list: rugby player Maher, and Pommel Horse Guy! Also, ANNA SOROKIN, dancing with an ankle monitor. Online fandom, meanwhile, is shaken when X is temporarily suspended in Brazil and celebrity stan accounts post tearful farewells, revealing to many across the globe that their favourite accounts are run by Brazilians.
OctOber
“Dune” Chalamets!
“Wonka” Chalamets! Thousands gather in Man- hattan for a TIMOTHÉE CHAlAMET lookalike contest, and things really get interesting when Chalamet himself shows up. He doesn’t enter the contest, though, and with his mustache, he may not even have won. The trend continues with contests for JEREMY AllEN WHITE, ZAYN MAlIK, and — in a very Washington version — Kennedy scion JACK SCHlOSSBERG, who’s been gathering a following with some interesting social media posts.
Turning to basketball, who’s that dancing with USHER? Why it’s EllIE THE ElEPHANT, the now-viral NEW YORK lIBERTY mascot. nOveMber
MAYA RUDOlPH does a pretty good KAMAlA HARRIS laugh on “Saturday Night live,” but you know who does it better? HARRIS herself. The Democratic candidate makes a surprise cameo three days before the US presidential election, following in the footsteps of HIllARY ClINTON, SARAH PAlIN and others. Elsewhere in television, Bravo announces that “VANDERPUMP RUlES,” the Emmy-nominated reality show that has lived through countless scandals, is entirely recasting its 12th season — apart from namesake lISA VANDERPUMP. As for MOO DENG, she doesn’t have her own TV series yet, but our favorite pygmy hippo is generating plenty of merch. And THAT brings us back to …. DeceMber
“WICKED”! Director
JON M. CHU’S emeraldhued fantasy remains very very popular, to quote one of its buzzy show tunes, dancing through life and defying gravity at the multiplex. Moviegoers also come for “GlADIATOR II” and, in a veritable tidal wave, Disney’s “MOANA 2,” which beckons us back to the seas of Oceania. Once again, 2024 seems to be telling us: Give people some whimsy, a place to escape, maybe some catchy tunes — and no one knows how far they’ll go.
Jeffrey Meris, Artist and Harry C Moore Scholar. Photo: Will Pippin/Cultured Mag
AMericAn artist Snoop Dogg sits in the audience prior to the breaking competition at La Concorde Urban Park at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, in Paris, France. Photo: frank franklin/AP
UB North holds soft opening in GB after ‘extraordinary’ donation from Bastian
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
THE University of The Bahamas had a soft opening of its new downtown Freeport campus in Grand Bahama on Friday, the first phase of a five-phase rebuilding project that was funded by a $4.5 million donation from Sebastian Bastian.
His contribution will cover phases one and two.
The former Kipling Building Complex was acquired two years ago as the new UB North campus. Phase one features three science labs, three technology labs, a recreational hall, ten classrooms, a café, and a campus clinic. Phase two is due to begin in early 2025, with completion expected mid-year.
UB President Janyne Hodder said Mr Bastian’s monetary gift was “extraordinary.”
“It is the most extraordinary story in the history of the university,” she said. “This is the largest individual single gift we
ever received from someone who came to us.” Board of Trustees Chairman Mrs Allyson Maynard-Gibson called the launch “the beginning of a new chapter for UB North” and said: “Today, we celebrate accomplishing phase one of the mission and vision that were announced two years ago when we purchased the Kipling Building.”
She expects UB North to be at the heart of transforming Freeport into a “university town.”
She thanked Mr Bastian for surpassing all prior contributions.
“This donation that he is giving UB is the largest ever by any individual, Bahamian or non-Bahamian. It even exceeds donations that have been given by foundations,” she said.
Mr Bastian apologised for past hardships faced by UB North students and faculty, saying: “It would be remiss of me if I don’t apologize.”
“It should be unacceptable for us to allow such a vital institution to be in despair for five years.”
“Service is the rent we pay for our time here on earth. I am just paying my rent.
“We look forward to UB being the college town. This is just the beginning.”
Dr Ian Strachan, UB Executive Vice President, outlined the university’s vision. Phase two will provide a library, lecture theatres, an entrepreneurship centre, a business incubator, and additional offices.
Phase three will establish student housing, phase four will convert the old campus site into a marine environmental science field research station, and phase five aims to enrol between 1,200 and 1,500 students within five years.
“This is a big goal,” Dr Strachan said.
He stressed the need for expanded programmes, including nursing, computer information systems, marine and environmental science, entrepreneurship and sustainable innovations, and training for Bahamian meteorologists and geologists.
Hodder eyes summer 2025 for UB to obtain international accreditation
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
JANYNE Hodder, president of the University of The Bahamas, said the institution could achieve National Accreditation and Equivalency Council of The Bahamas (NAECOB) accreditation by the summer of 2025, but obtaining international accreditation will take longer.
During the soft opening of UB’s North campus in Grand Bahama on Friday, Ms Hodder told reporters that they are proud of the progress and work they have done so far.
“We have an application to NAECOB and I think that process will go reasonably quickly between now and the end of June,” she said.
UB has also sent an application to the America’s Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Ms Hodder said the multi-step process with SACS will be a longer, with UB currently in the candidacy phase.
“There are people at the accreditation agency reading our submission,” she said. “They will probably come back and ask for questions or clarification or more data, and we will provide that to them.”
Once the initial review is complete, SACS will decide if UB is ready for an in-person evaluation.
“We expect a visiting team to come to see whether everything we said on the paper is true in reality. Once that visitation
occurs, they will make a recommendation to the board to accept us as a candidate,” she said.
The next phase will involve preparing additional documentation for compliance.
“We will be working on that in a few months, and when that is in, we will have a second visit. Then, we will be ready to complete the process for full accreditation,” Ms Hodder said.
