BAHAMIAN resorts were yesterday said to be “optimistic” that the peak Christmas and New Year period “may even surpass” 2023’s performance, as one executive said: “We needed this light at the end of the tunnel.” Joy Jibrilu, the Nassau and Paradise Island Promotion Board’s chief executive, told Tribune Business that member properties such as Atlantis and Baha Mar are confident of matching the prior year’s festive performance and hopeful for more given the rebound from a “soft” fall 2024.
Gov’t in $9m tax boost as ‘sword of Damocles’ lifted
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor
THE sale of four private islands in the Exuma cays has eliminated “the sword of Damocles” that was hanging over its former owners’ heads and netted the Public Treasury a multimillion dollar tax boost.
Damian Gomez KC, who is representing one of the principals behind Darby Shores Ltd, the cays’ former owner, confirmed to Tribune Business that the deal has closed after this newspaper obtained a legal document detailing a road map for ending that company’s receivership and resolving all outstanding disputes between the parties.
“The sale of the Darby Islands completed on November 29, 2024, and the Department of Inland Revenue have been paid all outstanding real property tax arrears,” a ‘Notice of Application’, filed with the Supreme Court on December 5, 2024, reveals. “There
is now no justification for the continuation of the receivership and its continuing costs.”
Mr Gomez, a former minister of state for legal affairs in the last Christie administration, told this newspaper: “Yes, the sale closed on the Friday, but we were only told about it when the cheque actually cleared. We now go into other matters that have arisen but, in terms of the Government, that sword of Damocles is gone.
“We are trying to work things out to minimise expenses, but we haven’t yet reached the stage where we can conclusively say what is likely to happen.” Tribune Business previously reported that $9.2m in unpaid real property tax arrears was owed on the four-strong island group - Big Darby Island; Little Darby; Guana Cay; and Betty Cay - and this number may have increased further by the time of the sale.
However, Mrs Jibrilu told this newspaper that rates have now “bounced back” to match 2023’s “incredible numbers against industry expectations to signal a robust Christmas and New Year season with New Providence’s hotel properties - both large and
Acknowledging the “headwinds” created by the US presidential election run-up and active hurricane season, which devastated parts of Florida and other key source markets, she disclosed that hotel room rates on average fell “by around $20” during the 2024 third quarter as travel demand for The Bahamas and other destinations softened
small - “reporting strong bookings” into 2025. Family Island resorts and tourism are also confident of a Christmas, New Year and early 2025 rebound. Kerry Fountain, the Bahama Out Island
Promotion Board’s executive director, yesterday said increased US consumer spending indicates Americans have the disposable income to travel with April 2025 forward bookings at his members’ properties
Bahamasair loses one-third of fleet for more than week
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
BAHAMASAIR’S managing director last night confirmed that one-third of its fleet has been grounded for more than a week after damages caused by a “blown tyre” forced another plane offline.
Tracy Cooper, the national flag carrier’s managing director, told Tribune Business that the temporary loss of the 70-seater ATR had worsened the aircraft shortage caused by the extended wait time for repaired plane engines to be returned by their overseas manufacturer, Pratt & Whitney.
some 5 percent ahead of 2024’s pace.
“Last year was a great year,” Mrs Jibrilu said of the 2023 festive season, “and to hear many partners say it’s equal to if not better than last year is refreshing because we had a very soft third quarter. To hear they are already full now is good news.”
Mrs Jibrilu explained that, as a result of the drop-off in business volumes between late summer and November’s first half, resorts are being cautious and not getting too carried away with their festive season expectations.
She reiterated that the sector is anticipating a
With two aircraft grounded since August due to the engine delays, the loss of another plane - sustained while taxiing at Palm Beach International Airport on Sunday, December 8 - has resulted in Bahamasair having to service its route schedule with just two, or 40 percent, of its five-strong ATR fleet available. And, when the airline’s jets are added to the mix, three of its total nine-strong fleet have been grounded.
While Bahamasair is hoping to recover the “blown tyre” ATR as early as today, Mr Cooper told this newspaper that it will now not receive the extra plane it was hoping to add
to its fleet before the peak Christmas and New Year travel period. He added that the national flag carrier is set to take possession of the additional ATR in the New Year once it has been repainted and the previous operator’s colours removed. And, while the airline is hoping to restore another grounded plane to service in early 2025, with two of the five aircraft engines
Governor: Collateral register will boost business lending
By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor
nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
THE Central Bank’s governor says business lending and confidence will be boosted by legislation to create a regulatory framework that will enable “mobile assets” to be pledged as credit security.
John Rolle, in messaged replies to Tribune Business questions, said the Transactions in Movable Property Security Bill 2024 and associated legal reforms will enable borrowers to use assets
such as accounts receivables, vehicles and intellectual property rights as collateral to obtain credit, advances and loans.
And, in return, lenders would have the confidence to advance and extend such facilities knowing that their rights and interests, and ability to secure such assets in the event of default, are fully protected. This, in turn, would help to expand lending to businesses and entrepreneurs and stimulate greater economic growth.
“The Secured Transactions Bill is one of the important planks in the reform efforts to improve the ease of doing business in The Bahamas,” Mr Rolle told this newspaper.
“It would expand the ease and range of access to commercial credit in the economy, making it more secure for both financial institutions and private financiers to lend, backed by assets other than real estate.
“These could be assets like accounts receivables, creative talent, intellectual property or any moveable property to which a monetary value can be attached. The Bahamas would have a digital, searchable public register in which
Bahamasair privatisation urged over travel delays
By ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter
anixon@tribunemedia.net
AN Abaco yacht and charter company’s proprietor yesterday demanded accountability and Bahamasair’s privatisation after the airline’s plane shortage caused travel delays for frustrated visitors.
Michael Dillon, head of Abaco Yacht and Charter Services, told Tribune Business he is having to reimburse customers because Bahamasair is “doing nothing” after losing one-third of its ninestring fleet from service for more than a week (see other article on Page 1B). “Well, what’s happening is because of the issues with the planes, my guests that have flights booked through Palm Beach are having to reroute or they’re getting in a day late,” Mr Dillon said. “It’s caused a lot of problems.
I mean, you paid for a day on a charter and now, because your flight didn’t get in, you lost that whole day and your charter is still the same period.
“Well, you paid for a charter that starts on Monday, you don’t get here on Tuesday, what does that mean? That means you got here a day late on your charter, and you just lost all that value.
“So you bought a sevenday charter where your charter starts on Monday and it ends on next Monday. Well, you don’t get here until Tuesday.
TRACY COOPER
BAIC teams with China to aid North Andros farmers
THE Bahamas Agricultural and Industrial Corporation (BAIC) has teamed with the People’s Republic of China to supply 15 tool kits to North Andros farmers.
The donation ceremony, held on December 13, saw equipment such as shovels, wheelbarrows, fertilizers and lawnmowers distributed to farmers in a bid to boost agricultural development and food security.
Yan Jiarong, Chinese ambassador to The Bahamas, said: “Food security is also a big challenge for China. China has 1.4bn people – 22 per cent of the world’s population, but only 6 per cent [of the] arable land and only 9 per cent of the world’s fresh water resources.
“We have gone through this whole process and so that’s why we really understand what The Bahamas is fighting with. And that’s why we really want to help our brothers and sisters from the global south.
“In recent years, my embassy has donated green houses to local schools in
communities and we have invited many Bahamians to participate in agriculture technical training. We have set up a demonstration farm at the Gladstone Road Agriculture Centre (GRAC).”
Leonardo Lightbourne, MP for North Andros and the Berry Islands, said: “I am honoured to accept these gifts on behalf of North Andros farmers. This is just another step in the right direction as we ensure that they are equipped with the necessary tools and resources.
“We are indeed grateful. I am sure they would be delighted to receive this donation. On behalf of the farmers, we extend a heartfelt thank you to the People’s Republic of China, Ambassador Jiarong and the chairman of BAIC.”
Darron Pickstock, BAIC chairman, reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to ensuring Bahamian farmers have access to the necessary tools and training. “I’m truly excited to stand before you today to celebrate a momentous step forward in growth and empowerment.
This is just the first of many through our partnership with the People’s Republic of China and BAIC. There is more to come,” said Mr Pickstock.
“It is incredibly fulfilling to see this partnership come to fruition in such a meaningful way for the people of The Bahamas and, in particular, the people of North Andros. In recognition of this immense potential within the agricultural sector, in particular North Andros, the Chinese embassy has taken a monumental step to help us to move the needle forward to our goals of food security, sustainability and self-sufficiency.
“This donation is not just generous, it is transformative. I truly believe that farmers are the root of all good things. On behalf of BAIC, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for this extraordinary gesture. Those tools and equipment will play a critical role in empowering the farmers of North Andros and propelling our entire agriculture sector forward.”
Eleuthera businesses struggle amid outages
By ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter anixon@tribunemedia.net
ELEUTHERA-based businesses yesterday complained that the weekend’s 24-hour plus electricity outage has cost them both time and money.
