12202016 business by tribune242

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2016

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Chinese fraud suit alleges Bahamas bank ‘conflicted’ By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net A Bahamian bank has now become embroiled as a “third-party defendant” in a lawsuit that alleges it may have had a ‘conflict of interest’ in its dealings over a purported Chinese real estate investment fraud. Investment promoter, Benny Ping Wing Leung, and his company, First Toronto Realty, are effectively claiming that EFG Bank & Trust (Bahamas) acted for ‘both sides’ over a collective $3.75 million investment in a 36-storey Chinese office and retail tower, called Project Ningbo. Besides acting as “invest-

EFG named ‘third party defendant’ in $3.75m dispute ‘Advised’ investors, but also ‘placement agent’ Bank slams ‘preposterous’ claim against it ment adviser and negotiator” for other EFG clients who ultimately invested in Project Ningbo, the bank also allegedly served as “placement agent” for

Sir Franklyn ‘shock’ at gas pump rip-off claim By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net Sir Franklyn Wilson yesterday said he was “shocked” and “amazed” by assertions from a Government regulator that consumers are being short-changed at 50 per cent of the Bahamas’ gasoline pumps. The FOCOL Holdings chairman said he was unaware of the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) findings, but emphasised that neither his firm - nor any other oil industry player - would seek to deliberately cheat the Bahamian public. “I’ve never heard that before. I’m shocked,” Sir Franklyn told Tribune Business of findings that were revealed by the Bureau’s director, Dr Renae Ferguson-Bufford, at last week’s Chamber-organised energy conference. “What can I say. I’m amazed,” added the chairman of the Bahamas’ shell distributor. “I’m positive that we have no policy to cheat the public, and I don’t think any other company would have that policy. “I can’t tell you more than that. Whatever it is, there’s no intent. I’m positive that would be the view of anyone in the industry. No one intends to cheat the public.” Sir Franklyn said he was unable to say more, given that he had “no idea what research” the Standards Bureau had conducted, and how it had arrived at its findings and conclusions. “I couldn’t agree more;

FOCOL chair: ‘No intent’ to shortchange public ‘Amazed’ at Standards Bureau’s ‘50% faulty’ finding Fully agrees motorists should ‘get what they pay for’

Sir Franklyn Wilson you should get what you pay for. There’s certainly no intent from us other than for people to get what they paid for,” he told Tribune Business. “No reputable company, as a matter of corporate policy, seeks to rob the public. It’s not they way.” Dr Ferguson-Bufford gave little insight into her findings at last week’s conference other than the headline ‘50 per cent’ figure, and See pg b6

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Cathexis Holding (Cayman), the company that issued the notes to investors. Cathexis and Sirius V Asia Partners, both of which Leung admitted he was “affiliated” with, already enjoyed a “business relationship” with EFG, which held their deposits prior to the 2009-2010 deal over Project Ningbo. “At various times, officers of EFG, who managed EFG’s relationship with Cathexis and Sirius, advised Leung as an officer of Cathexis and Sirius that other, high net worth customers of EFG had an appetite for high yield investment opportunities and invited Leung, Cathexis and Sirius to bring to EFG’s at-

tention such opportunities,” Leung alleged. Such an opportunity emerged via Project Ningbo in June 2009, and Leung further claimed: “EFG proposed to act in dual capacities as the investment advisor and negotiator for its other customers, and as placement agent for Cathexis.” The promoter said he did not know the precise relationship between EFG and the investment entities that are suing him and First Toronto in the southern New York federal courts in a bid to recover their investments. The investors include former EFG Bank & Trust See pg b7

Bran: Baha Mar deal to stay secret if PLP re-elected By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net The Government’s agreement with the China Export-Import Bank for Baha Mar’s construction completion is likely to remain ‘sealed’ by the Supreme Court if the Christie administration retains power, the DNA’s leader said yesterday. Branville McCartney said that only a change of government would ensure that deal “sees the light of day”, promising that a Democratic National Alliance (DNA) administration would move to have the agreement ‘unsealed’. Warning that the agreement had to be “in the best interests of the Bahamian people”, Mr McCartney blasted that if it were otherwise “dog will eat the Chinese lunch”. Some observers will

Says DNA will ensure deal with bank ‘sees the light’ Warns: ‘Better be in best interests of Bahamians’ likely question Mr McCartney’s prospects for becoming elected to office in the upcoming 2017 general election, but the newly-appointed Opposition leader in the Senate blasted: “The Bahamian people have a right to know what is going on with Baha Mar.” Arguing that the country was unlikely to discover the full details if the Christie administration retained power, Mr McCartney said: “It will see the light of day with a new administration. See pg b6

Branville McCartney

Fiscal woe ‘daunting task’ for next Govt By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net The Democratic National Alliance’s (DNA) leader yesterday warned that the next government faces “a daunting task” to arrest the Bahamas’ fiscal decline, suggesting it start with reforming the Finance Ministry and associated agencies. See pg b4

Bran: Finance systems, personnel must be reformed ‘Can’t be business as usual’ in revenue agencies DNA chief ‘very afraid’ of dollar devalue if no change

GB Power: Hurricane recovery plan ‘won’t ‘compromise’ utility By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) last night said it was confident it can recover its $27.5 million storm restoration costs “without compromising” any aspect of its business, provided there is not another Matthew-type hit before 2022. The energy utility, in response to Tribune Business’s questions, said it was still recovering the $27.5 million from its customers - but doing so in a way that will not increase electricity prices beyond their currently level for the next five

Consumers to pay without increase in energy rates Company to ‘mine savings’ in fuel, operations’ Confident if no Matthew-type hit before 2022 years. GB Power explained that, instead, it will “mine savings” from its fuel and operating costs to recover the See pg b8

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, December 20, 2016, PAGE 3

Retailers await Atlantis is targeting ‘Legend-ary’ Xmas Xmas ramp-up By NATARIO McKENZIE Tribune Business Reporter nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

Bahamian retailers yesterday said sales for the Christmas holiday shopping perio d appear to be ramping, with business expected to peak neari the end o f the week. “I wo uld say that we have o ur usual influx o f customers,” said Charmaine Daley, manager at the Jo hns Shoes and Accessories store on Carmichael Ro ad. “It hasn’t really slo wed do wn for us as yet. It’s been steady. We’re anticipating business to pick up in the next co uple o f days, heading into the weekend. Pro bably by Thursday things will really pick up.” Indira Collie, BTC’s spo kesperson, said business for the quad-play pro vider was “go ing quite well” this holiday perio d. Jason Watson, Automotive Industrial Distributors’ (AID) vice-president of operations, told Tribune Business: “So far, sales are significantly better than last December for all categories.” Apart from automotive and outdoor power equipment, the company also sells housewares. Another retailer told Tribune Business: “Business has been steady; not great but it’s been steady. I hope we will get more business as the week goes on. “There are some people who like to wait last minute or need to pick-up an extra something, so I hope we get a bit more business. All things considered, I guess we’re doing OK; a bit better than last year I think.”

Atlantis is eyeing 100 per cent occupancy levels over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday period, one resort executive yesterday saying the scheduled concert by awardwinning singer/songwriter John Legend was “drawing good demand”. Ed Fields, the resort’s spokesperson, told Tribune Business via e-mail: “The property will once again be full for the holiday period. John Legend is drawing good demand.” The award-winning, platinum-selling singer-songwriter is scheduled to perform at Atlantis on December 30. Executives at Comfort Suites, another Paradise Island resort property, told Tribune Business that high occupancy levels were forecast for the Christmas period and into New Year’s weekend. Jermaine Wright, its general manager, said: “We are projected to experience high occupancy during the entire Christmas period, and continue with high occupancy levels as we move into the New Year’s weekend. “In addition, our food and beverage business in Crusoe’s was robust in December, with

Atlantis Resort

Eyes 100% occupancy, as singer ‘draws great demand’ numerous social and business holiday events. The hotel will be hosting a New Year’s Eve event in Crusoe’s to help our guests and the local patrons to bring in 2017 in a festive at-

Prospective candidates are interviewed for BTC’s expanded Door to Door sales team.

BTC adds 100 to boost sales team The Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) has recru ited an extra 100 staff to boost its ‘Door to Door sa les team’. This sa les team, which was formed in 2012, goes directly to customer homes to o ffer a wide range o f BTC pro ducts and services, including Internet and landline phone services. In a survey conducted several months ago, more than 5,000 respondents told BTC that they preferred the door-to-door sales option, due to the convenience and ease o f signing up for new

Ten applicants for every post; 1,000 attend job fair services. Leon Williams, BTC’s chief executive, said: “As a progressive company, we have to keep up with the needs o f o ur customers. We held a jo b fair to find the most energetic and customer-friendly new team members to complement o ur existing ‘ Door to Door sales team’.

“It is important that we continue to meet the needs o f o ur customers, and if that means go ing directly to where they live and work, we’re up for the task. As a result o f the jo b fair last week, we have hired o ver 100 new team members. More than 1,000 persons attended BTC’s Jo b Fair, held on December 13 at the Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union’s (BCPOU) Hall, to fill these new roles. The 100 persons selected are expected to begin training this week.

