01112022 BUSINESS AND FEATURES

business@tribunemedia.net

TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2022

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Bahamas sees $715m gain if ‘infrastructure gap’ closed

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net THE Bahamas stands to gain a $715m boost if it invests just $31m to close the “digital infrastructure gap” between itself and the world’s leading economies, a multilateral lender is arguing.

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), in its just-released Caribbean Quarterly Economic Bulletin, asserts that The Bahamas’ could enjoy economic returns 23.3 times’ greater than the investment outlay required to bring its broadband and mobile Internet networks up to the same standard as Organisation for Economic and Co-Operation and Development (OECD) countries.

Doing so, the IDB argued, would increase Bahamian economic output (gross domestic product) by 5.6 percent over a six-year period, will also generating productivity gains over the same timeframe. And, with

INTER-AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK

• Nation to enjoy return 23’ times $31m outlay • IDB predicts 4,000 job gain, productivity up • Warns on Internet cost, download speeds

COVID-19 having driven many companies and workers to Internet-dependent remote working, the lender forecast that eliminating the digital divide will help create 4,000 jobs.

The IDB report did not break down exactly where the $30.7m needs to be invested, or provide the underlying calculations that gave rise to its projections, although it referenced other studies that it drew upon. The forecasts, though, strengthen the case for increased private and public sector investment in The

Bahamas’ digital transformation as an area that can generate great returns for a relatively modest outlay.

The report also acknowledged that The Bahamas is ahead of the leading developed economies when it comes to the nation-wide mobile broadband coverage provided by the combination of Aliv and the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC), but warned that was a potential impediment to greater penetration and usage.

In particular, the IDB said the monthly fee for a fixed Internet broadband connection in The Bahamas was some 113 percent higher than the average for OECD states on a purchasing power parity (PPP) basis, while mobile Internet fees were 24 percent higher.

And Internet download/ connection speeds in The Bahamas were said to be 50 percent, and “close to onethird”, of those in OECD nations (the US and major European countries) for

SEE PAGE 4

COVID shutdown COVID quarantine change: for auto dealer’s ‘Right direction on all fronts’ ‘major generator’

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net ONE of an auto dealer’s “two major generators” has likely been forced to close until tomorrow after almost one-third of staff tested positive for COVID-19 amid the latest case surge.

Fred Albury, the Auto Mall’s principal, told Tribune Business “just about every sizeable company in this country” has been hit by staff shortages related to the Omicron variant’s spread after the dealership was last week forced to close its service department when multiple employees tested positive for the virus.

Voicing surprise that the Government has yet to reintroduce more curbs to crack down on large social gatherings, he added that worker absences and partial closures had become “a part of doing business” that was exacerbating the challenges Bahamian auto dealers face in obtaining sufficient vehicles from their overseas suppliers.

Factory backlogs, microchip shortages and global supply chain shortages have left many companies with too few vehicles to meet consumer demand, Fred Albury said, arguing that greater product availability could boost the industry’s new auto sales to up to 1,900 in 2022

SEE PAGE 6

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

THE Government’s adjustments to the COVID isolation and quarantine rules have strengthened the “building blocks of travel confidence” for the peak winter tourism season, a top hotelier says.

Robert Sands, the Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association’s (BHTA) president, told Tribune Business that the country’s largest economic sector “certainly got the reduction we were looking for” in

the changes unveiled by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

“The reductions are certainly in the right direction, and we support that,” he said. “It’s certainly something we’ve advocated for.

All of these initiatives are building blocks to travel confidence, and the more these things are adjusted and corrected, the more consumer confidence increases and travel continues unabated.

“They are more aligned with best practices. These are all steps on a

SEE PAGE 7

Cabinet yet to decide on jobless benefit extension

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net CABINET will likely decide today whether to further extend the Government-funded COVID-19 unemployment benefit that was due to expire at end-December 2021.

Myles Laroda, minister of state in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for the National

Insurance Board (NIB), told Tribune Business last night that the matter would probably discussed at today’s full Cabinet meeting although this was not definitive.

“That decision has not been made yet,” he said of an extension.

“Cabinet will probably decide on that tomorrow [today]. I don’t control the agenda, but it’s something

SEE PAGE 10

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Food prices: ‘What goes up may not come down’

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net SUPER Value’s principal has warned Bahamian shoppers to brace for the possibility that increased food prices may be here to stay, warning: “I don’t believe in what goes up must come down.”

Rupert Roberts told Tribune Business that no one in the food industry knew whether the anticipated prices rises, resulting from supply chain woes and other post-COVID factors, will prevail for one or five years but said prices rarely came down after an increase.

While estimating that the 13-store supermarket chain has “put through” cost increases on a small minority of its 30,000 product lines to-date, he added that the possibility of up to 20 percent price hikes “on most items” by year-end 2022 could not be discounted based on US inflation estimates and information he was receiving from suppliers in The Bahamas’ northern neighbour.

“I was talking to Senator Michael Halkitis, and he asked me the same question,” Mr Roberts replied, when this newspaper

RUPERT ROBERTS queried how long projected increases in food prices may last for. “I said: ‘Senator’, this could be a year, this could be five years.

“When we were talking to Thailand, trying to secure canned mackerel, they went from $29 to $42.

Those fishermen are not going to take $29 for their can of mackerel any more.

I don’t believe in what goes up must come down.

We’ve seen a lot just stay up there.”

Still, Mr Roberts voiced optimism that Super Value’s pre-emptive buying and inventory build-up will hold off the worst of any price increases until “more like the end of March”. He added: “We probably have 30,000 SKUs (stock-keeping units). The larger stores have 30,000 items. I suspect so far that there’s 200-300

SEE PAGE 8

PAGE 2, Tuesday, January 11, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

CORPORATE CHALLENGES THAT LIE AHEAD IN 2022

F

rom the start of the COVID pandemic, business communities have been battered by shockwave after shockwave, resulting in a constantly-changing landscape. Despite the seemingly moderate progress, corporate leaders must overcome various challenges before they are able to establish a new work environment in 2022.

In February 2021, I was invited to present my views on ‘What chief executives and practitioners should care about in 2021’ at the inaugural Risk Regulatory Outlook 2021, hosted by the Bahamas Institute of Financial Services (BIFS) and Next Level Solutions. At that time, I implored the audience to evaluate their corporate structure to ensure they are strategically aligned; place a greater emphasis on regulatory change management; and ensure sufficient attention is channelled towards human capacity management to avoid disruptions.

As it relates directly to Boards of Directors, by midyear 2021, the Harvard Law School Forum on corporate governance had reported: “As we emerge from the pandemic, boards and management teams should continue to assess their corporate purpose, strategy, risk management procedures and board committee structures to optimise their ability to deal with the ever-proliferating number and complexity of business risks and opportunities they must navigate.”

The Forum’s release, dated June 28, 2021, noted that research had identified more than 15 troubling areas for top executives and senior management that included: Pressures on corporations to take public positions on controversial legislation and political or regulatory matters, and activities and disclosures regarding lobbying and other political spending; and human capital management, including wages, safety, health, training, retraining and retirement benefits plus related

disclosure issues. Additionally, as we fast forward to January 6, 2022, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP reported that in America alone: “2021 was a busy year for corporate governance matters, with new legislation passed early in the year and new enforcement priorities emerging under the Biden administration.”

Against this backdrop, I will identify areas that businesses should consider as priorities in 2022.

Human capital recalibration The workforce/employer relationship will be topof-mind for institutions.

Hard decisions are looming regarding vaccinated versus unvaccinated employees, with major Wall Street banks such as Citigroup already announcing that, for US-based operations, as of January 14 it will place all unvaccinated employees on unpaid leave with a plan to end work engagements by the end of January 2022.

Moreover, the Board of Directors will grapple with stepping beyond oversight responsibility for workforce culture as an organisational asset. Michael Peregrine, Forbes’ senior contributor, explained that, ultimately, one of the greatest challenges will be to support and guide management in responding to the circumstances that prompted the ‘Great Resignation’, and their impact on employee commitment to the traditional work ethic.

Vendor risk management In vendor risk management (VRM), service providers or IT suppliers are scrutinised to ensure they do not create unacceptable disruptions or adverse impacts on business performance. As the digital business world continues to evolve, it is essential that your company understands the forces that will shape its future. Due to accelerated digital transformation, companies are now reliant on multiple third-party vendors.

These relationships require secure, transparent and adequately monitored contracts, and service level agreements,

By

Derek

Smith to ensure risks such as cyber security are sufficiently managed. In fact, Gartner forecasts that by 2025, 60 percent of companies will use cyber security risk as a main element in how they conduct business deals with third parties.

Know Your Customer-Anti-Money Laundering alternate data solutions In the KYC space, data quality problems are often cited as a major cause of false alerts, time-consuming investigations, customer reviews and inaccuracies in risk profiles. Thus, using external data to augment financial institutions’ internal data about customers and their behaviour has become a popular topic of discussion that will continue. A 360degree view of an existing or potential customer’s digital footprint can be collated, assessed and correlated in real-time with alternate data.

Conclusion In short, these and other hot-button topics are likely to influence the manner in which companies function to maintain and grow their market share.

NB: About Derek Smith Jr Derek Smith Jr. has been a governance, risk and compliance professional for more than 20 years. He has held positions at a TerraLex member law firm, a Wolfsburg Group member bank and a ‘big four’ accounting firm. Mr Smith is a certified anti-money laundering specialist (CAMS), and the compliance officer and money laundering reporting officer (MLRO) for CG Atlantic’s family of companies (member of Coralisle Group) for The Bahamas and Turks & Caicos Islands

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, January 11, 2022, PAGE 3

TAXI CHIEF CALLS FOR POLICE CRACKDOWN AT CRUISE PORT

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net

THE Bahamas Taxi Cab Union’s president is urging the Royal Bahamas Police Force to initiate a law and order crackdown outside the gates of the Nassau Cruise Port.

Wesley Ferguson told Tribune Business that the authorities must do more to combat drug peddlers and overcrowding resulting from taxi drivers, tour, scooter rental and other

operators all fighting for the same cruise passenger business.

“I want to shed some light on this ongoing saga at the Prince George Wharf,” he blasted. “Global Ports Holding (the cruise port operator) and the union are working assiduously trying to get law and order downtown. You have the drug pushers back there.

You have people doing scooter tours and taxi drivers all in one area.

Describing this crammed space as “total chaos” for all, and especially the tourists, Mr Ferguson said cruise

passengers were being harassed by drug pushers as well as legitimate tourism providers battling for trade.

“We have met with Global Ports over and over, and they are getting ready to shut down operations because the police are not co-operating with the various entities down there.

Instead of being proactive, they are being reactive,” Mr Ferguson said.

“These people are doing as they please. There’s no checks and balances. There is no accountability. They just do exactly whatever their minds tells them to do.

They have broken out into fights on several occasions.

There have been several fist fights down there at the dock, right in front of the tourists.

“Continual arguments and tug-of-war about who is supposed to be on the dock and who isn’t. There is no authority downtown.” Mr Ferguson said he has tried to speak with Paul Rolle, commissioner of police, on this matter, but has resorted to dealing with the tourism police.

“This has been going on for years, and it has gotten worse now

with COVID-19,” he added. “The police need to get together with the union and Nassau Cruise Port, and let’s get this thing nipped in the bud so they can occupy the police station that Nassau Cruise Port is building for them, so

Crypto exchange to ‘catapult Bahamas to world stage top’ ATTRACTING the world’s third largest cryptocurrency exchange could have the same impact for The Bahamas as Sir Sol Kerzner’s arrival and “catapult the country to the top of the world stage”.