The UB president stressed that while accreditation is the goal, it requires an ongoing responsibility.
“Don’t think of this as a marathon we are running with an end date. Once you’ve done that, you have to prepare for your reaffirmation,” she said.
“So, we are not just engaged in let’s get to the
finish line. We are engaged in a process that is going to be a cycle.”
Enrolment at The University of The Bahamas (UB) has reached its largest in five years, with just over 4,500 students.
“I think we still have the capacity to grow, but our programmes need to be targeted toward meeting our national development needs and addressing national concerns,” UB’s president said.
She noted that UB’s Small Island Sustainability programme is underway at the Oakes Field and Freeport campuses, and added that plans are also underway to revitalise UB’s research field station — the former campus. She also noted that UB has completed all its audits up to 2023.
A presentAtion was made to Sebastian Bastian at the soft opening of the new UB North campus in downtown Freeport. Also present were UB president Janyne Hodder (second from left); Allyson Maynard-Gibson, chairman of the Board of Trustees at UB (right); and Minister of Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey.
UB president JAnyne Hodder
Nearly half of 115 graduating BDOC recruits are women
AFTeR six months of training, the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDoCS) welcomed 115 correctional officers, nearly half of them women.
BDoCS Commissioner Doan Cleare encouraged the officers and reminded them that trust and accountability are key objectives in the current era.
“This is not an easy institution that we’re getting,” he said. “It is difficult. It is hard. I said to you that there’s a lot of temptations, but I’m looking forward to you being the turning point in this whole new mindset of corrections, in that you will be confirmed in a year with none of you being interdicted.”
“Avoid temptation, avoid greed, avoid corruption. These are a few words, but it will take you a long way.”
National Security Minister Wayne Monroe discussed the Davis administration’s significant investment into BDoCS, including a new virtual court, getting approval for a new high-medium security facility, enhanced security apparatus, and expanded resources for extensive
training.
“All of you correctional officers have the potential to make a real difference in the lives of those under your care because you will spend so many weeks, months, and in some cases years with some of those incarcerated,” he said.
“There is, therefore, no doubt that you will have the opportunity to have a great impact on their lives and behaviour. I encourage you then to develop strong ethical relationships with the residents here and model the right behaviour for them to emulate.”
The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services 2023 annual report revealed the department’s Internal Affairs Unit sent 244 charges against 106 officers to the disciplinary tribunal. The top charge was disobeying lawful orders. Absence without leave and insubordination were among the other charges.
Police took correction officers into custody for trafficking drugs and cell phones and, in at least one instance, having sex with a woman with a mental disorder.
‘Not guilty’ plea to accusatioN of rape
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN on Friday denied raping a 23-year-old woman in New Providence earlier this year after Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson arraigned him for rape.
Rudolph Ferguson allegedly raped a young woman without her consent on January 17.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Brian Dorsett, who represented the accused, requested that the defendant’s ankle monitor be removed while he is out on bail.
Justice Thompson informed the defence of their right to fill out a bail variation form to transfer their request to the relevant judge. Ferguson will appear before Justice Franklyn Williams on January 14, 2025, for a trial date fixture.
Ma N deNies charge of MolestiNg uNderage Niece
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A 25-yeAR-olD man on Friday denied molesting his underaged niece five times over the last two years.
Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson arraigned the man, whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the complainant, with five counts of incest.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The defendant was informed that his trial is slated to begin on May 19, 2025. He was also informed that his pretrial date is set for May 7, 2025, during which time his bail will continue.
The defendant allegedly had unlawful sexual intercourse with his niece on five separate occasions between January 1, 2022 and March 22, 2024. The complainant was between the ages of six and eight years old during the alleged sexual assaults.
Trainee correctional officers at attention during The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services (BDOCS) A Squad Passing Out Parade on Friday.
Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune
SPORTS
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024
‘Flashy’ Hield and ‘Raw’ Williams win
By BRENT STUBBS
Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
Carl “Flashy” Hield and Rashield “Raw” Williams made their professional debuts at home with knockouts in different fashion on the Champion Spirit Fight Night in The Bahamas show on Saturday night.
In the ballroom of the Baha Mar resort in what was dubbed the return of “Drama in the Bahamas,” promoter Abdoulaye Fadiga honoured the legacy of Muhammad Ali while showcasing The Bahamas as a world-class destination for sports and entertainment.
It was the first world championship fight in The Bahamas in over 43 years since the legendary bout between Muhammad Ali and Trevor Berbick in 1981.
There was no shortage of excitement in the ring as undefeated French powerhouse Kevin Lele Sadjo, Chinese star Xu “The Monster” Can and Miami heavyweight Anthony “White Chocolate” Martinez rocked the house with their tantalising performances as well.
Boxers
The star-studded evening attracted actor Theo Rossi, supermodel Chanel Iman and actress Heidy De La Rosa, along with Baha Mar president Graeme Davis. The Bahamas Boxing Commission, headed by
Fred Sturrup, was on hand to help supervise the show. Hield, longing for the opportunity to finally come home and compete
after his shifting from the amateur to the pro ranks, took his time to electrify the hometown crowd with a spectacular knockout
of Panamanian Edwin Gamboa. After showboating for most of the latter
‘HUNGARY’ SWIMMERS REPRESENT BAHAMAS WELL
By BRENT STUBBS
Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
THE Bahamas national swim team left the FINA World Short Course Championships in Budapest, Hungary, with four national records, a semifinal appearance and some valuable experiences for the future. Olympians Lamar Taylor and Rhanishka Gibbs, along with fellow collegiate standouts Emmanuel Gadson and Victoria Russell carried the Bahamian flag at the week-long meet that concluded yesterday.
BAAA CHRISTMAS PARTY THE Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations has announced that their Christmas Party in the backyard will take place on Friday, December 20. The event will take place at Sealy’s Backyard in Sea Breeze Lane from 6pm. Prizes and surprises will be given out all night long.
