06162020 BUSINESS, WOMAN AND HEALTH

business@tribunemedia.net

TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2020

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JOHN ROLLE

Central Bank chief: Fiscal ‘discipline’ key after COVID

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net THE Central Bank’s governor yesterday warned that the government must reimpose fiscal discipline once the COVID-19 crisis has passed so it can continue to access the debt markets.

John Rolle, during a webinar hosted by the Ministry of Finance, said the government’s ability to borrow during the pandemic was critical to shielding the Bahamian economy and society from the worst effects of the pandemic’s economic fall-out. However, he warned that such fiscal headroom needed to rapidly be rebuilt once the COVID19 situation has eased.

“We must have discipline in ordinary times so that people would feel comfortable with extending the country credit,” Mr Rolle said, adding that the government’s ability to raise financing is based on “a belief that this country can repay this debt”.

K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister, said spending discipline was vital despite the $1.3bn fiscal deficit that the government plans to run during the 2020-2021 budget year. “We have to make sure that we maintain our expenditure profile so that when we do invest on the capital side we’re investing in projects that are going to bring some economic stimulus to the overall position, drive up our tax revenue, support our tax base as well as provide opportunities for individuals for them to be able to meet their needs,” he added.

“In addition to that, a key component is that we have to grow this economy and, even in this weakened position, we have to find ways to provide stimulus for growth.” Mr Turnquest said that part of the government’s stimulus effort is its investment in the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) and “entrepreneurial spirit” of Bahamians.

Mr Rolle also differentiated between the national debt and the central

SEE PAGE 5

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Ministers to rescue on tourism’s ‘rocky start’

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

M

INISTERIAL intervention yesterday overcame “a rocky start” to the tourism industry’s re-opening after Bahamas Customs failed to appear at multiple marinas to clear incoming boats and yachts Peter Maury, the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) president, told Tribune Business he was forced to contact both K Peter Turnquest, deputy prime minister, and Dionisio D’Aguilar, minster of tourism and aviation, to resolve a situation that could have marred tourism’s first day of business following its three-month COVID-19 lockdown.

“As usual it’s had a bit of a rocky start, but it’s all sorted out now,” Mr Maury said.

“Customs did not want to come in and clear the boats, although Immigration came in and was ready for the job.

“I got several calls from marinas all over The Bahamas - Bimini, Albany, Bay Street - that Customs was not coming into clear the vessels. They said they

• Customs no-show to clear incoming boats • ‘Sorted’ after marinas’ pleas for assistance • Govt: ‘Bound to be some day one hiccups’

DIONISIO D’AGUILAR

K PETER TURNQUEST

hadn’t got the memo. You know how that goes. We had boats here ready to go. The deputy prime minister and minister of tourism sorted it out, and we had boats clearing from 9am.”

Mr Maury said he moved rapidly for fear the situation could have resulted in a public relations disaster for The Bahamas, which had heavily promoted its June 15 re-opening to yachts, boats and private aviation traffic ahead of the border restrictions fully melting away to all other forms of tourism

traffic on July 1.

Noting that his and other marinas were “getting a lot of reservations” for next month, which includes the July 4 Independence Day holiday in the US, Mr Maury told this newspaper: “That’s why I pushed so hard this morning to get these boats cleared.

“If they turn around and say they tried to get into The Bahamas and it was a disaster because Customs said they were not going to clear anything, it will be posted on blogs and social media and go everywhere.... These guys

A FRUSTRATED Bahamian auto dealer yesterday revealed he “cannot make any headway” in resolving demands for thousands of dollars in port storage fees after COVID-19 left his vehicle imports “stuck on the dock”.

Brent Fox, Montague Motors’ principal, told Tribune Business he was faced with having to pay BISX-listed Arawak Port Development Company (APD) some $1,300 per vehicle after Customs failed to remove them to its storage facility once they had remained at the port facility for a week.

“I had couple of shipments coming in from Japan when the virus came down on us,” he disclosed. “They subsequently got stuck down at

[Customs and the public sector agencies] don’t think about the fall-out. Imagine if they had done this on July 1.”

Both Mr Turnquest and Mr D’Aguilar confirmed to Tribune Business that their intervention had been required, although neither went into detail about what caused the Customsrelated hold-up. The deputy prime minister blamed it on “just a misunderstanding on the form for the health clearance”, while his tourism counterpart said The Bahamas’ multiple islands and ports of entry meant it “takes a while for word to reach the troops on the ground”.

Mr D’Aguilar, suggesting that “hiccups” were inevitable as the Bahamian tourism industry sought to both relaunch and get to grips with its new COVID19 health protocols, said: “It’s the first day and everybody is trying to figure out

SEE PAGE 4

‘Now or never’ for Freeport

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

A PROMINENT QC yesterday urged the government to seize the “now or never” opportunity provided by COVID-19 to transform Freeport into “the economic juggernaut for the future of The Bahamas”.

Fred Smith QC, the Callenders & Co attorney and partner, told Tribune Business that The Bahamas will “never have another postpandemic moment like this” to cut through the red tape and restrictions that have prevented a city built for 300,000 persons from realising its 65-year potential.

He spoke out after Elsworth Johnson, minister of financial services, trade and Immigration, alluded to the role Freeport could play in a restructured, diversified Bahamian economy as a logistics, transhipment and

• QC: Bahamas ‘looking gift horse in mouth’ • Says COVID gives once-in-lifetime chance • Adds: ‘We want investors, not invaders’

FRED SMITH QC distribution hub that adds value to international trade.

Addressing the House of Assembly during the 2020-2021 Budget debate, Mr Johnson said Freeport has “arguably the best” trade infrastructure in the Western Hemisphere due to a combination

of the Hawksbill Creek Agreement’s investment incentives, its deep water harbour, the Freeport Container Port and other major industrial investments.

“Freeport presently contains the necessary international trade logistics infrastructure for the

Auto dealer’s fury over port charges

By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net

$3.80

• Faced with thousands in COVID storage fees • Never informed shipments has arrived at dock • APD chief: ‘We’ve been more than reasonable’

ARAWAK PORT the port and I was unable to clear them. Nobody called to advise me from any source that the cars were in that situation. Customs didn’t call me, the Arawak Port did not call me because that’s not their

responsibility, and my broker did not call me because they were not working.

“Now I have a bill for $1,300 per car. The people at the port (APD) said they were calling Customs to

come and pick up the cars, and Customs were saying they couldn’t do that; either they didn’t have the personnel or they were locked down with the virus. The port is blaming Customs, and Customs is saying it’s nothing to do with them.

“I have 12 cars there, and have cleared four of them, but the port is saying they cannot clear the others unless I pay a storage fee of $1,300 per vehicle. They want me to foot the bill. All I’m getting is the runaround, and no one wants to take responsibility apart from getting their money. Someone has to step and do something.”

SEE PAGE 5

creation of value-added trade centres,” Mr Johnson said. “The trade logistics infrastructure is arguably the best in the hemisphere.

“Freeport has the largest deep-water harbour in the hemisphere and operates a Container Port and transshipment terminal with the existing capacity to receive the anticipated Panamexsize ships expected with the expansion of the Panama Canal. There is also the Shipyard repair facilities located in Freeport.”

Jumping on Mr Johnson’s remarks, and giving them his “100 percent” backing, Mr Smith told Tribune Business: “Freeport is potentially

SEE PAGE 4

$3.23 Over 100 private planes targeting Bahamas visits

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net A BAHAMIAN fixed base operator (FBO) says it has close to 100 private aircraft inquiring about coming to The Bahamas within the next month after the sector reopened for business yesterday.

Alphonso Bowe, general manager of Jet Nassau Air Elite, told Tribune Business: “We have seen a marked uptick in arrivals. It was a very informative opening for private aircraft. These folks, they have a flight department that stays on top of this.

“We have had a lot of e-mails asking questions; lots and lots of e-mails. We have literally, at the moment, probably about close to 100 aircraft right now that are inquiring about coming within the next month or so. I think we’re going to be okay.”

Mr Bowe added that he has been fielding questions about “the latest updates, what do we need to do prior to arrivals, and so we’ve walked these people through the process. I wouldn’t say it’s been flawless, or seamless, but it has been a fairly uneventful day other than one or two hiccups.”

He said of these “hiccups”: “The process is a little longer than they anticipated. For example, we try to get all of the paperwork done prior to the arrival of the passengers.

But they have to understand that in this situation there is another department that involved in this, which is the health services, and the health services need all of their bases covered just in case something happens.

They need to know where you’re staying again, what is your telephone number, confirm your email address and etc, etc.”

Asked how customers are responding to this, Mr Bowe said: “They understand, the adults do. But the kids, they only have one thing on their mind. They want to get out, get to the beach as soon as possible. It’s freedom.”

“Especially coming from America now. From the comments I have read, people are saying Hallelujah, I am away from that stuff. Let’s go to the beach, let’s go fishing. It is a weight off of their shoulders.”

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PAGE 2, Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Hurbert Edwards, in the second of a five-part series to be published this week, warns that knee-jerk responses to the continuing onslaught on a key industry will merely prolong its demise.

THE TRIBUNE

TIME TO GET THE ‘BOOT’ OFF FINANCIAL SERVICES’ NECK

BY HUBERT EDWARDS

T

HE need for a strategic approach towards the Bahamian financial services industry is not a difficult argument to make. What becomes challenging is dealing with the potential disruption that will necessarily be caused by change. However, the outcome from doing nothing ought to make any reforms more palatable. Any disruption caused is likely to be far less impactful than what will inevitably result should there be no changes.

As a jurisdiction with no income tax, The Bahamas faces constant attacks from those who do, such as the US, European Union (EU), and organisations such as the G-7, Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) and Financial Action Task Force (FATF). All serve to protect the interests of developed economies.

With these pressures, and the recognition that past approaches to the provision of financial services are no longer viable, The Bahamas needs to become more proactive in responding to changes and developments taking place globally. With greater demand for “more tax compliant” financial centres, there needs to be an urgent and fundamental rethink of the country’s approach to developing, marketing and positioning itself as a international financial centre (IFC). There must be a clear, strategic national consensus on the development of the financial services industry.

There is a general perception that the government’s

role as strategic planner and implementation agent may have had a negative impact on the deployment of effective strategies. This is especially so in terms of timeliness and clarity. The result is that the strategic stance and growth of industry is effectively impeded due to lack of agility and clarity of intent, not at a disparate industry level but, rather, a unified national position.

The extent of our ad hoc approach to financial services can be seen from a 2009 National Economic Summit (NES) report. On page seven, it states: “The Bahamas does not have clear national goals and a strategic plan. Too much of what we do is done in an ad hoc way....

National aspirations should be clearly stated. In order to pursue any goal, it is necessary to first build national consensus in support of the goal. Secondly, employ high level policy analysis and planning to outline the ways and means of achieving the goal in the most cost-effective and efficient manner, taking into account the relevant trade-offs that would have to be made in the economy....We recommend that broad national goals and a strategic plan be

formulated to be achieved in specific time limits. That is: Short term, mediumterm and long-term. The national goals and strategic plan should reflect the collective effort of persons throughout The Bahamas.

Once done, policymakers should obtain strong commitment from those responsible for formulating, implementing, monitoring and measuring progress of the strategic plan. In turn, the policymakers should create the environment and make available the necessary resources needed for successful implementation.”

