03192024 NEWS

PM CALLS FOR UN REFORM OVER GAZA

Davis hits out at veto used to block calls for ceasefire

By KEILE CAMPBELL kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis called for the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to be “revamped and reformed” after the United States used its veto power to kill multiple draft resolutions calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, where thousands of Palestinians have been killed.

Mr Davis’ comments,

which surprised some yesterday given this country’s relationship and reliance on the United States, came during a joint press conference in Botswana with President Mokgweetsi Masisi. Journalists asked Mr Davis if he agreed with some leaders of African countries that the UNSC, which has five permanent members with veto power, should be reformed.

PROPERTY TAX COLLECTION UP BY A FIFTH ON LAST YEAR

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

REAL property tax collections are pacing 20 percent ahead of the previous record year, the Government’s top finance official disclosed yesterday, as he predicted it will be “very close” to its full-year deficit target.

Simon Wilson, the Ministry of Finance’s financial

By

secretary, told Tribune Business that sustaining “accelerating” real property tax revenues beyond their traditional MarchApril peak will be critical in determining whether the $131.1m deficit goal set last May remains within reach. The other critical factor was controlling subsidies and transfers to loss-making state-owned enterprises.

THE Bahamas appears set to have its first licensed skydiving operation after a Grand Bahama company conducted a successful demo dive under the watchful eyes of the Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas (CAAB) yesterday.

Skydive The Bahamas conducted two safety jumps from 10,000ft that landed shortly after

noon at Taino Beach in front of the Stoned Crab Restaurant.

Brian Strong, co-owner of the company, said the CAAB indicated it would sign the “authorisation to give us a permanent licence here in Freeport, Bahamas”.

“CAAB said everything went as perfectly as was planned. It was safe and secure,” he added.

CAAB officials Delvin

Jumps

Bahamians

‘Dorian tore my home apart - now my new home has burned down’

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter

jrussell@tribunemedia.net

A FIRE destroyed Melva McPhee’s Abaco home on her birthday, five years after Hurricane Dorian tore her previous house to shreds.

The 67-year-old was celebrating her birthday in Grand Bahama on Saturday when her daughter called her with the bad news. She said the reality of losing her home a second time in five years shook her.

“I was sitting at the table having my dinner and I just cry,” she said. She said she lost over $5,000 in furniture and clothes. When Hurricane Dorian destroyed her previous house, she lost photos of her late husband. Now, the fire has burned pictures of her children and grandchildren.

from page one

experience was exhilarating. Their descent lasted about seven minutes.

“You see the whole island,” said Ms Pages.

“You see the beautiful colours, the turquoise waters, the canals, and the houses, and then landing here was amazing.”

“The simulation has nothing on the real thing,” Mr Pierre added. “It was a new experience.”

“I am turning 30, so I knocked that off the bucket list early.”

Mr Strong, who owns and operates a skydive operation in the US, said his company has been

SOARING INTO GB’S FUTURE

operating for 29 years and has a good safety record. He said experienced tandem instructors are a part of the team, including co-owner Jon Hartley, who has done 19,000 jumps, and Christopher Dunbar, who has just under 7,000.

“The only incident we had was when an experienced skydiver passed away from something that was neglect,” he said. “We never had any deaths other than that. We have a very good safety record.”

The company hopes to offer dives at various areas on the island and to conduct ten jumps a day. According to the company’s website, a jump costs $599.

TOUCHDOWN at Taino for Olivia Pages after her skydive in Grand Bahama and, top, she is pictured during the jump. Photos: Vandyke Hepburn, and top photo courtesy of Skydive the Bahamas

PM calls for UN reform over Gaza

“We all understand what’s going on in Israel right now,” he said. “I mean, there’s an outcry now, and because of countries exercising their veto power, nothing is happening to bring relief or to bring peace to the Middle East, and the time has come for the UN to be the UN and what it is established for to ensure peace is in the world, and peace will not be in the world as long as one country has the ability to say ‘no‘ to it.”

The US vetoed a UN resolution for a ceasefire for the third time last month, arguing it would undermine negotiations to release hostages held by Hamas, the militant organisation that attacked Israel in October, prompting months of hostilities.

President Masisi “concurred completely” with Mr Davis.

“These were brought about because of our common position with respect to how we look at the multilateral order, and so in coming together, there are great dividends to be drawn out of this collaboration and this relationship,” he said.

The Bahamas has repeatedly called for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

In October, the country co-sponsored and voted in favour of a resolution calling for an “immediate and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities between the involved parties”. “The resolution also demanded the unhindered provision of essential humanitarian aid to civilians throughout the Gaza Strip, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all civilians who are being illegally held captive, demanding their safety, well-being, and humane treatment in compliance with international law,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

According to the Associated Press, more than 30,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed since the conflict began, including over 12,300 children and 8,400 women. Millions have been displaced.

More than 1,400 Israelis have been killed.

Many countries have long called for reforming the UNSC. In 2002, then-Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell said The Bahamas believed “the time has come for us to take the hard decisions and agree to a practical programme of reform that fully takes into account the need for equitable membership and for a more democratic and transparent council”.

DAVIS WANTS TO SEE FINANCIAL INDUSTRY BACK TO 30% OF GDP

By KEILE CAMPBELL kcampbell @ tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis said he is fighting to see the financial services industry represent 30 percent of the country’s GDP as it was before scrutiny and regulatory pressure from other

jurisdictions caused it to shrink. His comment came during a joint press conference with Botswana President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi yesterday. He reiterated his familiar criticism of the European Union (EU) and the Organisation

BTC NO-SHOW IN PM DEATH THREAT ALLEGATION CASE

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

THE lawyer for a

man accused of threatening to kill Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis made a no-case submission yesterday after the prosecution closed its case.

The Crown closed its case after a BTC representative again failed to appear to give testimony as acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley presided.

Police officers had earlier testified that Isaac Roberts, 21, called the Central Police Station to demand Lincoln Bain’s release after a protest outside Baha Mar. The defendant allegedly threatened Mr Davis’ life if his demands were not met.

After waiting in court from 10am yesterday for the BTC witness to arrive, prosecutor Inspector Deon Barr closed his case around 4pm that afternoon.

Inspector Barr claimed that Roberts confessed to threats against the prime

minister during his official police interview. He further said the defendant admitted that someone would go after Prime Minister Davis if Bain were not released. He said Roberts made this confession without coercion.

Bjorn Ferguson, who represents the defendant, made a no-case submission, saying the evidence against his client was “tenuous”.

Mr Ferguson submitted that the prime minister had not testified that the alleged call put him in fear. He said there was no evidence that the call made the prime minister fear for his life. He said his client noted in the mentioned interview that he did not intend to instil fear in Mr Davis or direct harm towards him.

After the lawyer’s submission, Magistrate Reckley told him that an officer wrote during the police interview that Roberts said during the call that if Mr Bain was not released, Brave “ga dead”. The matter was adjourned to April 3.

for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) for trying to be “the authoritarian and police of the world in financial services matters”.

He said: “The Bahamas was a leading financial services centre in the world for many years. Come 2000, because of the assault on

what I call ‘the offshore jurisdictions’ when that made up over 30 per cent of my GDP, we are now struggling with around 15 per cent, but I’m fighting back.” Prime Minister Davis said blacklistings by the EU and OECD weakened this country’s financial services sector.

He said there are similarities among countries that have been blacklisted.

“They’re either small countries, small island developing states; they all have been former colonies or protectorates or one or the other of that grouping.

They’re all black-governed and they’re all continually

exploited or attempted to be exploited by the laws.”

“One thing that the global south cannot escape is that it cannot go at it alone. We have to collaborate. We have to be in partnership. Otherwise, the global north will continue to exploit, dominate, and keep us on our knees.”

PRIME Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, above and left, during his visit to Botswana.

Photos: OPM

Murderers among those who will be eligible for parole

By EARYEL BOWLEG Tribune Staff Reporter ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

PEOPLE sentenced to prison for life, including murderers, will be eligible for parole under the newly released Conditional Release of Offenders Bill.

The bill, which has been in the works for over a decade, outlines the parole regime, which involves the conditional release of

prisoners before they complete their sentences. When sentencing people for life imprisonment, courts would be required to specify the minimum period of incarceration that offenders must serve before being eligible for parole consideration.

The bill says that period must “satisfy the requirements of retribution, deterrence, and rehabilitation”.

Murderers sentenced to life must serve at least 25 years. People who are not sentenced to life imprisonment could be eligible for full parole consideration after serving at least sixty percent of their sentence and for day parole after serving 50 percent. A Unit of Offender Rehabilitation and Reentry Services would be established to interview

parole applicants and victims of offences. That unit would decide whether the applicant is a suitable candidate for conditional release on parole, assess the risks of the applicant re-offending and endangering the community, and make a recommendation regarding the suitability of the applicant’s proposed residence.

The unit would also make recommendations on the

conditions to be imposed on the applicant if parole is granted.