Keyshna Kemp, owner of Da Wash House in North Eleuthera, together with her employees, spent three hours washing, sanitiding and folding clients’ clothing at no additional cost after the outages this weekend. She did not charge service fees after customer clothing was “held hostage”, as the power outages also interrupted water supply to double her company’s issues.
“So what we had to do is when the water came on, when the power came onbecause the water was still off, but our tank was full at that time - we had to make sure, wash the people’s clothing over and over,” Mrs Kemp said.
“We had to put different sanitisers in them. Because remember, this is from midday on Saturday to about 7pm,last night [Sunday]. So we have to wash these people’s clothes over and over and over. Then we’re throwing them in the dryer, then we’re calling them, ‘come and get your clothes.’
“And a Lady was like, ‘yes, because I really
needed this for in the morning’. I’m just grateful that school was closed and the kids didn’t need their uniform. So we were there last night just washing the ones that were in there.”
Mrs Kemp said she stopped accepting new customers knowing that water would soon “run out”. She added that her focus was on handling the items already in her care. “Customers showed up and had they come to wash. We would have been there all night long,” she added.
“But no, our priority was the ones already in the washer that were starting to stink and needed to be rewashed over and over, needed to be sanitised. Any extra powders and solvents we use, that was on us. We didn’t charge you for us having to use extra powder, extra detergent, extra sanitizer. We washed them until we got them clean.
“Service charge on each washer is about $4 an extra load, and we had about ten to 15 washers that we had to do. So you multiply that by four, and that is separate from the sanitizers that we had to use in the people’s clothing,” Mrs Kemp continued.
“That is separate from the powder that we had to use. It’s not their fault. We couldn’t charge them for that because normally if you come to the wash house and you leave your items, we have to dry them, wash
them, fold them. We charge you extra.”
Nahla Sands, a pet sitter, said both Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) and the water interruption threw her “schedule all the way off”. She told Tribune Business she tried to fit as many clients in as she could before travelling but, due to the utility outages, she was unable to meet those commitments.
Ms Sands was in the process of grooming a dog when the power cut out on Saturday. She said she did not want to return the dog to her clients in that condition, resulting in her having to keep the dog over the weekend.
“Well, that one dog I was shaving from Saturday actually,” she said. “I literally had to keep the dog because I didn’t want to send it home half-done. I was able to complete the dog this morning after going to my father’s home to bathe the dog as water was still off. I didn’t want to keep those people’s pet any longer. It was already two days. Thankfully we are all going through this struggle and they understood.”
Annette Young, an owner of a bed and breakfast, had a generator to help get through the weekend outage as well as no guests at the time. She said a couple who own a “manor” in Whale Point made arrangements for BPL linesmen to stay the night after repairing the outages.
The Board of Directors of Bahamas Property Fund Limited declared a semi-annual dividend on its Ordinary Shares as follows:
Payment Date: 30th December 2024
Shareholders as at: 23rd December 2024 Dividend Payable per Share: $0.20
Dated: 16th December 2024
“In Whale Point, we have a gentleman, Mr Moss, Victoria and Huey Moss, and they own a building that has, I think, three or four rooms in it and they have now been contacted and set up to house, if in advance knowledge, rooms for the BPL crew so that we can house a bucket truck north of the bridge if the bridge closes,” Ms Young said.
“Because usually we are the last to be repaired if the bridge closes because all workers and bucket trucks stay south of the bridge. So the idea came from the gentleman from our Whale Point community because of the manor that is here and has availability.
“And we spoke to Mr Moss and they, in turn, spoke to BPL and they have made arrangements. I think that the BPL crew that came up last night did in fact stay there. So they worked most of the night to try to get power restored to a lot of people, especially the people in Current who were out the longest because all the other bucket trucks were south helping those people down there.”
Eleuthera residents say BPL’s bucket truck stays south of the Glass Window Bridge, resulting in prolonged outages when the bridge is closed, as linesmen cannot travel across to service the northern portion of the island.
INFLATION ENJOYS SEPTEMBER FALL
THE Bahamas’ annual inflation rate declined by 0.8 percent for the 12 months to September 2024, it was revealed yesterday, representing a modest easing to the post-COVID cost of living crisis.
The Bahamas National Statistical Institute (BNSI), unveiling its latest monthly consumer price index (CPI) report, also disclosed that September’s month-overmonth inflation rate was flat or unchanged compared to August 2024 in a further sign that cost pressures have moderated even though prices may not have declined.
Data produced by the Institute showed that September produced the third consecutive monthly fall in the annual, or trailing 12-month, inflation rate, while also representing a slight improvement over the 0.1 percent increase in the CPI Index for August.
“The monthly inflation rate in The Bahamas, which represents the overall change in price for 2024, remained constant when compared to August 2024,” the Bahamas National Statistical Institute (BNSI) said. “This change is reflected in the overall price of items purchased by the average consumer during this period.
“This September 2024 remained constant with August, and followed a 0.1 percent increase between the months of July 2024 and August 2024. On a month-to month basis, the major increases, by
group, included furnishing and household equipment and routine household maintenance, 3.7 percent; restaurant and hotels, 0.6 percent; along with miscellaneous goods and services, 0.5 percent.
“Meanwhile, the major decreases by group consisted of food and nonalcoholic, 1.6 percent; health, 0.9 percent; along with education, 0.4 percent. Furthermore, for September 2024, the consumer price index declined by 0.8 percent over the same period last year,” it added.
“The major categories that contributed to this decrease consisted of communications, 5.9 percent; transport, 3.7 percent; clothing and footwear, 2.5 percent; along with restaurants and hotels, 2.5 percent. In addition, during the same period last year, the major group increases consisted of furnishing and household equipment and routine household maintenance, 4.9 percent; alcoholic beverages, 4.3 percent; health, 3.5 percent, along with miscellaneous goods and services, 2.6 percent.”
As for fuel costs, the Bahamas National Statistical Institute said: “For the month of September 2024, both gasoline and diesel prices recorded increases of 2 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively. Meanwhile when compared to this same period last year both, gasoline and diesel declined 9.9 percent and 6.4 percent, respectively.”
Bahamasair loses one-third of fleet for more than week
currently in Pratt & Whitney’s possession forecast to be returned “in the first week of January”, this will not occur in time for the peak Christmas and New Year travel season when carriers generate a significant portion of their annual revenues.
Mr Cooper, though, signalled that Bahamasair will not be unduly impacted by the loss of the three aircraft while conceding that the airline’s financial performance over the festive season is unlikely to match the prior year’s due to the plane shortage. The three impacted ATRs are used primarily for domestic inter-island routes, with the Bahamasair chief adding that its international business will not be affected.
Knowing it was already short by two planes, Mr Cooper said Bahamasair had adjusted its Christmas schedule according to the aircraft that would be available. Besides using its jets
to service domestic routes where they could, especially Freeport, he added that the installation of runway lighting at Family Island airports has also enabled it to fly longer hours into the night. Amid passenger complaints of flight delays and cancellations, the Bahamasair managing director confirmed the Palm Beach mechanical problems when contacted by Tribune Business. “The airplane did sustain some small damages,” Mr Cooper said. “Everything has been repaired, and Bahamasair is just waiting on the manufacturer for the release of the plane.
“We’re hoping to get that tomorrow [today] or the day after. The airplane was taxiing out and suffered a blown tyre. That caused some minor damages to the aircraft around the fairing, around the wheel. That part is on the plane now. All we’re doing is waiting on the manufacturer to give us the final release.”
Social media and online speculation was yesterday suggesting that the ATR’s landing gear had collapsed, and that the US aviation regulator, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), had grounded the plane after other mechanical faults were discovered. However, this was refuted by Mr Cooper yesterday, and he was backed by other aviation industry sources familiar with the situation.
“It was a tyre that exploded and damaged the part that covers the landing gear, the fairing,” one source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said.
“It was not a gear collapse. There are two wheels. One failed, and one stayed on. There was damage they had to repair. It was not just the wheel. They had to locate the part to replace it.”
Another contact added:
“The aircraft was taxiing out and the wheel blew up. The wheel well is mangled. There is in-fighting between the mechanics and the pilots over who was to blame. So there are only two ATRs in service; two 50-seat ATR42s are in the hangar [waiting for engines]. The 70-seat ATR is in Palm Beach. As a result, the 737 jets are flying a lot but they [Bahamasair] don’t have sufficient crews on the 737s to cover all the flying.”
Data from Flight Aware, a website that tracks the routs covered by aircraft, shows that all flights for the ATR that suffered
the blown tyre, C6-BFW, have been cancelled since the Sunday, December 8, mishap. Among the cancelled flights is today’s round-trip to Exuma, with five previous flights between that island and Nassau, as well as routes to Marsh Harbour and San Salvador, also voided.
This has likely disrupted pre-Christmas travel plans for tourists and Bahamians alike, and Mr Cooper yesterday revealed that the hoped-for pre-Christmas arrival of an additional 70-seater ATR will now not occur until the New Year.
