STRAY BULLET KILLS INNOCENT GRANDMOM
Mom of six hit while sitting on bed cradling year-old grandson
By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net
TAMIKA Nottage-Cime
was sharing pizza and watching television with her family on Monday night when stray bullets from a street shooting tore through the walls of her Wilton Street home, killing her outright as she cradled her year-old grandson in her arms.
Overcome with grief, her mother Christine Nottage said moments before the shooting, her 48-year-old
daughter came into her bedroom to spend time with her, as the family often gathered there to talk and laugh.
Both women were sitting on the bed, with Ms Nottage at the head and her daughter, a devoted wife and mother-of-six, at the other end. Then, the shooting began.
Ms Nottage said she screamed for her two great-grandchildren to get on the ground. When the gunfire stopped, she
Two accused of using fake passports to obtain voter cards
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter
pbailey@tribunemedia.net
TWO people from the Dominican Republic were accused of having fraudulent Bahamian voter’s cards. Teofilo Antonio Tavarez, 57, and Larny Estefania Tavarez Nova, 33, were each charged with three counts of possession of a forged document, three counts of uttering a forged document, and two counts of fraud by false pretences before Senior Magistrate Kendra Kelly Burrows. Tavarez was assisted by
Pastor Bethel says FNM lottery proposal insults Bahamian voters
By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune News Editor rrolle@tribunemedia.net
PASTOR Lyall Bethel has accused the Free National Movement of defying the will of Bahamian voters with its proposal to introduce a national lottery, calling the move “a slap in the face” to those who rejected such measures in a national referendum.
Two ZNS board members quit over political interference claims
By LEANDRA ROLLE Tribune Chief Reporter lrolle@tribunemedia.net
TWO Broadcasting Corporation of The Bahamas board members have resigned amid claims of political interference after the board’s directive to keep general manager Clint Watson off the job until
after the general election was overridden.
The move is likely to fuel scrutiny over political influence at ZNS, the state broadcaster, given its role during an election period.
Mr Watson, who unsuccessfully sought the PLP’s Southern Shores nomination, was informed in an April 9 letter that the board
Mr Bethel, the previous co-leader of the Save Our Bahamas campaign, said he was “stunned” by the FNM’s position, emphasising that
had decided to extend his time away from work until May 18 — a week after the election — or to another date determined by the board. A letter signed by BCB executive chairman Picewell Forbes, described the arrangement for Mr Watson ZNS GENERAL MANAGER CLINT WATSON
TAMIKA NOTTAGE-CIME
PASTOR LYALL BETHEL
Pintard defends lottery plan; calls Davis 'architect of gimmicks'
By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net
FREE National Move-
ment leader Michael Pintard
used his keynote address at the party’s southern zone rally last night to vigorously defend his proposed national lottery, pushing back against criticism from Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis and positioning the initiative as a structured and accountable revenue stream for national development.
Addressing supporters at Golden Gates Park under the theme “Fire Forward”, Mr Pintard accused the Prime Minister of hypocrisy after dismissing the proposal as a “gimmick”, arguing instead that the plan is rooted in transparency and oversight.
“To label the initiative by something that truly applies to them so they started talking about gimmicks,” Mr Pintard said.
“The prime minister, the chief architect of gimmicks.
They started talking about slash funds and if you look in the dictionary next to slash funds, you will see the picture of the prime minister.
“We went further we said that our proposal includes accountability, independent oversight, so that your money cannot be redirected and misused by politicians.”
Mr Pintard reiterated that the proposed lottery would be operated under strict regulatory controls and supervised by an independent board, ensuring that funds are properly managed and insulated from political interference. He argued that gambling is already a reality in The Bahamas and said the government should instead harness those funds to directly benefit citizens. He has pointed to international examples such as the Dominican Republic, Curaçao, St Martin and Ghana, where similar systems exist, noting that the FNM’s model would allow the lottery to operate
alongside private gaming operators while channelling proceeds into public programmes.
“We believe that the revenue from this lottery can
help a number of persons; a young man who’s working a job but needs an additional assistance in order for them to launch their dreams or expand their business and require additional resources to make it happen. It’s for the student who wants to further their education and needs additional funds alongside the cookouts that mommy and daddy may throw in order to go off to school or first and foremost, go to school here in the Bahamas to further their education.”
“So we’re wondering why would something that is potentially good? For young people, for culture, for the environment. Why would it be so troublesome to this prime minister, and his government since it was them who gave birth to the regularizing of gaming. Why would it be a problem for them all of a sudden to have a national lottery where the bulk of those resources are being administered to the government system.”
Mr Davis, however, on Monday sharply criticised the proposal, questioning both its intent and the examples cited.
“To talk about the National Lottery seems to me a gimmick, trying to grab headlines,” Mr Davis had said. “It just speaks of desperation, and it’s really not for help.”
“For him to use the Dominican Republic as the model for his national lottery, when the National Lottery of the Dominican Republic was proven to be such a failure, with corruption and fraud and the like, that’s the model he’s going to do, you know, one has to question, why is he wanting to have a national lottery?
“Is it for the purpose of a slush fund, for corrupters and fraudsters as the model that he cling onto or embrace has proven to be? It seems to be gimmick, not thought out.”
Despite the criticism, Mr Pintard maintained that the lottery is only one component of a broader economic approach, emphasising that
entrepreneurship remains central to economic growth.
The rally marked the FNM’s second major campaign event and its first in New Providence, taking place with 28 days remaining before the general election. The event drew a moderate but energetic crowd, with supporters dressed in party paraphernalia, waving flags, dancing and chanting as candidates took the stage.
Signature FNM songs, including “Simply the Best”, “So Long Bye Bye” and “Keep the Fire Burning”, played throughout the night, contributing to a festive and high-energy atmosphere.
A slate of candidates addressed the crowd, including Pinewood hopeful Denari Rolle, Golden Gates candidate Michael Foulkes, Garden Hills candidate Rick Fox, Bamboo Town candidate Dr Duane Sands, Carmichael candidate Arinthia Komolafe and South Beach candidate Darren Henfield. Each delivered remarks criticising the Progressive Liberal Party, pointing to what they described as a lack of progress across constituencies.
Deputy leader Shanendon Cartwright, who is contesting the newly created St James constituency, introduced Mr Pintard and briefly addressed concerns related to immigration and government spending.
Mr Pintard made a dramatic entrance, arriving with a police escort and a torch-lit procession as the song “Still Here” by Lyrically Blessed played, before
joining colleagues on stage to deliver the final address of the night.
During his speech, he also addressed issues surrounding national identity and sovereignty, holding up a Bahamian passport as a symbol of national pride and legitimacy.
“For us, it is a symbol of a people from a proud nation and in every country, people value it and the custodians that is the people, the gatekeepers, those that look over and protect our sovereignty, they know to protect this document,” he said.
“It’s a symbol of our birthright, or it is held by persons who were born elsewhere and move here and our job as citizens is to embrace every person who legitimately obtains this. Who legitimately obtains this, they have cast their lot with us, they are our family. So our problem is that no one from no country who have legitimately gotten this we love you, whether you are from Europe or you are brothers and sisters from Haiti, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, any country if you’ve done it the right way, and you hold this, 242 to the world. Our issue is when this and other nationally national identity documents are violated.”
He accused the government of failing to address alleged abuses involving fraudulent documents and of targeting individuals who raise concerns.
“You can be cute, but what you should not be is unethical in your dealings and I’m saying, if you’re not outraged by the frequency with which fraudulent passports, voters cards are being used in this country, if you are not angry about that, then you must be an accomplice in it happening,” he said.