The National Development Plan The draft National Development Plan was designed to drive the economy’s direction, creating a road map and vision. There are several strategies, noted in the draft document, which are targeted at the financial services industry. The challenges identified speak to the fact that a more strategic approach is needed. Taken from page 401, the National Development Plan proffers the following: • The Bahamas will become a leading global financial services centre that is internationally connected, diversified and resilient. This is formulated to address identified challenges such as the changing dynamics of the financial services sector, economic diversification, and rankings on the Global Financial Centres Index.

• Improve the competitiveness of the financial services industry by ensuring the best talent (human capital) and infrastructure (business and quality of life) is readily available to the sector. This addresses the challenges of a

contracting offshore financial sector as firms struggle under the international pressures; the need for revision of the policy environment to encourage innovation and skills development; the lack of linkages to the rest of the economy; and education reforms to ensure there is sufficient human capital to fuel the growth of the sector over time.

• Position the prudent and responsive policy and regulatory environment of The Bahamas’ financial services sector as a key asset for its growth. This will address regulatory overshadowing of the sector; inconsistent approaches to policy development by regulatory institutions; and new product development.

• Ensure the international financial services sector provides greater direct and indirect value added, and employment, through an increase in high quality business establishments, diversification of its products; innovation on the market; the creation of supporting clusters; and a stronger Bahamas brand recognition. This is to address concerns that The Bahamas’ brand identity is vague, and misperceptions linger; a low “value-added” from the current product mix; and the need to penetrate new markets.

When note is taken of the challenges listed above, it becomes clear that a structured approach is needed as these are fundamental issues with deep implications for the jurisdiction. There are some obvious gaps highlighted, some of which became the topic of significant discussion recently due to the EU’s blacklisting of the financial services industry. When the news emerged that the EU would place The Bahamas on its noncooperative listing, there was a clear sense of exasperation from the public followed by the usual outflow of critique and analysis.

There was the lashing out against the EU for having an agenda specifically targeted at The Bahamas and, more generally, at IFCs. I make the argument, though, that until and unless we start to look at ways of

taking full control of strategic initiatives impacting the industry we are always going to be at a disadvantage. The industry demands active and proactive strategic planning, looking at the various options available to secure real advantage. This is an exercise that calls for the best committed minds available. My view is that at the heart of its strategic thrust, The Bahamas must no longer be a jurisdiction that moves to the collective strategies of international bodies but, rather, become an attractive entity which offers a compelling value proposition from a position of strength. In turn, this becomes the reason international companies elect to offer their services from The Bahamas. The National Development Plan may be a good place to start, but what is most important is that it should be done with great urgency.

The Bahamian economy is essentially based on two major pillars, tourism and financial services, with the former heavily focused on the US market. Notwithstanding the need for economic diversification, the financial services industry is a viable candidate for development.

It clearly has great potential for growth, and for making a greater contribution to the overall economy. A 2007 study conducted by Oxford Economics said: “Financial services play a crucial role in supporting the Bahamian economy, both directly by providing highly-rewarding employment opportunities for Bahamians, and indirectly by procuring from and providing vital services to other key sectors of the economy, such as tourism and real estate, and to individuals.”

Some highlights of the Oxford Economics findings were: “Approximately 27 percent of Bahamian GDP is directly or indirectly attributable to the financial services industry, making it the second most important industry in The Bahamas, after tourism”. The sector was said to then-support around 22,000 jobs, and more than 13 percent of total employment, while the job opportunities in the financial services

industry were among the best-paid available, attracting wages of $48,000 in the banking sector and $42,000 in the insurance sector. Those levels were between 75 percent to 100 percent higher than the national average of $24,000.

While contributing much less than tourism, in real terms, the financial services industry is clearly positioned to positively impact wealth generation in The Bahamas. At 27 percent, there is a clearly greater upside which can be obtained from the sector. National experience has shown the most significant investments in the tourism sector are foreign direct investmentbased and, generally, it is a capital-intensive sector.

This reality tends to exclude deep domestic participation at the ownership level. The financial services sector, on the other hand, holds the potential for greater domestic participation given its reliance on expert skills and labour intensive leanings.

My 2010 paper included this comment from a player in the sector. They said: “One of the main problems with The Bahamas’ financial services industry is the apparent lack of a strategic vision and plan.

Questions such as: Where is the industry going? How are we getting there? Is that the direction we should be going in? Are we moving in that direction because we plan to, or are we responding to internal or external promptings, need to be addressed.”

This comment underlines a perception that there is a lack of cohesive planning, and that The Bahamas financial services industry is one which consistently reacts to pressures, both internal and external, rather than charting a defined course to secure its desired future outcomes. It is often difficult to connect the dots looking forward. However, a glance backwards can be very instructive. The past is not always a precise predictor, but it provides evidence of patterns, habits, responses and behaviours that may portend the future. Importantly, it allows analysis of actions tied to results, and therefore provides a baseline for making future adjustments.

To be continued......

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, June 16, 2020, PAGE 3

Business Licence Act needs ‘export turnover’ clarity

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net THE government is being urged by the financial services industry to reform the Business License Act to clarify the definition of “export turnover”, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.

Elsworth Johnson, minister of financial services, trade and Immigration, told the House of Assembly during the budget debate: “The co-chairs of the Bahamas Financial Services Board (BFSB) tax working group met with officials at

the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR) to discuss the amendments to the Business Licence Act, specifically export turnover.

“During that meeting the co-chairs expressed to officials at the DIR the intention to draft recommended guidance notes to assist in clarifying export turnover. The guidance notes will look at different scenarios to craft the most appropriate definition for export turnover.”

Mr Johnson said the guidance notes were expected to be completed by March 16,

2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic and emergency orders have delayed this.

He added: “The FinTech working group met during the first quarter of 2020, and the Securities Commission of The Bahamas (SCB) was present to give an update on the Digital Assets Registered Exchanges (DARE) Bill 2020. The Securities Commission indicated that the DARE Bill, which was circulated for consultation, has been revised and that an updated version of the Bill is expected to be released soon.”

Beauty sector re-opens with appointment-only

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net

Teanes Simon, general manager of Kinkychix Salon, said: “Things are normal for the most part.

It’s the regulars and we are only taking appointments.

People are OK with it. We have been doing that before COVID-19.

Everyone came back. Everyone has their infection certificate and everyone came back to work.”

Keya Johnson, manager at Cameron’s Clean Cutz, said: “It’s pretty busy. I have a lot of the regulars coming in. We only allow a certain amount of people at a time. We only allow ten people in at a time, including barbers and clients. We just have them park their car and come in.

Everyone wants a haircut, but everyone wants to be safe.”

Asked whether he expects business volumes will return to normal soon, Mr Johnson replied: “I don’t think it’s going to happen. It’s always going to be like this for a while, taking these measures for keeping people safe. I don’t think the coronavirus

is going to disappear.”

He added that each barber has to have their own Ministry of Health infection prevention certificate in front of their stall to operate a booth in his shop.

Althea Johnson, general manager of Curlz Salon, said: “Things are fine.

We’re taking our precautionary measures and things are moving very smoothly.

People are coming in. The only thing I can say is that I am happy to know that they are following protocols.

“We all have our infection certificates. We are just taking it one day at a time. It’s four of us altogether. We have been off for about three months, and we specialise in kids. So a lot of people have been waiting for us to get back to it.

“This is our normal busy time for the kids, because school is closed and everybody wants their summer styles. They normally can’t get their styles while they are in school, so they come to us during the summer time for their summer styles.”

Online BPL bill payers up 68%

These have involved upgrading its website to introducing up-to-date, online views of customer accounts, to providing several convenient payment options, and working with software vendors to correct a problem created by a muchneeded security upgrade.

Dr Donovan Moxey, BPL’s chairman, said: “The picture is clear: BPL customers are increasingly moving to paying their bills online. We are excited for the change, and grateful to both our customers for making the switch and our team members who made the switch possible.”

BARBERS and hair salons yesterday said they were focusing on appointments only as the sector re-opened following three months of COVID-19 lockdown.

Garcia Davis, The Edge of Paradise Barber Shop’s owner/operator, told Tribune Business: “Our first day back is good. We’re doing appointments only, so we are booked for yesterday and today. Because we are doing appointment only, there is no need to have people wait inside the store.

“Most clients put in their appointments. So we came to work today and we are rolling them in on appointment. Everyone has their infection certificate, and all of my barbers came back to work. I don’t know how I will go for the remainder of the month, as some people are not used to being appointment-based.

But for now it’s been good, we have a good customer base.”

BAHAMAS Power & Light (BPL) yesterday said the number of customer paying their bills online has increased by 68.6 percent in the 13 months since it moved to a paperless environment.

Hailing the success of its strategy to push consumers towards the convenience of digital payments, BPL said in a statement that this initiative had received a further boost in recent months from the lockdowns and restrictions imposed by the government to counter COVID-19’s spread.

Some 26,800 customers paid their bills online through various electronic channels in May 2020, representing just under 39 percent of BPL’s client base.

This compared to 15,900 customers, or 22.8 percent of the total, who paid their bills online in April 2019.

Online bill payers in May 2020 produced $10.5m worth of revenue for BPL, which almost equalled the $10.8m obtained from those who paid at BPL’s offices and partner agencies such as Cash-N-Go, Sun Cash and Mango.

As a share of total dollar value payments for the month, online payments - including payments through the BPL website, pay-via-phone system and through private banking partners - accounted for 29.1 percent, versus the 30 percent walk-ins represented. For April 2019, online sources accounted for $6.9m worth of bill payments versus the $23.2m generated by walk-in customers that month.

Whitney Heastie, BPL’s chief executive, said: “We’re grateful to our customers for embracing the online portals, especially in the environment of social distancing required by the global COVID19 pandemic.”

BPL went paperless in April 2019, migrating customers away from paper to electronic bills, either online or through text messaging.

With the advent of the COVID-19 emergency orders, particularly social distancing and “shelter in place”, BPL has focused on improving its online business platforms.

Govt not hostage to WTO ‘target dates’

By YOURI KEMP Tribune Business Reporter ykemp@tribunemedia.net THE government will not be held hostage to any deadlines or timelines for completing The Bahamas’ accession to full World Trade Organisation (WTO) membership, a Cabinet minister said yesterday.

Elsworth Johnson, pictured, minister of financial services, trade and industry and Immigration, indicated that the Minnis administration had not abandoned plans to accede to the WTO even though the effort appeared to have stalled last year.

Arguing that The Bahamas cannot afford “to remain on the sidelines” on discussions impacting global trade, Mr Johnson said this nation “must and should be present” even though it currently only has observer status with the WTO. He reiterated that membership in the body overseeing the world’s rulesbased trade must produce benefits for the Bahamian people and their economy, while acknowledging that this nation’s accession efforts were now entering their 20th year - thereby setting a record for the longest-running WTO accession.

“While the Minnis-led administration is committed to reforming the country’s trading regime and its laws, strengthening existing institutions or creating new ones to facilitate trade, strict timelines and meeting target dates are not the principle goals in this process,” Mr Johnson said.

“Paramount for this administration is the necessity to ensure that any trade negotiations that The Bahamas might be involved in are ultimately beneficial to the Bahamian people and the future development of The Bahamas.”

Mr Johnson’s “strict timelines” and “target dates” comments refer to the fact that the government had initially set year-end 2019 as the goal for completing negotiations for The Bahamas’ accession to full membership.

The accession was then supposed to be ratified by the WTO at its June 2020 plenary, but this timeline ultimately proved impossible to meet given both the extent of the negotiations and domestic opposition to joining the WTO. Mr Johnson himself subsequently said that, as a result, The Bahamas will not become a full WTO member within the next five years, whereas Zhivargo Laing, the government’s chief WTO negotiator, suggested this might not happen within the next decade.