Paul Engle and Kathy Nitabach

Bradford Marine celebrates its 50th Bradford Marine, the Grand Bahama-based yacht repair business, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. “Our reputation for service, craftsmanship and standing behind our work with a highly-skilled, experienced workforce is the reason we continue to succeed as a company,” said Paul Engle, its president. “Our company has very high employee retention. More than 50 per cent of Bradford Marine’s current workforce has been with the company a decade or longer. “Many have celebrated their 15th, 20th and even 30th anniversaries in providing master-level expertise in paint, carpentry, propeller, and custom-specialty trades. Our experienced workforce works closely together, combining

many trades to bring the very best results and efficiencies, and this translates into value for our customers.” The first haul out at Bradford Marine in 1966 was a then-large yacht named the ‘Fontainebleau’. Since then, the company has worked on yachts of all types and sizes. Its in-house service capabilities include full-service expertise, working on everything from wooden vessels to the latest yachts. Bradford Marine Bahamas began operations in 1997 on a 47-acre site with a 150-ton Travelift. In 2000, the company added a 1,200ton floating dry dock it built to ABS specifications. To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Bradford Marine unveiled a new logo and branding at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

mosphere.” Gary Williams, general manager of the all-inclusive Sandals Royal Bahamian property, told Tribune Business the resort would be running at 70 per cent occupancy at Christmas. But, from December 28, it will be at full occupancy. “Christmas we will be running at about 70 per cent. From December 28 going into

the New Year we’re full,” said Mr Williams. The resort re-opened in late October with nearly 500 staff members following a multimillion dollar makeover that began in mid-August.

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PAGE 4, Tuesday, December 20, 2016

THE TRIBUNE

Minister talks links with Florida county The Minister of Transport and Aviation has visited Florida’s St Lucie County to meet officials and tour its Treasure Coast International Airport, port and city, in an effort to explore agriculture, fisheries and tourism tie-ups. Glenys Hanna Martin told the Florida media that St Lucie County’s airport was poised for major development, with the Bahamas already accounting for the largest percentage of its business. She added that in anticipation of the airport’s development, her visit was to discuss possible links with the Bahamas moving forward, as this could be “an

excellent economic paradigm” for both places. Mrs Hanna-Martin said the Bahamas was “looking at capitalising on, and broadening the existing relationship, to build a strong foundation culturally and economically” with St Lucie. St Lucie county officials said about 90 per cent of their airport’s customs clearance business came from the Bahamas. Chris Dzadovsky, St Lucie county commissioner, said that with the imminent completion of airport renovations, the facility was poised for growth. He added that agriculture was strong in St Lucie, which

Fiscal woe ‘daunting task’ for next Govt From pg B1 Branville McCartney told Tribune Business that it “cannot be business as usual” for both the personnel and systems currently in place at the Ministry of Finance, Public Treasury, Department of Inland Revenue and other revenuecollecting agencies. Implying that the Bahamas was doing the same thing over and over again, yet expecting different results, Mr McCartney said there was little change at these Ministries and departments despite the frequent changes in administrations. Disclosing that he was “very afraid” about the potential devaluation of the Bahamian dollar if present fiscal trends continued, the DNA leader said this nation needed to look for help outside the Government if it was to change course. Reiterating calls for the “best and brightest minds” to become involved, Mr McCartney said the next administration should seek

out private sector expertise and bid to change the culture within the Ministries and departments responsible for its fiscal condition. He added that the numerous high net worth individuals living in the Bahamas as permanent residents provided a ready source of advice and expertise upon which the Government could draw. Speaking after Tribune Business last week revealed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was predicting the 2015-2016 fiscal deficit would be double the Government’s projections, coming in at around $300 million, Mr McCartney said the next government - whoever it was - faced a massive task to stop the continued fiscal bleeding. “It is going to be a very daunting task for the next administration in correcting the public finances,” he told Tribune Business. “We cannot have business as usual with regard to the persons and way we deal with our finances

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that CALVIN JEAN BAPTISTE of #1 South Bahamia, Rose Way, Freeport, Grand Bahama, 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 13th day of December, 2016 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

N O T I C E MD HOLDINGS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED (In Voluntary Liquidation)

also boasts shrimp and tilapia farming. St Lucie County annually hosts the training camp for the New York Mets baseball team, and flights between it and the Bahamas could encourage large numbers of annual visitors from the metropolitan area to also visit this nation. The discussions also noted that flights between St Lucie County and the Bahamas could give Bahamians travelling to Orlando an alternative to current South Florida gateways. Both sides agreed that the commute from the St Lucie airport to Orlando, as well as the traffic and airport congestion, would be much less.

Top row L-R: Nick Mimms, city manager, Fort Pierce; Calvin Turnquest, consultant; Anita Johnson-Patty, general manager, global communications, Ministry of Tourism; Cathy Townsend, St Lucie County Commissioner; Frannie Hutchinson, St Lucie County Commissioner; Ashley Hepburn; director of budget, St Lucie County; Howard Tipton, StLucie county administrator; and Yolanda Cash Jackson, attorney, Becker & Poliakoff.

in this country. We may change governments, but the systems and most of the personnel are still there in terms of the Ministry of Finance, Inland Revenue and the way things are done. “The same people are still there, making the same decisions and causing it to be the way it is now. We cannot continue to do the same old, same old. We are going to have to make sure we get the best minds, the best persons to deal with our finances.’ Asked by Tribune Business whether the next government needed to inject a greater private sector-type culture into its revenue agencies, the newly-appointed Senate Opposition leader said: “Absolutely. We have to . “We cannot keep it the same way. These are the same people, whether it is the FNM or PLP in power, with the same systems that are not working. “We have to change that, and put persons in there with the know-how to make the finances work in our country, putting checks and balances in place, making sure taxes are collected, ensuring money is managed

properly and that there’s no wastage. We keep the same people, same kind of systems in place, it’s not going to work.” The Bahamas’ national debt is continuing to increase towards the $7 billion mark, albeit at a slower pace following Value-Added Tax’s (VAT) implementation. The new tax’s arrival has also helped to reduce the Government’s annual deficits, but by nowhere near as much as projected, indicating that VAT is no fiscal cure-all. Mr McCartney said further reforms were required, and needed to be accompanied by greater fiscal transparency and accountability. This, he added, demanded both Fiscal Responsibility legislation and a Freedom of Information Act. “We need to look at anti-corruption legislation where persons who think they can significantly benefit from corruption are penalised,” Mr McCartney told Tribune Business. With Hurricane Matthew’s damages, and $150 million in emergency government borrowing, likely to ‘blow a hole’ in the projected $100 million deficit

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that ALEX MEDDER of 12360 NW, 29 Monor, Sunrise, Florida, United States 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 20th day of December, 2016 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

N O T I C E PP INTERNATIONAL LIMITED (In Voluntary Liquidation)

for 2016-2017, the DNA leader said the Bahamas needed to harness all available expertise to put its national finances back on track. He suggested such help was already present among the Bahamas’ expatriate and permanent resident community, many of whom had amassed significant wealth for themselves and their families. “Are these not the kind of people we need to be talking to and getting advice from” asked Mr McCartney, “as to how to manage the finances of our country? “We need that. Let’s not fool ourselves. We need to get the best persons, the best minds, and go across party lines - whether they are PLP, FNM, DNA or don’t vote but have the expertise and live here as permanent residents. “We need to talk and do what’s right to fix that. I’m meeting someone tonight who, he and his group, know how to fix finances.” The Opposition Senate leader added that fixing the Government’s finances and the Bahamian economy would be among the next administration’s top priori-

ties after the 2017 general election, whoever it was. “I’m afraid that if we continue on the course we’re on now, we will be talking about the devaluation of the Bahamian dollar,” Mr McCartney told Tribune Business. “I’m afraid, putting it as simply as this, that all those Bahamians looking to go to Miami, that will soon be a dream, because of the dollar’s devaluation. If we continue on this trend, put it like this; you and I will be having this conversation.” He added: “The Government has not lived up to any of its forecasts for the last four-and-a-half years, and that certainly tells us they have not been responsible in their fiscal duties. They are spending uncontrollably. “We need to be prudent and responsible with the people’s money, collect outstanding taxes, ensure proper management of our monies so that we eliminate waste and corruption, and diversify our economy. “We must make sure we use the best and brightest minds, and cross the political divide to deal with the country’s finances.”

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that OMAR ROBERT BRYAN of Faith Avenue, Carmichael Road, P.O Box CB-12854, Nassau, 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 20th day of December, 2016 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, Bahamas.

NOTICE AERO GROUP INVEST LTD. (In Voluntary Liquidation)

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 138(4) of the International Business Companies Act 2000, the abovenamed Company is in dissolution, which commenced on the 13th day of December, 2016. The Liquidator is Windermere Corporate Management Limited, East Bay Street, P.O. Box CR-56766, Suite 1000, Nassau, Bahamas.

WINDERMERE CORPORATE MANAGEMENT LIMITED

Liquidator

Dillon Dean (Liquidator)

N O T I C E PCET LTD. (In Voluntary Liquidation)

N O T I C E FLI INTERNATIONAL LIMITED (In Voluntary Liquidation)

N O T I C E HGC LTD. (In Voluntary Liquidation)

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 138(4) of the International Business Companies Act 2000, the abovenamed Company is in dissolution, which commenced on the 16th day of December 2016. The Liquidator is Windermere Corporate Management Limited, East Bay Street, P.O. Box CR-56766, Suite 1000, Nassau, Bahamas.