Mario Carey, the well-known realtor and businessman, said: “When FTX, a leader in the crypto space, a company currently valued at more than $22bn, chose to set up its first international headquarters in The Bahamas, it sent a message to the world.

“Not only did it demonstrate ultimate confidence in The Bahamas, its presence will open doors for global and local business, enhance lending opportunities through fund-raising and force banks and others in the financial services space to compete for their own survival or success.”

Mr Carey compared the arrival of FTX, which is Albany, to that of Sir Sol Kerzner, the late founder of Atlantis, who acquired a tired property and turned it into a world-renowned resort that redefined what The Bahamas had to offer the hospitality industry.

“FTX is the Sol Kerzner of the fintech (financial technology) world, and its presence in The Bahamas should signal the formation of a financial union, providing a foundation of strength for persons and businesses across all fintech platforms to present a Bahamas unified force,” he added.

“That force will include marketing, training, certification, advocacy and a centralised resource as well as powerhouse. It will be where intellects in this new space will contribute ideas of all kinds and sew the moral fabric of the future.”

Fintech, of which cryptocurrency is a part, is already driving traditional banks to look at new ways to

MARIO CAREY generate revenue and cover growing expenses. Many are turning to increases in fees that further fuel a desire by the public to find alternative financial solutions.

Companies such as FTX, which are designed to meet these demands, are attracting large investors, including pension funds and the likes of BlackRock. The sector has attracted many institutional investors and those wanting to grow enterprises.

Mr Carey described FTX’s arrival as “the holy grail of financial services that we have been waiting for”. He added: “The presence of FTX in The Bahamas says to the world this country is ready for the new world of finance.

“Kudos to The Central Bank, the Attorney General’s Office past and present, for the attorneys who worked on this, and the developer and others whose combined efforts made The Bahamas the land of choice for the fintech of the future. FTX will wake up an anemic market in the midst of high liquidity and record demand for investment opportunities.”

Philip Davis QC, the Prime Minister, officially opened FTX’s Albany headquarters in October 2021. When FTX founder and chief executive, Sam Bankman-Fried, announced the company he formed in 2019 was leaving Hong Kong and moving to The Bahamas, where it would establish its first official global headquarters, the 29-year-old billionaire credited this nation’s “progressive, comprehensive” legislation and framework regulating cryptocurrency.

He also paid tribute to the ease of travel and availability of skilled professionals, which would make it easier to make the move. Most important, Mr BankmanFried said, was the Digital Assets and Registered Exchanges Act, noting that The Bahamas had readied itself for the “shift in the regulatory landscape” and was one of few countries to draft and pass comprehensive legislation.

According to a report that appeared in financial newsletter, The Daily Upside, on December 28, a study by financial services firm, Plaid, showed more than four out of every five people were now using some form of Fintech.

“The pandemic inspired a wave of fintech adoption. The percentage of US consumers using fintech products rocketed to 88 percent in 2021 from 58 percent in 2020.....

Between payment platforms like Klarna, and digital neobanks like Ally Financial, the pressure to rapidly adopt new technology to keep up forced bank executives to open their checkbooks,” said the Squad at the Daily Upside.

For Mr Carey, who launched Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate MCR Bahamas during the 2008 recession, and has since created a new company, Mario Carey Ventures, FTX represents a “road map to the future that will have deep connections directly or indirectly to all of us in The Bahamas.

“It is already impacting real estate, drawing investors who are purchasing extremely high-end properties with crypto. It is good to be ahead of the curve in a climate like this and entering such exciting times,” Mr Carey added.

January 21st, 2022

their presence could be felt at the cruise port.

“Once criminals realise it is a free-for-all and it is open season on the tourists, it’s over. It makes you not want to go out there any more. I’m surprised the tourists come off of the cruise ships now.”

PAGE 4, Tuesday, January 11, 2022

BAHAMAS SEES $715M GAIN IF ‘INFRASTRUCTURE GAP’ CLOSED FROM PAGE ONE mobile and fixed broadband respectively.

“Although among Caribbean countries The Bahamas fares well in terms of digital infrastructure, an estimated investment of $30.7m is needed to close the gap with the OECD averages, equivalent to 0.27 percent of GDP,” the IDB report said.

“Such investment would increase the fiscal deficit for fiscal year 2021-2022 from

7.8 to 8.1 percent [of GDP], but closing the digital infrastructure gap would bring benefits estimated at 5.6 percent of GDP and productivity gains of 4.6 percent over six years.

“Although these gains are below Latin American and Caribbean averages (9.5 percent and 7.7 percent, respectively) they still well offset the costs, as the digital multiplier is above 20. Moreover, such an investment would also create more than

THE TRIBUNE 4,000 jobs,” the IDB report continued.

“The resources needed in urban areas represent 61 percent of the total, with the other 39 percent would be needed in rural areas.

The gap for fixed broadband amounts to $17.1m, while for mobile broadband it is slightly smaller at $13.6m.”

It is unclear whether such investment is to come from the Government, private sector or both, and the IDB report made no mention of upgrading this nation’s communications network to 5G (fifth generation) technology - a move that the Prime Minister and his administration are taking a keen interest in, but which both Aliv and

BTC have said requires significant expenditure.

The “estimated gap” between The Bahamas and OECD economies on fixed broadband Internet was estimated at just 11.2 percent, with only Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago and Uruguay having less ground to bridge out all nations in the Western Hemisphere. However, the distance was greater on mobile broadband, with this country facing a 60.2 percent gap.

Still, the IDB report said The Bahamas would enjoy the third greatest economic returns in the Latin American and Caribbean region - behind only Trinidad & Tobago and Barbados - if it eliminated its digital infrastructure gap with major world economies.

With benefits estimated at 23.3 times’ the initial $30.7m investment, this would amount to a $715m boost in a relatively short six-year period, averaging just over $119m per year. Describing the results and their implications as “striking”, the IDB said: “For three of the six economies - The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados - the potential benefit in terms of the cumulative positive impact on growth could be between 23 and 58 times’ the associated costs.

“In each of these three cases, the estimated cost of closing these digital infrastructure gaps is relatively small - under one percentage point of GDP in each case.”

The IDB acknowledged, too, that The Bahamas was starting from a strong position when it came to developing a technology-based economy.

“In The Bahamas, remarkably, mobile broadband (4G) coverage reaches 99 percent of the population, which is even above the average for OECD countries (98 percent),” it said. “However, regarding access, there are 61 mobile and 23 fixed broadband lines per 100 population in The Bahamas, above the average for the Caribbean but below OECD levels.

“In The Bahamas, 71 percent of households have at least one personal computer, and 66 percent have Internet access, while in the Caribbean these shares are 51 percent and 55 percent,

respectively, and in the OECD they are higher, at 83 percent and 78 percent, respectively.”

But, while this nation may have solid foundations upon which to build, the IDB added: “One factor that could hinder further adoption is that costs are high.

The monthly fee for a fixed broadband connection in The Bahamas is 5 percent above the Caribbean average and 113 percent above the OECD average, while for a mobile broadband connection the fees are 54 percent and 24 percent higher, respectively.

“Finally, it is worth noting that improvements in connection speed could be beneficial. Although average broadband speeds in The Bahamas are only slightly below the Caribbean average, they are close to half the mobile broadband speed in the OECD and close to a third of that in the OECD for fixed broadband.

“Overall, in The Bahamas 80 percent of the population uses the Internet, in line with the OECD average of 83 percent and above the Caribbean average of 60 percent.

However, no data on intensity of use are available.”

The IDB also noted that The Bahamas had slipped five places on its 2020 Global Broadband Development Index compared to the 2018 rankings, dropping to 43rd out of 65 countries that were measured. This, though, still placed it second among Caribbean nations and seventh among those from Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Bahamas dropped to 12th place on “public policies and strategic vision” relating to mobile and fixed-line Internet; fell to 63rd or near-bottom on “strategic regulation”; and slipped to 37th on “applications and training”. It did, though, improve to 44th on infrastructure.

“Among Latin American and Caribbean countries, The Bahamas ranked 24th in strategic regulation, eighth in infrastructure, and third in training and capabilities,” the IDB added, putting a better gloss on the rankings as it highlighted the digital economy’s ever-increasing importance in a post-pandemic world.

“Digital infrastructure is a key booster of development, as reliable broadband access has a positive impact on many sectors. It has the potential to improve efficiency and productivity at multiple levels, which not only increases economic growth, but also improves living standards and the quality of life,” the report added.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply impacted the way individuals and companies work, and it is now clearer than ever that putting in place solid digital infrastructure is key to remain competitive and connected to the world. Initial measures to contain the spread of the virus included mobility restrictions and limitations on face-to-face interactions.

“Businesses that had already incorporated digital tools in their day-to-day operations faced less disruption than those that had not.

Companies had to adapt quickly in order to survive, and individuals without Internet access saw how many tasks, such as submitting payments or ordering items from the supermarket, became much more difficult.”

Pointing to the virtual learning environment that all students were thrust into, the IDB added: “Households with no Internet access, or without adequate and sufficient devices, were particularly affected.

Unequal access to digital infrastructure exacerbates inequality, with poorer individuals facing exclusion and having fewer opportunities to advance......

“Given that the potential benefits outweigh costs, closing the gap and maintaining an adequate digital infrastructure, as well as providing broad access, should be a priority for The Bahamas.”

The IDB gave the Government credit for the launch of its My Gateway Internet portal, which aims to give Bahamians online access to 200 public services within five years. Some 6,000 Bahamians are already registered. And the Sand Dollar, the Central Bank-backed digital currency, was also singled out for mention.

Public Notice PUBLIC HOSPITALS AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT VACANCY DEPUTY DIRECTOR COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATE OFFICE The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Deputy Director Communications, Corporate Office.

Please be advised that all persons or entities holding valid contracts with

Bahamas Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority are asked to present themselves at the National Sports Authority on Wednesday and Thursday, January 12th & 13th, 2022 respectively between the hours of 9am and 5pm, to provide documents necessary to ensure payment of any arrears owed on the contracts.

The following documents are required: • Copy of contract • Government issued ID or if a corporate entity evidence that you can act on behalf of the corporate entity (Power of Attorney) along with the

government issued ID. • Tax Compliance Certificate • NIB Company Registration Certificate • A copy of a Valid Business License • VAT Certificate, if the annual valule of the contracts with the authority was in excess of $80,000.00 • Bank accout information as no termination payment would be made to third party accounts on behalf of terminated contractors.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Deputy Director Communications is responsible for supervision and management of all productions and media relations and public relations projects; and oversees all graphic designs and layout for print/ web publications and productions on all social media and website publications.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES FOR THIS ROLE INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: • Supervises and ensures quality control script, production, edition, distribution of PHA’s audio/ visual production; • Produces public, employee and patient educational and informational material for radio, television, online and print media; • Assists in the preparation of departmental annual budget, speeches, and press release writing; • Assists in management of media contracts; • Coordinates public relations and international media campaigns, conferences, and projects; • Oversees design and dissemination of internal and external mass communication information forms, materials, and documents.

EDUCATIONAL/EXPERIENCE: • Minimum of Graduate Degree in Mass Communications/ Communications/ Journalism/ Graphic Arts/ Management; • Minimum Seven (7) years’ experience in relevant area (Broadcasting/ publications/Public relations); • Minimum Five (5) years’ supervisory experience • Experience in structuring programming for broadcast media.

COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS: • Strong technical, management and leadership skills; • Excellent interpersonal skills; • Excellent oral & written communications skills; • Good editorial judgment, graphic design for print/ media/ electronic media; • Conversant with broadcast and media industry standards for the Bahamas, Caribbean Region, North America, and the United Kingdom.

Letter of application and curriculum vitae should be forwarded to the Director of Human Resources, Corporate Office, Public Hospitals Authority, 3rd Terrace West, Centreville; or email to

jobs@phabahamas.org

no later than 21st January 2022.

THE TRIBUNE

Big data is big business

By CHRIS ILLING

A

lot of investors call data the new oil or gold. But they are wrong, since data nowadays is much more valuable to all companies as it is almost irreplaceable. Although data is still not available in unlimited quantities today, unlike oil and gold it can be used as often as you wish because, in contrast to physical raw materials, data does not wear out. While a barrel of crude oil or an ounce of precious metal can only be sold and processed once, you can sell data as often as you like and process it in as many applications as you want - all at the same time. As with oil, there are also producers, refiners and users for data. A pre-requisite for this is a market for data - a network of players who know how to handle data, and who have agreed on a standard for exchanging and trading data. This is extremely important because, when dealing with data, milliseconds count.

Much data is sometimes only up-to-date for a few days, often only seconds or even fractions of a second.

They are exchanged and processed by services in real time.

The massive volumes of information generated and used for decision-making in business today fuel the booming business of data analytics and ‘big data’ companies. The International Data Corporation (IDC) estimates that the “global datasphere” in 2021, meaning the total amount of data created

and consumed during the year, reached 59 zettabytes and will continue to grow at a 26 percent CAGR (compound annual growth rate) through 2024.

Big data describes huge volumes of data that flood a business daily, coming from an ever-growing variety of sources. It typically describes data sets with sizes beyond the ability of traditional data processing software tools to capture, process and curate in a timely fashion. Big data comes from myriad sources. Some examples are transaction processing systems, customer databases, documents, e-mails, medical records, Internet clickstream logs, mobile apps and social networks.

The list of ‘Big Data’ companies continues to grow. Leaders in the field include MongoDB (MDB. US), Elastic (ESTC.US), Workiva (WK.US) and Splunk (SPLK.US). Big data companies can specialise in various areas, including data mining and cleaning; data analysis; machine data; visualisation; and storage.

These data markets are emerging and establishing a new industry, even a new economy - the data economy. You can now sit back and watch, following the motto: “The market will take care of it.” The market will “regulate”

that, too, but it will, like e-commerce or social media platforms, create an imbalance in which a few providers would have the monopoly on access to a lot of data. Therefore, it is important to take counter-measures with open initiatives before quasistandards are established by the market.

Critics of this new economy claim it is crucial that no oversized data centres are being created, but that everyone remains in possession of their data and only standardised interfaces for automated retrieval are created. Only then does a free market arise, in which you can search for specific data and compare the offers of different providers before doing business.

Such open data ecosystems not only secure the economic interests of everyone, but can also guarantee IT security, data protection and sustainability better with transparency than black box systems from individual manufacturers.

If certain data can be made available to as many interested parties as possible, it avoids having to constantly and unnecessarily re-collect or recalculate this data. Incidentally, this also results in great energy and CO2 (carbon dioxide) savings. In addition to pure status and prognosis data on weather, the environment,

Tuesday, January 11, 2022, PAGE 5

DATA DOLLAR traffic, energy, medicine, society, etc., this can also be image data, 3D data as well as standardised simulation models and pre-trained AI (artificial intelligence) models.

We should think and exemplify the openness in all directions, and invite everyone interested to take part. The most important thing, however, is that there are no dependencies on

individual providers, so that the digital sovereignty of the data providers, the companies involved, and entire economies is preserved.

PUBLIC HOSPITALS AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT VACANCY MANAGING DIRECTOR CORPORATE OFFICE The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) invites applications from suitable qualified persons for the post of Managing Director, Corporate Office.

The PHA comprises the three public hospitals of The Bahamas (Princess Margaret Hospital, Rand Memorial Hospital and Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre), ten community clinics in Grand Bahama, which when combined with the Rand Memorial Hospital comprises the Grand Bahama Health Service, along with the National Emergency Medical Services and Supplies Management Agency.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Managing Director will work directly with the Chairman, Board of Directors and the Ministry of Health to achieve the overall national health vision of healthy people, effective Healthcare delivery systems and efficient operations of services within the Bahamas.

The Managing Director will have oversight of strategic planning for the organization in keeping with its long-term goals, review of the organization’s performance and the implementation of action plans to ensure that required measures are taken when necessary to achieve desired results.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES FOR THIS ROLE INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: • Overseeing the national health services mission, goals, and objectives, at corporate and institutional levels; • Identifying priorities, goals and program targets; and mandates a participative approach for top-down and bottom-up contributions from managers and line staff at all levels; • Providing for the acquisition and maintenance of physical, financial and human capital for service diversity, expansion and sustainability in meeting growing healthcare demands, subject to Governmentapproved annual budgets; • Managing the financial accounting including annual budget forecasts; and compliance with cost control measures; • Managing ongoing business trends and forecasting external events that may impact future performance; and planning for such contingencies; • Facilitating the resolution of critical business issues including quality and safety concerns; • Facilitating continuous improvement in business performance, innovation, flexibility, and service diversity, expansion and sustainability; • Ensuring regular and valid measuring of success in realizing PHA’s vision, mission goals and objectives; • Fostering development of an organizational culture that supports service and ethical values and principles adopted by PHA in achieving the highest service quality and customer satisfaction; • Accomplishing public sector health-services-system targets as identified in the National Health Service Strategic Plan; • Providing support and recommendations to the Board of Directors and Board Committees for formulation of policies directing and regulating PHA’s healthcare operations.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: • Minimum of a Masters’ Degree in Business Administration, Health Services Management or equivalent; • Minimum of fifteen (15) years’ management experience at a senior level.

COMPETENCIES: • Excellent Leadership and interpersonal skills; • Proven track record of effective management, communication and analytical skills; • Strong business acumen; • Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance standards; • Excellent negotiation capabilities.

The Managing Director will report to the Chairman and the Board of Directors.

Letter of application and curriculum vitae should be forwarded to the Director of Human Resources, Corporate Office, Public Hospitals Authority, 3rd Terrace West, Centreville; or email to

jobs@phabahamas.org

no later than 21st January 2022.

PAGE 6, Tuesday, January 11, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

COVID SHUTDOWN FOR AUTO DEALER’S ‘MAJOR GENERATOR’ FROM PAGE ONE - an increase of around 27 percent upon last year’s estimated 1,500 total.

He was backed by Ben Albury, Bahamas Bus and Truck’s general manager, and the Bahamas Motor Dealers Association’s (BMDA) president, who told this newspaper that Meanwhile, Fred Albury said that with vehicle inventories down to the bare minimum, his Auto Mall business - which includes the Quality Auto (Hyundai and Suzuki), Executive Motors (Toyota) and BMW dealerships - has become increasingly reliant on its service and parts functions to drive consistent cash flow. These are the very same segments hit hardest by Omicron-enforced absences.

“The impact hit us yesterday and the day before,” the Auto Mall chief revealed on Friday.

“Our service department is closed at the moment because 50 percent of the people tested positive, and the parts department is down to 40 percent of staff.

We’ve managed to make it through today, and will see what happens on Tuesday

or Wednesday when we send people out to test.

“It’s a part of doing business these days. It’s the front office staff that’s part of it. There were eight there, and three parts people. All in all, we’ve had 20-25 people that have tested positive, and in total we’re about 75-77 persons.

It’s about one-third of the staff.

“Service and parts are the two major generators out there at the moment because we’re practically sold out of vehicles with the supply chain issues that have hit us. If you pass my property, if you pass by the front of the Hyundai showroom, we have two vehicles, Toyota six-eight, and BMW is basically sold out; we may have one or two in the showroom.”

Emphasising that Auto Mall was far from alone in its present struggles, Fred Albury added: “It’s impacting everyone I’ve spoken to..... I think just about every sizeable company in this country has been hit with this situation, especially after the holidays and uptick in visitors coming in.

“I’m sort of surprised they’ve not put a curfew back in place to slow down the movement of people,

and closed down Fish Fry and areas like that where are mass gatherings. They need to crack down on social gatherings.”

Reimposing a curfew would reverse the first act the Davis administration took upon assuming office following the September 16 general election, so it will be unlikely to take that approach. It has also repeatedly said there will be no lockdowns, border closures or other extreme measures as it seeks to balance lives and livelihoods, fearing such restrictions will wipe out businesses and jobs.

Giving further insight into the supply chain woes impacting the auto industry, Fred Albury said any product Auto Mall was importing now had already been pre-sold to local buyers. “If we order 40 cars per month on the Toyota side, I usually get 15-20,” he explained.

“We were just able to complete a fleet deal for Avis [rental cars] that was ordered six months ago.

Now I have another rental car company that needs ten vehicles, but they have to wait, and the Government wanting vehicles. We’re

PUBLIC HOSPITALS AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT VACANCY HEALTH FACILITY ENGINEERING MANAGER PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL (PMH) The Public Hospitals Authority invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Health Facility Engineering Manager, Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH).

POSITION SUMMARY: The responsibilities of the Health Facility Engineering Manager are to serve in an expert role in all aspects of the organization’s physical plant infrastructure needs, directing the Facilities Department’s activities and resources to ensure alignment with the mission, values, and objectives of the department, the hospital, and the PHA. The Health Facility Engineering Manager is responsible for coordinating and managing the Building & Maintenance Departments and overseeing the Engineering, Biomedical & Mechanical Units, inclusive of air conditioning (HVAC), structural and civil engineering requirements; maintenance of the facility’s building management system (BMS); lighting; roofing; fire protection; and other specific structural needs.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES FOR THIS ROLE INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: • Designing and implementing preventative plans and procedures focusing on minimizing the occurrence of adverse effects that could affect the operation of the facility; • Making recommendations to senior management with an eye to prioritizing and improving the overall working function of every aspect of the physical plant; • Mentoring and training staff to ensure quality, compliance and succession planning; • Ensuring that all contractors employed by the department on maintenance, renovations or new building works, are effectively managed and controlled to execute the services needed; • Reviewing bids and making recommendations for awarding of contracts for maintenance work, contracts and renovations; • Preparing and administering the Facilities Management and Operations budget; also monitoring expenditures of the Departments under direct span of control; • Preparing detailed policy and procedural document to ensure appropriate methods and levels of service are adhered to; • Monitoring the financial and operational results and providing periodic reports to the Hospital Administrator on performances, which includes benchmarking achievement using appropriate performance indicators; • Examining, evaluating, and implementing appropriate energy management measures to provide returns on any investment.

EDUCATIONAL/EXPERIENCE: • Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management or equivalent, OR related field; • Minimum of seven (7) years relevant experience in a Healthcare facility, hotel or large corporation; five (5) of which must be at management level; • Member British Institute of Facilities Management OR a related professional body.

COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS: • Excellent leadership and organizational skills; • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written); • Excellent technical and analytical skills; • Current professional registration; • Proficient in the use of Microsoft software and accounting skills.

The Health Facility Engineering Manager reports to the Hospital Administrator.