The minister yesterday, though, illustrated the dilemma now facing The Bahamas by suggesting this nation wants to influence the evolution of global trade rules even though its WTO

observer status leaves it in no position to achieve this.

“It does not bode well for our small country to remain on the sidelines when decisions that can impact our country’s future development are being made,” Mr Johnson said. “We must find ways to participate in those discussions which will impact the international trading system and, by extension, our own country which is a part of that system.

“The Bahamas must, and should, be present and leading as discussions on such issues occur within international organisations tasked to address such issues.” He also acknowledged that the Oxford Economics report, commissioned by the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC), had set out a road map showing how WTO accession “can be used as a tool to lock in business friendly reforms, modernise the economy and unlock the country’s growth potential”.

NOTICE Pursuant to the provisions of Section 138 (4) of the International Business Companies Act,2000 of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Notice is hereby given that:- BEOTHUK INVESTMENT LTD. is in Dissolution; the commencement date is 15th. day of May 2020 and the Liquidator is Trevor D.A. Sunderland, Pilot House condo – Apt 508, East Bay Street, (P. O. Box, SS 6290) Nassau, Bahamas, TREVOR D.A. SUNDERLAND - Liquidator

PAGE 4, Tuesday, June 16, 2020

RBC UNVEILS SECOND COVID RELIEF PHASE ROYAL Bank of Canada (RBC) yesterday unveiled a second phase of loan repayment deferrals for Bahamian and Caribbean clients impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

RBC’s personal banking clients will be able to apply for further three-month payment deferrals on auto loans, instalment loans and mortgages with immediate effect. Borrowers can participate by applying online through their web browser at https://caribbean.rbcroyalbank.com.

RBC FINCO mortgage clients must call the Bahamas Advice Centre at (242) 356-8500 or speak to their FINCO representative. Clients must apply for deferrals by 11:59pm on July 15, 2020. Business banking and corporate banking clients may also apply for financial relief, following individual eligibility assessments with a relationship manager.

To be eligible, RBC said client accounts must have been current and in good standing as at February 29, 2020. Borrowers who participated in the first phase of automatic payment deferrals can apply for these latest phase, but those already participating in non-COVID RBC relief programmes are excluded.

RBC encouraged clients who are in a position to keep making their regular monthly payments to continue to do so, and said it may consider other relief measures if necessary.

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THE TRIBUNE

Ministers to rescue on tourism’s ‘rocky start’

FROM PAGE ONE how it all works, but I think we got everything sorted out.

“The Bahamas is an archipelagic country, and there are multiple ports of entry, so it takes a while for the word to get out to the troops on the ground. We expected a few hiccups on day one, and there will probably be some more on day two.

“Once everyone gets familiar with the new normal these bumps in the road will go away. It’s a function of getting the word out to the troops on the ground. The heads of Customs and Immigration have both been very supportive of getting the tourism industry back open, making it as easy as possible while adhering to health protocols, and they acted very swiftly as soon as this was brought to their attention.”

Mr Turnquest, who has ministerial responsibility for Customs, added: “Everything is fine now. It was a simple matter of the health form not being the correct

‘Now or never’ for Freeport FROM PAGE ONE the economic juggernaut for the future of The Bahamas, and I am very happy that the minister recognises that.

We in Freeport are very keen to work with the minister, and would welcome any collaboration between the government, licensees and Grand Bahama Port Authority.”

Calling on the prime minister to match the

form. This was the first day.

There will be little hiccups.

That was sorted and everything should be working fine.” Dr Geannine Moss, Customs comptroller, did not respond to a Tribune Business e-mail seeking comment before press time last night.

Mr Maury, meanwhile, told Tribune Business that most Bahamian marinas were hoping July and August will generate sufficient business to carry them through the remainder of 2020 and enable them to reach a “break even” position financially after losing three months to COVID-19.

“If things continue into July, and we’re able to get the bookings we have in, and it [COVID-19] doesn’t go completely off the charts and we avoid a hurricane, I think we will get a couple of good months to see it through,” he said.

“That’s all we can hope for. I don’t think anyone will have a banner year or profitable year. I think what everyone is hoping for is break even. I don’t think

anybody will be putting money in the bank, but if we get to that [break even] point we will be able to plan for 2021. That’s what we’re hoping for. I don’t have great expectations.”

Mr Maury said a number of yachts and boats had informed him they were “going to wait for July 1” and the wider Bahamian tourism re-opening given the expectation that they would no longer be required to provide the results of a COVID-19 test before entering this nation.

The ABM chief, though, said he had warned these potential visitors: “Don’t count on that.” While Mr D’Aguilar previously told this newspaper that the Bahamian tourism industry believed requiring visitors to take such a test, and obtain the results, prior to travelling would be impractical, the Prime Minister said he had yet to determine what the policy will be come July 1.

Mr Maury said social media images and videos of persons not wearing masks and adhering to social

distancing at Arawak Cay, as well as rising COVID-19 infection rates in key US tourist source markets such as Florida, would potentially be sufficient encouragement for the government to reimpose restrictions.

He added, though, that the boating/yachting industry was characterised by social distancing and other COVID-related protocols - especially given that there are currently few to no vessels in The Bahamas. Mr Maury said many of his existing reservations are for “overnight”, with vessels entering and clearing Customs/Immigration before heading off to the Exumas and other Family Islands.

“I’m happy we’re getting some business,” he told Tribune Business. “It’s not the normal level of business, but at least it’s something.

I’ve talked to half a dozen marinas where vessels have been clearing. It’s bringing something, whereas last week I had nothing. If I get a day’s dockage, a couple of day’s dockage, at least it’s something.

“We’re full for July, but that is still two weeks away, and it depends on what happens between now and then. That may change depending on testing requirements or other regulations. I’m just hoping we get to that point and nothing gets too crazy. The one thing we know with this virus is that everything changes in a week. You cannot plan anything. The only thing that’s consistent is you cannot plan from one week to the next.”

Mr D’Aguilar, meanwhile, confirmed that visitors will have to abide by the 9pm5am curfew, beach closures and all other restrictions still in place. While these restrictions may not be consistent with the environment The Bahamas wants to offer to tourists, he said visitors and residents will receive exactly the same treatment.

“We’re trying to address all of these issues,” he said.

“There’s the health environment and restoring the tourism industry. Sometimes they do not move in the same direction, but we’ll address these things as they come up.”

demands he made of the government’s Economic Recovery Committee for “bold” thinking postCOVID-19, the outspoken QC argued that the pandemic’s economic fall-out had created what might be The Bahamas’ final chance to maximise the economic impact envisaged by Freeport’s founders.

“Given that we already have this infrastructure for about 300,000 people in Freeport, this is the quintessential anchor project that has been here since 1955,” Mr Smith argued. “It is about time all our politicians, FNM and PLP, and the bureaucrats in Nassau, recognised this gift horse staring them in the mouth.

“It’s now or never. Prime Minister, take a bold step.

Make Freeport the future of The Bahamas. It was always supposed to be an experimental economic hub under the Hawksbill Creek Agreement. Do it now. It will take some years; it will not happen overnight, but once you demonstrate good faith to investors again they will come back in droves.

“Frankly, we’re never going to have another postpandemic moment like this.

The government should say we are not going to reinvent the wheel in other parts of The Bahamas, and create all these Heads of Agreements for the rest of The Bahamas, like they did with the I-Group in Mayaguana, and recognise as a national

policy the spectacular infrastructure and ready-made jurisdictional construct in Freeport.”

Suggesting that The Bahamas is “under-populated”, Mr Smith argued that Freeport has the necessary infrastructure to support the necessary population expansion for creating sufficient critical mass to support a self-sustaining internal market.

He also called on the government to attract investors who saw themselves making Freeport and, by extension, The Bahamas as their permanent home.

This, Mr Smith said, would ensure they and their families had a stake in building successful businesses and communities, and he urged:

“We want investors, not transient invaders.”

This, he argued, was what had helped Freeport to thrive in its early years.

“Foreign investors didn’t come as transient investors,” the well-known QC told this newspaper. “They came with their families and savings, and invested their dollars and became permanent members of the community.

“There was a permanent community of foreign investors, and that’s what we need. We don’t transient investment by some big multinational corporation that is here today and gone tomorrow. We want investors, not invaders, and people who are going to meaningfully invest themselves, their family and money in building the community, be it in Nassau, Freeport or elsewhere.”

Some observers may view some of Freeport’s early investments, such as casino gambling, as less than attractive, while concerns over the Grand Bahama Port Authority’s (GBPA) direction, ownership and management will also likely have to be addressed for the city to be resurrected.

However, Mr Smith argued that the government can give an immediate boost to investor confidence by publicly stating as policy that it will extend Freeport’s real property tax, business licence, income and capita gains tax exemptions until the Hawksbill Creek Agreement expires in 2054.

Also calling on the government to lose its “Immigration insecurities”, and permit the entrepreneurs and skilled workers required for Freeport to flourish to enter the country, he added: “It’s all well and good for us to talk about building a technology hub, attracting a medical school or having a university.

“None of those ideas will work unless we have an investment and Immigration policy which says we want investors to come here with their families and money to help create a better future and successful community.”

Mr Smith said achieving this would help create thousands of Bahamian jobs, while also allowing locals to partner in joint ventures with foreigners by removing restrictions such as exchange controls.

“Talking and talking about change, and doing the same thing every administration has done for the last 30 years, will not get us anywhere,” he told Tribune Business. “The simplicity of this is they don’t have to make any drastic changes.

“All they have to do is extend the Hawksbill Creek Agreement, allow the Port Authority to be the one-stop shop and stop interfering with economic activity in Freeport. Add the licensees in Freeport, and businesses generally in Grand Bahama, as one of the exempted entities to benefit under the Commercial Enterprises Act, which will drastically simplify the process for work permits.”

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL The Public is hereby advised that I, DESIREE ROBERTS of Bethel Avenue, Stapledon Gardens, and I, JEROME GOMEZOf Greenwood Road, Nassau, The Bahamas, mother and father of PEYTON ABIGAIL ROBERTS A minor intend to change my child’s name to PEYTON ABIGAIL GOMEZ If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Deputy Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

PUBLIC NOTICE

INTENT TO CHANGE NAME BY DEED POLL The Public is hereby advised that I, MARVIN SELENTO RHODRIQUEZ of Carmichael Road, P.O. Box N-33056, intend to change my name to MARVIN SALENTO RODRIQUEZ. If there are any objections to this change of name by Deed Poll, you may write such objections to the Deputy Chief Passport Officer, P.O. Box N-742, Nassau, Bahamas no later than thirty (30) days after the date of publication of this notice.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, June 16, 2020, PAGE 5

Auto dealer’s fury over port charges FROM PAGE ONE Mr Fox explained that vehicle imports were typically allowed to remain at APD’s facilities for a week storage-fee free while the relevant border taxes (excise duty and VAT) were paid.

Once this was cleared, Customs typically removed the vehicles to its storage warehouse on Thompson Boulevard where he collected them.

He added that at least “20-30 Family Island” residents were in the same situation as himself, having been unable to travel to Nassau to claim their imported vehicles due to the COVID-19 lockdown, and were now reluctant to to do

so for fear of incurring exorbitant storage fees.

“You’re supposed to clear them in a week, and Customs moves them to its storage facility,” the Montague Motors chief added.