“When you stand up, this government tries to knock you down, but no matter what they say or what we do at the end it on May 12th all of us here will still be standing. So I want to say to this government, we’re going to open the books.”
He also pledged that an FNM administration would conduct a full audit of government finances to determine how public funds have been spent.
The rally concluded with prayer followed by a Junkanoo rush-out, as supporters celebrated and ended the night on a high note.
FNM leader Michael Pintard speaks during a rally at Golden Gates Park last night. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
Woman shot dead while holding baby grandson
realised her daughter had not moved and the grandchild she was holding was splattered with blood.
“I see her still on her face and the baby in her hand,” she recalled, adding she began calling out her daughter’s name and hitting her body for a response.
“When I look at the baby in her hand, that’s when I realised she got hit,” she said. “The baby full of blood and the blood coming from up under her.”
Police said the incident occurred shortly after 10pm. Officers responded to reports of a shooting at a residence on Wilton Street, where they found an unresponsive woman with a gunshot wound to the upper body.
Investigations revealed that an unidentified man, who was chasing another man, fired multiple shots during the pursuit. The bullets entered a nearby home, striking the victim as she sat on her bed.
The suspect fled the area. Emergency medical personnel later confirmed the woman showed no signs of life. The one-year-old child was unharmed.
Ms Nottage, holding back tears, said she has never lost a child before and is praying for peace.
“She don’t bother people, she saved,” she said. “Just how she died quiet, that’s just how she was.”
She said justice must be served.
Mrs Nottage-Cime worked as a janitress at DW Davis School.
Her husband, Fenold Cime, who works on a Family Island, flew into New Providence yesterday
after receiving the news. He said he is still in disbelief.
“Someone tell me she got shoot,” he said yesterday. “I said no, I just talked to my wife.”
The couple had been married for 15 years. Mr Cime described his
MP Jomo Campbell.
wife as the love of his life.
In a statement, Centerville MP Jomo Campbell expressed condolences, noting that the victim had worked on his campaign.
“Tamika was more than a team member; she was family,” he said.
“Her warmth, her spirit, and her presence brought light to everyone around her. We strongly condemn violence on our streets and community, especially violence against women & children. This must never be accepted as normal.
“To the Nottage family, please know that you are in our prayers and in our hearts during this incredibly difficult time. We grieve with you. We stand with you. Let this be a moment for reflection, for unity, and for love.”
Husband of missing US woman speaks out after release
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter
kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
THE husband of a missing American woman who disappeared from their small boat ten days ago said he remains focused on finding her after police released him from custody due to insufficient evidence to bring charges.
Brian Hooker, 59, told NBC News he believes he is being viewed as a suspect in part because of media attention surrounding the case, but said he welcomes the spotlight in hopes it will aid in wife Lynette’s safe return.
According to NBC, Mr Hooker declined to discuss details of the night his wife disappeared or the direction of the investigation,
citing the ongoing police probe. He remains a suspect as the investigation ‘pending further inquiries.’
He described his wife as central to his life, saying they have been together for almost half of his life and that they have not been apart for this long in 25 years. Mr Hooker also said police asked whether he had ever harmed his wife, which he denied.
Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles reportedly told NBC investigators have recovered only a flotation device so far, which remains the sole piece of evidence. She said police remain hopeful Hooker will be found and that search efforts will continue. Previous reports
indicated that a friend of Hooker shared text exchanges from 2024 following a separation between the couple, suggesting tension in the relationship.
Hooker’s daughter, Karli Aylesworth, 28, told NewsNation she planned to travel to The Bahamas as the search continues.
Ms Aylesworth said she spoke with the US Coast Guard, which she claimed provided information to Bahamian authorities about the couple’s relationship, to assist the Royal Bahamas Police Force investigation. She added that US authorities would also be conducting their own inquiries.
She further alleged that the information shared included claims of Mr
Hooker’s “criminal history of possible child abuse and choking out” Hooker, according to NewsNation.
Ms Aylesworth said she has not spoken to Mr Hooker since the night of her mother’s disappearance, when he told her Hooker had fallen overboard. She said she has not responded to his
subsequent attempts to contact her by phone, text, or voicemail.
In a statement, Mr Hooker’s attorney, Terrel Butler, said her client will not participate in further media interviews for now so he can focus on the search.
“Mr Hooker’s primary focus remains the search for his wife of 25 years. He is dedicating his full emotional and physical energy toward coordinating with relevant parties to find her,” the statement said. She said any significant updates would be issued through formal statements and thanked local and international media for their coverage.
SHOT from page one
TAMIKA Nottage-Cime pictured with Centreville
Wife fears cover-up in hit-and-run investigation
By KEILE CAMPBELL Tribune Staff Reporter kcampbell@tribunemedia.net
NEARLY a month after Kareem Williams was killed in a hit-and-run, there has been no update on whether the prison officer who knocked him will face consequences, with his estranged wife saying she has received no word from authorities.
Williams, 29, died days after he was struck on East Bay Street on March 15. A 25-year-old prison officer was arrested in connection with the incident, but later released.
Ramonica Hamilton, 30, said she has not received any meaningful update on the investigation or whether charges will be brought.
She said she plans to travel from Abaco to New Providence on Thursday, ahead of Williams’ Saturday funeral, in hopes of learning more as the case approaches one month.
“I’m going straight there because I haven’t heard anything,” she said. “I heard from one inspector; they’re just making sure all I’s are dotted and T’s are crossed.”
Ms Hamilton said she has seen other matters reach court within a week. She also said she fears the involvement of a prison officer could affect the process and does not want the matter to be “swept under the rug.”
“I’m not worried about myself, but it’s my
children,” Ms Hamilton said. “He has brothers and sisters and family also that’s really broken by this situation.” Williams was the father
of three children — Amber, nine; Sage, who turns eight on April 27; and Caleb, six. Although the couple was separated, Ms Hamilton said he remained devoted
Pastor says voters already rejected a national lottery
attempts stalled amid concerns about social impact and feasibility.
both web shop regulation and a national lottery were rejected by voters in the 2013 referendum.
“To see the opposition wade foolishly and recklessly into this conversation with talk of a national lottery is insulting and a slap in the face to the majority of Bahamians who said NO to BOTH the proliferation of numbers house gambling AND a national lottery,” he wrote in a Letter to the Editor. “THE PEOPLE SAID NO!”
to his children and stayed closely involved in their lives despite living on different islands.
“He loved his kids,” she said. “Always made sure that they were straight, making sure that he can do the best of his ability to deal with them.”
She said the children have struggled with the loss, describing their grief as coming “in waves”.
She added that one of her sons, who has autism, has difficulty understanding the death and sometimes reminds himself that his father has passed when he hears his name.
“This is something that’s new to all of us,” Ms Hamilton said. “Learning something which you can never actually fully comprehend.”
Mr Bethel pointed to referendum results showing 59.56 percent of voters rejected a national lottery and 60.71 percent opposed the regulation and taxation of web shops. He said the FNM had forfeited what he described as a moral distinction with voters opposed to gambling.
“With an opportunity to show the voting public that they respected the wishes of the Bahamian people and the vast majority of churches, the FNM has thrown away that clear advantage and distinction in the minds of the Bahamian voters by this unnecessary action,” he wrote.
The intervention follows FNM leader Michael Pintard’s announcement of plans for a state-run lottery, describing it as a potential revenue stream for national development. The proposal has revived a long-running national debate, with past
Prime Minister Philip Davis has dismissed the proposal as a “gimmick”, while other religious leaders have renewed objections, citing the outcome of the referendum and the social effects of gambling.