Letter of application and curriculum vitae should be forwarded to the Director of Human Resources, Corporate Office, Public Hospitals Authority, 3rd Terrace West, Centreville; or email to

jobs@phabahamas.org

no later than 21st January 2022.

having difficulty securing product for them.”

Predicting that 2022’s new auto sales will be flat compared to 2021 levels, Fred Albury added: “If we get product we will see a sizeable uptick in the second half, and if the chip shortage resolves itself. I estimate that, in total, the industry will do 1,500 units, which is similar to last year.

If we can get product, the industry could do 1,8001,900 units.”

However, he added that Auto Mall was “way down, way down” on normal inventory levels, with one brand - Executive Motors - that typically has 150 vehicles in stock now down to just ten. “The demand is there but the supply is not,” Fred Albury said. “My bank is not too happy as they have no overdraft any more, so they’re not making interest from me, but it impacts our cash flow.”

His namesake Ben, the Bahamas Bus and Truck general manager, told

Tribune Business that vehicle inventories were probably down 80 percent compared to pre-COVID norms due to supply chain bottlenecks.

“It’s been very, very difficult,” he said. “The demand is great, which is not something we would have expected a year or two ago. Demand has far surpassed my expectations.

The biggest problem is getting supply. My suppliers are definitely not giving me the best case scenario. They are telling me to be prepared for this to extent for another 12 months.

“We have a lot of clients with particular needs and wants, and they may have to settle for something that will not be the ideal scenario, especially on passenger vehicles and high-end vehicles. It’s almost impossible. I have had some orders in for 11 months and do not have a production date.”

Acknowledging that all Bahamian auto dealers

and, indeed, most sectors of the economy “are in this together”, Ben Albury said of his industry: “We’re probably down on sales 40 percent compared to pre-COVID numbers. I have people that want very expensive and nice vehicles but, no matter what, I cannot get it. That’s the price range we’d love to be in - $50,000 to $100,000.

“We’re struggling acrossthe-board, but those are the ones that are pretty much impossible. The others face a delay no matter how many orders you put in. We have to roll with it.”

TO ADVERTISE TODAY IN THE TRIBUNE CALL @ 502-2394

THE TRIBUNE

COVID QUARANTINE CHANGE: ‘RIGHT DIRECTION ON ALL FRONTS’ FROM PAGE ONE ladder, and we are certainly grateful for the movement in that direction. We must all work together to ensure the winter tourism season, notwithstanding any further external hits, can be very much a success. Things are going in the right direction now on all fronts.

“All of these steps are steps that are welcome, and we have thanked the Government for open communication and channels of collaboration to allow these issues to be discussed - and decisions made - in the best interests of health and safety as well as the economic success of the tourism industry.”

The tourism industry, and wider Bahamian private sector, had been advocating a shift away from the rigid 10-day isolation period for persons infected with COVID-19 as well as the 14-day quarantine for those

who had been exposed to virus carriers.

They had been calling for The Bahamas to fall in line with US and UK practices, with both those countries having adopted five-day and seven-day quarantine periods, respectively. The subsequent changes are being viewed as a boost for tourism, as visitors no longer have to fear a lengthy quarantine if they test positive in The Bahamas, while also enabling locals to return to work more quickly once they test negative and receive the all-clear.

However, the acclaim was not universal. Jason Watson, AID’s president, told Tribune Business that the ten-day quarantine for unvaccinated ‘close contacts’ of COVIDinfected persons was “baffling” given the availability, and access to, testing on a daily basis.

While praising the Government for responding to

Tuesday, January 11, 2022, PAGE 7 the private sector’s needs, he said in response to this newspaper’s inquiries: “Grateful the current administration is taking a more pragmatic approach, and the new guidelines for the isolation of positive cases are a tremendous improvement which will allow businesses and society to function.

“However, the quarantine period for unvaccinated close contacts is baffling and makes it very difficult for businesses to make adjustments. Individuals in Nassau can be tested seven days a week, so why lose ten days of productivity over the possibility of an infection?

“With this current policy, unvaccinated close contacts will have a much greater negative effect on society than positive cases. Hopefully, the Government will make appropriate changes to that policy urgently.”

Ben Albury, Bahamas Bus and Truck’s general manager, hailed the isolation/ quarantine period changes as “fantastic” and “excellent”.

He added: “I think that will definitely improve things as far as being able to fast track

staff getting back to work, in particular, and getting things moving. I’m glad the ministry made the adjustments.

“I’ve had COVID personally, and it was good to be able to get back in the saddle quickly. After a short period of time, I felt well..... I’m definitely happy to hear there is no talk of suppressing the economy by lockdowns, curfews or archaic constraints.

Everybody has learnt the protocols, and they can be adjusted accordingly as we move ahead.”

The Ministry of Health and Wellness reforms are seeking to provide greater flexibility while also still protecting public health. They segment cases, and COVID contacts, into those who are vaccinated and unvaccinated,

and those who are asymptomatic and show mild signs from others who suffer more severe illness.

Persons who test positive for COVID, “and are asymptomatic or have mild to moderate illness and are not immunocompromised”, must now isolate for seven days. They can test again on day five, six or seven of their isolation and, if these are negative, can then be released.

However, they must then wear an N95/KN95 mask for a further three days.

Alternatively, persons in this category - who are likely to comprise the majority of COVID infections - can isolate for ten days. If the fifth-seventh day test is positive, but symptoms improve,

they can be released after 24 hours without a fever or needing medicine.

But those who are “severely symptomatic or immunocompromised” are required to isolate for 20 days. They can be released earlier if a doctor approves, but no earlier than ten days in.

As for “close contacts”, those who are “fully vaccinated and are not immunocompromised” do not have to quarantine. They must limit their movements to “essential activities” until a fifth day test comes back as negative. Those who are “unvaccinated and are not immunocompromised” must quarantine for ten days, and can be released thereafter if they test negative.

PUBLIC HOSPITALS AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT VACANCY FINANCIAL CONTROLLER PRINCESS MARGARET HOSPITAL (PMH) The Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Financial Controller (FC), Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH).

POSITION SUMMARY: The Financial Controller (FC) manages the finances of PMH and is responsible for its financial reporting. In addition, the FC, assesses financial risks and opportunities; manages finance team, and assists in setting and monitoring financial goals, objectives and budgets.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE FINANCIAL CONTROLLER INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: • Assisting with decisions regarding the policies and strategies of PMH; • Overseeing PMH’s fiscal activity, including budgeting, reporting and auditing; • Supervising financial reporting and budgeting teams; • Identifying and addressing financial risks and opportunities for PMH; • Reviewing, updating and, if necessary, establishing accounting policies to ensure conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS); • Reviewing, updating and, if necessary, establishing a system of internal control over financial reporting, as well as maintaining appropriate procedures manuals; • Reviewing and approving financial reports, including but not limited to, budget reports, statements of financial position, financial performance and cash flows, and other management reporting prepared for senior management, the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors of PHA; • Assisting with the recruitment of members of the financial reporting and budgeting teams; • Preparing analyses and written reports in relation to the achievement of goals, objectives and budgets, as well are reporting on areas for improving the design and operating effectiveness of the system of internal controls over financial reporting; • Serving as the primary liaison with designated senior management of PMH, the Director of Finance of PHA, those charged with governance of PHA and other identified stakeholders in relation to financial matters of PMH; EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: • Professional qualification from a recognized accounting body, namely, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), designation CPA, or Association of Chartered Certified Accounts (ACCA), designation CA or Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA), designation CA or Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (CGA); • License from the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants (BACA) or qualifications that meet the requirements for eligibility to be licensed by BICA; • A minimum of eight (8) years of experience in auditing, financial reporting or internal controls, with a minimum of five (5) of those years in a senior capacity; • Experience with preparing financial information in accordance with IFRS or equivalent accounting standards; • Experience with reporting to those charged with governance, including providing analyses and recommendations for enhancement of the organization.

COMPETENCIES: • In-depth understanding of the organization and management of Public and Private organizations with a focus on Financial Service Management; • Proven ability to work with team members and stakeholders from different backgrounds.

• Proficiency with accounting programmes, in particular, INFOR Financial Suite, Masterpiece, Microsoft and QuickBooks.

• Proven track record of effective management, communication and analytical skills, along with ability to work in and lead teams.

The Financial Controller will report to the Director of Finance, Public Hospitals Authority.

Letter of application and curriculum vitae should be forwarded to the Director of Human Resources, Corporate Office, Public Hospitals Authority, 3rd Terrace West, Centreville; or email to

jobs@phabahamas.org

no later than 21st January 2022.

Are you highly adaptable? Competitive? Energetic? Flexible?

If you have what it takes, we want you!

Fidelity is looking for a passionate, sales-driven, networking professional to fill the role of:

Personal Banking Representative (Loan Officer) JOB SUMMARY: The ideal Candidate will be a proven sales leader who is target-driven and possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills. This role is primarily responsible for the sale of Fidelity’s loan and credit card products, while ensuring successful relationship management of clients. In addition to a fixed salary, this position also earns substantial performance-based incentives.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • The solicitation and sale of loans, credit cards and other credit products.

• Solicit and interact with prospective clients regarding loan applications and other credit matters – utilizing effective relationship management skills.

• Prepare credit applications (loans, overdrafts, credit cards) and perform credit facility renewals.

• Perform collection of overdue loan and credit card payments.

• Serve as a backup and relief for other Lending roles or functions as required.

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS: • High school Diploma • Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the Financial Services industry or in a role which required solicitation and sales based on targets • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills (verbal and written) • Must be energetic, competitive and goal-oriented • Exceptional character, integrity and work ethics • Proficient at Microsoft Office Suite programs • Ability to work in a self-motivated environment, on a team and with little supervision • Ability to manage the administration of multiple tasks at one time

PLEASE SUBMIT BEFORE January 14th 2022

HUMAN RESOURCES Re: Loan Officer

ABSOLUTELY NO PHONE CALLS

careers@fidelitybahamas.com

A competitive compensation package (including base salary and commissions) will be commensurate with relevant experience and qualification.

PAGE 8, Tuesday, January 11, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

GN-2661

PUBLIC NOTICE

FOOD PRICES: ‘WHAT GOES UP MAY NOT COME DOWN’ FROM PAGE ONE

we have to put through to increase prices.

“I don’t want to make an issue of this, but I said to the authorities that by the end of this year we might have as high as 20 percent price increases on most items.

Freight costs have got caught in everything. Most of the blic is The hereby an that application forforSite Approval (SPA/12/2021) onofbehalf of DCL Island items are going to experipublicnotified is hereby that notified an application SitePlan Plan Approval (SPA/12/2021) on behalf DCL Island encefor that inflation. We have pment Development C/O BRON presently being byTheThe Department of Physical Planning C/O Ltd. BRONis Ltd. is presently beingreviewed reviewed by Department of Physical Planning for the US saying they had a 7 presentation to the Town Planning Committee. percent increase so far. It’s ation to the Town Planning Committee. very easy to have another 15 The applicant is proposing the development of a Cruise Port on the property known as Lighthouse Point in South percent increase.” licantEleuthera, is proposing theThe development Cruise PortPoint on the propertyextend known in South The Super Value chief Bahamas. site boundariesofofathe Lighthouse development fromas theLighthouse most southernPoint tip alsotipwarned that price of the island north, both the eastern and western shorelines. project is asouthern ra, Bahamas.