“The fee there is $50 per car per week. The port is $50 a day. I paid $1,000 per car last week, and now it’s up to $1,300 something.”

Mr Fox said he had met with Richard McCombe, APD’s operations manager, who had informed him the port’s efforts to contact Customs to remove the vehicles before storage fees were incurred had proven futile.

He added that APD’s onemonth waiver of storage fees had ended in mid-April and, as a publicly-traded company, needed to collect what

was owed to it.

The Montague Motors chief, though, told Tribune Business that the additional storage fee demands will place further strain on his business - and its cash flow - given that the COVID19 lockdown means he has not sold a vehicle for three months.

“These are some rough and unprecedented times,” he added, “and you’d think the parties would be able to eliminate this sort of problem. If you don’t shine a light on it no one will claim responsibility. I’ve got trouble trying to make ends meet and cannot seem to make any headway.

“Now I’ve got a $15,000 bill to pay or I won’t be able to clear the cars. You don’t

even have money to clear the cars as we’ve not sold a car in three months. Nobody is stepping up to the plate.

I assumed the cars were in Customs storage, but the port said they were still sitting here and I needed to pay $4,000 to release them. I did those first set of cars.

“I’ve got eight more pending and have money to clear another four, but am desperate to see if they waive those storage fees. I’m not asking for a favour but it was a world event and there was nothing I can do.”

However, Dion Bethell, president and chief executive of BISX-listed APD, told Tribune Business that the Nassau Container Port operator had been more than generous in its application

of storage fees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He confirmed that APD further extended the storage fee waiver to May 15, beyond the initial one-month “holiday” provided to midApril, after it realised that COVID-19’s impact on the Road Traffic Department meant many vehicle importers would be unable to licence their autos and have them inspected.

“We’ve been more than fair and reasonable with storage allowance,” Mr Bethell added. “When you look at the eight days in March, 30 days in April and 15 days in May, we effectively provided a vehicle storage facility free for 53 days. Adding in the existing seven days gives 60 days of holiday.

“We appreciate the circumstances we all find ourselves in, but the port has done more than enough to compensate for the difficulties. The majority of the dealers, whether it was Nassau Motor Company, Bahamas Bus and Truck, Auto Mall and Friendly Ford, brought in a combination of new and used vehicles during that period and did not incur any storage charges.

“That was because they knew the date of arrival and did what was necessary to have them cleared and removed from the facility.”

Dr Geannine Moss, the Customs comptroller, did not respond to Tribune Business messages seeking comment before press time last night.

Central Bank chief: Fiscal ‘discipline’ key after COVID FROM PAGE ONE

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Intelisys is a boutique corporate restructuring, insolvency, forensic accounting, litigation support and debt and asset recovery and collection services firm in The Bahamas. We are seeking applications for the below listed position.

SENIOR ANALYST, FINANCIAL ADVISORY SERVICES The Senior Analyst will be responsible for performing the day-to-day financial analysis, investigations, research, business development and statutory tasks for corporate recovery, forensic accounting, liquidation or asset recovery assignments. The successful applicant is expected to be client focused, perform their duties with appropriate confidentiality and professionalism, demonstrate an appropriate level of initiative and organization, and be able to operate in a demanding environment.

The ideal candidate should have a finance or accounting degree and have completed a qualification in one of the fields from a recognized institution or professional body. The successful applicant will typically have had at least three to six years relevant work experience, preferably with a Big Four Accounting firm.

The range of salary for this post is commensurate with qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package includes health insurance, a discretionary bonus and 15 days’ vacation.

Written applications along with detailed resume should be submitted no later than 18 June 2020 at: info@intelisysltd.com: Intelisys P O Box SP 64064 • Nassau • The Bahamas

government’s liabilities, saying: “There is this third measure of debt that we also look at, which is the total debt that is owed by the government - whether it is guaranteed by the government, or it is borrowed outright by the corporations.

“The difference between the national debt and the direct charge, or the central government debt, is that in ordinary times the direct charge is borrowing that is taken on directly by the consolidated fund, and therefore every year in the budget the government would provision to pay the

interest and the principal for debt servicing.”

The Central Bank governor added: “The contingent liabilities are usually when the government steps in and guarantees the borrowing of the public enterprises, or any entity the government chooses to guarantee. In ordinary times those entities would continue to service their own principal and interest payments, but if they run into difficulties the government steps in and helps with the payment.

“The reason why, in countries like ours, total public debt matters as well, is because if we have a very credible government then

there is also the assumption that the government will stand by any of its entities and undertake borrowing and, if they run into difficulties, the government will do what is needed to make certain that those entities will honour their obligations.

“From that point of view the public debt becomes important for the country, but also a government having credibility can allow its public enterprises to borrow without necessarily the explicit guarantee that it would repay. That doesn’t mean that the government would not repay, but just that explicitly it doesn’t have to provide the guarantee.”

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, June 16, 2020, PAGE 7

House demands coronavirus loan info from Treasury, banks WASHINGTON Associated Press A HOUSE subcommittee investigating billions of dollars in coronavirus aid is demanding that the Trump administration and some of the nation’s largest banks turn over detailed information about companies that applied for and received federal loans intended for small businesses.

The requests on Monday came after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told Congress last week that the names of loan recipients and the amounts disbursed as part of the $600bn-plus Paycheck Protection Program are “proprietary information” and do not have to be made public.

Democrats say there is nothing proprietary or confidential about businesses receiving millions of taxpayer dollars.

The letters ask the banks, Treasury Department and the Small Business Administration for a complete list of applicants for loans, whether they were approved and details on the guidance Treasury has issued. The subcommittee is also asking for communications between the government and the banks.

Democrats say they are not receiving enough information about the loan disbursements and fear the Treasury Department has favored large, well-funded companies over smaller businesses in underserved communities.

In the letters, the Democrats on the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis request that the banks “take immediate steps to ensure that remaining PPP funds are allocated to those businesses truly in need”.

In the letter to Mnuchin and Small Business Administrator Jovita Carranza, the Democrats urged more transparency “so American taxpayers can understand whether federal funds are helping vulnerable businesses and saving jobs, or are being diverted due to waste, fraud, and abuse”.

The committee, which is headed by Rep James

Clyburn, D-SC, sent the letters to executives of some of the largest lenders in the programme, including JP Morgan Chase, Wells Fargo, US Bancorp, Bank of America, PNC Bank and Citigroup.

Florida Sen Marco Rubio, a Republican who heads the small business panel and pushed for creation of the loan programme, said Monday that he has spoken to Mnuchin, and they are “working through” a way to ensure that the names of some loan recipients are made public.

“There will be disclosure,’’ Rubio said, adding it will likely be focused on larger loans above $2m or some other number to be determined.

“I’m not sure there’s a lot of curiosity about a $15,000 loan,’’ he said, “but obviously the bigger numbers at the top end ... it’s hard to argue that information shouldn’t be available.’’

“If you have a big loan, you know, there’s no avoiding it. We’re going to need to know who you are,’’ Rubio said.

In the ten weeks after the Paycheck Protection Program was launched, the SBA says it has processed 4.5 million loans worth $511bn. But it has yet to reveal the recipients of taxpayer aid. The agency has only provided general information, such as the total amounts of loans awarded in a given time period.

The loans can be forgiven if businesses use the money to keep employees on payroll or rehire workers who have been laid off.

A spokeswoman for Wells Fargo says the San Francisco-based bank “continues to work as quickly as possible to prepare and submit Paycheck Protection Program applications from our small business customers to the US Small Business Administration.’’

As of May 31, 168,000 PPP applications have received SBA guaranties through Wells Fargo totaling $10.2bn, spokeswoman Jennifer Dunn said. More than 80% of funding is for companies with less than ten employees and more

than half the loans are for $25,000 or less, she said.

Louisiana Rep Steve Scalise, the No 2 House Republican and the senior GOP member on the coronavirus subcommittee, said Democrats were “asking questions that have already been answered”, and trying to make that “look like real oversight to hurt President Trump in an election year’’.

Lawmakers already know that financial institutions were able to process applications from existing clients more quickly than new clients because of vetting requirements under existing law, Scalise said. The banking industry warned Congress this would happen before the programme was approved, he added.

The request by the special oversight committee follows a request by three Democratic House chairs calling for the Trump administration to release the names of businesses that received PPP loans.

“At a minimum, we owe the American people that information,’’ wrote Reps.

Richard Neal of Massachusetts, Maxine Waters of California and Nydia Velázquez of New York.

Neal chairs the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, Waters leads Financial Services and Velázquez heads Small Business.

A spokeswoman for Scalise called the Democrats’s request misguided.

“To retroactively go back now and start naming and shaming businesses is completely counterproductive to the programme’s intent,’’ said spokesman Lauren Fine.

Scalise, in a statement Monday, said the PPP is working as intended: “It was designed to get money out the door and into workers’ paychecks quickly, and that’s what it has been doing.’’

CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF THE CHILDREN AT RANFURLY

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Their further development requires additional support in the form of a Transitional Home, planned for construction on the Ranfurly property.

This residence will cater to teenagers and young adults who are beyond school age, but need accommodation while they find work and gain independence from the Home.

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• Personal fulfillment in knowing you are impacting lives • Ranfurly children’s appreciation and positive response • Continued support provides stability and constant care

We look forward to your continued support in this worthwhile endeavour.

For more information visit: www.ranfurlyhome.org Please “Like” us on Facebook Ranfurly Home for Children, Mackey Street P.O. Box 1413 Nassau, Bahamas 242-393-3115

MARKET REPORT www.bisxbahamas.com

(242) 323-2330

MONDAY, 15 JUNE 2020

(242) 323-2320

ALL SHARE INDEX: CLOSE: 2,138.87 | CHG: 0.24 | %CHG: 0.01 | YTD: -92.73 | YTD%: -4.16 BISX LISTED & TRADED SECURITIES

To advertise in The Tribune, contact 502-2394

Financial Controller A Bahamian owned company is seeking a

Financial Controller

Applicants should possess the following qualifications: Knowledge and Education: • An accounting Degree • A minimum of ten years industry experience as a financial controller in managerial capacity.

Skills: • Excellent interpersonal skills • Excellent managerial skills • Strong computer skills • Strong analytical skills • Strong oral and written skills • Able to work in a very dynamic environment Job responsibilities include the following: • Supervising the complete accounting cycle • Preparing monthly financial statements • Co-ordinating all other areas of the business to ensure optimal efficiency • Dealing with all government reporting requirements Interested persons should apply no later than June 23, 2020.

