01082026 BUSINESS

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Thursday, January 8, 2026

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pricing Pan-Caribbean tour franchisee Insurance ‘stalemate’ over takes on Garden of the Groves $50m fire payout • Chukka’s Bahamian partner in management deal A KEY Grand Bahama tourism destination is being • Includes ‘intent to purchase’ taken over by the Bahamian franchisee of a pan-Caribkey GB tourism asset bean tour operator through a management agreement that • Both sides ‘feeling our way’ includes an option to later acquire the asset, Tribune as tie-up in its infancy Business can reveal. BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

Sean Basden, who is also the principal of Taino Beach and Flamingo Resorts, yesterday confirmed he has both acquired the Chukka Caribbean franchise “for The Bahamas” and taken over the Garden of The Groves’ management with effect from December 1, 2025. Responding to this newspaper’s inquiries, he affirmed that the “ultimate plan” is to build upon the Garden’s 50-year heritage and enhance its appeal as a destination for stopover visitors, cruise tourists and local residents - including Carnival’s passengers at the nearby $600m

Celebration Key development where Mr Basden and Chukka already operate the water sports and activities. Declining to go into detail, given that the Garden of The Groves’ management transition and handover is in its early stages, Mr Basden nevertheless confirmed that he and Chukka are taking over an asset once regarded as one of the Caribbean’s top botanical gardens following the passing of its previous operators, Erika and Ed Gates. “Yes, I did,” he told Tribune Business of the deal. “We’re still in the planning process. We just took over the management on December 1.” Well-placed sources, speaking to this newspaper on condition of anonymity, said Mr Basden and Chukka were especially interested in developing an alternative off-site tour and excursion destination that could cater to Carnival customers when rough weather meant

GARDEN OF THE GROVES

DESTINATION - See Page B8

Abaco resort buyers to ‘bring Bluff House back’ BY ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter anixon@tribunemedia.net A WELL-known Abaco resort will enjoy increased accommodations, services and staff following the closing of its purchase by VIP Marinas late last year. The Bluff House Beach Resort will become the 15th marina in the buyer’s portfolio following its end-November 2025 sale by BHH Ltd, representing “a group of investors who owned the property for 14 years prior. It is now co-owned by Austin and Jenny Cameron, together with Dan and Felecia

Ongley, who have pledged not to “lose the charm and the authenticity of what we fell in love with here” as they plan the resort’s new and improved future. And, to help address Abaco’s housing shortage, Mr Cameron said another structure dedicated to staff housing may be built if needed. It will accompany the most recently-built staff quarters, which were completed around May last year under the resort’s prior ownership. Mr Cameron said a ferry and a resort boat will be used to transport persons to and from mainland Abaco.

Currently employing 24 persons, and with Molly McIntosh staying as general manager, Ms Ongley, the resort's chief operating officer, said staffing levels at Bluff House will eventually grow as the existing workforce is strengthened through training and development. “We really want to be good stewards of what's happening here on the island,” she said. “Our hope is to be one of the best employers on the island so people love to come here and work, and as we grow, grow that where people have opportunities not only to come to

Realtor aiming to beat 40% sales value jump BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net BAHAMIAN realtors and developers were yesterday said to have enjoyed up to 35-40 percent year-overyear increases in the dollar value of completed sales in 2025, with one asserting that his firm expects to “match or exceed” this performance this year. John Christie, HG Christie's president, told Tribune Business that - while he had expected The Bahamas’ high-end and international market to slow from its COVID “boom” - the falloff had not been as much as expected and now buyer

demand had “picked back up to full strength”. He asserted: “2025 was a great year. In terms of dollar value we were almost 40 percent higher than the year before. In actual sales, we were almost the same. We had 406 sales, and we expect 2026 to be strong. I think we’ll match or exceed last year. “Baker’s Bay put out a memorandum that said in 2025 they were 35 percent higher in dollar value as well. We were in line with them. Everyone is doing pretty well, and Albany has very little inventory, too.

TRANSACTION - See Page B5

Gov’t reveals 2,000-job Mayaguana port project BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Government last night unveiled a renewed bid to spark economic activity in Mayaguana and the south-eastern Bahamas via a public-private partnership (PPP) billed as ultimately creating “2,000 full-time jobs” by developing a maritime port and logistics facility on that island. The Prime Minister’s Office, in a statement, said the Davis administration

is partnering with Global Lead Consultant, which appears to be a newly-formed company describing itself as “a Bahamian consulting firm providing design, development and management services” specifically for this project, in an effort to exploit Mayaguana’s strategic location close to major international shipping lanes. Describing the ‘Port at Mayaguana’ as “a major maritime and logistics project intended to strengthen

PARTNER - See Page B7

ACQUIRE - See Page B8

DAN and Felecia Ongley, co-owners and partners in the Bluff House Beach Resort and Marina.

• Property premiums ‘stable’ but no relief yet • Bahamas carriers kept Melissa to Jamaica • ‘Cover not hard to find’ - affordability is key BY NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN insurers hit a “stalemate” with their global reinsurance partners due to an “unprecedented” year of fire-related losses and payouts in 2025, it was revealed yesterday, with property coverage costs set to remain “flat” for business and homeowners this year. Anton Saunders, RoyalStar Assurance’s managing director, told Tribune Business that his and other local property and casualty underwriters were neither satisfied not dissatisfied with the outcome of the latest annual reinsurance renewal negotiations as they obtained sufficient capacity that will allow clients to secure the protection they need. While Bahamian carriers had successfully argued that the impact of Hurricane Melissa’s multi-billion dollar damages should be confined to Jamaica, and not used to justify premium rate increases for other Caribbean territories, he added that reinsures had countered by pointing to the higher-than-normal fire-related claims payouts in this nation. Mr Saunders described the number and severity of fires as “unprecedented” in 2025, including the multi-million dollar damages and losses stemming from the blaze that destroyed the Solomon’s and Cost Right Old Trail Road outlets, as well as the planned new head office for the Department of Labour and other government agencies. Other fires included the blaze that struck PrimeOne Seafood and Steakhouse, located in the One West Plaza, in early June, plus the Bay Street and Elizabeth Avenue fire in downtown Nassau that destroyed the residences in Victoria Court. Mr Saunders estimated insured fire-related losses and payouts at a total $50m. And, with reinsurers covering the bulk of these claims, the RoyalStar chief said the treaty renewal negotiations will likely result in neither increased nor decreased insurance premium costs for home and business owners seeking to protect their property assets from

PROTECT - See Page B9

PAGE 2, Thursday, January 8, 2026

THE TRIBUNE

CLEAR EYES CRITICAL ON BUSINESS AUTOMATION B

usiness automation has become the ‘buzzword’ of the day among Bahamian entrepreneurs, promised as a silver bullet for efficiency and profitability. Software vendors tout dramatic savings, consultants paint visions of hands-free operations, and success stories circulate about businesses that transformed overnight. Yet beneath the marketing gloss lies a more complex reality that every business owner should understand before taking the plunge. The initial investment in automation extends far beyond the sticker price of software subscriptions. A Bahamian retail business considering automated inventory management might see a monthly fee of $200 and assume that represents the total cost. The reality proves far more intricate. Implementation often requires hardware upgrades ranging from barcode scanners to improved Internet connectivity. Staff need training, which means either paying for courses or accepting reduced productivity during the learning period. Data migration from existing systems demands time and, often, professional assistance. A realistic budget for even modest automation projects typically runs at three to five times’ the advertised software cost. Time represents another frequently under-estimated expense. The transition period between manual processes and full automation can paradoxically increase workload rather than reduce it. Employees must maintain old systems while learning new ones, double-checking automated outputs until confidence builds. A Nassau accounting firm that automated its invoicing discovered staff spent the first three months correcting errors and