The siteapproximately boundaries8,000ft, of theincluding Lighthouse Point development extend The from the site most increase concerns could be total of approximately 919 acres comprising 758 acres of lands purchased the applicant, and Crownshorelines.

Lands that include Big exacerbated by the recent land north, 8,000ft, including both thebyeastern and western The project site is a Pond, White Pond, and multiple land parcels. Approximately 193 acres of the privately owned lands, including surge in Omicron cases in 919 acres comprising 758 acres lands purchased bystructures, the applicant, Lands Public that include theBig US and other major the southern tip encompassing theof actual lighthouse building will formand the Crown Disney Donated food-producing markets that White Pond, andto multiple land parcels.

193 privately owned lands, including Lands. Up 152 acres will be utilized forApproximately Project development, andacres at leastof 606the acres will remain undisturbed. serve The Bahamas, which is Donated and remaining the undisturbed total 606 acres, or 80 percent of the purchased lands utilized for Project hern tip encompassing actuallands lighthouse building structures, will form the Disney Donated Public estimated to have an annual food import bill of around development based on the current site plan.

Up to 152 acres will be utilized for Project development, and at least 606 acres will remain undisturbed. $1bn and brings in most of what it concerns.

The proposed Cruise Port project will include the following program: d and remaining undisturbed lands total 606 acres, or 80 percent of the purchased lands utilized for Project While expressing confiment based on the current site plan. dence that the supermarket • 2,500ft long access pier • Beach expansion, enhancements and chain’s health protocols have improvements served it well to-date, and posed Cruise Port project will include the following program: that it is well-placed to cope • Ship berth, service ramp and marina • Themed buildings and elements with any Omicron-related • Dining and beverage facilities • Recreational areas and structures worker absences, Mr Rob• Merchandise and retail facilities Maintenance and utilityenhancements plants and erts said staff shortages at 2,500ft long access pier • • Beach expansion, and facilities overseas wholesalers/disimprovements tributors; processing and • Spa facilities • Employee Dining, housing and manufacturing plants; farms; Ship berth, service ramp and marina • Themed recreationalbuildings facilities and elements and transportation compa• Aquatics andfacilities recreational facilities Snorkeling areasareas and water activities Dining and beverage • • Recreational and structures nies could all impact supply area to The Bahamas.

Merchandise and retail facilities • Maintenance and utility plants and “I spoke to someone in • Back-of-House: (Electrical and Sanitation Buildings, Power Generator, Solar Power the know today. Producfacilities Generation Arrays, Diesel and Gasoline Tanks, Reverse Osmosis Units, and Wastewater tion and supply in the food Treatment Plant) Spa facilities • Employee Dining, housing and industry is going to be hit hard by this recent outrecreational facilities A virtual public meeting will be held February 1, 2022 at 6:30pm for all interested parties to discuss and address break. Whole factories are Aquatics andissues recreational facilities • Snorkeling areas and water activities completely shutdown by the planning related to the proposed Cruise Port development. rapid spread,” he added. area “What concerns me is one of Access to the meeting will be available by way of Webex using the following link: Back-of-House: (Electrical and Sanitation Buildings, Power Generator, Solar Power our suppliers in Florida said https://bahamasgovernment.webex.com/bahamasgovernment/j.php?MTID=m3e74d664b68cdebbf15b382f3264 half their warehouse staff Generation Arrays, Diesel and Gasoline Tanks, Reverse Osmosis Units, and Wastewater eca4 are out.

Treatment Plant) “We’re concerned that we may have three-four months Preliminary plans for the proposed development are available for viewing at The Department of Physical of problems. We may have Planning, located in be the held Aventura Plaza on John F. Kennedy Drive, during working hours ofparties 9 a.m. –to 5 p.m.

Plans and address problems in the supply l public meeting will February 1, 2022 at 6:30pm for all interested discuss are also available at the office of the Island Administrator in South Eleuthera. chain with factories having g issues related to the proposed Cruise Port development. to close or go half-speed, especially on perishables.

Interested persons and organizations are invited to review the information on file and provide written comments We are stocked up for an questionswill prior be to the meeting. Comments should be directed the Director of Physical to the ormeeting available by way of Webex usingtothe following link: Planning. Submissions extra three months of hard can be made via P.O Box N-1611, Nassau Bahamas or email to the Department of Physical Planning at groceries, but cannot do that ahamasgovernment.webex.com/bahamasgovernment/j.php?MTID=m3e74d664b68cdebbf15b382f3264 DEPTPHYSICALPLANNING@BAHAMAS.GOV.BS. with perishables, cereals, rice.... They have to be on a monthly basis.”

Mr Roberts added that Super Value will be able to nary plans for the proposed development areSigned available for viewing at The Department of Physical “at least for a while handle” Charles B. Zonicle g, located in the Aventura Plaza on John F. Kennedy Drive, during working hours of 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. any Plans supply chain disrupDirector of Physical Planning tion on products that have a available at the office of the Island Administrator in South Eleuthera. long-lasting shelf life, having “over-stocked with at least three months’ supply” that ed persons@departmentofphysicalplanning and organizations are invited to review the information on file and provide written comments

PUBLIC NOTICE

MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL PLANNING DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL PLANNING

was acquired before price hikes started to emerge.

“I warned the buyers that every time they place an order, they had better know where to put it,” the Super Value chief said. “We were aiming to build up six months’ of hard goods, but when we got up to three we realised we couldn’t have six months in the warehouse.

We had to slow down....

“We’ve followed the learning curve for the past two years. The first year [of the pandemic] we got stuck.

We avoided those problems last year.” The Super Value principal added that the transition to 10 percent VAT had gone relatively smoothly thus far, especially from an information technology (IT) perspective, with the chain aiming to beat the 90-day deadline to change all product prices.

“The quicker we have the prices changed the better off we’re going to be, and the better off consumers are going to be,” Mr Roberts told Tribune Business. “We have an earlier target date than 90 days. We don’t want to be dealing with that for 90 days.

“We’d like to have that behind us by the end of this month. We hope to get ahead. We have three months to do it, but have a goal of doing it in one month. If we fall behind schedule it will not matter too much. I think we can do it. As we put up inventory, we will put on the new price.

“It’s really the leftover inventory that we have to go and reprice, and we will do it as swiftly as we put up new stock. We will deal with it there and then, and not have to go back to that. We stock weekly, so I don’t see why we can’t be ahead of the game in four weeks.”

Mr Roberts said this was the third VAT adjustment, including its introduction, that the private sector had gone through and the supermarket chain had learned lessons each time.

He added that stock on shelves at year-end would now carry two prices, that for 12 percent as well as 10 percent VAT, as Price Control did not permit the removal of the old labels.

The check-out price, though, will reflect the new 10 percent rate and elimination of zero ratings/exemptions.

ions prior to the meeting. Comments should be directed to the Director of Physical Planning. Submissions made via P.O Box N-1611, Nassau Bahamas or email to the Department of Physical Planning at HYSICALPLANNING@BAHAMAS.GOV.BS.

departmentofphysicalplanning

Signed Charles B. Zonicle Director of Physical Planning

CALL 502-2394 TO ADVERTISE TODAY! NOTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that WELTON CHERISME of 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 11th day of January, 2022 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

NOTICE

JAMDA INVEST LTD.

NOTICE is hereby given as follows:

(a) Jamda Invest Ltd. is in Voluntary Dissolution under the provisions of Section 138(4) of the International Business Companies Act 2000. (b) The Dissolution of the said Company commenced when the Articles of Dissolution were submitted to and registered by the Registrar General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. (c)

The Liquidator of the said Company is Beatus Limited, P.O. Box N7776-348, N.P., Bahamas.

Dated 7th day of January, 2022.

Beatus Limited Liquidator

PAGE 10, Tuesday, January 11, 2022

CABINET YET TO DECIDE ON JOBLESS BENEFIT EXTENSION FROM PAGE ONE

we have to do. It’s already January. It’s a decision that has to be made.”

Mr Laroda said the number of persons receiving the $100 weekly benefit had “significantly reduced” due to the Bahamian economy’s continued post-COVID reopening, combined with the ongoing tourism rebound, which had seen the major hotels recall numerous previously-furloughed staff for the peak Christmas/New Year tourism season.

The Prime Minister, in late October, revealed that some 17,000 persons were still receiving the Government-financed COVID unemployment benefit when disclosing that all in that category would receive a $500 lump payment for Christmas 2021.

“That number has been reduced,” Mr Laroda said last night. “If I’m not mistaken, and I don’t want to quote the wrong figure, but it started at around 17,000 and the last time I checked it was around 9,000. But don’t hold me to that.

“There was a drop. Atlantis was at full speed and so was Baha Mar. A lot of those hotel workers were back on the job, so there was a significant reduction in that number.”

As at end-September 2021, the Government had paid-out $204.4m in COVID unemployment benefits. This was introduced to supplement the National Insurance Board (NIB) unemployment benefits, which last 13 weeks, given the pandemic’s protracted nature. NIB itself has paid out over $100m in its own unemployment

NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that JACKY PHILISTIN of Stubbs Alley, Williams Lane, New Providence, The Bahamas is applying to the Minister responsible for Nationality and Citizenship, for Registration Naturalization as a citizen of The Bahamas, and that any person who knows any reason why registration/naturalization should not be granted, should send a written and signed statement of the facts within twenty-eight days from the 11th day of January, 2022 to the Minister responsible for nationality and Citizenship, P.O. Box N-7147, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas.

Legal Notice

NOTICE Rockwell Holdings Limited Pursuant to the Provisions of Section 138 (8) of the International Business Companies Act 2000 notice is hereby given that the above-named Company has been dissolved and struck off the Register pursuant to a Certificate of Dissolution issued by the Registrar General on the 22nd day of December, 2021.

Legal Notice

NOTICE Borr Baug Limited Pursuant to the Provisions of Section 138 (8) of the International Business Companies Act 2000 notice is hereby given that the above-named Company has been dissolved and struck off the Register pursuant to a Certificate of Dissolution issued by the Registrar General on the 23rd day of December, 2021.

Legal Notice

NOTICE

CENTAG Limited Pursuant to the Provisions of Section 138 (8) of the International Business Companies Act 2000 notice is hereby given that the above-named Company has been dissolved and struck off the Register pursuant to a Certificate of Dissolution issued by the Registrar General on the 22nd day of December, 2021.

THE TRIBUNE

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Monday, January 10, 2022

PAGE 12, Tuesday, January 11, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

BODY AND MIND

Celebs shine a light on ADHD and social anxiety

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net IN RECENT years, celebrities have become very vocal and transparent with their fans about sharing their struggles with health issues. Most of them do it to inspire and encourage others living with the similar issues.

Last month, in a series of tweets, R&B artist SZA, 32, opened up about living with ADHD. According to the official definition, ADHD is abbreviated for adult attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder. It is a mental health disorder that includes a combination of persistent problems, such as difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour. Adult ADHD can lead to unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other problems.

SZA tweeted: “Having unmedicated adult ADHD is really f***** hard and absolutely nobody has empathy for it cause we all grown and busy, but GADD*** . I be ready to tap out.”

She then went on to say that living with ADHD is actually terrifying and goes FROM top, R&B artist SZA, actor Chris Evans, R&B way beyond the perception singer Summer Walker and Olympic gymnast Siof procrastination. mone Biles.