Apply to: DA #119234 c/o The Tribune P.O. Box N-3207 Nassau, The Bahamas

52WK HI 4.45 22.65 7.00 6.75 2.58 2.00 5.47 12.77 6.16 4.50 10.30 3.64 5.10 10.88 8.44 16.99 9.40 4.25 15.21

52WK LOW 3.35 20.91 5.50 5.39 1.78 0.67 2.00 10.21 5.60 3.62 5.41 2.53 1.85 8.00 7.10 13.04 6.98 3.20 13.90

SECURITY AML Foods Limited APD Limited Bahamas Property Fund Bahamas Waste Bank of Bahamas Benchmark Cable Bahamas CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank Colina Holdings Commonwealth Bank Commonwealth Brewery Consolidated Water BDRs Doctor's Hospital Emera Incorporated Famguard Fidelity Bank Finco Focol J. S. Johnson

SYMBOL AML APD BPF BWL BOB BBL CAB CIB CHL CBL CBB CWCB DHS EMAB FAM FBB FIN FCL JSJ

1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00

1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00

Cable Bahamas Series 6 Cable Bahamas Series 8 Cable Bahamas Series 9 Cable Bahamas Series 10 Colina Holdings Class A Fidelity Bank Class A Focol Class B

CAB6 CAB8 CAB9 CAB10 CHLA FBBA FCLB

PREFERENCE SHARES

1.00 10.00 1.00

1.00 10.00 0.90

CORPORATE DEBT - (percentage pricing) 52WK HI 100.00

52WK LOW 100.00

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

104.79 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

SECURITY Fidelity Bank Note 22 (Series B) +

SYMBOL FBB22

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

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

BAHAMAS GOVERNMENT STOCK - (percentage pricing)

LAST CLOSE 3.55 17.43 6.00 6.75 1.78 1.62 3.00 11.26 6.10 4.00 6.01 2.95 5.10 9.59 8.44 14.50 8.97 4.00 15.20

CLOSE 3.55 17.43 6.00 6.75 1.78 1.62 3.00 11.26 6.10 4.00 6.01 3.01 5.10 9.81 8.44 14.50 8.97 4.00 15.20

CHANGE 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.06 0.00 0.22 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1.00 10.00 0.90

1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1000.00 1.00 10.00 0.90

0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

CLOSE 100.00

CHANGE 0.00

107.31 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

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

LAST SALE 100.00 107.31 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00

VOLUME

10

VOLUME

50

EPS$ 0.239 0.932 1.760 0.369 0.070 0.000 -0.438 0.722 0.449 0.184 0.140 0.102 0.467 0.646 0.728 0.816 0.939 0.203 0.631

DIV$ 0.170 1.260 0.000 0.260 0.000 0.020 0.000 0.720 0.220 0.120 0.000 0.434 0.060 0.328 0.240 0.540 0.200 0.120 0.610

P/E 14.9 18.7 N/M 18.3 N/M N/M -6.8 15.6 13.6 21.7 42.9 29.5 10.9 15.2 11.6 17.8 9.6 19.7 24.1

0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000

0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

YIELD 4.79% 7.23% 0.00% 3.85% 0.00% 1.23% 0.00% 6.39% 3.61% 3.00% 0.00% 14.42% 1.18% 3.34% 2.84% 3.72% 2.23% 3.00% 4.01% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 6.25% 7.00% 6.50%

INTEREST Prime + 1.75%

MATURITY 19-Oct-2022

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

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

YTD% 12 MTH% 1.04% 3.87% 0.61% 2.93% 0.50% 2.50% -1.34% 2.23% -12.71% -5.79% 0.94% 3.72% -3.46% 2.09% -0.11% 3.43% -3.33% 1.53% -0.32% 10.20% -1.58% 15.37% 0.88% 5.22% -4.91% 10.77% 1.89% 6.75% -1.95% 0.38% N/A N/A -10.90% -4.30% -18.80% -12.00%

NAV Date 31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 27-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 29-Feb-2020 29-Feb-2020 29-Feb-2020 29-Feb-2020 29-Feb-2020 29-Feb-2020

MUTUAL FUNDS 52WK HI 2.31 4.40 2.10 198.39 168.29 1.67 1.85 1.76 1.24 8.34 10.26 7.00 12.15 12.58 10.81 10.00 8.98 11.79

52WK LOW 1.67 3.30 1.68 164.74 116.70 1.61 1.75 1.70 1.14 6.41 7.62 5.66 8.65 10.54 9.57 9.88 8.45 11.20

FUND CFAL Bond Fund CFAL Balanced Fund CFAL Money Market Fund CFAL Global Bond Fund CFAL Global Equity Fund Leno Preferred Income Fund Leno Growth Fund Leno Diversified Fund Leno Global USD Bond Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Secured Balanced Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Targeted Equity Fund Royal Fidelity Bahamas Opportunities Fund - Prime Income Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - Equities Sub Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - High Yield Fund Royal Fidelity Int'l Fund - Alternative Strategies Fund Colonial Bahamas Fund Class D Colonial Bahamas Fund Class E Colonial Bahamas Fund Class F

NAV 2.31 4.39 2.10 192.52 145.55 1.67 1.79 1.75 1.16 8.31 10.07 7.00 11.42 12.58 10.52 N/A 8.31 10.01

MARKET TERMS

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

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

TO TRADE CALL: CFAL 242-502-7010 | ROYALFIDELITY 242-356-7764 | COLONIAL 242-502-7525 | LENO 242-396-3225 | BENCHMARK 242-326-7333

31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020 31-Mar-2020

PAGE 8, Tuesday, June 16, 2020

THE TRIBUNE

BODY AND MIND

New TV show aims to help Bahamians get moving and tackle nationwide obesity crisis

BY ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features writer | acadet@tribunemedia.net

DEKEL “Bowflex Barbie” Quant will lead a workout and health segment on the new show ‘Morning Moves’

P

rofessional fitness trainer Dekel Quant, better known as ‘Bowflex Barbie’, is bringing her workout routine directly to your TV screen.

The 27-year-old, who is also a sports injury specialist and a physique and figure training specialist, said she is happy local television executives have recognised that programmes focusing on physical exercise are long overdue.

She told Tribune Health she is looking forward to being able to play a part in helping Bahamians connect to fitness and really make strides in improving the overall health of the country.

Her show will is called “Morning Moves With Bowflex Barbie” and is set to premiere with a preview week on OUR TV’s channel 212, Monday June 22, to Friday June 26, at 6am and at 9am, and on Saturday, June 27, at 8am and 10am. “ ‘Morning Moves with Bowflex Barbie’ is a daily 30-minute morning show that allows viewers to first take part in a 20-minute workout with me, and sometimes I will be accompanied by a special guest and will also have other instructors lead some workouts from the comfort of their home. The workouts are designed for all fitness levels and offer a wide range of training styles. Following the workout there is a health and lifestyle segment that will cover different topics under total wellness, including nutrition, goal-setting, behavioural changes and more. We have modifications and low impact versions for most movements and workouts will vary in style using minimal to no equipment and things you have around the house, like chairs and towels,” said Dekel.

The show’s concept, she said, is intended to help fight and reverse the obesity crisis the Bahamas is currently facing. Dekel noted that pre-coronavirus, the country’s health statistics were alarming, with high rates of obesity, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that are strongly linked to lifestyle.

“We know that post COVID-19, health, fitness and wellness are still a major concern as we see how obesity and NCDs affected and made those persons diagnosed more susceptible to the virus.

‘Morning Moves’ aims to provide regular

Medical fund launched for well-known artist injured badly in fall

and consistent access to fitness programming, promoting more movement, as well as wellness education through the lifestyle segment that will come on right after the workout that aims to provide strategies and practical tips to help Bahamians improve their overall wellness and health,” said Dekel.

The fitness professional is also inviting Bahamians to follow the show’s social media platforms, morningmoves242 on Instagram and on Facebook, as the team will share additional resources and will be giving Bahamians a chance to join in on the show as well.

“I do believe that Bahamians who tune in and take advantage of the workout programming and health and lifestyle segment will be equipped with the tools to improve their health, wellness and fitness right away,” she said.

For her, preparing for the show’s premiere has meant a lot of hard work; planning, filming and organising the show.

But the process has also been very rewarding, she said. Connecting with various fitness professionals for the show has been empowering, and the production team at Lifestyles DMG, she added, has been very professional and will offer the viewers a high-quality show.

“The feedback I am looking forward to most is seeing people engage and enjoy the workouts, making them a part of their weekly routines. I hope they are able to develop a healthy relationship with health and fitness and really adapt it as a lifestyle through tuning in to ‘Morning Moves’ and using the show as an accountability partner and educational resource,” said Dekel.

fracture of the spine. It is likely that surgery, long-term physiotherapy and professional at-home care will be required. Additional purchases such as a walker, shower chair and other items will be necessary.

In order to return to gainful employment with his after-school art classes and framing business, Kim will need full use of his hands. At the moment, he is unable to use either and is also unable to move his legs and feet.

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net Kim’s family and friends are looking to raise $75,000 to cover the costs of this care and are RELATIVES of Bahamian The well-known pencil artist, appealing to the art community artist Kim Smith have launched whose hyper-realistic artwork to assist where possible.

According to the Go Fund Me a GoFundMe campaign to raise sometimes fools even photographers, had an accident while out page, hospital costs for the first money for his ongoing medical on his daily walk. week exceed $30,000, and that expenses after he suffered a seriAs a result of his fall, he was does not include all the physician hospitalised with a compression fees. ous fall last week.

“There will be expenses once he is home for equipment, continued rehabilitation and dental follow-ups. It is still undetermined as to how much physical therapy and occupational therapy he will require to regain his full function” his family said.

“At present, Kim is seriously mobility challenged. He has minimal movement in his hands and arms but is able to start standing and taking a few steps with assistance. The prognosis for full recovery is very positive, however, not without hours of specialised care, physiotherapy and most likely surgery.”

Kim has been an educator in the Bahamas for over 20 years, after moving here from Canada.

He has worked in both the Anglican and Catholic school systems, and has taught many children.

He also has his private art classes attended by both adults and children, and some of these students have gone on to become artists in their own right.

Kim has also been a supporter of other artists in the Bahamas and is always active in the art community, lending encouragement and support to various efforts and initiatives.

He is a partner in the boutique frame shop A Place for Art located on Village Road.

A GoFundMe account has been activated and payments can be made directly to his patient account at Doctors Hospital. The link is www.gofundme.com/f/ help-kim-smith-the-artistrecover.

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, June 16, 2020, PAGE 9

Bahamians ‘notoriously poor at addressing health needs’ June is Men’s Health Awareness Month 1. What is the importance of men’s health awareness?

I became a urologist with the aim of improving the quality of lives of Bahamian men, women and children. Bahamian men are unfortunately notoriously poor at addressing their own health needs.

Prostate cancer will strike one in six Bahamian men in their lifetime. The Bahamas has the 14th highest per capita prostate cancer incidence in the world. At least 80 Bahamian men died of prostate cancer in 2019 and more than 200 Bahamian men were diagnosed with prostate cancer that same year. Bahamian men have all the risk factors for an aggressive form of prostate cancer, in being a nation of predominantly men of African ancestry, having a high rate of obesity and have a high incidence of BRCA gene mutations.

Bahamian black men often have prostate cancer on average six to seven years earlier than men of other racial persuasions.

Prostate cancer has an almost 100 percent cancer specific survival rate at five years and 98 percent cancer specific survival rate at ten years, if the disease is diagnosed and treated at an early stage. Early diagnosis is key in the fight against needless prostate cancer related deaths in the Bahamas. Knowledge is imperative if we are going to stop unnecessary prostate cancer deaths in our Bahamas.

Men’s Health Awareness month not only attempts to save lives but also tries to improve the quality of the lives of men.

Erectile dysfunction is a taboo topic that Bahamian men are timid in speaking about it and they are even reluctant to seek the consult of a urologist regarding their erectile dysfunction, which may take the form of premature ejaculation or the inability to achieve and maintain a good quality erection. The possible causes of erectile dysfunction are multiple, which may include an impaired penile blood or nerve supply, low testosterone, performance anxiety, side effects of medications or undiagnosed/ poorly controlled diabetes and/ or high blood pressure. You can always rise again. The first step in recovering erectile function is seeking the comprehensive, compassionate and confidential consult of a urologist.