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.
CHAVEZ YOUNG ‘THE HOME RUN KING’
By TENAJH SWEETING
BAHAMIAN base-
ball professional Chavez Young became the third consecutive Bahamian to win the “Home Run King” crown of the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise at Montagu Beach on Saturday.
The “Greatest Show on the Sand” certainly lived up to its hype as the Freeport native had to dig deep to beat out former champions Joshua Palacios and BJ Murray to secure the title in the final round.
Young was thrilled to keep the home run derby king trophy here at home.
“It feels good to be inked in history, especially to be bringing it back to Freeport. Shout out to Breyias and shoutout to BJ. It is a blessing to be here and I am grateful for the opportunity to do this in front of my home country. It is always a blessing to do it in front of your country. That is the best experience ever,” he said. He shared what his mindset was in the final round of batting. “It was just to have fun and always have fun and to treat it like batting
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 426-7265 or email stubbobs@gmail.com.
ROAD RACE BBSF WALK/RUN THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation is inviting the general public to participate in their Family Fun Run/Walk, scheduled for Saturday, January 11, starting at 6am from the Charles W Saunders High School, Jean Street. The walk will leave Jean Street and head north to Bernard Road, west on Bernard Road to Soldier
SEE PAGE 17
FOR the fifth consecutive year, Bahamian female tennis player Sydney Clarke returned to the Children’s Emergency Hostel with parcels of food and cleaning items. She started the project as her community service when she was enrolled at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. But after graduating and now working part time as a tennis instructor at Baha Mar, Clarke said she felt obligated to continue
BAHAMIAN boxers Carl “Flashy” Hield, left, and Rashield “Raw” Williams in the Champion Spirit Fight Night in The Bahamas show on Saturday night. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
BAHAMAS swim team of head coach Camron Bruney, physiotherapist Cordero Bonamy, swimmers Lamar Taylor, Emmanuel Gadson, Rhanishka Gibbs and Victoria Russell and assistant coach Sara Collins.
‘CJ’ McKenzie elected president of Bahamas Baseball Association
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
CLARENCE ‘CJ’
McKenzie, with a wealth of experience in so many different areas of the sport, has been elected as the new president of the Bahamas Baseball Association.
McKenzie, the immediate past third vice president, beat out Shane Albury 9-3 for the top post during the election of officers on Saturday at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.
Voting delegates came from the Community Baseball League, Ed Armbrister Baseball League, Freedom Farm Baseball League, Junior Baseball League of Nassau, Grand Bahama Little League, Grand Bahama Amateur Baseball League, Legacy Baseball League, Abaco Youth Baseball & Softball League. Big Nige Baseball League, Andros Baseball
League, Long Island Baseball League and the Eleuthera Baseball League. In a tightly contested battle, Theodore ‘Teddy’ Sweeting was returned as secretary general, winning 7-5 over Tony Scriven and Sonia Knowles defeated Kervin Culmer 7-5 for assistant treasurer.
The other positions all went in unopposed with the following elected: Kenny Mondesir as first vice president; Joseph Moss and Alonzo Pratt, both from Grand Bahama as the second and third vice presidents; Darius Ferguson as treasurer and Tracey Albury from Abaco as the assistant secretary general.
McKenzie, the longest serving commissioner for 18 years, founder of the Ultimate Champion Sports Academy and tournament director for the BBA Nationals, said he’s eager to step up and take over the realms from outgoing
president Sam Rogers, who didn’t seek another four year term in office.
“I am very thankful and blessed to have been afforded the top post in baseball in the country,” McKenzie said.
“I’ve been eyeing this position for quite some time. I’m thankful for the
support, the overwhelming support, given to me and my executive team. The team is ready to get the job done. There is no time to waste. The work starts now.”
Based on their agenda, McKenzie said it’s their goal to take baseball to the next level as they head
into the primary and high schools and they will introduce a national high school baseball tournament, similar to the Hugh Campbell Basketball Tournament for high school senior boys.
“We will also be introducing the BBA All-Star weekend where the best kids in the various age
groups will come and play against each other,” he said. “We will also CBL up and running after 18 years of absence and we are going into those Family Islands where baseball has been struggling in Bimini, Exuma, San Salvador and Spanish Wells, so we have a hefty plan of action during our tenure in office.”
Once the executives have met, McKenzie said they will have a meeting with all of the Family Island representatives as they introduce themselves and their plans and that will be followed up with meeting all of the semi and professional baseball players in the country.”
McKenzie said he has a dynamic team which is ready to work. “We have a few executives from the previous administration who will be returning, so they are familiar with each other and that is why I know we can get the job done.”
CHAVEZ YOUNG WINS ‘DON’T BLINK’ HOME RUN DERBY CROWN
FROM PAGE 15
practice. I was fortunate to go to winter ball and still have my swing going. I felt good. Shoutout to Lucius and Todd for having this beautiful event for me to participate in and also have my teammates from the states like Joshua Palacios perform in it,” he said. The 27-year-old outfielder went out with a bang in the final round of competition, launching 12 homers into the waters on Montagu Beach.
Despite coming up short in the individual competition, Team World got the advantage on Team Bahamas 52-43 in team competition.
Prior to this year’s competition, Bahamian minor leaguers BJ Murray and Breyias Dean emerged victorious at the Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise event in 2022 and 2023 respectively.
Dean was the youngest Bahamian to leave with the crown at just 18-years-old while Murray was the first
Bahamian to ever hoist the conch shell trophy.
Event organisers Todd Isaacs Jr and Lucius Fox were pleased to see yet another Bahamian claim the Home Run Derby King title. “It feels amazing. The crown is staying here in The Bahamas and that is what we spoke about before the event. Our very own Chavez ‘Hollywood’ Young, who I grew up playing with, kept the crown in The Bahamas and we are super excited and super proud of him,” Fox said.