A board of twenty people would be established to review applications for conditional release on parole and either grant or refuse them. The board could also suspend or revoke conditions imposed on applicants after parole is granted.

The board could mandate

STEPS

SIGNS NEW LIFE

LUCAYAN National Park in Grand Bahama now has new interpretive signage thanks to the support of the Sandals Foundation.

The eight new interpretive signs were installed in February and will enrich the visitor experience while promoting environmental conservation and cultural heritage awareness.

Located throughout Lucayan National Park (LNP), the signs offer visitors information on the park’s diverse ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and historical significance.

Each sign includes vivid imagery, concise descriptions, and interactive elements.

Before Hurricane Dorian, LNP, was one of most visited parks in the BNT’s park system, so replacing the signs lost in the storm was considered critically important.

“We are thrilled to reintroduce these interpretive signs in Lucayan National

Park, symbolising our determination to preserve this natural treasure despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Dorian,” said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, executive director of the Bahamas National Trust.

“The support from the Sandals Foundation has been significant in our restoration efforts, underscoring the importance of collaboration in safeguarding our environment and heritage.” The Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, has long been committed to supporting sustainable development and environmental conservation throughout the Caribbean. The sponsorship of these interpretive signs reflects their dedication to promoting environmental education and fostering a deeper connection to nature among local communities and visitors alike.

“Our partnership with

that a parolee be electronically monitored.

The bill outlines the procedure for an emergency recall of a grant of parole. Parolees who are arrested and charged with a criminal offence while on parole have “the status of an offender on remand”. Their parole is immediately revoked. Once parole is forfeited, a person could be sentenced to two years.

PARK

the Bahamas National Trust signifies our shared commitment to rebuilding and revitalising communities impacted by natural disasters,” said Heidi Clarke, executive director of the Sandals Foundation. “We are honoured to contribute to the restoration of Lucayan National Park and to support initiatives that promote environmental awareness and cultural appreciation.”

The installation of the interpretive signs is part of a broader initiative by the Bahamas National Trust to enhance visitor facilities and educational resources across its network of national parks and protected areas.

LNP is one of three protected areas under BNT management on Grand Bahama in a network of 33 parks and protected areas nationwide.

For more information about LNP and the BNT, visit www.bnt.bs.

WITNESS SAYS SALARY WAS WITHHELD AND NIB STOPPED AFTER HE REFUSED TO REPORT TO DONALDSON OFFICE

By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net

A

of the Water and Sewerage Corporation (WSC) testified that his salary was withheld after he failed to follow instructions from Elwood Donaldson.

John Bowleg, who had previously served as acting assistant general manager of the corporation’s internal control and compliance unit, also claimed his NIB payments stopped and his telephone and email were disconnected.

The alleged incidents happened around January 2021.

Before this, Mr Bowleg said his department conducted various audits and emailed then-WSC board member George Carey requesting information on contacts over $100,000. He said the department wanted to know if the contracts above $100,000 received board approval. “We were looking into those companies and essentially digging deep into those companies and looking at all the records that pertains to how those contracts would’ve been issued,” he testified yesterday. He said he told Mr Carey

if he didn’t hear back from him within a certain period, the department would audit all contracts worth $100,000.

He said Mr Carey allegedly responded that he saw “no improprieties” with the contract awards.

“He would’ve mentioned specifically that the types of contracts from where he sits on the board, that they would’ve gone through a procurement process and that the same would’ve been presented to the board and approved by the board and the minutes of the board would reflect the same,” he claimed.

He said although he later

received a written request from Mr Donaldson to report to the corporation’s office, he refused to go because COVID-19 guidelines were still in place.

“After I had that conversation with Mr Donaldson, I received various correspondence, and around the same time, my salary would’ve been withheld,” he said. “I think I was removed from national insurance.” He said he could no longer access several files, and his work telephone and email were disconnected.

He said he was later removed from the corporation’s internal control and

compliance division and other responsibilities were taken from him.

When cross-examined by Damian Gomez, KC, Mr Bowleg agreed with the suggestion that he was not being singled out when Mr Donaldson requested his presence at the corporation.

“He was actually asking you to do what was expected of all of the senior managers,” Mr Gomez said. “And isn’t it true that you resisted his invitation?”

Mr Bowleg replied that he only resisted Mr Donaldson’s invitation to attend at that particular location. He said the former general manager could access him in other ways. Asked if he issued a writ against the corporation, the witness said he did so in response to various workplace grievances.

Carl Oliver, a former WSC board member, also testified about his involvement in the case and the procurement process.

He testified that the board could approve contracts above $250,000, but they ultimately required Cabinet approval.

Mr Donaldson is one of five persons on trial. He is being tried with Long Island MP Adrian Gibson, Peaches Farquharson, Joan Knowles and Jerome Missick.

Mr Gomez, KC, Murrio Ducillel KC, Bryan Bastian, Raphael Moxey, Ryan Eve, Ian Cargill and Donald Saunders represent the defendants.

Meanwhile, acting director of public prosecutions Ms Cordell Frazier, Cashena Thompson, Karine MacVean, Rashied Edgecombe are the Crown’s prosecutors.

‘Dorian tore my home apart - now my new home has burned down’

from page one

She said the fire started when her 17-year-old grandson used their portable gas stove –– powered by fuel in a can –– in the kitchen. She said the gas tank was not set correctly, causing the stove to explode when it was turned on.

She said that although the flame’s flares hit her grandson, knocking him back to the refrigerator, no one was hurt.

“I’m okay because, you know, it’s only material things,” she added. “And you know I feel it, but it’s okay if it could be replaced back.”

Mrs McPhee, a retired

Hope Town Inn Marina supervisor, rebuilt her house about four years ago with the help of her son, who paid for everything.

She said she does not have money to rebuild her house again and is staying with her son in Grand Bahama indefinitely.

Mrs McPhee said she was fond of her house, enjoying its wooden features and green and tan colours.

BLAZE

She called it her “little house on the Prairie”. She also urged people to be careful with portable gas stoves, saying they can be a safety hazard.

MAN ACCUSED OF THREE MURDERS

from page one

Johnson and two accomplices allegedly shot Theo Williams, 29, outside a bar on Hospital Lane on March 24, 2023.

Williams died at Princess Margaret Hospital on May 10, 2023.

Williams was on bail for

SOCIAL WORKERS ‘CRUCIAL’ TO OUR SOCIETY, SAYS SENATOR

TODAY is World Social Work Day, and Opposition Senator Maxine Seymour has hailed the critical role of social workers in The Bahamas, emphasising their important yet challenging position in fostering community and societal change.

She said social workers are fundamental to the peaceful coexistence within the nation, adding that they “are at the forefront of combating crime and addressing social ills by engaging with underserved communities to identify and tackle the root causes such as poverty, inequality, and limited access to education”.

Mrs Seymour outlined several challenges that limit social workers’ ability to effect change, including inadequate compensation, insufficient benefits, challenging working conditions, and overwhelming caseloads, adding that these issues not only affect the well-being of social workers but also their capacity to positively impact the communities they serve.

She noted the struggles of social workers with unmanageable caseloads and a trend of qualified professionals leaving the public sector for better opportunities in the private sector.

Mrs Seymour also stressed the importance of a robust social service workforce in protecting and promoting the welfare of children and families, which she said ultimately helps the country achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

In commemorating World Social Work Day, Mrs Seymour called for an urgent reevaluation of how social workers are supported, advocating for enhanced resources, support, and recognition for their invaluable contribution to The Bahamas.

To advertise in The Tribune, email garthur@ tribunemedia.net

allegedly killing Kendrick Clarke in Culmersville on June 23, 2018. Two of Johnson’s coaccused were previously arraigned in the matter last year. Johnson and an accomplice also allegedly killed Richard Brown and Adrian Brown on Spence

Street while the men were in their yard on July 22, 2023. Johnson was told his matters would be transferred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). His VBI is due for service on June 6.

THE

that destroyed the home of Melva McPhee.

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Famine ‘imminent’ in northern Gaza

FAMINE is “imminent” in northern

Gaza, where 70% of people are experiencing catastrophic hunger, according to a report Monday that warned escalation of the war could push half of Gaza’s total population to the brink of starvation.

The report, by the international community’s authority on determining the severity of hunger crises, came as Israel faces mounting pressure from even its closest allies to streamline the entry of aid into the Gaza Strip and to open more land crossings. Aid groups complain that deliveries by air and sea by the US and other countries are too slow and too small.

The European Union’s top diplomat said the impending famine was “entirely manmade” as “starvation is used as a weapon of war”.

Israeli forces, meanwhile, launched another raid on the Gaza Strip’s largest hospital early Monday, saying Hamas militants had regrouped there and fired on them from inside the Shifa Hospital compound.

Clashes continued all day in and around the hospital, where Palestinian officials say tens of thousands of people have been sheltering.