“I really can’t recall what I’m ‘sposed to do. ADHD her music. attention, and you Like SZA, singer, pro- can’t sit still and sucks a**. All I gotta say bout dat. I can’t make music ducer and founder of you’re always the Black moving on Adderall and Peas thinking cause I actu- ‘I really can’t recall Eyed music group, about ally have what I’m ‘sposed a will.i.am ADHD and whole the bunch of instead of to do. ADHD sucks shared news of his things. turning me a**. All I gotta say ADHD some But those up it turns me bout dat. I can’t years ago. But traits way down yet in his case, he work well hyper focused make music on Adderall cause said the disor- for me in (meaning der helps with studios and 1,000 takes I actually have his creativity. later of the in meetings In an inter- about creasame line and ADHD and instead view for tive ideas.” no excitement of turning me up the website or connection it turns me way The 46-yearUnderstood. about it).” old entertainer org, which believes his music This wasn’t down yet hyper focuses on also helps with his ADHD. the first SZA focused (meaning educating spoke out 1,000 takes later It’s allowed him, he said, people about to “keep my attention disabout the of the same line ADHD, condition. order in order.” It’s also In a 2017 and no excitement will.i.am taught him a lifelong lesson: shared: interview, “For every obstacle, there’s or connection “One thing some type of solution.” the singer about it).’

I learned discussed In 2016, after her mediabout ADHD cal records were leaked by the way is that it’s hackers, Olympic gymnast her ADHD to keep your Simone Biles, 24, took the affects the way she writes hard

time to educate her supporters about ADHD. She tweeted: “I have ADHD and I have taken medicine for it since

I was a kid. Please know, I again. She said in an believe in clean sport, have Instagram live post: always followed the rules, “I can’t even accept an and will continue to do award in peace. You see so as fair play is critical to how I spoke; I was scared. sport and is Everyone very impor- ‘It was the first time else gave tant to me. I started having mini a long a** Having speech. panic attacks on set. I ADHD, didn’t and taking I really started to because medicine I have think, ‘I’m not sure for it is social anxinothing to if this (acting) is the ety. This is be ashamed right thing for me, how people of, nothcommit suiI’m not sure if I’m ing that I’m cide. When afraid to feeling as healthy as people tell let people I should be feeling’.’ you what’s know.” literally More going on and more celebrities are with them and then people deciding to be transpar- still continue to bully ent with what goes on in them.” their personal lives. R&B “Captain America” star singer Summer Walker, for Chris Evans told the Hollyexample, has shared with wood Reporter that severe her mental health struggles anxiety and “mini” panic with her fans. The 25-year- attacks he was having on old has made it clear that set almost cost him his she struggles with acting career. social anxiety.

Being interviewed for Just after the the “Awards Chatter” release of her podcast, the 40-year-old debut album, actor said he first began “Over It”, experiencing anxiety in 2019, around 2007. Three years Summer later, while filming the unexindie movie “Puncture”, pectedly his condition had become cancelled severe. two dozen “It was the first time of her US I started having mini tour dates panic attacks on set. I to take care really started to think, of her mental ‘I’m not sure if this health. Since (acting) is the right thing that time, the for me, I’m not sure if singer has found I’m feeling as healthy as herself in a back I should be feeling’,” the and forth with people actor said. who question the seriousHis problems with ness of her condition. In anxiety even led him to 2019, after accepting her turn down Marvel when first Soul Train Award, they first approached Summer found she had him to try out for the to defend her- role of Captain America, self once repeatedly. Even offers of a higher salary and a decreased commitment to the number of movies he would appear in could not change his mind.

“My suffering would be my own,” he said of his initial decision.

It wasn’t until he was offered the role outright, and after he had talked it over with his therapist, trusted friends and family members – as well as fellow Marvel star and friend Robert Downey Jr – that he reconsidered and finally accepted the star-making role.

FOOD AND PAIN MANAGEMENT

By HANNAH FOSTERMIDDLETON, BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy, MCSP, SRP

THESE days, most of us know which foods are obviously good or bad for us in basic terms, such as too much sugar, too much salt, or not enough fruit and vegetables in our diet. But how many of us understand the impact of various foods on our system? And arguably more important, how many of us know that that our food intake directly affects the management of chronic pain?

Our body’s immune system responds to different external stimuli as well as what we put into it.

That response is inflammation as it works hard to purify our system keeping the good stuff and trying to rid itself of the bad effects.

Our body struggles continuously to keep us in a state of balanced health, but if we consistently assault it with wrong food choices, it loses the battle and we become subject to a vast array of illnesses or symptoms through inflammation.

These can include heart

HANNAH FOSTER-MIDDLETON disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, cancer, obesity, and even depression.

Prevention is always better than cure, so it makes sense to eliminate toxic foods from our diet, no matter how temptingly appealing they may taste.

The word “diet” seems to have a negative connotation for many people, but all it really means is what you eat on a regular basis.

So let’s call it nutrition rather than diet, and look at some of the things which either contribute to you maintaining good health or suffering from poor health which will cause you pain in one form or or another

as your body reacts to different stressors.

It would be wise and so helpful if you eliminate or at the very least, cut back, on these: processed foods, deli meats and fast food or pre-packaged food. Bread, pasta, rice, meat, tomatoes, eggplant, white potatoes, and peppers are also culprits, as is anything with partially hydrogenated oil,

sugar or sucrose, listed on the ingredients. Other items to be avoided are those which have additives for a long shelf life, such as chips and crackers, etcetera.

And we are mostly aware that saturated fats, such as an excess of butter, cakes, cookies, or other snacks or sweets, and especially sodas, are doing us a ton of damage.

Let’s look at what is good for us and readily available almost everywhere: fresh fruits and vegetables; avocados, grapefruit, berries, oranges, apples. Herbs and spices added to a meal are also great anti-oxidants.

Fresh lean poultry, such as chicken and turkey; beans, nuts, seeds (these last two can be added to whole grain or multi-grain cereal

or oatmeal) are beneficial.

Cook with healthy oils, such as olive oil, coconut and avocado. Supplement these with vitamins C, D3, the B vitamins, magnesium and zinc. Read the labels and make sure you are getting the purest versions available with no artificial fillers or additives.

Managing chronic pain is a complex challenge, but there is absolutely no doubt that a healthy antiinflammatory intake of good nutritional food items may well prevent you succumbing to serious disease, and if you are unfortunately in that predicament, it can certainly help with the resulting chronic pain management. If you are having physiotherapy, ask your therapist about your daily diet and how modifying it can assist with your treatment to achieve a better and more comfortable outcome in the long term.

• For questions and comments, call Hannah Foster-Middleton at 356 4806, e-mail genesisphysiotherapy@gmail.com, or visit www.physiotherapybahamas.com.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, January 11, 2022, PAGE 13

Pollution blamed for increase in undescended testicles IN A landmark published scientific study from March 2021, French researchers determined that there has been as high as a 50 percent increase in male infants born with undescended testes, mainly in highly polluted areas such as those having coal mines and metal factories. The study findings are hypothesis generating and cannot show conclusively that undescended testicles are directly caused by male fetal chemical exposure; with more target directed research being necessary.

Cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles, is the most common male genetic defect, occurring in one to eight percent of male infants. About 200,000 newborn boys are born with one or two undescended testicles in the United States every year.

Approximately 20 percent of premature male newborns have undescended testicles. The undescended testicles can occur on one side or both sides.

During the development of the male foetus in the womb, the development of the testes doesn’t initially start in the scrotal sac.

The onset of testicular development occurs with the testicles being located in the abdomen by the lower poles of the kidneys.

During the seventh month of pregnancy, the testicles begin to migrate down the abdomen and along the groin and eventually into the scrotum.

Undescended testes may be located in the abdomen, where they cannot be felt on clinical exam or they can be felt in the inguinal area of the groin. Most undescended testes will descend spontaneously from inside the abdomen or inguinal area of the groin into the scrotum, within the first six months after birth.

Approximately one percent of boys with undescended testicles will need corrective surgery to place the testicle into the correct anatomical position within the respective side of the scrotal sac.

Failure to correct undescended testicles could lead to issues with male infertility later in life and a slight increased risk

of testicular cancer.

The large French study found that there was a 36 percent increase in the number of boys undergoing corrective surgery for undescended testicles. Between 2002 and 2014, 39,382 boys in France had corrective cryptorchidism surgery. The French study concluded that exposure to hazardous chemicals by the male fetus in the womb, led to a disruption of hormones that led in some instances to unilateral or bilateral undescended testicles.

The French scientific study used a disease mapping model and data for the boy’s home address to identify 24 clusters of high populations of undescended testicles in boys throughout France. Many of these patient clusters were located in the central eastern and northern regions of France. The largest population of boys with undescended testicles occurred around the city of Lens in the Pas de Calais, a former major coal mining area.

Certain chemicals such as phthalates and pesticides are thought to increase the incidence of cryptorchidism.

In Lens, France, the risk of being born with an undescended testicle increased by more than 50 percent compared to the national French average. The rate of bilateral undescended testicles increased by nearly five fold.

Mining activity, mechanical and metal industries were present in the vast majority of the

French undescended testicles clusters. Incidences of bilateral undescended testicles were found to be much higher in agricultural areas such as vineyards and orchards, which were routinely sprayed with pesticides. Persistent environmental pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides, dioxins and metals are highly suspected to be linked to the incidence of undescended testes.

The fact that only boys operated on for cryptorchidism were accounted for in this large French study likely led to an

underestimation of the true number of boys with undescended testicles as many cases of undescended testes would have spontaneously descended within the first six months of the affected boy’s life.

There is some positive news regarding environmental pollution with European citizens being exposed to 41 percent less particulate pollution than 20 years ago, as a result of the European Environment Agency sweeping directed legislature changes related to pollution regulation standards.

Women are advised always to

maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet but during pregnancy, special precautions must be made to avoid exposure to harmful substances such as cigarette smoking, pesticides and known pollutants.

• Dr Greggory Pinto is a boardcertified Bahamian urologist and laparoscopic surgeon. He can be contacted at OakTree Medical Center, #2 Fifth Terrace & Mount Royal Avenue, Nassau, Telephone (242) 322-1145-7; email: welcome@urologycarebahamas.com, or visit the website:www.urologycarebahamas.com

REGRET CAN BE ALL-CONSUMING – A NEUROBEHAVIORAL SCIENTIST EXPLAINS HOW PEOPLE CAN OVERCOME IT

By J KIM PENBERTHY Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia

A FRIEND of mine – we will call him “Jay” – was working for IBM in New York City in the early ’90s. He was a computer programmer and made a good salary. Occasionally, competitors and startups approached Jay to join their companies. He had an offer from an interesting but small organisation in Seattle, but the salary was paltry and most of the offer package was in company shares. After consulting with friends and his parents, Jay declined the offer and stayed with IBM. He has regretted it ever since.

That small company was Microsoft.

Regret is a very real reaction to a disappointing event in your life, a choice you made that can’t be changed, something you said that you can’t take back. It’s one of those feelings you can’t seem to shake, a heavy and intrusive negative emotion that can last for minutes, days, years or even a lifetime. Imaging studies reveal that feelings of regret show increased activity in an area of the brain called the medial orbitofrontal cortex.

Dealing with regret is even more difficult because of the other negative emotions connected to it: remorse, sorrow and helplessness. Regret can increase our stress, negatively affect physical health and throw off the balance of hormone and immune systems. Regret is not only unpleasant. It is unhealthy.

As a licenced clinical psychologist at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, I conduct research on stressful emotions. Through this work, I help patients overcome regret, move on with their lives and grow.