Mr Bethel argued that gambling has harmed the country, describing it as “a parasitic pariah on the soul of this country” and warning that expanding it through a national lottery would worsen existing problems.
He also questioned whether proceeds from a lottery would be used as promised, citing concerns about government management of public funds.
“Bahamians are tired of waste, corruption, failed rehashed ideas peddled by one government after the other,” he wrote.
Mr Bethel urged Mr Pintard to reverse course, warning that the proposal could cost political support.
“I urge Mr Pintard to step back from this reckless, foolish decision that will cost you more votes than you think you gained,” he wrote.
He added that the proposal risked alienating church groups and voters who opposed gambling, insisting the referendum result should remain decisive.
“The people said NO to a National Lottery! What part of ‘NO’ is unclear to the FNM?” he wrote.
Former US Ambassador to The Bahamas dies at 86
THE US Embassy in Nassau has paid tribute to former US Ambassador to The Bahamas Arthur Schechter, praising his role in strengthening ties between the two countries and expressing condolences to his family. Schechter died on Monday at 86. In a statement, the embassy said Ambassador Herschel Walker, Julie Walker, and embassy staff said they were deeply saddened by Schechter’s passing and extended their condolences to his wife, Joyce Schechter, his children, Leslie Schechter Karpas and Jennifer Schechter Rosen, and others who worked with him during his career. Schechter served as US Ambassador to The Bahamas from 1998 to 2001,
arriving in New Providence in October 1998 and presenting his credentials to then Governor General Sir Orville Turnquest on October 29, 1998.
The embassy said he served with dedication and distinction, helping to strengthen the longstanding partnership between the United States and The Bahamas.
The embassy said during his tenure, Schechter was credited with advancing cooperation on regional security, economic development, and democratic governance.
The embassy said his work also contributed to deeper collaboration on law enforcement, counter-narcotics efforts, and disaster preparedness.
He was also described as engaged with
the Bahamian community, supporting cultural exchanges and educational initiatives to strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries.
The statement said his commitment to dialogue and mutual respect left a lasting impression on colleagues and partners across The Bahamas.
The embassy said his legacy continues in the relationship between the United States and The Bahamas, adding that his service helped lay the foundation for ongoing cooperation between the two countries.
The embassy said it joins the people of The Bahamas in remembering Schechter’s life and service with gratitude and respect.
Pastor Lyall Bethel
FORMER US Amabassador to The Bahamas Arthur Schechter in his interview by Sam Hashemi at his Houston residence in 2020.
Photo: Sam Hashemi
INSULT from page one
KAREEM WILLIAMS
Two ZNS board members resign after PM overruled their decision on Watson
to stay away from ZNS until after the election as a ‘leave of absence.’
Mr Forbes said the decision was made ‘in the interests of transparency’ and what the board considered the corporation’s best interests in ‘maintaining public confidence in its operations and leadership.’ He said Mr Watson’s salary and contractual benefits would continue.
However, Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis seemingly overruled the board, telling Mr Watson he could return to work
immediately, according to correspondence seen by The Tribune. The PM’s intervention led to the immediate resignation of board members Garth Rolle and Charles Colebrooke.
Mr Rolle said in a
letter, seen by The Tribune , that the five-strong board’s directive to ‘extend his vacation’ was ignored and he was informed that Mr Watson had been asked by Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis to return to work on Monday, April 13.
“It seems obvious to me that we (the board) no longer have the confidence of the government to make decisions in the best interest of the corporation by cutting the legs from under us in such a manner,” Mr Rolle wrote in an April
Two Dominican nationals accused of voter fraud
a Spanish translator during his arraignment.
Prosecutors allege that between April 25 and May 10, 2024, Tavarez and Nova used fake registration certificates and fraudulent immigration letters to obtain Bahamian passports from the Passport Office.
In May 2024, the accused allegedly used their fraudulent passports at the Parliamentary Registry to obtain voter’s cards in their names.
While the defendants
previously pleaded not guilty to the passport fraud charges, they maintained that position at their latest court appearance and also pleaded not guilty to the additional voter fraud charges.
Tavarez and Nova, who both have valid work permits, will continue on their existing $6,000 bail granted last February.
Nova returns to court on April 22, while Tavarez’s next court date is June 10.
Levan Johnson represented the accused, while Sergeant Vernon Pyfrom prosecuted the case.
12 letter.
“In reality, the board no longer have any powers to cover in such an environment and I find this untenable.”
Mr Rolle’s letter came as fellow board member Charles Colebrooke also advised that he would resign with immediate effect, saying he was thankful for the opportunity to serve over the past four plus years.
“I am very proud of our accomplishments and the commitment of the board members during this time,” he wrote in a
letter dated April 14. Mr Forbes, Mr Rolle and Mr Colebrooke declined to comment further yesterday. Mr Watson also declined to comment. Minister of Social Services Information and Broadcasting Myles Laroda confirmed he was aware of the resignations and said he had informed the prime minister.
“That’s where we are right now,” he told The Tribune. “I’ve spoken to both board members, and I don’t have anything further to say to that.”
QUIT
CLIP from the letter by Picewell Forbes, BCB executive chairman
ZNS GENERAL MANAGER CLINT WATSON
The Tribune Limited
NULLIUS ADDICTUS JURARE IN VERBA MAGISTRI
“Being Bound to Swear to The Dogmas of No Master”
LEON E. H. DUPUCH,
Publisher/Editor 1903-1914
SIR ETIENNE DUPUCH, Kt., O.B.E., K.M., K.C.S.G., (Hon.) LL.D., D.Litt .
Publisher/Editor 1919-1972
Contributing Editor 1972-1991
RT HON EILEEN DUPUCH CARRON, C.M.G., M.S., B.A., LL.B.
Publisher/Editor 1972-
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Society must stop hiding killers
TAMIKA Nottage-Cime was doing nothing wrong when she was murdered on Monday.
She was a 48-year-old woman, in her home on Wilton Street, spending time with her family. Her one-year-old grandson was in her arms.
Sometimes, there is a narrative with the murders that take place on our streets that it is mostly bad people killing bad people. Gang-on-gang crime, as if any murder is excusable.
Tamika was not doing anything wrong. She was home with her family. Then bullets ripped through the walls of her home from a shooting outside in the street, and ended Tamika’s life. Her own mother was in the room with her, in the place where the family would often gather to talk and laugh.
Her death is a loss to her family, it is a loss to her community, it is a loss to the DW Davis school community too, where she worked as a janitor.
Tamika did not deserve this. None of those who knew her deserved this loss.
The incident brings back memories of another shooting, of another innocent.
In 2017, Eugene Woodside was eight years old and doing what a boy of his age should be doing, sitting at home doing his homework, when a daytime shooting took place in the Rosebud Street area in Chippingham. A man in his 20s was shot and killed, while a stray bullet from that shooting tore through the wooden wall of Eugene’s home and killed him.
There was outrage in the country after the death of Eugene. If a boy could not be safe in his own home, sitting and doing his homework, then who could possibly be safe?
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and his wife, Patricia, visited Eugene’s family in the wake of the shooting. Mrs Minnis called on all women to wear black for one day that week to mourn for murder victims.
She said: “As a mother, I’m calling upon all mothers because I really believe mothers can stop this.”
Dr Minnis called on the community, saying: “The message we must send to the entire Bahamas is the police cannot fight this alone. Each citizen has a responsibility and whatever information one has we must bring that forward. These criminals live among us.”
Is it a measure of how often murder has taken place in our society that we do not see that same outrage today for the murder of Tamika? There should be. This too could have been any of us, a stray bullet in a country with still far too many shootings.