The Israeli military said troops killed 20 people it identified as Hamas militants, and one of its own soldiers was killed, though the identification of the dead as militants could not be confirmed. Among those killed was a senior commander in Gaza’s Hamas-led police forces who Israel said was hiding in the hospital. Gaza officials said the commander was coordinating protection of aid convoys.

The army last raided Shifa Hospital in November after claiming that Hamas maintained an elaborate command center within and beneath the facility. The military revealed a tunnel leading to some underground rooms, as well as weapons it said were found inside the hospital. But the evidence fell short of the earlier claims, and critics accused the army of recklessly endangering the lives of civilians.

RAFAH OFFENSIVE COULD PUSH

HALF OF GAZA TO STARVATION

The latest findings on hunger in Gaza came from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, an initiative first set up in 2004 during the famine in Somalia that now includes more than a dozen U.N. agencies, aid groups, governments and other bodies to determine the severity of food insecurity.

It says virtually everyone in Gaza is struggling to get enough food, and that around 677,000 people — nearly a third of the population of 2.3 million — are experiencing the highest level of catastrophic hunger. That means they face extreme lack of food and critical levels of acute malnutrition. The figure includes around 210,000 people in the north.

Outright famine is projected to occur in the north anytime between now and May, it said. An area is considered to be in famine when 20% of households have an extreme lack of food, 30% of children suffer from acute malnutrition and at least two adults or four children per every 10,000 people die daily.

The report said the first condition has been fulfilled, and it is “highly likely” the second has as well. The death rate is expected to accelerate and reach famine levels soon, it said.

The report warned that if Israel broadens its offensive to the packed southern city of Rafah, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to do, the fighting could drive over 1 million people — half of Gaza’s population — into catastrophic hunger and potentially cause famine in the south.

“This is the largest number of people facing imminent famine in the world today, and it has only taken five months to occur,” said Matthew Hollingworth, the acting World Food Program country director for the Palestinian territories.

Jamie McGoldrick, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, called for “all roads” to be opened for aid, including into northern and central Gaza. The WFP report said aid from airdrops is “negligible” compared to what is brought on trucks.

Northern Gaza, including Gaza City, was the first target of the invasion, and

entire neighbourhoods have been obliterated. It is now the epicentre of Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe, with many residents reduced to eating animal feed. At least 27 people, mostly children, have died from malnutrition and dehydration in the north, according to the Health Ministry.

A spokesman for the Israeli military body that deals with Palestinian issues, Shimon Freeman, said Israel “places no limit on the amount of aid that can enter the Gaza Strip” and encourages countries to send aid. Israel has accused UN bodies of failing to distribute aid in a timely manner. Aid groups say distribution is impossible in much of Gaza because of hostilities, the difficulty of coordinating with the military and the breakdown of law and order.

Alex de Waal, the executive director of the World Peace Foundation at Tufts University and an expert on global famines, said Israel has had “ample warning” that if it continued to destroy key infrastructure, displace large numbers of people and obstruct aid operations, the results would be catastrophic.

“In failing to change course, it is culpable for these deaths,” he said.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said it was up to Israel to facilitate more aid.

“Israel has to do it. It is not a question of logistics. It is not because the United Nations has not provided enough support,” he said. “Trucks are stopped. People are dying, while the land crossings are artificially closed.”

‘WE’RE TRAPPED INSIDE’

The raid on Shifa Hospital began before dawn, when Israeli forces backed by tanks and artillery surrounded the complex and troops stormed into a number of buildings.

“We’re trapped inside,” said AbdelHady Sayed, who has been sheltering in the facility for months. “They fire at anything moving.”

In the evening, he said tanks were still in the hospital yard, and he could see three bodies outside the gates. “We can’t retrieve the dead,” he said.

Gaza’s Health Ministry said around 30,000 people are sheltering at the hospital, including patients, medical staff and people who have fled their homes seeking safety. The war has displaced around 80% of Gaza’s population.

Rear Adm Daniel Hagari, the chief Israeli military spokesperson, said senior Hamas militants had regrouped in the hospital and were directing attacks from inside.

Among those killed in the raid was Faiq Mabhouh, a senior officer in the Gaza police, which is under Gaza’s Hamas-led government but distinct from the militant group’s armed fighting wing. The Israeli military said he was armed and hiding in Shifa, and that weapons were found in an adjacent room.

The Gaza government said Mabhouh was in charge of protecting aid distribution in the north and coordinating between aid groups and local tribes. Aid groups say Israeli strikes on police are one reason public order has collapsed, leading to desperate Palestinians overwhelming aid trucks on the road.

Hagari said the patients and medical staff could remain in the medical complex and that safe passage was available for civilians who wanted to leave.

Israel accuses Hamas of using hospitals and other civilian facilities to shield its fighters, and the Israeli military has raided several hospitals since the start of the war.

The Gaza Health Ministry said Monday that at least 31,726 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s offensive. The ministry doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants in its count, but it says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

Palestinian militants killed some 1,200 people in Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack into southern Israel that triggered the war, and took another 250 people hostage. Hamas is still believed to be holding about 100 captives, as well as the remains of 30 others, after most of the rest were freed during a cease-fire last year.

By WAFAA SHURAFA, SAMY

The facts about Haiti LETTERS

EDITOR, The Tribune.

HAITI - Status: Republic - Area: 27,750 sq km or (10,714 sq miles). Population: roughly 12,500,000 (est).

Capital: Port-auPrince; Language: French, French Creole.

Religion: Roman Catholic, Protestant, Voodoo; Currency: Gourde; Organisation: UN.

Haiti occupies the western third of that Caribbean island called Hispaniola. A mountainous state, with small coastal plains and central valley it has few natural resources, is overpopulated and relies on exports of the local manufacturers, coffee and remittances from workers abroad. Political unrest has plagued the small island state for centuries. The UN has sanctioned this Republic between 1991-1994, resulting in the economy being hit badly.

Never a dull moment in the world of politics. We have been bombarded with the news of the escalating violence occurring in the Haiti’s capital of Port-auPrince, sending CARICOM scrambling to gather up the support staff to debate the shift.

But as I view it, these matters are resolvable, only that the mediators making up the CARICOM body haven’t got the testicular fortitude, the know-how to bring order to disorder? And when it has so much more in the way of munition, technological global know-how, experiences by comparison to the socalled gangs in Port au Prince, is a crying shame, how come?

Last week on my evening commute, the subject of Haiti came up again, and this old lady on the bus said,

only Russia can handle the Haiti situation, give them a few days, and those people causing problems will be gone, quote end quote. This belief that the solution at this late stage, the solution is for the Haitian people to decide? We have heard that in a General Election, that that position is true, but you know civil disobedience is in play, crime and violence on the scale that we are talking about, can only be quelled, arrested or killed by the right preponderance of a global force, boots on the ground, and intelligence exacted technologies operating in that war arena, is what it is... nothing else will do?

There is a perception that you ought to know the history of one’s country, in order to appreciate how social existence, its ideals were being defended, and sacrifices made, ultimately at that, to avoid pitfalls, but more importantly what might the requirements be, in order to arrive at an intended destination?

And I do not anticipate that the Haitian people are interested in such a history, when each day lived, was a blessing.

In conclusion, matters that were not happening in a vacuum, but years in the making, these political unrests and therefore, none can claim that they were taken by surprise?

I cannot say that the Republic of France was wrong if it had washed its hands of the situation in Haiti, and if it has, I can understand, those people are impossible-to-marshal,

as civilised groups, they behave as if they have no intellect whatsoever, all they understand is violence and more violence... only Father God is able to help them, but they must renounced Voodoo, and then He told me that He would help, not before?

FRANK GILBERT

Nassau, March 13, 2024.

NB: while the government may be inclined that the Commonwealth of The Bahamas has a role to play, in what becomes of the Republic of Haiti, the facts are that to the extent of protecting our borders, is the boundaries of our interests... already The Bahamas has done more for the Haitian people than we were obliged to. How many thousands of them have we taken in? Causing untold strains on our health systems, social existence, competing for jobs with the ordinary Bahamians, et cetera.

But you know, not only the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), is able to cope with the likes of the Republic of Haiti, how much more ought our small country, with its limited resources try?

As for the deployment into Haiti of the 150 marines from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), I call on the powers that be, to scrap the decision to place our brave marines in harm’s way, even where they have no obligation, and a country that is nestled in a completely different geographical location (Caribbean Sea), from The Bahamas’ territory (North Atlantic Ocean) … powerful countries have been reluctant to engage, why should we?

Gangs in Haiti

EDITOR, The Tribune.

MEMBERS of gangs are loyal to their clan and organisation often seen as a family. They will do anything for their family, no matter how brutal, fiendish and horrifying it may be.

The leadership of Haiti, America and the EU knew the gangland organisations in Haiti will attempt a coup, with possible assassinations of Haitian politicians and financial leaders. They knew, and did nothing significant to protect the nation from this nightmare. Why were they hesitant to do what was needed to be done?