And that is the good news:

forgiveness (to oneself), commit publicly (share it) and then hold on to that forgiveness and stay true to the decision. Research shows that six hours of work with a trained professional using this model can have a positive impact.

Regret can be overcome through interventions like therapy and evidence-based strategies.

A ‘sense of stuckness’ There are basically two ways to experience regret: One is what researchers refer to as the action path and the other is the inaction path. That is, we can regret the things we did – or we can regret the things we did not do.

Research suggests that action-related regrets, although painful, spur people to learn from their mistakes and move on.

But regret related to the inaction path – the things undone, the opportunities lost – is harder to fix. This kind of regret is more likely to lead to depression, anxiety, a sense of “stuckness”

and a feeling of longing over not knowing what could have been.

As with other negative emotions, it doesn’t work to avoid, deny or try to squash regret. In the long run, these tactics only increase negative feelings and prolong the time you suffer with them. Rather than stay stuck, people can manage these emotions in four steps: First, accept the fact that you are feeling them; determine why you are feeling them; allow yourself to learn from them; and finally, release them and move forward.

You can help release these feelings of regret by practicing self-compassion.

This means reminding yourself that you are human, you are doing the best you can, and you can learn from

past decisions and grow.

Showing this compassion to yourself can help you accept and move past the regret.

Accepting that you have feelings of regret does not mean that you like these feelings. It just means you know they are there. It also helps to identify the specific emotion you’re feeling.

Instead of telling yourself, “I feel bad,” say “This is me, feeling regret.” Simple as it sounds, the semantic difference has a big emotional impact.

Accept, acknowledge and forgive yourself Acknowledging your thoughts and feelings can bring relief from strong negative emotions. In Jay’s case, he could remind himself that he had no crystal

ball. Instead, he made the best decision he could, given the information he had at the time, and given the same circumstances, most of his contemporaries would have made the same decision.

This method of noticing and then restructuring your thoughts is sometimes called cognitive reappraisal.

Seeing the situation in a different way may help reduce regret and help you make future decisions.

Forgiving yourself for actions taken or not taken is a powerful step toward overcoming regret. This has been formalised into a commonly used cognitive psychological model called REACH, which asks people to recall the hurt (face it), empathise (be kind and compassionate), altruistically offer

More knowledge = less regret At first, Jay pushed away his feelings of regret. He continued to struggle with thoughts of what he missed.

He did not change until he approached and explored his feelings of regret, first with a friend and ultimately with a therapist.

Eventually, he accepted the pain of not knowing what might have happened, but also reminded himself of his rationale at the time, which was actually quite reasonable. He demonstrated compassion towards himself, and spoke to himself kindly, the way he would when talking to a loved one or close friend.

Practicing this self-compassion allowed him to build resilience, move on from the negative emotions and ultimately forgive himself.

On making future decisions, Jay recognized the importance of obtaining as much information about opportunities as possible.

He challenged himself to learn about the big players in the field. Doing so allowed him to overcome his regret and move forward. New opportunities came along. Jay, currently employed by another giant computer engineering company, is doing quite well for himself, and has been able to move beyond the regret of his past decision.

• This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.

Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com

PAGE 14, Tuesday, January 11, 2022

THE TRIBUNE

A rose that grows from concrete

BAHAMIAN BLOGGER LAUNCHES SUCCESSFUL SHOP AND EVENTS COMPANY DURING PANDEMIC

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net

INSPIRED by a poem by the late iconic rapper Tupac Shakur, Bahamian Kiara Rose launched a blog in the midst of the pandemic which has evolved into a popular beauty and lifestyle website and produced an accompanying accessories shop.

The poem in question, “The Rose That Grew From the Concrete”, was written between 1989 and 1991 and refers to how something great can grow from less-than-ideal circumstances – like Kiara’s blog and business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In 2020, with much time on my hands at home, I started writing daily and decided to start my first blog. In December 2020 I introduced my

blog to my friends and family, and on January 22, 2021, I launched my blog and shop: From The Concrete. This name was

inspired by the late Tupac Shakur’s famous poem ‘From The Concrete’as it tells a great story about great things that

KIARA has started her own version of an outdoor cinema experience with her company Kamp Out.

can grow from unfavourable circumstances...like the pandemic. It is also a play on my middle name Rose,” she told Tribune Woman.

The groundwork for having her own blog and BLOGGER and shop was laid entrepreneur during colKiara Rose and, lege.

While pictured, some of “I am attending the merchandise a lover the Univerfrom her store. of street sity of Central style, so the Arkansas, Kiara graphic tee pursued numerwas a must. ous internships and Additionally, if you gained as much experience in the corporate world know me well, I am always carrying a bag or purse, so as she could.

“While abroad, I knew the all-purpose crossbody I wanted to do more out- and small tote was added,” side of a nine to five. I was she said.

Operating a business a lover of blogs and would spend most of my free time runs in Kiara’s blood, so reading blogs by women to say; both her maternal with similar backgrounds,” and paternal grandparents were business owners. she said.

After launching the blog, And as a child, she spent Kiara said so many readers summers with her grandresponded to her, sharing mothers and saw first-hand how they juggled their with her home feelings lives and and sentheir timents business similar to ventures. the ones She also she was spent posting many about. days after On her school blog, watchshe talks ing her about dad carry everyout his thing duties as from an excepbeauty tional routines father to the while imporrunning a successful tance of mental health.

And with each post, business.

So beyond running a her following grew. She then decided to add blog- blog, Kiara was itching to branded merchandise to expand her wings when the website, which trans- it came to business ideas. formed the platform into a And inspiration came to her while she was living blog and shop.

abroad in Houston, Texas.

“While living in Houston, before returning home, I attended a drive-in movie theatre for the first time.

This became quite popular in the city during the pandemic because all theatres were closed. I was excited and really enjoyed attending it,” she said.

“I talked about it for weeks and expressed to my parents that I wished this was a thing back home.

They told me it was popular some time ago and they hadn’t been to one in years.

I immediately got the idea to do my research to see how this can be revived.”

She knew something on the scale of a drive-in movie theatre would require a lot of funding, so she decided to start something similar on a smaller scale.

The result is Kiara’s Camp Out, an event planning company that specialises in setting up teepee style structures and offers big screen rentals for customers to have a unique outdoor movie-viewing experience.

“I had my first Kamp Out in my backyard with my friends and we had a grand time. I told them this was something I wanted to start as a business and they all supported me. One month later, I bought enough equipment to host a family of 25, and Kamp Out has been running ever since,” she said.

WOMEN ARE FINDING NEW WAYS TO INFLUENCE MALE-LED FAITHS

By EMILY COSTELLO Managing Editor, The Conversation US and THALIA PLATA Editor

that if women do not start to have more top leadership posts in some of these traditions, that they’re not going to survive.

IN SOME religions, women are barred from serving as clergy or excluded from top leadership roles. Nonetheless, women have broken into influential roles in these male-led faiths. How are these women forging new pathways in these traditionally patriarchal religions?

The Associated Press, Religion News Service and The Conversation held a webinar with academics, journalists and religious leaders to discuss the future of women in faith leadership on December 9, 2021.

The panel featured Ingrid Mattson, chair of Islamic Studies at Huron University College at Western University; Emilie M Townes, dean and distinguished professor of Womanist Ethics and Society at Vanderbilt Divinity School; Carolyn Woo, distinguished president’s fellow for global development at Purdue University, and Jue Liang, visiting assistant professor of religion at Denison University. Roxanne Stone, managing editor of Religion News Service, acted as moderator.

Below are some highlights from the discussion.

Please note that answers have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Q: What are your thoughts on that, and where do you think we’re headed?

Carolyn Woo: Changes are inevitable, but the direction and the sources of those changes are not homogeneous. You have young people who walk away from the church and become disaffiliated. On the other hand, I also see women who have started ministries for women athletes. Within the Catholic Church, (women have started ministries) to try to understand our own menstrual cycles so that they could appreciate the female body.

Emilie M Townes: Change is happening, but I always look at the structures of the change happening. (We may have more women seminary students than men), but if the basic structure of the church remains the same, the roles perpetuate the structure. I like to think more in terms of transformation. I think it pushes us further along.

Q: Some of the women

KATHARINE Jefferts Schori was elected in 2006 as the first female Presiding Bishop in the history of the US Episcopal Church and also the first female primate in the Anglican Communion. (faith leaders I’ve spoken) with (talk) about how leadership isn’t just in titled positions, but in influence.

What is your definition of leadership? In the male-led faiths that you’re paying attention to, are you seeing any examples of women taking on nontraditional, unofficial leadership roles?

Carolyn Woo: I think leadership is the ability to have a vision that really advances that particular organization and serves that organisation, and the capacity to translate that vision into action. I think influence is very important.

I think informal influence for women comes from the fact that perhaps (they) are very invested with (their) work and have expertise and have good relationships with people and credibility.

Those are informal sources of influence, but it is not fair.

Women shouldn’t only operate with informal power – not because it is not useful, but because they also deserve formal recognition of their position.

Formal positions allow you to have a vote. You don’t have to whisper it to somebody else.

Jue Liang: The Buddhist way of thinking about leadership is more in the identity or the role of a teacher or a role model.

Everyone has the potential to become enlightened, just like the Buddha. (In Buddhism) leadership is considered, at least in theory, open to all. (Historically, it has not been) the case. But through education and ordination, we’re (seeing) more (role) models

THE NUMBER of women religious leaders is growing, but the 2018-2019 National Congregations Study, which surveyed 5,300 US religious communities, found that only 56.4 percent of these communities would allow a woman to “be head clergy person or primary religious leader.”

Photo: Young Kwak/AP that are inhabiting the body of women. (Leading) more women to think, “Maybe I can do that too.”

Q: Are women who have informal or non-clergy roles of influence – say in publishing, social media or academia – able to maintain that informal influence long term?

Emilie M Townes: I think our ability to lead and influence is going to be tenuous (in any circumstances).

Influence is always going to be dependent on whether or not people are listening.

I think it becomes even more tenuous if you are in a more conservative setting that has a hierarchy of roles where the thought of challenging is just not a part of everyday life.

Ingrid Mattson: I see a lot of self-censorship. When I speak to women religious leaders about issues that impact women, there’s a lot of caution that the majority exercise. They feel like their authority is very tentative and that all it takes is a few guys calling them a radical feminist (to lose their influence). The women who are ready to step out have other sources of support.

They are at universities or women’s organisations, so that even if they are dismissed in this way, they still have a basis for support.

When we talk about these issues (that women in male-led major religions face), there is almost an assumption that change is inevitable, that younger generations are just not going to stand for this. And

• This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. Read the original article at https://theconversation.com.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, January 11, 2022, PAGE 15

RARE TONI MORRISON SHORT STORY TO BE PUBLISHED NEW YORK Associated Press

TO MUCH of the world the late Toni Morrison was a novelist, celebrated for such classics as “Beloved,” “Song of Solomon” and “The Bluest Eye.” But the Nobel laureate did not confine herself to one kind of writing.

Morrison, pictured, also completed plays, poems, essays, and short stories, one of which is coming out as a book on February 1.

“Recitatif,” written by Morrison in the early 1980s and rarely seen over the following decades, follows the lives of two women from

childhood to their contrasting fortunes as adults.

Zadie Smith contributes an introduction and the story’s audio edition is read by the actor Bahni Turpin.

According to Autumn

least since her college years at Howard University and Cornell University, though she never published a story collection. “Recitatif” was included in the 1983 release “Confirmation: An Anthology of African American Women,” co-edited by the poet-playwright Amiri Baraka and now out of print.

