05152024 NEWS AND SPORT

FOREST FIRE HITS CORAL HARBOUR

A MASSIVE forest fire erupted in the Coral Habour community yesterday.

The blaze further strained firefighting resources, which have been used to battle fires in Abaco and in eastern New Providence in recent weeks - while sparking fears among fishermen concerned about their supplies. Around noon yesterday, reports emerged of a fire on the western and eastern forestry of the Coral Habour Road. With low visibility in the area, officials closed the road.

Chief Superintendent of SEE PAGE TWO

Bahamas Independence signatory and former MP Loftus Roker dead at 88

By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net

LOFTUS Roker, an Acklins native whose tough approach to illegal immigration and drug trafficking made him a defining political figure in his era, died yesterday at 88. Mr Roker was one of the last surviving signatories of the independence agreement, which was signed on December 20, 1972, during

a Constitutional Conference in London.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said yesterday: “From a young age, Loftus Roker was deeply moved by the injustices he witnessed, especially against people of colour. This profound sense of fairness and desire for change led him to run for public office in 1956, even though he was too young to vote

SEE PAGE FIVE

ROLLE

THE family of a man police killed in 2018 is concerned over the length of time police are taking to announce or act on recommendations from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions concerning the officers who killed him.

SEE PAGE THREE

A BUSH fire burns along both sides of Coral Harbour Rd yesterday. Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Forest fire hits Coral Harbour

Police Chrislyn Skippings said the fire posed no threat to nearby residents, adding that forest fires of this magnitude occur every three to four years.

“We have closed the road because visibility is extremely poor in this area – it’s actually at zero right now,” she said.

“It’s virtually impossible to see if you are coming into this area, so we have closed the entrance here at Coral Harbour. We have also closed the entrance

on the other side by the Lynden Pindling International Airport, and those areas will remain closed until this fire has actually subsided.”

“We don’t want any injuries happening to anyone, whether it be in their vehicle or whether from any health issues that may arise as a result of the smoke.”

Keith Carroll, president of the National Fishing Association, said crawfish traps and boats for fishermen within the community are in danger, as with their storage site east of the fire.

He said the association is optimistic but afraid of the end result.

Cameron Turnquest, co-owner of Turnquest Seafood, expressed concerns.

“We have been in the business since the year 2018,” he said. “We are basically just getting our feet on the ground so we are hoping that basically everything remains safe because if this were to happen, we basically would be wiped out of business, so this is a very serious situation.”

Estimating the value

of materials, he said “a rough number is anywhere between 750k to 1m between all of the boats and gear”.

“Although the catch was all right this season, we didn’t have a great price, so we are hoping for a better season this year so that we can actually recuperate,” he said. “This was only a survival season to stay in the business, it wasn’t a season where you could make a good turnover. So coming out of just a survival season and encountering something

like this is a nightmare in all honestly.”

Given the thickness of the smoke, CSP Skippings appealed to residents who suffer medical challenges to relocate until the matter is resolved.

The fumes lighted the sky up red, and it appeared unlikely to wane quickly.

Firefighters took the media on a tour of the fire where a Bahamas Power and Light utility pole had exploded into flames.

BPL communication manager Arnette Ingraham said the fire impacted

high-voltage lines in the area.

She said customers in portions of Carmichael Road and Coral Harbour lost service.

“Our teams responded and were able to reroute supply to these customers through a different feed,” she said. “Once it is safe, our teams will repair the high-voltage lines.”

As of 8pm yesterday, she said the majority of customers in the area’s power had been restored, adding that repairs to the lines will be necessary.

A BUSH fire burns along both sides of Coral Harbour Rd yesterday. Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

‘Vexatious litigation’ delayed rescue of starving dolphins

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS

Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister

Jomo Campbell defended government’s efforts to rescue five dolphins from Blackbeard’s Cay.

The ministry was alerted to the situation on April 9 and rescued the animals last Friday.

He said the delay in rescuing the dolphins resulted from “vexatious litigation” and other logistical matters.

“We don’t have the luxury of responding and reacting out of emotion,” he said during a press conference yesterday.

“There had to be strategic steps and you know, some may have thought that those steps may have been too slow, but I can guarantee you we have five Atlantic bottlenose dolphins so we’re quite pleased that we took the time to ensure they’re safe.”

The government helped rescue the animals last week after it was revealed that eight dolphins had died at the facility in recent years and the remaining five were at risk of suffering a similar fate.

Action to save the five surviving dolphins ––Fiona, Harry, Diamond, Justice and Pigeon ––appeared to hasten only after The Bahamas was subjected to damaging media coverage over the matter.

“On April 9, 2024, Ms Sam Duncombe, president of reEarth, met with me and ministry officials and informed of this matter,” Mr Campbell said.

“A site investigation was requested and conducted ten days later on 19 April, 2024, by the Department of Marine Resources. The results of that investigation were under active review, culminating in the government officially requesting assistance from Atlantis on May 8, 2024.”

Pressed on the onemonth delay, Mr Campbell

said given history of the matter, which involves continuous legal dispute, the ministry was focused on taking a holistic approach.

“You have to look at the tide, you have to look at the time of day, you have to look at the conditions the dolphins were in,” he said.

“People tend to think that dolphins are like a bottle of water where you can just pick them up and move them from point A to point B, but as I indicated earlier, these are mammals, they think and act just like us, they have their own minds and all of that had to be taken into consideration. Nobody knew what they would go into when they got there.

“I’m quite certain that we can simply go there with a speedboat and some sheets and maybe some nets and just move them that same day, but who knows if they would have all been alive and improving as they are now.”

Mr Campbell reported that the mammals are currently being housed at Atlantis Animal Care Facility under a 30-day quarantine process. He could not say where they were expected to go.

He said their blood work produced normal results but they are underweight, though confidence is high that their weight will increase.

Mr Campbell said he has presented to Cabinet an amended version of the Veterinarian Medical Act, which has not been updated since 1966.

“Once the Department of Law Reform and the Office of the Attorney General is completed with its finishing touches, we look forward with great pride to tabling that in the House of Assembly,” he said.

“So, it’s a mammoth task, but it is a strategic task that this ministry has been undertaking to move all aspects of the ministry towards a more modern platform.”

FAMILY WAITS FOR ACTION ON POLICE-INVOLVED KILLING

from page one

A Coroner’s Court jury ruled last year that Deangelo Evans’ police-involved killing in 2018 was a homicide by manslaughter.

In April, the DPP’s office sent recommendations on whether to charge the officers in the case –– Corporal Wright and Inspector Wilson –– with a crime. However, the commissioner has yet to reveal the recommendation and has consistently told reporters to “stand by”.

Yesterday, he told The Tribune: “I’m presently off the island attending a conference for the week. Please stand by.”

Evans’ mother, Beverley Rolle, said the family is tired of waiting.

On the 27 of this month, my child will be dead for six years,” she said.

“Everybody is upset about it right now. My child get murdered but just the other day, there was a situation with the two officers. They quickly charged them.”

“They ain’t do nothing with the officers in my child’s case, but some officers involved with this money mix up, they deal with that situation, so murder just does go down in the drain just like that or something? Once your child life get taken away, that’s it then?”

The mother said she raised her concern to police officials over the matter last month when they conducted a walkabout in the community. However, she said officials told her “it wasn’t the place and time for it”.

“He said he would get back to me, and we would have a meeting or something because they was doing a walkabout, but that was the end of that,” she said. “They ain’t call me back since then or nothing.”

She called the police’s silence on the findings a “slap in the face” to the family.

Evans was killed on Sandy Lane in Mason’s Addition on May 27, 2018.

Officers were responding to an alleged armed robbery suspect. While the officers maintained that Evans was armed, several eyewitnesses said he was not.

Coroner’s Court inquests do not determine criminal liability. By convention, the police always follow the recommendation of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. In addition to Evans, the DPP’s office also sent recommendations concerning the killings of Shanton Forbes and Dino Bain.

Three officers shot Forbes on March 25, 2018, in Yellow Elder. The man later died at the Princess Margaret Hospital.

AGRICULTURE AND MARINE RESOURCES MINISTER JOMO CAMPBELL

VOLUNTEERS worked to resuce the five remaining dolphins at Blackbeard’s Cay on Friday.

Evan Fox ‘suffered a selfinflicted wound’, say police

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

POLICE said Evan Fox, a man who was reported missing last month before he was found dead near his truck in bushes of Frank Watson Boulevard, committed suicide.

Chief Superintendent of Police Chrislyn Skippings said yesterday that a pathologist determined Fox suffered a self-inflicted wound and police have since closed the matter. She declined to provide further details but said a shotgun was found at the scene.

“I’m not gonna get specific, but it was determined that he did take his life based on the evidence that was in the post-mortem from the pathologist,”

she said. Fox’s decomposed body was found in April in bushes some three miles off Frank Watson Boulevard. He was last seen around 9am on April 26, leaving his Winton Meadows residence in a blue polo shirt, blue jeans and white tennis.

Officers found the decomposing body lying outside of the truck.

Last year, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander said he was alarmed by the number of attempted suicides and wanted more officers to become certified in mental health management.

Police revealed earlier this year that suicides decreased by 25 per cent in 2023 compared to 2022, but attempted suicides increased by a remarkable

86 per cent.

Before Fox’s body was found, his family was hopeful he would be found.

His mother, Michelle Green, said: “He was in chat groups with family and friends and would communicate all day normally. By 7pm on Friday, when everybody realised that nobody had heard from him since 9am, that’s when the alarm went out because it was so out of character.

“That’s when everyone started calling each other, like have you heard from him, have you heard from him, and everybody realised that no one had heard from him and his phone wasn’t being answered and messages weren’t going through and that’s why the alarm was raised so early.”

Skippings: ‘Bit too early’ to know if foul play involved in suspected Hamilton suicide

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

POLICE Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings said it is a “bit too early” to determine if foul play is suspected in the death of Destiny Hamilton, the 27-year-old found dead with a lacerated wrist.

Police believe the death was a suicide, but the relatives of Hamilton are not convinced.

Hamilton was found in a bathroom in Guana Cay, Abaco, around 8.30am last Thursday.