“That air plane, unfortunately, we will probably not get that until the early part of January,” he told Tribune Business
“We have to paint the plane because it’s in somebody else’s colours. It is owned by a leasing company, and it was leased to SAS. It has SAS’s livery on it, so we have to put it in the paint shop before we can get it to The Bahamas. We expect it will go into the paint shop in another week’s time.”
Mr Cooper told last month’s Long Island Business Outlook conference that two ATRs have been grounded since August as they wait for the return of repaired engines from their manufacturer, Pratt & Whitney. He explained that the latter’s supply chain woes have resulted in repair times tripling in some cases, escalating from 45-60 days to up to 150 days.
Confirming yesterday that this situation persists, the Bahamasair chief said:
“We expect we should be getting two engines from Pratt & Whitney in the first week of January. They probably have about five of our engines. We expect that we will get one of those air planes moving at the beginning of January once we get the engines for them coming back.”
Mr Cooper, though, said Bahamasair’s Christmas and New Year schedule adjustments will minimise the impact of their loss. “We understand about the engines and the two aircraft,” he said. “What we did is we adjusted the schedule going into Christmas to suit those planes that would be in service,” he added.
“It’s not having as much of an effect. We’ve just made some schedule adjustments. We have used the 737s a bit more on the domestic side; Freeport is happy to see that. We’ve augmented the schedule to fit the amount of planes we have. We’ve also used other carriers to assist us, so it’s not been as much cancellations. We’ve been completing the schedule as expected on most of the days.
“Most of our international flights are not affected. Most of the effects, and where we have done some adjustments, has been around the islands. We’re happy a lot of the Family Islands have
precision approach lights that allow us to fly in the night,” Mr Cooper said.
“In some instances, we’re flying longer days. We’d normally be finishing with some of the planes at 6.30pm to 7pm. Some of the planes are now flying to 9pm. We make the adjustments to suit what we have. There are one or two fewer flights because we have trimmed the flight schedule due to having less planes.” Mr Cooper said that while passenger volumes are in lie with typical Christmas travel, the reduction in available planes and flights means Bahamasair is unlikely to match the financial performance of prior years. “We expect that it will almost be as good as prior years,” he added.
“We have a plane or two not in circulation, so it will have some impact, but for the majority of flights going to the US and coming back, those routes will not be affected. For Christmas we always see higher load factors. We’re seeing normal load factors, somewhere around the 80 percent range or so on the flights. We expect that for Christmas time.
“We’ve been dealing with the Pratt & Whitney situation for a few months now. That was predictable. We made the adjustments so that we were OK. We’re relatively OK with the flights. We’re completing all the missions with the exception of one or two so we’re relatively OK.”
BAHAMASAIR PRIVATISATION URGED OVER TRAVEL DELAYS
Your charter still ends next Monday. So now you have a six-day charter instead of a seven-day charter.
“So the impact is actually costing people that are chartering with us a lot of money because they’re losing $2,000. It’s about $2,000 a day to get a charter or boat. They’re losing that money. It’s very frustrating,” Mr Dillon added.
“We’re helping them out, and guess what? Bahamasair isn’t doing s**t. And I’m giving customers money back, like a couple bucks back, to just try to ease them up because Bahamasair’s doing nothing. So I’m actually giving some refunds to my customers to help them out because Bahamasair is screwing them.”
Mr Dillon said governments should not be in business as most of the time such entities tend to lack accountability and quality service and products. “Anything that any government owns is terrible. United States, UK, Bahamas, it don’t matter. If the Government owns a business, it’s going to fall apart. It’s going to be junk just like Bahamasair is. If you got time to spare, fly Bahamasair, baby,” he said.
“There’s no accountability in the Government. So
why does everything keep breaking? Because there’s no accountability. Because if something breaks, they don’t fire the person that broke it. Just like Bahamasair. You don’t fire the persons that break the system. What do you do? You promote them, you give more money and then the problems get bigger and more expensive. That’s what’s happening with Bahamasair.”
Mr Dillon added that if Bahamasair is privatised, there will be more accountability, noting that privatisation would help the company run more “efficiently”.
“Bahamasair should be privatised, period,” he said.
“Let a private company run it. You want to know why?
Because as soon as they fail, they go out of business and somebody else comes in and fills the void. That’s what happens.
“So you get a private entity running Bahamasair. Now there’s accountability. And if somebody in the company is not doing things right, they get fired. But [if] you’re working for the
BETWEEN:
Government, you can’t get fired.”
Besides complaints about Bahamasair employees at the check-in desk in Palm Beach, Mr Dillon said tourists have told him that if they were to return to Abaco they would “never fly on Bahamasair there again”.
Cindy Pinder, speaking on behalf of Captain Buddy Pinder, a bonefishing guide in Abaco, said she had not heard about the plane shortage and her husband has not seen that customer turnout was declining because it is a slow period.
However, she said they expect to see an influx beginning Saturday as the week leading up to Christmas kicks off their busy season. She added that she will be able to better observe and judge customer turnout next week.
Ms Pinder, in an attempt to prepare for potential flight delays into Abaco, said if customers cannot make their Bahamasair flight she will definitely recommend other airlines as “there’s a lot of little airlines that come to Abaco”.
IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS IN THE SUPREME COURT Common Law & Equity Side
Claim No. 2024/CLE/gen/FP/00027
LAVANIE JEAN-JACQUES AKA
Defendant
NOTICE OF STANDARD CLAIM
an appearance within
(14) days from the date of this advertisement
Claim No. 2024/CLE/gen/FP/00027
judgment may be entered against you DATED this 17th day of September 2024 COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS IN THE SUPREME COURT Common Law & Equity Side BETWEEN:
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JEAN-JACQUES A.K.A LAVANIE OMNIS JEAN-JACQUES (Legal Representative of the Estate Jordany Parfait) Claimant -andISLAND BUILDERS LLC
Gov’t in $9m tax boost as ‘sword of Damocles’ lifted
The remaining proceeds from the $40m sale to a purchaser, who is understood to be a crypto currency and digital assets investor, are being held in an escrow account by the Lennox Paton law firm which is representing other Darby Shores Ltd shareholders. These monies will be invested in fixed deposits at the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), paying interest between 3.25 percent and 3.75 percent, until there is agreement on how they are to be disbursed.
The ‘notice of application’s’ road map, which will have to be approved by the Supreme Court, calls for Darby Shores Ltd’s receivers, Lindsay Cancino and Marcia Woodside, to formally be discharged from their duties but paid all costs and expenses due to them.
It also recommends that an initial $5m distribution be made to Darby Shores Ltd’s shareholders from the sales proceeds within seven
days of their receipt. It calls for Dr William Chester and Aileen Marty to both be paid $625,000, while fellow shareholders William Cook, Richard Davis and William Saeger are to get $1.25m each.
Efforts to resolve the Darby Islands’ fate have been complicated by the falling-out, and subsequent legal dispute, that has embroiled the owners in a Supreme Court battle. However, it is understood all sides agreed to a Supreme Court Order affirming that they would accept the purchase and work towards the deal’s completion, with a portion of the sales proceeds earmarked to liquidate the unpaid property tax debt.
The impending sale came after Senior Justice Deborah Fraser rejected a bid by Dr Chester to have his partners held in “contempt of court” for breaching a previous court Order requiring all sides to co-operate over efforts to market the islands to potential buyers.
The complaint was backed by Mr Cancino and Ms Woodside, who had been appointed as receivers for the Darby Islands by the Supreme Court with a mandate to “resolve the outstanding property taxes” via selling the cays or any other method that would “prevent [their] being subject to a forced Bahamas government sale at auction”.
Detailing the background, senior justice Fraser said: “In or about 2010, the Darby Islands began accruing real property taxes. In response, Darby Shores Ltd sought to sell a few of the islands and use the proceeds from sale to settle the taxes. A total of about $9.204m in real property taxes was due and owing at the material time.
“On 10 July, 2023, due to the mounting real property tax sums and demand notices from the Department of Inland Revenue, the shareholders of Darby Shores agreed to sell the Darby Islands.” Mr Cook, as the company’s president,
signed an exclusive agreement with the Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty real estate firm some seven days later to market the four islands at a collective purchase price of $44.5m.
“On August 9, 2023, the Department of Inland Revenue served its final demand on Darby Shores in relation to the outstanding real property taxes,” senior justice Fraser added. Two days later, Dr Chester “sought orders declaring that the defendants were acting in bad faith and mismanaging Darby Shores by allegedly failing to pay real property taxes owed to the Department of Inland Revenue in the sum of $9.204m”.
This led to the receivers’ appointment and a Supreme Court Order setting out their powers and mandating that all involved “co-operate fully” with efforts to market the islands for sale. “Based on tension and disagreement amongst the shareholders relating to the value of the Darby Islands, they each
GOVERNOR: COLLATERAL REGISTER WILL BOOST BUSINESS LENDING
transactions would be recorded.
“It would establish the legally, enforceable priority in which lenders could assert their claim if there is a default by the borrower. Importantly, it would prevent the fraudulent, multiple pledging of the same collateral,” the Governor added.