KEITH

ROYE II reconciling discrepancies - essentially doing double work. Hidden ongoing costs accumulate as well. Software subscriptions typically increase annually, integration with other systems often requires additional tools, and technical support becomes a recurring expense. Yet dismissing automation based solely on costs would be equally shortsighted. The savings, when automation is implemented thoughtfully, can be substantial and multi-faceted. Labour costs represent the most obvious benefit. A local shipping company that automated its booking and tracking system reduced administrative staff hours by 60 percent, redirecting those employees to customer service roles that generate revenue rather than process paperwork. Successful automation typically reallocates human effort rather than simply cutting jobs. Error reduction delivers savings that extend beyond immediate corrections. Manual data entry generates mistakes that cascade through operations. An incorrectly entered order leads to the wrong shipments, customer complaints, returns and reshipments. A Bahamian hotel that

automated its reservation system reported that booking errors dropped from roughly 15 per month to fewer than two, saving thousands in compensation and preserving guest relationships that represent future revenue. Speed improvements translate directly to capacity increases. When a legal office automates document generation, attorneys spend less time on administrative tasks and more time serving clients. The same staff can handle more cases without working longer hours. This capacity expansion often represents the most significant return on automation investment, manifesting as revenue growth rather than cost reduction. Customer experience enhancements, while harder to quantify, drive real economic value. Automated e-mail confirmations and online scheduling systems offer convenience that attracts customers. A local service provider discovered that automated appointment reminders reduced no-shows by 40 percent, protecting revenue that would have otherwise evaporated. The calculus becomes even more favourable when considering scalability. Manual processes that work adequately for ten transactions daily collapse under 50. Automated systems typically handle increased volume without proportional cost increases, proving particularly valuable for Bahamian businesses eyeing expansion beyond local markets. However, not all automation delivers positive returns. The determinant lies in choosing the right processes to automate. Repetitive, high volume, rule-based tasks represent ideal candidates. Invoicing,

TECHNOLOGY - See Page B5

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 3

‘No idea’ on alleged $100m Colina debt BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net A CABINET minister yesterday said he had “no idea” whether assertions that the Government owes $100m to the carrier providing medical insurance to security forces personnel is correct amid claims that qualified dependents are being denied coverage. Wayne Munroe, minister of national security, said he has not received any similar complaints from the associations representing Royal Bahamas Defence Force or Department of Corrections officers after the Police Staff Association alleged that the denial of coverage to qualified spouses and children - as well as the unpaid health premiums allegedly owed to Colina Insurance Company - represented “profound disrespect” towards those placing their

WAYNE MUNROE lives in danger on a regular basis. Ricardo Walkes, the Police Staff Association’s chairman, in a January 7 letter to members raised concerns about officers with dependent coverage for spouses and children particularly those on the medical insurance plan before 2023 - being denied coverage. “It has recently come to the attention of the Police

Staff Association that, over the past year, many officers entitled to dependent coverage, specifically those who were on the plan prior to the Government's decision to restrict coverage for those joining after 2023, are being denied coverage for their dependents. This includes spouses and newborn children who were previously accepted into the insurance plan,” said Mr Walkes. “Regrettably, despite having the names of dependents accepted, several family members have recently required medical services and have been denied coverage due to this ongoing issue. This denial not only creates unnecessary stress for our officers but also raises significant concerns about the respect and care that our members deserve.” Mr Walkes said that, during a recent meeting with Colina representatives, he had been

shown warnings issued by the BISX-listed life and health insurer to the Government about the potential consequences if the unpaid premium balance was not paid or substantially reduced, but the debt has allegedly continued to grow. “In a recent meeting with representatives from Colina Insurance Company, I learned that the Government of The Bahamas owes the insurance provider approximately $100m. This overwhelming debt is not just a financial statistic; it represents a profound disrespect for police officers who selflessly put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities. The lack of response and attention to this matter by those in power is both disappointing and unsettling,” said Mr Walkes. “During the meeting, I was presented with documents indicating that warnings had previously been issued to the

Boating fees review is branded Xmas present BY ANNELIA NIXON Tribune Business Reporter anixon@tribunemedia.net THE Government’s pre-holiday pledge that the new and increased boating fees will be reviewed was yesterday branded “a Christmas present” with marinas suffering during the festive period amid “good” hotel occupancies. Molly McIntosh, general manager at the Bluff House in Abaco, said an update from the Government regarding the fees may come in time for the Palm Beach Boat show scheduled for March. “We're hoping for some good news from the Ministry of Finance,” she said. “It might not be that soon. I know they just went back to work, but we're hoping to have some kind of… maybe a new concession on the boating fees and regulations. “But we might not get that until the Palm Beach show, which is in March. It definitely has affected all of Abaco. Marina occupancy is down. I don't know anywhere in Abaco that is either the same or higher occupancy than this time last year.” Lee Prosenjak, managing director of Valentine’s Resort and Marina, the largest in Briland with 51

slips, said captains and crews are boycotting The Bahamas with upset visitors encouraging others in Facebook groups to do the same. Noting that business for his marina was down during the holidays, he is grateful that the Government announced a review of the fees. “The marina was still very down, of course,” he said. “It's been really slow since that new cruising permit went into effect on July 1. So [it was] a little bit of a Christmas present with the deputy prime minister's message on the 24th to say that they're now going to look at these fees. They didn't commit to doing anything, but at least it's something that's under review and clearly being noticed.” While no timeline was provided on when operators would hear back from the Government regarding the fees, Mr Prosenjak said even if changes are made soon “there's still going to be a pretty long lead-out period.” “So I'm not sure if we'll have an answer back from the deputy prime minister or not by that point, next week [for the Boat Show in Stuart, Florida],” he said. “I mean, it would be great if we did. But anything that happens, there's still going

to be a pretty long lead out period. “Even if it changes today, if you're planning a trip in February you've already planned that trip, or March or April or something like that. So this is really going to affect something like a May or June timeframe, when people are planning their next wave. “It's always going to be a couple months’ lead time if you've already booked. We heard this from lots of customers that came in, like July, for example. They said, 'If my trip wasn't already booked, I wouldn't have come. But I was already booked with hotels and flights and other things. And so we decided to just pay the extra and show up’,” Mr Prosenjak said, “One person literally came in on July 1 and said: 'If I had come a day earlier, I would have saved myself two thirds of the price.' So, there's a bit of a long tail that goes with each one of these things. And so we're still going to be off this season. I mean, even if you change it today, it's not going to radically increase people showing up here tomorrow.” Ms McIntosh reported having “a good Christmas” in terms of hotel occupancy, while Mr Prosenjak said his

rooms were sold out “which is normal” for that period. “The hotel was sold out over the week between Christmas or the day after Christmas, usually through the first [of November],” Mr Prosenjak said. “So that was normal, which is good,

Government informing them of the potential ramifications of this situation. Despite these warnings, they have allowed this astronomical bill to continue to inflate, leading to the distressing circumstances we are currently facing. “Additionally, I have written on more than three occasions to the Prime Minister, requesting an audience to discuss this and other pressing issues. Unfortunately, I have yet to receive a response, which only adds to our frustration as we seek resolution.” Mr Walkes subsequently said Colina officials told him the insurer had told the Government it wanted a $30m payment on the sums owed before dependents would receive coverage. “What they're saying is that they're expecting a payment of at least $30m before they would enroll those persons into the plan,” he said. “I would just

like to them to pay Colina what is owed to them. “What the persons at Colina said to me is that they offered the Government more of a payment plan to bring this bill down and keep it down. However, they haven't heard anything back from the Government, either.” Mr Walkes added that the Association was aware of at least 10 officers whose children were denied coverage, and at least three officers whose spouses were unable to access medical services. Speaking to Tribune Business, Mr Munroe denied knowledge of the Government’s outstanding debt to Colina, stating that he had “no idea” what the balance is. “What I do know is that the Defence Force and Corrections are covered by the same policy. They did not report anything about not

a little bit soft on both sides, like we're not sold out those other days, like the 23rd or things like that.” Ms McIntosh added: “December is slow, except for that Christmas to New Year's time anyway. But we did have a wedding in December that brought our occupancy up some. And Christmas and New Year's, we were 75 percent

occupied over that week from December 24 until about January 3. “Of course, we'd like to see an increase. There's just not a lot of room for us. We're not that big. There's not a lot of room for a huge increase. But a lot of years we're 100 percent occupied over Christmas and New Years.”

PREMIUM - See Page B9

PAGE 4, Thursday, January 8, 2026

THE TRIBUNE

Exuma reports strong Xmas despite boating fees issues EXUMA resort and excursion operators are reporting near-record or full occupancies for the Christmas and New Year period despite concerns about lower boating visitors due to the ongoing fee controversy. Several described strong demand for the “exciting and sustainable” product while also warning about over-development and calling for greater protection of the very environment and waters that continue to attract tourists. Both Staniel Cay Yacht Club and Embrace Resort reported full occupancy for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. The Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), in a statement, said its members reported that the volume of vessels in the Exuma Cays was so high that boats were observed anchoring in areas not typically frequented. “We haven’t experienced the boating slowdown people have been talking about,” said Girisa Chamberlain, of Staniel Cay, whose husband is a pilot in the area and whose family operates Chamberlain Cottages. “There were boats every day. It was busy, and we even saw boats in places they don’t normally go.”