“One of the main takeaways from it (‘Recitatif’) is that you’ll begin to think of her as someone who experimented with form. You’ll get away from the idea that she was solely a novelist and think of her as someone who was trying all kinds of writing,” Womack said.

M Womack, a professor of English and African American Studies at Princeton University (where Morrison taught for years), the author had written short fiction at

“Recitatif” refers to a musical expression defined

by Merriam-Webster as “a rhythmically free vocal style that imitates the natural inflections of speech,” a style Morrison’s often suggested.

The story tells of a series of encounters between Roberta and Twyla, one of whom is Black, the other white, although we are left to guess which is which.

They meet as girls at the St Bonaventure children’s shelter (“it was something else to be stuck in a strange place with a girl from a whole other race,” remembers Twyla, the story’s narrator). And they run

THE WEATHER REPORT

5-Day Forecast

TODAY

ORLANDO

High: 69° F/21° C Low: 56° F/13° C

TAMPA

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Breezy with a few showers

Winds subsiding; evening showers

Winds subsiding with showers

Some rain and a t‑storm in the a.m.

Winds gradually subsiding

Comfortable with partial sunshine

High: 77°

Low: 66°

High: 74° Low: 62°

High: 76° Low: 61°

High: 75° Low: 62°

High: 76° Low: 63°

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

77° F

57° F

73°-60° F

74°-56° F

74°-63° F

81°-60° F

The exclusive AccuWeather RealFeel Temperature® is an index that combines the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body—everything that affects how warm or cold a person feels. Temperatures reflect the high and the low for the day.

N

almanac

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ABACO

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High: 73° F/23° C Low: 66° F/19° C

12‑25 knots

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High: 73° F/23° C Low: 64° F/18° C

12‑25 knots

FT. LAUDERDALE

FREEPORT

High: 74° F/23° C Low: 66° F/19° C

N E S

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WEST PALM BEACH

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| Go to AccuWeather.com

TONIGHT

High: 71° F/22° C Low: 56° F/13° C

High: 74° F/23° C Low: 61° F/16° C

MIAMI

High: 74° F/23° C Low: 66° F/19° C

10‑20 knots

Statistics are for Nassau through 1 p.m. yesterday Temperature High ................................................... 81° F/27° C Low .................................................... 70° F/21° C Normal high ....................................... 77° F/25° C Normal low ........................................ 65° F/18° C Last year’s high ................................. 73° F/23° C Last year’s low ................................... 62° F/17° C Precipitation As of 1 p.m. yesterday ................................. 0.00” Year to date ................................................. 1.38” Normal year to date ..................................... 0.43”

ELEUTHERA

NASSAU

High: 77° F/25° C Low: 66° F/19° C

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2022

High: 77° F/25° C Low: 68° F/20° C

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KEY WEST

High: 75° F/24° C Low: 68° F/20° C

The higher the AccuWeather UV IndexTM number, the greater the need for eye and skin protection.

tiDes For nassau High Today

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8‑16 knots

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Low

Ht.(ft.)

0.5 0.1

2.4 2.0

9:12 a.m.

9:12 p.m.

Wednesday 3:43 a.m.

3:51 p.m.

2.4 1.9

10:10 a.m. 0.4 10:01 p.m. 0.0

Thursday

4:33 a.m.

4:42 p.m.

2.5 1.8

11:03 a.m. 0.4 10:47 p.m. 0.0

Friday

5:19 a.m.

5:29 p.m.

2.5 1.9

11:50 a.m. 0.3 11:32 p.m. 0.0

Saturday

6:02 a.m.

6:14 p.m.

2.6 1.9

12:33 p.m. 0.2 ‑‑‑‑‑ ‑‑‑‑‑

Sunday

6:43 a.m.

6:55 p.m.

2.7 2.0

12:15 a.m. ‑0.1 1:14 p.m. 0.1

Monday

7:22 a.m.

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2.8 2.0

12:56 a.m. ‑0.1 1:52 p.m. 0.0

sun anD moon Sunrise Sunset

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SAN SALVADOR

GREAT EXUMA

High: 78° F/26° C Low: 70° F/21° C

High: 79° F/26° C Low: 73° F/23° C

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into each other on occasion years later, whether at a Howard Johnson’s in upstate New York, where Twyla was working and Roberta comes in with a man scheduled to meet with Jimi Hendrix, or later at a nearby Food Emporium.

“Once, twelve years ago, we passed like strangers,” Twyla says. “A black girl and a white girl meeting in a Howard Johnson’s on the road and having nothing to say. One in a blue and white triangle waitress hat — the other with a male companion on her way to see Hendrix. Now we were behaving like sisters separated for much too long.”

High: 79° F/26° C Low: 72° F/22° C

7‑14 knots

MAYAGUANA High: 79° F/26° C Low: 71° F/22° C

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

CROOKED ISLAND / ACKLINS RAGGED ISLAND High: 79° F/26° C Low: 74° F/23° C

High: 79° F/26° C Low: 73° F/23° C

GREAT INAGUA High: 81° F/27° C Low: 72° F/22° C

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marine Forecast ABACO ANDROS CAT ISLAND CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA FREEPORT GREAT EXUMA GREAT INAGUA LONG ISLAND MAYAGUANA NASSAU RAGGED ISLAND SAN SALVADOR

Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday:

WINDS NE at 12‑25 Knots ENE at 8‑16 Knots NE at 8‑16 Knots ENE at 10‑20 Knots NNE at 7‑14 Knots ENE at 10‑20 Knots NE at 7‑14 Knots ENE at 8‑16 Knots NNE at 8‑16 Knots ENE at 10‑20 Knots NE at 12‑25 Knots ENE at 8‑16 Knots NE at 7‑14 Knots ENE at 10‑20 Knots NE at 8‑16 Knots ENE at 8‑16 Knots NE at 7‑14 Knots ENE at 10‑20 Knots NE at 7‑14 Knots ENE at 8‑16 Knots NE at 7‑14 Knots ENE at 8‑16 Knots NE at 8‑16 Knots ENE at 8‑16 Knots NE at 7‑14 Knots ENE at 10‑20 Knots

WAVES 6‑10 Feet 5‑9 Feet 1‑2 Feet 1‑2 Feet 2‑4 Feet 6‑10 Feet 2‑4 Feet 3‑6 Feet 3‑5 Feet 8‑12 Feet 3‑6 Feet 3‑5 Feet 0‑1 Feet 1‑2 Feet 1‑3 Feet 2‑4 Feet 1‑3 Feet 2‑4 Feet 4‑7 Feet 5‑9 Feet 1‑2 Feet 2‑4 Feet 1‑3 Feet 1‑3 Feet 1‑2 Feet 3‑5 Feet

VISIBILITY 6 Miles 10 Miles 7 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 5 Miles 10 Miles 6 Miles 10 Miles 6 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 6 Miles 10 Miles 7 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 5 Miles 6 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 5 Miles

WATER TEMPS. 77° F 76° F 79° F 78° F 79° F 79° F 80° F 80° F 78° F 78° F 79° F 75° F 78° F 78° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 78° F 78° F 80° F 80° F 79° F 79° F

PAGE 16

TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2022

Bahamian teacher finds strength to face man who sexually abused her as child

By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net IT WAS through a letter written to her mother when she was 16 years old that Markel Williams finally unburdened herself of the terrible secret she had been carrying for over a decade.

She was just five years old when she was sexually molested. She told no one of her ordeal and was left to grapple with the pain and shame on her own.

Now in her 30s, the Grand Bahamian teacher is confronting her trauma for the first time in her life through therapy and embarking on a healing journey.

As a school teacher, she is adamant about teaching her young students to never keep quiet about inappropriate behaviour they may be subjected to.

Many victims of sexual abuse are violated by perpetrators known to them and whose care they are entrusted to. This was also the case in Markel’s situation; her abuser was a neighbour and someone considered “a friend of the family”.

“I was living with my Grammy and mother but they had to work and needed someone to watch me until they got off. So my Grammy left me with her friend, who was also a neighbour. However, her friend ended up leaving me with her husband,” she told Tribune Woman.

Markel said this man told her they were going to play a game and then he raped her.

To keep Markel from telling anyone what happened, her abuser would give her gifts.

“He would be super nice to my family,” she said.

The molestation did not end there.

“When he came by us, he usually lifted me up, ensuring my body rubbed across his private area. This man was sick and slick,” she said.

Five-year-old Markel did not understand what was happening to her at the time. It was only when she was older that the magnitude of what she had experienced dawned on her.

“When my mom got married, my stepdad moved us from around that neighbourhood when I was about 12.”

Though she did not have to see her neighbour anymore, the abuse she suffered always remained with her.

“I mustered the strength to write my mother a letter telling her what happened when I was 16. No one knew, not even suspected, what had happened to me,” she said.

After revealing what she had endured, Markel’s mother reported the matter to the police. Unfortunately, the family received no justice.

NEW BOOK DETAILS HER JOURNEY TO FORGIVENESS “They took the matter to the police station when Mummy read the letter. But nothing came out of that.

They didn’t push the issue,” she said.

As more family members became aware of Markel’s abuse, tensions grew and the situation finally escalated in a confrontation with her abuser that almost turned violent.

“Of course, he denied any wrongdoing and said that he did not touch me, but he did,” she said.

Today, Markel is receiving professional help to deal with the aftermath of her abuse that has lingered for years. She said it has impacted every romantic relationship she has had as an adult.

“I felt mentally I did not heal from that and I never got the professional help to get past what happened. I was disturbed. And mainly all the guys I dated could sense it. I was not diagnosed bipolar but I acted that way. I was looking for a rescue in them,” she said.

Markel said therapy has been helping her to “sort out her life and let go of everything that tried to destroy” her.

She hopes all individuals who have experienced abuse are able to get the help they need and find a way to dig deep and forgive their perpetrators.

It was her Christian faith, she said, that allowed her to find the strength to face her abuser and leave him with a kind word.

“I told him I had forgiven him. It had been so long since he had seen me.

And when he did, he said he was proud to see how I had turned out. He is old enough to be my grandfather,” she said.

Markel goes into detail about how God enabled her to forgive her abuser in her book “Messages From God”, a 30-day devotional.

She also has a message for parents: “Do the best in your power to protect your children and be very aware of the nature of the people around them, and if you suspect a person is sketchy, go with them and do not leave your children around such people.”

The Office of the Spouse will reach out to victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse and partner with organisations in the coming weeks in its continued and committed fight against abuse.

In a statement released last Thursday, Ann Marie Davis, representative of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister, encouraged victims to come forward to help eliminate the stigma

attached to domestic abuse.

Her statement referred to a recent Tribune Woman article on a book by Sheron J N Baptiste, who chronicled the horrors and subsequent fallout from her personal experience with sexual molestation, a traditionally taboo subject in polite Bahamian society.

“Like too many of our young girls, boys and women, the victim could have suffered in silence and shame rather than overcome by openly confronting her demons, her fears, and her psychological and emotional pain,” Mrs Davis said.

“I publicly thank, commend and congratulate author and sexual abuse survivor Sheron J N Baptiste for breaking her silence and opening up about her painful experience in her book, ‘The Molested Fornicator: The After Effects of Being Molested’.

STRONGER than ever - Grand Bahamian teacher Markel Williams is working through the trauma she experienced as a child and inspiring others to do the same with her new book, “Messages from God”.