NGOs’ political influence, American involvement in all aspects of Haitian rebuilding, policing and security water drowned the Haitian Administration’s determined methods to retake the streets of Haiti. Haiti was told to retreat from its possible military solution to the problem, since it looked as bad as what the gangs were doing. Members of Haiti’s government developed a strategy which if initiated could have clinched the war in Haiti. And it is a war folks.

The average Haitian, their leaders and those trying to rebuild this nation have all been targeted. Chaos runs supreme in the streets with no apparent show of force from the administration for fear of isolating itself from foreign funds and America’s graces. What should be done, and how....

1. Begin from one side of the island and sweep away gangland fighters, arresting or killing them.

2. Assassinate all Gangland Leaders and their political Support Leadership.

3. Find and freeze all the revenues domestically and internationally. Make them National Property.

4. Identify all corporate and political advisors and financial supporters, freezing their funds and arresting them.

5. Make membership to all these gangland organisations illegal, with punishment handed out to members.

6. Emergency powers should be given to Haitian prosecutors, with rapid judgement and sentencing.

A complete wave of enforcement across the nation using Haitian police

and military, as well as foreign troops that should last six months, enough time to weed out troublemakers, jail them and make them pay for the crimes they have committed.

Those found guilty of severe crimes are to be sent to American or foreign prisons, and their incarcerations paid for by Corporate taxation. A peaceful Haiti is a place where business can flourish after all.

Any foreign players like Chinese, Russian, Nigerian intelligence, or various cartels that have assisted the formation and arming these gangs must be put on notice, pursued and prosecuted, with extraordinary measures acceptable and encouraged. Make Haiti an example to all failed nations on how mass criminality, mass murder and national fraud must be dealt with.

Above all else, a nation like Haiti must take all national decisions upon themselves, and find appropriate solutions that affect and benefit Haiti and not foreign or corporate influences.

tandem skydive in Grand Bahama yesterday. Photo: Vandyke Hepburn

Police host breakfast for female officers and staff

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Staff Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE Royal Bahamas Police Force Grand Bahama and Northern Bahamas District hosted an International Women’s Day Breakfast on Monday for female officers and civilian staff. Police in New Providence held a similar event at the Paul Farquharson Headquarters.

Under the theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,’ male police officers served breakfast to their female counterparts at the Albert Miller Fire and Police Station on Cathedral Boulevard.

Allison Levarity, the vice president of channels and customer experience at Cable Bahamas, gave an inspirational address to women, encouraging them to embrace their true selves.

She stressed that women in male-dominated fields face challenges but should not feel inferior to their male counterparts. She encouraged women to strive for their PHD every day by being passionate, hungry, and driven (PHD).

In a live-streamed address, Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe said investing in women is a no-brainer. He noted that women have been making valuable contributions since the first women were recruited to the various law enforcement branches in the Bahamas. “There are two female ACPs and two female executive leaders in the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, and the Deputy Commissioner of Corrections is a woman. And so, women have made their mark in the armed forces,” he said.

ACP Shanta Knowles noted that in November 1964, the RBPF enlisted the first six female police officers. Today, she said women officers, including voluntary police reserves and civilian support staff, have achieved noteworthy accomplishments and milestones with the organisation, demonstrating performance comparable with male counterparts. Police Sergeant Natasha Bodie of Mobile Division, who was among the first to be trained in Grand Bahama, said joining the RBPF provided an avenue for career advancement.

JURY SELECTED FOR POLICE SHOOTING CASE

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A 33-YEAR-OLD man was remanded in custody yesterday after he was accused of molesting a 14-year-old girl in New Providence last Friday.

Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans charged Cashard Smith

with unlawful sexual intercourse. Smith allegedly had unlawful sexual intercourse with an underage girl on March 15.

The defendant was told that his matter would be transferred to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). His VBI is set for service on April 22.

ACP Janet McKenzie during the

in Policing Breakfast at Police Headquarters

DANCE moves during the Women in Policing Breakfast at Police Headquarters yesterday. Photos: Dante Carrer

Vylma, an educator and a leader

Face to Face

By FELICITY DARVILLE

VYLMA ThompsonCurling is an absolutely beautiful, quick-witted, and joyous woman with nine decades of wisdom to share. She has helped to shape her nation into a better place as an educator, administrator, and community leader.

As a mother, Vylma is adored, and her love extends from her naturalborn children to the many that are under her wing.

The people whose lives she has touched remark on her boundless energy, put into a decades-long, stellar career in the Public Service; her strong faith; dedication to community service; and unselfish love as a wife and mother.

In January of this year, a vibrant Vylma celebrated her 90th birthday with family and friends.

in their respective areas today.

By exemplifying professionalism, integrity, and grace, Mrs. ThompsonCurling set an example that other women are still following as the standard of excellence.

“I entered the Public Service in 1988 at the then Ministry of Housing and National Insurance,” said veteran Permanent Secretary Phedra Rahming, currently at the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting.

It was an opportune time for some of her mentees to sing her praises, recalling the tremendous impact she had in shaping their careers.

As an advocate for women in leadership, Mrs Thompson-Curling mentored a number of women - leaders in public serviceall making a major impact

“Mrs Vylma Thompson (now Curling) was the Permanent Secretary. I recall her being a very stern and decisive leader. She made her decisions and stood by them. Though stern, she was also compassionate, empathazing with staff who presented with personal challenges. There were other officers who, after completing university, joined the team at the Ministry of Housing to serve under Mrs Thompson-Curling. They include Secretary to the Cabinet, Mrs Nicole Campbell, Permanent Secretaries

EXEMPLIFYING professionalism and grace, Mrs. Vylma Thompson-Curling has made a national impact as an educator, Permanent Secretary,

Antoinette Thompson and Janice Miller, Isla Garraway-Deane (retired Under Secretary) and Betty MillerKerr (Deputy Permanent Secretary); and Lorraine Symonette-Armbrister (now Permanent Secretary) who later transferred into the Ministry and joined the team.”

The Ministry of Finance’s PS Janice Miller recalls her days with Mrs ThompsonCurling, saying her mentor would affectionately refer to her high flyers as “her little ladies”.

“She was a consumate leader, one who was dignified and always a professional,” Miller said.

“I admired her leadership skills, institutional knowledge, and commitment to excellence,” said Transport PS Donella Bodie.

“My favorite quality in PS Thompson is her dedication to succession planning. She encouraged the young women who entered the public service to excel and commended each one when they succeeded. I will always appreciate her contribution to my career development in the Public Sector.”

Mrs Thompson-Curling taught in the public school system for twenty-five years. She rose to the rank of vice principal and then became an administrstor, working in planning, to make a positive impact on the nation’s public schools. She was promoted to Permanent Secretary in 1980, and thus began the second leg of her career in the Public Service.

Her transformative career as a Permanent Secretary (PS) is lauded.

In transport, she was instrumental in the implementation of several progressive measures, including ship registration, and the acceleration cruise ship activity in Nassau Harbour. She served as PS for the Ministry of Housing and National Insurance, working towards the successful construction of houses for low-income citizens in the Elizabeth Estates and Flamingo Gardens communities.

Mrs Thompson-Curling’s impact in community development is just as wide. To name a few:

• Charter Vice President of the Zonta Club of Nassau. Founding member of both the AIDS Foundation and the PACE Foundation.

• The first president of the UWI Alumni

• The first president of Queen’s College PTA

• Secretary to the Historical Society

• Served for 10 years on the St Andrew’s board

• Served on the National Council for Older Persons

Her favourite quote about life explains a lot about her ability to seemingly do it all: “God has been my strength, my rock, my deliverer and my strong hold. I depend on Him.”

She enjoys worshipping God with her family at Believer’s Gospel Chapel, where she serves as a choir member and Sunday School counsellor.

Family has always been important to her, especially because of the love poured into her as a child. She is the fourth child and only daughter of veteran educators Joseph Hunt

and Minerva Major. She is a proud descendant of the Johnsons and Majors of Harbour Island and the Dean and Francis families in the Berry Islands.

Mrs Thompson-Curling’s faith has brought her through the toughest of times, including the death of her husband, Cecil Curling and her son, Theophilus Ian Thompson. Her children are an endless source of pride and joy: talk show host and consultant Fayne A Thompson; Curzon WF Thompson, an engineer; and Elizabeth E Thompson, and attorney, author and victims advocate actively working in the fight against domestic violence. They are the children with her first husband, Eugene A Thompson. She is also abundantly thankful for her 15 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

For her 90th birthday, her daughter Elizabeth penned:

“In the golden light of ninety years, A mother’s love still shines, sincere. Hearts beat with gratitude’s chime, For the warmth of her embrace, so divine.

Through life’s seasons, she’s been the guide, With wisdom’s touch, she’s stood by their side.

Her laughter echoes through memories bright, In her embrace, they find solace, and light.