BUSINESSES have credited the beauty of the Exuma cays as one of the factors that has ensured they had a strong Christmas season while other parts of The Bahamas struggled to fill marinas. She attributed the strong demand to the natural appeal of the islands, even as other regions reported marina booking shortfalls linked to fee increases. “People love the area,” Ms Chamberlain said. “They love the peacefulness. Visitors don’t come here for overcrowding or city life. They come for the authenticity that still exists here, and they value that.” David Hocher, owner of Staniel Cay Yacht Club, confirmed the club was full throughout the holiday season and described the Exuma Cays as “booming”.

“The Exuma Cays offer some of the most reliable and exciting cruising and sustainable tourism experiences anywhere - from beaching and boating to sand-barring and enjoying pristine waters,” Mr Hocher said. “People don’t come here to shop. They come for the tranquility and the beauty. That’s what makes this place magical.” However, Mr Hocher warned that over-sized development could jeopardise the very environment that underpins Exuma’s success. He added: “We are not against development,

BUSINESSES have called for the protection of undersea areas in order to preserve the beauty of the Exumas, which has been a major factor in driving repeat tourism to the area. but development always comes with environmental disruption. The question is balance. If over-development leads to lost business, then you don’t just lose habitat - you lose the experience. And once that’s gone, what is the real value of the development?” At Embrace Resort on Staniel Cay, Natajia Miller, its general manager, said the property was also fully booked over the holidays, noting a sharp increase in marine traffic around Pig Beach. “The area around Pig Beach was flooded with

catamarans,” Ms Miller said. “We were full, and the beauty of the cays plays a huge role in why guests keep returning.” She explained that while the swimming pigs draw first-time visitors, it is the broader natural experience that brings them back. “They arrive for the pigs, but they stay for everything else,” she said. “The sand bars, the water - the Exuma Cays are unlike anywhere else. That beauty is what keeps people coming back.” Ms Miller emphasised the long-term importance of protecting those resources.

“We have guests from New York and Los Angeles who haven’t even reached the hotel yet, and they already feel their heartbeat slow down,” she said. “That sense of calm is priceless. If we diminish our natural resources, by 2036 we could all be looking for jobs elsewhere. We want our children to benefit from what we’ve enjoyed.” Ms Chamberlain echoed those concerns, warning that large-scale, self-contained developments could undermine local businesses. “If developers build resorts that offer everything on-site, why would guests come into Staniel Cay or Black Point?” she asked. “That would directly impact small businesses, especially during peak season.” Ms Chamberlain also questioned development priorities, adding: “There’s a heavy focus on large developments, while essential community needs are overlooked. We don’t have enough teachers and the roads are in poor condition. Investing in community infrastructure would truly support long-term sustainability for Exuma.”

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Looking to fill the following positions:

CRANE OPERATOR

Responsible for lifting, moving, and positioning heavy materials and equipment in accordance with project requirements. Follow established safety guidelines and company policies to prevent accidents and maintain a secure work environment.

TUGBOAT CAPTAIN

Responsibilities include vessel navigation, towing operations, ensuring safety compliance, maintaining clear communication, and handling emergency responses. To qualify, you must hold a valid Captain’s license and necessary certifications, have proven experience in a similar maritime role.

FOREMAN

To Lead and supervise construction crews on civil projects. Coordinate tasks, equipment, and personnel efficiently. Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations. Maintain high standards of workmanship and project quality.

HEALTH SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT MANAGER

Develop and enforce safety protocols across projects, integrate safety measures into operations, coordinate with teams for effective safety procedures, monitor and ensure compliance, and provide regular safety reports to management.

QUALITY COORDINATOR

CONTROL

Ensures adherence to quality standards through procedure development, inspections, and testing coordination. Able to manage documentation, supplier quality, and training, driving continuous improvement. Develop, implement, and monitor quality control procedures.

Coordinate testing, inspections, and analysis. Bachelor’s degree in related field is required

PILE DRIVER

Operate pile driving equipment to install structural foundations in construction projects. Drive pilings into the ground using various methods, such as hydraulic hammers or vibratory drivers. Follow project schedules and deadlines to complete pile driving tasks within specified timeframes.

DIESEL MECHANIC

Perform diesel engine maintenance and repairs. Diagnose mechanical issues efficiently. Conduct routine inspections and maintenance tasks. Adhere to strict safety protocols. Proven diesel mechanic experience and certification or vocational training preferred.

SUPERINTENDENT

Oversee daily site operations, ensuring construction activities are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with project plans and regulations. Supervise and coordinate the work of contractors, subcontractors, and site personnel to meet quality and schedule requirements.

ELECTRICAL SPECIALIST

An Electrical Specialist is responsible for installing, inspecting, troubleshooting, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and code-compliant operation. The role includes diagnosing faults, performing repairs, supporting projects, and ensuring adherence to electrical standards and safety regulations.

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit your resume to lfarrington@americianbridge.net by: January 15th, 2026

(L-R) BACK ROW: Sean McWeeney Jnr, Graham Thomspon; Michael Anderson, RF Bank & Trust group president and chief executive; Gregory Bethel, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas). Front: Charnette Thompson, Cable Bahamas; Sydney Smith, Doctors Hospital; Patrice Nichols, The Tribune.

PM leads speakers for RF Economic Outlook THE Prime Minister is among the speakers lined up for RF Bank & Trust’s annual Bahamas Economic Outlook conference that is due to be held on February 13 at the Baha Mar Convention Centre. The forum, now in its 11th year in The Bahamas, will be held under the theme ‘AI tsunami: Navigating the surge of intelligent innovation’. Besides Philip Davis KC, the speakers feature four best-selling authors; a Morgan Stanley executive director; a Prime Video television host; and the former publisher of Forbes. They are Michelle M. Weaver of Morgan

Stanley; Ian Khan, host of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Futurist’; Jamie Metzl, a technology and healthcare futurist; Rich Karlgaard, a technology entrepreneur, geopolitical analyst and former publisher of Forbes; and Jill Heinerth, an underwater explorer, filmmaker and environmental activist. RF Bank & Trust, in a statement, said attendees can look forward to interactive, expert- led presentations on opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI). “We look forward to welcoming hundreds of industry leaders, dignitaries and idea entrepreneurs

yet again this year,” said Ethan Knowles, regional communications supervisor at RF Bank & Trust. “We are especially grateful to our primary sponsors - Aliv Business, Doctor’s Hospital, Fidelity Bank (Bahamas), Graham Thompson and The Tribune newspaper - for riding the AI wave with us.” Christopher Adderley, RF Bank & Trust’s regional events supervisor, said the breadth of industries represented by the conference’s major sponsors - telecommunications, health, finance, law and media - further emphasises the significance of the event.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 5

Retailers shrug off Trump tariffs with 15% sales rise BY FAY SIMMONS Tribune Business Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net BAHAMIAN retailers yesterday reported a 15 percent increase in sales over the Christmas season despite higher inventory costs resulting from US tariffs raising concerns for small businesses. Mark A. Turnquest, founder of the 242 Small Business Association and Resource Centre, said

micro, small and medium-sized businesses across The Bahamas experienced a strong finish to the year with holiday sales exceeding expectations. Speaking to Tribune Business, he said that while concerns over rising costs particularly those resulting from tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump had worried some business owners earlier in the year, the impact was less severe than anticipated and many

Care required over automate investing TECHNOLOGY - from page B2 inventory tracking, payroll processing and appointment scheduling typically justify automation quickly. Creative work, complex problem solving and relationship building remain firmly in the human domain. Businesses that attempt to automate everything often waste

resources on systems that provide minimal benefit. The Bahamian context introduces specific considerations. Inconsistent Internet connectivity in some areas makes Cloud-based automation risky without back-up systems. Small customer bases mean automation that makes sense for mainland enterprises might

Post-COVID ‘boom’ is ‘back to full strength’ TRANSACTION - from page B1 Those people coming here have got to buy. It’s great.” Mr Christie added that the high-end, international segment of the Bahamian real estate market is “strong for any number of reasons” with numerous European purchasers targeting this nation and potential investor appearing to be less spooked by ongoing economic uncertainty and the world’s continued geopolitical turmoil. “I was on the phone with a couple of developers, and we had a very busy Christmas period with several sales happening over that time,” he told this newspaper. “We anticipate that 2025 will be very strong and even better than 2025. There are a lot of things under contract now that will be reflected in 2026. “I did expect after the boom in 2021-2022 things would slow down; they did a bit, but not to the extent we expected. It’s picked back up again and is back in full swing.” Asked whether he foresees any headwinds and challenges for the Bahamian real estate market in 2026, Mr Christie replied: “Only a lack of inventory. It’s a good thing and a bad thing.