Men’s Health Awareness Month focuses on many vital health topics including the management of erectile dysfunction but also includes all major topics

related to the good health of Bahamian men.

These topics include any urinary issues, male infertility, kidney stones, chronic pelvic pain, circumcision, vasectomies, blood in the urine, cancers of the prostate, kidneys, bladder and penis, hypertension, heart disease and diabetes mellitus.

2. As a urologist, what are the most pressing issues Bahamian man are facing concerning their health?

Benign prostate hyperplasia The other prostate problem, non-cancerous benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is the enlargement of the prostate that almost every Bahamian man will face if he is blessed with advanced age.

BPH can cause symptoms such as a weak urinary stream, frequent day and nighttime urination, urinary urgency, incomplete bladder emptying, recurrent urinary tract infections and even urinary incontinence/leak.

Far too many Bahamian endure a poor night sleep because of frequent urination and they have their urinary problems control their lives and rob them often of their happiness. BPH can be managed very successfully with medications or minimally invasive urological procedures. Bahamian taxi drivers should not have to suffer the indignity of driving around with a container in which they urinate because they will never make it to even pulling over to the side of the road to urinate.

Bahamian teachers should not be afraid to drink a glass of water because they can’t teach a class without having to frequently urinate. Bahamian men in general do not need to live their lives sleep deprived because they are waking up five times in the night to urinate. Bahamian men from every walk of life are suffering needlessly with urinary problems and they are unaware that they can regain control of their bladder and their happiness with the aid of a urologist.

Hypertension Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure, and it is known to be a silent killer, with no symptoms of uncontrolled blood pressure until often irreversible damage has already been done to various bodily organs.

Long standing hypertension could lead to erectile dysfunction, kidney failure, cardiac failure, stroke among multiple devastating health consequences. Sudden acute spikes in blood pressure

could also be fatal or lead to severe medical morbidities.

Many Bahamian men are at risk for developing high blood pressure because of poor lifestyle choices, an unhealthy diet, an inactive sedentary existence and obesity.

It is far too common an occurrence for Bahamian men to choose to not be compliant with prescribed high blood pressure medication. Proper control of hypertension could prevent serious negative health issues and lead to greater longevity.

Heart disease Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for Bahamian men. Heart disease is a broad medical term that includes the various cardiovascular disease conditions such as angina, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, congestive cardiac failure and cardiac arrhythmia.

Heart disease is truly a silent killer with few to no symptoms until the disease has advanced.

Many Bahamian men have risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Annual or bi-annual health physicals, compliance with prescribed medications, regular exercise, healthy well -balanced diet and not smoking nicotine products could all significantly reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease.

Erectile dysfunction is often an early warning sign of heart disease as 70 percent of men with erectile dysfunction have or will develop some element of heart disease.

Diabetes The Bahamas has one of the highest incidences of diabetes in not just the region but the world.

One in seven Bahamian men have diabetes or are prediabetic.

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Poorly controlled diabetes could potentially lead to devastating health consequences such as infected diabetic foot, diabetic retinopathy affected eyes, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, diabetic cystopathy leading to impaired ability to empty the bladder, amongst many other negative health consequences.

Diabetics have a four-times increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction and erectile dysfunction presents on average 15 years earlier in diabetics when compared to non-diabetics.

Annual health physicals are essential for men so that silent

Five tips for getting back to work Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.

We know that over the past several weeks we have had to get used to being under curfew and on lockdown, so being home more was an adjustment most of us had to make - whether you used the time in quarantine to jump-start your health, wellness and fitness journey, or you fell a victim to “COVID 15” weight gain because you spent your days snacking and watching TV or surfing the net.

We are entering this new phase

THE UROLOGY DOCTOR IS IN...

Dr Greggory Pinto

non communicable diseases can be detected early and managed effectively. Bahamian men should be screened for type 2 diabetes starting at age 40 years old, and even at an earlier age if there is a family history of diabetes, a history of hypertension, obesity or a history of high cholesterol.

Screening for colorectal cancer should happen in all men 45 years old and older. Bahamian men need to realise that they may unknowingly suffer silently with no symptoms from common health disorders such as prostate cancer, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and colorectal cancer.

If you have not had an annual physical in the past one year then please do so as having annual physicals and taking appropriate health care actions, may potentially add years to your life and improve the quality of health for the years that you do live.

3. What Issues are Bahamian men afraid to talk about most? Why do you think this fear exists?

Bahamian men are definitely reluctant to speak about erectile dysfunction because they often feel that they are a failure and less than a man when faced with erectile dysfunction. Almost every man faces erectile dysfunction is his lifetime and the real tragedy is suffering needlessly in silence when you are not alone and with the aid of a urologist, you will always rise again.

Bahamian men are often afraid to talk about urinary issues such as a weak urinary stream or urinary incontinence/leak or frequent nighttime urination because they

ETHAN QUANT

HEALTH COACH

SMOOTHIES are a great way to get your daily recommend intake of fruit and vegetables. that requires us to get up and get back to the “new normal”. As we all slowly return to work there are a couple of tips that I would like to share with you to help you get on track or stay on track with your health, wellness and fitness goals

1. Always have your water bottle near you at work • Invest in an attractive reusable water bottle and a cool coaster to rest it on. That way, you will be more inclined to have a permanent spot for that water bottle

and coaster on your desk. Not only will it be functional, it will be pleasing to the eye as well. Take sips of water from your bottle frequently throughout the day, and soon staying hydrated will become a mindless habit.

2. Start a fruit or vegetable of the week in your office.

• This is a fun way to introduce a variety of fruits and vegetables into you and your colleagues’ diets. You can agree on a fruit or vegetable of the week, and

everyone must eat that fruit or vegetable at least once, twice, or three times that week at work.

You can modify the rule however you like and write it on a white board every week.

3. Keep “brain food” around you rather than processed snacks.

These are amazing snack options will fuel your brain so that you can function better at work: • Dark chocolate – Great news for all you chocolate lovers: dark chocolate contains cacao, which is full of flavonoid antioxidants to promote brain health • Berries – Berries are also full of flavonoid antioxidants like anthocyanin, caffeic acid, catechin, and quercetin to help boost your brain health • Nuts and seeds – These are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and

have a great fear that these urinary problems are prostate cancer related. The reality is the statistically speaking, benign prostate cancer is far more prevalent than prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer should also not be feared because early diagnosis can lead to an almost 100 percent cure rate.

4. Are older men more proactive about their health when compared to younger men?

I find that Bahamian men of all ages are very reluctant to seek management for any health issues, however, with knowledge comes greater understanding and an improved willingness to seek help.

For example, waking up to urinate several times a night is not an inevitable part of getting older and a poor quality erection that is difficult to maintain is also not an inevitable part of being middleaged or older.

At least 20 percent of men younger than 30 years old have faced erectile problems. Prostate cancer is a very curable cancer that has an excellent cure rate and there are many curative treatments available. Bahamian women often pressure the men in their lives to seek medical assistance. Bahamian men need to take a greater responsibility in maintaining a healthy, long life.

A little knowledge may very well save your life or the life of someone you love. Bahamian men are suffering in silence and despair with dozens of urological ailments that can be treated.

Improve your quality of life and add years to your life.

You can always rise again if you have erectile dysfunction.

You can always regain control of your bladder and your happiness instead of continuing to have urinary issues negatively control your life.

• Dr Greggory Pinto is a board certified Bahamian urologist and laparoscopic surgeon. He has trained in Germany, South Africa and France, and is a member of the European Association of Urology. He can be contacted at The Surgical Suite, Centreville Medical Centre, #68 Collins Avenue/Sixth Terrace; telephone: 326-1929. Please note that after July 1, Dr Pinto will no longer by at The Surgical Suite. Further details will follow. antioxidant vitamin E, which are both great for brain function

4. Make a smoothie every day If you don’t enjoy eating vegetables, making smoothies is a deliciously simple way to introduce them into your diet. Just take a handful or leafy greens such a spinach or kale, and blend them with your favourite fruits and some almond milk. You will have the benefit of all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants from the fruits and vegetables, while actually enjoying the taste of it!

5. Swap your coffee for a cup of green tea While drinking coffee can give you a much needed boost, its high caffeine content can lead to undesirable effects such as anxiety and insomnia. Green tea is a great alternative, as it also contains caffeine, but in lower doses. Plus, green tea is packed with antioxidants, which help promote brain health and even lower your risk of cancer. Green tea has also been shown to increase fat burning and help boost metabolism.

Remember, a healthy and happy employee is a productive employee. If you would like help navigating this or any part of your health, wellness and fitness journey, please feel free to reach out to me directly.

• Health coach Ethan Quant, of Elite Wellness Solutions, has succeeded in his weight loss journey and now wants to share his methods with the Bahamas in an effort to foster a culture of wellness and conquer the obesity epidemic.

PAGE 10, Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Keeping our perspective and priorities

THE TRIBUNE

Life lines

your shoes and getting sick is the same as getting hit by lightning twice a day. I’ve been working against viruses for 20 years, drip infections don’t spread like this. . You cannot be protected from the virus by drinking/eating vinegar, sumac, soda and ginger. . Wearing gloves is a bad idea, the virus can accumulate on the glove, it can easily be transmitted if you touch your face. It’s best to wash your hands.

15 16

. We will live with COVID. Cargo packages do not 19 for many, many months. cause infection. Wash your 1 5 Let’s not deny it or panic. Let’s hands, live your life as usual.

Victoria . COVID-19 is not a food not make life unnecessarily diffi6infection. This is associated Sarne cult. Let us learn to be happy and with drops of infection like flu. live with that fact. . The virus will not reduce There is no documented risk of its effect in the Summer. It’s COVID-19 being transmitted by walk around the gardens (keeping 2 tropical summer in Brazil, Africa ordering food. . Entering the sauna does not the distance) in the parks. and southern Asia, but the virus is . COVID-19 does not sepkill COVID-19 viruses that 7 spreading rapidly. arate race or religion, it is 11 have penetrated the cell. .

You cannot destroy . You can lose your smell passed on to all people.

3COVID-19 viruses that have 8with many allergies and viral . It is enough to use penetrated the cells by drinking infections. This is a non-specific 12 normal soap against too much water, you will just go to symptom for COVID-19.

COVID-19, not necessarily antithe toilet often. . Once we get home, we bacterial soap. The virus is not a . Washing hands and keeping 9 don’t need to change clothes bacteria anyway.

4 a distance of six feet is the and shower urgently. Purity is a . You don’t have to worry best method of protecting against virtue, not paranoia.

13 about your food orders. the virus. If you don’t have a . COVID-19 does not But if you want you can heat it up COVID-19 patient at home there microwave.

10hang in the air. This is a a bit in the. The is no need to disinfect the surfaces drip infection that requires close chance to bring in the house. contact. The air is clean, you can 14COVID-19 home with

The following is written by a psychologist: ‘‘Look, make someone who is 70 years old watch disaster news every day, giving the message: ‘It will come to you too, it will come to you too, it will come to you too’ and I claim this one man will die in a few months.

These programmes degrade our immune system through stress and anxiety. Don’t look at the medical professors who have turned into earthquake professors! I have shared with you in light of scientific development since the beginning of this process. I think there’s not much left to tell. I will not share anything more about this epidemic. Repeating the same things after this will only destroy our quality of life. The following illustrates my point: A trader meets the plague in his travels. He

The Heart of Your Home

The kitchen is often dubbed the ‘heart of the home’. It’s also where groceries enter the house, food is prepared and all sorts of items are stored. Now more than ever, people are at home and making cleaning a priority in their lives, so a new study wanted to find out where people should focus their efforts.

Currys PC World tested kitchens around Britain to find out where germs fester and what areas you should spend more time on during your cleaning regime.

Several areas of the kitchens were tested for particularly harmful pathogens including Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Faecal streptococci (FS), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), Bacillus cereus (B. cereus), Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

The sponge, sink and floor are the germiest areas in your kitchen It turns out, some of the items that are most vital to the cleaning process harbour the most germs.

In fact, 100 percent of sinks tested positive for P. aeruginosa and 25 percent for FS, whereas 88 percent of sponges had P. aeruginosa, 25 percent had FS and 12 percent had E. coli. Why is this? Bacteria can thrive on damp surfaces, and due to the nature and purpose

Love lockdown: the pandemic has put pressure on many relationships, but here’s how to tell if yours will survive

By Gery Karantzas Associate professor in Social Psychology/Relationship Science, Deakin University Life in lockdown has been tough on many relationships. But negotiating the transition back to “normal” as restrictions continue to lift could also be a challenge for couples.

So what are some of the key factors that affect how relationships fare during such times?

To answer this, I’m going to draw on an important model in relationship science called the vulnerability stress adaptation model.

Three important factors As its name suggests, the model proposes three broad factors that affect relationship outcomes: vulnerabilities, stressors and adaptions.

Vulnerabilities are any kind of factor that makes it harder for a person to maintain enduring and

of your kitchen sink and sponge, bacteria transferred from hands, plates and other objects can linger in the moisture. Properly drying cloths and surfaces can reduce bacterial populations.

• The ‘five-second rule’ is a lie • 100 percent of floors tested had traces of aeruginosa and 12 percent of FS. • Sinks had a total concentration of 24,000 P. aeruginosa and 3,280 of FS. • The average tea towel is only cleaned every two-and-a-half weeks, the sink every 25 days and the sponge every 15 days.

The average floor is only cleaned every five weeks.

• 37 percent of Brits do not clean their oven handle.

Kitchens are cleaner than expected. In fact, there were no traces of Salmonella found in any of the kitchens tested. Lab technician at the University of Lincoln Dr Jonathan Hughes said: “As damp environments

satisfying relationships. Vulnerabilities can include mental health issues, personality traits (such as neuroticism), past bad relationships, addiction, and the like.

Stressors are challenging life events and experiences external to the relationship, but which put a strain on maintaining a lasting and satisfying bond. These can include financial hardship, work stress, and difficult relationships with extended family or friends.

Adaptations reflect the skills and capabilities couples possess to effectively deal with and adapt to challenging circumstances. Adaptations can include a couple’s sense of fun or humour, constructive ways of handling conflict and solving problems, and supporting one another.

Stressors and vulnerabilities increase negative relationship behaviours (such as criticism and insensitivity), and in turn increase negative relationship outcomes (dissatisfaction and relationship breakdown).

On the other hand, adaptations buffer the effects of stress and reduce the risk of relationship dissatisfaction and breakdown.

Framing this model around COVID-19 The social distancing rules enforced during the pandemic have seen couples spending long periods of time together, often in close quarters.

Accounts from across the world show us not all couples have adjusted well. China reported an increase in the number of married couples filing for divorce. Worryingly, incidents of domestic abuse may also have increased.

Lengthy periods of close contact may have acted as a stressor which intensified negative relationship

provide excellent conditions for bacterial growth, you should ring out and dry cloths, towels and sponges between uses. You should also ensure that you regularly disinfect and wash reusable cloths or towels, or switch to new ones if using disposable cloths or sponges.”

P. aeruginosa is the king of the castle The study revealed that the pathogen P. aeruginosa is definitely the head of the household, as the study found traces of it on 100 percent of sinks and floors, and 88 percent of sponges, countertops and fridge shelves. This pathogen is found in soil and vegetation, and enters your kitchen on unwashed vegetables. It is known to cause symptoms such as skin irritation, abbesses and wounds.

In second place for the most prevalent germ in the kitchen is Faecal streptococci (FS). This

behaviours and dissatisfaction, particularly for people with existing personal vulnerabilities.

The changes associated with social distancing rules, such as working from home and supervising home schooling, are additional stressors. These too are likely to have exacerbated personal vulnerabilities and destructive relationship behaviours for some couples.

Some vulnerable couples may be able to keep their relationship stable, provided that the stress of social isolation and other COVID19-related stressors remain low, or that supports are in place to minimise stress.

However, these same couples may encounter problems if stressors increase (for example, one partner suddenly loses their job) or supports are removed (such as from friends or family).

Similarly, high-functioning couples may cope well with the challenges of social restriction and other COVID-19 hardships. But, if the stressors become too great, they’re likely to experience declines in relationship satisfaction.

What’s the ideal?

People in loving and supportive relationships are likely to cope

looks at the Plague alarmed and asks: ‘Where are you going?’ The plague responds, ‘To Baghdad.’

‘How many people will you kill?’ asks the trader. ‘Not many, only 5,000 people’, says the Plague.

Time passes and the trader meets the Plague again. However, he had heard that 60,000 people died in Baghdad because of the Plague.

‘You told me you were going to kill 5,000 people. Nevertheless, you have slaughtered 60,000 lives,’ says the angry trader. The Plague is very calm and confident: ‘I killed 5,000 people. The others died of fear.’ Protect your mental health. Don’t forget, the unstable psyche breaks the immune system of the body.”

Life goes on with or without us and often it is all too short, so don’t let anxiety rule your world.

There’s always a choice. Choose wisely; choose positively, adjust and adapt.

• Victoria Sarne is an entrepreneur and writer. She headed a team to establish a shelter for abused women and children in Canada and was its first chairwoman. You can reach her at victoria.conversations@gmail. com, visit lifelineswritingservice. com, or call 467-1178.

pathogen was found on 62 percent of the items we swabbed, including the sponge, sink, floor, countertop and the oven handle.

It is found in the intestines of humans and animals, and detecting it in our test means there is a strong indication of faecal matter contamination. Such contamination can lead to symptoms of food poisoning such as, vomiting, diarrhoea and nausea.

Your kitchen is cleaner than you think: British kitchens have rid themselves of B. cereus You, your kitchen and your home are teeming with bacteria.

Most of them are harmless, and some of them play an important role in promoting and mainlining good levels of health. However, some of them in high quantities can lead to particularly unpleasant symptoms, including severe food poisoning.

Dr Hughes advises: “The surface levels of bacteria in a normal kitchen are usually well below

the levels required for infection of healthy individuals and so are unlikely to lead to illness – unless coupled with a pre-existing health complaint or if the person infected is immunocompromised.”

There was no detection of Salmonella, cereus or Staphylococcus aureus in any of the kitchens tested.

Your oven handle is the cleanest area in the kitchen, with 50 percent returning negative results of all pathogens tested. Among the remaining 50 percent, all tested positive for traces of aeruginosa and 12 percent tested positive for FS.

Professional cleaners can help to banish the bacteria in your kitchen If you want to get rid of the bacteria in your house, the easiest way to keep you and your family safe is to have a thorough cleaning routine. For example, the average fridge is only cleaned every four months and two weeks, which could be why an astonishing 88 percent of fridges had detections of P. aeruginosa. Similarly, the average sink is cleaned every 25 days, which may be why it ranked second germiest place in the kitchen.

Dr Hughes recommends that, “following basic kitchen hygiene rules coupled with correct food preparation methods will reduce the risk of food poisoning. These rules can be grouped into four Cs: cleaning, cooking, chilling and cross-contamination.”

Cleaners are key: the kitchen that had the least amount of bacterial detections (five detections across eight areas, out of a maximum of 48) employed a cleaner to work regularly. Retired couples that cleaned daily also had five detections of bacteria across eight areas.

more effectively with the enforcement and relaxation of social distancing guidelines (and other challenges, whether related to the pandemic or not).

These are typically couples who constructively deal with conflict by working together towards solving issues, take on each others’ perspectives, and respond sensitively when the other is feeling stressed.

That’s not to say these couples never argue and don’t sometimes get frustrated with one another. But their adaptive ways of communicating and supporting each other mean these couples are likely to fare better.

There’s help if you need it Some couples may benefit from relationship education programs that teach communication skills and how to manage conflict constructively.

For couples that require more intensive support, couple therapy can be effective. These options are available online.

As well as working on the relationship itself, the alleviation of stressors can help a relationship.

Studies have found that for couples and families experiencing stressors such as economic hardship

or housing instability, providing them with financial aid, jobseeker programs and affordable housing can improve relationship satisfaction and reduce family breakdown to a similar extent as relationship education or counselling.

The easing of social distancing restrictions may also significantly reduce stress in some couples, shrinking “relationship cracks” that emerged during lockdown.

You may need to address these cracks if they resurface, but reductions in coronavirus-related stressors may well see transient relationship problems disappear.

A return to normal won’t be the answer for all relationships Unfortunately, for some couples, the easing of restrictions may intensify relationship conflicts and dissatisfaction.

For example, if one person has health anxieties and the other is highly impulsive, they may hold very different attitudes on how to navigate situations such as social gatherings.

These differences are likely to create conflict that may increase dissatisfaction and relationship difficulties, particularly if both members of the couple typically respond to conflict in destructive ways.

So the easing of social restrictions may not have the same outcome for all. It depends in part on a couple’s existing vulnerabilities and their way of handling conflict and supporting one another.

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

THE TRIBUNE

Tuesday, June 16, 2020, PAGE 11

THE WEATHER REPORT

5-Day Forecast

TODAY

ORLANDO

High: 89° F/32° C Low: 69° F/21° C

TAMPA

TONIGHT

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

A shower and thun‑ derstorm around

Overcast with a t‑storm or two

Cloudy with a shower or t‑storm

Clouds and sun; a passing shower

Variably cloudy; a passing shower

Clouds and sunshine

High: 85°

Low: 75°

High: 85° Low: 77°

High: 85° Low: 77°

High: 87° Low: 77°

High: 87° Low: 77°

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

AccuWeather RealFeel

98° F

85° F

94°-83° F

93°-83° F

96°-84° F

98°-85° F

High: 91° F/33° C Low: 74° F/23° C

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

N

almanac

E

W

ABACO

S

N

High: 83° F/28° C Low: 77° F/25° C

6‑12 knots

S

WEST PALM BEACH High: 88° F/31° C Low: 73° F/23° C

4‑8 knots

FT. LAUDERDALE E

W

FREEPORT

High: 88° F/31° C Low: 77° F/25° C

N

S

E

W

High: 86° F/30° C Low: 76° F/24° C

MIAMI

High: 87° F/31° C Low: 75° F/24° C

6‑12 knots

Statistics are for Nassau through 2 p.m. yesterday Temperature High ................................................... 86° F/30° C Low .................................................... 71° F/22° C Normal high ....................................... 87° F/31° C Normal low ........................................ 74° F/23° C Last year’s high ................................. 82° F/28° C Last year’s low ................................... 72° F/22° C Precipitation As of 2 p.m. yesterday ................................. 0.75” Year to date ............................................... 23.26” Normal year to date ................................... 11.20”

ELEUTHERA

NASSAU

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 75° F/24° C

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2020

High: 84° F/29° C Low: 79° F/26° C

N

KEY WEST

High: 87° F/31° C Low: 79° F/26° C

tiDes For nassau High Today

E

W

4‑8 knots

S

4‑8 knots

Low

Ht.(ft.)