“The benefit for the country is that it would increase the potential for business lending over the medium-term. Those who have non-real estate assets would have more opportunities to borrow against such assets. Similarly, it would give potential financiers, banks or otherwise, more confidence to lend to a broader cross-section of entrepreneurs.”
The Transactions in Movable Property Security Bill and complementary legal amendments were on the House of Assembly’s agenda to be debated no less than three times’ in recent weeks. However, this has been overtaken by other events and developments within Parliament and has yet to happen.
The Bills calls for the creation of a Collateral Registry, and appointment of a registrar to oversee it. This will be responsible for recording all movable assets that are pledged as loan security, and will be
attached to the Registrar General’s Department.
The legislation also calls for accompanying changes to be made to existing laws such as the Companies Act and International Business Companies Act, plus the Money Lending Act and Sale of Goods Act.
The Central Bank previously released the draft legislation, known then as the Movable Property Security Interest Bill, as far back as 2022 for public consultation and feedback as it sought to transform secured lending in The Bahamas by enabling entrepreneurs, start-ups and micro, small and medium-sized businesses to pledge mobile assets - such as vehicles and equipment - to lenders as security for credit they extend.
So-called “intangible assets” - accounts receivables (factoring) and intellectual property rights - could also be used as loan collateral under the Bill, with the registry securing the rights of both lenders and borrowers by registering liens, mortgages and other charges over such assets.
“We’ll also be communicating back to the Government on the legal framework that’s proposed and will be part of the consultation,” Mr Rolle said in early January 2023. “We should expect this year that the legislation will be
Pursuant to the Provisions of Section 138 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, 2000, (As Amended) NOTICE is hereby given that CHAMAELEON HOLDINGS SA has been dissolved and that the name has been struck from the Register of Companies with effect from the 20th of November, 2024.
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NOTICE
Rocko Ltd.
Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas registered in the Register of Companies under the registration number 209772 B.
(In Voluntary Liquidation)
Notice is hereby given that the liquidation and the winding up of the Company is complete and the Company has been struck off the Register of Companies maintained by the Registrar General.
Dated this 16th day of December A.D. 2024.
TOM MOTMANS LIQUIDATOR
sought legal advice from different counsel on the best way forward,” senior justice Fraser added. “A flurry of applications were subsequently filed in these proceedings by the parties relating to the Darby Islands. Based on the failure of Darby Shores to settle the outstanding taxes, the Department of Inland Revenue moved to sell the Darby Islands by its power of sale.”
This led to the injunction blocking the seizure by the tax authorities and permission launch of Judicial Review proceedings.
Senior justice Fraser subsequently dismissed the contempt action by Dr Chester. The real property tax arrears were split between the four islands with some $4.656m owed on Big Darby Island; a further $3.441m on Little Darby; $986,279 for Guana Cay; and $120,346 on Betty Cay.
Big Darby Island and Little Darby cover some 793 acres combined. Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty,
in a brochure to market the property, said: “Big Darby, a 554-acre island, boasts an historic structure known affectionately by locals as ‘The Castle’, which was built by a previous owner, Sir Guy Baxter, in 1938.
“During his ownership, Big Darby island was a working plantation with goat, cotton, palm oil and fruit as its products. The ‘castle’ is in great need of repair, but will make an incredible private home or community club house for a future investor. Darby Island is home to over 14 beaches, two miles of ocean frontage and features a few stunning caves dotting its perimeter.
“Positioned in close proximity to Darby, only about 50 metres between them, the 238-acre island of Little Darby includes a 1,600 foot runway, a three-bedroom main home, three renovated cottages offering a total of seven bedrooms and multiple powder sand beaches.”
finalised and taken through the Government approvals process. We’re going to be intensely focused around the execution of the platform for the collateral registry.
“There’s one aspect of that which will come out in the public consultation. It’s not a difficult issue to resolve, but it’s an important one. What does this registry look like, and who operates it? We know it will be digital and online, but we need to be careful not to build too much super
structure to support the collateral registry. There will be some important decisions around how we source operations of the registry.”
Edison Sumner, principal of Sumner Strategic Partners, previously told Tribune Business that the mobile collateral registry was “a tremendous step in the right direction” provided it is accompanied by the necessary training.
While he “fully endorses” the regulator’s plan to transform the laws
NOTICE
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, (as amended) NOTICE is hereby given that NABEL Holdings Ltd. is in dissolution and the date of commencement of the dissolution is 13 December 2024.
William Ganem Bechara LIQUIDATOR
c/o Clairmont Trust Company Limited Pineapple House #4 Lyford Cay P.O. Box SP-64284 Nassau, Bahamas
NOTICE
MBO LTD.
Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas registered in the Register of Companies under the registration number 210061 B.
(In Voluntary Liquidation)
Notice is hereby given that the liquidation and the winding up of the Company is complete and the Company has been struck off the Register of Companies maintained by the Registrar General.
Dated this 16th day of December A.D. 2024.
VIVIANE ZUKERMAN CONDE CALDAS LIQUIDATOR
NOTICE Servilha Trettel Ltd.
Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Registration number 210666 B (In Voluntary Liquidation)
Notice is hereby given that the above-named Company is in dissolution, commencing on the 13th day of December A.D. 2024.
Articles of Dissolution have been duly registered by the Registrar. The Liquidator is Mr. Lucília Tretel Servilha, whose address is Rua Italia 55 B. Sta. Rosa Cuiabá – MT, CEP: 78040-240, Brazil. Any Persons having a claim against the above-named Company are required on or before the 31st day of December A.D. 2024 to send their names, addresses and particulars of their debts or claims to the Liquidator of the Company, or in default thereof they may be excluded from the beneft of any distribution made before such claim is proved.
Dated this 13th day of December A.D. 2024. LUCÍLIA TRETEL SERVILHA LIQUIDATOR
underpinning secured lending in The Bahamas, it had to educate micro, small and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) on how they can properly monetise intangible assets such as intellectual property so that they can be employed for loan collateral.
A former Chamber of Commerce chief executive, who sits on the Government-sponsored venture capital fund’s Board, he added that even entities such as the latter - established to give small business better access to capital - require some level of security for any debt financing
provided as do guarantors of these advances.
“I think it’s a very good step in advancing the ability of SMEs to access capital, especially for those that might not have had the security that financial institutions are looking for to collateralise loans,” Mr Sumner told this newspaper. “The fact the Central Bank is moving into this new system will be tremendous for SMEs. The direction the Central Bank is moving in, I fully endorse it. It’s a tremendous advance in funding and embracing ways to capitalise on the SME space.”
NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN as follow:-
(a) FITPART DIVERSIFIED STRATEGIES PROFESSIONAL FUND LDC is in voluntary dissolution under the provisions of the (International Business Companies Act, 2000)
(b) The dissolution of the said company commenced on the 16th December. 2024 when the articles of dissolution were submitted to and registered by the Registrar General.
(c) The Liquidator of the said company is Fitpart Fund Administration Services Ltd, The Bahamas Financial Center, Shirley & Charlotte Streets, P O Box CB-13515, Nassau Bahamas.
Dated this 16th day of December 2024
Fitpart Fund Administration Services Limited Liquidator
NOTICE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE LTD.
Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas registered in the Register of Companies under the registration number 206604 B.
(In Voluntary Liquidation)
Notice is hereby given that the liquidation and the winding up of the Company is complete and the Company has been struck off the Register of Companies maintained by the Registrar General.
Dated this 16th day of December A.D. 2024.
VIVIANE ZUKERMAN CONDE CALDAS LIQUIDATOR
NOTICE Cinque Ltd.
Incorporated under the International Business Companies Act, 2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Registration number 209294 B (In Voluntary Liquidation)
Notice is hereby given that the above-named Company is in dissolution, commencing on the 16th day of December A.D. 2024.
Articles of Dissolution have been duly registered by the Registrar. The Liquidator is Mr. Gabriel Nishioka Rombenso, whose address is Rua Soldado Bento de Abreu, 70, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 22640-290, Brazil. Any Persons having a Claim against the above-named Company are required on or before the 31st day of December A.D. 2024 to send their names, addresses and particulars of their debts or claims to the Liquidator of the Company, or in default thereof they may be excluded from the beneft of any distribution made before such claim is proved.
Dated this 16th day of December A.D. 2024. GABRIEL NISHIOKA ROMBENSO LIQUIDATOR
Christmas ‘light at end of tunnel’ for tourism
oliday period that matches 2023’s financial and operational performance, “but is optimistic it may surpass last year”. The Promotion Board chief said: “With the uncertainty we have seen with September and October, we are optimistic that it may even surpass.
“The great news is that our partners are looking forward to a strong Christmas and festive season. Our big resorts are reporting strong bookings through the New Year and the smaller ones are following suit. Both major resorts [Atlantis and Baha Mar] are currently enjoying full occupancy due to their events, which is great news as well.”
As for hotel rates, a key indicator of visitor demand, Mrs Jibrilu added: “They have maintained, surprisingly, with last year. They
fell by about $20 for the third quarter, but they are back to last year’s rates.
Those were very high, incredible rates, and to see them bounce back and people are coming to pay them...