“The lack of inventory means that when something comes on the market, people are buying it, whereas in the past they had to put it on, wait and wait, while buyers waited to see if the price came down. Now, if they want something and it is priced right, they have to buy it or lose it.” Mr Christie added that the increasing use of the Bahamas Real Estate Association’s (BREA) multiple listing system (MLS) to list

merchants ended the season with solid profits. “Year over year, it was better than last year. Sales were about 15 percent higher, so we did have a good year,” said Mr Turnquest “In reality, the tariff with Donald Trump didn’t create a sustainable challenge this year. For a couple of months - maybe June, July, and August - it was a big concern that the tariff would hit us hard in the latter part of the year, but that didn’t happen.”

He said that despite an increase in inventory costs, the rise in sales helped businesses maintain healthy profit margins. “Purchasing costs went up, but sales were high enough to cover them. Our purchasing costs are still far less than our sales, which gave us a good profit that covered our expenses,” Mr Turnquest explained. He added that electricity costs during 2025 were considerably lower for many businesses and, outside of a

sharp increase during peak summer months, this did not “burden” small businesses. “The electricity bill was not a major factor. We had a slight increase in early summer and later in the season, but that was expected. If you use more electricity, you pay more. In terms of our overall margins, high electricity costs did not significantly affect our distribution of expenses. The electricity expense was not a burden

as we had anticipated,” said Mr Turnquest. Other retailers echoed the positive outlook. A manager at Lorene’s described the holiday season as steady. “Things were pretty good. We haven’t gone through everything and run all the numbers, so I’m not sure exactly how well we did. But, I mean, things were good. It wasn’t horrible - we were happy,” they said.

be overkill locally. Successful implementation requires addressing these cultural and practical realities rather than importing solutions wholesale from different markets. The most successful automation stories share common characteristics. They start small, automating one process fully before expanding. They involve staff in selection and implementation, treating automation as a tool for employees rather than a replacement. They maintain realistic timelines, typically

measuring pay back periods in years rather than months. They invest in training and support, recognising that technology only delivers value when people use it effectively. For Bahamian businesses considering automation, the fundamental question should not be whether to automate but what to automate and when. Calculate total costs honestly, including implementation, training and ongoing expenses. Measure potential savings conservatively, accounting for transition

periods and learning curves. Consider intangible benefits such as improved customer experience that contribute to long-term success even if they resist precise quantification. The truth about business automation occupies the pragmatic middle ground where thoughtful investment, realistic expectations and patient implementation yield genuine returns. For Bahamian businesses competing in an increasingly digital economy, automation represents not a luxury but a necessity. Those who

approach it with clear eyes and careful planning will find it a powerful ally in building sustainable, competitive enterprises.

and sell property was helping to build an accurate, reliable information database to show what vacant land and buildings should be priced at to achieve a quick sale. “We have a real market,” he told this newspaper: “We have real data. People are more generally listing properties at more realistic values closer to where it will sell. In the past, people threw numbers around and waited and waited for up to a couple of years. “Now, if they have a good realtor and the seller listens to them, they will price it right and it will sell pretty

quickly…. It also seems like, even though there’s always something going on in the world and the stock market, no one pays attention to it any more. It’s just business as usual unless it gets really bad but I think people are pretty bullish right now.” Mr Christie and his firm are currently marketing for sale a 2.41-acre property on Paradise Island’s western end, located between the Yoga Retreat and Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club, that features 15 bedrooms and bathrooms plus

three partial bathrooms. It also possesses 200 feet of beach and harbour frontage. Describing this property as “a bit of an outlier”, Mr Christie nevertheless said that “people are inquiring about it and it’s just a question of finding the right buyer”. “A contemporary architectural masterpiece, the estate offers 16,786 square fee of air conditioned interiors and 21,185 square feet of total living space across three principal buildings for the owners, plus a fourth

dedicated primarily for the staff,” HG Christie’s website said of the Paradise Island property. “Recreational amenities include a versatile multi-use court configured for tennis, two pickle ball courts and basketball….. Completing the property is a 160-foot dock with a boat lift, which can be easily upgraded to accommodate a large yacht with minimal modifications.”

• NB: About Keith Keith Roye II is a highly analytic and solutions-driven professional with extensive experience in software development. He holds a BSc in computer science and his career includes leading and delivering global software projects in various industries in The Bahamas and the US.

In the Estate of

Peter Burnett Evans

late of Ranger Road, Lyford Cay in the Western District of the Island of New Providence Notice is hereby given that all persons having any claims or demands against the above-named Estate are requested to send the same duly certified to the undersigned on or before the 22nd day of January, A.D. 2026. Notice is hereby also given that at the expiration of the time above mentioned the assets of the deceased will be distributed among the persons entitled thereto having regard only to the claims of which the Executrices shall then have had notice. Holowesko Pyfrom Fletcher Attorneys for the Executor Chambers Templeton Building, Lyford Cay Nassau, Bahamas

APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that by Order of the Supreme Court of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Common Law & Equity Division, in Action No. 2021/ CLE/gen/FP/00122, styled Sherrexcia A. Rolle v. Suffolk Court Condominium – Phase I Association & Anor., dated 7 August 2025, the Court appointed Mr. John S. Bain as Administrator of Suffolk Court Condominium – Phase I Association. The Administrator is appointed for a period of twentyfour (24) months from the date of the Judgment, with all powers and duties of the body corporate pursuant to section 27 of the Law of Property and Conveyancing (Condominium) Act, Ch. 139. All persons having business, claims, or dealings with the said Condominium Association are hereby required to take notice and govern themselves accordingly. Contact for the Administrator: John S. Bain Administrator – Suffolk Court Condominium – Phase I Association JSB Global Solutions Suites 101 & 102, Island Lane, Sandyport Nassau, The Bahamas Email: john@jsb.solutions | Tel: 242-327-1011 Dated this 8th day of January 2026. By Order of the Court

PAGE 6, Thursday, January 8, 2026

THE TRIBUNE

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 7

US ambassador to address Bahamas Business Outlook THE newly-appointed US ambassador to The Bahamas will address next Thursday’s 35th Bahamas Business Outlook conference on the topic ‘Strengthening foundations: Shaping Bahamas/US relations’. Organisers said Herschel Walker’s participation adds an international policy perspective to the event through a focus on Bahamas–US relations and their role within the broader Caribbean and global economic landscape.

A former professional athlete, entrepreneur and public figure who built a diverse career spanning sports, business and public service, Mr Walker first gained recognition as a stand-out running back at the University of Georgia where he secured the 1980 national college football championship and won the 1982 Heisman Trophy. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999. Mr Walker went on to play football professionally,

beginning his career with the New Jersey Generals in the United States Football League (USFL) before moving to the National Football League (NFL) with the Dallas Cowboys and, later, Minnesota Vikings. He was also as a member of the US bobsled team in the 1992 Winter Olympics and a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter. After retiring from sports, Mr Walker founded Renaissance Man Food Services, expanding his work into

entrepreneurship and the food service industry. He has long served as a public advocate for mental health in the US armed forces. In 2018, he was appointed to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition, where he served until 2022, and was inducted into the Horatio Alger Association that same year. He was also the Republican nominee in Georgia’s 2022 US Senate election. The 35th Annual Bahamas Business Outlook, to

be held under the theme “Strengthening foundations for long-term prosperity,” is organised by The Counsellors. Prime Minister Philip Davis will deliver the keynote address, providing a national policy perspective within the broader programme. Registration is available at tclevents.com or by contacting Margaret Albury at 322-1000 or malbury@tclbahamas.com.