WINDERMERE CORPORATE MANAGEMENT LIMITED

Liquidator

Notice is hereby given that, in accordance with Section 138 (4) of The International Business Companies Act 2000 the above-named Company is in dissolution, which commenced on the 14th, day of December 2016. The Liquidator is Dillon Dean of Nassau Bahamas.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, December 20, 2016, PAGE 5

Conference tackles energy ‘challenges’

From banning Styrofoam containers on a planned Exuma resort’s construction site to powering an electric vehicle via a solar power charging station, the Chamber of Commerce’s recent conference sought to offer innovative solutions for the Bahamas’ ongoing woes. “These are very challenging times for the energy sector,” said Chamber chief executive, Edison Sumner. “We must find ways to reduce our reliance on traditional forms of energy.” He added that this reliance, along with a dependence on the Government to get anything done, had resulted in a situation where energy generation was still dependent upon fossil fuels. This was aligned with an antiquated system that is costly, challenging to maintain and unhealthy for the environment. “For a very long time we have been ignoring our own welfare,” said Mr Sumner, addressing business and civic leaders at the Chamber’s third annual energy security conference, hosted in conjunction with the US Embassy and patron sponsor, Commonwealth Bank. “We want to determine the future of the country when it comes to the energy sector, and the impact the cost and quality of energy has on business and on our lives in general.” Looking to the future, speakers emphasised the need to act responsibly but independently. Shaun Ingraham and the One Eleuthera Foundation have purchased a rundown, closed hotel with plans to

transform it into a training centre that has since been internationally accredited. Sixty adult students have graduated with technical and vocational skills, and certification. “With 70 per cent unemployment in Eleuthera, we needed to find ways to stimulate the economy,” said Mr Ingraham. “We got a license and created a credit bureau. We partnered with five primary schools, including The Island School, which is totally off the grid. We got access to the 1.5 tons of trash the schools created and began recycling. We started to crush the glass and turn it into countertops, floors, pavements. The cans went to Nassau for Cans for Kids. The plastic we shipped back to Nassau.” In eight years, the One Eleuthera Foundation has pumped $20 million into the island’s economy, and done so with a shared vision, equipping dozens of Bahamians with badlyneeded skills, providing green jobs and operating with a goal of being economically viable and environmentally friendly. Radiologist Larry Carroll, MD, discovered how important it was to operate without waiting for government to move forward so long as you were within the law. He did it first in organising a group of doctors to operate a private hospital, Doctors Hospital, and more recently - as he neared retirement - in building a seven-room resort in Schooner Bay, Abaco. “The vision for Schooner

Bay presented to me was to have a green, sustainable village based on old village models of years ago,” said Dr Carroll. “The village concept was built around the harbour. Developers preserved the natural flora and fauna, provided geothermal heating and cooling. They built the land up so if there were a storm surge, the run-off would flow into the wetlands. We recycle all our grry matter, maintain the indigenous vegetation.” Now, Dr Carroll is trying to unite the Schooner Bay community to tackle the energy challenge. “We have an hour-long power cut every day,” he added. “If we can de-politicise our thinking and our discussions, and get together, we could put in a solar mini-grid in Cherokee Sound and sustain that community and Schooner Bay, and we would not have to wait for anyone else. We are too dependent on government and we need to just unite and do it ourselves.” Michel Neutelings, project manager for Children’s Bay Cay and Williams Cay in the Exumas, said every aspect of the resort development was being designed to use the latest technology and provide sustainable development. “The waters of the Exumas are among the most pristine in the world, so we have to strike a very careful balance, taking into account the dire need for economic development, sustainability of the environment and wishes of the community,” said Mr Neutelings.

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Edison Sumner

Photo/Donald Knowles

Legal Notice

NOTICE INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COMPANIES ACT (No. 45 of 2000)

Charas International Ltd. In Voluntary liquidation

“Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act (No. 45 of 2000), Charas International Ltd. is in Dissolution.” The date of commencement of dissolution is the 16th day of December, 2016.

ROCKWELL LTD., 25 Mason Complex Stoney Ground, The Valley, British Anguilla Liquidator

NOTICE GARDENIA BLOSSOMS S.A. (In Voluntary Liquidation)

Dillon Dean (Liquidator)

“We will meet with every environmental group and will listen to the community before we put a shovel in the ground.” When construction starts, there will

be a ban on Styrofoam. The energy conference drew nearly 100 persons, with the Deputy Prime Minister, Philip Davis, addressing the luncheon and

advising that the new energy regime would allow power generation - including solar - to tie into the grid as early as the end of January 2017.

PAGE 6, Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Bran: Baha Mar deal to stay secret if PLP re-elected From pg B1 “When we get into government, we will open it up and say what the deal is. The Chinese should be aware of this. In the next six months, when there is a new government, a DNA government, we can rest assured the deal will be unsealed. “The deal had better be in the best interests of the Bahamian people, otherwise dog will eat the Chinese lunch.” Prime Minister Perry Christie promised last

week that he would table the Heads of Agreement between the Government and Baha Mar’s buyer, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE), in the House of Assembly once it was completed and signed. This was designed to counter increasing demands for greater transparency and accountability, not just over Baha Mar but in Bahamian governance generally. However, it is uncertain whether the Christie ad-

ministration - or any successor - will be able to ‘unseal’ the agreement with the China Export-Import Bank. This was made confidential by the Supreme Court upon the request of Baha Mar’s secured creditor, not the Government, and it is unclear whether the latter will be able to request its ‘unsealing’. Mr Christie did not address this question specifically in his House of Assembly address, although the rationale for sealing the construction completion agreement - “to preserve the integrity” of the Baha Mar sales process - appears

COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS

2016 CLE/qui/00074

IN THE SUPREME COURT Common Law and Equity Division

THE MATTER of The Quieting Titles Act, 1959 AND IN THE MATTER of ALL THAT parcel or lot of land being Lot Number Four (4) of Bilney Allotments which said piece parcel or lot of land is bounded NORTHWARDLY by Shirley Street and running thereon Fifty-seven and Fifty-three hundredths (57.53) Feet EASTWARDLY by a portion of Lot Number Three (3) running thereon Seventy-eight and Eighty-six hundredths (78.56) Feet SOUTHWARDLY by Lot Number Thirteen (13) running thereon Fifty-seven and Fifty-three hundredths (57.53) Feet and on the WEST by Bilney Lane running thereon Eighty and Fifty hundredths (80.50) Feet and situated in the Eastern District of the Island of New Providence one of the Islands of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas AND IN THE MATTER of The Amended Petition of Stacey Algreen NOTICE STACEY ALGREEN, the Petitioner, claims to be the owner of the unencumbered in fee simple estate in possession of the piece parcel or lot of land hereinbefore described and has made application to the Supreme Court of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas under Section 3 of the Quieting Titles Act to have the title to the said piece parcel or lot of land investigated and the nature and extent thereof determined and declared in a Certificate of Title to be granted by the Court in accordance with the provisions of the Act. Copies of the Amended Petition and the Plan of the said piece parcel or lot of land may be inspected during normal office hours in the following places:1. The Registry of the Supreme Court in the City of Nassau on the Island of New Providence; and 2. The Chambers of James M. Thompson, Jr., Budget Building, Shirley Park Avenue, Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas. NOTICE is hereby given that any person having dower or right to dower or an Adverse Claim or a claim not recognized in the Amended Petition shall on or before the expiration of Thirty (30) days after final publication of these presents, file in the Supreme Court and service on the Petitioner or the undersigned a statement of his claim in the prescribed form verified by Affidavit to be filed therewith. Failure of any such person to file and serve a statement of his claim on or before the expiration of the Thirty (30) days after final publication of these presents will operate as a bar to such claim. Dated the 6th.. day of , December, A.D., 2016.

James M. Thompson, Jr. Counsel & Attorney-at-Law Budget Building Shirley Park Avenue Nassau N.P., The Bahamas Attorney for the Petitioner

A PRIVATE BANKING INSTITUTION is looking for a

Credit Manager Core Responsibilities The credit manager position is accountable for the entire credit granting process, including the consistent application of a credit policy, periodic credit reviews of existing customers, and the assessment of the creditworthiness of potential customers, with the goal of optimizing the mix of company sales and bad debt losses. • • • • • •

Oversee the lending process of the bank, including the initial application review, underwriting and the disbursal or denial of the request. Determine the interest rate, loan term and maximum dollar amount the bank is able to offer. Monitor the repayment progress and lead collections initiatives for delinquent accounts Maintain the corporate credit policy and recommend changes to senior management Create a credit scoring model Manage customer credit files

Reports to the COO The position is open to candidates who match the following profile: • Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, economics, accounting or business • Minimum 5-7 years of credit experience in a similar role • Possess strong analytical and mathematical skills to review applications and make appropriate credit decisions based on the risk level • Thorough knowledge of credit-related laws. • Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with customers and co-workers • Ability to work under pressure • Ability to work Independently • Flexibility in office hours and hands-on approach when required • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Interested persons should submit their curriculum vitae along with a cover letter by November 30tiest, 2016 addressed to:

Private & Confidential Senior Credit Officer c/o The Tribune Box P.O.Box N-3207 Nassau, Bahamas

Only those candidates meeting the above criteria will be contacted for an interview.