The Don’t Blink Home Run Derby in Paradise festivities kicked off with a kids camp, followed by a celebrity softball game before climaxing with the main event over the weekend.
Fox reflected on how amazing it feels to witness the continued growth of the baseball extravaganza in its seventh year of existence.
“I remember the very first year when that first ball got put in the water, the excitement was there. Since that year, the excitement has never left and has only
grown. This is year seven now and we are looking forward to year eight. Thank you to the Bahamian people for coming out and showing their support at the kids camp, the celebrity softball game and the home run derby. We cannot do it without you all but we do it for you all,” he said.
Isaacs Jr echoed these exact sentiments and promised to deliver an even more innovative and exciting experience next year. “We just have such a great team.
Seven years is a blessing and
we just want to continue to give God all the glory…We just want to make baseball something that is a career that kids can choose and that they can see positively and see us in them. We are gonna do this for the rest of my life and it is gonna outlive Lucius and I and we want to take this all around the world. Cheers to the first seven, we cannot wait for the next seven and we are just gonna find innovative ways to bring a new experience every year,” he said.
Boxers Carl and Rashield make their pro debuts at home with knockouts
FROM PAGE 15
rounds, Hield unleashed a right shot to the face of Gamboa one minute and 21 seconds into the eighth, sending the Panamanian flat on his back to end the circus. In defending his World Boxing Association’s FedeCaribe super welterweight title, Hield said he wanted to take his time and savour the moment of competing at home after his training camp in Colombia and Fort Lauderdale.
“It took me long because sometimes you have to get the rounds in,” said Hield, who had to work through a head butt that left a cut over his left eye from the second round.
“You never look for the knockout. You wait for it to come by itself.”
In clinching his ninth knockout in as many pro fights, Hield said he knew from the fourth round that Gamboa was tired and it showed as he tried to match his flamboyant moves to preserve some energy.
“I had a tough year going into training camp with the passing of my mom (Norma Hield) and then the situation at home (with me losing my subvention),” Hield said. “So I’m very thankful to Champion Spirit for allowing me to come home to show that I really belong in this sport.”
Now ranked at number seven in the WBA, the 38-year-old Hield said he’s hoping that they can
negotiate a world title fight for him at home next year.
In a non-title fight, Williams was all business as he sent Jose Belloso twice on the canvas in the second round, the last time resulting in a technical knockout with 1:21 left on the clock.
“In the first round, I just wanted to come out and feel him out. I usually come out hot, but my team told me to take my time and they will let me know when I want to go,” Williams said. “So I just followed my instructions and that was it.”
Williams, 35, thanked Champion Spirit for affording him the opportunity to fight at home and he is hoping that it would be the first of many after he improved his record to 12-3.
Appearing in the first title fight of the night, Xu Can went the distance as he out-slugged Jonathan Arenas from Panama for the International Boxing Organisation’s super featherweight World Boxing Association’s Continental title.
The second title fight saw Julio Cesar La Cruz stop Jeison Troncoso 1:49 into the seventh for his TKO win for the WBA gold title in the bantamweight division.
In thanking the Bahamas for giving me the opportunity to fight here, La Cruz said he knew it was only going to be a matter of time before the fight was over.
“In boxing, you have a strategy, so I wanted to
work on my jab and then go for the strategy which was to put him out when the time came,” he said.
“You don’t go for the knockout. You wait for it to come. But I’m very happy that I was able to get the knockout and win the title here.”
And in the final bout of the night, the towering American Anthony Martinez added the IBO American heavyweight
title to his collection after he knocked out Brayan Santander of Colombia 1:21 into the second round forcing him to get medical attention.
“I feel good. It’s good to be here in the Bahamas. It’s been a long time coming. I would like to be a part of the Champion Spirit boxing team,” said Martiniez, who also holds the WBA NBA heavyweight and WBO Latino cruiserweight titles.
Commenting on his fight, the 6-foot, 5-inch Martinez said his opponent was just too small and instead of waiting for him to attack, he just decided to go in and take him out.
Kevin ‘the Punisher’ Lele Sadjo claimed a thrilling title victory against Diego Chaves from Argentina. He noted that he enjoyed himself so much that he’s looking forward to making an encore here.
“I was sure to be the winner because he had a really good preparation with his coach,” he said. “It’s my first time here and I’m happy to have won in the Bahamas.”
Also on the card, Jason Marquez went the distance as he pulled off the victory over Luis Perez Sanchez in the opening bout of the show.
Fadiga, who got the show broadcasted live on DAZN, said Champion Spirit Fight Night in The Bahamas was a fusion of luxury, adrenaline, and historic achievement - a night that saw boxing take centre stage in The Bahamas once again. “It was a great success tonight with a lot of people coming and we are so appreciative because we can now call this the new place for international professional boxing,” he summed up.
Fadiga’s Champion Spirit is a global leader in highperformance wellness, sports, and fitness. In the lead-up to the event, fighters trained at the Champion Spirit Country Club, utilising its state-ofthe-art programmes and elite coaching.
Champion Spirit Country Club, the brand’s innovative 360° wellness, sports, and performance resort, is set to open in 2025 featuring world-class training facilities, cutting-edge wellness offerings, and exclusive experiences for athletes, families and wellness enthusiasts alike.
NEW executive board members of the BBA, from left, are Kenny Mondesir, Tracey Albury, Clarence McKenzie, Joseph Moss, Sonia Knowles and Teddy Sweeting.
BAHAMIAN boxer Carl “Flashy” Hield in action in the Champion Spirit Fight Night in The Bahamas show on Saturday night.