Centreville MP Jomo Campbell was the politician speaking out this time, saying: “We strongly condemn violence on our streets and community, especially violence against women and children. This must never be accepted as normal.”
Is that true, though? Do we really strongly condemn violence? After all, as Dr Minnis said, these criminals live among us. There are many people in this country who know who these killers are – but they do not report them to the police.
Equally, words are spoken about tackling violence against women and children – and yet when the opportunity was there to bring legislation against gender violence, the gender element was removed, despite the international agreements our country has made to tackle such issues.
At The Tribune, we have also heard increasingly in recent years of how the murders themselves are changing. We have heard people – including former gang members – say how in previous years, killers would not have pulled the trigger on their target if they saw them with their family, with children. That, we are told, has changed, with increasingly brazen, ruthless killers in our society.
The killer of Tamika Nottage-Cime is out on the streets of Nassau today.
The shooting took place when one man was chasing another. The pursuer fired multiple shots – with one of those stray bullets killing Tamika.
Someone may well know who pulled that trigger. Someone may well be sheltering him.
And if not that incident, there are others who are providing people they know are involved in crime with a roof over their head, with food on their table, with a ready alibi for police if needed.
These killers are not to be defended. These are the people who tear down our society and who do not care if they do so. They take the lives of a young student doing his homework, a grandmother with her one-year-old grandson. They take the lives of too many who do not deserve in any way to become the victims of violence. They leave behind families who mourn, who cry, who ask why it had to be their loved one who was a victim.
There should be no hiding place for these criminals. The man who pulled the trigger that killed Tamika? If you think you know who it might be, report him, before he can kill again. Take the gun out of his hand, and put his hands behind bars along with the rest of him.
We have heard this story too many times, and as much as people talk about how unacceptable it is, as a society we do accept it far more than we should.
There should be outrage. There should be anger. And as Tamika’s mother called for, there should be justice.
Not one criminal should rest easy in this country. To make that happen takes all of us. If we refuse to tolerate this in our society, there will be nowhere for these criminals to run. To do that, we must stand together. The right time to do so was long ago – but we can start now.
Lottery not a gimmick
EDITOR, The Tribune.
THE recent statement dismissing the proposed national lottery as a “gimmick” is both misleading and historically inconsistent. The Bahamian people will recall that during the national referendum on gaming, a majority voted against it. Yet the then-PLP administration proceeded to legalise web shop gaming regardless, dismissing the vote as merely “an opinion poll.” The result? A system
that has largely benefited a few operators, while many Bahamians continue to bear the social and economic consequences. To criticise a structured, regulated national lottery—designed to generate revenue for the public good—is contradictory at best.
A properly governed national lottery is not a gamble on the public; it is a policy tool used worldwide to fund education, healthcare, youth development, and national priorities. The
The people already said, ‘NO!’
EDITOR, The Tribune.
THANK you for allowing me space in your valued newspaper to address a recent matter publicised on Sunday past.
I finally got a moment after a busy day to sit down and hear the comments from the Leader of the Opposition, and to read the statements that were issued in one of the local dailies.
To say that I was stunned to read and hear such comments would be a gross understatement. With Bahamians rightly frustrated, and some disgusted with the proliferation of number houses (and the audacity of one party to put forward a known numbers man who broke the law with impunity for years, before former prime minister Perry Christie went against the expressed wishes of the Bahamian people and legalised number house gambling in the country), such a decision is incomprehensible!
To see the Opposition wade foolishly and recklessly into this conversation with talk of a National lottery, is insulting and a slap in the face to the majority of Bahamians who said NO to BOTH the proliferation of Numbers house gambling AND a National lottery.
THE PEOPLE SAID NO!
Let me remind everyone that 60.71 percent of the voting public said NO to the regulation and taxation of web shops and 59.56 percent of voters during the Referendum said NO to a National Lottery.
With an opportunity to show the voting public that they respected the wishes of the Bahamian people and the vast majority of
churches, the FNM has thrown away that clear advantage and distinction in the minds of the Bahamian voters by this unnecessary action.
In March 28, 2026 a writer calling himself Ed Murrow II, gave the reading public a revealing narrative of the PLP’s long history of being financed by the number boys, that somewhat explains their reluctance to cut off this revenue source.
There is no Bahamian of reasonable cognitive ability who does not know how gambling has ravaged this country, from the days of the Hobby Horse race track until now. Even the number houses run ads on the radio admitting that they know how problematic and addictive gambling can be, and they encourage gamblers to gamble responsibly.
Gambling is a parasitic pariah on the soul of this country, not just if the number boys do it, but even as a national lottery as well. Perhaps some of Mr Pintard’s advisors thought it was “clever” to put this forward so that they can tout that they are addressing / removing the issue of a few men being allowed to enrich themselves on gambling, by making it a national issue with the government promoting the gambling instead! So, now the FNM has thrown away their one great advantage for the moral voter who said NO to all forms of gambling. What an idiotic unforced error!
I urge Mr. Pintard to step back from this reckless, foolish decision that will cost you more votes than you think you gained. Be wary of those “counsellors” on your side of the aisle who are only there to enrich themselves at the expense of the financial and mental health of desperate Bahamians.
The people said NO to a National Lottery! What part of “NO” is unclear to the FNM? Disrespecting the Church is not a sensible election strategy!
Also, he talk of how the money would be used to fund education and sports was rejected during the referendum as it is also rejected now! Furthermore, studies showed that our nation’s tiny population is too small to make a National Lottery effective. Bahamians are tired of waste, corruption, failed rehashed ideas peddled by one government after the other. We have seen VAT mismanaged and not used to bring down the National debt as promised, so why would anyone believe that we think that the national lottery money would be used to greater effect?
I believe that most Bahamians are looking for leadership with moral integrity that will govern wisely and listen to the voice of the people. This is not a good start for Mr. Pintard and I encourage him in the strongest terms to reverse course.
Yours sincerely,
PASTOR LYALL BETHEL Co-leader of Save Our Bahamas Campaign. Nassau, Bahamas April 14, 2026
Challenge to church leaders on lottery
EDITOR, The Tribune.
BAHAMAS Christian Council President Bishop Delton Fernander and Bahamas College of Bishops President Bishop Walter Hanchell have both expressed an opposing view to Free National Movement Leader Michael Pintard’s National Lottery proposal. This is understandable. I recall Bishop Hanchell being actively involved with the Vote No camp in the lead-up to the January 28, 2013 Gaming Referendum. Both men are respected men of the cloth within the evangelical Christian community. Hanchell’s humanitarian work within the inner-city communities of Nassau is very impressive. Gambling is not an ideal economic model. The Free market-based economy was largely developed in Protestant Europe under the auspices of the followers of John Calvin.
difference lies in transparency, regulation, and purpose. The real question is not whether gaming exists—it already does. The question is: Will it continue to enrich a few, or will it be structured to benefit the many?
The Bahamas deserves leadership that is prepared to implement solutions— not dismiss them.
TROY E CLARKE Nassau, April 13, 2026.
While there’s no straightforward biblical injunction that says, “ Thou shalt not gamble,” the case can be made that it is, nonetheless, a sin. The sin in gambling is that those who win, especially the Numbers Boys, are profiting off of the losses of gambling addicts. The Golden Rule of Matthew 7:12 says to do unto others as you would have them do to you conflict with the principle of gambling. We are to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. If I love my neighbor, then I wouldn’t seek to gain off of his financial loss. The Numbers Boys have built a massive empire off of the financial losses of thousands of Bahamian gambling addicts. The Numbers Boys will give an account for this fraudulent enterprise on Judgment Day. You cannot be a web shop owner and go to heaven. It is impossible.