to have been rendered invalid with CTFE’s selection as the purchaser. However, Mr McCartney argued that the hundreds of Chinese workers arriving in the Bahamas to work on Baha Mar made it even more imperative for the Government to disclose the agreement with China Export-Import Bank. “The Government needs to indicate to the Bahamian people how many Chinese are coming here for their jobs,” he told Tribune Business. “The Government is effectively saying that the Chinese do not want to unseal the deal. No other country, especially a communist country, tells me what to do when I work on behalf of the Bahamian people. “The Chinese have infiltrated into the democracy of the Bahamas, and have got their feet on the Government’s necks. That’s exactly what has happened.” The new Opposition Senate leader said that given that the Government petitioned for Baha Mar’s winding-up and the ouster of original developer, Sarkis Izmirlian, the Bahamian people had a right to know what had been done on their behalf. Pointing to the $1 billionplus investment incentives granted to Mr Izmirlian, and the involvement of Crown and Treasury land, Mr McCartney added: “We, the Bahamian people, have been shut out of the transaction and told it’s none of

our business. “We’re not going to tell you the real deal. That is what the Government is saying, when they said fourand-a-half years ago that they believed in Bahamians.” Mr McCartney said Bahamians “need to take what this Prime Minister says with a grain of salt” in relation to Baha Mar, pointing out that Mr Christie had given an April 2017 and jobs figures despite there being no completed Heads of Agreement. The DNA leader said this meant that either the Heads of Agreement was completed and should be disclosed; that the CTFE purchase was a ‘done deal’ and going through the motions, or that Mr Christie’s statement was premature. Meanwhile, creditors of the seven former Baha Mar companies now in full liquidation under Supreme Court supervision met with the liquidators yesterday at the Melia Nassau Beach resort. Tribune Business understands that the three liquidators, Bahamian accountant, Ed Rahming, and Nicholas Cropper and Alastair Beveridge, his UK counterparts, took creditors through progress todate and how the process will proceed, before holding a question and answer session. Very few Baha Mar creditors are now left, after former Bahamian employee, vendor and contractor claims were paid out by

Sir Franklyn ‘shock’ at gas pump rip-off claim From pg B1 there was no mention of the gas stations and companies where consumers were not receiving the volume of gasoline they were paying for. Disclosing the Bureau’s ‘rip-off’ findings, she said an inspection of fuel stations by the Bureau had found only half of the pumps measured volumes accurately. “What we had found is that 50 per cent of the

pumps were actually accurate. When inspectors when out to the pumps and, let’s say, they inspected four, only two were found to be in compliance with what is required,” Dr FergusonBufford said. “We have three major service providers, and we’re talking about all of them; we’re not targeting one over the other. We found issues with all of them. We have work to do. We found defi-

THE TRIBUNE the China Export-Import Bank’s Perfect Luck Claims vehicle, and the liquidators previously made it clear that those who elected not to participate in this process will not recover a single cent. This is because Deloitte & Touche, in their capacity as receivers, have ‘sold’ or transferred all Baha Mar’s remaining assets to the China Export-Import Bank’s special purpose vehicle (SPV), Perfect Luck Holdings. And, even after taking possession of all these assets, the China Export-Import Bank will not recover its $2.45 billion outlay via the sale to CTFE. Tribune Business understands that the number of creditors present yesterday was in the ‘low double digits’, and that among them was the China Export-Import Bank and Mr Izmirlian’s Granite Ventures vehicle. “Granite Ventures was there and represented its views during the meeting,” one source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Tribune Business. This newspaper understands that the liquidators are aiming to complete the winding-up process in early 2017. The seven companies in full liquidation are Baha Mar Ltd, Baha Mar Land Holdings, Baha Mar Enterprises, Baha Mar Properties, BMP Golf, BMP Three and Cable Beach Resorts. ciencies. “We spoke to them, and they got their technicians to deal with the issue right away. You should get what you pay for.” The Bahamas has three major fuel providers - Sol Petroleum/Esso (Bahamas); Rubis/Texaco (Bahamas) and Freeport Oil Company (FOCOL)/ Shell. The oil/gasoline industry has subsequently been tightlipped on the Bureau’s findings, with retail dealers contacted by Tribune Business referring this newspaper to their supplier head offices.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, December 20, 2016, PAGE 7

Chinese fraud suit alleges Bahamas bank ‘conflicted’ From pg B1 (Bahamas) managing director, Steven Mackey, who Tribune Business previously revealed is alleging that he was defrauded of more than $200,000 by Leung over Project Ningbo. The other investors, all corporate entities and Bahamas-domiciled, are Taupita Investment, Segue Corporation and Urbacon Buildings Group Corporation. Leung is alleging that at least one, Taupita, is a front for, and is owned and controlled, by EFG Bank & Trust (Bahamas). It was used, he claims, to acquire the investment in Cathexis that was owned by another of its clients, Lawrence Wosskow. “At the meeting held in the Bahamas in November 2013, EFG advised Leung that it intended to acquire the note held by Lawrence Wosskow for its own account. EFG identified Taupita as the proposed transferee from Wosskow only after that meeting,” Leung alleged. “On information and belief, Taupita is a nominee for EFG itself. On information and belief, EFG and not Taupita was the source of funds for purchasing the investment position of Wosskow in his Cathexis note. “On information and belief, the decision to acquire Wosskow’s position was made by EFG and not Taupita. On information and belief, EFG paid Wosskow for his investment position several months prior to November 2013.”

Leung is further claiming that EFG did not execute a formal placement agreement with Cathexis, which he described as “contrary to customary and usual practices involving private placements to be governed by New York law”. He alleged that e-mails between the Bahamian bank and Cathexis formed the basis of an arrangement where EFG would receive a placement fee of $112,500, or 3 per cent, of the total $3.75 million placement. Leung is seeking to ‘turn the tables’ on EFG Bank & Trust (Bahamas) via his amended complaint, filed on December 9, 2016, in which he is suing the bank for alleged ‘breach of contract’ and ‘induced breach of contract’. He is effectively claiming that the Bahamian bank “communicated assurances” to Project Ningbo investors that were different or “contradictory” to those provided by Cathexis in the offering document. As a result, Leung is alleging that EFG’s purported ‘misrepresentations’ have resulted in the investor lawsuits against him and, as a result, the bank has caused him more than $100,000 in damages as a result of having to defend their actions. “By way of example, the second amended complaint [against Leung and First Toronto] alleges that Leung ‘represented’ that the notes were without risk or had little risk,” Leung alleged. “The Note Purchase Agreement contains, to the contrary, the purchaser’s warranty in Paragraph 2(b)

(iv) that ‘the purchaser understands that the purchaser’s investment in the note is speculative and involves an extremely high degree of risk’.” Leung also claimed that EFG advised the investors not to take action against Cathexis, but that instead “their most likely source of prompt payment would be to put pressure on Leung by suing him”. Leung’s claims, not surprisingly, prompted a scornful, dismissive response from EFG Bank & Trust (Bahamas), arguing that he was seeking to place blame for “the damages flowing from his fraud” on the bank. Arguing that there was “extremely strong evidence of fraud”, EFG alleged: “Leung and his entity have attempted every possible manoeuvre to escape their obligations relative to Leung’s apparent fraud and the unreturned funds. “These manoeuvres include arguing that plaintiffs, who invested in this Chinese project, are not even permitted to sue those that perpetrated a fraud upon them (Leung) - an, of course, preposterous notion. “Leung and his entity, through their claims against EFG, now attempt to further avoid their liability. They argue that EFG is somehow responsible to indemnify them for any fraud judgment entered against them and the attorney’s fees they incur in defending against the fraud lawsuit even if found culpable. “Leung, in short, argues that, even if a jury finds that he committed fraud, EFG (not him—the actual fraudster) should be responsible for the damages flowing from his fraud.”

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WHERE HIT MUSIC LIVES W W W .

1 0 0 J A M Z

. C O M

@100JAMZ242

NOTICE International Business Companies Act No.45 of 2000 WB Investment Fund Ltd. (the “Company”) Notice is hereby given that, in accordance with Section 138 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, No.45 of 2000, the Dissolution of WB Investment Fund Ltd. has been completed, a Certificate of Dissolution has been issued and the Company has therefore been struck off the Register. The date of completion of the dissolution was the 9th day of December, 2016.

MARKET REPORT MONDAY, 19 DECEMBER 2016

t. 242.323.2330 | f. 242.323.2320 | www.bisxbahamas.com

BISX ALL SHARE INDEX: CLOSE 1,933.50 | CHG 0.45 | %CHG 0.02 | YTD 109.55 | YTD% 6.01 BISX LISTED & TRADED SECURITIES 52WK HI 4.25 17.43 9.09 3.55 4.70 0.12 8.23 8.50 6.10 10.60 15.50 2.72 1.60 5.82 9.30 11.00 9.00 6.90 12.25 11.00

52WK LOW 2.50 17.43 8.19 3.50 1.77 0.12 5.50 8.05 5.50 7.67 12.59 2.18 1.31 5.60 6.60 8.56 6.12 6.35 11.81 10.00

1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00

900.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00

PREFERENCE SHARES

1.00 106.00 100.00 106.00 105.00 105.00 100.00 10.00 1.01

1.00 105.50 100.00 100.00 105.00 100.00 100.00 10.00 1.01

SECURITY AML Foods Limited APD Limited Bahamas Property Fund Bahamas Waste Bank of Bahamas Benchmark Cable Bahamas CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank Colina Holdings Commonwealth Bank Commonwealth Brewery Consolidated Water BDRs Doctor's Hospital Famguard Fidelity Bank Finco Focol ICD Utilities J. S. Johnson Premier Real Estate Cable Bahamas Series 6 Cable Bahamas Series 8 Cable Bahamas Series 9 Cable Bahamas Series 10 Colina Holdings Class A Commonwealth Bank Class E Commonwealth Bank Class J Commonwealth Bank Class K Commonwealth Bank Class L Commonwealth Bank Class M Commonwealth Bank Class N Fidelity Bank Class A Focol Class B