Bennae Beneby-Pinder, 30, insisted on Sunday that her cousin would not kill herself. She said Hamilton resided in the United States and was visiting Abaco with her husband and a friend.

Asked about possible foul play, CSP Skippings

said: “We’re still gonna wait on the pathologist to do some work. We’re going to rely on that scientific evidence to assist us in our investigations and based on what she gives

us, then it will lead us in the direction that we are to go as an organisation.

“You know, we don’t investigate into social media. They can say what they want to say, but, as

a department, we rely on facts.” Hamilton had more than 20,000 followers on Instagram and made posts about her lifestyle, luxury, and travel.

FNM Senator says the country experiencing a ‘deepening mental health crisis’ as suicides rise

A SENATOR says the country is experiencing “a deepening mental health crisis” amid a rise in suicides and attempted suicides.

FNM Senator Maxine Seymour, the Shadow Minister for Social Services, spoke out after two more reported attempted suicides yesterday. She said: “Behind each of these incidents is a person facing deep personal struggles, often feeling alone and without options. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we must confront this issue head-on, ensuring that support is not only available but reaches those who need it most.” She called for increased funding to mental health services, better access to psychiatric care and educating people to tackle the stigma surrounding mental

health.

She said: “Supporting someone in your life who is dealing with depression is about just being there, about listening more than talking, offering a shoulder to lean on, and not rushing them through their feelings.

“We have to gently encourage persons to get professional help, while doing little things like sending text messages or meeting up for a beverage to remind them they are supported and loved.”

Pedestrians intervene to stop woman jumping from the bridge

By KEILE CAMPBELL kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

A WOMAN tried to jump from the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge while holding her two-year-old daughter yesterday before pedestrians intervened to stop her before police arrived.

The incident was one of two attempted suicides reported yesterday.

The 32-year-old woman and her child were taken to the hospital for medical attention and evaluation.

The incident around 1pm yesterday comes three months after a woman jumped to her death from the bridge. Occupants of a nearby vessel retrieved her body from the water. Relatives later revealed that

NOTICE

the woman struggled with depression and had been kept at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre for a time.

Police also said a 15-year-old male had multiple self-inflicted lacerations on his body from a sharp instrument yesterday and was taken to the hospital by EMS personnel.

According to police statistics last month, though suicides decreased by 25 percent in 2023 compared to 2022, attempted suicides increased by 86 percent.

Six people committed suicide in 2023 compared to eight people in 2022, with five of last year’s suicide victims being men.

Eighty people attempted suicide last year compared to 43 in 2022, with most attempts being women.

NOTICE is hereby given that DELROY DENNES PATTERSON of #16 Hibiscus Close, 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 7th day of May 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

ment yesterday.

NOTICE is hereby given that MARCIA ANGELLA WEBB of #1 Hillside Estates, P.O. Box N-8497, Nassau, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for registration/ naturalization as a citizen of

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that RICKY BALRAM SEWLANI of #706 One Ecean, Paradise Island, 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 7th day of May 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

EVAN FOX

DESTINY HAMILTON

FNM Senator Maxine Seymour

CHIEF Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings, flanked by senior members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), speaks to reporters during a press conference at the Criminal Investigations Depart-

Photo: Dante Carrer/ Tribune Staff

Bahamas Independence

signatory and former MP

Loftus Roker dead at 88

or stand as a candidate legally. This early attempt to enter politics, thwarted by his age, underscored his fearless resolve and determination to seek political solutions to societal challenges, setting the stage for his future career as a reform-minded leader.

“Loftus Roker was a distinguished statesman and an advocate for justice and security. His contributions during critical periods of our history were pivotal, driven by his passion for our nation’s prosperity and a deeply held belief in the Bahamian spirit. His leadership as Minister of National Security and Immigration was marked by significant and transformative policies that have shaped the course of our nation.”

Mr Roker studied at a public school in Pompey Bay and the Western Senior High School in New Providence. He later pursued a law degree at the University of London and Middle Temple. He was called to the Bar in 1962.

He was selected by the Progressive Liberal Party to run for Parliament in 1956. However, at 20, he was too young to contest the election. He became the MP for Nichols Town and Berry Islands in 1968. He was appointed minister of works and utilities in January 1976. In 1985, he was appointed minister of national security. The Acklins Central High School was renamed in his honour last year.

In the 1980s, at the height of the drug era, he encouraged letting the United

States construct a Coast Guard docking base and landing strip in the country to fight drug trafficking.

“I’ve said over and over that what we need is a blockade of the entire Bahamas chain,” he reportedly said. “We need a joint US, Bahamas and British blockade that will stop them by land, sea and air.”

He encouraged the Bahamian policy of sending unauthorised immigrants back to Haiti, overseeing a period of increased raids that left many in the Haitian community fearful.

“I warned all illegal aliens when I came to power, I said leave The Bahamas,” he reportedly said. Mr Roker did not mince words about the country’s state or successive administrations’ performance after leaving frontline politics. He repeatedly said administrations weren’t doing enough on immigration issues.

In an interview with The Nassau Guardian in 2012, he said: “The Bahamas isn’t where I expected it to be in ‘72 when we signed the document, but I say the fault is all our fault.”

“Beyond his public service, Mr Roker was a cherished family man and a wise counsel to many,” Mr Davis said yesterday. “His wisdom, integrity, and courage were his hallmarks, touching everyone who knew him.”

“Loftus Roker’s memory will continue to inspire us all, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on a nation’s destiny.”

PLP chairman Fred

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that DANIELLE SAWYERS of Bahamas Boulevard, New Providence, The 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 whyregistration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 14th day of May, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

Mitchell spoke of the inspiration of Roker to his political career.

“I can not stress how much Loftus Roker’s life and times made an impression on me.”

He added that “there is no doubt in my mind that the terms architect of the nation, founding father, all apply to him. The Bahamas has lost a great man and a great mind.”

He said, “In the latter years of his life, he was an elder statesman, a voice of patriotic Bahamian clarity. The Progressive Liberal Party is proud that he helped to lay a solid foundation for our party. On behalf of our Leader the Hon Philip Davis, our entire parliamentary team, officers and members, I express our condolences to his family.”

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that CADOSH NERACE GUERRIER of P.O. Box N-9783, #4 Faith Avenue North, New Providence, The 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 whyregistration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 14th day of May, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that LUCIA PATTERSON of Elizabeth Estate, 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

NOTICE is hereby given that LUCIANA PETIT-HOMME of Cowpen Road , 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

NOTICE is hereby given that DUQUESNE VASY of Bacardi Road, Nassau, The 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 14th day of May, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

The 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 14th day of May, 2024 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NATIONAL Security Minister Loftus Roker calls on parliament to forget political affiliation and vote in unity for the proposed drug bill in the House of Assembly on November 5, 1986.

RECENT photo of Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and A Loftus Roker

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Publisher/Editor 1903-1914

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Publisher/Editor 1919-1972

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

Publisher/Editor 1972-

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Heartbreaking rise in suicides and attempts

A SERIES of stories about suspected suicides have featured in The Tribune recently – and each is genuinely heartbreaking.

In today’s edition, there is a story of a 15-year-old who police say had self-inflicted lacerations, and another incident where a woman reportedly attempted to jump from the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge with her two-year-old daughter but was thankfully stopped. Pedestrians intervened and the woman was then taken to the hospital for evaluation after police arrived.

We do not know the individual situations of those in these instances, nor should we judge or be quick to presume.

Suicide seems to be far less of a rarity than it was in The Bahamas. Even as little as a decade ago, any such instance was greeted with such public shock that it was a major occurrence in the news.

That seems to have changed – though our attitudes towards mental health and social support do not perhaps seem to have changed quickly enough to give those people in need the help to steer them away from such a path.

There have, of course, been religious arguments about whether or not suicide is a sin – though that seems to be arguing after the fact rather than preventing it from taking place.

We also should not too easily dismiss the after-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which sent an economic earthquake through our nation, but also cut people off, one from another, in ways that some have been unable to re-establish.

Then there are those who see no way out. We must strive to give one another that way out, that support that is needed.

There are helplines – the Bahamas Crisis Centre operates a 24/7 helpline on 328-0922, for example.

But it is not just down to those experiencing the crisis to reach out, we should be watching for those around us who are hurting, and reaching out to them too.

This is not about any individual case, and there should never be any attempt to shame – but rather this is about finding ways to stop things reaching that desperation point in the first place, and

about offering an alternative when there seems nothing more that can be done.

The Tribune will be looking further into the resources available, the ways in which people can be helped – and how each of us can make a difference.

Remembering A Loftus Roker

THE passing of Loftus Roker at the age of 88 marks the passing of another of the signatories of the Independence agreement. During the nation’s 50th anniversary celebrations last year, such moments were honoured – and there was a keen awareness that we have fewer and fewer who remember such historic moments from their own lifetimes.

Mr Roker was a tough-talking individual, but also tough acting. His legacy is most often linked with his actions in clamping down on immigration, something he was vocal about in the years after his service too.

He was also forthright on tackling drug trafficking, even during the drug years that scarred The Bahamas even through to today.

Depending on your viewpoint on issues such as immigration, human rights, and so on, opinions of Mr Roker’s legacy will vary.

But one thing is clear. These issues affect The Bahamas today – and the tough talking often goes on, even though the situation continues to perpetuate. Tough talk only goes so far.

We still routinely see cases of massive drug hauls, the government even went so far as to join a case against the US to take on gun smuggling, and we seem no nearer to resolving issues of immigration even as nearby Haiti goes through yet another political and economic crisis.

Mr Roker himself said the nation was not where he expected it to be but “the fault is all our fault”.

We are still in the process of fixing these things – and sometimes doing so seems ever further away.

Remove VAT from all medical

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THERE has to be an

SOS going out to the people who have medical health insurance and those who have requirement for expensive medication... whilst home insurance no VAT is imposed regrettably far more essential health you pay on insurance cover and on every medicineservice etc - thought VAT could only be charged once?

Right now finance are

drafting annual budget... with urgency there must be consideration for the removal totally of VAT on medicines - medical services - treatments, including scans, X-rays, tests and totally off health insurance. When the only private hospital discontinued paying discounts to health insurance providers they all increased their premiums... already high.