That’s why I advise them to live as long as humanly
possible. Because this current life of luxury is the only “heaven” they will ever experience. Having said that, I am very disappointed in the BCC and Bishop Fernander. When it was announced that Island Luck CEO Sebas Bastian was seeking the Progressive Liberal Party nomination for Fort Charlotte, why didn’t the BCC and other prominent clergymen voice concerns about this? Within hours of Pintard’s announcement, these men of the cloth spared no time in issuing press releases. Yet nothing has been stated regarding Bastian’s candidacy. This comes off as selective outrage.
I have stated in the past that I believe that while a National Lottery is also problematic from a biblical standpoint, it is, nonetheless, the lesser of two evils when compared to the Web Shop Gaming industry. At least with the National Lottery the entire nation gets to benefit, including the addicts. With the current regime, the only people benefitting are the six families who control the industry and their small circle of beneficiaries. The BCC, if it is really in opposition to the current industry, should have continued protesting it in public. It can also use its judicial authority within the church by excommunicating those actively involved in web shop and casino gaming. This means denying communion to the Numbers Boys and their families. Those mega churches in Nassau that have tithe paying members employed in the gaming industry should return their financial contributions and disfellowship them if they refuse to leave their gambling jobs. The BCC has many affiliated churches with presumably hundreds of members who are either directly or indirectly employed at Atlantis on Paradise Island and Baha Mar on Cable Beach. Both of
these five-star resorts have casinos.
If Fernander and Hanchell are that radically opposed to the Pintard proposal, then they should both call on every born-again Christian employed at Atlantis and Baha Mar to immediately resign. How far are both men of the cloth willing to go in their declared opposition to gambling? This writer does not believe Christians should be working in casinos. I share the same views on gambling as the late Carlton Francis. I would hope that the BCC has not collected financial contributions from any member employed at Atlantis and Baha Mar. If so, an audit should be carried out with the stated purpose of forking over the proceeds of casino gaming to the members who gave them. This is the kind of genuine repentance we see in the Old Testament Book of Nehemiah when the Jewish men had to divorce their foreign wives and send them packing.
Moreover, the BCC can stop facilitating ecumenical church services for the state, especially during Majority Rule and Independence holidays. Claiming to be opposed to web shop gaming while collaborating with state officials sends mixed messages to the church. Enough with the talk. If the BCC is really serious about gambling, then its opposition needs to be both radical and tangible. This means Bishop Fernander should not be making TV commercials with anyone in this administration. No more state funerals conducted by the church. This is my challenge to be Fernander and Hanchell. How radical are you men of the cloth willing to be?
KEVIN EVANS Freeport, Grand Bahama April 14, 2026.
Gibson’s ex-fiancée testifies she took immunity deal to tell the truth
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
LONG Island MP
Adrian Gibson’s former fiancée told the Supreme Court yesterday that she took full responsibility for her actions as a business partner with him, while maintaining she entered an immunity agreement to tell the truth.
Alexandria Mackey gave the evidence under cross-examination by defence attorney Damian Gomez, KC, during the ongoing trial tied to Water and Sewerage Corporation contracts.
She agreed the charges she faced were serious and carried serious consequences. She also accepted that she was a target of the proceedings and that the seriousness of the allegations influenced her decision to pursue immunity.
Ms Mackey previously entered a plea agreement granting her immunity in exchange for her testimony against Gibson. She said she pursued the agreement after Tanya Demeritte was arrested and returned to The Bahamas, having learned she could be arrested.
She denied a defence
lawyer’s suggestion that former Assistant Commissioner of Police Deleveaux threatened her with deportation or action against her parents.
“I knew I needed to tell the truth,” Ms Mackey said, adding that her immunity depended on telling the truth.
Mr Gomez suggested she
Man accused of indecently assaulting cousin gets bail
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
A MAN accused of indecently assaulting his female cousin at a house in Sunset Park last week was granted bail yesterday. Prosecutors allege the 36-year-old defendant, whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the victim, hugged the 23-year-old woman from behind while his pants were partially down and rubbed his penis against her back on April 10. The defendant pleaded not guilty to indecent assault before Magistrate Abigail Farrington. Bail was set at $6,000 with one or two sureties. He must sign in at the Carmichael Road Police Station on the last Sunday of every month. The accused returns for trial on June 25. Alphonso Lewis represented the accused, while Assistant Superintendent of Police K Bould prosecuted the case.
made the deal to save herself. Ms Mackey said the threat of prison made it important for her to testify, but insisted her decision was based on telling the truth.
The defence challenged her account of corporate records, putting it to her that she was hiding documents relevant to the investigation and fabricating claims about providing documents to Mr Gibson. She denied those suggestions.
Ms Mackey said she told police certain documents were sent to Grand Bahama, though Mr Gomez described that claim as a recent fabrication. After reviewing her record of interview, she acknowledged she did not mention trust documents at that time and could not recall which interview she raised them in.
She said she and Gibson were shareholders in Elite Maintenance and Oak Bay Limited and maintained
she told police who owned the companies. She said Tanya Demeritte was also a shareholder.
Ms Mackey agreed she retained attorney David Cash to represent her and Ms Demeritte and that he negotiated their plea arrangements. She also confirmed her mother paid the $10,000 fine required under Ms Demeritte’s agreement. She accepted she did not register the beneficial owners of the companies and agreed she did not sign bank documents identifying herself as a beneficial owner. She said Jerome Missick and Joan Knowles were listed as beneficial owners in bank records as part of a plan to keep the true owners undisclosed.
Ms Mackey said she received money from Oak Bay Limited but could not recall the amount.
She also said Gibson spoke with director
nominees at the company’s inception to outline their roles, though the defence denied this. She said she discussed directorship with Ms Demeritte and agreed she never heard Gibson give instructions to Joan Knowles.
Ms Mackey acknowledged she and Gibson were in a relationship and said he told her what to do for the companies and that she complied. She agreed she filed company documents and made withdrawals for legal reasons. Gibson, the former executive chairman of the Water and Sewerage Corporation, has been on trial since November 2023 alongside Donaldson Jr, a former general manager, Joan Knowles, Peaches Farquharson, and Jerome Missick over contracts awarded during his tenure. Senior Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson is presiding.
American man fined $5,000 after attacking police at Goodman’s Bay
By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net
AN American was fined $5,000 after admitting to attacking four police officers and resisting arrest at Goodman’s Bay Beach last weekend. Justin Greenfield, also known as “Bobby Bryant”, 32, of New Jersey, resisted arrest by Police Constable 4416 Brown on April 11. During the same incident, Greenfield assaulted PC
Brown, Inspector A Rolle, Police Constable 4534 Adderley, and Police Constable 4729 Jean. Greenfield was also accused of deceiving officers Adderley and Jean and behaving disorderly at Goodman’s Bay and the Cable Beach Police Station. He pleaded guilty to resisting arrest and four counts of assaulting a police officer before Deputy Chief Magistrate Shaka Serville. The remaining charges of disorderly behaviour,
deceit of a public officer, and disorderly behaviour in a police station were withdrawn.
Greenfield expressed remorse for his actions. Under Section 57 of the Police Act (2009), he was ordered to pay a $5,000 fine or face six months in prison. He was also ordered to compensate the officers a combined $2,000 or face a similar six-month prison term. Inspector Cordero Farrington prosecuted the case.
ADRIAN GIBSON
A new generation is reviving the iPod for distraction-free listening
By KELVIN CHAN AP Business Writer
Remember the iPod? It's making a quiet comeback.
Four years after Apple killed offits digitalmusic player,second-hand salesare surging. It's fuelledin part by young people interested not just inits retro looks buta desire tolisten tomusic ina focusedway andwithplaylists not determined by algorithms. There s agrowing trend, particularly amongst younger users,tomitigatetheeasewith which they can be distracted by smartphones, often driven bymental healthandwellbeing concerns, said Ben Wood,chief analystatCCS Insight. Havinga dedicated music device, such as an iPod, isagood waytoreduceyour dependence on a smartphone and avoid being drawn into other activities, like doom scrolling through social media feeds, whenyou onlyreally want to listen to music.”
Ifyou're interestedin joiningthe iPodrevival,here are some pointers:
How to get an iPod
You can'tbuy anew iPod anymore but it's not too hard toget yourhandson aused one.Thereare stillalotof themaround becauseApple sold450 millionovertwo decades.
There'sa thrivingsecondhand market,as evidencedby thousands of listings for used iPods on eBay. “Based on my discussions withpeople inthe market, there has definitely beenrenewedinterestinrefurbished iPods, said Wood.
But watch out, because eBay, strangely, also has thousands of listings for new iPods.On closerinspection, they're from China-based sellersand somebuyershave left feedback complaining theyreceived aused orrefur-
bished device in counterfeit packaging.
Facebook Marketplace, peer-to-peer resellingsite Mercari and refurbished electronicsplatform BackMarket also have plenty of listings. Back Market, which operates inthe U.S.,Japan andmore thana dozenEuropeancountries, said iPod sales last year jumped 48% from 2024. Thereare alsobusinesses dedicated to selling refurbished iPods.
And there s achance someone youknow hasone gathering dust in a drawer somewhere. My 16-year-old daughter recentlydiscovered her grandmother's silver iPod Nano,complete withoriginal charging cable and white earphones, in a guest room nightstand during a recent visit. For support,there s avibrant onlinecommunity of users swapping tips and sharing picturesof theirdevices,many withaftermarket modifications like faceplates in non-original colours.
Which iPod is it?
There's notjust onesingle style of iPod.
The original iPod, released in 2001, camewith a scroll wheel thatbecame adesign signature. When the sixth generationwas released,Apple started calling it the Classic. It was followedby the smaller Mini and Nano versions, and the Shuffle, which hadnoscreen. Thencamethe Touch, which hada glass touchscreenandranoniOSto support mobile apps basically an iPhonewithout the phone.
If you're notsure which model youhave, check Apple's identification page.
Bringing it back to life
Soyou've foundgrandma's oldiPod,but doesitwork?
Thebattery couldbe deadso you willneed acharging cable.
Later generationsof the iPodTouch usedApple's Lightningcable butallother models require a 30-pin chargingcable, whichhasa distinctive wide, flat plug. Apple doesn't make these anymore but replacements are available fromaftermarket manufacturers.
If charging doesn't revive it, the batterymight needreplacing. Ormaybe there's something else wrong,like a broken earphone jack or a damaged display. Apple still repairs iPods,but onlyfor the two finalgenerations ofthe Touch.
You can send itto a repair serviceor fixit yourselfif you'refeeling handy.Repair website iFixithas detailed step-by-steprepair guidesfor replacing various components. You'llneed tosource spare parts yourself.
IPodTouch ownersshould bewareof softwarelimitations.The mostrecentversion ofApple's operatingsystem that willwork onthe seventh generation iPodTouch the last version eversold is iOS15, andpreviousmodels are limited toeven older versions.
Thisisnot anissuewith other iPod variants because they don't run iOS.
Adding music Grandma's silver iPod Nano appeared to beworking fine, but I decided tostart fresh by doingafactory resettowipe the audio files left on it and restore the original settings. You'll needa computer,either aMac orWindows,to dothis. Apple has a page that outlines the steps.
ThoseofyouwithWindows computerscan useApple's iTunes program to manage
youriPodand syncupyour song library. Toadd digital musicfiles fromyourcomputer, drag the files into iTunes and dropthem in the iPod'smusic library.To adda song that you've bought previously in iTunes, download it firstto yourcomputer,right clickon itandselect Add to Device."
Apple discontinuediTunes for MacOSin 2019so Mac computer users will have to use Apple Music, but it's an equally easy processof dragging and dropping files.
Take note,Apple Music subscribers:you shouldbe able tostream musicon later generations of the iPod Touch. But for everyother type of iPod,you'llonly beableto addand listento musicfiles ripped from a CD or purchased from a digital music platform.
Upgrading the software MostiPods areprettybasic, in part because they're limited by thedevice's onboard firmware.
Butpartof theiPod’s appealisthatit seasyforhobbyiststotinker withthem,said Wood.
“There is definitely a movement of people looking to take iPods andmodify themfor modern use,” he said.
One popular hack is replacingthe iPod'sfirmware with open-sourcesoftware such as RockBox, which can be used to upgrade an iPod to offer greater control and add features that Apple had not includedordid notexistatthe time, Wood said.
This includes support for high-resolution lossless music files, theability tomanage music without iTunes, and tracking what you'vebeen listeningto soyou canupload your playlistto aplatform such as Last.fm, Wood said.
Policearrest asuspectina Molotovattackat
OpenAI CEO's San Francisco home
By REBECCA BOONE and KAITLYN HUAMANI Associated Press
LOS ANGELES(AP) Of-
ficersarrested a20-year-old mansuspected ofthrowinga
Molotov cocktail at OpenAI
CEO Sam Altman’s San Francisco home on Friday and then making threats at the company’s headquarters, policeand the company said.
Officerswent tothehome shortlyafter4a.m.because someonehadthrownanincendiarydevice,settinganexteriorgatealightbeforefleeingon foot, police said.
Less than anhour later, authorities were calledto a business elsewhere inthe city where aman had reportedly threatenedtoburndown thebuilding.Officersrecognized the manas the same suspectand detained him,the police department posted on social media.
OpenAI,the creatorof ChatGPT,released astatement confirming that thehome belongs to Altmanand that the threats were made at its headquarters.
Greece moves to protectminors from social media with new ban for kids under 15
By MENELAOS HADJICOSTIS Associated Press
ATHENS, Greece (AP) Greece became the latest European Union country to unveilplans for a total social media banfor kids 15 andunder in a movethe country s primeministersaidaims topressurethe27-memberbloc into formalizing EU-wide age restrictions.
The new law will target social media platforms that enable theuser tocreate profiles,interact withothers and share content, such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Once the legislation isenacted, social media platforms will be responsible for reverifying the ages of all users in the country to exclude those who are 15 years or under. Authoritiessay thestate srole willbelimitedto ensuringthat social media platformscomply with the newlaw and will take action in case of any reported violations.
Violations will be reported tothe authorities of the countryinwhichthesocialmediaplatformisbasedortothe EU’s executive arm. Penalties include fines of up to 6% of a company sglobalturnover,daily finesuntilcomplianceor restrictions on operations.
Tesla leader believesShanghai factory operations will play a role in robot mass production
By ANDY WONG and KANIS LEUNG Associated Press
SHANGHAI (AP) A Tesla Inc.leader saidTuesday he believes its Shanghai factory operations willhelp resolve thechallenges in achievingmass productionof the company's humanoid robotsasthe U.S.electricvehicle giant pivots to robotics.
Wang Hao, Tesla's vice president,said theShanghaifacilities, like other Tesla factories, will contribute after the company enters an era of robots.
Wang,whoalsoservesas presidentofTeslaChina,told reporters ona government-organizedtour ofone ofits Shanghaifactories thatCEO ElonMuskonce notedhaving production atscale is acritical challengein manufacturing humanoid robots.