Though time may paint her hair with gray, Her love remains a constant ray.

In every wrinkle, a story’s told,

Of love, resilience, and hearts of gold.

So here’s to the matriarch, strong and true,

Whose love has nurtured, like the morning dew.

At ninety years old, she’s a treasure to adore, A beacon of love, forevermore.”

Increased funding needed for UK defence in troubled world

ONE OF the purposes of this column is to draw attention to significant events and developments both in Britain and worldwide and to offer comment which also reflects the views of a range of observers in order to get as comprehensive a picture as possible of what is going on. For well-known reasons – both past and present –Britain plays a significant role in the world, and all the more so since it withdrew from the European Union in 2020 and has no longer been subject to the constraints imposed by membership of that bloc.

So, judging from feedback, there seems to be considerable interest locally in events in what is still regarded by many as the mother country.

A topic that has generated considerable controversy this past week is the nation’s spending on defence. It is generally accepted that an important function of any government is to ensure the security of its citizens; indeed, some consider that the maintenance of law and order in a peaceful society at home, and of its defence against threats from elsewhere in the world, are the prime task of government - and this, of course, requires funding at appropriate levels in order to maintain effective domestic policing and adequate military forces that are deployable as required overseas.

The Peter Young column

By common consent, the threats now facing Britain in an increasingly unstable world are far more serious and unpredictable than any during the Cold War. Fears are being voiced about another potential world war as NATO has expanded, with new members Finland and Sweden on Russia’s doorstep, while Putin has been on course to win another sixyear term as president. Already, in Europe there is the worst war since 1945, the Middle East is in flames and China remains a serious threat to Taiwan. Furthermore, Britain’s Royal Navy and Royal Air Force are in a hot war with Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists in the Red Sea and have launched airstrikes on their bases in Yemen. It

is now being said that not for decades has the world felt so dangerous as other trouble spots are also weakening global stability and the rules-based international order established after the end of the Second World War. In such circumstances, last week’s pre-election Budget by the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, has caused something of a furore domestically. The Budget is a statement - made annually by the Chancellor to MPs in the House of Commons - of the government’s latest plans for the economy, setting out its economic and fiscal policy including changes to taxation and spending.

It is claimed that Tory governments have been reducing the Armed Services in recent years through chronic underfunding and have presided over a deterioration of the UK’s military capability – to the extent that it has now been learnt from a leaked letter from Britain’s Chief of the General Staff that the nation’s army is in danger of becoming merely “a domesticallycentred land force” despite British service personnel currently being active in conflict zones around the world. But what many have found disturbing is that in his Budget speech the Chancellor made only one brief mention of defence, and that was to say in a

single sentence that any increase in such spending is best served by more economic growth. In today’s conditions, critics find that baffling since it is entirely the wrong approach when such spending should have a higher priority - particularly for a Conservative government and when the newly-appointed Defence Secretary has said recently that at the very least Britain needs to be properly prepared militarily for a possible war.

Moreover, it comes in the wake of a warning by a House of Commons spending watchdog of a huge ‘black hole’ in defence expenditure. Currently, such spending is reported to be just over 2 percent of GDP, which meets the NATO minimum requirement, and is due to rise to 2.5 percent when “economic conditions” allow. But that is seen as being so vague as to be almost meaningless. This is not the place to go into much detail, but to the layman the latest figures for military equipment look scary when one learns, for example, that, while Britain is, of course, a nuclear power and its once grand and powerful Royal Navy possesses aircraft carriers, the number of its frigates deployed, as required, around the world is now down to some ten.

All this has prompted a strong reminder by historians that the lesson of the 1930s is clear: a failure to

re-arm in face of autocratic aggression only tempts dictators to be even more aggressive. Furthermore, some find it incomprehensible that the government’s reluctance to boost defence spending comes after foreign secretary David Cameron’s speech at the UN last month in which he equated Russia’s actions in Ukraine with the way Hitler and his cronies behaved by invading a country and hoping the world would look the other way.

To make matters worse, there has, of course, now been a major development in the shape of Vladimir Putin’s landslide victory in last week’s presidential election in Russia. Reportedly, he won 88 per cent of the votes cast in a high turnout of some 76 percent. This has given him a fifth 6-year term and an opportunity to tighten his grip on power as he overtakes Stalin to become Russia’s longest-serving leader. Despite protests at polling stations and elsewhere, this substantial victory will surely embolden him both in war and peace as he will claim that it is evidence of the overwhelming support of Russians for the way he has been running the country and for his so-called special military operation in Ukraine. The latter seems to have reached a stalemate in the east even though Ukraine has been able to mount a series of attacks on Russian territory. But

the West is divided over the provision of more military aid.

This Russian election is seen by most people as a sham because Putin’s win was a foregone conclusion. No credible opposition was allowed by the Russian authorities because any credible opponents who might have mounted a realistic challenge are either in exile, in prison or dead! So the election cannot be considered free or fair. But how interesting it is that the Kremlin wants the world to think that it was so that it can legitimately assert that Russia’s “democracy is the best”.

The outcome of all this is that the West is likely to be confronted by a rejuvenated Putin claiming he has a new mandate from his own people to continue the conflict in Ukraine. He may also now present a greater threat to, for example, the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania as well as to Moldova and even Romania.

When the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer’s failure last week to make any provision for new defence spending sinks in, perhaps the government will have a change of heart. For this will surely not go down well with voters only months away from a general election expected in the autumn – an election which, according to the latest polls, the Tories are likely to lose heavily.

Annual Commonwealth Day celebration

COMMONWEALTH

Day is held on the second Monday in March. It is traditionally followed by a week-long series of events and activities including faith and civic gatherings, debates, school assemblies, flag-raising ceremonies and cultural events. And in London a service of celebration is held at Westminster Abbey. It is well known, of course, that Queen Elizabeth was dedicated to the Commonwealth throughout her life and it was her leadership that played such an important role in creating its unity and the conditions in which it has grown and prospered over the years. Starting off at the beginning of her reign with just eight members, it remains a voluntary association that has grown to 56 countries – not all of which are former British colonies – comprising a total of some 2.6 billion people with an emphasis on youth.

Developing this thriving international body is seen as a unique achievement on her part in ensuring a peaceful post-colonial transition. In the past, she praised what she called “a modern, vibrant and connected Commonwealth that combines a wealth of history and tradition with the great social, cultural and technological advances of our time”.

She used to say that she enjoyed hearing about the relationships built across the diversity of the

Commonwealth family which was a point of connection, cooperation and friendship for people coming together to pursue common goals and the common good. This was always the core message because the Commonwealth is built on shared values, a common language, historic cultural and sporting links – with the Commonwealth Games held every four years – together with democratic values and

the rule of law, which underpin established trade and investment connections within the organisation. Commonwealth member countries also benefit from a varied range of civic bodies and charities helping one another in many different spheres. Furthermore, there is widespread technical cooperation, including scientific and educational exchanges –and it is worth noting that The Bahamas, as a Small

Island Developing State, can benefit from cooperation in relation to climate change.

Before she passed away in 2022, The Queen had, of course, handed over the reins as Head of the Commonwealth to her son Charles. This year, as the King, he was able to record his own message for the Commonwealth Day Service on 11 March which he was unable to attend because of ill health.

In this year’s message, King Charles spoke about the importance of being connected through friendship, shared perspectives and experiences within the Commonwealth family.

Stressing that the greatest strength of this entirely voluntary body was its diversity, he reminded people that the Commonwealth represents a third of humanity, from all regions of the world and that unity was the key to its success. He said that countless people across its member countries have been inspired to form their own Commonwealth Associations, “from lawyers and accountants to business and trade networks, and many more besides”. The work they do, he said, is absolutely vital, “sharing professional knowledge, experience and expertise across the Continents for the betterment of each one of us”.

This was, indeed, an inspiring annual message from the new King; and there will surely now be a

FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS TO BE EXCLUDED FROM UK NEWSPAPER OWNERSHIP

LAST December, I wrote in this column about controversy in the UK concerning foreign ownership of the nation’s newspapers - in particular, the proposed sale of the prestigious right-leaning Daily Telegraph newspaper and Spectator magazine, which support the Conservative Party, to an international group backed financially by the Abu Dhabi ruling royal family. This had caused concern on public interest grounds because of the importance of maintaining editorial independence for these publications. The planned takeover was fiercely opposed by many Conservative MPs, and by peers in the House of Lords, who were worried about this Gulf state’s record on press freedom.

Now, some three months later, there are reports that, in response to growing cross-party pressure to act to stop this deal, the UK government is planning to introduce legislation which would prevent foreign governments from such ownership because this could bring with it an

unacceptable level of influence and control by them. This battle over one of Britain’s most famous newspapers has inevitably widened the debate about the independence of the media and the role of foreign investors in acquiring ownership of politically influential assets. According to the government, this is fundamentally about press freedom – and, as explained by the minister responsible, there is a need to rule out ownership, influence and control over newspapers by foreign states in case they attempt to use such control to push their own agenda. That said, there are also issues like media plurality and the desirability of exposing the public to a range of different opinions, views and information from a variety of sources. So the question is where the line should be drawn in relation to major publications. There are clearly important principles in all this about governments acting in the public interest. So it will be fascinating to watch how this legislation develops. But that will be for another day.

general hope amongst all concerned – in particular the members of the Commonwealth themselves - that he will succeed in building in his own way on the wonderful work and achievements of his mother, The Queen.

Commonwealth Day is held on the second Monday in March. It is traditionally followed by a week-long series of events and activities including faith and civic gatherings, debates, school assemblies, flag-raising ceremonies and cultural events. And in London a service of celebration is held at Westminster Abbey.

It is well known, of course, that Queen Elizabeth was dedicated to the Commonwealth throughout her life and it was her leadership that played such an important role in creating its unity and the conditions in which it has grown and prospered over the years. Starting off at the beginning of her reign with just eight members, it remains a voluntary association that has grown to 56 countries – not all of which are former British colonies – comprising a total of some 2.6 billion people with an emphasis on youth.

Developing this thriving international body is seen as a unique achievement on her part in ensuring a peaceful post-colonial transition. In the past, she praised what she called “a modern, vibrant and connected Commonwealth that combines a wealth of history and tradition with the great social, cultural and technological advances of our time”. She used to say that she enjoyed hearing about the relationships built across the diversity of the Commonwealth family which was a point of connection, cooperation and friendship for people coming together to pursue common goals and the common good.

This was always the core message because the Commonwealth is built on shared values, a common language, historic cultural and sporting links – with the Commonwealth Games held every four years –together with democratic values and the rule of law,

which underpin established trade and investment connections within the organisation. Commonwealth member countries also benefit from a varied range of civic bodies and charities helping one another in many different spheres. Furthermore, there is widespread technical cooperation, including scientific and educational exchanges – and it is worth noting that The Bahamas, as a Small Island Developing State, can benefit from cooperation in relation to climate change.

Before she passed away in 2022, The Queen had, of course, handed over the reins as Head of the Commonwealth to her son Charles. This year, as the King, he was able to record his own message for the Commonwealth Day Service on 11 March which he was unable to attend because of ill health.

In this year’s message, King Charles spoke about the importance of being connected through friendship, shared perspectives and experiences within the Commonwealth family. Stressing that the greatest strength of this entirely voluntary body was its diversity, he reminded people that the Commonwealth represents a third of humanity, from all regions of the world and that unity was the key to its success. He said that countless people across its member countries have been inspired to form their own Commonwealth Associations, “from lawyers and accountants to business and trade networks, and many more besides”. The work they do, he said, is absolutely vital, “sharing professional knowledge, experience and expertise across the Continents for the betterment of each one of us”. This was, indeed, an inspiring annual message from the new King; and there will surely now be a general hope amongst all concerned – in particular the members of the Commonwealth themselves - that he will succeed in building in his own way on the wonderful work and achievements of his mother, The Queen.

MINISTER of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell in London for Commonwealth Day celebrations.

CARIFTA GAMES

KENNY MOXEY JR

OPTS FOR JUST THE OCTATHLON, LEAVES OUT POLE VAULT

The Bahamas stuns Panama in 6-5 win

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

AFTER losing their first two games, the Bahamas team stunned sixth ranked Panama in a dramatic comefrom-behind victory on Monday at the World Baseball Softball Confederation Under-15 Championships in Boca Chica, Dominican Republic. The 20-member team,

Moxey,

team-mate Brenden Vanderpool is the defending champion.

“It feels amazing. I couldn’t wait to show my talent off with everything that I’ve been working on during the off season,” said Moxey, Jr, who posted performances of 11.19 seconds in the 100m, 6.18m in the long jump, 13.40m in the shot put, 50.28 in the 400m, 15.01 in the 110m hurdles, 1.90m in the high jump, 41.87m in the javelin and 5:11.82 in the 1,500m.

“I surpassed my high jump PR of 1.89 last year when I jumped 1.9 and I improved my PR in the shot put by about two metres from last year and my 100 time.”

During the trials for the octathlon, Moxey, Jr, representing the Panthers Track Club, beat out qualifiers Marco Carey of 90 degrees with 4,963 and Todd of Star

PAGE

managed by Avard Hart, pulled off a stunning 6-5 decision in the bottom of the seventh inning on a game winning run producing a hit by the team’s youngest player, Kamdynn Miller. Miller, who is just 12-years-old, drove in Mario Dean, 14, on third with Malique Israel on first.

After the performance, Miller was thrilled to get the Bahamas in the win

column.

“I feel a little excited and I’m proud of myself,” said Miller of his heroic base hit to right field that sealed the deal. “I know I’m the youngest on the team so I have a lot of things to do. I have no words to say.”

The winning pitcher was Crachard Thompson, who was just as elated about the team’s effort.

“I’m feeling good. We did a great job on defence

and offence,” Thompson said. “Thanks to Kamdynn Miller for the walk off hit. We fought like dogs today from start to the end. We kept the same energy and we won it.”

After losing their opener 10-0 to Mexico on Saturday and 9-4 to Brazil on Sunday, head coach Albert Cartwright said it was just a matter of time before the team came around.

INDOOR TRACK ATHLETE OF THE YEAR HONOUR FOR DENISHA CARTWRIGHT

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

DENISHA Cartwright, in completing her final indoor season for Minnesota State University, was named the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II Central Region women’s Indoor Track Athlete of the Year.

The award was bestowed upon Cartwright on Friday by the US Track & Field and Cross-Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) on Friday.

She was joined by Chris Parno, who was named the NCAA Division II Central Region women’s indoor track assistant coach of the year for the Mavericks.

“Being Athlete of the Year was just showing me that all my training and hard work was rewarded,” Cartwright told The Tribune.

“I felt like my indoor season just showed me that great things take time.”

Cartwright, in her senior year at MSU, rewrote the record book during the indoor season, specifically in the 60-metre hurdles. She clocked four of the top-5 marks in NCAA DII history, including the 7.93 chart-topper that she recorded at the 2024 NSIC Indoor Track & Field Championships.

“After missing a few weeks of practice and competition due to a strain I was dealing with, I felt that I still came back strong,” Cartwright continued.

Cartwright racked up points in the postseason, scoring 24.25 points

at the 2024 NCAA DII Indoor Track & Field Championships to be named High Point Scorer with 30 just a few weeks earlier at the NSIC Indoor Championships.

Although she only claimed the 60m title at the NCAA Indoor Championships, Cartwright said she still had a pretty decent season.

“Overall, I think my performances were to the best of my abilities,” she said.

“I don’t think anything went wrong. I executed each race as planned.”

Cartwright, a former volleyball player, is the daughter of former national volleyball player and coach Leslie “Russia” Cartwright and Denise Cartwright, Prior to the NCAA Indoor Championships, Cartwright was named the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Women’s Indoor Track & Field Athlete of the Year.

During the NSIC Championships, Cartwright accumulated a total of 31 points for the NSIC High Point Performer and she won all three events she competed in, breaking the NSIC record in each one.

Cartwright and the Mavericks will begin their outdoor season over the weekend of March 27-30 at the Texas Relays at the Mike A. Myers Stadium and Soccer Field in Austin, Texas.

“My expectations for outdoor is to break more records and keep progressing,” Cartwright summed up. “I’m just ready to see what outdoors holds for me.”

By

BLUE ORCHID ADVERTISING AGENCY

AS HE prepares to come home for the World Athletics Relays, a flood of happy memories wash over 28-year-old Steven Gardiner.

The last time the event was here, his mixed 4x400m relay team won first prize. Steven can already feel the joy of fellow Bahamians who will pack the stands in May, as well as the love of his extended family and his four-year-old Doberman Pincher named Blue.

“I’m everybody’s favourite

SEE

13 DENISHA Cartwright

BRINGING JOY TO THE PEOPLE

FROM

particularly meaningful and unexpected given the turmoil just one month prior, when Category 5 Hurricane Dorian made a direct hit to his family home on Abaco. Thoughts of the devastation and loss of life naturally affected Steven at the time, but he displayed remarkable emotional control, telling reporters: “It was going through my head before the race but not during it as I was focused only on winning the title and bringing some joy to the people.”

His favourite competition so far was the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games. “Tokyo was unforgettable. I did exactly what I wanted. Winning the gold felt amazing!”

But chasing the sun hasn’t been easy. He’s had to overcome many challenges to attain peak performance, like learning how to master his 6-foot-five frame. “I remember when I first started running, it was tough. The biggest thing for me is sleep. I can fall asleep anywhere – even in a crowd,” he said. “When you train this hard, injuries occur. I want to run fast when it matters. It can be intense. But I have matured, and my body has matured. I trust Gary Evans and his program.”

Raised in Paradise

Steven was born on the outskirts of Marsh Harbour, the sleepy heart of Abaco with about 6,000 inhabitants. He’s called the island home for most of his life and sticks close to his roots despite his global success.

Today he lives in Florida, where he trains under American coach Gary Evans, but he returns to Abaco to visit his family about three times per year.

Asked what he misses most about The Bahamas, Steven can’t pinpoint only one thing: “Bahamian food – conch or something… I ask my mom to bring her cooking to Florida,” he says.

“Also, the weather. It’s colder in Florida and the beaches are much better in the Bahamas.”

Steven was naturally athletic as a child, but he didn’t start racing until age 17 – much later than average for his peer group. “For me, it was hard. I didn’t understand the sport. My body was unprepared. Most of my peers have been racing since age six. There was so much I had to catch up on,” he said.

However, he made significant progress during his early 20s, maturing both mentally and physically. “I started to think to myself – ‘I can be great at this,’” he said.

As he grew faster and found his rhythm, Steven relied on guidance from high-caliber Bahamian athletes, like fellow sprinter Shanuae MillerUibo and “Golden Girl” Eldece Clark.

Now that he’s a top sports role model himself, his advice to young, up-and-coming Bahamian athletes chasing their dreams is to “Never give up no matter what people say. People will try to discourage you. Once you get there, the same people who tried to discourage you will be at your feet. It’s up to you the life that you choose and not anybody else.”

Today, Steven looks ahead to the World Relays as another chance to make his country proud. The twotime Olympic medalist is determined to qualify for the Olympics at the event this May and “bring another gold medal home for the country,” he said.

“It’s very special to have the World Relays at home.

“I’m training as much as I can to show my Bahamian pride so everyone can celebrate with joy.”

EQUESTRIAN athlete Kacy Lyn Smith and her horse D’Angelo 6 were flying high this weekend –all the way to the top, finishing as 10th place finalists in the FEI CSI 1* $5,000 Manestream Logistics 1.40m Grand Prix at the Live Oak International competition in Ocala, Florida.

Kacy and “Angel” have been in the spotlight recently with significant victories as they campaign to qualify to represent The Bahamas in the 2024 FEI North American Youth Jumping Championships. No victory however was significant as this most recent, a finalist placing in an international Grand Prix.

Live Oak International is the largest combined driving and show jumping competition in the United States and is one of the eight qualifiers in North America of the FEI Show Jumping World Cup. Over the course of the weekend, approximately 16,000 spectators watched more than 200 horses from 20 different countries, competing in different competitions for over $200,000 in prize money.

Kacy and Angel were one of 30 combinations in the $5,000 Manestream Logistics 1.40m CSI 1* Grand Prix, who braved the testing track of 16 obstacles designed by course designer Olaf Petersen Jr. (GER). Only five competitors - Wilton Porter, Abigail McArdle and Tori Courts of the USA, Dermott Lennon of Ireland, and Olivia Pleijsier of the Netherlands

– jumped clear first rounds. That left the way open for Kacy and Angel, whose final time of 80.09

seconds kept them in the running, even when an unlucky rail falling at jump nine cost them four faults. After an exciting jump off the event was won by the USA’s Abigail McArdle riding I&H Boogy Woogy. Kacy and Angel finished in 10th place, earning a share of the prize money . . . and their first ever international Grand Prix placing.

The Bahamas stuns Panama in 6-5 victory

“It’s awesome to see these guys battling. The first two games, we had the butterflies, but we settled in and we played a good defensive game,” said Cartwright, who is being assisted by Geron Sands, Pedro Dean and Donovan Cox.

The other members of the team are Jordan Archer, Khyale Watkins, Antwon Bain, Javan Smith, Jensynn Albury, Kaizen Dorsett, Nathan Fernander, Thaddeus Russell, Amari Knowles, Pedro Baillou, Aaron Taylor, Caiden Martin, Ryan Wood, Liam Eneas, Tyler Knowles and Sean Forbes. Theodore Sweeting, the secretary

able to compete with my people who I consider my friends. They really helped to push me.”

“I’m glad I had people to push me,” Moxey, Jr, said of the competition. “I’m glad that I have been

At

general of the BBA, heads the delegation to the championship. Also traveling with the team is Martin ‘Pork’ Burrows, who is officiating in the championship. Team Bahamas will play their final two games in Group A against the Dominican Republic today and Argentina on Wednesday for the rights to play in the playoffs.

“I think for us, as the Bahamas, we’re not expected to win any games, so it’s easy for us to come out here and relax,” Cartwright said.

“I think all of the fears are with the other guys.

“We just have to come out and play relax and see what happens.”

FRESHMAN Michael Major pulled off another pair of victories to help Howard men’s tennis secure a 4-2 win over St Joseph’s over the weekend at the SJU Tennis Complex in Philadelphia.

In his singles match, Major Jr won in identical set scores of 6-3, 6-3 over Ernesto Ryu. Major Jr also teamed up with Justin Cadeau as they won their doubles match 7-6 (10-5) over Cadeau and Ottman Bezzaz.

Howard will now play in the MEAC Round Up Tournament in Cary, North Carolina from March 21-23. They currently sport a 3-6 win-0loss record on the season.

KACY Lyn Smith and D’Angelo 6 placed 10th in the $5,000 Manestream Logistics 1.40m CSI 1*

HEAD coach Albert Cartwright giving out some final instructions in the bottom of the seventh inning.

KENNY Moxey Jr is flanked by his mother, father and sister.

WHITE SOX LHP

GARRETT CROCHET

WILL MAKE HIS 1ST CAREER START ON OPENING DAY

By STEVE MEGARGEE AP Sports

THE 49ERS AGREE TO DEAL WITH BACKUP QUARTERBACK JOSHUA DOBBS, AGENT SAYS

NFL By JOSH DUBOW AP Pro Football Writer

SANTA CLARA, Calif.

(AP) — The San Francisco 49ers have agreed to a deal with quarterback Joshua Dobbs to give the team another option at backup behind Brock Purdy. Dobbs’ agent Mike McCartney confirmed that Dobbs will join the 49ers, filling the spot vacated when Sam Darnold signed with Minnesota last week.

San Francisco previously had re-signed third-string quarterback Brandon Allen, giving the team two veteran options behind Purdy.

Dobbs had a well-traveled 2023 season that started when he signed in the offseason to be a backup in Cleveland.

He was traded to Arizona in training camp and started the first eight games of the season as Kyler Murray recovered from knee surgery.

11 overall pick in the 2020 amateur draft out of the University of Tennessee. He missed the 2022 season while he recovered from Tommy John surgery.

For his career, he owns a 3-7 record with a 2.71 ERA and 85 strikeouts in 73 innings. Now he gets to show what he can do as a starter.

“It’s humbling and very gratifying,” Crochet said. “I worked my tail off this spring, had a lot of solid veterans to lean on this camp and was able to put together a good couple of outings. I feel like I earned it. I feel like I’ve kind of been waiting for this moment but didn’t really know if it would come, so to be awarded this, it’s a huge honor.”

TWINS’ DURAN TO MISS

START OF SEASON

The Minnesota Twins will open their AL Central title defense without closer Jhoan Duran, who has a moderate oblique strain. Duran, reliever Caleb Thielbar and starting pitcher Anthony DeSclafani all are expected to open the season on the injured list. Thielbar has a hamstring injury, while DeSclafani is dealing with an elbow issue.

SHOWALTER’S

NEW JOB

Former New York Mets manager Buck Showalter will rejoin MLB Network as an analyst. The network announced Monday that it is bringing back Showalter. Showalter previously worked for MLB Network from 2020-21. He was named NL Manager of the Year after leading the Mets to 101 wins in 2022 but was fired after they slipped to 75-87 last season.

BRAVES OPTION ELDER, YNOA

Bryce Elder, who made the NL All-Star team with the Atlanta Braves last season before struggling late in the year, has been optioned to the minors.

The decisions to option both Elder and Huascar Ynoa signaled that Reynaldo López will be the fifth starter in a rotation that also includes Spencer Strider, Max Fried, Charlie Morton and Chris Sale. The Braves signed López to a $30 million, three-year contract in November. López has made 97 career starts, but only one over the last two seasons when he thrived as a reliever.

RANGERS’ BOCHY

OPTIMISTIC ON SBORZ

Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy says reliever Josh Sborz remains on track to be ready for the season opener. Sborz hasn’t pitched in a spring training game since March 6 because of knee soreness. Sborz, who got the final seven outs for the Rangers in their World Series clincher in Game 5 at Arizona, was set to throw live batting practice Monday.

World Series MVP Corey Seager, who had surgery for a sports hernia in January, faced live pitching Monday for the first time in camp. The shortstop also is fielding and throwing.

When Murray came back, Dobbs was dealt to the Minnesota Vikings, who needed a quarterback after Kirk Cousins went down with a season-ending Achilles injury. Dobbs came off the bench to lead a comeback win over Atlanta just five days after joining the Vikings and started four more games in Minnesota.

Dobbs made 12 starts and appeared in 13 games

in all last season, completing 62.2% of his passes for 2,464 yards, 13 TDs, 10 interceptions and a 79.5 passer rating. He also had 421 yards rushing and six TDs.

Dobbs was originally drafted in the fourth round

SOCCER By STEVE DOUGLAS AP Sports Writer

NOTTINGHAM Forest was deducted four points on Monday for overspending, dropping the team into the Premier League relegation zone with nine games remaining.

Forest was found to have breached the league profitability and sustainability regulations, which typically allow clubs to lose a maximum of 105 million pounds ($133 million) over a three-year period or face sanctions.

Forest’s assessment period ended in 2022-23 and therefore included two seasons when the club was in the second-tier Championship. For that reason, Forest was permitted losses of up to 61 million pounds ($77 million) in its first year back in the Premier League last season and the club went above the threshold by 34.5 million pounds ($44 million), having made an unprecedented 21 offseason signings at a cost of $160 million following promotion.

The team managed by Nuno Espirito Santo fell from 17th to 18th — one of the three relegation places in the league — and onto 21 points.

Luton, on 22 points, climbed out of the relegation zone as a result.

“We (have) got to take it on the chin and just keep moving forward,” Forest goalkeeper Matt Turner said during a news conference at the U.S. training camp in Arlington, Texas.

“Points deduction aside, we’ve been our own worst enemies in a lot of ways this entire season. So we have all of it in our control. Some of the games that we have coming up are teams in and around us, and if we can control those games and get some wins, then hopefully the point deduction shouldn’t really matter.”

The sanction was issued by a three-person independent commission following a hearing this month. Forest didn’t immediately say if the club would appeal against the points penalty. If it did,

by Pittsburgh in 2017.

He has also spent time on rosters in Jacksonville, Cleveland, Detroit and Tennessee during his career.

The 49ers added depth on the offensive line earlier in the day when they signed tackle Brandon Parker to a

one-year deal. Parker was drafted by the Raiders in the third round in 2018 and has made 33 starts and appeared in 59 games in his career. San Francisco also made official several moves that had been reported last

week, including a two-year contract with defensive end Leonard Floyd, and oneyear deals for linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, offensive lineman Jon Feliciano and cornerbacks Chase Lucas and Isaac Yiadom.

the verdict might not be decided before the final round of games in the league on May 19.

That raises the potential for the identity of the relegated teams being known only in the days after the season has finished, which would be hugely controversial.

Forest did, however, release a statement saying it was “extremely disappointed” with the decision to impose the sanction and “raises issues of concern for all aspirant clubs.”

Saying clubs should invest only after they have realized a profit on their player development “destroys mobility in the football pyramid,” Forest said, “and the effect of the decision will be to drastically reduce the room for maneuver for all such clubs, leading to the stagnation of our national game.”

Everton recently had a points deduction — for breaching spending rules in the three-year

assessment period ending 2021-22 by less than 20 million pounds ($25 million) — reduced from an initial 10 to six following an appeal. That set the bar for future sanctions for similar offences, with the commission saying it relied “heavily on the appeal board’s position in the Everton appeal.”

That might indicate, therefore, that Forest would be less likely to get its points reduction trimmed after any appeal. Forest was treated more leniently by the commission after displaying what the panel regarded as “a level of cooperation which is above the level reasonably expected.”

Everton was handed a bigger punishment despite being in breach by a smaller figure, which can be partly attributed to the fact that the commission said Everton provided “incorrect information” to the league as part of the investigation.

Everton, which is also

embroiled in the relegation battle, could receive another points deduction soon for breaching the rules again — this time for the assessment period ending 2022-23.

Much of Forest’s mitigation centered around the club’s attempts to sell one of its top players, Brennan Johnson, after last season finished.

Forest rejected bids from Atletico Madrid and Brentford, according to the commission’s written reasons, on or before the June 30 deadline for any transfers to be included in the figures for profit and sustainability.

Forest ended up selling Johnson to Tottenham in September for up to 47.5 million pounds ($60 million) but by then was in breach of the rules.

“The player transfer market is a highly specialized trading environment that cannot be compared to the sale of normal products and services,” Forest said.

“There will be occasions when a player transfer cannot be completed in the first half of a transfer window and can only be completed at the end of that window.

“This should not be a reason for the condemnation of a club. For this not to be recognised by the commission or the Premier League should be a matter of extreme concern for all fans of our national game.”

In a separate disciplinary case, Manchester City is in a legal fight with the league after the competition accused the English and European champions of about 80 alleged breaches of its financial rules from 2009-18 and 30 more relating to its alleged failure to co-operate with an investigation.

The outcome of City’s case isn’t expected to be known until midway through next season, at the earliest, because of the number of alleged breaches involved.

JOSHUA Dobbs in action for the Minnesota Vikings in December. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)

A gateway to the future

The BTVI Story

AT THE centre of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute’s (BTVI) Grand Bahama campus life is the Student Government Association (SGA), the gateway to a world of championing causes, leadership enhancement and overall positive transformation.

SGA executives were installed in November 2023 with a mission to be a catalyst for change, empower students and ignite a dynamic campus environment. Vice president Teazel Bevans, who is also acting president, said the association is fostering an atmosphere of inclusion.

“SGA is making a positive impact. We engage students and provide valuable experiences. We have succeeded in getting students more involved in campus life. The SGA is the heartbeat of our institution and we are proud to advocate on behalf of our

students,” said Teazel. SGA has participated in several initiatives including BTVI recruitment exercises, held a bake sale and raffle and organised BTVI’s participation in Junior Junkanoo as a Fun Group, which served as a bonding initiative between students and staff.

“We have had our challenges; however, we are committed to the student body. For our first order of business, we supported a student who had a life-altering accident by visiting him and providing a fruit basket. We continue to check in with him and provide ongoing encouragement,” said Teazel. The association is also proposing a basketball tournament, a virtual Christian Movement Club - aimed at uniting Family Island students - and volunteering at the Grand Bahama Children’s Home with the view of incorporating

Students battle it out at the Bee

Over twenty students battled for the top spot at the 27th Annual Bahamas National Spelling Bee competition last weekend.

Aarav Balani, Lyford Cay International School emerged as the winner after successfully spelling the word ‘bromeliad’.

Eckward Ferguson, Central Eleuthera High School

Cosmetology and barbering students who will use their skills for community service.

The SGA team also comprises of secretary Nikita Gaitor; treasurer Alicia Brown and committee members Shavanna Hart, Deondre Bonaby, Gavanique Rolle and Tianna Cartwright. BTVI employees Nadinique Guillory, Yolande Cole and Sherlock

Prince serve as advisers.

Ms Guillory said she gets to see the school through the students’ perspective. “The adviser role is important, particularly as the association is still young. I get to hear what they feel works and some of their grievances. I help them along their educational journey and view talents I would not normally see if I were just

passing them in the hallway,” said Ms Guillory. Mr Prince added that he is motivated by the students’ energy and dedication to serve.

“Since the election of officers there has been a magnetic buzz around the campus that’s drawing others to the association.

There is nothing more important than being able to offer guidance to this

came in second place and Rebecca Barnett, Maurice Moore Primary School, Grand Bahama rounded off the top three. Twenty-four students from around the country competed in this year’s spelling bee. The annual competition is open to public, private and homeschooled students.

Augustine’s College was recently honoured at the Ministry of Education & Technical & Vocational Training’s Annual National Awards Ceremony for the Bahamas Junior Certificate (BJC) and Bahamas Gen eral Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) Exam ination 2023

Alexis successfully passed 10 BJC’s - 9 A’s and 1 C in the 2023 Examinations as a Grade 9 student She also represented Kingsway Academy Elementary in the 2020 Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year Awards Programme.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

DYLAN Blackmon

a 7th grade student at SC McPherson Jr High School received an award for achieving the highest GPA in the school.

Her stellar 3.7 GPA has earned her a spot on the honour roll and the principal’s list.

group of talented future leaders,” he stated.

• “The BTVI Story” is a bi-weekly column which highlights the who, what and why of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), a tertiary institution where individuals ‘Discover the Possibilities’ related to various trades. The column is produced by BTVI’s Office of Public Relations

GET

THE International Game Fish Association (IGFA) Kids Fishing Camp programme will be held this summer.

From July 22-26, 20 kids from North Abaco, Bahamas will have the opportunity to join the IGFA and Friends of the Environment for a week of outdoor exploration and fishing fun.

The camp aims to create the next generation of ethical anglers while connecting kids to nature.

During the camp, children will learn essential skills such as knot tying, species identification, and even reeling in their first catch.

DO you know a student you’d like to nominate to feature in Student Spotlight? Email details to jsimmons@ tribunemedia.net and celebrate our next generation.

BTVI’s Grand Bahama Student Government Association executives and advisors.