Yes, you must have revenue... so an idea or two... increase the Stamp

PICTURE

Pintard is not young generation

EDITOR, The Tribune

TWO weeks prior, the FNM and the nation at large witnessed two individuals whom I hold in high regard step up to vie for the position of leading our party into the upcoming general election. The former Prime Minister, Dr Hubert Minnis, whom I greatly admire, officially announced his intention to seek another term. Michael Pintard, who succeeded Dr Minnis, as leader, has also made it known that he is seeking re-election. Dr Minnis, as leader, has also made it known that he is seeking re-election.

Dr Minnis, as I have been informed, advised his supporters not to attend the nomination day to avoid potential heated debates on Mackey Street between Pintard supporters, which could lead to negative media coverage and unjust blame placed on him.

of integrity and willingness to deceive not just the youth of our party but also an entire nation for personal gain, which is both disappointing and concerning. So, this view of making Dr Minnis sound old and should just go into the political sunset is not just laughable but a clear case of “the pot calling the kettle black” and since that is the case, then Mr Pintard and others should follow their request and allow members who are in their 40’s and below to take over this party and represent the very same people the wish to lead.

tax on sale of properties over a certain level, high-priced properties. Increase duty on basically unnecessary luxury goods the buyers of which can afford without sneezing. So Minister of Finance, let more afford health insurance... get remedial and active medical care... medications requirements, life saving drugs are horribly expensive.

PAULA MINNS Nassau, May 8, 2024.

There is a narrative being pushed by Pintard and his team, claiming that Michael Clifton Pintard “is a young man and he represents the next generation”. However, as a member for 40 years, I must say that this assertion is far from the truth. Pintard may have been considered young when he first ran as a candidate in 1997 at the age of 33, but the Pintard of 2024, who will be 60 years old, be classified as young. In reality, Pintard belongs to the baby boomer generation. Therefore, when individuals like former Deputy Prime Ministers Brent Symonette, Peter Turnquest, former cabinet ministers Darren Henfield, and Duane Sands, all esteemed members of the baby boomers club, claiming that Pintard is young and represent the youth, I am left puzzled.

The deliberate attempt to distance themselves from Minnis and fabricate false narratives indicates a lack

I can comprehend the reasoning behind their statement. This is because Dr Minnis has a proven history of actively seeking out fresh, young, talented, and ambitious individuals to work alongside him in various capacities such as the cabinet, senate, house of assembly, boards, and diplomatic posts. Unlike Ingraham, Minnis has made a commendable effort to include people from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that the parliament truly reflects the diversity of our nation. Previously, individuals from humble backgrounds had limited opportunities, which created the perception that the FNM only catered to the elite. Speaking of the elite, it is worth noting the prominent endorsements received by Pintard. It doesn’t take a college graduate to recognise the underlying dynamics at play here. It appears that Pintard has struck a deal, and if he succeeds in his bid, there will be a bill to repay.

Based on my understanding from reliable sources,

Dr Minnis has outlined his plans to propel the FNM

forward by recognising and considering younger individuals within the party who possess qualities such as patience, leadership, sound judgment, and a strong mind to take on prominent roles. It is encouraging to hear that Minnis intends to prioritise internal talent, with 70-80 percent of future standard bearers coming from within the party. This shift in approach could potentially revolutionise the candidate selection process, moving away from the traditional practice of seeking external candidates. I commend Minnis for his commitment to promoting deserving individuals from within the party ranks. While I welcome new members to join our party, I firmly believe that they should not bypass those who have proven themselves, as these individuals represent the core of our party. I must also mention that I was impressed by Dr Minnis’ interview with Jerome Sawyer, where he candidly explained the rationale behind certain decisions, even if they were not popular, in the best interest of the Bahamian people. His willingness to acknowledge mistakes and strive for improvement demonstrates his humility and dedication to serving the nation. It is important to remember that he is only human, and we should not hold him to unrealistic standards. Therefore, I urge the editor and fellow FNMs to recognise that Pintard belongs to the baby boomer generation, not the millennial generation. It appears that Pintard’s actions indicate a return to the old guard occupying key decision-making positions, potentially sidelining deserving individuals.

MACKEY FIRE Nassau, May 12, 2024.

A BORDER collie waits to take photos at the 148th Westminster Kennel Club Dog show yesterday at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.

Photo: Julia Nikhinson/AP

Two ‘sick slips’ delays Gibson trial

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

A SUPREME Court judge adjourned the trial of Adrian Gibson and others yesterday after the Long Island MP failed to appear in court for medical reasons.

Mr Gibson is on trial accused of bribery and money laundering offences concerning his tenure as Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) executive chairman under the Minnis administration.

He was due to appear before Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson yesterday for the continued cross-examination of his cousin, Rashae Gibson, who testified last week about her involvement in the case.

When asked why Mr Gibson was not present during yesterday’s proceedings, Damian Gomez, KC, the lawyer for Mr Gibson, said he submitted his client’s

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A FIVE-PERSON jury was empanelled yesterday as the inquest into the 2017 police-involved killing of 21-year-old Aliko Collins in Pinewood Gardens began.

Acting Coroner Kara Turnquest-Deveaux presided as the jury was selected to hear testimony in the inquiry. Now-retired

sick slips to the court’s clerk.

The judge confirmed receiving two sick slips – one from an eye doctor and another from Dr Duane Sands – giving him a week off.

“In relation to both of these, it’s not possible for us to continue via Zoom. Is that correct?” Justice Grant-Thompson asked.

Mr Gomez responded that he believed so.

Mr Gibson is charged with Mr Elwood Donaldson, Jr, former WSC’s general manager, Joan Knowles, Peaches Farquharson and Jerome Missick.

Mr Gomez KC, Murrio Ducille KC, Ian Cargill, Bryan Bastian, Ryan Eve, Raphael Moxey, represent the defendants.

Meanwhile, the Crown’s lawyers include acting Director of Public Prosecutions Cordell Frazier, Cashena Thompson, Karine MacVean and Rashied Edgecombe.

Superintendent Basil Collie was allegedly accosted by an armed Collins on Bamboo Blvd in the early morning hours of February 8, 2017, resulting in the officer fatally shooting the deceased.

This will be the seventh police-involved killing inquest this year.

Last week, jurors returned a finding of justifiable homicide for the officers involved in the fatal shooting of David Nicholls in Fox Hill on

November 23, 2017.

Four of the six completed inquests this year have returned a finding of justifiable homicide, with the remaining two returning findings of homicide by manslaughter. Coroner’s inquests do not determine criminal liability.

K Melvin Munroe represents Superintendent Collie.

Angelo Whitfield will marshal the evidence when testimony begins today.

JOB VACANCIES The

Tribune

is seeking new members of staff to add to its team.

We are seeking candidates to fll three roles:

Website Manager/Page

Designer

The successful candidate will be an experienced journalist with an ability to edit stories, design news pages using Indesign and similar software and manage a dynamic website and associated social media. The role requires being able to help break news quickly and ensure regular updates around the clock to the www.tribune242.com website, as well as live coverage when appropriate and liaising with both the reporting team and the publisher.

It will also involve designing graphics suitable for various platforms, including the website, in-paper and for various social media outlets. Experience with HTML and other website skills are a must, as well as familiarity with handling content management systems.

The role also involves page design to support The Tribune’s design team. It is a senior journalist role requiring notable experience in the feld.

Photographer

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

THE teen killed on a basketball court over the weekend had a running feud with one of the suspects in his murder, Chief Superintendent of Police Chrislyn Skippings said yesterday.

She said the incident involved a “simple assault” that was never reported to the police or parents, adding “this situation could have been prevented” if the conflict had been reported.

Two teens were killed in separate murders over the weekend and police believe the killings are connected.

Police were alerted to the first incident through Shotspotter around 10.30pm on Friday evening on Quintine Alley.

CSP Skippings said: “Initially, the incident started at the basketball court on a school on Wulff Road where four males, two

adults and two juveniles, were on the basketball court when they were approached by three males, all of whom were teenagers. They wore hooded jackets. A confrontation occurred.

“The four males, the two adults, and the two juveniles walked off. They were pursued by the three males.

One of the males produced a weapon and fired a gunshot, which resulted in the 18-year-old being shot. He was taken to the hospital where he succumbed.”

CSP Skippings said that the feud between a suspect and one of the men on the basketball court occurred in high school and spilled over into the local community.

Later, an associate of the deceased travelled to Thrushes Lane and killed a 15-year-old who had been on the basketball court, police said. An 18-year-old is in custody in connection with the 15-year-old’s murder, and two juveniles, a 15-year-old

and a 16-year-old, are in custody in relation to the basketball court murder.

CSP Skippings said police have the matter “under control” and do not foresee further retaliation.

The press liaison implored parents to know who their children’s friends are.

“If for some reason you see friends of your children not coming around or there’s something negative being said, as a department, we want you to come in and sit down and have a conversation with us,” she said. “We have to try to resolve these conflicts that are going on that our young people seem unable to resolve among themselves.

“We see 15 and 16-yearolds with firearms in their hand; something is wrong with that. Something is definitely wrong with that and the persons who ever place weapons in their hands, we’re gonna come for you.”

We are seeking a photographer to join our staff, covering news, sport, business, features and more. The role requires enthusiasm and accuracy as well as an eye for the best photograph and the determination to capture it on camera.

The successful candidate will have familiarity with photo editing software such as Photoshop or similar, and will have their own transport and camera. Your duties will include coverage of local and international fgures, and capturing the daily events for both online and in the pages of The Tribune.

Business Reporter

The Tribune is also seeking a business reporter. Enthusiasm for business is a must, and previous writing experience or journalism training would be an asset. An interest in environmental subjects would also be a positive as the newspaper continues to expand its coverage.

Applicants for any of the above roles should apply with a resume and any examples of work to Managing Editor Stephen Hunt at shunt@ tribunemedia.net

Send your application to The Tribune, P.O. Box N-3207, Nassau, The Bahamas Deadline for all applications is May 20, 2024.

DAMIAN GOMEZ, KC and his client Adrian Gibson leaving court in February.