2.2 2.6

11:07 a.m. 0.3 11:53 p.m. 0.6

Wednesday 5:39 a.m.

6:14 p.m.

2.2 2.7

11:50 a.m. 0.2 ‑‑‑‑‑ ‑‑‑‑‑

Thursday

6:24 a.m.

6:56 p.m.

2.2 2.9

12:40 a.m. 0.4 12:31 p.m. 0.1

Friday

7:08 a.m.

7:38 p.m.

2.2 3.0

1:24 a.m.

1:12 p.m.

0.3 0.0

Saturday

7:51 a.m.

8:19 p.m.

2.3 3.1

2:07 a.m.

1:53 p.m.

0.2 0.0

Sunday

8:34 a.m.

9:00 p.m.

2.3 3.2

2:49 a.m. 0.1 2:34 p.m. ‑0.1

Monday

9:17 a.m.

9:43 p.m.

2.4 3.2

3:31 a.m. 0.1 3:17 p.m. ‑0.1

sun anD moon Sunrise Sunset

6:20 a.m.

8:01 p.m.

Moonrise Moonset

3:11 a.m.

4:02 p.m.

New

First

Full

Last

Jun. 21

Jun. 28

Jul. 5

Jul. 12

ANDROS

SAN SALVADOR

GREAT EXUMA

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 80° F/27° C

High: 86° F/30° C Low: 80° F/27° C

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High: 85° F/29° C Low: 79° F/26° C

E

W S

LONG ISLAND

tracking map

High: 86° F/30° C Low: 81° F/27° C

L

Ht.(ft.)

4:52 a.m.

5:31 p.m.

High: 85° F/29° C Low: 80° F/27° C

N

S

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

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

CAT ISLAND

E

W

uV inDex toDay

4‑8 knots

MAYAGUANA High: 87° F/31° C Low: 81° F/27° C

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

CROOKED ISLAND / ACKLINS RAGGED ISLAND High: 85° F/29° C Low: 81° F/27° C

High: 86° F/30° C Low: 82° F/28° C

GREAT INAGUA High: 88° F/31° C Low: 82° F/28° C

N

E

W

E

W

N

S

S

6‑12 knots

7‑14 knots

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

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

WINDS W at 4‑8 Knots ENE at 4‑8 Knots W at 4‑8 Knots E at 4‑8 Knots SE at 4‑8 Knots E at 6‑12 Knots E at 7‑14 Knots ESE at 7‑14 Knots S at 4‑8 Knots ESE at 6‑12 Knots NNW at 6‑12 Knots ENE at 6‑12 Knots SE at 4‑8 Knots ESE at 6‑12 Knots E at 7‑14 Knots E at 7‑14 Knots E at 6‑12 Knots E at 7‑14 Knots ESE at 7‑14 Knots ESE at 7‑14 Knots SW at 4‑8 Knots E at 4‑8 Knots E at 6‑12 Knots E at 7‑14 Knots SE at 4‑8 Knots ESE at 6‑12 Knots

WAVES 1‑3 Feet 2‑4 Feet 0‑1 Feet 0‑1 Feet 1‑3 Feet 1‑3 Feet 2‑4 Feet 3‑5 Feet 1‑3 Feet 2‑4 Feet 1‑2 Feet 1‑3 Feet 0‑1 Feet 1‑2 Feet 2‑4 Feet 2‑4 Feet 1‑2 Feet 1‑3 Feet 2‑4 Feet 3‑5 Feet 1‑2 Feet 0‑1 Feet 1‑3 Feet 1‑3 Feet 1‑2 Feet 1‑3 Feet

To advertise ALL your LEGAL NOTICES, call The Tribune’s Sales Department

502-2394

VISIBILITY 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 5 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 4 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 5 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles

WATER TEMPS. 81° F 82° F 85° F 86° F 82° F 82° F 83° F 83° F 82° F 82° F 84° F 85° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 84° F 83° F 83° F 82° F 83° F 84° F 84° F 82° F 82° F

SECTION B

TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2020

Daddy’s girls Women share advice from their beloved fathers

By JEFFARAH GIBSON | Tribune Features Writer | jgibson@tribunemedia.net

I

t’s only a few more days to go until Father’s Day this Sunday and Bahamians are busy thinking of ways to honour and celebrate their dads. Many are reflecting on the impact their fathers and father figures have had on their lives.

In light of the special day, we asked several women to recall the best advice given to them by their fathers that not only influenced their lives, but that they intend to pass on to others.

When it comes to matters of the heart, falling in love and relationships, Chantonique Minnis said her father has never hesitated in voicing his opinions.

“My dad is a firm believer in the old school version of love. He still runs ahead to open the door, pulls out chairs, waits until you sit before he sits, and when you stand he does the same. His morals and standards are portrayed in his daily interactions with everyone he meets and it’s admirable. My father has always been my best friend; we’ve created such a free line of communication that there is no judgement when I express the things that may worry me or

the battles that I face daily,” she told Tribune Woman.

“The best advice my dad has ever given to me before I began to date is that I should take as much time as I needed to invest in myself...to strengthen my morals and stand by them, tighten my standards and to not lose them, and I would find that one man that was created just to suit me. Just as he’s stood by my side to give me the best advice possible, he’s also been there to wipe my tears when I don’t take heed, reminding me of the queen that I am and the lessons that I’ve learned through my pain. My father is no ordinary man and I can sit and write for hours about the gift he’s been to my siblings and I, but my dad also has had a huge impact on society at large. Young men and women turn to him for counsel and he is always there with an on-time word of encouragement.”

For Romanique Johnson, her father is her go-to person.

“The piece of advice my father gave me was to always put God first in everything that I do. No matter if I feel discouraged, disappointed, lose hope or sight in my destiny. Don’t never give up

“My father is my first love; he taught me how a man is supposed to treat me.”

CHANTONIQUE Minnis and her father Anton Minnis

ROMANIQUE Johnson and her father Roman Johnson

because God is always by my side.

In anything you do, continue to trust God because He knows what He is doing,” she said.

“There are so many words I can use to describe my father, but here a few are: very humble, God-fearing, kind, patient, loving, compassionate. My father is my first love; he taught me how a man is supposed to treat me. He also told me to never settle for less or devalue yourself for someone. Always believe in yourself no matter what,” she said.

While other women will be giving their fathers special gifts,

Janice said she will spend her time looking at old photos and reflecting on her father who passed away 10 years ago. She said his influence on her life has been immense, and of all things she learned from him, the most importance was to never allow herself to be taken advantage of.

“My dad was a confident man who was extremely kind-hearted.

But that kindness was not to be taken advantage of. So he had this thing he would always say, ‘‘You are not going to p*** on me and call it rain,’ and I always wondered what that meant. Then

I asked him what does that mean and he told it is a just a very controversial way of saying do not allow anyone to make a fool out of you, even the ones you love,” she said.

Sophie Knowles said of her father: “One of the best lessons I learned from my Dad was how to be silent and listen to others, rather than rashly acting or speaking any time you felt the urge. As a parent myself now, I understand how important it is to be a listener; to understand how to help a child navigate issues for sure, but to realise how important it is to help them recognise their own feelings regarding an issue before sharing your own.”

Hurricane survivor shares her family’s harrowing experience in new book

BY ALESHA CADET | Tribune Features Reporter | acadet@tribunemedia.net

After living through the ordeal that was Hurricane Dorian last September, Keldra Pinder decided to take a break from her job as an educator as she began having difficulties balancing her career and family responsibilities after losing her home and almost losing her life in the monster storm.

The harrowing experience inspired her to tell her family’s story, as well as the stories of others who survived Dorian, and even the stories of those who died, in her first book, “The Water Has Come.”

“As we witnessed the events of the hurricane from the roof of our home that was under water, I knew I had to do something lifechanging if we made it out alive.

And so the inspiration to become an author was birthed. ‘The Water Has Come’ is suitable for all readers, particularly older children, teenagers, adults and those young at heart,” said the wife and mother of four.

Keldra hopes her book will allow readers to learn about the culture and tenacity of the Bahamian people.

‘The Water Has Come’ describes the preparation before the storm, the destruction and carnage during the storm, and the passing and aftermath of the storm. The author hopes this memoir instils in people that storms are a part of life “and we weather them with faith to become stronger than we were before.”

“My motivation also came from a deep desire to use our experience in Hurricane Dorian to heighten awareness of the seriousness of natural disasters and show why they are not to be taken lightly when warnings are issued.

But even more importantly, I wanted to use Hurricane Dorian

as a platform to get the message out that we all go through storms in life, but God is only using these tests to build our faith in Him. He is merciful and will see us through the various storms - health issues, relationship problems, financial issues, and more in life,” said Keldra.

Writing the book also presented a form of catharsis for her, as she was struggling to process everything that had taken place during the hurricane. Writing helped her to put life in perspective again.

The new author said she considered several titles for the book, but for some reason “The Water Has Come” stuck.

“Perhaps the reason is that all we, the people on Grand Bahama, could think about during Hurricane Dorian was fact that the water was coming. Areas that never received an inch of water in a hurricane were experiencing upwards to five feet of flooding, forcing people out of their homes in neck-high water. There was great fear of how far and how high the water would go. There has never been a storm in the Bahamas, or the world for that matter, which has brought that amount of ocean inland, covering 80 percent of the land mass,” said Keldra.

At the end of the book, Keldra outlines the eight main things she took away from the Hurricane Dorian experience. She said these specific points are aimed at encouraging readers to live a life of faith and service to others, which she said God will eternally honour one day.

“He will not be concerned with the beauty of our homes, our many degrees or how much money we have accumulated in the bank. Yes, all of these things are important but they are second to seeking first the kingdom of

EDUCATOR and author Keldra Pinder experienced an emotional catharsis through writing “The Water Has Come”.

God and His righteousness. God expects us to take care of each other and live in reverence to Him. There are consequences for our disobedience, as we have witnessed in this day and time,” said Keldra.

Having the chance to read the book several times since its release, Keldra said she is very proud of the finished product.

She said ‘The Water Has Come’ tells the story how she intended it to be told. It was her intention to host a book launch in April, however, due to the COVID-19

pandemic, it had to be postponed.

She is hoping to host a small gathering in Freeport soon, as well as a book signing in Nassau during the Summer.

“I have participated in a virtual book club meeting in which ‘The Water Has Come’ was the featured book. It was a great feeling to interact with the dynamic group of ladies from Freeport’s AKA Sorority chapter. The book has been well received by them and many others in the Bahamas, Canada and the US,” she said.

“There were many people highly anticipating ‘The Water Has Come’. The day my book was released, before I had hard copies available on the island, several people purchased and read the book online within the same day. I was nervous about getting feedback and how it would be received, but I got rave reviews,” she said. “There have been readers who have messaged me in the wee hours of the morning just to tell me they couldn’t put the book down and they had just finished reading it. Others have called crying to congratulate me on a job well done. Many have thanked me for telling our stories and allowing others to live the Dorian experience with us, as they only had an idea of what it was like but now they know how it feels to be in the rafters with my family or on their rooftop or in the pine yard.”

She added: “I poured my heart and soul into the writing, so I was very happy that (readers) were able to feel what my fellow survivors and I felt as we went through such life-changing experiences.”

‘The Water Has Come’ is available for delivery in Nassau by contacting WhatsApp at 4413828, and in Freeport at 806-1835 or 802-1613. It is also available in book stores in Freeport, and will soon be in Nassau as well.