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
LORI ROACH FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT OF BAHAMAS TRIATHLON ASSOCIATION
By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net
FORMER national tennis player Lori Roach has moved up from being the secretary general to now sitting in the chair as the first female president of the Bahamas Triathlon Association.
She replaced Dorian Roach, who opted not to seek another term in office during the election of officers that took place by a Zoom meeting on Thursday night.
For the next five years, Lori Roach will head the BTA with Grant Menzies, a past director, as her secretary general; Tricia Johnson, new addition, as treasurer and Grand Bahamian Luna Maxi, the other past director, and Jacqueline Derbyshire, the outgoing treasurer, as the two directors.
“We have some members returning from the
previous board in Grant, Luna from Grand Bahama and Jacqueline and our new member is Tricia, our treasurer, so we feel we have a very capable board of getting the job done,” Roach said.
“These are people who know how we operate, so it should be an easy transition for us in office,” said Roach. “Of course, we will miss Dorian, but this team is eager to go to work.”
As she embraces her new role, Roach said she’s excited because she just returned from Spain in October from the World Triathlon Association where they also voted in a new president as well.
“In Spain, I got to talk to a lot of people and we all talked about our problems as small countries and what the bigger countries are doing,” she said.
“It seems as if the countries in the Caribbean will be sticking together to get some help with
programmes in the United States and Canada where some of our athletes will be able to go there and train.”
And with her new role as the president, Roach said she’s eager to pursue the possibility of initiating such a programme as early as next year.
Also under her term, which runs until 2029, Roach said the association is hoping to enter male and female competitors into a qualifying race in Havana, Cuba, in February for the Junior Pan Am Games later in the year.
On the local scene, Roach said the association will host the Potcake Triathlon on March 30 and National Triathlon Championships in May.
But she noted that right now there’s no island designated to host the CARIFTA Triathlon.
When asked about the Bahamas, she said the government asked for a two-year notice, so she will
‘HUNGARY’ SWIMMERS REPRESENT BAHAMAS WELL IN BUDAPEST
Taylor led the way for the four-member team with three national records, two coming in the preliminary and semifinal of the men’s 100 metre freestyle in times of 46.89 and 46.34 seconds respectively for a final placing of 13th overall.
The Henderson State graduate, who is now competing for the University of Tennessee, also posted national records in the 100 back in 23.51 for 21st place and 23.24 in the 50m butterfly for 39th place.
And he was also 29th in the 50m free in 21.57, but no record breaking performance in his final event.
“I am very happy with my nationals record that I have set this week,” Taylor said.
“It is always a good feeling to PB (personal best) and knowing what I am doing in practice is working. “I enjoyed my 100 free the most. It is a race that has come a long way.”
Taylor, who was coming off his debut at the Olympics in Paris, France in July,
will be returning to college where he will be competing in January in a few dual meets where he will team up with his team-mates.
As for Team Bahamas, Taylor said he was very proud of the way they performed and he can’t wait to get another opportunity to swim with them again.
Gadson, a freshman at Cornell University, also produced a national record in the men’s 200m backstroke in a time of 2:10.49 for 29th overall. He also was 42nd in the 100m breaststroke in 1:00.42.
“I think my races went well, all best times so I’m pretty happy with how I competed,” he said. “I learned a lot of new things on this trip and I’m looking forward to competing even better at the next one.”
In her second appearance on the senior international scene was Russell. The United Kingdom-based student, who made her debut in February with Taylor, Gibbs and Marvin Johnson as team-mates at the World Championships in Doha,
Qatar, got 45th in her women’s 50m butterfly in 28.72 and 50th in the 50m breaststroke in 33.26.
“Despite coming down with a cold leading up to the competition, I’m still really content with how I performed,” she stated.
“Competing on the world stage is always a valuable experience, and it provides important lessons for future growth.
“I’m focused on making the necessary improvements, and I look forward to hopefully representing The Bahamas again in the future.”
It wasn’t the same for Gibbs, who also made the Olympic team in Paris. She was 58th twice in the women’s 50m freestyle in 26.54 and the 100m breaststroke in 1:14.99.
The Texas Christian University sophomore expressed her disappointment.
“I thought the meet was far from my best, but not every meet is going to be a great meet,” she said.
“So I wasn’t pleased.”
be presenting her case for the Bahamas to host the CARIFTA Triathlon in 2027.
Additionally Roach said the BTA will also be looking at the possibility of hosting a developmental camp like what was done in Trinidad, Jamaica and Barbados.
“It’s usually a week-long camp for one boy, one girl and one coach invited from each Caribbean country and a World Triathlon coach comes down and gives them their training for the week,” she said.
“They also train the coach as well as the athletes and you can also tack onto that a technical and official course. We definitely need more technical officials in this country, so we can get them trained.”
At the end of the course, Roach said the athletes get to compete and the officials officiate so they can demonstrate what they learned. Dorian Roach, who served
for the past nine years, said he felt it was time for someone else to take control of the association as he concentrates on his role as the treasurer of the Bahamas Olympic Committee.
“I decided that if I was re-elected to the BOC, I would not return for another term with triathlon,” he said.
“I think the new president will do a good job.
“She’s been the workhorse for the association for the last nine years. She does all the hard work and so I think she will do a great job.
“We have a great term working with her as well. So I think the association is in good hands.”
Lori Roach, then Feingold, was one of the top female tennis players who went on to represent the Bahamas on the Fed Cup, now known as the Billie Jean King Cup, for three years in 1991, 1993 and 1994.
GADSON SETS NATIONAL RECORD IN MEN’S 200M BACKSTROKE
gets ready for his race. He set a national record in the men’s 200m backstroke.
The team was managed by Gena Culmer-Taylor, the head coach was Camron Bruney, assisted by Sara Collins from the University of Tennessee and Cordero Bonamy was the physiotherapist.
Bahamas Aquatics’ president Algernon Cargill also attended the championships as a member of the World Aquatics Bureau.
He also got a chance to present medals to the winners of both the men’s and women’s 50m backstroke.
MICHAEL Major and Simone Pratt are the top male and female seeds for the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association’s 2024 Giorgio Baldacci Open that starts today at the National Tennis Center. While Major is the top seed in the field of eight players on the men’s side, Donte Armbrister is occupying the No.2 spot.
On the field of 16 players on the ladies’ side, Pratt is No.1 followed by Sydney Clarke.
Here’s a look at today’s fixture: 9am - Caila Bowe vs Sydney Clarke; Denali Nottage vs Cailan Bowe; Sapphire Ferguson vs Breann Ferguson and Leila O’Brien vs Aryauna Davis. Not before 10amMichael Major vs Miguel Smith;
social media and with family and friends. Everything I collect is a big help. Even if it’s two bags of chips, it helps because it’s something rather than nothing at all.”
Association where she will be attempting to regain the Giorgio Baldacci Tennis Open title that she lost for the past two years.
this and even do other things throughout the year when I have the time.” Although the response to her food drive in the community is getting bigger, Clarke said she hopes to expand where it gives her the opportunity to share a lot more with the Hostel.
“It’s not as great as I would like, but I’m still grateful for what I’ve done just by sharing a post on
The tournament starts today and runs for the week at the National Tennis Center. With her community service over and done it now, she said she can concentrate on playing her best tennis.
Bethany Moncur, the personal assistant at the Hostel, said they are grateful for Clarke’s assistance.
“It’s just wonderful to watch her grow with this bringing an annual thing. We’re very proud of her and we thank her for coming every year. We love her partnership.” Moncur said they are still appealing to the public to make their contribution of grocery items, clothing or cleaning products by emailing info@bch242.org or call 341-1951, 361-4124, 8076155 or 802-7155. FROM PAGE 15
Clarke publicly thanked Bahamas Waste for coming forth and assisting her every year with the drive. While she’s back home, Clarke said she’s making her transition from college into the professional ranks as a female tennis player. She’s out with her team to make a run for it. This week, she will be entered in the Bahamas Lawn Tennis
“She has made a great impact on the Bahamas Children’s Emergency
Hostel. She’s fed many kids many times and she’s helped us clean the building with the cleaning supplies,” Moncur said.
LORI ROACH GRANT MENZIES J DERBYSHIRE LUNA MAXI TRICIA JOHNSON
EMMANUEL Gadson
BAHAMAS Aquatics president Algernon Cargill presents medals.
BAAA ODD DISTANCE PRODUCES EARLY CARIFTA QUALIFIERS
By TENAJH SWEETING
THE 2024-25 track and field season officially got underway with the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) Odd Distance Track and Field Meet staged on Saturday at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
A number of field athletes attained the CARIFTA qualifying standards at the one-day meet to kickstart what is expected to be a successful season.
Five throwers from the Blue Chip Athletics Club cracked open their season by posting CARIFTA qualifying marks.
Taysha Stubbs, a 2024 CARIFTA gold medallist, had no problems clearing the CARIFTA qualifying mark of 39.75m in the under-20 girls’ javelin throw (600g) event. She was the lone competitor in the event and posted a throwing distance of 47.95m.
The 16-year-old is competing in the under-20 division for the second year and was proud to get the CARIFTA qualification out the way early.
“It feels great to be able to qualify this early in the season. I have been putting in the work this past offseason, especially leading up to the meet so going out there and being able to compete is all thanks to God.
“It was definitely an exciting feeling. I know I still have a lot of improvement and tuning up to do but for the first meet of the season I am proud of what I have done so far and I know that this is just the beginning so I am super excited,” she said.
With the pressure of qualifying now behind her, the Queen’s College senior student is looking forward to improving the rest of the way.
“I want to prioritise becoming more sound and consistent with better technique, getting stronger, staying disciplined and overall just becoming a little bit more confident in my sport and what I know I am able to do,” Stubbs said.
Another standout CARIFTA Games performer Annae Mackey had a strong start to the season in the under-20 girls’ shot put 4k and discus throw 1k events. She surpassed the qualifying standard of 40.36m in the discus throw event with her heave of 42.04m.
Placing second in the event was Blue Chip Athletics’ Farrah Saunders with a toss of 16.78m. The third spot also went to Blue Chip with Nazariya Adderley posting a throw of 13.52m. Mackey was pleased to qualify at the first meet of the season.
“Qualifying early was expected. It’s better to get things done early so I can prepare for better and bigger goals,” Mackey said. She was just shy of achieving the CARIFTA qualifying mark of 12.49m in the shot put event. She ended her attempts with a throwing distance of 12.42m.
Her goal is now to fix some of her errors as the season progresses.
“Through perseverance I intend to perfect my errors and do my best as I conclude my high school era and at the end of the season I would be able to say I did my all on the field,” she said.
The top three finishers in the boys’ under-17 javelin throw (700g) event all made the CARIFTA Games standards.
Ahkeel Williams hit the qualifying mark in the javelin throw event a few times last season but was too young to make the CARIFTA cut, this time around he is right in the mix.
He won the under-17 boys’ javelin throw event with a qualifying mark of 51.30m which is well above the CARIFTA standard of 44.95 m.
Wyatt Cartwright clinched the second position with a strong opening throw of 49.65m. Kendal Turner, of Blue Chip Athletics, also surpassed the qualifying mark, posting 46.45m in the event.
Blue Chip head coach Corrington Maycock spoke about the early success of his athletes to open the season.
“Today was basically to see what the offseason
did for their strength and technique and also to see where the new kids are at this point. It was not really a focus on qualifying but we will take the qualifiers anyway,” Maycock said.
He outlined the focus of the throwers club as the season picks up.
“Our focus mainly is to compete at a higher level each meet and also improve our techniques. The coaches here are all about progress. We preach getting better each rep and not one day you should not see improvement,” he said.
Jazae Johnson, representing Leap of Faith, cleared the under-17 girls’ long jump qualifying mark in the under-15 event.
She eclipsed the qualifying mark of 5.45m with a leap of 5.56m for first place.
Taree Forbes, of RedLine Athletics, was second overall, jumping to a height of 4.94m. Symiah Strachan, who is also a part of RedLine, came third at 4.82m.
CARIFTA bronze medallist Davon Davis cleared the qualifying standard of 12.92m in the under-17 boys’ triple jump event. He ended the event with a wind-aided leap of 14.04m.
Lyndavion Storr, of Bahamas Speed Dynamics, came second at 12.66m and Red-Line’s Landon Moxey was third at 12.44m.
Over on the track, Eagan Neely, of Bahamas Speed Dynamics, collected two victories in the under-17 boys’ 300m dash and 150m dash respectively. He bested his teammates for a first place finish in 34.19 seconds in the 300m dash. Johanthan Higgs trailed for second in 35.06 seconds and Jahcario Wilson got the third podium spot at 35.46 seconds.
Neely was once again on top in the 150m dash. He clocked 15.54 seconds to once again outrun his competitors Higgs and Wilson.
Higgs finished the event in 15.84 seconds and Wilson in 15.99 seconds.
Red-LIne Athletics’ Darvinique Dean also doubled up on the victories in the under-17 girls’ division.
She crossed the finish line at 40.30 seconds in the under-17 girls’ 300m dash. Star Elite’s Kei-Mahri Hanna had to settle for the second position at 40.87 seconds. Alexis Roberts, of Red-Line Athletics, placed third in 41.20 seconds.
Dean was also successful in the under-17 girls’ 150m dash. She cruised to a first place finish in 17.91 seconds. Speed Capacity’s Synia Lockhart was the second best finisher at 18.06 seconds.
Red-Line Athletics’ Khylee Wallace secured the third place finish in 18.35 seconds.
Zion Davis, representing Star Elite, had a successful showing on Saturday.
He clinched the victory in the under-20 boys’ 300m event in 34.18 seconds. He was just a few steps ahead of Bahamas Speed Dynamics’ Zion Miller who wrapped up the race in 34.64 seconds for second place.
Speed Capacity’s Alexidieu Sufoir was right in the fold but fell to third in 34.99 seconds.
Davis also showed out in the under-20 boys’ 150 yard dash. He stopped the clock at 15.80 seconds en route to a first place finish. Jayden Mcphee, of Speed Capacity, was second and K’Juan Johnson, of Bahamas Speed Dynamics, was third overall Next up on the BAAA calendar will be the T-Bird Flyers Classic slated for January 10-11 at the original Thomas A Robinson Stadium.
ALLEN THROWS FOR 2 TDS, RUNS FOR 2 MORE AS BILLS WIN TO SNAP LIONS’ STREAK
DETROIT (AP) — Josh
Allen ran for two scores in the first quarter and threw two touchdown passes in the second half, leading the Buffalo Bills to a 48-42 victory Sunday that snapped the Detroit Lions ‘ franchise-record 11-game winning streak.
The AFC East-champion Bills (11-3) have won eight of nine, taking advantage of Allen’s ability to make plays with his right arm and legs.
Allen was 23 of 34 for a season-high 362 yards with touchdown passes to Khalil Shakir and Ray Davis. The dual-threat quarterback ran 11 times for 68 yards and two scores a week after being the first NFL player to throw and run for three touchdowns in a regularseason game.
COMMANDERS 20, SAINTS 19
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Jayden Daniels threw two first-half touchdown passes to Terry McLaurin, and Washington narrowly held off a rally by Spencer Rattler and the Saints, winning when New Orleans failed on a 2-point conversion with no time left.
Daniels, returning to play in Louisiana a year after winning the Heisman Trophy with LSU, completed 25 of 31 passes for 226 yards. He also ran for 66 yards, highlighted by a first-down scramble on third-and-14 to set up a third-quarter field goal by the recently signed Greg Joseph that put the Commanders (9-5) ahead 17-0.
But Rattler relieved starting quarterback Jake Haener and nearly carried the Saints (5-9) to victory.
After Joseph missed a 54-yard field goal with 1:55 to go, Rattler led a 56-yard drive and threw a 1-yard TD pass to Foster Moreau as time expired.
CHIEFS 21, BROWNS 7
CLEVELAND (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw two touchdown passes before leaving in the fourth quarter with an ankle injury, Xavier Worthy ran for a score Kansas City finally didn’t have to sweat out the final minutes with a victory over mistake-prone Cleveland.
Mahomes connected for TDs in the first half with Juju Smith-Schuster and Noah Gray as the Chiefs
(13-1) built a 21-0 lead and then slogged their way through an ugly second half.
The defending Super Bowl champions have 10 wins by seven points or less, with six coming on the game’s final play.
BENGALS 37, TITANS 27
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Joe Burrow threw for 271 yards with three touchdowns for the franchise record with 36 this season and Cincinnati improved their faint playoff hopes by thumping Tennessee in a sloppy game.
The Bengals (6-8) notched the 400th regularseason win in franchise history. They still need to win out to extend their streak of winning seasons to four straight no matter where they wind up in the AFC playoff chase.
They came in without starting defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins and lost end Sam Hubbard to an injured knee after he caught a 2-yard TD pass.
COWBOYS 30, PANTHERS 14
CHARLOTTE, N.C.
(AP) — Cooper Rush threw for 214 yards and a career-high three touchdown passes, Dallas forced four Bryce Young turnovers and sacked the second-year quarterback six times as the Cowboys defeated the Panthers for their third win in the past four games.
CeeDee Lamb had nine catches for 116 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown reception and Rico Dowdle ran for a career high 149 yards on 25 carries to become the first undrafted running back to surpass 100 yards rushing in three straight games since Houston’s Arian Foster. Young, who had shown improvement in recent weeks, finished 19 of 28 for 219 yards with a career-long 83-yard touchdown toss to rookie Jalen Coker and also ran for a score. But the second-year quarterback fumbled twice and threw two interceptions to fall to 4-21 as an NFL starter.
JETS 32,
JAGUARS 25
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.
(AP) — Davante Adams caught nine passes from Aaron Rodgers for 198 yards and two touchdowns — all in the second half — and New York rallied to
beat Jacksonville to end a four-game skid.
Adams hauled in a 71-yard TD pass with 3:24 remaining and a 41-yarder that set up Breece Hall’s 1-yard plunge with 1:05 to play. In between, he made a circus catch along the sideline for a first down.
It was vintage Adams, who became the 12th player in NFL history with 100 receiving touchdowns. And vintage Rodgers, who threw for 289 yards and three scores as the Jets (4-10) topped 30 points for the first time this season. The 41-year-old quarterback also led New York with 45 yards rushing.
RAVENS 35, GIANTS 14
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Lamar Jackson tied his career high by throwing five touchdown passes in a near-perfect performance that led Baltimore to a victory over New York, sending the Giants and embattled co-owner John Mara to a franchiserecord tying ninth straight loss.
Jackson hit Rashod Bateman on scoring passes of 49 and 20 yards after finding tight Mark Andrews on a 13-yarder for the opening score. He also connected with Devontez Walker for a 21-yard TD and running back Justice Hill on a 27-yard catch-and-run that capped a 97-yard drive.
Coming off a bye week, the Ravens (9-5) moved
closer to a playoff berth. The Giants (2-12) are winless in eight games at MetLife Stadium, putting more pressure on coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen.
TEXANS 20, DOLPHINS 12
HOUSTON (AP) — Nico Collins had two touchdown receptions and Houston’s defense forced four turnovers, highlighted by two fourth-quarter interceptions by Derek Stingley, to help lead the Texans to a win over Miami.
It’s the second straight victory for the Texans (9-5), who can clinch the AFC South title for a second straight season with a loss by the Colts later Sunday. Collins had a 6-yard TD reception in the second quarter and his second 6-yard scoring grab made it 20-6 in the third. That score was set up by a 35-yard run by Dare Ogunbowale on a fake punt.
CARDINALS 30, PATRIOTS 17
GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP)
— James Conner ran for 110 yards and two touchdowns, offensive lineman Jonah Williams recovered a fumble for the first score of his NFL career and Arizona used a stellar defensive performance to beat New England.
The win kept the Cardinals (7-7) on the fringe of the playoff hunt and snapped a three-game losing streak.
New England (3-11) has lost four straight.
BUCCANEERS 40, CHARGERS 17
INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Baker Mayfield threw for 288 yards and four touchdown passes, Mike Evans had a seasonhigh 159 receiving yards and two scores and Tampa Bay dominated the second half en route to a victory over Los Angeles.
The NFC South-leading Buccaneers (8-6) trailed 17-10 late in the second quarter before scoring on five straight drives. Evans had a 57-yard TD catch with 10:23 remaining in the third quarter to give Tampa Bay a 20-17 lead. The veteran wide receiver — who had nine receptions — then hauled in a 35-yard pass late in the quarter to extend the lead to 30-17. Mayfield completed 22 of 27 passes and has a careerhigh 32 touchdowns on the season. It is the first time in his seven-year career he has eclipsed 30.
BRONCOS 31, COLTS 13
DENVER (AP) — Linebacker Nik Bonitto foiled a trick play by stepping in front of quarterback
Anthony Richardson and hijacking Adonai Mitchell’s lateral pass, then racing 50 yards for a touchdown Sunday that sealed Denver’s win over Indianapolis. With five takeaways, the Broncos (9-5) strengthened
during the first half of an NFL
(AP Photo/Rey Del Rio)
their grip on an AFC wildcard berth that would end a playoff drought dating to 2016. They began defense of their Super Bowl 50 title that season with a 4-0 start, which was the last time they sat four games above .500. The Colts (6-8) blew both an early 10-0 lead and a big opportunity to tighten the AFC wild-card race.
EAGLES 27, STEELERS 13
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Jalen Hurts threw touchdown passes to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith to mute scrutiny of the Eagles’ offense, and Philadelphia won its franchise-record 10th straight game over Pittsburgh, Eagles running back Saquon Barkey’s chase of the NFL season rushing record was slowed when he ran for just 65 yards on 19 carries.
Barkley, who still leads the NFL with 1,688 yards, took a low hit from Pittsburgh’s Minkah Fitzpatrick and missed most of the second quarter. Hurts also had a rushing touchdown on a tush push for the Eagles (12-2), who were denied a shot a clinching the NFC East when Washington beat New Orleans earlier in the day.
AFC North-leading Pittsburgh (10-4) lost for the second time in nine games but clinched a playoff spot thanks to losses by Miami and Indianapolis.
SPREADING THE JOY: World record holder and Oakley brand ambassador, Devynne Charlton, came out to support the BAAA Odd Distance Meet and share a little joy by presenting the top junior athletes with Oakley sunglasses.
BUFFALO Bills quarterback Josh Allen, foreground, celebrates after scoring against the Detroit Lions
football game yesterday in Detroit.
Devynne presents top junior athletes with Oakley sunglasses
SPREADING THE JOY: World record holder and Oakley brand ambassador, Devynne Charlton, came out to support the BAAA Odd Distance Meet and share a little joy by presenting the top junior athletes with Oakley sunglasses.