Photo: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Paying it forward and creating lasting smiles

DR Welmilya Francis is living proof of how powerful the impressions are that we make on very young children. She was just five years old when she made her first visit to the dentist. For some children, this can be a harrowing experience. Instead, she was met by a caring woman with a passion for her calling, who made her feel comfortable during her first time in the dentist’s chair.

Dr Veronica McIver impressed Welmilya so much; she was like a mirror into that little girl’s future.

“I was blown away by her as a young, beautiful woman of colour, who was so passionate about her work,” Welmilya said.

“She was young and seemed to enjoy what she was doing. Her interaction with me as a patient and with her assistants was something that I thought I could connect to. My medical doctor was an older white man. So I naturally saw myself in her. The more I went to my dental visits, the more I fell in love with what I saw and I realised that this was the type of environment I wanted to be a part of.” It didn’t stop there.

Welmilya would visit Dr McIver often, even on the weekends when she was in office. Welmilya’s mother approached Dr McIver when her daughter was in junior high school. She asked the thriving dentist if her daughter could become her understudy. Thus began a firm and steady path to dentistry - a career in which Welmilya continues to reach new heights in today. She worked with Dr McIver over a series of summers, each year cementing her life calling more and more.

Welmilya couldn’t fail with a mother like hers.

Grace Darling Francis was a loving and devoted mother to her four daughters. She and her husband, retired Chief Supt of Police Wellington Francis, gave their daughters a loving home and an environment where each of them could thrive. Their maternal and paternal family lines were from Acklins and San Salvador islands respectively. The girls revered and cherished their childhood years

Face to Face

By FELICITY DARVILLE

on Darlings Lane off Wulff Road at their grandmother’s house, their mother’s family homestead.

With a good upbringing and supportive parents, the Francis girls were free to explore their limitless potential.

“When we were children, we all knew we were going to go to college,” Welmilya recalls.

“Although we may not have known the ‘what’ and ‘where’ or even the ‘how’, we all knew that ‘not going to college’ was never an option. My mom was the driving force. She pushed her daughters and instilled that a college education was priceless; no one could ever take that away. She made us believe we could achieve anything. There was never really a ‘no’ when it came to opportunities and experiences that would help us grow and advance. The financial component was the afterthought.

“My mom was the driving force behind my dream becoming a reality. She held me accountable to my dream and with many sacrifices, she and my dad made it happen.”

When Welmilya was in high school, she had the best guidance counsellor she could ever ask for - her own big sister.

“I was blessed to have one of the nation’s best college and career coaches, Dr Monique Hinsey as my guidance counselor in high school,” she said.

“I think that sealed the deal in everything for me. She was the one who navigated my college admissions and scholarship search process, ensuring my college was the right fit for me. I learned about selfactualisation and was able to put things in perspective to prepare for my college journey. Having my sister as my guidance counsellor, supportive parents, and a

family that were my biggest cheerleaders, helped to propel me in the direction toward my dreams.”

Welmilya graduated from Kingsway Academy. After high school, she received a scholarship to attend Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. She began as a biology major with a focus on advancing to dental school. She credits her college advisor with helping to pave the path to her career of choice. The step-by-step pathway made it easier for her to transition into dental school.

During the summer of her second year at Fisk, Welmilya did a pre-baccalaureate programme at Meharry Dental School that was really for juniors. Her striving spirit and laser focus caught the attention of administrators, and Welmilya was allowed to enter the programme as a sophomore.

This opportunity prepared her for the Dental Admissions Test (DAT), entrance interviews, and the admissions essays for dental school. Meharry had a Big Brother/Sister Mentoring Programme. Through this programme, Welmilya received the mentoring she needed to take her dream to the next level. They provided her with books to read and academic guidance to assist her in the transition to dental school.

Welmilya took the DAT, applied to dental school, and was accepted at Meharry Dental School as well as Howard Dental School. Since she was already in Nashville, Tennassee, and Meharry was just steps away from Fisk University, she chose to study at Meharry.

Once she completed dental school, Welmilya came back home to New Providence, where she had the opportunity to work with and be mentored by

several prominent dentists. Once again, Dr McIver played a role in her development, along with dentists such as Doctors Annet Warren, Sparkman Ferguson, Ricardo Crawford, Kendall Major, and Joyous Pickstock. They were all instrumental and significant in helping to shape and guide her on her path to greatness.

Welmilya’s mother, her biggest cheerleader, was once again the driving force in her life that she has always been. This time, she planted seeds of confidence in her daughter, encouraging her as she sought to open her own dental practice.

She shared her vision: “After working for several years, I began to envision a practice in which I could create a dental team of leaders and rock stars, allowing the doctors to do what they do in an environment filled with fun and excitement while making patients feel like they were the top priority when they walked through the door.”

“I felt like Bahamians should be allowed to experience exceptional healthcare and feel that they are a priority from the moment they walk through the doors because they deserve it... and I wanted them to feel special,” she added.

On May 1, 2017, Comfort Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry was launched. Dr Welmilya Francis gave herself a personal mission to create a positive job culture based on training, coaching, and mentorship so that these professionals could empower their patients with their best smiles.

Naturally, Dr Francis wanted other young people to see the light that shone in her as she had evolved from the curious and driven little Welmilya to the professional making major moves and touching lives in the process.

“I think my experience with Dr McIver became the motivation behind Comfort Smiles’ Job Shadowing

Programme,” she said. “Dr McIver would let me do as much as I could at that time, working beside her in her procedures. She would take time to speak with me, take me to lunch, and let me know what it was like being a dentist and what a dentist could looked like. She shared her professional journey with me and was transparent about how rewarding it is to serve patients from all walks of life as well as having the benefit of a very comfortable lifestyle. That sparked my interest and I knew I was going to be in dentistry.”

There are various aspects of the dental field that would yield a career that gives fulfillment and flexibility, Dr Francis advises young people interested in the field.

Options include: dental assistant; dental lab technician; dental hygienist; dental technology specialist; dental administration; dental education; and finally dentistry, leaving room for specialised areas in the field. Perhaps the greatest reward, she said, is being a catalyst for oral health and helping patients realise their priorities while helping to perfect their smile.

As Comfort Smiles celebrates its seventh anniversary this month, Dr Francis reflects on an amazing journey: “My life has come full circle. While the journey to owning my practice has not come without hardships and disappointments, I have chosen to live a reflective life remembering the people who assisted me along the way by opening doors and extending fragments of grace and favour. I was raised in a home where my parents and siblings were always serving or pouring into others. My parents were humanitarians in their rites. This helped to shape my commitment to community and service.”

“It is for this reason that

I practice in the ‘pay-it-forward’ mode by mentoring others who share an interest in oral health professions. I would like to see the field better than when I met it. So embedded in my practice policy is the promotion of oral health education and care, career advising, and community outreach. I am passionate about all genres of the arts so it is an easy fit for me to contribute to. I have also given to numerous charitable organizations over the years, but I think my most valuable contributions have been in mentoring and creating a space for the next generation of oral health professionals to grow and become the best in their craft.”

“I have mentees who have been interning Comfort Smiles for years,” she continued.

“Some are currently in college and can be seen in the practice during their summer and Christmas breaks. Others are still in high school and are in our practice quite regularly on the weekends. I am paying it forward and can only hope that those that are coming behind me, would remember my efforts to make the industry better when they officially enter the field.”

It’s a bittersweet time for the Francis family as they celebrate the anniversary of Comfort Smiles. The Francis girls celebrated with their father, but their mother, Grace, has gone on to glory. Prior to her passing in 2021, she was working in the practice, assisting her daughter and sharing her warm, loving spirit with every patient who walked through the doors. Today, Monique has made a picot in her own career to selflessly help her sister in the way her mother did. Keeping family values and a humanitarian spirit in tact, the Francis family are binding together to help each other continue to succeed, and keep their mother’s legacy alive.

DR Francis with her father Wellington Francis and Aunt Madrolee Bethel.

DR Francis with a student intern.

DR Welmilya Francis at her graduation with family

THE TEAM at Comfort Smiles

Russian doublespeak

IT is always said that George Orwell was credited with inventing doublespeak after coining the term doublethink in his novel 1984. Amongst various definitions, the former has been described as language that deliberately obscures, disguises, distorts or reverses the meaning of a word.

Such thoughts came to the forefront after reading Vladimir Putin’s speech at Russia’s Victory Day parade last week which seemed to me to meet this definition because in part it was intentionally inaccurate or untrue. Victory Day is held annually to remember the Soviet defeat of Germany during the Second World War and especially the human cost of that conflict – the more than 27 million Soviet citizens, both military and civilian, killed in what is known in Russia as the Great Patriotic war.

Who would not applaud such patriotic remembrance? But, according to reports, what many found deeply depressing, in the midst of the war in Ukraine that seems to be dragging on forever, was what the Russian leader had to say about his modernday country, and it made one realise that the words attributed to the widow of Alexei Navalny, the jailed opposition leader who died in a Russian prison in February, about Russia being doomed to failure as long as Putin stayed in office were likely to be proved all too accurate.

In his speech, Putin issued a warning to the West and indulged in some nuclear sabre-rattling. He said Russia would do anything to avoid a global confrontation but, at the same time, would not allow “anyone

The Peter Young column

to threaten us. Our strategic forces are always on combat alert”. To the listener, what he presumably meant was that external forces – and NATO in particular – are always on the point of attacking Russia. That is, of course, an absurd notion beyond reality. It is “Alice Through the Looking Glass stuff” and nothing more than an ex post facto justification of the invasion of Ukraine. Historically, some in the West did not agree with what they regarded as NATO’s encroachment eastwards during an enlargement process in 2004 which included bringing into NATO membership the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. However, that was the choice of those countries. After becoming independent from the former Soviet Union, they decided to look to the West for their future. Moreover, in his Victory Day speech, Putin made no mention of Russia’s aggression in the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in

2014 or the fact that from about the same time a military confrontation with the Kyiv government had been going on with Russian-speaking separatists in eastern Ukraine. Nor did he talk about the recent NATO membership of Finland and Sweden whose decision to join after years of neutrality will have been influenced by Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine.