CORPORATE DEBT - (percentage pricing) 52WK HI 100.00 100.00 100.00

52WK LOW 100.00 100.00 100.00

SYMBOL AML APD BPF BWL BOB BBL CAB CIB CHL CBL CBB CWCB DHS FAM FBB FIN FCL ICD JSJ PRE CAB6 CAB8 CAB9 CAB10 CHLA CBLE CBLJ CBLK CBLL CBLM CBLN FBBA FCLB

SECURITY Fidelity Bank Note 17 (Series A) + Fidelity Bank Note 18 (Series E) + Fidelity Bank Note 22 (Series B) +

SYMBOL FBB17 FBB18 FBB22

Bahamas Note 6.95 (2029) BGS: 2014-12-3Y BGS: 2015-1-3Y BGS: 2014-12-5Y BGS: 2015-1-5Y BGS: 2014-12-7Y BGS: 2015-1-7Y BGS: 2014-12-30Y BGS: 2015-1-30Y BGS: 2015-6-3Y BGS: 2015-6-5Y BGS: 2015-6-7Y BGS: 2015-6-30Y BGS: 2015-10-3Y BGS: 2015-10-5Y BGS: 2015-10-7Y

BAH29 BG0103 BG0203 BG0105 BG0205 BG0107 BG0207 BG0130 BG0230 BG0303 BG0305 BG0307 BG0330 BG0403 BG0405 BG0407

BAHAMAS GOVERNMENT STOCK - (percentage pricing)

Luciane Ribeiro Moreno Liquidator NOTICE International Business Companies Act No.45 of 2000 JLBN Investment Fund Ltd. (the “Company”) Notice is hereby given that, in accordance with Section 138 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, No.45 of 2000, the Dissolution of JLBN Investment Fund Ltd. has been completed, a Certificate of Dissolution has been issued and the Company has therefore been struck off the Register. The date of completion of the dissolution was the 9th day of December, 2016.

Luciane Ribeiro Moreno Liquidator

115.92 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

113.70 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

MUTUAL FUNDS 52WK HI 2.01 3.91 1.93 169.70 140.34 1.45 1.67 1.56 1.09 6.94 8.65 5.92 9.94 11.15 10.46

52WK LOW 1.67 3.04 1.68 164.74 116.70 1.40 1.61 1.50 1.03 6.41 7.62 5.66 8.65 10.54 9.57

LAST CLOSE 4.06 15.85 9.09 3.52 1.77 0.12 5.60 8.50 5.83 10.38 13.23 2.13 1.60 5.82 9.30 10.95 8.74 6.75 11.93 10.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 10.00 1.01 LAST SALE 100.00 100.00 100.00 108.92 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

CLOSE 4.06 15.85 9.09 3.52 1.77 0.12 5.60 8.50 5.83 10.39 13.23 2.16 1.60 5.82 9.30 10.95 8.74 6.75 11.93 10.00

CHANGE 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1.00 100.00 100.00 100.11 100.00 100.00 100.00 10.00 1.01

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

CLOSE 100.00 100.00 100.00

CHANGE 0.00 0.00 0.00

108.83 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

-0.09 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

FUND CFAL Bond Fund CFAL Balanced Fund CFAL Money Market Fund CFAL Global Bond Fund CFAL Global Equity Fund FG Financial Preferred Income Fund FG Financial Growth Fund FG Financial Diversified Fund FG Financial Global USD Bond Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Secured Balanced Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Targeted Equity Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Prime Income Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - Equities Sub Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - High Yield Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - Alternative Strategies Fund

VOLUME

12,000

VOLUME

NAV 2.01 3.90 1.93 169.70 140.34 1.45 1.67 1.56 1.09 6.94 8.65 5.92 9.59 11.15 9.57

EPS$ 0.304 1.351 1.086 0.220 -1.134 0.000 0.185 0.551 0.508 0.541 0.528 0.094 0.166 0.510 0.612 0.960 0.650 0.703 0.756 0.000

DIV$ 0.090 1.000 0.000 0.160 0.000 0.000 0.187 0.260 0.200 0.360 0.610 0.060 0.040 0.240 0.275 0.000 0.280 0.120 0.640 0.000

P/E 13.4 11.7 8.4 16.0 N/M N/M 30.3 15.4 11.5 19.2 25.1 23.0 9.6 11.4 15.2 11.4 13.4 9.6 15.8 0.0

YIELD 2.22% 6.31% 0.00% 4.55% 0.00% 0.00% 3.34% 3.06% 3.43% 3.46% 4.61% 2.78% 2.50% 4.12% 2.96% 0.00% 3.20% 1.78% 5.36% 0.00%

0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 6.25% 7.00% 6.50%

INTEREST 7.00% 6.00% Prime + 1.75%

MATURITY 19-Oct-2017 31-May-2018 19-Oct-2022

6.95% 4.00% 4.00% 4.25% 4.25% 4.50% 4.50% 6.25% 6.25% 4.00% 4.25% 4.50% 6.25% 3.50% 3.88% 4.25%

20-Nov-2029 15-Dec-2017 30-Jul-2018 16-Dec-2019 30-Jul-2020 15-Dec-2021 30-Jul-2022 15-Dec-2044 30-Jul-2045 26-Jun-2018 26-Jun-2020 26-Jun-2022 26-Jun-2045 15-Oct-2018 15-Oct-2020 15-Oct-2022

YTD% 12 MTH% 3.11% 4.17% 3.28% 4.34% 2.07% 2.93% 4.73% 5.64% 5.70% 7.66% 2.86% 3.86% 2.64% 3.93% 2.51% 3.63% 5.44% 4.48% 4.05% 8.28% 5.93% 13.53% 2.73% 4.73% 3.97% -3.53% 2.96% 4.33% -4.26% -6.22%

NAV Date 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 30-Sep-2016 31-Jul-2016 31-Jul-2016 31-Jul-2016 31-Jul-2016 31-Jul-2016 31-Jul-2016

MARKET TERMS BISX ALL SHARE INDEX - 19 Dec 02 = 1,000.00 52wk-Hi - Highest closing price in last 52 weeks 52wk-Low - Lowest closing price in last 52 weeks Previous Close - Previous day's weighted price for daily volume Today's Close - Current day's weighted price for daily volume Change - Change in closing price from day to day Daily Vol. - Number of total shares traded today DIV $ - Dividends per share paid in the last 12 months P/E - Closing price divided by the last 12 month earnings

YIELD - last 12 month dividends divided by closing price Bid $ - Buying price of Colina and Fidelity Ask $ - Selling price of Colina and fidelity Last Price - Last traded over-the-counter price Weekly Vol. - Trading volume of the prior week EPS $ - A company's reported earnings per share for the last 12 mths NAV - Net Asset Value N/M - Not Meaningful

TO TRADE CALL: CFAL 242-502-7010 | ROYALFIDELITY 242-356-7764 | FG CAPITAL MARKETS 242-396-4000 | COLONIAL 242-502-7525 | LENO 242-396-3225

PAGE 8, Tuesday, December 20, 2016

GB Power: Hurricane recovery plan ‘won’t ‘compromise’ utility From pg B1 rebuilding of its island-wide transmission and distribution network in the Category Four storm’s wake. “We haven’t ‘changed our plan’ – we will recover the restoration cost from customers,” the utility said. “But we will do it in a way that results in no increase to the cost of electricity that customers enjoy today. “That is the challenge

that we have been presented with, and we are confident it can be done. We are committing to hold rates steady for five years and, during this period, mine savings out of our operating costs and fuel expense to offset the hurricane costs we need to recover.” Restoration costs will be included in the ‘Fuel/Other Costs’ portion of customers’ bills starting in January

2017, and are scheduled to be fully recovered by January 2022. GB Power said its plans depended on Grand Bahama, and its network infrastructure, not having to cope with another hurricane of Matthew’s power before 2022. “Provided we do not get hit by another natural disaster the size of Matthew, we are confident we will fully recover the restoration expense over the fiveyear period that we are holding electricity prices flat - without compromising our commitment to a safe workplace, a fair wage, and/ or reliable electricity,” GB

Power said. “We will mine the savings out of other parts of our business – most notably operating cost savings, and savings in fuel brought about through our purchasing strategy, improved unit efficiency, and optimised dispatch of our generating assets. “When Emera purchased GB Power several years ago, our plan was first to improve reliability, then to stabilise rates, and finally to invest in renewables. We are now acting on the second phase of that three-phase plan – we are staying the course despite having been unexpectedly knocked off

THE TRIBUNE

balance by Hurricane Matthew.” GB Power added that it had decided to delay implementation of its Hurricane Self-Insurance Fund, a device that would defray future hurricane repair costs, on the grounds that it was “not the ideal time to increase customers’ cost of electricity” in Matthew’s wake. “We believe this is welcome news to the business community, to potential investors in Grand Bahama, and to residents who may be struggling to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Matthew,” said Archie Collins, GB Power’s presi-

dent and chief executive, of the cost recovery plan. “We want our customers to know that we are taking concrete steps toward longterm rate stability, while improving service and strengthening our grid,” said Tony Lopez, GB Power’s chief financial officer. “Over the past five years, we have worked hard to reduce our cost structure through operational efficiencies, implementation of a fuel hedging programme and effective workforce planning. These efforts support the long-term rate stability commitment we are making today.”