Musk hasurged investorsto focus lesson carsales and more on what he considers a bright artificial intelligence futureofrobotaxisferryingmillionsincarswithoutdrivers,or even steering wheels, and robots watering plants and taking care of elderly parents.
Kara Swisher examines the science, tech and business of living longer in new CNN docuseries
By
MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer
NEW YORK (AP) Journalist Kara Swisher begins her new, six-part CNNseries about longevity andhealth in an interesting location a cemetery.
It's thefinal restingplace ofher father,who diedin 1968 at just 34. Swisher was only 5, and his sudden death had a deep effect on her career and view of life.
“My father’s death has created an awareness of death that is very profound, she says in an interview. I m very aware of mydeath andI don’tmean I’mgoing todie tomorrow.I just know the time is limited.
Swisher wades into the intersection of how health and tech can lengthen life for the series Kara Swisher Wants to Live Forever,” exploring everything fromwellness influencerslike GwynethPaltrow toAI-powered roboticcompanions for the elderly. It premiered Saturday.
An iPod is displayed after its introduction by Apple CEO Steve Jobs during a news conference, Oct. 23, 2001, in Cupertino, Calif. AP Photo/Julie Jacobson, File
Lebanon and Israel hold first direct diplomatic talks in decades in Washington
By KAREEM CHEHAYEB and MATTHEW LEE Associated Press
LEBANON and Israel
held their first direct diplomatic talks in decades on Tuesday in Washington following more than a month of war between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling it a "historic opportunity" but making clear that no breakthrough agreement would happen right away.
In a statement after the two-hour session ended, the State Department praised the two sides for what it called "productive discussions on steps toward launching direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon." Hezbollah opposed the direct talks and was not represented, appearing to step up its fire on northern Israel as the discussions began.
"The United States affirmed that any agreement to cease hostilities must be reached between the two governments, brokered by the United States, and not through any separate track," the State Department said. Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter hailed what he called a convergence of opinion about removing Hezbollah's influence from Lebanon, saying he was encouraged by a "wonderful exchange."
"The Lebanese government made it very clear
JURY SELECTION
By JENNIFER PELTZ Associated Press
AFTER years of #MeToo infamy, legal peril and prison, Harvey Weinstein is again going on trial on a rape charge in New York City. Jury selection started Tuesday in the onetime movie mogul's latest retrial, where jurors will weigh — for the third time — whether he raped hairstylist and Jessica Mann in a Manhattan hotel in 2013. It's a more streamlined proceeding than the array of allegations that were aired at Weinstein's previous trials in New York and Los Angeles. The Oscar-winning producer denies all the
that they will no longer be occupied by Hezbollah," he said. "Iran has been weakened. Hezbollah is dramatically weakened. This is an opportunity."
Lebanese Ambassador to the US Nada Hamadeh Moawad "reaffirmed the urgent need" for an end to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, "underscoring the principles of territorial integrity and full state sovereignty." She also called for a ceasefire, the return of displaced people to their homes, and "concrete measures to address and alleviate the severe humanitarian crisis" resulting from the conflict.
Despite Hezbollah's outright rejection, the talks are a major step for two countries with no diplomatic relations that have been officially at war since Israel's inception in 1948. The latest round of fighting was sparked by Hezbollah firing rockets into northern Israel on March 2, days after the United States and Israel attacked Iran, Hezbollah's key ally and patron.
Hezbollah pushes back as Lebanese government hopes for end to war
As the talks began, Rubio said the Trump administration was "very happy" to facilitate but noted that "we understand we're working against decades of history and complexities" that will not be quickly resolved.
"But we can begin to move forward with a
framework where something can happen — something very positive, something very permanent — so that the people of Lebanon can have the kind of future they deserve, and so that the people of Israel can live without fear," Rubio said.
The Lebanese government hopes the talks will help pave the way to an end to the war. While Iran has set ending the wars in Lebanon and the region as a condition for talks with the US, Lebanon insists on representing itself.
Hezbollah and other critics say Lebanon's government lacks leverage and that it should back Iran's position. Wafiq Safa, a high-ranking member of the militant group's political council, told The Associated Press that the group will not abide by any agreements made during the talks.
On the day of the discussions, incoming fire triggered nonstop drone and rocket alert sirens in Israeli communities near the Lebanese border. Hezbollah, so far on Tuesday, has claimed 24 attacks on northern Israel and on Israeli troops in southern Lebanon.
At least 2,124 people have been killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon, the Health Ministry said, including hundreds of women and children. More than 1 million people are displaced. The deadliest day of the war took place last week, when Israel launched 100 airstrikes across Lebanon in 10 minutes, including in the heart of the capital, killing over 350 people.
The Israeli military has invaded southern Lebanon, a move some Israeli officials have said aims to create a "security zone" from the
STARTS FOR HARVEY WEINSTEIN'S
accusations and declared in court this winter that he had "acted wrongly, but I never assaulted anyone." Still, the retrial is expected to last up to six weeks. Questioned about the length of the proceeding and whether they could be fair and impartial about the much-publicized case, more than 80 people asked to be excused during initial screening Tuesday morning. The day ended with no jurors chosen. The process is scheduled to resume Wednesday with prospective jurors being questioned individually in private about their knowledge of the case and Weinstein. Wider-ranging questioning in court should
follow eventually.
A surprise move from prosecutors
In a surprise move before jury selection began, prosecutors said they had a new piece of evidence — a remark that Weinstein allegedly made to a court officer six years ago.
According to Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Candace White, the officer told prosecutors last week that he was present during Weinstein's February 2020 sexual assault conviction — which was later overturned — and heard Weinstein say: "If you had seen these girls, you would have done the exact same thing."
Weinstein's lawyers urged Judge Curtis Farber to keep
border to the Litani River, some 30 kilometres (20 miles) to the north.
Israel's defence minister says hundreds of thousands of people uprooted from southern Lebanon will not be allowed to return home until the area is demilitarized and Israel believes its northern communities are safe. Hezbollah, though weakened in its last war with Israel that ended in November 2024, still fires drones, rockets and artillery daily into northern Israel and on ground troops inside Lebanon.
Hezbollah enjoys wide influence in Beirut's southern suburbs, as well as large swaths of the country's southern and eastern provinces. Hezbollah-allied politicians hold two Cabinet minister positions, though the group's ties have soured with Lebanon's top political authorities, who have been critical of Hezbollah's decision to enter the war last month and who have since criminalized the group's military activities in the country.
First Israel-Lebanon talks in more than 30 years
The talks are the first between Israel and Lebanon since 1993. Both countries have relied on indirect communication, often brokered by the United States or UNIFIL, the United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon.
Lebanon's top political authorities, critical of
Hezbollah's decision to fire rockets toward Israel on March 2 in solidarity with Iran, quickly proposed direct talks in a bid to stop the escalation, hoping that Israel would not launch its ground invasion.
Israel did not respond positively until last week, after its deadly bombardment hit several crowded commercial and residential areas in Beirut, sparking an international outcry and triggering threats by Iran that it would end the ceasefire with the United States and Israel.
Lebanese officials have pushed for a truce, which Israel has ruled out. Israel has, however, halted strikes on Lebanon's capital following the bombardment.
"Israel's destruction of Lebanese territories is not the solution, nor will it yield any results," Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Monday. He came to power vowing to disarm non-state groups, including Hezbollah. "Diplomatic solutions have consistently proven to be the most effective means of resolving armed conflicts globally."
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Tuesday denied having disputes with Lebanon and said, "The problem is Hezbollah." Hezbollah wants a return to the 2024 agreement under which talks were conducted indirectly with the US, France and UNIFIL as mediators.
LATEST RETRIAL IN A NEW YORK RAPE CASE
any mention of the supposed remark out of the upcoming retrial.
"This sounds far-fetched," defence attorney Marc Agnifilo said, also arguing that it emerged too late.
A subject that was explored in prior trials — a claims fund for women who said Weinstein sexually mistreated them — likely won't come up again. The defence team doesn't intend to raise the subject, Farber said.
A new defence team Agnifilo and his partners took on the case in February, when longtime Weinstein lawyer Arthur Aidala stepped aside from the retrial to focus on the former studio boss' appeals and civil matters.
Both Aidala and Agnifilo are well-known New York defence attorneys, but their litigation styles differ. Aidala is folksy, while Agnifilo is more buttoned-up. Weinstein wielded significant clout in the entertainment industry, having built his reputation on such critical and popular hits as "Shakespeare in Love," "Pulp Fiction" and "Chocolat." He also became a prominent Democratic donor. Then a series of sexual harassment and sex assault allegations against Weinstein began to emerge in news media in 2017, propelling the #MeToo movement. He was criminally charged in New York in 2018 and in Los Angeles two years later.
A tangled series of trials Weinstein went to trial and was convicted of some — but not all — counts in both cases. His initial New York convictions were overturned, spurring a retrial last year. The retrial verdict was mixed: Weinstein was convicted of forcing oral sex on production assistant and producer Miriam Haley in 2006, but he was acquitted of forcibly performing oral sex on model-turned-psychotherapist Kaja Sokola. The jury didn't decide on the rape charge involving Mann because the foreperson refused to keep deliberating.
Mann has testified that she had a consensual, on-and-off relationship with the then-married Weinstein. But when he cornered her in a Manhattan hotel room
where she was staying on a weekend getaway, she protested, "I don't want to do this," she told jurors. She said he kept making advances and demands until she "just gave up."
Weinstein hasn't testified at any of his trials. His lawyers have contended that he never had non-consensual sex.
At his trials to date, the defence claimed that his accusers accepted his sexual overtures because they wanted his help in show business. The women said Weinstein d Lebanon and Israel hold first direct diplomatic talks in decades in Washington angled his Hollywood influence to attract and victimize them.
He's appealing the Los Angeles verdict and is expected to appeal the New York conviction involving Haley. It carries the potential for up to 25 years in prison; no sentencing date has been set.
In this case, the rape charge is a lower-level felony punishable by up to four years behind bars. Weinstein, 73, already has served longer than that. Weinstein has various health problems and uses a wheelchair. He told the judge in January that his "mental state is collapsing" in New York's notorious Rikers Island jail. The Associated Press generally does not identify people without their permission if they say they have been sexually assaulted. Haley, Mann and Sokola agreed to be named.
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ISRAELI bulldozers demolish homes in southern Lebanon, as seen from northern Israel, Sunday, April 12, 2026. Photo: Ariel Schalit/AP
Kailin Hanna seeks to inspire youth through S.M.I.L.E speech competition
By Jeffarah Gibson Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
A GROWING youth initiative aimed at strengthening public speaking and promoting responsible online behaviour is once again taking centre stage this month, as the S.M.I.L.E. Foundation prepares to host its second annual “Smile to Speak” Speech Competition.
Founded by former Miss Bahamas Teen Kailin Hanna, the competition is rooted in her platform
S.M.I.L.E., which stands for Social Media Integrity and Lifelong Etiquette. What began as a pageant platform in 2024 has since evolved into a wider movement focused on empowering young people to use their voices with purpose.
“The Smile to Speak Speech Competition was inspired by my platform, S.M.I.L.E., which I developed while competing for the Miss Bahamas Teen title,” Hanna explained. “It really started as a way to encourage young people to use social media responsibly, respectfully, and honestly. Since then, I’ve remained committed to growing this initiative into something that can make a real impact. Hosting this competition again is one of the ways I’ve been able to do that.”
Now in its second year, the event is being held during April in recognition of Autism Awareness Month, with all proceeds going toward the REACH organisation to support its advocacy efforts.
While last year’s competition focused on senior high school students, this year marks a notable expansion. Hanna, now a college student herself, has opened participation to college students and doubled the grand prize to $1,000.
“As this past year marked my first year of college, I really wanted to expand the competition to include college students and make it even more engaging.
“The goal has always been
to promote youth empowerment and strengthen public speaking skills, but I also wanted it to feel inspiring and rewarding.
Increasing the prize fund was just one way to reflect that growth and encourage participation.”
Participants will tackle timely and thought provoking topics, including freedom of speech and responsibility online, cancel culture, and the impact of social media on authentic communication. Judges will assess speeches based on content, delivery, originality, and relevance to the theme.
“Judges will be looking for strong organisation, creativity, and how well contestants connect their ideas to the topic,” Hanna noted.
“But more than anything, it’s about how they express themselves and the confidence they bring to the stage. These topics allow them to share real perspectives on issues that are shaping their everyday lives. It creates space for honest and meaningful conversations.”
Beyond the competition itself, the initiative reflects Hanna’s continued commitment to youth development, a passion she has carried forward since her pageant days, including placing second in the Miss Teen Mundial pageant in 2024.
“Holding the Miss Bahamas Teen title was a meaningful stepping stone for me. It gave me the foundation to build something greater through the S.M.I.L.E. Foundation.
Since then, I’ve stayed involved in youth programmes and volunteer initiatives because I truly believe in creating spaces where young people feel encouraged to lead and speak. I also use our Instagram platform to share information and reach a wider audience.”
Balancing her work with her studies as a full time college student pursuing a career in dentistry, Hanna remains actively involved in community initiatives. She
volunteers as a youth leader in an after school church programme and serves as a camp counsellor during the summer months.
“My passion for youth focused work really comes from seeing the difference that guidance and opportunity can make,” she said.
“When young people are given a chance to express themselves, it builds confidence in ways that last. Through the S.M.I.L.E. Foundation, I’ve seen how impactful these spaces can be. It reminds me why the work is so important.”
Among the initiatives that have shaped her journey are programmes such as Rock the Crown, a summer experience focused on confidence, etiquette, and pageantry, as well as Camp Bahamas, where she has served as a counsellor.
“Rock the Crown has been one of the most impactful programmes I’ve been part of because you really get to see growth in such a short time. With Camp Bahamas, it was a different kind of experience, centred around faith and mentorship. Being able to guide young girls and see how it influences their confidence and outlook was incredibly rewarding. Those experiences continue to shape how I approach my work today.”
For Hanna, the speech competition is more than just an event. It is a reflection of her broader mission to inspire young people across The Bahamas to step into their voices and advocate for change.
“I want this competition to encourage young people to become advocates for the causes they believe in. You are never too young to be passionate about an issue or to make a difference in your country. At the same time, I want to promote digital positivity, showing that social media can be a space for up-liftment and impact when it’s used the right way.”
‘My passion for youth focused work really comes from seeing the difference that guidance and opportunity can make’
As anticipation builds for this year’s competition, the message at the heart of S.M.I.L.E. remains clear.
ment
Empower-
begins with a voice, and for many young participants, this stage may be where that voice truly begins to take shape.
KAILIN Hanna donates proceeds from last year’s competition to REACH Bahamas. From left to right: Speech therapist Nafeesa Arafat, middle Kailin Hanna, and Dwayne Gibson, Chairman of REACH.
KAILIN HANNA
KAILIN HANNA
Youth For Progress Fair PLP Youth For Progress Fair
PLP
PRIME MINISTER Philip ‘Brave’ Davis and other Ministers from the PLP meet with University of the Bahamas students at their Youth For Progress Fair yesterday.
Photo: Nikia Charlton