For Putin, Victory Day was another opportunity to justify to his own people his invasion of Ukraine. He is clearly intent on

AN UNUSUAL EUROVISION SONG CONTEST

SUNDAY’S UK press headlines summed it up. “United by Music – not a chance” and “Europe divided” were two that caught the eye. But, on the thesis that “it’ll be all right on the night”, most reports of Saturday night’s final of the Eurovision Song Contest were positive as the 24 (normally 25 but the Netherlands were disqualified during the course of the event) contestants left in the competition battled it out for first place. In the end, Switzerland emerged as the runaway winner.

Performances are judged by a mix of public voting and by a professional jury in each participating country. Under the established format, the contest goes through various stages while whittling down the original entries (37 this year) ending up with the finalists performing live at a central venue, with a threeminute song in front of an audience of thousands and an estimated 200 million around the world. This year the final was in the port city of Malmo in Sweden.

The Eurovision Song Contest – often known simply as Eurovision – was started in 1956. It is an international song competition organised annually by the European Broadcasting Union and it was one of the first television shows to be broadcast to an international audience. It has been labelled “a show of cultural diversity unlike any other” and the organisers insist it is non-political and is indeed “above the political fray”. Over the years, it has been a peaceful and pleasant TV

event which people enjoyed tuning into – and the only rows have been about the odd allegation of tactical voting based on geographical solidarity or for some other reason. For example, in 2021, which was immediately after Brexit, the UK came in last!

Nonetheless, the 68th edition of Eurovision this year has been called – perhaps unfairly – the most chaotic and political one in its history. According to press reports, it was overshadowed by protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza, in particular the bombardment and destruction of infrastructure and killing and maiming of civilians. Protesters had called for the Israeli contestant to be banned from the competition. Even some of the other contestants indicated publicly their disapproval of Israel’s participation. There were large-scale protests in Malmo and the Israeli singer was confined to her hotel room for safety reasons, while protesters outside the Malmo arena accused the song contest organisers of “celebrating genocide”. Various other incidents, in the view of many, also marred the contest. One example was the disqualification of the Netherlands contestant, who had been tipped as one of the favourites, after an incident with a production crew member that turned out be a minor altercation with an official photographer. From afar, however, one has the impression that the international press might have been looking for drama

by identifying problems like demonstrations against Israel which, it turned out, were well controlled by the police. The evident conclusion is that the finals on Saturday evening went well without any major incident – and the Israeli contestant did, indeed, perform in the final and was place fifth in the contest.

As for the slogan which some newspapers say turned out to be a bit of a sham, Britain hosted last year’s Eurovision in Liverpool on behalf of war-torn Ukraine and adopted the slogan “United by Music” – and it appears to most commentators that it is the music that should still count irrespective of protests over Gaza.

My own experience of Eurovision relates, as is the case of others of my generation, to the winners in 1974 in the English town of Brighton – the Swedish pop band, Abba, with their song “Waterloo”. Not only did this become a number one single in Britain but it also topped the charts all over Europe. Abba’s triumph launched their amazing career as a group and put them on the road to stardom – though, for various reasons, their triumph did not make them universally popular in their own country – and no other Eurovision winner has been able to match their subsequent amazing success. For me and my nearest and dearest, tapes of their music became a permanent feature of long distance car journeys – so much so that I can still remember the words of some of their songs.

Restorative power of nature

BEING still in rehabilitation mode following surgery – and while contemplating what to cover in this week’s press column – there has been time to watch the reemergence of Nature in the garden at this time of year. The change of seasons is, of course, not so pronounced as in more northern climes but the changes brought on by warmer weather are easy to discern – and they leave one in awe of the phenomenon of Nature. They also remind one of the beauty of a well maintained lawn – even though mine could be so much better – and the beckoning thought that one will be able soon to see the fine grass courts at Wimbledon as the championships come round again. On a personal note, it also brings back memories of the first time my father allowed me as a youngster to cut the lawn at the family home with a motor mower, and triumphantly create the “up and down” pattern, just like the Wimbledon courts. What a wonderful sense of achievement it was to be trusted to do the job and I can readily recall it. As someone said, it’s the little things that matter.

presenting a patriotic Russia that is under threat from other countries and he hammers the West for fuelling conflicts around the world. For analysis of this and the broader question of Putin’s survival as the Russian president, I commend to readers the fine reporting of Steve Rosenberg, the BBC’s resident correspondent in Moscow who is one of Britain’s best Kremlin-watchers. Meanwhile, it was clear that Putin originally miscalculated the likely events on the ground following his Ukraine invasion

in February, 2022 in what he calls a special military operation.

After making initial inroads, the Russians’ lack of military success showed that the Ukrainians were committed to a long-term struggle with weapons and military supplies provided by Western countries. With reports of a threatened coup against Putin, as the body bags started coming in, some in the West hoped that this might lead to an effective challenge to his leadership. However, that turned out not to be the case. On the contrary, Putin has now

strengthened his position at home by successfully seeing off all opposition while he begins his fifth term in office after altering the Russian constitution to enable him to run for two further six-year terms; though his election victory in March, winning almost ninety per cent of the vote, was widely considered to be fraudulent.

For some, the irony of the situation is that, reportedly, when Putin first became president 24 years ago he undertook to promote democracy in a free, prosperous, strong and civilised country that was respected internationally. Russia even joined what was known as “the comity of nations” and the G7 was turned into the G8. But today, of course, all that has gone.

To many, it is terrible beyond measure that the horrors and cruelties perpetrated by Russian forces in an unprovoked war in Ukraine, including endless atrocities against civilians, should continue in one of Europe’s larger and more prosperous countries that is systematically being destroyed by Russia’s bombardment. British prime minister Rishi Sunak said only yesterday that Putin’s “recklessness has taken us closer to a dangerous nuclear escalation than at any point since the Cuban missile crisis in 1962”. Many people argue that the Russian leader cannot be allowed to succeed in Ukraine since that may embolden him to attack other countries. The evil unleashed on Ukraine by Putin is beyond description and unforgiveable and it now seems to be the case that the only hope of ending the conflict lies in a change of Russian leadership.

RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin listens to Mikhail Mishustin, the candidate for the post of Russian Prime Minister during their meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Friday. Photo: Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik/Kremlin Pool Photo/AP

$1M in funding granted to 43 startup and existing agricultural and fishing businesses

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

THE Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources in partnership with Access Accelerator granted 43 people funding for start-up and existing agricultural and fishing businesses.

The total amount of the grants was $1m.

Most of the recipients were from the Family Islands: Grand Bahama, Berry Islands, Andros, Eleuthera, Exuma, Long

Island and Cat Island.

The Sustainable Food Grant provided up to $40,000 in funding to both start-up and existing businesses.

Sixty per cent of the funding pool was dedicated to businesses in the fishing industry, with the remaining 40 per cent to be channelled into the agriculture sector. Grand Bahama had the most applicants, 80, and New Providence had 78. Agriculture and Marine Resources Minister Jomo Campbell said this grant

is meant to support and empower organisations that are keen to produce more food within the country.

He said the government is seeking to reduce the country’s food imports by the end of 2025.

“Bahamians are resonating with the message that we have to grow more of what we eat,” he said.

“And this government is ready to support you.”

“We are continuing our commitment to invest in food production businesses to reduce our

reliance on food imports and create new economic opportunities for today, tomorrow and many years to come.”

Small Business Development Centre executive director Samantha Rolle noted the desire to drive growth and innovation within the agricultural sector.

“With more than 40 per cent of the applicants representing start-up businesses, we are thrilled to witness a wave of fresh ideas that contribute to the vitality of these

industries,” she said.

“This overwhelming response reaffirms our belief in the transformative power of small businesses as we strive for a more resilient and prosperous future for The Bahamas.”

Justin Bethel, 24, owner of Harbour Club Seafood, expressed gratitude for the grant, adding that it will benefit his start-up business because he can buy a fishing vessel.

“I have been a fisherman all my life and I also feel like the consumption

of food in the Bahamas isn’t as healthy as it should be, knowing that we live on an island, surrounded by water and fish,” he said.

“I feel as if it should be one of our main diets. Also, it should be something that we don’t import, so my goal is to mainly supply local Bahamians so that we could have fresher intake in our diet and our society and focus less on exports. It’s really more about Bahamian people being able to eat healthy.”

BAHFSA PARTNERS WITH TA THOMPSON SCHOOL TO CONSTRUCT CHICKEN COOP

By KEILE CAMPBELL kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Agri-

cultural Food and Safety Authority (BAHFSA) has partnered with TA Thompson Junior High School’s Agricultural Science programme to construct a new chicken coop and a shade house for the school while donating soil and fertiliser to commemorate International Day of Plant Health. At a handover ceremony yesterday, BAHFSA chairman Dr Patricia Symonette spoke to students and TA Thompson staff about the importance of food security and the various career paths available in the agricultural sector outside of towing and tilling fields.

She said the government is working towards establishing a national laboratory to develop the country’s agricultural sector.

Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo Campbell said donating agro-inputs is not merely an act of charity but a commitment to empowering the country’s youth and ensuring a brighter agricultural future.

“These inputs present more than just tangible resources,” he said. “They symbolise opportunity, growth, and potential, so as we gather here today, let us reflect on the importance of nurturing our agricultural heritage and passing on the torch to the next generation.”

Teen admits to stabbing two students in Andros

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 17-YEAR-OLD boy was placed on probation yesterday after he admitted to smuggling a knife into a school in Andros and stabbing two students last week.

Magistrate Samuel McKinney charged the teenager, whose name is being withheld because he is a minor, with two counts of assault with a deadly weapon, two counts of causing harm and a single count of unlawful carrying.

The defendant’s guardian was present for his arraignment. The defendant reportedly attacked and injured two male students with a knife at F.E. Stevens Academy in Central Andros around 9.20am on May 8. After pleading guilty to the charges, the defendant was granted a conditional discharge. He must compensate both complainants $150 each. He will also be placed on an 18-month probation.

He would incur a $1,500 fine or risk one year in prison if he defaults.

TEEN ACCUSED OF RAPE OF WOMAN LAST MONTH

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

AN 18-YEAR-OLD youth was behind bars yesterday after he was accused of sexually assaulting a 23-year-old woman in April. Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged Keano Rolle with rape. Rolle is accused of raping a woman in New Providence on April 27. Rolle was told his matter would be moved to the Supreme Court by a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). His VBI is set for release on August 14. Levan Johnson represented the accused.