Big dividend payers lead indexes higher in quiet trading NEW YORK (AP) — With the Christmas holiday and the end of 2016 coming into view, U.S. stocks edged higher Monday as bond yields dropped and investors who sought income moved money into phone company and real estate stocks. Technology and industrial companies rose, while energy companies skidded and health care stocks continued to lag the rest of the market. Disney climbed after a strong opening weekend for “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” its second movie in the revived “Star Wars” franchise. Trading volume was the lowest since mid-October, except for the abbreviated trading session after the Thanksgiving holiday. Stocks were on track for larger gains early in the day and the Nasdaq was briefly on pace for a record high, but investor enthusiasm waned by the afternoon. David Lefkowitz, sen-

ior equity strategist at UBS Wealth Management Americas, said that stocks have surged since the presidential election and investors might be more cautious in the weeks to come as they wait for details of Presidentelect Donald Trump’s policy agenda. “We’re going to have to move from the grand vision of things to actually getting some of these policies done,” he said. Bond yields have surged to multi-year highs in recent days, but they moved lower Monday. That helped companies that pay large dividends, as they are often compared to bonds and are more appealing to investors when yields fall. The Dow Jones industrial average rose 39.65 points, or 0.2 percent, to 19,883.06. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index gained 4.46 points, or 0.2 percent, to 2,262.53. The Nasdaq composite added 20.28 points, or 0.4 percent,

to 5,457.44. The Russell 2000 index of small-company stocks rose 7.49 points, or 0.5 percent, to 1,371.68. Bond prices rose. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note slid to 2.54 percent from 2.60 percent late Friday. That sent interest rates lower and affects the profits banks make from mortgages and other loans. Bank stocks lagged the market. Income-seeking investors turned their attention to groups of stocks that pay large dividends, similar to bonds. That sparked gains for real estate, phone and utility companies. Health care facility investor HCP gained $1.16, or 4 percent, to $30.30 and power company NRG Energy rose 55 cents, or 4.5 percent, to $12.85. Government bond yields have climbed over the last few months and have jumped since the election. Last week the yield on the 10-year note rose to its highest level in more than two years.

the American flag flies above the Wall Street entrance to the New York Stock Exchange. U.S. stocks are higher yesterday, morning as technology and industrial companies trade higher. (AP Photo)

Both technology and industrial stocks are trading around all-time highs and continued to rise Monday. Microsoft added $1.32, or 2.1 percent, to $63.62 and software maker Adobe advanced $1.74, or 1.7 percent, to $105.29. Industrial companies also did better than the broader market. Boeing rose $1.68, or 1.1 percent, to $156.18. United Technologies, which makes elevators,

jet engines and other products, picked up $2.30, or 2.1 percent, to $110.82. Crude oil inched up 22 cents to $52.12 a barrel in New York. Brent crude, the international standard, gave up 29 cents to $54.92 a barrel in London. Energy companies took small losses. They’re trading at their highest prices in about 18 months after a big six-week rally. Noble Energy lost 91 cents, or 2.2 percent, to $40.25 and

Baker Hughes skidded 66 cents, or 1 percent, to $65.73. Disney climbed after “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” brought in an estimated $155 million in worldwide ticket sales in its first weekend. That was better than expected and the second-best December movie opening ever, after “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” last year. Disney rose $1.39, or 1.3 percent, to $105.30.

SERNA TRADING & INVESTMENT LTD. Company No. 356469 (In Voluntary Liquidation)

SOWA ESTATE LTD. Company No. 1733441 (In Voluntary Liquidation)

MARO ASSOCIATES LTD. Company No. 1863958 (In Voluntary Liquidation)

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 204 (1)(b) of the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 that SERNA TRADING & INVESTMENT LTD. is in voluntary liquidation. The voluntary liquidation commenced on 15th December, 2016 and NICOLAS MÜLLER of Talstrasse 83, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland has been appointed as the Sole Liquidator.

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 204 (1)(b) of the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 that SOWA ESTATE LTD. is in voluntary liquidation. The voluntary liquidation commenced on15th December, 2016 and JACQUELINE MEIER of Stockerstrasse 4, 8810 Horgen, Switzerland has been appointed as the Sole Liquidator.

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 204 (1)(b) of the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 that MARO ASSOCIATES LTD. is in voluntary liquidation. The voluntary liquidation commenced on 15th December, 2016 and MARCO RINGGER of Marbachweg 4, 8800 Thalwil, Switzerland has been appointed as the Sole Liquidator.

Dated this 16th day of December, 2016 Sgd. NICOLAS MÜLLER Voluntary Liquidator

Dated this 16th day of December, 2016 Sgd. JACQUELINE MEIER Voluntary Liquidator

Dated this 16th day of December, 2016 Sgd. MARCO RINGGER Voluntary Liquidator

VSL SHIPPING LTD. Company No. 682583 (In Voluntary Liquidation)

NOTICE CONSERVATIVE ASSETS LIMITED In Voluntary Liquidation

NOTICE A GAUCHE LIMITED In Voluntary Liquidation

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 204 (1)(b) of the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 that VSL SHIPPING LTD. is in voluntary liquidation. The voluntary liquidation commenced on 15th December, 2016 and MONIKA SUTER of Tödiweg 6, 8802 Kilchberg, Switzerland has been appointed as the Sole Liquidator.

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 138(4) of the International Business Companies Act. 2000, CONSERVATIVE ASSETS LIMITED is in dissolution as of December 16th, 2016.

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 138(4) of the International Business Companies Act. 2000, A GAUCHE LIMITED is in dissolution as of December 16th, 2016.

International Liquidator Services Inc. situated at 3rd Floor Withfield Tower, 4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize is the Liquidator.

Dated this 16th day of December, 2016 Sgd. MONIKA SUTER Voluntary Liquidator

LIQUIDATOR ______________________

VELIKA ASSOCIATED S.A. Company No. 1689127 (In Voluntary Liquidation)

GUIDELINE CORPORATION Company No. 112345 (In Voluntary Liquidation)

NOTICE CARDIGAN INVEST S.A. In Voluntary Liquidation

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 204 (1)(b) of the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 that VELIKA ASSOCIATED S.A. is in voluntary liquidation. The voluntary liquidation commenced on 9th December, 2016 and TAMARA SCHLÄPFER of Hungerstrasse 47, 8832 Wilen b. Wollerau, Switzerland has been appointed as the Sole Liquidator.

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 204 (1)(b) of the BVI Business Companies Act, 2004 that GUIDELINE CORPORATION is in voluntary liquidation. The voluntary liquidation commenced on 15th December, 2016 and ALAIN GASS of Im Langacker 2, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland has been appointed as the Sole Liquidator.

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 138(4) of the International Business Companies Act. 2000, CARDIGAN INVEST S.A. is in dissolution as of December 16th, 2016.

Dated this 16th day of December, 2016 Sgd. TAMARA SCHLÄPFER Voluntary Liquidator

Dated this 16th day of December, 2016 Sgd. ALAIN GASS Voluntary Liquidator

International Liquidator Services Inc. situated at 3rd Floor Withfield Tower, 4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize is the Liquidator. LIQUIDATOR ______________________

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, December 20, 2016, PAGE 9

b o dy and m ind

Caring for your hair By ALESHA CADET

acadet@tribunemedia.net

Tara Miller talks hair loss, weaves and the overuse of gel

n the way that your manicurist is there to take care of your nails and your dermatologist is there to take care of your skin, Tara Miller is there to make sure your hair remains nice and healthy. A hair stylist with more than 16 years experience in the business, she is especially dedicated to managing hair loss in women. The owner of the Metamorphosis Beauty Salon on Jerome Avenue, Ms Miller said that beyond staying upto-date with the latest style trends, it is important to be educated on the newest developments in hair care. “In the Bahamas we have a lot of women with thinning along the sides and crown of the head, and most of the time after a consultation the most common reason is because they were wearing a weave for too long without taking a break in between weaves,” she explained. “A weave should be worn no longer than two months at a time, after which you should go through the necessary regimen – whether a relaxer and treatment or just a treatment – then you should give you hair a two-week break, and then if you wish, you can have it weaved over.” She believes it is important for women to know that

having your hair weaved on the same day you have received a fresh relaxer is a bad idea, as your hair is in a weakened state due to the relaxer. “To put the stress of a weave on top of that is bound to cause damage. What you can do is relax the perimeter of the hair that is going to be left out and not the section that is going to be weaved, to alleviate the problem, hence having your smooth sides but still protecting the hair that is weaved,” she said. “Also, weaving too tight can cause traction alopecia. This happens when the braid or hair is detached or torn from the scalp and you would see little white bulbs at the root of the hair shaft, leaving a bald spot where the hair should be.” At her Metamorphosis Salon, Ms Miller said they offer treatment for this problem. Clients with hair loss problems are also urged to not wear weaves until their scalps and hair have fully recovered. “This can be a daunting task because they have become one with the weave and sometimes they are upset, but when they see the results it’s all worth it. Hair care is always my first priority. I can honestly say I love what I do, and in order to be one of the best you have to educate yourself,” she said.

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Ms Miller’s original career plan could not have been farther from her current occupation. She initially wanted to pursue a degree in cardiovascular technology, but hair styling was a talent she could not run away from, especially after receiving a push in the right direction from her sister Vernencha Forbes. After receiving a cosmetology diploma from the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), Ms Miller later underwent advanced training at Dudley’s Cosmetology University in North Carolina and then went on to study at the headquarters of Ashtae, a hair care company created for African-American, Hispanic, and mixed hair textures. After completing her training with Ashtae in Greenboro, North Carolina, she became an educator with the company. “Teaching classes at their headquarters as well as at Bronner Brothers in Atlanta and of course here at home with Renea Johnson at the RACA (Renea’s Advance Cosmetology Academy) solidified what I was able to do. I am also a freelance hairstylist where I am contracted for services outside of the salon such as an engagement session, commercial photography session, advertisements and

Tara Miller, owner of the Metamorphosis Beauty Salon branding, weddings, or for groups and organisations. I pride myself on being able to cater to a variety of clients from short to long relaxed, natural and every type/texture,” said Ms Miller. And even after so many years in the field, she still enjoys the work. Her clients, she said, allow her the opportunity to be creative and transform them into the vision they have for themselves.“It’s something about the way they smile and the boost of confidence

they gain that reminds me that I’m good at what I do. It doesn’t feel like it, but it’s been 16 years in the business, and honestly, every year feels like the first year, as there’s always new trends and I pride myself on being up-to-date to meet my clients needs and exceed their expectations,” said Tara. Offering hair care tips to readers, Ms Miller spoke about using spritz and gel – the two most common products teenagers use. She said most of them have a tendency to soak the hair

with spritz then curl it with a curling iron that is more than likely too hot – an overall bad idea. “While curling the hair you would here a sizzling sound or your hair might stick to the curler, or even worse, when you remove the curler from your head the hair is still attached to it. If you have experienced any of these situations you more than likely have a head full of damaged hair. The next product you ladies overuse is gel. Applying gel on your hair today, then adding more tomorrow, then two days later you want to change your hairstyle so what do you do? Comb or brush the gel out. This causes breakage and can also lead to thinning edges. Remember, your hair is your beauty, take care of it,” she said. Ms Miller said it is also important to adhere to daily hair care routines such as sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase to prevent frizz, breakage and dryness. “Cotton pillowcases tend to snag hair and create splits and tears. They also tend to suck the moisture out of your hair, which can make it even more frizzy and brittle at the ends.” On top of that she said it is also important to always moisturise hair ends.

Giving with love By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net EVEN if only for one day, the local chapter of #HashtagLunchbag wanted to do their best to make at least a small dent in the Bahamas’ hunger problem. To achieve this, the organisation distributed more than 1,000 lunch bags to those in need. The volunteers came together last Saturday at Mario’s Bowling and Entertainment Palace to assemble the bags of food and finish them off with notes of love and support. The Bahamian #HashtagLunchbag group, which was founded by Lincoln Deal II, is dedicated to empowering and inspiring humanity through simple acts of kindness. The act of kindness that is the driving

Local charity prepares lunch bags for the needy force behind the organisation is preparing lunch bags and distributing them. “The brown bags we used for HLB were designed with love. We view the messages that are written on the bags as an opportunity for us to brighten up someone’s day. We included positive messages and motivational quotes to make them feel acknowledged. A simple note saying, ‘God loves you’ or ‘You’re beautiful’ can mean the world to many people,” said Mr Deal. “The messages we share are one of the most important aspect of what we do.”

The #HashtagLunchbag movement was started on Christmas Eve 2015 in Los Angeles, when a group of friends who were having trouble finding a way to give back began looking for anyone that could use a meal. Mr Deal said given the origins of the movement, the Bahamian chapter would have been remiss if they had not hosted a charitable event this holiday season. “Christmas is coined as a season of giving. For that reason it was essential to go into the communities and express our love through the preparation and distribution of lunch bags. It gave people the opportunity to give a gift to strangers,” said Mr Deal. He told Tribune Health that the event surpassed expectations and they are very appreciative of the support from all the volunteers.

Members of the #HashtagLunchbag group prepared sandwiches with love for those in need. “Each time we get together for HLB we meet new volunteers who have seen the good in what we do. We use social media as our primary platform to encourage others to spread love. As we prepared the lunch bags, we laughed, we danced and we came together,” said Mr

Deal. “The love everyone felt within was just as important as the smiles on the faces of the unsuspecting people we shared with. The expectations were shattered this weekend.” With a new year about to start, Mr Deal said his or-

ganisation plans to continue to serve the community in an extraordinary way, but with even greater goals in mind. “We intend to set the bar higher than ever before, go into more communities and touch more hearts than ever before,” he said.

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Mothers celebrate breastfeeding By Felicity Ingraham The Bahamas National Breastfeeding Association closed out its year of activities with a Breastfeeding and Parent Craft graduation ceremony, where mothers were honoured for completing weeks of training to help them become better parents. As simple as breastfeeding may seem, there are a myriad of reasons why mothers give up and do not breastfeed their children. The BNBA sought to decrease the amount of mothers who give their babies formula by providing classes. In addition to advice on breastfeeding, those attending the course shared lessons they learned on how to better plan families, how to become better parents, and other important life skills. Minister of Transport and Aviation Glenys Han-

Karen Miller (second from left), who completed the course for the sake of her two sons, attends the breastfeeding graduation ceremony. Also pictured are Minister of Transport of Aviation Glenys Hanna-Martin (second from right) and members of the BNBA. na-Martin gave the closing address at the graduation ceremony, congratulating the mothers who consid-

ered the classes important enough to attend through to completion.

She also applauded them for doing their part in decreasing the rate of violent crime and social ills in the

country, simply by making the right decision from day one – putting the baby to the breast. Mrs Hanna-Martin pointed out that the stigma attached to mothers who breastfeed in public must be eradicated and be replaced by encouragement and support. No amount of formula, she said, could replace the love, bonding and health benefits derived from breastfeeding. The graduation ceremony, held at the South Beach Clinic, brought together many mothers of all ages who became friends while attending the classes together at the various government clinics throughout New Providence. Many of the mothers breastfed throughout the ceremony, and three of them took to the podium to share their pleasurable experiences with breastfeeding.

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One of the mothers had a baby born sick; although he spent a month in the hospital before going home, the mother pumped milk and took it to the hospital for him every day. She said the nurses were accomodating towards her as she successfully gave her baby only breastmilk by cup until he was able to come home and feed straight from the breast. Nurses Yolander Bullard, Tamika Gibson, Maxine Brown, Juanita Rolle and Gina Dean assisted in the graduation, which spearheaded by BNBA President Carlotta Klass, coordinator Trineka Hall and information officer Linelle Thompson. Each graduate received a certificate as well as a gift bag filled with useful items for mothers and babies from Lowe’s Wholesale, Bahamas Wholesale Agency, Dr Reginald Carey, and the D’Albenas Agency.

Six simple strategies for eliminating holiday stress (BPT) - The holidays bring a time to celebrate and get together with family and friends, but for many people, it can also come with a lot of stress. Social engagements, gift-buying and a seemingly endless amount of to-do’s can bring unwanted emotions that make it hard to enjoy the season. To keep your holiday spirits bright, it’s important to maintain a positive perspective and be aware of your feelings. The healthy lifestyle experts at the Mayo Clinic offer six simple strategies for reducing holiday stress so you can feel your best well into the new year. Help others Embrace the true spirit of the holidays by finding ways to give back. By sharing your time and talents with others, you’ll get more out of the experience, and likely find some satisfaction and peace of mind in the process. “Work at a soup kitchen, organise a gift drive, read to a child or help your neigh-

bor with something,” suggests Sara Carlson, certified diabetes educator in the Department of Endocrinology at Mayo Clinic. “Reaching out to others makes us feel good about ourselves and reminds us that we aren’t alone in facing challenges.” Eat well Cookies, casseroles, cakes and cocoa - the holidays are ripe with temptation. Eating too many unhealthy foods can leave you feeling unwell both physically and emotionally. Indulge, but do so in moderation. A few strategies to help: • Have one holiday drink and then switch to water. • Fill your plate with fresh veggies from the appetiser platter. • Skip the sauces; they are often heavy in salt, fat and calories. • Bring a healthy dish to share with everyone. • Avoid fasting; maintain a regular eating schedule. Say “no” It’s difficult to decline an invitation or request for a

favour during the holiday season. However, if you overload your schedule, your stress levels are bound to increase. A polite “no” when you’re feeling overloaded can be a lifesaver. “We need to protect our spirit, knowing when to draw a line in the sand and say, ‘Thank you for the opportunity, but I will not be able to participate,’” says Dr. Edward Creagan of the Mayo Clinic. “If we give and give, there is nothing left to give.” Offer forgiveness No family is perfect and the holidays are sometimes reminders of this. Attempting to create the perfect holiday is impossible. Accept that things will go wrong, but learn to let go and forgive others, as well as yourself. “Be realistic,” Dr Creagan says. “If individuals have locked horns for most of the year, it is not reasonable to think that on one day all will be forgiven. We need to be gentle with ourselves. We need to forgive ourselves.”

Keep calm and combat holiday stress Schedule fun With so many things to cross off the list, it’s easy to forget time to actually have fun during the holidays. So make sure to block off time on your schedule for favorite traditions. “Take time to do things you find relaxing or fun,” says Carlson. “Watch your favorite comedy, take an evening drive to look at holiday lights or curl up with a good book.”

Prioritise R&R Stress can make it difficult to sleep, yet when you don’t get enough sleep you can feel more anxious. To help your body get the rest it needs, try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule that allows for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. During the day, make space for relaxation as well so you don’t get overloaded. Take a gentle yoga class or practice meditation for

20 minutes. This can help bring a sense of peace and calm in an otherwise hectic day. If you have trouble meditating, consider online guided meditation or research audio options at your local library. • For more easy ideas on managing stress and staying well through the holidays and beyond, visit www.mayoclinic.org/ healthy-lifestyle.

Fitness Connection gives back to the elderly The residents of Unity House on East Street received a pleasant surprise this festive season as members of the non-profit group Fitness Connection stopped by to hand out groceries and spend time with the elderly at the retirement home. The visit took place on December 3 and was Fitness Connection’s second community service project since the summer. One of the major goals of the 25-member group is to give back to those in need in the Bahamian community. According to Fitness Connection’s president, Jarm “JJ” Mackey, due to the tremendous needs of the home, the members of the fitness group have agreed to adopt Unity House and will therefore work closely with

staff members in meeting the needs of the residents as often as possible in the new year. Fitness Connection was established last December with the objective of encouraging persons on their journey to physical fitness and optimal health, to assist with relationship building and offer other services. Those interested in learning more about Fitness Connection or wishing to provide monetary or food donations to assist in the care of the Unity House residents may contact Mr Mackey at jarmmackey@yahoo.com or the public relations officer Dr Sean Knowles at sleonardoknowles@gmail.com for more information.

Representatives of Fitness Connection visit the retirement home Unity House on East Street.

Dentistry in a stronger Bahamas As the year 2016 comes to a close it is my hope that our country and its people make plans for a healthy 2017. “The health of a nation is still the wealth of a nation”. I like the Stronger Bahamas campaign. The slogan itself suggests that wherever we are now, we are seeking to be in a better, and more optimum place. That has a strong appeal in my opinion. Notwithstanding all the areas where our country needs to become stronger, there is plenty room in the area of personal health. Emphasis on personal health will produce citizens that are physically, emotionally, and spiritually fit. The net result will then indeed be a stronger Bahamas with healthier citizens. In the area of personal health, dental health is a very weak link in our chain. This is so in part because many of our citizens approach their personal dental health from a position of pain. In

will be a complete shift in the mindset of people. Parents and guardians will be more interested in, and better informed of how to look after the dental health of their children.

Dr Sparkman Ferguson Registrar of the Bahamas Dental Council other words, only the presence of pain dictates the need to seek professional care. What will change (dentally speaking) in a stronger Bahamas? The greatest change witnessed

What will dental health in a stronger Bahamas look like? Parents will accept and believe that feedings with baby bottles should be discontinued by the age of 15 months. Parents will discontinue the practice of filling baby bottles with sugary drinks and cereals. Parents will be very food conscious when choosing meals for their children. They will do away with sugary breakfast cereals, high fructose corn syrup products, and low nutrition-high glycaemic foods. Parents will give their children calcium rich diets to ensure development of strong teeth and strong bones.

Parents will take their children for dental checkups every six months starting on the child’s 3rd birthday. Parents will also follow professional dental advice for maintaining the health of children. Schools will have an interactive health class, where dental health will be taught like literature or geography. Teeth brushing will also be a mandatory exercise for all students after lunchtime.

will understand that dental health begins early in life and is to be maintained throughout. We will accept that our dental health will not occur by accident, but only through our personal understanding and effort. Our understanding of diet (food and drink regularly consumed) and how it impacts the health of our teeth and gums will be utmost in our minds. This will cause us to make better food choices.

How will adults behave (dentally speaking) in a stronger Bahamas? Adults will have professional dental checks every six months including dental prophylaxis and dental imaging. Adults will follow professional dental advice for health maintenance. The food of adults will be highly nutritious with a low glycaemic index. Adults will reject high fructose corn syrup in food and drinks.

With this new understanding, we will then seek professional care not because we are in pain, but because we understand it to be the correct path to health.

What does all of this mean? In a stronger Bahamas, people

Conclusion: As futuristic as this article is presented, it is really not intended to be. This is really the current mindset of modern dentistry and is already practiced in advanced countries. We will ultimately experience a stronger (dental) Bahamas. We do have to begin by making wholesale mind changes, and then begin to put the acquired knowledge into regular practice.

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Tuesday, December 20, 2016, PAGE 11

Christmas joy What is it about this time of year that makes you feel like you have to wrap up and put away all of the loose ends of this year? For me, I never want to bring the untidy and stressful stuff into the next year, so it makes sense to want to clean things up a bit. I suppose that thinking adds to some of the stress this time of year. Along with the pressure of perfection, gift buying, wrapping, gift giving, cooking, and attending all of the parties you get invited to, it’s a pretty crazy, stressful time of year. No one wants to let anyone down, or miss a good party, or disappoint the kids, or forget about that crazy elf that’s lounging around your home. And before you know it, Christmas will be gone and you’ll feel it all went by in a blur. This time of year is fun for everyone – the adults, the kids, and even the scrooges that you may know, they love it too. But there are a lot of people in the world that don’t have a beautiful Christmas like we do. There are kids that won’t get a gift, and many others that won’t get to share in ham and turkey this year. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know what’s going on in the world and it’s not a cool place in some respects right now. I won’t be a Debbie Downer and list all of the wrong that’s out there, but at some point this Christmas, if we all joined in sending positive energy and reflecting on the not so good things happening around us, we might in fact see some small change. They say no one man can change the world, but all it takes is one man to spread a word and a movement can form. I know, the world has always had problems, since the beginning of time, and we may never change that and live in peace. But if Christmas is all about love and positivity and rejoicing, then why not believe that during this time of year there is a hum of a special positive energy that can cover the world? I believe that anything is possible. Hold your family tight, tell your loved ones that you love them, and do your best to reflect on your beautiful life during this very busy time. And above all, be grateful in whatever space you are holding right now. Wishing you that happiest of holiday seasons and a prosperous and peaceful New Year. Love and hugs!

US women increasingly use pot during pregnancy, study finds CHICAGO (AP) — US women are increasingly using marijuana during pregnancy, sometimes to treat morning sickness, new reports suggest. Though the actual numbers are small, the trend raises concerns because of evidence linking the drug with low birth weights and other problems. In 2014, almost four per cent of pregnant women said they’d recently used marijuana, up from 2.4 percent in 2002, according to an analysis of annual drug use surveys. Dr Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, said the results raise concerns and urged doctors and other health care providers to avoid recommending the drug for pregnant women. Volkow commented in an editorial published online Monday with the study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. A separate study in the same journal found that almost 10 per cent of adult marijuana users in the United States — three million people — have used it at least partly for medical reasons; 20 per cent of these users live in states where medical marijuana isn’t legal.

• Bianca Carter is a certified lactation counsellor and founder of Bun in the Oven. For more information, e-mail her at info@babybunintheoven. com. Follow BITO on Facebook at babybunintheoven, and check out the BITO Blog every Monday and Thursday at http://babybunintheoven. com.

Bun In The Oven

Bianca Carter

This holiday season, hold your loved ones close and tell them how you feel about them.

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tuesday, december 20, 2016

ShaKeisha McKenzie signs a copy of her book

Finding purpose in singlehood By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net

he gift of self-discovery is what Bahamian author ShaKeisha McKenzie hopes to give her readers this holiday season with her latest book, “100 Days of Singleness”. The book, she said, is designed to take readers, especially women, who are in a season of singleness on a journey to develop and become more aware of who they are. And what better time to release a self-help book of this nature than when countless singles are probably making New Year’s resolutions about potential relationship goals. The journey through chosen singlehood is one that the author embarked on herself a while back when she recognised a cycle of dysfunction in her own life that needed to come to an end. “I was hurting, my relationships weren’t working, and I was in and out of depression for longer than I wanted to admit. It started with a recommitment to my relationship with God that birthed an awareness of myself I had never previously experienced,” Ms McKenzie told Tribune Woman. “That’s where this came from – my journey to healing shared with the world. I saw what God did in me and I just want every woman I encounter to know that

“I saw what God did in me and I just want every woman I encounter to know that He can and desires to do the same for her.”

Local author pens motivational book for women He can and desires to do the same for her.” The book, she said, challenges and motivates readers to step out of their comfort zone each day. Readers are challenged on some days to recite a prayer, meditate on a particular scripture, release an unhealthy relationship or write a list of things they love about themselves. The book was written for singles, but focuses primarily on development and self-awareness. “I made a commitment to transparency when I was writing this book. I stayed true to that. I believe wholeheartedly that everyone who picks it up will be able to get something from it. I have witnessed people of all ages tell me how they were inspired and connected with it. It’s truth, my truth, and God’s word. Committing to the challenge is a lifechanging experience; it’s been proven in myself and women whose transformation I have witnessed,” the author said. “I certainly love my readers. I write with them in mind and under influence of the great God I serve.” “100 days of Singleness” has

“100 Days of Singleness” was written for singles, but focuses primarily on development and self-awareness. also inspired a web series called “Singulher in a partnership with Unorthobox Entertainment. Ms McKenzie’s call to uplift and encourage extends far beyond the book, which she said can be considered a by-product of the Cross My Heart Ministry which she founded. “Cross My Heart Ministry was first birthed in 2014 with the

motto, ‘Changing the world, one heart at a time’. The goal has and always will be to share the message of healing and hope found in Christ. We have recently begun registering young women between 18 and 35 for a new initiative called Heart Strings. I believe it’s going to change lives,” said Ms McKenzie. “My greatest joy is found in

serving, loving and watching those around me flourish in their God-given purpose. Most dear to me is my daughter, who challenges me daily to be a better woman than I was the day before, and my fiancé who loves me in doing the very same. I am family-oriented and purpose-motivated.” Apart from being a motivational author, Ms McKenzie is a member of eNue, a youth organisation that aims to help youth to appreciate, embrace and release their inner greatness. This year she also engaged a numerous speaking engagements. Ms McKenzie is currently pursuing a life coach certification which she expects to receive in March 2017. “100 Days of Singleness” can be purchased at The Bible Book & Gift Centre (Nassau), H & L School Supplies (Downtown Freeport), and from Amazon as a Kindle book.