PPP port partner is all-Bahamian group

explaining the project’s rationale. “Under the PPP, Global Lead Consultant Group, together with its team, will work alongside the Government to develop a project that includes port and land side works, a transshipment and storage port for containers and bulk cargo, excavation, housing and supporting facilities, and upgrades to utilities. The private partners referenced by the project team include 77 Construction UK, among others.” An Internet search yielded few details on 77 Construction UK. However, the Prime Minister’s Office said the Mayaguana port project is being structured as a joint venture between the Government and its private sector partners in the PPP, although the precise terms and ownership percentages were not disclosed. “The project is to be jointly owned by the Government of The Bahamas, the Mayaguana Island Development Fund, and Global Lead Consultant Group,” it added. “The operating entity will be Mayaguana Port Group Ltd (MPGL). The Mayaguana Island Development Fund component is intended for the direct benefit of Mayaguana, and

the partners have indicated an intention to engage the community on the use of those funds.” That indicates Mayaguana Island Development Fund is being created solely to hold the interest of, and provide benefits to, island residents. Global Lead Consultant Group’s website names Vincent McDonald, a 35-year hospitality entrepreneur who owns Curly’s Group of Companies - the parent of Curly’s Bar on Cable Beach and Curly’s Restaurant on Arawak Cay - and is a partner in Bahamas Renewable Energy Company (BREC). Other principals include its chief executive, Winfield ‘Johnny’ Outten, a former banker who founded Tiffany Marble Products, which later became Bahamas Kitchen and Bath, and also Countrywide Builders. He is currently a director of the Bahamas Entrepreneurial Venture Capital fund. Leslie Hutchison, an engineer and project manager, is named as Global Lead Consultant Group’s chief operations officer, and is said to have worked on New Providence’s $200m road improvement project as well as the upgrades to water and sewerage and road infrastructure in downtown Nassau. Also named is Junardo Hall as the project’s financial consultant, while Global Lead Consultant’s attorney

is Owen Wells, the McKinney, Turner & Company partner, who The Tribune today reports is being asked by the governing Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) to stand as its general election candidate in the newly-created St James constituency. The Prime Minister’s Office said the Mayaguana port project will be developed in three phases, with the first involving construction of a “temporary marine offloading facility” and a deep water port. The second stage will see the construction of a cruise ship terminal, and the final phase involves developing a “deep water transshipment port and terminal for larger vessels, plus adjacent land development and handling components”. “Over the coming months, work will move into detailed planning, including economic and environmental assessments, stakeholder engagement, regulatory approvals and detailed designs. The project team’s preliminary estimate anticipates approximately 2,000 full-time jobs over the life of the project,” the Government statement added. No mention was made on whether the necessary financing has yet been secured. This is also not the first time that the Government has sought to create, and stimulate, economic activity

on Mayaguana via a PPP focused on major infrastructure developments such as a shipping port and enhanced airport. A similar effort, which saw the Christie administration partner with the Boston-based I-Group, fizzled out with little to none of the promised development and economic activity ever emerging. The original deal, signed back in 2006 for a $1.8bn development, was structured as a 50/50 joint venture between the Government, via the Hotel Corporation, and the I-Group, with both parties owning the development project under the umbrella of the Mayaguana Development Company. The original deal included 9,999 acres, but this was revised by the Ingraham administration. It was scaled back to 5,825 acres, with the developers to start with 2,912 acres. The first phase of the I-Group’s Mayaguana development called for the construction of an airstrip to accommodate Dash-8 traffic, an airport terminal, a marina and construction of a 25-room boutique hotel. This phase was anticipated to be an investment of between $24-$32m, with the next phase intended to see the construction of a $50$75m high end luxury resort in Mayaguana.

PARTNER - from page B1 economic activity in Mayaguana and across the south-east Bahamas”, the Government said the development - if successful - would develop transhipment and storage facilities for container shipping and bulk cargo, along with the necessary support services and utilities.

“Mayaguana sits close to strategic shipping lanes used by vessels transiting toward the Panama Canal and other major ports, placing the island at a crossroads between the Americas and Europe. This PPP positions Mayaguana to play a stronger role in regional trade, cruise activity and related services,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in

PAGE 8, Thursday, January 8, 2026

Abaco resort 15th marina in purchaser’s portfolio ACQUIRE - from page B1 work but have career opportunities here. “And then, as our expansion happens and our team development happens, we want to establish a culture here at Bluff House where we are also enhancing the skill sets and the capabilities of people on the island so they really grow. So that's our goal. “The team will grow as the facility grows. But the biggest thing is to make sure that when we do that, we are setting people up for huge success, and we want to be a very good employer for people and they love working here. So the team will grow, and the property will grow, and all of those things will hopefully happen in conjunction.”

To address concerns about the lack of skilled workers on Abaco, Mr Cameron said these can be taught and all that is needed is “people that are willing to work and are excited about it”. “We have a thing we talk about in our company all the time,” he added. “It's called servant leadership. You know, our job is to serve our team, and then our team can serve our customers... “If we've got people that are willing to work and are excited about it, we can bring in bartender trainers, we can bring in chef trainers. We can bring in skilled labourers, handymen, housekeeping, where we bring people in and teach the skills. In the US you're always within five minutes of some training facility or some training spot. “So our thought, whether we send people to different

Botanical gardens site ‘must be kept going’ DESTINATION - from page B1 water sports activities were impossible. “Yes, that’s the ultimate plan,” Mr Basden confirmed, “but I don’t want to make too much comment at this time. We purchased the Chukka franchise ourselves, and we’re taking over the Garden of the Groves’ management and do water sports for Carnival. I’ve been in water sports for 30 years. We just got the [Chukka] franchise. I don’t want to make any formal comments on that at this time.” Chukka, which is headquartered in Jamaica, now lists Grand Bahama as one of the Caribbean destinations where it operates on its

website alongside the likes of Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Belize, the US Virgin Islands and Grand Turk in Turks & Caicos. Founded in the 1980s by Danny Melville and his family, it boasts of offering 122 tours and employing 1,200 staff across the Caribbean while catering to 700,000 tourists annually. A franchise model, where the local operation is Bahamian-owned, would likely be Chukka’s only option for entering this market given that tour, excursion and attraction businesses are reserved exclusively for 100 percent local ownership under the National Investment Policy. Denise Neely, the current Garden of the Groves

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL The Public is hereby advised that I, YVAUGHNIA TAMELL SAUNDERS of 19A Turtle Cove, Seahorse Village, P. O. Box F 44379, Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas, Mother of TARYN SANDRA JANETTE RUSSELL a minor intend to change my child’s name to TARYN SANDRAFAYE RUSSELL. If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Deputy Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

NOTICE

THE TRIBUNE training opportunities or we bring in trainers to then train the team, we would much rather find somebody that's grown up on Green Turtle Cay that's done it,” Mr Cameron continued. “So our job is to come in and create procedures and processes. So, you know, the three pieces of success is you have got to have a product, you got to have people, you got to have process... “We've got a fantastic product. Green Turtle Beach is gorgeous. Views are great. We have fantastic people. So some of the expertise we hope to bring is the processes - streamlining processes, with software, training and support. And that's really our job; support the team. Bring in maybe some updated new software and training. The skills can easily be trained, and some of those skills we're learning together with the team.” The Bluff House will also see the addition of more hotel rooms, swimming pools, another restaurant

and other features, according to Mr Cameron. One of the most important renovations includes placing a house back on the Bluff, which is where the resort’s name came from, he said. “There's a beach restaurant, and there's the boathouse restaurant,” he said. “There's the marina. So you have the marina, two restaurants, a pickle ball court, nine villas we manage and eight hotel rooms. The initial property is a 12-acre parcel that goes sea to sea. It goes from White Sound to the sea of Abaco. “We're going to be building and selling two, three and four-bedroom villas. We're going to be expanding the resort... We're going to be building more hotel rooms. We're going to be adding additional swimming pools, additional amenities, and putting a restaurant back on top of the hill. “We're putting the house back on top of the Bluff. We're bringing the Bluff House back to its original

name, because that's what was there that really made the place so special. There was an original house there.” Ms Ongley added: “In all of our investments we want to not lose the charm and the authenticity of what we fell in love with here. So the grand scheme of things is we want to invest in the future, but our goal is to never lose the charm and the authenticity of the Bluff House.” Having created meaningful relationships with the community on Green Turtle Cay, Mr and Mrs Cameron said they also "fell in love with the team” at the Bluff House. They said their investment in the resort is born from their love for The Bahamas. “This is a lifestyle dream for us,” Mr Cameron said. “It's a dream come true. We're not doing it only for investment. We're doing it for lifestyle. We're really passionate about the community. We love The Bahamas, but specifically we love Green Turtle. We fully

envision ourselves, all four of the partners, being integrated, really being part of this community. “We have gotten to know so many people already, but there are so many more people, and we're excited to get to know everyone [and] be a part of the community. Molly has been a huge resource because, of course, she knows everybody but we have just fallen in love with the community. We envision our kids growing up there, spending their summers there, and we're excited to bring that tradition to be part of our families... “It's like a gem of a property that we see so much potential. It just needs a little capital and a little momentum to get it moving. So we're excited. It fits well into our portfolio. Our core competency has been more in the marina space, but we're really excited about learning the world of the resort and villa rental aspect as well.”

president, disclosed to Tribune Business that the management agreement with Mr Basden and Chukka also includes “the intent to purchase” the botanical gardens operation should the tie-up progressed as planned. She, too, confirmed that the management changeover and transition was in its early stages and moving “kind of slow” with both parties “figuring out” and “feeling our way” through the arrangement. Ms Neely, though, said the process was likely to speed up and become much clearer once probate of the Gates’ estate was completed. “They have taken over on a management contract as of December 1,” she said of Chukka. “We’re still going through a slow handover. It’s a management agreement with the intent to purchase. I’m not sure how much I can say right now. It’s going kind of slow. We’re figuring out a whole lot. “Since Mr Gates passed it’s in probate. Every day we’re learning ourselves what needs to be done. We make plans as to its management with the management agreement. We are feeling our way through. Everything hinges on the probate. Once that is completed we’ll have a clearer understanding. It’s continually moving through.”

Ms Neely said Mr Basden and Chukka are likely poised to build on the heritage established by the Garden of the Groves, which was created in 1973 by Wallace Groves, one of Freeport’s “founding fathers” and his wife, Georgette, and maintain it as an attraction and destination for Bahamians, residents and tourists alike. “That’s pretty the way that Garden of the Groves operates and functions now,” she added. “It’s always been a destination for cruise passengers, as well as other guests and locals. No improvements have started yet, and the Garden of the Groves is running the way it has been in the past. We’re focusing on the administrative side and hand over happening. There have been no physical changes yet. “The Garden welcomes visitors every day. Since Celebration Key happened, in the last part of the season we’ve seen an increase in business. The pick-up was significant. We have tour operators, taxi drivers and other guests coming. Chukka wants to upgrade the Garden at present. It will be a slow process, bit by bit, watching the market and what Carnival is doing. “They do have plans on the table,” Ms Neely added of Chukka. “At the end of the day, it should be keeping things the way locals

have always known it to be, and what he Gardens are intended to be, but moving to a new type of operations. They’re not going to move away from that [heritage]. It’s just improving, and that’s going to take time and using the Garden. “We want to see it continuing to grow. Grand Bahama is evolving, so everything around it is evolving as well. It’s keeping with the times. The staff are still here. Everybody is still employed and operating the same way and working harmoniously together. We don’t know what the final thing will look like, but we know what we hope. We’re hoping everything can happen soon.” It is unclear how any purchase by Mr Basden and Chukka would be structured, and if this would only involve the Garden of the Groves operation and business as opposed to the 12-acre real estate it sits on. Tribune Business research showed the property is owned by the Grand Bahama Development Company (DevCO), which in turn is owned 50/50 by Hutchison Whampoa and the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) Port Group Ltd. It was previously leased to Parrott Jungle of Miami, but Mrs Gates, of Grand Bahama Nature Tours, and Michelle Hanson took it

over in fall 2007 after the former walked away following the devastation inflicted on Garden of the Groves in 2004 by hurricanes Frances and Jeanne. They formed Bahamas Parks, Gardens & Recreation to execute the project and restored it to a facility with 10,000 species of flowers, shrubs, trees and plant life that attracts birds and other wildlife. Tribune Business sources voiced optimism that the deal with Mr Basden and Chukka will boost what is a prominent and well-known location in Freeport and wider Grand Bahama. “It’s got to be kept going,” one said. “It’s a wonderful property and needs to be used properly.” Another confirmed: “Chukka are not taking over the lease but have a management contract with Erika Gates’ company. It’s good news. They will obviously be bringing customers and Garden of the Groves is an important tourism asset. I think it’s good news.” Garden of the Groves is around a 20-minute drive from Carnival’s Celebration Key project, and a contact said of Mr Basden and Chukka: “This is a bit of an expansion of their programme to offer their guests something to do when they can’t do water sports because of the weather.”

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that READGE DEVIL of P.O. Box EE15491 White 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that BERRIN FENELUS of Eneas Street, 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that JASMINE JOSEPH 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that JEAN ROLAND CHARLES of Marsh Harbour, Abaco, 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that SULTANE ANNESCA of Ford Avenue, Blue Hill 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that CHANSEOR PIERRANT of The Bluff, Eleuthera, The Bahamas, 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that ETIENNE DALMOND of Marsh Harbour, Abaco, 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that BERNISE THOMAS of Marsh, Abaco, The Bahamas, 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE is hereby given that ALMITERNE AUGUSTIN of Firetrail 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 8th day of January 2026 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 9

Minister: No complaints from other security force branches PREMIUM - from page B3 being able to get service,” he added. Mr Munroe said both the Department of Corrections Staff Association and the Defence Force association meet with him regularly to raise concerns. However, the Police Staff Association has chosen not to meet directly with the ministry.

He explained that both the Defence Force and Department of Corrections have asked the ministry to reverse the policy on dependent coverage for new members joining after 2023 but, as far as he is aware, the Colina policy has not received any reports of service denials from these groups. “When they first came in, they met with me. I think once or twice. The

Bahamas fire losses ‘unprecedented’ in ‘25 PROTECT - from page B1 the increasing frequency and severity of hurricanes. “The negotiations were completed,” Mr Saunders confirmed to Tribune Business. “We ended up with a stalemate between the reinsurers and ourselves. The price has remained flat, the terms and conditions remain flat. “We were able to successfully argue that the losses in Jamaica [from Melissa] were a Jamaican event, so premiums elsewhere should not increase, but they argue we had $50m worth of fire-related losses so they cannot decrease it. It was a stalemate, but we were

happy we got the capacity we were looking for. “We are happy there was no rate increase for the territories we write business for, and will use the facultative market for some higher risks and meeting the capacity we will need. It was a stalemate.” AML Foods, the BISXlisted owner and operator of the Solomon’s and Cost Right food stores, previously revealed it received a more than $23m payout from its insurers to cover the damage and loss caused by the mid-April blaze that destroyed the Old Trail Road locations. Speaking to the fire-related payouts that

Correctional Staff Association meets with me regularly, and if they ever have an issue, they ask for a special meeting and they get it. I meet with the ranks of the Defence Force at least once a year to entertain all of their concerns,” said Mr Munroe. “The same thing is open to the Police Staff Association if they wanted to meet with us over the issue, they could have. Clearly, they don’t want to meet with us. They want to put this out in the public, and that’s what they have done.” He said the issues raised have been

forwarded to the Ministry of National Security’s permanent secretary to have it investigated. Shanendon Cartwright, the Free National Movement (FNM) deputy leader, said the allegations of $100m in unpaid premiums are “shocking, but sadly not surprising”. Mr Cartwright criticised the Government for failing to meet what he called its most basic obligations, adding: “There is no excuse for what has been revealed. Police officers who are legally entitled to dependent health insurance are

now being denied coverage for their spouses and children. “This is not a clerical issue. According to the Police Staff Association, it is the direct result of the Government owing approximately $100m in unpaid health insurance premiums. “While this government boasts about record revenues and so-called surpluses, it has failed to meet one of its most basic obligations. It has failed to take care of the police officers who put their lives on the line every single day to

keep Bahamians safe,“ he added. “This is a government that finds money for private jets and lavish travel, including spending more than $1m on a single overseas trip. This is a government that has handed out more than $400m in no-bid contracts to political friends and insiders. Yet when it comes time to pay health insurance premiums for police officers, or to protect the well-being of their families, suddenly there is delay and blatant disregard.”

Bahamian property and casualty insurers endured in 2025, Mr Saunders added: “We had some restaurant fires [PrimeOne] out west and normal fires that happen with homeowners. It was an unprecedented fire loss year in 2025. “We were not involved in the large fires. but had our share of smaller ones. It could have been worse. We could have been in Jamaica where we would have had to help pay that loss. All in all, were we satisfied with it? No. Were we dissatisfied with it? No. Stalemate.” Foreign reinsurers largely dictate Bahamian insurance premium costs due to the domestic industry’s heavy dependence on them to help fully underwrite risks domiciled in this nation. Bahamian property and casualty insurers, due to their relatively thin

capital bases, have to purchase huge quantities of reinsurance annually to enable them to underwrite the multi-billion risks present in this nation. This means that the premium prices Bahamian households and businesses pay for coverage are largely determined by what reinsurers charge, making the annual treaty renewal negotiations with local carriers critical in determining these costs. Stung by previous multi-billion dollar losses from major hurricanes hitting the US and Caribbean, as well as other catastrophic event payouts, many reinsurers previously either pulled out of the region altogether or reduced the capacity and availability of coverage here. The reduction in reinsurance supply resulted in Bahamian insurance

premiums increasing in cost by as much as 20 percent since 2022. This resulted in escalating affordability concerns, and fears that growing numbers of Bahamian homeowners and businesses were being increasingly priced out of the insurance market and unable to afford the necessary protection for arguably their most important asset their real estate. Timothy Ingraham, chief executive of Summit Insurance Company, through which Insurance Management places much of its property and casualty business, echoed Mr Saunders in confirming that all-perils insurance premium prices will likely remain “stable” in 2026 compared to last year with an adequate supply of coverage available to clients.

“Treaty renewals have been completed with capacity not being an issue,” Mr Ingraham said via messaged reply to Tribune Business inquiries. “This means that cover should not be hard to find. “Pricing for this region remained firm as reinsurers likely were reminded by damage from Melissa of the loss potential in the region. Rates should remain stable and we do not anticipate any increase in rates for 2026.” Jamaica is still calculating the total losses and damage from Melissa, with the initial estimates placing the latter as high as $8bn. Projections for insured losses were as high as $4bn, with payouts for onshore property damage pegged at between $2.4bn and $4.2bn.

It's unclear if any country would increase oil shipments to Cuba after the U.S. attack on Venezuela. The Mexican government has avoided commenting on its future plans. Exports to Cuba represent a very small percentage of total exports — 3.3% — but their economic profitability is questionable, and Pemex's production continues to decline. From January to Sept. 30, 2025, Mexico shipped 19,200 barrels per day to Cuba: 17,200 barrels of crude oil and 2,000 barrels of refined products, according to the most recent report that state-owned oil company

Petróleos Mexicanos submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Pemex did not immediately respond to a request for data. Jorge Piñón, of the Energy Institute at the University of Texas at Austin, who tracks shipments using oil tracking services and satellite technology, shared similar data this week with The Associated Press for the same period. He had tracked 22,000 barrels per day and said that the figure dropped to 7,000 barrels after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to Mexico City in September 2025.

Meanwhile, in the last three months, Maduro's government exported an average of 35,000 barrels a day to Cuba, approximately a quarter of the island's total demand, according to Piñón. The academic saw no likelihood that Mexico would increase its shipments: "The U.S. government would go bonkers," he said. "There will be more pressure from the United States regarding Cuba," said Oscar Ocampo of the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness, adding that oil will predictably be one of the areas under pressure, a view shared by many experts.

Mexico becomes crucial fuel supplier to Cuba but pledges no extra shipments after Maduro toppled By MARÍA VERZA Associated Press AS THE United States prepares to seize control of Venezuelan oil and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump hardens its stance toward Cuba, Mexico has emerged as a key fuel supplier to Havana. It's a role that could further complicate already strained relations with the Trump administration, even though the Mexican government insists that exports to the island have not increased. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged on Wednesday that "with the current situation in Venezuela, Mexico has become an important supplier" of crude oil to Cuba, but asserted that "no more oil is being sent than has been sent historically; there is no specific shipment."

She added that those shipments are made via "contracts" or as "humanitarian aid," but offered no concrete figures on the number of barrels exported. 'The blackouts are going to intensify' Following the 1959 revolution that toppled dictator Fulgencio Batista, the U.S. imposed a trade embargo on Cuba in response to the nationalization of American-owned property. Under the embargo — long denounced by many countries, including Mexico — Cubans have suffered economic and energy crises, driving hundreds of thousands of Cubans to migrate, especially to the United States. Blackouts that last up to eight hours and long lines at gas stations are routine across Cuba. José Martínez, a 65-yearold former construction worker and resident of Old

NOTICE

CAOBA INVESTMENTS LIMITED

(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 7th day of January, 2026. The Liquidator is Windermere Corporate Management Limited, 200 Sterling Commons East, Harbour Drive, Paradise Island, Bahamas. WINDERMERE CORPORATE MANAGEMENT LIMITED Liquidator

Havana whose power goes out daily, said the upheaval in Venezuela will impact Cuba. "The blackouts are going to intensify with all this," he said, adding that he believes the U.S. attacked because they want Venezuela's oil. "They own the world." Meanwhile, street vendor Yeison Gálvez, 37, worries about the impact on transportation: "For as long as I can remember, we've depended on Venezuela for fuel. We're going to be walking even more."

PAGE 10, Thursday, January 8, 2026

THE TRIBUNE

JUDGE PARKER

CARPE DIEM

MARVIN BLONDIE

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE

TIGER

CALVIN & HOBBES

DENNIS THE MENACE Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday Best described as a number crossword, the task in Kakuro is to fill all of the empty squares, using numbers 1 to 9, so the sum of each horizontal block equals the number to its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the number on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once. The difficulty level of the Conceptis Kakuro increases from Monday to Sunday.

MICRO CROSSwORD

CHALLENGER

Yesterday’s Answers

Yesterday’s

Yesterday’s

Sudoku Answer

Kakuro Answer

THE TRIBUNE

Thursday, January 8, 2026, PAGE 11

US seeks to assert its control over Venezuelan oil with tanker seizures and sales worldwide By KONSTANTIN TOROPIN, JOSH BOAK, JILL LAWLESS and MICHAEL BIESECKER Associated Press PRESIDENT Donald Trump's administration on Wednesday sought to assert its control over Venezuelan oil, seizing a pair of sanctioned tankers transporting petroleum and announcing plans to relax some sanctions so the U.S. can oversee the sale of Venezuela's petroleum worldwide. Trump's administration intends to control the distribution of Venezuela's oil products globally following its ouster of President Nicolás Maduro in a surprise nighttime raid. Besides the United States enforcing an existing oil embargo, the Energy Department says the "only oil transported in and out of Venezuela" will be through approved channels consistent with U.S. law and national security interests. That level of control over the world's largest proven reserves of crude oil could give the Trump administration a broader hold on oil supplies globally in ways that could enable it to influence prices. Both moves reflect the Republican administration's determination to make good on its effort to control the next steps in Venezuela through its vast oil resources after Trump has pledged the U.S. will "run" the country. Vice President JD Vance said in an interview the U.S. can "control" Venezuela's

"purse strings" by dictating where its oil can be sold. "We control the energy resources, and we tell the regime, you're allowed to sell the oil so long as you serve America's national interest," Vance said in an interview to air on FOX News Channel's "Jesse Watters Primetime." The vice president added, "And that's how we exert incredible pressure on that country without wasting a single American life." Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that the oil taken from the sanctioned vessels seized in the North Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea would be sold as part of the deal announced by Trump on Tuesday under which Venezuela would provide up to 50 million barrels of oil to the U.S. Venezuela's interim authorities "want that oil that was seized to be part of this deal," Rubio told reporters after briefing lawmakers Wednesday about the Maduro operation. "They understand that the only way they can move oil and generate revenue and not have economic collapse is if they cooperate and work with the United States." Seizing 2 more vessels U.S. European Command said on social media that the merchant vessel Bella 1 was seized in the North Atlantic for "violations of U.S. sanctions." The U.S. had been pursuing the tanker since last month after it tried to evade a

blockade on sanctioned oil vessels around Venezuela. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revealed U.S. forces also took control of the M Sophia in the Caribbean Sea. Noem said on social media that both ships were "either last docked in Venezuela or en route to it." The two ships join at least two others that were taken by U.S. forces last month — the Skipper and the Centuries. The Bella 1 had been cruising across the Atlantic nearing the Caribbean on Dec. 15 when it abruptly turned and headed north, toward Europe. The change in direction came days after the first U.S. tanker seizure of a ship on Dec. 10 after it had left Venezuela carrying oil. When the U.S. Coast Guard tried to board the Bella 1, it fled. U.S. European Command said a Coast Guard vessel had tracked the ship "pursuant to a warrant issued by a U.S. federal court." As the U.S. pursued it, the Bella 1 was renamed Marinera and flagged to Russia, shipping databases show. A U.S. official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military operations, said the ship's crew had painted a Russian flag on the side of the hull. The Russian Foreign Ministry said it had information about Russian nationals among the Marinera's crew and, in a statement carried by Russia's state news agencies Tass and RIA Novosti,