17-YEAR-OLD BOY CHARGED WITH TWO ARMED CARJACKINGS

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 17-YEAR-OLD boy was sent to jail yesterday after he was accused of two armed carjackings last month.

Magistrate Lennox Coleby charged the teenage defendant, whose name is being withheld because he is a minor, with two counts of armed robbery The juvenile was also charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition. The defendant was arraigned in the presence of his guardian. The juvenile, and an accomplice, armed with a handgun, are accused of robbing Bernard Grant of a red Nissan Juke outside a

residence on Opulent Drive on the night of April 6. That day, the accused also allegedly robbed Nathalie Rolle at gunpoint of her white Nissan Note valued at $6,000. The juvenile was allegedly found with a black Ruger 9mm pistol and six rounds of 9mm ammunition on May 7.

He pleaded not guilty to the gun charges and was informed that the armed robbery charges would proceed to the Supreme Court by way of a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). The juvenile will be remanded to Simpson Penn. His matter will be transferred to Magistrate Algernon Allen, Jr’s court on Friday. Alphonso Lewis represented the accused.

MINISTER of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo Campbell is taken on a tour by students during a ceremony to mark the International Day of Plant Health at T.A. Thompson Junior High School yesterday.

Photos: Dante Carrer/Tribune Staff

Violence is traumatising Haitian kids, now country is breaking taboo on mental health services

PORT-AU-PRINCE

Associated Press

STUDENTS often throw up or wet themselves when gunfire erupts outside their school in northern Port-au-Prince.

When they do, school director Roseline Ceragui Louis finds there’s only one way to try to calm the children and keep them safe: getting them to lie on the classroom floor while she sings softly.

“You can’t work in that environment,” she said. “It’s catastrophic. They’re traumatized.”

Haiti’s capital is under the onslaught of powerful gangs that control 80% of the city.

On Feb. 29, gangs launched coordinated attacks targeting key infrastructure. The attacks have left more than 2,500 people dead or wounded in the first three months of the year. Now, in a bid to help save Haiti’s youngest generation, the country is undergoing a wider push to dispel a longstanding taboo on seeking therapy and talking about mental health.

GETTING HELP

At a recent training session in a relatively safe section of Port-au-Prince, parents learned games to put a smile on their children’s faces. The parents are often so distraught and discouraged they don’t have energy to care for the kids, said Yasmine Déroche, who trains adults to help children overcome trauma inflicted by persistent gang violence.

Gunmen have burned police stations, stormed Haiti’s two biggest prisons to release more than 4,000 inmates and fired on the country’s main international airport, which closed March 4 and hasn’t reopened. The violence has also paralysed Haiti’s largest seaport.

Meanwhile, some 900 schools have closed, affecting some 200,000 children.

“We must fight against this social inequality so that all children, all young people, can have the same opportunities to go to school, to work, to earn a living,” said Chrislie Luca, president of the nonprofit Hearts for Change

Organization for Deprived Children of Haiti. “All of these are problems that have led us where we are today, with the country on the edge of the abyss.”

EDGE OF THE ABYSS

UNICEF’s Haiti representative said the violence has displaced more than 360,000 people, the majority women and children. In addition, at least onethird of the 10,000 victims of sexual violence last year were children, Bruno Maes said.

“Children are left to fend for themselves, without assistance, without enough protection,” he said.

More than 80 children were killed or wounded from January to March, a 55% increase over the last quarter of 2023 and “the most violent period for children in the country on record,” said Save the Children, a US nonprofit.

Luca said among those hurt were two boys struck in the head while walking to school and an 8-year-old girl playing inside her home when she was hit by a bullet that tore through her intestines, requiring emergency surgery.

“We are witnessing a lot of mental health issues,” Maes said. “This violence is traumatizing.”

Louis said her 10-year-old son would daily cry “You’re going to die!” as she headed to school, and the violence did not allow the boy to eat, sleep or play.

Louis remained resolute, knowing she had to be strong for him and her students.

“My heart is destroyed, but my students see my smile every day,” she said. Still, many would fall asleep in class, unable to focus after sleepless nights punctuated by gunfire.

Others had more important things on their mind.

“It’s hard to focus at school or focus on playing a game when the rest of your body is worried about whether your mom and dad are going to be alive when you get home from school,” said Steve Gross, founder of the US nonprofit Life is Good Playmaker Project.

Some students are increasingly drawn into gangs, toting heavy

weapons as they charge drivers for safe passage through gang territory.

“The young children are traumatized and agitated,” said Nixon Elmeus, a teacher whose school closed in January. He recalled how his best student stopped talking after an encounter with gangs. Other students become violent: “Ever since the war started, the children themselves have acted like they’re part of a gang.”

LEARNING TO COPE

Gèrye Jwa Playmakers, a Haitian partner nonprofit aimed at helping children, held a training session for teachers that Louis attended after gang violence forced her school to close in March. She learned which games were best to distract students from the violence outside school gates.

“How can I recapture these children?” she asked.

With hundreds of schools closed, online courses are for those who can afford Wi-Fi and a generator. Most Haitians live often in the dark due to chronic power outages.

With no school, high

poverty and trauma such as having to sidestep mangled bodies on streets, kids have become easy prey. Between 30% to 50% of members of armed groups are now children, Maes noted.

“That’s a very sad reality,” he said.

A 24-year-old man who offered only his last name, Nornile, for safety reasons, said he was in a gang for five years.

He said he joined because the gang gave him money he needed and provided more food than his mother, a vendor, and his father, a mason, could offer him and his seven siblings.

At night, he would work as a security guard for the gang leader. During the day, he would run errands and buy him food, clothes, sandals and other goods. Nornile said felt proud the gang trusted him but thought about quitting when one of his three brothers was killed by gangs on June 16, 2022.

“Ghetto men don’t fight for education or a hospital. They fight for territory,” he said. “They only care about themselves.”

Nornile left the gang two years after his brother

died and began working for Luca’s nonprofit.

“The reality of the gang is that the person can carry a weapon, but in his mind, that’s not what he really wants,” Nornile said.

PLAYING AGAIN

Jean Guerson Sanon, co-founder and executive director of Gèrye Jwa Playmakers, stressed the importance of parents interacting daily with children to boost their mental health.

“Sometimes, that’s all we have,” he said, noting that conversations about mental health remain largely taboo.

“If you go see a psychologist, it’s because you’re ‘crazy,’ and ‘crazy’ people are really discriminated against in Haiti,” he said.

At the training on a recent Sunday, parents learned games for their children. One was mirroring the other person; another was pretending an inflatable ball was a piece of cheese that the child, pretending to be a mouse, had to steal.

By the end of the training, parents were giggling as they invented different dance moves in a large

circle in yet another way to play with their kids.

When asked to draw what a safe space meant to them, several of them drew homes; some drew flowers; and one, Guirlaine Reveil, drew a man with a gun as she approached a police station — a real-life scenario that occurred a couple years ago.

One parent, Celestin Roosvelt, said he tells his children, 2 and 3, that gunfire is not a bad thing, a lie he called necessary.

“You have to find a way to live in your own country,” he said with an apologetic shrug.

At the end of the training, parents were given a copy of the presentation, crayons and an inflatable ball.

Déroche, who runs the program, noted how parents feel so overwhelmed that they are disconnected from their children’s needs.

“I know that the crisis we’re living through right now will have consequences that will take I don’t know how many years to sort out,” she said.

Canadian town prepares for possible ‘last stand’ as wildfires rage in British Columbia

BRITISH COLUMBIA Associated Press

AN intense wildfire could reach a town in western Canada this week, fire experts and officials warned, based on forecasts of winds that have fuelled the outof-control blaze, which has forced the evacuation of thousands of people.

The British Columbia Wildfire Service said the wildfire was burning 2½ kilometres (around 1½ miles) northwest of Fort Nelson.

More than 4,700 people have evacuated after an order was issued on Friday.

Bowinn Ma, the province’s minister of emergency management, said that drought conditions have persisted since last year and no rain is in the forecast.

“We are extremely concerned,” she said. “It is extremely uncommon for us to have so many on a evacuation order.”

Cliff Chapman, the service’s director of operations, said they were fortunate that stronger winds didn’t materialize overnight, but said that winds were expected to continue to blow west over the next day or two.

“We did not see the winds through the evening,” Chapman said.

He said that helicopters and bulldozers are being used to fight the wildfire, while most ground crews focus on protecting structures.

Fire crews and emergency workers were preparing for a “last stand” if the fire advances into the town, said Rob Fraser, mayor of the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality based in Fort Nelson. Fraser said that less than 100 people remained in town. The wildfire service encouraged those left to leave.

The wildfire had swelled to nearly 53 square kilometres (20 square miles). The service’s fire behaviour specialist, Ben Boghean, said that the extreme fire behaviour — made worse by years of drought and a below-normal snowpack this past winter — could threaten the crews that have been fighting the nearby Parker Lake wildfire. In 2023, Canada experienced a record number of wildfires that caused choking smoke in parts of the US and forced more than 235,000 Canadians to evacuate their communities. There were no civilian casualties, but at least four firefighters died. A smoky haze from the Canadian wildfires hung over parts of the US states of Minnesota and Wisconsin on Monday, pushing air quality down to unhealthy levels for the second consecutive day.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued its first air quality alert of the season for the entire

on Sunday, extending until

A WOMAN covers her face as part of an exercise during a class for adults on how to help children overcome trauma and fear amid violence, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Sunday. As young Haitians are increasingly exposed to violence, the country is undergoing a wider push to

Photo: Ramon Espinosa/AP

A WILDFIRE, with Aurora Borealis overhead, near Fort Nelson, British Columbia Saturday. An intense wildfire could impact a town in western Canada soon, based on forecasts of strong winds that have been fuelling the out-of-control blaze which has already forced

evacuation of thousands, fire experts and officials warned.

NEW PROVIDENCE SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION KICKS OFF NEW SEASON

THE New Providence Softball Association kicked off its 2024 season over the weekend in the Bankers’ Field at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex. In the double header played on Saturday night, the Cybertech Blue Marlins needed just three innings to stop the Renegades 16-0 in the men’s feature contest, while the RAB Operators stunned the Sunshine Wildcats 13-11 in the ladies’ opener.