“We expected the rates to soften, but they are holding. We need this light at the end of the tunnel. We know the third quarter was definitely well below last year, and that was for stopover visitors and member properties, but there were a number of factors we have to take into consideration, not least the US presidential election and hurricane season without a doubt.”
While The Bahamas was again spared a major hurricane, key tourism source markets such as Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas were all severely impacted.
“We had a number of headwinds we were fighting against, and now things
have stabilised post-election we’re looking forward to the return of good numbers,” Mrs Jibrilu said.
Mr Fountain, meanwhile, said forward bookings for Bahama Out Island Promotion Board member properties from December 2024 through to April 2025 are matching last year’s as he voiced confidence that American consumers and households are “starting to loosen the purse strings” and beginning to spend once again following the US presidential election in November.
Signalling that this represents a positive development for travel demand and Bahamian tourism, he said differences between Easter’s timing are likely responsible for April 2025’s forward bookings being 5 percent ahead of this year’s comparatives while March next year is lagging slightly behind.
“Based on data to November 2024, what I noted in general terms is that forward bookings from December through April are on par with this year,” Mr Fountain told Tribune Business. “We were on a record booking pace for the beginning of the year [2024], and in late August, September and October we started to see some declines.
“We believe that had a lot to do with what happened on November 5, and also hurricane season and all the talk about inflation. Forward bookings for December through April are on a par with last year. We’re seeing a definite bump in December and April, and we’re starting to see - I don’t think it’s anything to be concerned about - but the March numbers are a little off compared to this year.
“Again, this is likely because Easter was in March this year. Our numbers for April 2025 are showing a 5 percent increase above what it was this year, and it’s because Easter is on April 21, not March 31. We noted that in terms of business things seemed to be levelling off from the slump we were in in September, October and November.”
Mr Fountain said he and Bahamian resorts are drawing increased confidence for the industry’s 2025 prospects from recent data showing the strength of US consumer spending on the key shopping dates of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
He added that consumers are “starting to release and spend the dollars” following Donald Trump’s return to the US presidency, with both days seeing “record spending” as shoppers “lean more” to online
NASDAQ HITS A RECORD AS WALL STREET DRIFTS AHEAD OF FEDERAL RESERVE'S MEETING
By STAN CHOE AP Business Writer
U.S. stock indexes
drifted amid mixed trading Monday, ahead of this week's upcoming meeting by the Federal Reserve that could set Wall Street's direction into next year.
The S&P 500 rose 0.4%, coming off its first losing week in the last four. The Nasdaq composite climbed 1.2% to a record, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average was a laggard and fell 110 points, or 0.3%.
purchases and mobile phones over laptops and desktop computers.
“If you look at what Americans spent during Cyber Monday it’s like $13.7bn compared to $12.4bn last year, and then on Black Friday they spent $10.8bn compared to $9.8bn last year. They’re starting to loosen up on the purse strings,” Mr Fountain added, noting that some $7.6bn of spending during November 2024 related to “buy now, pay later” deals.
“That’s something we need to watch,” he said.
“We’re looking at how that can apply to the travel business. It’s definitely something we have to keep an eye on. We definitely have to explore it. That sweet spot, that booking window, people are back to booking 60-90 days before they travel. That’s like our sweet spot.”
Broadcom leaped 11.2% to help lead the S&P 500 for a second straight day after delivering a profit report last week that beat analysts' expectations. The technology company is riding a wave of enthusiasm about its artificial-intelligence offerings in particular.
Gates, Nassau, The Bahamas applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 10th day of December, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.
The market's main event, though, will arrive on Wednesday when the Federal Reserve will announce its last move on interest rates for the year. The widespread expectation is that it will cut its main rate for a third straight time, as it tries to boost the slowing job market after getting
inflation nearly all the way down to its target of 2%.
The question is how much more it will cut rates next year, and Fed officials will release projections for where they see the federal funds rate ending 2025, along with other economic indicators, once their meeting concludes. Fed Chair Jerome Powell will also answer questions in a press conference following the meeting. For now, the general expectation among traders is that the Fed may cut a couple more times in 2025, according to data from CME Group. But such expectations have been shrinking following reports suggesting inflation may be tougher to get all the way down to 2% from here.
NOTICE is hereby given that MANVELLA VINCENT of
Besides last month's slight acceleration in inflation, another worry is that President-elect Donald Trump's preferences for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation down the line. Goldman Sachs economist David Mericle has dropped his earlier forecast of a cut by the Fed in January, for example. Beyond the possibility of tariffs, he said Fed officials may also want to slow their cuts because of uncertainty about exactly how low rates need to go so that they no longer press the brakes on the economy. Expectations for a series of cuts to rates by the Fed have been one of the main reasons the S&P 500 has set an all-time high 57 times so far this year and is heading for one of its best years of the millennium.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that MONTINAT CLAUDE of Fritz Lane off East Street, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas and that any person who knows any reason why registration/ naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twentyeight days from the 17th day of December, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that MAXWELL RUMSFIELD OSEI of P. O. Box SP-62634, Stapledon Gardens, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 17th day of December, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
NOTICE
NOTICE is hereby given that RASHELL BRANDA UTILE of Faith Avenue North, Carmichael Road, New Providence, Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 17th day of December, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.
FLEUR
JUDGE
Tropical Heaven Day Spa hosts first annual Women’s Retreat
By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
UNDER theleadership ofLyndisha Murphy, CEO and founder of Tropical Heaven Day Spa, wellness took centre stage in Eleuthera during the spa sFirst Annual Women’sRetreat. Theretreat,a weekendof relaxation,reflection, and rejuvenation, brought together a group ofwomen eager to strengthen their faith,nurture their mental well-being, and empower one another. Theserene island setting, combinedwith heartfeltdiscussionsand therapeuticactivities, leftattendees feelingrefreshedand inspired.
Ms Murphy,a massagetherapist and wellness advocate,shared her motivationfor hostingthe event: “I wanted to create a space for women to connect, share,and grow. Topics such as marriage,single-hood, divorce,single parenthood,intimacy with God,and mentalhealth are deeplyimportantto me,andI wanted to offer a space where these issues canbe discussedopenly and authentically, she said.
The retreat featured empowering talksfrom womenwho sharedpersonalstoriesof resilienceandsuccess.
Discussions on navigating life s challenges, whetherin relationships, single parenthood, or professional endeavors wereat the heart oftheevent. Attendeesalsoengaged in candid conversations about mental health,a topic Ms Murphy wasintentional aboutin-
cluding.
“Mentalhealth wasincludedbecauseof itsincreasingimportance in today’s world,particularly for womenwho oftenjugglemultiple roles.Additionally,I wantedtoensure thatthe topicswere broad enough to resonatewith a diverse group ofwomen butalso intimate enoughto fosterdeepconnection and healing.By addressingthese areas, Ihoped to createa wellrounded and empowering experience for all attendees,” she noted.
One of the most moving moments occurred during the all-white Thanksgiving dinner, where women sharedstories oftriumph andperseverance. Aparticularly poignant storycame froma participant who achievedproperty ownership against significant odds. Another attendee recounted her journey of buildinga successful businessinjust threeyears,inspiring others topursue their dreams with determination.
Theretreat seamlesslyblended relaxation and personal growth.
Among thestandout experiences were beachmassages, whereattendees couldunwind bythe water, andsessions onintimacy withGod, offering opportunitiesfor prayer, worship, andspiritual renewal.
Every attendee hadthe opportunitytoenjoy arelaxing,rejuvenatingmassageby theserenewaters ofEleuthera. Thesound ofthe waves crashing, the gentle breeze, andthesoothing touchofskilled therapistscombined tocreatea deeplycalming experience,” Ms Murphy said.
During the Intimacywith God session, Ms Murphy said there were moments ofdeep prayer,reflection, and worship - which allowed everyone to reconnect with their faith and deepen their spiritual journeys. She believes the sessions on intimacywithGod broughtasense of peace and renewal
A notable addition to the retreat was Alkaboost Water, a wellness partner whosemission topromote hydrationand healthalignedperfectly with the event s goals. The company s founder,Jaime Hanna, also aretreat participant,celebrated three years of business success, further inspiring the group.
“Her story of entrepreneurship and perseverance resonated deeply with everyone,as sheshared how she builther brand fromthe ground up. Her presencenot only highlightedthe powerofdetermination butalso reinforcedtheretreat s focus on empowering women to achievetheir goals.Alkaboost s mission to supportoverall health and vitality mirrorsthe retreat’s goal ofempowering womento nurturetheir bodies,minds,and spirits, said Ms Murphy.
She said this year s retreat was graced bythe presenceof phenomenal women whoexemplify resilience, creativity, and business excellence.Eachbringing auniqueperspective andpassion tothe table, sharing theirjourneys oftriumph and innovation.
Participants included names like Shonda Ferguson,CEO of Shonda s Design inFt Lauderdale, Florida; Shellie Murphy,CEO and
Event Planner ofDazzling Decorative Designs in Nassau, Bahamas; Jeanette Capron Gumbs,CEO of Mochas Variety Store in Eleuthera, Bahamas; Tiska Capron, owner of Native Organics in Eleuthera Bahamas; Tracy Steel,CEO of Parat’s DynastyDesigns inNassau,Bahamas; J Ambrister - Deaconess; Danika Albury -Minister of the Gospel; and Ms Murphy herself. The success ofthe retreat has shaped Ms Murphy’s vision for futureevents.She planstoincorporate moreinteractive workshops, networking opportunities,and an expanded range of topics, including financial empowermentand leadership development. Additionally, she envisions creating an online community to sustain the connections andsupport fosteredduring the retreat.
This retreat perfectly aligns with the mission of Tropical Heaven Day Spa,asboth arededicatedtopromotingoverall wellnessandpersonal growth.At TropicalHeaven Day Spa,we focuson holisticcare, helpingindividuals findbalance and relaxation inevery aspect of their lives, said Ms Murphy. As attendees departedwith curatedgiftbags andrenewedspirits, theconsensuswas clear:theFirst Annual Women’sRetreat wasa resounding success.
Reflecting onits impact,Ms Murphy concluded: “The retreat provided a transformative space for women toshare theirstories, gain invaluable insights, and strengthen their faith, leaving them inspired to pursue their personaland professional goals with renewed confidence.”
Bahamian physician accepted into Yale University fellowship programme
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
WITNESSING the loss of family members dueto variousendocrine conditions sparked a passion in the areaofendocrinology withafocus onpaediatrics forDrNakeesha Elaine Longley-Sands.
Now acceptedinto aprestigious medical fellowshipprogramme at Yale UniversityChildren's Hospital, Paediatric Endocrinology Fellowship programmein Connecticut USA, theBahamian medical professionalis setto works alongside renownedphysicians gain trainingand muchneeded experienceto continuewhat shebelieves to be her life’s work.
Dr Longley-Sands is currently completing herPaediatric Residencyprogramme atFlushingMedical Centre inQueens, New York. Priorto herpaediatric careerat Flushing Hospital, Dr LongleySands worked in the Paediatrics department at Princess Margaret Hospital here in The Bahamas.
Her educational background includes aMedical Doctoratedegree fromSt Matthew'sUniversityin theCayman Islandsand aBachelor's ofScience inbiology witha
minor inbiochemistry fromOral RobertsUniversity inTulsa,Oklahoma. Inaddition, DrLongleySands completed Phase 1 and Phase 2 research and clinical trials for majorpharmaceutical companiesat FrontageClinicalServices, whichis aclinical research organisationin Secaucus,New Jersey.
I decided from the age of 12 that Iwanted tobecome apediatrician.I discoveredmylove forendocrinology shortly after finishing medicalschool whenI workedat anadult endocrinologyclinicprior to starting as an intern at PMH.
“It intrigued me because many of my family members suffered with endocrine conditions such as hypocalcemia, hypothyroidism, type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity,” she told Tribune Health.
As she continued training, Dr Longley- Sands kept an open mind as she was exposed to all areas within thefield ofpaediatrics. However, it was not until she began electivesin PediatricEndocrinologyduring herresidency shewas reminded of her initial interest.
I love thatendocrinology encompasses such a wide variety of conditions thatinvolve multiple
hormonal pathways which affect every organ system in the body. I enjoythe multidisciplinaryapproachto managingeachpatient. And I also enjoy the countless opportunities for researchin this field,” she said.
Paediatric endocrinologistsare physicians whospecialise inthe care of children with hormonal disorders.
Endocrinologists play an important role inmanaging various diseases in childrensuch as diabetestype 1and2, growthproblems, obesityand otherrare metabolic andreproductive disorders and also can play an important role inthemanager ofpatientswho haveundergone treatmentfor various forms of cancer.
Pediatric endocrinologistssee patients both in the inpatient and outpatient settings.
“Weseepatients withawide spectrum ofconditions including but not limited to growth disorders, pubertaldisorders, metabolicdisorders such as diabetes and obesity, adrenal disorders,pituitary disorders, bonedisease, thyroidand parathyroid disease and genetic conditions withrelated endocrinopathies.
Dr Longley-Sands’ grandmother and other relatives suffer from endocrine issues and it has fueled her ever since.
My maternal grandmother suffered fromboth hypothyroidism andsevere hypocalcemiawhich laterresulted inseizures.She playeda pivotalrolein myupbringing so I watched firsthand whenshesuffered withthecomplications of her condition.
“On my father ’s side of the family, there is a strong family history of diabetes and obesity which affected both of my grandparents andalmostevery auntanduncle
that Iknew. I lost bothmy grandparents andan uncleto complications of uncontrolleddiabetes. Because of my lovefor my family members,I developedaninherent desiretosee patientswithsimilar conditions. I also saw the need for pediatric endocrinologistsin The Bahamas given the high prevalence of obesityand both type 1and 2 diabetesin ourpatientpopulation, andsaw itas voidthatI couldassist in filling inthe future,” she said.
One of the most memorable experiences she hashad working in paediatrics that wasa solidifying moment was having to attend to a child who suffereda severe traumatic brain injury.
“While working asa house officer in paediatrics atPMH, I was called in the earlyhours of the morning to attend to a child who suffered asevere traumaticbrain injury aftera chest ofdrawers fell on top ofhim. It was ascary time as hewas initiallyon thebrink of death. However, Iwatched daily in awe at the miraculous recovery that he made. For me, it solidified that I wason therightpath becausechildren have suchan innocence and even more so, a resilience about them and willingness to live. It was a very rewarding experience that helped meto decidethat Pediatrics was the right career path for me. Dr Longley-Sandsis gratefulto herhusband Clintonaswell asher family andrelatives fortheir support along this journey.
A place of tranquility
The PublicHospitals Authority (PHA) Foundation and Rubis Bahamas unveiled the Tranquility Courtyard Garden atthe Princess Margaret HospitalOncology Centreon Thursday, December.
The team from Rubis was headed by RaymondSamuels, managingdirector, andMrs MicahKnowles, sales and marketing manager.PHA Foundations director Alana Major joined hospital administrator Jessica Cartwright, Medical Chiefof Staff Dr Francis Williams,and thePMH Oncology team in formally accepting the donation from Rubis Bahamas. Rubisgenerously donatedlandscaping services to enhance the space attheOncology Centre,creatinga tranquiland therapeuticenvironment for patients, families,and healthcare staff.Rubis partneredwith thehospital torevitalise the area,adding additional trees, seatingareas, and overall beautification of the courtyard,whichoffers apeacefulanduplifting atmosphere.
Sister Sister BreastCancer Support Group, represented by Shantell Cox Hutchinson, hasbeen instrumentalin thesuccessof thelandscapinginiti-
ative byRubis and attendedthe brief unveiling ceremony. The PublicHospitals Authority notesthat thisgestureis partof Rubis's ongoing commitmentto supportingthewell-being ofthecommunity,and thePrincessMargaret Hospital staffare deeplygrateful for theircontribution inimprovingthe hospital experiencefor thoseundergoing cancer treatment.
How to avoid holiday heartache
You ve had theroasted turkey, mashedpotatoes, fruitcake,maybe some cookies,too and afew glasses of spiked eggnog.And while certainlythe holidaysareall aboutcelebratingwith greatfood, friendsand family, those good times often lead to overdoing it.
Toomuch food,sweets andalcoholcando moredamagetoyour body than just wrecking a diet, says Cleveland Clinic, Ohio cardiologist, LeslieCho, MD.Itcanlead toholiday heart syndrome. Dr Cho to gives abetteridea ofwhatthissyndrome is, why it happens andhow to cut it back. Holiday heartsyndrome refersto heart issues thathappen because of overindulgingin saltyfoods andalcohol.Whileeating anddrinkingtoo muchis somethingthat canoccur any time of year, it’s called holiday heartsyndrome becausetheholidays that time ofcelebrating with a continualflowof saltysnacksand festive cocktails is when we overdo it the most. All ofthat saltand alcoholcan causeyour heartto beatirregularly, also knownas atrial fibrillation (or AFib).In theshort term,it canbe simplyanalarming sideeffectofa bit too much celebrating,but in the long term, it can lead to serious heart issues, includingheart failureand stroke.
Whilepeople withpreexisting heart issues are more likely to experi-
enceholiday heartsyndrome, itcan also happen to people without any heart issues.
“Formany people,theholidays mean thatspecial foodsare suddenly in abundance, such as cookies, candy and richdishes,” shesays. “And it’s not justone meal, but around of eating, drinking andmaking merry that is markedlydifferent from the rest of the year. It’s also the constant presence of food thathelps feed ourtendency to go overboard. “We’re often surroundedby lotsoffood duringthis time, Dr Choadds. So, whether you’rein theoffice orwhether you re with your family,you tend to eat foodsthat arevery differentthan your normal diet.”
While people already dealing with heartconditions aremore likelyto experience holiday heart syndrome, they’re hardly alone.Even people without heart issues might notice a rapid heartbeat or skipped beats after drinking toomuch alcoholwhich typically isn t cause for concern.
The typical symptoms of atrial fibrillation include heart palpitations, lackofenergy, dizziness,chestdiscomfort and shortness of breath.
Buteveryoneshould beawareof the dangersand watchthe intakeof food to avoid these symptoms.
Avoiding holidayheart syndrome isn’t all that hard, even if you want to takepart inallthefine foodsand drinks this time of year has to offer. Thekeytokeep inmindistoplan ahead and take everything in moderation.
Planning ahead whenattending a party is important, Dr Cho says. You don’thaveto avoidrichfoodsaltogether.However, sheemphasizes being awareof whatyou’re eating and how much you re eating can go a long way toward staying on track.
“Oftentimes people think, ‘Oh my gosh, I can t have anything , Dr Cho says. “No, youcanhave everything you want except you must haveitin moderationandbe mindful of what you’re eating.”
She recommends having a smaller breakfast and lunchif you know you’re going to have a big dinner that evening.Another approachis toeat beforeyougo toaholidayfunction, so you renot temptedtooverdoit. And if you’d like to have dessert, just
take a smaller slice. Atthe party, bewaryof foodsthat are heavy incream, sugar or salt. Also, Dr Choadvises against drinking alcohol inexcess. It s okay to have a cocktail, she says, but enjoy it slowly,throughout theevening instead of binge drinking. It’simportant tobemindful aftera night ofholiday indulgence,too, Dr Chosays.Using anonsteroidalantiinflammatory drug(NSAID) like Motrin, Aleveor Advilto relieve hangover symptoms canput even more stress on the heart. Theytendto increaseyourblood pressure, too,” saysDr Cho. “So, if they increase yourblood pressure, some peopleend uphaving heart failure because it’s like a vicious cycle. So, it s important just to watch what you’re eating and doing.” Holidays can be an extremely busy and stressful timeof year. Don’t forgetto setasidesometime torest and relieve stress that can make a big difference in heart health, too. If youhave aclean billof health andhave nototherwiseexperienced that irregular heartbeat, the condition should resolve on itsown. If issues, including shortnessof breathand dizziness, persist,contact your healthcare provider. If you already have heart conditions orrisks, DrCho recommends being ontop ofyour dietwhile keeping aclose eye onyour weight and blood pressureduring the holidays.If symptomsor numbersare concerning, she says it s best to contact your doctor.
DR Nakeesha Elaine Longley-Sands
Pearl Young, the first woman to work in a technical role at NASA, overcame barriers and 'raised hell' -her legacy continues today
By Caitlin Milera University of North
Dakota
THIRTEEN yearsbefore any other woman joinedthe National AdvisoryCommittee forAeronautics – or theNACA, NASA's predecessor – in atechnical role,a young labassistant namedPearl Youngwas makingwaves inthe
agency. Her legacy as an outspoken and persistent advocatefor herself and herteam wouldpave theway for women in science, technology, engineeringand mathematicsfor decades to come. My interest in Young's story is grounded in my ownidentity as a woman in a STEMfield. I find
strength insharing thestories of women who madelasting impacts in STEM.I am the directorof the NASA-fundedNorth DakotaSpace Grant Consortium, where we aim to fosteran openand welcomingenvironment in STEM. Young's story is oneof persistencethrough setbacks, advocacy forherself and
others, and building a community of support. Facing challengesfrom thebeginning Young was ascientist, an educator,a technicaleditorand aresearcher. Bornin 1895,she wasno stranger tothe barriersthat women faced at the time.
Intheearly 20thcentury,college degrees in STEM fields were considered"less suitedforwomen," and graduateswith thesedegrees were consideredunconventional women. Professorswho agreedto mentor womenin advancedSTEM fields in the 1940s and 1950s were often accused of communism.
In 1956, theNational Science Foundationeven publishedanarticle with thetitle: "Women are NOT for Engineering."
Despite society'ssexist standards, Young earned a bachelor's degreein 1919withatriple majorin physics,mathematics andchemistry, with honors,from the UniversityofNorth Dakota.Shethen beganher decades-longcareerin STEM.
Becoming a technical editor Despite the hostileculture for women,Young successfullynavigated multiple technicalroles at the NACA.With hervariedexpertise, sheworked inseveral divisions –physics, instrumentation and aerodynamics – and soon noticed a trend acrossthe agency.Many of thereports hercolleagueswrote weren't well writtenenough to be useful. In a 1959 interview, Young spoke of herstart atthe NACA:"Those were fruitful years. I was interested ingood writingand suggestedthe need for a technicaleditor. The engineerslackedthe timetomake readable reports."
Threeyears aftervoicingher suggestion, Youngwas reassigned tothenewly createdroleofassistanttechnical editorin thepublications section in 1935. After six years in that role, Young earned the titleofassociate technicaleditorin 1941.
In 1941, the NACA established theAircraft EngineResearch Laboratory,now knownasNASA Glenn Research Center,in Cleveland.This newfield centerneeded experienced employees,so two years later,NACA leadershipinvited Young to lead a new technical editing section there. It wasat the AircraftEngine ResearchLaboratory thatYoungpublishedher mostnotabletechnical work, theStyle Manualfor Engineering Authors, in 1943. NASA's History Office even referred to Young asthe architectof the NACA technical reports system. Young's style manual allowed the agency to communicate technological progressaround theglobe. This manual included specific formatting rulesfor technical writing, which wouldincrease consistency forengineers andresearchers reporting their data and experimental results. It was essential for efficient World War II operations andwas translatedinto multiple languages. Butitwasn't untilafterthispublicationthat Youngfinallyreceived thepromotion tofull technicaleditor, 11years after shevoiced the needfortherole attheagency.She was thefirst person tohold this role, but she had to start at the assistant level, then moveup to asso-
ciate before receivingthe full technical editor designation. Pearl Young 'raising hell' Perhaps themost noteworthy piece of Young's story is her character.While advocatingforherself and hercolleagues, Youngoften had to challenge authority. She stood up for her editing section when male supervisors wrongfullyaccused themof makingmistakes. She wroteofficial proposals to properly classify her office in the research division at the Aircraft Engine Research Laboratory. She regularly acknowledgedthe contributions of her entire team for the achievements they shared. She also secured extra personnel to lessen unbearable workloads and wroteofficial memorandumstoensure that her colleagues earned rightful promotions. Young often referred tothese actionsas "raising hell."
The archival documents I've analyzedindicate thatYoung'sperformance at theNACA was exemplarythroughout hercareer.In 1967, she was awarded the University of NorthDakota's prestigiousSioux Awardinrecognition ofher professionalachievements and service to the university.
In 1995, andagain in 2014, NASA LangleyResearch Center dedicated atheater inher name. The new theater is located in NASA's Integrated Engineering Services Building. In 2015,Young wasinducted into the inaugural NASA/NACA Langley Hallof Honor.But throughout her career, not all of her colleagues shared this complimentaryviewof Youngandher work.
One of Young'ssupervisors in 1930 thought it necessary to assess her "attitude" and fitness as an employeein herprogressreport – and justified hisposition bytyping these additional words into the document himself.
Later that year,Young requested time off – likelyfor the holiday season – prompting adifferentsupervisor to draft an official memorandum to the engineer in charge, a positionakin totoday'sNASA center director.He referredto Young's "attitude" in requesting to use her vacation days.
Women not welcome in STEM
While sexism inSTEM has shifted itsforms overtime, genderbased inequitiesstill exist.Women in STEM frequentlyconfront microaggressions, marginalization and hostilework environments,includingunequal pay,lack ofrecognition andadditional serviceexpectations.
Women often lack supportive socialnetworks andencounterother systemicbarriers tocareeradvancement, suchas notbeing recognizedas anauthority figure,or thedoublestandard ofbeingperceived as too aggressive instead of as a leader.
Women of color, women who belongto LGBTQ+communitiesand women whohave oneor moredisabilities face evenmore barriers rootedin theseintersectionalidentities.
Oneof thewaysto combatthese inequities is to call attention to systemic barriers bysharing stories of womenwho persistedin STEM –women like Pearl Young. Originallypublishedon w
Centreby BTC.We respond tocriesand storiesofmanyabused woman and childrenand this donationwillaid usinprovidingthe greatest possible support to these individuals. We provide a 24-hour clinic thathelps womenfleeing abusivesituations andchildrenwho havewitnessed orsufferedabuse. So again, we thank BTC for this donation, especially during this holiday season." Meanwhile, C&WCommunications,the operatorsof BTC,Flow, Flow Business and C&W Business, also reaffirmedits commitmentto gender equality and supporting efforts to combatgender-based violence.
From left, Melanie Gibson, CX Manager for Workforce Management and Vendor Relations (BTC); Sharmaine Knowles, Office Assistant (Bahamas Crisis Center) and Tamara McKenzie, Communications Manager (BTC).
PHOTO: Inge Smidts - Chief Executive Officer of C&W Communications
A beacon of hope and opportunity
ANNMarie Davisof theOffice of the Spouse of the Prime Minister, hailedthe newlyinstalledGrand BahamaChapter oftheInternationalFederation ofBusinessand Professional Women (BPW)as a signal of progress.
“For Grand Bahama specifically, the Businessand Professional Women’s establishment signals hopeandopportunity atatime when this island is poised for growthand transformation,” she said duringher remarks atthe officialinstallationof directorsandofficersof thenew GrandBahama Chapter.
The ceremony was held under the patronage of Mrs Davisat The Pavillion at the Grand Lucayan Resort on December 14.
Mrs Davis pointedout that women will play a pivotal role in driving the innovationand social organisations on GrandBahama as the island continuesits recovery and resurgence.
“Tonight,we celebrateatransformative milestone in a journey of empoweringwomen hereinGrand Bahama andwe especiallyrecognise the visionaryleadership of the newly-elected president,Dr Anastacia Lewis,whose dedicationto this causeis asource ofhope and inspiration, she said.
Mrs Davis commended Dr Lewis forembracing thecallto actionand leading thechapter intowhat she knows will be afuture filled with meaningful impact and growth.
She noted that organisations like BPW arevital not only tothe com-
munitiestheyserve, butina broader mission of uplifting women andaddressing thepersistentchallenges they face.
“Through mentorship,networking andprofessional development, the Business and Professional Women will serve as a catalyst for growth, helping women navigate theircareers, buildingbusinesses and stepping into leadership roles that shape ourcommunities, Mrs Davis said.
Mrs. Davis stressedthat BPW empowers women to speak up, advocate forequality, challengethe status quo and gives women the tools to become greater participants in the workplace and society.
Sheaddedthat theBPWalso helpswomen tobecomearchitects for a better future and can serve as a source of inspiration for young girls and women.
BPW GrandBahama president Lewis revealed that the historic moment was eight months in the making, and that the BPW UK president Joanne Kinsey was on hand to officiate the installation ceremony.
ANN Marie Davis, of the Office of the Spouse of thePrime Minister, attendedthe installationofdirectors andofficers ofthe newlyformed Grand Bahama Chapterof the InternationalFederation ofBusinessand Professional Women at the Grand Lucayan on December 14, 2024. The ceremony was heldunder her patronage.
MARINE FORECAST
Photos: Andrew Miller
Shown
The Silk Walk Experience unveiled
By ALESHA CADET
Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
FORMER Miss Bahamas Universe 2021Chantel O Brian is stepping into a newrole as a filmmaker withthe upcomingrelease of herdocumentary TheSilk Walk Experience.This innovativeprojectblends fashion,storytelling, and empowerment tospotlight Bahamiandesigners andmodels,redefining how Bahamiantalent is perceived both locally and internationally.
In an interview with Tribune Woman, Chantel shared the inspirationbehindthe project: “The Silk Walk Experience ties together three elements. Itstems frommy signature walk,which gainedattention during the Miss Universe competition,highlights theOrangeEconomy byfocusing onBahamian fashion designers,and introduces runway choreography in a way that hasn t been seen here before.
The docu-film promises to showcase the storiesof local designers, delveinto theirjourneys, andreignite a passion for Bahamian
fashion.
The docu-filmkind oftalks about everything in terms of the historic partsof a lotof designers and whatmade themget intoit.
Designers for people that have been in the industry, people like the honorable PiaGlover-Rolle, and just trying to reignite really the passion for fashion,” she said.
Chantel s personaljourney asa model andmentor deeplyinfluenced the project’s direction. “My experiences have taught me to empathize with other creatives and aspiring models, she shared. Hosting castingcalls andtraining sessions for the project gave her an opportunity to empower a new waveof talent. “We wouldhave held a casting call and we would havegotten agreat numberof models. Andhonestly, ifI could have casted just everyone I would have, but unfortunately,I could not. This wasa passion project, first and foremost, alot of it is coming outof pocket,” said Chantel.
The filmalso aimsto empower viewersby presentinganarrative
of resilience and creativity. “I want people to see the brilliance of our designersand beinspired totry something new, she said. Drawing inspiration from Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty shows,Chantel merges fashion, music,and dance ina way that highlights Bahamian artistry.
As with any groundbreaking project, The Silk Walk Experience faced itsshare ofchallenges. The biggest hurdle has been funding. Despite this, Chantel expressed gratitude for the Tourism DevelopmentCouncil andothersponsors who havesupported theproject. Fromrehearsal spacestoproduction support, we’ve had incredible partnerslike T&TMedia anddirectorKerrel Pinder,whosevision helped bring this to life, she said.
The filmalso incorporateselementsof Bahamianculture,from the music tothe craftsmanship of localdesigners. “So, from makeup artist to hairstylist,they all are local.We alsowant toreach aninternational audience sothat they cansee whatis availableliterally rightherewithin ourtalentherein the Bahamas.
Christmas is the time for romance
By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer
cbrennen@tribunemedia.net
Tis theseason to curl upon on your sofa, grabthe beverage and treats of your choice and binge the myriad ofChristmas romance movies that are just a remote click away. Fromroyalty fundinglovewith commoners,to citygirls leavingit allforlove withthebluecollar worker insmall townUSA, orto coupleswho somehowmanageto reconcile thanks toa little holiday mistletoe,Christmas loveisall around us. Watchingthe Hallmarkchannel isahuge partofmy–Christmas routine, I have them on loop as I get my hairdone, domy girlshair,
clean the house, decorate and cook.
I feellike Christmas isjust that time to just put yourself in as happy a place asyou can. I justlove how its the same story over and over again, but yetsomehow you still hold your breath that Brittany and Todd will actually fall in love.” Lannie says thatshe really enjoys the snowy aspect of Christmas movies.
Ihave neveractuallyspent Christmas away from Nassau and there is something so charming about theidea ofa snowycold Christmas somewhere in New England or Colorado, building snowmen,going tothetown Christmas festival. It s just so differentfrom myversionof Christmas. I am single but I really
At its core, The Silk Walk Experience is aboutconfidence and selfbelief. Chantelhopes theproject will particularlyresonate with women and young girls.
“It's important that women know that, you don't need to have a particular aesthetic tobe confident. I think that's really the era we're in right now, where we see a lot of influencers,models, whomeverelse, and wefeel likewe needto fita particular aesthetic inorder to be desired,desirable,or, youknow,to be the girl or whatever have you. Confidence from the core is so important within the sessions that I've had specificallywith my models.Andwe hadlike,wehad somemale modelsaswell, butthe majority are all women,” she said.
The film captures heartfelt moments, including family members witnessing theirloved onestransforminto runwaystars. Parents were invitedto someof the filming, andtheir reactionsto seeingtheir kidswalkconfidently wereincredibly moving, Chantel revealed.
While aMarch 2025premiere date is tentatively set, Chantel is buildingmomentum withbehindthe-scenes content and a soon-tobe-released trailer. She’s also eager for the public to support the project from the beginning.
“Ifyou seetheposts, like,share, and comment. This will help others see the talent we have here in The
feel like if I wasable to wear a cute winter outfit and goto one of them lilChristmastowns Iwoulddefinitelyfindaman. Youseehownone ofthose menugly andthey allso buff.” Megansays thatthe appealof holidaymovies isthatitis neverto late for a second chance.
“No matterwhat youhave done inthe world,thereis someonewho can see the goodin you or forgive you andyou can geta second chance, even if they lie and say they ain’ theprince ofEurope orthey don’twork forthe bigcompany trying to destroy your family s fifty-year-old business.
Bahamas,” she urged. Shebelieves TheSilk WalkExperience isn’t just a film, it’sa movement. As anticipation grows,The Silk WalkExperience promisesto bea milestonefor Bahamianfashion and atestament toChantel O’Brian’s unwavering commitment to empowering others.
“Everybody triesto bandwagon at the last minutebut let s not do that, let’s justsupportfrom thebeginning. Ask questionsbecause we want that engagement and we want people tosee it. Wewant specifically people outside of the country to knowlike talent is herein the Bahamas.Ialso wanttoaddthat it s 7 designers involved in the project. We're going to drop the lineup for the designers a little later as well,” said Chantel. A fulllist ofsponsors include names like:Miller Designs, T Bastian Photography, Jerrad Cartwright (RAD Produtions), Soralace Productions, MikeyJ Santos, Captured, CareyFabrics, Commonwealth Fabrics, Nassau Cruiseport, Zamar Productions, Superior Productions, The Movi Group, The Gardenof EdenNursery, TheCurrent atBahaMar, Ecchoat BahaMar, The NationalArt Gallery, Manje Da GriyoShack, Driftwood Styling, Center Stage Enterprise, Jline Fitness, Phylicia Ellis, Javano Stubbs, Navado Dawkins, Nyisha Tilus, and Michelle Louidor.
And Nayla says that the appeal is simply that everyone loves the holidaysand lovesloveand onceyou addthat combinationtogether, magic happens. “The otherthing isthat thereis always some sort of big gesture that just meltsmy heart andit just makes you believe in happily ever after.” Ameliasaysshe wouldloveto see a Bahamianinspired Hallmark movie. Something like Christmas at the Fry or Love in the Shack, A Joneser for the Holidays,” the possibilities are endless, she joked.