FUEL tanker trucks unload fuel at a gas station in Caracas, Venezuela, Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026. Photo:Cristian Hernandez/AP demanded that "the American side ensure humane and dignified treatment of them, strictly respect their rights and interests, and not hinder their speedy return to their homeland." Separately, a senior Russian lawmaker, Andrei Klishas, decried the U.S. action as "blatant piracy." The Justice Department is investigating crew members of the Bella 1 vessel for failing to obey Coast Guard orders and "criminal charges will be pursued against all culpable actors," Attorney General Pam Bondi said. "The Department of Justice is monitoring several other vessels for similar enforcement action — anyone on any vessel who fails to obey instructions of the Coast Guard or other federal officials will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," Bondi said on X. The ship had been sanctioned by the U.S. in 2024 on allegations of smuggling cargo for a company linked to Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran. Easing some sanctions to sell Venezuela's oil The Trump administration, meanwhile, is

"selectively" removing sanctions to enable the shipping and sale of Venezuelan oil to markets worldwide, according to an outline of the policies published Wednesday by the Energy Department. The sales are slated to begin immediately with 30 million to 50 million barrels of oil. The U.S. government said the sales "will continue indefinitely," with the proceeds settling in U.S.-controlled accounts at "globally recognized banks." The money would be disbursed to the U.S. and Venezuelan populations at the "discretion" of Trump's government. Venezuelan state-owned oil company PDVSA said it is in negotiations with the U.S. government for the sale of crude oil. "This process is developed under schemes similar to those in force with international companies, such as Chevron, and is based on a strictly commercial transaction, with criteria of legality, transparency and benefit for both parties," the company said in the statement. The U.S. plans to authorize the importation of oil field equipment, parts and services to increase Venezuela's oil production,

which has been roughly 1 million barrels a day. The Trump administration has indicated it also will invest in the electricity grid to increase production and the quality of life for people in Venezuela, whose economy has been unraveling amid changes to foreign aid and cuts to state subsidies, making necessities, including food, unaffordable to millions. Ships said to be part of a shadow fleet Noem said both seized ships were part of a shadow fleet of rusting oil tankers that smuggle oil for countries facing sanctions, such as Venezuela, Russia and Iran. After the seizure of the now-named Marinera, which open-source maritime tracking sites showed was between Scotland and Iceland earlier Wednesday, the U.K. defense ministry said Britain's military provided support, including surveillance aircraft. "This ship, with a nefarious history, is part of a Russian-Iranian axis of sanctions evasion which is fueling terrorism, conflict, and misery from the Middle East to Ukraine," U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey said.

PAGE 12, Thursday, January 8, 2026

THE TRIBUNE

Georgia Republicans move to scrap state income tax by 2032 despite concerns GEORGIA Republican Lt. Gov. Burt Jones speaks at a rally kicking off his 2026 campaign for governor, Aug. 26, 2025, in Flovilla, Ga. Photo:Jeff Amy/AP

By JEFF AMY Associated Press ELIMINATING state income taxes sounds great to many voters, but Republicans backing the push in multiple states still face questions about whether such big tax cuts can be made without raising other taxes or sharply cutting state funding for education, health care and other services. Georgia on Wednesday became the latest state to launch a bid to abolish its personal income tax, with Republican leaders in the Senate backing a proposal to zero it out by 2032. This year, Georgia’s personal income tax is projected to collect about $16.5 billion, or 44% of the state’s general revenue. The push is driven by politics. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, the Republican who leads the state Senate, has made eliminating income taxes a centerpiece of his 2026 campaign for governor. State Sen. Blake Tillery, a Vidalia Republican who led a committee to abolish the tax, is among candidates to succeed Jones as lieutenant governor. “This is the first vote that we are going to get to take to address affordability,” Tillery said. But it’s unclear if the proposal will pass. Georgia House Republicans may want to continue nibbling away at the tax in smaller bites, preferring a “measured” approach. Republican House Speaker Jon Burns of Newington said Wednesday that his big 2026 goal is to eliminate property taxes for homeowners, but said he’s willing to consider the Senate plan. Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, serving his last year, has been cool to total elimination of the income tax. He declined to comment

Wednesday on the Senate plan, but spokesperson Carter Chapman said Kemp wants “to continue lowering taxes and putting more money in Georgians’ pockets as he has throughout his term.” The state’s Democratic minority opposes the move, saying it would mostly benefit high earners and the state needs money to provide services. Multiple GOP-led states seek tax cuts Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi and Missouri have all set goals to abolish the personal income tax, joining eight other states that don’t tax personal income. Eight other states besides Georgia are cutting personal income tax rates this year, according to the Tax Foundation, a Washington, D.C., group generally skeptical of higher taxes. “We’ve seen a lot of states cut their income tax rates in the last four or five years, especially during the COVID-19

pandemic and coming out of it,” said Aravind Boddupalli, senior researcher at the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center in Washington, D.C. Supporters say cuts help a state compete for new residents and businesses, pointing to growth in Texas and Florida, two states without personal income taxes. “Your income tax is a tax on productivity,” said Manish Bhatt, who studies state taxes for the Tax Foundation. “If you are taxing productivity, you are potentially losing out on economic gains.” Front-loading cuts for lower earners Georgia has already been cutting income taxes, taking what was once a top income tax rate of 6% and lowering it to a 5.19% flat rate. Republicans broadly support a further cut for individual and corporate taxpayers to 4.99% this year, worth an estimated

$800 million in foregone tax revenue. The Senate plan would then freeze the corporate rate and focus on individual tax cuts. It proposes in 2027 to exempt the first $50,000 of income for a single person or $100,000 for a married couple, up from $12,000 and $24,000 now. Faced with Democratic criticism about affordability, the big increase in exempt income is central to Republicans’ own arguments about how they can make money stretch farther. About 70% of Georgians reported less than $100,000 of taxable income in 2024, according to state figures. “It is a plan that gives benefits first to hardworking families,” Tillery said. The initial rate cut, plus the exemption proposal, would lower Georgia revenue by $3.8 billion in its 2027 budget year. Tillery says the state could pay by using surplus tax revenue and shifting back to paying for capital expenditures through borrowing instead

of cash. But those moves probably wouldn’t cover the foregone revenue even in the first year, much less $13 billion more in cuts to get to zero. Tillery said revenue should be bolstered by trimming business income and sales tax breaks, saying legislators should reduce “corporate welfare.” But lawmakers and Kemp have balked at curtailing those measures in recent years. Some tax cuts backfired Tax cuts haven’t always been a political bonanza. In Kansas, after Republicans under Gov. Sam Brownback cut income taxes steeply more than a decade ago, voters revolted at budget cuts and lawmakers imposed multiple tax increases to cover persistent budget shortfalls, including restoring some income tax cuts. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly won her first term in 2018 by framing the race as a referendum on Brownback’s policies.

“State income taxes are only bad if you fundamentally don’t believe that the services, the public investments that state governments provide, are worth anything,” said Matt Gardner, a senior fellow with the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy . In Missouri, Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe and GOP legislative leaders have made phasing out the state’s income tax a top priority for the session starting Wednesday. They’re looking to expand sales taxes to services which currently are untaxed to help offset lost revenue. “We want to do this in a smart, efficient way that’s not going to have the state go off some sort of fiscal cliff,” Missouri House Majority Leader Alex Riley told The Associated Press on Tuesday. But expanding sales taxes could fall more heavily on poorer taxpayers.