The league, headed by Dwayne Stevens, opened the season on Friday night with a massive awards presentation following the completion of the

ladies’ championship series from last year.

Here’s a summary of the twin bill on Saturday: Marlins 16, Renegades 0: Deon Whyte out-dueled Preston Clarke on the mound. Whyte and Cybertech gave up just one hit in the three innings, but Clarke and the Renegades gave up seven hits.

Thomas Davis was a perfect 2-for-2 with a double, three RBI and two runs scored and Levaughn Ferguson was 1-for-1 with a double, two RBI and three runs scored for the Marlins.

Cybertech produced nine runs in the first inning, one in the second and sixth in the third in sealing their abbreviated threeinning affair via the mercy rule.

Amahj McPhee was 1-for-1 in a losing effort for the Renegades. Operators 13, Wildcats 11

Mia Turner got the win on the mound as the Operators limited Sunshine Auto to seven hits. Thela Stevens suffered the loss as the Wildcats surrendered 10 hits to RAB.

Jeanette Hilton went 3-for-4 with a double and three runs batted in to lead the Operators.

Aaliyah Ferguson was 1-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored and Melinda Bastian was 1-for-4 with a triple and three runs scored. The Operators scored three runs in the third, five in the fifth, four in the sixth and another in the seventh. The Wildcats responded with a pair of runs in both the first and second, one in the third and two more in the fifth, sixth and seventh. Stevens also helped her own cause in the loss with a 2-for-3 night with two triples, two RBI and as many runs scored. Kenya Forbes was a perfect 3-for-3 with a double, two RBI and three runs

Sprinter Wanya McCoy ‘making the adjustment’ ahead of Paris Olympics

Championships in Costa Rica last year. “I said then that I believe the Bahamas would have its biggest track and field team going to the Olympics in 2024,” he recalled.

“For me to make it as a junior in college, I basically spoke it into existence.

“I really didn’t expect to be a part of the team for an individual event. I was thinking about making it for the relay team. But to be there in an individual event is going to be bigger than what I anticipated. I can’t wait.”

Although he ran track and field for fun, McCoy was concentrating on basketball as a member of the Doris Johnson Mystic Marlins’ senior boys team. He came off the bench as he played alongside his older brother Malachi McCoy, in his senior year when the Mystic Marlins repeated as champions in 2019.

Wanya McCoy then transferred to Queen’s College in 2020 where head coach Everette Fraser worked with him through his Fast Forward Track Club to develop the 6-foot, 4 3/4-inch frame into a 200/400m specialist.

After graduating from Queen’s College in 2021, McCoy was able to secure a scholarship to attend Clemson. He then entered the transfer portal last June and by July had signed with Florida.

“At first I was scared because I didn’t know what to expect,” McCoy said. “It was a whole new environment, new coaches and you didn’t know how you would do.

“But I had the faith and confidence that I would be able to do it. I think I made the right choice. I made the choice of my life. It worked out for me. And I always wanted to be closer to home.”

On entering college in 2022, McCoy made the switch from running the 400 to the 100/200 double, a move he was just as pleased with.

“I think it was a good decision, but no matter what, I will continue running the 200m. That is my bread and butter,” McCoy said. “So switching from the 400m to the 100m is something that I needed to do.”

At last year’s indoor season, McCoy said he ran his last college 400m. But he didn’t rule out the possibility of running the event outdoors when he turns pro.

“I want to get the NCAA title in the Nationals and then go to the Olympics and do my thing,” said McCoy, who is ranked at No.2 in the 200 and No4 in the 100m. “I know a lot of people counted me out because of the injury, but now they see that I’m back healthy.

“I know for a fact that there aren’t four guys in

WANYA McCoy has achieved the qualifying standard in the men’s 200 metres for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, July 27 to August 11.

the NCAA who are better than me.

“I’m not being boastful, but I just don’t think there are that many guys out there who are better than me right now.”

As long as he continues to be the “person, who he is and just executes his races,” McCoy said, he stands a chance at being the NCAA champion. He thanks God, his parents,

Sandra and Sergio McCoy coach Fraser, who inspire him to run track, as well as his brothers and sisters, including his role model, Malachi, who is in South Carolina after just graduating from Benedict College. Fraser had nothing but commendation for McCoy, who is still a member of his Fast Track Athletics team.

“I saw his potential from when he was in high school,” said Fraser of coaching McCoy at Queen’s College. “I always felt he was a fellow who could run 19-seconds in the 200 and 44-seconds in the 400.

“He’s not running the 400m anymore, but I know he could do it. I’m very proud of his accomplishments in the 200 and now in the 100. I always knew he could do it. He made a lot of sacrifices to get to where he is right now.”

Fraser said he’s excited to see what the future holds for McCoy, whom he feels will make the adjustment from the collegiate to the pro ranks. Just as it was a smooth transition in other areas of his career.

“Our job is just to set him up so he could be successful in life and it shows that he is making the adjustment,” Fraser said. “He made a big move from Clemson to Florida and everything is working out for him.” McCoy is currently studying educational science.

RED-LINE ATHLETICS’ INAUGURAL

EVENTS CLASSIC ON

SATURDAY

FROM PAGE 16

The 5-rounds swiss tournament will now be rescheduled over the weekend of June 29-30.

TRACK RED-LINE YOUTH

CLASSIC

THE Red-Line Athletics Track Club is slated to hold its 3rd Annual RedLine Youth Track Classic on Saturday, May 25 at the original Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

The event will cater to all of the track and field events for the age group athletes ranging from 8-and under-20. There will also be one or two events for the open category. Interested persons can contact Red-Line Athletics’ coach Tito Moss at 425-4262 for further details.

BASKETBALL NEX-GEN

THE third annual Nex-Gen Elite Training Basketball Camp, hosted by JR Basketball Academy, is all set for June 24 to July 13 from 9am to noon at the Telios Indoor Gymnasium on Carmichael Road.

The camp, powered by Frazier’s Roofing, will provide training for game situations, shooting, passibng, ball handling, defense and footwork for boys and girls between the ages of 8-19 years.

Registration is now open. Interested persons can contact Cadot at 535-9354, email jrcbasketballacademy.com or go online to www.jrcbasketballacademy.com

TRACK

RED-LINE

FIELD CLASSIC

THE Red-Line Athletics Track Club is scheduled to hold its 2024 Field Event Classic on Saturday, May 18 at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium from 9am to 3pm.

will throw in a mixed throwers

4 x 100 relay and a mixed 4 x 100 relay for the jumpers. Other than that, it’s only field events.”

As any event in its infancy stage, Moss said they anticipate that there will be performances that will surpass their expectations.

FROM PAGE 16 FROM PAGE 16

performances. I just went out there and blasted the 200m,” she said.

“Even after running so fast, my legs were still a little heavy, but I was proud of everything that I did.”

With her goal accomplished, Cartwright said she’s now looking forward to completing her collegiate eligibility in her final meet at the NCAA Division II championships May 23-25 in Emporia, Kansas. “I feel

“We have also brought some performance boards that will be used for the spectators to see exactly what is going on at each station. So we’re looking forward to a really exciting meet.”

“It’s new so as time goes by, we expect that it will grow as all things new. But we expect the normal keen competition. This meet, like all Red-Line meets, will be well executed and well-organised,” he stressed.

The meet will get started at 9am on Saturday and Moss is encouraging the general public to come out and cheer on the field event athletes as they compete in their own meet.

The Red-Line Athletics’ third annual Red-Line Athletic Youth Classic is scheduled for May 25-26 at the same venue. Already, RedLine Athletics has hosted the

annual Sonja Knowles Track Classic that took place at the end of January. The club, which will celebrate its sixth annual in August, has also staged a cross country fun run in September. Moss said every year they will look at enhancing what they do for the sport. Additionally, the club also competes in several meets outside of the country.

The event is geared strictly for field events, including the high, long and triple jumps and the javelin, discus and shot put throwing events.

Interested athletes are urged to contact Red-Line Athletics’ coach Tito Moss at 425-4262 for further details.

amazing. I really can’t complain,” she stressed. “I just have to rest up and be fresh when I go back to practice for nationals.”

Once she’s done with college, Cartwright knows she has to come home and solidify her spot on the Olympic team by competing against Charlton and Taylor in the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ Nationals, as well as the rest of the field, including Olympian Pedrya Seymour, who is making her comeback this year.

“It feels great that I can actually go out there and compete with the other women at home,” Cartwright said.

“At Nationals, I will be there to see what I have to do to get ready for the Olympics.

“As a senior, it’s a great feeling to qualify for the

administration.

HURDLER Denisha Cartwright has qualified for the Olympic Games in Paris, France.

Hack<IT> returns to Nassau

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

A STEM camp is slated to return this summer.

Hack<IT> Bahamas, a week-long Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp aimed at empowering Bahamian youth is set to run from July 23 to July 27 in New Providence.

The camp was founded by Aisha Bowe, former NASA Rocket scientist, CEO of LINGO Solutions, Inc, and Blue Origin Astronaut and is designed to inspire and cultivate the next generation of technology innovators and entrepreneurs through hands-on STEM education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship.

Hack<IT> Bahamas 2024 will host students in grades 9-12, offering them a unique opportunity to engage with leading industry experts and participate in hands-on activities that fuse technology and entrepreneurship.

The camp is free of charge and will allow participants to explore cutting-edge areas of STEM, including space, coding and AI and learn to think like entrepreneurs by developing a startup solution (“hack”) to a real-world problem that improves life in The Bahamas.

Industry leaders will mentor students, sharing lessons learned, insights, and guidance with students and the camp

will culminate in a pitch competition, where students will present their projects to local business leaders for a chance at mentorship, employment, or even investment.

Ms Bowe said the camp is making technology education more accessible and providing students with an opportunity to make an impact in the sector.

“Hack<IT> Bahamas is more than just a camp, it’s a movement to democratise access to technology education in The Bahamas.”

“We believe that every student, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to make an impact in the tech world. This camp is a step towards making that belief a reality.”

Registration for Hack<IT> Bahamas 2024 is open now. Interested students and their parents are encouraged to visit www.hackitcamp.com for more information and to apply.

BAMSI HOLDS 2024 COMMENCEMENT

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) held its 2024 commencement ceremony, ushering in new generation of professionals to the agricultural, environmental and marine sector.

Students graduated with Associate of Science degrees in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Environmental Science, Marine Science and Business Management. The institution also awarded certificates for flats fishing certification, nature tour guide certification and trained guides.

Minister of Agriculture and Marine Sciences, Jomo Campbell

said he was proud of the graduate’s dedication to learning and passion for advancing the agricultural and marine sciences industries. He encouraged them to continue to cultivate innovation and sustainability as they embark on their journeys beyond the classroom. Special awardees included Kyajah Davis who received the academic achievement award in Agriculture; Joel Bain, academic award in Agribusiness; Marilin Matelus, academic achievement award in Environmental Science; Kristin Wallace, award of excellence in Marine Science, best student research paper and Spirit of BAMSI award; and Edlicia Green, award of excellence in business and Valedictorian.

KERIC ROLLE IS LEADING THE WAY FOR BAHAMIANS

By FAY SIMMONS

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

KERIC Rolle is breaking barriers in the field of actuarial science, becoming one of a few Bahamians to attain the Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA) designation.

The process included passing a series of nine gruelling examinations, which are notoriously difficult to pass with pass rates consistently around 50 percent.

He began his studies in Actuarial Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he obtained a Bachelors of Science in Actuarial Science and went on to complete his examinations while working full-time.

Keric’s interest in the field was

sparked after reading a newspaper article that highlighted the benefits of the lesser-known career path.

After researching the industry, he decided to pursue Actuarial Science as a career due to his high aptitude for mathematics, critical thinking and problem solving as well as the field’s $100,000 to $200,000 annual earning potential.

He explained that he was also drawn to the career due to the scarcity of the actuaries within the Bahamas and the challenging but rewarding journey to attain FSA designation

“The designation validates me as an expert in my field. Reaching FSA makes Keric just 1 of 4 fully qualified Bahamian actuaries

practicing here in our native Bahamas,” he said.

“The scarcity of actuaries can be attributed to a lack of awareness of the career, the gruelling 9-exam journey and that most candidates opt to stop taking exams, or change careers before reaching the end”

Keric highlighted the importance of ‘laying the foundation’ for future Bahamian actuaries and inspiring young people to expand their career opportunities.

“As one of the early actuaries it’s important that I lay a foundation for future actuaries to thrive. That means expanding career opportunities beyond insurance, and shattering other assumed limitations,” he said.

Keric has also become an

entrepreneur through his financial services firm, Expert Consulting, where he works as an Actuarial Consultant specializing in financial modelling and quantitative analysis.

“Actuarial consulting is about using your expertise to develop unique solutions that meet client needs. I collaborate with clients across diverse industries typically producing complex financial projections that enhance client understanding and facilitate informed decision-making,” he explained.

“I aspire to lead a comprehensive actuarial consulting firm, leveraging Bahamian talent to handle complex projects, catering to clients domestically and internationally.”

KERIC ROLLE

THE HACK<IT> Bahamas camp returns this summer, founded by Aisha Bowe.

SPORTS

Sprinter Wanya McCoy ‘making the adjustment’

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

The decision to switch from playing basketball to running track as a high school student who moved from Doris Johnson to Queen’s College, from competing in the 400 metres to the sprints and transferring from Clemson University to the University of Florida, has paid off big dividends for Wanya McCoy.

Now in his junior year in college, McCoy highlighted his season over the weekend when he powered his way to a pair of second-place finishes in his specialty in the men’s 200 metres and another in the 100m at the Southeastern Conference Championships in Gainesville, Florida.

With a lifetime best of 19.93 seconds, McCoy became the third fastest Bahamian as he also earned the No.2 time in NCAA Division I for the 2024 season and the No.4 time in the Gators’ history.

To top it off, McCoy achieved the qualifying standard for the men’s 200m for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, July 27 to August 11.

The performance came after he ran the fourth fastest time by a Bahamian in the 100m in a personal best of 10.02 that fell short of the Olympic qualifier, but was the No.6 on the Florida AllTime top 10 list.

“I was ecstatic about my performances,” said McCoy about his performances over the weekend. “I had a pretty good indoor season and then I got injured and I had to sit out for about a month and I missed nationals.

“After the injury, I came back outdoors and I opened up with the 200m with a personal best and two weeks later, I ran the 100m and was close to my personal best. I only ran about three races during the outdoor season.

“I then went to the SEC Championships this weekend where I ran my PR every round in the 100m. I was kind of mad I didn’t get

the sub-10 for the Olympic qualification, but I am looking forward to getting it so I can do the sprint double in my first national team.”

As for the 200m, McCoy said he was right on target and he performed as anticipated, making the Olympic

cut and now he can get ready for the long trek to Paris this summer.

“For me to run the 19 seconds was pretty good because I never ran under 20-seconds,” he said. “I went from 20.4 to 19.9, so that was a huge jump. But

coming into the meet, I wanted to do it in the preliminaries because I wasn’t sure how the finals would go. When I didn’t do it in the preliminaries, I knew I had to go for it in the final.

When I saw the time on the clock, I wanted to cry, but I

had to hold in my emotions because I still had the 4 x 400m relay to run.”

McCoy, 21, now trails co-national record hold-

ers Derrick Atkins and Terrence Jones (9.91) and Samson Colebrooke (10.01) on the top Bahamian century list and national record holder Steven Gardiner (19.75) and Jones (19.93) in the half-lap race.

McCoy said he now wants to go after the Bahamian national records in both events and hopefully be a medal contender at the Olympics.

“If I get to run what I want to run, I may just forfeit my senior year and just go pro,” McCoy said.

“Tomorrow is not promised to anybody, so if I can go for it, I will do it.”

To achieve his Olympic dream as a collegiate in what he called a “breakout” junior year, McCoy said he remembers getting started running track competitively in 2021 and he made his first national team to compete at the NACAC

SEE PAGE 14

Denisha Cartwright pleased with performance

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

DENISHA Cartwright knew sooner or later that she would qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games. Over the weekend, she booked her ticket to Paris, France for the games, scheduled for July 27 to August 11, in the women’s 100 metre hurdles as she helped Minnesota State Mavericks women’s track and field claim the NSIC Outdoor Championship at Mark Schuck Outdoor Track & Field Complex.

On their home field at the MSU campus for the NCAA Division II threeday championship, senior Cartwright was stellar for the Mavericks with three individual titles, including her Olympic clincher in the women’s 100m hurdles, joining world indoor record

holder Devynne Charlton and Charisma Taylor. Her winning time of 12.60 seconds also broke the NSIC record, facility record and MSU programme record and set the NCAA Division II All-Time Record.

Cartwright’s time was the second fastest in collegiate outdoor track this season (all divisions) and the 15th quickest time in women’s 100m hurdles in collegiate history, equalling Priscilla Lopes (2006, Nebraska) and Cindy Sember (2015, Michigan).

“Coach (Chris) Parno (associate head men’s and women’s track and field coach/recruiting coordinator - sprints and hurdles) and I really felt that in the right atmosphere in the finals, she could do something special,” said Mavericks men’s and women’s track & field head coach Mike Turgeon.

THE SPORTS CALENDAR

GET ready for the annual Coach Kevin Johnson’s Basketball Camp 2024. Coach Kevin ‘KJ’ Johnson has announced that his camp will run from June 24 to July 12 at the CI Gibson Secondary High School and will run daily from 9am to 1pm. For $120 for three weeks, campers will get a chance to play and learn the fundamentals of the game of basketball from professional instructors. Interested persons can sign up by contacting coach Johnson at 6369350 or email: coachkjjohnson@ gmail.com

May, 2024

CHESS BCF GENERAL MEETING THE Bahamas Chess Federation will hold a general meeting at 3pm on Sunday, May 19 in the conference room at the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture. Secretary Angel Pratt revealed that the meeting is open to members only. CHESS SEYMOUR TOURNEY POSTPONED THE Bahamas Chess Federation has announced that the Warren Seymour Classic that was scheduled for this weekend has been postponed. The 5-rounds swiss tournament will

SEE PAGE 14

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

WITH the tremendous success being achieved by the field competitors, as opposed to the track athletes, the Red-Line Athletics Track Club has decided to award them for their efforts.

The Red-Line Athletics, which has hosted a series of track and field meets in the past few years, will branch out to stage their inaugural Field Events Classic this Saturday at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.

“For her to go out and run the 15th fastest time in the world, hit the Olympic A Standard and now she’ll be in the Olympic games, breaking the Division II record by a 10th, just what a stellar performance.”

Turgeon said Cartwright is “so driven, so dialed into everything coach Parno teaches.”

Turgeon noted that their training staff has done “a tremendous job keeping her healthy through everything that hurdlers go through.”

Cartwright, a 24-year-old former volleyball player, said she was speechless and she couldn’t believe it, although she knew she was on course to achieve it.

“I expected it, but I was just waiting for the right time,” Cartwright said. “I just went out there and ran and executed my race. I knew I had it in me.

“I knew it was going to be a fast time because my season started off fast and my times kept dropping. So it was just a matter of time that I did it.”

On becoming the third Bahamian to qualify for the hurdles, Cartwright said she’s looking forward to going to Paris and “experiencing something that I have never experienced before.”

While she achieved the feat in the hurdles, one of the three events that she competed in, Cartwright won the 200m final in 23.07 for a season’s best and facility record time to place her second in Division II this spring. And in the 100m dash, Cartwright picked up another win with a facility record time of 11.30. “I was satisfied with my

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for the

Club president and head coach Tito Moss said it’s the first time that there will be an all-field event that includes all of the throwing and jumping events, including the pole vault, as they make it a staple event on the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations’ calendar. More than 200 athletes, according to Moss, have already signed up to participate as they compete for crystal trophies for the

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WANYA McCoy has achieved the qualifying standard in the men’s 200 metres for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, July 27 to August 11.

DENISHA Cartwright in action.

TROPHIES

Red-Line Athletics’ inaugural Field Events Classic at the original Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadium.